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Justin and Mila talk about being allies Our Friends ... PRIDESOURCE.COM JULY 21, 2011 | VOL. 1929 | FREE 2 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 7.21.2011

9 11 25

11 | Parting Glances Cover story Swami, swami, how I love ya! 25 | Our Friends... Timberlake and Kunis talk being allies, 11 | Letter: Donations don’t make rodeo getting naked and breaking gay stereotypes. OK Photo: Screen Gems 12 | BTL Editorial We must take back “family” News 12 | The Gay Moralist 7 | Speak Out Gay man in a jury box Why Republican redistricting means trouble for us 14 | Creep of the Week 9 | Youth protest homelessness Marcus Bachmann 9 | Multicultural Advisory report results Life coming later this year 26 | Shocantelle be-weaves in you 11 | Hotter Than July kicks off with art exhibit Cooter County hairdresser comes to Detroit with combs, style tips 13 | Bachmann clinic questioned over ‘ex-gay’ therapy sessions 29 | Cool Cities: Ferndale Girls: Thank you for being so funny! 13 | LGBT violence on the rise 31 | Hear Me Out 13 | Push begins to overturn teaching gay Dolly goes jolly on “Better Day” history in CA

14 | parent loses bid for shared 33 | Curtain Calls Reviews of “Much Ado About Nothing,” “And custody The Creek Don’t Rise” 14 | Active-duty military march in San Diego Pride 34 | Happenings Featured: Sia on July 23 at Saint Andrew’s in Detroit 16 | Gay parent case goes to US Rear View

Family Focus 36 | Horoscopes

19 | Fighting for family 37 | Dear Jody

22 | Same-sex in Michigan: 38 | Puzzle Obstacles and options 39 | Classifieds Opinions 41 | Cocktail Chatter

10 | S/he said 42 | Deep Inside Hollywood History and pop culture

10 | Heard on Facebook What do you think of Lady Gaga and her activism in the gay community?

4 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 Online

Vol. 1929 • Issue 722 @ July 21, 2011

Publishers Susan Horowitz Online exclusives Jan Stevenson

Editorial

Editor in Chief Susan Horowitz [email protected]

News Editor Tara Cavanaugh [email protected]

Entertainment Editor Chris Azzopardi [email protected] The OutField: Gay softball: It’s not just for gays anymore Arts & Theater Editor Donald V. Calamia, National and International news [email protected] Calendar Editor Benjamin Jenkins WEB WINS [email protected] “Friends with Benefits” prize packs – mini-poster, Creative silicone bracelet and soundrack – on Facebook Art Director David Ano, [email protected]

Webmaster & MIS Director Keep tabs on ... Kevin Bryant, [email protected] Hotter Than July kicks off Wednesday, July 27! Contributing Writers plus DAILY BREAKING NEWS Charles Alexander, D.A. Blackburn, Michelle E. Brown, Zach Childree, John Corvino, Jack Fertig, Lisa Keen, Jim Larkin, Anthony Paull, Andrea Poteet, Crystal Proxmire, Bob Roehr, Calendar connection Hannah Schwab, Gregg Shapiro, Jody Valley, D’Anne Witkowski, Rex Wockner, Dan Woog

Cartoonists Paul Berg, Dave Brousseau, Joan Hilty

Contributing Photographers Andrew Potter Emily Locklear

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Sales Representatives Search hundreds of events and Ed Bohach, [email protected] add your own Ann Cox, [email protected] Greg Flood, [email protected]

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6 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 Speak Out

By Eric Rader Why Republican redistricting means trouble for us

cross the country this year, declared that it would no longer defend state legislatures are engaged In Michigan, the in court. Republicans have in the process of congressional no desire to pass any legislation that would redistricting.A Every ten years, following the Republican Party has extend equal rights to the LGBT community. constitution-mandated federal census, most There may not be much that can be done states have to create new district boundaries free rein to decide to prevent the Republican redistricting plan in for U.S. House members to account for the Michigan from becoming law, because Gov. population changes that occurred during what our districts will Snyder supports the legislature’s decision. the previous decade. The Constitution Assuming the plan is approved, some established the House of Representatives look like through 2022. groups may go to court to ask the judiciary as the institution of government closest to overturn these unfair and unrepresentative to the people, with representation in the districts. It appears likely, however, that chamber based on the population of the strengthens Republicans around the state. Michigan’s Republican-dominated Supreme state. At one time, many southern states Because districts must be contiguous, the Court would sustain these districts. Therefore, used the redistricting process as a way to GOP majority had to find creative ways to LGBT political participation in next year’s disenfranchise African-American voters. In reduce the political power of Democrats in elections for Congress is critical. While the early 1960s, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled various places. Perhaps the most egregious right-wing interests may win the redistricting that malapportionment was unconstitutional, example of political gerrymandering in the battle, the ultimate deciders of actual elections and established the principle that one person plan approved by the legislature is Michigan are the voters. should equal one vote. District 14, currently represented by veteran No matter what the districts look like While voting equality is supposed to legislator John Conyers, D-Detroit, where next year, we all have an interest in supporting guide states as they create new districts, the new lines snake their way from Detroit people who will advance equal rights in the the reality is that the redistricting process is over to Farmington, then up to Pontiac. years ahead. Though Republicans controlled often very politically biased. Though some This district makes no geographic sense, the last redistricting process in Michigan in states have created nonpartisan commissions and completely violates the principle that a 2001, Democrats were still able to make to redraw their boundaries, most states, member of Congress should be as close as substantial gains in the 2006 elections, with including Michigan, assign this task to possible to the people he or she represents. much of their support coming from the committees in the state legislature. After Elsewhere in our region, the GOP plan LGBT community. Progressives can win the plan is approved the legislature, the puts LGBT-equality representatives Sander in gerrymandered districts, but only if our governor decides whether to approve or Levin, D-Royal Oak, and Gary Peters, community stays active in the upcoming reject the redistricting plan for the state. D-Bloomfield Hills, in the same district, campaign. We need to remind people how Thus, whichever political party controls the effectively ending the congressional career radical the Republican leadership of the levers of power in a state also has a big say of one of these dedicated public servants. U.S. House is today, and how important it in what the partisan makeup of the districts In recent years, the U.S. House has is to vote. When we stay home, we lose, and will be for the next ten years. In Michigan, seen a lot of legislative activity around there’s simply too much at stake in the 2012 this means that the Republican Party, which LGBT issues. When the Democrats held elections to let that happen. controls both houses of the legislature and the majority in the House from 2007-2011, the governor’s office, has free rein to decide they passed hate crimes legislation and Contact Gov. Snyder — ask him what our districts will look like through 2022. repealed the military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t to re-consider his support for the Republican redistricting plan: Michigan’s overall population declined from Tell” policy. Democrats in the House 2000-2010, meaning that we are losing one of also attempted to pass the Employment [email protected] our 15 districts. This means that at least one Nondiscrimination Act and repeal the 517-373-3400 of Michigan’s current U.S. representatives “Defense of Marriage Act,” though GOP Proposed Michigan legislative will lose his or her seat in Congress next year. obstructionism prevented further action districts (U.S. House and Michigan Unfortunately, the Republican on these bills. Once the Republicans House and Senate): majorities in the Michigan Legislature have gained control of the House in 2011, they http://download.gannett.edgesuite.net/ approved a redistricting plan that divides committed themselves to legally defending detnews/2011/pdf/redistrictmap.pdf Democrats in the metro Detroit region, and DOMA, after the Obama administration

Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 7 News michigan CARES appoints new Youth protest homelessness executive director Thousands in Detroit homeless due to sexuality, HIV/AIDS KALAMAZOO– Community AIDS Resource and Education Services, a southwest Michigan organization that seeks to minimize By Zach Childree the effects of HIV/AIDS on the community, appointed a longtime staffer as its new DETROIT– Last Friday, members of executive director. the Campaign to End AIDS gathered outside David Feaster most recently served as Detroit City Hall to draw attention to the plight CARES’ director of client services, and was of homeless youth. a one-time member of the board of directors Alfredo Smith, a spokesman for the before joining the organization as a medical case group, said dealing with homelessness manager in 2001. among LGBT youth plays a big role in HIV “We are thrilled to have someone of David’s prevention. “Youth are the future of the city,” caliber poised to lead CARES,” Board President he said. “Without housing, youth are more Richard Piet said. “Budgets, stigma and disease likely to drop out of school and more likely spread being what they are, our work is cut out to be involved in risky behavior that can lead for us – and David is a leader ready to help to new HIV infections.” CARES advance.” Smith said too often, young people are CARES serves clients in 11 southwest kicked out of home after they come out. “A Michigan counties with guidance on lot of homeless youth go into prostitution and maintaining healthy lives while living HIV- drug trafficking,” Smith said. “And if they need positive. The organization also employs some place to live, they aren’t going to care if various targeted education programs to help their ‘john’ tells them they don’t have to wear minimize its spread. a condom.” CARES was established 26 years ago in In Detroit, Smith said, there are more than Kalamazoo. More information is available at 18,000 homeless people. More than half of the www.caresswm.org. youth who are homeless are also LGBT. One of the demonstrators, Autumn Mays, is familiar with the struggles LGBT youth face. Mays is a woman and she’s Equality Michigan facing eviction. She worried that she may end up back at a homeless shelter soon. She held up a sign Friday and chanted “No Housing? announces annual No Future!” Mays said she hoped the community would dinner come together to fight for more shelters for Youth from the Campaign to End AIDS protest in front of the Spirit of Detroit to bring attention to homelessness in the city and to encourage HIV prevention and housing programs. BTL photo: Zach Childree. homeless youth. “I would like increased funding DEARBORN– Equality Michigan will and more stability in how it’s spent,” Mays said. hold its State Equality Dinner, its biggest annual working to get where she was.” “We also would like to see rehabilitation of city event, Oct. 22 at 6 p.m. at The Henry. The dinner Montgomery said these kinds of attitudes “We need more people buildings for homeless shelters.” highlights advocacy work happening around are reflective of the policies surrounding funding As the demonstrators chanted and passed the state, connects leaders in the movement for homeless programs. to realize that these out flyers and t-shirts, people hurried past on for equality and celebrate achievements in Smith said these kinds of attitudes come their way to and from work. Some drivers Michigan’s LGBT community. Ticket prices from ignorance, but the demonstration could homeless youth are part honked their horns as a show of support. range from $50-$250. To learn more, check out help educate people about the plight of homeless George Montgomery, the chairperson the event’s Facebook page by searching for “State youth in the city. of the future of our city.” for the Campaign to End AIDS LGBTQQI Equality Dinner.” Youth Group, said not all of the responses “What I’m hoping is that the people that were supportive. walk by actually become part of the movement,” “One lady told me that homeless youth Smith said. “We need more people to realize –Alfredo Smith, spokesman are the scum of the earth and deserve to die,” that these homeless youth are part of the future for Campaign to End AIDS for Books Montgomery said. “She said because they aren’t of our city.” picks summer reads

FERNDALE– The quickly growing Queer for Books Book Club has announced their book Multicultural Advisory report selections for July and August. On Saturday, July 23, the group will discuss “Band Fags!” by Frank Anthony Polito. The book follows Jack, a boy discovering the complicated nature results coming later this year of sexuality, as he grows up in 1980s Hazel Park, Mich. There will also be a special door prize for those who attend the discussion. On FERNDALE– In its final year of targeting key LGBT audiences, including youth, centers across the country.” Aug. 27, Queer for Books will discuss “Go Tell work, Affirmations’ Multicultural Advisory African Americans, the Latino/a community, The Multicultural Advisory Committee It On The Mountain” by James Baldwin. The Committee announced it expects to release a full middle eastern Americans and the transgender is funded by the Arcus Foundation. semi-autobiographical novel examines the role report by the end of 2011. Throughout June and community. All in all, 462 people participated in Affirmations is Metro Detroit’s community of the Christian Church in the lives of African- July, three teams are meeting independently to surveys and 60 participated in the focus groups. center for LGBT people and their allies. Americans as well as racism in pre-civil rights create a set of best practices for racial diversity “We couldn’t do our job without the Open since 1989 and located in the Detroit era America. and inclusion related to board, personnel and incredible community participation on this suburb of Ferndale, Affirmations provides a Those interested in attending the book club programs at the Ferndale nonprofit organization. project,” said Michelle Walters, longtime LGBT welcoming space where people of all cultures, can request copies of the book at the Ferndale Their work is based on data collected throughout community activist and founding member of the sexual orientations, gender identities and Public Library’s reference desk or from the 2010 that included a series of surveys targeting MAC. “We expect the results of our work to not expressions can find support and unconditional library’s online catalog at http://www.ferndale. staff, board, volunteers and community members only benefit Affirmations and Metro Detroit’s acceptance. For more information, visit www. lib.mi.us/. and was supplemented by focus groups LGBT community, but also LGBT community GoAffirmations.org.

8 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 9 News Michigan Parting Glances compiled By HOWARD Then and Now Hotter Than July kicks off with art exhibit What do you think By Charles Alexander Liberal Arts Gallery hosts, makes exhibit ‘a little more upscale’ of Lady Gaga and her History and pop culture Swami, swami, how I love ya! By Zach Childree DETROIT– On July 27, the Detroit activism in the gay “There are many ways to kill people t’s always a transcendental pleasure to report about uplifting Black Pride Society will kick off its and one of the ways is to pretend that talks, lectures, sermons, 90-minute Power Point presentations I’m frequently asked to cover because, somewhat curiously, annual Hotter Than July celebration with community? they never existed at all. Remove all the opening of an art exhibit. The exhibit, Ino one else wants to at BTL. traces of their journey and hope no As a writer for an alternative weekly of such spiritual high produced in collaboration with the Poor one discovers their story. Often the standing – consider uplifting examples “Dear Jody” and “Creep of Man’s Art Collective, is called “Unity in Diversity, Many Backgrounds, Different issue of self-esteem among young the Week” – I feel it’s almost a patriotic duty to keep my dedicated PG readers informed. Mediums, One Vision” and is hosted by LGBT citizens stems from the fact that I don’t. I twenty-one gun salute all six of you! the Liberal Arts Gallery in Detroit. The art exhibit opening has been part of –Kerri Covey they think our common denominator I recently had – to use an expression in currency among David Mixner is just sexually based. They have no zealous segments of our world’s beleaguered populace – a truly the Hotter Than July celebration for 6 years, according to Black Pride Society President idea of their noble, proud and heroic blessed day. (Please don’t misunderstand: a sexual encounter is not herewith implied. Although I frequently do pray for same. Kimberly Jones. Jones said she is excited traditions and actions of their pioneers. LGBT history is Daily, I might add.) about the event and how much it has grown, including garnering sponsorship from I think it’s great when someone uses their filled with dramatic courage, dignity and determination and I was in Ann Arbor. (I often go there on pilgrimage because innovative and extraordinary leaders. If you feel like you have the climate of youthful, carefree beauty and symmetry – the passing Barefoot Wines. “In the past, Hotter Than spotlight to spotlight causes other than July has never really had a liquor sponsor,” come out of nothing then you might feel you are nothing. If show of freshmen, sophs, seniors parading in breathtaking summer themselves. attire – is spiritually invigorating, so thought-provoking for one Jones said. “But Barefoot Wines has stepped you think only sex is the basis of our journey then you will up and was really open to participating in a –Lisa Ross my age. And frustrating, I’ll also readily admit.) miss the remarkable stories that define this community as one I had a New Age – satori, nirvana, Zen, sound-of-one-hand- lot of the Hotter Than July events.” of heroes, heroines and a very proud people.” clapping – encounter with a MtFB (male to to bisexual). A This year, the exhibit moves from the self-styled “gururess” by the name of Mary Martin Muktananda. host hotel, where it is usually presented, –David Mixner, political strategist, and LGBT rights She was sitting feeding a dozen multi-plumed pigeons in an to the Liberal Arts Gallery. “We wanted to activist, in his blog titled “Why LGBT History off the main-drag park, no pun intended. Our spiritual gaydar open Hotter Than July with an art show, to She is bisexual and has every right (even if she Is Important,” davidmixner.com, July 15. instantly clicked. give people the opportunity to be a little “Welcome, Spiritual Traveler on Life’s Rainbow journey,” more upscale,” Jones said. “This year “Self Aware,” a 30-inch by 30-inch work of Japanese paper on wood by Geno Harris, will be featured weren’t one of us) to be a force in our fight. I because we’ve moved it, it gives us the at the art exhibit that kicks off Hotter Than July Wednesday, July 27. Harris glued colored tissue Michael Irvin she greets me, as pigeons take flight, circle her head in halo effect, paper onto the wood and covered it with varnish. Photo supplied by Geno Harris. don’t get why people have such a problem with and vanish in the twinkling of a mascara’d eye. “Being gay’s not a opportunity to show the community the art for the entire week of Hotter Than July.” her. “I’m not gay, but I was afraid to even let anyone choice,” she beams a devastating Shinto, ancestor-worship smile experience,” Harris said. The artists who my way. “Tolerating pigeons is. I hope you know the difference.” The exhibit will feature work from –Karen Hale have the thought. I can only imagine the agony – local artists who use various media “It came from a need are featured in this year’s exhibit are Harris Acrobatic pigeons annoy me; but I know if I stick around for and Mychal Noir, who are co-founders being a prisoner in your own mind – for someone simulated pearls of wisdom I may be enlightened or entertained. for their art, including found wood, who wants to come out. If I’m not gay and I am acrylic paints, wood carvings, ink and to represent our of the Poor Man’s Art Collective, as well “Do you come here often?” I ask, using a conversational ploy that’s as Reggie Singleton, Bianca Henderson, afraid to mention it, I can only imagine what an worked thousands of times in sequestered city parks not unlike photography. Poor Man’s Art Collective “Older gays have been the object co-founder Geno Harris said the exhibit is community. And to Natalie Bandele and Bilal. I love the fact that she calls out cowardly athlete must be going through if he is gay.” the one I happened to find myself in. “I don’t think we’ve ever turned of negative stereotyping both from “I make a practice of being here noon to five, Mondays a great way to showcase the work of local politicians who are supposedly on “our” side. artists, both gay and straight. showcase the ability of anyone’s art down,” Jones said. “It’s –Michael Irvin, former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver and society at large and within the gay through TGIFs. (Thank-Guru-It’s-Fridays!) And Saturdays and community oriented and community Sundays at the crowded, clamoring market I sell patchouli incense “It came from a need to represent –Jason Vorva NFL Hall of Famer, in an article titled “Michael Irvin: The community. The image of the lonely based, so when we put a call out, we are and semi-chaste devotional pictures of bilocating saints saving our community,” Harris said. “And to both communities (gay older man lusting after younger men delighted to have new artists as part of Playmaker Preaches,” about his gay brother and explains photogenic rock stars and holy-named divas. showcase the ability of both communities is perpetuated by the right wing in an (gay and straight) coming together to and straight) coming the exhibit.” why he’s on a pro-gay mission from God, out.com, July 6. “I also provide stimulating hugs, acupuncture tune-up tummy Jones said she is looking forward to attempt to frighten and shame us into rubs, and memorable, OM-laced mantras for materialistic dollar show what Detroit has to offer by way of creative talent.” together to show what the event and hopes it will be a great start abandoning our . donations. I sense you’re into the Arts. Do you frequent dance to the Hotter Than July festivities. “I want Rik Isensee establishments for one-on-one retinal clarification? Are your Both Harris and Jones agree that the Within the gay community the there to be excitement and enthusiasm chakras atuned with your aesthetic libido? Lap dancing does exhibit is a great way to show off the work Detroit has to offer.” “The dynamic between the muggle stereotype of the ‘bitter old queen’ of new artists that might not get shown about Hotter Than July,” Jones said. “A wonders for living fully in the present, if sometimes it comes at lot is happening and I’m really excited (non-magical) world and the divides generations – older men are afraid of being seen as the expense of living in the past.” otherwise. “It fosters the talents of new and emerging artists who might not know about that.” wizarding world is strikingly similar ‘chicken hawks,’ and younger men are wary of being sexually “Actually I dabble. I draw intricate, convoluted designs and –Geno Harris, co-founder of The reception is from 7 p.m. until 11 write intricate, convoluted sentences for intricately convoluted how to get their works shown or who have to that of the straight and objectified. This negative stereotype also reinforces the belief otherwise been denied the opportunity p.m. at The Liberal Arts Gallery at 3361 readers. I’m probably an Old Soul. By default, not by choice. If Poor Man’s Art Collective Gratiot Avenue in Detroit. gay worlds. They exist side by side, that gay relationships are based solely on sexual attraction you know what I mean?” because of a lack of education, awards or but the wizards must keep their and that once our youth begins to fade, we are unlikely to “Oh, yes! A senior citizen. Here’s my advice for everyone identities and powers secret for have any real or lasting relationships.” over 35, that traditional Dark Night of the Soul. ‘Life gives us fear of frightening the muggles. religions. Thank heaven we can choose our sins.’ ‘Society gives –Rik Isensee, in his book “Are You Ready? The Gay Man’s us restrictions. It’s up to us to enjoy our reservations.’ (Knowing LETTER: Donations don’t make gay rodeo OK Harry Potter The only real-life muggles who’ve Guide to Thriving at Midlife,” about the first generation a good gay head waiter helps.) I thank Ms. Brindle for her July 14 wildly to rid themselves the pain of the and the Deathly been frightened are the groups of of openly to hit middle age, worldcat.org. “Yes! I suspect you’ve had many interesting past lifetimes. letter (“Gay rodeo promotes animal abuse, bucking strap that is tightened around Hallows MIGRA says they Evangelical Christians who’ve been Been between a rock and a hard place often. Been at sixes or sevens not community”) about animal cruelty at the sensitive part of their abdomens.

calling for boycotts and bans on the in your cosmic countdown. Had a time of it making both ends meet. RodeoFest 2011, put on by the Michigan I highly doubt this is enjoyable to the donate money to Truth is – speaking reincarnation wise – that sometimes we’re at International Gay Rodeo Association. This animals. Harry Potter books and films for years, claiming that they top, sometimes we’re at bottom. The difference between the two association claims to have humane rules MIGRA says they donate money to charity as if that promote magic, evil and devil worship. This may be the most is often not hard to measure.” in place so that makes everything OK. charity as if that somehow overrides the spectacularly unsuccessful boycott in history; the Potter “Here’s a dollar for advice. Make it succinct,” I request. So, if I am being gay bashed sometime, suffering they caused to get the money. Comments may be edited for grammar and length. somehow overrides books have sold more than 400 million copies worldwide; “Quite so,” oooms Swami Mary Martin Muktananda, as cooing I’ll keep in mind it is acceptable as long As the famous quote goes, “None are pigeons suddenly reappear out of nowhere. “Save brain energy. the films have grossed more than $6 billion.” as the bashers have humane rules in place. free until all are free.” We do not want our the suffering they Don’t think. Turn the other cheek before you reluctantly go amiss Photos of MIGRA’s rodeos on their community to be oppressed. Yet, many in our Join the conversation ... –Adam Sandel, playwright and screenwriter, in or just plain peter out. Change underwear daily from here on in.” website show a bull being grabbed by community still oppress others. We cannot caused to get the Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” his blog posting titled “We’ll Miss You Harry!” his horns and his head pushed to the expect to be treated equally until we treat about the special resonance LGBT fans have for [email protected] Have a rainbow day! ground, a bull being roped by the head others – regardless of species – equally too. money. Harry Potter, http://dot429.com, July 15. as two men pull on the rope yanking the William McMullin poor bull’s head back, and bulls bucking Lansing, Mich. 10 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 11 Opinions Publishers: Jan Stevenson & Susan Horowitz News National Bachmann clinic questioned LGBT violence The Gay Moralist on the rise over ‘ex-gay’ therapy sessions Transgender people, BY JOHN CORVINO Activist publicizes undercover video of Christian clinic minorities vulnerable By Zach Childree Gay man in the jury box By Patrick Condon and Brian Bakst the clinic’s patients. The clinic honors and The male counselor “said if I pray to God respects all people for whatever issue they that I no longer be gay, and study the Bible, that re you married?” mention it. Last year was the second highest year on LAKE ELMO, Minn. (AP)- A gay come in for and if there is a conflict, they refer through continued therapy God could perform a It seems like a simple question. But Actually, to be precise, the judge didn’t record for murders of LGBT and HIV-affected activist’s undercover video is drawing unwanted elsewhere,” said a written statement from miracle and I could become straight,” Ramirez, on closer glance, much depends ask about “spouses.” He asked men “What does communities, according to a report released July Stewart. now 24, said. Ramirez said after two sessions, “Aon context. your wife do?” and women “What does your attention to a counseling clinic co-owned by 12 by the National Coalition Of Anti-Violence Marcus Bachmann has a doctorate in In this case, the context was jury duty. husband do?” As I fidgeted in my chair, I noticed GOP presidential hopeful Michele Bachmann, he told his the therapy was pointless Programs. The study focused on 17 anti violence I was Candidate 13, sitting in the box during that its placement at the platform’s edge made with footage apparently showing a counselor clinical psychology, and the clinic’s website and she told him he could stop going. He said programs in 15 states, including Michigan. “voir dire,” the process wherein the judge and it impossible for me to plant my feet squarely offering to help the activist overcome his advertises a wide range of counseling from he never met Marcus Bachmann. Hate violence incident data provided to attorneys ask questions in order to weed out on the floor – a fact that only compounded my homosexual urges. Ramirez said he contacted Truth Wins NCAVP in 2010 showed a 13 percent increase potential juror bias. discomfort. Both Bachmann and her husband Marcus, Out after a friend saw an item the group posted in reports of violence since 2009. “You know, you can get out of jury duty by “Are you married?” who runs the clinic, refused to answer questions The clinic has on its blog seeking former patients from the “Perhaps more disturbingly, it shows a very telling them you’re gay,” a friend had told me The judge had finally reached me. “I have a about the video from Truth Wins Out, a gay Bachmann clinic. clear increase in the reports of the severity of the day before. “Just say that because you’re not domestic partner,” I responded firmly. advocacy group that has worked to discredit collected at least Politically, the clinic has been useful to physical violence used during the hate motivated allowed to marry, you have no faith in the legal He asked another, unrelated question, and so-called “ex-gay therapy.” Bachmann. She routinely cites it in stump incidents,” said Lisa Gilmore, Director of Education system and can’t promise an impartial verdict.” for a moment I thought the spousal issue had In the video, a counselor says that sessions $137,000 from Medicaid- speeches as evidence she understands the and Victim Advocacy for the Center on Halstead in But I don’t want to be excused from passed. Then, “Oh – and what does your partner could help build up the patient’s desire for women. challenges face by entrepreneurs and small Chicago at a press conference on Tuesday. jury duty. I consider it my civic duty. And it do?” “I believe twice over the course of the first employers. And during her initial run for The study reported 27 hate-motivated doesn’t interfere much with my job (philosophy “He’s an attorney,” I responded, making session he made reference to his belief that we backed programs. Congress, Bachmann’s campaign leased murders in 2010, which is an increase from 22 We must take back ‘family’ professor), because I defer my summons sure to articulate clearly the “he.” I kept my are all created heterosexual, and that some of office space from the clinic for a few months, hate-motivated murders in 2009. until summer, when I don’t teach. Besides, as eyes on the judge, although I was curious about us just have different challenges with that,” the according to federal campaign reports. Many of last year’s 27 murders were against anger management to eating disorders. The much as I resent my exclusion from marriage, others’ reactions as I outed myself to the packed activist, John Becker said in an interview with Bachmann’s political rise was fueled early transgender women (70 percent) and gay men of The Associated Press. “God created us all for site advertises the clinic’s Christian affiliation, by her work on social issues, first through her he word family has suffered a lot of abuse. we find especially shameful. that resentment scarcely affects my desire to courtroom. color (44 percent). – he said that twice.” though nowhere are there references to ex- campaign to undo school standards she regarded Republicans have dubbed themselves the In cases of breakups, only the biological see criminals jailed and I was not chosen for “Transgender individuals and people of color The undercover video, first aired Monday, gay or so-called “reparative therapy.” It has as invasive and later by her dogged pursuit of a “family values party.” Many conservative parent or the legal adoptive parent has right to innocent people freed. jury duty. face multiple forms of discrimination on the basis Some may delight in July 11 by ABC News, comes at a time when locations in two Twin Cities suburbs, and has gay marriage ban in Minnesota. Torganizations have hid their bigotry behind the full custody of the child. This means many of the And so there I sat, The prosecuting of race, and other factors, which can Bachmann has emerged as a top GOP contender collected at least $137,000 from Medicaid- While Bachmann’s social stances haven’t make them more vulnerable to severe violence,” word, such as the American Family Association. other non-biological or non-legal parents get left eager to serve, as the attorney dismissed me this “gay disclosure backed programs. figure as prominently in her current campaign, said Maria Carolina Morales, from Community In our current collective consciousness, the word judge asked each juror a with her first “peremptory with a message that favors economic issues over In 2009, the American Psychological they have come up. Bachmann promotes faith United Against Violence in San Francisco. “In this family means something traditional, parochial standard list of questions. challenge,” meaning that the conservative social stands that marked her loophole.” I think it’s Association issued a resolution and report as her personal and political foundation, stresses report, we continue to grieve the many LGBT lives and conservative. Conservatives like to “Where do you live? Do there was no stated reason. early rise in Minnesota. Bachmann often touts strongly condemning the practice of gay her anti-abortion stances and highlights her role that are cut painfully short by violence.” But we all have families. you recognize any of the Maybe it was because I the family clinic as evidence of her business just a depressing reparative therapy. The resolution said no solid in Minnesota’s marriage debate. The report also makes recommendations No matter who you are or how you label pretend that only one people involved in this identified myself as gay. know-how. evidence exists that individuals can change their She drew questions last weekend for for changes in policy, increasing anti-violence yourself, you have parents and siblings and case? What do you do for a More likely, it was because Marcus Bachmann has denied in the past reminder of society’s sexual orientation and that efforts to do so could signing a conservative group’s “marriage campaigns, collecting data on sexual orientation grandparents and aunts and uncles and cousins. kind of family is valid: the living? Are you married?” I identified myself as a that his practice seeks to “cure” people of being induce depression and suicidal tendencies. vow” that contained controversial language and gender identity and calls for an increase in You also probably have people you care “Oh, shit,” I thought philosophy professor. As gay. In a 2006 interview with the Minneapolis blindness to the reality Becker’s group began looking into the comparing the home life of black children funding for studies dealing with violence against about but are related to by something other than so-called “traditional” to myself. litigator friends have often weekly newspaper City Pages, he called such therapy at the Bachmann clinic last month during the days of slavery and in today’s society. the LGBT and HIV-affected communities. The blood, such as marriage or adoption. “Are you married?” told me, prosecutors never claims “false” – though added that the Christian- of our lives. after Michele Bachmann, powered by tea party The group, the Family Leader, has since revised report also encourages politicians and celebrities Conservatives, Republicans and evangelicals family structure of a man, should be a simple want jurors who might affiliated clinic was open to patients who wanted support, burst onto the 2012 scene. Becker said its pledge to remove the slavery mention. to denounce anti-LGBT violence. like to pretend that only one kind of family is question, and at one level, “overthink.” to talk about their . most of the information he told the counselor The pledge, coupled with unflattering “The findings of this report are troubling valid: the so-called “traditional” family structure a woman and 2.5 children. my simple answer is No. I live in a state But the experience highlighted for me A receptionist at the clinic, Bachmann and was false and that he does not struggle with his attention to the clinic, isn’t sitting well among and reveal a need for the serious commitment of a man, a woman and 2.5 children. But all of (Michigan) that constitutionally prohibits me once again the hetero-normativity of everyday Associates Inc., turned away an Associated homosexuality. Republicans who worry about a party nominee of organizations, institutions, funders and our families should be respected and protected. But all of our families from marrying my partner, and we have not life, as well as the unintended consequences of Press reporter and said no one there would do Separately, a gay Minneapolis man who who could struggle to connect with swing voters. policymakers towards research and the In our first-ever family issue, we show how married in any other state. excluding same-sex couples from marriage. interviews. Bachmann’s campaign said neither said he was a teenage patient at the counseling “Those are fringe positions that will turn prevention of violence against LGBTQ and gay and lesbian parents and their families are should be respected and So, technically, no. When our opponents insist on treating our she nor her husband would be interviewed on center in suburban St. Paul also shared details off currently registered Republicans or voters HIV-affected individuals,” said Sandhya Luther completely unprotected in the state of Michigan. But legal marriage isn’t the only relevant spouses as mere roommates, is this really what the subject. about his treatment there several years ago. in that independent, movable middle,” said R. from the Colorado Anti-Violence Program in People in our community want to start families, protected. sense of marriage. My partner, Mark, and I have they want? Bachmann campaign spokeswoman Alice Andrew Ramirez told the AP that he was Clarke Cooper, executive director of the pro- Denver. “Our recommendations represent crucial but there are many dangerous pitfalls that await been together for almost a decade. Six years Do they want me to say “No” when asked Stewart said such matters are protected by patient-client confidentiality. “The Bachmanns 17 when his parents insisted he seek help after gay rights Log Cabin Republicans. “Politics steps for ending violence against LGBTQ and them. ago we had a commitment ceremony, publicly by a judge if I’m married, and to leave it at that? HIV-affected people in this country.” are in no position ethically, legally, or morally to he disclosed he was gay. Ramirez said he had is about numbers. It’s about addition. Having There are thousands of children in the state behind, and many children lose the love and care promising to love, honor and cherish each other What if Mark were a litigator? What if he worked The report also featured real stories of discuss specific courses of treatment concerning two counseling sessions in 2004. fringe positions, we’re going to lose voters.” who would benefit by being adopted. But the of a parent who raised them. for the rest of our lives. We merged our assets and for the prosecutor’s office? Legally, technically, victims of anti-LGBT violence, such as a ones in our community who want to adopt are And if these children lose a parent by death, melded our lives, and as far as we and our friends he’s not “family.” California transgender man who was attacked relegated to a life of single parenthood: even they can be put into or they can be left and most family are concerned, we’re married, The disparity between legal reality and in a university bathroom. His attackers carved though there is no law explicitly stating that gay financially destitute. Why? Children can’t receive and the state of Michigan can go screw itself. social reality is stark here. To take just one more the word “it” into his forehead, but police didn’t and lesbian parents cannot adopt, it’s banned in Social Security benefits for a parent they were How’s that for a response that will get me example: suppose I worked for my university’s recognize the word as an anti-transgender slur. practice – thanks to people in power who value never legally attached to. And if their legally out of jury duty? medical school. Then I would be required to Push begins to overturn teaching only one kind of family. Even the children of recognized parent passes away, they can easily Getting out of jury duty wasn’t my concern, disclose any pharmaceutical stock holdings by same-sex couples who conceive will have only become a ward of the state. however. “Voir dire” means “to tell the truth;” its myself or my spouse. But Mark is not my spouse, “In this report, we continue one legal parent in our state. For being a community that doesn’t make purpose is to reveal potentially relevant biases. legally speaking. to grieve the many LGBT For at least six years, the state legislature much noise about our families, we sure do And the judge’s follow-up question to “Are you Some may delight in this “gay disclosure has all but ignored bills that would make same- have a lot of pressing family issues. It’s time married?” was always “What does your spouse loophole.” Personally, I think it’s just a depressing gay history in CA public schools lives that are cut painfully sex parent adoption explicitly legal. Different that we stick up for ourselves. It’s time that our do?” He was particularly concerned about reminder of society’s blindness to the reality of attorneys general and state Supreme Court community centers and foundations rally behind spouses who were somehow connected to law our lives. SACRAMENTO (AP)– A family overturn the bill signed by Gov. Jerry Brown students to be more accepting in light of the short by violence.” justices have snubbed out the practice (because this issue. It’s time that we tell our legislators that enforcement. John Corvino, Ph.D. is a writer, speaker, and advocacy group is already challenging a new a day earlier. bullying that happens to gay students. It also such used to happen). And our Mark is an attorney. California law that adds lessons about gays to Brown, a Democrat, signed SB 48, making ensures that students are taught about the our families are our lives, and our families must philosophy professor at Wayne State University in community centers and supporting foundations be protected. It’s time that we stop suffering in Granted, he’s not a litigator, and we never social studies classes. California the first state in the nation to teach contributions of people who are gay, lesbian, –Maria Carolina Morales, Detroit. He recently ended his weekly column for have even ignored the plight of parents who are silence. It’s time that we demand the right to care discuss criminal law. But that’s the sort of thing Paulo Sibaja of the Sacramento-based about gays and in a public school bisexual and transgender in social studies. fighting for the right to visit their children – this for our families. the judge wanted to reveal when he asked about “The Gay Moralist”at 365gay.com. Read more at Capitol Resource Institute said he started the curriculum. Conservatives opposed the law, saying it Community United Against Violence spouses, and so I felt a moral obligation to www.johncorvino.com. process Friday, July 15 for a statewide vote to Advocates say the new law will teach would teach children to accept homosexuality.

12 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 13 News National Creep of the Week Marcus Bachmann Lesbian parent loses bid

By D’Anne Witkowski “I was talking in reference to children. Nothing, nothing to do arcus Bachmann and with homosexuality. That’s not my for shared custody the Christian counseling mindset. That’s not my belief system. clinics he owns are not That’s not the way I would talk,” anti-gay.M And if you say they are Bachmann told the Star Tribune. then you’re Get it? He was talking about Ohio Supreme Court rules 4-3 in favor of just an anti- kids. Totally normal mindset/ hetero hate belief system for a “mental health crimer. Stop professional” (self-professed, of biological mother for full custody rights hate criming, course) to have about kids. Not sure gays! So hate- what “thoughts and feelings” he was By Julie Carr Smyth lesbians should have all the rights that straight people have, ful, gays are, talking about or what he meant by and so do I,” he said. “The problem here wasn’t that it was about people “it” if his statement had “nothing, COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP)– An Ohio woman lost a lesbian or gay relationship, it was that they didn’t love who are just nothing to do with homosexuality,” her legal bid July 12 for shared custody of a girl whose each other anymore, and very sadly didn’t respect each trying to help especially since he seems pretty conception she planned with the child’s biological other anymore, and my client felt a clean break was in the them stop be- obsessed with homosexuality. And mother while the women were living as a same-sex best interest of the child.” ing disgust- never mind that he did, in fact, say couple in Cincinnati. Justices Evelyn Lundberg Stratton, Terrence Marcus ing “homosexuals” in that “doctored” Bachmann In a 4-3 decision, the Ohio Supreme Court ruled in O’Donnell and Judith Ann Lanzinger joined the majority. who make recording. favor of the child’s biological mother, Kelly Mullen, who Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor, Yvette McGee Brown Jesus puke. Speaking of doctors, Bachmann claimed sole custody of the girl, who is now 5. Mullen’s and Paul Pfeifer dissented. Thankfully Bachmann, and isn’t one. He does, however, own former partner, Michele Hobbs, shared parenting and O’Connor’s opinion, joined by McGee Brown, said the his presidentially hopeful wife, counseling clinics that offer anti-gay financial support of the girl, named Lucy, before the women court was wrong to accept the case in the first place because Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, reparative therapy. In other words, if split up in 2007. it established no new governing principle. One thing it did have Brian Fischer, a foremost expert you’re a homo they’ll help you pray Hobbs argued that the jointly planned pregnancy show, she said: Couples would be prudent to get custody in anti-gay quackery, on their side. the gay away for pay. This practice plus documents citing Hobbs as Lucy’s “co-parent” – arrangements in writing. Fischer claims that the Bachmanns has been renounced by groups like including a ceremonial birth certificate and will – created In his dissent, Pfeifer said Hobbs presented more than have “hatred ... directed against them the American Medical Association a contractual agreement between the women. A magistrate enough evidence to back up her claim. because of their religious beliefs” and the American Psychiatric who initially reviewed the evidence ruled the pair had a “Can an agreement that another person is a co-parent that borders “on a . You Association. binding agreement. in every way possibly not include a right to custody? It could also make the point that this But the high court on on July 12 sided with a later cannot. The trial court seems to agree, and thus turns its bigotry against the Bachmanns is decision to the contrary by the 1st District Court of Appeals. emphasis on the fact that the documents were revocable,” based on their sexual orientation.” Marcus Bachmann Justice Robert Cupp, writing for the majority, he wrote. “But the question before the court was whether Um, yes, I suppose you could and the Christian acknowledged that Hobbs presented significant evidence Mullen agreed to share custody of her child with Hobbs, argue that. If you must. The logic to support her claim to partial custody, but he said Mullen not whether she eventually came to regret that decision.” train stops here, folks. Everybody off. counseling clinics he also produced opposing evidence. He said the ruling didn’t produce a workable legal Now, I know what you’re “The court noted that all the documents created by rule for dealing with similar cases in the future, and thinking. “How is it unfair to call owns are not anti- Mullen which purported to give Hobbs some custodial indicated that the case at its heart was about the women’s Bachmann anti-gay? He called gays responsibilities not only were revocable, but were, in fact, sexual orientation. “barbarians” and his clinics try to gay. And if you say revoked by Mullen,” he wrote. “Testimony supported “The law has not caught up to our culture, and this “cure” gay people? Mullen’s statement that she did not intend to relinquish court has failed to craft a rule that addresses reality,” he Not so fast. That’s just the they are then you’re sole custody of the child to Hobbs.” wrote. “Mullen and Hobbs employed a well-versed lawyer liberal news media messing with He said Mullen “consistently refused to enter into or who represents people in their situation, and with his your mind. just an anti-hetero sign any formal shared custody agreement when presented advice did all they could do to protect Hobbs. A maternal “We have to understand: with the opportunity to do so.” relationship existed between Hobbs and Lucy. Mullen barbarians need to be educated. hate crimer. Mullen’s attorney Douglas Dougherty said the case taught her daughter to call another woman ‘Momma’ and They need to be disciplined. Just had nothing to do with the women’s sexual orientation. to love her as a mother. She now wishes she hadn’t, and for because someone feels it or thinks it “My client is a lesbian and proud of it, and she thinks the majority, that’s enough. It shouldn’t be.” doesn’t mean that we are supposed to go down that road. That’s what is called the sinful nature. We have An undercover gay activist a responsibility as parents and as (Curses! Gays are so tricky!) from authority figures not to encourage Truth Wins Out received “therapy” such thoughts and feelings from at Bachmann’s clinic that was Active-duty military march moving into the action steps,” supposed to get the gay out of him. Bachmann “supposedly” said last His “therapist” said things like, “God summer of homosexuals. designed our eyes to be attracted to He continued, “And let’s face the woman’s body, to be attracted in San Diego it: what is our culture, what is our to everything, to be attracted to her public education system doing breasts.” He also said that “in terms today? They are giving full, wide- of how God created us, we’re all By Rex Wockner for the length of the parade route through the gay open doors to children, not only heterosexual.” Hillcrest neighborhood. giving encouragement to think it As the Star Tribune reported, Some 300 active-duty troops (the majority of the Following a July 14 front-page story in the San Diego but to encourage action steps. That’s Bachmann said counselors at his contingent) and veterans marched in San Diego’s LGBT Union-Tribune, the crowd of 155,000 seemed aware that it why when we understand what truly clinics follow the wishes of patients Pride parade July 16. was seeing history in the making. is the percentage of homosexuals and don’t force any treatment. See? As far as can be determined, it was a U.S. first. The troops and veterans marched in groups broken in this country, it is small. But by It’s totally the patient’s fault. You It was a symbolic goodbye to “Don’t Ask, Don’t down by military branch. The Navy and Marines groupings these open doors, I can see and we walk in to any reputable clinic Tell,” which, while not quite dead-dead, is apparently were much larger than the others, given that San Diego is are experiencing, that it is starting and ask for some discredited and dead enough. home to Navy and Marine bases. to increase.” dangerous practice and they’ll be all, The military gay ban has been struck down by a federal The contingent was organized by Sean Sala, who left Why “supposedly?” Because “Well, if you say so, the customer is court and the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has refused the Navy in June after six years. Bachmann now claims that the audio always right.” to reinstate it – at least as far as active-duty troops are Video footage is available at tinyurl.com/wockner-sd. recording of these comments, made As Bachmann has (not directly) concerned – while the federal government plods through (The Associated Press estimated the size of the military to the Christian “Point of View” radio said, “God bless the free market implementing Congress’ repeal of the policy. contingent at 200, while said 250. The San Diego show, must have been “doctored.” system and god damn the gays.” Raucous cheering greeted the military contingent Union-Tribune said “more than 350.”)

14 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 News NATIONAL Gay parent case goes to US Supreme Court Couple seeks amended birth certificate from the state of LA for adopted child

By Lisa Keen themselves differently based on the marital status of their legal parents,” said Ken Upton, the Defense is taking its fight for Lambda attorney representing the couple out of same-sex families to the U.S. Supreme Court. Lambda’s South Central Regional office in Dallas. The case, Adar v. Darlene Smith, involves “We have long since abandoned the notion that a gay male couple, Oren Adar and Mickey Ray the government can punish children to express Smith, who sought an amended birth certificate for the boy they adopted in the state of New York. Revised birth certificates identifying a child’s “We have long since adoptive parents are often needed to verify family relationships to schools, medical providers, abandoned the notion insurers, and even law enforcement officials. The boy was born in 2005 in Louisiana, so the that the government can couple had to seek an amended birth certificate from the state of Louisiana. punish children to express Although Louisiana has a statute that entitles an adopted child to receive a revised disapproval of their birth certificate with the names of their adoptive parents, the state’s registrar and director of vital parents or their families.” records, Darlene Smith, refused to issue one for the gay couple’s son. Registrar Smith said she could not do so because the state also has a law –Ken Upton, Lambda attorney prohibiting unmarried couples from adopting. The 5th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals agreed with the state, ruling that the U.S. disapproval of their parents or their families.” Constitution’s “full faith and credit” clause does In its petition to the Supreme Court, filed not require a state official to accept the legitimacy July 11, Lambda says non-judicial officials of a of an adoption granted in another state. state should not be able to deny rights to a child by The legal question is whether a state’s selectively disregarding court judgments issued “public policy” – in this case, a public policy in other states “based on policy assessments against allowing unmarried couples to adopt – about the merits of those judgments.” And it said trumps the U.S. Constitution’s “full faith and the 5th Circuit majority was wrong to say that credit clause.” In its petition to the Supreme only state courts – not state officials — owe full Court, Lambda also urges that Louisiana’s faith and credit to court rulings in other states. treatment of the Adar-Smith family violates the Lambda also argues that the 5th Circuit equal protection clause. majority “plainly analyzed the wrong statute” Gay legal activists have long expected the in rendering its decision. Adar v. Smith, it says, issue of the “full faith and credit” clause to come was not a challenge to Louisiana’s law barring up in a gay-related case before the U.S. Supreme adoption by unmarried couples. It was a challenge Court, but most probably expected it would be on to the state’s law concerning vital records. a case involving one state’s refusal to recognize a “The two are not the same,” Upton writes in marriage license granted by another state. the petition. “Louisiana’s goals of promoting its Instead, notes Lambda, the issue is coming view of stable parental relationships in deciding before the court in a case involving the rights who can adopt in the state is irrelevant because of a child. Petitioners are already the adoptive parents and “Louisiana may not treat adopted children Louisiana cannot change that.”

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16 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 17 Fighting for family

Jeffrey McLoughlin and James McDonald pose with their son, Avon, who is seven months old. They adopted him in California, where they were both able to become his legal parents. BTL photo: Andrew Potter. Michigan law leaves behind gay and lesbian parents – and their children too

By Tara Cavanaugh an uphill battle. But gay and lesbian couples who dare to parent in Michigan are climbing “These kids need homes. That should be what the With practiced patience, James McDonald a mountain. manages snack time for a two-year-old who is legislators should be looking at. There are people, surprisingly chatty for her age. “She’s everything for her age,” he laughs. A first and last day of school whether they’re same-sex couples or not, who are “She’s incredibly smart. We joke she’s two The first day of school is about more than going on 20.” clean backpacks and fresh pencils – it’s marker able, willing and wanting to provide those homes. The precocious toddler is lucky to have a that the child has grown a year older. It’s a stay-at-home dad who will no doubt nurture her reminder that kids grow up fast. Shame on them for standing in the way of that.” natural intelligence. She’s also lucky to have On a first day of school in September fathers who temporarily relocated to California 2009, Renee Harmon showed up at the home just to be able to adopt her and her half brother. of her three children and former partner Tammy –James McDonald The family now lives in Ypsilanti. Davis. For ten years, the two raised the family Michigan doesn’t allow same-sex couples they planned together, but then they broke up. to adopt together, which means that gay and After Harmon moved out, she had an informal lesbian couples that want to become parents have custody agreement with Davis and saw the But Davis’ new partner opened the door crawled inside. Davis and her girlfriend tackled to carefully survey their options. But no matter kids regularly. told Harmon to go away – that she couldn’t see Harmon and dragged her out. how much they plan, Michigan law doesn’t That morning, Harmon rang the doorbell. the kids anymore. Harmon stood in the driveway and waited. even consider children from same-sex parents, She had never missed a first day of school. Her Harmon snapped. She had worried about Davis brought out the children when the and these families can be fractured in an instant. arms were full with coffee and bagels, new kids’ this. No one was going to prevent her from bus pulled up. They broke away from Davis Everyone knows that parenting can be clothes and a camera. seeing her kids. She broke a window and See Fighting for family page 20

18 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 19 Jeffrey McLoughlin holds his adopted son Avon while playing with his adopted daughter Anala. Anala and Avon Renee Harmon keeps relics of her three children around her house. She hasn’t are half siblings. McLoughlin’s husband, James McDonald, is a stay-at-home dad. BTL photo: Andrew Potter. seen them in two years, and she is currently fighting for custody. She raised the children with her former partner for ten years, but because she was never a legal parent, she now has no legal right to care for them. BTL photo: Andrew Potter. ® Fighting for family mountain. Her kids are at the top. Continued from p. 19 parents is in the best interest of the child,” Dievendorf says. “It’s Everyday dangers overwhelming testimony that delaying this is a terrible idea. And it and ran up to Harmon, crying. “We love you, will look like it should move with logic and scientific evidence in Nay-Nay!” they yelled. Gay and lesbian parents have to worry about support behind it, and then it doesn’t go anywhere.” Harmon hasn’t seen her children since. much more than a potential breakup, Nessel says. At home in Ypsilanti, McDonald shakes his head at the Harmon’s lawyer, Dana Nessel, hears a All sorts of problems await them in everyday life. legislature. “These kids need homes,” he says. “That should be what story like this once a week. For example: the problem of health insurance. Nessel knows of one family whose the legislators should be looking at. There are people, whether they’re kids lost their health insurance because their legal same-sex couples or not, who are able, willing and wanting to provide What Michigan law doesn’t say mother lost hers. The kids now use Medicaid those homes. Shame on them for standing in the way of that.” Harmon is suing for custody of her children. services. It’s a difficult case to make, Nessel says, because “So now they have terrible insurance,” Knowing where to look Harmon and Davis “never tried to adopt. They Nessel says, “and the state has to pay for that. Hands Across the Water is an adoption agency in Ann Arbor. In didn’t think they could.” And here they have another parent who wants June it won an award from the Campaign for helping Truth is, the two of them couldn’t adopt to put them on her insurance, but of course the gay and lesbian parents adopt. The HRC gives out awards like this together. In Michigan, a single adult can adopt a employer won’t allow that because they’re not because many adoption agencies don’t welcome gay or lesbian parents. child, and so can a married couple. But unmarried legally her kids.” The agency’s founder and director, Kathi Nelson, has noticed couples cannot adopt, and same-sex couples can’t Some kids with same-sex parents have even something interesting about these aspiring parents: At the monthly marry. Michigan won’t even recognize same-sex ended up in foster care when they lose their only information meetings, they’re quiet, and they don’t ask their questions marriages performed in other states. legal parent. until everyone else leaves. And even though Michigan Stories like these can prevent couples from In response, Nelson is planning the agency’s first information doesn’t explicitly say that an unmarried couple becoming parents, Nessel says. She remembers meeting specifically for gay and lesbian parents. She’s looking for can’t adopt, the judges who grant adoptions have two women who wanted to adopt a baby from a someone from the LGBT community to be on the agency’s board of come to that conclusion. pregnant teenager. They asked Nessel how they directors, and she asked a gay parent – McDonald – to lead a support These judges are likely influenced by the could protect themselves as parents. group. He held the first meeting last month. powerful figures who have attacked same-sex “They fought and fought about who would “I would like that people just to know that it can happen,” McDonald parent adoption. In 2004 Attorney General get to adopt the baby,” Nessel says. Finally, they says. “That it’s a possibility. And it is a struggle, but that’s what the group Mike Cox issued an opinion against same-sex decided whoever had the best health insurance is there for, to help you through the phases of your process.” parent adoption. Also, in 2002, a state Supreme should be the legal parent. Court justice issued an opinion that judges in “But the other one broke down crying and Washtenaw County shouldn’t perform same-sex said ‘I know too much, I’ve heard too much, A mother’s warning parent adoptions. The chief judge responded I’ve read too many stories, I can’t raise a child by telling clerks to stop accepting adoption knowing that at any time my child will be taken What would Harmon say to any gay or lesbian couple that is applications from same-sex parents. away from me. It would break my heart. I’m not considering adoption? “I would warn them,” she says. “I never thought What does this mean for Harmon and the a strong enough person. I can’t go through this. this would happen to me. children she hasn’t seen in two years? It means There’s no guarantees.’” “We were together nineteen years. When you’re in love and that she and her two lawyers, Nessel and Nicole The women broke up, and one adopted the you’re planning a family and you’ve been together so long, it never Childers, have to try and prove to the courts that child. “So who won in that scenario?” Nessel enters your mind that something like this could happen. Be careful.” Harmon intended to parent the children with asks angrily. Mostly, though, Harmon is angry that her children aren’t Davis, which she did, and that they functioned Few state lawmakers have tried to do protected: “They didn’t ask to be born in this situation and to have as a family, which they did. anything about this problem. A bill to make same- no rights.” But before they can do that, they have sex parent adoption legal has been introduced at Harmon has become a sort of poster child for the cause of same- to fight for the right to bring evidence before least three times, explains Emily Dievendorf, sex parent adoption, and she’s been contacted by other parents in the the court. That’s because Harmon was never a director of policy for Equality Michigan. But same situation, looking for help. “My advice to them was just do what legal parent. Her ability to present her evidence each time, the bill hasn’t even made it past you can to be able to see your children,” she says. is a question waiting for consideration by the committee to the state House or Senate floor She’ll keep sending her kids birthday cards and letters, even Michigan Supreme Court right now. for debate. though they are sent back. She’ll keep working with her lawyers, If it refuses her case, then Harmon is set “Any time there is a committee hearing even though she has to throw fundraisers to pay the bills. on suing in federal court. This, of course, would almost everybody offers testimony – and we’re She’s doing everything she can. talking about psychologists, social workers – as mean starting the long legal process all over again. See page 22 to learn more about adoption resources and Michigan law Harmon isn’t afraid of climbing the to why this needs to happen and that having two

20 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 21 OBSTACLES AND OPTIONS SAME-SEX ADOPTION IN MICHIGAN ILLUSTRATION BY BENJAMIN JENKINS REMEMBER... Any couple seeking to adopt a child should consult ADOPTION LAW IN MICHIGAN with an attorney before taking any action. Many of the options presented here can become expensive, so the earlier in the process a plan is developed, the OPTIONS more affordable options an attorney can offer. It is also OPTIONS essential that a parents create a detailed paper trail. A Michigan does not permit gay marriage, Many states offer adoptions to same-sex OBSTACLE paper trail helps protect parents and their child in case of couples. If a couple claims and proves residency Michigan honors joint adoptions finalized incapacitation or death. The better prepared parents are, in one of these states and connects with a child in other states. By complying with residency the stronger the argument they can make to protect their so same-sex couples may not legally placing agency or parent intending to put their RETURNING TO requirements in a state that permits same-sex families. child up for adoption, parents can apply for joint adoption, and ensuring that the adoption has been petition to adopt. Only one individual custody of the child. entirely completed before returning to Michigan, the These resources can help you in the adoption process: According to the , MICHIGAN family will enjoy full parental rights. Attorney: can be the child’s legal guardian. the following states currently permit same- Jane A. Bassett (Bassett & Associates, P.L.L.C.), Ann Arbor sex adoption with joint custody: California, If the adopting couple returns to Michigan before Phone: 734-930-9200 Connecticut, District of Columbia, Illinois, finalizing adoption,a MI judge cannot legalize Email: [email protected] Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, New , the adoption, because Michigan law regarding Adoption Agencies: New York, Oregon, and Vermont. Other states’ In Michigan: laws are unclear on same-sex parent adoption. adoption recommences. Hands Across the Water Orchard Children’s Services Any individual may petition to adopt a child. Oakland Family Services State-by-state LGBT adoption laws: Any married couple may petition to adopt a child. hrc.org/issues/parenting/adoptions/8464.htm OPTIONS State-by-state adoption requirements (residency, info, etc.): laws.adoption.com Unmarried couples have not been allowed to Legal parents can meet with an attorney to write up a “Nomination Affirmations Community Center hosts adoption adopt together. OBSTACLE of Guardianship.” This document workshops and resource fairs. For more information, call OBSTACLE states that the legal parent of the Kim Phillips-Knope at 248-398-7105 ext. 226. child wishes to have his/her partner DEATH OF LEGAL raise his/her child in case of death or PROOF incapacitation. A legal parent can also PARENT request this in a will. A judge does not Because Michigan does not recognize have to honor this nomination, but it does clarify the legal parent’s wishes. same-sex marriage, proving a relationship Even with a parenting agreement, the between a nonlegal parent and a child is nonlegal parent can lose his or her child if TAKE ACTION difficult. Nonlegal parents cannot claim their the legal parent dies. If the legal parent dies, child as a dependent. They also can’t claim an appointed judge determines the minor’s new Two bills that would legalize same-sex adoption in custody of their child in the event of a guardian. Michigan have been introduced: House Bill 4249 and OBSTACLE break up or divorce or their partner’s death or Senate Bill 167. Currently these bills are sitting in incapacitation. committee. Contact these lawmakers and tell them RIGHTS what you think of Michigan’s current adoption polices. House of Representatives Committee of Family, The nonlegal guardian has no rights to Children and Seniors: his or her child. He or she is unable to view OPTIONS Kenneth Kurtz, R-58, Committee Chair educational records, claim the child for tax Phone: 517-373-1794 OPTIONS Nonlegal parents can protect their Email: [email protected] purposes, make medical decisions, travel, put OBSTACLE children by leaving both their estates through driver’s education, etc. Many couples write up parenting and financial inheritance to them Dian Slavens, D-21, Minority Vice-Chair agreements. These contracts designate the in a will. Often parents will leave this Phone: 517-373-2575 responsibilities and arrangements a couple inheritance to the child’s other parent to Email: [email protected] has made outlining their roles in a child’s life. DEATH OF oversee until the child is oan While these agreements do not guarantee the non-legal parent custody or visitation NONLEGAL PARENT Senate Committee of Family, Seniors and Human OPTIONS of a child, they do provide written proof Services: that the non-legal parent intended to play a In the event of a nonlegal parent’s death, his Judy K. Emmons, R-33, Committee Chair Legal parents can work with an attorney to write up a “Delegation of Parental Rights.” parental role in the child’s life. They can prove OPTIONS Phone: 517-373-3760 This document allows legal parents to extend their parental rights to another person for the non-legal parent’s role as a “de facto or her child will have to depend entirely on Provided the child’s nonlegal parent is Email: [email protected] their child for six months. This allows nonlegal parents the right to decisions regarding parent,” regardless of legal guardianship or the legally recognized parent.The child would relatively young and healthy, life insurance medical treatment, education, travel, etc. Initially this practice was used for parents biology. not be eligible for any financial benefit (i.e. Social policies are a viable safety net during the who were undergoing extensive medical treatment or traveling for long periods of time. child’s youth, because beneficiaries can be Vincent Gregory, D-14, Minority Vice-Chair Nothing states that the current parent must be unable to fulfill his or her duties to enact a Security) from the deceased nonlegal parent. family or friends. The sooner this avenue is Phone: 517-373-7888 “Delegation of Parental Rights.” The document must be completed every six months. explored, the lower a person’s premium will Email: [email protected] likely be.

22 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 23 Photos: Screen Gems Timberlake and Kunis talk being allies, getting naked and breaking gay stereotypes

By Chris Azzopardi both of their butts; it’s a modern take on Justin Timberlake: (Deadpans) I’m extremely MK: Thank you, thank you. No, no – I the notorious hook-up scene – with lots comfortable with Mila’s body. agree. That’s the honest answer. It’s very hen Justin Timberlake and Mila of gayness going for it, including Woody choreographed and very specific. Kunis stroll into a hotel suite Harrelson as Timberlake’s gay manly-man Mila, how does fake sex with Justin Timberlake in Santa Monica, it’s clear why sidekick. compare to fake sex with Natalie Portman, your JT: It’s definitely less awkward when you’re Wthey’re in a movie about having emotionless, Just before lunch one recent morning, co-star in “Black Swan”? required to make them awkward. You know, just-for-fun sex – they’re both ridiculously Timberlake and Kunis sat down to talk about when you’re required – hot. He’s all dapper in a blue button-up; she’s the gay people in their own lives, breaking MK: Well, the only thing I can say is that one MK: model-esque in hugging blue jeans. stereotypes and the awkwardness of shooting was funny and one was scary. (Gets up from the table for a drink) As the stars of “Friends With Benefits,” sex scenes. director Will Gluck’s funny follow up to the Justin was the scary one? JT: (To Mila, sarcastically) That’s cool. I’ll take care of it. gay-famous “Easy A,” the dreamboat duo Are you as comfortable with your bodies as you seem to be in the movie? JT: I was more intrusive. You do the math. plays an emotionally impaired twosome MK: I’m right here, I’m right here! I just went living in New York who realize they have Justin, are those intimate scenes almost like to grab water. something in common: They both love Mila Kunis: I like to run around naked on the choreographing a dance number? streets all the time! (Laughs) No, I’m pretty getting frisky, but neither want the strings. JT: Wow, I really have abandonment issues The rom-com’s not just an excuse to see self-conscious in general. It doesn’t help that JT: It’s physical humor, so it has a level of I’m a female. theatrics to it. See Justin & Mila, page 32 24 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 25 Life APPEARING Shocantelle be-weaves in you Cooter County hairdresser comes to Detroit with combs, style tips

By Samantha White

ay hair, fades, braids and weaves – Shocantelle Brown has everything you need to be gay chic. “I do the frontal-hair that gay men like. If they want to use it Gto check men out, they can – because they can hide behind it and be Shocantelle Brown discreet,” she says. July 23, Ice Nightclub And for the lesbians? “With 11425 Joseph Campau, Hamtramck lesbians, the hair is a www.icedetroit.net lot simpler. They like to do all black hair with a patch of white in the front, kind of like Cruella de Vil.” The hairstylist extraordinaire and entrepreneur is taking the Cooter County hair industry by storm with her two salons, I Be- Weave and Fades and Braids. She’s also the only salon in town, so that helps. But she is definitely making her mark by styling most of the residents; Brown assists the queens and queers in her town as long as they come with their fabulousness already intact. She says, “I don’t like to help anybody be fabulous and fierce if they’re not ready. So, they sit in my chair and we pray together for a look. “Like, I had this one girl come in who wanted a birdcage on top of her head. So we took a titanium cage and wrapped hair extensions around it and stuff. And we put a bird in it and put it on top of her head; it looked like a nest.” The “artist,” as she refers to herself, says she is a religious person and was ordained by God to start doing hair. “I was seeing some disasters on some fades and weaves, and I’m a religious person and I got a calling to help them,” Brown says. The Cooter County native is one of many crazy and quirky citizens of the Kentucky town: Trudy and Tina James, Tikka Marsalla Greenwood, Paul Mean Dilly, Nancy Higgins and Kitty Litre are just a few of her quirky neighbors. Lakeesha and Boneeva are two of the town’s ghetto fabulous hairdressers who work for Shocantelle at Fades and Braids. And when you’re done getting your hair did, you can stop by and see Tatianna who “will stuff and buff your beaver” and get a “vagazzle.” Brown will bring her hair expertise to Ice Nightclub in Hamtramck on July 23, when she’ll also debut her new single, “I Be- Weave.” It’s a rare treat for her Detroit fans that only get to watch her on the Internet; Shocantelle rarely leaves her small Kentucky town. “I have not been out of Cooter County, and I never been to Detroit, but I’m excited. I’m looking for Aretha Franklin,” she says. “We’re going to have fun at Ice,” Brown says. “Imma do some hot dance moves, and I will be passing out free combs and talking to people about the possibilities for their hair. And we gon’ get our drink on.” The Cooters aren’t the only ones who love Shocantelle; her gay fans everywhere have embraced the stylist for her sass and knowledge as a weave connoisseur. “I guess they love me because I love them,” she responds when asked why she believes she gets so much love from the gays who go to her to maintain their fabulousness and watch her on her YouTube channel or at cootercounty.com. “They’re fierce and fabulous and we need more of that in the world. We don’t need anymore of these uptight mother fuckers.” The God-fearing hairdresser also has some words of inspiration for her gay fans that aspire to be like her one day: “Gays are so creative. I mean, I’m creative. But I be-weave everybody has the ability to do what they want. If you can be-weave it, you can do it.” And we, of course, do – Detroit is sometimes referred as “the hair capital of the world” for its many salons and weave shops, and when Shocantelle is clued into that fact she enthusiastically asks, “Really?!” taking a pause to absorb it. Cooter County may have to fight to get her back from us.

26 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 27 Cool Cities Ferndale

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Visit our website! YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD • YOUR MARKET http://www.pridesource.com Pinpoint your ad dollars where BTL Advertisers Downtown Ferndale Bike Shop. 4 Go Comedy...... 7 MiChigo Pizza...... 13 Add our fan page! Affirmations...... 1 Edward Korkoian Funeral...... * Green Thumb Garden Center....8 S.P.I.C.E...... 1 Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” they will do the most good . . . Essential Massage...... 5 Hodges...... 9 Pete’s Place...... 14 Bill Freund Olympic Schwinn The parody “Thank You For Being A Friend” continues at The Ringwald through Aug. 8. Photo: Colleen Scribner Advertise in the next Cool Cities Fitness Center...... * Ferndale DDA...... 6 Just for Us...... 10 State Farm, Marty O’Neil...... 15 Follow us! Chazzano Coffee...... 2 Frederk Collins...... * MCC Detroit...... 11 Vogue Vintage...... 16 @YourBTL TO PLACE AN AD CALL 734.293.7200 Comos...... 3 GLBT Book Club...... 3 Michigan AIDS Coalition...... 12 * Not shown on map

12 12 Girls: Thank you for being so funny! ‘Golden Girls’ parody closes the summer at The Ringwald

impersonations. By Donald V. Calamia REVIEW Jamie Richards channels Bea Arthur’s I suspect if Susan Harris was able to Thank You For Dorothy – from her sweeping gestures to break the shackles of 1980s television and her statuesque stance. And Richard Payton write an episode of “The Golden Girls” Being A Friend is quite impressive perfectly capturing totally free of the NBC censors, it might Who Wants Cake? at The Ringwald Theatre, (and having great fun with) the vocal look something like “Thank You For Being 22742 Woodward Ave., Ferndale. intonations of Rue McClanahan’s Blanche. A Friend,” the unofficial musical parody Saturday-Monday through Aug. 8. $10-$20. Joe Plambeck is given an opportunity to that had its opening night audience at 248-545-5545. explore a heretofore hidden side to Betty Ferndale’s Ringwald Theatre screaming whowantscaketheatre.com White’s usually sweet Rose, and he runs with laughter. with it. And although Jeff Weiner starts And with good cause: Director Joe they can think of into the 90-minute out sounding Jewish rather than Italian, he Bailey knows his audience, and as a parody to bring the story to its inevitable quickly settles in and wonderfully recreates result, he delivers a raucously delicious conclusion. Sure, the plot meanders a bit Estelle Getty’s Sophia – purse and all. production that both pokes fun at and Assisting the characterizations are the and the music by Luke Jones and Jeff 13 celebrates the long-running comedy that’s Thomson sounds rather familiar. That excellent costumes by Vince Kelly. still loved by gays and straights alike matters little, since the careful attention All other roles are played by Ringwald thanks to endless reruns on cable TV. to “Golden Girls” lore – slightly altered, newcomers Billy Dixon (Lance Bass) and Set in Miami, roommates Blanchet, of course, to avoid nasty cease-and-desist Rich Wilson (Cubby and Stan). Both work Dorthea, Roz and Sophie are having letters from NBC lawyers – and the hard, but neither approach the level of skills trouble sleeping thanks to the nightly gay sheer lunacy of the plot quickly endear exhibited by the rest of the cast. And while sex parties thrown by their new neighbor, themselves to fans of the original series. Dixon certainly looks like the character he Lance Bass of the boy band ‘N Sync. Unless you’re easily offended, that is. is playing, he doesn’t come close to sharing When confronted by the girls with their (Trust me on this: “Thank You” contains Lance’s vocal skills. (He’s not alone in that demand to stop his orgies, Lance issues adult situations and language. And plenty department, however.) them a challenge: If they win the Shady of penis and vagina jokes.) A surprise guest appearance during Oaks Retirement Home’s upcoming talent Remember, though, we’re talking Roz’s flashback sequence rounds out the contest, he’ll do as they ask. But if he wins, about The Ringwald here – so there’s show, and as expected, it brought the house the girls must become his personal cleanup a twist: The women are all played by down on opening night. That alone – plus crew for a month. men. And I bet first-timers at the popular watching Payton and Richards struggle to So as you can imagine, writer Nick theater might not realize that right away, stifle their laughs, neither of whom are in Brennan and director Bailey toss every since all four performers have done their the scene, by the way – is worth the price cheap joke, sight gag and double entendre homework and are quite good with their of admission!

28 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 29 Cool Cities Ferndale Life HEAR ME OUT by Chris Azzopardi 4 Dolly goes jolly on ‘Better Day.’ Plus: Vanessa Carlton’s musical transformation the jaunty “Tall Tales for Spring” or the almost-Taylor Swift “I Don’t Want to Be a Bride” would probably have the broadest appeal. But this album’s not meant for mainstream. And with music this good, so what? Grade: B Also Out

Weird Al Yankovic, ‘Alpocalypse’ Be included in our A lot has happened in Cool Cities Pages the five years since Weird Al’s last album – like Lady Call us today: Gaga, the muse for two songs on the music satirist’s new installment of pop- 734-293--7200 x13 song parodies. Besides the ridiculous and appropriately over-the-top “Perform This Way,” he does his own version of “Poker Face” – called “Polka Face” – as a melody of mainstream hits. Elsewhere, he takes on celebrity-obsessed culture, forwarded junk emails and Craigslist – all 14 3 are on point, and often very funny. But who knew he was romantic? On “If That Dolly Parton, ‘Better Day’ Vanessa Carlton, Isn’t Love,” he charms with this lovely Times are hard, but Dolly’s here with a ‘Rabbits on the bit: “You’re so beautiful you make a Run’ new album – and her trademark look-on- glorious sunset look like a big fat turd.” the-bright-side attitude – to tell you it’s not On Vanessa Aww, thank you? all that bad. “Grindstones and rhinestones, Carlton’s fourth that made up my life” – you know it, drag album, it’s like queens – “but I’ve shined like a diamond she’s walked a Gillian Welch, through sacrifice.” And she does, making her thousand miles ‘The Harrow & cheery 12-track disc of original material a – from that the Harvest’ satisfying hit of happiness. This is pure Dolly, image of the pop balladeer she once was. The Americana and the country legend is as charismatic The ballads are there on “Rabbits on the legend’s first and charming as ever on her 41st LP, which Run,” but they take on a Tori-lite sound, album in eight opens with her words-of-wisdom paean “In with that same etherealness. Having come years isn’t an the Meantime.” That song – and the couple out as bisexual last year and signing to easy one. Its that follow, like the beautifully harmonized an indie label could be catalysts for the deep South- ballad “Somebody’s Missing You” – keep it sense of freedom she thankfully employs sounding ruminations on poverty, traditional until the Disney-made cutesiness on this project, made of 10 songs that are addiction and death (why of course) are called “Together You and I.” She follows as intimate as she’s ever been. “Carousel” nitty-gritty songs. Not even a Xanax it with “Country is as Country Does,” a begins familiarly, and then drifts into a could lift these up, and that’s just fine reminder that she hasn’t forgotten her down- dreamy soundscape that sucks you in with – because, for the most part, Welch home roots – and good thing; this one’s a its enchanting use of handclaps, orchestral strangely soothes, even though none of the splendidly sassy hoedown ditty. “Holding airiness and Carlton’s underrated voice. songs rise above a simmering tempo. Her Everything” is a soaring sequel to her “I Will That’s especially true on “Hear the Bells,” bare-bones approach on traditionalism Always Love You” classic; “Better Day” is where she hauntingly sings in her lower works especially well on “Hard Times,” a bluesy talk-sing song that few could pull register – and sounds brilliantly moody an encouraging nudge. The rest hits you off. Both leave you fuzzy. Even at her most doing so. “Fairweather Friend” builds hard, even if you don’t actually know woebegone with “I Just Might,” she’s a fierce like a Coldplay triumph; “Get Good” what hit you. It’s one of the best kinds of survivor. On “Better Day,” Dolly’s persona relies on guitar instead of piano to drive albums, revealing itself slowly over time lets her get away with more than most artists a hearty melody; and she takes a chance and making you feel something – even if could; she’s sometimes shamelessly corny, with “In the End,” the closing piano all you feel is human. delivering one-liners like “I’m quite content ballad à la Sarah McLachlan’s “Last with who I am, and if you ain’t, well kiss my Dance.” Sonically, some of “Rabbits on ham.” Always true to herself, it’s hard not to the Run” is monotonous, and absolutely Reach Chris Azzopardi at chris@ always love her. Grade: A- none of it sounds radio-made – though pridesource.com.

30 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 31 Life FILM

I was like my parents, the more I was able to gain You hear a lot about how younger generations my own independence. are more interested in the hook-up culture than dating and relationships. What kinds of You have a very funny dynamic with Woody stories were you told from people before you Harrelson’s character in the movie. Do either of shot the movie? you have gay friends like him in your own lives? MK: I was interviewed by a reporter when I was JT: I’m glad that you brought that up. That doing press for “Black Swan” and she told me was very important to Will (Gluck) and myself that her current husband started as friends with when we were diagramming that relationship, benefits, so it wasn’t up until then that I actually because I do have a lot of male friends – started paying attention to the idea of it. But I straight and gay – and nobody gets treated feel like this concept’s been around forever. It’s differently. Your friends are your friends. We just that people are more willing to talk about it had a lot of discussions about that and said, now. It’s not as taboo as it was. I think that our “What a great opportunity to break ridiculous generation is a little more forthcoming, a little stereotypes about a gay male and show a great, more honest, and I think are embracing honest relationship between a straight man and their sexuality more so now than they were 30, a gay man that’s just a friendship between two 40, 50 years ago. men.” I really hope that it feels empowering to the males in the gay community, because it’s What about men? real life for me. And to have somebody like Woody, who’s MK: Men have always embraced their such an affable, goofily charming person in real sexuality! (Laughs) I don’t think men have ever life, play that type of character is a real huge had a problem embracing their sexuality. benefit for the movie. I was very excited to know that he was going to play that character because JT: I disagree with that. Seriously. I think that we really wanted to, like I said before, break men have always been uncomfortably external stereotypes and comment on modern life. You about their sexuality. take some chances when you do that, but I really What are your favorite romantic comedies? hope that it feels empowering in a way, because I was very proud to have that in the movie. MK: Other than “When Harry Met Sally,” it’s (Looking at Mila) She agrees. a bit of a cheesy answer but it’s honest: “Pretty You have lots of gay friends, too? Woman.” One of my favorite movies in general.

MK: Yes, yes. I do! (Laughs) I’ve had an JT: I think it’s great, because it’s the movie that assortment of young gay gentlemen in my life your character loves in this movie. (Laughs) I since I was, like, 10 years old. don’t think you should feel bad about that. It’s a great movie; it makes you laugh. JT: I think it’s an important time to say that people are people, and this was a good MK: I can put that movie on mute and tell you opportunity to do that. Again, Woody’s word-for-word each piece of that. I love that character is self-effacing about his own sexual movie. It truly makes me happy. preference and he finds humor in it and I find humor in it, and we actually use our differences JT: I got in trouble for saying “Terms of to become related to each other – and that’s Endearment.” (Pointing to Mila) She was like, important. So again, I’m just really proud of “That’s not a romantic comedy!” But it made that aspect of the movie. me laugh! When you first meet Woody in his first I will say “When Harry Met Sally” is a great one, and what I love about that movie is ® Justin & Mila working. I just think, like she said, we had scene his dialogue is jaw-dropping, but as you what I love about what we aspired to do with this Continued from p. 25 an unusual amount of time to rehearse, so we get to know his character in the movie you movie, which was stop and look around at our were able to discuss the scenes when we work- realize that that’s his actual character’s sense generation and say what’s funny and ridiculous shopped them and find what we thought was of humor in general. It doesn’t have anything with you. That’s a stupid joke. Don’t make that about it. And for me, that empowers people who like-minded from a male perspective and a to do with his sexual preference; it has to do serious. But we wanted to use these scenes to will go see this movie that want to be spoken to in female perspective. with his sense of humor. So I hope that really break a little ground. There’s a lot in it that just a smart way about love and sex and relationships feels more like how we see our generation. comes across. You’re a fan of Harry Potter in the movie – and connections between people. Did you feel like you had a kindred quality which, in the film, is said to be a gay thing. Are between you two? you a fan?

MK: We have the same sense of humor, is JT: I’m sorry, that’s like a thing about wizards? what we realized early on. The chemistry Harry… Potter? I’m aware of it. Harry Potter’s “I really hope had a lot to do with the writing and the quick pretty amazing. We’re all fans. banter, and when we got comfortable with the characters it was easy to put that across Do you both think that a lot of young people are that it feels onscreen. We became friends because we had reluctant to get into relationships because they two, three months of rehearsal and writing don’t want to repeat their parents’ mistakes? empowering to and rewriting, and you don’t always get that – so you hope that somehow that translates JT: I think that happens with every person, and not the males in the onscreen. If you have a great time doing a just with relationships. You go through a certain film, you hope the audience has a great time point in your life where you feel like you’ve taken gay community, watching it. But as far as feeling like kindred all the cards you’ve been dealt and made a great spirits, I think we had a lot of things in situation out of them, and then things that are in because it’s real common. your DNA that you have no control over, you have to kind of accept. But I think that you go through life for me.” JT: We actually do have a lot in common. We life – not just in relationships, but all facets of life bonded over a lowbrow sense of humor that – feeling like you want to gain your independence, –Justin Timberlake we share, but also, we kind of grew up in the so sometimes there’s a misunderstanding of business, so we kind of share that. And we’re feeling like you have to break away from your both pretty normal people when we’re not parents to do that. The more I realized how much

32 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 Life Curtain Calls For the latest professional theater news: www.EncoreMichigan.com More ado needed for gender-bending play By Bridgette M. Redman REVIEW Would that our language possessed a gender-neutral pronoun that did not render Much Ado About the objectification of “it” or the stiltedness Nothing of “one.” Such a pronoun would have Blackbird Theatre/Shakespeare West at greatly aided the actors in Shakespeare West Park, 300 N. Seventh Ave., Ann Arbor. West’s “Much Ado About Nothing” in the 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday through July 30. adaptation that pairs a female Benedick with $25. 734-332-3848. a female Beatrice and a male Claudio with www.blackbirdtheatre.org a male Hero. Without it, the opening night production confusing mishmash. had actors mixing their pronouns between The world of Shakespeare West’s the original ones Shakespeare chose and the “Much Ado” serves as a model fantasia for Shakespeare West’s “Much Ado About Nothing” ones that fit with the adaptation. Overall, continues through July 30 at Ann Arbor’s West what our world could be if we didn’t let Park. Photo: Barton Bund the concept is one with great potential. For gender politics and get in the way the story to truly work within the concept, of people loving each other. The characters Director Brian Carbine needed to take the celebrate each other’s love and put the He plays the young innocent who is easily adaptation a few steps further. For example, pursuit of marriage and lifelong devotion as swayed and given very little to independent when Beatrice demands that Benedick a topmost priority. No one finds it unusual thought – very much the thankless role that perform her revenge in proof of Benedick’s that a man should love a man or a woman a Shakespeare created. love, it makes no sense that she describes woman. Love itself is celebrated as natural Likewise, Emily Patton-Levickas the revenge as a man’s task. Benedick is no and normal. creates a swaggering Benedick, convinced more a man than she is. Yes, the speech is a The actors in the Shakespeare West that she shall escape the chains of love that great one and the scene is necessary. So why production handle the language adroitly turn a person to a mooning fool. She has all not focus on what IS different about them, and have mastered the comedic physicality the bombast and wit of Shakespeare’s famous such as the fact that Benedick is a soldier. of the play. They speak clearly and deliver protagonist and is equally matched by Diviin Let Beatrice bemoan the fact that a challenge the language in an accessible manner that Huff’s energetic and sunny Beatrice. Both are of honor is the work of a soldier and that she could be heard even over the typical outdoor devoted to their companions and easily gulled is no soldier. Other speeches that point out distractions of birds, planes and chain saws. when love starts to snare them. They have the gender differences need equal modifications Forrest Hejkal embodies the traditional strong stage presence necessary for the roles if we are to believe that the genders are Hero archetype as a simpering, shy ingenue and are convincing sparring partners. what the production is presenting them as. who blushes in the presence of his love and There are times when speeches are modified wears virtue and virginity as badges of honor. and times when they aren’t, which leaves a Williamston ends season with sure-fire hit!

By Donald V. Calamia REVIEW On paper, Williamston Theatre’s current production of “And The Creek Don’t Rise” And The Creek sounds like a delightful summertime comedy. Don’t Rise For starters, it’s the world premiere of a script Williamston Theatre, 122 S. Putnam Rd., by local playwright Joseph Zettelmaier, Williamston. Thursday-Sunday through Aug. whose previous efforts earned him local and 14. $18-$24. 517-655-7469 national accolades. Then there’s the cast – www.williamstontheatre.org} each of whom is among the best Michigan’s industry has to offer. Then to top it off, the “It Came From Mars” and “Salvage,” once behind-the-scenes folks are fine artisans again tackles fresh territory – this time, a excellent at their crafts. fish-out-of-water story. And he does so by So with a pedigree this good, how creating fully fleshed-out and believable Doc (Thomas D. Mahard) pays a visit to his new could it miss, I asked myself on the drive to characters that everyone can identify with neighbors, Rob (John Lepard ) and Maddie (Kate Williamston. Peckham) in Williamston Theatre’s “And The and relate to. After all, who among us hasn’t Creek Don’t Rise”. Photo: Chris Purchis By 9:45 p.m. or so on opening night I felt out of place at one time or another – at had my answer – and based on the comments a new job, after moving into a different Zettelmaier’s script is ultimately a story about I overheard while standing in the theater’s neighborhood or even at a party? But as human connections, and Albright expertly lobby after the performance, I suspect most usual, it’s Zettelmaier’s crisp dialogue that delivers both its warmth and its humor people agreed with me: “And The Creek especially sparkles – enhanced by the superb with great care and affection. His pacing is Don’t Rise” is a sure-fire, don’t-miss hit! delivery by the show’s three actors. excellent, as well. Zettelmaier’s warm and charming story Lepard is a master at delivering Daniel C. Walker’s set – mostly the opens in Carson, Georgia where Rob (John asides and quips, and one has to wonder exterior of the Graff’s house, plus various Lepard) and Maddie (Kate Peckham) Graff if Zettelmaier wrote the role of Rob with moveable set pieces – and Reid G. Johnson’s have relocated from Michigan. Maddie, Lepard in mind. (It’s a perfect fit for the lighting design effectively work together to a veterinarian, arrived weeks before her lanky actor.) tell the story. (What impressed and surprised unemployed and slightly older husband, and Peckham earns plenty of laughs with me was the hospital bed: It was the quietest he’s having a tough time adjusting to their her “there’s no doubt what I’m trying to tell I’d ever seen; you never hear it come rolling new life. When their closest neighbor, retired you” facial expressions. And her intense onto the stage during a scene change.) doctor and Civil War re-enactor Dr. Benjamin focus never wavers. As the play opens, Rob calls his Boggs (Thomas D. Mahard), comes a ‘calling And Mahard is thoroughly delightful new home town a place “where culture with a housewarming gift to welcome them as their proud and gentlemanly Southern goes to die.” That’s certainly not the case to town, friction immediately develops neighbor. But keep a close watch on his face, with Williamston. Rather, with such fine between the men. And the “friendly” rivalry because even the slightest change reveals programming courtesy of the Williamston that ensues takes North-South aggression much about his character’s motives. Theatre, it’s a destination where people can to hilarious, but potentially life-threatening The production is well-served by visit for a fine cultural experience! extremes. director Joseph Albright, last seen in Zettelmaier, whose recent work includes Williamston’s “While We Were Bowling.” Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 33 For expanded listings, visit www.pridesource.com

Braun Court, Ann Arbor. 734-678-2478. Flashback Dance Party, 8 p.m. Dance Farmington Downtown Development Palace of Auburn Hills, 5 Championship Flintyouththeatre.org Wednesdays at Go Comedy! Go Sept. 8. Wyandotte Arts Center, 2306 Lawrence Street Gallery “Summer Authority “Rhythmz in Riley Park “ Friday Dr., Auburn Hills. 7:30 p.m. July 23. 248- Comedy! Improv Theater, 261 E. Nine 4th St., Wyandotte. May 1-Aug. 31. 734- Invitational” Annual exhibits featuring Hivaidsresource.org/hiv-testing party with DJ Charles English from Todds I Remember Mama Plays in rotating fame spinning retro favorites. Featuring a night concerts in downtown Farmington. 377-0100. Palacenet.com Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-327-0575. 324-7278. newest work by local artists. Showcases Walter E. Sundquist Pavilion, 33113 Grand repertory. $8-$19. Hope Summer Gocomedy.net over 50 works in two and three- Outings special performance by magician Steve University of Michigan Museum of Repertory Theatre at DeWitt Theatre, 141 Farmington Downtown Development OUTINGS Monday, July 25 River Ave., Farmington. June 10-Aug. 26. dimensional media. The Lawrence Street DeCraemer’s Deception Theatre. Static Art “Jazz Series: Los Gatos” Assembled E. 12th St., Holland. July 22-Aug. 13. 616- Authority “Farmington Farmers & Artisans Wednesday, July 20 Mid-Michigan Transgender, 6 p.m. Network, 1716 Michigan Avenue, Detroit. 248-473-7276. Downtownfarmington. Theater for Young Gallery, 22620 Woodward, Ferndale. Detroit’s Hotter Than July runs July 27-31 The group offers an informal gathering, org/Downtown-Events/Whats-Happening/ in 1997, this small group focused on 395-7890. Hope.edu/hsrt Market” Each Saturday. Fresh Michigan June 29-July 30. 248-544-0394. Meet the Mavens, 3 p.m. Free. Meet and 313-964-5103. Corktowntavern.com Audiences this year, with events throughout the down- taking a more ‘light-hearted’ approach to Rhythmz-in-Riley-Park traditional Afro-Cuban rhythms. Art Fair produce, baked goods, locally produced Lawrencestreetgallery.com greet with the Mitten Maven Roller Derby Concert in Forum Court, 525 S. State St., Marie Antoinette: The Color of Flesh Abracadabra: Popcorn Magic Show $7. honey, handcrafted soaps and emollients, town area. The celebration begins with the allow in the Tri-City area an 25th Annual Music in the Valley, 11 Previews July 28-31 & Aug. 4 ($10-$32). Tibbits Summer Theatre, 14 S. Hanchett Girls. Mention the Mitten Mavens when opportunity to connect with one another p.m. 25th annual celebration. Windover Ferndale Public Library “An Evening Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. July 20. 734-763-4186. fine art and jewelry, photography and a MOCAD “barely there” Group exhibition KICK (Agency for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual you order and a portion of the bill will help of Music for Flute and Guitar” Jeffery Umma.umich.edu $27-$41. Performance Network, 120 East St., Coldwater. July 29-Aug. 6. 517-278- variety of unique, artisan-made products. featuring James Lee Byars, Luis for socializing and support. Perceptions, Resort’s music festival oriented weekend. Huron St, Ann Arbor. July 28-Aug. 28. 734- 6029. Tibbits.org and Transgender African-Americans) the team raise money for practice space, 5789 State St., Saginaw. 989-598-6566. Windover Women’s Resort, 3596 Blakely Zook on Flute and Bret Hoag on Guitar. Walter E. Sundquist Pavilion, 33113 Grand Camnitzer, Jason Dodge, Pable Helguera, and other expenses. Mitten Mavens 663-0681. Performancenetwork.org presented “Kickin’ it on the River” and perceptionssv.org Road, Owendale. 989-375-2586. Featuring selections of classical and Other Disney’s Camp Rock-The Musical A River Ave., Farmington. May 28-Oct. 29. Christoph Keller, Lee Loazno, Rivane and Lansing Roller Derby, 8741 West Saginaw Latin music. Part of the Ferndale Public Kerrytown Concert House “Week After Much Ado About Nothing $25. Blackbird regional premiere. $10 adult, $6 youth. 248-473-7276. Downtownfarmington.org Sergio, Neuenschwander, Wilfredo Prieto, the VIP artist exhibit and reception in the Hwy, Lansing. MittenMavens.net Library’s Summer Concert Series. Free. Pascale Marthine Tayou and Adolf Wolfli. Wednesday, July 27 Sun, July 31 Art Fair Song Fest-Singing Our Brains Theatre, West Park, 300 N. Seventh Ave., Stagecrafters, Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. Flint Institute of Arts “Something Waits Detroit Liberal Art Gallery. Ferndale Public Library, 222 E. Nine Mile Out” Night of cabaret featuring various Ann Arbor. Through July 30. 734-332- Lafayette, Royal Oak. July 22-31. 248- Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit, Ties Like Me Professional Networking, , 5 p.m. Beneath It” Early work by Andrew Wyeth, LGBTQ Affirming Discussion HTJ! 2011 Jazz and Soul Brunch, 1 p.m. Road, Ferndale. 5:30 p.m. July 25. 248- genres of music and area star performers. 3848. Blackbirdtheatre.org 541-6430. Stagecrafters.org 4454 Woodward Ave., Detroit. May 27- 4:30 p.m. Complimentary appetizers, cash Considering the story of Adam and Eve 1939-1969 is an intimate exhibition The following days consist of candlelight Brunch served at 1 p.m., performances at 547-6008. Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N. Fourth July 31. 313-832-6622. Mocadetroit.org bar and a backstage tour of the theater. and if the story addresses the issue of Plays of early and seldom seen works by 2 p.m. Hotter Than July, 400 Renaissance Ave., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. July 29. 734-769- Much Ado About Nothing Flaming Idiots $14. Riverwalk Theatre, vigils, mic nights, workshops and parties. More information online. Comerica Bank, sexual orientation. Pilgrim Congregational Kerrytown Concert House “A Night in repertory. $30-$36. Michigan the young Andrew Wyeth, including Riverside Arts Center “Ann Arbor Center, Detroit. Blackpridesociety.com 2999. Kerrytownconcerthouse.com 228 Museum Drive, Lansing. July 21-31. On July 30, the 16th annual pride festi- 1526 Broadway St., Detroit. 248-379- United Church of Christ-Welcoming And in : Hot Jazz” Brazilian guitarist Shakespeare Festival at Baughman 517-482-5700. Riverwalktheatre.com watercolors of Maine and Pennsylvania Women Artists” summer juried exhibit. val in Palmer Park will provide music, 9527. tieslikeme.org Affirming Church, 125 S. Pennsylvania Lezread, 4 p.m. Ann Arbors book group and composer Bruno Mangueira makes Warren/Conner Development Coalition Theatre at Jackson Community College made from 1939 through the 1960s. Riverside Arts Center, 76 N. Huron St., for Lesbians. Meets the last Sunday of first appearance in Ann Arbor. Tickets: How I Became a Pirate $10. Hope Flint Institute of Arts, 1120 E. Kearsley Ypsilanti. July 14-July 31. 734-483- LGBTQ Affirming Discussion, 5 p.m. Ave., Lansing. 517-484-7434. “Eastside Farmers Market” Fresh produce, Potter Center, 2111 Emmons Road, entertainment and a celebration of culture. every month. Lezread, 319 Braun Court, $30-15, $10 students. Kerrytown Summer Repertory Theatre at Studio St., Flint. June 1-Aug. 7. 810.234.1695. 7345. Riversidearts.org Considering Leviticus in light of the PilgrimUCC.com healthy foods, and unique artisan items. Jackson. Through Aug. 5. 517-998-3673. Lastly, the week concludes with an official Ann Arbor. 734-678-2478. lezread@ Concert House, 415 N. Fourth Ave., Ann Everything locally made and sold directly Michiganshakespearefestival.com Theatre in the DeWitt Center, 141 E. 12th Flintarts.org idea of a Holiness code and discussing , 6:20 p.m. A The Rust Belt Market “A Pinch of Spice Kickin’ It On The River yahoo.com Arbor. 8 p.m. July 22. 734-769-2999. by the growers and producers. Accepts St., Holland. Through Aug. 12. 616-395- pride closing party, celebrating the event’s similar texts that are almost universally three-hour cruise with buffet, live DJ and Contains adult themes. Flint Institute of Arts “Edmund and More” Rust Belt Market for vintage, Kerrytownconcerthouse.com cash, Bridge Card, Double Up Food Bucks, Out of Order 7890. Hope.edu/hsrt “sweet 16.” ignored by Christians and why. Pilgrim cash bar in celebration of Hotter Than $20-$26. Tibbits Summer Theatre, 14 S. Lewandowski: Precisionism and Beyond” design, and art. Woodward Ave. & 9 WIC, Project Fresh, credit, and debit. Congregational United Church of Christ- July. Kick, Rivard Plaza, . 313-285- Kerrytown Concert House “Alberto Hanchett St., Coldwater. July 21-30. 517- Kolobok $10 adult, $5 children. This is the first retrospective exhibition Mile Road, North West Corner, Ferndale. Detroit Weekly music and entertainment. Mack Individual events are listed in Happenings, Welcoming And Affirming Church, 125 S. 9733. E-kick.org Rojo Trio” Argentinean music, including 278-6029. Tibbits.org PuppetART, 25 E. Grand River, Detroit. of Milwaukee-born artist Edmund June 25-Nov. 20. 246-622-1621. as well as online at pridesource.com or Pennsylvania Ave., Lansing. 517-484- styles such as tango and chacarera, Alter Square, 14820 Mack Ave., Detroit. Saturdays through July 30. 313-961- Lewandowski (1914-98), the preeminent Apinchofspiceandmore.com 7434. PilgrimUCC.com Caring Caregiver, 6:30, p.m. A support MUSIC & as well as jazz standards arranged June 11-Oct. 1. 313-571-8200 x.1117. Return to the Forbidden Planet Plays 7777. Puppetart.org second-generation Precisionist, who hotterthanjuly.com. group for anyone who is caring for with South American flair. Tickets: Facebook.com/eastsidefarmersmarket in rotating repertory. $10-$26. Hope achieved recognition for extending the The Scarab Club “Family Ties Exhibition” LGBTIQ Support Group, 7 p.m. An Scheherazade: Legend of the Arabian someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia. $30-15, $10 students. Kerrytown Summer Repertory Theatre at DeWitt style of Precisionism beyond the East Showcasing the work of artists within inclusive environment for all gender who Nights $7 adult, $5 ages 17 and under. This group is open to family, friends, Concert House, 415 N. Fourth Ave., Ann Theatre, 141 E. 12th St., Holland. Through Coast and into the Midwest, making it family units. The Scarab Club, 217 are healing from domestic and/or sexual All-of-us Express Children’s Theatre at spouses and partners. Everyone is MORE Arbor. 8 p.m. July 30. 734-769-2999. Aug. 11. 616-395-7890. Hope.edu/hsrt a national style. Flint Institute of Arts, Farnsworth, Detroit. July 8-Aug. 13. 313- assault. YWCA of KGLRC, 629 Pioneer St., Hannah Community Center, 819 Abbott welcome! Alzheimer’s Association Kerrytownconcerthouse.com 1120 E. Kearsley St., Flint. June 1-Aug. 7. 831-1250. Scarabclub.org Kalamazoo. 269-349-4234. Classical Shakespeare Unplugged $10. Road, East Lansing. July 22-July 30. and Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile 810.234.1695. Flintarts.org Kerrytown Concert House Allison THEATER Michigan Shakespeare Festival at 517-333-2580, ext. 0. Cityofeastlansing. UMMA “Curator’s Talk” A. Alfred Taubman Music & More Road, Ferndale. 248-996-1053. Majestic Theatre “Buckethead & Wolff” Cregg, Ashley Dyer and Michele Cooker. Buckethead of Guns N’ Roses solo Civic/Community Theater Bone Island Grill, 4614 Francis St., com/allofus Henry Ford Museum “Discovering the Galleries’ exhibition curator Xiaobing Thursday, July 21 Goaffirmations.org Tang speaks in the informal setting of Area violinists performing solo violin performance. The Majestic Theatre, 4140 2nd Annual Playwrights at Work Jackson. July 27-Aug. 5. 517-998-3673. Civil War” Tickets: $15 adults, $11 youth. Australian singer/songwriter Sia brings her Network, 7:30 p.m. Open Sleeping Beauty $7. Tibbits Summer the galleries as he offers a first look HTJ! 2011 VIP Artist Exhibit and sonatas and duets, including works Woodward Ave., Detroit. 8 p.m. July 28. Weekend $10. Village Players, 34660 Michiganshakespearefestival.com Henry Ford Museum, 20900 Oakwood and inclusive community of people Theatre, 14 S. Hanchett St., Coldwater. at UMMA’s new exhibition, Multiple unique vocals and eclectic sound to Detroit Reception, 7 p.m. Special guests, art, by Beethoven and Debussy. Tickets: 313-247-5270. Majesticdetroit.com Woodward Ave., Birmingham. July 29-31. Blvd., Dearborn. May 21-Sep. 5. 313-982- living polyamorously, people interested Sundays at Go Comedy! $7 for the night. Through July 23. 517-278-6029. Impressions: Contemporary Chinese during her “We Are Born Tour.” Her latest music, network and entertainment. No $25-10, $5 students. Kerrytown 248-644-2075. Birminghamvillageplayers. 6001. Thehenryford.org in polyamory and people of, friendly to Olympia Entertainment Paul McCartney, Go Comedy! Improv Theater, 261 E. Nine Tibbits.org Woodblock Prints. University of Michigan dress code, everyone is welcome. Music Concert House, 415 N. Fourth Ave., Ann com album, “We Are Born,” won “Best Inde- and curious about polyamory. Welcomes Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, will make Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-327-0575. Kalamazoo Institute of Arts “The Museum of Art, 525 S. State St., Ann and art provided by Detroit artists, such as Arbor. 8 p.m. July 21. 734-769-2999. The Commedia Tales of Aladdin $6. diversity of sexual orientation and gender Gocomedy.net Chinese Scholar’s Brush” Works from pendent Release” and “Best Pop Release,” Poor.Man’s.Art.Collective. Hotter Than July, Kerrytownconcerthouse.com his first concert appearance in the City Annie $15. The Croswell, 129 E. Maumee Water Works Theatre, Starr Jaycee Arbor. 3 p.m. July 31. 734-647-0524. identity. Polyamory Network, 319 Braun the Albert and Betty Chang Collection. and its first single, “Clap Your Hands,” won Barefoot Wines and The Detroit Liberal of Detroit in more than three decades for St., Adrian. Through July 24. 517-264- Taking Steps $8-$19. Hope Summer Park, 1101 W. 13 Mile Road, Royal Umma.umich.edu Court, Ann Arbor. 734-678-2478. Kerrytown Concert House Nicolas Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, 314 S. Park, Art Gallery, 3361 Gratiot Ave., Detroit. his “On the Run Tour.” Tickets: $19.50- 7469. Croswell.org Repertory Theatre, DeWitt Theatre, 141 Oak. July 26-Aug. 7. 248-703-2645. “Best Video” at the ARIA Music Awards Jimtoycenter.org Pellon, Washington D.C. based pianist Kalamazoo. May 7-Aug. 27. 269-349- University of Michigan Museum of Art Blackpridesociety.com 250. Comerica Park, 2100 Woodward, E. 12th St., Holland. Plays in repertory Waterworkstheatre.com of 2010. and educator presents a solo concert Detroit. 8 p.m. July 24. 866-668-4437. 7775. Kiarts.org “Calder’s Circus and Mobiles” Saturdays Professional through July 26. 616-395-7890. Hope. Family Style: Learn about Alexander of Mozart, Schumann, Chopin and Liszt. Olympiaentertainment.com The Wiggles Big Birthday Party! $15- Friday, July 22 Thursday, July 28 A Mousetrap Cabaret $10. Park Bar, edu/hsrt “A Matter of Sia has collaborated and performed with Tickets: $25-10, $5 students. Kerrytown 39.50 general seating, $75 VIP seating. Kerrytown Concert House Calder, one of the 20th century’s most Motown International Gay Rodeo and 2040 Park Ave., Detroit. 10 p.m. July 22. Light and Depth” Photography by Angela Emory Book Party, 6:30 p.m. This Concert House, 415 N. Fourth Ave., Ann Olympia Entertainment “INXS’ The Tartuffe $30-$36. Michigan Shakespeare Palace of Auburn Hills, 5 Championship ingenious and influential artists, in a Zero 7, Beyonce and Christina Aguilera. Festival, 5 p.m. Amateur rodeo featuring Parkbardetroit.com and Jim George, using light to give depth. month the Emory Book Club discusses Arbor. 4 p.m. July 24. 734-769-2999. Original Sin Tour.” Tickets: $35.50-68.50. Festival at Baughman Theatre at Dr., Auburn Hills. July 29. 248-377-0100. hands on family workshop. Registration: Her music has been featured in television horse, rough stock and entertainment Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N. Fourth The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho: A story Kerrytownconcerthouse.com Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward Ave., A Streetcar Named Desire $34. Barn Jackson Community College Potter Ticketmaster.com $44 UMMA or AAAC members and UM shows such as “The Big C” and “Six Feet events. Food and beverages available about a young shepherd who dreams Detroit. 7:30 p.m. July 30. 313-471-6611. Ave., Ann Arbor. July 1-Aug. 12. 734-769- students, $48 Non-members. Advance Kerrytown Concert House “Week Theatre, 13351 W. M-96, Augusta. July Center, 2111 Emmons Road, Jackson. with vendors, all to raise money for local about treasure and sets out to find it. The Olympiaentertainment.com 2999. Kerrytownconcerthouse.com registration required. Forum, 525 S. State Under,” as well as full-length films like After Art Fair Song Fest-Eine Kleine 26-Aug. 7. 269-731-4121. Barntheatre. Through Aug. 6. 517-998-3673. charities. Food drive to collect food for Emory, 22700 Woodward Ave., Ferndale. St., Ann Arbor. 11 a.m. July 30. 734-763- Liederabend” Art song repertoire including Olympia Entertainment “Death Cab For com Michiganshakespearefestival.com Kresge Art Museum “Hiraki Sawa: Other “The Twilight Saga: Eclipse.” local food pantries. Michigan International 248-547-6008. 4186. Umma.umich.edu Gay Rodeo Association, Quick Road and works by Schubert, Wolf and Mahler. Cutie” Tickets: $30-45. Fox Theatre, 2211 And The Creek Don’t Rise $18-$24. Thank You for Being a Friend $20 Dwellings” Sawa’s videos are intimate, Sia, with Danish musician Oh Land, stops I-94, Belleville. michiganrodeo.org Interfaith Candlelight Vigil, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $25-10, $5 students. Kerrytown Woodward Ave., Detroit. 7:30 p.m. July Williamston Theatre, 122 S. Putnam Road, general, $10 on Mondays. Who Wants ART ‘N’ sometimes hermetic meditations on place University of Michigan Museum of Art Candlelit vigil at the Blue Spruce Memorial Concert House, 415 N. Fourth Ave., Ann 28, 7:30 p.m. July 28. 313-471-6611. Williamston. Through Aug. 14. 517-655- and the wonderfully odd activities that can “Multiple Impressions: Contemporary at Saint Andrew’s Hall, 431 E. Congress ’s Film Night, 7 p.m. Film- Cake? at The Ringwald Theatre, Tree. Hotter Than July, Blue Spruce Arbor. 8 p.m. July 28. 734-769-2999. Olympiaentertainment.com 7469. Williamstontheatre.org 22742 Woodward Ave., Ferndale. occur in imaginative dimensions. MSU, Chinese Woodblock Prints” 114 works St., in Detroit at 8 p.m. July 23. Tickets are Between Two Women. Barbara Marten Kerrytownconcerthouse.com Auditorium & Physics Road, East Lansing. by 41 artists, including Xu Bing, Kang Memorial Tree, Palmer Park, Detroit. Olympia Entertainment “An Evening with Through Aug. 8. 248-545-5545. $29. Visit siamusic.net for more informa- gives a bravura performance as Ellen, Blackpridesociety.com Chicago $34. Barn Theatre, 13351 W. April 30-July 21. artmuseum.msu.edu. Ning, Song Yuanwen, Chen Qi, He Kun, MSU College of Music Ray McLellan, Chrisette Michele” Tickets: $35-38. Sound Whowantscaketheatre.com AROUND tion. a working-class mother in Northern M-96, Augusta. Through July 24. 269- Ann Arbor Street Art Fair “Ann Arbor 517-884-0659 and Fang Limin, as well as many other who struggles mightily with Michigan State University Carillonneur. Board Theater, 2901 Grand River Ave., 731-4121. Barntheatre.com The Borrowers Plays in rotating repertory. accomplished printmakers. University Friday, July 29 Summer Carillon Series, established in Detroit. 8 p.m. July 22. 866-752-9622. Street Art Fair” Established in 1960, Kresge Art Museum “Visualizing Sound” her feelings for another woman, who $10. Hope Summer Repertory Theatre, attracts 500,000 attendees from across Of Michigan Museum Of Art, 525 South Genesis Conference Workshop XVI, 1996 through generosity of Dr. Milton Olympiaentertainment.com Children of Eden Plays in rotating Harry Bertoia’s sound producing, beryllium happens to be her 10-year-old son’s Studio Theatre in the DeWitt Center, 141 the nation. Named number one art fair by State St., Ann Arbor. July 16-Oct. 23. 4 p.m. 16th annual Genesis conference Muelder. MSU Beaumont Tower, 102 repertory. Hope Summer Repertory copper sculpture, Sound Piece, 1978, will exuberant teacher. Affirmations, 290 W. Royal Oak Music Theatre Ellie E. 12th St., Holland. Through Aug. 12. American Style in 2004. Downtown Ann 734-763-4186. Theater Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398- workshops. Includes a writing and Music Building, East Lansing. 6 p.m. July Theatre at DeWitt Theatre, 141 E. 12th St., interact with a digital visualizer in this Goulding. Tickets: $22. Royal Oak 616-395-7890. Hope.edu/hsrt Arbor, Downtown, Ann Arbor. July 20-July publishing 101 with Anondra Kat Williams 20. 517-353-9958. Music.msu.edu Holland. Through Aug. 12. 616-395-7890. performative sculpture experience. MSU, 7105. Goaffiramtions.org Music Theatre, 318 W. Fourth St., Royal 23. 734-994-5260. Artfair.org and authors such as Stanley Bennet Clay, Hope.edu/hsrt The Music Man $28. The Encore Auditorium & Physics Road, East Lansing. The rockin’ beats heard out- Sally Harwood in Oak. 7 p.m. Aug. 2. 248-399-2980. Ifalade TasShia Asanti, and Queen Sheba. MSU College of Music Musical Theatre, 3126 Broad St., Dexter. April 30-July 21. artmuseum.msu.edu. Saturday, July 23 the Summer Carillon Series, established Royaloakmusictheatre.com Comedy Mondays $5 for an all-night Craig Mitchell Smith Glass Gallery side the walls of the Baldwin Followed by an author’s cafe meet and Through July 31. 734-268-6200. 517-884-0659 in 1996 through generosity of Dr. Milton pass. Dog Story Theater, 7 Jefferson “Glass in the Garden” Display of Theatre are those of Stage- Motown International Gay Rodeo, 9 a.m. greet supplied by Black Pride Society. Royal Oak Music Theatre Gillian Theencoretheatre.org Muelder. MSU Beaumont Tower, 102 Ave. SE, Grand Rapids. 616-894-1252. larger than life glass art in the garden. Two-day gay rodeo with horse events, Also: Agape Spirit Life Ministries presents Welch. Tickets: $30-35. Royal Oak crafters Youth Theatre present- Music Building, East Lansing. 6 p.m. Aug. Dogstorytheater.com The Sex Maniac $16. Broadway Admission: $5. Dow Gardens, Midland MI, rough stock events, gay camp events, “For Men, By Men: Authentication, Music Theatre, 318 W Fourth St, Royal ing the regional premiere of 3, 6 p.m. Aug. 3. 517-353-9958. Music. Onstage Live Theatre, 21517 Kelly Road, 1809 Eastman Ave., Midland. May 22-July food, beer, vendors, organizations and Validation and Empowerment” with Oak. 8 p.m. July 23. 248-399-2980. Consider the Oyster Contains strong msu.edu Eastpointe. July 22-Aug. 20. 586-771- 31. 800-362-4874. Dowgardens.org “Disney’s Camp Rock – The entertainment. Tickets: $10 with if you special guest Dr. D Marcell. Hotter Royaloakmusictheatre.com language and adult themes. A world bring non-perishable food donation for 6333. Broadwayonestage.com Musical.” The upbeat musical, Than July, Renaissance Center, Detroit. MSU College of Music Stefano Colletti, premiere. $25-$40. The Purple Rose Cranbrook Art Museum “Saarinem SE MI Gleaners. Rodeo benefits local food Saint Andrews Hall “We Are Born Tour” Blackpridesociety.com native to . Summer Carillon Series, Theatre Company, 137 Park St., Chelsea. The Tempest $20. Water Works Theatre at House and Garden” rare integration of performed by youth from the banks and The Ruth Ellis House. Michigan Sia with Oh Land and Ximena Sarinana. established in 1996 through generosity of Through Sep. 3. 734-433-7673. Starr Jaycee Park, 1101 W. 13 Mile Road, art, architecture, design and nature’s tri-county area, runs July 22 International Gay Rodeo Association, Womyn’s Film Night, 7 p.m. Film-My Tickets: $29. Saint Andrew’s Hall, 431 E. Dr. Milton Muelder. MSU Beaumont Tower, Purplerosetheatre.org Royal Oak. July 21-Aug. 7. 248-703-2645. total work of art. Designed in the late 10871 Quirk Road, Belleville. 616-735- Normal. The story of Natalie, a young Congress, Detroit. 8 p.m. July 23. 313- through 31 at the Baldwin 102 Music Building, East Lansing. 6 p.m. Waterworkstheatre.com 1920s, Saarinen House served as the 4521. michiganrodeo.org igra.com lesbian from the Lower East Side, who’s 961-8137. Siamusic.net Cop Block $10. Planet Ant Theatre, 2357 Theatre, 415 S. Lafayette, in July 27. 517-353-9958. Music.msu.edu home and studio of the Finnish-American struggling to find a balance between her Caniff Ave., Hamtramck. Through July 23. The Winter’s Tale Previews July 21. Plays designer Eliel Saarinen and Loja Saarinen , 2 p.m. Queer for Books “Tim Robbins and the Rogue downtown Royal Oak. Queer For Books dreams of becoming a film maker and her The Ark 313-365-4948. Planetant.com in rotating repertory. $30-$36. Michigan from 1930 through 1950. Cranbrook discusses the book Band Fags by Frank A. Gallery Band” Tickets: $35. The Ark, 316 lifestyle as a dominatrix. Affirmations, 290 Concerts Shakespeare Festival at Baughman Art Museum, 39221 Woodward Ave., Polito. Also: a special prize for those who S. Main, Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. Aug. 3. 734- Ernie $20-$25. City Theatre, Audiences will be transported W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398- Alyssa G. Smith “5th Annual Percussion Theatre, Jackson Community College Bloomfield Hills. May 2-Sep. 30. 877- attend the discussion. Ferndale Public 761-1800. Theark.org 2301 Woodward Ave., Detroit. to Camp Rock, the ultimate 7105. Goaffirmations.org Recital” Admission: Free. Reception Potter Center, 2111 Emmons Road, 462-7262. Cranbrookart.edu Library, 222 E. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. to follow, where guests can choose to Through Aug. 21. 313-471-6611. Add your events to next week’s issue! The Ark Maura O’Connell. Tickets: $25. Jackson. July 21-Aug. 7. 517-998-3673. summer camp for aspiring 248-546-2504. [email protected] donate to Susan G. Komen, combating Olympiaentertainment.com Detroit Artist’s Market “Underwear The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor. 7:30 p.m. Michiganshakespearefestival.com musicians. If the name seems Saturday, July 30 breast cancer. The Flint Institute of Music Show” A curated group show will take Bingo, 8 p.m. “This ain’t July 31. 734-761-1800. Theark.org Five Guys Named Moe A regional At our website! 12th Annual Ruth Ellis Pride March, Flint School of Performing Arts, 1025 Thursdays at Go Comedy! $15. Go a fun look at exposing this secretive familiar, the musical is the your grandma’s bingo.” Hosts Sabin, Trixie premiere. $26-$39.75. Mason Street 10 a.m. Hotter than July’s Pride March East Kearsley St., Flint. 5 p.m. July 28. Comedy! Improv Theater, 261 E. Nine Mile subject matter. Detroit Artist’s Market, stage adaptation of Disney Channel’s “Camp Rock” movies that premiered in 2008 and Deluxxe or September Murphy. Open to all The Ark Ricky Skaggs, Bluegrass-country Warehouse, 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. http://www.pridesource.com/calendar.html proceeds down Woodward Hotter Smithmarimba.com/breast_cancer_3-day Road, Ferndale. Through Aug. 25. 248- 4719 Woodward Avenue, Detroit. 18+. Refreshments and bingo food fare. master comes to Ann Arbor. Tickets: July 22-Aug. 7. 269-857-4898. 2010. The story is based on “Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam” and features more than a dozen Than July, Woodward Ave., Detroit. $37-44.25. The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann 327-0575. Gocomedy.net July 29-July 30. 313-822-0954. Reservations available by phone. Five15, “Poolside Concert” Celebrate Masonstreetwarehouse.org songs, including the pop hits “This Is Me,” “Can’t Back Down,” “It’s On” and “We Rock.” Blackpridesociety.com Douglas J Arbor. 7 p.m. July 28, 9:30 p.m. July 28. Detroitartistsmarket.org 515 S. Washington, Royal Oak. 248-515- the 10th Annual Douglas J. Golf Twelve Angry Men $15-20. What A Add our fan page! 734-761-1800. Theark.org Fridays and Saturdays at Go Comedy! 2551. Five15.net 16th Annual Palmer Park Pride Festival, Do Theatre at First United Methodist Downriver Council for the Arts Advance tickets for performances are $6 youth and $10 adult. Tickets may be purchased by benefiting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Go Comedy! Improv Theater, 261 E. Nine 12 p.m. Pinnacle event of Detroit’s Church, 111 East Michigan Ave., Battle “Jured Photography Exhibit” The Search: “Pridesource.com Event Calendar” Foundation. Featuring the Sprague The Palace Britney Spears with special Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-327-0575. phone at 248-541-6430. Hotter Than July celebration. Hosts Creek. Through July 30. 773-744-8598. DCA is accepting entries for a juried Sunday, July 24 Brothers. Admission is free. Donations guest Nicki Minaj. Tickets: $29.50-150. Gocomedy.net guests taking a moment to celebrate Whatado.org photography exhibit at the Wyandotte HARC Provided HIV/AIDS Testing, 5 gladly accepted. All proceeds benefit the Palace of Auburn Hills, 5 Championship culture, self-empowerment and identity. JDRF. Refreshments available. Walnut Hills $18. Flint Youth Arts Center. Professional and amateur p.m. HARC provides anonymous and Dr., Auburn Hills. 7 p.m. July 28. 248-377- Great Expectations Urinetown $29. Farmers Alley Theatre, Follow us and get reminders! Features music and entertainment. photographers can submit up to four free HIV counseling, testing and referral Country Club Pool, 2874 E Lake Lansing 0100. Palacenet.com Theatre, 1220 E. Kearsley St., Flint. 221 Farmers Alley, Kalamazoo. Hotter Than July, Palmer Park, Detroit. entries. A non-refundable $15 entry fee services through its outreach at the Rd, East Lansing. 5 p.m. July 25. 517- July 22-Aug. 6. 810-237-1530. Through July 31. 269-343-2727. @PSOURCEcalendar Blackpridesociety.com 853-6995. Douglasj.com/jdrfgolf The Palace Keith Urban and Jake Owen’s is required for all entries. Exhibit begins Jim Toy Community Center. HARC, 319 “Get Closer” World Tour. Tickets: $28-78. Farmersalleytheatre.com

34 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 35 Horoscopes You could do better, Leo! By Jack Fertig By Jody Valley Relationships aren’t a competitive sport. Venus in Cancer aspecting Mars in Gemini should be good for whispering sweet nothings, but Eris aspects both, and Mars is right on the South Node. Resist Horny all the time temptations to be assertive and clever. Go for chocolates and exotic love poetry. I bet you haven’t received a letter like mine led to my feeling like I can send pics, which ARIES (March 20 – April 19): SCORPIO (October 23 – Q:before. I’ve been in a relationship with leads to a better sex drive. You are effective in defending November 21): Speaking up “Richard” for 12 years. We had a commitment I’m also a bit worried about my job. It’s your family and community, but for what – and whom – you ceremony five years ago. I love him very much not like I’m a political or a public person, but if simply responding to perceived want will probably work, but and don’t want to lose him. I truly believe that this got out I could lose my job. (I’m not going insults or attacks is short-sighted. don’t imagine that it will happen he is my soul mate. to mention my job as I don’t want this letter to Take a longer, more strategic discreetly. Word will get around. My problem is that I’ve been cheating lead, in anyway, to my being found out.) So, I’m view. Understand the history and New ideas for teamwork can on him, at least sort of cheating, and now I’m worried on that front as well. context of any conflicts, all the transform your workplace. At feeling scared and a little guilty. How do I get myself to stop this when my better to address them. both work and play, stay focused I guess I didn’t feel all that guilty, or really dick seems to be in control? on your long-range priorities. think I was cheating, until the Weiner case Leading Life With Wrong Head TAURUS (April 20 – May 20): became public. I, too, have been sending pics Romantic and sensual as you are, SAGITTARIUS (November of myself to guys. My pics are probably even you could be a bit sexier! Be 22 – December 20): Smart- more explicit than the ones I saw on TV and the I’m assuming since you haven’t told Visit our website! willing to challenge your own mouthing your beloved may Internet of Anthony Weiner. A: Richard this and you’re feeling guilty values, perhaps some old hang- have worked for Nick and Nora Now, I’m sorry that I’ve done this and I’m and fearful of his finding out, your commitment http://www.pridesource.com ups? Examine inner conflicts Charles, but do you have their afraid it is going to come back to haunt me, like is that you and he have committed to remaining with someone you really trust. panache? Verbal or not, playful it has for others in the news who have done this. monogamous. Add our fan page! Push yourself just a little out of teasing can get out of hand. A The other thing that is upsetting is that I continue As I see it, you are playing with fire, and your comfort zone! little is good, but it goes a long to do it. It’s like I can’t stop. You’d think I would, have a lot to lose doing what you are doing – Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” way. Keep the Golden Rule in but I don’t! like your job and your “soul mate,” for starters. GEMINI (May 21- June 20): mind! Most of my pics have gone out to guys It appears to me that you have a sex Follow us! Harness your current surge that I don’t know. Just sending them gives me addiction problem, and you need to get help. of energy constructively! CAPRICORN (December a thrill, as well as getting back responses from Besides being unfaithful to Richard, you are @YourBTL Especially resist the urge to 21 – January 19): Flirtations at them, sometimes getting pics in return. putting yourself in danger in other ways as well. outspend your pals, or fritter work need to be kept very mild. I have to admit that some of my pics have But you are the one who will have to make a energy and resources on Remember what happened to led to sex with a few guys, but that’s all it is, sex. decision to get this help. You need to get your mindless indulgence. Keep long- Dominique Strauss-Kahn! Co- No emotional involvements. For the most part, I upper head in control of your life. range value in mind. Work with workers are not (usually) family, don’t know these guys and I don’t think they want People with addictions – of all sorts – often others, especially your partner, but a homey spirit – bring in anything else from me, either. As I said, I don’t wait until their lives are torn into pieces before toward a common goal. some home-baked goodies? want anything as far as a relationship goes because they finally get the help they need. I hope that’s arrange a potluck lunch? – can I already have that with my partner Richard. not your case. You need to search out a therapist CANCER (June 21- July 22): help build teamwork. You are probably wondering why I do this who works with addictions – preferably sex Venus in your sign enhances in the first place. Well, it spices up my sex life addictions – if you want to keep this from ruining your charm and beauty. Don’t AQUARIUS (January 20 – and spices it up with Richard as well. Granted, your life. If you need help finding someone in dither or be shy. Push yourself February 18): Working out he doesn’t know why I’m so hot (since I’ve been your area, let me know and I will help you. ahead, but also use your charm to should be fun and creative at doing this), but he benefits as well. Richard is promote charitable works. That some level. Explore new ideas younger than I am, by 15 years. I used to have a If you would like to know more about sexual also helps your career, but it’s no to stay engaged in your fitness hard time keeping up with him in the sex arena, additions, go to Dear Jody Valley on Facebook. substitute for good hard work. regimen. Friends should have but now I don’t. Ever since I’ve been doing this Jody Valley spent 12 years as a clinical social helpful suggestions. Don’t be – about two years ago – I have been one randy worker. She worked with the LGBT community LEO (July 23 – August 22): shy to ask! guy. Richard noticed this and has been happy both as a counselor and a workshop leader in the Your explosion of energy could about my increased interest in sex. He thinks areas of , self-esteem and relationship make the party, but you could PISCES (February 19 – it is because of me joining a gym and having a do better. Hide out in a creative March 19): It’s all about the better body, which has stimulated my sex drive. issues. Reach Jody at DearJodyValley@hotmail. retreat with a few friends who home cooking! Old family I guess, in a way, that’s true. My new body has com. The “Dear Jody” column appears weekly. really stimulate your talents and recipes could save you a fair productivity. You and they could bit of money and inspire you to Solution to puzzle from page 38 accomplish a lot! economic perspectives that can PUZZLE SOLUTION help your career. Even if the VIRGO (August 23 – ideas don’t start in the kitchen, September 22): Rally your thrifty initiatives will get you friends toward whatever aims noticed. you may share. This exercise in leadership will be good for Jack Fertig, a professional you socially and professionally. astrologer since 1977, is available Remember it’s all about achieving the goal, not about your ability to for personal and business run the show. consultations in person in San Francisco, or online everywhere. LIBRA (September 23 – He can be reached at 415-864- October 22): You may be rising 8302, through his website at to the top like cream, but staying www.starjack.com, and by email sweet could be a challenge. Keep at [email protected]. your eye on the details and the basics. Remember who’s on your side. Avoid needless arguments and other distractions.

36 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 37 Rear View ODDS & Ends Rear View Classifieds

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38 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 39 Cocktail Chatter

The Vodka Tonic by Ed Sikov as I felt, because Robbie chimed in, “Berri – like in blueberry – and Acai, that rain forest Kyle, Robbie, Phil Levine and some whatever. That whippin’ hot bartender at Top little wisp of a Thai twink on Phil Levine’s of the Harbor was making something real lap were hot in conversation when I arrived good out of it a couple weeks ago. I don’t on Friday evening. As I walked in I thought remember what was in it but it was great.” Just I heard Phil Levine say, “…Barry Esai a lot as I stopped feeling like the world’s stupidest lately. Gets my juices flowin’ know what I primate, he exclaimed, “Barry Esai! Oh man.” mean?”’ “(Something) Barry Esai?” Kyle I stomped off to my room. I don’t handle asked, and Robbie swatted him playfully on these situations well. Yes, I need hearing the shoulder. “(Something something) at Top aids – yet another step in the demoralizing of the Harbor… that cute bartender with the deterioration of the human body that makes nipple ring… Barry Esai!” helpless fools of us for most of our lives and “Who’s Barry Esai?” I asked. There was a ends in the grave. I looked at myself in the split second of silence, and then they all burst mirror and deliberately pulled my T-shirt up into humiliating laughter. “Barry Esai!” Phil so I could wallow in my shame. I stared for at Levine sang out. “Oh that’s hysterical I’ve got least half a minute and felt my mood sinking to tell Martin!” He was already speed dialing his further into the quicksand. cell phone. “It’s me get this Mr. Ed just walked “Snap out of it, Belly Boy,” I finally said in remember that hunky bartender at Top of the out loud and let my shirt fall back down. “Go Harbor yeah the one with the pecs and that drink back to the harbor and buy some Barry Esai.” he made me yeah well Ed just asked Halfway there I even started singing: “I feel ‘Who’s Barry Esai?!’” He laughed fatty and ratty and tatty – but I’m going to buy himself into a coughing jag. “Call me later,” me a big peppermint patty – I’m alive! I’m he gasped. “I want to try out my new gel dong alive! I’m alive!” on you heh heh heh in fact come over now but this time use the Fleet before you leave” and hung up. “Barry Esai!” he boomed and The Vodka Tonic had another coughing fit. The poor Thai kid 2 oz Absolut Berri Acai or any flavor pouted as he shook violently on Phil Levine’s you’d like, or plain but premium vodka muscled thighs. Tonic water I felt my face get hot. I know I’m hard of Fill a tumbler with ice, add the vodka hearing and sometimes get things wrong, but and pour in tonic to taste. Dry and this was out of control. “The bartender’s name Schweppes each make good tonics, but is Barry Esai? What’s so funny about that?” there’s a new guy on the block – an upscale This produced a whole new round of hilarity. brand called Q. Perfectly named, it’s also Kyle came to my rescue. “It’s not the extraordinarily good. Agave, no sugar; bartender’s name, Ed. It’s an Absolut flavor – authentic quinine, no artificial flavors. We’re Berri Acai.” I must have looked as confused here, drink Queer – get juiced with it.

Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 41 Deep Inside Hollywood

Cheyenne Jackson. Photo: Karl Simone

By Romeo San Vicente Patiently waiting for Anna It’s abs ahoy for ‘300: The Paquin Battle of Artemisia’ Anna Paquin’s career began with a bang when, for her first film role in the powerfully Remember when Sarah Silverman hosted moving drama, “The Piano,” she became the the MTV Movie Awards and noted that the title second youngest person to receive an Academy “300” was the answer to the question, “How Award. Now all grown up, the married, bisexual gay is this movie on a scale from one to ten?” co-star of the steamy HBO series “True Blood” Well, get ready for more sweaty Spartans hasn’t lost her affinity for heavy-duty drama, it’s and their digitally enhanced abs to grace the just that what might be her next great role has screen now that a sequel, “300: The Battle of been sitting in the editing bay for over five years. Artemisia,” has been set up at Warner Bros. It’s called “Margaret” and it’s a serious film from Like its predecessor, this one’s based on a director Kenneth Lonergan (“You Can Count graphic novel by Frank Miller, although the On Me”) about a teenager who believes she has name was changed from “Xerxes” since that been the cause of a fatal car accident and how her title was no doubt judged too difficult to spell determination to find the truth causes damaging on Fandango. Xerxes was played by Rodrigo repercussions all around her. The film also stars Santoro in “300” – although there’s no word yet Matt Damon and Mark Ruffalo and was due to as to whether or not he’ll reprise the role – and be in theaters years ago, when Paquin was young this sequel will chronicle that character’s rise enough to still play a teenager. Hopefully the final to near god-like power. The studio was still edits are coming soon and the currently tentative nailing down a director at press time, so don’t 2011 release date won’t roll into 2012. expect “The Battle of Artemisia” to break out until 2013 at the earliest. Have no fear, Vanity Smurf is Everything’s gone ‘Green’ for still here Cheyenne Jackson Right around the corner lies “The Smurfs,” the 3D extravaganza that will finally transplant Lest you think Cheyenne Jackson was the little blue (and beloved-for-decades) cartoon going to spend his entire summer hiatus from creatures into the real human world, where “30 Rock” waiting for the next crazy statement they’ll find adventure as well as new friends in to come out of Tracy Morgan’s mouth, the “Neil Patrick Harris” and “Glee”’s Jayma Mays. Broadway star and “Glee” villain has a new And gay adults with fond memories of the self- indie drama making the gay film festival absorbed character of “Vanity Smurf” might be rounds during these hot months. “The Green” wondering what will become of that now-very- tells the story of a New York gay couple – politically-incorrect little guy. See, Vanity was a schoolteacher Michael (Jason Butler Harner) male Smurf with a flower in his hat, narcissism in and chef Daniel (Jackson) – who relocate to his soul and a distinctly gay aura. And while he’s suburban Connecticut, only to discover how listed in the cast – to be voiced by “The Daily deeply the friendship and “tolerance” of their Show” regular Jon Oliver – there’s no advance neighbors run when Michael is accused of word on how the character’s old-fashioned, inappropriate conduct with one of his students. stereotypical personality traits will be dealt with With a strong supporting cast that include Julia in this latest Smurf tale. Safe bets are on the studio Ormond (as Michael’s lesbian lawyer), Illeana toning down the coded negatives, but to really find Douglas, Karen Young, and Bill Sage, “The out how much you’ll just have to lay down your Green” seems poised to pick up a distribution money put on those 3D glasses when August rolls deal following its run on the festival circuit, but around. Practice saying, “One for “The Smurfs,” you can take comfort in knowing that you’re please,” with a straight face if you need to. cooler than other people if you see it at one Romeo San Vicente is a fan of vanity in any form it of them first. takes. He can be reached care of this publication or at [email protected].

42 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 Between The Lines • July 21, 2011 43