Lawyers Named In Historic SCOTUS Case

Josh Groban Opens Up About Gay Fans, Rumors

Indiana’s RFRA Receives ‘Avalanche’ Of Criticisms A NEW ERA Affirmations WelcomesDetroit Native Darrious Hilmon As Executive Director

WWW.PRIDESOURCE.COM APRIL 2, 2015 | VOL. 2314 | FREE

COVER 6 Affirmationselcomes w new executive director BTL Photo: Andrew Potter This guy comes up to me and goes, ‘Hey, I just want you to know, the bears love you.’ I’m like, ‘Excuse me? What?’ And I didn’t know what

Lawyers Named In Historic SCOTUS Case

Josh Groban Opens Up that meant! I’m like, ‘Are you a baseball team?’ About Gay Fans, Rumors

Indiana’s RFRA Receives ‘Avalanche’ Of Criticisms – Josh Groban, pg. 20

A NEWAffirmations Welcomes DetroitERA AsNative Executive Darrious Director Hilmon

FREE APRIL 2, 2015 | VOL. 2314 |

WWW.PRIDESOURCE.COM

NEWS 4 Backlash in Indiana over anti-gay SAVEYELLOW THE PAGES DATE CALENDAR ENTER TO WIN law 5 Lawyerswyers namedNamed forfor SCOTUSSCOTUS same-sex marriage case 7 Stabenow,w, PetersPeters commentcomment anan ACA anniversary 17 First trans population study launched 18 AIDS Partnershipartnership MichiganMichigan and HIV/AIDS Resource Center announce merger OPINION 4 Creepeep ofof thethe WeekWeek 14 Snyder:yder: thethe timetime toto talktalk isis overover 14 Partingarting GlancesGlances Pick Up Your Copy Of The Pride Source Yellow Pages Publicize Your Events Online Enter To Win Two Tickets To And In Print Today See The Blue Man Group WORSHIP GUIDE Pick up the 2014 Pride Source Yellow Pages at our drop sites Head over to Pridesource. Enter to win two tickets to see 10 A differenterent kindkind ofof CatholicCatholic churchchurch throughout southeast Michigan. Don’t forget! You can also access com/Calendar.html and tell Blue Man Group on April 21 at 12 Beattietie takestakes thethe helmhelm ofof UnityUnity the directory anytime online at Pridesource.com. us about your concerts, social the Fisher Theatre. Royal Oak gatherings, rallies and more and we’ll promote them online and in Enter at www.Pridesource. LIFE print with our calendar! com/tickets_contest.html 20 Josh Grobanoban bearsbears allall 24 Gay-ownedy-owned FerndaleFerndale businessbusiness winswins big 26 Happenings 30 Puzzle

VOL. 2314 • APRIL 2, 2015 • ISSUE 909 EDITORIAL CREATIVE ADVERTISING & SALES ONLINE AT Editor in Chief Art Director Director of Sales PRIDE SOURCE MEDIA GROUP Susan Horowitz, 734.293.7200 x 12 Benjamin Jenkins, [email protected] Jan Stevenson, 734.293.7200 x 22 “Between The Lines Newspaper” 20222 Farmington Rd., Livonia, Michigan 48152 [email protected] [email protected] Phone 734.293.7200 Webmaster & MIS Director Entertainment Editor Kevin Bryant, [email protected] Sales Representatives Follow us @YourBTL PUBLISHERS Chris Azzopardi, 734.293.7200 x 24 Ed Bohach, 734.293.7200 x 15 Susan Horowitz & Jan Stevenson [email protected] Contributing Writers [email protected] Charles Alexander, Michelle E. Brown, Email your op–eds to MEMBER OF Assistant Editor Todd Heywood, Jerome Stuart Nichols, Ann Cox, 734.293.7200 x 13 [email protected] Michigan Press Assoication Shelby Clark Petkus, [email protected] Eric W. Rader, Gwendolyn Ann Smith, [email protected] National Gay Media Association Christopher J. Treacy Sign up online to receive our E–Digest Q Syndicate Calendar Editor National Advertising Representative Shelby Clark Petkus, [email protected] Cartoonists Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 Paul Berg, Dave Brousseau Staff Writers Our rate cards are available online. All material appearing in Between The Lines is protected by federal copyright law and AJ Trager, [email protected] Contributing Photographers may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission Andrew Potter of the publishers. Between The Lines is supported by many fine advertisers, but we cannot accept responsibility for claims Copyright 2015 Pride Source Media Group, LLC made by our advertisers, nor can we accept responsibility for materials provided by advertisers or their agents. www.PrideSource.com April 2, 2015 | BTL 3 Mike Pence OPINION BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI The original federal law, which t’s a shame about what’s been happening to the Christians in Indiana Pence incorrectly claims ever since the godless homosexuals Itook over the state. Indiana’s law “mirrors,” was On Oct. 7, signed by Bill Clinton in 1993 2014 the gays finally realized in response to a specific their dream of destroying Supreme Court decision marriage in the that had nothing to do with Hoosier state. It was only green-lighting discrimination a matter of time before the gays against LGBT people (that would swapped the be the Defense of Marriage Mike Pence torch on the official state flag for a Act you’re thinking of). giant flaming penis Thousands of opponents of Indiana Senate Bill 101, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, gathered on the lawn of gripped in a fist. Pence incorrectly claims Indiana’s law the Indiana State House to rally against that legislation Saturday, March 28, 2015. Republican Gov. Mike Pence signed But before heterosexual couples were “mirrors,” was signed by Bill Clinton in a bill Thursday prohibiting state laws that “substantially burden” a person’s ability to follow his or her religious beliefs. AP forced to divorce and all of the children 1993 in response to a specific Supreme Photo/Doug McSchooler. were sent to gay-education camps, a Court decision that had nothing to do hero stepped up to save Indiana from with green-lighting discrimination the homos. against LGBT people (that would be That hero is Indiana Governor Mike the Defense of Marriage Act you’re Backlash In Indiana Over Anti-Gay Law Pence. And with the stroke of a pen, thinking of). Pence saved Indiana’s “Religious So-called religious freedom laws Liberty” by signing a bill that many have been popping up in recent years in RFRA Language Permits Discrimination say would legalize discrimination in direct response to LGBT people getting the state. equal rights. So-called Christians think And for some reason people are losing that their disapproval of LGBT people BY BTL STAFF RFRA and the federal RFRA are very different. their shit. should be given protection under the law The Indiana law explicitly allows any for-profit Thousands of people protested in so that they don’t have to bake cakes for INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana Gov. Mike Pence business to assert a right to the “free exercise of Indianapolis. Angie’s List, the company gay weddings. signed SB 101 March 26, which was authored with religion.” The federal RFRA doesn’t include that that tells you whether or not the plumbers So in Indiana you’ve got an interesting the intent of ensuring that the government cannot specific language and only one other state of the coming to your house are going to unclog situation where two men or two women force a citizen to violate their religious beliefs. 19 with RFRA bills, South Carolina, includes your toilet or strip the copper pipes from can get legally married, but they are In spite of overwhelming opposition from such language. Louisiana and Pennsylvania, for your walls, put a hold on expanding their not protected under the state’s anti- corporations, civil rights advocates and major example, explicitly exclude for-profit businesses business in the state. Wilco cancelled an discrimination laws. This presents convention organizers, Pence signed into law a from the protection of their RFRAs. upcoming concert. And #BoycottIndiana an opportunity for hateful folks. The sweeping bill that will allow individuals to use The Indiana law states: “A person whose is trending on Twitter and Facebook. so-called religious freedom law Gov. religion as an excuse to discriminate against the exercise of religion has been substantially Just what is everyone so mad about? Pence signed is a death rattle of a dying LGBT community and minorities. burdened, or is likely to be substantially burdened, The gays, of course. But they’re not anti-gay fringe seeking to harm LGBT “The timing of this legislation is important to by a violation of this chapter may assert the mad at the gays this time. They’re mad people when and where they still can and understanding its intent: The bill was introduced violation or impending violation as a claim or for them. expecting protection when they do so. as a backlash reaction to achieving marriage defense in a judicial or administrative proceeding, And it’s about damn time. When Gov. Pence claims that, “As equality for same-sex couples in Indiana,” said regardless of whether the state or any other As many people, including Pence governor of Indiana, if I were presented a Jane Henegar, executive director of the ACLU governmental entity is a party to the proceeding.” himself, are pointing out, Indiana isn’t bill that legalized discrimination against of Indiana. “We are deeply disappointed that the No other state that has passed RFRAs has the only state with a so-called religious any person or group, I would veto it,” he governor and state lawmakers have been tone-deaf language to such a degree. Texas, which passed its freedom law on the books. There’s even is either a liar or an idiot or both. to the cries of legions of Hoosiers – including RFRA in 1999, contains similar but not identical a federal one! And nobody is threatening A March 30 IndyStar editorial urges businesses, convention leaders, faith communities language. The Indiana statute explicitly recognizes to boycott those states. So what’s the big Pence and the legislature to clean up and more than 10,000 people who signed petitions that a for-profit corporation has “free exercise” deal about Indiana? their mess by passing LGBT inclusive against the bill – who say they don’t want this matching those of persons or churches, following There isn’t enough room in this discrimination laws. They, too, seem to harmful legislation to impair the reputation of our the example set by the U.S. Supreme Court in column to do a side by side comparison think that Pence is ignorant, willfully state and harm our ability to attract the best and 2014 with Burwell v. Hobby Lobby Stores, which of every religious freedom law in the or not: “Governor, Indiana is in a state brightest to Indiana.” determined that corporate employers have a country, but the language of Indiana’s of crisis. It is worse than you seem to Supporters of SB101 say that it is modeled religious veto over their employees’ statutory right law is clearly intended to allow, say, a understand.” after Arizona’s SB 1062 that Gov. Jan Brewer to contraceptive coverage and under RFRA could florist who doesn’t want to do bouquets It would be nice to see this giant vetoed last year following strong opposition from be considered persons. Ruth Bader Ginsberg had for a lesbian wedding to claim that Jesus misstep by Indiana’s right-wing actually the local and national business communities and called the majority ruling “a decision of startling told her she couldn’t without fear of move in the direction of making the state claims to also be highly influenced by the federal breadth.” reprisal. Religious Freedom Restoration Act. However, a more LGBT friendly. But I’m not holding See Indiana, page 16 The original federal law, which my breath. closer look into the bill will show that Indiana’s

4 BTL | April 2, 2015 www.PrideSource.com Lawyers Named For SCOTUS Same-Sex Marriage Case

BY AJ TRAGER day when all LGBT Americans will be able to marry the person they love.” WASHINGTON D.C. – Less than a month Bonauto joined the team of four lawyers before the U.S. Supreme Court will hear representing April DeBoer and Jayne Rowse arguments regarding the constitutionality of in December after SCOTUS agreed to hear same-sex marriage, the two lawyers who will the same-sex marriage cases from Michigan, present the case have officially been named. Ohio, Tennessee and Kentucky following a Lawyers from the Michigan, Ohio, decision from the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals Tennessee and Kentucky cases recently issued ruling in favor of states’ bans on same-sex a brief to SCOTUS requesting that argument marriage; that created a circuit court split. time for question one and two be divided The lawyers determined who would present between two lawyers, a request that was not the cases before the high court following favored by the high court. a series of intense negotiations. This past SCOTUS requested that a single weekend they met in Ann Arbor for a mock representative per question present before the competition that ran like the legal equivalent court and the petitioners have recognized Mary of a bake-off. The mock trial was only one L. Bonauto from the Boston based Gay and determining factor to who would represent the Lesbian Advocates and Defenders. She will couples seeking marriage equality. The choice represent question one discussing if the 14th of Hallward-Driemeier to represent question Amendment requires a state to issue same-sex two was determined before the weekend, marriage licenses, and Douglas Hallward- Reuters reported. The team of 37 lawyers from Driemeier, a partner in the Washington office the four states filed their brief with SCOTUS of Ropes & Gray, will represent question two March 31 stating who would present before addressing states’ recognition of same-sex the Court. marriages performed out of state. “April and Jayne’s family, and tens of “I’m humbled to be standing up for the thousands of families like theirs in Michigan, petitioners from Kentucky and Michigan will be represented by a dynamic litigator who who seek the freedom to marry, along with has a history of fighting and winning LGBT the Michigan team of Carole Stanyar, Dana rights cases in states and districts across the Nessel, Ken Mogill and Robert Sedler and country,” said Nessel, original co-counsel for with support from the other legal teams,” the DeBoer family in DeBoer v. Snyder. “We Bonauto said in a statement March 31. “The are very pleased that an attorney representing road that we’ve all travelled to get here has the DeBoer-Rowse family will be addressing been built by so many people who believe the issue of marriage equality for what we hope that marriage is a fundamental right. Same-sex will be the last time in our nation’s history.” Bonauto has never presented before SCOTUS but has been an integral force in the path for nationwide marriage equality. She is an architect of national same-sex marriage litigation and led the fight in Massachusetts on behalf of seven gay and lesbian couples seeking the freedom to marry in 2001 which led to the legalization of same-sex marriage in Massachusetts in 2004. Since then, with her dedicated work with GLAD, Bonauto has contributed Plaintiffs Jayne Rowse and April DeBoer in October 2013 outside the Federal to the same-sex marriage Courthouse in Detroit. The Michigan case is one of four before SCOTUS April 28. A decision expected to impact same-sex marriage nationally will efforts in Connecticut and be issued before the end of June. BTL File photo Maine along with her work on many other legal cases. Hallward-Driemeier leads couples should not be excluded from the joy, the firm’s appellate and SCOTUS practice the security and the full citizenship signified and has argued 14 cases before SCOTUS. by that institution. I believe the Court will give us a fair hearing, and I look forward to the See SCOTUS Lawyers, page 15 www.PrideSource.com April 2, 2015 | BTL 5 Affirmations Welcomes New Executive Director Detroit Native Darrious Hilmon Returns Home To Lead Agency

BY JASON A. MICHAEL it should be. It’s going to be because it is. From top to bottom, from side to side, it is part of the FERNDALE – Newly appointed DNA of this organization. This organization Affirmations Executive Director Darrious is going to continue to meet its promise to the Hilmon sat down with Between The Lines community, and that’s every member of the recently for a little “getting to know you” LGBT community and our allies... That is my session and shared a bit about the philosophies commitment to the organization, and I would he’s gleaned over the past two decades while imagine that for those of us who have been a working in strategy driven fund development, part of this history for a while, the mere fact event management and marketing. that I’m sitting here an African-American gay Born in Detroit and raised on the city’s east man leading this incredible organization, well, side, Hilmon was one of three children. His if that doesn’t tell you about the commitment mother was a strong woman and determined of this organization to truly be inclusive and that her boys should stay out of trouble. To serve the needs of this community, I don’t that end, she decided a move was in order and know what will.” relocated the family to the East Village area of Teamwork, said Hilmon, is key to the town just before Hillmon started high school. center’s success. He went to Kettering and graduated – after “We have an incredible team,” he said. “The only three years – in 1985. passion here... when I walked into this building From there, Hilmon moved on to the for my first set of interviews, it’s palpable. And University of Michigan where he majored in I always believe, if you find a group of people communication. who are passionate, that’s half the battle right “I was going to be a fantastic news anchor,” there. We can do the structure, we can do the Hilmon recalled. “Then I got a job in non- planning, the strategy. But if you find people profit, and I fell in love with it. I fell in who are passionate, people who at their core love with actually feeling like I’d made a I’m very clear as executive director that this is going to – the very root of their being – believe in what difference.” be an inclusive environment, and it’s not going to be because it they’re doing and the importance of it, we can Over the years, Hilmon has worked for “ get it done. We can get it done together.” the Mosaic Youth Theatre, the United Negro should be. It’s going to be because it is. From top to bottom, from Hilmon promises to do his part. College Fund, Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago “My love for this community, my belief and Northwest Indiana, Youth Guidance and, side to side, it is part of the DNA of this organization. that together we are more powerful than most recently, as vice president and chief we are apart, is real and solid,” he said. development officer for the Chicago Urban “I’m here to stay... and as long as I’m the League. – Darrious Hilmon executive director and this incredible team is “Non-profit work, working for a mission, is ” here, this is home, and I want people to feel so hard,” Hilmon said. “It really behooves you like they’re at home here. And if that’s not to take on missions that you believe in and that incredible work,” he said. “What we’re going place in all of this – as ACLU is doing their something they’re feeling, then we’re going play a key piece in your inner being, because to be doing is make sure that it’s much less important work, as Equality Michigan is doing to do something about that to make sure that the work is hard and the money is not always anecdotal and much more measurable, so that their important work, AIDS Partnership, Ruth they’re comfortable.” great. So I love every job I’ve ever had, with when we look you in the eye and go, ‘We’re Ellis – our role is to be the convener because rare exception.” doing transformational work for an important we have the house. It’s the community center. Now, Hilmon is eager to bring his experience community and our allies,’ we can mean that. “So that’s where I think ultimately we are. to Affirmations and is anxious to hit the ground We can say that with pride. Not that we believe But in addition to that, while those groups SAVE THE DATE running. it or we feel it intuitively, but that we can look are doing the advocacy and public policy “I have no interest in being a figurehead,” at it and go, ‘This is how we’re impacting and the lobbying – and we’re rallying there, said Hilmon. “I work. I’m here because I lives in all areas.’ We can measure the impact we’re bringing our troops in to support their Affirmations 2015 believe in this organization. I’m here because we’re making.” work because they’re the leaders there – I’m proud that this organization said, ‘You where we’re going to be the leader is creating Enchanted Spring know, we can be better. We’re going to be programs, supports and services. A community Bash The Convener that embraces, protects, supports the LGBT transparent about the things we know we need Black tie gala featuring open bar, seated gourmet to work on and improve. We’re going to put Hilmon’s passion is evident as he speaks community and its allies. I think it’s going dinner and premium live and silent auction. to be a hybrid of supports and programs, but our money where our mouth is. We’re going about his vision for the center. Tickets: $90-500 to walk the talk.’ That’s whats happening, and “Issues that impact our community: this is then programs that are more formalized based on evidence based models. That’s what we’re 7-11 p.m. on Saturday, April 11; I think because of that, this is an organization the place where I want those conversations VIP Admission at 6 p.m. happening,” he said. “I want our partners going to be.” that I want to be a part of. It’s an organization The Filmore with integrity.” to be able to come here. I want folks to say, Affirmations is also going to be, perhaps 2115 Woodward Ave., Detroit In his excitement, Hilmon speaks as if he’s ‘This just happened today, so you know there’s more than ever before, absolutely inclusive. already been a part of the Affirmations team going to be a meeting or a conversation or “I’m very clear as executive director that >> www.goaffirmations.org for some time. a forum at Affirmations. Let’s be a part of this is going to be an inclusive environment,” “What we do here at Affirmations is that.’ We don’t have to lead it. Our job, our said Hilmon. “And it’s not going to be because

6 BTL | April 2, 2015 www.PrideSource.com Stabenow, Peters Comment On ACA Anniversary BY BTL STAFF In recognition of the anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (or “Obamacare”), federal officials announced new localized In a 2014 Gallup-Healthways Well- enrollment data and provided specific results Being Index Poll, LGBT people were from the first five years of the ACA. Nationwide, more than 16.4 million people anywhere from 8 to 10 percent have gained coverage since the ACA passed – the largest reduction in the uninsured in four more likely to be uninsured or lack a decades. Since October 2013, over 700,000 Michiganders have received medical health personal doctor than their straight care coverage through the Marketplace, Medicaid and CHIP program. Of the 340,000 counterparts. They also experienced Michigan consumers who selected a plan through the Marketplace, 87 percent received more hurdles accessing health financial assistance to help pay for the plan. insurance and resources. Two years later there are now 16 different insurance companies that offer individual plans at different levels of coverage. “Since the Affordable Care Act was signed care. We know that the community faces higher into law five years ago, over 340,000 people rates of non insurance and discrimination in in Michigan have finally been given the the healthcare system,” Erin Knott, Michigan peace of mind knowing that they have state director of Get Covered America, told health insurance,” said U.S. Senator Debbie BTL before the Second Enrollment Period Stabenow. “While we have more work to do to back in October. “I know several lesbian make sure the law works in the most effective women who have not sought out health way, it is unconscionable that we would turn screenings because of that stigma or the fear our backs on families in Michigan by repealing of being discriminated against. I have tried to the law or taking away the tax credits that train staff and volunteers in LGBT history and make premiums affordable.” the experience among the LGBT community Today, the U.S. Department of Health and by raising awareness when working with Human Services released enrollment data folks.” for the following Michigan cities: 12,874 In Michigan, 341,183 consumers selected consumers in the Ann Arbor area; 12,954 plans or were automatically re-enrolled in consumers in the Lansing and East Lansing quality, affordable health insurance coverage areas; 10,719 consumers in the Kalamazoo- through the Health Insurance Marketplace as Portage area; 10,949 consumers in the Flint of Feb. 22, according to HHS. Additionally, area; 5,747 consumers in the Niles-Benton eight out of 10 Michiganders could select a Harbor area; 5,183 consumers in the Saginaw Marketplace plan for $100 or less per month, area; 5,067 consumers in the Muskegon area; and a vast majority of enrollees received an 4,199 consumers in the Jackson area; and average tax credit of $240. 3,882 consumers in the Monroe area selected “Nationwide, nearly 11.7 million consumers or were automatically enrolled in a plan. enrolled or re-enrolled in coverage this year. “Five years after passage of the Affordable This historic enrollment number shows that the Care Act, access to care has expanded across American people know the ACA is working the country, the number of uninsured continues for them,” said U.S. Department of Health and to drop and the cost of health care is growing Human Services Region 5 Director Kathleen at the slowest rate in five decades,” said Falk. “Thanks to the ACA, people can no U.S. Senator Gary Peters. “It’s clear this longer be denied health insurance because of law is having a tangible, positive impact on a pre-existing condition, healthcare spending Michigan’s families and our state’s economy. is increasing at the lowest rate in 50 years and While there are common sense fixes that can people no longer need to worry about being be made, we cannot afford to roll back this one illness away from bankruptcy.” progress and go back to a time when people Open enrollment in the Marketplace has could get kicked off their insurance plans or ended, but a Special Enrollment Period is denied critical coverage because of a pre- now available to consumers who are subject existing condition.” to the fee for not having health care coverage In a 2014 Gallup-Healthways Well-Being in 2014. Index Poll, LGBT people were anywhere Visit HealthCare.gov to learn more or discuss from 8 to 10 percent more likely to be options with a representative. For 2014 tax uninsured or lack a personal doctor than their penalties, call the federally facilitated Marketplace straight counterparts. They also experienced call center at 1-800-318-2596. For additional more hurdles accessing health insurance and information or to schedule an interview with resources. “We are aware that the LGBT individuals Kathleen Falk, please call 312-226-1788 or e-mail have long faced barriers for obtaining health [email protected]. www.PrideSource.com April 2, 2015 | BTL 7 The brief also settles back on Political Hors D’oeuvres the old chestnut that marriage is about procreation and child Swift Action From Lansing rearing – something the Michigan BY TODD HEYWOOD case proved beyond any shadow Public Transit Was Right of a doubt as untrue. Thing to Do Gov. Mike Pence Defends Of course, the 2004 ban was not motivated by animus towards BTL STAFF Against ‘Avalanche’ Of Criticisms Will Snyder get it right on Michigan’s Religious Freedom Restoration Act? the LGBT community either, the brief argues. Indiana’s Republican Gov. Mike Pence spent Last week, BTL and media partner Sunday defending attaching his signature to the Gov. Rick Snyder Mum On City Pulse reported on the experiences of Indiana Religious Freedom Restoration Act. His Glenn ‘Agenda Alert’ Slammed Lansing resident Diane and the Capital appearance on ABC’s “This Week” with George MiRFRA Area Transportation Authority. It was a mess Stephanopoulos – a former advisor to President By Mt. Pleasant Newspaper of bathroom indignities loaded over with Bill Clinton – was widely panned. Despite a national uproar on our southwestern bureaucratic snafus. border over Religious Freedom Restoration Acts, State Rep. Gary Glenn, who also serves as Lurking under the Indiana RFRA PR battle president of the American Family Association But CATA responded properly, and promptly. is an insidious shift to theocratic government. Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder is staying mum Not only did they immediately address Diane’s about MiRFRA pending in the state Senate. of Michigan, caused a national uproar last Pence was widely mentioned as a likely GOP week when he issued an “Agenda Alert” over concerns – and apologize to her – they issued Presidential candidate – until RFRA exploded. “We’re waiting to see what comes from the a directive to staff at the transportation center legislature; if anything comes,” says Snyder the Midland Daily News’ announcement it had Now many are dismissing his potential as a appointed an openly gay man to a news editor in Lansing. Said directive ordered staff to allow candidate, claiming the RFRA debate has made spokesman Dave Murray. people to use the bathroom of their gender When pushed as to whether or not the governor post. him damaged goods. On Saturday, The Mt. Pleasant Morning Sun identity without discussion of said individual’s Don’t count on it. For all the bloviating swirling believed a MiRFRA needed to be paired with gender identity. amending the state’s civil rights act, Elliott- used editorial space to slam the lawmaker’s alert. around Indiana’s RFRA, the howls of “license to “Ironically, what Glenn has really accomplished It seems like a simple thing to do. But for discriminate” from one side and the screeches Larsen, Murray deflected. the transgender community and the gender “The governor has spoken often about the need with this agenda alert is to alert everyone to of delight on the win for “religious freedom” on his own agenda and to remind all of us why nonconforming community, this was a massive the other, the reality is fundamentalist Christian to discuss amending Elliott-Larsen,” Murray move in the right direction. It acknowledged says. antidiscrimination (sic) laws and ordinances theocrats are on the rise in the U.S. really are needed. In today’s more-accepting the fundamental reality that all people deserve Let’s not make any mistake about that. And yes, Snyder made it a point in his State to be treated with dignity and respect. of the State speech in January, but Speaker of society, we sometimes think those types of laws One need only look to the only declared aren’t necessary, that discrimination is in the This action did not happen in a vacuum presidential contender – Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas the House Kevin Cotter rejected that discussion however. Behind the scenes, East Lansing out of hand. He told reporters the legislature has past,” the editorial team wrote. “Glenn’s anti- – to affirm that reality. Cruz chose Liberty homosexual views are well known. For years, his Mayor Nathan Triplett, who has been a tireless University to make his announcement, and that already had that discussion. It’s also a discussion ally to the LGBT community and who serves that has been going on in the state legislature critics have accused him of being homophobic was no mistake for the rise of the American and a hate monger.” on the Board of Directors for CATA, worked Theocrats. since 1981. directly with staff at the agency to address The editorial went on to quote the Midland Peppered throughout his announcement Daily News’ introduction of the new editor. the situation as soon as it was brought to speech, Cruz openly called on evangelicals to his attention. Amy Hunter, who works with Schuette Shifts Legal Arguments “There was a time when straight people didn’t take to the voting booths and “vote our values.” state that they were divorced, or living together,” both the ACLU of Michigan and Equality Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee is In Marriage Case Michigan, also worked with staff at CATA to the editorial team wrote. “There was a time when expected to throw his hat in the ring again this Michigan’s Republican Attorney General Bill gay people didn’t admit to their relationships. assure the language of the directives was year for the GOP nomination. So is Pence. Expect clear and affirmative. Lansing officials have Schuette on Friday joined Ohio, Kentucky and We live in a new era. We believe Glenn’s view a lot of pandering to the American Theocratic Tennessee in filing a new brief in the historic that it does not reflect the Midland community also moved quickly to make sure complaints establishment by the GOP. Despite the negative about potential discrimination and violations of marriage equality cases pending before the U.S. is outdated. Gay marriage has growing support press garnered by Indiana’s RFRA, Pence has Supreme Court. nationwide and it’s doubtful the 2004 amendment the city’s human rights ordinance do not fall become a darling of the right wing American through the cracks again. The Detroit Free Press reports the new filing would pass if it were voted on today. We know Theocrats. And he could very well use that argues that the Constitution is silent on marriage, Gary Glenn isn’t going to change his views. But CATA should be commended for its fast, darling status to ramp up a presidential bid. careful response and its affirmation that thus the courts have no ability to intervene. this controversy has brought them to light in a everyone matters. The brief argues that ruling on marriage would new way. If Glenn truly wants to represent the “indicate a lack of faith in democracy” and would views of his constituents, he should focus on the undercut “the very dignity” of gay and lesbian issues that matter: Roads, taxes, schools, prisons, couples seeking to marry. the state budget, just to name a few.”

8 BTL | April 2, 2015 www.PrideSource.com

BTL Spring Worship Guide A Different Kind Of Catholic Church LGBT-Inclusive Spring Worship Events

COMPILED BY SHELBY CLARK PETKUS Community Of Christ Metropolitan Community Church of Detroit, MCCD The Good Shepherd 2441 Pinecrest Dr., Ferndale www.mccdetroit.org Worship, 11 a.m., April 5 Celebrates Second

Ferndale First United Methodist Church Anniversary 22331 Woodward Ave., Ferndale Good Friday Joint Service with MCCD, 7 p.m., April 3 BY JASON A. MICHAEL

Timothy Lutheran Church FERNDALE – The Catholic church 8820 Wayne Road, Livonia is not exactly known for tolerance. But Community of Christ the Good Shepherd www.timothylutheranchurch.com is not the typical Catholic church. Maundy Thursday, Seder Meal with Sole and Soul, 6 p.m., April 2 “We’re Catholic, but we’re not Roman The ministerial staff of the Community of Christ the Good Shepherd. Photo by Rafael Pacheco Good Friday Services, 12 p.m. and 7 p.m., April 3 Catholic,” said Father Kevin Kinsel. “So Easter Breakfast, 8:30 a.m., April 5 it’s about educating people that there are where we welcome all people to the table yet Rome wouldn’t confer that because Easter Worship, 10 a.m., April 5 other churches that are Catholic that are regardless of sexual orientation, race, of the rules. That’s not the box in which not Roman Catholic.” background or marital status. All people we put people. It’s rewarding to be able As their second anniversary Woodside Church are valued and welcome.” to confer the sacraments to who we are approaches, informing people that they 1509 E. Court St., Flint Though Kinsel and Posner, as well as people to each other. That’s fulfilling are an independent Catholic church www.woodsidechurch.net as Father Charles Blanchard, are gay, to me.” continues to be a struggle. the three are adamant that the church Still skeptical? Does it all sound a little Sunday Worship, 11 a.m., April 5 “The hardest part is getting the word congregation is diverse and they note that too good to be true? out that we’re here and we’re welcoming their two deacons are women. “I’ve heard some people doubt and Zion Lutheran Church of all people,” said Father Harry Posner. “We wanted to establish a church say that we’re a ‘made up church,’” 143 Albany St., Ferndale “When a lot of people hear we’re where it was not a gay church per se but Posner said. “We are validly ordained Catholic, they think that we’re closed- www.facebook.com/zionferndale a church where everybody is an equal Catholic priests. We are a valid church. minded or we’re not welcoming, or Maundy Thursday, 7 p.m., April 2 valued member,” Posner said. “We have Just because we’re outside of Rome does that we’re very black and white in Good Friday Worship, 12 p.m., April 3 almost as many straight people as we not diminish our validity. We truly are a our thinking. But that’s not the case. Service of Darkness, 7 p.m., April 3 have LGBT people. It’s a community Catholic church. We truly are a part of We’re non-judging. So we’ve shown where everybody is valued.” the Catholic tradition. We are just a fresh Breakfast, 9 a.m., April 5 tremendous growth (over the last two And people are responding to the approach to the Catholic faith where Worship with Holy Communion, 10:30 a.m., April 5 years) but it’s slow and it’s hard because approach. we don’t marginalize people, we don’t there’s a lot of doubt in the community. “I think that the most rewarding aspect separate people. We invite everyone to Divine Peace Metropolitan Community Church People have been so marginalized by is that people come here and they’re the church; everyone has a home here.” religion. So we’re offering another path, 1400 Scott Lake Road, Waterford satisfied,” said Blanchard. “They leave and that is that God loves you just as you Community of Christ the Good Shepherd www.dpmcc.net and they say, ‘Thank you for creating are and you don’t have to fit into a picture Independent Catholic Church meets in Good Friday Worship, 7 p.m., April 3 such a great home for me to worship perfect box to be loved.” Easter Breakfast, 8 a.m., April 5 in.’ I’ll give you an example. There’s a the second floor chapel of the First United It’s true. All are welcome here. couple that were raised Roman Catholic. Methodist Church in Ferndale, located at Easter Worship, 10 a.m., April 5 “We felt the need within the Catholic They were each married before and both 22331 Woodward Ave. Sunday Mass is at community to have a church that was of them lost their spouses. They wanted 10 a.m. For more information, visit www. open to all people,” explained Posner, the sacramental blessing of a priest and ferndalecgs.com. See Worship Events, page 13 “so we have an open communion table

10 BTL | April 2, 2015 www.PrideSource.com A Different Kind Of Catholic Church

www.PrideSource.com April 2, 2015 | BTL 11 Beattie Takes The Helm Of Unity Royal Oak BY JASON A. MICHAEL

ROYAL OAK – Rev. Ric Beattie, who turns BTL Spring Worship Guide 60 this year, grew up in Lake Orion, Michigan at a time when the area was still semi-rural. say a few words. Beattie was incredulous. By the age of 12 or 13, Beattie knew he was A woman pastor? There was no such thing. different from other boys his age. Nevertheless, he agreed to attend the service. “I liked boys a whole lot more than I liked And as it started, something special began to girls,” he recalled. “I struggled to find some happen. role models. Back then one of the few places “I felt an amazing amount of love there,” where I felt safe to go was the library at remembered Beattie. “I noticed that there were Oakland University. I would go there and read same gender couples holding hands, and they books. I started to put words to my feelings were having church. There was music and a and learn what homosexuality was.” powerful message, and it was a real church. What he quickly learned was that When it got time for me to say something, homosexuality was bad and against his I couldn’t stop crying. And in that moment, God reclaimed me – or I reclaimed God – and I had a connection with something bigger. Suddenly, the God of my childhood shattered. The hateful, vengeful God in my mind shattered.” Thus began Beattie’s journey with MCC. For the next several years, in between a brief move to Los Angeles, Beattie became student clergy and a deacon. Then a friend asked him to visit another church. “It was called Unity Rev. Ric Beattie of the Infinite Presence (which later became Church of Today and is now church’s teachings. Renaissance Unity),” Beattie, who recalled “I grew up a very devout Roman Catholic being immediately impressed, said. “I thought, kid,” said Beattie. “I spent a couple years ‘Here’s a church that doesn’t ask me to check praying that God would change me because I my mind at the door.’ There were concepts wanted very much to be pleasing to God… At about God that blew my mind. One of the the age of 17 or 18, I basically said to hell with ideas that really stuck with me from the very (God), because not only was I not changed but first Wednesday night was the idea that Jesus I was getting gayer all the time. So, you know, could either be the great exception or the great I was frustrated.” example. Jack (Boland) said something that That frustration led to Beattie walking away night that has haunted me forever since. He from his faith. said there are at least two Christianities at work “For several years I shifted into the mode in our world. One is a system of beliefs and that most people call agnostic,” he said. “I principles that a man named Jesus of Nazareth knew there was something, but I wasn’t sure lived and taught. And the other is a myth and what and I didn’t really care. I discovered cult about that man. That was like a lightning booze, boys and bars and thought to myself bolt in my mind.” that since I was going to hell anyway, I might For the next few years, Beattie attended as well have some fun.” MCC on Sunday and Unity on Wednesday But the fun all ended when his roommate night. and longtime friend, Steven Smith, who was “I did that back and forth,” he said. “I found also gay, shot and killed himself. that I was going to MCC for the community, “Steven put a gun to his chest and pulled the because at the time, although there were trigger, and I happened to be in the room,” said certainly a number of gay people at Unity, they Beattie. “Steven died in my arms.” weren’t very out about it. But intellectually, In the midst of making funeral preparations, and from a teaching standpoint, Unity Beattie received a call from Rev. Nancy resonated with me more strongly than MCC.” Wilson, who identified herself as the pastor Though he had found a spiritual home, of something called Metropolitan Community there was still turbulence in Beattie’s life. He Church of Detroit. Wilson explained that they moved back to Los Angeles for a while for were planning to memorialize Smith at their work, developed a cocaine addiction, lost his Sunday service and invited Beattie to come See Unity, next page

12 BTL | April 2, 2015 www.PrideSource.com ® Unity Continued from p. 12 ® Worship Events Holy Faith Church Continued from p. 10 father, moved back to Michigan to take over 6299 Saline-Ann Arbor Road, Saline his father’s manufacturing business, ushered www.holyfaithchurch.org it through a growth spurt and then watched Spirit of Hope Church Holy Thursday Soup & Sandwich Supper, 5:30 p.m., April 2 helplessly as it failed. But, as he entered 1519 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. recovery, he found he could no longer deny Detroit Mass of the Lord’s Supper, 7 p.m., April 2 his calling. www.spiritofhopedetroit.org “I said, ‘OK, God, this thing you’ve always Good Friday Outdoor Stations of the wanted me to do, I’ll do this,’” Beattie said. Cross, 12 p.m., April 3 “So I was ordained. I took a job at Church of First Unitarian Universalist Veneration of the Cross, 7 p.m., April 3 Congregation of Ann Arbor Today as its executive administrator working Blessing of Food Baskets, 11 a.m., for Marianne Williamson, who was our 4001 Ann Arbor-Saline Road, Ann Arbor April 4 spiritual leader at the time. Marianne really www.uuaa.org Confessions, 3:30 p.m., April 4 ignited in me a long held belief that love could Plant-Powered Family Potluck for Earth Easter Vigil, 8:15 p.m., April 4 Day, 12 p.m., April 4 change the world. She also allowed the gay Easter Sunday Services, 7 a.m., 9:30 community to be very out there and open, a.m., 11:15 a.m., 11:30 a.m. (Upper which had not been the case with Jack.” Trinity Lutheran Church Hall), April 5 Then, in 2004, Beattie had a mild heart 1400 Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor attack. www.trinityaa.org Journey of Faith Christian Church “I began to think seriously, ‘If I’m going to Maundy Thursday Worship, 6:30 p.m., 1900 Manchester Road, Ann Arbor make this leap into ministry, I should probably April 2 Last Supper Service, 6:30 p.m., April 2 do it,’” he said. Good Friday Worship, 7 p.m., April 3 Beattie was invited to speak at Unity Good Friday Service at Church of the Easter Vigil Dinner and Workshop, 5 Good Shepherd, 7 p.m., April 3 Church of Clare, Michigan. p.m., April 4 “I went up there to speak a few times and the Easter Breakfast, 9 a.m., April 5 Easter Vigil Worship, 6:30 p.m, April 4 lady ended up hiring me,” said Beattie. “For Easter Egg Hunt for kids, 10 a.m., about 39 weeks it was interesting because I Easter Breakfast, 9 a.m., April 5 April 5 spoke every Sunday. Then I didn’t renew my Celebration Service, 11 a.m., April 5 Easter Worship, 10:30 a.m., April 5 contract because I knew I had to either move to Clare, and it wasn’t financially in the cards First Unitarian-Universalist Church St. Philip Lutheran Church for me to move there. So I gave up Clare, and of Detroit 1790 Fort St., Trenton about two weeks later, Renaissance Unity 4605 Cass Ave., Detroit www.stphilipelca.org called me.” www.1stuu.org Service, 10:30 a.m., April 5 RU asked Beattie if he would take an Worship Service, 11 a.m., April 5 interim position as director of youth and Introduction to First Church, 12:30 Congregation T’Chiyah family ministry. Then, about six weeks p.m., April 5 later, they asked Beattie to take the position 15000 W. 10 Mile Road, Oak Park permanently and become a full member of the www.tchiyah.org King of Kings Lutheran Church ministerial team. Community Seder, April 4 “What was intriguing to me was that I’d 2685 Packard St., Ann Arbor www.kingofkingslutheran.org gotten in touch with the fact that I had a deep Lord of Light Lutheran Campus yearning to be a dad,” Beattie said. “I guess I Maundy Thursday Service, 7 p.m., Ministry April 2 always had. But for gay men of my generation, 801 S. Forest Ave., Ann Arbor Good Friday Service, 7 p.m., April 3 that wasn’t really an option unless you were www.michiganlutherans.org hiding out in a marriage. So in response to that Easter: First Worship Service, 7:30 a.m., April 5 Good Friday Tenebrae Service, 7 p.m., deep yearning, I now had 304 young people April 3 in our program. So I suddenly had all these Easter Breakfast, 8:45 a.m., April 5 Easter Worship Service followed by kids and it grew me in ways that surprised me, Easter: Second Worship Service Easter Brunch and Egg Hunt, 11 a.m., and it was just a wonderful time in my life.” (Special Music), 10:45 a.m., April 5 April 5 Beattie was eventually moved up to associate minister for the whole church. But still, there was a longing in his heart to do Beattie. “One of the challenges for you call God. Buddhists are just as more. Renaissance Unity, because it’s so welcome here as Catholic folks… I “I’ve always wanted to be a senior minister,” large and has such a huge footprint, preached a message at Renaissance he said. “The difference being that Jim’s the is that it’s inherently a commuter Unity about four years ago where principle speaker, and I had some things that I church. It’s hard to get people to come I said that if we’re not willing to felt called to say. So when the pulpit in Royal more than once a week. For some do some things to make God’s love Oak became open it shocked me. The board people, it was a big drive. So one of real, then I don’t want to hear about and I had some conversations, but it wasn’t the things I’m hoping to do here is any more. For me, God is a verb and coming easy so I kind of let it go.” connect deeply in this community.” Christianity is not a spectator sport. Then they asked him back to speak again in “At Unity we’re about And the folks at Unity Royal Oak January and the talks began once more. Now, inclusiveness, oneness, that we’re are ready. We’re creating something Beattie will take over as senior minister of all reflections of one light,” Beattie brand new from the ground up.” the church beginning with this week’s Good continued. “We’re really building Friday service. a community here, a neighborhood “One of the things that excites me about Unity Royal Oak is located at 2500 where people can come together coming to Royal Oak is the opportunity to Crooks Road. For more information, visit and support each other regardless of connect deeply to this community,” said who you are or who you love or who unityroyaloak.org. www.PrideSource.com April 2, 2015 | BTL 13 Well Bless Our Hate! Parting Glances

OPINION BY CHARLES ALEXANDER

ust in time for Easter 2015, Fools for Christ – an American Bible group headquartered in Lumbago Falls, Texas – held a press conference Palm Sunday to publicize “National Hate JSomeone Special for Jesus Week.” Fools for Christ spokesperson Rev. Franklin Falwell Robertson called the press conference, “a clarion trumpet call to all true believers marching as to war with the cross of Jesus going on before.” The militant media event – covered by a coalition of several tax- free televangelist broadcast stations and nosey shopping market tabloids – followed a stirring sermon by Rev. F. F. Robertson called succinctly: “Hate the sin.” Don’t forget to hate the sinner. (For Jesus). “As twice-born true believers, we’ve been turning our other cheeks far too long,” said Rev. Robertson. “With fast approaching time of the Left Behind just around the corner, we need to return to militancy values of Christian centuries long, long gone by. “Say what you will Doubting Thomases, but the Crusades (especially the Children’s Crusade), the Inquisition with its beacon of repentance, the burning stake and an occasional pogrom now and then, had merit in saving souls, no matter how harsh or seemingly bigoted the Christian strategy. Gov. Snyder: The Time To Talk Is Over “For a time, slavery seemed a viable option, too. (It does have New Testament blessing, by the way.) But, for whatever reason of BTL EDITORIAL Gov. Snyder has been just as cautious when it comes to Divine Intervention, God permitted the Civil War. Don’t get me wrong – war has its place. (Thank Heaven for Christians Cheney the so-called “religious freedom” bills. He wants to wait and and Bush. And hopefully Jeb.) “So that there’s no misunderstanding where Fools for Christ is ichigan’s Republican Gov. approach the legislation and evaluate it after it passes. coming from on its Last Day’s strategy of hating sinners for Jesus, Rick Snyder has made a By then, it will be too late. The governor must do what let me emphasize: we are not engaging in our own honest hatred political career treading Mcarefully on the edges of controversy. because we of late have been the persecuted minority following he was elected to do – he must stand up and lead. our policy on shunning gays, speaking out against feminism and Rarely does he tip his hat and tell the telling other religions they are satanic or too financially competitive. electorate – the people who put him “Oh, no. Our interest is solely making America a Christian in office – where he stands on many who is beholden to the unholy trinity of the LGBT community down the Nation. If active hate does the trick, so much the better. If creative legislative issues. Tea Party theocrats Reps. Gary Glenn, proverbial river to accomplish more Christian hate can change things for national uniformity sake, it’s An amendment to the state’s R-Midland, Todd Courser, R-Lapeer, economic paybacks for his wealthy just steps away from making church attendance mandatory for civil rights act to protect the LGBT and Cindy Gamrat, R-Plainwell – has and connected donors? citizenship; making America’s leaders religiously Republican in community, pending religious declared such discussions are over. Let there be no mistake – the their economic outlook. Theocracy with a capital T. discrimination in adoption bills and The governor has been just as adoption discrimination bills, “But in all fairness to sinners in need of a touch or two of the Michigan Religious Freedom cautious when it comes to the so-called MiRFRA and even the debate about blessed hate: there are degrees of sin. It’s easy to hate a murderer Restoration Act are such scenarios “religious freedom” bills. He wants to Elliott-Larsen are intimately tied to or someone who commits adultery, or, someone who masturbates or where Snyder is playing coy with the wait and approach the legislation and the pending Supreme Court hearings watches porn. Worse yet, someone who fails to tithe to the church. electorate and it is time for that to end. evaluate it after it passes. By then, it on marriage equality. The theocrats “It’s important to express hatred that gets national soul-saving Snyder will likely only say he will be too late. The governor must do who overpopulate the Michigan publicity. The more outrageous. The more nefarious. The better! thinks the legislature should have what he was elected to do – he must GOP – as represented by the ongoing “When it comes down to it, in God’s eyes, refusing to serve gays more discussions on Elliott-Larsen. stand up and lead. support of Dave Agema as a national in your place of business because of your Trinitarian beliefs, or to But this state has been having such And leadership – bold leadership committeeman – want to retain the bake a wedding cake for a same-sex couple, or to deny adoption discussions since former Republican – requires that Gov. Snyder not ability to discriminate against anyone rights to gays and lesbians are all socially redemptive actions. lawmaker Jim Dressel, R-Holland, dance around the issue. He needs who does not reflect their narrow “Biblically speaking, it’s just the Old Testament ritual of introduced an amendment in 1981. to publicly stand up against the religious belief system. The theocrats scapegoating. A time-honored tradition, by the way. Stars in your The evidence is clear and convincing – adoption discrimination bills and want nothing more than to legislate crown. protecting the LGBT community from MiRFRA. If he does support those their beliefs. It’s un-American. And “I want to thank all of you for being here today. It’s your turn discrimination is good for business bills, Michiganders have a right it’s time for this governor to stand now to go out and be a Fool for Christ. Just for practice sake, and good for the economy. Dragging to know that as well. Will Gov. up and do the right thing instead of turn to the person seated on your left or on you far right and say, out useless conversations about human Snyder stand up for all Michiganders cowering in the political shadows ‘You’re going to Hell!’ dignity won’t help, particularly when and against the rightwing theocrats waiting to see which way the political “Have a joyful Easter! Hate is Risen with the Late J. C. Amen!” Speaker of the House Kevin Cotter – of his own party; or will he sell winds will blow.

14 BTL | April 2, 2015 www.PrideSource.com Michigan Graduate Named New Head Of LGBT Congressional Staff Association WASHINGTON D.C. – Mitchell Rivard, a graduate of Steeped in Italian tradition Michigan State University and communications assistant for with a refreshing modern twist! former Governor Jennifer Granholm, has been named the new lead of the LGBT Congressional Staff Association. Casual-fine dining room He was the first in his family to attend college and became heavily involved with the college Democrats when the Legislature targeted the merit-based Promise Scholarship in 2009. It was through the “Keep Our Promises” campaign that he befriended Gov. Granholm. Rivard initially intended to go to law school, but the Hill beckoned and he landed a position as a press intern for House Minority Leader Nancy Extensive Wine List Pelosi, D-Calif., in 2011. Working as Free WiFi Internet Access an intern, Rivard joined the LGBT Located across from Comerica Park Mitchell Rivard Staff Association and began developing & Detroit Opera House opportunities while moving up the ranks. Rivard worked in various 1565 Broadway, Detroit, MI 48226 communications roles in both Washington, D.C. and Michigan. 313 962 1355 angelinadetroit.com Most recently, he served as a presidential appointee at the U.S. Department of Justice, where he handled public relations for the department’s Civil Rights Division. Rivard works as the deputy chief of staff for Democratic U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee of Michigan’s 5th congressional district and assumed his executive position at the association in January. Rivard, along with the board, plans to broaden the organization. Even though many of the members are Democrats, the group holds bipartisan sponsorship between Reps. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, R-Fla., and Jared Polis, D-Colo. The LGBT Association has expanded efforts, such as developing further relationships with the president of the Log Cabin Republicans, an organization that works within the Republican Party to advocate LGBT rights in the U.S. Credibility And “The three pillars we’re working on are more Republicans, more women and more people of color,” Rivard told rollcall. Reach That com. In a statement, Kildee said of Rivard, “I’m proud of his work not only in my office, but also with the LGBT Congressional Delivers Staff Association, where he’s working with Republicans and Democrats on efforts on Capitol Hill to fight for fairness and equality for everyone.”

® SCOTUS Lawyers Continued from p. 5 Online • In Print

He was the assistant to the Solicitor General from 2004-2009 where he actively argued before SCOTUS and filed over 150 briefs. Hallward-Driemeier’s most recent case before SCOTUS was Executive Benefits Insurance Agency v. Arkison, a case regarding bankruptcy judges’ jurisdiction. Arguing for the four states and against same-sex marriage will be John Bursch, a former Michigan solicitor general who has argued eight cases before SCOTUS between 2011 and 2013, and Joseph Whalen, a Tennessee associate solicitor general focused primarily in the areas of employment litigation, labor law and commercial litigation. Currently, 37 states including the District of Columbia permit same-sex marriage, an effort that was expedited in October when SCOTUS refused to hear the appeals from states that had not yet ruled on same-sex marriage but fell under the decisions made by appellate courts. Oral arguments are to be heard by SCOTUS on April 28 with an expected decision by the end of June. www.PrideSource.com April 2, 2015 | BTL 15 ® Indiana company’s proposed plan to use $18 not to discriminate against the LGBT Continued from p. 4 million in state and city aid to expand community. In an Op-Ed written for the its headquarters. Wall Street Journal, Pence states the bill In response to Gov. Pence’s public Marc Benioff, CEO of Salesforce, “has been grossly misconstrued.” support of the bill, widespread a $4 billion software giant known for “I want to make clear to (Indiana discontent was voiced by business and its customer relationship management residents) and every American that faith communities: Indianapolis Colts applications, has already noted that they despite what critics and many in the player Pat McAfee, Salesforce, the are now forced to dramatically reduce national media have asserted, the law Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) investment in the state because of is not a ‘license to discriminate,’ either and Jason Collins, the first in Indiana or elsewhere,” Pence openly gay NBA player. wrote. A letter from nine Indiana Republicans pledged Indiana CEO signatories March 30 to clarify the bill. – which had some of the The ACLU of Indiana and an state’s largest employers anti-RFRA coalition called for including Eli Lilly, two major changes to the bill: Anthem and Indiana updating the state’s civil rights University Health – law to prohibit discrimination arrived on Pence’s desk against gay, bisexual and Monday stating “ (we are) transgender Indiana residents deeply concerned about in employment, housing and the impact it (RFRA) is public accommodations and having on our employees clarifying that RFRA can’t and on the reputation of be used to undermine local our state.” Other signees or statewide civil rights of the letter include: protections. Bill Oesterle, influential Indiana does not currently Indiana Republican have statewide protections for and CEO of Angie’s sexual orientation and gender List; Joseph Swedish, identity and Pence has stated CEO of Anthem; Jeff on multiple occasions that that Smulyan, CEO of Emmis is not on his agenda. Communications; Dan Since Jan. 22, different RFRA Evans, CEO of Indiana bills have been introduced into University Health; state legislatures. Michigan is Jack Phillips, CEO of one of 13 states with proposed Roche Diagnostics; RFRA bills, according to the Scott McCorkle, CEO ACLU. The Michigan Religious of Salesforce Marketing The front cover of the Indianapolis Star, March 31, demanding that Freedom Restoration Act was legislators extended protections to LGBT people in the state and fix Cloud; John Lechleiter, introduced in the lame duck the RFRA problem that has brought national outrage from a broad congressional session last year CEO of Eli Lilly and Co.; coalition of people. and Tim Hassinger, CEO of as an attempt by Republican Dow AgroSciences. lawmakers to protect “religious Chairman of Kittle’s Furniture outrage from employees and customers freedom.” However, once the 2015 and former Chairman of the Indiana over the new law; they are canceling all legislative cycle began, Republican Republican Party, Jim Kittle Jr., also programs that require customers and lawmakers began introducing a stream came out in opposition to the RFRA employees to travel to Indiana. of religious freedom measures. The bill. Oesterle was so outraged by Over the weekend Pence said that Michigan bill is currently sitting in a the legislation that he canceled his he is open to a clarification of the state Senate committee. bill and states that the intention was Apple’s Cook Calls ‘Religious Objection’ Laws Dangerous

NEW YORK (AP) – Apple CEO Tim Cook equality.” sick partners and sharing in their legacies. said that so-called “religious objection” He cited actions taken by lawmakers Countless people, particularly kids, face legislation being introduced in a number in Texas, Indiana and Arkansas, but said fear and abuse every day because of their of states is dangerous and bad for that a “wave of legislation” has been sexual orientation.” business. introduced in more than two dozen states. Cook said in his criticism of religious The bills, like the one enacted last week Cook said he was opposing the objection laws that he has great respect in Indiana, create a legal framework for legislation on behalf of Apple Inc. He for religious freedom, but that it can never individuals, mostly business owners, to came out as gay in October, saying that be “used as an excuse to discriminate.” claim that a law or regulation mandated he wanted to make a difference for others. The legislation is not a political or by the government infringes on their In a letter he wrote then, Cook said, religious issue, but rather “about how religious beliefs. “there are laws on the books in a we treat each other as human beings,” In an op-ed piece for The Washington majority of states that allow employers Cook said. Post, the leader of the nation’s largest to fire people based solely on their sexual “Opposing discrimination takes corporation said that the bills under orientation. There are many places where courage. With the lives and dignity of so consideration “have the potential to landlords can evict tenants for being gay, many people at stake, it’s time for all of undo decades of progress toward greater or where we can be barred from visiting us to be courageous,” Cook said. 16 BTL | April 2, 2015 www.PrideSource.com First Trans Population Study Launched

BY BTL STAFF place of residence, education, employment and income; describe basic health outcomes The Williams Institute is set to launch an and health behaviors, including general upcoming study that will be the first-of-its- health status, mental health, smoking, history kind, looking into the needs and disparities of of suicide attempts, disability, quality of life the transgender population. The information and health care access (including insurance that will be collected from a statistically coverage); describe experiences of transgender representative sample could be used to help people with interpersonal and institutional craft better legislative and benefits policies. discrimination, including experiences in Researchers at the Williams Institute at healthcare, employment, housing and law UCLA School of Law, Columbia University enforcement; and describe transgender identity and The Fenway Institute at Fenway Health are history and transition-related experiences, teaming up to study the transgender population including access to gender-affirming mental in the United States. The study is expected to health services, hormone treatment and create a more accurate and detailed picture of surgery, when relevant. the issues faced by transgender individuals. The findings from the study will show The study, which is being led by Ilan how various groups of transgender people H. Meyer, Williams Senior Scholar of differ and to what degree. That level of detail Public Policy at the Williams Institute, will could highlight concerns that were previously provide researchers and policymakers with underreported and help service providers unbiased estimates about the demographics, develop more targeted programs. health outcomes and health care needs of The researchers will use a survey of 350,000 the transgender population by relying on U.S. adults, conducted by Gallup, a global a randomly selected sample of the U.S. survey organization that delivers analytics population. The study, titled “TransPop: U.S. and advice. Gallup survey participants will be Transgender Population Health Survey,” will screened during a one-year period and those also provide insights into the methodology of who identify as transgender will be invited surveying transgender people. to participate in the TransPop study. The “With awareness about transgender people researchers estimate that 300-500 transgender- growing in the public and among researchers identified individuals will participate. and policymakers, there are new opportunities In addition to Meyer, TransPop investigators to establish policies that address the needs of include Jody Herman, scholar of public transgender people in the U.S.,” said Meyer, policy at the Williams Institute; Dr. Walter the study’s principal investigator. “Timely and Bockting, professor of medical psychology accurate data about the transgender population and co-director of the LGBT Health Initiative is crucial for designing evidence-based public at Columbia University; and Sari Reisner, health and policy interventions.” research fellow, department of epidemiology To date, most of what researchers know at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health about the transgender population comes from and research scientist at The Fenway Institute studies that do not use random selection at Fenway Health. The study is affiliated with methods, Meyer said. While those studies UCLA’s California Center for Population have provided valuable information about Research. transgender lives, they may not accurately The study is supported by the NIH Office of represent the population. Social and Behavioral Science and is part of The goals set by these three research “Generations,” a larger five-year study funded facilities hope to: describe basic demographic by a federal grant from the Eunice Kennedy parameters of the U.S. transgender population Shriver National Institute of Child Health and including race/ethnicity, gender identity, age, Human Development to the Williams Institute.

www.PrideSource.com April 2, 2015 | BTL 17 AIDS Partnership Michigan And HIV/AIDS Resource Center Announce Merger

BY BTL STAFF three offices in Detroit, Ypsilanti and Jackson, and the full staff of both organizations will In order to strengthen the response to HIV We are stronger together. Our Boards have worked for over work together to fulfill our mission. in Southeast Michigan, AIDS Partnership a year to explore this opportunity and implement the merger. Our The new Board of Directors includes 12 Michigan and the HIV/AIDS Resource Center “ board members, six each from APM and have merged their organizations. services have continued without interruption and are enhanced by the HARC. Building on a history of collaboration and Meeting the needs of people who rely excellence, the merger of APM and HARC expertise and unique programming of each organization. on HIV services in this quickly changing will ensure the sustainability of comprehensive healthcare landscape requires an innovative HIV/AIDS prevention and care in their now model for comprehensive service delivery. 10-county area. - APM CEO William VanHemert who will serve as President and The merged organization’s core components Chief Executive Officer of the merged organization. ” The organizations have worked together – medical case management, HIV testing for more than 14 years through the HIV/ and education and outreach – will continue. AIDS Alliance of Michigan, AIDS Walk The broader regional model will ensure the Michigan, the highly recognized StatusSexy efficient use of resources in delivering services community mobilization campaign and and responding to community needs. An through involvement as community partners expanded geographic and service scope will President and Chief Executive Officer of the to address HIV as the Vice President of of the University of Michigan Center for provide leverage to ensure sustainability of merged organization. Community Research and Innovation. Sexuality and Health Disparities. Together, HIV and related health care services, resulting “Our goal is to enhance our capacity in The planning process and consulting services they provide HIV prevention and direct care in continued access and improved health key areas, including programming, access leading to this merger have been supported services to almost 7,000 residents of Southeast outcomes for clients in Southeast Michigan. to funding, community-based research through generous grants from the Community Michigan. The staff, board members and volunteers and delivery of HIV-related health care Foundation for Southeast Michigan, AIDS “We are stronger together. Our Boards invite supporters and community members to services. The constant is our commitment United Sector Transformation Fund and the have worked for over a year to explore this celebrate the merger of APM and HARC at the to compassionate HIV prevention and care Washtenaw Coordinated Funders. APM and opportunity and implement the merger. Our 20th annual Dining for Dollars event on May services,” said HARC President/CEO Jimena HARC will continue to use their names until services have continued without interruption 13 at Zingerman’s Roadhouse in Ann Arbor. Loveluck. and are enhanced by the expertise and unique a rebranding process is completed in the Loveluck will focus on expanding services For tickets and information, please visit http:// programming of each organization,” said APM coming months. and strengthening innovative approaches hivaidsresource.org/dining-for-dollars/ CEO William VanHemert who will serve as The same services will be delivered through HIV Outbreak In Indiana To Be Declared Public Emergency

SCOTTSBURG, Ind. (AP) – Faced with a are illegal in Indiana, but a measure being Republican Rep. Ed Clere of New Albany, growing HIV outbreak tied to intravenous drug debated in the Legislature would allow them who proposed the needle distribution and use, Indiana Gov. Mike Pence said March 25 on a limited basis. collection program at the Statehouse, said a he’s considering a needle-exchange program IV drug use has been determined as the House panel considered similar legislation as part of a public health emergency he’s mode of infection in nearly all of the cases in last year, but it didn’t receive a hearing in the preparing to declare in a county that’s at the the outbreak, said state epidemiologist Pam Senate. epicenter of the cases. Pontones said. “Unfortunately we’re back here, not just Pence, a Republican, said he generally The number of cases is expected to rise. with needle exchange as a hypothetical opposes needle exchanges but is listening to Officials are trying to contact as many as 100 theory, but with a real situation where a needle health officials to determine the best way to people tied to those with confirmed infections. exchange (program) could make a difference,” stop the outbreak in Scott County in southern The state has launched an awareness he said. Indiana. Health officials say 72 cases of HIV campaign that includes billboards and social The program would require participating have been confirmed in southern Indiana and media. State health commissioner Dr. Jerome agencies to register with state and local health seven other people have preliminary positive Adams said a mobile unit will be sent to Scott departments and provide information on HIV infections. All of those infected either County with resources to help combat the treatment for drug addiction. live in Scott County or have ties to the county. outbreak. Dr. Jennifer Walthall, deputy state health Pence, who plans to issue an executive order Pontones said state health officials and staff commissioner, told lawmakers that despite Thursday morning outlining a range of state from the Centers for Disease Control and Pence’s opposition to a needle-exchange actions, noted Scott County typically sees five Prevention who arrived in the county about program, the department must look at every HIV cases each year. 30 miles north of Louisville, Kentucky agree option. “What I’m thinking about carefully and that the outbreak “is an indicator of a larger “We have never encountered this type of thoughtfully is what’s needed in a public problem,” which is rampant IV drug use in the situation before and we need to consider it health emergency, what’s necessary to really economically depressed region. differently,” Walthall said. get control of this in the immediate future,” “With the amount of drug use that’s Pence said. happening and the intravenous needle- Associated Press writer Lauryn Schroeder Needle-exchange programs allow people to sharing that’s going on, if someone who’s contributed to this story from Indianapolis. turn in used hypodermic needles and get clean highly infectious becomes part of that sharing ones in an effort to keep diseases such as HIV network, that infection can transmit very and hepatitis from spreading. Such programs rapidly,” Pontones said.

18 BTL | April 2, 2015 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com April 2, 2015 | BTL 19 Photo: James Dimmock Troubadour Talks Bear Fans, Drag Queens, Gay Rumors & His Dream Broadway Role

BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI the Opera” showstopper “All I Ask Of You,” got your gay on. up to me and goes, “Hey, I just want you to a duet with Kelly Clarkson. (Laughs). I’ll always put my gay on for know, the bears love you.” I’m like, “Excuse t all began with the bears. While discussing the release during a recent Rufus. me? What?” And I didn’t know what that “I’m like, ‘Are you a baseball team?’” interview, the 34-year-old also highlighted meant! I’m like, “Are you a baseball team?” Isays Josh Groban, recalling an early- the significance of performing with the During an interview you did regarding that career encounter with a man who informed Washington, D.C. Gay Men’s Chorus during performance, Rufus referred to you as a How did you figure out what type of bears he the crooner about his growing number of gay Obama’s 2009 presidential inauguration, the “dreamboat.” At this point in your career, are you was referring to? bear fans. validation his younger “awkward” self felt used to that kind of attention from gay men? I think some Googling had to take place. And Nearly 15 years later, members of the LGBT after being named “Sexiest Newcomer” and it was like, “Oh. Ohhhh!” (Laughs) community – even the non-hairy ones – are how Ryan Gosling put the singer’s sexuality Yeah, it’s happened from time to time. Look, still feeling struck and soothed by Groban’s to the test. when Rufus Wainwright is complimenting And you’re like, “Not the bears in the forest.” elastic range. “Stages,” out April 28, is yet you, musically or otherwise, it’s a great Yeah, and not the Chicago Bears. another swoon-worthy set from the singer. I was fortunate enough to see you during honor. Something that was surprising to me His first collection of songs from musicals, the summer of 2014 in Toronto for Rufus that happened when I first got signed at 19, If you could duet on a love song with any man, 20 years old: I was at some kind of shop, and Groban takes on some of Broadway’s best for Wainwright’s “If I Loved You: Gentlemen Prefer who would it be and why? the album, which includes “You’ll Never Walk I was walking around with someone – it was Broadway – An Evening of Love Duets,” where you If I could sing with any man, it would Alone” from “Carousel” and “The Phantom of probably my girlfriend – and this guy comes probably be Brian Stokes Mitchell. I love his 20 BTL | April 2, 2015 www.PrideSource.com voice, and I grew up listening to his voice. talk about it.” There’s such a warm tone to the way he sings, and he’s just such a great actor and a It’s not like you’re in a community where that really great guy. We would do a killer “Pretty wouldn’t be accepted. Women” (from “Sweeney Todd”), I think. Exactly. I’ve grown up with gay friends; my parents have had great gay friends. I You’re from L.A., and you went to arts schools, come from such an open-minded family including Interlochen Center for the Arts in background. I am so lucky to have the parents Michigan. I imagine you’ve been immersed in that I have and to have grown up with the the gay community for much of your life. Did you environment of “accept and be accepted” and find a lot of gay people gravitating to you at a “love and be loved,” so when that kind of young age? talk comes up, I think to myself, “All right, Like you said, I went to a wonderful arts I’m happy to say what is and isn’t true,” but camp at Interlochen. I went to a great arts at the same time, I don’t see why that’s like, high school in Los Angeles – L.A. County “Ohhhh.” Like that would be an insult. I don’t High School for the Arts – and grew up get that. If that were the case, I would just say in Los Angeles and with a wonderful arts it and it would be no big deal. That’s the thing background, and I got to meet all sorts of that bugs me more than anything, though – people. Many of my friends were gay at these that the mention of it would be considered places – at camp, at school. provocative when, really, in this day and age The wonderful thing I found about the arts it shouldn’t be. and the arts connection was, I had come from Assuming you selected the songs on “Stages” a situation where I had a hard time making because they have relevance in your own life, friends at school and I was bullied, and I which ones mean the most to you? finally went to school where everybody had the same inspiration for the arts, everybody There are actually a couple of songs that had the same passion. It was the first situation really have nostalgic memories for me. “All where I had felt that everybody was friends I Ask Of You” from “Phantom” was the first with everybody, and everybody felt the song that I ever sang professionally to get a most comfortable being themselves at these record deal, so when I found myself at Abbey places. And so, for me, the arts were the first Road, singing that song and with Kelly scenario where I found a connective tissue (Clarkson), it was just like, “Oh, man!” Very between everybody. rarely do I ever pat myself on the back or give myself a high five – I’m always kind of When you look back, did that closeness to the self-critical and moving forward – but it was queer community ever make you question your one of those moments where I was listening own sexuality? to that orchestra and having memories of the No, not at all. It wasn’t in any way, shape or 17-year-old kid in the ill-fitting tuxedo that form about my own life or my own sexuality first sang that song, and I’m like, “You know – it was about understanding and accepting what, go you. You did it.” everybody, and being friends regardless A song like “Bring Him Home” is a song of that. I think that’s also what the straight you can’t help but hear and think about community needs to understand – that it’s what’s going on now in the world, and how about friendship and alliance. It’s not about many people are hoping and praying the questioning yourself or anything like that – same things today. The wonderful thing I’ve it’s about the togetherness of it. I think the found about these songs is there’s so much wonderful thing about the arts is that I grew relevance and poignancy to them today, up in a community where I felt there was regardless of the show that they’re in, and acceptance and friendship regardless of our that was a wonderful discovery. One of the own personal lives. things that really dictated what we chose and what we didn’t choose was if they could live And co-starring with Ryan Gosling in “Crazy, independently on their own. Stupid, Love” – that didn’t challenge your You obviously have theater aspirations. What’s heterosexuality? your dream Broadway role? (Laughs) Listen, if I was gonna be gay, I’m a Sondheim nut. I like his stuff because that would’ve been the moment. That was it allows for really operatic singing without probably my greatest test, and I failed. dancing. I’m a terrible dancer. So, for me, I You came out as “not gay” on Twitter a couple would love to do something like “Sweeney years ago. How do you feel about people Todd” or “Sunday in the Park with George.” speculating about your sexuality? I was introduced to “Chess” when I was 24 or 25 – I did it for the Actors’ Fund on Honestly, if I were gay, I would have had no Broadway – and I’ve always thought that problem saying it from day one. It’s such a show got a bum rap. Just the music alone can thing when people speculate. I would have go toe to toe with the great musicals. I think nothing to hide if that were the case. People it deserves, at some point, a chance. Maybe a have speculated, have wanted to speculate – different kind of direction, a different kind of whatever, fine. I’m not gay, but if I were, I vision, but that would be another dream role. don’t view it as a bad thing. If I were, I’d say, “OK, fine, speculate all you want and let’s See Josh Groban, page 23 www.PrideSource.com April 2, 2015 | BTL 21 22 BTL | April 2, 2015 www.PrideSource.com And then you think, “If only I knew then what I know now.” I don’t think you ever wanna peak in high school either. I don’t think you want to have your most confidence when you’re 15 or 16 years old, or you turn into Al Bundy. It’s good to go through the 15-, 16-year-old period where you don’t have your shit together, where you feel like you do need to figure out what your identity is, where you need to figure out where your walls should be and where your confidence needs to lie. If I didn’t have that period where I didn’t fit in and I didn’t make the team, then, truly, I don’t think I would’ve had as much of a desire to really find my true self in my 20s. Knowing how far you’ve come into yourself, it must be really rewarding to see you’re a source of inspiration for people now, many of them gay. Is there a story you can recall from someone who’s LGBT who was affected by your music? Oh, it’s every concert. I’ll meet people backstage and it’s always so wonderful for me. When you get to really look somebody in the eye to you! That is amazing! Well done! ® and see that your song has helped Josh Groban Ginger Minj – I salute you!” somebody through a hard time or Continued from p. 21 kept them from harming themselves I like to imagine you doing karaoke. You’re or made them not feel so alone, it You’d like to star in it? out with friends, and you’re probably gives you perspective and it gives you Absolutely. I mean, there are a bunch drinking. What’s your go-to karaoke a reason to do what you do. Without of roles that I think would be fun. It’s number? fail, during almost every show that really been a timing issue. It would be I hate to brag, but it’s a really unfair I’ve done, I’ve met somebody from a dream come true to do something on advantage. I kind of crush karaoke. the LGBT community backstage that the Broadway stage. With album and The thing about karaoke is it makes has said that my music in their own touring life, and when you have a record everybody a ham. I’ll go in there, peruse life has played a huge part in (helping deal, you have to satisfy commitments. the little binder, and just hang back them) feel a part of this universe and It’s just a matter of taking the time to with the tambourine for a few songs be confident in who they are, and also do it right. and then go straight into “We Are the able to express themselves. I always Champions” and “I like big butts and I try to find songs and sing songs that Your girlfriend, Kat Dennings, recently cannot lie… .” It just goes into all out try to express those beliefs and those appeared on “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” ’80s and ’90s hip-hop and hair metal, values, so it’s always very gratifying She crushed it! and that’s basically a night for me. I when somebody shares those stories remember I was singing “November with me. When’s it your turn to guest judge? Rain” and the guy came in to tell us (Laughs) She got me into that show! we were out of time, and he heard me You notably sang with the Gay Men’s I mean, RuPaul’s incredible. The singing it. Instead of telling us to leave, Chorus of Washington, D.C. during influence she’s had on everybody is he brought us free nachos. President Obama’s Inaugural Opening just amazing, and then you see the Ceremony in January 2009. What was it competition. The episode that Kat did On your list of accomplishments, where like being a part of such a big moment in – I took Shakespeare class, like I was does that time in 2002 rank, when People LGBT history? Magazine named you “Sexiest Newcomer”? in very heavy Shakespeare instruction Those steps and that environment when I was young and in theater Oh, somewhere floating in the middle, were about equal rights in the African- school, and so watching them put on I’d say. When you talk about high fives American community 50, 60 years ago, Shakespeare was one of the funniest to your younger self, when you read and to be able to represent the LGBT things I’ve ever seen in my life. It was something like that, you think about community and one of the great equal a wee bit of a train wreck, and I think every girl who rolled their eyes when rights issues of our times – and share Ru knew that, but it was really funny you’d go up and say hi to them, and that moment proudly on those steps to watch. then you’re all like, “Good job!” If I – was a tremendous honor for me. I And yeah, you never know. I would could go back and tell that young kid, was so thrilled that this administration be happy to be a judge on it, but I think I “You’re gonna be People Magazine’s had the wherewithal to understand would be so impressed with the fashion ‘Sexiest,’ he would’ve had a lot easier the importance of it, and to do that that I don’t think I would know how to of a time.” Those awkward times give musically – it’s one of my favorite critique it. I’d be like, “Wow! I could you character, though, I think. things that I have done of all time. not walk in those heels; congratulations www.PrideSource.com April 2, 2015 | BTL 23 Gay-Owned Ferndale Business Wins Cool Cities Ferndale Big At 2015 Great Lakes Floral Expo BY BTL STAFF “Surprise Surprise” category, where Blumz by JRDesigns Floral & Event YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD • YOUR MARKET contestants were given the same materials Professionals is an award-winning Pinpoint your ad dollars where Congratulations are in order for and told to create a unique design using full-service floral and wedding/event LGBT-owned Blumz, which received only those materials on the spot. company. With over 60 years of combined they will do the most good . . . several award at this year’s Great Lakes Adair won the Chuck Bannow experience, the owners of Blumz are Advertise in the next Cool Cities Floral Expo in March. The longtime Award, a title given to the “Best dedicated to the fine art of floristry. TO PLACE AN AD CALL 734.293.7200 vendor at Between the Lines’ Same-Sex Overall” design throughout the As internationally respected educators Wedding Expo is a full-service florist weekend. She also took home the Past and presenters in the floral industry, the and a wedding and event planning store Presidents Award, an award given to owners of Blumz continue to raise the bar with locations in Detroit, Ferndale and one outstanding designer during the in the floral industry. Their commitment Ann Arbor. annual awards banquet. The award to bringing their customers high-quality Blumz co-owner Jerome Raska is sponsored by Bloomnet and gives floral products, award-winning design attended the 2015 Great Lakes Floral the winner the opportunity to attend and unsurpassed service at competitive Expo March 6-8 in Grand Rapids a one week class of their choice prices is their mission. alongside Blumz floral designers Paul in Jacksonville, Fla. with all their Blumz is well-respected as a wedding Sawyers, Shelley Adair and Youngmi expenses paid. Adair will be choosing a and event florist. Their professional Hong, and Blumz team members Tim class and heading to Jacksonville very wedding and event staff can assist O’Rear, Sarah Bennett and Pamela soon to soak up some sun and some LGBT and allied clients with everything: Clemo. The team attended a variety new floral skills. floral, specialty linen selection, rentals, of hands-on workshops including Blumz announced via email: “We invitations, tuxedos and more. Blumz lessons on party planning, sympathy are very proud of all of our staff’s has two retail locations featuring trends, improving everyday designs and accomplishments. We hope to bring fresh florals, creative gift options and wedding work. Blumz also competed our new skills to the table the next time home accents as well as permanent in some of the contests that took place we are designing something for all of arrangements and plants. Blumz also throughout the weekend and were very you. We are not your ordinary flower, offers a shopper-friendly internet website happy with the results. wedding- and event-planning shop – and an appointment-only location Sawyers took home two awards. we are so much more. We work hard catering to event and weddings further First, he won second place in the “Seek, to stay on top of all the latest floral and assists in meeting our clients needs. Explore, and Discover” category. He wedding trends throughout the year. Blumz is located at 503 E. Nine designed a piece that used fresh floral Our staff attends as many classes and Mile Road, Ferndale and 1260 Library products and dried materials to create seminars as we can to improve our St., Detroit. The third location is by something that would be appropriate skills and to keep our team on their appointment only. For additional for the entryway of a manufacturing stems. We understand the value of information about Blumz, visit their company. He also won first place in the continued education. “ Facebook or www.blumz.com.

24 BTL | April 2, 2015 www.PrideSource.com 12

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www.PrideSource.com April 2, 2015 | BTL 25 Trans & Gender Queer Group 12:30 p.m. Eastern Michigan University, The Jewish Gay Network will bring and Ypsilanti. 734-487-4149. Emich.edu/ lgbtrc heat up dinner for those staying at the Sistrum Weekly Rehearsal 6:30 p.m. Ruth Ellis Center this Sunday. JGN will Sistrum, Lansing Women’s Chorus, 215 enjoy the company of REC residents; there N. Capital Ave., Lansing. Sistrum.org will also be egg decorating, art projects TransCend TransCend provides support and other activities. and resources to the Southwest Michigan transgender community, their The event, which runs from noon to significant others, family, friends, and allies. Meetings occur twice per month 4 p.m. on April 5, is part of JGN’s “Mitzvah on the 2nd Wednesday and 4th Sunday. Project.” To join this mitzvah experience Kalamazoo Gay and Lesbian Resource Center, 629 Pioneer St., Kalamazoo. please RSVP to the [email protected] or 269-349-4234. Kglrc.org call 248-432-5661. Thursday, April 9 REC is located at 77 Victor St., Highland Re-imaging Gender 15 promising Park. JGN is headquartered in two artists take on one of the thorniest locations: the D. Dan & Betty Kahn Building Eugene & Marcia Applebaum Jewish challenges facing contemporary art: how to render the modern spectrum of Community Campus, 6600 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield and the Jimmy Prentis Morris gender, going beyond the simple male/ Building on the A. Alfred Taubman Jewish Community Campus, 15110 W. Ten Mile Road, female binary to include a wide variety of identities and sexualities. University Oak Park. of Michigan, Inst. for Research on Women and Gender, 204 S. State St., Ann Arbor. 734-764-9537. schwarde@ umich.edu Irwg. research.umich.edu/ events/exhibitions. html Free HIV Testing 2:30 p.m. Free anonymous HIV testing in-store at S3 every Thursday 2-8. Call to make an appointment, or walk-ins welcome. S3 Safe Sex Store and HARC, 1209 S. Detroit. 313-887-8500. Jazzcafedetroit. South Blvd., Rochester Hills. 586- University, Ann Arbor. 734-741-1434. OUTINGS com 838-0825. [email protected] S3safesexstore.com Thursday, April 2 Ladies Night 10 p.m. Third Thursdays: Friday, April 3 Monday, April 6 For women who love women. Pronto Detroit Regional LGBT Chamber Weekend Starts 6:15 p.m. Gay Substance Abuse Weekly Therapy Video Bar, 608 S. Washington Ave., Michigan Membership Mixer 5:30 Professionals Social Group, 241 W. Nine Group 6 p.m. The Center for Royal Oak. p.m. Meet the board, meet partners, Mile Road, Ferndale. meetup.com/Gay- Relationship and Sexual Health, 25600 meet new businesses, make deals, find Professionals-Social-Group-MI Woodward Ave., Ste. 215, Royal Oak. Saturday, April 11 more revenue streams, and explore 248-399-7447. [email protected] benefits of joining. Free. Detroit Regional First Friday Potluck 7 p.m. Lansing Enchanted Spring Bash 2015 Tickets: LGBT Chamber of Commerce, Detroit. Lesbians-L2L, 1710 E. Michigan Ave. TransPeace 7 p.m. Ruth Ellis Center, 77 $175-500. Affirmations, Detroit. Eventbrite.com/e/detroit-regional-lgbt- #1712, Lansing. meetup.com/Lansing- Victor St., Highland Park. 313-867- Goaffirmations.org chamber-michigan-membership-mixer- Lesbians-L2L 6932. Ruthelliscenter.org Own Your Gender 7 p.m. The Network, comerica-tickets-15834046058?fb_ Whole Lives, Healthy Lives Adult 343 Atlas Ave. SE, Grand Rapids. 616- action_ids=10155224222615234&fb_ Saturday, April 4 Support Group 7 p.m. This one-of-a- 458-3511. Grlgbt.org action_types=og. shares Alcohol Abuse Weekly Therapy Group kind program in Berrien County helps Mitten Mavens vs Grand Raggidy Comedy Extravaganza 2015 6:30 p.m. 2 p.m. The Center for Relationship and attendees support each other in healthy Attack 7:30 p.m. The Mitten Mavens Headlining is Lansing Comic Kathie Sexual Health, 25600 Woodward Ave., ways through active listening and will be taking on Grand Rapids B team Dunbar with opening act Lila. Tickets: Ste. 215, Royal Oak. 248-399-7447. caring feedback. OutCenter, 132 Water the Grand Raggidy Attack in April, this $10-15. Genesee County PFLAG Chapter, [email protected] St., Benton Harbor. 269-925-8330. is not a bout to miss! This will be the Flint, MI, 2474 S. Ballenger Highway, Outcenter.org Star Wars Night 7:30 p.m. Michigan first time the two teams are taking Flint. 810-496-9302. pflagflint@yahoo. Pagans, 5 Championship Dr., Auburn each other on. Tickets: $10-12. Lansing com Pflagflint.com Hills. 248-377-0100. Palacenet.com Tuesday, April 7 Capital Roller Derby, 7868 Old M-78, Red Wings Pride Night 7:30 p.m. The LGBTQ+ Support Group 4 p.m. For East Lansing . Mittenmavens.net Wings play the Boston Bruins in Second Sunday, April 5 teens age 14-18. Call number for location. True Teen Group, East Lansing. LGBT Pride Night in NHL history. Olympia Mitzvah Project 12 p.m. Will bring and Sunday, April 12 Entertainment and Detroit Regional 725-222-TRUE. [email protected] heat up Easter dinner for REC. Jewish Bookclub in April 2 p.m. Discussing LGBT Chamber of Commerce, 19 Steve Gay Network (JGN), 77 Victor St., Transgender Life Support 7 p.m. “The Red Tent” by Anita Diamant Yzerman Dr., Detroit. 313-396-7000. Highland Park. 248-432-5661. jgnmi@ Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile Lansing Lesbians - L2L, 2820 Towne Olympiaentertainment.com jccdet.org Jccdet.org Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. Cenre Blvd., Lansing Charter Goaffirmations.org Township. www.Meetup.com/Lansing- World Dance Party 7:30 p.m. Cover: Transitions 2 p.m. Free transgender Lesbians-L2L $15. Jazz Cafe, 350 Madison Ave., support group. Transitions, 1055 E. Wednesday, April 8

Puzzle solution on pg. 30

SHOP LGBT 26 BTL | April 2, 2015 www.PrideSource.com Monday, April 13 guest Nikki Lane” . The Ark, 316 S. Dog Loves Books Louise Yates’ New Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. April 2. York Times Best Seller comes to life in Gender Explorers 8 p.m. Spectrum 734-761-1800. Theark.org ArtsPower’s newest musical about the Center, Ann Arbor. 734-763-4186. irresistible Dog who loves book so much http://spectrumcenter.umich.edu The Ark “Seth Walker” Tickets: $15. that he decides to open up his own The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 bookstore. CLICK HERE for complete p.m. April 3. 734-761-1800. Theark. show information. Tickets: $15. Meadow MUSIC & MORE org Brook Theatre, 2200 N. Squirrel Road, Italian Film Festival “Italian Film The Majestic “Twin Shadow” . The Rochester. 1 p.m. April 4. 248-377-3300. Festival” All films are free and open Magic Stick, 4120 Woodward Ave., mbtheatre.com to the public. Various, Various. April Detroit. 8 p.m. April 8. 313-833-9700 . 2-April 26. Italianfilmfests.org Dog Loves Books Tickets: $15. Majesticdetroit.com Meadow Brook Theatre, Oakland Midtown Detroit Inc. “Art X Detroit” University Musical Society (UMS) University, 2200 N. Squirrel Road, . Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit, “Gilberto Gil” . Hill Auditorium, 825 N. Rochester. 1 p.m. April 4. 248-377-3300. 4454 Woodward Ave., Detroit. April University Ave., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. April Mbtheatre.com 9-April 26. 313-832-6622. Artxdetroit. 4. 734-761-1800. Ums.org com God of Carnage An exploration of Unlimited Sky Production what happens when two couples “Wednesday Night Jazz & Soul Music meet to resolve a playground fight Concerts Series” Every Wednesday Night Jazz that occurred between their children. Blind Pig “44th Annual Ann Arbor & Soul Music Series featuring dome of An adult comedy with adult language Hash Bash Show Featuring: Laith the best live music in MichiganCover: and situations. Tickets: $8-15. Thunder Al-Saadi, The Macpodz & Rootstand” $5. Harbor House, 440 Clinton, Detroit. Bay Theatre, 400 N. Second Ave., 18+. Tickets: $10-15. Blind Pig, 208 Jan. 21-June 24. 3139679900. Alpena. Through April 4. 989-354-2267. S. First St., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. April 4. Harborhousemi.com thunderbaytheatre.com 734-996-8555. Blindpigmusic.com Improv Mondays At 8 p.m. the show Blind Pig “Pity Sex wsg Cloakroom” Other kicks off with a guest improv troupe, 18+. Tickets: $12-14. Blind Pig, 208 S. Trinity Divine Healing “Health & followed by a performance by Planet

Gennesee County PFLAG presents its second annual Comedy Extravaganza this week, featuring Kathie Dunbar, back by popular demand. The event will also feature a 50/50 raffle and refreshments. Founded in 1972 with the simple act of a mother publicly supporting her gay son, PFLAG is the nation’s largest family and ally organization. Made up of parents, families, friends, and straight allies united with people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, PFLAG is committed to advancing equality and societal acceptance of LGBT people through its threefold mission of support, education and advocacy. Doors for the comedy event are 6:30 p.m., show at 7 p.m., on Thursday, April 2. The event will be held in the Unitarian Universalist Church at 2474 S. Ballenger Highway, Flint. Tickets are $10-15. For more information, visit www.pflagflint.com.

First St., Ann Arbor. 9:30 p.m. April 2. Wellness Classes” Cost: $5-10. Grace Ant’s resident Home Team. The night 734-996-8555. Blindpigmusic.com is Sufficient Ministries Neighborhood closes with The Ant Jam, an opportunity for anyone to improvise on the Planet Michigan Theater “Noir Film Series” Center, 13345 Joy Road, Detroit. Jan. Ant stage. CLICK HERE for complete . Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St., 12-May 30. 313-451-2472. show information. Tickets: $5 at the Ann Arbor. Jan. 12-April 27. 734-668- door. Planet Ant Theatre, 2357 Caniff, 8397. Michtheater.org THEATER Hamtramck. Through June 29. 313-365- Royal Oak Music Theatre “Zappa 4948. planetant.com Plays Zappa” “One Size Fits All” Civic/Community Theater Julius Caesar Marcus Brutus, a 40th Anniversary. Royal Oak Farmers Jesus Christ Superstar . The Roman senator, is torn between his Market, 316 E. 11 Mile Road, Michigan Theatre of Jackson, 124 N. friendship with Caesar and his loyalty to Royal Oak. April 3. 248-246-3276. Mechanic, Jackson. Through April 5. Rome. CLICK HERE for complete show Royaloakmusictheatre.com Michigantheatre.org information. Tickets: $7-14. Dog Story Theater, Dog Story Theatre, 7 Jefferson The Acorn Theater “Brittany Lee College/University Theater Moffitt and Bailey Williams” . The SE, Grand Rapids. April 2-April 12. 616- Acorn Theater, 107 Generations Dr., Bug . Michigan State University, 425-9234. pcshakespeare.com Three Oaks. 8 p.m. April 3. 269-756- The Arena Theatre, MSU Auditorium, Luce Tickets: $26-41. Meadow Brook 3879. Acorntheater.com 542 Auditorium Road, East Lansing. Theatre, Oakland University, 2200 N. Through April 4. 1-800-WHARTON. Squirrel Road, Rochester. Through April The Ark “Kacey Musgraves” . Whartoncenter.com Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St., 12. 248-370-2030. Ticketmaster.com Ann Arbor. April 8. 734-668-8397. Madea on the Run Mabel Simmons, Theark.org Professional notoriously known as Madea, is in A Doll’s House Tickets: $10. Slipstream trouble and on the run from the local The Ark “Feufollet” Tickets: $15. The Theatre Initiative, Michigan Actor’s authorities. With no place to turn, Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. Studio, 648 E. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. she volunteers to move in with her April 4. 734-761-1800. Theark.org Through April 2. Slipstreamti.com friend Bam who is recovering from hip The Ark “Good Old War” Tickets: And the Winner Is. . . Tickets: $20. The replacement surgery. CLICK HERE for $15. The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Snug Theatre, 160 S. Water St., Marine complete show information. Tickets: $38. Arbor. 8 p.m. April 7. 734-761-1800. City. Through April 4. 810-278-1749. 50-88. 50. Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward Theark.org Thesnugtheatre.com Ave., Detroit. April 3-April 5. 313-471- The Ark “Shakey Graves with special See Happenings, page 28

www.PrideSource.com April 2, 2015 | BTL 27 Cameron Mackintosh’s spectacular new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “The Phantom of the Opera” will come to Wharton Center as part of a brand new North American Tour. Critics are raving that this breathtaking production is “bigger and better than ever before” and features a brilliant new scenic design by Paul Brown, Tony Award- winning original costume design by Maria Björnson, lighting design by Tony Award- winner Paule Constable, new choreography by Scott Ambler and new staging by director Laurence Connor. The production, overseen by Matthew Bourne and Cameron Mackintosh, boasts many exciting special effects including the show’s legendary chandelier. The beloved story and thrilling score – with songs like “Music of the Night,” “All I Ask Of You” and “Masquerade” – will be performed by a cast and orchestra of 52, making this Phantom one of the largest productions now on tour. “The Phantom of the Opera” will run from April 1-12. Tickets start at $44. The production will be in East Lansing’s Wharton Center, in Cobb Great Hall. Visit www.wharton.com for more information.

Yakety Yak -- A Fifties Tale Join us as MOCAD “Radical Scavengers: the ® Robert and Ray, two elderly men in their MOCAD Quilting Bee Project” This winter Happenings 80s, decide to buy a diner and use it as a the Mobile Homestead space transforms Continued from p. 27 class reunion dance. When the guys turn into a contemporary quilt making on the jukebox, they are transported back workshop for the community. Museum to the ‘50s and get a chance to relive the of Contemporary Art Detroit, 4454 6611. olympiaentertainment.com fun again. Remember: “Yakety Yak, don’t Woodward Ave., Detroit. Jan. 25-May 24. Sirens Tickets: $10-35. Williamston talk back!” CLICK HERE for complete show 313-832-6622. Mocadetroit.org Theatre, 122 S. Putnam Road, information. Tickets: $39-43. 50 (includes Oakland University “The Fortress” . Williamston. Through April 26. 517-655- dinner). Cornwell’s Dinner Theatre, 18935 Oakland University, 2200 N. Squirrel SHOW. Williamstontheatre.com 15 1/2 Mile Rd., Marshall. Through May 2. 269-781-4293. turkeyville.com Road, Rochester. March 1-April 5. Stones in His Pockets Tickets: $25-41. 248-370-2030. Oakland.edu Performance Network Theatre, 120 E. The Scarab Club “Lowriding: From Huron St., Ann Arbor. Through April 5. Theater for Crenshaw to Woodward” . The Scarab 734-663-0681. Performancenetwork.org Young Audiences Club, 217 Farnsworth, Detroit. April 1-May Talley’s Folly Lanford Wilson’s romantic The Crane Maiden . PuppetART 16. 313-831-1250. Scarabclub.org comedy about a pair of mismatched Theater, Detroit Puppet Theater, 25 E. UMMA “Hana Hamplova: Meditations souls longing to find love after nearly Grand River Ave., Detroit. April 4-April on Paper” . University Of Michigan giving up on the dream. Tickets: $12-42. 16. 313-961-7777. Puppetart.org Museum Of Art, 525 S. State St., Ann The Purple Rose Theatre Company, 137 Arbor. Feb. 21-Aug. 9. 734-763-4186. Park St., Chelsea. April 2-May 23. 734- Umma.umich.edu 433-7673. purplerosetheatre.org ART ‘N’ AROUND UMMA “HE: The Hergott Shepard The Kiss of the Sun For Pardon Ann Arbor Film Festival “Jane Cassidy: Photography Collection” . University Of Tickets: $17-20. Detroit Repertory Fits of an Easy Reflextion” . Work Gallery, Michigan Museum Of Art, 525 S. State Theatre, 13103 Woodrow Wilson, Detroit. 306 S. State St., Ann Arbor. March St., Ann Arbor. Feb. 14-June 14. 734- Through May 17. 313-868-1347. 14-April 4. Aafilmfest.org 763-4186. Umma.umich.edu Detroitreptheatre.com Detroit Artists Market (DAM) “2015 UMMA “Medicinal Plants and The Merchant of Venice Shsakespeare’s DAM Annual Scholarship Awards & Gardens: The Matthaei Botanical classic play tells the story of a wealthy Exhibition-College for Creative Studies” Gardens & Nichols Arboretum” . Christian merchant who mistakenly makes . Detroit Artists Market, 4719 Woodward University Of Michigan Museum Of a deadly bond with his enemy, a Jewish Ave., Detroit. March 1-April 11. 313- Art, 525 S. State St., Ann Arbor. Jan. money lender with nothing and everything 832-8540. Detroitartistsmarket.org 25-May 3. 734-763-4186. Umma. to lose. CLICK HERE for complete show DIA “Photographs from the Detroit umich.edu information. Tickets: $10. Slipstream Walk-In Portrait Studio by Corne Theatre Initiative, Michigan Actors Studio, Vermeulen” . Detroit Institute of Arts, UMMA “Guido van der Werve: 648 E. 9 Mile Rd., Ferndale. April 5-April 2100 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Jan. Nummer veertien, home” . University 30. 2483270575. slipstreamti.com 1-May 17. 313-833-7900. Dia.org Of Michigan Museum Of Art, 525 S. State St., Ann Arbor. Jan. 1-April 26. The Phantom of the Opera A masked DIA “Make a Joyful Noise: 734-763-4186. Umma.umich.edu figure lurks beneath the catacombs Renaissance Art and Music at Florence of the Paris Opera House, exercising Cathedral” A rare opportunity to UMMA “Flip Your Field: Objects from a reign of terror over all who inhabit see three exquisite marble carvings the Collection” An exhibition from it. CLICK HERE for complete show and other Italian Renaissance the Museum’s collection of three- information. Tickets: From $32. Wharton masterpieces by sculptor Luca della dimensional objects. University Of Center for the Performing Arts, 750 E. Robbia. Detroit Institute of Arts, 2100 Michigan Museum Of Art, 525 S. State Shaw Lane, East Lansing. April 1-April Woodward Ave., Detroit. Feb. 6-May St., Ann Arbor. Jan. 24-July 19. 734- 12. 800-WHARTON. whartoncenter.com 17. 313-833-7900. Dia.org 763-4186. Umma.umich.edu Violet As a girl, Violet was in an DIA “Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo in University of Michigan, Inst. for accident, leaving her with a visible scar Detroit” Tickets: $24. Detroit Institute Research on Women and Gender “Re- across her face. With enough money of Arts, 2100 Woodward Ave., Detroit. imaging Gender” 15 promising artists finally saved, she’s traveling across the March 15-May 31. 313-833-7900. take on one of the thorniest challenges 1964 Deep South towards a miracle-the Dia.org facing contemporary art: how to render healing touch of a TV evangelist that the modern spectrum of gender, going will make her beautiful. CLICK HERE for Flint Institute of Arts “Common beyond the simple male/female binary to complete show information. Tickets: Ground: African American Art include a wide variety of identities and $35-41 (includes meal). The Dio-Dining Exhibition” . Flint Institute of Arts, sexualities. Lane Hall, 204 S. State St., and Entertainment, 135 E. Main St., 1120 E. Kearsley St., Flint. Feb. 8-April Ann Arbor. Jan. 15-June 26. 734-764- Pinckney. April 2-May 17. 517-672- 26. 810-234-1695. Flintarts.org 9537. Irwg. research.umich.edu/events/ 6009. diotheatre.com exhibitions. html

28 BTL | April 2, 2015 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com April 2, 2015 | BTL 29 25 Bitch of the ‘50s 5 English Lit., e.g. Q Puzzle 27 Mortgage holder 6 “Vogue” competitor 29 20-Across won gold at this 1976 7 Collar kind competition 8 Club for Sheehan The Changing Face Of Athletics 31 Albee for short, et al. 9 To wit 32 SEC overseer 10 From __ Z 34 Is orally aggressive 11 Endures the masochist role 35 Event for which 20-Across won 12 Opening the gold 13 Emily Dickinson, in her day 38 On the ocean 21 Carbon compound suffix 41 Emperor played by Charles 22 Macho movie guy Laughton 26 Word with top, for Mauresmo 42 Where to gaze at a hottie 28 SASE, for one 45 Cereal for which 20-Across was a 29 One of the “Maneater” singers spokesperson 30 Cowardly lion actor 47 “ ___ aux Folles” 33 Sadist’s tool 50 Movie tough guy Chuck 35 Letter opener 51 Reef buildup 36 Weird Al Yankovic song sucks? 52 “Meet Me in St. Louis” writer Brecher 37 “Ha ha!” on the Internet 53 Fear of gender reassigned people 38 Storefront shaders 58 Diamond of note 39 “Walden” author 60 Ease off when you masturbate? 40 Like a slave to a master 61 Blow hard, in and out 42 “Nitrate Kisses” director Hammer 62 Oz visitor Dorothy 43 Hostile to 63 Wife of Portia 44 Ties in 64 Irish tongue 46 Land of the cut 65 Filed for palimony, e.g. 48 Essen exclamation 66 Baryshnikov’s jetes, e.g. 49 Chris of “American Beauty” 67 Charlie Brown expletive 54 Ready and willing partner 17 Bear up there 55 Simba’s Broadway love Across 18 Emulate a pansy 56 Brady Bunch prefix 1 Delivered a mouthful, perhaps 19 “Oh, What a Beautiful Morning” Down 57 Whitman and Dickinson 5 Escort from the door singer 1 Designer ___ (facial hair style) 59 Was out in front 10 Straddling 20 Athlete currently undergoing 2 Attack by spraying from above 14 Meat stabber gender reassignment 3 Provides with coverage 15 Too-too 23 Small salamander 4 Official at Metropolitan Community 16 Starch source 24 Trapp title Church Solution on pg. 26 Classifieds

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30 BTL | April 2, 2015 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com April 2, 2015 | BTL 31