Year 2, Vol. 20 • March 6 - April 2, 2008 The www.therainbowtimesnews.com F R E E ! Bob Mould hits the road after NY lesbian couple can ainbow imes two-year hiatus divorce T p. R p. 12 17 Your LGBT News in Western MA, the Capital District of NY, Northern CT, & Southern VT 12 Janet J. exclusive! P. 13

WGBY: GAY SCREENING at ACADEMY of MUSIC P. 3

CIVIL UNIONS MAKE SECOND- CLASS STATUS P. 8

10 NEIGHBORHOODS with a GAY VIBE P. 14

TRUE COLORS CELEBRATES 15TH ANNIVERSARY P. 17

TRANSCAMPUS SERIES UNDERWAY AT LOCAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE P. 6 Photo by: Chuando & Frey 2 • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Opinions Thanks to all, especially to my father The Controversial Couch Lie back and listen. Then get up and do something By: Nicole C. Lashomb/TRT Editor-in-Chief just taking baby steps. You have given us your By: Suzan Ambrose*/TRT Columnist shirt off in public in America? s we have become better known in input and have helped us grow. Without you, ’ve been watching the televi- For years women have been fight- the Capital District of NY, we have The Rainbow Times would not be where it is sion show, The Biggest Loser, ing for equality. But when it comes to made some great friends and allies. today. We are eternally grateful to you, and A and I’ve found myself saying what I’ve feeling secure in the right to bare our Not only has the NY expansion been a great we always want you to know that! I been thinking for years—“Do I have to see breasts, we’ve got a long way to go, baby! one, but we are also receiving more requests There are also family members (outside of those man boobs?!” Let’s be clear – I’m not advocating for for The Rainbow Times at more places in my wonderful wife) who have been crucial in Indeed. If you were to block the face of the women to be naked—upper-torso—bare Western Massachusetts, more venues in our success—in my success. In this case, I am contestant weighing in, you’d be hard-pressed when they’re at church (oh Jesus!) or shop- Southern Vermont (like Manchester and referring to my father: Mr. Joe Lashomb (and to know if they were male, if breast size were ping,(apples anyone?) or work—just like you Bennington, we are already in Brattleboro). his dear and loving wife Kathy, whose love your only guide. The men on this show do not wouldn’t expect a man to be either. Respect We want to thank Justin Adkins for his inter- for him is palpable to even a stranger). know shame; otherwise, many would feel for others perspectives instead of just brazen est in The Rainbow Times and for wanting to Through the years I have learned that pride, obligated to keep their shirts on. boldness should be expected in our brave new be a part of it. love, acceptance and care emanate in many Shame has become us, societaly, especially world of the future. We continue to receive photos and videos, different forms—in ways that we expect and if you’re a woman. But mowing your lawn or sunbathing in for the Anniversary Contest and will be nam- in ways that are unpredictable. This month, I Here’s the thing: I’m a complete advocate your backyard or even taking your shirt off ing some winners in the upcoming editions of want to especially thank my dad for his love of a woman’s right to remove her shirt— when it’s 100 degrees out, shouldn’t be a TRT. However, you still have time to submit and support and for always sticking by my crime. In fact, it should be as natural as, well, more photos and videos. We will review them, side, for sacrificing so much when I was girl, and print them, if they are chosen by our pan- and for giving me the courage and strength to And it seems perfectly OK for men to show their nipples out in public— elist of judges. be the best that I could be. Regardless of the I don’t want to go any further without road I’ve traveled or the miles between us, I what’s that all about? So, explain to me, is it nipples that can’t be shown, or free- thanking you, our loyal readers. You have always hear my father’s wise words echoing falling breasts that we have a problem with? And it can’t be only about the size made a difference, for you have cared. You in my mind—“You can do anything if you set have told us that we were needed, as we were your mind to it.” Thanks Dad. of the breast, because, as we are aware in our increasingly obesity-risen times, Read TRT’s Own Trans Column on Page 4 some men have larger breasts than some women!

Love, Rights … and the Luck and Love of the essentially, top freedom. So someone remind taking off your shirt when you’re hot. Just like me—why is it illegal for a woman to take her our brothers, fathers and sons do. Irish: A Special March Edition After all, in America, we’re guaranteed By: JM Sorrell*/TRT Columnist practices. Letters to the Editor equality under the law regardless of sex (that hen I traveled to Ireland in mid- LINC (Lesbians in Cork, would be the M or F kind, not the position one February, it was inexpensive and Ltd.) has its own center and Dear Editor, takes!) And yet we fall short on that one, off-season—or so I thought. activities focused on issues What an amazing cover story and it won the especially when it comes to top freedom. W Academy Award too! Thank you for the work First, Valentine’s Day was a 4-day event in for lesbian and bisexual Ask someone why women can’t take their women—health care, litera- that you do and keep it on! shirts of in public and you’re likely to hear Ireland; it must be the Irish warm-up to St. Joey T. , Amherst, MA cy, coming out, aging, etc. comments like: “Men can’t control them- Patrick’s Day. The usually modest, tastefully J.M. the JP private people embrace the love day. It may Every day in the Irish Dear Editor, selves. help that a saint is attached to it. The package Times and Independent (ala NY Times and I think that the lesbian story on FreeHeld, See Couch on Page 21 although touching, it was quite depressing. I deal was wonderful but the euro now costs NY Post) contained much commentary and coverage of the US national election. How think that The Rainbow Times should focus on $1.40. more happy stories. The Rainbow Times many of us here know who the president of The Irish Times gave prime coverage to the Becca T., Hadley, MA 351 Pleasant St., #322 issue of same-sex marriage, as a love-in was Ireland is? Answer: Mary McAleese. Northampton, MA 01060 scheduled at the capital in Dublin on Most notably, column after column pointed Dear Editor, Are you endorsing any candidates? I see that www.therainbowtimesnews.com Valentine’s Day. The government is poised to to the seriousness of the outcome on a global [email protected] level. A Times editorial called it, “Their you often have Hillary Clinton videos on your put into effect civil partnership rights at the website. Does that mean you endorse her? [email protected] Election, Our World.” Many journalists decry end of March, but LGBT activists are working Brian N., Hartford, CT Phone: 413-204-8959 • Fax: 866-310-8512 Obama as an inexperienced sort with empty hard for full rights nothing short of same-sex Dear Brian, NY: 518-391-2617 marriage. rhetoric and they hugely admire Hillary TRT has not officially endorsed any candidate Publisher Columnists: Activists point to Spain as an example of Clinton. at this time, but we do like Hillary Clinton! Gricel M. Ocasio Dr. Renee Lang how a primarily Catholic-practicing country They do not understand gender politics —The Editor Editor-In-Chief Jennifer Dexter since they are used to female leaders—both Suzan Ambrose can achieve this, and they follow American Dear Editor, Nicole Lashomb their own and throughout Europe. They see Writers: states on this and give much credit to A Trans Pride? I don’t think this is needed, or Distribution Clinton as the consummate world politician, Lindsay Wilson Massachusetts. necessary. Why is there always divisiveness in Ben Peterson There are both young radical groups and they see McCain as more of the same that we our struggles? Why do you support it? Should J.M. Sorrell Sales Associates: more conventional organizations working col- have now, and yet, they also wonder how we leave the “T” out then? Webmaster: SJ Seymour laboratively to move this issue forward. The much any new president can truly change our Candy C., Northampton, MA Jarred Johnson front page article in the Times featured a les- trail of ill will. They are frightened by our Dear Candy, bian couple with two children, who had met influence and hopeful we will cease doing We support our trans community and we sup- The Rainbow Times is published by The Rainbow Times, port the Trans Pride March & Rally. Trans LLC. The articles written by the writers, columnists, and with their Teachta Dala (similar to US Rep) to harm. correspondents express their opinion, and do not repre- Pride is not meant to isolate or separate the ask for support. They were received for a The Irish still give more philanthropically sent the endorsement or opinion of The Rainbow Times, LGBT community, but rather cause awareness meeting but left with little clarity for the TD’s than any other citizens of Europe. They are LLC or its owners. To write letters to the editor, please generous of spirit, engaged as citizens, and of struggles that our trans friends face that send your letters, with your name, address and phone position. It seems the “M” word is a sticking number to: The Rainbow Times (address shown above), incredibly educated in a myriad of ways. I am would otherwise go unmentioned and/or mis- point there, too. understood. We strive to educate and we work or e-mail any comment/s to the editor at: grateful if my Irish half has inherited just a [email protected]. All submissions Meanwhile, the gay men’s community cen- to include all of our community’s struggles. ter in Cork, which I visited, is working most- wee bit of these traits. I do love the craic. will be edited according to space constraints. The —The Editor Rainbow Times, LLC reserves the right not to print any ly to educate men who have sex with men (not Yet the government still caves to the or all content, or advertisements for any reason at all. in the core of the gay community) about safe Catholic old guard, which is out of touch with Dear Editor, TRT is not responsible for advertising content. To sex. AIDS/HIV is a problem for that demo- the wishes and norms of most of its citizens. Nice to know that you change your cover to receive The Rainbow Times at your home via regular Women have to lie about why they are going reflect the community that surrounds you. We mail, or through electronic delivery, please visit our graphic just as it is here, and then, by exten- website. The content and graphics (photos, etc.) are the sion, for those heterosexual wives and part- to England (to get abortions). It is criminal to love The Rainbow Times here! sole property of The Rainbow Times and it cannot be ners who are unaware of the partner’s unsafe See Irish on Page 10 Paul M., Albany, NY reproduced at all without TRT’s consent. www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • 3 More Opinions & News Anyone and Everyone: The parents of gay children Anyone and Everyone, the poignant and the courage and grace of everyday families,” Laurie Leichthammer, WGBY director of tary, see page 11, and visit www.therainbow- often heartbreaking story revealing a family’s and “Eye opening, riveting, wrenching and major and planned giving. timesnews.com to view a short clip of the doc- struggle and desire to accept their child’s sex- inspiring,” was a direct result of the director’s “The LGBT Society is a group of people umentary. ual orientation, will be the subject of a special own personal journey. who believe that WGBY plays a vital role in advanced screening by WGBY in conjunction "It took two years to make the film Anyone our community through its superior television WGBY (www.wgby.org), a community sup- with the Academy of Music in Northampton and Everyone but the path to making it start- programming,” said Leichthammer. “They ported public broadcasting organization, con- Thursday, March 6 at 7 p.m. The event is free ed over ten years ago,” said Susan Polis seek to sustain and expand this role by provid- nects the people of western New England to and open to the public. Schutz, the film’s director. “Right after grad- ing personal financial support to WGBY and events, ideas and each other through national A panel discussion will follow the screening uating from Princeton, my son Jared, told my by garnering the support of others in the gay, PBS programming and locally produced with the documentary’s producer Agnes Chu husband Steve and me that he was gay. Steve lesbian, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) series and specials. With an additional four of New York City, and Ann and Ed Bonetti of and I had always respected gay people, but community.” digital television channels, video on demand, Warwick, RI, one of the families portrayed in when it came to be in our immediate family, The documentary will have its broadcast podcasting and streaming video, WGBY is the film who discuss their journey to accept- we were totally shocked." premiere on WGBY Monday, March 10 at 8 one of the region’s most accessible communi- ance of their gay son. The event will also introduce the newly p.m., and will be rebroadcast Friday, March ty institutions, providing lifelong learning The film which as been called by those who formed LGBT Society an affinity group of 14 at 9 p.m. opportunities for all. have seen it “A rare opportunity to witness WGBY’s Murrow Society, according to For more information about the documen- Kate Bornstein performs to benefit long-time activist Bet Power By: Lindsay Wilson/TRT Reporter to run into a and it goes from there,” he said. “I do it to the first time I’m not working on the lesbian “I enjoy being a girl!” That’s what the client in real have friends. I do it to have people in the cause … now I’m working on my movement “illustrious” Kate Bornstein announced to a life.) room that look like me.” and my community and your support is going group of around 375 people while shimmying Friends and Power said the event has empowered him to to help with that—for me.” around the stage of Smith College’s Weinstein fans from all do even more for the community. For Bornstein, the best part of the night was Auditorium on Friday, February 8th. over New “It really fills my heart and my soul. It’s watching Bet accept the love that is so evident Bornstein, an internationally known author, England came to getting serious out there and I’m at the point for him [from the community].” “It’s so playwright and performance artist read support Power’s where I’m convinced that we need to have a good,” she said. “So often us ‘freaks’ don’t excerpts from her books as part of a benefit in cause. Between transgender rights’ movement in this coun- accept the love that is given to us.” honor of Bet Power. Besides being an activist readings, try,” he said. “I can’t do anything but to in the trans community, Power is the host of Power’s friends devote my whole life to trans … and I’m *Kate Bornstein will perform on stage at the East Coast Female to Male Group and BET POWER walked up to the learning that if I don’t speak for me, who’s the Transgender Pride March on June 7. maintains the Pioneer Valley’s Sexual microphone to going to? And I’m really excited because for Minority Archives out of his home. He is also thank him for his work. “Bet has been a bea- one of the founders of the steering committee con of light for our community, and I know he for the first ever New England Transgender will continue to do so for a long time.” said Pride March and Rally to be held on June 7. Jackie Kelly, who co-founded the Trans Pride Both activists, Power and Bornstein, have steering committee. Power said he hoped that the audience would come away with a new understanding and awareness of people who are gender dif- ferent. “I hope that [the audience] feel positive TRANS PRIDE about trans people and people who are out of the gender norm and that they can see that Kate is a great writer and she’s a successful published author and that she inspires people to feel proud of themselves so I hope that they MARCH & RALLY go away with a sense of pride and happiness about who they are,” he said. “It’s really wonderful to know that not only my work is being supported, but that we are making this event happen for trans culture, to bring trans culture to Smith College and to DATE: JUNE 7, 2008 this area and to have people see it and experi- ence it is really a very positive thing,” said KATE BORNSTEIN Power. Proceeds from the event will go towards TIME: 11 A.M. TO ASSEMBLE been friends since the 90s when they met in Power’s rent on the house that houses the Boston, and have continued to stay in touch archives (Power was recently in an accident over the years. after saving an animal on the bike trail), the 12 P.M. STEP OFF Wearing a bustier, fishnets and riding boots, Transgender Pride March and Rally, materials along with a top hat and tails Bornstein for the sexual minority archives, and the East described what it was like to grow up on the Coast F2M group. Jersey shore in an Orthodox Jewish family Power describes the East Coast F2M group and reflected on her experience with the as his “community.” “I really do it for myself WHERE: LAMPRON PARK/BRIDGE Church of Scientology— something she described as being “a lot more embarrassing Remember, than saying I’m a f*$%#@* tranny.” STREET SCHOOL Bornstein delighted the audience with stories you saw it involving her eight grade English teacher’s TRT use of pronouns and of her job as a phone sex Don’t miss this historic New England March and Rally! operator named Stormy (and what it was like here first! 4 • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com In ‘The Name of God’ Anti-gay church pickets service for Reno victim of serial rapist By: Martin Griffith/AP Writer ing, “Go Back to Kansas” and waving plac- On Saturday night, more than a dozen uni- Inside, Denison was eulogized as a loving, RENO, Nev. (AP)—A small group from a ards reading “Let Friends Mourn in Peace.” formed officers strived to keep an estimated caring woman with many friends and a win- Kansas-based church that protests at the Inside, more than 3,000 people attended the 150 to 200 counter-demonstrators separated ning personality. funerals of U.S. soldiers faced off recently service for Brianna Denison, 19, who police from the three anti-gay protesters, Lange said. Denison was a student at Santa Barbara against more than 150 counter-demonstrators said was abducted Jan. 20 and killed by a seri- Police barred a reporter from approaching City College in California. She was visiting outside a memorial service for a Reno woman al rapist linked to two earlier attacks on the the church members, citing safety concerns. her hometown over winter break and was last killed by a serial rapist. edge of the University of Nevada, Reno. Her A call to the church resulted in a recording seen sleeping on a couch at a friend's rental The tense confrontation during a fierce body was found in a Reno field on Feb. 15. that said no one was available. house just off the Reno campus. snowstorm ended peacefully when three Members of the church picket military Counter-demonstrators said they strongly “She constantly amazed me how she could female anti-gay protesters associated with the funerals out of a belief that the war in Iraq is disapprove of the church's message and tactic embrace all kinds of people,” said her close Westboro Baptist Church of Topeka, Kan., a punishment for the nation's tolerance of of picketing outside memorial services. friend, Danielle DeTomaso. “She knew peo- were escorted away from the Reno-Sparks homosexuality. “You call yourself a church. You're a hate ple from all walks of life. She was the glue Convention Center in a police van, Reno Last month, the church announced it would group,” yelled Sarah Dutton of Reno. “Move that held all of us together.” police Sgt. Chris Lange said. protest the service for Denison because they out of America if you hate it so much.” Denison's cousin, Spencer Terry, said her “There were a couple of eggs thrown at think God hates Reno, as well as gay people Greg Bailor Jr. of Reno agreed: “For them spirit would continue to live in the hearts of them and that's about it,” Lange said. and America's tolerance of them. to come out and target tragedies like this, I friends and family. Counter-demonstrators surrounded the Church officials said they targeted Reno don't think it's right. There's enough emotions “Could anybody have asked for a prettier three church members after the latter waved because local law enforcement officers failed as it is.” face and a more beautiful soul? I don't think placards reading “Pray for More Dead Kids,” to protect three church members who picket- Counter-demonstrators included local so,” Terry said. “Don't Worship the Dead” and “God Sent the ed a Jan. 26 memorial service in Reno for church members as well as members of the Denison’s aunt, Lauren Denison, reminded Killer.” staff Sgt. Sean Gaul, who was killed in Iraq on Patriot Guard, a group of motorcycle enthusi- the crowd that “we still have a job to do: bring Counter-demonstrators responded by chant- Jan. 9. asts who support fallen soldiers. Brianna's killer to justice.” Struggles & Darkness: Educating about trans issues from my experience By: Deja Nicole Greenlaw/TRT Columnist other gender but if some of us don't transition like myself. Slowly I female. Oh, people still occasionally refer to id you ever wonder what it would at this point, well, I'll just say then at that began to realize that me as "Mark" and I do get the icky pronouns be like to change genders? To actu- point we simply cannot live. I was not alone in the now and then....but still I am presenting as a Dally stop living as one gender and I, like so many of my Trans brothers and world. female, not a male, every single second of my change to the other gender? It would be out of sisters, have dealt with the struggles and the Then I started life! the question for most folks. To even think darkness. I held it in for decades but then going to LGBT func- It is so nice to wake up every morning and about it would be hard for others. Well, when 9/11/2001 hit. It was right then that I knew tions and nightclubs actually like myself. Yes, every morning I you are Transgender these thoughts and sce- that I had to move on my issues with and I started to really have a smile on my face as I get ready for narios are very real. It's not easy to deal with Transgenderism. Remember that ominous get to know Gays work. Even Mondays aren't that bad! I sud- this, the confusion, the shame, the guilt, etc. feeling of those days? That anytime, any- and Lesbians. This denly feel very confident lately and I almost But then some of us reach a point in our lives where some religious fanatic could take you whole "invisible" feel like I could take on the whole world! I DEJA NICOLE GREENLAW where we just can't take it anymore and we out of the picture forever? You just might go culture that I used to still have a long way to go and there is so have to change genders in order to exist. It's to your grave with unresolved issues. It quick- hear about suddenly was my new culture. I much to learn in my "new" life. And I have so hard to describe this incredible, tremendously ly got me thinking that I'd better get to work! made friends and started feeling better about many people to teach about what a driving force that makes us transition to the Talk about being scared straight to self actual- myself. I started understanding about myself. Transgender is. ization! I started accepting myself. Finally last year I One of the biggest things in dealing with So I went to a started taking steps to transition from male to transitioning from one gender to another is therapist. He female. being able to deal with any response you get really new noth- I've been taking hormones for a year now to from anybody at any time. You just never ing of Trans help change my body from male to female quite know what someone is going to say issues. I knew and I went "full time" as in living as a female when they realize that you are Transgender more about me last Thanksgiving. I admit that sometimes I and you have to be able to deal with it. than he did. So still haven't digested it all. It's been so crazy People at work actually have to be civil to then I went to the past 12 months that it all seems like a me. There are rules and codes of conduct that the local dream sometimes, but then again, it is truly a are followed in the workplace. My coworkers Transgender dream that actually did come true! are pretty good with me. Most of the women support groups Yes, I did it! I crossed the gender line and are very supportive. It's so nice to see them to meet folks I'm still existing! I am living every day as a smile! See Trans on Page 10

EN STREET C GRE AFÉ 64 Green Sreet Northampton, Massachusetts 01060 413-586-5650 Hours of Service Wine & Cheese Bar: Every night from 5 p.m. Lunch: Monday-Friday, 12-2 p.m. Dinner: Every night from 5 p.m. Sunday Brunch: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Private dining rooms available for parties of 8 to 50 guests. www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • 5 Featured Business Northampton’s Pride & Joy: Niche store in a niche town

By: Nicole C. Lashomb/TRT Editor-in-Chief find the right mix [of merchandise] that Thriving as an LGBT hotspot since 1992, appeals to women, men, trans folks, younger Northampton’s Pride & Joy, an LGBT gift [customers], older [customers] and everyone shop and book store, continues to serve as a in between!” Western Massachusetts community resource In 2003, Carmien and husband, Steve center, according to its current co-owner. Lucas, purchased the store from Pride & Joy’s “We understand and embrace our role as the pioneer, Martha Nelson, who previously "de-facto" community center, and have dedi- owned the operation since 1992. Pride & Joy cated over 250 square feet of space for free celebrated its 16th Anniversary this February. newspapers, brochures, and a community bul- Carmien reflected on what Pride & Joy has letin board for non-profit new and events,” brought to him personally and professionally. said Mark Carmien, Co-owner, “I've made a lot of new friends through the Northampton’s Pride & Joy, Northampton, store, and met some amazing people,” he said. Mass. “We also maintain a business card book “I've also gotten to know a lot of other down- for local LGBT-friendly businesses, and a town business owners and have learned a housing book for those looking for housing or great deal about running a small business. I for a roommate.” am starting up my real estate business, and Carmien said that he always wanted to help I'm always meeting people in the store who organize and energize the local LGBT com- need an agent!” munity. Carmien said that Northampton’s Pride & “We've brought in more ‘peace and justice’ Joy will be going strong into the future, with items, and more gift items in general,” said a prominent website presence and a wider Carmien. “Our t-shirt selection has gone from selection of items around the general theme of 15 styles to over 50 styles, and we've expand- peace and social justice. ed the adult toys selection as well.” “We're one of only three LGBT book and Although offering a wide selection of mer- Mark Carmien, owner, and Martha Nelson, founder, cut the brithday cake at Pride & Joy's gift stores left in New England!” said chandise such as books, CDs, DVDs for sale Sweet 16 celebration on Feb 16, 2008. Photo courtesy of Pride & Joy Carmien. “But, we're a niche store in a niche and rent, jewelry, t-shirts, gifts, cards, but- town, which is a good business plan.” tons/stickers/magnets, magazines, and sex challenge related to his retail business. our community vary greatly,” said Carmien. For more information or to shop online at toys, Carmien said that there is a specific “The retail trends for the various parts of “With limited floor space, it’s a challenge to Pride & Joy, visit www.nohoprideandjoy.com. 6 • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Queer News Impact TransCampus Series underway at local community college By: Nicole Lashomb/TRT Editor-in-Chief TransCampus series into action.” TransCampus, a poignant transgender edu- According to T-Petti, transgender issues are cational series is underway at Holyoke HIGHLIGHTS from TRANS 101 similar and dissimilar to the needs of the Community College in an attempt to create a One of the most important messages of Trans • A transgender man (FTM) may engage in rela- widespread LGBT community. In a recent safe, inclusive campus climate, regardless of 101 is to recognize each individual’s right to self tionships with other transgender or even biolog- article written by Petti submitted to The gender identity or expression, according to identify and recognize the distinction between ical men and identify as a gay male. Republican, published on February 13, the TransCampus founder at HCC. TransCampus will provide an introduction to sexual orientation on gender identity. • Another transgender or transsexual man may “TransCampus began at HCC with a discus- transgender terminology and models of gen- • A Transsexual woman (MTF), for example, refuse the FTM label, reasoning that even sion on whether or not, as a campus, we were der identity, explore the effects of meeting the needs of trans staff and students,” may present and identify very strongly as though he may have been born with a vagina, Transphobia, and highlight the ways in which said T-Petti, Founder, TransCampus Series female but may or may not choose or desire to he has always been male and therefore identi- various facets of identity, such as race, class, and Community Resource Liaison for the medically transition through hormone replace- fies as MTM. and gender, intersect to form our opinions and Massachusetts Campus Compact ment therapy or SRS (sex reassignment sur- • Other terms that fall under the trans umbrella shape society. AmeriCorps*VISTA program., Holyoke gery). are two-spirit—a native American term for “When Trans identity is not represented Community College, Holyoke, Mass. . “We • A genderqueer youth may identify as neither someone who embodies the masculine and the within our social, cultural, and institutional quickly realized that there was a gap in our male or female, both, or somewhere in between. feminine or adopts the gender roles of the oppo- systems, it creates barriers to personal, eco- knowledge about Trans identity and commu- They may choose to present exclusively as one site biological sex , gender variant, cross nomic, and academic success,” said Petti. “It nity issues, campus policies that affect Trans gender, vary their presentation, or present dressers, drag kings/queens, and persons who limits access to healthcare, education, social people, and the presence of Trans staff and androgynously. May identify as FTX for exam- are intersex—born with genitalia or reproductive services and community resources meaning students at HCC. What started as a casual ple—born female, and now identifies as neither organs that are not considered medically “stan- that until Trans identity becomes fully recog- conversation between colleagues quickly or both genders dard” .It is important to note that people in some nized and visible; Trans people will continue brought key players to the table for more of these categories may NOT choose to identify to be marginalized within our society.” meaningful and in depth discussions of trans- • Because sexual orientation and gender identi- Since TransCampus’ commencement, sup- ty are distinct transgender people, like anyone as trans, but could fall under the trans umbrella gender issues. From those discussions, a IF they choose to do so. port has been displayed by the student com- TransCampus committee was formed and we else, may identify as straight, gay, lesbian, bi- munity and the general population at large. began to put the outline I proposed for a sexual, pansexual, or asexual. *Information provided by T-Petti, HCC See TransCampus on p. 7 The Women’s Fund: Winter Gala success & grants for many By: Nicole C. Lashomb/TRT Editor-in-Chief [We] started giving it to women and girls as go by, by being able to raise more awareness Center, Elements Hot Tub Spa, Food for soon as we could.” of our contingency within the women’s com- Thought Books, Chez Albert, Zanna, The Last month, the The Women’s Fund of According to Oleska, The Women’s Fund is munity,” said Kristen Breder, For the Love of Highlands Inn, and Olivia Cruise lines. Western Massachusetts, a public foundation committed to three primary concepts in their Women Committee Member, The Women’s Sponsors of this year’s Winter Gala includ- dedicated to the betterment of women and grant program; education, access, and suc- Fund of Western Massachusetts. ed Northwestern Mutual Financial Network, girls, held it’s annual For the Love of Women cess; economic justice; and freedom from vio- This year’s Winter Gala was held at The Olivia, The Women’s Times, Fran Johnson’s Winter Gala, 10 years after its first grant com- lence. Clarion Hotel, Northampton, Mass. Golf & Tennis, TalentFusion, Bank of Western mencement in 1998, according to the “This [the Gala] started as a smaller event- “Our venue was different this year, we real- Massachusetts, Integrity Development & Executive Director of The Women’s Fund. just a nice event for lesbians and women to ly wanted [a separate] ambiance/quiet talking Construction Inc., MicroTek, Inc., “We have given over $1 million in grants,” come together around Valentine’s Day. Now room and I think we’ve succeeded this year,” ChangingCourse.com, said Carla Oleska, Executive Director, The that we have gotten older [and] made more said Dawn Reesman, Chair of the Steering ImposterSyndrome.com, Hart & Patterson Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts. “It money, we can support this [larger] type of Committee, The Women’s Fund of Western Financial Services, Kraus-Fitch Architects, [The Women’s Fund] started in 1997, and we event. We’d like this to be the number one Massachusetts Inc., Warm Welcome Birth Services, Oh My! started giving away grants in 1998. [We] did- fundraiser for the Women’s Fund as the years In addition to gourmet food and desserts “This is an amazing achievement in this n’t wait for the money to build an endowment. and tunes spun by local DJ Thonsey, raffle geographic area, in these four counties of tickets and prizes were also offered to the Western Massachusetts,” said Oleska. THE HONORABLE attendees. Prizes included services and mer- For more information about The Women’s J. MARY SORRELL chandise provided by Avanti Skin Center of Fund or to find out how you can get involved, ] Springfield, Studio SMC/photography by visit www.womensfund.net or call 413-529- A MEMBER OF OUR TRIBE JM the JP Sandra Costello, Amherst Cinema Arts 0087. www.therainbowtimesnews.com Are you LUCKY in Love? Do you want more than ...... a furry pug creature? If the Irish still use the term “lucky,” anyone can! Propose. Call me. Get married.

If you are not too long, I will wait here for you all my life—Oscar Wilde

Don’t wait forever. My commitment is to serve each couple’s needs and preferences. —Peace and Blessings, JM 413.427.4153 • email: [email protected]

JUSTICE LGBTQ OF COUPLES THE PEACE SERVING 413.427.4153 • email: [email protected] www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • 7 Queer News Impact AIDS Care Volunteer training planned Grey’s Anatomy Star joins GLAAD program Court Cline, Volunteer Coordinator for uncertain future all leave many with ongoing Los Angeles, CA—The Gay & Lesbian person to share this message of support. AIDS CARE/ Hampshire County, will hold a needs for support. You can help by driving Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) The fact that she delivers this positive mes- volunteer training on Saturday, March 8th at someone to a doctor’s appointment, helping released today a public service announce- sage in Spanish will help many people the AIDS CARE offices, 10 Main St. in out in our organic garden, or listening to ment (PSA) featuring Grey's Anatomy star understand how words can hurt the gay and Florence. Volunteers are especially needed someone talk about the frustrations of living Sara Ramirez as part of its "Be an Ally & a transgender people around them," says for the “Bridge” program that helps people with this chronic illness. Friend" campaign. The 30-second Spanish- GLAAD's Director of Spanish Language living with HIV/AIDS with transportation to In addition to the personal satisfaction you language spot is premiering on Terra.com Media, Monica Trasandes. medical appointments. It only takes 2-4 hours get from helping someone in your communi- (http://www.terra.com), the largest Internet GLAAD's "Be an Ally & a Friend" PSA a week to make a real difference in the life of ty, studies have shown that volunteering is access provider in Spain and Latin campaign features 22 public figures from someone living with HIV. actually good for you by helping to reduce America. television, film and sports. The spots Despite much of the good news about AIDS stress. Anyone interested in being an AIDS In the PSA, the Tony Award-winning, encourage people to be allies to lesbian, treatment these days, people living with HIV CARE volunteer should contact Court Cline Mazatlan-born actress encourages viewers gay, bisexual and transgender people, disease continue to need compassion & sup- at 586-8288, x2 as soon as possible to begin to treat others with dignity and respect directing viewers to resources at glaad.org. port in facing this stigmatized & misunder- the application process. Pre-screening is regardless of sexual orientation and gender GLAAD is releasing a new 20- or 30-sec- stood illness. Although the treatment options required. identity or expression. The new PSA can be ond version of the PSA approximately have widened as they have for cancer, the iso- AIDS CARE/Hampshire County is a pro- viewed at www.glaad.org. every two weeks to be aired through broad- lation, emotional ups and downs, and an gram of Cooley Dickinson Hospital. "Sara’s beloved by millions of Grey’s cast Anatomy fans, which makes her a terrific See GLAAD on p. 12 From TransCampus on p. 6 acquainted with have taught me so much Coordinator and attendee of TransCampus, communities, it is crucial that we advocate “The largest audience at a campus wide about what I often take for granted around Holyoke Community College, Holyoke Mass. ways in which our social circles and defining event was approximately 55—about 40 of gender normative privilege. My assumptions, ”Too often people are marginalized due to institutions can become more safe and inclu- which were students,” said Petti. myths and stereotypes have been stretched identity, because people fear what they don't sive for all people, regardless of sexual orien- To Kathleen Keough, Senior Academic and continue to be stretched.” know. Honest communication, good informa- tation, gender identity or gender expression. Counselor and TransCampus Committee Participants in TransCampus seminars have tion and willing spirits can shape a more This requires an assessment of our personal Member, HCC, TransCampus has made a sig- taken away a broader sense of understanding inclusive world.” views, cultural values, and institutional poli- nificant impact. of the issues that affect the Trans community According to Petti, work exists far beyond cies and procedures that affect transgender “My awareness of transgender issues has at large. educating others in order to create a truly people.” increased as well as learning Trans terminolo- “I learned that the trans experience is very inclusive society. For more information about TransCampus, gy, strategies for how to be an ally, transgen- diverse, that the trans community is finding “Education lies dormant without the action to attend their next session, to schedule an der Etiquette and ways in which our campus its voice, that language is flexible, that most to follow,” said Petti. “Therefore, while LGBTQ training for your organization, or to can become more trans-inclusive,” said of the trans information we get in the general increased awareness and education on trans- attend or participate at the upcoming Justice Keough. “Most importantly, the transgen- world is flawed, and that oppression is gender issues are necessary, we must also rec- Slam on April 16th, please contact T- Petti, at dered students I have met and become oppression, however it's manifest,” said ognize the need to move beyond a mere intel- 413-552-2511 or [email protected]. Vivian Ostrowski, Student Activities lectual understanding. As individuals and 8 • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Queer News Gay Marriage: Report says civil unions make ‘second-class status’ By Geoff Mulvihill/Associated Press Writer ers to vote to allow gay marriage. Gov. Jon S. Some social conservatives have said that MOUNT LAUREL, N.J. (AP)—A commis- Corzine has said he would be willing to sign the commission is slanted in favor of allowing sion established to study same-sex civil such a bill into law—but doesn’t want the gay marriage. The commission’s 12 members unions in New Jersey has found in its first issue to be taken up before the presidential included four appointed by the governor and report that civil unions create a “second-class election. two each appointed by the president of the status” for gay couples rather than giving The activists say that civil unions, in prac- state Senate and the speaker of the state them equality. tice, do not offer the legal protections that Assembly. Among those public members are The report stops short of recommending marriage does. The commission largely some of New Jersey’s more prominent gay that the state allow gay marriage. But it does agreed with them. rights advocates. find that gay couples in Massachusetts, the The commission held three public hearings The other six members represent state gov- only state that now allows gay marriage, do last year where the majority of the testimony ernment departments, such as the Office of not experience some of the legal complica- came from people who were in civil unions the Attorney General and the Department of tions that those in New Jersey do. and said they were still not being treated the Banking and Insurance. The Associated Press has obtained a copy of way married couples are by government agen- Opponents of gay marriage have been push- the initial report, which was scheduled to be cies, employers and others. ing back in New Jersey. Roman Catholic made public on Tuesday, the one-year For instance, the commission finds that churches around the state have been planning anniversary of the state’s first civil unions. many companies in the state that are self- special prayers on marriage for Sunday. A State lawmakers made New Jersey the third insured, and therefore are regulated by feder- major aim is to promote marriage as being state to offer civil unions with a law adopted al rather than state law, refuse to provide between only a man and a woman. in 2006 in reaction to a state Supreme Court health insurance to the partners of their standing of civil unions makes it more diffi- A conservative Princeton-based group, the ruling that year that found gay couples were employees. cult for a child to grow up in New Jersey with National Organization for Marriage, has aired entitled to the same legal protections as mar- While employers in Massachusetts could gay parents, or to be gay themselves. radio commercials that say allowing gay mar- ried couples. legally do the same thing, most do not, Through Jan. 19, 2,329 couples had riage would undermine some religious teach- The civil union law sought to give gay cou- according to the report. received civil union licenses, according to the ings that homosexuality is wrong. ples those benefits—but not the title of mar- The commission also finds that many peo- state Health and Senior Services Department. riage. As a part of the same law, the review ple in the state do not understand civil unions. commission was created to look into whether “Civil union status is not clear to the general it was working. public,” the report says, “which creates a sec- Christian protesters fined for disrupting Gay rights advocates say the civil unions do ond-class status.” New York gay pride event not deliver and have pledged to push lawmak- The commission’s report says the misunder- ELMIRA, N.Y. (AP)—Four Christian pro- testers who disrupted a gay pride festival in Elmira have been convicted of disorderly conduct. Julian Raven, Maurice Kienenberger, Gloria Raven and Walter Quick testified they went to share their religious views at the Southern Tier Gay Pride Festival in a city park on June 23. Wearing red T-shirts with the slogans ``Liberated from Sin'' and ``By the Blood of Jesus,'' they were arrested for lying down in front of the stage after police ordered them to stay in a corner of the park. A defense lawyer argued the arrests violat- ed free speech rights, but a judge agreed with Friday to pay $100 fines and $95 in costs. prosecutors that their actions threatened pub- An appeal is planned. lic order. This information comes from the Star- The Elmira residents were sentenced Gazette and can be found online at the site: www.stargazette.com. www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • 9 10 • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Queer Health News & More Safe Sex: A way to avoid unwanted consequences happening a lot in the youth population. If ship, provide protection opinion about the situation. You may also try By: Dr. Renee Lang*/TRT Health Columnist you’re having sex you’re at risk for an STI. until both partners test imaging what you would say to your friend if racticing safe sex applies to anyone of Maybe you’ve gotten away without an infec- negative for STIs. they told you the same story. What advice any age. tion thus far, but Additionally, if either would you give that person? Then think PRecent sta- statistically speak- partner experiences an about listening to your own advice. tistics indicate that How to practice Safe Sex: 1. Always use a latex condom or dental dam with vagi- ing, you’ll get an outbreak of Herpes, Symptoms of STIs vary but include the rates of sexually STI at some point genital warts, or other presence of warts or painful sores on the lips transmitted infec- nal, oral, or anal sex. Make sure it’s not expired. 2. Use lubricant to decrease condom breakage. Always if you continue to infection, resume safe and genitals, foul smelling discharge from the tions (STIs) practice unsafe sex practices until the vagina or penis, itchiness and/or burning of increased in youth use a water-based lubricant (KY Jelly, Astroglide, Aqua Lube, Wet, Foreplay, or Probe) because oil can break- sex. Maybe you infection clears. the genitals, burning with urination (men), over the last 20 DR. RENEE LANG down the latex. don’t know that If you feel old enough vaginal bleeding (not menstrual), painful years. Genital her- 3. Only use a condom once and then throw it away. you’re already to have sex, you’re old enough to talk about it. intercourse, and pelvic pain. Hepatitis B pes occurs five 4. When pulling out, hold on the condom so that it does- infected. Some Before swapping fluids with another person, symptoms include fatigue, dark urine, light times more fre- n’t fall off and expose your partner to semen. infections present talk to them about their previous sexual part- stools, abdominal pain, and nausea and vom- quently now in ado- 5. Change the condom before inserting a toy or penis, without symp- ners and experiences. If you feel uncomfort- iting. HIV symptoms include vaginal yeast lescents than two into a different person or from anus to vagina. toms. You need to able discussing sex and STI risks practice infections, unexplained weight loss, night decades ago. 6. Use a condom in oral sex because small cuts in the get tested to know having the conversation with a friend or safe sweats or fevers, flu-like symptoms, diarrhea, Chlamydia infection mouth or throat may provide allow an STI (HIV, Hep B for sure. family member. fatigue, headaches, and mental disorders. mainly affects those esp.) access to the bloodstream. Couples in long- If your current partner doesn’t want to talk HPV symptoms may present as an abnormal aged 15-24years old 7. Limit the number of sexual partners. term monogamous about their past, ask them to get tested. If pap smear so get one every year especially if and the highest rates 8. Get tested- both of you. relationships may they resist getting tested, it’s time to rethink you have multiple partners. of gonorrhea occur 9. Talk to your partner about sex and STIs. also benefit from your decision about getting sexually involved If you experience any of the above symp- in 15-19 year old 10.Avoid the use of drugs or alcohol in conjunction with regular testing; with someone who doesn’t respect your toms especially after beginning a new rela- women and 2-24 sex. yearly or every health choices. Sometimes a person uses tionship, GO GET TESTED! Go to your reg- year old men. Rates 11. No means “No” and being passed out doesn’t mean two years. anger, fear or other manipulative tactics to ular doctor, to the local free clinic, or the local of Chlamydia, gon- “Yes”. Unfortunately, encourage another person to have sex with Planned Parenthood but GET TESTED. If orrhea, and syphilis 12. Pay attention to symptoms and get treated quickly. sometimes one them. If you feel pressured to have sex or left untreated, some of the STIs cause long- increased for gay 13. Set your limits ahead of time and then stick to them. partner engages in unsafe sex by another person you may be term effects including liver damage, infertili- and bisexual men 14. Remember that you deserve to be healthy and to sex with someone experiencing sexual abuse. ty, neurological problems, cancer (HPV), and over the last year. stay healthy. outside the rela- Talk to your doctor, counselor, friend or in the case of HIV, death. Clearly these tionship and doesn’t inform their partner. safe family member about what’s going on. increasing numbers indicate that unsafe sex is Safe sex practices, at any stage of a relation- They may be able to provide an objective Trans from page 4 And then there are the "Whatever!" points of Anyway, I am happy with where I've gone I hope that I showed you a glimpse of my Oh, I would get smiles before when I was view. It really is a trip just dealing with all in the past year and where I am now. I consid- interpretation of what it's like to be a man but not like these smiles that I now get these varied points of view. er myself a successful transition and I feel Transgender. As one of my philosophical from women. It's a wonderful, heartfelt smile But, in the family is a different story! My good about it. Where I will go this year is a heroes, Kermit the Frog, says "It aint' easy of sharing and accepting, not just a cursory Mom is finally cool with me, but she still has question and a mystery and there will be some being green!" But, it's not a boring life! "Good morning, yadda yadda" greeting. a hard time saying "Deja." That will take time, surprises, I'm sure. Some men have some trouble in dealing I know. Irish from page 2 with me. Oh, they are nice and respectful but One of my sons is having a hard time with advise an abortion, and there are family plan- in need—with good humor and the constitu- I just don't get the warm, accepting smiles me, the other is getting used to me, and my ning centers where brave women do what tion to carry on. that I get from the women. The vibes just daughter is cool with me. You never usually they can to support women with unwanted Jennifer Mary aren't there. Other men are cool with me and get 100% support from your family. That's the pregnancies. If you talk to your doctor in Could be from Kerry they really no problem with dealing with me. way it is when you are Trans. Ireland about considering an abortion, s/he She could be from Cork has to turn in this information to the govern- Or just from the Stork Queer Cinema You Can’t Miss! ment. Such is the life of a fairy Let’s celebrate Women’s History Month and Marriage Makes a Word of Difference man crumble, later attempts to "cure" her son's St. Patrick’s Day by supporting the women of J.M. Sorrell is her known name (Lesbian & Gay) homosexuality with tragic results. Savage Grace Genre: Documentary; Rating: Not yet rated marks director Tom Kalin's return to Sundance 16 Ireland, the lovers in Ireland, the LGBT McLaughlin by birth is of no fame Distribution: Limited Release years after his first feature, Swoon, helped define activists, and the country that continues to She isn’t from Limerick Director: Fran Rzeznik "New Queer Cinema. save civilization while remaining unique, Nor is Sydney her Sidekick inconsistent as hell, and willing to help those The Pug knows these rhymes are so lame. Status: currently only scheduled for screenings in Almost Myself (TRANS) Connecticut Genre: Documentary; Rating: Not yet rated Release Date: 02/08/08 Distribution: Limited Release Synopsis: Emmy award-winning Fran Rzeznik is Finding You the RIGHT One, Not Just Anyone Director: Tom Murray behind this film that portrays the personal strug- gles and political challenges of Connecticut’s Release Date: 00/00/00 same-sex couples (and their families) who are Notes: Premiered at 2006 Newfest fighting for the freedom to marry. Synopsis: Director Tom Murry explores the lives We understand ... of a group of diverse MTFs in this documentary. • It’s hard to meet the right Savage Grace (Gay) person. Genre: Drama Rating: Not yet rated; Distribution: Wide Release Beyond Conception: Men Having Babies • You are busy and want • Personal, Discreet, Distributor: IFC Films (Lesbian & Gay) matches chosen just for you. Genre: Documentary; Rating: Not yet rated Respectful Starring: Julianne Moore, Eddie Redmayne, Lanie & Bud, Company Founders • You might not want to meet Distribution: Limited Release Stephen Dillane • People are who they say they “We met through a dating service.” someone in a bar or at work. Director: Johnny Symons are ... Release Date: 05/00/08 Release Date: 00/00/00 • You don’t want your personal Notes: Premiered at 2008 Sundance Film • We welcome Singles of all Synopsis: Director Johnny Symons follows sev- info for all to see on the Festival Lifestyles eral gay and lesbian couples who wish to have Internet. Synopsis: Based on true events, this film tells the • An affordable service children with the help of technology. story of unabashed social climber Barbara Daly, who, after watching her marriage to a wealthy (413) 665-3218 • massmatch.com • [email protected] www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • 11 12 • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Q-lebrities Walking the ‘Line’: Veteran virtuoso Bob Mould hits the road after two-year hiatus By: Michael A. Knipp/TRT Special how he’s spent his time since he last took to record company to attract people’s attention. I Like a phoenix that rises from its own frag- the road; and why he’ll never reignite old hope my "form" has expanded over the years. ile ashes, seminal artist Bob Mould has con- flames. Guitar-based composition is the core compo- sistently resurrected himself over the past 20 Which, as Mould alludes, has something to nent of my entire body of work, and the new years. do with getting burned. album is heavy on the core work, so maybe In the late 1980s, Mould emerged from the MICHAEL A. KNIPP: A lot of people that is what the company bio is trying to high- shadow of his hardcore band Hüsker Dü’s know you from your days with Hüsker Dü light. drug-induced downfall to form Sugar, the and Sugar, but what they might not know is MK: You describe the album as emotional acclaimed mid-90s alternative outfit responsi- that a few years ago you took a break from and mature, while Billboard magazine says ble for the dense, hypnotic Copper Blue, music and joined World Championship it’s filled with “pop songs.” Is the mag accu- which Spin magazine ranked in 1992 as one Wrestling as a scriptwriter. Why such a dras- rate in its description? its top 20 albums of the year. But after Sugar tic departure? BM: I think so! dissolved toward the middle of that decade, BOB MOULD: I have been a long-time MK: You begin touring in support of Mould began to branch out and busy himself pro wrestling fan, starting in my childhood. I District Line this month, but it’s been nearly with a number of eclectic projects. Relying on had friends who worked in the business, and two years since you last toured, when your his own genius, the renaissance rocker – who for years they casually asked me for ideas. In live DVD, Circle of Friends, was released. arguably paved the way for the likes of 1999 I was offered the chance to join on as For those who caught that tour, how will this Nirvana and Pearl Jam—set out on his own, part of the creative team. It was a once in a show stand alone? creating LoudBomb, a solo effort formed lifetime opportunity, and the hardest work I BM: The upcoming band tour will be a con- from an anagram of his name; jump starting a have ever done in my life. tinuation of what was documented on Circle BOB MOULD gay dance event known as Blowoff; and serv- MK: After creative differences with the of Friends. Guitar, bass, keyboards, drums. ing, however briefly, as scriptwriter with company, you returned to music. After so called Blowoff. For people far from the D.C. No-frills presentation. Songs from all periods World Championship Wrestling. many years, and so many diverse projects, area, what’s Blowoff all about? of my career. Despite two decades of well-publicized pro- what keeps interested? BM: It’s a monthly dance party held at the MK: Finally, reunions are inevitably – espe- fessional and personal turmoil, and myriad BM: It’s what I enjoy best. It is my life's 9:30 Club, which is a live concert venue. We cially if you’re still relevant and have a bank- manifestations of his talent, though, Mould work. play lo-fi, indie rock, house, progressive able following. And that’s not to mention that returns this year to his primary passion: push- MK: When I think of you, it’s hard not to house, and electro. Our crowd is mainly 30- to everyone from Led Zep to the Spice Girls ing the boundaries of modern music. think of Richard Morel, a frequent collabora- 50-year-old gay men, some of whom identify have reunited lately, and it’s the thing to these As the launch of his first North American tor of yours. What makes your relationship as bears or muscle bears. But, all music fans days. So… are there plans to appease your tour in two years looms, the heavyweight— work? are welcome! die-hard Hüsker Dü or Sugar fans? Will they whose latest album, District Line, is available BM: Rich brings a wealth of experience MK: You and Richard started hosting be treated to blast from the past in the near now— reflects on his frequent collaborations from the electronic-music world, and I bring Blowoff in 2003, and it recently celebrated its future? with that other out acumen, Richard Morel; the rock. fifth anniversary. How has this gay dance BM: I have no plans, nor any interest, in expanding his underground party presence; MK: You and Richard host something party evolved, and are there plans for perma- reforming old bands. Those were great times nent residency in New York, where you’re at the time, but as time goes on I like to look throwing the parties sporadically? forward as much as possible. The songs I BM: We have grown from spinning music composed and performed with those bands for 30 friends in a basement to 1,000 people in are now part of my current band repertoire. a large concert hall. We will be at Highline That's the best I can offer, and I think most Ballroom in NYC every two months in 2008, people understand. and we hope to expand to San Francisco in the * Michael A. Knipp is a 26-year-old Baltimore- fall of 2008. based freelance writer and the founder of MK: If anything, you’re an experimental Line/Byline Communications. He can be www.seriosmarket.com artist—from genres to instruments to reached at [email protected]. monikers, you’re constantly reinventing your- GLAAD from page 7 “Where customers are friends & friends are customers.” self—but what do you consider your best collaborations with Access Hollywood, work? national cable networks such as Fox Reality, Family Owned & Operated since 1950! BM: My proudest moments to date are Zen GSN, IFC, Lifetime, The N, Sci Fi Channel Arcade (Hüsker Dü); Workbook (solo); and Sundance Channel; local cable systems Groceries • Deli • Fresh Copper Blue (Sugar); Circle of Friends (live and network affiliates; online at LiveVideo, DVD, 2005 band); and the new solo album, YouTube, AOL Video and MySpace. Fruits & Vegetables District Line. (GLAAD) is dedicated to promoting and MK: Your new album, District Line, is ensuring fair, accurate and inclusive representa- DAILY SPECIALS TO GO being heralded as a return to form of sorts. tion of people and events in the media as a Quality Meats How do you take that? Do you think you’ve means of eliminating homophobia and discrimi- ever strayed from your form? nation based on gender identity and sexual ori- Old Fashioned Service BM: I think it is a simplistic way for the entation. since 1950! STORE HOURS: Mon. - Fri.: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sat.: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. WE DELIVER Sun.: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

65 State Street • Northampton, MA Phone: 413-584-2633 • Fax: 413-585-9756 www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • 13 QEntertainment & Auto Automotive Q & A Disciplined Diva: Janet Jackson and her gay fans are together again! Ladies & By: C. Cane become his friends as well. there’s an Internet war between Janet Gentlemen, Becoming a pop icon takes undeniable tal- Q: You have a strong fan base in hip- and Madonna fans. I know you I want to thank Jonathan of Hatfield ent, ferocious discipline and, of course, a hop, which does have a reputation of and Madonna had some beef in for his question. solid gay fan base. The legendary Janet homophobia. How do you bal- the ’90s, but do you think the Q: I've been think- Jackson has all three, and she’s proving it yet ance that with your own heat between Madonna and Janet ing about buying again with her tenth studio album, appropri- personal acceptance of fans has any validity? Subaru but really ately titled Discipline. the gay community? A: No—I didn’t know this was Stephen M. Lewis don't know much Miss Janet returns to her pop roots with A: I’ve never really going on. [Laughs] President, Steve Lewis about them. I've infectious tracks like “Luv,” “Tonight” and thought about it. I Q: They argue, make videos and, of always gone with the hit lead single “Feedback,” all sure to be just do what I do. course, it’s mostly the gay fans. Toyota, but I've club hits. However, this isn’t your standard There have been People are curious: What are your heard that Subaru can be just as good. What dance record; for those late-night rendezvous, moments where I thoughts on Madonna now? model would you recommend for a family of there are freak session songs like the title know people have A: I think she's done wonderful three? track, in which Janet coos, “Daddy take your spoken out about things. She's done great things in her A: Wow! That's a pretty loaded question, but here goes! time… I want you to punish me… I need certain things that career, in her life, and more power Subaru makes four specific lines. They are some discipline tonight.” Wow, what’s next— I’ve done, which to her. I think fans will always be Impreza, Forester, Legacy (includes a Janet Jackson booth at the Folsom Street skewed more that way—always. They're just Outback), and Tribeca. All of these are Five Fair? toward topics that incredibly loyal and they love Star (the best) rated in crash worthiness. In a relaxed one-on-one chat, a jovial dealt with the gay you so much that if anyone says Virtually all are on the "recommend" list Jackson dished on her gay friend “Keisha,” community, and anything remotely negative, by Consumer Reports. celebrity girl-crush and hip-hop world homo- they disliked it— they're there to just immedi- All have the same 2.5i engine that has been phobia before giving the greatest advice of but I’m not going ately jump on them. It'll around since the late 90's, albeit they are all: how to battle a “Madonna” drag queen. to stop. For always be that way—very much improved in fuel economy, horsepower, Q: What can Janet's gay fans expect from the instance, I think it loyal. and emissions. new album, Discipline? was the Velvet Q: If a “Janet” drag queen had to Subaru is the most "green" all wheel drive y re vehicle in this country. By the way, Subaru's A: What's in it for the children? The kids! Rope album, F battle a “Madonna” drag queen, & assembly plant is the most green in the world [Laughs] I know they love to dance—that's and a couple o what advice would you give the d n with "0" toxins being emitted. what it is. There's "Rock With You," a house of people a Janet drag queen? u h Don't get me wrong, Toyotas car, as well as song, which everyone's seemed to have fallen had a little C A: Kick the bitch's ass! : y Honda are magnificent vehicles. They are in love with—even the kids in Europe. bit to say b For more information about Janet to just different than Subaru's. o Q: At what point in your career did you know about it. h Jackson’s Discipline (Island), which P All wheel drive is a given on ice and snow you had a gay following? Whether it came our on February 26, please but is also amazing in the rain. A: I think it showed its face more to me, or was “Free Xone” or “Tonight's the Night” visit: www.janetjackson.com. See Auto on p. 18 maybe I realized it more, when I did because I didn’t change the lyrics, so I was "Together Again"…what album was that? singing to another girl… the song is just beau- Q: That was 1997’s The Velvet Rope! tiful, I don’t want to change the lyrics, and A: Thank you very much for knowing my there’s nothing wrong with that. I don’t have own work! [Laughs] I don’t ever really an issue with that, so if they want to get all remembering saying, “I’ve got a pretty nice wound up in a knot, that's really their issue. gay following,” or “The children are really I’m not going to stop being who I am and cre- into me.” I never thought about it. ating the music that I create. Q: Do you have many gay people in your Q: If you could be a man for a day, what's the inner circle? first thing you would do? A: Yeah, I do. A: [Laughs] The very first thing I'd do? I can't Q: Who is the closest gay person to you? say that—it sounds silly! A: His name is Gil, and we've been best Q: You can say it, Janet—let it out! friends for about 11 years. He's a creative A: It's simple: I'm real curious to see what it director and one of the choreographers that I feels like to pee. work with as well. Q: It's very convenient! Q: How does your man, Jermaine Dupri, react A: I'm sure it is! You don't even have to take to the gay boys around you? your pants completely down! Put it through A: He doesn't. We're all friends. As a matter of the zipper, right? You guys got it easy! fact, it's so cute because we all call Gil Q: What are your thoughts on gay marriage? “Keisha.” It's a pet name. Jermaine calls him A: I’m all for it. Why not? It's two people that “Keisha,” too, and it startled Gil because he are in love with one another. What's the issue? had never done it before. It’s just cute to see. Q: Who would be your celebrity girl-crush? It's just another friend with Jermaine. He A: You know who I think is flawless? Alicia loves Gil just as much as I do. I've heard peo- Keys. I think she's absolutely beautiful, such a ple talk a little bit about that, but that doesn’t sweetheart, down to earth. So maybe Alicia apply when it comes to Jermaine. He's very Keys. comfortable with all my friends, and they've Q: I'm not sure if you’re aware of this, but 14 • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Gay Traveling Out of Town: 10 Distinctive Neighborhoods with a Gay Vibe By: Andrew Collins The media have been showering plenty of as Inman Park, Little Five Points, Castleberry ver the years, a attention on Portland lately for its vaunted Hill, and East Atlanta Village. All of these number of urban indie-music scene, rapidly rising culinary rep- communities have a somewhat gay vibe, and Oneighborhoods utation, and overall cool factor. A handful of East Atlanta Village is perhaps the most inter- around the world have funky neighborhoods around the city have esting at the moment, with its wealth of indie developed decidedly gay helped propel its bohemian image, with the coffeehouses, lounges, music clubs, ethnic followings. GLBT visitors Alberta Arts District one of the most intrigu- restaurants, and boutiques. This neighborhood to San Francisco have long ing. Extending along Alberta Street from about 5 miles southeast of downtown draws made a beeline for the about Martin Luther King Boulevard east to an amazingly diverse bunch. Walk along Flat Castro. Areas like Chelsea in New York City, 33rd Avenue, there's a slew of art galleries, Shoals Avenue to find such intriguing hang- Lakeview in Chicago, and Hillcrest in San independently owned boutiques, and afford- outs as Mary's, a raffish and lovably gay bar; Diego are also famous for having substantial able restaurants. This highly diverse neigh- Joe's Coffee, with its quirky artwork and concentrations of gay-popular businesses. borhood stages numerous arts events, includ- potent java; and City Life Apparel, carrying a But so-called "gay ghettos" have gradually ing a gallery hop the last Thursday of each wide assortment of urban attire. begun to diversify in recent years, as main- month and an annual street fair in September. Faubourg Marigny (New Orleans, Louisiana) stream populations embrace these neighbor- Among the many restaurants, Zaytoon's has a The neighborhood immediately downriver hoods, and gays and lesbians feel increasing- particularly queer following and serves from the French Quarter - across tree-shaded ly comfortable shopping, dining, socializing, superb Middle Eastern fare, but you'll find Esplanade Avenue—is Faubourg Marigny, and living in other parts of town. A result of plenty of worthy spots along here to eat and East Atlanta Village abounds with cool boutiques which, because of its increasing GLBT fol- this trend has been the way in which many drink. and funky cafes and bars. Photo by: Andrew Collins lowing, is sometimes referred to affectionate- progressive, artsy neighborhoods have devel- Bay View (Milwaukee, Wisconsin) Milwaukee experiencing an impressive resur- ly as "Fagburg" Marigny. Many gays and oth- oped a slightly gay following, without neces- About 2 miles southeast of Walker's Point, gence of late, Bay View has become a partic- erwise progressive-minded types have bought sarily possessing a core of gay businesses. the main gay-bar hub of Milwaukee, you'll ularly enjoyable area for exploration. up this artsy neighborhood's quaint French Stroll some of these areas, such as Bay View find Bay View, a gracious neighborhood near Cobble Hill and Carroll Gardens (Brooklyn, West Indies-style cottages and Greek Revival in Milwaukee and Roosevelt Row in Phoenix, Lake Michigan containing a bounty of beauti- New York) mansions. The neighborhood's greatest attrib- and you might not see dozens of rainbow fully restored Victorian and early 20th-centu- Brooklyn's charming Park Slope neighbor- ute, at least for gay visitors, is its wealth of flags, or an especially high number of same- ry homes. Lesbians and gays have been hood has long cultivated a lesbian following. gay-friendly (and moderately priced) restau- sex couples milling around. Yet, it's easy to steadily moving into the neighborhood in Just across the Gowanus Canal from Park rants and B&Bs—there are even a few queer discern a certain queer sensibility. recent years, and a number of "family-friend- Slope, there's a pair of similarly diverting, bars here, including the Phoenix and If you're something of an urban adventurer, ly" businesses have opened along the main trendy neighborhoods, Cobble Hill and—due Cowpokes. You'll also find one of the most or you're simply longing to branch out in your thoroughfare, Kinnickinnic Avenue, including south—Carroll Gardens. Essentially an exten- gay-popular spots in town for jazz brunch, travels and explore hip, distinctive urban dis- festive Cafe Lulu and Broad Vocabulary fem- sion of debonair Brooklyn Heights, Cobble Feelings Cafe. tricts with great energy, a liberal vibe, and a inist bookstore. These businesses have joined Hill and Carroll Gardens are handsome resi- Ferndale (Detroit, Michigan) gay-welcoming attitude, check out some of some of the area's longstanding ethnic restau- dential districts chock-full of 19th-century To get a full sense of everything metro these 10 particularly inviting neighborhoods. rants, such as Three Brothers Serbian eatery townhouses. Both areas have seen a major Detroit has to offer, plan to spend some time Alberta Arts District (Portland, Oregon and De Marinis Pizza. With much of transformation in recent years, as hipsters, venturing out of Detroit proper, as many wor- gays, intellectuals, and fashion plates have thy attractions - as well as the heart of the gay invaded en masse. In fact, nobody living scene - lie outside downtown. The first com- around here in the mid-'90s could have imag- munity you reach heading northwest along ined that Cobble Hill's once-dowdy commer- Woodward Avenue is Ferndale, a formerly cial thoroughfare, Smith Street, would today working class community that has developed glow with haute eateries, stylish home-fur- cachet among young, forward-thinking pro- nishing shops, and esteemed art galleries. fessionals and artists in recent years, includ- Along Court Street in Carroll Gardens, you'll ing quite a few gay folks. Its main drag, West still find many of the Italian markets and Nine Mile Road, has a bounty of cool bou- pizzerias that date back to the area's Little tiques, vintage clothiers, and home-furnishing Italy heyday. shops. The dining scene is solid, too—consid- East Atlanta Village (Atlanta, Georgia) er dining on down-home comfort food at Many visitors to Atlanta focus on the glitzy Christine's Cuisine, or enjoy soul-warming downtown and super-gay Midtown area, pizzas at Como's. missing out on a number of enchanting, off- See Gay Neighborhoods p. 15 beat neighborhoods outside the city core, such The Highlands Inn Celebrates 25 Years as “Lesbian Paradise” Bethlehem, NH—The Highlands Inn will Grace Newman, owner, bought the 100-acre celebrate its 25th year in business in 2008. property in 1983. The Highlands Inn, located Named by PlanetOut as “one of the most in New Hampshire's major vacation destina- romantic lesbian destinations on the planet," tion, the White Mountains, has 19 rooms in the lesbian-owned resort is one of very few three buildings. Several of the rooms have a inns that cater to a women-only clientele. fireplace, private deck, or 2-person spa. “It's amazing how things have changed since we opened the Inn. Gay-friendly accom- modations were a thing of the distant future! It was usually pretty awkward for a same-sex couple to share a room. Now lesbians and gay men are con- sidered a valuable market, worthy of special efforts to get our business," said Newman.

See Highlands page 18 www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • 15 National Queer News Court: NY Lesbian Couple can divorce The Night Owl The best LGBTQ Clubs in our Beth R. and Donna M. were married in interests of the children require proceeding Gayborhoods! Check ‘em out! Canada on Valentine's Day 2004 surrounded with her claim to ensure her ongoing relation- 168 York Street Central & Western, MA by friends and family. The couple had one ship and support of the children. New Haven, CT Blu child together just before the marriage and New York courts have long held that out-of- Bar another child in 2006. Donna was the biolog- state marriages, if valid where entered, will be 105 Water Street Worcester, MA 254 Crown Street ical parent, and both children were given respected in New York, even if the marriages New Haven, CT Beth's last name and call her "mom." The two could not have been performed here. Club Car women shared a home, and both have always Courts have also recognized that the struc- 64 Water Street Gotham Citi Cafe cared for and supported the children as par- ture for ending a relationship is as important Worcester, MA Church & Crown Streets New Haven, CT ents. as the one for creating it. Same-sex couples DIVA'S In April of 2007, Beth filed for divorce. and their children need this structure just as 492 Pleasant St. Partners Cafe Donna responded by arguing that the mar- much as different-sex couples. The ruling in Northampton, MA 365 Crown Street riage is void because New York State doesn't this case is a step toward marriage equality in New Haven, CT allow same-sex couples to marry within its the state of New York. Hob Knob borders. Lambda Legal argued that it is well- A print document of the decision can be 234 Chestnut Street New York Clubs can marry. The court agreed. Springfield, MA established New York law to recognize out- Significantly, the court also agreed that found at the following Lambda Legal website: Water Works Pub of-state marriages that are validly performed Beth's claim that she is legally a parent of http://data.lambdalegal.org/pdf/legal/robin- The Pub 76 Central Ave. in places like Canada where same-sex couples both children cannot be dismissed. The best son/beth-r-v-donna-m-decision.pdf 382 Dwight Street Albany, NY Springfield, MA Club Phoenix MB 348 Central Ave., Gay dancers compete on new Lifetime show 40 Grafton Street Albany, NY 12206 Worcester, MA Lifetime premieres its first dance competi- dancers are unaware of until the show begins. Contemporary Dance. He will be dancing Joey's Bar tion series, Your Mama Don’t Dance, on Each week, the three judges - actor Ben with his stepmother, Dolores. Jonathan, from Sin City 664 2nd Ave., Troy, NY Friday, February 29, at 9 PM. Three gay men Vereen, choreographer Cris Judd and singer Los Angeles, recently appeared in Bratz: The 350 Worthington Street 518-237-4846 —Silvano Merendi (48, pictured), Dante Vitamin C - will put the two teams with the Movie and performed in Aladdin: A Musical Springfield, MA Oh Bar Puleio (31) and Jonathan Silva (19)—will be lowest scores up for a vote, allowing the pub- Spectacular. He will be paired with his moth- Connecticut 304 Lark Street, featured as contestants. Since openly gay per- lic to decide which team stays. The series will er, Rodilyn, a hairdresser. Albany, NY formers are rarely showcased within a compe- end with a live finale on Friday, April 18. For more info on the show, visit: Triangles (518) 463-9004 tition format, their presence is a remarkable Silvano will be paired with his daughter, http://www.myLifetime.com or to get a 66 Sugar Hollow Road degree of visibility. Celia, whom he raised with the help of his glimpse of the show, watch the video found at: Danbury, Connecticut Fuze Box Bar The program features ten young profession- partner in Miami, Florida. Dante, from New http://videos.mylifetime.com/index.jsp?fr_chl 12 Central Avenue, Chez Est Albany, NY al dancers who are each paired with one of York, trained at Wilkes University and moved =21b7aa0948551aab841c622f4da688788d2 458 Wethersfield Ave. (518) 432-4472 their parents, a surprise that the young to England to study at the Northern School of 6b689 Hartford, CT Clinton St. Pub Polo Club 159 Clinton St., GLAAD calls on media to examine violent crimes 678 Maple Avenue Schenectady, NY 12305 Hartford, CT 518-377-8555 commited against gay and transgender people in FL 168 York Street Cafe New York, February 29, 2008 – Gay & transgender people are legitimate targets for Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation violence—something that media have a was shot because he was gay by a classmate. (GLAAD) President Neil G. Giuliano today responsibility to examine in their coverage of About GLAAD urged media to examine the recent violent these brutal attacks." The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against crimes in Florida targeting Simmie Williams, Williams, 17, was shot and killed on Feb. Defamation (GLAAD) is dedicated to promot- Jr., Melbourne Brunner and Adam Hopper, 22nd. Brunner was severely beaten on Feb. ing and ensuring fair, accurate and inclusive and the vigil held yesterday in honor of 23 as his attacker yelled anti-gay slurs and representation of people and events in the Williams. threatened Brunner and his partner. Hopper media as a means of eliminating homophobia “This spate of violent crimes in Florida is an was attacked earlier this month outside of a and discrimination based on gender identity bar in Melbourne, Fla. These attacks follow and sexual orientation. For more information, important reminder that violence against gay attacks are about intimidation and fear. the recent shooting death of Lawrence King, a please visit www.glaad.org. and transgender people continues to be a per- They're about sending a message that gay and vasive issue," said Giuliano. "These kinds of 15-year-old student from Oxnard, Calif., who

Gay Neighborhoods from Page 14 gay William Lewis House B&B has been Roosevelt Row (Phoenix, Arizona) warren of vintage mills and renovated ware- Logan Circle (Washington, D.C.) going strong for well over a decade. On the north side of downtown Phoenix, houses. St. Anthony Main, the area immedi- If you walk about six blocks due east of Midtown (Houston, Texas) Roosevelt Row is a burgeoning mixed-use ately northeast of the island, was once a uber-gay Dupont Circle, you'll come to Logan Between downtown and Montrose, residential district that supports several excel- Polish neighborhood. Several cool bars and Circle, the white-hot D.C. neighborhood that's Houston's Midtown neighborhood has one of lent galleries as well as a wonderful bakery, restaurants have opened in these parts, and enjoyed a massive gentrification in recent the hottest real-estate markets in the country, Tammie Coe Cakes (stop in for a latte and a younger residents—many of them gay—have years. Along 14th Street, you'll see the great- as this once virtually deserted area booms sweet treat or two). Vinophiles have taken a begun transforming the area. You can stroll est evidence of change - hot new restaurants, with new condos and town homes. Cool shine to Cheuvront Wine & Cheese Cafe, the along the riverbank, which has park benches, the chic gay lounge Halo, a huge Whole restaurants are popping up, too, such as brainchild of the city's openly gay state sena- and amble down along the crashing cataracts Foods Market, and the stylish Hotel Helix, Farrago, a dapper bistro serving creative piz- tor, Ken Cheuvront. This happening neighbor- at St. Anthony Falls. You'll find some great, which is run by the GLBT-friendly Kimpton zas, affordable pastas and burgers, and won- hood is also home to the esteemed Phoenix gay-friendly restaurant options in the area, Group. Fans of the neighborhood's handful of derful weekend brunch fare. A more upscale Art Museum and the Native American- including Pizza Nea and kitschy Nye's fine theaters hang out at the inviting 1409 but still moderately priced option is Gravitas, focused Heard Museum. You'll also find one Polonaise Room, serving up hearty Polish Playbill Cafe, and live-music devotees stroll a slick space serving innovative regional of the city's top gay bars, Amsterdam, an ele- food and featuring dancing to live polka along the U Street Corridor, which marks the American cuisine. For nightlife, there's gant lounge with a festive patio out back. bands. neighborhood's northern boundary and is Brazos River Bottom, a country-western bar St. Anthony Main (Minneapolis, Minnesota) lined with great clubs and restaurants. Even that was welcoming queer folks to Midtown Just across the Mississippi River from *Andrew Collins is the author of Fodor's before Logan Circle became so fabulous, gays years before the neighborhood started getting downtown Minneapolis, you'll find some of Gay Guide to the USA and eight additional and lesbians began buying the Edwardian and trendy. Midtown's proximity to the numerous the city's most intriguing neighborhoods, travel guides. He can be reached care of this Victorian townhouses in this historic but for- gay bars of Montrose have made it a hit with beginning with Nicollet Island, which is home publication or at [email protected]. merly blighted neighborhood. For example, many gay and lesbian homeowners. to the St. Anthony Falls Historic District, a 16 • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesmass.com LGBT Announcements TRT PRIDE Calendar from MA, NY, CT & VT! (MA) UNITY is a Transgender support group of each month; 6-8:30 p.m.; Provided by Project WAMC's Performing Arts Studio; 339 Central bring guys together for interesting conversation which meets at 7 p.m. on the 2nd Thursday of H.O.P.E., a program of the AIDS Council of Ave, Albany, NY; 8 p.m., $15, call 518-465-5233 about meeting, dating and having sex. These each month at Baystate Hospital, 3300 Main Northeastern New York. Testing offered at the ext. 4 for tickets events have a maximum number of 8 to 10 guys, Street in Springfield, Ma.; and on the 4th CDGLCC, 332 Hudson Ave., Albany. FMI: 518- (MA) Mar. 9th: Charles Busch At Hampshire so please register with Howie by calling 254- 462-6138. 4444. Thursday at the Blue Moon Coffee Roaster locat- College; 11:30 a.m., Mainstage Theatre, Emily ed at 715 Sumner Avenue, Springfield, MA. FMI: LGBTQ TEA DANCE AT DANCE NORTHAMPTON. Dickinson Hall, Hampshire College. Showing of (VT) March 20; BOOK CLUB; 7 p.m.; Menspace. Deja 860-604-6343 or Keri 413-364-1749. Second Sunday of every month; 3-6 PM; $8 "The Lady In Question" and a Q&A session with The March book is Spanbauer's THE MAN WHO (includes lesson at 3:00) FMI: www.dan- Charles Busch. FMI & to RSVP visit Facebook: FELL IN THE LOVE WITH THE MOON. FMI (MA) SOCIAL GROUP FOR LESBIANS; We cenorthampton.com . umass.facebook.com/event.php?eid=104545771 Curtis, at 254-2400. always meet on the first and third Friday's of the 62 (VT) March 21; GRF CONTRA DANCE: 7p.m.; month. For information call 413-687-2065 (NY) OUT DANCING (for the LGBTQ communi- ty); every Wednesday evening; 7 to 8 p.m.; (VT) March 9 POTLUCK: 6:30 p.m. at the Montague MA. Gender Role Free Contra (MA) EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION (EC) is Saratoga SAVOY, 7 Wells St, Saratoga Springs, Menspace. Come socialize and bring a dish to Dancing, with live music. Not a Men’s Program NOW available without a prescription at all NY. FMI: 518-587-5132. http://saratogasavoy.home- share! We’re celebrating the arrival of Daylight event Two dances this month, with the second Tapestry Health Services sites. (413) 586-2539. stead.com/files/outdancing.html Savings Time. occurring on Saturday, March 22. For more info, www.lcfd.org Friday, (MA) MATURE LESBIAN SUPPORT GROUP; (CT) Every Sunday; ALL LGBT YOUTH to the (MA) March 9; “TRANSCEND” MEETING; 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.; South Congregational Church, (VT) March 21; GAYME NIGHT: 7 p.m.; Howie’s Group for women 55+ meets monthly at the Rainbow Room; at the Hartford Gay & Lesbian Pittsfield, MA. Monthly support/social group meet- place. Gayme night has seen lots of variety in the Northampton Council on Aging at 240 Main St., at Health Collective; from 3-6 p.m.; 1841 Broad Street, Hartford, CT; for LGBT youth and allies. 21 ing for the Trans community. Sponsored by games played in recent months. Come on over 6 p.m.; second Monday of each month. & younger. BSCC. FMI: Infoline at 413-822-7268. and bring your favorite to the mix. If you’d like, (MA) DISCUSSION GROUP FOR LESBIANS (MA) TransForming Families – Transgender (MA) March 10; 7-9 p.m.; The New England bring a snack to share as well. FMI: Howie - 603- 40+ meets every Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 8 Support Group; Parents, partners, children and Transgender Pride March and Rally - sched- 256-6995 p.m. at the Stonewall Center at UMass. This is a their transgender loved ones. Wednesdays, 7:30 uled for June 7, 2008 in Northampton, MA. Join (MA) March 22; GRF CONTRA DANCE: 7 p.m., warm and welcoming group of intelligent women. – 9 p.m. in Hadley. FMI: www.transformingfami- us for the next working meeting at the Media Montague MA. Not a Men’s Program event. FMI: Information email to: [email protected] lies.org or 413-522-0522 Education Foundation, 60 Masonic Street, Howie - 603-256-6995 Northampton, MA 01060. FMI: (MA) Free Breast Cancer Services; Cooley (VT) March 24; BREATHWORK WITH RON (MA) OLDER LESBIAN DISCUSSION GROUPS; [email protected], or www.transpride- Amherst/NoHo Area. New members accepted on Dickinson; Women can select therapy services KING: 6:30 – 8:30pm at the Menspace. Ron King march.org. will lead this class. FMI: Howie - 603-256-6995 space-available basis. If enough interest, new such as acupuncture, aromatherapy, therapeutic touch, healing music, healing touch, Reiki, Reiki, (VT) March 11; OUR FUTURES: 7 p.m. at the groups may form. FMI: 413-247-3257 or 413-253- (MA) April 2; BSCC POTLUCK DINNER; 7:00 Peggy Huddleston’s Prepare for Surgery, Heal Menspace. A report from the statewide meeting 3049. p.m.; Unitarian-Universalist Church, 175 Wendell Faster™, self-hypnosis/guided imagery and ther- on Aging Concerns of the LGBT Community. All Avenue, Pittsfield, MA. Open to the GLBTQI com- (VT) MEN'S SUPPORT GROUP; Any male 18 or apeutic massage by CD employees that hold cer- welcome, no prior attendance necessary. munity and friends. Bring a main dish, salad, veg- older; Support group not a therapy group. Free. tifications in these therapy techniques. FMI” 413- (VT) March 12; BEAR NIGHT: Doors open at 5 gie or dessert to share. Beverages provided. 582-2424. Every Tuesday, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Brattleboro, VT. p.m., the Ceilidh House, Westmoreland NH. DJ (CT) April 4-6; Eat, Drink and be Married!; A FMI: 802-258-3914. (MA) EAST COAST FEMALE-TO-MALE music begins at 7:30 p.m. weekend of parties to benefit marriage equality; (MA) JOIN EMAIL GROUP FOR LGBT PAR- GROUP (ECFTMG); 2nd Sunday of every month (MA) March 15; Sober Dance Party & For the fifth consecutive year, marriage equality ENTS in the Pioneer Valley area at from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. FMI: 413.584.7616 or Entertainment Extravaganza; 7 p.m. - Midnight supporters all over Connecticut will party for http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lgbt_parents_pio- email: [email protected]. FTMs or SOFFAs Center for the Arts, 17 New South St., 3rd Floor, equality—hosting parties or gatherings in their neer_valley/ for exchanging information, chatting who have never come to one of the meetings Northampton; FMI: Craig Stevens at (413) 584- homes with family and friends in support of the about our families, and organizing get-togethers should call and introduce themselves to Bet 7745, (413) 221-3930, [email protected]. freedom to marry for same-sex couples. As a and play-dates. before attending. Meetings are open to ALL mas- (MA) March 15; Singer/songwriter and political host, you can plan any event you would like. FMI: culine-identified, female-born persons, our signif- Gina Longo, Eat, Drink, & Be Married! (MA, NY, CT & VT) DISCRIMINATION icant others, family, and allies. activist, Colleen Kattau with her band, Nice BECAUSE YOU ARE QUEER? Call The Guys, will perform at the Echo Lake Coffee Coordinator, at [email protected] or call 203-675- Rainbow Times, 413-204-8959; 518-391-2617. (VT) Third Sunday of Every Month; in Brattleboro, House in the Leverett Town Hall, 9 Montague Rd., 9943. (NY) Bisexual Brunch; First and third Sundays Open to anyone whose identity or expression Leverett, MA, 7:30 p.m. Admission:$10. FMI: April 4; LGBT Dance class series and party: of the month, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Rainbow doesn't fit neatly into the gender binary, 413-548-9394. two beginner classes: West Coast Swing 6-7pm, Cafe, 332 Hudson Ave., Albany. FMI: Viktoria including transpeople of all genders and sexual Salsa 7-8pm, followed by potluck/dance party 9- orientations. FMI: Benjamin Robin: robin@ben- (MA) March 15; ST. PATRICK'S DAY DANCE; 518-438-6315. 8:30-12:30 p.m.; VFW Hall, 36 Linden Street, 11pm. Cost: $15 classes/party; $10 party at 8pm. jaminrobin.net No partner necessary. Location: Northampton (NY) Bagel Bunch; Tuesdays; 10:30 a.m.; Older Pittsfield, MA. DJ Larry Kratka (Taconic High Dance, Pleasant St. right next to Shell Station. gay men’s social and discussion group. (NY) Ask-A-Lawyer Legal Clinic: Serving the School's radio guru) will provide the music. Open Tonight class no. 1. FMI:: [email protected] Bruegger’s, Hannaford Plaza, Central Ave., LGBT community Geri Pomerantz, Esq. and Anne to the community, friends and allies. $10.00 Albany. Reynolds Copps, Esq.; 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.; FREE admission. 18+. April 11; LGBT Dance class and party: two Appointment only. FMI: 518.432.4188. (NY) Capital Pride Singers; Mondays @ 7 p.m.; (NY) March 15; Progressions Concert Series: beginner classes: West Coast Swing 6-7pm, LGBT/LGBTaffirming; mixed chorus; St. (NY) Capital Pride Singers LGBT and affirming Christine Havrilla with Kim Buckley; 8 p.m., Salsa 7-8pm, followed by potluck/dance party 9- Andrew’s, Episcopal Church, 10 No. Main St., mixed chorus. Rehearsals on Monday's, 7 p.m., 7:30 Doors; CDGLCC, 332 Hudson Ave, Albany, 11pm. Cost: $15 classes/party; $10 party at 8pm. Albany, 12203; FMI: 435-4636. Emmanuel Baptist Church, 275 State St., Albany. NY; $12, $10 students with ID. FMI: progression- No partner necessary. Location: Northampton FMI: 518-435-4636. Dance, Pleasant St. right next to Shell Station. (NY) Capital District Prime Timers; Provides [email protected] (MA) March 4-29; SIX IN WAX, paintings by six Tonight class no. 2. FMI: [email protected] social, cultural, and recreational opportunities for (VT) March 14-23; 17th annual Women’s Film artists working in encaustic (Encaustic is a mix- mature gay and bisexual men. 21+. FMI: jalli- Festival in Brattleboro, Vermont. Thirty films April 18; LGBT Dance class and party: two ture of beeswax, resin and pigment.) Tue-Fri 10- [email protected] or CDPT 595 New Loudon from 11 countries will be screened at downtown beginner classes: West Coast Swing 6-7pm, 6, Saturday 10-4; Reception - Saturday, March 8, Rd #202 Latham NY 12110 venues, accompanied by panel discussions and Salsa 7-8pm, followed by potluck/dance party 9- 5-8 p.m.; Demonstration of encaustic painting - 11pm. Cost: $15 classes/party; $10 party at 8pm. (NY) Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Men directors’ talks. Benefit for the Women¹s Crisis March 22, 1 p.m.; Nashawannuck Gallery, 40 No partner necessary. Location: Northampton Support Group; Mondays; 7 p.m.; Support group Center. FMI: www.womensfilmfestival.org Cottage Street, Easthampton, MA FMI: Marlies Dance, Pleasant St. right next to Shell Station. for GBT men; CDGLCC @ 332 Hudson Avenue in Stoddard, Gallery Director 413-529-9393 or (VT) March 16; Transgender Support Group; Tonight class no. 3. FMI: [email protected] Albany. FMI: Q Diamond at (518) 462-6138 or [email protected] Meeting in Brattleboro, VT the third Sunday of [email protected]. April 25; LGBT Dance class and party: two ((NY) March 7; First Friday at Romaine every month. 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.The March meeting (NY) Lesbian and Bisexual Women's Support beginner classes: West Coast Swing 6-7pm, Brookes Gallery: Sean Calhoun; 5-9 p.m.; will be on Sunday, March 16 from 5:30 to 8:30 Group; every other Tuesday; 7 p.m.; Meet at Salsa 7-8pm, followed by potluck/dance party 9- CDGLCC, 332 Hudson Ave., 3rd Floor, Albany, p.m. FMI: Benjamin Robin: robin@benjamin- CDGLCC at 332 Hudson Avenue in Albany. FMI: 11pm. Cost: $15 classes/party; $10 party at 8pm. NY; FMI: [email protected] robin.net Q Diamond at (518) 462-6138. No partner necessary. Location: Northampton (MA) Mar. 8th: Charles Busch At Amherst (CT) March 19; Trans Plantations at the Hartford Dance, Pleasant St. right next to Shell Station. (NY) Youth Group; Friday nights; 7 p.m.; 332 College; 8:00 p.m.; Cole Assembly Room, Stage; Reception with cash bar and hot appetiz- Tonight class no. 4. FMI: [email protected] Hudson Ave. in Albany; Group offers peer support ers at the Hartford Stage beginning at 6:30 p.m., Converse Hall, Amherst College; Busch is a play- (MA) April 26; BSCC THIRTEENTH ANNUAL to LGBT& questioning individuals ages 13-19. A followed by the performance at 8pm. $10; FMI: wright, off-Broadway performer, and actor. His GLBTQI FESTIVAL; 2:00 p.m. Silent and live supportive environment for LGBTQ youth and 860-525-7777, x313. plays and films include "Psycho Beach Party" and auctions, catered buffet dinner, evening entertain- their straight allies. FMI: Q Diamond (518) 462- "Die Mommie Die!"both of which he starred in in (VT) March 19; CONNECTING GROUP: 6:30 - ment. FMI: www.berkshirestonewall.org. 6138. drag. Free and open to the public! 9:30 p.m.; at the Menspace. No specific theme. (NY) Confidential HIV Testing; first Wednesday (NY) March 8; Ember Swift; The Linda: This informal small group evening is intended to See More Calendar of Events on p. 23

Submit your non-profit calendar event/s* to [email protected] or [email protected] *Certain restrictions apply. Small for-profit events/groups, 35 words or less, are considered for a small fee. Large/for-profit events are not considered. All submissions appear online. www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • 17 Connecticut Connection

HELP WANTED IN HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT

Looking for LOVE? Turn to the PERSONALS on page 23

CT Neighborhood Organizations AIDS Testing: www.guardinhealth.org Runaway Switchboard: (773) 880-9860Connecticut Gay Father’s Group: (203) 938-2881Hartford Women's Education and Legal Fund (CWEALF): 135 Youth Participants showed their “True Colors” at the 2007 Northampton Pride March & Rally. Community Center: (860) 724-5542CT Freedom to Marry Broad Street, Hartford, CT 06105 - 860.247.6090 Info. and Coalition: (203) 791-9553Love Makes a Family: www.lmf- Referral program: (800) 479-2949 or Greater Hartford True Colors Celebrates 15th Anniversary: ct.org (860) 525-7777Married Lesbian Support Group: 524-0601 - Statewide women's rights organization working [email protected] (203) 430-9227 to end discrimination and hate crimes; provides free legal Broadening Scope of Gender and Sexual Married Men’s Bisexual Support Group of Hartford: information and referral to the LGBT community. (860)264-5605Metropolitan Community Church of New XX Club (Twenty Club): Rev. Cannon Jones - 45 Church Minorities, a Global Perspective Haven: (203) 397-2312New Haven Gay & Lesbian Street Hartford , CT 06141-0387 - (860)646-8651 - Povides STORRS, CT, March 13, 2008—To kickoff tional students. These levels of diversity are Center: www.nhglcc.org; (203) 387-2252 knowledgeable info., and ongoing peer support to trans- PFLAG Danburry: www.pflag.org; (203) 797- sexuals. 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month, 2 -5 p.m. a decade and a half of widespread support and strongest when rooted in social movements, 4743Connecticut ’s Kids: (203) 256-8414 connecticuT View (cTView): A Transgender social and education for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgen- such as the LGBTQI movement, in order for Senior Lesbians Happily at Play (SLAPHAPS): Kathy support club, for the TV, TG, TS, CD, both male and der, intersex, questioning and ally contemporary issues to be dealt with.” (203) 929-8113 female. Monthly meeting in New Haven as well as e-mem- (LGBTQIA) youth, True Colors, Inc. is proud Diversity is the key factor in creating a safe True Colors CT: www.ourtruecolors.org; (888) 565- bership, and more. A no dues club, with all the frills; to announce the upcoming 15th anniversary and welcoming space for the True Colors con- 5551National www.transgender.org/ctv/ of it’s annual sexual and gender minority con- ference. ference. Homophobia is still a prominent issue Meet new friends in CT, have a great time, see page 24 Due to the always growing and overwhelm- across the globe. Physical and verbal abuse, ing success of the annual conference over the illegalizing homosexuality, employment dis- past 15 years, True Colors Inc. has chosen the crimination, and lack of marriage rights are University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, to be just a few of the inequalities that face the this year’s home for the 2008 conference on worldwide LGBTQIA community. These Thursday, March 13th, Friday, March 14th realities need to be exposed. The True Colors and Saturday March 15th. Over 3,000 stu- conference will be an opportunity to spread dents, social workers, educators and other awareness of this global perspective of sexual participants are joining to enjoy a weekend of and gender minorities. educational and entertaining events that pro- True Colors is the largest LGBTQIA youth vide an affirming social environment. conference in the country and is a leading Participants will engage themselves in a wide advocate for sexual and gender minority range of interactive workshops. ‘Born Gay? A youth. Look at Biological Factors’, “Hip-Hop and “The True Colors Conference gives youth a Homophobia”, ‘Weight Bias in a Teens safe and affirming place and opportunity to World.” and “Making Queer Programming talk about issues that are often kept quiet,” Anti-Racist and Accessible to All” are only a says Anna Green, a student participant of the small sampling of over 140 workshops 2007 conference “The two days of the confer- planned. ence are not only eye-opening, but a great With the support of the various UCONN chance to meet other people and to have lots cultural centers such as; the Office of of fun doing so.” Multicultural & International Affairs, the For more information on True Colors pro- Rainbow Center, Puerto Rican Latin grams, or to become involved in the work American Center, the Asian American Center please contact Robert Price, Event and the Women Center, True Colors strives to Management, at 1-888-565-5551, or check incorporate a global perspective of sexual and out our web site at www.OurTrueColors.org gender minorities into this year’s educational workshops and entertainment promoting About True Colors, Inc., Sexual Minority Youth worldwide acceptance and respect. & Family Services is a not-for-profit 501 (c) (3) “Students on the UCONN campus have a organization that works to create a world where deep motivation and willingness to support youth, adults and families of all sexual orienta- diversity,” says Dr. Cathleen Love, Vice tions and gender identities are valued and Provost for Multicultural and International affirmed. We challenge all forms of oppression Affairs “Many of our cultural centers began through education, training, advocacy, youth as results of student protests.” and leadership development, mentoring and direct services to youth and to those responsible Fleurette King, Director of the Rainbow for their well-being. True Colors can be reached Center, stresses the importance of “local, at 888-565-5551 or visit our website at regional and global diversity on a college www.OurTrueColors.org campus that serves both domestic and interna- 18 • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com QReviews Actor-writer-director Ash Christian’s ‘Fat Girls’ worth its weight in fun By: Ginger Harris/TRT Special concept—set in the awkward atmosphere of tions that make each scene flow effortlessly It’s a scene with which everyone is familiar: high school—“Fat Girls” expands the trials of into the next. finding your place within the high-school “fitting in” to the characters’ families and Under Christian’s direction—he wrote the hierarchy. And that task can prove daunting ventures in love. Meeting the parents and filmed at age 19 and had it green-lighted when you march to the beat of a different defending those you care about from the prej- before his 21st birthday—“Fat Girls” also Broadway score. udices of others are situations that audiences captures the kitschy religious fanaticism of “Fat Girls”—the debut film of are sure to identify with, and even heavier small-town Texas in a blithe manner that’s actor/writer/director Ash Christian, now issues like homophobia and bullying are han- actually, wait for it, funny. available on DVD—follows two adolescent dled with tasteful yet incredible humor. “I know these people!” says Christian. outcasts, Rodney (Christian) and Sabrina For a film that deals with so many touchy “They are in my family. I don’t blame them (Ashley Fink), as they deal with critical subjects (the title alone indicates the use of for their narrow-mindedness. They’ve never teenage peers while searching for the perfect some serious self-deprecating humor), the been out in the real world and they don’t date to the much-anticipated Graduation severity of the scenes is offset by impeccably understand.” Dance. As can be expected, it’s anything but placed comic relief. For example, the ironic An example of Christian’s liberal use of art easy in a world where your friends are few details of Rodney’s father’s demise are a riot imitating life is the character of Rodney’s and you’re under siege at every turn. But in and come at a point in the action when lesser mother, a devout woman with hair and make- spite of the opposition, the duo meet kindred comedy would fail to bring the overall light- up reminiscent of a 1980s New Wave band. spirits in unlikely places, from an understand- heartedness of the film back from the depths She keeps an electric Nativity scene lit up in ing teacher to a surprising pair of fellow stu- ple they needed to find all along was them- into which it had settled. Additionally, the the front yard year round and continually dents. Along the way, however, Rodney and selves. soundtrack—the rap numbers, in particular— quotes radical Bible passages at inappropriate Sabrina discover that the most important peo- Breathing new life into the coming-of-age contributes nicely to the well-timed transi- times. Highlands from page 14 Auto from Page 13 A test drive of all models back to back over the commitment ceremonies, and hundreds of No aquaplaning in the rain as there is front or same test route is normally the decision maker. The Highlands will celebrate its 25th year couples have honeymooned at the Inn or Call me at 413-584-5355 to set up this "no rear wheel drive. It cuts through water like a hot with a birthday party on the weekend of May stayed there while becoming "civilly united" obligation" test drive to help you make your knife through butter. 9-11. Saturday night will feature a catered in nearby Vermont. The other area of superiority is safety. There decision. dinner followed by champagne and dancing If you see a Subaru with a "Steve Lewis" The Highlands Inn recently received the are now Subaru Dealers in all 50 states, includ- with a LIVE band, "Truth or Dare"! 2007 Pink Choice award for its reliably high ing Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Texas and license plate frame, ask the owner for their opin- Newman is thrilled that the Highlands ' ion of Steve Lewis Subaru, both sales and serv- ratings from members of Pink Choice Hawaii. Think about the safety of All wheel 25th anniversary coincides with the first (www.pinkchoice.com), a website for lesbian drive in dry weather. Swerving to miss a small ice. I can't think of one person that would give year of New Hampshire 's new civil union you a negative response. I defy any other dealer and gay travelers seeking information about child that darts into the street, or a tree limb law, which went into effect on January 1, to make that offer. accommodations worldwide. The Highlands falling in front of you, all causing you to swerve 2008 . The Highlands is well-prepared to Thanks for your time and interest. is also a member of Worlds Foremost Gay & immediately. This won't work safely in a two assist women who wish to have a New wheel drive vehicle. Please e-mail me any other automotive related Lesbian Hotels (www.worldsforemost.com), questions. They do not Hampshire civil union ceremony. Over the and has consistently been selected by As far as which model, your decision! All years, the Inn has been the site of dozens of models are equally safe and reliable. have to be Subaru related. Happy Motoring. PlanetOut as a top destination for women.

Volunteers! Date: May 3, 2008 Vendors! Advertisers! CALL 413.586.5602 Time: 12 Noon to 5 p.m. Place: Lampron Park to Downtown Northampton Parade starts at Lampron Park. Rally starts when parade ends at parking lot behind Main St. Rally includes speakers, musicians, drag, comedy, Kids Zone & More! FMI: www.northamptonpride.org; 413.586.5602 or 877.743.3627 www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • 19 LGBT Diversity News New WORLD Theater to host Intersection V! Intersection V: Creative UpRising(s) will neur, leader and activist from Mexico City. Recognized as one of the pioneers of spoken take place April 4-6, 2008, at New WORLD She is the co-founder of Las Patronas, a radi- word, Regie Cabico has appeared on HBO’s Theater, on the campus of the University of cal women’s performance art company. Def Poetry Jam and is the artistic director of Massachusetts, Amherst. For more infor- Rodríguez’s work utilizes the classics to pres- Sol & Soul, a Washington, DC arts & activist mation, visit www.newworldtheater.org ent perspectives on contemporary issues. Her organization. Always raunchy and riveting, Begun in 1998, New WORLD Theater’s April 5th keynote address will be open to con- Cabico is sure to top off Saturday’s program- biennial Intersection conference and festival ference participants, and will be presented in ming with a splash! examines new work practices by artists of Spanish, with live English translation. Intersection V will also include performanc- color and showcases multidisciplinary theater After a long and stimulating day of panels es open to the general public. Project 2050, pieces on the cutting edge of new aesthetics. and performances, join a late-night open mic New WORLD Theater’s youth program, will Intersection V will include performances, and DJ party hosted by the fabulous, hilarious perform The Love in Revolution, on Friday, artist workshops, panel discussions, dialogues and always unexpected Regie Cabico! April 4 at 8 p.m., as well as the and keynote addresses covering topics on LENELLE MOÏSE Community/One showcase on Saturday at 2 activist art and cultural organizing; youth aes- race, class, gender and resistance. Moise will PM, and the very first public performance of thetics, action and leadership; and artistic be performing excerpts from her solo show, poet Suheir Hammad’s multimedia event, praxis. New WORLD Theater will also host Womb-Words, Thirsting, directed by NWT’s breaking letter (s). All performances will be a pre-conference on Friday, April 4, dis- queer Artistic Director, Andrea Assaf. The at Bowker Auditorium, located in Stockbridge cussing the rise of an Arab-American cultural showcase will also feature D’Lo, a Tamil Sri Hall, on the campus of UMass-Amherst. movement. Lankan-American political theatre artist, Tickets are $15-general public; $8-senior citi- This year, Intersection V will feature sever- writer, comedian and music producer. D’Lo’s zens and low-income patrons; and, $5 for stu- al artists who are creating powerful and excit- work is a part of the vibrant tapestry that dents with valid I.D. To purchase tickets to ing performances on GLBTQ issues, rights, sheds light on many of the issues of our mod- any of the public performances, please call and experiences. Cherríe Moraga, Lenelle ern day society: brutality, justice, AIDS, sex- the Fine Arts Center Box Office at Moïse, Djola Branner, D’Lo, Regie Cabico, uality, political and social unrest and division 413.545.2511. Conference rates range from and Jesusa Rodríguez will be participating in along ethnic and gender lines. Conference $95-$300, which includes admission to this year’s conference. registration includes the Community/One per- keynote addresses, artist workshops, plenary Cherríe Moraga, renown playwright, essay- formances, and for general audience, tickets sessions and public performances. Visit the ist and poet whose work has been foundation- can also be pruchased from the UMass Fine NWT website for program details or to regis- al to women of color feminism, will partici- Arts Center box office. ter for Intersection V: Creative UpRising(s). pate in an Open Studio rehearsal of her play, The Intersection V conference also includes Register before March 20 for discount rates! The Hungry Woman. A lesbian Chicana re- a workshop on The Performance of www.newworldtheater.org telling of Medea, The Hungry Woman will be Biography with Djola Branner, who is cur- performed in the Curtain Theater at UMass in rently an Assistant Professor of Theater at D’LO early May. Moraga will be in dialogue with Hampshire College. Branner is a co-founder lesbian director Dora Arreola, and the local of the critically acclaimed performance cast, giving conference participants an inside group, Pomo Afro Homos. He has created look into the process of preparing a play for numerous original performances, such as The full production. House that Crack Built, Sweet Sadie and The 2 p.m. matinee performance Mighty Real: A Tribute to Sylvester, and con- Community/One on Saturday, April 5, in tributed to such anthologies as Voices Rising, Bowker Auditorium is a showcase of ground- Colored Contradictions and Staging Gay breaking solo artists that will include two Lives. New WORLD Theater will also be important GLBTQ writer-performers. presenting a new theater creation by Djola Lenelle Moïse is a self-identified “culturally Branner in the Fall 2008 season. hyphenated pomosexual poet” who creates Saturday afternoon’s keynote speaker, personal political texts about the spirits in Jesusa Rodríguez, is an internationally promi- sexuality, masculinities, and being bicultural nent lesbian director, actress, playwright, (Haitian-American), at the intersection of performance artist, scenographer, entrepre-

CAROL WILLIFORD BOOKKEEPING PLUS

ACCOUNTING and TAX SERVICES 4 Stanley Street Easthampton, MA 01027 Phone/Fax: (413) 529-0889 • E-mail: [email protected] 20 • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com QueerWood Deep Inside Hollywood: Where are they now? By: Romeo San Vicente to whip these chorines into shape. Still not light this movie! gay enough for you? Perhaps Romeo should Lifetime Gets Mean with Fab Five Murphy and Page mention that this show will be hosted by none It would seem that gay men and junior high Form a Triangle other than Showgirls star Elizabeth ("Thrust school girls are the prime marketing demo- Irish actor Cillian it!") Berkley. Shine up your taps, kids—this graphics for movies about bitchy cheerlead- Murphy may be best sounds like one you won't want to miss. ers, making it a tough genre to resist. Well, known in this country now Lifetime has succumbed to the genre's for his villainous turns Bret Easton Ellis' Latest Is a Downer steely charms, too. The Fab Five: The Texas in Batman Begins and Bret Easton Ellis is simply cooler than most Cheerleader Scandal, starring Tatum O'Neal, Red Eye, but he also received a Golden Globe people. He wrote American Psycho, after all. is on its way to an HD screen near you and, as nomination for his dazzling performance as a The fact that his public commentary on his is usually the case, it's based on a true story. It transgender singer in Neil Jordan's Breakfast sexuality has ranged over the years from seems that a small clique of mean-girl cheer- on Pluto. Murphy will have another chance to "Yep, I’m quite possibly gay" to "Can we just leaders ran roughshod over anyone they didn't tap into his feminine side with Peacock, in not bother talking about it?" only serves to like and almost got away with it, until a coach which he plays a small-town man with a split draw attention to the terrifically deranged blew the whistle and called foul. What better personality - he's a husband and wife, all nature of his work. From Less Than Zero to punishment, then, than to immortalize the wrapped up in one body, whom the locals his latest novel, Lunar Park, Ellis knows what girls' evil antics in a TV movie, and who bet- think are separate people. Trouble occurs CILLIAN MURPHY it means to be modern and miserable. The ter than the star of Little Darlings to add some when a young mother (Juno cutie Ellen Page) Supermodel, could the cable network Bravo film version of Lunar is currently "in produc- authenticity? No word on an air date yet. But falls in love with Murphy's male side, prompt- get any gayer? Of course! Now they've got tion," meaning it'll be seen who-knows-when. Romeo’s TiVo will be there. ing a conflict between the married pair he's Step It Up and Dance, premiering April 3, fea- But Ellis has a screenplay in the works that's got inside of him. Michael Lander makes his turing a dozen hoofers competing to see even more intriguing. Titled Downers Grove Romeo San Vicente thinks all male cheerlead- directorial debut with Peacock, which should whose toes are the twinkliest. Four of the con- and adapted from the novel by Michael ers are national heroes. He can be reached strut into theaters in 2009. testants are gay - so far, anyway, but more Hornburg, it concerns a high school girl who care of this publication or at revelations could emerge before the show knows that someone in her school will die at [email protected]. Bravo Takes Another Step into Gay TV goes on the air - and openly fabulous graduation in a strange way. So think Final After Queer Eye and Boy Meets Boy and Broadway choreographer Jerry Mitchell Destination with more disaffection and horny Project Runway and Top Chef and Make Me a (Hairspray, Legally Blonde) will be on hand teenagers. In other words, Hollywood, green- www.therainbowtimesnews.com Theme, Speakers and Performers Announced for Transgender Pride March and Rally Join The Pony Express (Northampton, MA)—The organizers of the will include the Boston-based drag troupe All first New England Transgender Pride March The Kings Men. and Rally (www.transpridemarch.org) have Other speakers include: Imani Henry, trans announced a theme and preliminary list of community activist and performer in New speakers and performers for the event. The York City; Gunner Scott, director of the march, which will step off at noon on June 7 Massachusetts Transgender Political at the Bridge Street School in Northampton, Coalition; Jerimarie Liesegang, executive MA is being planned around the theme director of the Connecticut TransAdvocacy Remember Stonewall? That was us! Coalition; Vickie Boisseau, Intersex activist; "Our theme proudly celebrates the central Ethan St. Pierre of TransFM radio; role transgender and gender non-conforming Moonhawk River Stone, psychotherapist, persons played in the Stonewall Rebellion and trans educator, and board member of The in the LGBT Movement that it sparked. The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force rally will help advance a new Transgender Foundation, Inc.; Alex Pangborn of Movement which is needed today to achieve Generation Q; and Enoch Page, associate pro- critical gains in civil rights protections based fessor of Anthropology at the University of on gender identity and gender expression," Massachusetts, Amherst. said Bet Power, a member of the march's Other entertainers include FTM folksinger steering committee. Lee Elder, novelist Ellen Wittlinger, and Miss The rally, which will begin at 12:30 p.m. in Trans Northampton. Additional speakers and Veterans Field in Northampton, will be head- performers will be announced in the coming lined by Leslie Feinberg, a pioneering trans- weeks. gender writer whose books include Stone "We are very excited to have such an Butch Blues, Transgender Warriors, and Drag impressive lineup," states Dru Levasseur, a King Dreams; and Miss Major, a veteran of local FTM attorney and member of the Stonewall who directs the Transgender, march's steering committee. "The number of Gender Variant, and Intersex Justice Project, leading speakers and performers wanting to which advocates for the human rights of participate shows the importance of the event transgender prisoners. Featured performers for many people in the trans community." www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • 21 Local Releases & More Couch from Page 2 Rape would increase” or “Too many of one piece bathing suits. And her daughter, Q Puzzle: “Out, That Is” them couldn’t keep their eyes on the road; who had always just run around the backyard there’d be too many accidents” blah blah blah topless, insisted on her bathing suit. She blah … Poppy Cock! (No pun intended.) knew, already somehow, that it was “wrong” I think men are perfectly capable of control- for her to be topless. Then they all stared at ling themselves. (Women are certainly the free-abandon child, like she was a wild expected to control themselves.) In fact, stud- savage. ies have shown that in nudist colonies, violent Little girls have exactly the same upper crime and rape go way down when men are body definition as little boys, yet they are exposed to (gasp!) a woman’s bare breast. Or required (shamed) to wear bathing suits to even a pair of them. cover themselves, many years before any In countries where women don’t wear upper breasts have even a thought of developing.. torso garments, men don’t stare constantly. Shame. Shame on us. For accepting this They’ve acclimated to the situation. And ulti- ongoing, egregious sleight against our gender. mately, 100 years ago, it would have been But we’ve come so far, you say! Jane unthinkable for a woman to wear a halter top, Fonda and Betty Friedan and Madonna – oh or a sleeveless shirt. We’ve grown used to my! The woman’s movement of the ‘60s and seeing these things in our lives and they have the ‘70s was just the beginning—not the end become acceptable. —not by a long shot. Remember poor Janet Jackson with her We have much work to do. And bras to “wardrobe malfunction?” The most interest- burn. ing thing I noticed was that her nipple had I can see why our Female- to-Male trans sis- some metallic sun piercing, which covered ters have lost their breasts, happily – to her areola. Yet, somehow that was something reclaim a right they know belongs to us. The to be ashamed of, and society was quick to freedom to be without our shirts, if we so throw stones. No real difference between that choose to take it off. and the women who wear Band Aids at the I sure hope they’ve lost the shame that Pride marches. Are people serious in their comes with being a woman, as they transition. belief that by covering the areola this some- Because that’s one thing men can’t possibly how makes it ‘less obscene,’ or more of a understand (not even if you have the breast problem? Because it looks just like what men implants, honey!). have on display! Shame—it comes wrapped up in nice little And it seems perfectly OK for men to show packages, with titles like modesty, shyness, their nipples out in public—what’s that all religious or conservative. But you can be about? So, explain to me, is it nipples that damn sure shame is buried in there, but good. can’t be shown, or free- falling breasts that we Here’s the kicker, there’s no good reason, Across Down have a problem with? And it can’t be only especially in America, for men to be the only 1 Nuts 1 Sheik's land, in song about the size of the breast, because, as we are ones to express top freedom, while women 5 Queen's "subjects" 2 Lesbian Dr. Equi aware in our increasingly obesity-risen times, are outlaws if they follow suit. So I say: 9 Tone of many Stein photos 3 Exams on sexual technique? 14 Internally pink 4 Rosie's partner some men have larger breasts than some “Protest, my friends!” 15 Screwdriver, e.g. 5 Vidal essay collection women! It can start in your own home, daring to dart 16 Cash drawers 6 Coward of Blithe Spirit What about women who have had mastec- in front of the window without your shirt on. 17 Asian inland sea 7 Trick's Spelling tomies? Surely, it shouldn’t be against the law Then maybe walking not so quickly, as time 18 Gay cable network 8 Gay ski weekends rides for those women to uncover their chests if goes on. Or try it in your own backyard. 19 Lover of Henry and June 9 Didn't leave the next morning they so choose—not if it’s all about the breast (Can you imagine strolling out to fill up the 20 Grace period on debts? 10 One to Rohm size, right? No, dear reader, because it’s not bird feeders? Hmm...) Perhaps start at the 23 Long, to a Samurai? 11 Iambs in "Hamlet," ungrammatically? about the size, or the shape, or how much nip- Michigan Women’s Music Festival, or on a 24 Out reply to "Are you gay?" 12 Eurythmics' "Would ___ to You?" ple is showing. It’s about power over women. topless beach, where it’s safe to do so. Maybe 25 Bundle of grain 13 The A of ILGA It’s about shame—shaming us to remember an outdoor hot tub, with the moon beaming 27 Apartment ___ 21 Unlike on a clear day our place. That’s one thing we’ll never be able down, your only witness. 30 Depp's cross-dressing role 22 Out in front 33 Have a ball 26 What S&M people are as smart as? to do proudly without a lot of struggle It can start with how you raise your daugh- 37 Pod in Craig Claiborne's gumbo 28 Hitchcock thriller based on Leopold and Loeb between now and then. ters—and your sons. But whatever you do, 39 Judy Garland concert persona 29 Rubber-stamping Shame. It’s something we learn when we’re work towards educating your fellow women 40 Booty 31 Award for Cherry Jones barely old enough to understand; yet it creeps (and men) that it is your constitutional right to 41 Went undercover 32 "___ Thou Remember Me?" (Dickinson) in, unspoken, permeating our little selves with bear your breasts, (as well as your arms), in 42 Inflamed end? 33 Desire Under the ___ barely a word. A look or a glance is all it the United States of America! 43 Like some beds 34 He took on a pair of bears takes. Suzan Ambrose can be heard on her radio 44 Glinda portrayer in The Wiz 35 Nancy McKeon character full of life? A colleague of mine, a strong, feminist, program, The Naked Truth, Monday evenings 45 King's defeat of Riggs, e.g. 36 SNL's Cheri proud lesbian, told me a story about her young at 8 p.m., and 2 a.m. Tuesdays, on 103.3FM, 46 Wine from the land of Lorca 38 Make a hole bigger daughter. She said she’d never forget the day Northampton. Or streaming on the web at 48 AIDS org. 41 In a foxy way 50 Poppers containers 45 NCAA home of the Bruins her little girl turned to her and wanted to keep www.valleyfreeradio.org. For more of Suz’s 52 State of polar bears 47 Stick it to McKuen her shirt on. She had a few friends over to run thoughts, check out her website at: 57 Sophie B. Hawkins' "___ Lay Me Down" 49 "The Wizard of Oz" scorer Arlen under the sprinkler in the backyard, on a hot www.nakedtruthshow.com 59 Stevie Wonder song about Chastity's mom? 51 E with a queer orientation summer day. One girl just ripped her shirt off 62 Burton with Roots 53 Cockeyed and started playing. The other two put on their 64 Mark Bingham of United Flight 93 54 Rutstein of Disappear Fear 65 Letters over Mary's son 55 Some Iranians 66 Williams' significant other 56 Horny one in the zodiac? Support the advertisers who 67 Place for a Rivera mural 57 Cathedral of Hope collection 68 West ___ Story 58 Penetrate slowly support our communities! 69 Go lickety-split 60 Load Are YOU paying attention? 70 Did a bad imitation of Bette Davis 61 Island of Lost Souls director Kenton 71 Femme character in Mango Kiss 63 Heady stuff TRT now also in NY! Solution of Puzzle on Page 22 22 • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com Queer Voices from NY Lesbian Notions: The best men and women for the job By: Libby Post folks to the new president's transition team as the governor’s liaison to the lesbian and New York State, Obama may forgo the tradi- I have to admit when I just because they're part of our community. gay community. She then went on to become tional way of doling out jobs and look for the first read about the Gay They have to have credible professional back- the president of the state's Civil Service best and the brightest—folks with talent who and Lesbian Leadership grounds, with the skills, insight, and intelli- Commission, and eventually became the weren't even looking for a government posi- Institute's (GLLI) gence to carry out the policy initiatives of a highest ranking openly gay person in the tion. "Presidential new administration. They should be LGBT White House serving in the Clinton adminis- That's what happened to David Hansell, an Appointments Project," individuals who have distinguished them- tration, as the assistant to the president for openly gay man, whose government expertise to make sure there are selves beyond the work they have done in our management and administration - she basical- ranges from advocating on behalf of people plenty of LGBT folks in community. ly ran the day-to-day operations at 1600 living with HIV/AIDS for the Gay Men's the new administration, I thought it was a bit "I think those people in the gay community Pennsylvania Ave. Health Crisis, to being the Chief of Staff at the presumptive. who have worked for the common interest "I didn't go to the White House as a gay New York City Human Resources Don't we have to win the election first? have clearly developed skills and talents that activist, but as a person with 15 years experi- Administration. He never put his name in for And then I thought, we might as well be any new administration would want," said ence in administration," she told me in a his new job as New York State Commissioner prepared. I'm sure many of the other "special Ginny Apuzzo, a longtime activist for LGBT recent phone interview. of the Office of Temporary and Disability interest"-type communities—African rights and a West Wing alum. Having experience, a breadth and depth of Assistance. Someone sent his resume to Americans, Latinos, people of faith, labor, "If you want to be in the White House, I knowledge, political acumen - these are what Spitzer, who saw in David a commitment to etc.—are starting to line up for jobs. We would say, work in your community, but then any new administration will be looking for. public service and to helping those in need. should be, too—after all, it's all about visibil- move your community beyond itself, and If McCain is elected, it will be politics as David is one of those people who has helped ity, isn't it? develop an expertise that gives you the cre- usual, and the majority of us - except for a few move our community beyond our own issues GLLI is run out of the Lesbian and Gay dentials to run an agency in the federal gov- gay GOPers—can keep our day jobs. If it's by working for the greater good. Victory Fund, and its president and CEO is ernment." President Obama, as I think it will be, we As the Presidential Appointments Project Chuck Wolfe - who's also the president and Apuzzo's own career reflects her perspec- have to be prepared for a new way of doing moves forward and resumes roll in, it will CEO of the Victory Fund, which is all about tive. She served at executive director of the business. behoove those vetting credentials to make electing LGBT candidates to office through- National Lesbian and Gay Task Force early in "Obama talks about bring a new mindset to sure the folks they put forward are the folks out the land. They've done a good job of it, the organization's history, and worked tire- Washington," said Apuzzo. "That's the keen- who can move us forward as well. too. We have more LGBT elected officials lessly for LGBT rights - but didn't box herself est statement that he makes—not just new now than ever before. And by and large, these into just working in LGBT organizations. She personnel, but a new way of thinking and not Libby Post is the founding chair of the Empire are elected officials who happen to be LGB or taught; she worked in New York City govern- the old way of doing things." State Pride Agenda and a political commentator T. For the most part, fighting for our rights is ment. When I met Ginny, she was the deputy If that's the case, lining our folks up with on public radio, on the Web, and in print media. just part of their platforms for change. commissioner of the New York State resumes and sitting down with transition She can be reached care of this publication or at When we look at presidential appointments, Consumer Protection Board during the teams may not be what waits for us after [email protected]. we can't simply out forward the names of Cuomo administration, where she also served Election Day. Like Eliot Spitzer has done in Remnants of ‘Rent’ survive in now trendy East Village By: Verena Dobnik/AP Writer scruffy courtyard, old brownstones, rusty Houston Street. A one-bedroom rents for as timeless,” James Nicola, the workshop's artis- NEW YORK (AP)—From the tiny East pipes and fire escapes. much as $4,000 in the area where “Rent” tic director, says. Village theater where “Rent” was born, you Even when “Rent” opened in 1996, the East roommates Mark and Roger lived for free, “Rent” dared announce that AIDS was part can still catch a glimpse of the funky neigh- Village was gentrifying. Well-heeled new- thanks to an old friend who owned their build- of America, along with drug addiction and borhood where the hit musical was set — a comers were moving in and rising rents were ing—but, as the musical opens, is demanding young people fleeing middle-class suburbia to displacing the bohemians who inspired the rent they can't afford to pay. live among artsy squatters and the homeless. Q Puzzle Solution from P. 21 show. In the nearly two decades since the fiction- The show, whose title also means “torn On June 1, after a dozen years, Broadway's al drama took place, restaurant prices have apart,” became an emblem of Generation X seventh-longest running show is to become skyrocketed, except in throwbacks like the the way “Hair” was a touchstone for baby history, like the once-gritty neighborhood graffiti-plastered Mars Bar and the Life Cafe, boomers. that's nearly gone as well. where some of the defiant, joyful revelry of Sadly, Larson died at 35 of an aortic “It was amazing to be living in the world the production takes place. aneurysm just hours after the dress rehearsal you're playing on stage,” says Anthony Rapp, Today's sophisticated young hipsters are for the show's opening. Months later, “Rent” an original cast member who lived in the East more likely to flock to the sleek, trendy noo- moved to Broadway, going on to win the Village for many years and played the part of dle bar Momofuku, known for its bowls of Pulitzer Prize and four Tonys, and drawing Mark, a budding filmmaker shooting a movie Japanese ramen topped with Carolina whole- sellout crowds for more than a decade. about his friends. hog barbecue. With a total gross of more than $280 million “Rent” was an instant sensation when it According to longtime “Rent” director on Broadway and about $340 million on the opened, dubbed an “exhilarating, landmark Michael Greif, the show's message has tran- road, Broadway ticket sales had started to slip rock opera” by The New York Times, and scended the changing demographics of the in the past half year. The producers decided when it moved to Broadway, The Associated neighborhood. the box-office take didn't meet costs and they Press said the show made the transfer with “It's about how people support and boost couldn't keep running the show. “all its raw energy, raucous musicality and other people, how friends can become family On a recent Saturday evening, however, the radiant optimism intact.” and how you measure a life by how much lov- Nederlander Theatre was packed with specta- The Healing Way A contemporary take on Puccini's 1897 ing you have done,” he says. tors who rose to their feet to applaud a musi- opera “La Boheme,” it tells the story of a The musical was created in the early 1990s cal that continues to attract young Dr. Renee Lang, ND group of friends, among them gays, lesbians in a white brick row house on East Fourth “Rentheads,” some of whom have seen the Naturopathic Doctor and drag queens who live in the East Village Street that houses the New York Theatre show dozens of times. Serving 2 locations: around 1990, struggling to make art and find Workshop, still a not-for-profit incubator for With the musical still touring the country, love amid poverty, HIV and drug addiction. new talent. Jonathan Larson, the show's cre- most of the original cast, including Rapp, can 16 Armory St., #9 Much of that world has given way to luxu- ator, worked on “Rent” in a loft rehearsal still be seen in a 2005 movie based on the Northampton, MA 01060 Phone: 413.582.0303/Fax: 413.582.0355 ry condos, boutiques and galleries on the room—a space with a quaint fireplace, an Broadway production. avenues and upright piano, a skylight and windows that Rapp, who says he considers the East 200 Clark Ave. Singles NY? side streets look out on a courtyard ringed by old brown- Village his emotional home even though he Brattleboro, VT south of East stones off the once drug-infested Bowery. has moved to the nearby neighborhood of Phone: 802-254-4369 NY Local Listings! 14th Street and “The 'Rent' songs capture something about Check out p. 15 north of those times, about that experience, that is www.thehealingway.net See Rent on Page 23 www.therainbowtimesnews.com • The Rainbow Times • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • 23 Queer Sports & Q Classifieds The OutField: Friday Night Lights Turn Dark Raiders Night is the be a stable force and keep the team together. But, he notes, "any implication of homosexu- novel J.D. Salinger That's the good side of jockdom." ality makes a lot of people really nervous. might have pro- The bad side appears early in Raiders Night. Young athletes have been conditioned to think duced, had he not Ramp, a captain, takes Nearmont High's initi- a certain way. If you're in band, you can meet stopped writing in ation rite too far. Matt - another captain, and different people in a safe harbor. But jocks 1965 and had the book's narrator - is sickened by the base- have been conditioned by coaches to loathe Holden Caulfield ball bat assault. But he, too, is assaulted - by and fear 'the other' - opponents, the vicious been a morally con- competing pressures from his fellow captains, English teacher who makes you get extra flicted high school teammates, coaches, and father—and spends help, girls who take your mind away from the football captain, not the rest of the novel grappling with his own big game, gay people. They can all break up a a cynically idealistic feelings of responsibility. team's camaraderie and spirit. prep school student. There are gay subplots - Chris is rumored to "I think a lot of gay athletes are 'purged' Robert Lipsyte's Raiders Night does for be queer, and after Matt loses his erection through high school, because sports is such a scholastic sports what Catcher in the Rye did with a hot girl, he wonders about his own sex- homophobic atmosphere," Lipsyte continues. for teenage wanderlust: It captures young uality—but Raiders Night is not really a gay- "Calling someone a faggot or a sissy is a readers' attention through vivid characteriza- themed novel. It's about jock culture in gener- cheap, cynical way to manipulate boys." tion, realistic dialogue, and life-like dilem- al. Lipsyte's book is so realistic that - as is often mas. Which drives adults up a wall. Lipsyte says, "It's both exhilarating and true with teenagers—it's unclear whether the Lipsyte—author of two dozen books, a depressing that high school athletes have the character Chris really was gay. What does the Pulitzer Prize finalist, and American Library same feelings I had 50 years ago: 'Am I good author say? Association honoree for lifetime contribution enough? Am I a man?' The problem is, today "I suspect he was not. But I don't know if he'd to young adult literature—calls Raiders Night so many people see football as a crucible for figured things out. The real question is, was "Friday Night Darks." Sizzling with more sex getting kids ready for life and war. They don't Ramp, the player who assaulted him, gay? He than Holden Caulfield could dream of; see it for what it is: a desperate place where come." could have been. I don't know that one either." enough steroids, weed, and Vicodin to keep coaches and fathers think violence is an It's hard to tell, the author adds, whether the That's the real value of Raiders Night. Like all the DEA busy for years; and a graphic hazing acceptable form of action." "dis-invitations" have to do with the dead-on good young adult literature from Catcher in scene in which Chris, a talented sophomore, is Lipsyte's pulsating descriptions of sex, drugs, teenage language, the casual (and often cal- the Rye on, it raises more questions than it sodomized with a baseball bat, it reaches far and brutality—on the field and off, in boy-girl lous) sex, the pill-popping, the hypocrisy and answers. And it makes readers think. beyond anything Friday Night Lights ever relations as well as in hazing - resonate with complicity of most adults, or the rape scene. Dan Woog is a journalist, educator, soccer dared portray. teenagers across the country. Young readers e- "I think it comes down to the fact that this is a coach, gay activist, and author of the "Jocks" The book's genesis dates to 1999, when mail him, relating their own feelings of fear, darker look at sports than most people are pre- series of books on gay male athletes. Visit his Massachusetts high school football captain inadequacy, and confusion. pared to look at," Lipsyte says. "Of course, website at www.danwoog.com. He can be Corey Johnson came out. Lipsyte, who chron- Adults are confused, too—about how to han- there's no question a more muted description reached care of this publication or at icled the process for the New York Times, dle such hot topics. "Teachers and librarians of the hazing would have been easier. Even a [email protected]. heard a freshman complain about showering like it a lot," Lipsyte says. "I get an amazing lot of kids found it pretty rough." with "a gay guy." Johnson's co-captain said, flood of invitations to speak around the coun- "You're a football player. Suck it up." try. But invariably, a couple of weeks later I LGBT STATS - WHY ADVERTISING IS SO IMPORTANT! "He took his role as captain seriously," get a sheepish e-mail dis-inviting me. Lipsyte explains. "It was his responsibility to Someone decided it would be better if I didn't 78% OF GAY AND LESBIAN ADULTS & 77% OF HET- More Calendar of Events from p. 16 April 13; 8:00 p.m.; Vidur Kapur, gay, South Asian EROSEXUALS are likely to consider a BRAND that is known to PRO- stand-up comic. Location TBA William’s College Events, FMI: 413-597-3353. VIDE EQUAL WORKPLACE BENEFITS for all of their employees, includ- April 3; Time/LocationTBA. Williams Bi-Gay- April 30th; 8:00 p.m.; Hardy House, 20 Morley ing GAYS & LESBIANS. Drive, Williamstown. Williams Bi-Gay-Lesbian- Lesbian-Trans-Alumni Association Stonewall Source: Witeck-Combs Communications/Harris Interactive, Feb. 2007 Speaker Series presents Rives Kistler ''71; Trans-Alumni Association Stonewall Speaker Supreme Court Judge in Oregon. Series presents Dena Zaldua, of the National Center for Lesbian Rights. PERSONALS April 4; 5:00 p.m.; Jenness House, 10 Morley Drive, Williamstown, MA. Art Exhibit Opening Maybe more. Contact: Ashley at Rent from Page 22 Women 4 women Reception.The Canvas Project presents Man Looking to meet women in the [email protected] NoHo, speculated about what HIV-posi- Made by Allison Golinkoff. A series of Art Exhibits Springfield/Northampton MA area for friendship Men 4 Men exploring issues of transgenderism. tive Roger and Mark might be like now, with the advent of more effective AIDS and fun! Diva's, Oz, dinner/coffee/drinks in NoHo GWM, 37, seeks companionship in the April 8; 8:00 p.m.; Paresky Theater. Talkin' Trash drugs. or Springfield. Movies, the beach, you name it let's Northampton area. Contact: Martin at 413-527- in the Homo No Mo Halfway House, a lively lec- “Roger would have lived because of the new get together and do it! Contact Kris at dolphin- 1533. ture about gay reparative therapy and the Ex-gay [email protected] AIDS drugs and Mark might have found a Hey, 18 yo looking for a man in Western MA, for movement, with Peterson Toscano April 12th. way to be part of the new media,” he said. Looking for other women for outdoor activities; romantic relationship... under 20 ONLY. Thanks. Rocky Horror Picture Show screening at Images Rapp, 36, has moved on to other work, but biking, hiking, and cross country skiing. I like to Contact: Josh at [email protected] Cinema (tentative) says that he and other cast mem- cook, especially coming up with healthy tasty Lesbian Best Sellers* bers haven't left “Rent” complete- BiCurious Gay Best Sellers* ly behind. recipes. Walks in the woods, sitting by a cozy fire, SWBiF looking for friendship and possibly more in 1. When Night is Falling 1. East Side Story “There's an idealism at the core of enjoying all life has to offer. Contact: Springfield/Noho area. Very new to scene and test- 2. She Likes Girls 2 [email protected] 2. Surveillance 24/7 'Rent' and in us,” he says. “There ing the waters. Great sense of humor and kind 3. The Gymnast are so many things in our every- 3. Boy Crush Hey. just checking it out - I am new to boston and heart. College educated and intelligent. Contact 4. Tick Tock Lullaby day life now that tell us, 'No, no, 4. The Bubble looking to meet some friends who like to have fun!! Ashley at [email protected] or call 5. The L Word: Season 4 no.' 'Rent' says, 'Yes, yes, yes!”' 6. A Love To Keep 5. Shelter 7. Sonja 6. Boys Love Capital District of NY? HELP WANTED 8. Spider Lilies 7. Glue NO PROBLEM! 9. femme a femme 8. Outing Riley This could have been you ad, Sales People Needed only for $25 p/month. Act now! Erotic... 9. A Very Serious Person TRT 10. The DL Chronicles: 413-204-8959 or 518-391-2617. FMI: 413-204-8959 • 518-391-2617 10. Ninas Heavenly 518.391.2617 The1st Season Delights * By wolfevideo.com * By wolfevideo.com 413.204.8959 TRT TRT 24 • March 6 - April 2, 2008 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesnews.com