Issue # 132 • May 21, 2010 News and Entertainment Media for Montrose and Beyond
i . ."Cristan Williams, the Direc- "Get Out! Of The tor of the TG Center gives the Closet!" Is Getting facility its heart. Her personal story influences the work she Everybody Out! does in the community and Exclusive to the Montrose GEM the services that are offered. Her dedication continues the work she started with the late Brenda Thomas and Josephine Tittsworth
The Home that the Community Built Mother of Montrose 2010 By Deborah Moncrief Bell Natty Ice helps those struggling to get out of the closet Jackie Danielle Cristan Williams is a very personable young Williams called and left a message but did . - "I love all the little children of Montrose" woman with a clean, fresh look, a beautiful not hear back from anyone. However that is Talk about a panic at the disco! More photos on Page 9 smile and a sprinkle of freckles across the when things got even darker. A few months We've all heard those shout-outs , bridge of her nose and her cheeks. She is went by and matters had deteriorated to the easy going with a quick laugh and you can point she had written a suicide note and was on the dance floor: "Get it girl!" see the passion in her eyes as she talks about actually in the act of preparing to take her "Go on 'head!" and "Uh, uh, wait the center she directs own life. a minute!" You can now add "Nat- • ,', It" ty Ice if you're nasty!" to that list. Things were not always like this for Wil- Then the phone rang and it was a volunteer 1 liams however. There was a time when she with TATS. Even though the volunteer was 1J!J,' " faced the deepest despair, thinking that her due to rise early for work the next day, they A breakthrough send-up of reality 1,-.... I'll...•'II,:~ . life had no hope. She was unemployed, stayed on the phone until One O'clock in the television, Get Out! Of The Clos- ,;,;~,.i. 'ill •. homeless, using drugs and planned to com- morning. During the course of the call, Wil- et! follows host Natalie ''Natty mit suicide. She also was also not yet a 'she'. liams never mentioned that the call had ac- The Cast of The Larimie Project Ice" O'Sullivan as she crosses the See Page 2 I had come to interview Williams about the tually interrupted her suicide, although she did share that information later. country helping those strugglin~ L I I newly reopened TFA Transgender Center .lI1.r.~_t-h ~'b-'-"'_~ --"~'u__J": ...••..•....---'• !-----J--= I I _'-" . , •••••• _ ;:: H I ••_••••••••""'v •• "" "" p••••&~v•-t;••• ••••••••••• U •••U ••••.'Itl7. smile and a sprinkle of freckles across the when things got even darker. A few months We've all heard those shout-outs bridge of her nose and her cheeks. She is went by and matters had deteriorated to the on the dance floor: "Get it girl!" easy going with a quick laugh and you can point she had written a suicide note and was "Go on 'head!" and "Uh, uh, wait see the passion in her eyes as she talks about actually in the act of preparing to take her .~ .:!... the center she directs own life. a minute!" You can now add "Nat- ty Ice if you're nasty!" to that list. • '.'"i'/ 111 Things were not always like this for Wil- Then the phone rang and it was a volunteer , .,.~ •• , ..•• 'Ii liams however. There was a time when she with TATS. Even though the volunteer was . .,r".. 'If .. " _ faced the deepest despair, thinking that her due to rise early for work the next day, they A breakthrough send-up of reality ~..'.'",'. .' ' .•.. >.~ \ "-...•...; '" . , ,."•• it ~.~,':..: life had no hope. She was unemployed, stayed on the phone until One 0' clock in the television, Get Out! Of The Clos- 'Iii '.". I ~ '<.' ;-~ '. ::-~--, . •• • homeless, using drugs and planned to com- morning. During the course of the call, Wil- et! follows host Natalie "Natty .,' --- .•..... The Cast of The Larimie Project mit suicide. She also was also not yet a 'she'. liams never mentioned that the call had ac- Ice" O'Sullivan as she crosses the tually interrupted her suicide, although she See Page 2 I had come to interview Williams about the country helping those struggling did share that information later. newly reopened TFA Transgender Center with their sexuality in a direct, in Houston (TG Center), not realizing just Williams still has that note but it only serves rio-nonsense, in-your-face fash- how much her personal story would be the as a reminder of what has been. After that ion. She dishes out truth sticks - tale of a journey that had led her to a bun- call, she was on her way to recovery. That galow in the heart of Montrose that serves experience has lead her to a philosophy that sticks made out of THE TRUTH the Houston transgender population. In fact, is a good one to be embraced by everyone. - to each and every "closet case" it informs and inspires everything she does; She says, "When you go through something that she meets, inspiring them to like that, it is your duty ... your job, to reach As she recounts her youth of growing up in lead a brand new life full of rain- out and be there for someone else, to help the still Klan rich area of Pasadena, and life bow flags and exciting opportuni- along the way". - in the Alvin and Galveston area, touches of ties. Natty emphasizes (through sadness flicker at times behind the smile. The issue ofhomelessness is one of the big- an intervention-style confronta- We Remember our Service members Williams lost a lot on her path to become gest faced by the Transgendered population and Veterans this Memorial Day as herself. Married, with a child and a good tion) that there's no reason to live because the transition often results in loss of we continue to work to end job she was miserably unhappy. One source job or not being able to gain employment. your life full of shame, and more of her anguish was she was very 'manly' The need for a Transgender Shelter was ob- importantly, full of shame-rage. 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' and could not fathom being able to transi- vious and Williams did try to establish one Each person that appears on the See Page 11 tion into the woman she knew herself to be. in Galveston. However, with no idea of what show is given carte blanche ac- She finally had to face facts and accept her she was doing and limited funds, the shelter cess to the life they could have , truth. She lost her family and her job. in the could not be sustained. process. whether they want it or not. '1 Continued on Page 4 She had studied psychology and sociology Although the show is driven by the a bit in college but had not completed a de- gree. She was attending nursing school at outrageous Natty Ice, narcoleptic one point. She was able to get off the streets Executive Producer Barry Gordon due to becoming a caretaker for her Mother Lightfoot brings his own bag of who was dying from cancer. crazy to this proverbial "parade". But that despair remained and she, did not Regularly driven to drink by his know where to turn. Then one night she unpredictable host, Mr. Lightfoot stumbled upon the After Hours program that turns to his experience as a grief airs on KPFT radio in the wee hours of Sun- day morning. Shed heard trans-activist Sar- counselor to make it through the ah DePalma talk about being transgendered The Center houses the TG Archives, a col- day. and about a group called the Texas Associa- lection of books, ephemera and art related tion for Transsexual Support (TATS). to Transgenderism ~ Photo by Angela Hon See "Get Out" -- continued Pg.8 May 21,2010 THE MONTROSE GEM ISSUE #132 May 2 Do you have a comment on a news item I COMMUNITY NEWS I or story in the GEM or elsewhere? What do you like, not like, want more of? Have C i I leather/levi organizations have on commu- a story idea or someone you think we ~. ' ,-"/" Er-\",,:%~*~(f.;;l_~ 0,~.I~.' Make a difference in a My go -:--~~.: /I ~11j'''''~';:;-;i7;Iii'" nities internationally (www.clawinfo.org). should interview? Let us hear from you in Vie1 -,-II!l. \ '/~l C">'~u The Ball is the Misfits' flagship event that at [email protected] .,,~• p--:-r.,--'-1I'f.Iif!!j'"-'8,12/ ~-;-,--0~0 teen's life! recipe \r'!;t/}12j,IJ/~?j~8j77 raises money for local charities and is in its me nur \\'J;.§. /.~_'15>"'; JJ;'6"it I!J The 2010 HATCH Prom twelfth year (scheduled for September 12, Vietnai c--'/,-I:""/ "1t'f{,'~ / / ftJ from Meleah Jones Community Projects \ l,J i/)?/;~j.)61'f;/ t-;-/ 2010). and ru -Specialist,Montrose Counseling Center Community Online r I On Sunday, May 2, 2010, Misfits Houston I around " BINGO! " were honored by the National Leather As- On Friday, June 11, 2010, HATCH will Community Center I thaton Fund-raiser for the sociation-International with the President's hot anr GLBT Community Center hold its 18th annual prom. The HATCH Award for Brotherhood and Appreciation, www.hglbtcc.org I day's, Nom, is a safe, affirming alternative to during their Annual General Meeting in 1 hefinis local high school proms, which may not www.montrosecounselingcenter.org Mark your calendar for Saturday, June 5, Oklahoma City, OK. "There are people I would be welcoming environments for GLBT and the return of Queer Bingo! and groups outside our (NLA) chapters that soup f youth. In many ways, our GLBT com- www.legacycommunityhealth.org I make sure this great leather world of ours I i sometl Re-branded First Saturday Queer Bingo, munities have recently made huge strides work and function in smooth harmony," said all the the regular bingo game and social event towards acceptance and respect from GLBT Political Caucus Vince Andrews, President, NLA-1. "Many favorit will be held by the Center on the first Sat- mainstream society. One only has to turn groups like the Misfits of Houston, whom I www.thecaucus.org sonalit urday ofthe month. The new venue is the on the television to see our communities' awarded, have shown great brotherhood ... that nu second-floor private room at the One's A presence, and Houston is proud to boast we appreciate the honor they demonstrate to Out In Houston much; Meal restaurant (815 Westheimer). The the first openly gay/lesbian mayor of a us." www.outinhouston.com time has been moved to 4-6 p.m. to give major city in the U.S. The Misfits Houston is a social, not for , all of the First Saturday Queer Bingo fans I * Thes profit, levi/leather club located in Houston www.PFLAGHouston.org Asian ' a chance to get their bingo on and still I As far as we've come, there is still a long , Texas . Established in 1992 they were es- have time for their Saturday-night plans. way to go. This became all too clear when tablished in an effort to create a leather/levi www.assisthers.org Proceeds will support Center program- I I HOT a public school district in the Mississippi group that has fun, as well as raises funds ming recently opted to cancel a high school for other charitable organizations in the Houston Political Organizing Net- 8 cups prom rather than allow a female student community. The Queer Bingo nights were extremely work - http://groups.yahoo.coml 3/4 poi to attend in a tuxedo with her girlfriend. popular and one of the most success- thin sn Sadly, many HATCH participants report For more information please visit grouplHoP-ON ful fund-raisers held in the community. 2 dri having experienced teasing, harassment, www.misfitshouston.org. * Theme nights, such as 'Brokeback Bin- http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ I shredd threats, intimidation, and physical vio- See Photo Page 10 I I I go' with western attire or "Gay Super- 3 slice lence from their peers because of their LoneStarActivists/ (LSA) hero' with costumes made the evenings about 1 orientation and gender identity. To see the even more fun. Stay tuned for details. * 3 dri youth share some of their stories, please FEMINIST ONLINE NETWORK THE LARAMIE PROJECT \ 112sqi watch their video, Walk in My Shoes. Benefit art show and sale in June http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ "" pound: Their experiences make the importance Opens on June 24 FEMNET cubes The artist and gallerist Te-Jui Fu has an- of' GLBT-affirming activities like the nounced plans to organize an art show THE LARAMIE PROJECT - is based 1I4th. I HATCH Prom excruciatingly clear. Northwest Comer ~ and sale in June with proceeds benefiting on interviews of the Laramie communi- 16medi http://www.nwcomer.org sliced the Center. The show will take place Fri- Join with HATCH as we work to em- ty after Matthew Shepard, a young, gay I 1 slice day, June 18, and Saturday, June 19, in power our communities' youth to become student at the University of Wyoming, www.socialnotesHouston.org 1112 CUI Fu's gallery space in Galleria 3 adjacent positive contributors to society. For 23 was savagely beaten and left hanging I ~ 1 teasp to Macy's. ' - years, HATCH has provided GLBT and on a fence to die. The interviews were conducted_bv-.tbe_Tect()nicTheatecCom- www.aueermu&iGh.~dtage,com I I I Questioning YOuthhages 13 - 20,_with ~u~rn~n",~.,."'n."'ro=·~----~.------~------I·-~. ----.I""""'-----::--:----:--~~;::;:='i:"iO;:. :-1-rITaVmf;~eXp-eneITC~eU~leasmg;--narassmenl,~. .. - .- I .n.-..• Theme nights, such as 'Brokeback Bin- threats intimidation, and physical vio- F I See Photo Page 10 http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ go' with western attire or "Gay Su?er- lence from their peers because of their LoneStarActivists/ (LSA) hero' with costumes made the ev~nmgs orientation and gender identity. To see the even more fun. Stay tuned for details. youth share some of their stories, please THE LARAMIE PROJECT FEMINIST ONLINE NETWORK Benefit art show and sale in June watch their video, Walk in ~y Shoes. Opens on June 24 http://groups.yahoo .coml group/ Their experiences make the Importance FEMNET The artist and gallerist Te-Jui Fu has an- of GLBT-affinning activities like the nounced plans to organize an art show HATCH Prom excruciatingly clear. THE LARAMIE PROJECT - is based Northwest Comer and sale in June with proceeds benefiting on interviews of the Laramie communi- http://www.nwcomer.org the Center. The show will take place Fri- Join with HATCH as we work to em- ty after Matthew Shepard, a young, gay day, June 18, and Saturday, June 19, in power our communities' youth to become student at the University of Wyoming, www.socialnotesHouston.org Fu's gallery space in Galleria 3 adjacent positive contributors to society. For 23 was savagely beaten and left hanging to Macy's. years, HATCH has provided GLBT and on a fence to die. The interviews were www.queermusicheritage.com Questioning youth, ages 13 - 20, with conducted by the Tectonic Theater Com- safe social environments, positive role pany from NYC. When it first came out HTTP://WWW.CENTERFO- ARCH announces next models, and educational and community in 1998 it was the most produced play in meeting outreach opportunities. You can support America, both by regional theaters and RAIDS.ORG these efforts by sponsoring the upcom- at colleges and universities. It was also ing HATCH prom. For more information, an international success, and made into a Imperial Court of Houston The next meeting of Houston Area Rain- www.montrosecounselingcenter.org.To film, produced by HBO. www.spacecityempire.org bow Collective History (ARCH) will be become a sponsor, you may make an Wednesday, May 26, from 6:30pm to It will open on June 24th as part of Hous- online donation with a note of "HATCH 8:30pm in the GLBT Cultural Center on ton Pride 2010 Empire of the Royal Sovereign Prom Sponsorship". the first floor of the Montrose Counsel- Holocaust Museum Houston Imperial Court of the Single Star Brin ing Center at 401 Branard, Houston TX pot a If your high school prom experience was 5401 Caroline St. www.ersicss.org 77006. As always, feel free to share this room less-than-ideal, and you'd like to remake Houston, Texas 77004 invitation with friends and others you feel minu your prom memories, you are invited to TGCENTER may be interested in our collective work. When: 8 Performances- June 24 & 26 ing i attend the HATCH Prom. Adults may www.tgctr.org (Thursday & Saturday (Pride Perfor- eggs, purchase tickets for $25 by making an A more detailed agenda for this next mances) then running July 10, 11, 15, simm online donation with a note of "HATCH Do you know of a group that should meeting will be distributed shortly. Cur- 17,22 and 24 (no performances on 4th of ter an, Prom Tickets." be featured here? Let us know at: rent items include preparations for Pride July weekend) pot [email protected] 2010, updates from members of the Curtain: Thursday evenings: 7:30PM, and Houston ARCH consortium, and a report Misfits Houston receive double Saturday evenings: 8:00PM, heat from the grant writing group. international recognition Sunday Matinee: 6:00PM cook nish Local leather/levi social group, Misfits ARCH is a consortium of organizations, Tickets: $25, Seniors 62 & over and Stu- Houston, has been honored with two inter- institutions, and individuals collaborating dents with ID $20, Group Rates are also B national awards for their work in the com- to promote and enable the digital pres- available. munity. ervation and dissemination of Houston's On April 24, 2010, Misfits Houston re- ONLY 8 PERFORMANCES, LIMITED LGBT history. Until then, feel free to ceived the Powerhouse Award from Cleve- SEATING, RESERVE EARLY! browse our project wiki at: Reservations and Information: 713-522- pery~ land Leather Awareness Weekend (CLAW) rant, in recognition for their annual fundraiser, 2204 http://houstonarch.pbworks.com an Ind! Misfits Ball and the impact it has had for Contact: Joe Watts 713-522-2204 are a local charities, on behalf of the leather com- the tyI Email: [email protected] munity. CLAW is an international fund- often Website: theatrenewwest.com S raising initiative that demonstrates the mothe Page 2 power May 21,2010 THE MONTROSE GEM ISSUE #132 ~i------~ BEELINES the Sunday paper. It had two articles that ad- Special Pride Month Issues dressed queer issues. The first was an article MONTROSE by Deborah Moncrief Bell about the very talented actor, Sean Hayes Our upcoming June 4th and June 19th who played the flamboyant Jack McFarland issues will he specials for LGBT Pride on Will & Grace. Hayes has, after more than month. We will feature all the activi- a decade, officially come out as a gay man. ties we can of what is going on with This comes as a surprise to no one. Hayes GEM claims he was never 'in', saying,"I am who the Pride Celebration and that other WWW.MONTROSEGEM.COM community activities. Remember, this Sometimes I wonder if we (the Queer Com- I am" . is when you reach the most people with munity) has become too mainstream. What? The article was about Hayes starring in ISSUE #132 your advertising dollars. So don't de- 1sn't that what we want? To be just like ev- the Broadway revival of Promises, Prom- May 21,2010 lay, call today 713.523.2828 or contact eryone else, to be just another swatch in the ises (playing a straight man) and his other Published every other Friday via email at montrosegem@yahoo. fabric of American life? Well;yes and no. projects as an actor. He earned an Emmy com. First of all let me explain a few things to as playing a character who was a gay man c. 2010 Gulf Features you. Some people may be offended my the risking being stereotyped, but his talent has 9720 Beechnut St. #380 It is your chance to say it loud and say words I sometimes use in talking about the shown him as capable in a variety of roles. Houston, TX 77036 it proud! people who makeup the LGBT community. So he played a character that was Gay. It's 713.523.2828 Queer for example is a word that I embrace. called acting. It is simple and inclusive of the alphabet But then Parade also reported in it's Intelli- Email: soup that includes anyone who considers gence Report the status of Gays throughout [email protected] WATCH FOR IT! themselves part of the community. Be they the word, providing its readership with the Deborah Moncrief Bell The Montrose GEM a gay male, a Lesbian, a cross-dresser, Bi- news that the developed world leads in gay Editor -in-Chief sexual, Transgendered, Ally or Questioning, rights. Online with our new be they leatherlLevi, ButchlFemme, Top/ Then Gossip Girl, an online blog of the Rate Card #6 in effect updated website Bottom, M2F or F2M or whatever identity Houston Chronicle reported on how Mayor that is the correct label for them. And they Annise Parker's style changes through the Represented Nationally by All the news, stories, get to decide that label, so I try to be respect- years and how she has had to expand her ful of that. The power to name is a power- wardrobe for the job. Speaking at a Girls, Rivendell Media entertainment and 908.232.2021 ful thing and is part of the process of self- Inc. Houston luncheon where she received advertising at determination. the Strong, Smart and Bold Award, she You may have noticed that I capitalized the joked about how her wardrobe has come un- www.montrosegem.com word Lesbian and when I talk about Gays der such scrutiny that she has in fact hired as a term meant to be inclusive, I will also a personal shopper. Nothing was mentioned capitalize. I was instrumental in having the about the Mayor being a Lesbian. This could THE COMMUNITY PAPER FOR MONTROSE AND BEYOND word Lesbian added to Gay Pride so it be- be progress. came Gay and Lesbian Pride, and I voted The mayor talked about being criticized 9720 Beechnut #380, Houston, TX 77036 ~ 713..523.2828 for the Houston Gay Political Caucus to be- as female politician. Hilary Clinton was come the Houston Gay and Lesbian Politi- slammed about her cleavage. "You know cal Caucus. Why? Because I believe and I the question was it ever OK for a woman Please email or call to let us know you want an ad think rightfully so, that when the term Gay politician to show cleavage. "Well, I have so we can reserve the space for you was used, most people thought of gay men. no idea," the Mayor quipped. When you say 'Lesbian' there is no doubt Mayor Parker said she may have made the SCHEDULE. FOR REST OF 2010 you are talking about a female although cover TIME magazine's recent 100 Most In- some women do prefer the term gay wom- fluential People of the World (of whom she an. My friend Bruce Reeves suggested that was one) if she had worn what Lady Gaga, Deadline Jpm'Mondays prior to print date it was most proper to say gay and lesbian another on the list had worn. A long slinky _~ .~ I_£ ••_-l ~---'~ . . , d"e_""~ULi.tb...<>~ott\e..J.'ind~o£.uD,,.~••hT~_thinD I as a term meant to be inclusive, I will also a personal shopper. Nothing was mentioned capitalize. I was instrumental in having the about the Mayor being a Lesbian. This could word Lesbian added to Gay Pride so it be- be progress. THE COMMUNITY PAPER FOR MONTROSE AND BEYOND came Gay and Lesbian Pride, and I voted The mayor talked about being criticized 9720 Beechnut #380, Houston, TX 77036 ~ 713.523.2828 for the Houston Gay Political Caucus to be- as female politician. Hilary Clinton was come the Houston Gay and Lesbian Politi- slammed about her cleavage. "You know cal Caucus. Why? Because I believe and I the question was it ever OK for a woman Please email or call to let us know you want an ad think rightfully so, that when the term Gay politician to show cleavage. "Well, I have so we can reserve the space for you was used, most people thought of gay men. no idea," the Mayor quipped. When you say 'Lesbian' there is no doubt Mayor Parker said she may have made the you are talking about a female although cover TIME magazine's recent 100 Most In- SCHEDULE FOR REST OF 2010 some women do prefer the term gay wom- fluential People of the World (of whom she an. My friend Bruce Reeves suggested that was one) if she had worn what Lady Gaga, Deadline 3pm Mondays prior to print date it was most proper to say gay and lesbian another on the list had worn. A long slinky people (used as an adjective, no cap). dress with a some kind of wire bra thing ISSUE # PRINT DATE DUE ON I like the word Dyke for myself. Contrary worn over it. I am very relieved to learn she to what the majority of people think, dyke is not going to wear her gardening clothes in public anymore. I've seen her in them and 133* 6/4 611 does not denote masculinity in anyway. It that is a wise decision. 134* 6/18 6/14 is a term for a strong, independent female, separate from role. Society tends to want She wrote a poem about running for of- 135 7/2 6/28 us to be one thing or another and most of- fice and about the criticism she often faces 136 7/16 7/12 ten looks in terms of dicodomy. Like male/ about her appearance (see Pg. 4). Most 7/26 137 7/30 female,with no room for any other choice. of us should look so good. Can you imag- 138 8/13 8/9 Martine Rothblatt in her book The Apart- ine such an article about Bob Lanier, Lee 139 8/27 8/23 heid of-Sex; makes the case for there being Brown or Bill White? 140 9/10 9/6 more than just the two choices. Like sexual But if all these mainstream publications 141 9/24 9/20 orientation, sex and gender have multiple are going to cover Queers, where does that 142 10/8 10/4 possibilities. Now while I identify as a Les- leave publications like this one? Well, just as with other things, no mater how accepted, 143 10/22 10/18 bian, I certainly have a bisexual component how visible, how out we are, we are still a 144 11/5 11/1 as I think most people do (would if our soci- people, with a history and a culture. Do I 146* 12/3 11/30 ety was not so difficult in wanting to pigeon- hole us into being part of a duality. I was think it is good that Parade Magazine is 147* 12/17 12/13 married and have children. I find both men being more inclusive? That there can be an 148 12/31 12/27 and women attractive. Do I want to be with article that talks about Annise Parker with- a man? Can't say that I do, but if someone out mentioning her sexual orientation? Of 6,000 Distributed through 60+ Clubs, Restaurants, Shops & Stores and came along that appealed to me and who course I do. But that does not mean we can't community services reaching an estimated 12,000 Readers every issue had shared values, and I loved the person, have our own media as well or that there is * Denotes a special issue - June 4 & 18 for GLBT Pride and December their genitalia won't matter. Right-wing gay not a need for it. 3rd & 17th for Holiday shopping. Place your ad today for our June 4th attorney and writer Dale Carpenter insisted I for one don't want to assimilate. What I special pride issue, deadline for copy is May 31st. I could not be bisexual because he assumed want is equality. I appreciate the queer sen- that being bisexual meant being equally at- sibility, don't you? No one does funny bet- ter than we do, after all we have so much [email protected] tracted to men and women and it does not, at least not for me. And yes, Virginia, bi- material. There is a unique perspective just sexuality is a real sexual orientation. as there is for people of ethnic groups and So what was my point about becoming other cultures. Let's not lose that. ADVERTISING RATES ON PAGE 6 too mainstream? Well it all started when That's the buzzjrom me/or now. I noticed in the April 25th issue of Parade Magazine, a supplement that comes with Page 3 May 21,2010 THE MONTROSE GEM ISSUE #132 May 21 I I move only took a few hours. Afterwards, People are dying to see this movie everyone pitched in to clean up the yard and "On the Run" The feature film debut of Joshua put things away. That is why Cristan refers by Annise Parker (1997) to it as "the home that the community built." Grannell, ALL ABOUT EVIL stars Natasha Lyonne, Cassandra Peter- Not to confuse anyone, because no housing You give up: anonymity, autonomy, son, Thomas Dekker, Mink Stole, and is provided at the center itself butthe homey privacy. Noah Segan. An over-the-top black atmosphere is conducive to a safe, friendly, To gain: authority, celebrity, a legacy? non-institutional environment. Everyone comedy set in the world of a horror who comes in can feel at home. Perfect strangers share imperfect movie, ALL ABOUT EVIL is a love thoughts... . letter to classic movie houses every- The center became a reality through HACS where! and through the Transgender Foundation of "So, you're running for office? Here's the story of ALL ABOUT This comfortable Montrose bungalow provides a home America (TFA) a Houston-based non-profit for social gatherings and other activities for the Trans- Well, just be yourself EVIL, a twisted black comedy set in gendered community of Houston - Photo by Cristan organization whose mission is advancing But... the world of a classic old horror mov- Williams the quality of life for transgender people. You're too reserved, you need to loosen ie-- and a love letter to classic movie The TG Center is in many ways a one stop up! Then something fortuitous' happened for shop for the transgendered, wherever they Don't quip or speak irreverently - you'll houses everywhere! Williams. After her Mother's passing she are in the process, including a support group offend someone. The evil begins when Deborah, a happen' to be checking the unclaimed prop- for families. One has to only check the web- Smile - you'd seem more approachable. mousy librarian, inherits her father's erty report that gets published every year site to find an impressive list of groups and Don't smile so much, people won't think beloved but failing old movie house, and discovered that her Mother had a pen- services that can accessed through the cen- you're serious. the Victoria. In order to save the fam- sion that had not been claimed, and as her ter with several support groups and access Don't cross your arms. heir, Williams received the money. That ily business, she discovers her inner to therapist support, medical assistance as Don't speak with your hands. money provided housing and was invested serial killer-- and starts turning out a well as social services such as homeless- Don't stand so stiffly. in the transition process. That process in- series of grisly short films. ness prevention, case management and HIV Your handshake's much too firm. volves therapy, electrolysis, hormones, and Deborah quickly cultivates a rabid prevention services. TFA provides home- A firm handshake signals confidence. surgery (not all who identify as transgen- legion of San Franciscan gore fans less services such as emergency shelter, You stand too far away from folks. dered go through this process). who help catapult her to new-found clothing, transportation, food and perma- You need to respect personal space. So how did the TG Center in Houston get nent housing placement and removes bar- You're too scripted. local celebrity-- business booms so started? One night Williams was in Montroe riers to mental health support through free You should be more spontaneous! quickly, she's forced to bring on a full at the GLBT Community Center and ran group therapy, counseling and vetted refer- Think before you speak. - film crew of like-minded misfits to into Brenda Thomas, another trans-activist. rals. Additionally, TFA supports community You should cut your hair. meet the demand! development through providing free meet- Brenda was trying to help a transgendered Your hair's too short. Her adoring public, and even her ing space to groups and by hosting regular teen to find shelter since they were not ac- You're goinggray - thought about a little biggest fan-- high school student Ste- cepted at the nearby Covenant House, Cris- events that strengthen ties within the GLBT color? ven-- don't realize that the murders in tan thought that was ridiculous and got on community. Many other services are offered Highlights! the movies are all too real. But will the phone and tried to find housing for the including comprehensive case management That suit's too dark, not feminine enough. this brooding youth catch the blame teen. Much to her amazement, none was to as well as free therapy, assistance with name Stick with power suits. as Deborah's steady stream of 'actors' be had. Transgendered identified individu- changes and a staffed help-line Stick to pants. keep disappearing at an ever-quicken- als were not welcome at any of the homeless Probably the thing that Williams is most No pants. ing pace? shelters or eligible for services from them in proud of is the archive the center houses. You wear your skirts too long. What grisly fate awaits those that Houston. The reality that they often are not One can study and do research about famous Your skirt's too short. dare enter the Victoria theatre? Find safe in such a facility is also an issue. and little known Transpeople throughout Heels would make you taller. A nun could wear those shoes. out in ALL ABOUT EVIL! Williams started working the Houston Area history. Williams proudly shows of the col- lection, often taking from het own merger A little makeup's all you need. Illston~""~-~· Community Services (HACS) that provided Y~"L~.,.],.~ •._t--J--..l. .'--- _C_~:::I,l~:t~:I.•L.±~_••£\J~±'O-~ __ .-L",,--.J.A";-"":. 1· _1"'L.T-.!...U _ resources &er\limr~tb~G-,,~~- ..-~· •. ,~~~~~~~ ~~ __------I--r------~~~~~~Irn~1I _ _v__ ,._1V •••"'. U"'IS-acUvISr:= -_ •• .un an a&" "~~TI11mU You should cut your hair. meet the demand! Brenda was trying to help a transgendered development through providing free meet- Your hair's too short H dori bli ing space to groups and by hosting regular You're oinz a _ thou t about a little . er a onn~ pu IC, and even her teen to find shelter since they were not ac- events that strengthen ties within the GLBT I? g g gr y gh biggest fan-- high school student Ste- cepted at the nearby Covenant House. Cris- commumty.. M any otherer serviservices are offered H'co orhlig. h , ven-- d'on t rea liize th at th e mur ders in tan thought that was ridiculous and got on . 1 d' hensi Ig ItS. . me u mg compre ensive case management That s it' t d k t f .. h the movies are all too real But will the phone and tried to find housing for the . U1 S 00 ar , no ermnme enoug . . II fr teen. Much to her amazement, none was to as we as ee therapy, assistance with name Stick with power suits. this brooding youth catch the blame be had. Transgendered identified individu- changes and a staffed help-line Stick to pants. as Deborah's steady stream of' actors' als were not welcome at any of the homeless Probably the thing that Williams is most No pants. ,~eep disappearing at an ever-quicken- shelters or eligible for services from them in proud of is the archive 'the center houses. You wear your skirts too long.' • mg pace? Houston. The reality that they often are not One can study and do research about famous Your skirt's too short. What grisly fate awaits those that safe in such a facility is also an issue. and little known Transpeople throughout Heels would make you taller. dare enter the Victoria theatre? Find history. Williams proudly shows of the col- A nun could wear those shoes. out in ALL ABOUT EVIL! Williams started working the Houston Area lection, often taking from her own merger A little makeup's all you need. h H . '11 b Community Services (HACS) that provided btai ddi I' Willi Yo sh ld d 0 '1 T e ouston premier WI e August sa ary to 0 tam a mona pieces. 1 lams u ou 0 y ur nai s. . . . resources serving the, TG community and to I is a font of knowledge on Trans-history. I hope your speech isn't too boring. 7th at the Landmark RIver Oaks. assist those facing the plight of homeless- ,; . . . . Oh, no. I'm not political at all. Great ness. It IS Important ~or o~ community to know ...What was your name again?" Mother Along with Thomas and Josephine Titt- and understand ItS hentage," shes states. elle) wa sworth (now.a social worker), the effort Williams hopes the center will develop and post towards finding additional resources to ad- grow, to be able to provide an on site staff Take part in LGBT Online on dress the needs of the community mani- counselor and for herself to move on'. Well, Survey and you might win! Gill and fested itself 'in the idea that a center for kind of. I asked if she planned to finish nurs- same te the Transgendered community was needed. ing, school and she responded that she was Dear Readers, of Mont Like Williams, many of them faced issues more drawn to her original interest in psy- June 20. beyond the basic needs of food, shelter and chology and social work. Considering what We would like to invite you to take clothing, such as addiction. she has been able to do s'o far we can expect a new survey about your opinions and Does Your Employer Offer Group preferences, from an LGBT perspec- Health Insurance Benefits? Perform This current center, at '604 Pacific St. is the great things from this remarkable woman. tive. Paste the following into your WhyNot? WeDo! Love, fourth incarnation of such a center in Hous- ton. Lost of funding or a property owner that The website for the TG Center is:. browser: Cartier. decided to take the property back for other www.tgctr.org. The helpline phone http://www.LGBTSurvey.com We are accepting applications Ginger use caused the doors to be shut. There was for management trainees, number is 713.520.8586 Everyone who completes the sur- bartenders, door and floor staff difficulty in finding a location as welL The Photos: preferred idea was that the center would vey by June 30th will be entered into Christop be part of the Houston GLBT Community Friday TG Social-Fri, June 4, 7pm a drawing to win one of 20 Amazon Offering Group Health benefits Center but arrangements could not be made $25 gift credits, or the grand prize of and the poiential for bigh to accommodate that. Then there was the The Friday Night Transgender Social is a spe- a $500 Visa gift card. • - weeklyeamings. matter 6'f finding a 'Trans-friendly' prop- cial, once-a-month event hosted by the Center for the Houston area transgender community, erty owner' that would lease to them. Then Participating in this study helps open 'supporters, family members, friends, com- To join our Winning team apply one day, driving down Pacific Street on her minds and doors around the world, munity providers and significant others. Each in person Monday through and influences positive changes for ,:,:ay to Baba Yega's, Williams saw a FOR themed social consists of a dinner*, movie, Friday 12:00pm - 4pm LE;ASE sign in front 'of a house. The prop- games and/or presentation. Friday Socials take our community. You may have seen 4 erty owner was agreeable and the deal was place on.the 1st Friday night of each month previous years' surveys quoted in the made.' ..... ~ 800 Pacific Street from 7 to 11 PM. The dinner costs $10 Those New York Times, USA Today, Wall >~' ': / Meteor who are not able to afford the dinner can elect Moving day brought out over 50 volunteers Street Journal, etc. If you have friends South Beach to help set up and clean up in exchange for the 113-5~ from every facet of thecommunity-and the who might be. interested in this sur- Jr's Bar & Grill .dinner, The Social is BYOB. Beer 'and wine Montrose Mining Company 800-421 •• ' ;( r •. ~ I ••.•,f.j, '(~ are the only alcoholic beverages allowed, at vey, please ten them about this. 113-52: Pcme4 the social. Doors open at 6:30 PM. . . ,J. _'. ••• May 21,2010 THE MONTROSE GEM ISSUE #132 by doing two at a time on stage. One of the Then there is his client. Sally Tes- Two On The Aisle interviews was with a transperson, who Off The Charts tata is a tough, unpredictable wom- by Bill O'Rourke wanted to make sure she stayed as anony- Reviewed by Jone Devlin an with her own agenda and lots of mous as the rest of the interviewees, though strong opinions about her career and Being Civilized her story sounds very familiar. It was good to see transpeople included. However, they Greg Bounder is several months how it should go. She also has plenty Unhinged Productions' Uncivil Unions is missed a beat when they didn't include bi- away from graduating college, and, of unresolved issues around her for- playing through May 30 at Frenetic Theater. sexuals as well. like most kids his age, he doesn't re- mer career and the music business; It's agitprop theater. It's approach is part ally have any idea what he wants to not to mention her chemical depen- Laramie Project, part Chorus Line and part There are times when the actors are telling do with his life. He does, however, their own stories - what they did for love. dency. Trying to rein Sally in, in fact, good old rabble rousing Seventies multime- know exactly what he DOESN'T dia barn storming street theater, but with its could very well turn out to be Greg's The whole company, director and actors, own quiet gravitas. want to do with his life; and that is biggest challenge of all. collaborated on the script. And there wasn't go into his father's business. Unfor- a weak link here. So, since I am running out , It's all about gay marriage and the argu- tunately this is the very thing his par- ments in favor of it. The company of play- of space, I'll salute the collectivity - Direc- Told from the perspective of col- ers points out that this subject seems oddly tor Joe Angel Babb, Onstage Talent Patrick ents expect of him. lege student turned music mogul a bit dated, even though the fight is still on. Green, Todd Greenfield, Karen J. Imas, wannabe Greg Bounder, "Off the We haven't won it yet. Indeed, even preach- Tamekia Jackson, Taavi Mark, Jay Mays, But Greg also has another "prob- Charts" is a romping, rollicking ride Stephanie Morris, and Chris Rivera. ing to the 'choir is acceptable. Sometimes lem". He has recently come into pos- from start to finish. Hall, who just we have to check that we are all singing www.ComeUnhinged.com for tickets session of a half million dollar trust the same tune. There are a lot of gay people happens to have his own career as a who don't see this as their fight. The actors Frenetic Theater 5102 Navigation Blvd. fund and, while he's happy about singer/songwriter, gives us a practi- hope that those people will be dragged to the 77001 (down the street from the original the money, he also wants to use it to cal, no holds barred, and utterly hi- show by well meaning friends. So they pres- Ninja's) launch whatever career it is he does larious look into the music business ent, very entertainingly, a whole lotta perti- Openings: decide on - whatever that career as well as the individuals that inhabit nent facts amidst a good show. In fact, this might be. , show is so good that I would be very pleased Romantic Comedy, The Strand Theater, it, warts and all. if the Pride Committee were to invite them Galveston, (just opened - closes June 5) to do a slightly trimmed and loudened ver- Designated Mourner, Catastrophic Theater, One night Greg and his friends to go Hall has also created some absolute- sion of it at the Festival. (just opened - closes June 5) play pool at a local dive in Scranton. ly amazing characters. From Greg to The bar is pretty much nothing spe- Intelligence Slave, Alley Theater, (May 23 Sally to the Scranton bar patrons and -June 20) cial, but at one point, Greg notices the members of Greg's dysfunction- that a woman sitting at the bar is al family, there simply are no one di- Sally Testata. Sally, he explains to mensional people here. Meanwhile, *5 Things You Can Do TODAY to his friends, was a huge deal back in the author's evocations of New elp Pass ENDA * the day, a gay dance hall diva whose York's gay club scene, including a The Chief's Son and the Two Spirited One any of you have been working for years t, biggest hit, "Bombs Away" came out wild romp on Fire Island, will have Patrick Green and Chris Rivera Steven ass the Employment Non-Discriminatio just a little too close to 9/11 for the you rolling in the aisles just begging It:s a large rrurrrber o:f skits in a number of ~c,t (H.R. 3017). This is important legis listening audiences comfort. The re- for more. dIffe~ent ,styles. The next to best part of the ation th.at will make it illegal to discrimi-l sulting furor not only pulled the re- evenmg IS at the beginning of the second ate agal~st 0U: loved ones because of thei act, where they burst forth in energy (and exual onentation or gender identity in em- cord off the charts, but shut Sally's Fast-paced, action packed, and can't 11 . __ ~L __l.l~~'___'_~ ..•_ " _,~ lovment. blossominz career down as well.L, mrt It clown entertaininz from start to ------r-- ...... u.••.•.•.•..u•.•..••. .,-. - - j r= lntemgence·SlllV~l\.lrey-mea'(eIT\1VIay-= cial, but at one point, Greg notices the members of Greg's dysfunction- that a woman sitting at the bar is al family, there simply are no one di- Sally Testata. Sally, he explains to mensional people here. Meanwhile, 1*5 Things You Can Do TODAY to his friends, was a huge deal back in the author's evocations of New elp Pass ENDA * the day, a gay dance hall diva whose York's gay club scene, including a The Chief's Son and the Two Spirited One any of you have been working for years t biggest hit, "Bombs Away" came out wild romp on Fire Island, will have Patrick Green and Chris Rivera Steven ass the Employment Non-Discrirninatio just a little too close to 9111 for the you rolling in the aisles just begging ct (H.R. 3017). This is important legis-l listening audiences comfort. The re- for more. It's a large number of skits in a number of ation that will make it illegal to discrimi different styles. The next to best part of the ate against our loved ones because of the. sulting furor not only pulled the re- evening is at the beginning of the second exual orientation or gender identity in em cord off the charts, but shut Sally's Fast-paced, action packed, and can't act, where they burst forth in energy (and loyment. blossoming career down as well. put it down entertaining from start to some bull horns) and capture what it must have felt like to be at one of the Marches on lease take the time RIGHT NOW to do th finish; Kevin Scott Hall's "Off the Washington. The script for this segment is ollowing five simple things: After talking with Sally, Greg de- Charts" is the perfect way to kick off parts of speeches by Harvey Milk, Marga- cides that staging a comeback for 1. *CALL -* Youcan find your representa the 2010 gay pride pre-season. ret Cho and Rev. Troy Perry, the founder of this old time diva is exactly what he ive' s phone number by checking out 0 Metropolitan Community Churches (MCC) *Action Center* r- Take PRIDE in your business ~ Outc:Businesses. e GLBT-Owned md GLBT.Ftic1I.dly BWll1l.e'!ISeS New Online Directory! A~. bothOuIeuslntUts,ton\ IndMo!\\~ G1II\ W ~ ~ a.20" d!scoool oIfbotll ~ 1 1 I Wanted: 1 Delivery drivers, 1 j Advertising Sales Reps, Your community stories and photos. Call 713.523.2828 today May 21,2010 THE MONTROSE GEM ISSUE #132 20I0, along with other Bishops nationally and internationally to highlight their ho- "Get Out" Continued Gay Catholics Call mophobia. from front page for' Zero Tolerance' Participation does not require membership of Homophobia in in the Rainbow Sash Movement. To find The first episode's candidate out how join or support the Rainbow Sash Brian, was submitted by his own Movement please visit our website at www. the Catholic Church rainbowsashmovement.com, or email us at mother, a full time Stevie Nicks [email protected]. fan who helps the show abduct PRNewswirel The following is being re- him from the night shift at his vid- leased by the Rainbow Sash Movement: HOUSTOK PTUDE 'BAK'D eo store and drag him to a gay bar Photo & comments by Virgil C. Robinson presents /"'?f"\ where he's taught the meaning of MONTROSE - Clark Gable rented this John The Rainbow Sash Movement (Gay Catho- ' lics) will enter Catholic Cathedrals national- •.,.•'~~"'!I ~ S.A.C.A.A.S.R. This imminently F. Staub designed house while taking acting ly and internationally on Pentecost Sunday, quotable show is definitely worth lessons in Houston before making it big in •.f4I-t '"...,-'- "de Hollywood. Staub was an architect who de- May 23, 2010 wearing Rainbow Sashes. .LeJuu. -t fJ"'f &uuI ~ a watch, if for no other reason than The purpose for our Pentecost Sunday pres- fined domestic architecture in the Houston Sunday, May 30th, 2010, 3pm • to get to the bottom of this overly and nearby area. He designed homes from ence is to give voice to the voiceless in our Zilkha Hall, Hobby Center with Special Guests the complex acronym. Church. the early 1920's up until the middle of the Gay Men's Chorus of Houston 20th Century. His Style is still influencing TIckets benefit the regional historic and new building designs.. There is something bipolar about a Church Friends of the &. Houston There are dozens of Staub homes in Mon- that will not give members of the Rainbow Public Library trose. He had a big part in the development Sash Movement communion because they Concert sponsored by of River Oaks. His style worked well here in self identify as gay publicly, while at the Concierge Travel same time elevating men to the office of , Houston. He worked in brick, stucco, used Pope, Cardinal, Archbishop, or Bishop who arched windows as well as doors, designed 't,,"OUD S'ONSO., placed the reputation of the Catholic Church in lots of overhangs. Staub blended Victo- rian, the Prairie Style and Spanish, Italian ahead of needs of innocent children who ~ IrOH'IC;U',... •••O'" houstonertsatttence were sexually victimized by both predator Mediterranean architecture that blended priests and Bishops. The only word that well with the flat plains of the Gulf Coast Shot almost entirely on location in comes to mind to describe such a dichoto- Houston Pride Band but a lot of his homes can be found resting my, in charity, is hypocrite. No Strings Attached Houston, "Get Out! Of The Clos- on hills and gullies along the bayous too. et!" is the creation of local writer/ Some of his more notable and lasting lega- cies are Bayou Bend and buildings on the Gay Catholics should not be divorced from For their 2009-2010 season finale con- director Travis Johns and the team campus and the entrance of Rice University. public self-identification because of sexual cert entitled "No Strings Attached," the at Zenfilm, a local production com- orientation. Unfortunately the currency of Houston Pride Band returns to the Hobby pany, (http://www.zenfilm.com). hierarchical pronouncements is locked in Center to explore the limitless possibili- male chauvinistic culture of clericalism. So You Think You Can Drag? ties of orchestral music when transcribed "We felt like reality TV as a genre Such statements are based on homophobias for the wind band medium. The concert Houston has really gone as far as it can go, that are so out oftouch that it bars the use of will include daring and demanding piec- Saturday June 12th and June 19th at Mi- condoms even to curb AIDS, and encourag- so the only thing left to do was to es such as "Festive Overture" by Dmitri chael's Outpost, 1419 Richmond Ave. A esPapal attacks on gay and lesbian families. Shostakovich and the Houston premiere satirize it," said Johns in a recent special opportunity to come together in of Chiapruck Mekara's "Kheak Choen interview with the Montrose Gem. community and in fun. As to why we wear the Rainbow Sash; we Joaw Fantasy." can no longer sit idly by while homophobia Johns added, "It's like, okay, I IThis talent competition and pageant is takes over the heart and soul of our Church. In addition, memb~rs.of the Lesbian and desigt1ed with fund-raising in mind, is 1__ £"1 . .•.•• ..1_-A....-- LT_~n-A._\._.c.. _ I here's the formula: Wh,!lt is the Nn lnnopr ~~tiC!np.rI uri'th Aic"","'l"nlnlJloi-;nn II Mt_iiichanty, IS hypocnte. NOStrlngS7lltache-a In:ou~wn-,~fTel~Ull-f.7.rrnl!T::IO[O~-nm~ gtmrss along the bayous too. etl " IS the creation of local writer/ Some of his more notable and lasting lega- Gay Catholics should not be divorced from For their 2009-2010 season finale con- director Travis Johns and the team cies are Bayou Bend and buildings on the ti campus and the entrance of Rice University. public self-identification because of sexual cert entitled ''No Strings Attached," the at Zenfilm, a Ioca Ipro duc Ion com- orientation. Unfortunately the currency of Houston Pride Band returns to the Hobby pany, (http://www.zenfilm.com). hierarchical pronouncements is locked in Center to explore the limitless possibili- male chauvinistic culture of clericalism. So You Think You Can Drag? ties of orchestral music when transcribed "We felt like reality TV as a genre Such statements are based on homophobias for the wind band medium. The concert Houston that are so out of touch that it bars the use of will include daring and demanding piec- has really gone as far as it can go, so the only thing left to do was to Saturday June 12th and June 19th at Mi- condoms even to curb AIDS, and encourag- es such as "Festive Overture" by Dmitri chael's Outpost, 1419 Richmond Ave. A esPapal attacks on gay and lesbian families. Shostakovich and the Houston premiere satirize it," said Johns in a recent special opportunity to come together in of Chiapruck Mekara's "Kheak Choen interview with the Montrose Gem. community and in fun. As to why we wear the Rainbow Sash; we Joaw Fantasy." can no longer sit idly by while homophobia Johns added, "It's like, okay, This talent competition and pageant is takes over the heart and soul of our Church. In addition, members of the Lesbian and here's the formula: What is the designed with fund-raising in mind, is No longer satisfied with discriminating Gay Band Association (LGBA) from most patently absurd ordeal we produced by "My Party for Life". The against LGBT Catholics, the Bishops are around the country will join the Hous- winner of the contest can designate pro- now going after our children in Catholic could possibly put people through ton Pride Band en masse for this special ceeds to the charity of their choice. schools. Discrimination against the children concert and, together, they will welcome legally? Who are the most men- of gay parents because of their parents' sex- special guests the Gay Men's Chorus of tally unstable people we could find For information on this event or how you ual orientation is wrong, and only highlights Houston (GMCH) in a stirring perfor- to do it? And what's the cheapest can become a contestant (open to Drag how dysfunctional the current position of mance of Franz Biebl's "Ave Maria." way to shoot it?" Queens and Drag Kings) go to the web- the Church has become. site and enter today. Or call 832-537- In keeping with their rededication efforts 6589 www.soyouthinkyoucandraghous- We are not ''flaunting'' sexuality when we "With 'Get Out! ' we wanted to ex- towards helping the community, Houston ton.com wear the Rainbow Sash. Simply put, if you Pride Band will donate ticket proceeds plore the insanity of all ofthat, and are not seen, it is unlikely that your voice is the lengths to which people will go from this concert to the Friends of the Reserved tables at each of the events go recognized as significant enough to be given Houston Public Library. To find out more for fame and entertainment. At the for $100.00 each, so tell all your friends, attention; if you cannot be heard, you can- about the Friends of the Houston Public same time we wanted to remind call to reserve your seat now, before not combat the prejudice you face, and no Library, visit their website at http://www. people that Houston has a tremen- they're all gone. one can hear you cry out when you are the friendsofhpl.orgl. victim of injustice, when you suffer intimi- dous amount oflocal talent and re- "We look forward to seeing you there, dation, or worship under institutionalized sources," Johns continued. The concert will be held in Zilkha Hall Dahling! homophobia. at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts (Downtown Houston) on Sunday, Episode one is currently avail- The love it or leave it mentality is not an op- May 30, 2010, at 3:00 PM. Tickets are able free online at http.z/www. CORRECTION tion for us. On the contrary the Gospel chal- available at the Hobby Center box office getoutofihec1osettv, on Vimeo, lenge of love calls us to challenge exclusion and online at http://www.thehobbycenter. RE: Queers in the Comics, in our with inclusion. In doing so, we follow in the YouTube, and is also available for org/. last issue (#' 131) The last sen- spirit of the early Christians who challenged free download at the iTunes store. the exclusion of the uncircumcised. The Houston Pride Band serves as a band Episode 2, "Brother & Sisters", tence got cut off while realigning in Houston's GLBT community and per- will be released on Friday, May the layout design, It should have That is why we will directly challenge Car- forms at various events throughout the 28th, just in time for the Memorial read: dinal Francis George of Chicago, current year as well as concerts and parades. The Day weekend. Local viewing par- president of the US Conference of Catholic Houston Pride Band is open to all brass, In 2006, DC revealed in its Man- Bishops in Holy Name Cathedral at the 11 woodwind, and percussion players and ties will be announced on the "Get hunter title that longtime charac- AM Mass on Pentecost Sunday, May 23, welcomes musicians of all skill levels. Out! Of The Closet!" fan page on ter Obsidian was Gay. And Con- Facebook. tinued on Page 4 Page 8 http://www.houstonprideband.orgJ 132 May 21,2010 THE MONTROSE GEM ISSUE #132 vie Send your photos to: [email protected] to appear in future issues ery- )UT et in pov- ovie lb, a er's use, am- Pler ut a tbid fans und : so full ; to er ~te- sin will I une tben-rs' fhat ~nd ust Iher fte- ~m fill lme brs' len- ihat ind ust Great fun was had by all as the new Mother of Montrose (Jackie Dani- elle) was crowned at Michael's Out- post on May 9th. Produced by Don ill. c> Gill and directed by Eric Stutes. The same team will present The Daddy of Montroe contest on Father's Day, June 20. Performers included Crystal Ray Lee Love, M.J. Sommers, and Chane Ie Cartier. Eric Stutes and the very coy Ginger Vitis were the announcers. Soiree Pelouse- Wonka was a huge success with honorary cohost, Bryan Hlavinka (along Photos: by Randy Hatcher and with Tammi Wallace) playing the Candyman Christopher Prado himself hosting Oompa Loompas and other strange folks, ~ Photos from Bryan Hlavinka Want a Standout Ad in a cOHlHlunit)Jpaper that serves .Montrose and be)Jond?then contact us (oda)J to find out what we can do for )Jou. GUENTHER FLOWERS Complete Floral Service Since 1968 We taft flrow IOflelker! The-beneficiaries of the Soiree were Assistllers, The Houston Gay, Lesbian, Bi- [email protected] sexual, Transgendered Community Center 713-523-2828 ~nd Legacy Community Health Services. 800-426-1573 Terry L. Shaw 713-523-2238 (Fax) Designer/Creator _ 713.5%3.%8%8 May 21,2010 THE MONTROSE GEM ISSUE #132 The Houston GLBT Community Center is Scholarship Deadline Extended The Center established the John Lawrence in significant extra-curricular activities; 4) a record of service in community organiza- located at 3400 Montrose Blvd., Suite 207. and Tyrone Garner Scholarship Fund in The Center extends deadline for new schol- tions and 5) a demonstrated financial need. The phone number is 713.524.3818. honor of the two Houston men who were the arship established in honor of petitioners in The recipient will be selected by a commit- co-petitioners in the landmark Lawrence v. landmark Lawrence v. Texas case tee. Details and the application are available Texas case, which overturned anti-gay laws Par~ The Houston GLBT Community Center, in the United States. ar: www.houstonglbtcommunitycenter.org. has announced an extension of the deadline • ••. ;peq. The Center will present the first John Law- for the John Lawrence and Tyrone Garner The scholarship will be awarded to a gay, .~-tO-~> rence and Tyrone Garner Scholarship at its Scholarship Fund. The new deadline is Fri- lesbian, bisexual, or transgender student at- annual Pride month event commemorating •••• "••••.t-. day, June 11. For 2010, the Center has also tending or planning to attend an accredited ~~ . the 2003 Supreme Court decision in the ....•. opened the application process to all gay, institution of higher learning who has 1) ,:" .•.> to' .' > .••••• case. The Lawrence v. Texas Commemora- ~ .••.••••.• ~.» lesbian, bisexual, and transgender students demonstrated a commitment to public ser- •. ·walk, •.• ,.. ••••••• > tion will be held at the Center on Thursday, pursuing higher education, not just high vice; 2) demonstrated leadership in the fight ------...----~---~...•..---- June 24, at 7 p.m. school seniors. for equality for GLBT people; 3) engaged Misfits: (L to R) Robert Hammond, Russ Gobel, Mike Rutherford, NLA -I President Vince Andrews, Ed Crain, Rene Cantu, Kevin Way, Woodja Flanigan. 1-1 _ Misfits: (L to R) Robert Hammond, Russ Gobel, Mike Rutherford, NLA-I President Vince Andrews, Ed Crain, Rene Cantu, Kevin Way, Woodja Flanigan. 01' Sunday June 20, 2010 . 5:00 PM 1rr=!17~o=Years= Of Serving The Houston GLBT Michael's Outpost Communityl 1419 Richmond Ave. Houston, IX 713.520.8446 Directed By: Daddy Eric Stutes DOM 2009/2010 AppUcations ava:Ilable at the Outpost and online at: daddyofmontrose.org Benefiting: PWA HoUday Charities Page 10 May 21, 2010 THE MONTROSE GEM ISSUE #132 I e-ook.i"i =r: with. Pro pPl-ve I ~tories From The Front- I was lucky, though. I did not get kicked lines. Former Sgt. Shonda out, but that does not mean that DADT I I I didn't affect me. The uncertainty and fear My good friend, Vi, a man who grew up Garrison - "I Was A Hard of knowing that anyone with a grudge could in Vietnam, shared with me his mom's end my career, and the sadness in realizing recipe for hot and sour soup. Vi has told , Charging Soldier" that at any time my country could callously me numerous stories about growing up in by AKA William discard me for no other reason than the fact Vietnam including how his dad would lift that I was gay, pressured me to give up the and run a rickshaw transporting people "Stories from the Frontlines: Letters to Pres- career I loved. I chose not to reenlist. There le around town. He said he can remember ident Barack Obama" is a media campaign are days when it is hard for me not to walk that on special days, his mom would make launched to underscore the urgent need for into the nearest recruiting station and sign hot and sour soup for his dad after a long congressional action and presidential lead- back up. I watch what is happening-in Iraq day's work. His dad ate first, and when ership at this critical point in the fight to re- and Afghanistan and it's hard for me to he finished, Vi, his brother and two sisters peal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" (DADT). think about not being there with the men .org would eat. Well honey, that hot and sour Little did she know I did that with men, and women I served with in the first Gulf soup for all those years must have done but you know what, she was right! Iliked Every weekday morning, as we approach .org War. I have to remind myself why I chose something for Vi's love life because now it! I hope you enjoy this dish as well. the markup of the Defense Authorization not to reenlist. all the queens who know him say that Vi's bill in the Senate and House Armed Ser- favorite soup not only matches his per- I 3 to 4 pound snapper (be sure the eyes vices Committees, AKA William and other Defending our country in uniform is one sonality, but his "manhood"--whatever are clear and there is no "fishy" odor) participating blogs will post a letter from of the greatest privileges and responsibili- that means! I hope you enjoy this soup as 1 medium onion, peeled and chopped a servicemember discharged under Don't ties of being an American. Many people do much as Vi and I do. 2 cloves of garlic, peeled Ask Don't Tell. Today's letter comes from not appreciate that; many take our freedoms I teaspoon fresh ginger, finely chopped Former Sgt. Shonda Garrison, who writes, for granted; and many do not choose to * These items are readily available in any * 2 tablespoons tamarind liquid "There are days when it is hard for me not to serve. We cannot afford to lose those who Asian market. * I tablespoon dark soy sauce walk into the nearest recruiting station and want to serve, who have the necessary skills I tablespoon vegetable oil sign back up." and work ethic, and who would risk their 1teaspoon salt HOT AND SOUR SOUP livesfor their comrades and their country. * I teaspoon ground tumeric May 17,2010 Net- * 3 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves, 8 cups chicken broth Mr. President, in your State of the Union finely chopped .om/ 3/4 pound oflean pork, sliced into small, President Barack H. Obama Address, you said that the American people * banana leaves (or foil) for wrapping thin strips The White House are not quitters. I did not quit on my country * 2 dried black mushrooms, soaked and 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest during the first Gulf War and I would serve shredded Wash the fish in cold water and pat dry oup/ Washington, DC 20500 again if called. There are at least 66,000 3 slices of peeled fresh ginger, each with paper towels. Score the fish diag- gays and lesbians serving right now who do about the size of a quarter onally one each side. Use a blender or Dear Mr. President, not want to quit, either. Mr. President, please * 3 dried wood ear, soaked and shredded food processor to mix the onion, garlic, don't quit on them. Please do everything in 112square of bean curd (about 1I4th. ginger, tamarind liquid, soy sauce, oil, I am a proud Army veteran of the first up/ your power to end DADT this year. We are pound) cut into 1I4th.X 1I4th.X 2 inch salt, and tumeric. When blended smooth, Gulf War.You won't find anyone who loves counting on you. cubes rub the mixture into the body of the fish this country more. I get chills and teary eyes 1I4th.cup shredded bamboo shoots ~.-. _ 4 tablespoons cornstarch blended in 3 the time that I was a lesbian, but later, when And, by visiting www.sldn.org/letters, tablespoons water I did come to terms with my being gay, I you'll be able to take action by sending a 1 green onion, diced never tried to hide it, but I did not flaunt it letter to your member of Congress who 19n either. My sexual orientation was a non-is- needs to lobbied to support the repeal, and Star Bring chicken broth to a boil in a large sue. I was a hard charging soldier, promoted you can also share your own personal story pot and add shredded pork, black mush- long before my peers. I am sure there was of how DADT has impacted you. rooms, ginger and wood ears. Cook for 3 talk behind my back about me being a les- minutes and discard ginger. Add remain- bian, but no one ever seemed to care. I was ing ingredients, except the cornstarch, a good friend, soldier, and leader; everyone eggs, and green onion. Reduce heat and I encountered could have cared less about ould simmer 2 minutes. Add cornstarch to wa- what happened in my private life. ter and whisk until smooth. Pour into the at: pot and cook until the soup is thickened After DADT was passed, I started to hear 1 and translucent. Remove soup from the stories about people being discharged. I heat and slowly stir in the beaten eggs and WANTED struggled with this every day, always fear- cook until the eggs are coagulated. Gar- ful that I would be next. Eventually, the """ nish with green onion. Advertising Sales stress of constant fear that I could lose my job no matter how hard I worked or how Thank you to all that serve BAKED SNAPPER Representatives well I performed, became too much. I knew Photographers - Delivery from the stories of others that even serving or have served. In honor Another Vietnamese dish Vi introduced Drivers to the very best of my ability could cost me of our GLBT Servicemem- me to is baked snapper. Unlike the snap- my job. I knew that an anonymous tiJr:-by per you can order in any American restau- Your organization's & com- someone who was jealous of my success, bers and Veterans, this Me- rant, or grill or bake at home, this fish has munity news with photos angry with me because of a disagreement, or an Indonesian twist to it. The seasonings mad because I rebuffed a sexual advance- morial Day let's commit to are a wonderful pungent surprise from 713.523.2828 could trigger a demoralizing, demeaning in- the end of DADT the typical white wine or butter sauces so [email protected] vestigation under DADT. And if I was not often served. Again, as my Jewish grand- willing to lie, I knew an investigation could -'" mother would say, "Try it; you'll like it!"; lead to my discharge. Page 11 1,