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#MuteRKelly Campaigns Against Detroit Concert

Report: Not Even Half of LGBT People Say Workplace Offers Family Leave

Inside: New Perspectives on Love and Sex plus, Unique Valentine Gifts & Events Burlesque Comes to Menjos in Detroit

WWW.PRIDESOURCE.COM FEBRUARY 8, 2018 | VOL. 2606 | FREE

VALENTINES SPECIAL ISSUE

VALENTINE’S DAY: 16 Be Mine ... You, Too 20 Dancing Harder 21 10 Valentine’s Day Events for Anyone’s Schedule 22 Sugar & Spice: A Sassy V-Day Gift COVER 20 Chris Harder Guide for LGBTQ Friends and Lovers NEWS 23 Queer Non-Binary Artist Graces 4 #MuteRKelly Campaigns Against R. Kelly’s Feb. 21 Cover of WUSSY’s ‘The Sex Issue’ Detroit Concert 5 Community Members to Protest ‘Conversion Therapy’ Workshop Be Mine ... You, Too p. 16 9 SAGE Board of Directors Welcomes Jim Obergefell 12 Marriage Opponent Wins First Round of Costa Rica Presidential Election COMMUNITY CONNECTION ELECTION NEWS HAPPENINGS 12 Report: Not Even Half of LGBT People Say Workplace Offers FMLA 14 RNC Approves Resolution Backing Trump’s Transgender Military Ban 14 Sen. Gillibrand: Defeat Trump in 2020 to Pass Equality Act 15 Speaking with Candidate Robert Van Kirk OPINION 10 Parting Glances 24 Best of LGBT Events 10 Viewpoint VIEWPOINTS 11 Creep of the Week Sen. Gillibrand: Defeat Trump in 2020 to COOL CITIES: FERNDALE 26 Home Sweet Home: A Benefit for the 5 Affirmations and Samaritas Offer Foster Care Ozone House Pass Equality Act p. 14 Clinic 26 Rev. David A. Bullock to Give Black History 5 Ferndale SheHive Offers Women’s Empowerment Month Lecture at LGBT Detroit plus, Meet Candidate Circle 27 Tea and Coffee Week Combats ‘Corporate 24 Happenings Coffee Culture’ Robert Van Kirk p. 15 ‘The #HIVVDayShitList’ p. 10 28 Classifieds

VOL. 2606 • FEBRUARY 8, 2018 EDITORIAL News & Feature Writers ADVERTISING & SALES ONLINE AT ISSUE 1053 Editor in Chief Emell Derra Adolphus, Michelle Brown, Todd Director of Sales A. Heywood, Ellen Knoppow, Jason Michael, Susan Horowitz, 734.293.7200 x 12 Jan Stevenson, 734.293.7200 x 22 “Between The Lines Newspaper” Drew Howard, Jonathan Thurston PRIDE SOURCE MEDIA GROUP [email protected] [email protected] 20222 Farmington Rd., Livonia, Michigan 48152 Entertainment Editor CREATIVE Sales Representatives Phone 734.293.7200 Follow us @YourBTL Chris Azzopardi, 734.293.7200 x 24 Webmaster & MIS Director Ann Cox, 734.293.7200 x 13 Kevin Bryant, [email protected] PUBLISHERS [email protected] [email protected] Email your op–eds to Susan Horowitz & Jan Stevenson Feature News Editor Columnists Donelle Kremke, 734.293.7200 x 16 [email protected] MEMBER OF Kate Opalewski, 734.293.7200 x 10 Charles Alexander, Michelle E. Brown, [email protected] [email protected] Mikey Rox, D’Anne Witkowski, Michigan Press Assoication National Advertising Representative Sign up online to receive our E–Digest Gwendolyn Ann Smith National LGBT Media Association Editorial Assistant Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 National Gay & Lesbian Chamber Eve Kucharski, 734.293.7200 x 10 Cartoonists Q Syndicate [email protected] Paul Berg, Dave Brousseau Our rate cards are available online. All material appearing in Between The Lines is protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publishers. Between The Lines is supported by many fine advertisers, Contributing Photographers but we cannot accept responsibility for claims made by our advertisers, nor can we accept responsibility for materials provided by advertisers or their agents. Andrew Potter, Alexander Godin, Andrew Cohen Copyright 2018 Pride Source Media Group

February 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com | BTL 3 #MuteRKelly Campaigns Against R. Kelly’s Feb. 21 Detroit Concert PROTEST BY EVE KUCHARSKI

Cult leader, rapist and sexual predator. You have to say, ‘I have to sacrifice that I can’t support Whether sensationalized or fully accurate, this person, because I’m putting money into the hands of a having accusations like these swirl around “ one’s career seem like they would destroy it. pedophile or a rapist.’ And, you have to separate that. However, in the case of 51-year-old Rhythm and Blues artist R. Kelly, they barely seem to have made a dent. Born Robert Kelly, in his – Nicole Denson – who is openly bisexual and a survivor of sexual assault and career, the singer has sold over 100 million ” violence herself – said that she aimed to form an proactive community that not albums, won multiple Grammy Awards and even created a well-received autobiography. only advocates for victims of sexual assault generally, but that is purposefully Kelly managed to balance all this success with inclusive of all sexual orientations, gender identities, races and ethnicities. almost a dozen allegations – and one trial – since the 1990s, for illegal and inappropriate assault victims. “We’re very intentional about how we’re sexual conduct with both women and minors. Nicole Denson, an activist and director of going about this,” Denson said. “It’s taking According to Liliana Reyes, a program advocacy services at WC SAFE – a nonprofit time. Right now, we’re reaching out by writing director at the Ferndale-based LGBTQ dedicated to helping victims of sexual assault letters. This is business to them.” community center Affirmations, that R. Kelly – was one of the main drivers in this. However, as serious as Denson is about realized that R. Kelly was scheduled for a has experienced nearly uninterrupted success “The #MeToo movement is everywhere, this topic, she wants to make clear, she’s not sponsored performance by 105.9 Kiss-FM at is deeply linked to society’s perception of sexual harassment is really, really talked about, trying to judge his existing fans, she is trying to Little Caesar’s Arena, alongside singer Charlie celebrities and women. and has been in the forefront in the media. So, educate them on the seriousness of this topic. Wilson. The show is on Feb. 21 as part of the “Sometimes, people put public figures on a as a person who is in a marginalized community “His sexual assault against a minor was “Tale of Two Kings Tour”. The movement’s pedestal,” Reyes said. and serves marginalized communities, it really videotaped. You have to understand that some aim is to cancel this show, or at least hold a Reyes is also a supporter of the #MuteRKelly hit home for me that he is in our city,” Denson of these allegations were not just allegations. protest event alongside it. This is all in an Detroit movement. The movement officially said. “And so, I started on Facebook, a call to Not only were they videotaped, but they settled effort to make a statement supporting sexual formed in December 2017, when its founders action, and quite a few people responded. This out of court. So, you have to wonder, when he’s call to action was met by a lot of women of ‘stepping in the name of love,’ who’s love is he Michigan’s Definitive LGBTQ-Friendly color, and a lot of women of color who also talking about? When you see these songs about identify within the LGBT community - which sexual gratification, who is he talking about?” Wedding and Anniversary Guide I’m a part of.” Denson said. “A lot of people say, ‘Well, it’s Denson – who is openly bisexual and mostly black women who are supporting him,’ a survivor of sexual assault and violence and I have to say to them, ‘That may be true, herself – said that she aimed to form an but this one isn’t.’” MiLGBTWedding.com proactive community that not only advocates Denson said that R. Kelly’s accusations for victims of sexual assault generally, but have caused a rift with an impact similar to that is purposefully inclusive of all sexual Bill Cosby’s. orientations, gender identities, races and “It’s OK. That’s the thing we’re trying to ethnicities. get across to people. It’s OK to be upset. It’s “I think a lot of people are afraid to talk OK to say that R. Kelly made a good song. about this issue. I believe it’s really hard in our It’s OK to be mad that you sang ‘I Believe I 2018 EXPO communities because of the fact that, because Can Fly’ in grade school,” Denson said with of my intersections, it’s hard to understand a laugh. “It’s OK to be mad about that, or that what community speaks about my issues,” I watched ‘The Cosby Show’ and I’m mad March 11 Denson said. “When I stand behind Black because he was Cliff Huxtable.” Lives Matter, I sometimes feel as if they might However, Denson said that once the anger (See Back Cover) not talk about that trans women’s lives matter, subsides, it becomes time to choose a side. or when I talk about or stand behind the LGBT “You have to say, ‘I have to sacrifice that (community), sometimes I feel like they don’t I can’t support this person, because I’m talk about the marginalized.” putting money into the hands of a pedophile Shortly after putting out her call to action, or a rapist.’ And, you have to separate that,” she made contact with Kenyette Barnes, she said. the organizer of the national #MuteRKelly Representatives for Little Caesar’s Arena, A PROJECT OF movement, which had a hand in cancelling 105.9 Kiss-FM and R. Kelly did not respond several shows from the singer’s most recent in time for the publication of this story. tour. This contact helped to structure the The Mute R Kelly Detroit: Protest LCA Your Rape Detroit branch’s organization. On its Facebook page, it outlines an eight-step process to both Culture is Not Welcome Here event will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 21 at 6:30 p.m. in front of To learn more contact [email protected] draw attention to sexual assault, and remove Kelly’s scheduled performance. Denson Little Caesar’s Arena. The Arena is located at 2645 Call 734-293-7200 ext. 22 said a structured, and measured approach is Woodward Ave., Detroit. More information about absolutely vital to gain support and be heard. the event can be found online at gaybe.am/6A.

4 BTL | February 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Community Members to Protest ‘Conversion Therapy’ Workshop BY DREW HOWARD was flooded with disapproving comments. MDPAN wrote: “This is a hate group. It’s Members of the community will hold archaic and oppressive so we will show them a peaceful protest outside the Metro City that love is love. The protest is to be peaceful, Church Riverview Campus during the hours inspiring and encouraging to the children of what many are calling a conversion therapy forced to have these workshops. Protestors are workshop. encouraged to share their stories to the crowd.” In a Facebook post that’s since been taken Metro City Church’s head pastor Jeremy down, Metro City Church advertised an Schossau has been contacted by BTL for “Unashamed Identity Workshop” for girls comment. He did tell Fox 2 Detroit that (by birth) ages 12-16 who are struggling with “There’s a lot of brokenness that leads to the thoughts that they are “Trans – Bi – Gay these major sexual decisions in life and we or other.” The classes are scheduled to take want to engage those. We do believe God place every Thursday at 6 p.m. from Feb. has a direction for man, that he created men 8 – April 18. and women to love the opposite sex and to The post sparked widespread backlash and marry, and stay in a monogamous, lasting a flurry of comments denouncing the church relationship. I understand the world has all as anti-LGBTQ. The Metro-Detroit Political kinds of other views, but that’s what we Action Network announced that it will be believe. We are sexually traditionally-minded holding the protest at the church on Feb. 8 at Christians.” 6 p.m. – the night of the first class. The organizers ask that protesters park on MDPAN’s Facebook page said, “We have side streets and be respectful in their actions. had people sending multiple screenshots Protesters are encouraged to carry posters stating that this pastor did indeed call these advertising “state resources, pride, and/or sessions conversion therapy.” empowerment messages.” Conversion therapy is the pseudoscientific The Metro City Church Riverdale Campus is practice of trying to change an individual’s sexual orientation using psychological or located at 17760 Fort Street in Riverview. Visit the spiritual interventions, and is opposed by group’s Facebook event page for more information several psychological experts. at gaybe.am/qH. The post, which has since been taken down, Affirmations and Samaritas Offer Foster Care Clinic A 2017 report released by the Michigan State partnering with Samaritas, Michigan’s largest Housing Development Authority estimated non-profit organization dedicated to serving that almost 66,500 people were homeless children and families. in Michigan from 2014. Although that’s an Interested families and people are invited improvement of 9 percent since 2014, there to the free event, which has a suggested $5 is still much work to be done. Of that number donation. The event will be on Feb. 28, from of homeless people, 13,812 were children in 6 to 8 p.m. and will be held at Affirmations families, and 660 were unaccompanied minors LGBTQ Community Center at 290 W. 9 Mile under 18. Road, Ferndale. In order to combat this number and maintain More information can be found online at gaybe. the current positive trend, Affirmations is am/fo. Ferndale SheHive Offers Women’s Empowerment Circle

After graduating Detroit’s Center for norms and competitive dynamics will be Humanistic Studies in 2004, Dr. Corinne questions and positive, powerful beliefs will Rogers has been working as a psychologist to be presented.” The group’s aim is for women to help individuals combat anxiety, compulsive connect with each other and therefore become overeating and a variety of other dilemmas. stronger friends, partners, mothers, daughters, Although Rogers can usually be found in employees and community members. Pleasant Ridge and Clarkston, she is offering The group is a multi-month commitment. a therapy group at the Ferndale SheHive. “... as well as provide an opportunity for The next Women’s Empowerment Circle will be like-minded women to meet and connect. Women will learn how to claim and own their held on Monday, Feb. 12 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The power and will share successes and support SheHive is located at 2505 Hilton Road, Suite #107, each other,” said the event description. Ferndale. More information about the event can The session shall last 90 minutes, during be found by going to theshehive.com, or by visiting which the “oppressive standards, spiritual gaybe.am/fU. www.PrideSource.com February 8, 2018 | BTL 5

Jim Obergefell, center, speaks to members of the media as he joins the Human Rights Campaign to deliver what they say are 207,551 copies of the “People’s Brief” that calls for full nationwide marriage equality, to the U.S. Supreme Court on Friday, March 6, 2015 in Washington. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik) SAGE Board of Directors Welcomes Jim Obergefell

BY BTL STAFF with the state of Ohio in 2013, demanding recognition of their lawful marriage – they NEW YORK – SAGE, the nation’s largest had wed in Maryland – on Arthur’s impending and oldest organization dedicated to improving death certificate. Arthur died of ALS three the lives of LGBT elders, announced Jan. months after their first court hearing, and 5 that Jim Obergefell is joining its Board of Obergefell continued their fight all the way to Directors. Obergefell is the named plaintiff in the Supreme Court. the landmark Supreme Court case Obergefell After careers in teaching, training, IT v. Hodges that brought marriage equality to consulting and real estate, Obergefell is now a the U.S. in 2015. fulltime LGBT activist, speaker and author, as “We are deeply honored to add Jim’s well as an entrepreneur. He is the co-founder expertise and energy to our board,” said of Equality Vines, the first cause-based wine Michael Adams, SAGE’s CEO. “Having label, which supports organizations devoted to accompanied Jim and our beloved friend civil rights and equality. Edie Windsor on a groundbreaking journey He also co-wrote the book “Love Wins”” toward marriage equality, we continue to be with Debbie Cenziper, a Pulitzer Prize-winning awed by Jim’s unwavering commitment and journalist with the Washington Post. The book, outspoken voice in support of the entire LGBT published by William Morrow/Harper Collins, community.” shares the stories of the lovers and lawyers who Elizabeth F. Schwartz, SAGE board co- participated in the historic Supreme Court case. chair, added to Adams’ statement. Temple Hill Productions/Fox 2000 Pictures “The LGBT movement has achieved great bought the movie rights for the book and will change by telling our stories. Jim Obergefell produce a feature film based on it. shared the painful passing of his husband, In addition to his SAGE Board of Directors and his fight to be recognized as a spouse role, Obergefell is a member of the National brought us marriage equality. Jim’s decision to Advisory Board for the GLBT Historical bring his big heart and sharp mind to SAGE’s Society and the Board of Advisors for the board speaks volumes about his continuing Mattachine Society of Washington, D.C. work toward equality for our most vulnerable Since the Supreme Court ruling, Obergefell, community.” who resides in Washington, D.C., has been Obergefell said that he is thrilled to accept honored with awards from organizations such the position. as Equality Florida, Equality North Carolina, “I’m excited to serve on the board of an the ACLU of Southern California and more. organization that does so much to help those Foreign Policy magazine named Obergefell who paved the way for younger LGBTQ one of its 2015 Global Thinkers, and Out generations. Our elders’ courage and sacrifices magazine named him to its 2015 Out 100 list. helped create a more supportive and welcoming SAGE was founded in 1978. SAGE Metro is a local world for us, and SAGE fights to ensure that they are able to enjoy the same. It’s an honor division of the organization, and can be found to work with SAGE on their behalf.” at 290 W. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. The can be Obergefell and husband John Arthur reached online at sagemetrodetroit.org, or by phone launched their marriage equality legal battle at 734-681-0854.

www.PrideSource.com February 8, 2018 | BTL 9 When Life Went Gay On Us Parting Glances OPINION BY CHARLES ALEXANDER

or over 50 years, Life magazine informed Americans about current events both in the U.S. and abroad. Photos and Fcontent were dramatic – mostly conservative, occasionally controversial and, sometimes, downright shocking. Life folded in 1973. Circulation was clocked at 13 million. Readership, 10 times that amount. Its sister publication, Time, marches on to this day. Five years before the Stonewall Riots of 1969, Life tackled a scary taboo: “Homosexualities in America.” An expose focusing on the gay underworld. New York! Chicago! San Francisco! America’s collective Sodom and Gomorrahs. (Detroit’s gay scene in the ‘60s included – in walking distance of City Hall and the 1st Precinct Police Headquarters – The 1011, La Rosa’s, Silver Dollar, Foster’s and Palais Bar – a lesbian hangout.) Naive Middle Americans woke up to the realization that homos were growing in number, becoming alarmingly visible and a social threat to be somehow remedied.

Naive Middle Americans woke up to the realization that homos were growing in number, becoming alarmingly visible and a social threat to be somehow remedied.

In 1964, San Francisco was not the dynamic gay center of Castro/ Positive Thoughts Market Street, clone-look militancy. It hadn’t the high-density population complex of the 1970s and pre-AIDS 1980s; but Life’s wide-audience article – unintentionally, to be sure – served as a catalyst for early gay migration there. (And rent was cheaper then.) Life opened its scare head on: “Homosexuality shears across the spectrum of American life: the professional, the arts, business and BY JOSH ROBBINS labor. It always has. But today, especially in big cities, homosexuals are discarding their furtive ways and openly admitting, even The Lovely ‘The #HIVVDayShitList’ flaunting, their deviation. OVE. in our own melodrama. “Homosexuals have their own drinking places, their special It’s a word I’ve been tossing around my entire I am living with HIV. It’s not the same tough road that assignation streets, even their own organizations. And for every Llife. I’ve said it to my parents, mostly to my mom. those before me experienced but it’s not stigma free yet obvious homosexual, there are probably nine nearly impossible I’ve used it to describe my feeling towards a music artist. either. And I’m jaded at times about being single and to detect. I say it to friends and I use it at times sarcastically to show living with HIV. “This social disorder, which society tries to suppress, has forced dissatisfaction with something someone says: I love when It literally blows, at times. itself into the public eye because it does present a problem – and you are so passive aggressive. This year, instead of listing the top articles, news stories, parents especially are concerned. It’s what I feel I’m trying to find on dating apps, or hearing incredibly powerful and moving love stories, “The myth and misconception with which homosexuality has although it never happens. It’s a verb and a noun. It’s an let’s get our jaded, tired and single selves on and share so long been clothed must be cleared away, not to condone it but action, a state of being, and a commandment. I listen to the realities of living with HIV right now as described by to cope with it.” sermons about love at church; I see it unfold on reality a some advocates in HIV awareness. Accompanying the 14-page belly shock are a dozen photos. television; and leading up to Valentine’s Day, I watch Here’s what we do not love about living with HIV. This Nameless gay men clustered in dark bars or milling about on dimly a stream of commercials that pitch their product as the is the #HIVVDayShitList just in time for the big lovely lighted streets. perfect mechanism to show a love interest the value and couple’s day. “These brawny young men in their leather caps, shirts, jackets depth of it. This is perfect. I love you. and pants are practicing homosexuals, men who turn to other men Well, shit. “The #HIVVDayShitList” for affection and sexual satisfaction,” it read. “They are part of I either missed the rally for hearts and red roses, music “Shitty ... dealing with pharmacies and mail order what they call the ‘gay world,’ which is actually a sad and often crescendos and watching Titanic reruns or I am just not services that are inefficient and unequipped to handle sordid world.” feeling the love these days. And no, I do not want your multiple meds and auto-renewals. And that’s IF you have Gay bars are exposed: “As each new customer walks into the little V-day cards. They are pointless. I mean really. good insurance. The bureaucracy involved for those who dimly lit room, he will lock eyes with a half dozen young men Here’s a jaded, but incredibly honest fact: Not are non- or under-insured is even worse.” before reaching his place at the bar. Throughout the evening there everybody feels tingly and warm on Valentine’s Day. And - Mark S. King is a constant turnover of customers as contacts are made and two I don’t really care about all the successful relationships out there. Sometimes, we all just need to vent a bit about See next page where we are in life, what we are going through, and star See next page 10 BTL | February 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com ® Positive Thoughtst: Well, look at Alex sharing this shit! It was Continued from p. 8 supposed to be a list of downers – here he IS bragging! So what’s mine? YES, that’s pretty shitty! It’s always been the worst part of living Doug Mainwaring BY D’ANNE WITKOWSKI with HIV to me – diarrhea! As a gay man, that “Having to explain to people that it’s not the shit (no pun intended) used to stop me from LAAD’s 2018 Accelerating “And what will happen when ‘80s or ‘90s, it’s not a death sentence and that having sex. And I’m not alone in this. Others Acceptance report is out and the having HIV isn’t shameful or dirty.” living with HIV share this with me. I know, results are a bit disappointing. For Main Street folks realize that - Charles Sanchez because I talk a lot about diarrhea. G four years, GLAAD has commissioned According to a recent survey of people living a survey of gays, always portrayed as I hate the word: dirty! It’s just shit! with HIV, 27 percent currently have diarrhea, American exceedingly fun, funny, and cool while 56 percent have had diarrhea in the past acceptance “Trying to date and always having to make and 61 percent of those with diarrhea reported and attitudes on TV and in movies, are really sure I’ve packed enough pills when I travel having it for more than five years. And, toward mean bullies out to destroy in case there’s an unexpected extended stay 30 percent of those currently experiencing LBGTQ to where ever I’m going.” diarrhea said they never discussed diarrhea Americans, your life and livelihood if you - Brady Morris with their doctor and/or reported feeling that seeing annual the doctor dismissed or “blew off” their issue gains. For refuse to bake them a cake?” I thought I was the only person who never with diarrhea. the first time, packed enough pills. Shit! I say! But, luckily for me, I decided to talk to support is my medical team (yes, my team – from the DOUG MAINWARING when Obama was sworn in. That must be shrinking. why I, a writer of a weekly column about “Hardest thing to me about the virus: receptionist to the physician and the lab techs It’s not all doom and gloom, mind you. survivor’s guilt. Living in a modernized time ... even the valet at the doctor’s office, are all a LGBTQ foes, was only able to publish The report concludes with assurances 417 or so columns between Jan. 20, 2009 from the start of the epidemic and people are part of my medical team) about the only FDA that “supporting equal rights for LGBTQ still dying because of stigma. They could still approved treatment available for people living and Jan. 20, 2017. Must have been nothing people remains stable and strong with non- whatsoever to write about. be here and it’s hard to miss them, do the work, with HIV that experience diarrhea – Mytesi. LGBTQ adults” putting that support at 79 and honor them without being angry.” And I LOVE being able to honestly say: it “Now in the age of Trump, when political percent, which is way higher than Trump’s correctness is losing its stranglehold on - Kamaria Laffrey worked for me, just like the data in the trials approval rating. proved. America, people are beginning to again feel With Trump as president anti-LGBTQ free to assert their strongly-held personal Guilt is completely the worst! Totally agree So, what about you? What would make sentiment has risen. He’s stoked it here. your lovely “Shit List” this Valentine’s Day? beliefs,” Mainwaring wrote. personally, after all, and Mike Pence is And that’s true. Shitty people feel much one of the biggest homophobes to ever “The frequency with which I get HPV and freer to be openly shitty now that we’ve Josh Robbins is a GLAAD Award-nominated hold office. The anti-LGBTQ Trump elevated a person who represents the worst how painful it is to get rid of.” administration officials and judges he’s - Sean McKenna, long-term survivor blogger for imstilljosh.com and an HIV positive of America to the highest office in the land. patient advocate. He is a paid consultant for Napo nominated are too numerous to name. Mainwaring is especially concerned that Right-wing bigots are fawning over the Pharmaceuticals, Inc., makers of Mytesi. He lives in the average person tends to over estimate I hear that shit burns. Ouch! fact that the president is normalizing Nashville and is single and ready to mingle. Follow the number of gays and lesbians in the U.S., their demonization of LGBTQ people. attributing the misperception to some kind “It used to be not being able to have sex him @imstilljosh Transgender people have been trashed with hot HIV-negative guys but thankfully, of liberal brainwashing. especially viciously. “What will Main Street America do undetectable and PrEP has changed that.” So, I’m not shocked that overall support - Alex Garner when it finally sinks in that it has been has fallen. We’ve got the most powerful propagandized, and that instead of one out people in the country supporting anti- of four of their neighbors being gay, less LGBTQ policies and people. That’s gonna than two out of 100 are?” he asked. have an impact on acceptance. Uh, still treat them like human beings? homosexuality. The services’ position has But to hear Doug Mainwaring of ® Parting Glances Because last time I checked, civil to be that homosexual practices prejudice LifeSiteNews tell it, the GLAAD report rights wasn’t a numbers game. It’s as if Continued from p. 8 morale and discipline.” proves that people are finally feeling free Mainwaring thinks that the 79 percent of Life warns, “For the first time the Supreme to say Merry Christmas God hates fags Americans who approve of equality only Court has agreed to hear the homosexual case, again after eight years of Obama’s political did so because they were afraid some huge men slip out together, or individuals move on correctness goons forcing America to to other bars in search of better luck. but no legal procedures are likely to change gay army was going to come for them society’s basic repugnance to homosexuality pledge allegiance to the gays. otherwise. “As closing time – 2 a.m. – approaches, the “The normalization of homosexuality, atmosphere grows perceptibly more tense. It as an immoral and disruptive force that should “And what will happen when Main somehow be removed.” same-sex marriages and now Street folks realize that gays, always is the ‘frantic hour,’ the now-or-never time for transgenderism always relied on the power making a contact.” (Sound familiar?) Somehow removed? (Was AIDS one portrayed as exceedingly fun, funny, and possibly?) GOP political quarantine? (Another, of political correctness to manufacture cool on TV and in movies,” he continued, Here’s the early version of the gay agenda: consent at unreal, unsustainable levels,” “As part of its anti-homosexual drive the in process?) LGBTQ afterthoughts, anyone? “are really mean bullies out to destroy your Please share on Facebook, or Grindr. wrote Mainwaring in a Feb. 5 blog post. life and livelihood if you refuse to bake Los Angeles police force has compiled an “It is a mirage ... created not by the hearty ‘educational’ pamphlet for law enforcement them a cake?” endorsement of this country’s majority, but Well, they’ll lash out at Ellen DeGeneres, officers entitled, ‘Some Characteristics of the Charles Alexander is prolific both as a BTL by its silence. In the age of Obama, political I guess, and demand she do her funny little Homosexual.’ columnist (700-plus columns) and as a well- correctness beared its sharp teeth, silencing The strongly opinionated pamphlet includes dance while the flames of Hell lick her known LGBT community artist (1000 Face all who held opinions in opposition to any Hush Puppied heels. the warning that what the homosexuals really Book images). He is a Spirit of Detroit Award and every part of LGBT ideology.” want is a ‘fruit world.’” (Not a cocktail.) And, I’d bet her ratings would still be recipient and an Affirmations LGBT CENTER Jan Ah, yes. The complete and total silence higher than Trump’s. Gays in the military, 1964: “If we of LGBTQ foes that fell upon the land didn’t throw them out, we’d be condoning Stevenson awardee. Connect with him at Charles@ pridesource.com. www.PrideSource.com February 8, 2018 | BTL 11 NEWS

A Pentecostal minister who is a vocal opponent of marriage rights for same-sex couples has won the first round of Costa Rica’s presidential election. (Washington Blade photo by Michael K. Lavers) Marriage Opponent Wins First Round of Costa Rica Presidential Election

BY MICHAEL K. LAVERS

A vocal opponent of marriage rights for same-sex couples has won the first round of Costa Rica’s presidential election. A report from HRC has found fewer than half of LGBT people say they have access to FMLA benefits. Photo courtesy of Washington Blade by Michael Key. The New York Times reported Fabricio Alvarado of the National Restoration Party received nearly 25 percent of the vote on Sunday. Alvarado, a Pentecostal minister and Report: Not Even Half of LGBT People Say singer who is a former journalist, will face off against Carlos Alvarado of the leftist Citizen’s Action Party in the second round that will take place on April 1. Workplace Offers FMLA Fabricio Alvarado and Carlos Alvarado will face off against each other because BY CHRIS JOHNSON married same-sex couples have access because neither of them received at least 40 percent to benefits under the Family & Medical of their of the vote on Sunday. ewer than 50 percent of LGBT people Leave Act after the U.S. Supreme LGBTQ Sunday’s election took place less than say they have access in their workplace Court in 2013 struck down the anti- identities a month after the Inter-American Court of Fto benefits under the Family & Medical gay Defense of Marriage Act, which – a critical Human Rights issued a landmark ruling Leave Act, according to a new report by the barred federal recognition of same-sex caretaking that recognized same-sex marriage and Human Rights Campaign Foundation. marriage. Texas Attorney General Ken role often transgender rights. The findings came about as the result of the Paxton sought to block those benefits to excluded Costa Rican Vice President Ana Helena organization’s 2018 U.S. LGBTQ Paid Leave gay couples in states without marriage from leave Chacón on Jan. 9 announced her country’s Survey. The survey, completed by more than equality and succeeded in trial court, policies. government will comply with the ruling. The 5,400 LGBTQ people from across the nation, but that ruling was overturned by President New York Times reported Fabricio Alvarado found only 45 percent of respondents say their the 2015 Supreme Court decision for Trump has defeated 12 other candidates in the first employer extends leave policies – paid or marriage equality nationwide. proposed round because he made his opposition to the unpaid – that include LGBT people. Among the key findings the Human instituting decision a centerpiece of his campaign. Mary Beth Maxwell, the Human Rights Rights Campaign pulled from its paid family Margarita Salas, a Costa Rican LGBT Campaign’s senior vice president for programs, survey: leave by rights advocate who is a candidate for the research and training, said the report should Fewer than half of respondents report that extending unemployment insurance benefits country’s National Assembly, on Monday serve as a wakeup call. their employer’s policies cover new parents of to working parents whose employers do not described the election results as “a very “No one should have to choose between who all genders equally; offer paid maternity leave. But the plan – a difficult scenario.” they are, the people they love and the job they Only 49 percent say that employer policies pet cause of Ivanka Trump – faces an uphill “The country’s anti-rights forces came need,” Maxwell said. “As the only developed are equally inclusive of the many ways battle in the Republican Congress, and critics together,” she told the Washington Blade. nation in the world without some form of families can welcome a child, including contend unemployment checks under Trump’s “These results are undoubtedly a blow to the guaranteed paid leave policy, American childbirth, adoption, or foster care; plan are skimpy and won’t provide sufficient advance of human rights.” workers, including LGBTQ employees, are One in five respondents report that they compensation. Costa Rica is a predominantly Roman too often forced to either forgo their income would be afraid to request time off to care Another finding in the report: 92 percent Catholic country that borders Nicaragua or leave their job entirely to treat an illness, for a loved one because it might disclose of LGBT respondents in the survey say the and Panama, but more of its residents care for a loved one, or grow their family.” their LGBTQ identity, illustrating the need United States should guarantee paid leave have become evangelical Christians in The report comes on the 25th anniversary for explicit federal LGBTQ-inclusive non- to all Americans, and another 92 percent say recent years. Chacón acknowledged to the of the Family & Medical Leave Act, a federal discrimination protections; access to paid leave would positively affect Washington Blade last November during an law signed by President Bill Clinton affording And 48 percent of respondents, reflecting their lives. employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job- the prevalence of family rejection within the interview in the Costa Rican capital of San This article originally appeared in the Washington José that anti-LGBT attitudes remain a “big protected leave per year for family and medical LGBTQ community, indicated that they feel reasons. an increased responsibility to care for loved Blade and is made available in partnership with challenge” in the country, in spite of her the National LGBT Media Association. government’s efforts to combat them. The Labor Department first established ones whose own families have rejected them

12 BTL | February 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com February 8, 2018 | BTL 13 NEWS RNC Approves Resolution Backing Sen. Gillibrand: Defeat Trump Trump’s Transgender Military Ban in 2020 to Pass Equality Act BY CHRIS JOHNSON groups, Trump’s transgender ban was BY CHRIS JOHNSON put on hold. he Republican National Nonetheless, the Pentagon is still en. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) Committee has approved a expected to produce a report for Trump called Saturday night for the Tresolution in favor of President on transgender military service. As defeat of President Trump Trump’s effort to ban transgender outlined in Trump’s directive, a panel S in Election 2020 and a change of people from the U.S. military, according will present recommendations by the Congress to enact long-sought after to the Associated Press. end of February to Defense Secretary federal non-discrimination protections The RNC approved the resolution James Mattis, who will then advise for LGBT people. Friday at its annual winter meeting, Trump for new policy on March 23. Gillibrand, a possible Democratic which this year is taking place in West LGBT groups harangued the RNC contender in 2020, made the remarks Virginia. Trump delivered remarks at for approving a resolution, calling it an Saturday at the 2018 HRC Greater the event this week before departing for attack on members of the U.S. armed New York Gala, encouraging attendees Mar-a-Lago for the weekend. forces. to join efforts to make change in the According to the Associated Press, the Mara Keisling, executive director for mid-term election and the presidential RNC voted to support Trump’s directive the National Center for Transgender election in 2020. instructing the military to consider Equality, said in a statement the only “We know this president will never Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) (Image courtesy of YouTube) being transgender “a disqualifying disruption the military endured as sign the Equality Act to ensure the psychological and physical” condition. a result of transgender people was civil rights of LGBTQ Americans,” speech wasn’t just limited to LGBT rights The resolution reportedly says the Trump’s attempt to remove them. Gillibrand said. “He has neither the decency, nor With pending a March 8 deadline to come to a RNC supports Trump’s “intent and “The fact is that we’ve shown, both the empathy to do so. But even with him in the solution before DREAMers may be deported from prerogative to strengthen our military through studies and experience, that Oval Office, we can make progress, because with the United States, Gillibrand pointed out estimated with sound personnel policies,” but also open service by transgender troops is a Democratic in the House and the Senate, we can 75,000 are LGBT and said “they face being sent urges the Justice Department to seek good for the military,” Keisling said. the momentum that we need for a new president to back to countries with no protections for them, and U.S. Supreme Court action. “We look forward to the courts settling sign that bipartisan bill in 2020.” President Trump and congressional Republicans are According to the AP, it’s a common this once and for all so that transgender The Equality Act, legislation introduced by Rep. not doing nearly enough to stop it.” practice for the RNC to pass resolutions troops can focus on protecting our David Cicilline (D-R.I.) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), At one point, Gillibrand became audibly emotional supporting the president’s policy, country without having to worry about would amend the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to when she recalled the story of a transgender kid who especially what that policy is challenged their job security every day.” prohibit anti-LGBT discrimination in employment, goes to the same school as her son and found the in court. There was no public debate on Sarah Kate Ellis, CEO of GLAAD, housing, public accommodations, education, credit, support of his classmates. the measure during the RNC’s general said in a statement the RNC’s approval jury service and federal funding. “I watched a young men build his courage over session Friday, the AP reported. of the resolution demonstrates the In a 2000 interview with The Advocate, Trump many years – first with blue hair, then a short hair Lucas Acosta, director of LGBTQ impact of Trump’s anti-LGBT policy. said he supports amending the Civil Rights Act cut and, finally, a new name – to stand before his media for the Democratic National “President Trump’s bigoted proposal to include sexual orientation, but he has never school at graduation and to find his present and his Committee, said approval of the to purge qualified military personnel is addressed the issue during his 2016 campaign or as future on his own terms,” Gillibrand said. “I couldn’t resolution was par for the course for in direct contradiction to the will of the president, nor has he ever said whether he backs the have been prouder even if he was my own son.” Republicans and the Trump White American people and what’s best for addition of transgender protections in federal law. But Gillibrand’s tone quickly changed when she House. our nation’s security,” Ellis said. “The The erosion of LGBT rights during the first year of juxtaposed that story with the Trump’s attempt to “Over the last month alone, the fact that the RNC is siding with blatant his administration suggest Trump no longer holds ban transgender people from the U.S. military. Trump-Pence administration has discrimination over supporting the the position he expressed in 2000. “When President Trump looks at our transgender rolled back significant protections rights of brave Americans to serve our Gillibrand also talked about her efforts in the troops as valueless and when his party tries to for the LGBTQ community, ripped nation displays how toxic and deeply 2010 repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” calling it “a demonize this boy and every other like him, this apart families and allowed health rooted the Trump Administration’s anti- landmark moment for LGBT rights in this nation” arrogance and bigotry will provoke a fury in me care workers to discriminate access to LGBTQ ideology has become.” and “one of the proudest moments of my career.” that will not subside,” Gillibrand said. medical care,” Acosta said. “Today, the Ashley Braodway-Mack, president “That experience was a turning point, too, because Referencing legislation she introduced with RNC decided to go even further and of the American Military Partner it taught me a fundamental lesson that I will never Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) against Trump’s ban, pass a hateful resolution, which only Association, gave no quarter in her forget,” Gillibrand told attendees. “Washington only Gillibrand said not until the bill is passed “will we serves to subvert and further demean assessment of the RNC resolution. acts when courageous people, people like all of you stop fighting to protect these transgender troops.” hardworking men and women who “Shame on the Republican National in this room stand up and demand it.” “So we have come far, but everyone in this room want to serve their country in the most Committee for slandering the brave Gillibrand attributed the success of the LGBT knows we are at the start of a journey towards honorable way they can.” transgender men and women who serve movement not to politicians, but activists on the making America a fair and more equal place for After Trump first announced our nation,” Broadway-Mack said. “Not ground, at one point referencing in particular the LGBTQ Americans, and it will not be easy, so brace via Twitter in June he would ban only did the RNC just degrade active president of the Human Rights Campaign. yourselves for the battle ahead,” Gillibrand said. transgender people from the military “in duty service members, but they also “Even if I am the one on the stage tonight, I want Also speaking at the 2018 HRC Greater New any capacity,” he followed that up with maligned countless military families to remind all of you that the fight we have on our York Gala were New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo and a directive to the Pentagon barring them across the country with family members hands is only won because of the Chad Griffins Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.). from service or enlistment and denying who also happen to be transgender. This and the Scott Campbells of this world and all of the payment for troops who need gender is a disgusting, vile attempt to play people who here tonight who are determined to their This article originally appeared in the Washington Blade reassignment surgery. politics with the lives of our military faces heard,” Gillibrand said. and is made available in partnership with the National But as a result of multiple court families.” As Trump’s policies continue to have impact LGBT Media Association. orders following litigation from LGBT on minority groups across the board, Gillibrand’s 14 BTL | February 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Speaking with Candidate Robert Van Kirk BY JONATHAN W. THURSTON gorgeous, and they said, ‘The cost will be whatever the market will bear.’” “A better Michigan starts with you.” That’s However, Van Kirk also wants to fight that the campaign slogan for Robert Van Kirk, kind of systematic bullying at the state level, who is running for 77th State House District working on budget adjustment and fixing currently held by Republican Rep. Tommy college affordability. Brann. A major part of his platform is standing “The state has shirked its responsibility to up to oppression in any form and balance provide affordable education,” Van Kirk said. the scales. Much of his recent years have “The arc of my story is I get really pissed even included anti-bullying workshops and when someone big and powerful picks on and talks about what the residents can do to stop screws with someone less powerful. I’ve seen bullying in their areas. it in my working career as a However, much of this manager in retail, and I’ve mentality and drive to seen it in my education, my protect “the little guy” grad work, my undergrad, started when Van Kirk and my high school.” was in high school. “I Regarding more national was very active when affairs, Van Kirk is hopeful I was very young,” for the future of LGBT Van Kirk said, “both in representation. “We saw the politics and in helping first trans person elected to my community.” the state legislature in the That’s when he history of the U.S. It’s a big focused on LGBT policy change. She beat a activism, founding a conservative incumbent. prom in Michigan for Not only was the first trans high school students person elected, but they beat regardless of sexual a Republican incumbent orientation and gender Robert Van Kirk who fought against her right identity. It was held to survive.” at the Grand Ledge Opera House, and he But Van Kirk believes that victory was due managed to raise over $10,000 dollars for it, to dealing with “bread-and-butter issues,” like joining together several LGBT alliances over traffic concerns and infrastructure. the project. “By focusing on the issues people need “What was rewarding for me was seeing to survive, sometimes you end up winning,” people who normally couldn’t go to the prom Van Kirk said. have this experience with their significant Regarding ways to help, Van Kirk promotes other or as their gender identity. People were awareness. Being vocal about issues you care coming up from Indiana even to attend this about can even shape the actions of larger prom,” he said. “This was really moving.” institutions. At Michigan State University, Van Kirk “A big thing is I’m not getting - and participated heavily in student government. candidates like me are not getting - a lot of One major issue he combatted was when money from the traditional institutions of the university tried to distribute funding for the Democratic party. The party is providing events off campus, even at the risk of many their thoughts and prayers. That’s all they’re diversity organizations. Still, he worked to offering. The state house PACs aren’t going found an LGBT ministry on campus, now an to give any money. They’re going to focus acumenical Christian ministry. on areas that are more democratic. A big part “In grad school,” Van Kirk said, “I became of our campaign is small-dollar fundraiser,” part of the Council of Grad Students. The Van Kirk said. “Give to candidates like that, university was stressing we’d have to raise grassroots people running for office because the cost of the health care, and we had the wheels of the political system are not some issues with that, so we had to fight it. turning for us.” The exec board all wanted jobs in college And building off that, Van Kirk encourages administration, so they were very compliant people to vote for the everyday citizen if with the university’s demands. So in the next they’re tired of politics. election, we voted them all out so we had “Another thing they can do is host house people representing students. This was the parties. Another thing is helping us to first student government that entirely went doorknock and actually campaign events,” against the demands of the college,” Van Kirk Van Kirk said. “You can attend phone banking said. “The university was taking advantage of events. It is your government.” grad students continuously. There were points where it was so blatant and flagrant. They To support Van Kirk’s campaign, visit crowdpac. eventually sent a representative to explain why they were taking down graduate housing com/campaigns/297252/robert-van-kirk. Follow on campus, sharing how wonderful the new him on Facebook at facebook.com/robert.Van places would be, how the grounds will be Kirk.gov/. www.PrideSource.com February 8, 2018 | BTL 15 Rachael Feher

Do you have any advice for someone approaching a polyamorous relationship for the first time? Communication, patience and more communication. I would tell them to make sure that their foundation is secure before venturing out to add more partners. I would tell them to think of their wants and needs and expectations (and have their partner do it too) and then come together to talk about all of that. Something as simple as a difference in definition, can cause a lot of turmoil and misunderstandings. I would tell someone to be honest with themselves. To be selfish and think of themselves. Going along with their partners wants of an open relationship will do no one any favors. How do you make time for more than one relationship? An honest evaluation of your time and resources. I am happy and Nicole MacRae, Doug MacRae, Dana Chase, Phil Chase and Rachael Feher. BTL Photos: Andrew Cohen. content with where I’m at in terms of relationships, but that doesn’t mean that I don’t have time I could be giving to someone else. I am very choosy about who I give that time to. Communication does wonders. As does compromising. A person would need to compromise with their current partner(s) along with any new or future ones to make sure that everyone feels like their needs are met and that no one feels that something is missing or lacking. Be Mine ... You, Too Doug, who is married to Niki. They do a normal part of my sexual expression. Phil Chase BY DANA CHASE not live with us, but Doug resides here Polyamorous people don’t have sex with he other morning I was standing scheduled nights of the week and his everything that moves. We are, generally What is your motivation in the checkout lane behind a man twins often join us at family gatherings. speaking, some of the most sexually for wanting a polyamorous who was buying two Valentine’s We consider ourselves chosen family. responsible beings on this planet. I’m not relationship? T Day cards, each curiously turned faced People tend to view that which a sex-crazed maniac, nor do my multiple I think my motivation is down. The checkout clerk proclaimed is foreign to them through an over- connections mean I’m not “getting roughly the same as it would “What a gentleman!” Jokingly, I added sexualized lens, thereby turning the enough” from my husband. Being be if I were monogamous, but “Yeah he’s double the gentleman, buying exotic into the erotic. It happens to different doesn’t make me an oddity. polyamory allows me a special two cards for a couple of very special marginalized groups who identify as My polyamorous life frequently blurs degree in which to exercise people.” Quickly the man added “Well LGBTQ, and it happens to polyamorists lines, just as it does for those in the that motivation. I have always called myself an “explorer”– I have a daughter as well as a wife,” not as well. Our polycule (that’s how we refer alphabet soup of LGBTQ. How often there is something about the wanting to imply any further romantic to our family grouping) had intercourse have you questioned what to say on human condition, the way that connections. until late last night. Oh you think it was medical forms or other documents? Do we look to each other and within ourselves to answer questions, that After his strong assertion of a wild orgy? Think again. We don’t all the boxes that mark you as male or female pulls at me. Exploring relationships with others within the context monogamy, I felt moved to say “Not that smoosh in a love pile over here. We seem limiting? How about the part that of ethical and consensual non-monogamy provides opportunities there’s anything wrong with having more were doing what polys do best: talking. requires you to answer as single, married, to treasure that connection with other people, and therefore build than one partner. I’m polyamorous and One could argue that polyamorists have divorced or widowed? Most of the time meaning into life. have multiple Valentines.” Blank stares honed expert skills in intercourse, both I can’t for the life of me understand why What is the future of polyamory? from the clerk and the customer. And a re- verbal and physical. Keeping desire my doctor or other professionals need to assertion from the man that he’s buying a aflame, celebrating your body and those know my marital status, and I find myself To me, polyamory is already something that is widely practiced; it card for his daughter. I sometimes enjoy of your partners in all stages of life, frantically scribbling notes in the margins just may not be in the mainstream of society just yet. I believe it has flashing my polyamorous identity, even communicating about what really matters about my other significant connections. already been downgraded from “scandalous” to something seen as innocuous. Most reactions I have gotten have not been negative; they more so during a holiday steeped in – it’s intense. What kinds of conversational topics have been “hey, great for you if that’s what you want to do, but it’s monogamy. seem “safe” when you meet someone not for me.” Judging from this, and other stories I see in the media or First, let me break it down. I have been for the first time? Polyamorists have in my daily life, I would estimate that we are 20-30 years from some legally married to Phillip for nearly a The Polycule many of the same issues with labels as kind of governmental or official recognition of polyamory as a legal quarter century. We live in a big, love- Polyamory is about sex, and it’s not. those who wave the rainbow flag. Small entity. That might seem like a long time, but I think this reflects a filled house with Phillip’s girlfriend, There are times when I hate having talk inevitably turns toward the family natural pace of society and the natural tension we have from opposing whom I consider a kind of sister-wife. to painstakingly explain the sexual dynamic, and who is connected to whom. perspectives, out of which true change can take place. Together we are raising our two teenage dynamic of our polycule, especially to This is when I start to get a little wiggly See Be Mine: Interviews, page 18 sons alongside her teenage boy and those who have no idea whatsoever how 8-year-old girl. I am also partnered with to even begin to process what I take as See Be Mine, page 18

16 BTL | February 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com

® Be Mine Continued from p. 16

in my seat. If I use the word “husband” too many times, the title starts to taste funny in my mouth. It’s not that I am not proud of my legally married spouse - I most certainly am. It’s that I’m part of a larger system that holds just as much importance for me. When talking to strangers, if I use other words like “partner,” “wife,” “boyfriend,” or “girlfriend,” I feel like I suddenly have to explain whole chunks of my world that I don’t always feel up to exposing. Ethical Non-Monogamy Polyamory has been described as consensual, ethical, responsible non-monogamy. Lying, cheating and hypocrisy nevertheless: monogamy by choice? Hot. Forced monogamy? most certainly don’t fit in to the schema. If polyamory were Not. The same could be said of polyamory. In no way am I more accepted in mainstream culture, if it could hold couples implying everyone do or be what I believe is true for me. It’s together better by allowing each individual freedom to explore, just that, in a predominately monogamous culture, I find it’s a would family structures improve? How many marriages have bit more difficult for me to connect to others in a way that feels ended because a spouse cheated? If, instead, open, honest natural to me. I think the LGBTQ community can identify with communication lead to deeper bonds, could children see that the struggle to define oneself inside rigid structures. loving someone else doesn’t blow the world apart? That’s how After all, who out there can put a box around love? Or wrap things have worked for us. it up in just one Valentine card? Tell me something: if a young girl knows the difference Dana Chase grew up in Grand Rapids and holds a Ph.D. in French between polyamory and cheating, why can’t society see it, too? and Romance Philology from Columbia University. She works Rachael’s daughter tells all her friends about her polyamorous part time at a local coffee shop in addition to running a very busy family. When one of them exclaimed “That’s cheating!” she household. Actively putting a face to polyamory for close to a decade, replied “No it isn’t. My mom and Phil’s wife are friends on Facebook.” Which, of course, makes it all legit. Dana has appeared at conferences, spoken to college classes and Studies are being done to identify a gene that predisposes church groups, served on professional boards, and even held a feature one to desire more than one sexual partner. Unfortunately, spot on the evening news. She hopes to one day publish a memoir of it’s been referred to as the cheaters’ gene. One needs to her colorful polyamorous journey. only look to the animal kingdom to find that few species are completely monogamous. Hopefully, as more people practice polyamory openly rather than having multiple partners behind ® Be Mine: Interviews their primary’s back, more interest in further research will be Continued from p. 16 generated and the gene will be named something that doesn’t imply dishonesty. Is it nature or nurture that shapes us as polyamorous? We Doug MacRae may never know for certain. Here’s something I believe in Do, or should, children know about their parents’ polyamory lovestyle? Discuss why or why not. All our children do know and in general I feel that children should know for several different reasons. By hiding the fact that you have another person in your life you are creating a sense of shame about having that person in your life. If your kids see you love your nesting partner, why is it wrong for them to see you love another partner. Love isn’t wrong and I feel that hiding this says otherwise. It’s also important for your partners to feel like they’re not secrets or things we need to lie about. And what if the kids begin to suspect or figure out what’s really going on? They might lose a lot of trust in you and question the world view you put out ... kids are smart and probably see a great deal more than you think. I know a lot of people in the community don’t tell their kids. That’s understandable, they worry about what kind of information about them gets out to employers teachers, etc. Also it’s a difficult topic to broach with them, but I’ve always felt it was worth it in the long run. My children now have a new set of “poly” siblings that they can hang out with and learn from and they too know that there are other options for themselves other than what society puts forth.

18 BTL | February 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com February 8, 2018 | BTL 19 Dancing Harder Burlesque Show Coming to Menjo’s in Detroit

BY JONATHAN W. THURSTON achieve that celebrity status – if it means anything at all? “Get ready to get Harder!” That all said, I wrote “Porn to That’s the slogan for Chris be a Star” because I wanted Harder’s burlesque show to talk about the sex industry “Porn to Be a Star,” directed in a way that didn’t demonize by Obie Award-winning porn and especially victimize performer and playwright its performers. I think there David Drake. The show, which are plenty of narratives incorporates elements of already that give audiences burlesque, video and footage the impression that porn of Harder’s own adult scenes, will ruin your life (Boogie is coming to Detroit. Harder, Nights, etc). Culturally we’re a “North Dakota boy turned led to believe that sex equals New Yorker,” is a performer guilt. I wanted to enforce and writer. He moved to NYC the idea that it’s possible to about 10 years ago to be an enjoy one’s sexuality – even actor and soon after found monetize it – and still live a himself on stages in a different full life. kind of way. BTL spoke with him to see what all the rage was about. Do you have a kind of ... behind- the-scenes story for us? Anything that most of your fans would be What is your show about and surprised to hear or would laugh what we can expect from it? at hearing? “Porn to be a Star” is loosely One of the funniest memories based off my own experiences I have from doing porn was in the adult industry. I play a Photo courtesy of David Allyon a scene I shot with Kink.com variety of adult performers a few years ago. I played – including a version of an FBI agent in pursuit of myself – all competing to all over the place. I’ve been able to an escaped convict (Wolf win the fictional Dirty Dish Porn Star perform of beautiful stages in Vienna, Hudson) who then manages to turn of the Year Award. Along the way, the Stockholm and New Zealand, but I also the tables and capture me with my audience also meets a gossipy gay love doing shows in dive bars too. And own handcuffs. You can imagine how blogger, a foot obsessed director and I promise I’m not kissing ass, but I love the rest played, or, you know, Google even my own Mom – though I should performing at the annual Detroit Dirty it. The crazy part is that we filmed the say she’s much prettier in real person. Show. It’s actually one of my favorite entire thing on top of an old monastery The play also incorporates burlesque gigs because it’s such an eclectic mix that was reconverted into a hippie artist numbers so there’s plenty of skin to of performers and audience members – commune – did I mention this was San accompany the satire. and nudity. Francisco? Then while we were filming the scene I happened to look to my left What got you started in burlesque? and see a bunch of construction workers What kinds of sexual and/or gender just chilling out on the roof across from My start in burlesque was pretty themes or messages do you hope come us eating their lunch and watching the accidental. I started working as a go-go across during your shows? scene play out. It was very Village dancer – after accidentally losing my I think one of the larger themes of the People meets porn meets religious job as a waiter – and it was in the gay show revolves around the idea that awakening. bars and clubs of New York that I also everyone wants to be seen, whether it’s met all these amazing Burlesque and on the cover of Vogue or the cover of performance artists. Inches Magazine. Social media has so Find out more and #getHarder dramatically changed not only the way at HarderBurlesque.com and @ What’s been some of the best experiences our culture looks at “celebrity” but also HarderBurlesque on Instagram and Twitter. you’ve had working in burlesque? how one achieves that celebrity status. To purchase tickets for $18, visit Menjo’s on The other central theme of “Porn to be a facebook.com/olympustheater. Some of the best experiences I’ve had Star” then becomes what does it mean to as a burlesque performer have happened

20 BTL | February 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com 10 Valentine’s Day Events for Anyone’s Schedule COMPILED BY EVE KUCHARSKI

1 CHIPPENDALES – Interested and the show begins at 8. For more special to an evening of speciality in spicing up your evening? Join information, visit themasonic.com. cheeses and craft brews, and save the audience for the Chippendales’ room for a special dessert course. 2018: About Last Night Tour. Seen by 5 VALENTINE’S DAY SOUL JAM – Mug Club members can use their more than 2 million people annually, If music is the way that you’d prefer email promo code for $25 tickets, the exotic dance show is the perfect to spend Valentine’s Day, then the otherwise they are $30. Events can day to end your Valentine’s Day Fox Theatre’s Valentine’s Day Soul be purchased online via Eventbrite. Celebrations. The show will be at the Jam is the perfect match for you. com. Farmington Brewing Company Fillmore on Feb. 15 at 8 p.m. Tickets On Feb. 14, at 8 p.m., the venue is located at 33336 Grand River Ave., start at $40. The Fillmore is located will feature Russell Thompkins Jr. Farmington. at 2115 Woodward Ave., Detroit. & The New Stylistics, Gerald Alston, More information can be found The Manhattans, The Dramatics and 8 VISONS ‘N VINO VALENTINE online at chippendales. - Couples Vision com/touring-show. Board Event – If you’re ready to take 2 V-DAY EVE BASH! the next step with – Before you indulge in a your significant other, traditional Valentine’s Day bring them to Visions celebration on Feb. 14, ‘N Vino Valentine. make some new friends The Lover’s Lane the night before! Held at sponsored event is Detroit’s Baltimore Gallery BYOB and BYO date. at 314 E. Baltimore St., At the Feb. 24 event, the first annual V-Day dream coach and Eve Bash is all about Training specialist celebrating the diversity Dianna Moses will and love that friendships guide you through the can bring. The event’s process of creating a Facebook page urges dream vision board. attendees to come ready There will also be a to meet new people and chance to win Lover’s to “bring your boo, bring Lane door prizes. The your pals, BYOB.” The free first 20 registrants event starts at 8 p.m. and also get 20 percent lasts until midnight. More off in-store. More information can be found information can be online at gaybe.am/bt. Deniece Williams. The Fox Theatre found online at eventbrite.com, Detroit is located at 2211 Woodward tickets start at $25. 3 PORN TO BE A STAR – A New Ave. More information can be found Play by Chris Harder – It’s not often online at livenation.com. 9 RUN 4 LOVE 5K & 10K – that you can get this close and Sometimes charity can be the personal to the adult entertainment 6 HEARTS FOR ART AT greatest form of love. If you want to industry, but this Valentine’s Day, CRANBROOK – Valentine’s Day donate to a cause and stay active you have the chance! Gay porn and doesn’t only have to be about this February and March, complete burlesque performer Chris Harder romantic love, at the Cranbrook a 5 or a 10k race that you time takes you behind the scenes with a Art Museum, it’s about art. Stop yourself and send in your time to one-man show that’s loosely based by between Saturday, Feb. 10 and moonjoggers.com. Pair that with a on his own career in the industry. Friday, Feb. 16 and you can pick $20 donation, and you’ll not only be Head over to the Menjos Complex - up hearts at the front desk to helping women in Haiti with Heart to Olympus Theater at 940 McNichols make your favorite artwork your Heart International, but you’ll receive Road W. in Detroit for a play that’s valentine. If you post a photo of a medal set that spells out “love” unafraid to bare it all. Porn to be a your chosen art piece on Instagram when combined. Star will be held on Feb. 14 and 15. with the hashtag #HeartsForArt, Doors open at 7:30 p.m., and tickets you’ll be entered for a chance to 10 VALENTINE’S TEA WITH MARY start at $18. Couples attending on win an exhibition catalogue. More TODD LINCOLN – On Feb. 10, Mary Feb. 14 can get in for $30 at the door. information can be found online at Todd Lincoln can join you as a guest cranbrookartmuseum.org. for tea at the Westland Historic 4 VALENTINE’S LOVE JAM – Village Park. Food and tea will be Ladies, get in the Valentine’s Day 7 VALENTINE’S BEER AND provided for the event, while Mary mood early with the Masonic CHEESE PAIRING – Beer and discusses her relationship with Temple’s Valentine’s Love Jam cheese are certainly a match made President Abraham Lincoln. Tickets Ladies Night Edition on Friday, Feb. in heaven, and on Feb. 12 the are available online at eventbrite. 9. The event is packed to the brim Farmington Brewing Company, com and start at $40. The event with local artists, featuring Tyrese, The Cheese Lady and Sunflour includes four different kinds of Joe, Ginuwine, Dave Hollster and Bakehaus are combining their sandwiches, scones and three NEXT, with tickets ranging from love of food for a love-filled tasting desserts. $65 to $125. Doors open at 7 p.m., event. Treat yourself or someone www.PrideSource.com February 8, 2018 | BTL 21 A Sassy V-Day Gift Guide Sugar & Spice for LGBTQ Friends and Lovers

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A new Sorry,” “What Would Beyoncé nontraditional tradition is born Do?” and “I Twirl On Them (for less than the cost of those Haters” – because fucking right she dead-in-a-day roses). $16-$18, does. $10, shop.whohaha.com ranchomeladuco.com; $60, frutapop.com Cafflano Klassic Coffee Maker This all-in-one portable coffee Hair-On Cowhide Shoes maker – it grinds, filters, and drips Natural hair-on cowhide with into a travel mug for a hot-and-ready unique mottled patterns will pick-me-up – will save enough make a statement when y’all time in the morning that you two step out for dinner and a movie, can sneak in a rise-and-shine lay- but it’s also something you can me-down. $95, primarygroup.net crown of the U.S. Bank tower to feel good about: Each pair of announce your engagement, a slide Uwezos purchased provides a Cluventure Surprise Vacay down Skyspace’s famous 45-foot percentage of profits to Empower Skyslide, and a private helicopter African Children to help students Take your better half on a getaway tour for your flyaway finale. 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22 BTL | February 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Queer Non-Binary Artist Graces Cover of WUSSY’s ‘The Sex Issue’ BY BTL STAFF

USSY Magazine has recently published “The Sex Issue” featuring Wqueer, non-binary artist Shamir. The 120-page issue includes a spread and interview with the singer as well as work from more than 400 queer photographers, illustrators, and writers. “The Sex Issue” is available in select bookstores globally including London, Berlin, Barcelona, Vancouver, NYC, Atlanta, Asheville, and Milwaukee. Copies of “The Sex Issue” as well as WUSSY’s first two issues, “The Fight Issue” and “The Body Issue,” are available on their website. WUSSY is an Atlanta-based publication that produces original content which encourages the discussion of life, politics, art, and expression from the perspective of the LGBTQIA+ community. In the artists and in keeping with that mission, works since 2012, WUSSY has garnered they accept submissions from artists and a dedicated following of readers who look writers throughout the southeast and to the publication for a curated, singular, beyond. queer-centric point-of-view. Part of their mission is to create spaces for queer For more information, visit wussymag.com.

Michigan’s Definitive LGBTQ-Friendly Wedding & Anniversary Guide MiLGBTWedding.com Join Us on March 11 for the 2018 Expo (See back cover for more info) To learn more contact A PROJECT OF [email protected]

Call 734-293-7200 ext. 22 www.PrideSource.com February 8, 2018 | BTL 23 Finding Neverland at Fisher Theatre Directed by Tony Award-winner Diane Paulus, “Finding Neverland” is based on the Academy Award-winning film of the same name. The story follows playwright J.M. Barrie as he struggles to find the inspiration to create Peter Pan. It has been hailed by NPR as “far and away the best musical of the year!” “Finding Neverland” will run from Feb. 6 to 18, every Tuesday to Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Sunday evenings at 6:30 p.m., Saturday matinees are at 2 p.m. and Sunday matinees are at 1 p.m. Tickets start at $39. More information can be found online at broadwayindetroit.com. The Fisher Theatre is located at the Fisher Building at 3011 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit.

Drive,Ypsilanti. 734-485-8725 http:// OUTINGS www.dawnfarm.org/programs/education- series Friday, Feb. 9 Swing Dance Party 9:00 pm Dust off Saturday, Feb. 24 those dancing shoes and come decked The Erotic Poetry & Music Festival out in your best vintage attire for the 8:00 pm “An eclectic celebration of ultimate swing dance party at The Cube the erotic arts!” The infamous “Erotic in Midtown Detroit. Arrive early for a Poetry & Music Festival” is Detroit’s dance lesson and your favorite Max M. oldest community arts festival. “An & Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center, 3711 eclectic celebration of the erotic arts!” Woodward Avenue,Detroit. 3135765162 it features provocative poetry, dirty https://www.dso.org/ShowEventsView. spoken word, erotic Tangent Gallery, aspx?id=4971&prod=4970 715 East Milwaukee Avenue,Detroit. 2484451277 http://www.facebook.com/ Tuesday, Feb. 20 EroticPoetryandMusicFestival Does Addiction Treatment Work? 7:30 pm By Carl Christensen, MD, Ph.D., Tuesday, Feb. 27 D-FASAM. Learn about the relative Relapse Prevention 7:30 pm By Erik efficacy of various treatments for Anderson LMSW, CAADC will describe addiction. Free. St. Joseph Mercy Hospital creative, effective strategies to handle Education Center Auditorium, 5305 Elliott both every-day and high-risk situations

in recovery from addiction. Free. St. Ravel’s “The Child and the Spells” and Les Nubians + DJ Cambeaux Feb. the Spells” and Poulenc’s “The Breasts Joseph Mercy Hospital Education Center Poulenc’s “The Breasts of Tiresias” 24, 9:30 pm Vocal Duo Les Nubians, of Tiresias” Feb. 25 7:30 pm Tickets: $25 Auditorium, 5305 Elliott Drive,Ypsilanti. Feb 22-23, 7:30 pm Tickets: $25 adults, comprised of sisters Hélène and Célia adults, $15 students Jam Handy, 2900 E. 734-485-8725 http://www.dawnfarm.org/ $15 students Jam Handy, 2900 E. Grand Faussart from Paris France, brings Grand Blvd.,Detroit. 313-451-0806 http:// programs/education-series Blvd.,Detroit. 313-451-0806 http://www. their distinctive Afropean, Urban, R&B www.operamodo.com operamodo.com sound to The Cube for an evening not to be missed. Max M. & Marjorie S. BTL’s LGBT Wedding & Anniversary Feb. 24, 2:30 March 11, 12:00 pm It’s back! Afternoon of Spirituals Fisher Music Center, 3711 Woodward Expo! MUSIC & MORE pm Join me for An Afternoon of Spirituals! Don’t miss the fun! Watch for details! 2 Avenue,Detroit. 3135765162 https:// Valentine’s Day With Cyrille Aimée In honor of Black History Month, I am Free tickets with code: BTL2018. Register www.dso.org/ShowEventsView. Feb. 147:00 pm “A massively talented continuing my “Favorite Things” concert @ MiLGBTWedding.com Motor City aspx?id=4749&prod=4748 international chanteuse,” exclaims series with a compilation of all of my Casino, 2901 Grand River Ave.,Detroit. the New York Observer. Spend this favorite spirituals. Experience heartfelt A2CT’s 9th Annual Chili Cook – Off 866-782-9622 [email protected] Valentine’s Day with your special melodies to touch Walled Lake United Feb. 25 2:00 pm Ann Arbor Civic Theatre [email protected] someone and French cabaret vocalist Methodist Church, 313 E. Northport announces its ninth Annual Chili Cook-Off Cyrille Aimée. TICKETS: $49 – VIP St,,Walled Lake. https://www.facebook. on Sunday, Feb. 25 from 2-5 pm at The Experience -Includes reserved section com/events/274419413088758/ Wolverine State Brewing Company at THEATER premium seating and Max M. & Marjorie 2019 West Stadium Blvd, A2, MI, 48103. A2CT Junior Theatre Audition S. Fisher Music Center, 3711 Woodward Ravel’s “The Child and the Spells” and Tickets for the event Wolverine State Workshop 10:00 am A2CT will hold Avenue,Detroit. 3135765162 https:// Poulenc’s “The Breasts of Tiresias” Brewing Company, 2019 W. Stadium Feb. 24 7:30 pm Tickets: $25 adults, a workshop on auditioning for Junior www.dso.org/ShowEventsView. Blvd,Ann Arbor. 734-369-2990 www. $15 students Jam Handy, 2900 E. Grand Theatre productions on Saturday, Feb. 3, aspx?id=4760&prod=4759 wolverinebeer.com http://www.a2ct.org Blvd.,Detroit. 313-451-0806 http://www. from 10:00am to noon at the A2CT Studio, Le Ciné Cube Feb. 16 10:30 pm Film operamodo.com Ravel’s “The Child and 322 West Ann Street, Ann Arbor, MI, Shorts + Live Music by the Andrew Alden Ensemble Silent French films come to life with live music performed by the Andrew Alden Ensemble. From 1920’s Avant-Garde horror to famous shorts by French Filmmaker Max M. & Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center, 3711 Woodward Avenue,Detroit. 3135765162 https://www.dso.org/ShowEventsView. The Fags at the Magic Bag aspx?id=4765&prod=4764 Detroit-based power pop band The Fags are making Le Ciné Cube Feb. 17 5:30 pm Screening of Round Midnight + Q&A Bertrand their way to Ferndale on Feb. 23. Famous for their Tavernier’s 1986 American-French imposing riffs and ragged-sounding vocals, the group musical drama film Round Midnight stars has been performing since 2000. legendary jazz saxophonist Dexter Gordon, François Cluzet,and Herbie Hancock and captures the Paris jazz scene of This show is 18 and up. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the1950s. Martin Scorsese, Max M. & Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center, 3711 tickets start at $12. The Magic Bag is located at 22920 Woodward Avenue,Detroit. 3135765162 Woodward Ave., Ferndale. More information can be https://www.dso.org/ShowEventsView. aspx?id=4762&prod=4761 found online at themagicbag.com.

24 BTL | February 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com CCS Features LGBTQ Perspectives on Film, Video From Feb. 10 through March 10, visitors to the Valade Family Gallery at the College for Creative Studies can hear and see eight different LGBTQ artists reflect on contemporary film and video. “Exhibit: Desire as Politics” spans from 1985 to 2017, while artists reflect on everything from the unique LGBTQ perspective, to representation and love.

More information about the exhibit can be found online at gaybe.am/px

Cecilia Dougherty, “Gay Tape: Butch and Femme,” 1985.

48104. As a part of A2CT Studio Theatre, Bizarre Orchestra under the leadership 764-8572 http://www.rackham.umich. 322 W. Ann St.,Ann Arbor. 734-971-2228 of Joshua James. Featured acts opening edu/rackham-building/amphitheatre http://www.a2ct.org the show include: Michigan artists Josie https://stamps.umich.edu/stamps/detail/ Pace, Lushes LaMoan, Scott Dambacher joseph_keckler2 Our Lady of Poison Giulia Tofana and (Scotty D.), The F.A.H. Corps The Crofoot, her daughter Girolama are beloved 1 s. Sagina,Pontiac. 248-850-9333 www. Penny Stamps Speaker Series presents apothecaries, and skilled poisoners. This thecrofoot.com https://www.facebook. Stephen Burks: Towards a New mother-daughter team run an infamous com/events/149039172418719/ Perception of Design Feb. 8, 5:10 pm underground operation to provide Stephen Burks believes in a pluralistic unfortunate wives with an escape from Porn to be a Star 7:30 pm Burlesque vision of design that is inclusive of untenable marriages. Based on historical performer and adult film actor Chris all cultural perspectives. His ongoing events. Check Williamston Theatre, 122 S. Harder takes you by the hand on an Man Made project bridges the gap Putnam Road,Williamston. 517-655- up close and in your face search for separating authentic developing-world SHOW http://www.williamstontheatre.org gay porn stardom like you’ve never production, industrial manufacturing, and seen! Directed by Obie Award-winning contemporary design. Independently and Into The Woods 8:00 pm Tickets performer/playwright One event on Feb. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St.,Ann $23-$26.50 Baldwin Theatre, 415 South 15 at 7:30pm Menjos Complex – Olympus Arbor. 734-668-8397 https://stamps. Lafayette,Royal Oak. 2485418027 http:// Theater, 940 W. McNichols,Detroit. umich.edu/stamps/detail/stephen_burks www.stagecrafters.org 3132659061 www.newmenjoscomplex. Satori Circus: These Are My Friends They, Themself, and Schmerm 8:00 com http://www.newmenjoscomplex.com/ olympus-theater Feb. 10, 7:00 pm Performance Artist pm Part classic standup comedy SATORI CIRCUS, performs with The special, part confessional memoir, and The Accidental Magician: Music, Theatre Bizarre Orchestra under the part performance art, They, Themself Magic & Film 7:00 pm Max M. & leadership of Joshua James. Featured and Schmerm is Becca Blackwell’s Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center, 3711 acts opening the show include: Michigan disturbingly hilarious personal tale Woodward Avenue,Detroit. 3135765162 artists Josie Pace, Lushes LaMoan, detailing the tragicomic transitions in life, https://www.dso.org/ShowEventsView. Scott Dambacher (Scotty D.), The F.A.H. family, sex, and gender while asking One aspx?id=4771&prod=4769 Corps The Crofoot, 1 s. Sagina,Pontiac. event on Feb. 1 at 8:00pmOne event on 248-850-9333 www.thecrofoot. Feb. 2 at 8:00pmOne event on Feb. 3 at com https://www.facebook.com/ 8:00pm Arthur Miller Theatre, 1226 Murfin events/149039172418719/ Ave.,Ann Arbor. 734-764-2538 http:// ART ‘N’ AROUND smtd.umich.edu/about/facilities/north_ The Art of Containment 50 plus Vessels Penny Stamps Series presents Jaime campus/walgreen/arthurmiller/ https:// from Bloomfield Hills resident Sidney Hayon: Design Follows Function, ums.org/performance/they-themself-and- Swidler’s Collection, curated & amassed and then What? Feb. 15, 5:10 pm schmerm/ over 30 years! Tickets: Adults $7, Kids $5, Spanish artist-designer Jaime Hayon Senior Citizens $5, Free under 12, FREE was born in Madrid in 1974. From his DMTC Library Series: Community SATURDAYS! Flint Institute of Arts, 1120 E. very first collections, Hayon has been at Show and Tell 7:00 pm Join Detroit Kearsley St.,Flint. 810-234-1695 https:// the forefront of a new wave that blurs Mercy Theatre Company at Ferndale Area flintarts.org the lines between art, decoration, and District Library for “Community Show Monet – Framing Life 9:00 am One ticket design, leading Michigan Theater, 603 and Tell: Music that Inspires.” Join us E. Liberty St.,Ann Arbor. 734-668-8397 and share a song or piece of music that sends you on on two artistic adventures — Monet: Framing Life and Church: A https://stamps.umich.edu/stamps/detail/ inspires you or your life. This ferndale jaime_hayon public library, 222 E 9 Mile Rd,Ferndale. Painter’s Pilgrimage. Travel to distinct 2485462504 https://www.facebook.com/ places and time in history to experience Penny Stamps Series presents Chico events/108153576658387/ the world as these two artists did. MacMurtrie: Border Crossers – Part Detroit Institute of Arts, 2100 Woodward 2 Feb. 16, 5:30 pm Special Event: A2CT Auditons for Arcadia 7:00 pm Ann Ave.,Detroit. 313-833-7900 http://www. Friday, Feb. 16 at 5:30 pm / Helmut Arbor Civic Theatre announces auditions dia.org Stern Auditorium, UMMA, 525 S State for its main stage production of Arcadia Joseph Keckler: Dragon at the Edge of St, Ann Arbor 48109 Chico MacMurtrie by Tom Stoppard, directed by Melissa is an award-winning artist, renowned Freilich. Auditions will take place Thursday a Flat World, Penny Stamps Speaker Series Special Event Feb. 7, 5:30 pm internationally for his large-scale and Friday, Feb. 8 and 9, beginning at 7 sculptures, whose work combines Helmut A2CT Studio Theatre, 322 W. Ann St.,Ann Special Event: Wednesday, Feb. 7 at 5:30 pm / Rackham Auditorium, 915 E. Stern Auditorium, UMMA, 525 S State Arbor. 734-971-2228 http://http;//www. St,Ann Arbor. 734.764.0395 https:// a2ct.org/audition Washingon St, Ann Arbor 48109 Straddling the worlds of music, art, and performance, umma.umich.edu/plan-your-visit#hours Satori Circus: These Are My Friends Joseph Keckler has garnered acclaim for https://stamps.umich.edu/stamps/detail/ 7:00 pm Performance Artist SATORI his rich, versatile Rackham Auditorium, chico_macmurtrie1 CIRCUS, performs with The Theatre 915 E. Washingon St,Ann Arbor. (734) www.PrideSource.com February 8, 2018 | BTL 25 COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS Home Sweet Home A Benefit for the Ozone House BY BTL STAFF program in Detroit. He also worked as the Education Coordinator with he Ozone House invites members an after school pregnancy prevention of the community to enjoy program in Detroit and his passion Twine, chocolate, and cheese at for supporting LGBTQ youth led him 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 13 at Zingerman’s to complete an internship with Ruth Greyline, 100 N. Ashley in Ann Arbor. Ellis Center. At Ozone House, Gaulier To help celebrate the young people has found a home with a “delightful that seek support from the Ozone atmosphere.” He believes Ozone House, Patrick Gaulier will be a guest House is a place that values its mission speaker. He has been with Ozone and the work each employee does is House for over six years. Starting as informed by that mission. In his work a crisis line volunteer, he became a as SOLO case manager, he embraces PrideZone facilitator in July of 2012 challenges and truly sees the impact then a case manager in September Patrick Gaulier of his work through a young person’s of 2012. Currently, he is the lead ability to take care of themselves. PrideZone facilitator and a clinical case When Gaulier has down time he and, prior to coming to Ozone House, manager focusing on our clients in need likes to go for runs, cook vegetarian worked in the Detroit metro area. He used of permanent supportive housing through delights, post Lisa Frank memes, and his undergraduate degrees in English and our SOLO program. In addition, Patrick play with his dog Evie. Connect with teaching from MSU to teach English at earned his MSW from Eastern Michigan Gaulier during the event, send him an Waterford Kettering High School before University in 2017 with a focus on email at [email protected] or entering Americorps and completing his mental illness and chemical dependency. call the main office at 734-662-2265. service at the Boys Hope Girls Hope Gaulier is originally from Royal Oak To purchase tickets, visit gaybe.am/gf. Rev. David A. Bullock to Give Black History Month Lecture at LGBT Detroit

GBT Detroit welcomes Rev. Special consideration has been David Alexander Bullock to the given to volunteer Melani I. Lweekly community conversation Baker-Mood, who dedicated her “Talk Tuesday,” on Feb. 13, at 5:30 p.m. personal, academic and professional Rev. Bullock will address homophobia life advocating for all minorities, within the African-American community including LGBT populations. and how it hinders upcoming leaders. “I was honored to have assisted “We are thrilled to have such an in this project, overjoyed in aligning influential ally as Rev. Bullock speak with LGBT Detroit’s vision, and to an issue important to believers,” said tremendously gifted with the passion LGBT Detroit Executive Director Curtis shared by Rev. Bullock,” said Baker- Lipscomb. “As a faith leader in Metro Mood. Detroit, his unique position allows Black History Month began attention to this ongoing topic.” as “Negro History Week,” which Bullock, a graduate of Morehouse was created in 1926 by Carter G. College, received a masters of arts in Woodson, a noted African-American philosophy from Wayne State University historian, scholar, educator and in 2003. He has served as an adjunct publisher. It became a month-long college professor in both Michigan and celebration in 1976. The month of Illinois, and as the past president of the Rev. David Alexander Bullock February was chosen to coincide Highland Park NAACP. with the birthdays of Frederick Bullock is also a former president Emergency manager law PA4. Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. of the Detroit chapter of Operation Currently, he is the pastor of the The lecture will be held at 20025 Greenfield Rainbow Push and the State of Michigan Greater St. Matthew Baptist Church in Coordinator. He is nationally recognized Highland Park, and a talk show host for Road in Detroit. LGBT Detroit can be as a key organizer of the successful “The David Bullock Show” on 910 AM reached online at lgbtdetroit.org, or by phone campaign to repeal the controversial Superstation. at 313-397-2127.

26 BTL | February 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Tea and Coffee Week Combats ‘Corporate Coffee Culture’

BY BTL STAFF debut some of its newest creations. “We’re also launching a bunch of stuff, t kicked off in 2015 as just Tea Week, some of our new spring teas, plus we’re rebranded itself to Tea and Kombucha launching cheese tea, which I think is going to Iweek and now, in its third iteration, its be a very big deal,” Majid said. “It’s essentially founder Eli Majid thinks it’s finally where it an iced tea, like iced black tea with whipped should be as Michigan Tea and Coffee Week, up, liquid cheesecake floating on top. It’s very from Feb. 11 to 18. big in Singapore, Hong Kong, etc. and we’ll “But it has Kombucha as well,” Said Majid. probably be the first ones here. The only other “I think the main focus was really to combat places that offer it — there’s one shop in New corporate coffee culture, that’s what I’m York and one in LA — so we’re keeping that calling it. We’re an independent tea shop and under tight wraps until we throw it out there. supply coffee shops, we work with kombucha I think it’ll have a big following.” brewers and we’re all pretty much on the same But Eli Tea Bar will only be hosting a wavelength. So, this was kind of our pushback fraction of the week’s events. All over Metro to show Michigan what else there is besides Detroit, Tea and Coffee Week attendees Starbucks and Tim Horton’s and Biggby.” can register for a variety of tea, coffee or Majid is the owner of Eli Tea Bar, located kombucha-related events — and interest is in Birmingham. The shop will host many of high. the events that the week will bring, and he said “The events are modeled after a restaurant he hopes to flip the perception of what most week, which means all the independent shops Michigander’s view as “normal” on its head. are hosting their own events. The Aphro-Tea- “We have a Kombucha 101, and we have Siac, that’s an interesting one,” Majid said. a Thirs-Tea Wednesday that we’re launching. “It’s hosted by intu tea, she has been selling at It’s kind of a 12-tea tasting of all the weird Eastern Market and Saturday markets for over and funky stuff. We’re half sold out for that 20 years, and now every single Valentine’s Day right now, but we still have a few days until event which is completely sold out. They even the coffee week,” Majid said. “Drifter Coffee had a second seating and the second seating will be doing a takeover here. She has a coffee sold out as well.” caboose that she normally travels around Still, even though some events are sold out, Michigan with, but she’s taking over our shop the week has over 20 to choose from. for four hours and bringing coffee, pour-overs, To find more information about different Tea different flights and all that.” The week will also allow Eli Tea Bar to and Coffee Week events, go online to miteacoffee. com/events. www.PrideSource.com February 8, 2018 | BTL 27 Classifieds Call 734-293-7200 ext.22 301 EMPLOYMENT - 320 EMPLOYMENT – 1102 EROTICA - GENERAL WANTED MASSAGE

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28 BTL | February 8, 2018 www.PrideSource.com Q Puzzle 42 End of the quote 11 “No way!” 47 GayBFF and others 12 “Aida” lyricist Tim 48 Carrie’s “Star Wars” role 13 Type of drama in the land of 49 Convertible for a bottom? Samurai 52 Harvey, in “Torch Song 21 Cristina of “Grey’s Anatomy” Trilogy” 22 Some vowels of Sappho 56 “Guys and Dolls” co-creator 25 Ray who gets the meat to Burrows you fast 57 Like clothing that’s hung 26 Nickelodeon explorer 61 Nectar inspector 27 In ___ of 62 Movie about a pregnant 29 Sally portrayer of “Cabaret” teenager 30 Type of stimulation 64 With 65-Across, actress who 31 Pink on the inside played the pregnant teenager 34 Cubby holes? 65 See 64-Across 35 Some forensic evidence 66 Dating from 36 Suffolk, to Shakespeare 67 Terse summons 39 9 inches, e.g. 68 Barbra’s _Funny Girl_ guy 41 Conceptual artist Gaye 69 AIDS flick “Under ___ “ 43 Apple that isn’t a fruit 70 Strait-laced 44 Rule despotically 71 42-Across is a play on an 45 Long in the past expression using this word 46 Lean and sinewy 49 Indian head A Swell Movie Character Down 50 Manhandle 62-Across by a swell movie 1 Fam. docs 51 Type of salami hung in a deli Across character 2 What little things mean, in a 53 Gay-friendlier prez than what 1 GLAAD fundraiser, e.g. 23 Un-American idol Cher song we got 5 Market bear’s fear 24 Mauresmo may win in 3 Rife with vegetation 54 No longer jail bait 10 Alternative to “Go straight” straight ones 4 One that reproduces without 55 Handle on a tractor? 14 A shade of the color purple 25 Duet partner for Tony Bennett sex or adoption 58 Line from “Rent”? 15 Skater Sonja 28 AIDS activist Elizabeth 5 Zadan/Meron musical 59 Guilty, to Perry Mason 16 Langston Hughes was born 32 Lyon king 6 Kidney-related 60 GI Jane portrayer here 33 Diana, to the Greeks 7 About Uranus? 63 Frequently, to Shakespeare 17 Like vanilla sex 37 Gershwin of “Of Thee I Sing” 8 Places to set geraniums 65 Honey holder 18 Including everything 38 Shaft output 9 Protection for the heads for Find Your Tools of Engagement 19 S&M response 40 Aunt in a Disney film tight ends 20 Start of a quote from 41 Peter the Great, for example 10 Object of a foot fetish Find solution to this puzzle at www.pridesource.com

2018 Print Deadline April 15

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