Shirvell Ordered to Pay $4.5 Million in Damages Frenchie Davis Speaks Out on Bisexuality

Making A DIFFAerance Volunteer Michael Bartus WWW.PRIDESOURCE.COM AUG. 23, 2012 | VOL. 2034 | FREE 2 BTL | August 23, 2012 www.PrideSource.com JOIN THE CONVERSATION@

FALL PET GUIDE THEATER

Content at Your Fingertips Online Curtain Calls Check out Pridesource.com and find plenty As the French maid says, “it isn’t easy” to of online-only Pet Guide features and stories! juggle three fiances – but, oh, is it ever funny Find your closest LGBT-friendly animal in “Boeing- Boeing,” the latest production of shelters, veterinarians and pet suppliers too! Mason Street Warehouse. Choose “Pets” under the guide Don’t miss Curtain Calls online at section of www.Pridesource.com www.Pridesource.com/Section. html?=section=ae-theater Sign Up Online and Receive HEARD ON FACEBOOK LETTERS the BTL 2012 Voter Guide The Nov. 2012 elections are fast LAHR-PAC and other regional approaching. Here at Between state PACS. Sign up today and The Lines we are researching receive information about pro- the candidates who will be LGBT candidates at the local asking for your vote. The 2012 and national level. BTL Voters Guide will reflect Sign up at http://www. the work of BTL research along pridesource.com/ Armstrong vs. Shirvell What’s on Your Mind? with Equality Michigan PAC, ticketcontest.html?seq=210 Kristine Copeland: In my opinion, It’s a fair Got something on your mind? Think BTL’s SCAN QR CODE verdict and judgment. He shows no remorse missing a certain something? Let us know Email your op–eds to “Between The Lines or even understanding of his behavior. by sending us your letters and editorials. Who [email protected] Newspaper” Andrea Navar: Boo-yah! Karma bites back. knows, it might just get published! Join the conversation and Like Contact us at http://www. Sign up online to receive “Between The Lines Newspaper” pridesource.com/contact_us.html our E–Digest Follow us @YourBTL on Facebook

COVER STORY 9 Hungry4Equality: Week 3 PETS 30 Happenings 4 Making a DIFFAerance 11 REC graduates 20 interns 15 Michigan to be nation’s first no-kill state 11 Future funding of LGBT ministry REAR VIEW Photo: Crystal Proxmire 16 Fur Trading Company is the new pet 12 LGBT reactions to Ryan Pick connection 28 Puzzle NEWS OPINION 20 Upcoming Pet Events 29 Horoscopes 5 Armstrong’s harasser ordered to pay $4.5 6 BTL Editorial 32 Classifieds million in damages 7 Parting Glances LIFE 8 ALEC power 12 Creep of the Week 25 Frenchie Davis speaks out 33 Deep Inside Hollywood www.PrideSource.com August 23, 2012 | BTL 3 BRIEFS

JACKSON, MICH. City Commission Votes to Take Up Making a DIFFAerance Non-Discrimination Ordinance On Aug. 14, the Jackson City Commission voted to take up the issue of adopting an inclusive and equal non- MAC Volunteer, Michael Bartus Appointed by Gov. Snyder discrimination ordinance. Specifically the ordinance would ban discrimination of people based on a number of factors, including their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender to Serve Aging LGBT Population expression. In recent months, similar ordinances have BY CRYSTAL A. PROXMIRE I become widowed and finding a hospitable the organization,” Bartus has added MAC to passed in Flint, Mount Pleasant, and Muskegon. Last year place. It’s not a fear of getting older, but a the list of charities that has a place in his heart. voters in Traverse City upheld their city’s nondiscrimination ANN ARBOR – The first time Michael loss of control of the environment,” he said. Like many older adults in the gay community, ordinance. Bartus really stopped and paid attention to “There is a point where you cannot function Bartus has lost friends to the disease, which still A recent poll by Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research Michigan AIDS Coalition (MAC) was back in by yourself, even with care. I’ve always been is without a cure. MAC helps to educate people shows that 73 percent of likely voters in the 2012 election December when they brought Max Fisher in to about the dangers of unprotected support efforts to ban discrimination of LGBT people. The do a lunchtime presentation about his journey sex and offers testing, counseling, same poll showed that while the federal government, in AIDS activism. “I came to hear him speak, and other programs to assist Michigan and many other states do not provide such but I left very impressed with MAC, seeing all victims of HIV and AIDS. protections, 80 percent of respondents inaccurately the people here that cared and learning about I am honored DIFFA is the Design Industries believed such protections were already in place on a what MAC does,” Bartus said. “So I decided Foundation Fighting AIDS. Each federal level. to get involved.” to have been year they host a series of upscale “The evidence is overwhelming that voters believe LGBT The 65 year-old Ann Arbor-based activist “ fundraisers with immaculately- people deserve the same legal protections as any other is now serving on the host committee for appointed by designed themes to attract donations population under threat of discrimination,” said Roland DIFFA’s Dining by Design Dinner on Sept. to the cause of fighting AIDS. Leggett II, director of field organizing for Equality Michigan. 15. And he is also celebrating another activist Governor Snyder to The Detroit event will be held “While the anti-LGBT industry continues to fill their coffers accomplishment – a recent appointment by serve as a member Saturday, Sept. 15 and will include by telling their donors distorted versions of history and Gov. Rick Snyder to the Commission on “awe-inspiring tablescapes” that falsely claiming these are special rights, the reality is voters Services to the Aging. of the Michigan “will become interactive dining are tired of their lies and are ready for equal protection for Bartus had always been a financial supporter areas where guests – including all people in Michigan.” of charities and a hard-working advocate for Commission on Services to the Aging, Bravo’s Madison Hildebrand – will the aging, but after retirement in 2001 he has the state level decision-making body enjoy a gourmet dinner prepared more time to devote to causes that are important by Matt Prentice, A Culinary ANN ARBOR, MICH. to him, like AIDS prevention, Alzheimer’s that oversee the work of the Michigan Experience. The motivational OUTFest celebration returns to Braun Court support, and care for the aging. Drum Café will perform during “I am honored to have been appointed by Office of Services to the Aging. the event’s experiential auction that The 18th OUTFest returns to Ann Arbor’s history Governor Snyder to serve as a member of will feature 100 items, including Kerrytown District Saturday, Sept. 29 with a multiplicity the Michigan Commission on Services to the a breath-taking cruise on the of activities and entertainment for the LGBT and allied Aging, the state level decision-making body Zambezi Queen (in Africa). The community of Washtenaw. that oversee the work of the Michigan Office fortunate enough that I could always take care” Motor City’s own jazz crooner Ben Sharkey This annual celebration begins in the evening at Braun of Services to the Aging. The Commission of what I need, but as I look at services for the will also perform while couture fashions are Court, across from the Ann Arbor Farmer’s Market. This approves the funding for the 16 Area Agencies aging, I see that being able to pay the rent does on display.” year’s event will spill into both the Braun Court parking lot on Aging that then support a network of not guarantee that I will be safe or welcome.” There is also a Coctails by Design event as well as the block of N. Fourth Ave. between Catherine in-home care and nutrition services, among “I grew up in a neighborhood in Ann on Sept. 13 which will showcase 100 original St. and E. Kingsley. many other forms of assistance. In 2011, the Arbor that was largely older people,” Bartus works of art curated by ArtWorks Detroit, a “What is most vital about celebrations like OUTfest is Commission oversaw a budget of $93 million,” said. “My leanings were always in that kind team of professional artists who are dedicated that people are literally coming out into a community that he said. He represents the interest of older of environment. My parents were very much to the fight against HIV. Prominent Artists – already supports and affirms who they are,” said OUTFest adults from Livingston, Oakland, Macomb, engaged in giving back to the community. I including Thom Bohnert, Carl Demeulenaere, Committee Co-Chair Ashley Schwedt. Washtenaw, and St. Clair Counties. Prior to the remember being age four and selling Christmas Gerhardt Knodel, Yoko Ono, Bill Rauhauser, The celebration includes music, dancing, entertainers, appointment he served three years on the state wrapping paper for U of M scholarships and Clinton Snider, Russell Thayer and Vagner food (vendors and Braun Court restaurants), a beer tent, Advisory Council. my father would take me on calls for donations Whitehead – will have artwork featured the Grassroots stage with local musicians, speakers, In addition to this appointment he serves to the Community Chest, which was like a in thrilling live and silent auctions. Guests representatives of political campaigns, a children’s play on the LGBT Older Adult Coalition, which is community foundation.” will also enjoy scrumptious food prepared area, raffles and a NECTO-sponsored Dance Pavilion with actively working toward becoming a SAGE Bartus got his degree in Public Health and an by 25 of the hippest local restaurants, La DJ Mark Johnson. (Services and Advocacy for GLBT Eleders) undergrad in Psychology of Aging, and he set Crema Wines, and EFFEN® Vodka specialty Since it’s conception, JTCC’s OUTFest has been hosted Affiliate. The Coalition has held conferences out on a life of working on behalf of others. He cocktails. Innovative designer tablescapes and produced with the assistance “ and at times leadership with community elders to determine their previously served as director of development at and room schemes created by Michigan’s “ of \aut\Bar co-owners Martin Contreras and Keith Orr, needs. They have implemented a competency the Paraprofessional Healthcare Institute in New foremost interior designers will be on display, large supporters of the center. This year, OUTFest has training program for agencies that serve older York, as director of development for the Visiting including an installation created for La been organized by a number of JTCC volunteers working adults, to make sure they are familiar with Nurse Association Inc. in Oak Park, as director Crema by nationally renowned designer Marc in collaboration with the center’s board of directors. LGBT issues. They are also working towards of the Empowerment Zone Care Management Blackwell, and Lincoln’s installation designed OUTFest 2012 is 5 p.m. to midnight. This event is free creating a certification program, so that people program at the Detroit Area Agency on Aging by architectural giant, Rosetti. Detroit Flyhouse and open to the public, though a small fee is necessary for can know what hospitals, home care agencies, and as a long term care consultant for the and DJ PowdrBlu will perform. access to the celebration’s beer tent. For more information assisted living facilities, and other agencies are Michigan Office of Services to the Aging. He’s go to www.JimToyCenter.org or search Facebook for “Jim Tickets ($100 Cocktails By Design/Artworks LGBT open and affirming. also done work with the Peace Corps and United Toy Community Center”. Bartus is nearing old age, and even though Way, among other nonprofits. Detroit Auction and $250 Dining By Design Volunteers are still needed to help with setup, he has always been financially successful, the The upcoming event, DIFFA’s Dining by Detroit) are available by clicking on the Events decorating, check-in, etc. To sign up to volunteer, contact thought of not knowing which care providers Design Gala Dinner is another way that Bartus tab at www.michiganaidcoalition.org. For more Ashley Schwedt at [email protected]. are affirming or not is unsettling. “The thing is using his expertise and care to help others. information, contact Shanthi Sivanandham at that bothers me the most is relocation should Saying that he was “impressed by the work of 248-545-1435, Ext. 105

4 BTL | August 23, 2012 www.PrideSource.com Armstrong’s Harasser Ordered to Pay $4.5 Million in Damages BY BENJAMIN JENKINS have Armstrong fired from an internship. Nearly a year and a half later, the jury awarded A U.S. District Court jury decided Thursday Armstrong with a $4.5 million civil settlement. evening that former Michigan Assistant Attorney Gordon says the jury was made up of a General Andrew Shirvell must pay $4.5 million diverse group of people from different ethnic to gay student leader at the University of and religious backgrounds, but that they were Michigan Chris Armstrong for having defamed of a similar mindset: This was defamation, and harassed him online and on campus. unprotected by freedom of speech. Shirvell maintained a blog titled “Chris Currently unemployed, Shirvell told the Armstrong Watch,” where he accused Armstrong Associated Press after the ruling, “There’s no of pushing a “radical way I could possibly homosexual agenda” ever pay such a as well as a “viciously judgment.” militant homosexual “I’m just activist” who “mocked incredibly humbled Christians.” by what happened After being identified today,” Armstrong as an anti-gay heckler told The Associated (with a sign reading Press. “This is truly “Chris Armstrong = a victory, not just for Racist LIAR,”) at a myself, but for a lot of rally in support of other kids out there.” the Ann Arbor Civic When asked if Theatre’s production of she predicts Shirvell “The Laramie Project,” will appeal, Gordon Shirvell and his blog replied, “Oh yes. received national media (Shirvell) is out there attention in May 2010. – thinking he is right Shirvell defended his – so yes he will be actions, claiming he was appealing and no, he acting within his First Chris Armstrong was willing to drop the lawsuit, which will not be winning. Amendment rights, even asked for $25,000, if Andrew Shirvell would apologize. For somebody to The jury found in Armstrong’s favor last week in the agreeing to an interview amount of $4.5 million. BTL file photo. think that literally with Anderson Cooper anything you say is that September. protected under the As media attention escalated and Shirvell First Amendment – I think somebody missed a refused to accept culpability, Armstrong decided couple of classes in law school.” it was necessary to get a lawyer. He hired trial If Armstrong’s lawsuit continues to be appealed, lawyer and the mother of two classmates of it is possible rulings in his favor may set a Armstrong’s, Deborah L. Gordon. She has precedent for future online bullying cases in specialized in employment and civil rights law for Michigan; however, Gordon explains that, “for over 30 years and was eager to assist Armstrong such a groundbreaking ruling, this really is an old- when she heard of Shirvell’s harassment. fashioned law in a way. Defamation is extremely “Michigan has no laws protecting LGBT old, but in this new cyber world we live in, things people in employment and discrimination, so are happening differently and a message can be this was the first case of this nature that I had broadcast across the world. Classically daily handled,” explains Gordon. “But the minute I newspapers would carefully discern free speech heard of Shirvell’s behavior I decided ‘this is from defamation, but with the blogosphere in place not going to happen. This won’t stand.’” there are no checks and balances.” Attorney General Mike Cox fired Shirvell in Gordon continued, “I just have to say: I think November 2010 claiming Shirvell used state the University of Michigan was phenomenal resources in his campaign against Armstrong and and I think they had a wonderfully supportive lied to investigators during a disciplinary hearing. network and did their very best to help Chris. In April 2011, Armstrong and Gordon filed So he’s come out of this okay. But think of the a lawsuit against Shirvell, seeking damages for kids that maybe didn’t come from a place where defamation of character and emotional distress. their school or family are supportive. It could’ve Armstrong said Shirvell had even followed him, been a much more unfortunate result. showed up at his home and contacted current “After everything that he has been through, I and future employers, including at one point think this ruling has really restored Chris’ faith calling Nancy Pelosi’s office in an attempt to in people.” www.PrideSource.com August 23, 2012 | BTL 5 BTL Editorial: Politics Gets Simple Vol. 2034 • Issue 778 August 23, 2012 affront to all women and any thinking in 2007, just five minutes earlier he OPINION BY BTL STAFF PUBLISHERS person. Even though Ryan and the rest of voted to use a parliamentary maneuver to Susan Horowitz & Jan Stevenson the Republican establishment is running kill the bill, prompting openly gay Rep. f you have a TV set you have most from Aikn’s remarks, the record is clear. Barney Frank (D-Mass.) to blast him as EDITORIAL likely been subjected to the barrage A Romney/Ryan administration would disingenuous. The bill ultimately died. of political ads this summer. It is so Editor in Chief I eviscerate a woman’s right to choose, Gay Republican groups like the Log Susan Horowitz easy to tune them out and begin thinking [email protected] as would any Supreme Court justices Cabin Republicans and GOProud have that Romney/Ryan and the rest of the selected by them. used Ryan’s one procedural vote in Entertainment Editor Republicans are about the same as Obama/ Chris Azzopardi On LGBT employment issues, Romney 2007 as proof that the Republicans are Biden and the Democrats. That old adage [email protected] told the Log Cabin Republicans in 1994 closeted supporters of LGBT rights. These that there is “really no difference between Associate Editor that he would sponsor ENDA if elected groups have twisted themselves into Benjamin Jenkins the parties and all politicians are alike” to the U.S. Senate. Then in 2006 he told rhetorical pretzels to endorse the Romney/ [email protected] kicking in. But as we approach two National Journal that ENDA would “open Ryan ticket. We could waste much Arts & Theater Editor weeks of nonstop political coverage of space and ink on their Donald V. Calamia, the two major parties’ conventions – the [email protected] These Gay Republican groups have twisted delusional positions, Republicans will gather in Tampa starting but instead we ask you, CREATIVE Aug. 27 and the Democrats in Charlotte themselves into rhetorical pretzels to endorse our readers, to use your Art Director the following week – the stark differences David Ano, [email protected] the Romney/Ryan ticket. We could waste much common sense. The between the parties and their candidates Democrats and the Webmaster & MIS Director has never been more clear – especially on space and ink on their delusional positions, Kevin Bryant, [email protected] Obama/Biden ticket LGBT issues. but instead we ask you, our readers, to use stand for equality Production Assistant On same-sex marriage for instance, Benjamin Jenkins, [email protected] for LGBT people. the Democrats made history a few weeks your common sense. The Democrats and The Republicans and Contributing Writers ago here in Detroit when the platform Charles Alexander, Michelle E. Brown, the Obama/Biden ticket stand for equality for Romney/Ryan simply committee approved same-sex marriage Dana Casadei, Abby Dees, Jack Fertig, do not. The choice is Todd Heywood, Howard Israel, Lisa Keen, equality as a goal of the Democratic LGBT people. The Republicans and Romney/ Richard Labonte, Michael H. Margolin, very simple. Party, following President Obama’s Jenn McKee, Jason Michael, Kate Opalewski, Ryan simply do not. The choice is very simple. And for those who Anthony Paull, Andrea Poteet, Crystal Proxmire, announcement of his personal support in may still be confused John Quinn, Eric W. Rader, Bridgette M. Redman, May. In contrast, presumptive Republican Leslie Robinson, Romeo San Vincente, a litigation floodgate and unfairly penalize remember that Mitt Romney attended Gwendolyn Ann Smith, Jody Valley, nominee Mitt Romney believes in employers at the hands of activist judges.” Cranbrook Academy right here in greater D’Anne Witkowski, Dan Woog amending the U.S. Constitution to ban He dismissed ENDA, saying, “I don’t see Detroit where he terrorized a fellow gay Cartoonists same-sex marriage, and his choice of the need for new or special legislation.” student. Do you really want a bully in the Paul Berg, Dave Brousseau, Joan Hilty running mate, Paul Ryan, twice voted in Although Ryan voted in favor of ENDA White House? Contributing Photographers support of the failed Federal Marriage Andrew Potter Amendment, in 2004 and 2006. ADVERTISING & SALES With Ryan’s selection last week, Director of Sales the Republican Party is suffering a Jan Stevenson, [email protected] widening credibility gap with LGBT Sales Representatives voters, women and just about any Ed Bohach, [email protected] minority group except that of the very Ann Cox, [email protected] rich. Ryan has voted to ban adoption National Advertising Representative Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 by gay couples and he voted against the repeal of the military’s “Don’t Business Office Diane Smith, [email protected] Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. He also voted Nancy Blankenship against the Matthew Shepard and James Circulation & Distribution Byrd, Jr, Hate Crimes Prevention Act Diane Smith in 2009. Pride Source Media Group Last year, Ryan joined with Rep. 11920 Farmington Road Todd Akin (R-Missouri) as two of Livonia, Michigan 48150 Phone 734.293.7200 • Fax 734.293.7201 the original co-sponsors of the “No www.pridesource.com Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act,” Our rate cards are available online a bill which, among other things, All material appearing in Between The Lines is protected by federal introduced the country to the bizarre copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without term “forcible rape.” Then just this the permission of the publishers. Between The Lines is supported by many fine advertisers, but we cannot accept responsibility for week, now U.S. Senate candidate claims made by our advertisers, nor can we accept responsibility Akin created a political firestorm by for materials provided by advertisers or their agents. Copyright 2012 Pride Source Media Group, LLC saying, “If it’s a legitimate rape, the female body has ways to try to shut that whole thing down,” an outrageous

6 BTL | August 23, 2012 www.PrideSource.com Parting Glances

OPINION BY CHARLES ALEXANDER

Why I’m gay, no doubt. here are experiences that are alien to most people: walking on the moon, winning the $337 million Power Ball lottery, Tweighing 400 pounds, having implant boobs. Because my life tends to be introspective, devoid of untoward kink, I’m curious what it’s like to experience the unusual, as long as it doesn’t ultimately involve attending 12- step codependency meetings. A quick-read paperback, “Esquire Presents: What It Feels Like” (Three Rivers Press) is a collection of accounts of first- hand experiences, physical exceptions, trauma survivals. After reading these fascinating anecdotes, I got to thinking about my own long-ago, life-threatening cliffhanger that I’d like to boast about because of its genuinely heroic content. It happened when I was 13. But first some “Feels Like” samplings to set the mood. GRIZZLY ATTACK: “She grabs my left arm, tearing the muscles and tendons, and tosses me in the air. Then she attacks my head as I’m airborne. All I can see is her open mouth. Her teeth are gashing my scalp and ear. I can hear her fangs grinding on my skull. I think, the next bite will kill me.” TORNADO TERROR: “The feel of a twister approaching is exactly the feel of a freight train approaching - that low, ever-louder howl and shuddering ground. I had gone through the trailer wall, been thrown 30 feet up into the tree, and then dropped to the ground, concussed and black and blue.” G-SPOT GOOD FEEL: “I can have sex and orgasm. It’s functional in that way. The orgasms are different, though. The male has this orgasm and that’s basically it. For a female, it’s more of an ongoing thing during the course of intercourse, more like a whole-body experience. As opposed to men - men have sex like dogs.” (Arf!) COMPULSIVE DISORDER: “Washing my hair would take an hour. Washing the front of my forehead, I would scrub it 60 times; it could never be 61. If I did anything an odd number, I’d have to do it all over again, despite how tired I might feel. The pressure to do it was constant and overwhelming. Like a voice saying, ‘Do not stop.’ Like a locomotive out of control.” Lastly, ME AS HOSTAGE, at Samhat Market, where I deliver groceries: Two guys walk up to the counter, pretend to look at smokes. One thug pulls a gun, yells at grocer Jimmy, “Your money, fast! I’d hate like hell to shoot the kid.” Jimmy fumbles. I’m too stunned to blink. Grocer Moses, eating in the back, tunes in, grabs a gun, fires warning shots, yells Arabic obscenities, and I duck behind a stack of Maxwell House coffee cans. Crooks scatter. Cops arrive. Next day I tell anybody who’ll listen: I wasn’t a bit scared (just peed my pants a little). Oh, yes: BOOBS: “My implants aren’t hard. They don’t feel like basketballs. It’s more like water balloons that aren’t completely full. When you touch them you can feel the liquid Visit our website! inside, too, which I guess is weird.” http://www.pridesource.com In passing, but probably less weird: Bird seed-filled balloons work for enterprising (and cheap) drag queens. Add our fan page! Arf! and chirp! Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” Follow us! [email protected] @YourBTL www.PrideSource.com August 23, 2012 | BTL 7 BRIEFS WASHINGTON DC ALEC Power: How Corporations GOP Appears Poised to Codify Extremist Values in 2012 Pplatform Despite the fact that a majority of Americans – Are Taking Over Government including increasing numbers within the GOP – support marriage equality, reports indicate that the Republican 2012 platform will not only reject marriage equality, but will push for a federal constitutional amendment banning One Policy at a Time committed gay and lesbian couples from marrying and stripping rights from legally married same-sex couples; call for a vigorous defense of the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA); and continue to imply BY CRYSTAL A. PROXMIRE works infrastructure in competition against that, by their very nature, LGBT families are somehow private enterprise. The report states that “such less worthy of the same dignity and respect as other A new study details the way ALEC, the legislation forces more tax dollars to be spent on American families. American Legislative Exchange Council, is funding private corporations at public expense.” “The GOP’s proposed platform is blatantly out-of-step wining and dining conservative legislators Agema has six pages in the report, including with not only the majority of our nation, but even with while handing them model legislation to cut- HB 5221 which requires proof of citizenship to the rank and file of the Republican Party itself,” said HRC and-paste into their bills. The report, ALEC in President Chad Griffin. “The party is poised to send a Michigan, was released last week by Progress Two of the Representatives devastating message to LGBT youth – that they and the Michigan and it looks at the 24-plus members of families they aspire to one day build are not worthy of the highly influential nonprofit and the 20-plus listed are also currently the same protections as everyone else.” bills that have been introduced in Michigan being highlighted in the Recent polling consistently indicates that a majority which have ALEC-like roots. ALEC also has of Americans support marriage equality. Nationally, a been influential in pushing for corporate-friendly Hungry4Equality movement recent CNN/ORC International poll shows 54 percent of legislation all across the country, with Wisconsin Americans support marriage equality. And nearly half of and Arizona being prime examples. in the “Equality Rights Hall all Republicans under the age of 35 support marriage The legislation aims at the end of labor of Shame,” Tom McMillin equality, according to a May NBC News/WSJ poll. rights. The financial starvation of local and state “The draft language extols the virtues of marriage governments as a way to force consolidation (R-Rochester Hills) and Dave which makes it all the more counterintuitive that it also and privatization. Lessened environmental calls for excluding an entire group of Americans from regulations. Less accountability for corporate Agema (R- Grandville). the institution,” said Griffin. “Their call for respect and liability. Corporate control of schools, prisons dignity for all Americans should be matched with a and other institutions without public input register to vote, HB 4409 which sets a 48-month commitment to making all families strong.” and oversight. Dangerous gun laws. Barriers limit on welfare, and HB 4305 which requires The platform language appears to bear more to voting. Campaign finance laws that give state law enforcement agencies to verify resemblance to the National Organization for Marriage’s unlimited power to corporate spending. immigration status of all adults they stop, arrest “marriage vow” than it does to the values held by Zack Pohl, executive director of Progress or detain. It requires state agencies to verify mainstream Americans. Like the GOP platform, that Michigan, explained the way ALEC works, immigration status for applications for food vow – which Mitt Romney signed – requires candidates calling it a “secret bill mill,” and stating that elected assistance, and it would require law enforcement pursue a federal marriage amendment and vigorously officials get to “travel to a big glitzy conference to agents to transfer undocumented people to the defend DOMA. meet behind closed doors.” There they are given custody of Federal officials. HB 5522, which did - HRC Press Release model bills that the organization, made up of the not pass, would have eliminated the minimum world’s most powerful corporations, would like wage and HB 4454 would limit unions rights to to see implemented. At ALEC’s conferences and organize and collectively bargain. other events, corporate members and legislators The danger isn’t just the bills themselves. CHARLOTTE, N.C. their tax-payer funded office account. Politicians mingle, campaign contributions are given by Investigations into ALEC reveal hundreds of Campus Pride: UofM makes first-ever national not listed in the report could still be members corporations to the legislators, and legislators model bills designed to move America in a without it being public record if they paid for trans-friendly college list get the model bills to bring back to their states more conservative, corporate-ruled direction, their memberships out of personal funds. to introduce. through an ever-growing machine to get their Campus Pride, the nation’s leading educational Apart from a detailed 2011 series by The Nation Researchers were about to identify 24 bills passed. Legislators all over the country organization for student leaders and campus programs and the release of leaked ALEC documents that Michigan lawmakers, all Republican, who are are pushing for the same conservative bills. working to create a safe college environment for LGBT are on the ALEC Exposed website, not much ALEC members. Two of the Representatives According to ALECExposed.org, “ALEC boasts students, announced the first-ever national “Top 10 List of public attention was given to the powerful listed are also currently being highlighted that it has over 1,000 of these bills introduced Trans-Friendly Colleges & Universities” on Aug. 15. nonprofit which claims not to be involved in in the Hungry4Equality movement in the by legislative members every year, with one in The list is the result of a partnership with The Advocate lobbying. But the April 2012 shooting death of “Equality Rights Hall of Shame,” Tom every five of them enacted into law.” and annual data compiled since 2007 in the Campus Trayvon Martin by a neighborhood watchman McMillin (R-Rochester Hills) and Dave “The public does not want our public Pride Index, which takes an in-depth look at LGBT-friendly brought attention to Florida’s “Stand Your Agema (R- Grandville). officials to practice their cut-and-paste skills policies, programs and practices. Ground Law,” and eventually to ALEC, which The list of bills McMillin has introduced takes to introduce bad legislation,” Pohl said. He The campuses included in Campus Pride’s list created the bill. Over thirty corporations cut ties up nearly three pages in the ALEC Michigan also expressed dismay at those who support include (alphabetically): Ithaca College; New York with ALEC or “temporarily suspended” their report. Among them was HR277, which urged this practice, saying it was “hardly what the University; Princeton University; University of California, membership in the group, including Coca-Cola, the Governor to withdraw Michigan from founding fathers intended.” Los Angeles; University of California, Riverside; University Pepsi, Walmart and GM. Pohl is calling on other the Midwestern Greenhouse Gas Reduction There are over 2,000 elected officials who of Massachusetts, Amherst; University of Michigan, Ann companies to join in the un-joining, and for Accord (which did not pass), anti-union bills are members of ALEC, and over 300 large Arbor; University of Oregon; University of Pennsylvania; politicians to give up their membership as well. and University of Vermont. HB5025 (would require annual consent to have corporations including AT&T, AOL, Pfizer, For more information, go to CampusPrideBlog.org. union dues deducted from payroll checks), and UPS, FedEx, GE, Proctor and Gamble, American Learn more about ALEC Exposed at www. HB5024 (limitations on picketing). HB 4453 Express, Exxon Mobil, Koch Companies, Enron, alecexposed.org. For the list of companies who are FrioLay, Phillip Morris, RJ Reynolds, and State Extended briefs are available online at: would prohibit government agencies from part of ALEC go towww.sourcewatch.orgindex. engaging in commercial activity that involves Farm Insurance. Of the elected officials, some >> www.PrideSource.com php?title=ALEC_Corporations. the construction or rehabilitation of public paid for their membership using money from

8 BTL | August 23, 2012 www.PrideSource.com Hungry4Equality: Week 3 www.Hungry4Equality.com Day 18

It astonishes Day 15 We must be “me that people “taken seriously can stand by and as a part of our support people like communities. We Tom McMillin. These need more gay people are people who have to come out and make gone entirely out of our voices heard. I their way to make sure they are extra good want to be heard and at hating other people. Michigan can’t listened to and be accepted. You don’t have afford to keep these hateful legislators in to like me, but give me my rights! office anymore. It’s now more important than ever to get educated and vote! - Carolun” Simmons - Megh Hollowell” Day 19 Day 16 People like I support “Janice Daniels and Tom “Hungry4Equality McMillin are supposed because I believe to be representing their it’s time to expose constituent bases in the people behind the communities they the hateful live, yet they continue to policies creating use their power to manipulate the legislation a hostile environment for my to their advantage - shameful. family and friends. - Laura Portrey - Johnny Jenkins ” ” Day 20

As a straight Day 17 The arrogance ally, it’s important to of the Michigan “ “ me to be visible about legislature moved what equality actually me to participate. means to me. It’s easy It cost taxpayers enough to say you support equality, but more money when what are you actually doing about it? their representatives waste time trying to - Jimmy Wright take rights away from lgbt people. It is ” wrong that representatives like McMillin Day 21 If change is going are paid to be bigots. Representatives to happen in Michigan, should use all of their time and “ it’s going to take all money to improve this economy for of us. The people on everyone instead of discriminating the Hall of Shame against the lgbt community. have already shown - Alicia Skillman us they can throw ” their weight around with hateful legislation. It’s about time The public can visit the Equality Hall of Shame that people who believe in equal rights and the strikers at Affirmations in Ferndale. People start standing up for them! who want to strike can sign up by contacting Megh Hollowell at Affirmations at 248-398-7105. ”- Justin Vickers www.PrideSource.com August 23, 2012 | BTL 9 10 BTL | August 23, 2012 www.PrideSource.com Ruth Ellis Graduates 20 Interns Historic Gathering to BY CRYSTAL A. PROXMIRE Tackle ‘Sex and Justice’

DETROIT – For the second year in a row Ruth Ellis Center gave LGBT International Meeting to Address youth the opportunity to work as interns for six weeks out of the summer. The Criminalization, Punishment of Sex internship program is a partnership between Growing Detroit’s Young Talent (funded by DTE),Youth Employment Solutions, ANN ARBOR – The U of M’s Institute for Research University of Michigan School of Public on Women and Gender will host a conference on “Sex and Health (funded by MAC). The program Justice,” Oct. 4-6. The international conference will examine lets youth learn the inner workings of the and critique ongoing domestic and international efforts to nonprofit and lets them try their hand at criminalize and punish sex. many positions, such as promoting the A wide array of trailblazing activists, legal experts, and center, doing peer outreach, and day to day scholars from the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, and stuff like answering phones and helping Cameroon who argue for policy reform on a diverse array people who visit the center. They also work of issues will gather for the first time during this three-day REC Graduates smile for the camera. BTL photo: Crystal Proxmire with businesspeople from participating historic meeting. companies to learn how to get ahead in Conference organizer Trevor Hoppe says he organized the One of those youth is Toni Williams, internship,” he said. business, and work on leadership training event because “hundreds of thousands of people around the who opened up by sharing a “Where I DeJuan LeBlanc was grateful for the for the youth. world have been locked up, beaten, or killed for having sex. came from” poem with the group. “I am training he received. “I would like to say “The Ruth Ellis Center Summer These issues haven’t yet received the attention they deserve. from someone telling me I am not worth thank you all so much because the LGBTQ Internship Program is to earn an income Victims and their advocates have been bullied into silence for living. I am from someone in an abusive community has a very very hard time. We while building relationships, experiencing too long, fearing for our jobs and in some cases our lives. This relationship.” Williams shared plans for get criticized. We get ridiculed about every new things and spending time in a positive conference will shatter that silence.” the future, stating, “My plans are five years single thing. So for you all to come and help environment,” said youth who made a You Among the numerous issues that will be discussed is from now is to have my bachelors or my us and be safe and feel comfortable around Tube video about their experience. “To the increasing use of criminal law both in the U.S. and masters for child care development and us, that was a blessing.” internationally to punish HIV-positive people. In 34 U.S. become more prepared to find, apply for business.” and keep job by improving understanding Learn more about Ruth Ellis Center at www. states it is a crime for HIV-positive people to have sex without Tarrik Higgins also took part. “The disclosing their infection, whether or not they put their partners of professionalism and expectations for the most important thing I learned is showing ruthelliscenter.org. Visit pridesource.com to workplace environment.” at risk. HIV is not transmitted in most cases, prompting leaders up on time and bringing my best to the see a video of this event. such as U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA) to call for reform. The increasing use of public sex offender registries, which have grown to include over 750,000 Americans in recent years, will also be discussed. George Mason University Prof. Roger Lancaster notes that many of those forced to register Future Funding of LGBT Ministry are nonviolent, first-time offenders. Like a growing number of policy experts, he believes these registries need to be reformed. “Public registry requirements create a class of unemployable and unhouseable pariahs,” he said. Uncertain at United Methodist Many of those who bear the brunt of these policies are poor and black, argues Kenyon Farrow of the Praxis Project. Farrow BY CRYSTAL PROXMIRE Jonte’s only hope right now, apart from and 2012 proposals to change the language suggests that race and racism are the most pressing issues facing some new support, is a potential Arcus were heard, but rejected. advocates of policy reform. “What kind of man or woman you DETROIT – For the past year George Foundation grant that he will find out about “The problem is that ours is a global are; what kind of gay, lesbian, or transgender person you are; Jonte has been running the United Methodist in the spring. conference,” Jonte said. “Churches from and how the state responds to you, largely is still a matter of LGBT Ministry, whose mission is to unite “I’m not sure what happens if we don’t the African continent and some from race,” Farrow said. congregations in the region in support of get the money from Arcus,” he said. Europe are growing while we (American International efforts to punish sex will also be highlighted. full inclusion. Though progress has been Since January 2011, the LGBT Ministry Churches) are declining in membership. Cameroonian Alice N’Kom will discuss her efforts to fight made, Jonte says funding for the mission accomplished several things. First Jonte Thus they have more representation and charges brought against gay men in her country who are is at risk. complied a resource library, then he met they tend to be more homophobic. accused of being homosexual, including a recent case in “This work was originally funded by a with leaders from 44 churches, 14 percent In addition to UMC’s efforts, religions which a gay man was convicted for sending text messages to very nice grant from the Arcus Foundation of which were predominantly African across the board are opening up to inclusion, an acquaintance. which ended in 2011,” Jonte said. “In the American. There was a panel discussion of though some more than enthusiastically Those punished under unfair sex policies will also attend meantime I managed to get $10,000 stop- 20 PFLAG parents and also a 14-member than others. the conference to share their experiences. Melissa Petro was gap money to start 2012, but that money advisory committee that met quarterly. “We are losing numbers in the 18-35 fired from her job as a NYC schoolteacher when she revealed ran out some time ago. A $3,600 emergency Of the 44 churches, 28 agreed to be more age range. They have stopped going to in an online essay that she had engaged in sex work when she fund, mainly through a Buck Dinner grant, welcoming and affirming, 10 started church all together or they have moved on was younger. “My speech should have been Constitutionally is also nearly gone. actively using inclusive language in their to denominations that are more open and protected and had I the resources to argue my case it would “For about three months I have been paid liturgy and worship, and six wrote formal affirming,” noted Jonte. have been,” she said. by the church, but there is no line item for welcoming statements. it. It’s not in their budget, but they believe However, a great obstacle stands in the Jonte and UMC are part of the Inclusive in the work I’m doing,” said Jonte. way of inclusion. Justice, a state-wide faith-based coalition For a list of speakers and details on how to register for free online, The LGBT Ministry has been operating In 1972 the UMC General Conference which is inclusive of all traditions that visit www.sexandjustice2012.com. All events will take place out of Central United Methodist in Detroit, added a very damning phrase to its doctrine advocates for LGBT acceptance in religious on the fourth floor of the Rackham Graduate School, 915 East and without grant money to support the stating, “The practice of homosexuality is communities. To find out more about Washington. The event is hosted by the U-M Institute for Research $100,000 a year program, which included incompatible with Christian teaching.” Inclusive Justice, go to http://inclusive- on Women and Gender. Jonte’s salary and travel expenses, the Jonte explained that momentum is justice-together-in-faith.org. church is picking up the costs. building for inclusion in the church. In 2008 www.PrideSource.com August 23, 2012 | BTL 11 Creep of the Week OPINION BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI

William Owens an we just get one thing clear? If you’re black and Christian then the thought of Csame-sex couples makes you puke and if it doesn’t then you are a “Judas” and/or not really black and/or not really Christian. Barack Obama, that means you. At least it does to William Owens, the leader of the Coalition of African-American Pastors. Owens, who according to a recent Huffington Post article lied about his involvement in the Civil Rights Movement, is pretty pissed with Obama because of the whole marriage equality issue. In an Aug. 15 interview with right-wing radio darling Janet Mefferd, Owens lamented that Obama had basically flipped off African Americans by not telling gay people to go to hell. Like a real Christian would, obviously. “He’ll take up the cause of the Latinos, he’ll take up the cause of the homosexuals, but it’s like the African Americans don’t exist,” Owens lamented, pointing out that Obama likes everyone except for black people which I guess means he’s racist against himself. “And he said, ‘I’m not the president of the African Americans, I’m the president of America.’ AP photo: Candidate Mitt Romney watches his VP pick, Paul Ryan on the campaign trail last week. What if the white leaders who were in office when the civil rights bill had passed, what if they had said that, ‘We’re the politicians for the white community’? We wouldn’t have gotten a right to vote, we wouldn’t have gotten the rights we enjoy today.” “How can a man and a man be a parent LGBT reactions to Ryan Pick to a child? By their nature, they cannot. BY CHUCK COLBERT Right away political commentators viewed the Romney-Ryan ticket as How can a woman and a woman?” The dog days of summer brought a strategic shift for the GOP - away Sharp contrast the 2012 presidential race into sharper from its emphasis on what Republicans For LGBT voters with full equality Got that? Because Obama said that he was a president for all Americans, focus, when on Aug. 11, presumptive call President Barack Obama’s on their minds, moreover, the difference not just the black ones, it’s the same thing as a white politician saying he or Republican Party nominee Mitt Romney failed economic polices to a focus between pro-gay Obama-Biden and she is only a leader for white Americans and if a white version of Obama announced that his choice for running on contrasting views on the role of anti-gay Romney-Ryan could not be had been in charge nearly five decades ago then forget about civil rights. mate would be Representative Paul government and differing visions for any sharper or more starkly contrasting. If Owens’s logic doesn’t hurt your brain then you don’t have one. Though Ryan, a seven-term congressman from the country’s future. Still, Log Cabin Republicans and I would like to point out that if we follow this logic then we can definitely Wisconsin’s 1st Congressional District. At the heart of the difference for the GOProud, two Republican partisan forget about the black version of Obama ever becoming president, which LGBT politicos were quick to praise GOP are bedrock conservative principles, national organizations, voiced would make Owens pretty happy since he has vowed that he and the CAAP or criticize the pick, depending on their which Ryan’s selection underscores. immediate support for the Republican are going “to take him on even more” now that Obama loves the gays political leanings. After all, the 42-year-old Ryan, a ticket. (and, remember, “loves the gays” is synonymous with “hates the blacks”). Shortly after 9 a.m. Eastern time, Roman Catholic, is best known for “The selection of Paul Ryan is a bold When Mefferd remarks that gay activists seem to “lack of fear of God” Romney introduced Ryan to an both economic and philosophical and inspired pick,” Jimmy LaSalvia, Owens concurs. enthusiastic gathering in Norfolk, conservatism. As chairman of the House GOProud’s executive director, said “I would say that’s the case,” he says. “It’s like waving your thing in Virginia, in front of the American flag- Budget Committee, for example, Ryan in a statement. “Paul Ryan has been God’s face and saying, ‘You don’t matter.’ That’s exactly what I think.” draped Navy ship USS Wisconsin, is the chief architect of the 100-page the architect of policies that would Okay, wait, supporting gay rights is like waving your penis in God’s with music from the motion picture “The Path to Prosperity: A Blueprint benefit all Americans, especially gay face? Is that what he means by “thing”? Because if you ask the majority Air Force One preceding the for American Renewal,” an economic Americans.” of Americans, gay or straight, what “waving your thing” means, they’re announcement and Kid Rock music plan that aims to cut federal government LaSalvia added, “Paul Ryan is one going to think penis. following immediately afterwards. spending, prevent tax increases, shrink of the few political leaders anywhere in And why is this marriage business such a BFD to Owens? Because “Mitt Romney is a leader with the the deficit, reduce debt, and shrivel the the country willing to tell the American civilization and family and God and blah blah blah… And, of course, for the skills, the background and the character size of government to 20 percent of people the truth about the unprecedented children. Because Owens cannot wrap his brain around same-sex parents. that our country needs at a crucial the economy. At the same time, Ryan’s budget crisis we are facing, and - more Owens says, “How can a man and a man be a parent to a child? By their time in its history,” Ryan said in brief blueprint calls for beefing up national importantly - willing to put forward nature, they cannot. How can a woman and a woman? My little boy takes remarks that were broadcast live on security and the defense budget. bold plans to put this country back on both of us, he takes the love and tenderness of a mother and he takes the national television. Ryan also has called for repeal of the road to fiscal solvency.” love and whatever the dad gives he needs that, too. So to do different is “Following four years of failed the signature piece of Democratic Even before Ryan’s selection disloyal, it’s not honorable to the child. We cannot say a marriage is right leadership, the hopes of our country, legislation, the president’s Affordable GOProud had endorsed Romney’s between the same sex.” which have inspired the world, are Care Act, along with a proposal candidacy. This is coming from a guy who has claimed that “Homosexuality growing dim; and they need someone to downscale Medicare for future Equally upbeat and supportive, Log spreads because somebody (sexually)abused children” and said there’s no to revive them. Governor Romney is the generations. Cabin Republicans gave its nod to Ryan. difference between a same-sex couple marrying and “a man deciding he man for this moment; and he and I share Back in April, the House of “Congressman Paul Ryan is a strong wants to have sex with a dog.” Yeah, this guy is all about being honorable. one commitment: we will restore the Representatives passed Ryan’s budget choice for vice president, and his If he despises Obama, I’ll take that as a sign that the president is doing dreams and greatness of this country,” plan by a vote of 235-195, with only addition to the GOP ticket will help something right. Ryan added. four Republicans voting against it. Republican candidates up and down the

12 BTL | August 23, 2012 www.PrideSource.com Mario Guerrero, president of Stonewall Democrats of Greater Sacramento, an His record includes votes against the repeal LGBT partisan group, affiliated with of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ and against a fully-inclusive National Stonewall Democrats, when told “ of Gorton’s remarks. hate crimes bill - both of which were signed into Still, Ryan can try “to smother us in with silence when it comes to the media, law by President Obama. As a so-called deficit hawk, but the ‘smothering silence’ is not the case Congressman Ryan has been in lockstep with Speaker with his voting record,” Guerrero added over the phone. [John] Boehner’s legal defense of DOMA... “I don’t know how anyone can make the case for LGBT voters” to back Romney- Ryan, said Guerrero. - Drew Hammill, press secretary to House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi “If you are not in the 1 percent,” said ” Gorton, “it’s a hard argument to make. ballot,” said R. Clarke Cooper, Log Cabin’s Tsongas added. “His views opposing same- Romney-Ryan would benefit millionaires.” executive director. sex rights, along with his budget that would Log Cabin Republicans, nonetheless, “As chairman of the House Budget undermine important domestic programs, persevere. In an Aug. 13 Daily Caller column, Committee and author of Republican ‘Path would steer this country away from the entitled “How Romney-Ryan Can Reach to Prosperity’ that provided the blueprint values of tolerance and equality that I have Gay Voters,” Cooper argued that Romney for serious spending cuts in this Congress, long championed, and that are so important “should take a page from his running mate’s nobody is more qualified to articulate a to our future success.” playbook and support stronger workplace conservative economic vision to restore Just how bad - or hostile - is Paul Ryan non-discrimination laws.” the American economy and stimulate job to LGBT issues and gay rights? As one Cooper went on to chastise Obama for creation,” Cooper added. measure, the Human Rights Campaign has not signing an executive order that would Repeated attempts seeking comments consistently given him very low ratings have barred federal contractors from from local and state gay Republicans were on its congressional scorecards, with four discriminating against LGBT people. unsuccessful. zeroes and one rating of 10 out of 100, that “By vowing to sign an executive order But local, state, and national Democrats for his 2007 support of the Employment preventing federal contractors from firing - gay and straight alike - had plenty on Non-Discrimination Act, which some people for being LGBT, and joining Paul their minds. termed “half-hearted.” Ryan in support for ENDA, Romney can HRC’s scorecards come out at the end draw a favorable contrast between himself of a two-year session. Consequently, there and the president.” Ryan LGBT Record is yet no rating available for 2011-2012. But Doug Case, president of San Diego “Congressman Paul Ryan’s record on Ryan voted twice (in 2004 and 2006) for Democrats for Equality, an affiliate of LGBT issues is deeply troubling,” said a federal marriage amendment that would National Stonewall Democrats, would Drew Hammill, press secretary to House have defined marriage as the union of a have none of it. Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-San man and woman. “Once again the Log Cabin apologists are Francisco). trying to spray perfume on a skunk,” said “His record includes votes against the Case in an email correspondence, referring repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ and Dodging Gay Discussion to “Cooper’s groveling commentary” that against a fully-inclusive hate crimes bill While Ryan’s voting record is one “touts Congressman Ryan’s one and only - both of which were signed into law by thing, Romney’s vice presidential running pro-LGBT vote [some] years ago.” President Obama. As a so-called deficit mate seemingly downplays his anti-gay “The Log Cabin Republicans seem to hawk, Congressman Ryan has been in track record by shying away even from have lost touch with reality,” Case added. lockstep with Speaker [John] Boehner’s discussing LGBT issues. “They certainly have lost any sense of legal defense of DOMA, which continues Last February, during an appearance credibility. Romney’s poor choice has to burn through hundreds of thousands on NBC’s Meet the Press, Ryan dodged made it clearer than ever that LGBT of taxpayer dollars,” Hammill explained, moderator David Gregory’s pressing him Americans must mobilize to re-elect referring to House Republicans’ hiring about gay marriage. President Obama.” of attorneys to defend the Defense of “Congressman Ryan,” asked Gregory, Case also took Ryan to task over his Marriage Act after the Justice Department “Do you think this is an issue that’s blueprint for renewal. “Ryan’s economic said it would no longer defend the anti- legitimate for the presidential campaign? plan is a type of reverse-Robin Hood, gay law. Do we have to come to a point where the embracing the failed Republican ‘trickle- Based on her Capitol Hill experience, country reconciles different views about down’ policies of the past,” said Case. “He Rep. Niki Tsongas (D-Massachusetts) this and we have a consistent way of wants to create tax breaks for millionaires offered her assessment. looking at same-sex marriage?” and pay for it by cutting Head Start, “Congressman Ryan and I served on the “Actually, I came on to talk about the reducing Pell Grants for college students, House Budget Committee together and I debt crisis we have and the budget and I turning Medicare into a voucher system, got a firsthand view of his very extreme think that’s really the driving issue of this, and privatizing Social Security.” views,” she said in e-mail correspondence. this election,” Ryan replied. Longtime gay-rights activist and LGBT “For example, Congressman Ryan voted “Mm-hmm,” said Gregory. community leader Barbara Hoffman of against the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, Ryan went on to say, “I don’t know why Boston’s South End, said, Ryan’s “intent which helps women fight for equal pay for we’re spending all this time talking about to massacre Medicare is likely to horrify equal work. He voted against repealing the [same-sex marriage].” the elderly.” discriminatory policy of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t As longtime Massachusetts gay rights “I am optimist that he is a bad enough Tell,’ and supports writing discrimination activist and South End Don Gorton of Join choice that it increases Obama’s chance for into the Constitution by amending it to ban the Impact observed over the telephone, re-election,” added Hoffman who serves on gay marriage,” Tsongas explained. “Ryan is a sort of new style Republican Boston’s Ward Four Democratic Committee. “While Massachusetts and a handful of who grew up with homophobia and gay For his part, Jerame Davis, executive states have led the way on LGBT rights, our issues by not talking about them. He would director of National Stonewall nation is still a long way from achieving try to bury us in silence.” Democrats, called Cooper’s opinion equality under the law for all Americans,” “That’s a great comment,” said piece “contemptible.” www.PrideSource.com August 23, 2012 | BTL 13 14 BTL | August 23, 2012 www.PrideSource.com INSIDE FUR TRADING CO. BUNNIES ON A MISSION PET EVENTS

Michigan to be Nation’s First No-Kill State, Goal of Upcoming Conference

BY KATE OPALEWSKI progress in the state at that time,” said Keith. animal control officers, and animal lovers healthy and treatable pets, and we know how “The no-kill movement isn’t about individual and advocates are encouraged to attend (which will be discussed more in-depth during LANSING - While the state of Michigan has shelters becoming ‘no-kill.’ It is about no the conference to participate in a variety the conference), there really is no excuse a long way to go in some areas, we are in the kill communities. The definition of a no-kill of sessions, including Rescue Certification not to - although poorly managed public and forefront of becoming the first no-kill state with community is one in which all healthy and Training, Veterinarian-focused sessions, No private shelters seem to have no shortage of 11 no-kill communities, more than any other state, treatable homeless pets are adopted into new Kill 101, How to Remove “Hard to Place” From such excuses.” according to the Michigan Pet Fund Alliance. homes rather than killed. For purposes of public Pit Bull Adoptions, Reducing Shelter Intake, Two decades ago, the concept of a No Kill “It’s the goal of our organization and our policy, that is considered to mean that at least Innovation in Animal Welfare, and Compassion community was little more than a dream, said conference to get to that goal,” said Pet Fund board 90 percent of a community’s homeless pets are Fatigue of the Animal Sheltering and Rescue the No-Kill Advocacy Center in a statement member Christie Keith about Michigan’s 2012 saved. Because that’s an ’unspinnable’ figure – Workers, among others. The No-Kill Advocacy on their website. “Today, it is a reality in many No-Kill Conference (www.michiganpetfund.org) it’s simply the percentage of the total number of Center’s (http://www.nokilladvocacycenter. cities and counties nationwide and the numbers to be held on Sept. 20 at the Lansing Radisson pets taken into a community’s shelter – it isn’t org/shelter-reform/) founder, Nathan Winogard, continue to grow. And the first step is a decision, Hotel on 111 North Grand and on Sept. 21 at dependent on varying definitions or standards of will speak at the conference also. a commitment to reject the kill-oriented failures the Lansing Center on 333 E. Michigan Avenue. ‘treatable’ or ‘healthy,’ and doesn’t rely on highly “There is quite simply no possibility Michigan of the past. No-Kill starts as an act of will. The volunteer, not-for-profit organization plans manipulatible terms like ‘adoptable,’” said will not become a no-kill state. The only real The next step involves putting in place the to introduce a new way of thinking and doing Keith. “However, there are many communities question is how long it will take us. If we infrastructure to save lives.” things at their second annual gathering. This all across the United States that save more than organize and unite to reach the goal, we will be 21st century approach includes a formula that 90 percent, so it’s likely as we progress in our the first no-kill state,” said Keith. “If we delay, INFO when implemented will save 90,000 or more of movement that figure will be revised upward.” we’ll be one of many. But the era of killing pets Michigan’s homeless, healthy and treatable cats The term no-kill is not to be mistaken with for no reason but the fact that they are homeless Registration (includes the Welcome and Opening and dogs. The purpose of the no-kill conference euthanasia, which Keith said “is the merciful is over. In a recent Associated Press poll, 71 session on Thursday, plus discussion of Michigan’s is to share the formula, identify and share taking of life of a hopelessly ill pet, the kind percent of Americans polled said that they current animal-related legislation and breakout resources, showcase those successfully using the of act a loving pet owner shows when a pet’s believed shelters should not be allowed to kill sessions with three expert speakers): formula, provide opportunity for networking and suffering can’t be helped anymore. Population healthy or treatable pets, and even the 29 percent $90 per person establishing collaborations, and take a step closer control killing is not euthanasia, as there is who said they should be allowed to do so said it $30 per person for the award banquet to making Michigan a no-kill state. nothing merciful about it. It’s a public policy should only be ‘sometimes.’” $50 per student (school name and student ID “We will be giving awards to ten of Michigan’s failure and an illustration that the community’s Whether animal lovers attend the conference number must be provided on the registration form no-kill communities at our conference, as well sheltering organizations have not yet adopted the or not, Keith said the most important thing and student ID presented at conference check-in) as acknowledging many other achievements programs and policies that make it unnecessary.” they can do is demand more of their municipal Groups of 5 or more are eligible for a 10% in the last year toward reaching that goal. Municipal decision makers, shelter staff and agencies and private shelters alike. “Since discount. All members of the group must be entered We’ll also be presenting some exciting data on volunteers, rescue organizations, veterinarians, we know that communities can save all their at the same time. www.PrideSource.com August 23, 2012 | BTL 15 Fur Trading Company is the New Pet Connection

“Our long-term goal is to create a ‘Visibility FALL PET ISSUE Team,’ a core group of volunteers who can pick BY CRYSTAL A. PROXMIRE up dogs from shelters or fosters and walk them around Ferndale, meeting folks and socializing FERNDALE - Andrea Johns is no stranger them. We would also like to eventually start a to helping displaced animals find homes. As a Petfinder page and official website to promote former organizer for Fido Does Ferndale and the animals that individuals are rescuing and a volunteer for the now dis-banded Waggs fostering. Then, of course, adoption events, & Wishes she’s helped make dozens of pet fundraisers for special causes and community connections. Now, in the absence of a Ferndale awareness events.” shelter or rescue group, she and pal Rachel Heller Because the group is so new, there are several are making things happen with their new pet things that need attention. Johns said everyone connecter group, Ferndale Fur Trading Company. is welcomed and needed. “The Ferndale Fur Trading Company was “Anyone with special talents… grooming, started because the citizens began expressing a training, web and graphic design, photography, need for a rescue group in town,” Johns said. “We etc. will be greatly appreciated and used. Anyone saw an opportunity to bring these folks together who is just curious can meet with us to plan and in a citywide effort to help pets find homes and brainstorm. Members of different rescue groups to help citizens find pets! Because we two have are encouraged to contact us, so we can find a so many human connections in Ferndale, and way to help. This is so new, and the possibilities so many friends in the rescue community, we are endless if we gather a large enough army.” decided we could best be used to bring the two They held a Pitt Stop Fundraiser on Aug. 19 together through fun events, networking and to raise money to give the organization a good creating visibility for the animals. Andrea Johns is co-founder of Ferndale Fur Trading Co. seen here kissing Otis. BTL photo: Crystal A. Proxmire. start. They raised $629.51, which will be used towards acquiring their tax ID, and the remainder “There is also a forgotten community of plenty of potential pet parents to network with. said. “Volunteers can put in as much or as little individuals who take in and foster strays on will ensure that at least six dogs or cats will be The group is not an adoption agency, simply a time as they want, and will be given projects to spayed, neutered and vetted. The event filled the their own. The Ferndale Fur Trading Company network through which to promote pet adoptions. help with fundraising and events, or we will get is a resource and outlet for them as well.” Johns alley behind Dino’s Lounge and attracted dog Aside from the founders, FFTC has a small them in contact with rescue groups if they want owners and supporters. works at Dino’s Lounge and Heller often helps group of about 20 people who are lending a hand. to work directly with animals, walking, cleaning her friends at the Rust Belt Market, giving them “The beauty of the group is simplicity,” Johns and socializing. See Fur Trading, page 23

16 BTL | August 23, 2012 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com August 23, 2012 | BTL 17 Oswald and Cadbury, Bunnies on a Mission FALL PET ISSUE veterinary care. It’s true that children are naturally energetic and loving, but ‘loving’ BY CRYSTAL A. PROXMIRE to a small child means holding, cuddling, or carrying an animal around - precisely the things FERNDALE – Oswald and Cadbury are grey that frighten most rabbits. Rabbits can’t cry Flemish Bunnies on a mission. The super soft and out when distressed. Instead, they may start to extra friendly rabbits ride around the Ferndale scratch or bite to protect themselves from well- area in a double baby carriage pushed by animal- meaning children. Thousands are abandoned at loving activist Julie Miron of Ferndale. Miron animal shelters every year for this reason. Many hosts rescue bunnies, mainly from the Michigan rabbits are also dropped accidentally by children, Anti Cruelty Shelter in Detroit where she also resulting in broken legs and backs. While a rabbit volunteers. And she takes Oswald and Cadbury may be a great pet for your family, an adult around to help introduce bunny love and proper should be the primary caretaker.” care to the people they meet. They also have strong urges to dig, chew and “We can go anywhere and it makes people bite. That’s why bunnies need plenty of toys smile,” Miron said. “Earlier today someone like cardboard, old phone books or chew sticks stopped us on the street and said ‘thank you, I was from the pet store. If left free to roam the house, having a bad day and this made a difference.’” a bunny will chew on things, including electrical The pair even has their own Facebook Page cords. So while they do need to be allowed to where fans can follow them on their adventures. roam for exercise, they should be monitored And they’ve been selected to be in the Great as well. Lakes Rabbit Sanctuary 2013 calendar. Find out more about bunny care at http://www. Miron said that many rabbits that end up in aspca.org/pet-care/small-pet-care/general-rabbit- rescues were purchased to be children’s pets care.aspx. For information about adopting a for Easter that they didn’t want to take care of. Oswald and Cadbury. BTL photo by Crystal A. Proxmire bunny contact the Michigan Anti-Cruelty Society “Rabbits are a lot of work, it’s a commitment. through http://www.macsshelter.org/default.htm They can live 7-10 years and you can’t just put degrees is too much for them. “People should before adopting a bunny, including a breakdown or The Great Lakes Animal Sanctuary through them in a cage outside. They require a lot of read a couple books and talk to rescues before of the expenses and the special health concerns http://www.rabbitsanctuary.org/. care.” She said that bunnies can easily die from they get one,” she said. the creatures may have. And if you want to be friends with Oswald either heat or cold, and that anything over 84 The American Society for the Prevention of They caution that “rabbits are physically and Cadbury on Facebook go to https://www. Cruelty to Animals gives information to consider delicate and fragile, and require specialized facebook.com/OswaldAndCadburyBunny.

18 BTL | August 23, 2012 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com August 23, 2012 | BTL 19 Upcoming Pet Events

areas to enjoy an adult beverage Featured events: Dock Diving, Weight FALL PET while socializing your loyal pooch. Pulling, K9 Fun Run, Agility, and Canine Good Citizen Testing Humane Society of South Central Michigan Benefit Pinckney Dogfest Aug. 25 Sept. 8 (Rain date Sept. 28) Drinking with Dogs 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. 10 a.m. (gates open at 9:30 a.m.) Sept. 18 Registration fee: $25 to 3 p.m. 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. (269) 963-1796 11211 Dexter Pinckney Rd. Fountain Bistro in Pinckney or [email protected] 800 Woodward at Campus Martius Featured events: Dog walk Last Day Dog Rescue Pet (734) 878-1928 Park in Detroit (registration begins at 9 a.m.), $10 per vehicle or $5 with an on-site (313) 831-3647 or visit vendor booths, dog fashion show Extravaganza dog food donation to the Gleaners www.caninetofivedetroit.com and costume contest, microchip your Aug. 25 Pet Pantry. pet for $20, Pet adoption Every third Tuesday, Canine to 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Featured events: Disc Dogs of Five selects various metro Detroit Petco Michigan, Tidbit Catching Contest, establishments with outdoor seating 35725 Warren Rd. in Westland Dog Singing Contest, Dog Tricks areas to enjoy an adult beverage Bark-A-Bout’s First Contest, Triathalon Race, Dog Dress- while socializing your loyal pooch. [email protected] Annual Field Day Up Parade Aug. 25 9th Annual All American 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Drinking with Dogs Bully Splash Bash Pet Expo and Mega Pet 14660 23 Mile Rd. in Shelby Township Aug. 28 Sept. 16 (586) 566-8900 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Celebrate bully breed friends and Adoption or [email protected] their families to support the Recycl- Sept. 21 Rosie O’Grady’s A-Bullz advocacy program) Featured events: Air Digs Dock 279 W. Nine Mile Rd. in Ferndale 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Diving Competition, CGC and (313) 831-3647 or visit 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 22 Therapy Dog Tests, Demonstrations www.caninetofivedetroit.com Currey’s Family Pet Care 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. from Leader Dog for the Blind and Every third Tuesday, Canine 6261 Hannan Rd. in Romulus Macomb County Sheriff Department to Five selects various Detroit (313) 943-2697 or lthomas@ Sept. 23 establishments with outdoor seating dearbornanimals.org to register See Pet Events, page 23

20 BTL | August 23, 2012 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com August 23, 2012 | BTL 21 13 15 2 Cool Cities 11 Ferndale 105 3 9 1 12 4 7 8 YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD • YOUR MARKET 6 Pinpoint your ad dollars where they will do the most good . . . Advertise in the next Cool Cities TO PLACE AN AD CALL 734.293.7200

16

14

BTL Advertisers Essential Massage...... 5 Just for Us...... 12 Affirmations...... 1 Ferndale Chiropractic...... 6 MCC Detroit...... 13 Autometic Collision...... 2 Ferndale DDA...... 7 Michigan AIDS Coalition...... 14 Comos...... 3 Four Seasons Enterprises...... 8 S.P.I.C.E...... 1 Downtown Ferndale Bike Shop.....4 Go Comedy...... 9 Steven B’s Barber Shop...... 15 Edward Korkoian Funeral...... * Green Thumb Garden Center.....10 Suburban Buick GMC...... 16 Hodges...... 11

22 BTL | August 23, 2012 www.PrideSource.com ® Fur Trading the back yard and giggled over what to name 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Hart Plaza him. The dog played along with them, happy to ® Events 1 Hart Plaza in Detroit Continued from p. 16 Compuware Arena Second location added: have found a home. And finally their laughter Continued from p. 20 14900 N. Beck Rd. in Plymouth Kensington Metropark Several pooches took part in the doggie kissing and goofy name contest got so loud that the Tickets: $12 (use promo code 2240 W. Buno Rd. in Milford Ferndale Police showed up saying a neighbor 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. savedogs when ordering) (248) 283-1000, ext. 149 or visit booth, while some just spent the evening lounging www.michiganhumane.org/MEGA about or sniffing out other had complained. Admission: www.plymouthwhalers.com dogs while their owners “Everything about this Adults $11, Seniors (60 and over) $9, $7 for children ages 5-12, free for sipped adult beverages in dog and this night was so Last Day Dog Rescue silly, that the name just children under four Australian Shepherd the alleyway dining area. Dinner and Drinks for the Yvette Beausoleil stuck. We called him Sir Suburban Collection Showplace Rescue of Michigan Silly because of it,” she 46100 Grand River Avenue in Novi Dogs is a Ferndale resident presents Aussie Fun Day said. The next day she www.novipetexpo.com Nov. 16 who understands the Oct. 6 passion that goes called the City of Warren, Featured events: Dock Diving 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Competitions and Demos, Dog World, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. into rescue work and where the dog’s tag was Admission: $5 registered, and she called Bird World, Cat World, and Horse Admission: $10 per person, $5 for animal care. She found World, Reptile World, Meet the Breeds, children ages 3-12, Free for children Walker’s Speak Easy her dog, Sir Silly, the owner several times. and a Dress Up Your Pet contest under 2 8701 N. Beech Daly It took three months for in Dearborn Heights five years ago on a 9100 Ladner Farms NE in Ada the owner to call her back, (313) 274-9645 cold night wandering or [email protected] admitting that Sir Silly Bark for Life of Canton (616) 874-5057 around the lawn of or [email protected] Featured events: Spaghetti dinner Ferndale High School. was supposed to have been Sept. 22 for a donation of your choice, raffles, (To benefit American Cancer Society) Featured Events: Agility Equipment “It was about 1:30 training to be a hunting dog and Instruction, Rally Obedience drink specials, DJ and dancing in the morning and but he got away. He told her 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Demo, Aussie Free Play, Adoption, 50/50 Raffle, Silent Auction, and my friend and I were that he was “over it,” and Admission: $20 for first dog, $5 for that she could keep him if T-Shirt sales. All proceeds benefit coming home from an each additional dog Aussies in need as well as Michigan Last Day Dog Rescue evening out when we Blake Scheer of Ferndale with Olive. she wanted. And she did. Save $5 and register in advance at Aussie owners who need help with Millionaire Party Poker vet and food bills. saw this sad dog out in “I know how much work www.relayforlife.org/cantonmi Fundraiser and money it takes to care the cold. And you know, dogs pick you. He Heritage Park Dec. 4-7 came over to the truck and looked up at me, for animals, and how when you love an animal 46202 Heritage Park Rd. in Canton (734) 340-4269 or Michigan Humane 3 p.m. to 2 a.m. turning his head back and forth because of all you’ll sacrifice anything to care for it. That’s why I love what Andrea and Rachel are doing, [email protected] Snookers Pool and Pub Poker Room the hair that was shaggy over his eyes, and I Society’s 2012 Mega 45100 Northpointe Blvd. in Utica knew. It was no thought about getting him into and why I came out to support,” Beasoleil said. March for Animals (810) 523-8896 or [email protected] the truck,” Beasoleil said. To look for pets that are available, or to find Last Day Dog Rescue Oct. 7 Featured events: No limit Texas Hold She took the dog home to keep on the out more about FFTC, check them out on and Plymouth Whalers 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. enclosed porch for the night, except that she ‘Em cash games, tournaments, and Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ Fundraiser Free to register, Registration begins Black Jack. See nolimitcharitypoker. and her friend were a little lively still from their at 9 a.m. com for more information. night of drinking. So they brought the dog in TheFerndaleFurTradingCompany. Sept. 29

BUTTON'SBUTTON'S RENT-I-ITT RENTINGRENTING TOOLSTOOLS & EEQUIPMENTQUIPMENT SSINCEINCE 19419499 GrGreeatat SServiceervice * Expert Advice * GGoodood EquipmEquipmentent SSeeee our website for equipment list and rates Website:ebsite: www..buttonsrbuttonsrententit.comit.com EE-mail:-mail: [email protected]@aol.com OR CALL US - 248-542-5835248-542-5835 OpenOpen Mon thru Sat-Sat- Delivery Available - SSmallmall EnEnginegine RepairsRepairs/T/Tune-Uune-Upsps WWee Accept: CCash-Vash-Visa-Masterisa-MasterCarCard-Discover-American Expresesss 11126126 SS.. Washington Royal OOakak ((betweenbetween Lincoln & Woodwaoodwarrdd))

offoff Visit our website! 10% http://www.pridesource.com any rentalentala w/couponw/coupon Add our fan page! WeWe will exceptexcept the couponcoupon if youyoou show it onon theirtheir blackberryblackberry or cranberrycranbeerry, etc Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” Expires: 9/30/129/30/12 BUTTON'S RENRENT-IT 248248-542-5835-542-5835 Follow us! @YourBTL www.PrideSource.com August 23, 2012 | BTL 23 24 BTL | August 23, 2012 www.PrideSource.com ‘Voice’ Finalist Gets Serious About Her Sexuality, Talks Upcoming Album

Photo: Robert Ector

BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI – and made out with so many girls in college. I were hot. My dad read so much into it, and it’s It absolutely is something I’ve had to fight. don’t think it was a secret to anybody! (Laughs) been really interesting seeing my dad embrace all For a long time that’s why I dated mostly men, verything happens for a reason in the life of this – that has been the most heartwarming part because when I would meet a woman that I was of Frenchie Davis. Was performing “I Kissed a Girl” on “The Voice” of it. I mean, my father and I never really talked into – a lesbian – she would be turned off by the E Ten years after getting disqualified your way of hinting at your homosexuality? about it. My mother knew; she met whatever girls fact that I was bisexual. from “American Idol” for her Internet porn past, and guys I dated in high school. But with my dad, You know what’s crazy? I didn’t even plan to do And men aren’t so much turned off by that. she became a finalist on “The Voice,” sang with that. They came to me and said, “You’re singing we never really talked about it until he met my Christina Aguilera and releases her debut album ‘I Kissed a Girl’ and I’m like, ‘OK. Well, let’s partner and was like, “You look happy. I like her.” (Laughs) Men are totally opposite! For a long later this year. go with this.’” My dad is super conservative and Republican. time I felt like it was just easier to identify with In our interview, she put it all out there again: Black Republican, I know. Don’t even get me being straight; it seemed easier to date guys Davis addressed the stigma of being bisexual and You just got involved with the It Gets Better started. He was the one I was afraid to tell. because lesbians seemed so turned off by the black, how she doesn’t regret the “Idol” ordeal campaign. Why was that important for you to When it all ended up being in the headlines, he bisexual thing. So I’ve experienced criticism and why her upcoming album – and entire solo be a part of? was afraid that me being open and honest about and people looking down on it in the straight career – almost didn’t happen. who I am would affect my career negatively or community and in the gay community. The most important thing to me outside of negatively affect the way people look at me. I didn’t plan to come out, but I’m really music is inspiring young people. The more Before you came out publicly in a recent You know, he’s my dad; he just wants to protect thankful that everything unfolded the way it we adults continue to send out the message interview, how out were you in your own life? me. It really meant so much to me when (my did because no, I’m not straight; none of the to young people that it’s OK to be you, we’re coming out was) all in the headlines and my dad guys I’ve been with made me straight, just I first told my mom that I was attracted to boys all, in a small way, contributing to making the called me and was like, “I just want to call and like being madly in love with my partner right and girls when I was 16 years old. A lot of my world a little better. That’s just my philosophy. say I’m really proud of you.” now doesn’t make me a lesbian. I’m a bisexual friends and family weren’t really surprised to Any opportunity that presents itself to send that Moments like that have reminded me that it woman and it is what it is. I have enjoyed men hear that I had “come out,” because all I did was message to young people, I’m all for it. answer a question honestly in an interview and indeed does get better. There were times where thoroughly, and I can say the same thing about it ended up becoming a headline. For you, how did it get better? it was hard, like in high school. And not even women. People who don’t think that it’s real, having to do with being bisexual, but being a maybe that’s the reality in which they exist, but I didn’t plan to come out. I fell in love with My mother was very accepting and big girl, too. People called me fat; they called that’s not my reality. someone who I think I could be with forever, understanding, but I actually didn’t tell my and I’m used to, in casual conversation, me a dyke and all those things. I know what it father right away. I think he definitely knew feels like to not fit into the mold of what society How does being black and bisexual change things? talking about my partner. That’s what ended up because he came to visit my dorm room and thinks you’re supposed to be. I honestly thought that we were a lot farther, happening in the interview and what ended up was like, “Wow, you’ve got a lot of pictures of and then I did an interview with the Tom Joyner being my coming out. It wasn’t something that half-naked girls on your wall.” (Laughs) Bisexuality in the gay community is looked at as Morning Show and was completely taken aback I had planned. It wasn’t something I was being taboo or “just a phase.” Have you felt stigmatized secretive about, either. I’ve performed at so You were just idolizing those girls … right? by the way that went. The interview ended many HRC and GLAAD events and gay Prides because of it? Yeah, just idolizing them – sure. And thinking they See Frenchie Davis, page 26 www.PrideSource.com August 23, 2012 | BTL 25 ® Frenchie Davis Continued from p. 25

with a guy shouting, “Let a man into the bedroom!” That’s how disrespectful it was. It was bad. It really broke my heart, because I know what it’s like to be black in America and I know what it’s like to be a woman in America, and to be treated with disdain and disrespect by members of my own community was hurtful. It hurt me to the core. You know, at the end of the day when the stage lights are turned off and the audiences go home, you have to be able to look at yourself in the mirror. When I leave this earth, I want to know that I was on the right side of history. Things won’t change unless people like me say, “No, I’m not going to allow society to bully me into lying about who I am.” Christina Aguilera’s diva behavior makes a lot of headlines. What is she really like, and what surprised you most about working with her on “The Voice”? (Hesitates) I’m never going to bad talk her, publicly. I’m just never gonna do it. But I will say this: I was pleasantly surprised by how amazing her ear is. Her ear is on releasing your debut single and album? Is there pressure to stay in the closet on point. Even when she’s not trying, that instrument is right. She definitely is a pop It’s amazing how the universe works. shows like “American Idol” or “The Voice”? diva for a reason. There was a time when I just thought, “I Not at all. I didn’t feel any pressure to not don’t want to feel unfulfilled and bitter, so be out when I was on those shows. In all She has a reason to be a little catty, is maybe I should give up on the recording honesty, some of the people who’ve been what you’re saying. thing and be really thankful that I’m a most successful on those shows have been No! I’m not saying that! That’s what you Broadway star and just do the theater members of the LGBT community. Look got out of that? (Laughs) thing.” There was a moment where I had at Adam Lambert – and America loved given up on this, and then I’m singing at a Beverly (McClellan) and loved Vicci What do you remember most from gay club and the casting director for “The (Martinez), so I didn’t feel any pressure at performing at drag clubs and gay bars? Voice” is in the audience having drinks all. I can’t really speak for “Idol” because and then I’m on “The Voice” and this All the makeup tips I picked up. All I didn’t stay on the show long enough to whole other window of opportunity opens the wardrobe tricks I’ve learned. My really have a fair comparison between up that I never even expected. friends from back then. I don’t miss the “Idol” and “The Voice,” but I can speak struggling part! (Laughs) But even then What can we expect from the upcoming from my experience on “The Voice,” and I can say that they were very welcoming maybe – those days of being in that grind album and your debut single? and me and my college friends not being to LGBT contestants. I don’t think anyone able to afford to fly home for the holidays, It’s gonna be dance-pop and the first single there felt pressure to not be open about so we all put our money together to go is called “Love’s Got a Hold on Me,” and who they are. And that was an amazing grocery shopping and I cooked a big it was written by Janice Robinson and I’m experience. Who would’ve thought 10 holiday dinner for everyone. Then it was, really excited about it. I shot a video for years after being on “Idol” that I’d be “Well, let me go sing with the gay boys it with Brian Friedman as the co-director singing “Lady Marmalade” on national tonight so I can make a couple of dollars and choreographer. A lot of people know TV with Christina Aguilera? Brian from his work with Britney Spears real quick” – because you know the gay So you’re glad things worked out the way boys tip at the drag bar! (Laughs) and he’s a creative director for “X Factor.” Brian jumped on board because he they did? No hard feelings against “Idol”? You were among a bunch of other drag believed in me enough to be like, “Yeah, You can’t waste your time on regrets, queens. Did anyone ever mistake you I’m gonna bring in the dancers and make because they’re just the past crippling for one? it fierce for you.” you in the present. If there was a button we could push to change the past then They didn’t. I think that’s why I made Is the whole album dance-pop or just that would be a different conversation, so many tips, because I was the only the single? but that button doesn’t exist so you have real girl and I was the only performer The single is dance-pop and most of the to walk away with all the lessons that not lip-syncing. So I’m really thankful album will be dance music. But, of course, you could’ve possibly learned and move for that. I still keep in touch with a lot of I’m gonna throw in a power ballad or two! forward and try to be better in the future. drag queens in D.C. The gay community I have to. Knowing me and my gay boys, I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m really in D.C. is really what started this whole there will probably be dance remixes of thankful for the woman that I’m evolving performing at gay Prides and all that. It’s even the ballads. (Laughs) into, and I’m really thankful for all the been an amazing journey. good in my life. Had something back then After performing on reality shows and doing Are you going to get Christina on the album? happened differently, who knows where I “Rent” on Broadway, how does it feel to be I’d love to do that, if she’ll do it. would’ve been today.

26 BTL | August 23, 2012 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com August 23, 2012 | BTL 27 Across 52 He played George in 20-Across and 21 Heston was its pres. Movin’ On Up 34-Across 22 Mothers, to Verlaine 1 Fruit cover 56 In two parts 26 Article written by Arnold 5 Has sex on a carpet? 57 Like a Peru native at a public lavatory? 28 One who wears very little clothing 10 Nuts and bolts 58 Dark greenish blue 29 Biathlon need 14 Obsidian source 59 They’re performing, in “Fame” 31 War zone, in brief 15 Earhart, for one 60 Traps for suckers 32 Musket attachment 16 “Serpico” author Peter 61 “Render therefore ___ Caesar ...” 33 Mr. Williams, as Doubtfire 17 Ghostbusters role 62 High place with a flat top 34 Pirates go after it 18 Able to bend over 63 Hung beast of a simile 35 Condoms for erections? 19 Large earthenware jar 64 Use a keyhole, perhaps 36 Sorbonne summer 20 Groundbreaking sitcom of the ‘70s 37 “The Dark Knight” role from 23 Removes, as a foreskin Down Brokeback Mountain? 24 Just make, with “out” 38 A as in Austria 1 Tickle pink 25 Mail order abbr. 39 Queer 2 Two under scores for Sheehan 27 Former NFL player Tuaolo 42 James of “Milk” 3 Become men, perhaps 28 Make a blunder 43 Curry of “The Rocky Horror Picture 30 Witherspoon of “Legally Blonde 2” 4 Poet Sidney Show” 32 “Y” wearer 5 Fop’s footwear 44 Try to get one’s strength back 33 One you may see in a shower 6 Cole Porter’s “Ridin’ ___” 45 Actress Dahl 34 Spinoff of 20-Across 7 What you could get caught in 46 Dream up 39 One with a gifted tongue 8 Swinger who tries to put it in the hole 47 AIDS activist Elizabeth with few strokes 40 Fleur-de-___ 50 Group that won’t pose for nude photos 9 Prime piece of meat 41 Jacobi of “I, Claudius” 51 Be aware of 10 Mine, in Montreal 42 Low boggy land 53 “Lohengrin” soprano 11 Hammer that requires testicles for 43 Religious pamphlet 54 Home st. of Maupin its user? 48 Sonny, to Chaz 55 Broadway scenery chewers 12 Belafonte tunes 49 Stud site 56 Dyke’s latex 51 Club head? 13 9-digit ID org. Solution on pg 32

28 BTL | August 23, 2012 www.PrideSource.com Horoscopes Turn up the charm, Gemini!

BY JACK FERTIG

The Sun entering Virgo and Mars coming home to Scorpio push us to work. Both aspect Neptune so focus may be hard to achieve. Mediation helps. Venus, Mercury and Jupiter offer opportunity through conviviality. Mix work with pleasure and you can get way ahead.

ARIES (March 20 – April 19): Life has been too intense lately and nobody who knows would blame you for letting off steam, but most don’t know. Try to pour that energy into work or exercise. Puttering around your home will also help keep your mouth out of trouble. TAURUS (April 20 – May 20): Share good news unless it involves money. Friends are too likely to exploit your good nature. Stash that cash where it will be safe and collect a bit of interest. Your own charms should be enough to hold your pals’ interest. GEMINI (May 21- June 20): Flirtation (in the right places), affability and your best manners will open doors for you. Turn up the charm. Think ahead about what doors you want open. Social temptations can be a real distraction from big opportunities. CANCER (June 21- July 22): Daydreams can be a serious diversion from work that needs to be done. That would just feed your worries Visit our website! and undermine your health. No, you can’t do everything so do http://www.pridesource.com what’s most important. Add our fan page! LEO (July 23 – August 22): Keep your energy from being wasted Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” through your mouth and you can accomplish a lot. Prioritize home, family and community in that order. If there’s a more economical Follow us! way to do anything you can find it. @YourBTL VIRGO (August 23 – September 22): Trust your instincts to do and say the right thing. You can hardly go wrong. Friends and authority figures will prove helpful. Don’t waste this gift but be very mindful of your long-range goals, professional and otherwise. LIBRA (September 23 – October 22): Friends can help promote you, but be clear about what you want. Being too nice can encourage disastrous dysfunction. Opportunities for advancement and the chance to quietly accomplish a lot may pull you in different directions. Balancing both could take some juggling. SCORPIO (October 23 – November 21): Your ruler Mars, coming home to your sign, boosts your energy. It may be hard to focus at first. Accept guidance, even criticism from your friends. Blowing off some steam in the bedroom can actually help. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 – December 20): Take a chance on love, or even just sex. New opportunities await for a grand romance, or new thrills with your old love. Breaking appointments with platonic friends can cause trouble. Reschedule with respect. CAPRICORN (December 21 – January 19): With recent pressures abating you may feel a bit adrift. Your partner can help provide direction and focus. Your natural instinct for work and accomplishment will also point you in the right direction. AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 18): New ideas may show where you need to step back a bit, take a broader view and find opportunity. New connections at work can prove helpful. Balancing cooperation with subtle individual initiatives can challenge your integrity and new friendships. Some wit is necessary; too much is disastrous. PISCES (February 19 – March 19): Nobody lives up to your ideals, but neither do you. Don’t blame them for not keeping your universe perfect. Your helpful suggestions are taken more as annoying criticism. Keep the focus on quiet, meditative self-improvement and you will be much admired. www.PrideSource.com August 23, 2012 | BTL 29 Happenings Saturday, Aug. 25 PFLAG Battle Creek 7 p.m. Meets monthly at St. Thomas Episcopal Church. French Tea Luncheon 1 p.m. Affiliated with BC Pride. PFLAG Battle OUTINGS Admission: $32. The tea company will Creek, 16 E. Van Buren, Battle Creek. be holding a tea in the lush atrium of Thursday, Aug. 23 Henry Ford Hospital. The food for this Sexual Compulsives Anonymous particular luncheon will be very refined 7 p.m. A weekly anonymous 12 step Civic Engagement Committee 1 p.m. and extremely authentic many of the group for those who are facing sexually Fourth Thursdays, May 24, 1PM at recipes are from French cookbooks compulsive behaviors. Affirmations, 290 the OutCenter. Empowering people to directly from Paris. Great Lakes Tea and W. 9 Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398- advocate and speak out for themselves Spice Luncheon, 6777 W. Maple Road, 7105. GoAffirmations.org and the LGBT community is key to West Bloomfield. 248-798-0052. Sally@ creating effective change. Our Civic gltskiosk.com Gltskiosk.com Engagement committee organizes to Tuesday, Aug. 28 educate and resource our community ALIVE Youth Group Meeting 2 p.m. All LanSINGout KickOff Rehearsal 7 p.m. members to make a difference in our LGBT and allied youth 14-20 encouraged All singers with male sounding voices community. E-mail to learn more. to join. 4th Saturday of every month are welcome to attend. If this is your OutCenter, 132 Water St., Benton is Social Justice Saturday. As some first time signing with us, you’ll have the Harbor. CivicEngagement@OutCenter. meetings are held around town, contact opportunity for an informal voice check org OutCenter.org ALIVE prior to attending meetings. ALIVE with the Artistic Director. LanSINGout Youth Group, 132 Water St., Benton Gay Men’s Chorus, 510 W. Ottawa Euchre Tournament - Benefit for Out Harbor. [email protected] St., Lansing. 517-490-1746. Info@ Loud Chorus 7 p.m. Entry: $10. Cash lansingout.org Lansingout.org prizes awarded. No partner necessary, all levels of ability welcome. Food and Sunday, Aug. 26 Transgender Life Support 7 p.m. beverage service available. Out Loud Good Ol’ BBQ Cookout 2 p.m. Food, Offering support, education, resources Chorus, 1950 S. Industrial Hwy, Ann fellowship, and fun. Stop by and get and a social structure for Transgender Arbor. 734-652-0801. OutLoudChorus@ a carry-out plate if you can’t stay. individuals. Facilitated by Arlene Kish, gmail.com Olconline.org Donations: $25+. Checks made payable Lorraine Brown, Jessica Manko, Tracy to “Ruth Ellis Center.” Kalimah Johnson Hoover, Marty Howland and Colt F. KGLRC Youth Group 7 p.m. The is performing spoken word and there Mclssac. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Resource Center Youth Group helps will be other surprises. Dress casual Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. young people, ages 13 to 18, who and cool. Kofi Adoma, 255 Worcester Transgenderlifesupport.org are trying to come to terms with their Pl., Detroit. sexuality in a sometimes-unaccepting Transgender Resource Group 7 p.m. society. Meets every Thursday from 7-9 The Conversation Station 5 p.m. All ages, sexual and gender identities are p.m. at a confidential location. To attend, Weekly discussion group for LGBTQA members. Allies are welcome too. This call or e-mail the resource center. 25 and over. Week’s topic: Is torture is a support and social group, with an Kalamazoo Gay and Lesbian Resource a moral evil? Is it wrong to torture emphasis on advocacy and education. Center, 629 Pioneer, Kalamazoo. 269- someone to get information that would The Lesbian and Gay Community 349-4234. Kglrc.org save live(s)? Get Out And Live!, 714 S. Network of West MI, 343 Atlas Ave. Washington St., Royal Oak. 248-981- SE, Grand Rapids. 616-458-3511. Speak Out 7 p.m. Offers a welcoming 4227. [email protected] [email protected] GRlgbt.org environment for LGBT people to GetOutAndLive.me improve their public speaking and Women’s Group 7 p.m. This group leadership skills. Meets the first and focuses on networking, socializing, and fourth Thursday of every month. Jim Monday, Aug. 27 discussion of issues relevant to lesbian Toy Community Center, 319 Braun Ct., Mysterious, Marvelous Monday 6 and bisexual women. Additional activities Ann Arbor. 734-995-9867. Crystalr@ p.m. Mysterious, Marvelous Monday is occasionally planned. The Lesbian and jimtoycenter.org the metamorphosis of Wild Wednesday. Gay Community Network of West MI, 343 Youth group for ages 13-18. Fostering Atlas Ave. SE, Grand Rapids. 616-458- Friday, Aug. 24 a kind and supportive environment. 3511. [email protected] Grlgbt.org Dedicated to Make a Change, L3C, 50 and Better Friday Group 7 p.m. 319 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734- Wednesday, Aug. 29 Designed for those 50 and better 657-1792. [email protected] Senior Koffee Klatch 1 p.m. A lively, looking for an excuse to get out of the Dedicatedtomakeachange.com house. Goes out every other week or discussion and social group for LGBT so for miniature golf, a movie, or other BC Pride Dinner 6:30 p.m. Celebrating adults over 45. Group covers topics activity, per vote. Kalamazoo Gay and the third anniversary of BC Pride’s first pertaining to aging and outside speakers. Lesbian Resource Center, 629 Pioneer meeting. Meeting in the center of Ale Potluck dinners at members homes, St., Kalamazoo. 269-349-4234. House, please RSVP. BC Pride, 1600 lunches out and holiday parties. Meets PhoenixChurch.org Avenue A, Springfield. 269-420-8170. ever Wednesday on the upper level of [email protected] the Affirmations building. Senior Koffee Klatch, 290 W. Road Mile Road, Ferndale. 586-573-9932. GoAffirmations.org Newly Single Support Group 6:30 p.m. Group for all dealing with the end of a relationship and want to talk - or Editor’s Pick Visitors of the University of Michigan Museum of Art encountering Danish artist Jesper Just’s “This Nameless Spectacle” will find themselves captivated in stages, as the experience of viewing it unfolds over time. Just works exclusively in film, shooting on a variety of stock including 8 mm and 35 mm and working closely with different musicians to create prominent soundtracks for each film. In this breathtaking film installation, as in much of his work, Just situates the viewer in his signature landscape of beauty, provocation and a general uneasiness that is as seductive as it is ominous. The storyline is at once deceptively simple and perplexing: a wheelchair-bound protagonist travels through a neighborhood in the outskirts of Paris to her apartment, while a young male character appears to follow her. Once home, she is able to leave her wheelchair but is overcome by a powerful seizure. Jesper Just: This Nameless Spectacle is on display until Dec. 9 at the University of Michigan Museum of Art, 515 S. State St., in Ann Arbor. For more information, go to UMMA.Umich.edu. Support for this exhibition is provided by the University of Michigan Office of the Provost.

30 BTL | August 23, 2012 www.PrideSource.com listen - to others who share similar Olympia Entertainment “The Big Home Grown: Plays from the Ground experiences. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Show at the Joe” Starring Young Jeezy, Up $12. Ann Arbor Civic Theatre at ACT Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. T.I., Wake Flocka Flame, B.o.B., Cash Studio Theatre, 322 W. Ann Street, Ann Goaffirmations.org Out and LoveRance. Tickets: $48-128. Arbor. Aug. 17 - 19. 734-971-2228. www. Joe Louis Arena, 19 Steve Yzerman Dr., a2ct.org God Rocks in the Stream 7 p.m. Detroit. 7 p.m. Sept. 1. 313-396-7000. Support group for LGBT or allied Olympiaentertainment.com Seven Brides for Seven Brothers Christians feeling unheard. Offering $25-28. The Croswell, 129 E. Maumee St., Editor’s Pick the spiritual and emotional support The Ark Bill Kirchen; Tickets: $20. The Adrian. Through Aug. 19. 517-264-SHOW. The Jewish Community Center of Metropolitan Detroit will of like-minded individuals. Meets last Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. Aug. www.Croswell.org Wednesday of every month. Gays in 31. 734-761-1800. TheArk.org host the Stephen Gottlieb Festival of the Arts Aug. 28-Sept. $15. Redbud Faith Together, 207 E. Fulton St., Grand The Other Place 2, with a program of concerts, lectures, hands-on art Productions at Kerrytown Concert Rapids. GaysinFaithTogether.org The Ark Mark O’Connor; Tickets: $35. The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 House, 415 N. Fourth Ave., Ann projects, family events, exhibits and films. Network Men’s Group 7 p.m. A support p.m. Aug. 25. 734-761-1800. TheArk.org Arbor. Aug. 17 - 18. 734-769-2999. group for bisexual, gay, and coming out kerrytownconcerthouse.com Bebe Neuwirth will star in “Stories with Piano” at 8 p.m. men, 21 and up. Single or partnered The Ark Blue Highway; Tickets: $25. The Saturday, Sept. 1 at The Berman. In this one-woman are invited to join the group. Weekly Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 7:30 p.m. PROFESSIONAL Aug. 26. 734-761-1800. TheArk.org masterpiece, Neuwirth will perform music by some of discussion topics and issues. The A Midsummer Night’s Dream $20 in the greatest songwriters of all time, including Kurt Weill-Brecht and Stephen Sondheim. Neuwirth Network, 345 Atlas Ave., Grand Rapids. The Ark Anders Osborne; Tickets: $20. advance, $25 at the door. Pigeon Creek 616-458-3511. Grlgbt.org The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 Shakespeare Company at Blue Lake Fine is known for her Tony Award-winning appearances in “Sweet Charity” and “Chicago,” as well as p.m. Aug. 23. 734-761-1800. TheArk.org Arts Camp’s Rose Theater, 300 E. Crystal playing Dr. Lilith Sternin on the television series “Cheers” and “Frasier.” Tickets are $46 for JCC Saturday, Sept. 1 Lake Rd., Twin Lake. 2 p.m. Aug. 26. 800- members and $56 for non-members. The Ark Studebaker John & The Hawks; 889-9258. www.bluelake.org Lesbian Euchre 6 p.m. No partner Tickets: $15. The Ark, 316 S. Main St., On Sunday, Sept. 2 at 7 p.m. the Festival hosts Broadway in HD, a film presentation of Stephen needed. For beginners to experienced. Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. Aug. 29. 734-761- Antony and Cleopatra $12. Pigeon Come join the fun and meet new friends. 1800. TheArk.org Creek Shakespeare Company at Dog Sondheim’s “Company,” at The Berman. The all-star cast includes Neil Patrick Harris, Patti LuPone Affirmations, 290 W. 9 Mile Road, Story Theatre, 7 Jefferson Ave. SE, and Stephen Colbert. Ferndale. 586-303-5977. lsbndanii@ The Majestic The Orpheum Bell; Tickets: Grand Rapids. Through Aug. 19. www. aol.com $5. The Majestic, 4140 Woodward DogStoryTheater.com For tickets, call 248-661-1900. The Berman is located at 6600 W. Maple Road in West Bloomfield. Avenue, Detroit. 8 p.m. Aug. 23. 313- 833-9700. MajesticDetroit.com Banana for Turtle $10 adult, $5 children. Sunday, Sept. 2 PuppetART at Detroit Puppet Theatre, 25 GOAL Book Club 4 p.m. Get Out and The Majestic The Atlas Moth; Hailing E. Grand River, Detroit. Through Aug. 18. Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills. the museum’s prints and drawings Live’s LGBT Book Club. Meets the first from Chicago, The Atlas Moth takes their 313-961-7777. www.puppetart.org June 16 - Oct. 14. 877-462-7262. collections. Detroit Institute of Arts, Sunday of every month at Five15 in bluesy hometown roots and combines ART ‘N’ AROUND CranbrookArtMuseum.org 2100 Woodward Ave., Detroit. June 11 - that with New Orleans style sludge, Boeing-Boeing $26-$39.75. Mason Royal Oak. Get Out And Live!, 515 S Ann Arbor Art Center “Five to Nine: Oct. 29. 313-833-7900. DIA.org riffy death metal and 60s psychedelic. Street Warehouse at Saugatuck Center Grand Rapids Art Museum “Cities in Washington, Royal Oak. 248-515-2551. An Exhibition of Extracurricular Work Tickets: $10. The Majestic, 4140 for the Arts, 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. Transition” This suite of interdisciplinary The Gallery Project “Quantified Self” GetOutAndLive.me From Creative Young Professionals” Woodward Avenue, Detroit. 8 p.m. Sept. Aug. 17 - Sep. 2. 269-857-2399. www. exhibitions and programs explores Artists examine the quantified self Along with a large collection of new The Conversation Station 5 p.m. 1. 313-833-9700. MajesticDetroit.com sc4a.org the many ways art, design, and from two unique perspectives: one, Weekly discussion group for LGBTQA drawings and paintings from Noellert, history shapes our understanding and how information about individuals is 25 and over. Week’s topic : Who or what OTHER BoxFest Detroit 2012 $10 day pass, Detroit-area photographer Daniel Ribar appreciation of the urban environment. collected, stored, processed, and used amazes you? Get Out And Live!, 714 S. $30 festival pass. BoxFest Detroit at brings imagery from the wilder parts of Preservation Detroit “2012 A variety of vantage points provide by these individuals and communicated Washington St., Royal Oak. 248-981- The Furniture Factory, 4126 Third northern Michigan, while local legend Preservation Detroit Theatre Tour” insights into how the constant evolution to others; and two how entities collect 4227. [email protected] St., Detroit. Through Aug. 18. www. Tucker Myers shares sharp insights from One of Michigan’s most unique tours. of cities responding to shifts in information about individuals and GetOutAndLive.me BoxFestDetroit.com his regular adventures in Mexico. Ann population, industry, and land use brings groups for commercial and other Includes box lunch at the Detroit Arbor Art Center, 117 W. Liberty St., Ann Transgender Lansing Group Meeting Opera House. Allow 4.5 hours for this Burn This $27-34. Performance Network both challenges and opportunities. purposes. The Gallery Project, 215 S. Arbor. July 27 - Sept. 2. 734-995-8004. Grand Rapids Art Museum, 101 Monroe Fourth Ave., Ann Arbor. Aug. 30 - Oct. 7. 6 p.m. Lansing chapter of Transgender tour, rain or shine. Tickets: $45 per Theatre, 120 E. Huron St., Ann Arbor. Annarborartcenter.org Michigan meets the first Sunday of person. Detroit Opera Theatre, 1526 Through Sep. 2. 734-663-0681. www. Center, Grand Rapids. June 1 - Aug. 26. 734-997-7102. TheGalleryProject.com 616-831-2904. Artmuseumgr.org every month from 6-9 p.m. Transgender Broadway St., Detroit. 9 a.m. Aug. 25. performancenetwork.org Ann Arbor Art Center “Janet Kohler University of Michigan Museum of Lansing, 469 N. Hagadorn, East Lansing. Preservationdetroit.org Pastels” Janet’s pastels and oils Get Back! Cast of Beatlemania $24.50 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts “Elliot Art “Flip Your Field: Abstract Art from Facebook.com/groups/56386266994/ have been exhibited nationally and Zumba Fitness with Chandra Floyd reserved pavilion; $15 general. Meadow Erwitt: Dog Dogs” This exhibition leaves the Collection” Entitled Flip Your Field, internationally and are included in many little question about Erwitt’s love of this series asks these guest curators to “Zumba Fitness in Midtown Detroit” Brook Music Festival, 3554 Walton Blvd., corporate and private collections. She Monday, Sept. 3 De-stress and party yourself into shape Rochester Hills. 8 p.m. Aug. 25. 800-745- man’s best friend. Erwitt proves that consider artwork outside their field of has received many honors and awards, our close relationship with dogs is due specialization from UMMA’s renowned LGBT Roundtable 7 a.m. The LGBT with this calorie scorching, exhilarating, 3000. www.palacenet.com and most recently was published in Roundtable is a group of LGBT and and easy to follow workout with Latin to mutual resemblance and emotion. collections to challenge their own Hot Dog Mondays $5. Planet Ant Theatre, the third of a series of drawing books: ally organization which get together and international music. Admission: Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, 314 S. Park thinking as well as that of UMMA’s 2357 Caniff Ave., Hamtramck. 313-365- Stroke of Genius 3-The Best of Drawing. to take about LGBT issues in Western $8 per class. International Institute, St., Kalamazoo. July 7 - Sept. 23. 269- audiences. University of Michigan 4948. www.planetant.com Ann Arbor Art Center, 117 W. Liberty St., Michigan. The LGBT Network, 343 Atlas 111 E. Kirby, Detroit. April 25 - Sept. 349-7775. KIarts.org Museum of Art, 525 S. State St, Ann Ann Arbor. July 1 - Aug. 31. 734-995- Arbor. June 9 - Sept. 2. 734-647-0524. Ave. SE, Grand Rapids. 616-458-3511. 26. 313-587-6203. Facebook.com/ Monty Python’s Spamalot $34. Barn 8004. Annarborartcenter.org Lawrence Street Gallery “All Girls, No Umma.umich.edu [email protected] Thenetwork@ ZumbaWithChandraMI Theatre, 13351 W. M-96, Augusta. Boys” A group of women artists who grlgbt.org Aug. 14 - 26. 269-731-4121. www. Charles H. Wright Museum of African meet regularly to critique each others’ University of Michigan Museum barntheatre.com American History “The Chris Webber PFLAG Richland 7 p.m. Meets works, organize art shows, and, above of Art “Jesper Just: “ Visitors of the Collection” Chris Webber, Detroit native, all, support each other in their artistic University of Michigan Museum of Art the first Monday of every month, Nymph Errant $10-$27. Tibbits Summer THEATER National Basketball Association All-Star endeavors. Lawrence Street Gallery, encountering Danish artist Jesper Just’s except Labor Day. PFLAG, 9400 East Theatre, 14 S. Hanchett St., Coldwater. player (retired) and NBA announcer, “This Nameless Spectacle” will find D Ave., Richland. 269-377-9401. Through Aug. 18. 517-278-6029. www. 22620 Woodward Ave. Suite A, Ferndale. FESTIVALS collects rare artifacts that illuminate the themselves captivated in stages, as the [email protected] tibbits.org Sept. 1 - Sept. 30. 248-544-0394. Renegade Theatre Festival 2012 lives and legacies of African American Lawrencestreetgallery.com experience of viewing it unfolds over greats such as Phillis Wheatley, the Three nights and one afternoon of free On Golden Pond $17.50-40. The Purple time. University Of Michigan Museum first African American author; Rosa theater at multiple venues throughout Old Rose Theatre Company, 137 Park St., Michigan State University Museum Of Art, 525 South State Street, Ann Parks, mother of the modern civil Town Lansing. Free. Aug. 16 - 18. www. Chelsea. Through Sep. 1. 734-433-7673. “Echoes of Silent Spring: 50 Years of Arbor. Aug. 21 - Dec. 9. 734-763-4186. MUSIC & MORE renegadetheatrefestival.org rights movement; civil rights leader, Environmental Awareness” The MSU www.purplerosetheatre.org umma.umich.edu Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and many Museum revisits the publication of CONCERTS Opera at The Acorn Open dress others. Charles H. Wright Museum of the landmark book, Silent Spring by University of Michigan Museum of Art Farmington Hills Department Cultural rehearsal Aug. 15 ($20). $30-$35. The African American History, 315 E. Warren, Rachel Carson, credited with launching “Judith Turner: The Flatness of Ambiguity” Arts “Farmington Community Chorus” Acorn Theater, 107 Generations Dr., Three Detroit. May 1 - Sept. 30. 313-494- the modern environmental movement. Judith Turner is a noted American Over 80 members, performing a mix of Oaks. Aug. 15 - 18. 269-756-3879. www. 5853. TheWright.org Michigan State University Museum, 409 photographer whose subject matter is pop, jazz & classical vocals, accompanied acorntheater.com W. Circle Dr., East Lansing. June 1 - Nov. mostly architecture. Turner’s training as a by fine musicianship and solos. Heritage Charles H. Wright Museum of African 30. Museum.msu.edu/?q=node/527 designer allows her to visually understand Park Amphitheatre, Heritage Park, Red, White and Tuna $20-25. American History “Great American an architect’s intention and to reveal it Farmington Road, Farmington Hills. 7 Williamston Theatre, 122 S. Putnam St., Artists - Part II: The Branches” Exhibition The Detroit Institute of Arts “Patti in compositions that she constructs and p.m. Aug. 23. FHGov.com Williamston. Through Aug. 19. 517-655- of new figurative works by artists Smith: Camera Solo” This is the first edits through her camera work. University 7469. www.WilliamstonTheatre.org Christopher Batten, Endia Beal, Halima American museum exhibition to focus of Michigan Museum of Art, 525 S. State Morels Steve Acho is performing Cassells, Alonzo Edwards, Sydney on the photography of artist, poet, at Morels owned by Jim Asmar and Speech & Debate $5. Drastic Theater St, Ann Arbor. June 9 - Sept. 2. 734-647- James, Gregory Johnson, Richard and performer Patti Smith. Smith’s 0524. Umma.umich.edu renowned chef Matt Prentice. Tickets: Company at The Elizabeth Theater, 2040 Lewis, Mario Moore, Sabrina Nelson photographs are infused with personal $60. Morels, 32729 Northwestern Hwy, Park Ave., Detroit. Through Aug. 19. www. and Senghor Reid. Charles H. Wright meaning and highlight the rich University of Michigan Museum of Art Farmington Hills. 6:30 p.m. Aug. 23. drastictheatercompany.com Museum of African American History, relationships between art, architecture, “Young-Hae Chang Heavy Industries” Steveacho.ticketleap.com/steve-acho--- Boeing-Boeing in Saugatuck The Great American Sex Farce 315 E. Warren, Detroit. May 3 - Sept. 1. poetry and the everyday. Detroit Institute The Seoul-based art collaborative, dinner-show-at-morels $15-$18. Broadway Onstage Live 313-494-5853. TheWright.org of Arts, 2100 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Young-Hae Chang Heavy Industries CIVIC/COMMUNITY THEATER June 1 - Sept. 2. 313-833-7900. DIA.org (YHCHI) is known for innovative video Olympia Entertainment The Gipsy Theatre, 21517 Kelly Road, Eastpointe. Cranbrook Art Museum “George Kings, known for hypnotizing the world Avenue Q Contains adult themes. $16- Through Aug. 18. 586-771-6333. www. works that exist at the nexus of visual 18. Farmington Players, 32332 W. 12 Mile Nelson: Architect / Writer/ Designer The Detroit Institute of Arts “Picasso art and digital literature. Blurring the with the infectious sound of their broadwayonstage.com / Teacher” The first comprehensive and Matisse” Pablo Picasso (1881- flamenco guitars. Tickets: $20-65. Fox Road, Farmington Hills. 248-553-2955. boundaries between media, technologies, The Judy Show $15. The Acorn Theater, retrospective of Nelson’s work. It 1973) and Henri Matisse (1869-1954) Theatre, 2211 Woodward Ave., Detroit. www.farmingtonplayers.org and cultural histories, YHCHI has gained 107 Generations Dr., Three Oaks. 8 has been touring in Europe and most were groundbreaking visionaries 7:30 p.m. Aug. 24. 313-471-6611. international acclaim for their “net art” Fiddler on the Roof $5-12. Warren Civic p.m. Aug. 16. 269-756-3879. www. recently in the United States at the who constantly experimented with Olympiaentertainment.com productions and videos. University Of Theatre at Warren Community Center, acorntheater.com Bellevue Art Museum in Seattle. techniques and materials. This Michigan Museum Of Art, 525 S. State 5460 Arden Road, Warren. Through Aug. Cranbrook Art Museum, 39221 exhibition features almost all of the St., Ann Arbor. Aug. 11 - Dec. 30. 734- 19. 586-268-8400. www.WarrenCivic.org works by Picasso and Matisse in 763-4186. Umma.umich.edu www.PrideSource.com August 23, 2012 | BTL 31 Classifieds 101-ANNOUNCEMNTS LGBT AA MEETINGS

Ann Arbor-Friday 7:30 pm, St. Andrews Episcopal Church Gay AA, 306 N. Division St. Closed/Discussion. To place a classified ad with us, Bloomfield Hills- Thursday visit PRIDESOURCE.COM/classifieds 7:00 pm ,Sobriety in The Hills Gay AA, Kirk in The Hills Church, or call us at 888.615.7003 ext. 22 1340 W. Long Lake Rd. Closed/ Discussion. 112 410 PROF. SERVICES Detroit-Tuesday / Friday ANNOUNCEMENTS - - GENERAL 8:00 pm, Downtown Gay AA, Fort Street Presbyterian Church, VOLUNTEERING 631 West Fort St. Closed/ Discussion (Open 1st Friday of RON & KEN’S GARAGE every month). VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Licensed Master Mechanics LAWNMOWER/SNOW BLOW- Farmington Hills- FOR DIFFA: DINING BY ER SALES AND SERVICE. 248- Monday DESIGN & ArtWorks 477-2922 FARMINGTON HILLS. Detroit 8:00 pm, Suburban West Gay AA, Universalist Unitarian Detroit’s most original event, 428 PROF. SERVICES Church, 25301 Halstead involving members of our (Between 10 & 11 Mile Roads) fabulous design community - MASSAGE Closed / Discussion. Cocktails by Design/Artworks for Life - Thursday, Sept. 13, Ferndale-Monday / 2012 Dining by Design - GROUP MASSAGE Saturday, Sept. 15, 2012 DIFFA: Wednesday / Friday - For Gay and Bisexual Men. Design Industries Foundation Learn some massage techniques 11:30 a.m., Brown Baggers Gay Fighting AIDS Benefits and meet others in a safe and AA, Affirmations, 290 West 9 Michigan AIDS Coalition www. caring environment. Tuesdays Mile Rd. Closed/Discussion. michiganaidscoalition.org - click and Saturdays at 8 p.m. on DIFFA Dining by Design Thursdays at 2 p.m. $10 per Ferndale-Wednesday Located at Joe Dumar’s Field session. 209 West Kingsley House, Detroit (in State Fair 8 p.m., Diversity Wednesday Gay in downtown Ann Arbor. Grounds) For information, AA, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, (734) 662-6282 or email contact Monica Mills at (248) 540 W. Lewiston @ Livernois. [email protected]. http:// 545-1435, ext. 117, or mmills@ Closed/Discussion. www.trymassage.com michiganaidscoalition.org Ferndale-Saturday 1 p.m. Brown Baggers Gay AA, 303 EMPLOYMENT - Affirmations, 290 West 9 Mile Rd. Closed/Discussion. SALES

8 p.m. Go After Your Sobriety Gay AA, Drayton Ave Presbyterian Church, 2441 Pinecrest. Closed/ SUBARU Sales Discussion. Sales Person needed. We pay base salary + commission. Must Livonia-Friday be computer literate. Apply in person at Hodges Subaru at 8 p.m., West Side Story’s Gay AA, Providence Medical Center, 23100 Woodward Avenue in 7 Mile & Newburgh. Closed/ FERNDALE. Discussion. Pontiac-Tuesday / Thursday / Sunday 8 p.m., Pontiac Gay AA, Shrine of St. Joseph, 400 West South Blvd. Closed/Discussion. Solution to puzzle from page 28 Warren-Monday 7:30 p.m., Eastside Serenity Gay AA, Faith-Trinity United Church of Christ, 12221 Martin Rd. East of Hoover. Closed/Discussion.

To place a classified

ad with us, visit PRIDESOURCE.COM/ classifieds or call us at 888.615.7003x22

32 BTL | August 23, 2012 www.PrideSource.com Deep Inside Hollywood

BY ROMEO SAN VICENTE Jodie Foster gets married to the mob The next time you see Jodie Foster in front of the camera it’ll be in “District 9” director Neill Blomkamp’s 2013 sci-fi epic “Elysium” with Matt Damon. And though her own directorial career has hit its share of potholes lately with the disastrously received (and, frankly, fairly underrated) “The Beaver,” Foster has a new direction: television. She will executive produce and direct a female-fronted mafia drama for Showtime titled “Angie’s Body.” Written by Rob Fresco (“Heroes,” “Jericho”), all the available information indicates that this is “The Sopranos” if they were run by Carmela instead of Tony. Now, that may sound gimmicky, but in a post-”Sopranos” world, we need something entertainingly mafia-based and right now the best we’ve got is “Mob Wives.” Now if Foster will just tell us for sure if she’s the star of the show and we’ll be all in.

Hugh Jackman joins Lee Jodie Foster. Photo: Myles Aronowitz Daniels MLK drama Alvarez behind the camera. Alvarez already “Precious” director Lee Daniels had a couple won the “Someone To Watch” Independent of period Civil Rights Movement dramas in Spirit Award for his 2009 film “Easier With the hopper, “Selma” and “The Butler,” as his Practice” and his dogged determination to win follow-up to the Oscar-winning film. But then over the reluctant author paid off with Sedaris’s he made “The Paperboy” with Zac Efron and blessing and cooperation. Now, who’ll play Nicole Kidman instead. (The one where, yes, his sister Amy? really, she urinates on him and apparently it’s completely unhinged and they hated it at Cannes – coming soon to a theater near you.) ‘Such Good People’ casts So now it’s back to the drawing board of the 1960s, this time with a different story called such a lot of gay people “Orders to Kill,” starring Hugh Jackman as This might sound more like the casting controversial attorney William Pepper, a man of the latest round of “Hollywood Squares,” who argued for decades that James Earl Ray, the all-homosexual version, but it’s not. It’s the convicted assassin of Dr. Martin Luther something a little more mysterious than that. King, Jr., wasn’t the man behind the crime It’s a film called “Such Good People” and it’s (his belief: the United States government did being billed as “a gay screwball comedy.” it). Hopefully it’ll all come together and be It has its own Facebook page and Twitter received enthusiastically in the wake of “The account, both of which just went up this month. Paperboy”’s eventual success. Lee Daniels did And it has a cast of almost exclusively lesbian not just pay us to say that. Promise. and gay names: Michael Urie (“Ugly Betty”), Lance Bass, Sandra Bernhard, Bree Turner Finally, a David Sedaris movie (“Grimm”), stand-up comic Alec Mapa, Jon Polito (“The Big Lebowski”), Drew Droege David Sedaris has, over the past 20 years, (aka the internet’s own “Chloe Sevigny”), turned into one of America’s most beloved Mitch Silpa (“Flight Attendant Steve” from humorists (though he’s spent most of that time “Bridesmaids”) and Randy Harrison (“Queer as living in Europe – look, the food really is a lot Folk”). What else is it about? Nobody knows; better in France). So you’d think that in all that that’s why it’s kind of mysterious. So if you time somebody somewhere could have gotten want to pretend you’re the Sherlock Holmes one of the author’s hilarious, first-person of film production and spy on the process stories shaped into a decent script with some unfolding in real time, just go link up to the funding. This, however, has not taken place, movie on social media. You’ll know everything mostly because the author himself is legendary before the official press releases get underway. for saying no. Until now. “C.O.G.,” based on a story from Sedaris’s best-selling collection “Naked” (about his time working as an apple- Romeo San Vicente’s whole life is a gay screwball picker in Oregon), will begin production in comedy. He can be reached care of this publication October with young filmmaker Kyle Patrick or at [email protected]. www.PrideSource.com August 23, 2012 | BTL 33 34 BTL | August 23, 2012 www.PrideSource.com