ayes - W an h ill & se Gr ac e Vol. 23 • September 2, 2010 - September 15, 2010 • www.therainbowtimesnews.com S free! ta r h a s

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H C R• Your LGBTQainbow News in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, T Connecticutimes & Vermont • hartford’s xl center melissa

P h oto: c ourtesy x l enter ferrick Performance at Team USA vies for title p18 Queer Carnevale to benefit LGBT Coalition Medium john holland at Natural Living Expo p10 P h oto: ja c k fo l ey

queen latifah Saves the Church p18 P h oto: jnew l ine c inema

DA Candidates Sullivan & Cahillane interviewed p3&4

MassEquality names new Executive Director p11  • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com TRT reflections: Where we were, where Supporting all our businesses, both big and small we are, and what’s to come in the future By: Jenn Tracz*/CABO’s Executive Director know anyone. Perhaps you ’ve spent the past few months talking about are trying to build your re- By: Gricel M. Ocasio*/TRT Publisher Film CT, Boston Pride, Noho Pride, CT Pride, the corporate support and partnerships that sume to land that job you e, at The Rainbow Times, WGBY, PrideFest RI, the Women’s Fund of ICABO has. By now you’ve heard me men- are looking for. We have have proudly been active Western MA, National gay & Lesbian Cham- tion Aetna, Foxwoods, Murtha Cullina, The volunteer opportunities Wand giving members of ber of Commerce, Human Rights Campaign, Rainbow Times and many of our other great within our organization, the communities that we so proudly Lambda Legal, PFLAG, GLAAD, Pride Pro- corporate partners. But, today I want to get you but are also the connectors serve. Through collaborations and mos, New Bedford Pride, Worcester Pride, and thinking about all of the small and medium- to many other great non- sponsorships, we have given our sup- many, many more. sized businesses throughout the state that help profits or small businesses port to hundreds of organizations in Our work does not end with these organiza- make our organization the success that it is. who may be looking for MA, RI, CT and VT. We are proud of tions because we continue to strive to do more If you do business locally, you should find interns. Don’t hesitate our past and current sponsorships and with the groups that surround us that we still out if they are a member of CABO. If they to contact me to find out partnerships. In giving; we receive have not been involved with. We look forward aren’t, it is possible that we have a similar more about any of these back from our readers, advertisers and to such collaborations with you. In good faith business in our organization that you can do Jenn Tracz great opportunities. loyal supporters. These mutual ges- we look at the past and our accomplishments business with knowing that they support the CABO holds regular tures embody what our community and at the future and what is to come. We thank monthly events in North Haven and West Publisher LGBT community. You should make it a habit means to us and what TRT means to the LGBTQ community and the many volun- to consult CABO as your number one resource Hartford, and hosts open houses throughout our community. In four years, we are teers that we have in all of our areas of cover- of who to do business with in Connecticut and the state. For more details on CABO events proud to have been a part of events age. Volunteers are the back bone of all orga- surrounding areas. in your area, visit www.TheCABO.org If you that we had never dreamed of the first nizations and without them we could not do the We have businesses representing all indus- have any particular questions or comments, I few months of publishing TRT. And, work that we do and reach as many people as tries within our membership. If you are look- am always available via e-mail and would be incredibly, we have been asked to par- we do. Nicole and I, TRT co-owners and editor ing for an attorney, eye doctor, or dentist, we happy to talk with you. Send me an e-mail to- ticipate, year after year. We could not and publisher, respectively, thank you profuse- have them all at our finger tips to share with day at [email protected]. be more touched by these gestures of ly for your thoughts, comments, friendships, you. We also have restaurant members and en- our supporters and community orga- business relationships, respect of our product courage you to dine at them whenever possible *In her role as Executive Director, Jenn nizations. The press’ responsibility is and loyalty. We hope that we have given you and corporate partners we encourage you to do is responsible for maintaining and growing not one to only objectively inform, but fairness in our coverage and, if we have not, business with as well. membership, developing strategic business also one of public responsibility. By please let us know too, as you have in the past. Perhaps you are a student and reading this, partnerships and overseeing the day-to-day taking the work that we do seriously, The new press has a larger responsibility than thinking you don’t need to be involved with operations of the organization. In addition to we give back. By doing so, we also that of informing. It carries a legacy of honor being CABO’s executive director, she also is a

From the the From a business organization; there are many op- receive gratitude and daily rewards and passion for what it does, and it does so with portunities for you. Many of our businesses small business owner specializing in market- from those who have been loyal to us since our justice. Everyone will always encounter diffi- are looking to hire new talent and ask us if we ing and design services. inception. culties along the road, but it is how we respond Past organizations that we have worked with, to them that can make us or break us. In that sponsored, or have been involved with in similar sense, we have learned from many of you, in- capacities are: the AIDS Foundation of Western dividually and collectively. There is no better therainbowtimesnews.com Massachusetts, Shelter Sunday, the Womyn’s time than the present to say thank you, again! Festival of Southern VT, the Hartford Gay & We look forward to more long-lasting rela- Lesbian Health Collective, the Northampton tionships with those of you that have already Letters to the Editor The Rainbow Times Independent Film Festival, Marriage Equality become our friends and whose friendships we 351 Pleasant St., #322 Rhode Island (MERI), OutforReel!, GLAD, treasure, and with those of you whom we have Dear Editor, Northampton, MA 01060 MassEquality, the LGBT Coalition of Western yet to meet. We look forward to working with I was about to send you a private message on www.therainbowtimesnews.com MA, Planned Parenthood, Tapestry, Paradise you too. FB, Ericka, but since you spoke so openly and Best in Pride, braved your opinions to the public eye, i decid- [email protected] City Arts Festival, Baystate Health System’s [email protected] Rays of Hope Breast Cancer Walk, Stand Up to ed it would be cowardly not to follow suit. To Cancer, NETU, Cooley Dickinson, Miss Trans Gricel M. Ocasio that effect, I am doing it through TRT. We DO Phone: 413.282.8881, 617.444.9618 New England Pageant, Massachusetts Trans- disagree on the “worth” of having this pageant or Fax: 206.203.0436 gender Political Coalition (MTPC), UMass *Gricel M. Ocasio is the co-founder, co-own- at all. I, a long-time feminist, and an attendee Fine Arts Center, UMass Stonewall Center, er and Publisher of The Rainbow Times. She is of last year’s first MTNE (Northampton) “cel- Publisher Columnists Every Women’s Center, Greater Northampton a graduate of Temple University and has been ebration” was delighted to find it to be a very Gricel M. Ocasio Lorelei Erisis Chamber of Commerce, Connecticut Alliance in the journalism and publishing field for almost happy experience for me, not only because my Editor-In-Chief Deja N. Greenlaw Paul P. Jesep for Business Opportunity (CABO), Network 20 years. You can reach her at: publisher@ daughter, Lorelei, was “crowned,” because for Nicole Lashomb La Red, AIDS Project of Rhode Island, Out- therainbowtimesnews.com. such purpose that is beside the point (although Jason Lydon I am very proud of the way she has conducted Assistant Editor FIFI Nigel herself this past year and set a precedent for de- Natalia Muñoz Susan Ryan-Vollmar Voices of LGBT can heard on podcasts voted activism for future winners). The “spirit” Sales Manager J.M. Sorrell at the first pageant was nothing if not hopeful, Bill Berggren Jenn Tracz By: Susan Ryan-Vollmar*/ (Beacon Press, May 2011), issued his warn- enthusiastic and entirely bonding for all of the Reporters ing, there were plenty of national magazines in Sales Associates TRT Columnist community attending. The contestants, very Joe Siegel resent company circulation focusing on queer lives, in addition obviously, enjoyed an enormous amount of ca- Chris Gilmore to the four media giants (Out, The Advocate, Christine Nico notwithstanding, maraderie and real friendship! It was truly heart- Liz Johnson Tynan Power much has been PlanetOut, and Gay.com) that were merging: warming and a spectacular example of how a P Webmaster Lead Designer made about the death of Genre, Girlfriends, Instinct, Curve, Gay Par- pageant CAN work “for the whole” in a very the LGBT press. When ent Magazine, and many, many more. Today, NON-divisive manner. Jarred Johnson Jim Curran we still have The Advocate and a version of you look at the national That said, Ericka, yes, now the pageant, in The Rainbow Times is published biweekly by landscape, it’s hard to Out that would, unfortunately, be unrecogniz- its second year, is NOT perfect. I have stood The Rainbow Times, LLC. TRT is affiliated with the disagree with the idea able to its brilliant co-founding editor, the late back and just watched, tossing my (private) two National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, that the LGBT press is Sarah Pettit. The magazines are largely gone, pennies in when I thought my voice seemed an CABO - The Connecticut Alliance for Business Susan Ryan-Vollmar a shadow of its former though they have been replaced by blogs such appropriate contribution (until just recently, I Opportunity, and QSyndicate. The articles written self, if that. as Pam’s House Blend, The Bilerico Project, admit, when I DID, after much soul-searching, by the writers, columnists, and correspondents express Nine years ago, Michael Bronski, in a piece Towle Road, Queerty, Mombian, and Joe. decide to publicly “endorse” my “choice.” I did their opinion, and do not represent the endorsement [http://bit.ly/bOhy6x] for the Boston Phoe- My.God, to name a few. But with the occa- NOT do that “lightly” at all! or opinion of The Rainbow Times, LLC or its owners. sional exception, these outlets are largely re- To write letters to the editor, please send your letters, nix, cautioned against the consequences of a Last year’s pageant was not perfect either, but, with your name, address and phone number to: The proposed merger of the major players in the positories of opinion or news aggregators. you know something, it worked! It was the gen- Rainbow Times (address shown above), or e-mail national queer media landscape: “Gay people Enter Same Sex Sunday. The weekly pod- esis of something new and exciting and, with all any comment/s to the editor at: editor@therain- may be ‘everywhere,’ as the old slogan goes, cast is a mix of interviews and reporting by its and any problems or complications leading up bowtimesnews.com. All submissions will be edited but their editorial voice is beginning to ema- co-hosts Phil Reese, and Joe Mirabella. Both to the “night,” the spirit present in that hall on according to space constraints. The Rainbow Times, nate from a single place. And critics worry that are regular contributors to The Bilerico Project that night was worth everything! LLC reserves the right not to print any or all content, this voice will end up watered down, self-cen- and neither, interestingly, has a formal back- This is all still very new. I, who had or advertisements for any reason at all. TRT is not sored, and preoccupied with celebrity fluff at ground in journalism. Mirabella is a social thought for a time, that I really, in all con- responsible for advertising content. To receive The marketing and online media consultant who ran Rainbow Times at your home via regular mail, or the expense of serious journalism.” science, just had to “stand back” from through electronic delivery, please visit our website. When Bronski, a lecturer in gender studies the social networking efforts of Washington’s MTNE because there arose problems along The whole content and graphics (photos, etc.) are the at Dartmouth College and author of the forth- See Voices on page 12 sole property of The Rainbow Times, LLC and they coming An LGBT History of the United States See Letters on page 13 cannot be reproduced at all without TRT’s consent. www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 •  Sullivan: Outspoken Gay rights’ advocate vows to “Do the Right Thing” as DA Elect By: Christine Nico/TRT Reporter

d Northampton, MA—Recently, The Rainbow Times interviewed Dave Sullivan, Democratic District Attorney

an Candidate for the Northwestern Dis- trict. Sullivan strong ties to underrepre- sented communities come from a hum- ble family origin unified by a strong gl work ethic. That strong work ethic, his

n website states, was instilled in him by his parents, the late Anne and James A. E Sullivan, who taught Dave to work to pay for 50 percent of his high school and college tuition bills. Dave’s strong background, focused on responsibility and commitment, ew ew earned him a law degree from North-

N eastern University School of Law. Sul- livan triumphed in the bid for the Reg- ister of Hampshire County Probate & Family Court twice. His leadership on many innovative justice initiatives, and development of extensive community collaborations, helped Hampshire Pro- bate & Family Court earn the reputa- Photo: Sullivan for District Attorney Campaign tion as one of the best family courts in Dave Sullivan Massachusetts. Prior to his work with as civil rights, white collar crimes, and con- the Hampshire County Probate & Fam- estern estern sumer protection will be vigorously addressed ily Court, he was a law partner with his and a comprehensive program of crime preven- wife Catherine M. Hancock in their tion will be initiated. I will be implementing a W Easthampton law office of Sullivan & Community Prosecution program where our Hancock. His professional goal is now focused Assistant District Attorneys and staff forge ties on winning the bid in our communities in the Democratic “I especially intend to reach out and neighborhoods primary election for to be better posi- Northwestern Dis- to groups who have traditionally tioned to identify trict Attorney. and respond quickly Through this inter- and historically been subjected to to emerging crime view, TRT inquired discrimination, prejudice, neglect problems, prevent about many of the crime and make our same questions that and official avoidance. This will, of communities safer. our community mem- course, include the LGBT community. Our prosecutors will bers may share, such be working in both as the leader’s prom- The District Attorney is the people’s our courtrooms and ises to change the sta- lawyer and I intend to represent all communities. tus quo, to focus on TRT: Given the “areas long neglect- my clients vigorously, zealously, relatively large ed” and to ensure that proudly and passionately.” LGBT community that all underrepre- in the region, and sented groups are vis- the growing communities of color, how would ible in the DA’s Civil Rights Advisory Board. the DA’s office handle hate crimes and be an advocate for these communities? The Rainbow Times: What specific changes DS: The long dormant DA’s Civil Rights Ad- can we expect from the DA’s office if you are visory Board will be revived and invigorated elected? with new appointees who represent all minori- Dave Sullivan: From day one, my office ty groups in our community. A public outreach will be more accessible and accountable to and education initiative will alert the victims citizens and better organized, managed and administered. Areas long neglected, such See Sullivan on page 19  • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Mike Cahillane: A Prosecutor, not a Politician; sets sights on DA’s candidacy in MA Northwestern District By: Christine Nico/TRT Reporter tion from all members of our community, of environmental protection and decrease the po- Northampton, MA—The Rainbow all races, sexual orientation and economic liticization of government. Times recently interviewed Michael Cahillane, levels. I want to include all of our citizens. TRT: In this economic climate, crime is in an Democratic District Attorney Candidate for Lastly, I will to encourage my staff to par- upswing. How would you control it? the Northwestern District. Cahillane, a strong ticipate in mentoring projects with the youth MC: Currently, one of the biggest problems criminal prosecutor for over 9 years, was born in our communities; activities could include for law enforcement agencies and district at- and raised in Northampton. His dedication to sports clinics and discussion groups sponsored torneys’ offices is accomplishing more with public service, according to his website, is by my office. less. The budget cuts have gone into the bone, highlighted especially by his peers and ex- TRT: Given the relatively large LGBT com- after repeated rounds of cuts. Thus, it will be posed when they voted him the 2010 William munity in the region, and the growing com- important to strengthen existing collaborations C. O’Malley Prosecutor of the Year. munities of color, how would the DA’s office and rely on those collaborations because this Cahillane is clear that his experi- approach maximizes resources and ence is what the DA’s office needs. A minimizes duplication of services. graduate of Suffolk University Law “I have stated the simple truth, my signature TRT: What is your position regard- School, the candidate is prompt to was certainly not a vote against same- ing people who use drugs as opposed speak about his track record of crimi- to people who sell drugs? nal prosecutions and his dedication to sex marriage nor was it an endorsement MC: Generally, I believe we need to public service. emphasize the rehabilitation goal of Through this interview, TRT in- of the petition’s language, but in my view sentencing when examining a case in- quired about many of the same ques- served only to put the issue on the ballot volving straight possession, and a per- tions that our community members son with a minor record free of crimes may share about Cahillane’s commit- and allow the democratic process to work.” of violence. The reality is that many ment to the LGBT community, same- drug rehabilitation programs have sex marriage, and the candidate’s experience handle hate crimes and be an advocate for been cut. Therefore, in this time of limited re- within our community as a whole. these communities? sources, it is critical to work with the probation Photo: Campaign to Elect Michael Cahillane MC: The Northwestern District Attorney’s department to identify viable drug rehabilita- Mike Cahillane Office has prosecuted hate crimes for the past tion programs and to craft special conditions The Rainbow Times: What specific changes dealer as profit drives their criminal conduct can we expect from the DA’s office if you are twenty years. As DA, I will work vigorously of probation that will afford a defendant the to create an environment of zero tolerance for best opportunity to succeed. not addiction. elected? TRT: What national initiatives do you support? Michael Cahillane: First, I will identify our civil rights violations within our jurisdiction. Drug dealers are predators; they prey upon My office will sponsor trainings with law en- those who are addicted and they degrade and MC: As a trained cybercrime prosecutor, I neighborhoods that are experiencing a high support the National Center for Missing and volume of arrests and I will meet with citizen forcement officials and office staff, which will endanger the community through their asso- include speakers drawn from the community. ciation with gangs and their use of violence as Exploited Children (www.missingkids.com). groups from those areas to hear firsthand, their The mandate of the center is to, “find missing observations and concerns. Secondly, I will TRT: Who did you vote for in the 2008 presi- a way of conducting business. Their punish- dential election and why? ment should be determined by the nature of children, reduce the incidence of child sexual form Community Advisory Boards across the exploitation and prevent child victimization.” Northwestern District. The purpose of these MC: I voted for Barack Obama, because I be- their offense and their prior record of convic- lieved that he was the right leader at the right tions, including how much jail time they have The center also brings together and assists Boards will be to advise me as to community state, local and federal agencies to fight the issues relating to the Office of the District At- time who would improve international rela- done previously. In my experience, rehabilita- torney. I will strive to include full representa- tions, civil rights, labor relations, education, tion is of less value for the mid to high-level See Cahillane on page 6

Come help plan our 30TH ANNIVERSARY PARADE & RALLY!

COMMUNITY KICK OFF MEETING SEPTEMBER 28TH • 6PM MEDIA EDUCATION FOUNDATIONS COMMUNITY ROOM — (behind Woodstar Cafe) — 60 MASONIC STREET • NORTHAMPTON • MA EVERYONE WELCOME! www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 •   • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Cahillane from page 4 to help bring justice for a family who had integrity, compassion and fundamental fair- but in my view served only to put the issue on scourge of child pornography. One of the most lost a mother, a grandmother, a loved one to ness are values at the core of my being and the ballot and allow the democratic process to important resources includes the identification violence. those values inform my personal and profes- work. I believed that a majority of Massachu- of children displayed in photographs and/or TRT: What is your position on police depart- sional decisions. setts’ citizens would support same-sex mar- videos. This resource has been of tremendous ment members’ public endorsement of politi- TRT: Please add any comments about your riage and statistics later supported that belief. assistance to the office of the district attorney cal candidates? thoughts and plans to work for the LGBT com- I absolutely support the right of gay people to in order to successfully prosecute those who MC: Traditionally, candidates are endorsed munity, to safeguard same-sex marriage, and marry. victimize children. in the course of a political campaign. The vot- to work for trans rights in the commonwealth. For those people who want to use this as a lit- TRT: What is one of your proudest moments ers will determine the value of those endorse- MC: As DA, I will work with our law enforce- mus test for the office of DA, I may not ever be as a lawyer? ments. The support and endorsements I have ment partners and the court system to ensure able to convince them. I have a public record MC: It was working to secure a conviction of received are of great value to voters. These strict enforcement of our civil rights laws. It as a prosecutor and that record is clear on any a defendant who brutally murdered an 83-year officers are sworn to protect and serve the is critical to have LGBT representation on the number of cases involving civil rights statutes. woman inside of her own home, then set her members of their communities and by giving community advisory boards. I will collaborate I am fully committed to affording equal ac- home on fire to conceal the crime. Nothing me their support they are sending the message with community partners to create trainings cess to our criminal justice system and making could be done to bring back Rose Martows- that they trust that I will do the same in my role around human/civil rights to be presented to sure that the civil rights of LGBT citizens are ki, however, after the verdict was returned, as prosecutor. various groups within our communities such fully protected. I abhor crime that is directed through the tears and the hugs with her fam- TRT: What’s your motto? as school staff and students and law enforce- toward a particular class of people whether it ily, I knew that I had done everything I could MC: A prosecutor not a politician. Honesty, ment personnel. I will work to strengthen and is their sexual orientation, gender, race, age, or expand our civil rights laws. disability. As my public record reflects, I have TRT: In the LGBT community, your remarks fought for the civil rights of the LGBT com- regarding taking back your vote against gay munity and I will continue to fight every bit as marriage haven’t gained traction. Why do you hard as DA. think you haven’t persuaded the community The Democratic primary is September 14. that your change of heart is sincere? MC: I am extremely proud to have many Michael is married to Christine (Capers) members of the LGBT community supporting Cahillane and lives in Northampton with their my campaign because they know me and they two rescued Greyhounds, Blue and Gracie. know my work as a prosecutor. I have stated For more information about Mike Cahillane’s the simple truth, my signature was certainly campaign messages, endorsements, his stance not a vote against same-sex marriage nor was on relevant issues, and/or to volunteer, visit: it an endorsement of the petition’s language, http://cahillaneforda.com/.

blog • personals • calendar • chat • resources breaking news • advertise • & more ... find it all @ therainbowtimesnews.com www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 •  USA Basketball Women’s National Team host final games prior toFI BA World Championship Hartford, CT—In its final domestic tune- (Seattle Storm), Swin Cash (Seattle Storm), up prior to the 2010 FIBA World Champion- Tamika Catchings (Indiana Fever), Tina ship, the USA Basketball Women’s National Charles (Connecticut Sun), Shameka Christon Team will host Australia and Spain in a pair of (), Candice Dupree (Phoenix Mer- exhibition contests at the XL Center in Hart- cury), (Chicago Sky), Lindsey ford, Conn., on Sept. 10 and 12. The U.S. will Harding (Washington Mystics), Asjha Jones take on defending world champion Australia (Connecticut Sun), Kara Lawson (Connecticut on Sept. 10 at 7:30 p.m. and Spain, the No. Sun), Angel McCoughtry (Atlanta Dream), 5-ranked women’s pro- Renee Montgomery gram in the world, on (Connecticut Sun), Sept. 12 (1:00 p.m.). Maya Moore (Univer- Tickets are on sale now, sity of Connecticut), and are available online (Los at www.ticketmaster. Angeles Sparks), Cap- com, through Ticket- pie Pondexter (New master charge by phone York Liberty), Diana at 1-800-745-3000 and Taurasi (Phoenix Mer- in person at the XL Cen- cury), ter box office. Ticket (Minnesota Lynx) and prices range from $75, Candice Wiggins (Min- $50, $30, $20 and $10 nesota Lynx). respectively, additional The U.S. will look fees may apply. to capture the title at “One of the things the 2010 FIBA World you always want to do Championship that will is to try to play some be held Sept. 23 – Oct. really good competi- 3 in Brno, Karlovy Vary tion leading up to the and Ostrava, Czech Re- (FIBA) World Champi- Photo: courtesy XL Center public, with the gold onship,” said 2009-12 USA Basketball Women’s National Team medal winner earning a USA Basketball Wom- takes on Australia and Spain on September berth to the 2012 Olym- en’s National Team and 10 and 12 at the XL Center in Hartford, CT pic Games. University of Connecti- In the past dozen cut head coach Geno Auriemma. “Usually years, the highly successful USA Basketball those games are held overseas where we don’t Women’s National Team program, ranked No. have a lot of fans. It’s fortunate for us that 1 in the world by FIBA, has posted a 63-1 slate we’re able to get teams of the caliber of Spain in major international competitions, winning and Australia, two of the top five teams in the four consecutive Olympic gold medals (1996, world, to come to Hartford and play exhibition 2000, 2004, 2008), two FIBA World Champi- games. I think people here in the Hartford area, onship gold medals (1998, 2002), one FIBA in Connecticut especially, appreciate women’s World Championship bronze medal (2006) basketball as much, if not more, than any other and one FIBA Americas Championship gold place in the country. I think those two teams medal (2007). will get a great reception and people will get a chance to see what we’re going to be seeing in the Czech Republic (at the World Championship). I’m ex- cited for our team. I’m excited for our fans. I’m excited for the city of Hartford, and I’m really appreciative of the XL Center for working with us to put that together.” Members of the 2009-12 USA Basketball Women’s National Team are (Minnesota Lynx), (Washington Mystics), Sue Bird  • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 •  10 • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Find it all, and then some, at the 4th Annual Natural Living Expo sturbridge, ma—Are you interested in pert chefs. Browse the free sample bars stocked activities are scheduled from 12-3 daily. alternative medicine and holistic health? Then with natural health product samples, coupons This year’s ticketed keynote presenters be sure to visit Sturbridge, MA, September and information, experience a personal healing include Bernie Siegel, MD (internationally 25-26 to attend the 4th annual Natural Living session or intuitive reading, and learn about known author and lecturer, including best- Expo at the Sturbridge Host Hotel and Confer- health and wellness one-on-one and in person, seller “Love, Medicine & Miracles”; www. ence Center. in a way that the Internet just can’t provide. BernieSiegelMD.com), famed psychic medi- The expo is New England’s largest holistic In addition to the exhibit halls, a full 2-day um John Holland (author of “Born Knowing”; event, with two exhibit halls featuring 135 schedule is available online at www.natura- www.johnholland.com), raw and living foods expert Brenda Cobb (www.livingfoodsinsti- exhibits offering alternative health and natu- lexpo.org and includes over 75 free (with expo tute.com), money empowerment coach Linda ral living information, products and services, admission) mind/body/spirit workshops, activi- Marks (www.healingheartpower.com) and in- healing therapies, fair trade and green shop- ties and performances. Experience a Breema tuition expert and motivational speaker Lynn ping, plus a delicious healthy food court. Stop Bodywork mini workshop, join in the outdoor Robinson (www.lynnrobinson.com). Keynote Photo: Courtesy of Kripalu. in next door to the food court at the healthy fireside drum jam Saturday night or attend the tickets can be purchased in advance at www. Join the KDZ Drummers from Kripalu at a cooking demos and learn how to make deli- zero-waste birthday party on Sunday and learn naturalexpo.org. Drum Jam and Fire Circle, free and open to cious, inexpensive, healthy food from our ex- how you can plan one at home yourself. EcoKids The first 100 attendees each day receive a the public, Saturday, Sept 25, 6:30pm-8:00. free LEAP Organics gift bag filled with a fabu- Visit www.naturalexpo.org for details. lous assortment of products. General expo ad- mission is $10 for the weekend. Children under 12 are free. $1 of each paid expo admission is donated to one of these three charities selected by attendees: R.A.T.S (Residents for Alterna- tive Trash Solutions, www.southbridgedump. org), ACAM Midwife Center (www.mayam- idwifery-acam-imlusa.org) and Mass Audu- bon (www.massaudubon.org).

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that track from last night? Photo: jack foley Famed medium John Holland presents “The TRT’s DJ Top 10 Spirit Whisperer: Messages from the Other therainbowtimesnews.com Side,” Saturday, September 25, 2:30-4:30pm. $45. Visit www.naturalexpo.org for tickets. www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 • 11 MassEquality names Kara Suffredini new Executive Director By: Joe Siegel/TRT Reporter Family Equality Council. While there, Suffredini ough). Donoghue is the former mayor of Lowell. ville). DiDomenico won a special election to the Boston, MA—MassEquality, the lead- designed advocacy campaigns around legal and · Josh Cutler, challenger running for the Sixth seat in April. ing state organization for LGBT rights, policy initiatives impacting LGBT families at Plymouth representative district (Pembroke, Endorsements were made on the basis of sev- named Kara Suffredini, Esq. as its new Ex- the local, state, and federal level. She also led Duxbury, Hanson, and Halifax). eral criteria, including the candidate’s support ecutive Director on August 18. Suffredini community-building initiatives focused on local · Mark McGonagle, challenger running for for the Transgender Civil Rights Bill, which was, most recently, the Director of Public service organizations, schools, LGBT groups, the Fourth Suffolk senate seat (South Boston will extend employment, housing, education, Policy and Community Engagement for and online communities. Throughout her career, and Dorchester). McGonagle is a Boston Public credit, and hate crimes protections to transgen- the Family Equality Council (FEC). she has trained hundreds of activists, lawmakers, Health Commission youth worker. der residents of Massachusetts, as well as the Suffredini replaces former Executive and policymakers on grassroots organizing and · Patrick Gerry, challenger running for the Sec- candidate’s support for an Equality Agenda that Director Scott Gortikov, who community building. She has written includes the preservation of marriage equality hundreds of bills promoting LGBT ond Worcester representative district (Ashburn- in Massachusetts and robust public funding for resigned from the organiza- ham, Ashby, Gardner, Royalston, Winchendon). tion in July after serving in the equality and provided technical assis- LGBT programs and services. tance on hundreds more. Last month, Gerry is a Gardner city councilor. position for 15 months. · State Sen. Sal DiDomenico, running for re- “We are thrilled. Kara is a the National LGBT Bar Association For more information about Mass Equality, talented attorney and policy named her one of the “Best LGBT election to the Suffolk, Middlesex, and Essex visit: www.massequality.org.

eastern ma eastern maker and she has extensive Lawyers Under 40.” senate district (Cambridge, Everett, and Somer- experience running statewide advo- “This is an amazing opportu- cacy campaigns,” said Sara Whitman, nity,” said Suffredini. “My goal for chair of the MassEquality Board of MassEquality is simple. I want this Directors. “She is a visionary thinker organization to lay the legal, policy, and a highly regarded LGBT move- community-, and coalition-building ment strategist. We are confident that Photo: mass equality framework to ensure that every les- Kara will bring us to the next level of Kara Suffredini bian, gay, bisexual and transgender LGBT advocacy in Massachusetts.” person in Massachusetts is protected Suffredini, who lives in Somerville with her from cradle to grave — with equal partner, will begin working at MassEquality Sep- rights and opportunities in school, in marriage tember 7. and family life, at work and in retirement.” Suffredini holds a law degree from Boston Meanwhile, the organization’s Political Ac- College Law School and started her legal career tion Committee has endorsed the following as a judicial clerk for the Honorable Joette Katz candidates in the September 14 primary: Karen on the Connecticut Supreme Court. From there Payne, challenger running for the Sixth Suffolk she worked as an associate at Updike, Kelly, and representative district (Dorchester, Hyde Park, Spellacy, P.C. in Connecticut. Jamaica Plain, Mattapan, and Roslindale). Suffredini has spent the past several years · Dan Wolf, challenger running for the Cape working to advance LGBT equality. and Islands state senate seat. Wolf is CEO of In 2004 she joined the National Gay and Les- Cape Air. bian Task Force as its state legislative director, · Eileen Donoghue, challenger running for the where she worked until 2008 when she joined the First Middlesex senate district (Lowell, Westford, Groton, Dunstable, Pepperell, and Tyngsbor- 12 • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Bridgewater murder defendant places Voices from page 2 He puts himself in the category of “jour- Approve Referendum 71 campaign (which nal-activists,” a term coined by Mike Rogers, blame on victim for relationship’s end made history as the first voter-approved do- publisher of PageOneQ and the blogger be- mestic partnership law for same-sex couples hind BlogACTIVE.com, who outed Virginia Local domestic violence programs see link to partner abuse in the United States). Reese is a middle Republican Congressman Ed Schrock in 2004. Schrock had supported an amendment Boston, MA—On August 9th a Brockton work/La Red and other domestic violence school teacher in Illinois who freelances for woman, Eunice Field, 54, pulled up to the programs and comes on the heels of the mur- LGBT publications including Out&About Il- to the United States Constitution that would Brockton police station and confessed to killing der of Annemarie Rintala of Granby, MA in linois magazine. have defined marriage as the union of one her ex-girlfriend’s AA sponsor, Lorraine Wa- March of this year; another suspected LGBTQ In an email interview, Mirabella says, “We man and one woman. chsman, 62, at Wachsman’s Bridgewater home. domestic violence homicide. No charges have both felt that our community needed a show “I think you can have a point of view as a According to Assistant District Attorney Thom- been filed yet in that case. like Same Sex Sunday. As far as we know, journalist as long as you make that point of as Flanagan, Field left “Partner abuse in our we are the first to offer a political round view known. I fully support LGBT equality, a note for her ex-girl- community happens at table that brings together our community’s and I write from that perspective. My audi- friend, Renee Williams, comparable rates and thought of leaders, news makers, and acci- ence knows that coming into the story,” Mi- in the apartment they is just as serious and dental heroes.” rabella said. shared that indicated dangerous as partner Recent shows have included a freewheel- That said, Mirabella’s co-host Reese warns Wachsman got what she had coming to her for abuse in non-LGBTQ communities,” says ing exchange between Mirabella and Wash- in his most recent column for The Bilerico coming between her and her ex-girlfriend, and Kaitlin Nichols, the Director of Organizing ington Congressman Jim McDermott on Project that we need to “have a serious con- “for taking away the love of her life”. and Education at The Network/La Red, “We the chances of passing the Employment versation” about the state of LGBT media: “This is a terrible tragedy and a painful re- know that being involved with a domestic Non-Discrimination Act and repealing the “The Internet is great and all, trust me. How- minder that partner abuse not only affects violence program is a protective factor against military ban on openly gay service members, ever, as an unpaid blogger sitting alone in his survivors but also their community of friends, homicide so we want people to know that we and a riveting interview with the anonymous living room drinking coffee in his underwear, family and loved ones,” said The Network/La are here as a resource.” founder of the newly formed OutServe, an I don’t have the resources and organization Red Director Beth Leventhal, “We know that organization of actively serving LGBT mem- behind me to cover a big, complex story extreme jealously, and possessiveness over If you are concerned about your relation- bers of the military. with the rigor it deserves. I need to go to my one’s partner or ex-partner are two of the tell- ship or the relationship of a friend or family “It feels like the stories are choosing us,” real job in a few hours. The rent doesn’t pay tale signs of partner abuse.” member, call The Network/La Red’s hotline at Mirabella says of their story selection pro- itself.” The case is being watched by The Net- 617.742.4911 (voice), 617.227.4911 (tty). cess. “We try to cover conversations and So, no, Same Sex Sunday is not the second news events that dominate each week.” coming of Out magazine circa 1994. But the Mirabella doesn’t necessarily agree with content is interesting and lively, and, more the assessment that there’s little reporting, if often than not, you’ll come away from an any, coming from the blogosphere. “There episode more informed than you were before certainly are blogs that do very good report- listening. your mouse is in our house ing,” he writes. “The Bilerico Project has a Give it a try. You can find Same Sex Sun- nice mix of opinion and journalism. Good day on the web at samesexsunday.podbean. As You, Huffington Post, and Pam’s House com, and on Facebook, Twitter and iTunes. read us online: Blend have all broken news. There are mi- cro blogs that target neighborhoods, such as *Susan Ryan-Vollmar is a media relations therainbowtimesnews.com Capitol Hill Blog (in Seattle), [that] are out- and communications consultant. She lives in standing news organizations.” Arlington with her family. www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 • 13 Letters from page 2 During this time, Mike prosecuted a hate crime Dr. Scott Sylvia joins Parrelli Optical’s locations the way that troubled me greatly (some have been that occurred against two friends of mine. He solved, some not so much, some not at all, only did a superb job with that case, securing a con- in both Cambridges’ Porter Square and Danvers in my opinion). My opinion is a very small part of viction and acting on the recommendations of my “things.” What’s good for the whole is what’s im- friends in his sentencing request to the judge. Local Optometrist, Dr. Pilgrim Heath Care in Rhode portant. I believe that going on the results of last Mike and his wife Christine were also custom- Scott Sylvia, has relocated Island for eight years, where year’s pageant (again I am not talking in specif- ers of mine when I owned Pride & Joy in down- his Cambridge office and he chaired and served on nu- ics about the “who” wearing the crown), includ- town Northampton, and I got to know him better joined forces with Parrelli merous committees. ing the delight of witnessing transgender women there. Christine and I then began working togeth- Optical in two locations: 1 He is a member of the actually rejoicing publicly in themselves, that was er at Goggins, and my husband Steve and I have Porter Square, Cambridge, American Optometric As- huge, with all that most transgender folks have to since become friends with both of them. My trust MA (617-864-5094) and sociation, the AOA Contact go through on their individual, too often lonely, and respect for Mike has grown immensely. He 35 Elm St. in Danvers, MA Lens and Cornea Section, journeys! told us early on in our friendship that he immedi- (978-777-0379). the Mass Society of Optom- I have come to the conclusion that, as a burgeon- ately regretted signing the anti-marriage petition, Scott Sylvia, O.D. earned etrist, the Greater Boston ing phenomenon, the MTNE pageant is worth and he apologized to us profusely. his doctorate in Optometry Business Council, and the “sticking with” in all its “newborn” frailties and I know from my work as a victim advocate in from the New England Col- HRC. imperfections, as my mum always said, “Rome the Franklin and Hampshire district courts that lege of Optometry in 1986. Dr Sylvia performs com- wasn’t built in a day!” Who knows how many years having a skilled prosecutor as the DA is critical. He also has a Bachelor’s prehensive eye examina- of these events it will take to get it all “just right?!” Mike not only will bring his skills and experi- in Optometry and an MBA tions, medical eye care, and I’m 58 years old myself, and am still very far from ence as a prosecutor to this position, but he will with a concentration in he specializes in Contact being a “finished product!” How can I expect more also bring his demonstrable experience working health care administrative Lenses and is on the Lead- from any other growing person or thing? effectively with crime victims and area police management and marketing. ership team of Vistakon. He I would like to add that it I feel it would be won- departments as well. He is fair minded, open Dr. Sylvia has had a pri- accepts most major health derful to establish a similar “contest” for transgen- and honest with a high level of integrity and vate practice in Cambridge insurances, is accepting new compassion. I hope people will join me in sup- since 1998 and in 2010 he patients and has convenient der men, to choose a powerful spokesperson for Photo: courtesy scott sylyvia ALL transgender men! I hope that happens! porting Mike Cahillane for DA. moved his practice to Par- evening and Saturday office Thank you, Ericka, for having the courage to say —Mark Carmien, Florence, MA relli Optical. He is also an Dr. Scott Sylvia hours. pray adjunct clinical professor of what I am aware that others are thinking! I For more information check out his web- that there are those too who are, as I am, trying to Dear Editor, the New England College of Optometry and I am writing in support of David Sullivan for trains interns in his office. Prior to his private site www.drscottsylvia.com or Facebook page be patient, tending the seeds, feeding the ground, www.facebook/drscottsylvia. and awaiting, without force or unrealistic expecta- the next Northwestern District attorney. His ex- practice, he was a staff optometrist at Harvard tions, for the day, most likely many days hence, perience, knowledge and commitment to justice when the rose of our transgender community, make him the right choice in the Democratic pri- NYAC: Survey explores tobacco use by LGBTQ youth, notes bursts into full and healthy bloom with more than mary on September 14th. “equal standing,” more than mere “equal rights,” Dave was a selfless straight ally for the LGBT need for both better intervention and prevention strategies but also with the resounding applause that true community during the equal marriage struggle. beauty warrants! He participated in phone banks and letter writ- August 24, 2010 – A new report, “Com- youth are more likely to smoke than the gen- Respectfully submitted, ing campaigns in an effort to convince our state ing Out about Smoking: Tobacco Use in the eral youth population, but this report exam- —Linda Carragher, Sarasota, FL legislators to vote against amending the Massa- LGBTQ Young Adult Community” released ines why. There is plenty of opportunity for chusetts Constitution. Over the years, he worked today by the National Youth Advocacy Coali- intervention; we need to encourage tobacco Dear Editor, with our community as a strong progressive tion (NYAC) explores the reasons why sexual prevention programs designed and driven The letter to the Editor on your Aug. 19 edition advocate. minority youth smoke and suggests strategies by and for youth, which both emphasize the of the Times by Ericka Soto was definitely a good Dave has a long history of a commitment to for prevention. health risks of smoking and relate to the major letter. I have often asked the same questions she social justice. He has made impressive reforms The report finds that sexual minority youth stressors sexual minority youth face each day,” poses in it, but have not received answers. I have in his current position as Registrar of Probate. are likely to smoke due to unique stressors said Gregory Varnum, Executive Director of tried to help in the past, but this organization does He is currently a member of an o rganization such as discrimination and lack of family ac- NYAC: not seem objective. I read forwards of letters in FB that works to find shelter for homeless veterans ceptance; that many sexual minority youth that did not allow Glenn Koetzner to take photos and is a strong childrens’ rights advocate. He is see smoking as an important social activity; The National Youth Advocacy Coalition of the event. I also do not understand that. Most also unflinching in his support for the trangender that most sexual minority youth prefer to date (NYAC) is a national social justice organi- importantly, I see much division in this trans orga- community. nonsmokers; and that sexual minority youth zation working with lesbian, gay, bisexual, nization and it saddens me as a trans person, still in Dave Sullivan has publicly supported the smokers tend not to smoke heavily, with many transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) young the closet. I would not dare get a second rejection Transgender Civil Rights Bill that was recently wanting to quit. In order to reduce smoking people to strengthen the role of young people from the actual trans leaders in the area, or leader. before the Massachusetts Legislature. Unlike rates, the report recommends intervention pro- in the LGBTQ rights movement. Celebrating Ericka thank you for putting it all out there. his opponent, (who has stated that he needs to grams designed by youth and for youth, early its 17th anniversary, NYAC’s full-time profes- When things are not done right, the outcome can- read the current bill), Dave does not hesitate to outreach to youth smokers, and emphasis on sional staff supports local, state and national not be right either. No one should shun the press advocate for equal rights for all Massachusetts the health risks of smoking. The full report is organizations working to engage LGBTQ from events. I always am grateful to you, The citizens. This advocacy, along with his zero- available online here. youth. NYAC is committed to representing Rainbow Times, and my support of your work tolerance approach to hate-crimes, makes him “Coming Out About Smoking” utilizes in- the voices of young people - the largest living with the trans community stands out and shines the right choice for the LGBT community when formation from focus groups and a survey of generation - within the broader LGBTQ and where other papers have done nothing for us. considering who should fill the seat for the next nearly 1000 sexual minority youth. The sur- social justice movements. Through capac- Truly yours, Northwestern District Attorney. vey was written to address the gaps in research ity building, advocacy and youth engagement, —Taylor O’Mair, Northampton, MA —Jennifer Levi, GLAD Senior Attorney, on tobacco use in the LGBTQ community. NYAC is building a generation of impact. To Easthampton, MA “Current data suggest that sexual minority learn more, go to www.nyacyouth.org Dear Editor, I first met Mike Ca- hillane in 2001 when I opened the Western Mass office of the Gay Men’s Domestic Violence Proj- ect. Mike went out of his way to help me get started by introducing me to vari- ous people in the district courts, DA’s offices and police departments in Franklin and Hampshire counties. He immediately “got it” when it came to the nuances of pros- ecuting domestic violence cases within same sex re- lationships. He treated my clients with dignity and respect, and was very em- pathetic and concerned for their well being. 14 • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Melissa Ferrick: Lyrical liver, lover, lesbian and Queer Carnevale virgin By: Mikey Rox*/Special for TRT out-and-proud lesbian has held you back Singer-songwriter Melissa Ferrick is professionally? no stranger to the stage. MF: No. And if it has, I’m glad I don’t carry With 12 years of formative, formal that bitter weight on my shoulders. music training – including classical TRT: In a 2004 interview with Between the violin, piano, trumpet, bass and acous- Lines (an LGBT publication in Michigan), you tic guitar (the latter of which she taught told the interviewer that you hope to find a “re- herself, thankyouverymuch) – the Ips- ally gorgeous woman that I fall completely and wich, Mass., native was practically born madly in love with.” Has that happened for you to rock. yet? But you don’t have to take our word MF: It’s happened 4 times. [Laughs] for it. Because on Sept. 25, Ferrick will TRT: I was told that the lesbians in this area perform at Queer Carnevale, alongside go crazy for you. Perhaps you’ll find the one some of gay entertainment’s best acts, you’re looking for while you’re here for Queer like Sister Funk, Carnevale. Carol Hahn, All The MF: Maybe… Kings Men and The TRT: Speaking of QC, what Ellingtones. can your fans expect when you In a recent inter- perform in a couple weeks? view, Ferrick – who MF: A celebration of life and entertainment gained notoriety when love. I hope to be a part of a day she replaced the opening act where all my troubles disappear for singer Morrissey, in 1991 and I have a few hours of com- – talks about her upcom- plete brain relaxation. Hopefully ing performance, which will my performance will help ac- benefit the LGBT Coalition complish this for me. of Western Massachusetts; TRT: Your performance is part addresses the rumors sur- of a fundraiser for the LGBT rounding her departure from Coalition of Western Massachu- Atlantic Records; discusses setts. Why did you want to be the future of her music; and part of this? coyly suggests that she’s MF: I met the folks who are single. putting this on at NoHo Pride Uh huh – looks like huntin’ Photo: The Agency Group this summer. It was an imme- season came early this year. Melissa Ferrick diate love connection, and they asked me to come play for this. I THE RAINBOW TIMES: You’ve been a mu- am happy to give what I can to any LBGT event sician all your life, starting with classical violin anywhere, when possible. lessons at age 5. What drew you to music so TRT: What acts are you looking forward to young? catching at the festival? MELISSA FERRICK: No idea, really. When MF: Antigone Rising. There may be a jam I was 4, I told my parents that I had wanted to happening. play the violin since before I was born, so they TRT: You recently released your 16th record – bought me one. I always wanted to be around an album of cover songs – titled “Enough About music and art. Me.” Why that title? What’s the significance? TRT: You’re known to speak openly about MF: I thought it was a clever idea and a bit of your sexuality, your love life and personal life play on words since I cover my own songs on in interviews, which is something that a lot of the CD as well. I made that album because I entertainers steer clear of. Why do you discuss was having a real writers’ for about eight such personal issues in an open forum when months and one of the ways to stay sane when you don’t necessarily have to? you can’t produce your own art is to dive into MF: Good question. I’ve been very open about someone else’s. It was also great to not be so my sexuality since 1995, and that still remains me-and-my-music obsessed. Making this al- true to this day. However, my personal love life bum really gave me more than I ever thought and whom I date has become more and more it would. It was harder than I thought it would important for me to keep private as I get older. be to make, but I loved playing and engineering I am known in my family for lacking a ‘filter’ everything again like I had done on “The Other when I speak, so this is both a burden and a gift, Side.” but it’s who I am. TRT: You have an album of original material TRT: You were signed by Atlantic Records af- in the works, which is set to release later this ter you replaced the opening act for Morrissey year. Is that album on track? What can fans ex- in 1991, but the label dropped you when your pect with this forthcoming disc? first two albums didn’t meet producers’ expec- MF: Yes, I’m making a new originals record tations. You’re quoted as saying that you “bot- this late fall/winter. I wouldn’t expect it to be tomed out” and dealt with that blow with exces- released until late spring/early summer 2011. sive drinking and drug use. How did you escape I’m finding the songs to be quite introspective the clutches of addiction? and sad. Break-up material, angst, frustration, a MF: First off, I was given the option to stay on growing pains kind of a record – which seems Atlantic at the time from my A&R representa- to be putting a lot of smiles on my friends and tive. He had signed Hootie and the Blowfish and fans’ faces so far. they were extremely successful for Atlantic so TRT: After that, what’s next? he had some pull to keep me there. We talked MF: More love, more touring, more writing, about the validity of me as an artist staying on more teaching, more growing, more passion. Atlantic and the obvious direction of labels at the And then this lingering threat to start taking time. It was 1995 and people like Ani DiFranco yoga. were beginning to pave the way for independent music. My A&R guy and I felt it was best to *Mikey Rox is an award-winning journalist leave Atlantic with my head held high. As far and the founder of Paper Rox Scissors, a copy- as the addiction, it’s a deep one; it’s something I writing and creative consulting company in deal with on a daily basis in my life. New York City. He can be reached at mikey@ TRT: Have you ever felt that being an paperroxscissors.com. www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 • 15 16 • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 • 17 10 ‘Gaycons’ that should make themselves scarce By: Mikey Rox*/Special for TRT [SOURCE: http://www.bilerico.com/2010/08/ Andy Cohen Late, great comedian Rodney Dangerfield michael_lucas_hates_muslims_does_the_ad- Host of Bravo’s reunion shows and self-pro- was famous for his schtick “Don’t Get No Re- vocate.php]. Combine those dastardly traits with moting chat-fest “Watch What Happens: Live,” spect.” The LGBT community sympathizes, an unequivocally petty persona that can’t han- Cohen seemingly came out of nowhere. Except old friend – we don’t either, and here are 10 dle when people call him out on his own igno- he came from somewhere – right down the hall, reasons why. rance and you’ve got a grandstander of inferior where he serves as the network’s senior vice design. But that’s neither here nor there. Lucas president of production and programming. One Perez Hilton never could keep his mouth shut – in person or can contemplate how the decision was made His super snarky, eponymous gossip site on screen – so his latest nonsensical statements to pluck the walking advertisement for anti- may pull in nine million visitors a month shouldn’t shock. He enjoys rocking the boat, so tanning from his desk and put him in front of [SOURCE: http://www.ebizmba.com/articles/ long as the boat is filled with bare-chested, non- the camera, but one doesn’t have to: It seems gossip-websites], but Perez Hilton (AKA Ma- Islamic boys and wads of cash. Here’s hoping as if Cohen coyly campaigned for the job, rio Lavandeira) is one nasty homo. For starters, that his ship sinks sooner than later. because, well, he thinks he deserves to be on he actively outs closeted celebrities [SOURCE: TV [SOURCE: http://nymag.com/arts/tv/fea- http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/14065223] Boy George tures/63010/]. In an interview with New York for his own amusement – and he’s proud of Not exactly the “Karma Chameleon” of which Magazine earlier this year, he said: “I don’t it. But that’s not what makes this self-loath- he sings, ’80s icon Boy George has slighted have a lot of self-doubt or cracks in my self- ing sloth wholly despicable; Hilton is a hypo- fans by attempting to perform concerts high on confidence.” That Jackhole of the Week award crite of the highest order. Consider the 2009 heroin [SOURCE: http://www.thisdayinrock. he gave himself recently is well earned. confrontation between the blogger and Black com/index.php/general/1961-born-on-this-day- Eyed Pea’s member Will.I.Am at Toronto’s george-odowd-boy-george-singer-dj-culture/] Lindsay Lohan Much Music Awards wherein Hilton fired off and landed himself in handcuffs for falsely re- On-again, off-again lady lover Lindsay Lo- porting a burglary, an offense for which he was han was once a bright and shining star. Not a double dose of F-bombs, calling the singer “a Photo: James Minchin III fined and sentenced to community service. Of anymore. A tumultuous relationship with a fucking faggot.” [SOURCE: http://www.tmz. Mellisa Etheridge com/2009/06/22/perez-vs-will-i-am-caught- course, everyone deserves a second chance. And semi-famous female DJ, a few stints in rehab on-tape/] Alas, you know what they say: Takes marriage you want to honor. Besides, with 27 George got one. But then he went and mucked and jail time will do that to a girl. While ac- one to know one. million records sold worldwide surely Ether- that up by assaulting and imprisoning a male es- cidents happen – forget the DUI; “I Know Who idge can show a little sympathy for the mother cort. Reports claim that George bound and beat Killed Me” should have been considered a Dan Choi of her twins – if only so she can stop scrounging Norwegian rent boy Audun Carlsen because he crime – it’s the wacktress’s apparent disregard What began as a benign and commendable up gas money from the couch cushions. thought the hooker was stealing personal pho- for authority and woe-is-me attitude that leaves campaign to shed light on the military’s dis- tos from his computer [SOURCE: http://www. a bitter taste in people’s mouths. Throw in a criminating “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy has Michael Lucas nydailynews.com/gossip/2008/12/05/2008-12- family full of hangers-on who will stop at noth- turned the recently discharged activist into a Besides being one of the most loud-mouthed 05_court_finds_boy_george_guilty_of_false_ ing to get their busted mugs on the cover of a money-grubbing media whore. According to figures in gay culture – and a pornographer i.html]. As a result of the fracas, the Culture magazine and you’ve got a recipe for we-don’t- an angry letter addressed to Choi from Nonnie (doesn’t that say it all right there?) – Lucas is Clubber was placed behind bars, serving only give-a-shit-about-you-anymore stew. Hopeful- Ouch, president of Texas Tech University’s also an unapologetic bigot: He hates Muslims, four months of a 15-month sentence that should ly there’s enough to feed the whole clan. have lasted forever. Gay-Straight Alliance, the former Army lieu- and he’s not afraid to shout it from the rafters See Gaycons on page 23 tenant personally declined a request to speak at the school because it couldn’t cough up enough cash [SOURCE: http://www.queerty. top 10 best seller videos com/dan-chois-speaking-fees-spoiling-his-ap- Courtesy: wolfevideo.com peal-among-grassroots-activists-20100803/]. Choi’s asking price? $10,000. Nobody will deny that the fight for equal rights comes at a Lesbian Top 10 cost – but who knew it cost so much? Don’t 1. We Have to Stop Now - sweat the snub, Nonnie. Your money’s better spent on a real American hero. Season 1 2. Loving Annabelle Reichen Lehmkhul After dropping long-time and “Amazing Race” 3. Mädchen in Uniform partner Chip Arndt, Lehmkhul star-fucked his 4. Hannah Free way through gay Hollywood until he hit pay dirt – Lance Bass [Source: http://www.people. 5. The L Word: Final Season com/people/article/0,26334,1219142,00.html]. 6. And Then Came Lola Their short-lived, rickety romance ended just six months after it landed within the pages of 7. 8: The Mormon Proposition People Magazine, but Lehmkhul already got 8. The World Unseen what he wanted – relevance among the vain and vapid. Case in point: This fall the former 9. The Baby Formula Air Force captain will headline Logo’s “Real Housewives” rip-off, “The A-List: New York,” 10. The Four-Faced Liar a reality program that will follow the lives of six equally pathetic gay men. The first indica- tion that this show will blow? Somebody at Gay Top 10 Logo doesn’t know the alphabet – or has an incredibly sinister sense of humor. 1. Boy 2. Pornography: A Thriller Melissa Etheridge One minute the “Come to My Window” 3. 8: The Mormon Proposition crooner is speaking out against California’s 4. Plan B same-sex marriage ban with wife Tammy Lynn Michaels by her side, the next she’s serving 5. La Mission said wife with divorce papers. Michaels, via her blog, claims that she was blindsided by Ether- 6. BOYCRAZY idge’s filing and left broke with two toddlers 7. Mr. Right to feed [SOURCE: http://www.huffingtonpost. com/2010/07/03/tammy-lynn-michaels-melis_ 8. The Butch Factor n_634926.html] – and if that’s the case, shame 9. Clapham Junction on the lesbian rock legend. Spousal support doesn’t just apply to straight people; you can’t 10. David’s Birthday pick and choose what aspects of traditional 18 • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Deep Inside Hollywood: Dolly Parton & Queen Latifah come to Jesus By: Romeo San Vicente*/TRT Special whether it’s based on and the queer indie Dare, starred in this year’s Stephen Collins gwts his gay on for Brothers real life, The Mirac- unspectacular remake of Nightmare on Elm & Sisters role ulous Year sounds Street, and she’s the younger sister of Broke- Stephen Collins played a Protestant clergy- promising, with a back Mountain’s Kate Mara. She’ll soon be man and family man on the long-running 7th cast that also features seen in Fincher’s The Social Network – the Heaven, but he’s about to get his gay on in fellow Tony winners gig that got her the role as Salander – and by the new season of Brothers & Sisters. The 63- Frank Langella, Patti the time Dragon Tattoo opens in 2011, she’s year-old Collins plays Charlie, who’ll be dat- LuPone and Eddie bound to be a household name. ing Uncle Saul (Ron Rifkin) and helping Saul Redmayne, plus Os- deal with the HIV-positive diagnosis he re- car-winners Susan Dolly Parton and Queen Latifah come to- ceived at the end of last season. The Brothers Sarandon (acting) gether to serenade Jesus & Sisters gig is part of a busy fall TV season and Kathryn Big- They’ve got two of the most speculated- for Collins, who’s also got a recurring role on Romeo San Vicente elow (directing the about private lives in show business, but Dolly the new superhero show No Ordinary Family. pilot, written by gay Parton and Queen Latifah got to that place be- (The fact that gay producer Greg Berlanti is Oscar-nominated screenwriter John Logan). cause of their talent. So there are a lot of rea- involved with both shows no doubt facilitated Audiences will have to wait until the possibly sons to get excited about these two titans team- Collins’ multi-tasking.) Collins’ character is miraculous year of 2011 to catch what prom- ing up for Joyful Noise, a new movie about slated for only a few episodes of B&S, but if ises to be a dishy dive into Broadway’s back- two fierce ladies banding together to save their the characters have chemistry – or if No Or- stage drama. small-town gospel choir from a budget cut dinary Family faces an early demise – maybe shutdown. For one thing, Parton plans to write he’ll get an extension. TV primetime could use Finally! Rooney Mara is The Girl with the some original songs for the film (that’s never a a good November/December gay romance, af- Dragon Tattoo bad thing) and though Latifah got her start as ter all. Much like the searches for Scarlett O’Hara, a rapper, she’s proven she can belt it out to the James Bond, Lestat and Harry Potter, everyone bleachers in Living Out Loud and Hairspray. Sondheim, played for laughs wondered who would play Lisbeth Salander in The cherry on top of this diva sundae is that No one is officially saying that the new HBO the movies based on the popular mysteries by it’s being written and directed by gay filmmak- series, The Miraculous Year, is specifically Stieg Larsson. Big names like Natalie Portman er Todd Graff, who in the last few years has Photo: New Line Cinema based on the life of legendary gay Broadway and Scarlett Johansson were tossed around, but given us two happily music-packed films – the Queen Latifah composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim, but it’s relative newcomer Rooney Mara who’s show-tune-teen crowd-pleaser Camp and the it’s hard to miss the resemblances. Sondheim landed the coveted role of the badass bisexual underappreciated rocker-teen comedy Band- *Romeo San Vicente’s joyful noises have suffered a heart attack at age 49, and Year’s hacker in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and slam. If you haven’t seen Graff’s two previous gotten him evicted from at least three thin- protagonist (played by Tony-winning actor its two sequels, which will be brought to the directorial efforts, make sure to check them walled apartments. He can be reached care of Norbert Leo Butz) is a 44-year-old Broad- screen by David Fincher. Rooney who-ney, out before Joyful Noise hits theaters in 2011. this publication or at DeepInsideHollywood@ way composer who suffers an aneurysm. But you ask? She popped up in Youth in Revolt You won’t be sorry. qsyndicate.com.

reach out to a dedicated readership & informed community...advertise today @ therainbowtimesnews.com Creep of the Week: Republican Jeremy Walters By: D’Anne Witkowski*/TRT Special mosexuals (but not, apparently, homo “GAY” ear Internet Citizens: Facebook is not sexuals. Yet). And although “this tells (him) private. I don’t care how many privacy- alot” (though apparently it doesn’t tell him that Dsetting loops you jump through. The “a lot” is two words, not one), he’s not planning more “friends” you have, the more public your a gay killing spree (at least that’s how I interpret page. Facebook is not a lockbox for your most “so should we kill them NO”). He’s just waiting private feelings and random musings. Especial- for AIDS to do the job for him. ly if you’re a public figure. Gay rights groups and the Iowa GOP quickly Jeremy Walters, an Iowan Republican run- denounced Walters. ning for Congress, learned this the hard way “Mr. Walters’ comments are inappropriate and when anti-gay posts he made on his Facebook in no way represent the beliefs of the Republican wall were exposed. Not only do his posts show Party of Iowa,” Republican Party of Iowa Chair- that he has serious issues regarding gays, also man Matt Strawn told the Iowa Independent. evident is a desperate cry for help in the punc- I think my favorite thing about Walters’ post tuation and grammar department. is how he ends with, “That’s how I feel,” as if At 9:33 p.m. Aug. 12 Walters wrote, “Homo- it’s simply a response to one of his friends post- sexual ‘GAY’ is not of God!!!! In the Bible it ing, “Hey, Jeremy. How are you?” on his wall. reads; Leviticus 20:13 – King James Bible If a Actually, according to Walters’ apology, man also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a that’s pretty much what happened. woman, both of them have committed an abom- “I am not against people having a gay life- ination: they shall surely be put to death; their style, and the statements made on Facebook blood shall be upon them.” have been taken the wrong way,” Walters told OK, so he gives a little shout out to Leviticus The Iowa Independent. “The statement regard- on a Thursday night. So what? ing gay homosexuality was not meant to be of- Well, at 9:45 p.m., having thought things over fensive and I deeply apologgize. As far as the for a good 12 minutes, Walters posted, “The quote from Bible; I was replying to someone Holy Bible say if your ‘GAY’ homosexual they elses post. It should have been posted as a com- shall surely be put to death; their blood shall ment on their page, not my Facebook wall.” be upon them. This tells me a lot so should we As far as apologies go, it’s a little weak (“I’m kill them NO. They Need to ask God to forgive just bad at Facebook!”). It does, however, them of their sins and mean it turn away from strengthen the appearance that the man running it. They also need to know that when it says that for Congress in Iowa on the GOP ticket is not their blood shall be upon them that tells me it is only a heart-on-his-sleeve bigot, but that he is AIDS. That’s how I feel.” also functionally illiterate. I’m honestly not sure First of all, Walters needs to decide: is it “ho- which one is sadder. mosexual ‘GAY’” or “‘GAY’ homosexual?” He uses them interchangeably, as if they’re *D’Anne Witkowski has been gay for pay even close to the same thing. since 2003. She’s a freelance writer and poet Secondly, holy bat-shit crazy AIDS blood, (believe it!). When she’s not taking on the creeps Batman. So AIDS is God’s punishment for be- of the world she reviews rock ‘n’ roll shows in ing homosexual “GAYS” and/or “GAY” ho- Detroit with her twin sister. www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 • 19 A pesar del sufrimiento, el Faith, Family, and God: Support Muslim suicidio no puede ser opción LGBT and halt the ignorance around it Por: Francisco Cartagena Méndez*/ de su identidad sexual. By: Paul P. Jesep*/TRT Columnist did the Prophet [Muhammad] make peace with

d the unbelievers.” Thomas Paine (atheist), Ben Especial para TRT Para reducir los suicidios entre la comu- Bigotry is being unleashed against nidad LGBT, los gobiernos deberían entonces Muslim Americans due to the proposed Franklin (agnostic), and Thomas Jefferson “El joven sintió el filo de una navaja o (deist) held comparable views about letting acariciar sus venas. Recordaba su dolor hacer una realidad el otorgamiento de los dere- mosque and Islamic Center near the chos humanos universales que no adjudican a former World Trade Center. Imagine citizens follow their own conscience. envuelto en un universo de rechazo y g nuestra comunidad por razones moralistas y being an LGBT or Searching Muslim Calling Islam a religion of peace is not being discrimen a su alrededor. Un torrente de politically correct. According to Ali, the root ision religiosas. Por un lado se hacen expresiones American at this time. lágrimas brotaba de sus rojos e hincha- word in Islam is “salm.” “Slim” is the root in dos ojos ya cansados de llorar por su sobre democracias y libertades, pero por otro, It’s bad enough being a minority in a v una pareja LGBT todavía no posee los mis- homophobic culture, but it is especially Muslim. Each refers to peace. Ali said that a identidad; y un volcán ardiente hacía “Muslim is therefore one who leads a life of erupción en su corazón ya sin sangre y mos derechos que parejas heterosexuales, a la difficult being a minority within the toma de decisiones médicas sobre sus parejas, LGBT and Searching Community. peace, peace with God… and peace with man, palpitar, razón por la cual, el suicidio which means that he causes no injury to any fue la consecuencia de la paliza que su y derecho a herencias, por ejemplo. Tampoco Non-Muslim LGBT or Searching hay leyes claras en contra de discrimen laboral Americans must not man …” Flying planes into propio padre le propinó al enterarse de buildings does not reflect su homosexualidad”. por identidad sexual o género, ni en contra de jump on the emotional Islam, like Christianity,

atin atin peace. Lo anterior es la triste realidad de la homofobia, principales causas de suicidios bandwagon to advo- entre la comunidad LGBT. cate that the mosque can be distorted by Jihad doesn’t mean to kill. l miles de jóvenes y personas alrededor En resumen, se hace necesario que las leyes and Center be relocat- Ali wrote that its literal transla- del mundo. La presión social y religio- extremists who misuse tion is “striving.” “The Proph- sa que continuamente juzga, castiga y denigra así como los derechos cobijen a todo ser hu- ed. Let not the perse- mano, así como que se lleven a cabo campañas cuted become the new faith to hurt, marginalize, et,” he said, “is commanded la homosexualidad es consecuencia de tristeza of name e masivas de educación sobre la diversidad, y la persecutors. here to carry on a jihad against y gran malestar. Pero cuando los rechazos y las and dehumanize. disbelievers as well as hypo- ofensas son protagonizados por nuestros pro- prevención de suicidios en nuestra población. h Independent of the Habrá de establecer líneas de apoyo telefónicas fact that the Center will be in a former crites ... the only significance that can be at- pios familiares el dolor es insoportable. tached to these words is that he must continue Desde milenios se ha condenado la homo- con profesionales que puedan brindar ayuda a Burlington Coat Factory building not personas LGBT, entablar campañas televisiv- far from a strip club, there is remark- to preach forcibly both to the disbelievers and sexualidad y la mayoría de las iglesias han the hypocrites.” Think Mormons or Jehovah impuesto ideas en contra de los homosexuales as y en la prensa sobre nuestra comunidad para able ignorance about the Holy Qur’an.

in t in Witnesses at the door reluctant to go away. que se contradicen en sus propias prédicas de enfatizar que el suicidio no es opción. Y, sin I wonder how many people now up in duda, deben haber otros recursos que puedan arms have read the book. They may be annoying and perhaps members amor. Por un lado hablan de aquello de que of the National Rifle Association (NRA), but “amarás a tu prójimo como a ti mismo” y “no lograr disminuir tan lamentable acción de la de Islam, like Christianity, can be distorted by quitarse la vida. extremists who misuse faith to hurt, marginal- they don’t use force to enter or convert. juzgarás”. Y por otro lado, lo más que hacen es Imam and theologian Abu Hanifa (699-767) juzgar y condenar al infierno a los homosexu- El discrimen hace derramar sangre o da paso ize, and dehumanize. Anti-Semitism no more al ahorcamiento de la vida de niños, jóvenes reflects the teachings of Jesus, a practicing wrote that someone is not an infidel “on ac- ales, lo que provoca que un padre agreda a su count of sin; nor do we deny his faith.” Islam, hijo/a por causa de su identidad sexual. y adultos en Puerto Rico, Latinoamérica, Es- Jew, than the travesty that occurred on Sept. tados Unidos y en todo el mundo. Quizás uno 11. The Catholic Church allowed the Spanish like all world religions, has sacred, universal El suicidio está aumentando en alarmantes truths. There is beauty to be found in Islam cifras a nivel mundial, y cada día son más los de tus familiares o amigos ve al suicidio como Inquisition to go on for 600 hundred years. It una alternativa de para liberarse del sufrimien- didn’t end until the early 20th Century. Jews, if only we taken the time to study, learn, and adolescentes que son parte de esta alta inciden- listen. Ignorance is the enemy. It is the same cia. No se puede obviar, que muchas de esas to, de los rechazos y discrimen. No seas parte scientists, black cats, free thinkers, men copu- de la causa al juzgar y condenar a tú prójimo, lating with Satan, and women able to fly on ignorance that denies all LGBT and Searching personas lo son entre la comunidad LGBT que Americans equal rights. no pudieron soportar el discrimen y el rechazo se parte de la cura, amando a los tuyos y a los broom sticks were among the hundreds of demás sin importar su identidad. thousands burned and tortured. If you know someone Muslim in the LGBT del cual en vida fueron víctimas. and Searching Community be sure to offer Desde esta perspectiva y teniendo en cuenta According to the Qur’an “fight them until * Escrito por Francisco “El Jimagua” Cart- there is no persecution.” Maulana Muham- them a kind word. These sisters and brothers que el discrimen, los rechazos, la burla y las need support more than ever. ofensas poseen una estrecha relación etiológi- agena Méndez, escritor y activista social bo- mad Ali (1874-1951), a renowned scholar of camente con la depresión, el asunto del discri- ricua; para comentarios al autor: eljimagua@ Islam, wrote the first English translation of the live.com o en su blog: http://jimagua.blogspot. Holy Qur’an in 1917. He said that persecution *Paul is an author, attorney, and a seminary men en contra de la comunidad LGBT debería trained, ordained priest in greater Albany, NY. ser tratado por los gobiernos como un asunto com. Traducción al inglés por Wilfred W. must end when “men are not forced to accept Labiosa. or renounce a religion, being at liberty to pro- His book “Crucifying Jesus and Secularizing de política pública. Necesitando de antemano America – the Republic of Faith without Wis- que los propios gobiernos no sean los princi- fess any religion of the truth of which they are To read this story in English: www.therain- convinced, then there should be no more fight- dom,” is available on Amazon.com. He can be pales ofensores y discriminadores de miles de reached at [email protected]. seres humanos, que lloran y sufren por causa bowtimesmass.com/latinvisionsept2. ing.” He further noted that “for many a time 5k & counting! thank you! find us now on our fan page - search the rainbow times

Sullivan from page 3 of financial greed. I will bear this in mind in TRT: What is one of your proudest moments TRT: What’s your motto? of hate crimes that their DA’s office will listen exercising my discretion. as a lawyer? DS: My personal motto is, “Do the right patiently and respond appropriately. It will be TRT: What is your position regarding people DS: My election as Register of Hampshire thing.” my goal to build trust and establish means of who use drugs as opposed to people who sell County Probate and Family Court and the TRT: What are your thoughts and plans to access and support for all victims, but espe- drugs? opportunity to lead in the transformation of work for the LGBT community? cially those who been shunned and ignored in DS: Drug addiction is a disease best controlled a hostile “divorce court” into a welcoming, DS: I plan to work for all the citizens of the the past. by “tough love” mandated treatment. Recre- user-friendly, innovative court that assists el- Northwestern District. My administration will TRT: Who did you vote for in the 2008 presi- ational use of drugs is a social problem best ders, families, children of divorcing parents, be open, accessible, inclusive, conscientious dential election and why? combatted by financial penalties and educa- disabled citizens and all other litigants, law- and as transparent as the law and ethics of the DS: I was the Hampshire County Co-Coordi- tional programs. Selling drugs for profit (as yers and witnesses in dealing with the life’s office permit. I especially intend to reach out nator and a Western Massachusetts Regional opposed to support an addiction), is a scourge greatest emotional challenges. to groups who have traditionally and histori- Organizer for Barack Obama and made nu- and blight on our communities and needs to TRT: What is your position on police depart- cally been subjected to discrimination, preju- merous campaign trips to New Hampshire meet with vigorous prosecution, lengthy sen- ment members’ public endorsement of politi- dice, neglect and official avoidance. This will, on his behalf. On Election Day, I worked the tences and coordinated law enforcement ef- cal candidates? of course, include the LGBT community. The polls and the telephones and proudly cast my forts to trace the money to the profit makers. DS: I have declined to accept contributions or District Attorney is the people’s lawyer and I vote for Barack Obama, the candidate of hope TRT: What national initiatives do you support? endorsements from employees of the Hamp- intend to represent all my clients vigorously, and progressive change. DS: I support the repeal of DOMA; I support shire Probate and Family Court, the North- zealously, proudly and passionately. TRT: In this economic climate, crime is in an the empowerment of federal agencies to super- western District Attorney’s office, and all law The Democratic primary is September 14. upswing. How would you control it? vise off shore drilling and the development of enforcement agencies that deal with the NW DS: I have been an advocate for social and alternative energy sources. I support increased DA office. I am proud to have the public sup- Dave is married to Catherine M. Hancock economic justice all my adult life and would federal funding of college and vocational port of over forty former prosecutors, several and they both have three 3 daughters; Marie, 5k and counting... continue in the movement as District Attorney, education; a universal, one payer program of retired police chiefs and a contingent of retired 20; Anne, 18; and Minh, 12. For more infor- using the bully pulpit to support the expansion medical care; repeal of the Bush tax cuts for state police investigators but I would not ac- mation about Dave Sullivan’s campaign mes- of the economic safety net. Prosecution will the wealthiest Americans; and a Constitutional cept personal endorsements from active police sages, endorsements, his stance on relevant not prevent crimes of economic necessity; it is, Amendment to prohibit unlimited political officers because it could cause an appearance issues, and/or to volunteer, visit: www.dave- meet us now on our fan page! however, a powerful tool in preventing crimes contributions by corporations and unions. of favoritism or bias. sullivan.org/. search the rainbow times to join us! 20 • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com 59% Support gay marriage in RI according to poll thank you! By: Joe Siegel/TRT Reporter of 50, and 49 percent of all voters over 50. Support for same-sex marriage in “The Catholic number is particularly no- meet us the Ocean State continues to grow, table, as this is the most Catholic state in according to the results of a new the country,” Walker noted. “It is important now on our poll. And activists are encouraged that this issue is not about forcing churches that Rhode Island may soon join to marry same-sex couples, nor is it about neighboring states Massachusetts changing the Sacraments. In fact, in the survey, when we provide voters with reas- news and Connecticut in granting the right fan page! to wed to same-sex couples. surance that this is about civil marriages d Fifty-nine percent of Rhode Island – that their First Amendment rights would search voters support allowing same-sex be protected – support jumps to 66 percent couples to legally marry in the state. overall.” What’s more significant is that this Political candidates who support marriage the rainbow times an marks the first time a majority of rights for same-sex couples are helped, not l voters voiced support for marriage Photo: Andrew Collins hurt, by their stance on the issue, the poll to join us! equality since advocates began poll- Mosaic Canyon, in Death Valley National Park found. ing on the issue in 2006, and repre- Twenty-seven percent of voters say they sents a 10 percent increase in support in Rhode Island now and treat all the families are more likely to support a pro-equal- from the last poll conducted in 2008. of our great state equally,” said Kathy Kush- ity candidate, with 24 percent responding less e is e “As many of Rhode Island’s sis- nir, Executive Director of Marriage Equality likely and nearly half saying it would make no Rhode Island (MERI) and lead organization of difference. follow us ...

d ter states have implemented marriage equality, the majority support we see the Rhode Island Marriage Coalition. A bill which would legalize same-sex mar- Majority support for marriage equality in o in this poll is not all that surprising,” riage in the state has been introduced in the said Dave Walker, vice president at Rhode Island reflects a growth in support General Assembly every year since 1997. h Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research. nationally for allowing same-sex couples to However, the bill has never made it out of the “Rhode Island voters are clearly ready marry legally. In a nationwide CNN/Opinion Judiciary Committee for a vote. r for change.” Research Corporation poll earlier this month, Republican Governor Don Carcieri, whose Rhode Island and Maine are the only New 52 percent of respondents agreed when asked, term expires in January, has been a vehement England states that do not permit same-sex “Do you think gays and lesbians should have opponent of same-sex marriage. Several of the couples to legally marry. a constitutional right to get married and have candidates hoping to succeed Carcieri, includ- The survey of 502 likely voters in Rhode their marriage recognized by law as valid?” It ing former Senator Lincoln Chafee and State Island was conducted by Greenberg Quinlan is the first national poll in which a majority of Treasurer Frank Caprio, have pledged to sign Rosner Research July 7-12. The margin of er- Americans voiced support for equal marriage a same-sex marriage bill into law if they are ror is +/-4.4 percent. rights. elected. Same-sex marriage activists welcomed the Among the Rhode Island poll’s major And the Speaker of the House, Gordon news at a press conference on August 18. findings: Fox, who is openly gay, has the ability to twitter.com/ “This poll makes clear that there is no reason · 57 percent of Catholics support equality, as get the marriage bill voted on by the entire why we cannot enact a marriage equality law do 58 percent of Independents, 60 percent of legislature. therainbowtimes moderates, 56 percent of women over the age www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 • 21 We hold these truths to be self-evident: We are all equals By: Deja Nicole Greenlaw*/TRT Columnist they respect me and don’t forget that this country is made up of im- tired of even defending why we all should love the United States of America. I my views? Do I not migrants! That is how we started. have equal rights. How can we not have equal am proud of how we were formed, count? Am I not a Please don’t forget the “Give me your tired, rights? Even the Pledge of Allegiance ends Iwhat we did and the incredible real person? Do I not your poor, your huddled masses yearning with “liberty and justice for all.” Why do some words of that marvelous document, have the same rights to breathe free...” Those words are etched at people not understand this simple, basic con- the United States Constitution. Our as everyone else? the base of the Statue cept? What is wrong

inion forefathers and foremothers realized Why do they want of Liberty monument. with these people who that they needed a place to be free to me to live by their They are from the “I see people rallying against do not respect others? p be themselves. They also realized that rules? Isn’t this self- 1883 poem titled “New And why do some peo- not everybody thought like them but ish, uncaring and to- Colossus” by Emma the Muslims, against the ple agree with them? that these people needed to be free to tally un-American? I Lazarus. These words immigrants, the same sex So my point is accep- be themselves too. We all should have say that it is. welcome the immi- tance of others. You do the right to our life, liberty and pursuit Deja Nicole Greenlaw What makes these grant. Please do not marriages and the rights not have to agree with of happiness. Aren’t these noble goals people think that forget that. Remember different viewpoints for everyone in this country? This was what they think is right and that we should all the right to life, lib- for LGBT people; especially and you don’t even the beginning of America and this is bow to what they say? How dare they even in- erty and the pursuit of against the Ts. The people have to like everybody what was envisioned. This is the Unit- sinuate this let alone scream it all across the happiness? but really, doesn’t ev- ed States of America and this is what country. These people are dangerous, selfish, Same-sex marriage. who rally against these folks erybody in the United we want it to be. and ignorant. What is so wrong with States of America have

trans o trans usually use their idea of how But, lately I have seen actions and Let’s take the hatred of Muslims. Yes, the the marriage of two the right to their own feelings to the contrary and it saddens me. I see people who championed the Sept. 11 bomb- people who love each the U.S. should be as their basis opinions and don’t they people rallying against the Muslims, against ings were Muslims but they were the extreme, other? How the heck for denial of rights of others.” all have the right to life, the immigrants, the same sex marriages and the militant Muslims, not the Muslim who lives does that concern you? liberty and the pursuit rights for LGBT people; especially against the next door to you. These next door Muslim Why do you even care? of happiness? I’ll say Ts. The people who rally against these folks people are just as much American as you are, What gives you the right to deny two people it again, “Don’t forget ‘Liberty and justice for usually use their idea of how the U.S. should so don’t they have the same rights that you do? who love each other the chance to get married? all.’ ” be as their basis for denial of rights of others. Why can’t they build a community center, cu- How you can reason that it should be put to a Please start respecting your neighbors and These people are not practicing American val- linary school, and basketball court and prayer vote? That is beyond sane reasoning! People’s stop acting like an anti-American. ues. They are trying to place their own values center a few blocks away from Ground Zero? rights should never be voted on. How can you on others. This is not right. Because of extremist, irrational, emotionally- even think of voting on someone else’s rights? *Deja Nicole Greenlaw is a local trans- I can respect other’s views even if they are charged views, that’s why. Just because some religious dogma does not woman who has 3 grown children and works totally opposite from my views. I may dislike What about the immigrants? Don’t they approve is that any right to deny others of their at a local Fortune 500 company. She can be what they say but I will fight for their right to have a right to try to better their lives just as life, liberty and pursuit of happiness? contacted at [email protected]. say it. If I can respect others, then why can’t our forefathers and foremothers did? Please You know, I am getting pretty sick and online calendar of events @ therainbowtimesnews.com Ask a Transwoman: Rules of engagement for transgender dating By: Lorelei Erisis*/TRT Columnist of my friends in the trans community, personal Panic” defense and often get away with it. So find guys (or maybe ello friends and welcome back to Part 2 preferences and sexual identity play more into practice honesty and do the same things any gals!) who really just of my take on transgender dating. which sites your friend might choose than her other woman would do to protect herself. Let dig the special dif- H I’ve been fighting my way through a gender presentation does. She’s going to en- a friend know where you are. Make first (and ferences a transper- sea of men who “need to be discreet.” Gah! counter much of the same negative attention even second) dates in very public places, espe- son has to offer, It’s just so offensive. I really wish that guys and prejudices on pretty much any site she cially if your date tries to cry “discretion.” and there’s nothing who actually like transgender women would chooses to hang her profile. If you consider yourself a “straight woman” wrong with that, then just grow a pair and admit to it. What I haven’t mentioned much are the and you’re feeling pretty heteronormative or you could try a site Listen up guys: This mantra of discretion many complimentary and friendly emails I’ve even just Midwestern, try eHarmony or Match. like TSDating.com. says nothing else but that it is somehow an received from these sites. For every shameless com. Tell ‘em you’re a heterosexual woman I haven’t tried it, but embarrassing thing to be at- and you’re trans too. And I’ve heard both good tracted to us, that it’s shameful don’t take cyber redirection and bad. Roll the dat- and that transgender women “As transgender women (and men and others), for an answer. Lorelei Erisis ing dice, you know? are OK to have a good time If you’re looking for more So my advice, to with in the dark but not OK to we need to be proud of who and what we are. options, but you’d still like to your friend, Pam from Cali, is this: Tell her to bring home to Mom. Not nice We cannot ever allow ourselves to be pushed around.” keep things a little mainstream, be proud. Be safe, but be true to herself and her at all. then OKCupid is a pretty good own desires. Tell her to go where she wants Having said all that, though, sometimes a hussy, there’s a shy guy (and girl) who tells me place to start. I’ve heard good reviews from a and seek who she wants. And don’t take, “We girl just wants to have a good time. We think how beautiful I am -- in a totally non-sleazy spectrum of lifestyles on this one. I’ve even don’t want your kind here” for an answer. to ourselves, “Maybe I’ll just make an excep- way. She should make her choices based more had some success there myself. Until next time, keep those questions com- tion for this guy. He’s really cute after all …” on who she’s looking for than where she might Maybe, you’re a little bit into kink but not ing and be good to each other! I myself made an exception recently. I met a be accepted. We are trans, but we are women super-hardcore? FetLife just might be the place Slainte! beautiful man online who recognized me from too (and men and others.) for you! It’s like the Facebook of kink sites! my public life. He was sweet, intelligent and If she was kicked off of a site she wanted Trust me though; the “relationship status” op- *Lorelei Erisis is Miss Trans New England hot. And yes, I had a really good time with to use, she should cry foul. Don’t let them tions on this one may remind you of multiple- 2009. She can be contacted at: loreleierisis@ him. He was big and strong enough to toss my get away with it. It’s discrimination, pure and choice tests from grade school! therainbowtimesmass.com. Amazon-self around like I was a rag-doll. simple. If she’s looking for the type of rela- Perhaps you’re really just Sexy. But, he said he needed to be discreet tionship to be found on this site, then who are looking for a quick and dirty, because he was afraid that being seen with me they to say your friend doesn’t fit that particu- good, adult time. Tonight. would negatively affect his professional life in lar paradigm? Like right now. Preferably at the community. As transgender women (and men and others), their place, so you can leave Feh! we need to be proud of who and what we are. afterwards… Then you won’t So yeah, I had a good time, but at the cost of We cannot ever allow ourselves to be pushed go wrong with Craigslist. I do a little bit of my own self-respect. around. We will not be “discreet” and we will however feel the need to strong- Getting back to the question at hand, which not hide ourselves quietly away in the closet ly re-iterate the need for caution opening rant included, is already running two anymore. We are who we are and we have the with this one. But, if sketchy columns in length. The most important advice same needs and desires as anyone. and dangerous are your scene, I can give about transgender online dating is We do need to be careful, though. There are well, maybe you can pick up a not where to go, but what to remember. still horrible things that happen to transgender free toaster on your way to your Yes, Pam from California, there are some people who are simply looking for someone to midnight rendezvous! websites that are more transgender-friendly be with. And finally, if you just want to than others. But based on an informal sampling We are killed by men who use the “Trans go somewhere you’re going to 22 • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Openly gay candidate runs for RI State Senate Big Gay Al Bowling wraps 11th successful season By: Joe Siegel/TRT Corso graduated from Framing- By: Joe Siegel/TRT Reporter Reporter ham State College with a Bachelor’s Big Gay Al’s Bowling Richard Corso is run- degree in Psychology. He works at League wrapped up its 11th ning for the Rhode Is- Butler Hospital in the General Medi- and most successful season land State Senate against cine Research Unit. yet this week. The 32 teams, Incumbent Mary Ellen “I’m a people person. I like work- made up of gays, straights, Goodwin (D), who has ing with different populations and lesbians, and transgenders, helping people who are in need,” news served in the position played to raise money for lo- for 24 years. Corso said. cal organizations, including

d Corso, 39, has lived The state has been struggling with AIDS Project Rhode Island, in Providence with one of the highest unemployment AIDS Care Ocean State, P- his partner for the past rates in the country and a massive FLAG (Parents and Friends decade. budget deficit. Corso wants to elimi- of Lesbians and Gays), and an If elected, he would nate the state’s flat tax, which he Marriage Equality Rhode Is- l become one of handful calls a “miserable failure.” He does land (MERI). of openly gay legisla- Photo: Corso campaign not believe a reduction in the state’s $4,000 has been raised by tors, including House Richard Corso sales tax is needed. the teams this year. In the Photo: Joe Siegel Speaker Gordon Fox Corso also hopes to restore integrity last 10 years, approximately Leo Monteiro, Frank Ferri, Shawn DeOliveira (D-Providence) and Rep. Frank Ferri to state government, which has been rife with $40,000 has been raised. e is e (D-Warwick), whom Corso considers a scandal and corruption. The league plays at Johnston’s Town Hall to participate, since the league is all for fun. “The Ethics Commission needs a lot of work Friends and family members are welcome to

d political role model. Lanes, owned by openly gay state Rep. Frank Corso believes Goodwin is out of and it needs to be reformed,” Corso said. “Too Ferri (D-Warwick). Town Hall Lanes, features come and cheer on their favorite teams. If a player is absent, substitutes are welcome to o touch with her constituents and vows to many things are done behind closed doors in duckpin bowling, and celebrated its 50th an- be more receptive to the residents in the Rhode Island. We need to do a better job at niversary in 2009. Ferri’s family bought the play. h district. shedding light on issues and how things are bowling alley in 1984. The 16-week season began in May and ends “(Goodwin) is largely unresponsive,” done in this state.” This past season, Big Gay Al’s welcomed spe- in August, followed by a barbecue. r Corso said. “I’ve had issues trying to The residents Corso has encountered dur- cial guests, including Lt. Gov. Elizabeth Roberts Trophies are awarded for the top three teams. reach her.” ing his campaign have given him a warm (D), Congressional candidate Betsy Dennigan Individual awards are also presented. There Another factor in Corso’s decision to run was reception. (D), and Providence Mayor David Cicilline (D) are also raffles and giveaways. Goodwin’s lack of support for marriage equal- “Seventy percent of the doors I’ve knocked who met and mingled with the bowlers. The league was started by Leo Monteiro and ity, an issue Corso feels passionately about. on, people are really excited that someone is On a recent night, bowlers received free Manny Rebello, who wanted to create a place “I see it as the leading civil rights issue right running against Mary Ellen”, Corso noted. massages from the staff of Massage Envy, for gays and lesbians to socialize and have fun. now,” Corso said, adding he feels confident a “People are ready for change. We’re stuck in a based in Cranston. Rebello said BGAL is “a place for people to same-sex marriage bill will be passed next year. rut. We need fresh ideas, fresh people.” Ferri said Big Gay Al’s is the largest gay go during the summer”, noting the league was Corso serves on the Board of Directors for In spite of all the problems afflicting the state, bowling league in the country. a “friendly, relaxed atmosphere for GLBTS” Marriage Equality Rhode Island (MERI). He is Corso remains optimistic that the problems can The four-member teams have irreverent to hang out. also a member of Bell Street Chapel, where he be solved. names such as Fruity Cocktails, Fab Four- There were never any plans to have separate has worked on issues including economic jus- “I’m confident we can make a comeback,” some, Sadistic Bitches, and Split Happens. leagues for men and women, explained Mon- tice, civil rights and homelessness. Corso added. One need not be an expert bowler in order teiro. The league started modestly, with only a handful of teams. That number has continued to grow every year. Members come from all Rhode Island to play. There are also players from Massachu- setts and Connecticut. Kitty Litter (Stephen Hartley), a popular drag queen who raises money for AIDS orga- nizations, has been in the league for six years. “I like the camaraderie,” Litter said. Kenneth Sondler, from Warwick, is a mem- ber of Twelve Pins. Sondler enjoys the social aspect of bowling. “It’s a lot of fun,” he said. The cost of bowling is $14 a week. No smoking is allowed in the alley during league season, which appeals to many people who don’t enjoy being exposed to cigarette fumes in bars and clubs. Big Gay Al’s web site – www.bgalbowling. com – includes useful information, such as team rosters, rules, statistics, and notices of upcoming events. follow us ...

twitter.com/ therainbowtimes www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 • 23 The OutField: Rippin’ Gaysurfers.net Gaycons from page 17 Adam Lambert By: Dan Woog* til “some courageous, high-profile dude, ba- On “American Idol” Lambert was endear- ith its chill, sically a pro, comes out and says ‘f--- you ing – likeable even – but flash forward six let-it-all- homophobes.’” months, from the singing competition’s 2009 Whang-out im- An 18-year-old commenter on Gaysurfers. finale to his controversial performance on age – and its show-off- net said that geography has little to do with the American Music Awards, and the SoCal that-bodacious-body attitudes. “Sydney is supposed to host the big- native’s second-place status starts to make beach environment gest community of surfers in the world, and the sense. Between screeching the lyrics to his first – you’d think surfing second biggest gay community after San Fran- post-“Idol” single, “For Your Entertainment” would offer a welcome cisco,” he wrote. – which ultimately failed to resonate with the haven for gay men in “But still no sign of gay surfers. I can’t seem general public – and simulating oral sex with the larger, often homo- to find any.” one of his male dancers on stage [SOURCE: phobic sports world. Thomas said that the U.S. “seems to be the http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstop- Think again. country with the biggest number of gay surf- ics/celebritynews/6636015/American-Mu- When a magazine ar- ers.” Most, he noted, live in very open-minded sic-Awards-Adam-Lambert-outrages-view- Dan Woog ticle implied that rising places like San Francisco, Los Angeles, New ers-with-X-rated-AMA-performance.html], star Cheyne Horan was York and Hawaii. Gay surfers from Hawaii are Lambert came off more showboater than gay, he lost endorsements and friends. “very active on the site and supportive of the showstopper. The verdict? Timing is every- When a top-ranked surfer Robbins Thomp- project.” thing – and the world’s just not ready for a Y- son’s sexuality became known, he heard slurs Several gay European surfers said they had chromed Gaga wannabe who performs faux in the water. On land, his car was vandalized. found little hostility on the shores of their con- fellatio in prime time. And when young surfing sensation Shane tinent. They admitted, however, that they know Dorian was asked what he’d most like to elimi- very few other gay surfers. Steven Slater nate from the world, he responded, “diseases, Australia, by contrast, “has more rural com- Despite conflicting accounts from passen- the Devil, flat spells (and) dykes and fags.” munities of surfers that do experience homopho- gers on what really happened aboard JetBlue Those incidents took place in the 1990s. The bia,” Thomas said. One surfer from Down Un- Airways Flight 1052 – the events that led to situation changed little through the past decade. der refused comment for the DNA story. Most Photo: QSyndicate a grandiose beer-thieving, slide-releasing Adam Lambert Earlier this year, all that changed. gay surfers are still closeted, he said – “espe- tarmac exit – flight attendant Steven Slater’s Just four months after cially the older guys.” fame is still on the rise. Gawker called him a Internet that’s enough to make even the most “Thomas” – a French- “Gay surfers are all hid- hero, Hot Air said he was an inspiration, and seasoned flier afraid of the friendly skies. Se- man who spent seven “Gay surfers are all hiding ing somewhere,” a 26-year- The New York Daily News sympathized with riously, dude is a creeper. The only silver lin- years in Australia, and somewhere,” a 26-year-old old named Alan posted on the steward’s plight [SOURCE: http://news. ing in this case is that maybe he’ll go away as prefers to not divulge named Alan posted on Gaysurfers.net. “I hope yahoo.com/s/yblog_upshot/20100810/bs_ fast as he got here. Fingers crossed. here (too). In my home- his last name – started Gaysurfers.net. ... In my yblog_upshot/rogue-jetblue-flight-attendant- www.gaysurfers.net, town there are at least five being-hailed-as-a-modern-american-work- *Mikey Rox is an award-winning writer/ the site had drawn over hometown there are at least five gay surfers, but they keep ing-class-hero]. But while Slater did what so journalist and the founder of Paper Rox 1,500 members. Most gay surfers, but they keep their their sexuality for them- many had-it-up-to-here employees dream of Scissors, a copywriting and creative consult- came from the U.S., sexuality for themselves. I don’t selves. I don’t know how day in and day out, it’s his smug, I’ll-cut-you- ing company in New York City. He can be Australia and France. to tell them that I am gay. while-you’re-sleeping smile dominating the reached at [email protected]. But it spread rapidly, know how to tell them that I am Maybe they are on here?” and now there is solid gay. Maybe they are on here?” Gay surfers are not the representation from only ones who read and South Africa, the U.K., Spain, Italy, Indonesia, comment on his website. It’s attracting straight South America and India. people, too. They bring a variety of attitudes. Users love the chance to search for other gay “Some don’t understand why gay surfers need surfers, and send private messages. They have their own space,” Thomas said. “Some others created groups and forums. They read surfing do get it, and think it’s a great idea.” articles, and search for movies with “gay” and Perhaps, he added, surfers think their culture “surf” in the title. “expects” them to be homophobic. As they read And they share a growing list of gay-friendly and learn about the gay surfers in their midst, surf spots around the world. they “slowly open up to it.” “I believe there is a surf culture beyond the A heterosexual surfer named Scott wrote on macho young man, and there are things we want the site: “I know sooo few gay surfers. It in- to share with other gay surfers beyond dating,” trigues me. Surfing is for all who appreciate Thomas told Australia’s gay magazine DNA. “I this world.” He offered to help “mediate with a was hoping someone out there would build this straight’s perspective on surfing.” community, but it never happened.” As with most Internet ventures – especially So Thomas did it himself. one dedicated to a sport that puts a premium on His social-networking site has two goals. One looking hot – the talk often turns to sex. is to help gay surfers meet – including those “Quite honestly, I was hoping to see as many deep in the closet. The other is to change pub- near-naked butt shots of guys as I see of girls in lic awareness by spotlighting gay surfers and most surf magazines and website,” wrote one bringing the sport’s homophobia into the bright commenter. sunshine. But, he told Thomas, “thus far, you’ve kept The DNA story tried to explain surfing’s anti- it classy.” gay history. One surfer called the sport “adolescent.” *Dan Woog is a journalist, educator, soccer Teenage boys, he said, “are the least sure of coach, gay activist, and author of the “Jocks” their sexual orientation.” Having perhaps ex- series of books on gay male athletes. Visit his perimented with same-sex activity, they may website at www.danwoog.com. He can be “tilt toward homophobia as a means of denial.” reached care of this publication or at Out- He believes there will be little change un- [email protected]. we’ve reached 5k. meet us now on our fan page! search the rainbow times to join us! The Rainbow Times presents Mardi Gras in New England! The Queer Carnevale Guide 2010 Ad deadline: Aug. 25 • Reserve your space Today! FMI: www.TheRainbowTimesNews.com or 413-282-8881/617-444-9618 24 • Sept. 2, 2010 - Sept. 15, 2010 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com