Michigan Community Centers Strike for LGBT Rights

DIA’s VP to Push Detroit Ahead Queen, Clambake How Hot Was Among P-Town Picks Hotter Than July? HUNGRY 4 EQUALITY

Michigan Community Centers Strike For LGBT Rights

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8.2.2012

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Cover story 14 | Creep of the Week 4 | Michiganders are Hungry 4 Equality Bryan Fisher Community Center Network 15 | Parting Glances partners for LGBT civil rights

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6 | DIA’s smooth operator, Broom inspired to 19 | Provincetown picks push Detroit ahead Best bets for a trip to the Cape

7 | Trevor Thomas needs phone volunteers 20 | Cool Cities: Royal Oak before Aug. 7 Primary Shakespeare in the Park

8 | 100-day countdown to November election 25 | Hear Me Out begins across U.S. Frank Ocean comes out with stunning debut. Plus: Whitney’s final songs in “Sparkle” Team Obama Hits 150 Events Across the State 26 | Happenings 9 | How hot was it? Featured: Kelly Clarkson at DTE on Aug. 10

13 | Turning up the heat 27 | ‘Gruesome Playground Injuries’ Barb Murray and Ron Thomas Honored at HTJ exposes wounds of deep friendship 13 | Equality Michigan: Where it’s been, 28 | The OutField where is it heading? Nike reaches the LGBT sports summit

16 | Conference: HIV rages among 29 | Transgender Pride in thet Park black gay men returns Aug. 4

Opinion Rear View 10 | S/he Said 30 | Puzzle Democrats’ marriage equality platform plank

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Chat on our FB Fan Page. Search “Between The Lines Newspaper” www.PrideSource.com August 2, 2012 | BTL 3 Michiganders Are Hungry 4 Equality Community Center Network Partners for LGBT Civil Rights BY CRYSTAL A. PROXMIRE example of how relentless Satan is.” being gay, or that we can’t adopt, or that a hard spearheaded legislation to take away domestic Online comments have mainly been working gay person can be fired from their job partner benefits for all public employees. FERNDALE – For all Michiganders who are supportive, but some are downright scary. “We just because they are gay.” Bauer took the second Republican House Majority Leader Jase Hungry 4 Equality, now is the time to sit down had someone write that they hope we all starve 24-hour shift that began on Tuesday. Bolger from Marshall, is the man behind the and shut your mouth. To food at least. and die,” Garcia said. In addition to simply giving up food for a day, infamous banning of two female representatives For the 100 days leading up to election day Fighting that kind of ignorance is not on the hungry4equality.com campaign encourages on the house floor, one for saying “vagina.” He Nov. 6, Affirmations Community Center will Garcia’s mind. “The only way you can not all people to visit Affirmations and get involved. was also recently involved in a scam to convince be ground zero for a statewide hunger protest. upset people is by not doing anything at all,” On the “Advocacy Island,” near the stage, a someone to run as a “fake Democrat” for a Strikers are hoping to bring attention to the he said. “You can’t just do nothing because of phone bank has been established, computers House seat. inequality faced by LGBT citizens. The state’s who may not like it.” Instead the Community have been hooked up, and information is ready Attorney General Bill Schutte made the list most heinous anti-gay politicians, who have been Center Network members, made up of eight for people who want to learn more. too. Schutte proposed prohibiting transgender inflicting harm on LGBT families, are also being individuals from being able to change their gender highlighted through a large window display titled marker on their drivers licenses, advocated for “Equality Rights Hall of Shame.” a law that would allow counseling students to A website (www.Hungry4equality.com) refuse to provide service to gay clients, and focusing on this effort has launched, where the defended stripping families of their domestic public can learn about the anti-gay legislation partner benefits. currently being pursued and sign-up to participate Republican Rep. Tom McMillin of Rochester in the strike effort. The six featured anti-gay introduced HB 5039, a bill that if passed, politicians working to deny equality to LGBT would prohibit cities from having specific non- families includes State Rep. Dave Agema discrimination policies, removing them from the (R-Dist.74); State House Speaker Jase Bolger 19 cities that have voted them in. (R-Dist. 63); Troy Mayor Janice Daniels; former Gary Glenn is the President of the Michigan’s U.S. Senate Candidate Gary Glenn, who heads American Family Association and until recently, up the Michigan Chapter of the American Family a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate. For Association; State Rep. Tom McMillin (R-Dist. the last 14 years he has spent a lot of time and 45);and Attorney General Bill Schuette. money fighting against gay rights. The sixth In rotating shifts, protestors will sit in a living- Hall of Shame politician is Troy Mayor Janice room set on a stage in the community center’s Daniels whose homophobic remark on Facebook large front windows. From 9 a.m. to 9 a.m. the sparked national outrage and led to a successful next day, protestors will go without food in a recall petition drive to force her out of office. She symbolic strike to raise awareness and educate will face voters on Nov. 6. the public. During the first week, directors from all eight Michigan LGBT centers will each participate in one day of striking. They will return United Front to their local communities with Hungry4Equality Kalamazoo Community Resource Center Executive “It’s incredibly important for all the LGBT information to share with supporters. Director Zach Bauer on day two of the 100 Day hunger centers in Michigan to work together,” Bauer Individuals and groups can sign-up for a shift. strike at Affirmations Community Center in Ferndale. Left, Affirmations Program Director Johnny Jenkins said. “The people who are against us are Some high profile protestors have already agreed updates the signage outside the center. BTL photos organized, and they’ve won because we haven’t to participate including Ferndale Mayor Dave Andrew Potter been organized.” Coulter, Detroit City Council President Charles Tim Hekinson is chair of Perceptions, a Pugh, and County Commissioner Craig Covey. community center that serves Bay City, Saginaw The strike action will be viewable by people and Midland. He will be taking the couch over walking by the Center, and the 100 day event Hall of Shame on Friday for his 24-hours of service. “Like all is being live-streamed on the Internet. David Garcia outlined five areas where LGBT the groups around the state, we want to bring our Garcia, executive director of Affirmations took citizens are legally discriminated against. In attention to our allies and the movable middle,” the first 24-hour shift on Monday, starting his Michigan: There is no marriage equality; second Hekinson said. day with a round of press interviews and getting parent adoption is challenged; people can lose Garcia noted that in every civil rights battle, cozy with a Superman Snuggie in the evening their employment because they are gay or it’s only been won when allies stood up along as his spotters, Cass Varner and Johnny Jenkins transgender; public accommodation and benefits side those who are the target of discrimination. stayed on for support. for partners can be denied. But the advocacy goes Outside Affirmations, people stopped over and Security concerns mean that every protestor beyond just talking about these issues. ºGarcia over during the first day, to read the posters on must have at least one spotter with them in said the plan is to teach people why LGBT people the wall and peek in at the people inside. Trish the building at all times. The hunger strike face inequality in these areas. Cain of Clawson wanted to find out more, and has already made international news, with “It’s not just the current legislation and bills, was excited to see the center doing something as publications like Queerty and the Advocate but the people behind them,” Garcia said. bold as the Hungry4Equality campaign. picking up the story. Another group following organizations from across the state, are hoping That’s the purpose for the Equality Rights Hall “This is a civil rights movement,” Cain said. the strike is the religious right, where websites to reach their allies and to get them engaged. of Shame. These six politicians, plus the current “When Martin Luther King Jr. gave his ‘I have a like http://the-end-time.blogspot.com, are telling Kalamazoo Gay and Lesbian Resource Center Supreme Court, are all outed to the public for Dream’ speech, there were a lot of white people, readers things like, “As a side note, the LGBT Executive Director Zack Bauer said it’s all about their continued malicious attitude towards the some famous, standing up along with him.” people who plan this hunger strike are certainly “bringing awareness to the allied community. gay and transgender community. Those who want to help are encouraged committed. Are Christians as committed to God’s Lots of people believe in equal rights for LGBT State Rep. David Agema from Grandville agenda as Satan is to his own agenda? This is an folks, but they don’t know we can be fired for proposed eliminating HIV funding and See Next Page

4 BTL | August 2, 2012 www.PrideSource.com Trish Cain of Clawson wanted to find out more, and was excited to see the center doing something as bold as the Hungry4Equality campaign. She is seen reviewing the Hall of Shame politicans. BTL photo: Crystal Proxmire to sign-up to volunteer as hunger strikers or spotters. They can come in and work the phone The Community Center banks. Donating to their local community center is another way to show their support. Network Members

Affirmations Michigan Legislation Targeting Ferndale, MI Executive Director David Garcia Gay and Transgender People Scheduled to strike on: Monday, July 30 The following legislation is being reviewed by elected officials and the campaign is hoping Kalamazoo Gay and Lesbian Resource Center to build opposition to these bills before further Kalamazoo, MI damage is done to LGBT families: Executive Director: Zach Bauer Scheduled to strike on: Tuesday, July 31 House Bill 4770, Status: Passed Eliminates health care coverage for domestic OutCenter partners of municipal public employees. Benton Harbor, MI Interim Executive Director Santiago Lopez, House Bill 5039, Status: Introduced Scheduled to strike on: Wednesday, August 1 Prohibits municipalities from adopting nondiscrimination ordinances that include gay KICK and transgender residents. Detroit, MI Executive Director Curtis Lipscomb Senate Bill 518 / House Bill 5040, Status: Scheduled to strike on Thursday, August 2 approved by the House Education Committee Requires university counseling, psychology Perceptions and social work programs to violate national Midland, MI ethics standards by allowing students to refuse President Tim Atkinson service to certain clients. Scheduled to strike on: Friday, August 3

SB 975, Status: Introduced The Network Would give medical care providers, insurance Grand Rapids, MI companies and employers the right to discriminate Executive Director Pat Ward in services offered based on a moral exemption. Scheduled to strike on: Friday, August 3

Jim Toy Community Center Ann Arbor, MI INFO President Terry McGinn Scheduled to strike on: Saturday, August 4 Hungry 4 Equality The Community Center Network, comprised of Detroit Latin@z eight organizations across Michigan has united Detroit, MI to bring awareness and urgency to their local Co-Founder/Board Chair Reynaldo Magdaleno, communities about the assault LGBT people are Scheduled to strike on: Sunday, August 5 under in the state. People can learn more about the project which will run continuously at Affirmations Community Center in Ferndale, by visiting >> www.HotterThanJuly.org www.PrideSource.com August 2, 2012 | BTL 5 BRIEFS DIA’s Smooth Operator, Broom WASHINGTON Democratic Convention - Source: Dems move to formally back gay marriage BY JULIE PACE Inspired to Push Detroit Ahead (AP) - A Democratic official says support for gay marriage is set to be included in the official party platform BY CRYSTAL A. PROXMIRE adopted at this summer’s convention. The Democrats’ platform drafting committee voted to include language backing same-sex unions DETROIT - Trying to photograph Detroit at a meeting in Minneapolis over the weekend. Institute of Arts Vice President of Operations Democratic delegates will formally approve the Elliott Broom in front of his favorite painting platform during the convention, which will be held in was an unexpected challenge. As the 47 year early September in Charlotte, N.C. old, brown-skinned, gay man posed, a group The push by several high-profile Democrats to of students on a docent-led tour poured into include support for gay marriage in the party platform the room and immediately pooled in front of gained momentum after President Barack Obama the piece. The teenagers’ excitement flooded voiced his personal support for same-sex unions the air as they pulled out their cell phones earlier this year. and clamored for a closer look. Some rushed The official spoke on condition of anonymity because to read the painting’s description, and others they were not authorized to speak publically about the stood in awe. platform committee’s decision. Broom stepped back and watched with arms The move was first reported by The Washington Blade. folded over his chest and a smile on his face. “Isn’t this great,” he said. “This right here is OLYMPIA, WASH. what I love most about working here. I get to Amazon CEO Gives $2.5 Million for Wash. watch kids get inspired by art.” The painting, called Officer of the Hussars Same-Sex Marriage Law by Khinde Wiley, nearly reaches the ceiling (AP) - Amazon.com founder and CEO Jeff Bezos and and is as wide as several students standing his wife, MacKenzie, announced Friday they are donating side by side. A powerful red sky and a smoky $2.5 million to the campaign to defend Washington’s battleground set a scene that is common in same-sex marriage law. European artworks which portray a heroic “It’s a game changer for us,” said campaign manager subject. And in the center, riding a big Zach Silk in Seattle. “It puts us in unique position to win.” white horse with a leopard-skin saddle and But, his group is still the underdog, he said. In 32 brandishing a mighty sword, is a modern- previous elections nationally, same-sex advocates have day black man taking on the world in his lost. Silk said he believes the Washington election may Timberland boots, low-riding blue jeans and be the turning point, thanks in part to the Bezos’ donation. chrisp white tank top. Amazon.com Inc. publicly supported the law earlier “He looks so victorious the way he is this year, along with other prominent Pacific Northwest portrayed,” Broom said. “For most of the young businesses, including Microsoft Corp., and Starbucks Corp. people that come through here it’s the first time Silk and officials with two national gay rights groups they have seen an African American portrayed - Freedom to Marry and the Human Rights Campaign - positively in art.” DIA’s Elliot Broom next to his favorite painting. say Bezos’ $2.5 million donation is the largest publicly Broom noted that in many paintings BTL photo: Crystal Proxmire reported gift to a marriage campaign. They noted that throughout history, young black men are gay marriage opponents have tried to limit the disclosure portrayed only as slaves or servants. “What The painting is just one of the many things group sales and visitor services.” Apparently of campaign contributions, so they couldn’t be certain I really love about Wiley’s work is that he Broom loves about his work at the DIA over the he is lead goof-ball as well, keeping the staff whether there was a larger one. typically takes modern African American males and puts them in a classic scene, making them past four years. The Detroit native spent many in good spirits with his child-like fascination HANOI, VIETNAM the hero,” he said. Officer of the Hussars is a years away from the city of his start, travelling and joy. all over the country doing operations in the His years of hotel management experience Vietnam Considers Same-sex Marriage modern remake of the Theodore Gericault’s classic of the same name done in 1812. hotel and hospitality business. It’s Broom’s job paired perfectly with his BS in Art History from (AP) - Vietnam is considering whether to allow same- Gericault’s work shows a French soldier in to make sure the museum’s building is well- the University of Michigan, and the timing of sex couples to marry or legally register and receive rights, uniform, complete with brass-buttoned jacket cared for and the staff is operating smoothly. the job opening could not have been better. positioning it to become the first country in Asia to do so. and black fur hat. It is currently on display in “I do everything but manage the art,” he said. “I moved around a lot. It seems like every The Justice Ministry’s proposal to include same-sex the Louvre in France. “Security, volunteers, events, food service, three years they’d open a new hotel or a new couples in the country’s marriage law has surprised opportunity would come up,” he said. “I was gay-rights activists. No one knows whether it will survive working in Dallas when they told me they long enough to be debated before the National Assembly wanted to move me to Florida, and I didn’t want next year, but supporters say the fact that it’s even being Vote YES Aug. 7 for the Art Institute Authority Millage to do that. I was done with moving around. It considered is a victory in a region where simply being gay Voters in Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne Counties will be asked Aug. 7 to approve a nominal was time to move home.” can result in jail sentences or whippings with a rattan cane. millage increase that, if passed, would provide essential support to the Detroit Institute of Arts. It’s Growing up in Detroit in the 70s and 80s, The ministry says the courts do not know how to a complete win-win for voters and the DIA, because residents living in counties that approve the Broom kept his homosexuality in the closet. handle disputes between same-sex couples living millage will receive free, unlimited general admission to the museum, including students on field “When I was in high school I remember the together. The new law could provide rights for owning trips, and there will be enhanced programs for students and seniors and bus subsidies for visits by gay community being in Palmer Park, but property, inheriting and adopting children. seniors and students. After years of financial instability due to budget cuts in city and state funding, they weren’t protected. There were hate crimes the DIA would finally have secure financial backing for the foreseeable future. The .2 millage would happening and police turned a blind eye. I did Extended briefs are available online at: cost voters only about $15 per year for every $150,000 of a home’s fair market value. >> www.PrideSource.com See DIA, page 7

6 BTL | August 2, 2012 www.PrideSource.com Trevor Thomas Needs Phone Volunteers Before Aug. 7 Primary BY JIM LARKIN Pestka received $34,550 in PAC dollars compared to $5,000 by Thomas. He also Pre-primary financial reports show U.S. contributed $20,269 himself and made a Congressional candidate Trevor Thomas is $570,000 loan. Thomas loaned his committee attracting more donations than his opponent $7,012 and has not listed any loans. Steve Pestka, but that Pestka’s deeper pockets So that left Pestka with $451,591 to spend to will enable him to outspend his openly gay foe. Thomas’s $86,170 as of July 26. And that has Thomas urging his supporters, Pestka, who began running ads on July 12, has in an email video sent out July 30 – just 8 outspent Thomas by about $140,000 heading into days before the Aug. 7 primary – to help him the final days of the election. reach all registered primary voters by making Still, Thomas called his total contributions - phone calls either from their home or his Grand $293,582 to $228,522 for Pestka as of the July Rapids office. He called those calls “critical” 26 filing – record-breaking primary efforts for a and directed those willing to make them to call Democrat in West Michigan. 616-235-2012. “I’m fighting for a woman’s right to choose, “I really believe we’re going to come within fighting for our seniors, and fighting for our 100 votes in the primary,” Thomas said in the middle class, and I’m waging that fight with video. “Every little bit helps.” the support of over 2,000 contributors, most of Pre-primary reports filed on July 26 showed whom gave less than $100 each,” Thomas said Thomas had raised $107,867 more than Pestka in a press release. “Democrats need a candidate has from individual contributors, but that Pestka who will work hard to win over voters in the more than made up that large margin by attracting fall and our fundraising effort … shows I’m the more political action committee funds and giving only candidate in this primary who will do that.” more out of his own pocket.

® DIA Continued from p. 6 was excited about the class, saying it gave him so many connections that are going to be crucial not come out until after I moved away.” in further developing the city. And now that he’s back he is surprised at And of course his work at the DIA gives him how little progress Detroit has made. “Detroit the opportunity to inspire young minds and is very much the same as when I left. I expected bridge gaps between communities. The DIA’s to return to a great city. I was out of state, but I educational opportunities stretch far beyond the heard all these great things about the comeback walls of the monolithic historical museum. The of Detroit – the Super Bowl, the All-Star game. Inside Out program places weather-resistant I was really struck that we aren’t further along reproductions in public spaces throughout Detroit in the revival. I knew we were in a recession, and the suburbs. These temporary instillations but I didn’t realize that we were ahead of the inspire others to enjoy art, and attracts visitors curve and that the recession hit Detroit earlier to the museum. There is also a program with the than other places. Detroit Children’s Hospital where sick children “I also thought Detroit would be further along have art making workshops, and there are various in our relations. I was shocked to hear there are so outreaches and talks given at schools, senior many people who won’t go south of 8 Mile. The centers, libraries and for groups. only way Detroit is going to move forward is if Besides enabling him to do good community- city and suburbs become one and work together.” building, Broom’s job has a couple of more Broom bought a home in Midtown Detroit, in selfish perks. “I love art and I get a real charge an area where a third of his neighbors happen to watching the docents do their tour, and I love be gay. “My plan is to stick around,” he said. “I being able to walk through when there is nobody think I’m in the right place in the right time in my else here and look at the artwork all by myself.” life. It’s time, at age 47, in the middle of my career, He also gets access to the parts the public that I should be getting involved and giving back.” doesn’t see. “When I graduated high school I One of the ways Broom is giving back is by wanted to be an architect. It’s an honor working serving on the Board of Midtown Inc, a group that in a building designed by Paul Philippe Cret is behind a lot of the initiatives that are reviving and I love being able to see all the little details that neighborhood. Their Detroit Arts X project of it. Like the plaster dome. The dome that you and D-lectricity have infused the neighborhood see is not the true ceiling. Above the plaster with art, while development programs attract dome there are two more stories to the top, and businesses and homeowners and a security the whole thing is suspended inside by giant coalition keeps everyone feeling secure. cables. Most people don’t realize that, or get He recently spoke at the Model D Scarab to see it. I am fascinated by things like that so Club event to help promote LGBT leadership I am really lucky.” in Detroit http://www.pridesource.com/article. html?article=53972, and he recently graduated To find out more about the DIA visit from Leadership Detroit Class #33 through the >> http://www.DIA.org. Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce. Broom www.PrideSource.com August 2, 2012 | BTL 7 BRIEFS 100-Day Countdown to November SAN FRANCISCO Gay Marriage Ban Supporter Named San Francisco Archbishop (AP) - A vigorous supporter of California’s same-sex Election Begins Across U.S. marriage ban was named as the next Roman Catholic archbishop of San Francisco on July 27th. The Vatican announced that Pope Benedict XVI selected the Rev. Salvatore Cordileone, the presiding Team Obama Hits 150 Events Across the State bishop of Oakland, to replace Archbishop George Niederauer in October. Niederauer, 76, is retiring. BY KATE OPALEWSKI As an auxiliary bishop in San Diego four years ago, DETROIT – The National Weekend of Cordileone, 56, was instrumental in devising an initiative Action kicked off July 28, 102 days before to strip same-sex couples of the right to wed in California the November presidential election. As part and then raising Catholic dollars to qualify it for the ballot. of Team Obama’s 100-day push, supporters He also was part of a statewide network of clergy of President Obama’s reelection campaign that promoted the measure, known as Proposition 8. organized a nationwide, massive effort to Campaign finance records show he personally gave at canvass neighborhoods, register voters, and least $6,000 to back the voter-approved ban. conduct phone banks. This builds on the A Field Poll released in February found that 51 percent promise to be the largest grassroots campaign of the Catholic respondents support same-sex marriages. in history with more than 4,200 events planned in states across the country. ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. First Lady Michelle Obama released an NM School Refused Child of Gay Parents online video message (http://youtu.be/CbWk_ (AP) - An attorney says an Albuquerque Christian PYg600) last week telling supporters that with school has refused to enroll a student in its pre-K a tighter election than 2008 likely this fall, “in program because his parents are gay. the end, it could all come down to those last The Albuquerque Journal reports that attorney Shane few thousand votes in a single state.” With Youtz says a couple he represents received a letter that in mind, she launched the “It Takes One” from Hope Christian school saying their three-year-old initiative (http://www.barackobama.com/ day-of-action?source=WeekendOfAction- Activist and actor Jonathan Del Arco center (of The Closer TV series), stopped by Hotter Than July on son would not be able to enroll because of his parents’ Saturday. Soundstage director Innocence Milliown left and KICK Executive DIrector Curtis Lipscomb where sexual orientation. 20120724-HP) urging supporters to make a busy rallying the crowds at HTJ to “Stand Up & Be Counted” on Nov. 6. HTJ was one of dozens of events Youtz says the move is a violation of the New Mexico difference in this election, and to “start by that Del Arco worked to get the vote out for Pres. Obama. Photo courtesy of KICK. Human Rights Act. taking one action that will help grow our campaign” through outlets like digital media, An official from Hope Christian – which received voters, stressing to them the importance of their investments in grants to support anti-bullying advertising and grassroots organizing. $61,455 in public, federal funding for the current budget vote in the upcoming election. Del Arco was programs in public schools, and highlighted To help Michigan with this effort, year – declined to comment. born in Uruguay, a country in southeast South the efforts of anti-bullying organizations professional actor and political activist The New Mexico Human Rights Act prohibits America. He emigrated with his family to New nationwide. Jonathan Del Arco was knocking on doors discrimination in “public accommodations.” It also bans York at age 10. While addressing the Latino “Obama reversed a ridiculous 22-year-old throughout Metro Detroit to talk with folks discrimination based sexual orientation. The statute community, he reflected upon the relentless travel and immigration ban against people about what’s at stake in November, and to allows religious-based organizations to discriminate on bullying he endured throughout his teenage with HIV, and he welcomed the world’s largest ensure they have all the information they need that basis, but not if they have nonprofit status. years and into his adult life. international AIDS conference to the U.S. to be prepared to vote. “In the past 20 years, it has been a challenge in Washington D.C. for the first time since “I have to do whatever I can to get Obama JACKSON, MISS. 1990,” said Del Arco, who lost his first partner reelected,” said Del Arco, who plays Dr. to AIDS around the age of 24. “I have lived SPLC Wants Miss. Officials to End Gay Morales, the openly gay medical examiner on through a lot in my life. Now, I’m a happy Ceremony Ban the critically acclaimed “The Closer,” and who person living in a very open society in L.A. also is the West Coast development consultant (AP) - An advocacy group said Thursday it is in For any LGBT person to I believe it’s my responsibility to do what I for the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education discussions with state officials about lifting a ban do because of the sacrifice my dad made to Network (GLSEN). “It was an exciting and on commitment ceremonies for gay couples at the not vote and to not vote for this bring us to this country. The idea of America interesting experience encountering voters Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum. “ according to my dad is that it would always here. A majority in this neighborhood are president at the end of the day The Southern Poverty Law Center sent a letter to the be a place where his kids were accepted and supportive of the president,” he said. Jackson museum on July 12, threatening to sue if officials would succeed. This is the legacy of my own The self-proclaimed “political geek,” seems unimaginable. don’t allow Ceara Sturgis, 20, and her partner, Emily Key, 19, family that I continue,” he said. reached out to the Obama campaign following to hold a commitment ceremony at the museum on Aug. 11. Del Arco also made an appearance at the a visit to the White House in June with his - Jonathan Del Arco, actor and activist The state-owned museum refused to allow a similar Hotter Than July Black Pride Festival at Palmer husband and partner of 20 years where he ceremony for two men in February. The Mississippi Park in Detroit with the Executive Director of spoke to the FBI about LGBT issues. “It was ” Department of Agriculture and Commerce, which KICK, Curtis Lipscomb. He reminded 5,000 beautiful to see LGBT service members in their oversees the museum, has cited a 2009 state attorney attendees what the Obama Administration has dress whites celebrating with their partners. general’s opinion that says it can prohibit the ceremonies done for the LGBT community. “He is the first I’m pretty sure this would not happen under because gay marriage is illegal here. president to endorse that he and his family a Romney presidency and we can’t give that The SPLC is not challenging Mississippi’s ban on to keep LGBT kids from being bullied in support marriage equality. I was in my car and up. I strongly believe that if the president is same-sex marriage, but says the museum should allow school. We finally have an ally in the White cried when he announced it,” said Del Arco, not reelected, we will walk backward on our commitment and marriage ceremonies to take place House,” said Del Arco, adding that Obama who looks forward to touring the country to issues,” he said. even if the couple won’t be recognized under state law. hosted the first-ever White House conference talk about it in places where he’s welcome. Of the 150 Michigan weekend events on bullying prevention. Obama signed the “Obama’s accomplishments are so huge. It scheduled from Warren to Muskegon and cities Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Extended briefs are available online at: in between, Del Arco visited Kemeny Park Crimes Prevention Act into law, proposed >> www.PrideSource.com Recreation Center in Detroit to target Latino See 100-Day, page 9

8 BTL | August 2, 2012 www.PrideSource.com Attendees at this year’s HTJ events were educated on the need to turn up and help turn out the vote in November.. Photo courtesy of KICK. How Hot Was It? BY CRYSTAL A. PROXMIRE Council President Charles Pugh in attendance. We had spiritual leaders from around the country DETROIT – “How hot is it?” “Hotter Than for different faith institutions. And we had six July!” different workshops people could attend.” This is the rallying cry heard throughout the Lipscomb was also thrilled that Jonathan week-long Hotter Than July celebration put Del Arco of the hit show The Closer made an on by KICK and the Black Pride Society. For appearance. The actor spoke out about the six days Detroit’s LGBT movement celebrated importance of getting out to vote. and mobilized with a family picnic, a cruise Another highlight of the week was being able on the Detroit River, an interfaith service, a to give out HTJ’s first awards. Barb Murray, day of education and activism, a candlelight longtime executive director of AIDS Partnership vigil and more. Michigan was given the Milestone Award, and With record turnouts and a smooth-running Ron Turner, one of the originators of CHAG, event, Curtis Lipscomb, executive director was given the Lifetime Achievement Award. The of KICK said he was “overwhelmed with details of their moving acceptance speeches are happiness” at the event. “I’m so proud of the way covered in another BTL article in this edition. all the Committee Chairs did their part to make “We had a long-time community activist come this happen. Rev. Darlene Franklin organized the home after 20 years of doing AIDS work in New candlelight vigil that brought out the most people York, and it was so great to have him here. Ron in the 17 years of the event. Stacey Hale did a Turner has done so much for our community and great job with the Film Festival, Jeremiah Jones inspired so many people,” said Lipscomb. with Kickin’ it on the River, Walter Houston He said the picnic attracted tens of thousands and the picnic and Robert Tate with the Sunday of people, exceeding previous turnouts. Brunch that grew by some 400 percent. “And then my favorite part, while I’m proud of To find out more about this annual week-long them all, is the Annual Gathering that Cornelius festival, go to Wilson and his volunteers put together. We had >> www.HotterThanJuly.org Congressman Hansen Clark and Detroit City

® 100-Day just a few months. Continued from p. 8 “With the age of Twitter and Facebook, a lot of people have a lot of power in their would take all day to talk about them, but I realize hands that they don’t know they have to what an amazing job he’s done and what he can help mobilize. Please show up. Do not stay accomplish with another term.” home. It is unacceptable to stay home. For Joined by Mayor of Ferndale Dave Coulter, any LGBT person to not vote and to not vote Del Arco attended the LGBT for Obama Happy for this president at the end of the day seems Hour at SoHo in Ferndale as well, to meet unimaginable,” said Del Arco. “I’m sure there with and empower members of the LGBT are gay Republicans in this world, but what community to make a difference by voting in Obama has done for the community is enough to cast the ballot for him.” www.PrideSource.com August 2, 2012 | BTL 9 “We are grateful for the Platform Drafting Committee’s unanimous S/he Said vote to include the freedom to marry in its draft of the Democratic Democrats’ Marriage Equality Plank Party platform. As I testified to the Committee on Friday, the Democratic Michiganders respond to the Party has a noble history of fighting for the human and civil rights of all Community Center Network’s Americans. We are proud that the Hunger 4 Equality strike Marc Solomon Committee is including language that will ensure the Party is leading the way forward in supporting marriage for loving and committed same-sex couples and their families.” –Marc Solomon, national campaign director for Freedom to Marry, in a statement responding to the Platform Drafting Committee’s decision, washingtonblade, July 30

“They can kiss the presidential election, the House and now the Senate goodbye ... He can collect all the money he wants from San Francisco and Hollywood, but at the end of the day, San Francisco and Hollywood don’t elect the president of the United States.” –Brian Brown, president of Brian Brown National Organization for Marriage, regarding Obama’s fundraising in response to the DNC’s pro-gay Barney Frank marriage platform plank, politico.com, July 30 “I want you to be one of the first to know: After a unanimous decision on Sunday, the drafting “There was no press release from the committee for the Democratic National Convention Republican National Committee; no statement from the Romney campaign; embraced marriage equality as part of our platform no screaming headlines about an for the 2012 Convention. The next step will be “attack on traditional values” aired for the full platform committee to vote on it, after on Fox News. Democrats will become which it will be presented to the delegates at the the first major American political Convention in Charlotte for a final vote. Make no party to change its platform to mistake: This is a historic step toward fairness for endorse legal protections for same- sex couples who wish to marry, and all. Once again, Democrats are fighting to move Seve Benen ... no one is blinking an eye. this country forward.” “If the right saw an electoral opportunity by going on the –Barney Frank, Massachusett’s 4th district offensive on this, Republicans would take it. And therein Representative, on behalf of the DNC in an lies the point: the political winds have shifted quickly and email blast, washingtonpost.com, July 31 anti-gay bigotry no longer translates into votes. The GOP

didn’t attack President Obama when he endorsed marriage equality in May, and the party didn’t attack Democrats yesterday, not just because Dems are on the right side of history, but because Republicans no longer want to advertise about being on the wrong side of public opinion. Between this and the Obama campaign’s ads on reproductive rights, the culture war appears to have entered a very different phase.” Comments may be edited for grammar and length. –Steve Benen, Blogger for “The Maddow Blog,” in a column Join the conversation ... titled “Dems’ move on marriage equality draws no pushback,” maddowblog.msnbc.com, July 31 Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper”

10 BTL | August 2, 2012 www.PrideSource.com

BTL Viewpoint Vol. 2031 • Issue 775 August 2, 2012 PUBLISHERS Hungry For Change, Learn, Vote! Susan Horowitz & Jan Stevenson EDITORIAL ungry 4 Equality struck a chord as simply sit passively by and suffer the ladder nationally when it comes to how its Editor in Chief soon as it was announced. During this consequences of discriminatory laws that LGBT citizens are treated. Susan Horowitz political season many state and city will not protect us in employment, housing, As you think about the long-term [email protected] H politicians – in particular extreme Republicans – public accommodation, marriage equality and consequences of doing nothing, instead Entertainment Editor have been relentlessly attacking our community, choose to use this energized moment Chris Azzopardi it is a much-needed proactive step that resonates [email protected] to promise to do something that helps with many folks ready for direct action. educate and move voters to the polls Nov. 6. Associate Editor Affirmations Executive Director David Benjamin Jenkins Affirmations has an community engagement [email protected] Garcia and his counterparts in seven other area set up where you can participate in phone agencies across the state have finally said banking while dropping in to offer support Arts & Theater Editor ENOUGH! They have united under the Donald V. Calamia, to people who are willing to give up a few [email protected] Community Center Network banner to calories for equality. All the community mobilize and bring much needed attention CREATIVE centers involved will have voter education to the public about the assault on LGBT projects. Wherever you live, you can engage Art Director neighbors, co-workers and family members David Ano, [email protected] and make a difference. who have suffered at the hands of elected And the strike was not the only energized Webmaster & MIS Director officials in our state. base we saw during the past week. Hotter Kevin Bryant, [email protected] For the next 100 days, 24 hours at a time, Than July was in action with its “Stand Production Assistant individuals and groups will join the hunger Up & Be Counted” project. HTJ attendees Benjamin Jenkins, [email protected] strike housed at Affirmations Community got to meet activist and actor Jonathan Del Contributing Writers Center in Ferndale. Visitors, strikers and Charles Alexander, Michelle E. Brown, Arca, who was working in Michigan this past Dana Casadei, Abby Dees, Jack Fertig, supporters will see a display of the most weekend on behalf of Team Obama. Todd Heywood, Howard Israel, Lisa Keen, heinous politicians, posted in the window of BTL is so grateful for the spirit that our Richard Labonte, Michael H. Margolin, Affirmations and dubbed the Equality Rights Jenn McKee, Jason Michael, Kate Opalewski, statewide community is exhibiting. With Anthony Paull, Andrea Poteet, Crystal Proxmire, Hall of Shame. energy and commitment, we can educate John Quinn, Eric W. Rader, Bridgette M. Redman, And shameful they are. ourselves and really make an urgent and Leslie Robinson, Romeo San Vincente, As this hunger strike moves forward, Gwendolyn Ann Smith, Jody Valley, important change in November. D’Anne Witkowski, Dan Woog leading up to the Nov. 6 election, an election In the meantime, please remember to get Cartoonists that includes an opportunity to elect a new out and vote next Tuesday, Aug. 7. BTL has a Paul Berg, Dave Brousseau, Joan Hilty state House of Representatives, seat three list of endorsements for the primaries in select new Michigan Supreme Court Justices, and Contributing Photographers adoption rights. races where we can make a huge difference. Andrew Potter the next President of the U.S., this hunger As Garcia said in BTL’s news coverage, Visit our website to download our strike hits at exactly the right moment. ADVERTISING & SALES Michigan ranks at the lowest rung of the recommendations. LGBT families in our state can no longer Director of Sales Jan Stevenson, [email protected] Sales Representatives Ed Bohach, [email protected] Ann Cox, [email protected] National Advertising Representative Letters Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 Business Office Diane Smith, [email protected] PLease Vote! Nancy Blankenship The very best part about being an American Circulation & Distribution citizen is that not only do each and every Diane Smith one of us get to voice our opinions and Pride Source Media Group preferences in a vote, but that each of those 11920 Farmington Road same individual votes get counted. Livonia, Michigan 48150 Make the sacrifices of so many be respected Phone 734.293.7200 • Fax 734.293.7201 www.pridesource.com by your participation. Our rate cards are available online Become educated, take a friend or senior All material appearing in Between The Lines is protected by federal to the poll with you and vote. copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publishers. Between The Lines is supported Cathy Markes by many fine advertisers, but we cannot accept responsibility for claims made by our advertisers, nor can we accept responsibility Oakland County for materials provided by advertisers or their agents. Copyright 2012 Pride Source Media Group, LLC

12 BTL | August 2, 2012 www.PrideSource.com Equality Michigan: Turning up the Heat Where It’s Been, Barb Murray and Ron Thomas Honored at HTJ Where Is It Heading?

BY CRYSTAL A. PROXMIRE an advocate. I’m a staunch advocate soon be stepping back from activism. for talking about change. That’s what “Yes, I am moving towards retirement, BY CRYSTAL A. PROXMIRE AND SUSAN HOROWITZ leadership is all about, making change.” and the bucket list has Annie at the top DETROIT - “Sometimes there ain’t DETROIT - With the announcement of Equality Michigan Executive Turner noted that he didn’t have many of it,” Murray said, referring to longtime nothin’ wrong with puttin’ up your Director Denise Brogan-Kator’s departure in May and a recently partner Annie Eaton. “I could dukes.” That’s what longtime announced lawsuit against the organization by a former employee, never have gone this far as AIDS Activist Ron Turner said questions continue to arise as to the sustainability of the state’s largest long as I did without the love about the ongoing struggle to LGBT advocacy organization. of my life.” serve people with HIV and In the past two and a half years, since Triangle Foundation merged She urged members AIDS and to prevent the disease with Michigan Equality to form Equality Michigan, there has been of the African American from spreading. “Because the turnover in employees, executive directors and most recently key board community to stand up to struggle continues, we have to members. The vice chairman of the board, Alan Semonian, stepped down religious intolerance. And address the issues with some in June, and in July, Amy Hunter resigned as well. She had served on she shared her advice to force.” both the Equality Michigan board and as the president of it’s affiliate, the upcoming leaders in the Turner spent years in Detroit Equality Pride PAC. room. with organizations like CHAG, Most political analysts agree that a strong, LGBT political group is She praised the work of Community Health Awareness needed in Michigan; one that can articulate the issues, lobby legislators Rev. Darlene Franklin and Group. He and fellow AIDS on behalf of LGBT people, identify candidates who will advance LGBT told the audience “If you activist Barbara Murray, the issues and mobilize the LGBT community to get those candidates into get beat up from the pulpit soon-to-be retiring executive office. Although the need is clear, some question whether Equality on Sunday morning because director of AIDS Partnership Michigan will ever be ready to meet that need. Michigan, were given awards you are LGBT, stop! Get up at Hotter Than July’s Annual and walk out. Walk up to the Gathering on LGBT Issues. pulpit and say ‘No more!’ Current Situation Murray was given the first- That is not religion. That is ever Milestone Award, and domestic violence.” In an announcement July 25, the organization said a grant from Turner was given a Lifetime The loudest part of an “anonymous donor” had been given “to grow development and Achievement Award. Turner, Murray’s acceptance communications efforts.” The amount of the grant was not stated in who left Detroit twenty years message spoke to the futures the press release. “The funding will enable the organization to expand ago to do AIDS work in New of the Detroit-based LGBT their development and communications efforts without pulling resources York, currently serves as the organizations. “I want to from its successful slate of advocacy and anti-violence programs,” read Commnity Liaison for FACES challenge you,” she said. “In the release. New York, which grew out this room are three agencies The release stated that former Triangle Foundation staff member Greg of New York City’s oldest that I think are the guts and Varnum has been hired “to help with implementation” of the new grant. African American AIDS Service glue of the LGBT African There are currently five other employees and one intern. Organization. American community in In June, the board of directors set up a three-person team to help run Turner took time to share his Detroit. They are KICK, the day-to-day operations of the agency. Board members Dave Wait, Joy Ruth Ellis Center and Geng and Amy Hunter were put in place to assist the staff and handle view on the AIDS movement AIDS activist Ron Thomas and APM’s Executive Director Barb Murray as it stands today, over two they are AIDS Partnership financial transactions, however Hunter resigned from the management were both honored for their work at HTJ Conference. BTL photos: team when she left the boards in early July. decades from a time when Crystal Proxmire. Michigan, and I’d like to friends and loved ones were challenge you. You must According to financial reports, the budget in 2011 was $1.1 million, up dropping left and right from the support these organizations. 44 percent from $782,000 in 2010. Much of this increase was supported mysterious disease. years of activism left, and encouraged And you must give them your time, your by a multi-year grant from the Arcus Foundation intended to support “There is something I really want the people in the room to keep moving talent, and let me be blunt, your money. the 2010 merger and launch the newly formed Equality Michigan. But to address. LGBT inequlity. Me being forward and fighting for the change they “If your income is $10,000 a year as the grant funds ran out, fundraising did not generate nearly enough a black gay male, and a senior, some want to see. new money to replace the Arcus grants. might say a sexy senior, certainly I’m Murray too announced that she would Wait, the board treasurer, said that the 2012 budget, which has been See HTJ honors, page 14 finished but not entirely approved, calls for reducing staff and overhead in order to bring the budget down to $720,518. “We recognized that our current mode of operations was not sustainable,” said Patrick Schuh, board president. “We have pulled the If you have not seen the report about HIV and African American same-gender board and staff together to do an overall assessment of the organization; we are looking at our strategic focus, the organizational structure, and loving, gay, MSMs whatever title you use, if you have not seen the report it will scare the the scope of work. We are confident that an assessment of this depth “ will yield results. It will bring about an organization that is better able life out of you. Those numbers are not acceptable, and we are not done yet! to respond to the changing demands from the cultural, economic and political environment. We intend to bring the community into this - APM Executive Director Barb Murray process too, and we think they will be confident, like we are, in the organization and the future.” ” According to Wait, the total budget of $720,518 to operate Equality Michigan will come mainly from special events ($314,000),

See Equality Michigan, page 14 www.PrideSource.com August 2, 2012 | BTL 13 and has worked hard on the many Equality Michigan. He recently Creep of the Week ® Equality Michigan local anti-discrimination ordinances returned to Michigan after several Continued from p. 13 across the state. This is part of years in Washington, D.C. where a larger strategy to eventually he served as the executive director Bryan Fischer individual contributions ($147,000), get LGBT people included into of the National Youth Advocacy government services, i.e. funding the state’s anti-discrimination Coalition. He has also been involved BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI so-called bullies are picking on a to do victim services ($95,000), legislation, the Elliot-Larsen Act, in the Harvey Milk Foundation, multi-billion dollar corporation. As earned interest ($25,000) and by first mobilizing lots of people at GLSEN, the Episcopal Diocese oor Chick-fil-A. The company’s if a corporate entity’s political views grants ($111,000). The two main the local level. of Michigan and the strategic president, Dan Cathy, makes a should not impact the bottom line. And grants will come from the Arcus development of new progressive few disparaging remarks about remember, in this case it’s not just that Foundation and State Voices. initiatives, including the recently P Going Forward launched WikiQueer, a Wikipedia how marriage equality is basically the Cathy has a big mouth, but he also has $377,000 (52 percent) of the same thing as a big wallet. A lot of chickens have been budget is set aside for programs, According to Wait, the board like resource for the LGBT punching God in sacrificed in order to fund the anti-gay $219,000 (30 percent) for special plans to launch an in-house search communities. As a communications the nuts and then agenda. events, $101,000 (14 percent) for for a new executive director. He and development staffer at Equality the Muppets Fischer continued, “(Gays) have no administrative and fundraising and was also quick to add that no one Michigan, he will provide some of break up with tolerance for those who support the $21,000 (3 percent) for accounting on the current board is interested the functions that normally would the fast food institution of the natural family. None, and audit. Wait added that there are in the position. be covered by an executive director, chain and hell zip, zero. They have no room in their “a couple” more grants out there although the existing staff will not breaks loose. so-called ‘diversity world’ for people that he’s confident Equality report to him. For the time being Actually, who believe in natural marriage.” Michigan will receive that could The existing program all staff will continue to report Cathy has a long That’s right. The gays just want add to the amount of money to the management team of Wait anti-gay history everyone to get gay-married and have allocated to programming and staff continues to and Geng. rebuilding of the staff. For Bryan Fischer and Chick- a gay ol’ time. Anyone who wants one deliver results, despite fil-A has given of those icky one-penis-one-vagina example, the budget does not The Lawsuit millions of dollars to rabidly anti-gay marriages can stuff it. No pun intended, reflect the newly announced the organizational groups like Exodus International and obviously. anonymous grant to support A lawsuit recently filed in Wayne the Marriage & Family Foundation, a Fischer then sounds the alarm: “(T) Greg Varnum’s position. chaos around them. County Circuit Court is a new Virginia anti-gay group. he bullies at Big Gay are coming after The existing program staff potential expense and distraction Therefore, the company’s stance isn’t Chick-fil-A. They’re trying to take them continues to deliver results, for the organization. In Sept. exactly news. But you’d never guess from out, they’re trying to obliterate them, despite the organizational chaos With respect to Equality 2009, during Skillman’s tenure the uproar. Granted, there around them. Emily Dievendorf, Michigan’s involvement in the as executive director, Dr. Selma are legitimate concerns Even if every LGBT rights policy director since August 2010, 2012 elections, Wait said it is Massey was hired as the Director about a corporation so has built strong relationships in unrealistic for them to have much of Victim Services. She left the proudly flying the gay- supporter stopped eating at the legislature and was effective in of a role. He said that now the board organization several months later hating flag. I need not helping to frame the anti-bullying is waiting until the legislature is and, according to Wait, Massey point out that if Cathy Chick-fil-A the company is hardly legislation passed last year. Nusrat more favorable before focusing on had threatened to sue before and were shouting from the going to wither and die. Ventimiglia, also hired in August political organizing, and that they a settlement was made between rooftops about interracial 2010, is the director of victim “have fine-tuned a plan to be more her and the organization. He said marriage he’d have a lot services, a program that interacts realistic from a political standpoint. he was “surprised this is coming fewer defenders. But everybody who they’re trying to go Ahmadinejad on with law enforcement and provides We’ll be concentrating on local up now, this was settled years is all of a sudden screaming that eating Chick-fil-A, they want them wiped off direct services to victims of hate non-discrimination policies until ago.” He said that because it is a Chik-fil-A sandwich is basically the the face of the map.” crimes. Roland Leggett came in the legislature changes.” a personnel issue he could not same thing as aborting a gay baby needs Get it? Like how Iran wants to wipe January 2011 as the field director Varnum has already started at disclose more details. to get a grip. Israel off the map? Super appropriate As for Chick-fil-A’s fans, there’s analogy. Look, even if every LGBT rights nothing at Chick-fil-A anyone should The awards were part of a day- such as the state of the LGBT supporter stopped eating at Chick- ® HTJ Honors be putting in their mouths. So everyone long tradition of education and movement, economic justice, fil-A the company is hardly going to Continued from p. 13 rushing to the restaurant’s defense by empowerment within the Hotter health and wellness, knowing wither and die. And I can assure you, stuffing their faces with garbage is Than July festival. The day began healthy relationships, LGBTQ there are plenty of people who abhor I want you to give $5 a year to really only punishing themselves. And with welcomes from Detroit studies at a Catholic college and the company’s policies but can’t live KICK. Do it. Don’t wait until the chickens. Especially the chickens. City Council President Charles a conversation between youth and without their Spicy Chicken Sandwich Curtis Lipscomb comes to you after Mike Huckabee has even declared Pugh, U.S. Congressman Hansen elders. Dozens of participants (note to those people regarding life: [money] has run out and he’s going Aug. 1 Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day in Clarke and other community packed the conference room at the you’re doing it wrong). ‘What do we do now?’ Don’t wait order to fight against the liberals who’ve leaders. Workshops throughout Hilton Garden Inn in Downtown Still, Fischer’s Chick-fil-A rescue ‘til Laura Hughes comes after you declared they’re going to buy their the day focused on issues Detroit for the event. lifespan shortening meals somewhere fantasy is something to behold. “Let’s because you will not know how to else now. make it our goal to buy out every chicken say no to that woman. “Laura and Ruth Ellis Center For more coverage of Hotter Than July please visit our online site at And no one seems more enthusiastic sandwich that Chick-fil-A makes on >> www.PrideSource.com about this Aug. 1 “demonstration” than August 1,” he said. “Let’s send them out raises from people just like us over the American Family Association’s behind the restaurant with an ax to cut 50 percent of their budget. That’s There you will find the speeches delivered by the honorees, Bryan Fischer. the heads off of more chickens to feed a lot of money people. It needs to a photo library and links to video During a recent radio address Fischer people because they’re selling so many be more money. There are ten beds complained that gays were “trying to chicken sandwiches.” at Ruth Ellis Center. That is not present themselves as these innocent Firstly, what did those poor chickens enough. That is unacceptable. little victims.” In reality, he says, “They ever do? Secondly, yes, please let this be “AIDS Partnership Michigan, if are bullies. They are intolerant, they are exactly how the day goes. My guess is you have not seen the report about Please Remember to Vote August 7 vicious, they are mean, and they are after that slaughtering chickens out back by HIV and African American same- >> www.PrideSource.com people of faith.” the dumpsters would mean some pretty gender loving, gay, MSMs whatever Oh how I love the big-gay-meanies- serious health and safety violations title you use, if you have not seen the BTL has made endorsements in select races across the state. are-attacking-us argument from the and shut more restaurants down than report it will scare the life out of you. You can download those Primary Endorsements online. religious right. Especially when the protesters ever could. Those numbers are not acceptable, and we are not done yet!”

14 BTL | August 2, 2012 www.PrideSource.com Parting Glances What would Woody do?

BY CHARLES ALEXANDER

oody Allen – who takes religion, God, get-saved theology with a grain of salt (Epsom, no doubt) – quips W, “I don’t believe in an afterlife, although I am bringing a change of underwear.” (Woody adds, “I believe that there’s somebody out there who watches over us. Unfortunately, it’s the government.”) If a poll conducted by the First Amendment Center, a nonpartisan educational group, is indication, there’s a possibility that Woody’s choice, at age 76, of heavenly, wide-front briefs (assuming he’s a wide fronter) might be red, white, blue striped. According to FAC, Americans by a 55 percent margin have taken it into their collective salvation/sawdust trail heads that our nation’s founders – mostly Deists, agnostics, Masons, or, just as irreverent, High Church Anglicans – wrote Christianity into the Constitution. They did not. If you bother to read it (who does?), the United States Constitution is non-theistic: the word God (or Jesus, Christianity, Christ, Bible, or even Creator) does not appear in its wording. The only mention of religion in its original seven articles is (number VI) to proclaim “no religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust in the United States.” As reported by USA Today, Charles Haynes, a senior FAC scholar, says the poll findings are “particularly troubling.” And oddly ironic. “Americans are dying to create a secular democracy in Iraq, and simultaneously a growing number of people want to see a Christian state here.” Rick Green, spokesperson for WallBuilders, an advocacy group for government built on biblical principals, er, principles, says the poll doesn’t mean that a majority favors a theocracy, but that the Constitution reflects Christian values, including religious freedom. “I would call it a Christian document,” says Green. (How about Mitt’s Book of Mormon, which Mark Twain called “printed chloroform”?) Even so, “The scariest thing,” says FAC’s Haynes, “is that only 56 percent agree that freedom of religion applies to all groups, regardless of how extreme their beliefs are.” Reports USA Today, “More than one in four say constitutional protection of religion does not apply to ‘extreme’ groups.” (MCC- Detroit? Dignity? Lutherans Concerned? Westboro Baptist?) One more quote’s worth highlighting. From James Madison, our fourth president and time-honored Father of the Constitution: “Who does not see that same authority which can establish Christianity, in exclusion of all other Religions, may establish with the same ease any particular sect of Christians, in exclusion of all other Sects?” God knows there are a few “in”sects buzzing about. Latter Day Saints. Jehovah’s Witnesses. Seventh Day Adventists. Moonies. Biblical Reconstructionists. Christadephians. To mention only a few contenders in America’s religious, spiritual turf (and monetary) wars. Make no mistake! There’s a power struggle going on. The fundamentalist/evangelical coalition is out, “gentle as doves, sly as foxes”, to make their “fundygelical” beliefs the dominant billy goat on the family farm, with us “lost LGBT sheep” its major scapegoat. If these right-wing believers are to survive they know gosh darn well that separation of church and state must go. Science, psychiatry, history, philosophy must take a backseat to their ad hoc Jesus. There’s no compromise in their Onward Christian Soldiers warmongering. One last Allenism: “If it turns out that there is a God, I don’t think he’s evil. I think the worst you can say about him is that basically he’s an underachiever.” Have a blessed day! (Give a fundygelical a Woody.) [email protected] www.PrideSource.com August 2, 2012 | BTL 15 Conference: HIV Rages Among Black Gay Men BY BOB ROEHR Remedies WASHINGTON, D.C. – An alarming 60 There is “an urgent need for bold action and percent of black men who have sex with men leadership, not business as usual, at every level (MSM) in the U.S. will become infected with to reduce the epidemic among Black MSM in HIV by the age of 40, according to the latest America,” said Wilson. He called for effective research presented at the XIX International AIDS targeting of Black MSM “with high impact Conference in Washington last week. prevention, to build sustainable community The HIV Prevention Trials Network study infrastructure.” (HPTN 061) involved 1,553 black men in six It is important that “that in the Black gay male cities – Atlanta, Boston, Los Angeles, New community people understand what PrEP [pre- York, San Francisco, and Washington – between exposure prophylaxis using the drug Truvada to 2009 and 2011. prevent infection] is, how it works, and whom it It found that 2.8 percent of the study is appropriate for,” he said. participants became infected with the virus each Fields added, the HPTN 073 study under year, a rate almost half again that of white MSMs, development, which he cochairs, will look at said Kenneth Mayer, the study co-chair and how to best use PrEP in combination with other medical research director at Fenway Community prevention tools among BGM. Health in Boston. Full implementation of the health reform “For younger black MSMs, those under the under the Affordable Care Act will be “perhaps age of 30, there was an HIV incidence rate the biggest game changer” for black gay men of about 5.9 percent per year, or about three said Millett. “It is going to help out enormously.” times the rate of white MSMs,” said Sheldon High portions of them do not have health D. Fields, assistant dean for clinical affairs and insurance. The Act provides coverage for persons health policy at Florida International University. making up to 133 percent of the federal poverty “These rates are comparable to (what is seen in) level, and has a floating scale of subsidies for countries in sub-Saharan Africa that are hardest persons with somewhat higher income. hit by the epidemic.” Phill Wilson, president of the Black AIDS Institute, addresses the XIX International AIDS Conference last week. Photo Bob Roehr Increasing access to health care will result Almost all of the participants in the study in higher rates of testing for BGM and linkage (97 percent) agreed to take an HIV test. More to care. That in turn will reduce the level of than half either did not know their HIV status An initial assumption was that BGM must “In terms of viral suppression, we are far less HIV viral load within the community and the or believed that they were negative when they have been doing something different from other likely, at least 50 percent less likely, to be likelihood that the virus will be passed on to entered the study, but in fact, 165 of those gay men that put them at higher risk for infection. virally suppressed (below the level of detection) another person. men (12 percent) were already infected and But evidence over the years has shown that is compared to white gay men,” he said. However, those provisions of the Act are not did not know it. simply not the case, said Gregorio Millett. He Each of these factors increases the likelihood slated to take effect until January 2014. More “Black MSMs in America are more affected is a researcher with the Centers for Disease of being exposed to the virus. It means that the importantly, they are dependent up states buying by HIV than any population in the developed Control and Prevention (CDC) and played a same level of risky behavior for BGM carries a into and helping to pay for an expansion of state world, it rivals the epidemic that we find in the leading role in writing the National HIV/AIDS greater risk of becoming infected than it would Medicaid programs. Many Republican and a few developing world,” said Phill Wilson, president Strategy for the United States, released in 2010. for other gay men. Democratic governors have been reluctant to take of the Black AIDS Institute. http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/ It is important to understand the role that on that long-term financial responsibility. Thus, “Black gay and bisexual men account for only 1 uploads/NHAS.pdf homophobia and discrimination play in the full implementation is not assured. in 500 Americans, but 1 in 4 new HIV infections,” “They engage in comparable if not less lives of Black MSM. It often plays out in Millett said the formula for distributing AIDS he said. “They are significantly less likely to be risky behavior the “down low,” funding under the Ryan White program is shifting alive three years after being diagnosed with AIDS than other gay particularly in from one based upon the cumulative number of than are white or Latino MSMs.” men,” he said. the South where cases to one that uses the current HIV caseload.

Young BGM Black MSMs in America are more many BGM from That should benefit the South where the epidemic Why in particular small downs and struck later but continues to grow at a faster pace “are less affected by HIV than any population in the cities travel to than in the rest of the country. The public face of the AIDS epidemic in the likely to have “ party in Atlanta. The CDC already has begun to shift prevention U.S. in the 1980s was of white gay men, “but amphetamine developed world, it rivals the epidemic that But that situation and testing support to target communities most from 1985 on there was a disproportionate use, injection provides little at risk, particularly black MSM. impact in the African American community,” drug use, less we find in the developing world. social support for Shame, discrimination, homophobia and said Cornelius Baker, a veteran AIDS advocate likely to use healthy living. poverty are important underlying structural based in Washington, DC. “We failed very drugs during - Phill Wilson, president of the Black AIDS Institute. Atlanta is factors that must be addressed. “If we are early on to grapple as a country, to wrestle sex, but they are the epicenter of going to mobilize black gay men, maybe we with that disparity.” still five times ” AIDS for Black need to mobilize across broader issues than He said it is important to acknowledge the more likely to MSM. While just HIV, talking about poverty, talking about proactive steps that black gay men (BGM) have be HIV-positive other big city unemployment, talking about those structural taken to educate themselves and create a sense and two-and-a-half times more likely to have a hospitals have closed their AIDS wards, Grady factors,” said Wilson. of community and support, often in the face of STD (sexually transmitted disease).” Memorial still fills 30-40 beds with patients racism, AIDS phobia, and homophobia within “We need to refocus on the context,” Millett suffering from opportunistic infections that are A report from the Black AIDS Institute issued in July, the the broader black community. said. A leading factor is that the prevalence of preventable if the patient is receiving medical 76-page Back of the Line: The State of AIDS among Black It has been difficult to financially sustain those HIV is higher among the pool of BGM they care, said Carlos del Rio, an AIDS doc at Gay Men in America 2012 documents the scope of the epidemic among that community. Fields said they will be efforts because of high rates of poverty within the tend to have sex with. Higher rates of poverty Emory University. Often that care begins much updating research priorities in light of new data presented black community that limit both financial support also mean that BGMs are less likely to be under later than it should. at the Conference. To see this document, go to for organizations and access to healthcare, medical care for their HIV. >> www.blackaids.org/docs/back.pdf according to Baker.

16 BTL | August 2, 2012 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com August 2, 2012 | BTL 17 Cool Cities Lansing

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18 BTL | August 2, 2012 www.PrideSource.com Provincetown Picks

Best Bets for a Trip to the Cape

BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI

he thick smell of seafood isn’t something Michigan offers unless you’re in the Red Lobster parking lot. But in Boston, at Bay TState Cruise Company’s pier at World Trade Center, the lingering aroma of fresh fish followed me all the way on the 90-minute fast ferry to Provincetown. Part of the reason you to go to P-Town is for the food (duh), and, if you’re gay, you go there because … you’re gay. For something a little different – besides, of course, the famous tea so it’s not cheap. Cod by a local magazine (I’d go as far as dance that originated there and lots of gay bars But to enjoy authentic New England cuisine – saying one of the best anywhere), they even along Commercial Street – consider a beachside clam chowder, littleneck clams in a wine broth, offer gourmet sandwiches for people who like clambake, a scenic bike ride or a night of gut- 1 1/2-pound steamed lobsters, jerk chicken and to eat heartier before they dive into something follow the recently renovated National Seashore busting laughter with a bawdy queen. jalapeno corn bread with honey butter – around sinfully delicious. Ann and Peter, see you soon Bike Trails for views of dunes, forest, ponds and a roaring bonfire, the experience is priceless. for my sugar fix. www.thepurplefeather.com. the ocean. Wanna get naked? Take it to Herring CLAMBAKE www.ptownparties.com. Cove, a lovely spot that’s also home to an unofficial BIKING nude beach. Oh yeah, baby. www.ptownbikes.com. Lone travelers might go for the scrumptious PURPLE FEATHER scallops at the Central House at the Crown or a A car in P-Town? Don’t be silly. The best way to DINA MARTINA Lucky Dog lobster po’boy, but for groups – or It’s not just the almond-crunch gelato and get around, considering how many people walk even for honeymooners (gay marriage is legal in homemade fudge that are sweet at the Purple along the main drag, is to hop on a bicycle (just Lip-syncing is one thing, but to truly perfect Massachusetts!) – who love their seafood, don’t Feather. It’s the couple that owns it: Ann Okun and ask John Waters). It’s safe, hassle-free and a nice a complete character – that takes talent. Dina pass up the chance to have a full-course seafood her husband Peter. The couple’s always smiling – way to expose your ass crack to all the other gays. Martina has that and a lot of raunchy jokes, meal prepared in front of you. On the beach. As who wouldn’t be, working around freshly baked Commercial Street makes it easy – take the bike butchered songs from yesterday and today, tasteless the sun is setting. The bake itself is just over $60 a pastries, dozens of gelato flavors and specialty both ways and, should you want to stop somewhere, costumes and absurdly hilarious video footage of person, with a $150 staff cost for up to 15 people, coffee drinks? Named Best Ice Cream on Cape the area has racks everywhere. For a scenic jaunt, See Provincetown, page 24 www.PrideSource.com August 2, 2012 | BTL 19 8 12 20 5 13 24 B 9 25 14 Cool Cities 21 16 18 1022 23 Royal Oak LGBT Non-Profits 7 Common Ground...... A 17 586-573-9932 3 6 Gay/Lesbian Educators Association Of Michigan...... * 19 11 586-573-9932 Higher Ground...... * 2 www.hghiv.org 1 15 26 Lambda Car Club...... * lccdetroit.org 4 Sing Out Detroit Chorus...... B www.singoutdetroit.com Steppin’ Out AIDS Walk Detroit...... * www.aidswalkdetroit.org A

BTL Advertisers Edward Korkoian Funeral Home.* Motor City Auto Spa...... 13 Royal Oak Farmer’s Market...... 20 Attorney Pierce...... 1 Five 15...... 7 Namaste Yoga...... 14 Royal Oak Music Theatre...... 21 Autometic Body Shop...... * Fuller Life...... 8 New Beginnings Counseling Runaway Bride...... * Center...... 15 B&B Collission...... 2 Steven M Gittleman...... 1 Shelton & Dean Law Office..... 22 Noir Leather...... 16 Bidwell Tovarez Pllc...... 3 Harbour Tax & Accounting...... * Stagecrafters...... 23 North Main Animal Hospital...... * Buttons Rent-it...... 4 Thomas Herbst, Md...... 9 Sullivan & Son Funeral Directors.24 Thane Ostroth Dds...... * C & N Party Rentals...... * Ital Moda...... * Matt Sweet, MSW, PC...... 1 YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD • YOUR MARKET Dr. Bernadine Petzold Christine Cantrell, Ph.D...... 5 Denise Joseph, Ph.D...... 5 PhD, L.P.C. B.C.P.C...... 10 Susie Symons, Ma, Lpc...... 9 Pinpoint your ad dollars where Changez Salon...... * Rosemary A. Jozwiak Two Bags & A Mower...... * and Associates...... 10 The Print Stop...... * Cloverleaf Fine Wine...... 6 Ron T. Williamson Dds...... 25 they will do the most good . . . Joe Kort, Ph.D. & Associates, PC.. 1 Pronto! Restaurant D.J. Murray Plumbing...... * & Video Bar...... 17 ZMC Pharmacy...... 26 Advertise in the next Cool Cities Kuderik & Associates...... 11 Daniel Joseph Salon...... * Rasor Law Firm...... 18 Manzo Eye Care...... 12 TO PLACE AN AD CALL 734.293.7200 Carol Dufraine Attorney At Law..* RE/MAX Jim Shaffer...... 19 * Not shown on map Miner’s Den...... *

20 BTL | August 2, 2012 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com August 2, 2012 | BTL 21 YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD • YOUR MARKET Pinpoint your ad dollars where Shakespeare in the Park Cool Cities they will do the most good . . . Advertise in the next Cool Cities Royal Oak TO PLACE AN AD CALL 734.293.7200

Popular works to be performed in Royal Oak

Michigan’s biggest outdoor theater event, and 7 p.m. Aug. 7 and 8. Tickets are $6 and good Shakespeare in the Park, will run through August for any performance. with shows like “Henry V,” “A Midsummer “Summer Sonnets” is a magical hour in the Night’s Dream” and “Summer Sonnets,” park with the Bard’s legendary poetry set to presented by Water Works Theatre. a modern tale by playwright Audra Lord, and Don’t miss “Henry V,” Shakespeare’s greatest directed by JM Ethridge. “Summer Sonnets” hero, from Aug. 2-12 at 8 p.m. Fridays and plays at 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Aug. 4, Saturdays and 5 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are $20 5, 11 and 12. Admission is free. and good for any performance. “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” directed by Barton Bund and starring five actors who play For more information on Shakespeare in the Park, all the roles, returns as a fun hour for the whole thou shalt visit: family. Catch it at 1 p.m. Aug. 4, 5, 11 and 12, >> www.waterworkstheatre.com

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22 BTL | August 2, 2012 www.PrideSource.com Cool Cities Royal Oak

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private parties. Not to mention their food: ® Provincetown Chef Lucio Garnica offers a memorable culinary Continued from p. 19 experience with uniquely prepared cocktails and sharable small plates. The peanut butter and bacon her in recognizable shows. Her stints are always rolls – made special at the time – changed my life. changing, and townies tell me she’s best when she’s www.sageinnptown.com. completely off-the-cuff, but her dose of demented cartoon comedy is a brilliant way to spend a night with friends. www.dinamartina.com. WHALE WATCH It’s a four-hour commitment, but seeing those DUNES mighty mammals in their natural habitat on a whale watch is still a hoot. A boat takes you out to If you do the dunes tour, you’ll probably hear the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary the story of the Man Who Hates People (his real – home to vast marine life including whales, name escapes me, but that about sums him up). dolphins, sea turtles and sea birds that like to ride He isolates himself in the sandy parts outside of the behemoths’ backs – and lets the whales show town, where he walks down a steep slope to get off. The humpbacks, minkes and finbacks peek water. No thanks. It’s interesting, however, to hear out of the water, flip their tails and make use of about him and other shack dwellers who live on their blowholes. After a while, it becomes just the outskirts, where famous artists and writers as much fun watching the camera-crazy people like Eugene O’Neill found inspiration. Known flock from side to side of the boat to catch these as the dunes of the Province Lands of the Cape whales in action. www.whalewatch.com. Cod National Seashore, the area is a surprisingly sprawling mass of beach grass and pines – just beautiful sky overhead. Snap away! www. CARPE DIEM GUESTHOUSE artsdunetours.com. As soon as I walked into this luxury resort in the heart of Provincetown, I was charmed. Dessert SAGE INN wine in the guesthouse? A homemade German- style breakfast? How lovely. It’s the perfect place Leave it to two lesbians to take on the major to unwind, lounge in the secluded courtyard and renovations of a former Pilgrim House from get lost in a novel. They also have a hot tub, steam 1800s that caught fire in 1990. Diane DiCarlo room, spa – and, after dark, clothes are optional. and Jeanne Leszczynski added a newly designed The Victorian-style rooms are adorable; each is lounge with a fireplace, commercial kitchen and a uniquely furnished and named after historical custom-built first floor welcome desk. The space authors (I was in “James Baldwin”). The little is modern, inviting and has become a popular things make a big difference at Carpe Diem. place for hanging with friends and holding www.carpediemguesthouse.com.

24 BTL | August 2, 2012 www.PrideSource.com Hear Me Out BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI Frank Ocean Comes Out With Stunning Debut. Plus: Whitney’s Final Songs in ‘Sparkle’

the wake of Whitney’s death. It’s not the best song on the Motown-inspired soundtrack, also featuring Jordin Sparks and Cee Lo Green, but it’s definitely a standout. Sparks’ song with Houston, “Celebrate,” goes for Disney cutesiness with a disco-lite sound that makes it an easy listen, but Sparks does all the heavy lifting. If only there were more to celebrate. And elsewhere, there is: Soul singer Goapele’s own song, “Running,” has classic ’60s written all over it, Sparks’ “One Wing” is an inspiring ballad with a showy climax of diva runs, and Cee Lo keeps “I’m a Man” fresh without losing that trademark blues sound. More on that level and “Sparkle” could really shine. Grade: B-

Also Out Gentleman Reg, ‘Leisure Life Part One’ The five songs on the queer Canadian’s EP is just the beginning: Two more are due shortly, before a full-length hits in the fall (how very Robyn of you, Reg). If this one’s any indication, the Frank Ocean, ‘channel ORANGE’ 24-year-old who once guested for Jay-Z and indie outsider – known for lo-fi folk that eventually becomes background music on Even if Frank Ocean hadn’t recently wrote for Beyoncé steps into superstardom. popular TV dramas – goes for power-pop acknowledged that he’s an equal-opportunity The album shot to No. 2 on the pop charts on “I Could Be What You Wanted,” about lover, becoming one of the first major hip- in its first week, and rightfully so: “channel a pair of star-crossed lovers, and the synth- hop artists to come out, his very personal ORANGE” is a soul-baring piece of hip-hop swirled “Waiting Around for Gold.” Both major-label debut doesn’t hide a thing: art. And that has nothing to do with who’s sound progressively rich. His androgynous He’s living it up with a lady on “Super Rich in his bed at night. Grade: A- voice, however, is still an acquired taste. Kids,” but he’s sad that his man doesn’t love Proceed with an open mind. him back on the sorrowful “Bad Religion” – ‘Sparkle’ the guy he referenced in a public letter. Not soundtrack only is his storytelling strewn with poetic Jennifer Lopez, vividness about a lonesome taxi ride and the Near the end ‘Dance Again … feeling of “steak knives,” but when his tenor of Whitney The Hits’ – over an escalating instrumental palette Houston’s life, Thanks to – hits a vulnerable falsetto, he breaks you the super belt that “American Idol,” into pieces. The rest of Ocean’s remarkable made the singer Jennifer Lopez’s work stays away from R&B conventions, a star had been career found a too: “Sweet Life” grooves with an old- reduced to a rough whimper. One of the most second life. But time feeling that’s got hit power without treasured vocal icons of our time lost its the fly girl’s best dance songs still go back bringing bitches and hoes into the mix; unparalleled power. Nothing, though, could to the first, when she initially made the “Forrest Gump” is a bittersweet confessional take away the spirit and soul inside it. Both actress-to-singer transition with “Waiting Visit our website! about, presumably, the same boy who has find their way into her version of “His Eye for Tonight” and “If You Had My Love.” his heart; “Lost,” percolating with gaming- is on the Sparrow” from her first movie in 15 http://www.pridesource.com It’s easy to forget the genius of those – noise blips, is sexy, liberating and good years, which would also tragically become especially the slinky former single – when Add our fan page! enough to go on for another five minutes. her last; it doesn’t capture Houston at her what she’s recently released doesn’t exactly His influences are everywhere, from classic vocal zenith, but there’s no denying she feels Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” have the same charm. “Feelin’ So Good” is Mary J. Blige references to the Stevie every word of it: Over just piano, she – along another reminder of how good Jenny From Wonder and Prince sounds that are heard in with a choir – carries the song hauntingly Follow us! the Block could be when she had a simple the caramel-smoothness of his voice. But into a moving posthumous paean. “I sing beat, a rapper du jour and lighthearted @YourBTL this is obviously Ocean’s moment, as the because I’m free” is all the more powerful in lyrics about … nothing. www.PrideSource.com August 2, 2012 | BTL 25 The Majestic “The Hague” Portland, OR Jolly Roger and the Pirate Queen $5. quintet The Hague are churning out smart, The All Of Us Express Children’s Theatre MUSIC & MORE indie-rock that pays tribute to the classics at Hannah Community Center, 819 Abbot while remaining true to their own agenda. Road, Lansing. Through Aug. 4. 517-319- Happenings CONCERTS Free. The Majestic, 4140 Woodward 6963. CityofEastLansing.com Farmington Hills Department Cultural Avenue, Detroit. 10 p.m. Aug. 11. 313- GOAL Book Club 4 p.m. Get Out and Friday, Aug. 10 Arts “Davin Scillian & Arizona Son” 833-9700. MajesticDetroit.com Seven Brides for Seven Brothers Live’s LGBT Book Club. Meets the first $25-28. The Croswell, 129 E. Maumee Black Lesbians Fifty and Over 6 p.m. The Named “Best country Perfomer” at the OUTINGS Sunday of every month at Five15 in Detroit Music Awards will perform his The Palace “Kelly Clarkson with The St., Adrian. Aug. 10 - 19. 517-264- new support/discussion group for Black Royal Oak. Get Out And Live!, 515 S Fray” Tickets: $27.50-75. DTE Energy SHOW. Croswell.org lesbians who are gracefully transitioning own special brand of country. Scillian is Thursday, Aug. 2 Washington, Royal Oak. 248-515-2551. Music Theatre, 7774 Sashabaw , into their 50s and beyond. Meetings cover backed by the amazing Arizona Son, a GetOutAndLive.me Clarkston. 7 p.m. Aug. 10. 248-377- She Loves Me $10. The Penny Seats at Jewish Gay Network Family & Friends topics relevant to the aging process and group that opened for such well-known 0100. Palacenet.com West Park Band Shell, 215 Chapin St., 7 p.m. Meets the first Thursday of every Transgender Lansing Group Meeting include issues around self-care, family, singers as Reba McIntire and Lean Rimes. Ann Arbor. Through Aug. 11. 734-276- month. Topics vary from month to month. 6 p.m. Lansing chapter of Transgender romantic relationships, travel, retirement, Free. Heritage Park Amphitheatre, Heritage 2832. PennySeats.org This is a gathering of people who have Michigan meets the first Sunday of eldership in the Black community, etc. and Park, Farmington Road, Farmington Hills. 7 family or friends who identify as lesbian, every month from 6-9 p.m. Transgender are potluck. Contact Fela Smith for location p.m. Aug. 9. FHGov.com Will on the Water $5. Enter Stage Right gay, bisexual, transgender, or who are Lansing, 469 N. Hagadorn, East Lansing. and information at 313-978-7918. Black at Riverview Plaza & Palmer Park, 201 N. questioning their sexual orientation or Flint Institute of Music “Alyssa Smith” Riverside Dr., St. Clair. Through Aug. 12. Facebook.com/groups/56386266994/ Lesbians Fifty and Over, RSVP to receive An evening of solo marimba, percussion gender identity. Offering support and address, Detroit. 313-978-7918. WillOnTheWater.org learning about the issues impacting the ensemble, and ragtime xylophone music, LGBTQ and allied community. Jewish Monday, Aug. 6 Older Lesbians Organizing 7 p.m. including works by J.S. Bach and G.H. PROFESSIONAL Green. Free and open to the public; Gay Network, 6600 W. Maple Road, West PFLAG Richland 7 p.m. Meets the first Provides older Lesbians with the chance to A Midsummer Night’s Dream A one- Bloomfield. 248-432-5661. Jgnmi.org Monday of every month, except Labor Day. meet like minded women in their common donations gratefully accepted at the reception following. All proceeds benefit hour family-oriented production. $6. Water PFLAG, 9400 East D Ave., Richland. 269- struggles, to share mutual interests and Works Theatre Company at Starr Jaycee Speak Out 7 p.m. Offers a welcoming 377-9401. [email protected] to play and work together. Meets the 2nd the Susan G. Komen three-day walk for environment for LGBT people to improve the cure. MacArthur Recital Hall, 1025 Park, 1301 W. 13 Mile Road, Royal Oak. Friday of every month. Older Lesbians Aug. 4 - 12. waterworkstheatre.com their public speaking and leadership skills. Tuesday, Aug. 7 Organizing, 319 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. E. Kearsley St., Flint. 6 p.m. Aug. 2. Meets the first and fourth Thursday of 734-995-9867. [email protected] Smithmarimba.com Abracadabra Magic Show $7. Tibbits every month. Jim Toy Community Center, Gay-Straight Alliance in Faith 7 p.m. A Summer Theatre, 14 S. Hanchett St., 319 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-995-9867. group of LGBTQ and allied young adults Kerrytown Concert House “Susan Kelly Clarkson at DTE, Aug. 10 Saturday, Aug. 11 Chastain” Celebrated jazz vocalist and Coldwater. Aug. 3 - 11. 517-278-6029. [email protected] ages 14-23 welcoming those of all faith tibbits.org backgrounds or no faith background, Transgender Resource Group 7 p.m. owner/impressaria of the Firefly Club for The Palace “Barenaked Ladies” With Friday, Aug. 3 honoring and respecting each person’s All ages, sexual and gender identities are many years. Joined by jazz colleagues special guests Blues Traveler, Big Head An Inspector Calls $12-21. Hope faith and spirituality. Alternate between members. Allies are welcome too. This is a Paul Keller and Phil DeGreg, the trio Todd & The Monsters and Cracker. Tickets: Summer Repertory Theatre at Dewitt Kiss the Best of My Gender 7 p.m. A mix topical discussions and guest speakers support and social group, with an emphasis will perform selections from the Great $25.50-75.50. DTE Energy Music Theatre, Theatre, 141 E. 12th St., Holland. Through of new numbers and old favorites from the on relevant topics for LGBTQ youth. Meets on advocacy and education. The Lesbian and American Songbook. Tickets: $10-30. 7774 Sashabaw, Clarkston. 7 p.m. Aug. Aug. 9. 616-395-7890. hope.edu/hsrt Drag King Rebellion. Drag King Rebellion, the first and third Tuesday of ever month. Gay Community Network of West MI, 343 Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N. Fourth 11. 248-377-0100. Palacenet.com Antony and Cleopatra $12. Pigeon 516 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor. Facebook. G-SAIF, 207 E. Fulton St., Grand Rapids. Atlas Ave. SE, Grand Rapids. 616-458- Ave., Ann Arbor. Aug. 4 - Aug. 4. 734-769- Creek Shakespeare Company at Dog Story com/events/148482818609115 GaysinFaithTogether.org 3511. [email protected] GRlgbt.org 2999. KerryTownConcertHouse.com OTHER Theatre, 7 Jefferson Ave., Grand Rapids. S.P.I.C.E. 7:30 p.m. S.P.I.C.E. works to Rainbow Writers 7 p.m. Come and share Meadow Brook Music Festival Train, Meadow Brook Music Festival “Ralphie Aug. 9 - 19. DogStoryTheater.com empower and enhance the lives of women your artistic talents, find people to read Sunday, Aug. 12 with special guests Mat Kearney and May” Tickets: $17.50-24.50. Meadow Banana for Turtle $10 adult, $5 children. of color in the LGBT community in Detroit, and edit/proof your work or just come Conversation Station 5 p.m. Topic of Andy Grammer. Tickets: $25-60. Meadow Brook Music Festival, 2200 N. Squirrel Rd., PuppetART at Detroit Puppet Theatre, 25 by eradicating the health, social and together to help one another discover discussion: What is the best could not put Brook Music Festival, 2200 N. Squirrel Rd., Rochester. 7:30 p.m. Aug. 5. 1-800-745- E. Grand River, Detroit. Aug. 4 - 18. 313- educational barriers facing them. S.P.I.C.E., their muses. The Lesbian and Gay it down book you have read? Get Out And Rochester. 7 p.m. Aug. 7. 1-800-745- 3000. Palacenet.com 961-7777. puppetart.org 290 W. 9 Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398- Community Network of West MI, 343 Atlas Live!, 714 S. Washington St., Royal Oak. 3000. Palacenet.com 7105. Goaffirmations.org SCP-Michigan and UR “7th Annual Ave. SE, Grand Rapids. 616-458-3511. 248-981-4227. MarciLWilliams@yahoo. Olympia Entertainment “k.d. lang and SCP/UR Backpack Music Festival” Two BoxFest Detroit 2012 $10 day pass, [email protected] Grlgbt.org com GetOutAndLive.me The Siss Boom Bang” k.d. lang is a pop day festival/fundraiser for Backpacking $30 festival pass. BoxFest Detroit at The Saturday, Aug. 4 Furniture Factory, 4126 Third St., Detroit. PFLAG St. Joseph/Berrien County and country singer-songwriter, occasional for Success. SCP has collaborated Aug. 2 - 18. BoxFestDetroit.com Transgender Pride in the Park 12 Wednesday, Aug. 8 Meeting 2 p.m. Meets the second Sunday actress, and four-time Grammy Award with Detroit area community outreach a.m. Celebrating the 15th anniversary Foster Care & Adoption Informational/ of every month. PFLAG St. Joseph/Berrien winner. She ranked number 33 on VH-1’s programs, and churches along with public of Transgender Michigan. Free food, and charter schools for the betterment Burn This Previews Aug. 2-5 & 9 Orientation Meeting 9 a.m. Family County, 4340 Lincoln Ave., St. Joseph. 100 Greatest Women in Rock and Roll in ($22-$32). $27-34. Performance entertainment and socializing. All trans- Service & Children’s Aid invites you to [email protected] 1999 and Number 26 CMT’s 40 Greatest and improvement of the students’ people and allies welcome. Transgender learning environment. Entertainment Network Theatre, 120 E. Huron St., Ann come and learn more about foster care Women in Country Music in 2002, one of Arbor. Aug. 2 - Sep. 2. 734-663-0681. Michigan, 1198 Earl Blvd, Ferndale. 517- Rainbow Book Club 4:30 p.m. Book includes: Derrick May, Eddie Folkes, and/or adoption. Informational/Orientation only eight women to make both lists. Tickets: performancenetwork.org 420-1544. TransgenderMichigan.org meetings are held the second Wednesday club dedicated to reading and discussing $45-61. Sound Board Theater, 2901 Grand Galaxy 2 Galaxy, Jeff Mills, Juan Atkins, of every month. Family Service and classic and contemporary lesbian, gay, River Ave., Detroit. 8 p.m. Aug. 9. 866-752- Mike Banks, Timeline, John Collins and Chaps! $12-28. Hope Summer Repertory Lesbian Euchre 6 p.m. No partner bisexual, transgender, and queer literature. more. Admission is through donations to needed. For beginners to experienced. Children’s Aid, 330 W. Michigan Ave., 9622. Olympiaentertainment.com Theatre at Knickerbocker Theatre, 86 E. Meeting since before 1998, every second Backpacking For Success. New Center 8th Street, Holland. Through Aug. 10. 616- Come join the fun and meet new friends. Jackson. 517-787-7920 ext. 54. Sound Board Theater “The Summerland Facebook.com/FamilyServiceChildrensAid Sunday of the month. Rainbow Book Club, Park, 2929 W. Grand Blvd, Detroit. Aug. 4 - 395-7890. hope.edu/hsrt Affirmations, 290 W. 9 Mile Road, Ferndale. 319 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-995- Tour 2012” Featuring Everclear, Sugar Ray, Aug. 5. BackparkMusicFestival.com 586-303-5977. [email protected] Coping with Disabilities Group 1 9867. [email protected] Gin Blossoms, Lit and Marcy Playground. Diary of a Worm, a Spider, and a Fly p.m. Group for adults with disabilities. Tickets; $43-48. Sound Board Theater, 2901 WellspringCori Terry & Dancers “Burger $12. Hope Summer Repertory Theatre at Sunday, Aug. 5 Discussions about LGBT friendly doctors, The Rubi Girls 9 p.m. The Rubi Girls are Grand River Ave., Detroit. 7 p.m. Aug. 2. 866- Bash” Tickets: $25 (Children 12 and Studio Theatre in the DeWitt Center, 141 E. a group of friends who began putting on younger, $10 with paid adult). Live music, Conversation Station 5 p.m. Topic of counseling, health benefits, and activities. 752-9622. Olympiaentertainment.com 12th St., Holland. Through Aug. 10. 616- shows for one another in an attic in the late dancing, celebrity judges, Best Burger and 395-7890. hope.edu/hsrt discussion: Who has been your greatest Every second and fourth Wednesday. The Ark Candye Kane; Tickets: $15. The Handicapped accessible. Affirmations, 290 1980’s. Initially, it was all in fun. When the People’s Choice Awards and more. This influence in life? Get Out And Live!, 714 S. AIDS crisis hit, they made the transition to Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. summer fundraiser supports Wellsprings Ernie $20-25. City Theatre, 2301 Washington St., Royal Oak. 248-981- W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398- Aug. 11. 734-761-1800. TheArk.org Woodward Ave., Detroit. Through 7105. Goaffirmations.org public performances in order to help raise Scholarship and Outreach Fund. Bells 4227. GetOutAndLive.me funds for those in the community living with Eccentric Cafe, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., Aug. 12. 1-800-745-3000. The Ark Harpeth Rising; Tickets: $15. olympiaentertainment.com HIV. Admission is free. CARES, 333 Blue The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. Kalamazoo. 11 p.m. Aug. 11. 269-342- Star Highway, Saugatuck. 937-694-2196. Aug. 6. 734-761-1800. TheArk.org 4354. Wellspringdance.org Fiddler on the Roof $26-32. The RubiGirls.com Encore Musical Theatre, 3126 Broad St., The Bling Pig Charlene Kaye; Born Zumba Fitness with Chandra Floyd “Zumba Fitness in Midtown Detroit” Dexter. Through Aug. 12. 734-268-6200. in Hawaii and raised in Hong Kong, TheEncoreTheatre.org Singapore and Arizona, Charlene’s love of De-stress and party yourself into shape Editor’s Pick music started with classical piano training with this calorie scorching, exhilarating, Fridays and Saturdays at Go Comedy! at age five. At 13, she began teaching and easy to follow workout with Latin and Go Comedy! Improv Theater, 261 E. Nine herself punk songs on her mom’s nylon international music. Admission: $8 per Mile Rd., Ferndale. Through Aug. 4. 248- In an Internet age consumed by social media like class. International Institute, 111 E. Kirby, Facebook, Twitter and Match.com, the idea of two lonely guitar and was further influenced by her 327-0575. gocomedy.net sister’s love of classic rock bands such as Detroit. April 25 - Sep. 26. 313-587-6203. hearts connecting as anonymous pen pals may seem Queen and Led Zeppelin. After graduating Facebook.com/ZumbaWithChandraMI Funny Money $15-27. Tibbits Summer from the University of Michigan with a Theatre, 14 S. Hanchett St., Coldwater. quaint. The Penny Seats theater company aims to correct Through Aug. 4. 517-278-6029. tibbits.org that assumption with its summer production of the degree in English, she moved to New York City to pursue a career in music. Tickets: Getting Strong - The Wiggles! Live award-winning musical classic “She Loves Me,” opening 10 in advance, $12 at the door. Blind Pig, THEATER in Concert $15-40. The Palace, 5 July 26 at Ann Arbor’s West Park Band Shell. 208 S. First St., Ann Arbor. 9 p.m. Aug. 11. CIVIC/COMMUNITY THEATER Championship Dr., Auburn Hills. Aug. 10. 734-996-8555. BlingPigMusic.com 248-377-0100. Palacenet.com “‘She Loves Me’ is about real people, with real flaws Avenue Q $16-18. Farmington Players, and real problems,” said returning director Jacqui The Bling Pig “Magical Mistakes” 32332 W. 12 Mile Road, Farmington Gruesome Playground Injuries $12; The Performing with Mutual Benefit, Little Hills. Aug. 10 - 25. 248-553-2955. Elizabeth Theater at Park Bar, 2040 Park Robbins. “It’s clever and sort of cynical in places, but Spoon, Dreampeter and Lou Breed. farmingtonplayers.org Ave., Detroit. Through Aug. 12. Tickets: $5. Blind Pig, 208 S. First St., Ann yet, it has this incredible romantic hopefulness. Audiences will be drawn to the humor and the Fiddler on the Roof $5-12. Warren Civic edginess…but will then hope, in spite of themselves, for the fairy-tale ending.” Arbor. 9:30 p.m. Aug. 8. 734-996-8555. Henry V $20. Water Works Theatre BlingPigMusic.com Theatre at Warren Community Center, Company at Starr Jaycee Park, 1301 W. 5460 Arden Road, Warren. Aug. 10 - 19. 13 Mile Road, Royal Oak. Aug. 2 - 12. Performances continue Aug. 2-4 and Aug. 9-11, all at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10. The West Park The Majestic “I Love Dinosaurs / K@ 586-268-8400. WarrenCivic.org waterworkstheatre.com Band Shell is located at Ann Arbor’s West Park, between Miller and West Huron. For more Dog” I Love Dinosaurs second to last show Getting Near to Baby $12-14. information, call 734-276-2832. of the year, and first Detroit appearance Hot Dog Mondays $5. Planet Ant Theatre, ever. Tickets: $5. The Majestic, 4140 Riverwalk Theatre, 228 Museum Dr., 2357 Caniff Ave., Hamtramck. Through Woodward Avenue, Detroit. 10 p.m. Aug. 5. Lansing. Through Aug. 5. 517-482-5700. Aug. 27. 313-365-4948. planetant.com riverwalktheatre.com 313-833-9700. MajesticDetroit.com Continued on page 29 26 BTL | August 2, 2012 www.PrideSource.com Kelly Komlen-Amadei and Peter Prouty star in "Gruesome Playground Injuries" at The Elizabeth Theatre. ‘Gruesome Playground Injuries’ Exposes Wounds of a Deep Friendship

BY DANA CASADEI REVIEW In Scene 4 – “Twenty-Eight: Tuesday,” Komlen-Amadei brought tears Friendships come and go, some Gruesome to my eyes as she talks to Doug, who’s in last, some quickly dissolve, but there Playground Injuries a coma. With many more wounds than at are others that are so special that even first sight, she’s heart wrenching to watch through distance, fighting and everything The Elizabeth Theater, Park Bar, 2040 Park as a woman who is slowly coming apart else you would still be there in an instant Ave., Detroit. Sunday and Thursday through at the seams. Aug. 12. 90 minutes; no intermission. $12. for them, and once together it’s as if you Friendship goes a long way, not only hadn’t spent more than a few hours apart >> [email protected] in the show, but also by those who put it instead of years. together. In the Michigan premiere of Rajiv While the ages of the characters The entire show is produced, directed, Joseph’s “Gruesome Playground Injuries” vary, both Prouty and Komlen-Amadei acted and designed by Wayne State at The Elizabeth Theatre, that special give breathtaking performances, no students past and present. Director Jordan matter the age. kind of friendship is what Doug (Peter Whalen, a 2011 graduate of Wayne State’s As 8-year-olds, they both have Prouty) and Kayleen (Kelly Komlen- M.F.A. acting program at the Hilberry childlike innocence and actions, such as Amadei) have. Theatre, enlisted fellow classmate Prouty The show begins with the two of the way their conversation ping-pongs and Bonstelle alumna Komlen-Amadei them meeting for the first time at age 8 in between everything and nothing, while as to act, and added current students Devon the nurse’s office, then alternates between teenagers they’re both awkward in a way Davey, Sara Hymes and Brian Scruggs going forward 15 years and then backward that any 13-year-old would be. as his artistic team. Everything from the 10, ending with them both at 38, each But as adults is where they both scarred in more way than one. have their shining moments not soon to costumes to the lights add something Spanning across 30 years in the be forgotten. distinct to the age that Prouty and Komlen- 90-minute performance, each of the eight For Prouty it happens during Scene Amadei are playing in any given scene, scenes revolves around a new injury 7 – “Twenty-Three: Tooth and Nail.” He’s making it believable as we slowly watch for one of the duo, ranging from an eye still the Doug we have seen earlier, but it all unfold. blown out by a firework to others that are there’s something different here, as he “Gruesome Playground Injuries” is much more internal and psychological. expresses his feelings for Kayleen and much darker than I thought it would be, Each scene discusses the history between tells her about the night that he saw her even with its moments of humor, but that’s the two friends and foreshadows some father to find out where she was living. OK; it exposes the scars and wounds that of what’s to come, but really just adds He’s angry and hurt, but wants nothing make these characters, for both the good to the depth of this guardian angel-like more than to protect her, something he and the bad, and that’s refreshing in a friendship, each being the life support tries to do throughout, even when he world where any sort of imperfection is for the other. doesn’t have it all together. often hidden. www.PrideSource.com August 2, 2012 | BTL 27 The OutField

http://www.pridesource.com/directory.html modations • Accounting • Adoption Services • AIDS/HIV Hotlines • A MICHIGAN’S LGBT YELLOW PAGES Nike Reaches the LGBT Sports Summit ations • Air Conditioning/Heating • Alzheimer's Association • Animal

es • Apar2012 / 2013 tments ONLINE • &Archives/ IN PRINT Collections • Art Galleries • Art Studios • s and Recreation • Attorneys • Auto Collision • Auto/Dealer • Auto/D Repair • Bakeries • Banks • Banquet Hall/Catering • Bars/Clubs/Disco BY DAN WOOG eling • Bicycles • Blinds • Bookstores • Builders • Business Develo • Cable Television Provider • Campus; Student and Alumni Groups • A few years ago, no one was talking t Groups • Carpet Cleaning • Carpeting & Rugs • Casino • Cat about LGBT issues in sports. Now, actors • Chocolates • Chorus • Clothing • Coee Shop • Comm everyone is. nies • Community Centers • Computer Services • Concert/Music • Co Suddenly, the game that dared not FROM THE PUBLISHERS OF te/DecorativePrideSource.com • Construction/Builders • Counseling • Counseling Ed speak its name turned into a cacophony. ertops • Credit Union • Cruise Planners • Dance Studio • Decks • De Legit sports organizations (the NCAA; ology • Drapery • Electricians • Entertainment Agency • Erotica American Alliance for Health, Physical s • Families and Parents • Farmers Market • Fertility Services • Education, Recreation and Dance) wanted ion • FinancialMichig Services • Flooringan’s • Florists/F LGBTloral Design • Foundatio to address homophobia in athletics. So did • Framing • Funeral Services • Furniture • Gift Shops • Grocers • Hair gay groups like GLSEN, GLAAD and the g • Hair Restoration • Handyman • Head Shop • Health & Beauty • He National Center for Lesbian Rights. • Home Care Services • Home Improvement • Home Inspectors • Ho Smaller organizations cropped up s & Switchboards Y• Insurancelloew • In vitationsPages • Jewelers • Kitchen Cab specifically around gays in sports. They Remodeling • Lamps/Lighting • Landscape Supp had names like Athlete Ally, Our Group, ping/Nurseries •in Leather Print Gear • Legal or Organizations Fully • Limousines • L the StandUp Foundation and You Can Play. e Therapy • Massage Therapy School • Mediation • Moving Comp You could not tell the players without ms • Music Groups • National Organizations • Opera Company • Optom a scorecard. Planning • PaSeartio Furniturchablee • Personal ChefOnline!!! Services • Personal Train Cyd Zeigler covers LGBT sports for n • Pet Boarding • Pet Day Care • Pet Grooming • Pet Supplies • Pet T a living. Co-founder of the very popular acyOv • Photoer 1000Booth • PhotLGBTograph Ownedy • Physicians and • Physicians/Gynec Friendly o website Outsports, even he was confused. cs • Plastic Surgery • Plumbing • Podiatrists • Political Organizations And he realized many groups were talking Printing • Professional Organizations • Psychics • Publications • Rea past – if not against – each other. Observing er • Real Estate/ABusinessesgent • Religious and & Spiritual Non-Pr • Renewableoﬁt energy • so much duplication of ideas and energy, he • Restaurants • Rodeo • Roong • Senior Living • Siding • Skin wondered what it would take to get a variety ommunity OrganizationsOrg • Solaranizations Energy • Spas • Sports • Substance ony Orchestra • T-Shirts • Tai Chi • Tax Planning • Tax Planning/Prepa of organizations into the same room. on Theaters Transgender Groups/Services Travel Tuxedo & Kirk Walker, head softball coach at Oregon State University, loved the idea. He suggested the perfect host: Nike. Walker had worked with the company in Cyd Zeigler. Photo courtesy of Cyd Zeigler. the past and had been impressed with their gay-positive attitude. means an athlete who plays on a winning But overriding those discussions was Robert Goman, a consumer product team, Zeigler says that from the time of a more important feeling: trust. “A lot of manager and head of Nike’s LGBT & Friends the Romans a champion has been defined the people there had never met each other. Network, was immediately enthusiastic. With not by trophies won, but by actions taken. Or they didn’t understand or trust them,” the help of NCLR Sports Project director “A champion is someone inclusive Zeigler says. Helen Carroll and GLSEN Changing the and supportive,” Zeigler notes. “We “Trust is a huge part of sports. You Game sports director Pat Griffin, the Nike realized how important it is to drive this have to trust your teammates. You have to LGBT Sports Summit was born. idea forward: that a champion includes trust a game plan. I think we really built The first problem was keeping the June and supports everyone on his or her team.” trust among the different groups. There’s meeting to a manageable size. “We wanted it The newly formed “LGBTQ sports a much better sense now of knowing when to be a working group,” Zeigler says. “You coalition” vowed to work to achieve several to lead, and when to follow.” can’t do that with 100 people. We kept it to goals. They will engage each of the major Zeigler adds, “The gay sports 25 so we could have real conversations.” American professional sports leagues to work movement has been going on for 40 years. Talk they did. Though Nike went toward inclusion. They will try to increase the But I think this is the beginning of the end all out as host – covering travel costs and visibility of out college athletes, coaches and of homophobia in sports.” He predicts meals; throwing a welcome party and Pride allies. They will devise an “LGBTQ inclusive that within four years, anti-gay attitudes reception at their downtown Portland store; model policy” for national youth and adult in athletics will have faded remarkably. offering meeting space on their Beaverton recreational leagues. Why four years? “That’s the length campus; welcoming Summit participants And they will promote a new, inclusive of high school, or the number of years you to march with the Nike contingent at the definition of “athletic champion” to young play in college. It takes four years for each Portland Pride parade – their real contribution athletes, while providing inclusive training group, beginning to end.” was providing leaders and facilitators. resources to physical education teachers Zeigler uses one final sports analogy On Saturday morning – after two days and coaches. to sum up the good feeling of the men and together – a Nike executive spoke up. “This “Everything we do, it’s ultimately about women at the Nike LGBT Sports Summit. is great,” she said. “But you’re not thinking youth and young athletes,” Zeigler says. “Part of winning is playing well big enough.” “That’s something everyone agreed on.” together. We’re athletes. We all know how Her words were electrifying. “Everyone Of course, any time over a dozen to win.” realized she was right,” Zeigler recalls. The groups get together, there will be group scrapped the rest of the day’s agenda, contention. At the summit, discussions of Dan Woog is a journalist, educator, soccer and focused on how they could “really, really funding were seldom easy. “Ultimately, coach, gay activist, and author of “Jocks” change sports in a big way,” he says. there’s a limited amount of resources,” says series of books on gay male athletes. Gradually, participants focused on the Zeigler. “Groups compete for funding. That danwoog.com. He can be reached care of this idea of “champion.” Though the word now came through very clearly.” publication or at [email protected].

28 BTL | August 2, 2012 www.PrideSource.com Transgender Pride in the Park Returns Aug. 4 BY CRYSTAL A. PROXMIRE INFO Transgender people from around the region Transgender Day will converge on Geary Park in Ferndale for the annual Transgender Pride in the Park event, in the Park taking place from noon to 6 p.m. on Aug. 4. 12 p.m. Aug. 4. Geary Park, 1198 Earl Blvd., The event grows each year, and among Ferndale. Open to all trans-people and allies. the new attendees will be Cary Marsh, 517-420-1544. Transgender Michigan’s newest board member. >> www.TransgenderMichigan.com Marsh is a 61-year-old FTM (female-to- male transgendered person) who joined the Michigan helped me in finding professionals organization four months ago. who specialize in transsexualism. Also I was “I have never been to one, but I do feel able to meet other individuals feeling the same with all the feedback I have been told it’s lots of as me, and got a lot of support that was needed.” fun , games, food and very friendly people,” he After having gender-affirming surgery last said. “I heard a lot of good feedback about it.” August, Marsh has found value in sharing his Indeed Transgender Pride in the Park success and evolution with others. “I think It’s is a good time and a unique time for trans- important to get involved to get out and show identifying individuals and their allies to get we are the same as any other person: we have together. Last year over a hundred people feelings. We love. We respect all people. And came to the event, many from around the state we need to show it by being out and about.” and Ohio and Indiana. One person came up In addition to his work with Transgender from Texas. Michigan, Marsh is active at Affirmations People grill burgers and hot dogs and many Community Center in Ferndale. “I co-faciliate bring a dish to pass. There is plenty of good food in two groups there Senior Koffee Klatch and any way I can for all transgender individuals.” the Pride in the Park Picnic and offer a 24- and opportunity to mingle, with Transgender Life Support. I also started a support group Transgender Michigan, which is also hour help line for those with questions about Michigan co-founder Rachel Crandal likening for loved ones and partners of transgender headquartered in Ferndale, provides counseling, transgender issues. the event to “a big family reunion.” individuals called S.O.S. I found someone information, advocacy and networking Learn more about Transgender Michigan at its Marsh said that when he came out as to take it over that’s not trans so all will feel opportunities for transgender people and their transgender at the age of 59, “Transgender comfortable,” Marsh said. “I want to help in allies. They also hold community events like website: http://www.transgendermichigan.org.

Pretty Fire $15-18. Threefold The Detroit Improv Festival $25. The Ann Arbor Art Center “Janet Kohler Flint Institute of Arts “Abstract July 7 - Sep. 23. 269-349-7775. KIarts.org Detroit Improv Collective, Inc., The Magic Pastels” Ann Arbor Art Center, 117 W. Expressionism” Drawing on works from ® Productions at Mix Studio Theater, 8 N. Michigan State University Museum Happenings Bag, 22920 Woodward Ave., Ferndale. 8 Liberty St., Ann Arbor. July 1 - Aug. 31. the FIA’s permanent collection, along with Washington St., Ypsilanti. Through Aug. 4. “Echoes of Silent Spring: 50 Years of Continued from p. 26 p.m. Aug. 9. DetroitImprovFestival.com 734-995-8004. Annarborartcenter.org important loans from regional museums, the threefoldproductions.org Environmental Awareness” The MSU exhibition surveys the art movement from its The Detroit Improv Festival $15-$20. Canvas Studios “Open Creativity Time” Museum revisits the publication of Pygmalion $32-$39. Michigan origins in the post World War II period to the The Detroit Improv Collective, Inc., The Open creativity is an opportunity for the landmark book, Silent Spring by I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change Shakespeare Festival at Michael latest developments in the 21st century. Flint Ringwald Theatre, 22742 Woodward Ave., individuals and groups to gather in a Rachel Carson, credited with launching $27-$29. Farmers Alley Theatre, 221 Baughman Theatre on the campus Institute of Arts, 1120 E. Kearsley, Flint. May Ferndale. Aug. 9 - 11. 248-545-5545. loving and supportive environment for the modern environmental movement. Farmers Alley, Kalamazoo. Through Aug. 12. of Jackson Community College, 5 - Aug. 19. 810-234-1695. Flintarts.org 269-343-2727. farmersalleytheatre.com 2111 Emmons Rd., Jackson. DetroitImprovFestival.com creative and artistic activities. Admission Michigan State University Museum, 409 W. $12. Canvas Studios, 306 1/2 S. Main St., Circle Dr., East Lansing. June 1 - Nov. 30. Through Aug. 10. 517-998-3673. The Facts of Life: $10-$20. The Ringwald Into the Woods $10. The AKT Theatre michiganshakespearefestival.com Royal Oak. March 11 - Aug. 12. 248-759- Museum.msu.edu Project at The Wyandotte Arts Center, 81 Theatre, 22742 Woodward Ave., Ferndale. 4633. thecanvasstudios.com Chestnut Road, Wyandotte. Aug. 3 - 11. Red, White and Tuna $20-25. Through Aug. 13. 248-556-8581. The Detroit Institute of Arts 734-258-8370. AKTtheatre.com Williamston Theatre, 122 S. Putnam St., TheRingwald.com Charles H. Wright Museum of African “Picasso and Matisse” Groundbreaking American History “The Chris Webber visionaries who constantly experimented Williamston. Through Aug. 19. 517-655- The Great American Sex Farce Junie B. Jones in Jingle Bells Batman 7469. WilliamstonTheatre.org Collection” Chris Webber, Detroit native, with techniques and materials. Features Smells! $12. Hope Summer Repertory $15-$18. Broadway Onstage Live National Basketball Association All-Star almost all of the works by Picasso and Theatre at Studio Theatre in the DeWitt Richard III $32-$39. Michigan Theatre, 21517 Kelly Road, Eastpointe. player (retired) and NBA announcer, Matisse in the museum’s prints and Cultural Center, 141 E. 12th St., Holland. Shakespeare Festival at Michael Through Aug. 18. 586-771-6333. collects rare artifacts that illuminate the drawings collections. Detroit Institute of Through Aug. 10. 616-395-7890. hope.edu Baughman Theatre on the campus broadwayonstage.com lives and legacies of African American Arts, 2100 Woodward Ave., Detroit. June of Jackson Community College, greats such as Phillis Wheatley, the first 11 - Oct. 29. 313-833-7900. DIA.org Love’s Labour’s Lost $32-$39. The Rocky Horror Show $34. Barn 2111 Emmons Rd., Jackson. African American author. 315 E. Warren, Michigan Shakespeare Festival at Theatre, 13351 W. M-96, Augusta. Through Aug. 12. 517-998-3673. Detroit. May 1 - Sep. 30. 313-494-5853. The University of Michigan “Man Up! Michael Baughman Theatre on the Through Aug. 12. 269-731-4121. michiganshakespearefestival.com TheWright.org No Balls About It” The Michigan Chapter of campus of Jackson Community barntheatre.com the Women’s Caucus for Art presents “Man College, 2111 Emmons Rd., Jackson. Songs for a New World $20. Hope Viva Le Cirque $15-59. DTE Energy Cranbrook Art Museum “George Up!”, a national multi-media exhibition that Through Aug. 11. 517-998-3673. Summer Repertory Theatre at Holland Area Music Theatre, 7774 Sashabaw , Nelson: Architect / Writer/ Designer visualizes the essence of power and the michiganshakespearefestival.com Arts Council, 150 E. 8th St., Holland. Through Clarkston. Aug. 3. 1-800-745-3000. / Teacher” The first comprehensive notion of “besting” oneself, other artists Aug. 9. 616-395-7890. hope.edu/hsrt retrospective of Nelson’s work. It Picasso at the DIA or men in general. This exhibit features On Golden Pond $17.50-40. The Purple palacenet.com Summer Sonnets Free. Water Works has been touring in Europe and most work of women artists including celebrity Rose Theatre Company, 137 Park St., Grand Rapids Art Museum “Cities in Theatre Company at Starr Jaycee Park, recently in the United States at the artist/juror and native Detroiter Suzy Lake. Chelsea. Through Sep. 1. 734-433-7673. Transition” A variety of vantage points 1301 W. 13 Mile Road, Royal Oak. Aug. Bellevue Art Museum in Seattle. Gallery in the Duderstadt Center, 2281 purplerosetheatre.org provide insights into how the constant 4 - 12. waterworkstheatre.com ART’N’ AROUND Cranbrook Art Museum, 39221 Bonisteel Blvd, Ann Arbor. July 12 - Aug. 9. Othello $12-15. The American Ann Arbor Art Center “Five to Nine: An Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills. evolution of cities responding to shifts in 734-763-0606. Umich.edu Shakespeare Collective at Dart The 25th Annual Putnam County June 16 - Oct. 14. 877-462-7262. population, industry, and land use brings Exhibition of Extracurricular Work From University of Michigan Museum of Art Auditorium, 500 N. Capital, Lansing. Spelling Bee $12-28. Hope Summer CranbrookArtMuseum.org both challenges and opportunities. Grand Creative Young Professionals” Along “Judith Turner: The Flatness of Ambiguity” Through Aug. 5. 517-372-0945. Repertory Theatre at Dewitt Theatre, 141 Rapids Art Museum, 101 Monroe Center, with a large collection of new drawings Epiphany Glass Studio “Epiphany Judith Turner is a noted American americanshakespearecollective.com E. 12th St., Holland. Through Aug. 11. 616- and paintings from Noellert, Detroit-area Grand Rapids. June 1 - Aug. 26. 616-831- 395-7890. hope.edu/hsrt Glass Open Studio” Opportunity to see 2904. Artmuseumgr.org photographer whose subject matter is Our Sinatra $36-$39.75. Mason Street photographer Daniel Ribar brings imagery the state of the art hot glass studio of mostly architecture. Turner’s training as a Warehouse, 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. The Detroit Improv Festival $5-$20. from the wilder parts of northern Michigan, artist April Wagner, owner of epiphany Kalamazoo Institute of Arts “Elliot designer allows her to visually understand Through Aug. 12. 269-857-2399. sc4a.org The Detroit Improv Collective, Inc. at while local legend Tucker Myers shares glass. Light refreshments will be served. Erwitt: Dog Dogs” This exhibition leaves an architect’s intention and to reveal it Go Comedy! Improv Theater, 261 E. sharp insights from his regular adventures Epiphany Glass Studio, 770 Orchard little question about Erwitt’s love of man’s in compositions that she constructs and Palin Bunch $5-20. What A Do Theatre, Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. Aug. 8 - 11. in Mexico. Ann Arbor Art Center, 117 W. Lake Road, Pontiac. 4 p.m. Aug. 2. 248- best friend. Erwitt proves that our close edits through her camera work. University 4071 W. Dickman Road, Springfield. Aug. DetroitImprovFestival.com Liberty St., Ann Arbor. July 27 - Sep. 2. 745-3786. Epiphanyglass.com relationship with dogs is due to mutual of Michigan Museum of Art, 525 S. State 9 - 18. 269-282-1953. WhatADo.org 734-995-8004. Annarborartcenter.org resemblance and emotion. Kalamazoo St, Ann Arbor. June 9 - Sep. 2. 734-647- Institute of Arts, 314 S. Park St., Kalamazoo. 0524. Umma.umich.edu www.PrideSource.com August 2, 2012 | BTL 29 Across 48 He plays one of the gay dads in 20 Not a single person Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child 19-Across 21 Root word 1 “Tearoom Trade” author Humphries Horoscopes 54 Staying power, in “Variety” 24 Part of a woody erection 5 Red-coated cheese 55 Encouraging words 25 Figure skater Sonja 9 ___ to the bottom (sank) 56 They’re tiny but attractive 26 In a queer way 13 K-12, educationally speaking Be discreet, Cancer! 58 “___ put hair on your chest!” 27 Seine feeder 14 His grandmother had a Woody 59 Tuna-and-cheese sandwich 28 Come together 15 Skin softener BY JACK FERTIG 60 “WKRP” actress Anderson 29 A. A. for children 16 Shakespeare’s Othello, for one 61 Eyelid ailment 30 Lesbian pulp author Arthur 17 Mark with a branding iron The sun in Leo aspecting Uranus and Pluto builds confidence, perhaps 62 Choose not to come 31 Homes for Nigel Finch and Hart Crane? 18 Love, to Amelie Mauresmo a bit too much. Sure you can do anything, but not on your own! 63 Genie portrayer Barbara 36 Tennessee from Mississippi 19 Upcoming sitcom about two gay dads 37 Stock phrase 22 Rank of H. Sanders ARIES (March 20 – April 19): Worries about your relationship, 38 Type of dysfunction 23 “ ___ on a Hot Tin Roof” or fears of never getting in one, are mostly groundless, but do say 43 Pain in the butt 24 Mapplethorpe work Down something about long-buried wounds or anxieties. Talking it out with 44 Frequently, to Shakespeare your partner or a close friend can be very illuminating. 27 Village People classic 1 The Eagle, to NASA 47 Ashen 32 Strung along 2 Loads TAURUS (April 20 – May 20): Whatever you do with your money 48 “I Love Rock ‘N Roll” singer Joan 33 Dr.’s org. 3 Oops! or flirtations will come to naught, but there’s nothing wrong with 49 Like America’s Betty 34 Suffix with ox 4 Joel Schumacher, for one feeling flirty and confident. “Wasting” time with pleasant company 50 No, to Nureyev 35 He plays one of the gay dads in 5 Stand next to O’Keeffe can make good practice to shore you up for real investments of your 51 “Ed Wood” role 19-Across 6 Barrymore of “Boys on the Side” treasure or time. 52 Parka feature 39 It means nothing 7 “Six Feet Under” creator Ball GEMINI (May 21- June 20): Humility is your big issue now. 53 Hathaway of “Brokeback Mountain” 40 Senatorial seat holders, e.g. 8 Casablanca citizen Whether you are too cocky or too shy you need to get back to knowing 54 Lily for Colette 41 “Ready ___, here I come!” 9 Start to like that in the grand scheme you are anyone’s equal – no more or less. 42 Openings for a peeping Tom 57 It may be original 10 “A Streetcar Named Desire” CANCER (June 21- July 22): Be discreet and strategic. That doesn’t 45 Pounding parts director Kazan mean “be shy.” Know what you’re worth, but keep your cards close to 46 C.I.O.ís partner 11 Witty Coward Solution on pg 32 your chest. Trust your instincts, be adaptable and know whom you can 47 D.C. lobby group 12 X, sometimes depend on. Even with all that, hard work counts for more than politics. LEO (July 23 – August 22): Trying to smooth over differences only causes problems to fester. Deal with it now. Solutions require original thinking, and you probably will make mistakes, but better to do that and correct them than not to try. VIRGO (August 23 – September 22): You might get to act out some long-hidden desires. Revealing that secret side can cause doubts, especially if word gets out. Hold your head high, dismiss lurid rumors as trashy gossip and let them wonder. The mystique will do you good. LIBRA (September 23 – October 22): However you need to revise plans, stay focused on your goal and clear on your limits. Promising too much can ruin everything. Talk up what you realistically can do; that’s quite enough. SCORPIO (October 23 – November 21): Let people know what you can do that will really make a difference. You may need to work on getting it across diplomatically. Think carefully before speaking, but it’s better to risk offending than to say nothing and let opportunity pass you by. Say hello to Annie! SAGITTARIUS (November 22 – December 20): A new adventure will liven up your partnership, or help you build or find one. Be his 6-year-old shorthaired cat has been with us at the Michigan Humane daring and bold. It doesn’t have to be expensive. For some people Society for nearly three months and is waiting patiently for the forever roller skating or karaoke are daring and bold. What would get your T pulse racing? home she deserves. Laid back and friendly, Annie loves people and curling up in your lap for a quick snooze. Is this the lap kitty you’re looking for? Come CAPRICORN (December 21 – January 19): You could be the center of domestic disturbances, a force of change in the community, and/ meet her today! The adoption fee includes microchipping, sterilization, age- or a dynamo in the bedroom. Any one of these can support another. appropriate vaccinations, the MHS adoption guarantee and so much more! Thinking of others first will help to keep it all clean and positive. AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 18): You need to get a grasp For more information, please visit or of deep worries that are affecting your relationship. Talking with call the MHS Off-Site Adoption Center at your partner is generally better than talking about your partner, but Roseville PetSmart at (734) 721-7300 ext. find a sympathetic and trustworthy ear where you can. 450 and provide the pet ID number, 715821. PISCES (February 19 – March 19): Confusion at work can stir Photo by Heidi Waeschle-Gabel. a greater range of anxieties. Take a break and think through the problem at hand. It will get crazier before you can solve it, but control the damage and don’t let it undermine other parts of your life.

Jack Fertig, a professional astrologer since 1977, is available for personal and business consultations in person in San Francisco, or online everywhere. He can be reached at 415-864-8302, through his website at www.starjack.com, and by email at [email protected].

30 BTL | August 2, 2012 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com August 2, 2012 | BTL 31 COLOR

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32 BTL | August 2, 2012 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com August 2, 2012 | BTL 33 COLOR

Cocktail Chatter A Lesson for You: Grasshopper

BY ED SIKOV

The grasshopper is a delicious dessert cocktail, but I rarely make them because of their repulsive name. I just can’t stand the idea of drinking insects. Is that so difficult to understand? Why the inventor, some now-unknown master mixer but terrible namer in the French Quarter of New Orleans, probably in the early 1950s, felt compelled to dub his rich, creamy, minty milkshake of a drink after an overly excitable leapy- crawler – featured as one of the plagues recommended three also enhanced the fat and visited on Egypt in the Lord’s surprisingly cholesterol reverie. belabored attempts to free the Jews from slavery I suppose I should have listened to Dan and – is quite beyond me. let him make a fruit salad, a lighter ending to Given its already nauseating name, I kept the meal than the Grasshoppers I had a craving the cocktail du weekend a secret from the for. Dan makes an excellent fruit salad – any housemates this time around. (Cocktail Chatter fresh, ripe fruit cut up mixed with whole regulars will recall that I spoiled my own blueberries and raspberries and tossed with a presentation of the delightful Brandy Alexander little Triple Sec – but it was after the Fourth one year by claiming I was instead going to serve of July at Fire Island Pines and I was getting a Boogers, the contents of which are guaranteed to little irritated at the endless parade of flawless make even the most gut-hardened drinkers spew; chiseled abs and decided to make sure than no this time, no jokes.) one in our house could possible have them. I started the meal with a yellow tomato We practically had to hold Robbie down in gazpacho, which turned out to be surprisingly the chair, pinch his nose closed and pour the unlike the typical throw-everything-in-the- drink into him, but even he drank his full share blender messes that we’re all used to. For one and admitted that his perfectly tight stomach thing, there was no bread to thicken it; second, could stand a little cuddly layer of fat as long the color was quite a spectacularly bright as the cause was a delicious – I can barely type yellow, what with the yellow tomatoes and it – Grasshopper. the inspired addition of a little bit of no-pulp orange juice. Robbie flew off into a disgusting tangent about what the color reminded him of, The Grasshopper but the adults at the table ignored him, with the 1 part green crème de menthe exception of Craig, Chipper, Sal, Sean, Kyle, 1 part white crème de cocoa and Dan. (Yes, readers – I was the only adult 1 part heavy cream at the table.) We moved on to a heavier main course: Mix ingredients together with ice in a shaker, linguini carbonara, made in part from the bacon shake and serve in a cocktail glass. In addition to grease I’d saved from last Sunday’s breakfast. white crème to cocoa, there is also dark crème de OK, not so good for you. But delicious! Those cocoa. Beware: It will really screw up the color two extra egg yolks I added to the recipe’s of your grasshopper.

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