Ihe Emptu Ooset NEW YORK STATE'S OLDEST GAY NEWSPAPER liocal AIDS cases rise in Monroe Co.; U.R. funded for AIOS study money tightens By Susan Jordan Thc Universiry of Rochester Medical A recent study released by thc Hospital Center has received a five-year, $8.55 million Association of New York State shows that dollar contract to try to develop a vaccine AIDS cases are increasing in upstate New for AIDS. York counties, including Monroe, which will The award is one of five from the National add to thc funding concerns felt by local Institutes of Allergy and Infe<;tious Diseases. AIDS service programs and medical centers. It will fund continuing research by the Paula Silvestrone of AIDS Rochester told , medical center's Infectious Diseases Unit, thc Empty Closet, "Initially I was pleased to under way since October 1988, which has sec a rise in thc funding amount for AIDS already produced two experimental in Gov. Cuomo's budget. Of course, vaccines. realistically, there are always going to be The initial studies suggest that thc vac some constraints, but now we leam that the The lead banner in the march. (More photos on ps^e 15) cines stimulate desired immune responses governor is proposing no rise in the budget Photo by T.L. Cvetan with no apparent side effects. According to for community service programs like AIDS Dr. Raphael Dolin, head of the Infectious Rochester. \tfe don't like to hear this, because Diseases Unit and principal investigator for we'll be serving more clients, and will need the AIDS Vaccine Evaluation Unit in to pay more staff. Women take back the night; Rochester, thc experimental vaccines use a "Wc sent staff people to Albany on Feb. part of the human immunodeficienc>' virus 6 to do some lobbying. Also, the communi approx. 1000 march on Feb. 4 (HIV) which docs not lead to AIDS, and ty service programs all around the state met which has been purified lo use as a vaccine. together and hired a lobbyist, and I believe By Susan Jordan date/Two, four, six, eight/Porn is woman Thc vaccines have been tested so far on that lobbyist is already at work for us." Between 850 and 1000 women, men and hate." A group of marchers also responded 23 volunteers, who display no evidence of Thc annual incidence of AIDS cases in children marched through the snowy streets to the presence of anti-choice demonstratois HIV infection, and who are not in a perceiv Monroe County in 1987, thc latest year in of Rochester on Feb. 4 to protest violence outside the church with chants and ed high risk category. Thc goal of thc vac* cluded in thc study, was 6.1 per 100,000, in against women. pot-banging cine project is to prevent HIV infection in dicating that 42 people out of Monroe Coun Thc*Take Back thc Night march surted at March organizer Susan Cosu said, "It real healthy people, although some newer studies ty's estimated population of 700,000 had Genesee Crossroads Park, where Barbara ly went very well. I was very pleased by such focus on immunizing those in early stages AIDS in 1987. By contrast, Monroe County Moore of thc National Organization for a large turnout on a horrible cold winter of HIV infection. reported no AIDS cases at all in 1981. Women (NOW) addressed the crowd. The night. There was lots of enthusiasm, and it -Mary Ellin Arch, Times-Union. Thc study reports that upstate counties marchers proceeded down Sute St. to Lyell was a mixed gathering of different age arc seeing similar increases in AIDS cases, Ave., chanting, carrying candles, flashlights groups, political perspectives, etc., which AIOS Rochester and are following two or three years behind and banners, and banging on pots and pans gives mc hope. It felt very powerful, and it's hires staffers thc growth patterns of metropolitan New to show solidarity with women of Northern good to feel like that." York counties, which have showed sharp in Ireland and Central America, who similarly Cosu said that the protest and issues of , AIDS Rochester, Inc. has recently added creases since 1981. go "from thc kitchen to thc streets/' , four professionals to its staff. In addition, violence against women would be iHscuss- fwo current staiff memtyers have been pro- Sue Cowell, Monroe County AIDS coor At Plymouth Ave. the marchers turned cd at Imemational Women's Day on MarcV\ / mtncd. Michaei Beatty, formerly of Cortland, dinator, said that the HIV-infected popula and -went back down State to Church St., 3, during a workshop entitled "We've TUkcn I New York, is serving as program director. tion is estimated at 8000 in Monroe, Ontario, waUdng past City Hail and down Fitzhugh Back the Night—Now What?" Funher ac Michael has served as clinical coordinator Wayne, Livingston, Steuben, Schuyler, Yates St. to the rally site at Downtown Presbytenan tions and organizing may result. ; and manager of thc departments of Car and Seneca counties. Since AIDS was first Church. Thc original route had included Organizer Luclpda Sangree said, "I was diology and Intensive Care for Cortland identified in the Rochester area in thc early Jones Park, but had had to be changed due glad that we had thc turnout we did. Thc Memorial Hospital. He is also founder and 19805, 199 cases have been diagnosed, and to lack of snow-plowing in the area. continuity expressed in some speakers' . coordinator of thc Cortland County AIDS as of October 1989, 116 of those cases have Outside thc SUte Street Book Mart, a por remarks, building on earlier attempts in the Task Force. He has served on thc board of died, making a fatality rate of 58 percent. Ac nographic bookstore, marchers paused to Rochester women's community to address chant "TWo, four, six. eight/Pom is out of directors of thc Southern Tier AIDS Program. cording to Cowcli. thc Rochester area con 'BUce Back the Night — cont 'd on pg3 , as well as many of its committees. He holds sistently shows up in monthly AIDS statistics a B.S. in Nursing from Wayne Slate as having one of the highest AIDS incidence University. rates in the sute. The increase in AIDS cases Auction raises $13,500 n^t will burden an already-strained county Jeffrey A, Kost is ARI's new volunteer tha Brown, Mike Costelio, Paul Knokc, and coordinator. A graduate of Boston Universi health care system. By Susan Jordan Sue Cowell told thc Empty Closet, "The "A Bid from the Heart," thc Gay Alliance Kathy Reilly and Howard Kilbury. ty, Jeff has varied experience in public rela The profit of S 13,500 brings the building tions, advertising, and personnel, and has state budget is trying to get new initiatives auction held at GEVA Theater on Feb. 11, was off the ground, for insunce by expanding a successful and lively event which brought fund up to 151,029.50. as of Feb. 19. (The done volunteer work for many Rochester fiind drive has raised S20,529 since October, AIDS organizations and committees. anonymous testing programs and designated in a net profit of SI3,500 for the GAGV building fund. which has been added to tht- «1"^.000 Specifically, he serves as Vice-President of care centers. They are going to be develop previously in thc building account.) Helping People with AIDS, Inc.. and has ing a new prison AIDS care system, hiring Organizer Mark Siwiec said, "I thought served on thc Rochester Quilt Committee AIDS educators and health workers. Thc that it was amazing. It look on dimensions and tht AIDS Action Committee. sute is keeping the base funding pre-lcvel for I never thought it would. It was a real step forward for the community." Kimberly A. Henry joins ARI as ad- community service programs, but what wc I ministrative assistant, and Dalma Pacheco as don't know yet is whether this will be just A crowd of over 400 people jammed thc I secretary/receptionist. Kimberly holds a B.S. a one-year thing, or the beginning of a trend. foyer at GEVA, as auctioneer Kate TUite and I from Fredonia State University, where she It's hard to tell right now. assisunt Marcella presided over the bidding I was a research assistant and a computer con- "The AIDS Institute's gross funding has on 1^6 items, ranging from antiques to i suliant. She brings with her experience from leveled off too," Cowell said. "They're try jewelry to dinners at fine restaurants lo a Neil Hirsch Enterprises. Dalma attended ing to put money into subsunce abuse agen variety of services, donated by over 200 local Manhattan Community College and recent cies like RESTART; one initiative is to hire businesses and individuais. ly held a position with the Baden Streei Set AIDS educators to oversee training of slaff." Participants also enjoyed a brunch of tlement's AIDS Program. Durtng thc coming year, according to infor champagne, egg salad, ham, turkey, breads. mation from the AIDS Institute, the state checses, fruits and pastries, prepared by Georgia King Lerner has been promoted Department of Health will work with thc Kerry McRac. Thc afternoon included from health educator to coordinator of Kate Ihite and Marcella Division of Subsunce Abuse Services (DSAS), musical performances by Shelley Kiener and health education. Annie Rogers Long was Photo by Donna Silverman the Division of Alcoholism and Alcohol Mark TUrnbull of Sundard Deviation, Mar promoted from volunteer coordinator to Abuse (DAAA) and the gay community to client services coordinator surt a pilot intervention program which would educate gay and bisexual men about ihje connection between drug and alcohol is IWT> ttieme abuse and AIDS. By 1993* this intervention strategy will be extended to high-risk areas Editorial, Letters pg 2 Intemationai ^Women's Day will be identified by scroprcvalence findings. State and local news 3 celebrated on March 3 tbis year with a day "The state is making a big assumption that of free workshops and events at thc YWCA. local community service programs are deal Newsfronts 4 175 N. Clinton Ave. Thc theme will be ing with the needs of the gay community. Community music scene 6 homclessness, with an emphasis on how it The AIDS Institute five-year plan, devel€^>ed Gay history — Part UI 10 disproportionately affects women. There last year, says that local community service will also be a program of evening entertain pn>gnuns will provide services for gay men Racism in Rochester 11 ment, starting at 8 p.m. and costing $3-^10 with HIV. Are gay men being left behind? Calendar 12 on a sliding scale. Yes, they arc, in some ways, not necessarily TBTN photo essay 15 Thc day will open with registration bet because of the state, but because ttie com ween 9 and 9:30 a.m. Carol O'Connor of the nuinity service progfams afen*t given the Arts^BOk 16 YWCA and Anna Freund of Metro-Act will resources to do tlie job, or they can't always Book reviews 17 deliver a welcofne, to be followed by a panel make tlie resources stretch Iar enou^. lt*s Cartoon 17 discussion on **The Roots of Homelessness: a complex issue. will you be homeless In the 1990s>" Columnists 18 Ncwiwiclii — continued on paae 3 AIDS — contintied on p€ige 14 Gay groups 20 THE EMPTY CLOSET MARCH 1990
MARCH 1990 THE EMPTY CLOSET
State/knalnews—continued from pgl handicapped people, senior dtizens—are Widi one of thc injured victims, who felt she The panelists will include Nancy treated as second-class citizens.... Family had to ileny the charge that she or the dead Kleniwcski, SUNY Geneseo; Siscer Grace Mens* Cborus sings structures have changed dramaticaUy in re women had actually been feminists. ISalcing back the tiight, one tiioi*e thiae Miller of the House of Mercy; Sally McCoy at B'rith Kodesh cent decades. The law should recognize new Feminists who criticize male privUege, who has found it easy and effecdve to appeal to claim a right to function in the world as By Susan Jordan VCfe saw that the domination of women women deserve abuse and blame. Wc tried of the New York State Tenants and social realities.** , deeply-engrained hatred and blaming of equal human beings, are **asking for it;* by patriarchy is enforced daily in American to raise consciousness through the liike Back Neighborhood Coalition, and moderator The Rochester Gay Men's Chorus will prc 'Bun Quillinan, head of the New York State 1 am not mrmg. Wrong ts noi my name. women. And even those who claim a "con The Times-Union recently published an homes, schools, workplaces and on the the Night marches, and through outreach Robin Lavergne. sent a beneflt concert at Tkmple B'rith Lesbian and Gay Lobby, told the Empty June Jordan. It was exciting and fulfilling sistent life ethic" consistendy make an ex article by a man claiming that it is the streets, with all the violence used by racist like slide shows and talks, posters, street The morning workshops will be **Ad- Kodesh, 2131 ELmwood Ave., on April 1 at Closet "There has been no major opposition to take back the night with as many as lOOO ception of women's lives. The ultimate mothers of woman-killers, not the men whites against people of color; by anti- theater and more. STOP signs around town vocacy for the Homeless," by Sr. Grace 3 p.m. The benefit is to help Temple B*rith to the bill yet. AIDS and the bias bill are get other Rochesterians on Ftb. 4. Thc evening obscenity, I believe, is to call a movement themselves, who bear thc responsibility for Semites against Jews; by the mling class suddenly read STOP RAPE. Places where Miller; **Habitat for Humanity;* by Mary Joan Kodesh to bring a funily of Falasha Jews out ting the attention. Probably no one came out reminded mc of similar marches, one in • *pro-Iile* • which seeks thc deaths of woinen, their crimes And when Arthur Shawcross against the working class; by homophobic women had been assaulted suddenly bore Snyder; **\^men and Alcohol.*' by Pat of Ethiopia to Israel. right away in opposition because this is the Brockport in 1988, and two here in the sources of htmian life But to the patriar was charged with some of the serial kiUings heterosexuals against lesbians and gays. Wc witness to that fact. Bomermin and Sally \(%ud; '*^0E^men in the The Falasha (which means "aliens" in second session of a two-year session, and it*s Rochester in 1979 and 1980 when 1 was a chal "pro-lifer," women who choose abor here, the paper quoted a neighbor of the began to sec how all forms of oppression arc However, a split grew within the ranks of Criminal Justice System,** by Annette Arena Amharic) or Beta Israel, the name they very rare that anything gets moved on quick member of Rochester Women Against tion, women who choose to be sexual on Shawcross family as commenting, "His linked, and how the oppressors thrive by feminist activists across the country, bet and Kay Wmblewski; **Health Insurance for prefer, are the last remnant of an ancient ly. There may be no aaion on this bill until Violence Against Women (RWAVAW). their own terms, women who want to make Children and Wbmen/' by Eve Brooks; **Dif- 1991—but who's to say?'* mother says it's not ber fault;* Obviously A decade ago, RWAVAW's -RUce Back the keeping each oppressed group divided from ween those who were focusing on the Big Jewish civilization in Ethiopia. They have Picture (of which pom was only a part) and any choices for themselves, arc '*asking for flcultles and IHumphs of Differently Abled suffered terribly over the centuries from Mrs. Shawcross is familiar with trends in Night marches drew only around 300 par their potential allies. And we saw how the State/local news — ccmtinued on pg 15 patriarchal psychoanalysis. blame for the violence was always placed on those who became obsessed with pom itself, it ' Women," by Sherry Shaw and Debbie religious persecution, for being different ticipants. But they were also very powerful The success of thc Feh 4 march would thc victim. seeking to ban it through legislative means. Tike, for another example, the case of Bonomo; "Women's Movement in the Third from the majority faitt^s around them. They and empowering protests, which freed many World,** by liUTiaxa Sonn; and ^'Daughters of seem to indicate that, in spite of all this, the "She was asking for it." **Shc shouldn't Thc latter group, it seemed to mc, while Charles Stuart of Boston, who shot his preg aie now caught in the civil war that is be XBTN ~- continued from page 1 women to reject passivity and victim sutus Mother Jones: Labor activism from the efforts of feminists in thc last 10 years have have been out at night." "She was wearing well-intentioned and including serious, nant wife Carol and himself, and blamed it ing waged in Ethiopia, as well as from the for the first time. Some marchers in 1980 Vifginia coal fields co Rochester,** by Edna violence against women, made me feel we not been in vain; that women and men arc a tight sweater." "She went into a bar by thoughtful activists, also included some on a fictional Black robber. Society respond continual famine. spray-painted pornography stores. Por Sauls, Bridget Watts, and Theresa Benolone. are really treating these issues as part of wising up in increasing numbers. Thc Big herself." "She was hitch-hiking and accepted women who showed a ceruin uncomfor- ed with predictable racist anger and fear, and Thc Gay Men's Chorus will perform a pro nography was shredded and thrown all over The afternoon workshops arc "Rochester women's oppression, and not as isolated in Picture of women's oppression is growing a ride from a stranger." So her rape and death tablcness with sexuality in general the Boston authorities instituted the usual gram of popular and classical music arrang Sute St. The press reponed the "vandalism" Racism,** by Zozo Laird or Wiithera Kinuthia cidents. I was very impressed with some of clearer, especially, it seems, to thc younger were really her fault, not thc fault of the (undersundable, ^iven society's confusion repression of thc Black community, eager to ed in four parts. Besides their well-received and ignored the issues. and Nancy Gee; "Problems of Parenting in the personal statements written by women generation—college students, young male rapist/killer and prohibitions), and an over-eagemess to place the blame on a suiuble scapegoat. winter and summer concerts, the Chorus is Those early marches protested all forms Inner City Schools,*' by Iris Bannister; who had taken pan in the march. I feel mothers, young working women, who weie of violence against women, with a focus on This blaming of the victim keeps respon define what was sexually "politically cor With Stuart's suicide, society's racism was involved in many community acitivties. The rect" and what was not. revealed in all its unforgiveable ugliness. "China and Its Women," by Jin Haiou; ideals of freedom, and the liberty to claim there's a real momentum now, and we can much in evidence at the march. More and how porn, advertising and male-identified sibility from being placed where it belongs, "Health Carc for thc Homeless" by Mary carry it on.** more of us are making the connections. Wc art objectify women. One good example of keeps violence against women invisible, and This alienated some feminists and other But then came an attempt to place thc one*s true identity, bring the Chorus and women who wcrc interested in exploring blame on the murdered woman herself. I Younge; "Practical Experience in Starting a Temple B'rith Kodesh together for this The rally at Downtown United will no longer take cither the abuse or thc objectification is the infamous Hustler cover is no doubt a factor in thc relative ease with Business,*' by Jerry Wilson, Susan Soleil and Presbyterian Church was a spirited and emo blame for it We will no longer name which showed a naked woman^s body be which batterers and murderers of women sado-masochism, sexual role-playing and read in the Times-Union of mmors cir endeavor to rescue at least one Falasha power-plays, and female-created erotica. It culating on radio call-in shows in Boston, to Mattie Williams; "Coming Out and Finding family. tional gathering. Speakers included Theresa ourselves Victim, Guilty, Wrong. ing put through a meat grinder head first, receive parole. Many such men will continue a Home in the Community," by Rochester Bertolone of the Coalition of Labor Union If there is any important criticism I have with hamburger coming out the other end. lo atuck women, as we have seen in thc case also alienated those who disapproved of any the effect that the dead woman had had co No tickets wili be required, and no ad form of censorship, including the censorship caine in her system, that she had somehow Lesbian Action Coalition, and "We Took mission will be charged at the door. A col Women (CLUW); Esther Ostcrtag of the of thc march u is that it consisted largely It was images like this, and like thc "snuff of Arthur Shawcross, released after serving Back thc Night—Now What?" by Lori Magdalene Project; Yvonne Clinkscalcs of of white women. There were several Black time for the horrible rape-and-murder of a of woman-hating materials, and who pointed known aboul her husband's nefarious ac lection will be taken in behalf of the project, films" which show actual murders of tivities, that her unborn child's father was Henkel and Karen Kirchoff. thc Baden Street Settlement; Martha Brown speakers, and a dozen or so women of col women, which galvanized our rage and child, and now accused of 10 of thc out that a society which bans misogynistic during the evening. porn may also ban gay~and-lesbian-created Black. That, in effect, she had "asked for it." The day program will also featuix* a of Alternatives for Battered Women, and or among the marchers, including one showed us clearly how violence against Rochester serial murders of women. Often, Denise Logan, cousin of Kimberly Logan, woman who told me thai she had taken part men who have tried to kill their wives are erotica: Thc news story commented, "There is not demonstration of Double Dutch by a local women enforces women*s oppression on all an ounce of evidence for any of this conjec rof>c jumping team, and songs by Edna Sauls. who was murdered in November. Arthur in last summer s Topfree protest. But basical levels. If you can make a human being, or released from prison, and the wife is not There was also some co-opting of feminist More details on ture, but it seems to make people feel better Thc evening event, scheduled for the Shawcross, accused of some of the serial kiU ly it was what Martha Brown of ABW refer a whole class of human beings, appear to be even notified; thc first she leams of it is thc anti-pom analysis by thc right wing, who because it makes evil easier to undersund YWCA auditorium, will include dances by partners' bill ings in Rochester over the past two years, has red to as "same-old. same-old"—as in '1 sub-human or non-human objects, then you sight of her husband at the door with a gun. were interested in suppressing pom (that is, and makes everyday life a less uncertain pro Las Diamames. a Hispanic folkloric dance not been charged with Logan's murder; her went to thc Take Back the Night march but can control, enslave, and abuse those peo Women are to blame for male violence making it available only under-the-counter) A bill which would amend the domestic position." ttoupe for girls between 10 and 16, direacd killer is apparently still at large. it was mostly white women—same-old, ple without guilt. If they're not really against them, American society believes, and because they saw sexuality, especially relations law, thc executive law and thc in by Elia Quinones; "Visits from Historical Denise Logan said, **No amount of pro same-old;' Barbara Smith and many other human, if they're just pieces of meat, then female lives are not equal to male lives (even homosexuality, as "filthy" and "sinful"—a I would say that it makes people feel bet surance law of New \brk to provide recogni dangerously pleasurable force which must ter because It erases a white upper-class W^men," directed by Ariene Fanale and per testing or marching is going to bring her Black feminist activists across the country thc violence doesn't count. as Black lives arc not perceived as equal to tion for domestic partnerships went before are claiming feminism for women of color, white lives.) be controlled and punished by the Fathers. male's evil (something impossible for socie formed by her and Caril Powell Price, Lynn thc state assembly and senate in January. back. . .We must take back not only the We researched images of women in night, but also our own neighborhoods.** She and renewing/re-inierpreting what began as Our society is used to blaming women, Meanwhile, as feminists debated, violence ty to understand) and blames it on a wonun; Stephens, Lois Grant and Barbara Scott; and Bill number 9044 would provide legal media, and leamed to spot thc signs of ob- 'f attacked the ease with which murderers arc a white, middle-class movemem. But it's and has done so for thc last 2000 yeaxs, ever against women continued to grow, increas it lets thc everyday acceptance of a concert by local folksinger Bonnie Abrams, status for domestic partnership, defined as jcctification: the female torso without a head released on parole, and the violence which pretty obvious that more work needs to be since Iron Age patriarchs invented the story ingly fueled by male backlash against mainstream male violence against women whose first album was released in 1988, and that of two persons 18 or older, who share or face, or with thc eyes veiled and hidden; pimps and drug dealers inflict on done, primarily by white feminists making of Adam and Eve, re-writing an ancient feminism's threat to touliurian patriarchy continue as usual, without any need for whose second will be out in May. a primary residence and the common the naked woman juxuposcd with clothed neighborhood communities. an effort to be actively anti-racist. Sumcrian myth (dating to at least 4000 years and the rewards (power, profit, privilege) questioning thc certainty that "nice" white Tickets for the evening performance are necessities of life; who are competent to men; thc woman in attitudes of inferiority, men are always good and innocent, women available at Kitabu Kingdom, Silkwood, Wild Martha Brown, a former member of Still, 1 believe that morc and more wometi humiliation or subiection-, thc w^omaA smil ago) in which the Goddess Ninhursag, which it promises, to its faithful soijs. Women enter into a contract; ^'ho arc not closely continued to be devalued, harassed, raped, and people of color alwrays guilty. Seeds Bookstore and Cafe, and at the door related by blood and W\%K> have declared that Rochester WOmcn Against Violence Against arc realizing that- the only wa> things -wWX ing as she is iniurcd-, thc female tK>dy sliown creator of thc earthly paradise, punishes her tortured, killed—and blamed for it. change is if women of all backgrounds and conson Enki for eating her sacred plants, When prostitutes and other women began Both day and evening events arc interpreted they are each other's sole domestic partner. Women (RWAVAW), a radical feminist as a collection of body parts, without in Take, for example, the threat to women's sexual preferences respect each other, con and then heals him with the aid of various dying on the streets of our own city, or for the hearing impaired and arc handicap The bill would provide some benefits to oiganization which sponsored the first Take telligence, feeltngs or a soul. right to choose abortion. It seems to mc that nect with each other, realize our common dieties including Ninti, thc "Lady of the rather when the community finally took ped accessible. Child care is available. For in domesdc partners, such as hospital visitation Back the Night marches in 1979 and 1980, We came to understand that the countless the so-called "pro-life" movement draws oppression (and the ways wc oppress each Rib." notice of it, thc voice of mainstrcam socie formation call Metro-Act, 325-2560. rights, public employee bereavement leave, spoke about the issues which were fought incidents of harassment, rape, battering and much of its strength from Christianity's other), and work consistently for those pro In 1980 it seemed a near-impossible task ty told us through thc media, "These women and public employee health care benefits, for then, and which stUl remain unresolv murder of women were not the meaningless definition of woman as inferior, guilty, and HPA starts found social changes which wiU give women to make the invisible visible; to expose thc wcrc asking for it." "Good women arc safe; which are currently provided only to mar ed. "There is an expression in the Black "isolated incidents" society kept insisting thc source of all human sin. To thc "pro- it's only bad women he's killing.*' "It's ^irish list fund ried heterosexual couples. This legislation community," she said, **same-ole, same-ole. full human status and rights. This is thc they were. Wc began to sec connections. We Big Picture of women's oppression to a challenge that lies beforc feminists in rhe lifers," the lives of women and young girls because some prostitute gave some guy Helping People With AIDS, Inc. has would also make domestic partners eligible That means the same old thing happens began to understand how patriarchy, thc society trained to revere males and devalue coming decade, and it cannot be sepantted are toully unimportant, compared with the AIDS, and he's seeking revenge." "At least it established a Wish List Fund for persons for coverage under group accident and again and again.** totaliurian rule of the Fathers, functions as females; to change thc notions that violence from the other campaigns for social justice, life of a potentially-male fetus which has will clean up the streets." with AIDS. The fiind is being administered health insurance plans. Brown traced the patterns of violence and the very basis of western civilization. against women has no meaning, and that such as the fights against racism, classism never Icnown consciousness. The right wing Editorial — contintied on nextpag
the gay community is like. V(fe try to be con A work which we didn't commission, but Rochester Gay Men's Chonis is a source servative rather than outiandish~but we which we premiered, was '^Home," by Janis have some fun toa A line of gay men tap- Giteck, another esoteric piece which I Ipv- NW: They're one and the same—I've ...^ -*. »...w»«.«n «!•« uia«|ue m some wa\'s dancing in Shirley Itaiple costumes is not ed conducting. We did it here and in Van Chuck Comns^^^^-^*""***^ ^^ni'y- «"°<^'^«"<1""0' with knowledge of voice, most enjoyed getting to know the men as and average in others. A chorus can be from all that conservative! couver, and then in Seattle I worked with the Gav MJ«W^' P*^'***"* of the Rochester ***""** pnxiuction etc. people. That was also the most frustrating, eight to 150 voices, with budgets from 0 to The Rochettes, our tap-dancing crew, will composer and with 600 massed voices. So because people have two sides' go on working on choreography But the N.ck X^llL^^^n''**^ ''^ di.«ao«,1nd ^<^= ?« y«" f«' that the Rochester com- 1250,000, and a range of skiU levels frorn I brought it from our 30-voice group and Thc other best thing has been the growth whole chorus probably won't dance so took it through all those changes, and I stopp^ rS^ 1«^T/ '""''*^" *'^"«'- Wh^'n '^" *"PP<'«ive of the Chorus? I lie uiiicr uesi, tiling ii*a 1^1.^11 ui«. |^v^" w« beginners to among the best in thc country the position has offered mc personally. We're a litde smaller than average. Our much in future; rather, there will sometimes assisted in conducting the actual us a^^tn^nfthe latest n^Ts ab^u^ r^'?^ rhT * «ffic*""*^'e^ t"o' giv^"^e ^^l*" '^» y«" ''•^ that role of thc Chorus as being, both in the gay community and thc Growth as a musician and as a person. I music selection is on a par with what's done be dancers in front of the group. performance. Rochester community in general? —^" _?!*** "'^s »»»out the poDular „„.„„ hemg, both in the gav communitv anH ,h^ teach music, and had undergraduate and nationally, and our vocal sound is on par or Cotning out is something that individuals Our other premieres were of three songs CC: 1 think there's a very faithful group graduate degrees in music education, but I a littie above. We*re one of thc most im find very hard, and the chorus members also based on "A Shropshire Lad." composed by within thc Rochester gay community, which hadn*t done any conducting before the aginative choruses. Choruses now use sign have to face that, in regards to media Mark WiUiams, and '"Ibo Many Waltzes." by orcsenr ffv#. i^^^i '^"-toie tne Chorus to may not be a very large percentage of the Chorus came along. Since then Tve taken ing for the hearing impaired as a standard attention—seeing yourself on TV or walk Stephen Paulis. We did that in Minneapolis S^^^atkmi^ concerts. Have the dates community. Thc pavilion is aiways fiill when many classes, but 1 basically leamed by trial Wc may not have done it first, but we in ing out on a suge as an openly gay person. and the rehearsals were difHcult, to say the wc sing at thc picnic, but lots of people and error in thc beginning. troduced it. It's a very interesting, time-consuming and least! i« «- u. L *PP«u1ng at thc Lilac Festival ^^^^'^ ^^^ ^^"^'^ pavilion! I lost a relationship because of thc EC: Whose idea was that? emotional process, and it's ongoing. EC: Is therc anything you'd like to add? Chorus—jealousy of the Chorus was one AW; Terry Johnson, who is an interpater We've never had a negative incident at a NW: I want to reassure that though I'm a sum^f ? '" ^"'^ ^*= =^*° hope to do Y'' ^"^^ ^'^^'^'" ^^^^estcr among othcr^. part of that. I vc changed my /ob because of suggested that. Nationally, I have no qualms concert, and I've heard of many positive in leaving, the Chorus is a strong and healthy The?.^ *"'*' '^''"*'^" « Highland Bowl '^"^ <^onccrts arc attended by a mixed au- thc Chorus. It has changed my outlook in about what we're doing as a chorus. We re cidents. Audiences are very supportive, and entity, and I look forward to many years of ^iVn^^ '"^^ concerts havent been deter- '^'''"^^^ including many heterosexuals And terms of where 1 want to go with my career in high demand for exchange concerts with wc have a following in thc heterosexual com good music and exciting changes and mined yct^ there are lots of faithful lesbians and suppor- 1 plan on leaving Rochester in a couple of others. Wc chose Toronto this year because munity. That's the purpose of the decen growth, as the new director molds the comrnoTr*"'*''''''^'''''^^''P^rfornianccs !*^^. non-gays from all over upstate New years to study conducting. I have a great love of its proximity, which makes the trip less tralization grant—so that we can try to reach chorus in his or her image. It opens up a commg up too. On March 24 well be per ^"^^^ of choral music. Christmas is one of my expensive. people we haven't performed for. whole new door. formmg at SUNY Oswego, under ^e ' *cc the Chorus's role as dualin nature, favorite holidays because it's so chorally EC: How do you raise funds? I should also mention our commission auspices of thc Gay and Lesbian Student ^"'^ '^'* *^^" '^^t way from the beginning oriented? JVW: We get grants, such as the decen and premieres. Wc commissioned one work, Association. On April 1 we'll take pan in a '* * musical and also political, since an ongo- EC: When and how did thc Chorus get tralization grants, and other income comes from Robert May, a student at Eastman. It is tunaraiser at Temple Brith Kodesh. And in '"^^ ^'"^ h^» ^cn to do something for thc Started? from donations and ticket sales We called "Smiling, Breathing and Striding," and Rehearsing a dance number. "Ml ^nl^ ^^'" ^ Playing thc part of thc community, and provide good role models NW: It Started in November 1982, and was sometimes hold fundraising drives for is based on the Eastem philosophy that these Male Chorus' in Offenbach's Kiityo//fo7r- '^'* people coming out, who may be in- founded by a man named Kent Peterson, special events, Hke the SeaitlcA^ancouver are the three components ofthe human soul. mann at the Eastman Theater with thc ^''"'^^^cd by bars. Seeing gay men accepted who had lived in Wisconsin and been involv trip. And our donations to Helping People It's a neat work, scored for men's voices and Eastman Philharmonic. The Chorus will ,ust ^^ ^ ™^^^ audience is something very good ed with a chorus there. So when he moved with AIDS and other charities come out of percussion. It's esoteric, but that's thc sort he singing at thc beginning and end of the ^^^ ^^^^*^ "^^^ ^'^ coming out. And the to Rochester, he formed a chorus here. He ticket sales. of thing I like, and it fit right in with what opera. So we're feeling excited about that ^^<^^^ a^so f^l^^ a roic rcprcsenting the gay left town not long afterwards, but the I wanted to do. EC: What do you see as the function of Wc will also be doing a double concert community to Rochester, Chorus has just kept on growing. thc Chorus? with the Toronto Gay Men's Chorus at ^^ course, the Chorus also has a social EC: What changes have you made in the Nazarcth on June 2. Then at thc end of June ^""ction for the members. And we arc able NW: The function of the Chorus is as a repertoire over thc past eight years, and how source of pride. There are so many things we U be going to Toronto to appear with the '" ^^^^ ^''^ fundraising for community do you see the chorus evolving musically in happening in the community that are Chorus again in honor of Gay Pride Day ^^^P^^ including AIDS benefits. thc future?. depressing and negative, with AIDS, EC: What have some of the hichlichis ^^ ^^^' draws men to become pan of NW: There've been a lot of changes. At homophobia, gay-bashing. It's so nice to been over thc yeare? fhe Chorus? thc beginning the group's choral ability was have something gay-oriented that is good CC Some of the greatest memories are S^J ^^*^ ""^ "* /"^t like to sing. Those small. Wc started with two or thrce-part and happy. W^ need political activism in the o„f. th.--c- GAL—-«.mA ChoruV.1JWIUs9 removalFestivals wwe'vc ve Dccbeen "^^^ ^*^" ' ^^ non-singing members, thc B music, which was easy to sing. We've now community, but we also need an outlet part ofc, in Minneapolis in 1986 and in Seat Sharps. One of thc goals of the ne^ board done eight and even 32-part music, which where we can enjoy ourselves and take tle this past year. The latter trip was com is to strengthen that support group. The is very hard. We commissioned a work, and pride. bined with an appearance in V^couver with singers like performing together and havinc have held several worid premieres of pieces. thc Choruses from Vancouver and people laugh and applaud. Wfe love thc trips Rochester is a very musical city, and a lot We're going through a struggle right now to of people here are interested in music and Washington DC. Wc all sang in the Or- and also find the work fulfilling for political decide on a future direction. I'm hoping the phcum, Vancouver's version ofthe Eastman. reasons. culturc. We try to research music, and recent Chorus will be a choral group with emphasis ly found Dudley Buck's 5/. Olafs Christmas, (GALA, by the way, stands for Gay and Les EC: What else docs the future hold? on music, rather than on showmanship. bian Association). CC: We're looking not only for a new which hadn't been performed for years. £C; How many men are in the Chorus musical director, but aiso a new principle ac- EC: How does the Chorus compare with Men's choral literature was popular in rhe T'X^X now, and do you have any plans for e<,mp^n,s^ Wt// cononuc siinino^.^ gay men*s choruses around the country, as mid to late 1900's. and then the music was expansion? song. That has bccon^c a naTonS ^^ far as siae, professionalism, etc.? put away in the early 20rh century and CC There arc between 35 and 40 now. which we srarted in Minneapolis, when we NW: There has been a high degree of hasn't been revived until now. Wc have a new board of directors, which will did a signed version of "Kumbaya " And musical knowkrdge among Chorus members, 1 sec our function in the straight com- be producing a five-year plan for the group. generally we're looking forward to con but not as high a degree of vocal knowledge. munity as one of outreach and education. There's a potential for change because Nick tinued growth and improvement. Lots of thc members have studied music, and Gay people aren't perverts and sexaholics, xv/ li ' 11 u :' •"'•^" ^"-"^'^ '^"CK EC^^: Nick^^^^ , IJ understand from Chuck that arc fine musicians. Only a handful have but normal, natural human beings. Music is Williams will be stepping down from the . . „ • i ^-^ r u i • studied voice, and we need more voice one way of showing rhe gay community in f_.,.. '^^ '^ . Jf, you vc been musical director from the begin- students ro improve technically. And we a non-threatening format Many gays use the Bruce leads a rehearsal. p,.st of musical director at the end of June. ' ^^^ ^^^^ ^ ^^ ^^^^ summer. What need to provide those men with music concerts to come out to their parents. They Nicli Willams conducts a rehearsal. .so we re developing critena for a new direc- ^ave been the most enjoyable and most dif- they're interested in singing. bring them to concerts so they can see what ror He-or she-shou/d have a good „ ^^ ^^^^,
Taxes Accounting Rochester Body Club IVIONROE CLASSIC ADVERTISING
109 Liberty Pole Way Info 987-5974 i[::s?i:;>--- WOMEN'S OPEN 24 HOURS • 7 DAYS A WEEK MOTORCYCLIST ER'^)LARG£SI| RESOul^E CEN^^R 76 East Street FOUNDATION 1» f'airport, New York Your Aroma Specialists AtetAistetter/Otnecton/ - The Festivd - The Video wmShiFT^ wi^BAm^stMu^mofmf 7LElfTAVE. featuring: (716) 388-0673 LBJIOT.HT 14402 SUB SLATE PHOIME & FAX: 716-359-3^83 PH: (7X61 7S8-II054 iiuiiy ::•]•*** ifiiji'ii'iiiiiiiiiiy^^^ GZlff SHEAR 90i BtM^ ^^^ PAH«oi^omv'm £ •stt RO0i^$TER,Nirf4«23 H^rd , ^an Scent ^are pouble Eagle We make you David A. Bischoping 'C3 C3 t:^ ^ "tiy^ look good on paper. •^ C3( CkS 5W)E ssnt Richard Fenwick Monday Night Rooins $8.00 ^ ^ -Y Period. erra CONTRACTORS Tuesday Night Lockers $3.00 Okier Home Specialists Wednesday is College Night Design • Drywall • Painting (CALL FOR INFO) «Words Unlmited» "We do it without shorts'' Carpeintry • Decks Roofing & Gutters Word Processing * Design/Printng Services Additions ©•^ N\\^^' SuVtc^ -K*-^^"^^ BushessA.egal Typing * Resumes * Letters * Dictation Transaction Residential & Commercial Ma*n Usts & Labels * Business Cards * Newsletters & Ryers Reports/Term Papers - Speciai Student Rates • FREE Estimates Repairs to full repiacement Saun a Any size Jobs at all NowoffBring • Fully Insured Free estimates Cai for Mormation/appcfitment Jhe Brihcby report. Call & leave message WHERE MEN MEET MEN JhobHhdaycard 325-1198 aitemative! X o *T"Trn,x-> •^WryrTKm-* ",, MMbC3t 1990 THE EMPTY CLOSET » THE EMPTY CLOSET MARCH 1990. Women's chorus focuses on conununity spirit By SheUy Kafferty interest in music/' said Deb Messmer. group, aims for the top 'Everyone is very supportive and helpful. 'Montage,' lesbian The Rochester Womens Community especially encouraging those who are new. Chorus is a delightful conglomerate of en- and have virtuaUy untrained voices. Initial By SheUy Kafljferty Just what that destination will be is not thusiastic talented women. I had the good shyness is quickly overcome as voices blend enjoys the strong lesbian identity of Mon mance as much as the music itself. Despite yet clear But membets of Rochester's gay fortune to eavesdrop at a recent rehearsal as to cieate really bcautifiil harmonies. It's a lot MoUy Berry, musical director of Moniagc tage. As a co-founder of the Rochester Les her background in vocal music ("a sideline the group prepared for their Feb. 18 of fun." sat down in my kitchen recemly and relax and straight communities will have the op bian Action Coalition (RLAC), she can mix in college' *), she's impressed with the portunity to enjoy Montage at two upcom fundraiser. g^^ pj^j^ j^ ^^^ ^^ ij^^ newest group ed. While this panicular activity C'felaxing") art and politics throu^ her association with technical challenges in the music Perry has may seem fiUrly easy for most of us, it re ing performances. On March 17, they will The rehearsal was held at Pinnacle Place, members. She plays the piano, dulcimer and the group. She summed up simply, *'It's great selected. "Music's been a part of everything join several groups in thc GAGV variety show quired a lot of effort from a woman who at I've ever done, from Girl Scouts to the 919 S. Chnton, where the Wednesday night guitar, but longed for thc company of others being in a group of beautiful lesbians mak at Calvary St. Andrews, and on May 19 they gatherings not only serve thc practice needs to share music with. 'The RWCC has been times seems driven and zealous about her ing beautiful sound." church choir. But Montage presents music in music. wili appear at the RLAC-sponsored Lesbian of the group, but also enliven this communi a very pleasant place to meet new women. More from the musical and stage tradi a newly challenging way for me. I look Faire at Nazareth College. ty residence for disabled persons and senior Molly Perry has a passion for music and around the group and see incredible strength It's a new experience singing in a group." tions, Bobbie Preston provides the first Monuge is an exciting addition to the citizens (needless to say, thc facility is fully a passion for perfection. She admits that soprano voice for the group. Her fame as a and ulent. I think that Montage is going to This year thc RWCC helped form the growing body of lesbian and gay performers accessible). musical backdrop for thc Take Back thc sometimes her zeal can suggest a conHict of local actress is evident at rehearsals—Bobbie go just as far as its members coUeaively want Started i in Rochester. Perhaps we'll see more emetg- Started in 1985 by Deborah Wachspress, Night march on Feb. 4. The group frequent- ifuerest within the group. **Thefe are times has the comedic timing that frequendy sends it to" who continues to act as musical director, the ing talent in our community. ,.w-ontion^«r^... ..»....»ol,!.«..». *u. ^^, includcs Standards from the women's when we're rehearsing that I'd like to cut group members into uncontrolled laughter. RWCC emphasizes community spirit, friend music repertoire, including songs by Holly loose--we laugh a tot su rehearsal—but I'm Preston's credits include playing Claudia ship, and a love of singing. Approximately Near and Chris Williamson. so focused on getting through the music that in Nuts and Emily Dickinson in The Belle of 15 women routinely participate in weekly 'The RWCC allows me to be a member I can't let myself go. It's difHcult wanting Amherst. She's committed to continuing to rehearsals and in concerts. of a group which wants to be connected to the Chorus at work. It wasn't like the The "^SRimen's Chorus at the Ikke Back both to have fun, and to have to be the enlarge her repertoire. "I'd hate to think that Though frequently linked with the 'heavy.' But for the most part. Montage is just because we're identified as a lesbian women's issues," said Chorus member Emi- musical experiences Td had in high school, thc Night raUy. photo by TL. Cvetan wholly focused on perfection. It's not just singing group, that we couldn't also sing Rochester Gay Men's Chorus in joint con- jy x f^^x we're working on issues of class when 1 worried that someone might actual mc. We work well together and everyone certs around town, including thc very ^^^\ race, too, and working to bring a ly hear my off-key, scratchy voice and make other kinds of music. We're excited about popular Gay Alliance summer picnic, thc seems to trust my judgement and musical women's music, but we're all looking for cohesive voice to bear in a consciousness- me sing along. I looked down thc line of knowledge." RWCC has emerged as a strong, clear, raising effort. Our spirit is to bring hope for chairs, and suddenly felt a part of the com ward to spirituals, folk songs, jazz, madrigals feminist voice that welcomes the participa That trust is wcU-invcsted; Molly Perry and Broadway! Wc can experiment with all all that we can make a change through munity. By thc time 1 sneaked out the door, tion of all women. music." not wanting to disturb thc singers, I wasn't knows her stuff. A ft>rmer student at Eastman forms.'' 1 was impa-sscd by the diversity of the School of Music and Ithaca College, Molly Second alto Lisa M. Delia Posta (whose Virtually every Chorus member I talked singing along. women who arrived for rehearsal, many of with expressed an interest in seeing thc But I was humming. sings second soprano. Additionally, she has voice Perry calls "a beautiful instrument") them clearly just getting in from the nine- directed adult and youth choirs, and various also hails from theatrical roots. She enjoys Clockwise from Chorus grow. Thc "more thc merrier" at to-five grind, in everything from jeans and titude has built a friendly camaraderie instrumental groups. performing for a broad spectrum of au upper rigbt: T-shirts to thrce-piccc suits and heels All of thc members of Montage arc ex diences. Though not politically active in thc within thc Chorus, and thc invitation to join Bobbie Preston, Long-time member Deb Griffith gave a is a standing one. perienced vocalists. Perry speaks with pride past, Delia Posta says that being in Montage quick overview of the RWCC mission: '*! about the pn>fessional quality of thc group's has brought her into contact with many Molly Perry, "We're looking to grow." said veteran Gillie really Uke thc idea of inviting all women to member Margaret, who has been part of Piano bar dj:a:ws stagework, presentation, and musical varie more women. "Since I started singing with join us. it's the joining together of women ty. When asked about thc group's potential, women. I've become more politically aware many acitvitics such as Take Back thc Night Waddington, in song that can be such a positive portrayal marches, pro-choice rallies, concerts and people together Marty Brown performing at Tua's. Perry responded 'Anything is possible, and involved in women's issues and causes. of strength and power. And so much can be because we're made up of talented, diverse I've had my consciousness raised— Marty Broum, community service projects. "There's a real By Martha Brown said in singing that can empower change, us spirit among us to be a warm, positive, Twelve years ago, Bud Wegman dreamed humorous lyrics, or this author singing pop women. We'll remain focused on perform thankfully! " Lisa delta well as be a mirror for what's happening." Gilly Waddington. first alto, is anything welcoming force in the community. It's a of owning a bar where gay people could be tunes straight from thc heart. ing quality music of all styles." Posta. As more women arrived for the rehear but politically unaware. For years she has safc space for gay and stmight women to join at home, talk with friends, have a good time, Tara's is an alternative bar meant for peo Popular locai musician Marty Brown, sal. 1 paid attcmion tt) Wachpress's virtuosi been active as an out lesbian working for gay together around music, and give back to thc and sing good music. Today, Buddy's dream ple who like to sing and entertain whose solo act can often be caught in a ty: simultanctjusly she played thc piano and rights, AIDS issues, the IVational Lesbian (photo by community" is still alive at Tara Cocktail Lounge. 153 themselves. One pianist feels that Tail's is variety of cocktail spots, echoed Perry's directed all tlie voice parts, with only one thoughts. "I'd like to sec MonUgc become Conference and numerous other causes. "I Shelly Rafferty) Service is seen as an integral part of the Liberty Pole Wa\', now owned by Renee Lip his link to the gay community, and that it's to three voices per part. It was not just her c:horus. The grt)up has been involved in pa and Buzzy Casslcman. Just like thc plan an integral part of his life. Another pianist thc hottest, most well-known lesbian guess, since I'm the oldest, 1 get to be the obvious ma.stcry of the musical, but her abili musical ensemble in thc country—our herstorian/' she said. "I'm from thc numerous benefits for the sick and elderly, tation in Gone witb the Wind, Tara's offers feels that Tara's is such a unique place for gay ty to cajole thc participants to "sing out" and has sung in hospitals and nursing homes. a stafcly atmosphere, complete with a grand people to gather, and that many surrounding potential is limitless. But that kind of suc midwest, and I've kind of follo^vcd thc which amazed mc. music festival trail across the U.S. to Thc next concert date is March 17, as part staircase ascending to the women's room, cities don't have the luxury of a gay piano cess can only be ours through hard work and Many mcmbcpi of thc Chorus are new this a commitment to excellence." Rochester, so I have a different perspective of thc GACiV benefit variety show at Calvary labelled "Scarlet." bar. I personally look forward to seeing thc year, but all seemed relaxed and easy singers. St. Andrews. And you'll be able to catch "regulars" every week who come to hear me Brown is the principal accompanist for than our other group members. I'm anxious Tara's is not just an ordinary gay bar. Au Most members have no formal voice train them at the GAOV picnic in July. sing. They've made mc a part of their fatni thc group, and occasionally chips in on the to see thc group succeed with both women's contrairc! Every Friday and Saturday night. ing. In a way, it's that which draws new By the time I'd finished my note-taking. Tara's becotnes a musical haven. On a good ly at Tara's too, and I've grown to love lots vocals. Her alto voice was also trained at thc music.and morc mainstream selections/' recruits. "Thc RWCC is a great outlatiormy K t*3rTOcr Cn^t&\\ and clraunna Teacher, 'NV^Ad- »sH»PtfLd/o> ^mnmmm^dl0^»99mmmm0mt^ mwt; WW m^ «mmm mm tflffWM M•IIWHWIiliP^WHgPW"«w*"i' " I I li ni^mnnrnnmrni c«&ucaiion may^r. ^V%c is poUticadly active, and din^ton envoys thc theatrical side of perfor- bar tor SL \>\oc:k a'way. "W\aiv"-i I>«:*;-AVA>HS
Rochester gay & lesbian movement ^'L DelU Lambda received much media atten Invisible or simply ignored? tion. According to their constitution, their goals were to '**pn>nioie awareness of grows and evolves over two decades women's, minorities* and gay Issues on cam A Black lesbian^s point ofvietv pus and in the community.*' By Jeff Lehigh On April 14, 1978. the Brockport Gay X^lunteers at the showing wore white, and By Candas 1. Barnes I am a Black lesbian. For some this might The third pan In our series on gay and Freedom League held afl unusual, evcm. Na most carried small boxes of tissue which Another orgariiwitlon u^ng the symbol Is '\ . .invisibility, which goes beyond seem an impossibility. YouVe never seen a lesbian history continues, witfa a look at the tional Gay Bluejeans Day. Studems at SUNY went quickly, since many wept openly at this t^ Lambda Rising BoottXi^ort. A narional anything that either Black men or white Black lesbian, right? Wrong. You probably Perpetrators of (homophobia) ... will not stop to *70s through the '80s, and what has occured Brockport and other area colleges had to display of only a small portion of the Quilt. publication originating from ^iV^hington women experience and tell ahout in their ignored one the last time you went to Rosie's in the past 20 years. dedtiie if they wcrc going to wear blue feans The Quilt filled most of the gym floor, with D.C, it Is a bi-monthly tiewspaper with writing, is one reason it is so difHcult for me. or Libeny or to some other gathering place check if the lesbian or gay man they hate is The Gay Libenuion Front of Rochester or dress slacks. National Bluejeans Day had walkways around each group of panels, as reviews of gay and lesbian books. to know where to start. . ." or social event for lesbians andA>r gay men. been an annual event at Florida State and Horace Lethbridge, Gay Alliance secretary founded the Empty Closet in J^nustry 197L well as covering the walls and hanging from Knowing where to start was a problem As hard as it was for me to believe, there Michigan State Universities at the time. The and counselor at the ^Rifrilesley Center, had Black or white. They will hate each of us The first issue was pamphlet-sized, and the ceiling. for me every time I tried to begin this arti arc people who move through the world on day was used to urge students to support gay this to say about the lambda in an earlier in following issues were single sheets with cle. The above quoutlon fn>m Barbara a daily basis and never consider, or even ri^ts. and show their stipport by wearing A month later, Rochester experienced its terview*. **Tbe lambda, as I understand it. equally I believe we should love each of us just news and information about meetings and first Gay and Lesbian l^ride March, which Smith's landmark essay **Towards a Black notice, the existence of people like myself, blue leans. goes back to early days. And It^s tying us in other community concems of the time. marked the 20th anniversary of the Feminist Criticism" (published in Condi who look different—at least not imtil they as equally ... Not when it is politically correct to with a more libcnttcd culture of the distant The GLF. housed at the University of A large event, the Rally for Rights, was Stonewall riots in New York City. Vfell over tions 2, 1977), gives voice to something do something "radical** or **blatant." There past." Rochester at 201 Todd Union, River Station, held at Genesee Crossroads Park on Sepc. 24, 300 people marched on June 28 from which has troubled me since my arrival in are those who claim they promote equality seek the "Black lesbian*'perspective. Not became the Gay Alliance of the Genesee 1978. The ofBcial count was about 800 gays, Genesee Crossroads Park to the Liberty Pole, Since the lambda was adopted by the Gay Rochester. and justice for all, but categorically deny the Valley in June 1973, and moved to 812 lesbians, and supponers. Leonard MaUovich, whete a rally was held with speakers and Activists Alliance, the symbol has been main existence of members of their subculture because of anything other than decency ... ly seen either In names of gay groups, or as 1 moved here to become a student at the Brown St. At this point the EC was a bi a former Air Force sergeant who had been entertainment. Rochester Institute of Technology, after liv who are not white and/or male. There are weekly four pagc newsletter. The December dischaiged from the military when he came a piece of jewelry. The symbol, much like those who could, and have, allowed me to This year marks the 21st anniversary of the pink triangle, or the color purple or ing for the past 28 years In VC^hington, D.C. 1975 issue was thicker, with two pieces of out, spoke at the rally. His story appeared Stonewall. Since Stonewall, the begintiing of Shonly after arriving, I began to feel enter a room, walk down the street, or even paper, making eight pages of news. in Time magazine that same year. lavender, goes iar back in history. The lamb to greet them, and looked through me as if the gay liberation movement, has come of da, however, as a symbol for gay men and something was wrong. As I walked around In April 1974, the Alliance and the EC The Rally for Rights was held in response age, shouldn't New York state move with the campus, through the city, visited the lesbian I were not present. it was because I was Black. I looked for any 1989 and has yet to be anthologized or given to the appearance of Anita Bryant at thc lesbians, has softened a bit and will go un What has been most difficult for me to other rieason I could find to excuse it recognition by any but her Black sisters. This moved to thc Genesee Co-op, 713 Monroe times as we enter the Gay '90s? noticed by people who do not know what and gay bars, this feeling never left me. I at Ave. (Both thc Alliance and the newspaper Dome Arena in the Monroe County In the fourth and final pan of this series, tempted to write about it in my joumai and deal with about this situation was the fact "Maybe it's 'cuz I'm new in town and no is ironic in light of Parker's words in "Where Fairgrounds. Bryant had been campaigning the symbol is, or what it has come to signify. that 1 had spent over 10 years developing a recognizes me" (I know how we can be WiH You Be?" {Conditions 5, 1977): will be leaving thc Co-op soon for a new wc will look toward the future, and examine It is important for us to know and to didn't "know where to surt," and I ex home at 179 Atlantic Ave.) against gay rights for two years in Dade some of thc goals wc hope to reach before perienced great frustration trying to give ' network in Washington which insulated me about accepting strangers). "Maybe it's 'cuz . . . tbey tvill come/because tve arekiefln- County Fla. When a reporter asked if Bryant preserve our history so that we, as the gay from the racism and homophobia of the les I wear glasses." "Maybe it's cuz my hair is ed as opposite— /perverse/and tve are Both thc Oay AUiance and the Etnpty thc end of the decade. community, can grow, and help ourselves voice to thc loss of balance I felt. Closet have come a long way from their thought that homosexuality was contagious, It wasn't until I had been in Rochester for bian and gay community in that town. braided." I looked for any excuse I could perverse/. . and tbey tvill come./Tbey tvill she replied "No, but I believe it's a learned and others understand where wc are now, Washington is the home of one of America's fi"
MARCH 1990 THE EMPTY CLOSET 13 12 THE EMPTY CLOSET MARCH 1990 THURSDAY FRIDAY 22 30 MONDAY SATURDAY Lecture and discussion. ^'Building Suzanne Justice, poetry. Wild Seeds THURSDAY SATURDAY a Strong Health and Safety Committee." Bookstore and Cafe, 704 University 10 sponsored by Rochester Council on Oc- Ave. Free, 8:30 pm. 17 cupatioftal Safety and Health Spring Retreat: Peace, Love, and a Lambda Legal I>elense and Educa Richaid Ekyvlch and Sande Zelg. 15 MARCH (ROCOSH). 7 pm, ROCOSH office, Sound Mind. Lead by Gail Ricciuti and tion Fund. Talk by Thomas Stoddard An evening of theater, 8 pm. Dance Cir Out and About banquet. Call Empty Cl«>set copy deadline. Ar 797 Elmwood Ave. Registration Rose Mitchell, co-pastors, Downtown The Gay AlHance of Genesee and Paula Ettelbrick of Lambda on cle. 328 East State St. (^bove TG 473-9384. ticles, letters, camera-ready ads. deadline Mar 15; workshop fee $5. Cal United Presbyterian Church. Keuka Col Valley (GAGV) Is locaied in the **A!DS and the Law" (6:30 pm) and Millcr*s), Ithaca. Tkkets on sikling scale, Variety Show. BenefH for Cjay Alliance 2449030. 244-0420. lege. Penn >&n. 7 pm Mar 30 to 2 pm Genesee Co-Op^ 713 Monroe "Domestic ftirtnershlps for the Gay and $7-$12 (suggested price $10). available Jewish Responses to AIDS. of Genesee Valley. 8 pm. Calvary St. Arnircws Church, comer of Ashland and Mar 31. Cost $32 per person, ftegistra- Ave., upslairs on the left side of Lesbian Community'* (7:30 pm). First at Borealis and Smedley's, Ithaca. Workshop at Jewish Community Center, A«rill. Featuring Montage (lesbian vocal tion deadline Mar. 15. CaU 325-4000. •he building, f^eer facilHalora Presbyterian Church, State & Willett Open house, AIDS Rochester. 20 1200 Edgewood Ave. Guest speaker group), the Rochettes (Rochester Ciay FRIDAY hoHine, Sunday-Friday 7-9:30 pm, Sts., Albany. University Ave. Rabbi Voel H. Kahn. 7:30 pm. Men's Chorus tap troupe), Rochester 244-8640. 461-2000. Women's Community Chorus. Lesbian 23 Bonnie Abrams will perform ''songs for our times" at the WEDNESDAY Writers' Group 436-9085. SATURDAY International Women's Day evening event. See Sat*, March 4. FRIDAY Out. and About culturat evening with S UND A Y FRIDAY movie- Call 4719384, 1 Lesbian parunling 9>^o«p^ kx cur Potluck dinner and drop-in social for S«linoi«|o. LaSn poetry and music* Wocfcestmw Gay MaisV ONMVS in 2 11 16 SUNDAY 8 pm. First ar»d third Sunday. rent and prospective mothers. Fourth people with AIDS and ARC HIV- Soup-Sandwich-Sludy. Supper and Wild Seeds Bcokstexe and cafe; 704 cancert at Temple Brith Kodesh.. 2l3t University Ak«. 8:30 pm. free. 244-8640. Tuesday. 385-4496. positives and their frtends. kivers and Joanne Casey; original acoustic WikI discussion sponsored by Dignity/Integri Rochesier Bisexual Ufomen's Net- Rochester Historical Bowling ElmwoodRd., 3pm. 1R>benefttE>hk>- Seeds Booksk>re and Cafe. 704 Univer 18 Cay Men's Alcoholics supporters. Christ Church. 141 East ty, 7 pm. St. LukeVSt. Simon's «vork and Bisexual Men's Groupi Society. "Luck of the Irish" no-tap pian Jews. 244-7060. sity Ave. Free. 8:30 pm. Anonymous. St. LukeVSt. Stmon At/e., 7-9 pm. Bririgadishtopassifyou Church, 17t N. FHzhugh St. First joint meeting. All bisexuals doubles bowling event. 8:30 pm, Cbver Lambda Amateur Radio Club Lanes. 2750 Monroe Ave. branch. Anyone iaterested in shor^Aove SATURDAY Cyrene Church, 17 S Fitzhugh St WEDNESDAY can. Third ThursdayL welcome, whether group members or 8:30 pm. 232-6720. SATURDAY not. Bring a dish to pass. 7 pm. Call Chan McKenzie and liMl Matocha, listening or amateur radio welcome. For 24 Gays, L^sl^ians, Blseximb and ^^' THURSDAY 436-7409 for kxatton. poetry. Wild Seeds Bookstore and Cafe. location and Hme call 359-3337. ONGOING ftochester Wbmen's Comniunity Friends Association (GLBFA) ot the 3 704 University Ave. ASL interpreted. EmpAy Closet layout and paste-up oi SUNDAY MONDAY Clionts, rehearsals. Pinnacle Place, University of flochester has a confiden 8 Free. the April issue. Noon to 5 pm. 713 919 S Clinton A«.. 6:30-8:30 p.m. tial peer counseling and information Alison Bechdel. SUdeshow and talk WEDNESDAY Rochesier Lesbian Action Coali hoHine on Thursday nights between 8-11 Pride March. Meeting to organize Monroe ^we. (Upstairs in back of More Light Support Group for gay Gay Alliance board of directors by the creator of "Dykes To Wateh Out tion, Gay Alliance lounge, 713 Monroe pm. 275-8341. 1990 Gay, Lesbian Bisexual Pride building). 244-9030. and lesbian people and friends. 12:30 meeting. Cay Alliance. 7 pm. Second For*' comk: ship. 8 pm. Women's Com 14 Awe., 7 pm. Accessible. Third Monday. Gay Alcoholics Anonymous, St. March, 6 pm at GACV Lounge, 713 Rochester Rangers benefit for pm, Downtown United Presbyterian Wednesday. 244-8640. munity Building. 1(X) W. Seneca, Tanya, 256-1202. LukeVSt. Simon Cyrerw Church, 17 S Monroe Ave. All welcome. 473-9948. Soup-Santhvich-Study. Supper and Rochester Area Multiple Sclerosis, An Church, 121 N. Fitzhugh St. Mending Hearts. AIDS bereavement Ithaca. Sponsored by Crone*s Home Friends Support Croup. sponsored discussion, sponsored by Dignity/In thony's 522. 8 pm. 647-9613. 325-4000. support group. 7:30 pm, Our Lady of Fitzhugh St., 8:30 p.m. 232-6720. Productions. In Rochester, call by AIDS Rochester Inc. for friends of Rochester Historical Bowling tegrity, 7 pm, St. Luke^s/St. Simon's Parents and Friends off Lesbians Victory Church. 210 Pleasant St. 271-6919. FRIDAY people with AIDS or ARC or who are Society, Clover Lanes. 2750 Monroe Church. 17 N. Fitzhugh St. and Gays» St. Luke's-St. Simon Cyrene 671-3777 or 248-3780. IntemaHonal Women's Day. Free HIV positive. AIDS Rochester, 20 Lesbian Resource Center, Gay Ave-, 8:30 pm. 654-6461. 9 SUNDAY Church, 17 S. Frtzhugh St., 2:30 pm. University Ave., 7:30 pm. Second and workshops at thc YWCA, 75 N. Clin Last Sunday. 865-0120. Alliance, 7:30 pm. First and third ton Ave. 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. Even fourth Monday. 232-3580. Folk Cafe, featuring llisa Berman and 25 Dignity/Integrity, St. Luke'sSt. Wednesdays. 244-8640. ing entertainment featuring Bonnie *iiBM^ Gay Women's Alcohoiics SATURDAY Kathy Padvano. Wild Seeds Bookstore Simon Cyrene Church, 17 S Fitzhugh Abrams at thc YWCA at 8 pm. Cal! Empty Closet layout and paste-up of Anonymous, St. Luke's-St. Simon and Cale, 704 Univerwty Awe. 8:30 pm. St.. 5 p-m. 328-9758. 325-2560. April issue. Noon to 5 p.m.. 713 Cyrene Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St.. 8 THURSDAY f*'^>-<:^><^v^^>'^p^>«et >><««* ^^^^ free. Metropolitan Community Church, B-O-O-K-S Monroe Ave., upstairs in back of pm. 232-6720. '•' Genesee Hospital. 224 Alexander St. Open House at AIDS Rochester. 20 243 Rosedale St.. 6 p.m- 271-8478. Gay/Lesbian Al-Anon, First 1 building. 244-9030. Presliylerlans for Lesbian and Gay University Ave. Gays, lesbians, Bisexuals and Unitarian Church. 220 S. Winton Rd., SUNDAY Dedication of John Washbum Concerns, Third Presbyterian Church, Friends Association (GLBFA) of the 7 p.m. Library, Community Health Network, TUESDAY 4 Meigs St. (comer of East Aie.) 6:30 University of Rochester holds meetings Gay Alcoholics Anonymous, First 758 South Ave. 244-9000. pm. First Thursday. each Sunday 3t the River Campus, Rochester Lesbian and Gay EDGE (Educalfaig tfie Disabled in Unitarian Church. 220 S. Winton Rd.. March Madness: a male review, a Meliora Building. Room 418. at 7:30 IWltical Caucus, Gay AlliarKe, 7 pm. a Gay Envinonmtnl), Second and 7 pm. GAC\/ fundraiser, sponsored by thc WEDNESDAY pm. 275-9379. Second Tuesday. 244-8640. lourlh Thursdays For tinte and pbce call Rochester Rams Bar Niglit. Every Mcn*s Group at thc new Bachelor — II -H^ •IPI.I—••- I •-!• Rochesier Bisexual Women's Net- ftochester Rangers social club, 381-0739. third Saturday. Bachetor Forum. 8 pm-2 Forum, comer of Allantk; and Universi iworfc meeting and potkick supper. 6:30 business meeting, 8 pm. Secornf am. 325-6930. ty. 9 pm, $5 at thc door. 28 pm. Second Sunday. Locatton, info: Tuesday. Affirmation, gay/lesbian Mormons. VIDEO Sou|>Saadwich-SlHdy. Supper and 244 7159. ftoches«er Gay Men's Chorus* 544-0043. discussion sponsored by Dignity/Integri Gay Men's Cooking Groups 7:30 -Cavalry St. Andrews Church. 68 ty. 7 f*n. ^v Ube;f^ SH^^ ^^'^bfirth Sundays'244-8640 AsWandSr. #9SAt«rittAM*.. 7:30pm. 1 OF YOURSELF. REMTALS .1 ... j "1 Cook A^ccountliig Services FRIEND, PET OR EVEN YOUR House The Gay Attkoice Of tfeie Rosie's Accounting & Income A PERFECT KEEPSAKE. Genesee l^t^ey ^vmdd liiie to Michael Chia^a Tax Preparation 633 Monroe Ave. thanic everyone who made New MiUer GaUery the auction a success, (1 block west of Oxfixd) Jack Greco Antiques CML 544-5396 including: Personal Partnerships 473-«ll0 Marvin Ritzenthaler Businesses Corporations Mike Costelio Standard Deviation Friday Brighton Hair Design Emily Joseph McKenna liS-l^lA Michael Corsi Posters Rochester Club Restaurant Kathy ReUly & Howard Kilbury Canopy's Restaurant J Ramona feminist * multiculturaJ vegetarian GeVa Theatre Bob Moore Archimage lesbiaa and gay rme*TiMftTg ## «£^/„. 1>0NT UT VOUK X^lN^Y
11'--'^. i£ir-^.'v.^'.*r'--.4^. - • .-^V-*'" •^•*fmtSmmk^mr.-~^,~,,•m. V •-».*s'-i->iai*.i, », _ ••,• -*ow«.«P-«^**-1«?'^''-> .-•V'--.*fJ
14 THE EMPTY CLOSET MARCH 1990 MARCH 1990 THE EMPtY CLOSET 15 thc crisis is over, but It isn't. Vtfc need co keep Letters— continued pom page 3 Lesbian dance group "People who live this experience daily based oiganizations; $4 million to provide discriminate against gay men and lesbians. pounding the pavement out there." would be the ones doing the talkitig, and the In a letter dated Jan. 30, Lobby Executive quests to appoint a special prosecutor to a lb the Editors fellowships for health care professicmals to And they succeeded! How many more ex Bill Vdenti said, "I read the letter in the people who have the power of decisicm Director Ikra Quillinan outlined Staten cnminal justice review panel, which is ex Vtfc alteady have two womyn's chorus add incemlve for working in HIV care; an ceptions to the Human Rights law are to February issue, and its points arc well taken. would just listen. This might help the com Island District Attorney John Murphy's op pected to make its recommendadon sooo. Home rule groups herc. \5fc want something new and additional f 1 million for self-help groups, come? And what about domestic partticr Agencies which deal with HIV problems munity to understand the scope of the pro position to Cuomo's proposed bias-related Cuomo will then decide whether or not to different. Why don't we have a lesbian dance clinical programs for children experiencing forD.C benefits? If city council approves this, what need to work together The political climate blem, the potential for what could amount violence bill, and his leniency In dealing follow thc panel's recommendation. group? I have been thinking about having a the death of a family member due to AIDS will Congress do? sometimes gets in the way. Paperwork takes to genocide of minority youth, and the with the two perpetrators previously in New York City ComptroUer Elizabeth lb thc Editor new group in which wc could enjoy up too much time; wc are too process- and other mental health and risk reduction ancMher case ;^ainst a gay man. Holtzman denounced violence against les It*s been over three years since I left thc In short, we need your help on two potential for serious eccmomic conse and prevention programs, lb identify your fronts. When members of Congrcss try to dancing. oriented. We're drowning in paper here. quences of the epidemic There needs to be The New York City Gay and LesUan Antl- bians and gays, and caUed on die State ? long, harsh winters of Rochester for thc Are you interested in a lesbian dance "There have been comments about mc senator or assemblymember, call VioIeiKe Project has accused D.A. Murphy L^slaturc to pass die anti-bias bill, at a warmer climate of V(^bington D.C. Tvc vote against the interests of gays and lesbians a group to ccxmUiute activities, that doesn't 1-800-836-6975. in Washington, they think they're getting a group? Conuct mc at 442-3927 through being on the AIDS Rochester board and at fell Into categories of 'Black coimnunity,' of offering Za^ypaloni's accused killefs, •^^"^al service for ZappalorU on Feb, 4. learned a great deal about our nation's -Some information from Mary Ellin Arch free ride. They think they can step on us, New York State Relay. 1-800-421-1220, in CHN, and about how this represents a con 'Hispanic community,* 'gay community.*" Ikylor and Sario, an overiy leniem plea- we must make our society undeistand capital In that time. Despite its relatively in the Times-Union. make a few polittcal points with the evenings. flict of interest, lb me, it's just another way Rivera continued, "One project that ABC baigaln agreement in 1986, when they were the awfiil consequences of homophobia and recently acquired feputatlon as a center of Karen Kingrey, Rociiester Wgotry of every kind." Holtzman said. "Wfe homophobes, and no one in their districts of dealing with the problems. Personalities has underway is the Adolescents' Resource State * locai news — cont'd, firom page 3 arrested in another gay attack. In that inci crime and drugs, (Mayor Barry *s travails in get in the way of the problems, and we tend dent, the two men were chaiged with kid must make people understand that cluded), \(^i^ington really does have many will care because they're not directly af Network, which would not cmly educate fected. I'm asking you to carc. AIDS — contintsed ftotn page 1 to drag our feet. We all need to re-focus and kids about AIDS, but also train them to be napping a gay man, forcing him into the homophobia is just as terrible as any other attributes. It is one of our nation's centers Ask prosecutor form of bigotry." Witch your senators and congresspeople "The original; efforts were grassit>ots. remind ourselves what the real problem is, paid health educators. Locally, bowever, trunk of his car, and attempting to ignite the of history and culture. It is also one of our and then join forces and do something about for say killing car. The atuckers received jail terms of less The killing has also drawn condemna nation's meccas for gay people. carefully. When they trample on D.C. Home Since 1983, the state Health i:>^>anment has those approaches wouldn't be fonded. The Rule, or cast an anti-gay vote, even if it only supported community service programs and it. county legislature will fond you. but they'll' The New York State Lesbian and Gay lob than two years. tions from Cardinal John J. O'Connor, who One of the reasons I moved here was the affects law in D.C. voice your displeasure. provided services for at-risk men. these ef "Competition for funds between different tell you that you can't talk about condoms. by (NYSLGL) and other activists have called "This crime, like the Howard Beach inci spoke at Zappaloni's foneral mass, and from knowledge that this city is hospitable to gay Mayor David Dinkins. Dinkins, however has Let them know that you care about these forts need to be continued. By 1990 the programs could be a problem. More coor So how concerned are we locally? The upon Gov. Mario Cuomo to a{^x>int a^pecial dent, calls for the appointment of a special people. The gay community here is latge, ac issues and are watching. Ibll your senators Depanment of Health will require contracts Catholic church that I've grown up in all my prosecutor in the Suten Island killing of prosecutor." said Quillinan. "Governor been criticized by gays for not attending the dination is needed, as well as major re funeral. tive, diverse, strong. There are well over 100 and representatives that you support from community service programs commit life is saying, you can't talk about condoms, James Za|^>aloni, a gay Vietnam veteran who Cuomo must Uke the lead in expressing the gay or lesbian-oriented social, religious, and thinking, and a moving beyond concems of statehood for D.C. Tell them that in a coun ting them to strategies for outreach and turf and politics. Bad feelings can happen, even though it may save lives. was murdered because of his sexual outrage of all New Yorkers to this murder." -Some information from Lou Chibbaro, political groups in the area, and the com Murphy told the Washington Blade, "I'm Jr.. Washington Blade, try which has led the world toward education to gay and bisexual men. in if one group feels shonchanged at another's "People seem to operate with the notion orienution, munity has been politically active for a democracy, colonial status for citizens of its regards to HIV, its transmission, and the im ready, willing and able to move ahead on this number of years, with a lot of success to expense. It's just a matter of deciding what that things aren't as bad as they really are." Zappaloni was stabbed and slashed by capital city is intolerable. portance of sustained risk reduction two assailants on a Statcn Island beach on case. I'm opposed to any efforts to replace show for its efforts. needs to be done and then doing it. Medical Rivera said. "Nobody seems to want to talk me. • The District of Columbia has been a behaviors. They want an innovative outreach services are available; it's a question of get Jan. 22. Michael Taylor, 20, has been charg The locally elected public officials seek about the increased heroin use on Clinton leader, and hopefully will continue to be. in to bookstores, bathhouses, shelters, bars, and ting all those people into care. Avenue, which had tapered off but is now ed with second-degree murder; Phillip Sarlo. Thomas Conroy. a spokesman for the and cultivate our support. Discriminaton in securing the rights of gay and lesbian peo truckstops. "There's a need for a friendly climate to in resurgence. If we in this area are follow ' 26, is stili at large. governor, said that Cuomo has referred re employment, housing, and public ac ple. But as long as we remain under the over "Also in 1990, the Depanment of Health get people tested and into medical care, and ing New York City's rise in AIDS cases, we comodations based on sexual onentation is sight of Congress, thc gay and lesbian com will conduct their own outreach to gay and sticking with it. And it's not just a medical won't be able to handle that. Wc need to res prohibited by the District of Columbia munity here will never be able to achieve all bi men,' CoweU said. "This campaign will problem. There's something for everyone to pond now, and I don't think we're doing Human Rights Act. The mayor has appointed that is possible. However, with your help, emphasize the benefits of knowing one's an do. Most people around town Ulk to each that. a number of openly gay men and lesbian TAKING BACK THE NIGHT! and the help of others across the nation, we tibody status, the rights of people with HIV other, and that's a sun. We need to work "We're struggling to sensitize the power women to his staff, and to various boards can achieve our goal—a new state, one in infection, the confidentiality proieaions in together and to minimize overlap of ser and commissions. The feasibility of holders to the situation, but our own com which lesbians and gay men enjoy equal civil volved in HIV counseling and testing pro vices.' ' munity leaders haven't been as responsible domestic partmrr becnfits for city employees rights, and full and equal protection under grams, .and the medical and psychosocial Gilda Perez of Puerto Rican Youth is currently being studied. And a bill to in as they should be. There's no question we the law. follow-up services available through those Development said. "The rise in AIDS cases, need government to set a direction, but in crease criminal penalities for violent crimes programs. and the possibility of funding problems motivated by bias against certain protected Bob Dardano, Washington D.C. the absence of that direction, people have "The DOH is also going to fund 10 might affect us in future. I see a lot of com- groups (including gay men and lesbians) to look after themselves* The IV drug user organizations serving the gay community to peition for resources. I don't think it's good recently passed thc city council. But there Bi -womsui community cant impact on govemment the develop ongoing research and educational for too may people to be knocking at the are problems here too—problems caused by way thc gay community did; they don't have campaigns which will foster safe-sex same door. That worries me. Overlapping of the system. They are problems you and gay seeks comfnimity the economic clout or influence. I don't behaviors on a sttstained basis, and offer cur services can also be a problem, but the more people across the country should be aware lb the Editor: think public policies are designed by rent clinical information. Thc campaigns people who get the information, the better. of. I wanted to let you know that I appreciate accident—they respond to pressure. We will include peer support groups and group Maybe we'll bump into each other, but at haven't been able to personalize this issue. To begin with, most people do not realize Tbe Empty Closet and all thc work that ob viously goes into it. counseling. least we're all together on this. "Why can't there be collaboration bet that the District of Columbia is not a sute. "Where will the funding come from? "We haven't seen any problems com ween gay and non-gay HIV people?" Rivera The District, which some people here call I live in a relatively small city outside Buf falo, which is a wretched place for straights That's one of the criticisms of the original municating and working with AIDS asked. "I read a quote from some *'the nation's last colony," was originally five-year plan: that deuils about funding are Rochester. There's a lot to be done on this anonymous gay men who said that AIDS carved out of the states of Maryland and to live, let alone gays, lesbians, or bisexuals (like myself) Thc drive to Buffalo really isn't • too fuzzy. In terms of gay and bi men, the issue, and we're still in diapers here. Rochester was initiated by and for them Virginia specifically for the purpose of hous AIDS Institute has put out an initiative Everybody's interested in helping, and that alone. So thc Black and Hispanic com ing the national govemment. That is the ci- wonh it, since all various gay and lesbian organizations refuse bisexuals entrance. targeting gay men of col«>r, the group which makes you keep on going." munities feel, chat's not for us. Black and ty/district's purpose as laid down in the V.S. Rudy Rivcta of Actton for a Better Com Reinft a twarried His-exual Mvoman. baf>0*- ^K** V»ccx\ most K«Klected. ttut only in the Hispanic agencies had seni piroplt Ui AIOS T4«rw YorK c:u.y area, not upstate. A similar munity's AIDS Education Program told the Rochester and didn't get services, so that im district. t'WO little ^ils, puts mc in a vccy smsdl. ,: pCQrgf^ cquld xmly happen here if AIDS £C "In my penonal opinion, there's no ques pression was reaffirmed. Gay white men are ^fcs, we do have a mayor ;3md city coun minority that may be
16 THE E»»TY CLOSET MARCH 1990
MARCH 1990 THE EMPTY CLOSET 17 Arts Talk Telling stories of survival in a harsh, dianging world Delicate By Melora Fleur is the go-between, the "hinge" bet rators' views ofthe ridiculous situations that JhtcJ^ by Louise Erdrich. New York: Holt. ween the people and the creature. It is occur, as they are both admitted gossips. provide escape 19S8, 226 pp. rumored that the men whose lives have There is mockery and himnor throughout. Native Americans have always revered somehow crossed hers have met with Yet we are left with thc feeling that people story tellers, people who could not oniy pass strange deaths. She has made one man dance here have made an attempt to survive and for tfae lovelorn along the old tales, but who could also with a pig. Another man who had saved her maintain their respect in a world which is By Dawn Slanec embellish them and make them exciting. from drowning grew afraid, and wouldn't go falling into chaos all aorund them. The im Wilderness 1¥ele by Dorothy Tfell, Naiac\n% LEAVE YOUR ANSWER IN . there. TO 8 OTHER MEN COMPLETE PRIVACY What's on at Visual Studies READY FOR YOUR TYPE OF ACTION NIGHT AND DAY! ON OUR NEW By Susan Jordan wax museums of Europe and Nonh America. LIKE HE \^JAS A HEU£yLVI^\ATA\-\oU^'^ Visual Studies Workshop, 31 Prince St., Wides observes how wax displays represent UViAOIOtitttmOKK ELECTRONIC MAIL BOX Gentlemen Witt present two exhibitions from March 9 mass culture, celebrities, history and myth. TIMMY LCX:>lCSHOT LM A fl'N FX^^k to May 4: photographs hy Edie Bresler and Her work questions thc nature of reality and Susan Wides. and 'Electronic Memoirs ' representation systems by reanimating the 1-900-234-2345 Edie Bresler's large, sharply focused col wax figures in their public environments. 1 •900«999«8500 Jwl75«amiftuu or photographs are dense collages which "Electronic Memoirs" is a video QAJ^"^ layer found objects, illusionistic paintings on retrospective of biographical and transparent surfaces, and the real wall and autobiographical works selected from NO- i yOUf-i /V-lblNTMEN/T BOOK HAD THIS windows of her New York City studio. The TV & Movies, a series of film, video and DAY RIPPEP CtT. collages create surreal visual mazes and computer-generated work by independent spatial illusions produced by the camera, anists and producers. The retrospective was LESBIAN LISTS rather than by human vision. curated by Elisa Sharpe, Visual Studies Susan Wides' color photographs are the Workshop Media Center programming 12 lesbian actresses result of five yeats spent photographing the assisunt. 11 acts of censorship 10 amazon treatises 9 Broadway euphemisms for the "L" word 8 lesbians on television XIO MORN'Ik',-JW££l STUFF?! 7 German lesbians IGCMO MORNING /'v'iiZyTJ 6 early black lesbian writers HOW'S APCX IT \OV MAKE US /i(SOt\L C('( FEE?IF you DON'T 5 lesbians and amazons on coins -• ' I MIND, IP LIKE TO SHOWER , 4 religious orders founded by nR3T.(,(fFee KLM THE uppity women 3 lesbians fighting for security clearance /M ;ALT]J^LLY.-TOPHER PIDTHATT 2 black women who cross-dressed THAT LITTLE:... 1 n(>lTKIMOW ^ ,.AN^\aAY,I THOUGHT WE'D KAKf A WHETHER TO KV^'b OR I^ILL Hlt^ 1 lesbian cc»uple in the bible AY 0FlT?Y'K(g0UJ,^ahikMAV6&;' LET ME HELP YOU .. and 100 more fascinating lists. MEET NEW LESBIAN LISTS BY DELL RICHARDS MEN IN YOUR AREA ! $8.95 in bookstores, or clip this ad to order by mail Q Enclosed is $10.00 (postpaid) {or one copy of LESBIAN USTS. ^ 1-800 address: state: MP'. ALYSON PUBLICATIONS 777-JVIENN Dept. P-92; 40 Plympton St, Boston, MA 02118 inO0R.SO YOUt HMt^V cou n D(^ BEDSPREAD Brf^C'-. SH^MOT JUST ANgTVER PRE-TTY FACE! . — r.>-.i»dn.„-,,^^M.- ... "».- T.-™^ - • J. , , .^.•^y.-•-•.•-•«.•J^•'^^*'•'^-•g^y^^fr•=^^^^!lt^t3>.•^^?^7••\;•;
•'^.•:'i^r,^^^'^m,^ri
18 THE feMPTY CLOSET MARCH 1990 MAICH 1990 THE EMFHTY CLOSET 19 Coluittiiists BlUnes: what is 'heterosexual priv anyway? By Betty Barcode Since my relationship with a woman I am wary and uncomfortable at the few of bis Very Important and very public work, malc-doniinaied relationship? Who doesn't came to an end last year, and Tve become het social events I do go to, wondering if this she called it shit. renwdcl herself to fit his needs, fantasies, or involved with a man, I've been sensitive to time someone will make a homophobic And so i avoid most straight couples, yet cxpecuiions? Perhaps I have an inflated GjroTvio.g ups sl9€ime remark, believing that none of "them" are 1 love a man. I will not spend this coliunn the issue of heterosexual privilege, the estimate ()f how well 1 put my- feminist ideals present. What subtle or blatant aas of male writing about how all men suck except for nothing but acceptance, make no demands. charge that women in straight relationships into pcaciice, but I know that there is little Of course I knew no Jews. I wasn't even expression. There is no Palestine for him. condescension will I witness, w^hat evidence my Johnny. I will say, heretically, that this By Eric Bellmann Conflicting anxieties prick at me. I feel I I find them grisly and charming. enjoy all sorts of "societal support" "socieul support" for the woman who does allowed to visil the homes of thc few of female compromise and self-negation will relationship is healthier than my last one, not subordinate herself to a man. Sunday, most of the time recently, I go should smile, or speak, or reach out to him, There is a wiry man in a blue parka who unavailable to women in lesbian I see? to church. A few years ago my Sunday ritual Catholics in our neighborhood. 1 read about relationships. with a woman. What 1 want to d ANOTHER. > AND ANOTHER. »J4< UNLIMITED TIME! TiliT M'LEBOX 8486 1-900-999-MANN a .99 per minute will appear on your phone bill LIVE ONE ON ONE WITH REMATCH « •**._! ^i^ 20 THE EMPTY CLOSET MARCH 1990 MARCH 1990 THE EMPTY CLOSET 21 on April 21 at 1 p.m. GREAT, also in the no- Bieaking Gay Groups BowUi^ Society entertaining to all who enjoy music, dance up doubles format, is being held as a fun Think of shamrocks, shillelaghs and draiser for the Community Health Network. the Ice and readings. Thc persons currently serving as board Tickets are 95 in advance and $7 at thc to our next meeting and jump right in. shades of green—what comes to mitid? St, The toumament is one of 39 regional members were elected or appointed for one- door, and can be purchased at Village Green, There's something for everyone to do, no NAYIM Patrick's Day, of course! The Rochester tournaments annually held throughout the Breaking the Ice, a support group for les Dignity-Integrity year terms. Thus all seats on the board are Wild Seeds, Paul's Grocery and Silkwood. matter what your interest. Our next meeting Hiscorical Bowling Society will be holding United States and Canada in affiliation with bians who arc newly out, or new to the Dignity/Integrity, thc worshipping com open for election, except the three reserv Remember, "it don't mean a thing if it ain't is March 19 at 7 p.m. in thc Gay Alliance Thc Jewish Community Center, 1200 a no*cap doubles bowling event on Mar l6 the Intemationai Gay Bowling Association Rochester community, is tentatively schedul munity of gay and lesbian Roman Catholics, ed permanendy for the Political Caucus, Les goc that swing." There's definitely swif% and lounge, 713 Monroe Edgewood Ave. will present a workshop on at 8:30 p.m., at Clover Lanes, 2750 Monroe (IGBO). As this is a regional toumament, ed for spring. Topics for discussion may in Episcopalians, and other Christians, observes bian Resource Center, and Men's Group. a whole lot more at this event, so celebrate Jewish responses to AIDS, on March 15 at Ave. This event, in honor of St. Patrick's Day. bowlers from Ibronto, Bufifolo, Pittsbuigh clude homophobia, relationships, and les the liturgical season of Lent with the theme, Nomioatiiig Committee Nominations: St. Patrick's Day thc only way. For more in 7:30 p.m. The workshop will pose thc ques wUl be the League's **Luck of the Irish" and other cities arc expected to attend. bian culture. It will be a great opportunity "Great Stories, Our Stories." Nominees for five seats with three-year formation, call 436-9085. Lambda Radio Club tion: as a loving and caring community, what night. Following the event, prizes will be award to talk about the issues that concern us, and During this reflective season our attempt terms ending in 1993 are Susan Cowell, are our moral and social respotisibilities? meet new people. If you arc interested in will be to connect our Hfe experiences with The first local get-together of the Lamb Robert Day, Betty D., Amie Pegish, and Paul The event is open to anyone who woutd ed at a banquet to be held April 21 at 7 p.m. The speaker for the evening will be Rab like to participate, whether they arc regular at the Hong Kong Restauram, 291 Alexander joining Breaking the Ice, call Colleen at thc message ofthe gospel. Some ofour ex da Amateur Radio Ctub will be a brunch on Scheib 671-3294. bi Yoel H. Kahn, Rabbi of Congregation league bowlers or not. A no-tap doubles St. Total cost for a bowler participating in Parents/FLAG periences provide rich stories; some are March 18. Please call 359-3337 ifyou would Nominees for five seats with two-year Sha*ar Zahan of San Fiancisco since 1985. tragic. Yet these all need to be brought out, like to attend or want ftu-ther information. terms ending in 1992 are Sally Borate, Robin event pairs two bowlers as a team, and any the tournament and attending the banquet Rabbi Kahirl Was pAit of thc Program Com- bowler who gets nine pins on the first ball will be $35. For more inionnation call Bob Owens, vice president of the Gay shared, and related to the Easter message of The Lambda Amateur Radio Club is an in L.. Claire Parker, Mark Siwiec. and Nancy W. mitteii. Social Sci€tice and Public Policy at Pride Match Alliance of Genesee Valley, will be thc guest hope and victory. Masses begin at 5 pm. ternational organization of gay and lesbian Nominees for six seats:.with one-year rolled counts it as a no-tap strike. The even 473-9948, or write the RHBS at P.O. Box the Sixth Intemationai Conference on AIDS ing will include prizes for the top bowlers 18613, Rochester N.Y. 14618. speaker at this month's Parcnts/FLAG each Sunday at St. Luke/St. Simon Cyrene amateur radio operators, short wave terms, ending in 1991, are Betsy Armes, C. iri San Francisco. He is also a member of thc The Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley meeting on March 25, at St Luke's-St. Simon Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St. listeners, and persons interested in radio G. Arthur, SheiUC., Joan Giuffre, John in the event, as well as fun and surprises for is planning the second annual Gay, Lesbian San Francisco Intcrreligious Coalition on all who participate. Cost will be 17 per Cyrene Church. 17 S. Fitzhugh St.. at 2:30 On March 18 at 6 p.m., following Mass, communications. Founded in 1975, the Straiid, and Ellen Yacknin. AIDS and ARC and a member of the UAHC and Bisexual Pride March for June 28. A p.m. the Italian Feast of St. Joseph's Day will be organization offers a sense of community to bowler, with part of the fees supponing the Rochester Rangers meeting to begin organizing the march will Nominees for five organizational seats are Committee on AIDS. prize fund for the event. Bobs ulk, **Lovc Makes a Family," wUl the theme of our potluck social hour All gay gay men and lesbians who share a common AIDS Rochester; Dignity/Integrity; Gay, Les be held at the GAGV lounge, 713 Monroe This program is co-sponsored by thc JCC In addition, the event will be a "practice" By Scott Zimmerman cover such topics as relationships, gay and and lesbian people, friends, and families are interest in amateur radio, and offers an bian, Bisexual and Friends Association of the and NAYIM (the group for gay and lesbian The Rochester Rangers will be holding a Ave., on Mar. 8, at 6 p.m. All members of thc lesbian families and parenting, and the latest invited to join with us for worship and social outreach program to help people obtain their University of Rochester; Helping People for the Greater Rochester Area Toumament community are invited to help plan thc Jews). The fee is $1.50 for JCC and NAYIM (GREAT), which will be held at Clover Lanes benefit for the Rochester Area Multiple research in that'area. All are welcome. activities. amateur radio license. Amateur radio is an With AIDS; Lesbian Parent Group; Open members and S3 for others. Sclerosis Association on March 24 at An march. For information call Paul Scheib at exciting hobby that offers something for 473-9948. Save Wednesday nights during Lent Arms Metropolitan Community Church, and For more information please contact Ann :# #: thony's 522, from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. everyone: local and world-wide conmfiunica- (March 7, 14, 28 and April 4) for "Soup- Out & Aboul. The two organizations with Weiss at the JCC, 461-2000, ext.260. Raffle tickets arc now on sale for $\ each, Sandwich-Study." After a soup and sandwich tions, computer-to-computcr message the largest number of votes will have three- or a book of six for $5. The prizes are: first supper from 7 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., an infor systems, amateur television, public .service, year terms, the nest two largest will have prize—VHS VCR; second prize—3 months of Montage contests and awards to name just a few. mal discussion until 8:30 p.m. will be led by two-year terms, and the fifth largest will 1990 Calendar cable including installation; third prize—a Montage, Rochester's newest lesbian a local professor/priest, on the topic "The have a one-year term. The Empty Closet is publishing a list of Michele Ibfany bottle of Dom Perignon champagne; founh ensemble, is sponsoring a Gay Alliance of the Evolution ofthe Liturgy." For further infor Men's Group Nominations by petition: The By-Laws fundraising and other events scheduled for Ed.D. N.C.C. prize —lunch for two; fifth prize—an FM Genesee Valley benefit variety show on mation about the location of the host's provide that individuals and organizations 1990, as a service to community groups Walkman radio. So get your tickets now. The March 17 at 8 p.m. at Calvary St. Andrew's home, please call 328-9758. On March 4, the Men's Group will pre may be nominated by petition signed by at wishing to plan events that will not conflict drawing will be at I a.m. and you need not Church, corner of Ashland and Averill. During the weekend of March 23. D/I has sent "March Madness: a Male Revue," at 9 least 10 members of the Alliance, and with any others. The complete 1990 calen be present to win. Groups appearing include Montage, the the privilege of hosting the regional meeting p.m. at the new Bachelor Forum, corner of delivered to the Alliance office not later than dar will be published only in this issue of Look for our ad in the April issue of Tbe Rochettes (the tap troupe of the Rochester of Dignity, Inc. Delegates from 14 chapters University and Atlantic Aves. The revue will the close of business Tbes., Mar 20. the EC. Please clip and save, or call 244-9030 Empty Closet for details on the Rochester Gay Mens Chorus), the Rochester Women's will be visiting Rochester for the purpose of be a fundraiser for the Gay Alliance Building Respectfully submitted, for information before you schedule your Offers: Individual • Couple Rangers* fifth anniversary party, to be held Community Chorus and the Lesbian Writer's discussing regional concerns, improving Drive. Harlow RusseU, for the Nominating event. Family • Group Counseling on April 22 at Mike's State Street Pub. Group. The evening promises to be fun and church/gay relations, and socializing. On March 11, the Men's Group Steering Committee March: see calendar on page 12. to persons living a gay, The March business meeting for the Everyone is invited to attend the special Mass Committee meets at 7:30 p.m. at the Gay April: Sat., April 28—GAGV annual Rochester Rangers will be held on March 13 beginning at 6:30 p.m. on March 24 at St Alliance, 713 Monroe Ave. At the meeting on meeting and dinner. Helping People with lesbian dr bisexual lifestyle at 8 p.m. at Tara Cocktail Lounge. Luke/St. Simon's. March 18, the group plans a discussion of Out and About AIDS Walkathon. If you have questions about purchasing prejudice in the gay community. Sun. April 29—-Gay and Lesbian Rights tickets or membership, call thc Rochester Lesbian Action Coalition The cooking group will meet on March As winter draws slowly to a close, and March in Albany. Ranger phone line at 647-9613. WELLESLEY 25. For reservations call 654-6461. with the promise of rising temperatures. Out It was erroneously suted in the February I he Kochester Lesbian Action Coalition Mon. April 30—Lobby Day in Albany. CENTER A Group for Jewish Gays The Men's Group holds regular meetings and About warms up with a portfolio of in May: Weds. May 2—GAGV benefit at ADJUSTABLE FEES issue of The Empty Closet that the Rochester is in thc midst of its busiest time yet! The door and outdoor activities. Each Saturday on thc first and third Saturday evenings of GEVA Theater (tentative). Rangers were to have a benefit in March for 442-2986 attd Lesbians constitution and by-laws are ready for group afternoon offers the chance of cross-country 458-0533 the Gay Alliance of Genesee Valley Building review; RLAC is sponsoring a workshop on each month, and offers various topics for Sun. May 13—AIDS Rochester benefit at discussion. A social hour follows, for tinie skiing in Mendon Ponds Park. Our annual Fund. The anicle should only have stated to "Coming Out and Coming Home" at Inter banquet will take place on the evening of "Whispers." to continue talking and to meet new friends. Sat. May 19—Lesbian Faire (RLAC) at look for upcoming details on a benefit to be Lesbian & Gay national Women's Day on March 3; and the March 17. A special cultural evening, in held by the Rochester Rangers on March 24 entire group is scurrying about, preparing Call 442-5117 for informsition. Nazareth College, i TRLjin * ^ cluding movie and optional dinner, is sla^teU at Anthony's 522. Therapists offer €«T tV^c Vje«fo%-xc\ KU^Vrc on May \9 al T4a2aretV\ for March 23. June: Mon. June 4—Care Cuts, AIDS OF fROaHESTTEfR OAOV nominations Rocbester fundraiser. inclividlua.1, couple & . Those whoTlke the wild side of life had group counseling in a RLAC is still looking for artists, per The current By-Laws ofthe Gay Alliance '.better reserve April 7; we will be white water Dates not determined—Gay Pride March, formers or groups who wish to display mer provide that the names of nominees for the AIDS Rochester Membership Drive Kick-off, discreet setting. rafting in Zoar Vallcyf We arc also trying to ^J^r" Happy to announce opening of new office location PASSOVER WITH US chandise or information, and we're in dire board of director seats will be published in drum up interest in attending the annual Dignity/Integrity garage sale. need of financial support. If you are ap the Empty Closet at least 30 days prior to the meeting of amateur radio operators in July: Sun. July 15—GAGV communiiy ^M Lesbian support group forming, please call if interested proached by an RLAC member to buy an ad annual meeting. This year's meeting has Dayton, Ohio, in hopes of forming a local picnic, Genesee Valley Park. ™ RUTH M. WILLIAMS, M.S. Ed. For more information: in the program, or participate in any way, been called for April 28. Newly elected or chapter of the Lambda Amateur Radio Club September: Sat. Sept. 15—Dining for Barbara Debes, M.S., CA.S. Beth Bloom 442-3363 please lend your support. This promises to appointed members of the board will be (gay and lesbian, of course!) Dollars (HPA), Midtown Plaza. Psychotherapist be a ma)or event, but we need your help! seated during this meeting, and will elect Out and About is an outdoor activities October: Sat. Oct. 27—AIDS Rochester Offering Therapy for Individuals, Horace Lethbridge, M.A. Scott Cohen 546-138/ ff you've been putting off coming to an from among themselves a president, vice- group open to the gay and lesbian communi Masquerade Ball. Couples and Groups RLAC meeting, don't wait any longer. Come president, secretary and treasurer. ty of Rochester. For information call Date not determined—Dignity/Integrity Proficient in Sign Language — Adjustable Fee or write: P.O. Box 18053 473-9384. anniversary dinner. Rochester, N.y. 14618-0053 December: Sat. Dec.. 1—World AIDS Day 385-4735 v or TTY J WELLESLEY CENTER vn |\|/|—:y TIMOTHY SCHAPP, M.S. ED., NCC 442-2986 716-377-7244 Baibam Debes, M.S., C.A*S., LesMan Psycliothenq[rfst Nationally Certified Counselor offers Groups forming now — Roman Catholics * Episcopalians individual, couples Lesbian Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse Other Gay Christians Dr. Harvey J. Chasser and group counseling and support. and Certified Social Worker 325-4090 Medical Arts Building • 277 Alexander St. Partners of Lesbian Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse Join Us! Individual, Couple and Fanuly Psychotherapy If interested, please call for more information. Sliding fee scale. Dignity-Integrity/Rochester is an ecumenical organizatton open to Accepts Blue Choice everyone who wishes to worship in a pleasant, non-threaten ing Office Hours by Appt. • PENFIELD, NEW YORK atmosphere. We invite you to join us for our weekly celebration of thc Eucharist, followed by a social hour, or one of our many special 1 Is drinking Addressing the needs events such as a pot luck supper, picnic, retreat, etc. A Roman WHITE SPRUCE Catholic mass is celebrated each Sunday of the month, except for of gay, lesbian & thc fourth Sunday when mass is celebrated in thc Episcopal a problem bisexuai individuais tradition. Lesbian & their temiiies Pastoral aitd Paer Counseling Is also available Resource in your life? ASSOCIATES AA can help. Center Call 232-6720,24 hours a day. Providing individual, couple & family therapy Sunday Schedule AFTER HOURS Or come to Qay AA Liturgy-5:00p.m. TRAVEL at St. Luke's Church • Alcoholism & Social Hour-6:00 p.m. IJOCKPORT, NY on Thursdays at 8:30 pm. Downtown Sexuality & co-depcndency issues gender-related concerns St. Lukes Episcopal Church CONVENIENT We aic a United 17 S. Fitzhugh St. ^n language interpreted, Presbyterian EVENING HOURS last meetmg of the month. More Light Relationship problems (between Main St. & Broad St.) Meets the first and CiMqpn^tioii Churcii Phone 328-9758 CALLtlOWAMO .TANT third Wednesday each For gay women only: 11 am Sunday :fntmt •ATUinAV Mondays at 8:30 pm. ALL Martha M. Howdcn« CSW, CAC "WiUhun Kelly, CSW, CAC TATHMS month 7:30-9:30 121 North ONLY TO aoivtvou Credentialed Akx)holism Counselor Credentialed Alcoholism Counselor WELCOME! ntzhugh St. Certified Sex Therapist For gay men only: 325-4000 Steven TX Davis, CSW, CAC Sundays at 8:30 pm TTY Credentialed Ateoholism Counselor EZi QayAI-ArK>n 423-1559 A social and Informational Saturdays at 7 pm dignity-integrity ^ rochester 434-0948 exchange for lesbian and nMwCL Unitarian Church 496 White Spruce Blvd. 272-7210 FOM bisexual women M HOUN UNC 4S»4ytt mm 22 THE EMPTY CLOSET MARCH 1990 MAaCHt990 THE EMPTY caiOSET 23 CLASSIFIED ADYERTISING •li. Part-time radio annoiMicer. On-air W&um, loving, sincere biscsnial, 41.6*2", floors, dining room, laimdry hook-ups. Ctassiflea ads cost S3 Jbr the first 30 pefsonality for adult contemporary music 200 lbs., reddish blond hair, giay blue eyes. storage, off-street parking, lease. $420 4-. ttfonisanaSiforetMAiuiaUionailOtvortis. format. Permanent weekend shifts, Homebody, Uke cookifig, country music, 325-1593. Serui check or money onier and aa typed vacation fill-ih work. Commercial radio fock & roU. fisMng A camping, reading. Walk to Durand Beacht Suimy one- What else do I need to know? ar written teg^fy, to. E,C, Press, 7i3 Mottroe experience necessary. Send resume and James Yin Buien #18916, PO Box 1989. Ely. bedroom duplex; carpeting, screened AtfC, Box F, Rocbesten NY i4607. AOs will ape to Jay Philippone. program director, NV 89301. porch, stove, refrigerator, basement, Meinbers agree that the information they piovide is complete and accurate. As well, that nof be acceptta over tbe tetepbone. WVOR FM-100, 1700 Midtown Ibwer, PO Looking for someone to share my true parking. $375too plus utUities. One year any infonnatkm they receive ftom us is confidratiaUbr their personal use only, in accor The Empty Closet ttfilt nat accept Box 40340, Rochester NY 14604. feeUngs, thoughts and ftiture plans with. I'm lease. Pet considered. AvaUable April 1 or Buddies 'n' Pals dance with the ot^ccdves <^the service. ctassifled ads by mail unless tbey are ac 28, 5'11", 165 lbs., black hair, hazel eyes, May 1. 323-2419 (except March 9-18). X'n' Partners We reserve the right to decUne ^>pUcatioo8 for any reason, if an appUcadon is decUned a companied by a name attd tetepbone muscular buUd. Have degree in btisiness and luU refund wiU be issued. We also reserve the rigfat to tenninate any memberah^ without ^KUtments for rent. Unfurnished, A goy dating service A Hunf/Storck Group Corrpanias. Inc. number Tbe number witl not be ptiblish acocounting, also cooking school. Larry large two-bedroom flat with gumwood refund if the infomiation provided is found to be deliberately incomplete, imtrue or ed, but tife tvill call to cottftrm tbe ad Cash, #150-946, PO Box 45699. LucasvUlc trim, hardwood floors, stove and deceptive. placement. Personals OH, 45699- refrigerator, in old home, located on Lake Local Maryland 301^383-6144 WB accept personal ads, but tbe adver Looking for a lover and friend. Brown and Clay Ave. Garage. $450/mo + utiUties. Nationwide 1-800-344-PALS How do I fill out the Application Form? tiser mttst tise bis or ber otsm box number hair; green eyes, 195 lbs., very good build. rm a gay wlilte male, 34, 6*1", 180 458-6511. Also new, large, furnished We know you hate reading instructions, but in orderfo r us to provide you with the best or address. W& publish personal ads from I don't Uke bars and don*t want anyone who studio with skylight, appliances, lbs., dark blond, blue eyes, healthy, possible service, please read these ittstruetiotts cart^lly before filling out your Bud prisotters on a ^Hice-available tntsis, Ifyou handsome, and works second shift, with will play games with me. Donald CUnton microwave, cordless phone and answering Who are we? iHtve a problem ttHtb apenpai, let tts krtotv. Black, PO Box 1989, Ely. NV 89301. machine, parking. Also on Lake and Clay dies 'n' Pais 'n' Partners Application Form, weekends off. I enjoy a variety of Formed in 1986, Buddies 'n' Pais 'n' Partners is a computer dating service. Our Tbe Empty Closet cannot Ife held responsi activities, and would like to share these White male, 40, 6*2", blond-brown hair, Ave. Apartment has separate or common At first 191 questions may seem a bit overwhelming, but, in fact, fiUing out the AppUcation bl fbr anyflnancial toss or physical injury brown eyes, 180 lbs. Athletic, in good entrance with above-listed apartment. goal is to help you meet someone c^>atible, both socially and sexuaUy, as a fnend or a Form is reaUy not that difficult if you foUow these four steps: intcfcsts with a friend or lover (possibly). lover. tbat may result front any correspondence. I seek a gay white or Oriental male, physical sliape. I enjoy sports, reading, music $400/mo + electric. 458-6511. 25-30, good build, somewhat mature, and and art. Interests include amateur carpentry, Rooms for rent.Lexington-Dewey area. How does your service work? STEP I: FiU in the section entitled Membership Information (For office use only). Enter absolutely chemical free! Td like a clear costume jewelry, and operating small your name, fiiU maUing address, zip code, phope number. (We wiU contact you by phone Male non-smoker, quiet. Room with When yotir apphcation is received it is entered into our computer system, the computer Announcements headed, fun-loving human being who novelties shop. I would like very much to kitchen faciUties. Close to bank, gas only if you include a phone number here). A mailing address is required for sendinc needs huggin', lovin' and respect! And hear from you, write me today and let's get sution, markets. Call 254-8551. assigns you a cUent number. It then compares each of your attributes to those of aU the match Usts. * Be generous tliis year during the will give some in return... If these are acquainted soon. James Galen Hanna, other cUents currently in our data base, eliminating those members having too many traits #152-169, PO Box 45699. LucasvUlc OH you have classed as undesirable and retaining those that meet your requirements. United Way Campaign. Thc Gay Alliance the things you arc looking for, please STEP 2: Complete the Contact Information section and sign the disclaimer. The contact is eligible to receive funds under the write to this address: 15 Walton St., 45699-0001. The report you receive wiU contain the foUowing infoimation about your matches: A cUent Gay white male, 27, 146 lbs., 5'8', black For sale infomiaticMi you provide here wUl be given to members who match with you. The contact Donor Option D Program. Help your Rochester NY 14620. identity munber, a mini-profUe Usting all thc attributes the cUent used to describe himself; information should include your first name and pfaone number or a contact address. Use community! GBM, 38, seeks GM for friendship, hair and green eyes. Searching for that West Irondequoit, Winona Blvd. 6 as weU as the authorized contact information provided by the cUent Our double screening this section to teU members something about yourself, infomiation tiiat would not normaUy possible rclationship. Box 19396, special person to share my life with. I enjoy Volunteers for National Institute of rooms, 1 1/2 baths (2 bedrooms and den). process ensures that you meet the other cUents' requirements. Rochester NY 14619. music, poetry and writing. William be included in the mini-profile. The use of tiiis section is entirely up to yoa However, giving Health studies.. For information about Eat-in kitchen, in-home office/rec. room. Attractive WF seeks the company, McCorkle> 075385 1680, Avon Park Correc Your cUent niunber is used to aUow us to verify your identity when you call our office, you out work phone numbers or home address is strongly discounted! NIH AIDS studies call 1-800-AlDS-NlH. Updated mechanics. Parklike compassion and thoughtfulness of a bi- tional Institution, PO Box 1100, Avon Park, are the only one who should know this code. Monday through Friday, from noon to 3 neighborhood. Ideal p.m. Message may be left at other hours, female, to slowly teach mc how to enjoy FL 33825-1100. STEP 3: The Boxes on the left hand side oi each column are used when the indicated and complete confidentiality is assured. and experience thc togetherness two Single gay male, age 25, seeks correspon singles/couples/roommate situation. $90s How much does it cost? attribute applies to you. Check at least one box per section, only one box in sections which offers. 544-3419 after 5 pm. Center director for Gay Alliance ol women can share in today's world of dance from same, of all ages. Enjoys reading, Our service fee is currently $35, which includes a one time processing charge and your are mutually exclusive (£e. Age, Height, Hair, Location). Genesee Valley. Part-time. Responsible for life's pleasures. Reply with descriptive music, holding hands, and the outdoors. I am FOR SALE BY OWNER: Brighton townhome. print-out ofthe top 15 matches from oiu* current data base. As well, you automaticaUy lonesome; however, with your correspon Only six units loc^ated on beautiful park-tike general office duties, facility letter and photo. Marcia L., PO Box 2124, receive a six month membership during which other members may be matched with you; STEP 4: The words YES, OK and NO to the left ofthe attribute name describe the type management, and distribution of Gay Auburn NY 13021. dance I'm never alone. Respond: Mr. Ernest property. No homeowner's association which they wiU receive the authorized contact infomiadon you have provided. You can know of Bircher, PO Box 45699-181854, LucasviUe means no '*condo commandos" to deal with. of person you would Uke to meet Circle YES when the attribute is strongly desired in a Alliance information. Send resume and Blind gay white male, 5'7', 260 lbs., 4l. these matches oniy when they contact yott. match. Indicating a YES wUl never disquaUfy a potential match. Circle OK ifit doesn't cover letter to Personnel Committee. OH 45699 This is a contemporary two-story with full base Interested in developing a meaningful, deep ment. Built 15 years ago when quaUty was stUi You may also order our MatchPius service for $55.00, This fee includes 30 cUent mater one way or tiie otiier. Circle NO ifyou would not iike tills attribute in a match. A GAGV, 713-C Monroe Ave, Rochester NY and long-lasting relationship with a man, 34 Lonely man, 27, hobbies are football, matches and a 6 montfa meml>ership for MatchPius service cusUnners. You may update 14607. basketball, basebaU, track and field, music, in fashion. Basement is divided into three semi NO acts as a vote against the person, it does not automaticaUy disquaUfy them to 80 years, who is emotionally stable, finished rms. Washer/dryer, mini and vertical your contact information at any time without chatge. Peer facilitator—Answer thc Gay talkative, friendly, warm, caring, compas reading and sharing ideals. Open-minded, Alliance hotline on a regularly scheduled enjoy all kinds of people. Would like to cor blinds thru-out, ceramic tUe in foyer and kit sionate, understanding and introspective. chen. One car attached gan^^c with automatic basis on weekend evenings and during The prospective applicant should feel respond with open-minded woman, lady daytime hours. Good listening skills a who values her morals and respect at all door. AU new top line appliances, new Lenox reasonably comfortable with being gay, central air, one fuU bath, two half bathes, and must! Will train. If interested, call the p.f. short, tall, & overweight. I am currently times. wiUing to accept a gentleman. An line 244-8640, leave a message on thc thony R. Miller, No. 042610. MaUbox 1571. so many closets that I can't find things haU the Computerized Application Form employed at the Association for the Blind time. Much Much more! \bu must see aU to ap- tape. A peer facilitator will get back to and Visually Impaired (ABVI). Am interested Avon Park Correctional Institution, Avon you. Park, FL 33825-1100. IHCciate the super value of the low asking price in working with special adaptive computer of just under $100K. FHA financiable because Volunteers needed for Gay Alliance cc\\iipfncnt for Viltnd, IndWiciuals, and enfoy Dear Buddy: Please read the instructions carefully so that your match Ust is not delayed Contact Information considefied as a single famUy attached. Ttiis due to errors on your apphcation. Your application must be complete or it wUl be returned . Tcauiin^ a gircat deal. ^K^ould not wrisli to have means down paymem that a pauper could af- .^ • Optionl: ContactinfoTTnalLion->Arritt«n\se\ovr vnU\>e^venouttotneTn]be^ carpentry, moving volunteers needed. long-lasting relationship with someone who Roommates/ to you for correction. For best results, please indicate at least one ofyotir ovm ti^atts in each fiord. Moving soon to another dty so wiU also of the main sections oi tiie apphcation form (Le. Age, BuUd, Race). ' ^ with your profUe. Contact information should include your first name and a phone number Fundraising volunteers needed is HIV +. Contact Bob at 987-7803. consider a rental to right person or couple CaU . or some contact address. Work numbers and home address are discouraged! throughout 1990. Call 244-8640. New to area, seeks firm-bodied, sound- Housemates 383-0501 between 8 am and 10 pm. If leaving Membership Infonnation Discreetly order adult novelties, minded, healthy-habited GM upstate friends Please provide the following confidential information to help us service your membership. Cpiease print) Roommate wanted to share three- a message, be sure to state whether interested aromas and lubricants. Special: IHple Up among all races and ages. I'm healthy, hap in buying or renting. (AU ccnrespondence to members is maUed in plain envelc^ies.) Aroma, 3 bottles (30 ml each) for S15 py, hard, hot, hung. Handsome, sexy? See bedroom house, city NE. Nice quiet plus S2 shipping and handling; 4 oz. yourself 42, GWM, 5*5", 129 lbs., smooth, neighborhood. Close to the new mall. Name . ... ^IbGw Grease 15.95 plus 12 shipping and muscular, brown/blue eyes, versatile, warm. Off-street parking, laundry and ample handling. Send check or mottey order to Share some good sex, good times in storage. $250 plus half utiUties. Male or Address _. . bedroom, around town, out in country. female. Call 342-2803 or 263-2476. RBC Mail Order, 243 Midtown Plaza, 0ty/StsmfZip Suite 297, Rochester NY. 14604. Quick response to your letter/^hoto. R.B., PO Roommate to share two-bedroom in Com- Disclaimer Job wanted. Male stripper performs for Box 4102. Utica NY 13504. hiU. Rent is »225. Off-street P^f.^^Jng. cable, Phone By signing I agree that neither tfae computer dating service nor its agents has any liability and cannot be held res parties, private functions, birthdays, etc. All Male Tklk Line, 1-800-666-HUNK. pets allowed. Call 454-2436. Available March ponsible for any actkxis ofits members as a resuk ofthe release ofthe authorized contact information indicated Call Quicksilver, 458-3572. Must use touchtone. MC/Visa. 75 cents 1/2 FiU out thc fon]|tX)mplctely and nuul with a check or money order for $ 35, payable above. 1 also state that I am of legal age. Writers with AIDS. Grant money minute. Must be 18. Roommate wanted. I am looking for a gay to Buddies *rf'PaIs *»• Partners, P.O. Box 13326. Baltimore, MD, 21203 male to sharc housing. I live on second floor, available from PEN American Center for The -1 Ail Man Line, 1-800-933-MANN. Note: Mailing address rdluirtd Jbr aending tnatch lists. Please allow one to two weeks Jor us to process Signature Date published writers and editors with AIDS. Must use touchtone. MC/Visa. 75 cents 1/2 you would have private living/bedroom atea your applicatwH. Contact Christine Friedlander, PEN AIDS minute. Must be 18. in third floor loft, share kitchen and bath on Fund, PEN American Center, 568 The following prisoners are lonely and second floor. S250/mo includes utUities, Broadway, New York N.Y. 10012; seeking correspondence iHth anyone cable TV. laundry. Private fenced yard and (212-334-1660). who will write: patio. Located on Prince St. CaU 262-4359. Roommate wanted. Gay white female non- Wedding photos. WIM Publications, Male, 27 years old, would like to find sincere, compatible friendship. Tm sincere smoker, to share half a house off Monroe Ave. New Eaflaod/tJiHtalr New Yorti Hafa^ DKM D YES OK NO Doorway D YES OK NO French passive Black-owned lesbian/feminist publishers, AvaUable March 1. CaU 473-4928 if interested. • YES OK NO Buffalo area a YES UK NO Black a YES OK NO Casual (t-shtrt. jeans) D YES OK NO Openly gay n YES OK NO Greek active seeks contributions for Tbe lesbian and and very realistic about life and romance. a YES OK NO Rochester area D YES OK NO Dark Brown YES OK NO Sometimes sloppy D YES OK NO Greek passive ll^uited—gay female to share 3 bedroom a a YES OK NO Gay Wedding Boots, a non-fiaion Anthony Riggins, #188-083, PO Box 45699, • YES OK NO Syractise/central NY D YES OK NO Light Brown n VES OK NO High fashion SocU Activibn SAFESEX house on Rand St. Drug free. WUl consider D YES OK NO Poughkeepsie/SE NY D YES OK NO Auburn n YES OK NO Seini-formal a YES OK NO Sprcuior sportN n VES OK NO Toys pictorial that will document lesbian and Lucasvillc Ohio 45699-0001. D YES OK f-iO Albany/ Schenectady; E. NY n YES OK NO Red D YES OK NO Drag D YES OK NO Working nut D YES OK NO Leather pet. S300 plus half gas & electric. AvaUable NO gay unions. Contact Dr. S. Diane Bogus, Man In prison, GWM, 31, 6*4 , 210 lbs., a YES OK NO Boston/E. Mau./Rl D YES OK NO Strawberry Blond D YES OK NO Movio a YES OK S Miop March 1. Call 254-6043 or 422-2646, ask for D YES OK NO Connecticut; W. Mass. D YES OK NO Blond OecHfpalioa a YES OK NO live theatre O YES OK 1-iO S M bottom 3601 Crowell Rd. #100, lUrlock CA brown hair, hazel eyes, attractive, intelligent, D YES OK NO Vermont / N H / Maine a YES OK NO White gray D YES OK NO Financially independent a YES OK NO TV video D YES OK NO Heavy S M 95380; (209)667-0966. extremely lonely, seeking correspondance Fran. MAKE OUR BAR D YES OK NO Bakl D YES OK NO Self-supporting D YES OK NO Concerts n YES OK NO Experimental Male roommate wanted to share nicely fur a YES OK NO Nonself-supponing a YES OK NO Ari> events a YES OK NO Three-ways with anyone who knows how lonely life can Type or RctatiotMMp Eye. n YES OK NO Unemployed D YES OK NO Dining out D YES OK NO Group sex nished Beechwood home. Hardwood floors. • YES OK NO Lover (monogamous) D YES OK NO Blue YES OK NO Student YES OK NO Parties a YES OK NO Very experienced be. Age, race unimportant. All answered who a n NO Near bus Une. Not for from E. Main St. or YOUR BAR... a YES OK NO Lover (nonmonogamous) D YES OK NO Cireen D YES OK NO Office cferical D YES OK NO Bar\ dancinii D YES OK Average experKncr send a stamp. Gene WUrich, #14668, PC Box D YES OK NO BtKldy (sexual) a YES OK NO Gray D YES OK NO Service' hospitality YES OK NO Cooking D YES OK NO Inexperienced n NO 1989. ESP, Ely, NV 89301. Bausch & Lomb. Non-smoker preferred, neat n YES OK NO Buddy .*timM^' r.^,„ . •».- \i^: '^ •1 i^y /r X' THE LIE No. 212 March 1990 2/or I Liqiioi Rochester, New York 50 cents o eers NEW YORK STATE'S OLDEST GAY NEWSPAPER WED Lip Sync Contest Female Impemmutors FRI * 71 AND SAT '•• - . Female Impersonators M BSMil ltZit?ll.fiERTv POU y^m -;..;•;:,:;;:: >> -->; A •. / ^ ' 5 ^*j ' •?, t * > ^ ^v >>'^ rf. ^- ^ '.> .t^ ./;- *^,5«^' ife^^-v ^.^^ *A >^ ^ USIC IN THE (^OMMUNITV •J* ... -..iJtt 1 r e^:-'- *. V.-