Spring Bash Keeps It was definitely “America that Center Moving Forward made me realize (the gays) were Human Rights Ordinance on my side. Q+A Passes In Pleasant Ridge ”– Jessie Ware

THE AUDACITY TO EXIST Film Project Looks At Family’s Choice For Deaf Child

WWW.PRIDESOURCE.COM APRIL 18, 2013 | VOL. 2116 | FREE 2 BTL | April 18, 2013 www.PrideSource.com COVER STORY 4 The audacity to exist Cover photo: Andrew Potter I come up to Ferndale when I want to

It was definitely be around We are America that ‘my people.’ Spring Bash Keeps “ made me realize Center Moving Forward (the gays) were on my side. Q+A Human Rights Ordinance ”– Jessie Ware Passes In Pleasant Ridge everywhere, but there are still a lot of places “where we are still invisible. THE AUDACITY TO EXIST – Laura Williams, pg. 9 Film Project Looks At Family’s Choice For Deaf Child APRIL 18, 2013 | VOL. 2116 | FREE

WWW.PRIDESOURCE.COM News Join The Conversation PrideSource.com” 5 Signs of love @ 6 Deaf C.A.N HIV/AIDS program offers ONLINE ONLY DEAR BTL Enter to win wide range of services 6 Dignity Detroit’s 39th anniversary dinner May 4 7 Pleasant Ridge human rights ordinance passes unanimously 8 On the move toward equality 9 Spring Bash keeps Affirmations moving forward Opinion 10 Messages Michigan sends about inclusion matter enormously to our economy Memphis comes to Motown via broadway. Photo: Paul Kolnik 11 Parting Glances 12 Creep of the Week Don’t Miss These Stories And More At PrideSource.com What’s On Your Mind? “Maximize Your Life” Life News With Jillian Michaels 14 Rewriting Jessie Ware • French senate backs same-sex marriage bill Got something on your mind? Imagine. Believe. Achieve. Jillian 16 Screen Queen • NHL partners with advocacy group to stamp out homophobia Think BTL’s missing a certain Michaels shows how to kick-start 18 Cool Cities: Birmingham • Biracial, lesbian contestant a trailblazer in South Carolina beauty pageant something? Let us know by your goals and live an exceptional • USAID announces new partnership to promote LGBT human rights abroad sending us your letters and life, sharing her keys to health, 21 Fabulous ‘Fidelio’ at MOT editorials. Who knows, it might success and happiness. Win two 22 Happenings • Same-sex marriage: who will legalize it next? just get published! tickets to her Maximize Your Life Tour, 7:30 p.m. May 9 at The Fox Rear View Life Contact us at www.Pridesource. com/Contact_Us.html Theatre, at www.Pridesource. 26 Puzzle • Memphis comes to Motown via broadway com/Tickets_Contests.html 27 Classifieds • From thriller to farce, with dizzying speed 30 Dating Diet • Give my regards to Eastpointe

Vol. 2116 • APRIL 18, 2013 • Issue 812 Editorial Creative Advertising & Sales Business Office Editor in Chief Art Director Director of Sales Diane Smith, [email protected] Pride Source Media Group Susan Horowitz, 734.293.7200 x 12 Benjamin Jenkins, [email protected] Jan Stevenson, 734.293.7200 x 22 Circulation & Distribution 11920 Farmington Rd., Livonia, Michigan 48150 [email protected] [email protected] Phone 734.293.7200 Webmaster & MIS Director Diane Smith Entertainment Editor Kevin Bryant, [email protected] Sales Representatives Publishers Chris Azzopardi, 734.293.7200 x 24 Ed Bohach, 734.293.7200 x 15 ONLINE at Susan Horowitz & Jan Stevenson [email protected] Contributing Writers [email protected] Charles Alexander, Michelle E. Brown, Member of Associate Editor Todd Heywood, Jerome Stuart Nichols, Ann Cox, 734.293.7200 x 13 “Between The Lines Newspaper” Michigan Press Assoication Benjamin Jenkins, 734.293.7200 x 14 Kate Opalewski, Anthony Paull, [email protected] National Gay Media Association [email protected] Andrea Poteet, Eric W. Rader, National Advertising Representative Q Syndicate Gwendolyn Ann Smith, Dawn R. Wolfe News Staff Writer Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 Follow us @YourBTL Crystal Proxmire Cartoonists Our rate cards are available online. All material appearing in Paul Berg, Dave Brousseau Between The Lines is protected by federal copyright law and Email your op–eds to Arts & Theater Editor may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission [email protected] Since 1995 Donald V. Calamia, [email protected] Contributing Photographers of the publishers. Between The Lines is supported by many Andrew Potter fine advertisers, but we cannot accept responsibility for claims Providing Content and Community to LGBT Media Calendar Editor made by our advertisers, nor can we accept responsibility for Sign up online to receive our E–Digest Copyright 2013 Pride Source Media Group, LLC Shelby Clark, [email protected] materials provided by advertisers or their agents. www.PrideSource.com April 18, 2013 | BTL 3 COLOR

The Mahoney family. BTL photos: Andrew Potter The Audacity To Exist Film To Look At Family’s Choice For Deaf Child By Crystal A. Proxmire personal lives to witness and document their journey,” Commerson said. “Jacob The pressure began as soon as Jacob and Justin are both bright lights. We want was born. Doctors told Donna and Marian to do everything we can in our power to Mahoney that their son was deaf, but that inspire the world to embrace and celebrate he could be “cured.” Doctors wanted them the beauty that they bring to the spectrum of to give their son a cochlear implant so that human diversity. Every team member in our he would have the ability to hear. The couple production crew (with exception of the sound declined. Now at five years old, Jacob is a person) is deaf. We see Jacob in ourselves happy, inquisitive little boy that is at the and understand what he and his family must center of a documentary project called “The face. We want the world to see itself from Audacity to Exist.” his perspective. The Mahoneys have three children: “Stories told about deaf people are never 14-year-old Halee, 5-year-old Jacob, and told from the lens of a deaf person. This 3-year-old Justin. Justin is also deaf, as are innovative project is a gift that we look Donna and Marian’s parents. The couple forward to sharing with the world.” knew each other growing up because their They are currently accepting donations to fathers had been friends. At five years apart, fund the film project. With a goal of $75,000, they were not close back then, but met they have collected $2,000 on their website up later in life and fell in love. Both have www.audacitytoexist.com. pursued careers in service to the deaf. Marian The project looks at the family and has done social work and interpreting, and Donna does interpreting. Currently Donna is a regional director for Sorenson Video Relay, a service that enables deaf people to communicate with hearing people over cell phones. We want people to know When Jacob was born, they were excited to have a deaf child. They shared the news with that being deaf is beautiful and all their friends, including Ryan Commerson, “ a deaf film director who used to live in something that is meant to be, we Michigan. His production crew, Facundo shouldn’t be trying to cure or fix Element, is made up of all deaf individuals, except for their sound person. something that isn’t broken. “Jacob’s story is, unfortunately, an all- too-common story. Jacob, however, has two wonderful mothers who ‘get it,’ and they - Donna Mahoney have honored us by welcoming us into their ”

4 BTL | April 18, 2013 www.PrideSource.com their decision to decline an a visual language and of course this, a person has a significantly implant for their sons. It focuses you learn differently – not worse harder time adjusting to the mainly on Jacob and the bright – just differently. Schools are implant. personality that he shares with considered a ‘successful school’ When asked what would Signs Of Love his classmates and family. when deaf children graduate happen if Jacob wanted the For Donna being born deaf with a 4th grade reading level. device later in life, Donna was is no different than being born If this was happening in the unconcerned. “We firmly believe gay. “If my parents knew I was hearing community, parents would Jacob wouldn’t want to do that. Recession-Proof Job And going to be a lesbian and there be throwing a fit and demand We come from a family when was some magical pill they could immediate change.” you truly embrace a person for have given me to be straight, A Website To Learn From should they have done it?” she you imagine a family sitting around asks. “No, this is the way I was By Crystal A. Proxmire having dinner and dad talking about made. Deaf people aren’t sick When Paul Fugate was 13 years his day at work, the deaf child doesn’t or disabled; they don’t need to old, he worked in an apple orchard in know what is being said. They don’t be ‘cured.’ As hearing people we have something Romeo with a man who could not hear. have that bond of getting to know “Jacob and Justin, as well to learn from deaf people and society hasn’t Later on when it was time to select their parents.” as Halee, are allowed to be “ a college and start on a career path, themselves and to explore life event tried to accept deaf people for who he remembered the man from the with their own eyes (of course apple orchard and decided to spend with guidance), but we don’t they are - living, breathing human beings his life bridging the communications force them to be something they that aren’t missing anything that prevents gap between the hearing world and are not or be something that we the deaf. He also discovered the think is better or easier. We want them from functioning in society. importance of teaching others how to people to know that being deaf sign and interpret, and that the skill is beautiful and something that was in high demand in the Michigan is meant to be, we shouldn’t be - Donna Mahoney job market. trying to cure or fix something ” “It’s sort of recession-proof,” that isn’t broken.” Another concern is that who they are there is nothing in Fugate said. “There will always The mothers cherish the way cochlear implants are marketed to his life from his standpoint, that be deaf people and a need for ASL the boys see and interact with parents of deaf children without he lacks. If he does bring it up it (American Sign Language).” Fugate the world. “We’ll be walking a full understanding of how they will only be because of outside began his career as an interpreter in down the street and Jacob will work or what alternatives there pressure. We’ll have a family a school district and moved up to see things I don’t even notice. Paul Fugate has dedicated his life to bridging may be. “People are not told that discussion, but even then it will teaching ASL. With the state requiring the communications gap between the Like way up ahead there could they can do anything that any be a serious talk. Again, if I was two years of a foreign language, hearing world and the deaf. be a robin in the road, and he’ll other normal human being can 16 and someone offered me a many districts are now offering show me. Their other senses do without hearing. You can be magic pill not to be gay, I might ASL as an option. He found himself Fugate said most family members are so much stronger, and who smart. You can run a marathon. have taken it. It’s easier to live teaching at the high school and college say they don’t have time to learn knows what we are stifling by not You can play football. Learning life as a straight person, but that level, as well as working for a video ASL. Some get by with gestures, or letting them develop naturally?” sign language is an alternative doesn’t mean that someone who relay service that aids in telephone try to force lip reading and speaking. She went on to say that maybe to implants but parents aren’t is gay should want to be one. I communication for the deaf. They simply muddle through at home, someday a deaf person will told about it,” Donna said. Jacob don’t think that at 16 you really Through all those experiences he hoping the child learns all they need use their heightened senses attends school in Ann Arbor and know who you are to make that learned more about the needs of the to at school. “You can imagine how to discover a cure for cancer, is involved with a lot of activities decision. deaf community. He realized that some may not have close ties with their because they may see something like t-ball, soccer and swimming. “As hearing people we have about 90 percent of all deaf people are families, because they can’t even have that other people don’t notice. “He has a knack for drama. He something to learn from deaf born to hearing parents, but that only conversations.” This is the fundamental doesn’t suffer from anything. people and society hasn’t event about 25 percent of those take the time barrier to growth and education. Most Society’s Failure He wants to play drums so he’ll tried to accept deaf people for to learn ASL. be taking drum lessons this who they are - living, breathing The issues the Mahoneys face summer. We don’t think of that human beings that aren’t missing The program - ASLDeafined - includes a personalized stem from ways that society as a barrier.” anything that prevents them from fails to adapt to support its deaf functioning in society.” progress chart, themed lessons, retention community members. “Businesses “There are people who do think are required to provide interpreters, Cochlear Implants we are awful because we don’t activities and quizzes, fingerspelling, a 10,000+ but a lot of times they just expect Over 220,000 people have give him the most opportunity,” video dictionary, a customizable vocabulary us to do it,” Donna said. She cochlear implants which have Donna said. “Every family is pointed out that schools only been evolving since the late different and I don’t go running bank, a deaf grammar section and lessons on expect deaf children to learn to 1970s. The devices do not provide up to other parents questioning deaf culture, ASL grammar and ASL syntax. read to a fourth grade level, and the full range of sounds that a why they would change their it’s hard to get assistance if a child hearing person experiences, but child...I’d rather have to answer is on par with that standard. the question of why we didn’t do those with the devices can hear That means that most parents of deaf deaf people can only read at a 4th grade “Michigan as well as many an implant versus why we would speech, environmental sounds children are unable to communicate level, largely because of this lack of other states, have not taken on try to change him and make him and some music. In order to be effectively with their child. “Deaf family communication. the responsibility of educating something he is not.” most effective, implants should children get left out,” Fugate said. The dedicated teacher and interpreter deaf children and then they turn be done by age two so that the it around and blame the deafness “I’ve seen so many who don’t even wanted to do something to change child can develop speech as well To view a video clip of Audacity to Exist know what their parents do for a that. So he paired up with a fellow when they are failing. They try to as hearing. The critical period or to contribute to the film project, visit living. They only know what time their interpreter, Mercy Gonzales, to come educate deaf children just like they for learning to function with educate hearing children. ASL is www.audacitytoexist.com. parent gets home from work, but they up with an effective education system an implant is up to age 9. After know nothing about what they do. If See Signs Of Love, page 6 www.PrideSource.com April 18, 2013 | BTL 5 Dignity Detroit’s DEAF C.A.N HIV/AIDS Program 39th Anniversary Dinner May 4 Offers Wide Range Of Services By Crystal A. Proxmire the video phone can see them and sign a By Crystal Proxmire response back. The translator then tells the Knowledge is power, especially when hearing person what was said. Harris has LGBT inclusion in the Catholic Church is a long- The it comes to HIV and AIDS prevention. also helped older clients learn how to text. standing battle, with groups like Dignity Detroit But sometimes groups are overlooked in big thing is a Currently there are 13 steady clients leading the charge. Thirty-nine years ago the group “ outreach efforts. This is particularly true for the DEAF C.A.N. AIDS Program, in formed to give support to church members, and lot of people in the deaf community, where reading addition to supporting outside calls for especially clergy, who were determined to remain in don’t realize levels can be lower, TV public service information. Deaf C.A.N. works with local the Catholic faith and change it from the inside out. announcements are not as effective and that anyone HIV/AIDS prevention organizations to Now, in celebration of their 39 years of struggle radio does not work at all. Medical care ensure that information remains accessible. and service, Dignity Detroit is preparing for an that deals providers that can communicate well They put literature in medical clinics and anniversary dinner that will help them fund their are limited in number. But one group in with the public attend health fairs. This year, on Sept. 28, ongoing mission and recognize the progress that southeast Michigan has made it a priority, they will be part of Deaf Celebration Day, has been made. must provide using Ryan White federal funding, to serve an event held every two years to connect Lourdes Rodriguez-Nogues will be coming from the deaf HIV positive people in the metro an interpreter for deaf people at the community and share information. This Boston to be the keynote speaker for the event. Detroit area. year’s Deaf Celebration Day will be held at Rodriguez-Nogues lived in Cuba and Puerto Rico their expense. The Americans with DEAF C.A.N. is an agency dedicated to Northland Mall in Southfield. before heading northward to pursue a career in helping those who cannot hear or who have Disabilities Act requires this. “I love my job,” Harris said. “When I was psychology and a life of LGBT activism. She is hearing loss. They offer a wide range of 18 I found a job in a group home with deaf also known for giving talks about LGBT issues in services and support, including their DEAF people and I’ve been helping ever since. I workplace environments. C.A.N. AIDS Program. - Rosalee Harris love the customers and being able to see The dinner will take place on May 4 at the Park ” Rosalee Harris has been working with new clients get the things they need to make Place Banquet Hall in Dearborn. The cost for tickets with Disabilities Act requires this,” Harris DEAF C.A.N. for four years. She and a life better. We take so much for granted.” is $50. said. “If a client is having trouble getting small, dedicated staff assist clients who In addition to case management for HIV The next night, May 5, the Annual Liturgy will be service, I’ll call the business or the agency have a wide variety of challenges. “A lot of positive clients, DEAF C.A.N. provides held at 6 p.m. at Sacred Heart Chapel of Marygrove on their behalf and let them know what the the time they need help applying for DHS a wide range of services to the deaf College. Bishop Thomas Gumbleton will officiate. client’s rights are.” (Department of Human Services) benefits. community, including advocacy, direct Dignity Detroit was one of the first chapters to The agency can also help clients I have clients that I help with employment, services, translation, resources for parents open, just one year after Dignity USA was founded. connect with services that assist them in connecting with medical care, social of deaf children, educational materials, Dignity organizations are support groups with communication. There are video phones security, court issues. workshops and case management. activists who strive to “work for the development of for deaf people and services that provide “The big thing is a lot of people don’t sexual theology leading to the reform of its teachings over-the-phone translation. For example, Learn more at http://deafcan.org/deafaids. For realize that anyone that deals with the and practices regarding human sexuality, and for the a hearing person can call the service and public must provide an interpreter for deaf general information go to http://deafcan.org. acceptance of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender speak to the translator and the person with people at their expense. The Americans peoples as full and equal members of the one Christ.” Dignity Detroit was founded in 1974 and met at Most Holy Trinity Church for 23 years before moving to ® the website to offer more help to students. Increasing the number of people with ASL Marygrove College in 1997. SIgns Of Love In addition to just learning the language, skills is something that Fugate and Gonzales Their constitution states, “We believe that gay, Continued from p. 5 users of ASLDeafined get acquainted with are passionate about. “At the public school lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and straight Catholics the deaf culture, learning syntax and history I teach at, I have students come in and tell are all members of Christ’s Mystical Body, numbered for parents and others wanting to learn ASL that is important. “Because family ties me they work at McDonalds or Subway or among the people of God. We have an inherent outside a traditional class. After four years are not always strong, deaf people really wherever and they had a deaf person come dignity because God created us, Christ died for us, of development and thousands of dollars in connect with each other. When deaf people in. They’re so excited that they were able and the Holy Spirit sanctified us in Baptism, making personal investment, they created a web- get together they can sit for hours signing to sign with the person and take their order us the temple of God, and the channel through which based learning program called ASLDeafined. because they have so much to say that they with dignity. You never know when you will the love of God might become visible. Because of With monthly packages under $25 (less if don’t always get to. They share a common meet someone and be able to help them. Deaf this, it is our right, our privilege, and our duty to live you buy longer-term), ASLDeafined is great bond and the ties are strong.” people are like everyone else. They eat out, the sacramental life of the Church, so that we might for deaf and hearing people looking to learn The site even shares history. In one entry, they go to hotels, they buy gas, and they go become more powerful instruments of God’s love or sharpen their skills. for example, deaf people are credited with to the grocery store. You can run into a deaf working among all people.” The program includes a personalized the creation of the “huddle” in football. “The person anywhere,” Fugate said. He also In addition to Mass every Sunday, activities include progress chart, themed lessons, retention quarterback of the Gallaudet University noted that businesses are required to provide an annual retreat in the fall, monthly women’s group activities and quizzes, fingerspelling, a football team in 1892, Paul D. Hubbard, translator services for deaf customers, a fact and seasonal prayer services. Members volunteer 10,000+ video dictionary, a customizable invented the huddle. Hubbard realized that that puts the profession in high demand. at the Capuchin Soup Kitchen and support other vocabulary bank, a deaf grammar section using sign language to communicate with Any amount of time spent learning ASL charitable organizations, including those which and lessons on deaf culture, ASL grammar the teams plays could be understood by can be useful. Fugate said that even 1-2 hours directly impact the gay and lesbian community. There and ASL syntax. the opposing team, especially because they a week in lessons can make a big difference are after-Mass socials, an Annual Dinner Dance, and “It’s a great way to learn for people who often played other deaf teams. He created in the lives of deaf people. ASLDeafined has when the opportunity comes up, they have a party. are busy,” Fugate said. He explained that the average user keeps using the program the huddle as a way to communicate to a free trial option where people can explore To order tickets or to learn more, visit the Dignity Detroit for about a year, and there are about 10,000 his teammates while shielding their plans some of the lessons and vocabulary before website at www.dignitydetroit.org. subscribers at any given time. In addition to from the other team and the spectators,” signing up for the program. deaf people and families, schools can use ASLDeafined says. To learn more go to www.asldeafined.com.

6 BTL | April 18, 2013 www.PrideSource.com Pleasant Ridge Human Rights Ordinance Passes Unanimously 22nd City In State To Pass Protections

By Crystal A. Proxmire Schools of which Pleasant Ridge is a part, happened to be at the meeting to speak on There was little to debate in the unanimous another matter. Serra served as the first passing of the Pleasant Human Rights openly gay judge in the state and was a Ordinance on April 9. The ordinance member of the Detroit Human Resources makes it a misdemeanor with a $500 fine Commission. He addressed the woman’s to discriminate in the areas of housing, concerns by explaining, “The distinction employment or public accommodation in though, is HIV is the only chronic disease the city. that’s criminalized in Michigan. ...There are Pat Gross, who has lived in Pleasant Ridge people in prison today because of failure to for 23 years, was disclose their HIV among those who status and that’s spoke at a public why HIV status is comment hearing included in most of on the ordinance. the modern up to “Unlike a lot of the date ordinances that communities where municipalities look they pass these at.” ordinances to kind of Victor Walker, say ‘this is how we an employee of should be,’ I really Affirmations think that what Community Center we’re doing here in neighboring is a proclamation Ferndale, said that of how we do live. he meets young I personally have people from always felt safe I really think that what Pleasant Ridge here.” we’re doing here is a proclamation in his work. He Pleasant Ridge “ too expressed has the highest per of how we do live. hope that HIV capita population status would of self-identified be specifically gay people in - Pleasant Ridge Resident Pat Gross retained in Michigan as ” the ordinance reported in the last wording. “There census, and they is no other health are now the 22nd issue that is as municipality to enact a human rights stigmatized as HIV,” he said. “Once you hear ordinance. someone has HIV you never forget that.” Resident Jeanne Ruzzin questioned why The ordinance was passed unanimously the penalty was only $500, saying it was as originally drafted. To the north, in Royal just a “slap on the hand.” Members of the Oak, the City Commission recently passed Commission explained that $500 was the a Human Rights Ordinance, but it was put amount set by the state for local ordinance on hold after residents gathered enough fines. signatures to intercede. That ordinance will The only other question came from a now be put to a public vote in November. resident who wondered why HIV was listed as a protected class, but that people with To learn more about Human Rights Ordinances other health conditions weren’t specifically listed. Rudy Serra, a former Judge and a in cities across the state, visit the Unity Michigan former School Board member of Ferndale website at www.unitymichigan.org/resources. www.PrideSource.com April 18, 2013 | BTL 7 On The Move Toward Equality: Creating Change With Information MPIPP Gathers Data To Inform State Policy By Crystal A. Proxmire

With all the emotional and seemingly self-evident reasons for LGBT equality, sometimes the data-gathers get less attention than they deserve. But when it comes to convincing elected officials to craft policy, or educators to make diversity a priority, the numbers make all the difference. Those are the people who want “nothin’ but the facts.” Thankfully MPIPP is happy to oblige. The Michigan Project for Informed Public Policy is the largest effort in Michigan to gather data relevant to their mission, which is to achieve equality for those who are LGBT and to reduce the stigma and discrimination that can negatively impact the mental and physical health From left Melissa Grey, Diana Popp and Judith Kovach from The Michigan Project for Informed Public of many LGBT individuals and their Policy have forged a partnership with Affirmations Community Center. BTL photo: Crystal Proxmire allies. They accomplish this by providing science-based information to help make data-driven public policy decisions, and to increase the public’s understanding We offer education on the mental health implications of the negative impact of stigma and discrimination against LGBT people. of public policy, like the good mental health benefits With an extensive collection of “ of amending Elliot Larsen and the bad effects of policy studies, surveys, briefs and experts ready to answer the call to testify, MPIPP like removing domestic partnership benefits. is a valuable source for those looking to prove the importance of treating people fairly. Since 2008, MPIPP has - Judith Kovach worked with the Michigan Psychological ” Association to preserve their collection an assistant professor of psychology at data-driven evidence to lawmakers can efforts and services. Now the group is Monroe County Community College, help them make informed decisions. moving forward in a new partnership where she is active in the Gay Straight Many studies focus on the psychological with Affirmations Community Center Alliance. She is also active in the harm done by discrimination. “One of in Ferndale, and working on a new American Psychological Association’s the bills that’s been very important is expansion of their work aimed at teaching Society for the Psychological Study of the conscience clause,” said Kovach. others how to better tell their stories by LGBT Issues as co-chair of their Public “When that issue came up, the Public mixing anecdote with evidence. A grant Policy Committee. Policy committee started looking at that. from the Arcus Foundation makes the Popp brings a wide range of We got input from around the country.” new move possible. communications experience to Their research, based evidence MPIPP has three part-time employees, MPIPP including communication obtained nationwide, was presented to whose hours add up to one full-time project management, development of the Committee. The legislation was not position. However Judith Kovach, Diana diverse print communications (such heard by both houses last year, but it Popp and Melissa Grey go beyond the as newsletters, fact sheets, brochures, has been reintroduced again in 2013 as call of duty to share their expertise. and technical manuals), development SB 136. The legislation would make it Each has a passion for promoting of multi-media training programs, and legal for health care workers to refuse to equality. Kovach, director of MPIPP, is website content development. She has provide service in cases that violate their Visit our website! a psychologist with a long list of titles also been the executive producer of religious beliefs. http://www.pridesource.com and distinctions, including 13 years training and promotional films. “We also offer education on the mental as Director of Public Affairs for the health implications of public policy, Add our fan page! Michigan Psychological Association like the good mental health benefits of Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” and another 10 years as their executive Conscience Clause Battle amending Elliot Larsen and the bad effects of policy like removing domestic Follow us! director. While lobbying is off-limits because @YourBTL Project Coordinator Melissa Grey is of the terms of their grant, providing See MPIPP, page 13

8 BTL | April 18, 2013 www.PrideSource.com Spring Bash Keeps Affirmations Moving Forward By Crystal A. Proxmire community. Watch the Online Video “It’s always struck me as unfair that DETROIT – The spacious ballrooms www.pridesource.com I have certain rights as a heterosexual of the Westin Book Cadillac were full of that people don’t have as homosexuals. supporters in tuxedos and gowns for the That’s absolutely unacceptable,” Affirmations Spring Bash. This annual Gretchko said. event is the community center’s largest fundraiser, providing funding for many of their programs and services. Giving It is the time when Center Partners The impressive generosity of the and other major donors are able to come award winners compliments the true together and remember the value of nature of funding for the center, which having a place where young people can is done by the collective giving of come to feel accepted, find resources, get hundreds of contributors. Whether it’s support, get services, and learn that they a dollar or a thousand dollars, every bit are not alone in the world. The stories helps keep the center open and serving shared remind them that once they too people of all ages and backgrounds. were rejected, judged or even persecuted Many of the attendees had personal for being gay or transgender. reasons for giving their support. Noted workplace trainer and expert on Jessica Barrow of Sterling Heights LGBT issues Brian McNaught spoke at came out to her family and learned to the pre-Bash VIP reception, reminding cherish her true self thanks to the help folks that in the past - in his lifetime of Affirmations’ Coming Out Over - events such as the Big Bash would From left, Affirmations Community Center Executive Director David Garcia with staff members Kat LaTosch, Meg Hollowell and Johnny Jenkins with dinner guest. See online photo and video gallery at www.pridesource.com. BTL photo: Crystal Proxmire Coffee which she attended about three have been raided by police. McNaught years ago. “I used to say I was going to typically speaks to predominantly heterosexual audiences she is, was quick to say ‘what did you do wrong?’ And he said church, but I skipped church to go there,” Barrow said. “I don’t about LGBT issues. After being the first trainer to go to the ‘Mom, I’m gay.’ And she said ‘Okay, but what did you do know what I would have done if I didn’t have Affirmations.” National Security Agency (NSA) to talk on this subject, he told wrong?’” From then on Gretchko has been a tireless advocate Robert Shimmel came out 20 years ago and remembers the the audience members to go home and tell their families they not only for her son, but for every young person in the LGBT were at a training on “lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender See Big Bash, page 13 issues.” He stressed the importance of saying the words and not just the letters, and doing so in a loving way. The result was remarkable. “I got an email the next day from one of the top people at the NSA saying ‘Brian last night I came home and I did what you told me to do. I talked to my family about where I was today and I said I went to a talk about gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender issues and an hour later my college- aged daughter came out to me as a lesbian,’” he said. The Awards During dinner, two awards were presented. The Jan Stevenson Award was given to longtime volunteers and donors Nancy Katz and Margo Dichtelmiller. Katz, an attorney, served on the Board of Affirmations for a decade, including two years as President. The couple has donated more money to the center than anyone else in its history, leading the way to inspire others in the organization’s capital campaigns and making the new building possible. In response to the honor, Katz said, “It’s given so much back to us. I really want to emphasize that. People think ‘Oh volunteering, it takes a lot of time,’ or ‘giving money, I can’t do that.’ But really it’s so given back to us in terms of things we’ve learned and people we’ve met, and ways in which our lives have been enriched by Affirmations. So really I feel like it’s almost unfair because we’ve gotten so much more than we gave.” The Lorna Utley Outstanding Ally Award was presented to a woman who jumped in and got involved in the community center after her son came out as gay. Lisa Gretchko has served on the Finance Committee and currently serves on the Fund Development Committee. Jan Stevenson presented the award, explaining, “She told me her story of five years ago when her 14 year old son called her up on the phone, at work, and said ‘Mom, I’ve got to tell you something important, I’ve been keeping something from you.’ And she being the lawyer that www.PrideSource.com April 18, 2013 | BTL 9 Messages Michigan Sends About Inclusion Matter Enormously To Our State’s Economy

Leaders in business and government are appreciating “as never before that our people, our human capital, our “talent” – whether gay, straight, black, white, brown, old, OPINION BY John AUstin young, man, woman – is the most precious commodity and people, and clearly young important ingredient in growing jobs and opportunity. practices are “on-the-agenda” ast week, at Wayne State people in the next generation in Lansing? Can immigrants University, I gave the Samuel want to live lifestyles, and live choose and trust a state where the LLevin Economics Award in communities that animate Governor says you’re welcome Lecture and used the forum to deliver certain values, including social ” here, but the Secretary of State outs from anti-bullying legislation society posed by its gay citizens. equity, tolerance and sustainability. of the same party wants you to have a major speech on Michigan’s was called out and beaten back – but Boy are we looking backward! We are at a thrilling time in the to (illegally) check a special box to economy. we still did not get the needed clarity Make no mistake, we are in an nation as same-sex marriage for vote? Where the LGBT community I basically made two arguments and enumeration of “whose rights international competition to be the gay and lesbian couples is being can’t trust, day-to-day, whether about what matters most: One, are being protected” in this long place the best educated people in the embraced. Immigrants rightfully elected leaders will stay strong, and we have to build up, not diminish overdue bill. world want to live, work, become are viewed as an asset to a more say clearly: “you are embraced as through disinvestment, the public We failed to join the states sending an entrepreneur, and start their economically vibrant and diverse part of the Michigan family!?” institutions and services: schools, a message that we embrace the own business. Our top-talent still society. Leaders in business and Michigan needs leadership universities, transportation industries of the future, and want leave our state in droves, because government are appreciating as that won’t compromise, and will infrastructure, parks, museums, to lead in needed job creation in we aren’t modeling the attitudes, never before that our people, our consistently stand up for the values libraries, that support a thriving clean energy, when we defeated nor making the investments in our human capital, our “talent” – shared by the growing majority – economy and rich quality of life; increased renewal energy standards communities, nor higher education, whether gay, straight, black, white, here and around the country. Why? and two, we have to send the right at the ballot. nor jobs of the future – that make brown, old, young, man, woman – is It is the right thing to do, but also, values message to our own citizens And right after the election the Michigan the place to be. Do our the most precious commodity and as Clinton advisor James Carville and outsiders – that say Michigan is Right-to-Work law was jammed young people, our new college important ingredient in growing jobs famously put it: “It’s about the the state that is the most attractive through the legislature in lame duck, graduates – move to Indiana because and opportunity. economy, stupid!” and supportive place for wonderful, and Pure Michigan ads touting it it’s a right-to-work state? No they go We need Michigan to join that creative, diverse and well-educated ran in the Wall Street Journal. As to Chicago, Boston, Seattle, New national party. That is why we need people to live, work and play. I said at the time – this is sad and York, Colorado, California – all John Austin is President of the Michigan clear messages from our leadership These values signals we send – as embarrassing for Michigan – both non-right-to-work – and arguably at all levels: We treat all equally, we State Board of Education, and Directs a political community or polity, and sullying Michigan’s ‘brand’ and attractive as tolerant and forward welcome newcomers, we embrace the Michigan Economic Center at Prima through our public policies – matter sending a message to the world leaning. Why would any woman our LGBT children, friends and co- Civitas Foundation. @John_C_Austin. enormously to the economy, and are that Michigan is competing to be a choose to make their career in a workers, and want to do everything www.MiEconomicCenter.org often given short shrift in debates “low-wage” state; and has succeeded state where threats of invasive health possible to make this state the choice over whether we should raise or in beating up its labor place for our children to make their lower taxes; invest more or less in unions and working careers, and newcomers to make roads or education. people. More recently their home and do their business. The questions: Are we welcoming we have the spectacle of That is why we must have zero and inclusive and tolerant – of a right-wing legislature tolerance for leaders and legislation women, the LGBT community, seeking to ‘punish’ that send the wrong message to our immigrants, people of color and schools and universities own citizens and outsiders. Early last each other? Are we embracing for negotiating long-term year when Michigan passed and saw change, or protecting our past and “win-win” agreements signed by the Governor, legislation present – whether by protecting our with their employees denying domestic partner benefits “tribe” by resisting newcomers or — and modeling to gay couples at universities – and those different from ourselves; or collaborative labor- denying university employees the protecting our existing industries, management relations right to organize – I said then in a and not embracing the coming — because it violates Free Press editorial – we should ones like clean energy and clean the spirit of “right-to- make Michigan the “want to work water? Are we sending messages work” (which I guess here state” – not the state that tells that we care about our neighbors, is about punishing your top researchers, top talent: “Hey, our community and our planet? workers). And RNC we don’t want you to be happy and Answering these questions the right Committeeman and welcomed here.” Also last year way is so important. former State Rep. Dave the homophobic over-reaching Happily and increasingly around Agema starts frothing including “religious and moral” opt- the country and in Michigan, most about the menace to

10 BTL | April 18, 2013 www.PrideSource.com Mad About ‘The Boy’ Parting Glances Opinion BY CHARLES ALEXANDER

here are bits and pieces, odds and ends, this, thats, the others, that adhere like crazy glue to my brain pan. Some Tof these mental bits of flotsam and jetsam are almost as old as I am ...... the pre-’In God We Trust’ Pledge to the Allegiance, the Rinso White, Rinso Bright, Happy Little Wash Day Song, the sandbox kindergarten ditty, Stop! Look! and Listen! Before you cross the street, use your eyes, use your ears, and then use your feet . . . And most recently, prompted by media discussion of topic #1, BS of A: “On my honor I’ll do my best to do my duty to God and to my Country, to obey the Scout laws, to keep myself physically fit, mentally alert, and morally straight.” Yeah, sure. Not that I was ever an exemplary Boy Scout. I never got beyond the Tenderfoot stage, never earned a merit badge, never slept excitedly in a tent during a troop overnighter, never purchased the familiar khaki uniform. I suppose even then things slightly military just didn’t interest sissy-boy me. (When I reported to my draft board at age 19, I passed the physical but had pre-checked the homosexual tendencies box. “Can you prove you’re homosexual?” queried the psychiatrist.”No, but I can talk about my sexual experiences,” I ventured. I was classified 4F, and reclassified 1Y during the 1961 Cuban Missile Crisis.”Eligible in the event of a national crisis.”) Like the Catholic Church currently dealing with the billion dollars worth of scandals involving priests who importune and seduce altar boys and underage parishioner kids, the Boy Scouts of America has had its share of sexual abuse of minors by its scout leaders. Whether these incidents are occasioned by pedophiles as some social psychologists maintain or by gay men, in either case those so involved should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law, as well as those persons in higher organizational leadership roles who protect and cover up for them. As far as the Boy Scouts of America is concerned, there’s a touch of irony, usually unspoken about by the media, in that the founder of the Boy Scouts, Robert Stephenson Smyth Baden- Powell (raised to the British peerage as Lord Baden-Powell) may himself have been gay, but closeted. Baden-Powell’s book, “Scouting for Boys” – a surely unintentional play on words on his part – was published in 1908. The scouting movement quickly spread from England to this country, where it enjoyed enormous success and appeal. Both success and appeal have diminished over recent years. According to Baden-Powell’s biographer, Tim Jeal, the legendary hero of the British Boer War, as a boy himself liked playing with dolls, as a teenager formed deep attachments to male friends, and, as a soldier, played many drag roles in army theatricals. His marriage at 55 was traumatic, occasioning him to often flee from his nuptial bed to a convenient nearby army cot. Baden-Powell’s strongest attachment was to an army buddy, Kenneth McLaren, a 20-year-old who, according to Jeal, “looked 14.” Baden-Powell affectionately nicknamed him ‘The Boy.’ When McLaren married following World War l, Baden-Powell was quite upset. (McLaren died years later in an asylum.) Jeal’s 1989 Lord B-P outing biography is titled, “The Boy- Man.” Scout’s honor. God save the queen! www.PrideSource.com April 18, 2013 | BTL 11 Creep of the Week OBITUARY: Edward Johnson Alan Keyes Opinion BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI April 20, 1976 - April 8, 2013 ou know how sometimes law the real agenda is going to be By Jason A. Michael you haven’t heard from uncovered and by then it will be too Ysomebody in a while late to stop us (insert evil laughter DETROIT – Community made a foray into the world of and you just kind of assume that here). activist, dancer and former female female impersonation, creating they’ve crawled under a rock and Keyes continues, because impersonator Edward Johnson died the character Tokyo Reign. disappeared from public life for the apparently he has no filter, “If you April 8th from complications from Legendary female impersonator good of humanity? want to tolerate abuses then those kidney failure. He was 36. April Summers soon took Johnson Well, someone’s gone and abuses can be imposed upon the A Detroit native, Johnson grew under her wing. unearthed Alan Keyes, former people. Once you establish that, up on the West Side. He graduated “I loved Tokyo,” Summers said. the abuses are then not going to be from Cass Technical High School “She was a very hard worker. And confined to egregious outrages like in 1994 and went on to study dance as Edward, he was very giving.” this; those abuses are going to be at Oakland University, Marygrove Tokyo Reign went on to win committed against the whole society College and Wayne State University. many area titles, including Miss and they will in the end include He performed with many local Michigan Continental Plus, Miss the murder of the masses as has dance companies, including Jazz Great Lakes Continental Plus, Miss occurred in all Communist regimes & Spirit Dance Theatre of Detroit, Club Flamingo and Miss Stilettos. that existed. That includes as well Natural Locz Dance Company, As Johnson began to master his me that my situation wasn’t as bad the expropriation of all property Detroit City Dance Company, Body craft, he took time to school others. as I thought. He was my voice of because if you don’t respect Rhythm Dance Theatre and the “When I met Edward, I was a hope.” the primordial God-endowed Detroit Windsor Dance Company. shy, soft spoken young man,” said In recent years, Johnson had Satan is hell-bent belongings that are associated Soon, he was not only dancing but Donzell, aka Dominique Polo. started his own business and with family life then why on earth choreographing and instructing “Edward took me under his wing worked as a personal shopper. for the destruction would you be constrained to respect as well. not only as my drag mother but as He was ever-evolving and always any other form of human property But dancing wasn’t Johnson’s a gay parent and mentor. Edward trying something new. of all mankind with claim.” only passion. He became active taught me not only about the gay Johnson is survived by his the help of his loyal Ah, the slippery slope argument. in Detroit’s LGBT community, life and the pageant world, but also mother, Deborah Johnson, and his If gay marriage is legal, well, then working for Horizons Project and about real life.” sister, Erica Barham. minions, the gays. anything goes! I think the proper later Men of Color Motivational Polo said that Johnson’s impact “What I will remember most is response to Keyes claim here is Group. on his personal development cannot his spontaneity,” said Barham. “You “no duh and obviously.” I mean “He just had a beautiful soul,” be overstated. never knew what he was going presidential candidate and current who doesn’t believe that marriage said June Washington, who hired “There was a time in my life to get into next. He had so many nutcase, and put a microphone in equality will lead to a Communist him to work at Horizons Project as when it seemed as if my world was interests, and anything that sparked front of his face because apparently regime and “the murder of the an outreach worker. “He was just a coming to an end,” Polo recalled. “I creativity interested him. You really this world just doesn’t have enough masses” and the abandonment of sweet individual. He didn’t speak didn’t know what to do. So I called never knew what was next.” crazy in it. private property laws? Oh, wait, badly about anyone.” my ‘momma’ and he came to my Funeral services for Johnson And Keyes doesn’t disappoint. nobody who is sane. In the late ‘90s, Johnson rescue. He lectured me and showed were held April 15. In an interview with conservative And who is to blame for all of this radio host Stan Solomon, Keyes upheaval? Why, Satan, of course. made clear that legalizing marriage “We need to keep in mind that for gays and lesbians would the Devil is not playing, he’s deadly inevitably lead to the destruction serious about the destruction of Rick Santorum To Speak of civilization, in a very literal way. America’s character, spiritual nature I should mention that Keyes has and the foundations of that way of At Grosse Pointe South HS a daughter who identifies as gay, life,” Keyes warned. although he identifies her as not In other words, Satan is hell-bent existing. Not exactly father of the for the destruction of all mankind Santorum on April 24, stating his bring him to the High School. year material. with the help of his loyal minions, views were extreme, he took to At press time the event is Keyes claims that “homosexual the gays. By Susan Horowitz Fox News. scheduled to take place April rights … returns us to the dark ages But how do we do it? Why, via “It’s a sad day when liberal 24 (though Santorum was in the of human oppression. the Tee Vee, of course. There are hundreds of entries educators are allowed to influence hospital over last weekend and “The aim is not compassion “All of that is being destroyed and on BTL’s website, quoting former young minds – extending free cancelled an appearance at the for homosexuals, respect for a key vehicle for doing that is what Pennsylvania Senator and 2012 speech rights only to those who Iowa Faith and Freedom Dinner homosexuals and all of this, the aim you might call the popular culture Republican Presidential contender share their liberal views. I support April 15.) in the mind of these hardheaded, of entertainment: music, television Rick Santorum making anti-gay traditional marriage; I believe Students will now need a calculating, leftist, Communist, shows, movies,” Keyes claims. remarks. He has made the Creep marriage should be between one permission slip from parents to totalitarians is to destroy the family “I’ve noticed for instance that of the Week column numerous man and one woman. I’m not hear Santorum, who when pressed and to establish the notion that once every form of entertainment now is times (perhaps a record number) sure what the administrators in on the content of his speech, you have seized power there is no being programmed to promote the over the years, all of them for the Grosse Pointe Public School refused to give a copy to Grosse limit whatsoever to what you can acceptance of homosexuality, every virulently homophobic remarks System are afraid of, but these Pointe school administrators. do,” Keyes said. form of it.” (not to mention offensive remarks students deserve the respect to You can find a list of the more He’s right, of course. Gay rights In other words, Keyes sees regarding race and Islam.) form their own opinion on this salient quotes Santorum has are really just the gateway drug of homosexuality everywhere he looks When Grosse Pointe School important issue, ” Santorum said. uttered through the years on our rights. Once gays are considered and he can’t stop obsessing over it. administrators moved to cancel His host, Young Americans for website at www.pridesource.com. equal human beings under the But somehow gays are the ones with a scheduled appearance by Freedom, raised the $18,000 to the problem.

12 BTL | April 18, 2013 www.PrideSource.com Using a research-based approach, program and both groups were already ® MPIPP KUP helps participants identify people to working together on the Older Adult Continued from p. 8 speak with, how to reduce the listener’s Coalition. levels of anxiety, and how to use words “We’re very pleased about this new partnership benefits,” Kovach said. and body language that make their story- partnership and excited about the MPIPP also works with the Michigan telling more effective. KUP training opportunities that come with it”, said Department of Education in their Sexual sessions are generally 3-4 hours long for Dave Garcia, executive director of Minority Youth Work Group, which looks groups of 10-30 people. Affirmations. “It not only strengthens at ways to train administrators in schools Kovach stressed that allies need to be our mental health expertise but it also how to support LGBT youth. They do story-tellers too, since their viewpoint provides added validity to our expanding trainings on college campuses, through may resonate with other straight people. mental health services.” “How does it feel if your kid comes PTAs and other educational avenues. To learn more about MPIPP and to see their On top of educating legislators and home beaten to a pulp? How does it feel range of resources, check out their website at educators, MPIPP is now looking at a if you’re a social justice worker and you www.mpipp.org. more grassroots approach to helping see LGBT youth who are struggling?” others tell their stories. “Contact theory says that when an Website Resources On May 4, MPIPP will be hosting a empowered group gets to know someone conference at Affirmations Community from a disenfranchised group, they are Beyond the trainings and support, the Center called “Waves Of Courage: Social much more likely to empathize with MPIPP website and newsletters contain Science Evidence to Strengthen Ally that person and group,” Kovach said. a wealth of information individuals & LGBT Equality Efforts.” Nationally Because of this, MPIPP began KUP, the and groups can use to discuss a wide known researcher Dr. Glenda Russell, Know Us Project. range of topics important to the LGBT a psychologist, author, and university KUP provides training and support community. These include: Anti-gay professor from Boulder, Colorado, will for people who are willing to step up Ballot Initiatives, “Conversion” or be there to share research that she and put themselves out there by sharing “Reparative” Therapy, Employment and others have done on anti-gay their story. But it’s not just the typical Discrimination, Family & Parenting, politics and its personal impact on LGBT speakers’ bureau approach. “What’s Health Care, LGBT Elders, LGBT People people and their allies. The conference unique is that we address the mental of Color, LGBTQ Youth, Marriage has been underwritten by The Joshua health needs of the person telling their Equality and Transgender Issues. Lobenthal and Debbie Kovach Memorial story. It’s not easy. We provide a way With the Michigan Psychological Funds, so the cost for attendees is only to cope with negative reactions. When Association cutting back on staff and $25. To register visit http://events.r20. you have conversations with people partnerships, working with Affirmations constantcontact.com/register/event?oe you never know how they are going to seemed like the perfect next step. idk=a07e78tzlnhecb82e99&llr. react,” she said. Affirmations has a growing counseling

or something,” she said. “I come up to not stop there. Affirmations needs ® Big Bash Ferndale when I want to be around ‘my ongoing support to remain open, and Continued from p. 9 people.’ We are everywhere, but there while there is some social progress, there are still a lot of places where we are still is still more that needs to be done. progression of Affirmations through the invisible.” “Marriage is a mile-marker, not a years. “I’m here for the gay kids so they Affirmations Executive Director goal line,” Garcia said. “What happens can have a place to come out. I grew up David Garcia reported progress about after marriage? Does that protect the in a little place called Sturgis, Michigan the community center and throughout transgender community? Does that and there was nowhere like Affirmations the state, touting the unprecedented protect us in our employment where we nearby. Kids need a place to feel safe.” Community Center Network and the can still be fired in the state of Michigan Laura Williams of Riverview supports Unity Michigan Coalition which are for being gay? This fight is not over if the Affirmations for the same reason, saying working together towards change. He Supreme Court overturns Prop 8. Please there isn’t a place downriver for LGBT lauded the center’s extended hours, the remember that.” ever-growing counseling program, and people to feel welcome. “Someday I To find out more about Affirmations, visit the want to have a Pride there, or a march the growing acceptance for gay marriage. But he also said that the movement does website at www.goaffirmations.org.

www.PrideSource.com April 18, 2013 | BTL 13 Singer On Career REWRITING Switch, Big Gay Following & Her Wildest Moment

By Chris Azzopardi

ith all the due praise for Jessie Ware’s honeyed debut, “Devotion,” including Wa Mercury Prize nomination, no one’s complaining that the Londoner dropped journalism for music. Least of all Ware herself. As she heads stateside, the charming “Wildest Moments” singer chatted about changing careers, first recognizing a gay fan base while touring America and the Whitney Houston album that inspired her debut.

Do you think you would’ve pursued a solo career if your mom hadn’t convinced you to? No. Probably not. It was a joint thing – my mom and my friends put me in a session with some tracks. I felt like I was very lucky to have people who really had faith in me. Were you a good journalist? No, I was rubbish! That’s why I didn’t do it for that long. I found it really, really competitive and it just didn’t feel completely right for me. My father is a journalist and I was under the impression that it’s very glamorous and that I’d be a hard-hitting journalist, but no. I just wasn’t very good. Isn’t music competitive, too? Jessie Ware Yeah, but I feel like I was extremely lucky with how I came into music, because I had people really rooting for me and so I didn’t feel quite guilty about it. I didn’t really have that struggle. I went from backing singer to solo singer, but I was so content being a backing singer. It was really my mates pushing me to get in a session on my own, which I was petrified about. Look, I put my time in as a backing singer and I was a dance vocalist, but it felt sometimes too good to be true with how generous people were with me, giving me these opportunities. Your Twitter wallpaper is Barbra Streisand. What kind of influence has she had on you and your career? She’s brilliant and just so charismatic. I just think she’s a great, great singer and a great performer, and you can just learn a lot from watching any performance of hers – that you must never forget to try your hardest all the time. Were you an obsessive fan as a kid? Photo: James Moriarty No, not at all. My grandma made me watch concerts

14 BTL | April 18, 2013 www.PrideSource.com COLOR

of hers when I was younger and she was just tour. It was just amazing. I loved it. But I have obsessed. My mom took my grandma to a really catered to the gays in the new video concert and I remember it very vividly. But (for “Imagine It Was Us”). It’s got voguing no, it was more a later love and find when and lots of beautiful men with no tops on and I started watching “Yentl” and “Funny Girl” choreographed dancing and a disco feel to it. and things like that, and actually getting so madly into the stuff that she did with Robin Thank you so much! Gibb. Pleasure! Are there other gay-loved singers you idolize that When were you aware that you had a gay following? we do as well? Bette Midler? I only really realized when I came to America. Uh, hello! I’m partly calling my unborn You know what, I’m still working out who’s child – my daughter that I hopefully will coming to see me anyway, but when I saw have – C.C. because of C.C. Bloom from all these beautiful black men at the front (at “Beaches,” and also because my grandma is one of the shows) I was like, “Oh, heyyy,” called Cecilia, so I’m calling her that. Yeah, and they’d be like, “Gurrrrlfriend!” It was there’s a definite Bette Midler love in there. I definitely America that made me realize you just love strong Jewish women. were on my side. Mariah or Whitney? What song on “Devotion” speaks most to your Whitney was my one, my love. In fact, I had gay fans? Whitney and Barbra Streisand vinyls in the I feel like quite a lot of them like “Taking in recording booth when I made my album just Water,” and I don’t know if that’s because it’s so if ever I wasn’t trying hard enough, I’d just about my brother and they know that. It was look at them and be like, “Oh no, try harder. written when he was having a really tough Babs wouldn’t do that. Whitney wouldn’t do time, which could’ve been partly to do with that.” sexuality and the struggle of that.

You know what, when I came in January and I saw how many gay people were at my gigs, I “breathed a sigh of relief, I’m not gonna lie. I thought, ‘OK, yes, they’re on my side. Wicked. Let’s go.’ Which Whitney album? Did you write it about him” and his struggle with I had the “Whitney Houston” one – the his sexuality? orange vinyl where she looks very elegant. It’s not just about that. It’s kind of the aftermath of coming out. I don’t know. It’s Why do you think gay men gravitate toward big about a few things. I was very protective of female voices like those and yours so much? him but I wasn’t very good at expressing it, Look, I don’t know, but maybe it’s the drama. and then I kind of wrote this song. I’m not There’s always a huge passion. I don’t know saying the song made us closer at all, but we if it stems from musical theater and the kind definitely are much tighter now. I make sure of fabulousness of it. I don’t know. You tell everyone knows he’s in the audience when he me. You’re gay! is and I make sure everyone knows it’s about my little brother. I like to say we have good taste. (Laughs) It’s good taste, but also I feel like How has having a gay brother influenced the way you’re always the ones who have your finger you feel about gay rights? on the pulse. You’re always the first to know I’ve always felt really protective of my brother. about people. You’re breaking me! You know I think we all kind of knew he was gay from what, when I came in January and I saw how quite a young age, and I felt like he was picked many gay people were at my gigs, I breathed on at school because of maybe him being more a sigh of relief, I’m not gonna lie. I thought, effeminate and not being able to come out and “OK, yes, they’re on my side. Wicked. Let’s it became an issue. He was having to defend go.” himself and he wasn’t even sure if he was gay yet. You can still see it happening, and people Were you doing a club tour? are still so casually homophobic without No, I didn’t, actually. The only club that I even knowing it, whether it be, “Oh, that’s so played was in San Francisco, which I think gay.” Things like that. It really annoys me. I had quite a renowned gay club night and that feel very protective of him and I’d like to do was amazing. It was the second sellout of the See Jessie Ware, page 21 www.PrideSource.com April 18, 2013 | BTL 15 Screen Queen By Chris Azzopardi

fierceness, strident determination, Oscar Winners 2013 confidence and ultra badassery. She knows it, too. “I’m the motherfucker who found Beauty”), Bond is more grounded – more this place,” she tells an inquiring CIA Les human – than ever: He’s aging and his days agent. They believe her, at least enough to Misérables are numbered. Mortality and loss are at crash and shoot up bin Laden’s compound, the film’s rich, gritty center, but “Skyfall” because she believes in herself. The tense, Wins: Actress in a – a major comeback after “Quantum of gripping search then, with its false leads, Supporting Role Solace” – soars with life. The hour-long suicide bombings, torture interrogations (Anne Hathaway), doc “Shooting Bond” looks at the dashing and eventual raid (spectacularly and Sound Mixing, stunts and psychedelic title sequence, realistically shot, by the way), becomes Makeup and which accompanies one of the best Bond just as much about the man behind the 9/11 Hairstyling themes ever by you know who: Adele. attacks as it does the woman – that’s right: Boasting of its eight Academy Award the woman – who nailed him. With all the nominations, three Golden Globe wins supplemental possibilities, it’s a shame only and “perfect” picture and sound, the “Les Wreck-It four featurettes – the best being the one on Misérables” Blu-ray – all right, you got me Ralph Chastain – round out the set. with that velvet-soft slipcase, Universal – is Wins: Short as showy as director Tom Hooper’s stuffy, Film, Animated up-the-nose shots of his live “singers.” And Lincoln (“Paperman”) if you want to hang out in Hugh Jackman’s Wins: Actor in nostril cavities, then by all means. Other People adored a Leading Role reasons for seeing Hooper’s version of Sarah Silverman (Daniel Day- the Broadway hit: You like overwrought as the squawking tyke. They loved her Lewis), Production musicals where people sing about suffering, rainbow-colored world. All the “joyful” Design nostalgia and turd jokes? They loved that, and then where they sing about suffering Set during the Civil too. Not me. “Wreck-It Ralph,” with Jane some more. For almost three hours. You are War just as Abraham Lynch essentially doing an animated Sue curious to hear just how bad Russell Crowe Lincoln enters his second term, Steven Sylvester, is a genius concept that goes sounds. You want to see Anne Hathaway Spielberg’s inspiring biopic “Lincoln” “game over” after a promising start – where own that Oscar win as a prostitute in need spotlights the landmark amendment to the bad boys of arcade, including ransacker of a shower, who sings better than Susan abolish slavery and the knuckle-clenching Ralph, sit in group therapy and discuss Boyle. That performance, and also Jackman courtroom drama that ensued. As the their aggressiveness – left-right-lefts into as Jean Valjean, elevates one of the greatest Supreme Court hears arguments for gay an obnoxiously grating ADHD nuisance. misses of last year, but only so much. marriage, “Lincoln” is both timely (see I kept wanting Ralph to wreck this and And not enough. If you want to see Anne also: Obama) and hopeful (we know what restart. That’s not to say “Ralph” doesn’t (pretend to) get emotional discussing her happened then: equality prevailed). The make clever gaming-culture cracks, but not character – and also ogle a shirtless Hugh first half of out scribe Tony Kushner’s nearly enough to justify spending almost at the gym – the extras are for you, too. meticulously focused script is dense and all its time in the acid-trippy Sugar Rush, dry in textbook history – it’s all conversation run by the stereotypical “nelly wafer” (too much conversation) after that deceptive Skyfall King Candy. If you wanna spend an hour opening war scene – before delegates group in Candy Land, call your gayest friend Wins: Original for the big climatic vote that’s no less and get the board game out. Extras aren’t Song, Sound intense, even humorous at times, despite so great, either. Though it does include Editing knowing the outcome. Day-Lewis makes Disney’s enchanting Oscar-winning short a riveting Abe that, like Lincoln himself, For a half century, “Paperman,” and it’s better than the film will go down in history. Not only is the the James Bond itself. franchise – resemblance uncanny, he emancipates every including this scene with gravitas. Sally Field also does one, that’s 23 films – has built a wildly Zero Dark career-best work as wife Mary Todd. She heteronormative world based on chases and gets to cry. Enough said. Special features girls and beating the bad guys. So, of course Thirty are scant, but they decently skim all aspects madness and mayhem and machismo Wins: Sound of “Lincoln,” from the artistic production endure in “Skyfall,” but this exhilarating Editing design to casting. joyride doesn’t stop there: A bad call in During a short the beginning puts Bond’s life in danger, featurette, director things get complicated between 007 and Life of Pi Kathryn Bigelow M (Judi Dench, chewing up every scene), Wins: Directing, says she wouldn’t do her Osama bin Laden and a deranged arch nemesis (maniacal Cinematography, docudrama – an unnerving and exceptional marvel Javier Bardem) puts the moves on Visual Effects, retelling of the arduous manhunt – without his foe. Bond himself, played by Daniel Original Score Jessica Chastain. And good. Chastain is Craig at his best, even suggests he’s maybe an actress of immense versatility with an It’s perfectly a little gay. (Oh, oh.) With a team of shrewd already impressive resume, and her Maya normal to have Ang writers, and director Sam Mendes’ stylistic (which nabbed the star a Best Actress Lee envy. Aside influence (he won an Oscar for “American Golden Globe) is portrayed with feministic See Screen Queen, page 18

16 BTL | April 18, 2013 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com April 18, 2013 | BTL 17 COLOR

Ethan Allen Design Center To Host ‘Chair-ity’ Event For Rainbow Connection April 19

Ethan Allen Interiors Inc. will host children fighting for their lives. service, quality and style, and clients “Chair-ity” Benefit for the Rainbow Today, over 87 percent of all money love our complimentary design service. Connection to celebrate the launch of raised through donations, fundraisers We are a full service interior design Fresh Colors, “a new collection for the and sponsorships goes toward helping firm committed to designing your young and the young at heart.” Proceeds answer wishes for Michigan children perfect space.” will go to The Rainbow Connection, dealing with life-threatening conditions. Pam Bemus, regional design manager an organization focused on fulfilling The Fresh Colors line marks the 80th of the Great Lakes region, adds, “We dreams and wishes of terminally ill anniversary of Ethan Allen, bringing encourage the local community to join Michigan children. fresh and vibrant fabrics and finishes the celebration and help support The The Rainbow Connection was to its accessories. The design company Rainbow Connection.” founded in 1985, in part by Oakland has been giving to the Birmingham “Chair-ity” Benefit for The County Executive L. Brooks Patterson community for over 14 years and hopes Rainbow Connection begins 6 p.m. and Janet Dobson to honor her husband, locals will help contribute to such a April 19 at Ethan Allen Design Ron, and their two children, Tim and dedicated cause. Center, 275 N. Old Woodward Ave., Jennifer, who were killed in a plane As part of Ethan Allen’s corporate Birmingham. Festivities include crash. principle of focusing on the client, appetizers and wine, live music, Since its creation as a $2,300 their years of charitable work coincide raffle prizes and silent auction of scholarship started in 1980 in memory with a desire to focus on helping four hand-painted upholstered chairs. of the deceased, the Michigan based the area in service and in charity. For more information, call 248-540- group has raised more than $1.8 million Birmingham Design Center notes, 8558 or e-mail info@birminghammi. annually to help dreams come true for “We value our reputation for excellent ethanallen.com.

Pi” (2-D and 3-D formats are available on of 1979’s Iranian hostage situation, when ® Screen Queen Blu-ray). So, even if the allegory doesn’t six U.S. Embassy escapees hide in the Continued from p. 16 click, you won’t be at all bored trying to home of Canadian ambassador Ken Taylor figure it out. Extras include an hour-long (out actor Victor Garber). The plan to get from winning the coveted statue at this doc covering the story’s novel-to-screen them out? Shoot a fake sci-fi movie kind year’s Oscars for his soul-awakening evolution and an entire feature dedicated of like “Star Wars” but called “Argo.” masterpiece, the filmmaker (who’s luckier to Richard Parker, the tiger. You might already know how it all shakes than you) also directed Heath Ledger and out when CIA staffer Tony Mendez leads Jake Gyllenhaal’s spit-and-stick tent scene the rescue mission, but Affleck’s effective in “Brokeback Mountain.” Then Ang went Argo no-nonsense direction moves every scene ahead and made “Life of Pi” (the nerve!), Wins: Picture, along with nail-biting intensity – and, an aesthetic dazzler that’s also a spiritually Adapted in the peripheral movie-planning parts, rich thinker, based on the bestselling book, Screenplay, Film welcome comic relief – that no history about a boy who survives a shipwreck and Editing book could possibly replicate. Besides an Affleck commentary, “Picture in fights for survival in the middle of the Nobody’s feeling Picture: Eyewitness Account” headlines ocean on a raft with a gaggle of animals. sorry for Ben an impressive bunch of historically Lee immerses you in an extraordinarily Affleck anymore. informative extras on the actual crisis. breathtaking CGI-enhanced out-at-sea Probably not even Affleck himself. Though adventure, with all the majestic wonder wrongfully snubbed of even a best director of a dream. At dawn, it’s rich and lucid; “nomination,” Affleck’s historical account Chris Azzopardi is the editor of Q Syndicate, nighttime is celestial and shimmery. No took home The Big One – as it should the international LGBT wire service. Reach him film in 2012 looked better than “Life of have – for his life-or-death dramatization via his website at www.chris-azzopardi.com.

18 BTL | April 18, 2013 www.PrideSource.com 1 14 8 9 13 6 12 Cool Cities 10 4 Birmingham

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www.PrideSource.com April 18, 2013 | BTL 19

Great Goerke! Fabulous ‘Fidelio’ At MOT By Michael H. Margolin PREVIEW For its first-ever production of Fidelio Beethoven’s only opera, “Fidelio,” Michigan Opera Theatre, Detroit Opera Michigan Opera Theatre caught the wave House, 1526 Broadway St., Detroit. 7:30 and brought one of the best dramatic p.m. April 17, 19, 20 & 2:30 p.m. April 21. 2 sopranos around, Christine Goerke, to hours, 35 minutes. $25-125. 313-237-SING. sing the role of Fidelio/Leonora, who, in www.motopera.org 18th century Spain, disguises herself as a man and seeks, then rescues, her husband from a dungeon and death. (Sung in has become a dramatic soprano as her German with English supertitles.) career continues. She owns a sensuous, “Fidelio” is called a rescue opera powerful voice with a pure effortless top. since, reductio ad absurdem, someone is The wrongly imprisoned Florestan, sung by last-minute replacement John Mac rescued at the end – the kind of ending Carsten Wittmoser and Per Bach Nissen in that Brecht and Weill mocked in the Master, possesses a large, trumpeting MOT’s production of “Fidelio.” Photo: John closing moments of “The Threepenny voice. In their second act duet that is Grigaitis Opera. But in “Fidelio,” when the one of the evening’s highlights, they Germanic attitude. They were led by full chorus and the principals sing of reach high, then higher, each of the notes Christian Badea who kept a superb Leonora’s courage, there is no mockery; ascending towards heaven. balance between stage and pit. soaring and passionate are the words that The third major role is Rocco, the Among the several other named roles, come to mind. somewhat-conflicted jailer who is a bit Nicholas Fitzer and Errin Brooks, first As is fairly well-known, Beethoven of a pragmatist – he follows orders, but and second prisoners respectively, and struggled for many a year revising then his sympathies can be engaged Carsten Wittmoser as the evil dude, this work; there are even three or four and he mellows – was sung by Danish Don Pizzaro, who took exception to “Leonora” overtures, one of which is bass Per Nach Nissen. His voice is also Florestan’s truth-telling, proved their often played as a concert piece. Yet it does powerful and dramatic, and he has brio worth. As the deus ex machina, young not sound or seem overworked, though if in the way he moves. Ricardo Lugo sang gravely as Don you don’t read the program synopsis, you The first act quartet, with Goerke, Fernando, whose arrival to review the may think you’ve been dropped into the Nissen and young performers Cameron prison finalizes Florestan’s freedom. middle of an ongoing drama. Schutza as Jacquino and Grosse Pointe In John Pascoe’s production – he Still, that does little to degrade the native Angela Theis as Rocco’s daughter also directed – his lighting design with very clear message that is still relevant Marzellina, is a canon, each singing the Ruth Hutson was splendid and, among today and that DNA has proved: Many same melody as they join in. It is lovely other things, showed off the excellent innocents have been sent to prison musicianship. Theis has an aria in this costumes and makeup by Cindy Ludwig. and, perhaps, put to death. In the last act that she sang charmingly, though This “Fidelio” was good to see, great few hundred years, some things have the lower register is not suited to her to hear, and firmly authenticates David remained constant. lighter voice, which succumbed under DiChiera’s strengths as an artistic Above all, whether you agree with the the orchestra. impresario, the sole role he assumes at moral, there can be no doubt that this Speaking of the orchestra, they played MOT this fall, leaving the business end is a brilliantly sung “Fidelio.” Goerke Beethoven with a striking degree of to a newcomer not yet in place.

Were there times while recording where you clothes, I’m reminded of the early ® Jessie Ware just wanted to let your voice rip? I feel like ’90s when Mariah, Whitney and Celine Continued from p. 15 you could’ve gone there with “Running.” didn’t have to look like floozies to sell For “Running,” it’s just enough, I records. What do you think of this new more supporting gay rights, absolutely, think. I keep that really long note, and wave of women who are bringing a more because it’s close to home for me. I don’t you should see how long I keep it in sophisticated – and clothed – look back? think he’s had an easy time being gay, the live show. It’s ridiculous. I try to Oh, I love it. Whenever I dress up, it’s to be honest. It’s been harder for him, I test myself and see how long I can hold always gotta be something that my think. that note, but no, I think it’s not about mother would be happy with me wearing, me showing off on a vocal; it’s more so I always have that in the back of my You really demonstrate a lot of self- about what’s necessary for the song. control on this album, and the album mind. But yeah, I think it’s brilliant. What’s better than a classy woman who is better because of that. Were you What’s been your wildest moment so far? can sing? I mean, I show my tummy a conscious of keeping your voice in check? Probably getting the A$AP Rocky verse lot. But I think I can get away with a little Absolutely. I wanted to tell stories in the inbox (for the “Wildest Moments” bit of midriff. and draw people in and not inundate remix). That was pretty amazing and them with a big powerhouse vocal. It nobody really thought it was going to What’re you wearing now, then? would’ve been a bit exhausting on the happen. We were just about to deliver A knitted pink crop top with a really big ears. Don’t get me wrong, live I go for the album, and then he popped up in roll-neck and a lovely silk jacket with it a bit more because I think it’s more everyone’s inbox with the verse. high-waisted trousers and slippers. necessary. But I definitely wanted to be able to exist in people’s homes, cars With artists like you, Adele and Florence So you’re completely covered. Welch, and several other emerging and just in the background, and I didn’t There is a tiny bit of midriff. I’m so want people to want to turn me down. female performers who actually wear sorry. www.PrideSource.com April 18, 2013 | BTL 21 KGLRC Walk/Jog/Run Group 6 p.m. The Resource Center’s Health and Wellness Committee is proud to offer our very own group devoted to walking, jogging, Happenings and/or running. Everyone is welcome, regardless of physical ability and/or clergyperson and as a partnered lesbian and open to all LGBT adults and their sexual orientation. Kalamazoo Gay and woman with three children. Plymouth UCC, allies. It is professionally facilitated and Lesbian Resource Center, 4143 N. 10th Outings 4010 Kalamazoo Ave., Grand Rapids. designed to provide a safe, therapeutic, St., Kalamazoo. KGLRC.org 616-455-4260. plymouthchurchgr.org and LGBT-affirming environment for Thursday, April 18 participants to talk freely and find the Wild Wednesday 6 p.m. A group PFLAG Ann Arbor Meeting 2 p.m. Third support they need. Transportation may for youth ages 12-18 interested in Retirement Income Luncheon 11:30 Sunday of every month. Attendees may a.m. Auto Workers, join Ameriprise for an be arranged with advance notice and hanging out with other kind and park in the back of St. Andrews Episcopal driver availability. OutCenter, 132 Water supportive youth in a safe environment. educational event about how to decide if a Church. Support group and monthly pension buy-out is right for you. This is a St., Benton Harbor. 269-925-8330. Dedicated to Make a Change, 319 speaker at each meeting. PFLAG Ann outcenter.org Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-657-1792. major decision that could impact you and Arbor, 306 N. Division St., Ann Arbor. your family for years to come. Call now to [email protected] [email protected] Pflagaa.org One Voice Chorus 7 p.m. LGBT Choral Dedicatedtomakeachange.com RSVP. Lunch will be served. Ameriprise, group. Meets every Monday. Affirmations, 600 E. University Dr., Rochester. 248- PFLAG Tri-Cities Meeting 2 p.m. 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248- Beloved Hearts 6:30 p.m. Grief Support 799-5935. [email protected] Midland, Bay City and Saginaw area 398-7105. Goaffirmations.org Group (LGBT and allies) for those who PFLAG. Meets the third Sunday of every Walk, Jog or Running Group 6:30 p.m. are grieving the death of a loved one month. Offering support, education LGBTA Gender Explorers Group 8 p.m. (including pets). Meets every Wednesday. We can walk/run around the park area so and advocacy for LGBT individuals and Meets the second and fourth Mondays if we all go at our own paces we will still Call for information and address. Get Out families with group and monthly speaker of every month. Spectrum Center, 3200 And Live!, Royal Oak. 248-981-4227. be together. It doesn’t matter what shape at each meeting. PFLAG Tri-Cities, 2525 Michigan Union, 530 S. State St., Ann you’re in. Just get out and join us! Get Out [email protected]@ Hemmeter Road, Saginaw . 989-941- Arbor. [email protected] comcast.net GetOutAndLive.me And Live!, Ferndale. meetup.com/GOAL- 1458. [email protected] Pflag-mbs.org Get-Out-And-Live-LGBT Ferndale Pride - Volunteer Planning Equality Band of Michigan Rehearsal Tuesday, April 23 Gender Non-Conformists 7 p.m. A social Meetings 7:30 p.m. Ferndale Pride, 290 W. for Pride Season 4:30 p.m. New Gay Business Networking 8 a.m. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. and discussion group for transgender, members are encouraged to attend. Networking for LGBT business owners genderqueer, genderneutral and We perform at Pride events across and professionals. Every fourth Tuesday P.L.U.S. Youth Group 9 p.m. For Middle gender-exploring individuals. Space also the state, including Motor City Pride, of the month. Get Out And Live!, 290 W. and High school age youth who enjoy available to significant others. Meets West Michigan Pride, and Michigan Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. socializing with people their own age, every Thursday. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398- 7105. [email protected] GoAffirmations.org Livingston County PFLAG Meeting 7 Editor’s Pick p.m. Meets the third Thursday of every The glimmers of spring brings one of month. Please park behind the church, use the handicapped entrance, and follow Detroit’s most deliciously anticipated events: the signs to Room 127. All are welcome! Detroit Restaurant Week. Livingston County PFLAG, 400 E. Grand River Ave., Brighton. 517-548-0839. Each establishment of the 19 participating [email protected] Facebook. com/pages/Livingston-County-PFLAG Detroit restaurants will offer a scrumptious Polyamory Network 7:30 p.m. Open dinner menu and offer guests a unique and inclusive community of people dining experience that can only be found in living polyamorously, people interested Detroit. Try a super lump crab cake at Cliff in polyamory and people of, friendly to and curious about polyamory. Welcomes Bell’s, a chocolate-peanut butter lollipop at diversity of sexual orientation and gender The Whitney, or tofu pad thai at Atlas Global identity. Meets the third Thursday of every month. Polyamory Network, 319 Bistro. Whatever your culinary craving, be Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-995-9867. sure not to miss this limited time experience. jimtoycenter.org Beginning Friday, April 19 through Sunday, Friday, April 19 April 28, Metro Detroiters will once again be able to enjoy premier three-course meals Bisexual Peer Group 7 p.m. Our group meets monthly on the third Friday & for just $30 per person (excludes beverages, tax and gratuity). For more information, visit discussion relates to bisexual identity. www.detroitrestaurantweek.com or e-mail [email protected] Building is handicap accessible using ramp to rear entrance. Bisexual Peer Group, 319 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734- 678-2478. [email protected] Facebook.com/groups/110918256984/ Pride. Come out and play for equality! GetOutAndLive.me going through the same issues as they. Womyn’s Film Night 7 p.m. Film: Contact the band president Gary Hicks Meets every Wednesday. The Lesbian and Chicago. Roxie hungers for stardom but if you have questions about the band. Discussion on HIV Criminalization in Gay Community Network, 343 Atlas Ave. ends up in the slammer, where superstar Equality Band of Michigan, 201 E. Michigan 11 a.m. Community roundtable. SE, Grand Rapids. 616-458-3511. Grlgbt. Velma is doing time for shooting her Grand River Ave., Lansing. 517-525- Located in Lake Superior Room. Positive org/calendar/ cheating husband. When Velma’s lawyer 1732. [email protected] Justice Project, 702 West Kalamazoo St., makes Roxie a tabloid sensation, he Equalitybandofmichigan.org Lansing. [email protected] sets up a musical catfight between the Thursday, April 25 SWEAT 6 p.m. A weekly support/social all-too-willing rivals. Affirmations, 290 W. Conversation Station 5 p.m. Discussion Dining Out for Life Fifth annual fundraiser group to encourage those of us who need Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. group with facilitator. LGBTQI and allies for AIDS service organizations.35 to achieve wellness and or weight loss. Goaffirmations.org/ 35 and over - join GOAL each week for restaurants will donate 25+ of sales. CARES, discussion, food and fun. Topic: If you The Network, 343 Atlas Ave. SE, Grand Kalamazoo. diningoutforlife.com/kalamazoo could have a super power, what would Rapids. 616-458-3511. Grlgbt.org/ Saturday, April 20 Free HIV Testing 5 p.m. Free, anonymous you choose? Get Out And Live!, 714 S. 7 p.m. Women’s HIV Testing 1 p.m. Free. Affirmations, 290 Women’s Social Group HIV testing is available at S3 Safe Sex Washington St., Royal Oak. 248-981- discussion group. Plans a monthly group W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398- Store every other Thursday until 9 p.m. 4227. [email protected] activity such as dinner, movies, games. 7105. goaffirmations.org GetOutAndLive.me Testing is performed by HARC staff. Call Meets the second and fourth Tuesday to schedule an appointment, but walk-ins YEP Night 4 p.m. For LGBT youth, of every month. The Lesbian and Gay are more than welcome. S3 Safe Sex ages 14-24. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Monday, April 22 Community Network , 343 Atlas Ave. SE, Store and HIVAIDS Resource Center, 1209 Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. It’s Not Just Social: Using Social Grand Rapids. 616-458-3511. Grlgbt. S. University, Ann Arbor. 734-741-1434. goaffirmations.org Media in the Job Search 1 p.m. Savvy org/calendar/ [email protected] S3safesexstore.com job seekers know that social media is a Sunday, April 21 powerful tool for the job search. Discover Wednesday, April 24 Men’s Film Group 7 p.m. Meets every Thursday at Affirmations. Affirmations, Ally Development Training 10 a.m. how you can use your favorite social tools Coping with Disabilities Group 1 p.m. An to build a network, promote your personal 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248- Spectrum Center, 530 S. State St., Ann ongoing discussion group for people who 398-7105. Goaffirmations.org Arbor. 734-763-3241. SpectrumCenter. brand, and get access to great career have any physical or mental illnesses who umich.edu opportunities. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine struggle with day to day issues such as PFLAG Battle Creek 7 p.m. Meets Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. applying for benefits, relationships , being monthly at St. Thomas Episcopal Church. Cheryl Burke at Plymouth UCC 10 Goaffirmations.org with people who understand. Meets every Affiliated with BC Pride. PFLAG Battle a.m. Rev. Cheryl Burke will share second and fourth Wednesday. Affirmations, Creek, 16 E. Van Buren, Battle Creek. her experience with union services Adult Support Group 7 p.m. Our Whole Lives, Healthy Lives support group is free 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248- and marriage as an ordained UCC 398-7105. Goaffirmations.org See Happenings, page 25

22 BTL | April 18, 2013 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com April 18, 2013 | BTL 23 24 BTL | April 18, 2013 www.PrideSource.com Funkfest - 5 Hours of Funk” The hottest MSU College of Music James Forger, ® names in Funk will unite together. Tickets: saxophone; Deborah Moriarty, piano; Happenings $49-89. Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward Suren Bagratuni, cello; Tickets: $0+. Cook Continued from p. 22 Ave., Detroit. 7 p.m. April 27. 313-471- Recital Hall, East Lansing. 7:30 p.m. April 6611. Olympiaentertainment.com 24. music.msu.edu/event-listing

Speak Out 7 p.m. Offers a welcoming The Palette “Happy Hour”. Flint Institute MSU College of Music “Symphony environment for LGBT people to improve of Arts, 1120 E. Kearsley St., Flint. April Orchestra and University Chorale, State their public speaking and leadership 18 - Sep. 26. 810-234-1695. Singers, Choral Union” Tickets: $0+. Wharton skills. Meets the first and fourth Thursday Center for the Performing Arts, Michigan University Musical Society “Allison State University, 750 E. Shaw Lane, East of every month. Jim Toy Community Balsom, Trumpet; The Scottish Ensemble” Center, 319 Braun Court, Ann Arbor. Lansing. 8 p.m. April 27. 800-WHARTON. Tickets: $10+. Hill Auditorium, 825 N. music.msu.edu/event-listing 734-995-9867. [email protected] University Ave., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. April 20. JimToyCenter.org 734-761-1800. ums.org Really Living Foundation “The Urban Soul Experience” Marsha Ambrosius, Friday, April 26 University Musical Society Bobby Dwele and Conya Doss will grace the McFerrin: “Spirit You All” Tickets: $10+. Hill stage of the Max M. Fisher to deliver a Oakland County’s Denim Day Those Auditorium, 825 North University Ave., Ann who work in participating Oakland county triple impact of amazing vocals, talent Arbor. 7:30 p.m. April 18. 734-763-3333. and flare. Tickets: $35-100. Max M. Fisher departments may wear jeans to work ums.org for a $1 donation. For more information Music Center , 3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 7:30 p.m. April 27. 313-576-5111. about participating or making a donation Classical to support victims of sexual assault and DSO.org Detroit Symphony Orchestra “WSU domestic violence, contact HAVEN. HAVEN Mondays at the Max” Tickets $15+. 3711 Royal Oak Music Theatre Chris Mann. and County Executive L. Brooks Patterson, Woodward Ave., Detroit. April 18 - April 22. All ages. Royal Oak Music Theatre, 318 W. Oakland County. 248-334-1284. haven- 313-576-5111. dso.org Fourth St., Royal Oak. 7 p.m. April 24. 248- oakland.org 399-2980. royaloakmusictheatre.com Kerrytown Concert House “Benefit Polyqueer Womens Group 7 p.m. Concert for Caleb Lei Memorial Award” Royal Oak Music Theatre Tech N9ne. Open meeting to lesbian, bisexual Mary Siciliano, piano, and Jack All ages. Royal Oak Music Theatre, 318 W. and transgendered women who are Robbins, violin, join forces to honor the Fourth St., Royal Oak. 6 p.m. April 25. 248- polyamorous or curious about women- memory of their violin/piano student, 399-2980. royaloakmusictheatre.com centered polyamory. Meets the last Caleb Lei. Tickets: $5-10. Kerrytown Friday of the month. Jim Toy Community The Ark Kris Allen. Tickets: $20-50. The Concert House, 415 N. Fourth Ave., Ann Center, 319 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. April Arbor. 8 p.m. April 22. 734-763-4186. 734-995-9867. [email protected] 22. 734-761-1800. TheArk.org Kerrytownconcerthouse.com JimToyCenter.org The Ark Brother Joscephus and the Love Kerrytown Concert House Penelope Revolution. Tickets: $15. The Ark, 316 S. Saturday, April 27 Crawford. Internationally acclaimed as Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. April 20. 734- one of America’s master performers 2013 Youth Justice & Leadership 761-1800. TheArk.org on historical keyboard instruments, Exhibition 11 a.m. A regional exhibition of The Ark Drew Nelson. Tickets: $15. The youth social justice issues and strategies Penelope Crawford has appeared as Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. identified and developed by youth. Tickets: soloist with modern and period instrument orchestras, and as recitalist and chamber April 26. 734-761-1800. TheArk.org $15+. Michigan Roundtable, Detroit. 313- musician on major North American 870-1500. miroundtable.org/youthevents Dale Earnhardt Jr.; Dale concert series. Tickets: $5-25. Kerrytown The Majestic Earnhardt Jr. returns to the Majest with OutCenter Volunteer Orientation & Concert House, 415 N. Fourth Ave., Ann special guests Tunde Olaniran and Training Session 12 p.m. OutCenter, 132 Arbor. 8 p.m. April 26. 734-763-4186. Stepdad. Majestic Theater, 4120-4140 Water St., Benton Harbor. 269-925-8330. Kerrytownconcerthouse.com Woodward Ave., Detroit. 7 p.m. April 20. outcenter.org MSU College of Music “Wind Symphony”. 313-833-9700. MajesticDetroit.com Workshop: How To Start A Cottage Law Wharton Center for the Performing Arts, University Musical Society “Albert Kahn Food Business In Michigan 1:30 p.m. Michigan State University, 750 E. Shaw Architecture Immersion” Tickets: $50+. This workshop combines the business and Lane, East Lansing. 7:30 p.m. April 25. Hill Auditorium, 825 N. University Ave., food safety aspects of preparing and selling 800-WHARTON. music.msu.edu/event- Ann Arbor. 8 a.m. April 20. 734-761-1800. cottage foods safely and successfully. Learn listing ums.org what foods can be legally produced and how to label and sell them. You will leave with a Concerts certificate of completion for cottage law food Caesars Windsor Natalie Cole. Her safety. Tickets: $30 Fair Food Matters, 1157 album “Unforgettable .. With Love,” Theater Bank St., Kalamazoo. fairfoodmatters.org which featured the interactive duet of LezRead 4 p.m. Ann Arbors book group “Unforgettable” with her late father, the Civic/Community Theater for Lesbians. Meets the last Saturday of legendary Nat King Cole,, reached #1 on Arsenic and Old Lace $16-$18 every month. LezReads, 319 Braun Ct., Ann the pop charts, earned 6 Grammy Awards in advance; $2 extra at the door. Arbor. 734-995-9867. [email protected] and sold 14 million copies worldwide. Stagecrafters at Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. LezRead.com Tickets: $25+. Caesars Windsor, 377 E. Lafayette Ave., Royal Oak. Through April Riverside Dr., Windsor. 8 p.m. April 26. 28. 248-541-6430. stagecrafters.org 800-991-7777. CaesarsWindsor.com As You Like It $10-$15. Korda Artistic Canton Commission for Culture, Arts, Production at Kordazone Theatre, 2520 Music & More and Heritage “Canton Acts of Culture Seminole, Windsor. Through April 20. 519- DYPAC Alexander Zonjic and Friends Week”. Canton Commission for Culture, 562-3394. kordazone.com with Special Guest Keiko Matsui Tickets: Arts, and Heritage, Canton. April 27 - May $25. Trenton Village Theater, 2447 W. 5. cantonfun.org Broadway Bound $23. Kalamazoo Civic Jefferson Ave., Trenton. 7:30 p.m. April Theatre at Civic Auditorium, 329 S. Park Detroit Children’s Choir “The Power 21. 313-964-5050. dypac.com St., Kalamazoo. Through April 20. 269- of Song” The concert will be highlighted 343-1313. KazooCivic.com Grasshopper Underground with a performance of a new work by Nick Monaco (Dirtybird-SF). The 2012 Kresge Arts Fellow Kris Johnson Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr. $5-12. Grasshopper Underground, 22757 titled “Change.”. Detroit’s Tabernacle Warren Civic Theatre at Warren Community Woodward Ave., Ferndale. April 27. Missionary Baptist Church, 6125 Center, 5460 Arden, Warren. April 19 - 28. thegrasshopperunderground.com Beechwood St., Detroit. 4 p.m. April 27. 586-268-8400. WarrenCivic.org 313-898-3040. detroitchildrenschoir.org Michigan Philharmonic “Adventures Legally Blonde $16-18. Farmington on Earth: An Orchestral Celebration of Detroit Symphony Orchestra “It’s A Players, 32332 W. 12 Mile Road, Earth Day”. Michigan Philharmonic, 774 Small World” A kid-friendly performance Farmington Hills. April 26 - May 18. 248- N. Sheldon Road, Plymouth. 2 p.m. April of classical favorites featuring. 553-2955. farmingtonplayers.org Orchestra Hall, 3711 Woodward Ave., 21. 734-451-2112. michiganphil.org The Cover of Life $11-12. The Twin Detroit. 11 a.m. April 20. 313-576-5111. City Players, 600 W. Glenlord Road, St. MSU College of Music “Danz’n and dso.org Musical Dialogues with Early Jazz” A Joseph. Through April 28. 269-429-0400. lecture by Robin Moore.Tickets: Free. Kerrytown Concert House Bucky TwinCityPlayers.org Pizzarelli and the Michele Ramo Trio. A Cook Recital Hall, East Lansing. 5 p.m. Time Stands Still $7-19. Kalamazoo superior guitarist appreciated by swing April 26. music.msu.edu/event-listing Civic Theatre at Parish Theatre, 329 S. musicians in particular, Bucky Pizzarelli Park St., Kalamazoo. April 19 - May 4. MSU College of Music “Latin IS has been a fixture in jazz and the 269-343-1313. KazooCivic.com America” A musical, artistic, and studios since the early ‘50s. Self-taught, scholarly exploration of interwoven Latin Pizzarelli has long been a master of American and U.S. culture. Michigan the seven-string guitar. Tickets: $5-30. College/University Theater State University, East Lansing. April 15 - Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N. Fourth Bat Boy: The Musical $20-25. Bonstelle April 30. latinISamerica.msu.edu Ave., Ann Arbor. 7 p.m. April 21. 734- Theatre, 3424 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Olympia Entertainment “Original 763-4186. Kerrytownconcerthouse.com See Happenings, page 28 www.PrideSource.com April 18, 2013 | BTL 25 Passion Of Crime Across 54 Flips out 28 Oscar winner Thompson 59 It comes at the bottom of a list 29 White lie 1 Sarandon’s partner in “Thelma & Louise” 60 Actor who plays 38-Across 30 What a guy may shoot 6 Neuwirth of “Chicago” 62 Old fruit drink 31 Like treacherous winter roads 10 Court order 63 Hacker’s cry 34 Foam at South Beach 14 Bridge call, informally 64 Words from an emcee 35 On top of that 15 Like a meticulous bottom? 65 Govt. investigator 36 Moral obligation 16 Have ___ to grind 66 Emulate Rufus Wainwright 38 Show-off on the stage 17 Serial killer on 26-Across 67 Cuts “Leaves of Grass”? 39 Maugham’s “Cakes and ___ “ 19 Baby’s dusting Down 40 Become prone 42 The Oscars, e.g. 20 Not oral 1 School for martial arts 43 It’s comped 21 Man-to-man, to Sue Wicks 2 At once, to Byron 44 Bi singer Janis 23 Bone to pick 3 Lincoln’s Johnson 45 Alerting electronically 25 Rupert Everett’s “An ___ Husband” 4 Pre-Columbian Peruvian 46 Second word of a fairy tale 26 Fox crime drama 5 TV when you’re watching 47 Pumbaa’s problem, in “The Lion 32 DJ’s creation “Desperate Housewives”? King” 33 Event for George Frenn 6 Bunghole’s place 48 Family figure 34 Down in the mouth 7 Rocker Brian 49 Largest cornhusker city 37 Shakespeare’s foot 8 Smooth on top 52 Dashes through the snow 38 Detective Ryan of 26-Across 9 Pronoun for Proust 53 Interstate rumbler 40 Remarkable item 10 Like “Beauty and the Beast” 55 Material for Sylvia Beach? 41 Cross-dresser’s cup pair 11 Cockamamie 56 Beginning of “Wicked” 42 Oz visitor Dorothy 12 Latin music 57 Left to pirates 43 On top 13 Do a bang-up job 58 Biblical patriarch 44 Actor who plays 17-Across 18 Rod attachment 61 What fifty million 47 Seat at the Stonewall Inn 22 Like some print Frenchmen drink 50 Strip in the locker room 24 Tom Hanks’ Gump 51 Device used to determine 26 Chi paper Solution on p. 27 orientation? 27 Get wind of

26 BTL | April 18, 2013 www.PrideSource.com To place a classified ad with us,visit pridesource.com/classifieds Classifieds or call us at 888.615.7003 x15

309 Employment - 320 Employment - Professional Wanted

HIV Pharmacy Unity Michigan Coali- Community Outreach tion Pride Season Coordinator Volunteers (Wayne/Oakland County) The Unity Michigan Coalition Innovative HIV and Hepatitis and BTL is seeking volunteers to Specialty Community pharmacy assist in a community outreach is seeking a community outreach project throughout the June Pride coordinator to work within the season. Volunteers will work with HIV and Hepatitis community. The UMC and BTL to collect contact community outreach coordinator information from LGBTQ and will be responsible for the allied attendess of Pride festivals Meet Buster! coordination and execution of who are interested in further- the pharmacy’s vision on HIV and ing nondiscrimination policies Hepatitis market growth. This is throughout the state and would a field-based position, increasing like to keep informed on how they This happily hopping bunny is one of four Dwarf rabbits at our Rochester referrals from referral sources can become involved. Hills Center. Buster is an alfalfa-loving brainiac who’s quickly learning how and patient support groups, Call at 734-293-7200 ext. 14 or to use his litter box. He enjoys burrowing in newspaper and showing off his education programs and events. e-mail [email protected] for more information or to sign up. perky brown ears. Requirements: The adoption fee includes sterilization, age-appropriate vaccinations, the • Intimate understanding of the HIV and gay community 428 Prof. Services - MHS Adoption Guarantee and much more. • Passion for working within and For more information, visit or call the MHS Rochester Hills Center for Animal helping the HIV and affected Massage Care at (248) 852-7420 and provide the pet ID number, 742696. Photo by communities Michigan Humane Society. • College education preferred • Demonstrates an understanding GROUP MASSAGE of knowledge of HIV Disease - For Gay and Bisexual Men. and Hepatitis, treatment, patient Learn some massage techniques population and market place and meet others in a safe and • Excellent communication skills caring environment. Tuesdays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. Thursdays at Tasks Include: 2 p.m. $10 per session. 209 • Build relationships with West Kingsley in downtown Ann patients, referral sources and Arbor. (734) 662-6282 or email HIV community clinics [email protected]. http:// • Establish strong relationships www.trymassage.com with new patients and referral sources • Manage expense budget within territory • Will coordinate patient needs with pharmacy staff • Full knowledge and understanding of HIV Disease and Hepatitis • Articulate core disease epidemiology, prevalence, patient signs and symptoms, microbiology, anatomy and physiology. • Understands treatment protocols, therapies, and discuss proactively with customers within the scope of Treatment Education Criteria: • Proficiency in using Microsoft Office– Word and PowerPoint • Ability to multi task • Detail oriented and organized • Experience in developing Solution to puzzle from page 30 and cultivating community relationships with individuals, groups, AIDS Service Organizations and physicians offices • Knowledge of Social Media Please email your resume to: [email protected]

www.PrideSource.com April 18, 2013 | BTL 27 Editor’s Pick Wayne State University’s Maggie Allesee Department of Theatre and Dance announces “A Conversation with Apple Award Recipient Elaine Stritch” at the Hilberry Theatre at 4 p.m. April 27. Stritch will appear on campus as the recipient of the 2013 Apple Award and will entertain her audience in an “Actors Studio”-style interview and question-and-answer session. A Tony, Emmy and Drama Desk Awards winner, the legendary Stritch has been onstage entertaining audiences since 1944. Her most recent stage work includes her critically acclaimed portrayal of Madame Armfeldt in the Sondheim-Wheeler musical “A Little Night Music” and the Tony Award-winning “Elaine Stritch At Liberty.” After her recently announced retirement, Stritch will return home to reside in Metro Detroit. To purchase tickets, call 313-577-2972 or visit the Wayne State University Theatres Box Office at 4743 Cass Avenue on the corner of Hancock in Midtown Detroit. Tickets are $25 and seating is assigned.

April 18 - 28. DogStoryTheater.com April 21. cranbrookart.edu ® Happenings Marat/Sade $12-30. Hilberry Theatre, Detroit Artists Market “Line by Line: Continued from p. 25 4743 Cass Ave., Detroit. April 19 - May 11. Drawing Explored”. Detroit Artists 313-577-2972. Hilberry.com Market, 4719 Woodward Ave., Detroit. April 18 - May 24. 313-832-8540. Memphis $34-89. Fisher Theatre, 3011 W. detroitartistmarket.org Through April 21. 313-577-2960. Grand Blvd., Detroit. Through April 21. 313- Bonstelle.com 872-1000. BroadwayinDetroit.com Detroit Institute of Arts “Motor City Muse: Detroit Photographs, Then and Crazy for You $10-$26. UM Dept. of On Golden Pond $16-$18. The Box Theater, Musical Theatre at Power Center for the Now” 2100 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Jan. 90 Macomb Place, Mount Clemens. Through 2 - June 16. 313-833-7900. DIA.org Performing Arts, 121 N. Fletcher St., Ann April 27. 586-954-2677. theboxtheater.com Arbor. April 18 - 21. 734-764-2538. http:// Kalamazoo Institute of Arts tickets.music.umich.edu Peter Pan $30-$70. Fox Theatre, 2211 “Reflections: African American Life from Woodward Ave., Detroit. April 19 - 21. 313- the Myrna Colley-Lee Collection” 314 S. Funny Girl $15-20. Michigan State 471-6611. olympiaentertainment.com University Department of Theatre at Park St., Kalamazoo. March 2 - May 26. Wharton Center’s Pasant Theatre, 750 E. Pookie Goes Grenading $10-15. The New 269-349-7775. KIArts.org Shaw Lane, East Lansing. April 19 - 28. Theatre Project, Mix Studio Theater, 130 W. Lawrence Street Gallery “Exposures: 800-WHARTON. Theatre.msu.edu Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti. April 18 - 28. 734- Photography 2013”. Lawrence Street 961-8704. TheNewTheatreProject.org Kiss Me Kate $5-20. Western Michigan Gallery, 22620 Woodward Ave. Suite A, University Theatre at Shaw Theatre, 1903 Shirley Valentine $15-25. Williamston Ferndale. April 1 - April 26. 248-544- W. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo. Through April Theatre, 122 S. Putnam Road, Williamston. 0394. lawrencestreetgallery.com 20. 269-387-7222. WMUTheatre.com Through April 21. 517-655-SHOW. Motown Museum “Girl Groups: The Grit, WilliamstonTheatre.org The Glamour, The Glory” 2648 W. Grand Professional Steel Magnolias $15-18 in advance; $2 Blvd, Detroit. March 1 - April 30. 313- 33 Variations $18.50-42. The Purple more at the door. Two Muses Theatre at 875-2264. MotownMuseum.org Rose Theatre Company, 137 Park St., Barnes and Noble Booksellers, 6800 Orchard Pewabic Society “Joe Zajac: New Chelsea. Through June 1. 734-433-7673. Lake Road, West Bloomfield. Through April PurpleRoseTheatre.org Work” Exhibit featuring contemporary 28. 248-850-9919. TwoMusesTheatre.org ceramic art. Pewabic Pottery, 10125 East 35MM . $15. The AKT Theatre Project Tapdance! $18. Broadway Onstage, 21517 Jefferson Ave., Detroit. April 10 - May 27. at Wyandotte Arts Center, 81 Chestnut, Kelly Road, Eastpointe. Through May 11. 313-626-2000. pewabic.org Wyandotte. April 19 - May 4. 734-258-8370. 586-771-6333. BroadwayOnStage.com ww.akttheatre.com Rackham “Celebrating .. Artist, The 39 Steps $23-27. Farmers Alley University, Community” Fourth Floor, 915 A Cabaret Showcase $10-20. University of Theatre, 221 Farmers Alley, Kalamazoo. E. Washington St., Ann Arbor. April 1 - Detroit Mercy Theatre Company at Grounds Through April 28. 269-343-2727. May 10. 734-764-8572. Umich.edu Coffeehaus in the Student Union Building, farmersalleytheatre.com 4001 W. McNichols Road, Detroit. Through River Gallery “big triumph X majestic April 21. 313-993-3270. http://theatre. The Addams Family $29-$69. The Whiting, land” 120 S. Main St., Chelsea. udmercy.edu 1241 E. Kearsley St., Flint. April 26 - April 27. March 30 - May 11. 734-433-0826. 810-237-7333. thewhiting.com ChelseaRiverGallery.com A Conversation with Apple Award Recipient Elaine Stritch $25. Hilberry Trojan Women (After Euripides) $18+. Riverside Arts Center “The 9th Annual Theatre, 4743 Cass Ave., Detroit. 4 p.m. April University Musical Society at Power Center Docent Art Exhibit”. Riverside Arts Center, 27. 313-577-2972. hilberry.com for the Performing Arts, 121 Fletcher St., Ann 76 N. Huron St., Ypsilanti. April 4 - April Arbor. April 27 - 28. 734-764-2538. ums.org 27. 734-483-7345. riversidearts.org A Thousand Circlets $17 in advance, $20 at the door. Detroit Repertory Theatre, 13103 Wicked $45-160. Miller Auditorium, 2200 Saugatuck Center for the Arts Woodrow Wilson, Detroit. Through May 19. Auditorium Drive, Kalamazoo. April 24 - May “Lakeshore Watercolors” 400 Culver St., 313-868-1347. DetroitRepTheatre.com 5. 269-387-2300. millerauditorium.com Saugatuck. March 15 - May 4. 269-857- 2399. SC4A.org Cell Phone Shakespeare Puzzle Piece Theatre, Detroit. April 20. 313-303-8019. The Henry Ford “Designing Tomorrow: PuzzleStage.org America’s World’s Fairs of the 1930s” Art ‘N’ Around Tickets: $17+. Members: Free. The Henry Crane Maiden $10 adult, $5 child. Ann Arbor Art Center “Potential Ford, 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn. PuppetART at Detroit Puppet Theatre, 25 E. 2013” 117 W. Liberty St., Ann Arbor. April 27 - Sep. 2. 313-982-6001. Grand River, Detroit. Through April 27. 313- April 13 - May 12. 734-994-8004. thehenryford.org 961-7777. puppetart.org AnnArborArtCenter.org The Scarab Club “Silver Medal Fidelio $25-125. Michigan Opera Theatre, Black Arts & Cultural Center “Black Exhibition”. 217 Farnsworth, Detroit. Detroit Opera House, 1526 Broadway St., Arts & Cultural Center’s Annual Women’s April 11 - May 11. 313-831-1250. Detroit. Through April 21. 313-237-SING. Exhibit” Gail Sydnor Art Gallery, 359 S. scarabclub.org motopera.org Kalamazoo Mall, Suite 202, Kalamazoo. April 12 - April 26. blackartskalamazoo.org University of Michigan Museum of Art Gem of the Ocean Previews April 19. “El Anatsui: When I Last Wrote to You $25.50-$32. Plowshares Theatre Company Charles H. Wright Museum “Visions about Africa” 525 S. State St., Ann Arbor. at Boll Family YMCA Theatre, 1401 of Our 44th President” 315 E. Warren, Feb. 2 - May 5. 734-763-4186. Umma. Broadway St., Detroit. April 19 - May 12. Detroit. Jan. 1 - April 30. 313-494-5853. umich.edu 313-744-3181. Plowshares.org Thewright.org University of Michigan Museum of Art Macbeth $7-14. Pigeon Creek Cranbrook Academy of Art “Florencia Pita/FP mod” 525 S. State St., Shakespeare Company at Dog Story “OPEN(STUDIOS)” Tickets: $12+. 39221 Ann Arbor. Jan. 19 - June 16. 734-763- Theatre, 7 Jefferson Ave. SE, Grand Rapids. Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills. 12 p.m. 4186. Umma.umich.edu

28 BTL | April 18, 2013 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com April 18, 2013 | BTL 29 Talking Out Your Ass attempts to speak to him. “Pete?” the guy asks, approaching. Dating The room is dark with pink lasers slicing the smoke and Pete turns to me, his eyes glowing Diet with concern. “Oh god,” he says. “Pete. Pete,” the guy calls, approaching. “Hey, it’s me. Roger.” Pete eyes him then me like I’m supposed to BY Anthony Paull give him clues, like I know the identity of this random guy with the nose-ring and Carrot Top shouldn’t talk about my asshole. It’s not that hair. I elbow Pete in the side. amazing. It’s pink and whatever but it’s not “Roger…Roger…Roger!” Pete says, having Ilike it’s the only one that color. an epiphany. If only his acting skills were a level My friends tell me a lot of people dye their above Barbizon his reaction might be plausible. assholes to match my shade so I should be silent What follows is that awkward moment where and thankful. I should just shut up and stop two people know each other online but don’t bragging about it on Facebook. They’re starting know each other in reality. So we stare at each to get mad at me, erasing the naughty things I other smiling like this exchange is normal even post on their walls. But if only we could rewind though Roger has a picture of Pete’s penis on his back to a time when Facebook was fun. Back phone. Isn’t it wonderful how we’ve all become in the day my friends didn’t give a hoot about porn stars in our personal lives? what I posted. Back then they knew better than to “I need another drink,” Pete says, rushing off “friend” their shithead relatives. Now, they delete to the bar. my posts in fear of what others might think. In the darkness I’m left alone with Roger with Can someone tell me what happened? I the big red hair. Unfortunately he doesn’t know remember when my friends would get drunk when to walk away so we shake hands and he tells and post unflattering pictures. Now everyone is me that he plays the accordion and that he just got mature and talking about babies and crockpots back from the hospital because his mother had a and anti-aging creams and going to bed early on hysterectomy. Yeah, he’s that person. school nights. I guess it was bound to happen. “That’s lovely,” I say, gritting my teeth. “Good We’re at that age. But the truth is I don’t ever for you.” want to be so old and mature that I can’t talk “Are you on Facebook?” about things like assholes and sucking on “No.” lollipops and falling asleep with Bic razors up my “Grindr?” ass, because, well, there was that one rogue hair. “No.” “That’s why Facebook invented private “I know I’ve seen your pic before. What are messaging,” my friend Pete reminds me. “Not you on?” everyone is so public about things. I mean…I “Earth…here…in front of you…having have a whole other life in Facebook messages. this really awkward conversation about your It’s like Narnia...starring my dick.” mother’s uterus.” “Oh. Is it a short?” He eyes me dully and I shudder, casually Pete groans explaining that he is involved in looking over at the bar to find Pete is nowhere several love affairs, each on a different social to be found. I don’t know whether to be mad media site. It’s wonderful because he doesn’t or sad. Am I the crazy one or has Facebook actually have to meet the guys. They just give and Twitter and Grindr completely eradicated him the attention he needs when he’s lonely, then the concept of social etiquette? Tell me, how he goes about his day. He states Facebook is the do you go from “here’s a pic of my dick” to a best because the messages can go on for days. casual conversation? A few minutes later Pete “Twitter limits your characters,” he says. “I need apologizes, stating Roger should have known more than 50 characters to translate my stats and better. “He’s acting like a stalker,” he says. needs. Twitter is just so superficial.” But I don’t fault Roger. How is he to know the Presently, Pete is in five pseudo-relationships, dating rules when they’ve become so skewed? each varying in levels of intimacy and meaning. Lately, even with friends, I have a hard time He hasn’t had many problems with it because knowing what’s allowed. Is it OK if I call on the what happens online stays online, according to phone? Should I just text? Maybe I shouldn’t post Pete. He has no intention of actually meeting on his/her Facebook wall. Is it OK to say hello these guys in public. In fact, if he sees them in public? What am I allowed to do? Someone in public he runs the other way or feigns enlighten me. indifference, casually passing them on the street. “You can do whatever you want,” Pete tells “Can you believe it? Some guy actually me on the drive home. “Just don’t be so open expected me to know his name just because I about. That’s your problem, Anthony. You’re sent him a picture of my penis the night before,” too open. You say the most random things in he states, as we grab a cup of coffee. He huffs. public…really loud so everyone can hear. Why “Some people.” do you do that?” Pete finds this humorous until a week later I think for a moment then turn to him. “To when we’re at the bar and one of his “regulars” keep my friends talking.” 30 BTL | April 18, 2013 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com April 18, 2013 | BTL 31