The Tegan and It’s February; love’s Sara Interview “in the air, and apparently everyone is high on the Predictions of HIV Valentine’s Day Kool-Aid. Prevalence Staggering – Michelle E. Brown”

Push For Marriage Reform Begins In Michigan

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2 BTL | February 14, 2013 www.PrideSource.com COVER STORY 4 A Call To Action I won’t deny that there

The Tegan and It’s February; love’s in“ the air, and apparently Sara Interview everyone is high on the have been times in the last HIV Valentine’s Day Kool-Aid. Predictions of – Michelle E. Brown” Prevalence Staggering

Push For Marriage 12 years that I wish we Reform Begins In Michigan never said we were gay.

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Providing Content and Community to LGBT Media Contributing Photographers made by our advertisers, nor can we accept responsibility for Sign up online to receive our E–Digest Andrew Potter materials provided by advertisers or their agents. Copyright 2013 Pride Source Media Group, LLC www.PrideSource.com February 14, 2013 | BTL 3 Youth Rising: The Push For Marriage 2014

BY CRYSTAL PROXMIRE example, if there were to be two petitions and someone signed them both, there is a Change is bubbling up in Michigan’s possibility that neither signature would count LGBT community, with people who weren’t At the end of the election we saw progress. Myself and if challenged. even old enough to vote when Proposition 2 Kaplan said that if a ballot initiative comes imbedded marriage inequality into the State a few of my friends said ‘why can’t we do this here?’ forward and does not pass, that it won’t stop Constitution, now taking up the task of trying “ people from trying again in 2016. “But people to get that amendment removed, perhaps as could be confused, and that confusion could early as 2014. -Andrea Ernst, MiLove remain.” Pockets of activism not currently associated ” Another concern is that if it doesn’t pass, with any of the established LGBT agencies has it could create another hurdle to public people riled up, some wondering what it will larger organizations and listservs, and doing to push it in 2016. They want to focus on acceptance in the state. “Opponents would take to move forward on the marriage issue in a lot of email and social media,” Ernst said. advocacy, but they’re advocating to people argue that if it failed they will say its proof the state, while others contend that 2016 is a She explained that having tables at pride who won’t listen to you. The representatives society isn’t ready. If it fails you could try more realistic timeframe for this battle. events and on campuses during welcome aren’t representing us. The only way to do it again, but voters can get confused.” The perspectives vary among interested weeks will be a big part of their efforts, is to take it to the people. We’re going to put Kaplan added that some are holding off parties, but the passion is the same. With a and they hope that statewide and national it on the ballot and make it happen.” on any efforts until later in the year when the quickly changing national and pop culture organizations will get on board to help them What makes the Marriage Michigan U.S. Supreme Court makes their ruling on the acceptance of LGBT relationships and the with fundraising and support from older approach different Surfus said, is that they California Prop. 8 case. One possible outcome inexpensive and easy mobilization that comes voters. will appeal to all political persuasions. is that the Court could chose to invalidate all from internet resources, it is simply a whole So far they have found an ally in PFLAG, “It’s not a Republican or Democrat issue. state laws that oppose the right of same-sex new world for activism. How the parties who has helped spread the word through their There’s rising support in conservatives. couples to marry, in which case no ballot come together, and how the energy of the email lists. “We started there because it’s a We’re going to take a tax and government measure would be necessary. youth movements will coalesce are currently well-known organization with many chapters,” non-intervention approach. We’ll make it working themselves out. Those who are Ernst said. A recent email blast helped them clear we’re only changing civil marriage, not ready to fight are finding a place at the table, increase the likes on their Facebook page to religious marriage. We’ll include religious and those who want to wait are sticking to over 1,000. protection language and do a lot of faith-based their research. But ready or not the youth of They’ve contacted other organizations outreach.” Michigan are revved up and ready to go. through the state, and will be meeting Surfus is a student at Grand Valley State with leaders from Unity Michigan and the working towards a masters degree in public Community Center Network next week to administration, and members of the board MiLove – Ann Arbor discuss a broader plan. “I’m very eager to are fellow students. Their goal is to raise $2 Andrea Ernst of Ann Arbor is at the forefront learn,” Ernst said. “I’ve never done a campaign million to hire a firm to get the signatures of the youth marriage equality movement. before. I’ve always wanted to be part of LGBT they need and to use social media to help She and her friends have formed MiLove, advocacy, but this is the first thing that has them recruit 2,000 volunteers throughout the a group that has officially registered as a fallen in my lap.” state. Surfus also founded TEAM – Tolerance Equality Awareness Movement, and has Ballot Question Committee with the state of MiLove can be found on Facebook at www. spoken to school districts about bullying Michigan. Their goal is simple; collect enough facebook.com/MiLove2014. signatures to put a repeal of Prop. 2 on the policies as well as other equality-promoting Attorney Jay Kaplan, ballot for Nov. 2014. events. Michgan ACLU LGBT Project Inspired by the victories in other states, Marriage Michigan – Grand Rapids Find out more about Marriage Michigan at www. MiLove wants to put the issue to a popular A seven-member board in Grand Rapids facebook.com/MarriageMI. vote in Michigan. is also taking on same-sex marriage from What About The Politics? “If we’re successful then it’ll open the door the grassroots up. Marriage Michigan The Director of Policy at Equality Michigan, to so many LBGT rights,” Ernst said. “At the is attempting to form a Political Action The Legal Perspective On Emily Dievendorf, is set on waiting until end of the election we saw progress. Myself Committee and plans on putting language Michigan’s Marriage Fight 2016. “The next two years our focus is on and a few of my friends said ‘why can’t we on the ballot to not only remove Prop. 2’s public education and polling,” Dievendorf do this here?’ We researched other agencies language from the constitution, but the new Attorney Jay Kaplan of the Michigan said. “We’ve had conversations with national and couldn’t come up with people who were ballot language would include legalization of ACLU has seen the damage done by the organizations and political consultants who actually working on marriage equality around same-sex marriage. 2004 Prop. 2 passage, and is familiar with the support our first amending Elliott Larsen (the the state, so why not us?” “We anticipate there’s not going to be too legal struggles that could come from trying to state’s nondiscrimination legislation). We The friends learned that they would need much opposition,” said co-founder Chris have it repealed. He noted that in Michigan, still need to be doing public education. We’re over 300,000 valid signatures, but that they’d Surfus, citing a study that says 56 percent Prop. 2 takes so much off the table for LGBT not going to get the excitement or funding have to collect double that to protect against of Michiganders favor marriage equality. people because of the way the amendment is necessary to get people to the polls unless a the invalid ones. And while they know that “The reason 2014 is best is that there is a lot worded to not recognize same-sex couples great number of Michigan citizens know what money is an issue, they believe in the power of political outrage in Michigan and a more for any reason. we lack.” of social media and grassroots organizing progressive demographic. They say voter “I applaud people who are willing to She pointed out that in Michigan people can to overcome some of the things that made turnout is not as big if it’s not a presidential explore this,” Kaplan said. “It’s going to take still be legally fired for being LGBT. They can communication difficult in past election election, but there will be a lot of backlash a great deal of financial resources and people be discriminated against. They cannot have efforts. in 2014.” resources.” second parent adoptions. And there are no hate “We’re focusing on colleges campuses. The Some have suggested that 2016 would be He said that the risk of having multiple crimes laws to protect them. Her thought is that young people will be important to the cause. a more practical target date, but Surfus is not groups bringing forward petitions is that these issues need to be addressed before the We’re reaching out to LGBT groups and convinced. “We are absolutely set in getting people opposed to same-sex marriage are likely general public will support marriage equality. hoping they will help. We’re trying to tap into this done in 2014. Equality Michigan wants to try all they can to invalidate signatures. For In states that have achieved marriage equality

4 BTL | February 14, 2013 www.PrideSource.com David Garcia, Affirmations and Michelle Brown, Co-Chair Emily Dievendorf, Equality Michigan Community Center Network 2004 Marriage Campaign other protective policies were already in help we can get. This is an incredibly know if 2014 is feasible or not, but I place for the LGBT communities. expensive effort and we intend to ensure do know that whether we fight this in Equality Michigan is planning a it is a sound investment for supporters. 2014 or 2016 we will need everyone at state-wide tour to educate people about We also don’t need to reinvent the wheel. the table.” how LGBT folks are treated unfairly. This has been tested in other states. We “What does not make sense is to have Dievendorf said she has not met with the are looking at tested approaches and a small group doing something on their newer regional groups yet, but instead learning from successes and failures own – we’re not going to win unless we hopes that people will be patient. “Allow experienced by similar states. We can do it together. We will need progressive us a chance to engage them in a statewide do this right the first time, but only churches, university coalitions, labor, strategy,” she said. “Islands never win. It realistically and together.” and LGBT leadership working together. We need to reach out to all age groups. We can win, but we have to play smart.” Garcia volunteered on the 2004 campaign and remembers the struggles the group faced, but he also remembers I don’t know if 2014 is feasible or not, but I what it was like to be fired and willing do know that whether we fight this in 2014 or 2016 to go the distance for the cause. He once “ walked from Swartz Creek to Lansing we will need everyone at the table. in protest of being forced out of his job for standing up for gay rights. “You can’t ignore this kind of passion and - Dave Garcia, Affirmations & Community Center Network it’s exactly what we need. All the CCN ” partners are here to help.” needs to be a smart collaborative effort.” She explained that Equality Michigan The Grassroots It’s Not The Same As 2004 is doing research and putting together a Involvement In 2004 Michigan was hit with a plan to lead the way to a 2016 victory. In ballot proposal that enshrined marriage Dave Garcia, executive director the meantime she said those who feel like inequality into the state’s constitution. of Affirmations Community Center being involved should spend their time Heavily funded efforts were launched located in Ferndale, which is part of the doing lobbying of their elected officials in 13 states that year, and the LGBT Community Center Network (CCN), in support of amending Elliott Larsen. community was caught off guard and is serving as one of a handful of point Dievendorf is hopeful that legislators’ under attack. Michelle Brown was one persons for much of the organizing that is minds can be changed with sharing who stepped up to lead the defense in happening statewide. While he’s excited stories and public pressure. the state. While voters passed Prop 2 by the groups who are coming together, “What I’ve learned is to make it a by 59 percent, Brown is careful not he’s concerned about the efforts being point not to assume that a legislator has to characterize the efforts of the gay disconnected from one another. no interest. It’s a very small minority, community as a “failure.” “I don’t want to throw water on in either party, that don’t favor fairness. “There are people who are cautious anybody’s enthusiasm and effort. We all What they need to hear is that it’s now, who say that we failed before and want to repeal the marriage amendment. important to the people they represent. fear we may fail again. But we didn’t We all want the same thing, and we have They need a reason to vote in our favor… fail. It gave us an opportunity to talk to be smart about it. One of the biggest Our leaders only feel accountable to about these things. We had conversations challenges in 2004 is we didn’t have our needs if they hear from us,” said with people who knew nothing about the enough people working together and Dievendorf. community. It forced us to get people out on the same page. We need to better She noted that, “all the Unity of their sandboxes and work together. It understand where key leadership is, and Michigan partners are moving forward was hard, but we did it. We didn’t back how we can bring more people together.” toward repealing the constitutional down and we made progress. A lot of The Community Center Network, amendment without leaving Elliott people came out as activists because along with Unity Michigan partners, Larsen behind. Equality Michigan is of Prop. 2 and those people are still out has reached out to the groups in Grand doing the homework with national working today. Rapids and Ann Arbor and scheduled a organizations to make sure we have a “We gained visibility and put a face strong and sustainable plan. After the breakfast with them and leaders from around the state on Feb. 16. “I don’t planning, we absolutely will need all the See Marriage, page 7 www.PrideSource.com February 14, 2013 | BTL 5 Overview: Upcoming Supreme Court Same-Sex Marriage Cases BY CRYSTAL A. PROXMIRE two same-sex marriage cases this year. Each one Should the Supreme Court care? addresses a different, but important facet of the What will Supreme Court rulings At the Ferndale Public Library, attorney In 1967 the Supreme Court ruled that states could marriage issue. The first addresses the Proposition 8 mean? Lisa Schmidt donates her time to do not prohibit interracial marriage, with their decision case in California and the second addresses a case There are several ways that the Court can rule. community education classes about a variety in the case of Loving v. Virginia. Some wonder why where a couple was married in Canada and had a They can rule in a very limited way, making the of legal issues. Most recently she tackled the a similar case could not break down the state-level civil union in New York, but when one partner died determination for just the specific cases. Or they barrier for same-sex couples. the other was left with a $363,053 inheritance tax bill. sometimes complicated issue of same-sex could rule in a broad way that affects state’s rights In 1972 a couple did try to bring their fight for marriage, breaking down its context and and the federal government’s rights. The rulings equality to the Supreme Court. In Baker v Nelson two where the laws may be headed once the U.S. could go in favor of same-sex marriage or against it. men were denied marriage and they appealed. The Prop 8 Decisions Supreme Court hears two marriage-related Schmidt presented the outcomes on a sliding scale, Supreme Court chose not to hear their case “for want cases this spring. In California, there was same-sex marriage, and looking at what could be gay-positive outcomes or of a substantial federal question.” Since then the case The easy-to-follow presentation left then a ballot proposal stating that marriage could gay-negative outcomes. everyone in the room more educated on the has been viewed as a precedent against the Federal only be between a man and a woman was passed. matter, and with permission we’ve passed government ruling on the issue. Schmidt explained In 2009 it was upheld by the State Supreme Court. What are potential positive outcomes? along a bit of that information here so that that Baker may not be a valid precedent because there In 2010 it was struck down by the U.S. District Court was not a high enough level of scrutiny in the case. The Court recognizes gays and lesbians as a readers can too have a basic understanding and that ruling was again affirmed by the 9th District U.S. Court of Appeals. protected class (Both cases could impact this) of what is going on with this issue. All state constitutional and statutory gay marriage bans are invalidated (Prop 8) Gay marriages qualify for full benefits under federal What is marriage? law (DOMA) While this may seem obvious to some, in debates it States may not take away gay marriage once it has can seem like people are discussing two very different been granted (Prop 8) issues. Schmidt pointed out that in legal terms, States can still ban gay marriage but must marriage cannot be defined by religious beliefs, nor recognize marriages performed elsewhere (DOMA) by the ability to have children. Often people will argue that because only a man and a woman can procreate, What are potential negative outcomes? that only a man and a woman should marry. However The Court finds there is a rational basis to support infertility is not a legal barrier, and there are many treating gay marriage differently (Both cases could married couples who do not have children or who impact this) may not ever want them. States have the specific authority to define marriage (Prop 8) States may refuse to recognize gay marriages Why marriage matters? performed elsewhere (DOMA) Courts have determined that the right to marry is Federal government may limit benefits awarded to fundamental to freedom. Not only does it promote gay marriage (DOMA) free will, there are other benefits that married couples States may not pass new statutes or constitutional enjoy, including: amendments, but old ones stand (Prop 8) Joint liability for debts Mutual support obligations The Supreme Court has accepted this case and Property rights What is Schmidt’s prediction? Could the change in climate will determine if the law is allowed in California. They Survivor benefits & intestate succession could frame their ruling just in terms of California, just Legal experts have speculated what could happen, Immunity from subpoena against a spouse matter? in terms of the people in California who did receive and Schmidt said she’s not going to, except to say Visitation rights in jails, prisons, & hospitals Times have changed since 1972. As of January legal marriage licenses during the time it was legal, or that whether they go in favor of same-sex marriage Military communication rights & death notifications there are now nine states which allow same sex in broad terms that could affect other states. or against it, they’re likely to do so in a big way. marriage including Connecticut, Iowa, Maine, “There were a few other cases that they could have Why do some states allow same- Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, taken, and they picked these ones carefully. It means Vermont, and Washington — as well as the District Windsor v U.S. they are likely to make a firm statement either way. Though they could make the decisions narrowly if they sex marriage and others do not? of Columbia and two Native American tribes. In In Windsor v U.S. the issue involves the federal wanted.” She pointed out that most people consider addition, Rhode Island recognizes same-sex marriages government’s DOMA law which says that marriage is States are allowed to regulate marriage without it to be a split jury, with Justice Anthony Kennedy performed in other jurisdictions and California, which between a man and a woman. In this case a same- infringing on the rights of a man and a woman, being the “swing” vote. Both cases are scheduled to briefly granted same-sex marriages in 2008, now sex couple had a civil union in New York and they including for reasons of race or religion. They can, be heard in late March, with the decisions expected recognizes them on a conditional basis. Thirty states were married in Canada. When Thea Spyder passed however determine things like legal age, waiting to come out in late June or early July. including in Michigan prohibit same-sex marriage in away in 2009, her wife Edith Windsor was given a periods, how far apart they must be in the bloodline the state constitution. etc. Throughout the nation couples who are married $363,000 tax bill from the IRS. Married male/female Popular opinion has changed too, and while polling couples would not have to pay anything in inheritance in one state are considered married wherever they go. may vary there is generally stronger support among Learn More This is called the full faith and credit clause, meaning tax. However because the federal government won’t young adults. Last year for the first time, a majority Freedom to Marry is an organization at the forefront that states must recognize the legal contracts of other recognize same-sex marriages, they treated Windsor of Michigan citizens polled indicated their support for of the same-sex marriage movement, with plenty of states. Same-sex marriage is the glaring exception. In as a legal stranger. Windsor then sued, claiming same-sex marriage. resources for those who want to learn more and get Sept. 1996, President Bill Clinton signed the Defense that this is unfair treatment and a violation of the involved. Their website is www.freedomtomarry.org. of Marriage Act which explicitly defined marriage equal protection clause. A Supreme Court decision Schmidt is a private-practice attorney who between one man and one woman for all federal in this case would affect the federal government’s What will the Supreme Court rule handles civil rights, criminal and family law. Her next purposes (such as social security). DOMA also over- perspective on same-sex marriage. presentation will be about gun control. Find out more rode the full faith and credit clause and granted states on this year? on her website at http://schmidtlawservices.com. permission to ignore the marriage licenses and rights The Supreme Court has decided to take on of couples who were legally wed in other states.

6 BTL | February 14, 2013 www.PrideSource.com recalled. ® Marriage She learned that responding to attacks Continued from p. 5 with grace and humanity is more effective than defensive indignation. And she was able to our LGBTQ communities in places where to teach others that even within the LGBT it had never been before,” she said. community there is a diversity that needs “Marriage was never one of my hot button to be recognized. “There is an assumption issues. But when this happened and I heard when we’re talking about gays that we’re the way they (proponents of Prop 2) were talking about suburban whites. That’s not the talking about us I could not be quiet. I was at case,” she said. One stereotype that grated on the art fair by Wayne State and saw it right in her nerves was when others in the LGBTQ my own back yard. There were people getting community would complain to her about the signatures, and I knew they were being paid, hate spread by the Black Baptist Churches and it was terrible. I knew then that I had to and want to know her insight. Even though get involved.” it’s been years since she practiced, she felt The rush to combine resources and the compelled to say, “I don’t know. I was raised overwhelming odds being faced, meant that Catholic.” groups hunkered down with a fresh mindset Despite misunderstandings and conflicts, of efficiency. Individuals stepped in and the group succeeded in presenting a solid became spokespeople, simply traveling the public front in fighting the bigotry that had state, sitting on discussion panels, speaking to been sprung upon them. Overall Brown was groups and introducing themselves to people proud of the effort. Her disappointment comes who had no idea what it was like to be gay in not from the voters, but from the divisions in Michigan. the community that came about after. Money was a factor, and contributions from “Afterwards we went back to our respective national organizations helped to fund the sandboxes. We’re still operating the same way defense, but significant funds were raised from in some instances. There is a way to plan and grassroots efforts like house parties as well. manage things, but things also need to happen An outside consultant was brought in to virally. There’s a vitality to young people. manage the effort, and data and techniques They don’t have that baggage or those power were borrowed from efforts in other states. struggles that the people who went through this Brown said that whether the move is for 2014 before keep carrying,” said Brown. or 2016, money and research will be important If she could give any advice to the young to the success of the campaign. For example, people, Brown would tell them that, “they need one thing she learned from 2004 that stuck a strategy. Don’t close the door to those before with her was passed down to her from David you. Be open to hearing what they have to say Wilson of Massachusetts. because there are lessons to be learned. But “There they learned that placing an emphasis also stand your ground and recognize what on family and the issues tied to it helped to you bring to the table. Recognize your power.” break down barriers more effectively than Brown said that personally she is ready dialogue about individual rights and gay rights to step back and support the youth who are did,” said Brown. moving things forward and hopes that other “When you broke it down to what is a established leaders will do the same. “This family, the anti-marriage sticking point isn’t 2004,” she said. “There wasn’t Twitter vanished. You speak in terms of adoption, of and Facebook. There wasn’t all this support parenting, of being able to help someone you in the public and the media. And there is a love when they are sick and economic issues whole generation without the same baggage. like healthcare. Then bring in kids whose They have no idea what we went through, and parents are gay or whose aunts or uncles are they don’t have it to weigh them down. They and you speak from their perspective. It’s look at the world and say, “Why not now?” powerful,” Brown said. Another lesson came from talking with people in other progressive groups. How To Get Involved “Sometimes we go out and talk about our issue Individuals and groups that want to be without working with others on their issues,” at the table as the marriage discussions are Brown said. “Being visible makes a difference. happening can contact Megh Hollowell at We are each more than just gay.” Affirmations at mhollowell@goaffirmations. She remembered going to a town hall where org. Affirmations has been active with the the push back from the mostly anti-gay crowd Unity Partners and the Community Center was terrific. “I was getting nowhere with the Network and Hollowell is serving as the crowd on presenting our side. We were ready point person for organizing volunteers to give up when a woman in the audience stood and referring them to other community up with encouraging words. She remembered centers and organizations to help. The me from a community clean-up event and Community Center partners all offer she said, “I don’t know about gay stuff, but volunteer opportunities on the marriage issue I remember that woman who came in and and on educating Michigan residents about cleaned up a park. I know she cared about the challenges LGBT people face. Those our community. So if this is something that’s interested in lobbying their legislators can important to her and helps her stay here than learn from Equality Michigan, which is also we should listen to what she needs,” Brown part of the Unity Coalition. www.PrideSource.com February 14, 2013 | BTL 7 Creep of the Week OPINION BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI Detroit Man Sentenced Diana Medley ot every teacher is able to find that they’re all the same to Medley). For Anti-Gay Hate Crime the courage to boldly declare “I don’t believe that they were born DETROIT – Almost two years after Justin Alesna Alesna fought back and asked the cashier to call the that gay, lesbian, and bisexual that way. I think that life circumstances N was brutally attacked in a convenience store, his attacker, police. The cashier did not call the police, but told the students have made them choose that. I think that Everett Dwayne Avery, 26, was sentenced to 18 months men to stop fighting. no purpose in God made everybody equal.” in prison to be followed by three years of supervised “The amount of cruelty that was shown to me life and that Let’s unpack that. Gay people were release. Avery throughout this whole situation is beyond appalling,” their very not born gay, they just choose to be was convicted Alesna said. “The fact that I was assaulted and asked existence is gay to compensate for their terrible of committing to leave the crime scene. The fact that there were two offensive to lives. And God made everybody equal. a federal other individuals besides myself and the clerk who did her. Except that Medley obviously is not hate crime nothing but gawk and laugh the whole time this was But special interested in treating gay, lesbian, The amount of by assaulting going on. What happened to decency?” education and bisexual students as equal to Alesna because Avery pled guilty to violating the federal Hate teacher Diana heterosexual students. So by “equal” cruelty that was shown he is gay. Crimes Protection Act on Aug. 29, 2012. Medley at I think she means “straight.” Which “ to me throughout BTL reported “Congress has made it clear that it is a crime to Sullivan means that the queers have gone and the March 7, assault people solely on the basis of their sexual High School “unequaled” themselves, making this this whole situation is 2011 attack soon orientation,” said U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District in Indiana is an exception. whole thing their own damn fault. after it happened. of Michigan Barbara McQuade. “Prosecutions under Especially if by “courage” we And to think that Medley gets paid beyond appalling. At that time this law are important to ensure that all people in our mean ignorance and bigotry, or, as real taxpayer dollars to “educate” Alesna told BTL community know that they have the full protection the combination of the two is more openly gay students. that Avery asked of the law. commonly called, “dumbfuckery.” “I have kids come to me because of - Justin Alesna ” him to not stand “Hate-fueled incidents like this one have no place Now, as I am sure you can their sexual preference, and they know too close to him in a civilized society,” said Thomas E. Perez, Assistant imagine, the gays started it. All I don’t agree with it, but I care about while Alesna was standing in line and waiting to Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division. “The Medley and a few like-minded folks you,” she said. purchase cigarettes. Avery then started asking Alesna Justice Department is committed to using all the tools wanted was For the if he was “a fucking homo.” Alesna ignored him, in our law enforcement arsenal, including the Matthew a homo- I’m pretty sure she’s talking record, I would purchased his cigarettes and went to leave when Avery Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention free prom advise students stopped him and showed him a gun. Alesna said Avery Act, to prosecute acts motivated by hate.” but Sullivan about homosexuality and not to go to then punched him in the face, fracturing his eye socket. High School since she and her cohort Medley about wouldn’t give your “sexual it to them, are all offended, they preference” metaphorically decided to make their own because, for one, Ex-Corunna Teacher Says punching Jesus she doesn’t seem in the face by little prom in a church to know that’s allowing same- not the same sex couples not basement or something thing as sexual only to attend and make it very clear: orientation. She Lost Job Over Gay Club prom, but to Though I doubt CORUNNA, Mich. (AP) – A former teacher is officials haven’t been served with the lawsuit. participate in the NO HOMOS ALLOWED. she cares. suing a central Michigan school district that did not Brook says she got negative evaluations because Grand March, Secondly, renew her contract following a dispute over a poster she was involved with a high school diversity club. which I guess is some kind of prom someone who thinks you’re too icky raising awareness for the LGBT community. Brook’s contract expired in 2011. parade or whatever but it doesn’t even to go to prom doesn’t care about you. The Argus-Press of Owosso reports Thursday that Brook was the club’s adviser in 2009 when the matter what it is because obviously If LGBT students need further proof Brook Johnson filed the suit in federal court in Flint school board voted to remove a club poster from a gays shouldn’t be allowed in it because of Medley’s “caring,” check out what against the Corunna Public Schools and some current school showcase. The board later allowed the poster GOD. she says when the newscaster then asks and former district officials. to remain. “We don’t agree with it and it’s if she thinks that gays have a purpose The district says it’s declining comment because offensive to us,” Medley told a local in life. TV news reporter. “I don’t. I personally don’t. I’m By “it” I’m pretty sure she’s talking sorry. I just, I don’t understand it. A gay Grant Allows Affirmations Cyber Center Upgrade about homosexuality and since she student or adult or person isn’t going FERNDALE – The new year is bringing changes “I believe the upgrades have made an incredible and her cohort are all offended, they to come up and make some change to Affirmations Community Center. A grand re- improvement. Ultimately, I believe center users will decided to make their own little prom unless it’s because they realize you opening event will take place on Feb. 15 to unveil the have a better experience by being in a more welcoming in a church basement or something know what, it was a choice and I’m improvements. One of the most notable changes is space,” said David Garcia, executive director. and make it very clear: NO HOMOS choosing God,” said Medley. the addition of 15 new computers in the cyber center The grand re-opening event will take place all day ALLOWED. Granted it’s not the most articulate area. A grant from the David Bohnett Foundation Friday and tours will be given every hour beginning Besides being offended that people answer, and I think the words “I which provides funding, state-of-the-art technology at 10 a.m. by Garcia. Community members are also who are different than her exist, Medley don’t understand it” speak volumes, and technical support, made these recent upgrades invited to a wine toast at 6 p.m. Beverages and snacks has some very specific thoughts about but the meaning is pretty clear. The possible. The new computers will allow for additional will be available throughout the day. Affirmations is gays and lesbians. only purpose Medley thinks homos programming and training courses going forward. located at 290 W. 9 Mile Rd. in Ferndale. “I believe it was a choice that she have is to de-gay themselves in the In addition, by leveraging a Building for the Future For more information contact Director of Communications made,” she told NBC 2 (who “she” is name of God. grant that provided matching funds, the center has here is not clear, though it could be any Oh, and also to ruin prom for the replaced flooring in the most heavily used areas, using Cassandra Varner at 248-398-7105 ext. 227 or email lesbian. I think it’s pretty safe to say kids who matter. more durable and easily maintained materials. [email protected].

8 BTL | February 14, 2013 www.PrideSource.com HIV Prevalence Predictions in Gay, Bi Men ‘Staggering’ BY TODD HEYWOOD predictions in one form or another since 2009, but did not share those numbers with AIDS LANSING – If current infection trends groups or LGBT organizations. continue unabated, the federal government “While MDCH has not directly shared estimates that today’s 20-year-old men who this study with ASOs and LGBT leaders and have sex with men will face a 50 percent organizations, we have used this information infection rate in 30 years - 70 percent for black and the numbers to shape and prioritize our men who have sex. Those numbers double the priorities, for community conversations, and highest prevalence estimates during the height to inform our community partners as has been of the epidemic in the late 80s and early 90s evident by the agencies and the initiatives that experts say. are funded by MDCH that ASOs and LGBT The government also says that the current organizations are providing in the respective cohort of 20 year old men who have sex with jurisdictions to focus and target the LGBT men has an overall prevalence today of 10 community,” said Angela Minicucci in an percent, while black men who have sex with email. men have a 20 percent prevalence. She said the department does not share The predictions were presented in a session studies with the community when they are at the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force’s “made public by the institution publishing annual Creating Change Conference held in them.” January in Atlanta. Greg Millett, an employee Curtis Lipscomb, executive director of of the CDC assigned to the Office of National KICK which is an African American LGBT AIDS Policy at the White House, presented community agency in Detroit, said the the numbers to a gathering of about 40 people, numbers were troubling, but that the MDCH’s mostly from AIDS service organizations, failure to disclose them widely was an issue during a three hour session on HIV in the men as well. who have sex with men behavioral category. “I can’t understand why it would be private Michigan AIDS advocates and LGBT particularly to those who provide services” leaders call the predictions “staggering” and Lipscomb said. “The more the information is “unconscionable.” withheld from people we provide services to The Michigan Department of Community the more people die. We know that when there Health, however, says it has known about the is a lack of knowledge we perish.” AIDS Partnership Michigan Appoints Chief Executive Officer Tom Verwest, president and development, including the development of APM’s of the board of AIDS highly recognized social media campaign to increase Partnership Michigan, HIV testing targeting young African American men in has announced the Detroit, Wayne and Washtenaw counties. appointment of William VanHemert holds a BS in Psychology from Central D. VanHemert to the Michigan University and a Master of Social Work in position of chief executive Clinical Mental Health from Wayne State University. officer effective March 4. AIDS Partnership Michigan, the state of Michigan’s VanHemert will succeed first incorporated AIDS service organization, provides Barbara Murray, who is total wrap around services in response to HIV/ retiring after 24 years in AIDS including operation of the Michigan HIV/STD the leadership position. He Hotline, HIV counseling and testing, medical case will become the 30 year old organization’s third CEO. management, community re-entry for the Michigan VanHemert was employed at APM from 1993 to Department of Corrections and Wayne County jail, 1996. After moving to the western U.S., he served in behavioral health services and early intervention positions with the Arizona Department of Health, New services. Over 8,500 clients are served annually. The Arizona Family and United Behavioral Health in San organization employs 26 full time staff and manages Francisco. He returned to APM in 2009 and has most an annual operating budget of $2.2 million. recently served as director of community mobilization Learn more at www.aidspartnership.org, on Facebook and at 1-800-872-2437. www.PrideSource.com February 14, 2013 | BTL 9 Re: Leon Panetta expands It’s February: Time for Love, Marriage And Equality community. face it, there is no good reason to deny LGBTQ gay partners’ benefits Since those early days we, as a community, Americans marriage equality. have done a lot to remove that invisibility and Protect the sanctity of marriage – seriously. “At the time of repeal, I committed Viewpoint the public shift on gay marriage is the result of Same sex marriage had nothing to do with Kim to reviewing benefits that had all that hard work. Even as I write this I know Kardashian’s failed 72 day marriage, then getting not previously been available to other states including Illinois are moving towards pregnant without benefit of marriage by another marriage equality. man while still married to her 72-day wonder same-sex partners based on existing A part of me is ready to go out and buy some husband. law and policy. It is a matter of dancing shoes for all those wedding receptions on Marriage is an archaic but evolving institution fundamental equity that we provide OPINION BY MICHELLE E. BROWN the horizon but I’m still not ready to jump on the that establishes the rights and obligations between similar benefits to all of those men marriage band wagon. spouses including at least 1,138 federal tangible and women in uniform who serve t’s February; love’s in the air, and apparently Why you might ask? Because we still haven’t benefits, protections, rights, and responsibilities their country. The department everyone is high on the Valentine’s Day had that real discussion about marriage that goes that marriage brings couples and their children. already provides a group of benefits IKool-Aid. beyond the ring and the ceremony – the denial of Bottom line is if you want the benefits then you You expect to be inundated with love stories, that are member-designated. Today, the basic human rights. better put a ring on it. engagements and wedding photos but did you I am pleased to announce that I have dialogues on gay rights and marriage But amidst our voices lifted in singing “Going ever think you would see so many LGBTQ on several different sites and on the weekly blog to the Chapel” is another chorus of voices asking after a thorough and deliberate engagements and weddings? radio program I co-host “Can We Talk For Real.” why; why must we go through the motions to review, the department will extend I mean it’s not just in traditional media but on I have been amazed by the diversity of feelings on provide basic human rights for our spouses and additional benefits to same-sex social media and in local media as well. marriage in the LGBTQ community. families? partners of service members.” Ellen DeGeneres/Portia de Rossi, Elton John/ Marriage is how we acknowledge our Chicago songstress C.C. Carter related how David Furnish, Cynthia Nixon/Christine Marinoni, relationships, a showing of our personal she had been dragged kicking and screaming to – Leon E. Panetta, Statement George Takei/Brad Altman, Neil Patrick Harris/ commitment to the love of our life for the whole the altar to marry her spouse. It wasn’t that she from Secretary of Defense David Burtka, Rosie O’Donnell/Michelle Rounds world to see. So how are we making marriage our didn’t love her wife. They have been together for and Jim Nabors/Stan Callawader are just a few of own in our ceremonies, in our expectations and in years and no license or piece of paper could give “All members of our armed forces the celebrity couples whose nuptials have made our lives? Are we making it our own or buying them greater acknowledgement, recognition or provide the same service, make headlines. into the industry? validation. The issue for Carter was why she (or the same sacrifices, and take And these unions are being reported not as I read a recent post where the woman had a anyone) needed to get a license to provide what the same risks to protect our assaults on the “sanctity of marriage” but as a laundry list for potential spouses which included should be a basic human right for everyone – to reason to celebrate far and wide. Did you see how country – and the military, like not only income and education levels but also that provide for and protect our families. many times ABC celebrated the marriage of Sam many employers – would like to her future spouse owned a car no more than five In the end it’s all about love. The love we have Champion to Rubem Robierb? They talked about years old. Then there are the wedding planners/ for each other. The love we have for our families. treat its people equally. But DOMA’s it the entire weekend of the pair’s nuptials. packages that for the right price can give you the The love we have for equality and ultimately, gay exception means that the With Maryland and Maine joining best faux-heterosexual ceremony so authentic the love we should have for one another to live federal government, including the Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa, Vermont, that even FOX News was fooled recently using in peace, safety and equality. Now wouldn’t that Pentagon, may not provide family New Hampshire, New York, Washington and the a “wedding kiss” photo to accompany a piece be an amazing Valentine’s gift to the world? protections to families or even District of Colombia, more and more LGBTQ about traditional gender roles that was actually of Michelle E. Brown is a Public Speaker, Activist and respect married couples as married, brothers and sisters are following Beyonce’s advice a same sex couple. Author. You can follower her at www.mychangeiam. if they are gay. The problem is not and “Putting a ring on it.” I’ve received so many But this isn’t what we’ve been fighting for, more invitations that for 2013, I’ve had to add a new com and www.twitter.com/mychangeiam what the military and employers like unintended consequences. line to my personal budget for wedding gifts and What we’ve been fighting for is equality under would like to do; it’s that the law is travel. Amazing! the law. Equality promised in the Constitution to tying the hands of employers and I recently had the opportunity to sit down with protect citizens from discrimination from laws that the military for no good reason.” a reporter and talk about the marriage equality treat them differently for no good reason. And let’s movement and the changes I’ve seen since 2004 –Evan Wolfson, founder and when I first got involved fighting a discriminatory president of Freedom to Marry proposal in my home state of Michigan. Unfortunately that proposal passed, enshrining “Secretary Panetta’s decision today discrimination into the state’s constitution. It answers the call President Obama went beyond banning same-sex marriage and issued in his inaugural address to civil unions, and was interpreted by the Michigan complete our nation’s journey toward Supreme Court to not allow public employers to equality, acknowledging the equal grant domestic partnership benefits. service and equal sacrifice of our Then as now, I’m not looking for a wife. I’ve gay and lesbian service members never had dreams of a big wedding, a church wedding or any kind of wedding for that matter. My and their families. We thank him for mother got married in a yellow suit in her parent’s getting us a few steps closer to full living room about three months after meeting my equality - steps that will substantively dad. The story was steeped in romanticism but the improve the quality of life of gay reality of married life observed from this child’s and lesbian military families” eye – well led me to the conclusion that, like the song goes, “I could do bad by myself.” –Allyson Robinson, But there was something about that first foray OutServe-SLDN Executive Director into the war for marriage equality that hit home. Not only were these opponents spreading lies and For more information on OutServe-SLDN, falsely vilifying my community, I realized that in visit www.outserve-sldn.org. many instances I was invisible as a gay American to my friends, family, co-workers, neighbors and

10 BTL | February 14, 2013 www.PrideSource.com Lucy Van Pelt Goes Disco

Parting Glances

OPINION BY CHARLES ALEXANDER

’m spending several hours this week with 40 kids, the youngest three, the oldest 14. Each has a story about being or becoming Iaware that they are “different,” had crushes on other boys, puppy loved other girls. Incipient same-sex attractions all. Their stories are accompanied with photographs taken by adoring parents, nosey neighbors, intrigued friends, who in the long run provide support, rejection, bewilderment, and once in a while applause. Each kid’s awakening moment features in a new book, “Born This Way: Real Stories of Growing Up Gay,” by Paul Vitagliano (Quirk Press, $14.95). Vitagliano is a radio DJ, events promoter, self-styled “promosexual.” Presumably a big Lady Gaga fan. “I started the BTW project to show young gay kids that they’re not alone: many others have gone through everything they’re experiencing now,” says Vitagliano “We must share our stories and pay it forward for future generations. Being gay is as normal and natural as being straight.” “How could they not but know I was gay?” asks Dennis, now 38, of a picture of him treasure snapped for posterity at age 3, with his hands artsy on his hips, one knee a little too akimbo, in Vogue magazine high fashion style, not to set off gaydar alarms for today’s readers. Then there’s Steven, age 4, looking every bit the little charmer in a blue baton-twirler’s costume. His sister’s. He says, “I don’t remember wearing it, but I’m sure my mom thought it was harmless and funny. As early as this age, I loved feminine things: art, and playing doctor with my cute neighbors. “Later I was in chorus and band, like many of us kids back then. I was the only boy in junior high to choose disco class over football.” Clarissa, age 4, born in the Bronx, 1969, is shown riding a Merry-go-round motorcycle. “I always wanted to be tough and Visit our website! dirty, and I would go to work with my dad the mechanic. My http://www.pridesource.com mom found a way to get me to wear dresses by making them Add our fan page! herself, patterning them after Lucy Van Pelt of the Peanut’s Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” cartoon. I acknowledged Lucy’s toughness, and I felt touch in those dresses too.” Follow us! Not included in the book is someone very special to me: @YourBTL Bobby, age 5. The picture (see above) is taken at Lake Orion, Michigan. Bobby answers to the nickname given to him by his Uncle Jack: “Buzz.” Bobby also learns early on to provide full title information should he be lost (or, kidnapped for ransom by a Buck Rogers movie serial villain): Charles Robert Bobby Alexander, Jr. Bobby is an only child, which is OK with him, as there are plenty of kids in the apartment building where he lives. He is popular with girls, Betty, Joan, and Patsy, but enjoys playing baseball, kick-the-can, and What Time Is It, Mr. Fox? with Burton School classmates and neighborhood chums. At age 13, Bobby who has magically become Al, is told by same-age, former kindergarten buddy, Charles Authier, “We better stop this, or we’ll grow up to be, you know, queer.” (I know what happened to one Charles. I wonder whatever happened to the other?) [email protected] www.PrideSource.com February 14, 2013 | BTL 11 LGBT Catholics React To Pope’s Resignation BY CHUCK COLBERT McMullan agreed. “I can only feel a inclination” and “intrinsic moral evil” profound sense of relief, gratitude and to explain “homosexual acts.” In a decision that surprised, if not renewed hope on hearing the news that Those harsh words influenced shocked the one billion Roman Catholics Pope Benedict has resigned,” he said. recent 1990’s editions of the Catholic worldwide, Pope Benedict XVI said on “This should be good news for Church’s Catechism, calling gays to Monday that he was stepping down. everyone,” added McMullan, who is chastity, which in effect requires of them News of his resignation came during a lead organizer with the advocacy mandatory life-long celibacy as the only a meeting of Vatican cardinals. “After group Catholics for Marriage Equality way to sexual morality. having repeatedly examined my in California. Dignity San Francisco’s Camisa conscience before God, I have come to Francis DeBernardo, executive took issue with the call to chastity. “To the certainty that director of New Ways Ministry, said enforce a vow of celibacy or chastity my strengths, due on gay people who to an advanced have no choice in the age, are no matter of being gay is longer suited inhumane,” he said. to an adequate McMullan went exercise of the further. “The animus Petrine ministry,” of Halloween Letter Benedict said, made homosexual according to the orientation a special English language disposition to evil, text of his remarks almost a second from Reuters. original sin,” he said. Benedict’s Under Cardinal departure takes Ratzinger’s effect on Feb. tenure, the Vatican 28, marking the articulated its first time in six unambiguous centuries that opposition to same- a pontiff has Pope Benedict XVI. Photo: miqu77, Shutterstock.com sex marriage. resigned. “There are The 85-year- in a statement that while members of absolutely no old pope spoke of his decision to resign his organization “are praying for the grounds for considering homosexual as one of “great importance for the life future of the church and for the pope’s unions to be in any way similar to or of the Church.” health,” they “are praying, too, for even remotely analogous to God’s A March conclave, a meeting of the LGBT Catholics and their families and plan for marriage and the family,” he College of Cardinals, will convene friends, whose lives were made more wrote in the June 2003 CDF document, to elect the pope’s successor, perhaps difficult living under Benedict’s reign.” “Considerations Regarding Proposals before Easter, March 31 As DeBernardo noted, “For the last to Give Legal Recognition to Unions Benedict XVI, the former Cardinal three decades, Benedict has been one Between Homosexual Persons.” Joseph Ratzinger, was elected pope on of the main architect’s of the Vatican’s “Marriage is holy, while homosexual April 19, 2005. policies against LGBT people. acts go against the natural law,” From 1981 until his election, Ratzinger Based in Mount Rainier, Maryland, Ratzinger explained. served as prefect of the Congregation for New Ways Ministry is a national gay- The same 2003 document also the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF), the positive ministry of education, healing, denounced gay and lesbian couples who church’s doctrinal enforcement arm. In reconciliation, and justice for lesbian are parents. “Allowing children to be both roles as prefect and pontiff, he was and gay Catholics, families, and friends adopted by persons living in such unions a decidedly conservative theologian, and the wider church. would actually mean doing violence to crafting increasingly hardline doctrine It was under then Cardinal Ratzinger’s these children,” Ratzinger wrote. against homosexuality. leadership, for example, when the CDF More recently, in his Jan. 7, 2013 Nevertheless, Benedict’s resignation issued a 1986 “Letter to the Bishops of “State of the World” address, Pope prompted measured reactions from some the Catholic Church on the Pastoral Care Benedict XVI spoke out against global LGBT Catholics. of Homosexual Persons.” efforts to extend civil-marriage rights “I think the pope’s resigning is one LGBT Catholics often refer to the to same-sex couples, naming same-sex of the noblest things he had done in document as the “Halloween Letter” marriage a threat to “human dignity and his papacy,” said Ernest L. Camisa, because of its October issue date. the future of humanity itself.” secretary of Dignity San Francisco. The letter speaks of “objective Boston-based Charles Martel, co- Another gay Catholic, Eugene disorder” to describe the “homosexual founder of Catholics for Marriage

12 BTL | February 14, 2013 www.PrideSource.com Equality, an advocacy organization, offered an assessment of the pope’s marriage equality legacy. “In terms of marriage, one of the things that Benedict has done is to speak about gay people in the language of being less than what God intended,” said Martel. “The pope seemed incapable of recognizing that any ministry to gay people requires not merely respect, but to acknowledge a sense of wholeness in the person. That is a very sad legacy indeed.” The executive director of Medford-based DignityUSA, an LGBT Catholic advocacy organization, was even more pointed. “I think it would be difficult to think of a religious figure who has a more damaging legacy for LGBT people than Benedict,” Marianne Duddy-Burke told the Boston Globe. For years the Vatican has steadfastly stood against the use of condoms in the fight to stop the spread of HIV infection. During a 2009 trip to Africa, Benedict said condom use might even make the AIDS epidemic worse. But in what appeared to be a slight relaxing of Church policy, the pope said that in the case of male prostitution, condom use might be acceptable. “There can be single justified cases,” Benedict said, “for example when a prostitute uses a condom, and this can be the first step toward a moralization, a first act of responsibility in developing anew an awareness of the fact that not everything is permissible and that we cannot do everything we want.” The pope’s comments, reported by any number of mainstream media outlets in November 2010, came from a lengthy interview with a German journalist. Not all Catholics agree Benedict XVI’s departure is good news. “I think not,” said Phil Attey, a gay man and pro-equality Catholic activist and former executive and co-founder of Catholics for Equality. He explained, “What it means to me is that the most hateful and mean spirited anti-gay pope in the history of the Catholic Church is so determined to continue his reign of terror beyond his life on earth, that he’s going to orchestrate his succession, ensuring the next pope carries on his mission to demonize, marginalize, and oppress every gay man who comes out of the closet and demands to be treated as equals among God’s children.” “In short, it’s likely the next pope is even more hateful and mean spirited than this one,” said Attey. And yet for all the Vatican’s anti-gay rhetoric over several decades, pro-LGBT Catholic advocacy organizations voiced hope. “We pray the new pope will listen to, and know or get to know LGBT people, particularly those who have established loving and faithful households with children, and that he will encourage bishops to do likewise,” said Mary Ellen and Casey Lopata, co-founders of Fortunate Families and parents of a gay son. The Rochester, New York-based Fortunate Families is resource and networking ministry with Catholic parents of LGBT children. For its part, the Catholic group Equally Blessed also voiced hope for a brighter future with a listening pope. Equally Blessed is a coalition of four LGBT-friendly Catholic advocacy organizations, including DignityUSA, Fortunate Families, Call to Action, and New Ways Ministry. “With the pope’s impending resignation, the church has an opportunity to turn away from his oppressive policies toward Accommodations • Accounting • Adoption Services • AIDS/HIV Hotlines • AIDS/HIV Organizations • Air Conditioning/Heating • Alzheimer's Association • Animal Shelter • Antiques • Apartments • Archives/Collections • Art LGBT Catholics, and their families and friends,” the coalition MICHIGAN’S LGBT YELLOW PAGES Galleries • Art Studios • Artists • Athletics and Recreation • Attorneys • Auto Collision • Auto/Dealer • Auto/Detailing • Auto/Repair • Bakeries • Banks • Banquet Hall/Catering • Bars/Clubs/Discos • Bath Remodeling • Bicycles • said in a statement. Blinds2012 / 2013 • B ookstores ONLINE • &Builders IN PRINT • Business Developmenthttp:// Agency • wwwCable Television.pridesource Provider • Campus; Student and.com/direc Alumni Groups • Cancer Supportoryt Groups.html • Carpet Cleaning • Carpeting & Rugs • Casino • Catering • Chiropractors It continues, “We pray for a pope who is willing to listen to • Chocolates • Chorus • Clothing • Coffee Shop • Commitment Ceremonies • Community Centers • Computer Services • Concert/Music • Concrete • Concrete/Decorative • Construction/Builders • Counseling • Counseling Education • Countertops • Credit Union • Cruise Planners • Dance Studio • Decks • Dentists • Dermatology • Drapery • Electricians • Entertainment Agency • Erotica • Event Planners • Families and Parents • Farmers Market • and learn from all of God’s people. We pray for a pope who will Fertility Services • Festival Production • Financial Services • Flooring • Florists/Floral Design • Foundations and Funders • Framing • Funeral Services • Furniture • Gift Shops • Grocers • Hair Cutting & Styling • Hair Restoration • realize that in promoting discrimination against LGBT people, Handyman • Head Shop • Health & BeautyMichig • Heating & Cooling • Homean’s Care Services LGBT • Home Improvement Y • Homeello Inspectorsw • Hospita Pls • Hotlinesages & Switchboards • Insurance • Invitations • Jewelers • Kitchen Cabinets • Kitchen Remodeling • Lamps/Lighting • Landscape Supplies • Landscaping/Nurseries • Leather Gear • Legal Organizations • Limousines • Linens • Massage Therapy • Massage Therapy School • Mediation • Moving Companies • the church inflicts pain on marginalized people, alienates the Museums • Music Groups • Nationalin Organizations Print • Opera C ompanory • OptometristsFully • P artySear Planning • Pachabletio Furniture • Personal ChOnline!!!ef Services • Personal Trainer • Pet Adoption • Pet Boarding • Pet Day Care • Pet Grooming • faithful, and lends moral credibility to reactionary political Pet Supplies • Pet Training • Pharmacy • Photo Booth • Photography • Physicians • Physicians/Gynecology & Obstetrics • Plastic Surgery • Plumbing • Podiatrists • Political Organizations • Pools & Spas • Printing • Professional OrganizationsFROM THE PUBLISHERS •OF Psychics • Publications • Real Estate Appraiser • Real Estate/Agent • Religious & Spiritual • Renewable energy • Rental Service • Restaurants • Rodeo • Roofing • Senior Living • Siding • Skin Care • Social/Community PrideSource.com Over 1000 LGBT Owned and Friendly Businesses and Non-Profit Organizations movements across the globe.” Organizations • Solar Energy • Spas • Sports • Substance Abuse • Symphony Orchestra • T-Shirts • Tai Chi • Tax Planning • Tax Planning/Preparation • Television • Theaters • Transgender Groups/Services • Travel • Tuxedo & Dress www.PrideSource.com February 14, 2013 | BTL 13 Getting Creative Gay Owned Mortgage Company Here To Help

BY JIM LARKIN bottom fell out of the mortgage business and Be included in Matthews went on to other pursuits. Peg Matthews knows it can be But the rejuvenation of the real estate and uncomfortable when gay and lesbian couples mortgage market allowed her to re-enter the our Lansing Cool make one of life’s field and provide the biggest decisions specialized service Cities Pages – mortgaging their she said gay people home – with an deserve. agent who either “With us you can doesn’t understand be perfectly honest or, worse yet, instead of sitting Call Ann today: doesn’t condone there thinking what their lifestyle. to say and what not Yet that’s usually to say,” Matthews 734-293-7200 x13 what they are forced said. “Let’s face it, to do when they a lot of bankers are go to a big bank very conservative or large mortgage and that’s not company. That’s not the case at Creative the kind of person most gay people feel Shop Lansing! Capital, which Matthews recently re-opened comfortable dealing with.” near her home town of Saugatuck, at 2987 She noted that those handling loans at Blue Star Highway in Douglas. She believes major banks do not have to be licensed and Go Spartans it to be the only gay-owned mortgage broker operate instead under the umbrella license in the state. of the bank. Brokers like Creative Capital, The small office with statewide service however, have to have federal and state stresses personalized care to gay and lesbian licensing. Her closing costs and interest clients, in the same manner that she and her rates are also usually lower than big banks, own partner of 22 years would want. she added. “It’s one of the biggest decisions you’re “Plus when you go into a bank you have going to make in your lifetime and it should to fit your scenario into their programs,” be a happy occasion,” said Matthews, who she added. “I have the ability to customize previously had a Creative Capital office in programs to fit you.” Royal Oak. “So you should be able to be Although located in Saugatuck, she can yourself and be completely comfortable and provide mortgages for people throughout open with the person providing the service, the state. She has offices she can use in the instead of wondering what he or she thinks metro Detroit area and title companies that of you. can go directly to people to close their loans. “We shouldn’t have to give our business “With the Internet, overnight delivery to straight-owned businesses out of lack and e-mail services, you don’t even have of choice and thankfully, when it comes to to come into my office,” she said. “I’ve mortgages now we don’t.” done mortgages in Traverse City, the Upper Matthews was a financial consultant to Peninsula, all over Michigan.” automobile dealerships before opening You can contact Matthews at [email protected] Creative Capital offices in suburban Detroit and Saugatuck in the late 1990s and and view her website at creativecapitalinc.com. continuing into the early 2000s, before the

Art Donations Sought for LAAN Support Lansing Community College Gay Straight the virus. Alliance is looking for artists who wish to The subject of the art or type of art does donate their art to be auctioned off for the not matter. As long as it’s complete and can Lansing Area AIDS Network (LAAN). be delivered by April 1. LAAN is an organization dedicated to the Contact LCC GSA Advisor Christopher Green delivery of services and programs designed [email protected] for more information to meet the needs of those living with HIV/ regarding art submission. For more information AIDS and to prevent the further spread of on LAAN, go to www.LAANOnline.org

14 BTL | February 14, 2013 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com February 14, 2013 | BTL 15 Quin Sisters On Pop Evolution and Pros Of Having A Lesbian Sibling

BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI to get past the sound.” the video for “Closer”? Tegan: Our house parties have gotten quite The sound she’s referring to was captured a bit less interesting than they were when Sara: We were reimagining our teen years hey’ve been on the verge of straight-up in all its heavenly bliss when their seventh we were younger. I still think we can throw when we were putting this video together. pop music for years, but Tegan and Sara, album’s first single, “Closer,” instantly aligned down a pretty mean shindig, but we don’t In middle school and high school, we Twho just announced an opening gig itself with some of the best pop songs of the generally do karaoke. And I’ve never had a loved house parties. Our house parties then for fun. on July 16 at Meadow Brook Music mid ’90s. We revisited that defining era in costume party. would’ve been an R-rated version of this. We Festival, are going all in with “Heartthrob.” music – and even before then, when the girls were fairly disgusting and doing things that I “Closer” could really be the theme song to Don’t think they’re all happy and stuff, were hanging New Kids on the Block posters would be embarrassed to have on camera. I’m somebody’s first kiss. What songs remind you though. in their bedroom – during our new interview of your first? “It’s our most heartbreaking record,” Tegan with the Quin sisters. like an old woman now. A house party for me reassures. “It’s a great record for people who now means more than two people over and me Sara: There’s something about Björk, loved our past music. It’s just that they have Are your house parties anything like the one in going to the store to get wine. (Laughs) because this girl I had a crush on loved

16 BTL | February 14, 2013 www.PrideSource.com (“Post”), and if I hear it now I’m completely alienated our audience – and I also think we transported back to high school. I never could would’ve just alienated ourselves from our have told her that I felt something for her, that genre, as well. We were so indie rock that SAVE THE DATE: APRIL 7 I had a crush, so whenever I hear any songs if, all of sudden, we made a pop record, they off of “Post” I immediately go there. would’ve been like, “What the fuck?” This The 3rd Annual BTL Same-Sex Tegan: I remember discovering Ani DiFranco gradual evolution has been necessary. I don’t and really embracing the side of me that liked think we would’ve existed if we had tried to girls. I was also really into Ace of Base and I do it differently. would sit in my parents’ huge Jacuzzi tub in Did you worry about the hipsters who can’t their bathroom and fill up the tub after school really appreciate anything beyond that angsty Wedding and sit in it and talk on the phone (with my indie rock? friends) and listen to that Ace of Base record EXPO over and over again. It’s so weird that I was Tegan: No. It’s not necessarily hipsters, but naked the whole time. (Laughs) there is a certain type of person who is really interested in what’s cool and being hip, but Sunday, April 7 Was your first kiss with a boy? they don’t actually buy records. So when Tegan: My first kiss was with a boy. If anything, we sat down to make this record with Greg From 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. I loved having boyfriends because I could talk Kurstin, we talked about our fears. He said, about how much I liked girls with them all the “Don’t worry about your fans. You wrote time. (Laughs) In my teen years I dated boys great songs. Who cares if you put a bunch of Detroit Livonia Marriott but I didn’t hate it. I wasn’t like, “Oh, gross.” keyboards on it? That is what you’re listening And then I kissed a girl and was like, “One’s not to; it’s what you’re inspired by. Embrace that right and one is definitely awesome.” part of yourself and don’t worry.” I-275 & 6 Mile “Heartthrob” is that record where I just For this album you really immersed yourself in want people who love that record. We’ll ’80s and ’90s pop music. What was the first pop take anybody. I don’t really care. If people Great Door Prizes! album you owned? from the dance world like it, great. If people Sara: My first choice as a child was New from the indie world like it, great. If it’s those Free Food Kids on the Block. We had all the records, people who like Lady Gaga and Katy Perry, sleeping bags and posters. Everything you that’s fine, too. & Drinks could possibly have. Then I branched into Sara, feeling isolated within the queer community punk, grunge, rock and indie rock. It’s only and not having LGBT role models is what inspired recently, in the last six or seven years, that Over 40 Fabulous your song “I’m Not Your Hero.” But you had Tegan. I’ve gotten back into what I would now classify as pop music. Most people would think that would be the best Vendors kind of support. Is that not the case? Tegan: New Kids on the Block was huge Sara: Certainly having Tegan in my life has for us. That first cassette tape that came out meant that I feel inherently supported, because in 1986 was, besides children’s music, the I have someone who is like me and who is first music that we picked ourselves. It was going through a lot of the same experiences I Register very empowering. Around that same time, I am. My life would be entirely different if Tegan remember really getting excited about Michael were straight. I’ve always had this person who Jackson, because he was on the radio all the Online Early reflects, for good and for bad, so much of me. time. In sixth and seventh grade it was Janet We look the same, and we enjoy so many of the Jackson, Paula Abdul and Ace of Base. I think First 100 People same things and have so many of the same ideas our parents were slightly horrified because we about the world. We have this band and we also Participants enjoy the 2012 EXPO. BTL photos: grew up with U2 and Bruce Springsteen, so we Andrew Potter share this culture and identity of being queer. Get In Free! were much more blue-collar than that. Then I can say all that now as an adult in my 30s, came dance music – as much as we were total when I’ve built a whole language for myself punkers and really into hardcore music, we Visit PrideSource.com around that identity – but when I was 15, 16, 17, were really into dance music, too. And then we I didn’t have any of that. In fact, I had no idea got into Nirvana and we’d go to raves on the if I was really gay or if Tegan was gay. I didn’t weekend. We were very confusing. (Laughs) understand any of that. I was astoundingly For Vendor Information Call Why didn’t a full-on pop album come before this confused and blind about what was really going one? Are you just at a point in your career where on, and there was lots of loneliness in that. you don’t really care what people think? Talking about feeling isolated within the 734-293-7200 ext. 15 queer community is so hard. It’s hard enough Sara: We’ve been around now for 13 years, and when you just sort of exist within a community you almost do stop caring what people think. and sometimes you feel like they’re actually not Presenting Sponsors: If anything, you try to stop caring because you representative of you or like that’s all you have. think to yourself, “We made some of our best It’s complex, and there was a time in my life music when we didn’t have an audience. We where I felt all of those things. It gets even more didn’t think anybody cared about us. So maybe complex when you are a public person and now it’s best to go back to when you’re trying to you represent both people. You feel sometimes excite yourself and the band, and ultimately there’s a burden there, and sometimes you feel people will gravitate toward that.” proud and other times you feel like everybody Tegan: I think we were self-conscious. We is mad at you because you’re not saying the didn’t think we could just jump right in, and things they would say. It’s complicated. I’m so glad we didn’t. I think we would’ve See Tegan and Sara, page 22 www.PrideSource.com February 14, 2013 | BTL 17 8 12 20 5 13 24 B 9 25 14 Cool Cities 21 16 18 1022 23 Royal Oak LGBT Non-Profits 7 Common Ground...... A 17 586-573-9932 3 6 Gay/Lesbian Educators Association Of Michigan...... * 19 11 586-573-9932 Higher Ground...... * 2 www.hghiv.org 1 15 26 Lambda Car Club...... * lccdetroit.org 4 Sing Out Detroit Chorus...... B www.singoutdetroit.com Steppin’ Out AIDS Walk Detroit...... * www.aidswalkdetroit.org A

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18 BTL | February 14, 2013 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com February 14, 2013 | BTL 19 Cool Cities Royal Oak

The OutField Cool Cities Royal Oak Philippe Kahn: A Role Model For All BY DAN WOOG YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD • YOUR MARKET He’s a true role model, showing that being gay is far As a volunteer assistant wrestling Pinpoint your ad dollars where coach, Philippe Kahn had an easy less important than being a strong wrestler, and an even relationship with the athletes at South “ they will do the most good . . . High School in Torrance, Cali. They stronger person. Advertise in the next Cool Cities respected his talents, but like teenagers TO PLACE AN AD CALL 734.293.7200 everywhere, they were wrapped up in their own lives. ” Occasionally though, they’d ask about There is little glamour, and plenty of Federation of Gay Games. Through his wrestling career. Where, for example, drudgery. Crowds are small. Friends and Dermody, Kahn learned of gay wrestling was he competing now? family members often treat wrestling organizations in Southern California, “I was honest,” Kahn says. “Still, I’d with disdain. “Why do you want to roll where he lived. fudge things. I’d say, ‘Cologne,’ instead around on a mat with another guy?” they He trained for the Gay Games with the of ‘The Gay Games in Cologne.’ But wonder – and ask aloud. Southbay Wrestling Academy, a straight kids aren’t stupid. They have access to Wrestlers are passionate. They love club. Their connection with South High Google. You can’t conceal something the sport’s intense physical and mental led to Kahn’s coaching career. like that.” demands, its one-on-one competition, the In the beginning, he was “standoffish” One day after practice, a freshman self-confidence it breeds. They revel in with the high school athletes. “It was still yelled across the crowded locker room: being part of a misunderstood minority. all about me,” he says. “I was training “Hey, coach. Are you gay?” They overcome their own doubts, and the and competing. I had my own baggage Kahn responded, “Sorry to disappoint questions of others. They learn to laugh about coaching kids. I worried about you, but I already have a boyfriend. when someone calls it a “gay sport.” things like the perceptions of other You’re out of luck.” In that, his South High charges were people.” Most wrestlers laughed, defusing the no different from Kahn. He discovered But the more time he spent with situation. Kahn followed up: “See you wrestling at age 12 in Florida, and was teenagers, the more he realized they tomorrow.” immediately hooked. “The intensity was didn’t care he was gay. And the more “No you won’t,” the ninth grader amazing,” he recalls. “I hadn’t done he worked with the South athletes, the replied. well in team sports. But I liked being on more he understood the unique role he The reason, Kahn learned later, was a wrestling team. At that age, that’s so could play. that the boy was leaving on vacation. At important.” He was a role model to the gay the moment though, his disappearance It was especially important because, wrestlers – without knowing who they seemed ominous. even then, Kahn knew he was gay. He were. Yet with 70 student-athletes in the “He was a smart kid. He was testing did not look or act “obviously” gay, he program, Kahn says, “the statistics say the limits,” Kahn says. says, so he was spared harassment. But they’re there.” The assistant coach was already out as a 140- and 145-pound high school He was a role model to the straight to the rest of the staff. “I’m upfront,” wrestler, he was deep in the closet. ones too. They ask Kahn questions about he explains. “I don’t lie, deny or The University of Florida did not life – college, relationships, etc. – that misrepresent who I am.” Some of the have intercollegiate wrestling, so have nothing to do with sexuality. He’s older wrestlers already knew too. They he competed on a club team. Kahn gratified by the respect they show him, didn’t care. graduated with a degree in journalism and inspired by their maturity. Part of their nonchalance was and telecommunications, then worked Philippe Kahn returns that trust and generational. Teenagers today – even as a news anchor at stations in Florida, respect. He’s a true role model, showing athletes – know far more about gay Oklahoma and Texas. that being gay is far less important than issues than their parents, even their Ad dollars dried up after 9/11, though, being a strong wrestler, and an even older siblings. They have LGBT friends. and after moving to California he became stronger person. They see out gay people on the news, a car salesman. He began with Mini On and off the mat. in the media, and (finally) the athletic Coopers; soon, he sold BMWs. Dan Woog is a journalist, educator, soccer world. To many teens, homosexuality is But Kahn never lost his love for a non-issue. wrestling. By then totally out of the coach and gay activist. His latest book is Part of the wrestlers’ ease with Kahn closet, he found Gene Dermody – the “We Kick Balls: True Stories from the Youth is because of their activity. Wrestling, founder of a gay wrestling club in San Soccer Wars.” He can be reached care of this the coach notes, is “a minority sport.” Francisco, and former president of the publication or at [email protected].

Accommodations • Accounting • Adoption Services • AIDS/HIV Hotlines • AIDS/HIV Organizations • Air Conditioning/Heating • Alzheimer's Association • Animal Shelter • Antiques • Apartments • Archives/Collections • Art MICHIGAN’S LGBT YELLOW PAGES Galleries • Art Studios • Artists • Athletics and Recreation • Attorneys • Auto Collision • Auto/Dealer • Auto/Detailing • Auto/Repair • Bakeries • Banks • Banquet Hall/Catering • Bars/Clubs/Discos • Bath Remodeling • Bicycles • Blinds2012 / 2013 • B ookstores ONLINE • &Builders IN PRINT • Business Developmenthttp:// Agency • wwwCable Television.pridesource Provider • Campus; Student and.com/direc Alumni Groups • Cancer Supportoryt Groups.html • Carpet Cleaning • Carpeting & Rugs • Casino • Catering • Chiropractors • Chocolates • Chorus • Clothing • Coffee Shop • Commitment Ceremonies • Community Centers • Computer Services • Concert/Music • Concrete • Concrete/Decorative • Construction/Builders • Counseling • Counseling Education • Countertops • Credit Union • Cruise Planners • Dance Studio • Decks • Dentists • Dermatology • Drapery • Electricians • Entertainment Agency • Erotica • Event Planners • Families and Parents • Farmers Market • Fertility Services • Festival Production • Financial Services • Flooring • Florists/Floral Design • Foundations and Funders • Framing • Funeral Services • Furniture • Gift Shops • Grocers • Hair Cutting & Styling • Hair Restoration • Handyman • Head Shop • Health & BeautyMichig • Heating & Cooling • Homean’s Care Services LGBT • Home Improvement Y • Homeello Inspectorsw • Hospita Pls • Hotlinesages & Switchboards • Insurance • Invitations • Jewelers • Kitchen Cabinets • Kitchen Remodeling • Lamps/Lighting • Landscape Supplies • Landscaping/Nurseries • Leather Gear • Legal Organizations • Limousines • Linens • Massage Therapy • Massage Therapy School • Mediation • Moving Companies • Museums • Music Groups • Nationalin Organizations Print • Opera C ompanory • OptometristsFully • P artySear Planning • Pachabletio Furniture • Personal ChOnline!!!ef Services • Personal Trainer • Pet Adoption • Pet Boarding • Pet Day Care • Pet Grooming • Pet Supplies • Pet Training • Pharmacy • Photo Booth • Photography • Physicians • Physicians/Gynecology & Obstetrics • Plastic Surgery • Plumbing • Podiatrists • Political Organizations • Pools & Spas • Printing • Professional

OrganizationsFROM THE PUBLISHERS •OF Psychics • Publications • Real Estate Appraiser • Real Estate/Agent • Religious & Spiritual • Renewable energy • Rental Service • Restaurants • Rodeo • Roofing • Senior Living • Siding • Skin Care • Social/Community PrideSource.com Over 1000 LGBT Owned and Friendly Businesses and Non-Profit Organizations Organizations • Solar Energy • Spas • Sports • Substance Abuse • Symphony Orchestra • T-Shirts • Tai Chi • Tax Planning • Tax Planning/Preparation • Television • Theaters • Transgender Groups/Services • Travel • Tuxedo & Dress

20 BTL | February 14, 2013 www.PrideSource.com Cool Cities Royal Oak

Be included in our Royal Oak Cool Cities Pages Call us today: 734-293--7200 x13

www.PrideSource.com February 14, 2013 | BTL 21 is projecting an image of heteronormativity all ® Tegan and Sara the time, and you’re thinking, “I’m not like that. Continued from p. 17 I don’t behave like that.” Tegan: Being a twin, because we didn’t Is it a double-edged sword to talk about being come out until we were almost out of high lesbians because you care about the gay rights school. I didn’t feel weird about being gay, movement but also because you just want to because we had gay friends and we had a be musicians? really alternative group of friends and my mom was a social worker. Being a twin and Tegan: I won’t deny that there have been just always being grouped together – always times in the last 12 years that I wish we never having to share the same stories, the same said we were gay. It overshadows the music, friends, everything – it was so hard. That was for sure. But honestly, and without coming way harder. off cheesy, every single day right now it feels like I run into someone who tells me a story If you’re having a disagreement in the studio, about them or someone they know or their who wins that battle? kids where they found comfort in that we’re Tegan: It depends on who wrote the song. different and we’re outspoken, whether it’s If it’s Sara’s song and she disagrees with because we’re gay or because we’re women me, she ultimately has veto power – which or because we have funny haircuts. (Laughs) is annoying, because a lot of times I’m There seems to be people finding incredible right. (Laughs) comfort and inspiration and empowerment in who we are. We’ve had people be like, “Oh, Sara: We’re fairly democratic in the studio. they’re gay” or “Oh, that’s gay music” or “I We’ve never really had a huge blowout over don’t like gay people,” but we gain so much a decision about a song in the studio. We’ve from being out that it kind of neutralizes that. had blowouts about a lot of things, but it’s not Like, I don’t care. There have been moments usually like, “Hey, I think this guitar should where it’s been dark, where someone is really be like this.” homophobic, and I just wanna, like, run away What’s your biggest pet peeve about each other? and hide. Instead I just pick up a 2-by-4, metaphorically speaking, and bash through it Sara: She’s incredibly stubborn, and there’s and keep getting up on stage and being proud this impulsive go-for-it attitude – and of who we are. sometimes that drives me crazy when it seems I know so many people who are closeted, like it’s going against me. But when it’s in and I make fun of them. I’m like, “You’re so terms of bringing us to the next level, I love ridiculous. What career are you protecting? that confidence and bold-headed stubbornness. You’re supposed to be selling your art. That’s when I think, “Yes, go for it” – as long as You’re supposed to be projecting this image, it’s not directed at me! (Laughs) and you’re just clouding your image because Tegan: It would take me 24 hours to tell you are not proud of who you are.” You have you all my pet peeves. We’ve been doing a to be proud. In the end, who cares if I was lot of vocal work – lots of warming up and cool or not. Did I make change? Did I help warming down – but she doesn’t warm up the world? That should be more important. and warm down in her space or on her time; she does it right in the middle of the dressing What’s more challenging: growing up gay or a twin? room while we’re trying to talk before we go Sara: I would say being gay. I had no other on stage. It makes me wanna tackle her. experience to compare it to. I always had a best friend. I always felt like I had someone who was Have you tackled her? someone I could check in with. We always had Tegan: When we were young. I haven’t each other. But I think being gay is so complex physically attacked her in probably, like, 15 and I felt incredibly isolated in that, in not years. (Laughs) understanding my identity. The world at large 22 BTL | February 14, 2013 www.PrideSource.com Hear Me Out BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI Lisa Loeb, Justin Bieber nimble flow when he takes on the Big Sean part. “Boyfriend,” paired with just some gentle strumming, is pretty damn sexy as it slinks about into an almost hypnotic state. It actually almost works better than the original, and not just because it sounds like Bieber is right there, singing to you. Two of the three new “acoustic” songs aren’t bad (“I Would,” a pick-me-up, doesn’t follow the acoustic theme), but “Nothing Like Us” is a clear standout – one of his most tender confessionals and a song that could really only be about one person: Selena Gomez. He wrote it, and it’s just piano and his sad, sad voice. If Biebs hadn’t already proved that he’s growing up with the original “Believe” release, he does so here, in just a few minutes of ripened woe. Which answers a very important question: He must be getting hair down there. Grade: B- Also Out Emmy Rossum, ‘Sentimental Journey’ With the release of her 2007 debut, singer-actress Emmy Rossum Lisa Loeb, ‘No Fairy Tale’ written by Tegan and Sara, isn’t bad, but you can’t help imagining what the twins seemed ready to turn pop music on its Lisa Loeb will forever be defined as an head. Her old soul, though, had different artist of a bygone decade. (Boy, reality does could’ve done with this on their own. The title track almost has enough edge to plans. Six years later and the “Shameless” bite.) But it’s not like she doesn’t already actress is slipping back to the mid-1900s, know this; “The ’90s” is a hand-clappy/ sound like a good Green Day song, and the heartfelt apology “Ami, I’m Sorry” is capturing the vintage sounds of cabaret, ooh-ooh pop song off her seventh studio ragtime and Broadway for this DIY classic- album that fondly reminisces on her career- a throwback to her girl-with-guitar days. Those days when her life was a fairy tale. covers concept album. It’s a direction that high – when the ubiquitous “Stay (I Missed fits Rossum’s refined opera-trained voice; You)” became an MTV mainstay – and And it was, but even princesses can’t be pretty forever. Grade: C- “I’ll Be With You in Apple Blossom Time” also asserts that she’s ready to move on is an understated beauty, and her exquisite from those glory days. “Sure, I liked it then, “Autumn Leaves” could fool people into but I don’t want to go back,” she sings, Justin Bieber, thinking it’s the ’50s all over again. suggesting that popularity is overrated and ‘Believe Acoustic’ that this project is a new start for the singer- Justin Bieber’s not songwriter. Because it’s her first album of Swing Out Sister, just stripping down ‘Private View’ non-children’s music since 2004’s “The to his boxer briefs Way It Really Is,” it is. Otherwise, this is like he recently Andy Connell and the same geeky girl singing the same girly did in Miami. The Corinne Drewery song. Produced by Loeb and New Found 18-year-old’s getting sonically naked on know how to Glory’s Chad Gilbert, “No Fairy Tale” this set of acoustic tracks from “Believe,” go all out for an revels in pure ’90s nostalgia (so much for his grown-up third studio album released anniversary. They leaving that decade behind). It’s also a sad last year. This lo-fi vibe might show off mark 25 years in music – their debut, reminder as to why “Stay” was Loeb’s his passionately maturing voice, but, “It’s Better to Travel,” dropped in 1987 only major hit. The songs are stuck in retro without a surging dance beat to distract – with a true must-have for fans of the mode, sounding like half-baked demos you, it also spotlights the silliness of his chill-pop duo: a package that includes a with elementary arrangements and just still-boy lyrics. I mean, did we really need CD of reimagined classics and rare gems, a few grabby hooks; not to mention, her an acoustic guitar version of “Beauty and an all-access live-concert DVD and a writing – seemingly culled from somewhat a Beat,” sans Nicki Minaj? Hasn’t the glossy photo book. The “Fabulous Party cleaned-up diary entries – is void of any world suffered enough? “As Long As You Mix” handle on one of their biggest hits, soul and spirit. Some of it is truly dreadful Love Me” would seem just as ridiculous “Breakout,” is a sly bit of sarcasm: In its (read: “It’s OK to show them that you’re – seriously, some of those come-ons are reincarnation, the song is a jazzy living- well ... if they can’t take it, they can go to straight-up cheese – if it weren’t for his room version of the celebratory original. hell”). “A Hot Moment,” one of two songs Cheers to that – and to another 25 years. www.PrideSource.com February 14, 2013 | BTL 23 Polyamory Network 7:30 p.m. Open Detroit Symphony Orchestra “Beethoven’s 2980. RoyalOakMusicTheatre.com and inclusive community of people Ninth” Beethoven’s Selections from the living polyamorously, people interested Creatures of Prometheus and Symphony The Ark “My Folky Valentine” With Annie & in polyamory and people of, friendly to No.9 , Choral. Tickets: $15. Max M. Fisher Rod Capps and more. Tickets: $15. The Ark, Happenings and curious about polyamory. Welcomes Music Center, 3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. Feb. 14. diversity of sexual orientation and Feb. 21 - Feb. 24. 313-576-5111. DSO.org 734-761-1800. TheArk.org St., Ann Arbor. [email protected] Wild Wednesday 6 p.m. A group gender identity. Meets the third Thursday The Ark “Suzanne Vega” Tickets: $40. The Pflagaa.org for youth ages 12-18 interested in of every month. Polyamory Network, 319 Lansing Symphony Orchestra “Chamber Series: Tuba and “Bones!”” Featuring works Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. Feb. OUTINGS hanging out with other kind and Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-995-9867. 23. 734-761-1800. TheArk.org 2 p.m. Midland, PFLAG Tri-Cities Meeting supportive youth in a safe environment. jimtoycenter.org by Dvorak and Faure on trombone, tuba, Thursday, Feb. 14 Bay City and Saginaw area PFLAG. Meets Dedicated to Make a Change, 319 euphonium and piano. Tickets: $10-15. The Ark “Brian Vander Ark & Pat McGee” the third Sunday of every month. Offering Molly Grove Chapel, 510 W. Ottawa St., Free HIV Testing 5 p.m. Free, anonymous Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-657-1792. Tickets: $20. The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann support, education and advocacy for LGBT Friday, Feb. 22 Lansing. 3 p.m. Feb. 17. 517-487-5001. HIV testing is available at S3 Safe Sex Store [email protected] Arbor. 8 p.m. Feb. 20. 734-761-1800. individuals and families with group and Polyqueer Womens Group 7 p.m. LansingSymphony.org every other Thursday until 9 p.m. Testing is Dedicatedtomakeachange.com TheArk.org monthly speaker at each meeting. PFLAG Open meeting to lesbian, bisexual performed by HARC staff. Call to schedule Tri-Cities, 2525 Hemmeter Road, Saginaw . JGN Open Board Meeting 7 p.m. Jewish and transgendered women who are Wharton Center for the Performing Arts an appointment, but walk-ins are more than CONCERTS 989-941-1458. Pflag-mbs.org Gay Network, 6600 W. Maple Road, West polyamorous or curious about women- “Ladysmith Black Mambazo” For over welcome. S3 Safe Sex Store and HIVAIDS Caesars Windsor “Paul Anka” One of the Bloomfield. 248-432-5661. JGNMI.org centered polyamory. Meets the last Friday forty years, the voices of Ladysmith Black Resource Center, 1209 S. University, Ann most popular teen idols of the late ‘50s Conversation Station 5 p.m. Discussion of the month. Jim Toy Community Center, Mambazo have blended the intricate rhythms Arbor. 734-741-1434. [email protected] and an accomplished Juno award-winning Group with facilitator. LGBTQI (and allies) Transgender SOS 7 p.m. A safe space 319 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-995-9867. and harmonies of their native South African S3safesexstore.com singer, Anka is known for his hit songs “Put 35 and over, join GOAL each week for for spouses, partners, family and [email protected] JimToyCenter.org musical traditions with the sounds and discussion, food and fun. Topic: What friends of transgender people. Ages Your Head on My Shoulder” and “Having my Men’s Film Group 7 p.m. Meets every sentiments of Christian gospel music. The would you do illegally if you know you 18 and up. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Womyn’s Film Night 7 p.m. Film: North Baby”. His incredible songwriting skills have Thursday at Affirmations. Affirmations, 290 result is a musical and spiritual mix that would not get caught? Get Out And Live!, Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. Country; Based on an inspiring real-life allowed him to collaborate with a variety of W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. touches a worldwide audience. Tickets: 714 S. Washington St., Royal Oak. 248- Goaffirmations.org event that took place in the 1970s, North music’s biggest stars including Frank Sinatra, Goaffirmations.org $25-38. Wharton Center for the Performing 981-4227. [email protected] Country stars Charlize Theron in another Patti LaBelle and Celine Dion. Rock Swings, P.L.U.S. Youth Group 9 p.m. For Middle one of his most recent albums, made Top Arts, Michigan State University, 750 E. Shaw Resource Center Health Group 7 p.m. GetOutAndLive.me low-glamour but high-impact role as Lane, East Lansing. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 20. and High school age youth who enjoy Josey Aimes, one of only a handful 10 in the UK and hit No. 2 on Billboard’s Top LGBTQ and allied teens 13-18. E-mail for socializing with people their own age, 800-WHARTON. WhartonCenter.com more info. Kalamazoo Gay and Lesbian Monday, Feb. 18 of women working in the Minnesota Jazz Albums chart, proof that Anka is widely going through the same issues as they. iron mines. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine appreciated for both his new music and his Resource Center, 629 Pioneer St., 7 p.m. LGBT Choral FILM & VIDEO One Voice Chorus Meets every Wednesday. The Lesbian Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. classic hits. Tickets: $45+. Caesars Windsor, Kalamazoo. 259-381-2437. Youth@KGLRC. group. Meets every Monday. Affirmations, and Gay Community Network, 343 Atlas Flint Institute of Arts “Trishna” Freida org Kglrc.org Goaffirmations.org/ 377 E. Riverside Dr., Windsor. 9 p.m. Feb. 16. 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398- Ave. SE, Grand Rapids. 616-458-3511. 800-991-7777. CaesarsWindsor.com Pinto, best known for Slumdog Millionaire, 7105. Goaffirmations.org Grlgbt.org/calendar/ stars in a visually stunning drama, derived Friday, Feb. 15 from Thomas Hardy’s classic novel Tess of Sexual Compulsives Anonymous 7 p.m. the d’Urbervilles, about the son of a British Love Hangover 6 p.m. Affirmations Youth A weekly anonymous 12 step group for Program transforms into club ICE for a property developer and the daughter of those who are facing sexually compulsive an auto rickshaw owner from India. Flint Love Hangover party. Open exclusively to behaviors. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine youth under 21 for dancing, hanging out Institute of Arts, 1120 E. Kearsley St., Flint. Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. Feb. 15 - Feb. 17. Flintarts.org and meeting new friends. Non-alcoholic GoAffirmations.org beverages provided. Club ICE, 290 W. The Detroit Institute of Arts “2013 Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. Editor’s Pick Tuesday, Feb. 19 Academy Award Nominated Short Films” A Goaffirmations.org ticket to a satisfying banquet of this year’s PFLAG Family Reunion Detroit Chapter 7 Webster’s Dictionary defines a “rabbit hole” Annual Valentine’s Dance 7 p.m. To Oscar nominated animated and live-action p.m. PFLAG Family Reunion Detroit Chapter as “a bizarre or difficult state or situation.” In shorts - as well as an opportunity to predict benefit the GLBT Scholarship Fund. Music, for People of Color meets the third Tuesday dancing, open bar, family style dinner, playwright David Lindsay-Abaire’s “Rabbit Hole,” the winners before the Oscars are handed of every month. Provides a safe space for out. Detroit Film Theater, 5200 Woodward dessert, silent auction, 50/50 raffle. Tickets: those who are dealing with the joys and opening Feb. 15 at the Farmington Players Barn $50 in advance, $55 at the door. The Forum Ave, Detroit. Feb. 1 - Feb. 17. 313-833- challenges related to the coming out process Theater, a couple struggles to put their lives back 7900. DIA.org Foundation, 26601 Ryan Road, Warren. 248- of their family members. All are welcome, 573-9932. TheForumFoundation.org but this chapter specifically focuses on together after the accidental death of their child. Bisexual Peer Group 7 p.m. Our group people of color in the City of Detroit and the As they battle to return to “normal” and reunite close surrounding suburbs. PFLAG Family meets monthly on the third Friday & as a couple, each copes with the tragedy in very different and often conflicting ways. THEATER discussion relates to bisexual identity. Reunion Detroit Chapter, 7707 West Outer Dr., Detroit. 313-286-8572. Info@pflag-fr- Building is handicap accessible using ramp While the play is a poignant drama about loss and reconciliation, it is not about the death of CIVIC/COMMUNITY THEATER to rear entrance. Bisexual Peer Group, 319 detroit.org Pflag-fr-detroit.org A Catered Affair - A New Musical A 2nd Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-678-2478. St Mary’s Lesbian and Gay Outreach a child, according to director Brian Tupper. Instead, he says it explores “the way the parents Stage production. $16. Stagecrafters at [email protected] Facebook.com/ Ministry 7 p.m. Affirming ministry teaching and loved ones grieve the loss. It’s an examination of the healing process for those whose Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. Lafayette Ave., Royal groups/110918256984/ LGBT Catholics to reconcile faith with life carries on.” Oak. Feb. 22 - March 10. 248-541-6430. Womyn’s Film Night 7 p.m. Film: The Black orientation. A safe space for discussion and Stagecrafters.org American Experience: Famous Human prayer. Meets the third Tuesday of every “Rabbit Hole” runs Feb. 15 to March 2 at the Barn Theater, 32332 W. 12 Mile Road, in A Song for Coretta $5-10. Center Stage Rights Crusaders; Two women who stepped month. St. Mary’s Student Parish, 331 Jackson at Kiesel Auditorium at Middle up and spoke out against injustice are the Thompson St., Ann Arbor. [email protected] Farmington Hills. Tickets ($4-$16) are available at the box office at 248-553-2955. School at Parkside, 2400 Fourth St., inspirational subjects of this installment in Transgender Life Support 7 p.m. Offering Jackson. Feb. 15 - 24. 517-414-8652. the series that celebrates the achievements support, education, resources and a social CenterStageJackson.org of prominent black men and women in structure for Transgender individuals. Cinderella, Kids $5-20. The Croswell Opera American history. Affirmations, 290 W. Facilitated by Arlene Kish, Lorraine Brown, Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. Caesars Windsor “Matchbox Twenty” House, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian. Through Jessica Manko, Tracy Hoover, Marty Howland Feb. 17. 517-264-SHOW. Croswell.org Goaffirmations.org/ and Colt F. Mclssac. Affirmations, 290 W. Thursday, Feb. 21 Saturday, Feb. 23 Touring in support of their first new Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. Free HIV Testing with S3 and HARC LezRead 4 p.m. Ann Arbors book group record in 5 years, North features the Hilarious Chekhov: The Bear and The Saturday, Feb. 16 Transgenderlifesupport.org 5 p.m. Free and confidential HIV testing for Lesbians. Meets the last Saturday of hit single “She’s So Mean.” Matchbox Proposal $12. Ann Arbor Civic Theatre at Unstuck: Reviving the Movement for provided by HIVA/IDS Resource Center at every month. LezReads, 319 Braun Ct., Ann Twenty’s music has become a staple A2CT Studio Theatre, 322 W. Ann St., Ann A2 TNG (Next Generation of Kinkster) S3 Safe Sex Store. Call ahead to schedule Arbor. 734-995-9867. [email protected] of modern rock, adult alternative Arbor. Feb. 15 - 17. 734-971-2228. a2ct.org Social Justice, Human Dignity and the 7:45 p.m. A kink and fetish oriented group Environment 12 p.m. The gathering will an appointment, or simply walk-in. LezRead.com and top-40 radio alike, thanks to for younger kinksters. The group focuses Appointments take approximately 20-30 their successful blend of classic and Rabbit Hole $14-16. Farmington Players, bring together activist, academic, and Masquerade Brawl 6 p.m. Extend your on support, the sharing of information in the minutes. Testing is provided the first and alternative rock sounds. Tickets: $55+. 32332 W. 12 Mile Road, Farmington faith-based communities for a public Mardi Gras and Carnival festivities with the form of demonstrations or discussion groups third Thursday of the month at S3. S3 Safe Caesars Windsor, 377 E. Riverside Dr., Hills. Feb. 15 - March 2. 248-553-2955. conversation on how to successfully address Mitten Mavens and Cap City Wild Childs at and socializing. Meets on the third Tuesday Sex Store and HIVAIDS Resource Center, Windsor. 8 p.m. Feb. 21. 800-991-7777. FarmingtonPlayers.org the profound challenges of growing social the Masquerade Brawl Doubleheader Bout. of every month. A2 TNG, 319 Braun Ct., Ann 1209 S. University, Ann Arbor. 734-741- CaesarsWindsor.com inequality, mass incarceration, sustainable Mitten Mavens Lansing Roller Derby, 7977 Shakespeare in Hollywood $11-12. The Arbor. 734-678-2478. JimToyCenter.org 1434. S3safesexstore.com economic development, global warming, Centerline Dr., Dimondale. Mittenmavens.net Gospelfest “Gospelfest” Mass choir Twin City Players, 600 W. Glenlord Road, St. and a culture that still struggles to embrace Gender Non-Conformists 7 p.m. A social workshop at 11:30, culminating with the Joseph. Through Feb. 17. 269-429-0400. Spring Fling Dance 9 p.m. A sober dance to difference. The influential social critic Dr. Wednesday, Feb. 20 and discussion group for transgender, evening program, free and open to the TwinCityPlayers.org in anticipation of spring and to benefit TWC, Cornel West and internationally renowned Senior Koffee Klatch 1 p.m. A lively, genderqueer, genderneutral and public. Pot-luck snacks in the afternoon. an AA/Al-Anon conference in the spring. Sleuth $8-14. Riverwalk Theatre, 228 preacher, The Rev. James Forbes, will discussion and social group for LGBT gender-exploring individuals. Space also Black attire encouraged for the concert. Suggested donation $5, coffee & snacks are Museum Dr., Lansing. Feb. 14 - 24. 517- be the keynote speaker along side UAW adults over 45. Group covers topics available to significant others. Meets Bethlehem United Church of Christ, 423 free, soda $1. Together We Can, 6633 Stoney 482-5700. Riverwalktheatre.com President Bob King, The Rev. Selma Massey, pertaining to aging and outside speakers. every Thursday. Affirmations, 290 W. S. Fourth Ave., Ann Arbor. Feb. 23 - Feb. Creek Road, Ypsilanti. 248.838.9905. Twc@ Prof. Bunyan Bryant, human rights lawyer Potluck dinners at members homes, Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398- 23. 734-316-2107. A2gospelfest.com The Complete Works of William twcdetroit.com twcdetroit.com Deborah Labelle, Prof. Ahmad Rahman, lunches out and holiday parties. Meets 7105. [email protected] Shakespeare (abridged) $17-19. Spotlight Prof. Mary Summers and others. Ann Arbor ever Wednesday on the upper level of GoAffirmations.org Royal Oak Music Theatre “Jim Players at The Village Theater at Cherry Hill, Faith Groups, 603 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor. the Affirmations building. Senior Koffee Jefferies” Tickets: $29.50. Royal Oak 50400 Cherry Hill Road, Canton. Feb. 15 - 24. Brownpapertickets.com/event/304212 Klatch, 290 W. Road Mile Road, Ferndale. Livingston County PFLAG Meeting 7 Music Theatre, 318 W. Fourth St., Royal 734-394-5300. SpotLightPlayersMi.org 586-573-9932. GoAffirmations.org p.m. Meets the third Thursday of every MUSIC & MORE Oak. 8 p.m. Feb. 15. 248-399-2980. Sunday, Feb. 17 month. Please park behind the church, RoyalOakMusicTheatre.com COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY THEATER Co-Gender Rap Discussion 6 p.m. Light use the handicapped entrance, and follow CLASSICAL PFLAG Ann Arbor Meeting 2 p.m. Third refreshments and good fellowship between the signs to Room 127. All are welcome! Detroit Symphony Orchestra “Beethoven Royal Oak Music Theatre “Ghost Communicating Doors $5-20. The Sunday of every month. Attendees may park men and women, young and seasoned. Livingston County PFLAG, 400 E. Grand Symphonies: 2 & 7” Beethoven’s Overture Hunters Live!” With Jason Hawes and University Theatre at Williams Theatre , in the back of St. Andrews Episcopal Church. Meets every third Wednesday of the month. River Ave., Brighton. 517-548-0839. to Coriolan, Symphony No. 2 and No. 7. Steve Gonsalves. Tickets: $35. Royal Gilmore Theatre Complex, Western Michigan Support group and monthly speaker at each Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile Road, [email protected] Facebook. Tickets: $15. Max M. Fisher Music Center, Oak Music Theatre, 318 W. Fourth St., University, Kalamazoo. Through Feb. 17. 269- meeting. PFLAG Ann Arbor, 306 N. Division Ferndale. 248-398-7105. Goaffirmations.org com/pages/Livingston-County-PFLAG 3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Feb. 15 - Feb. Royal Oak. 8 p.m. Feb. 22. 248-399- 387-07222. WMUTheatre.com 16. 313-576-5111. DSO.org See Happenings, page 27 24 BTL | February 14, 2013 www.PrideSource.com Detroit Mercy Theatre’s ‘Wings’ Soars

BY JOHN QUINN

“Don’t it always seem to go, that you don’t know what you’ve got ‘til it’s gone.” Joni Mitchell sang that line in “Big Yellow Taxi.” Few things will hammer her observation home like the sudden onset of debilitation. In Arthur Kopit’s poetic “Wings,” stroke victim Emily Stilson ponders what’s gone – independence, communication, fundamental balance. Balance is key to understanding Emily’s struggle with panic and paranoia in this compelling one act, performed by The University of Detroit Mercy Theatre Company. Emily had been a daredevil, a “wing walker,” performing death-defying stunts on the upper wing of a biplane. The stroke paralyzes her right side and damages her speech center. Confined in a wheel chair, Emily has also developed “aphasia.” She has lost the linkage between thought and speech. Her frustrating attempts to talk to her rehabilitation experts result in gibberish. Can she, to crib another line from pop music, “take these broken wings and learn to fly” – again? Although “Wings” made Kopit a Pulitzer Prize finalist and garnered a Tony nomination in 1978, originally it was a radio play for the NPR drama project, “Earplay.” That context Melissa Beckwith gives a striking performance in “Wings.” Photo: Greg Grobis illuminates this production’s staging. Melinda Pasha’s scenic PREVIEW paramount in defining character. Given design is stark, an empty stage upon how pivotal Emily Stilson is, this is the which set pieces appear only when Wings opportunity for the supporting players needed. It is backed by a reflective University of Detroit Mercy Theatre to give us some unique characters. screen that reflects Rudy Schuepbach’s Company at Marygrove College Theatre, They need only follow the lead of the somber mood lighting. The intimate 8425 W. McNichols Road, Detroit. 8 p.m. admirable Dr. Arthur J. Beer. In what Friday-Saturday & 2 p.m. Sunday through scenes are played in pools of light, amounts to a cameo as Mr. Brownstein, and the focus is literally on Emily, Feb. 17. 80 minutes; no intermission. $10- he projects a fully developed character since she is onstage for almost the 20. 313-993-3270. entire show. Also noteworthy is sound http://Theatre.UDMercy.edu while working under the burden of an designer Mathew Lira’s contribution. assumed speech impediment. Beckwith Not only is Emily’s experience sparked expression and convincing delivery of and Beer, along with Joel Frazee, turn by random noises and fragments of the verbal nonsense that is all Emily a long scene of speech therapy into a music, the sound track reflects her inner has left. gentle comic gem. monologue, which is so different from Her performance is striking. “Wings” is a thought-provoking The Theatre Company provides what she can articulate. theatrical event, contemplation on the It takes a rare actor to pull this drama students with the opportunity strength of the human spirit. In the end, complex performance together, and to work with professional directors and director David L. Regal turned to associate guest artists. It’s an advantage the message is not, “be thankful for associate guest artist Melissa Beckwith. that should be seized for all it’s worth. what you’ve got,” but “where there’s Without gesture or blocking available, Because this was originally a radio play, a will, there’s a way.” That’s not a bad she conveys emotion by subtle scenes are justifiably static and voice is lesson to take away from the theater. www.PrideSource.com February 14, 2013 | BTL 25 Classifieds 101-ANNOUNCEMNTS 101-ANNOUNCEMNTS LGBT AA MEETINGS LGBT AL-ANON MEETINGS Ann Arbor-Friday 7:30 pm, St. Andrews Episcopal Diversity Wednesday Al- ! Church Gay AA, 306 N. Division Anon Family Group St. Closed/Discussion. Wednesday 8pm Detroit-Tuesday / Friday St. Luke’s Parrish Hall (in basement) classifieds 8:00 pm, Downtown Gay AA, com/ Lewiston & Livernois, Ferndale MI Fort Street Presbyterian Church, your ad here 631 West Fort St. Closed/ Closed Meeting Discussion (Open 1st Friday of every month). Go After Your Serenity visit: pridesource. (G.A.Y.S.) Farmington Hills- Al-Anon Family Group call: 734-293-7200 ex 15 Monday Saturday’s 8pm 8:00 pm, Suburban West Gay Drayton Ave. Presbyterian Church AA, Universalist Unitarian Church, (in basement) 25301 Halstead (Between 10 & 11 Pinecrest & Drayton, Ferndale Mile Roads) Closed / Discussion. Closed Meeting Ferndale-Monday / Wednesday / Friday 113 11:30 a.m., Brown Baggers Gay ANNOUNCEMENTS - AA, Affirmations, 290 West 9 Mile Rd. Closed/Discussion. OPPORTUNITIES Visit our website! Ferndale-Wednesday http://www.pridesource.com 8 p.m., Diversity Wednesday Gay Actors Wanted for AA, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Adodi Detroit Add our fan page! 540 W. Lewiston @ Livernois. Looking for black male actors/ Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” Closed/Discussion. singers ages 18-60, for, Fighting Ferndale-Saturday Words, a gay themed program Follow us! to be presented at the Adodi Spring Retreat in April. 1-810- @YourBTL 1 p.m. Brown Baggers Gay AA, Affirmations, 290 West 9 Mile Rd. 348-6098 Ask for Sidney Closed/Discussion. 8 p.m. Go After Your Sobriety Gay 428 PROF. SERVICES AA, Drayton Ave Presbyterian Church, 2441 Pinecrest. Closed/ - MASSAGE Discussion. Livonia-Friday GROUP MASSAGE 8 p.m., West Side Story’s Gay - For Gay and Bisexual AA, Providence Medical Center, Men. Learn some massage 7 Mile & Newburgh. Closed/ techniques and meet others in Discussion. a safe and caring environment. Tuesdays and Saturdays at Warren-Monday 8 p.m. Thursdays at 2 p.m. 7:30 p.m., Eastside Serenity Gay $10 per session. 209 West AA, Odd Fellow’s Hall, 830 S Kingsley in downtown Ann Monroe St Closed/Discussion. Arbor. 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26 BTL | February 14, 2013 www.PrideSource.com Editor’s Pick Here’s your ticket to a satisfying banquet of this year’s Oscar nominated shorts – in both the animated and live-action categories – as well as your opportunity to predict the winners before the Oscars are handed out on Feb. 24. The short-film nominees are traditionally among the year’s most creative and surprising films of any kind, yet they’re also the most difficult to find. This month, the Detroit Institute of Arts presents them in one eye-popping program, with a brief intermission between the animated and live-action categories. The animated portion of this year’s program (shown first) is relatively family-friendly, though the live-action shorts are recommended for ages 17 and up. This year’s total running time is approximately three hours and ten minutes. Nominated films include “Maggie Simpson in ‘The Longest Daycare,’” “Adam & Dog,” “Paperman,” “Death of a Shadow” and several more. Tickets are available for Feb. 15, 16 and 17 and advance tickets are highly recommended. For more information go to www.DIA.org

Next to Normal Previews Feb. 13-15 ($25- Theatre, 8425 W. McNichols Road, Detroit. ® Happenings $31). $31-$40. Meadow Brook Theatre, Through Feb. 17. 313-993-3270. Theatre. Continued from p. 24 2200 N. Squirrel Rd., Rochester. Feb. 13 - UDMercy.edu March 10. 248-377-3300. mbtheatre.com The Arabian Nights $12-15. Bonstelle Passing $16-26. The Berman Center for Theatre, 3424 Woodward Ave., Detroit. the Performing Arts, 6600 W. Maple Road, Through Feb. 17. 313-577-2960. West Bloomfield. Feb. 21 - 24. 248-661- ART ‘N’ AROUND Bonstelle.com 1900. theberman.org Charles H. Wright Museum “Visions of Our 44th President” 315 E. Warren, The Laramie Project U-M Dept. of Musical Rain $30-70. Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward Detroit. Nov. 1 - April 30. 313-494-5853. Theatre Studio Production at Arthur Miller Ave., Detroit. 8 p.m. Feb. 23. 313-471-6611. Thewright.org Theatre, 1226 Murfin, Ann Arbor. Feb. 21 - Olympiaentertainment.com 24. 734-764-2538. tickets.music.umich.edu Cranbrook Art Museum “From Here Rock of Ages $25-65. The Whiting, 1241 to There: Alec Soth’s America” 39221 Urinetown: The Musical $7-15. Eastern E. Kearsley St., Flint. Feb. 20 - Feb. 21. 810- Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills. Michigan University Theatre at Quirk Theatre 237-8689. TheWhiting.com Nov. 17 - March 30. 877-462-7262. in the Quirk Dramatic Arts Building, East CranbrookArtMuseum.org Circle and Best Hall, Ypsilanti. Feb. 15 - 24. Show and Tell $15. Puzzle Piece Theatre 734-487-2282. Mtishows.com/show_detail. at Russell Industrial Center, 1600 Clay St., Cranbrook Art Museum “Soo Sunny asp?showid=000280 Detroit. Through Feb. 24. 313-303-8019. Park: Vapor Slide” 39221 Woodward Ave., PuzzleStage.org Bloomfield Hills. Nov. 17 - March 17. 877- 462-7262. CranbrookArtMuseum.org PROFESSIONAL Sister Act $32+. Wharton Center for the Drumline Live $20-45. Macomb Center for Performing Arts, 750 E. Shaw Lane, East Detroit Institute of Arts “Motor City the Performing Arts, 44575 Garfield Road, Lansing. Feb. 12 - 17. 800-WHARTON. Muse: Detroit Photographs, Then and Clinton Township. Feb. 16. 586-286-2222. WhartonCenter.com Now” 2100 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Jan. MacombCenter.com 1 - June 16. 313-833-7900. DIA.org Soul Mates $15-$18. Magenta Giraffe End Days $15-22. Williamston Theatre, 122 Theatre Company at The Abreact Flint Institute of Arts “Winfred Rembert: S. Putnam Road, Williamston. Through Feb. Performance Space, 1301 W. Lafayette Amazing Grace” 1120 E. Kearsley St., 24. 517-655-SHOW. WilliamstonTheatre.org #113, Detroit. Through Feb. 24. 313-408- Flint. Jan. 27 - March 17. Flintarts.org 7269. MagentaGiraffe.org Fela! $30-100. Music Hall Center for the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts “Stoked: Performing Arts, 350 Madison, Detroit. Feb. State of Emergency Free. Shop Floor Five Artists of Fire and Clay” 314 S. Park 12 - 17. 313-887-8501. MusicHall.org Theatre Company at Beecher High School St., Kalamazoo. Jan. 20 - April 7. 269- Randall Coates Auditorium, 1020 W. 349-7775. KIArts.org Good People Previews Feb. 21-24 & 28 Coldwater Road, Flint. 1:30 p.m. Feb. 22. ($23-$32). $27-41. Performance Network, 810-424-5453. shopfloortheatre.com Lawrence Street Gallery “TheBody Performance Network Theatre, 120 E. Huron Eclectic” 22620 Woodward Ave. Suite A, St., Ann Arbor. Feb. 21 - March 31. 734-663- State of Emergency Free. Shop Floor Ferndale. Feb. 1 - Feb. 28. 248-544-0394. 0681. PerformanceNetwork.org Theatre Company at U-M Flint Theatre, 303 Lawrencestreetgallery.com E. Kearsley St., Flint. 7 p.m. Feb. 23. 810- How The Other Half Loves $15 424-5453. shopfloortheatre.com M&M Enterprises “The Southfield opening night; $18 all others. Broadway Pavilion Antiques Exposition” 26000 Onstage, 21517 Kelly Road, Eastpointe. The Divas Project $20-38. Plowshares Evergreen Road, Southfield. Feb. 22 - Feb. Feb. 22 - March 23. 586-771-6333. Theatre Company at Boll Family YMCA 24. 586-465-9441. Antiquesexposition. BroadwayOnStage.com Theatre, 1401 Broadway St., Detroit. Feb. 15 com - March 10. 313-744-3181. Plowshares.org Jack and the Beanstalk $8-12. Wild Michigan State University Museum “East Swan Theater at Towsley Auditorium, The Four Bitchin’ Babes $40-55. Macomb Meets West: The Transgender Community of Morris Lawrence Building, Washtenaw Center for the Performing Arts, 44575 Istanbul” 409 W. Circle Dr., East Lansing. Jan. Community College, 4800 E. Huron River Garfield Road, Clinton Township. Feb. 23. 22 - April 14. Museum.msu.edu Dr., Ann Arbor. Feb. 14 - 16. 734-995-0530. 586-286-2222. MacombCenter.com WildSwanTheater.org Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit The Lion King $25+. Broadway in Detroit “Voice of the City” 4454 Woodward Ave., Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor at Detroit Opera House, 1526 Broadway St., Detroit. Oct. 2 - March 31. 313-832-6622. Dreamcoat $18-$32. The Encore Musical Detroit. Feb. 13 - March 10. 313-237-SING. MOCADetroit.org Theatre Company, 3126 Broad St., BroadwayinDetroit.com Dexter. Through March 3. 734-268-6200. The Henry Ford “Celebrate Black History” $23-27. Farmers Alley TheEncoreTheatre.org The Whipping Man 20900 Oakwood, Dearborn. Feb. 1 - Feb. Theatre, 221 Farmers Alley, Kalamazoo. 28. 313-982-6001. TheHenryFord.org Lake Effect Fringe Festival $10. Dog Story Through Feb. 24. 269-343-2727. Theater, 7 Jefferseon SE, Grand Rapids. FarmersAlleyTheatre.com University of Michigan Museum of Art Through Feb. 24. PCShakespeare.com “Francis Alys: Guards” 525 S. State St., Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf $8-10. Ann Arbor. Dec. 15 - March 31. 734-763- Making Porn $10-20. The Ringwald Two Muses Theatre at Barnes and Noble 4186. Umma.umich.edu Theatre, 22742 Woodward Ave., Ferndale. Booksellers, 6800 Orchard Lake Road, West Feb. 22 - March 18. 248-556-8581. Bloomfield. Through Feb. 24. 248-850-9919. University of Michigan Museum of Art TheRingwald.com TwoMusesTheatre.org “El Anatsui: When I Last Wrote to You about Africa” 525 S. State St., Ann Arbor. Marriage Plays in rotating repertory. $12-30. Wings $10-20. University of Detroit Mercy Feb. 2 - May 5. 734-763-4186. Umma. Hilberry Theatre, 4743 Cass Ave., Detroit. Feb. Theatre Company at Marygrove College umich.edu 22 - April 6. 313-577-2972. Hilberry.com www.PrideSource.com February 14, 2013 | BTL 27 First Gay Inaugural Poet

Across 57 In “America”, the writer noted 25 Louisiana, in old OrlÈans that his people weren’t like 26 Mineo of _Rebel Without a 1 Benjamin Britten’s Peter people on this TV show Cause_ 6 Comedy sketch 62 Song from a broadway rock 28 Ballet move 10 Reproduced musical? 30 Viking-liking nonheterosexually? 64 First name in Irish literature 31 Part of a chorus line? 14 Mother of the groom, to the 65 Words said with a nod 32 Like the moon, at times other groom 66 Erotic opening 15 Reverse an action 35 Type of tent that may be 67 Brand of machine that cuts erected 16 Foam at the mouth leaves of grass 37 1.0, for one 17 Beethoven’s “F¸r ___” 68 The life of Riley 38 Actress Skye 18 Former lead singer of 69 Cruising areas 39 Tennis champ Nastase Culture Club 70 Mistake by Glenn Burke 20 “America” writer 40 The Gay ___ 22 CBS show in which semen may 41 William Tell’s canton be evidence Down 42 Get hard 23 Athenian T 1 David Hyde ___ 46 Moving porn 24 Strikes out 2 Join the army 48 Cavalry member that can stick it in you 27 Series ender 3 Cher’s portrayer in “Clueless” 49 Jockey Eddie 29 Blowholes 4 Allergic reaction 50 Newsman Jim 33 “Let’s call ___ day” 5 Result of a good, hard workout 52 Number of sides to a gay 34 Clean-air org. 6 Overpower by force symbol 36 Copy source 7 Attachment often found on 53 Like cool cats 39 “America” writer’s role at a DC drawers 55 Humble home celebration 8 Pastoral poem 58 Antigay prejudice, e.g. 42 Glass footwear in a fairy tale 9 “Julius Caesar” costume 59 Go for another tour 43 It connects Dick to Dyke 10 “Time in a Bottle” singer Jim 60 Official records 44 Article in a German newspaper 11 ‘60s First Daughter 61 Visitor at gay.com 45 Spaghetti strainer 12 One that gets laid 62 Hurry, to Shakespeare 47 Carrier to Tel Aviv 13 Low mark 63 Nutty fruitcake center? 51 A real mouthful 19 Bring to a halt 54 “Got a Rainbow” lyricist Gershwin 21 Lays waste to Solution on pg. 26 56 “Diamonds ___ Forever”

28 BTL | February 14, 2013 www.PrideSource.com Cocktail Chatter Pisco Punch

BY ED SIKOV syrup.* Refrigerate overnight so that the fruit macerates. The next day, mix the following in Call me the Pisco Kid. Yes, I’m still on a a cocktail shaker or pitcher for each portion Pisco kick. The attentive reader will recall that you plan to serve: my last Cocktail Chatter column concerned the 2 TBS pineapple-infused simple syrup from Peruvian firewater called Pisco, a delicious the container of pineapple and hard-knockin’ brandy distilled from 4 TBS filtered water Muscat grapes. Research into the drink’s 3 TBS lemon juice history yielded the unexpected information 6 TBS Pisco Portón that a punch made out of Pisco and pineapple Refrigerate the shaker or pitcher until you’re syrup was San Francisco’s most fashionable ready to serve the drink. Do not serve the cocktail in the late 1800s. Nowadays, the Pisco punch on ice unless you haven’t chilled the Sour appears more often on cocktail lists than punch enough; it shouldn’t be watery. Serve Pisco Punch, so I decided to take the more with a chunk of pineapple in each glass. adventurous route and make a round of the *Note: Simple Syrup is a pain to make the punch for Dan and me. classic way; it’s much easier to mix equal Well, sports fans, it was a punch in both parts of sugar and water in a jar, put the lid on senses of the word. The cocktail knocked us the jar, and shake it till the sugar is dissolved. off our feet. We ended up ordering Chinese delivery for dinner, because after a couple of these babies neither one of us was capable of Pisco Punch (My Quicker, cooking. Besides, given the alcohol on our Punchier Variation) breath, lighting the cooktop would have put us at risk of blowing up the kitchen. Like Planters’ Buy a can of pineapple chunks in syrup. In Punch, Pisco Punch is so delightfully drinkable a cocktail shaker or pitcher, mix the following that you don’t know you’re getting snockered ingredients for each portion: until it’s too late to do much about it. Do not – I 2 TBS pineapple syrup from the can repeat, do not – go to the trouble of creating a 3 TBS lemon juice multi-course meal if you’re planning to serve 6 TBS Pisco Portón Pisco Punch as “le cocktail du nuit.” By the time Chill the cocktail thoroughly in the you’re ready to serve your laboriously created refrigerator before serving; again, do not serve Beef Wellington your guests won’t care if you over ice. And forget the chunk of pineapple served them Alpo straight from the can. stuck in the glass since it’s just going to take Here’s both the classic recipe and my time- up space that would be better served by the saving and less watered-down variation. cocktail itself. Moreover, you don’t really want to see your guests digging the thing out of their glasses with their fingers and then wiping their Pisco Punch (The Classic Version) sticky hands on your nice throw pillows. Cut a fresh pineapple into chunks, or – better – buy a container of cut-up fresh pineapple, Ed Sikov is the author of the e-book, “The Boys’ and and place the chunks in a larger sealable plastic Girls’ Little Book of Alcohol,” a novel with recipes container along with 1/2 cup of Really Simple based on his Cocktail Chatter column.

www.PrideSource.com February 14, 2013 | BTL 29 Deep Inside Hollywood BY ROMEO SAN VICENTE James Franco is one of the beautiful people, but you knew that Let’s just go ahead and make the man an From Ira Sachs’ "Keep the honorary gay, shall we? Lights On." Photo: Jean- Christophe Husson Because at this point in his career, as a movie star/student/artist/culture-creator, James Sean Hayes won’t be told which Franco is more than just gay-friendly or gay- adjacent, he’s gay-absorbed. A heterosexual sexual orientation to play who’s chosen queer culture as a topic to After the “Promises, Promises” flap (in which explore and explore and explore from as many a gay “Newsweek” reporter took issue with angles as possible, including the much-buzzed Sean Hayes playing a heterosexual character in about Sundance Film Festival entry “Interior. a Broadway musical – yes, really) it was only a Leather Bar” (which imagined itself as a matter of time before Hayes decided it was time documentary about the mythical missing 40 to prove his non-gay-acting talents on a bigger minutes from the film “Cruising”), Franco stage. And after starring in last year’s TV pilot will now take on “The Beautiful People,” about gay parents, one that didn’t get picked up, a biopic of Jay Sebring, a straight man in a the “Will & Grace” star is back with another stereotypically gay profession. You might not untitled pilot from “Better Off Ted” creator know his name but Sebring was well known Victor Fresco. This time he plays a single father in Hollywood in the 1960s as the playboy (of no defined sexual orientation, but let’s assume hairdresser to the stars. He had an affair with the guy is straight, why not?) raising a 14-year- “Valley of The Dolls” star Sharon Tate and, old daughter and dealing with a problematic along with her, was tragically murdered by the boss at work. If it works, it’ll be one more brick Manson Family. In other words, his life has out of the wall of resistance to openly gay actors needs-to-be-a-movie written all over it. Franco crossing that boundary. So let’s all hope this one will direct and star in the project, but there’s gets picked up. Neil Patrick Harris can’t carry no other word on casting or a schedule, so this this kind of sitcom burden all by himself. one will most likely show up in 2014 or later. ‘AbFab,’ Part Eleventy For Ira Sachs, ‘Love Is Strange’ A touchstone comedy series of the 1990s, one If you pay attention to this sort of thing, that permeated all of gay culture, won legions you’ll know that filmmaker Ira Sachs was of fans and, to this day, refuses to go quietly the breakout gay indie filmmaker of 2012 into that good night. No, it’s not “Sex and the thanks to his harrowing drug drama “Keep City,” it’s “Absolutely Fabulous.” And after The Lights On,” an autobiographical story of one-off specials and mini-seasons, dormancy a gay couple in New York caught in the spiral and resurrection, brilliantly funny periods and of addiction. Striking while the iron is hot, stretches where you wondered why they keep Sachs has already lined up his next feature, beating this dead horse only to rebound back into another indie called “Love is Strange” that funny again, here comes a film. That’s right, an is – surprise – about another gay couple “AbFab” movie. Will it be theatrically released (write what you know, they say). This one or will it stick to the familiarity of television? will star Michael Gambon (Dumbledore, Nobody’s talking just yet, but Joanna Lumley gay after the fact in the “Harry Potter” has confirmed that it is, indeed, in the planning franchise) and Alfred Molina (whose own stages; that she’s fully on board to step back career took off in the late ’80s playing Joe into Patsy’s sleek, drunken, vicious couture; Orton’s lover in the British drama “Prick that Jennifer Saunders is writing the script; and Up Your Ears”) as a longtime gay couple in that she hears it’s also a musical (that last bit New York experiencing the ups and downs might just be wild conjecture and probably is). of a romance that’s lasted a lifetime. After But whatever’s true, whatever it turns out to be, their wedding, the couple finds themselves whenever it sees the light of day, we’re in. We’re forced to be apart (for unexplained reasons always in. We always will be in. Until these two at the moment), and they experience all characters are a hundred. Or more. the difficulty that comes with separation. Shooting is scheduled for this summer, so Romeo San Vicente is still absolutely fabulous himself. expect a highly anticipated 2014 release. He can be reached at DeepInsideHollywood@ qsyndicate.com.

30 BTL | February 14, 2013 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com February 14, 2013 | BTL 31