JACK BLACK ON GOING (MAYBE) GAY

NAACPBACKS MARRIAGE EQUALITY DHARUN RAVI SENTENCED TO 30 DAYS IN JAIL

LEADING TONY JOHNSON LETS LIFE’S CHALLENGES BY EXAMPLE BE HIS GUIDE

PRIDESOURCE.COM MAY 24, 2012 | VOL. 2021 | FREE 2 BTL \ May 24, 2012 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com May 24, 2012 / BTL 3 5.24.2012 Cover story 11 | Creep of the Week 4 | Leading by example Charles L. Worley Tony Johnson lets life’s challenges be his guide. BTL Photo: Andrew Potter 12 | S/he Said Political atmosphere News 12 | Heard on Facebook Gov. Granholm and Will Smith 6 | Between Ourselves Garnet Lewis 13 | Viewpoint Lets make that change, okay? 7 | Agema ascends to national Republican committee slot 13 | Parting Glances Anti-gay legislator known for Pages past tense #11 attack on partner benefits

7 | BTL needs you Volunteer during June Pride Month Life

8 | Eleven young leaders emerge 19 | Jack Black (maybe) goes gay Actor talks playing a real-life man 9 | Obama stance adds fuel in marriage who might be gay in “Bernie” battlegrounds 20 | Hear Me Out 9 | Arsonist torches lesbian couple’s Novi Adam Lambert gets real on “Trespassing.” home Plus: Santigold’s revolution-ready LP

9 | Disinvited gay speaker addresses prep 27 | Cool Cities: Ann Arbor grads at CMU at different space Rufus, Bonnie Raitt to perform during Summer Fest 11 | NAACP backs marriage equality 32 | Bending it like Peckham 11 | Researcher apologizes for study of gay therapy 33 | Nuns raise funds and voices in Dexter

14 | Dharun Ravi sentenced to 30 days 34 | Happenings in Rutgers webcam spying case Featured: “A Conversation Between Monet and Sochi” in Kalamazoo 15 | White House objects as House omits LGBTs from domestic violence, defense bills Rear View 16 | Gay judge nominee defeated by non- 36 | Dear Jody votes, ‘Rule 69’

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Leadership Project Leading by example Watch our video online www.pridesource.com college, but mostly to get away from Tony Johnson lets life’s challenges be his guide his family. “I wanted to explore who I was,” he said, “but I went out of the BY DESIREE COOPER frying pan into the fire.” He wasn’t prepared for the About eight years ago, Curtis physical rigors of military basic Lipscomb attended an HIV/AIDS training. And the taste of independence program in Detroit. As the founder made it harder for him to live an of KICK — a nonprofit that serves inauthentic life. By the time he left the Detroit’s African American, LGBT service three years later, he was ready community — Lipscomb had attended to live independently as an openly many such gatherings before. But this gay man. But the pull of family was meeting in 2005 was different. too much. “Most African American gay In 1987, his grandfather got men — especially those with HIV ill, and it was assumed that Johnson — are isolated and live in fear,” said would be the one to take care of him. Lipscomb. “But I distinctly remember “Sometimes family members assume seeing Tony Johnson in that room. He that because you’re gay and you wasn’t like the others. He was very don’t have kids, that you are always confident and full of faith.” available to babysit, or give them The two became immediate money,” said Johnson, the oldest friends, joining forces in KICK’s grandchild. “They think you don’t mission to create a stigma-free, safe have a life.” space for LGBT African Americans Then, in 1993, Johnson faced who are HIV-positive. Johnson was his first major health crisis. “I found so taken by the mission, he started out that I was HIV-positive,” said catching the bus three days a week to Johnson, whose partner at the time manage KICK’s calls and to become stood by him. “I was devastated. I an intake specialist. thought people would be able to read Johnson, 47, is disabled and it on my face.” lives on a fixed income. In 1993, he Tony Johnson BTL photos: Andrew Potter As the person who was used discovered that he was HIV-positive, have a movement without people that LGBT people often experience in to giving to others, Johnson found but the virus has been undetectable He’s more interested in talking about willing to give their time and talent to the black community. it difficult to lean on others. But in his blood since 2004. “I’ve come service. the cause,” he said. “Tony doesn’t need “I knew I was different from the he found that he had many friends to terms with it, but I can’t believe “I decided that I can’t stay at his shoulders brushed off or his collar age of 9,” said Johnson. “I remember and supporters. His boss noticed his that there are still new cases being home and do nothing,” said Johnson. popped up. He comes from that spirit.” one of my grandmother’s friends medication in his cubicle at work. diagnosed,” he said. “If I can save one “I have to get out and help others.” “Her friend had died from HIV and person from getting it, it’s worth it.” He not only volunteers with she knew what was happening to me,” Lipscomb quickly discovered KICK, but he also serves at the Don’t bother talking to Johnson about his leadership he said. “She became my ally.” that he had not only gained a friend, United Sisters of Charity soup In 1999 at age 35, he suffered but a valuable ally in the fight against kitchen in Highland Park twice a in Detroit’s African American, LGBT community — it a stroke. His boss paid his insurance AIDS. week. He is also one of the founding co-pay for several months as he “When you are in crisis and members of a support group for HIV- would only embarrass him. He’s more interested in recovered. He was never able to go you call KICK, you get Tony — a positive veterans. back to work. Seven years later, he real, warm, caring person to help “I was despondent three years talking about service. had a second stroke that left him in a guide you,” said Lipscomb, whose ago when a social worker referred coma for two months. organization receives no public me to the support group,” said As he battled back to health, he funding. “He’s the frontline person Sidney Skipper, a veteran and retired talking in another room. I heard him tried to make sense of all of his life. for our organization, and the key to medical technician who is both HIV- say, ‘He’s going to be gay.’ The way “I believe that God left me here for a our development.” positive and bipolar. “I had given up What makes him tick? he said it, it was as if I was nasty or reason,” he said. Eight years later, Johnson is on everything. But Tony helped me The drive to serve others seems to dirty. My grandmother said, ‘That’s That reason, he believes, is to still riding the bus to work at KICK realize that when you help others, be natural for Johnson, but it’s derived my baby. If he is, he is.’ But I was hurt. make life better for others. That’s three days a week. What makes it you find your voice and realize you from a lifetime of struggle. People don’t realize the ramifications what drives Johnson to volunteer as remarkable is that Johnson has never have something to say. When you help The oldest of three children, of what they say to children.” dependably as if he were earning a been paid a dime. others, it lifts you up as well.” Johnson was raised on Detroit’s west As he grew up, Johnson pretended paycheck. That’s what pushes him to The difference between Tony and side by his mother and grandmother. to be straight to make life easier. In share little gifts with his fellow bus most people, Skipper added, is that he “I never had a coming out,” high school, he dated a girl from riders, or a joke with the people in the Leadership through isn’t in it for personal gratification. “If Johnson, who announced his sexual another part of town. soup line. humble service you’re volunteering to seek reward, orientation to his family at age 23. “Her father said, ‘My daughter “At the soup kitchen they say you’ll quit after awhile, and move on “They said that they already knew. isn’t having sex until she’s married,’” that I’m always so happy,” said Tony. Don’t bother talking to Johnson to something else,” said Skipper, 60. I wondered why I hadn’t gotten the said Johnson. “Well, that was fine “But you have to laugh to keep from about his leadership in Detroit’s “Tony doesn’t seek reward. He’s in it memo!” with me.” crying. If they had to walk one day African American, LGBT community for the long haul.” But that doesn’t mean that he In 1984, Johnson enlisted in in my shoes, I don’t think they could — it would only embarrass him. Lipscomb agreed. “You can’t didn’t suffer the same kind of backlash the Army in order to save money for handle it.”

6 BTL \ May 24, 2012 \ Between Ourselves www.PrideSource.com Between Ourselves Garnet Lewis

Sitting in the Democratic Party Headquarters in Lansing on the day before the filing deadline, the Director of the Joint Legislative Campaign Garnet Lewis is calm, cheerful and glowing with resolve. The 50-year-old Freeland-based lesbian is a beacon for the party, helping Democrats across the state find their place representing the people.

So what is your job with the Democratic Party? 1 Right now it’s all about the recruiting deadline for State Legislature tomorrow. For the short term we’re in massive recruitment mode. The long-term goal of the Joint Legislative Campaign is to build a Democratic team. We’ve been very reactive in the past as far as candidate recruitment. I started last June, and I’ve made From a (LGBT) community enough contacts so that we are set for the next cycle. Our goal is to have a candidate for every standpoint, people have seat. It looks like we may end up with three spots got to get out and vote. The empty for 2012, and those are in places that are less than 25 percent Democratic. Democrats may not be perfect, After the filing deadline, the focus will be on training and campaigning. We help candidates but they are looking out for us. put a plan in place. You do need to have money. Doors, dollars and volunteers. That’s what I like talking to for the Shiawassee seat, and she had to tell candidates. You need all three. a list of questions. It was great. She was so well-prepared. She wanted to know if it would How do you find candidates and what go bad and get personal. I told her ‘When they are some of the obstacles to doing that? go negative on you, it’s a good thing. It means A lot of districts and county parties 2 they’re worried about you. They only go negative have networks of volunteers in place, it’s just a if they think you might win.’ matter of finding out who would make a good For me the conservatives took out 30 second candidate and would be willing to run. It’s radio spots that just kept saying that I was ‘ho- hard especially in conservative areas. Running mo-sexual’ I don’t know how many times. It hurt for office is a lot of work, and you need to be every time I heard them say that word. They also ready for it. Often they need to consult with took out a full page ad in the Midland paper. their partner or spouse, because you don’t run I told my people ‘We may get comments a campaign yourself, your family is essentially at the door,’ and said that if they didn’t feel campaigning too. Sometimes there are good comfortable going out and facing the questions candidates but it’s just not the right time for them. and comments they didn’t need to. But once They also need to be emotionally ready to face we got out there, the doors we got to and the negativity and the lack of privacy that comes people had heard it, they found it offensive and from being a public figure. unprofessional. Before taking this position, you had run Are there any open LGBT candidates for against incumbent Republican James the State Legislature? Stamas for the 98th District. What made 3 No. Unfortunately there are not any you decide to run and did it turn ugly like some 4 ‘out’ candidates. However there are a lot of potential candidates fear? progressive Democratic candidates that are Really I’m an educator. I taught at Central strong allies. Michigan University College of Education. But From a (LGBT) community standpoint, after the ’04 election, that was when (John) Kerry people have got to get out and vote. The lost and the marriage amendment happened here, Democrats may not be perfect, but they are it hit home. I had been involved in politics online, looking out for us. We’ve got to vote for them and I knew that my community was trending and we need to stay on them to hold them from Independent to Democratic, so I thought accountable. If there was ever a time to get ‘I may not be able to make change, but I can do involved, this is the time. my part.’ I got involved with the County party and I caught the bug. Find out more about the Michigan Democrats at It did get bad. (pause) I had a gal I was www.michigandems.com www.PrideSource.com Michigan News / May 24, 2012 / BTL 7 Agema ascends to national BTL needs you Republican committee slot Volunteer during June Pride Month Anti-gay legislator known for attack on partner benefits Between The Lines is doing an exciting “2012 Voter Education Project,” which will kick-off on June 2-3 at BY TODD A. HEYWOOD for airport care and upkeep. the controversial pastor. Jones challenged Motor City Pride in Hart Plaza and continue throughout In defending his bill, Agema - a this claim, saying Agema “chickened out.” June and July at Pride events around the state. This Senior Reporter American Independent former airline pilot - said the shift in Agema’s ascension has progressives News Network funding would be a job creating move. raising eyebrows. project is a unique opportunity for pride-goers to receive But state health officials said the current “Agema’s contempt of immigrants, information about pro-LGBT candidates and send a LANSING – Michigan Republicans money funds 44 full time positions in Muslims, the LGBT community, and message to the Michigan Supreme Court that we stand ousted long-standing National the state. The legislation has since died working class people is evident in the for fairness for all. All that attendees need to do is sign Committeemen Saul Anuzis this past in committee and is unlikely to receive bills he introduced while serving in the a simple pledge to educate themselves on the candidates a hearing. Michigan House including his support of weekend, instead opting for a right-wing and issues important to the LGBT community and to vote state lawmaker who has made waves with The conservative lawmaker has also Gov. Snyder’s austerity measures,” says legislation dealing with everything from targeted Muslims. Colette Sequin Beighley, a West Michigan accordingly this November. eliminating funding of HIV programs in Agema has been pushing a piece of activist. “This new leadership position Signers of the pledge will help send a resounding Michigan to creating an Arizona anti- legislation called “American Laws for is an affirmation of his homophobic and message to the Michigan Supreme Court, and be signed immigration clone bill. American Courts.” He argues the bill xenophobic actions, gives license for even up to receive the BTL Voter Guide which the paper has State Rep. Dave Agema will restore the dominance of the U.S. more Draconian legislation, and further produced since 1996. The 2012 Voter Guide, published Constitution to Michigan courts, and supports the environment of hate that (R-Grandville) bested former Michigan this October, will assist Michiganders in answering the GOP Chair Anuzis in what Agema’s Tea prohibit foreign laws from being used. exists in our state.” Party supporters called a “landslide.” Similar legislation has been seen across Beighley is not alone. Laurel question: Who do I need to vote for if I want to see a pro- Former Michigan Secretary of State Terri the country and is purported to stop the Sprague, a regional coordinator for the LGBT majority in office? Lynn Land ousted Holly Hughes, one of implementation of Sharia law - a strict Global Network of People with AIDS BTL is fully dedicated to bringing the Voter Guide Michigan’s other two national committee Islamic code of laws. There is no evidence North America, says Agema’s election to as many of the tens of thousands of attendees of members. U.S. courts are relying on Sharia law. raises concerns for the HIV community Michigan’s Pride festivals as possible. Agema has rattled the state over But BTL needs help. To reach and circulate this and over again with legislative battles to eliminate same-sex partner benefits for “Agema’s contempt of immigrants, Muslims, the LGBT pledge successfully, BTL needs a lot of volunteers who all public employees. The partner benefits are willing to reach out to pride-goers and ask them to battle pitted him against Gov. Rick Snyder community, and working class people is evident in the sign a petition that reads: when the Snyder administration rejected bills he introduced while serving in the Michigan House a budget rider last year which would “PLEDGE: TO THE MICHIGAN SUPREME have eliminated benefits for university including his support of Gov. Snyder’s austerity measures.” s employees. The Snyder administration COURT: We stand for fairness for all Michiganders: said the proposal was unconstitutional no one should be discriminated against just because they and interfered with the autonomy of the universities as assured under the state - Colette Beighley, West Michigan activist. are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT). No one constitution. should have to change who they are to be treated fairly: In a May 8, 2011 Facebook post, don’t change yourself, change the law! We commit to Agema wrote about the controversy of offering partner benefits to university In addition to his legislative moves, as well. educate ourselves on the candidates and issues important employees. Agema has also written about Muslims “The selection of Representative to the LGBT community, and to vote accordingly this “Fear the government that fears your in a denigrating fashion on his Facebook Agema to represent Michigan surprises guns. Fear the colleges that break the law page. For example on Feb. 23 he wrote, “I and worries me. Why would Michigan November.” to force their own faculty and students find it amazing that Afghanis want trials Republicans decide that one of our BTL will be collecting signatures for this petition at to accept same sex/unmarried benefits . (death of course) for their qurans being representatives should be someone who the following Pride celebrations: Remember Universities are training the (in their opinion) mistreated. Christians attempted to defund HIV prevention and Motor City Pride (Detroit’s Hart Plaza, June 2-3) are killed, honor killings are OK, any care programs within the state?” said next generation for what garbage they put Kalamazoo Pride (June 9) out as acceptable into the kids brains. We Muslims that convert to Christianity are Sprague. “This seems to be a complete can lose our country in one generation.” killed, our troops beheaded (the Quran’s turnaround for the Republicans given that West Michigan Pride (Grand Rapids, June 16) Earlier that week, he claimed on form of death for an infidel) and I’m one shining moment for the Republican Michigan Pride March, Rally & Festival Facebook to have to have received supposed to be sympathetic. Sorry-I’m Party, and an enduring legacy for President (Lansing, June 16) “threats” from gay activists over his not! A full investigation demanded by the George W. Bush, was the creation of the Ferndale Pride (June 17) support of eliminating partner benefits. president is once again showing weakness. PEPFAR program which has saved Saginaw/Midland Pride (June 23) How about a thanks for all our troops millions of lives around the world and Legislation proposed by Agema Hotter Than July (Detroit’s Palmer Park, July 24-29) would have eliminated the state’s Healthy dying to free them from such radicals.” prevented thousands of HIV infections Michigan Fund Initiative, which serves as On Sept. 7, 2011, he was scheduled among newborns.” Volunteers will be asked to help for a 2 to 3 hour shift. the sole basis for Michigan’s contribution to appear on the Capitol steps with Pastor Emily Dievendorf, policy director Each volunteer will receive a T-Shirt, snacks, water and our to receive federal HIV dollars. The fund Terry Jones - the Quran burning pastor at Equality Michigan, also expressed sincere thanks for helping make a difference in Michigan. pays approximately 77 percent of the from Florida - but cancelled on Sept. 6 concern.”Rep. Agema’s election to the If you are at all interested in getting involved in the state’s federal match, without which claiming he had a schedule conflict. The role of GOP National Committeeman 2012 Voter Education Project, e-mail benjaminjenkins@ the federal money would not be made announcement of the cancellation and is another sad example of Republican pridesource.com or call 734-293-7200 ext. 23. available. Under Agema’s proposal the the conflict came only after media began funding would have been shifted to a fund inquiring about Agema’s appearance with See Agema, page 8 8 BTL \ May 24, 2012 \ Michigan News www.PrideSource.com ® Agema Continued from p. 7 Eleven young leaders emerge leaders’ insistence on appointing extreme party members to positions that exist to represent the interests of the majority of the party. Rep. Agema has been responsible for one anti- BY CRYSTAL A. PROXMIRE gay bill after another. In an age of majority support for gay marriage in Michigan, Rep. Agema represents the interests of DETROIT – Eleven young people of the few. Despite his minority ideology, he does not hesitate color are the first wave of graduates of the to push forward with a relentless commitment to weakening new KICK LEAD program, which stands for families that hurts all Michiganders,” said Dievendorf. “Most Learn, Educate, Advocate and Drive. They of the Republican constituency is more reasonable and fair were recognized in a graduation ceremony minded than Rep. Agema and the supporters he had in his on Saturday. corner at the convention today. Rep. McMillin is celebrating Brandon Gleaton, Ronald Morris, Rep. Agema’s win for a reason - when the public does not LaShonda Windham, Kiana Miller, Victor demand that their will be reflected in leadership the outliers Harrell, Marlin Colyer, Hank Martin, Alfredo Smith, Bre’ Campbell, John Trimble and Rhiannon Chester met every Saturday “Agema represents morning for six weeks to get an in-depth lesson in leadership from some of the area’s the interests of top LGBT advocates. Educators for the LEAD project the few. Despite his included Johnny Jenkins, Jr., program minority ideology, he director of Affirmations, Emily Dievendorf, policy director of Equality Michigan, Dr. does not hesitate Louis Graham, fellow at the University of Michigan, Tiffany Buchanan, president of to push forward KICK and Philasean Benjamin, program with a relentless coordinator of KICK. “The students walked into the program commitment to as strangers and came out comrades,” said KICK Executive Director Curtis Lipscomb. weakening families “They spent time together after each class in dialogue on how to work further together.” that hurts all Michigander...Most of Marlin Colyer was among the the Republican constituency is more graduates. The 29-year-old Chicago native moved to Detroit last year in hopes of going reasonable and fair minded than Rep. to school for psychology and developing Bre’ Campbell has been connecting with the KICK communityand recently joined the KICK Board of a career in poetry and other writing. “The Directors and serves as the Trans Ambassador for the group. BTL photo courtesy of KICK. Agema and the supporters he had in LEAD program overall was a magnificent experience. Stand out lessons would his corner at the convention today.” KICK LEAD program has given her the All I can say is that everyone should include community building and conflict opportunity to learn even more and connect watch out because we are Leaders who are management. These lessons stood out most with other young leaders. “The thing that Educated, and are going to Advocate for to me because it helped me to understand - Emily Dievendorf, policy director at Equality Michigan, stands out to me was the relationship our community because we have a powerful some of the things that I should expect when building that happened between myself Drive.” joining the ranks of activism.” and the other participants. We are not just There will be another six weeks course Colyer points to his mother and to another group, we are family,” Campbell of LEAD in the fall, where another 11 are given reign over the direction of a party and possibly the Lipscomb as leaders to look up to. “My said. “My fellow LEAD members are young people will be trained. Graduates actions of a state. I hope that the Republican Party learns mom has always encouraged me to be the leaders also. To be dedicated and come to are eligible to become members of KICK’s from this gross misstep.” best that I can be in all of my endeavors. I class every week was a hard task, but we newly-developed Young Adult Board of State party leadership said the move was about “fresh have no idea where I would be without her were there every week ready to learn. I can’t Advisors, and their voice will be integral to faces,” as Michigan GOP chair Bobby Schostak told the love. Curtis Lipscomb is someone that I wait to see the growth in our group both the direction of that board. Detroit Free Press. look up to majorly. He is such a mover and individually and collectively.” The graduates are expected to continue Bill Ballenger, editor of Inside Michigan Politics shaker in our community, and defines the newsletter, said the election of Agema was a Tea Party-event LaShonda Windham said she enrolled their work in the LGBT community and that shows the movement is “strong and getting stronger.” beyond. “The students will be active at But Ballenger, who is a former Republican lawmaker, said LaShonda Windham said she enrolled in the KICK LEAD program Motor City Pride and Hotter than July for the the election of Agema is not necessarily a bad thing for the ‘Don’t Change Yourself, Change the Law’ GOP. because she wants to become part of the LGBT African campaign and other youth empowerment “The ‘criticism’ that Agema has always gotten for his activities,” Lipscomb said. “I hope the Unity stands come from those who don’t wish his party well,” American movement. “I want to make the community more Michigan Coalition Partners – Affirmations, says Ballenger. “Democrats, the MSM (mainstream media) visible.” Equality Michigan, Ruth Ellis Center, (including MLive), and lot of socially moderate independents Michigan Roundtable for Diversity and and ticket-splitters delight in lambasting the Agemas of the Inclusion and the ACLU of Michigan – will take full advantage of the energy the world, but that doesn’t mean the Republicans are doomed. very meaning of leadership.” in the KICK LEAD program because she students have as their internships begin They’ve got a lot of other things going for them.” In the time that Bre’ Campbell has been wants to become part of the LGBT African this summer.” connecting with the KICK community, she American movement. “I want to make the Enrollment for the fall course for has blossomed into a natural leader. She Todd Heywood is a senior reporter for American Independent community more visible,” she said. “I was students age 18-30 begins on Monday, recently joined the KICK Board of Directors News Network where this piece originally appeared. Visit http:// able to spend six weeks with the new leaders September 10. and serves as the Trans Ambassador for of the movement and I am most grateful americanindependent.com the group. She is also an HIV Prevention For more information check out www.e-kick. to KICK for giving me this opportunity. specialist at The Horizons Project. The org or call 313-285-9733. www.PrideSource.com News / May 24, 2012 / BTL 9 Arsonist torches lesbian couple’s Novi home NOVI – Tawana Williams and Stacy and all the wedding gifts were inside the house, Baker’s mobile home was burned to the ground and are now a total loss. and vandalized May 12. Police and fire officials The couple’s friend, Lisa Harvin, told the told Fox 2 News that arson is believed to be the Oakland Press that Williams and Baker lived fire’s cause due to evidence of an accelerate. quietly and peacefully in the neighborhood. Police are also considering it a potential hate “They’re really nice people,” she told the crime because of anti-LGBT slurs found painted paper. “It’s nobody’s business what they do.” on the refrigerator and on the bedroom walls. The couple reportedly have a 10 year old The couple was not in town at the time of daughter and are currently staying in a local the fire, but were in Las Vegas celebrating their motel. honeymoon. Baker said that her wedding gown Disinvited gay speaker addresses prep grads at CMU at different space

MOUNT PLEASANT (AP) – An alumnus withdrawn. of a Michigan Catholic high school who wasn’t Sheahan-Stahl is a 1998 graduate of the allowed to speak at its graduation ceremony Mount Pleasant prep school and now lives in because he’s gay has delivered his planned talk New York City. His youngest brother is in this to the graduates at a different location. year’s graduating class. Dominic Sheahan-Stahl gave the address Mlive.com said Sheahan-Stahl wore a white Sunday at Central Michigan University’s T-shirt bearing the words “Live Through Love.” Warriner Hall in Mount Pleasant. Sacred Heart graduates occupied the first The 32-year-old actor had been invited to three rows of the auditorium, wearing their red speak at Sacred Heart Academy’s graduation and white graduation gowns. ceremony Sunday, but the invitation was Obama stance adds fuel in marriage battlegrounds BY CLARKE CANFIELD – Minnesota is asking whether a ban on gay is a major issue that isn’t going away and we need reaffirming opposition to gay marriage, even marriage should be part of the state constitution. to have more people involved in it,” Emrich said. though there’s a ban already enshrined in state PORTLAND, Maine (AP) – President – Maryland and Washington are expected to It’s not just Maine where Obama’s words law and the state constitution. . Barack Obama’s support for gay marriage has have ballot measures seeking to overturn same- have energized gay marriage supporters. In Colorado, the Republican House speaker emboldened activists and politicians on both sex marriage laws that were recently passed by In Illinois, Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn said accused Democratic Gov. John Hickenlooper sides of the issue, setting off a flurry of political the legislatures. he “stands with the president” while announcing of “reading straight from President Obama’s activity in a number of states and serving as a In Maine, the announcement has invigorated his stepped-up support for gay marriage, vowing campaign playbook” in calling for a special rallying point in others where gay marriage votes activists who favor and oppose November’s to work with state legislators to legalize same-sex legislative session to vote on civil unions a are being held this fall. statewide referendum seeking to legalize same- marriage there without waiting for the courts to day after Republicans had killed a bill. The With the nation divided on gay marriage, sex marriage. The Maine Legislature passed a act. Illinois currently allows civil unions, which resurrected legislation was again killed during a Obama’s declaration this month – a day after gay marriage bill in 2009, but it was overturned afford couples many of the rights of marriage. special session this week. North Carolina voters approved an amendment by 53 percent of the voters in a referendum that In Rhode Island, which allows civil unions In Minnesota, Minnesotans for Marriage to the state constitution affirming that marriage fall. but not gay marriage, Gov. Lincoln Chafee spokesman said Obama’s announcement may only be a union of a man and a woman – David Farmer, spokesman for Mainers signed an order proclaiming the state will “demonstrates why marriage needs to be has added a wrinkle in the political debate on a United for Marriage, said Obama’s description recognize same-sex marriages performed protected and put in the state Constitution where touchy subject. of his personal evolution on gay marriage elsewhere; Chafee, an independent, said politicians can’t get at it.” Obama’s stand has put wind in the sails of illuminates the conversations that supporters are Obama’s announcement is positive momentum. In New Hampshire, the sponsor of a failed gay marriage supporters, while providing political having in door-to-door and phone discussions Maryland’s highest court ruled Friday that same- bill to repeal gay marriage sent out an email fuel to opponents, said Kamy Akhavan, president with residents – talking about their “personal sex couples can divorce in the state even though calling Obama “arrogant and out of touch” with of ProCon.org, a nonpartisan California-based journeys” and people they know who are gay. Maryland does not yet permit gay couples to wed. his announcement. nonprofit that researches pros and cons on “A lot of people who agree with the Former Nebraska Gov. and Sen. Bob Frank Schubert, political director for the controversial issues. president got a burst of energy, that feeling of Kerrey, a Democrat who is again running for the National Organization for Marriage, which “It has altered the national discussion to momentum, about the first sitting president of the Senate, voiced his support for gay marriage this opposes gay marriage, said Obama’s opinion will some degree,” he said. United States endorsing a cause that they support week. And in Minnesota, gay marriage supporters continue to have ramifications as November’s Same-sex marriage is now legal in six states and are working very hard on,” Farmer said. say Obama’s position is galvanizing opponents elections close in, particularly for Democrats and the District of Columbia. Thirty-one states Obama’s words also made referendum of a proposed constitutional amendment to ban who don’t share his view. have passed amendments aimed at banning it. opponents realize they have their work cut out it and should help fundraising efforts. “I think he’s scrambled the omelet quite a The issue is expected to come up in at least four for them, said Bob Emrich, chairman of Protect Obama’s announcement has also drawn bit here and made it complicated for Democrats, ballot measures this fall: Marriage Maine and pastor of Emmanuel Bible response from gay marriage opponents. in swing states in particular, because it puts them – Maine’s ballot question asks whether gay Baptist Church. In Oklahoma, the state Senate recently in position of having to, sometimes publicly, marriage should be legalized. “It’s deepened people’s awareness that this voted overwhelmingly in favor of a resolution distance themselves from the president,” he said. 10 BTL \ May 24, 2012 \ Opinion www.PrideSource.com Point of View Vol. 2021 • Issue 765 May 24, 2012 Evolution: It’s been a long time coming

PUBLISHERS BY MICHELLE E. BROWN released an open letter embracing President And there will be a price to pay. Susan Horowitz & Jan Stevenson Obama’s position on equality for the LGBT In 1901 President Theodore Roosevelt community. Even rap-mogul Jay-Z and actor invited Booker T. Washington to dinner at the EDITORIAL hile on the road in 1963 Will Smith came out in support of gay marriage. White House bending the rules of segregation. Editor in Chief Sam Cooke In a scathing open letter (available on The repercussions from this dinner were the attack Susan Horowitz W penned the original draft of his classic song “ A youtube.com), Rev. Dr. Otis Moss II of Trinity on African American’s in the south. [email protected] Change Is Gonna Come” while sitting in the back United Church of Christ in Chicago, IL called out Following the passage of the Civil Rights ministers saying, “gay people have never been the Act and Voting Rights Act there were lynchings Entertainment Editor of his tour bus. Chris Azzopardi The song became the soundtrack of the Civil enemy and when we use rhetoric to suggest they and bombings across the south. [email protected] Rights movement for the sixties and inspired are the source of all our problems we lie on God.” And on Tuesday May 15th LGBTQ offices many since. With those words, “I think same-sex couples in Washington DC including those of the Human Associate Editor Benjamin Jenkins It didn’t just come to him, the words came should be able to get married,” President Obama Rights Campaign, The Task Force and National [email protected] through him. The song captured the pain and opened the floodgates and the walls began to Black Justice Coalition were evacuated following hope of the Civil Rights movement to the African tumble down. a very credible, potential bomb threat reported Arts & Theater Editor American community. And then the granddaddy of them all, against a DC LGBT organization. Donald V. Calamia, The words expressed the hopes and dreams [email protected] of equality carried across time by the cries for freedom of oppressed people universally. With those words, “I think same-sex couples should be able to get CREATIVE Equality may not have been born by the married,” President Obama opened the floodgates and the walls began Art Director river in a little tent, but just like the river it’s been David Ano, [email protected] running ever since. to tumble down. Again and again, during our social evolution, Webmaster & MIS Director Kevin Bryant, [email protected] these cries for freedom and equality have found a voice. Much like the little boy who cried “The The NAACP, National Association for the Some might call it a tipping point, others Contributing Writers Emperor has no clothes,” someone states the Advancement of Colored People, released a synchronicity, today it’s evolution, the reality is Charles Alexander, Michelle E. Brown, Abby Dees, Jack Fertig, Todd Heywood, Howard Israel, Lisa obvious and, with that single act or deed, the resolution supporting marriage equality as a we have reached a critical point in an evolving Keen, Richard Labonte, Michael H. Margolin, Jenn dominos of inequality start to fall. continuation of its historic commitment to equal situation that leads to a new and irreversible McKee, Jason Michael, Kate Opalewski, Anthony Such was the case when President Obama protection under the law. In a statement Chairman development. Paull, Andrea Poteet, Crystal Proxmire, John of the NAACP Board of Directors, Roslyn M This is a pivotal moment in our struggle for Quinn, Eric W. Rader, Bridgette M. Redman, Leslie completed his evolution on same-sex marriage, Robinson, Romeo San Vincente, Gwendolyn Ann announcing in an interview with ABC’s Robin Brock said, “The mission of the NAACP has equality, a time to celebrate, to be energized, to Smith, Jody Valley, D’Anne Witkowski, Dan Woog Roberts that he believed “same-sex couples always been to ensure the political, social and push for the finish line, not to bemoan the past. Cartoonists should be able to get married.” economic equality of all people. We have and will To borrow again from Sam Cooke, “There Paul Berg, Dave Brousseau, Joan Hilty Even though many within the LGBT oppose efforts to codify discrimination into law.” have been times that we thought we couldn’t last Contributing Photographers community had grown impatient with the slow Before you get too happy remember for long/but now I think we’re able to carry on. Andrew Potter pace of Obama’s “evolution,” we knew it was this, nothing has changed. Although public It’s been a long time coming, but I know a change going to happen but what we didn’t know was opinion shows the tide turning with more people is gonna come.” ADVERTISING & SALES what would happen in the aftermath. supporting LGBTQ equality and marriage, over Michelle E. Brown is a Public Speaker, Activist and Obama’s declaration was not a “surprise,” 30 states have amendments/legislation banning Director of Sales Author follow her activities at www.mychangeiam. Jan Stevenson, [email protected] but for many still struggling with internalized same-sex marriage. Obama’s “evolution” does not homophobia, confused by rhetoric blurring the rescind DOMA – The Defense of Marriage Act. com, www.facebook.com/mychangeiam, www. Sales Representatives Too little, too late – hardly!! It’s been a long twitter.com/mychangeiam Ed Bohach, [email protected] distinction between religious rites and civil rights Ann Cox, [email protected] it was shocking. time coming and our change is going to come. For those leaning even further to the extreme National Advertising Representative Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 right, it was a declaration of war. Despite wishing gay pride participants a Business Office “Great Pride Weekend with the inscription ‘All Diane Smith, [email protected] Citizens Deserve Equal Rights, Regardless of their Nancy Blankenship Sexuality,’” while Governor of Massachusetts, Circulation & Distribution presumptive Republican nominee Mitt Romney Diane Smith reaffirmed his position “that marriage ought to be defined between one man and one woman.” Pride Source Media Group 11920 Farmington Road Ministers decried Obama’s position with Livonia, Michigan 48150 calls from African American clergy urging Phone 734.293.7200 • Fax 734.293.7201 Black voters to turn against President Obama in www.pridesource.com November Our rate cards are available online But then the other shoe dropped and it was All material appearing in Between The Lines is protected by federal a good shoe for equality. copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without African American leaders including the the permission of the publishers. Between The Lines is supported Rev. Al Sharpton, President of National Action by many fine advertisers, but we cannot accept responsibility for claims made by our advertisers, nor can we accept responsibility Network, Julian Bond, chairman emeritus of for materials provided by advertisers or their agents. NAACP, Melanie Campbell, president and CEO of the National Coalition for Black Civic Copyright 2012 Pride Source Media Group, LLC Engagement, and Rev. Dr. Joseph Lowery, Civil Rights icon and president emeritus of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, www.PrideSource.com National News / / May 24, 2012 / BTL 11 NAACP backs marriage equality Creep of the Week BY LISA KEEN Rea Carey, executive director of the law or to remove the Constitutional Charles L. Worley the National Gay and Lesbian Task rights of LGBT citizens. We support Force, called the NAACP board vote marriage equality consistent with equal Saying that the NAACP has BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI “always stood against laws that demean, “a truly historic moment,” adding that protection under the law provided under NGLTF “couldn’t be more thrilled.” the Fourteenth Amendment of the dehumanize, and discriminate against t should be a surprise to no sentient being that by coming out in favor Carey said her group is not United States Constitution. Further, we people,” NAACP Board Chairman of marriage equality; President Obama opened the floodgates for the surprised by the vote. NAACP National strongly affirm the religious freedoms Roslyn Brock formally announced anti-gay crazies. Mind you, this is not his fault, nor is it really a bad Monday the board’s vote in favor of a President Ben Jealous had delivered a of all people as protected by the First I thing. I mean, it’s not like these people haven’t keynote address to NGLTF’s national Amendment.” resolution supporting marriage equality. always been out there hating gays. But when the conference, reminding attendees that In releasing the statement, NAACP Joining Brock at a press tide starts turning toward equality and justice, famed civil rights activist Bayard board Chair Roslyn Brock said that conference at the group’s headquarters those against such a turn are going to fight that Rustin, who was gay, helped planned the NAACP’s mission “has always in Baltimore, NAACP President Ben tide every inch of the way. the historic 1963 civil rights march on been to ensure the political, social Jealous noted that this is the first time This is, perhaps, especially true in North Washington. and economic equality of all people.” the organization has taken a position on Carolina since they just passed their whole “gays In his keynote, Jealous told the And she promised the NAACP would same-sex marriage generally, and not in marrying is horrible” amendment. audience at NGLTF’s annual Creating “oppose efforts to codify discrimination the context of opposing a specific law, Enter Charles L. Worley, pastor at Providence Change conference, held last in January into law.” such as Proposition 8. Road Baptist Church in Maiden, North Carolina. in Baltimore, of a close friend he had The New York Times reported LGBT groups were understandably I would say that Obama’s marriage equality since the age of four. The friend has that its sources indicated only two Charles L. Worley excited to hear the news because the announcement inspired Worley’s May 13 sermon, been like a brother to him. Jealous board members failed to support the announcement can be considered a but “inspired” is just not the right word to use for shared how he and his friend - the only resolution. The board includes 69 major advancement in the general such a hate-filled rant. other black child his age in his Carmel, people. population’s support for marriage “Our president getting up and saying that it was alright for two California, neighborhood - stuck The organization’s press release equality. Anti-gay activists have tried women to marry or two men to marry. I tell you right now I was together when being discriminated about the board’s vote explained that hard for years to drive a wedge between disappointed bad,” Worley says, “but I’ll tell you right there, as sorry as against because they were black. And its support for marriage equality was the black and gay movements for civil you can get the Bible’s against it, God’s against it, I’m against it, and if Jealous also stood together with his “deeply rooted” in the constitutional rights, and many polls have shown you’ve got any sense, you’re against it.” African-Americans generally have friend when his friend was being bullied guarantee of equal protection of the shown less support for allowing gay because he was gay. law. At Monday’s press conference, couples to marry. The NAACP announcement comes Jealous said the NAACP would “firmly “We could not be more pleased just 10 days after President Obama oppose all efforts to restrict marriage “I figured a way to get rid of all with the NAACP’s history-making vote made headlines by affirming that he equality,” including attempts to amend today,” said Human Rights Campaign believes same-sex couples should be budgetary bills in Congress with the lesbians and queers.” President Joe Solmonese. “It’s time allowed to marry - a statement he has language intended to exclude gay the shameful myth that the African- been reluctant to make since running couples. American community is somehow out for the White House. Asked whether he was concerned - Worley from his Mother’s Day sermon of lockstep with the rest of the country The board of the 103-year-old there might be a backlash against the civil rights group passed a resolution NAACP by black churches, Jealous on marriage equality is retired, once Got that? The Bible, God, and Worley all agree. Which means you stating: “The NAACP Constitution gave an emphatic response. He said and for all.” must agree, otherwise you’re an idiot. The problem is, of course, that the affirmatively states our objective to some clergy might feel differently than HRC recently released copies Bible doesn’t say anything about marriage equality, and I have a hunch ensure the ‘political, educational, the board, but that the NAACP does of internal memos it discovered from Worley doesn’t have a direct line to God. Because if he did, God would social and economic equality’ of all this work “because of our faith, not court documents, illustrating that the change His number and unfriend Worley on Facebook. Why? Because people. Therefore, the NAACP has despite it.” anti-gay National Organization for of what he says next. opposed and will continue to oppose “This will not,” he said, “be Marriage was deliberately trying to “I figured a way to get rid of all the lesbians and queers,” Worley any national, state, local policy or used as a wedge issue in our own organize African American opposition says in his sermon, delivered on Mother’s Day for Christ’s sake. “But legislative initiative that seeks to community.” to same-sex marriage. it couldn’t get past the congress. Build a great, big, large fence — 150 codify discrimination or hatred into or 100 mile long — put all the lesbians in there, fly over and drop some food. Do the same thing for the queers and the homosexuals and have that fence electrified so they can’t get out. Feed ‘em, and you know what, in Researcher apologizes for study of gay therapy a few years, they’ll die out. Do you know why? They can’t reproduce.” NEW YORK (AP) – A prominent American Psychiatric Association. One of change were valid,” he wrote in a Oh, wow. This plan is such a great combination of various human retired psychiatrist is apologizing to the reason for the attention was that Spitzer letter to the editor of the Archives of rights abuses. It’s hard to know where to even begin, although I suspect gay community for a decade-old study had played a leading role 30 years before Sexual Behavior. Spitzer, who lives in that someone’s been brushing up on his WWII history and cruising the that concluded some gay people can go in removing homosexuality from the list Princeton, New Jersey, sent a copy to Minuteman website. straight through what’s called reparative of mental disorders in the association’s The Associated Press after a reporter First of all, where would these big fenced areas be built? And would therapy. diagnostic manual. interviewed him about his change of there be two separate areas, one for lesbians and another for queers and Dr. Robert L. Spitzer, formerly of Spitzer’s study was attacked by heart. homosexuals? I’m assuming yes since you want to stop reproduction. Also, Columbia University, now says he no critics who questioned the reliability “I believe I owe the gay community what is the difference between queers and homosexuals for the sake of longer believes his work showed that. of the accounts from the people he an apology for my study making this argument? You indicate that the areas would be in the neighborhood For the study, Spitzer had interviewed. At the time, Spitzer unproven claims of the efficacy of of 100-150 miles long, but how wide (it seems like a really critical detail. interviewed 200 people who’d claimed acknowledged that he had no proof their reparative therapy,” Spitzer wrote. “I Six feet like a jail cell or a grave maybe)? When you say, “drop some some degree of change. The “fatal flaw” stories were accurate, but said several also apologize to any gay person who food” do you mean, like, once, or on a continual basis? And, really, why is that there is no way to judge the aspects of their accounts suggested wasted time and energy undergoing bother with food at all if your intention is to “get rid” of them? Heck, why credibility of their accounts, Spitzer says their statements could not be dismissed some form of reparative therapy because bother with this plan at all if you want them all dead? There are quicker in a letter he submitted last month to a out of hand. they believed that I had proven that ways to kill people. But maybe in your mind your plan allows the whole journal that published his work in 2003. Now he says his reasoning was reparative therapy works with some thing to be put in God’s hands thus making it all very Christian nice-nice. The work made headlines when wrong, and that “there was no way `highly motivated’ individuals.” A bigger question is that once this plan is completed, what do you he presented it at a 2001 meeting of the to determine if the subject’s accounts propose be done with all of the straight people who keep giving birth to gay people? 12 BTL \ May 24, 2012 \ Opinion www.PrideSource.com

“When I raise these issues, some complain that I’m pushing for ‘new S/he Said rights’ or ‘special rights’ for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. Governor Granholm embraces President Obama’s Political atmosphere But there is nothing new or special about evolution on gay marriage, yet during her tenure she the right to life and security of person, COMPILED BY HOWARD ISRAEL felt marriage was “between a man and a woman.” the right to freedom from discrimination. These and other rights are universal... Your take? Does this make her a “flip-flopper?” enshrined in international law but Navi Pillay denied to many of our fellow human beings simply because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. States must repeal discriminatory laws and ban discriminatory practices: punish violence and hatred... not love.” -Navi Pillay, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, in a statement titled “On anti-homophobia day, UN calls for repeal of discriminatory laws,” marking International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia, http://www.un.org/news/, May 17. Observed on 17 May, International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia has become asks people around the world to pause and remember the victims of homophobic violence and discrimination, and support equality for LGBT people.

“The mission of the NAACP has always been to ensure the political, social and economic equality of all people. We have and will oppose efforts to codify discrimination into law. Civil marriage is a civil right and a matter of civil law.” -Roslyn M. Brock, Chairman of the Robert Reich Board of Directors of the NAACP, in a statement in support of “Our crisis has nothing to do with private morality. It’s a crisis Roslyn M. Brock Will Smith slaps a male reporter for kissing him. marriage equality as a continuation of public morality - of abuses of public trust that undermine of its historic commitment to Many reporters are calling it homophobia. What the integrity of our economy and democracy and have led equal protection under the law, www.naacp.org, May 19. do you think? millions of Americans to conclude the game is rigged. What’s truly immoral is not what adults choose to do with other “Remember, Republicans consenting adults. It’s what those with great power have characterized the war on women chosen to do to the rest of us. It is immoral that top executives as a Democratic strategy to divert are richly rewarded no matter how badly they screw up while attention from the ‘real issue’ of the most Americans are screwed no matter how hard they work. economy. We’ll see if the GOP will Regressive Republicans have no problem intruding on the most be as dismissive with gay rights. Or personal and most intimate decisions any of us makes while will the fact that in 2004, George W. railing against government intrusions on big business. They Bush successfully used discrimination don’t hesitate to hurl the epithets ‘shameful,’ ‘disgraceful,’ and against the GLBT community to ‘contemptible’ at private moral decisions they disagree with, LZ Granderson motivate his base be too juicy a while staying stone silent in the face of the most contemptible strategy for Romney and the gang to violations of public trust at the highest reaches of the economy. pass up? Keep in mind that a poll taken in late March showed We must protect and advance private rights of individuals over gay rights was tied for dead last in what voters felt was the most intimate bedroom decisions. We must also stop the abuses of important issue, so if the GOP does try to use Obama’s remarks economic power and privilege that are characterizing so many as weapons against him, there is a good chance the rhetoric will decisions in the nation’s boardrooms and executive suites.” fall on deaf ears. If Romney can’t get any more traction from his -Robert Reich, political economist, professor, author, calling card, nor a boost from his vice presidential selection, Secretary of Labor under President Bill Clinton, in his there is the possibility the economy will take a backseat to gay Comments may be edited for grammar and length. blog posting titled “Of Bedrooms and Boardrooms,” about rights in his campaign.” Join the conversation ... the Republican focus on America’s bedrooms, rather than America’s boardrooms, http://robertreich.org/, May 10. -LZ Granderson, CNN Contributor, in his column Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” titled “Will Romney use gay marriage issue against Obama?,” http://www.cnn.com/opinion, May 10. www.PrideSource.com Opinion / May 24, 2012 / BTL 13 Parting Glances Pages past Viewpoint: Lets make tense #11 BY CHARLES ALEXANDER that change, okay? was fortunate as a gay teenager. When I turned 18 my parents never asked I me who I was dating, or if I had a BY LESLIE THOMPSON help people come out and stay out. They who do not support the organization with girlfriend. I was on my own. Of age to make my own decisions. help them deal with inner turmoil, they a financial gift. But don’tyou sit back and And mistakes. his is not the first time that there help them keep their jobs and they help our bitch about this either. JOIN A BOARD. My only concession to being a dutiful son as far as has been a suggestion or discussion young people have a roof over their head. Make a difference. Learn how to be a pretending to be straight was to invite four of my newfound Taround the merger of Affirmations And for the Love of God...stop better board member if you are already on gay and lesbian friends - each of whom could pass - to meet my and Triangle Foundation/Equality blaming the executive directors. Equality a board. There are many opportunities to mother and father (and our cocker spaniel Taffy). Michigan. A lengthy debate and even a Michigan has had four executive directors learn how to be a great board member – My parents seemed content that I was associating with grant funded a deep look into the pros in four years? Maybe the common both in and out of the LGBT community. the right company. My friends were articulate, fun, straight and cons of such a merger which took denominator is not the paid staff. Being a And stop treating the executive acting, complimentary of my mom’s cooking. Taffy, as the place before I was in a leadership position board member is a very hard job. I know, directors like they are chattel that can be focus of much of our adoring at Affirmations. We also looked at the I have been on several boards in my life replaced with the snap of your fingers. attention that evening, was possibility more than once, during my 11 and it takes a lot of commitment...of your There are brilliant leaders in our community quite content. The “nelly” of the year tenure at Affirmations. time, talent and treasure. Legally, a board right now but when the going gets tough If I planned to stay out two was in danger So, here we are again – as a member has three responsibilities. I will the so-called tough board members fire the late I would say I was staying community – suggesting that the two share two of them in this comment: (1) is executive director or put more pressure on at uneventful Gary’s place. of losing his history organizations combine their talents, their to set policy and (2) is to make sure the them to do more with less. Give them the My parents knew his parents databases and their resources, and come resources are available to see these policies tools they need to serve our community. would keep an eye on us professorship together to make a difference in our state. are enacted. This includes the budget for Asking them to do more with less is not both. The evening I was to go And to that I say...are you going programs and staff. The executive director going to make any LGBT person safer or to Ann Arbor as Jack Jacob’s for being seen to help if they do? As in the past, happier. It’s not going to change guest at a gay party I said I’d frequenting a I think it is a brilliant idea. I the hearts of people who are on the be doing an overnighter. believe the pros far outweigh the There are brilliant leaders in our fence regarding our issues and if Promptly at six-thirty “questionable bar”. cons. But it won’t make a lick given the right information would Jack rolled down the window of difference if the community community right now but when the become our ally. All it’s going to of his borrowed car and doesn’t step forward and put going gets tough the so-called tough do is drive your executive director greeted me. “Punctuality is the courtesy of kings. Or, queens. In their money where their opinions to exhaustion. our case.” Ignoring his observation about royalty behavior, real are. It’s easy to sit back and board members fire the executive I am saddened by the loss and/or fancied, I eagerly hopped in. We were off. say Affirmations should provide of Denise Brogan-Kator as the I had never been to Ann Arbor before (though a few years spirituality programs or Equality director or put more pressure on them executive director at Equality later I would visit a cousin there who was teaching music with Michigan should have more to do more with less. Michigan. Just like I was saddened her as-yet-undiscovered gay husband; but that’s another story). visibility in Lansing or Ruth Ellis by the loss of Alicia Skillman. And That the party was to be with college profs and grad students Center should have more beds Kate Runyon before her. And I was understandably intimidating for unsophisticated me. available to our youths. That is was sad to leave Affirmations. But One of the guests Jack told me was Harry Hay, a easy to say...at the bar, on Facebook, while has to run the organization based on the the stress of the job and the demand to do cofounder – and communist sympathizer, it was rumored – of working out. policies made by the board of directors. more with less became insurmountable for the Mattachine Society. “It’s a group for gays who think it’s But do you write a check every month Of course the executive director me and eventually dealt my on-going back important to organize. I think they should leave well enough to at least one of these organizations? Or needs to raise money – that is clearly a issues a card I could no longer deal with. alone,” said Jack. even once a year? Or better yet, support large part of what they do. We all know Is that what we want for folks like Dave Not too long out of high school and about to socialize with all three organizations? Do you attend that. They write grants, they meet with Garcia, Laura Hughes, Curtis Lipscomb, academic types I decided the best course of action was to keep their events? And that’s just the big donors one-on-one, they schmooze at and a whole host of other talented leaders quiet, smile at any one who seemed interested in me, appear three organizations. What about Kick, Al large parties, they help organize and attend in our community? I don’t think so. believably virginal, and observe. I made many mental notes, Gamea, SPICE? Yes, economic times are special events. But the board is responsible Support these people. Write a check. though being propositioned was not one of them. tough, but I see no shortage of folks at the for doing that as well. They are actually Join a board. Go to an event. And help I can’t remember who our hosts were. Jack said they had theater, or at the bar, or reading Facebook legally responsible to see that the funds are Affirmations and Equality Michigan been a couple for ten years; that the “nelly” of the two was updates about their latest travel adventure raised. They can’t just sit back and expect become one healthy organization with in danger of losing his history professorship for being seen or home furnishing. You say you don’t one person or maybe, if the organization a strong board of directors, a healthy frequenting a “questionable bar”. benefit from any of these organizations? is lucky, two people to raise all the money. and manageable budget, and a team of V-neck sweaters were much in evidence. They became Well, lucky you. Maybe it isn’t about you! I ran three non-profits in my career dedicated and talented staff. I was appalled vogue among gay men after dashing French actor Jean Marais, Maybe it is about the 15 year old who is and, overall, the board of directors at recently when I read on Facebook some rumored lover of film director Jean Cocteau, wore one in the getting bullied. Or the senior citizen who Affirmations was hands down the hardest gay people bashing President Obama for 1946 film “Beauty and the Beast”. (I wore a blue button-down has finally found the courage to come out working and most generous and supportive not doing enough for our community – this short-sleeve shirt and white Levi’s, then tot-lot outfit among to his or her family and needs support. Or group of individuals I have ever worked after he had just come out and supported gay teenagers.) the legislator who is on the fence about an with on a board. But it wasn’t across the gay marriage. Really? This is how our During the evening I saw my first copy of One Magazine. LGBT issue before him on the floor of the board (no pun intended). It takes 100 community treats people who try to do the I was not impressed. “It depends too much on reading content capital. And even if you don’t think so...it percent of the members of the board to right thing? Yes, sadly it is. with too few art illustrations,” I critiqued. “It’s a start,” said does affect you. raise money, ask their friends to support Let’s make that change, okay? Jack. “Who knows?” Statistic after statistic shows that the the organization and, most importantly, Leslie Thompson is currently a comic. Returning home Jack reached over, squeezed my knee. more LGBT people are out, the more their make their own gift. I think the community “May I take liberties?” he giggled. “Not now,” I fumbled. (“Or, friends and neighbors will be supportive in would be shocked to know that there are Learn more about her work at www. ever,” I said to myself.) But months later Jack would change election activity. And these organizations board members of these organizations leslieannthompsoncomic.com my young gay life forever. 14 BTL \ May 24, 2012 \ National News www.PrideSource.com Dharun Ravi sentenced to 30 days in Rutgers webcam spying case BY PAUL SCHINDLER M.B. Prosecutors introduced evidence that on 38 Editor Gay City News occasions in the days before his suicide, Clementi went online to look at a Ravi tweet saying he’d Tyler Clementi, a highly regarded violin viewed his roommate “making out with a dude.” player, was described as a shy college freshman New Jersey law defines invasion of privacy at the time of his suicide. as a sexual offense. Dharun Ravi, a 20-year-old former Rutgers The prosecutor also charged that Ravi University student, convicted on March 16 in deleted a Twitter post alerting others to a connection with incidents in September 2010 in September 21 encounter between the two gay which he used a webcam on his dormitory room men, replacing it “with a false post on Twitter computer to spy on his gay roommate, Tyler intended to mislead the investigation.” Evidence Clementi, was sentenced to 30 days in jail, three was presented showing that the defendant years of probation, 300 hours of counseling on provided false information to investigators and “cyberbullying” and on “alternative lifestyles,” attempted to persuade witnesses not to testify and a $10,000 fine. against him. The jail time was based on concurrent Molly Wei, also a former Rutgers student 30-day sentences for six of the 24 counts on who admitted to having joined Ravi in viewing which Ravi was convicted. He was found guilty Clementi and M.B. remotely via the webcam of multiple counts of invasion of privacy, bias stream, struck a plea deal last year in which intimidation, witness and evidence tampering, she agreed to testify against Ravi, perform and evasion of apprehension. Tyler Clementi committed suicide in Sept. 2010. His roommate, Dharum Ravi was convicted March 16 in community service, and complete a cyber- Judge Glenn Berman ordered that the connection with his use of a webcam to spy on Clementi while he entertained an unidentified man in his dorm room. bullying education program. Steven Goldstein, the chair of Garden sentence – which will be served in jail, not said. While the pre-sentencing letter prepared by but had nonetheless acted with “colossal State Equality, New Jersey’s LGBT rights state prison –w begin on May 31, but gave Ravi Ravi’s attorney offered an apology to Clementi’s insensitivity.” Berman stated that the defendant group, which consistently pressed for a strong the statutorily mandated ten-day stay to file an family, the judge said, it did not mention M.B., was convicted not of a “hate crime,” but rather law enforcement response to Ravi’s crimes, appeal, which his attorney said they plan to do. the 32-year-old man who was also caught on a “bias crime.” expressed disappointment with the sentence. “I have no intention of granting a stay” video as he spent intimate time with Clementi. He said, in deciding on Ravi’s sentence, In a written statement, Goldstein said, “We beyond that period, Berman said, noting that he It was a letter from M.B. urging that Ravi not that his goal was to achieve a response that have spoken out against giving him the maximum does not believe that “an appellate question that be deported that led the judge to make his was “measured... balanced, and if possible sentence of 10 years in jail and against deporting has to be addressed... exists.” recommendation on that question. constructive,” and would “if possible, provide him... But we have similarly rejected the other In a statement several hours after the Berman noted that Ravi’s pre-sentencing a measure of closure,” even though he extreme that Ravi should have gotten no jail sentencing, Middlesex County Prosecutor Bruce letter also failed to acknowledge the seven acknowledged that would be difficult for the time at all, and today’s sentencing is closer to J. Kaplan said that while his office “did not charges related to his cover-up for which he Clementi family. that extreme than the other. This was not merely request the maximum period of incarceration for was convicted. The indictment against Ravi charged that a childhood prank gone awry. This was not a Dharun Ravi, it was expected that his conviction Stating that the witness best able to describe the videotaping and live-streaming of Clementi crime without bias.” on multiple offenses of invading the privacy Ravi’s behavior was dead, the judge pointed out and the other man’s private conduct by Ravi, of two victims on two separate occasions, In a written statement, Christine Quinn, four counts of bias intimidation against Tyler the out lesbian speaker of the New York City Clementi, and the coverup of those crimes, Some gay voices ask whether Ravi’s bias crime prosecution was Council, said, “After the jury in the Tyler would warrant more than a 30-day jail term. The Clementi bullying case showed such courage, imposition of this term is insufficient under the appropriate. Since the time the criminal case against Ravi emerged, the system of justice has failed. Dharun Ravi’s sentencing laws of this state, the facts that were bullying contributed to Tyler’s death. Yet, determined by a jury, and long-standing appellate however, a number of prominent gay figures – including blogger Mr. Ravi has shown no remorse and accepted precedent. Consequently, this office will appeal no responsibility in the case. Still, the court the sentence.” Andrew Sullivan and author and sex columnist Dan Savage, who sentenced him to only 30 days in jail. This is an Clementi, 18, was entertaining another man initiated the “It Gets Better” video campaign just one day before outrageous slap in the face to all who believe in in their room at the time of the spying. Several equal justice for all. I support the prosecution as days after the spying began, Clementi jumped to Clementi’s suicide – spoke out against what they described as a “mob they go forward and appeal this ruling. “ his death from the George Washington Bridge. A Some gay voices ask whether Ravi’s bias star violin player from Ridgewood, New Jersey, mentality” and a “witch-hunt.” crime prosecution was appropriate. Since the he was described, at the time of his suicide, as time the criminal case against Ravi emerged, however, a number of prominent gay figures – a shy young man who had only recently come that Clementi had called the defendant’s behavior a Plainsboro, New Jersey, resident, “intended including blogger Andrew Sullivan and author out to his parents. “wildly inappropriate.” Berman did not allow to intimidate [them] because of their sexual and sex columnist Dan Savage, who initiated In his sentencing, Berman emphasized the jury to hear those words, but said he could orientation.” The defendant, the indictment the “It Gets Better” video campaign just one day that Ravi was not convicted of contributing not put them out of his own mind in coming to continued, had “disclosed a photograph, film, before Clementi’s suicide – spoke out against to Clementi’s death. He also said he would a decision on sentencing. videotape, recording, or other reproduction of the what they described as a “mob mentality” and recommend that the defendant, an immigrant The judge focused a good deal of attention image of T.C. and/ or M.B. whose intimate parts a “witch-hunt.” In the wake of the sentencing, from India, not be deported, though he added on the steps Ravi took to evade law enforcement, were exposed or who were engaged in an act of however, Savage tweeted that 30 days in jail was that a final decision on that was not his, but rather describing that effort as “anything but isolated sexual penetration or sexual contact without the “far, far too lenient.” to be made by federal immigration authorities. and spontaneous... This was cold, calculated, and consent of T.C. and/ or M.B.” Berman was otherwise scathing in his methodically conceived” plan. During the trial, there was testimony that This story originally appeared at http:// comments about the defendant. Berman said Ravi had not “contemplated” the videotaping captured images of Clementi gaycitynews.com “I haven’t heard you apologize once,” he that his conduct would lead to serious harm kissing another man, now 32, identified only as www.PrideSource.com May 24, 2012 / BTL 15 White House objects as House omits LGBTs from domestic violence, defense bills BY LISA KEEN language protects “all victims” of domestic abuse. Despite a warning that President Obama But Rep. Mike Quigley (D-Ill.) made an may exercise his veto power, the U.S. House impassioned argument that “gender neutral on May 16, approved a version of the Violence language is not sufficient.” Against Women Act that omits provisions, “Gay men are not turned away from shelters approved in the Senate, to help LGBT victims because they are men,” said Quigley. “They’re of domestic violence. turned away because of discrimination based on R. Clarke Cooper, head of the national Log their sexual orientation.” Cabin Republican group, issued a statement “I know there are folks who don’t in any prior to the vote urging rejection of the House way possibly have a pro-gay vote on it,” said VAWA bill. Quigley, “but this is protecting human beings. “Nobody should be able It’s the right thing to do.” to get away with domestic Rep. Linda Sanchez abuse just because their (D-Calif.) also lambasted victim is gay, transgender, The Senate version of exclusion of LGBT language an immigrant or Native the bill to reauthorize in the House version. American,” said Cooper, “My Republican friends “and nobody should be the program includes in this body have insisted denied help in recovering on taking back crucial from abuse.” language specifying that protections for abused Cooper noted that victims, said Sanchez. at least three Republican VAWA-funded programs “This Republican bill,” she representatives tried to cannot discriminate said, “pretends the LGBT push for inclusion of LGBT community doesn’t exist and provisions. They include based on the sexual would allow victim service Judy Biggert and Bob Dold organizations to discriminate of Illinois, and Tom Cole of orientation or gender against LGBT victims when Oklahoma. identity of a victim. they seek help.” Rep. Trey Gowdy House Minority Leader (R-S.C.) told a story about Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) a female victim of domestic of San Francisco and Rep. abuse, noting, among other things, that the Xavier Becerra (D-Calif.) of Los Angeles also woman’s husband had called their oldest son faulted the House VAWA for leaving out language “a sexual orientation epithet and put beer in the to help LGBT victims. baby bottle of their youngest child.” But Gowdy, The VAWA has been a popular piece of refusing to yield the floor when his time was legislation with both political parties since up, passionately urged the House bill to “stop 1994, when it was first passed. But this year, the manufactured wars that pit one group of the Senate version of the bill to reauthorize Americans against another group of Americans” the program includes language specifying that and pass the House bill. VAWA-funded programs cannot discriminate But on the floor of the House Wednesday, based on the sexual orientation or gender identity Cole said nothing about elimination of LGBT of a victim. It includes funding for “underserved” protections and urged support of the House populations “who face barriers in accessing VAWA. and using victim services because of various Opposition to the House version and reasons, including because of sexual orientation concern about elimination of provisions for and gender identity.” And it provides that certain LGBT victims came from Democrats. grants under the Omnibus Crime Control and Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) urged rejection Safe Streets Act can be used for “developing, of the bill, noting that it failed to include enlarging, or strengthening programs and language to allow grants to groups focusing on projects to provide services and responses the underserved population of LGBT victims. targeting male and female victims of domestic Rep. Sandy Adams (R-Fla.), the author of violence... whose ability to access traditional the House VAWA, acknowledged being called “homophobic” but said the bill’s gender neutral See Bills page 16 16 BTL \ May 24, 2012 www.PrideSource.com

® Bills Continued from p. 15 services and responses is affected by their Gay judge nominee defeated sexual orientation or gender identity.” Democrats see the Senate version as an attempt to expand protections for more victims of domestic abuse and victims, including LGBT by non-votes, ‘Rule 69’ people, immigrants, and Native Americans, who are disadvantaged under the current law. were cast for the other 40 Republicans see the Senate version as an BY BOB LEWIS nominees combined. attempt to funnel federal funds to progressive RICHMOND, Va. (AP) – It wasn’t the 31 Del. Joe May of groups, such as LGBT health clinics. Both see conservatives in the Virginia House who voted Loudoun said the practice it as an important tool in attracting support from no that denied Tracy Thorne-Begland’s bid to of voting to abstain became women voters. become the first openly gay judge elected to the the preferred means for VAWA provides $650 million annually for bench in Virginia. It was those who abstained expressing opposition to programs to prevent domestic abuse, to train or didn’t vote that did him in. judicial candidates about a law enforcement personnel on how to handle Thorne-Begland, a frontline criminal dozen years ago under former incidents, and provide shelter and other services prosecutor in Richmond, got 33 yes votes, House Speaker S. Vance to victims. mostly from Democrats and eight Republicans Wilkins. According to a 2010 report from the in a vote cast in the wee hours of Tuesday “Voting for judges is National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs, morning. Thirty-one voted no. different from voting for almost 45 percent of LGBT people and people But 10 delegates invoked the House’s ordinary legislation,” May with HIV who sought help from domestic “Rule 69” to cast an abstention vote, and 26 did said. “Over the years, Rule violence shelters in 2010 were turned away not vote at all. Each was just as deadly as any 69 became a way to make a because of “institutionalized anti-LGBTQH vote of no, allowing a legislator to help block statement instead of voting discrimination.” a judicial appointment without the honest sting no. In the end, the thing that The next step for VAWA reauthorization Tracy Thorne-Begland’s bid to become the first openly gay judge elected or accountability of just voting no. matters is whether they have is a Senate-House conference committee to to the bench in Virginia was denied last week. In Virginia, judges must get affirmative 51 votes or not.” hammer out a final version of the bill to be sent votes of majorities in both the 100-member Other House members back to each floor for final approval. House and the 40-member Senate. So Thorne-Begland’s life itself - living with his avoided voting altogether. The White House issued a statement May abstentions and non-votes have the same effect partner in Richmond and raising twins - “would Of the 26 members who did not vote on the 15, identifying President Obama’s objections of denying a nominee a majority while leaving be a contradiction to the constitution you swear Thorne-Begland nomination, eight had voted to the House bill including that,”The bill also constituents to speculate on a legislator’s intent. to uphold and defend.” for the previous nominee just 23 seconds earlier, fails to include language that would prohibit Thorne-Begland fell 18 votes short of the Republicans were not in lockstep against and would be back in their seats voting on the discrimination against LGBT victims in VAWA 51 House votes he needed. In just 15 minutes, Thorne-Begland. Del. Manoli Loupassi, a next nominee just 23 seconds after the roll grant programs.” The statement indicated that, the House voted on 41 nominees, and Thorne- Richmond Republican and private lawyer who closed on the Thorne-Begland vote. Seventeen if Congress sends President Obama the House Begland was the only one whose confirmation has known and practiced against the prosecutor delegates had left the Capitol and missed the version of the legislation, his senior advisors failed. The other 40 were approved with 77 in court for years, urged support for Thorne- entire judicial vote. “would recommend that he veto the bill.” votes or more. Begland not only on the House floor but in “That’s just a way to effectively vote no,” The White House also issued a statement To hear his opponents tell it, the vote had Del. Todd Gilbert, R-Shenandoah, said of the opposing language in a House bill reauthorizing nothing to do with sexual orientation. lone judgeship vote he missed. Department of Defense spending. Among its 31 Tracy Thorne-Begland’s “It’s unfortunate that members on both Thorne-Begland had been a Navy pilot specifically identified objections to H.R. 4310 sides of the aisle focused on lifestyle - being a when he disclosed his sexuality on national was an objection to language, introduced by confirmation ran into gay,” said Del. Christopher Stolle, R-Virginia television, speaking out against the “Don’t Rep. Todd Akin (R-Mo.), prohibiting the use Beach, a physician and, like Thorne-Begland, turbulence a few days before Ask, Don’t Tell” policy President Bill Clinton of base facilities for wedding ceremonies by a former Navy officer. “That wasn’t it at all.” had just imposed. If the Navy was furious, it same-sex couples. One section, 536, states, Thorne-Begland’s confirmation ran into the vote when the socially didn’t show it: Thorne-Begland received an “The Armed Forces shall accommodate the turbulence a few days before the vote when honorable discharge. conscience and sincerely held moral principles conservative Family Foundation the socially conservative Family Foundation May, Stolle and other military veteran and religious beliefs of members of the emailed alerts on May 11 to legislators and emailed alerts on May 11 to delegates contended in Associated Press Armed Forces concerning the appropriate and followers that an openly gay man had been interviews last week that their votes were inappropriate expression of human sexuality.” nominated for the Richmond General District legislators and followers that swayed by Thorne-Begland’s decision to go Section 537 prohibits the use of military Court. public against the policy. The policy was property for “a marriage or marriage-like an openly gay man had been Thorne-Begland had spoken out for gay repealed last September, allowing gays to ceremony involving anything other than the rights, the statement warned: “The question is, serve openly. union of one man with one woman.” nominated for the Richmond will his personal agenda take precedent over That, they said, was a direct affront to “The Administration strongly objects to Virginia law and the Constitution?” General District Court. required standards of military behavior that sections 536 and 537,” said the May 15 White General district courts in Virginia spend forbid active-duty soldiers, sailors, Marines House statement, “because those provisions their days adjudicating traffic tickets and and airmen from speaking out on political and adopt unnecessary and ill-advised policies that misdemeanors, not pondering the weighty the closed confines of the House GOP Caucus. social issues of the day. would inhibit the ability of same-sex couples to constitutional dilemmas of our time. Loupassi and seven other Republicans Del. Steve Landes, R-Augusta, said he marry or enter a recognized relationship under Del. Bob Marshall, the Prince William voted for Thorne-Begland. knew Thorne-Begland was gay and considered State law.” Republican who wrote Virginia’s constitutional Stolle was among 10 delegates to invoke voting for him until he learned that he had The statement threatened to veto the ban on gay marriage and unsuccessfully Rule 69, a House protocol that allows a member spoken out while in the military. Defense authorization bill only on three of the sponsored legislation this year that would have who has “an immediate and personal interest” “Judges have to make judgment calls. In 31 objections. The LGBT objections were not accorded embryos the same legal standing as a in a matter up for a vote to avoid an ethical this case, the gentleman did not show good among the veto threats. person, took up the group’s cause. conflict by voting neither yes or no. judgment. He took an oath and he violated The defense authorization bill passed the Marshall, currying conservative support in Thorne-Begland’s vote, taken at 1:13 a.m. it,” he said. House Armed Services Committee on May 9. his longshot GOP Senate primary bid against Tuesday, presented no such conflicts to any Landes voted to abstain. Debate began on the House floor following the former Gov. George Allen next month, said legislator. Only three other abstention votes VAWA vote. www.PrideSource.com May 24, 2012 / BTL 17 18 BTL \ May 24, 2012 www.PrideSource.com

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S OF BLISHER THE PU FROM m urce.co PrideSo www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com Film / May 24, 2012 / BTL 19 ‘Bernie’ actor talks playing a real-life Southerner who’s ‘light in the loafers’

BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI

s this Jack Black’s first gay role? As a small-town Texan teddy bear who Igoes off the deep end, it might be. But, because the real-life man he’s playing isn’t out, we may never truly know. Enter “Bernie,” an offbeat black comedy based on a true story of a flamboyant people-pleaser who befriends the local she-devil, and then turns on her. As the titular mortician who is, as one townie calls him, “light in the loafers,” Jack – known for fun-loving roles in “School of Rock” and “Tropic Thunder,” and a hilarious kidnapping cameo in last year’s “The Muppets” – is totally non-Black, playing Bernie Tiede with understated finesse, an effeminate lisp and an endearing touch. We got Black on the phone for an exclusive chat about his maybe-gay turn, what he has in common with Bernie and how LGBT rights is a “no-brainer” issue for him.

Was giving Shirley MacLaine a pedicure the gayest thing you’ve done in your career? Yeah, that was pretty gay. I wasn’t really thinking gay or straight while I was doing it. I was really just thinking about giving the best pedicure that I could. I thought that I was damn good. Were you shocked at my proficiency? Very much so. Key is blowing off the excess. That was just instinct. I think maybe I did pedicures in a past life. Does your wife make you give her pedicures now? No. My wife gave me a pedicure the other day. That’s true love, man. The music in the movie isn’t exactly anything like your hardcore comedy band, Tenacious D. What was it like to go into flamboyant musical- Jack Black theater mode for those? It didn’t feel that much of a departure for me, actually. Those songs, I loved singing them. It was a blast. I think they’re actually pretty catchy tunes. (Sings) “Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!” I loved singing that, I got into it. (Maybe) Goes Gay There’s something really joyous about singing about our savior.

See Jack Black, page 25 20 BTL \ May 24, 2012 \ Music www.PrideSource.com

Hear Me Out BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI Adam Lambert gets real on ‘Trespassing’ Plus: Santigold’s revolution-ready LP

“Look at These Hoes” and “Freak Like Me,” does she reverse that incongruity for mindlessness. Otherwise, her message seems to be: bad things happen, but keep on moving. With “Make-Believe,” that shouldn’t be a problem. Grade: B+ Also Out Neon Trees, ‘Picture Show’ On the alt-rock, all-Mormon band’s second LP, it’s Tyler Glenn against the world. With “Teenage Sounds,” after suggesting he’s a switch-hitter, he drops this bomb: “I’m sick of being called fag because I’m queer.” It’s an angry rant, particularly lambasting fame whores, that bites down hard with a feverish rebellion that snarls at anyone who ever pissed him off. If you have, his menacing howl will sting you. Then, there’s “Mad Love,” a sweet ’80s-leaned duet with drummer Elaine Bradley – it’s an easy-going moment not at all Adam Lambert, ‘Trespassing’ Santigold, like Glenn’s temper tantrum. Though more ‘Master of My Adam Lambert isn’t just here “for your Make-Believe’ contrived as it moves along, the ironically entertainment” – the mission statement, and titled “Hooray for Hollywood” is the title, of the “Idol” grad’s debut, a perfunctory There’s nothing band’s low. The song’s a discombobulated, music cherry-popper that entertained but stopping pretentiously arty cautionary tale that, like shied away from any bold assertions. A lot Santigold, and “Vogue,” name drops dead celebs. Teenage changes in three years, though, and the wild that’s not just sounds of love and angst serve Neon Trees rebel – on and off stage, as demonstrated because the Philly so much better. by turning an awards performance into native sets off the long-gestating follow-up to her 2008 debut with the strutting bravado Rye Rye, ‘Go! a sex simulation and, you know, by just Pop! Bang!’ being gay – wants more than to show you of “GO!” Stuttering into a raving cheer like a good time. So, Lambert’s getting down some made-for-roller-skating song out of My introduction to business: quiet come-down “Outlaws the ’80s, and featuring dance-queen Karen to the Maryland of Love,” reserved for the ballad-heavy O, the thrillingly schizo song is just the rapper wasn’t off second half, is a powerful cry for equality start of a dynamic cross-genre work that’s to a great start: wonderfully sung in a near-whisper (his own ultra-absorbing in its sharp observations on though not bad, “Mad World”); “Underneath” gets to his core, the socio-political climate – and, best of all, sampling Robyn where there’s “no apologies”; and the brazen always ear-worming. Hopelessness all of a on first-single “Never Will Be Mine” felt catwalk-made, Pharrell Williams-produced sudden dissipates in the encouraging illusion like an unnecessary, gay-baiting move, a title track screams fierce, like some kind of of “Disparate Youth,” an empowering anthem song that would’ve been nothing without Queen update, and further casts Adam as the of freedom, unification and determination the Swede’s contribution. But Rye Rye’s queerest bad boy (or girl) on the pop block. filtered through an evocatively torched debut, postponed due to pregnancy, is His rabble-rousing spills over into “Cuckoo,” rhythmic recipe. Two standouts, “This Isn’t finally out – and our musical relationship is where he takes full advantage of his right to Our Parade” and “The Riot’s Gone,” could on the mend. Love is in the air on summer- “turn it up and get down” – two things you’ll be addressing a relationship as much as a sounding “Crazy Bitch,” a … uh … cute find yourself guilty of. Basically, with the revolution. Her intention is clearer on the duet with Akon about two psychotic lovers; album’s best hook, it’s hot enough to melt album’s best cut, “The Keepers,” a sure “Boom Boom” is so stupid, and the kind the eyeliner off his face. “Trespassing” is declaration of madness: “While we sleep in of the song that won’t leave your ear hole. certainly more conceptualized than his debut, America, our house is burning down.” The And how about the other sample? Rolling but it’s not a perfect album: “Never Close Our song’s drum rush offers a contradiction that “Annie Get Your Gun” music into “Better Eyes” is Dance Music for Dummies, and the runs through much of “Master of My Make- Than You” is so genius that you start to intentionally darker half drags. Let’s just call Believe”: beats that bounce on songs that are believe that anything you can do, she can those growing pains on his glittery path to considerably bleak. Only a few times, with do better. greatness. Grade: B the aggressively effective but less compelling

www.PrideSource.com Film / May 24, 2012 / BTL 25

Shirley MacLaine and Jack Black in “Bernie.” Photo: Millenium Entertainment

® that is a question I probably should’ve asked. Jack Black “I’ve got a lot of gay and lesbian friends and family, so it’s personal But I didn’t want to. It just felt personal, like Continued from p. 19 none of my business. I don’t want to ask to me when people and the government start talking about them as someone their (sexual orientation); that’s less than. It just seems like one of the no-brainers in our society.” for him to say. I mean, I’ve got my feelings You’re biased. You were Jesus in Funny or Die’s – obviously I felt like I was playing him “Prop 8: The Musical.” Speaking of which, how accurately – but he never came out himself, did that come about? so I wouldn’t be bringing him out if he didn’t want to come out. It’s such a big part of who he I had worked with Marc Shaiman on the Oscars; I don’t know. It’s hard to say. But it’s not a town that they were just friends and travel is, and the character of Bernie, I feel like he’s we did a thing with me and Will Ferrell where that had, at the time anyway, a lot of people out companions. He was her servant; that was their got a secret he’s been living with his whole we were presenting for Best Original Song. of the closet just being who they really were. relationship. It was more of a master/slave life. In a small town in east Texas, you’re not Anyway, I knew Marc Shaiman so he called me But the love was pretty intense, so I think he relationship than a true friendship, but there gonna come out and be all open. That speaks to up, I believe, and said, “Hey, we’re doing this would’ve remained popular if he had just come was an element of love and friendship there, the secrets that we carry. thing on Prop 8,” and I was like, “Let’s do it.” out. I mean, there would definitely be some too, and there was a codependency. haters; there is lots of homophobia in that neck One of his character flaws is that he has to Well, do you know of any straight men who Why was this important for you to be a part of? of the woods. be loved; he was the most popular in this small would get pedicures and listen to show tunes It’s a rights issue. I’ve got a lot of gay and town for a reason – because he wanted to be. Did you shoot in the actual town of He wanted everyone to like him, and she was and make curtains? lesbian friends and family, so it’s personal to me Carthage, Texas? when people and the government start talking a tough nut to crack. She didn’t really want to Let me think about this. Wait a second. I’ve got about them as less than. It just seems like one We shot it near Austin. We never went to east like him, and he had to work on her. If you two out of three there. I’ve got a big musical- of the no-brainers in our society. There are not Texas, to the actual place. It’s a lot different, didn’t like him, he’d make it his life’s mission theater background from high school. I was a lot of no-brainers where you’re like, “This is actually. If you’re in and around Austin, that’s to get you to like him. I think he was truly a big musical-theater nerd; Ben Vereen was right and that is wrong and I’m definitely on this sort of a blue oasis in a sea of red – that’s where I afraid that if he ever left her that she would my hero. And pedicures – I love a pedicure. side,” where you want to go out and sing about would live if I lived in Texas. I actually would love hate him, and he couldn’t live with that – so he Someone’s gotta scrape off the cement down it and do things. But it feels good to be on the to live in Austin. It’s pretty groovy, pretty open. stayed for an unhealthy amount of time until there on the heel. It’s like the surface of Mars right side of history. he just snapped. down there. As for curtain making, that’s What did you make of Shirley MacLaine’s where I draw the line. I just have no interest in What’s your take on Bernie’s homosexuality as The community Bernie lived in speculated that he character, Marge? that. But I am sure there are straight dudes who it’s implied in the film? might be gay. Do you feel, despite how adored he They were just friends. (Bernie) volunteered have the trifecta under their belts. I’m certain was, they would’ve turned on him if he were out? that they had never had any sexual relations, You know, I met him and I talked to him and of it. 26 BTL \ May 24, 2012 \ Ann Arbor www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com Ann Arbor / May 24, 2012 / BTL 27

Rufus, Bonnie Raitt to headline Summer Fest 29th annual season also includes Ira Glass, Feist and Nellie McKay

From soul legends and songbook crooners Bonnie Raitt (with special guest Marc Cohn), 8 p.m. to aerial acrobats and urban storytellers, the new May 25. Hill Auditorium. $35.50-$65.50. Ann Arbor Summer Festival season runs June More than just a best-selling artist, respected 15 through July 8 and features an eclectic mix guitarist, expressive singer and accomplished of music, dance, comedy, film, spoken word, songwriter, Bonnie Raitt (pictured above) has contemporary circus and family entertainment. become an institution in American music. With Now celebrating its 29th season, the a unique style that blends blues, R&B, rock, festival’s Mainstage series features a variety and pop, this nine-time Grammy Award winner of performing artists. The festival’s Mainstage returns to Ann Arbor in support of her newest performances take place in Power Center for album, “Slipstream.” Marc Cohn opens the show. the Performing Arts, Hill Auditorium and the At the artist’s request, fifty cents of each ticket Michigan Theater. The outdoor activities at Top sold for this concert will be donated to the ARIA of the Park continue at Ingalls Mall, located Foundation. directly in front of the Horace H. Rackham School of Graduate Studies on Washington Street Feist (with special guest near the Burton Memorial Tower. The Low Anthem). 8 p.m. The Ann Arbor Summer Festival is an exhilarating celebration of performing arts, June 5. Power Center, outdoor entertainment, and community spirit. $30-$50. A boutique music and arts festival, the three- For nearly a decade, week gathering offers an array of ticketed and Leslie Feist did not stop free events, both indoors and out, featuring moving. Her 2004 Juno a progressive mix of local, national and award-winning album international artists. Presenting over 100 events “Let It Die” led right into 2007’s “The Reminder,” each season and attracting a diverse audience of which earned her four Grammy nominations, six more than 60,000 people, the festival continues Juno wins, the Shortlist Music Prize and the to grow as a major cultural event in the Ann opportunity to teach Muppets to count on Sesame Arbor community, and as a leading multi-arts Street. She then made her “Saturday Night Live” celebration that enriches the cultural, economic debut and toured the world. Feist appears in and social vitality of the region. This year’s support of her newest album, “Metals.” The Low lineup includes: Anthem opens the show.

See Summer Fest, page 29 28 BTL \ May 24, 2012 \ Ann Arbor www.PrideSource.com

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® Summer Fest torch songs to Doris Day standards, the ivory- Continued from p. 27 tinkling crooner offers an irresistible cocktail of vintage jazz classics, charming originals, and plenty of tongue-in-cheek humor. Sneakin’ Out Ira Glass, Reinventing Radio: An Evening with Ira opens the show. Glass (Co-presented by Michigan Radio Saturday). 8 p.m. June 23. Power Center. $35-$55. The Moth Mainstage, Under the Influence: Stories The creator of the public radio’s “This American Life” (pictured above) talks about his program that Shape and Shake Us and how the show is put together. As part of this, (co-presented by Michigan Glass mixes stories from the show, live onstage, Radio). 8 p.m. June 28. combining his narration with pre-taped quotes Michigan Theater. $35 and music, recreating the sound of the show as General Admission. the audience watches. The Moth, New York’s hottest literary phenomenon, is an acclaimed Pilobolus. 7 p.m. June 24 nonprofit organization dedicated to the art of Power Center. $10-$50. storytelling. After its sold-out performance at An American institution last year’s festival, The Moth Mainstage returns for nearly 40 years, to Ann Arbor with an all-star line-up of favorite Pilobolus returns to Ann tellers and local gems, each with a ten-minute Arbor with its dancers story told live without notes. who leap, fly, intertwine, and break all of the rules. Rufus Wainwright. 8 p.m. With styles ranging from playful to intense June 30. Power Center. to gravity- defying, the company has been $30-$50. universally celebrated for its startling mix of Affectionately referred humor, intelligence, physical invention, and raw to by Elton John as “the athleticism. greatest songwriter on the planet” and praised An Evening with Nellie by The New York Times McKay (with special guest for his “genuine originality,” Rufus Wainwright’s Sneakin’ Out). 8 p.m. June lush, theatrical pop offerings hark back to the 27. Power Center. $25 traditions of Tin Pan Alley, cabaret, and even General Admission. opera. Wainwright appears in support of his Nellie McKay’s music is newest album, “Out of the Game.” as tuneful and clever as For more information, including the complete the best of the Great American Songbook – part lineup, visit the festival website at A2SF.org. cabaret, part sparkly pop. From time-honored 30 BTL \ May 24, 2012 \ Ann Arbor www.PrideSource.com

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13 Abracadabra Jewelry & Gem Gallery..... 1 D’orio, Jd, Plc, Lynn B...... 6 Natures Garden Center...... * Spectrum Center...... 13 Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra...... 2 Drescher, D.D.S., Peter R...... * Necto...... 9 Three Chairs Co...... 14 The Ark...... 3 Esquire Interiors...... * Orion Automotive Services Inc...... * Tios Mexican Cafe...... 15 /aut/ Bar...... 4 Groom N Go ...... * People’s Food Coop...... 10 Top of the Lamp...... * B. Ella Bridal...... * Hillers...... * Performance Network...... 11 Trillium Real Estate...... 4 Bennett Optometry...... 5 HIV/AIDS Resource Center (Harc)...... * Peterson, PLLC, Lisa J...... 12 Two Men And A Truck...... * Coalition for Adoption Rights Humane Society of Huron Valley...... * PFLAG Ann Arbor...... * UMHS Comprehensive Equality, Inc. (CARE)...... * Jim Toy Resource Center...... 4 Rock Shoppe...... * Gender Services Program...... * Common Language...... 4 Men’s Yoga...... 7 Rosenberg, David ...... 7 University Musical Society...... 16 Dependable Collision Center...... * Mitchell Gold & Bob Williams...... 8 Sh\aut\ Cabaret and Gallery...... 4 VCA Animal Hospital...... * * Not shown on map

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Visit our website! http://www.pridesource.com Add our fan page! Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” Follow us! @YourBTL 32 BTL \ May 24, 2012 \ Theater www.PrideSource.com

“Beyond Therapy” continues at the Michigan Actors Studio in Ferndale through June 3. Photo: Detroit Ensemble Theatre Bending it like Peckham creation of the 1980s, but it takes awhile BY MARTIN F. KOHN REVIEW to figure that out. There are no fashion The big black inkblots on the bright Beyond Therapy shortcuts to the 1980s the way there are white backdrop in Detroit Ensemble for the 1950s or ‘60s. Dressed as they Theatre’s “Beyond Therapy” look like… The Detroit Ensemble Theatre at Michigan Actors Studio, 648 E. Nine Mile Road, are, none of the characters would raise well, what do you think they look like? Ferndale. Friday-Sunday through June 3. an eyebrow today in downtown Ferndale. Don’t spend too much time trying 110 minutes. $18. 877-636-3320. Thus, the first 1980s pop culture to puzzle it out. The Rorschach test, www.detroitensembletheatre.org reference seems anachronistic. As they courtesy of set designer Barton Bund, pile up – “Three’s Company,” serial could provide a distraction in case things (Annabelle Young) answers Bruce’s killer David Berkowitz, “Equus,” the get slow, but Kate Peckham’s staging, (Peter Prouty) personal ad. They do not advertising slogan “Reach out and executed by actors who have obvious hit it off. Her problem is that she tends to touch someone” – you get the idea, but relish for Christopher Durang’s episodic jump into lousy relationships; she might comedy, allows little chance for that. as well be called Imprudence. Written and set in the 1980s His problem is that he’s uncertain (although it takes a while to realize it), of his sexual orientation. For starters, After this disaster of the play bears a certain resemblance to he lives with his boyfriend, Bob (Joe another funny holdover from back then: Plambeck), whom we’ll meet later. a first date, each goes David Letterman’s Top 10 list. This one After this disaster of a first date, running off to his or might be called “Top 10 Signs That Your each goes running off to his or her Therapist Needs a Therapist More Than therapist – Bruce to Charlotte, Prudence her therapist – Bruce You Do.” Number 1: She holds a stuffed to Stuart - and things only get funnier Snoopy in her lap and goes “Ruff ruff from there. to Charlotte, Prudence ruff!” by way of affirmation. Number 2: In both Prouty and Young’s He begins an affair with you after your performances, perpetual confusion and to Stuart - and things second session. Number 3: She is unable eternal hope appear to be in everlasting to remember simple but important words co-existence and conflict. As caricatured only get funnier from like “patient” or “secretary,” as in, “Send as they are, they are decent souls and in the next porpoise.” the audience never stops rooting for there. Sonja Marquis and Stephen them. The same goes for Bob, whom Blackwell play the therapists, Charlotte Plambeck fills in nicely, sometimes only and Stuart, with suitably different styles with his eyes. they make the play seem quaint. This is of crazy. Marquis is unrelentingly While the first act dazzles, the unfortunate, because the satire holds up, cheerful and effusive (“Ruff ruff ruff!”). second act loses focus, something Durang even if the references don’t. Blackwell doesn’t walk, he swaggers, attempts to compensate for by throwing and if he were any more full of himself everyone together in a climactic scene. Interestingly, the song that stands as he would explode. Nobody short of the Marx Brothers metaphor for what Bruce and Prudence Neither one seriously listens to their could pull it off, although Peckham want out of life holds up very well. respective porpoises – uh, patients, Bruce and company do their best to make it a Neither one knows the words, except for and Prudence. The latter are a couple who madcamp romp. its signature line: “Someone to watch first meet in a restaurant after Prudence As noted earlier, the play is a over me.” It’s from the 1920s. www.PrideSource.com Theater / May 24, 2012 / BTL 33

"Nunsense" continues through June 10. Photo: The Encore Musical Theatre Company. Nuns raise funds and voices in Dexter

BY DONALD V. CALAMIA REVIEW Since their off-Broadway debut in 1985, Nunsense The Little Sisters of Hoboken are among the most famous nuns ever to hit the stage. They pop The Encore Musical Theatre Company, 3126 Broad up pretty much everywhere, on stages large and St., Dexter. Thursday-Sunday through June 10. $18. 734-268-6200. small, and they generally pack the house with an appreciative audience who can't seem to get www.theencoretheatre.org enough of their crazy antics – so much so, that the Mary Regina (the Mother Superior) tackles the original "Nunsense" has spawned a half-dozen or role reminiscent of the late character actress Dody so sequels and three spin offs. Obviously, creator Goodman. (For you younger-folk who haven't a Dan Goggin knows how to build and maintain a clue who that is, that's a compliment.) Madison successful franchise. Deadman's Sister Mary Leo, the novice, is sweet But nuns? Who'd a thought! and angelic, while Mary Rumman's flexible Actually, as Goggin and Maripat Donovan and expressive face is perfect for Sister Mary of the "Late Night Catechism" series have Amnesia. Sue Booth as the tough, Brooklyn-born discovered, nuns sell – and the latest theater Sister Robert Anne is fun to watch, thanks to her hoping to be blessed with a heavenly bonanza of ticket sales is The Encore Musical Theatre gestures. And Amy Smidebush shakes the rafters Company in Dexter, which is presenting the with the gospel-inspired "Holier Than Thou" at initial "Nunsense" through June 10. the show's conclusion. The premise – for the five or so of you who As I left the show after the opening night haven't seen the show yet – is simple: A cooking performance, I was a bit perplexed. "Something accident by convent cook Sister Julia, Child of was missing," I thought – and then it hit me: God, has wiped out 52 members of the Little I realized the show's strongest assets are the Sisters of Hoboken. Forty-eight of them have singing voices (although a few are sometimes too been buried, but a purchase of a new VCR by soft to reach much beyond the first few rows); the Mother Superior has left them short of funds the comedy is a distant second. to send the remaining four to their heavenly Having seen far more productions of the reward. (They're currently "on ice" in the convent original "Nunsense" than I can remember, I refrigerator.) So the surviving nuns decide to put usually leave the show thoroughly entertained by on a show to raise the remaining burial funds. And the silly comedy. Yes, the plot is fairly thin and as luck would have it, several of the good sisters the jokes are hokey, but in Cullen's production, have stars in their eyes and the talent to pull it off. the comedy seems to be an afterthought – or As the nuns say in an early song, Goggin's something to be plowed through until the next purpose is to show "the humor of the nun," and as musical number. As such, many of the jokes fall you can imagine, "Nunsense" does indeed show flat, or are delivered too quickly. "Didn't they the human side of what was once a very mysterious understand them?" I wondered. "Or were they (and sometimes spooky) group of women who not comfortable yet with the comedy?" I'm still educated generations of Catholic kids throughout not sure what the disconnect is. the world. The humor is silly and mostly clean – But the musical numbers? They were with a few groaners tossed here and there for good generally well delivered and fun, culminating in measure – and the songs help move the story along. Smidebush's knock-em-dead final song. But the success of the show depends on the The production's technical elements all women who wear the habits and bring Goggin's serve the show well, from Leo Babcock's set to characters to life. And in the regard, The Encore's Daniel Walker's lights. production has been blessed with a talented So while Cullen and company reach for the and hardworking cast, thanks to Director and heavens with their production of "Nunsense," Choreographer Barbara F. Cullen. they fall somewhat short – just like most of us Each of the women creates a unique and do in our daily lives. And isn't that what the good identifiable character. Barbara Scanlon's Sister sisters taught me way back in grade school? 34 BTL \ May 24, 2012 \ Happenings PrideSource.com

Start Your Engines for Motor City Pride 7774 Sashabaw, Clarkston. 7:30 p.m. 8 p.m. Motor City Pride kickoff event May 25. 248-377-0100. Palacenet.com right in downtown Detroit. A sexy sassy MUSIC & MORE party atmosphere with larger than life The Palace Drake’s “The Club Paradise Happenings performances from Marie Vonteese and CLASSICAL Tour,” with special guests J. Cole, Wake MeChella Shannon of Battle of the Dragons, Detroit Symphony Orchestra “Chamber Flocka Flame, Meek Mill, 2 Chainz and Lula La Rose, shimmy and belly dance Works of Mozart and Prokofiev” Join DSO French Montana. Tickets: $35.75- Saturday, May 26 Monday, May 28 extraordinaire Xerxes. DJ Maestro, is on for a dynamic, varied program of chamber 109.75. DTE Energy Music Theatre, 7774 ALIVE Youth Group Meeting 2 p.m. All Pedal Paddle Picnic 10 a.m. A day of the sounds and two of the Metro Detroit’s music featuring the Mozart duo for violin Sashabaw , Clarkston. 7 p.m. May 30. OUTINGS 248-377-0100. Palacenet.com LGBT and allied youth 14-20 encouraged outdoor activities with Get Out And Live at most beloved MC’s, the lovely Mae James and viola and virtuosic Prokofiev Oboe Thursday, May 24 to join. 4th Saturday of every month is Stoney Creek Metro Park. Get Out And Live!, and bad boy B ez, will be hosting. Tickets: Quintet. Tickets: $15. Max M. Fisher Music Social Justice Saturday. As some meetings 4300 Main Park Dr., Shelby Township. Center, 3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 7:30 OTHER 10 a.m. Legislators $15. Imagine Entertainment, 2739 Russell Equality Action Day are held around town, contact ALIVE 248-943-2411. GetOutAndLive.me p.m. May 24. 313-576-5111. DSO.org Movement “Movement Electronic Music in Lansing need to hear from you. Join St., Detroit. 313-658-4085. Facebook. prior to attending meetings. ALIVE Youth Festival” One of the largest electronic music Equality Michigan and leaders from com/events/250283581732550/ Group, 132 Water St., Benton Harbor. Sexual Compulsives Anonymous Kerrytown Concert House “Phoenix festivals in the country, Movement will around the state as we raise our voices [email protected] 7 p.m. A weekly anonymous 12-step Motor City Pride Boat Ride 10 p.m. A Phest Faculty Concert” PhoenixPhest! feature a variety of artists including Claude at Equality Action Day on Thursday, May group for those who are facing sexually boat ride fundraiser for Motor City Pride. is a 3-day chamber music festival held VonStroke, Major Lazer, SBTRKT and many 24. You can participate free of charge and compulsive behaviors. Affirmations, 290 Featuring the first Mr. and Mrs. Motor City on the campus of Eastern Michigan other artists. Tickets and passes range from lunch is included. Equality Michigan, 419 W. 9 Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. King and Queen (non-gender specific) University in Ypsilanti, MI. PhoenixPhest! $45-80. Hart Plaza, 1 Hart Plaza, Detroit. Washington Square St., Lansing. Roland@ GoAffirmations.org For more information call or e-mail. LOCS provides a unique opportunity for May 26 - May 28. Movement.us equalitymi.org Equalitymi.org Network, 201 Civic Center Drive, Detroit. musicians of all ages to play with and be coached by experienced professional Penn Theatre “The Man Who Knew Too Civic Engagement Committee 1 p.m. Tuesday, May 29 853-313-LOCS. Locsnetwork@gmail Equalitymi.org musicians in pre-formed, or “Phoenix- Much” 1956 film for Penn Theatre’s May Fourth Thursday of the month. Empowering Transgender Life Support 7 p.m. Offering phormed” groups Since its formation classics. Tickets: $3. Penn Theatre, 760 people to advocate for themselves and the support, education, resources and a social Saturday, June 2 as a nonprofit organization in 1998, Penniman Ave., Plymouth. 6:30 p.m. May LGBT community is key to creating effective structure for Transgender individuals. The Phoenix Ensemble has been a 24. 734-453-0870. PennTheatre.com change. Organizes to educate and resource Facilitated by Arlene Kish, Lorraine Kalamazoo Invades Oval Beach 10 resource for artists and the educational our community members to make a Brown, Jessica Manko, Tracy Hoover, a.m. Kalamazoo LGBT community will community. Donations appreciated. Pump House Concerts “Pumpstock” The difference in our community. E-mail to learn Helena Blakemore, Marty Howland and caravan to Saugatuck’s Oval Beach to Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N. Fourth American Roots Music Festival. Admission: more. OutCenter, 132 Water St., Benton Colt Stacer. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine enjoy the sunshine and spread word of Ave., Ann Arbor. 7:30 p.m. May 26. 734- $10 donation. Music, local food vendors, Harbor. [email protected] Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. Kalamazoo Pride, June 9. Kalamazoo 769-2999. KerrytownConcertHouse.com face painting, and a playground providing OutCenter.org Transgenderlifesupport.org Pride, 820 Maple Hill Drive, Kalamazoo. fun for the entire family. Lineup: Tommy Kglrc.org/pride Womack Band, Harpeth Rising, Bill Bynum Legal Referral Services 4 p.m. Weekly Wednesday, May 30 and the Martine Locke Trio. Bailey Park, advocacy program and referral services Pedal Paddle Picnic with GOAL Motor City Pride 11 a.m. Motor City Pride 300 Bailey St., East Lansing. 2 p.m. provided by AJ Skillman. AJ Skillman P.C., God Rocks in the Stream 7 p.m. Support is a volunteer-driven event celebrating the June 2. 517-927-2100. Facebook.com/ 290 W. 9 Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398- group for LGBT or allied Christians lives of Michigan’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, events/315640481847815/ 7105. Goaffirmations.org Mitten Mavens Roller Derby Double feeling unheard. Offering the spiritual and transgender residents and their Header 6 p.m. Celebrating their second and emotional support of like-minded allies. A weekend packed with multiple St. Mary’s Preparatory “St. Mary’s KGLRC Youth Group 7 p.m. The Resource anniversary as a league. The Mavens and individuals. Meets last Wednesday of events including a family picnic, golf Polish Country Fair” Nation’s largest high Center Youth Group helps young people, junior team, the Cap City Wild Childs, take every month. Gays in Faith Together, outing, commitment ceremony, parade, school country fair returns to Orchard ages 13 to 18, who are trying to come to to the track. Mitten Mavens Lansing Roller 207 E. Fulton St., Grand Rapids. and beer garden. More information at Lake. Pierogies, Polish apparel and Texas terms with their sexuality in a sometimes- Derby, 7977 Centerline Dr., Dimondale. GaysinFaithTogether.org MotorCityPride.org Equality Michigan, 1 Holdem to benefit Orchard Lake St. unaccepting society. Meets every [email protected] Mittenmavens.net Hart Plaza, Detroit. MotorCityPride.org Mary’s Preparatory. Officially kicks off Thursday from 7-9 p.m. at a confidential Network Men’s Group 7 p.m. A support summertime on Memorial Day Weekend. location. To attend, call or e-mail the group for bisexual, gay, and coming out Sunday, May 27 Sunday, June 3 More information at website. St. Mary’s resource center. Kalamazoo Gay and men, 21 and up. Single or partnered Preparatory, 3535 Indian Trail, Orchard Lesbian Resource Center, 629 Pioneer, Lezread 4 p.m. Ann Arbors book group for are invited to join the group. Weekly Motor City Pride 11 a.m. Motor City Lesbians. Meets the last Sunday of every Lake. 11 a.m. May 25. 248-683-0514. Kalamazoo. 269-349-4234. Kglrc.org discussion topics and issues. The Pride is a volunteer-driven event Stmaryspolishcountryfair.com month. Lezread, 319 Braun Court, Ann Network, 345 Atlas Ave., Grand Rapids. celebrating the lives of Michigan’s One Direction at Fox Theatre Friday, May 25 Arbor. 734-678-2478. [email protected] 616-458-3511. Grlgbt.org lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender Wharton Center for the Performing residents and their allies. A weekend Arts at Michigan State University Womyn’s Film Night 7 p.m. “Tipping the TransCend 4:30 p.m. Open to persons CONCERTS packed with multiple events including a Jerry Seinfeld. Due to popular demand, Velvet Part 3” An unusual love story told 18 and older. Younger are welcome with Friday, June 1 Detroit Symphony Orchestra “A Night at family picnic, golf outing, commitment America’s premier comedian is hitting the in three episodes charts the course of parent or guardian permission. Kalamazoo S.P.I.C.E. 7:30 p.m. To empower and the Cotton Club” Smoky. Sultry. Swingin’. ceremony, parade, and beer garden. road in a return to his first love - stand-up Nan. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Gay Lesbian Resource Center, 629 Pioneer enhance the lives of women of color in the Your table is reserved, right near the More information at MotorCityPride.org comedy. Tickets available online. Wharton Ferndale. 248-398-7105. Goaffirmations.org Street, Kalamazoo. 269-349-4234. Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered and band, at The Cotton Club. It’s a salute to Equality Michigan, 1 Hart Plaza, . Center for the Performing Arts at Michigan [email protected] kglrc.org Questioning community in Metropolitan Detroit the “Hi De Ho” swing of Cab Calloway... MotorCityPride.org State University, Michigan State University, Drag Queen Bingo 8 p.m. “This ain’t your Detroit, by eradicating the health, social and the elegant “Satin Doll” sheen of Duke grandma’s bingo.” Hosts Sabin, Trixie Conversation Station 5 p.m. LGBTQI (and East Lansing. 7 p.m. May 31. 517-353- educational barriers facing them. Meetings 1 a.m. Ellington...and the blistering blast of Deluxxe or September Murphy. Open to all allies) 25 and over, join GOAL each week for New Volunteer Orientation 1982 ext. 14. Whartoncenter.com are on the first Friday of every month. Become a volunteer for the country’s Satchmo. Tickets: $19. Max M. Fisher 18+. Refreshments and bingo food fare. discussion, food and fun. This week’s topic: If S.P.I.C.E., 290 W. 9 Mile Road, Ferndale. oldest all-volunteer crisis intervention Music Center, 3711 Woodward Ave., Zumba Fitness with Chandra Floyd Reservations available by phone. Five15, you had a chance to go back and relive any 248-398-7105. Goaffirmations.org center. Volunteers are an awesome LGBT- Detroit. June 1 - June 3. 313-576-5111. “Zumba Fitness in Midtown Detroit” 515 S. Washington, Royal Oak. 248-515- day of your life, what day would that be? Get friendly community. Calls include mental DSO.org De-stress and party yourself into shape 2551. Five15.net Out And Live!, 714 S. Washington St., Royal Pride Art Hop Reception 8 p.m. Art health crisis, sexual identity crisis, fear of with this calorie scorching, exhilarating, Oak. 248-981-4227. MarciLWilliams@ from LGBT community will be on display Olympia Entertainment One Direction. coming out, suicide, and sexual assault. and easy to follow workout with Latin and MDFFL Mixer 9 p.m. Meet the MDFFL yahoo.com GetOutAndLive.me and available for purchase. Suggested Pop sensation One Direction will be hitting The Listening Ear Crisis Hotline, 2504 E. international music. Admission: $8 per football players. Come join and support donation: $5. Kalamazoo Gay and Lesbian the road for their first-ever headlining Michigan Ave., . 517-337-1717. class. International Institute, 111 E. Kirby, Metro Detroit Flag Football. Metro Detroit Resource Center, 411 N Westnedge Ave, Lansing North American tour and returning to [email protected] Theear.org Detroit. April 25 - Sep. 26. 313-587-6203. Flag Football League, 23365 Hoover Road, Kalamazoo. Kglrc.org/pride Detroit’s historic Fox Theatre. Tickets: Warren. 586-806-2390. MDFFL.org Facebook.com/ZumbaWithChandraMI GOAL Book Club 4 p.m. Get Out and $30-60. Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward Live’s LGBT Book Club. Meets the first Ave., Detroit. 7:30 p.m. June 1. 313-471- Sunday of every month at Five15 in 6611. Olympiaentertainment.com Royal Oak. Get Out And Live!, 515 S The Ark Suzanne Westenhoefer got her start THEATER Washington, Royal Oak. 248-515-2551. when the Sally Jessy Raphael Show featured Editor’s Pick GetOutAndLive.me her in an episode devoted to “Lesbians Who CIVIC/COMMUNITY THEATER A Funny Thing Happened on the Way Drawing upon art historical images from Alpha 5 p.m. Come out for live Don’t Look Like Lesbians.” Since then it’s entertainment, a silent auction, and been one hilarious triumph after another, as to the Forum $22. St. Dunstan’s Theatre Asia and the West, Korean artist Lee-nam fundraising for Kalamazoo Pride. $10 Suzanne has kept asking tough questions Guild, 400 Lone Pine Rd., Bloomfield Lee employs digital technology to offer new admission. Kalamazoo Pride, 125 S. that uncover laughs underneath. Tickets: Hills. June 1 - 16. 888-71TICKETS. www. Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo. Kglrc.org/pride $26. The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. stdunstanstheatre.com interpretations of iconic works of art. June 2. 734-761-1800. TheArk.org Conversation Station 6 p.m. LGBTQI (and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels $12-19. Witness classic paintings come to life allies) 25 and over, join GOAL each week The Ark “Stella!” Stella!, a four-piece, Kalamazoo Civic Theatre at Civic Auditorium, through Lee’s exhibit “A Conversation between for discussion, food and fun. This week’s all-women, American roots band from 329 S. Park St., Kalamazoo. Through May topic: If you could ask any one person Detroit, Michigan, has been referred to 27. 69-343-1313. www.Kazoocivic.com Monet and Sochi” at the Kalamazoo Institute as a singer-songwriter super group with three questions and be guaranteed Follies $18-20. Riverwalk Theatre, 228 three-part vocal harmonies and four of Arts through Aug. 18. honest responses, whom would you ask Museum Dr., Lansing. May 31 - June 10. songwriter voices. Tickets: $15. The Ark, Drawing upon art historical images from and what would you ask? GOAL, 714 S. 517-482-5700. www.riverwalktheatre.com Washington St., Royal Oak. 248-981- 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. May 25. Asia and the West, Lee-nam Lee employs digital 4227. [email protected] 734-761-1800. TheArk.org Honus and Me $12-23. Kalamazoo Civic Theatre at Parish Theatre, 329 S. Park St., technology to offer new interpretations of iconic works of art. In this exhibit, images GetOutAndLive.me The Ark Marcia Ball Tickets: $30. The Ark, Kalamazoo. Through May 26. 269-343- 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. May 26. of the Western artist Claude Monet and Korean artist Sochi are projected alongside one Transgender Lansing Group Meeting 1313. www.kazoocivic.com another. Lee manipulates and changes the projected images to bring the paintings to 6 p.m. Lansing chapter of Transgender 734-761-1800. TheArk.org Romeo and Juliet Guest speakers begin Michigan meets the first Sunday of The Palace Eddie Money. Eddie life. Seasons change, day turns to night, fisherman in the Monet sail into the Sochi. The at 6 p.m. $5. Warren Civic Theatre Youth every month from 6-9 p.m. Transgender Money is an American rock guitarist, and Teen at City Square Park at City Hall, result is visual poetry. Lansing, 469 N. Hagadorn, East Lansing. saxophonist and singer-songwriter who 1 City Square, Warren. May 26 - 27. 586- Facebook.com/groups/56386266994/ found success in the 1970s and 1980s “A Conversation between Money and Sochi” will be on exhibit at the KIA, 314 S. 268-8400. www.WarrenCivic.org with a string of Top 40 hits and platinum Park St., in Kalamazoo. For more information, go to KIArts.org or call 269-349-7775. albums. Tickets: $10 lawn, $34.50 The Bad Seed $16-18. Stagecrafters at pavilions. DTE Energy Music Theatre, Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. Lafayette Ave., www.PrideSource.com Happenings / May 24, 2012 / BTL 35

M. Butterfly Previews May 2,3 5. $36-43. The Great Big Bar Show $20. Barn Farmington Downtown Development The Jewish Ensemble Theatre Company Theatre, 13351 W. M-96, Augusta. May Authority “Art on the Grand” A at Aaron DeRoy Theatre, 6600 W. Maple 29 - June 3. 269-731-4121. www. juried fine arts fair, Art on the Grand Road, West Bloomfield. Through May 27. BarnTheatre.com will showcase over 100 fine artists 248-788-2900. www.JETTheatre.org and crafts persons from across the The Understudy $20-25. Williamston country. Walter E. Sundquist Pavilion , May Festival of Readings Every Tuesday Theatre, 122 S. Putnam St., Williamston. 33113 Grand River Ave., Farmington. evening. $7 for most readings; “8” is Through June 17. 517-655-7469. www. June 1 - June 3. 248-473-7276. free, $15 for “A Connemara Ceili.”. Flint williamstontheatre.org Downtownfarmington.org/Downtown- Youth Theatre, 1220 E. Kearsley St., Flint. Thursdays at Go Comedy! $15. Go Events/Whats-Happening/Art-on-the- Through May 29. 810-237-1530. www. Grand FlintYouthTheatre.org Comedy! Improv Theater, 261 E. Nine Mile Rd., Ferndale. Through Aug. 2. 248-327- Flint Institute of Arts “Abstract New Work Collage 2012: Taking 0575. www.gocomedy.net Expressionism” First specifically Chances $10. The New Theatre Project American art movement to achieve at Mix Studio Theater, 130 W. Michigan Wednesdays at Go Comedy! Go Comedy! Improv Theater, 261 E. Nine Mile Rd., international influence and put New York Ave., Ypsilanti. June 1 - 3. www. City as the new center of the western Jerry Seinfield at the Wharton Center thenewtheatreproject.org Ferndale. Through May 30. 248-327-0575. www.gocomedy.net art world. 1120 E. Kearsley, Flint. May 5 Royal Oak. June 1 - 17. 248-541-6430. Nunsense $18. The Encore Musical - Aug. 19. 810-234-1695. Flintarts.org White Buffalo $17.50-40. The Purple www.Stagecrafters.org Theatre Company, 3126 Broad St., Dexter. Rose Theatre Company, 137 Park St., Grand Rapids Art Museum “Cities in Through June 10. 734-268-6200. www. Transition” This suite of interdisciplinary The Eelwax Jesus 3-D Pop Music Show theencoretheatre.org Chelsea. Through June 2. 734-433-7673. $10. Fancy Pants Theater at Studio 246, www.purplerosetheatre.org exhibitions and programs explores 246 N. Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo. June Opera at The Acorn $25. The Acorn the many ways art, design, and Wolverine Will $10 adults, $7 children. 1 - 9. www.fancypantstheatre.webs.com Theater, 107 Generations Dr., Three Oaks. history shapes our understanding and 8 p.m. June 2. 269-756-3879. www. Performance Network Theatre, 120 E. appreciation of the urban environment. The Odd Couple $16-20. Emergent Arts acorntheater.com Huron St., Ann Arbor. 1 p.m. May 26. 734- 101 Monroe Center, Grand Rapids. Theatre Company at The Arthur Miller 663-0681. www.performancenetwork.org June 1 - Aug. 26. 616-831-2904. Theatre in The Walgreen Drama Center, Red $22-41. Performance Network Xanadu Previews May 23-25 ($24-$30). Artmuseumgr.org 1226 Murfin, Ann Arbor. May 24 - 27. 734- Theatre, 120 E. Huron St., Ann Arbor. $30-$39. Meadow Brook Theatre, 2200 N. 985-0875. www.emergentarts.com Through June 3. 734-663-0681. www. Kalamazoo Institute of Arts “A PerformanceNetwork.org Squirrel Road, Rochester. May 23 - June Conversation between Money and Sochi: The Secret Garden $19. Village Players, 17. 248-377-3300. www.mbtheatre.com Video Art” In this exhibit Lee-nam Lee 34660 Woodward Ave., Birmingham. projects the images of a classic painting Through May 27. 248-644-2075. www. from the Western tradition by Claude birminghamvillageplayers.com Monet and an ink painting from the Eastern tradition by Korean artist Sochi. 314 S. Park , Kalamazoo. May 1 - Aug. Editor’s Pick 18. 269-349-7775. KIarts.org Lawrence Street Gallery “Nora The New York Times says it may be the most Mendoza - My Life Through My famous American comedy of the last 50 years. Paintings” Former recipient of the “Michigan Governor’s Arts Award” “The Odd Couple” has stood the test the only one which named her artist of the year in that matters in comedy: It makes people laugh. 1999. 22620 Woodward Ave., Suite A, Hard and repeatedly. Ferndale. May 2 - May 26. 248-544- 0394. Lawrencestreetgallery.com The Emergent Arts Theatre Company Michigan State University Museum presents Neil Simon’s legendary comedy May “POW-erful Design: Adaptation as 24 through 27 at the Arthur Miller Theatre in Inspiration for Technology” Fictional and real technologies are connected The Walgreen Drama Center, 1226 Murfin, on to their biological inspiration by using the North Campus of the University Of Michigan specimens and artifacts from the MSU in Ann Arbor. Museum, the MSU Library’s Special Collection for Comic Books, the A.J Cook Two former family men, Oscar Madison and Felix Unger, become roommates, and Arthropod Collection, and miscellaneous the ensuing train crash of personalities becomes a perfectly damaged vehicle for the pieces from artists, scientists, and designers. West Circle Drive, East comic exploration of everything from suicide to the proper way to prepare a London broil. Lansing. Jan. 1 - June 24. 517-355- Shows are at 8 p.m. Thursday, May 24 and Friday, May 25; 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. 2370. Museum.msu.edu Saturday. May 26; and 2 p.m. Sunday, May 27. Tickets are $20 general admission and The Detroit Institute of Arts “Patti are available at www.emergentarts.com. Smith: Camera Solo” This is the first American museum exhibition to focus on the photography of artist, poet, and performer Patti Smith. 2100 Woodward COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY Ave., Detroit. June 1 - Sep. 2. 313-833- THEATER Sleeping Beauty $10 adult, $5 children. 7900. DIA.org PuppetART at Detroit Puppet Theater, 25 E. ART ‘N’ AROUND The 39 Steps $7-15. Eastern Michigan Ann Arbor Art Center “the PRINT” University of Michigan Museum of University Theatre, atSponberg Theatre, Grand River, Detroit. June 2 - 30. 313-961- 7777. www.puppetart.org The Ann Arbor Art Center’s annual Art “Haroon Mirza” In his work Mirza Quirk Dramatic Arts Building, 103 Quirk, exhibition the Print invites artists to explores and attempts to restore the Ypsilanti. June 1 - 9. 734-487-2282. Sundays at Go Comedy! Go Comedy! showcase experimental print techniques relationships humans have with sound www.emutix.com Improv Theater, 261 E. Nine Mile encompassing those of contemporary that occur through objects, actions, and Rd., Ferndale. 248-327-0575. www. standards as well as those of time forces, relationships largely screened PROFESSIONAL gocomedy.net honored tradition. 117 W. Liberty St., behind the black boxes of electronic Adult Education Storytelling After keyboards, digital music players, TV Taking Care of Mimi $17-20. Detroit Ann Arbor. April 1 - June 10. 734-995- Hours $10. The Acorn Theater, 107 8004. Annarborartcenter.org monitors, and the bits of information Generations Dr., Three Oaks. May 31. 269- Repertory Theatre, 13103 Woodrow they play. University of Michigan 756-3879. www.acorntheater.com Wilson, Detroit. May 31 - June 24. 313- Charles H. Wright Museum of African Museum of Art, 525 S. State St, Ann 868-1347. www.detroitreptheatre.com American History “Great American Arbor. March 4 - July 22. 734-647- Beyond Therapy $18. The Detroit Artists - Part II: The Branches” Exhibition 0524. Umma.umich.edu Ensemble Theatre at Michigan Actors The Addams Family $34.50+. Broadway Grand Rapids at DeVos Performance of new figurative works by artists Studio, 648 E. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. Christopher Batten, Endia Beal, Halima Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts Through June 3. 877-636-3320. www. Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids. “Urbanity” A multidisciplinary series May 22 - 26. 1-800-745-3000. www. Cassells, Alonzo Edwards, Sydney detroitensembletheatre.org James, Gregory Johnson, Richard investigating the complex dynamics broadwaygrandrapids.com of living peaceably and sustainably Ernie $20-25. City Theatre, 2301 Lewis, Mario Moore, Sabrina Nelson The Altruists $15-18. Magenta Giraffe and Senghor Reid. 315 E. Warren, together. 2 West Fulton, Grand Rapids. Woodward Ave., Detroit. Through May 3 - July 5. 616-454-7000. UICA.org July 29. 1-800-745-3000. www. Theatre Company at The Furniture Factory, Detroit. May 3 - Sep. 1. 313-494-5853. olympiaentertainment.com 4126 Third St., Detroit. Through May 26. TheWright.org 313-408-7269. www.Magentagiraffe.org Fridays and Saturdays at Go Comedy! Go Comedy! Improv Theater, 261 E. The Cemetery Club $26-30. Tipping Nine Mile Rd., Ferndale. 248-327-0575. Point Theatre, 361 E. Cady St., Northville. www.gocomedy.net Through June 17. 248-347-0003. www. tippingpointtheatre.com Italian American Reconciliation $10- 15. Epicenter Theatre Group at Varner The Divine Sister $10-15. The Hall Studio Theatre, Oakland University, Ringwald Theatre, 22742 Woodward Rochester. May 31 - June 10. 586-246- Ave., Ferndale. Through June 4. 248- 7546. www.EpicenterTheatreGroup.org 545-5545. www.theringwald.com 36 BTL \ May 24, 2012 \ Rear View www.PrideSource.com Dear Jody support you. If not, you may want to rethink Stop the this relationship. teasing TMI on first date Let me get right to Q: the problem. My In my past I’ve had some negative habits boyfriend, “Jorge,” is a Q: and behaviors and have done a lot of bad very popular, outgoing things. I mean, I have not killed anyone and guy. To put it another haven’t gone to jail, luckily, but I’ve not always way, he comes with a group around him. For the been a nice person. However, I’ve worked hard most part I like the guys in his group and I’m not to change and turn my life around. I’m not jealous of the time and attention that he gives to where I want to be, but I’m on the path and I others. What I am upset about is that there’s a feel good about it. few guys in the group who love to instigate “let’s The problem I have is letting dates know pick on Jorge’s boyfriend.” about my past. I want to be honest about what I love Jorge very much. We’ve been I’ve done and who I was. The difficulty I have together for a year and a half. We’re thinking now is that when I tell guys about my past, I don’t about a commitment ceremony in the fall. get another date. I don’t get it. I guess honesty Currently we live apart but are planning to find is not what is wanted. But I’m proud of myself. a place together. I tell you this because I want I came from a really bad background and I’ve you to understand how serious we both are about fought my way out of it and turned myself into building a life together. a decent person. Shouldn’t people be happy for I don’t think that I’m an overly sensitive me and appreciate where I’ve come from and person; however, Jorge is telling me that I am. how I’ve changed? I’m 28 years old and no one has ever said that I It seems that I should just be dishonest and was an oversensitive person. Then again, I’ve not come up with some bogus portrayal of my life been teased that much, either, though I have been so people will like me. But in that case, how teased on occasions and I wasn’t upset about it. would a guy feel when he’s invested in me, then So, do you think I should just turn the finds out who I was. My guess is he’d drop me other cheek and pretend that I’m OK with like a hot potato. what’s going on and assume that I’m just being So, what should I do here? “oversensitive”? Truth and Consequences Tired of Turning the Other Cheek Take it gradually. You are overwhelming A: your dates with too much information too First, I have to say that you haven’t really fast. It’s like you are dumping your life out on the A:given me anything to go on regarding table and daring them to get involved with you. what you are being teased about and how the Even if you didn’t have a negative past life, teasing is coming down on you. it is never a good idea to let it all out on a first Having said that, my advice is to ask date. In order to let people get to know who you yourself the question: Does the teasing feel mean are today, you need to go easy on who you were spirited and/or degrading? in the past; otherwise, all they’ll see is the person If not, maybe you should let it go. who was, not the person who is. However, if the answer to this is yes, then you need to respect yourself by confronting Jody Valley spent 12 years as a clinical social those who are doing the teasing. But before worker. She worked with the LGBT community both you do that, it is important that you talk to as a counselor and a workshop leader in the areas Jorge about this again, letting him know how of coming out, self-esteem and relationship issues. it feels to you. Being in love – amongst other things – means being willing to listen to the The “Dear Jody” column appears weekly. Reach Jody other person and stand by him. This will be an at [email protected] or via Facebook important conversation between you and Jorge, (search: Dear Jody Valley). Letters may be edited and hopefully he will listen, understand and for clarity and length.

Visit our website! http://www.pridesource.com Add our fan page! Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” Follow us! @YourBTL

38 BTL \ May 24, 2012 \ Rear View www.PrideSource.com Across 55 Carnaval locale 27 NG: Act guilty, perhaps 56 Peter the Great, and more 28 Gay porn director Rainier Circular Thinking 1 Greek triangle 60 NG: Some telescopes 29 NG: He loved Roxane 6 NG: Hotel in “Bobby” 64 Master’s demand for oral sex 30 “At Swim, Two Boys” writer Jamie 16 Farewell to fifty million Frenchmen 65 NG: “La Dolce Vita” actress 31 Rubber stamp 17 Problem for a fluffer? 66 Tickle pink 32 NG: Business card no. 18 NG: Center 67 Rural holdings 33 Endora portrayer 19 Cries over spilt milk, so to speak 68 Hardtop 35 What fruits do while preparing to get 20 NG: Trattoria topping plucked 21 Just out 36 BenGay target 22 The whole shebang Down 39 Giant ball-handler Manning 23 Went down, on the beach 1 Showing excitement 40 NG: Panhandler’s confession? 25 NG: Part of RSVP 2 NG: Falco of “Nurse Jackie” 41 Will subjects 26 NG: Writer’s deg. 3 Jar tops 46 Big pieces of meat 29 NG: Reef buildup 4 It takes testees to do his job 47 NG: Alley prowler 31 NG: Brainiac 5 NG: Austrian expressway 49 NG: Used car transaction 33 NG: “Atlas Shrugged” author Rand 6 How two hearts may beat 52 “Will & Grace” first did this in 1998 34 NG: Newsman Greeley 7 NG: Used a U-Haul 37 They may be split 53 Goes down in defeat 8 NG: Suds 54 Beat the skins 38 Locale of the event that appears in 9 NG: Atmospheric prefix the circles 55 Caesar’s city 10 NG: Muscle problem 42 Get in the sack 57 NG: Slightly 11 South Beach souvenirs 43 NG: Lisa’s “Friends” role 58 ___ Mae Brown 12 NG: Asian inland sea 44 “Beauty and the Beast” film frame 59 NG: Tommy’s gun 13 “The Times of Harvey Milk,” for short 45 NG: Service volunteer 60 NG: British flyers 14 NG: Morsel for a mare 48 NG: Plumed bird 61 Old Spanish queen 15 ACLU concerns 50 Tchaikovsky’s fifth 62 NG: Pro 24 Pleasure orally 51 Big load 63 Fashion accessory for a butch lesbian 25 NG: Holey utensil 52 Uninvited pool guests? 26 One ready to shoot off a gun, e.g. Solution on pg 40 54 NG: Rep. foe www.PrideSource.com Rear View / May 24, 2012 / BTL 39

Horoscopes Take responsibility, Pisces!

BY JACK FERTIG

Mercury conjoining Jupiter in Taurus offers new practical ideas. Then he enters Gemini stirring up new ideas to build on those foundations. Sun and Mercury squaring Neptune can create confusion or inspiration. Conversation and logic will keep things clear.

ARIES (March 20 – April 19): competitive, make it the two of New information, important as you against the world. it is, points to a more important SCORPIO (October 23 – larger picture. Don’t get too hung November 21): Arguments up on details. Taking the broad at work could get worse over view is worth the effort. Keeping cool at work is a challenge too, the coming months. Your real but could get you a raise. brilliance will show when you challenge your own ideas. Think TAURUS (April 20 – May hard about where you want to be 20): Even with good reason to in two years and how you need feel sure of yourself, cockiness to adapt to get there. can stir up arguments with your partner. Is financial stress driving SAGITTARIUS (November your competitiveness or the 22 – December 20): Devotion to other way around? Don’t jones your partner could come across on keeping up with the Joneses! as bossiness. Devote some attention to yourself! If you’re GEMINI (May 21- June 20): single, speed dating could prove Instincts to keep quiet are good, amusing. Even if you don’t find but temporary. When you get the The One you could meet lots of urge to talk, first employ your interesting folks. partner as an editor. Being mature and responsible, especially with CAPRICORN (December 21 information, is not only effective, – January 19): Connections but could prove to be fun. you’ve been building with colleagues need repair. That will CANCER (June 21- July take time. A sense that they’re not 22): A breakthrough in old reliable is probably more about memories is just the beginning miscommunications than intent. of illumination. Work with that Talking with them is part of the information and get some real solution, but first look inside insight. Balance your social yourself for keys to the problem. activities with time alone to charge your batteries. If you AQUARIUS (January 20 – wear out so will your welcome. February 18): Anxieties can be a great source of creative LEO (July 23 – August 22): expression. The next few years Strictly speaking friendship is will be difficult but even in your a benefit. You and a pal may pessimism a clear idea of the have some confusion about what dangers ahead can offer a clue benefits are included. Awkward? to making the most of it. For a bit. True friendship endures much worse. Dreams PISCES (February 19 – March of future accomplishments are 19): Nestling into cozy domestic nice. Doing it now is better. fantasies will only create trouble and confusion. Express your VIRGO (August 23 – September ideals and your dreams with 22): Promoting your own ideas can take you far. Listening to new your family or roomies, clear ones can help you get further. The up misconceptions, and take next few weeks are excellent for responsibility for creating a cozy work, but don’t neglect issues at domestic reality. home. Invite the boss home (or Jack Fertig is in New Orleans somewhere) for dinner. this week at the United LIBRA (September 23 – Astrology Conference, then on to October 22): Nobody is right Houston. Available for personal all the time; admitting when consultations, he can be reached you’re wrong makes you right more often. Staying one step through his website at www. ahead of your partner is not starjack.com, and by email at acting as a team. If you must be [email protected]. 40 BTL \ May 24, 2012 \ Rear View www.PrideSource.com Classifieds 101-ANNOUNCEMNTS LGBT AA MEETINGS

Ann Arbor-Friday 7:30 pm, St. Andrews Episcopal Church Gay AA, 306 N. Division St. Closed/Discussion. To place a classified ad with us, Bloomfield Hills- Thursday visit PRIDESOURCE.COM/classifieds 7:00 pm ,Sobriety in The Hills Gay AA, Kirk in The Hills Church, or call us at 888.615.7003 ext. 22 1340 W. Long Lake Rd. Closed/ Discussion. 306 EMPLOYMENT - 1102 EROTICA - Detroit-Tuesday / Friday BUSINESS MASSAGE 8:00 pm, Downtown Gay AA, Fort Street Presbyterian Church, 631 West Fort St. Closed/ Discussion (Open 1st Friday of Business Opportunities Mind, Body and Soul every month). Earn extra money by selling Relaxing Erotic Massage for home services. Call 248- Men. Jay 248-688-6361 Farmington Hills- 796-1748 Monday 1109 EROTICA - 8:00 pm, Suburban West Gay 410 PROF. SERVICES ADULT PRODUCTS AA, Universalist Unitarian Church, 25301 Halstead - GENERAL (Between 10 & 11 Mile Roads) Closed / Discussion. Sexy Black Women RON & KEN’S GARAGE For free samples of the hottest Ferndale-Monday / Licensed Master Mechanics amateur female talent of the Wednesday / Friday LAWNMOWER/SNOW Mid-West and/ or interested attractive females (18+). Call 11:30 a.m., Brown Baggers Gay BLOWER SALES AND SERVICE. I.G.P. now at 313-289-2008. AA, Affirmations, 290 West 9 248-477-2922 FARMINGTON Mile Rd. Closed/Discussion. HILLS. Ferndale-Wednesday 428 PROF. SERVICES 8 p.m., Diversity Wednesday Gay AA, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, - MASSAGE 540 W. Lewiston @ Livernois. Closed/Discussion. Ferndale-Saturday GROUP MASSAGE - For Gay and Bisexual 1 p.m. Brown Baggers Gay AA, Men. Learn some massage Affirmations, 290 West 9 Mile Rd. techniques and meet others in Closed/Discussion. a safe and caring environment. 8 p.m. Go After Your Sobriety Gay Tuesdays and Saturdays at AA, Drayton Ave Presbyterian 8 p.m. Thursdays at 2 p.m. Church, 2441 Pinecrest. Closed/ $10 per session. 209 West Discussion. Kingsley in downtown Ann Arbor. (734) 662-6282 or email Livonia-Friday [email protected]. http:// www.trymassage.com 8 p.m., West Side Story’s Gay AA, Providence Medical Center, 7 Mile & Newburgh. Closed/ Discussion. Pontiac-Tuesday / Thursday / Sunday 8 p.m., Pontiac Gay AA, Shrine of St. Joseph, 400 West South Blvd. Closed/Discussion. Solution to puzzle from page 38 PUZZLE SOLUTION Warren-Monday 7:30 p.m., Eastside Serenity Gay AA, Faith-Trinity United Church of Christ, 12221 Martin Rd. East of Hoover. Closed/Discussion.

To place a classified ad with us, visit PRIDESOURCE.COM/ classifieds or call us at 888.615.7003x22 www.PrideSource.com Rear View / May 24, 2012 / BTL 41 42 BTL \ May 24, 2012 \ Rear View www.PrideSource.com Advertiser Index Shop PrideSource / BTL advertisers

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