Metrosource NY - APR/MAY 2021 by Metrosource

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®

This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

(bik-TAR-vee)

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including:

BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including:  Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.  Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY.  Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY.  Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.  Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.  The most common side effects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%).

 Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. If you

have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months.

ABOUT BIKTARVY BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS. Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains:  dofetilide  rifampin  any other medicines to treat HIV-1

BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY Tell your healthcare provider if you:

These are not all the possible side effects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY.

 Have or have had any kidney or liver problems,

including hepatitis infection.  Have any other health problems.  Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY.  Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY.

HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:  Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-

counter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.

 BIKTARVY and other medicines may affect each other.

Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines.

Get HIV support by downloading a free app at

MyDailyCharge.com

GET MORE INFORMATION  This is only a brief summary of important information

about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more.

 Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5  If you need help paying for your medicine,

visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, DAILY CHARGE, the DAILY CHARGE Logo, KEEP CREATING, LOVE WHAT’S INSIDE, GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. Version date: February 2020 © 2020 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. BVYC0197 03/20

CHAD LIVING WITH HIV SINCE 2018 REAL BIKTARVY PATIENT

KEEP CREATING.

Because HIV doesn’t change who you are.

BIKTARVY® is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS.

Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you. See Chad’s story at BIKTARVY.com. Featured patient compensated by Gilead.

Please see Important Facts about BIKTARVY, including important warnings, on the previous page and visit BIKTARVY.com.

SPRING

VIEWS

EDITOR’S LETTER

– THE SEASON OF NEW BEGINNINGS WHAT MOST OF US CALL SPRING RELIES ON THE

Today, more than one billion people in 192 countries

ASTRONOMICAL DEFINITION OF THE WORD,

now participate in Earth Day activities, making it the

relying on equinoxes and solstices to define it. Spring

largest civic observance in the world. Earth Day contin-

is generally considered the period between the vernal

ues to be a momentous and unifying day each and every

equinox and the summer solstice. According to the

year, with a myriad of ways to participate, whether it be

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

contributing to those large-scale global initiatives, or

(NOAA), spring is one of two times when the Earth’s

taking smaller everyday steps toward a more environ-

axis is not pointed toward or away from the sun and

mentally conscious life. Fighting for a clean environment

when day and night are almost equal. Now we can start

continues with increasing urgency, as the ravages of cli-

enjoying those longer nights and warmer temperatures.

mate change become more and more apparent every

This spring, while being marked by the standard

day. This Earth Day is anticipated to be a historic year, in

flowers blooming and animals pro-creating, it is also

that the Biden Administration announced it will convene

marked by getting vaccinated for COVID-19, repre-

a global climate summit.

senting a profound new beginning and new hope for

With the thought of new beginnings, Earth Day,

the future. The collective hope for a future of in-person

and wanderlust in our mind, this issue brings you some

gatherings, travel, and adventures with our family and

related features, including our 2021 Travel Bucket List

friends. While the standard health practices have not

with eight international destinations to check out in

gone away, even if vaccinated, this is a time to refresh

your future travel plans. ‘What’s in Your Dopp Kit’ will

your spirit and revive your body. First things, first – get

help you grab the right travel-sized skin care essentials

out and get exercising. Try a walk to the farmer’s market,

for your trip. And our feature on Bye Bye Plastic Foun-

a jog in the sun, a bike ride; soak in nature at its finest –

dation, highlights one organization that is seeking to

the new flowers, the singing birds – and some Vitamin

help shape the message of restoring our earth through

D along the way. (Don’t forget the sunscreen.) Recon-

nightlife spaces and the festival culture.

nect with your family and friends and appreciate the

In our cover feature, Nico Santos talks about Asian

little things. George Orwell once said,“The point is that

representation and diversity in the entertainment indus-

the pleasures of spring are available to everybody, and

try. In today’s highly charged atmosphere resulting in

cost nothing.”

increased hate against Asian Americans, it becomes

Also, each spring welcomes Earth Day (April 22nd),

more important than ever to increase the representa-

which began in 1970 signaling public consciousness

tion dialog, and Nico is a positive role model, not only

about the state of our planet. Earth Day 1970 achieved

for the LGBTQ community, but for the POC community,

a rare political alignment, enlisting support from Repub-

furthering the dialog to stop Asian hate.

licans and Democrats, rich and poor, urban dwellers and

Before the summer solstice, which will be here

farmers, business, and labor leaders. By the end of 1970,

before you know it, enjoy this season of spring and all

the first Earth Day led to the creation of the United States

that it has to offer. Renew your voice and speak out

Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of

against violence and hate. Embrace the hope of the

other first of their kind environmental laws, including

future. Reconnect with family and friends. Be charitable.

the National Environmental Education Act, the Occu-

Embody the season of new beginnings.

pational Safety and Health Act, and the Clean Air Act.

PUBLISHER Bent Share Entertainment, LLC EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Michael Westman COPY EDITOR James Delyea CREATIVE DIRECTOR Cesar A Reyes MARKETING DIRECTOR Christopher Jackson FEATURE WRITER Alexander Rodriguez CONTRIBUTING WRITERS James Patrick

Jeffrey James Keyes Megan Venzin Michael Westman Steve Gottfried

NATIONAL DISPLAY ADVERTISING

Rivendell Media 212.242.6863 sales@rivendellmedia.com

Los Angeles 6475 E. Pacific Coast Hwy., #438 Long Beach, CA 90803 New York 511 Avenue of the Americas, #901 New York, NY 10011 800.818.0480 METROSOURCE.COM Subscriptions: One year (6 issues): $24.95; 12 issues: $39.95. Reproduction of any article, listing or advertisement without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The people, businesses and organizations appearing in Metrosource are supportive of the gay community. Mention of any person, business or organization is not a reflection of their sexual orientation. ©2021 Bent Share Entertainment, LLC. Advertisers in Metrosource acknowledge that they do business in the spirit of cooperation, fairness and service, maintaining a high level of integrity and responsibility. Providers of products or services are fully and solely responsible for same as advertised. Metrosource assumes no responsibility or liability for improper or negligent business practices by advertisers. The appearance of any person, model, business or organization in this publication, by name, advertisement or photograph is not an indication of sexual orientation. Advertisers and their agencies assume all responsibility and legal liability for the content of their advertisements in Metrosource. Publisher assumes no liability for safe-keeping or return of unsolicited art, manuscripts or other materials. Metrosource reserves the right to edit all material for clarity, length and content. All contents are copyright Bent Share Entertainment, LLC. All rights reserved. Content may only be reproduced with written permission from Bent Share Entertainment, LLC. Metrosource assumes no liability for any claims or representations contained anywhere in this magazine and reserve the right to cancel or refuse advertising at publisher’s discretion.

Two years later Congress passed the Clean Water Act. A year after that, Congress passed the Endangered Species Act. These laws have protected millions of men, women and children from disease and death and have protected hundreds of species from extinction.

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

@metrosource @MetrosourceMagazine @metrosourcemag

METROSOURCE.COM

April/May 2021 | VOLUME 32, NO. 2

CONTENTS

THIS PAGE: NICO SANTOS PHOTO BY IRVIN RIVERA •PHOTO COURTESY OF SANDRA BERNHARD • BLOND:ISH BYE BYE PLASTIC PHOTO BY SIAN KAAN • LESLIE MARGHERITA PHOTO BY LEV RADIN/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

18 18 SANDRA BERNHARD STRIKING ONE LAST POSE

24 NICO SANTOS LIVING ON CLOUD 9

29 RESTORE OUR EARTH BYE BYE PLASTIC FOUNDATION AIMS TO ELIMINATE SINGLE-USE ITEMS IN THE DJ BOOTH AND BEYOND

32 LESLI MARGHERITA KNOWS THE SUREFIRE WAY

29 COVER: Nico Santos Photographer: Irvin Rivera www.graphicsmetropolis.com IG: @graphicsmetropolis Twitter: @graphicsmetro

TO COMBAT SOCIAL MEDIA HATERS

32 METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

DEPARTMENTS

April/May 2021 | VOLUME 32, NO. 2

14 45

CULTURE

7 THE SCOPE

BODY 40 HEALTH

Dodie is back with Build A Problem and the single “Hate Myself”

14 FOOD & WINE Max Miller Has Extravagant Food for Any Time with Tasting History

Travel Skin Care Grab those Travel-Sized Skin Care Items

TRAVEL 46 The 2021 Travel Bucket List Eight International Destinations We’ll be Ready to Check Out

45 FINANCE Purchasing a Vacation Home Got Cabin Fever? Buy a Cabin

VIEWS

4 EDITOR’S LETTER

Spring – The Season

of New Beginnings APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

THIS PAGE: MAX MILLER PHOTOS BY THE RIKER BROTHERS • GAY COUPLE PHOTO BY SHUTTERSTOCK.COM • CAPE TOWN PHOTO COURTESY OF SOUTH AFRICAN TOURISM

THESCOPE

CULTURE

THESCOPE

CURATED BY MICHAEL WESTMAN

LISTEN

DODIE

THE GEORGIA REMIX OF HER LATEST SINGLE “HATE MYSELF,” IS TAKEN FROM HER DEBUT ALBUM BUILD A PROBLEM WHICH IS SET TO BE RELEASED MAY

THIS PAGE: PHOTO BY PARRI THOMAS

7, 2021. Showcasing the critically acclaimed multi-instrumentalist,

singer-songwriter and producer’s rich wealth of production experience, Georgia’s sharply paced remix, packs injections of lightness and fun into dodie’s already melodic track. Listen now on Spotify. At just 25, dodie has already done a lot of living. Some of that has played out online as she made a name for herself as a singer and writer, amassing millions of fans with her disarmingly honest videos and affecting, intimate singing style. She has scored two top-ten EPs, headlined, and sold out, London’s Roundhouse, the Hollywood Palladium and New York’s Terminal 5. It’s hard to believe she has yet to release her debut album. dodie found herself with a bit of a problem because she’d already named her previous EP, 2019’s top 5 Human, and the songs she found herself writing for the album really added up to the same idea; the flawed, emotionally erratic, wondrously complex conundrum that is being alive - and Human was taken. But this line seemed to add up to a similar concept; the moments and actions in life that build within us all problems that we don’t even realize we have until we look back

and say,“Oh, that’s where that came from.” dodie, whose past is still infiltrating her present and her future, explores all of this and more on her musically ambitious and dreamily intimate record named - what else? - Build A Problem. She wrote most of the songs on the album over the past two years. “I think I was going through a crisis actually,” she says now. “I was very unsure of who I was, and I was trying to figure it out in music. So, I think it’s quite unstable of an album - but it’s definitely honest.” “I’d like people to come away from this album knowing what I can do,” she says. A single listen to Build A Problem shows she has matured into an exceptional musician, using ancient modes, writing complex string arrangements, and imbuing each song with a sense of charming intimacy. By her own admission, dodie may be a work in progress; problems have been built, mistakes have been made, but with Build A Problem, she has proven that she is an artist for the ages.

“Hate Myself” is available to stream and download now; Build A Problem is available to pre-order in CD, vinyl, deluxe CD, deluxe vinyl, and cassette formats. Visit https://us.dodie.co/. METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

THESCOPE CULTURE

ON FIRE: THE FIREFIGHTERS OF FRANCE BY FRED GOUDON

THE PAGES OF THIS BEAUTIFUL HARDCOVER BOOK HOLD A COLLECTION OF THE BEST PORTRAITS AND SMOKING SHOTS FROM THE WILDLY POPULAR FRENCH FIREFIGHTER CALENDARS, PERSONALLY SELECTED BY CREATOR FRED GOUDON. A sensual, sexy homage to firefighters, this

new volume spotlights the proud members of fire squads from all over France, who have discarded their helmets and gear to flash their best smiles and flex their muscles. Beautifully shot by photographer Fred Goudon, the candid images from the popular 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021 calendars offer readers the chance to fulfill their fantasies by discovering what these Gallic

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

hunks look like underneath it all. Smoldering black-andwhite and equally stunning color pictures uncover these everyday heroes in various state of undress, whether training and preparing for the call of duty or captured in gripping, intimate portraits. With their sculpted bodies on full display, this visual celebration of the masculine form, bravery, and spirited camaraderie is bound to raise the temperatures of photography aficionados everywhere.

Available at www.rizzolibookstore.com. $55.00

THIS PAGE: ON FIRE PHOTO BY FRED-GOUDON/RIZZOLI

READ

WATCH

THE HUMAN VOICE

A SHORT FILM BY PEDRO ALMODÓVAR THE HUMAN VOICE, PEDRO ALMODÓVAR’S FIRST ENGLISHLANGUAGE FILM, IS A 30-MINUTE SHORT STARRING TILDA SWINTON THAT OPENED IN THEATERS IN LIMITED RELEASE ACROSS THE

THIS PAGE: TILDA SWINTON IN THE HUMAN VOICE IMAGES COURTESY OF SONY PICTURES CLASSICS

COUNTRY IN MARCH. The Human Voice screened to acclaim at

the 2020 Venice, New York, and BFI London Film Festivals, and is on the short list for the Best Live Action Short Film category for the 93rd Oscars to be presented this April. The Human Voice follows Swinton, as a woman watching time pass, next to the suitcases of her ex-lover (who is supposed to come pick them up, but never arrives) and a restless dog who doesn’t understand that his master has abandoned him. Two living beings facing abandonment. During the three days of waiting, the woman only goes out to the street once, to buy an axe and a can of gasoline. Going through a variety of moods, from helplessness to despair, she makes herself up, dressing up as if going to a party, and considers throwing herself off the balcony, until her ex-lover calls on the phone, but she’s unconscious because she’s taken a combination of pills and cannot answer the call. The dog licks her face until she wakes up. After a cold shower, revived by a coffee as black as her state of mind, the telephone rings again and this time she can answer. Pedro Almodóvar explains,“The human voice is hers; we never hear the voice of her lover. At first, she pretends to act normal and calm, but she is always on the verge of exploding in the face of the man’s hypocrisy and meanness. The Human Voice is a moral lesson about desire, even though its protagonist is on the verge of the very same abyss. Risk is an essential part of the adventure of living and loving. Pain is very present in the monologue. As I said at first, it is about the disorientation and distress of two living beings who grieve their master.” The use of English was also an experiment for Almodóvar. “I am a director who is totally free when it comes to working, but this time, as I wasn’t doing it in a standard format, I felt freer than ever. Freeing myself of my own language, of the minimum length of 90 minutes, of having to be careful about not showing what is behind the set construction, etc., meant a real break for me. Despite the fact that it is spoken in English, that The Human Voice is my debut in that language, and that the shoot was absolutely idyllic, I’m not sure that I’m ready to tackle another shoot in English. What I am sure about is that I can direct Tilda Swinton in her native language. I think that this short film, inhabited from start to finish exclusively by her, shows her wide range of registers. For the crew, it was a gift to hear her talk and move through the set. Her intelligence and willing disposition made my work much easier. And in particular, in addition to her enormous talent, her blind faith in me. This is a feeling that all directors dream of and the mere fact of it being produced makes you grow.” METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

THESCOPE CULTURE

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

PAGES 10-11: IAMGES COURTESY OF MOMA DESIGN STORE

RELAX

THE NEWEST OUTDOOR PRODUCTS

PRODUCTS FROM THE MOMA DESIGN STORE TAKE IT OUTDOORS AND RELAX THIS SPRING AND SUMMER WITH THE NEWEST OUTDOOR PRODUCTS FROM THE MOMA DESIGN STORE.

The SS21 Collection includes a variety of products to ensure you can enjoy the best of the great outdoors. MoMA Design Store offers products that bring quality, creativity, and design innovation to everyday living. Here are a few of our outdoor favorites available at https://store.moma.org/.

SUN SHELTER POP-UP TENT ($68) Built for beach-time relaxing, picnicking and trip to the park, this tent offers SPF 50+ sun protection. Made from lightweight polyester, the tent has a zip-open window and is easy to set up and collapse. It includes eight metal stakes, tie-down cords and a zip-open window. A shoulder-strap carry bag makes it easy to transport. Open: 47”h x 86.5”w x 39.5”d Closed: 31.5” diam. x 1.5”

PADDLE BALL WOOD SET ($99) Take a break from your screens and indulge in a Mediterranean-style sport with this Paddle Ball Set. Perfect for play with your friends and family at the beach, park or your own backyard, the paddles are handcrafted from marine plywood in Xeraco, a Mediterranean coastal town in Spain. The paddles feature one-piece solid manufactured bodies and ergonomic wood handles, so they can be gripped firmly and easily for hours of play. The Paddle Ball Wood Set includes two paddles, two rubber balls (a hard one for faster play and a soft one for a more relaxed game) and a carrying bag.

MODERN INFLATABLE POOL ($100) When warm weather arrives and you need to cool off fast, pull out this pool, inflate, and make a splash. Made from non-toxic vinyl. This backyard pool is big enough to hold two adults or a few kids. Inflates easily with a hairdryer (cold air) or a foot pump (not included) and drains from the bottom. Stores away compactly in its matching vinyl envelope. 15”h x 65”diam when inflated.

SPAGHETTI OUTDOOR LOUNGE CHAIR ($225) Named for its flexible PVC bands, the foldable Spaghetti Outdoor Lounge Chair is a whimsical homage to Italy’s most beloved dish. Designed in the 1970s, the chair’s ergonomic backrest and armrests are made for maximum comfort, featuring PVC bands that are handwoven in Italy. The frame is made from ultra-lightweight aluminum making it the perfect lounge chair to fold up and carry to the beach and outdoor events - or it can just live permanently on your patio, deck or in your backyard. The Spaghetti Outdoor Lounge Chair has a backrest with six adjustable positions and a footstool with two positions. Made in Italy. Closed: 37.8”h x 23.8”w x 5.5”d.

MINI URI PORTABLE LAMPS (SET OF THREE $55) These smaller versions of the popular URI Lamp come in a set of three and are versatile enough to be used anywhere - indoors or out. Each has three dim settings and charges via USB cord. 1.5-hour charge time for full charge up to 20 hours of use per charge (8 hours at full power). Three colors: olive green, rust red and powder blue. 5.9”h x 2.95”diam. METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

THE LAST MEAL AT POMPEII

MAX MILLER HAS EXTRAVAGANT FOOD FOR ANY TIME WITH TASTING HISTORY BY ALEXANDER RODRIGUEZ

PAGES 14-16: MAX MILLER PHOTOS BY THE RIKER BROTHERS

DURING COVID, THE NATION’S RELATIONSHIP WITH FOOD HAS BEEN INTERESTING, TO SAY THE LEAST. COVID carbs are a thing, the allure of the fridge as our lockdown companion is strong, and Postmates now knows our gate codes by heart. What better way to pair our feedings than with a good binge-watch or two - or five? Content creation and viewing are up. A recent study showed that the average American is streaming eight hours of content a day and binge-watching three shows per week. That is a lot of content. Making life much easier in this one-click age is YouTuber Max Miller, who masterfully combines our favorite COVID pastimes of eating and video watching into his viral show, Tasting History with Max Miller. Each week, Max gives viewers a look at a historical recipe and explores its origins. Max is no stranger to the entertainment business; his early start was in musical theatre and voice acting (you must hear his Iago). He would eventually come to work for Disney Studios but, as for many in the film industry, would find himself without a job because of COVID. What was to start as a fun video hobby has turned into a fulltime gig with benefits, Tasting History’s audience has grown to over 585k subscribers, with 14 million total channel views and counting. Max has been recently featured in major outlets that include Today.com, Digital Trends, and the New York Post. The idea started before COVID hit, but my being furloughed gave me the opportunity to work on it full time. It also was my saving grace, because it gave me something to do other than sit in front

of the TV and watch hours of old BBC mystery shows. The show has taken off, to Max’s surprise, with a loyal and rapidly growing audience. He recently celebrated his oneyear anniversary with the show with a fun, fan Q & A. But when did he first start to realize he was becoming YouTube famous? Last June, a few days after my video on Garum went up. My subscribers doubled in a few hours, and a couple of days later I hit 100,000 subscribers. Each video is part history lesson, part comedy, and part food preparation, culminating in the final tasting denouement. It is masterfully edited and Max’s sincerity and aw-shucks attitude make his presentation a refreshing breath of air in the sea of growing content. Each video can take him from 30 to

80 hours from preparation to uploading. In this age where people can make a lucrative living on YouTube, everyone wants to know what the secrets are to becoming a YouTube star overnight. Max’s advice? I do not do anything consciously, I just keep making content that I would want to watch, and I figure if I would want to watch it, someone out there would too. Upload consistently! If you are not consistent, then you won’t get seen. Having spent time with Max, I can attest that there is no stereotypical YouTuber star mentality, Max is a gentle giant. His take on YouTube fame? I do not think there is one type of YouTube famous. It depends on the content, audience, and on the personality. Since I only started this after lockdown, I rarely METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

leave my house, and in my house, I am not YouTube famous. My cats don’t care. Max’s love for his cats is rivaled only by his love of history. Tasting History is a result not from food, but from the history he covers. I come for the history and stay for the recipe. Rather than the other way around. When I became obsessed with The Great British Bake Off, I loved how they tied history and food together in the first episodes, so it was a foray into baking for me. As a kid, Max wasn’t spending his time in the kitchen. Cooking and baking were not in his early skill sets and being raised in Phoenix, being a foodie was limited to local fare. I grew up mostly eating at home. On the weekends my dad would do the cooking. We ate a lot of Mexican and Japanese food and barbecue every Sunday night. I think Phoenix is a lot like most cities, some restaurants are great, some are not. What makes Phoenix special is its number of Mexican restaurants and the types of Mexican cuisine you can get. Tex-Mex, Sonoran, Baja, etc. The food he covers on the show could not be more different. He focuses on dishes from the Medieval and Renaissance eras, Ancient Greek and Roman times, and other traditional foods from around the world. Not your usual fare. In a truly fascinating episode of Tasting History, Max chats about the remnants of food that were found at the last meal at Pompeii in their version of an Ancient Rome fast food restaurant, a thermopolium. The popular fare? Snails - or for the fancy foodies – cochleas. Simply fried with pure salt and oil and basted with silphium, garum, pepper, and oil. Yum. Also, during this episode, Max translates some of the ancient graffiti found on the walls of these fast-food joints. “Apelles the Chamberlain of Dexter, a slave of Caesar, ate here most agreeably, and had a screw at the same time.” Many of these ready-to-eat food places also had adjoining rooms that were rented by the hour. The more you know. And where does Max find his recipes in the first place? There are a lot of old cookbooks that I use, but when it comes to the very old or obscure dishes, I must rely on ancient writings about the dish. Even if it is not an actual recipe. Then I recreate it the best I can. And the ingredients? A few spices, especially in the early days of the pandemic, were incredibly hard to find. For grains of paradise, I had to reach out to a farmer in Ghana to mail it to me.

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

Now you can get it on Amazon as next-day delivery. You never know where his trip around the historical globe will land, each week is something wildly different. Where does he get his inspiration? Sometimes it is a recommendation from a viewer, sometimes it’s me flipping through my collection of cookbooks. It really varies. Sometimes the dish is secondary after I have chosen a bit of history I want to cover. The more episodes you watch, the more you realize how much food has shaped our history. No one is exempt from the allures of a morsel. One fact that shocked me was that King Louis XVI was caught during the French Revolution because he had to stop for some brie and wine. The history of Europe changed because King Louis needed a snack. Max’s favorite period is the Edwardian times - but wasn’t it all turkey legs, porridge, and moldy wine? Perhaps you are thinking of an earlier King Edward. The Edwardian times I’m thinking of are the early 1900s, when food and clothing were extravagant, at least for the wealthy. I don’t want to live in any time period where I’m not wealthy. His recipes and content are for everyone. He does not lead with his sexuality but does not hide from it - perhaps a glimpse into the future of LGBTQ representation where our orientation is a part of who we are but is not our only definer. His companion show, Ketchup with Max and Jose, shows us a bit more of Max’s personal life as his fiancé Jose interviews him about past and upcoming Tasting History episodes, viewer comments, Pokémon, their ever-present cats, and whatever else comes up. With his place in the digital spotlight, Max recounts some of his favorite theatre moments and whether he will return to the stage. Perhaps a Tasting History musical? One of my favorite memories was getting to sing with Kristin Chenoweth in New York, in Music in the Air. It was just so cool to be on stage with her! Some of my favorite roles are Toby in Sweeney Todd, and Freddy in My Fair Lady - you are barely on stage, and you get to be the third to last bow! I don’t know, I’d like to think so, but if this year has taught me anything, I don’t know what I’ll be doing in the future. ■

If you would like to try your hand at tasting some history, try Max’s modern take on a historical recipe featuring Everlasting Syllabub – a creamy dish popular from the 16th to 19th centuries: Everlasting Syllabub Recipe: ORIGINAL 18TH CENTURY RECIPE (From The Art of Cookery Made Plain and Easy by Hannah Glasse) To make Everlasting Syllabub take five half pints of thick cream, and half a pint of sack, the juice of two seville oranges, or lemons, grate in just the yellow rind of three lemons, and a pound of double-refined sugar well beat and sifted. Mix all together with a spoonful of orange-flower water, beat it well together with a whisk half an hour, then with a spoon fill your glasses.

MAX’s MODERN RECIPE INGREDIENTS • 1 1/4 pint (590ml) heavy cream (or double cream) • 1/4 pint (120ml) of a medium sweet wine (white port, sherry) • The juice of 1 orange • The zest of 1 large lemon (or 2 small) • 1/2 pound (227g) powdered sugar • 1 tsp orange blossom water METHOD 1. Mix the cream and sugar together in a large bowl until sugar is dissolved. 2. Whisk in the remaining ingredients. 3. Whisk either by hand for 30 minutes or with an electric mixer until you form stiff peaks. 4. Serve or refrigerate for up to three days.

METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

STRIKING ONE LAST

POSE WITH

SANDRA BERNHARD 18

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

I HAVE BEEN FOLLOWING SANDRA BERNHARD SINCE THE 1980S when this relative unknown came on the scene in a big way going toe-to-toe with seasoned heavyweights like Jerry Lewis and Robert DeNiro in Martin Scorsese’s The King of Comedy. It was a groundbreaking performance in an iconic film about the cult of celebrity and what happens when things go off the rails. There was something subversive about Bernhard’s arresting portrayal of celebritystalking kidnapper Masha which spoke to me. She validated and empowered neurotics everywhere. I continued following Bernhard’s career over the decades across various platforms from her live stage performances to her forays into episodic television from Rosanne to Pose and her Sirius radio program Sandyland. Through it all, Sandra has remained an original who has managed to make us laugh and think at the same time. BY STEVE GOTTFRIED

METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

The last time I talked with Sandra Bernhard was when I interviewed her for Metrosource in November 2018 after the Democrats took back the House of Representatives and before Trump’s first impeachment. So, only weeks into the Biden administration, it felt like catching up with an old friend … albeit one who just happens to be a pop culture phenom and LGBTQ+ icon. I am happy to report that, all things considered, Sandra seemed to be in a really good place. She has resumed filming the third and final season of Pose and has settled into a semblance of normalcy with her 21-year relationship with her lady love Sara Switzer while marveling at her daughter Cicely’s post-collegiate life. We covered a lot of ground, including the recent passing of icons like RBG, Cloris Leachman and Larry King, to her thoughts on the inauguration and the work that lies ahead. How have you been coping during these trying times? Well, you know, it is a state of mind really. I am lucky. I have a fabulous partner/girlfriend/person I’ve been with for 21 years. We have a lot of fun and we are together a lot anyway, so segueing into this was not like a total shock. Our daughter graduated college in May, and she moved into her own apartment (in New York) and has a job working at a couple different cafes making sandwiches, so she found herself a job which is amazing. And she is safe. So, she is finding her way until she can move into her career. So that is a load off. Normally, just graduating from college is enough of a big transition. But under these circumstances, it is nearly impossible. And yet she has managed to maneuver her way into life and find some happiness and creativity. My girlfriend just got a fabulous new job with a big company. It’s sort of business-y and sort of creative. She works all day long out of our daughter’s bedroom, and I work out of our bedroom, and we meet in the middle for snacks and quick conversations. I go to the grocery store 2-3 times a week; we cook almost every night. And I have had tons and tons of Zoom events that I have been a part of. I do my radio show Sandyland once a week from home and that keeps me sane. I just recently started working out virtually with my trainer. I thought it was going to be hard, but actually it’s been great. He has been pushing me even though he is not right here with me. So, I work out with him once a week and then I do my own thing 3 or 4 times a week. I try to walk a couple miles, five days a week. So, when it comes to taking care of myself, I have just gotten into a routine.

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

And we have a dog named George, so we are out with him two or three times a day. That keeps us sort of engaged. It is great to have a dog. It is the best thing in the world. So that’s kind of been the broad strokes of how I have kept my sanity. Of course, I am much more able to do that now that I have a big burden lifted off my shoulders now that Joe and Kamala finally got into the White House. That was the hardest part of all of this. Dealing with the stress and the day-in and day-out shock of how horrible and thoughtless and dangerous the former President was. And what he wrought and what he left behind and what we are still dealing with, with people like Marjorie Taylor Green. The violence, the stupidity, the lack of sophistication, the unwillingness to just move forward and do the best we can do to get this country back on its feet. To them it is like a joke and it is very disturbing to see people behaving like this. And for all of us, it is this ongoing battle. But that is what we must do. We have got to roll up our sleeves and stay in the trenches and do whatever we can do to move things forward. Have you been bingeing any shows? Oh my God, I mean, all year long. I’ve lost track. The Queen’s Gambit is a great show, fabulous. I watched an Israeli show called Valley of Tears. It was about the Yom Kippur War. I happened to be in Israel during that time, so it was like being there again. Against the backdrop of death and destruction; that’s not so happy. But I was there so that was interesting to see that. And now we are watching the fourth season of a great French comedy Call My Agent, which just came out. I’ve watched The Crown of course which was amazing. I don’t want to bore you, but we have watched all the shows, and then some. What has the vibe been like on the Pose set? Well, it’s been serious. They are very strict about COVID testing, as they should be. So, I’ve been tested so many times. Everybody is wearing masks and shields and there is all this choreography of where everybody moves and goes and sits and waits. And when you shoot,

you wear your mask right up until the last possible minute until they roll the shot. It is hardcore, but it is the only way for it to work. But everybody is cool and doing what they have to do. We lost a lot of legends this year. Let’s start with Larry King. He was a great interviewer, fun to talk to. He always made you feel comfortable, he never poked at you or tried to make you go in a direction you did not want to go. He was just fun and menschy. Any thoughts on RBG’s passing? Yeah, it was horrifying, and obviously a disaster because one of the worst people in the world took her place, so we must get some additional seats in the Supreme Court to balance this out. While we are on the topic of dead celebrities … If you could invite some dead celebrities to a one-night-only séance, who would be on your list? Well, most recently for sure, it would be Mary Tyler Moore, Valerie Harper, and Cloris Leachman. I mean I am so sad that they are all gone now, that’s a total bummer. Those are the three I would most like to hang out with. Sandra looked back fondly on her memories as a teenager, watching The Mary Tyler Moore Show and The Carol Burnett Show in the ‘60s and ‘70s. I mean, there was just something about watching TV when I was growing up where it was special because it was limited. TV was on in the morning; it was on till like midnight and then it went off the air. It wasn’t like you could just stay up all night and tune in and constantly have your senses assaulted. There is something I miss about the simplicity of what life was like. There was a chance to really shut down and I miss that. Switching gears … If you had a magic wand, what one thing would you change about yourself? I think it’s what I’ve been changing throughout my life which is my ability to be patient. I am not the most patient person. And different things along the way have given me opportunities to become more patient. So, I think to just continue to wave that wand over myself and find ways of just being still and METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

THERE ARE A FEW PLACES I LOVE. I WOULD LOVE TO GO BACK TO MOROCCO, IT’S ONE OF MY FAVORITE PLACES. I LOVE THE MYSTICAL FEELING OF MOROCCO.”

SANDY SNACKABLES You mentioned earlier that you and Sara meet for snack breaks during the day. What are some of your go-to snacks? I eat a lot of apples. There is one kind of apple I love. It is called an “Envy” apple. You can get them at Whole Foods. Delicious. It is really crisp; you get a lot of taste. And I like eating carrots. And I love Sonoma Creamery Parmesan Crisps. They have quinoa and brown rice. I also get them at Whole Foods. Delicious. I like these puffs [Hippeas], made from chickpeas. I like Bark Thins, the one I eat has dark chocolate and pumpkin seeds. I love a cookie. I get these healthy peanut chocolate - they’re like M&M’s - but they’re from a healthy company. I like chocolate covered ginger. I kind of graze all day long. What is your cookie of choice? I think it is called Back to Nature. They are like those Girl Scout Thin Mint cookies, but it is a healthy version of that without all the hydrogenated oil and stuff. Those are delicious. Do you ever talk to Madonna anymore? No. I mean, I would if I saw her or if I heard from her, but she is off doing her thing. I mean, she has four kids. Two little ones and then two older ones. I think she lives in Europe most of the time, but I

don’t really run into her in New York. But nobody’s running into anybody right now. This is kind of feels like ancient history now, but what did you think about what happened to Kathy Griffin? She seemed to be the first sacrificial lamb in the Trump administration. You know, you put yourself in those situations with a person like that, you know you are going to get pilloried. I mean, what else can you say, he’s a horrible person. Did you feel like you had to watch what you said during the Trump years? Or did you feel unrestrained? I was careful. I wasn’t going to get into a pissing contest with him. I did it my own way, but no, I wasn’t going to start going straight for the jugular with him. He’s too scary and dangerous. But I got to say what I needed to say in my own way. Before we wrap up our conversation, any other thoughts for our readers? I just think this has been a very trying and obviously painful time for so many people, but also a great opportunity to shift our thinking and the way we look at life. So, I hope that when we finally come through this, we can maintain some of the sensibility of what we have learned. I think that is the most important thing to take away from it. ■

PAGES 18-22: PHOTOS COURTESY OF SANDRA BERNARD

meditative and being okay with that. And if you could change one thing about the world with that wand, what would that be? To just open people up to truly accept the unique qualities in each other. That does not mean I want to accept somebody being racist or misogynist. It must be something positive. Like if you are transgender or are gay or black or you’re not skinny, you know, those kinds of things. Because people can turn around and say why don’t you accept me because I don’t want you to have an abortion? Because I do not want you to legislate what women do to their bodies. So, then we are back to having the same argument. I think really, if you are not going to be on the same page of what is good for most people, then just stay off the page completely. This is our annual travel issue. So, with that in mind, what is your favorite travel destination? Well right now it would be just about anywhere. There are a few places I love. I would love to go back to Morocco, it’s one of my favorite places. I love the mystical feeling of Morocco. I love Paris, London, Italy; those are some of my favorite places to go back to again. Anywhere you’ve never been that you’ve always want to go? Yeah, I haven’t been to Barcelona. I haven’t been to Japan yet, so … I’ll put Japan on that list. When you travel, do you like finding really great places to stay or do you prefer off-thebeaten-path type places? More recently, we have rented apartments and places to stay in different cities, which is cool because I like to get up in the morning and make myself breakfast. I like that feeling of being in a neighborhood in a city. But I also love staying in great hotels. So, it depends on what I’m doing and how long I’m going to be somewhere. What did you think of the inauguration? I thought it was one of the most incredible days – I wish it would happen every day. It was beautiful, it was restrained, it was poetic, it covered all the bases of what needed to be addressed in these times. I think Joe Biden has just been flawless in his first weeks as President. What did you think of the poet laureate? I thought she (Amanda Gorman) was phenomenal. Beautiful. I hope she can handle all the attention and the stress because she is very young.

LIVING ON CLOUD NICO SANTOS ON SUPERSTORE, CRAZY RICH ASIANS, AND THE NEED FOR ASIAN REPRESENTATION AND DIVERSITY IN THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY BY ALEXANDER RODRIGUEZ IN MARCH, NBC SAID A BITTERSWEET FAREWELL TO ITS SIX-SEASON HIT, SUPERSTORE, THAT FEATURED AN ODDBALL FAMILY OF SORTS AS THE EMPLOYEES OF THE SUPERSIZED MEGASTORE CLOUD 9 DEALT WITH CUSTOMER ISSUES AS WELL AS THEIR OWN LIFE’S MALADIES. Presented as a heartfelt comedy with some outlandish storylines, the show cleverly represented a wide variety of social themes without pomp and circumstance, making Superstore a huge mainstream success in representing issues that dealt with class, ethnicity, ability, religion, immigration, and sexuality.

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

Meant as a vehicle for Ugly Betty star, America Ferrera, the show’s impeccable casting turned the show into a true ensemble piece with every type of actor under the rainbow being represented. Not merely checking off diversity boxes, the characters had depth and sincerity to them. Hot topics like surviving on minimum wage, on-the-job harassment, and equality of women in the workplace, were covered as well as the timely issue of undocumented workers in the United

be a sitcom itself, detailing his journey to find his identity and his place in the entertainment world. Born in Manila, he moved to the States when he was sixteen, a hard age for anyone. Dealing with puberty is challenging enough, add being an immigrant on top of that? My parents are divorced, and it was my father who first moved here. My brother and I stayed back with my mom in the Philippines. Being a divorced single mother of two in a

States. One of Superstore’s most colorful characters, Mateo, dealt with the ever-present threat of being deported while never being able to advance his career because of his lack of citizenship - oh, and he’s gay. In a major win for LGBTQ as well as Filipino representation on network television, the role of Mateo was perfectly cast with costumer, turned stand-up comic, turned actor, Nico Santos. A stand-out in Superstore, he also held his own (often stealing scenes) in the powerhouse cast of Crazy Rich Asians, sharing the screen with the likes of Michelle Yeoh, Awkwafina, and Henry Goulding. Nico’s own life story could

very Catholic, conservative country was not easy. My mom wanted more for us, so we explored our options and decided to give the US of A a good ol’ fashioned try! It was such a big move at such an impressionable time in my life. I had only spent time in the United States as a tourist before, so in my head, America was all Disneyland and Vegas and the Grand Canyon. Plus, since I grew up watching American TV, I was fully expecting Beverly Hills 90210. I moved to Gresham, Oregon and it was just the opposite of that. Mateo and his brother attended Gresham’s Centennial High School, earning their designation as the only two Filipinos in the entire school. People would just say stupid things like, “How come you look Chinese, but your last name is Mexican?” and “OMG did you live in a hut?!” Yeah it was just having

to constantly educate people and dealing with microaggressions or sometimes just flat out blatantly racist stuff all the time. Though moving to the States would offer its challenges, it also opened his eyes to a whole new world. I always knew I was different; I just did not have the language for it. But it wasn’t until I moved to America and I was exposed to all sorts of people and wasn’t under the grip of a super Catholic upbringing, that I started being honest with myself. I came out to a couple of people in high school but by freshman year of college, I was fully out and loving it. I had to tell my mom over the phone because she was still living in the Philippines. When I finally mustered up the courage to tell her, she stops me and says, “You’re gay? Wait …didn’t we talk about this last year?” “I think I would remember coming out to my own mother,” I replied. There was a small beat then she just carried on, “I’ve known since you were four years old,” and just proceeded to dish about my titos and titas, [Laughs] Mothers always know. His advice for someone coming out? Coming out is hard. It is also very personal and there is no right or wrong way to do it. Nowadays, there are many resources for help if you don’t have anyone from your immediate family or friends to turn to for support. Just make sure you feel safe and supported when you do it. Just remember you are loved, you are perfect, and there are a lot of us out here waiting to lift you up when you need it. His parents’ divorce estranged Nico from his father, but his mother took up the reigns to become Nico’s support system - in life and in his career. My mom and I are super close. She was very supportive of me

METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

going into the arts and entertainment, which I do not have to tell you is so not typical for immigrant parents. But even when I was just starting out, she would go to a lot of my shows at bars and stuff. I even took her on a gay cruise that I was performing at and she had the time of her life. LOL. She was constantly going up to guys and asking them, “Are you single? My son is the comedian on the ship!” Nico’s love for entertainment would come from where most gay performers get their inspiration. Musicals. It was seeing Carol Burnett in the movie Annie when I was a kid that left such an impression on me. I just thought she was the funniest person I had ever seen, and I remember thinking, I want to do that! I kept quoting her screaming, “Leapin’ Lizards!” or “She hadda go bathroom ...” and other kids would be looking at me like I am crazy. His family’s chance move to Oregon would place him near one of the best theatre groups in the nation, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Each year, the festival offers 800 to 850 matinee and evening performances of a wide range of classic and contemporary plays to a total annual audience of nearly 400,000. At any given time between five and eleven plays are offered in daily rotation six days a week in its three theatres. Nico studied with them as a junior in high school for their summer program, and later when he attended Southern Oregon University. Even with this prestigious group, Nico was still trying to find his place in performance. He was discouraged by the acting program and transitioned to costume design - all because of a nasty acting coach. He was an awful teacher, but honestly, that program was just not right for me. I did not really want to do classical theatre, but at the time I thought that was the only way into being on stage. It was not until I discovered stand-up that that notion was shattered for me. If I had to do it all over again, I probably wouldn’t go to theatre school and would have just moved to a big city and gotten into comedy immediately. Nico moved to San Francisco and would establish himself in the stand-up comedy circuit, often performing at open mic nights after a day of working in retail luxury. The first open mic I did was at this bar called Club Deluxe near Haight and Ashbury in San Francisco. I had been toying around with the idea of doing stand-up for a while but was always too afraid to do it. Then I got a call to see if I wanted my old job in Oregon and I said to myself, “You moved to San Francisco to do

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

(l-r) Ben Feldman as Jonah, America Ferrera as Amy, Nico Santos as Mateo. Photo by Greg Gayne/NBC

(l-r) Kelly Schumann as Justine, Nico Santos as Mateo, Colton Dunn as Garrett, Jon Barinholtz as Marcus, Nichole Sakura as Cheyenne, Kaliko Kauahi as Sandra. Photo by Chris Haston/NBC

something different, just try it out and if you don’t like it then you can go back to Oregon.” I was working at Neiman’s at the time, and I turned to my friend on the sales floor and asked, “Does your friend still do that open mic?” After a few minutes she said, “You’re all set. I signed you up and it’s tonight!” There was no backing out, but the moment I finished my set I was hooked. I cannot believe I even waited this long to do it. It was a light bulb moment for me. His decision to stick with it would start his journey to Hollywood. Chelsea Lately, hosted by comedian Chelsea Handler, came calling. Also giving rise to gay persona Ross Mathews, the show would be Nico’s debut on television. I opened for Heather McDonald in San Francisco and she put in a word for me, and one of Chelsea’s producers happened to see me that night too. So, like a lot of things in the industry, I was in the right place at the right time. His reaction to seeing himself on TV for the first time? Exciting and vomit-inducing at the same time. It’s hard to watch yourself because you can’t help but tear yourself apart and criticize what you could have done better. In 2015, NBC would choose Superstore as their one out of three pilots to greenlight for that year. The series debuted following an episode of The Voice with 7 million viewers, making it the secondhighest rated new comedy behind Life in Pieces. It then moved to Mondays and would become the highest-rated NBC comedy that did not have The Voice as a lead-in since The Michael J. Fox Show back in September 2013. After Season 1’s finale, the Los Angeles Times called it “One of TV’s best new comedies.” Led by America Ferrera and Kids in the Hall veteran Mark McKinney, the cast of relatively unknowns would quickly become recognizable fan favorites. What was the audition process for Superstore like? Nerve-racking. I hate auditioning. It’s all so awkward and you don’t want to come off too thirsty even though you totally are. Especially when you are just starting out and you just want to book that one job that will make a difference. So, all I remember was being very nervous and just wanting to do my best. I make a conscious decision to try and forget my auditions because if you don’t, you end up obsessing and that is not what you want to spend your time doing. Nico’s first day on set would prove to be interesting, complete with a scene with America Ferrera and vomit.

During our lunch break, a friend of mine who works at Universal met me and asked if I wanted to sneak into the theme park, so we did! We had a blast exploring. Then he said, “Let’s go on the Transformers ride.” I had never been on a motion simulator ride before and I didn’t think anything of it. But good grief after we got off, I was so nauseous. I immediately had to film a scene with America Ferrera where I had to spin and dance. I puked in my trailer immediately afterward. I ended up having vertigo for a couple of days. His bold performance belies a shy, unassuming Nico. But his time in Superstore would not only bolster his career, but it would also help him find his footing and his identity. I am not the most confident person but working on this show has changed that. I am surrounded by some truly mega-talented artists who I respect and have admired for so long that being able to hold my own with them, having them respect my work, and being able to make them laugh, made me believe in myself just a little bit more. Not reveling in his newfound stardom, his first Critic’s Choice Nomination for his role would come as a pleasant surprise. I honestly still forget that that happened sometimes because it feels not real. I was nominated the same year Crazy Rich Asians came out, and I started getting all these congratulatory texts. I just assumed they were congratulating the movie being nominated. My agent even called me saying, “OMG CONGRATS!” I was very calm and was like, “Oh thanks yeah, the movie has been doing well this awards season, blah blah blah …” And they were like, “No, YOU are nominated!” I just screamed and my boyfriend thought someone died or something. [Laughs] The fact that I was nominated for playing a role so close to who I am, I just never thought it would happen. It meant a lot. When you grow up different, so many voices keep telling you to hide who you are. So being nominated as a queer Filipino immigrant playing a queer Filipino immigrant felt special. With Nico’s natural personality and comedic timing, his over-the-top character Mateo did not just become a sitcom stereotype. He kept the audience laughing while presenting the complex issue of immigration. No spoiler, but his character does have to deal with some of his worst fears in his story. Being an undocumented American was certainly a hot issue under our last administration, and Nico’s own parents were both undocumented METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

I AM NOT THE MOST CONFIDENT PERSON BUT WORKING ON THIS SHOW HAS CHANGED THAT. I AM SURROUNDED BY SOME TRULY MEGA-TALENTED ARTISTS WHO I RESPECT AND HAVE ADMIRED FOR SO LONG THAT BEING ABLE TO HOLD MY OWN WITH THEM, HAVING THEM RESPECT MY WORK, AND BEING ABLE TO MAKE THEM LAUGH”

“Who are these people?” Who can spend this much money every month on shoes and handbags? Turns out my retail experience turned out to be helpful not only in Superstore but in Crazy Rich Asians as well. And, of course, it is a gay man’s fantasy to share screen time with Michelle Yeoh. God, she was just so amazing. A LEGEND and I just savored every second we worked together. I was just in awe of her because I know her mostly from action movies and to see her give this silk and steel performance was incredible to watch. Playing gay as a gay man in Hollywood is a testament to how far we have come in our representation. We still have far to go. Crazy Rich Asians also started a conversation about increased Asian representation in the industry, perhaps sparked by the high earnings but certainly carried through by those who believe in ethnic equality in film. I love all the representation that is happening in front of the camera. More of that, please! But I truly believe that the only way things will change is if there’s diversity behind the camera, in the boardrooms. We need to diversify the people who make the decisions and write the checks because right now it is mostly old/cisgender/heterosexual/ white/male city up in there! Projects with Asian leads or very diverse

casts started getting greenlit once Crazy Rich Asians and Black Panther came into the scene. Now, if your team or cast is not diverse you will definitely get called out. Looking back at his journey from the outcast kid in high school, to getting yelled at in acting classes, to braving open mic nights, to earning critical and audience acclaim, to his current position as a role model for LGBTQ POC actors, he still has an awe-shucks aura about him. My life is not that different. Sure, you get recognized a bit more, but I am not super famous. [Laughs] Plus I live in LA, people here just kind of leave you alone. You know I just keep thinking of what a scared little kid I was when I moved to the US. I was clueless and afraid. The fact that my life has ended up like this is truly a miracle and I am living proof that anything is possible. You just have to put in the work. What is next on his plate? Right now, Asian storylines in TV and film tend to be all lumped together and there is such a vast and different number of creative wells to draw from. I would love to tell more Filipino stories. Also, I want to be in Wicked. [Laughs] His message to the LGBTQ community is clear and perfectly Nico Be nice and stay fabulous. ■

PAGE 24 & 28: NICO SANTOS PHOTOS BY IRVIN RIVERA WWW.GRAPHICSMETROPOLIS.COM

before becoming citizens. He has a unique point of view through his own life and his character. People have this impression that undocumented immigrants just leech off the government, when, in fact, undocumented workers pay about $27 billion in taxes every year. You are more connected to undocumented people than you think. They are your neighbors, your friends, they are hardworking, contributing members of society. Saying goodbye to the show with two Critic’s Choice nominations, stardom, and a hit movie under his belt is bittersweet. If his journey thus far is any example, Nico’s next step will be just as fabulous. It has been a couple of weeks now since Superstore wrapped, but I still feel like I’m just on hiatus and I’ll be coming back to work any day now. I got paid to be silly and goofy and if you had told me years ago that was a legitimate career option, I would have said you were crazy. Working on the show has been such an education and you cannot help but get better just by being in proximity of such amazing actors and comedians. What did take a second to get used to was just the mechanics of working in front of the camera. I am used to being on stage and doing whatever I want. Having to hit your marks, learning about camera angles, coverage, etc. took a second to adjust to. The success of Crazy Rich Asians was a Hollywood blockbuster surprise. With a modest budget of $30 million, it had a worldwide gross of $239 million. In October 2018, it became the highest-grossing romantic comedy of the last ten years, and the sixth highest-grossing ever. Playing Oliver T’sien, perhaps the most colorful character from the story, is the result of a deft act of high comedy meets artful preparation. I wanted to stay true to the book version of Oliver. I worked on the voice first then built everything from there. Oliver is an outsider even in his own family. His queerness is never explicitly discussed because of the social circles he is in, and he is not as rich as his family members. That is why his heart goes out to Rachel Chu, because he too, due to circumstances he can’t control, “will never be enough.” Remember that time spent working in retail luxury in San Francisco? Life would come full circle and his experience would come in handy. When I worked retail, I had a few crazy rich Asian clients and I often wondered,

BLOND:ISH: Vivie-Ann Bakos

RESTORE OUR EARTH THIS PAGE: BLOND:ISH BYE BYE PLASTIC PHOTO BY SIAN KAAN • CAMILLE GUITTEAU PHOTO COURTESY OF BYE BYE PLASTIC FOUNDATION

BYE BYE PLASTIC FOUNDATION AIMS TO ELIMINATE SINGLE-USE ITEMS IN THE DJ BOOTH AND BEYOND

WHEN THE BASS HITS JUST RIGHT, THE BODY BEGINS TO SWAY. A fervent build and energetic claps send the feet into hyperdrive. Bring a good melody into the mix, and it is nearly impossible to resist the urge to move in tandem with the beat … when the environment allows, of course. BY MEGAN VENZIN “I was at this large festival in Spain and I just couldn’t enjoy dancing - the core joy of being there,” says Co-Founder of Bye Bye Plastic Foundation, Camille Guitteau, M.D.“I couldn’t get it started because I was stepping upon this pile of plastic. I wanted to cry just thinking about this. That was the one moment when I realized, okay, we can change this, and it’s going to make such a huge impact.” Anyone who has attended an event at

Camille Guitteau, M.D

a packed nightclub, or an outdoor music event can relate to Guitteau’s unpleasant memory. Get a crowd of humans together, and the trash problem is real. Sadly, those issues do not end when the clean-up crews arrive after the encore either. According to the popular industry blog EDM.com, a Coachella-sized music festival (which takes place across two weekends and sees more than 250,000 attendees enter its gates) produces an average of 106 tons of METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

waste per event day. A massive amount of that bulk comes in the form of single use plastics drinking cups, water bottles, straws, cutlery, etc. - which all too often end up in landfills where they sit forever. Bye Bye Plastic Foundation wants to change that. The Netherlands-based, sustainabilityfocused nonprofit organization was launched in January 2020 by Guitteau and Vivie-Ann Bakos, a renowned electronic music producer better known as BLOND:ISH. The two linked up through an online community called shesaid. so, which represents women and gender minorities who work in music. They quickly realized they had a shared aspiration: to eliminate single use plastics from the music industry. “This whole circular model starts with the DJs,” says Bakos, who spends sunny days and late nights behind the decks. “They have the power of influence, and their voices trickle down to activate all the different actors within this industry.” In other words, the performers are best poised to be catalysts for lasting change. To stay on target and “turn activism into actionism” (as Bakos puts it), Bye Bye Plastic Foundation follows a set of guidelines based on international standards upheld by trusted institutions such as the United Nations and the Stockholm Resilience Center. One of Bye Bye Plastic’s first initiatives came in the form of an “Eco-Rider,” which they have shaped for mass use by artists who wish to participate in the plastic-free movement. By adopting this tool, performers pledge a commitment to request their hosting venues and events remove single use plastics from the DJ booth. For example, artists may choose to swap standard water bottles for items like boxed waters, which feature biodegradable packaging. It is a simple modification that doesn’t require a huge financial commitment from party promoters or venue owners. More than 1,500 artists have adopted the Eco-Rider so far, including influential techno names like Adam Beyer, ANNA, and Eats Everything. For artists who are already tapped into environmental activism, taking this step is a no-brainer. “The Eco-Rider is a straightforward way for artists to get involved in climate action,” says Eli Goldstein, a New York-based DJ and producer who performs with the duo Soul Clap, as well as solo under the moniker Bamboozle. “It’s a powerful way to use our collective power as creators to influence change in the industry and also provides an opportunity to educate our

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

THIS PAGE: BLOND:ISH PHOTO BY MAKERS TULUM • IMAGE COURTESY OF BLOND:ISH

communities about why getting rid of single use plastics is so important.” With extra time near home afforded by the pandemic, Goldstein recently decided to follow his dream of pursuing a master’s degree in Climate Science and Policy, so Bye Bye Plastic’s ethos aligns with values he already holds near and dear. He is also a living example of how respected artists can help shape the messages that permeate nightlife spaces and live on through festival culture. The story has already begun to shift in a positive direction. The Foundation recently saw their impact reach beyond backstage green rooms and onto the dance floor when a Florida-based events space known as Sanctuary began serving cocktails in reusable metal cups, a move made in consultation with Bye Bye Plastic. Though live events were relatively scarce in the states in 2020 due to COVID-19, this did not stop Bakos from activating partners and fans (who she lovingly refers to as “eco warriors”) in the virtual realm. BLOND:ISH’s ABRATV

channel on the Twitch platform has more than 59,000 followers and has become a global sounding board for the activist and her mission. Using the hashtag #PlasticFreeParty, the top-knot sporting “tech-house magician” has encouraged viewers to be more conscious, even when watching streams or interacting in VR spaces at home. “Virtual Reality is a space where you can gamify and incentivize sustainability and green actions,”Guitteau elaborates.“It’s a place to build awareness. Eventually, everyone will become used to the idea of not throwing their rubbish on the dance floor. There will be no question as to whether [this behavior] is something we want at our physical events anymore.” BLOND:ISH and her partner, Liana Hillison, have spent much of the last year bolstering the ABRACADABRA brand which touts itself as a portal for “music, magic, self-love and sustainability.” Through their efforts, two virtual music festivals with philanthropic goals - ABRAFest and ABRACADRA New Years - were born. “We used ABRAFest to push initiatives METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

THIS PAGE: MAGE BY VONECIA CARSWELL/UNSPLASH • IMAGE BY GLOBELET REUSABLE/UNSPLASH • IMAGE BY YVETTE DE WIT/UNSPLASH • IMAGE BY YVETTE DE WIT/UNSPLASH • BLOND:ISH PHOTO BY LIANA HILLISON

MUSIC, MAGIC, SELF-LOVE AND SUSTAINABILITY.”

through,” Bakos explains.“We collaborated with Parley for the Oceans and Lonely Whale and curated a lot of content around sustainability - round tables, workshops, panels. We want to become this hub and safe space for the music industry, so if you want answers for sustainability, you come to us.” The word is certainly out. A partnership with Masks for Music was another triumph for Bye Bye Plastic, who last year helped the company produce eco-friendly packaging for their masks and shipping materials. The program became an important way to promote mask-wearing during the pandemic, while also supporting artists and venues who were unable to draw performance revenue during the global health crisis. “2020 was amazing because I met people in sustainability that I wouldn’t have if I were touring,” Bakos shares optimistically. “There’s amazing cross pollination happening.” Now that vaccinations are well underway and events are slowly making their resurgence, Bye Bye Plastic has a big opportunity to reinforce the important lessons they’ve learned and activate the partners they’ve amassed since their launch. Next on their agenda is a project called Stage Positive. “We’re creating a mentorship program that is crafted to empower the artist community. It really leads them through a track of understanding how they can tune their voice and their artistic work to the climate debate,” Guitteau explains. Their opinions and willingness to disperse knowledge will only become more important as climate change issues become more urgent. Bakos is the perfect figurehead for this program, as she never hesitates to speak her mind, even when the subject matter skews political. She has toured extensively throughout her career and says she can

feel how out of balance the planet is due to human activity. “I’ve traveled the world, experienced culture and biodiversity, and I see it disappearing,” she says in a serious tone.“I really feel that I can make a change in the music industry, this is my passion and it’s not going anywhere.” In the meantime, Bakos and Guitteau will continue to educate themselves and those around them. After pursuing a course together in Amsterdam, the two became certified Greener Festival Assessors where they learned how to measure the impact of events and recognize those that have shown an exceptional commitment to sustainability and other eco-friendly initiatives. Bye Bye Plastic Foundation is also an implementation partner for Oceanic Global, an organization that is similarly focused on encouraging people to live out “plastic-free journeys.” By sharing their experiences, Bakos and Guitteau hope to stand out as subject matter experts and position themselves as go-to resources for the international music community. Artists were low hanging fruit who helped jumpstart Bye Bye Plastic’s action plan, and festivals and party organizers are next on the list. “We want to be here for everyone because everyone has their part to play,” Guitteau reiterates.“And promoters have a huge opportunity to have a real measurable impact on the plastic consumption at their events, and an opportunity to change the narrative for so many people.” And when they do, we will finally be able to dance wild and free, without worrisome clutter beneath our toes - the very way nature intended. ■

To learn more about how to adopt a plasticfree lifestyle, or to partner with Bye Bye Plastic Foundation visit www.byebyeplastic.life METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

LESLI RULES

LESLI MARGHERITA KNOWS THE SUREFIRE WAY TO COMBAT SOCIAL MEDIA HATERS BY ALEXANDER RODRIGUEZ LESLI MARGHERITA IS A LOT OF THINGS. She is an Olivier Award winner, a Broadway belter, an actor, a Star Wars geek, a Muppet freak, an LGBTQ ally, and above all, she is a Queen. Her message to the world is simple: Rule Your Kingdom. Leading by example, she has made a kingdom for herself and has shared her journey through song, storytelling, and social media – bumps and all. Recently, at the end of a self-tape audition, the camera kept rolling and she had a breakdown erupting in tears of exhaustion and frustration. The isolation of COVID and the “audition after audition” life in front of a cold camera lens with the same blank background as a set had taken its toll. “You feel awful. You feel like the worst actor. Am I ever going to get a gig again?” Instead of hitting delete and posting a filtered selfie, she shared it. She thought it was more important to remain honest in a sea of the smoke of mirrors that Instagram has become. She wanted to share that COVID was affecting us all, Olivier Award on the shelf or not. This is why we love Lesli - behind the big hair, the big chest, and the big voice, she’s one of us. And despite some audition life lows during COVID, she has persevered and shown that COVID can’t keep a theatre girl down and has taken the show from the stage to your screen. She is a Queen in every sense of the word, and we are living for it. How did she become the self-branded Queen? METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

It was accidental. From childhood, I’ve written “Lesli Rules” (80s kid) on EVERYTHING. I still do it. I was tired of everyone deciding on a label for me. I decided to give myself one - the only one that mattered. Queen was natural. I like crowns and sparkles and was already decreeing that I ruled. I believe you can call yourself whatever you want. I rule. I rule ME. My kingdom of ME. On stage, she boasts a larger-than-life personality whether it’s playing a fiery gypsy in Zorro, a mother from hell in Matilda, a tyrannical vamp in Dames at Sea, or the Princess Emoji in Emojiland, she seems like the bad girl of Broadway. She’s that girl in high school who you’d smoke with under the bleachers but who gets every lead in the Spring musical … or is she? Sorry to burst your bubble. I was and still am a good girl. Never smoked - I cannot stand the smell of pot. LOL. I was the Homecoming Queen who also got the lead roles. I was that annoying head cheerleader who got along with everyone and never got into trouble because I was already working and had my eye on the prize. Gross, I know. She is a California girl who went from singing to cows on the ranch to graduating from UCLA. Success would not wait for Lesli and she got her first big break right out of college. In theatre? No ... In a TV show about kids in a theatre school. It was called Fame L.A.; the role was Liz Clark. Liz was a comedian. I had NO experience doing that. My final audition was at the famous Comedy Club in LA, doing improv. I sure pulled that one out of my butt. Looking back, I kind of hate that I got the job from my first big audition - it was a huge letdown after that because I thought getting every job was just that easy. It was not. Not one to follow the rules, she finally got to Broadway – backward. Most actors start on Broadway then cross their way over the pond to the West End. Not Lesli. As chance would have it, Zorro, the Gypsy King musical in London, was looking for its heroine, the red-hot Inez. I was called in to audition for a reading of one act, and I was called in for a different role. When I got in the room, I just said, “I’m not auditioning for that other role. Ha!” They had me sing Bamboleo, and the rest is history. Well, three years, about ten readings, and a fight with the union to get me there. Her performance would earn her the highly coveted Olivier Award, the highest honor in British theatre and England’s version of the Tony

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

Awards. No place really for an American. But there she was with a nomination. Where was she when she found out about the nomination? In a rehearsal for a reading of something else. It’s not like the Tonys, there is no campaigning, or endless articles predicting nominees - it’s just the cool Oliviers. I didn’t even know nominations were coming out. I loved that. She would win that award. She has joked onstage that it was because she flashed her panties during her performance. Her acceptance speech is on YouTube and is an utter joy to see her excitement and energy in the middle of a very British awards show. Americans didn’t really win, at least not many had then, and everyone told me not to expect to win. Plus, my category was men and women together - another thing I loved, so I REALLY did not expect to win. I prepared nothing, as evidenced by my nutty speech. It was very me. Afterward, very respectable British actors wanted pictures with me like a zoo animal because they thought I was so funny … and American. Broadway took notice and she would star in Matilda the Musical as Mrs. Wormwood, Matilda’s colorful mom. The show was accompanied by a flurry of press and attention from theatre critics to a new generation of Broadway theatergoers alike. From singing on ranch land in her youth to gathering herself a few minutes before curtain on her first preview, she was a mix of emotions. I had waited SO long to get to Broadway, no one would hire me, and I had years of close calls. So, when it happened, I was a mess. Not opening night, but the first preview. That was my actual debut and I just remember being in the wings so emotional. I never took that experience for granted, and I still don’t; getting to be on Broadway is a dream, so I don’t get people complaining about it. She played that role to the hilt - about 1000 times, with a cast of children. It wasn’t Xanax or Pinot Grigio that got her through. (It was) realizing that I had worked my entire life to get to be on that stage. If you stay in the grateful, it’s easier on the days your body would like to stop. Plus, the kids were rad - and had the time of their lives, it was hard not to get caught up in that. Her debut album, Rule Your Kingdom: Live at Feinstein’s/54 Below, is quintessential Lesli. Nothing is off the table and she tells her life METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

story in the best way she knows how - from the heart. Her stories are as vibrant and colorful as her singing. I have been doing my cabaret shows for over a decade - way before even coming to NY. It was always a dream to do a live album because the stories in my shows are just as important as the songs. Sometimes more so. I am for sure going to do a studio album at some point, but I love that this show was captured. She had played the West End, she had played Broadway, but recording her show at the iconic Feinstein’s/54 Below was all eyes on her, not only was it her debut album, but it was LIVE. I love imperfection, even though I am a perfectionist. Since I was a kid, I have been listing to Saint Bette’s Mud Will Be Flung Tonight - and I always loved how real it was. We recorded three nights and picked our favorites. So much did not make it on! Special edition, maybe … There is a special quality that Lesli possesses onstage in her cabaret show. Country music, Broadway, pop, it is all there in her signature belt. Her voice comes from a Broadway background but is too varied to be categorized

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

by one genre. Aww, thx! I grew up on a cattle ranch country has always been my favorite. My voice has always been different, which now I love, but it is what it is. I do not avoid sounding any one way, it just doesn’t do that. I hate when people try and change their sound. A hilariously sad highlight of the show is her segment about social media. No celebrity is immune to social media haters. Especially during COVID and our last administration, we have seen a huge wave of keyboard warriors who get pleasure from attacking others on everything from appearance to lifestyle. Lesli’s surefire way to combat social media haters? Chardonnay, then crying, then picking myself up and remembering that someone hates themselves so much that they took time out of their own life to comment on me. I win. About five years ago, during Dames at Sea, I stopped reading reviews. I would spiral. None of it matters, good or bad. My performances are mine, and if someone does not like them, that’s fine. I don’t like raisins in anything, but I don’t waste time writing an anti-raisin diatribe.

People suck. Once you realize they will not stop sucking, you decide not to care. This doesn’t sound right … 2021 brought in a new way to experience theatre - digitally. Lesli, with a cast of three other theatre veterans, took part in You I Like on PlayhouseLive, filmed at and produced by the historic Pasadena Playhouse. Conceived and musically directed by theater veteran Andy Einhorn (Broadway’s Hello, Dolly, Carousel), the show featured the music of Jerry Herman, known for his optimistic take on life through show tunes, coming at a most opportune time. Even though filmed with a socially distanced crew on a stage to an empty audience, the result was magical. It captured the magic of a live performance with the nuances of cinematic intimacy. But rehearsing in masks six feet from castmates and no applause to keep you going must have been difficult. It was tough - what works on stage does not translate to film, but we had to ride that fine line. I was lucky in that I have filmed many musical numbers for film and TV, but Jerry’s songs are so bombastic, it was tough to remember not to play to the balcony. Lesli was given the showstoppers “Hello,

PAGES 34-39: PHOTOS COURTESY OF LESLI MARGHERITA

I LOVE IMPERFECTION, EVEN THOUGH I AM A PERFECTIONIST.”

Dolly” and “I Am What I Am,” both of which have been performed by many of the theatre’s legends. What did she do when she got her song assignments? What was that process? First, pooping. Then realizing I have to just do it. I purposely didn’t listen to other versions; it would freak me out. I never do anyways - it’s a recipe for disaster and endless comparison. “I Am What I Am” was the one that scared me. I wanted to do it justice, it is so important to so many. In the end, it was just realizing that there was no wrong way to sing it. All of Jerry’s songs are like that. They are personal. Her performance was nothing short of stunning and powerful. “I Am What I Am” took on a whole new life. Now they can add another legend singing those songs. For every one of Lesli’s curtain calls, she has a volunteered performance for a benefit to our community. She has been (literally) a vocal ally for our cause. The LGBT Bar Association of Greater New York, Broadway Sings for Pride, the Ali Forney Center for LGBTQ youth, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, and more – she is there ready to raise the key and some money. My mother always says I was “raised by gays.” I started doing professional theater at ten, and my mom would have no issue leaving me alone because she knew the gay men in the show were taking care of me. It has always been a non-issue in my family. I am so lucky that as a kid I never had any judgment or opinions forced on me. I do not pretend to know what it was like to live through (the last administration) the way the LGBTQ community has, but I can say that as an ally and someone who is often in disbelief at the way people are treated in this country, I have to believe that the only way out is through. And I think we are coming through a terrible time. It is still icky, it will always be abhorrent to me that there is so much hate in this country, but I do know that every day we are chipping away at that hate. I still cannot quite understand why. She has been on both sides of Pride, as our fierce diva ally and as our honorary gay bestie. How can we build stronger bridges with our ally community? I think listening to people instead of rushing to get on a platform is important. Just effing LISTEN. That way, when you want to help, it is coming from a real place of HOW can I help, vs. just wanting to look like you’re helping on social media. LOL.

Her motto, Rule Your Kingdom, rings true for anyone, especially that closeted kid in a small town. You know who you are. No one can decide that for you. Stay strong in that. Put up those castle walls. But be benevolent. Anyone making you feel “less than” is so beneath you. Poor them. Do not even stoop to their level. Stooping is hideous and wrinkles your fab outfits. Trust …

their day will come. Keep your head up or the crown will slip, honey. And what has she learned most from the LGBTQ community? Resilience, perseverance, courage, unconditional love. ■

Lesli can currently be seen on Netflix’ The Crew. Find everything Lesli at www.leslimargherita.com

URGE THE SENATE THE TO PASS

EQUALITY ACT Over 80% of Americans think it is illegal under U.S. federal law to discriminate against LGBTQ people in housing, public accommodations, and other areas of life.

THIS IS NOT TRUE. The Equality Act will ban discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in: employment, education, housing credit, jury service, public accommodations and federal funding. glaad.org/equalityact Source: GLAAD, 2020 Accelerating Acceptance Study

METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

WHAT’S IN YOUR DOPP KIT?

GRAB THOSE TRAVEL-SIZED SKIN CARE ITEMS

BODY

HEALTH

BY JEFFREY JAMES KEYES

DO YOU SPEND TOO MUCH TIME FUMBLING THROUGH MEDICINE CABINETS TRYING TO DECIDE WHAT TO PACK FOR BUSINESS TRIPS, VACATIONS, AND WEEKEND GETAWAYS? TSA

guidelines allow travelers to carry quart-sized bags of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in carry-on bags. These travel-sized containers must be 3.4 ounces or less. Streamline packing for your upcoming trip by ordering travel sized grooming and skincare products that are designed to not only fit in your dopp kit but will make it through security. If you’re traveling by boat or by train, however, feel free to live your life and fill your bag however you desire.

BEEKMAN 1802 MILK PROBIOTIC SKINCARE STARTER KIT beekman1802.com $59 The Amazing Race winners Josh Kilmer-Purcell and Dr. Brent Ridge created the lifestyle and skincare brand Beekman 1802 which quickly became the world’s biggest goat-milk skincare line. If you want gentle yet effective products to bring on the road with you, opt for their Milk Probiotic Skincare Starter Kit, which comes in an adorable cosmetic bag featuring four travel-sized versions of Beekman 1802 probiotic skincare star products including Milk Wash exfoliating jelly cleanser, Milk Drops probiotic ceramide serum, Dewy Eyed illuminating eye serum and a Bloom Cream probiotic moisturizer as well.

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

EMBRYOLISSE EMBRYOLISSE LAIT-CRÈME CONCENTRÉ us.embryolisse.com $28 This fabulous daily face and body cream has been a bestseller for Embryolisse since 1950, optimal for all skin types including the most sensitive skin. This cream is a true all-in-one and cleanses, hydrates, nourishes, and protects the face as well as the body with simple ingredients: shea butter, beeswax, soy proteins, and aloe vera. This Lait-Crème Concentré was created by a dermatologist from a Parisian hospital that specialized in skin pathologies. It gained the attention of the masses quickly and soon became a “cult favorite” appearing backstage at fashion shows and on film and television sets around the world. The new travel size cream tucks easily into a carry-on or even in your pocket if you need some moisture on the plane.

GLOWOASIS GLOW TO GO Glowoasis.com $42 Glowoasis, a vegan probiotic skincare line created by Vera Oh and Joseph Choi, is inspired by harnessing the spirit of “your natural-born glow.” Their products are non-GMO, 100% vegan, and safe for all skin types. Choose their“glow to go”for an introduction to the line or pack it in your suitcase to maximize pampering on your weekend getaway. This convenient travel kit contains a complete skincare routine using vegan probiotics giving you “more clean and effective ingredients to reveal glowing skin every day.” Featured products include their cloudcleanse, powderporefect, milkdew, glowshot, glowburst, and makeupmelt (perfect to wipe off the weekend guyliner).

JACK BLACK SKIN SAVIORS Getjackblack.com $35 Skin Saviors, Jack Black’s full skincare regimen comes in TSA-approved sizes to cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize, and protect. Leave your hefty dopp kit at home with this high-quality array of premium Jack Black products, including the Pure Clean Daily Facial Cleanser, Face Buff Energizing Scrub, Double-Duty Face Moisturizer, and Intense Therapy Lip Balm SPF 25. Every Jack Black product is dermatologist tested, paraben free, cruelty free, and free of any harsh sulfates. If this is your introduction to the Jack Black line, you’re in for a real treat, save the scrub for every other day, but feel free to use each of the other products each day of your trip! If you want to add something a little extra to the routine, pick up their Nighttime BAK-up, a new, gentle, plant-based alternative to retinol.

METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

KIEHL’S FACIAL FUEL ENERGIZING FACE WASH & FACIAL FUEL ENERGIZING MOISTURIZER FOR MEN

BODY

HEALTH

Kiehls.com $10/$28 There have been many times when we’ve stopped at the Kiehl’s counter to pick up a travel-sized cleanser, moisturizer, or lotion. The original Kiehl’s apothecary opened on the corner of 13th Street and 3rd Avenue in NYC back in 1851 and has been delivering high quality products ever since. Facial Fuel Energizing Face Wash, made with caffeine, menthol, and vitamin E will not only leave you feeling refreshed but also awake. The face moisturizer for men is a revitalizing option for vacations and business trips alike. Formulated with chestnut extract and soy, this topnotch moisturizer is infused with vitamins C and E. If you have a little extra room in your carry-on the Creme de Corps is a rich, non-greasy body lotion with cocoa butter and beta-carotene that’s a perfect antidote to combat any dryness you’ll encounter in the air or on the road.

LEONOR GREYL PREMIUM LUXURY TRAVEL KIT Leonorgreyl-usa.com $52-$72 Hotel shampoos and conditioners, while convenient, are often a mixed bag. And those who still have a full head of hair best take every measure to take care of it. Leonor Greyl offers a variety of Premium and Luxury travel kits for several different hair concerns. Their Premium Luxury Travel Kit for Damaged Hair (pictured) retails at $72 and includes everything you need to protect your gorgeous hair on the go. If you have dry, thick/ wavy hair, need a bit more volume, or colored hair, there are additional travel kit options for $52 or $62. Each travel bag contains L’Huile de Leonor Greyl, their signature pre-shampoo treatment containing a multi-purpose blend of botanical oils that nourish, protect, and detangle. Be sure to pack this if you plan on swimming in the ocean or a chlorinated pool!

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

NATURA HOMEM GROOMING SET naturabrasil.com $49 You never know if an unexpected Zoom might come up while you’re on the go, so don’t forget your razor and quality shaving supplies. The Homem Grooming Set is a great option to pack neatly into your carry-on. The set includes Natura Shaving Cream, a creamy formula that hydrates for up to eight hours after your shave as well as Natura Homem Aftershave Balm and Natura Homem Beard Oil Copaiba. The aftershave balm is alcohol-free and soothes rather than triggers the skin, leaving it softer and smoother than others. The beard oil has a light, gentle texture, keeping the strands of the beard aligned. Continue to put your best foot forward, even if you’re only heading down to grab a Pina Colada by the pool. These three Natura products come in an eco-friendly gift box with illustrations inspired by tropical and subtropical plants by Brazilian artist William Santiago. Everything about this grooming set screams weekend getaway.

PAYOT PARIS HEALTHY GLOW SERUM $38 This serum, chock full of highly concentrated vitamin C and antioxidant superfruits, will not only wake you up with an energetic fragrance, but will do the heavy lifting to boost the radiance of dull, tired-looking skin. Stimulate cell renewal and look like a million bucks while on the road. This serum is perfect for all skin types and comes in a pump bottle with 30ml so it’s perfect to bring on the airplane. PAYOT has offered extraordinary skin and body care products for over 100 years. Take control of your skin with this excellent serum that will keep you awake and alert. Your skin will radiate for all of those selfies on the road. #vacationglow

METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

BODY

HEALTH

NATURABISSÉ DIAMOND COCOON COLLECTION Naturabisse.com NaturaBissé was started by Ricardo Fisas in Barcelona back in 1979. If you’re leaning into a luxury vacation without any TSArestrictions the Diamond Cocoon Collection is the optimal choice. Diamond Cocoon Collection was born out of a deep concern to minimize the appearance of the signs of aging while empowering you (yes, you) to shine. The collection features some of the most advanced ingredients on the beauty market, including OxySkin, OxySkin-HEV, Alteromonas Fermented Extract, Actibiome Complex, and PolyShield. Diamond Cocoon Daily Cleanse ($76) is a creamy comfort cleanser that cleanses, preserves, and softens the skin. Diamond Cocoon Hydrating Essence ($77) is the perfect pairing to their cleanser, working to balance and freshen the skin while providing intense hydration that lasts up to 72 hours. Pamper yourself with the ultimate moisturizer, Diamond Cocoon Ultra Rich Cream ($325), a prebiotic moisturizer designed to preserve youthful-looking complexion. Apply generously to seal and retain the skin’s water while giving it the resilience it needs to look vibrant and glowing. You deserve the best, so why not spoil yourself?

Reuzel.com $11.85 Climb into a figurative barber chair every time you lather a bit of Reuzel into your hair or beard. Leen and Bertus created not only a barbershop, but a haven and trusted line of products experts and novices are continually drawn to. Their Degrease Travel Kit, not just a travel kit but an outstanding introduction to this fab product line, features Reuzel Daily Shampoo, Reuzel Scrub Shampoo, and Reuzel Daily Conditioner. Reuzel Daily Shampoo is a great T4 tonic blend of witch hazel, nettle leaf, rosemary and horsetail root extracts. The Reuzel Scrub Shampoo includes a T4 tonic blend with natural cornstarch to not only break up grease but exfoliate the scalp (this works great on the skin as well). The Reuzel Daily Conditioner is the perfect finishing touch, with nettle leaf, rosemary and horsetail root extracts and that remarkable T4 tonic blend to thicken and shine. Rinse, apply, indulge, and repeat with the next product in this glorious three-step process to make your hair look, feel, and even smell great.

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

Any health, wellness, medical, or cosmetic claims contained in this feature should be verified with the product provider and your health professional.

PAGES 40-44: MODELS PHOTOS BY SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

REUZEL DEGREASE TRAVEL KIT

BY JAMES PATRICK

HISTORICALLY LOW MORTGAGE RATES, NEW TELECOMMUTING FLEXIBILITY, and the reality

of shelter-in-place’s “cabin fever” have many considering the purchase of a vacation property. Over the past year, many have seriously considered taking the leap and buying their own mountain getaway or ocean condo retreat. A vacation home is a luxury to enjoy now and may also be a good investment as property values rise. Why not have some fun this spring and plan a house hunting trip to your favorite destination? Or browse properties online from the comfort of your couch through Realtor.com or Zillow.com. It can’t hurt to look and dream, right?

Before you start shopping for your refuge, some important factors to consider:

THIS PAGE: PHOTO BY SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

• How accessible is this retreat and how often will you realistically enjoy it? Is this a two-hour Friday afternoon commute? Or a ten-hour trek with two connecting flights? • How much can you afford monthly? Don’t forget to add taxes, insurance, association dues, utilities, and property maintenance. • Will you need to rent the property when not in use? If so, what’s the going rate in the area for a property that size? What’s the seasonal occupancy rate? What’s the cost for property management?

There is a distinction between a vacation home and rental property that buyers should clearly understand because they are financed differently by the banks. And they are treated differently for mortgage interest tax deductions by the IRS, so please check with your tax planner.

Vacation Home Loans A true vacation home is typically considered a secondary residence and must be at least 50 miles away from your primary home. It’s intended primarily for your use. The rates are similar to that of financing a primary residence with some banks charging a slightly higher interest rate of .25%. Lenders may require a higher credit score as well as a larger down payment for vacation homes. For example, a primary residence allows for down payments as low as 3%. But for a vacation home, you may need 10 – 20%. With these types of loans, you would need to show income that can support both your primary residence and vacation property. No rental income would be included to qualify.

Other Financing Options Don’t have the down payment but do have equity in your primary residence? A 30-year cash-out refinance may be the way to go. Pull the equity from your primary residence and pay cash for your vacation property. With this option, you’ll refinance your first mortgage loan at today’s rates and add on to the loan the amount needed for your vacation home purchase. Is your first mortgage locked in at such a low rate that you don’t want to touch it? Another option for you is a home equity loan (typically fixed-rate) or home equity line of credit (typically variable rate). These loans are appealing for their quick processing time and low closing costs. But they are often financed over a shorter 15-year period, which can make payments higher. A third option may be to purchase the property with other family members or friends. Going in with four parties with each sharing a 25% ownership, could avoid the need for a bank loan altogether. Just be sure to develop a written ownership agreement before making the purchase. This will spell out who may use the property and when, how expenses will be shared and how the sale of one party’s share would work.

FINANCE

GOT CABIN FEVER? BUY A CABIN

the expense of your getaway!) But in either case, with mortgage rates below 4%, now may be a good time to lock in a fixed rate on your vacation property.

CULTURE

PURCHASING A VACATION HOME

Happy Hunting A home away from home can offer priceless memories, a needed sanctuary where you can unplug and de-stress from life in the city, a long-term investment or even a place for you to spend your golden years. Just do your homework and know all the numbers before writing an offer.

Rental/Investment Property Loans

Stay Money Wise

If you do plan to rent out your vacation home, it’ll be classified as an investment/rental property and will fall under other underwriting guidelines and pricing. You may expect to pay a slightly higher interest rate of 0.50% to 0.75%. You’ll likely need to put at least 20% down and have a solid credit score. Your lender will also request a comparable rent schedule included with your appraisal. The good news is that your lender will consider a portion of the anticipated rent as income to qualify you for the loan. (Others will help pay for

If you missed past personal finance features, which include Budgeting and Credit Scores, you can find them online at www. metrosource.com. ■

This information is intended to provide general guidance. We encourage you to consult your financial advisor and tax planner to review your individual situation before making any significant financial decisions. METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

THE 2021 TRAVEL BUCKET LIST EIGHT INTERNATIONAL DESTINATIONS WE’LL BE READY TO CHECK OUT BY JEFFREY JAMES KEYES

CABIN FEVER GETTING YOU DOWN? Once you get both vaccine doses it’s time to book

your first post-pandemic adventure. Pull out your passport and make sure it’s up to date, renew your Global Entry, TSA Pre Check, and access passes to your favorite lounges because travel is going to come back with a bang. We thought long and hard about our bucket list for 2021 and leaned into eight international destinations we’re ready to check out. We’ll meet you on the road in a variety of destinations including European capitals, the Costa Rican jungle, and Australian wine country. Travel is back, have you packed your carry-on?

BATH Did you binge the Netflix series Bridgerton earlier this year? In addition to RegéJean Page and Phoebe Dynevor, the breakout star of the series is Bath, the breathtaking city in the county of Somerset, England. Located in the heart of the Avon Valley and surrounded by limestone hills near the Cotswolds and the only UK city with the formal UNESCO designation. No stranger to film and television, Bath is a stunning location named after its Roman-built baths. Filmmakers and production companies flock to the city’s stunning Georgian architecture and surrounding manor homes each year. Additional projects that have been filmed in Bath include Sherlock, The Duchess, Vanity Fair, and even parts of the film version of Les Misérables. Soak in 2,000 years of history on a tour of the Roman Baths, set to reopen in May of 2021. Take in the Sacred Spring, Roman Temple, Roman Bath House as well as interesting finds from the Roman Bath. Then head around the corner and check into Thermae Bath Spa, where you can enjoy Britain’s only natural thermal waters. Spend an afternoon at The New Royal Bath, a fusion of glass, stone, light, and water. Jane Austen is from Bath, and you can immerse yourself in everything Austen at the Jane Austen Center, offering a snapshot of what it was like to live in the Regency times. Have a little extra time? Stonehenge, the World Heritage Site is a little under an hour away. Highclere Castle, the backdrop for the hit series Downton Abbey is about an hour and 20 minutes away. Who knows, you might just run into the Dowager on your excursion.

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

(above) Tiger’s Nest (left) Thimpu Tshechus Photos courtesy of Courtesy of The Kingdom of Bhutan

Roman Baths torchlit summer evenings photos courtesy of Visit Bath

BHUTAN Known for its ancient temples and mountainous fortresses, the “Land of the Thunder Dragon’’ is famously recognized as one of the happiest places in the world. The small once isolated mountainous country just south of Nepal offers lush, breathtaking environments and a unique culture rich in diversity. Bhutan is considered the “last true illusion of Shangri-La’’ for its’ stunning landscape and gorgeous views of the soaring Himalayan peaks, glacial valleys, and evergreen forests. Take in the capital city of Thimphu, the picturesque Taktsang Monastery, considered “Tiger’s Nest” in Paro, and Punakha, picturesque rice farming valley. Construction of the enormous Buddha Dordenma, a bronze Buddha statue overlooking the capital, is definitely worth a visit. Check into one or all of the five Amankora lodges surrounded by forests and orchards in Paro, Thimphu, Gangtey, Bumthang, or Punakha where you can tailor a “koro” journey of discovery through the world’s last Buddhist kingdom and embark on excursions like a hike to the Dodedrak Village, ascend from Amankora Paro to Tiger’s Nest, and embark in a Shashila hike to take in the wonders of the Phobjikha Valley - or just relax and take in Bhutanese oil massages and candlelit stone baths back at the resort. Rumor has it visitors to the Buddha are filled with happiness and able to carry this joy in their aura for months down the line. Who doesn’t need a little extra joy? METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

BUENOS AIRES As famous for its culture and glamour as it is for its political unrest, Buenos Aires is sometimes called the “Paris of South America.” Tango, a sultry dance that originated in Argentina in the 1800s has been elevated from lower-class entertainment to high-end tradition. Four neighborhoods everyone must explore in Buenos Aires are: San Telmo, Palermo Viejo, Puerto Madero, and Recoleta. If you’re pressed for time, start by paying homage to Eva Peron at the Museo Evita, La Recoleta, and the Casa Rosada where you can recreate the famous balcony scene. Glimpses of antiquity and history can be found throughout Buenos Aires. Take in neo-renaissance and neoclassical inspired sites like the Colón Theatre and the National Congress building, to magnificent art-deco landmarks like the tall Kavanagh Building, and The Woman’s Bridge, designed by Santiago Calatrava. El Zanjón de Granados, a 200-yearold mansion and historical landmark that led archaeologists to discover an ancient ravine as well as the earliest settlements in Argentina. A trip to the exotic and indulgent city isn’t complete without a tango performance. Tango

Arenal Volcano Tabacón hot springs Photo courtesy of Costa Rican Tourism Institute

APRIL/MAY 2021

Porteno, located in a converted Metro Goldwyn Mayer movie theater, is one of the best shows in town. Be sure to bring your camera and get ready for the performance of a lifetime. Need to unplug and clear your head? Head to the Palermo Woods and take a healing stroll through 1,000 species of roses in the Rose Garden Walk (Paseo del Rosedal). If you’re hungry for an add-on adventure, VACAYA is hosting the first allLGBT+ first ship charter to Antarctica on a ten-day adventure. Travelers on the cruise get to spend a night in Buenos Aires to live their “Evita fantasy” before flying to Ushuaia to board the cruise on December 6. Is Antarctica also on your bucket list? Check a few boxes off of your list with this amazing combination vacation.

COSTA RICA Costa Rica, just a quick flight from the States, is a destination known for tropical beaches, lush jungles, extraordinary adventures, yoga retreats, and luxury accommodations. Find some balance and your inner peace in Costa Rica, a country where you can walk on the white and black sand beaches on the Caribbean Sea or Pacific Ocean and take in the wealth of marine ecosystems playing in the surf. The Arenal VolMETROSOURCE.COM

The flea market in San Telmo Photo by Gary Yim

cano, considered by many to be the “quintessential Costa Rica backdrop,” towers over the town of La Fortuna, home to some of the most steamy and relaxing hot springs in Latin America. Take in the majestic 5,400-foot Arenal Volcano from the best spa treatment in Costa Rica: the natural heated waters in the nearby Tabacón Hot Springs. Want to get up above the canopy? Soar through the clouds in Monteverde, Costa Rica, the birthplace of the world’s first recreational zipline course, and home to the most famous cloud forest on Earth. Zipline the length of the forest canopy while taking in a plethora of wildlife and over 2,000 plant species. Keep an eye out for the elusive resplendent quetzal, considered one of the world’s most beautiful (and rare) birds. Pavones, located along Costa Rica’s southern Pacific coast, offers even more adventures with the longest left-hand wave in the world. Waves span over half a mile long, creating a desirable ride for surfers and bodyboarding. Take in the glory of the local rainforest as you ride a wave and soak in the sun. There are more thrills to be had back on land where you can take majestic rainforests like Manuel Antonio National Park and Cahuita National Park and go on foot and explore many of the country’s volcanoes including Poás Volcano where hikers can feel the rumble and see the smoke rising as they ascend to the top. Costa Rica is infamous for yogis and there are plenty of yoga retreat options to choose from, including Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort, Samasati Yoga & Wellness Center, and the luxurious Anamaya Resort and Retreat Center. Get your vinyasa flow in, then head out on an adventure. The sky’s the limit in Costa Rica!

Dubrovnik Croatia Photo by Igor Brautovic

DUBROVNIK, CROATIA Dubrovnik considered the “Pearl of the Adriatic” was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979. Game of Thrones fans recognize the city as the “Kings Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms,” with its stunning Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance churches, fountains, and palaces. The city also lent its unique backdrop to other notable films such as Star Wars the Last Jedi, Robin Hood and the television series Emerald City. What is it that makes the city so perfect for filming as well as Instagram? Take a walk along the city walls, ancient fortifications constructed in the 13th, 14th, and 15th centuries and you’ll be transported back in time. The main entrance to the city walls is situated in Placa by the Inner Pile Gate between the western section of the city wall and St. Saviour Church. Rector’s Palace, Revelin Fort, and the Homeland War Museum should be high on your bucket list, as well as the glorious Onofrio’s Great Fountain, which has been functioning since it’s construction in 1438. Visitors to the city should definitely plan on exploring the Stradun and Dubrovnik Old Town, ride the Dubrovnik Cable Car, and take a tour of Fort Lovrijenac. If you have a little extra time, venture out to Lokrum and Lopud Islands. Looking to get further out on the water? Katarina Line recently announced an upcoming 7-night, one-way cruise between Split and Dubrovnik. The trip, called “One-Way Wonder,” includes a cruise around Dubrovnik’s city walls and swimming in a secluded cove within the Elaphiti Islands. The Two Bad Tourists bloggers are also hosting a 7-day sailing adventure from Dubrovnik to Split on August 14th to 21st including stops at Hvar and the famous island of Vis.

Cape Town Photo courtesy of South African Tourism

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

Table Mountain reaches up toward the sky as locals and tourists alike indulge in culture, adventure and culinary arts in Cape Town. This port city on the southwestern coast of South Africa is one of the magical destinations where you can never run out of things to do. Morning hikes at Table Mountain, named for its unique flat-top, offer extraordinary views of both Cape Town and ocean. The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is the most time efficient way to ascend the mountain. Sunseekers can flock to numerous beaches, including Sandy Beach, Clifton Beach (Clifton 3rd is the popular gay-friendly beach in the area), Muizenberg Beach, and Boulders Beach where you can get up close and personal with the growing colony of African Penguins relaxing at the shore. The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront (V&A), a busy 19th century harbor offers more views, Two Oceans Aquarium, shopping, top notch restaurants, and the port that can take you to Robben Island. Robben Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Nelson Mandela served 18 of his 27 years in imprisonment before becoming President of South Africa. There are plenty of options for chic accommodations in and around town, including the Twelve Apostles Hotel, with stunning views of the Pacific and the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range, the ultra-lux fivestar The Silo Hotel, and The Rockefeller, a brand-new avant-garde property set in the sprawling Cape Town metropolis. There are plenty of daytrip options for nature, and R&R including whale watching in Hermanus, wine tasting in Franschhoek and Stellenbosch (did someone say Pinotage?), and the romantic Cape of Good Hope. Looking to pack up and work remotely? Cape Town is an exceptional place to work remotely. Digital Nomads are enticed by the ocean and adventure and stay for the food, wine, and cultural scene. Why not pack up and stay awhile? METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA Melbourne, the coastal capital of the southeastern Australian state of Victoria, is infamous as not only the cultural capital of Australia but one of the most gay-friendly cities in the world. Take in the European vibes of the city with beautiful architecture, colorful streets, cozy cafes, and nightlife to write home about. Melbourne features one of the highest densities of commercial art galleries in the world, boasting more than 130 galleries and museums including Museum Victoria, National Gallery of Victoria, Buxton Contemporary, and the Heide Museum of Modern Art. There’s no shortage of gay friendly neighborhoods such as Carleton, Fitzroy, and St. Kilda. Indulge in a night to remember at hotspots like Sircuit Bar, The Laird Hotel, and the Railway Hotel. Indulge in Melbourne’s hive of bustling creative laneways, stroll through the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, take a ride on the massive Melbourne Star Observation Wheel, and gaze at eclectic art and design at Lamington Drive. Is it wine o’clock? Be sure to head to the Pinot Coast, “where the vines meet the sea.”The 460 miles of shoreline includes three main wine regions: Geelong & The Bellaire, Mornington Peninsula, and Gippsland. If you’re looking to have your own Australian Sideways adventure, give yourself a week to discover what the locals call “Pinot Paradise.” Sample fresh seafood and check out the colorful Brighton Beach bathing boxes at Port Phillip Bay, join one (or several) wine tours with tastings at renowned wineries like Montalto, Pt. Leo Estate, Moorooduc Estate, Dirty Three Wines, Purple Hen, and Waratah Hills. Be sure to order a case or two so you can keep the tour going when you inevitably make it back home.

Björn Olin imagebank.sweden.se

STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN There’s nothing like Stockholm, the capital of not only Sweden but the entire Scandinavian region. The city is situated on fourteen islands by the Stockholm archipelago interconnected by fifty-seven bridges and boasts a 750-year history bursting with cultural effervescence. It’s Sweden’s most populous city as well as its cultural, financial, political and media center. The LGBT+ community has flocked to the pristine European capital before the world caught on with Stieg Larsson’s The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Mälarpaviljongen, the summer-

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

(above) Pinot Coast Photo courtesy of Wine Victoria (left) Section 8, Tattersalls Lane Melbourne

only cafe/bar to see and be seen is an absolute must, as is a trip to Fotografiska, The Vasa Museum, Millesgården, Skansen, and the newly renovated National Museum. The Grand Hotel in Stockholm, ranking among the leading hotels of the world, offers exquisite views of the Royal Palace and scenic harbor, while the intimate boutique Villa Dagmar, Hotel Skeppsholmen, and the five-star Hotel at Six offer comfortable accommodations for a good night’s rest. Drottningholm Palace, just a short boat ride away, is the permanent residence of the Swedish royal family and offers visitors a stunning excursion to Sweden’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. There’s no shortage of traces and signs of famous Swedes throughout Stockholm: Greta Garbo, Ingmar Bergman, August Strindberg, ABBA, and Alfred Nobel. Stockholm Pride festival draws half a million attendees each year with stars like Robyn, Margaret Cho, and Röyksopp on the main stage while the Stockholm Fringe Festival (STOFF), founded in 2009, brings a myriad of artists to Strindberg’s hometown each year. Take some time to get out and explore the picturesque Archipelago, made of over 24,000 islands and islets. Round your trip to Stockholm with a relaxing day trip to Artipelag, a contemporary cultural center with phenomenal exhibitions, walking paths, and waterside dining.

BY MEGAN VENZIN APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS … AND WE ALL KNOW THOSE ARE FAR TOO FABULOUS TO PASS UP. Step

sy of

urte tos co

pho

Dr. Cla

NY SCOPE

EYES ON THIS

NEW YORK

FEAST YOUR

outside. Breathe it in. As spring comes to a crescendo, New York becomes home to an array of high concept art exhibitions, design-focused events, and new destinations, all fit to satisfy the soul. Mulling over Memorial Day plans? Spend the day at the city’s first floating park or book an overnight stay at Rockaway Beach’s hottest new accommodations. Feeling peckish? We’ve got some savory suggestions that will knock your socks off. It is time to whet your appetite for adventure, and your actual appetite, for that matter!

VISIT NEW YORK CITY’S FIRST HOKKAIDO RESTAURANT DR. CLARK 104 Bayard St., New York, NY 10013 Open Daily, Kotatsu tables by reservation only Chilly weather is no problem at Dr. Clark where heated kotatsu tables offer a cozy reprieve from unpredictable spring weather. Available for parties of two to six people, this outdoor dining experience is unlike any other in NYC. Head to Chinatown, slip off your shoes and step into your own private cove where you can indulge in cuts of sashimi, homemade udon noodles and sizzling marinated lamb prepared on the jingisukan tabletop grill. If you would rather kick it indoors, there’s space inside the chic eatery to dine, and before too long, sing a little karaoke, too. Reserve your table at https://www.drclarkhouse.com METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

Important Facts About DOVATO

This is only a brief summary of important information about DOVATO and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and treatment. What is the most important information I should know about DOVATO? If you have both human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, DOVATO can cause serious side effects, including: • Resistant HBV infection. Your healthcare provider will test you for HBV infection before you start treatment with DOVATO. If you have HIV-1 and hepatitis B, the hepatitis B virus can change (mutate) during your treatment with DOVATO and become harder to treat (resistant). It is not known if DOVATO is safe and effective in people who have HIV-1 and HBV infection. • Worsening of HBV infection. If you have HIV-1 and HBV infection, your HBV may get worse (flare-up) if you stop taking DOVATO. A “flare-up” is when your HBV infection suddenly returns in a worse way than before. Worsening liver disease can be serious and may lead to death. ° Do not run out of DOVATO. Refill your prescription or talk to your healthcare provider before your DOVATO is all gone. ° Do not stop DOVATO without first talking to your healthcare provider. If you stop taking DOVATO, your healthcare provider will need to check your health often and do blood tests regularly for several months to check your liver. What is DOVATO? DOVATO is a prescription medicine that is used without other HIV-1 medicines to treat human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) infection in adults: who have not received HIV-1 medicines in the past, or to replace their current HIV-1 medicines when their healthcare provider determines that they meet certain requirements. HIV-1 is the virus that causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). It is not known if DOVATO is safe and effective in children. Who should not take DOVATO? Do not take DOVATO if you: • have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine that contains dolutegravir or lamivudine. • take dofetilide. What should I tell my healthcare provider before using DOVATO? Tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you: • have or have had liver problems, including hepatitis B or C infection. • have kidney problems. • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. One of the medicines in DOVATO (dolutegravir) may harm your unborn baby. ° Your healthcare provider may prescribe a different medicine than DOVATO if you are planning to become pregnant or if pregnancy is confirmed during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. ° If you can become pregnant, your healthcare provider will perform a pregnancy test before you start treatment with DOVATO. ° If you can become pregnant, you should consistently use effective birth control (contraception) during treatment with DOVATO. ° Tell your healthcare provider right away if you are planning to become pregnant, you become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant during treatment with DOVATO. • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed if you take DOVATO. ° You should not breastfeed if you have HIV-1 because of the risk of passing HIV-1 to your baby. ° One of the medicines in DOVATO (lamivudine) passes into your breastmilk. ° Talk with your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby. ©2020 ViiV Healthcare or licensor. DLLADVT200008 August 2020 Produced in USA.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medicines interact with DOVATO. Keep a list of your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. • You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a list of medicines that interact with DOVATO. • Do not start taking a new medicine without telling your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can tell you if it is safe to take DOVATO with other medicines. What are possible side effects of DOVATO? DOVATO can cause serious side effects, including: • Those in the “What is the most important information I should know about DOVATO?” section. • Allergic reactions. Call your healthcare provider right away if you develop a rash with DOVATO. Stop taking DOVATO and get medical help right away if you develop a rash with any of the following signs or symptoms: fever; generally ill feeling; tiredness; muscle or joint aches; blisters or sores in mouth; blisters or peeling of the skin; redness or swelling of the eyes; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue; problems breathing. • Liver problems. People with a history of hepatitis B or C virus may have an increased risk of developing new or worsening changes in certain liver tests during treatment with DOVATO. Liver problems, including liver failure, have also happened in people without a history of liver disease or other risk factors. Your healthcare provider may do blood tests to check your liver. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following signs or symptoms of liver problems: your skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow (jaundice); dark or “tea-colored” urine; light-colored stools (bowel movements); nausea or vomiting; loss of appetite; and/or pain, aching, or tenderness on the right side of your stomach area. • Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis). Lactic acidosis is a serious medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following symptoms that could be signs of lactic acidosis: feel very weak or tired; unusual (not normal) muscle pain; trouble breathing; stomach pain with nausea and vomiting; feel cold, especially in your arms and legs; feel dizzy or lightheaded; and/or a fast or irregular heartbeat. • Lactic acidosis can also lead to severe liver problems, which can lead to death. Your liver may become large (hepatomegaly) and you may develop fat in your liver (steatosis). Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the signs or symptoms of liver problems which are listed above under “Liver problems.” You may be more likely to get lactic acidosis or severe liver problems if you are female or very overweight (obese). • Changes in your immune system (Immune Reconstitution Syndrome) can happen when you start taking HIV-1 medicines. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that have been hidden in your body for a long time. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you start having new symptoms after you start taking DOVATO. • The most common side effects of DOVATO include: headache; nausea; diarrhea; trouble sleeping; tiredness; and anxiety. These are not all the possible side effects of DOVATO. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

SO MUCH GOES INTO WHO I AM HIV MEDICINE IS ONE PART OF IT. Why could DOVATO be right for you? DOVATO is proven to help control HIV with just 2 medicines in 1 pill. That means fewer medicines* in your body while taking DOVATO. It’s proven as effective as an HIV treatment with 3 or 4 medicines. Learn more about fewer medicines at DOVATO.com DOVATO is a complete prescription regimen to treat HIV-1 in adults who have not received HIV-1 medicines in the past or to replace their current HIV-1 medicines when their doctor determines they meet certain requirements. Results may vary. *As compared with 3- or 4-drug regimens.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Where can I find more information? • Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist. • Go to DOVATO.com or call 1-877-844-8872, where you can also get FDA-approved labeling. August 2020 DVT:4PIL Trademark is owned by or licensed to the ViiV Healthcare group of companies.

New to treatment? Considering a switch?

Ask your doctor about DOVATO.

EXPLORE THE ART-LINED PATHWAYS OF LITTLE ISLAND PIER55 IN HUDSON RIVER PARK @ West 13th Street, New York, NY 10014 Opening this Spring After a quiet winter huddled indoors Little Island is sure to be a prime destination for the city’s art lovers. The brand new “floating park,” located on the water in Hudson River Park, is not only an architectural wonder but a creative haven too. The project’s first artists in residency will bring their crafts to the amphitheater and the streets. Names like choreographer and tap dancer, Ayodel Casele, playwright and director, Tina Landau, and actor Michael McElroy are just a few names who are set to bring the waterside attraction to life with plenty of song, movement, and soul. Plan your visit at https://littleisland.org Little Island

NEW YORK

NY SCOPE

photo courtesy of

CHOW DOWN AT BRISKET KING NYC 2021 PIG BEACH, BROOKLYN 480 Union St., Brooklyn, NY 11231 April 21st BBQ lovers unite! Brisket King returns for their 9th edition, featuring 15 professional chefs and pit masters who are facing off to give the hungry folks of NYC all the brisket they can handle. Ticket holders can wash down smoky bites with a wide variety of beers, ciders, and craft cocktails, all carefully selected to elevate this one-of-a-kind food festival. Taking place outdoors (rain or shine) in Brooklyn’s epic Gowanus neighborhood, Staten Island’s Richie Holmes of Juicy Lucy BBQ will be back to defend his winner’s title when he goes head-to-head with renowned BBQ titans such as Phil Wingo of Porkmafia (Chicago, IL), Rob Cho of KimchiSmoke (Westwood, NJ), Kevin Roth of La Estacion (Fajardo, Puerto Rico), and many more. A portion of the proceeds from Food Karma Project’s ticket sales will go to support the Jeff Michner Foundation. Work up an appetite and grab tickets at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/foodkarmanyc

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

lash

rnoz/Unsp

rael Albo

Is photo by

BE DAZZLED BY GEOMETRIC PROPERTIES ARTECHOUSE® 439 W 15th Street New York, NY 10011 On view through September 6th Underneath Chelsea Market lies a gateway to a colorful world of sacred fractals. ARTECHOUSE’s newest immersive audio-visual installation Geometric Properties features work from Amsterdam-based artist, Julius Horsthuis. Drawing inspiration from nature and math, Geometric Properties takes guests on a multi-sensory journey into the ancient past and offers a glimpse into a beautiful future. “In a time where disease and division characterize our daily reality, I want to show a different existence,” Horsthuis offers. “An eternal reality of healing and harmony. Not in some new-age kind of way, or with another utopic vision detached from humanity, but just by being in awe of endless iterations and multiple dimensions. This might be the perfect time for us to be in awe – to quiet our self-interest and make us realize we’re part of a larger whole.”Tap into inspiration and reserve your timed entry ticket at https://www.artechouse.com/nyc

HOUSE

is/ARTEC

s Horsthu

Juliu photos by

ENGAGE WITH POLITICAL ART AT DISSOLUTION LESLIE-LOHMAN MUSEUM OF ART

porcelain

figurine,

Catalin d plastic a Schliebener Sata figures, p aper, ligh nic Panic series, M tbox, vari able dim onster Inc. (Sulle y) ensions. Courtesy , 2019, the artist.

articulate

26 Wooster St. New York, NY 10013 On view through May 25th By embracing the notion of negation, Leslie Lohman’s new shining stars have created art that tears down traditional social and political structures and unveils alternate realities and powerful new possibilities. Presented in two parts, “DISSOLUTION” features a variety of works from members of the Museum’s fellowship program, which was designed to support and lift queer artists. The exhibit’s title is inspired by Arthur Frank’s book, “The Wounded Storyteller” in which the author states “Chaos stories show how quickly the props that other stories depend on can be kicked away.” Living in an age when uncertainty, oppression and darkness seem to reign supreme, this thoughtful presentation offers a lighter dose of hope, a sense of humor and a much-needed escape. Research your advanced entry tickets at https://www.leslielohman.org/exhibitions METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

NEW YORK

NY SCOPE

Shuzo Azuchi Gulliv

ENTER THE WORLD OF SHUZO AZUCHI GULLIVER’S CINEMATIC ILLUMINATION MoMA 11 West 53rd St. New York, NY On view in-person and virtually through April 18th MoMA gives in-person visitors to step into the Kravis Studio and flash back to the 1960s with this riveting 360-degree audio-visual installation from Japanese visionary and filmmaker, Shuzo Azuchi Gulliver. Cinematic Illumination is a boundary breaking, multidisciplinary that uses slide projectors and frame-by-frame depictions that explore topics like experimental film and the intersection of art and technology in hot spots like Tokyo’s pulsing nightlife district - the very locale that inspired the artist to create several decades ago. The installation is also being presented online as part of MoMA’s Virtual Views series. For a unique multi-sensory experience, pop on the Gulliver-inspired playlist and vibe out. Reserve your advance timed ticket entry or experience online at https://www.moma.org

er. Cinematic Illumin ation. 1968–69. 1,3 disco ball, and sou 50 black-and-whit nd, 114:45 min., loo e slides, 108 color gels, ped. The Museum of Modern Art, Ne w York

n, 2016 tanic Garde Brooklyn Bo tesy of the artist n, de ar G ur ur ris Webb O ent print Co Rebecca Nor romogenic developm Ch

SEE SNAPS OF BROOKLYN IN “THE CITY WITHIN” THE MUSEUM OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK 1220 Fifth Ave. at 103rd St. On view through April 18th Prior to becoming part of NYC in 1898, Brooklyn was considered the fourth largest city in America. Its legacy as a heavily populated melting pot prevails, and its cultural flair and picturesque parks alike are highlighted in this stunning collection of photographs captured by Alex Webb and Rebecca Norris Webb. Through 30 unique images, viewers will come to know all about the city’s most populous borough - from its friendly faces to its inviting green spaces. For an alternate viewing experience at home, check out “New York Responds”, a look at the resilience and perseverance of native New Yorker’s during the first six months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Grab tickets or view online at https://www.mcny.org/exhibitions

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

GET INSPIRED AT NYCXDESIGN: DESIGN DAYS

esign

sy of NYCxD

photo courte

Various Locations and Online May 13th - 18th It doesn’t matter if you are an interior designer, architect, or landscape visionary - NYCxDESIGN is back to celebrate creatives from across the industry. In 2021, a series of Design Days featuring virtual events, limited tours, small gatherings, and outdoor events will bring together New York’s ever-talented community of designers, and their biggest fans. In addition to scheduled programming, NYCxDESIGN will also unveil Design Pavilion’s Open to the Sky, a city-spanning installation of small, custom built structures inspired by messages of hope and resilience. Learn more at https://www.plinthandchintz.com/event/nycxdesign

PLAN A POSH BEACH DAY THE ROCKAWAY HOTEL 108-10 Rockaway Beach Dr. Rockaway Beach, NY 11694 Located just steps away from sandy shores, The Rockaway Hotel is the perfect escape for New Yorkers seeking a stylish, spring retreat. The boutique accommodations offer ocean views and access to sterling amenities which helped the space land a nomination for a “World’s Best Award” from Travel + Leisure. “The Rockaway Hotel is a fullservice, lifestyle destination with three onsite restaurants, a rooftop with rotating live music, heated pool with poolside DJs, a retail clothing store, onsite spa, a weekly schedule of wellness and fitness classes, surf school offerings, as well as an abundance of arts and cultural programming,” says Managing Partner, Jon Krasner. “The hotel is located just one block off a world class ocean beach with surf breaks and the boardwalk, and offers sweeping views of Manhattan, Jamaica Bay and the Atlantic Ocean - it’s an ideal beach escape within an hour of the city, accessible via ferry and subway.” In other words, Rockaway Hotel is the reset button you’ve been craving, and a prime option for anyone looking to make the most of their Memorial Day Weekend while kicking it close to home. Book your room at www.therockawayhotel.com

The Pool photo by

Kyle Knodell/The Ro

ckaway Hotel

y Hotel

ockawa

ell/The R

yle Knod oto by K

ftop ph

The Roo

METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

BY MEGAN VENZIN

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

FEATURE

“COME AS YOU ARE” ADVENTURE

A COSMIC

NEW YORK

NIGHTCLUBS ARE TEMPORARILY CLOSED, BUT OUTER SPACE IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS, AND ELSEWHERE SOUND SPACE INVITES YOU ON AN ADVENTURE, PACKED WITH LAUGHS, LOVE AND TOP-NOTCH ENTERTAINERS PETER SMITH THRIVES IN FRONT OF A LIVE AUDIENCE. BEFORE LAST MARCH, BRIGHTLY LIT STAGES AT ICONIC NEW YORK VENUES LIKE ARS NOVA, CAROLINE’S ON BROADWAY AND THE SLIPPER ROOM WERE LIKE PLAYGROUNDS FOR THE TRANS COMEDIAN. In addition to appearing in hit television shows like Hulu’s Shrill,

THIS PAGE: PETER SMITH PHOTO COURTESY OF ELSEWHERE SOUND STAGE

the Upright Citizens Brigade alum has spent the last several years carving a niche for themselves as a go-to variety show host - a high-energy phenom who can belt showtunes, dish out jokes and work a crowd with ease. The possibilities before them seemed limitless.

Then the pandemic hit. Comedy clubs went dark, and cabaret spaces cleared their schedules. Studios hit pause. But as the old saying goes, “when one door closes, another cosmic gate opens.” (That is the phrase, right?) Now, Smith’s fans can find them on Twitch as the host of Elsewhere Sound Space, a trippy, interstellar livestream created by the masterminds behind Elsewhere Brooklyn, a multi-room nightclub frequented by the city’s LGBTQ+ community in part for its highly inclusive ethos. “I’ve always loved the stars,” Smith shares wistfully during a video call with Metrosource. “I mean, it sounds corny, but I do believe that live performance or live theater is the purest translation of what the stars give to humans on Earth. Like, we watch this fixed point that is temporary, and we attach these lessons and characters and meanings to them, and then they go off for a certain amount of time before they

return. Ever since being a kid I’ve always just loved that [stars] are our most magical thing and our most real thing at the same time.” These days we could all use a little magic. After a year of isolation and feeling far away from the things we find familiar - family, social outings, basic human contact - deep space feels like the perfect setting for this virtual program, which guests can tune into monthly. “We thought, how do we translate a night out into a television show?” Smith explains of Elsewhere

Sound Space’s roots. “That was creatively inspiring because we’re inventing a new medium, ultimately.” A green screen set affords Smith the impossible ability to invite viewers on board their spaceship where they interview special guests, present musical performances and trade words with an iguana named Puccini who keeps them company while in orbit. A crowd of “pod people” provide a sort of dystopian laugh track that fills the void. Smith has a ball with this feature, but where they truly shine is when interacting with the “live” audience, who are invited to participate in real-time using the chat function powered by the Twitch platform. “It’s a full flip scenario of any live venue performance because typically [the audience members] are told to be quiet, and now we’re encouraging them to speak the whole time,”Smith says with a smile. And the effect is truly out of this world. Donning futuristic, selfdesigned costumes, Smith steals the show with jokes about their ex and quippy screenname shoutouts. Visceral performances from musical acts like KITANA, Paperboy Prince and Starchild and the New Romantic (also known as VibeKing420, as he has been crowned in space) bring a groovy element to their segments as their forms shift and shape in a kaleidoscope of sound and color. “Mainly we’re focused on working with artists that make visionary music, can get weird with us, and who have a unique perspective on music culture and on life,” explains Elsewhere Sound Space Co-Creator,

I MEAN, IT SOUNDS CORNY, BUT I DO BELIEVE THAT LIVE PERFORMANCE OR LIVE THEATER IS THE PUREST TRANSLATION OF WHAT THE STARS GIVE TO HUMANS ON EARTH. METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

FEATURE NEW YORK

“WE THOUGHT, HOW DO WE TRANSLATE A NIGHT OUT INTO A TELEVISION SHOW?” SMITH EXPLAINS OF ELSEWHERE SOUND SPACE’S ROOTS. “THAT WAS CREATIVELY INSPIRING BECAUSE WE’RE INVENTING A NEW MEDIUM, ULTIMATELY.”

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

Princess Nokia and Peter Smith

Paperboy Prince Princess Nokia, Julio Peter and Peter Smith METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

Peter Smith

So, catch you in orbit soon?

■

Log on to the next transmission and experience Elsewhere Sound Space for yourself on April 27th at 7PM EST

Jake Rosenthal.“We just want to keep learning and exploring the boundaries of this new interactive medium. We want to give artists new ways to show their real personality and share their vision.” For those who missed the first two “transmissions,”just know, the far-out party is only a few clicks away, and you’re already on the guest list. With peak concurrent viewership typically surpassing 11,0000, the streams have given an international collective of fans plenty of reasons to go full rocket man - so join them. Simply download the Twitch app and follow Elsewhere TV to tune in and begin earning points which can be used to acquire personal affirmations from Smith during the broadcast. The high rollers of the evening can enter a “soul match” to be linked with another viewer during the psychedelic credit sequence. “You listened to everything Starchild said about love and romance. Well don’t you want that for yourself?” Smith says during the most recent episode, urging fans to throw in their“cheer bits”and take a chance on love. “You may not have known each other before, but you came to this show looking for a connection. And you’re going to get it.” And those connections are what make Elsewhere Sound Space so pure and inviting. In a time when going to a crowded bar to meet up with friends feels impossible, Smith and the Elsewhere gang have defied the odds. Using technology and top-tier talent, they facilitate quality human interaction in an inclusive and highly entertaining astral plane where anything goes. “I think for a lot of queer people, outer space is such a comfortable place to be,” Smith says matter of factly,“… queer people and anyone living in an invisible system on planet Earth.” APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

Struggling with sexual dysfunction? You’re not alone.

Sexual dysfunction takes many forms, and affects a broad spectrum of men. No matter how long it’s been, or how young or old you are, we can help you manage or treat your condition—even if you’ve had unsuccessful results elsewhere. Whether it’s erectile dysfunction, low sex drive, premature ejaculation, Low T or something else, our fellowship trained, board-certified urologist and his team of specialists can help.

Call for a free phone consultation: (646) 585 8980 maze4men.com Offices in NYC, 2 blocks from Grand Central, and in Purchase, NY.

PAGE 60-62: PHOTOS COURTESY OF ELSEWHERE SOUND STAGE

NEW YORK

FEATURE

at www.twitch.com/elsewhere

NY HOTSHOPS

TRY A LITTLE TENDERNESS

NEW YORK

Erica and Will Messmer

A LOCAL BUTCHER SHOP PROVES THAT PRIME CUTS ARE ROOTED IN PASSION AND RESPECT BY MEGAN VENZIN AFTER SPENDING YEARS BEHIND DESKS, Will Messmer and his wife, Erica, had grown weary of working for other people. Once they made the decision to leave their 9-to-5 jobs, a big question remained: what would they do instead?

A shared passion for food had always been a cornerstone of their relationship, but it would turn out to be a fixture of their livelihood, too. “From our first date, Erica and I have always talked a lot about food and all things food related - chefs we follow, restaurants we frequent, meals we feel nostalgic for, and on and on,”Will shares.“ So, the love was there.” While plotting their escape from the corporate hustle, the couple considered what it might be like to open a cafe or mount a new bed and breakfast. It was not until they visited their local whole animal butcher shop (“whole” meaning, in practice, as much of the animal is used as possible) that a clearer picture of their future began to materialize. METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

METROSOURCE.COM

and accessibility round out the list of factors, he adds. For obvious reasons, protein is the star of the show at Darke Pines. Deep, red cuts of sirloin steak, osso buco and oxtail will entice the grass-fed beef lovers. The poultry gang will appreciate the freerange whole chickens and thighs, packed fresh. A variety of pork and beef sausages are perfect for grill masters with guests to impress (try the beef chorizo - it’s spicy and downright decadent!). And don’t neglect to try the thick cut bacon or cured meats such as pastrami, mortadella, and roast beef, all of which can be enjoyed piled high on sourdough bread with homemade accoutrements like zesty pimento cheese spread and horseradish creme at Darke Pine’s sister sandwich counter, Downtowner. The store’s commitment to ethically sourced meats, produce and other wholesome items makes it a must-visit for stalwart omnivores and flexitarians alike. A partnership with Pennsylvania’s Lancaster Farm Fresh Co-Op means that fresh eggs and seasonal community supported agriculture boxes loaded with organic fruits and vegetables are always plentiful, and perfect for rounding out a conscious and altogether stellar supper. “There’s a story behind everything we eat, and a whole animal butcher shop tells that story,” Messmer says.“The story behind Darke Pines food is simple, local and motivated by love.” ■

LOCATIONS: Darke Pines 332 2nd St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 www.darkepines.com Downtowner 9 Erie St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 www.downtowner.online

PAGE 63-64: PHOTOS COURTESY OF DARKE PINES

NY HOTSHOPS NEW YORK

“There’s this feeling we had when we stepped inside. Butcher shops bring you closer to the foods’ origins and it’s almost like you can taste the work, care and love that goes into good food,” Will explains wistfully. “And the more we researched whole animal butchery, the more we realized it was aligned with values and interests important to Erica and me: sustainability, community and support for small farms.” In 2018, the duo launched their own whole animal butchery called Darke Pines, named after Will’s grandparents’ estate in Darke County, OH. This cozy urban concept brings some of that rustic, rural goodness straight to Jersey City’s downtown neighborhood. (Fun fact: Will’s grandfather was also a butcher, though he admits that was not what initially drew him to the craft.) The succulent offerings found within their modest storefront must meet a wealth of criteria set by the Messmers before customers can check them off their shopping lists. “It’s critical that the animals are raised on pasture in a stress-free habitat, without growth hormones or unnecessary antibiotics and that they are slaughtered as humanely as possible,” Will elaborates.“When seeking brands to stock our shelves, it is an ongoing (and probably endless) project. Ideally, we are working with small, local brands with short, simple ingredient lists.” Taste, shelf life

NEW YORK DIRECTORY ACCOUNTING – COUNSELING/PSYCHOTHERAPY

ACCOUNTING Dikman, Bernard L., C.P.A. 37 W 20th St, Ste 703, NYC �� 212 929-4299

Woloshen, Robert A. CPA 29 W 15th St, Ste 1 NYC �� 212 843-3486 www.rawcpa.com

ACUPUNCTURE Acupuncture-NYC

80 Fifth Ave, Ste 906 NYC �� 212 874-0898 www.acupuncture-nyc.com

ADOPTION SERVICES Friends in Adoption

NYC �� 800 982-3678 www.friendsinadoption.org

AESTHETIC SERVICES Advanced Dermatology Associates

200 Central Park South #107 NYC �� 212 262-2500 NYC �� 212 246-0800 www.adv-derm.com

Lexington Plastic Surgeons

113 E 39th St, NYC �� 646 374-2410 www.try.lexingtonplasticsurgeons.com/metrosource

Sexual Health Men

290 Madison Ave 6th Fl NYC �� 973 493-7607 www.sexualhealthmen.com Stoller, Roy B., D.O.

515 Madison Ave, Ste 1205 NYC �� 212 920-4499 www.hairdoctornyc.com

Aziz, Michael, M.D., FRSM

Midtown Integrative Medicine 509 Madison Ave @ 53rd St, Ste 1111 NYC �� 212 906-9111 www.michaelazizmd.com

APRIL/MAY 2021 METROSOURCE NY

TRAVEL

Eight International

METROSOURCE

DESTINATIONS WE’LL BE READY TO CHECK OUT

ELSEWHERE SOUND SPACE A COSMIC “COME AS YOU ARE”

Adventure

HOT SHOP

SANDRA BERNHARD

DARKE PINES A LOCAL BUTCHER SHOP ROOTED IN PASSION AND RESPECT

HAS EXTRAVAGANT Food FOR ANY TIME WITH TASTING HISTORY APRIL/MAY 2021

KNOWS THE SUREFIRE WAY TO COMBAT Social Media HATERS

BYE BYE PLASTIC FOUNDATION

AIMS TO ELIMINATE SINGLE-USE ITEMS IN THE DJ Booth AND BEYOND

ATTORNEYS

Paul Evans Catering

www.davidsternarchitecture.com

Bing, Steven E.

276 5th Ave, Ste 1008 NYC �� 212 286-1666

20 W 20th St NYC ��212 321-1822 NYC ��212 243-4494 www.paulevanscatering.com

Chianese & Reilly Law, P.C.

CLOTHING

122 E 42nd St, Ste 3900 NYC �� 212 953-6447 100 Merrick Rd, Ste 103E Rockville Centre, NY �� 516 599-2020 www.awclawyer.com

Dave’s New York

581 Ave of the Americas, NYC Toll Free ��800 543-8558 www.davesnewyork.com

Chou, Luna, Esq. NYC �� 212 226-2610 www.lunachoulaw.com

Jackson Boutique

Goldman, Jeffrey E., Esq 501 Fifth Ave #1900 NYC �� 212 983-8999 NYC �� 212 949-5085 www.jgoldmanlaw.com

CONTRACTORS/CONSTRUCTION

Law Offices of Thomas Sciacca, PLLC

COUNSELING/PSYCHOTHERAPY

44 Wall St, 12th Fl NYC �� 212 495-0317 www.sciaccalaw.com Long & Associates NYC �� 212 360-0394 www.landapllc.com

Tesler, Richard, Esq. 41 W 72nd St NYC �� 212 362-6961

www.jacksonboutiquenyc.com

ABS Design & Construction

NYC ��212 731-0642 www.abs-construction-nyc.com

Angers, Marc E., M.A. Oxon, L.C.S.W./L.P.

Licensed Psychoanalyst, NCPsyA NYC ��917 678-7929

Barneson, Jeff, LCSW

119 Washington Place NYC ��212 252-2314 www.jeffbarneson.com

Blatter, Andrew, LCSW

NYC ��917 442-5213 www.andrewblatter.com

SAVE UP TO 52% OFF THE COVER PRICE Yes! I want all the fabulous that’s fit to print! Please send me 6 issues (one year) for just $24.95* (a savings of 40%) Please send me 12 issues for $39.95* (a savings of 52%)

MAX MILLER

LESLI MARGHERITA

Torre, Martin B. RA AIA Architecture + Planning PLLC 605 E 14th St, #8 NYC �� 646 257-9081

Li-Lac Chocolates West Village: 40 8th Ave, NYC Greenwich Village: 162 Bleecker St, NYC Grand Central: 43rd & Lexington, NYC Chelsea Market: 75 Ninth Ave, NYC Industry City: 68 35th St, Brooklyn NYC ��212 924-2280 www.li-lacchocolates.com

David Stern Architecture

Parker | Waichman LLP 6 Harbor Park Dr. Nationwide �� 800 JUST-CALL www.yourlawyer.com

ALLERGIES

STRIKING ONE LAST Pose WITH

CATERING

ARCHITECTURE

NICO SANTOS

LIVING ON Cloud 9

Please check the edition that you want:

NY Edition

LA Edition

National Edition

Name______________________________________________________________ Address____________________________________________________________ City________________________________ State____________Zip____________ Email______________________________ Check Credit Card

* Add $2.50 per issue for foreign mailing, including Canada. Credit Card #__________________________________________Exp_______CVV_______ Complete this form and sent it with a check or money order payable to : Bent Share Entertainment, LLC, 6475 E. Pacific Coast Hwy., #438, Long Beach, CA 90803

METROSOURCE.COM

APRIL/MAY 2021

NEW YORK DIRECTORY COUNSELING/PSYCHOTHERAPY – DENTISTS Bloom Psychotherapy NYC 19 W 34th St, PH NYC. ��347 921-0431 www.nycbloomtherapy.com

COUNSELING/SUBURBAN

DENTISTS

Kingan, Peter L., Ph.D.

Babushkin, Howard, D.D.S., L.L.C.

31 Oak St Patchogue, NY ��631 447-6425

Campbell, Robert D., LCSW Psychotherapy for Individuals & Couples NYC ��646 783-8155 www.robertdcampbell.com

DATING SERVICES

Davies, Ann Conant, M.S.W., L.C.S.W.

ManMate Dinners For 8

740 West End Ave, Ste 1 Cell ��917 923-2257

Dicker, Phyllis D., L.C.S.W., A.C.S.W., B.C.D. NYC ��718 855-5171