Aclu Sues Gov. Snyder for Discrimination

FREE | JAN. 12, 2012 | VOL. 2002

THE POWER OF LESBIAN INDIE ‘PARIAH’

DRAG QUEENS FACE OFF DURING BENEFIT

BTL EDITORIAL: LET’S PROTEST JAN. 18

ACLU SUES GAY FAMILIES GOV. SNYDER FOR DISCRIMINATION STRIKE BACK PRIDESOURCE.COM 2 BTL \ January 12, 2012 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com January 12, 2012 / BTL 3 1.12.2012

7 15 20 Cover Story Life 4 | Domestic Partner Health Care Ban 15 | The Power of ‘Pariah’ challenged in federal court, discriminatory Star, out director talk coming-of-age film animus cited – and how other LGBT teens can relate ACLU: “We cannot stand idly by” 16 | Book Marks News Reviews of “98 Wounds” and “Fit to Serve” 20 | Queens to the rescue 7 | OBITUARY: Mark Bidwell Drag face-off to benefit LGBT community Pastor embroiled in scandal leaves behind legacy of good works that cannot be denied 22 | Out of Town Maui, Lanai and Molokai 9 | ‘Moral exception’ senator gives Michigan another black eye 23 | Theater “Nunset Boulevard” is habit-ual fun 9 | Traverse City rejects anti-gay bill H.B. 5039 24 | Happenings 9 | Dems to hold endorsement convention Featured: Faith and the LGBT Community on Jan. 12 at Affirmations 10 | Donna Brazile to deliver keynote at WSU tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. Rear View 11 | Local leaders visit White House 26 | Classifieds 12 | Santorum success in Iowa likely to 26 | Dating Diet increase gay-related debate 27 | Horoscopes 14 | Fed redefines definition of rape 28 | Puzzle Opinions 29 | Cocktail Chatter 6 | BTL Editorial Let’s do something about it! 30 | General Gayety 8 | Heard on Facebook JOIN THE CONVERSATION 8 | S/he Said Email your op–eds and letters to 2012 presidential election [email protected] 10 | Parting Glances Angel Bruce’s Platinum Plates Chat on our FB Fan Page. Search “Between The Lines Newspaper” 12 | Creep of the Week Rick Santorum (Again!) Get breaking news updates. Follow us @YourBTL

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ACLU: ‘We cannot stand idly by’

BY KATE OPALEWSKI “This is the most shameful DETROIT – The Michigan ACLU and cruel law that Michigan announced Jan. 4, they have filed a federal lawsuit against Gov. Rick Snyder to strike down has seen in a long time.” a new state law that bans many public entities from providing health insurance to same-sex domestic partners. “This is the most shameful and cruel law - Michael J. Steinberg, Michigan that Michigan has seen in a long time,” said ACLU Legal Director about the Michael J. Steinberg, Michigan ACLU Legal Director about the Public Employee Domestic Public Employee Domestic Partner Partner Benefit Restriction Act, signed by Gov. Snyder on Dec 22, 2011. The lawsuit was filed Benefit Restriction Act, signed by on behalf of school teachers, city and county workers and their domestic partners who will Gov. Snyder on Dec 22, 2011. lose their health insurance as a result of the law. “We cannot stand idly by while politicians undermine the value of equality and fairness that important, what really hurts is the message...that make this state great. This law creates a hostile this is not a place where you are welcome simply environment for many of our residents to work because of who you are. We want to stay here, and live. We, working with our clients and people but simply won’t be able to for emotional and of good will in this state, will do our very best to financial reasons if this law isn’t overturned,” restore some measure of common decency and said Bloss, an Ingham County employee. equality to this state,” said Steinberg. Ascheri said it is “shocking” to feel second- The lawsuit, Bassett et al. v Snyder, was class again as he left his oppressive life behind filed on behalf of four same-sex couples who in Argentina and became a U.S. citizen on June will face real hardship trying to find affordable 15, 2010. “This law is appalling. It is beyond and comprehensive health care plans given belief. It goes against all principles and ideals this their current health conditions such as high country is founded on and I am very grateful for blood pressure, breast cancer, glaucoma and the ACLU and that they are challenging it,” said rheumatoid arthritis. Ascheri, a self-employed piano teacher. Under the terms of the act, which took With his nine-year-old daughter Aliza at immediate effect as early as Jan. 2, many of his side, Ann Arbor school teacher Peter Ways Michigan’s gay and lesbian public employees explained what a hard lessen this has been for have already been stripped or will soon be him and his partner of 20 years, Joe Breakey, a stripped of family health care coverage for their self-employed licensed therapist. domestic partners. “Our family is under attack. It is clear to “This law serves no purpose other than me that it is time for us to fight back. I thank the to single out a small minority of people and ACLU for putting forward their legal challenge. I to deprive them of critical protections that thank the many supporters who have voiced their are available to all other family members. support. I have no personal desire for publicity, This law is wrong, it’s discriminatory, and it’s neither does Joe. It is only upon long reflection ACLU LGBT Project Attorney Jay Kaplan addressing the press Jan. 4 as Michael J. Steinberg, Michigan ACLU unconstitutional,” said Jay Kaplan, Michigan and consultation with family and friends that Joe Legal Director . BTL photos: Andrew Potter ACLU LGBT Project staff attorney. “We believe and I have honored Aliza’s request to be here and that the act violates their equal protection rights to make her voice heard. Commission determines compensation and employees with domestic partners who can marry under the 14th Amendment as well as interferes If by raising our voices we can help our the benefits for state employees. “This does in order to continue their eligibility under the with their fundamental rights and protected political leaders to make better decisions then not save the state any money on benefits for law, Michigan does not permit, nor recognize liberty interests.” we are here to be counted,” said Ways. its own employees. It only prohibits school the marriage of same-sex couples. Government Cost is a major concern for Doak Bloss and Although the application of the law needs districts and municipalities from voluntarily employers remain free to offer health insurance his partner Gerardo Ascheri of East Lansing as clarification, Steinberg weighed in stating providing benefits because they believe it’s in benefits to all other family members, such as they will pay an additional $8,000 to $10,000 per that universities are exempt because they are the best interest of the school district and the parents, siblings, uncles and cousins. municipality,” said Steinberg. year for individual health insurance coverage. an autonomous entity under the Michigan See ACLU, page 10 “Even though the financial implications are constitution. The Michigan Civil Service But, Kaplan said, unlike heterosexual HAD ENOUGH? LET’S TAKE A STAND - BE SEEN and HEARD GAY FAMILES MATTER Join together at the State Capitol Building in Lansing Wednesday, January 18 at Noon Protest the recent legislative attacks on LGBT people in Michigan Enough is ENOUGH! Organized by MICHIGAN LGBT COMMUNITY CENTER NETWORK Currently in formation and includes:

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PUBLISHERS Susan Horowitz & Jan Stevenson Let’s do something about it!

EDITORIAL BY JAN STEVENSON AND SUSAN HOROWITZ We will add our voices and our editorial Editor in Chief pages to the cry for equality and justice. We Gov. Rick Synder lied when he Susan Horowitz t BTL, we have reached an extreme will do so on Jan. 18, and every day thereafter [email protected] level of anger and disgust at our current until LGBT people in Michigan are recognized said during last year’s campaign Entertainment Editor political environment in Michigan. as full citizens. that he was not interested in Chris Azzopardi AWe believe strongly it is time – now – to do This Jan. 18 action is called for by an [email protected] something, to protest the passage of blatantly impressive coalition of the many LGBT “social issues” and would focus Arts & Theater Editor discriminatory laws and out-right attacks community centers in Michigan. Affirmations his political capital on rebuilding Donald V. Calamia, on our community. That is why we will join in Ferndale, Jim Toy Center in Ann Arbor, The [email protected] other LGBT leaders at the State Capitol at Network in Grand Rapids, The Kalamazoo Michigan’s economy. On Dec. 22, Calendar Editor noon on Jan. 18 to raise our voices against the Resource Center, Kick-Detroit, Perceptions Benjamin Jenkins deplorable state of our State for LGBT citizens. in Saginaw/Midland, the Ruth Ellis Center 2011 he lost all his credibility [email protected] Gov. Snyder will deliver his State of the Detroit and the Out Center in Benton Harbor when he became the first and State speech that same day, and before he have banded together to bring as many fair- CREATIVE goes to the podium we want him to hear from minded people as possible to the capitol to only governor in America to us that the State he has created for LGBT Art Director protest, to be seen and to be recognized by David Ano, [email protected] families is unacceptable. We want him to the politicians in Lansing. It is exciting to strip domestic partner benefits understand that the attacks, the animosity and witness these groups working together for a Webmaster & MIS Director from public employees. Kevin Bryant, [email protected] the shunning of LGBT citizens is hurting not common cause. It is also heartening to see this just us, but everyone who cares about equality coalition cooperating with Equality Michigan Contributing Writers and fairness. and the ACLU towards a unified message and Charles Alexander, Michelle E. Brown, Zach Childree, Jack Fertig, Lisa Keen, Michigan is fast becoming known as movement in our state. Jeremy Martin, Anthony Paull, Andrea Poteet, a bastion of discrimination and restricted We want to applaud the ACLU’s recent that make up the movement to eventual Crystal Proxmire, Bob Roehr, opportunity, just when it would behoove us lawsuit against Gov. Rick Synder, who lied equality. Direct action is necessary too, Hannah Schwab, Jody Valley, most to be open, accepting and encouraging when he said during last year’s campaign that particularly at this time when the opposition D’Anne Witkowski, Rex Wockner, Dan Woog of new ideas, new people and new energy. he was not interested in “social issues” and acts with impunity, as if they can pass the Cartoonists Significant employers, especially in high tech would focus his political capital on rebuilding most outrageous laws with no negative Paul Berg, Dave Brousseau, Joan Hilty industries, know that extending benefits to the Michigan’s economy. On Dec. 22, 2011 he lost consequences. On Jan. 18, it will be up to us Contributing Photographers families of their LGBT employees is not only all his credibility when he became the first and to begin to create a negative consequence for Andrew Potter the fair thing to do, it is good business. It makes only governor in America to strip domestic Gov. Snyder and the radical right wing of the ADVERTISING & SALES companies more attractive to the best and partner benefits from public employees. By his Republican Party. They must hear that we brightest potential employees. But Michigan actions, he showed that he is willing to sacrifice are paying very close attention. We will react Director of Sales keeps adding bricks to the wall at the border our state’s economic competitiveness for his and we will vote. As Michael Steinberg of the Jan Stevenson, [email protected] that is intended to keep out young, educated, belief that LGBT people are an inferior class. ACLU said, “We cannot stand idly by.” Sales Representatives entrepreneurial people – the very people that Lobbying, lawsuits and political Join us – everyone – Jan. 18 at the State Ed Bohach, [email protected] could help rebuild Michigan into the economic Capitol at noon! Ann Cox, [email protected] gamesmanship are pieces in the puzzle powerhouse it once was. National Advertising Representative In case Gov. Snyder and the out-of-touch Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 legislators don’t know what we want, here it is: Business Office Diane Smith, [email protected] • We want the repeal of recent legislation Nancy Blankenship that strips health benefits from the families of Circulation & Distribution LGBT public employees. Diane Smith Pride Source Media Group • We want the recently introduced bill that 11920 Farmington Road would invalidate all local anti-discrimination Livonia, Michigan 48150 ordinances to be retracted or killed in Phone 734.293.7200 • Fax 734.293.7201 committee. www.pridesource.com Our rate cards are available online • We want LGBT people to be included All material appearing in Between The Lines is protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without in Michigan’s Elliott Larsen legislation, the permission of the publishers. Between The Lines is supported Michigan’s civil rights law that protects by many fine advertisers, but we cannot accept responsibility for citizens against discrimination in employment, claims made by our advertisers, nor can we accept responsibility for materials provided by advertisers or their agents. housing and public accommodation. Copyright 2011 Pride Source Media Group, LLC • We want LGBT families to have the same parental rights, protections and responsibilities as other families. We want full second-parent adoption. www.PrideSource.com January 12, 2012 / BTL 7 OBITUARY: Mark Bidwell Pastor embroiled in scandal leaves behind legacy of good works that cannot be denied

BY JASON A. MICHAEL

In the preceding 20-plus years before his very public fall from grace, Rev. Mark Bidwell built a solid reputation as a minister, activist and all-around compassionate human being that no one scandal can besmirch. The former senior pastor of Metropolitan Community Church - Detroit died Jan. 3 at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak. He was 53. “Regardless of what they’ll say on the certificate of his passing, I really do believe that Mark died of a broken heart,” said Rev. Delores Berry, a traveling evangelist who frequently appeared at MCC-D and knew Bidwell well. “I know that his work will outlast the memory of his rough times. He was a dynamic individual who thought of helping people in healing situations and he was tireless Rev. Mark Bidwell in 2007 leading a service for Transgender Day of Remembrance. MCCD is planning a memorial service on Saturday, Jan. 28. BTLfile photo: Andrew Potter in that.” Bidwell was born Dec. 28, 1958 and raised in Metropolitan Detroit. He worked As part of the weekend’s events, he also was a hit with the TV news crew.” for a time for General Motors before offered to baptize transgender individuals Roland Smith joined the MCC-D beginning his ministerial career. Joining who wanted to be baptized in their new church in 2006 and was instantly impressed MCC-D in 1989, at a time of great turmoil name. So he was an integral part of the by Bidwell’s presence. for the church, Bidwell quickly became Transgender Day of Remembrance from “I had never met such a warm and a deacon. In April 1993, Bidwell began the first year we had it.” compassionate man,” Smith reflected for serving as interim pastor even though he After the passage of Proposal 2, which an article on the MCC movement’s 35th had yet to be ordained. That came in 1997, banned same-sex marriages in Michigan, anniversary in 2007. “He loves people. when he began his tenure as senior pastor in 2004, Bidwell became active in the fight That impressed me.” for the church, a position he held until for marriage equality. He organized annual Indeed, Bidwell believed it was his September 2011. trips to the Oakland County Courthouse, calling to reach out to whomever he could. Bidwell earned a bachelor’s degree where same-sex couples applied for “We’ve fed the homeless and strived in finance from Lawrence Technological marriage licenses, and performed mass for human rights and justice for all University before going on to get his same-sex commitment ceremonies in front people,” he said in the same article. “We master’s in pastoral ministry from MCC’s of Ferndale City Hall as part of the annual realize that a church is more than Sunday Samaritan College. He also attended Ss. Motor City Pride festivities. services. We’re called to do great things Cyril and Methodius Seminary in Orchard Bidwell received the Unity Award at in the world.” Lake. the 21st annual Community Pride Banquet Bidwell’s works and position often Once at the helm of MCC-D, Bidwell in 2006, and traveled the following year saw him featured in the media, and at times began reaching out and the ministry to Bucharest, Romania, to take part in a he was even the recipient of hate mail and expanded under his guidance. In 2000, gay pride march where marchers were death threats. But in September, he made he attended the first Transgender Day outnumbered by police and surrounded by the news for a much different reason. of Remembrance. The event took place armored vehicles. Struggling in recent years with diabetes outside the old Affirmations community “Fortunately, because I speak no and ill health, Bidwell, whom parishioners center on a cold, rainy November day. Romanian, I didn’t understand what the say had recently taken to sitting to deliver “After the service, Mark came up to protesters were angrily screaming and his sermons, which were noted for their me and offered the church for the following shouting at us,” Bidwell told Between The brevity, revealed he had fallen victim to year,” said Michelle Fox-Phillips, one of Lines at the time. ‘Axil, a German MCC addiction. the event’s organizers. “Since then he’s minister, and I carried an MCC banner with On Sept. 21, a man with whom been on the planning committee every year. ‘God Loves All’ (written) in Romanian. It See OBIT: Bidwell, page 10 8 BTL \ January 12, 2012 www.PrideSource.com

“There’s a difference between being against marriage equality and S/he Said equating same-sex marriage to bestiality. I mean it’s so dated and 2012 presidential election it’s so gross. It’s far off the course of mainstream America, and it’s enough Readers respond: COMPILED BY HOWARD ISRAEL for me just to say goodbye. The more A student claims Troy Mayor Daniels people know Santorum, the less they will like him. If you nominate (who referred to gay and lesbian people Meghan someone like Rick Santorum, I McCain guarantee he will lose.” as “queers” on her Facebook page last –Meghan McCain, daughter of Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.), month) wanted to invite “a panel of in an interview on MSNBC, critical of Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum’s opposition to psychologists who would testify that gay marriage, http://thenewcivilrightsmovement.com, Jan. 06. (On the campaign trial in Manchester, N.H. homosexuality is a mental disease,” to an Santorum suggested it was so important for children to have both a father and mother that an imprisoned anti-bullying forum. father was preferable to a same-sex parent.)

And she still holds a public office, why? “For years we’ve been told ‘it’s the –Shari Smith Bence economy, stupid.’ Iowa showed that ‘it’s the sex, stupid.’ Iowa should put to rest the myth that social issues are Mayor Daniels needs to step down and just go unimportant. It’s easy for Republican voters to tell pollsters that the away. economy is their most important –John Merlino Jr. issue. But that’s only because every candidate has promised the radical Nancy L. Cohen anti-abortion and anti-gay activists the world.” If this doesn’t remind the LGBT community why every political race matters, I don’t know what RuPaul –Nancy L. Cohen, historian, author of the upcoming book, “Delirium: How the Sexual Counterrevolution Is Polarizing will. VOTE. “I am not Ron Paul and I am not running for America,” quoted in a column titled “It’s the sex, stupid,” –Rachel Lutz president of the united states. Contrary to recent about the aggressive anti-sex rhetoric of the Republican presidential candidates, www.salon.com, Jan. 07. reports, I did not come in third in the Iowa caucus. I am not even a member of the Republican Party. But I think she likes the publicity; stealing it from aunt I am a proud American. I’m not a political person by Sarah and aunt Michelle. nature. But anytime a man leaves the house in a wig “Anti-sex rhetoric is hardly new to the –Alfred Franje and a pair of cha cha heels, he’s making a political Republican Party, of course, which has routinely campaigned to increase statement. Let us not forget that this great nation was the dangers and consequences of sex founded by a bunch of men wearing wigs. Forward by restricting access to contraceptives What a joke. thinking men, who fought for life, liberty and the and abortion. But the GOP war on sex –Josh Schirle pursuit of happiness for all. And honey, watch out, also comes at a time when the party’s because they started a revolution.” presidential candidates have perhaps never been more out of step with the –RuPaul, promoting the seasonal Tracy Clark- sexual beliefs and practices of most premiere of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” Flory Americans. The Republican primaries She certainly shouldn’t be put anywhere near http://queermeup.com, Jan. 06. have been a decidedly unsexy affair. kids that may be thinking of suicide. I wonder if Candidates have passionately spouted rhetoric against Troy is regretting voting for this idiot. premarital sex, gay sex - even non-procreative sex within –George Borg marriage. It’s enough to make you wonder if the country has gone to the prudes.” Comments may be edited for grammar and length. –Tracy Clark-Flory, Salon staff writer, in her column Join the conversation ... titled “It’s the sex, stupid,” about the aggressive anti-sex rhetoric of the Republican presidential Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” candidates, www.salon.com, Jan. 07. www.PrideSource.com January 12, 2012 / BTL 9 ‘Moral exception’ Senator gives Michigan another black eye

BY SUSAN HOROWITZ

LANSING – A controversy involving Sen. Rick Jones (R-Grand Blanc) is flaring after he called a female public relations executive a “hooker.” On Friday MLIVE. Sen. Rick Jones com reported that Senate (R-Grand Blanc) Majority Leader Randy photo appeared on Richardville (R-Monroe) had tumblr series online apologized on behalf of the Senate GOP caucus, though Jones has yet to do so himself claiming it was all meant as “humor.” Jones is best known by BTL readers as the author of the “moral exception” loosers of 2011. Upon learning county was the second largest clause included in antibullying this, Jones responded in an county in Michigan with same- legislation last fall. unsolicited email to MIRS news sex couples Jones weighed in Apparently Jones did not service writing, “Unfortunately saying, “I don’t think all those enjoy being called out by Kelly Kelly, like a ‘hooker,’ works are same-sex couples. They are Rossman-McKinney, founder for whichever client hires her probably just friends.” of public relations firm Truscott – policy be damned.” Readers can find more Rossman, who named Jones BTL readers should note of Jone’s insights at http:// (along with House Democrats) that when the 2010 census data imrickjones.tumblr.com. among her biggest political came out indicating Ingham Traverse City rejects anti-gay bill H.B. 5039

TRAVERSE CITY – civil rights law. It essentially municipality in the state to take Municipalites around Michigan targets any localities that up a resolution recommended are making known their strong have moved to include sexual by the city’s Human Rights opposition to H.B. 5039 bill orientation and gender identity introduced last October by as protected classes. The Commission, opposing H.B. republican state Rep. Tom current Elliot-Larson law fails 5039. It passed unanimously. McMillin (Rochester Dist. to protect LGBT citizens and Last November, 63 percent 45). The bill aims to prohibit McMillin wants to keep it that of the city’s voters upheld a local government bodies from way. nondiscimination measure that expanding non-discrimination On Wednesday, the laws beyond what is currently Traverse City commissioners prohibits discrimination in spelled out in Michigan’s 1976 represent the most recent housing and employment.

Dems to hold endorsement convention

LANSING – The MDP Chair Mark Brewer favor of corporations, insurance Michigan Democratic Party said. “For our activists, it is a companies, oil companies, and will hold an Endorsement great way to kick off the 2012 drug companies over victims. Convention on Saturday, March campaign where are goals are I’m confident that whomever 10 at Cobo Center in Detroit. to re-elect President Obama we endorse on March 10th can Delegates will endorse three and Sen. Stabenow, add to the help us take back the Court for candidates for the Michigan Democratic Congressional the people in 2012.” Supreme Court and eight Delegation, and take back both In order to be eligible candidates for statewide the State House and the State to vote at the Convention, Education Boards. Supreme Court.” delegates must be members of “This is a great opportunity “The Michigan Supreme the Michigan Democratic Party for candidates to introduce Court is one of the most at least 30 days in advance or themselves to Democratic blatantly partisan courts in by Feb. 9. activists from around the state the country,” added Brewer. and begin meeting the voters,” “The Court continues to rule in 10 BTL \ January 12, 2012 www.PrideSource.com Parting Glances Donna Brazile to deliver Angel Bruce’s Platinum Plates keynote at WSU tribute to

BY CHARLES ALEXANDER

’m a skeptic when it comes to Divine Martin Luther King Jr. Revelations - excepting of course, the DETROIT – Renowned political observance. The 2012 tribute is sure to OT and NT (King James version), strategist, author and syndicated inspire all who attend.” and the final-edited versionI of Mitt Romney’s beloved Book of columnist Donna Brazile will deliver Net proceeds from the event will Mormon. the keynote address during Wayne State support Adopt-A-Classroom, a national I was sent the following item by an unknown party, interested University’s annual Dr. Martin Luther organization that empowers teachers only, I’m sure, in my well being and spiritual salvation. (God King, Jr. Tribute at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, with community partners and funds to knows I need it!) Jan. 17. at the Max M. Fisher Music purchase resources for their classrooms. If I seem reticent to be converted that’s no doubt because at my Center, located at 3711 Woodward Ave. Wayne State, in partnership with its advanced age. I hesitate to give up my Post-Stonewall Inn religious in Detroit. tribute sponsors, has donated more than beliefs. You, my devout PG readers, are invited nonetheless to A recipient of the Congressional $28,000 to Adopt-A-Classroom over the judge the news item’s spiritual validity for yourself. Black Caucus Foundation’s highest past four years. What I do find refreshing is that the following message “from award for political achievement, Donna The event includes special on high,” delivered by an entity claiming to be Angel Bruce (no Brazile has worked on every presidential recognition of community leaders who relation to the LDS Angel Moroni), is for LGBT worshipers only. campaign from 1976 through 2000, when exemplify King’s goals and philosophy, Would you believe it? A revelation translated from recently she served as campaign manager for as well as a performance by the InsideOut found platinum plates, and not for sharing with straights, who former vice president Al Gore, becoming Donna Brazile Literary Arts Project’s Citywide Poets, already have hundreds of religions, cults, and Rebiblican dogmas the first African American woman to an award-winning group of high school to choose from. (Religion is a choice, by the way.) manage a presidential campaign. She is spoken word artists. Said platinum plates (no disrespect to American Express) the arts and the many contributions of the vice chair of voter registration and Tickets are $10 for the program only, were found hidden in walking distance from a nearby sequestered our community,” said Victor Green, WSU participation for the Democratic National or $65 for the program with strolling restroom stall at the Washington Monument. director of community relations. “We are Committee. luncheon. Parking is free. For more Under divine inspiration the plates were translated by a former excited to have Ms. Brazile as the keynote “The King tribute gives us an information or to purchase tickets, visit Salvation Army holiday bell ringer turned drag queen, using, so speaker. She is a powerful leader whose opportunity to honor the life and legacy govaffairs.wayne.edu or call 313-577- I’m told, an enchanted pair of Gucci gold-rimmed sunglasses (and work personifies the spirit of the King of Dr. King while celebrating diversity, 0701. a cocktail or two) while channeling the lost lingo of Reformed Hieroglyphic Lip-sync. The news item’s from DPP, Disassociated Persons Press . . . died of organ failure last week. Berry said that Bidwell deserved to Headline: Drag Queen Translates Platinum Plates! Sub ® Obit: Bidwell “Toward the end of his life he be remembered for his successes and not headline: Revelation for Gays Only A Sensation!! (Picture: Continued from p. 7 struggled with addiction which ultimately his shortcomings. Prophetess Bliss in gold-rimmers grinning radiantly, holding 12 led to medical complications,” Bidwell’s “We place people like Mark on a glittering rectangular-shaped plates.) Bidwell had injected methamphetamine daughter, Amy Dooley, told the Daily pedestal because he’s done so much and “Hundreds of devout gay men and a few intrepid so-called died in Bidwell’s Ferndale home as the Tribune. She recalled her dad as “a helped so many, and I’d like to keep him dykes are gathering just outside of Roswell, New Mexico, these result of an overdose. Though no charges fantastic father to my brother and I, and a there,” she said. “I acknowledge that he days to learn about the teachings of a tribe of long lost same-sex were filed in the incident, Bidwell soon fantastic grandfather to my two children.” has some broken places like the rest of inhabitants exiled from Jerusalem for their beliefs and unusual found himself in the center of a media Despite the tragedy of his last days, us, and I think he lost his way. I really do spiritual practices. storm. The local print and television friends, family and ministerial colleagues believe that his heart just couldn’t keep “The tribe, called Rainbowites, who seeing the rainbow media picked up on the story and anti- all agree that there is no undoing Bidwell’s beating. He knew he was responsible for following Noah’s flood, decided it was time for a change, gathered gay religious groups carried it across good works, and no denying the impact he a lot of hurts. So I think Heaven took together for mutual support, and following persecution for their the world. made as a champion for gay - and, indeed, him home. private lifestyle, traveled thousands of miles by festooned rafts, He resigned from his pastoral human - rights for many, many years. A memorial service is in the planning eventually settling near what is now Roswell, NM, in about BC position and MCC temporarily suspended “There were many good things about stages for Saturday, Jan. 28 at MCCD. 609. Unfortunately, their numbers were decimated by UFO aliens his ministerial credentials. Sadly, Bidwell Mark before he got in trouble with alcohol Funeral services for Bidwell took place who landed there on their first excursion to that area from outer would not live to make penance and and drugs,” said Jackie Walker, MCC- place Saturday, Jan. 7 at the Lynch & space. see his reputation restored. His health D’s vice-moderator. “He did a lot for Sons Funeral Home in Clawson. The “The history of the Rainbowites is written upon platinum continued to deteriorate and, distraught, our church. He brought it from shambles family has asked that memorials be made plates - stolen from one of the crashed UFOs - and this history was he attempted suicide. Bidwell was in Roseville and built it up to the 150 to The Ruth Ellis Center, 77 Victor Street, ‘thankfully preserved’, says Prophetess Bliss, ‘by a compassionate hospitalized on multiple occasions and members we have today.” Highland Park, Michigan 48203. UFO inhabitant, later known as Angel Bruce. S/he apparently was a closet believer in the Rainbowite holy agenda’. ® ACLU that public employees pay income taxes “In a nutshell, says Prophetess Bliss, the Platinum Plates Continued from p. 4 on the health insurance premiums for of Angel Bruce ‘teach that same sex partnerships are best for same-sex partners and often contribute to succeeding ages of turmoil, war, and hardships. These partnerships, “It is clear from the statements a percentage of the premiums out of their as long as they are monogamous and not plural, are suited for living made by the sponsors of this law that it own paychecks,” said Kaplan. in the end times or ongoing last days’”. was motivated by discriminatory animus If interested about the Platinum Plates or joining the toward gay and lesbian people. Sponsors Rainbowites, a meeting at your neighborhood LGBT Center is of this bill clearly mischaracterized the planned for April 1, 2012. (Come hell or high water.) Cost is a major concern for Doak Bloss and current state of Michigan law regarding his partner Gerardo Ascheri of East Lansing as providing health insurance coverage for they will pay an additional $8,000 to $10,000 same-sex domestic partners and offered per year for individual health insurance Charles @pridesource.com statements regarding cost savings. irresponsible and wildly inaccurate coverage. BTL photo: Andrew Potter Proponents of the law ignore the fact www.PrideSource.com January 12, 2012 / BTL 11

From left, KICK Vice President Jeremiah Jones with KICK Executive Director Curtis Lipscomb at the White House Dec. 13, 2011. Local leaders visit White House BY CRYSTAL A. PROXMIRE favorite comedians Cheryl Underwood there,” said Lipscomb. Each year the President and his family He had been invited by the Obama for receive guests from all over the world to share America campaign. His organization, KICK, in holiday celebrations at the White House. In helps connect African American LGBT people 2011 there were three receptions and at least two and allies with events, advocacy and discussion Michigan LGBT community leaders and their groups. guests were selected to make the visit. For Brogan-Kator it was the second visit KICK founder Curtis Lipscomb and KICK to the White House in 2011, having been there Board Vice President Jeremiah Jones and in June for the LGBT Pride Reception, and then Equality Michigan Executive Director Denise again on Dec. 13, 2011 with her partner Mary. Brogan-Kator and her partner Mary Kator “We were not expecting to meet the were both touched by their invitations and their President or the First Lady and, instead, were experiences with the First Family. looking forward to seeing the White House all “The White House was amazing,” said decked out for Christmas,” Kator said. Lipscomb. “We were able to come and go “We were, therefore, surprised when we through much more of it than I would have arrived and were given cards with a time on it for thought. My favorite was the Green Room. There a ‘receiving line.’ Nevertheless, we spent our time was a Green Room and then a Red Room, and in enjoying the White House. The White House was the Green Room you can see the taffeta patterns spectacularly decorated - with something like 37 in the wall. The pictures of past Presidents Christmas trees, in total, though we didn’t get to impressed me as well. There were people like see them all. The desserts included a gingerbread Teddy Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, and William replica of the White House and cookies made to Clinton and I wonder if sometimes Obama thinks look like the first family’s dog, Bo. about where his picture might hang when he “We dined in the State Dining Room under leaves office.” the painting of President Lincoln. The food was Even more amazing, Lipscomb said, was exquisite. the food. “When I got there I was told this was We were only given just a few seconds with the best food I’d ever eat in my life and they President Obama and the First Lady, just enough were right. The First Lady and the President to exchange a greeting. I thanked the President had a wonderful spread. There were so many for his work for gay and transgender Americans hor d’ourves, cheeses and breads, and I had beef and he asked me where I was from. When I said and fish. And then there was the best eggnog in ‘Michigan,’ the First Lady looked over and said my life. It was wonderful. The Marine Band did ‘Michigan? We’re going to Michigan.’ I then swing jazz interpretations of holiday standards stepped over to speak with her and Mary stepped and they were absolutely amazing.” up to speak with the President. He asked her But the best thing about the visit was being where she was from and she, pointing to me, said able to meet and mingle with “people doing all “I’m here with my wife; we’re from Michigan. kinds of work in the private and nonprofit sector, “It is a memory I will always treasure leaders in many communities with different - especially as this President has done more backgrounds. It was an honor to be among them. to advance equality for gay and transgender I met people from the Two Spirits community Americans than all other previous presidents and I was really surprised to see one of my combined,” said Brogan-Kator. 12 BTL \ January 12, 2012 www.PrideSource.com Creep of the Week Rick Santorum (Again!) BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI ’ll be frank. I’m tired of writing mention missing fathers, so maybe about Rick Santorum. But the he’s just talking about lesbian man just cut an incredible anti- parents? Maybe having two daddies Igay streak across New Hampshire. is okay so long as one of them is in Come on, Rick, give the other guys a chance! prison? It’s all so confusing. On Jan. Which is why America must 5 Santorum now allow same-sex couples to made the tired marry and have kids. same-sex “Marriage is not a right,” couples getting Santorum said according to the Los marriage equals Angeles Times. “It’s a privilege that inevitable polygamy is given to society by society for argument. Then a reason.” And that reason? “We the next day he want to encourage what is the best told a town hall for children.” Rick Santorum meeting that Otherwise we’re “robbing marriage was children of something they need, “an essential they deserve, they have a right to,” good,” which is why gays can’t have it since gays are, you know, he said. “You may rationalize that Former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum speaks to supporters following his come-from-behind photo finish tie with Mitt Romney, essentially bad. that isn’t true, but in your own life the former Massachusetts governor. Photo: Facebook.com/Rick Santorum. During a and in your own campaign speech Santorum likes to heart, you know on Jan. 7 at a it’s true.” private boarding talk about "we" and Okay, first school (I didn’t of all, what does think that kids "America" as if gays Santorum success in Iowa could vote, “given to society but then again and lesbians are by society for a maybe rich kids some shiftless souls reason” even can. Hell, at this mean? Last time likely to increase gay- point that would on the outskirts of I checked, gays not surprise me and lesbians are at all) he actually civilization. Which, to part of society. told the audience that they’d be use Santorum’s own Santorum likes to related debate better off with talk about “we” a dad in jail than words, requires quite a and “America” with two same- bit of rationalizing. as if gays and sex parents. lesbians are BY LISA KEEN state Republican Party until after 1 civil unions only), former Utah Mind you, some shiftless a.m. Iowa time. Governor Jon Huntsman, claimed less he claimed that this “fact” came souls on the outskirts of civilization. The Republican presidential “[N]o other candidate has made than one percent of the vote. from an unnamed researcher, but field’s most anti-gay candidate scored opposing basic rights for LGBT Although an Iowa victory is an Santorum is still the one who stood Which, to use Santorum’s own big Tuesday night when he landed in Americans such a guiding principle important symbolic victory, especially in front of a crowd of kids and said words, requires quite a bit of a virtual tie for first place in the Iowa of his or her public life,” said Joe in the eyes of the media, it does not it out loud. “[The expert] found rationalizing. caucuses with the candidate who Solmonese, president of the Human secure any of the state’s eventual 25 that even fathers in jail who had Far more rationalizing than has been seen by the media as the Rights Campaign. delegates to the Republican national abandoned their kids were still being able to admit that gay and party’s most viable candidate against U.S. Rep. Ron Paul of Texas convention. better than no father at all to have lesbian parents are raising lots of President Obama. came in third, with 21 percent of the Also, polls nationally and in in their children’s lives,” Santorum kids who are doing just fine. Better Former U.S. Senator Rick caucus votes. U.S. House Speaker other key states suggest Santorum still spewed. Santorum of Pennsylvania, who Newt Gingrich of Georgia followed has an uphill battle for the nomination. Totally true. Kids with daddies than fine, even. It doesn’t take a took numerous opportunities in his in fourth place, garnering 13 percent. The latest national poll, by Gallup, in jail are so lucky. Known fact. Kids genius to figure out that a kid with campaign to espouse his opposition Texas Governor Rick Perry took 10 showed Santorum in fifth place with two loving, committed parents is with gay parents are sooooo jealous. to equal rights for LGBT people, percent of the vote in fifth place, only six percent of support from 1,000 Especially the three students in pretty fortunate. Even if both of secured just eight votes fewer than followed by U.S. Rep. Michele Republican voters surveyed. Romney the audience who, according to those parents are moms or dads. former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Bachmann of Minnesota in sixth place led the field with 24 percent. The poll the school’s headmaster, have gay And especially if neither is having Romney, out of about 60,000 cast for with five percent of the vote. was conducted from December 26 to parents. Well played, Rick. No their cellmate ink a teardrop on their the two men. Each won 25 percent Openly gay candidate Fred January 2. doubt these kids will start up some face with a tattoo gun fashioned of the 122,000 votes cast for seven Karger did not compete in the Iowa A CNN poll of New Hampshire prison pen pal relationships to make candidates, in what may be the closest caucuses. The field’s only candidate voters on Tuesday night after out of a Bic pen, toothbrush, and a up for what is missing in their lives. Republican caucus race in history. The supportive of legal recognition of Santorum’s success was apparent, Although, Santorum did just guitar string. final result was not announced by the same-sex relationships (albeit through showed an increase in support for www.PrideSource.com January 12, 2012 / BTL 13

Santorum - to 10 percent, twice what it was in on end, jumped ahead in the polls in the last few support there, the colleges, were not in session. R. Clarke Cooper issued a statement early Jan. late December. But Romney held fast to his 47 days before the caucus. Bob Vander Platts, one Karger was in New Hampshire Tuesday 4 saying that Romney was “one of the best” of percent of the New Hampshire support, Paul of the leaders against same-sex marriage in Iowa, night, where he has been campaigning for the Republican candidates in Iowa on issues held onto 17 percent, and Huntsman held onto reportedly took some credit for Santorum’s surge, months. He said that, regardless of how he does affecting LGBT Americans. 13 percent. which started about a week after Vander Platts’ in New Hampshire’s primary, Jan. 10, “I’ll “By contrast,” said Cooper, “Senator Santorum’s success in Iowa will probably Santorum rose by appealingto a uniquely socially bring increased attention and support for his conservative electorate. The divisive social issue passionately proclaimed anti-gay views. Those Santorum, who polled near the bottom of the field with only single- politics whichhelped Santorum’s campaign in views and his toughly stated opposition to Iowa will only hurt him in New Hampshire and abortion appeared to fuel his strong showing digit support for months on end, jumped ahead in the polls in the beyondas voters learn more about his record. in the caucuses. A CNN entrance poll indicated Winning the White House will require the that 84 percent of those participating described last few days before the caucus. Bob Vander Platts, one of the politicsof addition, not division.” themselves as either “very conservative” (47 leaders against same-sex marriage in Iowa, reportedly took some “If using gay and lesbian Americans as a percent) or “somewhat conservative” (37 wedge can’t score enough political points to win percent). The majority of those participants credit for Santorum’s surge, which started about a week after more than 25 percent in Iowa,” said Cooper, “it (54 percent) voted for Santorum. Fifty- certainly won’t help the Republican nominee in seven percent of participants also described Vander Platts’ group, The Family Leader, endorsed him.. November.” themselves as “white evangelical/born-again Jimmy LaSalvia, head of GOProud, a Christians.” And 32 percent of those supported national gay conservative group, issued a Santorum. group, The Family Leader, endorsed Santorum. absolutely stay in all primaries and caucuses.” statement that ignored Santorum’s success in The most important issue for Santorum Both national and local media gave much Iowa. Instead, LaSalvia praised Romney and Paul supporters in Iowa, was abortion, according to credit to Santorum’s decision to campaign in on taking “two of the three top spots in Iowa” and CNN. CNN apparently did not ask about same- every one of Iowa’s 99 counties for his victory. Democrats happy with said, “It is clear that the message of economic sex marriage on the entrance poll. For Romney And the Des Moines Register pre-caucus poll Santorum, GOProud renewal and limited government is resonating supporters, it was the economy. indicated that Santorum’s supporters showed a with Republican voters.” One CNN commentator, Gloria Borger, greater likelihood of showing up at the caucuses ignores him “While there are certainly big differences suggested Santorum’s ascension might draw (76 percent) than those of other candidates. between Governor Romney and Congressman CNN commentator Al Sharpton said Romney into more discussions about social More than 40 percent of Iowa Republicans Paul, especially when it comes to foreign policy,” Santorum’s success in the race is good for issues, including same-sex marriage. were undecided going into the caucuses. said LaSalvia, “both chose to emphasize issues Democrats. Santorum, onstage with a large crowd of In remarks after most media declared like the economy and the size of government over “As long as a Santorum is in the race, supporters, thanked his wife Karen, God, and him the third place candidate in Iowa, U.S. demonizing gay people. We are pleased to see Romney’s going to have to keep playing to the Iowa. He said “rights come to us from God,” he Rep. Ron Paul emphasized the importance of that so many Republicans in Iowa are focused on right,” said Sharpton, “and the longer he has to talked about the need for “a plan that includes staying faithful to the constitution and limiting the issues that unite us as conservatives, instead debate and stay to the right, he loses the middle.” everyone,” and he talked about the “dignity of government interference in private lives. of the side show issues.” Log Cabin Republicans Executive Director every human life.” He said that “when the family breaks down, the economy struggles.” But, despite repeatedly emphasizing his opposition Perry, Bachman to same-sex marriage throughout his campaign, Texas Gov. Rick Perry, who went onstage had been gay. Santorum did not mention his definition of with just his wife and three kids, mostly read Candidates challenged on Romney says he has never supported marriage as being “one man and one woman.” from a letter from a supporter. . gay rights same-sex marriage. Romney, onstage with his wife and four of An unusually low-key Rep. Michele Rival Rick Santorum says he believes in his sons, congratulated Santorum for his success Bachmann vowed to continue her campaign, CONCORD, New Hampshire (AP) respect and dignity for all people but reiterated and noted, at 12:40 a.m. Wednesday, that he did but she, too, read her remarks to the crowd, – The Republican presidential candidates are his opposition to gay marriage and adoptions not yet know what the final result would be. (Two including a reiteration of her promise of being challenged on gay rights. by gay parents. percent of the vote was yet to be counted, and “protecting marriage between one man and one In a nationally televised debate Sunday, The former senator from Pennsylvania is Romney was leading by only 41 votes. Before woman.” On Wednesday morning, Bachmann former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney an outspoken social conservative and has made he finished his speech, Santorum was leading by announced the end of her campaign and Perry was queried on comments he made in 1994 opposition to abortion and gay marriage central five votes.) Romney said nothing about same- vowed to continue into South Carolina.. saying he would be a voice for gay rights in to his campaign. sex marriage either, and said “freedom is a gift Openly gay candidate Fred Karger did the Republican Party. from God.” Romney stood by those words, saying not compete in the Iowa caucuses, saying he Follow the GOP presidential campaign online at Santorum, who polled near the bottom of the knew the turnout would be “mostly social he did not discriminate on the basis of sexual www.pridesource.com field with only single-digit support for months conservatives” and that his strongholds of orientation and that a member of his cabinet 14 BTL \ January 12, 2012 www.PrideSource.com NJ Dems ID gay marriage bill

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) – Democratic marriage. Gov. Chris Christie, a Republican, leaders in the Senate and Assembly say The bill failed in the Senate two years has said he’s no fan of same-sex marriage. sending the governor a gay marriage bill ago. But Senate President Steve Sweeney, Democrats don’t enjoy veto-proof will be a top priority in the new legislative who didn’t vote for it then and has regretted majorities in either house. So Christie could session. it since, says he’ll work diligently to correct ignore the bill if it reaches his desk, which The leaders gathered Monday to the mistake. would allow it to become law without his announce a push to make New Jersey Assembly Speaker Sheila Oliver says signature. the seventh state to recognize same-sex her house is fully on board.

WA lawmakers to look at marriage

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) – residents, and the early release of some list of priorities during a speech on Monday Lawmakers convened a new legislative prisoners. on the floor. session Monday with the main task Lawmakers will also address major “I respect that there are strong views of closing a roughly $1 billion budget social issues, including gay marriage and on both sides of this issues, but this is the shortfall. marijuana legalization. right time to be fair to people - and choose The House and Senate have just 60 Gregoire renewed a broader discussion equality,” Chopp said. days to weigh budget cuts and a potential on same-sex marriage as she publicly Chopp also said his caucus is focused sales tax increase. announced her support last week and on creating jobs, funding basic education, Gov. Chris Gregoire proposed said she’d be pushing for legislation to be saving the state’s safety net and providing spending cuts that included a shortened passed in the coming months. opportunity through higher education. school year, the elimination of social In the House, Speaker Frank Chopp, services for thousands of low-income D-Seattle, included same-sex marriage in a Attorney General announces revisions to Report’s definition of rape

Data on rape to better reflect state criminal codes, victim experiences

WASHINGTON, DC - Attorney the definition of rape will help ensure Director of the Office on Violence Against General Eric Holder announced Jan. 6. justice for those whose lives have been Women Susan B. Carbon. “We are grateful revisions to the Uniform Crime Report’s devastated by sexual violence and reflect for the dedicated work of all those involved definition of rape, which will lead to a the Department of Justice’s commitment in making and implementing the changes more comprehensive statistical reporting to standing with rape victims,” Attorney that reflect more accurately the devastating of rape nationwide. The new definition General Holder said. “This new, more crime of rape.” is more inclusive, better reflects state inclusive definition will provide us with a The longstanding, narrow definition criminal codes and focuses on the various more accurate understanding of the scope of forcible rape, first established in 1927, is forms of sexual penetration understood and volume of these crimes.” “the carnal knowledge of a female, forcibly to be rape. The new definition of rape is: The revised definition includes any and against her will.” It thus included “The penetration, no matter how slight, of gender of victim or perpetrator, and only forcible male penile penetration of a the vagina or anus with any body part or includes instances in which the victim is female vagina and excluded oral and anal object, or oral penetration by a sex organ incapable of giving consent because of penetration; rape of males; penetration of of another person, without the consent of temporary or permanent mental or physical the vagina and anus with an object or body the victim.” The definition is used by the incapacity, including due to the influence part other than the penis; rape of females by FBI to collect information from local law of drugs or alcohol or because of age. The females; and, non-forcible rape. enforcement agencies about reported rapes. ability of the victim to give consent must be Police departments submit data on “Rape is a devastating crime and determined in accordance with state statute. reported crimes and arrests to the UCR. The we can’t solve it unless we know the full Physical resistance from the victim is not UCR data are reported nationally and used extent of it,” said Vice President Biden, a required to demonstrate lack of consent. to measure and understand crime trends. In leader in the effort to end violence against The new definition does not change federal addition, the UCR program will also collect women for over 20 years and author of the or state criminal codes or impact charging data based on the historical definition of landmark Violence Against Women Act. and prosecution on the local level. rape, enabling law enforcement to track “This long-awaited change to the definition “The revised definition of rape sends consistent trend data until the statistical of rape is a victory for women and men an important message to the broad range differences between the old and new across the country whose suffering has of rape victims that they are supported definitions are more fully understood. gone unaccounted for over 80 years.” and to perpetrators that they will be held “These long overdue updates to accountable,” said Justice Department www.PrideSource.com Film / January 12, 2012 / BTL 15 The Power of Pariah

Focus Features Star, out director talk coming-of-age film – and how other LGBT teens can relate

BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI Adepero Oduye: It’s a very specific story, but it’s Dee, the hardest part of coming out for you was very awesome at answering and talking about so universal. You don’t have to be young, black finding acceptance within the gay community. things that, I don’t know, might not have been ust a girl looking for her place in the world or gay to get something from this film, and, since You struggled with finding your place, right? super comfortable (both laugh). But I never got isn’t an all-too-uncommon tale. But Alike is Sundance, that’s what we’ve been seeing from that sense, because I just kept on asking! Doing black. And gay. DR: Yeah, when I first came out it was weird. I these screenings and Q&As. For people who are would go to the clubs and have on a turtle neck that developed this relationship based on trust, J It’s a minority double whammy that singles either black or gay, I think they’re excited to see which allowed me to go to places that aren’t out the Brooklyn teen from the rest of the world, and jeans, and I felt like I wasn’t hard enough themselves reflected up on the screen. That’s to be butch, and then I wasn’t soft enough to be necessarily the most comfortable as an actor so she seeks acceptance in gay bars – and, always powerful and exciting. and just as a person. because she’s not definite in her identity, doesn’t femme. So I’d go and felt ignored – and like I find it. Alike (pronounced “ah-lee-kay”) is the What’s your advice to young people who, like needed to identify a certain way. Other women What question made you most uncomfortable, Dee? I met who were like me were different on the epitome of a “Pariah,” the name of out director Alike, are struggling with their sexuality? DR: (Both laugh) I don’t remember. Oh god. Dee Rees’ personal – and very powerful – indie gender identity spectrum, too. DR: That it’s OK to be yourself; that people can I think, you know, we talked about Alike’s film. A hit on the festival circuit, opening Jan. I think the community is more open to this change. When I went through my coming out level of sexual experience and that Alike is 20 at the Main Art Theatre in Royal Oak, Rees’ idea that we don’t have to check a box, we don’t process, even though I was an adult – I was paying a virgin and how she might be feeling and I real-life-inspired story finds the universal thread have to create these binary roles from hetero my own bills, I was independent – but my parents don’t know – there was nothing that was totally in navigating Alike’s journey to self-actualization culture, and so that for me was an opening weren’t accepting, and we had a tough time for a uncomfortable. I mean, as an actress I’m asking and the power of loving yourself first. experience. I’ve met a lot of women along couple of years. I never thought they would turn her to do something that’s very uncomfortable. Rees and Adepero Oduye, who plays Alike, the way who feel free to express themselves around, but they saw this film and said they loved It’s probably more uncomfortable to do it on spoke recently about their advice to LGBT however is authentic for them, and that’s what me and that they were proud of me. camera, to really expose herself, so I had no teens, getting into character at a lesbian bar and I had to discover and what Alike, in this movie, So people can actually change, and in the right to be uncomfortable because I’m asking so the reason “My Neck, My Back (Lick It)” was comes to discover. interim, find other people who love you. During much more. You can’t ask your actors to open perfectly inappropriate for the film. that time is when I found the closest friends So you don’t believe in labels, and neither does up if you can’t open up with them. Alike. How would you break down “Pariah” and the in my life now. Maybe I wouldn’t have been How did you find those feelings of pain and open to those friendships if I hadn’t been going character of Alike? through such a tough time. It was an experience DR: No, no. This film is about not checking a isolation, and that journey to self-acceptance, in Dee Rees: It’s just, of course, a story about identity. that transformed me. box and not having a label. To the extent that the character of Alike? someone identifies and feels a certain way, Alike’s a woman who knows she loves women, AO: Yeah, the process of accepting and loving AO: That process of accepting and loving and is sure in that, but her struggle is how to be. absolutely feel free to call yourself whatever is yourself and not fitting in and just wanting yourself is the most important thing. If you true for you, but it’s also OK not to. Her struggle is a more nuanced struggle of gender can do that and find people who support that, to break away from all the expectations that identity within the queer community. She’s not the it’s amazing what will happen when you get How did Dee’s coming out experience inform people put on you, I wanted to clear up all of same person that (her friend) Laura is, neither is to a place where you truly do love and accept your character, Adepero? that and really figure out who I am and what I she this pink princess that her mother wants her to yourself. People will turn around and things – want to be. I really just related to all of that. be. She falls somewhere in between. Finding the they might be challenging and the road might be AO: We just talked. She made it very clear that I felt like I didn’t belong, so that’s what I courage to carve out that space is her journey. It’s a a bit rocky – but they will get better. anything I had on my mind I could ask her. I story that people will be able to relate to. asked a whole bunch of questions and she was See Pariah, page 21 16 BTL \ January 12, 2012 \ Books www.PrideSource.com

“The Retribution,” by and activist Rubin has challenged feminist Val McDermid. Atlantic orthodoxy, laid new foundations for critical Monthly Press, 416 thinking about gender and sexuality, and Book Marks pages, $25 hardcover. galvanized the early years of an emerging academic discipline, queer theory. This BY RICHARD LABONTE At his most elegiac, he transforms a monstrous Serial killers don’t get reader collects several of her seminal essays, world into something lustrous and vulnerable. any nastier than sociopath including 1975’s “The Traffic in Women,” Jacko Vance, “killer of “98 Wounds,” by Justin broadly about the sexual and economic “Fit to Serve: Reflections on a Secret Life, Private 17 teenage girls...and Chin. Manic D Press, 122 subordination of women, and 1984’s “Thinking Struggle, and Public Battle to Become the First once voted the sexiest pages, $14.95 paper. Sex,” an exploration of how some sexual Openly Gay U.S. Ambassador,” by Ambassador man in British TV.” He behaviors are seen as natural and others are Fierce. Funny. Filthy. James C. Hormel and Erin Martin. Skyhorse committed his crimes in considered unnatural, with added value to the Chin’s fiction debut Publishing, 288 pages, $24.95 hardcover. McDermid’s 1997 novel “The Wire in the Blood,” reprints – Rubin includes fresh “afterthoughts” – after memoirs, where clinical psychologist Tony Hill and Detective The title almost says it all: Hormel’s memoir is and “reflections” following both pieces. poetry collections and Chief Inspector Carol Jordan hunted him down. indeed about closeted life, ending a marriage and Much of the writing is seriously scholarly, performance scripts, Twelve years later he has escaped from prison, a seven-year battle with Republican homophobes but Rubin opens with a sprightly introduction six books in all – is a ready to wreak sadistic havoc on the people who put on the way to representing the United States in the that mixes the personal with the professorial. mesmerizing mashup, in him away –including his ex-wife, now in a loving tiny nation of Luxembourg. But there’s much more And she doesn’t shy away from settling 11 interconnected stories, relationship with a woman. Vance, whose ruthless to the man from SPAM (the lunch meat that made feminist-war scores – in “Blood Under the of sex and excess, drug highs and emotional venality knows no bounds, is on a killing spree that the Hormel clan wealthy, always capitalized in Bridge,” published in 2010, she focuses lows, heartache and hilarity. All in maybe 40,000 for most of this chilling thriller confounds Hill and the book). After coming out, the father of five (he on the infamous Barnard Sex Conference words, a marvel of compression, a short novel Jordan. At the same time, Jordan is investigating the remained close to his ex-wife and kids) plunged into of 1982, where strident anti-pornography packed with wit, defiance and desperation. On the deaths of several prostitutes, even as a cost-cutting 1970s antiwar activism and the push for gay rights. activists protested Rubin’s presence, based on surface, Chin is a jokester, his narrator dropping superior sets out to dismantle her special squad, the It’s a passionate, activist side to the man’s life that distortions of her writing about S/M, butch/ flawless gems of absurdist imagery. Like: Being Major Incident Team, and as her fragile relationship most readers might not know about, overshadowed femme relationships and porn. This reader is clawed to death by pandas could be the cutest with Hill – both personal and professional – begins as it has been by his philanthropic endeavors. These an exemplary introduction, for younger queers, death ever. And: Cum has the consistency of to unravel. McDermid juggles these several include the James C. Hormel Gay and Lesbian to an influential and accessible intellect. “the unnamed white stuff that you might find on Center at the San Francisco Public Library, an plotlines with cold-blooded, relentless brilliance in tables in vegetarian restaurants.” But, beneath affiliation with which his opponents pilloried him this seventh novel featuring the investigative duo the humor, beyond the irony, Chin’s narrator is when his diplomatic appointment was announced (and her twenty-fifth novel in 25 years). a man baffled by love, striving for connection, by President Clinton, accusing him of perversion learning how to evade demons and to appreciate, on the basis of images culled from the library’s “Deviations: A Gayle Rubin Reader,” by Gayle Richard Labonte has been reading, editing, selling, oh, two-ply toilet paper, the nature of cats and S. Rubin. Duke University Press, 480 pages, collection. Now nearing 80, Hormel caps a spirited, and writing about queer literature since the mid- “time of my own.” At his most depraved, the affecting life story with an account of how he came $27.95 paper. ’70s. He can be reached in care of this publication, narrator exults in excreta – “Snow” may be too to love a man who is more than 50 years younger. much for readers with over-refined sensibilities. Over almost four decades, pioneering theorist or at [email protected].

Be included in our Speical Valentine’s Issue Feb. 9, 2012 Call us today: 734-293-7200 x22 www.PrideSource.com January 12, 2012 / BTL 17

SAME-SEX WEDDING EXPO Celebrating the Power of Love

SAVE THE DATE SAME-SEX WEDDING EXPO Sunday, April 29, 2012 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Presented by Pride Source Media Group & Detroit Marriott Livonia

For more information visit pridesource.com Call 734-293-7200 ext.15 for vendor and sponsorship opportunities 18 BTL \ January 12, 2012 \ Ferndale www.PrideSource.com

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Call us today: 734-293--7200 x13 www.PrideSource.com Ferndale / January 12, 2012 / BTL 19 The Blues Festival: not just blues? 11th annual event showcases multiple genres in 22 venues

This year’s Annual Ferndale Blues & Music charities: Ferndale Youth Assistance (www. Festival, set for Jan. 27-Feb. 4, won’t just give ferndaleyouthassistance.org) and Michigan you the blues. The festival, held in downtown AIDS Coalition (www.michiganaidscoalition. Ferndale and neighboring cities, is growing in org). Venues include bars, nightclubs, 2012 and showcasing an array of musicians restaurants, comedy clubs, coffeehouses, and bands – in blues, jazz, rock, country and churches, schools and community centers. contemporary styles. Each year the festival More than 25,000 people are expected to attend features up to 70 separate concerts and events the events. at 22 venues over the course of nine days. More All contributions, donations and than 60 volunteers work the events, which raise sponsorships are tax deductible under federal more than $22,000 in proceeds for two local IRS regulations. The Blues & Music Festival is charities each year. supported by the City of Ferndale, the Ferndale More venues, more concerts, more DDA, Ferndale Chamber of Commerce, volunteers and more participating cities Oakland County Youth Assistance, MAC, are on tap for this year’s Blues & Music elected officials, and numerous community Festival. All proceeds go toward two local organizations and media outlets. 20 BTL \ January 12, 2012 \ Performing www.PrideSource.com Queens to the rescue

Local queens face-off in “Battle of the Dragons.” Photo: Eye Daring Photography Drag face-off to benefit LGBT community

BY ANDREA POTEET career was over. Instead of moping, Garcia very competitive. I want to take the said she used the injury as a catalyst to give whole typical pageant to another level. Like many young girls, Kelly Garcia back to the LGBT community that had Let’s make it a battle, let’s make it a little grew up with an interest in makeup. given her so much. She began pooling her more aggressive. Let’s have a battle of But for Garcia, the interest developed excess energy into creating a cosmetics line the dragons.” into a passion in an unlikely way – when geared toward LGBTs. The event, scheduled for 8 p.m. Jan the Detroit-area dancer was approached “Whether it’s a man, whether it’s 20 at the Majestic Theater in Detroit, will by friends who were in need of a third a woman – whether it’s a half woman, feature six drag queens battling it out for drag queen for their monthly drag show, half man – it doesn’t matter who you are, the chance to be the cosmetic line’s new Fiebra Latina. what you are,” Garcia says. “If you want face and $1,000 in cash and prizes. “They said, ‘How about we teach you to be creative, if you want to enhance Four judges will pick from the the choreography and you do this show your beauty, we should be able to provide contestants, scouted through two Detroit with us? We’ll dress you up like a drag something for them.” casting calls, as they model looks from queen, we’ll do your hair and makeup; And to kick off her line, Top Secret Ivy’s Corsets and their own designs. you’ll lip-synch and dance,’” Garcia says. Cosmetics, she’s going back to her Proceeds from the event will benefit “And that’s where it started.” roots with a drag show and competition the American Foundation for Children with What began as a single gig turned into christened “Battle of the Dragons.” AIDS, a cause the single mother says is a passion, she says, and Garcia’s performed She said she was inspired by the close to her heart. with the group for the past eight months. competitive spirit she sees among drag “I believe in my dream and I work “It stuck with me since then,” she queens, the same spirit she sees in other hard to make my dreams come true,” says. “I love the hair, I love the makeup. mythological creatures . Garcia says, “but at the same time, I don’t I love the illusion and the choreography.” “When I think of drag, I think of forget about the others. I want to help the But when Garcia injured her knee extravagance, I think ‘fierce,’” Garcia LGBT community, and I want to help during a performance with the group says. “When you look at drag queens, children that are in need. And I believe it’s several months ago, she feared her dancing everything is over the top, and they are about time someone did that.” www.PrideSource.com Film / January 12, 2012 / BTL 21

Focus Features

® Pariah her daughter to hang out with, and turning her Continued from p. 15 to Bina, she actually brings about Alike’s sexual consummation and the experience she’s been trying to steer her away from. That’s the irony. brought to the table. Before the feature film, “Pariah” was a short in What was going to a lesbian club for research like? 2007. What initially drew you to Alike? AO: We just had to show up to this club in AO: I just felt it was going to be this really character, so me and Pernell (Walker), who awesome experience, so I wanted to be part of plays Laura, met up at this club. Dee was it. I submitted myself to be an extra, not to be watching us, not interacting with us at all, and the lead, and I got the call from Dee to read for just dropped me into this world, specifically Alike. Call backs and call backs later, I got the Alike’s world. And how uncomfortable! I didn’t role. It was just so exciting to sink my teeth into fit in, and no one paid attention to me because a character that was very meaty. I wasn’t butch or super femme. I felt invisible. I felt like I was on the outside looking in. I felt You’ve done extra roles before: You were the like I was pressing my nose against this bubble. “Crack Smoker,” as listed on IMDB, in Ryan Tell me, Dee, about the song you chose for that Gosling’s “Half Nelson.” opening scene in the club, Khia’s “My Neck, My AO: (Laughs) Yeah! That’s not what my role Back (Lick It).” was called when I got it, but I was like, “Oh, they changed it… to ‘Crack Smoker.’ Thanks!” DR: My first time at a lesbian club, when I first came out, I was like, “Oh my god, I’m What’s next for you, Dee? going to hell.” And so for this film, it was DR: I finished a script called “Bolo,” set very important that the first song be very in the South. It’s more a thriller but still a provocative. Just as Alike is pushed into this chance to explore interesting characters and hypersexual environment, so are we. So she’s worlds. And another spec script called “Large uncomfortable, we’re uncomfortable and we’re Print,” about a 50-something interest investor immersed in her perspective and feelings. who’s recently divorced and living in another Do you think Alike’s mom, Audrey, is a bully? continent and having to redefine happiness for himself. I just want to tell stories that DR: Audrey (Kim Wayans) doesn’t intend to are meaningful and get people to think about be. From her perspective, she’s just trying to do themselves and the world differently. what’s right by her daughter. She’s just misguided. She really wants to connect with Alike and buy How about the HBO project with Viola Davis? Can her dresses, but there’s this growing distance and you say anything about that? she’s not sure how to connect, so she doesn’t DR: I can’t! I’m just excited about it and mean to be. She’s just a lonely, vulnerable person thrilled to be working with this amazing actress who wants love, and with everything she does and, again, I think this is going to be another she ends up bringing about the very thing she’s character people are going to be interested in. trying to avoid. So she doesn’t mean to bully Alike. She’s trying to love her, and sometimes Adepero, I imagine this character isn’t going love can be misguided. People are flawed. away any time soon. What parts of Alike will stay One choice she makes, to separate her from with you? Laura and unite her with a colleague’s daughter, AO: Oh, no, no. It will always be an absolute actually works against her. The girl fosters Alike’s pleasure to be associated with that character. I sexual becoming. think it’s Alike’s resilience. She just never gave up; she tries, gets knocked down and tries again. DR: Yes, I thought it would be ironic. I think that She, at a young age, makes the choice to live in life we sometimes bring about the very things the life that she wants to live. That will always we try to avoid. So by steering Alike from Laura, stay with me. whom she feels is not the kind of friend she wants 22 BTL \ January 12, 2012 \ Travel www.PrideSource.com

Lodge at Koele (www.fourseasons.com/koele), which is nestled beneath groves of Cook pine trees Out of Town in the cool upcountry, and the seaside Manele Bay Hotel (www.fourseasons.com/manelebay), which fringes spectacular beaches and is renowned for snorkeling, golf, spa treatments, and relaxation. Maui, Lanai and Take some time to stroll around tiny Lanai City, which has a few intriguing galleries and Molokai shops and is also home to a less pricey and quite special boutique inn and restaurant, the Hotel BY ANDREW COLLINS Lanai (www.hotellanai.com).

Arguably the most glamorous of Hawaii’s islands, Maui is home to some of the state’s Molokai swankiest resorts and acclaimed restaurants. It’s Although it’s significantly larger than Lanai a favorite with visitors in search of lazy beach (about a third the size of Maui), the tranquil island naps, leisurely laps in the pool and soothing of Molokai (www.gohawaii.com/Molokai) receives spa treatments. But don’t let the island’s cushy very few visitors and is sparsely populated, with reputation fool you into thinking it lacks history, just 7,400 residents. But it’s also home to one of culture and an impressive variety of rugged the most remarkable cultural attractions in the outdoor adventures. Maui vacations can be as country, the colony of Kalaupapa, a peninsula unhurried or as thrilling as you choose. physically cut off from the rest of Molokai by a Home to the largest gay and lesbian resort wall of sheer sea cliffs, among the highest in the in Hawaii (the Maui Sunseeker) as well as world. Hawaiians afflicted with Hansen’s Disease dozens of welcoming B&Bs, inns, condos and (leprosy) were tragically exiled to Kalaupapa from full-service resorts, Maui is often the first island the 1860s through the 1960s. Although a handful of visitors experience after Oahu. Although lacking survivors still reside in this community, much of it Honolulu’s nightlife, this easy-going, moderately is now a national historic site, and visitors can tour developed island is well suited to couples, the two villages. The exciting part is getting there: families and groups of friends. Maui's Makena Beach is a favorite haunt of the island's gay community. Photo: Andrew Collins you must either hike or ride mules down (and later Plenty of visitors stay at one resort and visit discover some of the most diverse and dramatic Maui – including trips around West Maui, along the back up) a daunting, 1,700-foot trail of muddy steps Maui for five to seven days. But if you’re hoping scenery in all of Hawaii, including the Upcountry, road to Hana, and snorkeling off of Makena’s lava- to get to know the island’s diverse elements, split and switchbacks. situated along the slopes of 10,023-foot Mt. fringed shores. Acclaimed local Chef Raja, who your time among two or three areas, and spend Even beyond Kalaupapa, Molokai is rich Haleakala, and home to the quirky ranching and competed on TV’s “Extreme Chef” in 2011, is your at least 10 days, perhaps tacking on a day or two in spectacular scenery. There’s a scenic drive farming towns of Kula and Makawao. Be sure go-to for planning a romantic meal or small dinner on the quiet, underrated and remarkable neighbor around the eastern half of the island, from which to budget a few hours to drive to the peak of party. He’s especially popular with those planning islands of Lanai and Molokai. trails lead into the stunning Halawa Valley. And Haleakala’s summit, which lies within the national gay weddings or commitment ceremonies. On on the island’s dry, sunny western side, you’ll find park of the same name. that note, Hawaii’s new same-sex civil union law some beautiful beaches. The airport in Molokai Maui Along the breezy windward coast, you can went into effect on Jan. 1, 2012, and long-running is served by several flights a day from neighbor drive the famously curvy and narrow road to Hana, Gay Hawaii Wedding can help couples plan their islands. Once you get here, it’s best to rent a car, Geographically made up of two soaring which passes through verdant rainforests and beside nuptials on Maui. as distances are considerable. volcanic peaks connected by a largely agricultural gushing waterfalls. Return by way of the rugged The island abounds with terrific restaurants, The island has just one major hotel, the valley, Maui (www.gohawaii.com/maui) is the Piilani Highway from Hana around West Maui’s many of them at the big resorts, such as Ko at very gay-welcoming Aqua Hotel Molokai (www. second largest of the Hawaiian islands, home to “back side,” and the road hugs sheer sea cliffs and Fairmont Kea Lani, Spago at the Four Seasons, about 145,000 permanent residents. The majority hotelmolokai.com/), a fairly basic complex of cuts across sweeping plains strewn with jagged and Gannon’s at Grand Wailea. Locally renowned ‘70s A-frame bungalows, although the rooms of the 2.5 million visitors who arrive annually stay lava-rock formations. If at all possible, plan for an chef Peter Merriman’s hip Monkeypod Kitchen, in on the sunny and comparatively arid leeward coasts have been comfortably updated. The hotel is also overnight in Hana. Here you can stay at the historic, a shopping center at the Wailea Resort, is one of the home to one of the only full-service restaurants of Maui’s two halves, which include the historic unpretentious, and wonderfully charming Travaasa hottest new spots on the island, as is Star Noodle, fishing port of Lahaina, the modern Kaanapali and on the island, an open-air space overlooking the Hana Hotel (www.travaasa.com/hana) – if it’s a the stylish Pan-Asian eatery up in Lahaina, which small beach. The Hotel Molokai acts as one of the Kapalua resort areas, the ritzy Wailea resorts, and special occasion, splurge for a room in this boutique is also home to the first-rate Lahaina Grill and I’o island’s main social hubs, as there’s live music in the more reasonably priced town of Kihei. resort’s secluded, adult-oriented Sea Cottages Restaurant. A few other culinary highlights on Maui the evening. The easy pace and friendly mix of You’ll find a good mix of mid-priced to section. You’ll also find a handful of B&Bs in include Market Fresh Bistro in Makawao, Cafe locals and visitors makes for a striking contrast high-end resorts up around Kaanapali and Kapalua this laid-back village blessed with spectacular Mambo in Paia, and Izakaya Matsu in Kihei. For with hotels on the other islands. – good picks include the Hyatt Regency (maui. beaches, including the affordable, gay-owned Hana nightlife, the sophisticated but friendly Ambrosia Elsewhere, your best bets for dining are hyatt.com), Westin Maui (www.westinmaui.com), Accommodations (www.hana-maui.com). lounge is popular with GLBT patrons, especially Kamuela Cookhouse, which serves up tasty grilled Outrigger Maui Eldorado (www.outrigger.com), Even Maui’s main untouristy administrative on Sunday nights. seafood and prime rib, and Molokai Drive-in for and Ritz-Carlton Kapalua (www.ritzcarlton.com). center and county seat, Wailuku, has a cool In Wailea, which is close to the famously gay- historical museum, the Bailey House; and some Lanai burgers. The Molokai Coffee Plantation serves rich popular clothing-optional Little Beach at Makena, great little hole-in-the-wall restaurants (Tiffany’s, and robust brews using beans grown on the island. you’ll find such sumptuous accommodations as Tokyo Tei, Ba-Le Sandwiches); and it’s the gateway The gently sloping, conical island of Lanai And for breakfast or lunch, don’t miss Kanemitsu the Four Seasons Maui (www.fourseasons.com/ to the breathtaking Iao Valley. For an insider’s (www.gohawaii.com/lanai) is clearly visible Bakery. Each evening, after the bakery has maui), Grand Wailea (www.grandwailea.com), and perspective on local dining, book a half-day trip from the western shores of Maui, especially from officially closed, hungry diners line up at a takeout Fairmont Kea Lani (www.fairmont.com/kealani). through Tour da Food, whose knowledgeable Kaanapali and Lahaina – passenger ferries run window in the back alley to procure “hot bread.” Just a few miles north, Kihei contains several gay- guides Bonnie and Jill lead delicious culinary tours regularly from the pier in Lahaina to Lanai, and The disturbingly enormous loaves of chewy, rich oriented lodging, including the aforementioned in Wailuku and Upcountry Maui. the island also has regularly scheduled flights bread are doused with butter, cinnamon, jams, and Maui Sunseeker (www.mauisunseeker.com), a Maui has several businesses with strong from Maui and Oahu. Just 140 square miles, other toppings. It’s the sort of offbeat tradition stylish boutique resort catering mostly to gay GLBT ties. You can book a massage, either in your this is the smallest of Hawaii’s primary islands, that captures Molokai’s quirky, small-town vibe. men and lesbians. Other good GLBT bets in hotel room or at a lovely on-site studio overlooking and historically it was known for its massive Andrew Collins covers gay travel for the New York Kihei include the elegant Pineapple Inn (www. the ocean, from Relax Therapeutic Massage, whose pineapple plantation industry. Times-owned website GayTravel.About.com and pineappleinnmaui.com) and the affordable, owner Marty Guerriero is one of the most talented Although it’s still a low-keyed, mostly is the author of Fodor’s Gay Guide to the USA. whimsically furnished Two Mermaids (www. massage therapists on the island. Gay-owned No undeveloped island, Lanai has become twomermaids.com). Ka Oi Adventures leads exceptionally fun and increasingly popular with jetsetters thanks to its He can be reached care of this publication or at Strike out beyond Maui’s leeward shores to engaging custom half- and full-day tours around pair of stunning Four Seasons resorts, the historic [email protected]. www.PrideSource.com Theater / January 12, 2012 / BTL 23 ‘Nunset Boulevard’ is habit-ual fun

Stephanie Wahl, Jeanne Tinker and Bambi Jones in “Nunset Boulevard” at Meadow Brook Theatre. Photo: Dan Goggin

BY JOHN QUINN REVIEW shoes. But the charm of “Boulevard” is in the performances rather than the material. My college literature professor, Nunset Boulevard We aren’t disappointed. Theophilus Punoval, related that author Meadow Brook Theatre, 2200 N. Squirrel Playwright Dan Goggin revives Samuel Johnson considered the pun the Rd., Rochester. Wednesday-Sunday through his characters: Sister Robert Anne (Teri “lowest form of humor.” Clearly neither Jan. 29. $24-39. 248-370-3300. Gibson), a Brooklyn-born wiseacre; the good doctor nor the professor ever www.mbtheatre.com Mother Superior Mary Regina (Laurie caught an episode of “Two and a Half Birmingham), a former circus performer Men,” but I digress. Puns can not only be fond of recalling her past; her competitive funny (punny?), they can be satisfyingly the seedy Hollywood Bowl-a-Rama and Number One, Sister Mary Hubert (Bambi descriptive. I mean, what can be more apt Cabaret Lounge. Unshaken, our plucky than a Muppet-inspired character named band proceeds in the finest “show must Jones); Sister Mary Leo (Stephanie Sister Mary Annette? (Say it out loud. go on” tradition. Wahl), the Dancing Nun; and Sister You’ll catch on.) An unlikely source (the afore- Mary Paul (Jeanne Tinker), who lost her Consider also the title of Dan mentioned Sr. Mary Annette) drops memory when a crucifix fell on her head. Goggin’s 1985 hit, “Nunsense.” The the hint that auditions are being held Since she has regained her memory, she musical is silly, superficial and a strain for “Nunset Boulevard,” the bio-pic of is no longer Sister Amnesia, but still on your suspension of disbelief. But all actress Dolores Hart (“Where the Boys retains a childlike wonder and innocence. this nonsense rolled up impressive box Are”), who left film and took the veil at Bonnie Lee will be stepping into the role office numbers, and “Nunsense” is the the Benedictine Abbey of Regina Laudis of Mother Superior after the 18th. second-longest running off-Broadway in Bethlehem, Connecticut. With more All five women are in great voice, production, surpassed only by “The stars in their eyes than on the Hollywood capable of big belt and soft quaver alike. Walk of Fame, the sisters think they’re Fantastiks.” It’s spawned a number of Conductor “Brother” Michael Rice fronts naturals for the film. After all, they don’t sequels; the latest, “Nunset Boulevard,” a quartet of musicians; Mike Duncan’s have to ACT like nuns; they ARE nuns. leads off the New Year at Meadow Brook sound design provides a beautiful balance Theatre. Granted, that plot is about as solid between words and music. Teri Gibson In “Nunsense,” the surviving as a Kardashian marriage vow, but it does double duty as choreographer; the members of the Little Sisters of Hoboken only needs to provide an excuse for Convent at Mount St. Helen’s Parish musical numbers and two awful audience dance numbers are a little madcap but staged a variety show to raise funds. participation games, “Sisters in Cinema” entertaining. In sum, a hint of classic Since then, the stage-struck quintet and “The Price is Righteous.” In all, the vaudeville pervades this show. is in the habit of treading the boards humor in “Nunset Boulevard” is derived “Nunset Boulevard” doesn’t pretend whenever the offering plate runs dry. This less from the Church and more from to be “The Song of Bernadette,” so it time they’ve been coerced into a trip to Babylon on the Pacific. Of course, there is would not be a nun sequitur if I suggest L.A., thinking they were booked for the whimsy in watching a be-wimpled chorus that a light dose of harmless humor might Hollywood Bowl. Their venue is actually line kick up their heels in sensible black be the antidote to dark January nights. 24 BTL \ January 12, 2012 \ Happenings www.PrideSource.com

RSVP on Meetup site before Jan. 1. by phone. Equality Michigan, 25228 W. 12 Plymouth Lesbian Supper Group, 36071 Mile Road, Southfield. 313-537-7000 Ex. Editor’s Picks Plymouth Road, Livonia. 734-261-0555. 102. Equalitymi.org OUTINGS Ozone House’s QueerZone 6:30 p.m. The Conversation Station 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11 QueerZone is an Ypsilanti-based program LGBTQI 25 and over, join GOAL each Outings that provides a safe space for LGBTQ week for discussion, food and fun. Topic: Ladies Who Lunch 11:30 a.m. Ladies youth to congregate, socialize, build Pretend you are writing an ad for the meet at Nina’s Cafe for food and Join Affirmations in celebrating community and access support services Personals. What would it say (can be conversation. Contact Angie to make a as needed. LGBTQ youth ages 13-20 serious or funny)? Get Out And Live!, and understanding the relationship reservation. The Resource Center, 1710 W. are also encouraged to join Queerzone’s 714 S. Washington St., Royal Oak. 248- Main St., Kalamazoo. Angiehosewillard@ private, confidential Facebook group to 981-4227. [email protected] between faith and the LGBT yahoo.com kglrc.org community through an evening of keep in touch with other queer youth. GetOutAndLive.me Trans-Masculine Trauma Recovery Ozone House, 1705 Washtenaw, Ann film and discussion. Group 4:30 p.m. This free recovery group Arbor. 734-662-2265. Ozonehouse.org Wednesday, Jan. 18 Faith and the LGBT Community is by registration only. It will last for 8 Older Lesbians Organizing 7 p.m. Gay Families Matter - Lansing Rally begins with the film “Fences,” which weeks and will be led by an experienced Provides older Lesbians with the 12 p.m. Recently, MichiganXXs congress trauma counselor and facilitator. Please follows present-day Affirmations chance to meet like minded women passed a law banning public employers call 734-998-2150 if you are interested. in their common struggles, to share from offering domestic partnership Executive Director Dave Garcia The location has lots of free parking and mutual interests and to play and work benefits, which Governor Snyder then is wheelchair accessible. University of together. Meets the 2nd Friday of every signed into law. Join the LGBT community through his childhood, his 60-mile Michigan Comprehensive Gender Services march to Lansing, up to a 2005 trip to month. Older Lesbians Organizing, 319 center on the capital steps in Lansing Program, 2025 Traverwood, Suite A1, Ann Braun Court, Ann Arbor. 734 6782478. on Wednesday, January 18, at noon. Portland. During this trip, Garcia asks Dave Garcia Arbor. 734-998-2150. [email protected] [email protected] Let congress know that gay families members of the religious right for their med.umich.edu/transgender matter and deserve to be treated Womyn’s Film Night 7 p.m. Film: Red equally! For more information, contact opinions on the LGBT community. GOAL Writing Group 7 p.m. An LGBTQ Doors. Recently retired, Ed Wong longs and allied writing club. Discussion the local community center nearest you: The documentary will be followed by a panel discussion with Bishop Gumbleton, Darlene to break away from the monotony of his Affirmations, Jim Toy Community Center, surrounds favorite authors, challenging daily life, but the outlandish dramas of Franklin of Agape Spirit Life Ministries and Linda Karle-Nelson and Tom Nelson of Fortunate projects, assistance from peers, goals Kalamazoo Gay and Lesbian Community his daughters Samantha, Julie and Katie Center, KICK,Out Center, Ruth Ellis Center, Families and Garcia. Light refreshments will be provided. and all things writing-related. Get Out And make escape difficult for this father of Live!, 714 S. Washington St., Royal Oak. the LGBT Network of Western Michigan. Faith and the LGBT Community is 7 p.m. Jan. 12 at Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile Road. three. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Affirmations, Jim Toy Community Center, Getoutandlive.me Ferndale. 248-398-7105. Goaffirmations.org For more information, go to www.goaffirmations.org or call Director of Programs Johnny Kalamazoo Gay and Lesbian Community Center, KICK,Out Center, Ruth Ellis Center, Jenkins at 248-398-7105. Thursday, Jan. 12 Saturday, Jan. 14 the LGBT Network of Western Michigan., Faith and the LGBT Community 7 p.m. Pancake Breakfast 10 a.m. Breakfast The Capitol Building, Lansing. 248-398- Join Affirmations for an evening featuring followed by AA meeting with open speaker: 7105. https://www.facebook.com/ Art ‘n’ Around a screening of the documentary “Fences,” Bill R. from Grand Rapids. Cost: $8. events/218246958259113 and a panel discussion with faith leaders Together We Can, 2441 Pinecrest, Ferndale. and laypersons. The event will be facilitated 248.838.9905. [email protected] For the month of January, Kerrytown by Affirmations Executive Director, Antonio Thursday, Jan. 19 Concert House’s art gallery presents Oil David Garcia and panelists include Bishop Mitten Mavens Roller Derby Polyamory Network 7:30 p.m. Open and inclusive community of people Paintings by Denis Lee. Lee, a professor of Gumbleton; Darlene Franklin, Founding Snowpocalypse 5 p.m. Lansing’s Mitten Minister of Agape Spirit Life Ministries; Mavens Roller Derby takes on the Chemical living polyamorously, people interested the University of Michigan, has served on the and special guests Linda Karle-Nelson City Derby Girls from Midland. Doors open in polyamory and people of, friendly to faculty for over 30 years as a Professor of Art and Tom Nelson with Fortunate Families. 6 p.m., Game begins at 7. Admission: and curious about polyamory. Welcomes Light refreshments will be provided. For $10. Mitten Mavens, Kalamazoo St, East diversity of sexual orientation and and Design as well as Postgraduate Medicine. more information, contact Johnny Jenkins, Lansing. [email protected] gender identity. Polyamory Network, 319 His degree in Zoology and a love for art led Director of Programs. Affirmations, 290 MittenMavens.net Braun Court, Ann Arbor. 734 6782478. him to a Master’s in Medical Illustration. Now W. 9 Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. Jimtoycenter.org Goaffirmations.org Motor City Bears 7 p.m. Social group for retired, Lee has produced unique sculptures metro area bears. Meets every second Friday, Jan. 20 and paintings using the vibrant colors of Feast of St. Aelred 7 p.m. The feast of the Saturday of the month. Motor City Bears, Patron Saint of Integrity USA, St. Aelred. 290 W. 9 Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398- Bisexual Peer Group 7 p.m. Meets insects, plants and, particularly, sea life as Fellowship and refreshments will follow 7105. Goaffirmations.org monthly on the third Friday. Discussion inspiration. the service. Integrity USA is a nonprofit relating to bisexuality, pansexuality, organization of LGBT Episcopalians and Sunday, Jan. 15 omnisexuality. Allies are encouraged Lee has won numerous awards for his their straight allies. Since their founding and welcomed to attend. Building is 12:15 p.m. GOAL artwork and sculpture. He has appeared on by Dr. Louie Crew in rural Georgia in 1974, GOAL Bowling Night handicapped accessible using ramp to is teaming up with a bowling group that Integrity has been the leading grassroots rear entrance. Bisexual Peer Group, 319 the “Today Show,” “The Donahue Show” started up in early fall 2010. This is a voice for the full inclusion of LGBT Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-678-2478. nonleague-bowling group. Their goal is and has been featured in People, Newsweek persons in the Episcopal Church and equal [email protected] to get the community together. GOAL and National Geographic. One of the many prosthetic eyes he sculpted for his patients appeared in access to its rites. Integrity USA, 4252 bowls every third Sunday of the month. Womyn’s Film Night 7 p.m. Film: Affinity Breton Rd. SE, Kentwood. 616-949-7034. the National Geographic 100 Best Photos. Get Out And Live!, 600 E. Nine Mile Road, = When wealthy 19th-century socialite [email protected] Lee’s oil paintings are displayed in the Kerrytown Concert House’s art gallery until Jan. 29. Ferndale. Getoutandlive.me Margaret Prior tries to find purpose in her Meet ‘n Greet 7 p.m. Meet new people, life by volunteering at a women’s prison, For more information, go to www.kerrytownconcerthouse.com. For more information on Denis Lee, 2 p.m. New gay socialize and discuss age-relevant issues. Coffee with the Guys she becomes obsessed with one inmate men’s group. No dues. No requirements. visit his website at denisclee.com. Dinner at local restaurant afterwards. whose gifts for the paranormal hold a Opportunity to expand social circles in Ages 18-33. Metro Detroit LGBT special attraction. Affirmations, 290 W. a safe non-bar atmosphere. The coffee 20Somethings, 222 E. Nine Mile Road, Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. and conversation are free. West Michigan Theater Ferndale. [email protected] Goaffirmations.org Pride, 211 Logan St. SW, . the20somethings.org2nd Annual Big Ethical Grand Rapids Westmipride.org “Lost in Yonkers,” which opens at the Question Slam 8 p.m. Once again, the Slam Saturday, Jan. 21 Village Players Playhouse on Friday, Jan. will shine a spotlight on some of the big PFLAG Ann Arbor Meeting 2 p.m. 3rd GLSEN Bowl-a-thon 5 p.m. A fundraiser 13, is the only play by Neil Simon to win questions of our time. And once again Ann Sunday of every month. Support group to support our work creating safe Arbor Ethics invites community groups to and monthly speaker at each meeting. school environments for LGBT students. both a Tony Award and a Pulitzer Prize. form teams and tackle some big, vexing PFLAG Ann Arbor, 306 N. Division St., Ann Tickets are $25 if ordered online, $35 If there has ever been a play that questions in convivial surroundings. Winning Arbor. Pflagaa.org at the door. Ticket includes food, soft team will receive $600. Ann Arbor Ethics, drink, shoe rental, and two games of meets the description of “giving its PFLAG Lenawee Social and Support 318 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. A2Ethics.org bowling. Cash bar. GLSEN Southeast Group Meeting 3 p.m. PFLAG Lenawee audience both laughter and tears,” this Michigan, 4120 Woodward Ave., . is a local support and advocacy group for Detroit 248-716-0106. [email protected] is it. Two teenage boys are forced to live Friday, Jan. 13 Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered, brownpapertickets.com/event/213647 with their tyrannical grandmother in her Riot Youth Weekly Meeting 4 p.m. Riot Queer, Questioning, Intersexed individuals emotionally dysfunctional household at Youth is a youth-led, safe space for lesbian, and their family, friends and allies. PFLAG MCCD Euchre Tournament 7 p.m. Prize gay, bisexual, transgendered, queer, Lenawee, 1247 E Siena Heights Dr., Adrian. for the winning team. Desserts and the beginning of World War II. Set in questioning youth and their allies (LGBTQQA) 517-605-4827. [email protected] coffee served. A $10 donation is asked their home over their candy store, the at the Neutral Zone, Ann Arbor’s youth- sites.google.com/site/pflaglenawee of participants. Metropolitan Community driven teen center. Through leadership skill Church of Detroit, 2441 Pinecrest, play introduces the audience to the rest A Diamond Celebration of Henry building, community organizing, networking, Ferndale. 248-399-7741. Mccdetroit.org/ of the dysfunctional family: a small-time support and socializing, Riot Youth connects Messer & Carl House 5 p.m. Join gangster, a mentally challenged daughter, and two other children who live in fear of grandma. youth to build an inclusive community. Equality Michigan in celebrating Henry Perceptions’ Facility Open House 7 Meets every Friday. The Neutral Zone, 310 E. and Carl’s 60th Anniversary. Dr. Henry p.m. LGBT service network Perceptions Performances are 8 p.m. Jan. 13, 14, 20, 21 and 2 p.m. Jan. 15 and 22 at the Village Washington St., Ann Arbor. 734-214-9995. Messer has been a crucial supporter of hosts an open house for their new Players Playhouse, 34660 Woodward, in Birmingham. Tickets are $17. For more information, Neutral-zong.org Equality Michigan for many years and was facility. Perceptions’ open house is also a call 248-644-2075. a co-founder of the Triangle Foundation. fundraiser to encourage donations to the Dinner and a Show at Joey’s Comedy This event will benefit Equality Michigan. facility fund, which supports the purchase Club 6:15 p.m. Tickets: $30 per person. Tickets are $120 and may be purchased www.PrideSource.com Happenings / January 12, 2012 / BTL 25 For expanded listings & to add a listing, visit our website of furnishings, equipment, and supplies Music Theatre, 318 W. 4th St., Royal crawlspacetheatre.com for Perceptions new facility. In lieu of a Oak. 6:30 p.m. Jan. 13. 248-399-2980. financial donation, donors can also choose Royaloakmusictheatre.com Tearful Release $10. Planet Ant Theatre, to gift an item from a “wish list” which 2357 Caniff St., Hamtramck. Through Jan. Perceptions features on its website. This free The Ark “Keb Mo’” With special guest 21. 313-365-4948. www.planetant.com Anders Osborne. Keb’ Mo’ is the musician includes complimentary hors d’oeuvres and The Cripple of Inishmaan Plays in beverages. Perceptions Saginaw Valley, 301 who reinvented the blues for modern times. Born Kevin Moore and a native rotating repertory. $12-30. Hilberry Cass St., Old Town Saginaw. 989-891- Theatre, Detroit. Through Feb. 4. 313-577- 1429. PerceptionsSV.org of the same South Los Angeles streets that spawned hip-hop’s most aggressive 2972. www.hilberry.com Confessions on a Choir Stage 8 p.m. strand, he grew up with the blues and The Tempest $40. Park Bar, 2040 Park A retrospective of Out Laud’s favorites turned to the acoustic blues of the Ave., Detroit. Through Jan. 21. 313-444- performed by Washtenaw County’s Mississippi Delta after playing a bluesman 2294. www.parkbardetroit.com original, mixed LGBT chorus. Tickets: $10 in a Los Angeles stage production. Tickets: in advance, $13 at door, $5 students. $39.50. The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Director Dan Gerics leads the chorus. Out Arbor. 10:30 a.m. Dec. 7, 8 p.m. Jan. 20. Loud Chorus, 4800 E Huron, Ann Arbor. 734-761-1818. Theark.org 734-265-0740. olconline.org ART ‘N’ THEATER AROUND MUSIC & Downriver Council for the Arts “The CIVIC/COMMUNITY THEATER A New Brain $19-$23. Kalamazoo Civic Colors of Winter “ Winter Mixed Media Theatre at Parish Theatre, 426 S. Park St., Fine Art Show at the Wyandotte Arts Kalamazoo. Jan. 13 - 29. 269-343-1313. Center. Work inspired by winter and MORE activities that relate to the season. www.kazoocivic.com Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase “Myq Downriver Council for the Arts, 81 Kaplan” Made his network television Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Chestnut, Wyandotte. Dec. 1 - Jan. 13. debut on the Tonight Show with Conan. Dreamcoat $16. Sky’s the Limit Downriverarts.org Self-identified as Jewy-ish atheistic vegan Productions at The Berman Center, 6600 who spells his name weird. Tickets: $11- W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield. Jan. 12 - Kerrytown Concert House “Oil Paintings 14. Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase, 314 E. 22. 248-661-1900. www.TheBerman.org by Denis Lee” Visual artist Denis Lee’s Liberty St., Ann Arbor. Jan. 19 - Jan. 21. work combines the vibrant colors of 734-996-9080. Aacomedy.com Lost in Yonkers $17. Village Players, insects plants and particularly sea life. 24660 Woodward Ave., Birmingham. Denis Lee is Professor Emeritus at Detroit Chamber Winds & Strings Jan. 13 - 22. 248-644-2075. www. the University of Michigan. Kerrytown “Nightnotes The Next Generation “ Enjoy birminghamvillageplayers.com Concert House, 415 N. Fourth Ave., Ann works performed by Mosaic Youth Theatre Arbor. Jan. 4 - Jan. 27. 734-769-2999. and DCWS young ensemble-in-residence, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Kerrytownconcerthouse.com Amusia, from the Oberlin Conservatory Dead $12-14. Riverwalk Theatre, 228 of Music. Hagopian World of Rugs, 850 Museum Dr., Lansing. Jan. 12 - 22. 482- Lawrence Street Gallery “Best of the Old Woodward, Birmingham, MI 48009, 5700. www.riverwalktheatre.com Best” Twelve prizewinning artists from the Gallery’s four annual juried shows Birmingham. 6:30 p.m. Jan. 13. 810-577- Sunday Night $17. Motor City Musical 6888. Detroitchamberwinds.org (invitational, figurative, photography and Theatre at Grantland Street Playhouse, small works) will be given space to exhibit Detroit Symphony Orchestra “Gershwin 27555 Grantland, Livonia. Through Jan. a larger selection of their work. Lawrence and the American Songbook” The 15. 313-535-8962. Street Gallery, 22620 Woodward Ave., “Fascinatin’ Rhythms” of George Ferndale. Jan. 11 - Jan. 28. 248-544-0394. Gershwin will fill the Orchestra Hall as PROFESSIONAL Lawrencestreetgallery.com Ann Hampton Callaway sings the very A Bright Room Called Day $10-$20. The best from the Gershwin songbook. Tickets: Ringwald Theatre, 22742 Woodward Ave., Michigan State University Museum $19. Detroit Symphony Orchestra, 3711 Ferndale. Jan. 14 - 30. 248-545-5545. “POW-erful Design: Adaptation as Woodward Ave., Detroit. Jan. 13 - Jan. 15. whowantscaketheatre.com Inspiration for Technology” The 313-576-5100. Dso.org inspiration for da Vinci’s Ornithopter Bernhardt on Broadway: The Musical flying machine may have come from Kerrytown Concert House “American $25. Towsley Auditorium, Morris Lawrence Greek mythology’s Icarus and his Art Song - Album Release Recital” Join Building, Ann Arbor. Jan. 14. 734-864- constructed wings. Circle Drive, East soprano Alissa Deeter, baritone Robert 3244. www.BerndhardtOnBroadway.com Lansing. Jan. 1 - June 24. 517-355- Peavler and pianist Arlene Shrut to 2370. Museum.msu.edu celebrate the release of the recording Burying the Bones $17-20. Detroit American Art Song. Tickets: $5-25. Repertory Theatre, 13103 Woodrow The Detroit Institute of Arts “Once Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N. Fourth Wilson, Detroit. Jan. 12 - March 18. 313- Upon a Time: Prints and Drawings that Ave., Ann Arbor. 4 p.m. Jan. 15. 734-769- 868-1347. www.detroitreptheatre.com Tell Stories” Telling stories through prints and drawings. Includes selections 2999. Kerrytownconcerthouse.com God of Carnage Previews Jan. 12-15 from familiar series, portfolios and & 19 ($15-$21). $22-41. Performance Majestic Theatre “Battle of the Dragons” books, as well as several examples that Network, Performance Network Theatre, Fashion and Drag Show competition; have rarely or never been seen. Detroit 120 E. Huron St., Ann Arbor. Jan. a benefit for the American Foundation Institute of Arts, 2100 Woodward, 13 - Feb. 19. 734-663-0681. www. for children with AIDS. Divas battle Detroit. Dec. 18 - Jan. 29. 313-833- performancenetwork.org it out to be the next drag face of Top 7900. Dia.org Secret Cosmetics. Show also includes It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play The Gallery Project “Post Apocalypse” our Sexy Dragon Dancers, and dragon Happen Stance Productions at Andiamo Exposes all the doomsday scenarios themed models. Tickets: $10-20. The Novi Theatre, 42705 Grand River Ave., that are out there, everything from the Majestic Theatre, 4120 Woodward Ave., Novi. Through Jan. 15. 248-348-4448. end of the world to the Rapture. The Detroit. 8 p.m. Jan. 20. 313-833-9700. www.ticketmaster.com Majesticdetroit.com Gallery Project, 215 S. Fourth Ave., Ann Monday Night Improv $5. Planet Ant Arbor. Dec. 14 - Jan. 21. 734-997-7012. Michigan Philharmonic “Miniature Theatre, 2357 Caniff Ave., Hamtramck. Thegalleryproject.com Masterpieces” Featuring “big” music for Through Jan. 23. 313-365-4948. www. University of Michigan Museum of Art small orchestra with works by Debussy, planetant.com Rossini, Myers and Mahler with mezzo- “Face of Our Time” Examines more than soprano Melody Racine. Individual Concert Nunset Boulevard $24-39. Meadow 100 works by five photographers-Jacob tickets: $22 general, $18 senior and $10 Brook Theatre, 2200 N. Squirrel Rd., Aue Sobol, Jim Goldberg, Zanele Muholi, student. Full subscriptions available online. Rochester. Through Jan. 29. 248-370- Daniel Schwartz, and Richard Misrach- St. John’s Seminary Chapel, 44045 Five Mile 3300. www.Ticketmaster.com who operate within what Walker Evans Road, Plymouth. 2 p.m. Jan. 15, 2 p.m. Jan. referred to as the “documentary style.” Redenbacher 3D $10. Crawlspace 15. 734-453-0870. Michiganphil.org University of Michigan Museum of Art, 525 Eviction at Farmers Alley Theatre, S. State St., Ann Arbor. Nov. 12 - Feb. 29. Olympia Entertainment “Young Jeezy” 221 Farmers Alley, Kalamazoo. 734-764-0395. Umma.umich.edu With special guests Travis Porter and Jan. 13 - 14. 269-599-7390. www. 2 Chainz. Tickets: $59, 69, 79, and 89. Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 8 p.m. Jan. 14. 800-745-3000. Olympiaentertainment.com Royal Oak Music Theatre “In Flames” With special guests Trivium, Veil of Maya and Kyng. Tickets: $20. Royal Oak 26 BTL \ January 12, 2012 \ Rear View www.PrideSource.com Classifieds Dating Diet

101-ANNOUNCEMNTS 320 EMPLOYMENT - LGBT AA MEETINGS WANTED To place a House of I’m not going to sleep with you just because Ann Arbor-Friday Ruth Ellis Center classified ad Love 7:30 pm, St. Andrews Episcopal Hiring for direct care workers. you’re homeless and Church Gay AA, 306 N. Division Must have a high school with us, visit St. Closed/Discussion. diploma or equivalent (GED) BY ANTHONY PAULL and 2 years of experience shake your nuts at me Bloomfield Hills- working with youth between PRIDESOURCE.COM/ Thursday the ages of 12 and 21 is id I miss the when I’m walking on preferred. Please send resume classifieds memo? Since 7:00 pm ,Sobriety in The Hills by mail, fax (313) 865-3372, Gay AA, Kirk in The Hills Church, or email to info@ruthelliscenter. or call us at when is it all Main Street. 1340 W. Long Lake Rd. Closed/ org. No phone calls please. right to solicit someoneD for sex in the middle of Discussion. the day without offering food or money? Detroit-Tuesday / Friday 888.615.7003 I mean, I know that I look hot and virginal in my skinny jeans but come on. I’m not going 8:00 pm, Downtown Gay AA, Organizing for ext. 22 Fort Street Presbyterian Church, America Michigan to sleep with you just because you’re homeless 631 West Fort St. Closed/ Organizing for America in and shake your nuts at me when I’m walking one party ‘til the next. But it’s not my Discussion (Open 1st Friday of Michigan is currently accepting every month). on Main Street. I mean, I might sleep with you fault. Remember, I inherited it from mom. resumes and interviewing for if you had a sleigh bed or a spiffy shopping Therefore, I roll with the punches, refusing Farmington Hills- the following three positions: cart, but a bicycle? How am I supposed to get to bat an eye when Matt receives a text, Monday • Youth Vote Director • Deputy Field Director off on a bicycle? stating there’s an orgy at his house. I kind 8:00 pm, Suburban West Gay • Press Secretary “Remove the seat,” says my friend Matt. of expect it. On vacation, he left his place, two AA, Universalist Unitarian Church, 25301 Halstead Resumes can be sent to Walking beside me, he laughs as a homeless hours away, in the hands of a loser “friend.” (Between 10 & 11 Mile Roads) [email protected] or guy flags me down, boasting about his penis. Thankfully, he had another friend advise him Closed / Discussion. to garwa@barackobama. com. Candidates interested For some reason, the guy thinks I give a of the situation. The Craigslist ad indicates his Ferndale-Monday / in opportunities outside of hoot. Like I’m an amateur who gets off on gate code and address. Wednesday / Friday Michigan can go to http:// measurements. I mean, big is fine but I don’t “Is this part of the holidays too?” I ask him. www.barackobama.com/jobs 11:30 a.m., Brown Baggers Gay need to be murdered by it. Bolting, he tells me he has to drive home. AA, Affirmations, 290 West 9 “Is this really happening?” I question aloud. He left his dogs at his house, and what if they’re Mile Rd. Closed/Discussion. 428 PROF. SERVICES Avoiding eye contact, I cross the street. Still, the involved in this? I mean, at this point, how low Ferndale-Wednesday - MASSAGE homeless man circles me with his bike. “Did I can it go? I join him to see. do something wrong?” “The ad says to take off our clothes at the 8 p.m., Diversity Wednesday Gay AA, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, GROUP MASSAGE “Just…keep...walking,” Matt replies. “Do door,” Matt winks, as we drive to his place. 540 W. Lewiston @ Livernois. not engage.” “Someone is supposed to escort us to the Closed/Discussion. - For Gay and Bisexual Men. Learn some massage I fill with anxiety, pulling my hoodie over master suite.” Ferndale-Saturday techniques and meet others in my head. “Good lord, am I so gay that some dude “You mean, your room?” I reply. a safe and caring environment. “Yeah,” he says, making a joke of it. 1 p.m. Brown Baggers Gay AA, Tuesdays and Saturdays at thinks it’s OK to tell me he’s going to screw me Affirmations, 290 West 9 Mile Rd. 8 p.m. Thursdays at 2 p.m. in pure daylight?” “You think this is funny?” Closed/Discussion. $10 per session. 209 West We take the long route to my car, through “Kind of,” he says. “It’s not a big deal. We’ll 8 p.m. Go After Your Sobriety Gay Kingsley in downtown Ann the library, making a pit stop at the local coffee just kick them out.” AA, Drayton Ave Presbyterian Arbor. (734) 662-6282 or email Church, 2441 Pinecrest. Closed/ [email protected]. http:// shop. I have a meltdown over peppermint tea. I strain a laugh, trying to make sense of Discussion. www.trymassage.com “Just relax. The guy’s crazy,” Matt states. it. Here we are, battling holiday traffic, where “Probably,” I agree. Still I’m upset. “I Christmas trees are neatly tied to car roofs, Livonia-Friday mean, it wouldn’t be a huge deal but it’s the where families head to unite with loved ones. 8 p.m., West Side Story’s Gay holidays,” I explain. “I’m having a hard enough Meanwhile, we’re en route to see lovemaking AA, Providence Medical Center, 7 Mile & Newburgh. Closed/ time with all of my friends having babies and strangers. It’s going to be a white Christmas, Discussion. my dad telling everyone that I inherited the gay yes, but splashed on some random guy’s back. Pontiac-Tuesday / gene from my mother. I’m lost enough. I don’t The image makes me feel faint. “I just want to Thursday / Sunday need this shit.” be normal,” I admit. “You’re just feeling what everyone feels “No you don’t,” Matt returns, refusing to 8 p.m., Pontiac Gay AA, Shrine of St. Joseph, 400 West South around the holidays.” feed my drama. “You’d be bored with normal. Blvd. Closed/Discussion. “What’s that?” With having a baby and sitting home every night. Warren-Monday “Completely fucked,” he says. “I mean, That’s ok for other people. Not for you.” you’ll be OK. Everyone gets sad this time of “Why not?” 7:30 p.m., Eastside Serenity Gay “Because you’re a writer. You need a AA, Faith-Trinity United Church of year. We’re all in the same boat.” Christ, 12221 Martin Rd. East of To place a classified ad with us, I nod. However, I don’t think all of my story,” he says. “That’s all this is, just a story. Hoover. Closed/Discussion. visit PRIDESOURCE.COM/classifieds friends are being propositioned by homeless Can’t you enjoy it?” We pull into his perfect men and puking at police stations at the stroke green subdivision, everything manicured, and I or call us at 888.615.7003 ext. 22 of midnight. Yeah, that happened too. But this let out a breath. I don’t feel right, engulfed by is the life of a socialite. I try to wear my crown such perfection. I feel bored, excited only about with pride, but I’m beginning to wonder if what waits beyond the bend. “I could take you being superficial is really worth the headache. I to your dad’s house,” Matt says. “You can spend mean, shouldn’t I be having a Hallmark moment the whole day blaming your mom for this. Is that sometime soon? I thought that I would turn 30 what you want?” and give a shit about something other than being I grin, telling him to go straight or gaily a total heathen. I guess not. Oops. forward and together we laugh as he presses Maybe Dad’s right. Being gay is just on the gas. www.PrideSource.com Rear View / January 12, 2012 / BTL 27 Horoscopes Keep your eyes open, Libra!

BY JACK FERTIG

Mars in Virgo quincunx to Eris can make people bitchy and competitive. As the Sun aspects those two you can see better how to turn that energy to constructive self-criticism. Mercury conjoining Pluto in Capricorn focuses that energy and raises the stakes.

ARIES (March 20 – April 19): open and your mind clear. If you Getting ahead depends on self- do get swept off your feet, you discipline, attention to details will have to pick up the mess. and questions of skill. Subtle SCORPIO (October 23 – hints from superiors can save November 21): Pressure at you a lot of grief. The Golden work is largely in your own Rule may not alleviate confusion head. Largely. Plan long-term in your relationships, but it will strategies, and remember that make it more manageable. they will have to be flexible. TAURUS (April 20 – May Burning off energy with some 20): Worrying about your friends will help you from being career doesn’t help, but list real a pain to your colleagues. concerns and look for practical SAGITTARIUS (November answers. “Helpful” friends will 22 – December 20): Do your offer hundreds of ideas. A few best work and let it speak for of those are actually very good. itself. You don’t need to prove A relaxing time out would help anything, especially to family you restore clarity. members. When those nagging GEMINI (May 21- June 20): voices fill your brain, identify Sexual frustration is about where they come from and you quality, not quantity. The need for can get rid of them. emotional depth and commitment CAPRICORN (December 21 may surprise you. If partnered, – January 19): Even if things you’re overdue for a good talk. have been going well lately, be If single, discuss it with someone very careful with your money. whose wisdom you respect or A deal that sounds too good to write your feelings down. be true is. Set aside a little for CANCER (June 21- July 22): an impulsive indulgence. If you It’s too easy to obsess on minutiae. can’t say anything nice, go chat Better to clear out garbage and with Virgo. clutter. Your partner or another AQUARIUS (January 20 – good friend will be glad to help Visit our website! February 18): Check out an you decide what needs to go. http://www.pridesource.com art show with something very Let a sibling get saddled with the new and different, or rent the family keepsakes. Add our fan page! most outré movie you can find. Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” LEO (July 23 – August 22): It could inspire a new look, but Being sensitive to others will test it with a very trusted friend help you get ahead, but don’t before you take it public! Follow us! give away the store; keep terms @YourBTL PISCES (February 19 – March and boundaries clear. Confusion 19): Be careful that the only too easily feeds into arguments. secrets you reveal are your own. Keeping a critical eye on Solution to puzzle from page 28 Even then the deep personal PUZZLE SOLUTION your own human and material insights you’re gaining should resources can fend off trouble. be kept private. Well, mostly. VIRGO (August 23 – September You may find earning power in 22): A mad, passionate fling may skills you haven’t appreciated. leave you spinning and wanting more. It’s not love, so keep Jack Fertig, a professional your expectations in check. astrologer since 1977, is available Your wicked tongue is a potent for personal and business weapon. Be careful where you consultations in person in San aim that thing! Francisco, or online everywhere. LIBRA (September 23 – He can be reached at 415-864- October 22): Would a fleeting, 8302, through his website at tawdry affair make you feel cheap and used? That could be www.starjack.com, and by email half the fun. Keep your eyes at [email protected]. 28 BTL \ January 12, 2012 \ Rear View www.PrideSource.com Pet of the Week Meet Hannah! n 8-year-old Australian ACattledog mix, Hannah weighs 50 pounds and is waiting patiently to meet you. Quiet and calm, Hannah has excellent manners and needs someone to be gentle and kind with her. Come meet her today! The adoption fee includes sterilization, age-appropriate vaccinations and much more. For more information, visit or call the Michigan Humane Society’s Rochester Hills Center for Animal Care at (248) 852-7420 and provide the pet ID number, 702238.

Work It! Across 48 “Men Behaving Badly” writer Simon 11 Cuban coins 49 Cries of surprise 13 Start of the motto of “Work It!” 1 Posed for Annie Leibovitz 50 Lightweight recorder 14 “Nuts!” 4 President without a first lady Buchanan 54 “If I Were King of the Forest” singer 19 More of the motto 9 With it 56 Like a good alibi 21 More of the motto 12 Uncomfortable threesome 58 “Modern Family,” e.g. 25 Rubber ducky spots 15 Hersey’s bell town 61 Thespian Miriam 26 Thames college 16 Crack fighter pilot 63 Horny creature 28 Zoo barrier 17 Male type 64 Saucer pilots 29 More of the motto 18 Big Easy festival 65 Choir closet contents 33 Frozen dessert chain 20 Photog Mapplethorpe 66 Brief fight 35 Old part of town 22 Amelie of tennis 67 “Look at Me, I’m Sandra ___” 36 Valuable vein 23 Word used in dating 68 Used brooms 37 He took a bow 24 Cuts canines 69 In the distance 40 End of the motto 25 Big top, e.g. 43 Helps in a difficult situation 27 Dave Pallone, once 47 Candle material 30 Chef Traci ___ Jardins 50 Played charades 31 State where once two women could Down 51 Fit to be tied be in a marriage 1 Fey villain in “The Lion King” 52 Viking-liking 32 Joint problem 2 Folk first name 53 “We’ll see” 34 Token taker 3 Main comic into bottoms? 55 Brings to light 38 Erection, in slang 4 Fruity spread 57 Bottomless 39 Survivor Richard 5 Gay video directory name 59 Atop 41 ___ about 6 French Revolution figure 60 Show bottom 42 Hose woes for drag queens 7 Invested 62 Atlantic crosser of old 44 Choice for Hamlet 8 Affairs in the evening 45 Bring down 9 Like rough trade 46 Eclectic family mag 10 Start of Caesar’s boast Solution on page 27 www.PrideSource.com Rear View / January 12, 2012 / BTL 29 Cocktail Chatter Dan has been there for me throughout Mary Richards and the whole bad trip, and I’ve been there her can of artichoke The Kir Royale for him, too. (The six months leading to hearts – “just in BY ED SIKOV his promotion to V.P. at CogniTech was case”.) “I hate that practically as traumatic as my PD.) So when swill,” Dan said. Dan and I got married on Saturday. New York granted gay people marriage “There’s no need This news may be surprising, given my equality, we went for it. The scene: the to fear,” I replied. little peccadillo with Jack Fogg and the beach house. The characters: our friends “Underdog is here!’” uproar when my stunned partner – now Gary and Heath, Dan and me. The state We had Creme de husband – found out. But it led to the legislature was taking its time. I checked Cassis, a blackcurrant talk we should have had years ago, a the news just after 11 p.m. liqueur. Undrinkably discussion too personal even for me to “It passed!” I yelled. We toasted with sweet on its own, it’s the write about. Let’s just say that we came to what was left of the dinner wine. Then: perfect solution to bad an understanding, then made up, then out, Me: “We gettin’ married?” mediocre champagne. and finally came in a very different sense Dan: “Yeah.” I grilled the rack of the word. Me: “When?” of lamb, roasted We’re beyond being best friends. My Dan: “December.” some fingerling faults still register with Dan, but there’s a We’re clearly not into the top-of-the- potatoes and trace of a smile on his face when I tell the Empire State Building stuff. sauteed Brussels sprouts in butter. We same jokes I always tell. And I’m proud of So we got married. There were eight drank two bottles of bad bad champagne being married to the world’s greatest klutz. guests, including the judge who married transformed into Kir Royales. The rest of (Life with Dan: bang, crash, “shit!”) We’re us, who happened to be Dan’s father. We the night I’ll leave to your imagination. genuinely intertwined in ways we weren’t got the private dining room of a terrific four years ago, when I…. restaurant in our neighborhood. The The Kir Royale Visit our website! Well, the fact is that I have Parkinson’s ceremony was one minute long. We said we http://www.pridesource.com disease. I haven’t mentioned it before loved each other, and Dan’s father said, “I 1 bottle of bad champagne because it hasn’t been part of any of the now pronounce you married.” Then lunch. Crème de Cassis Add our fan page! We left immediately for the beach, stories I’ve told. It’s no fun, but I live with Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” it, and if you saw me you’d never guess arriving rather late. I brought a rack of Add a few drops of Crème de Cassis lamb to grill, some vegetables and two I had it unless you happened to catch me to each glass, then fill with champagne. Follow us! doing the last three reps of a weightlifting cupcakes. But yechhh: the only champagne Use cheap champagne. Don’t ruin a good @YourBTL set. That’s when I tremor. in the refrigerator was bad not very good. bottle of bubbly by adding anything at all. (We keep some in there all the time – like 30 BTL \ January 12, 2012 \ Rear View www.PrideSource.com

which “Texans have a different view of the world than do the nine oligarchs in robes.” General Gayety Apparently at one time Perry did remember the court case. And the number Perry and Lawrence v. Texas: Oops! of justices on the Supreme Court. Or at least his ghostwriter did. BY LESLIE ROBINSON another sinkhole where knowledge should Maybe he has to learn so much these be, this time concerning a matter of major days - like the name of North Korea’s late Rick Perry importance to the LGBT community. In dictator is Kim Jong-il, not “Kim Jong the jumped into Cedar Rapids, an audience member at a Second” as Perry dubbed him - that facts he the Republican campaign event asked Perry about Lawrence previously knew are falling out of his head presidential race in v. Texas, the 2003 landmark Supreme Court to make room. Anybody standing near him August, and a spate case that struck down the sodomy law in should look out for falling objects. of verbal blunders Texas and nullified such laws across the U.S. Back at the Blue Strawberry coffee followed. The As far as Perry was concerned, he might shop, after being asked about the Lawrence Texas governor is as well have been asked about Ali v. Frazier. case, Perry changed the subject: “We can sit on gaffe-ing gas. “I wish I could tell you I knew every here and, you know, play ‘I gotcha’ questions He flubbed the voting age, the date of Supreme Court case. I don’t. I’m not a on what about this Supreme Court case or the 2012 election, the number of justices on lawyer,” Perry responded, according to whatever, but let me tell you, you know and I the Supreme Court and the name of Justice National Journal. After the event, Perry told know the problem in this country is spending Sotomayor. Perry infamously blustered a reporter he didn’t know what the case was. in Washington, D.C. - it’s not some court case.” during a Republican debate that he would That’s incredible. Lawrence v. Texas Actually we have a number of do away with three cabinet agencies, began shortly before Perry became Texas’s problems in this country. One of them is a then couldn’t remember the third. On lieutenant governor, and the Supreme Texan who believes he should be president that occasion, Gov. Goodhair, as the late Court heard and decided the case while even though his brain shoots blanks. columnist Molly Ivins called the impeccably he was governor. As it happens, John G. Lawrence, one of coiffed Perry, went flat and lifeless. This case began in Texas, affected Texas the two plaintiffs in Lawrence v. Texas, passed Visit our website! Recently Perry explained to Iowans the law and concerned his cherished conservative away in November. I have every confidence http://www.pridesource.com need for the Keystone XI pipeline, saying, social values. It gave us gays the right to that when someone mentioned to Perry that “Every barrel of oil that comes out of those diddle each other with impunity, for heaven’s John Lawrence died, the governor responded, Add our fan page! sands in Canada is a barrel of oil we don’t sake. Yet Perry couldn’t remember it. “Poor Eydie. Now who will she sing with?” Search: “Between The Lines Newspaper” have to buy from a foreign source.” What will he forget next? The Alamo? Leslie Robinson is grateful to John Lawrence I hear a line of beavers has taken up ABC News blogged that in Perry’s for seeing the fight through. Email Leslie at Follow us! a defensive position on the Canadian side 2010 book, “Fed Up! Our Fight to Save [email protected], and visit her blog at @YourBTL of the border. America from Washington,” he referred to Now we can add to Perry’s record Lawrence v. 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