The Vagina Monologues’

AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH SCISSOR SISTERS

PUBLISHER REFLECTS ON VISIT TO WHITE HOUSE

LANSING, FERNDALE PRIDE FESTIVAL COVERAGE VAGINAS TAKE BACK CAPITOL POLITICIANS, PLAYWRIGHT AND ACTRESSES UNITE FOR ‘THE VAGINA MONOLOGUES’

PRIDESOURCE.COM JUNE 21, 2012 | VOL. 2025 | FREE 2 BTL \ June 21, 2012 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com June 21, 2012 / BTL 3 6.21.2012 Cover story 10 | Heard on Facebook The benefits of the gay gene 4 | Vaginas take back the Capitol Politicians, playwright, actresses unite on the 10 | S/he Said Capitol steps for “The Vagina Monologues” Bigotry and the Boy Scouts Large photo: Protestor carries sign reading “I can’t believe we still have to deal with this shit” Photo: Todd Heywood; Inset photo of State Rep. 12 | Parting Glances Barbara Byrum Byrum, State Rep. Lisa Brown, No believe it or why not? playwright Eve Ensler, State Sen. Rebekkah Warren (D- Ann Arbor). Photo: Bridgette Redman News Life

5 | Petitions filed to recall Troy Mayor 17 | Sister Act Daniels makes more antigay Jake and Ana talk 10 years together, remarks on talk radio show who’s gayer and disco idols

6 | Sunny Rainbow Run, then rain for Ferndale 18 | Hear Me Out Pride Kylie Minogue keeps the compilations 7,000 converge on Ferndale, new coming. Plus: “Rock of Ages” surprises faces attend festivities

7 | 3K gather for festival, 1K for political rally 19 | General Gayety Puzzling out the Phelpsians 9 | National group’s work for older LGBT adults focus of Detroit gathering 22 | Cool Cities: Ann Arbor Older Adult Coalition moves closer Jim Toy Pride Dinner to award to forming SAGE chapter scholar, advocate Sandra Cole 11 | Saginaw LGBT banquet to honor local 27 | Ringwald’s Gay Play Series fills the bill activists, businesses, politicians with talent 12 | Novi arson latest in life of challenges for Stacy Barker 28 | Happenings Featured: Aretha Franklin on June 22 13 | NC couples sue federally for second parent adoption Rear View 15 | Between Ourselves Meet Tyler Bradley 30 | Puzzle

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Receive our E–Digest – just sign up Chat on our FB Fan Page. Search today online “Between The Lines Newspaper” 4 BTL \ June 21, 2012 \ Michigan News www.PrideSource.com Vaginas take back the Capitol Politicians, playwright, actresses unite on the Capitol steps for ‘The Vagina Monologues’

BY BRIDGETTE M. REDMAN

LANSING – Thousands showed up to the Capitol Monday night protesting the silencing of Rep. Lisa Brown, D-West Bloomfield, and Rep. Barb Byrum, D-Onondaga. In an event titled “Vaginas Take Back the Capitol,” female Democratic lawmakers and professional actresses from around the state were led by Tony Award-winning playwright Eve Ensler in a rally and a performance of Ensler’s “Vagina Monologues.” Nor did it seem to make much difference to protesters whether Michigan House Speaker Jase Bolger, R-Marshall, instituted the one-day speaking ban because Brown used the word “vagina” or whether it was because her saying “no means no” likened the bill to date rape. “I was really unbelievably disgusted by their First Amendment rights being violated,” said Andy Adamson, Ann Arbor, who attended the rally with his wife. “That’s why I have this sign: First aMENdment includes WOMEN.” Brown said she felt compelled to speak against a bill that she described as overturning Roe v. Wade. “I decided I needed to speak in opposition to this bill, because we’re not going to let legislators turn the clock back to the ‘60s where women didn’t have a right to abortion and weren’t Over three thousand people attended the rally and performance of the Vagina Monologues on the state capitol steps June 15. BTL photos Bridgette Redman. insured they were going to have access to safe health care,” Brown explained. “In my speech, know Speaker Bolger has probably used worse Theater in California and had but a single day comes from. I am over the Michigan state I made a few points, but I dared utter the word language at his country club than what he heard off which she spent flying to Michigan for the legislature refusing to let Lisa Brown speak ‘vagina.’ We shouldn’t be legislating vaginas if on that floor.” performance of “The Vagina Monologues.” because they find the word vagina contemptible you can’t say vaginas.” Not everyone was angry with Bolger, “I had to be here. Know why? Because these or out of bounds or lacking in decorum. My Byrum’s ban came after she objected to however. Penny Gardner, president of the women stood up for our rights…and they were vagina’s got decorum.” the Speaker not allowing her to speak to an Lansing Association of Human Rights, saw the shut down. No one can put the genie back in the On the Tuesday following the performance, amendment she had proposed to the abortion ban having at least one positive outcome, “If it bottle. The vaginas are out and we are here to Byrum said she would be speaking at an Obama bill being debated. mobilizes this many people to get here, I want stay,” Ensler said. rally and that she was fairly certain she would “I was denied the right to speak to my to thank Jase Bolger. I want to send him a thank- Monologues ranging from comic to tragic be allowed to say ‘vagina’ during it. amendment,” Byrum told the crowds Monday you note and tell him I think this is incredible. to reflective – but all involving the vagina – were “In fact,” she said, “I think they might be evening. “(The Speaker) gaveled my amendment We haven’t had this many people at the Capitol performed by both female legislators and many of upset if I don’t say it. I’m energized and I am so down. Then, being the daughter my mother raised for any of the things I support until now, and it the theater industry’s most recognized actresses. thankful my mom taught me to be an outspoken me – hi, Mommy! – I said ‘vasectomy,’ there I came in a heartbeat.” Clara Lepard, whose step-mother, Emily woman.” said it, and I was gaveled that I was out of order.” Sutton-Smith, was performing a monologue The protest drew people of all ages, from A speaker for Bolger, Ari Adler, said ‘Vagina’ heard everywhere about a Bosnian woman who was assaulted toddlers wearing onesies stating “Viva Vagina” Byrum’s ban the next day came not for saying repeatedly in a rape camp, was out supporting and “I’m grateful for my mom’s vagina” to ‘vasectomy,’ but “for marching through the While ‘vagina’ may have been banned on the performance because of the speaking ban. veterans of the feminist battles. chamber and shouting like a small child throwing the House floor, the word was in widespread “I think it is ridiculous, and I’m glad to “I am so tired of this fight, and I say it is a temper tantrum.” use Monday evening, from attendees chanting see so many people are out here and making a time for the young people to stand up,” said Amy Geishert from Lansing, who carried the word, to the signs being carried and by fuss because it deserves that sort of response,” Sandra Ducklow, 68, of Waterford. “Where are a sign at the protest Monday stating, “Male the 30-some performers of Ensler’s “Vagina Lepard said. the Gloria Steinems? Tell me. Bring them on.” Reps Have Opinions. Female Reps Have Monologues,” directed by Performance In an impassioned speech at the end of the Other signs expressed disbelief that this Temper Tantrums,” was offended by such Network’s associate artistic director Carla “Monologues,” Ensler listed all of the things she battle was still happening. “I can’t believe we still characterization. “It is sexist, plain and simple. Milarch. was over – focusing primarily on the violence have to deal with this S—T” was a sign carried (The democratic representatives) were making Ensler, who followed Brown and Byrum against women and those who value the life of by a woman dressed in turn-of-the-century respectful opinions. It is just a double standard. on the steps, was quick to praise all who came a fetus over the life of a woman. She said those emancipation style dress while another sign I’m very proud of them for standing up and out and the two legislators. “I am so proud of who are truly pro-life would have an entirely asked, “Didn’t we do this already?” having a press conference and (this event).” Michigan. I am so proud you came out. You have different attitude toward women. “It’s outrageous,” said Kathleen Herrick Lance Enderle, a candidate for U.S. sheroes here. You have sheroes in your midst.” “You will honor them and even worship of Okemos. “We fought this fight, I thought 40 Congress in the 8th District, agreed. Ensler is currently rehearsing a new play, their vaginas,” she said. “And there is nothing dirty or disgusting about the place that all life “What happened – that was uncalled for. I “Emotional Creature,” at Berkeley Repertory See Vagina, page 6 www.PrideSource.com Michigan News / June 21, 2012 / BTL 5 Petitions filed to recall Troy Mayor Daniels makes more antigay remarks on talk radio show

BY KATE OPALEWSKI the Troy Transist Center, Mayor Daniels put her ideology over the best interests of Troy PONTIAC – In an effort to remove the residents and business community. By attacking Mayor of Troy from office, members of the city employees with false and irresponsible Recall Janice Daniels (www.recalljanicedaniels. accusations, Mayor Daniels has driven out John com) campaign filed nearly 9,300 signatures Szerlag, the former City Manager, described by on 909 petition sheets of paper last week at the L. Brooks Patterson as ‘one of the best.’ Finally, Oakland County Courthouse. This is 15 percent with her controversial remarks, Mayor Daniels more than the 7,985 signatures required by law. has brought embarrassment and shame to the “We feel good. We’re very pleased and entire community.” really happy with the She faces further tremendous outpouring of criticism following her radio support,” said Troy resident interview last week with and campaign organizer Talk Radio 1270 host Charlie Matthew Binkowski about Langton. Mayor Daniels once turning the petitions in to again compared the dangers of the Elections Division of the the homosexual lifestyle to the Oakland County Clerk and dangers of cigarette smoking. Register of Deeds office. “What I said while I was The petitions were mayor…I was in a business collected by 125 “dedicated meeting, I come from a and tireless” volunteers business perspective…I said over the past three months. that I would bring a doctor “Most people we into a meeting that would say approached didn’t need that the homosexual lifestyle education on the issues is dangerous,” said Mayor surrounding Janice Daniels. Daniels on the air. “Had I been About three-fourths of them with a group of smokers, I signed the petition when asked. Her supporters, might have said I would like to bring a doctor into about one-fourth, were usually quiet and they just this meeting to say that smoking is dangerous.” declined to sign,” said Binkowski. “However, a After Langton asked whether the mayor few got vocal. Some got upset when you refuse felt it was dangerous to be gay, the Troy Patch to debate them for hours on end on their porch. reported, Mayor Daniels said she had no opinion, We actually had one guy heckle a volunteer at but noted, “I think that doctors can make a case the library. Another guy followed a volunteer on for it, certainly.” his bike. Other than that, they were relatively Mayor Daniels told the Troy Patch she does harmless.” not agree with the reasons she is being recalled. For those who weren’t aware of the issues, “The recall process is part of the representative the volunteers carried postcards which explained republican form of government that we have, some of the reasons for the recall efforts, as well so we let the process work the way it was as providing the campaign website address for intended to,” she said. “I think it’s designed more information. “Our volunteers can usually for when elected officials commit a crime, and summarize the situation in a minute or so. I’ve committed no crime.” Mayor Daniels said After hearing the facts, most people signed the she believes the failed recall of Wisconsin Gov. petition,” said Binkowski. Scott Walker is proof that citizens do not like Mayor Daniels has been the center of recalls. “I hope people will go to my website, controversy, both in Troy and nationwide, since janicetroymayor.com, to find out more about December of last year. Binkowski said her me,” she said. conduct provides an overwhelming case for Crime or not, Binkowski pointed out her recall. that Michigan’s Constitution and subsequent In a recent press release, he reiterated legislation (MCL §§ 168.951-168.976) permits the reasons why. “By referring to the City recall for any objectionable conduct during the Charter as a ‘whimsical’ document, the Mayor elected official’s term in office. “In contrast, demonstrated her lack of respect for the city’s own Constitution. By repeatedly voting against See Troy Mayor, page 15 6 BTL \ June 21, 2012 \ Michigan News www.PrideSource.com

A performance of the Vagina Monologues on the Capitol steps drew thousands.

® Vagina Continued from p. 6 years ago. Why are we here? I’m a mother and a grandmother. I don’t want my grandchildren to have to continue to fight this fight.” Sixteen-year-old Roman Collins from Lansing, dressed sharply in a dress shirt and tie carried a sign saying, “Stop Pussyfooting Around the Word Vagina.” After the “Vagina Monologues” were over, he approached Rep. Byrum and asked for her autograph on the sign – a request she said she was flattered to fulfill.

Ferndale Pride Weekend included the SE Michigan Dyke March, the Rainbow Run and dozens of volunteers that helped out over 7M attendees. BTL photos: Crystal The performers Proxmire. Find these and many other photos online at www.pridesource.com Those performing the monologues were: · Introduction – (Rep. Lisa Brown, D-West Bloomfield; Sen. Democratic Leader Gretchen Whitmer, D-East Lansing; Rep. Barb Byrum, Sunny Rainbow Run, then rain D-Onondaga) · Intro – Hair (Rep. Dian Slavens, D-Canton Township) · Hair (Jan Blixt) · “Wear and Say” Lists (Rep. Rashida Tlaib, for Ferndale Pride weekend D-Detroit; Rep. Vicki Barnett, D-Farmington Hills; Rep. Stacy Erwin Oakes, D-Saginaw) · Intro – The Flood (Rep. Ellen Cogen Lipton, D-MI 27th District) 7,000 converge on Ferndale, new faces attend festivities · The Flood (Ruth Crawford) events had various organizations involved, and against L. Brooks Patterson for Oakland County · The Vagina Workshop (Courtney Jo Dempsey- BY CRYSTAL A. PROXMIRE multiple beneficiaries including Affirmations, Executive, was also there along with Ferndale Burkett, Lynn Lammers, Lindsey Ford) Michigan AIDS Coalition, and The Ferndale Mayor Dave Coulter and Oak Park Mayor Marian · Vagina Happy Fact (Sen. Rebekah Warren, FERNDALE – When asked if the layers of Community Foundation which gives grants to McClellan. State Representative Lisa Brown, D-Ann Arbor) rainbow paint slowed her down, Hillary Herring other community projects. Over 30 volunteers who is now known as the State Representative · Intro – Because He Liked To Look At It (Rep. of Southfield laughed and said “No, not at all. took part in the planning process and over 100 who was censored by the state house Republicans Maureen Stapleton, D-Detroit) Actually it was kind of inspiring.” volunteers came out to help. The Rainbow Run for using the word “vagina” also attended. · Because He Liked to Look At It (Jennifer By the end of the 5k Rainbow Run in was an endeavor taken on by the Ferndale Area The balloons were released and the Graham) Ferndale June 18, she was covered in red, orange, Chamber of Commerce, and Project XYZ that festivities began, including the beer tent, · Intro – My Vagina Was My Village (Rana yellow, blue, green and purple-dyed corn starch organized Saturday’s Dyke March. multiple booths from organizations and vendors, Elmir) which was thrown as she ran past. She wasn’t Herring finished the Rainbow Run in 26 a kids’ area, and music from the main stage · My Vagina Was My Village (Chelsea Sadler, the only one. Five hundred runners took part, minutes and 30 seconds, with plenty of time to and from the newly remodeled back patio of Emily Sutton-Smith) some choosing the 5k and others doing just two. rest before the grand ceremony: the closing of Orchid, one of Ferndale’s many mixed-company · My Angry Vagina (Q’Amara Black, Mary Jo “This was not like other runs,” Herring said. Rainbow Run and the official start of Ferndale clubs. Cuppone, Eva Rosenwald) “It was more fun and it inspired me to not do Pride. · Intro – Reclaiming Cunt (Renee Chelian) races that don’t help causes.” She explained that Here hundreds of rainbow-covered runners · Reclaiming Cunt (Suzi Regan) seeing the way all the community organizations, met with another hundred or so Pride attendees New to Pride · Intro – The Woman Who Loved To Make volunteers and sponsors came together, combined in front of the stage for speeches and a balloon Vaginas Happy (Madison Deadman) with the Pride booths and concert stage gave the Of course there was the usual attractive release salute to the LGBT community. One- · The Woman Who Loved to Make Vaginas Rainbow Run “a totally different feel.” young people enjoying the opportunity to mingle thousand bio-degradable balloons in all the Happy (Julia Glander, Dana Sutton, Elitza “I have done the American Heart Foundation attending the festivities. Merchants with rainbow colors of the rainbow were released by a line Nicolaou) Run, the Free Press Marathon, and runs in Ann necklaces, tank tops and caramel corn was of elected officials including Oakland County · Intro – I Was There In The Room (Rep. Joan Arbor and Dexter, but from now on I’m only everywhere. Politicians and activists speaking Commissioners Craig Covey, Helaine Zack, Bauer, D-Lansing) going to do it if the profits go to charity. This up for equality could be found amid a sea of Marsha Gershenson, and Jim Nash who is · I Was There In The Room (Sally Pesetsky, one is perfect because it suits my beliefs and colorful outfits and cheering, dancing people. giving up his Commission seat in hopes of being Barb Christine, Naz Edwards) what I think is important, and I’d rather have my But also among the hundreds of Pride-goers were elected Water Resource Director for Oakland · Over It – (Eve Ensler) money go to that.” The Rainbow Run and other Ferndale Pride County. Kevin Howley, who is currently running See Ferndale Pride, page 7 www.PrideSource.com Michigan News / June 21, 2012 / BTL 7 LANSING: Thousands gather for party, 1M for political rally BY TODD A. HEYWOOD

LANSING – Nearly 1,000 people showed up on the steps of the Michigan Capitol Saturday as part of the annual pride march and rally event, while 3,000 showed up in Lansing’s hip Old Town to drink, dance and be merry as part of the annual pride festival. At the capitol, ralliers were greeted by a mass union ceremony conducted by Rev. Kent Lederer of Unity of Greater Lansing. Among the speakers at the rally were Diane Goddeeris, mayor of East Lansing; Joe MacDonald, a representative from Lansing Emily Dievendorf, policy director at Equality Michigan Mayor Virg Bernero’s office; Emily Dievendorf, addresses the rally Saturday. Later, dozens of couples are seen during the Commitment Ceremony policy director at Equality Michigan; R. Cole on the steps of the Capitol lead by Rev. Kent Bouck, president of the Michigan Gay Officers Lederer of Unity of Greater LansingBTL photos: Action League (MI-GOAL); Kevin Epling, co- Todd Heywood director of Bully Police USA; and actor James For Bouck, the rally was one of noting Duke Mason, who was brought in by the Obama history. As he spoke, he told the rally how campaign as a surrogate to address the gathering. in the 80s and 90s exiting the gay bars Goddeeris reminded participants the city on Michigan Avenue often meant having Introducing herself as “your big bi lobbyist,” in a year punctuated with such loses. of East Lansing earlier this year, celebrated the members of the Lansing Police Department Emily Dievendorf, policy director at Equality “We are on the cusp of equality,” she said. 40th anniversary of the nation’s first ever law to “toy” with you. Michigan laid out the last year in Michigan “But the closer we come, the taller the walls and prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual “That’s the historical context of what politics. It was a year of antigay legislative the thicker the walls are they make on our way to orientation, but noted not enough communities you saw coming up Michigan Avenue today,” moves, punctuated with legislation that banned equality.” Dievendorf asked rally participants to had followed suit. Bouck told the rally, referring to the contingent domestic partner benefits for public employees vow to each other to register and to vote in the “Today, 21 states, the District of Columbia of officers and vehicles from Lansing Police, and passage of a bill to allow counseling students coming elections. and over 141 cities prohibit discrimination on Ingham County Sheriff Department and East to refuse to counsel persons with whom they hold “A voice is progress. Many voices is many the basis of sexual orientation” she said. “But Lansing Police, as well as the Lansing Fire significant religious differences. votes, coming together,” she said, “it’s a game 18 cities in Michigan? C’mon!” department. “That’s big.” But Dievendorf sounded a note of optimism, changer.”

several new faces to the Pride experience. There were a noticeable number of presumably straight “We had so much diversity parents with their gay teens and youth, getting to know their children’s peers and showing their on the planning committee love and support. Eileen Long wore a Dyke March shirt when that when everything came she left her home in the Auburn Hills area to together we had a unique join her daughter Audrey as a volunteer for the Ferndale Pride event. She admitted that it was a event that none of us could challenge accepting her beloved little girl as a lesbian. “When I was Audrey’s age I worked in have imagined on our own.” the floral business and I had tons of gay friends. I was always so accepting. I didn’t think I had a homophobic bone in my body. But when she - Ferndale Pride organizer told me, it was like, different. It’s different when it’s your own child. Not like hate or anger, but and Oakland County I wanted to save her from a hard road. It struck me. And it took a while to get over that fear. But Commissioner Craig Covey I love my daughter. I don’t want to miss out on her life and being there for her when there are Audrey not only came out, but she those struggles. I don’t understand why some blossomed into what Eileen calls “a little of these parents can cut off their children. We dynamic powerhouse.” The 27-year-old Ferndale know people whose parents just took their stuff resident is on the board of the Dyke March and and threw it out on the lawn and said ‘get out.’ “ also one of the main organizers for Ferndale On the way to Ferndale, Eileen stopped Pride. “I came with her the first year…and this at a gas station. Like any other day she got out year I came to volunteer for her. When she was to pump her gas, and went inside to pay. But growing up I would clean houses and I would just wearing the Dyke March shirt made the bring her with me. She was always my right arm, experience much different. “For the first time always very helpful. And now I get to assist her. ever in my life I got that horrible judgmental look It makes me so proud.” from others. I felt it for the first time and it made Her advice to other parents is just to me feel so bad. These kids,” she said choking up a bit. “There are people that feel that judgment everywhere they go.” See Ferndale Pride, page 14 8 BTL \ June 21, 2012 \ Opinion www.PrideSource.com BTL Editorial Vol. 2025 • Issue 769 June 21, 2012 Thank you, Mr. President PUBLISHERS Susan Horowitz & Jan Stevenson BY JAN STEVENSON EDITORIAL “Welcome to The White House,” said Editor in Chief President Barack Obama to me and about 350 Susan Horowitz other activists at the Third Annual LGBT Pride [email protected] Reception June 15. Those simple words opened Entertainment Editor a floodgate of emotions for me. Prior to that Chris Azzopardi moment, the only other times I had been at The [email protected] White House I was outside protesting, and here I Associate Editor was inside being welcomed by our nation’s leader. Benjamin Jenkins “For every person who lost a loved one at [email protected] the hand of hate, we ended a decade of delay Arts & Theater Editor and finally made the Matthew Shepard Act the Donald V. Calamia, law of the land,” he said, and I was thrown back [email protected] into the moment in 1992 when I got the phone CREATIVE call telling me that Sue Pittman and Christine Art Director Puckett had been murdered by their homophobic David Ano, [email protected] neighbor. They had been my friends and fellow Webmaster & MIS Director board members at Affirmations. Kevin Bryant, [email protected] “For every American diagnosed with HIV who couldn’t get access to treatment, we put Production Assistant forward a National HIV/AIDS strategy - because Benjamin Jenkins, [email protected] who you are should never affect whether you get Contributing Writers Charles Alexander, Michelle E. Brown, life-extending care,” said the President. I said a Dana Casadei, Abby Dees, Jack Fertig, silent prayer for James Drain, my dear friend and Todd Heywood, Howard Israel, Lisa Keen, co-worker who died of AIDS in 1994 just months Richard Labonte, Michael H. Margolin, Jenn McKee, Jason Michael, Kate Opalewski, before the release of protease inhibitors that could The 2012 Presidential LGBT Pride Reception June Anthony Paull, Andrea Poteet, Crystal Proxmire, have saved his life. And I felt a wave of anger at 15 brought about 350 people into The White House. John Quinn, Eric W. Rader, Bridgette M. Redman, the ghost of former President Ronald Reagan who Pictured here in front of the Lincoln portrait are (left) Leslie Robinson, Romeo San Vincente, had refused to even say the word AIDS for six Jonathan Capehart of the Washington Post, BTL’s Gwendolyn Ann Smith, Jody Valley, publishers Susan Horowitz and Jan Stevenson, and D’Anne Witkowski, Dan Woog years as the epidemic raged like wild fire. “For every partner or spouse denied the Curtis Lipscomb, executive director of Detroit’s Kick. Cartoonists Photo courtesy of Curtis Lipscomb. Below is President Paul Berg, Dave Brousseau, Joan Hilty chance to comfort a loved one in the hospital, to Obama addressing attendees at the White House June be by their side at their greatest hour of need, we Pride gathering on June 15. Contributing Photographers said, enough. Hospitals that accept Medicare or Andrew Potter Medicaid - and that is most of them - now have to here today who are making such a big difference ADVERTISING & SALES treat LGBT patients just like any other patient,” in their classrooms and in their communities,” Director of Sales said Obama. I wished I could share that moment said Obama. At the reception after his speech I Jan Stevenson, [email protected] with my friend, David. In 1998, I had held his was able to thank Katy Butler in person who was there with her mother. Earlier this year, Butler, Sales Representatives hand through an excruciating funeral ceremony Ed Bohach, [email protected] for his lifelong partner, a ceremony in which the just 17, led a national campaign to get the rating Ann Cox, [email protected] family excluded him and refused to even mention agency to change the rating on “Bully” from R to PG13 so teenagers can see this important National Advertising Representative him in the eulogy – as if the love of his life never Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 existed. David died shortly thereafter, I believe documentary. of a broken heart. “And as long as I have the privilege of being Business Office your President, I promise you, you won’t just Diane Smith, [email protected] “And, of course, last year we finally put an Nancy Blankenship end to ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ – (applause) – so that have a friend in the White House, you will have nobody would ever have to ever again hide who Domanski who was fired from his job at Hudson’s a fellow advocate - (applause) - for an America Circulation & Distribution Department Store in the late 1980s because he is where no matter what you look like or where you Diane Smith they love in order to serve the country they love,” and my thoughts jumped to Ken Warnock who gay. Though painful and difficult for Jim, it turned come from or who you love, you can dream big Pride Source Media Group was the first person I ever met who was thrown out to be Hudson’s loss and our community’s gain dreams and dream as openly as you want.” 11920 Farmington Road out of the Navy for being gay. By all accounts as he went on to create Pronto! in Royal Oak, led Thank you Mr. President, on behalf of Sue, Livonia, Michigan 48150 an excellent sailor, Warnock had been subjected the creation of Steppin’ Out’s AIDS Walk and so Chris, James, David, Ken, Jim, Katy and all Phone 734.293.7200 • Fax 734.293.7201 many other LGBT projects. LGBT people who now have reason to hope for www.pridesource.com to a humiliating interrogation while serving Our rate cards are available online on a ship overseas, something no American “I want to acknowledge all the young leaders a more inclusive America. All material appearing in Between The Lines is protected by federal serviceperson will ever have to endure again. copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without “Now, we know we’ve got more to the permission of the publishers. Between The Lines is supported do. Americans may feel more comfortable “And, of course, last year we finally put an end to ‘don’t ask, don’t by many fine advertisers, but we cannot accept responsibility for bringing their partners to the office barbecue claims made by our advertisers, nor can we accept responsibility tell’ – (applause) – so that nobody would ever have to ever again for materials provided by advertisers or their agents. - (laughter) - but we’re still waiting for a fully Copyright 2012 Pride Source Media Group, LLC inclusive employment non-discrimination hide who they love in order to serve the country they love,” and my act. (Applause.) Congress needs to pass that legislation, so that no American is ever fired thoughts jumped to Ken Warnock who was the first person I ever met simply for being gay or transgender,” said the President, and I gave a silent nod to Jim who was thrown out of the Navy for being gay. www.PrideSource.com Michigan News / June 21, 2012 / BTL 9 Viewpoint National group’s work for older Taking care of ‘Family’: Exploring LGBT adults to be focus of the needs of our upcoming Detroit gathering LGBT elders Older Adult Coalition moves closer to forming SAGE chapter BY CURTIS LIPSCOMB AND KATHLEEN LATOSCH BY CRYSTAL PROXMIRE as possible,” said Tax. “The act provides which is a critical piece of SAGE outreach. for chore assistance, transportation, meals The Center is run with collaborations with a ince the mid-2000s there’s been a lot of buzz through programs like Meals on Wheels and dozen partner organizations and gives them in metro Detroit’s LGBT community about DETROIT – The gay rights movement home nutrition programs. There are a slew of a hub to provide information to three key what’s happening to and for our lesbian, is getting older and getting bolder, and on S June 23 LGBT older adults will come together programs to older communities. What we’re target audiences: LGBT Older Adults, Aging gay, bi and transgender older adults. And there’s doing with this is that the Act has no mention Networks that serve all senior citizens, and to good reason for it. There are an estimated 22,000 for a daylong conference on aging. The free of LGBT older adults.” share information with the LGBT community LGBT elders, ages 65 and better, living in Oakland, event will have workshops on topics that are Tax explained the three primary goals about the needs of their eldest members. Macomb and Wayne counties right now. Another important to people as they age, and folks will SAGE has in regard to the Older Americans Act. Tax is the keynote speaker for the Planning 20,000 will hit the 65-year-old mark by 2020. be invited to get involved in the Older Adult The first is to have older LGBT adults For The Future event. Other workshops will This tidal wave of aging baby boomers, known by Coalition, which is well on the way to becoming listed as group of greatest economic and social share information about health and wellness, mainstream aging service providers as the “Silver a SAGE Chapter (SAGE stands for Services and needs, like other demographic groups are. managing health care, protecting finances, Tsunami,” also comes in lavender and teal. Advocacy for GLBT Elders.) As the Older Adult Coalition moves “Funds come from the federal government and employment and volunteer opportunities and closer to becoming an official chapter of this are funneled through Area Agencies on Aging. older adult/youth networking. The event is free national organization, they’re LGBT older adults are three times pleased to welcome Aaron as likely to live in poverty due to Tax, the director of federal “I think people just don’t want to government relations for inequalities related to a lifetime services and advocacy for face growing old, so they ignore GLBT elders. Tax will be of workplace discrimination and talking about the problems the problems and they don’t get facing older adults and a lack of marriage benefits like sharing what his agency is involved. It’s like denial, if they don’t social security survivor payments doing in Washington to get as see it, it won’t happen to them.” much recognition and funding and tax-free inheritances. for serving the vulnerable older gay community. “I’m going to speak with - Aaron Tax, the director of federal In the spring of last year, Healing Detroit them and also want to learn government relations for services and the LGBT Older Adult Coalition both from them,” Tax said about Aaron Tax currently serves as the Director of Federal Government simultaneously hosted dialogues about this his upcoming visit. “We need Relations for Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders (SAGE), and advocacy for GLBT elders people to be educated and where he advocates for LGBT-inclusive federal aging policies that emerging issue. The findings were similar to what account for the unique needs of LGBT older adults. national experts are seeing around the country – involved and we need people LGBT older adults are living in fear and isolation. who will speak up for older Only 10 percent of LGBT elders have children to adults even though they’re not there yet… I We want to make sure when folks receive and includes continental breakfast and lunch. help care for them – as compared to 80 percent think people just don’t want to face growing this money that they reach out to the LGBT Planning For The Future takes place June of heterosexual elders. Seventy percent of LGBT old, so they ignore the problems and they don’t community and work with LGBT groups,” 23 at The Michigan State University Detroit seniors live alone, as compared to just 30 percent get involved. It’s like denial, if they don’t see Tax said. Campus is located , 3408 Woodward Avenue of straight seniors. LGBT older adults are three it, it won’t happen to them.” “Many LGBT adults are afraid to engage just south of Mack Avenue in Detroit. The times as likely to live in poverty due to inequalities SAGE has been serving LGBT older adults with the programs. This will say you have to facility is completely wheelchair accessible related to a lifetime of workplace discrimination since 1978 and has grown to 21 affiliates in 15 make efforts to reach out to LGBT community. with ample free parking adjacent to the building. and a lack of marriage benefits like social security states. While helping affiliates organize locally, They have to know what is available and they The event is brought to you by a survivor payments and tax-free inheritances. they also do political advocacy. have to be able to access these services.” Tax collaboration of LGBT and aging service Both summits revealed that metro Detroit’s “There are two primary areas we are said there are 600 areas on aging, 20,000 service organizations in the Metro Detroit Region, LGBT elders faced significant isolation. Today’s working on right now,” Tax said. “One is providers spread throughout the country. “This including: ACLU, Adult Wellbeing Services, LGBT elders find mainstream aging services in the Older Americans act. This is the primary little change of the law will have a big impact,” Affirmations, Area Agency on Aging 1-B, metro Detroit unwelcoming to LGBT people – vehicle for the organization and delivery of he said. KICK, Citizens for Better Care, The Jim Toy both direct care workers/staff and other service nutrition to older adults. It was part of Pres. The second change to the Older Americans Community Center, Oakland Family Services, recipients who came of age at a time when you Lyndon Johnson’s great society program, and Act would be to require funding for data and The Village of Redford. This event is made could be jailed or institutionalized for being gay. was created the same year as Medicare and collection of LGBTs as a group. “Data drives possible by a grant from the HOPE Fund. They also find a lack of aging services available Medicaid in 1965. funding,” he said. “Plus how can you know if through local LGBT organizations. Socially, “The primary purpose is to enable older Americans to stay at home in their communities you are meeting the needs of a community if many older gay men feel isolated and left out of For more information or to register: Call and not have to be placed in care. That’s what you don’t ask them?” most people want and it’s better for the system The third is to renew funding for the Affirmations: 248-398-7105 Visit www. See Taking care, page 11 to make it so people can stay at home as long National Resource Center for LGBT Aging, LGBTolderadults.com 10 BTL \ June 21, 2012 \ Opinion www.PrideSource.com

“The month of June is Gay Pride Month. I have not yet seen where S/he Said they have declared Adultery Pride Bigotry and the Boy Scouts Month. I have not seen where they A new study from the University of Padova, have declared the Drunkenness Pride Month. Here’s the issue, it’s not a Italy claims mothers and maternal aunts of gay COMPILED BY HOWARD ISRAEL men tend to have significantly more offspring. matter of whether or not someone can Scientists participating in the research claim this do what they want to do with their lives. We’re talking about redefining the rest may explain how genetic homosexuality is passed Tony Perkins of culture and making others both on to the next generation. What do you think? embrace, celebrate and subsidize... We’re talking about changing the laws that will influence what our children are taught in schools... We’re talking about religious organizations losing their religious freedom... We never asked for this debate... It was the homosexual community that wanted to have this discussion on redefining marriage. Whether it’s adultery, whether it’s any type of sexual immorality it’s a problem, but we’re not celebrating those other forms as a society, we’re not promoting it and teaching it as normal in our schools.” -Tony Perkins, president of the anti-gay Family Research Council, on the American Family Association’s radio network, www.rightwingwatch.org, June 11.

“Ernst & Young is proud to have such a strong record in LGBT inclusiveness. As CEO, I know that having an inclusive culture produces the best results, is the right thing for our people and makes us a better organization. My experience has led me to believe Janice Daniels that an inclusive environment is important throughout our society “What I said while I was mayor ... I was in a business James Turley and I am proud to be a leader on this meeting, I come from a business perspective ... I said that issue. I support the meaningful work I would bring a doctor into a meeting that would say that of the Boy Scouts in preparing young people for adventure, the homosexual lifestyle is dangerous. Had I been with a leadership, learning and service, however the membership group of smokers I might have said I would like to bring a policy is not one I would personally endorse.” doctor into this meeting to say that smoking is dangerous. -James Turley, CEO, Ernst & Young accounting firm, in a I think that doctors can make a case for it certainly. (Asked statement, the first member of the Boy Scouts of America’s whether it is dangerous to be gay) I have no opinion, but I Executive Board to publicly disapprove of the nationwide think that doctors can make a case for it, certainly.” policy excluding gays, www.huffingtonpost.com, June 13. -Mayor Janice Daniels, Troy, Michigan, in an interview on local Talk Radio 1270, http://detroit.cbslocal.com/, June 13. “I regret to say that I and others like me have been alienated by the modern Boy Scout organization I used to admire. It would be wonderful to have an organization that provides all the opportunity for learning and adventure without all the religious bigotry and homophobic garbage. I support the mission of the advocacy group Scouting for All that wishes to make BSA more inclusive. I would like to see an organization that does all the cool things that the BSA does and includes girls too as I question the extent to which single sex environments are a positive thing.” -Jim Wilson, in his blog posting titled “My beef with Comments may be edited for grammar and length. Boy Scouts of America,” posted on the blog Freethought Join the conversation ... Arizona, http://tucsoncitizen.com, May 31. Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” www.PrideSource.com Michigan News / June 21, 2012 / BTL 11

Kat LaTosch and Curtis Lipscomb Saginaw LGBT banquet to honor local activists, businesses, politicians ® Taking care Continued from p. 9 BTL STAFF REPORT Leo Romo will be honored with a Pride Award. Romo is a tireless activist, Saginaw Valley a community which can place a strong emphasis on image and Outstanding members of Saginaw often visiting Lansing and other areas youthfulness. Participants from both summits talked about facing and Bay City’s gay community will be to champion LGBT causes. He’s an LGBT Pride Awards significant financial instability – from concerns about healthcare honored at the Perceptions-sponsored organizer, advisor, educator and friend Banquet to housing affordability. 4th annual Saginaw Valley LGBT Pride to many in the community. He is the But there were some significant differences between the Awards Banquet at 6 p.m. on June 26 at current chairman of PFLAG Tri-Cities 6 p.m. June 26 two summits. Saginaw’s Andersen Enrichment Center. and belongs to countless other LGBT Andersen Enrichment Center, Saginaw The most significant difference identified between these Perceptions Saginaw Valley is a Tri-City organizations. Romo served on the board www.perceptionssv.org two groups – one targeted an African American Detroit-resident LGBT organization. of Perceptions Saginaw Valley for many years where he remains an advisor. He audience while the other attracted a mainly Caucasian, suburban The event will include a reception but not limited to, the Chocolate Party was the creator of the Pride Awards audience, was that black Detroiters had concerns specifically with wine and appetizers, followed by and Friday night dinners. Carrie’s blog banquet and served as its chairman for revolving around living in the city as an LGBT elder, whereas dinner and the award presentations. features pro-equality promotions of “The 3 years. white suburbanites rarely mentioned their town or city as a Michelle Brown, a Detroit based Laramie Project” at MCFTA and photos of Tana Michaels will also be given significant issue – beyond a concern of general isolation. Our speaker, author and activist will be the same-sex wedding cake toppers. a Pride Award for her contributions in African American LGBT community members living in the city, keynote speaker for the evening. Brown The second business award will music and journalism. Michaels, a singer/ already facing tremendous isolation and heightened financial will deliver a speech entitled, “The Road be presented to Eric Philips, owner of guitar player and journalist, has donated concerns, also have to deal with the same city issues facing to Equality Begins at the Intersection of The Court Street Café, for his unending her time and talent to many LGBT causes all residents. Of those issues, unemployment and public safety Social Justice and LGBT Equality.” support of the LGBT community by including 2009 Respect Fest, 2011 & 2012 topped the list (for a complete report, visit www.e-kick.org or Several honorees will be recognized donating restaurant space for meetings Saginaw Pride Fests, Perceptions Wine www.lgbtolderadults.com). for their service to the LGBT community and Friday night dinners. The Court Street Tasting event and others. She is the former Research shows, and it certainly doesn’t take a rocket in the Saginaw area. Café will also be a vendor at this year’s editor of Perceptions Newsletter, and a scientist to figure out, that as you compound layers of adversity, The Lifetime Achievement Award Pride Fest. regular contributor to Between The Lines. risk dramatically increases. The outlook for a white 70-year- has been earned by Barbara Klimaszewski, The 2012 Political Award will be The 2012 Class of Mt Pleasant’s old lesbian who’s a retired gym teacher living in the suburbs is a Saginaw Criminal and Civil Rights awarded to Kyle Bostwick who, from Sacred Heart Academy will receive a considerably different from the black 70-year-old lesbian who Attorney, who has been active in the his post as treasurer for the Saginaw Pride Award for launching a campaign to worked as a blue collar manufacturer for her entire life, is now community for over 35 years. When Democratic Party and as the Legislative let gay alumnus, Dominic Sheahan-Stahl, disabled and living in an unsafe neighborhood with inadequate members of the LGBT community had no Aide for Rep. Charlie Brunner, works to speak at graduation. Unsuccessful in their public transportation and an extremely low public safety response one to stand up for them, Klimaszewski further equality and civil rights for all campaign, they organized an inclusive time. And her concerns are very different from the suburban provided representation. In 1976 she people. He is a great example and role graduation event, “Live Through Love,” lesbian. began the Underground Railroad, a place model to other young individuals who where Sheahan-Stahl delivered his speech And yet we are all in this together – we are family. where battered women and their children aspire to a career in politics. to the graduating class and approximately This year – June 23 – the Elder Project at KICK (a spinoff could escape. Its formation marked the Seating is limited. Tickets, $25 800 community members. program from last year’s Healing Detroit Summit) is partnering first free standing, emergency women’s per person, $15 for students and low The Gourmet Cupcake Shoppe owner with the LGBT Older Adult Coalition to co-host one unified shelter in Michigan. She serves as an income, can be purchased at http://www. (locations in Saginaw and Midland,) summit – The 2012 LGBT Older Adult Summit. It takes place advisor on Perceptions’ board. She is perceptionssv.org, or by calling 989- Carrie Fischer, will take home one of the from 9 a.m.to 4 p.m at the MSU Detroit Center, 3408 Woodward also a member of ACLU and the Criminal 891-1429. Avenue (next to the WSU’s Bonstelle Theater) in Detroit and Defense Association of Michigan. She has two business awards presented this year features workshops and panels addressing isolation, healthcare, worked hard throughout her career for for her sweet donation of cupcakes and Tana Michaels contributed to this report. finances, and employment. The conference is free to attend, but equality and civil rights. cookies to community events including, you must RSVP in advance at www.LGBTOlderadults.com. Frequently, the unspoken definition of “the LGBT community” defaults to the dominant or majority culture, and as is common in the Metro Detroit region, this all too often means Holland Pride events planned for June 28 white and suburban. We are working hard together, to ensure A community choir, award-winning meaningful and life-changing music,” Kaplan, staff attorney for the ACLU that as we move forward to plan services for LGBT elders and documentary, and a discussion of said Kiefer. of Michigan’s LGBT Project. Kaplan that they are sensitive to the needs of a wide range of people. discrimination in the workplace and At 8 p.m., the award-winning will speak about the current status of Further, we challenge readers to think about the whole housing are all on tap for Holland’s 8th documentary “Out at Work” will be discrimination against lesbian, gay, LGBT community as a broad and diverse cross-section of our annual Gay & Lesbian Pride event on June shown. The film follows a cook who was bisexual and transgender people in the Metro Detroit region’s population. For a community that is often 28 at the Park Theater, 248 S. River Ave. fired for “failing to demonstrate normal workplace and housing in Michigan and isolated from biological family members, turning to our chosen The activities will begin at 7 p.m. heterosexual values” and also includes the field questions from the audience. “family” – our whole family – is a strength we can and should with a performance by “In Harmony,” stories of an auto worker and librarian who Dessert will be served and count on. an all inclusive community choir started seek workplace safety and job security. It refreshments will be available. All of the Curtis Lipscomb is executive director of KICK. He can be reached at by Marty Kiefer, who also founded and was the winner of the GLAAD Award for events are free, with good will offerings [email protected] or www.e-kick.org and Kathleen LaTosch directed the West Michigan Gay Men’s outstanding documentary of the year and accepted. Chorus. The choir features people of the Golden Apple Award from the National The event is sponsored by the is co-chair of the LGBT Older Adult Coalition. She can be reached various ages and sexual orientation Educational Media Network. PFLAG Holland/Lakeshore chapter and at | [email protected] or www.lgbtolderadults.com and its goal is to bring about change The one-hour documentary will Holland is Ready. and understanding through “beautiful, be followed by a discussion led by Jay 12 BTL \ June 21, 2012 \ Michigan News www.PrideSource.com Parting Glances Novi arson latest in life of No believe it or why not? challenges for Stacy Barker BY CRYSTAL A. PROXMIRE when the fire occurred, since Barker and without the professional business clothes BY CHARLES ALEXANDER Williams were in Nevada. When they she wears when she hosts events and does NOVI – When ten year old Dimani returned they stayed in a hotel for sixteen public speaking. t’s 5:30 Friday afternoon. Thinking went to live with a lesbian couple in Novi, days before their insurance relocated them “Me and my partner just support each of BTL co-publishers Jan and Susan she got As and Bs for the first time in her to a one-bedroom apartment. They will not other. We don’t want to ask for help. We’re Iin Washington, D.C., I iPhone text life. be returning to Novi Meadows. the ones who help other people overcome. a simple message of sharing: “Hugs!” Seconds later Jan “She was doing really well here,” said “We never had any problems I know we’re going to get our blessings, cellphone hugs me back. Stacey Barker, one of the women who took there,” Barker said. “We’ve never been because we have our health and we have Jan’s comment: “It’s totally awesome!” Her accompanying her in earlier this year. “Just a couple of disrespected. That’s what makes it so each other.” picture is a shot of invitees meeting President Obama at the weeks ago she helped me do a Girl’s Group horrible, not knowing who did it or why.” She said this isn’t the worst thing that ongoing White House LGBT reception. A stunning moment event. I hired her to help. She She said she remains close to her neighbors, has happened to her. Barker’s life has been shared. took the responsibility so fraught with struggle, not just as a Jan is visible in the lower left-hand corner, looking stylish, serious! She helped me tie lesbian, but as a woman trying to well dressed for an auspicious, who’d-ever-believe-it-could- balloons and we put together make it in a society where violence happen? (For someone who came out in 1956 like myself, this little gift bags. I paid her $10 and degradation of women is still is truly mind boggling. Pie in the Sky with red-white-and-blue an hour and she was so proud all too common. When she was sparkler candles!) of herself for doing a good 18 years old she was hospitalized I email back. “I’m in awe – even with this tiny rainbow job. You should have seen her after being gang-raped by three souvenir.” Incidentally, my last iota of White House contact being so helpful!” men. And when she was 22 she occurred some 20 years ago. A friend was there for some sort The Girls’ Group event, was sentenced to life in prison after of military honors during Bill Clinton’s administration, and he which helps connect young using deadly force to stop another quietly pocketed sugar packets. women in an empowering sexual assault. I shan’t mention my friend’s name – just in case having and supportive environment, She was locked up for 22 done so might occasion an investigation by the FBI, CIA, or was just one of the many ways years, half her life at the time. In Michigan Republicans – but I treasured that little packet of Barker has given back to the 2000 a Federal court ruled that calories. It carried the White House seal. I’ve been tempted community after overcoming the judge in her trial was wrong to put it up for e-Bay bid, if only I could locate it among all unbelievable obstacles in her for not explaining to the jury that my studio art. own life. Barker has been a woman is allowed to use deadly (If a pastry simulacra of Mother Teresa can earn several working with the Girl’s Group force to prevent a sexual assault. It eBay thousands, surely a sugar packet from a sticky-fingers in Ann Arbor, and having took a full ten years after that for Democratic presidency can get high-digit bid response. Monica Dimani as part of the family Stacy Barker, right, with her partner and daughter earlier this year. Photo the parole board to finally approve Lewinsky, who?) had also been a light in her courtesy of Stacy Barker. her release. This is the second time in 12 hours that I’ve been high tech life, and a way to give back. While she was incarcerated, zapped. On Thursday night I was sitting next to an architect But then an arsonist’s “All we have left are the clothes we took Barker was repeatedly raped and friend, John, dim-suming in a favorite chinese restaurant fire destroyed their home and assaulted by prison guards. Barker when he showed me China photos taken two years ago on a Dimani went back to live with us to Vegas,. We lost everything. All our won settlements in 1995, 2000 and business trip. with her biological mother in 2010 as a result of being sexually He had dozens, and as he highlighted them on his iPad he Detroit. wedding presents, all our stuff, everything.” assaulted in prison. The most recent explained how well he was treated in that remote, little known On May 12, while Barker suit uncovered widespread abuse city. People went out of their way to literally open doors for and her partner Tawana of prisoners and resulted in over him. A total stranger, he was treated like visiting royalty. Williams were in Las Vegas 800 women coming forward in a Then, to my delight and surprise, John brought up a celebrating their honeymoon, someone including the neighbor to her right that made class action lawsuit against the state. Thirty map of China, zeroed in on the province and city where he broke into their Novi Meadows home, the centerpieces for her wedding. prison guards being convicted of various had stayed, and then the neighborhood where he lived – the scrawled racist and homophobic comments Barker said the Novi Police have been related crimes as a result. apartment building – and also the eight-story architectural on the walls, and used an accelerant to set “very honest and nice,” and that the FBI is The torture she endured behind bars center he temporarily worked in. All thousands of miles away. the home on fire. also looking into the fire as a potential hate drove her to do better for herself. She Details clear; and John traced how he walked everywhere in “All we have left are the clothes we crime. In Michigan anti-gay remarks are earned a degree and made connections to the the area. Just like being there. A miraculous techno visit. took with us to Vegas,” Barker said. “We not considered a hate crime, but anti-black outside world. One connection is Williams, I’m also in awe of American-made GPS units with voice lost everything. All our wedding presents, remarks are. Barker said that her house who she’s dated off and on since 1994 overs that give sweet-or-sour commanding directions to all our stuff, everything.” contained both, though it’s not clear yet how before living together and ultimately having wherever one wants to go. I know that satellites are somehow While Dimani still had belongings at the crime will be prosecuted or if a suspect a commitment ceremony. Other connections involved in street-by-street pinpointing, but it all seems like her mother’s house in Detroit, she also lost will be arrested. helped her find work in the non-profit world magic to me. (Two hundred years ago, it would be condemned clothing and toys in the fire. “The worst and as a public speaker. as witchcraft.) thing is losing our daughter,” Barker said. “Through Girls Group I get to help Wherever we look, wherever we listen, our modern world “After the fire we had to take her home Equality Michigan support young women stay in school, don’t be a teen is a wonderment of astounding, taken for granted, high tech. because her mother didn’t feel like it was Equality Michigan is helping the family mom, don’t get in abusive relationships. We What was only dreamed about perhaps in times long, long safe. Kids at school were making fun of through their victim services program. In also send them on trips and to conferences gone – things that only the fabled walk-on-water gods could Dimani and one boy told her that we should addition to providing educational resources to learn how to be independent leaders.” perform – is now fact. have died in the fire.” and a supportive ear, they are collecting With a life full of experience and a And, if far-fetched truth, turned pleasing reality be known, Barker said that the home in Detroit is department store gift cards to help them heart full of love, Barker said she’s going it’s pretty hard to top a gathering of gays, lesbians, T-persons also a loving one, and that Dimani is in good replace household items and clothing they to keep moving forward. “A lot of people (not T-baggers) shaking hands with the President of the United hands. But she worries about her education. lost. would say ‘why me?’ But I say ‘why not States. Hugs, Obama! (Yea, verily: Mitt was inconspicuous “She moved out here with us so she could go Barker is on medical leave from work me?’ I’d rather have it be me than someone by his absence.) to Novi schools, but now she is too scared.” where she helps empower women. She who isn’t as emotionally strong who would [email protected] Dimani had been with her mother worries about how she will return to work really be hurt by it.” www.PrideSource.com National News / June 21, 2012 / BTL 13 NC couples sue federally for Creep of the Week Joe Haveman second parent adoption BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI BY CRYSTAL A. PROXMIRE occasions of our lives,” said ou know, if you would have asked Marcie. “We don’t ever want me a year ago what the most terrible Six couples in North Carolina are there to be any question as to Ystate in the nation for lesbians or taking second parent adoption to the who should care for our children. gays I would not have said Michigan. I mean, Federal level. The ACLU of North If something were to happen to yes, Michigan would have made the list, but Carolina has filed a lawsuit on behalf of the either one of us, it could tear our not at the coveted #1 spot. gay and lesbian couples contending that family apart.” Well, apparently Michigan Rep. Joe Haveman (R-Holland) denying second parent adoption deprives Some of the protections has a competitive streak and didn’t like Michigan being anything Americans of equal rights and the right to that come with a second parent less than the worst. And so in March he introduced House Bill due process. adoption include ensuring that 5040, a.k.a. the “Julea Ward freedom of conscience act.” This A second parent adoption occurs all children in the family are odious bill according to Emily Dievendorf, director of policy when one partner in an unmarried couple covered if one partner lacks at Equality Michigan, “would prohibit public colleges and adopts the other partner’s biological or health insurance; ensuring that universities from disciplining students participating in counseling, adoptive child. This can occur in both gay Marcie and Chantelle Fisher-Borne. Courtesy of ACLU. families will stay together and social work and psychology programs who refuse treatment to a and straight relationships. In December children will not be torn from patient based on the patient’s sexual orientation or gender identity, 2010, the North Carolina Supreme Court the only home they’ve known if the discrimination is motivated by a ‘sincerely held religious banned second parent adoptions for same- we start now it will be all those many years if something should happen belief.’” sex couples. closer,” she said. to the biological parent; ensuring that In other words, if you’re gay or lesbian and you want mental Elizabeth Gill, staff attorney for the either parent will be allowed to make health care and your counselor or therapist thinks homos are yucky, ACLU LGBT Project stressed the harm medical decisions or be able to be by they don’t have to help you. that is caused by “not allowing lesbian The families their child’s bedside if one their children A little backstory here: Julea Ward was a student at Eastern and gay couples the ability to create the Chantelle Fisher-Borne and her is hospitalized. Michigan University who got booted from the counseling program same parent-child relationships as hetro- partner Marcie have been in a committed The law doesn’t just affect same- there because she refused to help a gay student because it offended families.” relationship for 15 years. A recent vote gender-loving partners and their kids. her because of Jesus or whatever. Afterwards she became a hero “Harms are an incredibly important in North Carolina solidified their inability Examples of other situations where second to anti-gay folks everywhere, obviously. part of this case,” Gill said. “Kids are left to get married, and a 2010 vote banned parent adoption would give essential “Every individual is entitled to religious beliefs and should vulnerable in a number of different ways. second-parent adoptions completely in the protections to a child include if a single not be reprimanded for those beliefs,” Haveman stated. Children are harmed by not having access state. They hope that justice can be done dad also wants his sister or his mother to Um, yes, we’re all entitled to believe whatever we want, to health care benefits and the harm from for the sake of their children by attacking have parental rights, or if a straight couple batshit crazy or otherwise, and nobody denied Ward that. However, the real fact that a child could be taken this law at a Federal level. who is unmarried wants to jointly adopt. being gay is not a belief, it’s a real thing. And gay people are human away.” The couple has two children, and Essentially it would remove marriage as beings, which, presumably, someone in a counseling program has Currently 20 states plus Washington, each is the biological mother of one. When a barrier to parenthood. a desire to help. D.C., have clear protection for second their daughter was born, the couple was “Ms. Ward did not deny counseling to the client,” Haveman parent adoptions either through statute or treated rudely by a hospital staff member Michigan continued. “She requested to refer the client to another counselor, by case law. Five states expressly prohibit who demanded their legal paperwork. and by being responsible to make sure the client received the best it and the remainder – including Michigan If both women were able to be fully In Michigan the second-parent counseling available, she was punished.” – are ambiguous, with many states having recognized legal parents to their children, adoption case filed federally has stalled In other words, Ward was not capable of providing the best counties that will do it while others won’t. such encounters could be avoided. because the State of Michigan has filed counseling available. So why should she get a counseling degree? Though two other cases – one in “We were treated as if our family for a summary dismissal, contending that Oh, yeah. Because she didn’t want to help a gay person and that’s Michigan – have been filed in Federal was less than other families, during what adoption is a state right and not a federal a matter of “conscience.” Now, if she had refused to help someone courts, none have been heard yet, Gill should have been one of the happiest one. Hazel Park women April DeBoer because they were Hispanic or because they were confined to a said. “The process can take years, but if and Jayne Rowse have been together for wheelchair then everyone would call that blatant discrimination. ten years, and have lived together for six. According to Dievendorf, “Discrimination based on various Rowse is the legal parent of one child and categories, including age, culture, disability, ethnicity, race, Rowse is the legal parent of another. Each religion/spirituality, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, of the children was taken in by DeBoer marital status, language preference, and socioeconomic status is and Rowse after being abandoned or prohibited by national counseling standards.” surrendered at birth by their mothers. The So by saying, “Hey, I don’t want to treat gay people,” Ward women served as guardians and licensed essentially said, “Hey, I am not qualified for this program.” Just foster parents to the children before like if you want to be a doctor and you say, “Oh, by the way I adopting them as individuals. Each child don’t believe in medicine and science and will just pray to Jesus could only legally be adopted by one of on behalf of my sick patients,” you should be shown the door not the women, so they face the same fears given a diploma. as the couples in North Carolina. (Read I have heard the argument made again and again that this bill more at www.pridesource.com/article. actually benefits gay clients because who wants to be counseled html?article=52468) by a homophobe? And, yes, that is true. But not everyone has the To help the general public understand luxury of shopping around when it comes to care providers. Some the issue and to help supporters mobilize people are limited by insurance or lack thereof. Nor do kids who their friends, co-workers and neighbors, see school social workers have many options. And the last thing an the ACLU has put together an “Allies LGBT kid struggling with his or her sexuality needs is a counselor Guide to Talking about Adoption by who says, “You’re too broken to help.” LGBT Parents” which can be downloaded But for Haveman and the others who supported this bill, at www.aclu.org/lgbt-rights/allys-guide- religious rights (and let’s be clear, that really means “Christian talking-about-adoption-lgbt-parents. rights”) trump LGBT civil rights every time. 14 BTL \ June 21, 2012 \ Michigan News www.PrideSource.com

® Ferndale Pride bigger boost in sales than expected. Fortunately the Continued from p. 7 ‘Bully Chronicles’ fundraising deadline approaches sun came back out in the late afternoon and the Drag Show BY KATE OPALEWSKI other side of the story for the first time – the generating an increased calorie burn. love. “No matter what you and after parties, another boost bully’s side. “Spinning has been around for a long face with your child, love for business, carried on as Local filmmaker Amy Weber is So far, supporters have donated time. This is the next level of exercise…an them. Be sweet and patient scheduled. nearing the final fundraising days for her more than $20,000 toward making the intense, exhilarating and motivating 45 to and hope that things will Ferndale Pride Weekend true-to-life fictional documentary, The film at Indiegogo (www.indiegogo.com/ 60 minute workout primed to inspiring, hot work themselves out,” she had many individual events Bully Chronicles. She remains hopeful TheBullyChronicles,) the world’s largest music,” said Blatnikoff. “It’s my pleasure to said. “Your child needs and including the SE Michigan that she will reach her goal of $100,000 global funding platform. Every dollar promote good health and raise awareness.” deserves your love.” Dyke March and a Light the by June 23. raised will go toward the making of the Visitors are encouraged to come and The theme of family love Night Walk where visitors “Every penny counts in this game film. “This is a true example of a grassroots work hard, but to do things at their own was evident in the Ferndale heard from multiple groups changing project that will help bring effort. We need supporters and we have to pace. “Any level can take a class. Have Pride planning. The kids’ tent about how they are affected understanding and healing to an epidemic pull together as a community in order to something light to eat before, bring water was run by local moms and by hate. that has plagued our youth for far too make this happen,” said Weber. and a towel. People will be amazed at dads, and the Rainbow Run Covey said 7,000 people long,” said Weber about the 100 percent Leslee Blatnikoff, co-owner of Real what a great workout they will get,” said had a short family “run” where came out in total and there Michigan-made project. Ryder Revolution in West Bloomfield, Blatnikoff, a hardworking mother who is kids could join their parents were no injuries or incidents. The Bully Chronicles (www. is doing anything she can to help with philanthropic in her community. and get paint thrown on them He said over 125 volunteers thebullychronicles.com/) begins as fundraising efforts for the film while “This bullying thing has become such too. And in the afternoon a helped out the day of the a documentary investigation into the introducing a brand new workout to the a big to-do with people judging and hurting local family spoke about their festival and a core group story of 16-year-old Jessica Burns, who community at her indoor cycling studio, each other. I’m not about that anymore experience adopting a gay of 20-30 on the planning lies in a coma after a nearly successful the first of its kind in Michigan. in my life, which is why I want to be a teenager. committee. “One thing that suicide attempt. The filmmakers examine “Amy and Tina are our riders and part of this and see this grow. This film The afternoon Market makes this event so neat is that Jessica’s life to uncover the reasons why. they’re also good friends of mine. They are is so important,” said Blatnikoff, adding Daze suffered a loss of we had all sorts of folks come Confessional tapes recorded in secret by two very hip, young, successful women. I that donations are accepted at the studio attendees as heavy rains together with their own ideas Jessica and her best friend Brian surface. love what they stand for. I respect them so whether people take a class or not. poured on downtown Ferndale, to make one big festival. We The recordings show an unblinking look much and I care for them as individuals. “We are very honored that Real Ryder sending many of the families had so much diversity on the into the world of bullying through the I want to support the film, which they are Revolution is making efforts to raise money home and pushing the rest planning committee that when victim’s eyes. As she languishes in a coma, so dedicated and passionate about,” said for The Bully Chronicles,” said Weber. of the crowds into the bars, everything came together we her story unfolds in the “found footage” Blatnikoff. “What a wonderful opportunity to exercise, coffee shops and boutiques had a unique event that none style through self-recorded interviews She and her business partners, Traci have a great time and contribute to a much- along 9 Mile and Woodward, of us could have imagined on and actual confrontations with her bullies. Raitt and Dan Barish, take cycling to a new needed cause.” Jessica’s primary bully, Avery, initially level and actually simulate an outdoor ride. giving the businesses – many our own.” Real Ryder Revolution is located at 6716 denies that she’s been tormenting Jessica. The Real Ryder bikes offer a total body of which are gay-owned or Orchard Lake Road in West Bloomfield. employ LGBT staff – an even But once given the opportunity to film her workout allowing riders to turn, lean, steer, own thoughts and experiences, we see the race, climb, and strengthen their core while 248-737-645, www.realryderrevolution.com

Visit our website! http://www.pridesource.com Add our fan page! Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” Follow us! @YourBTL www.PrideSource.com Michigan News / June 21, 2012 / BTL 15 Between Ourselves Meet Tyler Bradley yler Bradley a third year student at Saginaw Valley State University studying graphic design and Spanish. He is the A&E Section Editor of The Valley Vanguard Tand Social Activities Coordinator of Living Proud, the on-campus affinity group. How big of an LGBT on an LGBT program. We’ve presence is there at had programs for annorexia, 1 Saginaw Valley? alcohol, drugs, and texting and driving, but nothing was While the LGBT presence ever mentioned about LGBT at Saginaw Valley might be issues in our school unless it a bit smaller than at other was forcibly brought up by Universities, our presence a student. is definitely growing. The As for college, I University has started Ally view being out in a whole Training sessions, which more new way. While you’re than 100 have completed. constantly meeting new Up until recently, there people, you’re constantly was an LGBT literature course going through a coming out offered at the University. process with each individual person. So it’s hard to say if What type of events do you are out or not. you have? 2 Our registered student organization, Are other students supportive of the Living Proud, holds bonding get togethers so LGBT students? that those who aren’t on the whole social activist 4 This is a little harder of a question. side of things can get to know people like them While we do have a growing ally population and just have fun. We do the program “How at the University, there will always be a select Good is Your Gaydar?” in which the audience number of students who aren’t supportive. My asks a series of volunteer panelists questions to freshman year, I had a roommate who was against determine their sexuality. We organize a group the idea of homosexuality. After he had gotten to participate in an AIDS Walk. Our charity drag to know me, he was completely okay with it. In show is entering its sixth year. Word on the street fact, he said his views on it had changed a lot is that we have one of the best college drag shows because of meeting me. hosted at a University. We also usually organize a group of students Do you see people who are coming out to go to the Midwest Bisexual Lesbian Gay while at college, and what do you do to Transgender Ally Collegiate Conference that’s 5 help them? filled with tons of LGBT-themed programming I just try to be available if they have any and LGBTQA leaders from other college questions, concerns or just need someone to talk campuses. to. A couple weeks ago, a professor had talked to me and had thanked me for writing newspaper How is being out and active in college articles about LGBT events. He had told me he different than your high school is in the process of coming out himself, and is 3 experience? very appreciative for all that I’ve done. Knowing I was the only one in my high school that things like that are helping support not only identified as something other than heterosexual students, but professors too is a very rewarding in the whole school. It was very disheartening! feeling. In fact, I had attempted to contact some old high school teachers some months ago about putting A longer version of this interview can be found online at www.pridesource.com

® Troy Mayor 22 days must verify that each signer is properly registered. Mayor Daniels has 30 days after Continued from p. 5 the date of filing to challenge any signatures, when an elected official has committed an illegal according to the clerk’s office, and a final review act, the officer can be removed in accordance by the Elections Division must occur within 35 with MCL § 168.327, a completely separate and days after filing. Once the signatures are certified, distinct procedure,” he said. the issue will put to Troy voters in the Nov. 6 Binkowski said an in-house verification ballot, alongside the presidential election. No of signatures was conducted to make sure the special election will be required and thus, no names and addresses match the registered voter extra cost to the taxpayers. database. The Elections Division has seven As far as the Recall Janice Daniels group is days to inform them whether or not they have concerned, their next project is fundraising and enough “facially valid” signatures and within getting the message out to the voters. www.PrideSource.com Performing / June 21, 2012 / BTL 17

SISTER ACT

Photos: Neil Krug Jake and Ana talk 10 years together, who’s gayer and disco idols

BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI but a real tapping into that creative force. had a really clear sense of what he wanted and Scissor Sisters where he wanted to go with things. ever ones to take themselves too seriously The last album, “Night Work,” took nearly four 8 p.m. June 27 – their new video, “Baby Come Home,” Royal Oak Music Theatre years to release; this one only took two. How What’s the weirdest inspiration for a song off Nhas them camping it up in nun gear – Jake 318 W. Fourth St., Royal Oak were you able to get this album out so quickly? “Magic Hour”? Shears and Ana Matronic of Scissor Sisters let www.royaloakmusictheatre.com loose in our recent interview. Who’s gayer? Jake Jake: This one we made in six months. It was Jake: There’s a song called “The Secret Life of has the worst table manners? The band thought a pretty laid-back process, and I wasn’t feeling Letters” about creative block. I don’t know if that’s the weirdest inspiration, but it’s weird, Ana was murdered and tossed in the trunk of a The stuff that’s sexual is pretty funny; this record wound up or stressed out and wanted to make because the song itself is about not being able car? Check out what the Sisters – who just released definitely has a pretty strong sense of humor. music that wasn’t over-thought. I just wanted to their fourth album, “Magic Hour,” and will play on make a happy record that was fun to write that to write a song. When I wrote that, it was the June 27 at the Royal Oak Music Theatre – revealed Ana Matronic: “Night Work,” in addition to meant something. It was super natural and the only way I could write a song, so that’s a special about life on the road, and life with each other. being really sexual, was about Jake finding his creativity was definitely flowing, which you can and interesting song to me. creative footholds again. Sex and creativity never take for granted. It came really easy. Ana: “Let’s Have a Kiki” was directly inspired come from the same place; they’re instincts that Does this album have as high of a libido as by an experience I had of going to a party; it you can hone but they are intrinsic to you. You Ana: For me, songwriting is never very laid- was raining and the cops had busted it and it “Night Work”? can really only control them. You can’t pick who back; that’s the thing that I really fret about. When I get to relax is when the show is together was in a loft downtown. It was partly inspired Jake Shears: There’s sexy music on it, but it’s you fall in love with or are attracted to, and you and we’re performing. But from my perspective, by that and it was partly inspired by the fact not sexually aggressive. The last record was very can’t pick aesthetically what you’re attracted to and watching Jake in the studio, this is his most that Jake and I love to have house parties. That aggressive in a certain way; this one is much more or into. You can only develop it. That’s why I confident moment in the studio, I believe. He romantic – about relationships and friendships. think it was not only a desire to talk about desire See Scissor Sisters, page 25 18 BTL \ June 21, 2012 \ Music www.PrideSource.com

Hear Me Out BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI Kylie Minogue keeps the compilations coming. Plus: ‘Rock of Ages’ surprises Also Out Vicci Martinez, ‘Vicci’ Before Vicci Martinez was the last standing on Team Cee Lo during “The Voice,” the out lesbian was an independent recording artist, releasing her first album all the way back in 2000. Now on a major label, Universal Republic, she’s getting the platform she deserves. Alternating between power pop and bluesy rock, she resembles Joss Stone on “I Want Your Kiss,” and “Stop Pretending” could easily be a Kelly Clarkson hit. When she scales back on “Let Go,” an introspective piano ballad, Martinez proves her glory on “The Voice” was no accident. Usher, ‘Looking 4 Myself’ Despite his lost-boy Kylie Minogue, ‘The Best of Kylie Minogue’ ‘Rock of Ages’ album title, finding soundtrack Usher shouldn’t be After two decades of niche fame, Kylie hard. He’s always Minogue’s camp isn’t giving up on Naysayers who somewhere between demonstrating to the non-gay public the thought it was risky horny and heartfelt. That’s the case again awesomeness of the Aussie, recycling business having Tom with the hottie’s seventh album, his her hits into remixes, live releases and Cruise take on the best since 2004’s “Confessions.” Forget past hit collections. The strategy? Drop hair-metal classics of about the first single, “Scream,” a radio a new album, and then get those hits on the rock era might be surprised at the gusto recyclable. Mid-tempos “Climax” and another album – any album – stat. “The he gives in “Rock of Ages,” the big-screen “Say the Words” (via the Deluxe Edition), Best of Kylie Minogue” makes its case: adaptation of the big-timing Broadway with its old-school MJ feel, cast us under The underrated diva’s catalog is a bank of musical. As any good actor will tell you, his falsetto spell. As good as they are, it’s irresistible dance-music goodies, from her losing yourself in the role is key – and Cruise, the genius tracks produced by Klas Ahlund classic ’80s-released fame-maker “The as Stacee Jaxx, does exactly that with his (aka the Robyn dynamo) – “Numb” and Loco-Motion” to 2002’s crossover hit numbers on the jukebox soundtrack. “Pour “Euphoria,” both suiting the Euro-synth “Love at First Sight.” Those, of course, Some Sugar on Me” is probably too clean- sounds – that really give Usher the edge show up here (the former as the 7” mix), cut for the Gen Xers who can’t see Jerry he hasn’t had in years. as do 19 other tracks, and their music Maguire blasting testosterone into a Def videos on an accompanying DVD, from Leppard sex song, but Cruise is convincing John Mayer, ‘Born the last 25 years: “I Should Be So Lucky,” – and completely unrecognizable – as a and Raised’ a bubblegum standout from her 1988 grunge-rocker that can, yes, sing. Even better, His douche days debut that begs you to get out the boom vocally, is the way he reaches for some high are over, and now box, and disco-influenced gems like notes on “Paradise City” like someone kicked John Mayer’s ready “Spinning Around” and “Can’t Get You him in the balls. Catherine Zeta-Jones has a for redemption. He Out of My Head.” The latest additions, darn good time doing her best Pat Benatar does that not just “All the Lovers” and “Get Outta My Way,” on “Hit Me With Your Best Shot,” and by asking for it on his latest rootsy release, come from Minogue’s reinvigorating her energy is infectious. Less appealing is but with the music itself – though not his “Aphrodite,” but that hardly warrants Julianne Hough on … just about all her songs. deepest, it’s by far some of his most genuine another cobbled LP after 2004’s two-disc Hough’s not a bad singer, but she’s no Lea work, heart running off sleeve. He admits to set, “Ultimate Kylie” – even if this is her Michele – no matter how hard she tries. So having a “rough start” on “Shadow Days,” 25th year since making the shift from soap when Mary J. Blige drops in halfway through and “If I Ever Get Around to Living” is star to dance queen. “Timebomb,” her new “Harden My Heart” like a drama-defeating an endearing letter to himself. His guitar single commemorating this milestone, Jesus to a down-and-out Hough – Hail Mary, playing, as always, is smooth and drenched would’ve been a nice incentive on an album full of grace! – she’s saving more than she in his current-career bluesiness, offering that’s a hard-to-justify buy. At least there’s knows: With her soulful “Shadows of the strong sentiments on walking the walk the cool cover art. Kylie buttons from Night” and sassy “Any Way You Want It,” (“Love is a Verb”) and living carefree (“The different eras? Oh hell yeah. Grade: B- she shows everyone how it’s done. Grade: B Age of Worry”). You’re forgiven, John. www.PrideSource.com Opinion / June 21, 2012 / BTL 19 General Gayety Puzzling out the Phelpsians

BY LESLIE ROBINSON

ome people argue that the best way to handle the ever-present, ever- Sprotesting members of the Westboro Baptist Church is to ignore them. That sounds sensible. I just can’t do it. The truth is I find Fred Phelps and his congregation fascinating. I get that they’re among the world’s biggest media whores – they could even give Donald Trump pointers – and will push any boundary for attention. Yet they still manage to surprise me. Like just recently, when they journeyed to North Carolina. Since Westboro’s religious creed is God Hates Fags, and since North Carolina passed the anti-gay Amendment One, a person might assume the Phelpsians visited the Tar Heel State simply to sniff the heady air of bigotry victorious. That’s not the Westboro way. North Carolinians don’t want gays to marry; Westboro members don’t want gays to live. So they went to North Carolina to do what they always do, stage a protest. Their target was obvious, a man famous for supporting gay rights, a man who practically bleeds rainbow colors. Billy Graham. See, fascinating. The elder statesman of Christian evangelism a friend of gays? Right. And Billy’s son and heir Franklin is a part-time imam. While Graham has taken fewer political stances in his career than, say, Jerry Falwell or Pat Robertson, he jumped into the Amendment One battle. “At 93, I never thought we would have to debate the definition of marriage,” Graham wrote in an ad that ran in newspapers around North Carolina. “The Bible is clear – God’s definition of marriage is between a man and a woman. I want to urge my fellow North Carolinians to vote FOR the marriage amendment on Tuesday, May 8.” Yup, he’s on our side, all right. Downright ready to head up a PFLAG chapter. So why, if Westboro and Graham are anti-gay bedfellows, did the Phelpsians protest Graham? Because the reverend isn’t anti-gay enough. Westboro has high standards. About a dozen church members picketed the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte and other Graham-centric locations. On Westboro’s website, according to WBTV, the church said Graham should use his influence to tell the world “it’s not okay to be a fag, it’s not okay to divorce and remarry, it’s not okay to fornicate, it’s not okay to kill your babies.” The man is 93. How can he be expected to remember all that? Protester Paulette Phelps told the Asheville Citizen-Times that Graham cares more for money and power than preaching God’s truth. “The true Gospel says if you don’t obey, you’re going to perish. There are consequences for not obeying. Homosexuality is all bad, all day.” She makes it sound like a radio format. Either Paulette or another Phelps – because most church

See General Gayety, page 24 20 BTL \ June 21, 2012 \ Ann Arbor www.PrideSource.com

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

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22 BTL \ June 21, 2012 \ Ann Arbor www.PrideSource.com Jim Toy Pride Dinner to award scholar, advocate Sandra Cole CNN and ESPN journalist LZ Granderson to keynote

BY BENJAMIN JENKINS and honor her career as a noted sexologist and at the University of Minnesota longtime advocate of equality for transgender and the University of Michigan, ANN ARBOR – Award-winning CNN and individuals. In 1999, Toy and Dr. Cole co- the transgender community ESPN online gay journalist LZ Granderson will authored new language for Ann Arbor’s non- in all its diversity, the UM’s keynote the Jim Toy Community Center’s Pride discrimination policy to include gender identity/ Spectrum Center, and the Jim Toy Dinner, honoring the advocate and scholar Dr. expression. Pioneering LGBT advocate Jim Toy Community Center. Sandra Cole June 25. himself will present Cole with the award. “She has presented at Granderson was named the 2011 Journalist Dr. Cole began her scholarly career on the countless national conferences of the Year by the National Lesbian and Gay faculty of the University of Minnesota Medical on transgender concerns. She has Journalists Association. He is also a 2009 School alongside her late husband Ted Cole. The counciled innumerable couples, GLAAD Award winner for his digital journalism. two of them conducted groundbreaking research families and individuals. We are all In his weekly CNN opinion column, Granderson on topics such as sexuality and physical disability. incapable of sufficiently honoring often tackles the topics of race, sexuality and In 1977, the Coles moved to Ann Arbor and joined that work, but we will do our best gender in both society and sports. the faculty of the University of Michigan. to recognize Sandra’s vocation.” The Jim Toy Community Center Pride Granderson will also serve as the National Dr. Cole also founded the University of After retiring from seven years of service Dinner begins at 6 p.m., June 25 at the Morris Black Justice Coalition’s Third Annual OUT on Michigan Health System Comprehensive Gender as the health services program’s director, Cole Lawrence Building at Washtenaw Community the Hill’s National Chairman this year. OOTH Services Program in 1993, an academic program continues to advocate for transgendered individuals College, 4800 E. Huron River Dr., Ann Arbor. is a Black LGBT Leadership Summit meant to providing health care services to transgendered and their families’ equality and social justice. Tickets are $85 per person or $150 for two. foster strategy, discussion and organization while individuals in need of gender-related care, “I cannot imagine a world without the many Tickets are available online via PayPal, at educating public officials about black LGBT including encrinological, surgical, mental and changes that Sandra Cole has brought to us all on Common Language Bookstore, or by sending public policy concerns. general health care services. behalf of freedom and justice,” says Toy. “She has a check to Jim Toy Center, 319 Braun Ct., Ann JTCC’s Pride Dinner will award Dr. Cole “Sandra has served many communities,” been a pioneer, a teacher, an advocate, an ally and Arbor, MI 48104. For more information, go to with the Jim Toy Lifetime Achievement Award said Toy. “In particular the medical schools a friend to more people than I can begin to count.” www.JimToyCenter.org or call 734-834-0598. www.PrideSource.com Ann Arbor / June 21, 2012 / BTL 23

Visit our website! http://www.pridesource.com Add our fan page! Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” Follow us! @YourBTL 24 BTL \ June 21, 2012 \ Ann Arbor www.PrideSource.com

® General Gayety Continued from p. 19 That’s not the Westboro way. North

members are related—held a sign reading “God H8S Billy’s Cow.” Carolinians don’t want gays to marry; I was baffled as to why God would hate dairy products, unless Westboro members don’t want gays to live. he’s lactose intolerant, but it turned out that a “talking” cow offers stories and songs to young library visitors. All part of Graham’s money-grubbing, claimed the Yes, Falwell adored us. Phelpsians, who asked, “How many children can you lead to Satan How could I forget they protested him? Because their through Bessie the talking cow?” reasoning is so bizarre I can barely wrap my mind around it. I guess that depends on the quality of Bessie’s stories But I won’t forget again. When Pat Robertson dies, I’ll expect and songs. the Phelpsians to picket his funeral. Since Robertson has always Only after I’d ruminated over Westboro’s attack on Billy overflowed with love for gay people. Graham did I remember that this isn’t the first time the cult has targeted a prominent evangelical. In 2007, these folks protested Leslie Robinson wants to meet Bessie the talking cow. Email Leslie at Jerry Falwell’s funeral, in part because of Falwell’s warmth at [email protected], and read more LGBT funnies at www. toward gays. generalgayety.com.

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Call us today: 734-293-7200 x22 www.PrideSource.com Performing / June 21, 2012 / BTL 25

® Scissor Sisters Continued from p. 17 really is our favorite way to have fun. Put on a mix, get our friends together and have what we refer to as a “Micro Rave” at my house. Do you have hotel parties on the road? Ana: Sometimes. More often than not we have them in the bus. We have what we call “Back Lounge Raves” or “Front Lounge Raves” and, since we’re almost always traveling with Sammy Jo (their touring DJ), we just put him to work and dance on the bus. What’s your favorite line on this album? Jake: One of my favorite lines on this album is, “Love your mama’s Cadillac / Had it since the dawn of crack.” Where did that come from? Jake: Out of my ass. Look, all these songs just come out of my ass. I seriously make it up as I go along. (Laughs) You’ve said people in your life inspired this album. Does that include your husband, Chris? Jake: Chris always plays into it. I wrote him a song when we started dating and he told me it sounded like it had been written by a 12-year- old girl, and I told him, “I’m never writing you a song ever again.” (Laughs) I never stuck to that. But yeah, of course: There’s “Best in Me.” We’re going on our ninth year, and I don’t know of Donna Summer and Robin Gibb and the Bee PlayStation Vita is always with me. I’m a pretty of wanting to play any pranks. But he’s way better how he has the patience. It amazes me and I Gees and the crazy direct influence it had on us – light traveler. I can exist off very little. I’ve been at this shit than I am. I don’t really tease people really feel like the luckiest man in the world to it’s just something to celebrate. living out of a suitcase for so long that I don’t that often because it makes me feel really guilty. really bring a ton. I’m a bit of a hippie like that. have him. I don’t think it could be anybody else. Ana: It’s not often that I get teary over the passing Something we don’t know about the other? Are you saying you’re a difficult person? of celebrities, but Donna did make me shed a Ana: Oh, I have about 50 pounds of tour few tears because she did mean a lot to the gay essentials. (Laughs) I am not a low-maintenance Jake: God, that’s hard. Ana has the craziest Jake: Yeah. To be with and to be a partner with, community. The day she died we played a show gal by any means. I do my own makeup and hair memory of anyone that I’ve ever come into contact I think I’m probably very difficult because I’m in London, so I took some time to pay tribute to and the whole nine, so I have to carry around with. She can remember dates, or something you never home, and it does get really hard. It can her. In New York City it was illegal in the ’60s for a lot of stuff. If we have one show, I have two were wearing one afternoon before some concert really bum me out sometimes – I know it bums men to dance alone together in a space, so men bags. And I’ll show up and people are like, in, like, Russia. She has a really crazy memory. him out sometimes – and it’s tough to live apart had to be with women dancing. That was one of “You know, we’re only gone for a week.” And Ana: Do you know that he writes just about for extended periods, but then you also don’t take the many laws that inspired the Stonewall riots. I’ll go, “Do we have a show?” “Yes, we have a one piece of fiction a year? He studied creative for granted the time you have together when you The ’70s were the first time that men could be on show.” Then I have two bags. That is the rule. writing, and every year he writes something are together. On the other hand, I don’t think I’d a dance floor with other men, and the soundtrack other than a song. be in a relationship with somebody that I’d have to freedom was Donna Summer. We’re talking Who’s gayer? to live with 365 days a year. I don’t think I could people who couldn’t be out at work, walk Jake: We’re both pretty gay. I think I’m probably What’s your biggest pet peeve about the other? be that. It’s about striking a balance. down the street feeling safe and hold the hand gayer than Ana. I couldn’t exactly put my finger Jake: Of course there’s a gazillion, because we What’s a song of yours that turns you on? of the person they love, and they’re rejected by on why. Maybe because I’m gay. (Laughs) live on top of each other and we’ve literally religion. The one place they can be free is the Ana: Good question. It’s a tie, to be honest. His lived on top of each other for 10 years now. You Jake: Ew, none of them! Gross. I can’t even nightclub, and Donna Summer’s voice was the sex is a lot gayer than mine. learn to take the pet peeves and laugh at them – imagine. No, no. There’s not one that exists. voice of gospel. She made dance music spiritual. and laugh at them when the other person’s not You’ve never had sex to any of your music? What’s your idea of a magic hour? Tell me about the best prank you’ve pulled on listening. (Laughs) each other. We don’t fight that much anymore. We Jake: No! Years ago I remember I was making Jake: The best hour that I’ve ever had in my life used to bicker much more than we do now. out with some guy – this was, like, 10 years ago is always that hour before sunrise – that’s kind of Jake: Oh god. She was in Florida and she called We’re a lot happier now on the road with each – and one of my songs came on shuffle and it what the album is named after. There’s nothing that me and Babydaddy and said there was a stalker other. It’s not so intense. was awful. It ruined the mood. makes me happier than having been out all night that had been showing up at the gigs and she was Ana: Oh yeah, totally. We’ve grown up a lot. with my friends or with my husband and then the really freaked out, and then she forgot to finish the How did the passing of Donna Summer and And touring with him and being confronted sun’s about to come up and you’re at someplace prank for some reason and didn’t call us again for with people on a daily basis in a very small Robin Gibb, who’ve been very influential on really beautiful. Those are my favorite moments. a week. We couldn’t get ahold of her. We thought space – i.e. the tour bus – will get you dealing Scissor Sisters, affect you? It could be the hour after sunset, like right when she was dead in the back of somebody’s trunk. with things in a very direct and quick way. the sun is setting or right before sunrise. It’s the Jake: I feel bad for the families and their loved Ana: And they got me back for it. Because they We’re very good at arguing now. ones, but I don’t get as sad about death when time when there are no shadows. were really concerned and they were going to it’s someone who has experienced and had such What are your tour essentials? file a police report, they in turn had our manager But that doesn’t answer the question. write an email to me and say, “Oh, by the way, an incredible life as Robin Gibb and Donna Ana: Do I really have to say this? You’re stirring Jake: Usually my Kindle, which I don’t have we’re sending cops by the person’s house.” And Summer, who have gifted the world with so much a pot. He has horrible table manners. Just on this trip; I’m actually reading real books. I was like, “Oh my god, no! Don’t do that!” I’m outrageously incredible work. I just get reflective. terrible. That’s all I’m gonna say. (Laughs) The band’s been talking about this a lot, and I’m a book lover, but the Kindle is a fucking making frantic phone calls and nobody’s picking Babydaddy and I have always been massive fans godsend for me when I’m running around. My up. They fucking got me back. And that cured me www.PrideSource.com Theater / June 21, 2012 / BTL 27 Ringwald’s Gay Play Series fills the bill with talent BY JOHN QUINN

While by no means the smallest venue in Metro Detroit, Ferndale’s Ringwald Theatre is bustin’ at the seams this month with 11 one-act plays and scads of your favorite actors and directors. The occasion is the third installment of the Gay Play Series, which has proven so popular that the number of scripts submitted for production has burgeoned from 17 the first year to 175 this season. Presumably we’re seeing the best of the best. Some of them are sketches or vignettes; others are fully realized, but very short, plays. GPS is like a box of chocolates: Not everything is going to be to your taste, but the offerings are so good you’ll be glad you sampled every one. The plays are split into blocks, played as two separate performances. In Block A, we find Tony Foster’s wildly original “Defrost,” directed by PJ Jacokes. The bliss of new couple Jeremy St. Martin and Travis Pelto is threatened by a possible menage a trois, which includes the mysterious Chef Colette (Michelle Giorlando). “Defrost” is a bright bit of comedy, intelligently played. “Turnaround,” by Ringwald’s artistic director, Joe Bailey, turns the magnifying glass on the repulsive specimens who lurk in the underbelly of the film industry. Jamie Richards, Melissa Beckwith and Heidi Bennett ably portray some of the most vapid, Josh Campos from “Fanny Packs and Hanky Codes” by Kristian O’Hare, one of 11 plays in the 2012 unpleasant characters in memory - no one Gay Play Series at The Ringwald Theatre. Photo: Matthew Turner Shelton could you take home to mother. “Queer/Trek” by Brian Walker takes a Nick Gnagi) who is auditioning for the role REVIEW predictable plot and stands it on its ear. We of Lance Dubois. Yes, you read that right; find coming out as gay to the folks may not Gay Play Series there’s a whole lot of gender-bending goin’ be as hard as coming out as a Trekkie (or is on. Directed by Sean McClellan and featuring “Trekker” more P.C.?). As directed by Gary The Ringwald Theatre, 22742 Woodward Ave., Pete Podolski and Brad Stephens, “Streetcar” Lehman, the comic build to an unexpected Ferndale. Block A: 8 p.m. June 22 & 1 p.m. will cause a bad case of the giggles once you climax is perfect. June 24; Block B: 8 p.m. June 23 & 5 p.m. June 24; Closing ceremonies: 8 p.m. June 25. accept the preposterous plot. “Mate Trade” by Laura Witkowski Joe Bailey tackles the most difficult & Cara Trautman mocks the “Wife Swap” Running time: About 100 minutes each block. $10 per event. 248-545-5545. script in the collection. The others are full of genre of TV reality series. Matios Simonian humor and affection, but there’s nothing funny hosts one half of a lesbian couple, Laura www.TheRingwald.com in “Break Your Face on My Hand” by Daniel Heikkinen, in his Ann Arbor home. Director Talbott. There’s nothing funny in bullying. Topher Payne follows the playwrights’ lead returns from deployment overseas. “Ask Jeffrey Vincent Howson and Christopher in deftly managing stereotype for comedy Me! Tell Me!” is directed by Nancy Arnfield. Burns play a high school bully and his victim. without cliche. Directed by Lisa Melinn, “Pocket Kristian O’Hare crafted a beautifully Universe” by Duncan Pflaster is a subtle, Avoiding suspension by spending time with insightful piece in “Fanny Packs & Hanky layered fantasy of unrequited love. Richard his victim, the bully nevertheless continues Codes,” directed by Matthew Turner Shelton. Payton and Brian Papandrea play on a bare harassment. There is a structural problem with Identifying what someone else needs is a lot stage, accompanied by fine lighting and the script that, while the plot moves efficiently harder than identifying the color of a kerchief sound effects. This bittersweet script is a from Point A to Point B, the characters, as in the dim lighting of a leather bar. totally original spin on an old theme. written, lack the emotional nuances one would “Homochondria” by Brad Baron and “Ten Picnics” by Mark Harvey Levine is expect in that progress. directed by Michelle Leroy is an over-the- a tender homage to the family and the circle Audience members for GPS will be top burlesque concerning the cursed Casey of life that drives it. Director Joe Plambeck voting for their favorite script. The winner Hibbert, his long-suffering partner, Joe allows Cal Schwartz to unleash his inner will receive an additional performance at the Plambeck, and a Ghost of Divas Past and child; Genevieve Jona and Melissa Beckwith closing ceremonies on Monday, June 25 Present (Heidi Bennett). The result is good, play not only his mothers, but all the other at 8 p.m. and will subsequently receive a silly fun. women in his life. This is an intelligent script, full production at The Ringwald Theatre. Block B consists of five plays, beginning gracefully handled. Audience members will also be asked with “Ask Me! Tell Me!” by Andrew Charles “A Streetcar Named Viagra” by Daniel to vote for a favorite actor and director. Lark. This vignette would have benefitted Curzon is another screwball comedy, Imagine that: You little people having with a less literal interpretation. Caryn Hottle- concerning the work-in-progress “A Streetcar the opportunity to be critics for a day, Malion spontaneously plays a Cyrano-like Named Desire” that, thank the Muses, never possessing the demi-godlike power that stand in at the airport where Curtis Younce got to Broadway. We meet the fiery redhead, goes with our exalted profession! Wield is meeting his e-mail pal, Casey, as the G.I. Desiree Viagra, (the towering, high-heel-shod it if you dare! 28 BTL \ June 21, 2012 \ Happenings www.PrideSource.com

Community College, Ann Arbor. 734-834- Registration Rally to register, educate and 200. Tickets: $45-65. Sound Board 0598. Jimytoycenter.org energize voters for the upcoming August 7 Theater, 2901 Grand River Ave., Detroit. and November 6, 2012 election. The event 8 p.m. June 28. 866-752-9622. Mysterious, Marvelous Monday 6 p.m. initiative, This is My Vote, is designed to Olympiaentertainment.com Happenings Mysterious, Marvelous Monday is the answer unprecedented restrictions on ballot metamorphosis of Wild Wednesday. Youth access and to increase civic participation Royal Oak Music Theatre Scissor Sisters; group for ages 13-18. Fostering a kind among unregistered, minority, young and Spawned by the scuzzy, gay nightlife allied women of our community. RSVP Sunday, June 24 and supportive environment. Dedicated to scene of New York, the band took their via email. OutGirls, 412 State St., St. elderly voters. Ypsilanti-Willow Run NAACP, Agape Spirit Life Ministry Service 1 Make a Change, L3C, 319 Braun Ct., Ann Michigan Ave. and S. Hamilton, Ypsilanti. name from a sexual position between two OUTINGS Joseph. [email protected] Arbor. 734-657-1792. Gailwolkoff@gmail. women also known as tribadism. Tickets: OutCenter.org p.m. Potluck style event. Bring “The 12 734-678-4136. [email protected] Thursday, June 21 steps of Forgiveness by Paul Ferrini” com Dedicatedtomakeachange.com $25. Royal Oak Music Theatre, 318 W. Flint Gay Pride 10 p.m. Flint’s first and a Bible to worship in a diverse, Fourth St., Royal Oak. 8 p.m. June 27. 11 a.m. The first Sexual Compulsives Anonymous LGBT Midwest Job Expo annual gay pride event, this year at welcoming community. Participants will 248-399-2980. RoyalOakMusicTheatre. of its kind in Michigan, Affirmations will 7 p.m. A weekly anonymous 12-step the UM-Flint Riverfront. Flint Gay Pride use various books along with the Bible com host over 20 companies from all over the group for those who are facing sexually MUSIC & MORE Society, Wellness Aids Services, UM-Flint to gain practical tools for daily living as Midwest region. Providing a welcoming compulsive behaviors. Affirmations, 290 The Ark The Pines, Tickets: $15. The Ark, Riverfront Pavilion, Flint. 810-232-0888 we worship. Every second and fourth CONCERTS open environment for job seekers to feel W. 9 Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. June 29. ex. 204. Facebook.com/pages/Flint-Gay- Sunday. Agape Spirit Life Ministries, 290 safe in expressing themselves while GoAffirmations.org Detroit Symphony Orchestra “20th 734-761-1800. TheArk.org Pride-Society/154585004603937 W. 9 Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. pursing employment. This will also be Annual Salute to America” Join the DSO Goaffirmations.org The Ark “Gandalf Murphy & the the first opportunity for companies and and celebrate 20 years of partnership Tuesday, June 26 with Greenfield Village. Blissful Slambovian Circus of Dreams” Tickets: organizations to improve its diversity, while Saturday, June 23 Lezread 4 p.m. Ann Arbors book group 4th Annual LGBT & Allies Pride Awards midsummer evenings in Greenfield Village, $20. The Ark, 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor. 8 also recruiting from one of the best talent LGBT Older Adult Summit 9 a.m. Keynote for Lesbians. Meets the last Sunday of Banquet 6 p.m. Includes a reception, scrumptious picnic meals and beverages p.m. July 5. 734-761-1800. TheArk.org pools in the Midwest region, including the presentation by Robert Espinoza, Senior every month. Lezread, 319 Braun Court, dinner, and awards program with keynote from our concert menu, and a dazzling diverse Metro Detroit area. Affirmations, Director of Public Policy & Communications Ann Arbor. 734-678-2478. lezread@ The Ark Paul Thorn Tickets: $25. The Ark, speaker, Michelle E. Brown, a Detroit musical program of patriotic favorites, all 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398- at SAGE, New York. Panel Discussion yahoo.com 316 S. Main, Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. June 22. African-American, speaker, author, and topped off with a breathtaking fireworks 7105. GoAffirmations.org featuring Health, Long Term Care, and HIV/ activist. Tickets: $25 per person or $15 734-761-1800. TheArk.org AIDS. Workshops: Managing Your Healthcare, TransCend 4:30 p.m. Open to persons display. Greenfield Village, 20900 for students/limited income. Perceptions The Palace “Aerosmith with Cheap Legal Referral Services 4 p.m. Weekly Protecting Your Finances, Employment & 18 and older. Younger are welcome with Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn. June 30-July 4. Saginaw Valley, 120 Ezra Rust, Saginaw. Trick” Aerosmith’s “Global Warming advocacy program and referral services Volunteer Opportunities, and Older Adult/ parent or guardian permission. Kalamazoo 313-982-6001. DSO.org 989-891-1429. PerceptionsSV.org Tour.” Tickets: $29.50-149.50. Palace of provided by AJ Skillman. AJ Skillman P.C., Youth Networking. Admission is free of Gay Lesbian Resource Center, 629 Pioneer Farmington Hills Department Cultural Auburn Hills, 5 Championship Dr., Auburn 290 W. 9 Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398- church and includes breakfast and lunch. Street, Kalamazoo. 269-349-4234. Arts “Lookin’ Back” A tribute to Bob Seger, Hills. 7:30 p.m. July 5. 248-377-0100. 7105. Goaffirmations.org LGBT Older Adult Coalition and Detroit Elder [email protected] kglrc.org Wednesday, June 27 Lookin’ Back regularly plays to sold-out Palacenet.com 26th Annual Pride Banquet & Awards Project, 3408 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 248- Conversation Station 5 p.m. Topic: What Coping with Disabilities 1 p.m. For anyone audiences. Free. Heritage Park Amphitheatre, with a mental or physical illness that makes Ceremony 6:30 p.m. On its 26th 398-7105. LGBTOlderAdults.com do you fear most in life? Get Out And Live!, Heritage Park, Farmington Road, Farmington OTHER anniversary the banquet will honor people 714 S. Washington St., Royal Oak. 248- every-day life more challenging. Discussions Hills. 7 p.m. June 28. FHGov.com 2nd Annual Washtenaw Pride Picnic Green Living Festival “Green Living who have made outstanding contributions 981-4227. [email protected] about LGBT friendly doctors, counseling, 11 a.m. Washtenaw’s second annual Great Lakes Chamber Music Festival Festival” One of the largest green/wellness of time and talent to the LGBT community. GetOutAndLive.me health benefits, and activities. Every second Pride Picnic, organized by local LGBT and fourth Wednesday. Affirmations, 290 W. In a season titled White Nights: A events on the planet, bringing together Nominations are solicited from all over organizations. Bring a picnic basket and Michigan, but only a select will be chosen Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. musical journey through Russia, the tens of thousands of people to discover beverages for family friendly fun in Olson Goaffirmations.org 2012 Festival will present music by and enjoy earth-friendly and healthy living to receive awards. , 26601 Ryan Road, Park. Free children’s area, grills, recycling Warren. Goaffirmations.org Russia’s greatest composers including products, services and programs. Third St. area, and info tables. Jim Toy Community Senior Koffee Klatch 1 p.m. A lively, Stravinsky, Rachmaninoff, Tchaikovsky, and Water St., Rochester. June 22-June KGLRC Youth Group 7 p.m. The Resource Center, 1505 Dhu Varren Rd., Ann Arbor. discussion and social group for LGBT and Shostakovich, among others. In 2012, 24. MiGreenTeam.com Center Youth Group helps young people, 734-995-9867. Jimytoycenter.org adults over 45. Group covers topics the Festival will collaborate with local pertaining to aging and outside speakers. Magic Bag “Domestic Problems & Knee ages 13 to 18, who are trying to come to Tri-City LGBT Pride 1 p.m. Drag show artistic groups to undertake three major terms with their sexuality in a sometimes- Potluck dinners at members homes, productions of four complex works by Deep Shag” Special reunion performance. hosted by Alicia Moore, Missy MiCock, Ace lunches out and holiday parties. Meets Tickets: $15. Magic Bag, 22920 unaccepting society. Meets every DeVille, Asio Aviance and Sandy Beach. Igor Stravinsky. Tickets and a complete Thursday from 7-9 p.m. at a confidential ever Wednesday on the upper level of the schedule available online. Venues Woodward Ave., Ferndale. 8 p.m. June 22. Musical performances from Tana Michaels, Affirmations building. Senior Koffee Klatch, 248-544-1991. TheMagicBag.com location. To attend, call or e-mail the Drag King Rebellion, The Fundamentalists, throughout metro Detroit, Various Venues, resource center. Kalamazoo Gay and 290 W. Road Mile Road, Ferndale. 586- Detroit. June 9-June 24. 248-559-2097. James Taylor Jr. and The Banana Convention. 573-9932. Www.GoAffirmations.org Lesbian Resource Center, 629 Pioneer, Guest speakers: Alicia Skillman, Saginaw GreatLakesChamberMusic.org Kalamazoo. 269-349-4234. Kglrc.org Mayor Greg Branch and Democratic LGBTQI Affirming Bible Study 6 p.m. Kerrytown Concert House “Delfeayo THEATER Monsters, Madmen & The Whimsically Candidate for Congress Dan Kildee. Food, Why do Christians sometimes interpret Marsalis” A National Endowment for the Twisted 7:30 p.m. Hear tenors Jay vendors, games and entertainment. Divine the Bible in ways that marginalize LGBTQ Arts 2011 Jazz Master Award recipient CIVIC/COMMUNITY THEATER Light Interfaith Ministry, Ojibway Island, people? Discussing Biblical cultural Kaplan, Jeffrey Willets, Soprano Carla Tri-City LGBT Pride in Saginaw brings his sextet to Ann Arbor’s Kerrytown Legally Blonde-The Musical Margolis and accompanist Elisabeth Saginaw. TriCityLGBTPride.com norms and how humans have evolved Concert House to perform selections $12-15. Center Stage Jackson at in significant ways since the Bible Wagner as they serenade you down the ALIVE Youth Group Meeting 2 p.m. All from his project Sweet Thunder as well Baughman Theatre, Potter Center, musical path of the Monstrous, Mad and Monday, June 25 was written. Pilgrim Congregational as other original compositions and Jackson Community College, Jackson. LGBT and allied youth 14-20 encouraged United Church of Christ-Welcoming And Whimsically twisted Broadway characters to join. 4th Saturday of every month is Jim Toy Community Center Pride arrangements. Tickets: $15-35. Kerrytown Through June 24. 517-782-8473. through song. Aut Bar, 315 Braun Court, Dinner 6 p.m. Award-winning CNN and Affirming Church, 125 S. Pennsylvania Concert House, 415 N Fourth Ave., Ann Centerstagejackson.org Social Justice Saturday. As some meetings Ave., Lansing. 517-484-7434. Mike@ Ann Arbor. AutBar.com are held around town, contact ALIVE ESPN online gay journalist LZ Granderson Arbor. 6:30 p.m. June 24. 734-769-2999. keynotes the Jim Toy Pride Dinner. The pilgrimucc.com PilgrimUCC.com KerryTownConcertHouse.com Legally Blonde-The Musical $25-29. prior to attending meetings. ALIVE Youth The Croswell, 129 E. Maumee St., Adrian. Friday, June 22 Group, 132 Water St., Benton Harbor. event honors Dr. Sandra Cole, a noted Network Men’s Group 7 p.m. A support sexologist and longtime champion of Olympia Entertainment “An Evening with Through June 24. 517-264-SHOW. OutGirls 7 p.m. Out Girls began as an [email protected] group for bisexual, gay, and coming out Aretha Franklin” The Queen of Soul, Aretha croswell.org equality for transgender individuals. men, 21 and up. Single or partnered offshoot of our women’s support group, Tickets: $85 per person or $150 for two. Franklin, will perform at Detroit’s historic designed to be a relaxed, supportive are invited to join the group. Weekly Fox Theatre. Franklin is a cultural icon and Yankee Tavern $15-20. Emergent Arts Tickets available online or at the JTCC. discussion topics and issues. The Theatre Company at Riverside Arts Center, dinner gathering that is open to all Jim Toy Community Center, Washtenaw multi-award winning artist with dozens lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and Network, 345 Atlas Ave., Grand Rapids. of chart-topping records and timeless 76 N. Huron St., Ypsilanti. June 28-July 1. 616-458-3511. Grlgbt.org classics hits such as “Respect”, “Chain Of 734-483-7345. emergentarts.com Fools”, “Think”, “Daydreaming” and “Free Thursday, June 28 Of Love.” Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY THEATER Civic Engagement Committee 1 p.m. Ave., Detroit. 8 p.m. June 22. 313-471- Fourth Thursdays, May 24, 1PM at 6611. Olympiaentertainment.com You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown Free. Editor’s Pick Lansing Community College Performing the OutCenter. Empowering people to Olympia Entertainment “Steven Martin The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, performs advocate and speak out for themselves Arts at LCC Outdoor Amphitheatre, N. and The Steep Canyon Ranges” Steve Washington behind Dart Auditorium, at Detroit’s historic Fox Theatre on June 22. and the LGBT community is key to Martin and The Steep Canyon Rangers is creating effective change. Our Civic Lansing. June 20-24. 517-483-1488. LCC. a bluegrass band that released its first edu/showinfo Franklin is a cultural icon and multi- Engagement committee organizes to collaborative album “Rare Bird Alert” award winning artist with dozens of chart- educate and resource our community in March, 2011. The record debuted PROFESSIONAL members to make a difference in our at number 1 on Billboard’s Bluegrass topping records and timeless classic hits Adult Education: Storytelling After community. E-mail to learn more. Chart and #43 on the Billboard’s Top such as “Respect,” “Chain Of Fools” and OutCenter, 132 Water St., Benton Hours $10. The Acorn Theater, 107 Harbor. [email protected] Generations Dr., Three Oaks. June 28. “Daydreaming.” She has been a recipient OutCenter.org 269-756-3879. acorntheater.com of a 2005 Presidential Medal of Freedom Holland Gay Pride 7 p.m. Performance by Avenue Q $26-$39.75. Mason Street honor, 17 Grammy Awards and a Grammy LGBT choir, “In Harmony,” and a screening Warehouse, 400 Culver St., Saugatuck. Lifetime Achievement Award. Franklin ‘s ever- of the award-winning documentary June 22-July 15. 269-857-2399. masonstreetwarehouse.org distinctive soulful vocal style has graced the music charts for over four decades. She “Out at Work.” Screening followed by a discussion led by Jay Kaplan. Dessert Chaps! $12-28. Hope Summer Repertory has influenced generations of singers from Chaka Khan, Natalie Cole and Mary J. and refreshments to follow. All events are Theatre at Knickerbocker Theatre, 86 E. Blige to “American Idol” winner Fantasia Barrino and Oscar-winner Jennifer Hudson. free but donations are welcome. PFLAG 8th Street, Holland. Through Aug. 10. 616- Holland and Holland is Ready, 248 S. River 395-7890. hope.edu/HRST Aretha is simply one of a kind. Ave., Holland. 616-928-0855. Aretha performs at 8 p.m. June 22 at the Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward Ave., in Detroit. Cirque D’Or $17-22. Meadow Brook Saturday, June 30 Music Festival, 3554 Walton Blvd., Tickets are $35.50-75. For more information go to www.OlympiaEntertainment.com. Rochester Hills. June 23. 248-377-0100. This is My Vote 12 p.m. The Ypsilanti- palacenet.com Willow Run Branch of the NAACP is hosting a GOTV (Get Out The Vote) Community Voter Steve Martin at Sound Board Theater www.PrideSource.com Happenings / June 21, 2012 / BTL 29

Diary of a Worm, a Spider, and a Fly Sylvia $15-18. Two Muses Theatre at Kalamazoo Institute of Arts “Bird of a $12. Hope Summer Repertory Theatre at Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 6800 Orchard Feather” 314 S. Park St., Kalamazoo. May Studio Theatre in the DeWitt Center, 141 Lake Road, West Bloomfield. Through July 1-June 24. 269-349-7775. KIarts.org E. 12th St., Holland. June 18-Aug. 10. 1. 248-850-9919. TwoMusesTheatre.org Lawrence Street Gallery “Lit from 616-395-7890. hope.edu/hsrt Taking Care of Mimi $17-20. Detroit Within” Featuring the work of Jennifer Fireside Festival of New Works Pay- Repertory Theatre, 13103 Woodrow Hatcher of Burton. 22620 Woodward Ave. what-you-can (Suggested donation $10). Wilson, Detroit. Through June 24. 313- Suite A, Ferndale. May 31-June 30. 248- Performance Network Theatre, 120 E. 868-1347. detroitreptheatre.com 544-0394. Lawrencestreetgallery.com Huron St., Ann Arbor. June 24-27. 734- The Light in the Piazza $25-29. Michigan State University Museum 763-8587. performancenetwork.org Farmers Alley Theatre, 221 Farmers Alley, “Echoes of Silent Spring: 50 Years of Gay Play Series $10-25 per event. The Kalamazoo. Through July 1. 269-343- Environmental Awareness” The MSU Ringwald Theatre, 22742 Woodward Ave., 2727. farmersalleytheatre.com Museum revisits the publication of the Ferndale. Through June 25. 248-545- landmark book, Silent Spring by Rachel The Mute Quire $10-15. The New 5545. TheRingwald.com. Carson, credited with launching the See our ad on Theatre Project & Fratellanza at Mix page 7. modern environmental movement. 409 W. Studio Theater, 130 W. Michigan Ave., Circle Dr., East Lansing. June 1-Nov. 30. Hot Dog Mondays $5. Planet Ant Theatre, Ypsilanti. June 17-July 1. 734-645-9776. Museum.msu.edu/?q=node/527 2357 Caniff Ave., Hamtramck. 313-365- thenewtheatreproject.org 4948. planetant.com Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit Wicked $38 and up. Wharton Center for “Vertical Urban Factory” The innovative Idina Menzel $35.50-$110.95. Detroit the Performing Arts at Michigan State design of factory buildings that are both Opera House, 1526 Broadway St., University, East Lansing. June 27-July 8. urban and vertical. 4454 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 7 p.m. June 27. 313-237-7464. 800-WHARTON. WhartonCenter.com Detroit. May 11-July 29. 313-832-6622. michiganopera.org MOCADetroit.org In the Next Room or the vibrator play Preservation Detroit “Pewabic Bus Previews June 21 ($15-$32). $25-$41. ART ‘N’ AROUND Tour of Detroit” Admission: $50. Pewabic Performance Network Theatre, 120 E. Box Factory for the rts “Michigan 10th Pottery, 10125 E. Jefferson Ave., Detroit. Huron St., Ann Arbor. Through July 15. 10 a.m. June 23. 248-884-5993. 734-663-0681. PerformanceNetwork.org Annual Art Competition” 1101 Broad St., St. Joseph. June 15-July 28. 269-983- Preservationdetroit.org Love’s Labour’s Lost $6-12. Pigeon Creek Shakespeare Company at Dog Story Theatre, 7 Jefferson Ave. SE, Grand Rapids. June 21-July 1. dogstorytheater.com Editor’s Pick While many theaters close for the summer months, Ann Arbor’s Performance Network is full steam ahead, offering audiences an array of entertainment options, including the upcoming Fireside Festival of New Works. As part of the theater’s continued dedication to support and provide a voice for playwrights, the series will be held June 24-27, 2012 and will feature staged readings of new plays by four playwrights, including Network regulars Joseph Zettelmaier and Kim Carney. Each reading will be followed by a post-show discussion with the playwright and director, during which audience members are encouraged to share their thoughts on the pieces that they have seen. The schedule includes “The Queen of Spades” by Joel Gross (Sunday, June 24, 7:30 p.m.), “Hungry” by Lia Romeo (Monday, June 25, 7 p.m.), “The Renaissance Man” by Joseph Zettelmaier (Tuesday, June 26, 7 p.m.), and “Catbird” by Kim Carney (Wednesday, June 27, 7 p.m.). Tickets are pay-what-you-can (suggested donation $10); call 734-663-0681 for details.

Macbeth $10-15. Blackbird Theatre, West 3688. BoxFactoryfortheArts.org Park Band Shell, 300 N. Seventh Ave., Ann The Detroit Institute of Arts “Fine Arbor. Through June 30. Charles H. Wright Museum of African Spanish Masterpieces” 2100 Woodward American History “Great American Ave., Detroit. June 21-Aug. 19. 313-833- On Broadway 1956 $24-$27. Tibbits Artists-Part II: The Branches” 315 E. 7900. DIA.org Summer Theatre, 14 S. Hanchett St., Warren, Detroit. May 3-Sep. 1. 313-494- The Gallery Project “Nature As Spirit” Coldwater. June 28-July 7. 517-278- 5853. TheWright.org 6029. tibbits.org A multimedia exhibit in which 30 local, Cranbrook Art Museum “George Nelson: regional, and national artists explore On Golden Pond Previews June 21-24 & Architect / Writer/ Designer / Teacher” Nature as a source of spirituality in 27-28 ($20-$30). $17.50-40. The Purple The first comprehensive retrospective of contemporary life. 215 S. Fourth Ave., Ann Rose Theatre Company, 137 Park St., Nelson’s work. 39221 Woodward Ave., Arbor. June 7-July 15. 734-997-7012. Chelsea. June 21-Sep. 1. 734-433-7673. Bloomfield Hills. June 16-Oct. 14. 877- TheGalleryProject.com purplerosetheatre.org 462-7262. CranbrookArtMuseum.org The New Territory Arts Association and Pal Joey $34. Barn Theatre, 13351 W. Flint Institute of Arts “Abstract Krasl Art Center “Swinging for Sculpture” M-96, Augusta. June 19-July 1. 269-731- Expressionism” 1120 E. Kearsley, Flint. May Golf Club at Harbor Shores, 400 Klock 4121. barntheatre.com 5-Aug. 19. 810-234-1695. Flintarts.org Road, Benton Harbor. 11 a.m. June 25. 269-983-0271. KRASL.org Pride and Prejudice $12-21. Hope Grand Rapids Art Museum “Cities in Summer Repertory Theatre at Dewitt Transition” 101 Monroe Center, Grand University of Michigan Museum of Art Theatre, 141 E. 12th St., Holland. June 22- Rapids. June 1-Aug. 26. 616-831-2904. “Judith Turner: The Flatness of Ambiguity” July 28. 616-395-7890. hope.edu/hsrt Artmuseumgr.org 525 S. State St, Ann Arbor. June 9-Sep. 2. 734-647-0524. Umma.umich.edu Sandbox Play Festival $10. Tipping Point Heidelberg Project Gallery “Wall Theatre, 361 Cady St., Northville. June 22- Flowers” Quilts by Hilda Vest. 42 Watson, Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts 24. 248-347-0003. tippingpointtheatre.com Detroit. June 3-June 30. 313-974-6894. “Urbanity” 2 West Fulton, Grand Rapids. May 3-July 5. 616-454-7000. UICA.org Sleeping Beauty $10 adult, $5 children. Heidelberg.org PuppetART at Detroit Puppet Theater, 25 E. Grand River, Detroit. Through June 30. 313-961-7777. puppetart.org Super Sweat $20. The Acorn Theater, 107 Generations Dr., Three Oaks. June 29-30. 269-756-3879. acorntheater.com 30 BTL \ June 21, 2012 \ Rear View www.PrideSource.com Across 55 Verb ending 17 Bambi character that wasn’t horny? 56 Church member named for a 18 Slangy intensifier What’s a Matzo 1 Hazard for Sheehan member? 25 Mild oath 5 Like some division 59 “Culpa” starter 27 Data transmission letters 9 “Ed Wood” role 60 End of the saying 28 Ward of “Once and Again” 13 Gauche side, for Debussy 62 A little behind 31 MD for women 14 New Age music superstar 63 Lickety-split (abbr.) 32 Auction web site 15 “Phantom” scar source 64 Sgt. Snorkel’s pooch 34 Subj. for those of a different tongue 16 Start of a Fay Jacobs saying about 65 Marvel Comics superhero matzo 35 Threesome who went to see Mary 66 ___ guys (Robin Hood’s men?) 19 F.D.R. or J.F.K., e.g. 37 From ___ Z (the whole shebang) 67 One with a foamy head 20 City of Capote’s birth 38 Anal type? 21 Sked info 41 Tinged with pink 22 Home state of J. Nabors 42 She loved Franklin and Lorena 23 “... farewell, auf Wiedersehen, ___” Down 43 Treat, as seawater 44 Christian name of the half-brother 24 Uncool sort 1 Neptune’s tool of Chaz 26 Chat rm. exaggeration? 2 Rosie’s WWII job 45 Open one’s eyes 29 Muscle Mary’s weight training unit 3 Prayer to the Queen of Heaven 47 One who’s wanted 30 Disaster sorting 4 White House souvenir 50 Juice, so to speak 33 Appear to be 5 Fair kind of playing field 51 Bowie collaborator 36 More of the saying 6 Like unrequited loved 53 Oozes through 39 Responder to “Bite me!”? 7 “Eli’s Coming” songwriter Laura 54 Caligula’s arts 40 The “former next president” 8 Teri of “Tootsie” 57 Ask for it while kneeling 43 Present mo.? 9 Worked the hayfields 58 Cushiness 46 “___-hoo! Fellas!” 10 It may cream your face when you 61 Choreographer Fosse 48 Clay Aiken was almost one bite it 49 Flee to a same-sex marriage state 11 Mortgage holder Solution on pg 31 52 Neighbor of Mex. 12 Comes out correctly

Say hello to Paris!

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For more information, please visit or call the MHS Rochester Hills Center for Animal Care at (248) 852-7420 and provide the pet ID number, 720266. Photo courtesy Heidi Waeschle-Gabel. www.PrideSource.com Rear View / June 21, 2012 / BTL 31

Horoscopes Don’t fuss, Taurus!

BY JACK FERTIG

Pride festivities peak annually when the Sun enters Cancer, the sign of family and community. This year, issues of spirituality and religion come up to help affirm LGBT spirituality, leading to deeper questions about our individual and collective identities.

ARIES (March 20 – April SCORPIO (October 23 19): Avoid any games of – November 21): Being verbal one-upmanship. You’ll responsible for a problem does just hurt feelings and have not mean being at fault and to eat your words. If you’re solution is more important than really so clever, you can figure blame. How much responsibility out what needs work in your you should take is hard to judge. relationship. Listening to your Take on what you can, but partner will help. overdoing it is self-sabotage. Gauge your capacities carefully. TAURUS (April 20 – May 20): Arguments over money SAGITTARIUS (November 22 arise too easily, especially over – December 20): Eagerness to silly details like splitting a lunch explore new sexual techniques check. Don’t fuss over pennies. can improve your relationship There are more important things or your chances for getting into than money. Think long and hard one. If your baby balks, let it about what really matters. You be “just a suggestion.” Even may surprise yourself. without pursuing new pleasures the suggestion can open GEMINI (May 21- June 20): up conversations that build Try a new look, go shopping for greater intimacy. clothes. If money is tight, hit the thrift shops. Your imagination CAPRICORN (December 21 and an open mind are better than – January 19): Your ability to any amount of money. Good as shut up and listen to job critiques your own queer eye is, a friend’s determines your ability to profit encouragement will help. from them. There’s always room for improvement. You CANCER (June 21- July 22): don’t have to agree with every New insights can be a little scary, criticism, but listen and think but best to look deeper and find carefully before responding. out what they’re really about. Irritation with other people, AQUARIUS (January 20 – awful and annoying though they February 18): Efforts at having are, is more about you than them. fun are likely to get you into trouble. Unless you’re considering Visit our website! LEO (July 23 – August 22): You skydiving, that doesn’t have to http://www.pridesource.com need some private down time. stop you. How much trouble Plans with friends may need Add our fan page! can you handle? You might find canceling, but that’s OK. Your Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” arguments fun, but your opponent real friends will understand, is probably not amused. Follow us! and the rest don’t matter. New @YourBTL creative efforts can cure social PISCES (February 19 – March ennui, but the real answers are 19): “Family fun” doesn’t have deep inside you. to be an oxymoron, although efforts may seem easily muddled Solution to puzzle from page 30 VIRGO (August 23 – and misunderstood. Listening September 22): Stay calm, rather than pushing can help. measure your words carefully, Or leave them alone and try out and just keep putting one foot in some new recipes or restaurants front of the other. Read the myth with adventurous friends. of Cassandra. Let people take or leave what you have to tell them. Jack Fertig, a professional They’ll eventually realize you astrologer since 1977, is available were right. for personal and business LIBRA (September 23 – consultations in person in San October 22): Your efforts to Francisco, or online everywhere. smooth out problems at home He can be reached at 415-864- will only backfire. If you really want things to be nice, be a good 8302, through his website at listener and get a sense of how www.starjack.com, and by email you can improve your own self at [email protected]. and your actions. 32 BTL \ June 21, 2012 \ Rear View www.PrideSource.com Classifieds 101-ANNOUNCEMNTS LGBT AA MEETINGS

Ann Arbor-Friday 7:30 pm, St. Andrews Episcopal ! Church Gay AA, 306 N. Division St. Closed/Discussion. Bloomfield Hills- classiﬁeds Thursday com/ 7:00 pm ,Sobriety in The Hills your ad here Gay AA, Kirk in The Hills Church, 1340 W. Long Lake Rd. Closed/ visit: pridesource. Discussion. Detroit-Tuesday / Friday call: 734-293-7200 ex 15 8:00 pm, Downtown Gay AA, Fort Street Presbyterian Church, 631 West Fort St. Closed/ Discussion (Open 1st Friday of every month). 209 REAL ESTATE - 410 PROF. SERVICES Farmington Hills- ROOMS TO RENT - GENERAL Monday 8:00 pm, Suburban West Gay Lodging/Free Rent RON & KEN’S GARAGE AA, Universalist Unitarian in exchange for driving and Licensed Master Mechanics Church, 25301 Halstead (Between 10 & 11 Mile Roads) light chores at Hunting Lodge LAWNMOWER/SNOW Closed / Discussion. in country. Must be sober, BLOWER SALES AND SERVICE. sociable and physically fit. Call 248-477-2922 FARMINGTON Ferndale-Monday / Steve at 517-283-1559 HILLS. Wednesday / Friday 11:30 a.m., Brown Baggers Gay 301 EMPLOYMENT - 428 PROF. SERVICES AA, Affirmations, 290 West 9 GENERAL Mile Rd. Closed/Discussion. - MASSAGE Ferndale-Wednesday Dog Handlers 8 p.m., Diversity Wednesday Gay GROUP MASSAGE Mature adults to supervise AA, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, - For Gay and Bisexual 540 W. Lewiston @ Livernois. dogs and clean areas inside Men. Learn some massage Closed/Discussion. & out. Must be upbeat, flex., techniques and meet others in & customer service oriented a safe and caring environment. Ferndale-Saturday w/dog exp. Part time. Drug Tuesdays and Saturdays at free, No summer only help. 8 p.m. Thursdays at 2 p.m. 1 p.m. Brown Baggers Gay AA, Resume to: dogjobsmichigan@ $10 per session. 209 West Affirmations, 290 West 9 Mile Rd. gmail.com Closed/Discussion. Kingsley in downtown Ann Arbor. (734) 662-6282 or email 8 p.m. Go After Your Sobriety Gay [email protected]. http:// AA, Drayton Ave Presbyterian 306 EMPLOYMENT - www.trymassage.com Church, 2441 Pinecrest. Closed/ BUSINESS Discussion. Livonia-Friday Reservation Clerks 8 p.m., West Side Story’s Gay For dog daycare. Office AA, Providence Medical Center, Exp. req’d. incl. Word & 7 Mile & Newburgh. Closed/ Excel, talking & confirming Discussion. reservations. Must love dogs! Pontiac-Tuesday / Part time, 25-30 hrs/wk. Resume to dogjobsmichigan@ Thursday / Sunday gmail.com 8 p.m., Pontiac Gay AA, Shrine of St. Joseph, 400 West South Blvd. Closed/Discussion. 350 PETS - PETS Warren-Monday 7:30 p.m., Eastside Serenity Gay English Setter Pups AA, Faith-Trinity United Church of Beautiful, intelligent, Christ, 12221 Martin Rd. East of stylish,socialized pets and Hoover. Closed/Discussion. hunters. $400.00 Call 517-283-1559 or www.facebook.com/ lenjenkinshuntclub

To place a classified ad with us, visit PRIDESOURCE.COM/classifieds or call us at 888.615.7003x22 www.PrideSource.com Rear View / June 21, 2012 / BTL 33 Dear Jody Feeling trapped Almost two years and I sure don’t want to sit home on that day Q: ago I met “Jerry” and do nothing! and fell in love. I knew Well, guess what? He said that he had plans then – or at least thought for us on that day: To have a cozy dinner on – that I had met the man the patio that he was going to prepare for me, of my dreams and that and then we’d go to a movie, together. I came life would be wonderful. unglued with that. We had a fight, verbally not I am still in love with physically, but I really thought he was going to him but life doesn’t hit me. I went to bed and we didn’t talk to each feel wonderful, like I other at breakfast this morning. thought it would. It’s I don’t know what to do next or how to beginning to feel like a cage. get it across to him that I’m not happy being so The problem is that Jerry wants me to alone all the time. himself, all to himself. That is exactly how he In a Cage puts it every time I want to go out with friends or just do something without him. So, I really don’t see much of my friends anymore. I know For starters, you tell him how you are that this is pretty normal for new relationships A: feeling, why you are feeling it, and but I’m feeling lonely and needing to see other what needs to happen for you to be happy friends, not just Jerry. In other relationships that in a relationship with him. His behavior is I’ve had, my boyfriend and I would finally roll controlling, and even more to the point, it is out from under the covers and start being social emotionally abusive – that’s the bad news. The again, but this doesn’t seem to be a possibility good news is that you can do something about or the plan in Jerry’s mind. it. You can leave if he’s not willing to change In fact, he has actually said that we don’t his attitude and behavior. Abusers isolate need anyone else in our lives, and that we are and control their partners, and that’s what’s “complete” in and of ourselves. However, that happening to you. In these situations, things does not seem to prevent him from stopping off tend to get worse, not better. after work and having a few drinks with people I am concerned that his emotional abuse he knows. I can’t stop off after work because I will turn into physical abuse as well – maybe not don’t “work” anymore. A year ago Jerry wanted that far away, given you felt he was going to hit me to quit my job and stay home and take care of you this last time. things, because he has to work a lot and doesn’t I strongly recommend that you both get into have time to take care of all the daily stuff. I’m couple’s counseling – and if he won’t go, you go his stay-at-home wife. At the time I thought that anyway. You need to learn what’s going on in that was a good idea and have actually enjoyed this relationship and how you can deal with it. it, but now I’m feeling so lonely. I tried to tell Jerry all this but he keeps going For more about abusive, controlling back to saying that we don’t need others and relationships go to Dear Jody Valley on that his stopping off to have a drink with people Facebook. is part of having to network, and networking is important to his job. Jody Valley spent 12 years as a clinical social Last night I told him about a Fourth of worker. She worked with the LGBT community both July party that I’d like for us to go to – not just as a counselor and a workshop leader in the areas me but both of us. There will be a lot of my old friends there that I haven’t seen for a long of coming out, self-esteem and relationship issues. time. There will also be lots of people that he The “Dear Jody” column appears weekly. Reach Jody knows as well, so I thought he’d really like at [email protected]. Letters may be that idea and be for it. Besides it’s the Fourth edited for clarity and length.

Visit our website! http://www.pridesource.com Add our fan page! Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” Follow us! @YourBTL 34 BTL \ June 21, 2012 \ Rear View www.PrideSource.com Cocktail Chatter Whose dumb idea was this beach house?

BY ED SIKOV (to me) “Are you out of your mind?” and I said “Yes” and Thor arrived and said, “Hallo. Jeg er t was well into June before Dan and I came en utmerket kokk. Jeg vil lage middag,” which to the distressing realization that we’d be apparently is Norwegian for “Hello, I am going Ishort on housemates this season and would to take over your kitchen immediately,” because consequently take a big financial hit. Jack Fogg that is what he did. had broken up with Sammy; Sammy was rooming Friday night’s dinner demanded the use of with the volleyball boys and Jack Fogg was doing nearly every pot and skillet in the house. Dan got the Hamptons. (Figures.) Phil Levine found us too so upset at the mess we were expected to clean up boring and declared his intention to find someplace – the house rule is the cook gets to cook and the as Thor presented the single dish he’d made; why alla Vodka. You simply make a tomato sauce else to spend the summer; it turned out to be rest get to clean up afterward – that he stomped he’d had to use all the pots and pans is anyone’s from minced garlic and salt and plum tomatoes Malaysia. There was nothing to do about it at this upstairs to our room in a huff and wouldn’t guess. “Penne alla Vodka” he proudly announced from a can (which you have roughly chopped in point. Some of the old gang would return, but all come down until Thor cried “Kom, barn! Spis as Dan and I took our seats. That’s when I stole a a food processor). Add some crushed pepper and as quarter shares, not half shares. middag!” which is Norwegian for “Admire my glance at my bottle of Absolut and gasped – it was 1/4 cup of vodka and let it cook. Boil a box of Dan was taking it more in stride than I was, pecs while you eat.” Yes, I failed to mention that empty! The louse had either poured it all into the penne. Before the penne is done, add about half but then he’s a corporate guy and I’m a writer, Thor had been next to naked the entire time he sauce or used half and drank the rest. What a total a cup of cream to the sauce. When the penne is al so he can afford to be relaxed about money and was in our house, having stripped down to a pair waste of fine vodka. Thor will not be invited back. dente, drain it and dump it in a very large bowl. I can’t. For reasons known only to God, I talked of hot pants and nothing else within minutes of Add the sauce, stir in some chopped parsley if him into taking in a one-time-only boarder named arriving. He had a spectacular body, I have to you have any, stir it well, and put two slabs of – I am not kidding – Thor. Thor (it’s hard even admit, but it was too perfect, and his armpit hair Penne alla Vodka butter on top, just for the hell of it. Serve with to type it with a straight face) wanted to stay was so blonde it looked like he’d used peroxide. grated Parmigiano cheese. for a weekend only, so I said sure and Dan said Dan glumly made his way to the table just There’s no mystery whatsoever to Penne I n P r i n t a n d O n l i n e

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S OF www.PrideSource.com BLISHER THE PU FROM m urce.co PrideSo www.PrideSource.com Rear View / June 21, 2012 / BTL 35