LGBT College Students Face Did Michigan RFRA Prevent More Sexual Violence Battle Creek Couple From The GOP Prez Debates Still Adopting? – pg. 6 Anti-gay After All These Years

WWW.PRIDESOURCE.COM SEPT. 24, 2015 | VOL. 2339 | FREE

Michigan didn’t prepare for this. Our governor, our legislators and our attorney general were fighting a case trying to keep the (same-sex marriage) ban going, and they didn’t think about what the ramifications would be if they lost. - Jennifer LaTosch

The Legal Ripple Effect From Marriage Equality See page 12 Cover 20 The Riot’s Riot Features 6 The legacy of Michigan’s anti-gay adoption law opening:The Whale crisis on campus happenings 8 LGBT college students face more sexual violence 10 Ruth Ellis Center announces changes at Voices 2015 12 The legal ripple effect from marriage equality 12 Affirmations names new director of operations, youth program manager 13 Trans activist to speak at V to Shining Teen Actors Are Totally Convincing In 16 Fiorina wins GOP debate, LGBT issues ‘BFs!’ get discussed “The Whale” of this show is a 600-pound gay man See page 31 19 AP: Man claims bias over use of HIV- from Idaho named Charlie. His health failing, and blocking drug having lost his husband to a tragic death, he’s LGBT College Students Nearly Twice As Likely To reaching out for love and acceptance from others, Experience Sexual Violence Opinion including an estranged daughter. See page 8 Check Out This Week’s 14 Parting Glances: Candles at both ends 14 Transmissions: Rocky Road UDM Theatre Company Takes A Message Of Love Happenings 17 Creep of the Week: Mike Huckabee On The Road See page 30

Life See page 24 Be sure to head over to 24 UDM Theater Company takes a Pridesource.com/calendar.html message of love on the road for hundreds more events from 26 Cool Cities: Royal Oak arts to theater to LGBTQ friendly events around Michigan. 30 Happenings 31 Theater Review: BFs! 32 Dynamic Duo sings with Detroit You can add an event too! 33 A Couple of guys F rivolist Fall TV Countdown 35 Frivolist: 17 Fall shows to watch See page 35

Vol. 2339 • September 24, 2015 • Issue 932 Editorial Creative Advertising & Sales ONLINE at Editor in Chief Graphic Design Director of Sales Pride Source Media Group Susan Horowitz, 734.293.7200 x 12 Benjamin Jenkins, [email protected] Jan Stevenson, 734.293.7200 x 22 “Between The Lines Newspaper” 20222 Farmington Rd., Livonia, Michigan 48152 [email protected] [email protected] Phone 734.293.7200 Webmaster & MIS Director Entertainment Editor Kevin Bryant, [email protected] Sales Representatives Follow us @YourBTL Publishers Chris Azzopardi, 734.293.7200 x 24 Ed Bohach, 734.293.7200 x 15 Contributing Writers Susan Horowitz & Jan Stevenson [email protected] [email protected] Charles Alexander, Michelle E. Brown, Email your op–eds to Member of Assistant Editor ED English, Todd Heywood, Jason Michael, Ann Cox, 734.293.7200 x 13 [email protected] Michigan Press Assoication Shelby Clark Petkus, [email protected] Jerome Stuart Nichols, Gwendolyn Ann Smith, [email protected] National Gay Media Association Christopher J. Treacy Donelle Kremke, 734.293.7200 x 16 Sign up online to receive our E–Digest Q Syndicate Calendar Editor Shelby Clark Petkus, [email protected] Cartoonists [email protected] Paul Berg, Dave Brousseau Staff Writers N ational Advertising Representative Our rate cards are available online. All material appearing in Rivendell Media, 212.242.6863 Between The Lines is protected by federal copyright law and AJ Trager, [email protected] Contributing Photographers may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission Andrew Potter of the publishers. Between The Lines is supported by many fine Tony Lowe advertisers, but we cannot accept responsibility for claims made Copyright 2015 Pride Source Media Group, LLC by our advertisers, nor can we accept responsibility for materials provided by advertisers or their agents. www.PrideSource.com Sept. 24, 2015 | BTL 3 BRIEFS WMU Begins New Academic Year Obama Pick Would Be First With Preferred Name Policy Openly Gay Service Chief BY AJ Trager WASHINGTON D.C. (AP) – President Barack Obama said Sept. 18 that he will KALAMAZOO – Just in time for the nominate longtime Pentagon official Eric 2015 academic year, Western Michigan Fanning to be the Army’s new secretary. If University has adopted a preferred name confirmed, Fanning would be the nation’s policy that allows students to be identified first openly gay leader of a military service. by a chosen name rather than their legal “Eric brings many years of proven name in a wide range of campus settings experience and exceptional leadership to and activities. this new role,” Obama said in a written WMU joins the University of Michigan, statement. “I am grateful for his commitment Michigan State University, Michigan to our men and women in uniform, and I Technological University and Northern am confident he will help lead America’s Michigan University as the only universities soldiers with distinction. I look forward to in the state to offer this type of policy to working with Eric to keep our Army the very students. best in the world.” “The option of having a preferred first Fanning has been acting undersecretary name is a reflection of WMU’s continued of the Army since June. He has served as commitment to the inclusion of all special assistant to Defense Secretary Ash individuals,” says Dr. Martha Warfield, Carter and held senior positions in the Air vice president for diversity and inclusion. Force, including undersecretary from 2013 “Recognizing and using the first names to 2015. students choose for themselves confirms The nomination comes as the Obama to students that we respect who they are.” administration works to eliminate barriers Legal names will still be used for to military service based on sexuality or enrollment, transcripts, diplomas, financial gender. Army secretary is a civilian position. aid, e-learning and certain federal reporting, Fanning’s nomination must be confirmed but students are now free to select the first by the Senate. He would replace John name of their choice for class lists, email, McHugh, who has said he plans to step ID cards, the student computing portal down no later than Nov. 1. (GoWMU) and campus directories. With this move, WMU becomes one of just Lawmakers: Make Stonewall 146 schools around the nation that have adopted some form of preferred name Inn A National Park policy, according to Campus Pride, a NEW YORK (AP) – Two New York national service and advocacy group for legislators are leading a campaign to LGBT and ally student leaders and campus designate Stonewall Inn as the first national organizations. park honoring LGBT history. The conversation began roughly Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand and U.S. Rep. eight months ago when a task force was Jerrold Nadler made their announcement established to amend the university’s Sunday in front of the Greenwich Village policy. The university’s diversity office was tavern that was the scene of a 1969 uprising supportive throughout the whole process, at a key moment for the nascent gay rights she told BTL. movement. The updated policy will appeal to LGBT “When we look at our country, we have students, especially transgender students recognized women’s rights, civil rights, all as well as international students, who often kinds of rights,” Gillibrand said. “The time choose a first name that enables them to has come to give this part of our history an enhance their assimilation to the U.S. and imprimatur of national importance.” WMU. National parks can only be created by The preferred name option also extends an act of Congress. They include sites of to campus employees who can change cultural or historic importance. their preference though the Office of Gillibrand says she and Nadler are first Human Resources. Faculty and staff are asking President Barack Obama to declare encouraged to use preferred first names in Stonewall a monument. A congressional their interactions with students and in all vote on park status would come later. university communications, except where Gillibrand credited gay-rights activists use of a legal name is required by university for spurring action on giving greater business. recognition to the historic tavern raided Visit www.wmich.edu/registrar/policies/ by police more than four decades ago, preferred-name triggering violent protests.

4 BTL | Sept. 24, 2015 www.PrideSource.com

The Legacy Of Michigan’s Anti-gay Adoption Law Couple Claims Discrimination From Christian Adoption Agency, Children Removed

By Todd Heywood

as Michigan’s new Religious Freedom law left same-sex couples even worse Hoff than they anticipated? The law allows faith-based agencies that declare their opposition to same-sex adoptions to refuse those cases. But at least one agency – perhaps out of a desire to appear tolerant – may be discriminating against at least one same-sex couple without claiming the exemption the law now allows. Lansing As Michigan’s new discriminatory adoption legislation was working its way through the state Legislature and to the governor’s desk, two faith-based adoption agencies stepped forward with letters to the governor supporting the bills. Both agencies had also testified before legislative committees supporting the legislation. One of them is Bethany Christian Services. “Unfortunately, it is that faith which is now under attack,” wrote Bill Blacquiere, president of Bethany, in a letter to the governor, “with some state and local governments taking the position that faith-based agencies must choose between their desires to help children and families and their fidelity to their religious principles.” The letter is undated, but was released by Lorie Adams, 41, and her partner of 14 years, Patti, 54, had two chilidren they were fostering and trying to adopt abruptly removed over three weeks ago by Bethany the office of Republican Gov. Rick Snyder in Christian Services. The agency was one of two faith-based agencies that worked to see a law passed which allows them to discriminate. BTL photo: Todd Heywood June. Snyder was preparing to sign the three bill package into law. of harm. The women claim the agency’s faith and adoption, Bob Wheaton, a spokesperson Jesus Christ by protecting and enhancing the Meanwhile, in Calhoun County, Lorie based service model was the real reason, and for the Michigan Department of Health and lives of children and families through quality Adams, 41, and her partner of 14 years, their sexual orientation was the main cause Human Services, denied the agency was social services. Patti Pulsifer, 54, were continuing their of the denial. aware of Bethany’s opposition to same-sex “In the hope that we will bring glory to daily routines. Adams stayed home with Indeed, Bethany was clear in the letter to relationships and adoption. God in everything we do, we focus on three the two foster children she was trying to Snyder about its “Christian faith.” “I can’t speak to a specific case,” Wheaton core values: adopt; Pulsifer was working second shift at a “We at Bethany are compelled by our faith wrote in an email to Between The Lines “Integrity – Make decisions that are casino. A year earlier, the request from Adams to serve,” Blacquiere wrote, “and we adhere “However, I can tell you that Bethany has not consistent with Biblical principles. to adopt the kids was referred by county to the values and beliefs of our faith when informed us that the agency would not work Impact – Go above and beyond. social workers to Bethany, and Bethany, in serving.” with a lesbian couple.” Innovation – Be dedicated to improvement.” effect, took control and oversight of the two That faith, based on the same letter and Wheaton was unable to explain how Bethany officials in 2011 lobbied the children in the couple’s care. They would do contemporary reporting on testimony from the agency was unaware of the agency’s government in Virginia to reject the adoption the background investigations, home visits the agency leaders, prohibits the agency from opposition to same-sex adoptions. That’s of a new administrative rule which would and other evaluations necessary to make a adopting children to same-sex couples. despite the agency’s own website touting prohibit discrimination in adoptions and foster determination if consent to adopt would be Despite this publicly available information the following as its mission: “Our mission is placements on the basis of sexual orientation. provided. regarding Bethany’s attitude on homosexuality to demonstrate the love and compassion of The rule was rejected by a government The two women said their relationship with oversight board. the social service agency started with a social The couple’s case is complex. There is no worker, 20 minutes into her first meeting with The two women said their relationship with the social service agency, smoking gun to support or deny the adoption them, asking them to explain how they would found in the hundreds of pages of agency tell the two children – both under age 6 – that Bethany Christian Services, started with a social worker, 20 minutes into her reports and documents reviewed by Between the adult women shared the same bed. The Lines. There is also no overtly anti-gay The agency in July recommended consent first meeting with them, asking them to explain how they would tell the two statements in those documents. for the adoption be denied, and by August Ultimately, the conflict comes down to had removed the children from the women’s children – both under age 6 – that the adult women shared the same bed. which side of the battle one believes is telling home, claiming they were at imminent risk the truth. Either these women are unfit to 6 BTL | Sept. 24, 2015 www.PrideSource.com be foster parents and adoptive parents, or to refuse services to families based on the “frequently kicks and slaps 4 year old foster 114 special investigations during Fiscal Year the agency denied the adoption because the agency’s “sincerely held religious beliefs.” child.” In May, the couple was cleared 2014, with 37 of those investigations finding women are lesbians – and the state set them That law was passed in June of 2015. of any abuse, although they were found citations that required a corrective action up for failure by referring them to an agency And Adams and Pulsifer were hit on the in non-compliance with foster care rules plan,” Wheaton wrote in responses to an with a documented anti-gay record. blindside by the agency in what they say was requiring them to have any potential new home inquiry from BTL. “Total number of citations To be clear: The MDHSS, per its own discrimination based on sexual orientation. inspected and approved prior to them moving issued as a result of the 37 investigations was policies, declined to discuss this case They claim a social worker from the agency to the new housing. The couple moved in 143.” specifically. Bethany Christian Services also demanded they explain how the couple would April, to a smaller house, which was ultimately While Wheaton could not provide specifics declined to discuss the case, and as a result explain to the children why the two women approved by social workers from the agency. on foster home specific investigations, a BTL was left with interviews with Adams slept in the same bed. Patti described the Five other licensing provisions investigators report released earlier this year following the and Pulsifer, hundreds of pages of documents relationship with the agency as a “witch hunt thought might have been violated were found drowning death of an autistic foster child in from MDHHS through Calhoun County and from the start.” to be compliant. Flint, and interviews with current and former Bethany, and information and documents In May and August, the couple underwent Licensing officials did not recommend any foster parents, reveal licensing investigations available on the web. MDHHS did provide two more licensing investigations. The first changes to the couple’s license. and CPS complaints are par for the course. some general information to BTL regarding they were found noncompliant because they Two months later, Bethany informed the The Flint related inquiry found the child investigations of foster home and licensing had allowed unapproved people to live in couple it was not recommending consent to placement agency had failed to act on serious agencies. the home. The second, alleged Patti, violated adopt the children. licensing violations found and reported in the In the weeks long investigation into this state policies on keeping the identity of foster The reasons: “inability to recognize agency’s own records. None of the serious case, BTL has consulted psychiatrists with children confidential when she posted items developmental concerns; inconsistency with violations cited in the 44-page report match a speciality in working with the LGBT on Facebook. The couple was found compliant workers and service providers; consistent the allegations against Adams and Pulsifer. community, gay and lesbian foster parents with state policies. use of yelling as regular discipline technique; and former and current state officials – both In June, caseworkers from Bethany stability of Lorie and Patti’s relationship and elected and appointed. expressed concern about the young boy 9 CPS and/or licensing complaints since The Aftermath in the couple’s care related to his speech. December of 2012.” After Bethany notified the couple of the They claim to have never witnessed the The issues relating to developmental agency’s decision not to recommend consent A Dream Becomes to adopt the two kids, social workers scheduled A Nightmare a Family Team Meeting. During the meeting, As Michigan’s new discriminatory adoption legislation was working its two things happened. In June of 2013, Lorie Adams and Patti First, Adams told workers she was angry, Pulsifer became licensed foster parents in way through the state Legislature and to the governor’s desk, two faith- frustrated and tired. Social workers thought Calhoun County. The couple was excited to she was referring to the children; she was, in open their home, and their love, to some of fact, referring to the adoption process and the Michigan’s most vulnerable residents. Since based adoption agencies stepped forward with letters to the governor relationship with Bethany. that time, the state has placed 31 foster kids Second, the little boy began acting up. in their home. supporting the bills. One of them was Bethany Christian Services. Adamsordered him to his room as a “time out.” Like all foster homes, the couple endured The little boy defiantly asked if she was going licensing investigations and investigations to spank him again. from Child Protective Services – all things boy speak. An assessment was ordered, and concerns recognition date back to the difference Bethany Christian Services social workers’ foster parents, both gay and straight, experts determined there was no need for of opinion between speech pathology ears perked up. They inquired, had Adams experience. Records show there were six speech pathology programming. Despite experts and Bethany’s social workers. The spanked him? She admitted she had, months complaints between December 2012 and this, caseworkers raised concerns in August inconsistency referenced missed appointments earlier. Three swats to his rear end for trying January 2014. Three of those complaints and September that the boy was not receiving from earlier and allegations the couple may not to slam his sister’s hand in the van door. alleged physical abuse in the home. All three services for what they determined was a have been fully forthcoming with psychiatrists Agency workers said they would arrange were cleared by CPS investigators. One developmental issue. during a psychological evaluation. Social for respite care – a move wherein an agency complaint – involving a foster child stealing That’s when Bethany, after having workers claimed the evaluations may have brings in another licensed provider to care for prescription medication from the couple and supervision of the couple and the two kids in been tainted because the two women did the children while the parents have personal selling it at school – was never investigated care for just seven months, tried to remove the not discuss any relationship difficulties, and time. Adams and Pulsifer thought they were by authorities. And two complaints related kids. The young boy was 3 years old. The girl relationship difficulties were present between agreeing to someone coming to their home. to licensing issues were substantiated by was just 22 months old, and had lived with the the two women. Earlier this year there was a Instead, agency workers returned and removed investigating officials. couple since two days after her birth. new break up over alleged infidelity, but the the kids “just for the weekend.” Once the kids In one complaint, the couple had failed to On Sept. 29, Bethany determined it “would couple worked their problems out together were out of the home, the agency successfully take a foster child to prescribed sexual assault not consider maintaining the children in the on their own. Bethany social workers were sought an order to permanently remove them, counseling appointments. But that is only home.” not pleased the women would not discuss the despite opposition from therapists working half the story. During the time this happened, Interestingly, Bethany had identified an relationship problem with them. with the little boy. the couple was dealing with the death of a “unrelated, pre-adoptive foster home in As for those nine investigations, as has The women have not seen the children for newborn grandchild. The couple addressed the Kalamazoo County” for the two children. The already been shown, the allegations related at least three weeks. Adams has not seen them situation to the satisfaction of Calhoun County home featured a mother, who was employed to the safety of the children were never since she put them into car seats in an agency authorities, documents show. as a kindergarten teacher, but the agency was substantiated. There were minor licensing social worker’s car and they were driven away. The other complaint involved an allegation unable to explain what the father did for a issues. Patti had multiple supervised visits. But those the couple had failed to properly prevent a living. Bob Wheaton, spokesman for the Michigan were ended when she filed a complaint that sunburn on a child in their care. The Foster Care Review Board ruled against Department of Health Human Services, which the little boy kept arriving at the visits with In February of 2014, the couple made the Bethany on Oct. 20, 2014, and ordered the oversees all foster care and adoption programs, bruises. Within 24 hours, she was texted by decision to adopt two siblings in their care. children remain in the home and care of said the department does not know how many Bethany workers and informed she would Their case was assigned to Bethany Christian Pulsifer and Adams. The Calhoun County licensing or CPS investigations are conducted no longer be allowed to see the boy she and Services – an evangelical Christian adoption DHS Licensing Supervisor told the agency and on an annual basis for the state’s 6,379 licensed Adams had come to think of as their son. agency based in Grand Rapids. The agency the review board that it had placed “several foster care homes. And late last week, Patti’s move to adopt touts itself as the largest Christian adoption children” in the couple’s home, and “would But Wheaton was readily able to identify the kids – taken in July as agency workers agency in the world. not hesitate to place another child with them.” how many licensing investigations were were taking the children – was swiftly denied It is also a major supporter of recently On April 16, 2015, the couple was again conducted of placement agencies, like Bethany. as well. adopted state laws allowing adoption agencies under investigation for allegation that Adams “For child-placing agencies, there were www.PrideSource.com Sept. 24, 2015 | BTL 7 ‘Crisis’: LGBT College Students Nearly Twice As Likely To Experience Sexual Violence

BY TODD HEYWOOD for the university, said already this year the The University of Michigan specific data affirmative consent. university has expanded its mandatory video was similar. “I think the consent issue is lacking across “Absolutely yes, there is a crisis.” on sexual assault to include information on the “They’re shocking,” said Amy Hunter, the board,” Hertel said. “It’s a pretty simple That’s how Yvonne Siferd, victim services community, as well as developed LGBTQ and coordinator of the ACLU of Michigan’s Trans message: Yes means yes.” director at Equality Michigan, summarized gender non-conforming specific information Advocacy Project, referring specifically to the Jesse Bernal, the vice president of the her response to a huge national survey on as part of its sexual assault awareness and national numbers related to LGBT and gender division of diversity and inclusion at Grand campus climates and sexual assault at 27 prevention campaign. non-conforming students. Valley State University, said the survey results U.S. universities, including the University In the general data found since enrolling “The transgender and gender non- “confirmed” that “we have a serious problem.” of Michigan and Michigan State GVSU did not participate in the University. survey, but Bernal had reviewed Over 150,000 students at those some of the findings. 27 universities were surveyed – and He said education on while the national media focused LGBTQ and gender conforming on the finding that, nationally, 23 communities was part of percent of undergraduate women addressing the issue. But he also reported being victims of sexual said being deliberately inclusive assault or sexual misconduct – the Absolutely yes, of all campus communities in survey revealed a troubling new educational programming was statistic: Those who identified as there“ is a crisis. important. part of the LGBTQ and gender “We’re taking a really complex non-conforming communities were response,” he said. “We’re not nearly twice as likely to report in That’s how Yvonne” Siferd, victim promoting strict gender conformity the survey that they have been services director at Equality Michigan, or heterosexual only ideas.” victims than their heterosexual summarized her response to a huge As director of Title IX – a counterparts. They were also less national survey on campus climates federal law which governs how likely to file a complaint with and sexual assault at 27 U.S. universities, educational agencies respond an official agency regarding the including the University of Michigan to sexual violence on campus incident. – Bernal said he is taking “an and Michigan State University. Who the perpetrators of this intersectional framework, not just sexual violence and misconduct a heteronormative one.” were – whether they identified as But when the topic of affirmative members of the LGBTQ and gender consent comes up – particularly non-conforming community or not, around the LGBTQ and gender for instance – was unclear. non-conforming communities – “I would say that overall, the what initially appears “clear” can LGBTQ students’ experiences are quickly become muddied. reflective of the intense homo/bi/ For instance, he said, how does transphobia that runs rampant in one account for nonverbal consent? our state,” said Siferd in an email. “We are at MSU, 13.2 percent of the students conforming community is already most at risk “Consent is complicated,” he said. disproportionately targeted for violence and responding to the survey said they for violence,” Hunter said, “It is now evident “Generally, we thought the ‘yes means yes’ sexual violence because we don’t fit into the experienced nonconsensual sexual contact that even in spaces where we should be in the made it a lot clearer. Then groups started gender roles society has deemed acceptable for (either penetration or sexual touching) safest spaces, we’re not safe.” telling us that they were encountering all kinds us based on the sex we were assigned at birth. involving physical force or incapacitation. Hunter called on MSU officials to implement of complex dynamics around consent.” We often report incidents to local LGBTQ Among female undergraduates, 24.8 broad educational outreach for the LGBT and He continued. organizations, like Equality Michigan, percent experienced completed or attempted gender non-conforming community about “It’s an interesting dynamic, sexual but much more rarely report to police/law nonconsensual penetration or sexual touching sexual violences, but also general education environment for the LGBTQ and gender non- enforcement – similar to the high amount of involving physical force or incapacitation, about the community to the larger university conforming communities,” he said. “We’re survey responses compared to the low amount while 11.7 percent were victims of completed community. just starting to understand that environment. of reports on campus. This speaks to the larger or attempted nonconsensual penetration State Sen. Curtis Hertel Jr., D-Meridian We need to continually work on it.” issues of homo/bi/transphobia that we often involving force or incapacitation. Township, said the findings – nationally and The results of the national study, he experience when we do overcome hurdles to For female survivors of nonconsensual at MSU – “confirmed what we already knew said, showed that while academics and report – being traumatized because the person penetration by physical force, 71.9 percent about sexual assault: it’s an epidemic.” administrators are working hard to address you report to stigmatizes you because of your did not report the incident. The primary He too called the numbers related to issues specific to the communities involved, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender reason given by students was they did not the LGBT and gender non-conforming the reality is “this just raises the bar.” expression.” consider the situation serious enough to communities “shocking,” and said the reports “This really raises the urgency on how Michigan State University noted in its report (60.7 percent). Other reasons included revealed, “It’s not just a heterosexual problem, quickly we need to understand and respond press release on the university specific survey feeling embarrassed, ashamed or that it was it’s an across the board problem.” to these issues,” he said. results that it had more work to do reaching too emotionally difficult (39.4 percent), or Hertel announced last week introduction the LGBT and gender non-conforming not thinking anything would be done about it of legislation to amend Michigan’s laws communities. Jason Cody, a spokesman (28.2 percent). regarding sex education curriculum to include

8 BTL | Sept. 24, 2015 www.PrideSource.com

Two out of every five homeless youth and one out of every Gearing Up For Success five youth in the child welfare system across the REC Announces 2015 Changes At Voices nation identifies as LGBT.

BY AJ TRAGER

DETROIT – Every year nonprofits around the state hold their annual fundraisers to thank their donors and to celebrate the work that had If we are in fact ever been accomplished over the previous year. going to lessen the number of Voices 2015, Ruth Ellis Center’s evening “ event held at the Waterview Loft at Port LGBT youth that end up being Detroit, included a silent auction, open bar, appetizers, performance by Bruce Vilanch rejected by their families and and a youth film screening with keynote not having opportunities for address given by REC Executive Director, Jerry Peterson. the future, we have got to move Hundreds of community members attended beyond providing the basic the evening celebration to honor the services Elliott Broom, Ruth Ellis Center board chair introducing Bruce Vilanch to the VIP guests at Voices 2015. BTL that REC provides to nearly 500 LGBT youth needs services for youth who Photo: AJ Trager every year. For some, the center may be an opportunity to get a hot meal or a hot shower, are out of homes. but for others the center may provide a safe space. And for some in the foster care of the juvenile justice system, REC becomes their ”– Jerry Peterson home. Two out of every five homeless youth and one out of every five youth in the child Ruth Ellis Center Executive Director, Jerry Peterson, presenting his Voices 2015 keynote address Sept. 17, welfare system across the nation identifies as directly following the showing of a short educational film directed by REC youth who wanted to show what is important in the activist life of the center’s young people. BTL Photo: AJ Trager LGBT. LGBT youth are over-represented in the juvenile justice system and in the identity- availability to a family advocate. The director that deserving young people in our community to-prison pipeline, where young people are of the Wayne County DHHS has agreed to can have order to help stabilize their lives and judged and punished on the basis of who they make six hours of the training mandatory for maximize their potential,” Peterson said to are and the circumstances of their family or all CPS workers in the district. Josh and Christian. identity. Youth Programs Director Jessie Fullenkamp The Ruth’s Angel Award is given out every “If we are in fact ever going to lessen the introduced a screening of a short educational year to an individual whose contributions number of LGBT youth that end up being Bruce Vilanch, six-time Emmy Award winner, singer, film produced by the youth leadership and to the center and its mission exceed all rejected by their families and not having songwriter and actor was the main attraction at Voices advocacy group of the participatory research expectations. This year’s award went to 2015. Vilanch livened up the crowd with his sharp opportunities for the future, we have got project that shared what is important in the Cynthia Smith, MSW, chief executive officer comedy and pizzazz. BTL Photo: AJ Trager to move beyond providing the basic needs activist life of the center’s young people. of Assured Family Services, a Michigan services for youth who are out of homes. We The documentary showcased unique LGBT nonprofit provider of juvenile justice and child have got to move forward and connect with youth experiences when interacting with the welfare neglect assessment and treatment systems and with families before they are child welfare system and how CPS policies services. Along with her professional success, separated from one another through whatever towards the treatment of LGBT youth can Smith is the co-author of “Advocating process,” Peterson pressed. be improved. Success - A Groundbreaking Approach to To implement this strategy, Peterson Through direct service and advocacy, Ruth Juvenile Justice,” a handbook that provides announced a new contract beginning Oct. Ellis Center will expand its relationship with the foundation for policy direction and 1, with the Wayne County Department of the Department of Human Services through vendor accountability in a performance-based Health and Human Services, where two REC the family and group decision making project, juvenile services system. staff train 320 CPS workers with the goal which will look at youth and their families Lead sponsors for this year’s Voices of reducing the rejecting behaviors of the who are in the system so that they maintain event include: LEAR Corporation, Quicken family, increase safety and permanency for heathy and supportive connections and ideally Loans, Bank of America, EY, Strategic the youth in the home and make sure youth stay in the home. Josh and Christian, youth Staffing Solutions, PNC Bank, Henry Grix are provided opportunities to stay with their highlighted in the film, received certificates & Howard Israel, Jeff Antaya & Peter family of origin. of recognition directly following the showing. Rosenfeld, Comerica Bank, General Electric Wayne County CPS workers will learn how The Ruth’s Angel Award is given out every year to an “I honor you – we honor you – and all of the GLBTA alliance, MGM Grand Detroit, Allen to recognize abuse and neglect of the youth individual whose contributions to the center and its other people who come and benefit from Ruth Brothers, WDET Detroit, St. John Providence in response to the sexual orientation, gender mission exceed all expectations. This year’s award Ellis Center. So, I thank you on their behalf and Pridesource Media Group. Centerpieces went to Cynthia Smith, MSW, chief executive officer of identity or gender expression. The identified for being here, for showing up, for finding were donated by Wesley Berry Flowers and Assured Family Services, a Michigan nonprofit provider families may be referred to REC for up to 13 of juvenile justice and child welfare neglect assessment your voice, for finding a way to speak out and silent auction staging was provided by Lisa months of intensive services with 24-hour and treatment services. make sure that the resources are available so Gift Wrappers.

10 BTL | Sept. 24, 2015 www.PrideSource.com LGBT Support Service Center Opens In Muskegon County BY AJ TRAGER

MUSKEGON – The first ever LGBT community center is opening up in Muskegon County, serving Muskegon and surrounding areas. The LGBT Support Services Center will have a grand opening from 1-3 p.m. and again from 5-7 p.m. on Sept. 23 to celebrate the first ever LGBT center in the Muskegon area, offering resources, support, social opportunities, education and referrals to people from all sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions. Rev. Robert Teszlewicz, executive director of the center, began the Muskegon LGBT Support Services Center project late last year I read this article about Leelah directly following the suicide of trans youth Alcorn; I thought, ‘Oh hell no.’ That was Leelah Alcorn. He has a degree in social “ work and has been professionally and socially what motivated me to say it is time involved in helping the LGBT community for most of his life. to jump back into the saddle. “I’ve been involved with the community for decades, and I did a lot of social work for years,” Teszlewicz said. “I’ve always had lots – Rev. Robert Teszlewicz, Executive Director, LGBT” Support of LGBT clients, too. I’ve been on Facebook Service Center, Muskegon County a lot and had more and more people contact me about opening the center. I read this article “I’ve spoken to so many kids around the about Leelah Alcorn; I thought, ‘Oh hell no.’ country and around the world about the That was what motivated me to say it is time struggles that the trans community faces, and to jump back into the saddle.” I feel so strongly towards being an advocate,” Teszlewicz has spent the last 40 years as a Teszelwicz said. social worker, a high school counselor, a high The center will host a variety of services school teacher, foster parent and as a reverend for the Muskegon area including drop in and of the Catholic Apostolic Church. He has a hang out areas for both LGBT youth and young long history of offering up his home to the adults and is currently working on a directory LGBT community. Teszlewicz spent much of services in the area. Teszlewicz would also of his time in the late 1980s housing foster like to open dialogue with Muskegon schools care children who were HIV affected and and have more GSAs present for students. has recently sold his home to fund the LGBT The center will be home to a host of Support Services Center. programs and services including: support groups, life planning, AA/NA groups, mental health referrals, anti-bullying, family intervention services and help in the coming out process. The space will also be available for social gatherings. LGBT Support Services will be entirely volunteer driven. Around seven volunteers came forth and helped Teszlewicz remodel the space with one volunteer willing to write grants for the center. “I’ve done everything: holding the hand of a kid dying of AIDS, and I’ve seen kids blossom. It’s all good. The community backlash is going to get worse between now and the 2016 elections. There isn’t any shortage of ignorance around,” Teszelwicz said. The LGBT Support Services Center is located at 2542 Peck St. in Muskegon Heights. Visit the website at www.lgbtsupportservices.org. Free parking will be available in the lot behind the facility or on the street. www.PrideSource.com Sept. 24, 2015 | BTL 11 Affirmations Names New Senior The Legal Ripple Effect From Marriage Equality Director Of Operations Lilianna Reyes Promoted To Youth BY AJ TRAGER Program Manager FERNDALE – In a community conversation discussing the legal changes same-sex couples will face BY BTL STAFF as a result of marriage equality, Miller Canfield highlighted how, compared to FERNDALE – After a short search to fill the position, other states, Michigan is far behind in Affirmations recently added to its senior staff – promoting preparing for legal changes resulting one staff member and hiring from the U.S. Supreme Court decision. another. Jennifer LaTosch and Lynn Sirich, The search to fill the attorneys and counselors at law, presented director of operations their seminar, “Marriage Equality: New position started in June just Legalities,” to a group of 30 people Sept. before the U.S. Supreme 16 at Affirmations. LaTosch and Sirich Court Decision. Shyam outlined how Michigan is dragging Suchak, communications its feet when it comes to amending graduate from the University documents and policies for married, or of Toledo with an M.A. in soon to be married, same-sex couples. organizational leadership “Michigan didn’t prepare for this. from Lourdes University, Our governor, our legislators and our joins Affirmations as the attorney general were fighting a case new director of operations. trying to keep the (same-sex marriage) “Shyam represents one ban going, and they didn’t think about of my most significant what the ramifications would be if they Jennifer LaTosch and Lynn Sirich from Miller Canfield discussed some legal changes that are a direct Shyam Suchak hires since joining the lost,” LaTosch said. result of marriage equality Sept. 16 and highlighted the importance of speaking with a law professional organization,” stated When other states had started preparing about these changes. BTL Photo: AJ Trager Affirmations’ Executive legislative and legal statute changes due Director Darrious D. to a possible marriage equality ruling tax returns. Now, if a marriage was opposite-sex couples often take for Hilmon. “He is not only from SCOTUS, Michigan sat dormant. recognized at the federal level, a couple granted, such as custody, parenting and well-qualified to take the Thus, adoption, family planning, current can file amended, joint-returns for the support rights. center’s operation and HR state planning documents, real estate past four years, LaTosch said. LaTosch outlined other ways that function to the next level, documents, prenuptial agreements, post- Pre and post-nuptial agreements can Michigan couples are seeking joint- he’s kind-hearted and cares nuptial agreements, tax planning issues, be drafted to protect the assets of either protections for their children such as an deeply about others.” marriage and divorce are all affected partner prior to the wedding date. Sirich Affidavit of Parentage, often applied to As director of operations by the shift in state law, extending and suggests a review of established estate opposite-sex couples who have children Suchak will serve as the expanding many of these rights to same- planning every three to five years and out of wedlock, which shows intent center’s internal leader, sex couples. encourages people to create a trust, to protect and take responsibility for overseeing the day-to- “I have no great hope that they are which will avoid the entanglements of the child but may fall circumstance day operations and human going to fix a lot of these things real fast, probate law. to the Revocation of Paternity Act, Lilianna Reyes resources functions so what we’re going to try and have to do To ensure that children are protected to which would find the second parent not including training, is find some stop-gap measures to figure the best of the parents’ ability, the team biologically related to the child and could development, performance out the best way to find protections for at Miller Canfield suggests that married revoke the gained rights. To combat this, evaluation and recruiting. ourselves and our kids until Michigan same-sex couples seek a “second” or LaTosch suggests filing for a second- Previously, Shyam served as director of community catches up with federal law,” LaTosch step-parent adoption. The Michigan parent adoption. Information regarding programs, operations, and organizational development said. Marriage Amendment defined marriage second-parent adoptions can be found at Anne Grady Services, providing leadership to three All marriages performed are now as between a man and a woman. Now at a local county clerk’s office. departments with approximately 150 employees. recognized under U.S. law. Before post-SCOTUS, step-parent adoptions “The ripple effect from this will Formally known as program coordinator for the youth seeking a Michigan marriage license, allow both parents to be listed as legal span decades,” LaTosch said. “Talk services department, Lilianna Reyes has been promoted to LaTosch and Sirich emphasized the guardians of the child and extend a to a professional with every step that youth program manager and assumes lead accountability importance of terminating old marriages number of protections to both parents you do before you just jump in and do for youth programming at the center including the Carl or civil unions that occurred before the such as hospitalization rights and many something.” Rippberger Youth Drop-In Center and the newly erected U.S. Supreme Court ruling in June. day-to-day protections that married evidenced-based XTL (Cross the Line) Youth Workforce These prior situations can cause legal Development Program and the XTL Youth Leadership complications down the pipeline. Development Program. Same-sex couples can now benefit “Lilianna is a force of nature, and the perfect blend of from the same estate laws and gift-tax Michigan didn’t prepare for this. Our governor, our talent and passion,” stated Hilmon. “Her work developing and advantages that heterosexual couples implementing outcomes – driven, transformational programs enjoy. Same-gender spouses will now legislators and our attorney general were fighting a case trying – makes her an invaluable member of my team.” “ have intestacy rights, be given priority to keep the (same-sex marriage) ban going, and they didn’t think A graduate of the University of Michigan Rackham to be named as a conservator or guardian Graduate School, Reyes has measureable experience working over their spouse and can finally file joint about what the ramifications would be if they lost. with marginalized populations including people of color, state tax returns. LGBTQ communities and HIV positive communities. She Previously married same-sex couples serves on the Board of The Trans Sistas of Color Project. in Michigan filed upwards of five ” - Jennifer LaTosch 12 BTL | Sept. 24, 2015 www.PrideSource.com Trans Autism Activist To Speak At V To Shining V BY AJ TRAGER event in 2014, where she shared her feminist experience as a transgender woman. DETROIT – Michigan Trans Autism “The fact that we had trans and cis people Activist, Dr. Mira Krishnan, is scheduled there, black and white and brown people, as a keynote speaker in the second annual straight and LGBT people – that’s where you V To Shining V. The event was designed see how diverse the movement really is, and by the creator of “The Daily Show,” Lizz you see how interconnected all the issues we Winstead, to celebrate womenfolk and their experience as women are,” Krishnan said. “I accomplishments and successes. was grateful my message was welcomed and V To Shining V will be held Sept. 26 and is a we all had a chance to learn from each other. product of Lady Parts Justice, a rapid response That’s how we move this movement forward.” collective founded in 2012 that uses comedy, Krishnan is eager to speak again at V to culture and digital media to bring awareness Shining V Detroit 2015 and lend her voice to to the state of women’s reproductive rights the Lady Parts Justice organization. and access to safe and secure sexual health “I love the unapologetic nature of Lady care so people will get “off their asses and Parts Justice, and the humor it brings to the reclaim their rights.” (feminist) movement,” Krishnan said. “The Lady Parts Justice pays homage to former fight can be draining, so it’s good to have some Michigan state Rep. Lisa Brown, who – while humor to help keep us marching forward. in office – was banned from the House floor And I am unapologetic about my feminism. I’m not sorry for thinking women deserve reproductive freedom.”

Part of the reason women don’t“ act like the majority is that women look at the movement and they don’t see themselves.

- Dr. ”Mira Krishnan

This year’s event will be hosted by LPJer stand-up comic Alex English with for using the word vagina when arguing performances by musician Kelly Elizabeth, against a transvaginal ultrasound bill. She later slam poet Jassmine Parks, poet Sadia Ghazi, asked what term she “should” use instead and BIKINI KILL tribute band Tankini Kill and DJ members of the House suggested something Sense from the all-female hip hop collective less provocative, like “lady parts.” The Foundation. Other activities will include Featured speakers include former House a silent auction of art and gifts all donated by representative and County Clerk Lisa Brown; local businesses and organizations. Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence; Executive V to Shining V kicks off promptly at 3 Director of the ACLU of Michigan, Kary p.m. Sept. 26 with opening remarks from Moss; Dr. Krishnan, a behavioral health leader Lisa Brown at PJs Lager House located and advocate for children’s, women’s and at 1254 Michigan Ave., Detroit. Cost of LGBT issues and Renee Chelian, owner of attendance is a suggested $5 donation and Northland Family Planning Clinics. all ages are welcome to join. All funds raised “Part of the reason women don’t act from the event will support the work of Lady like the majority (now 51 percent of the Parts Justice, which includes education and U.S. population) is that women look at the outreach in support of women’s reproductive movement and they don’t see themselves,” justice. Lady Parts Justice is a project of the says Krishnan. “The fact is that women Sixteen-Thirty Fund, a 501(c)(4) organization. are really diverse, and working together on something like V to Shining V is one way we For more information go to www.facebook.com/ come together.” Krishnan spoke at the inaugural Detroit LPJMichigan or visit www.ladypartsjustice.com. www.PrideSource.com Sept. 24, 2015 | BTL 13 Candles At Both Ends Parting Glances OPINION BY CHARLES ALEXANDER

“I’m burning my candle at both ends. It will not last the night. But, oh, my foes, and, ah, my friends. It gives a lovely light!” These words are by bisexual poet Edna St. Vincent Millay (1892- 1950), the subject of a fascinating best-selling biography, “Savage Beauty,” by Nancy Milford (Random House). Millay’s poetry – touching, independent, light, feminist, sardonic – is once again reaching new, younger audiences, many LGBT. My acquaintance with her poetic gifts began with her sonnets. When I was getting over my first “big gay affair,” I memorized Millay’s “Time does not bring relief/ All you have lied who told me time would ease me of my pain./ I miss him in the weeping of the rain/ I want him in the shrinking of the tide ...” Pain indeed. I was 23 and into my fourth year of a rewarding affair when I was dumped by my partner Ernie for a soldier on leave named Joe. (Ernie and I were working at Discount Records in downtown Detroit. Joe was a hunky customer.) Soon I met new friends at the Woodward Bar, circa 1959: Tom, Paul and Jonya, each of whom I found out was a bona fide candle queen. My first dinner in their enlightened company was midsummer. It could just as well have been Christmas for all the flickering-fairy, highlighted enchantment I walked in to. I think I counted three dozen candles of varying sizes, shapes, scents Transmissions in strategic places of the living room. The effect was wonderful, but I began to worry. Was a group seduction planned? Was all this flicker and flare to enhance the taste of mediocre food? (Another tuna-potato-chip casserole!) Were we going to have an impromptu rosary? Rocky Road The simple truth is that these guys loved candles. Jonya, who was Dutch, took pride in a family silver heirloom, once hidden during the Nazi occupation of his country. He called the candle holder a “SHANdalabra,” which made his lover Paul smile indulgently. I think I saw Jonya genuflect as he lit the candles gracing the dining BY Gwendolyn Ann Smith for decades, pelting the screen and her friends as “dumb” for not table. A carpenter by trade, his rough hands lovingly arranged flowers with props, shouting “call back enjoying “Rocky Horror.” as well, of which there was also an abundance on display that festive lines,” and generally behaving Sometime around 1982 I first night. ometimes I am reminded that like a freak while surrounded by saw a private showing of “Rocky Tom, who was with Paul before Jonya (and the son of a Detroit I’m not a spring chicken. scores of others letting their freak Horror,” courtesy of a bad VHS copy precinct police captain), took pleasure in an elaborate dime store- SIndeed, I’ve been public as a flag fly. This was a youth culture of a bad VHS copy off a showing bought fountain in the living room. He called it Miss Trevi. It held transwoman for 22 years now, and growing out of the era of Ziggy of the movie. I was entranced by plants, glass beads, ice cubes, gold fish. The water’s color varied from that is still less than half my life. Stardust, simultaneously moving the movie, and amazed by the party to party, augmented by leftover Manhattans. I’ve got a bit more gray in my hair forward from and disillusioned by seemingly pervasive attitudes of Little wonder that Miss Trevi gurgled, occasionally burped and than I’m altogether comfortable with the hippies. “Rocky Horror” was both my friends who took me, and wheezed. Compliments given to this bubbling contraption usually and a growing crop of wrinkles to like the weekly church ritual for this the others present. resulted in amply free-poured drinks by proud-owner Tom. my skin. subculture. I would see the film again the Alone in my cluttered art studio these days, I often light a candle Recently, another trans friend The film also gained a lot of next night, and many other times and watch shadows dance softly, silently, so sadly empty, on my walls. of mine – one who was yet to start trans devotees. Here was a movie since. Eventually, I scored my own Images of the past appear. Wink. And vanish. pre-school when I was coming out with a main character hailing scratchy VHS bootleg a few years Paul has been married for 45 years to Susan, “a wonderfully to friends and family – was relating from “Transsexual Transylvania,” before an official release became understanding wife.” Jonya died of a heart attack aboard ship during to me something she’d seen another parading across the screen in bold available. As a result, I cannot tell a return visit to Amsterdam. Tom, who in 1972 was told that because older transwoman doing. makeup and a black-and-glitter body you how many times I have seen he had an abused pancreas his next drink “would be it,” ignored the The argument stemmed from that briefer. Costuming was welcomed at “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” warning. He was 36. underground classic of 1975 cinema, showings, even expected, allowing but I’m sure it’s scores upon scores Ernie and I are in touch. He lives in Florida, the president of a “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.” one to be accepted in public while of times. successful video arts recording company. He has been with his third For the uninitiated, the film – and donning their own crossgender look. As much as I can sing along with partner, Tom, for over 40 years. Joe, a local struggling actor, died before that, a play – is a parody It was a big deal in the 1970s and “Superheroes” or rattle off call- last year. of schlocky sci-fi films, featuring 1980s, and that seemed to be the backs throughout the floor show, Me? I’m still burning my candle at both ends. And – if you really a “mad scientist” character with a point this other older transwoman however, I also know that those must know – my vanilla-flavored wick has waxed somewhat shorter. penchant for women’s lingerie. seemed to want to make to my young transwomen are not dumb, But it flickers ever so brightly. Now and then. The movie itself spawned a near- younger friend. Unfortunately, that and that they very much have a religious following of fans who isn’t how it came out: Rather, she Have a rainbow day. [email protected] would attend midnight showings branded this younger transwoman See Transmissions, next page

14 BTL | Sept. 24, 2015 www.PrideSource.com far beyond the few scraps we could dig up ® Transmissions way back when. If those are not enough, too, Continued from p. 14 we have the wealth of the World Wide Web to points up hither and yon, providing panoply point. of possibilities. The story is problematic if we look at it with So where does “The Rocky Horror Picture modern eyes. The main character is a cross- Show” belong today? dresser who is also a sex-obsessed sociopath For those of us old enough to remember that who ends up – sorry for the spoiler – dead in first strange taste of a broader world, it will the final reel. Frank N. Furter is just not going always have a fond spot in our hearts. This to make the realest of positive transgender movie was one of those things that gave us role models, nor can the film be considered hope, showed us possibility, or otherwise kept a positive one for transgender people on its us going from week to week. I’m reluctant to own. This knowing that the film was also made toss it on the dustbin of history, knowing that it while Richard O’Brien, its screenwriter, was was vital to so many back then. Without what dealing with his own gender identity. it provided then – problematic or not – we While many who attended those showings would not be where we are now. were a sort of family, and usually very At the same time, this is not 1975, and we accepting, the crowds also included plenty of cannot look at “The Rocky Horror Picture people there simply to “sneer at the queers.” Show” as part of the world of today’s That was all we had. Perhaps it’s a bit like transfolks any more than we can expect to see being on a desert island with only a coconut polyester leisure suits on the runways. tree to sustain you: you’ll develop quite a taste I can remember the joy I had at midnight for that particular fruit. showings, and that isn’t going to go away. Yet We live in very different times today, and I can also acknowledge that is a part of my transgender people are not strangers on far- history, and not something I expect everyone flung isles. In the 40 years since the movie today to live through. We don’t expect came out, we have developed true role models people to use a typewriter when a computer amongst ourselves. We have gained rights that is available, nor should we expect every we did not have in 1975, from local laws about transperson to have our same experience. wearing cross-gender clothing to Title VII I may be older now, but I hope to never be protections under the law. We have movies and so set in my ways to not acknowledge change. television shows to choose from, that represent Gwen Smith never was in a shadow cast. You can many forms of gender identity and expression find her on Twitter at @gwenners.

www.PrideSource.com Sept. 24, 2015 | BTL 15 Fiorina Shines, Bush ‘Contorts’ To Right, Walker And Perry Gone

By Lisa Keen The candidates took on the People posting on the Log Cabin issue of whether Kentucky Republican’s Facebook timeline last Wednesday night overwhelmingly county clerk Kim Davis should agreed that business executive be able to refuse marriage Carly Fiorina was the winner. Of the 117 responses to the open thread licenses to same-sex couples. question, “Who won the debate?” last Wednesday night, 50 said former Hewlett-Packard CEO Fiorina and Fiorina calling out opponent Donald 27 said U.S. Senator Marco Rubio Trump for making an unkind remark of Florida. The next closest tally – about her face. He was referring, not 11 – was for pediatric neurosurgeon to her response at the debate but, to Ben Carson. a campaign ad, “Look at this Face.” The tally from the national LGBT The ad shows the faces of many Republican group mirrored the women with Fiorina saying in the reactions of most observers. And background that these are the faces by Monday, Sept. 21, support for of leadership. Fiorina had catapulted her into Corbin said he found Fiorina’s second place, behind real estate response hypocritical, given mogul Donald Trump. A CNN poll that she “mocked” U.S. Senate of 444 registered voters nationwide opponent Barbara Boxer’s hair as in the four days after the debate “so yesterday” during their race in showed 24 percent support Trump, 2010. 15 percent Fiorina, 14 percent “Such a double standard,” wrote Carson, and 11 percent Rubio. All Corbin. “Fiorina can say nasty things the other candidates, including Jeb about Boxer’s hair but her mug is off Bush at 9 points, were in the single limits? Ridiculous.” digits. Corbin co-chaired an LGBT arm Most observers commended of the first Obama for President campaign. Republican presidential candidate, businesswoman Carly Fiorina, right, leads fellow candidates Scott Walker, second from right, Fiorina for answering often complex Jeb Bush, center, and Donald Trump as they take the stage prior to the CNN Republican presidential debate at the Ronald Reagan foreign policy questions with Presidential Library and Museum on Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2015, in Simi Valley, Calif. AP Photo/Chris Carlson informed, detailed and decisive answers. For instance, when asked Bush Leans More To how they would deal with Russian The Right Bush told reporters earlier this male prisoners but not to Davis, who should be some accommodation President Vladimir Putin sending month that Davis “is sworn to said she was asserting her Christian for her conscience, just as there military arms into Syria, Trump said While Fiorina’s performance uphold the law” but that there beliefs in denying marriage licenses should be for people that are florists he’d “talk” and “get along” with and her boost in the polls were the “ought to be big enough space for to same-sex couples. that don’t want to participate in Putin. Fiorina said she’d rebuild the big news out of last Wednesday’s her to act on her conscience...” “What else is it other than the weddings, or bakers. A great country Sixth Fleet and the missile defense debate, there was considerable CNN moderator Jake Tapper noted criminalization of her faith and the like us should find a way to have program in Poland, conduct military sparring over at least one LGBT- that candidate Mike Huckabee had exaltation of the faith of everyone accommodations for people so that exercises in the Baltic states, and related issue during the five-hour- called the detention of Davis for else who might be a Fort Hood we can solve the problem in the send a few thousand more troops long, two-tier event. contempt of court as tantamount to shooter or a detainee at Gitmo?” right way. This should be solved at into Germany. The candidates took on the issue the “criminalization of Christianity.” asked Huckabee. Neither of these the local level. And so, we do agree, Many also liked how she handled of whether Kentucky county clerk He then noted that Bush had said cases had religious accommodation. Mike.” Trump’s remark to Rolling Stone Kim Davis should be able to refuse Davis was “sworn to uphold the law” “I’m not telling you that, Gregory Angelo, president of the magazine that he couldn’t believe marriage licenses to same-sex and asked Huckabee if Bush is “on Governor,” said Tapper. “But national Log Cabin Republicans anyone would “vote for that” – couples. The only real news that the wrong side of the criminalization Governor Bush is, because he group, said he found that answer referring to Fiorina’s face. CNN emerged from that was Jeb Bush’s of Christianity?” disagrees. He thinks Kim Davis “confusing.” moderator Jake Tapper invited step to the right to agree with Mike Huckabee said, “No,” and then swore to uphold the law.” “There are contortions that certain Fiorina to “feel free to respond Huckabee. launched into a heavily opinionated “You’re not stating my views candidates are twisting themselves what you think about his persona.” discourse about the Kentucky right,” said Bush. “I think there into unnecessarily with the Kim Rather than take the bait to return controversy. Among other things, needs to be accommodation for Davis issue,” said Angelo. the insult to Trump, Fiorina said, “I he claimed the U.S. Supreme Court someone acting on faith. Religious But overall, said Angelo, the think women all over this country I think there needs “legislated” a new pro-same-sex conscience is a first freedom. It’s a candidates last Wednesday “merely heard very clearly what Mr. Trump to be accommodation marriage law “out of thin air.” powerful part of our Bill of Rights. reinforced statements made in the said” – a line that drew a boisterous “ (In fact, the court determined that And, in a big, tolerant country, past.” cheer from the debate audience. for someone acting existing state laws banning same- we should respect the rule of law, “I have noticed one thing that Not everyone was praising Fiorina sex couples from marriage violate allow people in this country – I was differentiates (this debate) from after the debate. Stampp Corbin, on faith. the U.S. Constitution.) And he opposed to the (Supreme Court) 2012 – it’s the willingness to talk publisher of San Diego LGBT claimed the government “made decision, but we – you can’t just about LGBT issues and a degree Weekly, posted an op-ed in his paper, accommodations” for religious say, ‘Well, they – gays can’t get of sympathy and respect that was noting the “ridiculous hypocrisy” of ” - Jeb Bush beliefs in the treatment of Muslim married now.’ But this woman, there sorely missing from 2012 cycle.” 16 BTL | Sept. 24, 2015 www.PrideSource.com BY D’ANNE Witkowski

ust out the rainbow M16 assault Sandra Smith asked rifles because things are about Huckabee what Bto get FABULOUS! The United his deal was with Mike Huckabee States Army is about to become the criticizing Fanning world’s biggest pride parade thanks to since he “is widely President Obama’s nomination of Eric seen as very qualified Fanning for secretary of the Army. for the job.” The only thing you need to know about “He may be very Fanning is that he’s a gay! What other qualified for the job,” qualifications does one possibly need to he said, “and if he essentially be the CEO of the U.S. Army? is, then nominate Well, lots, actually. And Fanning’s him because he’s credentials are pretty impeccable. He’s qualified to lead the currently serving as the undersecretary Army, not because of the Army and his list of qualifications of his sexual is so long it would take up my entire orientation. Why are column space. But if you ask Mike they making such a Huckabee, R-Will Never Be President, big deal and talking about it?” Obama just picked the first guy to come By “they” he means the Obama up on Grindr. administration. There is, of course, no On Sept. 19, Huckabee took evidence that Fanning was nominated I just think this to Facebook to criticize Fanning’s because of his sexual orientation nor is president is so into symbolism, nomination. there any evidence that Obama just can’t “ “It’s clear President Obama is more shut up about how gay Fanning is. so into trying to prove to interested in appeasing America’s Huckabee, on the other hand, cannot everybody that he’s this homosexuals than honoring America’s shut up about it. heroes,” the Huckster wrote. “Veterans “I had people who were gay who open-minded guy. suicide is out-of-control and military worked on my staff, who have served in readiness is dangerously low, yet Obama my administration when I was governor. is so obsessed with pandering to liberal I never went around saying, ‘Hey, I’ve - Mike Huckabee interest groups he’s nominated an got some homosexuals that are working ” openly gay civilian to run the Army. for me.’ What’s the point? If they’re make nice with the gays by throwing Homosexuality is not a job qualification.” qualified, hire them.” them a nomination or two. I’m not sure what Huckabee means Oh, so Huckabee has worked with “I just feel like that the president has when he says that Obama is all about known homosexuals, eh? Well then he made this such an agenda,” Huckabee the gays at the expense of “America’s couldn’t possibly be homophobic. continued, “and the agenda for the heroes.” Is he saying that Obama should “I just think this president is so into military is to focus on the best qualified have nominated a military officer symbolism, so into trying to prove to people, because we’re talking about life instead? The secretary of the Army is everybody that he’s this open-minded and death issues. And if he thinks Eric a civilian position, which Huckabee guy,” Huckabee said, “maybe he’s trying Fanning is the best for the job, nominate should know. I guess he’s saying that to make up for the fact that until, gosh, him, but leave his sexual orientation the mere act of nominating a homo is a what, just three years ago, he still took out of it.” dishonor to our troops. the position that many of us do, and that You hear that, Fanning! Back into But it’s not like Obama just nominated is that marriage, for example, is a biblical the closet for you, for the good of the Nathan Lane. Even Fox News saw issue, and it is between a man and a country. And so Huckabee can find through Huckabee’s homophobic woman. He had this sudden revelation something else to obsess about other than bullshit. that it is not that way anymore.” how super gay you are. On a Fox Business morning show, host In other words, Obama is trying to

www.PrideSource.com Sept. 24, 2015 | BTL 17 Report: Unique Challenges Poll Shows Clear Public Faced By Older Gay Residents Opposition To Allowing BOSTON (AP) – Aging lesbian, gay, Employees To Discriminate bisexual and transgender residents in Massachusetts face unique challenges, Against LGBT Couples according to a report released Sept. 17 by a WASHINGTON – Amidst the constant special legislative commission. media coverage of Kentucky clerk Kim Davis The report offers a number of and her refusal to issue same-sex marriage recommendations to address the needs of licenses citing religious freedom, a recent poll LGBT seniors, including the development conducted by the Human Rights Campaign of inclusive elder housing communities shows that a majority of Americans do not and protections against discrimination for support allowing government officials or transgender people in nursing homes and public employees to discriminate against other health facilities. LGBT couples on religious grounds. The 20-member commission was created The survey was conducted in a period of in 2013 by lawmakers and then-Gov. Deval four days in early September and consisted Patrick, and has been called the first statewide of 1,000 phone interviews. Survey results Michigan Non Profit Resource panel of its kind in the nation. show that more than two-thirds are opposed While Massachusetts was the first state to to governmental employees denying service legalize gay marriage, the report notes that to LGBT people on the basis of their personal Have You Experienced Discrimination? many of its older LGBT citizens came of age religious beliefs. A 60 percent majority of in far less tolerant times. If you or someone you know has experienced discrimination, intimidation, harassment or violence voters also said that they would be less likely because of sexual orientation, gender expression or gender identity, “The lives of today’s older lesbian, gay to support a candidate for president who contact Equality Michigan's Department of Victim Services at: bisexual and transgender people were molded supported legislation that allowed for this under conditions of intense homophobia, behavior. both during their formative years, as well “The overwhelming majority of public [email protected] or call 1-866-962-1147 as throughout much of their adult lives,” the Equality Michigan is working with state legislators to update the Ethnic Intimidation Act to include proper officials across the country are issuing protections for the gay and transgender community. commission wrote. marriage licenses to all couples, including To get involved in the movement for better hate crimes law, contact [email protected]. The stigma attached to homosexuality same-sex couples, because upholding the rule caused many LGBT people to become of law is the right thing to do. Now it’s clear estranged from their families and have that the American people agree, and will have Hundreds more resources can be found at www.PrideSource.com difficulty holding jobs, the report said. As a no patience with public employees who want result, many lived on the margins of society to use their private religious views as an excuse and even now feel reluctant about seeking to deny equal treatment to LGBT people mainstream services available to other elders. under the law,” said JoDee Winterhof, HRC LGBT seniors are also less likely to have senior vice president for policy and political children, close family members or partners affairs. “These results are a clear warning who can assist with daily living tasks and help that members of Congress who want to move them make important health care decisions. forward with so-called ‘religious liberty’ bills The report calls for improved training for do so at their own peril.” elder service staffs on the “unique experiences The survey found that a 60 percent majority and needs of LGBT seniors.” of voters would be less likely to support Though the state’s record on gay and a candidate for president who supported lesbian issues is largely progressive, it has legislation that allowed for this behavior. A fallen short in a key area of housing, the bipartisan 68 percent of those polled oppose commission said. allowing government employees the ability “Boston and other Massachusetts cities to deny service to LGBT people; however, are lagging behind Los Angeles, Chicago, 24 percent of respondents would support Philadelphia and San Francisco, which have allowing government employees to cite their all developed vibrant housing initiatives that religious beliefs as a reason to deny service are friendly and inclusive of LGBT older to LGBT people adults,” the report stated. “Unfortunately, While Republican candidates running for Massachusetts has nothing like this.” president have been split on the circumstances surrounding Davis’ refusal to do her job, many have been much more vocal in support of the so-called “First Amendment Defense Act,” which would allow government employees to cite religious objections and argues that they would not be required to serve same-sex couples.

Extended briefs are available online at: >> www.PrideSource.com

18 BTL | Sept. 24, 2015 www.PrideSource.com HIV Pill-Lawsuit: Man Claims Bias Over Use Of HIV-Blocking Drug

BOSTON (AP) – As a gay man, the Boston The man, who is identified only as attorney thought he was doing the responsible thing when he asked his doctor to prescribe John Doe in the complaint, said Truvada, a drug hailed as a way to halt the spread of AIDS. But when he tried to get long- he wants to make sure that he term care insurance, Mutual of Omaha turned him down, saying it does not offer coverage and anyone else taking Truvada to anyone who takes the drug. Now, the man is planning to sue the insurer, can get long-term care insurance, alleging he was discriminated against because he is gay. He filed a complaint Wednesday which covers daily, extended- with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, the first step in a lawsuit. care services for people with The man, who is identified only as John Doe in the complaint, said he wants to make sure chronic illnesses or disabilities. that he and anyone else taking Truvada can get long-term care insurance, which covers daily, extended-care services for people with chronic illnesses or disabilities. He also wants to ensure that people are not deterred from using Truvada because they fear who lives in Boston, said he began taking they will face discrimination. Truvada about a year ago after discussing it “I was shocked. I really was,” Doe told The with his doctor. He said he has lost dozens of Associated Press in interview at the offices friends to AIDS and cannot understand the of Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders, a rationale behind rejecting his application for Boston-based legal group that is representing long-term coverage when Truvada is believed him. He spoke on condition of anonymity to reduce his risk of HIV. His long-time partner because his complaint contains private medical also is HIV-negative. information. “I lived through the Holocaust of people “I thought maybe they misunderstood me. dying from AIDS. I was doing my little part I’m HIV-negative. I’m not HIV-positive. I was to stop that,” he said. taking Truvada as a prophylactic.” He said he received a letter in April from Bennett Klein, director of GLAD’s AIDS a chief underwriter for Mutual of Omaha Law Project, calls the decision “nonsensical.” denying his appeal. “We do not offer coverage “It’s really based on the stereotypes and the to anyone who takes the medication Truvada, fears that are out there, that somehow gay male regardless of whether it is prescribed to treat sexuality is inherently risky and unhealthy,” HIV infection, or is used for pre-exposure Klein said. “We have a lot of bias about gay prophylaxis. This in accordance with our male sexuality in our society.” underwriting guidelines,” the letter said, Truvada was first approved by the U.S. according to the complaint. Food and Drug Administration in 2004 to be Doe alleges that Mutual of Omaha used in combination with other medications to discriminated against him based on sexual treat people with HIV. In 2012, the FDA made orientation and disability, in this case, an it the first drug approved for pre-exposure assumption that Doe will in the future contract prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce the risk of HIV HIV, a health condition covered by the state’s infection in uninfected people. antidiscrimination law. The Centers for Disease Control and Dr. Kenneth Mayer, a professor at Harvard Prevention says taking Truvada consistently Medical School and director of HIV Prevention has been shown to reduce the risk of HIV Research at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical transmission in people who are at risk by up Center in Boston, said he doesn’t understand to 92 percent. why Mutual of Omaha would reject an Critics of Truvada say widespread use could applicant for long-term care insurance because lead to an increase in condom-less sex and new he is taking Truvada. HIV infections because people will forget to “The last thing we want to do is discourage take the pill it every day. people from using this preventive mediation,” Mutual of Omaha declined to comment on Mayer said. “The goal is to eradicate the the complaint. number of new HIV infections.” “We have not seen the complaint and it’s our practice not to comment on potential litigation,” said Jim Nolan, a company Extended briefs are available online at: spokesman. >> www.PrideSource.com Doe, a 61-year-old attorney and businessman www.PrideSource.com Sept. 24, 2015 | BTL 19 Photo: Philippe Bossé ‘Stonewall’ Actor, Director Talk ‘Whitewashing’ Controversy, Emotional Brick-Scene Shoot & Onscreen Sex

By Chris Azzopardi and counting. Danny’s band of fellow rioters: Marsha P. Day: Resurgence,” “they kept it away from The issue, according to Cordova-Goff and Johnson (Otoja Abit), a black transwoman me.” Blowback from a mere two-minute-and- other opponents: Its ivory lead, Jeremy Irvine who co-founded Street Transvestite Action “Only for so long, however,” he continues. twenty-three-second trailer of “Stonewall” as small-town-turned-big-city rebel Danny Revolutionaries with prominent trans “After a while, you kind of know what’s stormed the web in early August. It was Winters, is white. activist Sylvia Rivera, and a lesbian credited going on. I was shocked. Luckily, I had intense. Like the historic brick-throwing, And it’s true. He is not black. He is not by some as initiating the riot, calling on some gay activists, like Larry Kramer, speak slur-lashing brawl that broke out in New York Puerto Rican. He is not female. But the others to “do something.” Breakout actor up for us.” (Kramer, the 80-year-old writer City outside a Greenwich Village gay bar in “Stonewall” ensemble, Irvine insists, is a Jonny Beauchamp also stars, playing self- and HIV activist, addressed Emmerich on 1969, it provoked an uproar. And also like the “wide, diverse cast.” The 25-year-old English proclaimed “street queen” Ray / Ramona, a Facebook: “Don’t listen to the crazies,” he Stonewall riots, the melting pot of people the actor fully acknowledges he expected a composite of both Rivera and jailed protester wrote. “And thank you for your passion.”) film sought to represent felt… unrepresented. passionate reaction to the film, particularly Raymond Castro. So: Why did Emmerich cast a white, as he “To all considering watching the newest because “we’re doing a story that is so Emmerich insists his dramatization, calls him, “catalyst character”? whitewashed version of queer history,” began important to so many people.” inspired by a distant friend’s real-life He says, simply, “You have to put yourself self-proclaimed 18-year-old “transwomyn of Irvine, though, did not foresee the kind of experience and also Emmerich’s own, is a little bit in, and I’m white.” color” Pat Cordova-Goff via the Gay-Straight pre-release revolt from those who claimed “inclusive”; that Irvine’s Danny is the lens “Stonewall” was never intended to focus Alliance Network, alleging the movie’s cast “Stonewall” underemphasized the trans through which we see these events unfold. “I on race but rather it was meant to trace the lacked diversity. As she declared her resistance community and queer women of color, think it’s cool when a white kid learns from a beginnings of the gay rights movement, the to openly gay action-turned-indie director deeming the film a “whitewashed” take Puerto Rican and a black kid,” he continues, steps we’ve made and the steps we haven’t. Roland Emmerich’s fictional interpretation on an otherwise mixed-minority historical “and is a better person afterwards. Becomes For Emmerich, the director behind major based around the events leading up to a occurrence. a true friend.” blow-up-everything blockbusters such as landmark moment in LGBT history, the “That was a surprise; I never expected Regarding the controversy: Emmerich “Independence Day,” “Godzilla” and “Day Stonewall riots, she rallied a fervent army of to hear that,” says Irvine, spotlighting says that, while shooting “Independence After Tomorrow,” it’s a passion project – a fellow boycotters. Twenty-four thousand...

20 BTL | Sept. 24, 2015 www.PrideSource.com piece of work so close to his heart he self- filmmakers’ fact-finding, a realization that financed the film with friends and even led Emmerich to this conclusion: “Nobody stepped in as director when no one else knows what really happened that night.” would. “You always have to take their stories “Nobody wanted to do it,” he reveals, with a grain of salt,” he says. “It’s like when “and I was stubborn, and then I got it done.” there’s a traffic accident and you ask five Irvine was unfazed that, according to witnesses and they tell you five different an Instagram post from out screenwriter stories.” Jon Robin Baitz, “no studio would give a When the final film was cut, those same cent to (this movie). Including the studios sources were the first to screen it. Emmerich he (Emmerich) has made a great deal of says they were “very, very surprised and money for.” complimentary about how right we got it.” With unconventional starring stints in And they knew this wasn’t a documentary. films such as 2012’s “Great Expectations” They knew Emmerich’s vision: “I’m always and “Beyond the Reach,” the actor’s own saying I made a movie about the unsung projects have mostly been off the beaten heroes of Stonewall. I wanted to give those path. “I’m on the side of anyone who thinks kids a voice.” that we should have a bit more risk-taking Because he found “the whole thing with mainstream cinema,” says Irvine, who incredibly moving,” Irvine was on board starred in Steven Spielberg’s emotional immediately. “The script had me in pieces juggernaut “War Horse.” “It’s played far when I first read it,” he admits. Blown too safe.” away by the writing and eager for the role, Regarding “Stonewall,” Emmerich was he hopped on a London-bound plane from determined to make this Budapest, where movie, studios be damned. he’d been filming “I said, ‘I’m not going another project, away from my kids; I’m and showed up at standing up for them.’” Emmerich’s door, His “kids,” of course, I’m on the side a scratch pad full include Irvine and of Stonewall notes Beauchamp, and the rest of anyone who thinks in hand. “I really of the young, colorful “ chased it,” Irvine core cast. But Emmerich’s that we should have a says. “The script “Stonewall” doesn’t seek bit more risk-taking with was by far the best to just tell its characters’ thing I’d read in stories – the director, along mainstream cinema. It’s months. It wasn’t with Baitz, had his eye a difficult decision on the bigger picture. His played far too safe. to go after it.” pursuit: to tell the story of But still, Irvine LGBT youth everywhere. was nervous. “Roland was always Would they talking about the homeless ” get it right? He kids who we don’t know knew the LGBT about today,” Irvine community’s says. “This little group expectations would of fictional characters be inevitably high, represents those who weren’t made famous and he says, “There’s a responsibility by the movement.” involved to do a story justice.” When Emmerich became involved with When shooting in NYC on Christopher the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center, he Street (the mayhem originally unfolded made a disheartening discovery: 40 percent there, in front of the Stonewall Inn) didn’t of LA homeless youth are LGBT. Personally pan out as hoped – there were too many struck, he dug deeper and realized that people, and not enough time – the crew history was repeating itself. used an indoor facility in Montreal, leaving “I was like, ‘Oh my god,’” he recalls. Emmerich questioning its true-to-life “At the same time, I read a lot about the authenticity. Stonewall riots and found some kind of “I panicked every day,” he remembers. parallel – a group of homeless kids were During the weeklong riot shoot, feelings very part of this riot too. The unsung heroes. were intense. Lots of reflection. Lots of I said, ‘Maybe I have to help.’” commemorating. “That whole sequence Emmerich threw himself into the project, was a very emotionally charged piece to researching the riots, and also, along with shoot,” recalls Irvine, who throws the brick producers, interviewing several Stonewall in the film, mirroring the famously charged vets. Limitations manifested quickly. As real-life moment. “We’re shooting with a lot Irvine states, “Finding actual survivors is of actors and people on the set who have a very difficult. This was just before the AIDS very personal relationship to the story. Very crisis, so actually finding people who were meaningful to them.” there is tough. And first accounts do vary – I Others emotions (and, ahem, things) were mean, it was a riot.” Their varied play-by-plays hindered the See Stonewall, page 23 www.PrideSource.com Sept. 24, 2015 | BTL 21

(Left) Otoja Abit as Marsha P. Johnson and Jonny Beaucamp as Ray / Ramona. Photo: Philippe Bossé

® Stonewall And with Stonewall too, of course. To Continued from page 21 prepare, Irvine powered through a stack of books and also listened to producer- conducted interviews. present while Irvine shot his gay sex-scene “I didn’t know a huge amount about debut with Jonathan Rhys Meyers, whose (Stonewall) before I read the script and did character represents one of the earliest gay all my research,” he admits. “I was quite rights groups in the U.S., the Mattachine ashamed at how ignorant I was about the Society, and crushes hard on Irvine’s new- Stonewall Movement.” kid-on-the-block character. Eventually they Now the public will see the end-result, the end up in bed. And with their clothes off. culmination of a passionate director and his “It was my first gay sex scene in a film, equally-as-passionate cast – and not for two and hey, to be honest, if you’re gonna do it, minutes. For two hours. Emmerich expects Jonathan Rhys Myers is not a bad choice,” more scrutiny, but shrugs it off. says Irvine, noting he’s only filmed one other “I don’t know what they will say,” he sex scene, guy-on-girl, before. “I’m pretty says. “They will probably find other stuff green to all that. And Jonathan obviously did to criticize. I always say a movie’s a movie ‘The Tudors,’ and so he said, ‘Just relax. I and it is what it is. We all are really super used to do, like, 10 of these a day.’ So he proud of it.” was very cool. He took my hand. Took me Echoing the latter sentiment, Irvine is through it.” pleased to be a part of “Stonewall,” a project “Jonathan totally took charge,” adds that he believes will put nearly a half- Emmerich. century of gradual progress – from the riots As he reflects on directing the scene, to the Supreme Court ruling on marriage the director chuckles, admitting to making equality – into perspective. special accommodations for Irvine (“I kept “I hope that the movie brings home how it really short for his relief”) because “oh important that period of history was,” he my god was he nervous.” says. “If we can bring that more to the Two men getting hot and heavy – Irvine forefront of people’s thoughts, then the film just felt pressure to, you know, get it right. has done what it’s meant to do.” www.PrideSource.com Sept. 24, 2015 | BTL 23 UDM Theatre Company Takes A Message Of Love On The Road

By Amy J. Parrent continued. “It’s providing more can see the effect the veteran pros Ferndale establishments to discuss weight of the role, but (imagining) experience for more students, and have on students. the play or just meet people. how do you get to be 600 pounds?” “You have to love yourself. It’s getting out of the limitations of “It’s incredible to have someone (Several restaurants, including Bailey said, “I’m a bigger fellow our prayer everyone can hear that.” performance spaces and venues come in, say the same thing you’ve Dino’s Lounge, The Emory and anyway. But this is going to double That is University of Detroit we’ve been in.” been saying for two years – and The Loving Touch, are offering the size of me. The way it’s written Mercy’s Greg Grobis describing Ringwald artistic director Joe suddenly the students get it,” he discounts to anyone who produces I don’t move a lot onstage. At first the theme of the award-winning Bailey, who also stars in “The said. “It’s an awesome joy to work a ticket for that night’s production.) I thought, ‘Oh cool, I’m not going play “The Whale,” a co-production Whale,” said, “Lately we’ve been with professionals, doing work Other efforts to make the play- to have to do a lot of blocking.’ of UDM’s Theatre Company and talking more about getting into that’s not standard. It’s cool that going accessible have included But there’s also a challenge of not Ferndale’s Ringwald Theatre. But educational outreach. I think (The UDM has always done that.” reaching out to Affirmations and being able to use my body. It adds in a way, it’s also the mantra of a whole other layer to everything.” every actor. And how does Bailey illuminate An actor is often limited – and the mind of a despondent man? “I frustrated – by the types of roles can’t be Debbie Downer for 90 they can play. But the goal of minutes, that’s not interesting,” UDM’s theater program has always he said. “I’d just disappear in the been to teach its students how to couch. I’m not just seeing him as work within that restriction. fat, depressed. Everybody has love If you’re 22, there’s not much in them, hope. To engage all those chance a Broadway show will cast qualities is the task with which I you as a 50- or 70-year-old. So have been given.” the company approach is to cast The production also includes students within their age range and noted actress Linda Rabin life experiences. Hammell, Greg Ettleman and “When you graduate, that’s how Savanah Wright. you’re going to get hired,” said Grobis said there is humor in Grobis, who is assistant professor the play. But the show has made of performing arts and director of him cry at rehearsals, and he was marketing and management for the only half-joking when he said he’d theater company. like a sponsor for selling tissues in To accommodate that casting the lobby. method, UDM also uses age- “It’s a tear jerker,” he said. “I appropriate professional actors connect personally. What do we do in most company productions. (with tragedies)? Do we just give Working with older pros enriches the up? There is hope if you look for students’ experiences in other ways. the light. You’re worthy of love. “Students have to perform at “That’s what the script explores,” levels of professionals, to meet Grobis said. “When you see this, expectations that are raised,” said Ringwald and UDM) can do things the Ruth Ellis Center, and offering you see the love everyone has for Grobis. “And this also grows their for each other that we didn’t do special theater industry night him that he doesn’t see, although professional network.” previously. And their audience The Whale tickets. Grobis joked that the he has love for everyone else. This season a new course has base won’t have to travel far (to “The Whale” of this show is a theater’s motto is “Fill it early and When the play is over we want you been charted that takes students The Ringwald).” 600-pound gay man from Idaho fill it often.” to go call someone and tell them even farther out into the world of The new approach also means named Charlie. His health failing, He described the writing of you love them.” professional theater. In addition to students experience a more and having lost his husband to a playwright Samuel D. Hunter working with the Ringwald, later professional run of several tragic death, he’s reaching out for – a MacArthur Fellow - as this season the company will co- weekends. “In having to come love and acceptance from others, phenomenal. “When I read this, I INFO produce the Michigan premiere of back a third and then a fourth including an estranged daughter. instantly knew this was a show I “Low Hanging Fruit” with Matrix weekend, we’ll be seeing how the “It’s about a man that is lost wanted to do,” Grobis said. Theatre Company at Boll Family growth of character (interpretation) in anxiety, and his love for other The script, with callbacks to The Whale YMCA in downtown Detroit. The continues, and how it becomes people,” Grobis said. “Mix into it “Moby Dick” and the Biblical UDM Theatre Company and The powerful play about female vets consistent,” said Grobis, who is LGBT issues – being gay, but having story of Jonah and the whale, also Ringwald Theatre of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars directing “The Whale.” religious institutions (judging) you. dovetails with The Ringwald’s 22742 Woodward Ave., Ferndale is a provocative piece heightening It also provides more But whether you’re gay or straight theme this year, a Season of 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23 awareness of PTSD. opportunities for the student crew or bi, the whole spectrum, whether Classics. 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24 “What Matrix does fits with who can be rotated in and out. you’re Democrat or Republican – For Bailey’s extremely obese 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25 the social justice mission of UD In addition the approach also character, costume designer you’re going to see humanity in this. 8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26 Mercy,” said Grobis. “Their develops professional mentoring. In this intimate space, the audience Melinda Pacha has created what mission is practically a rewording For instance, The Ringwald’s Grobis describes as a “state-of- $25 adult; $22 senior, UDM staff will be right there with the character and faculty; $10 student (with ID) of UDM’s. executive director, Jamie Warrow, processing what’s going on.” the-art fat suit,” which includes an 313-993-3270 “We’re not only partnering with who costars in “The Whale,” is The producers are also internal cooling packet. pros who come to our theater, also serving as a mentor/acting actively encouraging informal Grobis said the title character http://theatre.udmercy.edu we’re going to their spaces,” he coach to the UDM students. Grobis after-show gatherings at local is a daunting role – “not just the www.theringwald.com

24 BTL | Sept. 24, 2015 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com Sept. 24, 2015 | BTL 25 6 12 20 2 13 24 25 B 4 14 16 18 9 22 21 8 23 5 7 25 1 3 19 11

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26 BTL | Sept. 24, 2015 www.PrideSource.com www.PrideSource.com Sept. 24, 2015 | BTL 27 Monster Broadway Hit Electrifies Baldwin Theatre BY BTL STAFF beverages courtesy of Stagecrafters. Show tickets are $22 on Thursdays and $24 ROYAL OAK – Madcap antics, high- on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets energy dance and a toe-tapping musical score may be purchased online at www.stagecrafters. compose the perfect formula for a musical org (online handling fees apply) or by phone at comedy to kick off Stagecrafters’ award- 248-541-6430 using Visa or MasterCard. All winning 2015-16 Main Stage series. The new seats are reserved and there are no refunds or Mel Brooks musical “Young Frankenstein” is exchanges on individual tickets. If shows have the musical stage adaptation of Brooks’ 1974 not sold out, tickets can be purchased at the black-and-white film of the same name which box office one hour prior to the performance. parodies the 1930s horror movie genre. The Student, military and senior discounts are show began Sept. 11 and runs through Oct. 4 available for specific performances. The at the historic Baldwin Theatre in downtown Baldwin Theatre is located at 415 S. Lafayette Royal Oak. in downtown Royal Oak. Young Frankenstein Dr. Frederick Frankenstein (Jason Bowen of is rated PG-13 and some scenes may not Madison Heights) inherits his family’s estate be appropriate for young audiences. Strobe in Transylvania which was left to him by his lighting and theatrical haze will be used in the infamous mad scientist grandfather. Upon special effects. his arrival, Frederick meets hunchback Igor Remaining show dates and times are as (Jeff Weiner of Royal Oak), curvy research follows: 8 p.m. Sept. 24, 25, 26 and Oct. 2-3, assistant Inga (Erika Fell of Royal Oak) and and 2 p.m. Sept. 27 and Oct. 4. the mysterious housekeeper Frau Blücher Stagecrafters, a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit (Kathryn Stewart-Hoffmann of Ferndale). community theater, is in its 60th year of Inspired by a dream, Frederick finds himself in providing opportunities for members of the mad scientist shoes of his ancestors when the community to develop their talents he succeeds in bringing a corpse back to life, and to volunteer their time to create an thus creating The Monster (John Forlini of Taking a moment away from their experiment to pose for a “Franken-selfie” are Inga (Erika Fell of Royal Oak), Dr. enriching, quality theatrical experience Frederick Frankenstein (Jason Bowen of Madison Heights), Frau Blücher (Kathryn Stewart-Hoffmann pf Ferndale), Mt. Clemens). When The Monster escapes, and Igor (Jeff Weiner of Royal Oak). Photo by Paul Tamm. through its Main Stage, 2nd Stage and Youth hilarity abounds! For those familiar with the Theatre productions. At the Baldwin Theatre movie, all of the classic lines are still in place, outright, but mature audiences will pick up 2007 and closed in January 2009. The original since 1985, Stagecrafters has been named but accompanied with lively, off-color musical on the campy genius of Mel Brooks’ script cast included Roger Bart (Frankenstein), Best Community Theatre by Hour Detroit, numbers and dance, amazing costumes and an and score. The stage version follows the Megan Mullally (Elizabeth) and Sutton Foster Real Detroit Weekly and Daily Tribune. incredible set. classic movie fairly well. The big difference (Inga). The musical won five Boadway.com Stagecrafters offers shows that appeal to a Director Richard Wilson (of Royal Oak) is the addition of the musical numbers!” says Audience Awards including Favorite New wide variety of ages and interests and prides deems this show as not your typical musical, Wilson. Broadway Musical. itself on providing professional quality shows but rather a comedy with musical numbers. “Young Frankenstein” (book by Mel Brooks Blackfinn Ameripub of Royal Oak provided at affordable prices, making the performing “This show is campy humor at its finest – it’s and Thomas Meehan and music and lyrics by a special pre-glow for the opening performance arts accessible to individuals in our “regional” bawdy and full of innuendos. Nothing is said Brooks) premiered on Broadway in November of the Royal Oak run of the show, with community.

28 BTL | Sept. 24, 2015 www.PrideSource.com Cool Cities Royal Oak Find This Neighborhood Online At http://gaybe.am/RO

www.PrideSource.com Sept. 24, 2015 | BTL 29 Outings Thursday, Sept. 24 Trivia with Terry and Thirsty Thursday Half off beer and well drinks with student Pianist and composer Charlie Albright opens the ID. \aut\BAR, 315 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. Detroit Symphony Orchestra season with a recital 734-994-3677. www.Autbar.com concert program at the Max M. and Marjorie S. MAC Health 2 p.m. Mondays by Fisher Music Center. The performer is a 2014 Avery appointment only. Michigan AIDS Coalition (MAC), Ferndale. www. Fisher Career Grant winner and is recognized for Michiganaidscoalition.org improvisations that recall the Romantic-era composer- Connections 6 p.m. Open to all LGBTQ pianists. and Ally youth from 13-18.Join us to meet other LGBTQ and Ally teens and socialize The New York Times praised Albright for his “jaw- in a safe space. Kalamazoo Gay and Lesbian Resource Center, 629 Pioneer dropping technique and virtuosity meshed with a St., Kalamazoo. 269-349-4234. www. distinctive musicality.” The 27-year-old musician is considered on the rise to international stardom. Kglrc.org Albright will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 25. An afterglow will follow in the Atrium. The Max Confessions Adult Story-Telling 7 p.m. The city of Detroit lacks a safe, inclusive is located at 3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Tickets are $10-45 for the performance. To order tickets, space for adults to learn about sexual call 313-576-5111or visit www.dso.org. wellness and expression. Spark Plug Detroit aims to fill that gap in a manner which is welcoming of all people. Free and open to the public. Spark Plug Funky Ferndale Art Fair 120 artists. Ave., Royal Oak. 248-541-6430. www. Gay and Lesbian Resource Center, 629 Detroit, 2900 E. Grand Blvd., Detroit. Food. Fun. Twice as funky as the average Stagecrafters.org Pioneer St., Kalamazoo. 269-349-4234. [email protected] www. fine art fair. Funky Ferndale Art Fair, Nine www.Kglrc.org Sparkplugdetroit.com Mile and Woodward, Ferndale. www. Sunday, Sept. 27 Pride NA 6:30 p.m. Confidential and Funkyferndaleartfair.com Salsa Night Salsa lessons. $1 tacos. \aut\ anonymous. Open to all individuals Friday, Sept. 25 The BAM spends a day on the lake 1 BAR, 315 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-994- impacted by addiction. Kalamazoo Gay Bistro Fridays Special menu. \aut\BAR, p.m. Canoe Trip to Fireworks Island and 3677. www.Autbar.com and Lesbian Resource Center, 629 Pioneer 315 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-994- a visit to the Belleville Area Museum all St., Kalamazoo. 269-349-4234. www. It’s Easy Being Green: A Sustainable 3677. www.Autbar.com in one day! Join us for an intriguing day Kglrc.org Living Expo 12:30 p.m. It’s Easy Being featuring a presentation by the Huron Meet and Greet Happy Hour 7 p.m. Green is a day-long learning, local B.F.’s! 7 p.m. Tickets: $12 in advance only. Watershed Council and a look at the Metro Detroit Bisexual Men’s Group, 215 buying, and eating celebration of living Slipstream, 460 Hilton, Ferndale. 248- newest museum exhibit - Lake Life: The S. Main St., Royal Oak. 586-306-5572. a life that’s better for the planet and not 298-9617. www.Slipstreamti.com Creation and Recreation of Belleville Lake. so hard on the wallet. From supporting Comedy for A Cause 8 p.m. Come as you Cost: $10-22. Beleville Area Museum, 405 efforts to reduce your carbon footprint are to a great night of Comedy and help Main St., Belleville. www.Facebook.com/ Monday, Sept. 28 to learning homesteading skills for raise money for Metropolitan Community events/869163716489726/ living a more hands-on, DIY life, It’s LGBT Sexual Assault Survivors Groups Church of Detroit.Tickets: $15. Laff Tracks 5:30 p.m. Any member of the LGBT Easy Being Green has you covered! Comedy Club of Novi, and Metropolitan Mitten Mavens Roller Derby vs. Dead community, age 13-24, who is a survivor Ann Arbor District Library, 343 S. Fifth Community Church of Detroit, 30850 River Roller Derby 7:30 p.m. Tickets: of sexual assault is welcome. This group Ave., Ann Arbor. www.acebook.com/ Beck Road, Novi. 248-924-9578 . dave@ $0-12. Lansing Capital Roller Derby, 7868 is open to all LGBTQIAP individuals who events/677018942398030/ lafftracksnovi.com www.Lafftracksnovi. Old M-78, East Lansing. marketing@ have experienced any form of sexual mittenmavens.net www.Mittenmavens.net com/index.php/comedy-for-a-cause TransCend TransCend provides support assault in their lifetime. Kalamazoo The Orb 8 p.m. Tickets: $20+. The Magic and resources to the Southwest Michigan Gay and Lesbian Resource Center, 629 Saturday, Sept. 26 Bag, 22920 Woodward Ave., Ferndale. transgender community, their significant Pioneer St., Kalamazoo. 269-345-5595. others, family, friends, and allies. Meetings [email protected] www. turnIT aut \aut\BAR, 315 Braun Ct., Ann 248-544-3030. www.Themagicbag.com occur twice per month on the 2nd Kglrc.org Arbor. 734-994-3677. www.Autbar.com Young Frankenstein 8 p.m. Tickets: Wednesday and 4th Sunday. Kalamazoo $22-24. Stagecrafters, 415 S. Lafayette New Member Night 7 p.m. Washtenaw County’s original mixed LGBT chorus. Opportunity to join LGBT chorus group. No commitments, just see if we’re the right group for you. All are welcome – LGBT & allies. No sight reading skills or audition are required. Out Loud Chorus, 1400 W. Viral violin sensation Taylor Davis comes to Ferndale’s The Stadium Blvd, Ann Arbor. 734-265- Magic Bag Oct. 7. Davis is a classically trained American 0740. [email protected] www. violinist, arranger and composer, whose passion for video Olconline.org game and film music led her to launch her widely popular Tuesday, Sept. 29 YouTube channel “ViolinTay” in 2011. As of January 2015, Karaoke and Half Off Wine \aut\BAR, Davis’ channel has attracted over 700,000 subscribers and 315 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-994- 85 million video views. 3677. www.Autbar.com MAC Health 2 p.m. Michigan AIDS The majority of her cover videos feature a wide variety of Coalition (MAC), Detroit. www. video game, film and anime themes. Davis has recently Michiganaidscoalition.org begun releasing her own original music starting with her Free STI & Rapid HIV Testing 5 p.m. Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, Trichomoniasis, first single “Nebulous” in July 2013, and plans to release Syphilis. Affirmations, 290 W. Nine Mile a full album of original music in February 2015. Davis has Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. www. released five full length video game, anime and film cover Goaffirmations.org albums, a full length Christmas album and over 20 singles. Dynamic Duo 10 p.m. 21+.Free. Menjo’s, 928 McNichols Road W, Detroit. Davis arranged and produced all of the fully orchestrated 313-863-3934. www.Facebook.com/ backtracks that accompanied her violin solos for her first dynamicduoact three albums. She now collaborates with other producers and arrangers on many projects but also Wednesday, Sept. 30 continues to fully produce some of her music. Free Pool and $1 Off Beer \aut\BAR, 315 Braun Ct., Ann Arbor. 734-994-3677. Taylor Davis stops by the Magic Bag on Wednesday, Oct. 7 for an extraordinary night of music. Doors www.Autbar.com are 8 p.m. Tickets start at $15 in advance. The Magic Bag is located at 22920 Woodward Ave., Ferndale. For tickets or more information, call 248-544-1991 or visit www.themagicbag.com. See Happenings, page 32

30 BTL | Sept. 24, 2015 www.PrideSource.com Maxim Vinogradov (Brad) and Jackson Abohasira (Jack) star in the coming-of age tale “BFs!” at Slipstream Theatre Initiative in Hazel Park. Photo: STI Teen Actors Are Totally Convincing In ‘BFs!’ By Donald V. Calamia Although I was not there in an official capacity, I nonetheless found myself looking have to hand it to the young actors who at the play through the eyes of a critic. are currently starring in “BFs!” – the In particular, I kept close watch on the I impressive two-hander at Slipstream reactions of each actor when he wasn’t the Theatre Initiative in Hazel Park. For almost one speaking. Did noises and movement in two hours, the story unfolds in a bedroom the room distract him? Was he totally “into the that’s in a performance space barely the same moment” and truly listening to the other actor? size as the living room inside my typical Were his eyes connecting with those of his 1950s suburban ranch (yes, that small!), fellow actor? Because the slightest deviation where Maxim Vinogradov (Brad) and Jackson could ruin the moment in such an intimate Abohasira (Jack) must age their characters performance space, how successful were these four years while struggling to come to terms boys – these young men – in sustaining their at their own speeds with their sexuality – all characters throughout a two-hour span of time, while performing mere inches away from the I wondered? 28 or so voyeurs sitting quietly around them. Only once did an actor break – albeit for Even the most seasoned veterans of the stage a second, and so did many in the audience – would find such a scenario a bit intimidating. thanks to a door that unexpectedly slammed But these two teenage performers (one a senior shut in the back of the house. (Did someone in high school, the other a college freshman) leave the room, I wondered?) For the rest of understood the need to “keep it real” – that is, the time, these actors performed a miracle: to not play to the back of the house, but to act They transformed themselves into Jack and as naturally as one possibly can in a setting Brad, alone in Jack’s bedroom, sharing their that demands total intimacy of its performers. experiences, their hopes, their dreams and their The result, then, were performances that fears as only best friends can. seemed so real and so authentic that it was easy Because I’m familiar with the source to forget one was watching a play – but instead material – the play is based on a book, the were peeking in on private conversations autobiographical “Band Fags” written by between best friends since seventh grade. Frank Anthony Polito – I entered the theater curious how Polito took a novel with a plethora PERFORMING of interesting characters and whittled it down to only two people. Would anything important BFs! get lost in the translation? Would it get boring hearing about these other folks rather than Slipstream Theatre Initiative watching them tell their own parts of the story 20937 John R. Road, Hazel Park directly to us? 313-986-9156 Not at all. In fact, the story unfolded www.slipstreamti.com quite well, with the boys filling in whatever $12 in advance information was needed for us to understand 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 who everyone was and how they related to the plot. If there was anything important 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, Oct. 3 missing, I sure didn’t detect it – nor did I hear 7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 27, Oct. 4 anyone asking plot-related questions as they

See BFs, page 34 www.PrideSource.com Sept. 24, 2015 | BTL 31 Ave., Ann Arbor. 734-761-1800. www. performing scenic long-form improv University, 750 E. Shaw Lane, East Lansing. ® Happenings A2sf.org comedy.Tickets: $10. Go Comedy! Sept. 22 - Sept. 27. 800-WHARTON. www. Dynamic Duo Sings With Detroit Improv Theater, 261 E. Nine Mile Road, Whartoncenter.com Continued from page 30 Friday, Oct. 2 Ferndale. Sept. 20 - Sept. 27. 248-327- 0575. www.Facebook.com/GoComedy ComedySportz Two teams battle for BY BTL STAFF Big 80s Flashback Bash! 9 p.m. laughs and points as they make up Cover: $6. Helps the Hater Kitty Rescue Go Comedy! Improv Theater “Ferndale scenes, games and songs on the spot. Fall Detroit Camper & RV Show 2 p.m. Army. Static Network, 1254 Michigan 2 Nite” A night of the best in local stand- A family-friendly show! ComedySportz Entertainers Gerianne Ditto-Harvey and Eric Swanson have Tickets: $0-10. MARVAC, 46100 Grand Ave., Detroit. 313-961-4668. info@ up comedy. Tickets: $10. Go Comedy! Detroit, Michigan Actors Studio, 648 been singing together for over a decade but only recently decided River Ave., Novi. 313-600-5812. www. staticrecords.com www.Pjslagerhouse.com Improv Theater, 261 E. Nine Mile Road, E. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. Through Marvac.orgmarvac-rv-shows.html Ferndale. 8 p.m. Sept. 24. 248-327- Oct. 31. 877-636-3320. www. to perform as a duo act. The result is a night of fun that can be 0575. www.Facebook.com/GoComedy comedysportzdetroit.com MAC Health 6 p.m. Michigan AIDS Saturday, Oct. 3 seen bi-weekly at The New Menjos Complex in Detroit. Each Coalition (MAC), 290 W. Nine Mile Ghoultide Gathering 8 a.m. Cost: Go Comedy! Improv Theater “Name This Nunset Boulevard The Little Sisters of night begins with Gerianne and Eric warming up the crowd with Road, Ferndale. 248-398-7105. www. $5-20. Ghoultide Gathering, 20501 W. Show (FREE!)” A free, no holds barred, late Hoboken have been invited to sing at Michiganaidscoalition.org Old US 12 Highway, Chelsea. 269-553- night improv show. Go Comedy! Improv the Hollywood Bowl. They are thrilled at various selections of musical theater, jazz, Disney and pop music. 1852. [email protected] Theater, 261 E. Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. the prospect until they arrive and realize As the night progresses the duo throws in a bit of stand-up and Thursday, Oct. 1 Ghoultidegathering.com Sept. 18 - Sept. 26. 248-327-0575. www. that they are booked into the Hollywood Facebook.com/GoComedy Bowl-A-Rama, a bowling alley with a opens the guest microphone up to singers who come up to sing Madonna: Rebel Heart Tour Live 6 Seventh Annual Bras for a Cause cabaret lounge. Tickets: . Cornwell’s Nation, 19 Steve Yzerman Dr., Detroit. p.m. A unique live and silent auction a solo selections. Royal Oak Music Theatre “Kacey Dinner Theatre, 18935 15 1/2 Mile Rd, 313-396-7000. www.Livenation.com benefit for Gilda’s Club. All ages.Tickets: Musgraves” . Royal Oak Music Theatre, Marshall. Through Oct. 24. 269-781- Ditto-Harvey and Swanson met while attending Adrian College $50-55. Gilda’s Club, 318 W. Fourth 318 W. Fourth St., Royal Oak. Oct. 1. Margaret Cho: The Psycho Tour Murray 4293. www.turkeyville.com together back in 2003. Over the years the two have collaborated St., Royal Oak. 248-399-2980. www. 248-399-2980. www.Aeglive.com & Peter, 7096 E. 14 Mile Road, Warren. Royaloakmusictheatre.com on numerous artistic projects including several Broadway style 586-268-3200. www.Andiamoitalia.com The Ark “Brad Phillips” Tickets: $15. Harvest of Hope Benefit 6:30 p.m. The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 8 reviews, tours and recordings; currently they work closely together Bright Half Life 7:30 p.m. Deep in the Art ‘N’ Around Biggest fundraiser of the year for Ozone p.m. Sept. 29. 734-761-1800. www. heart of every true love lies the truth Detroit Artists Market (DAM) “The with their Top 40s band Motif (www.motifband.weebly.com). House.Tickets: $150. Ozone House, 2955 Theark.org of its inevitable end. Time Out New Change We Want To See: Artists Reflect The pair decided to start up the act because they saw that no Packard Road, Ann Arbor. 734-662- on Detroit.” Detroit Artists Market, York calls this Critics’ pick “Romantic! 2265. www.Ozonehouse.org/harvest The Ark “Noah Gundersen” Tickets: such act performing in the Detroit area. Inspired by a singalong Virtuosic! For sheer loveliness, you $15. The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 4719 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Sept. 11 - Oct. 17. 313-832-8540. www. night experienced at New York’s famous gay bar Marie’s Crisis, won’t surpass Tanya Barfield’s exquisite 8 p.m. Sept. 24. 734-761-1800. www. BRIGHT HALF LIFE” and the New York Music & More Theark.org Detroitartistsmarket.org they thought the idea would be well received on the home front. So Times says “BRIGHT HALF LIFE shows MOCAD “Interchange Art + Dinner Series” “Charlie The Magic Bag “Bobby Whitlock from the volatility in a long-term partnership, Detroit Symphony Orchestra Tickets: $200+. Museum of Contemporary far, nights have included massive singalongs to “Rent,” “Aladdin,” Albright” Tickets: $10-45. Max M. Fisher Derek & The Dominos and Coco Carmel” the joy and desolation, the hurt and help Art Detroit, 4454 Woodward Ave., Detroit. Music Center, 3711 Woodward Ave., Tickets: $20. The Magic Bag, 22920 “Hair,” power ’80s anthems, and so much more. Each night, the - all intermingled, all at once.” Straight June 18 - Sept. 24. 313-832-6622. www. Detroit. 7:30 p.m. Sept. 25. 313-576- Woodward Ave., Ferndale. 8 p.m. Sept. 29. duo ends with the room joining in “Hair’s” “Let the Sunshine In.” from its New York run, this shatteringly Mocadetroit.org romantic play swirls us through decades 5111. www.Dso.org 248-544-3030. www.Themagicbag.com The Dynamic Duo can be seen at 10 p.m. on select Tuesday Riverwalk Theatre “Mary Jobin, in an instant with soul mates Erica “Funky University Musical Society “Sphinx Funky Ferndale Art Fair Oil Painted Landscapes” . Riverwalk nights at Menjos. This event is free and open to those 21 and and Vicki, as they explore marriage, Ferndale Art Fair” 120 artists. Food. Fun. Virtuosi” . Rackham Auditorium, 915 Theatre, 228 Museum Dr., Lansing. Aug. children, skydiving and the infinite space Twice as funky as the average fine art East Washington St., Ann Arbor . 4 p.m. older. Menjos is located at 928 W. McNichols Ave, Detroit. No 1 - Sept. 30. 517-482-5700. inside the moments of a life together in fair. Downtown Ferndale, Nine Mile and Sept. 27. 734-764-2538. www.Ums.org/ this play. Theatre Nova, 416 W. Huron cover and “no judgment.” Safe and secure parking. Additional Woodward, Ferndale. Sept. 25 - Sept. 27. performance/sphinx-virtuosi/ UMMA “Jem Cohen: Life Drawing” . Street, Ann Arbor. 734-635-8450. information can be found on the Dynamic Duo’s facebook page, www.Funkyferndaleartfair.com University Of Michigan Museum Of Art, [email protected] www.Artful.ly/ 525 S. State St., Ann Arbor. Aug. 15 - www.facebook.com/dynamicduoact. theatre-nova/store/events/6413 “The Go Comedy! Improv Theater Nov. 29. 734-763-4186. www.Umma. Sunday Buffet” Our newest Launch Theater umich.edu The Dynamic Duo will play Sept. 29, Oct. 13, Oct. 27, Nov. 10, Nov. Wait Wait... Don’t Tell Me 8 p.m. Group, Future Kids, joins three of Cinderella Tickets: $35+. Wharton Center Tickets: $30-125. NPR, 825 N. University for the Performing Arts, Michigan State 24 and Dec. 15. the finest improv troupes in the area

32 BTL | Sept. 24, 2015 www.PrideSource.com 37 Great service from 8 Where to look for the “gay Q Puzzle Mauresmo gene” 38 The USA, to Monika Treut 9 Rainy country for Eliza Doolittle 41 Prefix with room 10 Like some nails 42 Vanessa, who was 11 Kind of IRA married to Tony Richardson 12 A girl named Frank 44 General drift 13 Cause of the Tin Woodsman’s 46 In addition rust 47 Org. that could help you 21 Doris Day to Rock Hudson, see Uranus often 49 Gay rodeo fans may come 22 Neat ___ (half of the Odd in them Couple) 50 Conversant about 24 Precollege ed 52 Car from Sweden 25 Stiller’s partner, once 54 Janet, who was married 26 Rise to the top to Adrian 27 Actor Robert and family 57 Liza, who was married to 29 Places for erections Peter Allen (or, her dad) 31 Risky fellatio partner? 61 Yellow Brick way and 32 Erect others 33 “Great balls of fire!” 62 Abominable snowman BTL Wedding 36 Lane of “The Birdcage” 63 Superman portrayer Dean 39 Bruce Wayne kept Dick in one Announcements 64 Shoreline opening 40 Wolfson of Freedom to Marry 65 Going full tilt Free! 43 Head for the bottom 66 Traci Des Jardins, for one Beginning Sept. 17, BTL will 45 DeMornay of “Risky Business” 67 Jury members that may celebrate marriage equality by 48 Given this situation be, well, hung running announcements of your 51 Newsgroup messages 68 High place with a flat top wedding, recommitment vows, 53 “West Side Story” girl Bearded Ladies 69 Pisa’s river anniversary or engagement. 54 Worker on Broadway Simply send us your pics and 20 Fran, who married Peter Marc 55 Tops a description, up to 50 words, Across Jacobson Down 56 Jodie Foster’s alma mater and we will run it as space 1 Publisher and friend of Moss Hart 22 Carrie, who married Bryan Lourd 1 Word before cock 57 Portion (out) permits in BTL! 5 DC tourist district 23 Debtor’s slips 2 At any point 58 Cowardly lion actor Send to [email protected] 9 Jack, known for licking it clean 24 Marine birds 3 Director Norman of “Prelude to 59 Property right 14 “June Is Bustin’ Out All ___” 25 Mothers, to Verlaine a Kiss” 60 411 15 “La Traviata” solo 28 Fairy story 4 Sitcom with John Mahoney 62 Orange veggie 16 Taking it lying down 30 Double-reed instrument 5 Peru’s ___ Picchu 17 She played Glinda in “The Wiz” 34 Bring to bear 6 Police response to gays in Find solution to this puzzle at 18 Sourpuss 35 Carol, who married Charles Lowe public, once 19 Prudential rival 7 One with a tricky tongue www.pridesource.com

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® BFs addition to the Slipstream schedule, seats when I got up to say hello to my Continued from p. 31 Polito should be quite pleased with the long-lost friend, only to ultimately end results. (It was the Michigan premiere up in a musical-chairs-like scenario in left the theater. (You can often gauge – but not for the lack of trying: He had which I was left with one of the few seats the potential success of a show or lack shopped the script around town for quite still available when the show began. So thereof by eavesdropping on audience a while, but with no bites.) And director where was that? Right next to Jack’s desk comments after a performance, and Bailey Boudreau should be equally and wall calendar, where I found myself in this case, everything was positive. proud of his production. His insightful pretty much rubbing shoulders with him However, it should be noted that many eye kept the emotions real, his set was at the start of many scenes, and where INTRODUCING ... at Saturday night’s performance were a perfect replica of Polito’s childhood at one point Brad was at my feet with a friends and neighbors of Polito’s, which bedroom, and his use of the limited lit candle holding a séance. Luckily for might skew their reactions. Heck, I even space kept his audience engaged in the me, my ancient stage training kicked in, MAGAZINE discovered that one of his neighbors production at all times. and I stayed deathly still whenever the From the Publishers Of is an old friend I hadn’t seen in over (In all honesty, it probably kept some action was close by so that I wouldn’t Between The Lines & Pridesource.com a decade, which made the night even of us TOO engaged – especially me, who steal the focus. It was tempting, though, A New Lifestyle & Resource Publication For SE Michigan’s more special!) was evicted from my original choice of to blow out that candle...) LGBT Community For a show that was a last-minute

34 BTL | Sept. 24, 2015 www.PrideSource.com The Frivolist Put These 17 Shows on Your Fall Premiere Calendar By Mikey Rox ‘Nashville,’ ABC op the corn, grab a blanket and cozy Nashville’s Will Lexington is the hottest gay into your favorite couch cushion for this cowboy since, well, you know. Pselection of new-season shows featuring LGBT characters we can root for. ‘Undateable,’ NBC ‘The Real O’Neals,’ CBS The highly underrated multi-camera comedy “Undateable” will return to NBC this fall for The O’Neals have a secret; several of its third season (didn’t know about the first them, in fact – not the least of which is two seasons, did ya?) with – get this – all 14-year-old Kenny’s confession that he’s live episodes. As if that’s not enough to pique gay, which he reveals in front of his family’s your curiosity, perhaps bear-tastic bartender church congregation. Upfronts for the Martha Brett can. Plimpton-starring vehicle show initial promise, but it’s the boycott by the American Family Association that should seal the deal. ‘The Walking Dead,’ AMC The body count will continue to rise in ‘DC’s Legends of Tomorrow,’ season 7 as Rick Grimes and group try to strike a survivable balance within the fallen The CW Alexandria society while facing a new threat of the Wolves. Here’s hoping that boyfriends Scheduled to premiere midseason, “DC’s Aaron and Eric get a decent storyline before Legends of Tomorrow” (from out exec one of them bites the dust. producer Greg Berlanti) will feature a host of familiar superheroes, including at least one crossover character, Sara Lance, a bisexual ‘Couples Therapy with crime fighter who died on sister series “Arrow,” but is now resurrected through the Dr. Jenn,’ VH1 mythical Lazarus Pits as “White Canary.” When you can’t bear witness to an actual train wreck, “Couples Therapy” is a solid ‘Grandfathered,’ FOX stand-in, this season starring “Drag Race” alums Carmen Carrera and Adrian Torres. John Stamos, who ages just as well (or better) than a fine wine, helms this half-hour comedy about a still-in-his-prime bachelor ‘American Horror Story: Hotel,’ who finds out he’s a father – and a grandfather FX – all in a day. Kelly Jenrette stars as his lesbian assistant restaurant manager Annelise. Lady Gaga stars as Elizabeth the Countess, bisexual owner of the Hotel Cortez, which ‘Supergirl,’ CBS the oddest gay couple on TV weather the will see its fair share of LGBT characters ‘Rosewood,’ FOX storm? Yeah, probably, and hopefully with a pass through its door, including roles filled by Private pathologist Dr. Beaumont Rosewood There’s no indication that there’s anything lot of hilarity. Angela Bassett, Denis O’Hare, Finn Wittrock (Morris Chestnut) runs a for-hire autopsy LGBT about this new series initially, but it’s and Cheyenne Jackson. agency with his toxicologist sister Pippy produced by Greg Berlanti, so there’s high- ‘How to Get Away With Murder,’ (Gabrielle Dennis) and her DNA specialist flying probability that we’ll see some diversity ‘Empire,’ FOX fiancé Tara (Anna Konkle) in this Wednesday- soon. It’s already well on its convention- ABC night crime procedural. shattering way with Mehcad Brooks (“True Gay heir to the Empire Records fortune, Sure, Connor Walsh is a stereotype of a gay Blood”) playing former “Daily Prophet” Jamal (Jussie Smollett) gives “Empire” its man who uses his sexuality to his advantage, photographer James Olsen. LGBT street cred, but it’s family matriarch in “How to Get Away With Murder” – but, ‘Faking It,’ MTV Cookie (Taraji P. Henson) who makes us want really, who’s complaining? Less shirt, more to put those jams on repeat every single week. Aside from making the most popular boy ‘Best Time Ever With sex, please. in school, Shane, gay, and giving him a hot MMA-fighter love interest, Duke, to make Neil Patrick Harris,’ NBC ‘Younger,’ TVLand out with, “Faking It” also warrants your Doogie has turned his perennial hosting ‘Todrick,’ MTV DVR space for introducing TV’s first intersex You’ll have to wait until January to catch prowess into a full-time gig (at least for a short Quadruple-threat Todrick Hall – the character, Lauren, who will spend this season the second season of TVLand’s sleeper- season of shows) with this primetime party that YouTube sensation famous for his full-scale handling the fallout of being outed by her ex- hit “Younger,” starring Sutton Foster as a will feature comedy, music, games and more. productions of gay-ified Disney covers – gets boyfriend – who we can only hope meets the 40-something divorced mother pretending his comeuppance in this docu-series about business end of a choke hold. to be a 26-year-old editor’s assistant, but it’s – what else? – the making of said full-scale worth scheduling on your DVR in advance. ‘Modern Family,’ ABC productions. The indispensable Debi Mazar provides the Tensions are rising for semi-newlyweds show lesbian realness while too-tempting Cam and Mitchell, the latter of whom admitted tattoo artist Nico Tortorella’s eye candy gives to losing his job at the end of season 6. Can us something to suck on. www.PrideSource.com Sept. 24, 2015 | BTL 35