Mikael Andrews considers a Pekingese his best friend, but is himself a great friend to the gay community
MARK STOKES | Illustrator
mark@markdrawsfunny.com
Name and age: Mikael Andrews, 49
Occupation: HIV/STD behavioral change counselor
Spotted: Walking his dog in East Dallas
Zodiac sign: Aries
Blue, but not blue: Mikael is a stand-out in any crowd with his trademark bright blue hair. This native North Texan (he grew up in Waxahachie) is a retired singer, dancer and baton twirler. He holds a bachelor’s degree in vocal performance and has taught dance on the university level. Performance opportunities allowed him to travel to 21 states, Canada, Mexico and Guatemala in his younger years.
Active and activism: Mikael has been involved in LGBT activism for more than 20 years on the local, state and national levels, and headed up his own fundraising foundation, Don’t Just Sit There Productions, from 1999 to 2001. He has held three titles in the gay male contest circuit, most notably as the first person to represent Oak Lawn at the 2000 Mr. Gay Texas All-American contest. The resulting involvement in various LGBT charities and benefits allowed him more travel opportunities and helped pave the way for his present occupation, work that he has been humbled and proud to be a part of for the past 10 years.
On the move: During his various travels, Mikael loved Toronto, Ontario, Quiche and Antigua, Guatemala, and San Francisco, where he dreams of settling someday. But when he isn’t working or traveling, Mikael enjoys cruising thrift shops. He also loves to eat, and enjoys dining at the many mom-and-pop restaurants in East Dallas. Mikael feels blessed to have wonderful friends and a very full and active life, but his greatest joy is hanging with his best buddy, Toby Dog, a 4-year-old Pekingese.
A dog’s life: Toby Dog belonged to one of Mikael’s dear friends, so when life circumstances changed for Toby Dog’s daddy, he asked Mikael to let the pooch come live with him. He truly is this man’s best friend.
This article appeared in the Dallas Voice print edition Feb. 18, 2011.
