Weekend Preview: Luck of the Irish Edition

TNG Events Editor Jolly brings you the 411 on the upcoming weekend's events every Thursday afternoon.

My father is 100% Italian-American. Unfortunately, the only thing to clue others into this fact is my last name, which, incidentally, gets me laughed out of most romance language-speaking countries. Instead, my features tend toward the leprechaun-esque, reflecting the tiny 1/8 of my heritage which is vaguely Scotch-Irish. The only time this comes in handy is in March, around St. Patrick’s Day, when people assume I’m thoroughly Irish.

So that’s my plan for the weekend – wander out into DC and fake Celtic origin in preparation for Tuesday. Apparently mobbing local Irish establishments is everyone else’s plan too, as we’re a little light on events for this weekend. But we make up in quality what we lack in quantity! Know of an event that hasn’t made it onto the calendar yet? Leave the details in the comments below or email them to events@thenewgay.net.

Tonight:

• Get your name out there, meet some new people, and maybe even get a new job at PEN’s Mega LGBT Networking Event. Details: Town Danceboutique, 2009 8th Street NW, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Free.
Friday:

• Let your crative juices flow and support girls rocking out at EPIC DC's Pottery Painting Fundraiser to Benefit Girls Rock! DC. Details: Color Me Mine, 2439 18th Street NW #1, 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Saturday:

• Celebrate MIXTAPE’s new night and venue and get your dance on in the process. Details: The Warehouse, 1021 7th Street NW (between New York Ave and L Street), 9:30 p.m. - 2:30 a.m., $4, 21+.
Bonus – Monday:

• Learn more about the negative effects of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell during an appearance by researcher, author, professor and popular Daily Show guest Nathaniel Frank at Lambda Rising. Details: Lambda Rising Bookstore, 1625 Connecticut Ave., 6:30 p.m., Free.

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Weekend Preview: Spring Forward Edition

TNG Events Editor Jolly brings you the low down on the weekend to come every Thursday afternoon.

Happy Thursday! It's been a crazy week already - March began, actual snow fell and now it's starting to feel downright Spring-like. Take advantage of the nice weather while it's here this weekend and get out and enjoy some of the best that DC has to offer. And be sure to make the most of your time: Sunday marks the beginning of Daylight Saving Time, so we lose an hour of partying. On the other hand, if your goal is to party 'til 5AM, then your mission will get a little bit easier.

Below are a few suggestions of ways to spend your weekend. Got an event that TNG readers may be interested in? Leave the details below or email them to events@thenewgay.net!

Tonight:

• Acclaimed gay Carribean author Thomas Glave will be reading from his latest book, The Torturer's Wife, tonight at Lambda Rising. Details: Lambda Rising, 1625 Connecticut Ave NW, 6:30 pm, Free.

• Grab some friends and a bite to eat tonight at one of the local restaurants participating in Dining Out for Life and help support Food & Friends and those in need in our area.

• Join Whole DC for their class entitled "Romance for The Rest of Us" featuring Reid Mihalko. Also, enter to win some free tickets while you're at it! Details: Darlington House Library, 1610 20TH St NW, 7:00pm - 9:00pm, Tickets are $15 and can be purchased here.

Friday:

• Local lady band Turboslut plays tonight at Silver Spring's Corpse Fortress. Details: The Corpse Fortress, 906 Philadelphia St, Silver Spring, Maryland, 9:00pm, $5.

Saturday:

• Party all night and into the wee hours of the morning at Hometown Heroes. Details: Trinidad and Tobago, 5123 Georgia Ave. NW, 10:00PM-5:00AM, $10 before 1:00AM, $15 after, 18+ to dance, 21+ to drink.

• Enjoy a gender-bending night of frivolity and flirtation celebrating Purim at GLOE's Purim Party. Details: Washington DCJCC, 16th and Q Streets NW, 9:00PM, $10 online tickets, $12 at the door, Costume Optional.

• Take a ride with Capital Queer Prom and have the queer prom experience you never had, all the while helping to support a worthy organization. Details: Spirit of Mount Vernon, Pier 4, 6th and Water St, SW, 7:30PM, $50 - tickets can be purchased online or at Lambda Rising OR you can enter to win them.

• Get in the game and attend Whole DC's "Dating to Win" Details: District Wellness Group, 1608 20th St., NW, Third Floor, 2:00PM, Tickets are $20 and can be purchased here.

• Once you've figured out dating, take your relationship to the next level and learn about "Negotiating Successful Threesomes." Details: District Wellness Group, 1608 20th St., NW, Third Floor, 7:00PM, Tickets are $20 and can be purchased here.

• Take part in Thumb Wars, a two-hour long event which features local drag celebrity Shi-queeta Lee refereeing simultaneous thumb wrestling matches amidst projections of short films about thumb wrestling on the gallery walls. TNG's own Summer Camp takes on Heidi Ho at 3pm - don't miss it! Details: Transformer Gallery, 1404 P Street, NW, 2:00PM - 4:00PM, Free.

Sunday:

• Finish off you weekend with some great music as local queer musician Mara Levi plays The Red & The Black. Details: The Red & The Black, 1212 H St NE, 7:00PM, $8, 21+.

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Weekend Preview: In Like a Lion Edition

TNG Events Editor Jolly brings you the 411 on the weekend's events every Thursday afternoon.

Happy Thursday, everyone! Who's got two thumbs and is ready for the weekend? This guy! We've come to the end of the shortest month of the year and by the time you return to work on Monday (boo, hiss, etc.) it will be March. If you've happened to wander outside today, you know we're getting a little preview of warmer days to come. If this is our "lion" phase I can't wait to see what "lamb" is like.

This weekend there are a ton of events to help you celebrate March, a belated Fat Tuesday, or simply the end of another week. So, check out below for the best of what the next few days have to offer around DC. Got an event TNG readers should know about? Leave the details in the comments below or email them to events@thenewgay.net.

Friday

• Take a crash course in pleasure with Anal Pleasure 101 featuring Tristan Taormino. Details: Hotel Helix, 14th Ave & Rhode Island NW, 7:00-9:00PM, $25.

Saturday

• Learn more about starting and maintaining an open relationship with a free reading by Tristan Taormino and Jenny Block. Details: Georgetown University (ICC 115), 7:00-9:00PM. Free. All Ages.

• When you're done getting your read on, get your party on, meet the authors and help out Women Empowered Against Violence (WEAVE) at the PolyAfterParty. Details: Be:Bar, 1318 9th Street NW, 9:00PM, $10, 18+ to enter, 21+ to drink.

• Take a magical journey to outer space at CRACK: Journey To Uranus. Details: TOWN Danceboutique, 2009 8th Street NW, Doors 9:00PM / Show 10:00PM, $8 (includes admission to TOWN after show), 21+.

• Party hop your way to SHIFTdc's Kickoff Dance Party and keep TNG's Michael and Zack company. Details: Cobalt,1639 R St NW (enter through the side door), 10:00PM, no cover before 11:00 pm /$5 after, 21+.

• Celebrate the creativity of the Harlem Renaissance and the beauty of Paris at the Alliance Française de Washington's "When Harlem Came to Paris" event. Details: Alliance Française de Washington, 2142 Wyoming Avenue NW, 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM, $55.00 members/$65.00 non-members.

Sunday

• Enjoy a wonderful evening of poetry and music at "Poems and Dreams" in Memory of Cheryl A. Spector. Details: The Dennis & Phillip Ratner Museum, 10001 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, 5:00PM, $20 General/$15 Students.

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Weekend Preview: Holiday Hangover Edition

TNG Events Editor Jolly gives you the rundown of this weekend's events.

Good news: It's the weekend! This week has been a short one for many of you (lucky) after this past Monday's holiday. In fact, there were two holidays to celebrate last weekend. You might be thinking that after such a double-header, this weekend may never stack up.

But it doesn't have to be that way! There are tons of random holidays no one has ever heard of which can be a cause for celebration. For instance, did you know that today is National Chocolate Mint Day? Need something to wash those Peppermint Patties down? Then celebrate National Margarita Day on Sunday! Speaking of Sunday, be sure to honor Be Humble Day by watching the Academy Awards, the most self-indulgent non-humble event in Hollywood. And I'll see you tomorrow at noon for Hoodie Hoo Day (unfortunately, from what I can gather, this was not created by my favorite Top Chef-testant, Carla) at which time everyone will holler "Hoodie-Hoo" to chase away winter and make way for spring.

Whatever you're celebrating this weekend, there are plenty of events below to help you do it. Got an event to add? Leave the details in the comments below or send them along to events@thenewgay.net.

Today

• Join TNG's own Craig for a reading and signing of his new book, Sea, Swallow Me as part of the Outwrite Author Series. Details: The DC Center, 1111 14th Street NW, Suite 350, 7:00PM, Free.

• Get a jump on Saturday's Homo/Sonic and join us for our My Dear Disco Party at Solly's. Details: Solly's, 1942 11th St. NW, 8 p.m.-12 a.m., Free, 21+.

Friday

• Participate in some covert-ops with Guerilla Queer Bar DC's next-to-last event tonight at Recessions. Details: Recessions, 1823 L ST, NW, 8pm, Free, 21+.

• Challenge your brain and support a great cause at EPIC DC's Qweer Qwiz Night. Details: Be:Bar, 1318 9th Street NW, 8PM, $10.

Saturday

• Get into the discussion about urban gardening in DC at the Rooting DC Urban Gardening Forum 2009. Details: Carnegie Library, 801 K Street NW, 10AM - 4PM, Free.

• Shake your groove thing at this month's Homo/Sonic featuring queer-fronted band My Dear Disco tonight at the Black Cat. Details: Black Cat Mainstage, 1811 14th St. NW, 9:30 PM, All Ages, $10.

• Can't get enough queer-friendly dancing? Then make the night a double-header and check out MIX-TAINT, the best of Mixtape and TAINT at DC9. Details: DC9, 1940 9th Street NW, 9PM, 21+, $5.

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Weekend Preview: "Call It Lover's Day" Edition

TNG Events Editor Jolly brings you visions of weekend-events-to-come every Thursday afternoon.

R. Buckminster Fuller once said, "Love is omni-inclusive, progressively exquisite, understanding and tender and compassionately attuned to other than self." And I believe it was The J. Geils Band in the early 80s who eloquently informed us that "Love Stinks."

It seems that this time of year tends to send people flocking to one extreme or the other. Valentine's Day generally triggers my meh-reflex: it's kind of silly to get all worked up one day a year when you should be showing your love everyday, but getting angry and contemplating attacking happy couples on the street at random also takes way more enthusiasm than I'm willing to invest. I'm planning on eating red velvet cupcakes and taking in a crappy rom-com this Saturday, and you're welcome to join.

Anyway, whether Cupid's got you in a chokehold or "Single Ladies" is your anthem of choice for the weekend, there are plenty of upcoming events to meet your needs. Know something we don't? Send the details to events@thenewgay.net or leave them in the comments below!

Today

• Learn about the history of the gay rights movement here in the District at "Gay Is Good": Stonewall-Era Activism in Washington, D.C. at the University of Maryland. Details: Art-Sociology 2309, University of Maryland, 5:00PM, Free.

Friday

• Join the discussion at the 16th Annual Lavender Languages & Linguistics Conference at American University which begins today. And be sure to check out the pre-conference workshop, "Is Hope Enough?" Details: American University, February 12th-15th.

• Imperial China, whose lead singer, Brian Porter, was the subject of our first ever "Ask a Straight Guy," play the Rock and Roll Hotel. Details: Rock and Roll Hotel, 1353 H Street, NE, 9:00PM, $10.

• Interested in sex, spirituality, and BDSM? Then join in on the fun at Dark Odyssey's Winter Fire '09 Valentine's Weekend event, which begins on Friday Night.

Saturday

• Spend your Valentine's Day with TNG's Michael and Zack as they DJ Mousetrap. Details: Black Cat Mainstage, 1811 14th St., NW, 9:30 PM, All Ages, $10.

• Share the love at the Big Love Gala to benefit the Mautner Project. Details: Omni Shoreham Hotel,2500 Calvert St. NW, 6:30PM, $200 ($125 tax-deductible).

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Weekend Preview: Happy February! Edition

TNG Events Editor Jolly brings you the weekend 411.

It’s almost the weekend yet again, and that means we’re about to wrap up the first full week of February, 2009. Really? Is it just me or does it seems like New Year’s was just yesterday? Maybe I just need to drink less, but January seemed like a blur to me.

Anyway, there are some great events going down this weekend to help you celebrate the beginning of the shortest (and most annoyingly-spelled) month of the year or get your mind off of where exactly the first 31 days of 2009 went.

As always, if you know something we don’t about an event which might interest TNG readers, leave the details in comments or send them along to events@thenewgay.net and we’ll get them on the calendar ASAP.

Friday

• Bust out the neon and the side ponytail and indulge in some good ol’ 80s Mayhem at the Black Cat. Details: The Black Cat Mainstage, 1811 14th St. NW, 9:00PM, $10.


Saturday

• Let yourself eat cake for a good cause at the 37th Annual Scarlet's Bake Sale. Details: DC Eagle, 639 New York Avenue NW, 5:00PM.

• Kick it old school at the KIDS Hip Hop Dance Party. Details: DC9, 1940 9th St. NW. 9:00PM, 21+, free before 10:00PM.

• Blowoff some steam at BLOWOFF gay dance party featuring the DJ Sounds of Bob Mould & Richard Morel at the 9:30 Club. Details: 9:30 Club, 815 V ST. N.W., 11:30PM, 21+, $12.

Sunday

• Join TNG reader Sabri and other queer crafters at the Crafts and Kisses Valentine's craft show at the Josephine Butler Parks Center. Details: Josephine Butler Parks Center, 2437 15th St NW, 12:00PM-6:00PM.

• Are you a college student in the DC-area who might be interested in created a network of campus activists for queer equality? Then attend a meeting of Equality, Campus Style at noon at the DC Center. Details: DC Center, 1111 14th Street, NW, 12:00PM, RSVP to equalitycampusstyle@gmail.com.

• TNG fave Cat Power plays the 9:30 Club - tickets are sold out, but maybe you won a couple! Details: 9:30 Club, 815 V ST. N.W., 7:00PM

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Weekend Preview: Snow and Football Edition

TNG Events Editor Jolly brings you the weekend 411.


Happy Almost-Weekend! The big event of this first full week (ugh) following the Inauguration was a snow event (see what I did there?) and The. Big. Game. is looming on the horizon. But there are lots of great things to do in between and below are just a few. So crawl out of your ice cave, strap on some pads (if you’re into that kind of thing) and do the weekend right!

As always, if you know something we don’t about an event which might interest TNG readers, leave the details in comments or send them along to events@thenewgay.net and we’ll get them on the calendar ASAP.


Saturday

• Find your perfect mate at the DC Jewish Community Center’s same-sex Jewish speed dating event. Details: DCJCC, 1529 Sixteenth Street, 7:30pm, Tickets Required.

• Join TNG for our monthly Homo/Sonic! Your daily hit of Alice Remix crack included! Details: Black Cat Mainstage, Saturday Jan 31, 9:30 PM, $10, All Ages.

Sunday

• Super Bowl Sunday! Not many events planned for the day since everyone will be glued to their TVs, but if you want to watch the big game with other queer guys and gals, local establishments like Phase 1 and Nellie’s will be having specials. And if football’s not your thing, you’re welcome to join me in watching the Puppy Bowl instead (I’m predicting Buster will be the break-out player of the game).

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Weekend Preview: Hope/Change Edition

Well, we made it! We survived the Inaugu-pocalypse and we’ve ushered in a new era in American politics. Only yesterday we were nursing our Hope/Change (Honge? Chape?) hangovers and it’s already time to start thinking about the weekend! Does this mean there are going to be more weekends in the Obama administration? Because that would we change we can believe in.

Anyway, check out below for some of the going-ons this weekend. As always, if you know something we don’t about an event which might interest TNG readers, leave the details in comments or send them along to events@thenewgay.net and we’ll put them on the calendar.

Friday

• Take a trip up to Baltimore for the opening night of Charm City Kitty Club’s new show Frisky Business, featuring the creative stylings of Andrea Gibson, Strange Powers, Angie Head and many more! Details: Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave., Baltimore, 7pm Kitty Cocktails, 8pm Show, $12, $10 C. A. members, 21+.


Saturday

• Learn how to get your words out at mothertongue’s free writing workshop at Flashpoint. Details: Flashpoint, 916 G St, NW, 11:30am – 4:30pm, No Experience Necessary, Free, All Ages.

• Join artists Lisa Marie Thalhammer and DECOY as they celebrate the opening of the LIFEGUARD exhibition. Details: Hounshell Real Estate, 1506 14th Street NW, 6-9pm.

• Resist the kryptonite and sing along with queer hip hop duo Yo! Majesty tonight at the Black Cat. And don’t forget to enter to win free tickets! Details: Black Cat Mainstage, 1811 14th St. NW, 9:30PM - 2:00AM, $15, All Ages.

• Show TNG’s own Zack some love as he guest DJ’s at BLISS Dance Party at the Black Cat. Details: Black Cat Backstage, 1811 14th St. NW, 9:30PM - 2:00AM, $7, All Ages.

• DJs Matt Bailer and Shea Van Horn from MIXTAPE, the alternative dance party for queer guys and gals and their pals, are bringing their music to Nellie's Sports Bar. They will be spinning an eclectic mix of alternative, electro, indie, and pop music while folks eat french fries, drink beer, and watch sporty-type things. Details: Nellie's Sports Bar, 900 U Street, 10pm - 2:30am, No Cover, 21+.

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Weekend Preview: Inauguration Edition

Well, here it is – the weekend we’ve all be waiting for/dreading: the Inauguration. Whether you’re excited about the parades, balls and general history-making merriment, or terrified by the charter buses, the Metro at CRUSH CAPACITY and the idea of sharing a toilet with 6,848 other people, or a little of both – this weekend is sure to be one to remember. For those of you not going on vacation, we’ve got a great line-up of events to keep ball-hoppers, bar flies and music-lovers alike busy.

Tonight

• Enjoy a few after-work drinks and support a great cause at Homo Hotel Happy Hour’s HH to benefit GLOV. Details: Carlyle Suites, 1731 New Hampshire Ave NW, free, 5:30 – 9:00pm, 21+.

• Kick the weekend off right with TNG at our party tonight at Solly’s. Details: Solly's, 1942 11th St. NW, free, 8 p.m.-12 a.m., 21+.

• TNG favorites Los Campesinos! play tonight at Baltimore's Ottobar with Titus Andronicus. Details: Ottobar, 2549 N. Howard St. Baltimore, Doors: 8pm, Show: 9pm, $12, All Ages.

Friday

• Pull a Sarah Palin and “go rogue” with Guerilla Queer Bar and help them take over an unsuspecting straight bar (in this case, The Exchange Saloon) for the night. Details: The Exchange Saloon, 1719 G Street NW, 9pm, 21+.

Saturday

• Join the fine folks at Mixtape, the alternative dance party for queer guys and gals and their pals, as they road-test a new venue in Adams Morgan, True Story. Details: True Story Tavern (formerly Angry Inch), 2450 18th Street NW, No Cover, 10p.m.-3a.m., 21+.

• Blow off some steam at the Blowoff, the dance party for those interested in leather and those interested in those interested in leather, at the 9:30 Club. And don't forget to enter for a chance to win free tickets!. Details: 9:30 Club, 815 V ST NW, 11:30pm, $12, 21+.

Sunday

• Queer musician Catie Curtis will be in town, playing an intimate session for her fans at Lambda Rising bookstore. Details: Lambda Rising Bookstore, 1625 Connecticut Ave NW, Free, 2pm, All Ages.

• Make a day out of supporting great queer music at 3Word House’s Concert featuring Gina Young with an intimate screening of The L Word to follow.

• Join the party and celebrate the premiere of The L Word at Phase 1. Details: Phase 1, 525 8th St. SE, No Cover, 21+.

Monday

• Don't have tickets to any of the Inaugural balls? Well, Phase 1 has got your ticket all right. Join them for an alternative inaugural ball, and be sure to dress to impress. Details: Phase 1, 525 8th St. SE, $5-$10, 21+.

• Celebrate two great days in one at the Inaugural/MLK Day TAINT. Details: DC9, 1940 9th Street, 9:00pm, 21+.

Tuesday

• Celebrate the big day with the DC Arts community at The Art of Change event at the Warehouse Arts Complex. Details: Warehouse Arts Complex, 1017-1021 7th Street NW, 8:00pm, $50, tickets required.

• Rock out for the new administration at Phase 1's Inaugural Queer Rock event, featuring Gina Young, Thomasina and the Jam, and the Shondes. Details: Phase 1, 525 8th Street, SE, Doors: 7pm, Show: 9pm, $10, 21+.

These are just a taste of some of some of the queer and queer-friendly events going on this weekend. Know of any others you think everyone should hear about? Leave the details in comments or email them to events@thenewgay.net. Have a happy and safe Inauguration weekend, and we hope to see you out at Solly's tonight!

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Weekend Preview: Back to the Grind

Welcome back to Weekend Preview! Now that all the holiday shindigs are over, it's time to get back to real life. And we've got some great events to help ease you into the transition. Just as we need help with content and editing, we also need you to keep us up-to-date on all events going on in the area. It’s never too late to get something on the calendar – leave any last minute info in the comments or send the deets to events@thenewgay.net.

Friday:

• Tour buses aren't the only thing taking the District by storm in the coming days. Perhaps the world's most famous lady-loving DJ, Samantha Ronson, will be in DC Friday night, exclusively at Lux Lounge. Details: Lux Lounge, 649 New York Avenue NW, 9:00pm, 21+.

• Get your futuristic freak on at the The Dutch Oven 2009 Space Odyssey Burlesque Show at the Palace of Wonders. Details: Palace of Wonders, 1210 H St. NE, 10:00pm, $10.

Saturday:

• Make your voice heard and help send a clear message to the Obama administration at Join the Impact's campaign to collect signatures against DoMA. Details: Dupont Circle Park, 1:30pm.

• Clark Sabine (a TNG interview veteran) and his band, Statehood, are playing the Rock and Roll Hotel this weekend. Check them out and support a TNG favorite. Details: Rock and Roll Hotel, 1353 H Street NE,, 9:30pm, All Ages, $10.

• Dance the night away at the Black Cat's super queer-friendly monthly Britpop dance party, Mousetrap. Details: Black Cat Mainstage, 1811 14th St NW, 9:30pm, All Ages, $10.

Sunday:

• Take a flight in style with DC's Most Fabulous Magazine's First Class Sundays' Take off event at Fly Lounge. Details: Fly Lounge, 1802 Jefferson Place, NW, 4-9pm, 21+, Free.

• Take a humorous and poignant look into a often overlooked community at a free screening of Catherine Pancake's "Jay Dreams," sponsored by Women in the Life. Details: Busboys and Poets, 2021 14th St., NW, 8:00pm, All Ages, Free.

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Weekend Preview: Peace Out, 2008! Edition

While TNG’s continuing on its holiday hiatus until January 5th, we didn’t want to leave you hangin’ in terms of end-of-the-year events. If you’ve got any more events to share, email us and we’ll update our calendar or you can leave them in the comments section below. Look below the fold for what’s goin’ on in the next week or so!


Tonight

• Christmas carols getting old? Dancing with your grandparents not as fun as it used to be? Then check out Taint, the monthly electro-rock indie dance night with an assortment of queer performance and video art thrown in for good measure, tonight at DC9. Details: DC9, 1940 9th Street NW, 9:00pm, 21+, $5.

December 30th

• Wanna celebrate the new year out in DC but not thrilled by the idea of bar-hopping and cab-finding on NYE? The come out and celebrate with TNG a day early at the Black Cat. We'll have a champagne toast and special guest DJ junebullet. Details: Black Cat Backstage, 1811 14th St NW, 9:00pm, All Ages, No Cover.

December 31st

• Looking for a truly customizable NYE celebration? The join Ganymede Arts Center for their New Year’s Eve bash. Details: Source Theatre, 1835 14th Street NW, 9:00pm.

January 3rd

• Join TNG in kicking off 2009 with the first Homo/Sonic of the year! Details: Black Cat Mainstage, 1811 14th St NW, 9:30pm, All Ages, $10.

TNG wishes everyone a happy and safe New Year!

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Weekend Preview: The Return

Don’t call it a comeback – Weekend Preview is back after a couple of weeks of being MIA! Hope you didn’t miss us too much. Anyway, look below for a roundup of what you’ll be up to this weekend.


Tonight:

• Hear Dr. Brett Abrams deliver a presentation called Hollywood Babylon: Gays & Lesbians in the Cinema. The event is sponsored by Rainbow History Project at the Charles Sumner School. Details: 1201 17th Street, 6:30-8:30pm.

• Be part of the dialogue at DC for Marriage’s Community Discussion on Marriage in DC, moderated by Sean Bugg, co-publisher of Metro Weekly, at the HRC Equality Center. The event is co-sponsored by Bilerico.com, GLAA, Gertrude Stein Democratic Club, Human Rights Campaign and Log Cabin Republicans - DC. Check out their Facebook page or contact Michael Crawford at michael@dcformarriage.com for more information. Details: 1640 Rhode Island Avenue NW, 7-9pm.

Friday:

• Make your voice heard at the D.C. Council's Committee on Public Safety and the Judiciary hearing on hate crimes, meant to discuss the law enforcement and judicial responses to hate crimes in the District. Details: 5th Floor Council Chambers, John A. Wilson Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., 12pm.

• Break out your least worrisome outfit and head over to Halo to party the night away with OUT for Work and Tim Gunn. OUT for Work is an organization dedicated to helping members of the gay community network and easily transition from academia to the workplace through preparation and empowerment and the event is co-sponsored by the Greater Washington Fashion Chamber of Commerce. Tickets can be purchased online. Details: 1435 P St. NW. 6-8pm.

Saturday:

• Get socialized outside of a bar with the Saturgays in the Park “Field Trip” to the “Women of Our Time: Twentieth Century Photographs” special exhibit at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery. Everyone’s meeting at the Robert and Arlene Kogod Courtyard at 2:00 to have drinks and get caught up, then heading in to get some culture around 3:00. Check out the event's Facebook page for more information.

• Come dance the night away with Soft Complex and TNG’s latest dance party at the Rock and Roll Hotel. The first part of the night will include sets from Jupiter One, The Cedars and DC's own queer-fronted, new wave inspired Soft Complex. Immediately following the show will be a dance party deejayed by Natty Boom and regular DJs Zack and Michael. Don't forget to RSVP on Facebook. Details: 1353 H Street NE, 9pm, $10.

Sunday:

• Rock out at a free screening of Girls Rock at the Avalon. The event includes the screening, a performance by a Bach to Rock band, and a raffle for a Daisy Rock guitar and other prizes. Details: 5612 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC., 10:30am.

Did we miss anything? Let us know! Have a good weekend and we hope to see you out on Saturday!

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Weekend Preview: Back in Business

I apologize to all two of you who might have noticed that I didn't post a weekend preview last week. Luckily, I'm back and better than ever ... or something. Anyway, let's get to business.

Tonight:

• Transgender Day of Remembrance event at Metropolitan Community Church: DC's observance of the 10th annual Transgender Day of Remembrance will take place tonight. Please attend. For more information, read the TNG post on the subject or visit the DC Center's website. Details: Metropolitan Community Church, 474 Ridge St. NW, 6:30 p.m.

• TNG Apolitical Women's Party at Asylum: It's a TNG night for the ladies. Mingle with lesbian/bisexual/queer women -- and probably queer men and straight allies -- and meet some of the faces behind TNG, including the person responsible for this party, Amelie. TNG fave DJ Natty Boom will be supplying the music. Details: Asylum basement, 2471 18th St. NW, 8 p.m., free, 21+.

Friday:

• The TNG calendar is empty for November 21. Let us know what's going on in the comments or e-mail events@thenewgay.net. Don't forget to check out the regular, weekly events we took the time to list for you, such as Fab Fridays at Fab Lounge.

Saturday:

• Red Light Source at Source: Celebrate the grand opening of the newly renovated Source theater. DJ Neville Chamberlain of Saint-Ex and Marvin fame will be spinning, and there will be a midnight cabaret featuring performances by the Washington Improv Theater and Special Agent Galactica. Oh, and don't worry about getting drunk beforehand -- just hit up the cash bar. Details: Source, 1835 14th St. NW, 10 p.m., $20 in advance/$25 at the door, 21+.

Sunday:

• Inside the Activists' Studio at the 6th & I Synagogue: A group of collaborators from various progressive Jewish nonprofits will be hosting a day of workshops and a panel highlighting young activists in the District. Here's your chance to gain insight into effectively ending hate crimes and fighting against Proposition 8, in addition to the many other issues discussed on TNG. Check out the event's website for the schedule and registration information. You definitely don't have to be Jewish to benefit from this. Details: 6th & I Syanagogue, 600 I St. NW, 3:30 p.m.-8 p.m., free, all ages.

• Source Community Open House at Source: Stop by Source's open house for a chance to check out performances, classes, and workshops. This can be the weekend you finally learn a few Latin dance moves. For the complete schedule of events, check out Source's website. Details: Source, 1835 14th St. NW, all day long, free, all ages.

That's it. Let us know what we missed. Have a good weekend.

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Weekend Events: Happy Halloween!

Confession: I'm not a huge Halloween person. I don't like boring/traditional/sexy costumes, but I'm not clever enough to come up with a creative costume. That said, I'm still riding a sugar high and ready to get dressed up and go out tonight.

With this weekend preview, I want to try something a bit different. Because the calendar of events is looking a bit sad right now, I want you to tell us what's going on. Let us know about Halloween parties, political gatherings, dance parties, afternoon activities, whatever. Just make sure the events are somehow related to what The New Gay is all about. Leave your suggestions in the comments or send an e-mail to events@thenewgay.net.

However, if you can't live without a TNG weekend preview, follow the jump.

Tonight:

• CRACK Halloween Costume Party at Duplex Diner: If you're in the mood for a classic, over-the-top Halloween bash, this is the party to attend. Read more about it on TNG and Facebook. When getting dressed tonight, keep in mind that there will be prizes for the best, sexiest, and worst costumes. Details: Duplex Diner, 2004 18th St. NW, 9 p.m., free, 21+.

Saturday:

• Mass Appeal at Rock and Roll Hotel: It's once again time for AutoRock's monthly dance party. This time, he'll be joined by special guest Micah Vellian, one half of local duo Dmerit. For more information, check out TNG and Facebook. Details: Rock and Roll Hotel, 1353 H St. NE, upstairs, 9:30 p.m., free, 21+.

Sunday:

• Gather your friends and discuss the weekend's highlights over brunch.

That's it. Seriously, leave your weekend suggestions in the comments. Have a good weekend!

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Weekend Events: Dance Parties and Magnetic Fields

I hope everyone made it to work on time following last night's Queers Rock! It was a good start to a weekend filled with queer events. Here are TNG's picks ...

Tonight:

• Guerilla Queer Bar at The Tombs: The queer crowd is venturing to the edge of Georgetown University's campus to take over a pub. Check out Facebook for more information. Details: The Tombs, 1226 36th St. NW, 9 p.m., free, 21+.

• Shake the Foundations at the Looking Glass Lounge: Gavin Malette will be kicking off Shake the Foundations, a new monthly queer dance party. Expect a mix of soul, R&B, funk, post-punk, and more. Details: Looking Glass Lounge, 3634 Georgia Ave. NW, 9 p.m., free, 21+. (Ed.- Thanks for the correction, Gavin.)

Saturday:

• ANTHEM at Fab Lounge: DJs Oochie Ollie and Kofi are throwing a monthly queer dance party every fourth Saturday starting this weekend. As much as I mock Fab, this sounds like it could be a lot of fun. Preview the music they'll be spinning at Mixwit. Details: Fab Lounge, 1805 Connecticut Ave., 2nd floor, 10 p.m., free, 21+.

• Mirah at the Black Cat: Mirah, considered by AfterEllen to be "one of the most prolific and consistent queer singer/songwriters of modern times," will be performing with the No Kids. Details: Black Cat, 1811 14th St. NW, 9 p.m., $15, all ages.

Sunday:

• Magnetic Fields at GW Lisner Auditorium: No description needed. Details: GW Lisner Auditorium, 730 21st St., 8 p.m., $35, all ages.

That's all. Don't forget to check out the weekly events listed on TNG's calendar, and keep in mind that Reel Affirmations runs through Saturday. Leave any events we missed in the comments. Have a good weekend!

(I'd like to thank my favorite "lesbro" for sending me this week's weekend preview image.)

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Weekend Events: Reel Affirmations, Politics, and More

It's Friday, I'm pleased with the picture I selected to run with this preview, and it feels like fall today, so I'm in a surprisingly pleasant mood. Although it's a good weekend to head out of the city and pick apples or hit up a pumpkin patch, make sure you save time to check out some TNG-approved events. The big thing this weekend (and next week) is the Reel Affirmations LGBT film festival. We can't list every movie here, but visit the RA website for schedule and ticket information. Read on for the rest of TNG's picks.

Tonight:

• Homo Hotel Happy Hour at the Madison Hotel: The 4HClub will be celebrating its one-year anniversary tonight with extended hours and the song selections of Mixtape DJs Matt Bailer and Shea Van Horn. Read more about Homo Hotel Happy Hour on TNG and Facebook. Details: Madison Hotel, 1177 15th St. NW, 6-10 p.m., free, 21+.

• Civilians for Obama at Civilian Art Projects: I like Barack Obama a lot. If you do too (and you're not completely broke), head to this event tonight. Listen to good music while checking out the Obama-inspired work of more than 40 artists. Read more on TNG. Details: Civilian Art Projects, 406 7th St., 9 p.m.-12 a.m., $25 (for Obama support and drinks), 21+.

Saturday:

• Dreams Deferred -- The Sakia Gunn Film Project at the Goethe-Institut: You can read about this film screening and accompanying panel discussion on TNG. It's definitely worth checking out and it's free, so you have no excuse. Details: Goethe-Institut, 812 7th St. NW, 5 p.m., free, all ages.

• Mixtape at Dahlak: I think I ended up at Mixtape for a bit last month on my birthday. It was crowded (in a good way) and everyone was dancing. Check it out and read more about Mitxtape on TNG. Dahlak, 1771 U St. NW, 10 p.m., free, 21+.

Sunday:

• Lykke Li at the Black Cat: According to Zack, "It's Lykke Li week at The New Gay!" End your weekend with a trip to the Black Cat to see what all the fuss is about. Details: Black Cat, 1811 14th St. NW, $15, 8 p.m., all ages.

That's it. You know the drill -- let us know what we missed in the comments. Have a good weekend.

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Weekend Events: Rain, Rain, Go Away

It's raining. I'm cold. I have a ton of work to do. I'm grumpy. So, today's weekend preview is going to be brief. Read on for your weekend fun, and leave your suggestions in the comments.

Tonight:

• Guerilla Queer Bar at Rocket Bar: The queer crowd is taking over a "straight" bar again. Rocket Bar, 714 7th St. NW, 9 p.m., free, 21+.

• Lez Zeppelin at the State Theatre: This surprisingly popular all-girl Led Zeppelin tribute band has a local show. State Theatre, 220 N. Washington St., Falls Church, 9 p.m., $19, 18+.

• Holly Woodlawn at the Church Street Theater: Ganymede's GLBT Fall Arts Festival starts tonight, and Holly Woodlawn kicks off the festivities. Holly first became famous in the 1970s with a role in Andy Warhol's Trash, and now she performs a cabaret act. Church Street Theater, 1742 Church St. NW, 8 p.m., $30, all ages.

Saturday:

• Life Underground (A Warhol/Morrisey Film Event) at the Church Street Theater: Ganymede and Reel Affirmations will be presenting an evening of film clips and discussion about the underground film movement. Church Street Theater, 1742 Church St. NW, 7 p.m., $15, all ages.

Sunday:

• Try your best to win free tickets to the Juan MacLean show at the Black Cat on Monday.

• We Are Hip Hop Too (WAHHT!) at Pure: WAHHT is a network of queer women in the music industry working to help each other thrive in the hip-hop, R&B, soul, and spoken-word genres. Check out an hour-long showcase of hip hop and soul on Sunday with Reina Williams and K. Love. Pure, 1326 U St., 10:30 p.m., free before 10 p.m./$10 after 10 p.m., 21+.

That's it. I urge you to attend the Candlelight Vigil for Tony Randolph Hunter on Sunday evening. Have a good weekend.

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Weekend Events: Make Out and Listen to Music

It's only Thursday, but if you're like me -- and the above cat -- you've been ready for the weekend since Monday. From tonight's TNG mixer to the ongoing Phasefest, there's plenty going on in the next few days, so be sure to follow the jump and read about TNG's picks for the weekend.

Tonight:

• TNG "Queer PDA" Party at Solly's: If you've been looking for an excuse to drunkenly make out with your crush, tonight's your night. This month's TNG mixer encourages public displays of affection in response to recent accounts of anti-gay violence. So come out tonight and be proud to hold hands, nuzzle, and kiss in public, or you can just stand in a corner and complain that you've already hooked up with everyone you consider attractive. Either way, enjoy the crowd, music, and reasonably priced drinks. Details: Solly's, 1942 11th St. NW, 8 p.m., no cover, 21+.


• Phasefest at Phase 1: You've gone to Slut Night and other benefits, and now it's time for the actual festival. Phasefest is an annual queer music and arts festival that started yesterday and runs through Saturday. Tonight's performers include Crys Matthews, Natalie E. Illum, Priscilla Rae, Good Asian Drivers (TNG interview), Thomasina & the Jam, and Bitch. Remember: Guys won't be hassled at the door if they show up without female escorts. Details: Phase 1, 525 8th St. SE, 7 p.m., $15 (festival pass is $50), 21+.

Friday:

• Love or Perish at the Velvet Lounge: If you want to reminisce about the glory days of riot grrrl and queercore bands, check out this show. Love or Perish was formed in 2006 when DC-native Molly Neuman, formerly of Bratmobile and the Frumpies, reunited with Carols Canedo, her old bandmate from the PeeChees. If you're not familiar with the band, preview their music on MySpace. Details: Velvet Lounge, 915 U St. NW, 10 p.m., $8, 18+.

• Phasefest at Phase 1: Highlights on Friday include performances by Nicky Click (TNG interview), Shunda K of Yo Majesty, and DJ Natty Boom (TNG interview). Check out the Phasefest website for the complete schedule. Details: Phase 1, 525 8th St. SE, 6 p.m., $15 (festival pass is $50), 21+.

Saturday:

• BLK w/ BEAR and VJ Poppins at Warehouse Second Stage: As part of Saturday's Arts On Foot festival, BLK w/ BEAR members JS Adams, a local queer artist, and Doug Poplin will present a series of temporal-prepared vinyl and turntable installations with a live video mix by VJ Poppins. Truthfully, I'm not sure what that means, but it sounds interesting and artsy. Details: Warehouse Second Stage, 1017-21 7th St. NW, 2 p.m., free, all ages.

• Phasefest at Phase 1: This is your last chance to catch Phasefest until next year. The night's featured performers include the DC Kings, Athens Boys Choir (preview on TNG), Mara Levi, and Alix Olson. Check out the Phasefest website for the complete schedule. Details: Phase 1, 525 8th St. SE, 2 p.m., $15 (festival pass is $50), 21+.

Sunday:

• Sonic Circuits Benefit III at Pyramid Atlantic: This show supports the Sonic Circuits Festival of Experimental Music, which starts September 28. Sunday's benefit features Ben Miller, Jonathan Zorn, and N_Drew. For more information about the performers and the Sonic Circuits mission, check out the organization's website. Details: Pyramid Atlantic, 8230 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, 7 p.m., $5, all ages.

That's it. Let us know what we missed at events@thenewgay.net or in the comments, and remember to check out the weekly events listed on the TNG calendar. Have a good weekend!

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Weekend Events: TNG Party! (And A Lot of Other Things)

Starting today, the TNG weekend preview will be posted on Thursday because I -- like many others -- like to pretend that Thursday is part of the weekend. The summer may be winding down, but don't let that affect your going-out schedule. There's a lot going on in the next few days, so read on for TNG's picks.

Tonight:

• TNG Cheap Beer Party at Solly's: TNG's love affair with cheap alcohol is no secret. If you share that sentiment, come to Solly's tonight and drink (or just hang out) with an assortment of queer and straight people, their friends, and, of course, your favorite TNG contributors. Don't forget: There will be $3 16 oz. cans of Miller High Life, the champagne of beers, from 8 to 9 p.m. Solly's, upstairs, 1942 11th St. NW, starts at 8 p.m., free (drinking Miller High Life is your choice), 21+.

• LBQQ Happy Hour at Nellie's: I'm Jewish, and I just recently found out about Nice Jewish Girls DC, a group comprised of local lesbian, bisexual, queer, and questioning women. They will be having their August happy hour tonight at Nellie's. The event doesn't start until 7 p.m., but there is a meet-up for new members at 6:30 p.m. Nellie's and Solly's are so close, so if you check out this event, it would only make sense to come to the TNG party afterward. Contact Rebecca at rebecca.berman@yahoo.com with any questions. Nellie's, 900 U St. NW, starts at 7 p.m., free, 21+.

• Since my Last Confession at Artfully Chocolate/Kingsbury Confections: Author Scott Pomfrett will be reading from his new book, Since My Last Confession, a Gay Catholic Memoir, as part of the OutWrite Author Series. Learn more about the author and his book on TNG. AKDC, 1529C 14th St. NW, starts at 8 p.m., free, all ages.

Friday:

• Guerilla Queer Bar at the Reef: It's time for the queer crowd to take over a typically straight bar again. If you've always dreamed of partying with your queer friends and the stereotypical Adams Morgan weekend crowd, here's your chance. Guerilla Queer Bar will fighting for a spot on the roof deck of the Reef. Get there early -- if it's a nice night, the deck will fill up fast. The Reef, 2556 18th St. NW, starts at 9 p.m., free, 21+.

• Riff Raff at the Black Cat: Riff Raff is DC's only queerpunk dance night, so expect DJs Joshua and Dean, along with special guests Ron M. and Tommy Hotpants, to spin punk, rock, hair metal, riot grrl, and whatever else they feel like playing. You should also expect to dance, get sweaty, and have a great night. Black Cat, backstage, 1811 14th St. NW, starts at 9:30 p.m., $5, all ages.

Saturday:

• The Summer Games at Meridian Hill Park: Inspired by the Olympics, the Saturgays are hosting their own Summer Games. If you've always fantasized about winning a medal, but have given up on the dream, this is the event for you. Check out the preview on TNG. Meridian Hill (Malcolm X) Park, 16th and W streets NW, starts at 3:30 p.m., free (though, you might pay in blood, sweat, and tears), all ages.

• BLISS at the Black Cat: BLISS is one of my favorite dance nights in DC, and this Saturday marks the monthly party's eight-year anniversary. As always, host DJ Will Eastman will be spinning indie, electro, club, Britpop, pop, and anything else you can dance to. This weekend, he will be joined by guest DJ Pogo and a live performance by Wallpaper. Check out the BLISS MySpace page for more information about what to expect. Black Cat, mainstage, 1811 14th St. NW, starts at 9:30 p.m., $10, all ages.

Sunday:

• Sonic Circuits Benefit II at Pyramid Atlantic: The eighth Sonic Circuits Festival of Experimental Music doesn't begin until Sept. 28 (we'll keep you posted), but for a preview, check out this benefit show. The festival, which was initiated by the American Composers Forum, features electroacoustic compositions, experimental jazz, noise rock, electronic drone, experimental rock, and live video an film programs. Sunday's benefit will feature Macaroon Five, Barsky/Allison, and T.A. Zook. Check out the Sonic Cicuits website for more information and to sample some of the music. Pyramid Atlantic, 8230 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, starts at 7 p.m., $5, all ages.

That's it. Let us know what we missed by e-mailing us or complaining in the comments. Have a good weekend, and remember to check out the weekly events listed on the TNG calendar.

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Weekend Events: Apes and Bears, Oh My!

This weekend's weather is supposed to be gorgeous -- mid-80s and barely any humidity -- so head to the beach if you can. However, if you'll be spending your weekend in the District, don't worry, there's plenty going on.

Tonight:

• Bear Invasion: The 12th annual Bear Invasion begins tonight with events happening all weekend long. The Invastion is headquartered at the Liaison Capitol Hill, but festivities will be happening all over the city. Although you need to be registered for some of the fun (registrants will be identified by their dog tags), events going on tonight at the DC Eagle and Green Latern are open to everyone. Get the full schedule on the Bear Invasion website and read more about it on TNG.


• The Apes at Comet: Celebrate the return of music at Comet Ping Pong tonight with a show headlined by the Apes. Read what TNG has to say about it here. Comet Ping Pong, 5037 Connecticut Ave. NW, doors at 9 p.m., $10, all ages.

Saturday:

• The Mirror Script at Velvet Lounge: If you haven't heard TNG-approved Mirror Script live yet, here's your chance. The band, fronted by local queer rocker Steve Scarlata, plays their own brand of moody rock. The group will take the stage around midnight, but get there early and stick around for Secret Pop Band, Boy Genius, and the breakUps. According to Facebook, there's a promised "bitchin' after party." Preview the concert at the Mirror Script's MySpace page. Velvet Lounge, 915 U St. NW, starts at 10 p.m., $8, 21+.

• The Saturgays will be at it again. No special event this weekend. Just show up at Malcolm X Park, 2 PM, at the east side of the big cascading fountain.
  

Sunday:

• Recover from the rest of the weekend, and check out the weekly events at Marvin and Quarry House listed on TNG's calendar.

Have a good weekend. Don't do anything too embarrassing. Let us know what we missed.

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