Qmmunity: ASHwell Rounds Up Funds at Their HoeDown

courtesy of ASHwell

Good health care ain’t cheap, and ASHwell sexual health clinic’s alllllll about providing low-cost, high-quality care to Central Texans. So what’s an org to do when they need 1) cash and 2) awareness of their need for cash? No duh: They throw a party, or in this case: a HoeDown.

ASHwell’s country-queer “anti-gala” gayla, aka the HoeDown, gallops into town this Friday, Nov. 1, at Distribution Hall – fast becoming the hot spot for queer functions of a certain size. Attendees can take part in games, an auction, a mechanical bull, and enjoying loverly performances from local icons such as Bobby Pudrido, Louisianna Purchase, and Aira Juliet as the night’s emcee. You’ll also be chowing on barbecue courtesy of Urban Cowboy: Menu spotlights include crispy street-corn skillet cakes, bacon-wrapped jalapeños, and glazed mixed mushrooms – plus a big ol’ buffet.

Each $100+ ticket puts bucks in the pocket of an org that works year-round providing care for HIV and Hep C positive Central Texans as well as other social support services. ASHwell’s marketing & outreach specialist Abraham Resendez calls the HoeDown “not just a party – it’s life-saving support in the form of health insurance, co-pays, and medication for those who might not otherwise have access. ... The HoeDown makes sure we can keep doing what we do best: putting health equity front and center, every single day.”

Okay, okay: Enough serious biz. What’s this about a down being hoed?

“The HoeDown isn’t about the usual fancy dress or formal vibes,” Resendez explains. “it’s a full-on country-queer, stigma-busting bash. We’re talking leather, rhinestones, bull-riding, and barbecue, not quiet speeches and seated dinners.” Recently risen to the top of the trend cycle, country-queer style has always been in fashion around these parts. While the traditional Western wear scene has a mixed history with the LGBTQ community, this particular party asks its guests to bring their own queer flair.

“The queer community has turned boots, denim, and fringe into bold, personal statements that break down old gender rules with a wink and a little sparkle,” Resendez says. “It’s this mix of grit and glam – like a classic cowboy hat, but with flair – where toughness and individuality come together.”

Getting to dress up in rhinestones, leather, and a 10-gallon hat for a good cause? Yee-haw! Sounds like a fabulous Friday to me.

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Fall ’24 K9-9K

Sunday 3, Walnut Creek Metro Park

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Lady Like

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C U Next Tuesday

Tuesday 5, Cheer Up Charlies

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