Section A NEW YORK STATE'S OLDEST ~ LGBT PUBLICATION

31 Ways for 31 Days: It's LGBT Health Month By Susan Jordan A health tip every day for The 2010 Census: the 31 days of March -- that's what you get from the calen­ How to fill out dar planned by the NYS Health the form and be and Human Services Network's Healthcare Committee. That counted, maybe and a lot of exciting events. By Ove Overmyer Erik Libey of AIDS Care This month, American filled in The Empty Closet on households everywhere will some of the events and informa­ receive their 2010 Census forms tion which he hopes will make in the mail: an important civic LGBT people in the Rochester milestone that happens only area healthier, and even happier, once every 10 years. by April. What makes this year's Cen­ "We've done a week-long sus historic is the unprecedented health observance for four years outreach by u.s. Census lead­ now," Libey said. "We wanted ers and managers to include the to do it bigger and better and LGBT and allied community in this year we decided to do a full these efforts, as a way to achieve month." the nation's most accurate count possible. While far from perfect (see OPINION, page A 14), the 2010 Census at least provides the possibility of visibility. Plans are The Health Month calendar is at www.everybodysgood.com. underway to improve the 2020 census in order to make it genu­ z cancer," reminding lesbians and access local therapists and other inely inclusive (see below). ~ bi women that they are often treatment," he said, "and also Dr. Robert Groves, Direc­ Q seen as being at higher risk, or link to the website's own direc­ tor of the u.s. Census Bureau, ~ "Know if you're depressed." The tory of local providers." endorsed the 2010 initiative: ~ tip of the day will be featured He listed some of the out­ "We are charged each ten years g on the Health Month calendar standing events for Health to provide Congress with a Cen­ ~ and the AIDS Care website at Month. ''Around 18 events will sus they trust to be accurate and ~~~...... ILL...... IIII..-_"";';:!I..---1 a. www.everybodysgood.com. The be taking place," he said. "Some complete. We are grateful to our website will also provide links to are events that were already LGBT community partners in Libey said that some of the other information on the site and planned for March, but which helping us achieve this signifi­ tips are very basic, general things to local and national resources. we feel will add to people's well­ cant responsibility, and to help like "Take the stairs" or "Floss Libey said that "Know if being, like the RGMC concert, educate, motivate and inspire your teeth". Others, while good you're depressed" will link to the Vagina Monologues produc­ everyone to take part and above reminders for anyone, are aimed an online depression test which tion and the Rainbow SAGE all, to be visible and counted." specifically at the LGBT com­ people can take for free. "You Intergenerational Panel. Others (Census continues page 3) munity, such as "Screen for breast can put in your zip code and (31 Ways continues page 3)

HIV/AIDS groups raise awareness of testing, treatment in our area By Ove Overmyer On the cold and snowy Sat­ urday afternoon of Feb. 6, over 125 people gathered at the Audi­ 0:: torium Center to share stories W and information on how HIVI ::;:>­ 0:: AIDS has devastated our com­ W ~ munities of color. W National Black HIV/AIDS ~ Awareness Day is a national o b ~ HIV testing and treatment com­ ....__ ... il: ~ munity mobilization initiative Stephaun Clipper of MOCHA '{l targeted at African American ~ people in the United States and people of color educated on the g; the Diaspora. There are four basics of HIV/AIDS in their :3 specific focal points: education, local communities. @ testing, involvement, and treat­ On Feb. 7, the National Black il: ment. The main focus is to get (HIVIAIDS continues page 3)

The Gay Alliance appreciates the continuing ., .... partnership of businesses within our community Ko ak Excellus ~ M!!rrlll Lyn ch who support our mission and vision. Inside CORNING Section A -f. e lIIoIIILlWiace S[tylClU I Newsfronts ...... 4 Gold Eastman Kodak Company; Excellus, Mass Mutual e NIXON PI'ASD IJY U.F Financial Group; Merrill Lynch; Met Life, Nixon Peabody, LLP ~Th 0. ... Interview: Darrell Lance ...... 6 MONRO ·O J\N Opinion: Census ...... 14 Silver Ace Mailing Services; Bausch & Lomb Inc.; ~ITT ORttPrifAL From Our Readers ...... 17 Corning Incorporated; Harter Secrest & Emory LLP; Making The Scene ...... 18 Heveron & Heveron CPAs; ITT Corporation; Monroe Plan for TOM P Kl Nil Section B Medical Care; Sage Advisors of Sage Rutty; S1. John Fisher C,I 'f'" Entertainment: Drag racing ...... 1 College; Tim Tompkins Enterprises; Xerox Capital Services Columnists ...... 15 Bronze Canandaigua National Bank; Edgerton Florist; EMPIRlSTATE. GAGV News: Marriage Empire State College; GALAXE Pride at Work; Open Arms EDGEIHON FLORAL co COLLEGE resour ces ...... 10 Groups ...... 13 Metropolitan Community Church; Third Presbyterian Church; Calendar ...... 14 Wegmans Food Markets; The Woolbright Group - Classifieds ...... 14 Pride Thomson Reuters Ongoing Calendar ...... 115 2 A THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • NUMBER 432 • MARCH 2010 AY ALLIANCE EE VALLEY

The Empty Closet is published by the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley 875 E. Main Street, Suite 500 Rochester, New York 14605 © 2010, All rights reserved.

Editor·in·Chief: Susan Jordan FROM THE FROM THE Staff Reporters: Ove Overmyer, Laura McSpadden Empty Closet Editor Executive Director Graphic Design: Jim Anderson

Advertising policy: SUSAN JORDAN SUE COWELL The Empty Closet does not print advertise­ ments that contain nude drawings or pho­ at a 2006 conference on "Race of legal referrals to deal with tographs, nor does it print advertising that and Conservatism" that featured legal issues that would be very states that the person pictured in the ad is for sale, or that you will "get" that particular leading white nationalists and different if their partner was person if you patronize the establishment proponents of ''Aryanism''. The legally defined as a spouse. advertised. Advertisements that are explicitly photo, published Jan. 30 on the Marital status affects social racist, sexist, ageist, ableist or homophobic will be refused; advertisements from organi­ site of the anti-racism group One security survivor benefits and zations that are sexist, racist, ageist, ableist People's Project, shows O'Keefe translates into more than or anti-gay will also be refused. All politi­ cal advertisements must contain information at the gathering, which even the $5,000 a year in benefits avail­ about who placed them and a method of ultra-right Leadership Institute, able to legally married spouses. contact. Additionally, The Empty Closet does which employed O'Keefe at the Losing their partner's income not print negative or "attack" advertisements, whether they relate to a product or politics time, wouldn't endorse. puts an elder survivor at risk and no matter in whose interest the ad is Meanwhile, Rick Jacobs of for losing their home. It means being produced. A negative advertisement the Courage Campaign has filed that those who can't be legally is defined as one that focuses upon a rival product, or in the political area, a rival elec­ complaints with the California married have to do retirement tion candidate or party, in order to point out Fair Political Practices Commis­ planning very differently. If supposed flaws and to persuade the pub­ lic not to buy it (or vote for him or her). The sion and the Attorney General's one partner needs Medicaid Empty Closet maintains, within legal bound­ office against Andy Pugno, Gen­ financed nursing home care, aries, neutrality regarding products, political eral Counsel to the organization their partner can lose a jointly candidates and parties. However, "attack" The Right: Why ads that fail to provide undisputable evidence Protect Marriage and Repub­ owned home, since assets are that the information in the ad is true do not preaching morality lican candidate for California Marriage not protected unless married. further in any way the objectives and poli­ State Assembly. The complaint The list of issues goes on and cies of the Gay Alliance or The Empty Closet, & breaking the law Matters! including the primary tenet that The Empty alleges Pugno misused public is very long. Closet's purpose is to inform the Rochester Remember CREEP and funds in violation of the state A tremendous amount of The Gay Alliance sees the gay community and to provide an impartial forum for ideas. Watergate? Maybe you also Political Reform Act while a time, energy and money was impact by the phone calls we recall last year's rightwing trash­ staffer for State Senator Pete spent in 2009 to secure mar­ receive. Unfortunately too Submissions: For publication, submit news items, ads, ing of ACORN, the African Knight, in support of a ballot riage rights in New York State. many in our community do photos, letters, stories, poetry, ads, pho­ American community organiz­ initiative to ban same-sex mar­ The good news is that the bill not realize the full impact this tographs or art by mail or in person to The Empty Closet office by the 15th of the month. ing group. riage, approved at the November did come up for a vote in the may one day have on our own Design services for non-camera ready ads For weeks, conservatives 2000 election as Proposition 22. NY Senate for the first time. lives. I strongly urge everyone are available for a fee. (www.emptycloset@ screamed that ACORN staffers This year Pugno was part of Although the vote failed we to take the time to educate gagv.us) had helped a pimp get fund­ the legal team defending Prop 8. now know where work remains yourself about the differences Publication Information: ing, as revealed by hidden cam­ Documents revealed at the trial to be done. We know that and how your family would be The Empty Closet is published 11 times a year (December and January combined) by era videos, and hailed James showed a clear pattern of collab­ public polls continue to trend impacted without legal mar­ The Empty Closet Press for the Gay Alliance O'Keefe, who had posed as the oration between Pugno's client, towards increased public sup­ riage. of the Genesee Valley, Inc. Approximately 5000 copies of each issue are distributed pimp in the set-up of ACORN, Protect Marriage, and the lead­ port for equal marriage rights. Two organizations are during the first week of the month, some by as a model of journalistic ethics. ership of the Mormon and Cath­ For some a domestic partner­ working to advance marriage mail in a plain sealed envelope. The pub­ Andrew Breitbart, an O'Keefe olic Churches in the campaign ship is a completely acceptable rights in New York State. Both lication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles is not an employer, called him one of the to pass Prop 8. Jacobs' complaint way to recognize their relation­ have detailed information on indication of the sexual or affectional orien­ all-time "great journalists" and indicates that this collaboration ship. However for many other their websites, Marriage Equal­ tation of that person or the members of that said he deserved a Pulitzer. Faux couples it is not. Legally there organization. For further information, please dates back to at least 1998, and ity New York (meny.us) and write to The Empty Closet, 875 E. Main St., News' Bill O'Reilly declared may have violated state law. are major differences in the the Empire State Pride Agenda Rochester NY. 14605, call (585) 244-9030 O'Keefe deserved a "congressio­ The complaint refers to a legal definition and the rights (prideagenda.org). The ACLU or e-mail [email protected]. The Empty Closet is the official publi­ nal medal." report by (real) investigative jour­ and responsibility of two very has also been a leader national­ cation of the Gay Alliance of the Genesee However, most wingers nalist Robert Salladay, published different options. To say they ly and within New York State. Valley, Inc., as stated in the bylaws of that quickly distanced themselves are equal is simply not true. organization. Its purpose is to inform the at the independent California People who want civil unions Rochester gay community about local and when they heard that their hero, Watch journalism website, and Legal marriage immediately have that right but those who national gay-related news and events; to "a self-described investigative presenting evidence that Pugno defines a long list of rights and want marriage do not. Until provide a forum for ideas and creative work from the local gay community; to help pro­ journalist" (Associated Press), used public resources, including responsibilities not given by that day happens we need to mote leadership within the community, and had been arrested for trying to State Senate stationery, phone a domestic partnership agree­ continue to work for legal mar­ to be a part of a national network of lesbian tamper with the phones in the and fax lines, to solicit advice ments or a civil union which riage and nothing less. Until and gay publications that exchange ideas and seek to educate. New Orleans office of Demo­ from a Brigham Young Uni­ do not have the same legal cer­ that happens the Gay Alli­ Part of our purpose is to maintain a cratic Senator Mary Landrieu. versity law professor on how to tainty as marriage. The Gay ance will be here to provide middle position with respect to the entire community. We must be careful to present O'Keefe and three other conser­ write language for the "Knight Alliance regularly receives calls resources and support to those all viewpoints in a way that takes into con­ vative activists (two dressed as Initiative," a.k.a. Proposition 22. from members of the LGBT who are in need . • sideration the views of all - women, men, repairmen, one with a tiny cam­ In a letter dated Feb. 26, 1998, community with legal issues people of color, young and old, and those from various walks of life. era in his hardhat) were charged written on State Senate letter­ related to the lack of a legal The opinions of columnists, editorial writ­ with entering federal property head, Pugno asked how to word marriage option. Issues can New Library Hours ers and other contributing writers are their under false pretenses for the pur­ the initiative in a way that would include immigration of a part­ Sunday: 2-5pm own and do not necessarily reflect the col­ Monday: 6-8pm lective attitude of the Gay Alliance of the pose of committing a felony. win the most votes, a clear act of ner, second parent adoption, Genesee Valley or The Empty Closet. The Wednesday: 6-8pm Incidentally, an organiza­ campaign planning while work­ tax laws related to taxable Empty Closet shall not be liable for any loss Other times by appointment or expense that results from the publication tion that monitors hate groups ing for the taxpayers -- including health insurance benefits and only: [email protected] (whether correctly or incorrectly) or omis­ produced a photo of O'Keefe gay taxpayers . • other issues. Many are in need sion of an ad. In the event of non-payment, your account may be assigned to a collec­ tion agency or an attorney, and will be liable for the charges paid by us to such collection agency or attorney. .------.Read All About It! I Letters to the editor I - The opinions of columnists, editorial writers he Gay Alliance Library has over 5000 items and other contributing writers are their own I T available to browse. Checking out items is a benefit I and do not necessarily reflect the collective of membership. Become a member today, then stop in attitude of the Gay Alliance of the Genesee to see what's on the shelf. Valley or The Empty Closet. We will print let­ ters at the editor's discretion and on a space I Name I available basis. Only one letter by the same writer in a six-month period is allowed. We Address will not print personal attacks on individuals, I City/State/Zip I nor will we be a forum for ongoing disputes between individuals. We reserve the right Phone to edit for space and clarity. We will print I E:mail I anonymous letters if the name and phone number are provided to the Editor; confi­ I Membership levels: I dentiality will be respected. Submissions are $25-99 Advocate 0 $100-999 Champion due by the 15th of the month at: The Empty o Closet, 875 E. Main Street, Suite 500, Roch­ 0$1,000-4,999 Triangle Club 0 $5,000+ Stonewall I ester, NY 14605; e-mail: emptycloset@gagv. I enefits begin with a subscription to The Empty Closet - us. Online edition of EC available at www. gayalliance.org. I Bmailed to home or work, plus privileges at each level. I Phone us: 585244-8640 or mail to the Gay Alliance, , I , 875 E. Main Street, Suite 500, ROcheste ~ , NY 14605 I I 1OU' 'fi I 1b3n\{ · ,r~ w 6.lliance 3/! ~.1~pntMe"'" Ga@V AII-.____ ·ance' > . _------_ . ~of the getlesee valley MARCH 2010 • NUMBER 432 • GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • THE EMPTY CLOSET A 3

First, one of you will be designated as FROM PAGE ONE "Person 1" and the other will be "Person (31 Days from page 1) 2." Person 2 is asked how they are related to Person 1. There are 16 choices, but the are the result of partnering with organiza­ tions in the local health coalition." two that concern you are "husband or wife" and "unmarried partner." ImageOut will present a free screening of two films on March 25 at the Cinema This is the important part: You do not in the South Wedge. One film will be answer based on the actual legal status of LOCAL AND STATE "Swimming with Lesbians," the docu­ your relationship; you answer based on mentary about the Buffalo community's how you personally categorize your rela­ history, which was a big success at the tionship. If you are legally married, you ImageOut festival last fall, and the other will probably mark down "husband or Lance to speak on Bible The conference will feature speakers film is "Dare," a new full length feature. wife," though if you are in a civil union and workshops exploring diverse trans­ The MOCHA Center and the Gay or domestic partnership, yet you still feel and homosexuality gender experience, from trans-theory to married, then you should also mark "hus­ Alliance will partner to present a panel By Susan Jordan trans-practicalities. There will also be spe­ discussing transgender issues and access band or wife." If there is no legal recogni­ The extremist right loves to bash cial evening entertainment, area outings, to health care, featuring a panel of trans tion of your relationship where you live, queers with the Bible. But are they taking and pre-conference activities for those people. (See ad, pages A 10-11, and Cal­ but you still consider yourself married, it's statements out of context and using them who can come early. endar, page B 14, for details on all events.) also important that you mark "husband as political hate-propaganda? The event will be held at the Crowne or wife." AIDS Care will host a screening of H. Darrell Lance will give a talk as Plaza in the historic section of downtown "Diagnosing Difference" in their down­ If this box doesn't accurately rep­ part of the series "The Bible and LGBT Albany and will partner with the Capi­ stairs meeting room at 259 Monroe Ave. resent your relationship, you have the Experience: Beginning the Conversation" tal District LGBT Community Coun­ It's a one-hour documentary about how option of the "unmarried partner" box. If on Sunday, March 14, at St. Paul's Epis­ cil, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this sounds like a vague catch-all, that's diagnosing transgender as a "disorder" copal Church, East Ave. and Westminster just two weeks after the conference. The marginalizes trans people. A discussion because it is. The Guide to the American Rd., at the 4 p.m. Lenten Choral Even­ Council is developing several programs, following the film will include transgen­ Community Survey says, ''An unmarried song and 5 p.m. lecture and discussion. including several concerning trans-youth der people and trans-friendly local health­ partner, also known as a domestic partner, Lance will address "What the Bible and female to male trans people, and care providers. is a person who shares a close personal Says -- and Doesn't Say -- about Homo­ is also organizing many social activities relationship with Person 1." If this better Rated F, the sex-positive feminist sexuality." He is Professor Emeritus of (think picnics, restaurant tours and club group, will present three events: LGBT describes your relationship, than mark the Old Testament Interpretation at Colgate crawls). "unmarried partner" box. self defense, a session on making and Rochester Crozer Divinity School. (See For more information and to regis­ If you are not in a relationship, unfor­ safely using sex toys, and a session about Interview, page A 6.) ter, visit http://www.transeventsusa.org/ tunately there is no way for you to official­ chest and breast health specifically for His talk is sponsored by Christian empire I. women and people of transgender experi­ ly come out to the U.S. Government on Faith and LGBT Experience, a consor­ this census. However, there are still some ence. Community members will be invit­ tium of congregations who, with CRCDS, Quinn responds to NYC ed to make plaster casts of their chests and important steps that you need to take. offer community forums which articulate then paint them. The casts may be part The campaign to get a question on the some aspect of the welcoming and affirm­ hate crime charges 2020 Census that asks about sexual orien­ of a future art exhibit on chest and breast ing theology of the Christian tradition In September, Blake Hayes, Alec Bell health, Libey said. tation and gender identity is well under­ toward 19bt persons. and Danny Calvert were victims of a hate On March 8, Terri Schwartz and way. There are two simple actions you can For further information, visit cfle. crime in midtown Manhattan. They were Craig Durie will give a presentation and take right now to help make this happen. groupsite.com assaulted by violence and anti-gay slurs. discussion on gay men and anal health. One initiative is called Queer the Census, After an investigation by the NYPD's Kelly Clark of the Gay Alliance Com­ a project initiated by the National Gay & Pride Agenda forgoes Hate Crimes Task Force, that extended munity Safety Program and Tawa Pano Lesbian Task Force. The other campaign from New York to Virginia to the United Unity Fellowship Church, and the Minor­ is signing the Change.Org petition to urge E&J Day for grassroots Kingdom, a suspect was found: Air Force ity AIDS Committee, will collaborate U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke to efforts across state Staff Sergeant Benjamin Ford. Through on observance of the National Week of make sure that LG BT people are properly an agreement between the NYPD and the Prayer and Healing for AIDS. This will acknowledged in the 2020 Census . • For the first time in a number of years, take place on March 12 at a service and the Empire State Pride Agenda will not U.S. Air Force, he was charged in a mili­ panel presentation on the Black church hold the annual Equality & Justice Day tary court with three counts of assault and and LGBT people, hosted by Memorial in Albany. battery and one count of issuing a false AME Zion Church. E&J Day has been designed to bring statement (AF Form 1158), in violation There will also be a presentation on large numbers ofLGBT New Yorkers and of Article 107 of military code. His pun­ legal issues and health care, open to all allies from across the state to lobby legis­ ishment will include docked pay for the rural LGBT people, on March 31 at the lators on marriage equality, GENDA and month of September, a loss of a stripe and Dansville satellite office of AIDS Care, Dignity for All Students. In the past, the lowering of his rank. hosted by the Dansville men's social/sup­ Assembly didn't vote on all three bills, "This sentence shows that if you com­ port group. There are several such groups but now they do and the Pride Agenda mit a hate crime in New York City, you for rural gay men now and Allegra Anka expects this to continue. will be pursued, apprehended and pros­ of AIDS Care hopes to start a rural wom­ In the Senate, the organization feels ecuted," said Christine Quinn, Speaker en's group soon. that they have already built the support of the NYC Council. "I want to thank Erik Libey said, "The overall message needed to pass GENDA and Dignity, the NYPD's Hate Crimes Task Force from the coalition is that we want the once the bills go to the floor, so holding for working collaboratively on this case community to take this opportunity to E&J Day this year after the Dec. 2 vote with my office as well as with Air Force think about what it means to be LGBT on marriage "just doesn't make sense," the officials. I applaud the United States Air and healthy - not just getting tested but Pride Agenda says. Force for taking swift and appropriate all the things that promote spiritual and "Where our community really needs action on this case. emotional health too. We all need to to be now is not in Albany on one day "This crime was also notable because socialize in a positive way with others who Patrick Fisher speaks at the Black of the year, but on the streets in Sena­ of reports from the victims that NYPD HIVIAIDS Awareness Day event on tors' districts across the state throughout officers responding to the scene did not share our experiences. One challenge for Feb. 6. Photo: Ove Overmyer us is all the negative messages that we hear the year. The State Senate has grown appropriately recognize the seriousness all the time. We want to counter those (HIVIAIDS from page 1) accustomed to seeing us in Albany. What of the incident and failed to collect evi­ messages. A positive sense of self worth HIV/AIDS Awareness Day had its 10th they don't expect is to see us at shop­ dence." is crucial to our physical health. You can birthday. It was founded by five national ping centers, transportation hubs, Labor give people drugs or information and if organizations funded by the Centers for Day picnics and walking door-to-door in NYC to end transgender they don't think they are worth taking Disease Control and Prevention in 1999 their Districts talking to their constitu­ welfare discrimination care of, they won't use them. Until people to provide capacity building assistance to ents about our lives. This strategy is in care enough about themselves to take care Black communities and organizations. your face. It's grassroots organizing at its TransJustice of the Audre Lorde Proj­ of themselves, they won't be healthy!" • Many local organizations, from Buf­ best, and it's what we're asking you to do ect, Housing Works, Queers for Eco­ falo to Rochester, took part in the pro­ - and to support financially - in 2010 nomic Justice, and the Sylvia Rivera Law gram on Feb. 6, including the MOCHA so we can build the momentum to win." Project announced a victory for their Wel­ Center, the Gay Alliance, NYS Health fare Justice Campaign on Feb. 10. (Census from page 1) Department, Anthony L. Jordan Health Transgender conference On Dec. 23, 2009 -- after five years For this initiative, the U.S. Census Center, Action for a Better Community of organizing by Trans and Gender Non recruited and deployed nearly two dozen and AIDS Care. set for Albany in May Conforming communities -- the New Census Bureau Partnership Specialists Testing and active participation were The 2010 Empire Conference will run York City Human Resources Administra­ across the country specifically to work at the core of this initiative. Patrick Fish­ from Thursday through Saturday, May tion (HRA) passed a procedure to stop with LGBT community groups and lead­ er, University of Rochester Community 20-22, in Albany. (State/Local continues page 7) ers. These specialists worked with Che Recruiter for HIV Trials, gave an impas­ Ruddell-Tabisola, who was tapped by the sioned presentation telling attendees how U.S. Census to serve as national LGBT important it was for HIV negative people partnership leader and as the prima­ to volunteer for the clinical trials to help ry bridge between the LGBT-inspired find a vaccine. community campaign called Our Fami­ In the opening remarks of the pro­ lies Count (www.ourfamiliescount.org). gram, MOCHA Center's Stephan Clipper (Information from Witeck-Combs Com­ said it was especially important for those munications) who are sexually active to know their sta­ How to fill out the form tus and for those who are at high risk of If you are in a relationship and you contracting HIV to get connected to the live together, you have two choices when services and treatment available in our selecting boxes to check. community. • 4 A THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • NUMBER 432 • MARCH 2010

this unnecessary and counterproductive Mullen's remarks law, and we believe the Pentagon, like the Admiral Mullen made a strong state­ 26 other countries that have ended the ment of support for ending DADT and ban since 1993, can effectively conduct its made clear that he was taking leadership. Newsfr{Dnts review of the policy while Congress simul­ Senator Levin, committee chair, estab­ taneously works to dismantle it. lished that Adm. Mullen was under oath "We are encouraged by Secretary and obligated to give his personal opin­ Gates' announcement that, as a first step, ion, and that this was not an opinion he NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL the Department of Defense will no lon­ was ordered to give by the Commander in ger aggressively pursue disciplinary action Chief. Sen. McCaskill asked the impor­ against gay service members whose ori­ tant question: how can the Department LGBT health survey In addition to instances of discrimi­ entation is revealed against their will by of Defense make a balanced survey of the nation, respondents also reported a high third parties so that as few qualified and feelings of serving military personnel and shows bias in care degree of anticipation and belief that they patriotic Americans as possible are dis­ their families regarding DADT when gay "The results of this survey should would face discriminatory care. Over­ charged from the armed forces because of soldiers are under threat by DADT should shock the conscience of this nation and all, nine percent of LGB respondents are their sexual orientation. While the United they come forward and participate? make clear that the system is broken when concerned about being refused medical States is heavily engaged in two wars in "Mr. Chairman, speaking for myself it comes to health care for many lesbian, services when they need them and 20 per­ Iraq and Afghanistan, the U.S. military and myself only, it is my personal and pro­ gay, bisexual, and transgender people and cent of respondents living with HIV and needs every qualified man and woman it fessional belief that allowing homosexuals those living with HIY," said Beverly Til­ over half of transgender and gender-non­ can get, regardless of their sexual orienta­ to serve openly would be the right thing lery, Lambda Legal's Director of Com­ conforming respondents share this same tion." to do," Mullen said. "No matter how I munity Education and Advocacy and concern. Nearly half of LGB respondents Rep. Baldwin's statement look at the issue, I cannot escape being one of the authors of the report. "No one and respondents living with HIV and Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin troubled by the fact that we have in place should be turned away or face discrimina­ almost 90 percent of transgender respon­ (D-WI), Co-Chair of the Congressio­ a policy which forces young men and tion when they are sick or seeking medi­ dents believe there are not enough medi­ nal LGBT Equality Caucus, commented, women to lie about who they are in order cal care." cal personnel who are properly tramed to "President Obama has done the right to defend their fellow citizens. For me, it In spring 2009, Lambda Legal and care for them. These barriers to care may thing in calling for an end to the un­ comes down to integrity -- theirs as indi­ over 100 partner organizations distributed result in poorer health outcomes because American and discriminatory Don't Ask, viduals and ours as an institution. a survey to LGBT people and people liv­ of delays in diagnosis, treatment or pre­ Don't Tell policy. I thank Chairman "I also believe the great young men ing with HIV across the country. "When ventive measures. Levin for holding today's hearing and was and women of our military can and would Health Care Isn't Caring: Lambda Legal's Within the report, Lambda Legal pro­ pleased to hear Secretary of Defense Gates accommodate such a change," he contin­ Survey on Discrimination Against LGBT vides key recommendations for health and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of ued. "I never underestimate their ability People and People Living with HIV" is care institutions, government, individu­ Staff, Admiral Mullen, clearly state their to adapt." based on responses from approximately als, and organizations to combat these support for ending the policy that pre­ Mullen went on to acknowledge that 5,000 people and reveals the experiences issues. Lambda recommends comprehen­ vents gay men and lesbians from serving he does "not know this for a fact, nor do I of a diverse cross section of members of sive cultural competency, inclusive poli­ openly in the military. know for a fact how we would best make the LGBT and HIV communities all over cies, research and training for medical "Since 1997, our armed forces have such a major policy change in a time of the country. personnel, stronger laws, as well as advo­ forced out nearly 11,000 dedicated, two wars. The survey included questions about cacy and community education. skilled, patriotic service members solely "That there will be some disruption the following types of discrimination in For the full report and the list of part­ on the basis of their sexual orientation. At in the force I cannot deny," he contin­ care: being refused needed care; health ners in Lambda Legal's national Health a time when we need them most, we have ued. "That there will be legal, social and care professionals refusing to touch Care Fairness Campaign, visit www. lost trained Arabic linguists and other perhaps even infrastructure changes to be patients or using excessive precautions; lambdalegal.org/health-care-report. specialists, putting all of our troops and made certainly seem plausible. We would health care professionals using harsh or our national security at greater risk. It is all like to have a better handle on these abusive language; being blamed for one's Gates, Mullen call for an high time the U.S. catch up with many types of concerns. And that is what our health status; or health care professionals of our allies, including some fighting with review will offer." being physically rough or abusive. end to DADT policy us in Afghanistan, by ending Don't Ask, SLDN statement According to the results, almost 56 The Congressional hearing on "Don't Don't Tell. These allies have welcomed "We strongly applaud Sec. Gates sup­ percent of lesbian, gay or bisexual (LGB) Ask Don't Tell" opened on Feb. 2 with the openly gay and lesbian service members porting the President's view that DADT respondents had at least one of these Secretary of Defense and the Joint Chief into their ranks with no loss of morale, needs to go," said the Servicemembers experiences; 70 percent of transgender of Staffs Chairman declaring that it is unit cohesion, or other adverse effect. Legal Defense Network (SLDN). "It's a and gender-nonconforming respondents time to end the policy of discrimination Certainly we can do the same. matter of when and how, he said, not if. had one or more of these experiences; against LG BT military personnel. "I hope today's hearing marks the We also strongly applaud Chairman Mul­ and nearly 63 percent of respondents liv­ Lawrence]. Korb and Winnie Stachel­ first step toward expeditiously ending the len who unambiguously personally sup­ ing with HIV experienced one or more berg of the Center for American Progress Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy. I look for­ ported gays and lesbians serving openly. of these types of discrimination in health commented on Feb. 2, "Today Secretary ward to the results of the Department of The top military brass of the United care. of Defense Robert Gates and Joint Chiefs Defense (DOD) 45-day review of policy States just laid out a roadmap for full The report found that not only did of Staff Chairman Michael Mullen sig­ to assess what can be done immediately. repeal. sexual orientation or serostatus affect the naled to the Senate Armed Services Com­ However, I believe an implementation "We also welcome the new direction respondents' access to quality health care, mittee and to the nation that the Obama study can occur in a much shorter time coming out of the Pentagon over the next but transgender or gender-nonconforming administration and the leadership of our frame than the 11 months that is cur­ 45 days. The direction seems to be a focus respondents faced discrimination two to nation's armed forces are committed to rently being proposed. Secretary Gates on reducing DADT discharges and has three times more frequently than lesbian, repealing Don't Ask, Don't Tell." testified, 'We can only take this process so adopted or is considering adopting six of gay or bisexual respondents. "In their historic testimony, they far, as the ultimate decision rests with you, SLDN's regulatory changes we provided In nearly every category, a higher pro­ underscored the importance of taking a the Congress.' Secretary Gates is correct the Department of Defense last summer. portion of respondents who are people of deliberate and comprehensive approach to and I will continue my strong efforts to "Top military officials also announced color and/or low-income reported expe­ the implementation of such an action that pass the Military Readiness Enhancement today they wanted to study the issue for a riencing discriminatory and substandard could take up to one year. Act (H.R. 1283) to eliminate discrimina­ year or longer. Like Sen. Udall (D-Colo.), care. Close to 33 percent of low-income "While it is critically important that tion on the basis of sexual orientation in we think a one-year study is far too long transgender and gender-nonconform­ we get the implementation of a Don't our military. and unnecessary and this process must ing respondents reported being refused Ask, Don't Tell repeal right, we at the "It's time for Congress to act," Bald­ have finality. SLDN would support a rea­ care because of their gender identity and Center for American Progress believe it is win said. "Every day this policy remains sonable implementation and transition almost a quarter of low-income respon­ also important that we not unnecessarily in place, it does further damage to indi­ period if the Military Readiness Enhance­ dents living with HIV reported being delay repeal of this law. The Center has viduals, to our armed forces, and to our ment Act -- Rep. Patrick Murphy's legis­ denied care. been a consistent advocate of repealing national security." lation that repeals the law and replaces it

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Most insurances accepted. Financial assistance may be available. MARCH 2010 • NUMBER 432 • GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • THE EMPTY CLOSET A 5 with a policy of nondiscrimination -- was plary young men and women who wanted cal for Black AIDS leaders to cooperate having the courage to confront those simultaneously moving through Congress to serve. to ensure that there are venues for us to responsible for the heinous anti-gay bill this year and the President signed the bill "We are pleased that the White House address HIV/AIDS issues from a uniquely in Uganda," said Wayne Besen, Executive into law this year. has recognized the urgency, complexity Black point of view." Director of Truth Wins Out. "We hope ''All studies, including the decisive and seriousness of this issue and is engag­ that the President's laudable stand makes 1993 RAND study commissioned by the ing with the military and Congress to Obama: Uganda anti-gay it clear to Family members in the Unit­ defense department, show that openly gay end this failed policy. Yesterday's Senate ed States and Uganda that the world is service members do not have an adverse Armed Services Committee hearing was bill is "odious" watching. Religion can no longer be used impact on unit cohesion, recruitment, a crucial step in that process. We wel­ On Feb. 4, President Barack Obama to justify bigotry, intolerance and persecu­ retention, or readiness. Service members come the announcement that the mili­ and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton tion anywhere on the face of the earth." will be fired almost daily while the study tary will review practices and policies spoke out against the pending anti-homo­ Besen is the coordinator of The Amer­ is going on. with the goal of allowing gay and lesbian sexuality bill in Uganda at the 58th ican Prayer Hour, which is an alternative "Some during the hearing today tried members to serve openly. That process National Prayer Breakfast in Washington to the National Prayer Breakfast. fif­ to claim DADT is working and is success­ is essential. But we urge caution that the D.C. teen national organizations launched the ful. It hasn't been working for 16 years. review process not be allowed to continue Hosted by conservative members of American Prayer Hour to shine a spotlight Nearly a quarter of Iraq and Afghanistan indefinitely; rather, a reasonable and firm Congress and sponsored by the Fellow­ on what TWO called The Family's nefari­ veterans say they know who is gay and timetable should be established and leg­ ship Foundation, otherwise known as The ous role in Uganda in the week of their who is not. This means gay and straight islation introduced without delay in the Family, a coalition of rightwing Congress annual National Prayer Breakfast. troops are talking about it. Having a law Senate to finally invalidate the Don't Ask members who have encouraged Uganda to "The safe course would have been on the books that fires 300+ talented Don't Tell law. target gays, the breakfast was attended by for President Obama to remain silent," linguists and medics, at a time of two "We are heartened that 187 mem­ foreign leaders, U.S. government officials said TWO's Besen. "Instead, he walked wars when all manpower is needed, is bers of the House of Representatives have and invited guests. The breakfast has been into The Family's house and held them un-American, and practically speaking, co-sponsored The Military Readiness attended by every president since Presi­ accountable for their actions in Uganda. It makes no sense, not to mention the cost Enhancement Act, which would repeal dent Eisenhower. was a huge victory for human rights and to the taxpayer of kicking out qualified Don't Ask Don't Tell, and we urge the During his address, President Obama the president's actions were courageous men and women. swift passage and enactment of this leg­ stated that it is unconscionable, at home and honorable." "SLDN renews our call for Congress islation. The Senate must introduce com­ or abroad, to target lesbians and gays for Congress acts against the bill to include repeal in the defense authori­ panion legislation with alacrity." who they are. Moreover, he described the U.S. Senators Russ Feingold (D-WI), zation bill, which continues to be drafted Gen. Powell changes position Ugandan anti-homosexuality bill as "odi­ Tom Coburn (R-OK), Ben Cardin and will not be finalized until late spring. General Colin Powell, the former ous." Secretary Clinton stated that she has (D-MD) and Susan Collins (R-ME) have The overwhelming majority of the public, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff spoken to President Museveni of Uganda introduced a resolution calling on mem­ including 61 percent of weekly churchgo­ during the 1990s, who supported the about the despicable nature of the pend­ bers of the Ugandan Parliament to reject ers according to Gallup, is with the Presi­ law's passage back in 1993, changed his ing legislation. In addition, she assured the so-called ''Anti-Homosexuality Bill." dent and the 187 members of the House position in a statement sent out Feb. breakfast attendees that her Department In addition to condemning the pro­ of Representatives who have cosponsored 4, saying, "attitudes and circumstances will continue to address international posed legislation in Uganda, the bipar­ Rep. Murphy's bill." have changed". In voicing his support for human rights violations of lesbians and tisan resolution also urges all countries National Black Justice Coalition the law's repeal, Gen. Powell threw his gays. around the world to reject and repeal sim­ statement full support behind "the new approach What is The Family? ilar laws that criminalize homosexuality, The National Black Justice Coalition presented to the Senate Armed Services The Family finances and gives techni­ and encourages the United States Depart­ (NBJC) applauded the recommendation. Committee this week by Secretary of cal support and training to ultra-conser­ ment of State to closely monitor human "Tens of thousands of African Ameri­ Defense Gates and Admiral Mullen." vative political and faith leaders around rights abuses that occur because of sexual cans have had their lives turned upside the globe with a goal of spreading an orientation. down by this misguided policy," noted Black AIDS Conference anti-LGBT message worldwide. Work of There are laws on the books in nations NBJC Executive Director Sharon J. Lett­ The Family is directly tied to the dra­ around the world criminalizing homo­ man. "We implore the military leader­ cancelled; no funding conian anti-homosexuality bill in Ugan­ sexuality. In several countries, including ship reviewing how to dismantle 'Don't Although AIDS is devastating the da. In fact, the sponsor of the Ugandan Iran, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia and Sudan, Ask, Don't Tell' not to be distracted by Black community, the 2010 National bill, David Bahati, who has been called the penalty for homosexuality includes those who would prevent gays and lesbi­ Conference on African Americans and by Truth Wins Out "a key member of the death penalty. ans from serving their country honorably AIDS (NCAAA) has been cancelled due The Family," has previously attended the Howard L. Berman (D-CA), chair­ and openly." to inadequate funding. NCAAA is the National Prayer Breakfast and was once man of the House Foreign Affairs Com­ Pentagon data shows that African only nationwide conference on Black peo­ again invited this year - however, he did mittee, on Feb. 4 introduced a bipartisan American women in particular are dispro­ ple and HIV/AIDS. not attend. congressional resolution condemning the portionately affected by DADT, and have Historically, financial support has For information on The Family, see anti-gay legislation. been discharged under this policy at three been provided by pharmaceutical compa­ the book of that name by Jeff Sharlet. "The proposed Ugandan bill not only times the rate they serve in the military. nies. This year, only one company agreed Following the National Prayer Break­ threatens human rights, it also reverses so Religious Action Center statement to fund the event, TheBody.com reports. fast, an American Prayer Hour organized many of the gains that Uganda has made Mark Pelavin, Associate Director of "If (pharmaceutical companies) are by gay rights supporters took place in in the fight against HIV/AIDS. This the Religious Action Center, issued the going to expand their markets exponen­ around 20 cities across the nation. issue has united leaders of different politi­ following statement: tially, their corporate responsibility needs Obama's speech cal and religious views in Uganda and "The time is long past due for the to keep pace -- especially supporting U.S.­ In his speech, Obama said: worldwide in one common belief in the repeal of the military's Don't Ask, Don't based organizations in the market that "We may disagree about gay marriage, rights of all human beings regardless of Tell policy. To the detriment of our made all the profit possible," K. Mary but surely we can agree that it is uncon­ sexual orientation." nation's and the world's security, we have Hess, who founded and directed both the scionable to target gays and lesbians for More than three dozen members of allowed the discharge of crucial and quali­ NCAAA and the National Conference who they are -- whether it's here in the Congress joined Berman in introducing fied personnel solely because of their sexu­ on Latinos and AIDS (NCLA), told The­ United States or, as Hillary mentioned, the resolution (H. Res. 1064), includ­ al orientation. The 16-year-old Don't Ask Body.com. NCLA, which usually takes more extremely in odious laws that are ing Committee Ranking Republican Don't Tell policy, which was presented as place during the summer, is also being being proposed most recently in Uganda." Ileana Ros-Lehtinen; House Financial a compromise that would respect service postponed indefinitely. Truth Wins Out said the President's Services Committee Chairman Barney members' privacy and meet our military's ''At a time when Black people are words were particularly powerful given Frank (D-MA); Subcommittee on Africa needs, has instead forced gay and lesbi­ increasingly disproportionately impacted the setting of this breakfast, which is host­ and Global Health Chair Donald Payne an service members to live their lives in by HIV/AIDS, we need more opportuni­ ed by the fundamentalist group known as (D-NJ); Congressional Black Caucus secret, always at risk of losing their abil­ ties for Black AIDS-service providers to The Family. This secretive organization is Chair Barbara Lee (D-CA); and Tammy ity to serve our country. Conversely, our come together and share best practices," directly linked to the "Kill the Gays" bill Baldwin (D-WI), Co-Chair of the Con­ nation's military has lost the skills, devo­ says Phill Wilson, founder and president in Uganda. gressional LGBT Equality Caucus. tion and dedication of far too many exem- of the Black AIDS Institute. "It is criti- "We applaud President Obama for (Uganda continues page 8 ) SOFIA'S CUSTOM CARPENTRY

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conservative political purposes. DH: The basic reality is that the Bible is used to support opinions that have been arrived at on other grounds. I've often contended that a person who starts with Genesis and reads all the way through to H. Darrell Lance Revelation cannot become a fundamen­ By Susan Jordan talist, because you see things that require H. Darrell Lance, Professor Emeritus found to be totally irrelevant when sub­ explanation. of Old Testament Interpretation at Col­ jected to empirical analysis. They didn't Liberals do it as much as conserva­ gate Rochester Crozer Divinity School, pertain to homosexuality at all. tives. But it's a misrepresentation of what will give a talk on "What the Bible Says One example is the story of Sodom the Judeo-Christian tradition is all about. -- and Doesn't Say -- About Homosexual­ and Gomorrah. There have been vari­ "The Word became flesh " - not "the ity" on March 14, at St. Paul's Episcopal ous interpretations, but to me the most Word became text". The Word/communi­ Church, East Ave. and Westminster Rd. convincing is that it's a story of rape and cation/Logos between the divine and the The talk is part of the series "The anal penetration as a way of humiliat­ human is personified-not written down. Bible and LGBT Experience: Beginning ing strangers, foreigners, prisoners of war It in effect "dies" when written down H. Darrell Lance the Conversation". (See article, page A or trespassers. Phallic posts called herms because it becomes dated. The Body of Christ - the living church - is in human 3). Darrell Lance recently spoke with would be set up in front of houses or other guilty conscience on the gay issue but have The Empty Closet about his talk and what places as a way of warning, "If you break action and behavior - that is the presence of God. not yet done a lot of work on this. Christian Faith and LGBT Experience, into this house, or steal from this orchard, It is open to the public too, of course; a consortium of congregations, hopes to you will be raped." The confidence in written texts is misplaced because of context and by the we need to open up the interpretative achieve with their series of community This also indicates the deep connec­ process of Bible study to let 19bt people forums on welcoming and affirming the­ tion between homophobia and misogy­ blindness of interpreters today to their own prejudices. An example is George understand that they don't have to hate ology of the Christian tradition toward ny. Men still say, without knowing what themselves and God doesn't hate them. 19bt persons. they're saying, "Boy was I screwed." W. Bush defining marriage as "between a man and a woman." That is an inter­ But it is also for churches which have Lance's talk will precede an appear­ Which in effect means, "I was raped and not become "welcoming and affirming" ance in Rochester by New Hampshire's treated like a woman." pretation drawn from his own religious background, but ignores the fact that but are questioning homophobia. We're openly gay Bishop V. Gene Robinson, In Ezekiel, there is a passage on the calling it "putting a toe in the water" in who will speak here on April 29 at St. sins of Sodom. They were accused of cru­ marriage is a CIVIL institution. The Bible doesn't mention any "man and a woman" regard to these churches. We're starting Luke and St. Simon Cyrene Episcopal elty to strangers, idolatry, etc. but NOT of with analysis of the Bible and are giving Church ("Two-Saints"). having sex with men. definition of marriage. In fact it men­ tions all kinds of relationships, including resources for them to set up study groups Empty Closet: Can you talk about Each of the clobber passages is unique within their congregations . • some of the most common mispercep­ in its complexity. You can't deal with polygamy. That may have its basic roots tions that people have about what the them as a group - each deals with differ­ in Roman culture - Western monogamy replacing the Eastern tradition of polyg­ Bible says about homosexuality - and ent issues. For example, Leviticus. It deals Coming up in April ••• what it doesn't say? with purity issues. It's about maintaining amy. In Eastern cultures that didn't hap­ H. Darrell Lance: The most impor­ the purity of the Israelite nation, and say­ pen; Islam still allows four wives, like Old April 16-18: tant factor is that all reading, including ing not to imitate the "impure" ways of Testament patriarchs (Abraham, David, Temple Beth EI - Rabbi Stephen the Bible, is an act of interpretation; it the Canaanites and others. Solomon, etc.) who had multiple wives Greenberg will facilitate weekend depends on the knowledge, experience It goes back to the basic idea that two and concubines. of study and dialogue on Judaism and sexuality. and background of the interpreter. categories that are discrete should not be EC: So the "marriage is between a People often assume "the Bible was mixed. That's why it's forbidden to weave man and a woman" thing really refers April 29: written in Hebrew". In reality, we have two different fabrics together - or to plow to monogamy versus polygamy. New Hampshire's openly gay Bishop none of the original manuscripts of the a field with an ox and a donkey. It has to What does the Christian Faith and V. Gene Robinson will speak at St. Luke St. Simon Cyrene Church Old Testament, only oral traditions be two oxen or two donkeys. This goes LGBT Experience consortium hope to ("Two Saints"), 121 S. Fitzhugh St. passed on by rabbis. So when people talk back to the belief that God's original accomplish through its series of com­ about "the Bible," they mean "my favorite creation included specific categories that munity forums? See April's Empty Closet for English translation." Also, the New Tes­ should not be mixed. So the passive male . DH: What this event is designed for details! tament was written, or dictated, in Greek, partner is seen as mixing male and female 1S churches and congregations that have a the lingua franca of that day. qualities. The reality is that in some cases, as in People look to the Bible for proof of First Corinthians 6, there are Greek words opinions they've already arrived at. You that no one understands. One word there can use the Bible to prove anything wrong occurs for the first time in all of Greek or right. literature. Obviously words are defined by The Bible reflects the attitudes of the their context, and no one knows what was times. In Jesus's parable about a master in Paul 's mind. All of the letters he wrote going on a journey and giving his ser­ were dictated in Greek and all we have is vants talents (coins) - in Greek it says that copies of copies of copies. It's the same "Master gave three slaves three talents." problem as with the Old Testament. Jesus casually takes the example of slaves The mysterious word used by Paul has for granted. People, including Jews, com­ been translated as "homosexuality" - but monly had slaves in his time. Christians this leads to the next issue. The concept of had slaves. If they beat a slave to death, homosexuality as an identity did not arise they might be punished with something until the 19th century. So any translation like denial of communion for a period of that inserts the word "homosexuality" is time. It wasn't regarded as murder. QUALITY INSTALLATION &SERVICE suspect, because that concept didn't exist The Bible comes from its own time in those times. They are reading through and reflects the values of those times. a post-19th century vocabulary. During the 19th century in America, slave Oscar Wilde is arguably the first per­ owners quoted from the Bible to justify TRANE son in history to be labeled a "homosex­ slavery. Abolitionists replied, we don't care ual". People were just seen as behaving what the Bible says, slavery is wrong! It's Hard To Stop A Trone differently in different circumstances. Interpretive context influences the The idea of innate sexual identity did not understanding of the interpreters. Every • exist. individual has a different background FURNACE EC: So people were seen as "het­ and experience and no two people will see erosexuals", or rather just as people, something exactly the same way. There­ CLEAN & CHECK behaving in a socially-disapproved way, fore you get different interpretations of but not as being something called "a the Constitution by Supreme Court jus­ homosexual". tices ... DL: Yes. Another issue is that Paul in The interpretive process has to be a 00 Romans 1 talks about men and women dialogue between the documents and the "exchanging natural relations for unnat­ interpreters. Even in the early centuries :$10 OFP ural." This has been seen as implying of the Christian church, they were well ANY CLEAN &CHECK I homosexuality, but not necessarily. aware of the difficulty and complexity of EC: It could mean oral sex, anal sex interpreting scripture. With this coupon, one per customer. or whatever. Why have the discoveries As a Christian, I have a loyalty to the Feldman Heating & Cooling • 288-2050 of Biblical scholars not been passed on Bible - but not an uncritical loyalty. It's by church leaders to the mass of believ­ the documents where I go to find ground­ ers? ing in the Christian story, but I under­ DL: One reason is that Biblical schol­ stand that the Bible comes from its own • HUMIDIFIERS ' AIR CLEANERS ars have not done a very good job since milieu with its own cultural assumptions • WATER HEATERS • FURNACES • AIR CONDITIONERS the 18th century of interpreting ancient and blind spots. The early church went • BOILERS • STEAM • DUCT CLEANING • FIREPLACES sources... The "clobber texts" were not through a period of modification of the studied because scholars were afraid to gospels. The Gospel of John especially is challenge them - they might be suspected a theological interpretation of what the of being gay. Christ event meant; the gospels were not 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE 288-2050 Not until the 1950s did scholars begin intended as historical records. 1776 E. MAIN ST. ROCHESTER www.feldmanhtg.com to look at the clobber texts as being anti­ EC: The fundamentalists and evan­ homosexuality. Some of the texts were gelicals of today's right use the Bible for FOR OVER 95 YEARS, THE FELDMAN FAMILY HAS BEEN PROVIDING QUALITY, ENERGY SAVING HEATING AND COOLING MARCH 2010 • NUMBER 432 • GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • THE EMPTY CLOSET A 7

that people seem unable to let go of." LOCAL AND STATE While approval of the HRA procedure (Transgender continued from page 3) is a major win, it is only the beginning. Reina Gossett, of Queers for Eco­ rampant transphobic discrimination and nomic Justice states, "The approval of harassment in New York City's welfare this procedure is a major victory for system. Trans and Gender Non Conforming Transgender and Gender Non Con­ communities, however we still have far to forming people face extreme, abusive, go. In the past, similar city policies have unjust discrimination when trying to failed in the training phase using inad­ access government benefits in New York equate curriculum and trainers lacking City. Some transgender people are denied cultural competence. We need everyone's the ability to even apply for benefits and support to insure that all HRA employ­ told to come back when they" dress more ees are trained on the new procedure like a girl, or boy." and that our communities are central to Since 2005, Trans and Gender Non­ the development and implementation of Conforming (TGNC) communities in these trainings." New York City have been fighting back by urging HRA to address the wide­ spread transphobia, discrimination, and Van Capelle leaves post harassment that Trans and Gender Non­ at Pride Agenda Sunday, March 21' Noon ??? Conforming people in New York City face when accessing public assistance. The Boards of the Empire State Pride In 2005 HRA and a Citizen Advisory Agenda Foundation and the Empire State Transgender Sub Committee developed Pride Agenda, Inc. on Jan. 27 announced · "Tara Era" Progressive Pricing Best Practice Protocols for Serving Trans the resignation of Executive Director and Gender Non Conforming Clients Alan van Capelle. (the new procedure is based on this doc­ The Boards also announced that ument). Unfortunately, these protocols Managing Director of Operations Joe sat on the shelf for years and were never Tarver is serving as the Interim Execu­ implemented nor adopted by HRA. tive Director while a search takes place •KARAOKE· Jane Corbett, Executive Deputy Com­ for the Pride Agenda's next Executive missioner of HRA and Kavita Pawria, Director. HRA Director of Office of Refugee and Alan van Capelle has accepted the Immigrant Affairs have been working position of Deputy Comptroller for along side community groups for the External Affairs with the Office of the Prizes •Giveaways last two years to develop a HRA proce­ New York City Comptroller. For more dure on serving Trans and Gender Non information, see the Empty Closet News Conforming communities. On Dec. 23, page at www.gayalliance.org. · Chef Rocky at The Grill HRA Commissioner Robert Doar finally approved the new procedure. NTID to host Deaf LGBT HRA Executive Deputy Commis­ Serving Burgers, Hots &His Homemade Chili sioner Jane Corbett stated, ''After much Youth Colorfest 2010 cooperation both within the agency and National Technical Institute of the A portion of the proceeds to benefit • AIDS CARE with community leaders outside ofHRA, Deaf (NTID) at Rochester Institute of lhtCtnttr for PositiV1! Uving the procedure was finalized and distrib­ Technology (RIT) will host the third uted to staff last December. We expect annual Deaf LGBT Youth Colorfest, that this reinforcement of City rules will better known as Colorfest 2010, on 153 Liberty Pole Way @ Abilene Bar &Lounge improve our customer service." March 26-28. According to Mya Vazquez, of Tran­ Spearheading the event are Kriston • 585-232-3230 • sJustice of the Audre Lorde Project, "Due Pumphrey and Geo Kartheiser, both to wide spread prejudice in order to sur­ graduates of RIT. In 2008, Pumphrey vive we're forced to apply for public ben­ had a vision of reaching out to Deaf efits, yet when we go to welfare centers, LGBT youth to transform students into we're harassed, jeered at, and faced with leaders of tomorrow, which led to the discrimination because of our gender inception of Colorfest, an annual event identities and/or expression." She states designed to provide Deaf LGBT youth & that, "The 'don't ask, don't tell cam­ with opportunities to flourish, network, ~iiii.ir HEATING paign' has taken up so much national and learn beneficial skills within a col­ 663-2940 attention and resources, yet the issues lege setting. PLUMBING. HEATING. HYDRO RUSHING. SEWER CAMERA WORI of daily survival that Trans and Gender An estimated 250 Deaf LGBT youth Owner owned and operated - Aval/aOle 24 hours 7 days a week Loya" OOpeooa0l8, In business ",nee 1977 Non Conforming People of Color deal are projected to participate. This year's ResKJen&a1 and Commercia' - Plumbing tlcensed 11304 with go unnoticed." fest will include an opening ceremo­ Tracy Bumpus of Housing Works ny, workshops, evening social, perform­ states, "This procedure is important ing arts, and much more. Hearing and because the greatest fundamental straight allies are welcome. human right is to be free to love and Further information regarding event live as our minds and hearts guide us. registration, volunteer opportunities or ______Veterinary Hospital But for Trans and Gender Non Con­ sponsorship can be found by visiting forming people what is the value of www.colorfest2010.com . • Andy Fleming, DVM freedom if we are afraid to seek the Aida Aponte-Lann, DVM life sustaining services offered by HRA because we are discriminated against, New Library Hours 1311 Marsh Road Sunday: 2-5pm • Monday: 6-8pm made fun of and made to feel less than Wednesday: 6-8pm Pittsford, NY 14534 human. Hopefully this procedure will Other times by appointment only: (585) 248-9590 change the outdated ways of thinking [email protected]

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all along -- that transition related care is NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL absolutely necessary health care for the (Uganda continued from page 5) wellbeing of many transgender people," Rightwing spokesman defends said Mara Keisling, the Executive Direc­ Youll death penalty for gays tor of the National Center for Trans­ o./); gender Equality (NCTE). "Being able Rightwing activist Cliff Kincaid ~ to deduct a portion of costly medical claimed the bill was designed to "save treatments will make it more affordable lives by discouraging homosexual prac­ for transgender people to follow through tices which spread disease and death" and with the care their doctors prescribe. For that the much-publicized death penalty the IRS to treat transgender people and provision in the bill is for "deliberately non-transgender people differently was spreading AIDS and engaging in homo­ discrimination, plain and simple, and sexual behavior that threatens children now that has ended." and society." The court's decision does not mean Gay commentators on pamshouse­ that all medical treatments and proce­ blend.com asked whether Kincaid would dures associated with gender transition support the execution of heterosexuals will be tax-deductible. who engage in unsafe sex or who engage in pedophilia as well, since AIDS in Africa is mostly spread through hetero­ Hawaii rejects civil sexual sex. unions; gays to challenge in court Tax court rules trans Equality Hawaii, the state's largest woman's medical lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender expenses necessary, not (LG BT) civil rights organization, and just "cosmetic" the Human Rights Campaign on Jan. 29 denounced the Hawaii State House for In a closely-watched case, the United failing to take up and pass HB 444 SD1, For all vour accounting needs: States Tax Court overwhelmingly ruled the state Civil Unions bill. on Feb. 2 in O'Donnabhain v. Com­ The bill would have provided that the UCallthe Gav CPA" missioner of Internal Revenue that a equal rights and responsibilities of mar­ transgender woman's medical expenses ried couples in Hawaii be afforded to eI Full service income tax preparation including electronic filing for hormone therapy and sex reassign­ thousands of non-married couples in the ment surgery were medically necessary state. The House voted by voice vote to eI All other states available (that have an income tax) and therefore tax-deductible under Fed­ postpone the bill indefinitely, effectively eI Corporation, Trust and Partnership returns erallaw. killing the bill for the session. After considering extensive medical On Feb. 1, Lambda Legal and the eI Available year-round for tax questions evidence and testimony from leading American Civil Liberties Union of medical experts, the court rejected an Hawai'i Foundation (ACLU) announced eI Year-end planning for the lowest legal tax interpretation of the law that would con­ they are planning legal action against sider transgender people's medical treat­ the state of Hawai'i following the Leg­ Mr. Jean Thibodeau, CPA ment different from all other medically islature's failure to enact a law providing (Certified Public Accountant) necessary treatment recommended by broad legal rights and duties to the state's major medical and psychological orga­ lesbian and gay couples. 31 Putting Green Lane nizations. "Enough is enough. Infinite patience Penfield, NY 14526 "Finally, we have recognition from in the face of discrimination is irrespon­ the courts of what transgender people sible," said Jennifer C. Pizer, Marriage [585J 586-6160 by appointment only, please and our medical providers have known Project Director for Lambda Legal.

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co _. CD \\\ uCD _. CD ..c., , iiiiiiiiiiiiii _ • E ~ns for Ga /Bisexual MenUI .....0 = .-....., "D OCHA c ~ co C st. IMon & Thur 9:30a-3:30p 2pm 107 LlJerty Pde W(If _ftS .... ca Tue & 'Wed 8:3.oa-3:3.op :-Q co ::::s ~ T"" ~ Fn 8.30a 11 .30a, ::::sC") ftS ~ "C o ao.. ..(J CD CD !lit to qui t smo:king Know your insurance options >'2... C 0 ~ca ! ~ ao.. CD co CD >. I Mo,nIh'ly I- CD - ;: .e &:. "CT"" ...... SC") -ftS til:: CD ia~~,orking .- ao.. J! ~ ::::s .c Join uS for this community l! 0 CD worshilp service & pane ~ • .c I • c RaB!n~ (including members of Tawa • ,0(1 "ca Pano) as LGBT people of ~ >. CD U. & communities of faith address CD ftS a. their shared fight against HIV C)"C •> in our community. C.l! ... - CD .-... f.) ....0 u. JOUI faaily heal tb IListoty Learn about HPV .-u ns CD •• CD CD .t:. '" >< .Q- .-til, CD 0 .- ... mill- In ...::::s -> I .c a. 0 o ...... 0 .a , ~ a. ca .- (i.e tn C .. -....., ! .sCi • a E= c CD CD oJ: > E E .- .... CD C 0 ~ ...•- CD ..... u EMP IRE STATE • I , "Cao.. cal- PRIDE GENDA ~I! CDrc c· at!) . out to your provider Use hormo,nes cancer-conSC10llS• - 'a , -I

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~ochester Victory Allianoe Huther-Doyle, MoCHA Center Monroe Co. Dept. of Health, NY State Dept. of Health,. & Planned! Parenthood. 12 A THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY. NUMBER 432 • MARCH 2010

Please contact us for ASL interpretation at least 14 days before class date: [email protected]

Welcome to Pride 2010 Corner! Inquiring minds want This is where you can learn about the progress in planning for Pride to know••• 2010. We want you to know what is happening, and we want you to InOueery is an easy way share this information with all those you love - let's get our straight pals for LGBT and allied community members to learn about a involved too! wide variety of things together. All sessions will be part social, part educational, and LGBT to the core. Mark your Calendars! Upcoming sessions include: • Volleyball Skills with LGBT Flare, • Understand­ ing Human Sexuality, • Body Image for LGBT Community, • Trans-Inclusive Lan­ Saturday, July 10: .... Gay Day at Seabreeze, 11am-4pm guage, Faith and LGBT Issues and more. Sunday, July 11: ...... Rainbow Flag Raising at City Hall See the full list at www.GayAlliance.org Monday, July 12: ...... youth PRIDE Dance look for InOueery under the Education Tab. Friday, July 16: ...... PRIDE Kick-Off at the Strathallan Hotel Currently most sessions are free, Saturday, July 17: ..... PRIDE Parade & Festival, but some classes may have special (same locations as last year) fees for tickets or supplies. Sunday, July 18: ...... PRIDE Picnic, Genesee Valley Park, 1-7pm Pride in March: Sunday, March 28, 4-7pm. Monte Carlo Style Casino Tea at Nasty D's. A fund-raiser to support PRIDE! Thanks to The Dealers and Nasty D's. Pride in April: Sunday, April 18, a fun and "fashionable" fund-raising event that you will not want to miss! Attendees at this event will learn the PRIDE 2010 Theme, and the Talent providing the entertainment at the Festival.

Attend PRIDE 2010 meetings if you have ideas and/or want to get involved. April 20, May 18, June 22 in the Gay Alliance Youth Center, 6pm.

If you enjoyed last year's PRIDE events, you, your friends and family will love to attend all the events this year!

We hope to see you around town,

PRIDE.fully,

PRIDE 2010 Co-Chairs:

Carrie Vernon and Michael J. Hardy

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March History Corner MASS TIMES This month History Corner focuses Sat: 4pm - Sun: 9 & llam on one of the most influential women in Weekdays: 12:10pm American History, Susan B. Anthony. XIX Amendment to the u.s. Con­ stitution (The proposed amendment was sent to the states June 4, 1919, by the Sus an SanF ilippo, C.S.W. Sixty-sixth Congress. It was ratified Aug. 234-3561 18, 1920.) Counseling & Psychoth e r apy The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or - 1170' cal1 't lift beJair? abridged by the United States or by any - 1J I cbange, Ill/II '''0' partner? State on account of sex. - Wbat tifftC! does nry past bave on me? Congress shall have power to enforce - W'}jal can 1 do about nO' JutJlre? this article by appropriate legislation. Individual a nd c o u p les t h e r apy (sliding fee scale) 1837: Young teacher Susan B. Antho­ 500 Helendale Road , Suite 155, Rochest er N.Y. 14 609 ny asked for equal pay for women teach­ ers. July 19-20, 1848: Woman's Rights TO STAND ON Convention held in Seneca Falls, New York. Month is to increase consciousness and 1869: National Woman Suffrage knowledge of women's history: to take Kavod Ha'briot Association founded primarily by Susan one month of the year to remember the B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. contributions of notable and ordinary 1872: Campaign was initiated by women, in hopes that the day will soon Respect for Human Dignity Susan B. Anthony to encourage women come when it is impossible to teach or to register to vote and then vote, using learn history without remembering these the Fourteenth Amendment as justifica­ contributions. Help us identify Vickie tion. Cup honorees for years not given and November 5, 1872: Susan B. Antho­ to identify unknown and unrecognized ny and others attempted to vote; some, women leaders in Rochester glbt orga­ Temple Beth David including Anthony, are arrested. nizations and agencies. June 1873: Susan B. Anthony was We are also looking for names of past A Conservative, Egalitarian, Haimish Synagogue. tried for "illegally" voting. board members, and any organizational January 10, 1878: The ''Anthony records of GLBT organizations, agencies, Amendment" to extend the vote to and groups from 1968 - 1980. Contact women was introduced into the United our Archival Consultant, Nicole Men­ States Congress. archem, at 244-8640x32 or by email: 3200 St. Pau l Blvd. 585/266-3223 1902: Elizabeth Cady Stanton died. [email protected] or visit our 1906: Susan B. Anthony died. website www.shoulderstostandon.org for http://templebethdavid .uscjhosLnet May 4, 1912: Women marched up more info. Fifth Avenue in New York City, demand­ ing the vote. Vickie Cup Honorees May 4, 1913: About 5,000 paraded 1979 Mary Lou Wells for woman suffrage up Pennsylvania Ave­ 1980 Sue Cowell nue in Washington, DC. 1981 Elaine Smith January 10, 1918: House of Represen­ 1982 RosemaryCahill tatives passed the Anthony Amendment 1983 Pauline Geraullo HUTHER-DOYLE but the Senate failed to pass it. 1984 Ginny Shear, Sue Slate May 21, 1919: United States House 1985 Nilda Hernandez of Representatives passed the Anthony 1986 Jackie Nudd HELPING YOU PUT THE PIECES BACK Amendment again. 1987 Barb Debes June 4, 1919: United States Senate 1988 Robin Freer TOGETHER approved the Anthony Amendment. 1989 Chic Parker August 18, 1920: Tennessee legisla­ 1991 Evelyn Bailey ture ratified the Anthony Amendment by 1992 Susan Jordan a single vote, giving the Amendment the 1994 Paula Silverstrone necessary states for ratification. 1996 Adrienne Kllc August 24, 1920: Tennessee governor 1997 Susan Soleil signed the Anthony Amendment. 1998 Emily Jones August 26, 1920: United States Secre­ 2000 Nancy Casey tary of State signed the Anthony Amend­ 2009 Judy Cranston ment into law. Past Gay Alliance Women Presidents 1976 Mary Lou Welz (Co-President) Shoulders To Stand On: 1977 Pat Collins March is Women's 1978 Marge David (Co-President) 1979 Sue Cowell (Co-President) History Month 1980 Mary Lou Welz (Co-President) Shoulders To Stand on is proud to rec­ 1981 Elaine Smith (Co-President) NOW OFFERING SPECIALIZED CHEMICAL ognize the women who were Vickie Cup 1982 Mary Lou Komarek Honorees and Past Presidents (or Co-Pres­ 1988 Autumn Craft (Co-President) DEPENDENCY TREATMENT TO idents) of the Gay Alliance. Vicki Cup 1989-90 Chic Parker THE GAY - LESBIAN - BISEXUAL Awards were begun by Arnie Pegish in 1990 Betty Dwyer COMMUNITY 1979 in honor of Vicki Russo. The award 1999 - 2000 Kim Brumber is given to a woman who has made a sig­ 2001 Shirley Bowen nificant contribution to the Rochester gay 2003 Ann Young SAFE AND CARING ENVIRONMENT community. These are only a few of the 2005 Emily Jones/Kathryn Rivers shoulders of the women in our commu­ 2006 Kathryn Rivers EXCLUSIVE GLB TREATMENT GROUP nity that we stand on. 2007 Sue Cowell (Co-President) The purpose of Women's History Thank You ! SENSITIVE TO GLB ISSUES

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the census will retain that answer, but not and will not live openly. When we • 19111 1 - 0-... 9 .~, .~, ~ when results are released, those people are hidden under these false pretenses = ...&\\ \... - could be counted as unmarried part- and general descriptions on census forms ners. " and reports, it just makes us more invis­ Additionally, a same-sex couple with ible and reinforces the status quo. kids will be listed as single parents -­ Acknowledgement means political even if they're living under the same power 2010 Census Update: roof. The simple acknowledgement of Identity Does Matter The u.s. Census has recruited and identifying individual gay people and deployed nearly two dozen Census gay households would inject some potent By Ove Overmyer Bureau Partnership Specialists across the political power into our 21st century There appears to be some relatively country specifically to work with LGBT policy-making. good news and some not so good news community groups and leaders. This The LGBT community has an oppor­ on the horizon for LGBT folk with sounds like a win-win situation for all, tunity here to stand up and be counted regard to the 2010 Census. but I'm not convinced that the survey in 2010. I applaud all of the collabora­ Robert Daniels Never before has there been so much language is inclusive enough to reflect tion between LGBT groups and the Cen­ outreach to gay folk. However, there is 585-467-6456 the reality of our lives. I think there is a sus Bureau. But in the final analysis, we also a strong possibility that many gay, general willingness to get it right, but the are very far from getting it right. lesbian, bisexual and transgender people Guaranteed execution lacks clarity and specificity. It is imperative that this occasion not will not be accurately counted this year. Clock Cleaning In a time when same-sex marriage is be wasted. This month, census packets In 2010, the u.s. Census Bureau will legal is some states, and another 18,000 and Repair not ask about sexual orientation nor, will be mailed to everyone in the coun­ unions are recognized in California, why try. If you care at all about our collective possibly, recognize gay marriages, civil can't we just spell it out on these forms? unions and domestic partnerships. It's future, make sure you and your loved Another issue that has surfaced is ones are counted in 2010 . • possible that married same-sex partners that DOMA does not apply to the cen­ with a child won't even be considered sus, but does apply to every federal "families." The disappearing act will be agency that uses census data to calculate courtesy of the federal government and funding streams and enforce equality. Russow C onsulting the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). According to demographer Gary Gates Every 10 years, the u.s. Census of UCLA School of Law, there's a "classic TARA RUSSOW. Ph.D. Bureau takes a snapshot of our popu­ Catch-22" at play -- the census is limited lation, determining how many people to addressing issues that are backed by CUNICAL PSY CHO L OGIST reside within the nation's borders, who federal tax dollars -- but good luck try­ 120 A1J ens Creek Road they are, and where they live. The results ing to get it for an identity group that help determine your representation in Rochester, N Y 14618 doesn't officially exist. (5 85) 442-4447 government, as well as how federal funds Why bother? www.R ussowConsulting.com are spent in your community on things Progressive activists and some straight like healthcare, roads, parks, housing, allies might be rolling their eyes and ask­ schools and public safety. ing, "Why do you care if your identity, We're counted but don't count relationship or family is officially count­ In June 2009, the u.s. Census ed -- aren't there bigger fish to fry right SANDYRELLA Bureau announced it would count same­ now?" CLEANING SERVICES sex married couples. However, technical Well, as far as I see it, no -- not in problems with current census software 2010. What is more important than Make your home or office may affect whether we are included in telling the federal government that you sparkle like a castle. the census as "married" or whether we exist? Why are my married gay friends Fully insured. Call for a free estimate today. will be listed as "unmarried partners." paying more federal taxes than their Sandy Jacques USA Today and PinkNews report, "If married heterosexual counterparts? (585) 787-2081 • Cell: (585) 752-4604 two people of the same sex identify as Frankly, I'm offended by it all. [email protected] husband and husband or wife and wife, Additionally, many LGBT people do Know For Them. Know For Yourself. Know For Sure. HIV and STD Testing AIDS Care Main Office 259 Monroe Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607 585-545-7200 www.acRochester.org HIV Testing Tuesdays and Thursdays: 9:00 am - 7:00 pm STD Testing for men who have sex with men (Syphilis, Gonorrhea & Chlamydia) Tuesdays and Thursdays: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

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Bill Clinton let us down with the "Don't received accommodations and awards ask Don't Tell" policy now over a decade from AIDS Rochester, ACHC and the later leaders in the armed forces, includ­ Black Men & Latino Men Health Cri­ ing Colin Powell, and the highest rank­ sis; delivered grant funding in the total a ing members of the armed services are amount of $175,000 over four years to rs advocating to allow openly Gay men and the Gay Alliance for their LG BT anti­ women to serve in the military. violence program; received the 2006 Gay Be proactive, not events? Did we treat the Democrats who We need to crawl before we can walk. Alliance Community Leader Award for reactive abstained or voted against the bill, such Joe Robach is in full support of Civil support of issues and delivery of resourc­ has David Gannt, in the same manner? Unions, which would allow most of rights es; secured $25,000 in grant funding for To the Editor: Being Gay, and working towards equal that those pushing for Gay Marriage are 2007 Image/Out Film Festival; supports Looking at the photos in last month's rights should not be a partisan. Those in asking for. Do we want to battle the reli­ civil unions, and other legal protections EC showing protestors outside of Joe our community have to reach out and gious right for the next thirty years as for all; hired Rob Byrnes (an openly/gay Robachs' office leads me to believe that inform both parties in a positive fash­ those in the abortion rights battle have man who served as his former Chief of some members of our community react­ ion. All Gays are not Democrats and all done? Or do we want to move in a posi­ Staff. ing out with emotion, verses being pro­ Democrats are not Gay Friendly. Just as tive direction? At the end of the day, Joe Robach as active to effect change. all Republicans are not homophobes. Per­ Before you pick up a sign and protest a straight/Republican has been a true I was also disappointed to hear that sonally I am an independent, and would Joe Robach's office here are a few of the friend of the LBGT community. As dis­ one perceived leader in our community like to think I am in independent thinker. things he has done for our community: appointed as many were at his vote, there wrote personally disparaging comments We as a community should not be swayed Voted for and supported all measures for are others who were more deserving of the on their facebook page in an attempt by a few who may have personal agendas equality in housing, employment, etc.; mistreatment he received. I for one have to lash out at Joe. What are you people which impact their way of thinking and voted for anti-bias related, anti-hate crime apologized for my peers who acted out of thinking? Do we take the right-wing their influence. bills; delivered resources and legislation emotion and personal agendas. Change religious right protestors seriously at our Many in our community thought that to assist with the aides epidemic; has will come over time, as it always does.

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Let's act responsively and hold all elected to action. We have been a major presence equality and justice for LGBTQ people. of a safe, respectful and supportive learn­ officials to the same standards and keep in Albany every spring for Equality & J us­ We have many workplaces that rate 100 ing environment. supporting those who support our com­ tice Day for as long as I have been orga­ percent on HRC's Corporate Equality It's been my privilege to have cultivat­ munity to increase the awareness of their nizing our annual lobby day. No region Index. Rochester's Pride at Work chapter ed so many friendships in my years work­ constituencies so our rights can finally can hold a candle to our corner of the state has led the charge in garnering active sup­ ing at the Gay Alliance, NYCLU and the become equal. when it comes to the dedication and pas­ port from WNY labor unions for the fair Pride Agenda. Having suffered rejection Sincerely, sion of our activists. Rochester is blessed and equal treatment ofLGBTQ workers. by most members of my immediate and Jeff Briggs with many natural born leaders, two of I also must give a shout out to our extended family and my faith community whom were honored this past January at many not-for-profit community partners: when I came out as a gay man some ten A letter to my the Pride Agenda's STAR Awards. the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley, the years ago, the precious relationships that I The NYS Supreme Court ruling (in Genesee Valley Chapter of the NYCLU, have forged during my decade of service community 2008) that New York's marriage recogni­ Planned Parenthood of the Rochester Syr­ to my community have come to constitute To the Editor: tion rule applied equally to legally mar­ acuse Region, The MoCHA Center (Buf­ my family of choice. My shelf life as a field organizer for ried same-sex spouses is a result of a court falo and Rochester), AIDS Care (formerly In my life, human connection and the Empire State Pride Agenda expired on case that was settled right here in Roches­ AIDS Rochester and ACHC) , RGMC, community are of the utmost importance. Feb. 11, 2010. Having worked so closely ter at the Appellate Division, Fourth Judi­ ImageOut and countless others who have How we treat one another and the way with so many members of our communi­ cial Department. The Martinez decision lent support and resources to the work that we go about our work, in my value ty over the past several years, I feel com­ has since served as a precedent for other of ending discrimination and prejudice system, take precedence over the achieve­ pelled to express my deep gratitude for all positive outcomes in court cases both in against LGBTQpeople. ment of any specific goal or end result. If the support and encouragement that I've and outside our state. Hopefully, this year we'll see our we compromise our integrity or the dig­ received from my community during my As I count my blessings, I would be labors come to fruition with the passage nity of others as a shortcut to reaching years of employment at the Pride Agenda. remiss if I didn't highlight the impressive of the Gender Expression Non-Discrimi­ our objectives, can we really take pride in I'm proud of how the Rochester com­ number of welcoming and affirming faith nation Act (GENDA). And while we may our accomplishments? It is my sincerest munity has consistently rallied to the call communities and clergy who champion not have won the marriage vote in 2009, hope that in all of my interactions with I know that time is on our side and that my "family", friends, former co-workers with perseverance we will have marriage and the community at large, that I have equality in NYS. The Gay Alliance and honored and uplifted you. Rochester GLSEN have already demon­ In the future I'm excited at the oppor­ strated that we can implement the action­ tunity to pursue new avenues of service to able components of the Dignity for All my community. I don't have any immedi­ Students Act (DASA) at low or no cost to ate plans to leave the area, so please stop our public schools. The training of teach­ me and say hello if you see me on the ers and staff that has been done within the street or in your favorite cafe'. Better yet, Jennifer L. Gravitz, Esq. Rochester City School District is a model give me a call (585-278-4190) or email Quality legal services provided with for the rest of the state. We need to keep me ([email protected]) and let me the pressure on our lawmakers until we know what you're up to! old fashioned care in the privacy of your home or office have a comprehensive anti-bullying law In Love & Community, passed and all students have the promise Todd A Plank Buying/Selling Real Estate Partnership and E tate Plan.ning Wills and Esta.te Settlement "IV/AIDS Planning Consumer Bankruptcy Uncontested Divorce Name Cbange Mi demeanor Offenses Traffie Violations OWl the Empty Closet 3349 Monroe Ave. Suite 344 Rochester, NY 14618 (585) 244-8295 CAN BE FOUND AT THESE FINE PLACES: AARON'S ALLEY • ABILENE • ABUNDANCE NATURAL FOOD STORE • ACTION FOR A BETTER COMMUNITY • AIDS CARE • AMF TERRACE GARDEN LANES • ANTHONY JORDAN HEALTH CENTER • A STEP APART • AVENUE PUB • BACHELOR FORUM • BORDERS BOOKS & MUSIC (HENRIETTA) • BOULDER COFFEE LOCATIONS • CANALTOWN COFFEE ROASTERS • CINEMA THEATRE • CLOVER LANES. DANIEL WARD SALON • DEPAUL MENTAL HEALTH • EASTMAN SCHOOL • EMPIRE STATE COLLEGE • EQUAL=GROUNDS • FAMILY MEDICINE (S, CLINTON AVE,) • FEDERATION OF SOCIAL WORKERS • FIRST UNITARIAN UTlandish CHURCH • GENESEE CO-OP • GENESEE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION • HUDSON VIDEO/NEWS • HIV/STD CLINIC (855 W, V· deoS, Gifts &Leatber MAIN) • IMAGEOUT FILM FESTIVAL OFFICE • INDUSTRIAL Where if'.C;]N -to be OUT VIDEO • IRONDEQUOIT LIBRARY • JAVA • LlTILE THEATRE • LOLLIPOP FARM (HUMANE SOCIETY) • MERCURY POSTER • METRO JUSTICE • MEX • MOCHA CENTER • MOTOR • Wes+em New York's Pre~ere GIfI &. lesbiqn '!.deo & Gif+ ~iore MUTHERS • MYSTIC MOON • NASTY D'S • OPEN ARMS MCC • OUTLANDISH • PARK AVENUE LAUNDROMAT • PLANNED PARENTHOOD • PLEASANT BUNZ CAFE • ROCHESTER PUBLIC LIBRARY (RUN DEL) • ROCHESTER SPA AND BODY CLUB • RECORD AR~HIVE (EAST AVE,) • SHOW WORLD VIDEO • SPIN CAFE • ST LUKE ST SIMON CHURCH • ST MARY'S CLINIC • STARRY NIGHTS • STATE STREET NEWS • SOUTH WEDGE BARBER SHOP • TAWA PANO UNITY FELLOWSHIP CHURCH • THE SPOT • TILT • UNITY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH • UTTER CLUTTER • VENTURES IRPT • VILLAGE GATE ENTRANCES • WORLD WIDE NEWS • WRITERS & BOOKS '" AND AT OTHER FINE PLACES, INCLUDING SOME THERAPISTS' OFFICES AND MOST AREA COLLEGES DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR, ev'ous yViewed DVDs IN BUFFALO: ADONI)'\S • CATHODE RAY • Q • UNDERGROUND • BUFFALO PRIDE CENTER IN SYRACUSE: LAVENDER INKWELL BOOKSTORE • SPARKY TOWN , RESTAURANT • HAIRANOIA • SUGAR PEARL • SYRACUSE CULTURAL WORKS I THANK YOU VERY MUCH! 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Outlandish Videos, Gifts & Leather 274 North Goodman Street (In the Village Gate) '@' Hours: Monday - Saturday 11 AM until 9 PM & Sundays Noon until 5 PM After-Hours VideolDVD Drop Box is Availablel L..-__ Phone: 585.760 .8383 • www.outlandish1.com • outlandish@frontiernelnet GaXf~m~.. r"!.~~ 18 A THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • NUMBER 432 • MARCH 2010

Gay Alliance Board President Tom Ferrarese.

APPRECIATION EVENT: The Gay Alliance held a Donor Appreciation event on Jan. 28 at the Strathallan. Above: Nino Vitale, Sean Van Hatten and Paul Allen. The event was sponsored by MetLife. Gay Alliance Development Director Brian Doran said, "It was an awful, snowy night, but tons of people came out to show their support. The evening was to have ended at 7:30, but people were still there at 8:30. Everyone had a good time." Photos by Laura McSpadden

Donna Pfahl (left) and Pat Scheg.

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Elaine Elkins, M.S. Psychotherapist 244... 4837 Individual & Relationship Counseling Now Open In Peri nton! Come Ol'h=.~nl YoLJi"Se-tn.Aja Nooo Ie- Co. Anxiety & Depression has brougnLl.11eir UfliquF.! urban Loneliness & Separation con I.e m jXll"3r"IJ asian cuiSine to Pet"'intclnl Conflict Resolution aja nOOdle cO, Communication Skills Sexual Abuse Recovery 42 PERINTO N H ILLS SHOPPING CE:NT E: R DINE I N OR TAKE OUT. CALL 377-7000 Drug & Alcohol Abuse ajo3 noodlt:- (0. ·s also locatt'.:::i 03.; 2682 ElIT'l\·,'()!).d fIve, Grief & Loss at th€- 12 cc rn~rs ill Brigt-to '"l. k'st fC'{1k tor rhG' Re(il l'ir'n inf]<;,' Photo: Laura McSpadden

Sue Morgan and Jenny Gaul with their daughters Chris (left) and Jake (right) won the Red Heart Katie and Eleanor at the Red Ball on Feb. 6. Sue Award for most romantic couple. All winners and Jenny received the Moulin Rouge Award for received a $20 gift certificate from Sugar Mountain best pair of dancers. Photo: Bess Watts Bake Shoppe (258 Alexander St.) Photo Bess Watts Aria (with her family) won the Cupid Award for most angelic features and attire. Photo: Bess Watts

The Ball was held at the Auditorium Center. Photo: Deanna Baker. Photo: Bess Watts Photo: Laura McSpadden Laura McSpadden

7:30pm - 8:30pm 111e Roohmter Lesbian &Ga yFilm &Video F~va] Information Cafe ImageOut will be hosting an informal information FREE SCREENINGS sharing forum in the newly ImageOut will join the Rochester LGBT renovated cafe space at Health Coal ition in celebrating New York State's the Cinema Theatre. LGBT Health Awareness Month (March 2010) Learn more about LGBT with a night of special screenings. Health Month participating Thursday, March 25 organizations. Screening at 6:00pm Like to volunteer with ImageOut? Short Film : 2009 1mageOut Award Winning Documentary: U-HAUL Rap Swimming With Lesbians All of our committees will be represented to answer questions you may have and help you find a place to lend your talents to our 18th Festival year.

r:rJ Screening at 8:30pm Interpreting Services 2009 Sundance Film Festival Feature Selection and Accessibility Dare Please use the relay service at 1-800-662-1220 to request interpreting services (for your reference the Image Out office phone number is 585-271-2640). Interpreting requests must be made by 5:00pm on Thu rsday, March 18. This event is wheelchair accessible.

For more information, please visit: www.imageout.org 20 A THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • NUMBER 432 • MARCH 2010

r pa& --- roch t rspa.com o n 24/7 SectionB ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT & COMMUNITY

Book Review: ated byartistlDJ Page Hodel for for her to find on her way to MONDAY HEARTS FOR her beloved partner Madalene work. Tragically, Madalene died MADALENE Rodriguez. Fifteen of the hearts, of ovarian cancer soon after they created while Madalene was still fell in love. Page continued cre­ By Susan Jordan alive, are reproduced in minia­ ating the hearts: "No Monday Monday Hearts for Madalene, ture, while 100 hearts created will there ever be/from now until by Page Hodel. NY: Stewart, after her death are shown full­ eternityfthat you don't have/a Tabori and Chang (Abrams), size in this beautifully-photo­ heart from me." 2009. 111 pp, hardbound. $16.95 graphed art book. Royalties will partially bene­ "When a person falls in love, Page constructed a heart every fit the Women's Cancer Resource the universe and everything in it Monday, from flowers, fruit, Center. come vividly alive." leaves, grass, candles, toys, sticks, Anyone who has lost a loved A heartbreakingly beau­ wire and all kinds of "ephemera one, or been in love, or just tiful book, Monday Hearts for of daily life," which she would wished to find someone to love, Madalene records 115 hearts cre- leave on Madalene's doorstep will find this book a treasure . •

Inside Rochester's Get lucky with ImageOut screens Vagina Monologues RGMC on March 20 three free films for Pandora and friend. Photos: Laura McSpadden By Laura McSpadden Get out your four-leafed clo­ Health Month It's early on a Saturday morn­ ver, because the Rochester Gay ImageOut, Upstate New Drag racing at Tilt: Monday fun ing. I am leaving my apartment Men's Chorus will present their York's longest running lesbian spring concert, "Getting Lucky," and entering the crispness of and gay film and video festival, By Laura McSpadden winter's chill, armed with a cup Monday nights in Rochester on March 20. will present three free movies in The Chorus says, "Explore are now more fun than you ever of coffee, my script and a whole partnership with the Rochester dared to dream they'd be, and bunch of excitement for what our unending quest for romance, LGBT Health Coalition. it's all for one simply delight­ lies ahead: I will be spending from first kiss to making love The hilarious U-Haul Rap, ful reason: the official the next several hours laugh­ last". The concert will be at the documentary Swimming Ru Paul's viewing parties at ing, crying and working hard Hochstein at 8 p.m. with Lesbians, and newcomer Drag Race Tilt, hosted by Rochester's own while rehearsing for my part in Tickets are available at Par­ Dare will be shown on Thurs­ kleigh, Outlandish, The Creator's drag-racing superstar, Pandora the upcoming Rochester per­ day, March 25, starting at 6 Boxx. formance of The Vagina Mono­ Hands and Equal=Grounds, or p.m. at the Cinema Theatre, 957 The evening starts at around logues. visit www.thrergmc.org, or call South Clinton Ave. These spe­ 8:30, give or take a few minutes The 2010 V-Day Roches­ 423-0650. cial screenings are free and open (they advertise that the doors ter benefit production will be The RGMC would also to the public. open at eight, but trust me, it held at the Hochstein School of like to invite everyone to their At 6 p.m.: U-Haul Rap, won't really happen until a bit Music and Dance on Saturday, ''Anything Goes" Spring Gala directed by Bob Koherr, starts later) and the viewing of that March 13; the performance will fundraising event, on May 2 at off the night of screenings with week's episode starts at nine. Pandora Boxx begin at 7 p.m. One Restaurant, 1 Ryan Alley, a tongue-in-cheek look at lesbian Try to get there before the show something inspired? Clapping The evening will fea­ from 4-8 p.m. Tickets: Individ­ love - and just what happens starts, so that you have plen­ abounds. The contestants' super­ ture performances by Cristina ual: $35, Couple: $50. Sponsor on a second date. Then comes ty of time to grab some free ultra-length artificial eyelashes Domingues (YNN anchor and Levels: Mezzanine: $250-$499; Swimming with Lesbians, the hors d'oeuvres, a drink (Absolut flapping uncontrollably in the reporter), Jean Carroll (President Dress Circle: $500-$999; 2009 Mary Elizabeth Knight and CEO of Rochester YWCA) drinks and bottle beers are only photographer's fan? The laugh­ Orchestra: $1000-$1499; Bene­ Award winner, a touching docu­ $2.50), and a seat. ter was resounding off the walls. and Shiera Coleman (Commu­ factor: $1500 and higher. Please mentary about the nascent gay Yes, I know... you could just After the episode, Pando­ nications Producer for the City RSVP by April 9. For more rights movement in Buffalo, by of Rochester). watch the show from the comfort ra has a little Q&A with the information please contact Todd Rochester-based director David (Vagina of your own living room, wear­ audience, providing answers continues page 2) L. Perkins at 585-473-1127. • B. Marshall. ing your most comfy around­ about her experience of being At 7:30 p.m. at Information the-house clothes and eating on the show (as well as witti­ Cafe, meet ImageOut commit­ last night's leftovers ... but why cisms, things she said that never tee members to learn about vol­ would you? should've gotten cut from the unteer opportunities and LGBT There is such incredible ener­ final episode and sardonically Health Month resources. gy at the official viewing par­ funny jokes). Finally, at 8:30, see Dare, an ties. A contestant wobbles or The evening also includes official full-length feature selec­ makes a questionable fashion performances by three Tilt-a­ tion from the 2009 Sundance choice? The gasps and exclama­ Whirl drag queens and a "Lip Film Festival. Alexa (The Day tions from the audience punctu­ Sync for Your Life" contest. After Tomorrow's Emmy Ros­ ate the air. Pandora does or says (Racing 2) sum) has always played it safe. continues page Artwork by Erica Eaton. After being urged by her acting coach to live fully, she falls for All-woman multi-media art bad boy Johnny (Zack Gilford of TV's Friday Night Lights). show marks spring equinox Alexa's best friend Ben (Ashley Springer) complicates this bud­ HER, an all female ART show consisting of poetry, music, ding romance by also pursuing show debut, is put on by CSWA's visual arts, and movement expres­ Johnny. Featuring gay icons San­ (Culture starts with ART!) new­ sion. The program showcases the dra Bernhard and Alan Cum­ est female artist support group, female expression of each individ­ ming, Dare is a light-hearted Sista's Sayin' Somethin' (SSS). ual artist's unique personal inter­ look at three people at the cross­ Cornhill hosts this multi­ pretation of HER. Artists range in roads of their lives. media art show on March 20 age from 10 years up. The Rochester LGBT Health at its new community center, CSWA is an artists' advo­ Coalition is a collective of local the Flying Squirrel, 285 Clarissa cacy group that strives toward agencies, organizations and cli­ St., and it will be sign interpret­ world peace and happiness for all nicians who share a commit­ ed. The space is not wheelchair humankind through promoting ment to LG BT persons in our accessible. and utilizing the universal lan- area. The Coalition seeks to con- HER is a multi-medium art (All-Woman continues page 3) (lmageOuf continues page 2) 2 B THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • NUMBER 432 • MARCH 2010

Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/ matter who you are or where you live, we ImageOut are all people. We all deserve the right to Facebook: ImageOut: The Rochester live in freedom, love whomever we choose, Lesbian & Gay Film & Video Festival . and lay our heads in peace." It would be a mistake to assume that the play is entirely heavy and melancholy: although some of the pieces are heart­ (Vagina from page 1) wrenching, there is also a great deal of The Vagina Monologues is so much humor within many of the monologues. more than a dramatic production: it is The humor that comes across in the non-fictional artistry that gives voice to actors' performances is definitely alive and the experiences of women around the well at our rehearsals. world. Eve Ensler interviewed thousands We always start by going around and of women about their life experiences having everyone answer a few questions before compiling the monologues. The about their... you guessed it... vagi­ hope that motivates V-Day is that an nas. "The most hilarious moments from increase in the awareness about and vis­ rehearsals were while listening to the ibility of the pain, strength and triumph Vagina Warriors answer questions such of womankind throughout history (com­ as, what would your vagina say, smell or bined with continual fundraising effort) sound like today," Vera said. (My personal will, ultimately, help to bring about an favorite of all the questions we were asked end to gender-related violence. during rehearsals was definitely "If your V-Day is a global movement to end vagina had a super power, what would it violence against women and girls that be?") raises funds and awareness through ben­ The sense of importance felt by the efit productions of The Vagina Mono­ actors is increased by our awareness that Beth Bloom show opens at Equal=Grounds logues. Through the last 12 years, the the monologues that we are performing V-Day movement has raised over $70 are the real-life experiences of women The opening reception for "Looking Through My Glass," an exhibit of new art work million internationally and educated mil­ interviewed by Ensler. Each role must by Beth Bloom, will run from 7-10pm at Equal=Grounds Coffee House, 750 South lions about the issue of violence against therefore be approached with sensitivity Ave. Bloom's work has won recognition at ImageArt shows in past years. women. and a willingness to honor the women The goals of V-Day are the primary whose lives we are portraying. reason that women choose to get involved "The challenge of performing this in productions of The Vagina Monologues. show is the process by which we take (Racing from page 1) (ImageOut from page 1) "I began as a cast member in The Vagina on our different roles," Inclema said. Although you do not have to be in drag front a myriad of issues related to health Monologues in the 2001/02 school year "The actor must learn to speak for a to compete in the lip-syncing contest, and wellness in our community that performance at the Rochester Institute of real woman, not a fictional character. In you do have to be fun and energetic (and includes, but is not limited to, creating Technology," said Colleen Vera Melisz, rehearsals, we discussed a great deal about it certainly doesn't hurt to be a little dra­ standards and guidelines for welcom­ the director of this year's production. these women. Many of these women have matic, too). The winner of the contest gets ing, culturally competent and responsive ''After my first performance, I was com­ experienced things that are far outside official Ru Paul's Drag Race merchandise health and human services. The Coalition mitted to using theatre as an artistic way our comfort zones, and as actresses we are and $100 Tilt Bucks. achieves its goals through collaboration, of volunteering my efforts towards end­ charged with portraying these inspiring 50 what are you going to do next advocacy, community education, and ing violence against women." women. " Monday? That's right ... you're going to through annual involvement in LG BT ''As a woman, I want to do all that I Tickets are $20 for the general pub­ take off your 5nuggie, put on your goin'­ Health Awareness Week. can to fight violence and raise awareness lic and $10 for students and seniors. out clothes (accessorized with your cha­ ImageOut resources: about V-Day," said cast member Michelle Tickets are available at Aaron's Alley, risma, uniqueness, nerve and talent) and Follow ImageOut on the Web at www. Inclema. ''At any given time, somewhere Equal=Grounds, Parkleigh, local Planned head to Tilt to cheer on our own Pandora ImageOut.org in the world, a woman is experiencing Parenthood locations, online at www. Boxx from the front row! • Blog at http://imageout.blogspot. violence. We need to do all that we can to pprsr.org and at the door on the evening coml help her: we need to understand that no of the show.

I II n

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All proceeds from this year's Roch­ and transgender friends, family members ester production will benefit the Rape and neighbors," Barrios said. "We need Crisis Service of Planned Parenthood to advocate for more gay-inclusive sto­ of the Rochester/Syracuse Region and ries to be shared with mainstream audi­ the women and girls of the Democratic ences because as more people see these Republic of the Congo. images, they realize that we have the same "No matter who you are, whether aspirations, hopes, and deserve the same it be male, female, black, white, gay or chances to take care of our loved ones and straight, we can all understand that vio­ families." lence MUST stop," Inclema said. "By Actor Colin Firth received a nomina­ buying a ticket to this show, you are con­ tion for Performance By An Actor In A tributing towards ending the violence. Leading Role for his turn as George in ''A When you come to this show, be prepared Single Man". to laugh, cry, become empowered and "Precious" is among the leading Oscar maybe blush a little. nominees in major categories with six "The Vagina Monologues is 100 percent nominations: Best motion picture of the electricity from the opening hilarity to year; performance by an actress in a the dramatic conclusion," she continued. leading role - Gabourey Sidibe; perfor­ "You will not be disappointed!" mance by an actress in a supporting role To become a sponsor, or to donate to - Mo'Nique; achievement in directing the V-Day raffle, please send an e-mail - Lee Daniels; best adapted screenplay [email protected] . • - Geoffrey Fletcher and achievement in film editing - Joe Klotz. "GLAAD congratulates the talent­ (All-Woman from page 1) ed director Lee Daniels for this much guage of art. Sista's Sayin' Somethin' Mis­ deserved honor. His bold storytelling has sion Statement: "To foster the expression opened a door for other talented storytell­ of HER, we are defining HER by being ers to share more inspiring stories about 1/ HER, without limiting HER." gay and transgender people," said Barrios. Diane Conway of CSWA says, "Sista's Daniels previously received the Stan­ March 20th, 2 ' I Sayin' Somethin' was formed for the pur­ ley Kramer Award, which recognizes work pose of assisting female artists to connect that dramatically illuminates provocative Explore our une ~ II through their creativity, and to provide a social issues, from the Producer's Guild of quest for roman l safe, supportive space in which women America on Jan. 20, 2010. e and girls can remain true to their unique In the film "Precious," actress Paula from first kiss to interpretation of female artistic expression Patton portrays out lesbian teacher Ms. and craft. By design, SSS also seeks to Rain, whose emotional support assists and making love last pave the way for young female artists to inspires the film's protagonist. In the film, explore creativity without judgment. viewers meet Ms. Rain's partner and hear "Please note," Conway adds, "sss is of the rejection that the loving couple face not anti-men. Rather, as women artists, from their families. we simply desire to be true to our unique Daniels and Sidibe appeared on a individual female expressions." panel during GLAAD's programming at The seasons mark the earth's energy the 2009 Sundance Film Festival where cycles. The powerful energy of the SSS's they spoke on the theme of "being an creative endeavors have aligned with the outsider." earth's mid-point between the coming In ''A Single Man," lead character of the light on the Winter Solstice, Dec. George's longtime partner is killed in a car 21, and the Summer Solstice in June. accident and he is banned from attending ''As we now approach spring, we awaken the funeral. Taking place in the homo­ and experience renewal, gradually moving phobic world of the early 1960s, the film from dormancy and introspection to new shows a man presenting one self to the beginnings and growth," Conway said. world, and forced to live an entirely dif­ As such, SSS's culminating project and ferent life in private. debut falls on the eve of the Spring Equi­ GLAAD will announce award recipi­ nox, March 20, from 8-11 p.m. Conway ents for the 21st Annual GLAAD Media says, "Join us in this community wide Awards in ceremonies in New York City celebration as we showcase and embrace on March 13, in Los Angeles on April 17 HER!" and in San Francisco on June 5. The list There will be a suggested donation - of nominees is available online at http:// a sliding fee of $10-$15 (no one will be www.glaad.org/mediaawards/21/nomi­ turned away due to lack of funds). Pro­ nees. ceeds will go towards SSS's upcoming The 82nd Annual Academy Awards publication, an anthology of multi-medi­ airs Sunday, March 7, at 8 p.m. on ABC. um performances and projects called, you guessed it, HER. Tara reunion is March 21 HER is a CSWA production, co-pro­ duced by The Evolutionary Girls Club. Abilene Bar and Lounge will celebrate For more information call Diane Con­ a community treasure, the late, great way at 442-5432 or e-mail CSWA at downtown club Tara's Cocktail Lounge, c_ s_ w [email protected] . • by holding a Tara's Reunion on Sunday, March 21. Abilene opened in the former home of Tara's, an historic 1800s building at 153 GLAAD salutes Oscar Liberty Pole Way, on March 21, 2008, nominations after Abilene owner Danny Deutsch bought the building from Tara's owner The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against David Yates. Tara's, long a popular club Defamation (GLAAD), on Feb. 2 con­ in Rochester's GLBT community, closed gratulated the creative teams and casts its doors after 28 years in 2007. of "Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' "We realize how much people loved by Sapphire" and ''A Single Man", which and miss Tara's and we're hoping they received a combined seven Oscar nomina­ come back March 21 to see old friends, tions at the announcement of nominees reminisce and celebrate," Deutsch says. for the 82nd Annual Academy Awards, Abilene, which has become a popular set for March 7. music club and will be an official Club Lee Daniels, honored for his work on Pass venue in the Xerox Rochester Inter­ "Precious," became the first openly gay national] azz Festival in June, will open at African American director to receive a noon on March 21 for the Tara's Reunion nomination. and remain open as long as the party goes "These films tell inclusive and diverse on. stories of our community which grow For the Tara's Reunion, Abilene will awareness and understanding of the offer "Tara's Era" priced drink specials lives of gay and transgender people," and prize giveaways, as well as karaoke. said GLAAD President Jarrett Barrios, Chef Rocky will be at the grill cooking President of the Gay & Lesbian Alliance up burgers, hots and his special home­ Against Defamation (GLAAD). made chili. "Images like the love and commitment Abilene also will make a donation to between Ms. Rain and her partner in 'Pre­ 1IrIAIN STAGE THEATRE TICKETS START AT $50 AIDS Care. 45 Prince Street Rochester, NY 14607 On Sale at Wegmans cious' and the isolation felt by George For further information, call Abilene Ir~TH E· f in 'A Single Man' spark conversations at 232-3230 or check the Abilene Web For Information Call: 585-242-0290 ~ ~ that help Americans embrace their gay Friends of SOTA is a community-based orga.iz,tion !hat raises funds to support lI1e ~mic. aIlislic alld Ixlmarlistic needs cI the studenls al School 0/ lie Ms. site, www.abilenebarandlounge.com . • 4 B THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • NUMBER 432 • MARCH 2010

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Sunday May 2nd, 2010 4-8pm One Restaurant MARCH 2010 • NUMBER 432 • GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • THE EMPTY CLOSET B 5

and money was tight. Installment pay­ Just last month, as I completed the ments had to be arranged. A toothache questionnaire for the Oral And Maxil­ needed to be endured. lofacial Surgeon, I took another oppor­ We implemented a kind of Familial tunity to challenge relationship labels. I Columnists DON'T ASK DON'T TELL. No words added a tiny check-here box and printed The opinions of columnists, editorial writers and other should Tell The Truth, even as the sear­ "partnered.'" I admit that I did not feel ing toothache brought me to the couch. the world shudder from this minuscule contributing writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect No Asking would ensue until floods of vocabulary lesson, but at least one person the collective attitude of the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley tears and tears and tears were too obvious had to read those words. And perhaps be or The Empty Closet. to ignore. enlightened. One small truth for gaykind. Eventually Mommy took me on the Soon I will join the skirmish against what that implies. city bus. I didn't cry on the bus. It was not the unequal distribution of tax dollars and Growing Up Somehow they got my number. One polite to disturb the other riders. Anyway, government representation that results GAY MAN AT THE HEALTH guy in fact asked me if I was gay. their blank gazes isolated them from oth­ from false figures. I will Queer the Cen­ CLUB In the steam room yet. Rarely at a loss ers' lives. sus. When the census worker knocks for words, I got one out, "yes," and only Once upon a time, when I was older, on my clearly queer door, I will answer, By Eric Bellmann hours later I still hadn't thought of any­ I and my throbbing wisdom tooth took draped in a rainbow flag. Although I am As best I can thing clever I might have added. Just as the bus alone. The dentist's office was in a onlr required to give the head count, I tell, I am the only well I did not. The health club isn't exact­ magnificent old house on Plymouth Ave­ wil offer additional information. I will gay man at my ly neutral ground; it's straight city. Oddly nue. To me, it was daunting. And so was identify my ethnicity as Queer. With health club. I go enough, I never saw him again either. the stone-faced dentist. wonderful irony, the census taker will to an early class. A Another mystery. Mrs. Dentist was the receptionist, also have to record my word choice on the line bunch of ladies and I'm being a little harsh. Truth be told, without smile or kindness. I understood labeled Other. me lifting weights I like working out. I like having a sched­ that I was not allowed to ask any ques­ Yesterday I received a summons for to music. Lousy ule. I like having access to an environment tions. Anyway, her pursed lips were cer­ jury service. With my #2 pencil in hand, music, nice ladies. I that once had seemed very remote, some­ tainly in Don't Ask Don't Tell Mode. I filled in all the "Don't Commit Perjury" feel quite comfortable. thing other people did. I do, after all, pay Without a sound I followed her to bubbles. Once again, my reality had not This is all about staying alive, keep­ the same price of admission. The Chair. There was no banter. Stealth­ earned a bubble. I took advantage of the ing the moving parts moving. This is The staff can be problematic at times. ily Mrs. Dentist slipped out the door. The space dedicated to "added information not about pumping muscles. My health The girls at the desk are mandated to water in the porcelain spit-sink swirled needed to answer the questions". On the club markets itself very shrewdly to older say hello when you walk in. The trainers silently. lines provided, I wrote a letter. people. I'll upchuck if I have to use their are another story. Butch slabs who bare­ Then, through the other dark door, "Dear US District Court: term: "Silver Sneakers." Actually that's a ly blink. I think they don't like me or I Dr. Knight drifted into the room, his "Your document indicates that I must separate program. I'm with the pre-sil­ make them nervous, but who would really white smock starched hard. He moved in answer your questions to the best of my ver sneaker set, gals five to fifteen years know, no one's talking. slow motion, gliding toward the wall of knowledge and belief. The bubble choices younger than me. My fingers cramp up if Once I said hello to a trainer as I was cabinets. The glass panes flashed sunlight do not allow me to tell the whole truth. I try to type "seniors". staggering up the stairs. No reply. In a onto the bottles and jars he noiselessly "Question 15, Marital Status, has only For all the grayness, there are surpris­ huff I asked at the desk what exactly the removed. His back to me, he made pink four choices: single; married; widowed; es. I like to use the wet sauna. Sweating is problem might be? Whatever transpired paste and gray blobs. separated or divorced. I am, to my knowl­ kind of a cheating way to lose a couple of next I have no idea, except that I got a He approached the round tray table edge a person who, in the course of my pounds, which I am all for. It also fosters perfunctory "hello" from that point on. that Mrs. Dentist had covered with sil­ life, has been single; married; divorced; relief from aches. I'm probably a wee bit responsible for ver tools. Tiny mirrors. Straight blades. single; married; divorced; single and .... Usually it's empty. I like it that way. how people respond. In this land of eter­ Hooked picks. And silver pliers. The only ''And then my truths disappear on For a while there was this really porked­ nal white T shirts that advertise Hilton element of softness in the whole room was your form. I declare that I have a spouse. out pink old guy who always seemed to Head or Sanibel Island, I sport a exten­ a small pile of gauze. We are in a happy, healthy lO-year rela­ be in the sauna. I mean always. A grunt sive wardrobe of exotic Ts. I favor Wrestle Then the Dentist placed his concoc­ tionship. We have a Rochester, New York, hello, that was it. I gradually came to real­ Mania shirts and one knockout red one tions on the white paper. He turned. No Domestic Partnership, #25. In addition, a ize he was a secret peeper. If anyone came that reads, "Whose Your Daddy?" I have eye contact, no conversation. Only direc­ Sikh disciple performed a spiritual mar­ in -- we do this activity nude - geezer's some great Mexican wrestler shirts, "Mys­ tions: Open. Spit. Open more. riage ceremony for Spousewomyn and me. little tiny eyes popped wide open. tico" is my fave. I buy this stuff in Spanish On my return bus ride, blood filled "It is my belief that the true label for No doubt it meant the world to him. Harlem. I haven't gone for the 50 Cent or the gauze, then a wad of Kleenex, and my marital status, when constrained by So sad, so sweet. So if we were alone, Michael Jackson memorabilia look. Yet. then my scarf. The hole throbbed as much the four given choices, is 'married.' I'd flash him. Sit with my legs open and I figure there is subtle discrimination as the rotten tooth had. My averted eyes "I would have chosen 'partnered' if it let him have his visual fill of my mea­ floating around. The racket ball guys are guaranteed my DON'T ASK DON'T were a fifth choice." ger gifts. I'm not sure if he even appreci­ the worst. Macho in the worst ways. They TELL. I remembered that it was not I do realize that modest Word Edits ated my charity. One day he wasn't there. act as if they own the joint. They stand polite to penetrate a stranger's conscious­ here and there are not enough. Obviously Never appeared again. Did he drop dead around in the hallway blocking passage. ness. we need a Shock and Awe strategy to star­ at home? Possibly. His little hobby could You have to squeeze past them. One day, I know that DON'T ASK DON'T tle the purveyors of Don't Ask Don't Tell. have over taxed his heart. Life is packed not so long ago, I had an inspiration. I TELL is a formidable enemy. It starts Hence, at high noon, on National with unexplained mysteries. decided I would not squeeze past them. I early and gains power. And changes iden­ Coming Out Day, all LGBTIQQpersons My health club used to have a pret­ would stride, yes, march deliberately, defi­ tities. When I was in grammar school, it will gather at the nearest stoplight. And ty nice shower room. An open shower antly down the center of the hallway. Oh was really, really naughty to TATTLE. In immediately disrobe. No one will notice. room. Now and then the Gods in their girl, it worked. They got out of my way! high school, it was unwise to RAT-OUT We are invisible. generosity would send into the showers And, yes, they glowered, gave me dirty another student. During college vaca­ Meanwhile, back at the ranch, the fac­ some major hunk and on those damna­ looks. It was divine. tions, I worked nights in a factory office. tories, hospitals, offices, meat markets, bly rare occasions I would get very, very I shouldn't tell you the next thing, Others did not. They played. They fooled pulpits, schools, stores, and truck stops, clean. Soap, rinse, soap, rinse, rinse again, but here it is anyway. Surfing through around, punting paper footballs across there will be empty spaces. At which point etc. I am a visual person, an artist who Craig's List, I found an ad for someone their desks. Sternly those guys warned heterosexual people will notice Holes In appreciates beauty. No harm in looking, who described himself in glowing terms. me. "Don't ruin our overtime pay. MIND Their Reality. The Holes will tell the as they say. But like I say, these were rare He said he went to very same athletic YOUR OWN BUSINESS." straight people a Big Truth. We are every­ moments. club. Named it! Said he liked to stroll It is no surprise that the Big Boys where. On the way to my room full of ladies around naked, showing off, in the locker still like to LIE. Admirals and other Then, at 12:12, all those naked homo­ who lift weights, I pass the big boys gym, room. He solicited others to join him in brass leaders insist that soldiers play the sexuals will march to the nearest park for the land of free weights where, it seems, exhibiting themselves. He did add that DON'T ASK DON'T TELL game. This a picnic. I have invited the Tooth Fairy. God has decreed all must wear base­ his preferred time to exercise, in so many military tactic stems from early child­ MeredithElizabethReiniger@Jrontier­ ball hats. I think it's some kind of butch ways, was afternoons. Damn, that alas is hood experiences. There is clear evidence net. net reassurance. These gents in love with my naptime! that the admiral babies placed their little, their biceps have their appeal. Problem E-mail: ELBCAD@RITEDU heterosexual hands over their eyes so they A Few Bricks Short could hide. Seemed to work. is, they never, ever go to the locker room. PROTECT OUR FAMILY! They arrive in workout clothes and leave Cleaning My Closet Now that their supreme commander in their workout clothes. Is there some hunts for honesty, some old white guys By David Hull shameful secret they must conceal? Are 00 NOT DON'T ME fret about dishing out more equality. First "Marriage they in a hurry to get wherever? Heaven The Blacks wanted to be patriotic. Then equals One Man & By Meredith Eliza­ The Women. Now The Gays. Who next? only knows. I know they don't shower, beth Reiniger One Woman!" that's what I know. Consequently, the old white straight I just had an "Protect Our The guys that do shower would make guys, threatened again by Change, have extraction. It costs Children - Not the you, should you be so unfortunate as to started to regurgitate moldy discrimi­ lot$ more than Gay Agenda!" get a gander at them, never, ever want nation schemes. Surely, they opine, the "It was Adam & merely having a military cannot allow THOSE queer to have sex again. I mean ugly. Fat and "tooth pulled." My Eve, not Adam & hairy, yuk. That's just for openers. They PEOPLE to sleep near Ordinary White next surgery is the Steve!" are noisy and crude and loud and they Straight Male People. Seriously, they rant, screwing of the Yes, those are really actual signs I've will not leave. It's their little play pen, if THOSE queer PEOPLE see The Ordi­ post. And then the seen being proudly held up to protest the their club house. And some of them are naries take a shower, what next? making and placing of the cap. On the legalization of gay marriage. very territorial, or maybe it's just selfish­ Without a doubt, Equality and Truth­ health form provided by my peridontist Honestly, if one more person claims ness, because they spread their gym bags fulness are taxing options for elected I recorded my dental insurance plan: the that my relationship with my husband and crap over all the benches, never mak­ officials. That's why the old-fashioned tooth fairy. Bernie is a threat to their marriage, their ing room for the princess. They seem to DON'T ASK DON'T TELL is so handy When I was young, the tooth fairy was family or their children, I am going to be lawyer/broker types. They brag about for the multitudes of Ordinary White an inconsistent source of funds. Anyway scream. How can legalizing gay marriage deals and cars and talk trash about their Straight Male People in charge of Impor­ she only left dimes. And often her arrival be a threat to anyone else's relationship clients. Very unsettling. Most of them tant Matters. And that is why we must was associated with pain. We were poor with their spouse or children? I don't get wrap towels around their waists. Guess enlist in the Battle of Lexicon. it. The argument makes no sense at all. 6 B THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • NUMBER 432 • MARCH 2010

And who gets to decide how marriage didn't waste that money by helping the on sale now at Aaron's Alley, Parkleigh, the poignant and must-see documentary in this country is defined? Only the peo­ poor people! If the churches want to have Equal=Grounds and local Planned Par­ Swimming with Lesbians. This touch­ ple who can get legally married! Does that a say in the legal battle for civil gay mar­ enthood health centers, and online at ing and very necessary film captures not sound very democratic to you? riage, then perhaps the churches should www.pprsr.org. Tickets are $20 general only Buffalo's hidden gay past, but the My husband and I own our house, pay give up the status of separation of Church admission and $10 seniors and students. spirit and determination to keep history our bills and taxes, celebrate the Fourth and State. If the church wants to get Ninety percent of all profits from alive for the future as well. Emmy Award­ of July, feed the birds in winter, buy Girl involved in stopping civil gay marriage, V-Day Rochester will benefit our local winning director David Marshall will be Scout cookies and vote. We take my par­ they can also start paying state and federal Rape Crisis Service, allowing more vic­ in attendance to discuss the film after the ents out to dinner on Saturday nights, taxes, just like I do. I have a feeling that tims of sexual assault to get free counsel­ screening. donate every month to the local food would shut up a lot of our "Christian" ing, advocacy, and services. Ten percent Stay after the 6 p.m. film or come cupboard and watch The Ten Command­ friends very quickly. of V-Day Rochester proceeds will ben­ early to the 8:30 p.m. film to visit the ments every Easter. Who exactly are we Besides, I don't see how can Bernie efit the V-Day Spotlight campaign "Stop ImageOut Information Cafe in the newly threatening? and I could ever be more of a threat to Raping our Greatest Resource: Power to renovated cafe space at the Cinema. All Murderers, pedophiles, drug dealers, marriage in America than South Carolina Women and Girls of Democatic Republic the ImageOut committees will be in as long as they are heterosexual, can all get Governor Mark Sanford, who used tax­ of Congo." attendance and looking for volunteers! At legally married - but two gay guys who payer money to run off to South America Since 1996, sexual violence in the 8:30 p.m., catch the Rochester premier of like to garden and watch old Hollywood to be with his beloved mistress, leaving his Eastern part of the DRC has been used the feature length film Dare, official selec­ musicals together are a threat to society. wife and young sons behind on Father's as a weapon of war to torture, humiliate, tion of the 2009 Sundance Film Festival. As far as our house is concerned, the Day weekend in 2009. Now he's claiming and destroy not only women and girls, but For more info on the March 25 ImageOut "Gay Agenda" consists of finishing the it was OK that he ran off to his mistress also entire families and whole communi­ free screenings, go to www.imageout.org. laundry, taking the cat to the vet and because he did not use the word "fidelity" ties. Please help us end the violence in our On the last day of LG BT Health remembering to take the trash out on in his wedding vows. community and throughout the world. Month, March 31, there will be a LGBT Thursday night. Not exactly a list for Or, could we be as threatening to mar­ For info about V-Day Rochester and Rape Healthcare Equality Workshop from 6:30- world domination, if you ask me. riage as Nevada Senator John Ensign, who Crisis Service, go to www.pprsr.org. 8 p.m. at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Apparently, from what I hear and read, used party supporter donations in 2008 to Wednesday, March 10, come to a Dansville, NY. Come and learn about gay marriage is indeed a threat, and not hire his mistress and her son to work on free screening of Diagnosing Difference creating and using a health care proxy to just in New York State, but to the whole his own campaign committee? from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the AIDS Care protect your legal rights with regard to country. And what about golf legend Tiger office, 259 Monroe Ave. This thought­ healthcare. Hosted by AIDS Care and the Personally, I don't think gay marriage Woods; is he less of a threat to marriage provoking documentary, which was well Dansville Gay Men's Group, this event is a threat to heterosexual marriage. I than Bernie and I? My feeling is that if received at the ImageOut film festival this is free and open to the public. For more think divorce is a threat to heterosexual you have more mistresses than you do past October, explores the GID (Gender information, contact Erik at (585) 210- marriage. fingers to count them on, then you're Identity Disorder) classification and how 4192. For me, the only logical way to pro­ probably a threat to marriage; especially it impacts trans people's lives. I saw this This is just a small sampling of the tect marriage in this country is to make your own. film at ImageOut a few months ago. No exciting events planned for LGBT Health gay marriage legal and make divorce ille­ Just give me a break, people - aim your - edit that - I PAID to see this film Month. Check out the pull-out center­ gal. Then, no matter who gets married anti-marriage venom at the right targets. at ImageOut and it was the best film on fold calendar in this edition of The Empty - straights, gays, lesbians - they won't be The definition of marriage in America trans people's health and the GID that Closet, pages A 10-11, and the March cal­ able to threaten marriage because they'll has been changing for hundreds of years I've ever seen. Please don't miss out on this endar on page B 14 for the whole scoop. I never be able to get divorced. Every mar­ and it will continue to adjust long after one! The film will be followed by a panel hope to see you at a LGBT Health Month riage will have a 100 percent success rate. this debate is over - and gay marriage is discussion. Light snacks will be provided. very soon! Look for more queer health Talk about protecting marriage! Now that finally legal. For more information, contact Erik at info in the Vagina Dialogues next month! makes sense! I ho~e all. those senators and In the end, I think my father summed (585) 210-4192. KaeLyn Rich is the Community Affairs congressmen are listenmg. things up best when he said, "There's no RSVP now for the FREE Queer Self Coordinator at Planned Parenthood of the Another argument I hear against gay reason gay people shouldn't be allowed to Defense Class. The Gay Alliance Anti­ Rochester/Syracuse Region. Ifyou have sug­ marriage is that when gay couples get get married in this country. They should Violence Project and Rated F will be host­ gestions for a future Vagina Dialogues topic, married they will want children and they suffer just like the rest of us!" ing this event on March 7 from 1 p.m. to contact KaeLyn at [email protected]. For cannot make adequate parents because 3 p.m. at the United Martial Arts Center, more information on the issues discussed children, to be normal and happy, must The Vagina Dialogues 1748 Monroe Ave. Space is limited, so in this column, visit www.pprsr.org or call have a female mother and male father. please e-mail your RSVP by March 5 to our toll free helpline at 1-866-600-6886. However, if that truly is the reason we HEALTH IS CONTAGIOUS - [email protected]. Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ can't have gay marriage, then that also SPREAD THE WORD! Rated F will also be hosting a Make pprsr! . means we can't have any single parents. Your Own Sex Toys program on March The authorities will have to step in and By KaeLyn Rich 16 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the GAGV remove children from a variety of danger­ Haha! I'm so Youth Center (875 Main Street) and a ous situations. clever. What, you've Love Your Boobs program on March If a single person has ever adopted a heard that one 23 from 7-9 p.m. at the Flying Squirrel child - the child must be taken away. before? Anyway, it's Community Space, 285 Clarissa St. Make If a couple has a child, but one of the that time of year Your Own Sex Toys will teach you how spouses passes away - the child must be again. to make your own sex toys, care for them removed and taken to safety. I'm talking properly and use them safely (alone and/ If one parent abandons his or her fam­ ...... ,j ...... about LGBT Health or with partners). Love Your Boobs will ily, the government must move in and Month! This March, be an interactive workshop where par­ get those endangered kids away from the the LGBT health awareness activities have ticipants can make and decorate a plaster remaining parent who no longer has the been expanded from one week into a cast of their breasts/chest while discussing opposite-sexed partner! whole 31 days of good, healthy fun. The breast health. There is a $10 suggested How ridiculous - families have always theme of the month is "31 Ways in 31 donation for Love Your Boobs, but Make been varied; even when I was growing Days" and each day you can go to www. Your Own Sex Toys is free. Both events up in the '60s there were kids with just everybodysgood.com and get a new health are for ages 18+ only. For more infor­ a mother, or kids who lived with their tip! There is also a full calendar of the "31 mation, email [email protected] or grandparents, or kids who were adopted Ways" and all the LGBT Health Month visit www.ratedf.wordpress.com New Library Hours by single parents. And trust me, after 22 events in this edition of The Empty Closet. ImageOut will be hosting free screen­ LGBT Health Month is sponsored by Sunday: 2-5pm years of teaching, I can tell you that some­ ings and a volunteer fair on March 25 Monday: 6-8pm times the children who grow up in a home the Rochester LGBT Health Coalition, a at the Cinema Theatre (957 S. Clinton Wednesday: 6-8pm with both a mother and a father can be group of local agencies and providers that Avenue). At 6 p.m., you can catch the Other times by appointment only pretty screwed-up and unhappy too. meets to discuss health disparities and short film U-Haul Rap (hilarious!) before Contact: [email protected] Finally, and I think most importantly, issues of the queer community. The Coali­ the religious groups need to get out of the tion groups represent all fields of health fight about gay marriage. If you check, including HIV/AIDS, sexual assault and you'll notice that very few, if any, gay intimate partner violence, drug and alco­ couples are asking for a religious wedding. hol addiction treatment, sexual and repro­ We just want legal, civil marriages. No ductive health and mental health. They priests or pastors or rabbis are necessary. also represent many diverse experiences Just give us a marriage license, a J ustice­ with health, such as lesbian and bisexual of-the-Peace and a courthouse, thank you women's health, gay men's health, persons very much. living with HIV/AIDS, young adults and The religious folks keep claiming that teens, trans health, queer persons of color, religion and marriage cannot be discussed etc. - issues and agencies as diverse as separately because marriage is a religious our families, and as the issues presented ceremony. in this column! Nonsense - a few thousand years ago Here are some highlights from the cal­ endar that would be specifically appealing marriage was merely a business arrange­ Certified Professional Pet Grooming Pick-up & Drop-off Service Available ment; religion was an afterthought until to readers of the Vagina Dialogues: the bride's dowry was paid in full. No Planned Parenthood is sponsoring the (585) 271-2530 future husband was interested in contact­ fourth annual V-Day Rochester benefit ing the pastor until he received his three production of Eve Ensler's The Vagina cows, four chickens and two acres of fer­ Monologues on Saturday, March 13 at 7 tile land. p.m. at Hochstein School of Music and Did you know that in the fall of 2009 Dance, 50 N. Plymouth Ave. the Catholic Church spent over two mil­ V-Day is a global movement to end James Del Favero violence against women and girls by rais­ 45 Pavilion Street lion dollars to promote the anti-gay mar­ Bark:er's Barber' Rochester, NY 14620 riage bill in Maine? Good thing they ing funds and awareness. Tickets are MARCH 2010 • NUMBER 432 • GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • THE EMPTY CLOSET B 7

•••,Q nd . r·'etnem.. . ,' be.. r RAJ BO t he Rainbow SAGE InteJr-Genero.t ional P'oneJ. OF THE GE E EE VALLEY Everyone 'Win be t h,er e. PRESENTS THE

7TH ANNUAL INTE,R GENE,RATI'O ,NAL PANEL

FROM OUR YOUTH T O OUR ELDER:!?, MEMB,.6RS OF TH:e LGBTIQ COMMUNITY WILL SHARE TJiEI.R PE RSO ' A L EXPERIENCES OF "SBLF" ACCEPTANCE'

PLEASE JOIN US A T ,4 :00 PM 'SUNDAY MARCH 2 : 2010

T H B. GAY AL'LIAN CB OF THE GENESEE VALLEY YOUTH CEN TER THE AUDITORIUM CENTE.R 875 EAST MAIN STRcEET ROCHESTE ~ NY mmn 'e on Pbnce treet Fi'eC parking In the real' of the building

LEASE JOIN liS APT RWARDS F It. A BITE T O EAT AND OPPORTUNI Y TO ALK WITH OUR P K R.S 8 B THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • NUMBER 432 • MARCH 2010

They say Need a OJ for an hair loss doesn't matter... Upcoming What do you think? Party?

NEW-U Hair Replacement Specialists 1425 Jefferson Road, Saginaw Plaza Rochester, New York 14623 585-272-7320 • www.newuhairloss.com

Joe Russo, Psy.D., CGP Licensed Psychologist Certified Group Psychotherapist 25 Canterbury Road, Suite 308 Rochester, New York 14607 Phone: (585) 506-6096 E-mail: [email protected] T Weekly Bi/Gay T Addiction T Depression T Trauma Men's Therapy T Anxiety T Grief/Loss T Relationships Group

Re ideo ial ew and Old ork · peciali· t , Serving the R()che.<,'ter ol'mmmi r for over 20 year."

II Shur s"

• Licen. ed ffi . : 654- 642 • ully In ured .a .: 224-8228 • . Quot L Vlo d@aoLcom . MARCH 2010 • NUMBER 432 • GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • THE EMPTY CLOSET B 9

O_~ BR~·L'A~T b.· ·G·· · F· Lake Avenue 's- Dt\J &.. _ I:AI\I~ _ . y .reg ox ":ev :J. IM T HINKtNG YO U PROe-­ S He Baptist Church A B L.'f CAN'.,- AFFORO A. ~L. WaUI-ONo /,. THOSE CLOTHSS, GLORI · L.ST M e: D O AN"r'THrNG W t-rH A WELCOMING "THe: HAIR, B U·T •• . . & AFFIRM ING CONGREGATION Invites You! 10:00 AM: Sunday morning worship service 11:30 AM: ..... G I\lE. M E:. A FEW Class on Igbt . MORE WEI5KS A N D liberation theology X'j..1.- WBAR H5R DOWN .

Childcare & WHY ~ ' M HE.R&? we. BOTH KNOW 'To .s ee M Y BEkO\lSDYOU O NL.'/ SHOW Sunday School for SON) B~ 6 ,{ GR'- - uP li'VERY Few children are available. 'ie .ARB B e CAUSE . yOU WANT SOME­ I ,-rUN.G , G L. ORl A .. Lake Avenue Baptist Church is located just off Lake Avenue near the stop light at 145 Lake Avenue.

For more information phone 585- 458-5765

First Tuesdays 7-9pm: Education Sessions St Thomas' Episcopal Church, 2000 Highland Avenue, Rochester 14618. Guest speakers present information followed by a group discussion. Third Sundays 2-4pm: Support & Discussion Auditorium Theatre 5th Floor 875 East Main Street Rochester 14605 Facilitated discussion to provide support to attendees while engaging the group in a variety of topics. (Occurs at the same time as the youth and young adult support groups that occur in the Youth Center on the first floor of the building)

Angela M. Oddone LMSW

Supportive, affirming psychotheralPist with 15 years experience serving the gayl ~ lesb.an community.

. ancial 100 Unden Oaks - Suite 200, Rochester, NY 14625 (585) 586-1600 [email protected] Ka Conhead, CFp® ~ advice for the www.aproposfp.com Y Y LGBT community from Phone: (585) 533·1950 Fee-only one of your own! a ng el [email protected] 10 B THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY. NUMBER 432 • MARCH 2010

"Life is an adventure in forgiveness" ~ Norman Cousins Join us for an adventure of mutual discovery and sharing. How do we remove the barriers that keep us from the presence of love? What can we do to strengthen our resilience to victimization? Where do we even begin? This four-part exploration of forgiveness has the potential to bring hope and renewal. Free and open to the LGBT community, friends and family. The tours give youth a chance to check out area campuses and college life. Tuesdays: Feb 23, March 9, 23, April 6 • 6-8pm Light dinner served. Register by calling 585-244-8640 The Gay Alliance is a community partner of WXXI, NCBI and the Fetzer Institute's Campaign for Love and Forgiveness

Gay Alliance Youth Services

for Rochester area LGBTQ and allied youth ages 13-23 [email protected] Gay Alliance Youth Group members toured SUNY Geneseo on Feb. 10. Youth Center Hours: Drop-in: Monday and Wednesday, 2-6pm Youth Group: Sunday, 2-4pm, ages 13-23 Sunday, 4-5pm, Drop In Hour Special Interest Programming: Transgender Youth • Arts and Crafts • Movies • Writing Special Events: Youth Dances • Day of Silence • The Big Gay Prom And we have: Pool Table • LGBTQ Youth Library • Internet Access

Adult Volunteers Needed: Fun, friendly, safe adults are needed to volunteer their time and talents, providing positive role models, maybe sharing a talent or skill. Contact Scott Fearing, Outreach Coordinator, for an application: [email protected] 585-244-8640 x14

Photos: Jess Cohen Save the Dates

THE BIG* GAY PROM * * * * **** **** * ** * t * '1:f1:f * * * * * * * * * * ** * ** * * * *'ft* * * *** * * ** *** '* * '* * ** ** ** '** * ** * * * * * ** * * * i;i * * Friday, May 7 *'1i * * ** * Strathallan Hotel *

Strathallan Hotel 1 $101 Drug & Alcohol Free 1 Ages 13-231 Straight Apollo Room of the Auditorium Center 1 The National Day of Allies Welcome 1 Music by DJ Chuck Argento 1 For more information: Silence brings attention to anti-LGBT name-calling, bullying and [email protected] 1 585 244-8640, ext 13 harassment in schools. 1 Later, Celebrate with DJ Chuck Argento MARCH 2010 • NUMBER 432 • GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY. THE EMPTY CLOSET B 11

tion of their marriage and the rights they demand. Strategies for doing so were out­ Talking About Marriage lined in last month's article. Listen carefully to the answer and the reason(s) for the denial. Ask for them in sex couples have the legal right to argue Marriage resources writing. With any luck, requiring a writ­ for recognition and the federal govern­ ten response obligates the person denying By Scott Fearing ment can use DOMA as both a sword marriage recognition to think through Generally the articles on this page are and a shield to deny us equal treatment the decision to discriminate well enough written by staff members of the Gay Alli­ under the law. to articulate support for doing so. There is ance, but this month we feature a second So who is right? How do we protect a chance that he or she may be convinced article written by local Attorney and fac­ our families and advocate for full and that the right thing to do is to extend the ulty member at RIT, Jennifer Gravitz. equal recognition from the N.Y. and fed­ In recent months the number of calls eral governments? How and when can we legal protection to the couple. A written articulation of the reason(s) for the denial Americorps member Sean Soper to our office about legal issues related to expect DOMA to be overturned? also offers the married couple (and their with David McLuckie at the Gay Alli­ marriage and gender identity/expression There is no easy answer to these ques­ ance donor event on Jan. 28 at the have increased, and we have relied upon tions. As the battle begins to shift from attorney) an opportunity to research the Strathallan. Photo: Laura McSpadden. Jennifer and other local attorneys to help the right to marry to the right to recogni­ position and continue the dialogue, or us navigate the confusing mix of state and tion of our marriages, we find ourselves provides the couple with indisputable federal laws. on the scrimmage line in one of the most evidence of discrimination that may be Program In addition to these articles, the Com­ exciting legal and Constitutional battles. admissible in court at a later date. munity Safety team at the Gay Alli­ It is time to "play ball". Each of us, mar­ Do your research and re-engage in ance has worked with Gravitz to create ried or not, has a role to play in learning the discussion and advocacy. As it hap­ Notes new resources on our website. Please about the complexities of these "cross­ pens, the employer in the first example look for "Marriage Resources" under the over" laws, advocating for the maximum misapplied ERISA. This law does not Resources tab at www.GayAlliance.org. legal recognition for our marriages and address same sex marriage - it requires Charlie's Group Here you will find a number of impor­ devising strategies to overturn DOMA. the taxation of corporate benefits paid to The Gay Alliance has partnered with tant documents to download, as well as This issue is hardly academic. In less non spouses (which thanks to DOMA local professionals to facilitate a group for links to other resources. If you think of than a week, I received two calls from dif­ costs non-married partners much more men who are married and are involved something we forgot, please let us know ferent couples asking for help in the fight money than our opposite gendered mar­ in undisclosed sexual relationships out­ and we will work to get it added to the for marriage recognition in situations ried friends pay). At press time, we were side of their marriage. The Group, called website. Contact us at Safety@GayAl­ involving both state and federal laws. pointing out this distinction to the Charlie's Group is a discussion and sup­ liance.org The first involved a company refus­ employer and taking the position that port group to address questions, health ing to extend health care benefits to an NYS requires the them to provide health concerns etc. The Group will meet once employee's same sex spouse but insuring benefits to the employee's same sex spouse a month from 6:30-8:30. For dates and Strange bedfellows: all opposite gendered spouses of employ­ or face a violation of NY's civil rights laws locations, please contact ScottF@gayal­ marriage recognition ees. The company cited ERISA (a federal for discrimination based on marital sta­ liance.org or call 585-244-8640. and contradictory state law regarding taxation of corporate ben­ tus. We hope to report a positive result InQueery Classes efits and regulating retirement accounts; soon. Inquiring minds want to know... so and federal laws more on this law below) and its "refus­ The second case will require more the Gay Alliance has created InQueery, a By Jennifer Gravitz al" to recognize same sex spouses (that's research into the governmental regula­ new way for LGBT and allied community Last month we examined what mar­ DOMA's "job", not ERISA's) as the rea­ tions regarding the adoption benefits. members to have fun while they learn and riage means in New York. We identified son for the refusal. The results of both the research and the connect. For class descriptions and other types of laws that provide legal rights (i.e. The second involved a local private ensuing dialogue will be the focus of details please visit www.gayalliance.org, health insurance and joint property own­ university that refuses to extend adop­ future articles. follow the InQueery listing under the ership) or create legal responsibilities (i.e tion benefits (governed by federal law) So when do we sue to overturn DO MA? Education tab. spousal support and joint responsibility to the lesbian couple wanting to marry DOMA is, after all, the legal license to Monday, 1 March: Screening & Dis­ for debt). Then we talked about strategies before the birth of their child because the discriminate against our married couples. cussion: Celluloid Closet for educating and cajoling recalcitrant regulation does not permit the benefit for There are two lawsuits underway; see Tuesday, 2 March: Coming Out: A employers and state employees into recog­ "stepparent" adoption. Lambda Legal Defense and Education's Process For Everyone nizing those rights for same sex spouses. It is truly amazing that the univer­ website at http://www.lambdalegal.org/ Thursday, 18 March: Understanding Game over, right? Unfortunately not. sity will recognize their marriage for the publicationsl articles/fa_20 10 0 120 _lamb­ Human Sexual Identity Looming in front of us is a challenge of purpose of denying the benefit! Even da-legal-sues-for-spousal-benefits.html Saturday, 20 March: Volleyball with monster proportion -- the reality that cer­ more confusing is the fact that if they and GLAD's website http://www.glad. LGBT Flare tain rights and responsibilities are simul­ marry before the baby is born, the non­ org/domallawsuitl for more information. Tuesday, 30 March: Eating Disorders taneously rooted in the New York legal biological spouse will be presumed to be Surprisingly, both civil rights organi­ & The Queer Communities system (which must recognize same sex the baby's legal parent under New York zations advise NOT to file suit - claim­ Wednesday, 7 April: Towards Trans­ marriage) and the federal legal system law. Although she will be recognized as ing, with good reason, that the cases Inclusive Language (which refuses to do so thanks to the the baby's parent here in N.Y., there is must be carefully chosen and filed in Gay Alliance Website Defense of Marriage Act, DOMA). no guarantee, without adopting the baby, courts where there is a high likelihood Here are two examples. Medicaid, the that other states or the federal govern­ of winning -- to avoid negative decisions Gets New Look program that helps pay for chronic and ment will do so. that could end our fight for recognition The Gay Alliance website which catastrophic medical expenses (i.e. nurs­ Ironically, it (almost) benefits the cou­ of these critical legal rights. Read the received over 130,000 hits in 2009, now ing home costs), is a federal program, ple to marry before the baby is born, article "Make Change, Not Lawsuits", has a new look. The update was necessary administered by the state, and partially claim all of the N.Y. legal rights and then http://www.glad.org/uploads/docs/publi­ to replace some outdated software that funded by both the federal and state gov­ state they are single in the eyes of the fed­ cations/make-change-not-lawsuits09.pdf ran the site. But the change presented us ernment (the state cost is the "unfunded eral government pursuant to DOMA in to understand why. with an opportunity to update content mandate" we hear so much about at bud­ order to access the adoption benefits - a We will explore the significance of and begin to make other design changes. get time). Same sex spouses argue that we financial benefit that comes in handy to these cases and additional ways to advo­ The most noticable changes, besides are entitled to the same preferential treat­ afford the court ordered adoption they cate for marriage recognition in future the new colors, are to be found on the ment as opposite sex couples because the will need to legally protect both parents articles. Until then, if you and your Empty Closet page, the Pride page and program is run by New York and funded, and the baby until this thorny issue of spouse believe you have been denied legal the on-line Community Resource Direc­ partially, by our tax dollars. The federal marriage recognition is ironed out. rights due you by virtue of your marriage, tory, which now boasts almost 1,000 fully government argues that, under DOMA, Keep in mind that the "cross-over" tell us. Contact the Gay Alliance, GLAD search-able community resources. There we are not married and therefore are rel­ challenges presented by conflicting state or Lambda Legal Defense and Education are more changes to come in the next cou­ egated to a costly, discriminatory and and federal legal perspectives is new to us Fund to explain what happened. GLAD, ple of months as the entire site is exam­ offensive process of qualifying for bene­ all: couples, our employers, state and fed­ in particular, is seeking to collect as much ined and new materials added. Check it fits from which opposite gendered spous­ eral employees and other public officials information as possible about the federal out at www.gayalliance.org. es are exempted. who are weighing whether to recognize discrimination same-sex married couples EC Online Survey Another example is tax status. N.Y. or deny our marriages and the rights that face. And speaking of the new website, you recognizes our marriages and, in theory, accompany them. If your marriage is not respected, can participate in The Empty Closet survey should allow us to file joint returns. Alas, Where do married couples begin to we encourage you to call GLAD's Legal on the EC page this month! In addition NYS tax forms require us to file the same figure out whether the "gay" mare goes InfoLine at 800-455-GLAD ( 800-455- to getting a preview of the new website's way we do on our federal forms and, you before the cart or vice versa? Which law, GLAD (4523) to discuss your options. look, you can let us know who you are get it by now, since we are not married state or federal, determines the recogni­ We encourage all married same-sex cou­ and what you want to see in your news­ in the eyes of Uncle Sam and must file tion or denial of our marriages? ples to fill out our Married Couples Sur­ paper. Just go to www.gayalliance.org and as "single", we are denied the benefits of The first step is dialogue. Married vey at http://www.glad.org/doma/survey. click on Empty Closet News to access the NYS joint filing. couples need to make the "ask" and be The more we learn from one another, survey. • Just like the Medicaid example, same prepared to advocate for the recogni- the greater good we will achieve . •

The Gay Alliance 875 E. Main St., Suite 500 Rochester, NY 14605 • Hours Mon.-Fri., 9am-5pm • Phone: (585) 244-8640 • Fax: (585) 244-8246 • Website: www.gayalliance.org Empty Closet Phone: (585) 244-9030 • Empty Closet Fax: (585) 244-8246 • Empty Closet Advertising: (585) 244-9030 • Empty Closet E-mail: [email protected] Board President Tom Ferrarese • Executive Director Sue Cowell • Administrative Assistant Laura McSpadden • Program Director Scott Fearing Empty Closet Editor Susan Jordan • Graphics Jim Anderson • Community Safety Kelly Clark • Development Brian Doran Victim Advocate Kelly Baumgartner Youth Services Coordinator Jessica Cohen • CampusOut Assistant Mariam Mull • Outreach Coordinator Jeanne Gainsburg • AmeriCorps Member Sean Soper Youth Group: Youth Center, 1st Floor - Ages 13-23 Sundays 2-4 pm; Ages 18-25 Sundays 4:30-6pm • http://youth .gayalliance.org for after school schedule and special events. The Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley is a non-profit agency, dedicated to cultivating a healthy, inclusive environment where gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans-gender (GLBT) people are safe, thriving and enjoying equal rights. We are a coalition of individuals and groups working to empower GLBT people, to affirm their identities, and to create an atmosphere where the diversity of our community can thrive both collectively and separately. We educate and advocate for civil rights for all and for the eradication of homophobia. 12 B THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY. NUMBER 432 • MARCH 2010 Resources Strong Memorial Hospital Huther Doyle Monroe County Women's Health AIDS provides a complete range of HIV medical care, 360 East Ave" Rochester 14604, Offers drug, Partnership Free testing for HIV exposure including access to experimental treatment pro­ alcohol prevention, education, treatment. Risk 111 Westfall Rd" Rochester NY 14692; is available from New York State Department of tocols, and HIV testing, Also provides individual Reduction Plus Team offers servcies to HIV posi­ (585)274-6978, Comprehensive breast cancer Health: call Rochester Area Regional Hotline at and group psychotherapy, Training of health care tive and those at risk through substance use, screening services for uninsured and underin­ (585) 423-8081, or 1-800-962-5063 for pay professionals also available, Infectious Disease Programs include outreach, transitional case sured women, phones or calls outside Rochester, Deaf or hear­ Clinic, (585) 275-0526, Department of Psychia­ management, free cconfidential testing (Ora­ Elizabeth Wende Breast Clinic ing impaired people should call (585)423-8120 try, (585) 275-3379, AIDS Training Project, (585) Quick Rapid Testing), NYS Dep't. of Health offers 170 Sawgrass Drive, 442-8432, Dr, Wende (TOO,) New Rapid HIV Testing now available­ 275-5693, free on-site confidential and anonymous testing, Logan-Young and an all-woman staff provide test results in 30-40 minutes! Statewide informa­ Planned Parenthood of Rochester and (585)325-5100, M-F 8 am-9 pm, www.huther­ mammograms, tion can be obtained by calling 1-800-541-AIDS, doyle,com, Genesee Valley SHARE: Self Help for Women with Breast or Other organizations which provide AIDS-related offers testing and information (585) 546 2595, Geneva Community Health services are as follows: Ovarian Cancer Rural HIV testing 601 W. Washington St., Geneva, Provides HIV NYS Hotline: 1-866-53SHARE or 1-866-537- AIDS Care anonymous and confidential, in Alleghany, Liv­ testing, HIV specialty and primary care for resi­ 4273. AIDS Care, the leading provider of HIV/AIDS ser­ dents of Ontario and surrounding counties, ingston, Ontario, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, AIDS Rochester Women's Health Outreach vices in Rochester and the Finger Lakes, was Wayne or Yates Counties, call 1-800-962-5063, Mon,-Thurs, 9 am-5 pm; Fridays 9 am-noon, formed by the January 2010 merger of AIDS 315-781-8448, 259 Monroe Ave, ARI has services for HIV posi­ Community Health Center and AIDS Rochester, Action Front Center tive women and others in the lesbian commu­ On-site services include: HIV testing and limited (Action for a Better Community,) Provides HIV FAMILY nity, 442-2220, STD screenings, Primary and HIV Specialty Medi­ prevention education and case management ser­ Rochester Gay Moms' Group AIDS Community Health Clinic cal Care, Pharmacy, Behavioral Wellness, Case vices, Training and technical assistance to service 259 Monroe Ave, 244-9000; TTY (585)461- Management, Prevention and Education, Clinical providers, Resource library open to public, All Support group for lesbian mommies and wan­ nabe mommies in Rochester and surrounding 9202, HIV and Primary care medical services for Trials, Dental Screenings, Hepatitis CCo-Infection services free and confidential. Multicultural and HIV positive women, their negative partners and Clinic, Housing Services, Laboratory, Nutrition bilingual staff, Jearald Noble, program manager, areas, Subscribe: RochesterGayMoms-sub­ scribe@yahoogroups,com, family members, OB/GYN, HIV pre-test and post­ Services, Peer Interaction, Smoking Cessation, 33 Chestnut St., second floor, Hours 8:30-5 pm, test counseling, Confidential or free HIV testing, Substance Use and Addiction Counseling, Sup­ Monday-Friday, 262-4330; fax 262-4572. Free port Groups, Transportation Services, Treatment anonymous HIV testing on walk-in basis, Tues­ Pride &Joy Families Alternatives for Battered Women Adherence Counseling, and Women's Health days, Wednesdays 1-4 pm, provided through In Rochester, contact Karen Goulet, kgoulet@ 232-7353; TTY 232-1741, Shelter (women only), Care, AIDS Care is also a leader in providing ser­ NYSDOH, Thursdays 1-4 pm at Aenon Baptist PrideandJoyFamilies,org or 244-8640 x 40, counseling, Lesbians, gay men welcome, vices and education to members of the LGBT Church, 175 Genesee St. Gay Fathers Group GAGV Anti Violence Project community, Contact Information: Website: www. Anthony L. Jordan Health Center 585-244-8640 ext 17. For women and men, acRochester,org, Main Office: 259 Monroe Ave" Meets first and third Tuesday, 6:30-8:30pm, Prevention &Primary Care Program GAGV Community Center, 875 E. Main St. Victim Resource Center of Wayne County Rochester, NY 14607; Main Phone: 585-545- Provides Medical Case Management, Mental 7200 - Health Services After Hours: 585-258- lesbian &Gay Family Building Project Newark NY. Hotline 800-456-1172; office Health, Primary Care, HIV Counceling and Testing (315)331-1171; fax (315)331-1189, 3363; Case Management After Hours (Lifeline): using the Orasure Rapid Test, Education presen­ Claudia E. Stallman, Project Director, Ferre 585-275-5151; Fax: 585-244-6456, Finger tations, and access to other Jordan services, Pre­ Institute, Inc, 124 Front St., Binghampton, NY Mary Magdalene House Lakes Office: 605 W. Washington St., Geneva, vention & Primary Care is a walk-in program; no 13905, Phone: (607) 724-4308; Fax: (607) Women's outreach center for HIV positive NY 14456,315-781-6303, Southern Tier Office: appointments necessary, Office hours: Mon,- Fri., 724-8290; E-mail: [email protected]: women and women at risk, 291 Lyell Ave, Open 122 Liberty St. POBox 624, Bath, NY 14810 8:30am- 5 pm: extended hours on Monday until Web: www.PrideAndJoyFamilies.org Mon-Fri. 6:30-9:30 pm 458-5728, 607-776-9166, The Health Outreach Project: 416 8 pm, (585) 423-2879; fax (585) 423-2876, Central Ave" Rochester, NY 14605; 585-454-5556, Families Joined by Love Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/Syra­ Website: www.jordanhealth,org, For more infor­ Books and resources for LGBT families, cuseRegion Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley mation, call Program Director Patrick M, Trevor, www.familiesjoinedebylove,org, 114 University Ave" Rochester, NY 14605; Toll­ provides referrals to physicians and service agen­ (585) 423-2879, Parents, Families and Friends of free Helpline: 1-866-600-6886, Planned Parent­ cies, (585) 244-8640; www.gayalliance,org CDC National STD and AIDS Hotline lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) hood has led the way in providing high quality, Victory Alliance 1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) 24 hours PFLAG's threefold mission: supporting parents affordable reproductive health care since 1916, University of Rochester Medical Center, One of a day, TTY service: 1-888-232-6348, E-mail and family members in coming out process; Our experienced and compassionate medical staff several research sites worldwide that comprise address: cdcinfo@cdc,gov, educating the community; advocating on behalf will listen to your concerns and answer your ques­ tions in a warm, welcoming atmosphere, All our the HIV Vaccine Trials Network, Rochester site Fair Housing Enforcement Project of of LGBT family members, Regular meetings conducts research vaccine studies sponsored by open to family members, friends: first Tuesday services are confidential. We accept most insur­ Monroe County ances; including Medicaid, You may even qualify National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the attempt 585-325-2500; 1-800-669-9777. Deals with potluck supper, 6-8 pm, St. Thomas Episco­ to discover a vaccine that may one day prevent pal Church, corner Winton and Highland; third for low- to no-cost family planning services, When housing discrimination on basis of race, orienta­ you make your appointment, be sure to ask about HIV infection or AIDS, Imagine aworld without tion, HIV status, etc, Sunday support and business meeting, 2-4 AIDS, learn how you can help create it. 585-756- pm, Nopper Room, fifth floor, Auditorium Cen­ our sliding scale fees, No one is turned away for 2329; www.vaccineunit.org, Public Interest Law Office of Rochester ter, 875 E, Main St. PFLAG@gagv,us; 585- lack of ability to pay, 80 St. Paul St., Suite 701. Free legal services to 244-8640 x27, Center for Health and Behavioral Training of HIV positive persons, families, Spanish bilingual POLITICAL: Monroe County advocates available, All civil cases except divorce; National Organization for Women 853 Main St., Rochester 14611. Collaboration no criminal cases, Ask to speak to someone in LGBT HEALTH (Greater Rochester NOW) of Monroe County Health Department and U,R, PILOR, 454-4060, For a list of LGBT-friendly and competent health PO Box 93196; (585)234-7019, E-mail: info@ Provides year-round training in prevention and and human service providers in the Rochester rochesternow,org Web page: http://www.roch­ management of STDs, HIV, TB and related issues, Evergreen Health Services, Buffalo and Finger Lakes area, visit the resource direc­ esternow,org, such as domestic violence and case manage­ Primary care, HIV and family care, HIV testing and tory page(s) at www.everybodysgood.com. These ment. (585)753-5382 v/tty, counseling, (716) 847-0328 pages are compiled and managed by AIDS Care, CULTURAL: Westside Health Services If you are a provider, or know of one, who would Rochester Women's Community Chorus Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/ 234-4441, (See Ongoing calendar), Syracuse Region Brown Square Health Center, 175 Lyell Ave, (254- like to be included, contact them through the 114 University Ave" Rochester, NY 14605; Toll­ 6480); Woodward health Center, 480 Genesee website or contact Erik Libey directly at (585) 210-4192, ONLINE: free Helpline: 1-866-600-6886, Offers confiden­ St. (436-3040), HIVIAIDS services, support, more, RochesterDykes: tial HIV testing and information, When you make McCree McCuller Wellness Center at Unity www.rdykes.com ; your appointment, be sure to ask about our slid­ Health's Connection Clinic WOMEN e-mail [email protected] ing scale fees, No one is turned away for lack of (585) 368-3200, 89 Genesee St., Bishop Kear­ ability to pay, HEALTH: WOWcny: ney Bldg" 3rd floor, Full range of servcies, regard­ Highland Hospital Breast Imaging Center e-mail: [email protected] less of ability to pay, Caring, confidential and Rochester Area Task Force on AIDS 500 Red Creek Drive, Rochester 14623; 585- Rochester NY Lesbians; convenient. A collection of agencies providing a multiplicity of 487-3300, Specializing in breast health, diag­ groups,aol,com/rochstrlesbians resources and services to the upstate New York Catholic Charities AIDS Services nostic breast imaging and treatment and community, Their offices are located through the A multicultural and bi-lingual staff providing ser­ mammography outreach and education, GENERAL: Finger Lakes Health Systems Agency, which also vices to a diversity of people infected and affected Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester Women's Resource Center provides medical literature and newspaper clip­ with HIVlntensive home-based case management YWCA, 175 N, Clinton Ave, 546-7740, pings, as well as demographic and statistical data 840 University Ave,; 585-473-8177; www.bccr, for all ages; a clinical crisis manager; a child/ org; email: info@bccr,org, Breast Cancer Coali­ Color Outside the line Crew for use in developing health care services, (585) adolescent case worker; transitional case man­ 461-3520, tion provides support services that include Brown Contact Jackie Williams, 482-4945, agement for children and family members going Bag Fridays: an informal discussion group that MOCHA Center through bereavement; recreational and support meets weekly from 12:00-1 :30; Breast Cancer Check our monthly and ongoing Calendars and HIV prevention focus for men who have sex with groups for children and teens, and camping expe­ 101 and 201: programs designed to help those the Gay Groups section for more woman-centered men (MSM) in the minority community, Support riences including Camp SOAR, We coordinate coping with a recent breast cancer diagnosis and groups and events, and call the GaySource Info­ groups, one on one peer education, safer sex HOPWA (Housing Opportunities for People with those coping with an advanced breast cancer fine for referrals, at 244-8640 or see WlNliv.gayal­ fiance,org, And send us your information! workshops, referral services, buddy testing, 107 AIDS) short term emergency assistance with rent! diagnosis; Sister Sak: a program that addresses Liberty Pole Way, 420-1400, mortgage/utility payments and limited subsidized the issues facing young women with breast can­ housing, 1945 E, Ridge Rd" Suite 24, Rochester cer; and the Advanced Breast Cancer Support Monroe County Health Department NY 14622, (585) 339-9800, at 855 W. Main St., offers testing and counseling Group to support women living with metastatic for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases, breast cancer, The Breast Cancer Coalition also (585)753-5481, provides information about breast cancer, a lend­ ing library, and a monthly educational program, All BCCR programs and support services are free, MARCH 2010 • NUMBER 432 • GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • THE EMPTY CLOSET B 13

made up of singles, couples, men, and members' homes. We have celebrated the women, young and young at heart; when Chinese New Year with a special din­ we aren't learning new calls, we are telling ner, learned about massage, soaked in a stories, jokes, and lively anecdotes. We hot tub, watched a film about our yearly GrQUps usually learn a couple of new calls each national gathering and even started dis­ night, and if we make mistakes, our caller cussing plans for Jones Pond, Hillside and will review the calls for us. We are a very the Pride Picnic this summer. The most BUTCH FEMME easy-going group, and missteps happen. important thing we do as social nudists, CONNECTION There will someone there to guide you to of course, is simply to enjoy one another's where you need to be. The night is for fun company and the uninhibited discussions The Rochester Butch-Femme Connec­ and having a good time. and sharing which come about. tion supper club will have two events in For more information, call Matt 520- By the way, if you are planning on March 2010. 5358, or e-mail [email protected]. attending the Rochester Erotic Arts Fes­ On March 13, we will meet at Famous Hope to see you soon. tival at Harro East on March 27 or 28, Dave's BBQ on West Ridge Road in please make it a point to stop by our dis­ Greece at 7 p.m. play and say hello. There will also be a On March 27, we will meet at Mike's ROCHESTER GLBTQI naturist swim at 6 p.m. on the 27th in New York Diner in the Winton Place MOTORCYCLE GROUP conjunction with the event. plaza off South Winton Road in Henri­ As we always say, social nudism may Our bikes are in our garages wait­ etta at 7 p.m. not be for everyone. If you think you may ing for warmer weather! Some are lucky For further information on the Con­ be interested, however, please consider enough to ship their bikes to Florida for nection, email [email protected] or visiting our website at www.wnyromans. a week of riding in the warmer weather! call Kerry/Max at (585) 288-7208. com. We now have a Facebook page -- check Our last meet at Equal Grounds on out Rochester Butch Femme Connection! the second Friday was successful. Our See you there .... group is made up of newbies, people who STEPPING OUT At a ROMANS swim. put on a lot of mileage, and long time bik­ WHEN IN ROME ... EMPIRE BEARS ers. We are all joined, apart from the obvi­ have several families who brought along ous, by our sport, and helping each other. By Jeanne Gainsburg their children for the swim, but that What do bears do in the winter? Con­ A real nice group of people! Some LGBT community groups have they haven't seen children there in many trary to popular belief, they do not hiber­ For more information, look at our been more comfortable for me to visit than years. An interesting discussion followed nate. They wake up occasionally, wander Yahoo group profile: RochesterGLBTQ others. For instance, going for a walk on about the heightened fear among parents out looking for some food or fun, then go Ibikers. You can also call Bob at 478- a beautiful day with the Women's Hiking of pedophilia and the misunderstanding back to sleep. 1565, or e-mail bmdaniels@frontiernet. Group? Easy peasy. Chopping vegetables that naturist groups are sexual groups. In March, the Empire Bears will be net. Let's ride with pride! with the Men's Cooking Group? A snap! Sex and drugs are not allowed at any of out on the prowl for food and fun every Joining the ROMANS (Rochester Male these events. Naturists) for one of their nude swims? weekend. The Empire Bears will find RAINBOW SAGE OF THE I also asked the men, "Why nudity?" both at Bearnight at the FORUM, on Sat­ Yikes!!! For me, this was kind of like the And I got these responses: urday, March 6. We'll be scratching some GENESEE VALLEY time when I was 14 and my cousin Paul "It's fun." bet me $20 I wouldn't jump off a 50 foot backs and rubbing some tummies, sniff­ By Tony Perri "It makes everyone equal." ing out some friends and fun. We hope dive platform into a lake. I knew if I "I believe there is a bit of an exhibi- In February I represented Rainbow thought about it too long I would chicken you'll join us there. SAGE ( Services and Advocacy for GLBT tionist in all of us." Many members will attend an Oscar out. For the record, I took the 50 foot "It feels good to swim naked." Elders) at The National Conference on plunge and Cousin Paul still owes me the party the next night, thrown annually LGBT Equality "Creating Change" in "It's something different to do." by one of our favorite couples. The next 20 bucks. Loser. Well, last month I took "I have always loved to be naked, even Dallas. the plunge with the ROMANS and I'm week, the BEARS host their monthly pot­ A significant portion of this con­ as a kid." luck at the GAGY Youth Center on Sat­ pleased to report that I had a blast! ference dealt with aging in our LGBT "Conversations are real and hon­ urday evening the 13th. The ROMANS meet the first Sat­ community. A day-long institute, "Old est when people are nude. There's no In February, we had a good crowd urday of the month at a local diner for and Fearless: Aging, Ageism, and the bullshit." and tried many vegetarian dishes, but in a clothed dinner at 5:45 p.m. I began LBGT Community," was sponsored by After a bit of hot tubbing, some of March we're going back to an Empire my evening there, where I was welcomed SAGE and designed for individuals facing the guys decided to get a volleyball game Bear favorite: Mexican food. Anyone is warmly by the members (there were about homophobia in the mainstream senior­ going. I thought they were going to set up welcome. Bring a dish to share. We've got 15 of them that evening) and I was able serving community and aging issues in a net in the pool, but instead they dried paper, plastic, and pop. to gather some information about the our community. off and headed for the gym. OK, just Saturday, March 20 will find the group. I found out that the ROMANS Getting ready to make changes as we so you know, I have played clothed vol­ BEARS at the RGMC concert at Hoch­ are a social group that began in 1991. age and using our lifetime skills and expe­ leyball for over 30 years. Nude volleyball stein Music Hall. The concert's at 8 p.m., The group was formerly known as Host­ riences to effect changes in our life were sounded comical, exposing and painful, so get there early. The next morning, ing Upstate Nude Guys or HUNG, but the focuses of this institute. We at Rain­ but I was going whole hog that night, so I we'll meet at the Hylan Drive Borders at apparently, some found the name a bit bow SAGE are committed to ending the followed the men to the gym. 11, then carpool down to Short Track for intimidating. (LOL!) They welcome all negative stereotypes of aging and ageism, I was immediately placed on a team pancakes at the Maple Tree Inn. men who are LGBT or LGBT-friendly. i.e. "younger is better," which are rampant (these guys truly are so welcoming) and The last weekend of March will find Membership is around 30 men, ranging in this country and in our LG BT com­ we started a game. Ready position felt many of our members at Drenched Fur in age from mid-twenties to seventies. munity. extremely... urn ... revealing, there was in Erie. We'll party at the water park and One man told me he travels all the way "OUTING AGE 2010: Public Policy up from Brooklyn because he hasn't been no way I was jumping without my sports have a great time with old friends from bra, and I didn't even want to think about Erie, Pittsburgh, Buffalo, and beyond. Issues Affecting LGBT Elders," was just able to find a naturist group in the NYC published and released by the National area that is as fun and welcoming as the where I might get a floor burn if I dove, A question we're often asked is where but we batted the ball back and forth for does the money from our collections go? Gay and Lesbian Task Force Policy Insti­ ROMANS. tute. This was a updating of the original After dinner, at around 7 p.m., every­ a while and had a lot of fun. In the last month, we made a donation By the time we got back to the pool it to the GAGY Empty Closet Preservation study published in 2000 and is an impor­ one drove over to the Harro East Ath­ tant publication. In 2000, the federal gov­ letic Club on Andrews Street. Because had filled up. There were a total of about Fund. The goal is to get all the issues of 55 men and five women that evening. I the oldest gay newspaper in NY on easy ernment noted in its Healthy People 2010 this nude swim was a combined event campaign that LGBT individuals face with Naturist Rochester, a family friendly, took one more dip in the pool, said my to use and preserve computer discs. We thank yous and headed out. By 9:30 also donated to Hospice, in memory of a specific and magnified health vulnerabili­ clothing-free recreation group, I was invit­ p.m. I was dressed, in my car and asking member's mom. ties. LGBT elders also reported an almost ed to attend. When I got there I headed myself, "Did I really just play volleyball Anything else you'd like to learn about universal fear and anxiety about care for the women's locker room (not that it with 11 nude guys?" Yup, I did! And I still the Empire Bears can probably be found provision by strangers in assisted living mattered, as both locker rooms are open respected myself in the morning. at www.empirebears.org. Membership is and nursing care settings. In the coming to everyone during these events). I admit If you are looking for an opportunity only $10. We welcome new friends. We months we will discuss these issue more in I was nervous when it came time to strip to get out, meet some very cool people and have an email group on Yahoo to keep depth. "Outing Age 2010" may be viewed down, but as I had learned at age 14, it's do something a little different with your members informed and updated. Con­ and downloaded at sagenet.com. best not to think about it for too long or weekend, you should consider joining the sider joining and meeting a great bunch I encourage you to attend our Inter­ dwell on thoughts like "the number of ROMANS. These guys are a great group. of guys. WOOF! generational Panel on March 21 in the people who have seen me naked is about GAGY Youth Center. Young people often to triple." So I got naked, took a quick The ROMANS' shapes and sizes varied feel left outside the mainstream LGBTQ shower and (GULP!) stepped out into the greatly, but their attitudes all seemed simi­ GAY SQUARE DANCE movement, while LGBT elders experi­ pool area. lar: relax and enjoy! GROUP - THE LILAC ence their own set of challenges aging in There were about 30 people in the Dues are $15 a year for an individu­ SQUARES a youth centric LGBTQ community. Tell­ pool; only two of them were women. My al, $25 for a couple. Dinner meetings at ing our stories can bridge this gap. For naked walk from the locker room door members' homes take place once a month Our class has been progressing quick­ more information, access our website at over to the far end of the pool, where I and require a $7 fee to the host for the ly, and our club has been dancing around Rainbow SAGE.net. spotted some ROMANS, seemed like food. Swims are free the first time and with other square dance clubs in the area. Thanks and we look forward to Spring! a three mile trek, but by the time I had after that $12 for ROMANS. Some We are breaking new ground with those slipped into the water and swum over swims are men only. Other events include dancers who aren't used to having a man ROMANS to the guys I was already feeling more at summertime nude camping, workshops at dancing in the Belle position! ease. These men are so comfortable with the Northeast Naturist Festival, nude din­ Also, one of our members danced with Winter and Spring continue to be nudity that I found, before too long, it ner at a local restaurant, participation in a group in Palm Springs California; he quite busy times for the Rochester Male was easy to forget we were all naked. the Gay Naturist International gathering had a great time. The Lilac Squares meets Naturists. In fact, our community has I chatted with the guys and I asked in the Poconos, as well as clothed events at each Monday at the Open Arms Metro­ grown lately as we have welcomed several them a couple of questions that were on local museums, concerts, plays, etc. politan Community Church located on new members and guests. my mind. One was, "If this is a family For more information on the ROMANS 740 Marshall Rd. at 7 p.m. Besides our monthly swims and din­ event, where are the children?" The men check out their website at: http://www.wny­ We are a lively and friendly group ing out, we continue our gatherings at told me that Naturist Rochester used to romans. com or e-mail: elvishz/[email protected] . • 14 B THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • NUMBER 432 • MARCH 2010

sion with local medical experts about School, 50 N. Plymouth, 7 p.m., Doors AIDS Care Offices (259 Monroe Ave.) HPY, vaccines, anal health for gay, bisex­ open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $20 gen­ Free event, dinner provided. RSVP & ual men. 6:30pm-8pm, GAGV Youth eral admission; $10 student/seniors; at invitation REQUIRED. Contact Erik at March Center (875 E. Main St.) Free, open to Equal=Grounds, Parkleigh, Aaron's Alley, (585) 210-4192 to see if this group is right all. Refreshments provided. Information: select Planned Parenrhood locations, for you and your partner! MONDAY 1 contact Erik, (585) 210-4192 online at www.pprsr.org. ASL interpreted. TUESDAY 24 Butch Femme Connection Dinner Inqueery: The Celluloid Closet. TUESDAY 9 LGBT Health Month Event: Love Out. Famous Dave's BBQ on West Ridge Screening, discussion. 6:30-8:30 pm, LGBT Health Month Event: Just Us Your Boobs," presented by "Rated F" at Road in Greece at 7 p.m. DressyFemme@ GAGV Youth Center, first floor, 875 E. Guys potluck. (Formerly Atlantic 5.0). the GAGV Youth Center (875 E. Main aol.com or call Kerry/Max at (585) 288- Main St. Facilitator: Kelly Clark. www. 6:30 pm, AIDS Care, 529 Monroe Ave. St.). 7-9 pm. Interactive workshop; par­ 7208. gayalliance.org (Inqueery listing under (dining area). Free; open to gay, bisexual ticipants invited to make and decorate Empire Bears potluck. Mexican Education tab). The Oscars are March 7! men of all ages. Ron, 223-2629. of their breasts/chest while food. GAGV Youth Center, 875 E. Main plaster cast LGBT Health Month Event: "Diag­ discussing breast health. $10 optional TUESDAY 2 St. www.empirebears.org Inqueery. Coming Out: A Process nosing Difference". Free repeat screen­ suggested donation. Intended for women For Everyone. Info at 244-8640, ext ing of documentary from ImageOut 2009 SUNDAY 14 and people of trans experience ages 18+ 20; www.gayalliance.org (Inqueery listing that explores the GID (Gender Iden­ 'What the Bible Says - and Doesn't ONLY! RSVP by no later than March under Education tab). tity Disorder) classification and how it Say - About Homosexuality." Talk by 8 bye-mail [email protected]. impacts trans people's lives. Film followed H. Darrell Lance in series "The Bible and Information: www.ratedf.wordpress.com. FRIDAY 5 by a discussion/panel. AIDS Care Offices LG BT Experience: Beginning the Con­ Celebrating Queen. The Bohemian (259 Monroe Ave.) Open to all. Light versation." 4 pm, Lenten Choral Even­ WEDNESDAY 24 Rhapsody Orchestra. 9 pm, Water St. snacks. Information: Erik at (585)210- song; 5 pm, Lecture and Discussion. LGBT Health Month Event: "The Music Hall, 204 N. Water St. 16 and over 4192. Sponsored by Christian Faith and LGBT Nearly-Wed Game." 7 pm, GAGV Youth Center (875 E. Main St.) Your favorite with ID; $15 advance, $20 at door. Tick­ THURSDAY 11 Experience. St. Paul's Episcopal Church, etmaster or 1-800-745-3000. East Ave. at Westminster. cfle.groupsite. Rochester LG BT couples face off in re-do "Looking Through My Glass" open­ LGBT Health Month Event: Second of popular game show. But discrimination Thursdays Social and Business Net­ com. ing reception. New work by Beth Bloom, ImageArt Information and volunteer is no game -- we'll explore the ways same­ 7-10 pm, Equal=Grounds Coffee House, working Cocktail Party. Free, 5:30-7:30. sex couples try to protect their families Out & Equal Monthly Networking Social meeting. Seeking input from local artists 750 South Ave. and poets on planning 2010 exhibition without full 1,324 NY State and 1,138 Event. Cash bar. Raffle to benefit Pride Federal rights of civil marriage. Find out SATURDAY 6 2010. Radisson Hotel by RIT (175 Jeffer­ and reading. 10:30 am, Equal=Grounds, LGBT Health Month Event: Free 750 South Ave. RSVP to imageart@ima­ what's planned in 2010 to advance mar­ son Rd.) For information or to RSVP, visit riage equality by Pride at Work, Marriage Spades Tournament! Hosted by Out & Equal web site, https://oenyfin­ geout.org by March 10. MoCHA Center (107 Liberty Pole Way). Dignity Integrity Roman Catholic Equality New York, Civil Rights Front, gerlakes.groupsite.com or e-mail Thom­ EROC, more. Open to all. 2 pm. Space limited, RSVP [email protected]. Liturgy of the Word. 5 pm, St. Luke St. to Judith at (585)420-1400 ext. 24. Simon Cyrene Church, 121 S. Fitzhugh THURSDAY 25 Empire Bears Bearnight at the FRIDAY 12 St. ''Anyone and Everyone". Free screen­ St. Patty's Party. Drug and alcohol­ Forum. 670 University Ave. www.empire­ TUESDAY 16 ing of documentary on parents of lesbian bears.org free event for LGBTQ youth and allies, and gay children. 7-8 pm, Honeoye Falls­ 13-23. 7-10 pm, DJ dancing, games, arts LGBT Health Month Event: " Lima High School, 83 East St., Hon­ SUNDAY 7 & crafts, light desserts, drag performanc­ Make Your Own Sex Toys" presented eoye Falls. PFLAG members will lead Dignity Integrity Full Episcopal es. $3/person. Gay Alliance Youth Center, by "Rated F" at the GAGV Youth Center discussion following film. Honeoye Falls Eucharist with music. 5 pm, St. Luke first floor, 875 E. Main St. 244-8640 ext (875 E. Main St.) 7 pm-9 pm. Interac­ Community Programs, 585-624-7068 or St. Simon Cyrene Church, 121 S. Fit­ 13; [email protected]. tive workshop on how to make your own hflcsd,org. For information on schedul­ zhugh St. LGBT Health Month: National sex toys, care for them properly, use them ing a screening, contact PFLAG @gayal­ LGBT Health Month Event: FREE Week of Prayer and Healing for AIDS. safely (alone and/or with partners). Free, liance.org. Queer Self Defense Class presented by Service and panel presentation on the but for ages 18+ only! Information: e-mail Rated F and GAGV Anti-Violence Proj­ Black church and LGBT people in the [email protected] or visit www.rat­ LGBT Health Month: ImageOut screens three free films at the Cinema, ect at United Martial Arts Center (1748 struggle against HIV, hosted by Memo­ edf.wordpress.com. 957 South Ave. 6 pm: "U-Haul Rap" Monroe Ave.) 1 pm-3 pm. Space limited, rial AME Zion Church (549 Clarissa St.) THURSDAY 18 e-mail RSVP by March 5 to ratedfteam@ Free, open to all. Information: Jackie at LGBT Health Month Event: Trans­ (short), followed by "Swimming with Les­ gmail.com. For more information visit (585)210-4126. Co-sponsored by Tawa gender Healthcare Panel presented by bians." 7:30: Meet ImageOut at Informa­ www.ratedfwordpress.com. Pano UFC; Gay Alliance Community MoCHA Center and Gay Alliance. 6 pm, tion Cafe. 8:30 pm: "Dare". MONDAY 8 Safety Program. GAGV Youth Center (875 E. Main St.) FRIDAY 26 LGBT Health Month Event: "Tales SATURDAY 13 Join panel of transgender Rochesterians to Colorfest 2010. NTID at RIT pres­ from the Backside!" Frank, fun discus- The Vagina Monologues. Hochstein discuss challenges faced by people of trans ents third annual Colorfest for Deaf experience when accessing healthcare in LGBT studenrs. Opening ceremony, our community. Information: Judith at workshops, evening social, performing (585)420-1400 ext. 24. arts, more. Hearing and straight allies Inqueery. Understanding Human welcome. Through March 28. Informa­ Sexual Identity. Info at 244-8640 ext tion: www.colorfest201O.com. 20; www.gayalliance.org (Inqueery listing under Education tab). SATURDAY 27 Butch Femme Connection dinner SATURDAY 20 night. Mike's New York Diner in Win­ e assifie s Vernal equinox ton Place plaza off South Winton Road Empire Bears meet 11 am at Hylan in Henrietta, 7 p.m. DressyFemme@aoi. Drive Borders, car pool to Short Track Classified ads are $5 for the first 30 words; each additional 10 words is anoth­ com or call Kerry/Max at (585) 288-7208. for pancakes at Maple Tree Inn. www. er $1. We do not bill for classifieds, so please send or bring ad and payment to: empirebears.org SUNDAY 28 The Empty Closet, 875 E. Main Street, Suite 500, Rochester, NY 14605. Paying Inqueery. Volleyball with LGBT Dignity Integrity Prayers to Start by check: checks must be made out to Gay Alliance or GAGV. The deadline is Flare. Info at 244-8640 ext 20; www. the Week, followed by traditional potluck the 15th of the month, for the following month's issue. We cannot accept ads gayalliance.org (Inqueery listing under dinner. 5 pm, St. Luke St. Simon Cyrene over the phone. Pay when you place your ad. We will accept only ads accom­ Education tab). Church, 121 S. Fitzhugh St. panied by name and phone number. Neither will be published, but we must be HER. All-woman multi-media art Pride 2010: Casino Tea at Nasty D's, able to confirm placement. The Empty Closet is not responsible for financial show by Sistas Sayin' Somethin' (SSS). Broadway and Alexander. 4-7 pm. loss or physical injury that may result from any contact with an advertiser. The Flying Squirrel, 285 Clarissa St. Sug­ Advertisers must use their own box number, voice mail, e-mail or personal TUESDAY 30 gested donation $10/$15 (no one turned address/phone number. LGBT Health Month Event: away). 8-11 pm. 442-5432. Inqueery: "Eating Disorders & the LGBT Health Month Event: Roches­ Queer Community". 7 pm. Interactive SERVICES ter Gay Men's Chorus concert. "Getting' workshop will outline general informa­ Rochester's Best Man to Man Rub­ Martin Ippolito, master electrician. Lucky." 8 pm, Hochstein, 50 N. Plym­ tion about eating disorders and their doc­ down. Spring is coming and possibly this Electrical work, phone jacks, cable TV, outh. Tickets $15: Parkleigh, Outlandish, umented impact on LGBTQ people; also month, so get out there and celebrate with burglar alarm systems, paddle fans. Call The Creator's Hands, Equal=Grounds or address body image and cultural expec­ a full bodyrub. I'm a degreed, employed, 585-266-6337. www.thergmc.org; 423-0650. tations; etiology; self-esteem; impact of fit, friendly, healthy, Italian GWM. Mid­ PERSONALS SUNDAY 21 eating disorders on relationships; commu­ dle aged, 5'8", 165 lbs. 32" waist, non­ WGF looking for WGF. Must like Dignity Integrity Quiet Episcopal nity resources and recovery. GAGV Youth smoker, D & D free, HIV negative. My dogs and cats. I like outdoors, camp­ Eucharist. 5 pm, St. Luke St. Simon Center (875 E. Main St.) Information: 10 plus years experience ensures your ing, being near water. I like to watch Cyrene Church, 121 S. Fitzhugh St. Jess Cohen at (585) 244-8640; www.gay­ relaxation and satisfaction. Hotel, cen­ DVDs, go to movies, go to tractor pulls, LGBT Health Month Event: Rain­ alliance.org (Inqueery listing under Edu­ tral location incalls or outcalls in your car races, wrestling, social drinking, no bow SAGE Intergenerational Panel. cation tab). residence. Reasonable rates, discretion drugs. Looking for ages from 38 to 70. "Self acceptance". Panel of LGBT elders, WEDNESDAY 31 assured. Don't delay, call me today at 585- I am heavyset, looking for someone who Gay Alliance Youth group members. Free, LGBT Health Month Event: "LGBT 773-2410 (cell) or 585-235-6688(home) doesn't mind small or big. I do smoke 4 pm, Gay Alliance Youth Center, 875 E. Healthcare Equality" Workshop (Dan­ or email me at: magichands@rochester. cigarettes. If you want to respond, call J C, Main St. Refreshments. 872-2631 ext 3. sville NY). Learn what you need to know rr.com 315-651-4002. ASL Interpreter. about creating and using healthcare proxy W. Shawn Cignarale, Interior FOR SALE Tara's Reunion. Noon-? At Abilene, to protect your legal rights with regard to 107 Liberty Pole Way. Designer. Specialties include refinish­ Malibu outdoor lights. 50-foot string healthcare. 6 pm-8 pm. Hosted by AIDS ing hardwood floors, painting, wallpaper­ of four. Brand new, never unboxed. $79 MONDAY 22 Care & the Dansville Gay Men's Group. ing, woodwork and ceramic tiles. Other value for $65. 385-793l. LGBT Health Month Event: Oppo­ Location: St. Peter's Episcopal Church services include designing silk and fresh Puppies. AKC Chihuahua puppies sites Attract Group. New group for gay/ in Dansville (corner of Clara Barton & floral arrangements. E-mail me at mysti­ for sale. All shots. Excellent health. $800. bi male couples in which one partner is School Streets). Free, open to public. [email protected] for price quotes. 585-698-8157. • HIV-positive and the other HIV-negative. Information: Erik at (585) 210-4192 . • MARCH 2010 • NUMBER 432 • GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • THE EMPTY CLOSET B 15

Guys Night Out AQA Third Sarurdays. Social group for transguys. 1 pm, Support group for transgender people of color. Equal=Grounds, 750 South Ave. tguysnightout@ Third Thursdays, 5:30-7pm, MOCHA, 107 gmail.com. Liberty Pole Way. 420-1400. Saturday Night Special Gay AA Second Thursdays 7pm, Unitarian Church, 220 Winton Rd. S. Men Gay Alliance Board of Directors and women. Open meeting. LGBT Support Group Meets Third Wednesdays, 6 pm, Social and business nerworking, 5:30-7:30 pm. 34 Meigs St. First, 3rd Mondays, 7:30-9 pm. 875 E. Main St. 244-8640 Changing venues. E-mail [email protected] Lilac Rainbow Alliance for the Deaf (LRAD) Carol, 482-3832. (March 1 cancelled) or oenyfingerlakes.groupsite.com. Second Saturdays, 6-9pm. rcoaster@rochester. New Freedom New Happiness rr.com Lilac Squares Gay Square Dance Group AA Gay meeting, 7 pm, Unitarian Church, 220 Gay & Lesbian Cancer Support Group Mondays, 7 fm, Open Arms MCC, Winton Rd. Men and women. Open. Second Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Gilda's 740 Marshal Rd. 520-5358; Clubhouse, 255 Alexander St. RSVP: 423-9700; SUNDAY [email protected]. Equality ROC [email protected] Parents Families & Friends of Lesbians and Second, fourth Wednesdays, 7 pm. For location, Gays (PFLAG) Free syphilis testing info, call Anne, 426-0862. FRIDAY Third Sundays, 2-4 pm. Nopper Room, Gay AIDS Care, 259 Monroe Ave., 5-8 pm. 442-2220. Support Group for Parents Who Gay Men's AA meeting Alliance, fifth floor, 875 E. Main St. PFLAG@ Rochester Historical Bowling Society Have Lost Children Fridays, 7:30-8:30pm, Closed meeting. Emmanuel gayalliance.org. 7:15pm, Mondays. Clover Lanes, First, 3rd Wednesdays, llam-12:30pm, Baptist Church, 815 Park Ave. GAGV library & Archives, David Bohnett 2750 Monroe Ave. (Group is full.) Third Presbyterian Church, 4 Meigs St. Genesee GLBTQI Motorcycle Group Cyber Center HIV Positive Gay Men Support group Region Home Care. Free. 325-1880 Second Fridays, 5:30 pm, Various locations. Every Sunday. 6-8 pm. First floor, 875 E. Main St. 244-8640. Every Monday, 5pm, AIDS Care, COAP RochesterGLBTI [email protected]; 478-1565; 259 Monroe Ave. Come Out and Play. Business meeting last [email protected]. Tawa Pano Unity Fellowship Church GAGVYouth Drop-In Hours Wednesday. Equal Grounds Coffee Shop, 750 SATURDAY Sundays, Warn, 758 South Ave. 617-4279 Mondays, Wednesdays, 2-6pm, GAGV Youth South Ave. 7pm, John S., 261-7263. Rochester Rams Bar Night Dignity-Integrity Center, 875 E. Main St. Prince St. entrance, first Empire Bears 5pm, St. Luke'sISt. Simon Cyrene Church, 17 S. floor. 244-8640, ext 13. Third Saturdays, 8pm-2am, Bachelor Forum, 670 First Wednesdays, 7:45 pm, GAGV Communiry University Ave. 271-6930 Fitzhugh St. Every Sunday, 234-5092 Frontrunners/Frontwalkers Center, 875 E. Main St., fifth floor. info@ Open Arms Metropolitan Community Church empirebears.org Empire Bears Bar Night Mondays, 6pm, George Eastman House parking First Saturdays. Bachelor Forum, 740 Marshall Rd., Chili, 1O:30am. 271-8478 lot. www.rochesterfrontrunners.org. Rochester Rams General Meeting 470 University Ave. www.empirebears.org. Gay Men's Alcoholics Anonymous 2nd Wednesdays, 7:30 pm, Bachelor Forum, 670 Steps Beyond Stems Crack Support Group Frontrunners/Frontwalkers St. Luke'sISt. Simon Cyrene Church, University Ave. www.rochesterrams.com Mondays, 7-8pm, 289 Monroe Ave. 9 am, George Eastman House parking lot.www. 17 S. Fitzhugh St. 8:30pm, 232-6720, Weekly. GAGV library & Archives, David Bohnett Transgender Group rochesterfrontrunners.org. Closed meeting Third Wednesdays, 6:30-9pm, Downtown United Cyber Center Empire Bears Poduck GAGVYouth Group Pres. Church, 121 N. Fitzhugh St. Every Monday. 6-8 pm. First floor, 875 E. Main 2nd Sarurdays, GAGV Youth Center, 875 E. Ages 13-23. Every Sunday, 2-4pm, GAGVYouth St. 244-8640. Multicom-4 Coffee Talk Main, first floor, Prince St. entrance. 6:30pm Center, 875 E. Main St. or satellite location. For 7pm, Spin Cafe, 739 Park Av. Social for former greet; 7pm dinner. Bring dish to pass. www. weekly location check Youth Calendar, www. TUESDAY Multicom-4 BBS members; other GLBT cyber empirebears.org. gayalliance.org or e-mail [email protected]. JustUs Guys geeks welcome, every fourth Wednesday, 8pm Cross Dresser Support Group Gay men of all ages. Second Tuesdays, Rainbow SAGE First Saturdays, 6-9pm, call for location: 6:30pm, AIDS Care, 259 Monroe Ave. 223-2629 Brothers Keeper First Sundays: Euchre Club, 3-6pm. Third Support group for men over 30. Third 251-2132; [email protected] Sundays, Potluck at First Universalist Church, 150 Civil Rights Front Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30pm, MOCHA Center, 107 Transgender Group S. Clinton Ave., 4pm. Every Tuesday, 7 pm, Equai=Grounds, 750 South Liberty Pole Way. 420-1400 Last Saturdays, 2-5pm, Downtown United Ave. http://www.civilrightsfront.wordpress.com Men's Cooking Group GAGVYouth Drop In Hours Presbyterian Church, 121 N. Fitzhugh. Third or fourth Sundays, 355-7664. Two Spirit Group Mondays, Wednesdays, 3-7 pm, GAGVYouth Second Tuesdays, 7:30 pm, Equal=Grounds, 750 Center, 875 E. Main St. Prince St. entrance, first South Ave. floor. 244-8640 ext 13. PFLAG program meeting Married Men's Support Group First Tuesdays. 7-9 pm meeting. Third Wednesdays, 6:30-8 pm. 875 E. Main. AA Meetings in Rochester St. Thomas Church, Winton & Highland. Follow signs for "Charlie's Group". Scott, 585-244- Every week there are four regularly scheduled CampusOut CofIee Night 8640 ext 20. GLBTI AA meetings in Rochester. First Tuesdays, 7-10 pm, Equal=Grounds, 750 Frontrunners/Frontwalkers South Ave. 6pm, Eastman House parking lot. Wednesdays MOCHA Youth Drop-In www.rochesterfrontrunners.org. New Freedom/New Happiness Group Tues.-Fri., 1-9pm, MOCHA Center, 107 Liberty GAGV library & Archives, David Bohnett 7 p.m. at the First Unitarian Church, 220 S. Winton Rd. Bus riders: Take the Pole Way, 420-1400; 244-8640 Cyber Center last #18 University bus to 12 Corners. Use the stop just past the top of the hill MOCHA Hepatitis Clinic Every Wednesday. 6-8 pm. First floor, 875 E. at Hillside Ave. and before Highland Ave. Or take the #1 Park Ave. to the corner Free Hepatitis A & B vaccinations, third Tuesdays, Main St. 244-8640. of East and Winton, then walk five minutes south (uphill) on Winton. This is an 5:30-7pm, 107 Liberty Pole Way, 420-1400 THURSDAY open discussion meeting. All issues - as they relate to our alcoholism/addiction and recovery - are fair game. Rainbow SAGE Yoga Presbyterians for Lesbian and Gay Concerns 6-7pm Open Arms MCC, 125 Norris Drive, 442- 6:30pm, first Thursday. Ralph, 271-7649 6369. Fridays Queer Radical Reading Group Gay Men's Pride 2010 committee meeting First and third Thursdays, 7 pm, Equal=Grounds, 7:30 p.m. Immanuel Baptist Church, 815 Park Ave. Third Tuesdays. GAGV Community Room, first 750 South Ave. floor, 875 E. Main St. 6:30-8 pm. Everyone • Closed meeting, restricted to alcoholics and addicts welcome to plan Pride 2010 Guly 11-18). 244- Pride at Work • Men's meeting 8640. First Thursdays, 5:30pm. 167 Flanders St. off • Handicapped accessible Thurston Rd. 426-0862. This is a round-robin discussion meeting. If you are shy about meeting people or Women's Community Chorus Rehearsals each Tuesday, 6:30-9pm, GLOB&L speaking up in a group, you will find this meeting particularly warm and inviting Downtown United Pres. Church, 121 N. Fitzhugh (Gays and Lesbians of Bausch & Lomb). because everyone gets their turn to speak (or pass). As a result, this meeting St. 234-4441, www.therwcc.org Meets every third Thursday in Area 67 conference often runs long, so plan on more than the usual hour. room at the Optic Center. Free HIVTesting Voice mail: 338-8977 Saturdays Every Tuesday, 9 am-7 pm. AIDS Care, 259 Saturday Night Special Monroe Ave. Rochester Gay Men's Chorus Downtown United Presbyterian Church, 121 N. 7 p.m. at the First Unitarian Church, 220 S. Winton Rd. Bus riders: The #18 WEDNESDAY Fitzhugh St. 6:30-9pm, 423-0650 University Ave. bus does not go by the church on weekend evenings. Take the #1 Park Ave. bus to the corner of East and Winton, then walk five minutes south Tawa Pano Church Bible Study Free confidential walk-in HIV testing Bible study 7:15 pm. 758 South Ave. Every Thursday night, 5-8pm, AIDS Care, 259 (uphill) on Winton. • Open meeting, all are welcome, "straight-friendly" Charlie's Group Monroe Ave. 442-2220 • Mixed men and women Third Wednesdays. Monthly peer-facilitated Partner Bereavement Group • Handicapped accessible, take the elevator to the basement suppport group for married men who have sex First and third Thursdays, 5:30-7pm. Open drop­ with men. Confidential, free. 6:30 pm. For in session; professionally led. Freewill donation to Meeting begins with a speaker, followed by open discussion. location, info: Scott, 244-8640 x 20; ScottF@gagv. hospice requested. Lifetime Care, 3111 Winton us. Sundays Road, 214-1414 Rochester Gay Men Country Line Dancing/Two Stepping MOCHAlGAGVYouth Trans Group 8 p.m. at St. Luke/St. Simon's Episcopal Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St. Bus riders Every Wednesday, Muthers, 40 S. Union, 7 pm, First Thursdays, 5-7pm, GAGV Youth Center, use the Fitzhugh St. stop on Main St. at the County Office Building and walk Lessons followed by dancing until 1Opm, 875 E. Main St., first floor (Prince St. entrance). south one block. Beginners to advanced. 244-8640 ext 13. • Closed meeting, restricted to alcoholics and addicts D.R. Pride Network Catholic Gay & Lesbian Family Ministry • Men 's meeting 7:30 pm, Gamble Room in Rush Rhees Library. • NOT handicapped accessible [email protected] Third Thursday, 7-9pm, School of Good Shepherd Church, 3288 E. Henrietta Rd. 392-2862. Meeting begins with a speaker, followed by open discussion. 16 B THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY. NUMBER 432 • MARCH 2010

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