Michigan Lawmakers Hear from Community

GLENN CLOSE ON GENDER-BENDING ‘ALBERT NOBBS’

CATCHING UP WITH COMIC LEGEND JOAN RIVERS

TROY MAYOR CAUSES ANOTHER GAY CONTROVERSY ‘GAY FAMILIES MATTER’

MICHIGAN LAWMAKERS HEAR FROM COMMUNITY

PRIDESOURCE.COM JAN. 26, 2012 | VOL. 2004 | FREE 2 BTL \ January 26, 2012 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com January 26, 2012 / BTL 3 1.26.2012

Cover Story 9 | Parting Glances My rainbow visitor 4 | Lawmakers hear ‘Gay families matter’ Michiganders protest anti-LGBT legislation 10 | Creep of the Week passed and proposed by their state lawmakers, Patrick Wooden Gov. Snyder smiled and waved Photo: Affirmations Life News 13 | Glenn, close up 5 | Troy mayor causes another gay controversy Actress talks gender-bending role in “Albert Nobbs,” unexpected bisexual turn and the GSA plans “major event” to help all involved possibility of going lesbian – in real life 5 | Four Michigan mayors sign onto marriage 14 | Graffiti fix equality Graffiti6 frontman Jamie Scott talks “amazing” gay following 7 | King of non-profit turn-around takes on Brooks Patterson 16 | Joan Rivers takes off the face Comedian on “gay humor” and 9 | ACLU: Michigan domestic partners can’t reality show’s second season wait Injunction sought to stop enforcement 19 | Stagecrafters gambles with serious, moving musical 9 | College gets $23 million for social justice “Kiss of the Spider Woman: The Musical” explores love, longing and liberation 10 | Holland is Ready recognized 20 | Happenings 11 | GOP candidates head to Florida, none Featured: Gallery Project’s American support equal rights Dream through March 4 in Ann Arbor

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Chat on our FB Fan Page. Search FIND THESE STORIES ONLINE “Between The Lines Newspaper” Images from Perceptions’ Open House Fundraiser Get breaking news updates. Video footage of “Gay Families Matter” rally Follow us @YourBTL Book Marks: “Double Life” and more Receive our E–Digest – just sign up today online 4 BTL \ January 26, 2012\ Michigan News www.PrideSource.com Lawmakers hear ‘Gay families matter’ Michiganders protest anti-LGBT legislation passed and proposed by their state lawmakers, Gov. Snyder smiled and waved

BY TODD HEYWOOD they hate they have.” Agema has been hostile not only to the More than 150 people from across Michigan LGBT community, but also to undocumented had a message for Gov. Rick Snyder and the state residents. Last fall he spoke at a rally featuring legislature Wednesday: “Gay families matter.” an alleged former terrorist. Agema has The was the message they hoped their state introduced legislation that requires employers lawmakers would hear and act on after a year and contractors to use the federal E-Verify that saw the most anti-gay legislative action in system, which immigration activists say is Michigan history. riddled with problems. He has also introduced The rally was organized by a coalition legislation modeled after Arizona’s controversial of LGBT community centers from across the immigration law. state. People from centers in Ann Arbor, Benton The state legislature currently has three Harbor, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Saginaw and pieces of legislation targeting the LGBT Detroit were present at the event. community, according to a press release from “We are homeowners. We’re taxpayers and Equality Michigan. we’re residents of the state of Michigan,” Curtis First is HB 5039, introduced by Rep. Tom Lipscomb, executive director of the group KICK, McMillin (R-Rochester Hills). If passed, this told the crowd. “We deserve the same rights as law would force local communities that have heterosexual families.” passed inclusive local human rights ordinances Zachary Bauer, executive director of on discrimination to strip those laws down the Kalamazoo Gay and Lesbian Resource to the state’s less inclusive law. It would also Center, said lawmakers are trying to undermine prohibit local communities from adding any other democracy. protected category not included in the state law. “They took away your voice,” he said. Second is SB 518, introduced by Sen. Tupac “They took away your vote.” Hunter (D-Detroit). This legislation would force David Garcia, executive director of counseling and psychology programs at state Affirmations, the LGBT community center in universities from discriminating against any Ferndale, blasted sponsors of anti-gay legislation student who objects to counseling LGBT students as “moral hypocrites.” because of moral convictions. This law would “Anytime that someone works to deny the supersede the codes of professional conduct to rights of group - rights that they enjoy - they are which these university programs adhere. In an a moral hypocrite,” Garcia said. “The gay agenda earler interview the Michigan Messenger, Hunter is not so tough. I can sum it up in two points. One, said he would not support a white nationalist equality. Two, see number one.” using his or her sincerely held religious beliefs But Garcia also pleaded for heterosexuals to discriminate against a person of color, even who support equality for the LGBT community though the legislation would in fact allow that to “come out of the closet.” to happen. “The straight community must get off the Third is HB 4889, introduced by Rep. Tom sidelines and act,” he said. Hooker (R-Byron Center). This legislation would State Rep. Sean McCann (D-Kalamazoo) prohibit medically necessary sex reassignment stopped by the rally. surgery for people in some state programs, “To take these rights away is a great step including prisons. Gender reassignment surgery backwards, I think,” he told the crowd. “We are is not an option in the Michigan Department of together and we are mighty.” Corrections. Meanwhile, Gov. Snyder, who is under Not mentioned in the Equality Michigan growing pressure and criticism from the LGBT release was new legislation introduced by Protestors angry with attacks on LGBT citizens, gathered in Lansing Jan. 18 to let legislators know how angry they Agema, a former pilot, which would eliminate community, did not make an appearance, at least are chanting “Gay families matter” as legislators arrived for the State of the State. Photos courtesy of Affirmations not intentionally. the state’s Healthy Michigan Fund Initiative. As the rally was getting under way, Snyder concerns for the state’s budget. State Rep. Dave Agema (R-Grandville) - who The fund provides the state’s matching dollars exited the state Capitol. He was greeted by boos On Tuesday, The American Independent sponsored the legislation denying partner benefits for HIV prevention and care dollars, and without and chants of “Gay families matter!” He smiled reported that Snyder’s office has repeatedly - exited the building. He too was greeted with it, the state would be unable to receive federal and waived at the crowd; a Michigan State Police denied requests for an interview about LGBT boos and “Gay families matters!” Protesters cash for HIV care. Agema’s bill would move the security escort stood between the governor and issues in the state. Interview requests have followed Agema a block down Michigan Avenue funding to airport care. the protesters. similarly been denied to TAI media partners from the Capitol, chanting and waving signs. Snyder has come under fire for signing Between The Lines Newspapers and Lansing Later, Agema posted the following on his legislation that prohibits public employers from Online News. Communications officials from Facebook page, “It was an interesting day today. offering health benefits to the unmarried partners the governor’s office have yet to provide possible When I left the Capitol I was swarmed with gay View the Online Gallery of public employees. Snyder claims he made dates for such an interview. men screaming hate at me for the elimination of the decision to sign the bill based on economic Shortly after Snyder passed the rally, same sex/unmarried benefits. It seems the hate www.pridesource.com www.PrideSource.com Michigan News / January 26, 2012 / BTL 5 Troy mayor causes yet

Mayors John Hieftje of Ann Arbor, George Heartwell of Grand Rapids, Karen Majewski of Hamtramck and Bobby Hopewell of Kalamazoo have signed on to another gay controversy marriage equality. GSA plans ‘major event’ to help all involved Four Michigan mayors sign on to BY KATE OPALEWSKI in keeping with her policy of full disclosure, anytime,” said Mayor of Ferndale Dave Coulter. I’d like to bring the underlying issue to light,” In response to Mayor Daniels comments marriage equality TROY – Mayor of Troy Janice Daniels said Curtis. that she is the victim, suffering from bullying is under scrutiny once more for making more and disrespect, Coulter said, “It is not a fair anti-gay statements. This time, her words have comparison with the type of bullying that takes National campaign launches been recorded on tape, but Mayor Daniels has Elected officials want tape place in schools. When in a political job like refused to release the tape for the public to hear. According to Troy City Councilmen Dane ours, a person expressing their displeasure with Mayor Daniels’ anti-gay statements were Slater and Jim Campbell the Mayor should you comes with the territory and is fair game. at U.S. Conference of Mayors recorded by herself when she invited members produce the tape if she has nothing to hide and You have to have thick skin. There is nothing of the Troy High School Gay-Straight Alliance let the public hear the truth and decide what unfair about the way the students are reacting.” BY SUSAN HOROWITZ to the Troy Community Center on Jan. 9. The they believe. And it’s not just GSA members and purpose of this particular meeting was to try and supporters who are anti-Mayor Daniels. On the Troy Mayor Pro-tem and Councilwoman Freedom to Marry, a national organization reach an understanding following last month’s “I Want Troy Mayor Janice Daniels to Resign” Maureen McGinnis briefly commented on the founded in 2003 to win marriage nationwide, controversy when Mayor Daniels made use Facebook page, there are 222 likes, including challenge faced by council members during officially announced a new initiative Friday – of the word “queer” in an anti-gay marriage the big thumbs up from the City of Troy, the this time. Mayors for the Freedom to Marry. The effort Facebook post. The meeting was also supposed Troy Public Library, Troy Parks and Recreation, “Whatever comments were made to the includes a bipartisan coaliton with over 75 to allow for Mayor Daniels to hold up her end the Troy Police Department, and the Troy students that attended, (it) did not seem to do mayors pledging to support marriage for gay of an agreement previously made with GSA Community Coalition. anything to mend the pain that her Facebook and lesbian couples. The announcement came members to organize an anti-bullying awareness Oakland County Commissioner and former post caused them, and many others in our at the 80th annual U.S. Conference of Mayors event. in Washington, D.C. Things did not go as planned. According The initial list includes cities large and to Skye Curtis, GSA co-founder and Troy “Whatever comments were made to the students that attended, small, with four of those located in Michigan. High School senior, Mayor Daniels told They inlcude Mayors John Hieftje of Ann students she wanted to invite to an event, “a (it) did not seem to do anything to mend the pain that her Arbor, George Heartwell of Grand Rapids, panel of psychologists who would testify that Bobby Hopewell of Kalamazoo and Karen homosexuality is a mental disease.” (Mayor Daniels) Facebook post caused them, and many others in Majewski of Hamtramck. By 1975, homosexuality was declassified our community, and for that reason, the continuing controversy “We’re launching this effort at a time as a mental disorder by both the American when more Americans than ever support the Psychiatric Association and the American has made it difficult for council to deal with policy and financial freedom to marry. When New York ended its Psychological Association Council of exclusion of gay couples from marriage this Representatives. decisions that we are tasked with making as council members.” summer, the number of people living in states “This statement garnered an immediate, that treat all committed couples equally more visceral reaction from everyone in the room, and than doubled – from 16 million to 35 million in the ensuing chaos, I didn’t ask for clarification - Troy Mayor Pro-tem and Councilwoman Maureen McGinnis Americans. Marriage is on the march in towns about the statement’s actual wording, and posted and cities across the nation and these mayors a Facebook status when I got home reflecting will play an important role in advancing the what I’d understood,” said Curtis in a recent cause,” said Marc Solomon, the national blog with the Troy Patch online. community, and for that reason, the continuing gay mayor of Ferndale, Craig Covey, shared his campaign director. In a Detroit Free Press article, Mayor controversy has made it difficult for council to opinion of Mayor Daniels on the page as wll. San Diego’s Republican Mayor Jerry Daniels denied making that comment and deal with policy and financial decisions that we “She won’t resign, but she could be Sanders, a chair of Mayors for the Freedom clarified her statement. “What I said was, there’s are tasked with making as council members. I recalled. She is not a good fit especially for a to Marry, explained why he has signed on to a higher incidence of (overall) disease in the am very proud of the diversity we have achieved business/corporate town like Troy. And the city the effort. “Allowing loving and committed homosexual community,” said Mayor Daniels. in the city of Troy and hope that we continue to is very diverse. Can’t believe she sneaked into couples to join in marriage has benefits not “I’m very sorry that this instantly went be recognized in this way. I do not think that the office. This is what happens when less than one just for couples and their families – but also viral before I checked the actual wording of Mayor’s personal opinions should represent us in five voters vote,” said Covey. for society. Marriage encourages people to the Mayor’s statement. In case you all were as a community or a city council and am hopeful As for the GSA members, they have take responsibility for each other, provides wondering what the Mayor honestly did say, I’ve that the Mayor recognizes this as well so that we made the decision to move on without Mayor greater security for children, and helps our been informed that she in fact told us that the can continue to move forward as a community,” Daniels’ participation. GSA member and country live up to its promises set forth in psychiatrists would testify that the homosexual said McGinnis. Troy High School senior Zach Kilgore posted our founding documents. These are important lifestyle is dangerous. Even though she may not “I don’t have advice regarding the tape or an open letter to the press and public on the values for a strong society, and we should have used the exact term ‘mental disease,’ I’m whether or not she owes people a copy of the local political blog “Keep Troy Strong.” encourage them.” still pretty disturbed by her words, especially tape, but she does owe the citizens of Troy a He introduced the group CARE: The Troy To view a full list of mayors click on to in light of last month’s events. While I take full and honest explanation of what her thoughts Diversity Coalition an acronym that stands for freedomtomarry.org. The campaign will be responsibility for my status, and am very hopeful and her beliefs are about the LGBT community Celebrate, Accept, Respect, and Empathize. working to grow this list in the coming year. that the Mayor will soon release the audio and what the issue is. If she wanted advice from Mayors can sign-up anytime online. recording she made of our meeting to the public me about that, I’d be happy to meet with her See Troy mayor, page 10 6 BTL \ January 26, 2012\ Opinion www.PrideSource.com Viewpoint Vol. 2004 • Issue 748 Jan. 26, 2012 PUBLISHERS On the road again Susan Horowitz & Jan Stevenson BY ROLAND LEGGIT EDITORIAL reflecting on the answers that the community new faces. Organizers in cities like Mt. Pleasant Editor in Chief can hardly believe has given us. It’s clear to me that this next year and Holland are working hard to pass their Susan Horowitz must be about the residents of Michigan finding own non-discrimination ordinances and I look [email protected] that it’s already 2012. It seems that the answers to these challenges ourselves. forward to joining their efforts. Families from Rather than hoping for the best from across the state are demanding that the unfair Entertainment Editor Ijust the other day I was our elected officials, it’s up to us to make and harmful domestic partner health care ban Chris Azzopardi standing on the stage at Motor City Pride on a [email protected] beautiful afternoon in June. Arts & Theater Editor While summer may be the season for fun Donald V. Calamia, in the sun, winter affords us the opportunity to While Gov. Rick Snyder and conservatives in the legislature were [email protected] hunker down and get to work. The beginning of working to eliminate heath care coverage for domestic partners, Calendar Editor the year is often a great time for planning, and Benjamin Jenkins here at Equality Michigan that is exactly what the residents of Traverse City were rallying to keep the non- [email protected] we’re doing. As I write this I’m up to my elbows in annual strategic planning. As many of you discrimination ordinance that the city had passed the year before. CREATIVE know, proper planning requires you to examine what it takes to accomplish specific goals. This While the anti-gay American Family Association was trying to block a Art Director year my planning sessions are a little different robust anti-bullying law, students from across the state were going David Ano, [email protected] than in the past. I’ve started my planning process Webmaster & MIS Director with a bit of nostalgia. After all, it was around to Lansing to demand safe schools. Kevin Bryant, [email protected] this time last year that we were asking ourselves Contributing Writers a few very important questions. What does 2011 Charles Alexander, Michelle E. Brown, have in store for our community? How will the Zach Childree, Jack Fertig, Lisa Keen, new legislature and governor respond to the our voices heard at the ballot box. Instead of that Governor Snyder signed be struck down. Jeremy Martin, Anthony Paull, Andrea Poteet, complex challenges that our state faces? waiting for Washington or Lansing to pass pro- All of this is just the beginning. I believe Crystal Proxmire, Bob Roehr, Many of us were very disappointed by equality legislation, we need to demand that the that 2012 can be a year of tremendous strides Hannah Schwab, Jody Valley, communities that we call home are welcoming forward here in Michigan. However, it will be D’Anne Witkowski, Rex Wockner, Dan Woog the way in which our governor and legislature decided to answer those questions this past year. places to live and do business. the residents of the state, not our legislature, who Cartoonists However, there were resounding pro-equality The non-discrimination ordinances that will be leading the charge. Paul Berg, Dave Brousseau, Joan Hilty advocates here in the state that perhaps we didn’t have passed across the state are strong evidence Contributing Photographers account enough for: the residents of Michigan! that Michigan can be a welcoming community. Roland Leggett is the Director of Field Organizing Andrew Potter While we were focused on the happenings So it’s with the answers that you and others in at Equality Michigan, which works to achieve full ADVERTISING & SALES in Lansing throughout the year, I also had the the community have given that I find myself on privilege of meeting some of the great leaders the road again. I’ll be travelling even more this equality. Find out more at www.equalitymi.org. Director of Sales working all around the state. year and I can’t wait so see old friends and some Jan Stevenson, [email protected] While Gov. Rick Snyder and Sales Representatives conservatives in the legislature Ed Bohach, [email protected] were working to eliminate heath Ann Cox, [email protected] care coverage for domestic National Advertising Representative partners, the residents of Traverse Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 City were rallying to keep the non- discrimination ordinance that the Business Office city had passed the year before. Diane Smith, [email protected] Nancy Blankenship While the anti-gay American Family Association was trying to Circulation & Distribution block a robust anti-bullying law, Diane Smith students from across the state Pride Source Media Group were going to Lansing to demand 11920 Farmington Road safe schools. The year ended with Livonia, Michigan 48150 a roar as the residents of Troy Phone 734.293.7200 • Fax 734.293.7201 demanded that their mayor respect www.pridesource.com Our rate cards are available online all residents, not just those that she agrees with. All material appearing in Between The Lines is protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without While 2011 began with a lot the permission of the publishers. Between The Lines is supported of questions about how elected by many fine advertisers, but we cannot accept responsibility for officials would respond to the claims made by our advertisers, nor can we accept responsibility needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, for materials provided by advertisers or their agents. and transgender people, it was Copyright 2011 Pride Source Media Group, LLC the residents of Michigan who answered the call to action. Now I find myself at the very beginning of 2012 both remembering the questions I had last year and www.PrideSource.com Opinion / January 26, 2012 / BTL 7 King of nonprofit turn-around takes on Brooks Patterson BY CRYSTAL PROXMIRE towards diversification and efficiency just as the market was on the verge of change. “Talk ROYAL OAK – Between The Lines readers about a business that was affected by outside will recognize Kevin Howley as the energetic circumstances,” he said. “Times changed and whiz Interim Executive Director of Affirmations, people just weren’t using envelopes as much as Ruth Ellis Center and Friends Schools of Detroit they used to be. We were able to spot that trend when those organizations needed transitional coming and to prepare the company for it so they leadership. But he’s also a seasoned private could run more efficiently and focus on growth sector business administrator who, among other by capturing market share, minimize losses and successes, was the second-in-command of the remain viable.” largest envelope producer He left the private in the world. But one thing sector in 2003 when his son that Kevin Howley is not, is Langston was four. He and a politician his partner Jason are now Yet at 52 years old, fathers of two; thirteen-year- he is jumping in with both old Langston, and Lily who feet and executing a full– is almost six. “I was traveling time campaign against the a lot for work and I thought man who has been running that my family was more Oakland County for the past important. I also wanted to do 20 years. L. Brooks Patterson the kind of work I was doing was about Howley’s age in a way that had more impact when he gave up being in helping people.” Oakland County Prosecutor Howley has consulted to run for the top Oakland for, or come on board with, County Executive job two over a dozen nonprofits in decades ago, and Howley Kevin Howley the past eight years including thinks it’s time for a change. Affirmations, Ruth Ellis “What really struck me was this matter of Center, Friends School of Detroit, Prevention redistricting,” he said referring to PA 280 which, Point Philadelphia and Centro Nuevo Creacion unless it is overturned by the courts, will have in Philadelphia. For most projects he came Oakland County reduced from 25 districts to 21 on for a matter of months and gave the and gives the body as a whole authority to draw organizations a fresh look at their budgets and its own districts. “The redistricting situation other circumstances, while also giving them just floored me. We’ve gone through a process peace of mind that someone experienced was at that we have done for years. The court system the helm while they took the time to search for said the plan is fine, let’s move on. But instead longer-term leadership. Brooks (Patterson) decides he doesn’t like the Howley said that every situation is different, plan and they have a lobbyist that is paid for by and more complicated than can be explained in a the taxpayers up in Lansing lobbying for this quick talking point. Though, essentially, there are partisan bill for partisan purposes. This kind of three things he does when he assumes leadership partisan politics is appalling.” of an organization: Howley said the spirit of politics in general 1. Realign the organization’s operating is changing in Michigan and at the County budget to make sure expenses match revenues level. “Until recently we have had a reputation 2. Evaluate the organization’s ongoing for trying to encourage people to vote and for business model by program to address issues of working together. And out in the private sector, sustainability in the factories and on the job, you couldn’t 3. Strengthen the organization’s balance tell the difference between a Republican and sheet a Democrat. At the end of the day we are not These same principles can be applied to a partisan county. I don’t want politics. I want Oakland County to give a fresh look at where good government.” taxpayer’s money is being spent. “It’s easy Apart from the political impetus that to balance the budget, but how do you do motivated Howley to run for County Executive, it? That’s the question. Effectiveness is not being he believes he has what it takes to run Oakland evaluated. It’s not just about cutting programs, County with the same skills and tools he’s used but about making strategic investments that to help nonprofits and major corporations fortify work. Whatever we’ve been doing for 20 years themselves in times of transition. is not working. Maybe we need to look at things Before devoting himself to nonprofit like Automation Alley, and move beyond the management, he steered an envelope company automotive industry.” 8 BTL \ January 26, 2012\ Opinion www.PrideSource.com “On behalf of advocates for LGBT S/he Said youth everywhere, let me be the first to say ‘thank you.’ The importance of an accepting home cannot be LGBT youth and overstated. The damage that can be Readers respond: Another gay done by a hostile family also cannot teen, Phillip of Tennessee, commits Mayors for Freedom be overstated: LGBT youth whose COMPILED BY HOWARD ISRAEL families are hostile are eight times suicide over anti-gay bullying. likelier to commit suicide than their Eliza Byard straight peers. Hostile parents can’t make their gay kids straight, but they can make them dead. The bad news Not another; It’s so heartbreaking! What is wrong is that school can be a miserable place for LGBT youth. The with people? good news is that engaged parents can make a huge difference. –Linda Parr It’s admirable that you want your son to understand that you ‘don’t care about his sexuality,’ you also have to make your son understand that you care about him and that you’re aware of the challenges he faces.” Bless his heart. It’s so sad that Phillip felt that – Eliza Byard, executive director, GLSEN, Gay, Lesbian & suicide was his only option. Straight Education Network, responding to a question from the father of a 13-year-old son who came out to his parents –Cyndy McNew and has already made the news public at school, in Dan Savage’s advice column, www.thestranger.com, Jan. 17.

“My name is Caitlin, I’ve been Kids in the middle of Nowheresville need to stay wanting a more gender neutral name, in the closet. They read and hear that coming Riley is my top one. I’ve identified as out is a wonderful thing when in fact it can be an genderqueer for about three years now, invitation to hell on earth if there is no support before that I was ‘bisexual’, and before system for them. It’s irresponsible and dangerous that I was just fucking confused. I’ve to encourage these kids to come out. They’re pushed myself to explore if I might me getting mixed-messages. trans, and I am not. I love when people –Todd Erickson Lady Gaga openly need to clarify how I identify Caitlin not because they’re nice, but because “My daughter’s foundation was born out they’re honest to glob confused.” of her passion to create a better world –Caitlin, in a posting on “genderqueer – beyond the where people are kinder and nicer to one binaries” blog site, images of gender-bending, trans Parents: Do not count on school officials or another and are accepted for who they are, and queer people of all sorts, meant to empower and authorities to protect your children. If they are celebrate the beauty within all gender expressions, regardless of how different they may be. She http://genderqueer.tumblr.com, Jan. 21. being victimized without relief, take them out of has experienced many of the struggles that the damn school. You are the parent and you our youth encounter today, and identifies “It was nearly eight years ago that need to protect your kids. Stop at nothing to with the lasting effects they can have without my city was the first large city in the protect those you love. proper support. Together, we look forward to country to marry same-sex couples. –Jason Vorva creating a new movement that will engage Back then, it was a big deal. People and empower youth and accept them as were protesting everywhere, and we valuable members of our society. were the focus of international news. Well, eight years later, I’m here to tell –Cynthia Germanotta, Lady Gaga’s mother, in you that marriage for gay couples Why are we still putting up with this kind of shit? a press release titled “Lady Gaga to Officially has made my city of Boston a much Launch Born This Way Foundation at Harvard on –Toni Tripp Tom Menino better place.” February 29,” about the Born This Way Foundation (BTWF) that will explore the best ways to reach –Boston Mayor Tom Menino, in the youth and create a new culture of kindness, blog titled “Launch of Mayors for the Freedom to Marry,” bravery, acceptance and empowerment, and address about a new initiative titled Mayors for the Freedom to Marry, initiated by Freedom to Marry to demonstrate the issues like self-confidence, well-being, anti- wide, non-partisan support for marriage equality across Comments may be edited for grammar and length. bullying, mentoring and career development and the country, www.freedomtomarry.org, Jan. 20. Freedom Join the conversation ... advocacy, http://cyber.law.harvard.edu, Jan. 19. to Marry is the national organization working to expand public support for ending marriage discrimination. Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” www.PrideSource.com Michigan News / January 26, 2012 / BTL 9 ACLU: Michigan domestic Parting Glances partners can’t wait Injunction sought to stop enforcement

BY MARY ANNE MEYERS Michigan News Connection My rainbow visitor

DETROIT – When Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder signed the ban on public BY CHARLES ALEXANDER employee domestic partner benefits last month, the law took effect immediately ’ve lost three friends in three months. LaMarr Fields, Rev. and people started losing coverage. While Mark Bidwell, my Cass Tech High School classmate Gordon activists have been protesting in Lansing, Barnard. I Each lives inwardly as long as I will live; and at 75 that may the ACLU has sued. However, many people with serious be of short duration or, hopefully, until age 86 when my England- health issues say they can’t wait for the born grandmother on my mother’s side passed. (I tell myself year or so it may take for the issue to longevity is gifted through a grandmother’s gene. That precious make its way through the court. So, the bit of Anglo Saxon DNA, and my art and writing – among other ACLU plans to seek an injunction to things! – keeps me going.) stop enforcement of the law until a final It was a joy to know Dearborn theater director LaMarr, whom decision is made. I met at MCC-Detroit, and discovered we had friends in common Michigan ACLU attorney Jay Kaplan dating back to the mid-1950s. I knew Rev. Bidwell for 25 years. says he’s hopeful the law will be overturned ACLU LGBT Project Attorney Jay Kaplan addressing the press Jan. 4. BTL photo: Andrew Potter He was supportive and caring of me and my spiritual needs, as he because it singles out domestic partners was for so many, many others. while allowing all kinds of family members state will really save much money by whatever reason, may not want to marry, it Gordon got in touch with me ten years ago, calling BTL to to keep coverage. denying domestic partner benefits. forces them to do that. For LGBT people, reestablish a friendship that began when we were in our newly out “A brother, a sister, a cousin, an aunt, “We’re talking about three employees LGBT people can’t marry. So there’s no twenties. For these rekindled years we spoke daily without fail. an uncle, you know, a sixth cousin. The here, six employees there. It’s a very, very answer.” If only I had hugged him when I visited him in the hospital. If only people who can’t qualify under this small population.” State universities are exempt from the only. If only. Then. This e-mail I shared with BTL co-publishers criteria are same-sex partners.” Even though the law bans public law, but it does cover community colleges, Susan and Jan. Gov. Snyder has said he signed the employee benefits for any domestic public schools, cities and counties. “I had headaches and tensions late Monday afternoon and bill because the Civil Service Commission partner, Maxine Thome, executive director A U.S. Court of Appeals has struck evening. I wondered if I’d be able to get a good night’s sleep. But shouldn’t have added the benefits while of the Michigan chapter of the National down a similar law in Arizona. it proved a reasonably sound sleep, no tossing, no turning, no Michigan was in a financial crisis. Association of Social Workers, sees it as Editor’s note: The Ann Arbor City getting up to go to the bathroom, waking at 6:15 a.m. Kaplan says it could be costly to discriminating against homosexual couples Council voted unanimously Jan. 23 in “I decided it was too early to face a gloomy day, so I defend the law in court. because in Michigan they can’t legally favor of a resolution directing the city cushioned myself between my two pillows as I ususally do to However, he says, he’s not sure the marry to get insurance for their partners. administrator and city attorney to assist drown out distracting sounds outside, again fell asleep, and this “Heterosexual couples that, for the ACLU in the lawsuit. scenario took place in dream land: “I found myself in another city. It was pleasant, warm. Sunny. I wandered comfortably there. Eventually I stopped in what may have been a gay club or gathering place and observed, College gets $23 million for social justice seeing someone there whom I found attractive, and I thought had noticed me. KALAMAZOO – Kalamazoo College and the Arcus Center.” founded the Arcus Foundation in 2000. “Continuing my looking around I caught a glimpse of College has received a $23 million grant The mission of the Arcus Center for “Our intent in making this grant is someone I did know – happy to see a familiar face – and made my to endow the work of its Arcus Center for Social Justice Leadership is to support the to foster diverse leaders who advance way through the crowd to him. It was Gordon! He looked years Social Justice Leadership. The grant, made pursuit of human rights and social justice social justice in all its dimensions – and years younger. Mid-thirties. Instant bonding once more. He by the Arcus Foundation, will support by developing emerging leaders and from anti-racism to economic justice was with someone I didn’t know, but I got the impression they a broad array of activities including; sustaining existing leaders in the field of to equality for all sexual orientations were together. student scholarships and two endowed human rights and social justice, creating and gender identities. We envision ‘K’ “Gordon’s outfit was different, but it was impeccable, stylish, professorships, student internships and a pivotal role for liberal arts education in College becoming the place to be for the kind of attire he so often took pride in wearing. His old self. leadership development programming, engendering a more just world. young people who aspire to develop the We were happy to see each other. Like old times. Smiling. His faculty and staff fellowships, public The Arcus Foundation grant is the strategies and lead the work that will old campy self. As though he had not died at all. Just relocated. lectures and conferences, local and global largest grant in the College’s 179-year make our world more just and humane. In good health. No frailty. No pain. The life of the party. Still a partnerships, and residencies for social history, and one of the largest given for a This ambition maps directly to the Hollywood legend in his own mind. justice scholars and practitioners. social justice purpose to an undergraduate values shared by the Foundation and “For a few days now, Susan and Jan, I’ve been wanting to “The breadth of the grant makes it institution in the United States. the College.” send you this short poem by Emily Dickinson that I long ago exceptional,” said Kalamazoo College “I know from my own experience The Arcus Foundation is a leading committed to memory: President Eileen Wilson-Oyelaran. “The the emphasis that ‘K’ College places global foundation advancing social “Our share in night to bear/ Our share in morning/ Our blank entire Kalamazoo College community on developing global citizens who can justice and conservation issues. in bliss to fill/ Our blank in scorning/ Here a star. There a star./ is extremely grateful to the Arcus be effective agents of transformational Specifically, Arcus works to advance Some lose their way/ Here a mist. There a mist./ Afterwards day.” Foundation and its founder, Jon Stryker, change,” said Jon Stryker, a Kalamazoo LGBT equality, as well as to conserve and [email protected] for their belief in the mission of the College alumnus and trustee, who protect the great apes. 10 BTL \ January 26, 2012\ Michigan News www.PrideSource.com Creep of the Week Patrick Wooden

BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI sew up their bodies if you will, and how many of the men don’t oly shit. And I mean even give these stitches time to that literally. Because heal before they are back out Patrick Wooden there practicing that wicked His both a pastor and a man behavior,” he continued. “Some whose imagination is wildly are bleeders, men who are not scatological, at least when it turned off by ingesting the feces comes to of other men.” the gays. Woah. Where to even start? First of all, the claim that anal sex will bring about the extinction of the human race is a little hyperbolic. Just a tad. I mean, if somehow people all over the world, gay and straight and everything in between, stopped any other form of sex then, sure, that might be an issue. But to even Patrick suggest that is going to happen Wooden takes a really big leap of faith and imagination. Then again, Wooden is a North Carolina I think it’s pretty clear that pastor and an outspoken, to Wooden’s imagination is very, say the least, critic of LGBT well, active. “Bleeders” eating rights. The American Family poo? Dude. Association, National I also really think that Organization for Marriage, and the key words in Wooden’s the Family Research Council comments are “my belief.” It all consider Wooden a good pal. is his belief that the medical In an interview with anti- Holland is Ready recognized community should “step gay chattering heads Peter forward” and “share” this anal LaBarbera and HOLLAND - Holland is Ready, the group that though they were unsuccessful in getting the ordinance Matt Barber on sought to have an inclusive civil rights ordinance passed passed. “We might in fact be the only group ever – who in their Americans First of all, the claim that last year, was the recipient of the City of Holland Social one sixth-month time period were first denied the rights for Truth Hour Justice Award presented at the Jan. 15 meeting of the city we requested and were then celebrated by the City for our radio show, anal sex will bring about the council. Accepting the award was Rev. Jennifer Adams, efforts in seeking those rights,” she said. Wooden made who said it was ironic that they received this award even clear that he extinction of the human race is thinks gays are a little hyperbolic. Just a tad. basically full of it. ® Troy mayor “The God Continued from p. 5 of the Bible made the human sperm, the fiction with America. As if God of the Bible designed there’s some huge underground With more than 30 members so it and it was not designed to anus operation cabal no one is far, the group in collaboration with be emptied into an area that talking about. local filmmaker and youth mentor is filled with feces, there is And speaking of truth, Amy Weber, will host what Kilgore nothing for it to germinate with, Wooden had more to spew: “If calls a “major multimedia event” it will most certainly mean the the truth was told, people would featuring video presentations, extinction of the human race,” literally gag and no one would live music, and guest speakers Wooden said. want to be in a lifestyle like that. that will celebrate peace, respect, Hope you weren’t eating Who wants to practice anything and love. “The event will be non- when you read that. But don’t that is going to ultimately lead political, and it will focus solely on worry. It gets worse. a grown man to about the time helping parties in the community “My belief is that if the he’s in his 40s or 50s, or what reach a mutual understanding. medical community would just not, having to wear a diaper or We will change this unfortunate, step forward and just would a butt plug just to be able to negative episode into a positive share with the American people contain their bowels?” campaign that promotes unity and what happens to the male anus, Wow, how do you even respect amongst the city of Troy the problems that homosexuals respond to that? I mean, and the surrounding region. More have with their rectums, the besides having gay men with information will be released soon,” damage that is done, the healthy butts send photographic said Kilgore. evidence to Wooden. Troy residents Jeff Williams and Kristen Douglas protesting Mayor Daniels on Dec. 5. BTL photo: operations that are needed to Andrew Potter www.PrideSource.com News / January 26, 2012 / BTL 11 Lesbian couple GOP candidates head to Florida, files legal none support equal rights challenge of state adoption law BY LISA KEEN HAZEL PARK – Committed parents April Three different contests, three different DeBoer and Jayne Rowse, of Oakland County, winners, and none of the remaining four major filed a federal lawsuit Jan. 23 to overturn the candidates for the Republican presidential state’s practice of preventing unmarried couples nomination has a record of supporting equal from jointly adopting children. rights for gays. The women are state-certified foster parents But the candidate who described laws who are trying to jointly adopt three newborns banning sexual orientation discrimination as that they began raising two years ago. They filed “religious bigotry” - Newt Gingrich - won the suit in U.S. District Court in Detroit. Attorney Saturday’s South Carolina primary. Now, he General Bill Schuette and Gov. Rick Snyder were must slug it out in Florida against Iowa caucus named as defendants because of their offices. winner Rick Santorum and New Hampshire Michigan does not allow unmarried couples primary winner Mitt Romney. to adopt together, and since same-sex couples Gingrich won 40 percent of the vote in South cannot marry in Michigan, they therefore cannot Carolina’s primary, a primary in which 65 percent adopt as a couple. They can adopt, but only as of voters identified themselves as evangelicals or single parents. DeBoer adopted their daughter; born-again Christians. Romney took second place Rowse adopted their two sons. Rowse’s two boys, with 28 percent of the vote, followed by Santorum ages 2 and 3, were abandoned by their mothers. Republican candidates Newt Gingrich and Mitt Romney at the Jan. 23 CNN debate. with 17 percent, Ron Paul with 13 percent. Two DeBoer adopted a 23-month-old girl who was percent went to other candidates. surrendered by her biological mother. DeBoer, In his victory speech Saturday night, publicized accusation that Gingrich had asked delegates, Santorum has 12, Ron Paul has 3, a neonatal intensive care nurse, and Rowse, an Gingrich hammered home his contention that her to either agree to let him have a mistress or and Jon Huntsman (who pulled out of the race emergency room nurse, have been in a committed “elites” and activist judges are threatening a divorce. While a highly conservative audience Monday) has 2. relationship for 10 years, the suit said. America with “religious bigotry.” He belittled might normally be expected to scrutinize an Gingrich has already been campaigning in “Children are at risk when two loving parents President Obama’s opposition to a pipeline allegation that a thrice-married candidate may Florida, which holds its primary Jan. 31 and 50 are prevented from jointly adopting them,” said through the mid-section of the U.S. as “taking not respect the “sanctity” of marriage, it, instead, delegates to offer. While in Miami campaigning Emily Dievendorf, director of policy at Equality care of his extremist, left-wing friends in San seemed to embrace Gingrich’s attack against the this month, Gingrich claimed that Romney Michigan. “Michigan has had ample time to Francisco.” “media elite.” appointed the judges who delivered the decision commit to caring for our state’s children in the Many political analysts are attributing LGBT voters were likely more interested that led to same-sex couples obtaining marriage way that psychologists and social workers have Gingrich’s success in South Carolina to in examining the allegation against Gingrich licenses in Massachusetts. Romney did not. always promoted - by ensuring that kids have his pugilistic performance in debates, his because Gingrich has been opposed to marriages Three of the four justices who voted with the two loving parents who have the resources to best having served as a member of Congress from of same-sex couples. He told a debate audience majority in that decision were appointed by support their family.” neighboring Georgia, and the fact that Romney in New Hampshire Jan. 8 that he did not support other Republican governors; the fourth justice The suit states there are major benefits for has been stubbornly reluctant to release his allowing same-sex couples to marry because it was a Democratic appointee. children to have two legal parents rather than tax returns to the public for scrutiny. And was “a huge jump from being understanding and It’s not clear how big an issue same-sex one, including the right to have a parent if the exit polling has shown that 65 percent of considerate” of the pains of discrimination against marriage, adoption, or other civil rights issues first parent dies, the right to dependency benefits Republicans voting Saturday said the debates same-sex couples and “saying we’re therefore for LGBT people might be in Florida, but the such as Social Security, workers compensation, were an important factor in making their going to institute the sacrament of marriage as Sunshine State - unlike the previous three states pensions, insurance, and the right to have at least decisions. Of those who said that, 50 percent though it has no basis.” Marriage, said Gingrich, - has a significant gay Republican presence. one parent available to make decisions if the other voted for Gingrich. was “between a man and a woman.” There are Log Cabin Republican chapters parent is unavailable or incapacitated. In debate Thursday night, Gingrich berated Coming out of South Carolina, Gingrich in Miami, Broward County and Tampa Bay. Currently there are two bills working their CNN moderator John King for asking Gingrich now has 23 delegates toward the GOP nomination, And gay-related issues have been in the news way through the Michigan legislature that would if he wanted to address his ex-wife’s widely which requires 1,144 to secure. Romney has 19 regularly in Florida. allow for second-parent adoption. The Senate version (SB 167) was introduced by Sen. Rebekah Warren (D-Ann Arbor) and the House version (HB Detroit community mourns the loss of Leon Smith 4249) by Rep. Jeff Irwin (D-Ann Arbor). DETROIT – Leon Smith, an elder in “As we prepare for Black History Month Detroit’s LGBT community died Jan.12. let’s take a moment to reflect on the life of a Smith has been an active member of man who was a friend, brother, son, mentor, Detroit’s LGBT movement since the 1980s. He patron, prankster and an inspiration to us all,” was an original steering committee member and KICK commented in an official press release a key participant in the development of Men this week. of Color Motivational Group, a support for “KICK sincerely offers heartfelt prayer black men. Smith was also an original planning and continued condolences to Leon’s family committee member of Detroit’s black LGBT and all those who have been touched by him For further information on children and LGBT pride event Hotter Than July, the statesman for throughout the years.” families, see the new 2011 report: All Children Help & Heal and KICK’s faith-based action and Services were held Jan. 21. Matter: How Legal and Social Inequalities Hurt support group for HIV men. Leon Smith seen here at Hotter Than July. Photo LGBT Families. Additional resources are available courtesy of KICK-Detroit at www.children-matter.org. 12 BTL \ January 26, 2012 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com Film / January 26, 2012 / BTL 13 Actress talks gender-bending role in ‘Albert Nobbs,’ unexpected bisexual turn and the possibility of going lesbian – in real life

BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI she’s never had any intimate human contact, and she’s never been loved an, Glenn Close feels like a by someone. Everything, in a way, woman, but she sure doesn’t is new and unexplored. She does not look like one in her new have, when you first see her, a hugely Mgender-bending movie. In “Albert active regretful longing in her life. Nobbs,” the actress – known especially She counts her money, she wants to to gay audiences for her role in the be left alone, she wants to have the 1995 film “Serving in Silence: The security of her job so that she won’t end Margarethe Cammermeyer Story,” up on the street – and that’s fine with about a real-life lesbian soldier – drops her. She’s lower-class and working, her voice a few notches, wears a top and it’s only when Hubert comes into hat and wraps her torso in a girdle, all her life and she’s revealed that – first to keep her job while living in late- of all, she fears her life as she knows 19th-century Ireland. it ending, but when she hears Hubert’s Recently nominated for an Oscar, story, naturally, she thinks, “Can I do the role – originated by Close on stage that?” But she doesn’t have the tools; nearly 30 years ago – also earned her she just doesn’t. Hubert’s one mistake a Golden Globe nomination. Nods is that she thinks Albert is much more also went to costar Janet McTeer capable of forging a life, but she just for playing Hubert, a cross-dressing isn’t. lesbian who’s living the life that Albert so desperately wants. One of the best lines in the film comes In a recent one-on-one, Close from Hubert, who tells Albert that “you revealed her proudest part of the can be whoever you are.” That’s such film, how she thinks Albert identifies a powerful mantra for all of us, but the sexually and looked back at her gay community can definitely relate. unexpected bisexual role on “Will & Grace.” What effect do you hope that line, and this film, has on the LGBT community? How was it getting in touch with I hope that line makes them really your masculine side? happy. You’re absolutely right to (Laughs) It’s funny, because I never pick out that line, because it comes think of Albert as a man. I always after a scene where Albert, in the thought of her, even as Albert, as dress, realizes that’s not who she is a woman, kind of wearing a mask. either – and that’s when Hubert says, As far as getting in touch with her “Albert, you can be whoever you movement and her voice and all are. Look what you’ve done.” It’s a that, I would think back on the wonderful moment. reality of what she must have gone What about the film, and the role of through when she first had the idea Albert Nobbs, makes you most proud? to disappear as a waiter. The shoes would’ve been too heavy and too big, Moments in the movie when I think the pants would’ve been too long. people honestly forget what they’re Waiters in Victorian times who were looking at. It’s not two gay men and very formal weren’t supposed to look one confused other woman; it’s two anybody in the eye – they were seen, people in a loving and passionate not heard – and so she couldn’t have relationship, being kind to a third chosen a better way to disappear. person. And gender really, at that point, doesn’t matter. I know that it People aren’t sure how to define does matter, but in some ways, if you Albert Nobbs. I’ve heard both look at it from some angles, gender transgender and lesbian used to should be irrelevant. People should describe her. What do you think? be able to love whoever they have that safety and connection with. I don’t think she is either, and That’s a basic human need. And that’s what fascinates me about this that’s what Albert takes on. What character. She disappeared when she she longs for is that sitting room. was 14 and she emerges 30 years Those two chairs in front of the fire later. She’s never been in a home, Photo: Patrick Redmond See Glenn Close, page 17 14 BTL \ January 26, 2012 \ Performing www.PrideSource.com

BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI

orgeous, talented and British – of course Jamie Scott has a gay following. The 27-year-old Gdreamboat fronts U.K. group Graffiti6, a Graffiti folktronica hybrid rooted in Motown and trippy art-pop that dropped their full-length debut, “Colours,” this week. Before a stop at the Blind Pig in Ann Arbor as openers for Augustana, Scott rang to talk gay influences, sex on the road and the importance of looking good.

When did you know you had a gay following? Right from the onset, actually. I didn’t really notice a sudden change in it. It’s just Fix always been. I think ever since my first shows when I was 20. The support from them has been amazing. When did you move to L.A.? And did your gay friend quotient go up? Just under a year ago. Actually, when I first moved to L.A., I had four friends – and they were all gay. My only issue with you looking as dapper as you do is that this whole metrosexual/ Graffiti6 frontman Jamie Scott hipster thing that straight guys have going on is throwing off our gaydar. talks ‘amazing’ gay following I don’t think anyone’s ever told me that I dress well. Would you ever bring a fan back to your Are you conscious of your style? Graffiti6 hotel room? Are there band rules on that? 8 p.m. Jan. 30 Not that conscious of it, actually. I put on I don’t really get to capitalize much on fans Blind Pig the closest thing that’s to the bed. that hit on me after, because I normally 208 N. First St. have to go to bed really early to get up the You must have a gay man helping you Ann Arbor ($15-$20) next morning to do promo, but the band out, then? doesn’t have any rules. You know, it’s quite hard to do lots of things when everyone is No, I don’t. You know what, I always go for was Joni Mitchell. What was it about her? concentrating on the gig and getting the comfort. I like clothes that I feel good in. Well, she’s obviously amazing and the stuff off stage. It normally takes priority. guitar work on “Blue,” which I listened to Some straight male musicians don’t feel Right. You’re there to work. comfortable doing gay press, assuming when I was younger, was really the main people will think they’re gay. Why do you thing. My mom listened to it, and that’s Yeah, exactly. really where that came from. do it, though? Was “This Man” meant to be a sex song? And what about the soulful side of you? (Laughs) Rather than saying, “Why do No, but I’ve had quite a few people who you do gay press?” I’d say, “Why not?” That’s my dad. My dad is really into have said they’ve made love to “This Man.” Motown and Stax Records and Donny Are British men just more secure with Hathaway and Stevie Wonder. Just What else do you have going on? their sexualities? amazing soul musicians and singers. I do quite a bit of writing for other artists, which I’m doing probably more of than I don’t know, man. You’d have to do a What was the first album you owned? survey. I’d be quite interested in the answer. anything else at the moment. I’ve been The vinyl of “Innervisions” by Stevie doing quite a bit of writing for other people How important do you think sex appeal is Wonder. as well as Graffiti6: Enrique Iglesias, a lot in this business? of “The X Factor” stuff, Ron Sexsmith. I Embarrassing music guilty pleasures? I’m not gonna lie: I’ve been signed to two love it. ABBA. I love “Dancing Queen.” different labels since I was 20 and I think What would you be doing if it weren’t it’s obvious what that can add to a project. Are you a good dancer? music? For me, it’s something I’ve always been conscious of, though I always wanted my I’m in “Step Up” – check it out and you If I weren’t doing music, I’d be a gardener. music to be out there first and foremost. can tell if I’m a good dancer, because I was I like trees and I like being outdoors. I trying to do it in there. (Laughs) don’t like being inside much. And it’s not like you’re totally naked in your videos. Who are your gay musician influences? Do you have a garden? You haven’t seen the video for the next I’m a massive fan of Rufus Wainwright. I… wait, I forgot where my place is. one, man. (Laughs) Obviously, Elton John is amazing. (Laughs) Oh yeah, we do have a garden. And, actually, we do a cover of Freddie One of your earliest introductions to music Mercury’s “You’re My Best Friend.” www.PrideSource.com January 26, 2012 / BTL 15 16 BTL \ January 26, 2012 \ TV www.PrideSource.com

Joan Rivers takes off the face Comedian on ‘gay humor’ and reality show’s second season

BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI Yes. Always those little shampoos, little You didn’t get that face from eating apples? soaps, all those cute little things. Sewing kits I got this face from eating artichokes and Joan Rivers has never been one to – you can’t get enough of those! (Laughs) apples and having a great diet. Yeah, right. question her actions. But today, she’s doing All the above – plus a great doctor! just that: “I’m listening to Katy Perry and Which celebrity needs a little more gay I don’t know why.” fashion influence, and a little less? And the freebies you take from hotels. Besides being a firework herself, Oh, I don’t know. Every week it changes That helps, too. That makes you happy. Rivers has little in common with the so much and Melissa (Rivers), the exec ubiquitous pop tart. There’s this, though: producer, throws a hundred pictures on What do you think you’d look like without They’ve both kissed a girl and – as the the table and you start from scratch again, plastic surgery? legendary queen of snark (and facial so it’s always changing. reconfigurations) admits in our recent chat I imagine I’d look a lot like my sister, and – liked it. So much, in fact, that she’d be You’ve been doing press interviews for a long that worries me – because she looks good! (Laughs) up for some more lez loving. But for now time. You must get the same questions. What Rivers is focused on promoting her wacky are you sick of talking about? You’ve wasted all that money, Joan. reality show, “Joan & Melissa: Joan Knows Best,” now in its second season on WE tv. No, you get different questions because It could well be. I could have myself In our interview, Rivers dished on they come from different people. It’s like really nice outfits. an audience: always different every night. the new installment (what if her daughter What don’t they tell you about plastic That sounds funny, but it’s true. Melissa actually were a gay man?), how surgery? her humor’s always been “gay,” and her What are we in for with the second season face – before she redid it. Oh, I don’t know. I don’t listen. I have a of “Joan & Melissa: Joan Knows Best”? friend who wanted to know everything I’m a big fan – but I’m sure every gay man There’s an uber-WASP friend of ours the doctor was going to do. I don’t want tells you that. who turns Jewish; Melissa breaking up to know. He doesn’t ask me how I write with the boyfriend; taking (my grandson) jokes and I don’t ask him how he operates. No, no. No gay men tell me that. Cooper to New York, and he gets lost. All The less I know, the better. of which is true. Things happen that are I don’t believe you. Right. That’s with a lot of things. Like just fabulous. If you liked the first season Well, every now and again. of “Joan Knows Best,” you’re going to Katy Perry. You know, I’m glad this isn’t a face-to-face love the second season. I’m trying like hell. She’s very pretty but I don’t get the music. interview because, since you’re a member You get more plastic surgery during of the “Fashion Police,” you wouldn’t the first episode, “Skintervention.” And You’re not in a teenage dream? approve of my outfit today. Melissa does not approve. No, not in a teenage dream. (Laughs) You wouldn’t approve of what I’m No, she totally doesn’t. But you know, it’s What do you listen to? wearing right now, either! I’m wearing a a business where we all have to look good. stolen hotel bathrobe. One of those white You look at anybody – I mean, Jane Fonda I hate to tell you: show tunes. You could bathrobes that say, “Don’t take these.” running around with a whole new face and sing it and I could tell you where it’s from. Somewhere along the line I did. body and pretending she’s done that through Yeah, show tunes my whole life. My Do you always take things from hotels? eating apples? You wanna go, “Oh stop it!” See Joan Rivers, page 18 www.PrideSource.com Film / January 26, 2012 / BTL 17 ® Glenn Close Continued from p. 13 represent everything that she wants. And it’s basically a safe place with someone across the room. It’s as simple as that. The film, though it’s set in a different time period, is still very relevant to how people nowadays are resisting labels and gender identity. People no longer want to be called gay and lesbian. Queer is now being embraced. Do you see parallels between the film’s resistance of labels and the LGBT community? Absolutely. I always have. I think it’s why this simple story is so powerful. What Janet brought to the part of Hubert is absolutely fantastic, because Hubert defies labels. She doesn’t care about labels. She’s happy with being Hubert, and it’s a great thing to see. No big deals made out of it. But here’s somebody who, even though she has to masquerade as a man, is actually who she is. She’s comfortable with that. Like Janet has said, Hubert doesn’t want to be in a dress, but she’ll do it for Albert. But nah, she’s happy if she never gets in a dress. Let’s talk about all the gay cred you have – and not just with “Albert Nobbs.” You played a lesbian soldier, and kissed Judy Davis, in “Serving in Silence: The Margarethe Cammermeyer Story.” But you also dry humped Debra Messing on “Will & Grace.” (Laughs) Oh my god, that was so funny! I didn’t forget about that, Glenn. Too funny. I went out there thinking I was going to be a marriage counselor. They said, “No, no – you’re going to be this bisexual international photographer.” And I go, “Oh, OK!” You know, many consider you a dykon. When did you first feel embraced by the gay community? Oh, that’s so nice. I’m so flattered. Well, you can’t be in my profession and not have wonderful, important gay friends. I guess you can’t be anywhere in life now and not have wonderful, important gay friends. So it’s just a no-brainer. I started this organization to fight stigma around mental illness, and that’s one kind of frontier – are you saying “queer community” now? What are you saying? Sure, queer works. You’ve all come a long way as far as rights, and I think mentally ill people, many of them, lead secret lives. I don’t know how I got on that. With the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” how do you reflect on your role in “Serving in Silence” and the progress gay people have made in the military? Incredible. I was in touch with Margarethe Cammermeyer when it happened, and we saw it back, what the situation was when we made that movie, and it was amazing. It didn’t ruin her life but it certainly stopped her life on a trajectory that she wanted it to go on – she wanted to be a general and that’s a loss. She was a great soldier. She was remarkable. So I’m very proud of that. I was honored to try to walk a little bit in her shoes, which was impossible. But I’m very proud. And that kiss: I remember you saying that for 30 seconds you felt what it was like to be attracted to the same sex. Yeah, absolutely. If you weren’t an actress, do you think you would’ve ever been inclined to see what that felt like? Oh lord. I don’t know. That’s hard. Obviously it depends on the individual. I can’t answer that. If I wasn’t an actress, I don’t know what kind of life I’d have. 18 BTL \ January 26, 2012 \ TV www.PrideSource.com

she was crazy. You were aware of your gay following early on, while performing at clubs in Greenwich Village. Why did Is anything off limits when the cameras are rolling? you connect with gay people so instantly? No. If you’re going to do a reality show, you I didn’t purposefully connect with them. have to show your real reality, otherwise it’s It was always there. I worked all through gonna be stupid. And they know, people are not college decorating Lord & Taylor windows, that – well, I shouldn’t say that, because look and all the window display men were gay. We at the Kardashians. So people are not, usually, loved each other. that stupid. I think my humor has always been a gay kind Anyone you won’t make fun of? of humor. Gay humor is the smartest humor in the world. And gay audiences make a show. If I look No. If you’re in the public eye, you’re in the public out in an audience and there are six gay men in the eye. And you have no right to say “I’m off limits.” front row, I know we’re going to have fun tonight. Nonsense. Then you’re in the wrong business. Go work at Kmart and no one will care and you can You used to get a lot of flack for some of your have the most private life of anyone in the world. Joan and Melissa Rivers star in jokes – especially ones about AIDS. Is it easier to “Joan & Melissa: Joan Knows Best” In the ’80s you became the permanent guest joke about taboo topics like that now? host on “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson.” Oh, of course. But that’s the way you get people ® Joan Rivers You recently joked about wishing you could Why don’t we have a woman hosting a late-night to pay attention. You know, I did the first AIDS Continued from p. 16 replace Melissa with a gay son. How would the talk show on a major network currently? benefit when it was still called “gay pneumonia.” reality show be different if that were true? We were in such danger that we had men on Because there just isn’t anyone good enough. stage carrying guns because we got death threats. housekeeper goes, “Ew, here comes the score of Well, it’d be a lot of different. We’d have Somebody that was great would be on. I don’t ‘Bells Are Ringing.’ Err!” a whole episode devoted to Judy Garland. know what that means, but that’s what it means. You ruffled some feathers recently when you There’d be nothing to discuss here. told the Advocate that gay actors should stay “Joan & Melissa: Joan Knows Best” is in its How about Kathy Griffin or Chelsea Handler? in the closet because they were committing Maybe even a whole season. second season and – Chelsea: I’ve never seen so I have nothing to career suicide. A whole season on, “Was Judy happy?” say about her. Never watched the show but once It’s done. Thank god! But things never stop You are. If I knew Tom Cruise was gay when I and I thought, “This sucks.” And I don’t know if happening, that’s the trouble. What does Joan know best? was a 7-year-old girl, that would’ve been it. I Kathy would want to do it, or even has the right would’ve put my fantasies on somebody else. With you they don’t, because you’re a workaholic. Being a good grandma. (Cooper) will appreciate equipment for it. It’s a very different hat to put on. Yeah, you’re right. I just went down to me after I’m dead a lot more. Right now I’m Tom Cruise is gay? grandma, but later on when he’s in college with So you’re saying it has nothing to do with gender Williamsburg, Va. with Judge Judy and I thought, but rather talent? Oh, I don’t think so. Do you? “Where are the cameras?” It might be in the third his friends, he’ll get how fun grandma was. She season. Things are always happening. was... not cool – that’s the wrong word – but It’s the talent. That’s why I think Jimmy Fallon You tell me. You’re the celeb guru. is genius. He’s got what Carson had. He’s a fan, I don’t know. You hear so many rumors circulating. he lets his people be funny; he doesn’t compete But I think in certain professions you can’t come with his guests, and he just sits back and lets the out and be America’s romantic idol. Ricky Martin guest do it. He’s amazing. was brilliant in how he handled his career. What about Ellen DeGeneres? But with the social climate changing, do you still Ellen is the most boring white woman in the believe that to be true? world. You’re not talking about that. You’re talking But the most exciting lesbian in the world? about somebody that young girls are going to pay money to see and fantasize about. I think Oh, that’s right. I forgot about that. One of the it’s a very difficult position for somebody to be funniest episodes of her sitcom was when she put in. It’s unfortunate, but it’s life. announced it by mistake over the microphone. When I was a child, I was madly in love When I saw your 2010 documentary, “A Piece of with an actor named Van Johnson – mad about Work,” I was really surprised by how much of a him, had his picture up. In third grade I did a softie you can be. whole notebook on Van Johnson. Then I grew up, he was still adorable but he was gay and he Everybody is. You show so many different was wearing mascara and I thought to myself, things on stage. My act is one kind of talk. In “If I had known then, I wouldn’t have loved Van real life, I can be something else. We’re all so Johnson. I would’ve fallen for John Wayne.” different in different ways. So I think it’s a very difficult choice for an So what’s Joan like off-camera? actor to make if he’s going to make his living as a romantic lead for young girls to adore. Or women. I like to cry a lot. Well, men like to challenge women. Men love to What makes you cry? challenge a lesbian: “Oh, I could turn her around.” That’s a good challenge for a man. What doesn’t? Christmas carols make me cry. As someone who’s had a gay following for years, In “Driftwood,” you played Barbra Streisand’s – what do you think of people claiming that Lady Lesbian lover! Gaga and Kathy Griffin pander to gay audiences and aren’t actually genuine? Would you go lesbian again? I don’t know and I don’t care. How about that? If Babs is available. She was an amazing kisser! Couldn’t care less. I worry about myself. I We still both laugh because that was our first scene love my gay audiences. They’ve been with me – for both of us. She was still in high school. forever, they’ll stay with me forever, and I’m very happy. It’s that simple. www.PrideSource.com Theater / January 26, 2012 / BTL 19 Stagecrafters gambles with serious, moving musical ‘Kiss of the Spider Woman: The Musical’ explores love, longing and liberation

BY BRIDGETTE M. REDMAN PREVIEW ROYAL OAK – There are some shows Kiss of the Spider that community theaters aren’t eager to take risks on in hard economic times. Woman: The Musical Terrence McNally, John Kander and Fred Stagecrafters at Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. Ebb’s musical “Kiss of the Spider Woman: Lafayette Ave., Royal Oak. Jan. 20 - Feb. 12. The Musical” is one such show. $18-$20. 248-541-5430. It can be a hard sell to those looking for www.stagecrafters.org a night of light entertainment. For starters, it takes place in a Latin American prison their board seven years ago for their 50th and centers around the relationship of a anniversary season and has suggested it gay man serving a sentence for corrupting every year since. When he was told last a minor and a Marxist revolutionary who year that they’d finally agreed to do it, he is slowly being tortured to death. Not the was shocked. stuff of a light musical. “I literally didn’t believe it for the “There is a distinction between first 24 hours,” Luther said. “The subject musical comedy and musical theater. This matter is quite difficult, and community is definitely musical theater,” said John theaters…are looking at the bottom line. Luther, the director of a local production We have to choose a season that will make of this musical. “It is a stunning story. money. You can’t bring your kids (to this No matter how difficult it is to watch musical). You can’t sell it as a family show. some of the prison sequences, in the end You have to sell it as a show for adults and there is redemption, revolution, love and hopefully attract adults who want to not As a means of coping with prison life, Molina (John acceptance.” only be entertained, but challenged at the Nowacyzk of Ferndale) dramatically recounts to Stagecrafters in Royal Oak is taking same time.” his cellmate, Valentin (Gary Castaneda of Warren), the economic risk this week when it his favorite movie musical numbers performed by Luther first saw the show during its opens the show Luther has been pitching the alluring Aurora (Maria Tilmos of Novi). Photo: Lance Luce and Colleen Muench to them for years. He first presented it to See Spider Woman, page 21 Tipping Point lists lots of reasons to laugh

BY BRIDGETTE M. REDMAN REVIEW Looking a gift horse in the mouth can The Love List have dangerous consequences. In “The Love List,” Bill gets himself Tipping Point Theatre, 361 E. Cady St., Northville. Thursday-Sunday through Feb. the perfect girlfriend – until he starts trying 19. $28-30. 248-347-0003. to tweak perfection. Then things go seriously awry for both him and his best friend, Leon. www.tippingpointtheatre.com Tipping Point Theatre’s production of Norm Foster’s play is charming and fun The play opens on Bill’s 50th birthday, with just a touch of spookiness. Dave Davies and Leon has bought him the services of creates the statistician Bill who is likeable and a gypsy matchmaker who requires only naive, the type of guy who can be deadly dull that he list the 10 requirements he has for Dave Davies and Wayne David Parker in “The one minute and adorable as a teddy bear the a woman, in order of importance. The two next. Meanwhile Wayne David Parker plays Love List” at Northville’s Tipping Point Theatre. friends quickly reveal the differences in their Photo: Howard and Charlotte Meyer Leon, the novelist who would like to believe values as they discuss what should be on he is suave, debonair and a connoisseur of the list and in what sequence. Shortly after Justine’s presence for long. the female gender. He’s slightly arrogant Leon leaves for the night, Justine shows up Lynn Lammers has fun with the and admittedly shallow, a man who has done at Bill’s apartment, acting as though she has direction of this show, keeping the actors little to make himself a good partner while been in a long-term relationship with him and moving so that audiences on all sides of being overeager to describe in detail what displaying all the characteristics that the two the thrust stage get their turn at viewing the the perfect female match should be. Together, men put on the list. expressiveness of her three actors. She also the two balance the tension and comfort that Bill, who has gone seven years without works with Lighting Designer Joel Klain and simultaneously exists in the long-standing a date and who had been in a pretty lonely Sound Designer Julia Garlotte to create a friendship between these two men. marriage before that, doesn’t take long to handful of clever effects to make the audience It is Tina Gloss-Finnell as Justine who simply accept this gift, first as a joke and wonder exactly what Justine is and where she mixes things up between these best friends, then as fate. If it’s a trick, he’s not too eager comes from. blowing out the comfort zone in which both to get to the bottom of it. Then the two men Properties Designer Natividad Salgado live, and forcing them to question what they learn that when they change the list, Justine has a huge task in filling Bill’s cluttered really want out of life. She is a delight to also changes. apartment, a set built by Dennis Crawley, with watch as she waltzes through their life, the Gloss-Finnel does a fantastic job of Bill’s research materials, a fully stocked bar only one completely assured about everything quickly adapting these changes and forcefully and kitchen that is realistic and functional. she does and who she is – even as her demonstrating the best and worst of each trait “The Love List” is a fun show that personality undergoes major changes when the men come up with. She’s so convincing asks a lot of “what if?” questions about male the men start playing with her traits. that it’s easy to see why Bill can’t question friendships, marriages and dating. 20 BTL \ January 26, 2012 \ Happenings www.PrideSource.com Editor’s Picks For expanded listings & to add a listing, visit our website GLBT chorus. $10 entry, cash prizes. Kerrytown Concert House “WWS X: The The Addams Family $30-70. Wharton Out Loud Chorus, 1950 South Industrial Retrospective” 10th Anniversary Gala Center’s Cobb Great Hall, Michigan State Hwy, Ann Arbor. 734-265-0740. Celebrating the KCH Tradition Wine, Women University, East Lansing. Jan. 31-Feb. 5. Art ‘n’ Around OUTINGS [email protected] olconline.org and Song. Creator/director Wendy Bloom 517-432-2000. www.whartoncenter.com has prepared a special 10th anniversary Friday, Jan. 27 program featuring the best-loved numbers The Whipping Man $10-$32. Plowshares Friday, Feb. 3 Theatre Company at The Music Box Riot Youth Weekly Meeting 4 p.m. from over the last nine years of WWS. True to 2012 Michigan SOGI Education tradition, complimentary wine will be served Theatre at the Max M. Fisher Music Riot Youth is a youth-led, safe space for Conference 7 a.m. Addressing sexual Center, 3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit. lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, as well as alcohol-free options. Tickets: orientation and gender identity issues $20-50. Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N. Through Jan. 29. 313-593-0926. www. queer, questioning youth and their allies in education. Registration fee: $60.00 plowsharestheatre.org (LGBTQQA) at the Neutral Zone, Ann Fourth Ave., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. Jan. 27. 734- participants, $25 students, and $25 769-2999. Kerrytownconcerthouse.com Arbor’s youth-driven teen center. Through information tables for organizations. Dr. leadership skill building, community Eliza Byard, CEO of GLSEN, will be the MSU College of Music “Symphony organizing, networking, support and keynote speaker. Online registration is Orchestra” Guest artist Philip Sinder on socializing, Riot Youth connects youth open through Feb. 1, onsite registration tuba with Leon Gregorian performing ART ‘N’ to build an inclusive community. Meets also available. Oakland University School Stravinsky, Newman, Debussy, and Ravel. every Friday. The Neutral Zone, 310 E. of Education and Human Services, 2200 Cobb Great Hall, West Circle Drive, East Washington St., Ann Arbor. 734-214- N. Squirrel Road, Rochester. 248-370- Lansing. 8 p.m. Jan. 27. 517-432-2000. 9995. Neutral-zong.org 4614. Oakland.edu/sogi Music.msu.edu AROUND Womyn’s Film Night 7 p.m. Film: The Cass Cafe Gallery “New Work” Featuring Ozone House’s QueerZone 6:30 p.m. University Musical Society “Hamburg the art of two Detroit based artists, M. Four-Faced Liar. The story of a group of QueerZone is an Ypsilanti-based program Symphony Orchestra” Messiaen’s From New York 20-somethings. Bridget is a hip, Saffell Gardner and Tylonn J. Sawyer. that provides a safe space for LGBTQ the Canyons to the Stars, inspired by the Cass Cafe, 4260 Cass Ave., Detroit womanizing lesbian who loves Emily Bronte, youth to congregate, socialize, build natural wonder found in the landscapes and who lives with her guy pal Trip. One Midtown. Jan. 14-March 17. 313-831- community and access support services of the American West. Ticket information 1400. Casscafe.com night, they meet straight-laced New York as needed. LGBTQ youth ages 13-20 available at ums.org. Hill Auditorium, 825 newbies Greg and Molly at their favorite are also encouraged to join Queerzone’s N. University Ave., Ann Arbor. 4 p.m. Jan. Cranbrook Art Museum “No Object is an Gallery Project will present American Dream, a multimedia hangout, The Four-Faced Liar. Affirmations, private, confidential Facebook group to 29. 734-764-2538. Ums.org Island: New Dialogues with the Cranbrook 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398- keep in touch with other queer youth. Collection” First exhibition in the newly exhibit in which 29 local, regional and national artists explore 7105. Goaffirmations.org Ozone House, 1705 Washtenaw, Ann renovated and expanded museum how hopeful narratives of the American experience are Drag Queen Bingo 8 p.m. “This ain’t your Arbor. 734-662-2265. Ozonehouse.org exploring Cranbrook’s continued influence changing. grandma’s bingo.” Hosts Sabin, Trixie in the world of Contemporary Art and Womyn’s Film Night 7 p.m. Film: Drop Design. Nov. 12-March 25. 877-462- Deluxxe or September Murphy. Open to all Dead Gorgeous. Chicago-born comedienne THEATER As a national ethos, the American Dream can be interpreted 7262. Cranbrookart.edu 18+. Refreshments and bingo food fare. Alex Borstein, creator of a string of hilarious CIVIC/COMMUNITY THEATER as a better life of opportunity for all, or a quest for material Reservations available by phone. Five15, characters on “Mad TV” and the voice of Apocalypse? HOW?! $10. Fancy Pants Epiphany Glass Studio “Open Studio” 515 S. Washington, Royal Oak. 248-515- wealth, leading to the overindulgence in personal possessions Lois Griffin on “Family Guy,” lets loose in Theater at Studio 246, 246 N. Kalamazoo Artist April Wagner will open her state of 2551. Five15.net for the assertion of a perceived identity. a Sybil Dorsett kind of way in this raucous Mall, Kalamazoo. Jan. 27-29. www. the art glass studio with glass blowing Regardless, this “dream” can act as a façade cloaking the one-woman show. Affirmations, 290 W. fancypantstheater.webs.com demonstrations throughout the evening. Saturday, Jan. 28 Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. Work with Wagner to create a glass blown reality of the American experience for many individuals. The Partnerships in Parenting 1 p.m. Goaffirmations.org Kiss of the Spider Woman: The Musical flower for $50. Epiphany Glass Studio, 770 American Dream investigates this reality, as well as asking for promoting the importance of relationship $18-20. Stagecrafters at Baldwin Orchard Lake Road, Pontiac. 3 p.m. Feb. 2. Theatre, 415 S. Lafayette Ave., Royal Oak. visions of a new ideal. and family development for LGBTQ Saturday, Feb. 4 248-745-3786. Epiphanyglass.com parents and their children. Seeking to Through Feb. 12. 248-541-5430. www. The exhibit runs through March 4. The opening reception Wintergreen Euchre 6 p.m. A friendly stagecrafters.org Gallery Project “American Dream” build a stronger connection between card game and a social outing for Womyn A multimedia exhibit in which 29 is 6 p.m. Jan. 27. The Gallery Project is located at 215 S. Fourth parents and children through social of all ages, meeting the first Saturday. No The Boy in the Bathroom $15. local, regional, and national artists Ave. in Ann Arbor. For more information, call 734-997-7012 networking and community outreach. RSVP or partner is needed. There is a $5 Peppermint Creek Theatre Company at explore how hopeful narratives of the Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile Road, or go to www.thegalleryproject.com. donation. Arrive a little early to get settled Creole Gallery, 1218 Turner St., Lansing. American experience is changing. Ferndale. 734-574-5953. Ky.intimates@ in and registered for a seat. Wintergreen Through Jan. 29. 517-927-3016. www. Gallery Project, 215 S. Fourth Ave., Ann gmail.com GoAffirmations.org Euchre, 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. peppermintcreek.org Arbor. Jan. 25-March 4. 734-997-7012. Home.comcast.net/~vern909/site/ Thegalleryproject.com Theater Lezread 4 p.m. Ann Arbors book group for PROFESSIONAL Lesbians. Meets the last Sunday of every Kerrytown Concert House “Oil Paintings $18. Threefold month. Lezread, 319 Braun Court, Ann Sunday, Feb. 5 A Body of Water by Denis Lee” Visual artist Denis Lee’s Productions at Mix Studio Theater, 8 Arbor. 734-678-2478. [email protected] Pronto! Super Bowl Extravaganza 10 work combines the vibrant colors of N. Washington St., Ypsilanti. Through a.m. Free gourmet hot dog buffet at Half insects plants and particularly sea life. Feb. 4. 734-778-0627. www. Time. $4 Calls, $2 Domestic Bottles, $3 Denis Lee is Professor Emeritus at Sunday, Jan. 29 threefoldproductions.org The Conversation Station 5 p.m. LGBTQI Drafts and $3 Shots during the game. the University of Michigan. Kerrytown 25 and over, join GOAL each week for Pronto!, 608 S. Washington Ave., Royal Burn the Red Banner: Or, Let the Rebels Concert House, 415 N. Fourth Ave., Ann discussion, food and fun. Topic: When is Oak. 248-544-7900. Have Their Fun By donation. Abreact Arbor. Jan. 4-Jan. 27. 734-769-2999. art considered pornographic? Get Out And Performance Space, 1301 W. Lafayette Kerrytownconcerthouse.com #113, Detroit. Feb. 2-25. 313-454-1542. Live!, 714 S. Washington St., Royal Oak. Lawrence Street Gallery “The Body www.theabreact.com 248-981-4227. MarciLWilliams@yahoo. Eclectic” This juried competition and com GetOutAndLive.me MUSIC & Burying the Bones $17-20. Detroit exhibition celebrates the figure in Repertory Theatre, 13103 Woodrow all forms and media, both two and Monday, Jan. 30 Wilson, Detroit. Through March 18. 313- three-dimensional. Lawrence Street Following Their Sex Drive: Detroit’s 868-1347. www.detroitreptheatre.com Gallery, 22620 Woodward Ave., Ferndale. Urban Gay Space and the Queer Sexual Feb. 1-Feb. 29. 248-544-0394. MORE Dead Man’s Shoes Previews Jan. 26-29 Commute: 1945-1965 4 p.m. Tim Retzloff, Lawrencestreetgallery.com The Ark “35th Ann Arbor Folk Festival” & Feb. 2 ($15). $20-25. Williamston of the Yale University Doctoral Program The annual Ann Arbor Folk Festival, a Theatre, 122 S. Putnam St., Williamston. The Detroit Institute of Arts “Once Upon with an emphasis on History, will speak fundraiser for The Ark, returns to Hill Jan. 26-Feb. 26. 517-655-7469. www. a Time: Prints and Drawings that Tell about Detroit’s LGBT history during 1945- Auditorium for two dynamic and different williamstontheatre.org Stories” Includes selections from familiar 1965. University of Michigan, 204 S. State Plowshares Theatre Company kicks off 2012 with a revival nights of folk and roots music. Tickets series, portfolios and books, as well as St., Ann Arbor. 734-647-6394. Umich.edu range from $80-290. Hill Auditorium, Hill God of Carnage $22-41. Performance several examples that have rarely or of the fall’s hit drama “The Whipping Man.” The production Auditorium, Ann Arbor. Jan. 27-Jan. 28. Network Theatre, 120 E. Huron St., Ann New Member Night 7 p.m. For the never been seen. Detroit Institute of Arts, 734-647-3327. Theark.org Arbor. Through Feb. 19. 734-663-0681. concludes its run Jan. 29 at The Music Box Theatre at the Max spring concert season. Opportunity 2100 Woodward, Detroit. Dec. 18-Jan. 29. www.performancenetwork.org M. Fisher Music Center. to join LGBT chorus group. All are Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings 313-833-7900. Dia.org April 1865. The Civil War is over. Into the chaos of welcome--LGBT & allies. No sight-reading “Celebration of Life: Edgar Hagopian” Same Time Next Year $18. Two Muses University of Michigan Museum of skills are required! We are Washtenaw Celebrate the life of Edgar Hagopian, one Theatre at Barnes and Noble Booksellers Art “Face of Our Time” Examines more war-ravaged Richmond, Virginia comes Caleb DeLeon, a County’s original mixed LGBT chorus. of Detroit’s greatest music lovers and Theatre, 6800 Orchard Lake Road, West than 100 works by five photographers severely wounded Confederate officer who is Jewish. He finds Out Loud Chorus, 1400 West Stadium philanthropists. Tickets: $22 regular, $10 Bloomfield. Feb. 1-19. 248-850-9919. who operate within what Walker Evans his family’s home in ruins and abandoned. The only familiar Boulevard, Ann Arbor. 734-265-0740. students. Reception to follow. Hagopian www.TwoMusesTheatre.org referred to as the “documentary style.” [email protected] olconline.org World of Rugs, 850 S Old Woodward Ave, University of Michigan Museum of Art, faces left are Simon and John, two former slaves, waiting for Birmingham, MI 48009, Birmingham. Smokey Joe’s Cafe $18-32. The Encore Musical Theatre Company, 3126 Broad 525 S. State St., Ann Arbor. Nov. 12-Feb. the family to return. While they look out for signs of a return Wednesday, Feb. 1 7 p.m. Feb. 3. 248-559-2095. 29. 734-764-0395. Umma.umich.edu detroitchamberwinds.org St., Dexter. Feb. 2-26. 734-268-6200. to normality, the three men struggle with their shared past and Ladies Who Lunch 11 a.m. Ladies meet www.theencoretheatre.org the reality of the new world they now live in. at Nina’s Cafe for food and conversation. Detroit Symphony Orchestra “Invitation Contact Angie to make a reservation. to the Dance” DSO Principal Horn Karl Performances are 8 p.m. Fridays, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays, The Resource Center, 1710 W. Main St., Pituch performs Mozart’s delightful Fourth and 3 p.m. Sunday. Tickets range from $27.50 to $32. Kalamazoo. kglrc.org Horn Concerto while Hans Graf leads The Max M. Fisher Music Center is located at 3711 favorites by Carl Maria von Weber and Thursday, Feb. 2 Schumann’s stirring Second Symphony. Woodward Ave., Detroit. For information, call 313-593-0926. Tickets: $15. Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Euchre Tournament 7 p.m. Euchre 3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 8 p.m. Jan. tournament fundraiser to benefit Out Loud 28. 313-576-5100. Dso.org Chorus, Washtenaw County’s original www.PrideSource.com Theater / January 26, 2012 / BTL 21

® Spider Woman Continued from p. 19 original run on Broadway in 1993 and again in 1994. He was a professional dancer in New York and had many friends who were sick or dying of AIDS. “Kiss of the Spider Woman” presented a gay character who was more than just comic relief. “There is a real dimensionality to this particular character,” Luther said. “He generated a lot of pathos. It was very transformative to see this story unfold at a time when I was dealing with so many people dead and dying. It gave me a lot of insights into the relationships we form, how we think about love, how we think about reality and how we create our own realities.” Another challenge with this musical is finding the right people. It calls for 13 men and three women. All the men have to be able to act, sing, and dance – something that can be difficult to find outside of the professional realm. While praising his leads, Luther said he is especially thrilled with the cast’s ensemble. “The ensemble have worked so hard to make this show look and feel the way this show needs to look and feel. I really have to say hats off to the ensemble in this show. They’re the glue that holds everything together.” John Nowaczyk plays Molina, the gay man who fantasizes about movie musicals featuring Aurora in her multiple roles. Gary Castaneda is Valentin, the macho revolutionary who slowly comes to accept his cellmate. Playing the fantasy actress Aurora in her many roles is Maria Tilmos. “Nowaczyk has so much depth to the character Molina,” Luther said. “He goes from being campy and over the top to pathetic to triumphant to heroic. It’s just amazing to watch how John transforms the character over the course of the show. It’s the same with Gary who plays Valentin. He starts out as an angry revolutionary. We see his character, against his will, become so much more accepting of Molina. In the Latin macho culture, you would never form a positive relationship with a gay person. Over time you watch him transform because of Molina and (Gary) does a great job with that transformation.” Tilmos has the demanding title role, an actress playing an actress who appears in different roles every time she appears. She’s clothed in different costumes and performs in a variety of styles, both acting and musical. With its sweeping set and hauntingly beautiful music featuring Latin beats, viola and oboe, Luther strongly believes this is a show that deserves to be seen – by both the gay and straight communities. “I would love for people to just come to the show because it is a good show and one of the characters happens to be gay,” said Luther. “That’s my philosophy on being gay. It doesn’t define the entirety of who I am. Yes, being gay is part of who I am, but it isn’t everything. (Molina) is a gay man in the beginning, but in the end, he has absorbed so much that he is a man who happens to be gay.” 22 BTL \ January 26, 2012 \ Rear View www.PrideSource.com Classifieds

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Horoscopes Brush up on skills, Sagittarius! BY JACK FERTIG

Mars is turning retrograde and will backtrack through Virgo until April 13. In this period, recent pet peeves, critical arguments, bitchy outbursts and intestinal inflammations will come back to haunt you. Keep an eye on self-improvement without beating yourself up.

ARIES (March 20 – April stuck you may find better ways 19): Your ruler, Mars, turning of doing it. retrograde in Virgo is likely SCORPIO (October 23 – to make you cranky, even November 21): Frustration aggressive, especially with with co-workers has more to do colleagues, in the next few with your expectations than with weeks. Obsessing over details them. Brace yourself for recent can distract you from bigger problems to come back at you. issues and dangers. But do heed You need to mouth off. Save it details that concern your health! for your friends who can help TAURUS (April 20 – May 20): you develop a better perspective. Being “too” nice can come off as SAGITTARIUS (November saccharine and manipulative. Use 22 – December 20): Talk with your overactive charms to deal relatives about family health with problems in a straightforward issues. Better to get rude surprises fashion. Resist the urge to gloss from your family to prepare over them. Flirtations can lead a your doctor than the other way lot further than intended. around! Brush up on skills and GEMINI (May 21- June 20): get updated on technology that Disagreements at home are likely will help you at work. to get out of hand, and especially CAPRICORN (December when you thought you’d just 21 – January 19): Recurrence settled the problem. Be as patient of old arguments may highlight and diplomatic as you can. Your your need to reconsider ideals attention will soon turn to more and tenets you’ve long taken for interesting problems. granted. Be careful that shrewd CANCER (June 21- July 22): insight doesn’t push you to A new passionate fling probably disillusion friends. You can be seems a lot more serious than realistic and respectful. it really is. Or less. Either way AQUARIUS (January 20 – it’s sure to surprise you – and February 18): The impulse to probably a lot more people than demonstrate your debonair wit you’d like to have know about it. could easily backfire. The line LEO (July 23 – August 22): It’s between incisive epigrams and too easy to react to others. Your rude bitchiness is too easy to natural instinct is to be a control stumble over. If you need to queen, but more productively, be naughty, find an appropriate try to see why your nerves are partner and a room. so raw. Vigorous exercise will PISCES (February 19 – March help your balance and insight. 19): Venus is in Pisces boosting VIRGO (August 23 – your charm and seductiveness. Solution to puzzle from page 24 September 22): A conservative, It’s very easy to talk your way PUZZLE SOLUTION cautious approach to a creative into a hot little affair, but you problem will provide a key may soon find it harder to get out to much more imaginative of. Be sure of where the exits are possibilities. Take that inspiration before you step into anything! to work and you’ll find more ideas pointing to new methods. Jack Fertig, a professional With a solid grounding, dare to astrologer since 1977, is available advance bold new techniques. for personal and business LIBRA (September 23 – consultations in person in San October 22): Hitting a plateau Francisco, or online everywhere. in whatever you’re working He can be reached at 415-864- on is a natural stage. Don’t 8302, through his website at http:// let it discourage you! Keep at www.starjack.com, and by email whatever you’re doing, although at [email protected]. if you can figure out why you’re 24 BTL \ January 26, 2012 \ Rear View www.PrideSource.com Across 46 What livers do 21 One-night-stand partners 48 Spacey’s “The ___ Suspects” 22 Taj ___ Who’s That Girl Crush? 1 Inedible Apple 50 She admitted a crush on Angelina Jolie 25 Made purely academic 5 Thailand neighbor 55 Frock wearer 26 Current event? 9 He gives gifts in stocking 58 Susan Feniger preparation 27 Liam of “Kinsey” 14 “Safe!” or “Out!” 59 Barbra’s “Funny Girl” co-star 28 Cream-filled pastry 15 Heterogeneous mixture 60 “One of Ours” novelist Cather 29 Medium meeting 16 George, who was Mary Ann 61 Like a virgin 30 Moves like Mae West 17 “The African Queen” author 62 The number of people who like it hot 31 Med. care groups 18 Middle of Caesar’s boast 63 Raggedy Ann and others 34 Screws up 19 Drummer managed by Brian Epstein 64 Went lickety-split 35 François Ozon, to himself 20 She admitted a crush on Sophia Loren 65 Slant unfairly 36 Huge flop 23 Gay city 38 Mr. Right-now 24 What male impersonators do? 41 Felt around the head? 28 Augusten Burroughs’ works Down 42 One that plays with balls at the circus 31 LBJ’s veep 45 Crossed swords 32 Bullring bravo 1 Optimist’s phrase 47 Darn extension 33 Boston ball handlers, briefly 2 Three guys who went to see Mary 48 Finish off 34 She admitted a crush on Christina 3 “ ___ Baldwin Doesn’t Love Me” Hendricks 4 Elizabeth Taylor movie 49 You might pick one up in an alley 37 Bear’s den 5 Brooks and Barney, for two 51 Little fairies 38 Spit that didn’t get swallowed 6 Quite similar 52 Welcome response after an SM session 39 Porter’s regretful miss 7 Nostalgic song 53 “Zami: A New Spelling of My ___ “ 40 She admitted a crush on Charlize 8 Came out with 54 Shot up Theron 9 Top angels 55 WNBA position 42 Trial figure 10 Dress with a flared bottom 56 Carnaval locale 43 “Eeew!” 11 Henry and June’s Anais 57 Will descriptor 44 They could come from Uranus 12 Dress (up) 45 Completely faithful 13 From ___ Z (completely) Solution on page 23

Pet of the Week

Meet Mr. Squeakers! 2-year-old Fox Terrier mix, this lively and energetic little guy Ais quite the handful at only 8 pounds! A lover of all toys and tennis balls, Mr. Squeakers loves attention and would do best with an active family that can give him lots of love. Come meet him today! The adoption fee includes sterilization, age-appropriate vaccinations and much more! Visit or call the Michigan Humane Society’s off-site adoption location at the Sterling Heights Petco at (586) 533-9110 and provide the pet ID number, 707377. Photo by Heidi Waeschle-Gabel. www.PrideSource.com Rear View / January 26, 2012 / BTL 25 Dear Jody

words, I told him things about myself that aren’t Cheater looks true. I told him that I was an architect, that I for answers lived in a part of town that is ritzy, that I belong to clubs that are very exclusive, and so on. You I was drinking probably wonder why I said all this. I’ve been one day with my wondering that myself. The only thing that I can bestQ: friend “Nancy.” I come up with is that I had too much to drink and had several mixed drinks. because I really thought that I would only have a Nancy was not drunk. So, one-night stand with this guy, and that would be I don’t know how it all that. I figured that if I didn’t build myself up like happened, but one thing I did, I would soon be dismissed by him, and he’d led to another and Nancy and I had sex. be onto someone else. Well, I was successful in I’ve been in a relationship for four years my quest; he wanted me. And I have to say, I had now with my girlfriend, “Allison.” The awful one great New Year’s Eve. It was the greatest, thing about all this is that she lives in another sexist night of my life! country. We have been working out our long- I know that I am a fraud. I guess I wanted to distance relationship for a year now. I have to live out a fantasy, and I was willing to do whatever say that I didn’t have any intentions of having it took. I didn’t realize or believe that he would sex with my straight friend because I love Allison want to see me again. I didn’t mention it earlier, to death. I’m literally dying with what happened but I am not in his league when it comes to looks with Nancy. or accomplishments. That’s why I was counting on Should I tell Allison what happened all my made-up attributes to attract him. Well, it did. with Nancy? The problem is – as I’m sure you can determine – Guilty Conscience my made-up attributes are just that: made up! I got a call from this guy. He wants us to meet up again. What could I say but yes. I know Why would you want to do that? I suppose that I can’t keep up this charade for long. Frankly, A: it might make you feel better, like lessen I wish he’d never called again, and that I was left your feeling of guilt, but unburdening yourself with just a fantasy that was fulfilled. won’t help her or make her feel good. And So, how do I get out of this mess? it won’t change anything that you and your Queen for a Night “straight” friend did together. I think you’d do better turning your attention to what happened with Nancy and why, and if a long-distance relationship will work for you. It’s It seems to me that you either have to tell not about why you and a “straight” friend had sex. A: him that you are not interested in dating It’s about why you had sex with another person or a relationship with him, or tell him the truth – other than the woman you are in a relationship who knows, maybe, for him, it’s not about all with. I’m assuming your relationship is meant to your made-up attributes. I see no other choices. be monogamous, or you wouldn’t be upset about Your predicament reminds me of the old adage: this and writing to me. “Oh what a tangled web we weave, when first we practice to deceive.” I’m not who he thinks Jody Valley spent 12 years as a clinical social worker. She worked with the LGBT community I lost my head or had too many drinks both as a counselor and a workshop leader in the – or both – on New Year’s Eve. I met this areas of coming out, self-esteem and relationship guy,Q: “Damon,” at a party and was blown out of issues. The “Dear Jody” column appears weekly. the water by him. He’s a real hottie and a very successful person. He is someone I didn’t ever Reach Jody via Facebook (Dear Jody Valley) or think I could get. So, when he asked me about at [email protected]. Letters may be myself, well, I sort of embellished. In other edited for clarity and length. 26 BTL \ January 26, 2012 \ Rear View www.PrideSource.com Cocktail Chatter

I’ve not made a point of stating directly. an original cocktail: “The Faux de Vie.” As I near the end of my second season as As you may know, Eau de Vie is a clear, The Faux de Vie “Cocktail Chatter” columnist, it’s time to double-distilled brandy that has the flavor BY ED SIKOV set the record straight (so to speak): of the fruit from which it is distilled. Except for the recipes, “Cocktail Varieties include pear, raspberry, plum and From the mailbag comes this gem-like Chatter” is pure fiction. I make this stuff peach. Eau de Vie translates as Water of nugget: “You’re a really great writer, Ed. up, people. There is no Kyle, no Robbie, Life, but a fine Eau de Vie is pricier than You’re also a mess.” I say: True on both no Craig, no Jack Fogg…. There’s sort even the most expensive bottled water. It counts! I don’t think I’m bragging when of a Dan, but that’s not his real name, can run you $120 or more. I agree with the first part. I’m sure most and he doesn’t work for a pharmaceutical So forget the real stuff and make of you have something you know you’re company. Some of the characters were yourself a Faux de Vie! Get yourself a good at, whether it’s managing staff, originally based on people I know, and copy of the extraordinarily gorgeous and making ceramic bowls, salesmanship or some are purely my own creation. But their superbly entertaining “Imitation of Life,” cooking. It’s good for your state of mind; origins are irrelevant because they all grew the 1959 tearjerker directed by the great it builds confidence to have confidence. into different, fully formed (albeit fictional) Douglas Sirk and starring the inimitable As for the second point, I acknowledge people the more I wrote about them. These Lana Turner, and you’ve got yourself a that, too. I used to be more of a mess than nonexistent folks don’t let me put words in perfectly “faux” evening. I am now, but I’m still neurotic. Hey, I’m their mouth they don’t think they’d really a gay Jew from a cruddy little town in say. It’s like I’m channeling them, and Making the Faux de Vie western Pennsylvania. I got called vicious when I add a word they don’t like they names every damned day until I escaped to make me delete it. A novelist friend of mine 1 jigger Absolut vodka college. What do you expect? was not at all surprised when I mentioned A couple drops of the liqueur of your The message writer was referring this bizarre situation to him. He can’t force choice to a specific column – the “Yankee Mint his characters to do or say what he wants Julep” one, in which I respond to Kyle and them to do or say either. They, too, have Get a small glass and carefully pour Robbie’s acoustically vibrant and (to me) their own voices and personalities, and he just a few drops of Chambord, Cointreau, demoralizing sex romp upstairs at the beach can’t control them either. or any fruit liqueur into it. Add vodka. house by swigging from a magnum of Jack In that spirit, or perhaps in those Sip. Don’t overwhelm the vodka with Daniels. It was a pretty good column, I spirits – or maybe even in the spirit of liqueur; the drink should have just a hint think, but the response brought up a fact those spirits who drink spirits – I created of fruit to it. www.PrideSource.com Rear View / January 26, 2012 / BTL 27