State House Office Blocked HIV Health Websites In Focus: Harms Of Same-Sex Adoption Ban Michigan Prepares For 6th Circuit Decision

THE LETTINGGO A Conversation With Melissa Etheridge

WWW.PRIDESOURCE.COM NOV. 6, 2014 | VOL. 2245 | FREE 2 BTL | Nov. 6, 2014 www.PrideSource.com COVER 14 The Letting Go Photo: John Tsiavis If you’re still resisting the T. Swizzle,

State House Office Blocked HIV Health Websites it’s time you work on that. Because In Focus: Harms Of Same-Sex Adoption Ban Michigan Prepares For 6th Circuit Decision remember how un-cool it was to get down with the Swifties? Good luck hearing “1989” and not becoming one. THE GO LETTING – Chris Azzopardi reviews A Conversation With Melissa Etheridge Taylor Swift’s latest album, page 17

FREE NOV. 6, 2014 | VOL. 2245 |

WWW.PRIDESOURCE.COM

NEWS 4 Michigan Prepares For 6th Circuit Decision ONLINE XTRA ONLINE XTRA ENTER TO WIN 5 Impact On The Kids: The Harms Of Sam e-Sex Adoption Ban 6 New National School Climate Survey On America’s Middle And High Schools Released 11 State House Office Computers Had Certain HIV, Reproductive Health Websites Blocked 12 Intimate Partner Violence Report Out OPINION 10 Parting Glances 10 Viewpoint 12 Creep of the Week Check Pridesource.com Win Two Tickets To Go Online For 2014 Election Results For Day of Decision Info See Michelle Chamuel LIFE 17 Hear Me Out Head over to Pridesource.com for in-depth analysis of the Nov. The 6th Circuit Court of Appeals Enter online to win two tickets to 18 Happenings 4 election results. Find out which LGBT politicians in Michigan may issue a ruling in the see Michelle Chamuel perform were elected and who of BTL’s endorsed candidates won. This Michigan marriage case anyday Nov. 10 at the The Shelter. Go 21 Tall Tale Waggin’ At Planet Ant year there are countless opportuntiies for progress for the LGBT now. Keep yourself posted at to http://www.pridesource.com/ 22 Cool Cities: Ann Arbor community. Join us as we analyze just how much celebration is Pridesource.com! tickets_contest.html 25 Ann Arbor Art Fair Producers Host in order. Holiday Art Fair Nov. 15-16 26 Puzzle 26 Classifieds

VOL. 2245 • NOV. 6, 2014 • ISSUE 888 EDITORIAL CREATIVE ADVERTISING & SALES ONLINE AT Editor in Chief Art Director Director of Sales PRIDE SOURCE MEDIA GROUP Susan Horowitz, 734.293.7200 x 12 Benjamin Jenkins, [email protected] Jan Stevenson, 734.293.7200 x 22 “Between The Lines Newspaper” 20222 Farmington Rd., Livonia, Michigan 48152 [email protected] [email protected] Phone 734.293.7200 Webmaster & MIS Director Entertainment Editor Kevin Bryant, [email protected] Sales Representatives Follow us @YourBTL PUBLISHERS Chris Azzopardi, 734.293.7200 x 24 Ed Bohach, 734.293.7200 x 15 Susan Horowitz & Jan Stevenson [email protected] Contributing Writers [email protected] Charles Alexander, Michelle E. Brown, Email your op–eds to MEMBER OF Arts & Theater Editor Todd Heywood, Jerome Stuart Nichols, Ann Cox, 734.293.7200 x 13 [email protected] Michigan Press Assoication Donald V. Calamia, Eric W. Rader, Gwendolyn Ann Smith, [email protected] National Gay Media Association [email protected] Christopher J. Treacy Sign up online to receive our E–Digest Q Syndicate National Advertising Representative Assistant Editor Cartoonists Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 Shelby Clark Petkus, [email protected] Paul Berg, Dave Brousseau Our rate cards are available online. All material appearing in Between The Lines is protected by federal copyright law and Calendar Editor Contributing Photographers may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission Shelby Clark Petkus, [email protected] Andrew Potter of the publishers. Between The Lines is supported by many fine advertisers, but we cannot accept responsibility for claims Staff Writers made by our advertisers, nor can we accept responsibility for Copyright 2014 Pride Source Media Group, LLC AJ Trager, [email protected] materials provided by advertisers or their agents. www.PrideSource.com Nov. 6, 2014 | BTL 3 BRIEF Michigan Prepares For 6th Circuit Decision

Free LGBT Friendly BY AJ TRAGER Michigan for Marriage, the campaign It has been 83 days; 1,009 days since the DeBoer family Medicare Information And working to spread the word on marriage equality in the state and Equality filed their case, and that is nothing compared to the years and Counseling Available Michigan, the statewide advocacy “ organization fighting for the LGBT decades that some of us have been waiting for our rights. Area Agency on Aging 1-B Partners with equality gathered Oct. 28 to discuss the Affirmations Community Center future of same-sex marriage rights and equality in the state. - Gina Calcagno, Michigan” For Marriage The conversation was headed by The Area Agency on Aging 1-B’s (AAA1-B) Medicare Sommer Foster, the director of political Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP) is partnering advocacy at Equality Michigan, and “We are talking with everyone we celebration. Check out the link below for with Affirmations to offer LGBT Medicare beneficiaries Gina Calcagno, the coalition manager know. We are engaging family members a list of gathering places. free information and assistance on Medicare and for Michigan for Marriage who provided on difficult discussions. Those are the Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage plans updates in the current battles. But in conversations that we need to have. The during open enrollment now thru Dec. 7. The AAA 1-B 6th Circuit Rules In Favor the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court’s way we have those conversations is so will provide “Medicare 2015 Changes” presentations (SCOTUS) decision Oct. 6, to not hear important. When you look at other states and offer free, in-person assistance at Medicare Part D Of State states’ appeals for marriage bans, and in who have won marriage equality through Assistance Days at Affirmations in Ferndale (see dates If the court decides for the state, the anticipation of the 6th Circuit ruling the ballot, other states that have won and times below). Medicare counselors will also be Michigan for Marriage has vowed to on the Deboer v Snyder case, the audience marriage equality through legislation, available to answer questions over the phone throughout keep fighting with the DeBoer-Rowse was concerned about where their rights it’s those conversations that people are the open enrollment period. family when they appeal that decision stand and what the next step is. having with one another that are the “We are excited to partner with Affirmations and to SCOTUS. Michigan for Marriage “It has been 83 days; 1,009 days since tipping point,” Calcagno said. provide LGBT-friendly Medicare education and and Equality Michigan have also begun the DeBoer family filed their case, and There is speculation that the 6th Circuit assistance events during Medicare’s open enrollment planning for a push to get marriage that is nothing compared to the years Court may be the first court to rule in period,” said Jennifer Therrien, manager of the AAA equality on the 2016 ballot. and decades that some of us have been favor of same-sex marriage bans, but 1-B’s Medicare Medicaid Assistance Program. “It is While many states, including waiting for our rights,” Calcagno said. Calcagno has a message for everyone important beneficiaries review their Medicare Part D Michigan, have taken same-sex marriage She has spent months speaking to trying to figure it out. She’s watched the plan every year to make sure the plan still covers their to the ballot box. However, t is only people across the state about same-sex court proceedings four times, frantically prescriptions and is still is the most affordable coverage in recent years, that those cases have marriage and gender equality, including refreshes the court’s document release option. Plans have the ability to change their premium gone in favor of marriage equality. parents of gay and lesbian children who page until each day’s decisions are posted costs, deductibles and co-pays each year. If a person’s Michigan added the voter-approved are leaving the state because of continued and at this point can only say for certain medications have changed, their out of pocket costs may Michigan Marriage Amendment to its discrimination in state law. that the speculation is “all tea leaves.” also be impacted.” state constitution, making same-sex With the election just a few days Whether the court decides in favor or The following Medicare Education and Assistance marriage unconstitutional in the 2004 away, Calcagno believes its the tough against same-sex marriage, Michigan events will be provided at Affirmations, located at 290 election cycle. conversations with family and friends for Marriage has a plan of action, a two W. Nine Mile Rd. in Ferndale. The general public event What happens if the 6th circuit decided that are going to swing the opinion and pass strategy for equality. On the day will be held Nov. 11, 6 to 7 p.m. The LGBT only event give a resonating majority vote for gay of decision, multiple cities from around is Nov. 19, 3 to 4 p.m. rights Nov. 4. the state will gather in protest or in See 6th Circuit, page 9 Medicare Part D Assistance Days offers in-person counseling and a chance for people to sit down with a MMAP counselor to review their current Medicare Part Impact On The Kids: The Harms Of Same-Sex Adoption Ban D prescription drug coverage plan in order to choose a new plan option during the annual open enrollment BY AJ TRAGER period. The general public event will be held Dec. 1, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The LGBT only event is Dec. 4, 10 GROSSE POINTE FARMS – As the a.m. to 3 p.m. Michigan election comes to an end and Registration is required to attend these events. Please BTL goes to press, we await the outcome call the AAA 1-B’s Medicare Medicaid Assistance of the Attorney General’s race between Program at 1-800-803-7174 to register. Democratic candidate Mark Totten and Republican Attorney General Bill Medicare Part D Counseling by Phone Schuette. Schuette has been a staunch supporter of the lawsuit currently before For assistance with Medicare Part D prescription plan the 6th Circuit, denying same-sex couples choices over the phone, beneficiaries can call the AAA the right to marry, and as a result they are 1-B’s MMAP counselors at 1-800-803-7174 Monday also denied the right to co-adopt. Totten through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. spent an afternoon with two same-sex couples last Friday, who between them The Area Agency on Aging 1-B is a nonprofit agency have ten children, many of which were responsible for services to more than 620,000 persons age 60 adopted out of the foster care system in and older residing in Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, the state. St. Clair and Washtenaw counties.Call 1-800-852-7795, or Over the past couple of years Totten has gotten to know the plaintiff couple in Mark Totten with Michigan couples, Kathy Derbyshire and Lisa Malburg, and Johnny and Daniel visit www.aaa1b.com. For more information on these events Persyn. The two couples have ten c children between them. Like all same-sex couples with children, visit www.GoAffirmations.org. they are anxiously awaiting the outcome of the 6th Circuit ruling on marriage equality. BTL photo: See Impact, page 8 AJ Traeger

4 BTL | Nov. 6, 2014 www.PrideSource.com

New National School Climate Survey On America’s Middle And High Schools Released Schools Nationwide Remain Hostile Environments For LGBT Youth

BY BTL STAFF people, history or events. flagship resource for educators, provides • School climate for LGBT students concrete strategies to educate school GLSEN (the Gay, Lesbian & Straight has improved somewhat over the personnel and students about how to Education Network) released its biennial years, yet remains quite hostile for eliminate anti-LGBT bias. Earlier this National School Climate Survey report many. Increases in the availability of year, GLSEN completed sending over Oct. 22, which shows how ongoing many LGBT-related school resources, 60,000 Safe Space Kits, reaching every hostile school climates impact the safety due in part to efforts by GLSEN and middle and high school in the country. and mental health of LGBT students, as other safe school advocates, may be well as their educational outcomes. having a positive effect on the school “Progress is being made in our nation’s environment. LGBT students reported a Other key findings in the schools,” said Dr. Eliza Byard, GLSEN’s lower incidence of homophobic remarks new survey include: executive director. “But when more than ever before – from over 80 percent than half of LGBT youth continue to hearing these remarks regularly in 2001 • Thirty-six percent of LGBT students report unsafe or even dangerous school to about 60 percent now. were physically harassed (e.g., pushed climates, we all have a responsibility “GLSEN’s biennial survey allows or shoved) in the past year because of to act.” their sexual orientation and 23 percent This latest edition of because of their gender expression, GLSEN’s National School while 17 percent were physically Climate Survey, which first assaulted (e.g., punched, kicked, began in 1999 and remains one injured with a weapon) in the past of the few studies to examine year because of their sexual orientation the middle and high school and 11 percent because of their gender experiences of LGBT youth expression. nationally, includes four major • Sixty-five percent of LGBT findings: students heard homophobic remarks • Schools nationwide are (e.g., “dyke” or “faggot”) frequently hostile environments for a or often. Thirty-three percent heard distressing number of LGBT negative remarks specifically about students. Seventy-four percent transgender people, like “tranny” or were verbally harassed in “he/she,” frequently or often. the past year because of • Fifty-six percent of LGBT students their sexual orientation and reported personally experiencing 55 percent because of their LGBT-related discriminatory policies gender expression. As a or practices at school and 65 percent result of feeling unsafe or said other students at their school uncomfortable, 30 percent had experienced these policies and missed at least one day of practices. This included 28 percent school in the past month. reporting being disciplined for • A hostile school climate public displays of affection that were not disciplined among non-LGBT affects students’ academic The 168 page report is available to download at GLSEN’s success and mental health. website. students. LGBT students who • LGBT students with 11 or more experience victimization supportive staff at their school were and discrimination at school have us to understand the ever-changing less likely to feel unsafe than students worse educational outcomes and poorer landscape that is the education system with no supportive staff (36 percent vs. psychological well-being. Grade point for LGBT students,” said Dr. Joseph 74 percent) and had higher GPAs (3.3. averages for these students were G. Kosciw, GLSEN’s Chief Research vs. 2.8). Unfortunately, only 39 percent between nine and 15 percent lower & Strategy Officer. “This most recent of students could identify 11 or more than for others. report shows that there has been progress supportive staff. • Students with LGBT-related in improving the school experience • Verbal and physical harassment resources and supports report better for LGBT students and that positive based on sexual orientation and gender school experiences and academic LGBT resources in school can make a expression were lower than in all prior success. LGBT students in schools difference in the lives of these youth.” years of the NSCS, and physical assault with an LGBT-inclusive curriculum In addition to the impact GLSEN has been decreasing since 2007. were less likely to feel unsafe because campaigns and programs like of their sexual orientation (35 percent ThinkB4YouSpeak, Ally Week, Day An executive summary and the complete vs. 60 percent). Unfortunately, only 19 of Silence and No Name-Calling GLSEN National School Climate Survey percent of LGBT students were taught Week have had on improving school report can be found at www.glsen.org/nscs, positive representations about LGBT climates, GLSEN’s Safe Space Kit, its along with shareable infographics.

6 BTL | Nov. 6, 2014 www.PrideSource.com Affirmations Announces New Agency To Assist In Executive Director Search BTL STAFF non-profit community across the country will allow us to be proactive in finding the best FERNDALE – Affirmations Community candidate for the center. We are also confident Center announced last week that that the firm’s extensive experience in this area WBB+McCormack will assist in the next will allow us to complete the search as quickly phase of the search for a new executive and effectively as possible.” director. WBB+McCormack was established in David Garcia served as Affirmations Los Angeles over 20 years ago by veteran executive director for two and a half years search consultant Joseph A. McCormack, and earlier this year accepted a position as and is a joint venture between McCormack Director of Policy and Community Building & Associates and minority-owned Wesley, for the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center in Brown & Bartle in New York. The firm is California. Since that time, Jon Fitzgerald has a national provider of specialized executive been serving as the center’s interim executive search services for senior executives and board director. members for non-profit organizations with a The center announced the new phase of focus on healthcare, social services, and social the search in the summer, deciding to utilize justice. It is among the first to specialize in a consulting firm and an advisory council, diversity recruiting. opening the process to select a future director. WBB+McCormack has a national scope and “I am excited that we have the ability to has assisted with the placement of hundreds work with WBB+McCormack, a LGBT owned of staff at LGBT organizations, including its firm, in the next phase of our search,” Frank most recent placement of Executive Director Aiello, Affirmations board president said. Jerry Peterson at the Ruth Ellis Center in “Having a strong connection to the LGBT Highland Park. Local Churches Gather For AIDS Service BY BTL STAFF John Judson; Central Woodward Christian Church, Pastors Bob Cornwall and Rick BIRMINGHAM – This upcoming weekend Modglin-Green; Congregational Church of five churches will gather together for an AIDS Birmingham, and United Church of Christ, Remembrance and Awareness worship service. Rev. Louise R. Ott. On Nov. 9 at 5 p.m. the Global Face A reception and viewing of panels from The of HIV/AIDS will be presented by Rev. AIDS Quilt (part of The Names Project) will Roland Stringfellow of MCC-Detroit who be held after the service. will be accompanied by One Voice Chorus. Participating churches also include First The First United Methodist Church of Birmingham United Methodist Church of Birmingham, is located at 1589 W. Maple Road Birmingham. Pastors Gary Haller and Laurie Haller; Birmingham First Presbyterian, Pastor Call 248-646-1200 for more information. Pride Planning For Hart Plaza Begins

The Motor City Pride Planning Committee announced its community meetings schedule Tuesday. The meetings are being held to review the 2014 festival and to gather ideas the 2015 Festival and Parade scheduled for June 6 and June 7 at Hart Plaza in Detroit. MCP is also accepting applications from individuals that would like to become more involved in the planning of the 2015 festival. The first round of meetings have been set for multiple dates, in order to allow those who want to participate find a date that works with their schedule and/or location as follows: Nov. 12. at 6:30 p.m. at MotorCity Casino Hotel; 2901 Grand River Avenue, Detroit, Nov. 13. Check out the website at www.motorcitypride. at 6:30 p.m. at Affirmations; 290 West 9 Mile org for updates on the festival throughout the Road, Ferndale or Nov. 18. at 6:30 p.m. at the coming year. Netco Nightclub; 516 East Liberty, Ann Arbor. www.PrideSource.com Nov. 6, 2014 | BTL 7 Of their five children, two arrived me, since that money is not pre-taxed, ® Impact in the household with attitude and it does cost more,” Derbyshire pressed. Continued from p. 4 attention problems. Since being there, “It’s not the same as having spousal they have advanced significantly, with benefits. Some couples may be limited one substitute teacher even commenting to the type of care that they can provide Michigan fighting for same-sex adoption that the one child was no longer unruly in for the children.” rights. He believes April DeBoer and the classroom and couldn’t believe it was If something were to happen to one Jayne Rowse are heroes along with many the same student. The other used to hide party of either of these couples tomorrow, other same-sex couples who decide to behind his fathers, wearing sunglasses, there are significant risks for many of participate in the foster care system and/ pretending to be “invisible.” He is now the children adopted by that parent not or adoption. the class clown. legally recognized by the state. “I want to be very clear that there is “They [the Michigan legislature] don’t “At a time where kids would be going nothing in the Michigan constitution that have the same views and opinions on through the worst trauma of their life, losing the parent that is providing them says Bill Schuette has to argue that foster single parents as they do gay parents. To kids would be better off as orphans than having two gay parents. There is nothing in Michigan constitution that says that,” Totten said. “There has been a lot of attention on I don’t think it is fair to children to say ‘you’re legally the trial that’s been underway, on the not allowed to have two loving parents.’ marriage side of it, but there has been “ little on one important issue which is the impact that this has on kids, adoptions - Johnny Persyn, a couple with his partner Daniel for just shy of 16 years. and on issues like the ones you face as Together they have adopted” five children originally from foster care. you have adopted foster kids,” Totten told the couples. “Really it is about all of you and about hundreds of other people who are not willing to adopt foster kids until some things change in the law.” with their new forever home, now you According to the Michigan Department tell us that we cannot both be parents, but put in the aspect of they could be ripped of Human Service’s website, there are singly we could be, I just don’t know how away from the only other parent they approximately 13,000 Michigan children anybody could take that opinion,” Daniel have. To just put a label on it and say who are in the foster care system at any said. “I don’t think it is fair to children to ‘gay marriage is wrong’ or ‘same-sex given time. On the front of the website say ‘you’re legally not allowed to have marriage is wrong’ it has so many other it reads,”We need your help to provide a two loving parents.’” layers to it,” Derbyshire said. safe, nurturing home for these children There have been a string of 40 state until they can be returned to their Finally Married and federal courts who have ruled in families.” While a same-sex couple can favor of same-sex marriage over the be foster parents in Michigan, they cannot Partnered for the last six years, Kathy past two years, with one exception in currently jointly adopt. This was a pivotal Derbyshire and Lisa Malburg were Louisiana. fact that moved Federal District Court finally married in New York this past “Consistent with my oath of office, Judge Bernard Friedman to encourage July. Malburg brought in two children when I become Attorney General I will the DeBoer-Rowse family to challenge from a previous relationship, but together drop this appeal and be very clear at the Michigan Marriage Amendment. they decided they would adopt and go this point in time that this violates the Friedman saw the amendment as the through the foster care system. They are federal constitution and its promise to obstacle which prevents co-adoption. If now proud mothers of five kids. all Americans that they will have equal the couple could legally marry, then they “When you’re adopting children representation under the law. I just want could legally co-adopt. through the foster care system, they to end by saying this is egregious because Johnny and Daniel Persyn have been need stability, they need insurance of the harm it causes to your kids and a couple for just shy of 16 years and and that piece of it can cause a lot of thousands of other kids like them. So the together have adopted five children confusion and even seem a little unstable promise that I have made is I will always originally from foster care. They joined as opposed to their care when they be a voice for the people of Michigan and the foster care system in 2007 and were in the foster care system with us,” especially our most vulnerable citizens. adopted their first children in 2008, two Derbyshire said. “In itself, it sends a big You know, like our little ones in the foster sibling boys. message to the kids like, ‘why are you care system are at the top of that list. If Johnny decided to be the stay at home okay to be my mom when I am a foster we pull this off we are going to change dad since Daniel had the sustaining child but then only one of you can be the direction of our state on this issue and income. my parent when it comes to adoption?’” you guys are going to feel that directly.” “What is going through my mind now Malburg is able to cover her partner’s BTL has strongly endorsed Mark is that if something were to happen to health insurance through domestic Totten. No matter how the election Daniel, I was actually told that if another partner benefits at work. However, since results fall, couples like Johnny and family member doesn’t step up and take their youngest isn’t legally Malburg’s Daniel Persyn, and Kathy Derbyshire the kids, that our children could go back son, he goes without insurance. and Lisa Malburg, will be waiting to see into foster care instead of being with “Some companies have domestic the outcome of the 6th Circuit in DeBoer me,” Johnny said. “That is one of the partner benefits. It’s important to know V Snyder and the impact it will have in main things that bothers me because our that while a spouse is directly covered providing protections to their children. children have made big strides since they and the money that goes into that is came into care with us.” pre-taxed money, where Lisa covers

8 BTL | Nov. 6, 2014 www.PrideSource.com equality and Totten has said on multiple ® 6th Circuit occasions, that once elected he would drop Continued from p. 4 the repeal and the race towards legal same- Wine And Win At HARC’s Annual Wine sex marriage in the state would look quite to uphold the constitutionality of the Michigan different. Marriage amendment? “If you think about the beginning of the Cellar Raffle And Fundraiser “It would essentially force the Supreme DeBoer v Snyder case, the Oakland County Court’s hand because what would happen is Clerk (Lisa Brown) was originally named we would have a circuit split. We currently The HIV/AIDS Resource Center Jesse Kramer Trio and music from the as a defendant. And the Oakland County have all these circuits that have said yes to (HARC) will hold its 11th Annual Wine Outloud Chorus Queertet. Clerk changed [their stance], and so the marriage equality and then we would have Cellar event this November. The event, Over 100 bottles of wine will be raffled Oakland County Clerk wound up being a the 6th sticking out like a sore thumb, saying which features a raffle, silent auction off during the fundraiser, including a prize hostile witness for the defense. Lisa Brown no. That would create a dispute. The thing is, and wine tasting in Ann Arbor, benefits of over 50 bottles awarded to one lucky [Mark Schauer’s running mate, and Oakland no judge likes being overturned. With that HARC and its many services which help winner. Other possible winnings include County Clerk] essentially delivered testimony provide medical care, housing, food and bottles autographed by the likes of Itzhak that did not in any way support to those living with HIV/AIDS. Perlman, Jackson Browne, Elvis Costello, agree with what the HARC is a private non-profit that offers Paul Reiser and other local and national state was putting forth,” comprehensive HIV and AIDS services celebrities. Raffle tickets can be purchased Calcagno said. “I think and community resources to those living for $10 each in advance at Ann Arbor’s aut\ that is what you’d see in Washtenaw, Jackson, Lenawee and BAR and Common Language Bookstore if the 6th Circuit were Livingston Counties. and at HARC’s Ypsilanti office. Raffle to rule against us and This year’s event will be conducted ticket holders need not be present to win. Mark Totten were to get by Master of Ceremonies, Russ Collins. elected, you would see a Collins, the executive director/CEO of different defense from The 11th Annual Wine Cellar will begin at Michigan Theater, will host the evening of the state. It would still 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 20 at Vineyard wining and dining. A diverse collection of go forward, but it would wines are provided by local personalities, Church, 275 Platt Road, Ann Arbor. Tickets are be very different.” wine collectors, bon vivants and chefs, $50 in advance, $60 at the door. Reservations Lori Pimlott and Jill including Everyday Wines. Hearty are recommended and can be made by calling Calvin were one of the appetizers prepared by Bona Sera and HARC’s Ypsilanti office at 734-572-9355, ext. roughly 300 couples handcrafted chocolates from Sweet Gem 240 or by visiting www.hivaidsresource.org/ that were married in Confections accompany the libations. Live winecellar. March just after Judge entertainment includes live jazz from the Michigan Equality’s Sommer Foster and Gina Calcagno from Michigan For Friedman struck down Marriage, discuss the possible scenarios on the horizon once the 6th Circuit the state’s marriage ban. Federal Court ruling is in regarding same-sex marriage.The ruling is expected any day. Watch Day of Decision on Facebook for updates. “For anybody who decides to wait, we got married in March and said, it’s really difficult to read tea leaves,” I was a little disappointed, because family Calcagno pressed. wasn’t going to be there. Were there going to be demonstrators? What was it going to be 6th Circuit Rules In Favor Of like? And it was the best experience I could have ever imagined because we were with DeBoer Family people who understood where we were coming If the 6th Circuit court does decide in favor from and we had a great day,” Calvin said. of marriage equality, and a stay is not issued, The couple is eagerly waiting for the time Foster says it is time to head to the local county when Michigan’s same-sex married couples clerk’s office and get hitched. have equal representation under the law and Equality Michigan is working with various the roughly 1,000-plus benefits that come with county clerks’ offices to see who will be open heterosexual marriages. late or open over a possible weekend, to marry “My previous partner died of cancer and couples. Couples will need to bring their state I was not allowed to make decisions on her IDs, birth certificates, and will need to prove burial because I was considered a stranger. that at least one party is a resident of the county That shouldn’t happen, we’re married,” and bring any divorce documentation that has Calvin said. been issued. Calcagno closed the meeting by issuing One attendee asked if there’s a rush to get a message of strength and courage that married? Foster says she cannot say either way. marriage equality will come to the state and “When Judge Friedman ruled, we had no that Michiganders of all types will have full idea he would not issue a stay. It is completely equality. unpredictable what the 6th Circuit will do. We “If you have friends and family members, are going to be prepared for any possibility. talk to everyone. Have those conversations. If you want to get married you have to be And they can be hard. And be ready to debrief. prepared for any possibility. Attorney Generals And if you need someone to debrief with when cannot issue a stay. But they can request one,” you have one of those conversations, please get Foster said. in touch with me afterwards. If it doesn’t go Mark Totten could win as Michigan’s next well, know that you have someone to debrief Attorney General and Mark Schauer could be with. Because this is going to be hard work, elected the next Governor. Both candidates but I promise you this is going to be worth it. have come out in complete support of marriage This really is our fight. These are our years and we can bring marriage equality to Michigan.” www.PrideSource.com Nov. 6, 2014 | BTL 9 Diary Of A Possibility Parting Glances

OPINION BY CHARLES ALEXANDER

anuary 3, 2050 Dear Diary: Another same-sex couple has been “relocated.” My neighbors two doors down. The boys who did a wonderful job of gentrifying that old house on Wells Street. JDidn’t really get to know them, but they always waved. Said hello. Just gone! Last week, two others. Tom and Martin. Belonged to my block club. Gadabouts, but great gardeners. Just disappeared. Very strange. Within days their condoplex - furniture, everything - was ‘appropriated’ by Theocratic America Party members. Last night there was a parking lot burning of their books and antique CD collection. Rare albums of Garland, Streisand, Elvis Presley (whoever he was). Come to think of it, as much as I didn’t like them - too secretive, if you ask me - Margo and her longtime partner Ella - in their mid-70s - seem also to have vanished. A nosy neighbor at Cafe & Pot whispered to me that they were taken away in a black van about 3 a.m. Screaming. I mind my own business. Or at least I try to Dear Diary. But something’s going on, not only in this small town, but our capitol as well. Anyone with half a brain could see it coming. 2045: all same-sex marriages voided, constitutionally made illegal. 2046: gays and lesbians must declare themselves homosexuals and register for one-year of mandatory, church/state sponsored reparative therapy. BTL Editorial If caught afterward in the slightest compromising behavior - say holding hands - LGBTs are subject to further RT for as long as it takes, and - a money maker for the state! - at their own expense. 2047: all homosexuals must get listed with 3-D photo, fingerprints, sex contacts, on the America First Homosexual Watch List. 2048: homosexuals are barred from teaching, practicing law, medicine, acting on stage or Looking Ahead hologram touch-and-feel videos, wide-screen movies. New Hollywood’s in a panic! s we prepare to cover Election Day 2014 here at Larsen to protect all of us - gay and transgender - from And! “All known, avowed, militant ‘homos’ (Theocratic America BTL, we are extremely hopeful that our vitally discrimination in employment, housing and public derogatory term for non-curable sexual deviants) “must wear a rainbow important U.S. Senate seat will be in the hands accommodation. An administration who will look at the armband, and observe a weekly 6:30 p.m. body WiFi monitoring curfew.” Aof U.S. Rep. Gary Peters. The latest polls heading into health needs of LGBT citizens as part of a comprehensive July 4, 2050: Dear Diary: Today I learn at a TA-sponsored church election day show Peters well ahead of Terri Lynn Land health policy. An administration that will focus on HIV picnic that recalcitrant homos are being relocated to Canyon Center West. (thank goodness). He is a staunch ally of the LGBT in a deep and effective way. An administration that will My friend Martha, who (sworn to hush-hush to these cursive writing community and we need him in the U.S. Senate. The establish welcoming policies that encourage young written diary pages) has several suspect acquaintances. She received a Senate is a body, that among many critical things, people to move/stay in the state. An administration that smuggled-out postcard: “Having a trying time. Overcrowded. Bad ass confirms federal judgeship appointments - including is fair to teachers, labor and seniors. Lets hope that as place. Health concerns. Miss family. Prayers. D. L. ‘Bro’ Jones.” the all so important U.S. Supreme Court seats. We will you read this, it has indeed come true. Sept. 15, Easter Sunday: Theocratic America Party President Mitt not know which party will control the Senate as we go Finally, we are hoping for an upset in state House Harkinback spoke on Total Fox All Channels America about the to press (watch our online analysis in the days ahead), District 98 – a traditionally Republican leaning district concessions we have to make during TA’s Ten Year Plan. Asked for a but we are confident Michigan will be in friendly hands. – were extremist, far-right and homophobic candidate “unity of vision,” a need to “be vigilant for any behavior or opinion, We are thrilled that we are very likely to see the first Gary Glenn is hoping to win. Many people across the covert or otherwise, that’s unpatriotic, anti-state, going against political openly gay state officials elected to our state house for political spectrum, including reasonable Republicans, and/or America’s theocratic good. It’s the duty of every thinking citizen the first time in close to a decade. Enter Jon Hoadley have come together to stop Glenn and support Joan to report any abomination of loyalty.” of Kalamazoo and Jeremy Moss of Southfield. The Brausch’s campaign. Let’s see what the result of these Oct. 31, Halloween: Picked up the Banner of Victory, unfortunately two have fought and won critical primaries in strong efforts are come Wednesday. our only news source. This item caught my eye. “Washington, D.C. Democratic districts, that most likely guarantee they And looking down the road - we expect to see a ruling has become the first zone to be ‘homo free’. This thorough ‘cleansing’ will win their seats. They are smart, young, energetic from the 6th Circuit Federal Court very soon, some say is the result of thousands of undercover reports, well-coordinated and will fight for our rights from a seat at the table of by the end of this week perhaps, deciding the fate of psychological efforts, low-visibility, rapid roundup strategies. government power. marriage for same-sex couples here in the state. Yes it’s “RT accounts for much of this outcome; so much so that, as approved We are also hopeful that the man whose name is on all tea leaf reading at this point, but one can hope that therapy for brain rewiring, it will be used - along with mind altering our anti-gay marriage lawsuit is dumped tonight. DeBoer the U.S. Supreme Court decision Oct. 6, to not take religious techniques - for other anti-America First asocial tendencies. V Snyder, the ugly lawsuit seeking to deny LGBT any marriage cases, has impacted the judges deciding “Those ‘homos’ not responding to RT are relocated to fasting and Michiganders their basic rights by using propaganda, Michigan’s fate. We are hoping that very soon marriage penance camps in an off-limits Grand Canyon concentration area. ‘Rest was shot down by Federal Judge Friedman in March... equality will come to Michigan ... with no need to appeal assured,’ stresses President Harkinback, ‘no government tax monies Well frankly we cannot wait to welcome in a Schauer/ to the U.S. Supreme Court! are used to support these aberrant lifestyle incarcerations. Many may Brown administration. One that promises to work with That said, marriage equality will hardly be the end of perish. Sadly, that’s their choice. God and country come first! Homos our community in the critical areas of amending Elliott- the hard work that is ahead for LGBT folks. come last. If at all.’”

10 BTL | Nov. 6, 2014 www.PrideSource.com State House Office Computers Had Certain HIV, Reproductive Health Websites Blocked

BY TODD HEYWOOD officials from both chambers of the you can go to right to life. Guttmacher legislature, including Speaker Bolger Institute is blocked but abstinence.net LANSING – Staff for state and Senate Majority leader Randy isn’t.” representatives may have discovered Richardville. “I didn’t try to visit abstinence.net over the last week that they were unable An employee from a state but I know as of yesterday college. to access certain sites related to HIV representative’s office provided Political studentsforlife.org and studentsforlife. and reproductive health. A spokesperson Hors D’ouevres with a screen shot of org were both blocked by the filter as ‘sex for Speaker of the House Jase Bolger their attempt to access the nationally education,’” wrote Anna Heaton, a GOP (R-Marshall) says a recent software recognized website for HIV Plus communications staffer, in an email on update is to blame. Magazine. The employee had attempted Wednesday morning. “It definitely was “The nonpartisan Legislative Service to access the website, only to be notified not just PP [Planned Parenthood].” Bureau manages web traffic for the entire it was blocked because it was deemed The problem has been fixed, Adler Legislature. Use of the Internet by staff “sex education.” This information came said. and the public is subject to limitations to light Tuesday afternoon. “Because this was brought to our to certain sites based upon content, We reached out to Katie Carey, attention, LSB will now exclude the which would include pornography, spokesperson for Democratic Leader of category of sex education from the sexually explicit language, nudity or the House Rep. Tim Griemel. filtering service and the sites mentioned other suggestive information,” says Ari “It is no surprise that House above should be accessible,” Adler Adler. “The network service for website Republicans, who want to legislate said. “As new software gets installed filtering was recently upgraded and now birth control for women or require them and new sites are developed, we are includes the category of ‘sex education.’ to have an additional rider to cover continuously reviewing and altering the The websites HIVPlusMag.com and abortions in the case of miscarriage filter service we use and will continue PlannedParenthood.org were deemed or rape, would want to restrict access to address concerns that are brought to ‘sex education’ by the filter and were to legitimate medical articles in our our attention.” automatically blocked.” building,” Carey told us in a statement. The Legislative Service Bureau is Then she added, “In our building overseen by a committee of elected you can’t visit Planned Parenthood, but

www.PrideSource.com Nov. 6, 2014 | BTL 11 Intimate Partner Violence Report Out James David Manning OPINION BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI BY BTL STAFF IPV report. “There is an obvious statistics found that bisexual need to support programs and survivors were 1.6 times more The National Coalition of Anti- services that are focused on this likely to experience sexual think we all know that Starbucks idea of sex, intercourse, and dating Violence Programs released their group of intimate partner violence violence, 2.2 times more likely is a little, well, gay. I mean, they on a lower, less visible, less social 2013 report on intimate partner survivors - people of color who to experience physical violence sell drinks like the Gingerbread scale because of the nature of what violence (IPV) and it shows a identify as LGBTQ and/or are and 2.6 times more likely than ILatte, Peppermint Mocha, and the they want to do and who they are. continuing increase in IPV towards affected by HIV.” their straight counterparts to be Frappuccino And the reason why they’re fighting LGBT people. Transgender survivors were injured as a result of IPV. The (which is the so hard to get public recognition and The team collected 2,697 reports reported at 1.9 times more likely NCAVP’s 2013 data reinforces the gayest coffee legality for what they’re doing is so from 17 different states, including to face physical violence, 3.9 times findings of the National Intimate drink name they don’t have to stoop to all of these Michigan, and revealed 21 reported more likely to face discrimination Partner Violence Survey (NISVS), ever). Not dark alley measures that they have to IPV homicides. That number is up due to IPV and 1.5 times more a prevalence study on IPV in to mention seek out for having sex.” significantly from 19 instances LGB communities that was the fact that If that hurt your brain to read as in 2011 and is three times as published by the Center for the company much as it hurt mine to transcribe, high as the six documented Disease Control in 2010. supported let me break it down for you: cases from 2010. People of color make up The NISVS revealed that marriage Homos lurk at Starbucks seeking For the third year, gay 61 percent of bisexual equality in out clandestine sex, giving each other men were disproportionately the majority of LGBTQ survivors and women and 37 percent of affected by IPV homicides “ bisexual men experience James David Manning Washington Ebola. Okay? And this will only stop are disproportionately impacted by state. And if gays get their relationships legally with 76 percent of reported rape, physical violence and/ rumor has it they flew a rainbow recognized. Although it is not clear cases resulting from gay male domestic violence within relationships. or stalking in their lifetimes flag over their headquarters once. what will happen after that, though victims. The 2013 report within IPV. So, yeah, Starbucks obviously is showed a small increase in IPV This is a national wakeup call. Thirty-eight percent of anti-family and a terrible, terrible survivors identifying as gay at survivors of reported IPV place. If you’re a backwards World Manning, of the ATLAH 42.8 percent; which is slightly were between the ages of Net Daily-loving idiot. Which just higher than the 2012 findings. 19 and 29 and found that Worldwide Missionary in “We are deeply concerned ” age group to be more likely means more Starbucks for LGBT folks and their friends. Hooray! Harlem, has some pretty about the continued record to experience injury and Everybody else can get their coffee high number of intimate require medical attention. from a seldom-washed coffee pot in interesting theories about partner violence homicides The record suggests their church basement. The end. No that occurred this year, which that policymakers and – Mary Case from the Los Angeles LGBT Center harm, no foul. Ebola, homosexuality, and is part of a three-year trend in funders fund LGBTQ I mean, unless Starbucks became, high homicide rates affecting and HIV-affected specific oh, I don’t know, a breeding ground Starbucks, specifically how our communities,” said Justin IPV prevention initiatives for Ebola. But no one would claim Shaw, executive director of support early intervention such a crazy thing. the three go together like Kansas City Anti-Violence and prevention programs No one except Pastor James David Project. “The truly alarming likely to be injured in public for youth, enact compassionate, Manning, that is. Manning, of the pumpkin+spice+latte. number of gay men killed due spaces. comprehensive immigration ATLAH Worldwide Missionary in to intimate partner violence “Transgender people face reform to reduce barriers for LGBT Harlem, has some pretty interesting indicates a need to expand the increased risk of violence because and HIV-affected immigrant theories about Ebola, homosexuality, from what Manning is saying it looks national discourse around intimate of discrimination based on their survivors and ensure that the and Starbucks, specifically like gays will then stop lurking in the partner violence, to ensure that gender identity and transphobia federal government collects how the three go together like shadows and just start Ebola-sexing it includes gay men, bisexual within intimate partnerships,” said information on sexual orientation pumpkin+spice+latte. out in the open. Probably. people, transgender, and gender M.E. Quinn from The Network/ and gender identity whenever In an episode of The Manning Manning goes on to say that this non-conforming people. This is a La Red in Boston, a survivor-led, demographic data is requested Report, Manning claims that he is on is all Obama’s fault because he was crisis that affects everyone.” social justice organization that in studies, surveys and research; “Ebola watch,” an says that Starbucks born in Kenya. And that furthermore LGBT and HIV-affected people works to end LGBTQ partner and the Office on Violence is the Ground Zero for the disease Obama wants everyone in America of color remained the majority abuse. “To really address the Against Women should continue because of its “clientele,” which to get Ebola so that he can declare of intimate partner survivors needs of transgender survivors, to implement the LGBT-inclusive Manning identifies as “generally martial law. at 50.2 percent of those who we need to address transphobic Violence Against Women Act to upscale sodomites who frequent Oh, and Manning adds, reported. This group was also laws, policies, and institutions improve access to services for Starbucks [and] sit there with their “Remember, I told you back in 2007 more likely to report physical while also providing supportive LGBT and HIV-affected survivors computers.” that Obama was a homo.” violence, discrimination, threats programs that address transgender of IPV. or intimidation, and harassment people explicitly and that engage “It’s a meeting place, they Keep in mind, this is the guy who If you or someone you know is as a result of partner violence, and transgender survivors in preventing exchange a lot of body fluids or posted on the sign outside of his experiencing IPV contact the National was more likely to experience this this violence.” hands shaken and contact,” he say, church: “Jesus would stone homos. LGBT Help Center at 800-246-7743, sounding not at all like a crazy Stoning is still the law.” So we know in public spaces. Undocumented survivors Equality Michigan at 866-962-1146, person. he’s the real deal. “People of color make up the were 2.9 times more likely to “I am now ... warning people to So if Manning is warning the majority of LGBTQ survivors and experience discrimination within Affirmations at 800-398-4297, The stay away from Starbucks if you completely insane to stay away from are disproportionately impacted PIV relationships. Norio Umezu Ruth Ellis Center at 313-252-1950, don’t want to get Ebola,” he says, Starbucks, then, really, Starbucks is by domestic violence within from Community United Against Ozone House at 734-662-2222 or the “because a large number of the apparently the place to be. So go sit relationships. This is a national Violence says the abusive partners SafeHouse at 734-995-5444 to get help sodomites and the LGBT crowd that there with your computer and have a wakeup call,” said Mary Case often threaten their immigration or speak to a help line professional who usually, and continue to, approach the Pumpkin Spice Latte. For freedom. from the Los Angeles LGBT status. will get you to safety. Center in a press release on the Additional reports on survivor

12 BTL | Nov. 6, 2014 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com Nov. 6, 2014 | BTL 13 – do you have any of Melissa Etheridge On those? I don’t. I pretty much Freeing Herself From answer to whatever anybody calls me. (Laughs) A Major Label, Other Especially if that person is Linda Wallem, your wife. People’s Opinions Exactly. “Yes, dear!” To quote one of your songs, was BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI the process of making this t’s been more than 20 years since Melissa album like “the letting go”? Etheridge, after declaring herself a lesbian That was exactly it. Iat an inaugural ball for President Clinton, granola, which is Thank you so much for came out on record. Released in 1993, the so very Melissa seeing that, because last artist’s benchmark album, “Yes, I Am,” would Etheridge-y of year I did cut all the strings. signify a giant leap forward for the LGBT her – the rocker All of them – every single one. community – and, also, Etheridge’s career. discusses how “flat I gutted my whole team that I had The landmark LP, her mainstream lining” influenced her behind me for 20-plus years. I just breakthrough, came before Ellen, before decision to go indie, said, “Look, it’s time. I need a new “Will & Grace,” before Laverne Cox graced why she stopped model. I need a new way of doing the cover of TIME. Putting her career on the reading her own press this.” I completely flat lined and line, Etheridge still stood like a pillar of hope, and which song of had no interest in just business valiance and torch-carrying fortitude. And it hers she didn’t want as usual. In doing so, I went and wouldn’t be the last time. to do. talked with and interviewed a bunch Taking another shot in the dark with “This of managers, record companies, Is M.E.,” a DIY disc released on Etheridge’s lawyers, agents and dozens of own label, M.E. Records, the 53-year-old goes The album is called people, and I found out a lot about independent for the first time since signing “This Is M.E.,” a play me in doing so. I got a new view of with Island Records in the mid ’80s. what other people in the business think on your initials. But Catching up with Etheridge one recent about me and my business and (learned afternoon – she’s crunching on some how about nicknames Photo: John Tsiavis that) I don’t need those old structures

14 BTL | Nov. 6, 2014 www.PrideSource.com INFO career alternatives? Yeah, indeed. Melissa Etheridge What kind of pressure were you experiencing 7:30 p.m. Nov. 16 from the label? At the time, were they forcing Michigan Theater you to make radio hits? 603 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor www.michtheater.org (Pauses) Well, there’s only so much you can do with me. I am what I am, and I know that on “Lucky” the song “Breathe” was not anymore. Because of the new technology, my song at all. That was one that the record I can reach my fans. I have a fan base, I company came to me and said, “Look, we have social media, I can let every single think this could be a hit.” I did something that one of them know. I can sell just as many I will never do again. I like the song – it’s a records as I had been selling with a record great song – but I really felt like I was doing company, and I can own my record. I could something I didn’t wanna do. I got cancer take charge of this, and I don’t have to afterwards and went, “Never again.” answer to a record company. At this moment in your career, you’re really Was it something you regretted not doing embracing solitude. sooner? Because I bet you wished you owned Yes, I am. the rights to “Come to My Window.” How have all these changes reshaped how you Absolutely. You have to just look ahead, approach music and how though. You can’t look you approached this back and go, “Ah, all album? those songs!” That’s It’s reinvigorated my just the way it is. love for the industry Every single person and the art form What’s the best part beyond just singing about being your own who makes that choice to and performing, boss? “ but actually with The responsibility. stand up and present him- the writing and the There’s no one I producing and creating can blame. I have or herself in life as who of these songs. My god, to believe in every I think there are at least single one of these they are – every single time five different producers songs. I had to believe on this record and I that, in the studio one person does that – it worked with others working with each of changes the world.. that didn’t quite work these producers and out. I got to work with musicians, I was taking all kinds of people. full responsibility for I threw out to my every single note on management, “Think this album. ” outside the box,” and that’s how I ended up Had you been feeling a lack of support from your with RoccStar and Jerry “Wonda.” label? Oh yeah. From “Lucky” in 2004 and on, Is it easier to write with a broken heart or a the record industry was, every year, falling happy heart? in huge amounts and getting less and less, Well, it’s not easy to write in any situation, and also, those albums were not incredibly but it depends. I think one has to learn how commercial albums because they were to make any personal state a state that one introspective. I was investigating myself and can create from. I can write “Who Are You my own spirit and thoughts, and so those Waiting For?” – which is both. Yeah, I was albums weren’t gonna be big commercial brokenhearted and smashed and lifted up, hits, so they didn’t get a lot of attention. so I can create from both. I can create from an old memory of, “You done me wrong,” On “Lucky,” with the song “Meet Me in the and write “Ain’t That Bad.” That’s the craft Dark,” you actually addressed this sense of of writing. You give me even a mundane abandonment you were feeling at the time subject and I will craft a human experience regarding the label’s lack of support. Isn’t that around it. right? Tell me the story behind the first song you wrote Exactly – I did. I sat down and said, “I’m for the album. gonna write this song for those people who listen to albums to find that song that’s just There are two. I wrote them by myself special.” before I brought them to a producer and those were “Who Are You Waiting For?” Was it then that you first started thinking of See Melissa, page 16 www.PrideSource.com Nov. 6, 2014 | BTL 15 ® a part of what I do – so I’m very happy that Melissa when I start these songs that I’ve written, Continued from p. 15 people know that. So yes, I am.

and “A Little Hard Hearted.” For those two, Knowing all you know about yourself now, what I sat down the way I normally do: I actually would you tell the Melissa Etheridge of the ‘80s? sat down at the piano because I like writing “Hey, you can relax. Don’t worry. Don’t get on the piano; it brings out different musical all worked up about it, because it’s all right – things than if I write on the guitar. So “A you’re gonna make it.” Little Hard Hearted” was actually more of The best part of the whole thing is the a ballad than it ended up being. But yeah, journey – it’s actually the getting there, not that was one of the first ones. It was like, “I the being there. It’s who I met in the process, don’t wanna be broken any more. I wanna and the memories. Just the whole experience move on,” which is what we’ve done. With is what it’s about, and I’m so grateful for it. (ex-wife) Tammy (Lynn Michaels), both of us have worked really hard to put all As one of the first out public figures, what’s your the crap behind us and just be two loving proudest moment as a gay icon? households that can work together for the It’s when a teenager or a successful 27-year- kids. old will come up to me and say, “Thank you. How did you deal with the tabloids that pitted You saved my life. If it weren’t for you, I you two against each other? would’ve never come out and been able to live the life I’ve lived.” And what can I say? I just didn’t go online for a couple of years! That’s worth everything. (Laughs) I don’t look at that stuff because Every single person who makes that choice it’s this sense of, I have no control over to stand up and present him- or herself in what people are thinking. I know what my life as who they are – every single time one truth is and there’s no way I can convince person does that – it changes the world. It other people of it. They’re gonna believe goes out and it changes others, and if they’re whatever they believe, and I just have to doing it in public and living their truth – I move on through this. Time will always mean, come on, Ellen and Michael Sam! – tell, and the truth always come out, so I’m they change the world. just gonna be the best person I can be and move on. I could get stuck in that. And What do you want your legacy to be? that’s like a whirlpool. That’ll just suck you I would love for it to be, “Hey, that Melissa right down into it. Etheridge, she just changed the world a little Have you ever read your own press? Googled bit.” That maybe – because I was here – life was great for some other folks, you know? “Melissa Etheridge”? That’d be nice. Oh, sure. Eight times out of 10, it’s a pleasant experience. Other times it’s, “I didn’t need to Which song of yours will likely be played at your see that.” funeral? Having spent so much of your life on stage – (Sings creepily) “Coooome to my windoooow.” (Laughs) I really haven’t how has that changed for you? How is getting thought about it. That’s one thought I haven’t out on stage different now than it was when you thought about! I’ll leave that up to you guys, first got out there? OK? I’m different. I mean, I’ve been on stage since I was 11 years old, so I went through In 2002, you released your memoir “The Truth a lot of being on stage when no one knows Is...: My Life in Love and Music.” Would you who you are, being on stage when you’re consider writing another? singing other people’s music, being on Oh yeah. That one was just the first third of stage when no one’s paying attention – I my life. I have much more to write about. Life know that. happens so quickly that I haven’t even jotted I also know the wonderful feeling of anything down, but I think about it all the time. being on stage when people are expecting The next book I’m gonna write, I will have sat something. I was always thrilled when I down and taken a large chunk of time to write it walked on stage and someone paid money because I think it deserves that. to come see me. Now when I walk on stage, I haven’t even sung a note and people are What would you call this second book? going crazy. That’s just ... that’s a dream Something like, “The Truth Changes.” come true. To start a song and people know Because it does! With my mother and my it – I love it, love it, love it. sister, I certainly don’t hold the same sort of angst that I used to at all. That’s so far away Was that something you imagined for yourself as from me. I can look back and tell a story that a kid? Are you the artist you set out to be? I told and I look at it a little differently now, Yeah, I knew that I wanted to be a singer/ because I’ve learned more things and I’m a songwriter. I knew that I wanted to write the different person. songs too – that it was important that that be

16 BTL | Nov. 6, 2014 www.PrideSource.com MICHIGAN’S LGBT YELLOW PAGES Hear Me Out BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI

marching-band beat and pointed message Taylor Swift, ‘1989’ to haters, you’re not. You can’t. And to think you were worried about Ebola. I Wish You Would Love conquers all – even petty fights with Taylor Swift. “It’s all good,” Swift expresses, moving on from whatever drama came between her and this ex. All the while, some guitar licks akin to “She Drives Me Crazy” and a synth-infused surge hold you captive, leaving little chance for any kind of momentary parting. Bad Blood The girl-next-door moves in for the kill on “Bad Blood,” cautioning the nameless backstabber(s) about this word called karma. Note to Swift: You’re really fun when you’re feisty. Wildest Dreams Available In Print & Online She loves cats so much that here, she becomes one. Purring like a sex kitten @ www.Pridesource.com ready to pounce – what would Reba say? – Taylor channels her inner Lana during a chorus that is undeniably Del Rey-inspired. She even says “hell.” Over 1000 LGBT-Friendly How You Get the Girl Businesses and Organizations Tay and her cats obviously spent many a night consuming relationship advice from Cosmo and bopping to Britney aybe you’ve heard: Taylor Swift has a new album, her fifth, and it’s Spears’ “Oops! I Did It Again” album, and then getting bored by both and really good. It’s actually the closest thing to a perfect pop release switching on the Disney Channel. I this year (that’s right: Nashville’s darling has gone full-on ’90s M mean, how else do you explain this bubblegum), which basically means that, if you’re still resisting the T. Swizzle, song? it’s time you work on that. Because remember how un-cool it was to get down with the Swifties? Good luck hearing “1989” and not becoming one. This Love Fine, Taylor; take my tears. Take them Welcome To New York wherein Swift wears her heart – and all. If the feelings-tornado triggered by Taylor’s New York is as picture-perfect guitar-accented sonic chicness – on her a cherished scarf on “All Too Well” as an NYC souvenir shop postcard, and fabulously tailored sleeve. (from 2012’s “Red,” her last release) so what? This is her Oz. It’s rainbow- made your heart crack open, this lush bright, synth-swathed and Ryan Tedder- Out of the Woods little dream expressing relationship produced. It’s also at least partly Leave it to Swift to casually chronicle a realness will have you mopping up the dedicated to “Friends of Dorothy.” “You hospital trip (20 stitches were involved). waterworks. can want who you want,” she cheers, Because aside from fun. guitarist Jack liberated by the city’s gaydom. “Boys Antonoff’s anthemic production, the I Know Places and boys, and girls and girls.” Polaroid-specific imagery about said accident Swift steps into dangerous territory – and something as seemingly mundane as here. Overreaching with an edginess Blank Space moving furniture – is a rare pop treat. that doesn’t suit her in the first place, Anyone who’s pegged Swift as someone its brought-to-you-by-Tedder beat is who holds onto boys only until she’s All You Had To Do Was Stay also worn out – confirmation that you written her next hit – this one’s for Is that really Taylor Swift channeling can run, but you can’t hide from a not- you. The 24-year-old’s never been this your favorite lesbian twins? It sure is. great song. musically self-aware regarding the Even down to the synth-pitched “stay,” public’s relationship-challenged image this Max Martin make sounds like an Clean of her, and it doesn’t hurt that she does outtake from Tegan and Sara’s own, And the “Most Unlikely to Collaborate so over a playful bounce that bridges the equally-dazzling pop transformation with Taylor Swift” award goes to... luscious sounds of Lorde and ’80s pop. from last year, “Heartthrob.” Imogen Heap. Bringing her fantastical brand of folktronica to Swift’s rebirth, Style Shake It Off the track is proof that there’s nothing Love is a fashion statement on “Style,” She’s just gonna “shake, shake, shake the morning sun and a Heap of hopeful one of those “guess the guy” confessionals ... shake it off,” but with its infectious electric pings can’t fix. www.PrideSource.com Nov. 6, 2014 | BTL 17 JimToyCenter.org Lesbian Book Club 2 p.m. L2L, Eastwood Towne Center, Lansing. Meetup.com/Lansing-Lesbians-L2L Monthly Meeting 2 p.m. After the meeting, or anytime on our meeting day, First Friday @ Bosco 6:15 p.m. Gay 269-349-4234. Kglrc.org enjoy a Pizza & a beer or any other fine Professionals Social Group, 22930 OUTINGS LGBTQ-Friendly Yoga Class Just menu items at Shield's Of Troy and help Woodward Ave., Ferndale. Meetup.com/ support PFLAG Detroit at the same time. Gay-Professionals-Social-Group-MI/ B Yoga, 106 Island Ave., Lansing. Thursday, Nov. 6 Justbyoga.com PFLAG Detroit, 3333 Coolidge, Troy. Free HIV Testing 2 p.m. Free events/ Pflagdetroit.org anonymous HIV testing in-store at S3 Dinner for LGBT Seniors and Friends* ACLU of Michigan 2014 Annual Dinner Rainbow Book Club 4:30 p.m. every Thursday 2-8. Call to make an 5 p.m. An opportunity to enjoy fellowship 6:30 p.m. ACLU of Michigan, 20900 Book club dedicated to reading and appointment, or walk-ins welcome. together. Phoenix Community Church, Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn. 313-578- discussing classic and contemporary S3 Safe Sex Store and HARC, 1209 S. 2208 Winchell Ave., Kalamazoo. 269- 6818. Aclumich.org lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender University, Ann Arbor. 734-741-1434. 383-3222. [email protected] and queer literature.meeting since [email protected] S3safesexstore.com 10th Annual Red Ribbon Gala & Kglrc.org Auction 7 p.m. Tickets: $125-150. before 1998, every second Sunday of the month. Rainbow Book Club, 319 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-995-9867. Catherine. [email protected] Regardless Of (Narcotics Anonymous Meeting) 7 p.m. This is a closed This Friday, the ACLU of Michigan will hold its Annual meeting for addicts or those who think Dinner, hosting special guest Ta-Nehisi Coates. they might have a drug problem. This may be a Common Needs meeting, but The Atlantic senior editor and writer has recently any addict seeking recovery is welcome! published a well-talked about essay on the legacy of The time has come that any addict seeking recovery in the Washtenaw discrimination to African-Americans entitled “The Case area can find it. The more diverse the for Reparations.” fellowship, the more members we are able to reach! The goal is to make the In addition to Coates’ reception, the ACLU of Michigan message of recovery available to all so that any addict can come to NA and feel will honor those who have worked tirelessly to protect that they too belong in this fellowship! and ensure civil liberties and rights in the state. Jim Toy Community Center, 319 Braun Those honored this week include Matthew J. Lund, Court, Ann Arbor. 734-995-9867. jimtoycenter.org attorney of Pepper Hamilton LLP, for his extensive civil Drag Queen Addictions 10:30 liberty work, including serving as the lead attorney for the ACLU voting rights case that restored the p.m. LaBelle and Aretha Franklin thousands of wrongfully-purged names from the voting rolls before the 2008 election. impersonator April Summers brings her big personality to the stage as The Youth Leadership Team of the Michigan School-Justice Partnership will also be honored for their she introduces a lineup of drag stars. 18+. Inuendo Nightclub, Corner of activism for Detroit public schools. Nevada St. and Southbound I-75, Detroit. https:// facebook.com/inuendo. The 2014 Annual Dinner for the ACLU of Michigan will hold its reception at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, nightclub?rf=118209121607517 Nov. 7. The main program will follow at 7:30 p.m. All events will be held at the Henry Ford Museum, 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn. Tickets range from $50-1,000. For more information, call 313- Monday, Nov. 10 578-6818 or visit www.aclumich.org. Center Open - Drop In 7 p.m. Jim Toy Community Center, 319 Braun Court, Ann Arbor. 734-995-9867. Jimtoycenter.org Raising the Steaks: Dining Out at Lansing Area AIDS Network (LAAN), 750 Barkin' Good Time Pub Crawl 5:30 Same-Sex Couple Adoption 7 p.m. Logan's Roadhouse 4 p.m. Support E. Shaw Lane, East Lansing. 517-394- p.m. Pub crawl through Plymouth Faith Alliance of the KGLRC, 315 S. Affirmations by dining out at any of 3560. Laanonline.org to raise funds for Waggin' Tails Dog Rose St., Kalamazoo. 269-349-4234. seven locations in metro-Detroit every Rescue. 21+. Tickets: $18-25. Waggin' Kglrc.org First Thursday. Affirmations, Various. Friday Night Vibe @ The AFF Cafe, Tails Dog Rescue, Plymouth. 248-788- Goaffirmations.org Store & More 7 p.m. The Friday Night 7050. Waggintailsdogrescue.org Vibe is your original open mic night Tuesday, Nov. 11 Free HIV Testing 6 p.m. The AIDS in downtown Ferndale, whether your 25th Annual Tail Wagger's Bowl 8 Aff Action Night 6 p. m.educating Service Organization, Lansing. singing, acting, dancing or showcasing p.m. Bowling fundraiser that helps stock others about how to make Michigan the "Pantry 4 Paws." Registration: $15- Relationship Skills Class 6 p.m. your talent. DJ ACE will be here playing an equality state. Pizza provided for the hottest club hits. Free. Affirmations, 25. Tail Waggers 1990, 33775 Plymouth volunteers. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine A series for LGBTQ people and their Road, Livonia. Tailwaggers1990.org friends and loved ones. Topics include: 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. exploring personal and cultural 248-398-7105. [email protected] Nothing Like a Dame 8 p.m. Tickets: goaffirmations.org Goaffirmations.org relationships, values, arguments and $12. The Jewish Gay Network of Talk Tuesdays 6 p.m. Free. KICK, 41 making agreements, accountability Womyn's Film Night 7 p.m. Film: Eddie Michigan (JGN), 6600 W. Maple Road, Burroughs St. 109, Detroit. 313-285- and building community connections. Izzard: Circle - Actor-comedian Eddie West Bloomfield. 248-661-1900. 9733. e-kick.org Tickets: $5-35. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Izzard stops in at New York City's Town Jgnmi.org Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. Hall on his "Circle" tour, a hilarious Teens Using Drugs: What to Know and Drag Queen Bingo 10 p.m. A fun What To Do 7:30 p.m. A FREE, ongoing, Goaffirmations.org and highly original one-man show that alternative to your usual weekend hot pokes fun at Charlton Heston, Darth two-part series designed to help Family & Friends 7 p.m. Topics vary spots. Shows get out just early enough participants learn to understand, identify from month to month. This is a gathering Vader, Jesus, Machiavelli, Leonardo da for you to hit the local clubs or bars! Vinci and others. As always Izzard keeps and address adolescent alcohol/other of people who have family or friends Refreshments from our full coffee bar drug problems. Dawn Farm, 5305 Elliot who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, his audience laughing by delivering (coffees, teas, smoothies), sodas, water, a unique perspective that only his Dr., Ypsilanti. 734-485-8725. info@ transgender, or who are questioning and more. Tickets: $20. 18+. Five15, dawnfarm.org Dawnfarm.org their sexual orientation or gender particular brand of no-holds-barred 515 S. Washington Ave., Royal Oak. identity. Join us as we offer support, flamboyance can pull off. Affirmations, 248-515-2551. Five15.net share our experiences, and learn about 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248- Wednesday, Nov. 12 the issues impacting the LGBTQ and 398-7105. Goaffirmations.org Sunday, Nov. 9 Woman 2 Woman 6 p.m. Free. KICK, 41 Burroughs St. 109, 313-285- allied community. The Jewish Gay Pride Friday 9 p.m. The one and only Detroit. Unveiling of Donor Wall 11 a.m. 9733. E-kick.org Network of Michigan (JGN), 6600 W. gay night. 18+. Guys with college ID Brunch & Beverages. RSVP. Affirmations, Maple Road, West Bloomfield. 248- get in free before 11 p.m. Cover: $5+. 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248- 432-5661. Jgnmi.org Necto, 516 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor. 677-7211. Agabridge@goaffirmations. Thursday, Nov. 13 Red Robot 7 p.m. Ageplay group. Every 734-994-5835. Thenecto.com org Goaffirmations.org 2014 Annual Dinner & Auction 5 p.m. Tickets: $75-600. Freedom first Thursday. Jim Toy Community Older Lesbians Organizing 1 p.m. Center, 319 Braun Court, Ann Arbor. Saturday, Nov. 8 House, 1 Riverbank Dr., Detroit. Provides older Lesbians with the Freedomhousedetroit.org 734-995-9867. Jimtoycenter.org Fall LEAD Academy 10 a.m. KICK, 41 chance to meet like minded women Burroughs St. 109, Detroit. 313-285- in their common struggles, to share Toastmaster's International Friday, Nov. 7 9733. E-kick.org mutual interests and to play and work SpeakOUT! Club 7 p.m. Toastmasters will show you how to listen more Mini Farmers Market 11 a.m. Transgender Leadership Training 2 together.meets the 2nd Friday of every Saugatuck Center for the Arts, 400 p.m. Free. The ACLU of Michigan LGBT month. Older Lesbians Organizing, effectively, think on your feet and speak Culver St., Saugatuck. 269-857-2399. Project, 629 Pioneer St., Kalamazoo. 319 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-995- Sc4a.org 9867. [email protected] See Happenings, page 20

18 BTL | Nov. 6, 2014 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com Nov. 6, 2014 | BTL 19 Tournament" Tickets: $20. Flint Institute ® of Arts, 1120 E. Kearsley St., Flint. 6 p.m. Happenings Nov. 6. 810-234-1695. Flintarts.org Continued from p. 18 Majestic Detroit "DJ Shadow and Cut Chemist: Renegades of Rhythm". confidently Jim Toy Community Center, Majestic Theater, 4120-4140 Woodward 319 Braun Court, Ann Arbor. 734-995- Ave., Detroit. 8 p.m. Nov. 12. 313-833- 9867. Jimtoycenter.org 9700. Majesticdetroit.com Wine & Cheese Party 7:30 p.m. Ann Wharton Center "Dance Theatre Arbor LGBTQA Young Professionals' of Harlem". Wharton Center for the Social Meetup, 201 S. First St., Ann Performing Arts, Michigan State Arbor. Meetup.com/Ann-Arbor-LGBTQA- University, 750 E. Shaw Lane, East Young-Professionals-Social-Meetup Lansing. Nov. 12. 800-WHARTON. Whartoncenter.com MUSIC & MORE Classical THEATER Chamber Music Society of Detroit Civic/Community Theater "Chamber Music Society of Detroit at A View From the Bridge $18. Grosse Oakland University". Varner Recital Hall, Pointe Theatre at Grosse Pointe War Oakland University, 2200 N. Squirrel Memorial Fries Auditorium, 32 Lakeshore Road, Rochester. Oct. 12 - Nov. 9. 248- Road, Grosse Pointe Farms. Nov. 9 - 22. 370-2030. Chambermusicdetroit.org 313-881-4004. gpt.org Detroit Symphony Orchestra "Dvorak Other Desert Cities $18-22. & Sibelius". Max M. Fisher Music Center, Stagecrafters at Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. 3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Nov. 7 - Lafayette Ave., Royal Oak. Through Nov. Nov. 8. 313-576-5111. Dso.org 16. 248-541-6430. stagecrafters.org Comedy Parade $15-18. Peppermint Creek Theatre Company at Miller Performing Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase "Matt Arts Center, 6025 Curry Lane, Lansing. Braunger". Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase, Nov. 6 - 16. peppermintcreek.org 314 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor. Nov. 6 - Nov. 8. 734-996-9080. Aacomedy.com Songs for a New World $20. Birmingham Village Players, 34660 Concerts Woodward Ave., Birmingham. Through Nov. 9. 248-644-2075. Blind Pig "Kate Voegele" 18+. Tickets: birminghamvillageplayers.com $12-15. Blind Pig, 208 S. First St., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. Nov. 12. 734-996-8555. The Complete Works of William Blindpigmusic.com Shakespeare (abridged) [revised] $12-15. Emergent Arts at The Mix Blind Pig "Home Away From Home Studio Theatre, 8 N. Washington St., Tour Featuring: Brother Ali w/Bambu & Ypsilanti. Nov. 6 - 16. 734-985-0875. DJ LAST WORD" Hosted by MaLLY. 18+. emergentarts.com Tickets: $16-18. Blind Pig, 208 S. First St., Ann Arbor. 9 p.m. Nov. 11. 734-996- The Frog Prince and The Truly 8555. Blindpigmusic.com Remarkable Puss-in-Boots $5-7. All- of-us Express Children’s Theatre at East Chamber Music Society of Detroit Lansing Hannah Community Center, 819 "Celino Romero" Tickets: $15-30. Varner Abbot Road, East Lansing. Nov. 7 - 15. Recital Hall, Oakland University, 2200 N. 517-333-2580 ext. 0. cityofeastlansing. Squirrel Road, Rochester. 3 p.m. Nov. 9. com/allofus 248-370-2030. Chambermusicdetroit. org College/University Theater Lansing Symphony Orchestra A Room With a View $5-15. Lansing "Lansing Symphony Jazz Band". Community College Performing Arts at Wharton Center for the Performing Dart Auditorium, 500 N. Capitol Ave., Arts, Michigan State University, 750 E. Lansing. Nov. 7 - 16. 517-483-1488. lcc. Shaw Lane, East Lansing. 7 p.m. Nov. 9. edu/showinfo 800-WHARTON. Whartoncenter.com A Song for Coretta $10-12. The Studio Michigan Philharmonic "American Theatre, 4743 Cass Avenue, Detroit. Nov. POPSical" Tickets: $10-30. The Village 6 - 16. 313-577-2972. wsustudio.com Theater at Cherry Hill, 50400 Cherry Hill Road, Canton. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 8. 734- Hair $5-20. The University Theatre at 451-2112. Michiganphil.org Williams Theatre inside The Gilmore Theatre Complex at Western Michigan The Ark "Dom Flemons" Tickets: $15. University, 2200 Auditorium Dr., The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 Kalamazoo. Nov. 14 - 23. 269-387-7222. p.m. Nov. 10. 734-761-1800. Theark.org Wmutheatre.com The Ark "Aoife O'Donovan & Noam Peter Pan $10-20. Bonstelle Theatre, Pikelny" Tickets: $25. The Ark, 316 S. 3424 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Nov. 14 - Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. Nov. 11. 734- 23. 313-577-2960. bonstelle.com 761-1800. Theark.org The Ark "The Stray Birds" Tickets: $15. Professional The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 All Hands on Deck! $43-59. Macomb p.m. Nov. 12. 734-761-1800. Theark.org Center for the Performing Arts, 44575 The Ark "Tom Chapin" Tickets: $25. The Garfield Road, Clinton Township. 3 p.m. Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. Nov. 9. 586-286-2222. macombcenter. Nov. 7. 734-761-1800. Theark.org com The Magic Bag "Axis: The Jimi Hendrix Annapurna $12-42. The Purple Rose Tribute" With Tales of Cream (Cream Theatre Company, 137 Park St., Chelsea. Tribute). Tickets: $10. The Magic Bag, Through Dec. 20. 734-433-7673. 22920 Woodward Ave., Ferndale. Nov. 7. purplerosetheatre.org 248-544-3030. Themagicbag.com Anything Goes $54-59. Macomb Center The Magic Bag "Peter Hook & The for the Performing Arts, 44575 Garfield Light" Performing New Order's Low Life Road, Clinton Township. Nov. 14 - 15. & Brotherhood as well as a Joy Division 586-286-2222. macombcenter.com set. Tickets: $30. The Magic Bag, 22920 Buzz $17-20; $75 Black Tie Event Woodward Ave., Ferndale. Nov. 13. 248- on Nov. 15. Detroit Repertory Theatre, 544-3030. Themagicbag.com 13103 Woodrow Wilson, Detroit. Nov. 6 - Dec. 28. 313-868-1347. Other Flint Institute of Arts "Halo 4: 2v2 See Happenings, page 23

20 BTL | Nov. 6, 2014 www.PrideSource.com Please patronize our advertisers and let them know you appreciate their support for the LGBT community!

Puzzle solution on pg. 26

Clarf Largans, Jon Canniff, Jaclynn Cherry, Jason Petterson and Moni Jones in “The Dogman Prophecies.” Photo: Planet Ant Theatre Tall Tale Waggin’ At Planet Ant

BY JOHN QUINN REVIEW genetically altered lab animals from a secret government research facility in I was looking for a treat All Hallows’ The Dogman rural Otsego County. The cuddly kitty Eve, since the weather was playing the Prophecies cats are actually “vampurrs” with a thirst meanest trick of the night. Fortunately, for human blood. Death and destruction Planet Ant Theatre debuted a frightfully Planet Ant Theatre 2357 Caniff, Hamtramck ensue, but the screams are mostly funny new comedy, “The Dogman 9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7 screams of laughter in the audience. Prophecies,” a collaborative effort of the 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8 Light and vulgar, “The Dogman “Ant Process” class and their mentor/ 55 minutes; no intermission Prophecies,” isn’t a play for everyone. director, Shawn Handlon. $10 It will have instant appeal to anyone As Handlon describes in his curtain 313-365-4948 who enjoys a spoof of cherished www.Planetant.com speech, companies like The Second cultural traditions – in this case, horror City employ improvisational techniques stories. Experienced theater patrons, to develop sketch comedies – shows of the more unusual cryptozoological especially improvisation fans, will composed of short vignettes. Sometimes mysteries, the Dogman, is said to be a find interest in analyzing the creative the scenes are thematic, but it ain’t strange bipedal hominid with the head process. The play retains a loose sketch necessarily so. The “Ant Process” takes of a dog and the body of a man. First comedy structure, and the individual improv another step to create a complete, reported as far back as 1887, sightings scenes are more self-contained than integrated play. Director Handlon and of creatures resembling the description conventional comedies. What at first his “minions” – Jon Canniff, Jaclynn of the Dogman have been pouring out appear as three unrelated themes are Cherry, Moni Jones, Clint Lohman and of Michigan and other neighboring eventually braided into one coherent Jason Petterson, the Ant Class – tackle states ever since.” So don’t confuse story line – but much later in the plot a woolly tale of Michigan’s northern “The Dogman Prophecies” with “The than usual. This allows for a goodly Lower Peninsula. Mothman Prophecies,” a rather sketchy amount of time to play with the comic Every region in the world has its 2002 flick about a North Carolina para- elements. As a collaborative project, mysterious sightings. The Nepalese Yeti abnormality. The film’s twice as long, “Dogman” is a success. and American Bigfoot are probably the and Richard Gere not half as funny. Like ladies at a quilting bee, the most familiar to the general public, and Inflamed by a gruesome police half dozen contributors to “The it’s not surprising that metro Detroiters, account of his dog’s death, Billy Becker Dogman Prophecies” have stitched up a although probably acquainted with the arrives in Gaylord, Mich., hunting the patchwork. The play is no Frankenstein Red Dwarf, may not have heard of the cano-humanoid who, it’s reported, is Monster, though. If it actually were a Dogman. According to the website, the murderer. Regretfully, his mission quilt, it’s tight enough to warm you even Unexplained-mysteries.com: “One is complicated by the escape of the on a snowy November night. www.PrideSource.com Nov. 6, 2014 | BTL 21 Cool Cities Ann Arbor YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD • YOUR MARKET Pinpoint your ad dollars where they will do the most good . . . Advertise in the next Cool Cities TO PLACE AN AD CALL 734.293.7200

Antiques In Ann Arbor Saline Market Offers Vintage Items

BY SHELBY CLARK PETKUS jewelry, textiles, pottery and more. Those interested in exhibiting can contact Doug Though the temperatures have cooled Supinger at 937-875-0808. enough to put many different outside markets The Saline/Ann Arbor Antiques Market to rest, Ann Arbor will get a special one this has been bringing unique and vintage winter. The Saline Antiques and Vintage shopping to Washtenaw County since 1968. Market brings an ever-changing array of For those 46 years, the market has dedicated upcycled, recycled and repurposed one-of- itself to connecting talent dealers of art and a-kind treasures. (Upcycling involves taking merchandise to the public. used and discarded items or materials and Vendors that have exhibited at the market altering or creating a higher-quality piece over the years include family businesses like that’s more valuable.) Butter Beans Antiques, the Tao of Restoration Billed as “full of cool stuff,” the festival and Hites Heirloom Pumpkins. New and old will also feature other exciting shopping vendors can be seen as the market winds options and great local food from Saline down 2014 with two upcoming dates. Downtown Diner. (The diner’s received rave The Saline Antiques and Vintage Market reviews for the slow-smoked BBQ it often will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on brings to the event.) Sunday, Nov. 16 and again on Dec. 7. The Scattered across the Saline fairgrounds market will be held at the Washtenaw Farm with exhibitors showing their wares outside Council Grounds, 5055 Ann Arbor/Saline or in buildings or tents, the market features Road, Ann Arbor. The event costs $6; child antiques and high-quality and affordable admission and parking are both free. Leashed merchandise in the following genres: vintage, pets are welcome. shabby, country, formal, mid-century, For more information, email mission, cowboy, upcycled and designer. [email protected] or visit The interesting items in these styles include www.annarborantiquesmarket.com.

22 BTL | Nov. 6, 2014 www.PrideSource.com Chestnut, Wyandotte. Jan. 7 - Nov. 25. 734-720-0671. Downriverarts.org Flint Institute of Arts "Labyrinth" Knock down pins for puppies this weekend with the 25th The circuitous life of a miniaturist. Flint Annual Tail Wagger’s Bowl! The BTL-sponsored bowling event Institute of Arts, 1120 E. Kearsley St., Flint. Nov. 1 - Jan. 4. 810-234-1695. will help raise funds to stock the “Pantry 4 Paws” at Livonia’s Flintarts.org animal rescue and wellness center, Tail Waggers 1990. The Flint Institute of Arts "The Art of Video pantry allows the organization to keep providing services, like Games". Flint Institute of Arts, 1120 E. low-cost spaying and neutering, to pets and owners in need. Kearsley St., Flint. Oct. 25 - Jan. 18. 810-234-1695. Flintarts.org Registration includes three games of bowling, shoe rental, James Pearson Duffy Department of commemorative gift and lunch or dinner. Bowling matches Art and Art History "Menagerie, or Artwork Not About Love". Elaine L. Jacob are staggered, beginning at 1 p.m. The following rounds Gallery, 480 W. Hancock, Detroit. Oct. 24 begin at 4:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. - Dec. 12. 313-577-2423. Wayne.edu Janice Charach Gallery " Pictures of The 25th Annual Tail Wagger’s Bowl will take place on Resistance: The Wartime Photographs Saturday, Nov. 8 at Woodland Lanes, 33775 Plymouth Road, Livonia. Registration for the event is of Jewish Partisan Faye Schulman" This exhibition presents one partisan's $15-25. For more information, visit www.tailwaggers1990.org. wartime story. Joining the partisans was Faye Schulman's path to survival and her chance to avenge the deaths of her Rapture, Blister, Burn $15-20. Matrix gocomedy.net family members. Jewish Community Theatre Company, 2730 Bagley, Detroit. ® Center of Metro Detroit, 6600 W. Maple Happenings Nov. 14 - Dec. 7. 313-967-0999. Tomfoolery $10-20. The Penny Seats Road, West Bloomfield Township. Oct. 19 Continued from p. 20 matrixtheatre.org Theatre Company at Conor O’Neill’s Irish Pub and Restaurant, 318 S. Main St., - Dec. 14. 248-661-1000. Jccdet.org Stupid Fucking Bird $10-20. The Ann Arbor. Through Nov. 9. 734-926- Michigan State University Museum detroitreptheatre.com Ringwald Theatre, 22742 Woodward 5346. pennyseats.org "Michigan and the Civil War" Exhibit Ave., Ferndale. Nov. 14 - Dec. 8. 248- ComedySportz Michigan Actors Studio, highlights Michigan connections in the 545-5545. theringwald.com Turtle Island $5-10. PuppetART at 648 E. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 877- Detroit Puppet Theater, 25 E. Grand River Civil War. Michigan State University 636-3320. comedysportzdetroit.com Swingtime $43-59. Macomb Center Ave., Detroit. Through Nov. 30. 313-961- Museum, 409 W. Circle Dr., East Lansing. Aug. 4 - Dec. 31. 517-355-7474. Dinosaurus $8 adult, $5 child. Henry for the Performing Arts, 44575 Garfield 7777. puppetart.org museum.msu.edu Ford College’s Virtual Theatricality Road, Clinton Township. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 8. 586-286-2222. macombcenter.com White People $15. Puzzle Piece Lab at Adray Auditorium, Henry Ford Theatre at The Abreact Performance MOCAD "DEPE Space Residency" Community College, 5101 Evergreen The Dogman Prophecies $10. Planet Space, 1301 W. Lafayette #113, Detroit. Design Inquiry. Museum of Road, Dearborn. Through Nov. 23. 313- Ant Theatre, 2357 Caniff, Hamtramck. Through Nov. 9. puzzlestage.org Contemporary Art Detroit, 4454 845-6478. theatre.hfcc.edu Through Nov. 8. 313-365-4948. Woodward Ave., Detroit. Oct. 1 - Jan. 4. 313-832-6622. Mocadetroit.org Enter Laughing $41-48. The Jewish Planetant.com Ensemble Theatre Company at Aaron The Fresh Beat Band’s Greatest MOCAD "The People's Biennial" It DeRoy Theatre on the campus of the Hits Live $35-59.50. Fox Theatre, ART 'N' AROUND examines the work of artists and other Jewish Community Center, 6600 W. creative individuals, who operate outside 2211 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Cranbrook Art Museum "Cranbrook Maple Road., West Bloomfield. Through the conventional art world. Museum 4:30 p.m. Nov. 15. 313-471-6611. Goes to the Movies: Films and Their Nov. 16. 248-788-2900. jettheatre.org of Contemporary Art Detroit, 4454 olympiaentertainment.com Objects, 1925-1975". Cranbrook Art Woodward Ave., Detroit. Sep. 12 - Dec. Girls Night: The Musical $38. Museum, 39221 Woodward Ave., The Rainmaker $27-32. Tipping Point 31. 313-832-6622. Mocadetroit.org City Theatre, 2301 Woodward Ave., Theatre, 361 E. Cady St., Northville. Bloomfield Hills. June 21 - Feb. 28. 877- Detroit. Nov. 6 - 9. 313-471-6611. Nov. 13 - Dec. 14. 248-347-0003. 462-7262. Cranbrookart.edu MSU Museum "Turtles in Trouble". olympiaentertainment.com Michigan State University Museum, tippingpointtheatre.com Detroit Institute of Arts "Guest of 409 W. Circle Drive, East Lansing. Oct. Harry the Dirty Dog $10. Flint Honor: Monet's Waterlily Pond, Green The Tiger Who Came to Tea $15. 21 - Nov. 9. 517-355-7474. Museum. Youth Theatre, 1220 E. Kearsley St., Harmony". Detroit Institute of Arts, 2100 Farmers Alley Theatre, 221 Farmers msu.edu Flint. 7 p.m. Nov. 7. 810-237-1530. Alley, Kalamazoo. Through Nov. 9. 269- Woodward Ave., Detroit. Oct. 1 - Jan. 4. flintyouththeatre.org 343-2727. farmersalleytheatre.com 313-833-7900. Dia.org The Scarab Club "Annual Photography Exhibition". The Scarab Club, 217 Improv Mondays $5 at the door. Planet Downriver Council for the Arts Thursdays at Go Comedy! Go Farnsworth, Detroit. Oct. 16 - Nov. 22. Ant Theatre, 2357 Caniff, Hamtramck. "Adult Oil & Acrylics Class" Tickets: Comedy! Improv Theater, 261 E. Nine 313-831-1250. Scarabclub.org 313-365-4948. planetant.com Mile Rd., Ferndale. 248-327-0575. $10. Downriver Council for the Arts, 81 Jake’s Women $18-20 in advance; $2 extra at the door. Two Muses Theatre at Barnes and Noble Booksellers, 6800 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield. Nov. 14 - Dec. 7. 248-850-9919. twomusestheatre.org Detroit’s Bonstelle Theatre continues to soar with a high- Madame Butterfly $25-128. Michigan flying production of the beloved tale, “Peter Pan” by J.M. Opera Theatre at Detroit Opera House, Barrie, adapted by Janet Allard. Playing Nov. 14-23, join the 1526 Broadway St., Detroit. Nov. 15 - 23. 313-237-SING. michiganopera.org students of Wayne State University as they grab some pixie Motown the Musical $39-95. Fisher dust from Tinker Bell and take to the sky with help from Hall Theatre, 3011 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit. and Associates, one of the stage industry leaders in flying Through Nov. 16. 313-872-1000. broadwayindetroit.com effects, and race toward Neverland. Nunsense Jamboree $8-15. Thunder This magical story has stretched over a century and continues to delight all ages with defying feats, Bay Theatre, 400 N. Second Avenue, mythical creatures, fantastic swordsmanship, fierce pirates, legendary battles and, most of all, Alpena. Through Nov. 16. 989-354- 2267. thunderbaytheatre.com high-flying tricks with the help of a little pixie dust. Fly with Peter Pan, battle Captain Hook, and meet Once $30+. Broadway Grand Rapids at Wendy and the notorious crocodile who’s always creating mischief. DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NE, Grand Rapids. Nov. 4 - 9. 1-800-745- Tickets are $15-$20, with $10 student rush tickets available on the day of the performance. Tickets 3000. broadwaygrandrapids.com are available by calling 313-577-2960.

SHOP LGBT

www.PrideSource.com Nov. 6, 2014 | BTL 23 13

10 Cool Cities 6 3 18 11 17 Ann Arbor 9 YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD • YOUR MARKET 16 4 Pinpoint your ad dollars where 14 8 20 7 they will do the most good . . . 1 21 15 5 Advertise in the next Cool Cities 22 TO PLACE AN AD CALL 734.293.7200 12 2

19 Abracadabra Jewelry & Gem Gallery..... 1 Esquire Interiors...... * Men’s Yoga...... 13 Spectrum Center...... 19 Anderson, PLLC, Mary K...... 2 First Unitarian Church of Ann Arbor.....* Merkel Carpet One...... * Three Chairs Co...... 20 Ann Arbor Animal Hospital...... 12 Frick, LMSW, BCD, CBT, Julie...... * Mitchell Gold & Bob Williams...... 14 Tios Mexican Cafe...... 21 Ann Arbor Civic Theatre...... 3 Gail van Langen Ph.d...... 9 Necto...... 15 Top of the Lamp...... * Ann Arbor Saline Family Chiro...... * Greene, LMSW, ACSW, Marge...... 10 Orion Automotive Services Inc...... * Trillium Real Estate...... 6 Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra...... 4 Groom N Go ...... * People’s Food Coop...... 16 Two Men And A Truck...... * The Ark...... 5 Hillers...... * Performance Network...... 17 UMHS Comprehensive /aut/ Bar...... 6 HIV/AIDS Resource Center (Harc)...... * Peterson, PLLC, Lisa J...... 18 Gender Services Program...... * Bassett & Associates...... * Humane Society of Huron Valley...... * PFLAG Ann Arbor...... * University Musical Society...... 22 Common Language...... 6 Iglesia Martell Law...... 11 Polo Fields Golf...... * * Not shown on map Dependable Collision Center...... * Jim Toy Resource Center...... 6 Rock Shoppe...... * D’orio, Jd, Plc, Lynn B...... 7 Lewis Jewelers...... 12 Rosenberg, David ...... 12 Downtown Home & Garden...... 8 Lord of Light Lutheran Church...... * Sh\aut\ Cabaret and Gallery...... 6

24 BTL | Nov. 6, 2014 www.PrideSource.com Ann Arbor Art Fair Producers Host Holiday Art Fair Nov. 15-16 There’s a new and exciting option on the holiday gift-giving horizon this season when the Guild of Artists and Artisans, the producers of the Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair, introduce the new Holiday Art Fair Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 15 and 16, at the Eastern Michigan Convocation Center in Ypsilanti. The holiday show features 100 jury-selected artists offering their original artwork in jewelry, glass, ceramics, wood, painting, photography, mixed media, fiber and more. “We are delighted to be able to be part of the thriving art scene in Ypsilanti and hope our art fair becomes a not-to-be-missed annual event enjoyed by the community,” says Max Clayton, The Guild’s executive director. “The Eastern Michigan University Convocation Center is a beautiful setting for the fair, and being on the campus of EMU has given us the opportunity to showcase students in EMU’s department of art. It is our distinct pleasure to host the EMU Student Art Gallery as part of this event and to provide fairgoers the cave” – located in the sky box suite, per ticket). opportunity to purchase unique works where gentlemen can relax, watch TV The show will be open from 10 of art from our jury-selected artists – and enjoy items from the concession a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 15 making it a holiday to remember.” stand. A chance for a brief break as and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. The Holiday Art Fair will also their significant others shop the fair, the 16. Admission is $5; children, 12 and feature a children’s gift-making station. concession stand will be open during younger, are free. Parking is free. The Youngsters will have the opportunity all hours of the fair and will offer food, Eastern Michigan Convocation Center to make a “snow globe” and decorate coffee, beer and wine. is located at 799 N. Hewitt Road in a gift bag – creating their own unique Thanks to sponsor Reinhart Realtors, Ypsilanti with easy access from US 23. work of art, a memorable gift for a fairgoers can receive a $2 discount on For more information about favorite family member or best friend. the entrance fee when they bring along the Holiday Art Fair, visit There will also be a men’s only a new or gently used coat that will be www.HolidayArtFair.com or call 734- lounge – affectionately called the “man donated to charity (one donated coat 662-3382.

www.PrideSource.com Nov. 6, 2014 | BTL 25 Pacific” 8 Zimbabwe neighbor Q Puzzle 19 Protest in 1-Across 9 Catty quality 21 Snatch 10 V-J Day ended it 22 Bentley of “American Beauty” 11 Catch some rays at South Beach Politics Makes Strange Bedfellows 23 Circle segment 12 Fork over, with “up” 26 “Ed Wood” role 18 Mr. Williams, as Doubtfire 29 Bit of hope 20 Come out on the beach 32 Composer Ned 23 Leave your lover in bed 35 Tongue, to a French teacher 24 Caesar or Antony 38 Actress in 1-Across 25 Belief summary 40 Like a masochist’s partner 27 De Wolfe of design 41 New Orleans footballer 28 Gate fastener 42 Rocker Brian 29 One to ten, e.g. 43 Classic soft drink 30 “The ___ and the Ecstasy” 45 Duvall played her in “Popeye” 31 Streisand’s cross-dressing movie 46 Vintage wheels 33 Biblical Samuel’s mentor 48 Way across the Pacific 34 OR workers 51 Unlikely bedfellows in 1-Across 36 Director Van Sant 57 Jolie of “The Bone Collector” 37 Acapulco article 58 Big wheels at sea 39 When perdition freezes over 61 Winter product prefix, in ads 44 “That’s ___ quit!” 62 Famous cookie maker 46 Charlotte of “Facts of Life” 63 Shoot off some hot stuff 47 Big splash 64 Ship, to seamen 49 Washed-out 65 Where Boy Scouts sleep together 50 “SNL”’s Cheri 66 Actor Bill of 1-Across 51 Slang for vagina 52 Hathaway of “Brokeback Mountain” Down 53 “Son of Frankenstein” character 1 Mom-and-pop org. 54 Privy to outs? 2 Wood of the Stones 55 Bottomless Across 13 “ ___ Eclipse” 3 Bit from Ted Casablanca 56 Bad penny 1 Matthew Warchus film about 14 Goal for Sheryl Swoopes 4 Spacey in “Beyond the Sea” 59 Speed limit letters strange bedfellows 15 Like a pale face 5 Writer Dykewomon 60 Place for porking? 6 Weeps with abandon 16 “It’s the end of ___” 6 Restaurateur Toots 10 Org. of guys who are knock- 17 She’s cock-eyed in “South 7 Basketball to Eliza Doolittle? Solution on pg. 21 Classifieds 301 EMPLOYMENT - 428 PROF. SERVICES - Say Hello To GENERAL MASSAGE Sakura! MUST LOVE DOGS !! GROUP MASSAGE Happy Hounds Dog Day Care - For Gay and Bisexual Men. Learn is now hiring part-time hourly dog some massage techniques and lovers. Please call or stop in to fill meet others in a safe and caring out application. environment. Tuesdays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. Thursdays at 2 p.m. $10 734-459-DOGS Meet Sakura! This 2-year-old Pit per session. 209 West Kingsley in Bull mix is a lovely young lady. 673 South Main St. downtown Ann Arbor. (734) 662- Plymouth, MI 48170 6282 or email [email protected]. She’s very affectionate and http://trymassage.com has some really nice manners! The adoption fee includes sterilization, age-appropriate vaccinations, the MHS Adoption Guarantee and much more. For more information, visit or call the MHS Detroit Center for Animal Care at (313) 872-3400 and provide the pet ID number,

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