ATE AND NATIONAL NEWS, NEWSMAKER INTERVIEWS, OPINION, ENTERTAINMENT, LUMNISTS, EVENT CALENDARS, AND HEALTH RESOURCE LISTINGS NUMBER 455 A PUBLICATION OF THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY APRIL 2012 Day of Silence rally Partnerships is at Tilt, April 20 The Gay Alliance appreciates By Susan Jordan the continuing partnership Every year LGBT and allied of businesses within our youth across the country keep community who support silent all day, and then break the our mission and vision. silence, in memory of the youth who have been silenced by hate Gold: violence, bullying and homo­ phobic discrimination. This year MetLife the Breaking the Silence rally will take place at Tilt, 444 Cen­ Silver: tral Ave., on April 20. This free event is for youth ages 13-23 only. Tilt is a night­ Excellus.' club but will be totally free of alcohol on Friday, April 20. The MorganStanLey rally begins at 4 p.m. and will be File photo of one of around 15,000 gay men sent to death camps by the Nazis. SmithBarney followed by a youth performance and then by a performance by Tony Award-winning Levi Kreis JCC to host exhibit on Nazi persecution of gays NIXON PEABOD'hLl> (to check out his music, go to By Susan Jordan dent of national PFLAG, on cution of Homosexuals, 1933- www.levikreis.com). The Jewish Community "How to be a straight ally," and 1945'. The exhibit exemplifies The Day of Silence will end Center will host an exhibit from a performance by the Rochester the JCC's commitment to being THE BACHELOR with a youth dance from 5-7 The U.S. Holocaust Memorial Gay Men's Chorus. an inclusive, welcoming agency. FORUM Museum on "Nazi Persecution ROCHESTER . NEW YORI( p.m. The evening will also include By hosting this exhibit we have 1WWW .Bl.CHELOR41.1 . CDM GAGVYouth Services Direc­ of Homosexuals, 1933-1945," a dessert reception. The J CC is been able to partner with a wide tor Jessica Cohen said, "Every opening in late May. Related located at 1200 Edgewood Ave. array of Rochester area organi­ TOMPKINrS year, the Day of Silence holds events will take place during the Joy Getnick of the J CC told zations, bound together by our Enterprises new meaning for LGBTQyoung eight-week exhibition. The Empty Closet, "The JCC commitment to learning from people. The GAGV youth rally Opening night for the exhib­ is honored to host the Unit­ the legacy of the Holocaust, and and dance provide a space for it is May 24, with a talk by ed States Holocaust Memorial to standing up against intoler­ Bronze: (Silence continues page 6) Rabbi David Horowitz, presi- Museum exhibit 'Nazi Perse- ance and injustice in our own times. While the exhibit looks to iliut:&E~ the past, our programming looks NY Finqer Lakes to the future. We look forward to welcoming the community WNY transgender to not only tour the exhibit, but PROFESSIONAL TUTORING SERVICE groups will meet also to attend one of the many here on April 28 thought-provoking exhibit-relat­ E ed programs." - Bausch&lomb By Susan Jordan The programs to follow Perle(li~Yision. E nhancingUfe ~ II Transgender groups from the exhibit opening include a ITT E}:E LI 5 Syracuse and Buffalo will meet panel discussion on "LG BTQ THE POWER OF INGENUI TY here with the Rochester Trans and Religion," on June 14; a Group on April 28. This gath­ reception and screening of "Gen ering is the first time that WNY Silent" (presented by Excellus transgender groups have for­ and sponsored by the Gay Alli­ mally come together to discuss ance) on June 19; a screening Xittelberg er M~~fPIAN issues like passage of GENDA, ~ ...,.. "~. ~: FORtv:lf'AREDiCAL of "Two Spirits" (in partner­ Florlsl&Glt\!'> ··C and to establish friendships and ship with WXXI) on June 21, closer links among WNY trans­ and a closing night celebration L-R: Bess Watts, President, Rochester & Finger Lakes Chapter of gender people. on July 19, with a talk by Alan Pride At Work; Donna Cartwright, National Board Co-President, The gathering will take van Capelle, longtime LGBTQ Pride At Work; Linda Donahue, Cornell University & 2012 True Colors place at the Gay Alliance Youth activist and president and CEO Award Winner; Peggy Shorey, Executive Director of National Pride Center, 875 E. Main St., from (JCC continues page 3) At Work; Ove Overmyer, Pride At Work/CSEA & 2012 True Colors 3-5:30 p.m. Other events for Wagmans Award Winner. Photo: Kristina Pace, PAW Membership Coordinator the groups are also in the works, organized labor movement and but had not been finalized at COMMUNITY Champion: Pride At Work the LGBT community. The Empty Closet press time. SAFETY ALERT honors Donahue, local chapter began operations (Trans continues page 6) Overmyer in the fall of 2007. DANGER IN THE PARKS: The evening featured a clev­ Recently a man was On March 15, the Rochester er Labor Fashion Show called photographed by a male CD & Finger Lakes Chapter of Pride "Workin' It!," written and host­ who blackmailed him and UTlandish demanded money. Vide os. Gifts fi Leathe r At Work, AFL-CIO hosted their ed by Anne Tischer. second True Colors Recognition Linda Donahue, Labor Edu­ Be advised: illegal CORNING Award Dinner at the Diplomat cator for Cornell University's behavior in the parks can ," Banquet Center in Rochester. School of Labor & Industrial result in Blackmail, Violent Attack, Theft or Arrest! j - Canandaigua More than 150 people Relations, a fierce gay rights ally attended the dinner. The mis­ and advocate, and Ove Over­ ~ND"'NDE~~A • ~ktTrus t sion of Pride At Work is to mobi­ myer, Pride At Work member ~ lize mutual support between the (PAW continues page 6) P GALAX~ EMPIRES TATE Contents COLLEGE Equal=Groullds Newsfronts ...... 4 Coilce House & Gili House Michael Hardy, Jessica Sutta Interview: Rev. Jim Mulcahy and Carrie Vernon. goes to UKraine ...... 7 Making The Scene ...... 10 Opinion ...... 12 Over 70 Pride Columnists ...... 22 organizers meet at Community ...... 25 The Church of St . Luke & .. Entertainment: Kate Clinton ..... 27 St. Simon Cyrene V NERP conference Gay Alliance News ...... 30 Friend: By Casey Sullivan Resources ...... ,,' ...... 32 The North East Regional Calendar ...... 34 W&>lbright Pride (NERP) Conference on Classifieds ...... 34 Group ~4 March 10 drew over 70 attend­ 11' ees from 18 North East Prides 'e~ viCTORY t hird !'_l±!.~~ to the Radisson Inn in Roch­ Presbyterian GaXf~m~Da£~ ChurCh ester. The three-day conference included various workshops on Proud Publisher of New York State's Oldest LGBT Publication UPstale Tattoo Co. (NERP continues page 6) 2 THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • NUMBER 455 • APRIL 2012

GAY ALLIANCE OF T J-L-_'=/I ~ L---! ~ ;I

The Empty Closet is published by the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley 875 E. Main Street, Suite 500 Rochester, New York 14605 FROM TH © 2011, All rights reserved. Editor·in·Chief: Susan Jordan Empty C Editor Staff Reporters: Ove Overmyer Graphic Design: Jim Anderson SUSAN JORDAN Staff Photographer: Jim Wilkins Advertising policy: phen Colbert calls the "truthi­ The Empty Closet does not print advertise­ A Message from ments that contain nude drawings or pho­ ness" of the Right. If you are a tographs, nor does it print advertising that fanatical ideologue (or a fanati­ the Board of Directors: states that the person pictured in the ad is for sale, or that you will "get" that particular cal power-seeker), the facts are person if you patronize the establishment irrelevant. Only the True Believ­ The Board of Directors of 2011, the agency began a stra­ advertised. Advertisements that are explicitly ers' version of reality is permit­ the Gay Alliance of the Genesee tegic planning process to move racist, sexist, ageist, ableist or homophobic Valley, Greater Rochester's lesbi­ forward and remain current in its will be refused: advertisements from organi­ ted. Right wing "experts" and zations that are sexist, racist, ageist, ableist politicians are free to make up an, gay, bisexual and transgender response to community needs." or anti-gay will also be refused. All politi­ service organization, announced Susan Cowell stated, ''After cal advertisements must contain information their own "facts" as long as they about who placed them and a method of stick to their politically correct on March 26, 2012 that Susan 35 years of various roles with the contact. Additionally, The Empty Closet does script. (Example: anything Rick Cowell, Executive Director, has Gay Alliance, most recently the not print negative or "attack" advertisements, submitted her resignation from last three as Executive Director, whether they relate to a product or politics "Frothy Mix" Santorum has ever and no matter in whose interest the ad is said about LGBT people.) The the agency. Susan is leaving the my belief has been reinforced being produced. A negative advertisement is defined as one that focuses upon a rival American Family Association GAGV in order to return to that the LGBT community work in electoral politics dur­ continues to need advocates to product, or in the political area, a rival elec­ was still viciously defaming and tion candidate or party, in order to point out lying about Fluke two weeks ing this important election year. influence the political process supposed flaws and to persuade the pub­ The Board has established a on their behalf. I look forward lic not to buy it (or vote for him or her). The after the Limbaugh attack. Empty Closet maintains, within legal bound­ Who put the "Freedom of speech" means Transition Team to initiate a to continuing my support to aries, neutrality regarding products, political broad search for a new Execu­ the organization and the com­ candidates and parties. However, "attack" that Limbaugh, Faux News, San­ "mock" in tive Director to fill this critical munity as I hope to return to ads that fail to provide undisputable evidence torum and anti-gay groups can that the information in the ad is true do not leadership role, while ensuring my roots in electoral politics. It further in any way the objectives and poli­ democracy? lie about gays, women, African that the Gay Alliance contin­ has been an honor to serve the cies of the Gay Alliance or The Empty Closet, Americans, etc., but their targets including the primary tenet that The Empty We can always depend on ues to provide high quality pro­ LGBT community and to work don't have the right to respond. Closet's purpose is to inform the Rochester the Right to put the "mock" in grams and services and meet its with the board, staff, volunteers, gay community and to provide an impartial democracy. People of color, stu­ They do, however, have the right obligations to the community donors and supporters of the forum for ideas. to remain silent - and Sandra dents, elders and anyone who throughout the transition. Gay Alliance." Submissions: might possibly vote against con­ Fluke said on March 5 that both The Board appreciates The Board of Directors and For publication, submit news items, ads, Limbaugh's slurs and "apology" photos, letters, stories, poetry, ads, pho­ servatives will be turned away Susan's service during her ten­ staff of the Gay Alliance thank tographs or art by mail or in person to The from the polls in many states were meant to silence her. ure as Executive Director as Susan for her many years of ser­ Empty Closet office by the 15th of the month. this fall if they don't have the Conservatives spend a lot of Design services for non-camera ready ads well as in her many previous vice and wish her well in all her are available for a fee. (www.emptycloset@ "correct" (expensive) photo LD. time complaining about "politi­ roles. "Under Susan's leadership, future endeavors. gagv.us) The Congressional panel cal correctness." What a shame the GAGV initiated a merger Since 1973, the Gay Alliance Publication Information: set up by Republicans to dis­ that they aren't free to abuse, with Rainbow Sage of the Fin­ has served the Greater Roches­ The Empty Closet is published 11 times a cuss women's reproductive rights stereotype and vilify their "infe­ ger Lakes to better serve LGBT ter! Finger Lakes area, providing year (December and January combined) by riors," like in the Good Old The Empty Closet Press for the Gay Alliance contained no women. They were seniors, educated the commu­ direct program services to LGBT of the Genesee Valley, Inc. Approximately locked out. Including a young Days. The Right doesn't have a nity on marriage equality, and individuals in addition to com­ 5000 copies of each issue are distributed woman who had some infor­ p.c. line of their own, of course! during the first week of the month, some by responded to the important issue munity education, profession­ mail in a plain sealed envelope. The pub­ mation about contraception They just define their ugly prej­ of bullying and its serious conse­ al LGBT competency training, lication of the name or photograph of any and women's health (remember udices as "religious belief" and person or organization in articles is not an quences on LG BT youth," stated community safety/anti-violence indication of the sexual or affectional orien­ women's health?). any disagreement equals "war John Altieri, Board President. "In programming, resource referrals tation of that person or the members of that Sandra Fluke, who has now on Christianity." The Tea Party addition, and despite decreasing and publication of NYS's lon­ organization. For further information, please T aliban clearly wants theocracy write to The Empty Closet, 875 E. Main St., become nationally known, want­ agency support through govern­ gest-running LGBT newspaper, Rochester NY. 14605, call (585) 244-9030 ed to talk about her friend who to replace democracy. ment funding, Susan's efforts led The Empty Closet. or e-mail [email protected]. was unable to get the care she Big Government help for the to increased corporate sponsor­ For more information regard­ The Empty Closet is the official publi­ cation of the Gay Alliance of the Genesee needed for ovarian cysts because poor, the middleclass, the sick ship and private donations to ing this leadership transition at Valley, Inc., as stated in the bylaws of that her employers wouldn't provide and the elderly is "diabolical." offset these financial challenges the Gay alliance, please contact organization. Its purpose is to inform the Rochester gay community about local and contraception coverage, which But Big Government must inter­ and ensure the agency's contin­ John Altieri, Board President at national gay-related news and events: to can be helpful for certain medi­ fere with what women can and ued financial viability. During [email protected] . • provide a forum for ideas and creative work cal conditions, as well as pre­ can't do with their bodies and from the local gay community: to help pro­ mote leadership within the community, and venting pregnancy. Although with whether gay families can to be a part of a national network of lesbian one might think women are as be treated as "real," and must and gay publications that exchange ideas and seek to educate. free to have sex as men, there give corporations environmental Part of our purpose is to maintain a was actually no mention what­ waivers and huge tax breaks. middle position with respect to the entire DJll TIIill [[!] ~'j I: community. We must be careful to present soever in Ms. Fluke's testimony The word "democracy" a all viewpoints in a way that takes into con­ about wanting contraception so comes from Greek demos - "the sideration the views of all - women, men, she can have sex all day and be people." In the world of Super people of color, young and old, and those UNITED lAY: lrnJ from various walks of life. what pill-popping, four-times­ PACs and corporate person­ The opinions of columnists, editorial writ­ married, major Viagra user Rush hood, the Republican Party sup­ ers and other contributing writers are their Limbaugh calls a "slut." (Won­ ports democracy - for 1% of the own and do not necessarily reflect the col­ SEFA NUMBER: ~ lective attitude of the Gay Alliance of the der if his Viagra is covered?) people. The other 99% should Genesee Valley or The Empty Closet. The Half-truths, twisted truths, remember their place and stay in Empty Closet shall not be liable for any loss CFC NUMBER: Q]ID]) or expense that results from the publication un-truths and deliberate lies it, if they know what's good for (whether correctly or incorrectly) or omis­ - they're all part of what Ste- them . • sion of an ad. In the event of non-payment, your account may be assigned to a collec­ tion agency or an attorney, and will be liable for the charges paid by us to such collection agency or attorney. Name Many things ------. Letters to the editor: - 1 The opinions of columnists, editorial writers Address and other contributing writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the collective ~. , .~~ City/State/Zip 1 .' ... . 1 attitude of the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley or The Empty Closet. We will print let­ Phone ters at the editor's discretion and on a space 1 - 1 available basis. Only one letter by the same E-mail writer in a six-month period is allowed. We Library8f will not print personal attacks on individuals, 1 Membership levels: 1 IArchives nor will we be a forum for ongoing disputes Sage 0$30-99 Advocate 0 $100-999 Champion between individuals. We reserve the right 1 0$1,000-4,999 Triangle Club 0 $5,000+ Stonewall to edit for space and clarity. We will print S&[?~ 1 anonymous letters if the name and phone o Enclosed is my check in the amount of (check # ___l number are provided to the Editor: confi­ CAM PUSOUT dentiality will be respected. Submissions are 'ZONE Please charge my credit card in the amount of: ____ 1 1 due by the 15th of the month at: The Empty To: 0 American Express, 0 Discover, 0 MasterCard, 0 Visa Closet, 875 E. Main Street, Suite 500, Roch­ THE EMPTY CLOSET · YOUTH PROGRAM · ROCHESTER PRIDE Credit card # Exp. Date: ___ ester, NY 14605: e-mail: emptycloset@gagv. 1 EDUCATION PROGRAM & SPEAKERS BUREAU 1 us. Online edition of EC available at www. I would be proud to have my donation publicly acknowledged. COMMUNITY SAFETY PROGRAM & ANTI-VIOLENCE PROJECT o gayalliance.org. INQUEERY • CAMPUSOUT • LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES 1 GAY ALLIANCE RESOURCE DIRECTORY Benefits include: a subscription to The Empty Closet mailed to home or work, 1 SHOULDERS TO STAND ON • RAINBOW SAGE · SAFEZONE plus privileges at each level. Phone: 585 244-8640 or Mail to: Gay Alliance, 875 E. Main Street, Suite 500, Rochester, New York 14605. Home delivery of I 1 The Gay Alliance plays a central role in advocating for 'AI' The Empty Closet is free with your annual membership in the Gay Alliance. 4/121 the fair and equal treatment of all people, regardless of their V sexual orientation, gender identity or gender .expression. Gav Alliance 1 www.GayAlllance.org 'J of the genesee va ll ey • ------to Many people APRIL 2012 • NUMBER 455 • GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • THE EMPTY CLOSET 3

described "spiritual evolution" to becom­ J ames Goff, and Kathy Madigan and her ing a GLBT-affirming minister was one partner Julie Carter. They encompassed he played out in the public eye, much to stories of compassionate family members, s the benefit of others who have wrestled church allies, and home-comings, as well with GLBT acceptance and how it fits as love stories and the heroic battle to find into their beliefs. comfort both in one's own self and loved LOCAL AND STATE "Our decision to honor Pastor Jay Bak­ ones. ker this year was a simple one," said Jody The theme of allies and activism col­ Huckaby, Executive Director of PFLAG ored each story, from Lore McSpadden, National. "We've seen faith communi­ whose talk was summed up in her say­ ties all over the country taking up this ing "Being an ally is an action," through dialogue about what it means to support Kathy Madigan who felt that she and her GLBT people, to welcome them, include partner demonstrated, early in the move­ them, and uplift them. In the Christian ment, to a number of people in their community, Pastor Bakker is a leader in circles who have since become allies, that these discussions, and we are proud to "you could be both gay and a good per- recognize the incredible work he has been son. " doing - around the country and around Rounding out the evening was the the world - to move equality forward in story of Jamie and Sally Whitbeck, a communities of faith." pair of allies-turned-advocates who found "It's an honor to be awarded for the themselves seeking justice and civil rights work I love," said Rev. Jay Bakker. for friends and strangers alike and who, To learn more about the 2011 Straight through twists and turns, helped form for Equality Awards Gala, visit www. and influence what has become the Ima­ pflag.org/2012gala. Other honorees this geOut film festival. In a fascinating tale year include Entertainment honorees told jointly, they wove in aspects of their Audra McDonald and Will Swenson, and personal stories with those of LGBT peo­ Workplace honoree KPMG LLP. ple they had met along the way. a: The evening had a number of touches w -/PRNewswire-USNewswirel >- from many years ago, with stories of the ~ "before" times, as well as current issues of ~ Pride is just around the today, and touched on many similarities ~ corner: July 6·15 felt across the LGBT community through the generations. As in the past, the Rain­ J:~ Rochester Pride is produced by the a. bow SAGE event brought those genera­ Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley and tions together. • EQUALITY & JUSTICE DAY: The Empire State Pride Agenda's Equality & Justice Day is the agency's largest fundraising event. takes place on May 8. It is the largest statewide gathering of LGBT activists and will feature a rally at the Capital building, caucuses, workshops, lobbying visits with legis­ The proceeds support the programs of the lators, etc. The main theme this year is passage of GENOA! See www.prideagenda.org. Gay Alliance - Youth, Community Safe­ PAGE ONE ty, Rainbow SAGE, Education and Out­ reach, The Empty Closet and the Library ColorFEST returns to used to leverage increased giving during & Archives. This year the theme is "Pride (JCC from page 1) NTID April 6·8 one of the most challenging years in our Power: Superheroes." history," said Patricia Davis, Director of Everything you need to know to par­ of the Progressive Jewish Alliance and National Technical Institute of the Community Investment United Way of ticipate in all the events and get involved Jewish Funds for Justice. For a com­ Deaf (NTID) at Rochester Institute of Greater Rochester, Inc. with Rochester Pride can be found at plete listing of programs and events, visit Technology (RIT) will host the fifth "Our thanks to our Board Chair, www.rochesterpride.com. The website is jccrochester.org. More detailed program annual Deaf LGBT college students con­ Dave Fiedler and the entire ESL team for updated as events are confirmed. You can information will follow in the May Empty ference, better known as ColorFEST this unprecedented gift that will mean also sign up to volunteer, register to be a Closet. Background 2012, on April 6-8. so much to the thousands of people it vendor and be in the parade, and become Spearheading the event are Stephen will help. The grant will match new or a sponsor! "Virulent" is an appropriate word to Wille and Darci Zook, both attending increased United Way gifts from local Confirmed events include (more are describe the Nazi hatred of the "unwanted RIT. companies and leadership-level donors still in process): Flag Raising at City Hall social groups" whom they dehumanized as "bacteria" or "a virus." These groups In 2008, Kriston Pumphrey had a throughout 2012. - July 6, 4 - 5 p.m.; Super Sassy in the vision of reaching out to Deaf LG BT col­ "The Bridge to the Future Chal­ Southwedge - July 6, immediately follow­ included Jews, Roma ("gypsies"), Poles lege students in an effort to transform lenge Grant joins the Constellation ing flag raising, 5 p.m. - till; Youth Pride and other Slavs, the disabled, Jehovah's Witnesses, German socialists and union students into leaders of tomorrow, which Brands Community Fund Challenge that Dance - July 9, youth ages 13 to 23; Kick organizers, and Soviet prisoners of war. led to the inception of ColorFEST, an matches any new and increased individual Off Party to Pride Weekend - July 13, 7 "Non-Aryans" would supposedly "infect" annual event alternately hosted by Gallau­ gifts to United Way's ommunity Fund, to 10 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Airport: the ''Aryan race" with their "inferior" and det University and NTID and designed up to $100,000. Pride Parade - July 14, 3:30 to 5 p.m. on "contagious" genes. to provide Deaf LGBT college students "This will greatly help us to achieve Park Ave. and Goodman St.; Pride Festi­ Homosexuals were also seen as an with opportunities to flourish, network, our recently announced $25.5 million val- July 14, 5 to 9:30 p.m. at the Audi­ "infection" that could become an "epi­ and learn beneficial skills within a col­ goal for the 2012 campaign. We hope torium Parking Lot on College Ave.; Pride demic," weakening the macho Aryan lege setting. you'll help us spread the word and encou­ Picnic - July 15, 1 to 7 p.m. at Genesee male and endangering Germany's sup­ An estimated 250 Deaf LGBT mem­ rage your friends, family and colleagues Valley Park. posed destiny to conquer the world. The bers, including but not limited to indi­ to help us make change throughout our For questions and comments, please Nazis did not seek to eradicate all gay peo­ viduals from Gallaudet University in community." feel free to email us at pride@gayalliance. ple, as they sought to do with their geno­ Washington, DC and regions across the When giving this year, please remem­ org. Like Us on Facebook: Rochester cide of Europe's Jews, but they sought first nation, are expected to participate in this ber: the Gay Alliance's United Way desi­ Pride (NY). More on page 30. to "correct" homosexuality and then to exciting national event April 6-8. The gnation number is 1135. The GAGV's theme for this year is "Celebrate." SEFA (NY State Employees Federated isolate the "contagion." SAGE Intergenerational The pseudo-science of eugenics, or ColorFEST will include an opening Appeal) number is 03-7556. The GAGV's the study of improving human heredity ceremony, a gallery filled with artwork CFC (Combined Federal Appeal) number Panel talks about allies through selective breeding, provided the by students, educational workshops, an is 93910. By Lora C. Thody Nazis with "scientific" grounds for the evening social, performing arts and much Sunday, March 18, marked the ninth racial, political and religious biases that more. Hearing and straight allies are wel­ PFLAG honors Pastor year of the Intergenerational Panel event, Germans and other Europeans had held come to attend the ColorFEST 2012. an event sponsored by Rainbow SAGE for centuries. The Nazis capitalized on Further information regarding the Jay Bakker as ally and the Gay Alliance Youth Group. these ancient hatreds first to get elected event registration, volunteer opportunities PFLAG National will honor Pastor Jay This year's event was held at the and then to persuade the public to accept or sponsorship can be found at the link: Bakker with the inaugural Straight for First Universalist Church and was themed the intolerance and brutality of what http:// www.rit.edu/spectrum. Equality in Faith Award, to be presented "The Importance of Allies in our LGBT quickly became a fascist dictatorship - the The ColorFEST 2012 Committee and at the Fourth Annual Straight for Equal­ Lives." The event was attended by some "Thousand-Year Reich." the entire LG BT community at Rochester ity Awards Gala on Monday, April 2 at the 30 people, covering all generations. First passed in 187l, Germany's crimi­ Institute of Technology extend an open, Marriott Marquis Times Square, NYC. The MC this year, Susan Macaluso, nallaw Paragraph 175 declared "unnatural warm invitation to the Rochester commu­ Straight for Equality, a national out­ welcomed the crowd. A member of the indecency" between men to be punishable nity to join in the celebration of the fifth reach and education project created by Speakers Bureau, Susan came to GAGV by imprisonment for up to two years. Les­ anniversary of ColorFEST. PFLAG National, invites, educates and to try to find a voice for herself as an advo­ bianism was not mentioned. In the 1920s engages straight allies to advocate for and cate and ally. Susan's activism in support Weimar Republic, homosexuals began to ESL establishes United support gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans­ of LGBT issues was the story of someone become more visible and organized, and Way challenge grant gender people. truly committed to making a difference. gay civil rights increasingly found support Jay Bakker has been an outspoken Her story of her family's history with gay from liberals and socialists. The right saw To honor the contributions of those straight ally for a number of years, tak­ issues and of her continuing search for homosexuality as an "epidemic" which who have come before, and inspire ing a very public stand on issues such as ways in which she could advocate for oth­ would "destroy society," and Nazi poli­ Rochester's emerging leaders to follow the importance of providing welcoming ers was just the beginning of an excellent ticians began claiming that "such vices in their footsteps, ESL Federal Credit communities of faith for LGBT people, program. will lead to the downfall of the German Union's Charitable Foundation is esta­ and marriage equality. In his book, Fall to What followed were stories of lives nation." Homophobic hatred combined blishing a $500,000 Bridge to the Future Grace: A Revolution of God, Self and Soci­ highly influenced by straight allies, sto­ with anti-Semitism when Dr. Magnus Challenge Grant. ety, Bakker talks about his own family's ries of the importance of allies in times of Hirschfeld argued that homosexuality was "This contribution, the largest corpo­ "fall from grace," and how it colored his great stress and stories of allies who went "neither an illness nor a crime." He was rate philanthropic gift that ESL's Chari­ personal understanding of the need for beyond and became true advocates. These attacked by Nazi media as a homosexual table Foundation has ever made, will be God to be available to all people. His self- were the stories of Lore McSpadden, (JCC continues on page 6) 4 THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • NUMBER 455 • APRIL 2012

on the panel contended that existing anti­ Jodi Quintero. "We would like to see this bullying laws are sufficient. citizen initiative succeed." Rep. Ben Waide, R-Madisonville, said The action by the House avoids a pub­ s House Bill 336 was an attempt "to achieve lic hearing and a recorded vote by law­ equality by making some people more makers. In 2009, the Legislature, which equal than others." He said the measure was then controlled by Democrats, held was not about bullying, but "about gay a daylong hearing at the Augusta Civic NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL rights in our schools." Center where hundreds of people testified "Not even sobbing pleas from the on both sides of the issue. parents of dead children can move these A recent poll from PPP shows that monsters," commented JoeMyGod.com. Maine voters are likely to approve it: Catholic Church trying to a priest who's willing to conduct the cer­ "It looks like Maine voters will reverse emony. March poll shows their 2009 decision and legalize gay mar­ silence victims group? "It will always be up to the individual riage in the state this fall. 54 percent As part of their defense for priests priest as to whether he or she is prepared marriage gaining think that gay marriage should be legal, accused of child molestation, lawyers for to bless gay couples but this legislation support nationwide compared to only 41 percent who think provides homosexuals with the same it should be illegal. And when we asked the Catholic Church have subpoenaed NBC News/Wall Street Journal on rights as heterosexuals," said the PM. about the issue using the exact language SNAP, the Survivors Network of those March 5 released a national survey on Abused by Priests, demanding to see more voters will see on the ballot this fall, they marriage equality that reflects the ongo­ say they're inclined to support the referen­ than 20 years of their em ails even though Four arrested in brutal ing change in public opinion on the they are not party to either side in the dum by a 47-32 margin. issue -- across a number of demograph­ "There's some indication that the lawsuits. attack on Chilean man ics, including party affiliation, age, and exact ballot language is confusing people A judge in Kansas City ruled that the Four suspects in the brutal attack on ethnicity. a little at this point. Only 67 percent of network must comply because it "almost a Chilean gay man, Daniel Zamudio, "Today's poll is yet another sign of those who support gay marriage in gen­ certainly" had information relevant to the have been arrested, Chilean news outlets where the country is moving -- and mov­ eral say they'll vote yes while 12 percent case. The network and its allies say the are reporting. Zamudio, 24, was burned, ing at lightning speed," said Human say they'll not and 21 percent are not sure. legal action is part of a campaign by the had his ear sliced, and was branded with Rights Campaign President Joe Solmo­ At the same time just 60 percent of those church to cripple an organization that has a swastika by his attackers. He was in a nese. "We've seen significant jumps in a who oppose gay marriage generally say been the most visible defender of victims, coma for days. number of respected polls over the past they'll vote against the proposed referen­ and a relentless adversary, for more than Writes Michael Lavers at EDGE: few years, confirming it's a question of dum, while 24 percent say they'll vote for two decades. Prosecutors maintain that RaUl Alfon­ when, not if, we achieve full marriage it and 16 percent are not sure. My guess "If there is one group that the high­ so L6pez Fuentes, 25, Alejandro Axel equality." is at the end of the day voters will see this er-ups, the bishops, would like to see Angulo Tapia, 26, Patricio Ivan Ahumada The NBC/WSJ survey showed mar­ as a straight referendum on gay marriage silenced," said Marci A. Hamilton, a law Garay, 25, and Fabian Alexis Mora Mora, riage equality has strong majority back­ regardless of what the language on the professor at Yeshiva University and an 19, brutally attacked Daniel Zamudio, 24, ing among Democrats (up 12 points from ballot says and the 54/41 number bodes advocate for victims of clergy sex crimes, in Parque San Borja on March 6. The sus­ 2009) and a plurality of Independents well for pro-equality voters. "it definitely would be SNAP. And that's pects allegedly struck Zamudio with bot­ (up 9 points). There was a large increase "Republicans' opinions are pretty what they're going after. They're trying to tles, rocks and other blunt objects before in support among African Americans - much the same as they were in 2009. But find a way to silence SNAP." they cut off part of his ear, carved swasti­ 32 percent favored in 2009 to 50 percent Democrats' support for gay marriage has kas into his chest and burned other parts now. And a majority in both the 18-34 increased slightly, from 71 percent to 78 Denmark may legalize of his body with cigarettes. and 50-64 age brackets favor marriage for percent. And more importantly indepen­ marriage equality by El Movimiento de Integraci6n y Lib­ gay and lesbian couples. dents have gone from voting against gay eraci6n Homosexual (Movilh) and vari­ Overall, 49 percent of Americans sup­ marriage 52/46 three years ago to now June, PM says ous Chilean newspapers have reported port committed, loving gay and lesbian supporting it by a 57/36 margin." couples getting married, according to the News broke March 13 in Denmark that L6pez, Angulo, Ahumada and Mora Read more: http://www.towleroad. called themselves "nazis del Centro" or poll, with 40 percent opposed. In 2009, that the Prime Minister has promised the coml#ixzz1 p18QoeFV support for marriage equality was at only legalization of same-sex marriage by June. "the Downtown Nazis." 41 percent, with 49 percent opposed. An early blog report surfaced on Movilh spokesperson Rolando Jime­ Priest denies lesbian nez told El Mercurio after police arrested Other recent national polls, including J oeMyGod.com: from CNN, Gallup and AP, register communion at mother's The Danish Government is ready with the four suspects that they confessed to majority support for the issue. the Law Proposal, which will take effect the crime. "We are happy," said Jimenez. funeral; placed on leave "When the authorities told me (about The poll was conducted February in June 2012. "It is an important step for 29-March 3, 2012, of 800 adults, includ­ The Archdiocese of Washington has our society, which recognizes the indi­ the arrests) I immediately called Daniel's family." ing 200 cell phone-only respondents placed Father Marcel Guarnizo on admin­ vidual's differences and the individual's which included GOP primary voters. istrative leave over his actions toward Bar­ equality within the society, regardless of Zamudio has reportedly regained con­ sciousness, according to Movilh. bara Johnson, a lesbian who says she was who you are, and regardless of who you "humiliated" at the funeral of her mother, Read more: http://www.towleroad. love," says PM Thorning-Schmidt. She Marriage citizen the reports. com/2012/03/four-arrested-in-brutal­ Washington Blade calls the Law Proposal a completely natu­ Guarnizo refused to give Johnson com­ beating-branding-of-gay-chilean-man. initiative goes to Maine ral and right step in modern Denmark. munion because she lives with a woman. html#ixzz10vcYp1tr voters in November In 1989 Denmark was the world's first During Johnson's eulogy, Guarnizo nation to offer federal domestic partner­ A citizen initiative to legalize same­ reportedly walked out, and refused to ship recognition. Ky. Republicans say gay sex marriage in Maine is headed for the accompany the casket to the burial. UPDATE: A more formal announce­ kids should be bullied November ballot, the Kennebec Journal The Blade says Bishop Barry C. ment was soon forthcoming from the reports. Knestout, chief of staff to Cardinal Don­ Danish press. Republicans in the Kentucky House The Maine House of Representatives ald Wuerl, told all of the Archdiocese's Gay couples can look forward to a Education Committee on March 13 unanimously voted on March 13 to indef­ priests that Guarnizo was under investiga­ church wedding this summer. At her squashed an anti-bullying bill because it initely postpone the bill, which has the tion for "intimidating behavior": weekly press conference (March 13), is "about gay rights" and would help pre­ effect of sending it directly to voters. ... "1 write to inform you that effective Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt vent gay children from killing themselves. House Speaker Robert Nutting, R-Oak­ today, Father Marcel Guarnizo's assign­ said the government is putting the finish­ The vote came after parents and land, recognized Minority Leader Emily ment at St. John Neumann Parish is ing touches to a bill that will come into friends of teenagers who killed themselves Cain, D-Orono, to make the motion. withdrawn and he has been placed on force on June 15, allowing gay men and to end incessant school bullying told law­ Cain is a supporter of marriage equality. administrative leave with his priestly fac­ lesbians to walk down the aisle in the makers about the need for stronger protec­ "We just think this should be decided ulties removed until such time as an church of their choice, if they can find tions for all students. Several lawmakers by the voters," said Cain's spokeswoman inquiry into his actions at the parish is

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~ • RECOVERY ISSUES w ~ . DEPRESSIONIANXIETY/SELF-CONCEPT [email protected] APRIL 2012 • NUMBER 455 • GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • THE EMPTY CLOSET 5 completed," Bishop Knestout said in his four times as likely as Muslims; and 14 the federal government as their primary whose theories on sexual orientation are March 9 letter. times as likely as Latinos. Despite this enemy. These groups saw their numbers so bizarre that he actually believes Bozo "This action was taken after I received hate-inspired violence, anti-gay groups skyrocket for the third straight year in the Clown can turn people gay. credible allegations that Father Guarni­ continue to employ virulent rhetoric that 2011, this time by 55 percent -- from 824 NARTH has become the primary zo has engaged in intimidating behav­ demonizes gay men and lesbians, some of in 2010 to 1,274 groups last year. In 2008, source for the faulty research and sci­ ior toward parish staff and others that is it based on NARTH's research. just before the Patriot movement took off, entific distortions used by the religious incompatible with proper priestly minis­ This strategy of using science, however there were 149 Patriot groups, a number right to justify their continued opposition try," he said in the letter. "Given the grave flawed, to fortify their religious condem­ that metastasized to 512 in 2009. to LG BT equality at a time when public nature of these allegations, and in light of nation of homosexuality was articulated In all, Patriot groups have increased by opinion is swinging dramatically in the the confusion in the parish and the con­ five years ago by the Family Research 755 percent during the first three years of other direction. TWO's Besen told the cerns expressed by parishioners, Father Institute's Paul Cameron, a psychologist the Obama administration. Their number SPLC's Ryan Lenz, "There's no other play Guarnizo is prohibited from exercising whose research has been thoroughly dis­ has now surpassed -- by more than 400 in the playbook except going back to the any priestly ministry in the Archdiocese credited by mainstream scientists. "We groups -- the previous all-time high set in fire and brimstone." of Washington until all matters can be can no longer rely - as almost all pro­ 1996, when the first wave of the militia The inclusion of Bradlee Dean's You appropriately resolved, with the hope that family organizations do today - on movement peaked shortly after the Okla­ Can Run, But You Cannot Hide Inter­ he might return to priestly ministry." gleaning scientific 'bits' from those in homa City bombing that left 168 people national as an anti-LGBT hate group is Read more: http://www.towleroad. liberal academia. ... [WJe must subvert dead. notable because of the close ties between com/#ixzz1 ovbt5 8mA the academy by doing original, honest The hate groups listed in this report Dean, his organization, and Minneso­ From joemygod.com: research ourselves," Cameron wrote. include neo-Nazis, white nationalists, neo­ ta congresswoman Michele Bachmann. The archdiocese on March 11 con­ JoeMyGod.com commented, "Origi­ Confederates, racist skinheads, Klansmen Before Dean dumped the notoriously firmed Guarnizo's removal, and noted nal, maybe. But honest? NARTH's many and black separatists. Other hate groups anti-gay former presidential candidate for that Knestout's letter was read at all Mass­ critics argue otherwise." on the list target LGBT people, Mus­ allegedly "going to the left," she famously es this weekend at St. John Neumann. lims or immigrants, and some specialize prayed for Dean's traveling youth ministry Barbara Johnson claims that when in producing racist music or propaganda to "multiply ten-fold," helped the group she approached the altar, Rev. Guarnizo SPLC: Hate groups, denying the Holocaust. raise funds, and made a guest appearance covered the bread and said, "Because you militias are on the rise Read more: http://www.towleroad. on Dean's television show. Both Dean and live with a woman, and in the eyes of the com/#ixzz1 0 Ydiu23w Bachmann -- whose husband's Christian The Southern Poverty Law Center church, that is a sin." The Archdiocese has Truth Wins Out statement counseling clinic was busted for offering issued a report in March showing that issued Johnson an apology. Truth Wins Out applauded the South­ "pray away the gay" therapy last year by extremist groups are at record levels. The ern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) on March a Truth Wins Out hidden-camera inves­ report also adds 11 groups to the orga­ 8 for releasing the expanded list of anti­ tigation -- are outspoken supporters of a SPLC calls out NARTH nization's list of designated anti-gay hate gay hate groups. proposed amendment that would write for "anti-gay junk groups. "We commend the Southern Poverty marriage discrimination into the Minne­ science" and lies Those groups are United Families Law Center for so vigilantly monitor­ sota state constitution. International, Save California, Sons of ing anti-LGBT hate in America," said "Minnesotans should take special note The Southern Poverty Law Center has Thundr (Faith Baptist Church), You Can TWO Executive Director Wayne Besen. of the SPLC's newly-expanded list," said issued an in-depth examination of the Run, But You Cannot Hide, Parents "Truth Wins Out also congratulates the John Becker, TWO's Director of Com­ National Association for Research and Action League, Jewish Political Action 11 extremist organizations newly added to munications and Development, who went Therapy of Homosexuality (NARTH), Committee, Mission: America, Windsor the list of officially-certified hate groups, undercover at Bachmann & Associates which the SPLC calls "the main source for Hills Baptist Church, True Light Pente­ because we know all too well how hard last year. "Virulently anti-LGBT extrem­ anti-gay junk science." cost Church, Tom Brown Ministries, and each of them has worked to earn this ist groups like the one led by Bradlee An excerpt: Public Advocate of the United States. dubious designation." Dean will never be satisfied with simply The LGBT community is overwhelm­ The SPLC report details the growth of The latest edition of the SPLC's Intel­ excluding loving same-sex couples from ingly the group most targeted in violent hate groups to a record 1,018 in 2011, up ligence Report also contains an author­ marriage. These hate groups won't stop hate crimes, according to an Intelligence from 1,002 the year before and the latest itative article detailing the hate and until LG BT people are beaten back into Report analysis of 14 years of federal hate in a series of increases going back more misinformation coming from the Nation­ second-class status in every aspect of soci­ crime data. Gay men, lesbians, bisexu­ than a decade. But the dramatic growth al Association for Research and Therapy ety." als and transgender people are more than came in the Patriot movement, which is of Homosexuality (NARTH), an "ex-gay" So-called "ex-gay" organizations have twice as likely to be attacked in a violent composed of armed militias and other junk science group. This group is head­ been at the forefront of the push for mar­ hate crime as Jews or blacks; more than conspiracy-minded organizations that see ed by radical extremist Joseph Nicolosi, (Hate continues page 11)

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(JCC continued from page 3) in "cannon-fodder" penalty battalions, (Silence continued from page 1) public relations. She learned how to speak and also as a Jew. which were used in suicide missions. students to come together, speak out for in a way to attract people not readily asso­ As the new Nazi regime consolidated Once the war had begun, gay men what they believe in, and celebrate their ciated with the LGBT community, and power, they closed gay bars and clubs, who were believed to have "seduced more strength and identities. Ten years ago, the how to get our stories published in the unleashed anti-gay propaganda linking than one partner" were sent to concentra­ Day of Silence may have brought energy mainstream press. Rhode Island Pride is homosexuality to treason, and rewrote tion camps upon their release from prison. to students' struggles to establish Gay­ holding its 36th annual pride festival and criminal law Paragraph 175, which gradu­ They were then subjected to "extermina­ Straight Alliance Clubs in their schools. parade this year. ally through court interpretation expand­ tion through work" - assigned to hard This year, the Day of Silence may be a With the attendance almost equal ed the definition of "indecencies between labor in dangerous conditions, often celebration of New York's equal marriage to last year's conference in Pittsburgh, men" to include any interaction that with fatal consequences (if the prisoners law, or the continued struggle of transgen­ Michael Hardy deemed the gathering could be deemed to have sexual content. didn't die from starvation or the diseases der students to find safety and support in a success. A highlight was the round Enforcement came under the control of that swept the camps). After 1942, camp their school communities." • table discussions or "Triages," as they the Gestapo. "Enemies of the state" could inmates were often castrated to suppress allowed people to easily exchange ideas. be seized and detained in prison, and later their "degenerate sex drive." Some were He believes they will be a feature of con­ in concentration camps, without legal used in deadly medical experiments to (PAW from page 1) ferences in the future. recourse. "correct" homosexuality. Harry Bronson emphasized that, as Lesbians were not systematically per­ The exhibit from the U.S. Holo­ and staff reporter for The Empty Closet, the New York State LGBT community, secuted by the Nazis, since women's lim­ caust Memorial Museum includes police received the 2012 True Colors Award we cannot let up on our efforts for equal­ ited social role under patriarchal Nazism file photos of the 100,000 men arrested for their outstanding commitment to the ity and must continue to work hard so meant that lesbians had less "corrupting on violations of Paragraph 175 (around advancement of workplace democracy. • that "we can have nondiscrimination for influence" than the more powerful males. 50,000 were convicted) and Gestapo sur­ our transgender folks and sexual identity But lesbians could be sent to concentra­ veillance photos of gay bars, of book­ and sexual expression." tion camps as "antisocial" because they burnings, and of the ransacking of Dr. (NERP from page 1) The continuing efforts of NERP and were refusing women's only role in Nazi Hirschfeld's Institute for Social Science, how to increase the recognition and effec­ its parent organization InterPride are society - producing Aryan children. The Berlin's most visible symbol of the homo­ tiveness of regional Prides. There was also essential for sharing and communicating national police registry for sexual mat­ sexual rights movement. Another hideous a community dinner, show and dance (see ideas among Pride organizers, so they can ters that hindered ropulation growth was relic is a poster showing the badges that page 10). get the LBGT movement's message across the "Reich Centra Office for Combating camp inmates were forced to wear, includ­ The keynote speaker, NYS Assembly­ in new and innovative ways . • Homosexuality and Abortion." ing the infamous pink triangle. man Harry Bronson, reminded attendees Some gay men were put to forced "The Gay Alliance is pleased to be about the importance of Pride organiz­ labor, or drafted into the army. Soldiers one of the community partners working ers discussing their ideas openly. Bronson (Trans continued from page 1) convicted of "indecency" were sentenced with the Rochester J CC to present this emphasized that the LGBT community exhibit and related programming," said Patti Jones, from Buffalo's Spectrum to prison, and then usually forced to needs to educate heterosexual society "to Education and Outreach Director Scott Transgender Support of WNY, told The return to the military. An alternative to not only be respectful of us but also to Fearing . • Empty Closet, "My understanding of prison and abuse by guards was service grow to love us as a community, as we love this meeting of the Transgender sup­ them as part of the larger community." port groups is that the Gay Alliance, in Organizer Michael Hardy told The conjunction with the Rochester Trans Empty Closet that he chose Assemblyman Group, has graciously offered to hold and Last gay Holocaust survivor Bronson as the keynote speaker because passed in 2011 at 98 "His depiction of the triumphs, tribula­ coordinate a meeting with other trans­ tions and timeline on both the no and gender support groups in the surround­ Rudolf Brazda, believed to be the yes votes on equality of marriage was a ing area, including Buffalo and Syracuse, last known gay survivor of the Holo- timely and informative presentation, as on April 28, in an effort to network and caust, died last summer at the age of most people in the room were from states exchange ideas. 98 in Germany. which are going through their own battles "I think bringing people together Brazda was sent to the Nazis' and trial now." from the various groups is a wonder­ Buchenwald concentration camp in Jennifer Stevens, 31, attended the con­ ful idea. It will help strengthen our August 1942 and held there until ference representing Rhode Island Pride. community and provide much needed its liberation by U.S. forces in 1945. She admitted to not having much expe­ support. My hope is that this meeting Nazi Germany declared homosexual­ rience with PR, but after attending the will foster new working connections and ity an aberration that threatened the PR 201 workshop, she left feeling much friendships between the groups. We are German race, and convicted some more confident. She discussed some of all doing similar work, providing sup­ 50,000 homosexuals as criminals. the issues that Rhode Island Pride is fac­ port as well as raising awareness and An estimated 10,000 to 15,000 ing, such as being a smaller Pride located understanding of transgender issues, so gay men were deported to concen­ between New York and Boston. However, why not compare notes, supporting each tration camps, where few survived. she found many small Prides that she other, when we can. The meeting will When a memorial to the Nazis' gay did not know existed and learned a lot also come at a very opportune time to victims was unveiled in Berlin in through them. rally our community for Transgender 2008, the LSVD said the last ex­ "The networking is really great; you Equality & Justice Day in Albany on prisoner that it knew of had died learn as much from sitting next to some­ May 8, when we will lobby our legisla­ three years earlier. But the group said body at lunch as from being in a work­ tors to support Transgender civil rights it was then contacted by Brazda, who shop. A lot of great people are here from a and pass GENDA. visited the memorial at its invitation lot of great organizations," she said. "I have sent out some emails to the and became an honorary member. Never having attended a NERP con­ Transgeneration Group and the Buffalo Brazda was born in 1913. He ference before, she wasn't sure what to Belles, in an effort to get others on board grew up in the eastern German town expect, but she was very pleased with and hopefully willing to make the trip of Meuselwitz and repeatedly ran everybody's openness at communicating and attend. into trouble with Nazi authorities and sharing ideas. "We're not competing, ''I'm very excited about this meeting over his homosexuality before being you know, I think everybody here feels and I'm looking forward to attending, sent to Buchenwald. like we're part of this one movement to socializing, making some new friends, In 2011 Brazda was named make sure the gay community is visible, is doing a little networking and perhaps a knight in France's Legion of equal and so I'm enjoying it." having a little fun out on the town after­ Honor. • Kate Monteiro, 48, also represent­ wards." ing Rhode Island Pride, said her favorite For more information, see www.gay­ workshops were on communication and alliance.org . •

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They have no ahead of them to guide them. The movement there is 25 years behind us. Things we take for granted, like Pride Parades, they can't imagine - although they do see what happens in Western Europe and they want it for themselves. "The current president of Ukraine wants to link the country more closely with Rus­ sia than with Europe. A Ukrai­ nian group calls itself 'We Are Europeans' and they demon­ strate in front of Parliament. But when bills are debated, they are not allowed to testify - although anti-gay religious groups are allowed. Because there is a Ukrainian law on The IDAHO flash mob in Kiev. freedom of conscience and reli­ gion, gay activist groups are becoming popular among Eastern Euro­ pIe from all religious backgrounds, and able to be legally recognized by pean gay activists. "I was in Kiev for the depending on what part of the world the government. There are 33 International Day Against Homopho­ you are in, your religious traditions and Reverend Jim Mulcahy gay groups in Ukraine already, and each bia (IDAHO)," he said, "and we gathered, forms of worship will be influenced by year there are more. The leaders have an about 300 people, at a monument called the the local traditions you grew up with. By Susan Jordan annual secret conference." Rainbow Arch. After the signal was given, "So in Ukraine, if we have a group of gay The Reverend Jim Mulcahy is retir­ By contrast, gay activists in Russia there were brief speeches and balloons were people, they come from many traditions, ing as pastor of Open Arms Metropolitan have been silenced entirely in some areas. released with anti-homophobia messages. but there will be an Orthodox 'feel' to Community Church, Rochester's branch The city of St. Petersburg in Russia has After about seven minutes, the crowd dis­ it. So I'm not joining the equivalent of a of the worldwide LGBT denomination, passed legislation banning any form of persed before the police could arrive. diocese." this month, after nine years as Senior "promotion of homosexuality," including "There was no media coverage because Next month Rev. Mulcahy will attend Pastor. His next steps in life will gradu­ parades, marches, publications, etc. Rev. to alert the media is to alert the police. the Kiev Pride Celebration and then a ally bring him to a new home in Kiev, Mulcahy notes that the governor of St. But several people took iPhone photos Rainbow Pride Festival in a city called Ukraine, as he dedicates himself to help­ Petersburg province was under extreme and sent them to the media, which ran Nikolaev. He said, "I was there last year ing LGBT people in a country where just pressure to refuse to sign the bill. AllOut. the footage. Of course the comment was and officiated at several same sex wed­ attending a Pride Parade can result in seri­ org delivered a petition of 300,000 signa­ negative, but at least people saw it. Flash dings. I have a Lutheran Norwegian priest ous injury. tures gathered worldwide in a very short mobs are a way to do what you ordinar­ who would come from Oslo to help me if Rev. Mulcahy was health care chap­ period of time, urging the governor not to ily can't do." needed. Some Norwegian and German lain at Park Ridge for seven years before sign. But he did. On March 20, Rev. Mulcahy was for­ theologians (two male and two female) are becoming hospice chaplain for the Vis­ In May 2011, Rev. Mulcahy addressed mally received as an Orthodox priest "by coming to the school to teach this sum­ iting Nurse Service for 17 years. When the Ukrainian gay group leaders at their a bishop I can't name" here in the U.S. mer. It's very low profile - it will have a he retired he agreed to become pastor at conference. He said, "I talked to them "Because I was once a Jesuit, I can sim­ name like 'Financial Workshop' or some­ Open Arms for one year. about the hate message that comes from ply be received into the Orthodox church, thing else innocuous. In 2004 he became Senior Pastor and certain religious groups. They had never rather than having to be ordained. I had "The worst that could happen to us now, 19 years after that "one year" assign­ experienced a religious figure saying to work with an Orthodox priest to learn would be to be deported and forbidden to ment, he has retired - but he is not plan­ 'Don't let anyone make you feel bad the liturgy, which can be done in English. return to Ukraine." ning a quiet life of puttering about as about yourself.' It's no big deal to us, but The people I'll be working with will speak Rev. Mulcahy receives no salary for a retired person. He said, "I thought I it brought tears there. Ukrainian or Russian and I'll be speak­ this work. "I'm using my life savings," was retiring, period, but I was asked by "In 2011 I went twice to Ukraine. I ing English for the time being, until I can he said. He plans to move permanently the M CC denomination to be church spent nine weeks there the first time, and learn Ukrainian." to Ukraine in spring 2013. "It's for two development specialist in Scandinavia and six weeks the second, and I traveled to The Russian and Ukrainian languages reasons," he said. "One: I love it. Two: I Eastern Europe." several cities, meeting primarily with gay are related, and most Ukrainians speak can't afford to live here as a retired per­ He continued, "Just as I had no par­ male religious groups. I haven't been able Russian. Rev. Mulcahy says, ''I'm learn­ son, but I can live on my Social Secu­ ticular interest in pastoring Open Arms at to identify the women's groups that are ing Russian through Rosetta Stone, but rity there, which you can't easily do here. the beginning, I had no particular interest around, except for the leader of the femi­ there's no way to learn Ukrainian unless Apartments and food are reasonable, and in Eastern Europe. In 2009 I took a work­ nist group in Ukraine, and I hope to meet you have a personal tutor. There are few public transportation is AWESOME. The ing sabbatical for two months to assist a with her this year." resources except for Harvard, which has subway system in Kiev moves a million friend in Romania. MCC is in probably Rev. Mulcahy is leaving again for the only Ukrainian Institute I am aware people a day, the stations are beautiful, 30 countries around the world, but at Ukraine on May 1. He will stay in of in the country. There are many Ukrai­ it costs 25 cents and I never waited more this time we have no church in Eastern Ukraine for five weeks, and then will nian people in Rochester, including stu­ than two or three minutes for a train!" Europe. I went to Belgrade to march in meet with the head of MCC in Romania dents." Rev. Mulcahy talked about a young their 2009 Pride Parade, but it was can­ in June. Rev. Mulcahy says his motivation is to woman he met last year - Olena, aged celed because of violence. "It's exciting to watch things burst­ be a "bridge person" - embodying Catho­ 20. He is known by many in Ukraine as "When I left Romania in 2009, I did ing out and developing," he said. "It's lic, Protestant and Orthodox religions. "Jeemi". "This charming young woman, not expect to go back to Eastern Europe. exciting to see young people risking their "It's illegal for me to do any of this - no with spiky hair and piercings, said to me, At our 2010 MCC World Conference in lives for their ideals. Ageism doesn't exist foreigner is allowed to hold religious ser­ 'Jeemi, next year you will marry ME.' I Acapulco, my friend from Romania was there - young people are delighted to vices in Ukraine." said I didn't know she had a girlfriend, there, and said, 'We're having a confer­ have older people help them not make the He says that MCC draws LGBT peo- and she said she doesn't - yet!" • ence in Kiev in September and I really same mistakes they did - and advise on need someone to come teach and preach.'" the intellectual/political/spiritual sides of The conference was for LGBT Chris­ their lives." tian leaders. Rev. Mulcahy said, "The Rev. Mulcahy will return to the U.S. minute I set foot in Ukraine I felt I was in June and then will be off again to a at home. It's hard to explain. The people theology summer school for gay Chris­ were incredible and the conference was tian leaders and activists. He said, "In a life-changing experience for the people Eastern Europe, MCC is called 'the social who attended it. They were from Russia, justice church'. Our work is often activ­ Central Asia, Moldava and other Eastern ist work, rather than planting churches. European countries. It's teaching people about the religious "What made the conference unusual right and hatred of gays, as well as about was that in Eastern Europe people don't issues like homosexuality and that there is pray in other churches. Orthodox church­ not a single religious choice, but there are es for the most part don't permit their other ways to look at these issues. They members to attend other churches or pray have been taught that what their church with people of different religions. The preaches is the only way. conference was wide open and people saw "Here we can expect verbal harass­ and experienced things they had never ment at Pride. They can expect physical seen before - including women reading violence, religious people trying to beat the scriptures and taking part in the ser­ them with crosses, skinhead types try­ VIce. ing to break through barriers, throwing ''Also, what I think is really appeal­ rocks and attacking the marchers. And ing is that, because of Ukraine's relatively the police standing aside and saying they recent entrance into democracy, gay and can't offer protection." lesbian activists are all 35 or younger. Rev. Mulcahy notes that flash mobs are 8 THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • NUMBER 455 • APRIL 2012

Nazareth Arts Center COLLEGE 4245 EAST AVE. ROCHESTER, NY 14618-3790

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Don't miss this unique gala program, featuring highlights from beloved ballet classics such as Sleeping Beauty, Paquita, Don Quixote, and Cinderella, performed by soloists of the Russian Ballet and a full corps of dancers. Sponsored by Susan S. Collier, Ph.D., David and Marjorie Perlman

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NERP DINNER & SHOW: The Northeast Regional Pride Conference on March 10 at the Radisson featured a show starring Jessica Sutta, above left, the Rochester Gay Men's Chorus and Buffalo's Dykes of Hazard. Top center: Rebecca Newberry gets carried away. (See article starting on page 1.) Photos: Jeff Mills

is a tribute to Tim's late mother. Tim also owns the One Restau­ rant at 1 Ryan Alley, and the Spa and Body Club on Liberty Pole Way and has owned many gay bars over the years, as well as helping the Gay Alliance buy its first community center. Born in Spencerport, Tim grew up in Churchville/Chili until his family moved to Wayne County and he went to high school at Wayne Cen­ tral, where he played hockey and was on the swim team. He has always loved table ten­ nis as well, and was Section 5 champion, going to the state finals several times. He enjoys Tim Tompkins with Father Jim Callan and Rev. Mary Ramerman. long walks, especially at Cobbs Hill reservoir, where he enjoys thought "Tinker Tailor" was this potentially life-saving pro­ the view and the water. He also "brilliant." gram. "I never thought much spends time at Keuka Lake. Tim's favorite local events are about it," he said, "until a friend Tim bought his first property political fundraisers. "My favor­ of mine called me, afraid that in Rochester shortly after gradu­ ite was a fundraiser I held for he had just been exposed to ating from St. Bonaventure. "I Bob Duffy when he was run­ HIY. Unfortunately, it was too remodeled the third floor and ning for mayor," he says. He also late for him and he is now HIV rented out the first two floors," tries to support AIDS causes. positive. I think PEP should be he says. He has never looked He said, "On my birthday last more visible and better promot­ back. Dec. 3 I had a major event to ed. Every AIDS care provider Tim Tompkins at Benedetto's. Photos: Susan Jordan "Rochester has been very bring attention to World AIDS in New York should have some­ good to me," he said. "I became Day. It was the opening of thing about it on their website. a self made man, as I like to say. Dr. Atwaters' HIV/AIDS post­ To me, there's obviously a com­ I'm very fortunate. I really like The Voters Block Commu­ er collection from around the passionate argument, but you My Own the city. I think health care here nity includes the development of world. He has donated part of also have a financial argument is wonderful and we have a great the collection to U.R. I had at - it costs $800 a month for the Private Rochester: 92 units of housing, consisting gay community." least 100 posters all around the drugs, but that's against a life­ Tim Tompkins both of new construction and Tim is a member of the con­ first floor of my house" (on East time of care for those who are rehabilitation, in the neighbor­ By Susan Jordan gregation of Spiritus Christi Ave.-Tim may soon be mov­ HIV positive. hood of the Susan B. Antho­ Everyone has their own pri­ Church, which has offices in ing to the Park Ave. area). "There has been no health­ vate Rochester, but Tim Tomp­ ny House. The new building Downtown United Presbyterian Tim was appointed to the care worker in New York State kins actually helps to create going up at 431 W. Main St., Church. The progressive con­ NYS AIDS Council by former who has contracted HIV from Rochester - one piece at a time. which will incorporate the 1872 gregation is led by Father Jim Gov. Paterson, and he is try­ a finger prick in the last decade, He has two major projects on Cafe (to be operated by Spiritus Callan and the Reverend Mary ing to get more publicity for because they immediately go to hand right now. Christi Church), is being erected Ramerman. PEP, the Post Exposure Pro­ PEP and get the drugs. So this "I love buying old buildings literally on the site of the build­ Aside from his own restau­ gram. "This helps people who is proven to work. You can go to and remodeling them," he says. ing where Susan B. Anthony was rants, Tim's favorite place to may have been exposed to HIY. the NYS Department of Heath "That's my vocation and I enjoy arrested for voting in 1872, and eat is Rocco's on Monroe Ave. If they get to the hospital emer­ website to learn more about it very much. It's awful when will overlook the Voters Block "Mark Cupola is an extraordi­ gency room right away and get PEP. There's also a NYS doctor beautiful historic buildings are Memorial statue. narily talented chef," he says. "I treatment - they immediately who has a website, PEP411.com. torn down. I've never built a The other current proj­ like his spaghetti bolognese and put you on a regimen of drugs - "I asked for PEP to be on house - I've always restored ect close to Tim's heart is his octopus with green sauce!" you may not contract the virus. the April agenda for the AIDS them." newest restaurant, Benedetto's, In his spare time, Tim enjoys There is an 80 percent suc­ Council, to see if we can get At the moment, though, Tim which may open as early as next going to the movies. "I some­ cess rate if you're there within every AIDS provider to put on is involved with a partly-new month in a beautiful rehabilitat­ times go alone, just to be there hours," he said. the first page of their website, 'I building project - although it is ed 1825 brick house on Alexan­ for two hours," he says. He Tim feels that there has not have been exposed. Click here: being built on a historic site. der St. The two-floor restaurant recently liked "War Horse" and been sufficient publicity about PEP411.com.'" • APRIL 2012 • NUMBER 455 • GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY. THE EMPTY CLOSET 11

for their independence and autonomy, According to Equality Matters: The final bill was defeated by a vote NATIONAL AND but stigmatize and reject them when they "Spokespersons from groups like the of 211 to 116 and the Bates Amendment INTERNATIONAL decide to tell us who they are. The solu­ American Family Association, Family by a vote of 162 to 188. Stripping away tion to LG BTQ bullying and suicide will Research Council, Liberty Counsel and the freedom to marry in New Hampshire (Hate continuedfrom page 5) not be found in courtrooms, but in each the National Organization for Marriage was a top priority of national anti-gay have come to Rush's defense while con­ organizations, which had predicted that riage discrimination in Minnesota, as of us when we decide to celebrate young tinuing to demonize Fluke as an immoral they would be able to garner the vote of documented in a recent report by Andy people for all of who they are. and promiscuous 'sexual anarchist.'" two-thirds of both the House of Repre­ Birkey of the Minnesota Independent. Exo­ ''AVP encourages you to report vio­ These groups include The American sentatives and the Senate to override the dus International, the nation's largest "ex­ lence you experience or witness to our Family Association. promised veto by Governor John Lynch. gay" umbrella group, has also decided to 24-hour bilingual (English/Spanish) hot­ During the March 7 edition of his Freedom to Marry's National Cam­ weigh in this summer, bringing its annual line at 212-714-1141, where you can speak Focal Point radio show, AFA spokesman paign Director Marc Solomon comment­ conference to St. Paul from June 27-30, with a trained counselor and seek support, Bryan Fischer said in a segment entitled: ed, "Live Free or Die is alive and well in at exactly the same time that the debate or you can report violence anonymously "Sleeping With So Many Guys That She New Hampshire. Today's vote affirms over the proposed anti-gay amendment is online via our website." Can't Keep Track:" that Granite Staters stand strongly against expected to reach a fever pitch. stripping away freedoms from any of their "This is no coincidence," said TWO's FISCHER: To think that you would The Right continues to neighbors. Our opponents tried to abuse Becker. "Truth Wins Out plans to be on have a leftist like the President of the defame Sandra Fluke United States saying that the parents of a the 2010 Republican legislative sweep in the ground in Minnesota during Exodus's woman who goes on national TV, admits New Hampshire to repeal the popular road show, and we look forward to collab­ Sandra Fluke wanted to testify to that she's sleeping with so many guys that law. What they didn't count on was the orating with local and state organizations Congress about her friend who could not she can't keep track, doing it three time fact that the freedom to marry is becom­ to fight back against 'ex-gay' lies." get treatment for her ovarian cysts because a day, running out of money, driving me ing a bipartisan value, as resoundingly her employer wouldn't cover contracep­ to the poor house, and to think that par­ reflected in today's vote." tion insurance - which is often used for AVP reflects on meaning ents, he's saying that parents ought to be UPDATE: Craig Stowell, co-chair purposes other than preventing pregnan­ proud of that. You know, I just wonder if for Standing Up For NH Families (and of Clementi trial verdict cy. Sandra found herself called a slut and he would be proud if his daughters were Republican Marine brother of gay Cal­ prostitute by Rush Limbaugh, and the Tyler Clementi's death has brought doing the same thing. Would he be proud vin Stowell) said, "Today is a banner day sexually-obsessed, woman-hating Right national attention to the epidemic of of his daughters going on national TV to for the freedom to marry. Our opponents continued to defame her two weeks later, LGBTQ youth suicide and the March 16 say the same thing? [A FA's Focal Point, have been crowing about getting their as reported by gay groups and bloggers. guilty verdict in the Dharun Ravi case 3/7/12J two-thirds, but in the end, it's clear they Posted by Alvin McEwen Monday reminds us of the work that we have to do (Except of course she didn't say any­ couldn't muster the votes. This is a victory to address the safety of all young people, March 12, 2012 8:20 am on pamshouse­ thing of the sort.) for our supporters -- the majority of Gran­ the National Anti Violence Project writes. blend.com: ite Staters who oppose any roll back of While the focus right now is on the For all of their talking about morality marriage equality -- because they reached verdict and imminent sentencing, AVP and following God's laws, religious right N.H. House rejects out time and again and told lawmakers to wants to encourage all of us to think groups seem to throw these things out marriage equality repeal leave this law alone. about the larger culture in which anti­ of the window when it doesn't suit their by a vote of 211·116 "This was our opponents' best shot LGBTQ bullying occurs. purposes, particularly the commandment and they blew it. This was supposed to be "We live in a country where LG BTQ about not bearing false witness. On March 21, the New Hampshire the most favorable legislative climate for youth are ostracized and shamed. We The 19btq community knows this House of Representatives voted down repeal and they couldn't even get a major­ must address the root causes of bullying hypocrisy very well since we tend to be legislation that would have repealed the ity. Still, we cannot simply pack our bags by making all people in this country feel the recipients of the religious right's lying state's two-year-old freedom to marry law, and go home. Our opponents still want safe, loved and accepted for who they are. vitriol. along with a key vote to defeat the Bates to end marriage equality in New Hamp­ We are capable of recognizing and appre­ But now they have a new target - San­ Amendment, which would have forced shire and we must keep a watchful eye on ciating the talent and gifts that all young dra Fluke. Fluke, who was venomously a non-binding referendum on marriage the Legislature, and make sure voices of people bring to our lives, and we do them attacked by Rush Limbaugh two weeks onto the November ballot and replaced equality are heard in November. But this - and ourselves - a disservice when we ago for her testimony in front of Con­ marriage with civil unions. is a good day for all New Hampshire fam­ withhold this appreciation because of gress regarding contraception, now has The bill was pushed by conservatives, ilies who can celebrate tonight and know their sexual orientation or gender identity members of the religious right smearing but approximately 100 Republicans voted their marriages are no longer under attack and expression. We praise young people her name. against it. in Concord." •

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PRESENTS AN EVENING OF COMEDY ROOFS SIDING WINDOWS PAINTING FRIDAY, APRIL 13,2012· 8:30PM Hochstein Performance Hall , 50 Plymouth Ave N, Rochester, NY KATE !ClINTON 2012ALL FRACKED IPTOUR

Kate's hyperbolic fracking method shakes the bedrock of the comedy mother lode with seismic aftershocks of laughter. She vents about global weirding. Tosses an occu-pie in the face of banksters. Glitter-bombs presidential politics. Spelunks some LGBT schist. Mud wi ll be flung . Warning: dikes cou ld be in danger of collapse. It's a blast! She 's a gas! And after­ Kate always cleans up her own fracking mess!

"Her new show is magnificent. .. " - Tony Kushner

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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS May 24 Opening Night • • • • Presented by Rabbi David Horowitz, President of PFLAG • • • • How to be a II straight ally" • Performance by the Rochester Gay Men's Chorus • • Dessert reception • • June 14 • • Panel Discussion: LGBTQ and Religion • • The Struggle for Inclusiveness • • • • • • June 19 • • Reception and Special Film Presentation: • MODERNISM • • Gen Silent (Sponsored by the Gay Alliance of Genesee Valley) • • • June 21 Film Series: Two Spirits (a partner • MIDCENTURY AMERICAN ART AND DESIGN • • • program with WXXI) • • • • July 19 • THROUGH MAY20,2012 • • • Closing Night Celebration Join Alan van Capelle, long-time political This exhibition is mode possible through the generosity of the w g MEMORIAL Notional Endowment for the Arts; the Henry Luce Foundotion; activist and advocator for LGBTQ rights, and ""i°"' ART GALLERY and the Crah Research Fund of the Center for Crah, current president and CEO of the Progressive • UNIVERSITY·/ ROCH ESTER Creativity and Design. It was organized by the • • m.<1.

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Please Support A Ride For Pride Biker! The 3rd Annual Ride For Pride bike ride fundraiser will take place this year on Saturday, June 16, 2012. All of the money donated goes to the Gay Alliance (minus a teensey-weensey percentage that goes towards use of the firstgiving fundraising site). Last year we were able to raise over $10,000 for the Gay Alliance! Donating is easy! Just go to our website at: http://www.gayalliance.org/events/rideforpride.html and click on the name of the rider you would like to support and you will go directly to their fundraising page. Click the "donate" button and follow the instructions. You can also send a check made out to the Gay Alliance with the rider's name on it to: Gay Alliance Ride For Pride, 875 East Main St., Suite 500 Rochester, New York 14605 Your support at any level is appreciated. Thank you! For questions about Ride For Pride 2011 please contact Jeanne Gainsburg at [email protected] or 585-244-8640 ext. 14. &-.de I I Allies welcome! BASED ON THE LINCOLN CENTER THEATER PRODUCTION : HEAD OUT HIGHWAY JOIN THE ROCHESTER GAY MEN'S CHORUS FOR OUR ANNUAL SPRING FLING BENEFIT

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of 1975, the Episcopal group of gay men and the Catholic group of gay men and women came together for worship and socializing. Thus the beginning of Dig­ On nitylIntegrity of Rochester! Cindy Birch, Margaret Mary's partner described the experience of coming to DII On the road with behind Kodak offices. St. Patrick's Cath­ in this way: "With fear men and women olic Church, a Hispanic Mission Church, entered the church - not knowing what to Shoulders To Stand On was the only church in the Rochester expect. They were greeted with open arms By Evelyn Bailey Roman Catholic Diocese that welcomed and warm hugs. After a few minutes they On Feb.l6, I began a road trip south them. Mass had to be said in Spanish. relaxed and said, 'I am HOME!'" to interview members of the LGBT com­ There were 13 present at the first Mass. These brief snippets of my travels munity who have moved away from Roch­ Early in 1975, Rev. Bruce Hanson, among some broad tall shoulders - Bill ester. Rector of St. Luke's Episcopal Church, Pritchard, Bob Dardano, Bruce Hanson, Bill Pritchard's involvement with and Fr. Walt Szymanski, a curate at St. Margaret Mary Lau and Cindy Birch -- will Rochester LGBT community began in Thomas Episcopal Church, met to discuss be expanded upon in future articles, the the late '80s with the Political Caucus bringing a group of gay men to St. Lukes Shoulders To Stand On documentary, our of the GAGY. Bill joined the Board of from St. Thomas to meet on Sunday archives, our blog and our written history. the Gay Alliance in 1992, and became afternoons. Fr. John Robbins was in con­ These men and women continue to contrib­ Board President in 1994. In 2003 Bill was tact with Rev. Bruce and Fr. Walt. Kodak ute their openness, passion, warmth, pride appointed to fill a vacancy on Rochester was expanding behind its offices and and spirit to the communities they now City Council, and in 2007 was named St. Patrick's was scheduled to be demol­ live in. Shoulders To Stand On is proud to Vice President of City Council. In 1994 ished. Rev. Bruce gained permission to know them and proud of the many contri­ Bill was awarded the Vinnie Cup. use the worship space and the parish hall butions they have made to the greater Roch­ Bill, an openly gay government official for social gatherings. In the late spring ester LGBT community. • for over 18 years, courageously fought to TO STAND ON bring equality and full civil rights to the Rochester LGBT community. Now Bill is History Corner: April the Executive Director of the Foundation Washington, DC and enjoys simply walk­ at Union Hospital of Cecil County, MD. ing to work every day. From April 1974 EC: He and his partner Michael live happily in The next leg of my journey focused Gay Alliance Meeting Schedule on the early history of DignitylInteg­ Sun 7 Apr: Business Meeting/Gay Town Meeting. First meeting at the new center Newark, Delaware with their three dogs. location. 713 Monroe Ave. Bob Dardano, currently working at rity Rochester. Dignity-Integrity/Roch­ Sun 14 Apr: Center Drop-In Night. No meeting scheduled, but Center open. All the Library of Congress in Washington, ester (D-II R) was chartered in 1975 as welcome - drop in! DC as Senior Acquisitions Specialist, was the first combined chapter of the national Sun 21 Apr: Speaker: "Law Enforcement Problems With Homosexuals; A Police­ a gay activist in Rochester in 1984. Bob organizations of Dignity/USA (Roman man's View." Representative from the Rochester Police Department. was involved in fighting for passage of a Catholic) and Integrity, Inc. (Episcopal). Sun 26 Apr: Social: Gay Coffee House. Bring food, games, fun. friends, and espe­ County anti-discrimination proposal. In As lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and cially yourself. June 1984, Bob was awarded the Vinnie intersexed persons of faith, members of Sun 5 May: Business Meeting/Gay Town Meeting. Cup. DII form a small faith community with 12 May: Program; "Gay Music." Bruce Jewell of WCMF's Green Thursday plays and For many years Bob was a staff mem­ regional and national connections in the discusses a newly emerging branch of music. struggle for justice in church and society. GAGV meetings are normally held 7:30 Sunday night at the GAGV Center, 713 ber of The Empty Closet and in charge of Monroe Ave., second floor, except as noted above. Meeting topics may occasionally subscriptions. He also was a member of In 1973, a group of gay Catholics, be shifted due to scheduling difficulties the U. of R. Gay and Lesbian Association, under the leadership of Kevin Scahill Other events of interest: the Rochester Gay Political Caucus and and Margaret Mary Lau, began a Roch­ Sundays: Cooking Class. Basic and specialty cooking. the NYS Lesbian and Gay Lobby, and ester chapter of Dignity, the gay Catholic Every Wednesday: Gay Radio Program, "Green Thursdays". WCMP-PM, 96.5rthz, represented the GAGV on the Rochester group. Fr. John Robbins, a Basilian priest, Wednesday midnight. Regional Advisory Council of the NYS was Chaplain. On Sunday they wor­ Thursdays: Gay Task Force meets, 2 Fuller Place, 8 p.m. Division of Human Rights. Bob lives in shipped at St. Patrick's Catholic Church

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Oh happy days, I could sleep with neither gathered around, singing "Happy death­ disruption nor guilt. day to you, dear Meredith, happy no more Each new dawn offered splendid ben­ for you." Or perhaps I should undertake efits. At last I could tarry over coffee on the pleasant plan, the one where I wake up my porch, luxuriating in sun warmth as dead after a good night's sleep. Oh never I perused the newspaper. At last I could mind, I will simply stay in the moment. design endless days of Slow Time ... to Why spoil the surprise? read, curled in my cushiony pink chair. .. MeredithElizabethReiniger@Jrontier­ The opinions of columnists, editorial writers and other ~ontri~uting writers to dabble in my art studio, decorating fur­ net. net are their own and do not necessarily reflect the collective attitude of the niture ... to putter in my gardens. Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley or The Empty Closet. At last I could schedule Slow Time for Faith Matters any time of day... evening strolls through the park with my love... taking Vegas IT'S WHAT - AND NOT WHO - Growing Up people. Lots of suits. M.S. had been con­ and Nevada for leisurely morning walks KILLED WHITNEY HOUSTON nected to a classy private school. And then and, best of all, having all the time in the AT A CERTAIN AGE I read the hand-out. world to be mindful of glinting ponds, By Rev. Irene By Eric Bellmann "Hostess, sports fan, dog lover, per­ floating geese, and dog joy. Monroe First it's birth­ cussionist, proud Irishwoman, waitress, And the benefits continued. Unlimit­ An allegation day parties for the article clipper" -- and that's only a third ed Free Time gave me more days for more surfaced last month fifty year olds. The of the list. This lady knew everyone, went movies, concerts, and plays. Entertain­ that pop superstar best is yet to come. everywhere, touched many people, several ment did not have to be wedged between Whitney Houston Let's party. Then of whom shared when the time for sharing work weeks. My concentration was not was murdered. the sixty year olds. was announced. interrupted by thoughts rushing toward CNN commen­ Is sixty the new But the best part was the end. Did Monday Requirements. Any day could be tator Nancy Grace fifty? Then the sev­ you notice "percussionist" in the preced­ FunDay. ignited a firestorm enty year olds. That ing list? She played the god damn drums! So that is why I decided to reinstate of criticism speculating Houston's death comes as a shock. Eventually we adjust. So a gaggle of really ancient men, friends my fan status, to buy season tickets to Red might have been a homicide. Hey, we're still hanging on. Attitude is and colleagues, I assume, assembled and Wings' games. Chose Fireworks Fridays. "I'd like to know who was around her, everything. played "When The Saints Go March­ Perfect, two Fun Things in one night. who, if anyone gave her drugs, following When I was a kid I hung out with a ing In" in that typical New Orleans slow Except I forget to factor in reality. Post­ alcohol and drugs, and who let her slip, or roughneck Italian boy who lived across first verse, upbeat second verse version game time is really, really late. Without pushed her, underneath that water," Grace the street. When his grandmother died, that they use for funeral marches and it fail and without permission, myoId eye­ told CNN. they laid her out at home. Their tradition, was sublime. They even used her purple lids fell down. Neither sparkles nor bangs On Feb. 11 Houston was found dead I guess. I went to see Jamie. I wasn't pre­ drum set! Man, what a finish! Not a lot could raise them. in the bathtub of her Beverly Hilton Hotel pared to see his grandmother. That put of dry eyes. Even in retirement, the Sleep Thing room on the eve of the Grammy Awards. me off funerals. So it came to me to reflect who would is still part of the equation. One differ­ Then Houston's former sister-in-law, But time does march on and now I've remember me and how would they recall ence ... I welcome ten hours of sleep, adore Bobby Brown's sister Leolah Brown, was been to a few. Some were the result of knowing me. Well, maybe there's time to sleeping... even with one barrel-body speaking up too. gruesome accidents, others disease, and work on that. dachshund at my feet and one medical­ "I believe Whitney's death was not accidental," Brown told the tabloid televi­ now it's old age. Death, the saying goes, Email: [email protected] ly-required pillow between my legs plus sion news show ''Access Hollywood." is for the living. The funerals of people one large Border Collie/Springer Spaniel cut down suddenly are always the worst. stretched long, crossways. And then, oh This new and disturbing allegation Cleaning My Closet flew counter to the Coroner's Office No time to prepare. Caught off guard, yes, possibly snuggling near my soft wyfe­ families and friends have had no time to TIME CRUNCH womyn. report that there was no sign of foul play or trauma. Ultimately the official cause of process grief, no time to imagine a future By Meredith Subtracting sleep time from my day death was drowning due to cocaine use. without that person who had been essen­ Elizabeth Reiniger leaves fourteen hours of wakefulness. Of While family, friends, and fans blame tial, vibrant, a part of their lives. Shug Avery was a course they are not all fun and games. Whitney's colossal downfall on drugs and The deaths of old people are weird in Top, snuggling into First, like my mother said, I have to do my Boston's R&B bad boy Bobby Brown, other ways. The herd has been thinned. the hills and val­ chores. Of course, I expected Existence both functioned in helping Houston Who is still around to mourn? Who leys of quilt moun­ Chores to last forever. develop an approving black identity and remembers? Does anyone sit in silence tains. Alice Walker But I never anticipated so many time­ an unquestioning sexuality. and think: if it had to be someone, better was an Under, slip­ consuming Body Maintenance Chores. What is now an adoring and all you than me? ping into the Mama It turns out that my used body requires embracing black fan base for Houston But now and then there is a service, a Cave beneath those some difficult and embarrassing tasks. was not always the case. In 1989, Hous­ memorial that is terrific. I went to one a mounds, curling her silky catself into the Like three hours of physical therapy just ton was booed at the Soul Train Awards few years ago where the surviving son, a bend of my knees. to be able to walk and use my arms. for supposedly "not being black enough." man who lived many states away, threw a All during my years of singleness, that Like needing iron muscles to manipulate It was at that same show that she met knock down, drag out gala for his mother, was a cherished ritual of heavenly cozi­ industrial-sized clippers to cut my nails. Bobby Brown. not the easiest woman to get along with, ness. A quaint stereotype of lesbian life: Like raising my legs high enough to sand "I have a theory about Whitney Hous­ and the festivities blew everyone away. Just me, under quilts handmade by Aunt my heels. Like stiffening my hairs to make ton," said singer-actress Della Reese, a Endless trays of food. A dance com­ Lynne, Aunt Ruth, and Mommy Betty, sure my Do don't have no vast Old-Lady­ longtime Houston family friend. "I've pany performed! And there were exten­ cuddled with my two beloved female Flat-Spot on the back of my head. been called 'Uncle Tom,' and I know how sive displays of photographs documenting felines, all willing to sleep in for many Tick, tock. Where does the time go? that feels. I think Whitney was so hurt by his mother's life, a dramatic and charm­ hours of our lives. How often am I lured by the siren call of being called a 'sellout' and 'acting white' ing series of adventures that none of the Such copious sleeping started when I internet nymphs? Much of the time I can - and crap like that - she wanted to attendees had a clue about. It was like was a little girl. So deeply asleep that I justify it. It is exercise ... manual dexterity change her image. What better way to do meeting the dame for the first time. So required wake-up assistance. My mother and brain training by playing vocabulary that than to marry a bad boy? And the you just never know. lovingly complied. Opening the curtains tests and mahjong. It is amending my gray drug abuse makes her a flawed person I read a small notice in the Sun­ to let sunrays pierce my lids, she would matter... improving and correcting my fighting to overcome her demons. Makes day church bulletin. A memorial service chant ''A birdie with a yellow bill hopped information bank. It is The One individ­ her relatable." would be held in a few weeks for M.S. upon my window sill, cocked his shining ual that can answer my every question ... Long before Houston's former chauf­ Not an uncommon name, but I won­ eye and said 'Ain't you shamed, you sleepy Who are my Lesbian foremothers? What's feur Al Bowman told the tabloid televi­ dered, was this the M.S. I knew, a woman head?' " the origin of annoying daylight savings sion news show "Entertainment Tonight" who had been in an exercise class I used Not shamed at all... I was a kid and time? How do cats make their purrs? in February that he witnessed Whitney to attend 15 years ago? She would show up time was, I assumed, easily and endlessly Where do birdies with yellow bills make and Bobby high on crack cocaine and in at outdoor art fairs when I used to exhibit. replenished. With that mindset, I have their nests? a threesome with an A-list soul singer in Pleasant woman, good-natured, always probably slumbered for at least 198,563 And then, how much time do I waste? the back of his limo, rumors that Hous­ smiling, always stopping to say hi. hours. Not counting nodding off in class­ How many precious minutes are sucked ton was a lesbian had been circulating I inquired. No one seemed to know. es and movies. up while I delete annoying forwards ... for more than 30 years. And Houston's She was in her mid-70s, retired, recov­ Later, as a teenager, my body demand­ those endless pictures of puppies, kitties, personal assistant as well as best friend ering perhaps from the kind of surgery ed at least 12 hours of sleep, forcing me and kiddies; pages of puns and junky Robyn Crawford was rumored to have common among the elderly. Eventually to jam my bazillion activities into t~e jokes. Forward this to 24 people and reap been Houston's lesbian lover. For a while, I figured out it was the same woman. I remaining hours of wakefulness. FrUlt­ wealth. Send this to 11 friends and back the two women lived together. marked it on my calendar. Could it hurt lessly I fantasized about fashioning a fifty to me, or I will hold a grudge forever. This "I met her when she was 16. It was at me to go? hour day. prayer healed 66 close friends, so forward a summer job .... She had peachy colored My weekly appointment book is not All while I was an employed adult, it in the next ten minutes or die. skin and she didn't look like anyone I'd a crowded document. Exercise classes, sleep was noticeably an inconvenience. I Oh that. The big question... how ever met in East Orange, New Jersey," doctor appointments, a lunch or two so wanted each day to expand to ninety­ much time do I have left? Not in this par­ Crawford told reporter Tom Junod in each week, a reminder to watch Tosh.O nine hours so I could effortlessly read all ticular day. In this life. Will I have thirty­ the February 2012 online issue of Esquire on Tuesday night, maybe a movie at the the journal entries created by my English two more gardens? Should I clean out my Magazine. ''And we went around the Dryden. I could work in this memorial students. AND so I could regularly lose desk and files today? Buy two tubes of world. I was her assistant and then her service. As I thought about it, I fantasized myself in a for-my-pleasure book. AND tooth paste when they are on sale? executive assistant and then her creative how thoughtful it would seem of me to so I could squeeze in a perky personal Conjecture surfaces each time I read director. . . .I have never spoken about her tell whoever was there what a pleasant life. Despite my most excellent efforts, the obituaries of those I have known, worked until now. She was a loyal friend, and she lady M.S. had been. Old, largely forgot­ planet perpetuated puny days. with, loved. I realize there is no answer, knew I was never going to be disloyal to ten, I assumed, maybe a handful of neigh­ Thirty-two years later, I blissfully no website to reveal the date of my depar­ her. Now I can't believe that I'm never bors or surviving work friends. They'd shifted into retirement. Significant chang­ ture. Actually I am quite sure that I do not going to hug her or hear her laughter appreciate my coming, my generous com­ es. No longer did I have to throw my want to know the number of days remain­ again." ments. weary self out of bed at five-oh-mercy-not­ ing, quite sure that I would prefer a bolt Houston exhibiting gender non­ What a jolt. The sanctuary was this-early in the morning. At last I could from the blue. conforming behavior was no secret to packed. Like Christmas Eve. Maybe 500 let my natural inner clock hoist my lids. Or maybe a party of all my friends, APRIL 2012 • NUMBER 455 • GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • THE EMPTY CLOSET 23 those closest around her. The Daily Mail pop star diva down a torturous and trou­ dinner." me that money can't buy happiness." reported that Houston's sister-in-law bling road of self destruction, but one "Where do you go to dinner?" I asked. "No, money can't buy happiness," Tina Brown and her ex-bodyguard Kevin demon not mentioned is homophobia. "I don't know," she replied. ''Any­ said. "But if you're going to be miserable, Ammons both believed Houston may where. Burger King, the Pizza Shack, it is a lot more comfortable to cry in a have been a lesbian because she "had wild the Village Diner. Where did you go to Lexus LX than on a bicycle!" sex sessions with women while out of her A Few Bricks Short for dinner when you were dating, Uncle My niece stopped for a moment and mind on crack cocaine." SWEET SIXTEEN David - potluck dinner at the church looked thoughtfully into her coffee cup. But it was her ex-spouse, bad boy social?" Perhaps she was finally seeing my point - Bobby Brown, who over time has come By David Hull "We're not talking about me right even though I myself was not completely to believe Whitney married him with an My niece is 16 now." I took a bite of my doughnut for clear on what point I was attempting to ulterior motive. "I believe her agenda was years old, an A stu­ strength. "So, why did you pick this Alan make. to clean up her image, while mine was to dent in school; her guy to be your boyfriend anyway? "Uncle David," she said. "Is this dis­ be loved and have children. The media lowest grade is a She shrugged once more. Apparently agreement about my boyfriend or is this was accusing her of having a bisexual rela­ 99 percent. She's shrugging is the precursor to anything a about you and me?" tionship with her assistant, Robin [sic] involved in school teenager says these days. "He's cute. He's "What?" I replied. Crawford. Since she was the American chorus, the drama funny. And his name is Alex, not Alan." "Because I think it might be about you Sweetheart and all, that didn't go too well club and works "What about that guy James who and me." with her image .... In Whitney's situation, part-time at the came to your birthday party," I said. "He's I opened my mouth, but no words the only solution was to get married and dance studio where she takes lessons in cute. Why not date him?" came out. have kids. That would kill all specula­ jazz and tap dance. "Uncle David, I told you, he's gay!" "I know with school and work and tion, whether it was true or not," Brown Practically perfect in every way, you "There's nothing wrong with dating a now with all the time I spend with Alex," penned in his 2007 tell-all book Bobby say? No! What could be wrong? Every­ cute gay guy." I shook my head. "I dated my niece told me, "We don't really have Brown: The Truth, the Whole Truth, and thing! She has a boyfriend. hundreds of them in college. They are any time to spend together. Like, when Nothing But ... Every weekend she and the boyfriend very nice people." the new Twilight movie came out and The freest she may have been in are busy doing something together. Her My niece sighed. "I thought we weren't you used to take me to see them, but now expressing her sexuality without being social calendar has never been so full. talking about you right now?" I went with Alex. Or how you and I used drugged out of her mind might have Her parents are fine with it; her friends "Why is it so important for you to to have shopping trips to the mall, but we been in 1999 at the 13th Annual New are excited for her. Well, everyone else have a boyfriend all of a sudden? You're haven't done that in a long time." York City Lesbian and Gay Pride Dance. is obviously crazy. It seemed it was time only 16! I didn't have a serious boyfriend My niece shook her head. "It's not that Houston that year flew in for a special for me to do something about this insane until I was a sophomore in college." I've forgotten you. It's just that I'm really surprise guest appearance where she per­ situation. "Well," my niece said, shrugging busy and I'm growing up. And you're formed her then two most recent hits, "It's I was giving my niece a ride home again. "Things have changed a lot since always telling me that I was 'raised right', Not Right, But It's Okay" and "Heart­ from work one evening, when we stopped the Depression era." so isn't growing up what I was being break Hotel." by Dunkin' Donuts for our favorite snack; "The Depression era!" I gritted my raised to do?" The homophobic constraints of career decaf coffees and glazed crullers. While teeth. "How old do you think I am?" Nothing is worse than that moment and family expectations no doubt contrib­ seated at a corner table, I mentioned that "Remember, we're not talking about in the middle of a disagreement when you uted to the stressors in Whitney's "down I didn't particularly like this whole "boy­ you," my niece replied, smiling. suddenly realize that you are wrong. And low" life, but so, too, the church, even at friend" thing one little bit. "Does Alex have a job?" nothing worsens that moment even more her "home-going" (funeral) service. ''I'm 16," she replied, with a shrug. "So "No," she answered me. "He's in high than having your teenage niece show you With homophobes like Pastor Don­ I have a boyfriend. It's no big deal. What school. He plays football and baseball. He how wrong you really are. nie McClurkin, the poster boy for Afri­ are we - Amish?" really doesn't have time to work right now. I guess Alex really wasn't so bad. He can American "ex-gay" ministries, and "No, we're not Amish," I said. "But He might help his Uncle with some drive­ was kind of cute and funny, I suppose. gospel singers Angie and Debbie Winans, you two are always busy. What do you do way sealing jobs this summer though." I didn't dislike him so much as I was who released a single in 1998 titled "Not when you're out on a date?" I nodded. "Yeah, driveway sealing -- I unhappy with the whole situation. Natural," in which they self-righteously "You mean besides the sex and drugs, hear there's a lot of money to be made in I had to admit that I did long for denounced LG BTQ people, to name a right?" She smirked and toasted me with that field." those days when my niece was young and few, singing Whitney farewell, only a her coffee mug. "What am I supposed to do?" my I could pick her up and hold her and con­ "down low" existence was possible for her. "Not funny," I grumbled. niece, rolled her eyes. "Marry a 16-year­ trol her. Maybe that was still what I want­ We may never know all the demons She shrugged again. "We go to the old doctor or lawyer, so I can have a rich, ed to do, but, when you're dealing with that took this internationally renowned movies or hang out at the mall or go to young husband? You always used to tell a 16-year-old, that was ... well, that was

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Dress" that is perfect for you? quest for a dress is Comfort. Be real­ will not order plus sized gowns. The COLUMNISTS You can start by looking for ideas istic about how much pain you can place that has the best selection in town and styles at on-line bridal sites or in take for the sake of beauty and glam­ is David's Bridal. They also have sam­ bridal magazines. But don't limit your­ our. Navigating in a form fitting bridal ple gowns in all sizes on sale. I recently (Bricks continued from page 23) self. If you want to be married on the gown for eight hours is not for every­ shopped with a bride and she bought an totally "terrid" (as my niece would say, shores of Lake Ontario at sunset in one. Think about what it will be like $800 gown for $200. It looks beautiful although I have no idea what the heck it July, you could consider caftans. If you to sit, stand and dance in the dress you on her and we both know what a great means, except that it's really bad!). love the BoHo look, think about wear­ are considering. bargain it was. "Well," I said hesitantly. "Maybe you ing luminous silk tunics with skinny Plus Size brides face a challenge in Happy shopping and if you need help, might possibly be right." silk pants and loads of white and ivory buying a dress in Rochester. Most tra­ the NY Gay Wedding Consultant is just beads, scarves and bracelets. My niece smiled. "So if I'm right, then ditional salons do not carry and cannot/ a phone call away: 585 733-2579 . • you would be ... ?" Talk to each other about what you "Is this necessary?" I asked. want to wear. If each of you wants to She nodded, still smiling. shop independently, take one of your trusted "in common" friends with you Susan SanFilippo, C.S.W. "Then I was wrong," I admitted. 234-3561 "Wow," she said. "Hearing that was to the store. That way you won't wind sweeter than this doughnut!" up both buying the same dress! While Counseling & Psychotherapy OK, so I had been put in my place by a that might be funny to your guests, you - W IU' can't life be foir? teenager. It was humiliating, but it wasn't may not be as amused when you each -!I I cbange, u,ill Ttry partner? all bad. The very next weekend my niece "surprise" the other on your wedding -U7hat effect does my past have on me? let me go to the mall with her and Alex! day. - U7hat can I do about myfutur e? You can contact David at David­ You don't have to be locked into Individual and couples therapy (sliding fee scale) hull59@aol. com going to a bridal salon for a gown. You can shop at vintage stores and thrift 500 Helendale Road, Suite 155, Rochester N.Y. 14609 and consignment shops. Remember, you NY Gay Wedding don't have to spend a lot to look great on Consultant your wedding day. If you do plan to buy a gown at a HERE COME THE BRIOES traditional bridal salon, expect to order Martha M. Howden, CSW, CASAC By Eve Elzenga the dress 12 weeks before the wedding. One of the sur­ It will come in sooner than that, but Anxiety • Depression prising gay wed­ you will have to be fitted several weeks Alcohol • Stress • Grief ding trends is the before the wedding. That is true for any Relationship • Family Plan feminine, tradi­ gown you buy. You can have a dress tional march up altered at your salon or take your dress Rectification Work the aisle of two to a tailor shop that specifically works Holotropic Breathwork brides -- both in on wedding dresses. They also will press • Specializing in work with wedding gowns. your gown and get it ready for the big individuals and families in And while I am day. seeing lots of brides selecting ivory col­ A practical point of using a bridal the Coming Out process ored dresses, they still are true bridal salon is that they will help you with the gowns. underpinnings of your dress - strap­ Martha M. Howden, CSW, CASAC In the beginning, I never envisioned less, long line bras; slips; Spanx. They legions of lesbians embracing this main­ also have the trimmings - sashes, veils, 945 E. Henrietta Road, Suite A6 stream norm. But now that we have the tiaras, shoes, jewelry - that will "finish" Rochester, New York 14623 freedom, we can dream big and do it up. your look. Be warned: salon accessories Phone: 585 272-1760 While not every couple will choose are pricey. Consider looking online or in Fax: 585 272-8986 this option, your wedding is the perfect local non-bridal shops for these items at moment to show a soft, warm, beautiful more reasonable prices. Most Insurances Accepted side of yourself. Now, how to find "The One thing not to overlook in your For all your accounting needs: Cheryl's Kitty B&B Luxury In-Home "Call the Gay CPA" Cat Boarding

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In June 2012, "Road Trip" will fea­ ROCHESTER WOMEN'S ture an eclectic mix of songs from pop to jazz to classical and back again, includ­ COMMUNITY CHORUS: eommunity ing California Dreamin: Georgia on My WITH A SONG IN THEIR Mind, Last Letter Home, and the world HEARTS premiere of the TTBB version of Were the World Mine. The concert, Saturday, "I love my chorus!" These four Find the friends, fun, and common interests you're looking for through June 16 at 8 p.m. in Hochstein, is sure to words have become something of a the various groups listed below. thrill our audience. chant, a heartfelt sentiment that res­ Those with questions can go to our onates throughout the second floor website, www.thergmc.org, or call (585) room of the Downtown United Presby­ 423-0650. terian Church on Fitzhugh St., where DIGNITY-INTEGRITY LORA & DYKE PICNIC the Rochester Women's Community ROCHESTER TRANS Chorus rehearses each Tuesday eve­ D-I Rochester meets weekly at 5 p.m. KICK OFF ning. at St. Luke's and St. Simon's Church, 17 S. L.O.R.A (Lesbians Of Rochester & GROUP As a new member of this chorus, all Fitzhugh St., corner of Broad St. Allies) meets the second Friday of each I can say is, "Me too!" And why not? First Sunday: Episcopal Mass/Heal­ We have some really exciting news for month for potluck and Games Night, our April 28 meeting! Through Jeanne Ever since the day I joined the group ing Service, with music; Second Sun­ 6-10 p.m., GAGV Youth Center, 875 E. back in September, I've been welcomed day: Special Easter Sunday Service, with Gainsburg's efforts (she's the Gay Alli­ Main St. www.l-o-r-a.com; info@l-o-r-a. ance's Community Outreach person) warmly by this diverse gathering of music; Third Sunday: Quiet Episcopal com or call: 585-313-3037 women. Women of all stripes - eth­ Mass in the Chapel; Fourth Sunday: Eve­ members of the Transgender Alliance Dyke Picnic Kick Off Party @ 140 of Central New York and, from Buf­ nicities, beliefs, experiences and ori­ ning Prayer, followed by a Potluck Supper; entations -- are embraced here. There Alex takes place on Sat., April 21 from falo, members of Spectrum Transgender Fifth Sunday: Evening Prayer, followed are even opportunities for non-singing 6-10 p.m., 140 Alexander St. Upstairs Group WNY and the Buffalo Belles will by a special program. Room. members (female or male). What could April Potluck Theme: "Primavera," both be coming to Rochester to share Join us as we kick off our event! Din­ ideas, food, and FUN! be more inclusive than that? one of the words for spring, brings to And then there is RWCC's wonder­ ner and entertainment! 140 Alex has two This visit is unprecedented in the his­ mind fresh foods and new recipes. Spring ful music director, Kristy Houston. menus to choose from - a bar menu and tory of the RTG, so please plan to take will have just begun on the fourth Sun­ Beyond her impeccable soprano voice, dinner menu. Lots to choose from! NO advantage of this unique opportunity day of April, so bring your favorite dish her terrific sense of rhythm and bril­ COVER! to meet and talk and then PARTY with that means "spring" to you! No time to liant teaching methods, Kristy's enthu­ So come hang out with us! Meet some trans members from Buffalo and Syra­ cook? Join us anyway as there is always siasm and generous good cheer feel like of the female performers and have FUN! cuse! So we hope to see you at 3 p.m. on plenty to share. a breath of fresh air. If we can't read Seating is limited so come early. First Saturday, April 28. Schedule Change: Easter falls on the come first served! music, we're told, that's OK. If we need Now back to our Feb. 25 meeting. second Sunday of April this year, and we a line repeated a few times, that's OK Special thanks to the kind folks at Even though we were having one of the usually celebrate with a Roman Catholic 140 Alex for donating the upstairs room too. Everyone learns differently. But few blizzards of the season, we still had Liturgy of the Word. However, the Rev. for our kick off party. learn we do. With most songs written 16 people, including our engaged couple Michael Hopkins has offered to celebrate in four-part harmonies, there is much who came all the way from Waterloo! Easter Sunday for us with an Episcopal to be learned in preparation for our ROCHESTER BUTCH We began with Courtney Michie who Mass. Join us if you can! two main concerts per year. is the Rochester community coordinator Special Program: Mary Ellen and FEMME CONNECTION And speaking of concerts, our cur­ Casey Lopata, the founders of Fortunate for ESPA (the Empire State Pride Agen­ The Rochester Butch-Femme Con­ rent performance venue is the magnifi­ Families, will join us on Sunday, April 29. da) enthusiastically introducing herself cent sanctuary in St. Anne's Church They will update us on the work of Fortu­ nection will have two supper events in and explaining what ESPA is doing about April 2012. on Mt. Hope Ave. We performed our nate Families and Equally Blessed (a coali­ getting GENDA (the Gender Non Dis­ winter concert there and will sing there tion which also includes Dignity USA, On Saturday, April 14, we will meet crimination Act) enacted as a law in our at Cracker Barrel Restaurant on Hylan again on Saturday, June 9 at 7:30 p.m. New Ways Ministry and Call to Action). state legislature. The theme of our spring concert is You can always check for updates Drive in Henrietta at 7 p.m. (take Hylan She also emphasized that since Mar­ Drive over Route 390 heading away from "With You by My Side." It promises to at our website (http://www.di-rochester. riage Equality was passed, the only thing delight listeners with a lovely collection orgl) or by calling the DI Hotline at 585- Wegmans and it's on the right). that ESPA will be concentrating on and On April 28, we will meet at East of songs; some you'll recognize and 234-5092. lobbying for is GENDA. There is more others will be new. The entire Roches­ Ridge Family Restaurant on East Ridge information on all this and more at Road in Irondequoit at 7 p.m. ter community is invited to come out www.prideagenda.org. and enjoy. JUST US GUYS For further information on the Con­ Then Kelly Clark, Director of Com­ nection, contact Kerry/Max at (585) If you're interested in further infor­ Keeping up the momentum of the munity Safety for the Gay Alliance, mation, or perhaps joining us, please LGBT March Health Month, our April 288-7208, email [email protected] gave an insightful talk about crime and or check out our Facebook page http:// check out our website at: http://www. 10 gathering will focus on learning more what makes a crime a "hate crime" or therwcc.org/ about Yoga, Tai Chi and Qi Gong basics. www.facebook.com/bfconnection. not and just how difficult it is to pros­ With the help of some selected DVDs ecute a crime as a hate crime. There are we will explore some of the essential ROCHESTER GAY MEN'S a number of criteria the crime has to ROMANS DO poses, postures and repetitive movements CHORUS meet, including that the victim is picked VOLLEYBALL IN THE that make these art forms so unique and because of who they are or who they are NUDE! powerful at all levels. Since this is a new First rehearsal of the June Cycle is "perceived" to be. subject matter for most of the group, it announced! She also discussed her (as she put it, Do you love to play volleyball? should be an interesting experience and The Rochester Gay Men's Chorus personal project) in which she is trying Have you ever thought it would be fun good introduction of the group to any will hold voice placements and first to shift the conversation of the rights as to play a friendly game in the nude? visitors. rehearsal of the spring season on Thurs­ guaranteed in our Constitution as com­ Romans (Rochester Male Naturists) Gathering time is 6 p.m. in the lower day, April 5, at 6:30 p.m. at the Down­ pared to the Universal Declaration of will be having a nude game Saturday level conference room at AIDS Care, 259 town United Presbyterian Church, 121 Human Rights as decreed by the United evening, April 7. Monroe Ave. For visitors unfamiliar with N. Fitzhugh St. in Rochester, with the Nations in 1948. It was quite eye open­ This is a fun, friendly game for the building, there is a security booth in rehearsal beginning at 7 p.m. ing and somewhat unsettling. all levels of skill from beginners to the entrance hall that will provide direc­ Now is the time to consider joining us We meet in the Gay Alliance's Youth pros. If this sounds like something tions. as we celebrate into the summer. Singing Center, located on the first floor in the you would like to try, even if for only Many of our guys are long time sup­ together with a common purpose is not Auditorium Center, 875 E. Main St. once in a lifetime to say you did it, porters of the Rochester Gay Men's only fun and fulfilling, but builds friend­ Parking is available in the back of the call the Romans at 585-281-4964 or Chorus through attending concerts and ships. Under the artistic direction of Dr. theatre on College Ave., between Prince email www.wnyromans.com for the benefit functions. We are pleased that Robert Strauss, this season bursts with and Goodman. Note: if there is a guard details. The evening also offers nude a current JUG member is one of the At promise. Strauss looks forward to meet­ at the booth, just say you're here for the swimming, a hot tub, sauna, and steam Large Members of the RGMC Board of ing new members and longtime friends at Gay Alliance and they have instructions room, along with workout machines Directors. During the months of April the first rehearsal in April. to let you in without paying the park­ and free snacks. First time attendees and May there are three special benefit During the voice placement Dr. Rob­ ing fee. get in for free! events which JUG members will be help­ ert Strauss will take a few minutes to lis­ And thank you Kayla for once again The Romans group has been host­ ing promote. The Chorus is a local gem ten to your range and voice type using providing probably the richest "fugdis­ ing clothes-free social activities for men that deserves support from all of us. To some simple vocalization. The voice tist" treat yet! in the Rochester and Western New learn more specifics about these events, placement is also an opportunity to chat We hope you can join us for April's York area for over twenty years. The make an online visit to www.thergmc.org with Rob about what you'd like to gain meeting. It might be a once in a ? event group is open to all gay-friendly men To learn more about our group, con­ from your choral experience with RGMC to meet with and party with other Trans ages 21 and over who respect men in tact Ron at 729-2259 or email rmatter1@ and to discuss the most effective ways for group members in upstate New York! all colors, sizes, shapes, ages, and tex­ rochester.rr.com you to contribute to the ensemble. (See article, page one.) tures . •

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Mini-interview: Jessica Sutta on t "sutta pop" By Susan Jordan The lovely Jessica Sutta, for­ merly of the Pussycat Dolls, written, so .. Audi­ headlined the show at the NERP ences get a 'behind-the-music' conference dinner on March look at an iconic group's rise to 10 at the Radisson. She talked stardom. The show makes peo­ to The Empty Closet about her ple laugh, it makes them cry, views on show biz and her ulti­ and the music takes them back mate dreams. in time, it seems. Men love it. Empty Closet: What are Jessica Sutta Women love it. By the end of some of the biggest challenges the night, audiences are on their when starting a solo career as a Madonna and Britney Spears. feet, dancing and singing along. performer? EC: Do you have a new CD, For those of us onstage, it's a Jessica Sutta: First of all, the and how can our readers get it? pretty rewarding view!" entertainment industry, in my JS: My album is entitled Barry plays a real person, Bob opinion, is one of the hard­ "sutta pop" and is set to be Crewe, who not only managed est industries in the world. The released in September 2012. the group but also wrote much business is tough and requires EC: How would you define of their material. "I have an you to believe in faith whole your musical and personal styles? absolute blast playing Crewe," he heartedly. I think the biggest JS: Pop dance house with a says. "I feel so lucky to visit the challenge is to never give up and dash of "sutta pop". role every night! The fact that set out for your goals, no matter EC: What is your ultimate all of the characters in our play what. I've learned that dreams career dream or aspiration? actually existed has made the indeed come true. JS: To be able to travel and research aspect so helpful. Crewe EC: Who are the singers/per­ perform around the world with served as the Four Seasons' pro­ formers who have inspired and "sutta pop." I want to inspire ducer and co-writer, and he has influenced you most? young performers. And to love had such an impressive and col­ JS: Kylie Minogue, Beyonce, and be loved . • orful career through the years. He was a Jersey boy himself, raised in Belleville. But he was definitely refined. He recorded a bit as a soloist, he was a fash­ ion model at one point, he had a love and talent for visual arts and design. And then, of course, he's best known now as a music producer -- his influence on the industry is huge. With our play, Barry Anderson audiences get a fun sense of his eccentricities and his sexuality. "Jersey Boy" Barry Barry hopes to have a diverse, There are no apologies there. But varied, and long career in the he was also really good at his job. Anderson knows entertainment industry, and So all of these aspects factor into an actor's life on admires those whose careers my characterization of this man. have lasted. "To be able to have The writers have given Crewe the road 'done it all' would be fantastic, some wickedly funny lines, the By Susan Jordan needless to say," he noted. "The costumes are amazing, so it's a Barry Anderson plays Bob bulk of my work as an actor has complete joy!" Crewe, manager of Frankie Valli been onstage in the theatre. Just Life on the road can be chal­ and the Four Seasons, in Jersey in the past couple of years I've lenging, as actors fly or bus from Boys, which returns to the Audi­ begun to explore more of the city to city, waking up in an torium Theatre April 3-29. TV/film side of things, and I unfamiliar place most days and Barry's career includes the absolutely want to do more of seeking to win over new audi­ following credits: Broadway: that. It's a completely different ences. The Jersey Boys cast will be Legally Blonde (Aaron Schultz); beast than doing a live show here for an entire month and will National Tour: Legally Blonde, eight times a week, that's for get to know Rochester. My Fair Lady; Regional: Where's sure. It's challenging in a whole Barry says, "I am having Charley? (Charley); Bye Bye Bird­ different way. But it's all fun. As a great time touring with this ie (Albert); Honk! (The Cat); The far as the future goes, I think I show. Our cast is so talented, Civil War; TV/film: "30 Rock," will remain content and grateful and our tour schedule is won­ ''As The World Turns," "For­ as long as I'm able to do work derful. We are getting to play ward & Gone." I'm proud of and enjoy." some really cool cities. This will Barry is a Music graduate of His inspirations are actors be my first time playing Roch­ Kate Clinton the University ofWisconsin-Eau who have had long and varied ester, actually, and I'm looking Claire, and a proud member of careers. ''Artists who don't let forward to spending a month in ImageOut presents media, and much, much more. Actor's Equity. Visit www.you­ their age stop them from per­ the city. Kate Clinton's "All And her upstate connection will tube.com/andersonandpetty or forming and doing what they "This is my third time tour­ make her fit right in." www. andersonandpetty.com for love are the ones I find most ing with a show, so I've had my Fracked Up" Tour "Born in Buffalo, raised share of crazy stuff happen on more information. inspiring, hands down. Chris­ Get ready for an earthquake in Syracuse - I'm happy to be the road. Years ago, I did my Recently Barry Anderson topher Plummer, Angela Lans­ of laughter! At 8:30 p.m. on Fri­ returning to my Upstate roots," first tour right after I finished talked to The Empty Closet about bury, Hal Holbrook, Betty day, April 13, ImageOut, Roch­ says Clinton, who also praises college -- a non-union, bus-and­ Jersey Boys and his career. "I'm White... actors with vital, busy ester's Lesbian and Gay Film ImageOut for its years of pre­ truck tour. Towards the end of from a small town of about careers who just happen to be and Video Festival, will present senting films for and about the our grueling seven-month stint 1,500 in rural Wisconsin," he in their 80s and 90s! They are An Evening of Comedy with LGBT community. "ImageOut of mostly one-nighters, we were said. "It was a great place to the sort of actors that I have Kate Clinton at the Hochstein isn't just the best film festival in scheduled to sit-down in Okla­ be raised. And even though the most respect for. To me, it's Performance Hall, 50 N. Plym­ Rochester - it's one of the best in homa City for a whole week 0), it couldn't have been further always fun to get to work with outh Ave. the country. Happy 20th anni­ which we considered a luxury. removed from New York City, people who have been in the Part of ImageOut's 20th versary, I'll bring the popcorn!" Our second day in town, how­ luckily there always seemed to business for a long time and are anniversary year line-up, Kate's Tickets are on sale now for ever, the hotel we were staying be opportunities to perform. I still there, in the trenches, doing brand new ''All Fracked Up" $30 and will be $35 at the door. in caught fire and burned down. come from a musical family; my the work because they love it. tour comes four years after the They may be purchased online Not fun. And just a tad inconve­ dad and his brothers still play in Cool stuff" fabulous sold-out "Hilarity Clin­ by credit card at www.imageout. nient ... But fortunately everyone a band. So performing with and Jersey Boys features a lot of ton" show, that proved a great org, at the ImageOut office, was safe, no one was hurt, and for other people never seemed classic pop songs that take audi­ success as ImageOut's largest 274 N. Goodman St, Suite the show went on... I think we odd in any way. I began taking ences of a certain age back to event to date. A203, Monday-Friday from 1-5 all paid our dues on that one! I piano lessons when I was eight, their youth, and send people of "We are thrilled to have Kate p.m. (cash, check, or charge), am happy to report that our Jer­ and I LOVED it. Singing and all ages out of the theatre with back in Rochester," says Ima­ Equal=Grounds, 750 South Ave, acting seemed equally exciting, the tunes stuck in their heads. sey Boys tour has been nothing (cash or check) and OUTlandish but smooth sailing. It's a dream geOut Board Chair Paul Allen. even if just for the small school Barry says that Rochester audi­ "She's a superb entertainer, Video and Gifts, 274 N. Good­ job, and I'm excited to be bring­ and church programs. When I ences should prepare themselves blending sharp-witted political man St. (cash or check). Group was 12, I did a summer stock for "a great night in the theatre! ing the story to so many parts of tickets sales are available. For the country." and sociological commentary production of Peter Pan, and In addition to featuring all of the with true comic genius. We more information contact the Tickets are on sale at the I think that was the point at famous Four Seasons hits, the think she'll find a broad audi­ ImageOut office by phone, 585- Auditorium Theatre, 800-745- which the 'show business bug' show is masterfully crafted and ence in Rochester for her take 271-2640, or by email at office@ 3000; www.rbtl.org . • first appeared." has a superb book. It is so well- on politics, the environment, imageout.org . • 28 THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • NUMBER 455 • APRIL 2012

Bread & Water Theatre gambling,. .. prostitution" etc. - none of productions - perhaps the gay-themed which takes place at Bread & Water The­ ones - may have reported them to the protests city demand for atre performances. It specifically talks police in order to shut them down. big annual licensing fee about HIV and Teeter feels the ordinance In any case, he said, "The first thing also is meant to apply to gay bars, night­ we did was start to contact the media - By Susan Jordan clubs and bathhouses. The ordinance City newspaper, the Delre, The Empty ].R. Teeter, director of Bread & Water requires that groups meet zoning and Closet - anyone who will listen to us. We Theatre Company, a small theatre com­ other specifications - and the New Life want to get the word out to the public. We pany which performs at New Life Pres­ Church already meets all requirements. have a petition on Change.org and it's on byterian Church, 243 Rosedale St. in the Teeter says what startled him the most Facebook under Bread & Water Theatre. Upper Monroe neighborhood, was star­ was the fact that the City and the Roches­ We've also been petitioning City Council Photo: Mads Nissen tled to receive a letter from the Rochester ter Fire Department have sponsored Bread to revise the law. The more people find Police Department on Jan. 25, informing & Water productions in the past. For last out about this, the more they get upset. It him that he had not obtained an Enter­ ine, religious/political persecution and year's production of "The Arsonist," Tee­ just doesn't make sense." upheaval, human migration and immi­ tainment Center License from the city - ter says, "We were loaned costumes by cost $475. gration, the landless and much more, the city - two actors wore dress uniforms What's coming up for photographers of all nationalities who are Teeter, whose troupe has been stag­ from the Rochester Fire Department and ing plays and events at New Life for 18 years of age or older are encouraged the Fire Department even purchased ad April at Equal=Grounds to apply. seven years, including the annual gay­ space in our program!" themed Rainbow Theatre Festival, was "Seasons of Change," multi-media art Entries must be submitted no later He added that the group had com­ works by Allison J. Nichols, will be shown than May 31, 2012, to be eligible. Please not aware that a license was required for munity sponsorship from the Rochester! small and/or non-profit theatre groups at The Gallery at Equal=Grounds, 750 visit http://www.mrofoundation.org for Monroe County Youth Bureau for its pro­ South Ave., April 1-28. entry rules and submission details found and had never received such a notifica­ duction of "Polaroid Stories." tion. A Shakespeare performance group, The opening reception is April 6, 7-9 under our "Grant 2012" header on our "I asked the Police Department about website. The photographer whose propos­ which staged plays at the church before this," Teeter said, "and they replied, Bread & Water was founded, had never P'~;Erotic Nights 2012" will present its al is selected to receive the $5000 USD 'Sometimes the left hand doesn't know second evening of multi-artist expression grant will be immediately contacted, fol­ been required to pay this fee. what the right hand is doing.'" Teeter says that the upcoming April on April 14 at 8 p.m. at Equal Grounds. lowed by a public press announcement to Teeter says, "In terms of money, to pay The series is produced by Diane Conway be made sometime in late July. Send your and May Rainbow Theatre Festival series that sort of fee every year is so exorbitant will continue as planned. "The Mirror of of CSWA (Culture Starts With Art). submission to submissions@mrofounda­ that only well-established groups or busi­ tion.org. Life" opened March 30 and closes April 1, nesses could afford it. It puts all non-prof­ and "She Said/She Said" opens April 13. its and start-ups out of business." Rivera-Ortiz Foundation He told The Empty Closet, "Every year He noted that the ordinance applies seeks entries for 2012 Brian O'Neill, Beth you must pay $475 - and if you were to any public performance (theatre, film, Bailey art exhibits both notified and you paid in December, you DJ, etc.) in any space, even ifit is for char­ photography grant will have to pay again in January - the open on April 6 ity or if there is no admission charge. He The Manuel Rivera-Ortiz Foundation license is renewable every January. I've said, "This could even apply to amateur for International Photography, London/ w Two art exhibits will open on April 6, reached out to City Council about this, performances on somebody's front porch. York/ Paris/Zurich, announces its second in addition to the show at the Gallery at and there may be potential for a change The only exempt place is performances International Call for Entries. Equal=Grounds. to the ordinance to make it less crippling on municipal property - they don't have In 2011, the Foundation garnered Brian O'Neill's "The Bridge Between for non-profits, charities and small start­ to pay anything. Churches are not exempt nearly 200 entries from some 45 countries Two Worlds" opening is 5-9 p.m. at the up groups. What we're doing is in the - but I've heard that the city would not around the world, culminating in a $5000 Arts & Cultural Council, 277 N. Good­ public interest. We're keeping the church hit on a church performance, like the jazz USD grant awarded to Mr. Mads Nissen man St. The show benefits AIDS Care. building in use and giving money to the concerts at Christ Church or the Luther­ of Denmark. Beth Bailey's art work, "Fractured church." an church that does 'Exodus to Jazz.' But The Manuel Rivera-Ortiz Foundation Fairy Tales" and ''American Road Trip," Teeter feels that the ordinance was the city does insist that non-profits doing for International Photography is again will have an opening reception from 6:30- originally intended to control bars and charity performances pay the $475." seeking entries for outstanding work in 9:30 p.m. at the Gallery Salon & Spa, 780 nightclubs, since it refers to "fighting Teeter says that his group is wonder­ global and social documentary photo University Ave . • and rowdy behavior... illegal or exces­ ing if someone who knows about the reportage. Covering such pressing issues sive consumption of alcoholic beverages ... ordinance and doesn't like some of their as health, poverty, oppression, war, fam-

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THE GAY ALLIANCE PLAYS A CENTRAL ROLE IN ADVOCATING FOR THE FAIR AND EQUAL TREATMENT OF ALL PEOPLE, REGARDLESS OF THEIR SEXUAL ORIENTATION, GENDER IDENTITY OR GENDER EXPRESSION. Gay AUiance of the Genesee Valley WWW.GAYALLIAN C E. 0 RG

has significant health care bar­ ter Area Society for Health-Sys­ riers. However, I do not think tems Pharmacists. Kevin Eich that we realized at the time how began the evening with an unique this really was. As we informative review of some researched this further, we found basic transgender terminology. that there is little to no infor­ This was followed by Dr. Ash­ mation about the inclusion of ley R. Zuppelli, of WSOP and LGBT topics in pharmacy edu­ AIDS Care, who facilitated an cation. Given the important role impressive presentation on the that medications have in main­ limited coverage of transgender taining the quality of life for health in pharmacy and medi­ transgender individuals, phar­ cal education, identifying barri­ macists will undoubtedly be one ers to health care in transgender of the healthcare providers that patients, promoting transgender­ transgender patients most fre­ friendly environments, the goals quently interact with. So it real­ of hormone therapy and finally ly is up to us to respond to this a review of drug interactions need." and the adverse effects associated Seeking volunteers Front row L-R: Shauna O'Toole, Patti Jones, Noah Wagoner, Realizing the importance of with hormone therapy. and Jason Roberts. Back row L-R: Jeanne Gainsburg, Jennifer getting this info out to more Finally, I facilitated a panel for Gay Pride Mathews, Kevin Eich, Ashley Zuppelli, and Amy Parkhill. schools and more pharmacists, of trained, transgender iden­ Picnic 2012 Dr. Parkhill and Dr. Mathews, tified Gay Alliance Speakers Wegmans School dent who participated in these together with Scott Fearing, Bureau members (Patti Jones, Sunday, July 15, 2012 is of Pharmacy: A classes this past January: Gay Alliance Program Director Jason Robert, Shauna O'Toole THE day to look forward to "I don't think my new found and myself, co-authored a paper and Noah Wagoner) who con­ at Genesee Valley Park, from 1 national leader respect and increased under­ titled "The Need for Transgen­ nected with the audience on a p.m. to 7 p.m. standing for those who under­ der Health Content in the Phar­ personal level, sharing individu­ Ensure your summer fun in Transgender go a gender reassignment will education macy Curriculum," which was al stories, experiences with hor­ by getting involved now in the wane anytime soon. I am very recently published in INNOVA­ mone treatment and thoughts on planning stages for the 2012 Gay grateful that we were able to TIONS in Pharmacy. making pharmacies and medical Pride Picnic. We are planning By Jeanne Gainsburg, Outreach have an open discussion with a number of picnic events, and Coordinator http://www.pharmacy.umn. clinics safe and inclusive for all the panel, and thankful that edu/innovations/prod/groups/ people. our favorite DJs will be back on For the past four years, the they were willing to put them­ cop/@pub/@cop/@innov/ Here are a few comments tap again. Gay Alliance has partnered with selves out there like that. For documents/ article/cop _ arti­ from participants of the March Rochester Pride is a major the Wegmans School of Phar­ those who are ready to be out, I cle_367213.pdf 11 presentation: fundraising event for the Gay macy (WSOP) at St. John Fisher will be glad to be their advocate Dr. Mathews worked with "I didn't expect a topic like Alliance. Proceeds from Pride College to provide presentations and help to further awareness Pharm D candidate Kevin Eich this, but I'm very happy that events financially support the on LG BT issues to the pharmacy and fight against ignorance and to organize a continuing edu­ this CE has taken the bull by Youth, Rochester SAGE, Educa­ students in their classroom. hatred toward them." cation presentation entitled A its horns! Thanks to GAGV for tion/Outreach, Health and Safe­ We were invited in by Assis­ Dr. Parkhill and Dr. Different Point of View: Over­ being involved." ty Programs of the GAGV, and tant Professors Amy Parkhill Mathews concluded that not coming Barriers to Healthcare in "That was the most hum­ The Empty Closet. The proceeds and Jennifer Mathews, who felt only were these classes having Transgender Patients. The pre­ bling and moving CE I have ever also cover the cost of the Pride that LGBT inclusion in their a profound impact on the stu­ sentation was offered on March been to. I literally cried all the events. curriculum was an essential dents, but that WSOP was one 11, to local pharmacists and way home." In order for the Picnic to part of the diversity program for of the only pharmacy programs pharmacy students. Although a A huge thank you goes out to run smoothly, we need approxi­ their pharmacy students. The in the country who were provid­ typical turnout for these pre­ Drs. Parkhill and Mathews, as mately 90 volunteers to make Gay Alliance has been providing ing this type of education. sentations is usually around 40 well as Yantee Slobert, Director a commitment of a minimum two classes a year: one focused Dr. Parkhill stated, ''As we people, this one had over 110 of the Office of Multicultural of two hours. Volunteers begin on basic LGBT issues in the were developing the course, we attendees. Affairs and Diversity Programs arriving at the Park at 7:30 a.m. healthcare setting and the other were excited to include the 'gen­ The presentation was co­ at SJFC, for stepping up to the the morning of the Picnic and completely dedicated to under­ der spectrum' panel because it sponsored by The Wegmans plate on LGBT inclusion at St. do not leave until 8 p.m. or later standing the challenges faced by would provide a unique opportu­ School of Pharmacy, the Gay John Fisher College and beyond in the evening. The tasks cover transgender clients. nity for our students to interact Alliance, the Pharmacy Society and for supporting the work that all aspects of the Picnic - set up, Here is a quote from a stu- with a patient population that of Rochester and the Roches- we do at the Gay Alliance . • tear down, ticket sales and wrist­ banding, trash collection, and parking. Volunteering is easy, and the more hands involved, the lighter the weight of responsibility on anyone person. We need volun­ The Gay Alliance Seeks teers to make pre-picnic phone Pride Volunteers calls, write articles, and contact groups, as well as volunteers on you can help out with two hours of the day of the picnic to carry out vollunteE!rinlg at any Pride event, please go to the tasks that make the picnic _ ••1IV .u"lvii:lllliance.org/pride/volunteer happen. Everyone who volun­ Fill out the form. teers will have fun, meet new ~--~- That's all there is to it! people and get a ticket to the Thank you. Picnic. Thanks to those who have volunteered in the past. We welcome your help again. To volunteer for the 2012 Pride Picnic, please go to http:// www.gayalliance.org/support/ GAGV youth doing a St. Patrick's Day craft, led by Saundra from volunteer and give us your name Rainbow SAGE (front center). On right, Ashley Powers, SAGE intern. Allies welcome! and contact info. Someone will Photo: Jess Cohen contact you within a few days . •

The Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley: is a non-profit agency, dedicated to cultivating a healthy, inclusive environment where lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans-gender (LGBT) people are safe, thriving and enjoying equal rights. We are a coalition of individuals and groups working to empower LGBT people, to affirm their identities, and to create an atmosphere where the diversity of our community can thrive both collectively and separately. We educate and advocate for civil rights for all and for the eradication of homophobia. • Address: 875 East Main Street, Rochester, New York 14605 Hours: Mon.-Fri., 9am-5pm • Phone: (585) 244-8640. Fax: (585) 244-8246. Web: www.gayalliance.org Board President: John Altieri • Executive Director: Sue Cowell • Education and Outreach Director: Scott Fearing Wellness and Safety: Kelly Clark • Outreach: Jeanne Gainsburg • Youth Program Director: Jessica Cohen The Empty Closet: Editor: Susan Jordan • Designer: Jim Anderson Phone: (585) 244-9030 • Fax: (585) 244-8246 • Advertising: (585) 244-9030 • E-mail: [email protected] APRIL 2012 • NUMBER 455 • GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • THE EMPTY CLOSET 31

Program Speaking Engagementsl Notes Tabling for March

Youth Update The Gay Alliance 3/2&3 SpeakOUT Training at the Gay Alliance The GaGa Gay Prom ("Born This 3/5 LGBT Youth Issues at SOAR Youth Group (Monroe Co. Youth Bureau) Way") will be Friday, May 18 from 7-11 offers 3/7 Empowering Ourselves to Speak Out at SUNY Geneseo p.m. at Artisan Works, 565 Blossom Rd. Youth Services 3/8 Rush-Henrietta School District Well ness Fair at the Expo Center Tickets are $10 pre-sale and $15 at the for Rochester area 3/9 LGBT Global Rights at United Nations Association of Rochester door. 3/9 Managing Pride Volunteers at North East Regional Prides (NERP) Tickets can be purchased at the Gay LGBTQ and allied Convention Alliance during Youth Drop-In and Teen youth ages 13-25 Group. To purchase tickets at another 3/10 Building Community at Pride at North East Regional Prides time, please contact Jess to make arrange­ (NERP) Convention ments. (244-8640, ext. 13; JessC@Gay­ Check out what's 3/10 LGBT Health Month Fair at the Radisson Riverside Hotel Alliance.org) Cash and checks only, happening at: 3/11 Overcoming Barriers to Healthcare in Transgender Patients at the please. Cost includes admission and light www.gayalliance.org Wegmans School of Pharmacy at SJFC refreshments. 3/12 Answering Difficult Questions at the Gay Alliance Day of Silence is Friday, April 20! or contact: [email protected] 3/14 LGBT 101 at Compeer Join us in breaking the silence and 3/14 Practicing Your Personal Story at the Gay Alliance celebrating LGBTQ youth voices! The Monday thru Thursday: 3/16 Diversity Education at SUNY Morrisville event will be held at Tilt Nightclub & 3/18 Intergenerational Panel at the First Universalist Church Ultralounge from 4-7 p.m., located at Drop-in hours: 2-6pm 3/20 LGBT Youth Issues at the National Council on Alcoholism & Drug 444 Central Ave. in Rochester. Dependence This space has been graciously donat­ Tuesday Teen Group: ed by Tilt and all alcohol will be removed 3/21 LGBT Youth Issues at St. Joseph's Villa from the club. This event is ONLY open Ages 13-18: 6-7:30pm 3/22 Lion Ray Ernenwein Memorial Community Health, Nutrition and to youth ages 13-23! We are also incred­ Safety Fair at the Sweden/Clarkson Community Center ibly lucky to have Tony-award winner Special Interest: 3/23 LGBT 101 at SUNY Morrisville Levi Kreis performing for us! Check out 3/24 Getting Ready For Medicare, The ABCs of Life Insurance, Transgender Youth, his amazing music at www.levikreis.com. Mediation: What? Why? When?, What the ACLU Can do for The rally, youth performance and Arts/Crafts, Movies, Writing You, Domestic Violence Orders of Protection, Adoption Prep, Levi Kreis concert will run from 4-5 Anti-LGBT Housing Discrimination and Marriage Issues Update at p.m. The Youth Dance will run from the LGBT Legal Expo 5-7 p.m. and will include free depression Special Events: 3/24 LGBT Bullying Issues at the MCC Bullying Conference screening, free/confidential HIV screen­ Youth Dances, Day of Silence, 3/25 Practicing Your Personal Story at the Gay Alliance ing, pizza and soda! This event is FREE! Big Gay Prom, Pool Table, A reminder that Drop-In runs from 3/26 SafeZone Training at Nazareth College 2-6 p.m. Monday through Thursday for LGBTQ Youth Library, 3/26 Who's Who Panel at SJFC all LGBTQ youth and allies ages 13-23. and Internet Access 3/27 Advanced SafeZone Training at Nazareth College Teen Group (ages 13-18 only) runs from 3/27 Advanced SafeZone Training at Nazareth College 6-7:30 every Tuesday! FREE tutoring Fun, friendly, safe adults 3/27 Transgender Issues at First Unitarian Church and homework help are available during 3/28 Intersex Issues at the Leadership Genesee Program drop-in hours! are needed to volunteer 3/28 Transgender Youth Issues at East Rochester Elementary Schools Also, we have some new games for their time and talents, providing 3/30 Safe and Inclusive Campuses at SUNY Morrisville our Wii! Come on by to play Wii Sports positive role models, 3/31 Safe School Summit at the Gay Alliance Resort or the Just Dance games! You can 3/31 LGBT Youth Issues at Threshold Youth Conference challenge Jess and other volunteers to a maybe sharing a talent friendly dance battle! Who knows, their or skill. Evaluations of the Month dance skill may just surprise you (prob­ Contact Jeanne Gainsburg, "I was very impressed with this class. I would (and will) recommend this ably not, but it will be fun to watch them Outreach Coordinator to all my coworkers. I would like to thank the instructor ten-fold! This class try to move!). was very informative, very fun, and I am extremely glad I signed up." for an application: Community Safety Alert: "I hope they know how influential they were. A lot of people, including [email protected] myself, in that room couldn't help but learn so much to take with them new danger in the parks or 585-244-8640, ext. 14. through life and at work." Gay and bi men are asked each year to avoid sexual activities in the parks, since there is danger of gay-bashing, pick up violence, theft and of course arrest. But this year there is a further danger. Community Safety Director Kelly Clark says, "We have received a call On-line from someone who was taken advantage of in a local park. A person was forced Resource Center to give money to a male who photo­ graphed him and threatened blackmail. As the weather is warming, this may continue. There are many reasons not The Gay Alliance Internet Access? to seek sex in the parks. This could have been a violent crime - people could On-Line Resource The Gay Alliance Library be hurt. Not to mention the threat of arrest, fines and publicity." • Directory (GARO) has internet access available The online community tool during library hours: providing local, statewide and Monday & national resources, 24/7 at Wednesday: 6-8pm www.GayAlliance.org.

IHE 20121111EI WIY IElIIIIIIOIIIIIEI mID IEFIIIIIEI ~ I:FI:IIIIEI QND[j) III 1.I.nllli. III 1I11.lc. 1II.lkJlII The computers are part of our David Bohnett Cyber Center 32 THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • NUMBER 455 • APRIL 2012

HIV testing on walk-in basis, Tuesdays, Work http://www.tgender.net; PFLAG Trans­ Wednesdays 1-4pm, provided through NYS­ gender Network http://community.pflag.org/ DOH. Thursdays 1-4pm at Aenon Baptist page.aspx?pid=380; TransActive http://www. Church, 175 Genesee St. transactiveonline.org; The Transitional Male Resources http://www.thetransitionalmale.com/; National Anthony l. Jordan Health Center Prevention & Primary Care Program Center for Transgender Equality http://transe­ Check our monthly and ongoing calendar as well as the community section Provides Medical Case Management, Mental quality.org/; New York Association for Gender Health, Primary Care, HIV Counseling and Test­ Rights Advocacy http://www.nyagra.com/; for more groups and events. For further information, call the Gay Alliance Transgender Aging Network http://forge-for­ at 244-8640 or visit: www.gayalliance.org. And send us your information. ing using the Orasure Rapid Test, Education presentations, and access to other Jordan ser­ ward.org/aging/; Transgender Law Center vices. Prevention & Primary Care is a walk-in http://transgenderlawcenter.org ; Transgender program; no appointments necessary. Office Legal Defense and Education Fund http://trans­ Contact Information: Website: www.acRoches­ hours: Mon.- Fri., 8:30am- 5 pm: extended genderlegal.org/; The Self Made Men http:// BISEXUALITY ter.org. Main Office: 259 Monroe Ave., Roches­ hours on Monday until 8pm. (585) 423-2879; theselfmademen.webs.com/ (please send us ter, NY 14607; Main Phone: 585-545-7200, fax (585) 423-2876. Website: www.jordan­ your favorite sites/groups) ONLINE Health Services After Hours: 585-258-3363; health.org. For more information, call Program Guys Night Out AMBI Los Angeles; American Institute of Bisex­ Case Management After Hours (Lifeline): 585- Director Patrick M. Trevor, (585) 423-2879. Social group for transmen. Third Saturdays, uality (Journal of Bisexuality); Bay Area Bisexual 275-5151; Fax: 585-244-6456. Finger Lakes CDC National STD and AIDS Hotline 1pm, Equal Grounds, 750 South Ave. tguys­ Network; Bi Cafe; Bi Definition: Milwaukee; Office: 605 W. Washington St., Geneva, NY [email protected] BiNet USA; Bisexual Organizing Project (BOP); 14456,315-781-6303. Southern Tier Office: 1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) 24 hours a Biversity Boston; Boston Bisexual Women's 122 Liberty St. Box 624, Bath, NY 14810607- day. TTY service: 1-888-232-6348. E-mail Network; ComBine - Columbus, Ohio; Dallas/ 776-9166. The Health Outreach Project: 416 address: [email protected]. WOMEN Fort Worth Bi Net; Fenway Health's Bi Health Central Ave., Rochester, NY 14605; 585-454- Fair Housing Enforcement Project Highland Hospital Breast Imaging Center Program; Los Angeles Bi Task Force; New York 5556. of Monroe County 500 Red Creek Drive, Rochester 14623; 585- Area Bisexual Network; Robyn Ochs's site; 487-3300. Specializing in breast health, diag­ Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley 585-325-2500; 1-800-669-9777. Deals with Seattle Bisexual Women's Network; The Bi housing discrimination on basis of race, orien­ nostic breast imaging and treatment and Writers Association; The Bisexual Resource Referrals to physicians and service agencies. mammography outreach and education. (585) 244-8640; www.gayalliance.org. tation, HIV status, etc. Center (email [email protected]) Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester Victory Alliance Public Interest law Office of Rochester 80 St. Paul St., Suite 701. Free legal services 840 University Ave.; 585-473-8177; www. CULTURAL University of Rochester Medical Center. One of bccr.org; email: [email protected]. Breast Cancer several research sites worldwide that comprise to HIV positive persons, families. Spanish bilin­ Rochester Women's Community Chorus gual advocates available. All civil cases except Coalition provides support services that include the HIV Vaccine Trials Network. Rochester site programs designed to help those coping with a 234-4441. (See Ongoing calendar). conducts research vaccine studies sponsored divorce; no criminal cases. Ask to speak to someone in PILOR. 454-4060. recent breast cancer diagnosis and those cop­ by National Institutes of Health (NIH). 585-756- ing with an advanced breast cancer diagnosis, DEAF SERVICES 2329; www.vaccineunit.org. Evergreen Health Services, Buffalo such as the Advanced Breast Cancer Support Advocacy for Abused Deaf Victims Threshold Primary care, HIV and family care, HIV testing Group to support women living with metastatic Mailing address: c/o ASADV, P.O. Box 20023, At The Community Place, 145 Parsells Ave., and counseling. (716) 847-0328 breast cancer. Information about breast cancer, Rochester, NY 14602. 24-Hour Hotline: ASAD­ third floor, 585-454-7530. Provides confiden­ Westside Health Services lending library, a monthly educational program. [email protected]; VP: 866-936-8976; TTY/ tial HIV, STD testing and General Health Care, Brown Square Health Center, 175 Lyell Ave. All BCCR programs, support services free. FAX: 585-232-2854. ages 12-25. Sliding fee scale, no one denied, (254-6480); Woodward health Center, 480 Monroe County Women's Health lilac Rainbow Alliance for the Deaf most insurances accepted. Mon., Wed., Fri. Genesee St. (436-3040). HIV/AIDS services, Partnership (lRAD) 9am-5pm; Tues., Thurs., 9am-7pm; Sat. support, more. 111 Westfall Rd., Rochester NY 14692; (585) 1Oam-2pm. wwwThresholdCenter.org Meets second Saturdays, 6-9pm. For location, McCree McCuller Well ness Center at 274-6978. Comprehensive breast cancer information: [email protected] Center for Health and Behavioral Training Unity Health's Connection Clinic screening services for uninsured and underin­ Spectrum lGBTIQ & Straight Alliance of Monroe County (585) 368-3200, 89 Genesee St., Bishop sured women. RIT/NTID student group.

Main St., 1st floor 6-9:30pm, 585-313-3037; E-mail: [email protected]. Facebook: http:// www.facebook.com/L.O.R.A.14464; Website: Ongoing Calendar www.l-o-r-a.com Womyn's Drum Circle Fourth Fridays. 6-9:30pm, GAGV Youth Center; MONDAY WEDNESDAY E-mail: [email protected]; Website: Rainbow SAGE Women's Group Country Line DancinglTwo Stepping www.womynsdrumcircle.org. Last Mondays, 11am-12:30 pm, GAGV Library, Every Wednesday, 140 Alex, 7pm. Lessons fol­ 1st floor next to Youth Center, 875 E. Main St. lowed by dancing until 1Opm, Beginners to [email protected] advanced. SATURDAY Rochester Rams Bar Night Occupy Rochester U.R. Pride Network Third Saturdays, 8pm-2am, Bachelor Forum, M-F, 4-6 pm, at the Liberty Pole. 7:30pm, Gamble Room in Rush Rhees Library. 670 University Ave. 271-6930 urpride@gmaiLcom Born That Way Rochester Trans Group Formerly 3rd Presbyterian LGBT Support Rainbow SAGE Ruby Slippers Social/educational group for gender-variant Group. First, 3rd Mondays, 7:30-9:30pm, 34 Wednesdays, 5:45 pm, Callan-Harris Physical people, friends. Last Saturdays, 3-5 pm, GAGV TUESDAYS Meigs St. Carol, 482-3832 or Kaara, 654- Therapy, 1328 Universty Ave. Youth Center, first floor, 875 E. Main St. Narcotics Anonymous 7516. 6-7:30pm. AIDS and Recovery 1124 Culver Gay Alliance Board of Directors Frontrunners/Frontwalkers Road (Covenant United Methodist Church) This Lilac Squares Meets Third Wednesdays, 6pm, 9am, George Eastman House parking lot.www. is an NA meeting that is open to all addicts who Gay Square Dance Group, Mondays, 7pm, 875 E. Main St. 244-8640 rochesterfrontrunners .org. have a desire to stop using. Although it is not 140 Alex Bar. To reserve space: 467-6456; New Freedom New Happiness Empire Bears Potluck specifically a gay-oriented meeting, it is wel­ [email protected]. AA Gay meeting, 7pm, Unitarian Church, 2nd Saturdays, Gay Alliance Youth Center, 875 coming to people of all sexual orientations and Free syphilis testing 220 Winton Rd. Men and women. Open. E. Main, first floor, Prince St. entrance. 6:30pm gender identities, as well as to anyone who is affected by HIV and AIDS. AIDS Care, 259 Monroe Ave., 5-8pm. 442- Support Group for Parents who have lost greet; 7pm dinner. Bring dish to pass. www. 2220. Children empirebears.org. Rochester Historical Bowling Society First, 3rd Wednesdays, 11am-12:30pm, Cross Dresser Support Group WEDNESDAYS 7:15pm, Mondays. Clover Lanes, Third Presbyterian Church, 4 Meigs St. Gene­ First Saturdays, 6-9pm, call for location: New FreedomlNew Happiness Group 2750 Monroe Ave. (Group is fulL) see Region Home Care. Free. 325-1880 251-2132; RCDNET@hotmaiLcom 7pm. First Unitarian Church, 220 S. Winton Rd. COAP Bus riders: Take the last #18 University bus to HIV Positive Men's Support group Guys Night Out 12 Corners. Use the stop just past the top of Come Out and Play. Wednesday game nights. Third Saturdays. Social group for transguys. Every Monday, 5pm, AIDS Care Center for Pos­ 8-11 pm. Equal=Grounds, 750 South Ave. the hill at Hillside Ave. and before Highland Ave. itive Living, 259 Monroe Ave. 1pm, Equal = Grounds, 750 South Ave. tguys­ Or take the #1 Park Ave. to the corner of East 7pm, [email protected]. [email protected]. Gay Alliance Youth Drop-In Hours and Winton, then walk five minutes south Rochester Rams General Meeting Saturday Night Special Gay AA (uphill) on Winton. This is an open discussion Mondays, Wednesdays, 2-6pm, Gay Alliance 2nd Wednesdays, 7:30pm, Bachelor Forum, Youth Center, 875 E. Main St. Prince St. 7pm, Unitarian Church, 220 Winton Rd., S. meeting. All issues - as they relate to our alco­ 670 University Ave. www.rochesterrams.com holism/addiction and recovery - are fair game. entrance, first floor. 244-8640, x 13. Men and women. Open meeting. Brothers Keeper Lilac Rainbow Alliance for the Deaf Frontrunners/Frontwalkers Support group for men over 30. Third Wednes­ (lRAD) FRIDAYS Mondays, 6pm, George Eastman House park­ days, 5:30-7:30pm, MOCHA Center, 107 lib­ 2nd Saturdays, 6-9pm. rcoaster@rochester. ing lot. www.rochesterfrontrunners.org. erty Pole Way. 420-1400 rr.com Gay Men's 7:30pm. Immanuel Baptist Church, 815 Park Ave. Steps Beyond Stems HIV+ Mixed Men's Group Sophia's Supper Club • Closed meeting, restricted to alcoholics and Crack Support Group, Mondays, 7-8pm, Wednesdays, 11 :30 am-12:30 pm. First and third Saturdays. http://www.inspiritu­ addicts 289 Monroe Ave. AIDS Care, 259 Monroe Ave. al.biz/ online-spiritual-evolution-gro / • Men's meeting Gay Alliance Library & Archives, David Gay Alliance Youth Drop-In Hours • Handicapped accessible Bohnett Cyber Center Mondays, Wednesdays, 3-7pm, Gay Alliance This is a round-robin discussion meeting. If you Every Monday. 6-8pm. First floor, Youth Center, 875 E. Main St. Prince St. SUNDAY are shy about meeting people or speaking up in 875 E. Main St. 244-8640. entrance, first floor. 244-8640 x 13. Parents Families & Friends of lesbians a group, you will find this meeting particularly and Gays (PFlAG) warm and inviting because everyone gets their Equality Rochester Frontrunners/Frontwalkers Third Sundays, 1-3 pm. Open Arms MCC, 740 turn to speak (or pass). As a result, this meet­ 2nd Mondays, 7-8:30 pm, Equal=Grounds. 6pm, Eastman House parking lot. Marshall Rd. 244-8640 ext 27; PFLAG@gayal­ ing often runs long, so plan on more than the 426- 0862; annetischer1 @gmail.com www.rochesterfrontrunners.org. liance.org. usual hour. Gay Alliance Library & Archives, David Gay Alliance Library & Archives, David Bohnett Cyber Center Bohnett Cyber Center SATURDAYS TUESDAY Every Wednesday. 6-8pm. First floor, Just Us Guys Sunday hours ended. First floor, 875 E. Main Saturday Night Special 875 E. Main St. 244-8640. St. 244-8640. Gay men of all ages. 2nd Tuesdays, 6:30pm, 7pm. First Unitarian Church, 220 S. Winton Rd. Empire Bears Come Out Dancin' Bus riders: The #18 University Ave. bus does AIDS Care, 259 Monroe Ave. 223-2629 Every Wednesday. 6pm dinner at The Win­ First, Third Sundays. 3-5pm, Friends Meeting­ not go by the church on weekend evenings. Charlie's Group tonaire. www.empirebears.com house, 84 Scio St., entry on Charlotte St. $5. 2nd Tuesdays. Monthly peer-facilitated support Take the #1 Park Ave. bus to the corner of East group for married men who have sex with men. Rochester General Assembly and Winton, then walk five minutes south Confidential, free. For time, place: email: char­ THURSDAY Sundays, Flying Squirrel Community Center, (uphill) on Winton. [email protected]. 285 Clarissa St. • Open meeting, all are welcome, "straight­ Presbyterians for lesbian and Gay friendly" MOCHA Youth Drop-In Concerns Unity Fellowship Church 6:30pm, first Thursday. Ralph, 271-7649 • Mixed men and women Tues.-Fri., 1-9pm, MOCHA Center, Sundays, 1:30 pm, Lutheran Church of Peace, • Handicapped accessible, take elevator to 107 Liberty Pole Way, 420-1400; 244-8640 Queer Radical Reading Group 125 Caroline St., 14620. 520-6188. basement First and third Thursdays, 7pm, Dignity-Integrity Meeting begins with a speaker, followed by MOCHA Hepatitis Clinic Equal=Grounds, 750 South Ave. open discussion. Free Hepatitis A & B vaccinations, third Tues­ 1st Sunday: 5pm Episcopal Eucharist with days, 5:30-7pm, 107 Liberty Pole Way, 420- Pride at Work music; 2nd Sunday: 5pm Roman Catholic Liturgy 1400 First Thursdays, 5:30pm. 167 Flanders St. of the Word with music; 3rd Sunday: 5pm Epis­ SUNDAYS off Thurston Rd. 426-0862. copal Eucharist (quiet); 4th Sunday: 5pm Prayers Women's Community Chorus to start the week, followed by potluck supper. Step in the Right Direction Rehearsals each Tuesday, 6:30-9pm, Down­ GlOB&l (Gays & lesbians of Bausch & 7:30-9pm. 1275 Spencerport Road (Trinity Alli­ lomb). Open Arms Metropolitan Community ance Church) This is an NA meeting that is town United Pres. Church, 121 N. Fitzhugh Church Street. 234-4441, www.therwcc.org Meets every third Thursday in Area 67 confer­ open to all addicts who have a desire to stop ence room at the Optic Center. Voice mail : 740 Marshall Rd., Chili, 10:30am, 271-8478 using. Although it is not specifically a gay-ori­ Free HIV Testing 338-8977 Gay Men's Alcoholics Anonymous ented meeting, it is welcoming to people of all 9am-7pm. AIDS Care, 259 Monroe Ave. sexual orientations and gender identities. Each Rochester Gay Men's Chorus St. Luke's/St. Simon Cyrene Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St. 8:30pm, 232-6720, Weekly. week features a reading from NA literature, fol­ Downtown United Presbyterian Church, lowed by discussion. 121 N. Fitzhugh St. 6:30-9pm, 423-0650 Closed meeting Rainbow SAGE Rochester Gay Men Go to: Free confidential walk-in HIV testing 8pm. St. Luke/St. Simon's Episcopal Church, Every Thursday night, 5-8pm, AIDS Care, First Sundays: Euchre Club, 3-6pm. Third Sun­ 259 Monroe Ave. 442-2220 days, Potluck at First Universalist Church, 150 17 S. Fitzhugh Street. Bus riders use the The Empty Closet S. Clinton Ave., 4pm. Fitzhugh Street stop on Main Street at the Coun­ MOCHA/Gay Alliance Youth Trans Group ty Office Building and walk south one block. First Thursdays, 5-7pm, Gay Alliance Youth Men's Cooking Group pages at www. Third or fourth Sundays, 355-7664. • Closed meeting, restricted to alcoholics and Center, 875 E. Main St., 1st floor (Prince St. addicts entrance). 244-8640 ext 13. Civil Rights Front • Men's meeting GayAliiance.org to Second Thursdays Every Tuesday, 5pm, Equal=Grounds, 750 • NOT handicapped accessible Social/business networking, 5:30-7:30pm. South Ave. http://www.civilrightsfront.word­ Meeting begins with a speaker, followed by find the latest news, Changing venues. E-mail: fingerlakes@outand­ press.com open discussion. equaLorg resources, events! downtown Rochester that is Friend Empty Closet Gay Men's AA meeting welcominf( Fridays, 7:30-8:30pm, Closed meeting. At Washingtom Square to all!" Emmanuel Baptist Church, 815 Park Ave. 585 232-7140 'l. News on Facebook >~ GlBTQI Motorcycle Group www.stmarysrochester.org and follow us on Second Fridays, 5:30pm, Various locations. [email protected]; 467- LITURGIES 6456; [email protected]. Sat: 4pm - Sun: 10:30am Twitter! l.O.R.A. Potluck & Games Night Fourth Fridays. GAGV Youth Center, 875 E. 34 THE EMPTY CLOSET • THE GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • NUMBER 455 • APRIL 2012

MONDAY 16 Empty Closet deadline for May issue. 244-9030; [email protected]. FRIDAY 20 Day of Silence rally, youth dance. Tilt, 444 Central Ave., 4-7 pm. Levi Kreis performs. Youth 13-23 only. Info: Jess, 244-8640 ext 13; [email protected]. SUNDAY 1 SATURDAY 21 Classified ads are $5 for the first 30 words; each additional 10 words is another Floral presentation. The incredibly Vagina Monologues. Proceeds to $1. We do not bill for classifieds, so please send or bring ad and payment to: The rare Stinking Corpse plant is flowering at Rape Crisis and the women and girls of Empty Closet, 875 E. Main Street, Suite 500, Rochester, NY 14605. Paying by Cornell. Join in as community members Haiti. Info at www.vday.com. check: checks must be made out to Gay Alliance or GAGV. The deadline is the 15th present corsages to area anti-gay politi­ Dyke Picnic Kick Off Party @ of the month, for the following month's issue. We cannot accept ads over the cians! looflirpa.com. 140 Alex. 6-10 pm, 140 Alexander St. phone. Pay when you place your ad. We will accept only ads accompanied by name No Foolin'. ComeoutDancin', Upstairs room. and phone number. Neither will be published, but we must be able to confirm Friends Meetinghouse, 84 Scio St. 3-5 SUNDAY 22 placement. The Empty Closet is not responsible for financial loss or physical injury pm. $5. [email protected]; Dignity Integrity. Evening Prayer, 585-244-8640. that may result from any contact with an advertiser. Advertisers must use their followed by a Potluck Supper. St. Luke/ Dignity Integrity. Episcopal Mass/ own box number, voice mail, e-mail or personal address/phone number. St. Simon Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St., 5 Healing Service, with music. St. Luke/St. pm. http://www.di-rochester.orgl) or DI Simon Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St., 5 pm. summer. Call to arrange estimate. 585- Hotline at 585-234-5092. PERSONALS http://www.di-rochester.orgl) or DI Hot­ Politically progressive Lesbian 454-2808. line at 585-234-5092. THURSDAY 26 Women Seniors interested in RPO con­ Martin Ippolito master electrician. Community Place fundraiser. certs, Erie Canal walks, bird watching; Electrical work, telephone jacks, cable THURSDAY 5 Woodcliff Hotel & Spa 6 p.m. Live jazz, news and current affairs conversation, call TV, burglar alarm systems, paddle fans. RGMC voice placements, first rehears­ food, silent auction, reverse raffle. Tickets al. 6:30 pm, Downtown United Presbyte­ Cat 585-732-7149. $100/person or $800 for table of eight. 585-266-6337. rian Church, 121 N. Fitzhugh St. Info: 585-224-2601 or e-mail kallen-caballe­ SERVICES World renowned weddings. 42 years www.thergmc.org, or (585) 423-0650. [email protected] Rochester's Best Man to Man performing same sex commitments, now FRIDAY 6 SATURDAY 28 Rubdown. Unwind with this degreed, marriages (it's about time!). Nancy BB employed, fit, friendly, healthy, Italian Meyer minister, God is Love-Animals are NTID/RIT ColorFEST 2012. LGBT Rochester Trans Group. "Summit" Deaf students' conference. Opening cer­ GWM. Middle aged, 5'8", 165 lbs., 32" with transgender groups from Buffalo and Angels ministry. 585-733-6213. emony, gallery exhibit, workshops, social, waist, nonsmoker, d & d free, HIV nega­ WNY. 3-5:30 pm, GAGV Youth Center, Hate to paint or clean gutters? I have performing arts, more. Open to all. http:// tive. My lO-plus years experience guar­ first floor, 875 E. Main St. 244-8640. tall ladders! Dale's Pleasure Painting and www.rit.edu/spectrum. antees your relaxation and satisfaction. Butch Femme Connection. Meet Gutter Cleaning has very reasonable rates Gallery at Equal=Grounds art show Hotel visit, in call in my home or out call East Ridge Family Restaurant, E. Ridge for painting year-round and gutter clean­ opening. "Seasons of Change" by Allison in your residence. Reasonable rates. Dis­ Rd. in Irondequoit, 7 pm. ing in the spring or fall. 585-576-5042. ]. Nichols. 7-9 pm, 750 South Ave. cretion appreciated and practiced. Don't Brian O'Neill art show opening. SUNDAY 29 delay, call me today at 585-773-2410 (cell) Email [email protected]. "The Bridge Between Two Worlds." Arts Dignity Integrity. Evening Prayer, or 585-235-6688 (home) or e-mail me at: Treat yourself to a very soothing, & Cultural Council, 277 N. Goodman, special program by Mary Ellen and Casey [email protected]. relaxing massage by a licensed massage 5-9 pm. benefits AIDS Care. Lopata of Fortunate Families. St. Luke/St. Interior painting/wall repair by therapist. Massage reduces stress and can Beth Bailey art show opening. Gal­ Simon Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St., 5 pm. John Walsh. 25 years experience, neat, enhance your wellbeing. Convenient cen­ lery Salon & Spa, 780 University Ave. http://www.di-rochester.orgl) or DI Hot­ clean, efficient. Booking now for spring/ trallocations. Call John at 585-314-0197. 6:30-9:30 pm. line at 585-234-5092. SATURDAY 7 MONDAY 30 ROMANS nude volleyball. 585-281- Beltain, May Eve. Ancient Celtic Fire Introducing a new comic feature 4964 or email www.wnyromans.com. Feast celebration of spring, sexuality, renew­ SUNDAY 8 al of life force. Sacred tree: Willow. • by Justin Hubbell Dignity Integrity. Special Easter Sun­ day Service, with music; mass conducted by Rev. Michael Hopkins. St. Luke/St. I. REAllY WA NT :IRA GLASS rHEtV I WAN1 THEM TO Simon Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St., 5 pm. MAKE A http://www.di-rochester.orgl) or DI Hot­ 8. J"AD ABuMRAD TO GET Jt1AW BABY.;- line at 585-234-5092. T06ETHEA. ... Bullied: Teen Stories from Genera­ tion PRX at 9 pm on WXXI AM 1370 FM-HD 91.5-2. TUESDAY 10 Just Us Guys. Yoga, Tai Chi and Qi Gong basics. 6 pm, lower level conference Lake Avenue room, AIDS Care, 259 Monroe Ave. Ron at 729-2259 or email rmatter1@rochester. Baptist Church rr.com. THURSDAY 12 Out & Equal monthly Second Thurs­ An LGBT day social networking at the Bachelor Forum, 670 University Ave. 5:30-7:30 Affirming HER NA~E WOULD 8e: "JAF.A" AND ASK -rilE MOST pm. AND SUE' WOULO HA"E iHE MOS,T E.NGAG'rN6 QuesTIoNS. Out for Justice Workshop. Adoption Church SOOTflXNu, PAS$"rVE vozer: and Custody, with Jennifer Gravitz, attor­ '%N THe ClNrVERSE! ney. 6-8 pm, GAGV Youth Center, first floor, 875 E. Main St. 244-8640 ext 19; [email protected]. Invites You! FRIDAY 13 Kate Clinton "All Fracked Up" 10:00 AM: Tour. Presented by ImageOut. 8:30 pm, Sunday morning worship service Hochstein Performance Hall. $30 in advance, $35 at door. Schmooze with 11 :15 AM: A Time for Fellowship Kate at VIP reception, 7 pm, $60. Tickets at www.imageout.org, Equal=Grounds, Outlandish. 11 :30 am: Adult Education SATURDAY 14 Butch Femme Connection. Meet 7 Childcare & Sunday School for pm, Cracker Barrel, Hylan Drive in Hen­ rietta. children are available. Erotic Night at Equal=Grounds. "Spring Fever." 750 South Ave., 8 pm. Lake Avenue Baptist SUNDAY 15 ComeoutDancin' at Friends Meet­ Church is located just off Lake inghouse, 84 Scio St. 3 pm-5 pm. $5. Avenue near the stop light at 145 Lake [email protected] or call Avenue. 585-244-8640. Dignity Integrity. Quiet Episcopal Mass in the Chapel. St. Luke/St. Simon www.lakeavebaptist.org Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St., 5 pm. http:// www.facebook.com/pages/Lake www.di-rochester.orgl) or DI Hotline at -Ave-Baptist-Church 585-234-5092. See more comics at justinhubbell.com APRIL 2012 • NUMBER 455 • GAY ALLIANCE OF THE GENESEE VALLEY • THE EMPTY CLOSET 35

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