Barney Frank Comes to Michigan In Support of Dana Nessel

Energetic, Impressive Candidate Turnout at LGBTQ Democratic Caucus

‘CHECK YOUR BLIND SPOTS’ Flagstar Bank Prioritizes Diversity

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MICHIGAN NEWS THE INTERVIEW

COVER 8 Check Your Blind Spots’ NEWS AIDS WALK DETROIT 2018 CANCELLED 4 Energetic, Impressive Candidate Turnout at LGBTQ Will Move to Corktown in 2019 Democratic Caucus 4 BTL Political Endorsements See Page 26 5 Game On See Page 14 6 Barney Frank Comes to Michigan in Support of Dana Nessel 8 Man Arraigned in Shooting of Trans Woman in 2018 ELECTIONS INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS Detroit 9 16 States Urge Supreme Court to Rule Workers Can be Fired for Being Trans 12 Irish Prime Minister Raises LGBTI Issues During Papal Visit OPINION 10 Parting Glances 10 Viewpoint 11 Creep of the Week LIFE 14 The Freeing of Matt Dallas 22 Deep Inside Hollywood 20 Happenings 23 Puzzle and Crossword GAME ON IN GOV. RACE IRISH PRIME MINISTER REC STARTS NEW TRANS Whitmer, Gilchrist Ready RAISES LGBTI ISSUES GROUP COOL CITIES: ROYAL OAK to Fight for Election 17 Five15 Offers Sip, Swish & Stroke Painting Classes DURING PAPAL VISIT 17 Royal Oak Barktoberfest Starts Sept. 15 See Page 5 See Page 12 See Page 24

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BTL Endorsements Energetic, Impressive Candidate as of Aug. 29 BTL Endorses Pro- Turnout at LGBTQ Democratic Caucus BY EVE KUCHARSKI

Equality Candidates n Saturday, Aug. 25, thousands gathered at East Lansing’s Kellogg Hotel & Between The Lines endorses the Conference and Breslin Centers following statewide candidates and ballot Oto vote at the Michigan Democratic Party’s issues that will appear on the ballot Nov. Nominating Convention. Before casting their 6. We encourage our readers to support ballots, however, many delegates attended these equality candidates with you caucuses throughout the day to get candidates’ volunteer time and donations. thoughts on a variety of important issues. At Watch upcoming issues of BTL for the LGBT and Allies Caucus of the Michigan in-depth interviews and analysis of the Democratic Party, appearances were made by a candidates and issues, and be sure to variety of notable candidates like gubernatorial check out www.MiVoterGuide.com for candidate Gretchen Whitmer and U.S. Sen. a complete list of candidates and ballot Debbie Stabenow. First to speak was openly initiatives as we update it throughout the lesbian attorney general hopeful Dana Nessel, election season. who vowed to make Michigan an LGBTQ- friendly state by amending the Elliott-Larsen Governor and Lieutenant Governor Civil Rights Act, stopping state-funded adoption of Michigan agencies from discriminating against LGBTQ Gretchen Whitmer and Garlin Gilchrist II couples and more. “Next, I open a hate crimes division in the U.S. Senator office of Michigan Attorney General to make Debbie Stabenow certain that LGBTQ people are protected everywhere in this state. And how ‘bout I do Michigan Attorney General everything I can to expand the definition of gender in the Ethnic Intimidation Act to also Dana Nessel include sexual orientation and gender identity, so that we can charge people who can commit Michigan Secretary of State hate crimes agains the LGBTQ population Jocelyn Benson with ethnic intimidation?” Nessel said, adding that she would use her office to be firm on Michigan Supreme Court Justices anti-bullying policy. “And last, but certainly (2 positions) not least, I will absolutely do everything in Sam Bagenstos my power as Michigan Attorney General to Megan Cavanaugh fight as vigorously (and) as tenaciously as possible against any efforts to discriminate against the LGBTQ community by the Trump Ballot Initiatives administration.” Voters Not Politicians (gerrymandering Soon after Nessel’s address, Sen. Stabenow reform) made her appearance at the caucus, emphasizing Vote YES the importance of fighting against the appointment of U.S. Supreme Court nominee Promote The Vote (make voting more Brett Kavanaugh. She said that if he were to gain accessible) a seat, it would be a hugely negative, long-term Vote YES consequence of the 2016 election. “This is not someone that should be on the United States Supreme Court and we are in a U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow and State Rep. Jeremy Moss address the LGBTQ Caucus at the Deomcratic The 2018 BTL Progressive Voters’ Guide situation now where if we can’t muster and be Nominating Convention Aug, 25. If elected, Moss would be the first openly gay person to serve in the State will be soon be available online and in loud — if you know folks in Maine, if you know Senate. BTL photos: Todd Heywood. print, with a comprehensive list of all the folks in Alaska that can approach their Senators year’s nominees. Moss, who lauded Michiganders for turning candidates and ballot initiatives, complete we need them to be as loud as possible — about “I’m so excited about the ticket top to bottom. out at the polls in record numbers this year. with endorsements from Between The what is at stake. I just want you to know that I We have wonderful people everywhere and I’m His speech encouraged supportive voters to Lines and our progressive partners that know what is at stake on every front, and we so excited about the commitment and energy increase turnout even further by reaching out focus on LGBTQ rights, environmental have to reach out to everyone,” Stabenow said. to getting this thing done in the right way,” she to undecided members of the community. issues, women’s health and labor. We will “Elections have consequences, and we’re living said. “I am laser focused and understand what “This State Senate seat that I’m running, be updating this Guide from now right through (the) horror of the consequences of is at stake, not after the election but right now four years ago, it was a contested primary; up to the election, so be sure to check it 2016 and we’ve got to turn that around.” in the United States Senate.” 29,000 voters in my district participated. Just out at www.MiVoterGuide.com for your However, Stabenow also mentioned that the That point was echoed by openly gay a few weeks ago, in this primary, in this seat, personalized ballot! candidates for the 2018 were looking especially Michigan State Senate candidate Jeremy 51,000 people voted. (The) highest turnout of strong. She said she felt energetic about this 4 BTL | August 30, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Game On in Gov. Race any primary in the state of Michigan in a state senate seat,” Moss said. “So, I can get you 22,000 more votes for November, but can each of you Whitmer, Gilchrist Ready deliver 10,000 more votes in your community? Can each of you work to get 10,000 people in your neighborhoods, in your cities, in your counties, to to Fight for Election vote? Because we will have a Democratic landslide that will give us a Democratic majority in the state senate in 2018.” BY TODD HEYWOOD Senate floor to tell her story of being sexually With Moss appeared state Sen. Curtis Hertel assaulted to oppose requiring women to carry Jr., who is running for his second term in the hey may be playing different card separate health insurance for sexual health Michigan Senate who said that the most important games, but gubernatorial candidate care, including abortions. thing in this election will be “putting Jeremy in Gretchen Whitmer and her running And Gilchrist didn’t hold back in addressing the majority.” Tmate Garlin Gilchrist II are playing the the needs of the LGBTQ community either. “I have never seen the amount of energy and highest stakes of their lives. That’s because Not during Capital City Recap interview and excitement that I have seen this year. I’ve travelled they’re the Democrats at the top of this fall’s not in his stump speech to the Democratic all over the state, I’ve been to Kalamazoo, Monroe, general election ticket. LGBT and Allies Caucus last Saturday in the UP, down to Oakland County, from Bay City Whitmer rose through the ranks with East Lansing. to Muskegon. Every place I go, Democrats are on service in the state house and the state He trumpeted his work with Move-On.org the margin, Democrats are going to win,” Hertel Jr. senate, where she served as the minority to push campaigns to bar discrimination in said. “You won’t see us for 30 days. We’ll put cots leader, and won the Democratic primary employment and housing in “several states” there. We’ll undue eight years of Republican rule.” in August. She beat out Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, and to push “marriage equality” as evidence Whitmer also made sure to make an appearance the former director of the Detroit Health of his support for the LGBTQ community. at the caucus with her running mate Garlin Department, and millionaire Shri Thanedar “Imagine if we had a unified government Gilchrist at her side. She focused primarily on for the nomination. that was unified toward progress and not diversity while addressing the crowd. Last week, she introduced Gilchrist to toward hatred, imagine what that can do “We’ve got a massive opportunity here. This her potential constituents. Gilchrist is a for our community. It’s that imagination race is not just about the governor’s race, although progressive firebrand who grew up in Detroit, that must motivate us to step up, to step I will tell you, I think that’s the most important where the 35-year-old recently returned with out, to organize, to make phone calls, to one,” Whitmer said. “You know, the governor his family after serving the Obama campaign send text messages, and to invite me to your sets the agenda, writes the budget, makes the as a technology leader as well as working events, I want to come,” Gilchrist said in appointments from boards and commissions for the political organization Move-On.org. his LGBT caucus address. “Why is it that it to a cabinet, and it is about darn time that we a He served in Detroit City Hall for a time is still legal to fire someone in the state of cabinet that is reflective of this state, of the gender and aided the city with its social media Michigan because of their gender identity or diversity of this state, of the racial diversity, of the outreach before jumping into the race for sexual orientation? That is 2018, and that is religious diversity, the sexual orientation diversity. Detroit City Clerk. He lost that position to the civil rights struggle that we continue to How we identify, none of that matters and yet, it incumbent clerk Janice Winfrey after a last- fight and I am proud to have a courageous matters a great deal.” minute surge in absentee balloting. Though fighter and warrior to work alongside in Whitmer underscored her point when she he lost, Gilchrist ran a campaign that was Gretchen Whitmer.” brought up the lack of diversity in the decisions focused on transparency and ethics related Both said they would push hard to amend that started the internationally-known Flint water to administering elections. That’s something Michigan’s nondiscrimination law, the crisis. Whitmer said she felt is important. Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act, to explicitly “When the decision was made to switch the “There’s no question in my mind that I include the LGBTQ community. Such a move Gretchen Whitmer, Democratic candidate for Flint water, there was not a person from Flint really wanted a running mate that was going would bar discrimination in employment, Governor and her Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II, addresed sitting around the table, there was not a person the LGBTQ caucus on Aug. 25 in Lansing. to add something to this ticket,” Whitmer said public accommodations and housing on of color sitting around the table, there was not a in an interview on WILS 1320’s Capital City the basis of sexual orientation or gender woman sitting around the table,” Whitmer said. Recap last week. “Garlin has a phenomenonal identity. Earlier this year, the Michigan Civil Gilchrist said. “It’s part of what every person “Diversity is a strength and real empowerment background in technology and ethics and Rights Commission adopted a controversial deserves. Our diversity is beautiful. I will is what I’m interested in.” organizing. He is a Michigander, like me, interpretive statement in which investigation be a ally fighting to make that happen in Gilchrist said that voters who are still undecided who loves his state.” of discrimination claims regarding sexual Michigan.” about whether to choose gubernatorial candidate Additionally, she said that she appreciated orientation or gender identity were allowed. Whitmer noted that Michigan is lagging Bill Schuette or Whitmer should examine the civil his hardworking and tenacious qualities. If discrimination was found to exist, it was behind the country regarding acceptance. rights struggles that still exist in the state. “I wanted someone who’s got my back, treated as a violation of the law’s prohibition “We’ve made huge strides in this country “This choice could not be more clear this someone who works as hard as I do, that of discrimination on the basis of sex. The in the last five years. Here in Michigan we’ve November; you literally have bigotry in opposition has integrity and knows how to get things move was heavily opposed by Schuette in slid backwards,” she said. with partnership ... you literally have someone done. And Garlin Gilchrist fits all those his role as Attorney General. He issued She underscored that point when she who wants to take our rights away, versus people requirements to the max,” Whitmer said in an opinion arguing that the Commission, brought up Gov. Rick Snyder’s move to sign who are ready to work alongside and expand a Detroit Free Press report. “He’s the exact which is a Constitutionally-created and legislation to ban universities from offering rights,” Gilchrist said. “Why is it that it is still legal kind of partner I need to make this state independent body in the state, overstepped same-sex partner benefits. to fire someone in the state of Michigan because government work for the people again.” its authority. The Commission has not backed As a self-defined “fierce” card player, of their gender identity or sexual orientation? This Whitmer has a long history fighting for down and has announced it will continue Whitmer and Gilchrist said they will be ready is 2018, and that is the civil rights struggle that the LGBTQ community and women’s rights. to accept and investigate complaints based to face any new attacks from Schuette the we continue to fight, and I am proud to have a She’s well known for accusing lawmakers of on sexual orientation and gender identity GOP. When Gilchrist was first announced, courageous fighter and warrior to work alongside a creating a “license to discriminate” in state discrimination. a PAC that is aligned with Schuette called it in Gretchen Whitmer.” anti-bullying legislation, and for taking to the “Every person deserves (equal treatment),” the most liberal ticket ever. www.PrideSource.com August 30, 2018 | BTL 5 Barney Frank Comes to Michigan In Support of Dana Nessel Former Congressman Says ‘Every LGBT Person Should Become an Advocate to Get Other People to Vote for Candidates Who Support Us’ BY KATE OPALEWSKI “When one group of people gain more he most prominent gay politician in the rights, others do not lose their rights. We are U.S., Barney Frank, will be the special all Michiganders, we are all Americans, and guest at an LGBTQ fundraiser for Dana everyone in our great state is entitled to equal TNessel, Democratic candidate for attorney general, at 7 p.m. on Sept. 6 at the home of protection under the law. Barney Frank has Jason Misleh, 18695 Fairfield in Detroit. always understood this notion. I hope to follow “I am humbled and honored to have Rep. his lead as the top law enforcement official of Barney Frank, an icon of Congress, support Michigan.” – Dana Nessel my candidacy for Michigan attorney general,” said Nessel, who like Frank, if elected, will make don’t like us for religious reasons to be able history in the state as Michigan’s first openly to deny recognizing our rights and that’s a gay statewide office holder. legal battle where the states can get involved Frank, who came out as gay in 1987 as a and the states, for example, can enforce — member of Congress, served as a member the attorney general can reinforce state anti- of the U.S. House of Representatives from discrimination laws. So, we’re in a major legal Massachusetts from 1981 to 2013. battle with Donald Trump, not just on issues “Also like Rep. Frank,” Nessel said. “I across the board like the environment, but on intend to use the office to support the LGBTQ LGBT rights and whether or not we’re going community while simultaneously protecting to have those rights fully or they’re going to the civil liberties of all our state’s residents, be eroded. including members of our most vulnerable minority groups who so badly need a state Is that what’s at risk with Brett Kavanaugh’s actor committed to protecting them from BTL spoke with Frank on Monday, Aug. 20 appointment? about why he is attending this fundraiser, what discrimination.” Oh, absolutely. It’s totally at risk. It’s he thinks about the political environment and Nessel said she wants people to understand outrageous what they got away with and I what members of the LGBTQ community can that equal protection is not a “zero-sum am very disappointed in Justice Kennedy. On do in addition to voting in the next general game.” “When one group of people gain more the specific issues of LGBT rights he’s been election.. rights, others do not lose their rights. We are very good, but he quite deliberately timed all Michiganders, we are all Americans, and his resignation and I have to say it makes everyone in our great state is entitled to equal Why should members of the community come me doubt the depth of his commitment to protection under the law,” Nessel said. “Barney our being treated fairly because he clearly out to support Dana Nessel? Frank has always understood this notion. I hope timed his resignation to make sure that to follow his lead as the top law enforcement Having out members of our community Donald Trump would be able to appoint his official of Michigan.” in public office is very important on two replacement — making sure for instance that To help Nessel achieve this goal, support levels. Obviously, it’s also important to be he does it before there might be a Democratic from members of the community is needed, supportive of straight people who have been senate. So it was a great disappointment by according to Michael Einheuser, one of the supportive of us — we’re a minority and we Kennedy. There are now going to be five anti- hosts and estate planning attorney at Einheuser need allies. But there is an element of being LGBT votes. ... Legal, P.C. in Bingham Farms. out that is important on two levels. First of all, “The general election is going to be a very, while we’ve made a great deal of progress in Does this political environment remind you of very hard-fought campaign. We know that diminishing prejudice, there still are people Barney Frank any other time - generally and with respect to there will be a great deal of negative advertising who have the prejudice. There are still young LGBTQ rights? put against her and we know that there will LGBT people who are intimidated by the especially now, to have people who are LGBT No, because there has not been a previous be a great deal of outside money from some prejudice. So for both cases, having people point where we were in danger of losing our very conservative sources, and if there was one who are out, who are talented and able and themselves in the position to make that point because we now have in Donald Trump and rights because, frankly, we didn’t have them. time that the LGBTQ community should put intelligent, that’s very important. It helps to The history of LGBT rights in the last 50 aside any internal disagreements, it should be repudiate the prejudice and it also helps to the Supreme Court, unfortunately, probably — although I hope we can fight it — the most years has been an improvement. This is the around this campaign,” he said. “The idea is inspire younger people that they shouldn’t first time that we’ve had somebody threaten to see if we can get the LGBTQ community to allow the prejudice to intimidate them. hostile attitude towards our rights in a long time. to go back. We had problems obviously with close ranks and help fund Dana’s campaign ... Secondly, there are issues that are going to both Bushes. There was the danger that we and we’re grateful that Congressman Frank is come up — look, when you’re in office, you What do you mean? wouldn’t go forward. Now, again, he’s not coming by to help us out.” can’t do everything you would like to do He’s not going to undo, for example, marriage. going to roll them back in general, but the Beyond being a role model as “America’s only all the time. You have a limited amount of I don’t think they want to, politically, but what danger is these religious exceptions. left-handed, gay, Jewish congressman,” Frank’s time, you have a limited amount of money they are going to do without rolling back legacy is tied to the Dodd–Frank Wall Street at your disposal. You have a limited amount Aside from attending fundraising events like this specific rights is to increase the exceptions to Reform and Consumer Protection Act, which of political issues you can press in terms of and voting, what should LGBTQ people do now those rights. Particularly, they’re going to be imposed financial reforms after the recession. where they are and it is important for us, through 2020 to protest Trumpism? seeking to empower anybody who says they 6 BTL | August 30, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Poll: Tammy Baldwin in Dead Heat with GOP Opponent in Wis. Senate Race

BY CHRIS JOHNSON

new poll from Marquette University shows Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) in a dead Aheat with her Republican challenger Leah Vukmir, showing a tightening race as Election Day approaches. The poll from Marquette University Law School finds a plurality of 49 percent likely Wisconsin voters support Baldwin, but Vukmir is Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) and Wisconsin state Sen. Leah two points behind in the race at 47 Vukmir (R-Milwaukee Co.) are in a dead heat, according to a percent. new poll. (Washington Blade photo of Baldwin by Michael Key; photo of Vukmir public domain) Moreover, 3 percent of respondents in the poll said they were undecided, which would be enough to put Vukmir over the is more consistent with earlier numbers. edge if they entirely side with her on Election Baldwin has a commanding lead of 51 percent Day. compared to 43 percent for Vukmir. The poll is made public shortly after the The new polling could be reflective of the Wisconsin primary in which Vukmir, the GOP continued TV ads aired in Wisconsin against establishment candidate, came out on top in the Baldwin funded by Koch brother-backed Super Republican primary against the Steve Bannon- PACs, which see Baldwin as vulnerable and backed Democrat-turned-Republican Kevin have spent millions in the race to unseat her. Nicholson. The Marquette University poll also found The Marquette University poll stands out incumbent Republican Gov. Scott Walker among other polls in recent weeks that had now in a 46-46 dead heat with Democratic Baldwin with a significant double-digit lead candidate Tony Evers. Following the two is over Vukmir. Libertarian candidate Phil Anderson with Among all registered voters in Wisconsin 6 percent of the vote and 2 percent who are voters as opposed to likely voters, the polling undecided.

dangerous candidate for reelection. There’s ® Barney Frank no question Pence would be worse than Continued from p. 6 Trump. Pundits have said the Democrats are split - is the rift real or a creation of the pundits? Get other people to vote. I think the thing to do is to say we’ve made great progress What rift? Actually, the Democrats are pretty now, and our friends and our relatives in the united. ... Yes, the press is trying to make fight against prejudice of the people close to more of it about candidates on the left versus us; we’ve made great progress. But I think candidates more centrist and the answer what you need to do now if you’re an LGBT is, as you would expect in a Democracy, person is to talk to everybody who says they people to some extent reflect their districts. love you, they’re your friend, they value you, There are some Democrats in districts that and say “You know what, if you love me, you are overwhelmingly Democratic with a lot can’t vote for people who are going to treat of people who are strongly on the left and me like crap.” So every LGBT person should they’re to the left of Democrats from districts become an advocate to get other people to that are more swing districts — but it’s not vote for candidates who support us. By the a serious issue in terms of hobbling us. In way, that’s the most effective kind of political terms of opposing Trump, the Democrats campaigning — person to person. Look, if have been very united. you care about me then you’re going to vote The event is hosted by Between The Lines to protect my interests against these people Publishers Susan Horowitz and Jan Stevenson. who are trying to take them away. Along with Michael Einheuser, Jason Misleh, Some people fear potential president Pence Michael Rowady, Todd Pleiness, Roland Leggett, more than Trump. What do you think? Dan Vermeersch, Rick Bowers, Dan Treder, Matt Clayson and Kim Ross-Clayson. For They’re right. Pence is personally much more more information about Nessel’s campaign visit bigoted than Trump probably because of dana2018.com. To RSVP to the upcoming event, the way he interprets religion. Trump’s just contact Michael Einheuser at meinheuser@ opportunistic. I think he would be a more www.PrideSource.com August 30, 2018 | BTL 7 Man Arraigned in Shooting of Trans Adopting ‘Check Your Blind Spots’ Woman in Detroit Flagstar Bank Prioritizes Diversity in the Workplace BY EVE KUCHARSKI loan application, because I have to enter male gained so much traction that it even caught or female to run the credit report?’ That’s the attention of Flagstar’s CEO Alessandro Fair Michigan Successfully n an instant, a snap judgment can change when Kiri really just broke down crying, P. DiNello. everything; a negative one, even more and she just said, ‘Thank you, thank you, “I think the experience Kiri had Argues to Add Charge of Ethnic so. In the case of Kiri Stewart, an openly for recognizing that I’m transgender in the at Flagstar is a real-life example of how Intimidation Based on Gender Itransgender woman, an angry reaction could midst of changing things,’” Kretowicz said. everyone wins in an inclusive environment mean bodily harm. So, for her, hypervigilance “I didn’t think anything of it.” – employees, customers and the community. BY JASON A. MICHAEL is often a necessity. That’s why when I’m not sure I can say that the outcome she went to Flagstar bank to apply for Kiri would have been the same The 29-year-old was Deonton Rogers, arraigned for a mortgage, she steeled herself if Flagstar had not put D&I (diversity in 3rd Circuit Court in Detroit on August 15. for the worst. and inclusion) front and center as a Accused of pulling a gun on a trans woman in a gas “I got all of my information company,” DiNello wrote to BTL. “In station on the city’s west side and shooting her while gathered, all of my reports and bank this case, our customer belonged to the in a scuffle. Rogers is charged with discharging a statements and everything, and I LGBTQ+ community, but she could just firearm causing serious injury, felonious assault, took it to Flagstar,” Stewart said. as easily been part of another group that being a felon in possession of a firearm, fourth- “Well, of course all of that stuff is some label as ‘different.’ Kiri is now busy degree child abuse and ethnic intimidation based under my previous name. It’s all the moving into her new home, which means on gender and a felony firearms violation. things I’ve accumulated over my we have a satisfied customer. And how Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy issued life, which has only pretty recently is this good for the community? It has a the charge after consulting with the Fair Michigan changed. So, I was very nervous new homeowner.” Justice Program. about going in there and having Now that she’s busy settling in to her FMJP is a program that assists Michigan law to apply for a mortgage and then, home, Stewart said that she’s looking enforcement officers and prosecutors in solving basically, being forced to come out forward to being a homeowner. serious crimes against LGBT persons. This is the during that process.” “When you start getting pieces of paper first gender bias hate crime in Michigan involving Stewart’s assigned loan officer with your name on them, it feels amazing. a transgender woman who was assaulted. Lesbian was Assistant Vice President of And now, to have my own home, with the and gay persons have no hate crime protections in Sales Kim R. Kretowicz. Stewart mortgage in my name is one of the best the state of Michigan. said she felt a bit of relief when feelings in the world,” Stewart said. “I’ve “The Ethnic Intimidation Act – Michigan’s Kretowicz immediately referred to had some bad experiences being trans hate-crime law – penalizes hate crimes committed her as female, but began to hold her with service professionals, too, but my because of a victim’s sex,” said Fair Michigan breath again when it came time for experience of being seen, respected and President Dana Nessel. “Judge [William] McMonico her to present her driver’s license; I think genuinely cared for by Alison and decided that a hate crime against a transgender her gender marker and previous Kim at Flagstar is one that I will never person because she is transgender falls within name had not yet been updated. forget. They gave me acceptance and the scope of the law. Fair Michigan instituted the But Kretowicz “didn’t miss a beat.” helped me find a home, which I think Justice Project to provide the LGBT community “He looked at it, made the are two of the greatest gifts a trans person with this kind of strong advocacy in the criminal realization in his mind what was can get.” justice system.” happening and he typed it into his DiNello said that Flagstar will The incident dates back to July 23, when computer, and then he asked me Photo courtesy of Kiri Stewart. continue to work to maintain its Rogers allegedly approached a trans woman in a how I would like to be referred to,” inclusive environment to ensure that Mobil gas station at the corner of Seven Mile and Stewart said. “He said, ‘So, I see that all future interactions with the LGBTQ Greenfield Roads. After she identified herself as this says your legal name. Would you community and other minority groups go being transgender, it is said that Rogers pulled a gun like to be referred to as Kiri?’ I said yes, They gave me acceptance and just as smoothly. Just last Wednesday, Aug. on her and that in attempt to wrestle the gun from and for the rest of the time he just did 29, the company kicked off its portion of him, the trans women, whose identity has not been it; correct pronouns, everything. There“ helped me find a home, which the “Check Your Blind Spots” tour. It’s an released to the public, was shot. The injury, while was no teaching moment, there was no I think are two of the greatest event that is part of a national coalition called not life-threatening, did require surgery to treat. adjustment period or whatever. He just CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion in “We just paid for her prescriptions last week,” said dropped right into it like it was nothing, gifts a trans person can get. which hundreds of executives seek to create Jey’nce Poindexter Mizrahi, transgender victim’s and it made me feel so good. It made me an environment where acceptance is a main advocate for Equality Michigan. “She’s stable and feel so normal [laughs], which is unusual Kretowicz then brought in Alison Evanzo,” focus of company culture. recovering. She had surgery the other day.” sometimes for trans people.” a relationship banker at Flagstar, to explain “We are constantly looking for One local trans activist is very happy with Judge Even though he temporarily had to some of the bank’s other services. She, too, opportunities to reinforce Diversity & McMonico’s ruling. use Stewart’s previous name for the loan made Stewart feel at home. Inclusion as a cornerstone of our culture,” “I think what Fair Michigan is doing is a good application, she is now the proud owner of “I really enjoyed Kiri and I just treated said DiNello. “This program is just another thing,” said Michelle Fox-Phillips, executive a home with the correct documentation. her as a human being, as I would want to step toward cultivating a workplace that director of the Gender-Identity Network Alliance. According to Kretowicz, he just wanted be treated,” Evanzo said. “Actually, for me, supports an open dialogue on complex, “Considering that here in state of Michigan gender Stewart to feel comfortable during the I’m thrilled that people have choices and an and sometimes difficult, conversations about identity and sexual orientation are not covered process, and was surprised when she became accepting society where people can evolve diversity and inclusion.“ under hate crimes … to use ethnic intimidation. visibly emotional. and become who they want to be.” Hey, whatever works.” “Kiri definitely was attired as a woman with Stewart went home relieved and felt To learn more about Flagstar Bank’s diversity a handbag and makeup and knowing she was compelled to share her story on social and inclusion efforts visit flagstar.com/ a woman, I said, ‘How do I address you on the media. She made a Facebook post and it diversity. 8 BTL | August 30, 2018 www.PrideSource.com 16 States Urge Supreme Court to Rule Workers Can be Fired for Being Trans

BY CHRIS JOHNSON

coalition of 16 states led by Nebraska Attorney General Douglas Peterson is urging the U.S. Supreme Court to Areverse a federal appeals court decision in favor of a fired transgender funeral home worker and determine workers can be terminated for being transgender. The states filed a friend-of-the-court brief before the Supreme Court last week in response to a petition urging justices to take up and reverse the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals’ ruling in Harris Funeral Homes v. EEOC, which held anti-trans discrimination is unlawful under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which bars sex discrimination. Alliance Defending Freedom, an anti-LGBT Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson is leading 16 legal firm, filed the underlying petition seeking states in urging the Supreme Court to rule workers can Supreme Court review and reversal of the Sixth be fired for being trans. (Photo public domain) Circuit decision. terminated from her position at Harris Funeral Although the Supreme Court is in recess Home in Michigan after she announced she for the summer and has yet to decide whether would transition on the job. The owners to take up the case, the states argue anti- objected to her continued employment, citing transgender discrimination remains lawful religious concerns. despite the Sixth Circuit ruling on a federal The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity basis. Commission chose to represent Stephens “Unless and until Congress affirmatively based on its findings in the 2012 case of Macy acts, our Constitution leaves to the States the v. Holder, although the American Civil Liberties authority to determine which protections, or Union later took up representation of Stephens. not, should flow to individuals based on gender Although the trial court ruled in favor of identity,” the brief says. “The Sixth Circuit the funeral home and found the Religious ignored this fact and essentially rewrote federal Freedom Restoration Act permitted Stephens’ law, engaging in policy experimentation.” termination, the Sixth Circuit reversed that The brief points to writings from the late and agreed her termination was illegal under U.S. Associate Justice Antonin Scalia to argue Title VII. Congress didn’t intend to cover transgender Joining Peterson in signing the brief are people under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act attorneys general from Alabama, Arkansas, of 1964, which bars sex discrimination in the Kansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, South Carolina, workplace. South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West “The term ‘gender identity’ does not appear Virginia, Wyoming as well as the governors of in the text of Title VII or in the regulations Kentucky, Maine and Mississippi. accompanying Title VII,” the brief says. “In fact, Harper Jean Tobin, director of policy for ‘gender identity’ is a wholly different concept the National Center for Transgender Equality, from ‘sex,’ and not a subset or reasonable condemned the brief in a statement, saying the interpretation of the term ‘sex’ in Title VII. The signers of the filing “are acting in a complete meaning of the terms ‘sex,’ on the one hand, and state of ignorance.” ‘gender identity,’ on the other, both now and at “This brief is a political attack on the the time Congress enacted Title VII, forecloses humanity of transgender people,” Tobin said. alternate constructions.” “It ignores decades of law and the realities faced The filing stands in contrast to mountains by transgender workers across this country. Ms. of case law that determined anti-trans Stephens’ case is the textbook definition of sex discrimination amounts to sex discrimination is discrimination, and court after court has already therefore unlawful under Title VII. In fact, many shown this to be true. All Americans deserve of those courts rulings are based on the Supreme a fair shot at their jobs, and the desperation Court decision written in 1998 by Scalia in of officials from these 16 states to legalize Oncale v. Sundower Offshore Services, which discrimination is despicable. determined courts should construe protections under Title VII broadly, even in cases of same- This article originally appeared in the Washington sex harassment. Blade and is made available in partnership with The brief was filed in case involving Aimee the National LGBT Media Association. Stephens, a transgender worker who was www.PrideSource.com August 30, 2018 | BTL 9 Parting Glances

BY CHARLES ALEXANDER A Chance Encounter with Dr. Heath

s a gay teenager I hung out at the Hub Grill in downtown Detroit, a greasy spoon of a place, located on the corner of Farmer and Bates Streets. It was in convenient walking Adistance of four quite popular gay bars, City Hall and the 1st Precinct Police Station. Just out of high school I was eager to find work, and a gay friend named George “Butchy Trapezoid” Trapper told me that Harper Hospital, where he worked, was hiring high school grads to be trained as OR Techs – operating room technicians. That sounded like a great lead for many reasons, one of which was that I was born at Harper Hospital (at the time, I hadn’t the slightest idea that my OR training would lead to what might well be the first coincidence of its kind).

Harper Hospital (at the time, I hadn’t the slightest idea that my OR training would lead to what might well be the first coincidence of its kind).

I got my training started immediately and it lasted two months. I learned how to wash my hands with antiseptic, gown without breaking sterile scrub, how to identify and pass Viewpoint surgical instruments and chromic sutures, how to keep detailed records, use the autoclave, do sponge counts and, once, deal with a dying patient. OR Techs all wore green scrub uniforms like physican interns, The First in Michigan: Part 2 surgeons and medical students on learning assignments if, a patient called me doc or doctor I did little to dissuade them from the vicarious honor so accorded me. Suffice it that OR Techs wore no telltale stethoscope). In time, I passed instruments for several caesarian section DENNIS JACOBS births, witnessed a four-holed drilled craineotomy, circulated during dozens of tonsillectomies and attended while a patient died on the operating table. I and another OR tech ID tagged Editor's Note: Dr. Dennis Jacobs and his partner were among grunt, while his 4-year-old brother was very verbal – and a his right-hand thumb and toe, and took his body three flights the first openly gay couples to adopt a child in Michigan. This real mischief maker. We enrolled both boys in a Montessori down for temporary freezer storage. Our first experience with editorial piece is a continuation of Jacobs' original submission school, and I would get a call almost daily that our older son death, we sought to dispel the unexpected shock by touches of to BTL which detailed the first part of his story and ran in our had called somebody a name or hit someone. Thank God for tension-easing humor. July 26 issue. To read the first part of this story go online to Miss Mary, the school's director who went way above the call The shortage of operating nurses during World War II – an pridesource.com. of duty to support our family. understandable critical need – led at the time to the training of Yet, troubling as our start was, it's amazing what a good lay persons to fill the open positions. In the late ‘50s, there was y partner and I adopted two special needs children haircut will do, some Gap Kids clothes and a healthy diet. also an extensive surgical nurse need in metropolitan hospitals, in 1994. Raising two little boys as gay men was a What helped the situation was that we were living in our dream and lay persons – high school grads, conscientious objectors challenge, but raising two little boys with disabilities home called Thistle Brook Farms. It sat far back from the road to avoiding war service – were trained. Min a homophobic environment was even harder. Both boys, and overlooked an ever-changing marsh. We had horses, goats, As a Harper Hospital OR Tech I made mental notes about each in their own way, had serious behavioral problems. chickens and dogs, along with a terrific organic vegetable who might be gay or lesbian. I suspected the rather butch nurse Our 2-year-old refused to speak, preferring to point and garden. As the boys began to settle in to their new life, they

See Headline, continued on p. 11 See The First, continued on next page 10 BTL | August 30, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Creep Of The Week Evangelical White BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI House Dinner Guests ood poisoning sucks, y’all. I just fellow human beings. vomited with such force that I’m This complaint does, however, fit fairly certain some major internal radical evangelicals perfectly and helps Forgans have left my body along with my explain their love of Trump. As Hooper ® The First Our older son in particular was harassed from soul. And, to top it off, I just got a spam points out, we’ve watched for the past Continued from p. 10 text from some “horny single woman” 40 years as evangelicals work against the beginning. Not only was he biracial and telling me she’s all alone tonight and LGBTQ people, women, people of darker than most of the kids who attended wants to suck my you-know-what. Mind color (shout-out to Jeff Sessions). They could take advantage of the exploration-worthy you, I’m sitting here dehydrated, saltine have used their power and influence to 17 acres on which our farm sat. And once the boys his school, but he also had two gay dads. crumbs all over my shirt, but hey, nice to diminish all who dared demand equality. felt safe, they quickly adapted to their new life. It know I’ve still got it. If I had the strength The fight for marriage equality is the was truly magical. To this day, the boys talk about I’d get up off the couch to show these most recent high-profile example. It’s the time they spent on the farm. Unfortunately, "Well, that's just what fifth graders do." I simply texts to my wife. a fight that a lot of people thought we’d as perfect as our time was, it wasn't permanent. asked her, 'What would happen if they were calling Alas, she’ll have to read about my “won” given the 2015 Supreme Court Both boys ended up staying in Montessori for each other the N-word?' She almost dropped the new girlfriend in this column along ruling and all. And yet here we are, an as long as they could, and when it was time to phone. It was at that point that I knew my partner with the rest of you. So what to do on a anti-LGBTQ judge nominated and ready graduate we had to make a decision: should we and I were fighting an uphill battle; one we weren't night like tonight? Well, I’m following to tip the court against equality. Just three try to send them to public school or find a private going to win. Jeremy Hooper on Twitter (@goodasyou) years later, and we could see marriage school? In the end, we chose the public school The final straw was at the school's Christmas as he essentially live tweets the awful equality evaporate. And that is terrifying. option. We figured that because my partner was pageant. Both boys were cast in the play, and when evangelical jamboree happening at the And so wrong. an attorney and I was a psychologist, it would be we drove over to see the show we arrived a little White House right now. While I easy for us to deal with any problems if they arose. late. We were forced to stand against the gym was clutching the toilet bowl and Boy, were we wrong. wall, and it became increasingly uncomfortable as praying for Jesus to take me, Trump Our older son in particular was harassed from one teacher after another poked her head around and his family, including LGBTQ As Hooper puts it, ‘If you’re the beginning. Not only was he biracial and darker the curtain to get a look at us as if we were aliens “allies” Ivanka and Jared, were “ surprised that political than most of the kids who attended his school, from another planet. We learned later that we rubbing elbows with some of the but he also had two gay dads. One time, some kid were the first and only gay parents to ever enroll most hateful anti-LGBTQ figures evangelicals would show up stood up in the back of the bus and yelled at the their children in this school. alive. to this White House despite top of his lungs, "Your dads are fags!" Another We decided to sell the farm. This is, of course, not a surprise. time, he came home in tears saying that all the kids Trump needs these folks in his the many reasons to not, on the playground were calling each other fags. Dr. Jacobs is a retired clinical psychologist and corner. A Republican really can’t I had had just about enough, and called the the former CEO of a large behavioral health win without the evangelical vote you haven’t been paying middle school principal. When I described to organization. these days. It’s also not a surprise attention for four decades. her what was going on, her response to me was, that these so-called Christians are falling all over themselves to Rank hypocrisy in service worship Trump as their God. Mind you, it seems like a contradiction of their desired outcome is, physician admitted to standing on the truant for folks who claim to be culture was, and always will be their ® Parting Glances sponge. Was it an accident or an OR prank? war warriors to fawn over a man Continued from p. 10 Whatever! Hemostats were passed. Chromic O who literally embodies the opposite m.o.’ sutures tied. The wound sealed with relief by one of all the things they claim to hold responsible for keeping surgical tools sharp, honed and all at the operating table (Hey! Don’t look at dear. But if you’ve been studying this ” and sterile was a lesbian. me, Mary!). crowd as long as I have, well, it’s fitting. As Hooper tweets, “I realize some We techs were also warned about the head of And! What may well be an item for the Guinness As Hooper puts it, “If you’re surprised might not understand why I and anesthesia. Not to accept rides on his summer Book of World Records. I had the privilege of that political evangelicals would show likeminded activists focus so much on yacht. There were at the time 13 operating rooms scrubbing with the doctor who brought me into up to this White House despite the the marriage stuff when there is SO at Harper, numbered one through 14. There was the world, Dr. Leonard Heath (his name was on many reasons to not, you haven’t been MUCH MORE. What you must realize no number 13. my birth certificate, “Oh, my God! You’re right. paying attention for four decades. Rank is we paused our lives for over a decade Once I attended my third surgical go-around the That’s my signature. Lucky guy!”). hypocrisy in service of their desired to fight a ‘culture war’ that they waged sight of blood no longer bothered me. I also found Whether of not I was his first gay baby birth is outcome is, was, and always will be against us on this sole subject.” out that surgery often was subject to participant not known. It was, however, I’m sure a memorable their m.o.” Marriage equality was, and is, a BFD. talk about sports, touches of humor, and tension- experience for me and, presumably – R.I.P. – Dr. True story. Who sits on our courts is a BFD. Which dispelling banter among the interns, residents, Heath. I’d like to point out the often trotted is why evangelicals have no problem and surgical chiefs. out complaint about Democrats, that looking the other way when Trump Each surgery ended with what was called a Charles Alexander is prolific both as a BTL columnist they need to stand for something, not breaks any and all commandments. “sponge count.” No surgical opening could be (700-plus columns) and as a well-known LGBT just against Trump. Never mind that this Now if you’ll excuse me, I have some sewn shut until the blood-absorbing sponges were community artist (1000 Facebook images). He is a complaint completely ignores the fact saltines to regurgitate. Oh, and I also accounted for. None left in the patient. Spirit of Detroit Award recipient and an Affirmations that Dems actually have a whole slew hope everyone at the evangelical dinner Alas, one surgery a sponge was missing. We LGBT CENTER Jan Stevenson awardee. Connect of actual policy proposals rooted in the gets sick AF. recounted and recounted. Finally, a resident with him at [email protected]. principal that we should give a shit about www.PrideSource.com August 30, 2018 | BTL 11 NEWS Irish Prime Minister Raises LGBTI Priest Urges Vatican Family Conference to Issues During Papal Visit Welcome Gays BY MICHAEL LAVERS BY NICOLE WINFIELD AND LEO ENRIGHT rish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar raised DUBLIN (AP) – One of the Catholic LGBTI-specific issues during Pope Francis’ Church’s leading advocates for gays told two-day visit to the country.Varadkar, Iwho is openly gay, on Saturday in a speech in a Vatican-sponsored conference Thursday that LGBT Catholics deserve to be loved, front of Francis at Dublin Castle pointed out same-sex couples can legally marry in Ireland. listened to and welcomed by the church Varadkar also noted Irish voters in May voted and not ostracized and condemned. overwhelmingly to legalize abortion in the The Rev. James Martin received a country. standing ovation after his presentation on Divorce became legal in Ireland in 1996. welcoming LGBT Catholics at the church’s “The Ireland of the 21st century is a very World Meeting of Families, which Pope different place today than it was in the past,” Francis will be closing out this weekend. said Varadkar. “Ireland is increasingly diverse.” Martin told the audience that LGBT “One in six of us were not born here, and Catholics “have often been treated like there are more and more people who adhere lepers by the church” despite Christ’s to other faiths, or who are comfortable in example of welcoming and loving all those declaring that they subscribe to no organized on the margins of society. religion,” he added. “We have voted in our “By not welcoming, by excluding LGBT Parliament and by referendum to modernize Catholics, the church is falling short of its our laws – understanding that marriages do call to being God’s family,” Martin said. He not always work, that women should make specifically urged Catholics to not focus on their own decisions, and that families come gays and their sexual morality while giving in many forms including those headed by a Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar with Pope Francis in Dublin on Aug. 25, 2018. (Photo courtesy of Twitter) the sex lives and marital status of straight grandparent, lone parent or same-sex parents Catholics a pass. or parents who are divorced.” That Martin was even invited to speak Consensual same-sex sexual relations were Francis had a private meeting with Yayo in Dublin was significant given he has criminalized when Pope John Paul II visited Consensual same-sex sexual Grassi, a former student, and his longtime had talks canceled in the U.S. because of Ireland in 1979. relations were criminalized partner, while he was in D.C. The Vatican pressure from conservative groups who Varadkar told an Irish television last week downplayed the pontiff’s meeting with Davis. oppose his ministry and advocacy. that he planned to tell Francis LGBTI people, when Pope John Paul II visited Francis meets with clergy sex abuse In recent weeks, a petition was launched women and those who are divorced “feel survivors by conservatives demanding Dublin excluded from the church.” The Washington Ireland in 1979. The Vatican Press Office said Francis on organizers cancel his speech. The calls only Blade has reached out to Varadkar’s office Saturday met with eight people “who have suffered abuse of power, of conscience and increased following revelations of sexual for comment. Maria Viganò, a former Vatican ambassador sexual abuse.” misconduct by a disgraced U.S. cardinal to the U.S., in which he said Francis knew The press release also notes Francis involving seminarians. about the sex abuse allegations against then- Clergy sex abuse overshadows acknowledged the “grave scandal caused Martin didn’t refer to the new scandals Cardinal Theodore McCarrick, the former in Ireland by the abuse of young people by and took no questions, sticking instead to papal visit archbishop of Washington. members of the church.” The Vatican Press what Catholics can do in their own parishes Viganò in his letter that urges Francis to Francis on Saturday met with Irish President Office and media reports also indicate Francis to make sure gays and their families feel resign said the pontiff rescinded the sanctions Michael D. Higgins and visited Dublin’s St. expressed shame at the church’s response to welcomed and loved. He urged them to against McCarrick that Pope Benedict XVI Mary’s Pro-Cathedral. Francis on Sunday the sex abuse scandal in the country and remember gays are Catholic, that they don’t had previously imposed against him. visited a Catholic shrine in western Ireland around the world. choose their orientation and have gifts to McCarrick in June resigned from the and celebrated Mass at Dublin’s Phoenix Park Francis in May met with Juan Carlos offer the church. College of Cardinals. The disgraced former that marked the end of the World Meeting of Cruz, a gay man from Chile who is among Catholic teaching calls for gays to be archbishop of Washington has been ordered Families 2018 before he returned to Rome. the hundreds of people who were sexually treated with dignity and respect, but to a “life of prayer and penance” before the Francis traveled to Ireland less than two abused by a priest in the country’s capital of considers homosexual acts “intrinsically church tries him on the allegations. weeks after a Pennsylvania grand jury released Santiago, at the Vatican. All of Chile’s Catholic disordered.” Viganò in his letter states “the seriousness a report that says Cardinal Donald Wuerl of bishops submitted their resignations the same “Many if not most LGBT Catholics have of homosexual behavior must be denounced” the Archdiocese of Washington and other month amid lingering outrage over the clergy been deeply wounded by our church,” and “homosexual networks present in the church officials covered up clergy sex abuse sex abuse scandal that has rocked the South Martin said. “Apologize to them.” church must be eradicated,” even though of children for decades. American country. He stressed that he was speaking to Wuerl, who was the bishop of Pittsburgh there are no links between pedophilia and church ministers, especially. “You can homosexuality. from 1988-2006, was scheduled to attend the This article originally appeared in the apologize. It doesn’t solve everything, but Viganò in 2015 invited Kim Davis, the World Meeting of Families in Ireland, but he Washington Blade and is made available in it’s a start.” Kentucky county clerk who went to jail for cancelled his trip after the grand jury released partnership with the National LGBT Media refusing to issue marriage licenses to same- its report. The National Catholic Register and Association. other Catholic media outlets on Saturday sex couples, to meet with Francis at his D.C. published a letter from Archbishop Carlo home during his trip to the U.S. 12 BTL | August 30, 2018 www.PrideSource.com at VOICES OF FREEDOM Friday, October 19, 2018 | 6:00pm Grand Ballroom, MotorCity Casino Hotel Individual Guest: $125 | Table Sponsor: $1,750

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www.PrideSource.com August 30, 2018 | BTL 13 Photo: Gravitas Ventures ‘Kyle XY’ Alum Talks New Film, Living in the Hollywood Closet and Leaving L.A. to Focus on Fatherhood

BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI And then in 2013, Hollywood closet be What about horror appeals to you? I recently moved to Colorado, and my life has damned, Dallas came out publicly, matter- Honestly, I had done horror films early taken such a lifestyle shift. But it’s getting to att Dallas can laugh now, but his of-factly announcing his engagement to now- in my career and felt like I maxed out on play roles that I haven’t gotten to necessarily former life as a gay man living as a husband Blue Hamilton. In 2015, they adopted doing horror films, but when I read this play in the past, whether it be a pastor or a straight man wasn’t a joke. their son, Crow. screenplay I was excited about it because it villain or just things that are a part of myself MDallas was told to stay in the closet after Dallas’ latest project, “Along Came the Devil,” wasn’t necessarily a slasher film. It wasn’t just that I haven’t gotten to explore. That, for me, moving to L.A. to pursue acting at 18, is a fresh horror-genre venture for the 35-year- straight-up horror; it was such a throwback is the biggest attraction to a project now. particularly while portraying the boyishly cute old actor, who starred in a glut of slasher films at to the exorcism films of the ’60s and ’70s, How is life in Colorado? titular character with the non-existent navel on the onset of his career, including 2005’s “Camp so I was excited to get to do something that ABC Family’s 2006-launched teen sci-fi drama Slaughter” and 2008’s “Babysitter Wanted.” In played in a different world. And it played with Life is very different in Colorado. “Kyle XY.” Other roles followed: he starred this demonic endeavor he plays a pastor, the demons, and I loved the whole spiritual aspect Is this what happens when you become a alongside Hilary Duff in ABC Family’s 2010 kind you know only exists in the movies (if of it, and to play a pastor was something so father? You move to Colorado? TV film “Beauty & the Briefcase,” and also only they were this hot in real life). different for me, so it was an exciting way to played Katy Perry’s war-vet boyfriend in her Here, Dallas opens up about denying being come back to the genre. Honestly, that was a big part of it. I was going 2009 “Thinking of You” music video and, that gay on “The Howard Stern Show” (“the worst back and forth between L.A. and Phoenix same year, Rebecca Romijn’s love interest, Chad, day of my life”), how coming out freed him What are you looking for in projects at this point – I grew up in Phoenix; my family’s there on ABC’s supernatural dramedy “Eastwick.” and moving to Colorado to put family first. in your career? – and there was a part of me that felt like I 14 BTL | August 30, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Michigan’s Definitive LGBTQ-Friendly Wedding and Anniversary Guide wasn’t ready to necessarily totally walk away that you were gay. Have you followed up with from L.A. So, we sold our house in Phoenix Howard on this? and went back to L.A. for a few months and (Laughs) No. That was the last time I spoke to we were there for seven months. That seven him. Dude, that was just the worst day of my months was exactly what I needed to let my life. I woke up – it was 3 a.m. Los Angeles time MiLGBTWedding.com time in Los Angeles be what it was and move – to do this interview. I was so unprepared to onto the next chapter in my life. go on “Howard Stern,” and I should’ve known And it was a lot about being a father. better. My publicist told me at the time – Having a child in L.A., life was so much promised me, swore up and down – that he more difficult; that city is really just so would not bring up the whole gay thing. It consumed by industry that I wanted to shift wasn’t even a minute or two, and the whole my priorities so that it was family first, and let interview became about it. work be something that I love and enjoy, but not something that consumes my life. It was Fifteen minutes of you being asked how many a lot easier to do outside of Los Angeles, and women you’d slept with. yeah, my husband grew up in Colorado and It was brutal. I remember sweating and being it was always his dream to live in the Rocky so nervous the whole interview because I Mountains. And I love the mountains. It just was just not prepared to handle that. I was seemed like a natural next step for us. so naive, everything. And I literally hung up Earlier this year you did a throuple episode of from that and went and crawled in bed under your vlog “Matt and Blue” with model-director the blanket and would not get up that entire day. I just should not have taken that interview Max Emerson. A lot of strong opinions were to begin with, but I was like, “Howard Stern! A PROJECT OF shared on the internet about you two exploring My dad loves Howard Stern! I’m gonna do his being a throuple in that video. Is that something show!” And I was most embarrassed for my you’ve seriously considered? dad to hear it, more than anybody else. I was We actually did a whole series where we’re just like, “Ugh, my dad listening to me go on for 15 minutes about all the girls I slept with like, “We’re gonna just have fun and script To learn more contact [email protected] some things.” And it was supposed to be for in high school.” (Laughs) I can laugh about fun, but it’s crazy how many people really it now. Call 734-293-7200 ext. 22 took it seriously. But no, being in a throuple Do you think LGBTQ actors are still forced to stay is nothing we’d ever really considered. We just in the closet by Hollywood handlers? wanted to make something that is very true in the gay community and something that is Yeah, I’m sure, but we’re in a different place very relevant, and have fun with it. now. As a society, we’re more used to talking about it. So, these actors have seen other Do you think it’s easier now for actors to be out people go through this already; there are a from the get-go? lot more openly gay actors and more options One-hundred percent. I should say, I don’t of how to handle it now than there was then, know. It’s definitely a different time. When we when it was so swept under the rug. There were shooting “Kyle XY,” I still had agents at was no blueprint. the time and people telling me that I had to How did coming out change your career? hide being gay and had to work with a speech coach and go on carpets with a girl on my It freed me. And it allowed me to just give arm. We were just in a very different point less a fuck. It was very freeing as an artist, in society than we are now. I was in my early as an actor and just as a human being, and 20s, I had finally just had my first taste of real it changed a lot in that way. It also changed success, and felt like I could accomplish what in that, now, most of the roles I get sent are I had come to L.A. to do but like it was all for gay roles. Unless my team is actively going being taken away from me. I was so afraid after another role that’s not gay, the ones that of that happening, because I had so many come to me are mostly all gay roles. people in my head telling me how to act and How do you feel about that? how to behave. I was afraid to come out. Sure, people It doesn’t bother me. I’m glad there are a lot still are today. But I do think as a society more gay roles than there used to be. I do and an industry we have come so far. Now, think I should be — in the same way that we celebrate individuality. Especially in the every straight actor is considered for every industry, we still have a ways to go. We still gay role, gay actors should be considered just don’t see openly gay actors play leading men as much for straight roles. We’re on the path roles. You have “Love, Simon,” but we don’t to that. have an openly gay actor playing a superhero As editor of Q Syndicate, the international yet or playing a “Mission: Impossible” LGBTQ wire service, Chris Azzopardi has character. interviewed a multitude of superstars, including In 2006, you appeared on “The Howard Stern Meryl Streep, Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. Reach Show” and denied claims Perez Hilton had made him via his website at www.chris-azzopardi.com and on Twitter (@chrisazzopardi). www.PrideSource.com August 30, 2018 | BTL 15 YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD • YOUR MARKET Pinpoint your ad dollars where Cool Cities they will do the most good . . . Advertise in the next Cool Cities Royal Oak TO PLACE AN AD CALL 734.293.7200

16 BTL | August 30, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Five15 Offers Sip, Swish & Stroke Painting Classes Royal Oak Barktoberfest Starts Sept. 15 BY BTL STAFF BY BTL STAFF Known for its popular Drag Queen The Royal Oak Bingo events, Royal Oak’s Five15 Media, Chamber of Commerce Mojo, & More store is now offering a invites attendees to more creative outlet: Sip, Swish, & Stroke. discover Barktoberfest, a Attendees are invited to bring an open fall festival for dogs and mind as an instructor walks them through dog owners. Centered how to paint a picture on a canvas. around locally-brewed The cost of the event is $20 per person craft beer and music, this dog-friendly event is designed and must be purchased online in advance to bring together the community. of the event. Five15 is offering two “Barktoberfest encourages you to leash up your pooch September Sip, Swish, & Stroke events, pal and come out to enjoy a locally brewed beer, food and one on Wednesday, Sept. 12 at 6:30 p.m. live music while you browse vendor booths with everything and another on Sunday, Sept. 16 at 2 p.m. from pet-related products to locally made crafts to bottlecap In addition to its new painting classes, creations and cool wearables for craft beer collectors,” write Five15 regularly hosts community events. event organizers. “Dogs can compete in the Howl-a-ween “Since its inception, Five15 has hosted Costume Contest, a weiner dog race and more.” numerous complimentary events for the Guests are encouraged to bring their dogs, but human creative class including cabaret, author friends are welcome, too. There is a $5 entry fee, but signings, DVD releases, poetry readings, children 10 and under are free. IDs are required. Live scrip readings and art shows,” writes its entertainment will also be included in the event. The event website. will be held at Royal Oak’s Memorial Park, located at 13 Mile Road and Woodward Avenue. Five15 is located at 600 Washington Ave., Royal Oak. More information about the Those interested in exhibitor or sponsorship opportunities store can be found online at five15.net. should call Jennifer at 248-547-4000. Visit royaloakchamber. com for more information.

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18 BTL | August 30, 2018 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com August 30, 2018 | BTL 19 Detroit Jazz Fest The Detroit Jazz Festival is a free event that has nearly a 40-year history. This year marks the event’s 39th iteration, and it will run from Friday, Aug. 31 to Monday, Sept. 3. Attendees can see dozens of performers over the festival weekend, featuring such highlights as Dr. Valades Brass Band led by Shannon Powell, Chick Corea and the Julian Lage Trio. For more information about the weekend-long event, visit detroitjazzfest.org or reach out to [email protected].

meets the 1st Sunday of each month Joslyn Court,Lake Orion. 248-391-0663 Monday, September 10 @ Hilltop Counseling For Trans Youth www.stmarysinthehills.org http://www. OUTINGS Support Group information, contact standwithtrans.org Stand with Trans 2018 Support Groups Sunday, September 2 facilitator Socorro Sevilla, MSW: socorro@ – Macomb County 6:30 p.m. Macomb hilltopcounseling.org Hilltop Counseling, Teen/Youth Support Group: All youth are Stand with Trans Wyandotte Support Saturday, September 8 115 W. Maumee Street,Adrian. 313-909- welcome to attend this FREE group. Come Group for Trans Youth and Parents of 5408 www.standwithtrans.org http://www. Detroit: You’re So Unusual Bus Tour and meet other trans* youth and teens Trans Individuals 4pm There is no fee hilltopcounseling.org 12pm This fun, quirky Detroit bus tour and support each other through your to attend the groups. This group meets goes beyond the familiar local landmarks journeys. Dakota High School, 21051 21 the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month and showcases the cool, curious, Mile Road,Macomb. 586-723-2700 http:// @ St. Stephens Episcopal Church. For Tuesday, September 4 unfamiliar, and forgotten sites of interest www.chippewavalleyschools.org/schools/ Parent Support Group information, contact Stand with Trans 2018 Support Groups located within the city’s vast 139 square high-schools/dhs/ facilitator Kim Tooley, 734-747-4363. St. – Lake Orion / Oakland County 7pm miles. Join us for an 2934 Russell Street, Stephens Episcopal Church, 2803 1st FREE and OPEN to the community. For 2934 Russell St,Detroit. 313.757.1283 Wednesday, September 12 Street,Wyandotte. 734-747-4363 http:// parents of transgender kids, this group [email protected] www.standwithtrans.org meets the 1st Tuesday of each month @ [email protected] https:// Stand with Trans Youth Support Group St. Mary’s In-the-Hills Episcopal Church. citytourdetroit.com/detroit-youre-so- – Flint – Genessee 6:30 p.m. Free to Stand with Trans 2018 Support Groups Parent Support Group Facilitated by unusual-bus-tours/ https://citytourdetroit. all, Trans Youth Support Group meets – Adrian-Lenawee County 6:30 p.m. Lisa Goyette, ally, activist. St. Mary’s com/detroit-youre-so-unusual-bus-tours/ the 2nd Wednesday of each month @ FREE and OPEN to the community. For In The Hills Episcopal Church, 2512 Unitarian Universalist Congregation of parents of transgender kids, this group Flint. Facilitator Sara Griffin, MA,LPC

Werq The World Takes Detroit Fan-favorite stars from the popular TV show “RuPaul’s Drag Race” will head to Detroit on Wednesday, Sept. 12 for a unique performance that highlights each of the queens’ unique drag talents. The show will also include Aquaria, the season 10 winner of the competition show’s grand prize. More information about the showtime and ticketing information can be found online at vossevents.com.

20 BTL | August 30, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Resource Center, 30 Frank Lloyd Wright Native Art Department International and stage presence, her subject Drive,Ann Arbor. 7349303030 hruud@ more. stamps gallery, 201 S. Division matter ranges from the delightfully ozonehouse.org [email protected] Street,Ann Arbor. https://stamps.umich. absurd to the monumentally www.dominos.com http://ozonehouse.org/ edu/exhibitions/detail/have-we-met serious. Rolling Stone Fountain calendar-old/evening-with-ozonehouse/ Street Church, 24 Fountain Street NE,Grand Rapids. 616-459-8386 [email protected] THEATER [email protected] https:// ART ‘N’ AROUND Bruno Mars Comes to Detroit Wicked is Flying Back to Detroit! 8pm www.fountainstreet.org/ https:// Star Wars and the Power of Costume 9am Star Wars™ and the Power of Costume Back By Popular Demand!! WICKED, Fans of Bruno Mars’ unique blend of funk, pop, hip-hop fusionshows.com/events/tig-notaro- the Broadway sensation, looks at what 09-29-18-fountain-street-church/ explores the challenges in dressing the and rhythm and blues now have two options to see the Star Wars universe from the Galactic happened in the Land of Oz … but from a different angle. The untold true story of 11-time Grammy Award winning artist in concert. He will Senate and royalty to the Jedi, Sith MUSIC & and Droids™. Featuring more than 60 the Witches of Oz transfixes audiences. be performing two back-to-back shows at Detroit’s Little hand-crafted costumes. Detroit Institute Detroit Opera House, 1526 Broadway Caesars Arena on Saturday, Sept. 15 and on Sunday, Sept. of Arts, 2100 Woodward Ave.,Detroit. St.,Detroit. 313-237-SING https://www. MORE broadwayindetroit.com/shows/wicked 16. Both show are at 8 p.m. and more details can be found 313-833-7900 https://www.dia.org/ Life Tour – Boy George and Culture starwarsattheDIA A2CT Auditions for Arsenic and Old online at ticketmaster.com. Club and The B-52s @ DTE Energy 21st Annual Ford Arts, Beats & Eats Lace September 4, 7:30 p.m. Auditions Music Theatre August 30, 7pm HUGE for Arsenic and Old Lace, directed by news, 80s music fans!! Boy George Returns to Royal Oak! August 31, 11 a.m. The festival offers more than 200 Alexandra Duncan, will take place on and Culture Club are reuniting in Tuesday, 9/4 and Wednesday, 9/5 at 7:30 2018 for a huge North American performances on nine stages, a highly ranked Juried Fine Arts Show, and local p.m. at the A2CT Studio. More info www. tour with “The World’s Greatest a2ct.org/audition. A2CT Studio Theatre, Party Band,” The B-52s. DTE Energy restaurants with some of the finest cuisine in Metro-Detroit. Each year international, 322 W. Ann St.,Ann Arbor. 734-971-2228 Arbor. 734-995-9867 lawrencemoebs@ www.motorcitycasino.com/soundboard. Music Theatre, 7774 Sashabaw http://www.a2ct.org/audition ® gmail.com [email protected] aspx http://www.ruthelliscenter.org/get- Road,Clarkston. 248-377-0100 http:// regional and local attractions. Downtown Happenings https://speakout.toastmastersclubs.org/ involved/attend-an-event/ www.dteenergymusictheatre.org/ Royal Oak, Main St/Washington/ A2CT Presents: Dirty Rotten Scoundrels Continued from p. 20 http://www.dteenergymusictheatre. Lafayette,Royal Oak. http://artsbeatseats. September 6, 7:30 p.m. Based on the 1988 Saturday, September 15 Friday, September 28 org/events/boy-george-culture-club/#. com/ movie of the same name, this hysterical Wyqus6dKiUk Saline Antiques Market September musical comedy with a delightfully U.P. Pride Fest 12pm Join us for Upper Tig Notaro at Masonic Temple 6:30 jazzy score lets audiences tag along to Michigan’s FIFTH ANNUAL PRIDE FEST. p.m. Tig Notaro is a groundbreaking 21st Annual Ford Arts, Beats & Eats 9, 9 a.m. Since the Saline Antiques & is a psychotherapist and a parent of Vintage Market debuted a few years the French Riviera. Lydia Mendelssohn a transgender son, [email protected] This year’s event will feature a deaf stand-up comedian, actor, writer, producer, Returns to Royal Oak! August 31, Theatre, 911 North University,Ann Arbor. speaker, kids activities, a drag show, and and director. Hailed for her effortless 11 a.m. The festival offers more than ago, it has been our goal to offer a Unitarian Universalist Congregation quality monthly market for your buying 734-763-3333 http://www.a2ct.org/shows/ of Flint, 2474 S. Ballenger Hwy,Flint. lots of other entertainment and vendors! storytelling and fearless stage presence, 200 performances on nine stages, a dirty-rotten-scoundrels Tourist Park, ,Marquette. uprainbowpride@ her subject matter ranges from the highly ranked Juried Fine Arts Show, enjoyment. Washtenaw Farm Council 810-232-4023 uuflint.org http://www. Grounds, 5055 Ann Arbor-Saline Road,Ann standwithtrans.org gmail.com [email protected] delightfully absurd to the monumentally and local restaurants with some of The Totalitarians by Pete Sinn http://www.uprainbowpride.org/ http:// serious. Detroit Masonic Temple, 3011 W. the finest cuisine in Metro-Detroit. Arbor. 734-761-2796 salinemarket@ Nachtrieb September 7, 8pm Politician www.uprainbowpride.org/pridefest2018- Grand Blvd, #f100,Detroit. 800-854-2196 Downtown Royal Oak, Main St/ gmail.com [email protected] Penelope Easter is a disaster of a Thursday, September 13 mainpage [email protected] donelle@ Washington/Lafayette,Royal Oak. www.foodgatherers.org http://www. candidate: impulsive and crass, with a Detroit Regional LGBT Chamber pridesource.com templedetroit.com https:// http://artsbeatseats.com/ salineantiquesmarket.com/ closet full of skeletons. Theatre NOVA, of Commerce Merge & Mixer 6:30 Tuesday, September 18 www.themasonic.com/events.php Have We Met: Dialogues on Memory 410 w Huron,Ann Arbor. 7346358450 p.m. Michigan Employee Resource Matrix Theatre Presents the [email protected] Health is The Gift You Give Yourself 6:30 7th Annual Cabaret Fundraiser and Desire September 21, 6pm Curated Groups for Equality (MERGE) Monthly Saturday, September 29 by Srimoyee Mitra. Artists include Rudolf [email protected] http://www. Networking Event. All are welcomed to p.m. Health begins to decline for most September 14, 7:30 p.m. Kate Brennan theatrenova.org Americans when they reach middle age. Mega March for Animals, Presented by and Harvey Reed are back for their 7th Baranik, Al Loving, Michele Oka Doner, network. Host by: Detroit Regional LGBT Emory Douglas, Stephanie Dinkins, Chamber of Commerce. Check website Yet this doesn’t happen in areas of the Sellers Subaru 9am Join an estimated annual cabaret and this year’s theme world where a Whole Food Plant-Based 1,000 supporters of the Michigan Humane is “Tears and Laughter.” Hop on this Brendan Fernandes, Chitra Ganesh, Carole for monthly location, RSVP is Required. Harris, Maren Hassinger, Josh MacPhee, Soho, 205 W. 9 Mile Road,Ferndale. lifestyle is the cultural norm. Groves High Society and their dogs as they walk up emotional roller coaster and enjoy 248-542-7646 info@detroitlgbtchamber. School, 20500 West 13 Mile Road,Beverly to two miles along the scenic Detroit an evening of memorable songs that com [email protected] Hills. 248-919-8726 www.pbnsg.org http:// RiverWalk. Detroit RiverWalk, Cullen span Matrix Theatre Company, 2730 www.ferndalesoho.com http://www. www.pbnsg.org/events Plaza (formerly Rivard Plaza),Detroit. Bagley St.,Detroit. 313-967-0599 info@ detroitlgbtchamber.com 313-566-8200 events@michiganhumane. matrixtheatre.org info@matrixtheatre. Wednesday, September 19 org [email protected] org https://www.matrixtheatre.org/ Stand with Trans 2018 Support Groups http://detroitriverfront.org/riverfront/ https://app.arts-people.com/index. Stand with Trans Support Groups – – Farmington Hills – Oakland County east-riverfront/cullen-plaza http://www. php?actions=4&p=34 7pm All youth are welcome to attend Livonia – Wayne County 6:30 p.m. Free MichiganHumane.org/megamarch this FREE group. This group meets the to all, group meets the 3rd Wednesday of Health is The Gift You Give Yourself 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month each month @ Emmanuel Lutheran Church. 10th Annual Fall Fundraiser – An September 18, 6:30 p.m. Health begins at Orchard United Methodist Church. Parent Support Group Faciitators Karen Evening with Ozone House 6:30 p.m. to decline for most Americans when Oakland United Methodist Church, 30450 Sessler, [email protected] or 734-673- Ozone House, based in Ann Arbor,is a non- they reach middle age. Yet this doesn’t Farmington Road,Farmington. 248-626- 3590 and Scott Sessler, pastorscott@ profit organization that works to “meet the happen in areas of the world where 3620 www.oaklandumc.org http://www. emmanuel-livonia.org or 734-673-2485. needs of runaway, homeless, and high-risk a Whole Food Plant-Based lifestyle is standwithtrans.org Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 34567 7 Mile youth and their families. Domino’s World the cultural norm. Groves High School, Road,Livonia. http://www.standwithtrans. Resource Center, 30 Frank Lloyd Wright 20500 West 13 Mile Road,Beverly Toastmasters International SpeakOUT! org Drive,Ann Arbor. 7349303030 hruud@ Hills. 248-919-8726 www.pbnsg.org LGBTQ Meeting 7pm Professional ozonehouse.org [email protected] http://www.pbnsg.org/events & personal communication skills Thursday, September 27 www.dominos.com http://ozonehouse.org/ development. With better communications calendar-old/evening-with-ozonehouse/ 10th Annual Fall Fundraiser – An 6pm skills, you’ll better your leadership style 2018 Voices – A Detroit Legacy Evening with Ozone House 6:30 Save the date for 2018 Voices, VIP as well as your relationships. Warm & Tig Notaro at Fountain Street Church p.m. Ozone House, based in Ann Reception at 6pm, Main Event at 7pm. welcoming members. Find out what in Grand Rapids! 7:30 p.m. Tig Notaro Arbor,is a non-profit organization that Tickets available at www.ruthelliscenter. Toastmasters can do for you. Jim Toy is a groundbreaking stand-up comedian, works to “meet the needs of runaway, org Motor City Casino Sound Board, 2901 Community Center, 319 Braun Court,Ann actor, writer, producer, and director. Hailed homeless, and high-risk youth Grand River Ave.,Detroit. 313-309-4700 for her effortless storytelling and fearless and their families. Domino’s World

www.PrideSource.com August 30, 2018 | BTL 21 Deep Inside Hollywood BY ROMEO SAN VICENTE (“Fracture”). We’re hoping it’s a nice period 1982 series, with all the fashion adventures and new wavey details that promises. And it had Documentary Now!’ loves better be bleak, like no-holds-barred, really, ‘Company’ really, bleak. Otherwise you might as well just watch “Degrassi.” We see you out there, those of you devoted to “Documentary ‘Silent Life’ explores Now!” You’re not the mainstream TV viewer, bisexual golden age to be sure, but you know “Twin Peaks”’ Audrey Horne, a good Bill Hader-as- actress Sherilyn Fenn, has a new role. Spalding Gray segment She’s playing bisexual silent film star and Errol Morris parody Alla Nazimova in what’s being called when you see one, and a “fantasy biopic” about Rudolph that means you deserve Valentino (translation: maybe it some kind of television happened, maybe not, probably not, entertainment. Well, Lisa Cholodenko. but it’s fine). From director Vladislav the upcoming season Photo: KathClick Kozlov, “Silent Life” will explore of the acclaimed IFC cinema’s first male sex symbol in a series, created by story that toggles from past to present. former “Saturday Night Live” cast members It co-stars Isabella Rossellini, Franco Nero and Fred Armisen, Seth Meyers and Hader, which director Kozlov as Valentino, but we’re most in each episode parodies a different classic excited about Fenn’s character, the legendary documentary – from “Grey Gardens” to “Stop Nazimova. The acclaimed Russian stage actress Making Sense” – is going to get even more moved to Hollywood and earned a lot of money specific. They’ll be tackling D.A. Pennebaker’s in silent films, eventually opting to produce 1970 film, “Original Cast Album: Company.” and write them, too. She was also notorious It featured the first cast of Stephen Sondheim’s for her Hollywood lesbian clique, known as legendary musical – Dean Jones, Elaine Stritch, the “Sewing Circle,” and for the wild parties Beth Howland, Donna McKechnie – as they she threw at her mansion called “The Garden spent all night in a recording studio working on of Alla.” In post-production now, expect this the cast album for that show. The “DN!” version one sometime in 2019. of this will be called “Original Cast Album: Co- Op” and will feature guest stars Taran Killam (“SNL”), James Urbaniak (“Venture Bros.”), ‘Toni Erdmann’ loses Nicholson, comedian John Mulaney, Tony Award-winning gains Cholodenko star of “Hamilton,” Renee Elise Goldsberry, and “School of Rock”’s Alex Brightman. We’ll Update time: that American version of “Toni be watching, if for no other reason than to see Erdmann” is still happening, but everything who’ll be singing the fake version of “Ladies has changed. We loved the critically acclaimed Who Lunch.” German comedy from filmmaker Maren Ade. It’s about an unhappy, middle-aged woman stuck in a joyless, dead end corporate job, Brace yourself for more ‘Less and her elderly weirdo of a father who keeps Than Zero’ trying to jolt her out of her miserable rut by forcing her to participate in a series of pranks If you were around during the 1980s, you played on the world around them. The English- remember “Less Than Zero,” the shocking novel language version went into development almost that exposed the depraved lives of a bunch of immediately, with Lena Dunham attached to fictional rich kids in Los Angeles. There were direct, and Kristen Wiig and Jack Nicholson things in that book that cannot be described in to star. At this point, however, Wiig is still in, polite company even now, and it put its young Nicholson has dropped out, as has Dunham, author Bret Easton Ellis on the map. Then came and Lisa Cholodenko (“The Kids Are All Right”) a hilariously dorky just-say-not-to-drugs-and- is now slated to direct. We think Cholodenko behave-yourself film version in 1987 starring is a wise choice here; the story requires a Andrew McCarthy, Jami Gertz and Robert strong female perspective. And though we’re Downey Jr. What endures from that debacle is a a little bummed not to see Nicholson make very cool soundtrack album and a cult following his comeback here, because the role seems of snickering Gen Xers. Now Hulu has decided tailor made for him, now the field is wide open to give it another go, this time as a TV series for any number of older actors looking for a from “Lost” writer-producer Craig Wright. chance to go very, very odd. Somebody call It’ll star “The Walking Dead”’s Austin Abrams Gene Hackman. as Clay, the bisexual drug-addicted college freshman home for Christmas break contending Romeo San Vicente stans for “Poseidon with his equally drugged friends, as well as Lily Adventure”-era peak Hackman swagger. Donoghue (“The Goldbergs”) and Cooper Koch 22 BTL | August 30, 2018 www.PrideSource.com 39 Middle name of Harris, partner of 10 Greek victim of “Wax on, wax David Burtka off”? 40 Ambulance letters 11 Ellen, partner of Portia de Rossi 41 Cartoon prince’s son 12 Head output 42 Vidal essay collection 13 Story of valor 43 Poet ___ Wu 18 The A in GLARP (abbr.) 44 “Forget about it!” 22 Torso in a Mapplethorpe pic, e.g. 46 It goes on top in a trattoria 24 Tendency towards chaos 48 At a future time 26 Suffix with “dream,” on 51 Like rival divas Broadway? 55 Ann-___ of “Grease” 27 Wolfe or Woolf, e.g. (abbr.) 57 What teams do when balls are 29 Caesar’s city kicked at them 30 Fair-to-middling 59 Poker pot input 31 Sergei of “The Opposite of Sex” 60 Partner of Jane Wagner 32 Emperor role of Charles 62 Cleopatra’s eyeliner Laughton 63 Writer Dykewomon 33 Gus, partner of Matthew Wilkas 64 “___ the end of my rope!” 35 What a hoar! 65 Fruit-flavored ice cream maker 36 Perfect serves from Mauresmo 66 Digs for pigs 39 Bill settler 67 Pink-slips 43 Like a family pole Power Couples QPuzzle 45 Kushner’s “ ___ in America” 47 Word after fish, in slang 20 Prepared it for safe intercourse Down 49 Takes out of the text Across 21 Turn tail 1 Sounded like Sneaky Pie 50 Not quite erect 1 Large openings 23 Eager beavers 2 Hersey’s bell town 52 One of the Flintstones 5 Disconcert 24 Evasive maneuver by a bottom? 3 Recoil from too much S&M 53 Like a sweet bird of youth 10 Allen Ginsberg’s affirmative 25 Like Machu Picchu 4 David of “Naked” fame 54 Leases out 14 Warhol pal ___ Sedgwick 28 Visitors at advocate.com 5 Altar spot 55 Wham’s “ ___ It Big” 15 Coastal city of Portugal 31 Makes tats 6 “Gay Priest” author Malcolm 56 Give ___ of approval 16 Give up what sounds like sperm? 34 Defeated George Frenn 7 Where to find a bear pair 57 Former Cub Sandberg 17 Partner of Alex Niedbalski 37 Kanga’s baby 8 Like a master, to a slave 58 Cockpit predictions 19 Processes wine or cheese 38 Turtleneck alternative 9 Cheated, slangily 61 “Love Story” compose

www.PrideSource.com August 30, 2018 | BTL 23 COMMUNITY CONNECTION New Support Group Starts for Young Trans Men at Ruth Ellis Center

BY JASON A. MICHAEL suicides. I build relationships with is so much different on the body that them one on one.” (estrogen) hormones. It’s much easier hey’re a marginalized minority Parker did outreach at Ferndale to put something strong in you than within a marginalized Pride, Motor City Pride and Hotter to take something strong away. So minority and often overlooked Than July promoting his new group. there’s this sense that once a lot of Twhen we scan the periphery “With me, these men can just be trans start their testosterone they’re underneath the rainbow umbrella. themselves,” said Parker. “If they need much more passable. So much of the Now Rimonte’ Parker, a youth peer support then I got them. When they violence decreases and the stigma, leader at the Ruth Ellis Center, has need family support, someone to the overall stigma of what passability started a group for young trans men talk to, I have all of the resources – looks like for those who wants to and he’s calling it NuiiWaav. anything they want to know.” pass, is not there.” “It’s just a new era,” Parker, 28, told Syncere, a trans man who regularly Trans men are more likely to blend Between The Lines. “It’s a whole new attends the group, credits Parker and into the crowd, and they often go era. It’s something different and we’re his group for supporting him as he along to get along. like the unknown.” started to transition. “I feel like the reason there’s more Parker, a native Detroiter, first “They did a lot for me as far as attention to trans women is they’re came to REC when he was just 16. helping me get on T (sic) and helping more out,” said Parker. “Trans men, “Everybody was talking about we me transition,” he said. “I feel like they blend in like chameleons. Now should go to the center,” he recalled. Remi is actually doing a huge thing that I’m bringing it out, they’re “And I was like what kind of center? for our community because a lot of coming out. I just didn’t want to So I came in and I ain’t never stopped places we don’t get no support. Trans keep struggling looking for help. coming.” women get a lot of support but there’s Most definitely trans women do get Two years ago, Parker decided to nothing for the trans man. So I feel more than trans men. But I want to officially transition and began taking Remi is doing something really great.” help both.” testosterone while under the medical Lilianna Reyes, interim executive supervision of one of REC’s doctors. director of Affirmations and co- Eventually, Parker became a youth executive director of the Trans Sistas NuiiWaav is open to trans men age peer leader with the center and in of Color Project, confirmed that trans 16 to 20. The group meets at the that capacity came up with the idea to men do often get overlooked. Ruth Ellis Center on Monday from start the support group for trans men. “They are really an invisible 4 to 5 p.m. The Ruth Ellis Center is “Ruth Ellis was open arms,” he said. culture,” Reyes said. “I would say located at 77 Victor St. in Highland “They let us in. I mentor these men. that trans men often get overlooked Park. For more information, email I help them mentally, physically and for a few reasons. One part of that is Rimonte’ Parker has started a new support group for young trans men at Ruth Ellis Center. Rimonte’ Parker at remi.rimonte@ emotionally. I prevent homicides and their privilege to pass. Testosterone Photo courtesy of Rimonte’ Parker. ruthelliscenter.org. Lansing Protest March Draws Attention to Nationwide Prisoner Strike

BY BTL STAFF tactical team that started a riot and cost the state almost $1 million,” Stark said. “This August LANSING – A group of community we have another opportunity to listen to what members, formerly incarcerated people prisoners are saying about why prisons do not and anti-prison activists, marched through solve our society’s problems.” downtown Lansing to raise awareness about the beginning of a nationwide prisoner strike. The 2018 national prisoner strike began on They marched from the city’s Durant Park to the August 21, and will continue through Sept. Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC) 9. The national action is organized and led building, where they held a rally. The march by prisoners around the country who have was organized to coincide with the first week already begun engaging in hunger strikes, work of a nationwide prisoner strike, and march stoppages and other actions to protest their participants stressed the importance of paying living conditions. Their demands include “an attention to the demands of the prisoners. immediate end to prison slavery” as well as “Prisoners around the country are putting various other demands related to sentencing a lot at risk to organize this strike, and Prisoner Solidarity (MAPS). “At Kinross you saw a situation where we’re here to make sure that their demands reform and racism. The group has compared this strike to prisoners peacefully presented a set of extremely can’t be ignored,” said Alejo Stark, a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Michigan and the September 2016 rebellion at Kinross reasonable demands, but the prison officials, Find out more about MAPS and a full list of the spokesperson for Michigan Abolition and Correctional Facility. instead of engaging in dialogue, called in a prisoner demands at michiganabolition.org. 24 BTL | August 30, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Find over 300 Non-Profit Listings Serving Michigan’s LGBTQ Online @ pridesource.com

AIDS/HIV Oakland University Gender Fair Michigan & Sexuality Center PO Box 6136 There are dozens of AIDS/HIV [email protected] Plymouth, MI 48170 Get Listed, Promote MICHIGAN'S LGBTQ ANNUAL MAGAZINE organizations and resources listed www.oakland.edu/gsc 877-432-4764, 313-556-2300 248-370-4336 Your Events at www.PrideSource.com. Here are fairmichigan.org 2018 - 2019 FREE • ONLINE • IN PRINT E N just three of them: Eastern Michigan Facebook.com/fairmichigan2016 You can add or update any O F G A G L S E M University listing by going to www. O E O N AIDS Walk Detroit LGBT Resource Center Know Your RIghts Project PrideSource.com and clicking T T Contact info@aidswalkdetroit. emich.edu/lgbtrc Outlaws U-M student group on Yellow Pages. Once you org or 248-399-9255 for more 734-487-4149 [email protected] submit your listing, our staff information. The walk takes place The Lawrence Tech LGBT 734-995-9867 will contact you to confirm INCLUDES your information. OVER 1,000 this year on Sunday, Sept. 15, 8:30 Resource Center LGBTQ-FRIENDLY You can add your event to BUSINESSES & a.m. at the Royal Oak Farmers ltu.edu/student_affairs/lgbt.asp ORGANIZATIONS Market Wayne State JIGSAW Older Adults the Pride Source Calendar Facebook.com/groups/ online and in print by going SAGE Metro Detroit to www.PrideSource.com Macomb County STD Clinic WayneStateJIGSAW 290 W. Nine Mile Rd. Ferndale, MI and clicking on Calendar, 27690 Van Dyke [email protected] 313-578-6812 then “Add Event.” Send Warren, MI 48093 sagemetrodetroit.org any press releases and SHOP THE RAINBOW 586-465-9217 Facebook: SAGE Metro Detroit From the Publishers of Support Equality Vendors http://health.macombgov. Community Centers announcements to editor@ www.Pridesource.com pridesource.com org/Health-Programs-HPDC- Michigan has nine active LGBTQ HIVAIDSCounselingTesting community centers, with a tenth Political planned in Lansing. Here are The LGBT and Allies Matrix Ryan White HIV/ three of them. Caucus of the Michigan AIDS Program Democratic Party 120 Parsons Street Find a digital version of PrideSource Magazine Jim Toy Community Center Facebook.com/TheLGBTA- Detroit, MI 48201 Ann Arbor CaucusoftheMDP online under Our LGBT Yellow Pages 888-226-6366 www.jimtoycenter.org. Stonewall for Revolution 248-545-1435 www.facebook.com/jimtoycenter www.facebook.com/ www.matrixhumanservices.org/ or follow them on Twitter @ stonewall4reolution programs/ryanwhite/ JimToyCenter. Find these resources online 319 Braun Court UNIFIED - HIV Health and Ann Arbor, MI Professional Groups Trans Sistas of Color Adoption Services Beyond 734-995-9867 Project AIDS/HIV Hotlines 3011 W. Grand Blvd. Suite 230 Detroit Regional LGBT 19641 W. 7 Mile Rd. in Detroit AIDS/HIV Organizations Chamber of Commerce Detroit, MI 48202 LGBT Detroit 313-537-7000 Ext 107 Alzheimer’s Association P.O. Box 32446 Animal Shelter 313-446-9800 Detroit [email protected] Detroit, MI 48232 Anti-Violence www.miunified.org www.lgbtdetroit.org. www.facebook.com/TSCOPD/ detroitlgbtchamber.com Archives/Collections Michigan HIV/STD Hotline www.facebook.com/lgbtdetroit 1-800-DET-LGBT Campus; Student and Alumni Groups 800-872-2437 @LGBTDetroit. Youth Cancer Support Groups 20025 Greenfield Road Choruses Detroit, MI Ties Like Me Ruth Ellis Center Community Centers Advocacy Phone: 313-397-2127 Professional networking events 77 Victor Street, Highland Park, MI Employee Resource Groups third Weds. 5:30 - 8 p.m. 48203 Equality Michigan Families and Parents Affirmations TiesLikeMe.org [email protected] 19641 W. 7 Mile, Detroit, MI Suits And The City Foster Care Ferndale Facebook: Ruth Ellis Center 313-537-7000 Lansing, MI Foundations and Funders http://goaffirmations.org 313-252-1950 equalitymi.org [email protected] Hotlines & Switchboards www.facebook.com/Affirmations/ Facebook.com/equalitymichigan www.suitsandthecity.org Labor Union or follow them on Twitter @ Ozone House Legal Organizations Campus GoAffirmations. 102 N. Hamilton Street Museums 290 W. Nine Mile Road Transgender Ypsilanti, MI Music Groups Ferndale, MI 734-662-2265 Currently there are 19 FtM Detroit National Organizations organizations listed as active online 248-398-7105 734-662-2222 https://www.facebook.com/ Political Organizations at www.pridesource.com/yellow FtMDetroit/ Professional Organizations pages. The following are some in Stand With Trans Legal [email protected]. Religious & Spiritual the southeast Michigan area: Farmington, MI Senior Living American Civil Liberties www.standwithtrans.org FtM A2 Ypsi Seniors U-M Ann Arbor Union of Michigan 248-739-9254 Social/Community Organizations [email protected] Spectrum Center Jay Kaplan, Staff Attorney, LGBT Sports https://www.facebook.com/ [email protected] Project Substance Abuse ftma2ypsi/ http://spectrumcenter.umich.edu 2966 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI Transgender Groups/Services 734-763-4186 www.aclumich.org Women’s Health 313-578-6800 Transgender Michigan Youth Services 23211 Woodward Ave. Ferndale, MI [email protected] www.transgendermichigan.org 800-842-2954 www.PrideSource.com August 30, 2018 | BTL 25 COMMUNITY CONNECTION AIDS Walk Detroit 2018 Called Off Due Affirmations Senior Koffee Klatch Continues to Grow to Construction Woes in Royal Oak

BY JASON A. MICHAEL Organizers Plan Will Move Walk to Detroit in 2019

t’s the fastest growing group at Affirmations and without BY JASON A. MICHAEL district in an attempt to find a suitable Nine partner agencies raised funds a doubt one of the center’s most successful; the Senior location. We also explored numerous through AIDS Walk Detroit in 2017 Koffee Klatch continues to grow by leaps and bounds. rganizers of AIDS Walk Detroit options in surrounding communities and totaling $46,721.31. The largest amount I“They literally have outgrown every room at Affirmations,” recently announced their downtown. Unfortunately, there was not was raised by HELP, the organization said Affirmations Interim Executive Director Lilianna Reyes decision to cancel this year’s another site available on or around the fall that produces the walk, at $31,310. at a recent community chat at the center. “We always love it Owalk. Organizers say the large amount walk date that would suit the logistical The second and third highest were when people say they need more room.” of construction that has overtaken needs of the event.” Affirmations and Unified with $4,882 One of the center’s oldest groups, its origins trace back to downtown Royal Oak would make the Though plans are already in the works and $3,331 respectively. The AIDS Walk before the current center location was even built. walk difficult if not impossible. to revive the walk in 2019, Roscoe said Detroit website is still available for partner “When I was involved in the group originally it was a bigger “As a result of the development the walk will not return to Royal Oak. agencies to utilize. Although this year’s group and then it devolved into a group of about nine people,” construction taking place in downtown “Royal Oak has been a wonderful home walk has canceled, anyone who wishes said Rosemary Ruppert, the group’s facilitator. “Out of the Royal Oak and the limited timeframe we for the walk since 1991,” she said. “We are to contribute to support partner agencies nine, four us of committed to being facilitators. And it just had to plan for an alternative location, exploring moving the event to Detroit may do so through Oct. 31, 2018. Any started to grow. The major problem for older LGBTQ people we decided to cancel this year’s event,” next year for several reasons. The HIV funds designated for partner agencies will is that sense of isolation and this breaks that up.” said AIDS Walk Detroit President Teresa epidemic in Michigan today most heavily be directed to them in early December. Today, the group averages upwards of 30 attendees at their Roscoe. “We wanted to be certain that the impacts people who live in the City of Lilianna Reyes, interim executive weekly meetings. At the community chat last week, Ruppert execution of the 2018 AIDS Walk Detroit Detroit. That makes a Detroit location director of Affirmations, said her agency had to put in a request for additional tables to accommodate was at the highest level for participants, very relevant in 2019. There has also been will miss the money they traditionally their increase in attendance. agency partners, corporate sponsors and a great deal of excitement expressed by receive from the walk this year. “I think there is a need and I think that it’s gone through the overall brand itself.” partner agencies, sponsors and walkers “We’re definitely going to see a little various different people and it’s just hit its stride and more Roscoe said it was in late May when a about the potential to bring new attention deficiency because of it,” she said. “It’s and more people are finding out about it,” Ruppert said. “The contact at the Royal Oak Farmer’s Market, and enthusiasm to the cause by moving going to hit us a little bit but it shouldn’t group runs itself. I’m the facilitator but, basically, I’m more where the walk usually begins and ends, into the city.” affect us too bad.” like a tennis referee; they volley across the room.” alerted organizers that construction was Roscoe at her team are currently Reyes said she is happy the walk will People, said Ruppert, are attracted to the group for various beginning in the area where the walk was completing permit requests and plan to be moving to Detroit. reasons. traditionally held. submit them in September, “which is the “We are looking forward to working “We have people who have had long time relationships “We received confirmations that earliest we are able to apply for an event in with Corktown Health and HELP next where a partner has died and there isn’t a whole lot of family the site was affected and would not be the fall of 2019. We are also planning to year,” she said. “We’re really excited that and they’re basically coming back into the community and available from the Royal Oak Police meet with appropriate city departments to they’re talking about moving it to Detroit making those connections,” she said. “When I was younger Department in early June,” said Roscoe. discuss the event and the addition of a 5K because it’s AIDS Walk Detroit and that’s we would say that our friends were our family of choice. “The Royal Oak Police Department run, which requires additional logistics where it should be.” Our families weren’t always accepting but we made our own assisted us with contacts at the school and approvals.” families and that continues to be true.” After meetings, most of the group goes out for what they call afterglow and share a meal at a nearby restaurant. Throughout the week, members communicate through Facebook. “We can post pictures,” said Ruppert. “People go on vacation and make us jealous by posting pics of the fun they’re having Outvisible Kicks Off Season with and the great food they’re eating. And their new puppies.” Ruppert said the group is comprised of some remarkable individuals. ‘Unsportsmanlike Conduct’ on Sept. 21 “We have people who have an enormous amount of history in the building of this community,” she said. “We are a pioneering group of people and everything that’s happened since Stonewall we created.” BY BTL STAFF this incredibly famous football player gets significant plays that provoke audiences, With age comes wisdom but, for LGBTQ seniors, loneliness accused of rape, and the show presents raising important questions without can often come along as well. ALLEN PARK — Outvisible Theatre the he said/she said argument in a smart necessarily providing easy answers.” “We’ve lived long lives,” said Ruppert. “We’ve lived in the Company opens its third season but entirely ambiguous way. The audience Fans of “Unsportsmanlike Conduct” community and our degree of separation is real slim. We all with a world premiere production of will have to decide for themselves what might find parallels between the play’s know each other. And the fact that we can just sit there and “Unsportsmanlike Conduct” by New happened, and I think it will make for subject matter and the rise of #MeToo talk to each other is so much fun. You’re never too old to York City-based playwright Jeff Stolzer. a lot of interesting discussions for our movement, which the work aims to make new friends.” Directed by Outvisible’s Artistic Director, audience on their car ride home.” highlight, say event organizers. Adriane Galea, the production will run Stolzer is also excited the show is being The Senior Koffee Klatch meets at Affirmations on Wednesday Sept. 21 through Oct. 7. produced by Outvisible, which describes Outvisible Theatre Company is located at from 1 to 3 p.m. Affirmations is located at 290 W Nine Mile “I’ve been describing ‘Unsportsmanlike its mission as producing thought- 18614 Ecorse Road in Allen Park, inside of Road. For more information, call 248-398-7105. Conduct’ as very ‘Law and Order’-esque provoking, intelligent plays. Stolzer noted Arts Detroit. For more information about and extremely relevant,” said the show’s the small Allen Park theater company tickets and showtimes, call 313-355-8340 director, Adriane Galea. “We watch as as being, “Committed to doing socially or visit outvisibletheatre.com.

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