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Black History Month News | Lifestye | Culture | Scene | Voice
Transforming Lives Through the Arts
Inside: An Interview with Iowa Women’s Basketball Associate Head Coach, Jan Jensen
“There’s so much more to our life together than HIV.” It doesn’t matter that he’s positive and I’m not. What matters is that we love and support each other.
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Help stop HIV stigma in your family and community. Learn how at cdc.gov/together
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GoGuide regrets an editing error that appeared in last month’s issue of the Digital issue of the magazine.
Vol. 5; Issue 6 February 2021 Black History Month
Here is the correct reading:
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Biz McChesney | HIV and Hepatitis Prevention Program Manager | Iowa Department of Public Health Here are a few bullet points for what we hope and expect for 2021.
1. 2021 will be a year for strategic planning and community engagement. Our hope is to engage in a strategic planning process that is community focused and raises up the voices of communties impacted by HIV and viral hepatitis. We will be working with communities and stakeholders to develop plans to end both the HIV epidemic and viral hepatitis in Iowa.
2. Integrating at-home HIV testing into PrEP and public health testing programs. Integrating at-home testing will expand access to individuals who have barriers to accessing other testing services and for individuals who need testing to maintain a PrEP regime. 3.The FDA is expected to approve the first long-acting injectable HIV medications in early 2021. The long-acting injections are administered monthly by a healthcare professional, compared to a standard daily oral regimen.
4. Increasing STD testing through a variety of mechanisms including at-home rapid testing and piloting rapid chlamydia and gonorrhea testing.”
TABLE OF CONTENTS “It is our mission to inform the community and to promote positive change.”
Publisher & Executive Editor Tim Nedoba
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Photography GoGuide Media
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Joey Amato Erica Barz Gregg Shapiro Erik Sosa
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Social Media & Special Events Reach Out Marketing Events
Local & Online Sales: Reach Out Marketing tim@romllc.us (319) 800-3223
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“Sound off” We want to hear from you
We want to hear from you! This is your opportunity to let us know what you’re thinking. What are we doing right and what are we doing wrong? Comment space is available at the end of every article.
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GoGuide Magazine
Sound Off is a monthy feature where we ask for you thoughts on a specific topic(s). This month’s topic: Is the Iowa City area an LGBTQ+ travel desitination?
“Sound off”
Let’s say you have friends coming in from Chicago for the weekend. Where would you tell them to stay, eat, drink, party, take it easy, and the best place(s) to chill before leaving after a weekend of fun? Please let us know!
We want to hear from you
What’s going on in Des Moines Is the GOP out of their minds?
February 2021 GoGuide Magazine Various reports
Des Moines, IA: Once again, the heavily dominated Iowa Senate and Legislature by the GOP has led to several anti-LGBTQ+ bills being proposed in both chambers. GoGuide reached out to our local representative to get the most current update. Iowa Senator Zach Wahls responded by saying, “These bills are another example of Republican’s disregard for the LGBTQ community and their attempts to pit Iowans against each other instead of advance bipartisan solutions for all Iowa families.” One Iowa executive director Courtney Reyes made the following statement during a recent virtual LGBTQ+ health. Reyes stated during her opening remarks, “Legislators are saying we don’t believe the trans community has a voice in Iowa. I wholeheartedly believe that is not true.”
GoGuideMagazine.com will continue to monitor the situation in Des Moines. Constant updates will be available as news warrants. GoGuide Magazine will be interviewing Iowa Senator Liz Mathis for the latest news from Des Moines next Wednesday.
Coralville PrideFest 2021 Update Planning is still ongoing Coralville, IA: It is hoped Coralville PrideFest 2021 will still take place. Unfortunately, there are so many moving parts. Most notably is the state of the COVID-19 pandemic and its status this coming September, among other issues.
The hope is to find a location in the Iowa River Landing neighborhood. Thankfully, Hawkeye Title & Settlement has stepped up to sponsor the event allowing us funds to continue the planning effort. Visit www. Facebook/CoralvillePride. ROMLLC Events is the coordinator of the event. Contact tim@romllc.us for more information
Cedar Rapids Economic Alliance to Launch a Cohort with Kirkwood College focusing on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Issues The training to include stakeholder-led discussions around race and social justice issues and how they impact a business. February 2021 GoGuide Magazine Various news reports
The Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance held its annual meeting virtually in January, highlighting accomplishments made during a challenging year dealing with the pandemic and derecho and introducing initiatives to build on in the future. It was also announced the launch of a cohort with Kirkwood Community College focused on diversity, equity, inclusion issues, including stakeholder-led discussions around race and social justice issues and how they impact the business. “The dual-track program for CEOs and their HR directors will provide a safe, confidential discussions place for community-facilitated and peer-driven exploration of issues of race and equity,” said Executive Director Doug Neumann. He continues, “In our public policy port function, you’ll see in 2021 a particular effort to unite urban and rural business interests on issues like broadband expansion and workforce recruitment strategies. We will continue highlighting civil cooperative, bipartisan work in an era where economic development priorities can unite.” For more information visit www.cedarrapids.org/application/ files/4016/1169/5985/Kirkwood_EA_EDI_Program.pdf.
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According to the P&M website (Pintas.com), “Anyone suffering from kidney damage or bone problems after taking a TDF drug, such as Truvada, to help treat symptoms of HIV as well as prevent other infections or cancers, may be entitled to significant financial compensation. ACT NOW!” How Much Money Has Been Awarded? The answer is zero! According to Shouse Injury Law Group, “There have not yet been any settlements with Gilead in Truvada cases or TDF lawsuits.”
Does Gilead owe you Money? GoGuide takes a second look at the safety & efficacy of PrEP. February 2021 GoGuide Magazine By Tim Nedoba
Iowa City, IA: In 2018, the LA Times reported, “two Southern California men filed suit against Gilead Sciences, saying they were harmed when the drug company intentionally delayed development of a safer version of an essential HIV medicine. The men allege Giliead did so to continue to profit from its lucrative monopoly.” These men had taken medication Truvada. GoGuide first began reporting on this story in October 2019. Just like the fall of 2019, it’s the large number of social media ads promoting class-action lawsuits against Gilead and Truvada that caught our attention.
What’s at issue? Truvada is a widely prescribed medication used to fight HIV. It’s also part of the regimen known as PrEP (Pre-exposure prophylaxis). PrEP is the taking of a prescription drug to prevent HIV infection in an HIV-negative person. Truvada has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat HIV infection.
Most recently, it’s been Facebook ads from Chicago based law firm Pintas & Mullins Injury Lawyers and others that caught our attention. GoGuide has reached out to the law firm for some clarification, but they have not responded to our inquiries at this writing time.
Also, don’t expect any money soon. However, this does not mean Gilead isn’t liable. The maker of Truvada may have hidden information from the public about possibly dangerous side effects. If you have taken a TDF drug before 2019 and have suffered kidney or bone disease, you may want to inquire about your situation. What are the experts saying? Again for the article, GoGuide reached out to Jack Stapleton, M.D. for his expertise on this issue. Dr. Stapleton said that he could not comment on the lawsuits’ validity as legal issues are not his area of expertise. However, he stated that TDF is an effective and generally safe drug for HIV treatment and prevention. The newer form of the drug (TAF) is less likely to cause kidney or bone density problems. The lawsuit hinges on allegations that the company delayed releasing the newer form of the drug with potential harm to kidneys and bone density among those treated. Dr. Stapleton is credited for starting the HIV/AIDS clinic at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics. He’s also a Professor at, Division of Infectious Diseases. Depts. of Internal Medicine & Microbiology and Immunology Director, Levitt Center for Viral Pathogenesis In 2019 Dr. Stapleton told GoGuide Magazine, “The older form of Truvada (TDF) is associated with reduced bone density and kidney problems in a small percentage of people. It is a very well tolerated drug clinically, which is why it became one of the leading drugs used to treat HIV over the last 20 years.”
Dr Stapleton also noted about COVID-19 and HIV+ “For those people living with HIV who are on antiretrovirals do not appear to have worse disease or increased susceptibility to COVID-19.”
In that 2019 issue, GoGuide also reached out to the Iowa Department of Public Health. IDPH administers a CDC grant is charged with reducing the HIV infection rate in Iowa. The goal is a 75% reduction in new HIV infections by 2025 and at least 90% reduction by 2030.
In terms of the safety and efficacy of TDF drugs like Truvada, IDPH stated, “…We believe strongly in these programs (PrEP) as safe and effective ways to fight the spread of HIV in Iowa.” GG
A Q&A with Iowa Women’s Associate Head Basketball Coach Jan Jensen A leader on and off the court. February 2021 GoGuide Magazine By Tim Nedoba Photo’s Hawkeye Sports.com
Iowa City, IA: GoGuide Magazine feels fortunate to get a mid-season interview with Jan Jensen, associate head women’s basketball coach at the University of Iowa. In fact, the answers to our questions were received the day after a tough home loss to the Northwestern Wildcats. The fact that coach Jensen took the time to respond to our inquiry speaks highly of her integrity and willingness to talk with our readers.
Coach Jensen has had an illustrious career both on and off the court. She played at Drake University in Des Moines and has been a coach at Iowa for the past 18 seasons. There’s so much more to learn about coach Jensen. Please read on.
Q: What is it about the University of Iowa and the Iowa City community that makes it such an attractive place to coach and play basketball? Also, I want to get your perspective on how “welcoming” you have found the local community and has it changed over the last 18 years? A: Part of the reason I came to coach at the University of Iowa was because of the awesome reputation that the Iowa City community had, and I was so right! Iowa City had a cool vibe 21 years ago, and it has only gotten better. My spouse (Julie Fitzpatrick) and I felt extremely welcomed from day one, and that is because this community has seemingly been so open and accepting. Q: The University of Iowa has been a leading institution in offering opportunities
for women to excel in sports. Can you describe for the GoGuide reader the growth in opportunities for girls and women in sports? A: Dr. Christine Grant is a legend and icon in advocating for women’s athletics. Her life’s work has truly impacted the nation. The impact that she has had on the University of Iowa can never be overstated, nor can it be recognized or celebrated enough. The University of Iowa is a leader in women’s sports because Dr. Grant built the foundation, literally from the ground up. As a result, her work has helped every other university in the state of Iowa. Q: You played for Coach Bluder at Drake and now coached with her for years; what can you tell us about her the average fan may not know? Also, there must be a considerable amount of chemistry between the two of you; how does that chemistry work to build such a strong women’s basketball program at Iowa? A: Lisa is one of those rare head coaches that truly does not have an ego. She absolutely loves working with the young women on our team, and she works tirelessly to help them succeed on and off the court. That is the essence of what drives her. It isn’t the awards, the recognition, or the prestige in being one of the winningest coaches of all time; it is simply working with her players to make them better players and better people. Sometimes, people can look at head coaches and get caught up in the glamour part of it. For Lisa, that is the farthest thing from her mind. If you really know Lisa, you know that she is truly so very humble. We do have great chemistry, as we should after all of these years. I think our coaching relationship has lasted and been successful because of our mutual respect. I have never been a “yes” person. We both know that growth can only occur when challenged. Neither one of us have been afraid to challenge each other or be challenged by each other. Q: You have many young players doing very well, what’s the outlook for the rest of this year and next season for the future of the program: A: We have an extremely young team. With young teams, there are many
ebbs and flows. Young teams require time and patience. We see many moments of brilliance, but we also continue to see many moments of youth. In time, this group will be pretty special. The Big Ten is filled with many experienced teams, so our young Hawkeyes are being challenged every game. We so miss the fans in Carver. We have no doubt that our awesome homecourt advantage would be serving our young team well, so we’re hoping our Hawkeye fans will come out in full force when the pandemic is over. We love our fans, and we miss them! Q: I don’t know how much you want to talk about your personal life...Have you found the Iowa athletic community and the Iowa fan base welcoming to you and you and your spouse? A: As I said earlier, this university and community have been nothing but spectacular to my spouse, Julie Fitzpatrick, and I from the very beginning. As we started a family, we were so grateful that the wonderful support continued. There are still many challenges in the world facing the LGBTQ+ community, but I am so thankful that in our city, we have much more love, acceptance, and support than is sadly the norm in other areas. On behalf of my family and so many others like ours, I want to say a collective thanks to this community. Iowa City and Coralville are truly special, and we’re so thankful and proud to live here. Q: Do you see yourself as a role model? Are you active in bringing awareness to issues important to the LGBTQ+ community? A: I have always striven to live my life in a positive way and even at a young age, I was honored to be considered a role model. Sometimes, some people can feel burdened in being a role model, but that has never been me. I have always felt it an honor if anyone would consider me a role model in any realm. I truly believe that God has blessed me immensely and I am trying
to do all I can to use my life and any platform I may have to make a positive difference. I guess I am not certain if others view me as a role model; I believe that would be a question best answered by others. As for me, my goal is to live a life that may be worth replicating in various realms, and if others consider me a role model, I’m flattered. I will continue to do my best in being a good one. While I hope that I am helping to move the needle in all issues facing the LGBTQ+ community, sometimes the demands of my job do not always allow me to be able to attend as many local, state, and national events as I would like. As is the case with many people my age or older, sometimes our voices weren’t quite as loud in the beginning of our journeys. Twenty-five years ago, the world was a much different place. As I have grown up and older, I have gained more confidence in living my truth. I now try to advocate in as many ways as I can. I always consider it an honor to be part of anything working for positive change. Q: I see that you’re also actively raising money for the United Way of Johnson County. Why is this important to you? (Off the court, Jensen is a leader in fundraising for the United Way of Johnson County). I have a quote from Trisha Smith of United Way that I’m going to include with the interview...” Off the court, Jan is a leader in raising community support for United Way of Johnson & Washington Counties.” A: Honestly, I was raised with a spirit of giving back. I grew up in a farming community where everyone helped everyone. As I grew up and was blessed with so many opportunities, I just wanted to make sure I was doing all I could to give back to hopefully help others get access to great opportunities. I believe that all of us are only on this planet for a short while, and if we do it right, we will hopefully leave things better than we found them. That is my lifelong goal, to make a positive difference and do my part to make this world a better place. I am fully aware how blessed I am that I live in such a wonderful place and work at such a great university, so working with groups, like the United Way, is such a great way to give back to a community that has been so very good to me. Paying it forward, making it better, to me, that’s what it is all about. GG Visit hawkeyesports.com/sports/wbball/schedule/ for the remaining schedult to what should be an exciting finish to the season.
What makes Iowa City’s downtown entertainment district on of the best in the country? We hear directly from some of the biggesst players in this exclusive interview Andrew Sherburne
Exectutive director & co-founder FilmScene GG: It’s Great to hear the Pride Series is continuing at FilmScene. How are films selected for this series? FS: Films are selected by FilmScene’s programming director Rebecca Fons from the best new and classic LGBTQIA+ cinema available in the virtual space and a desire for diverse and inclusive storytelling. GG: How has FilmScene adapted to COVID-19? FS: FilmScene launched an improved Virtual Screening Room which allows patrons to watch films curated by FilmScene from their home. We have also been offering Kernels for Kindness, a curbside concessions program that also gives back to the community by designating $5 from each bundle towards local service orgs. Lastly, we’ve been offering opportunities for private Movie Parties in our cinemas every weekend, a chance to take in a big screen film in a safe and comfortable way. This year has not only been a challenge to business as usual but to the inadequacy of antiquated models—we feel empowered to enter the next era with a rejuvenated effort towards using the arts to cultivate a more just society. GG: Is virtual streaming of movies the new reality? FS: Streaming films is certainly firmly entrenched as a part of the movie industry. But this year has also been a
February 2021; compiled by Tim nedoba
firm reminder that the communal arts experience isn’t a luxury but a necessity. We need the big screen experience to move us deeply, we need to gather with our neighbors to take in the arts. It’s essential to who we are as humans.
GG: What’s coming in February? FS: FilmScene will be presenting a curated selection of Black cinema as well as a FilmScene 101 course on Black superheroes in February and March Details forthcoming. GG: The Iowa City entertainment is as good as anywhere in the country. How do you do it? FS: Iowa City is fortunate to have passionate and dedicated arts leaders programming these spaces. But at just as much a reflection of the quality of our audiences. There is a hunger for the arts here that doesn’t exist everywhere and supporting and engaging with the arts is a regular practice. It’s engrained in this community. GG: Are you optimist about the future? FS: Absolutely. The arts help us understand our world. The arts strengthen community. This time has proven how essential that is to a functioning society.
John Schickedanz
Joe Reilly
Marketing Director The Englert Theatre
Nighttime Mayor Iowa City Downtown District
Q: It must have been an exciting day to see the Marquee rise again? A: Attending the marquee lighting celebration has been one of the bright spots of this year. We were humbled to be able to share that event with the community. The marquee may reside in our building, but we know it belongs to the community.
Q: How is downtown Iowa City handling and adjusting to the pandemic? A: This past year has been a challenge that has sparked innovation in regulated compliance with COVID-19.
Q: How is The Englert able to book such high-quality shows? A: We’re lucky enough to be connected with amazing talent across the country and right here in our community. Our programming team works hard to bring that talent to our venue. Amazingly, we can host the best shows that we see at The Englert without traveling to large metropolitan areas. Q: How has The Englert been able to navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic? A: Our building may be closed, but we’re still hard at work bringing art to the community in new ways. We [tomorrow] announced our 2021 Digital Season, which includes four brand new programs and nearly 150 productions. We’ll keep producing work virtually until we can welcome people back into our space. Q: I see David Sedaris is appearing later in February. Are live performances coming back soon? A: We’re currently in conversations about our upcoming live performances. These will likely be rescheduled.
Q: Is the downtown community optimistic about 2021? A: I would say there is more to look forward to this year as a vaccine is now being rolled out, but the tangibles such as foot traffic and regular customer habits returning would reaffirm that optimism.
Q: What are some examples of innovation taking place downtown? A: We have seen a plethora of virtual content, from music artist Instagram live, drag shows, events like Ghost Creek, and a virtual Witching Hour, but we’ve also seen live in-person events like live music and dancing (of course, that comes with patrons seated when consuming, masks on when out of your seats and distanced from other parties). Again, this time has shown new ways of engaging the public. Q: Iowa City is famous for its live entertainment. How anxious is everyone to get back to normal? A: I think we have seen a double down on making this the greatest small city for the arts through Strengthen Grow Evolve and the newly formed Downtown Arts Alliance. People are waiting in the wings, and when the timing is right, they are ready to go full bore again.
Transforming Lives through the Arts February 2021 GoGuide Magazine Compiled by Tim Nedoba
Using artistic expression to share life experiences and chal-
lenge old ideas is part of every artist and art enthusiast’s fabric. For example, there is The Color Purple, a Pulitzer Prize-winning book Alice Walker. The award-winning Joel Hall Dancers in Chicago provides an opportunity for inner-city youth to learn dance and expression as another example. These are just two examples. There are so many more. Joel Hall offered these thoughts to GoGuide Magazine, “When we speak of dance in America, one thinks’ of our exposure to mainstream Eurocentric values and how we judge what American culture represents to each of us. America still is a melting pot of cultures.”
In a recent phone interview with Chuck Swanson, the executive director of Hancher Auditorium at the University of Iowa, he brought to my attention how the arts can help bring a nation together despite pandemics and social unrest. He said, “it’s important to use the arts to understand differences and celebrate our differences.” File photo by Tim Nedoba Swanson concluded with, “Diversion, equity, and inclusion have always been important work for Hancher and always will be. The arts are a way to help people heal. It’s about transforming lives. “GG
“No Ugliness Around Here” February 2021 GoGuide Magazine A new column by Erica Barz
One year ago, my fiancé and I were in New York City. It was our last trip before the pandemic hit, and we’ve been looking back on it fondly over the past several months. One of the places we visited was Henrietta Hudson, one of the oldest (and few remaining) lesbian bars in the country.
We went on a Monday night, so it was pretty quiet. Just us and a few women, I’m sure, were regulars and friends with the people who worked there. It’s a small bar with a cozy “hole in the wall” vibe that I enjoyed. Nestled in the back of the bar, next to the single obligatory pool table, is a wall mural depicting Storm é DeLarverie. If that name sounds familiar to you, it’s likely due to her involvement in the Stonewall Uprising. Queer legend has it that she was the person who threw the first punch, sparking the flame that ignited the LGBTQ rights movement. She was known for defending her community against the “ugliness” of homophobic violence and intolerance, guarding the queer bars in Greenwich Village for decades as a bouncer. She was also a performer with the Jewel Box Revue, the first integrated drag production.
Despite her titanic role in crafting the LGBTQ Stonewall Veteran and Drag King Icon, rights movement as we know it today, Storm é Storme DeLarverie DeLarverie found herself in an all too common position for older LGBTQ people near the end of her life, especially older Black LGBTQ people. Due to the failure of our country’s healthcare and financial systems to serve people like her, she was penniless and socially isolated from all but a few friends who did all they could to provide for her. If you’re a podcast person, I highly recommend listening to “The Cowboy of the West Village,” an episode of The Nod where Storm é ’s friends share how they came together to take care of her as she had taken care of her community. This Black History Month, I urge you to not only learn about Black LGBTQ icons of the past but find and support the Black LGBTQ icons living and working in your community. We cannot allow the Storm é DeLarverie’s of today to fade into obscurity, and we must care for our community leaders when broader societal systems fail to do so.
GG
Community Voices
Op-ED
February 2021
Advertising in LGBTQ Media is a Win-Win Plus a Win
By Todd Evans Rivendell Media Special to GoGuide Magazine
I’ve been in business a long time, and one thing everyone in business learns is that if you want to succeed, you must create win-win scenarios.
Rivendell Media’s whole business model is based on this idea, and it has served us well for 41 years and counting. The better the job we do, the more dollars go directly to LGBTQ media. This gives LGBTQ media the necessary funds to report on the community’s information to help gain and protect equal rights for all Americans. There is no downside. It’s a win-win — plus another win!
This axiom also applies to corporations and companies pursuing the LGBTQ market. Advertising directly in LGBTQ owned and operated media provides the funds necessary to cover the LGBTQ community. It is also a win for the advertiser because it lets their consumers know they are LGBTQ friendly and are asking for their support and business.
However, I want to address those good corporations and companies that support LGBTQ charitable organizations and community groups. Still, I don’t take that extra step to make their customers — especially their LGBTQ customers — aware of their good works. “Gaydar” may allow LGBTQ people to spot others like them, but it doesn’t work for identifying LGBTQ friendly companies. All jokes aside,
so many of these companies fail to capitalize on their investments with various communities, especially the LGBTQ community.
So let’s look at advertising directly in LGBTQ media. All of these great companies that do good works owe it to themselves to let people know. The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), GLAAD (formerly the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation), the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC), the National LGBT Task Force, and so many other great foundational LGBTQ organizations can’t afford a regular presence in our media because their funds go to fulfilling their public interest missions. However, these companies can take their charitable investments and quickly bring them to the forefront of LGBTQ consumers’ eyes, minds, and wallets. Corporate advertising in LGBTQ media is crucial to the community since LGBTQ media is supported by advertising dollars and is in dire need due in part to the global pandemic. Any company could easily take their charitable donation and add some marketing dollars to help themselves while also helping the communities they support. This is a win for the company and a win for the charitable organization — AND a win for the LGBTQ consumer. As I said earlier, it’s a winwin plus another win! We are not talking big dollars here — $100,000 spent in advertising in LGBTQ media goes a long, long way, and the positive ripple created for the company cannot be understated. A mainstream ad with LGBTQ content is excellent, but it is a costly way to reach the LGBTQ community and does not at all financially support the community. Additionally, LGBTQ inclusive images in mainstream media can be viewed as tokenism. Think about that. Including LGBTQ images in mainstream media has no bearing on whether the company supports the community or adds inclusive images in advertising campaigns — and there is a BIG difference. So, I say to all those great companies that are already investing in LGBTQ organizations, take that investment and add some marketing dollars in a way that genuinely helps everyone involved. It is easy, economical, and beneficial for everyone. It’s a win-win. http://rivendellmedia.com/. For information about the LGBTQ+ market in Iowa, contact tim@romllc.us or visit www.GoGuideMagazine.com.
Screen Savor: Black lives matter on screen February 2021 GoGuide Magazine By Gregg Shapiro
Going to the theater to see a play is on hold for the near future, even with the arrival of a COVID-19 vaccine and the rollout, which is getting mixed reviews. Fortunately, there are enough movie adaptations available and on the way – including “The Prom,” “Everybody’s Talking About Jamie,” “In The Heights” and “West Side Story” – to quench a theater queen’s thirst. Sadly, the late, prolific playwright August Wilson who died in 2005 never got a chance to see the movie versions of two of his plays; “Fences” from 2016 and 2020’s “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” (Netflix). He probably would have been particularly pleased with the performances of Viola Davis, who won a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for “Fences” and appears to be a shoo-in for an Oscar nod for “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.”
From the moment she appears onscreen, performing a show in a tent in rural Georgia in 1927, followed by a more professionally presented concert in a theater, it’s impossible to take our eyes off of queer mother of the blues, Ma Rainey (Davis). From her gold teeth and dark eye shadow to her glorious dresses and occasional fur collar, she is a sight to behold. In Chicago for a recording session, she is accompanied by her nephew (and driver) Sylvester (Dusan Brown) and her lover Dussie Mae (Taylour Paige), and for every stare she gets, she gives it back double.
Her band, led by trumpeter Cutler (gay actor Colman Domingo, whom some may
remember for his portrayal of Maya Angelou on “The Big Gay Sketch Show”), is already at the studio rehearsing for the session. Also there is pianist Toledo (Glynn Turman), bass player Slow Drag (Michael Potts), and ambitious trumpeter Levee (the late Chadwick Boseman). Levee is an unrelenting thorn in Ma and the band’s side. He writes and plays arrangements that differ from Ma’s. He scoffs at the older band members, becoming threatening to Cutler and Toledo. He even dares to flirt with Dussie Mae. Here’s the problem with “Ma Rainey”: in the hands of gay, Tony Award-winning director George C. Wolfe, the movie alternates between being stagey and cinematic. The scenes with band members in the rehearsal space before Ma’s late arrival are filled with typical, if exaggerated, male banter, teasing and competitiveness. There is talk of God and blasphemy, the ways black men must find to survive in white culture. The rehearsal space, with one open door and one locked door, feels claustrophobic and too theatrical, and the often-repetitive dialogue doesn’t help matters.
Enter Ma Rainey! Each and every scene in which she appears, from the car accident in front of the studio and her heated interactions with white manager Irving (Jeremy Shamos) and recording studio head Sturdyvant (Jonny Coyne) to her intimate moment with Dussie Mae and her encouragement of stuttering Sylvester are gloriously vibrant. Her clashes with Levee are raw and real. Her performance at the recording studio mic is riveting. It makes you wish there was more Ma Rainey and less of everyone else.
Nevertheless, Boseman, in his final performance, more than holds his own from start to finish. Domingo also proves himself a fine dramatic actor. “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” and “One Night in Miami…” (Amazon Studios) -have more in common than you might expect. Both were based on plays by Black playwrights and feel theatrical and stagey in good and bad ways. Both are set in the past and deal with racist issues, making them timelier than ever. Both feature a singer among the lead roles. Both star a majority Black cast and are helmed by Black directors. Directed by Oscar-winning actress Regina King, “One Night in Miami…” is a fictional dramatization inspired by true events. An adaptation of Kemp Powers’ play of the same name, it brings together four men from different backgrounds whose contributions to Black culture continues to resonate to the present day. They are boxer Cassius Clay (Eli Goree), before he was known as Muhammad Ali; soul singer and songwriter Sam Cooke (“Hamilton”’s Leslie Odom, Jr.); human and civil rights activist Malcolm X (Kingsley Ben-Adir, who also manages to channel Barack Obama at the same time); and football legend turned actor Jim Brown (Aldis Hodge). Beginning in 1963, the introductory sequence of the movie shows each of the
men in personal and professional interactions. Fast-talking and fast-moving Clay loses a boxing match at Wembley Stadium in London. Cooke fails to win over an all-white audience at The Copa in New York. Brown experiences an unexpected racist slur from an old family friend in Georgia. Finally, Malcolm, his wife Betty (Joaquina Kalukango), and their daughters may lose their home if he proceeds with his plan to leave the Nation of Islam. But in 1964, the four friends’ fortunes are about to turn around. In a match against Sonny Liston in Miami Beach, Clay defeats his opponent to become the world heavyweight champion. Before the match, Clay meets with Malcolm at the Hampton House, a segregation-era motel in Miami Beach, so they could pray together. Clay, who is seriously considering converting to Islam, is actually the trump card for Malcolm’s next step in life. As we soon discover, Clay is unaware of this.
Nevertheless, his triumph in the ring was a reason for the four men to gather. However, none of them probably anticipated the volatility of such a congregation. Malcolm, under the watchful eye of bodyguards, the strict Kareem X (Lance Reddick) and more easygoing Jamaal (Christian Magby), is also aware that he is being observed by outsiders and is feeling pressured. So, in the midst of the celebratory atmosphere, something is boiling and brewing under the surface.
The verbal attacks they level against each other are personal and political. Their life decisions are scrutinized and judged. Malcolm for his unwavering religious devotion. Brown for abandoning his athletic career to go Hollywood. Cooke for wanting to be embraced by white audiences. Only man-of-the- hour Clay, who would go on to change his name to Muhammad Ali as part of his conversion, manages to remain somewhat unscathed, although the threat of physical violence hangs in the air.
All four lead actors are incredible in the embodiment of their roles. Goree and Odom, are particularly riveting, each giving an Oscar-worthy performance. However, like gay director Wolfe’s adaptation of the Wilson play, King’s rendition of Powers’ work is most electrified (and less claustrophobic) when it steps outside of the confines of the “set” (in this case, a motel room). Whether it’s on the motel’s roof with the view of Miami, a nearby liquor store parking lot, in a bar celebrating Ali’s win, or on the set of “The Tonight Show.” Regardless, King also deserves kudos for her impressive directorial skills. GG
“Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom”: B- / “One Night in Miami…”: B+
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The Struggle at Riverside Casino and Resort SATURDAY, MARCH 6, 2021, AT 7:30 PM Riverside Casino is located in Riverside, IA. The show is free. The show is 21+ Riverside Casino & Resort: The band self-describes itself as Lead singer Emily Mae Webb’s powerful voice, along with the full band’s infectious energy, will send you on an endless journey through the decades. Her roaring vocals have a jazz influence while reminiscent of Joplin. The five-piece band is called “The Struggle” They perform covers of favorites from all sorts of genres but add their flare of funk/soul.
Meet The Struggle
Q: How would you describe your genre of music? A: We don’t fall under one genre, as we like to take songs from multiple genres and alter them to fit our style. The best way to describe ourselves is pop with a little flare of folk/soul. Each band member comes from a different musical background and offers something unique to the table. Q: How did you come up with the name The Struggle? A: We spent plenty of time passing around ideas for our band name, but we were having difficulty landing on something we all liked. At one point, one of us exclaimed, “why does this part have to be such a struggle!” And thus, The Struggle was born! Q: How long has the band been together? A: We had our first live show in January of 2020. Little did we know Covid would hit the states shortly after, and all live shows had to be put on hold for a while. We have been fortunate over this period, though, and were still able to find ways to keep the music going safely.
Q: How did the Iowa river city influence your style of music? A: This is a tough question. Each band member has been playing and performing for as long as we can remember. The nice thing about the music scene in Dubuque is that there is room for almost all styles. It has allowed musicians of all backgrounds to get in touch and collaborate on ideas. We think that is a beautiful thing. Q: You will be at Riverside Casino in March...How do people get tickets? A: No tickets are needed! This will be a free show in the casino’s show lounge: masks and social distancing are required, of course.
Q: Final thoughts? A: Though the band hasn’t been together for an incredibly long time, we have all known each other for years. We are not just a band - we’re friends! We love to have fun, we love to be goofy, and we want the audience to have as much fun as we do!
Think Iowa City Plans for “Foodie February” Festivities in Johnson County February 2021 GoGuide Magazine Special to GoGuide from Think Iowa City!
CORALVILLE: The atmosphere may be different this year, but good food is still good food. And Johnson County is blessed with great dining options. Think Iowa City, the Iowa City/ Coralville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, is set to show off all of the great local culinary options with their third annual “Foodie February” promotion. “Obviously, things look a little different this year,” said Monica Nieves, Vice President of Special Events at Think Iowa City. “Our local restaurants need our support now more than ever. Our Foodie February programing can be a great shot in the arm for many of them.”
Foodie February consists of multiple elements. First of all, Think Iowa City’s social media channels will feature unique restaurants and dishes from local establishments in Johnson County every day of the month. Returning from last year is Restaurant Week, which will run from February 7-13. Area restaurants will feature special selections and/ or pricing during the week. Top Chef Downtown, operated by the Iowa City Downtown District, occurs in a take-and-bake type of format February 22-24 and is already sold out. The Foodie Festival tasting event will not occur this year. New this year is the Spicy Food Challenge inspired by Yi Zhang, the owner of JiangHu Asian Street Food and Lark & Owl. Participating restaurants will offer specialty dishes with some heat. Anyone who eats five or more of these dishes throughout the month may submit their receipts to enter into a drawing for some dining related prizes. “There are a handful of restaurants that have been operating a Spicy Food Challenge unofficially for the last few years. We invited them to join in the Foodie February fun,” added Nieves.
Last, but certainly not least, is CHOMP food delivery is offering free delivery the whole month of February for those who use a yet-to-be announced code.
“’Dining out’ has taken on a whole new meaning in the past year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the amazing food our local restaurants produce. With socially distance dine-in options, take-out, curbside, and now free delivery, there is no reason not to treat yourself and enjoy Foodie February in the Iowa City area,” said Nieves.
Any restaurant wishing to participate should call Think Iowa City at 319-337-6592. There is no cost to the restaurant to be a part of the programming. More information can be found at FoodieFebruary. com.
GoGuide Travel Top 5 Things to Do in Phoenix in 2021 February 2021 GoGuide Magazine Special to GoGuide Magazine by Joey Amato
Phoenix, Arizona is one of the fastest growing cities in the United States. With a population topping 4.5 million people, the desert oasis provides a sprawling landscape complete with fabulous dining, retail, cultural attractions, and natural wonders that will surely please almost anyone. My last visit to Phoenix was highlighted by Phoenix Pride, which is tentatively scheduled for April 10-11, 2021. This year is the 40th Anniversary of the organization and one can only hope that ample amounts of vaccines are available to ensure the parade and festival go forward as planned.
As a travel journalist, I take it upon myself to not only promote destinations, but also promote safe travel. I would not travel anywhere or do anything that would put myself or my readers in danger, so on this trip, I abided by all COVID-19 protocols as well as dined outdoors for my entire stay. I typically visit a gay bar or two when I visit destinations but opted not to on this trip since cases were on the rise. Here are some things you can do on your next visit to Phoenix:
Take a Hike in the Desert – Outdoor adventure company REI organizes numerous guided hiking tours in the desert. There is no better way to remain socially distant than by taking a 2-hour hike through the Sonoran Desert. I was able to get up close and personal with numerous desert
plants including Arizona’s state tree, the Palo Verde as well as the saguaro cactus, which is protected under law. Depending on the time of year you visit, as well as the time of day, you may get to see some desert wildlife, but don’t worry, your guide knows how to deal with rattlesnakes should you have a close encounter. OdySea Aquarium/Butterfly Wonderland – Both attractions are located in Scottsdale, about a 20-minute commute from downtown Phoenix and are part of a large complex of attractions known as Arizona Boardwalk. Some highlights of OdySea include touch pools containing Russian Sturgeon, and various types of stingrays as well as SeaTREK, a once-in-a-lifetime experience where guests can suit up and go in the water for a 25-minute dive with zebra shark as well as hundreds of other tropical fish. Adjacent to OdySea is Butterfly Wonderland, one of the largest butterfly conservatories in North America. The conservatory contains over 70 different species of butterflies and is also home to dozens of colorful Koi fish, tropical finches, two chickens, and tree frogs.
Taliesin West – Frank Lloyd Wright was one of the most talented architects of all time. His winter home and studio, Taliesin West is truly a site to be seen. Even the drive up to Taliesin West is testament to Wright’s creativity and eye for beauty. The home blends seamlessly into the surroundings and is a true masterpiece, worthy of being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guests can take a self-guided audio tour of the sprawling grounds to see where Wright and his students created unique masterpieces.
Hot Air Ballooning – Ever since I was young, I’ve wanted to ride in a hot air balloon and although I have been to Phoenix before, I just didn’t find the time to check this item off my bucket list. On this visit, I decided to take a sunset ride with Rainbow Ryders, but I was quite nervous being a mile up in a balloon. I was comforted after I discovered that Rainbow Ryders was founded in 1983 and has forty balloons in their fleet. This isn’t a small operation, and I knew safety was one of the highest priorities. As
guests gather in basket, I began to panic a bit. I have become increasingly anxious about any sort of flying. As the balloon slowly ascended, I began to become more comfortable and enjoyed the panoramic view of the desert and surrounding mountains. After about an hour traveling wherever the wind blew us, we landed safely and enjoyed a champagne toast as we watched the sun set over the mountains. The experience was one I won’t soon forget.
ARRIVE Hotel – One of Phoenix’s newest hotels, ARRIVE is a retro-chic property containing luxurious rooms, an ice-pop stand, swim club complete with fire pits galore, as well as an on-site coffee shop. Some of the rooms at the 79-room hotel contain private fire pits, in-room record players, luxury linens and large walk-in showers. Lylo Swim Club is a destination in and of itself. The super trendy restaurant/pool contains a delicious menu of classics with a twist as well as some swanky cocktails. One item that really stood out on the menu were the Togarashi Fries prepared with crispy garlic, lemon mayo, jalapeño, and cilantro. I was a bit hesitant to try these at first, but after one bite, I knew I was in heaven. Chef Simon took an American classic, gave it a modern twist, and kicked it up about ten notches. Emeril Lagasse would be proud.
A visit to Phoenix is exactly what I needed; a bit of a mental escape from our COVID-19 world. The city will surely see an influx of visitors over the next few months, mostly those from colder locations looking for a warmer locale. If you travel in the near future, be sure to research local restrictions and travel safely. Enjoy the Journey!
Joey Amato is the founder and publisher of Pride Journeys, an LGBTQ travel website and syndicated column. For more LGBTQ travel ideas, please visit www.pridejourneys.com. Copyright © 2020 Pride Journeys, All rights reserved.
Are you ready Waterloo? The first Mr. Gay Waterloo to be held at Kinks & Queens Club February 13 Special To GoGuide Magazine
Waterloo, IA: Kings & Queens Club in Waterloo is hosting the first-ever Mr. Gay Waterloo. Kings and Queens Club is located at 304 W 4th St.
TO RUN FOR MR. GAY WATERLOO 2021, fill out an application before February 13. The contest rules and application can be downloaded at https:// kingsandqueensclub.com/mr-gay-waterloo-pageant-2021/. Contestants compete with an interview (5pm) and talent and evening wear display during the 10pm show. -Listed here is a brief list of the Official Rules and Regulations for the event. The complete listing is available online.
1. Contestants must be Male/Transmen and have reached 21 by Feb.13, 2021. As proof of age, a copy of the contestant’s valid Iowa driver’s license must be available to the Pageant Coordinator if requested. 2. Contestants must be a legal resident of the state of Iowa for at least 6 months. Contestants must also live within a 100-mile radius of Kings and Queens Club, to qualify. GG