Hopefully by now you’ve realized our 2018 “Best of Austin” issue is out – on stands and online now! It’s safe to say, “Best Of” is my favorite issue The Austin Chronicle team puts out each year. (And a huge round of applause to our Editor-in-Chief and “BOA” editor Kim Jones for doing such a bang-up job on this one!)
But as the paper’s Qmmunity editor, I’m sure it comes as no surprise that I’m extra excited to see so many queer winners this year – in both the Readers Poll and Critics Picks! We all know Austin’s queer community is brimming with talented, creative, and awe-inspiring folks, but it’s always rad to see them get noticed! So, we’d like to give a big round of applause to all the queer’d winners in this year’s “BOA”! (And to everyone who voted for me – thank you, it really does make the hard work worth it!)
Best Graphic Artist: Lauren Dickens
Best Theatre Director: Lisa Scheps
Best Drag Performer: Louisianna Purchase
Best DJ: GirlFriend ATX
Best Bar for Singles, Intimate Live Music Venue, and LGBTQ Bar: Cheer Up Charlies
Best Nightlife Wildcard: Lesbian Wedding
Best Journalist: Sarah Marloff
Best Mani/Pedi: Cute Nail Studio
Best Hotel/Motel: Hotel San José
Best Psychic/Tarot: Sister Temperance Tarot
Best Adult Store: Forbidden Fruit
Best Personal Trainer: Erica Nix (Transform Fitness)
Best Champions for Austin’s Blaqueers/QPOC Community: Austin Black Pride
Best Boundary-Pushing Fest: Contrast Film Festival
Best Advocate for Queer Youth: Kathryn Gonzales
Most Gender-Diverse Meetup: TGQ Social
Best Creative Nightlife: Fuego
Best Statement Underwear: Package Menswear
And, if you want to celebrate with the winners, snag tickets to our “Best of Austin” party, Thu., Nov. 8, 6-9pm, at the Mohawk. $10-15.
This article appears in October 26 • 2018.