Dear Ruthie,
We have a friend who drinks to excess during our social outings. From dinner to golfing and from festivals to pool parties, she ruins them all with her intoxication. Recently we told her that she couldn’t associate with us if she drank but she does so anyway after promising she won’t. I feel bad abandoning her, but we don’t know what else to do anymore. An intervention? We sort of tried that, but I don’t think we have the knowhow to carry out an effective one. Any ideas? Is abandoning her the right move?
—Abandonment Issues
Dear Issues,
First off, remember this ain’t no episode of “Intervention” and I’m no Dr. Phil…although, my moustache would be as thick as his if I let it go. That said, this big-boned redhead isn’t a doctor, but I will give you my neighborly advice. (And it’s not about how hot I think Dr. Phil is. He is hot, though, isn’t he?)
I think it’s great you’re concerned about your friend. It sounds like you’ve explained your concerns to her and offered some options regarding her behavior and your friendship. I’d give her one more chance, letting her know her drinking is truly affecting your friendship and that things will end if she doesn’t get help. Research a few AA meetings for her, and let her know that she has your support.
If she continues to drink when out with your group, stop inviting her to such events, and explain why. Make yourself available for support, but stick to your guns so she understands her behavior has consequences. It might just be the wakeup call she needs.
Then go watch an episode of “Dr. Phil.” I bet that Streisand-loving chrome dome is a freak in the sheets. Am I right? Can I get an “Amen?” Amen!
UPCOMING EVENTS:
July 28: My Best Friend is Straight Party at Marcus Center Riverwalk Grounds (929 N. Water St.): Grab your BFF and get ready to wine and dine your way along the Riverwalk during this change-of-pace happy hour. Join the Cream City Foundation from 5:30 to 9 p.m. and help build a better LGBT community. Reserve your $75 tickets by calling 414-225-0244 or visit eventbrite.com.
July 30: ‘The Wendy Williams Sit Down Tour…Too Real for Standup’ at The Riverside Theatre (116 W. Wisconsin Ave.): How you doin’? The daytime TV diva turns up the heat as she struts her stuff into Cream City. Join the saucy comic while she dishes the latest dirt on Hollywood hopefuls, reality star wannabes and other hot topics. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. with the door opening at 6:30. Visit pabsttheater.org for more information.
July 31: ‘Ruthie’s Starry Night Review’ at Hamburger Mary’s (2130 S. Kinnickinnic Ave.): I don my Joan Rivers drag to host a night featuring the likes of Cher, Whoopi Goldberg, Lady Gaga and others. Join my gal pals Nova D’Vine, Symphony Alexander Love, Shawna Love and me for two separate shows—8 and 9:30 p.m. Call 414-988-9324 for reservations.
Aug. 1: ‘Liquid Movement’ at Next Act Theatre (255 S. Water St.): The troupe GypsyMoonDance dives into a night of mermaids, water nymphs, pixies and more during this performance that celebrates dance at its most fluid. Performers give nods to ballet, tribal and belly dance in a show filled with poetry, candlelight and breathtaking costumes. Tickets to the 7 p.m. performance are $15. See gypsymoondance.com for more information or nextact.org for tickets.
Aug. 1: The Leather Party at D.I.X. Milwaukee (739 S. First St.): Grab your best leather attire, Sir, and spend some time with the crew at D.I.X. during this night of dirty fun. DJ Chomper keeps the party moving and drink specials keep inhibitions low. The fun starts at 11 p.m., featuring SKYY Vodka models, giveaways and more.
Aug. 3: Poker Night at Hybrid Lounge (707 E. Brady St.): Enjoy a few hands of free poker at this Brady Street hot spot. The Texas Hold ’em Tournament starts at 6:30 p.m., so belly up to the bar and have some with the boys of Hybrid!
Want to share an event with Ruthie or ask her a question? Email DearRuthie@Shepex.com or catch her on Twitter at @DearRuthie.
