Michigan For Marriage What f***s with one f***s with Launches New Campaign “ us all. Gearing Up For Ferndale Pride 2014 – Whoopi” Goldberg, pg. 14

WWW.PRIDESOURCE.COM MAY 15, 2014 | VOL. 2220 | FREE 2 BTL | May 15, 2014 www.PrideSource.com COVER STORY 4 Picking Sam Cover Photo: Missouri defensive lineman Michael Sam runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in If we’re not the change, Indianapolis, Monday, Feb. 24. AP Photo: Michael Conroy the change is not what we’re “ going to see. – Jon Hoadley, pg .9 ” JOB OPP YELLOW PAGES HEARD ON FACEBOOK NEWS 5 Historic first orf NFL and gay community 6 Michigan for Marriage launches statewide public education effort 7 Gay couples line up for Arkansas marriage licenses 8 Gearing up for Ferndale Pride 9 Gathering looks to foster greater LGBT involvement with religious communities OPINION 10 Parting Glances 10 Viewpoint Job Opportunities For The Pride Season Shop LGBT Friendly With The Join The Conversation With 12 Creep of the Week Pride Source Yellow Pages Between The Lines, 24/7 LIFE Pride Source Media Group is seeking energetic people to work Stop by your local community Join over 5,000 others and tap booths at Michigan’s Pride celebrations. Duties include booth setup center or BTL distribution site into national news, breaking 14 Getting blunt with Whoopi (with help), staffing the booth and being outgoing and friendly, and pick up the latest copy of stories and riveting discussion 16 Drag extravaganza heads to collecting signatures and asking people to complete a politically our Pride Source Yellow Pages. on the “Between The Lines Lansing oriented survey, tear down of the booth (with help). Must be Newspaper” Facebook! 17 The Frivolist Don’t forget! You can also physically able to stand for several hours outdoors. access the directory anytime 19 A story for the ages Applicants must be able to do at least two of these events (or both days online at Pridesource.com. 20 Happenings of Motor City Pride). To apply, send a resume to [email protected] 24 Classifieds by no later than May 23. No calls please. Pay rate is $10 per hour. 26 Puzzle

VOL. 2220 • MAY 15, 2014 • ISSUE 86 EDITORIAL CREATIVE ADVERTISING & SALES ONLINE AT Editor in Chief Art Director Director of Sales PRIDE SOURCE MEDIA GROUP Susan Horowitz, 734.293.7200 x 12 Benjamin Jenkins, [email protected] Jan Stevenson, 734.293.7200 x 22 “Between The Lines Newspaper” 20222 Farmington Rd., Livonia, Michigan 48152 [email protected] [email protected] Phone 734.293.7200 Webmaster & MIS Director Entertainment Editor Kevin Bryant, [email protected] Sales Representatives Follow us @YourBTL PUBLISHERS Chris Azzopardi, 734.293.7200 x 24 Ed Bohach, 734.293.7200 x 15 Susan Horowitz & Jan Stevenson [email protected] Contributing Writers [email protected] Charles Alexander, Michelle E. Brown, Email your op–eds to MEMBER OF Associate Editor Todd Heywood, Jerome Stuart Nichol s, Ann Cox, 734.293.7200 x 13 [email protected] Michigan Press Assoication Benjamin Jenkins, 734.293.7200 x 14 Paulette Niemiec Kate Opalewski, [email protected] National Gay Media Association [email protected] Anthony Paull, Andrea Poteet, Eric W. Rader, National Advertising Representative Sign up online to receive our E–Digest Q Syndicate Gwendolyn Ann Smith, AJ Trager News Staff Writer Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 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 Arts & Theater Editor may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission 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 Calendar Editor made by our advertisers, nor can we accept responsibility for Copyright 2014 Pride Source Media Group, LLC Shelby Clark Petkus, [email protected] materials provided by advertisers or their agents. www.PrideSource.com May 15, 2014 | BTL 3 Michael Sam kisses his partner upon learning he was drafted by Rams. AP photo. Rams Pick Sam, Welcoming 1st Openly Gay Football Player

BY RALPH D. RUSSO When Kensil said: “The St. NEW YORK (AP) – Michael Sam Louis Rams select waited and waited. Hours passed, rounds In the world of diversity we live in now, ... Michael Sam...” came and went, and eventually, there the fans gave a were only eight more picks left on the I’m honored to be a part of this. hearty cheer, third and final day of the NFL draft. “ chanting “Yes! For just a moment, it looked as if his Yes! Yes!” and chance of being picked by a pro team - Rams coach Jeff Fisher said during an interview on ESPN. “Michael Sam!” and becoming the league’s first openly ” Sam was in San gay player might take a detour. Or at Diego watching least be delayed. I’m proud of where I am now.” with friends and The call finally came in Saturday from Sam came out as gay in media family at the home of his agent, Joe the St. Louis Rams, the team right down interviews earlier this year. His team Barkett of Empire Athletes. ESPN and the road from where Sam played his and coaches knew his secret and kept it the NFL Network had cameras there and college ball at the University of Missouri. for his final college season. He went on to showed Sam’s reaction. Sam was selected in the seventh have the best year of his career: He was Sam was on the phone bending over, and final round and admitted it was the co-defensive player of the year in the with his boyfriend hugging him and a frustrating wait. He said teams that nation’s best college football conference rubbing his left bicep. When Sam got off passed on him chickened out and he and had 11.5 sacks. the phone, the tears started. He gave his should have been drafted sooner. The pick came after several rounds boyfriend a big kiss and a long hug as he “From last season alone, I should’ve of suspense. The first round of the day, cried and his eyes reddened. After, they been in the first three rounds. SEC No. 4 overall, came and went, no Sam. shared cake - and another kiss. Defensive Player of the Year, All- Then the fifth and sixth, and finally, the “Thank you to the St. Louis Rams American,” Sam said. He stopped short day was down to just a handful of picks. and the whole city of St. Louis. I’m of directly saying his stock dropped in When Mike Kensil, the NFL’s vice using every once of this to achieve the draft because he came out. president of game operations, walked to greatness!!” Sam tweeted with a frenzied “You know what, who knows? Who the podium at Radio City Music Hall in typo moments after he was picked, with knows? Only the people who sit in the draft’s final minutes to announce the a picture of himself wearing a Rams cap the war room know,” he said. “They Rams’ second-to-last pick, the crowd got and a pink polo shirt. saw Michael Sam, day after day they a sense something was up. Very few of The 6-foot-2, 255-pound Sam was scratched it off the board. That was their the last day picks were announced at the considered a mid-to-late round pick, far loss. But St. Louis kept me on that board. podium. Twitter lit up with suggestions from a sure thing to be drafted. He played And you know what I feel like I’m a the Rams were about to make news. (Jadeveon) Clowney, a first draft pick. See next page

4 BTL | May 15, 2014 www.PrideSource.com ® Picking Sam Continued from p. 4

defensive end in college, but he’s short for that position in the NFL and slower than most outside linebackers, the position Historic First For NFL And Gay Community he’ll need to transition to at the professional level. He was taken with the 249th overall pick out of 256. Players BY JASON A. MICHAEL physical and mental tests in front of the are basically extended tryouts for new from Marist, Maine and McGill University in Canada were NFL coaches and general managers, players hoping to make the roster. But selected before Sam. he visual was stunning. There Sam failed to impress. This caused not all do. Michael Sam is the first “In the world of diversity we live in now, I’m honored for all the (sports) world to many to speculate whether he would openly-gay man ever to have been to be a part of this,” Rams coach Jeff Fisher said during an Tsee on ESPN stood Michael be drafted at all, which opened up a drafted to the NFL. Will he become the interview on ESPN. Sam, crying onto his boyfriend’s new can of public relations worms. If first openly-gay man to actually play The NFL had no comment on Sam being drafted. shoulder and kissing him repeatedly for the NFL? Time The impact of Sam’s selection after learning he had been will tell. goes far beyond football. At drafted to the NFL by the In the meantime, a time when gay marriage is St. Louis Rams. It was a Michael Sam is the first openly-gay we LGBTs celebrate shocking scene even for this initial victory. gaining acceptance among man ever to have been drafted to the NFL. Americans, Sam’s entry into me, a very proud gay man “ All the national the NFL is a huge step toward who has been out since Will he become the first openly-gay man to gay groups have the integration of gay men into before Sam was born. We acknowledged Sam’s professional team sports. Pro gays have been making actually play for the NFL? Time will tell. accomplishment sports have in many ways lagged huge strides as of late. State and alluded to what behind the rest of society in and federal judges have it means for our acceptance. overturned gay marriage community. “Michael Sam wouldn’t bans here in Michigan as he wasn’t, it would give the appearance “We” congratulate Michael Sam have been drafted five years well as in Oklahoma, Utah, that coming out had cost him and that and the St. Louis Rams on their ago,” said former Viking punter Virginia and Texas, all but the NFL was intolerant. terrific decision to draft him,” said Chris Kluwe, who has accused ensuring that the Supreme Tensions mounted as the draft began, Human Rights Campaign President Picking Sam, Rams Welcome Minnesota of cutting him in part Court will take up the especially after right wing Washington, Chad Griffin. “Today, LGBT young because of his vocal support for issue in their next session. DC lobbyist Jack Burkman vowed to people can look to Sam as proof that gay rights. But a gay man making an unleash a “relentless” boycott against being open and proud of who you are In the last year, NBA veteran entrance into the NFL, now any team that chose to draft him. doesn’t keep you from achieving your 1st Openly Gay Football Player Jason Collins has come out that’s something we’ve Nevertheless, Sam was drafted on day dreams. Gay people are our neighbors publicly as gay, and is now never seen before. three in the seventh and final round – and friends. They’re our United States playing for the Brooklyn Nets. Sam could have waited the 249th pick overall – by the Rams. senators and, starting today, they’re Before the Nets’ playoff game until after being drafted “I don’t have any concern our professional football stars.” against the Heat, Collins said to come out, but that’s not whatsoever,” Rams coach Jeff Fisher The Gay and Lesbian Alliance that he was watching the draft and texted Sam after he was how he rolls. He’s a brave man and, told NFL Media columnist Michael Against Defamation shared similar picked. clearly, a man of integrity. When he Silver after the pick was announced. thoughts. “It’s a great day for Michael and his family and for the learned that several scouts knew about “We drafted a good football player. “Without a doubt, this is a game NFL,” Collins said. his sexual orientation, he decided to I’m excited to get him on the practice changer,” said GLAAD President Publicly, most people in and related to the NFL have been make a public announcement so that field and get him going. So yeah, and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis. “Today, supportive of Sam. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has any team interested in him would hear there’s gonna be a little extra tension Michael Sam has redefined what it said Sam would be welcome in the league and judged solely the news directly from his mouth. for a couple days, but Michael was the takes to be a champion. He’s tackled on his ability to play. A few wondered whether teams would “I was afraid that it would leak out SEC Co-Defensive Player of the Year.” stereotypes and joins the ranks of be reluctant to draft Sam because of all the media attention without me actually owning my truth,” It’s worth noting that the last seven athletic trailblazers like Jason Collins that would come with it. Sam told ESPN’s Chris Connelly in SEC Defensive Players of the Year and Brittney Griner in showing Fair or not, the NFL - coming off a season in which a February. “I wanted to let the world were taken in the first round, while Americans that there’s no place for bullying scandal involving players on the Miami Dolphins was know and tell them that, ‘Hey, I’m gay. Sam almost went undrafted. But being homophobia on the field. As support one of the biggest stories in sports - was looking at a possible Let me tell my own story.’” a seventh round draft pick is better than for equality continues to surge, it’s public relations hit if Sam was not drafted. He would likely That story went instantly global not being picked at all. And St. Louis clear that sports fans are ready, football have been signed as a free agent and given a chance to make with pundits weighing in from every might very well be a good fit for Sam. is ready and America is ready for its a team in training camp, but to many it would have looked angle. Though many said there was no He’s played the past four years for the first openly gay NFL player.” as if he was being rejected. room for an openly-gay player in the University of Missouri in Columbia, If the statements seem a bit Now that he’s there, it could be seen as an opportunity league, the NFL took the high road a mere two hours away, so he already grandiose, consider this one by a Sam for the NFL to show that crass locker room culture is not as from the start. has support in the state. fan from Washington, D.C. prevalent as it might have looked to those who followed the “We admire Michael Sam’s honesty Sam took to his Twitter account “The President congratulates embarrassing Dolphins scandal. But all the reaction to Sam’s and courage,” NFL senior vice shortly after he received the news. Michael Sam, the Rams and the NFL news wasn’t positive from the league. president of communications Greg “Thank you to the St. Louis Rams for taking an important step forward Miami safety Don Jones posted a one-word tweet, Aiello said in a statement. “Michael and the whole city of St. Louis,” he in our nation’s journey,” the White “Horrible” shortly after Sam was drafted. It was later taken is a football player. Any player with tweeted. “I’m using every ounce of House said in a statement released down. The team’s general manager said he was aware, and ability and determination can succeed this to achieve greatness.” Sunday. “From the playing field to was disappointed. in the NFL. We look forward to So now we wait and see if he can the corporate boardroom, LGBT Wade Davis, a gay former NFL player who is now the welcoming and supporting Michael do just that: achieve greatness. Being Americans prove every day that you executive director of the gay rights advocacy group “You Sam in 2014.” drafted does not actually guarantee he should be judged by what you do and Can Play,” said that Sam only needs to do his job to have an Then came the NFL Scouting will make the Rams. That depends on not who you are.” impact beyond the field. Combine. At the week-long showcase how well he does at the rookie mini- That’s all that Sam has asked for, “Michael Sam doesn’t have to be a vocal advocate (for gay where college football players perform camps that will follow. These camps and no less than he deserves. rights),” Davis said. “His visibility is his advocacy.”

www.PrideSource.com May 15, 2014 | BTL 5 BRIEFS Michigan For Marriage Launches FERNDALE LGBT Health And Wellness Fair Coming May 17 Affirmations will host its 11th annual Health and Wellness Fair for the LGBT community May 17 from 1-5 p.m. This Statewide Public Education Effort free event includes educational workshops and free and low-cost health services, including screenings for weight, vision, dental, blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, HIV and more. This year, the health fair will once again feature Project Focus On Sharing Stories Of Love, Freedom And Commitment Healthy Living, but welcomes the U of M School of Dentistry and the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, BTL STAFF who will provide dental screenings and referrals onsite. Workshops to be offered include: hormone therapy for gender In an effort to win the freedom to marry transition, the impact of minority stress on heart health and for all couples in Michigan, Equality ways to combat its negative affect and information about Michigan, the ACLU of Michigan and Michigan’s expanded Medicaid plan, Healthy Michigan. Freedom to Marry launched a grassroots “Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people often face public education effort called Michigan numerous barriers in accessing health services. Our annual For Marriage on May 8. The move Health & Wellness Fair represents Affirmations’ commitment comes as the DeBoer v. Snyder marriage to a strong and healthy community and is part of our ongoing equality case advances through the effort to provide a safe space for the LGBT community to federal judicial system. For now the access basic health screenings and important information,” group is not circulating petitions - rather, said Lydia Ahlum Hanson, health and wellness manager. they are focused on conversations with “Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.” the public about the importance of Other features this year include hormone therapy marriage equality. consultations with a pharmacist, and the vendor marketplace “Marriage equality, two words that that will showcase various health related agencies including mean so much to so many. For us, Blue Care Network of Michigan, Thrive Therapy Group, marriage equality means protection for Michigan Educational Partnership, Wentworth & Associates our family and in reality our children,” and the Children’s Center. Other perks include free, healthy said April DeBoer and Jayne Rowse, snacks, a live DJ and a special J-Sette performance by plaintiffs in the DeBoer v. Snyder case. DRAMA. Attendees will also be entered into a free raffle “It means waking up each day knowing that includes prizes from Inn Season Cafe, Changez Salon if something were to happen to one of & Spa, Body Morph and the grand prize of a three-month us that our children would remain in membership from Snap Fitness. the only family they have ever known... On May 8, a statewide grassroots effort was launched to educate the public about same sex Nothing says that you are a family in the couples. Photo courtesy of Michigan For Marriage REMINDER FOR MAY 15 eyes of the law, a true legal family, like percent endorsing marriage equality for working against us to keep us a family. a marriage license. A certificate with our Local LGBTQ Services Look For Support On Give OUT Day all couples. However, we have faith that one day we names on it and a state seal that everyone Michigan For Marriage will promote will be a legal family in our home state May 15th is the second annual national Give OUT Day! The recognizes, finally gives our family the and share supporters’ personal stories of Michigan.” national initiative engages hundreds of organizations and people legal safeties and securities afforded about why marriage matters to them Community and faith leaders from to give in support of the LGBTQ community. LGBTQ groups by a marriage license that all families and their families. This public education across the state have already pledged across the United States are given a chance to “work across should enjoy.” campaign is dedicated to changing hearts their commitment to winning marriage the wide range of issues and activities that matter to the LGBTQ In March, a federal judge ruled that and minds to move marriage forward for all, including Rev. Stanley Jenkins community from sports to policy change, families to the arts.” Michigan’s ban on same-sex marriage for all loving and committed couples. It of First Presbyterian Lansing Church. For the 24 hour period of May 15, LGBTQ and allies can not is unconstitutional. The ruling, coupled aims to generate public discussion about “My support for Marriage Equality only come together to support their local and national LGBTQ with the prospect of a 2016 ballot family, freedom and personal liberty. is rooted in my faith in a loving God organizations, but also help their groups get a chance to win measure on the issue, shows that “We haven’t become officially who calls us into loving relationships of additional prizes. Groups receiving donations from the greatest Michigan is ready for marriage. engaged yet because we don’t want commitment and reciprocity,” stated Rev. number of unique donors will be in the running. “Michiganders believe that our home to get our hopes up just yet. It would Jenkins. “Love is the great equalizer.” The event is hosted by Bolder Giving, which makes no profit state should be a place where every break my heart to formally ask (my Other supporters throughout Michigan from the fundraising event. Since 2007, the non-profit has family is treated fairly and equally partner) Jamiil to marry me, and then have come together to voice their supported all members and groups in the LGBTQ community under the law and where every child be told again and again we cannot wed,” support for marriage and the belief that and has publicly celebrated would-be givers and those who can be raised in a home unharmed by Robert Tompkins of Oak Park said. “We everyone deserves the right to marry give to charities. Funds are collected through Razoo, an discrimination,” said Emily Dievendorf, have already picked out wedding dates the person they love. This campaign is online crowdfunding platform that has partnered with Bolder executive director of Equality Michigan. and looked at rings, but are waiting on an effort supported by representatives Giving. Razoo is a tax-exempt organization, and over 95% of “The Michigan for Marriage campaign Michigan to let us move forward. We from all of Michigan’s political parties. contributions through Razoo are regranted to nonprofits. will share with our friends, neighbors believe that Michigan will do the right “Republicans must support all the Some local nonprofits eligible for Give OUT Day contributions and leadership across Michigan the thing, and respect our family and love core freedoms our Constitution protects, and the possibility to achieve more are: the Ruth Ellis Center, need for marriage equality and remind for one another. This is our home state, including the 14th Amendment’s the Kalamazoo Gay-Lesbian Resource Center (KGLRC), Elsie them that, while love makes a successful and we don’t want to have to move just guarantee that laws must apply equally Publishing Institute, KICK, AFF and more (some may not appear marriage possible, families also need the to say ‘I do.’” to every citizen. Republicans should on Give Out Day’s website). laws to support them.” “We have been together for 18 years,” not support state laws that deny equal Minimum donations are $10. For more information, visit The landscape for marriage is shifting www.giveoutday.org. said Tom and Tod McMillen-Oakley protection by singling out gay citizens rapidly. A February 2014 poll of of Jackson. “Love may have made the Michigan voters showed strong majority family, but the laws of our state are support for marriage equality, with 56 See Michigan For Marriage, page 8

6 BTL | May 15, 2014 www.PrideSource.com Jennifer Rambo, right, smiles as her partner Kristin Seaton, center, hugs Sheryl Maples, left, the lead attorney who filed the Wright v. the State of Arkansas lawsuit on May 10 in Eureka Springs, Ark. A judge overturned amendment 83 Friday, which banned same-sex marriage in the state of Arkansas. Rambo, 26, and Seaton, 27, were the first gay couple to be legally married in the old Confederacy. They arrived about 2 a.m., slept in a Ford Focus and awoke every half-hour to make sure no one else would take a spot at the head of the line. AP photo. Gay Couples Line Up For Arkansas Marriage Licenses BY CHRISTINA HUYNH “When we heard the news in Arkansas, we had to jump in the car to get here,” Butler said LITTLE ROCK, Arkansas (AP) – shortly before receiving the license. “I’m just Couples lined up outside a courthouse before excited to marry my best friend of almost 30 dawn Monday as Arkansas’ largest county years, finally.” began issuing same sex marriage licenses following a judge’s ruling overturning the Using language similar to that southern state’s constitutional ban on same- sex marriage. from the Supreme Court, state “Thank God,” Jennifer Rambo said after and federal judges nationwide Carroll County Deputy Clerk Jane Osborn issued a marriage license to her and Kristin have struck down some same-sex Seaton, a former volleyball player at the University of Arkansas. The Fort Smith couple marriage bans that were enacted in had traveled overnight to ensure they’d be first many states after Massachusetts in line, and wed moments later on a sidewalk near the courthouse. became the first state to Carroll County was believed to be the only county that issued marriage licenses Saturday. recognize gay marriage in 2004. Several courthouses were open for early primary-election voting but staffers said they Later Monday morning, Arkansas Attorney were not prepared to issue marriage licenses. General Dustin McDaniel asked the state’s The Pulaski County clerk’s office issued its Supreme Court to suspend Piazza’s ruling. first same-sex marriage license shortly after McDaniel, a Democrat, has said he supports 8 a.m. After business hours closed Friday, same-sex marriage but has vowed to continue Pulaski County Circuit Judge Chris Piazza defending the ban because he believes it’s his ruled that Arkansas’ voter-approved ban on duty to do so. gay marriage was unconstitutional - heralding Last year the U.S. Supreme Court ruled the arrival of gay marriage in the conservative that a law forbidding the federal government Bible Belt in the South. from recognizing same-sex marriages was More than 100 people gathered outside the unconstitutional. That ruling stopped short of courthouse in the state capital, Little Rock, declaring same-sex marriage legal across the before doors opened Monday. The first license country, but momentum has swung toward gay went to Shelly Butler, 51, and Susan Barr, 48, marriage ever since. of Dallas, Texas, who have been together since Using language similar to that from the they met at Southern Arkansas University in Supreme Court, state and federal judges 1985. nationwide have struck down some same-sex See Arkansas, page 12 www.PrideSource.com May 15, 2014 | BTL 7 BRIEFS AT THE FOURTH CIRCUIT MAY 14 Gearing Up For Ferndale Pride ‘14 One of the fastest moving cases among community, repairing and restoring neglected, the 60 or so lawsuits challenging state bans vandalized or misused areas. To help beautify on same-sex couples marrying is the Bostic the city before Ferndale Pride, visit www. v. Schaefer case from Virginia. This morning, cleantheferndaleup.com or call 248-672-4067. that case will be argued before a panel of one of the nation’s most conservative federal appeals courts, the Fourth Circuit U.S. Court Pride Prom, Rainbow Run of Appeals in Richmond, Virginia. The identity Pride Prom will be held on the eve of the of the three-judge panel is to be released event on 8 p.m., May 30, at the Ferndale Public this morning. The argument begins at 9:30 Library, 222 E. Nine Mile Road. The 21+ and Equality Virginia says it expects to have event will feature a DJ, cash bar, refreshments, more than 100 people at a rally outside. The photos and more. Tickets are $25 in advance, Fourth Circuit says an audio recording of $30 at the door. proceedings will be available on its website. The morning of Ferndale Pride will kick CLAY AIKEN CHALLENGER DIES: off the high-energy day with the Rainbow Businessman Keith Crisco, who was fewer Run. The annual 2k and 5k walk and run than 400 votes behind openly gay candidate winds through downtown Ferndale, where Clay Aiken in the Democratic primary race participants wearing white t-shirts are for North Carolina’s Second Congressional splattered with non-toxic powdered paint. By District, died Monday. The News and Last year’s Ferndale Pride fest was rolling. The 2014 event is planned for May 31. the end of the race, a rainbow of runners and File photo Andrew Potter. Observer reported the Crisco family as walkers show their very visible pride. saying the 71-year-old succumbed from All who support diversity, acceptance, anti- injuries he sustained in a fall at home BY SHELBY CLARK PETKUS “fundraiser” will be held at 9 p.m. on Friday, bullying programs and more are welcome to around midday. He reportedly planned to May 16 at SOHO Ferndale, 205 W. Nine Mile. join the inclusive, fun and family-friendly concede the primary to Aiken on Tuesday. Ferndale Pride is a yearly event in Downtown The no-cover event will feature a contest event. The proceeds benefit area non-profits Aiken issued a statement calling Crisco “a Ferndale celebrating all LGBTQA, featuring for all males, 35 and older, to be crowned including Affirmations, the anti-bullying gentleman, a good and honorable man, and food, entertainment, shopping and more; over the “Hottest Daddy” of Ferndale. Those not program, Upstander, the Ferndale Community an extraordinary public servant.” Aiken will 10,000 people attend each year. This year’s eligible or interested in entering the contest are Foundation and the Ferndale Area Chamber now face incumbent Tea Party Republican event will be emceed by Gay Billy, Nina invited to vote for their favorite, applying $1 of Commerce. U.S. Rep. Renee Ellmers in November. Ross and Natalie Cole. Multiple DJs, rallies for every vote. Together with raffle tickets, the To register for the event, call 248-542-2160 and entertainment will be held throughout proceeds from the event will benefit Ferndale or visit www.rainbow-run.com. Registration HUCKABEE IMPLORES IMPEACHMENT: the downtown area, include a wedding and Pride, helping to keep the event free. for the May 31 event begins at 8:45 a.m. Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee commitment ceremony on the main stage of Outside of nights on the town, Ferndale the day of, and rates range from $15-35 per called on current Governor Mike Beebe, a the event. Food trucks, such as Shimmy Shack Pride is promoting preparation for their May person. Run and walk times are staggered Democrat who opposes same-sex marriage, and Treat Dreams, will be serving throughout 31 as well. beginning at 10:30 a.m. to call a special session of the Arkansas the festival. Blue Care Network is presenting legislature to impeach county circuit Judge a Children’s Area, and a variety of retail and Chris Piazza. Huckabee, according to The nonprofit booths will be present. Volunteer Brunch Hill newspaper, said Piazza usurped the Ferndale Pride will take over the downtown To get more involved in the organization authority of the legislature and the voters If running seems a bit tiring before the Ferndale area this year on Saturday, May 31, of the main event itself, Ferndale Pride all-day party of Pride, Dino’s Lounge will when he declared the state’s ban on same- but festivities don’t have to wait until then. Planning Meetings will be from 7 to 8 p.m. sex marriage to be unconstitutional. The be hosting a bottomless Bloody Mary and All proceeds raised for Ferndale Pride on Thursday, May 15 and Wednesday, May Mimosa brunch for pride from 8 a.m. to 3 state attorney general filed a motion with during May and at Pride will stay within 28 at Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile Road, the state supreme court Monday morning, p.m. on Saturday, May 31. Dino’s is located the community, supporting Affirmations, Ferndale. at 22740 Woodward Ave., Ferndale. seeking a stay of Piazza’s decision; at Michigan AIDS Coalition (MAC) and the On May 17, the Ferndale Community deadline, the state high court had yet to Ferndale Community Foundation. Rosie O’ Foundation will host their annual “Clean the respond. Only five out of Arkansas’ 75 Grady’s is at 279 W. Nine Mile, Ferndale Ferndale Up!” event. The all day, downtown For more information, including an expanding counties have issued licenses to same-sex and will be hosting a variety of pride-related Ferndale event works to clean up the city right list of pre- and post-pride events, visit www. couples. events throughout May and June, including a before the big LGBT event. Clean the Ferndale ferndalepride.com or check out Ferndale Pride’s HAGEL OPEN TO DOD TRANS REVIEW: drag show and brunch the Sunday after pride. Up! brings volunteers, groups, businesses and Facebook page. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said on Another event putting the “fun” in more to help improve public spaces for the ABC’s This Week program Sunday that he is open to having DOD review its policy banning transgender people from the military, but that it’s a “bit more complicated” than gays ® Michigan For Marriage a powerful case in the court of law,” said freedom to marry in the state that they call because of special medical needs. He made Continued from p. 6 Marc Solomon, national campaign director of home, and that includes same-sex couples in his comment in response to a question from Freedom to Marry. “Our campaign will drive Michigan. reporter Martha Raddatz, adding “every the case for why the state’s discriminatory for unequal treatment,” said former state Rep. For more information about the Michigan For qualified American who wants to serve our Leon Drolet, “True conservatives support the ban is untrue to Michigan’s - and America’s Marriage coalition, including how to make country should have an opportunity if they Constitution.” - values. All committed couples in Michigan a financial contribution, pledge to win the fit the qualifications and can do it.” “With our partners in Michigan for should be treated with respect and dignity Marriage, Freedom to Marry is eager to make under the law and fully able to share in the freedom to marry in Michigan and share a - By Keen News Service the strongest case in the court of public opinion freedom to marry.” story about why marriage matters, visit www. just as our movement’s attorneys are making All committed couples should have the MichiganForMarriage.org

8 BTL | May 15, 2014 www.PrideSource.com Gathering Looks To Foster Greater LGBT BRIEFS SCORECARD ON VICTORIES: Counting Arkansas, there are currently 18 states and the District of Columbia with laws that provide for marriage equality. Another nine states have had Involvement With Religious Communities courts strike down their laws banning same-sex marriage. Eight of the nine are on appeal before BY PAULETTE NIEMIEC federal appeals courts. Only cases for two states have been argued at the appeals level –both Several speakers gathered at the Bethlehem before the Tenth Circuit. Tuesday, a case from United Church of Christ in downtown Ann Virginia was argued before the Fourth Circuit. A Arbor Saturday for the Inclusive Justice case from a 10th state, Hawaii, is still pending Conference. The goal of the meeting was to before the Ninth Circuit which has asked for facilitate work between the LGBT and religious briefs by early June on why the case should not communities in order to fight the prejudice, be considered moot. Hawaii’s legislature passed discrimination and hateful attitude that exists a bill last year, eliminating its ban on same-sex today towards lesbians, gays and transgender marriages. people. The religious themed workshop DIFFERENTLY SITUATED: The Kentucky featured politicians, equal rights activists, governor filed a brief May 7, asking the Sixth pastors and laity of a variety of faiths including Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals to reverse a district Christianity and Judaism. court’s ruling that struck down the state’s ban “‘Sacred Activism’ is what we are calling on same-sex marriage. In the brief for Bourke v. it,” said Rev. Roland Stringfellow, one of four Beshear, Kentucky argues that same-sex couples panelists chosen to speak to the audience of who want to marry are not “similarly situated” as approximately 50 people who attended the man-woman couples who want to marry, but are conference. Stringfellow, Senior Pastor of the Michigan Roundtable’s Kevin Hogan, Equality Michigan’s Executive Director Emily Dievendorf, Badland’s “materially different.” Metropolitan Community Church in Ferndale, President Jon Hoadley (who is running for State Rep. from Kalamzoo) and MCCD Rev. Stringfellow, who spoke out boldly throughout the day in favor of reminded the crowd of the purpose for the conference and theme: “We have here a Coalition of Welcoming 53 PERCENT CLOSETED ON THE JOB: A Community a Unity Coalition.” BTL photo: Paulette Niemiec educating those in the community on scriptures report released Wednesday by the Human Rights Campaign’s educational arm says that 53 percent and religious arguments to combat those that honor he shares with his wife Linda), Nelson taken seriously, thus resulting in us losing or have been used to demonize homosexuality. of LGBT people keep their sexual orientation secret feels he is living a much better example of what not winning in places like Royal Oak, where at their places of employment. According to the “Organizing in faith communities is important it means to be a parent, especially a parent of a we should have won by a much wider margin.” to the LGBT community because it’s the laity report, only 17 states and Washington, D.C. have gay son. “If it weren’t for my son, I would have Hoadley acknowledged the fact that religious laws that prohibit discrimination based on sexual who are articulating the issues,” he explained. stayed in a world of ignorance and never learned views (especially those of the conservative This theme of sacred activism resonated orientation and gender identity. Another four the most important thing in life is to love.” right-wing) have fueled the fire for arguments states prohibit discrimination based on sexual throughout the seven hour event and summed Another lay person, Ryan Hayword of the that have ultimately destroyed legislation up what most of the speakers and educators orientation only. The report, “The Cost of the Methodist faith, taught the gathered assembly geared towards protecting the rights of gays, Closet and the Rewards of Inclusion,” surveyed were attempting to achieve at this year’s how to build relationships in the religious lesbians and those considered transgender. He summit. Emotionally charged speeches, 800 LGBT workers and an unspecified number of community in the same workshop as Nelson. noted that religious groups organize and attend non-LGBT workers. education workshops and informative “Finding allies, pastors, government/political political rallies, raising concerns of would be presentations dominated the day. One of figures, the LGBT community, friends, family, voters and legislators to vote against proposed REPORT URGES DOJ ACTION: A May 7 the most heartwarming speeches during a anyone and everyone who’s willing to fight for laws, often resulting in failed propositions report from a coalition of groups working on workshop was presented by Tom Nelson, our cause is what’s important,” said Haywood, that leave the LGBT community unprotected. fair treatment of people by the criminal justice entitled “Building Relationships and Allies in founder of “Rainbow Crossing,” a support Because of many religious groups’ tendency to system recommends the U.S. Department of Faith Communities.” group for gays and lesbians at the First United rally against the LGBT community, Hoadley Justice amend its guidelines to stop profiling of Nelson, author of “An Ordinary Catholic: Methodist Church of Ann Arbor. “Women said he feels LGBT persons need to be more LGBT people and people with HIV by federal law A View from the Pew” and graduate of Notre didn’t get the right to vote by talking to women, educated on religious issues and understand enforcement agents. The “Roadmap for Change: Dame University, shared the story of realizing African Americans didn’t gain Civil Rights by them as a threat to their cause. Federal Policy Recommendations for Addressing his son was gay, as well as recounting his son’s talking to other African Americans; you must Dievendorf’s views reflected these facts. the Criminalization of LGBT People and People with suicide attempt. Nelson explained how he had talk to and educate the straight people in order “We have been trying for 30 years to pass an HIV,” was developed by former NGLTF Executive lived his life following the strict teachings on to get any real justice in this world.” amendment through state legislation to protect Director Urvashi Vaid and former AIDS Project homosexuality in the Roman Catholic Church. As morning passed into afternoon, the panel people’s rights in regards to sexual orientation Director at Lambda Legal, Catherine Hanssens, He maintained conservative views until he of experts – Jon Hoadley, Kevin Hogan, Emily and gender identity and it still hasn’t passed,” among others. In January, DOJ announced it would learned of his son’s brush with death. By Dievendorf and Rev. Stringfellow – reminded she said, confirming that only 20 percent of the revise its rules for federal agents to prohibit the writing his book, appearing at religious themed the crowd of the purpose for the conference cities and commonwealths of Michigan have use of sexual orientation and other characteristics conferences and speaking to other Catholics and theme. “We have here a Coalition of laws protecting the rights of gays, lesbians to prompt investigations. In April, Attorney General every chance he gets, Nelson feels he now is Welcoming Community, a Unity Coalition,” and transgender people. Both Hoadley and Eric Holder said the department would begin doing all he can to be an advocate for the gay said Stringfellow. “That’s what’s necessary for Dievendorf agreed that these protections failing to collect data on people stopped or arrested community. us to have any success. We must stay unified to pass stems from the lack of education and to “reduce” the possible effects of bias, but he “I reflected and realized it was my ignorance in our efforts to educate the public and inform participation of the LGBT community in the did not make specific mention of LGBT bias. In that fueled my former beliefs,” Nelson tearfully all that it’s religiously not a contradiction to religious community and vice-versa. a preface to the coalition report, former NAACP explained following the seminar. “I spent six support the LGBT community.” “If we’re not the change, the change is not President Benjamin Jealous notes that New York months in the library researching the subject of Hoadley, a Democrat running for State what we’re going to see,” said Hoadley. With City police have used “stop and frisk” practices homosexuality before I came to this realization. Representative in Kalamazoo, echoed more religious workshops and seminars planned against LGBT people. Another of the Roadmap’s All my years of education at Notre Dame and Stringfellow’s sentiments, “This is where in the future, and with more churches, pastors authors, Andrea Ritchie, co-coordinator of the my Catholic upbringing didn’t do me any good we’ve made mistakes in the past. We had and laity joining Inclusive Justice, perhaps that LGBT group Streetwise and Safe, said the coalition when I had to confront the fact that it was my situations where the religious right spoke out change will come. members have spoken with DOJ about some failure as a father, and ignorance on the subject against homosexuality and we had no voice to of their recommendations and look forward to of homosexuality, that led to me pushing my son contradict what was being preached. The LGBT conversations in the future. Visit www.inclusivejustice.org for more so far away from me that he attempted suicide.” community ignored the efforts and mobilization - By Keen News Service information. Now as Co-President of PFLAG Detroit (an of the conservative religious, and it wasn’t www.PrideSource.com May 15, 2014 | BTL 9 My 10 Minutes In Heaven (Pt. 2) Job Protections: It’s Time For Parting Glances Michigan To Make Our Values Clear BY SOMMER FOSTER nondiscrimination ordinances (Ann anytime we are reducing harm, on any Arbor, East Lansing, Detroit, Kalamazoo, level, it is important. But, it is not enough. OPINION BY CHARLES ALEXANDER ichael Sam just became the NFL’s Mount Pleasant and Ypsilanti). Similarly, We need uniformity and we need to fill in first openly gay professional Michigan’s largest urban cities and the gaps. There are too many Michiganders y cellphone says 12:03 a.m. My second Mfootball player. The league business hubs have enacted such who lack protections, and it is time for that afterlife minute in heaven. (This brief account doesn’t discriminate – the only thing that ordinances (Ann Arbor, Detroit, Flint, to change. Mis probably an LGBT first.) DISCLAIMER: matters is whether you can play football. Michael Sam just got hired for Unlike many straight accounts, my intent is not to But that’s not the case in 29 states where what he does. And because of the make big bucks on the New York Times Book List. – no matter how talented you are – you NFL’s policy, he can’t be fired for Tho’ I’m tempted. can still be fired just because you’re gay who he is. The NFL has made their I’m now in front of the Many Mansions One-On- (and in 32 states, you can still be fired just Viewpoint values clear. Their nondiscrimination One Temple, greeted by some diva-like creature who because you’re transgender). policy is simple: if you’ve got the by beatific Botox, turns looks like the Red Queen from It’s hard to believe that in today’s day talent, you’ve got a job. It is time for Alice in Wonderland, Christine Jorgensen, Lady T and age, it’s legal to fire a hardworking Michigan to make our values clear. It Tempest and Tallulah Bankhead. (But not necessarily employee from their job or refuse to hire BY SOMMER FOSTER is time for Michigan legislators to step in that angelic order.) someone who’s qualified for a position up and protect ALL Michiganders. It Archangel Diva DeLuxe, as she I.D.s herself, has a simply because they’re LGBT. Most of is time for our laws to reflect who thousand radiant stars in her tiara, and as she speaks, us, 75 percent according to latest polling, Michael Sam just got hired for what he we are, and our belief in fairness she scatters patchouli scented daisy chains around me. agree that people who work hard and does. And because of the NFL’s policy, and equality for everyone, regardless She kisses me gently on my forehead, says “May the play by the rules should be judged on of sexual orientation and/or gender Eternal Mary be with you! Glitter and be gay! Enjoy the same terms – by our credentials, he can’t be fired for who he is. The identity. your stay, however brief your afterlife taste of things experience, education and performance. In the NFL, it only matters how well to come! Oh, yes! Cloud 9 Drag Queen Bingo is 24/7 No hardworking employee should have NFL has made their values clear. Their you do your job. Sign the petition at here!” to live in fear that they can be fired for nondiscrimination policy is simple: if the link below if you think Michigan As I drape a daisy chain around my neck, I suddenly, reasons that have nothing to do with their should follow that example. job performance. you’ve got the talent, you’ve got a job. http://equalityfederation. My instructions are to go to the Seventh In Michigan, non-discrimination salsalabs.com/o/35001/p/dia/action/ ordinances passed in 33 cities and Grand Rapids and Lansing), as have public/?action_KEY=1444 Heaven Condos, corner Oscar Wilde municipalities show that Michiganders many of our most frequented tourist Equality Michigan works on non- Boulevard and Alice B. Toklas Avenue. will no longer stand for discrimination destinations such as Detroit, Traverse discrimination in conjunction with our based on sexual orientation and/or gender City and Saugatuck.” These areas have partners in Unity Michigan. For more exhilaratingly, feel transformed. I selfie myself, pleased identity. Every passing day and every reputations for attracting more young information on how to push for an to discover I now look a svelte, youthful 25, am 75 victory indicate that we are building people, businesses and families. We see ordinance in your community, please visit pounds lighter and underneath my ever-so-radiant, momentum for change. Each municipality people choosing to make their lives in http://dontchangeyourself.com. designer D & G (David & Goliath) choir gown with that has stood up for human rights has many of these areas and choosing to spend snow-white angel wings, I - it’s too good to be true - made the road to amending the Elliott- their free time in these cities. In the process of passing these Sommer Foster is Director of Political have a 32-inch waist. Larsen Civil Rights Act, to include ordinances, we are not only creating Advocacy for Equality Michigan. Foster I’m sure it’s a habit I haven’t outgrown yet, but even protections for sexual orientation and/or gender identity, a little easier. momentum, changing the conversation and organizes Equality Michigan’s local human here in the afterlife I have to check my cellphone. Due to local ordinances, we have building a welcoming Michigan, we are rights ordinance efforts throughout the state Weather: Eternally sunny. Caressing winds. San Diego been able to bring issues of LGBT protecting people. We currently have about and supports activists working for policy 75 til noon. Palms Springs 80 til 5. Ferndale 70 for discrimination to the forefront and shape 20 percent of our population protected. Evening Vespers. change. the conversation like never before. This is wonderful, and important, because My instructions are to go to the Seventh Heaven These ordinances educate people and Condos, corner Oscar Wilde Boulevard and Alice communities about the rights that LGBT B. Toklas Avenue. Winks Archangel DeLuxe, “Ask people are missing. They help point out the concierge Bobby Short for an Alice B. Toklas brownie unsettling fact that someone who lives in when you check in. They’re heavenly!” Royal Oak, but who works in Southfield, My euphoric mood as I float above the afterlife would have protections at home but not at streets of this sparkling, rainbow glowing, technicolor, work. That instance alone makes a great Blue Ray, 3-D, surround sound, stereophonic, multi- case for the need for statewide protection. Broadway, YMCA! chorus enhanced, dreamlike Local ordinances have also served extravaganza, somehow is momentarily jolted. another purpose: they’ve offered legislators Below me is a lone personage, appearance and local leaders over 40 years of evidence nondescript, dressed in what appears to be a drab, that prove that these ordinances make gray striped suit. He’s busy polishing the gold, engraved communities more welcoming to both cobblestone memorial markers of which there are businesses and families. thousands upon thousands. Legislators and local leaders should He looks up. Ever so world weary. Embarrassed. make note of a fact pointed out in the His name tag reads, F. Phelps. Purgatory 10,000 years. Michigan Department of Civil Rights I wave. report on LGBT Inclusion that all of the cities in the Lower Peninsula that [email protected] house our major universities “have local

10 BTL | May 15, 2014 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com May 15, 2014 | BTL 11 Gay Marriage Opponents Invoke Justice Kennedy

Tom Cotton OPINION BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI BY MARK SHERMAN Schuette, who also defended the ban a federal law that denied a range on consideration of race, said in a of marriage benefits to same-sex kay, let’s get one thing straight here. If you are an everyday WASHINGTON (AP) – The filing with the same appellate court couples who were legally married. American citizen (a commoner, let’s say), you have very little pro-gay rights rulings of Supreme on Wednesday, “As Justice Kennedy But federal judges have leaned Olegal power in the United States. Oh, it might seem like you Court Justice Anthony Kennedy recently explained, ‘it is demeaning heavily on its reasoning to strike have power in theory. But most of us, should we have been a key spark in the march to the democratic process to presume down restrictive marriage laws, as be harmed by a company, are basically fucked. toward legalized gay marriage. To that the voters are not capable of have lawyers for same-sex couples. Sure you read about huge class action lawsuits counter the trend, same-sex marriage deciding an issue of this sensitivity Peggy Tomsic, representing with zillion dollar settlements, but those are the opponents now are seizing upon on decent and rational grounds.”’ same-sex couples in Utah, said exception, not the rule. other opinions by Kennedy himself. Schuette added, “There is no the Michigan case confirms the So when people start whining about “frivolous It was Kennedy who last month authority in the Constitution of distinction between policy, where lawsuits,” I get suspicious. Especially since so defended the right of voters to the United States or in this court’s deference to the voters by courts many use the story about the old lady suing decide sensitive issues, in a ruling precedents for the judiciary to set is appropriate, and individual McDonald’s because she spilled hot coffee on that upheld Michigan’s ban on aside Michigan laws that commit this constitutional rights. The Michigan herself as the perfect example of someone trying taking race into account in college policy determination to the voters.” case “did not and could not hold admissions. Lawyers in support of state and that voters can deny constitutional At least five states have invoked county officials in Oklahoma, Utah rights,” Tomsic said in a letter to Since homos are already barred from taking their Kennedy’s opinion in the Michigan and Virginia have made similar appellate judges in Denver. The case to argue that voters and elected arguments. Supreme Court has held that in cases to the court, Cotton is basically saying that any officials, not judges, should choose But fighting Kennedy with regulating marriage, states must discrimination case brought by an LGBT employee whether same-sex couples can be Kennedy may be an uphill battle. The respect constitutional rights. married or have their marriages 77-year-old justice has also written “That principle remains true against a business is automatically “frivolous.” recognized within their borders. the high court’s three strongly pro- whether marriage is regulated by “This case is not about how the gay rights decisions in the past state ballot initiatives or through debate about same-sex marriage 18 years, with powerful language ordinary legislation,” Tomsic said. should be resolved. It is about about the dignity of gay and lesbian In the first of the three high to make a quick buck off of a company with deep pockets. who may resolve it,” Tennessee’s Americans and the humiliation felt court rulings, in 1996, Kennedy But not so fast. To proclaim Stella Liebeck’s suit against McDonald’s governor and attorney general said by children who are being brought up wrote for the court’s majority when frivolous, is to proclaim that you’re an ignorant shit. I dare you to take in an appellate brief filed Thursday, by same-sex parents who may face it overturned a voter-approved a look at pictures of this woman’s injuries. She needed skin grafts and using language lifted almost word discrimination. Colorado constitutional amendment multiple surgeries. And while the corporate media would have you for word from Kennedy’s Michigan In the most recent case, the court forbidding laws to protect gays and believe that she walked away with millions, she did not. Hundreds of opinion. struck down part of the federal lesbians in the state. In the second, thousands? Probably. Does that make her greedy? Fuck no. You know The sentence merely substituted anti-gay marriage law in June, and the court overturned state laws how much she asked for initially? $20,000. The difference between what “same-sex marriage” for “racial Kennedy’s opinion has since been making gay sex a crime. insurance covered and what she had to pay out of pocket for her grievous preferences.” Tennessee is asking cited in an unbroken string of lower- Judges on the 4th U.S. Circuit injuries. McDonald’s had offered her a paltry $800. So she sued. the Cincinnati-based 6th U.S. court rulings in support of same-sex Court of Appeals in Richmond, Liebeck’s case is a shining example of the civil justice system Circuit Court of Appeals to undo marriage. Virginia, will weigh the competing working. Unfortunately, it’s often used to support the lie of jackpot a preliminary ruling that forced To be sure, Kennedy’s opinion writings of Kennedy when they justice, the myth that the American people use the courtroom as a casino. the state to recognize same-sex in that case, U.S. v. Windsor, did hear argument on Tuesday over the Businesses don’t like to be sued. Big surprise. Which is why, even marriages from other states. not strike down state laws against Virginia prohibition on same-sex though it is your constitutional right to seek damages for harm, it’s Michigan Attorney General Bill same-sex unions. It dealt only with marriage. actually hard to sue a giant. And just about every company you do business with wants to keep it that way. Arkansas Supreme Court must policies in the otherwise conservative Which is why it’s no surprise that one of the arguments against the ® Arkansas weigh in. northwest Arkansas. In 2007, the city Employment Non-Discrimination Act, which would protect LGBT Continued from p. 7 Rambo, 26, and Seaton, 27, arrived council unanimously approved a people against job discrimination, is that it will result in a bunch of in Eureka Springs about 2 a.m., slept proposal to create a domestic partner frivolous lawsuits. marriage bans that were enacted in a Ford Focus and awoke every registry. The partnerships confer no Rep. Tom Cotton, a Republican from Arkansas, made that argument in many states after Massachusetts half-hour to make sure no one else special legal status. in a letter sent to a constituent, according to ThinkProgress. became the first state to recognize would be at the head of the line. Among those who let Rambo and “[ENDA] might encourage frivolous lawsuits designed to win big gay marriage in 2004. Initially, deputy clerk Lana Gordon Seaton back up front were Zeek legal fees, not to promote equality before the law,” Cotton writes. “To In Arkansas, Piazza did not said she wasn’t sure she had the Taylor, 67, and Dick Titus, 65, who that end, it would increase the cost of doing business, partly because issue a stay in her ruling, and 75 authority and shooed people from have been together 40 years. of the cost of these lawsuits.” county clerks were left to decide for her office. Taylor confronted Gordon, the That’s right. Businesses would be harmed if they weren’t allowed to themselves whether to grant marriage “We just walked out of here deputy clerk, about closing the office, legally discriminate against LGBT employees, which they are perfectly licenses. crying,” Rambo said. saying “Your job is to issue marriage allowed to do in 32 states (yes, Michigan). Since homos are already If Piazza’s ruling is upheld, When Osborn intervened, other license to everyone that’s here.” barred from taking their cases to the court, Cotton is basically saying Arkansas would join 17 other states same-sex couples let Rambo and Paul Wank, 80, of Eureka Springs, that any discrimination case brought by an LGBT employee against a and Washington, D.C., where same- Seaton return to their place in line. interrupted the exchange, pointing business is automatically “frivolous.” sex marriages have been legalized. “And some of these people here his black cane at Gordon. Cotton’s argument is that businesses are more important than people, On Saturday, 15 same-sex couples have been waiting 50 years and they “You don’t have to be hateful sir,” which is basically Republican Party gospel. Make no mistake, when obtained marriage licenses in the still instructed us to come up front,” the deputy clerk said. he says “frivolous lawsuits,” he’s calling LGBT folks frivolous people. left-leaning tourist town of Eureka Rambo said. “You’ve been hateful to people People who are not worthy of protections, who have always been denied Springs. Other Arkansas counties Eureka Springs, an Ozark Mountain like me for years. So keep up,” Wank their constitutional right to sue, who deserve to have both the office door have refused to issue same-sex town of about 2,000, is known for said. “You’re doing everything you and the courtroom door slammed in their faces. marriage licenses, saying the its arts environment and liberal can to stall.”

12 BTL | May 15, 2014 www.PrideSource.com

Photo: HBO Entertainer Shrugs Off Gay Rumors, Talks Being ‘Claimed’ By The LGBT Community

BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI pot – actually, don’t even bother. She the Apollo, Mabley was also known funniest woman in the world,” the If you weren’t funny, you didn’t just wrote a column about it. Whoopi to be a lesbian, a topic discussed longstanding rumors of Goldberg’s work. Your sexuality, who you ever one to give a flying loves a blunt. in “Whoopi Goldberg Presents own sexuality and her commitment were – whether you were a man or you-know-what, Whoopi It makes a lot of sense, then, Moms Mabley,” a Goldberg-funded to the fight for gay rights. a woman – didn’t matter. Funny NGoldberg has made a that one of Goldberg’s earliest documentary featuring a roster of trumps everything. career out of not caring. Ask her comedy heroes is veteran standup comedy big shots: Joan Rivers, How do you think a black lesbian about her sexuality – to some, a Jackie “Moms” Mabley, the 20th- Eddie Murphy, Bill Cosby and like Moms managed to have such You were an early ally of the lingering enigma since the ’70s, century trailblazer – and later, a Kathy Griffin. a following in the ’20s and ’30s, a LGBT community at a time when when Goldberg made lots of lesbians civil rights activist – known for a so- In this recent interview with time when homosexuality would’ve identifying as such was a much laugh at San Francisco comedy what attitude, her edgy humor and Whoopi, the comedian-actress likely been a career breaker? bigger risk. At that point in time, clubs – and she doesn’t get all the dressing like your grandma. The first talked about how being a lesbian had people would automatically assume fuss. Ask her what she thinks about female comedian to be featured at no effect on Moms becoming “the Nobody was thinking about it.

14 BTL | May 15, 2014 www.PrideSource.com an ally was someone who just did not want to say anything. Somebody’s gonna think I’m come out of the closet. (gay).” It’s like, you’d be lucky if somebody (Laughs) That’s what people thought! It was thought you were gay! That’s my response ridiculous. I was like, “Uh, no.” People just to everybody. If that’s what you’re freaking didn’t understand. You see bad situations out about, then you’re concerned about the or stupid situations, like folks having an wrong thing. issue with who you cared about, who you In 2008, you held up a sign that said “For wanna be with, all that kind of stuff that has nothing to do with the realities of our My Friends – Equal Rights” during a Prop world. The realities of the world I grew up 8 protest in New York. In 2010, you joined in was: It was nobody’s business. If you’re Cyndi Lauper in the launch of her Give a not doing your job, then I’m gonna bitch. Damn Campaign to raise awareness of LGBT But I’m not gonna bitch at anybody ’cause discrimination. But your gay advocacy dates they’re gay, or because they weigh a lot back even further than that: You pushed an more than me. At the time, it just seemed AIDS-stricken man in a wheelchair in the 1987 so stupid to me that this was what people’s March on Washington. What motivated you to issues were. become an ally? As an ally and as someone with a long history Well, sure, there’s all of that, but I’ve in the movement, what’s your take on the role always had gay people in my life. I mean, you played then and the evolving nature of I grew up in Chelsea, a neighborhood that being identified as an ally? has all kinds of folks, because nobody had any money. We were all poor. There I don’t know yet. There was nothing were men you’d call “uncle” who never anybody could do to me then, because I felt seemed to have girlfriends, and they were that these were my friends and my people, your “uncle.” Later on you learned what it and no one had a right to judge them. I don’t meant. These guys didn’t want to be with want people messing with me, so I defend these girls. They had their love from their everybody’s right to be themselves. That brothers. They wanted their men. has always been my battle cry. I think now, people get it. They understand it because And Moms, despite talking about young men in they’re looking at themselves saying, her act, had a thing for the ladies. “This is how I am.” I know if somebody’s Yeah, she worked a great game. messing with me, I don’t wanna hear it. I have to stand up. Get off my stage. She was all about living life on her own terms. Moms must remind you of yourself in that sense. People have long speculated about your sexuality, haven’t they? It’s crazy – she’s very much like me. Very much! Like her, I’m always trying to get (Laughs) Yeah! And it’s like, there are a lot the gig, and it can be a bit difficult because worse things people could have accused me I’m not conventional. of – things that would really be upsetting! There’s many things people can wonder That’s not one of them. It never has been. about, but if you don’t know by now, it’s I grew up in the theater. I grew up in a because you don’t wanna know. I say to neighborhood where there was always people, “Well, what do you think I am?” gay folks. Always! So I never understood They say, “We think you’re gay.” I say, “If people’s freak out about it. Everybody is so that’s what you wanna think, OK!” damn paranoid about everything. They’re so I have been gay in films. I’ve done two: concerned that (people) are gonna be like, “The Color Purple” and I always forget “Oh, somebody’s gonna think I’m gay.” So what the other one is. People assume they what! What happens if they do? know because they’ve seen you in a movie Considering how long people have wondered or because they’ve seen you do something how you swing, watching “Moms Mabley” made or they’ve heard you say something, and then they make assumptions. Quite me think: Should a documentary be made about honestly, I was glad to be claimed. your life one day, how do you want people to characterize your sexual identity? We were happy to claim you. I don’t care. Don’t care! Because I’ll Yes! You know, no one was trying to claim probably be gone by then! (Laughs) With me, nobody wanted me. Black folks didn’t all the amazing people who have come out, want me. Nobody wanted me. But I’ve if you’re still talking about my sexuality – always been claimed by the gay community. I’m the one you choose – you’re not doing Always. your job. And maybe that’s why people have assumed But don’t you think celebrities also play a you’re anything but straight. Through the role in the gay rights movement just by being years you’ve even made some vague remarks themselves? regarding your sexuality. For instance, on “The They do now. But there was a time when View” in 2009 you told Barbara Walters, when people were like, “Oh, no, I’m not gonna See Whoopi, page 18 www.PrideSource.com May 15, 2014 | BTL 15 Drag Extravaganza Heads to Lansing Cool Cities Lansing BY SHELBY CLARK PETKUS homemade vegan and vegetarian options. Outside of the upcoming An “All Star” Drag Show is drag show, check out the bar’s YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD • YOUR MARKET coming to Lansing’s Avenue live music every day except Pinpoint your ad dollars where Cafe this month, just in time to Tuesday. Tuesdays become board launch the Pride season. game nights at the establishment. they will do the most good . . . The jam-packed event will The Avenue will also host Advertise in the next Cool Cities feature over a dozen queens, Super Happy Funtime Burlesque including Bianca B Spectacula on Saturday, May 31 at 9 p.m.. TO PLACE AN AD CALL 734.293.7200 Swinford, Eva Angelica Stratton, The 18-and-over show is $10 Soranie Hirpo, Jalaya Gilante and features a comedic burlesque and many more. DJ Lipgloss will performance that has made the provide music. group one of West Michigan’s Ace Deville will host the more unique acts. show. Known for emceeing The drag show begins at 10 many of Lansing’s Spiral Dance p.m. on Thursday, May 29 at The Bar events, Deville recently Avenue Cafe, 2021 Michigan parted ways with the well-known Ave., Lansing. Doors open at club. She now brings her drag 7 p.m.; it’s suggested to arrive to multiple Lansing and West early before the show for a Michigan events. seat. There is a $5 cover. For A self-titled “eccentric bar,” more information, call the The Avenue serves as a bar, live Avenue at 517-853-0550 or visit music venue, meeting space and www.avenuelansing.com. cyber cafe. The cafe features a full bar with an emphasis on For more LGBT events in Lansing, Michigan craft beer as well as check out BTL’s calendar at a diverse menu with multiple www.pridesource.com/calendar.html.

16 BTL | May 15, 2014 www.PrideSource.com The Frivolist 10 Practical Wedding Gifts For Your Gay Buddies

BY MIKEY ROX without having to go to the gym. don’t want to commit to a year’s worth of service, there’s also a Frisque Wedding season unofficially Honeymoon Box, which is a one-time kicks off this month, and with more 3. Dance Classes only purchase. and more states deeming same-sex If the two who are saying “I do” marriages legal you’re bound to have four left feet, present them receive an invitation to your friends’ with a pre-wedding gift of dancing 9. Deep Cleaning fabulous nuptials any minute. And lessons. Attending several sessions Service that means you’ll need to buy a gift. a few months before the wedding Instead of sticking to the registry, will give the rug-cutting duo more We gays like to keep a clean house however – do they really need more confidence on the dance floor when (most of us anyway), and while stuff? – think outside the Crate and they take center stage as husbands or weekly spot cleaning is a breeze, the Barrel box and opt for a practical- wives for the first time. This comes twice-yearly deep clean is a burden. but-still-thoughtful present that the with an additional cost, however: It Help ease it for your freshly married happy couple can put to good use. will also be your responsibility to friends – who should be spending their Here are 10 ideas to get you started. stay alert throughout the night so you first year having fun under the sheets can simmer ’em down when they instead of sweeping behind the stove – start to get too jiggy with it after the by surprising them with several hours 1. Date-Planning fourth or fifth celebratory cocktail. of cleaning services scheduled for the Subscription Just wait; it’ll happen. beginning of spring and fall. Date-planning services – like HowAboutWe Couples and 4. Home Repair Supplies 10. Language-Learning Kahnoodle Concierge – are tricky Home repairs (even small ones) Software because they often only serve a start to add up quickly – especially One of the advantages of your limited area (New York City for the if you have to hire someone to do friends being gay and bound by former; San Francisco and D.C. for them for you. To help alleviate this marital law is that they’re likely the latter), but you may be able to find necessity and the cost associated a DINK (Dual Income No Kids) a similar concept in the area in which with it, surprise the lawfully wedded couple that has money to burn. (No your newlywed friends live. Date with a hodgepodge of tools and offense to all you gay parents out options run the gamut of uncommon other household must-haves given there, of course, but your days of jet- experiences like ring-smithing classes, in a nice toolbox for convenient setting are over for a while.) Thus, fencing lessons and body-painting and aesthetically pleasing storage. other couples with whom they have traditionalists – and more power to sessions to more tame outings like Another helpful around-the-house something in common. them. To make the name-changing they have the incredible opportunity comedy shows and wine tastings. To idea is to gift painting essentials process stress free, set them up to see the world at their leisure if help keep the first year of marriage – trays, rollers, brushes and drop with HitchSwitch, an online name- they’re savvy savers. You can help make their vacation even more fresh and fun for your friends, gift cloths – with a gift certificate to 6. Home-Brewed Craft changing service that removes all enriching and fulfilling by gifting a year subscription to one of these a nearby hardware store so they the hassle of assembling, filling out Beer them language-learning software. If services so the pair can enjoy quality can choose their favorite colors to and filing forms for just $50. True, you know them well, you probably time together while participating in an freshen up their home. If your pals are known beer lovers, it’s not a super exciting gift, but it’s know which language to choose; activity they may never have thought add a personal touch to one of their one less thing they’ll have to worry if not, pry for some information. of themselves. favorite beverages by brewing a about as they start their new life The beauty of language-learning 5. Cooking Lessons case of homemade suds. To add together – and they’ll appreciate that software – besides becoming part of Cooking isn’t everyone’s favorite even more flair, dress the bottles sentiment very much. 2. Moving Crew an entire population of people with hobby (in most cases because they with custom labels that you can whom they can now converse – is don’t know how to do it well, so order online that celebrates their Remember the last time you they avoid it), but it’s one of those wedding day. The recipients will 8. Frisque Gay Box that it’s conducive to couples using moved and you swore you’d never few daily opportunities of which enjoy kicking back and relaxing with Membership it together, which will help fortify do it again without the help of spouses can take advantage to grow what you’ve made exclusively for their relationship even more. them, and they’ll likely think fondly (preferably hard-bodied, shirtless) closer by creating something they’ll There are numerous sex-toy Mikey Rox is an award-winning of your creativity and care every subscription services available these movers? If your just-married pals are both savor. If your friends aren’t journalist and blogger whose work has relocating soon, do them a solid and time they crack off a cap. days, but most of them cater to the exactly kitchen savvy, introduce been published in more than 100 outlets hire the same for them. Granted, this them to the wonderful world of from- hetero crowd. Enter Frisque Box, a across the world, including CNN.com, can be quite pricey, so if you can’t scratch satisfaction with cooking sensual subscription service that caters afford to hire several hours of full- lessons. Private lessons can be held 7. HitchSwitch Gift Card specifically to gay and lesbian couples. The Huffington Post, The Advocate, service moving, get your best group in their home, or you can find a local It’s not as common in gay Boxes filled with bedroom toys and Instinct magazine and Out.com, among of gays to commit to helping the establishment that offers lessons. The marriages as it is in straight unions other pleasure products to keep the many others. He lives in Manhattan couple start anew. The only cost of latter will be much less expensive than for one partner to change their spark flickering and frolicsome are with his husband and their cuddle- going this route is time and energy, the former, and it’ll give your friends last name to the other partner’s, sent bimonthly, discreetly to their buddy furbaby. Connect with Mikey on plus you’ll get in a great workout an opportunity to mix and mingle with but plenty of LGBT couples are doorstep, for $55 per cycle. If you Twitter @mikeyrox. www.PrideSource.com May 15, 2014 | BTL 17 I don’t want people messing with“ me, so I defend everybody’s right to be themselves. That has always been my battle cry. I think now, people get it.” ® Whoopi Continued from p. 15

she made a comment about you coming out of the closet, “Please, that door’s been open for years.” Is your sexuality something you prefer to leave ambiguous? No, I’m pretty clear. You’ve never seen me with a woman. Pretty much been married to men the whooole time! Not the same, but a few of them. (Laughs) Nah, I’m straight, but what does it mean? What does it really mean? It means you play a lesbian in “Boys on the Side” and people jump to conclusions. Yes, that’s the other one! Thank you. I love that movie. I always forget “Boys on the Side” because I did “The Color Purple” and I know people saw that first. What’s gayer: playing an actual lesbian or a singing nun? It’s all a challenge because you always have to find out what your sweet spot is in a piece. My sweet spot in “Boys on the Side” was how much I loved Mary-Louise (Parker, who played Robin). The sweet spot for “Sister Act” was really religion – that everybody can have some relationship to religion and it doesn’t have to be what everybody else thinks that relationship should be. I love that answer, but I think you misinterpreted my question. I’m sorry. I’m on a cell phone. I can’t hear shit, honey! We’ll just go with what you think I said. I love you already. Whatever happened to your nun’s habit from “Sister Act”? I think I sent it to France. Everybody needs something for Halloween. Thanks for chatting, Whoopi, and also for being an ally. Your advocacy in the gay community has meant a lot to a lot of people. Well, we’re all one people, baby. People keep trying to divide us up into “you’re gay, you’re black, you’re white,” but we’re all one people. What fucks with one fucks with us all. If we don’t recognize that, we’re in deep trouble.

18 BTL | May 15, 2014 www.PrideSource.com A Story For The Ages: Yet Again, Love Conquers All

BY JOHN QUINN

“Turandot” is an Italian opera based on a Persian folk tale set in China. Its multiculturalism is positively all- American. Michigan Opera Theatre closes its 43rd season with a stunning production of one of the grandest of grand operas. “Turandot” was composer Giacomo Puccini’s last work and remained unfinished at the time of his death in 1924. (It is recorded that he died with the manuscript in his hands.) There’s universal appeal in the work, because Puccini and his librettists, Guiseppe Adami and Renato Simoni, chose a plot so basic, so “human” that its main device transcends cultures and is familiar everywhere – The Riddle Game. Once upon a time in China, far, far away there lived a princess “beautiful as jade, cold as steel,” named Turandot. Heartless and cruel, she had sworn a sacred oath that no man would possess her unless he answered three riddles. The price of failure was death. On the night the unlucky Prince of Persia loses his head, Calaf is reunited with his elderly father, Timur, the deposed King of Tartary. Timur wanders through the lands, accompanied by one faithful servant, Liu, a slave girl who has secretly loved Prince Calaf since the time he once smiled at her. Princess Turandot appears, and Calaf “Turandot” closes Michigan Opera Theatre’s 43rd season. Photo: John Grigaitis is immediately head over heels in love. Fortunately, he keeps that head; he answers REVIEW parts are double cast. On May 16 and the riddles. Turandot regrets her oath, and 18, “Turandot” will be sung by soprano refuses to marry him. Calaf boldly offers Turandot Othalie Graham and Calaf by tenor her an out: If she discovers his name before Giancarlo Monsalve.) dawn, she can chop off his head. There is Michigan Opera Theatre at Detroit Opera House, 1526 Broadway St., Detroit. 7:30 Soprano Donata D’Annunzio tragedy, there is triumph, but all good folk p.m. May 14, 16 & 17, and 2:30 p.m. May Lombardi sings the role of the fragile tales end with “And they lived happily 18. 3 hours (with 2 intermissions). $25- Liu; her aria, “Signore, ascolta!” is a ever after. 125. 313-237-SING. wonder of inflection and modulation. The MOT production is a visual and www.michiganopera.org A gory story needs a little comic relief; aural delight. Massive set pieces evoke in “Turandot,” that would be its three the majesty of ancient Peking; a massive of the most challenging in the repertoire, courtiers, Ping, Pang and Pong. And while chorus under the direction of Suzanne but Lindstrom soars through her aria, a modern sensibility might find the names Mallare Acton offers rich voices in “In questa reggia,” brilliantly balancing mildly racist, the roles are exuberantly keeping with their striking costumes. the fire and ice of her character. Korean rendered by Eugene Villanueva, Julius Ahn Conductor Valerio Galli, making his born and Italian trained, Rudy Park owns and Scott Ramsay with just the right touch MOT debut, brings out a warm, lush an exceptionally broad lower range, a of whimsy. The trio sings “Ho una casa nell sound from his orchestra. The tempo is relentless force beating down opposition. honan” with such a sense of yearning it sprightly, but romantic. His third act aria, “Nessun dorma,” which would touch the heart of the iciest princess. When discussing the principal singers, has taken on a pop culture life of its own, Binding this complex project together the first word that comes to mind is is memorable; he easily rises above the is stage director Garnett Bruce, whose “power.” Soprano Lise Lindstrom and musical crescendo to deliver the extended breadth of vision resulted in a memorable tenor Rudy Park making their MOT high “B “that marks the piece. night at the opera. If “Turandot” is a debut are extraordinarily well paired. (As is common in productions with reliable indication, Michigan Opera The role of Turandot is considered one strenuous vocal scores, the principal Theatre is in for a glorious Season 44. www.PrideSource.com May 15, 2014 | BTL 19 premiere viewing of Olivier Wevers’ A handicap accessible using ramp Circle of Life: Pet Ownership Midsummer Night’s Dream, and more. to rear entrance. Bisexual Peer Discussion and Support Group 6:30 Tickets: $25. Grand Rapids Ballet, Group, 319 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. p.m. Led by a licensed counselor. 341 Ellsworth SW, Grand Rapids. 734-678-2478. Biprideannarbor@ Share stories, frustrations, grief and Grballet.com gmail.com Facebook.com/ successes. Tail Wagger’s 1990, 28402 groups/110918256984/ Five Mile Road, Livonia. 734-855- Create. Center for the Study of Healthy Living (PHL), Multiple. 313- GLBT AA 8 p.m. Jim Toy Community 4077. Tailwaggers1990.org OUTINGS Equality and Human Rights, 329 531-9108. Projecthealthyliving.org Center, 319 Braun Court, Ann Arbor. Pride NA 6:30 p.m. Confidential and King Hall, Ypsilanti. 734-487-3032. 734-995-9867. Jimtoycenter.org anonymous. Open to all individuals Life’s a Stitch 6:30 p.m. Open Thursday, May 15 Equalityleadership.com Pre-Pride: Garden Event 9 a.m. impacted by addiction. Kalamazoo Gay to those who Crochet, Knit, Quilt, Kalamazoo Gay and Lesbian Resource Detroit Erotica Ball 9 and Lesbian Resource Center, 629 Needlepoint, Macrame and Jewelry. Twisted Games Party games and fully Spring into the Arts Art Walk 5 Center, Kalamazoo. Kglrc.org p.m.complimentary red carpet photos, Pioneer St., Kalamazoo. 269-349- Free. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile nude strippers. 18+. Spiral Dance Bar, p.m. Featuring interactive “Art of midnight buffet, parking and more. 4234. Kglrc.org Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. 1247 Center St., Lansing. 517-894- Meet Your Best Friend 10 a.m. Drag” exhibit. BCPRC, Battle Creek. Dress code enforced. 18+. Tickets: Goaffirmations.org 1315. Spiraldancebar.com Battlecreekpride.org Hundreds of dogs, cats, puppies and $25-35. Detroit Erotica Ball, 2739 Euchre Tournament 7 p.m. Battle kittens will be available for immediate Russell St., Detroit. Detroiteroticaball. Creek Pride Resource Center, 16 Public Issues Forum 7 p.m. This Free HIV Testing 2 p.m. Free, Womyn’s Film Night 7 p.m. Film: A adoption to loving homes at one of the com E. Van Buren St., Battle Creek. group studies and profiles local and anonymous HIV testing is available Family Affair - Dyed-in-the-wool New nation’s largest off-site companion Battlecreekpride.org state political issues and candidates. at S3 Safe Sex Store every Thursday Yorker Rachel moves to San Diego, animal adoption events. Detroit Zoo, Battle Creek Pride Resource Center, until 8 p.m. Testing is performed Sunday, May 18 where her parents now live, in search 8450 W. 10 Mile Road, Royal oak. Salon Sunday 7 p.m. Free cabaret 16 E. Van Buren St., Battle Creek. by HARC staff. Call to schedule an of a new life and a new love. When 248-541-5717. Detroitzoo.org Get Out Bike - Stony Creek concerts. Five 15, 515 S. Washington Battlecreekpride.org appointment, but walk-ins are more her mother, who’s adapted quite well Metropark 9:45 a.m. Get Out Ave., Royal Oak. 248-515-2551. than welcome. S3 Safe Sex Store and to the laid-back California scene, Storytime with HSHV 11 a.m. This Bike, 4300 Main Park Dr., Shelby Five15.net Transgender Life Support 7 p.m. HIVAIDS Resource Center, 1209 S. wants to set Rachel up with a woman Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile University, Ann Arbor. 734-741-1434. named Christine, Rachel refuses at Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. [email protected] S3safesexstore. first. But after relenting and meeting Goaffirmations.org com Christine, she finds herself in a real Editor’s Pick Karaoke 9:30 p.m. Hosted by KJ Les. Detroit Elders 5 p.m. Discuss romance and that’s when Rachel’s old aut Bar, 315 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. and address issues specific to flame, Reggie, pops up unexpectedly. The Center for the Study of Equality and 734-994-3677. Autbar.com the LGBT community as we “age Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile Human Rights will host the Equality Leadership in the D.” Detroit Elders, 4750 Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. Wednesday, May 21 Woodward, Detroit. 313-833-1300. Goaffirmations.org/ Colloquium this weekend at Eastern Michigan [email protected] Senior Koffee Klatch 1 p.m. A lively, Movie Night 7:30 p.m. Movies of an University. Under the motto “Learn. Discuss. discussion and social group for LGBT Dining for Dollars 6 p.m. Join LGBT nature. Free. Battle Creek Pride Connect. Create.,” the colloquium is for adults over 45. Group covers topics Resource Center, 16 E. Van Buren St., community supporters for a night of professionals, especially in higher education, to pertaining to aging and outside festivities at HARC’s largest annual Battle Creek. Battlecreekpride.org speakers. Potluck dinners at members fundraiser! The event features dinner, We Are the Dreamers of Dreams identify, discuss and create movement on trends homes, lunches out and holiday prizes and a sundae bar. Tickets: 8 p.m.come join all of us music- and issues affecting LGBT persons. parties. Meets ever Wednesday on $125. HIV/AIDS Resource Center, makers for a night of music about the upper level of the Affirmations 2501 Jackson Ave., Ann Arbor. 734 our aspirations and dreams of a The program will feature a variety of lectures and building. Senior Koffee Klatch, 290 W. 572-9355 ext. 261. cmcmullen@ better world for everyone. We’re in Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398- hivaidsresource.org Hivaidsresource. the Anderson Room at the Union. speakers throughout the day. The event’s keynote 7105. GoAffirmations.org org/dining-for-dollars Accompanied by Edie Herrold on bass speaker is T.J. Jourian, a pansexual Middle Mid-Week Meditation 6 p.m. Prohibition and All That Jazz 6 p.m. & Tamara Perkuhn on percussion with Eastern transman who works as a speaker, trainer and more. The opening speaker, Kristen Renn, Suggested Donation: $3. Michigan Paul Haebig directing and Annie Jeng Hop on board and enjoy a fun-filled, Ph.D., is the director of the National Survey of LGBT Student Success at Michigan State University. Pagans, 195 W. Nine Mile Road, rollicking ride through the streets on piano. Tickets: $0-18. Out Loud Suite 1B, Ferndale. Meetup.com/ Chorus, 530 S. State St., Ann Arbor. of Detroit. Explore the old stomping The Equality Leadership Colloquium begins at 9 a.m. May 16 at 329 King Hall in Eastern Michigan michiganpagans grounds of the Purple Gang and 734-265-0740. outloudchorus@gmail. their rivals, which are now historic com Olconline.org University, Ypsilanti. For more information or to register for the event, call 734-487-3032 or visit Toastmasters Meeting 6 p.m. Do you have fear of public speaking? Well neighborhoods. Hear stories and fun FOXFEST! Women Musicians www.equalityleadership.com. facts spiked with a few grizzly details. never fear Toastmasters is here! Come Rock for Women’s Shelters 9 p.m. join us and learn to how to get over and learn about Al Capone’s mark on Features four female fronted Detroit Detroit. See famous landmarks and that fear. Kick - The Agency for LBGT rock bands raising donations for three African Americans, 41 Burroughs St. sites including the Detroit River which local shelters Turning Point, Lacasa program pairs children ages 2-5 Township. Meetup.com/GOAL-Get- Server Sundays 9 p.m. Bring in a was the center of smuggling booze with animal interactions, as well as paystub or POS card. Discounts for Ste. 109, Detroit. 313-285-9733. Center and Alternatives for Girls. Out-And-Live-LGBT [email protected] from Windsor, Canada. Explore a Bands performing are White Shag-The stories, activities and crafts. Humane those in hospitality industry. aut Bar, former speakeasy and brewery. Revel Luckouts-Downfall-Meridith Lorde Society of Huron Valley, 2513 Jackson Northwest Unitarian Universalist 315 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-994- in the rich history of Jazz in Detroit & The Tainted Saints. Two women Ave., Ann Arbor. 734-662-0600. Church 10 a.m. We are a welcoming 3677. Autbar.com Thursday, May 22 and experience great live music at congregation. Please join us for artists Julie Fournier and Christen Nicolasbooks.com Showbiz Sunday 10 p.m. Delicious, $6 at 6 a.m. 6 a.m. Cash only or Bert’s Jazz Club to top off a fabulous services every Sunday at 10am. Carolin and two vendors CreepynCute Maria Mirelez, DJ Lipgloss and more. class passes. Tickets: $6. Namaste night!Tickets: $49. Feet on the Street LGBT Health & Wellness Fair 1 p.m. Northwest Unitarian Universalist Shop and Rock n Rummage will be Additional showtimes at 11 p.m. Yoga, 399 S. Troy St., Royal Oak. Tours, Detroit. 248-353-TOURS. The health fair will again feature Church, 23925 Northwestern Hwy, there too! Static Network, 715 E. Project Healthy Living, but will also and 12 a.m. Spiral Dance Bar, 1247 248-339-9642. Namaste-yoga.net feetonthestreettours.com Milwaukee, Detroit. 313-873-2955. Southfield. 248-354-4488. office@ include free healthy snacks, raffle northwestuu.org northwestuu.org Center St., Lansing. 517-894-1315. Connections 6 p.m. Open to all The Parent Network 6 p.m. This [email protected] On. fb. me/ prizes, a live DJ and a special J-Sette Spiraldancebar.com jb3wy0 LGBTQ and Ally youth from 13-18. group aims to assist parents in performance. Affirmations’ Health & Dykes on Bikes - Hell Ride 11:45 Join us to meet other LGBTQ and Ally understanding their child’s identity, Hot Daddies at Soho 9 p.m. Think Wellness Program, 290 W. Nine Mile a.m. Dykes on Bikes, 290 W. Nine Monday, May 19 teens and socialize in a safe space. while also giving parents the Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. you’re the hottest daddy in Ferndale? Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. Restorative Yin Yoga with Kalamazoo Gay and Lesbian Resource opportunity to socialize with other Goaffirmations.org Males 35+ can put their name in the Goaffirmations.org Meditation 6:45 p.m. Get pampered. Center, 629 Pioneer St., Kalamazoo. adults who have LGBT children running for this first of its kind Hot Mad Hatter’s Golf 1:30 p.m. Proceeds Outpouring 12:30 p.m. LGBT- GOAL, 1945 Pauline Blvd., Ann Arbor. 269-349-4234. Kglrc.org Kalamazoo Gay and Lesbian Resource Daddy contest to benefit Ferndale benefit women in need and fighting affirming service. Non-denominational Meetup.com/GOAL-Get-Out-And- Gender Hormone Counseling Center, 629 Pioneer St., Kalamazoo. Pride. Ferndale Pride, 205 W. Nine Christian. Affirming Love Ministries, Live-LGBT 269-349-4234. Kglrc.org long term illness. Tickets: $85. The Sessions 6 p.m. Darnell Jones, Mile, Ferndale. Ferndalepride.com 9550 Oakland Ave., Detroit. Godmothers, 23650 23 Mile Road, A2 TNG (Next Generation of RPH and GNA, will conduct one on Affirmingloveministries. webs.com Ferndale Pride Planning Meeting Macomb. Thegodmothers.org Kinkster) 7:45 p.m. A kink and fetish one counseling sessions for the 7 p.m. Ferndale Pride, 290 W. Nine Saturday, May 17 Gay Straight Alliance in Berrien Pet Loss Support Group 1 p.m. oriented group for younger kinksters. transgender community. Affirmations, Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. Clean the Ferndale Up! The event Colleen O’Brien, founder of Blue Dog The group focuses on support, the 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. Goaffirmations.org County 2 p.m. LGBTQ youth, friends brings volunteers together to clean, and allies, ages 14-18. OutCenter, 124 Counseling, is an expert at developing sharing of information in the form of 248-398-7105. Goaffirmations.org Pagan Chat Nights 7:30 p.m.come repair and improve public spaces that Water St., Benton Harbor. 269-925- creative therapeutic interventions to demonstrations or discussion groups have been neglected, vandalized or Relationship Skills Class 6 p.m. A socialize with FOCAS members and 8330. Outcenter.org support individuals, couples, families, and socializing. Meets on the third series for LGBTQ people and their other area pagans! Michigan Pagans, misused within Ferndale. We would and other groups with grief. Does not Tuesday of every month. Open to all. like to invite and encourage all X the Line - Peer Educators 2 p.m. friends and loved ones. Topics include: 21700 West Road, Woodhaven. require an RSVP. Humane Society of A2 TNG, 319 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. exploring personal and cultural Meetup.com/michiganpagans groups, businesses and individuals Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Huron Valley, 3100 Cherry Hill Road, 734-678-2478. CuteSubToy@Yahoo. to join us and pitch in to help our Ferndale. 248-398-7105. dsmith@ relationships, values, arguments and Ann Arbor. 734-662-5585. Hshv. com JimToyCenter.org making agreements, accountability Polyamory Network 7:30 p.m. community. Ferndale Community goaffirmations.org Goaffirmations.org convio.net Open and inclusive community of Foundation, Ferndale. 248-871-7783. and building community connections. people living polyamorously, people Cleantheferndaleup.com Tea Party 3 p.m. KICK, 41 Burroughs Monthly Support and Program Tuesday, May 20 Tickets: $5-35. Affirmations, 290 W. interested in polyamory and people St. 109, Detroit. 313-285-9733. Meeting 2 p.m. PFLAG, 306 N. Aff Action Night 6 p.m.educating Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398- of, friendly to and curious about Miles for Smiles 5k Walk Festivities, E-kick.org Division, Ann Arbor. 734-741-0659. others about how to make Michigan 7105. Goaffirmations.org refreshments, entertainment and polyamory. Welcomes diversity of Abba Elton and Oz. Oh My! 7:30 Pflagaa.org an equality state. Pizza provided for Toastmasters International sexual orientation and gender identity. prizes. Rest stations will also be volunteers. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine p.m. Featuring “Elton” tribute artist, A Masquerade Ball: Affirmations’ SpeakOUT! Club 7 p.m. Toastmasters Meets the third Thursday of every located in various spots along Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. John Sheffield. Detroit Together Mens Youth Prom 2014 4 p.m. Affirmations, will show you how to listen more month. Polyamory Network, 319 the walk. To benefit Lansing Area goaffirmations.org Community Services. Lansing’s Capital Chorus (DTMC), 415 S. Lafayette Ave., 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. effectively, think on your feet and Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-995-9867. Royal Oak. 248-544-3872. Dtmc.org 248-398-7105. Goaffirmations.org Because We Are Worth It (Sex speak confidently Jim Toy Community jimtoycenter.org Area Community Services, Lansing. Cacsheadstart.org/Help-Out/Miles- Addicts Anonymous LGBTQ Center, 319 Braun Court, Ann Arbor. LGBT Night Out 7:30 p.m. The Bisexual Peer Group 4 p.m. 734-995-9867. Jimtoycenter.org for-Smiles evening will include a free drink Meeting) 6:30 p.m. Jim Toy Friday, May 16 Our group meets monthly on the Community Center, 319 Braun Project Healthy Living Community- (plus cash bar), social networking, third Friday & discussion relates Whole Lives, Healthy Lives Adult Equality Leadership Colloquium a pre-show talk with our Artistic Court, Ann Arbor. 734-995-9867. wide health screenings. Project to bisexual identity. Building is jimtoycenter.org 1 a.m. Learn. Discuss. Connect. Director, Patricia Barker, a world See Happenings, page 22

20 BTL | May 15, 2014 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com May 15, 2014 | BTL 21 Keith) against a band of bloodthirsty Through May 17. 269-343-1313. www. thewhiting.com ® guerrillas when his plane crashes kazoocivic.com Happenings near a remote South American island. Old Love $20-25. Williamston Theatre, Continued from p. 24 Led by a madman mercenary (David Professional 122 S. Putnam Road, Williamston. May Millbern), the rogue unit kidnaps the 15 - June 15. 517-655-SHOW. www. veep, and it’s up to Delaney and a A Steady Rain $10-20. Planet Ant williamstontheatre.org 7 p.m. This one-of- Theatre, 2357 Caniff, Hamtramck. Support Group beautiful press secretary (Jill Bennett) Old Wicked Songs $27-29. Farmers a-kind program in Berrien County to save his life Affirmations, 290 W. Through May 24. 313-365-4948. www. planetant.com Alley Theatre, 221 Farmers Alley, helps attendees support each other in Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398- Kalamazoo. Through May 18. 269-343- healthy ways through active listening 7105. Goaffirmations.org/ Amy Seeley & The Moline Madman 2727. www.farmersalleytheatre.com and caring feedback. OutCenter, 132 $25. The Acorn Theater, 107 Generations Water St., Benton Harbor. 269-925- Official Movement Pre-Party Other Desert Cities $41-48. The Lansing 9 p.m. With special guest Dr., Three Oaks. 8 p.m. May 23. 269- 8330. Outcenter.org 756-3879. www.acorntheater.com Jewish Ensemble Theatre Company at DJ Minx. Spiral-DanceBar, 1247 Aaron DeRoy Theatre on the campus Drag Queen Bingo Un-Leashed 8 Center St., Lansing. 517-894-1315. Barefoot in the Park $20. The Snug of the Jewish Community Center, 6600 p.m. “No Holds Barred” Thursday Spiraldancebar.com Theatre, 160 S. Water St., Marine City. W. Maple Road., West Bloomfield. edition!18+. Tickets: $20. Five15, 515 Drag Queen Bingo 10 p.m. A fun Through May 18. 810-278-1749. www. Through May 18. 248-788-2900. www. S. Washington Ave., Royal Oak. 248- thesnugtheatre.com jettheatre.org 515-2551. Five15.net alternative to your usual weekend hot spots. Shows get out just early enough Bloom $12-16. Flint Youth Theatre, Rhinoceros By donation. The Abreact, Friday, May 23 for you to hit the local clubs or bars! 1220 E. Kearsley St., Flint. Through 1301 W. Lafayette #113, Detroit. Refreshments from our full coffee May 25. 810-237-1530. www. Through May 31. 313-454-1542. www. SCA Farmer’s Market 9 a.m. Those bar (coffees, teas, smoothies), sodas, flintyouththeatre.org theabreact.com wishing to sell fresh fruits, vegetables, water, and more. Tickets: $20. 18+. meats, and eggs, including baked goods, Five15, 515 S. Washington Ave., Royal Brother of All $17-20. Detroit Richard III $27-46. Performance cheeses, honey products, flowers, and Oak. 248-515-2551. Five15.net Repertory Theatre, 13103 Woodrow Network Theatre, 120 E. Huron St., Ann related food products made regionally Wilson, Detroit. Through May 18. 313- Arbor. Through June 1. 734-663-0681. or by the vendor should apply. A limited 868-1347. www.detroitreptheatre.com www.performancenetwork.org number of hand-crafted items can be included; goods that relate to the THEATER Circo Comedia $10-20. Music Hall for Sundays at Go Comedy! Pay-what-you- serving or enjoyment of food products Civic/Community Theater the Performing Arts, 350 Madison Ave., can at the door. Go Comedy! Improv will be given priority consideration in Detroit. 4 p.m. May 18. 313-887-8500. Theater, 261 E. Nine Mile Rd., Ferndale. this category. Saugatuck Center for the Annie Get Your Gun $18-24. The www.musichall.org 248-327-0575. www.gocomedy.net Kalamazoo Civic Theatre at Civic Arts, 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. 269- ComedySportz Michigan Actors Studio, The Andrews Brothers $25-40. 857-2399. sc4a.org Auditorium, 329 S. Park St., Kalamazoo. Through May 18. 269-343-1313. www. 648 E. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 877- Meadow Brook Theatre, 2200 N. Squirrel Open Mic Night with Michelle Brown kazoocivic.com 636-3320. www.comedysportzdetroit. Road, Rochester. Through May 18. 248- 6 p.m. Whether it’s poetry, singing com 370-2030. www.mbtheatre.com or anything in between, this is your Clybourne Park $10-15. Peppermint Creek Theatre at Miller Performing Arts Crossing 8 Mile $16-24. Mosaic The Four Disgracers $15-25. opportunity to express yourself on Youth Theatre at Detroit Film Theatre Ixion, REO Town’s Art Alley, 1133 S. stage. All ages welcome. Affirmations, Center, 6025 Curry Lane, South Lansing. May 15 - 24. www.peppermintcreek.org inside the Detroit Institute of Arts, 2100 Washington, Lansing. May 15 - 24. 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. Woodward Ave., Detroit. Through May www.ixiontheatre.com 248-398-7105. Goaffirmations.org Fairytale Family Vacation $5 kids, 18. 313-833-7900. www.mosaicdetroit. The PRTC Spring Comedy Festival: Zumba Fitness Party with the $8 adults. Ann Arbor Civic Theatre at org Washtenaw Community College Theatre, Lovers, Liars & Lunatics $18.50-42. Detroit Z All Stars! 6 p.m. All ages Defending the Caveman $38. City The Purple Rose Theatre Company, 137 and abilities are welcome. No dance 4800 E. Huron River Dr, Ann Arbor. May 15 - 18. 734-971-2228. www.a2ct.org Theatre, 2301 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Park St., Chelsea. Through May 24. 734- 433-7673. www.purplerosetheatre.org Thursdays at Go Comedy! Go Comedy! Improv Theater, 261 E. Nine Mile Rd., Ferndale. 248-327-0575. Editor’s Pick www.gocomedy.net To Kill a Mockingbird $20. What A Concert season continues as Detroit Together Do Theatre, 4071 W. Dickman Road, Springfield. Through May 17. 269-282- Mens Chorus (DTMC) presents their spring 1953. www.whatado.org offering, “Abba, Elton and Oz… Oh My!” Turandot $25-125. Michigan Opera Brian Londrow serves as the show’s artistic Theatre at Detroit Opera House, 1526 Broadway St., Detroit. Through May 18. director. John Sheffield, “Elton John” tribute 313-237-SING. www.michiganopera.org artist, will be featured. Turtle Island $5 children, $10 adults. DTMC is a non-profit, all-male chorus PuppetART at Detroit Puppet Theater, 25 E. Grand River Ave., Detroit. Through May 18. based out of Ferndale. Since 1982, the gay and gay-supportive chorus has served the 313-961-7777. www.puppetart.org Southeastern Michigan community with song and support. Other fundraisers and concerts Wednesdays at Go Comedy! Go are hosted by DTMC throughout the year. Comedy! Improv Theater, 261 E. Nine Mile Rd., Ferndale. 248-327-0575. DTMC’s “Abba, Elton and Oz… Oh My!” begins at 7:30 p.m. this Saturday, May 17 at The www.gocomedy.net Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. Lafayette Ave., Royal Oak. Tickets are $15-25. Call 248-544-3872 West Side Story $36-76. Fisher or visit www.dtmc.org for more details. Theatre, 3011 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit. Through May 18. 313-872-1000. www. Ticketmaster.com

or fitness experience necessary. Les Miserables $15-35. The Croswell, May 15 - 25. 313-471-6611. www. Now accepting vendors!Tickets: 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian. Through May olympiaentertainment.com MUSIC & MORE $10-15. Detroit Zumba All Stars, 2934 18. 517-264-SHOW. www.croswell.org Russell St., Detroit. 313-587-6203. Emma $10. Matrix Theatre Company, Comedy [email protected] Nunsense The Mega-Musical 2730 Bagley, Detroit. May 16 - May 18. Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase Dzas2014.eventbrite.com Version $13-36. Starlight Dinner 313-967-0999. www.matrixtheatre.org “Comedy Jamm” It’s cut-loose comedy Theatre at Waverly East Cafetorium, as we present the comedy of 12 of the Friday Night Socials at the AFF 7 3131 W. Michigan Ave., Lansing. Improv Mondays $5 at the door. Planet current rising stars in the Detroit Metro p.m. Join us every Friday 7pm- Through May 17. 517-243-6040. www. Ant Theatre, 2357 Caniff, Hamtramck. area and beyond. Tickets: $5. Ann Arbor 9pm. Euchre-First & Third Fridays. starlightdinnertheatre.com 313-365-4948. www.planetant.com Comedy Showcase, 314 E. Liberty St., Open Mic-Second & Fourth Fridays. Ann Arbor. Aug. 8 - Sep. 25. 734-996- Rumors $14-16. Farmington Players, Into the Woods $10-25. The Ringwald Hosted by Michelle Brown. Everyone Theatre, 22742 Woodward Ave., 9080. Aacomedy.com Welcome! Food & Drink available. 32332 W. 12 Mile Road, Farmington Hills. Through May 17. 248-553-2955. Ferndale. Through June 2. 248-545- Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase “Jef The AFF Store & More, 290 W Nine 5545. www.theringwald.com Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. www.farmingtonplayers.org Brannan” Tickets: $10-12. Ann Arbor [email protected] GoAffirmations.org Comedy Showcase, 314 E. Liberty St., Telling Lives $10-12. Riverwalk Mike Super: Magic & Illusion $13-27. Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 Ann Arbor. May 16 - May 17. 734-996- Womyn’s Film Night 7 p.m. Film: In Theatre, 228 Museum Dr., Lansing. 9080. Aacomedy.com Through May 18. 517-482-5700. www. Culver St., Saugatuck. 4 p.m. May 18. Her Line of Fire - Mariel Hemingway 269-857-2399. www.Sc4a.org stars in this action thriller as Sgt. riverwalktheatre.com Maj. Lynn Delaney, a Secret Service Concerts The Magical Adventures of Merlin $7. Mike Super: Magic & Illusion $19-34. agent charged with protecting the Cathedral Church of St. Paul Kalamazoo Civic Youth Theatre at Parish The Whiting, 1241 E. Kearsley St., Flint. U. S. vice president (played by David “Spring Choral Concert and Ice Cream Theatre, 426 S. Park St., Kalamazoo. 7:30 p.m. May 17. 810-237-8689. www.

22 BTL | May 15, 2014 www.PrideSource.com Liberal Arts Gallery “Roberto Valentin” Guest artists: Jack Kenny and Charlene Editor’s Pick Uresy. Liberal Arts Gallery, 3361 Gratiot, Peppermint Creek Theatre Company announces Detroit. May 2 - May 17. 734-395-1265. the two-week run of “Clybourne Park,” a Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum “The President’s Photographer: humorous and insightful new play by Pulitzer Fifty Years Inside the Oval Office” The Prize-winning playwright Bruce Norris. exhibition features 50 framed images and a text panel with brief biographical The production takes its title from the white information on each photographer. Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture neighborhood mentioned in Lorraine Hansberry’s Museum, 7400 Bay Road, University groundbreaking 1959 drama “A Raisin in the Sun,” Center. Feb. 3 - May 24. 989-964-7125. about an African-American family busting the color Marshallfredericks.org/presidents barrier in a white Chicago suburb. The sole white character of “Raisin,” Karl Lindner, has been lifted MOCAD “Dara Friedman: Projecting”. Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit, from Hansberry’s play. Here, he’s trying to convince white neighbors not to sell their home to a black 4454 Woodward Ave., Detroit. May 16 - family. The play portrays fictional events set before and after the Hansberry play and is loosely based July 27. 313-832-6622. Mocadetroit.org on historical events that took place in the city of Chicago. MOCAD “Mobile Homestead” A permanent art work by the late Mike The production will take place at Miller Performing Arts Center, 6025 Curry Lane, Lansing. The show Kelley. Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit, 4454 Woodward Ave., Detroit. will run May 15-18 and May 22-24. Tickets ($10-15) can be ordered online at Jan. 1 - June 30. 313-832-6622. www.peppermintcreek.org. Mocadetroit.org Museum of New Art (MONA) Social” Hear the Choir in a program of May 21. 313-833-9700. Majesticdetroit. Ave., Detroit. April 18 - May 23. 313- “Rendering Carbon: The Art of Exploring music that they will sing during their com 832-8540. Detroitartistsmarket.org an Element” A talk with Ian Boyden residency in England this summer. scheduled for 3 p.m. on May 18. Cathedral Church of St. Paul, 4800 Woodside Church “Monthly Jazz Detroit Institute of Arts “Samurai: Museum of New Art (MONA), 15655 33 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 7 p.m. May Vespers” Alternative worship service Beyond the Sword” The exhibition looks Mile Road, Armada. May 16 - June 20. 17. 313-833-7547. Facebook.com/ featuring local musicians from Flint and at how Japan’s legendary warrior class 248-210-7560. Detroitmona.com detroitcathedralmusic surrounding area. Presented in coffee sought balance between military and house setting; refreshments will be cultural pursuits. Tickets: $8-16. Detroit Pewabic Pottery “Feed Your Soul” Kerrytown Concert House “Jesse served. Woodside Church, 1509 E. Court Institute of Arts, 2100 Woodward Ave., Ticket: $35. Arab American National Blumberg and Martin Katz” Winterreise. St., Flint. Sep. 20 - May 16. 810-767- Detroit. March 9 - June 1. 313-833- Museum, 13624 Michigan Ave., Tickets: $5-35. Kerrytown Concert 4911. woodsidechurch.net 7900. Dia.org Dearborn. 1 p.m. May 17. 313-582- House, 415 N. Fourth Ave., Ann Arbor. 2266. Arabamericanmuseum.org Downriver Council for the Arts 8 p.m. May 17. 734-763-4186. Other Saugatuck Center for the Arts “Material Kerrytownconcerthouse.com “Adult Oil & Acrylics Class” Tickets: Goodman Acker “Community Law $10. Downriver Council for the Arts, 81 Girls: Fiber Exhibition” Quilts by Judith MOCAD “Art + Science” Benefiting Day”. Goodman Acker P. C., 17000 Chestnut, Wyandotte. Jan. 7 - June 24. Jarzembowski. Rugs by Judy Bowman the life-saving science of the A. Alfred W. 10 Mile Road, Southfield. 10 a.m. 734-720-0671. Downriverarts.org Anthrop. Saugatuck Center for the Arts, Taubman Medical Research Institute at May 18. Goodmanacker.com/our-firm/ 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. April 11 - June U of M. Museum of Contemporary Art community-involvement/community- Downriver Council for the Arts “Adult 6. 269-857-2399. Sc4a.org Pastels Class” Tickets: $20. Downriver Detroit, 4454 Woodward Ave., Detroit. May law-day-2014/ The N’Namdi Center for 22. 313-832-6622. Mocadetroit.org Council for the Arts, 81 Chestnut, MOCAD “Opening Night: 2014 MOCAD Wyandotte. Jan. 4 - June 28. 734-720- Contemporary Art “Do The Yale Thing: The Acorn Theater “Cathy Richardson Summer Exhibitions” Tickets: $0-7. 0671. Downriverarts.org An Exhibition of Exceptional Artwork Band”. The Acorn Theater, 107 Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit, by Recent Yale MFA Graduates”. The Generations Dr., Three Oaks. 8 p.m. May 4454 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 6 p.m. Downriver Council for the Arts “Adult N’Namdi Center for Contemporary Art, 17. 269-756-3879. Acorntheater.com May 16. 313-832-6622. Mocadetroit.org Acrylic Class” Facilitated by Ken Barbb. 52 E. Forest Ave., Detroit. Jan. 24 - May Drop-In. Open to beginners to advanced. 21. 313-831-8700. Nnamdicenter.org The Ark “Hayes Caril” Tickets: $20. The Saugatuck Center for the Arts “Fatal Students bring own supplies. Admission: Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. Crossing: The Mysterious Disappearance $15. Downriver Council for the Arts, 81 University Of Michigan Museum Of May 21. 734-761-1800. Theark.org of NWA Flight 2501 and the Quest for Chestnut, Wyandotte. Aug. 3 - June 28. Art (UMMA) “An Eye on the Empire: Answers” Free. Saugatuck Center for 734-720-0671. Downriverarts.org Photographs of Colonial India and Egypt” The Ark “Lipbone Redding” Tickets: $15. the Arts, 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. 7 The zenith of the British Empire in the The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. p.m. May 15. 269-857-2399. Sc4a.org Flint Institute of Arts “Kathleen Gilje: later nineteenth century coincided May 20. 734-761-1800. Theark.org Portraits of Paintings” Meticulously with a unique convergence of cultural, rendered new incarnations of old technological, and economic forces. The Ark “Martin Hayes & Dennis masterpieces. Flint Institute of Arts, University Of Michigan Museum Of Art, Cahill” Tickets: $20. The Ark, 316 S. ART ‘N’ AROUND 1120 E. Kearsley St., Flint. May 2 - July 525 S. State St., Ann Arbor. April 1 - June Main St., Ann Arbor. 7:30 p.m. May 18. Cranbrook Art Museum “Saarinen 20. 810-234-1695. Flintarts.org 29. 734-763-4186. Umma.umich.edu 734-761-1800. Theark.org House: A Total Work of Art” Designed in James Pearson Duffy Department University Of Michigan Museum The Community Chorus of Detroit the late 1920s, the house served as the of Art and Art History “scope: 2014 Of Art (UMMA) “Three Michigan (CCD) “Requiem” Tickets: $35- home and studio of Eliel Saarinen and Wayne State University Undergraduate Architects: Part 2 - Robert Metcalf” 40. Cathedral of the Most Blessed Loja Saarinen from 1930 through 1950. Exhibition” Features a wide range of Robert Metcalf’s domestic and Sacrament, 9844 Woodward Cranbrook Art Museum, 39221 Woodward approaches from which students derive commercial buildings represent some Ave., Detroit. 4:30 p.m. May 18. Ave., Bloomfield Hills. May 1 - Oct. 31. their inspiration, ideas, and creations. of the most important and recognizable communitychorusofdetroit.com 877-462-7262. Cranbrookart.edu Art Department Gallery, 150 Art modern architecture in Michigan. The Majestic “Two Cow Garage” All Detroit Artists Market (DAM) and CCS Building, 5400 Gullen Mall, Detroit. April University Of Michigan Museum Of Art, ages. Tickets: $8-10. The Magic Stick, “Biannual All Media Exhibition 2014”. 18 - May 16. 313-577-2423. 525 S. State St., Ann Arbor. April 1 - July 4120 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 8 p.m. Detroit Artists Market, 4719 Woodward 13. 734-763-4186. Umma.umich.edu

www.PrideSource.com May 15, 2014 | BTL 23 To place a classified ad with us, visit pridesource.com/classifieds Classifieds or call us at 734-293-7200 x15 01-ANNOUNCEMNTS 304 EMPLOYMENT - LGBT AA MEETINGS MEDICAL

Ann Arbor-Friday Matrix Human Services Say Hi To Matrix Human Services has an 7:30 pm, St. Andrews Episcopal employment opportunity for an Church Gay AA, 306 N. Division individual who is passionate and St. Closed/Discussion. committed to working in HIV/AIDS. Bucky! We’re looking for a motivated self- Bloomfield Hills-Sunday starter who can work with newly / Tuesday / Thursday diagnosed men and women in the Detroit Metropolitan area and assist 8:00 pm, North Woodward them in getting into care service. Equality, Birmingham Unitarian This individual will also work with Church, 38651 Woodward, people who know their HIV status Bloomfield Hills, lower level who may have lost their connection classroom - enter first walkway off to medical services by assisting Woodward entrance. Big Book/12 them in re-engaging in care. Salary Say Hi to Bucky! This 1-year-old Australian Cattle dog mix is a & 12 Meeting. in based on experience, benefits include medical, dental, vision, fun little guy. He loves to be around people and is generous Detroit-Tuesday / Friday 401k, and life insurance. Come help about giving out puppy kisses! The adoption fee includes us make a positive difference in our 8:00 pm, Downtown Gay AA, Fort community. Please forward resumes sterilization, age-appropriate vaccinations, the MHS Adoption Street Presbyterian Church, 631 by email to [email protected] or Guarantee and much more. For more information, please visit West Fort St. Closed/Discussion fax at 313-831-9139. (Open 1st Friday of every month). or call the MHS Berman Center for Animal Care in Westland at (734) Farmington Hills-Monday 721-7300 and provide the pet ID 8:00 pm, Suburban West Gay 320 EMPLOYMENT - AA, Universalist Unitarian Church, number, 778309. 25301 Halstead (Between 10 & 11 WANTED Mile Roads) Closed / Discussion. Ferndale-Monday / Jobs at Pride Events Pride Source Media Group is seeking Wednesday / Friday energetic people to work booths at Michigan’s pride celebrations. 11:30 a.m., Brown Baggers Gay Duties include booth setup (with AA, Affirmations, 290 West 9 Mile help), staffing the booth and being Rd. Closed/Discussion. outgoing and friendly, collecting Ferndale-Saturday signatures and asking people to complete a politically oriented 1 p.m. Brown Baggers Gay AA, survey, tear down of the booth (with Affirmations, 290 West 9 Mile Rd. help). Must be physically able to Closed/Discussion. stand for several hours outdoors. We seek people for Ferndale, Motor 8 p.m. Go After Your Sobriety City Pride, Kalamazoo, Grand Gay AA, Drayton Ave Presbyterian Rapids, Saginaw, Flint and Battle Church, 2441 Pinecrest. Closed/ Creek Prides. Applicants must be Discussion. able to do at least two of these events Livonia-Friday (or both days of Motor City Pride). To apply send a resume to jan@ 8 p.m., West Side Story’s Gay AA, pridesource.com by no later than Providence Medical Center, 7 Mile May 23. No calls please. Pay rate & Newburgh. Closed/Discussion. is $10 per hour. Warren-Monday 428 PROF. SERVICES - 7:30 p.m., Eastside Serenity Gay AA, Odd Fellow’s Hall, 830 S MASSAGE Monroe St Closed/Discussion. GROUP MASSAGE 101-ANNOUNCEMNTS - For Gay and Bisexual Men. Learn some massage techniques LGBT AL ANON and meet others in a safe and caring environment. Tuesdays and Diversity Wednesday Al- Saturdays at 8 p.m. Thursdays Anon Family Group at 2 p.m. $10 per session. 209 West Kingsley in downtown Ann Wednesday 8pm Arbor. (734) 662-6282 or email St. Luke’s Parrish Hall (in [email protected]. http://www. basement) trymassage.com Solution to puzzle from page 26 Lewiston & Livernois, Ferndale MI Closed Meeting Go After Your Serenity (G.A.Y.S.) Al-Anon Family Group

Saturday’s 8pm Drayton Ave. Presbyterian Church (in basement) Pinecrest & Drayton, Ferndale Closed Meeting

24 BTL | May 15, 2014 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com May 15, 2014 | BTL 25 53 End of the quote 23 Lover with a penetrating Chaz I Was Saying Across glance? 57 Out and then some 1 Tutti-frutti ingredient 58 David Hyde ___ 24 Org. that uses ball-washers 5 Lammies, e.g. 59 Brisk pace 28 La mer, to Debussy 11 Peggy of Split Bitches 61 Minstrel’s instrument 29 Letter enc. 15 River of Memphis 62 Patty Sheehan’s position 30 Gershwin and Levin 16 Woman of La Mancha 63 Sightseeing journey 32 “South Park” composer 17 Look intently 64 Vehicle for a snow queen? Shaiman 18 Start to climax 65 Response of privates 33 Debussy contemporary Satie 19 You wear it with a thong 66 Out of whack, off, etc. 35 Julius Caesar suffered from it down low 36 Talk like Gomer 20 Movie about a CIA rescue 37 Mauresmo’s court divider mission Down 38 What a bush that needs 21 Start of a Chaz Bono quote 1 Writer Castillo trimming may do 24 For each one 2 Ho w Rogers walked in “The 39 Become buttermilk 25 Porn-watcher’s comment? Gay Divorcee”? 42 Tricky turn 26 “Notes on Camp” author 3 Clark Kent, to Superman 43 Conspiracies that require Susan 4 Jockey strap? balls? 27 Areas around holes 5 Take stock of 44 Beneficial 29 Homer’s fam 6 “___ Family” 45 Heirs split it 31 Uninvited pool guests? 7 Lennox, once of the 46 Got angry 32 Ben Stiller’s mother Anne Eurythmics 47 Butch lesbian’s fashion 34 More of the quote 8 Members at a sex club? accessory 40 Sticks one’s proboscis in 9 Military color 48 Life’s work 41 Stage show 10 Pitching pro 50 Woes of toes 43 Pool tool 11 Gives rise to 51 Soap star Susan 48 Feeds a crowd 12 ___ stay (like a long-term 54 “Nick at ___ “ 49 Lash out at partner) 55 Oral votes 50 What you may do to your 13 Mediterranean arm 56 Jazz singer James lover’s back 14 Unjust acts 60 Take a crack at 52 Workers under Dr. Torres 22 Kevin Bacon movie of the ‘80s Solution on pg. 24

26 BTL | May 15, 2014 www.PrideSource.com