Breakout Singer Allie X To Hit Detroit
Singer Talks LGBT Community, Genre-Bending & Resisitng The Thrall of LA – SEE PAGE 26
WWW.PRIDESOURCE.COM Love v. Johnson: Is The Judge Sympathetic?
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Tough Blow: Houston Repeals Anti- Discrimination Ordinance
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Voices For & Against LGBT Ballot Initiative Weigh In
PAGE 12 Lisa Lampanelli Talks Eating Issues, Feeling Sorry For The Kardashians And Ridding Herself Of Hate November 12, 2015 PAGE 22 VOL. 2346 | FREE
“No one’s rights should be subject to a popular vote. It is insulting, it is demeaning and it is just wrong.”
– Houston Mayor Annise Parker said opponents of the ordinance ran a “calculated campaign of lies designed to demonize a little understood minority.”
See Story Page 10
COVER STORY 22 Lisa Lampanelli goes from mean to serene
NEWS ONLINE BODY & FITNESS ELECTIONS WEDDING BELLS 4 State will pay for same-sex marriage fight 6 Love V. Johnson Judge seems sympathetic 7 2015 election results 8 Pugh Trial reaches conclusion 10 Houston delivers tough blow with ordinance repeal 11 Reflection prompted after Houston’s nondiscrimination measure defeat 15 Mormon Church issues rules aimed at LGBT members, their kids 16 HRC, Partnership For Drug-Free Kids to prevent LGBT teen substance abuse FALL BODY & FITNESS Tying the knot for Deb Dysert and Ann Cox Punting with Pride OPINION The developing world of sexual therapy See page 19 12 Parting Glances Positive Thoughts 12 Viewpoint: Maybe we’re missing the point Addressing LGBT health disparities Winners and Losers 13 Viewpoint: It’d better to be pissed off than HAPPENINGS Kicking Detroit’s smoking habit See page 7 pissed on Getting and staying sober 13 Transmissions: The Tip 13 Viewpoint: The GLBT 11th Commandment 16 Creep of the Week: Kevin Swanson LIFE 26 Allie X marks the spot 28 Happenings 29 Screen Queen 32 Deep Inside Hollywood 33 Puzzle See Cool Cities Ferndale, page 24 33 A Couple of guys
VOL. 2346 • NOVEMBER 12, 2015 • ISSUE 939 EDITORIAL CREATIVE ADVERTISING & SALES ONLINE AT Editor in Chief Webmaster & MIS Director Director of Sales PRIDE SOURCE MEDIA GROUP Susan Horowitz, 734.293.7200 x 12 Kevin Bryant, [email protected] Jan Stevenson, 734.293.7200 x 22 “Between The Lines Newspaper” 20222 Farmington Rd., Livonia, Michigan 48152 [email protected] [email protected] Phone 734.293.7200 Contributing Writers Entertainment Editor Charles Alexander, Michelle E. Brown, Sales Representatives Follow us @YourBTL PUBLISHERS Chris Azzopardi, 734.293.7200 x 24 Emell Derra Adolphus, Todd Heywood, Jason Ann Cox, 734.293.7200 x 13 Susan Horowitz & Jan Stevenson [email protected] Michael, Jerome Stuart Nichols, Gwendolyn [email protected] Ann Smith, Christopher J. Treacy Email your op–eds to MEMBER OF Assistant Editor Donelle Kremke, 734.293.7200 x 16 [email protected] Michigan Press Assoication Shelby Clark Petkus, [email protected] Cartoonists [email protected] National Gay Media Association Paul Berg, Dave Brousseau National Advertising Representative Sign up online to receive our E–Digest Q Syndicate Calendar Editor Shelby Clark Petkus, [email protected] Contributing Photographers Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 Andrew Potter Staff Writers Our rate cards are available online. All material appearing in Alexander Godin Between The Lines is protected by federal copyright law and AJ Trager, [email protected] may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publishers. Between The Lines is supported by many fine advertisers, but we cannot accept responsibility for claims made Copyright 2015 Pride Source Media Group, LLC by our advertisers, nor can we accept responsibility for materials provided by advertisers or their agents. www.PrideSource.com Nov. 12, 2015 | BTL 3 BRIEFS Committee Votes State Will Possible Hate Crime, Pay For Same-Sex Marriage Homicide In Madison Heights Fight, Not Schuette MADISON HEIGHTS – Sometime on Halloween night, police say a killer entered LANSING – The state House the home of Fernando Gonzales, strangled Appropriations Committee voted directly him and then set the house on fire. on party lines Nov. 5 in favor of Attorney Madison Heights Deputy Police Chief General Bill Schuette’s Legislative Transfer Corey Haines told the Daily Tribune Nov. Request 2015-8, which will transfer 2 that Gonzales “led an alternative lifestyle” reimbursement funds to Schuette’s office and that “the possibility exists this could to pay for his failure in the marriage equality have been motivated by a hate crime, that’s case. Schuette’s fight against marriage one of the possibilities we’re looking at.” equality cost state taxpayers $2 million in Gonzales, 59, worked as a hair stylist legal fees. out of his home and had lived in Madison State Rep. Adam Zemke, D-Ann Arbor, Heights for 15 years. Gonzales was seen served on the committee and offered a by strangers passing out candy earlier in motion that would have blocked the transfer the evening. of funds, a move that would have forced Police and firefighters arrived on the Schuette’s hand to take the money from his scene and considered the blaze suspicious. own funds. Police say the killer stole Gonzales’ black “I’m disappointed members of the Accura and the garage door was left open. Appropriations Committee gave their tacit The vehicle was later recovered Nov. 2 support today for this waste of taxpayer about a mile away in a shopping center money,” Zemke said in a statement. “There parking lot. are dozens of more significant and necessary Police have identified no suspect at this areas to which this money could be applied. time but Haines believes Gonzales knew his We owe it to our constituents to use a funding killer fairly well, since there appeared to be allotment of this magnitude appropriately. no signs of forced entry. It is not the responsibility of Michiganders Madison Heights police are seeking tips to reimburse the Attorney General for this as they continue their investigation. Anyone wasted use of funds. It should not be on the with information is asked to call police at backs of Michigan taxpayers that he chose 248-585-2100. to be on the wrong side of equality.” The state agreed to pay out a total of $1.9 million in legal fees to the near 5,420-plus Indiana Chamber Backs labor hours the legal team put into the case, billed at $350 per hour. The legal team Statewide Gay Rights took on the case pro-bono with none of the Protections initial attorneys expecting the case to climb through the courts to reach SCOTUS. INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – The Indiana “Despite calling himself a fiscal Chamber of Commerce is calling on conservative, Bill Schuette went to the lawmakers and Republican Gov. Mike Legislature to ask for a bailout for his own Pence to expand state civil rights laws failure before the U.S. Supreme Court,” to include sexual orientation and gender said Lonnie Scott, executive director of identity during the coming legislative Progress Michigan. “Today’s vote is further session. proof that Attorney General Bill Schuette The statewide business group announced expects Michigan taxpayers to foot the Nov. 5 that its board of directors voted bill for his quixotic crusades against the “overwhelmingly” to endorse that step people of Michigan. Rather than stand on during its annual fall meeting. the side of equality with Michigan families, Indiana Chamber President Kevin Schuette chose the path of discrimination Brinegar says the expanded protections are and intolerance and now everyone has to needed to improve the state’s future business pay for his political gamesmanship.” competitiveness after the national backlash Carole Stanyar, who spent a grand total to the state’s religious objections law that of 2,182 total hours on the case, received Pence signed in March. a payout of $763,875; Dana Nessel will The chamber board is comprised of more receive a payout of $407,785 for 1,165 than 100 business executives and civic hours; Kenneth Mogill, 1,011 hours for leaders. The group says Indiana will suffer $353,920; Robert Sedlar, 237 hours for if steps are not taken to secure the state’s $83,160; Mary Bonauto, 796 hours for reputation as a hospitable and welcoming $278,845; and Vickie Henry, with less than place. a week, for $11,235.
4 BTL | Nov. 12, 2015 www.PrideSource.com
Love v Johnson Judge Seems Sympathetic To ACLU Argument
BY AJ TRAGER 40 percent of those who DETROIT– Lawyers from the ACLU and the ACLU of Michigan presented ID that didn’t argued Nov. 4 before Federal Judge Nancy Edmunds against a state match their gender identity policy set in 2011 by Secretary of State Ruth Johnson that prevents or gender expression many transgender men and women reported being harassed. from correcting the gender on their driver’s licenses and other forms of identification. Edmunds appeared to be extremely their lives.” sympathetic to the ACLU argument, Grill quickly fell under the court’s recognizing that the gender identity critical eye again when he theorized and the legal gender marker of that a trans man or woman could get trans men and women should be an affidavit on the day they question consistent and that Michigan is the their gender identity. only state in the union to have such “You want to trivialize it by saying strict regulations on amending birth they could get an affidavit on day certificates. one,” Edmunds said to Grill. Arguing for the six plaintiffs were Edmunds is currently deciding the Director of the LGBT and AIDS if she will honor the state’s request Project of the ACLU of Illinois, John to dismiss the case. Her response Knight, and Deputy Legal Director is expected the second week of of the ACLU of Michigan, Dan November. Korobkin. Arguing on behalf of the Back row: Jacki Anderson plaintiff’s council from Proskauer Rose; Tina Seitz, plaintiff; Dan Korobkin; Mike Derksen, plaintiff’s council from “She seemed most sympathetic to Proskauer Rose; Michael J. Steinberg, legal director ACLU of Michigan; and Rebecca Veal of the ACLU Trans Advocacy Project. Front the privacy argument,” Knight told state was Assistant Attorney General row: Amy Hunter, ACLU Trans Advocacy Project; John Knight; Jay Kaplan, ACLU of Michigan special projects attorney; Nicole Tacey, for the state of Michigan, Erik Grill. ACLU Trans Advocacy Project; Crystal Hubbard, ACLU Trans Advocacy Project; and Phillip Hubbard, husband to Crystal Hubbard. BTL after the hearing. “I think the The ACLU filed the lawsuit in May BTL Photo: AJ Trager case went well in the sense that the of this year on behalf of six Michigan judge certainly was sympathetic to residents. Current Michigan law individual privacy interest threats gender confirmation surgery, for serious risk the issues. She knew the arguments states than an individual must have of bodily harm that centered on a example, or if they are on day one Along with arguing that the and she understands how important their birth certificate amended to generalized or perceived threat of of hormones. reveal of personal information is a it is. So there isn’t much more we reflect their gender in order for harm. The state tied in the cases In that same study conducted by violation of constitutional rights, can hope for aside from that. I am documents such as a driver’s license to argue that when discussing the the NCTE and the NGLTF, only 33 the ACLU also argued that being very pleased.” to be changed as well. inconsistency of gender expression percent of trans men and women forced to disclose such personal The plaintiffs are represented by While some states have laws that and a gender marker on a license, it report having undergone gender information compels people to Jay Kaplan, LGBT special projects allow for individuals to amend their is in fact “third parties (that do the confirmation surgery. While 59 speak or communicate something attorney for the ACLU of Michigan; birth certificates with a court order, most harm) and how they interpret percent of respondents reported that is private and thus is an equal Knight; Korobkin; Michael J. Michigan refuses to change the that status.” updating the gender marker on protection violation and a violation Steinberg, legal director of the gender marker on a birth certificate According to a study produced by their driver’s license or state ID, of free speech rights. ACLU of Michigan; and Steven until the individual has undergone the National Center for Transgender 41 percent live without an ID that Knight argued that the policy Gilford, Michael Derksen and Jacki sexual reassignment surgery and can Equality and the National Gay matches their gender identity. has an additional constitutional Anderson from the Chicago office provide a letter of completion signed and Lesbian Task force titled This presents some serious violation: since Michigan residents of Proskauer Rose LLP. by a medial physician. “Injustice at Every Turn: A Report problems, as the ACLU of Michigan are forced to have a particular of the National Transgender discussed in their arguments in operation done that they may or may Read the ACLU official complaint The state was the first to address against the state at www.aclumich.org/ the court. Directly following Grill’s Discrimination Survey,” 40 percent court. By changing the legal gender not want in order to get an accurate sites/default/files/Love_v_Johnson_ opening arguments, which included of those who presented ID that marker, Knight argued, trans men license, it violates their due process, IDpolicy_Complaint052115.pdf. the state’s statute on requiring didn’t match their gender identity and women would be granted as well. And finally, Knight argued which information is on the driver’s or gender expression reported being consistency, which is currently being that in respect to individuals who license and a description about the harassed; 15 percent report being denied to them. Current Michigan moved to Michigan from states that proposed change adding “subjective asked to leave an establishment with policy also forces residents to out do not allow for amendments to birth CALL TO ACTION information to the license,” Judge 3 percent reporting being assaulted their status whenever they show their certificates such as Ohio, it makes Edmunds responded sternly. or attacked. license which is a clear violation that it impossible for these individuals The ACLU of Michigan has provided “You need to address substantive The state then asked the court puts people at risk, Knight argued. to achieve consistency on their due process,” she said to Grill and “at what point do we consider a “We had to show our IDs to get documents. a letter template for any Michigan explained that focusing on the sex change” and reflected on the into this building, for example,” “This is a claim of a different resident who wants to be actively interest of the state is “not the least spectrum that is gender expression Knight pointed out. dimension,” Edmunds said to involved in this matter. Visit http:// and at what point Michigan residents Edmunds found this particular Grill during the state’s follow up bit helpful to talk about.” gaybe.am/idp for more information are constitutionally entitled to a argument compelling in that it testimony discussing how and when The state brought up two cases: and to send a letter to one referencing the outing of a change in their gender marker violates people’s constitutional right a resident files a medical records Secretary of State Ruth Johnson. rape victim and the second about based on what treatments they to privacy and does so by revealing affidavit. “This is more than male or have undergone, if they have had information that could put them at female, this is about how they live
6 BTL | Nov. 12, 2015 www.PrideSource.com 2015 Election Results: Some Losers, Some Winners For LGBT Community BY AJ TRAGER
Michigan voters came out to the polls Nov. 3 to vote on a number of proposals and elected official positions. Based on the results of the vote, big change is set to stir up Lansing and Kalamazoo, and Southfield will welcome its first openly gay mayor. Kenson Siver won the bid for Southfield Mayor with 57 percent of the votes over former city commissioner Sylvia Johnson. Siver’s background includes 14 years as a city councilman and 45 years as a teacher and administrator at Southfield Public Schools. Campaign signs for Siver were littered with anti-gay graffiti late last month with phrases Kenson Siver won the bid for Southfield Mayor such as “fag,” “rapist” and “racist.” Southfield police say they nabbed the campaign sign vandal. In very surprising news, Mayor of East Lansing Nathan Triplett lost his bid for a third term on the East Lansing City Council and thus his position as mayor. The council was seeking to fill three seats. Triplett, the only incumbent on the ballot, finished fourth and lost his council seat to former state Rep. Mark Meadows, Shanna Draheim and Erik Altmann. The mayor and mayor pro-tem positions are appointed by the elected council. “Tonight’s result wasn’t what we had hoped for. I’d like to wish the Council members-elect the best of luck as they take office later this month,” Triplett said on his Facebook after the results came in. “While I won’t be seated at the City Council Shannon Sykes will serve on the Kalamazoo City table come Nov. 17, you can all rest assured that Commission. Sykes, 33, served as the African- I’ll do all I can to keep East Lansing moving American constituency director for state Rep. Jon Hoadley, D-Kalamazoo, in his 2014 campaign and forward,” he continued. currently serves as board member of CARES, an HIV/ Former executive director of Equality AIDS service organization in Southwest Michigan. Michigan, Emily Dievendorf, lost her bid for a position on the Lansing City Council to incumbent Carol Wood followed by Patricia Spitzley. “This was a community supported and driven campaign,” Dievendorf said on her campaign page. “Together, we proposed a positive and lasting future for Lansing – and while I will not be able to advance it from the City Council – I know that all of us are in this for the long haul.” Michigan State Director for Enroll America, Erin Knott, won her bid for Kalamazoo City Commissioner and received 3,961 votes. Knott is a longtime progressive and LGBT activist. Joining Knott on the Kalamazoo City Commission is Shannon Sykes who received 3,604 votes. Sykes, 33, served as the African- Bay City voters elected their first openly gay man to the Bay City Commission. David Terrasi American constituency director for state Rep. Jon Hoadley, D-Kalamazoo, in his 2014 the 2nd Ward Bay City Commission. Terrasi, campaign and currently serves as board member 46, married his partner of 12 years this year of CARES, an HIV/AIDS service organization following the decision by the U.S. Supreme in Southwest Michigan. Court. He has 20 years experience as a school Bay City voters elected their first openly gay psychologist with the Saginaw Intermediate man to the Bay City Commission. David Terrasi School District and works as an adjunct is to replace Commissioner Elizabeth Peters to instructor at Saginaw Valley State University. www.PrideSource.com Nov. 12, 2015 | BTL 7 NEWS Pugh Trial: A Recap In ‘Sexual Grooming’ Case Jayne And April DeBoer Officially BY JASON A. MICHAEL In his videotaped testimony, Pugh weekly in people’s swimming pools. admitted he was wrong to have “I just walked around, basically, where Adopt Their Five Children DETROIT – The long awaited approached Sanford the way that he my feet led me,” Sanford said. Charles Pugh trial – for sexual grooming, did, to have sent him the text messages Closing arguments in the case took BY AJ TRAGER as the mainstream media calls it – finally and to have asked for a video of his place Monday morning and by the took place last week. Though Pugh, former mentee masturbating. But he afternoon the case had gone to the jury PONTIAC – In an unforgettable and long-awaited day quite noticeably, was absent from the was adamant that Sanford knew exactly for deliberation. Sanford’s attorney, in their family history, Jayne and April DeBoer formally proceedings. Now living in New York, what he was doing and that he caused William Seikaly, asked the jury to award adopted all five of their children Nov. 12 in Oakland County Pugh was not required to appear in him no harm. his client at least $1.5 million. Circuit Court. person since he currently resides more “He’s not a minor,” Pugh said. “He’s “Anything less than $750,000 and Mr. “Today is a historic day in the life of the DeBoer-Rowse than 100 miles away from the city. an adult. It’s not like he’s 9 years old. Pugh will go to some fancy restaurant in family, all five of our kids will finally have two legal, equal Though his testimony was show via He’s grown.” Manhattan and have a toast to victory,” parents!!!!!,” Jayne wrote on her Facebook page. “We are video tape, it was a risky gamble on Pugh also adamantly denied ever Seikaly told the jury. so happy and grateful to all of those who supported us and Pugh’s part not to return to Detroit and touching the former student, who had That claim is rather suspect, however. helped us get to this wonderful day!” face his accuser directly. “He is wrong previously claimed Pugh put his hand Pugh was last reported to be living The hearing was before Judge Karen McDonald. that his lack of attendance is irrelevant,” on his leg while he was sitting in Pugh’s in a modest Brooklyn apartment and “I’m very honored,” she said just before finalizing the U.S. District Judge David Lawson city owned sedan. working as a waiter. No matter the adoption documents. wrote in an order excusing Pugh from “I’m positive I did not touch him,” outcome, Pugh’s career has been ruined Jayne and April have been together for over a decade and appearing. “Pugh’s voluntary absence Pugh said. “He’s wrong. If I touched and his earning potential substantially were the plaintiff couple in the DeBoer v. Snyder case, which from trial – thereby depriving the jury him, why didn’t he say anything? To diminished. challenged the same-sex marriage ban in the state. They of one of the tools it might have used me? To his mom? It conveniently came The jury in the Charles Pugh civil sought to joint-adopt their children but were denied their to assess his credibility – is relevant to up later … I didn’t touch him and he trial returned late Monday afternoon due process under the law since Michigan law prevents any the issues in this case.” knows I didn’t touch him.” after just four and a half hours having couple from jointly adopting a child if they are not married. Opening statements were made in In addition to Pugh, others who decided to award Pugh’s accuser, Their case went all the way through the federal court the case on Nov. 3. The following day, testified in the trial included the Madison Sanford, $250,000 – a sum far less than system to land a hearing before the U.S. Supreme Court an announcement was made that the Heights police offer who took Sanford’s the $1.5 million Sanford’s attorney had earlier this year. Following a hearing in June, SCOTUS Detroit Public Schools – Pugh’s co- statement after his attorney convinced asked for. The jury dismissed Sanford’s declared that states’ bans on same-sex marriages were defendant in the case – had settled with him to file a police report and a former claim of sexual harassment, but having unconstitutional and made marriage equality the law of the Pugh’s accuser, now 20-year-old Khody colleague of Pugh’s from radio station apparently decided to believe Sanford’s land. Sanford, for the sum of $350,000. This WJLB who claimed Pugh had bragged assertion that Pugh put his hand on The couple is raising five children at their Hazel Park news was met with disdain by at least to her that he could get poor guys to do his thigh, the jury decided the act home. For Jayne, an emergency room nurse, and April, a one former Detroit Public Schools anything for money. constituted battery. NICU nurse, the legal battle they fought for three years was emergency manager named in the case. On Friday, the jury heard from The jury also found Pugh responsible always about their children and how Jayne and April could “Anytime somebody needs some Sanford, as well as from his mother for intentional infliction of emotional provide protections for them as listed legal guardians of all money, they sue the school system or – the one who first alerted the media distress. Obviously disappointed with their kids. the city,” said former Detroit Schools to the story in 2013 – Tamu Gaines. the award amount, Seikaly told the The couple was officially married in August. Many Emergency Manager Roy Roberts to Sanford testified he was ostracized Detroit Free Press he believed Pugh companies in Michigan decided to volunteer their services the Detroit Free Press. “They can be by friends after the scandal broke and would consider the award amount a and provided a wedding, entirely free of cost, for the plaintiff about crazy kinds of issues that make no that he was so distraught he wandered victory and that Pugh would likely “go couple. sense. And quite often if you do it, you the streets for two months eating out out and celebrate.” The road to equality was long and strenuous for Jayne and can get paid, and that’s quite tragic.” of trash cans and washing his clothes April who have been at the center of the media spotlight since late 2012. They are looking forward to a quieter life without the constant media attention. Kentucky Clerk Kim Davis Loses Latest Teacher Who Showed Controversial Film To Return To Work Gay Marriage Appeal CONWAY SPRINGS, Kan. (AP) – Leahy, who had said he planned to the administration prior to showing the A Kansas teacher will return to work resign but changed his mind on, told the film,” Friday’s statement said. “He also LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) – Kentucky County Clerk Kim Monday after being on leave since Eagle he would no longer comment on agrees that some of his comments made Davis has lost another bid to delay issuing marriage licenses mid-October for showing a controversial the controversy. in the classroom after the film added to to same-sex couples. anti-bullying film to his students. “The school district and Mr. Leahy the controversy.” The Sixth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals on Nov. 5 denied Conway Springs school officials agreed that he would be on leave for 10 Neither Murphy nor Leahy would her latest request for a reprieve. said Nov. 6 that Tom Leahy, a social days from the classroom,” the statement elaborate on those comments. Davis stopped issuing marriage licenses after the U.S. studies teacher at Conway Springs said. “During this leave, both sides Leahy told the Eagle earlier this week Supreme Court effectively legalized gay marriage in June. Middle School, will be allowed back in consulted legal counsel and facts were that he showed the film after he was Four couples sued her, and U.S. District Judge David the classroom with some safeguards in gathered and rumors were eliminated to bothered by some students’ reaction to a Bunning then ordered her to issue the licenses. He later place. The Wichita Eagle reported that make sure all information was available history lesson last month. When students clarified his order to include all couples, not just the four Superintendent Clay Murphy would not prior to making any decisions.” were told to create their own colonies, who filed suit. discuss details of the safeguards. Leahy has said he did not get his like early American settlers, several Davis’ attorneys have appealed that expanded order several Leahy was placed on leave after principal’s permission to show the film students decided that homosexuals times, arguing that the mandate to issue licenses should he showed students “Love Is All You and did not notify parents before the film would not be allowed in their colonies, apply only to the four couples who filed suit. They received Need,” a short film that depicts a was shown. Leahy said. Other students created licenses during Davis’ five-day stint in jail for defying the fictional world in which heterosexual “Mr. Leahy has stated that he knew colonies where everyone was welcome, court’s order. children are bullied by homosexual the film might be controversial and has which led to heated debates and hard The appeals court again rejected Davis’ request. classmates. agreed that he should have checked with feelings.
8 BTL | Nov. 12, 2015 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com Nov. 12, 2015 | BTL 9 NEWS Colombia High Court Houston Delivers Tough Blow, Repeals Rules For Adoptions By Anti-Discrimination Ordinance Same-Sex Couples BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) – In a historic decision, Colombia’s Mayor Parker: ‘No One’s Rights Should Be Subject To Popular Vote’ constitutional court opened the door Nov. 4 for same-sex couples to legally BY LISA KEEN adopt children in the conservative South American nation. In a tough blow to LGBT people everywhere, In the 6-2 ruling, the court said adoption Houston voters on Nov. 3 repealed a year-old agencies can’t discriminate against gay, nondiscrimination ordinance – a repeal that lesbian and transsexual couples during appeared to be largely driven by fears that an adoption process. it would enable sexual predators to enter Colombia’s Roman Catholic Church women’s restrooms to assault young girls. The vote was 39 percent for and 61 percent immediately denounced the decision against Proposition 1, asking whether voters as violating the rights of children wanted to retain the Houston Equal Rights and going against the wishes of the Ordinance (HERO). The law, passed by majority of Colombians who polls say City Council in May of last year, prohibited overwhelmingly reject giving gays the discrimination against a wide range of same rights to marriage and adoption as minorities in a city where more than 50 percent heterosexual couples. of the population is a racial minority. “Our protest is emphatic,” Monsignor But opponents of the measure, the Campaign Juan Vicente Cordoba, a church for Houston, portrayed the ordinance as “The spokesman, told RCN TV, reiterating the Bathroom Bill” and pounded the airwaves church’s demand that the issue be decided with an ad showing a man following a young by a plebiscite. girl into a public bathroom stall. The voiceover warned that a vote for HERO would mean “We have the right so that the voice of Houston Mayor Annise Parker, left, greets a supporter at a fund raiser for the Houston Equal Rights Ordinance “any man at any time could enter a woman’s in Houston on Thursday, Oct. 22, 2015. The ordinance is a broad measure that would have consolidated the majority of Colombians is heard. The bathroom by simply claiming to be a woman existing bans on discrimination tied to race, sex, religion and other categories in employment, housing and court is there to take care of the laws, not that day.” public accommodations, and extend such protections to gays, lesbians, bisexuals and transgender people. change them,” he said. “Even registered sex offenders could follow The measure failed Nov. 3 after an ugly campaign. AP Photo/Pat Sullivan Supporters of the decision say it could women or young girls into the bathroom and, “No one’s rights should be subject to a help streamline the adoption of some if a business tried to stop them, they’d be Echoing a buzz phrase often used by popular vote,” said Parker. “It is insulting, it fined,” said the ad. 10,000 children in Colombia under the is demeaning and it is just wrong.” She said Supporters of the ordinance tried to counter Republican presidential frontrunner protection of welfare agencies. opponents of the ordinance ran a “calculated the message with their own ad, showing a President Juan Manuel Santos’ campaign of lies designed to demonize a little retired Houston police officer and “father Ben Carson, Texas Lieutenant government argued in favor of the understood minority.” of four girls” saying, “It’s already illegal for plaintiffs in the landmark case. The high Parker said opponents – whom she Governor Dan Patrick applauded men to go into women’s restrooms to harm court paved the way for Wednesday’s characterized as “right-wing ideologues and someone.” They also warned that, if Houston religious right” – “just kept spewing an ugly Houston voters for leading the decision last year when it authorized repealed the ordinance, it would likely mean wad of lies from our TV screens and from adoption rights for gay couples in which a loss of major employers for the city and the pulpits.” effort to “end this constant one member is a biological parent. loss of such high profile events as the Super Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick With last Wednesday’s decision, Bowl. portrayed the repeal effort as a pushback political correctness attack on Colombia joins only a handful of nations Houston’s three-term Mayor Annise Parker, by the church to “stand up” in “a Christian the first openly gay mayor of any major city in in Latin America, including Uruguay and nation.” And he sought to extend the political what we know in our heart and our the country, championed the ordinance from Argentina, in allowing same-sex couples implications of the vote. Speaking to the beginning and blamed its rejection on “a to adopt. It also comes on the heels of a opponents of the ordinance at their victory gut as Americans is not right.” campaign of fear-mongering and deliberate number of gay-friendly rulings, including rally last Tuesday night, Patrick said the vote lies.” She also made clear during the campaign one reaffirming the rights of same-sex was a message to “those who supported this, The Houston Chronicle reported that voter that she felt the effort to repeal the ordinance couples to form civil unions with the same including Hillary Clinton who wants to be the turnout Nov. 3 broke all records since 2003, was an attack on her and Tuesday’s vote was next president, that you’re out of touch with drawing nearly 27 percent of voters to the inheritance and legal rights as married a particularly stinging loss for Parker, who America, you’re out of touch with your own polls. couples. Still pending is a proposal to is finishing up her term-limited third term party, you’re out of touch with common sense, As of the last filing deadline, Campaign allow same-sex couples the right to wed. as mayor. you’re out of touch with common decency.” for Houston, the group that wants to repeal At a gathering of “Vote Yes on Prop Echoing a buzz phrase often used by the ordinance, reported raising only $62,000 1” supporters last Tuesday night, Parker Republican presidential frontrunner Ben and spending $88,000. Houston Unites reiterated those feelings, noting that, during Extended briefs are available online at: Carson, Patrick applauded Houston voters for Against Discrimination, the group supporting her 40 years as a political activist, she has >> www.PrideSource.com leading the effort to “end this constant political the ordinance, had received $1.7 million in watched the city vote four times to deny equal correctness attack on what we know in our rights to lesbians and gays. heart and our gut as Americans is not right.” See Houston Blow, next page
10 BTL | Nov. 12, 2015 www.PrideSource.com Houston’s Nondiscrimination Measure’s Defeat Prompts Reflection HOUSTON (AP) – Supporters of an Nov. 4 the ordinance’s defeat will not affect ordinance that would have established the league’s plans for the 2017 Super Bowl. nondiscrimination protections for gay and Mike Waterman, president of the Greater transgender people in Houston looked to Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau, said regroup after the measure was soundly the NCAA has indicated the Final Four will rejected by voters. remain in Houston in 2016. But the NCAA has The Houston Equal Rights Ordinance lost indicated if Houston wants to host a Final Four Nov. 3 by a vote of 61 percent to 39 percent, after 2016, one of the factors that will be taken despite supporters of the measure outspending into consideration is whether the city has some opponents by a 3-to-1 margin. Here are some sort of equal rights ordinance in place, he said. answers to questions about the ordinance’s Nov. 4, one customer who had booked the defeat and what might happen in the aftermath convention center for an event expressed of that loss. concerns in the wake of the ordinance’s defeat, but Waterman said officials were able Why Was the Ordinance to reassure that individual. Rejected By Voters? What Does This Mean For The Bob Stein, a political scientist at Rice University in Houston, said local elections, Gay Rights Movement Locally which included the selection of a new mayor, and Nationally prompted a large turnout by Republicans and African-Americans, who both ended up voting The ordinance’s supporters, including against the ordinance. outgoing Houston Mayor Annise Parker, Stein said voters, particularly African- vowed they would continue pushing for its Americans, would have likely been persuaded approval. But with Parker ending her final to approve the ordinance if they had been two-year term, it’s unclear if the new mayor presented with the argument that failing to pass and City Council will take up the issue. the measure could mean potential economic Bob Harvey, president and CEO of the losses, including companies deciding not to Greater Houston Partnership, an influential relocate to Houston and possible loss of the business group in the city, said the business 2017 Super Bowl in Houston. community remains committed to an equal rights ordinance but local leaders need to help the public have a better understanding of the Could There Be Any Fallout gender identity issues that are addressed in the ordinance before going forward. From The Ordinance’s Defeat? Opponents of Houston’s ordinance alleged Supporters of the ordinance had warned it would allow male sexual predators to go into that failure to pass it could lead to economic women’s restrooms. LGBT rights activists boycotts of the city or might endanger plans say they are bracing for opponents across the for Houston to host the Super Bowl in 2017 or country to make the same argument in their the NCAA Final Four in 2016. The NFL said campaigns.
® Houston Blow $250,000 to Yes on Prop 1. A political Continued from p. 10 action committee called the Annise Parker Campaign gave $95,000. contributions and $1.3 million in expenditures. Houston is the fourth most populous city According to city campaign finance in the nation and the only one that lacks a records, the Human Rights Campaign comprehensive nondiscrimination ordinance. contributed more than $400,000 to pro- It is also an old, bloody battleground for ordinance campaign Houston Unites Against gays. In 1985, 28 percent of registered Discrimination. HRC spokesman Stephen voters rejected two laws – one to prohibit Peters said the group also contributed more sexual orientation discrimination in city than $300,000 through in-kind resources, employment and another to records about “like staff time working on the campaign, city hiring based on sexual orientation. Both phone banks and mail and phones to mobilize were defeated with 82 percent of the vote. In Houston voters.” 2001, 52 percent of Houston voters approved “HRC has deployed 34 staff members to a change to the city charter to prohibit any Texas, the largest amount we’ve deployed for “privilege” based on sexual orientation and to a single campaign,” said Peters. deny domestic partners of city employees the The pro-gay national conservative social benefits provided to the spouses of married welfare group American Unity Fund gave city employees. www.PrideSource.com Nov. 12, 2015 | BTL 11 Micro-Dotting Us And ‘Them’ Parting Glances OPINION BY CHARLES ALEXANDER
he human brain is often called “the three pound universe.” It contains a hundred billion neurons, allowing for more connections Tamong these busy, busy, busy transmitters than there are twinkling stars in our Milky Way. Take off a week or two of your next vacation time to align these neurons: the resulting line dance would be 621 miles long. Poet Emily Dickinson – whose own graceful 19th century neurons danced to hymnal meters – wrote, “The brain is just the weight of God/ For, lift them, pound by pound/ And they will differ, if they do/ As syllable from sound.” Obviously, brains do differ. How much – say, between the statistically “normal” brain and that of someone with schizophrenia, a bipolar person, a male and a female brain, a straight and gay brain – is rapidly and tantalizingly being mapped by scientists. Neurologically curious, the National Institute of Health launched a $3 million Human Connectome Project that combines a variety of MRI and CAT scanning/imaging technologies to systematically pinpoint wiring, micro-dot by micro-dot. One outcome eagerly anticipated: how our inward galaxy of neurons gives rise to single, conscious minds. (“The brain is wider than the sky/ For, put them side by side/ The one the other will include/ With ease, Viewpoint: Ballot Initiative and you beside.”) There’s growing evidence of differences between gay and straight brain structuring, some subtle, some quite pronounced, according to “The Male Brain,” by Dr. Louann Brizendine (Broadway Books; $24.99). She comments in the appendix (“The Male Brain and Sexual Maybe We’re Missing The Point Orientation”), “Are men gay because their brains are different? Studies have been conducted for two decades in order to answer this question. Some of them have found evidence of anatomical or functional BY JAY MADDOCK differences between gay and straight brains. Before we wage a costly ballot campaign, it is crucial that “Others have established that genes play a part in determining gender “No Men In Women’s Bathrooms” orientation, which implies the existence of brain differences.” (Get out was on T-shirts and posters and we focus our efforts on educating people on trans lives. your “Gray’s Anatomy,” Mary. It’s going to be a phrenological bumpy brochures that the opposition night!) used during the campaign to keep Some recent findings are here summarized: “A part of the Houston an inclusive city for all and fairness, this country needs breathing lives on the line. hypothalamus called the supraciasmatic nucleus is twice as large in gay its residents. And these five words a lot of in-depth and intentional When we focus on whether an males as in straight males. A bundle of connections between the brain’s inflicted enough fear, based on lies education around trans people. ordinance wins or loses, maybe two hemispheres – called the anterior commisure – is also larger in gay and anti-trans rhetoric, to prevent an As long as the opposition uses we’re missing the point. When we males than in straight males. It’s also larger in straight females as well. equal rights ordinance to pass. We lies and fear-mongering to scare focus on getting out the vote, maybe “The hypothalamus in gay male brains is stimulated by the scent once again have an opportunity to people out of doing the right thing, we’re missing the point. When of male sweat, but in the straight male brain it is not. This suggests learn that civil rights should never the solution has to be putting the we focus on nationwide trends that a difference in the brain’s hypothalamic circuits for response to be put to a vote. Historically, even humanity back into trans identities. of acceptance of LGBT families, pheromones may attract gay males to the scent produced by the sweat when equal right ordinances have As long as trans people, particularly maybe we’re missing the point. glands of men and plays a role in their sexual orientation.” (And LA won in a vote, the most marginalized transwomen, are associated with When we leave out the presence Fitness workout mania.) lives still suffer great harm from humanity-robbing slogans like of racism and sexism and how it “Spatial tasks: gay men perform more like straight women. Identical backlash and hate rhetoric from “no men in women’s bathrooms,” plays out in transphobia, maybe twin pairs are more likely to share sexual orientation than fraternal twin opposition. not only will we continue to lose, we’re missing the point. When we pairs. Thirty-five percent of sexual orientation is attributable to genetic I’m from Kalamazoo, where but we will continue to watch forget to include trans people in the influences. in 2009 our city also had to vote transwomen be harassed, assaulted leadership and direction of these “The asymmetrical size of the two brain hemispheres that is to keep our nondiscrimination and murdered. In fact, if we don’t campaigns, maybe we’re missing characteristic of straight male brains is not observed in gay male brains. ordinance that our city commission speak out against it, we will be the point. In this respect, gay male brains were more like female brains. Swedish unanimously passed. In Kalamazoo, culpable in this dehumanization. We are missing the point. research studies suggest that there are differences between gay and we won. But that didn’t mean trans The opposition is relying on people’s These transphobic narratives are straight male brains that are not directly involved in sexual attraction.” people stopped getting harassed for fear and discomfort with trans intentionally written not only to Bridge, brunch, ballet anyone? Football, golf, tight end, who? trying to pee, or while walking to bodies to justify not protecting trans keep us from winning, but to keep us work, or while living their lives. lives. When the opposition uses from being seen as human. Because That’s because regardless of win or [email protected] this tactic, it’s not just an ordinance lose in these campaigns for inclusion on the line: it is real, living and See Maddock: Ballot, page 14
12 BTL | Nov. 12, 2015 www.PrideSource.com Viewpoint: Ballot Initiative Transmissions
talk about bathrooms anymore. I feel It’s Better To Be Pissed Off Than Pissed On The Tip like I’ve made it as clear as I can that rights for transgender people do not lead to predators in women’s rooms. If Dana Nessel’s committee strengthening and building our The facts back it up: there have been no succeeds in creating a ballot LGBTQ community nonprofit cases of assault in any city where these question for Michigan’s voters service organizations. rights have been given. These bills do to make the decision about the I recognize that recent polls not repeal any sexual assault laws. It’s civil rights of LGBTQ people, show increased levels of support ludicrous. we are very likely to lose. Across by the general public in Michigan You cannot, however, appeal to facts the years and the country, the towards LGBTQ equality. But when it comes to arguments claiming history of ballot initiatives aimed I am genuinely concerned that BY GWENDOLYN ANN SMITH people dear to you will be victimized, BY HOWARD ISRAEL at expanding the civil rights of an ill-advised, irresponsible, and you will have no recourse. As LGBTQ people is heartbreaking. badly-timed LGBTQ-issue ballot ridiculous as the argument is, for many ast year, Time Magazine said we strongly oppose any sort of Generally, voters have decided initiative in Michigan right now it seems to trip a primal trigger. They had reached the “Transgender LGBT-related ballot initiative against us. With acute pain, I would bring forth the “hounds go against logic, seeking only to defend tipping point.” Since then, in Michigan! History shows remember our attempt in 2004 of hell” – the malicious and L what they find precious. Olympic hero Caitlyn Jenner has I to stop the constitutional ban on lying anti-gay, arch-conservative What the transgender community we are the losers when gay rights joined other high-profile transgender are put to a popular vote. Civil marriage equality in Michigan. operatives/terrorists (political and needs right now is an emotional celebrities such as Janet Mock, Laverne rights protections should never, We lost not only the ballot religious) who exploit LGBT argument that helps those so triggered Cox, Laura Jane Grace and others. ever be put to a popular vote! initiative, but also we lost valuable issues to increase their power and to stand down, to feel their loved ones The visibility of transgender people in We need to take a synchronized, spirit, energy, time and lots and fill their wallets. If we are forced are safe and protected – and are safer the mainstream media has never been strategic long view to amending lots of money. A proposed anti- to defend the proposed ballot with transgender protections in place. higher. Michigan’s nondiscrimination discrimination ballot initiative in initiative in Michigan, massive With the loss of HERO we will In spite of all the visibility, however, law, the Elliott-Larsen Civil Michigan, as proposed by Nessel, amounts of money will need to see more of these fights against one topic dominates transgender issues Rights Act, by first electing gay is estimated to cost between $12- be raised. Where will the funds transgender rights crop up, especially more than any celebrity: bathrooms. and gay-friendly candidates to 16 million. Much of that money come from? Michigan’s LGBTQ in a presidential election year, when I’ve talked about bathrooms a lot, so Michigan’s governing bodies. would be spent on defending community organizations – and conservatives want to get out the vote. much so that I’m really not sure I have We then need to work through ourselves from the falsehoods the donors who support them – This too is akin to what went down with much new to say. the Legislature to amend Elliott- and propaganda promulgated are already financially stretched. Proposition 8 and other anti-marriage In Houston, Texas, the referendum Larsen. by our horrible opponents. That bills. This is exactly why conservative on their equal rights ordinance, HERO, money could be much better used See Israel: Ballot, page 14 groups seem to be heavily invested in failed. The bill covered a total of 15 culture wars: it gets people out to vote protected classes against bias in several for their candidates as they pull the lever categories. It failed by a vote of 61 against us. percent to 39 percent. Once again, the Speaking of the presidential race: adage that you should never allow a presidential candidate Ben Carson also vote on minority rights rings true. Such Viewpoint: Ballot Initiative chimed in on HERO, for what it’s worth. a struggle almost always fails. “It is not fair for (transgender people) to Everyone is now busy trying to figure make everybody else uncomfortable,” out why it lost, and laying blame all Carson said. “It’s one of the things over the place. Even unfairly at the feet The GLBT 11th Commandment that I don’t particularly like about the of the black community, or celebrities movement.” This man is one of the top such as Beyoncé. GOP picks at current, which should I don’t think you can so easily scare you. claim that this or that group did not do I can’t help but ask who else has enough. While I think a lot of LGBT “made everybody else uncomfortable” groups could have done more – it failed in the bathroom. As I’ve said before, because the “other side” dominated BY MICHAEL EINHEUSER every rights battle seems to have discussion. They did so by using the its bathroom moment. Heck, the “bathroom meme,” claiming that this issue a statement that both DeBoer v. Snyder (yes, that same arguments were used with race ho knew that the bill would somehow allow predators to finds common cause with Gov. Snyder), Nessel was a key part segregated bathrooms as well as the political wisdom of be allowed to go into changing rooms Rick Snyder and obliquely but of the nationwide recognition of Equal Rights Amendment battle of the former President and restrooms and victimize your wife W soundly criticizes the work of constitutional protections for all 1970s. Ronald Reagan would be relevant or children. Attorney Dana Nessel, a key same-sex unions. Ms. Nessel has I got talking about bathrooms again, to the LGBT political agenda in Televisions and radios played legal advocate in DeBoer v. arguably accomplished more for didn’t I? Enough about them: here’s Michigan? Reagan popularized commercials making the above claim, Snyder. our community than any other what I really want to talk about. his 11th Commandment: “Thou and T-shirts on opponents to HERO Reality check one: Snyder single individual in the state. In this country, since Nov. 20, 2014, shalt not speak ill of any fellow declared, “No Men in Women’s signed legislation prohibiting Ms. Nessel has launched an 22 transgender people have been Republican.” Those who claim Bathrooms. Vote NO on Houston’s Prop local communities from effort to collect signatures to reported killed due to anti-transgender political leadership in our #1.” Few seemed to know what the bill recognizing same-sex unions put the question of amending violence. They – and the likely hundreds community should give those actually covered, only believing it was and allowing adoptions agencies Michigan’s Elliott-Larsen Civil more killed worldwide – will be honored words careful thought. only about men in women’s rooms. This to discriminate against us on Rights Act on the 2016 ballot. this Nov. 20, Transgender Day of Who also knew that we would is how well the opposition controlled religious grounds. The amendment would include Remembrance. This will be the 17th ever see the day that an all-star the dialogue. Reality check two: In sexual orientation and gender collection of LGBT advocacy As I’ve already said, I don’t want to representing the plaintiffs in See Smith: Transmissions, page 15 organizations would jointly See Einheuser: Ballot, page 14 www.PrideSource.com Nov. 12, 2015 | BTL 13 ® Einheuser: 11th Commandment ® Maddock: The Point hearing from opposition. We have to connect selves. We fight for every breath we inhale, people to the reality of living as a trans person every step we walk, every day we live. And Continued from p. 13 Continued from p. 12 and why legislation that protects trans lives we are having to fight to have our stories it is easier to kill, imprison, fire, evict and is imperative to all of our livelihoods. We heard. We need to intentionally create spaces identity as protected classes. The signatories to harm someone whom we do not see as human. have to understand that transphobia has and avenues for trans voices, particularly the statement believe such an endeavor should We’re missing the point that these narratives racist and sexist roots, and incorporate that transwomen of color, to be heard. The not be undertaken. They say: are not only transphobic, but they are also understanding into our education campaigns. invisibility of trans lives from our narrative “Victory in Michigan requires thoughtful racist, sexist, misogynist and classist. Until And most importantly we must maintain is not because trans people aren’t telling their planning and, most importantly, sitting down we invest in a campaign rooted in education the unity of our community around the stories; it’s because we aren’t hearing their with all of the many communities and groups and led by trans people that focuses on importance of adding sexual orientation and stories. Intentional and in-depth education whose support and engagement will be taking control of this narrative to reclaim the gender identity to the Elliott-Larsen Civil by trans people about trans lives is the only essential to successfully updating our laws. humanity of trans identities, we will continue Rights Act and allow trans leaders to guide way we will shift control of the narrative and Any attempt to move forward without a clear to miss the point. us forward. Because after all, it will be the begin securing protections for trans people. Before we wage a costly ballot campaign, trans community that takes the brunt of the path to victory is ultimately a disservice to Jay Maddock is a Western Michigan University it is crucial that we focus our efforts on backlash. the LGBT people who live in Michigan and graduate and the executive director of the risks dividing our community and others who educating people on trans lives. We have to Trans folks are strong, and we overcome Kalamazoo Gay and Lesbian Resource Center. deserve protection from discrimination.” help people hear the truth over the lies they are barriers on a daily basis to live as our authentic Email Maddock at [email protected]. Funding and conducting a ballot ® Israel: Pissed Off sadly – the pro-HERO side lost. Pro-LGBT Can Michigan Trust Popular issue campaign is an even taller Continued from p. 13 support struggled to maintain its support level. The anti-ordinance side won by Vote On LGBTQ Civil Rights? one. But the accusation that Ms. Why should they be asked to raise money for telling lies, lies and more lies about LGBTQ a potentially-doomed ballot initiative instead people, especially targeting trans women and Can Michigan’s LGBTQA community Nessel is divisive and that her work of their own programs? restrooms. The opposition established fear afford to have our civil rights voted on by the And who will pay the price beyond money? in voters and voters gave into their fears and general public? Can we naively trust that a will hinder the protection of the Who pays the emotional price of a long, ugly stopped their support. When it comes down to popular vote would be favorable to us? Can and vicious ballot campaign? We learned it, in the privacy of the voting booth, people we afford to lose precious spirit, energy, time community from discrimination from the anti-gay, anti-trans onslaught in vote their fears, regardless of how much and money that could otherwise be better- Houston, Texas and from past gay-related LGBTQ support pollsters report. utilized to strengthen Michigan’s LGBTQA is a needless public insult to one ballot initiatives that the individuals who are So... why am I connecting what happened community? most harmed are already our most vulnerable: in Houston with the proposed ballot initiative My answer is “NO!” I strongly oppose of our community’s heroines. trans people, poor people, LGBTQ youth, in Michigan? Because Nessel’s proposed any sort of LGBT-related ballot initiative in and disproportionately, LGBT people of ballot initiative is an invitation to poisonous, Michigan! color – people who would be demonized wicked anti-gay activists/terrorists – inside I totally agree with Steph White, Equality This is no doubt that getting the necessary by a political campaign of anti-gay lies. and outside of Michigan – who are salivating Michigan’s new executive director, signatures to put this matter on the ballot is In fact, all LGBTQA people will incur an to stop any progress made by a successful whose multi-year plan to add sexual a very tall order. Funding and conducting a emotional toll by seeing our lives insulted LGBTQA movement. Given the political orientation and gender identity to Michigan ballot issue campaign is an even taller one. But and discredited in public by despicable nature of Michigan today, would anti-gay Nondiscrimination Policy includes: the accusation that Ms. Nessel is divisive and fabrications in the media, on billboards and activists respond to a ballot initiative by 1) Winning over more and more friends in that her work will hinder the protection of the in mailings that come into our computers launching religious freedom legislation that the Legislature who will stand with us; community from discrimination is a needless and homes. We know that anti-gay rhetoric would allow biased religious business owners 2) Strengthening the skills and capacity of public insult to one of our community’s during ballot initiative campaigns increases to openly discriminate? Who knows? But why organizations all across the LGBT movement heroines. the likelihood of verbal abuse, harassment, offer an invitation that would open ourselves to work smarter and in coordination towards The strategy urged by these advocacy overt discrimination and sometimes physical up to the risk? our common goal; groups is working to elect a more gay friendly violence. If, as in Houston, trans women Since losing their fight against marriage 3) Educating and engaging our allies Legislature. That’s a pretty tall order too. It’s take the brunt of the political attacks, trans equality, anti-LGBT activists/terrorists such as the labor movement, the business been observed that the current legislative women of color may especially be in danger have made the defeat of efforts to add community and faith communities, among district maps are so badly gerrymandered of violence and murder. sexual orientation and gender identity to others; toward conservative Republicans that As you may know, Houston has recently nondiscrimination policies a central aim 4) Correcting the fears and misconceptions meaningful change will never happen until been engaged in the battle for gay and of their fight against LGBT equality. By that the general public now has about what the maps are redrawn in 2021. transgender rights over the Houston Equal characterizing nondiscrimination laws as expanding our rights means, or doesn’t mean, The two strategies are not mutually Rights Ordinance (HERO) – the first major a threat to religious freedom and personal for them. exclusive. The work of one group takes initiative since the Supreme Court legalized safety, conservatives are hoping to hijack the This is an excellent plan. nothing away from the other. Ms. Nessel’s has same-sex marriage nationwide this spring. conversation about even the most basic legal Let’s keep LGBTQ issues out of the voting a good start. Her co-chair is Lansing attorney The ordinance prohibits “discrimination protections for LGBT people. booth! Richard McLellan, one of the state’s most in city employment and city services, city As the fourth largest city in the country, Let’s focus on building more effective effective Republican political operatives. contracts, public accommodations, private Houston is a test case for anti-LGBT coalitions with our friends and allies. The LGBT community should observe its employment and housing” based on sexual conservatives in what works successfully in Let’s elect political candidates who own 11th Commandment. Let’s agree not to preference or gender identity. To get the law their efforts to dismantle nondiscrimination are trustworthy and honest, on whom we publicly speak ill of fellow LGBT groups or repealed, the fanatical opposition worked policies. We know that anti-gay operatives can depend to represent LGBTQA issues individuals that act with good faith and seek diligently to distort the truth with wild scare repeat successful misinformation and fear- truthfully and justly! to accomplish our shared goals. tactics, spreading the accusations of male mongering techniques in one city and state That’s my view and I’m stickin’ to it! molesters/predators dressed as women, after another. Why would we think Dana Michael Einheuser is the principle in Einheuser lurking in bathrooms, waiting to pounce on Nessel’s proposed ballot initiative would be Howard Israel is an activist and philanthropist Legal Group, P.C. specializing in Estate Planning girls and women. immune to the fear-mongering techniques that living in Southeast Michigan. He has worked and Elder Law located in Bingham Farms. He can In Houston, the pro-HERO ordinance are appearing around the country? on many projects including the 2004 anti-gay be reached at 248-398-4665 or online at www. supporters out-spent the anti-gay/anti- einheuserlegal.com. ordinance campaign by 7-1. And – very, very marriage amendment.
14 BTL | Nov. 12, 2015 www.PrideSource.com Mormon Church Issues Rules Aimed At Gay Members, Their Kids
BY BRADY MCCOMBS act differently, it does not perform or accept Nathan Kitchen, a gay Mormon with That fact wasn’t lost on Mormons same-sex marriage within its membership,” interpreting the new rules. SALT LAKE CITY (AP) – Mormon church Hawkins said in a statement. five children, said the news left him “I am no better now than an illegal officials have issued a rule change that says Montgomery said Friday the news left her devastated and angry about the polygamist,” Kitchen said. members in same-sex marriages can be kicked son sobbing and forced her and her husband to Scott Gordon, president of FairMormon, out and their children must wait until they’re consider leaving a religion they’ve belonged quandary his children now face. a volunteer organization that supports the 18 and disavow homosexual relationships to to for generations. The couple has been trying church, said: “It certainly makes a statement be baptized. desperately to stay in the church despite a about how they feel about it.” The revisions triggered a wave of anger, harsh reception to their son coming out. The changes come as other religious groups Gordon said he understands why some find confusion and sadness for a growing faction Montgomery also echoed a response shared that oppose gay marriage struggle with how the changes jarring and consider them mean- of LGBT-supportive Mormons who were by many on social media: She can somewhat to approach the issue of same-sex spouses’ spirited toward children. But, he believes buoyed in recent years by church leaders’ calls understand the hard stance on same-sex children. they’re intended to protect gay couples and for more compassion and understanding for marriage, but she can’t comprehend singling The new rules stipulate that children of their children by allowing the kids to mature LGBT members. out gay couple’s children. parents in gay or lesbian relationships – be it and make the difficult decision at 18 about “It feels like they are extending an olive “We just put a scarlet letter on these kids,” marriage or just living together – can no longer whether to become fully invested in a religion branch and hitting you with it,” said Wendy Montgomery said. “This isn’t my church. I receive blessings as infants or be baptized that holds as a root tenant that their parents’ Montgomery, who is Mormon and has a don’t see God in it. I don’t see divinity it. It around age 8. They can, however, be baptized lifestyle is a sin. 17-year-old gay son. “It’s like this emotional just feels evil.” and serve missions once they turn 18, but “The idea of family is not just a peripheral whiplash.” Nathan Kitchen, a gay Mormon with five only if they disavow the practice of same-sex issue in the Mormon church. It’s core The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day children, said the news left him devastated relationships; no longer live with gay parents; doctrine. It’s a central idea that we can be Saints disseminated the handbook changes and angry about the quandary his children now and get approval from their local leader and sealed together as a family and live together this week to local church leaders around the face. The 47-year-old dentist was married to a the highest leaders at church headquarters in eternally,” Gordon said. “That only works with world. The goal was to provide clarity to woman for 18 years before a recent divorce. Salt Lake City. heterosexual couples.” lay leaders who run congregations, church “I am stunned right now at how I’m being The church views these key milestones The handbook revisions also for the first spokesman Eric Hawkins said. He noted the labeled and how my children are being as acts that bind a person to the faith and as time list being in a same-sex relationship as an church has long been on record as opposing marked,” said Kitchen, of Gilbert, Arizona. promises to follow its doctrine. offense that can lead to being ousted from the same-sex marriages. “It’s almost like they now have to choose The changes align with the way the church religion. This is a category known as apostasy, “While it respects the law of the land, and between a gay father and a church that they addresses children in polygamous families, said Matthew Bowman, associate professor of acknowledges the right of others to think and love.” SeeMormon Church, page 16 history at Henderson State University.
® Smith: Transmissions Continued from p. 13 annual TDOR observance. The number of deaths are higher than years past, though I can’t tell you for sure if they’re higher because we’re paying more attention, or because there are more transpeople being killed. My gut tells me that it’s a bit of both. Many have claimed that visibility of Caitlyn Jenner and others that make up “The Transgender Tipping point” are indirectly responsible for the increase in murders. This, to me, feels a bit like claiming Beyoncé not speaking out in support led to the loss of HERO. For me, though, I can’t help but look at the people fighting bills in Houston and elsewhere. How can you expect to tell people about how giving rights to transgender people will allow sexual deviants to harm your family and not expect people to react? As I said above, that was the whole point of the bathroom meme. Some may defend their loved ones by voting, but others do so by grabbing a weapon. Like Ben Carson, some people are uncomfortable – and with their religious and political leaders attacking transgender people, they might feel equally at ease doing so. Transgender people are being cast as the enemy of decency, as something to fear, something to feel uncomfortable about. It’s not that much a step from this sort of vilification to people seeking to kill us. HERO, bathrooms and these attacks on transgender people are just the tip, and the stakes are higher than ever before. Gwen Smith is so very much not a predator. You’ll find her on Twitter at @gwenners. www.PrideSource.com Nov. 12, 2015 | BTL 15 HRC, Partnership For Drug-Free Kids To Kevin Swanson BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI Prevent LGBT Teen Substance Abuse But Swanson is all, “Nah, ashes are too here are those who are your run tame for me,” and takes it to the next level. New issue brief aims to increase understanding of challenges faced by LGBT youth of the mill anti-LGBT folks, and The poop level. then there are the foaming at But wait, in his effort to win the Crazy BY BTL STAFF Parents and caregivers are encouraged to T Olympics he levels up to the pus level. discuss their concerns and expectations about the mouth, screamin’ to the heavens, shoutin’ at the devil anti-LGBT folks like And let me clarify before you read this The HRC Foundation and Partnership for substance use with teens, focusing on health Colorado pastor that “pussy” means “full of pus” and is Drug-Free Kids released a new brief Oct. 29 risks and asking teens to share their perspectives; Kevin Swanson. pronounced as such. He is not talking titled “Preventing Substance Abuse Among Parents, educators and youth-serving At the National about cats or vaginas. LGBTQ Teens” as a guide to help parents, professionals should actively affirm and support Religious Liberties “I’m grieving, I’m mourning, I’m educators and other youth-serving professionals LGBTQ teens’ sexual orientation and gender Conference pointing out the problem! It’s not a gay understand the unique challenges – including identity; earlier this month, time,” he says, shouting and near tears. bullying and family rejection – faced by LGBT Educators and youth-serving professionals homosexuality “These are the people with the sores, the youth that contribute to their heightened rates are urged to confront bias s and create supportive came up a lot. gaping sores! The sores that are pussy, of substance abuse. environments for LGBTQ teens; And Swanson, the and gross, and people are coming in and The publication is the first product of a new And policymakers should fund research into conference’s host, carving happy faces on the sores. That’s collaboration between the educational arm of the substance abuse prevention, address LGBTQ made his position not a nice thing to do. Don’t you dare HRC, the HRC Foundation and Partnership for youth homelessness and eliminate zero- Kevin Swanson graphically carve happy faces on open pussy sores. Drug-Free Kids, a national nonprofit working tolerance policies for drug violations. clear when he to reduce substance abuse among adolescents. Additionally, the Partnership and HRC warned the audience about “the sin of “We’re excited by this opportunity to reach Foundation will work together to expand the homosexuality.” Thankfully nobody would ever take the parents and families of LGBT kids via visibility and participation of LGBT youth in “Paul affirms that this particular sin is our online resources, our telephone helpline teen-targeted programming, including Above worthy of death in Romans Chapter 1,” this guy seriously. Unless you’re (855-DRUGFREE) and parent coaching the Influence, the Partnership’s teen substance he says. “So, granted there are varying Republican presidential hopefuls program, and provide them with research-based abuse prevention campaign that reaches levels of clarity/relevance relating to materials that can help reduce family conflict millions nationally through social media, public ethics, but still the Old Testament and Mike Huckabee, Bobby Jindal and and rejection, strengthen acceptance and lead service announcements and community-based New Testament, I believe, both speak to healthier LGBT youth,” said EVP Research activities. with authority and we ought to receive it.” Ted Cruz. Then you attend Swanson’s and External Relations at the Partnership, Sean “This collaboration strengthens our efforts to It’s cute that he points out the “varying Clarkin. ensure that the unique experiences and needs of levels of clarity/relevance relating to hatefest. Because you want to be Together the organizations developed content LGBTQ youth are recognized and addressed, by ethics.” In other words, “We can’t just and materials for LGBT teens, parents and parents and teachers, as well as professionals start executing gays because that would publicly associated with a man who families designed to promote understanding who provide substance abuse prevention and and provide practical guidance on protecting treatment services,” said Ellen Kahn, director be logistically difficult and would upset wants to smear shit all over himself some people.” But he’s basically saying LGBT youth, along with reducing their risk of of the children, youth and families program at we “ought to.” Because the Bible says so. and thinks gays should be killed. drug and alcohol abuse through better family the HRC Foundation. “It’s critical that higher So you can only imagine what he thinks support, safer schools and more caring adults rates of substance use among LGBT youth of marriage equality. in communities. be understood and addressed in a context of “There are families, we’re talking Among the issue brief’s recommendations understanding and support.” Don’t you ever do that. Don’t you ever to reduce the risk of substance abuse by LGBT Christian families, pastors’ families, To read the full issue brief, please visit http://hrc.org/ elders’ families from good, godly do that. I tell you don’t do it!” youth: teensubstanceabuse. churches,” he says, “(and) their sons are It sounds to me like Swanson is rebelling, hanging out with homosexuals confusing a same-sex wedding with a and getting married and the parents are “Walking Dead” wedding. He has a really invited. What would you do if that was sick imagination. ® Mormon Church major religions, a new survey from the Pew the case?” “Sack cloth and ashes,” Swanson Continued from p. 15 Research Center shows. Um, I’d go? And since I’m the parent in continues. “This is what America needs. In a survey done last year, 36 percent of this hypothetical situation I’d support my America needs to hear the message. We which until now has been reserved primarily for Mormons said homosexuality should be child in his quest for love and happiness are messed up.” people who practice polygamy, teach inaccurate accepted by society. That’s up from 24 percent in his life. Speak for yourself, Swanson. You’re doctrine or publicly defy guidance to church in 2007, the last time Pew conducted its U.S. Swanson has a different, grosser, idea. the one having fever dreams about carving leaders. Religious Landscape Study. (Don’t read on if you’re eating.) pus-filled smiley faces, which is one of the Last month, two high-ranking church leaders Support for gay marriage is lower, with just “Here is what I would do: sackcloth and most messed up things I’ve ever heard. delivered speeches that gave LGBT advocates 25 percent of Latter-day Saints approving such ashes at the entrance to the church and I’d Thankfully nobody would ever take this hope that the faith was moving toward greater unions. sit in cow manure and I’d spread it all over guy seriously. acceptance. The leaders reiterated the religion’s Kitchen is currently single but hopes to one my body,” he says. “That is what I would Unless you’re Republican presidential commitment to promoting families led by day marry again, this time to a man. More do and I’m not kidding, I’m not laughing.” hopefuls Mike Huckabee, Bobby Jindal married heterosexual couples but also urged pressing is how he’ll tell his five children, ages Woah. Sackcloth and ashes is definitely and Ted Cruz. Then you attend Swanson’s people not to shun those with opposing views. 11 to 23, about the new rules. It is his weekend not appropriate wedding attire. It’s an Old hatefest. Because you want to be publicly That message of “fairness of all” appeared to with the kids, and as of Friday afternoon, he Testament thing where people wear super associated with a man who wants to smear distance the faith from the blowback that came hadn’t decided how to address it. uncomfortable shirts made from like, goat shit all over himself and thinks gays when it was a major backer of California’s gay In the past two years, they have learned their hair or burlap or something, and rub ashes should be killed. marriage ban in 2008. father is gay and endured their parents’ divorce. all over themselves to show repentance To borrow a phrase from Swanson’s Mormons appear to be slowly growing more “This is very bad position to put children in,” or grief. own rant: “That’s not a nice thing to do.” accepting of homosexuality, albeit at rates that Kitchen said. “It will be devastating to them still put them among the least accepting among when they find this out.”
16 BTL | Nov. 12, 2015 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com Nov. 12, 2015 | BTL 17 18 BTL | Nov. 12, 2015 www.PrideSource.com BTL Sales Rep And MCCD Pastor Tie The Knot Weddings & Anniversary Celebrations BY AJ TRAGER
WATERFORD – After many years together, Indiana farm girl and Between the Lines sales rep Ann Cox and Deb Dysert, also known as Reverend Dysert from the Metropolitan Community Church of Detroit, tied the knot and married before 220 of their most beloved friends and family. They met 25 years ago and attended the same church. The year they met, Cox lived on a farm in Cambridge City, Indiana and Dysert in Indianapolis. But they would attend the same service and after awhile got to know one another. Ten years after getting together, Dysert moved to Michigan to be a pastor in Hazel Park. Cox, who generally wasn’t as interested in attending faith services as much as Dysert, wanted to spend some more time taking care of her mother in Indiana. A year and a half later she followed Dysert to Metro Detroit. Everyone knows that relationships shift and evolve throughout the years. Over the course of their love, Cox says that she has become “easier to get along with.” “We don’t argue about hardly anything anymore,” Cox said. Even though she lived an out life in Michigan,
See Married, page 20
www.PrideSource.com Nov. 12, 2015 | BTL 19 Weddings & Anniversary Celebrations www.BTLweddingexpo.com
® Married Continued from p. 19
Cox did not come out to her family until she called to invite them to the wedding. It was going to be a tough conversation – one that she had been putting off for quite some time. “We’ve been together all this time, but I had never talked to my family about it,” Cox told BTL. “She (Dysert) wanted me to invite my family, so I said, ‘OK.’ I called them up and spoke to my brother and I said, ‘Deb and I are getting married on this date, and I’d like you to be there.’” Dysert came out to her family while she was in college and provided a lot of support to Cox who had some reservations about calling her family. With the support of her bride-to-be, Cox then called her sister who was not surprised to hear the news and told her that she had been waiting for Cox to tell her about the significance of Dysert in her life for quite some time. Cox thought that her sister would be more negative than her brother but that was not the case. The wedding had a life of it’s own, Cox explained. After “It made it worth all the money that we spent. It really was the ceremony was over, guests seemed to flock to the wedding cool because all this time I really have not talked to my family table in waves to congratulate, take a picture with and even sing about it, because I didn’t want to go through any shit with for the lovebirds. The dance floor was packed with community anybody. And it worked out,” Cox said. members like Jerry Peterson, executive director of Ruth Ellis Much to her surprise, Cox’s brother attended her wedding Center, and Rev. Roland Stringfellow of MCCD. held Oct. 24 at the Pontiac Waterford Elks Lodge. Even more “It was really, really nice. I thought that we had a very significant than his arrival, he stood in her wedding party and eclectic group of people. Deb’s principal at school told her even gave a toast. that it was the best wedding she had ever been to,” Cox said. “My favorite part of the wedding was when my brother said Instead of hyphenating their last names, Dysert is planning what he said. He said, ‘Bub, I don’t care what you do. I love on changing her surname to Cox. They took their honeymoon you,’” Cox recounted. in Florida. www.PrideSource.com Nov. 12, 2015 | BTL 21 Life After Self-Improvement: Comedian Lisa Lampanelli Talks Eating Issues, Feeling Sorry For The Kardashians & Ridding Herself Of Hate
BY SHELBY CLARK PETKUS just wasn’t right for me. We just grew in different directions, and we’re both lucky we got out before etween talking about her extremely amicable anyone cheated or lied or stole, so I just feel like divorce with “Jimmy Big-Balls” – a long- it couldn’t have been an easier divorce. It probably running gag in her stand-up – and her dip into B was the easiest divorce in history. We both got a theater with a show about eating issues, comedian little more mature, I think. Lisa Lampanelli has turned the corner on being angry. Now, the “Queen of Mean” funnels that former Do you feel like you can joke about him the same way in rage into creativity that’s leaving her with “tons of your acts? energy” and making her question if she even has any Oh god yeah! I did a show the other day with his hate left in her. girlfriend, and she’s a singer. So we did a little Based on your “Celebrity Apprentice” background, I show together, and I introduced her with, “We’re both Italian, we’re both family-oriented, we’ve both have to ask – what are your thoughts on Donald Trump’s fucked Jimmy,” so I mean, she can take a joke. crack at presidency? Oh my god – I’m about to announce my vice How would you say your Italian upbringing has shaped presidency. We’re going to be the hair team your humor? because we’ve both gotten so much press about Well, my mother was and still is an amazing our hair lately. I think we make the perfect fit. storyteller. She’s just entertaining, compelling; she’s just hilarious. She’s very irreverent; she’ll say crazy People are still giving you flack about your haircut? racial stuff to get me to laugh. And she loves the They were when I was doing that Miley Cyrus gays. She can’t live without the gays. It’s hysterical, effed-up look that was standing straight up. and I learned all that from her. Now that it’s a little more feminine, they’re I got the other side of the coin from my dad who like, “OK, that’s cute now.” The haircut was was a painter, a fine artist. And he had the more pretty funny because I’d make fun of it so much sensitive side. So with things like playwriting and ... not a lot hurts my feelings lately because I writing different articles and stuff, I’ve summoned know what I’m doing and I’m old enough to go, his stuff. I got both sides of me from them. “If you don’t like me, that’s OK.” Opposed to, “Why don’t they like me?” Speaking of playwriting, can you tell me more about your one woman show, “Fat Girl, Interrupted”? I’ve heard you’ve been doing yoga and other things Well, now it’s “Fat Girls Interrupted” since I to get yourself to a better place. Has all of this self turned it from a one-person show into a four- improvement shaped your comedy, which is known person play. And it’s in conversation format. It’s a for being mean? show about different eating and weight problems, I think it’s made it that, for two shows a since part of my one-person show was the weight week, I get to say or do whatever I want issue. Now it’s four different women with four and not care about anybody’s feelings. So different weight problems: one being anorexic, all the cursing and anger that I feel for the one being too skinny, one being fat and happy, five days a week that I’m offstage finds and one being me. Which is the overeater who its way out there in a way that people can’t have a life and stuff. So the play’s great! know I’m joking and I’m kidding around. The timing is so perfect. Ever since I’ve started being like that, You ever notice when you’re doing the right I’ve started getting standing ovations thing, the right people come into your life to help again. People started responding happier you? The minute I give a reading of it, all of these because I’m bringing something fresher producers and theaters want to meet with me and to the table. I know in my gut I’m doing the right thing. This is going to help a lot of people to see they’re not How does your ex-husband Jimmy “Big Balls” alone in their weight struggles and their body Cannizzaro play into this now? issues. We had two phone calls this week! We’re really good friends still and he’s That’s definitely going to reach a lot of people, including getting married again to a girl I kind of in the LGBT and especially gay community, where there accidentally introduced him to – and she’s is a prevalence of eating disorders and issues. awesome. But he’s a really good guy. He Yeah, right? It’s almost like women used to get it the
22 BTL | Nov. 12, 2015 www.PrideSource.com PERFORMING no black people, and now I’m like, Do you have any other career goals? “Oh, so there’s only black people.” So I don’t have any other career goals Lisa Lampanelli hopefully white people will come to other than writing this play. I’m my show. Don’t be afraid to come to 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. actually going to make it into a series my show white people: there’ll be gays of plays. The next play is going to Saturday, Nov. 14 there. There’ll be blacks, but they’ll be be the same four women and their Mature Audiences well behaved, so I think we’ll be fine. issues with men and relationships and Andiamo Showroom codependency, since that was a big issue You’ve said before you only make fun of 7096 E. 14 Mile Road, Warren in my life and for a lot of my friends. Tickets: $25-75 people you like or admire. Is there anyone The next one will be about women and you’d never roast because you can’t stand 586-268-3200 anger, because I feel a lot of women them? http://andiamoitalia.com/showroom/ don’t express anger and hold it in or Yes! Who do I hate? express it not great, like I used to. And The hate has really bottomed out the fourth show will be about women since I started working on myself. I used and grief because I think, as we get worst, and now I’m like, “At least I’m to be able to rattle off a lot of people older and our parents start to die and not a gay guy – they get it even worse I resented or hated, but now that I’ve things to start happen, we have to really than we do!” been working on myself a lot offstage, go through the grieving process, and How has the Supreme Court ruling for I find I don’t really hate that many I don’t think there’s ever been a show same-sex marriage impacted your gay people anymore. I kind of feel sorry for that’s put a lighter spin on it... so those jokes? people, like the Kardashians and people four plays are sort of my mission for this who have no talent and are just kind decade, and then we’ll see what happens I have more of them! There’s more to of leeches. I don’t love them by any after that. I’ve got, I’m projecting now, make fun of – like how you guys think means, but I don’t hate them anymore. until age 94. (Laughs) They’ll wheel me gay marriage is real. I think that’s The people to roast, though, are the out in a chair. I don’t care if I’m deaf, hilarious. Or how you think you’re people who are your heroes, so my real dumb and blind. I’ll figure out a way to equal now. You guys wanted marriage dream would be to roast Howard Stern sign language that crap out. so bad? Good, now we’ll make it illegal and Don Rickles. But yeah, it’s weird; I With all of the stress you’ve been to get gay divorced so you’re stuck really don’t hate that many people. It’s with whatever asshole you picked, so really bothering me! shedding, you’re probably way further enjoy that. I have a lot of fun with it; I Oh, you know who I really hate? Mrs. ahead than other people! enjoy talking about gay marriage a lot Dog the Bounty Hunter. She’s a battle- Yeah, that’s why I have so much because now all of my friends can get axe; I can’t stand her. She’s never going energy! The weight loss was the first married. All my gays. I’m so happy. I to be roasted by me. I had to dig a little, part of getting rid of stress. The second love weddings, and I love love, and but I found one! part was getting a dog, who’s just the hopefully I’ll get married another three best dog in the world and is very stress- or four times. Which is funny, since you actually did free. And the third part was working on some voice-over work on a CMT show You’ve done a lot of work with Gay Men’s those real issues, like anger. I’m really called “Bounty Hunters.” Health Crisis in New York. How did you glad it’s all coming together! Yes! It was a cartoon about Jeff get so strongly involved with the gay What are your thoughts on up-and-coming community? Foxworthy, Larry the Cable Guy and Bill Engvall, and they asked me to do female comics, like Amy Schumer? It started off when I found out the this part of a battle-axe who was their Oh my god, I’m so proud of her. It’s so Westboro Baptist Church was going boss. And voice over is the easiest thing funny with women comics: It used to to protest my show years ago. And I to do. You go in a room, you don’t have be where you were the one where they started thinking, “OK, I want to pull to wear good clothes, you don’t have to were like, “Oh, you’re the funny woman this trick on them where however wear make-up, you don’t have to get comic.” Nobody liked woman comics. many protestors show up, I’ll donate your hair done. You basically read into And I had such a strong male fan base $1,000 to a gay cause.” I heard about a mic and then they go, “Here’s your – even straight guys were like, “Wow, Gay Men’s Health Crisis, so I looked check. Byeeeee.” Sign me up for more she’s cool; we’ll go see her.” Now that them up online. We became pretty good of that crap. I look at Amy’s audience, Whitney friends, and I donated that money to Cumming’s audience, people like that, them after the protests. And when I got Do you have anymore animated work lined I’m like, “Yes!” Men are finally starting on “Celebrity Apprentice,” there was up? to figure out, just because you have a no doubt those were the guys that I I do, but it’s top secret! You’ll hear vag doesn’t mean you’re only good was going to work with. I just love that about it soon! I was dying when I got for vag-ging. And Amy’s so edgy and organization; they do a lot of good work the offer, too, because I thought, “Are so smart, and when I saw her movie for people who feel alone. I think that’s you sure you know who I am?” I thought, “This broad can act.” She what resonates with me – people who took two years of conservatory acting feel disenfranchised, people who feel Ha, I was just about to say, “I’d love to see at a really hard school in New York left out of things. And they really bring your name on a Disney cast list.” (William Esper Studio) – I dropped out the group together at that place in New It’s not Disney, but I will tell you after a month (of that kind of acting). York. one thing: I did an episode of “The She’s really gangster and a hard worker. So you’ve been to the Detroit area before, Simpsons.” That was the high point The time is now for edgy female comics, and men are sitting up and noticing. but based on your insult comedy, what do of my animated life. I mean, they sent you have to say about the city based on me the cell of me as a drawing with the Finally! other Simpsons, and I was just crying. our, uh, “reputation”? It’s so beautiful. Yeah! It only took, like, 800 years. Usually in some of these towns there’s www.PrideSource.com Nov. 12, 2015 | BTL 23 Cool Cities Ferndale
PERFORMING All Girls, All Zeppelin! Lez Zeppelin YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD • YOUR MARKET 8 p.m. (doors), Nov. 14 Pinpoint your ad dollars where BY BTL STAFF for his work as recording engineer on The Magic Bag several of Led’s albums – most notably, 22920 Woodward Ave., Ferndale they will do the most good . . . Lez Zeppelin, the New York City-based “Led Zeppelin II,” “Physical Graffiti” $20 all-girl band, has gained worldwide critical and “The Song Remains the Same.” In Advertise in the next Cool Cities White Shag will be opening for the girl acclaim for the musicianship, passion and the wake of this release, the band was group TO PLACE AN AD CALL 734.293.7200 gender-bending audacity they bring to the invited as the first “tribute band” to ever music of Led Zeppelin. Founded in 2004 appear at a series of major rock festivals by New York guitarist, Steph Paynes, it including the Download Festival (formerly the unique distinction of being the first wasn’t long before the group’s reputation Donnington Park) in the U.K.; Rock-Am- American group of its kind to take part in for playing Zeppelin’s music with a kind Ring and Rock-Im-Park in Germany; and an event of this magnitude. of passion and force beyond anyone’s at the Voodoo Festival in New Orleans. Following a three-month tour of the U.S., expectations began to attract major interest However, it was an announcement in the band headed back into the studio to start from press and industry. February of 2008, that Lez Zeppelin would on a second album, which would take the In June 2005, Chuck Klosterman wrote take the stage at the Bonnaroo Festival that group back to where it all began – Led an article for SPIN magazine that featured sparked a worldwide media storm. Zeppelin’s 1969 debut. The band solicited Lez Zeppelin as a leading protagonist in Several major press organizations, the help of producers Perry Margouleff and a trend of all-female hard rock “tribute” including the Associated Press, Billboard, William Wittman, who approached the bands. He referred to the group as “the NME, the Chicago Sun Times and more, project with two main musical intentions: most powerful all-female band in rock reported mistakenly that Led Zeppelin – in to remain true to the sounds and textures history” and described the rise of bands like the wake of their historic reunion at the O2 of the “vinyl” version of the record and Lez Zeppelin as a “kind of multilayered in London -- would headline the festival, capture that “tight-but-loose” intensity in cultural phenomenon.” The fortunes and an embarrassing gaff that had to then be the moment. Recording at Margouleff’s notoriety of the group surged after this and corrected, turning the announcement of Pie Studio’s, a world class analog facility, Lez Zeppelin became a provocative subject Lez Zeppelin’s appearance into headline the band employed all of the same vintage for the news media across the world. news across the world. Lez Zeppelin equipment used by Led in 1968 – from Stories about the group appeared in the became a much-anticipated highlight of the ‘50s era Les Paul and Telecaster, to Times of London, whose journalist called the festival, headlining opening night with the Supro amp, ‘60s era compressor, the band “the best new band I’ve seen all a blistering set for an audience of 20,000 Hammond organ and Fuzzbender stomp year, no question”; Reuters and CNN. people. box – working fastidiously to recreate the com, which ran a front page feature that Throughout 2008, the group continued incredibly complex layers of the album called the group so “electrifying” they are to tour heavily in the U.S., and in the late with a dedication that has never before “driving club audiences to a frenzy.” The fall made its first visit to Japan to promote been demonstrated by any band of this type group also appeared as part of a major the release of the debut record, which in the history of the rock world. feature on CBS Good Morning, which ran had sold nearly 7,000 copies the first few Lez Zeppelin is set to launch a full- nationwide, as well as on many other local months after release. In March 2009, Lez length tour of Europe, the U.S. and TV news spots in New York (ABC, WB) Zeppelin was invited to India by a major Japan in early 2015 to support “LEZ and across the country. network media task force to headline The ZEPPELIN I,” and to continue to deliver In April 2007, after extensive touring Concert for Mumbai, a benefit organized to a musical experience that not only exceeds in the U.S. and Europe, the band released buy ambulances which were sorely lacking expectations, but serves as the authentic its first album, Lez Zeppelin, which was in the aftermath of the terrorist bombings female counterpart to one of the greatest produced by Eddie Kramer, renowned in Mumbai. Again, Lez Zeppelin held rock groups of all time.
24 BTL | Nov. 12, 2015 www.PrideSource.com 12
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www.PrideSource.com Nov. 12, 2015 | BTL 25 Allie X Marks The Spot Singer Talks LGBT Community, Genre-Bending & Resisting The Thrall Of Los Angeles
BY SHELBY CLARK PETKUS PERFORMING Canadian singer-songwriter Allie X has Allie X quickly been making her mark on U.S. pop Doors 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18 charts since Katy Perry tweeted her obsession with the single “Catch” over the spring. The Shelter, Detroit Born Alexandra Ashley Hughes in Toronto, Tickets: $12 the singer crafted the Allie X persona prior to All ages welcome her newfound fame, creating a stage presence separate from a past that included schooling at Michigan’s prestigious Interlochen Arts content and in the sound design; I guess I don’t Academy where the likes of Betty Who, Josh really consider myself a pop artist ... I like to Groban and other artists have studied. say that I’m theatrical electronic dreampop.” Allie X spoke to BTL from Los Angeles With influences like Bjork, Sylvia Plath and prior to her upcoming tour stop in Detroit on Sia, among others, her mix of mainstream and Nov. 18 and was more than ready to step into eclectic sounds with heavier lyricism is likely her new self. to find a home in Detroit, known by many as “I don’t speak to my past, sorry,” she admits. the home of techno and house music. “Since I’ve become ‘X,’ this is the chapter of “I hear great things about the music scene my life that I feel comfortable talking about.” in Detroit,” she adds. “I know that there’s a As per her evolution into this “X” persona, lot of excitement around electronic music in the singer described the concept of “Feeling Detroit ... Not to say that I’m a true electronic X,” a name she gives to the development of artist, but I can expect that my audience will her current sunglasses-wearing incarnation enjoy my music.” One of her more recent singles, “Bitch,” again highlights X’s love of contradictions. “Bitch was a strange song. It was written Everyone’s tastes changes, very quickly, which isn’t usually the case for me; usually I labor over songs for a long and I never feel that sense of anger time,” she says. “But ‘Bitch’ happened in one “ day, and I just walked in a room in this house towards artists who radically change with a single drum machine and a single synth, their sound or put out an album that and with those limitations I kind of made it. I started improvising a melody over top, and doesn’t sound like their other albums, those words came out: ‘I’m your bitch; you’re you know? At the end of the day, if my bitch.’ And these very domestic kind of lyrics (came out); I never really analyzed it, I you’ve chosen to lead the torturous life just sort of did it and let it be. When it came to releasing the song, I did start to analyze of an artist, you should at least have it. I came to the conclusion that it was about the right to evolve as you see fit. the relationship with myself, and sort of the darker parts of myself versus the lighter parts of myself, and the compromise you have to make with yourself in order to just live a ” balanced life.” on her website. It’s quickly apparent that X does not “‘Feeling X’ is difficult to talk about,” separate her life goals from her music, noting she says, laughing. “I don’t meant to be that any future plans involve “finding the a difficult interview candidate here! But missing parts of myself and becoming a ‘feeling X’ is, in essence, an indescribable with darker lyrics – she mentions some hard labels for their sound, X thinks honestly peaceful person.” She finds herself getting feeling. It speaks to confusion and irony; I influences for this artistic collision. about the music “that naturally comes out of closer to this milestone with her success, like contradictory images ... what I like is “(If you haven’t) heard of Toilet Paper me.” noting, “My success has been in that I now being an image that is rather dark, but also magazine, you should check it out. It’s a great “My music has legs in a mainstream sense,” have an audience who I care about very much has sort of a wit about it.” When elaborating example of the kind of contradictory images she notes. “I believe that it does. I would like and who care about what I’m doing very much, on contradictory images – apparent in the I’m speaking of.” for as many people to hear my music as they and that’s made me feel fulfilled as an artist.” clash between her ethereally light pop sound Though some artists bristle at the need for can. Obviously, there’s differences in the lyric Allie X’s desire to keep in close touch with
26 BTL | Nov. 12, 2015 www.PrideSource.com All of my closest friends are queer, and it’s a social issue I’ve always cared“ about and I’ve always related to and I will always fight for. her inner self has carried over in her passionate the way I write songs has” changed slightly, support of the LGBT community. though I think for the most part it’s for the “All of my closest friends are queer, and better and I’m more efficient and more aware it’s a social issue I’ve always cared about and of melody and lyric and really what constitutes I’ve always related to and I will always fight good songs,” she reflects. “I also feel afraid for,” she says. She counts herself fortunate sometimes that I’m falling too much into the to surround herself with positivity around writing of pop music culture here and my ears the community as well, as she adds, “My are changing, so I always try and balance out perspective (of homophobia and anti-LGBT my co-writing sessions with me just working actions in the United States) is skewed at home in my studio like I used to do, so I’m because I am an artist, and I’ve only lived still creating things in a way that really comes in artistic hubs full of very liberal people. from me and my lyric brain.” So other than the news or the bullshit that Like with her development into Allie X, will you’ll see shared online, I don’t actually see L.A.’s influence shape her continued evolution that hatred. as an artist? “And in L.A., there hasn’t been too much of “Everyone’s tastes changes, and I never a difference,” she laughs. “Most of my friends feel that sense of anger towards artists who there (Toronto) are queer, most of my friends radically change their sound or put out an here are queer.” album that doesn’t sound like their other Despite the more liberal, artistic similarities albums, you know?” she says. “At the end of between her hometown and L.A., the singer the day, if you’ve chosen to lead the torturous acknowledges the differences she’s feeling on life of an artist, you should at least have the the west coast. right to evolve as you see fit.” “Since I’ve moved to L.A., I have noticed
www.PrideSource.com Nov. 12, 2015 | BTL 27 As part of its Second Stage Series, Eastern Michigan University presents “Head Full of appreciated. Nothing you read and Road, Warren. 586-268-3200. www. Snakes: Exploring Medusa.” The interpretive OUTINGS nothing you hear from her albums Andiamoshowroom.com prepares you for how entertaining a performance “spectacle” is mostly comprised Thursday, Nov. 12 performer she is.It has always seemed Sunday, Nov. 15 of original works, including a Sinatra-style song, as if there were two Cheryl Wheelers, Annual Awards Gala 6 p.m. Each Annual Jewish Book Fair The oldest Greek-style chorus, an intense monologue, November, the Ferndale Area Chamber with fans of the New England songwriter relishing watching the two tussle for and largest Jewish book fair in the interpretive dance and “good old-fashioned of Commerce honors the best of the nation. Jewish Community Center, 6600 best in business, and pays tribute control of the mic. There is poet-Cheryl, schtick.” writer of some of the prettiest, most W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield. 248- to outstanding members. The Gala 661-1900. [email protected] www. is held to celebrate the growth, new alluring and intelligent ballads on the The wide range of styles come together to explore the idea of Medusa in the performance, adapted modern folk scene. And there is her Jccdet.org/bookfair relationships, and generosity of and directed by Amy Johnson. Themes that will be touched on include gender, betrayal, identity, members. The night is accompanied evil twin, comic-Cheryl, a militant Dirty Dancing Tickets: $38+ Wharton with refreshments, entertainment, and trend defier and savagely funny social Center for the Performing Arts, Michigan power, beauty and truth. a silent auction. GALA Individual Ticket critic. The result is a delightful contrast State University, 750 E. Shaw Lane, ($50) GALA 4 Pack Tickets ($190) between poet and comic. Her concerts East Lansing. 800-WHARTON. www. “Head Full of Snakes: Exploring Medusa” will play at 7 p.m. on Nov. 13-14 and 2 p.m. Nov. 15. The GALA 10 Pack Tickets ($450) Ferndale are not only hysterical, but are also filled Whartoncenter.com work is recommended for mature audiences. Ticket prices for Second Stage shows are $7. The EMU Area Chamber of Commerce, 2201 with lyrical portraits often remembered Head Full of Snakes: Exploring Woodward Ave ., Ferndale . 248-542- for years to come. Tickets $20 public, Theatre is located at 103 Quirk, Ypsilanti. For tickets or more information, call 734-487-2282 or visit Medusa 2 p.m. An interpretive 2160. [email protected] www. $18 Ten Pound Fiddle Members, $5 performance that touches on themes www.emutix.com. Ferndaleareachamber.com/gala-2015. Students (more if you can, less if you of gender, power, beauty and more. html cant) Women in the Arts & Ten Pound Fiddle, 469 N Hagadorn, East Lansing. Recommended for mature audiences. Cheryl Wheeler in Concert 7 p.m. 517-449-8767. producer@witafestival. Eastern Michigan University, 103 Quirk, 3000. www.Ticketmaster.com Join HARCAPM for an evening of live Mobile Mammography Day Must A recording artist since the mid 80s, com http//www.witafestival.com/ Ypsilanti. 734-487-1220. music, a tasting of the seasons best be pre-registered. For women 40+. Cheryl is recognized as one of folk Livingston County PFLAG Monthly Monday, Nov. 16 wines courtesy of Everyday Wines, Institute for Population Health, 9053 musics premier and unforgettable acts. MAC Health 11 p.m. Michigan AIDS Meeting 2 p.m. Please join us for delicious hearty appetizers from Bona Woodward Ave., Detroit. 313-309- Her songs have been recorded by Bette Coalition (MAC), Detroit. www. Jazz in the Gallery 7:30 p.m. A local our monthly support group the third Sera and hand-crafted chocolates and 9303. www.Ipophealth.org Midler, Holly Near, Juice Newton and Michiganaidscoalition.org jazz ensemble, led by pianist and Sunday of every month at 2 p.m. confections by Sweet Gem Confections. Peter, Paul and Mary. Ticket price $15- vocalist Brandon Perkins, rehearses MAC Health 2 p.m. Michigan AIDS Livingston County PFLAG, 200 W St Tickets: $50-60. HARC & APM, 2275 20. Unitarian Universalist Congregation Saturday, Nov. 14 and holds casual jam sessions in the Platt Road, Ann Arbor. 734-572-9355 Coalition (MAC), Detroit. www. Paul St., Brighton. 517-548-0839. Pittmann-Puckett Gallery every Monday of Flint (UUCF), 2474 S. Ballenger Women in the Arts Festival (WITA) A 261. [email protected] Michiganaidscoalition.org [email protected] www. evening. Jazz in the Gallery is open to Highway, Flint. 810-232-4023. office@ celebration of regional women artists. Hivaidsresource.org/winecellar/ Facebook.com/pflaglivingston the public. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Free STI & Rapid HIV Testing 5 p.m. uuflint.org www.Uuflint.org Circe Productions and Sistrum, 469 N. Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, Trichomoniasis, Pride NA 6:30 p.m. Confidential and Mile Rd., Ferndale. (248) 398-7105. 11 p.m. Michigan AIDS Hagadorn, East Lansing. producer@ Friday, Nov. 20 Syphilis. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile MAC Health anonymous. Open to all individuals [email protected] http:// Coalition (MAC), 928 McNichols Road witafestival.com www.Witafestival.com Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. www. impacted by addiction. Kalamazoo Gay goaffirmations.org/programs-services/ Bistro Fridays Special menu. \aut\BAR, W, 313-863-3934. www. Goaffirmations.org Detroit. Kathy Griffin 10 p.m. Macomb Center and Lesbian Resource Center, 629 community-events-activities 315 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-994- Michiganaidscoalition.org for the Performing Arts, 44575 Garfield Pioneer St., Kalamazoo. 269-349- 3677. www.Autbar.com Dynamic Duo 10 p.m. 21+.Free. Road, Clinton Township. 586-286- 4234. www.Kglrc.org Tuesday, Nov. 17 MAC Health 11 p.m. Michigan AIDS Menjo’s, 928 McNichols Road W, Friday, Nov. 13 2222. Detroit. 313-863-3934. www. Indigo Girls 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $27-45. Treasure Screening 6 p.m. Free. Ruth Coalition (MAC), Detroit. www. Cheryl Wheeler Concert 8 p.m. Facebook.com/dynamicduoact Lisa Lampanelli 10 p.m. Andiamo Sound Board - Motor City Casino, 2901 Ellis Center, 77 Victor St., Highland Michiganaidscoalition.org Cheryl Wheeler has to be seen to be Celebrity Showroom, 7096 E. 14 Mile Grand River Ave., Detroit. 800-745- Park. www.Ruthelliscenter.org Saturday, Nov. 21 Wednesday, Nov. 25 Wednesday, Nov. 18 turnIT aut \aut\BAR, 315 Braun Ct., Ann Free Pool and $1 Off Beer \aut\BAR, Equality Knowledge Project Speaker Arbor. 734-994-3677. www.Autbar.com 315 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-994- Series 5:30 p.m. Different speaker 3677. www.Autbar.com Annual Black Tie Awards and and presentation each time. Equality MAC Health 10 a.m. Michigan AIDS Research Center, 329 King Hall, Homecoming 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $75. Detroit Repertory Theatre, 13103 Coalition (MAC), Detroit. www. Ypsilanti. 734-487-3032. equality. Michiganaidscoalition.org [email protected] Woodrow Wilson, Detroit. 313-868- 1347. Senior Koffee Klatch 1 p.m. A Affirmations Run Club 6 p.m. An discussion and networking group for informal group of runners and walkers Sunday, Nov. 22 people 45 and older. Various discussion of all abilities. Seasoned marathoners, Salsa Night Salsa lessons. $1 tacos. \ topics, social outings, bake-offs, and beginner walkers, and everything in potlucks are incorporated throughout between! Everyone is welcome, just aut\BAR, 315 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-994-3677. www.Autbar.com the year. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile show up! Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Rd., Ferndale. khug@goaffirmations. Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. TransCend TransCend provides support org http://goaffirmations.org/programs- [email protected] www. and resources to the Southwest services/support-discussion-groups Goaffirmations.org/programs-services/ Michigan transgender community, their community-events-activities significant others, family, friends, and LGBT Know Your Rights Project 3 p.m. allies. Meetings occur twice per month Jim Toy Community Center, 319 Braun Thursday, Nov. 19 on the 2nd Wednesday and 4th Sunday. Court, Ann Arbor. 734-995-9867. www.Jimtoycommunitycenter.org MAC Health 1 a.m. Michigan AIDS Kalamazoo Gay and Lesbian Resource Coalition (MAC), Detroit. www. Center, 629 Pioneer St., Kalamazoo. MAC Health 6 p.m. Michigan AIDS Michiganaidscoalition.org 269-349-4234. www.Kglrc.org Coalition (MAC), 290 W. Nine Mile So You Think You Can Dance 7 p.m. Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. www. Faith Alliance Meeting 12 p.m. Michiganaidscoalition.org Welcoming new members who would Tickets: $43+. Wharton Center for like to be involved with the intersection the Performing Arts, Michigan State Queer People of Color 6 p.m. QPOC of faith, sexual orientation, and gender University, 750 E. Shaw Lane, East hopes to be a supportive radical identity. Kalamazoo Gay and Lesbian Lansing. 800-WHARTON. www. environment for people of color that are Resource Center, 2208 Winchell Ave., Whartoncenter.com part of the LGBTQIA+ community. The Kalamazoo. www.Kglrc.org coalition will support conversation about Monday, Nov. 23 issues that face our community, build Connections 6 p.m. Open to all LGBTQ friendships and, furthermore, serve the and Ally youth from 13-18.Join us to LGBT Sexual Assault Survivors Groups 5:30 p.m. Any member of the greater Kalamazoo area. Kalamazoo meet other LGBTQ and Ally teens and Gay and Lesbian Resource Center, 629 socialize in a safe space. Kalamazoo LGBT community, age 13-24, who is a survivor of sexual assault is welcome. Pioneer St., Kalamazoo. 269-349- Gay and Lesbian Resource Center, 629 4234. www.Kglrc.org Pioneer St., Kalamazoo. 269-349- This group is open to all LGBTQIAP 4234. www.Kglrc.org individuals who have experienced any Yours Truly, John Waters 7 p.m. form of sexual assault in their lifetime. A different John Waters film every The Parent Network 6 p.m. This group Kalamazoo Gay and Lesbian Resource week. Michigan Theatre, 233 State aims to assist parents in understanding Center, 629 Pioneer St., Kalamazoo. St., Ann Arbor. 734-668-TIME. www. their child’s identity, while also giving 269-345-5595. nschneider@ Michigantheater.org parents the opportunity to socialize with ywcakalamazoo.org www.Kglrc.org other adults who have LGBT children Thursday, Nov. 26 Kalamazoo Gay and Lesbian Resource Tuesday, Nov. 24 Center, 629 Pioneer St., Kalamazoo. A Streetcar Named Desire The 269-349-4234. www.Kglrc.org Karaoke and Half Off Wine \aut\BAR, Ringwald Theatre, 22742 Woodward 315 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-994- 12th Annual Wine Cellar 6:30 p.m. 3677. www.Autbar.com See Happenings, page 27
28 BTL | Nov. 12, 2015 www.PrideSource.com Screen Queen
world should not be a thing. emotions react to a variety This is an important detail of Riley’s new surroundings because this is a movie about as the once-newborn kisses men who dry hump metal her youth goodbye and faces poles. What conceals their those inevitable growing bits is a supporting character. pains. This is a cute, colorful, And the stripping itself – emotional film – one of Pixar’s wait, what stripping? There’s best. Kids will adore it. It hot-and-heavy dancing, makes important assertions, to that song “Pony”... in a like, without Sadness we workshop... with a saw, but couldn’t fully appreciate Joy. rarely do clothes come off. But the film resonates on a Rarely is there nudity. THIS different, deeper level for IS A STRIPPING MOVIE adults – for anyone missing AND THE PEOPLE WANT that special imaginary friend NAKEDNESS. But whatever. who embodied childhood If you have high expectations innocence. The ones wishing for “Magic Mike 2,” just stick they were still pulling their to Sean Cody. This is not your little red wagon. In those movie. But if you want Joe nostalgic memory-laden Manganiello, as Big Dick moments, we are all Riley, Richie, giving a not-having- and we are all experiencing it store clerk a good time the full range of misty-eyed with his trusty Cheetos and a emotions as we reflect on bottle of water? Matt Bomer’s letting go and growing up. overdone hippy-dippy Among the release’s two-disc character, Ken, sexing up the extras: “Lava,” the sweet stage as he sings D’Angelo? short about two lovestruck BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI with another gay hustler, The whole hot herd voguing volcanos; hand-drawn deleted Scott Favor (Keanu Reeves, at a drag club? Then get those scenes with commentary; also impressive). Their $20s out. Behind the scenes, and interviews with voice My Own Private Idaho companionship unfolds both we get to meet one very lucky actresses Amy Poehler, Mindy Two years before a drug beautifully and tragically, choreographer. Channing Kaling and the wonderful-as- overdose ended River most memorably amidst Tatum grinds her. You know, Sadness Phyllis Smith. Phoenix’s life in 1993, the the crackling of a campfire just another day on the job. dreamboat poeticized a and the sound of a breaking tortured gay street hustler heart. Thanks to Criterion The Gift with gutting sorrow in out Collection, the Blu-ray New home. Happy couple. director Gus Van Sant’s debut of “My Own Private Dog. Shower. In “The Gift,” groundbreaking queer-cinema Idaho” includes a candid you know inevitable stranger classic, “My Own Private conversation with Van Sant danger looms just around the Idaho.” The actor’s piercing and fellow filmmaker Todd twisted and twisty corner, eyes and windblown hair Haynes focusing on various each shot a setup for the messy were as aesthetically pleasing elements of the film and fallout. When Gordo (Joel as Van Sant’s languidly shot its enduring impact as one Edgerton, who also wrote rural landscapes. The quiet of the earliest “New Queer and directed the film) comes countryside, the time-lapsing Cinema Movement” films. into the picture, creepily clouds. But it’s Phoenix’s Also included are a lengthy Inside Out stopping by unannounced lonely, lived-in performance documentary, an interview with presents, it’s only a Oh, emotions. Those crazy, that, to this day, and especially with Phoenix’s sister Rain and matter of time before things complicated things that among those in the LGBT an extensive booklet featuring go awry. Another shower occupy our messy minds community with intensely archival interviews. scene. The dog again. When – they have lives of their emotional connections to weird stuff starts happening, own, don’t they? In Pixar’s the film, is heralded as a Gordo’s former classmate, moving new classic “Inside spellbinding turn for the then- Magic Mike 2 Simon (an intensely serious Out,” they even have names: 21-year-old actor. As Mike Jason Bateman), tries to Butt floss was sexy before the Joy, Sadness, Fear, Anger Waters, he is broken and keep his distance, but one by jockstrap out-sexied it, but and Disgust. Since birth, lost. His mother is gone. The one, the gifts keep coming; the ’90s are dead and Sisqó they’ve occupied Riley’s man he loves doesn’t love Simon’s too-nice wife, Robyn is not popular anymore. So, noggin, overseeing every him. And exacerbating his (Rebecca Hall), though, let’s retire the thong, OK? life-changing evolution as crippled state is his long battle is charmed by Gordo’s The skivvies the “Magic she faces those difficult tween with narcolepsy. Searching Mike 2” men don around their weirdness... and the gifts. for his mother – and himself years. You know the ones. And you-know-whats in Channing during those years, the film’s – Mike sets off on the road Tatum’s cinematic gift to the See Screen Queen, page 26 www.PrideSource.com Nov. 12, 2015 | BTL 29 ® Screen Queen the world, the end. When does the Continued from page 25 Also Out third one come out again? Among Cinderella (2015) a plentiful heap of special features: For a while, anyway. As Gordo’s motives a behind-the-scenes feature with Anyone still grappling with the become clear, the characters come undone, director Elizabeth Banks. challenging our fact that Angelina Jolie turned initial perceptions Maleficent into a wounded saint and then in the dreadful film of the same smashing them name, fear not. “Cinderella” at least to smithereens. remains faithful to its source, and The movie’s Cate Blanchett knows not to screw mind bends make with an evil icon. As the stepmother, Edgerton’s film a Blanchett is masterfully torturous, top-notch thriller, while the lovable Lily James, as toying with your Cinderella, imbues authenticity expectations all as she channels the film’s two the way through constants: courage and kindness. that doozy of an ending. It wraps with the Helena Bonham Carter also stars, highest caliber of ’90s-thriller, leave-you- radiating the winsome aura of the speechless crazy, messing with your mind Fairy Godmother, “bippity boppity boo” and all. This live-action take as much as your moral compass. “The Gift,” Aladdin in all its demented deliciousness, certainly on the legendary 1950 “Cinderella” is a gift. Extras include a wisely-changed is handsomely rendered and lovingly It’s true – there won’t ever be alternate ending, some deleted scenes and retold, and if that and Blanchett still another “friend like him.” As the an Edgerton commentary. aren’t doing it for you, there’s always Genie, Robin Williams wasn’t just the magic happening in the prince’s the wish-making magic behind Spy pants. The “Frozen Fever” short is one of Disney’s classics – he was See big woman run. See big woman fall. included among a slight collection the big, beating heart. Williams’ See big woman try to hop a fence and fail. of extras. Genie is still one of Disney’s most So funny, right? … No? Uninspired weight- celebrated sidekicks, boosting the centric punchlines have been the bread fun factor to extremes (even doing and butter of Melissa McCarthy’s IMDB drag) as he grants a misunderstood after her “Bridesmaids” breakthrough in street criminal, Aladdin, three 2011, cheapening the actress’ natural comic wishes. Naturally, there’s a pretty instincts. But leave your Melissa McCarthy girl, Jasmine. Aladdin pines for hate at the door. “Spy” is a game-changer her, they sing a song (“A Whole Please patronize our advertisers New World” is just as sweet as Please use our advertisers and let for McCarthy skeptics, as Paul Feig’s and let them know you sharply scripted comedy gives the actress you remember it), and it’s all so them know you appreciate their her best big-screen role yet. Fine with just enchanting. Supplements include appreciate their support for the blending in, McCarthy’s Susan Cooper is several Genie-centric features, as support for the LGBT community! a frumpy middle-aged CIA analyst with filmmakers reflect on Williams’ LGBT community! a schoolgirl crush on her hunky partner, “warmth.” Agent Bradley Fine (Jude Law). When The Rocky Horror Picture Show she’s compelled to step in, Cooper puts on her brave belt and How’s this for a time warp: It’s goes undercover, been 40 years since newlyweds disguising Pitch Perfect 2 Janet (Susan Sarandon) and Brad (Barry Bostwick) stumbled upon a herself in some Crushed it? Not quite. Even Rebel transvestite scientist’s sex chamber really hideous Wilson, who returns to steal scenes in the film version of the 1973 costumes, one from her co-stars as Fat Amy, can’t London-produced musical romp. of which, she give this off-pitch sequel enough of And talk about a “hello from the jokes, resembles that Rebel Wilson-y ridiculousness other side” – things get weird. A a “homophobic for the film to achieve the same queer cast of freewheeling fishnet- aunt.” Laughs novel flair of the original. Wilson clad eccentrics spice up the otherwise don’t let up, is fine and funny enough, but the spice-less lives of Janet and Brad – especially during script doesn’t hit many high notes. and anyone else needing to let their two of the film’s funniest scenes – one on The Aussie fave’s only truly die- guard and girdle down. Can’t get a plane, another at a fancy restaurant – from-laughing scene? A cheesy enough of the cult classic’s delicious involving McCarthy and her “Bridesmaids” showstopper wherein she belts Pat tastelessness? With a feature on the co-star Rose Byrne, who plays Susan’s Benatar’s “We Belong” on a boat; shadow cast craze, along with from- diva-haired nemesis Rayna Boyanov. it ends with a make-out session, a the-vault extras like outtakes and a Luckily, there’s no shortage of supplements, parody of every big, goopy rom- sing-along (as if you don’t already with bloopers, character-centric features, com climax. As for the rest of the know it by heart), the Blu-ray will a making-of, and alternate and extended Barden Bellas, they’re vying for rock your world. scenes. The best? Watching Byrne hold it another title, they do “Cups” by together while McCarthy goes on a wine the campfire (awww), a new girl ramble. joins, Anna Kendrick moves up in
30 BTL | Nov. 12, 2015 www.PrideSource.com The HIV/AIDS Resouce Center (HARC) newly merged with AIDS Partnership Michigan (APM) will host the 12th Annual Wine Cellar in Ann Arbor. The evening will consist of live music, a tasting of the season’s best wines courtesy of Everyday Wines, delicious hearty appetizers from Bona Sera and hand-crafted chocolates and confections by Sweet Gem Confections. A silent and fast live auction will add to the evening’s excitement, as will live jazz by The Jesse Kramer Trio. At the heart of the event is a raffle of over 100 bottles of wine donated by celebrities, wine collectors, bon vivants, sports figures and chefs. Over 50 bottles of wine go to one lucky winner – an instant wine cellar. Reservations for the event are $50 in advance and $60 at the door. Raffle tickets are $10 each. The 12th Annual Wine Cellar will begin at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19 at Vineyard Church, 2275 Platt Road, Ann Arbor. Visit www.hivaidsresource.org/winecellar to make reservations or call HARCs office at 734-572-9355 for more information, including how to purchase raffle tickets. Please RSVP by Friday, Nove. 13. For more information, contact Development Director, Chris McMullen, at 734-572-9355, ext. 261 or cmcmullen@ hivaidsresource.org
® Happenings Fourth St., Royal Oak. Nov. 15. 248-399- Africas greatest bands. A true voice of his Continued from page 24 2980. www.Royaloakmusictheatre.com generation, Youssou is known as much for his musical talents as for his strong Royal Oak Music Theatre “Craig political advocacy. After running for Senegals Ferguson” 18+.Tickets: $45-65. Royal Ave., Ferndale. 248-545-5545. www. presidential seat in 2012, Youssou earned Oak Music Theatre, 318 W. Fourth St., Theringwald.com a spot on TIME magazines annual list of the Royal Oak. 7 p.m. Nov. 15. 248-399-2980. hundred men and women whose power, Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol www.Royaloakmusictheatre.com talent, or moral examples are transforming Williamston Theatre, 122 S. Putnam St., the world. Hill Auditorium, 825 N. University Williamston. 517-655-SHOW. www. Concerts Ave., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. Nov. 14. 734-764- Williamstontheatre.com Blind Pig “Turquoise Jeep” 18+.Tickets: 2538. Ums.org/performance/youssou-ndour- Trivia with Terry and Thirsty Thursday $15. Blind Pig, 208 S. First St., Ann Arbor. and-super-etoile-de-dakar/ Half off beer and well drinks with student 10 p.m. Nov. 14. 734-996-8555. www. ID. \aut\BAR, 315 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. Blindpigmusic.com Other 734-994-3677. www.Autbar.com The Ark “Willie Nile” Tickets: $20. The Sound Board - Motor City Casino “Night MAC Health 2 p.m. Mondays by Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. of Knockouts VI” Tickets: $20-150. Sound appointment only. Michigan AIDS Nov. 13. 734-761-1800. www.Theark.org Board, 2901 Grand River Ave., Detroit. Coalition (MAC), Ferndale. www. 7 p.m. Nov. 12. 800-745-3000. www. Michiganaidscoalition.org The Ark “Colin Gilmore Band” Tickets: Motorcitycasino.com $15. Free at the door to members at the Solo level and above. The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. Nov. 18. 734-761- MUSIC & MORE 1800. www.Theark.org THEATER The Magic Bag “Lez Zeppelin” Tickets: Almost, Maine A real romantic comedy. $20. The Magic Bag, 22920 Woodward The Blind Pig “Vanessa Carlton” 18+. Tickets: $14-16. Spotlight Players, The Ave., Ferndale. Jan. 31 - Nov. 14. 248- Tickets: $25-30. Blind Pig, 208 S. First St., Village Theater, 50400 Cherry Hill Road, 544-3030. www.Themagicbag.com Ann Arbor. 9 p.m. Nov. 13. 734-996-8555. Canton. 8 a.m. Nov. 13. 734-394-5300. www.Blindpigmusic.com www.Dpotlightplayersmi.org Classical The Shelter “Allie X”. The Shelter, 431 Herb the Green Knight . Detroit Repertory Detroit Symphony Orchestra E. Congress St., Detroit. Nov. 18. www. Theatre, 13103 Woodrow Wilson, Detroit. “Debussy’s Sensuous La Mer”. Max M. Livenation.com Through Dec. 27. 313-868-1347. Fisher Music Center, 3711 Woodward Ave., UMS “Youssou NDour and Super toile de National Theatre Live Shakespeares Detroit. Nov. 12 - Nov. 14. 313-576-5111. Dakar” When You gives a concert, everything Hamlet High-Definition Broadcasts from www.Dso.org jumps he brings entire stadiums to their feet. National Theatre, London. University UMS “Leif Ove Andsnes, piano” Tickets: Fusing traditional Senegalese percussion Musical Society, Michigan Theater, 603 E. $10-65. Hill Auditorium, 825 N. University and griot singing with Afro-Cuban and Liberty St., Ann Arbor. 7 p.m. Nov. 15. 734- Ave., Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. Nov. 20. 734- indigenous dancepop flavors that fluidly 764-2538. www.Ums.org/performance/ 764-2538. www.Ums.org/performance/ cross borders and genres, Youssou NDour nt-live-hamlet/ leif-ove-andsnes-piano/ is a passionate singer and composer who leads one of Africas greatest bands. A true The Passenger . Michigan Opera Theatre, University Musical Society “Leif Ove voice of his generation, Youssou is known Detroit Opera House, 1526 Broadway St., Andsnes, piano” Sibelius Kyllikki Three as much for his musical talents as for his Detroit. Nov. 14 - Nov. 22. 313-237-SING. Pieces, Op. 41The Birch, Op. 75, No. 4. strong political advocacy. After running www.Motopera.org The Spruce, Op. 75, No. 5. The Forest for Senegals presidential seat in 2012, Lake, Op. 114, No. 3. Song in the Forest, Youssou earned a spot on TIME magazines Op. 114, No. 4. Spring Vision, Op. 114, No. annual list of the hundred men and women ART ‘N’ AROUND 5 Beethoven Sonata No. 18 in E-flat Major, whose power, talent, or moral examples DIA “30 Americans” Detroit Institute of Op. 31, No. 3 The Hunt Debussy La soiree are transforming the world. Tickets $10-60. Arts, 2100 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Oct. 1 dans Grenade from Estampes. Etudes Nos. Hill Auditorium, 825 N. University Ave., Ann - Jan. 18. 313-833-7900. www.Dia.org 5, 6, and 11 Chopin Etude in A-flat Major Arbor. 8 p.m. Nov. 14. 734-764-2538. www. from Trois nouvelles etudes. Impromptu Ums.org/performance/youssou-ndour-and- MOCAD “The Sick Man of Europe” in A-flat Major, Op. 29Nocturne in F Major, super-etoile-de-dakar/ Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit, Op. 15, No. 1Ballad No. 4 in f minor, Op. 4454 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Oct. 52. Hill Auditorium, 825 N. University Ave., University Musical Society “Youssou 27 - Jan. 3. 313-832-6622. www. Ann Arbor. 8 p.m. Nov. 20. 734-764-2538. NDour and Super toile de Dakar” When Mocadetroit.org Ums.org/performance/leif-ove-andsnes- You gives a concert, everything jumps he MOCAD “United States of Latin piano/ brings entire stadiums to their feet. Fusing traditional Senegalese percussion and griot America” Museum of Contemporary Art singing with Afro-Cuban and indigenous Detroit, 4454 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Comedy dancepop flavors that fluidly cross borders Sep. 23 - Jan. 3. 313-832-6622. www. AEG Live “Craig Ferguson” The New Deal and genres, Youssou NDour is a passionate Mocadetroit.org Tour. Royal Oak Music Theatre, 318 W. singer and composer who leads one of
www.PrideSource.com Nov. 12, 2015 | BTL 31 Deep Inside Hollywood BY ROMEO SAN VICENTE knowledgeable fans of killer animal movies no dates are set. That means it’s time to begin know better: think “Grizzly,” that 1976 ripoff politely pestering them. ‘King Cobra’ will bring you of “Jaws” about a giant ursine killer, or, in the words of that cheap B-movie’s lurid ad YouTube stars hit ‘Dirty Thirty’ porn, murder and James campaign, “18 feet of gut-crunching, man- eating terror.” Come to think of it, “Grizzly” We don’t know if you’re allowed to be a Franco was kind of a horror comedy, too. Anyway, YouTube sensation after thirty, but if all goes James Franco, in his seemingly never- “Bear With Us,” from indie filmmaker William as planned, the trio of Hannah Hart, Mamrie ending quest to confer gayness upon himself J. Stribling, is currently in production, and Hart and Grace Helbig will have moved on via association, is producing what is sure to will also feature – although we don’t know to bigger things when their next film, “Dirty be a shocker of a movie called “King Cobra.” exactly what this means at the moment – “the Thirty,” is digitally released by Lionsgate. The film, directed by Justin Kelly – who voice of” “Orange is The New Black” star Lea The YouTube stars – lesbian comic Hannah also worked with Franco on the upcoming Delaria. Mysterious Hart’s “My Drunk Kitchen” is a favorite there “I Am Michael” – will tell the ugly story of – have already had a streaming hit with “Camp the 2007 murder of gay adult film producer Gay spying on Ben Whishaw Takota,” so Lionsgate decided to snap them up Bryan Kocis, who had worked with gay for this next project, which is about a birthday porn star Brent Corrigan. Franco will act in “London Spy,” airing very soon in the party gone wild. There’s no other information the film, alongside Christian Slater (who’ll U.K. on the BBC, sounds like just the ticket available yet, but the pattern of millennial play Kocis), Molly Ringwald and Disney for all the “Sherlock” fans out there. Bond female comics using the Internet to launch Channel’s “Teen Beach” and “Teen Beach 2” film regular Whishaw plays a gay young man themselves is set thanks to breakout hits like Cheyenne Jackson. Photo: Kath Click alum Garrett Clayton as Corrigan. That last bit deeply involved in London nightlife, who “Broad City,” and this feels like the beginning of casting makes perfect sense in a Vanessa- then finds himself in an unlikely romantic of big things for these young women. The Hudgins-and-Selena-Gomez-starring-in- “Bear With Us,” starring Cheyenne Jackson, relationship with a man from the British Secret countdown to more famous funny people “Spring Breakers” way. Can’t wait for this one has absolutely nothing to do with “bears” Intelligence Service (Edward Holcroft, from jumping on their bandwagon begins now. to make us all feel creepy and upset. as they are commonly understood in the “Kingsman: The Secret Service”). When that man dies, Whishaw’s character is whisked into complex taxonomy of gay subcultures. No, Romeo San Vicente’s kitchen features what might be this horror comedy is about an actual bear. the world of espionage to uncover the truth. ‘Bear With’ Cheyenne Jackson The five-part miniseries was written by gay considered a surprising number of carb-rich treats for An actual angry, murderous and hungry bear someone with such perfect abdominal muscles. You that happens upon a charming cabin in the writer Tom Rob Smith and is directed by Jakob and Lea Delaria mad? He can be reached care of this publication or at woods where a couple is getting engaged. The Verbruggen (“The Fall”). Right now the show [email protected]. Perhaps shockingly, the upcoming film official word is “think “Jaws,” with a bear,” but is mentioned on BBC America’s website, but
32 BTL | Nov. 12, 2015 www.PrideSource.com Q Puzzle Down 11 Part of a “Tommy” lyric 40 Ramirez of “Grey’s Anatomy” 12 Orgasm, e.g. 41 Meat source Down Under 13 Select, with “for” 42 Caught at a gay rodeo 21 Puts out 44 Spill one’s seed 22 “___ first you don’t...” 45 Umpire Dave 26 Cut down to size 47 Homo chaser? 27 Resort lake 49 Hosp. scan 28 Bottomless 50 Verlaine’s name 29 Humorist Bombeck 51 6-0 for Mauresmo 30 2015 film named for a street 55 Mason portrayer Burr 32 They could come from 59 “There oughta be ___” Uranus 60 Costar’ s last name in 30- 34 30-Down, to 20-Across Down 35 Drop ___ (moon) 62 “If ___ I Would Leave You” 36 Tools for woody targets 63 Avis adjective 38 Toto’s home st. 64 Contest venue 39 Suffix with law 65 Q to a Scrabble player 42 Big sticks 66 “Blowjob” filmer Warhol 43 Say “She’s just a friend” to a 67 Title character for Barbra jealous lover, e.g. 68 Emmy award winner Ward 46 Street named for Liberace? 48 Houston’s WNBA team Down 51 Angelina’s tomb-raiding role Street Smart 52 Wife of Buck’s Wang 1 Professional voyeur? 53 Auction site 20 He played a closeted gay Across 2 Prepares to serve at the 54 Receptacle weight man in 30-Down Manhole 55 Musical critics were torn 1 Where men might sweat 23 Uttered obscenities 3 Straight as an ___ together about? 24 “The Deep Six” actor 4 Footwear for Aspen 5 “The Silence of the ___” 56 Shrinking sea Zimbalist 5 “My Fair Lady” lyricist 10 Bygone pump name 57 Foster title role 25 Craig Claiborne’s gumbo pod 6 Own up to 14 Type of sword 58 De Matteo of “Desperate 27 Peter I, for one 7 Prefix for care 15 Turn inside out Housewives” 28 They’re outstanding 8 Songwriter Jacques 16 “Ed Wood” star Johnny 61 Boy toy? 31 A woman named Arthur 9 Wraps for female 17 Doctor Zhivago 33 Fouls, to the Pinball Wizard impersonators Find solution to this puzzle at 18 Where to see chaps in chaps 37 Matchmaker of myth 10 Oscar nominee for “The www.pridesource.com 19 AIDS flick “Under ___ “ 38 Costar’ s first name in 30- Hours”
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