LESBIAN NEWS VOL. 43 ∙ NO. 09 ∙ April 2018
LOVE AS DISOBEDIENCE Sebastián Lelio goes Hollywood with a lesbian romance
BRAVE TRAILS HOSTS FOURTH ANNUAL CAMP OUT BENEFIT SOIREE
MAGGIE ROGERS: MESSY, FLAWED, BUT HONEST LN Contributors
Anne Laure Pineau At 32, Anne Laure is a Parisian journalist working for national magazines (ELLE, Paris-Match, Liberation) on many subjects, from the far-right and conservative movements in France, to the Angola Prison Rodeo in Louisiana. She has the absolute conviction that her job is political and can enlighten the human complexity. As a feminist, as an anti-racist and as a lesbian, she is working daily to give a space to the untold stories. (Photo: Juliette Robert).
Beth Shipp is the first Executive Director of LPAC, the lesbian Super PAC that builds the political power of lesbian, queer, bisexual and transgender women by electing candidates who champion LGBTQ rights, women’s equality and social justice. She is a political strategist with more than 20 years of experience working for women’s reproductive rights, Democratic candidates and progressive causes. Prior to joining LPAC, Ms. Shipp was the political director for NARAL Pro- Choice and worked on a variety of federal and state campaigns throughout the nation.
Carl Matthes is the current president of UGLA, Uptown Gay and Lesbian Alliance, an organization providing a support system for gay men, lesbians and education for individuals and the community He is a columnist on the Lesbian News, owned and published by his sister, Ella and her wife, Gladi. He was editor of the GLAAD/newsletter, and a GLAAD/LA representative on the Board. ln July, 2008, Carl was legally married to Carl Johnson, his partner of 50 years, by Los Angeles City Councilmember Jose Huizar. It was a unique gay/lesbian double ceremony as Carl’s sister Ella and her partner Gladi were also married by Jose.
Carla Ferrer Russo, PhD is a Professor of Natural Medicine, a Registered Yoga Instructor, and a pioneering Behaviorist & Life Coach in the field of transformation and consciousness for healthy lifestyle living. For over twenty years, Dr. Carla’s work has focused on sharing both her personal and professional experience addressing the whole being, mind, body and spirit; empowering profound personal and professional break-throughs for individuals and organizations throughout the United States and United Kingdom (EU).
Christin and Ashley Kelly-Brown are owners and wife team of LunaBella Makeup and Hair in Santa Barbara, CA. Originally from Oakland, CA. they met there at 17 years of age and have been together for over 12 years. Legally married in California on October 3, 2008, their company has since taken off. They absolutely love not only what they do but also how uniquely they work together.
Dian Katz works a variety of arenas. With a background in Marriage Counseling and a history as a professional performer, she’s LN’s Entertainment Editor and Self Help columnist. Dian’s also authored a book entitled: Love Hurts· A Spiritual Journey to Wholeness. She sometimes works the motivational speaking circuit. Dian’s an award winning drummer with her own rock band. Out of all the many hats she wears, performing and writing are her biggest passions. Dina Evan, PhD is a noted speaker and veteran activist for LGBT Women’s and Human Rights. She is a professional counselor and spiritual coach working with individuals, couples and organizations from coast to coast. She has authored three books, Inspiration Cards, Calendars and Meditation CD’s. She provides tools for creating successful relationships which she believes are the path to consciousness. Dina feels the highest assignment today is simply waking up. (602) 997-1200 • www.drdinaevan.com
Gladi Adams, PhD is a native New Englander who was recruited in Boston by the Los Angeles Unified School District to teach English in L.A. She studied at Boston University, Cal State Northridge, California Western and UCLA. She retired as a secondary school principal after 35 years in the system. She is married to Ella Matthes, publisher, and they have been working on the LN together since 2005.
John Esther For nearly a dozen years, Movie Editor John Esther has been writing for Lesbian News. Over time, he has written more than 100 articles for LN on film, music, theater, ~ and culture. His monthlymovie column, Eye C, is currently the longest consecutiverunning - movie column in LN. John also contributes articles to numerous other publications, plus his own blog. John is currently a Board Member of the Gay and Lesbian Entertainment Critics Association (GALECA).
Juno Parreñas, PhD has been a regular monthly columnist at the Lesbian News since 1997, when she was seventeen years old. Since then, she has lived in three continents, five countries, ten cities, and has three degrees: a Bachelor’s from UC Santa Cruz, a Master’s from the University of Amsterdam, and a PhD from Harvard University. When she’s not writing about sexuality, politics, pleasure, culture, desire, and social relations, she works on her research involving orangutans.
Lynda Montgomery was born in Long Beach, a small town in Canada. She loves a parade, so she moved to Long Beach California, a big town, so she didn’t have to be all alone in the Gay Pride parade! She is an activist for animal rights and gay rights, giving priority to gay animals! As a stand-up comic she has survived many dive bars, festivals, and comedy clubs. She is currently trying to get booked onto the “Olivia Cruises” because she heard it’s a great place to meet women!
Mona de Crinis grew up in a world without Xbox or Netflix, when tweeting was something birds did and “Pinterest” was a bad typo. She relied on her fertile imagination for fun quickly discovering that words threaded together could create a vibrant tapestry of expression. This awareness sparked a passion and subsequent career. For more than 20 years, she wrote and edited for regional and niche publications. She has authored over 100 published articles. Mona lives in Palm Springs with partner, Lori, and four furry kids.
Mona Elyafi has been writing celebrity magazine profiles, entertainment news and lifestyle columns for two decades. She currently writes for the Huffing ton Post, and serves as the West Coast correspondent for Diva Magazine (Dubai’s leading Women’s fashion magazine) writing 1!11 pieces on Kim Kardashian, Kimora Lee Simmons and Denise Richards. Born in Beirut, Lebanon, raised in Paris, France, residing in Los Angeles, Elyafi has spent 20 years working in entertainment publicity, heading her own PR Company, ILDK Media. She holds a Master of Arts in journalism from New York University. Morag Hillsinger Reba Birmingham is our LN poet, writing until recently under the Nom de Plume Morag Hillsinger. She is also a practicing lawyer and an author with Regal Crest Publishing. Her debut novel, Floodlight, is now available on Bella Books, Amazon and Kobo. It is the first in a series about the LGBT characters that inhabit the fictional town of Merryville California. It is quirky and fun. The sequel will be released in 2018.
Nat Burns is an award-winning novelist and journalist who lives and writes in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She has authored novels in several genres for four different publishers and has just released her eleventh novel, a lesbian romance called Lights of the Heart. Her shorter works and essays have appeared in more than fifty publications and she’s been writing for LN since 2009. Burns is now writing full time after retiring from her career as editorial systems coordinator for a medical publishing company. www.natburns.com
Nikki McCauley was born in Pittsburgh, PA. She graduated from Robert Morris University and spent ten years with Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, CA. Accomplishments: PilotGodless- 2010- 2012; CD- Spoken Word 2005; Warner Bros. Writer’s Workshop 2003/2004; Poetry Book- Inditing Poetry 1999. Scripts: Law & Order; The Practice; Cold Case; CSI Las Vegas.
Robin Tyler is a pioneer activist in the LGBT community. In the 1970’s, she became the first ‘out’ lesbian or gay comic on television, albums and in concert. In addition to 25 Women’s Music and Comedy Festivals, Robin produced the main stages for 3 OD of the LGBT Marches on Washington. Robin and her wife, Diane Olson, were the first lesbian plaintiffs to file the lawsuit that brought marriage equality to California and were the first to marry in Los Angeles County.
Sally Sheklow came out in 1973 and has been with her “wifey” for 25 years. They live in Eugene, Oregon with their two cats. Sally’s “Living Out” column first appeared in Lesbian News in 1999, and twice won both the Houston Press Club’s Lone Star Award for best magazine column and Best of Eugene’s “Best Writer” award. Sally teaches Queer Studies at Portland State University, performs with the all-lesbian improv troupe WYMPROV!, and makes art out of old buttons.
Shawn Ryan is a lot of things. He’s an Actor/Singer/Writer/Director and Camp Director but fancies himself a Dancer/Poet/Lyrical Savant/Brother/Son/and Terrific Husband. His greatest wish is that someday Barbara Walters will come out of retirement and make him cry on ABC. He lives in a state of adoring bliss with his husband, actor John Ainsworth, and their furry children, Mr. Kitty and Gazpacho the Chihuahua. It seems as though things couldn’t get much better, but day by day, they to do. Follow him on www.shawn-ryan.com
Sherron Mills, N.P. has been a lesbian health care practitioner and activist for many years. In 1980 she co-founded Lyon-Martin Women’s Health Services, the country’s first non-profit clinic to serve the lesbian community. She then went on in 1984 to launch Pacific Reproductive Services to provide sperm bank, fertility and insemination services primarily to Ill lesbians. Knowing that many of her clients would greatly value the opportunity for their children to meet their sperm donors, should they wish to do so, she was an early pioneer in recruiting men who would contractually agree to meet a child at least once after he or she reaches 18. As a result, PRS today has more Stephanie Papadakis is originally from southern California. Stephanie knew she wanted to live in San Francisco from the age of 10 (but had no clue she liked women). When she’s not working at a lesbian travel company in SF, she spends her time cooking delicious paleo meals, climbing rugged mountains, exercising daily, researching random trivia knowledge, making “dream lists” on Airbnb, and planning day-, weekend- and weeklong dates with her partner, Sara.
Sweet Baby J’ai is a writer, singer, composer, arranger, educator, and the Artistic Director ofthe Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival. A creative force on the music scene for over two ~ decades, she tours the world with her genre-defying work, which both embraces and expands - jazz tradition. She has worked in various capacities, including talent buyer for major music events throughout the country. She also serves as Creative Managing Director for the Educational Theatre Institute.
Toni Hart has had many careers, including her favorite- freelance writing. Early on she was a child actress and after college, became a designer of women’s & children’s fashions. After a pause to have three children, she turned to Mortgage Banking, retiring years later as VP/Administrator of the mortgage Dept. She’s become a hard working volunteer for many venues. To support her wonderful gay daughter, her attention is now zestfully supporting the LGBT cause.
Victoria Bearden has practiced astrology for over 30 years, with clients across the country and abroad. To set up a personal consultation you can call her at 760-634-1028 or visit her website at www.astrologervic.com April 2018
CONTENTS
LESBIAN NEWS
COVER STORY
LOVE AS DISOBEDIENCE Sebastián Lelio goes Hollywood with a lesbian romance. By Joseph F. Nacino
FEATURE
INSIDE LN BRAVE TRAILS HOSTS FOURTH ANNUAL CAMP OUT BENEFIT SOIREE With special guests: Hayden Byerly, Jai Rodriguez, and HOTSPOTS Karamo Brown APRIL HOTSPOT By Michel Khordoc SHOWERS
POETRY ANOTHER QUEER LIFESTYLES ESCAPES THE MIDWEST MoviesEyeC FEMASTROLOGY APRIL 2018 AFTER LOUIS: LIFE IN THE STREETS OF GHOSTS LOL An artist-activist looks back in anger. SIMPLY DIVINE By John Esther Notes From Nat MAGGIE ROGERS: MESSY, FLAWED, BUT HONEST A new artist walks off her old folk persona and steps into pop fandom. By Nat Burns
Follow Us Online! Spirituality LESBIANNEWS.COM BROKEN HEART By Dina Evan, PhD
Let us know what you think. COLUMNS Words that Make Sense TODAY’S CHILDREN Life was a lot easier in the ”good old days”. By Teri Hart
Queerly Questioning LONE WOLVES AND BAD APPLES Why is there any hesitation to identify these forms of brutality for what they are? By Rheana Juno Parrenas
Positive Reflections SOME PEOPLE ARE JUST RATS Be careful when you are in a car accident and be sure to get a police report. By Dian Katz, MS
Dyke Musing I YEARN FOR ECSTACY By Sue Moore Find More Single Lesbian Women at LezMeetOnline.com
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LOVE AS DISOBEDIENCE Sebastián Lelio goes Hollywood with a lesbian romance. By Joseph F. Nacino
kiss can be a powerful because of the film—or the onscreen kiss to bring Rachel Weisz’s, Rachel McAdams’ symbol, signifying love, shared by Weisz and McAdams, something (i.e. and Alessandro Nivola’s powerful and honest affection, or passion. For a passionate kiss between two women) you performances to audiences across the country the LGBTQ people, a kiss don’t get to see a lot in Hollywood? next year.” in public is also used as a sign of resistance. But there Likewise, Karpen said of Lelio: “Sebastian has are others who view a kiss as a sign of the FROM ONE MOVIE TO ANOTHER captured, with real authenticity, the universality forbidden—or disobedience. of love and faith, and the strength and sacrifice A First premiering at the Toronto Film Festival last it takes to fight for what you believe in,” Even as his last movie, A Fantastic Woman, won September 10, 2017, Disobedience is set to be the 2017 Oscar for Best Foreign Film, award- released in the US by film distributor Bleeker The movie will also screen at the 2018 Tribeca winning Chilean director Sebastián Lelio quickly Street in select theatres in New York and Los Film Festival this April 18-29 as part of the roster followed this up with Disobedience, a movie Angeles on April 27, and a national rollout by of the Spotlight Narrative. starring internationally-acclaimed actresses May. Rachel Weisz and Rachel McAdams. It might look like Lelio has gone mainstream after In a press statement released last year when the A Fantastic Woman, given that Disobedience has With the release of its trailer, Disobedience company acquired the movie, Andrew Karpen, Hollywood mainstays like Weisz and McAdams. quickly garnered a lot of interest. But is it CEO of Bleeker Street, said: “We’re excited Likewise, this year, he’s reimagining his fourth film, Gloria, but this time with a US cast starring A STORY ABOUT FORBIDDEN LOVE Unfortunately, Dovid and Esti’s relationship Julianne Moore, John Turturro, and Michael has dried up and this becomes the tinder to Cera. Disobedience is centred on Ronit Krushka the sparks that fly during the reunion between (played by Weisz), a New York photographer Ronit and Esti—suggesting that the historical Fortunately, Lelio wants to make the stories who needs to come home after receiving friendship between the two wasn’t as platonic that interest him, and these stories that aren’t news about the death of her father, who is a as others would think. limited from a male perspective. From a divorced well-esteemed rabbi of an Orthodox Jewish woman finding a new life for herself in Gloria community in London. It is here that the concept of disobedience comes to a transgender woman gaining strength in in, something that the LGBTQ people are all too the face of grief and adversity in A Fantastic Back home, Ronit is received with mixed and familiar with. Woman, his new film Disobedience is about guarded feelings: the daughter of a respected two women rediscovering love while struggling figure in the community who had rebelled If you think the kiss you saw in the trailer is any against ostracism from their community. against her father by running away to make a indication of the passion that underlies Ronit life of her own, and is a non-practicing Orthodox and Esti’s relationship, you would be right as the What’s more, this movie is adapted from Naomi Jew as well. two women not only have to deal with Dovid but Alderman’s debut novel with the same title, also with their disapproving community as they which was first published in 2006. So yes, Lelio Ronit steps into a complicated situation between untangle the feelings behind their relationship. does seem to be open to letting his movies Dovid (played by Alessandro Nivola), her father’s speak for others who may not have a voice of favourite pupil and now becoming as respected The reviews for the movie have been generally their own. a rabbi as her father was, and Esti (played by positive, with David Rooney of The Hollywood McAdams), her former best friend who has now Reporter describing Disobedience as “a married Dovid. transfixing consideration of love, faith, sexuality, and personal freedom.” lesbians—but they’re pretty much strong though A Fantastic Woman: “It was an opportunity to complicated women. (We also want to note explore unknown territories and get beyond Meanwhile, Andrew Barker of Variety said the that Weisz not only stars in this movie but also my own ignorance, to get to a new place as a movie gives a “striking and warmly nuanced had a hand in producing the adaptation.) So person.” portrait of the kinds of women whose internal this film and the stars are a good match with lives are rarely portrayed on screen.” Lelio directing, given his experience in creating The director does the same with Disobedience, unorthodox female leads. with Lelio exploring the ideas behind Alderman’s novel and drawing incredible performances from BEING TRUE TO THE CHARACTERS “It’s not that I only want to make films about Weisz and McAdams in order to tell its story of women, but from my experience, I have been a forbidden love between two women. It is this aforementioned element that Lelio very interested in the women who play these constantly brings to his filmmaking, his penchant characters,” Lelio told IndieWire. More importantly, he shows the love that the in making the women of his movies as real as LGBTQ people feel for each other isn’t really possible. This is not surprising as he wrote Vega also had praise for the director, saying: “forbidden” love but about being true to oneself Fantastic Woman with Daniela Vega in mind. ““He’s capable of reaching into the actors and despite what others tell us, and that our love Thus, it’s not hard to think Vega as the main bringing out the most beautiful feelings and itself is “an act of defiance.” character Marina fully-realized on the screen. bringing them into the world.”
For Disobedience, Weisz and McAdams aren’t More importantly, Lelio said that with creating TOP
rave Trails, one of the nation’s only leadership summer camps for LGBTQ youth, is thrilled to announce that Hayden Byerly (The Fosters), Jai Rodriguez and Karamo Brown (Bravo’s Queer Eye For the Straight Guy) will be making special guest appearances at their Fourth BAnnual Camp Out benefit event at The Garland Hotel’s very private Beverly Park.
The benefit serves as a major revenue- generating event to fund essential programs and operations to ensure that Brave Trails programs continue to thrive.
“To think just three years ago we welcomed 43 LGBTQ youth to our camp and now this year we are going to welcome more than 240 LGBTQ youth! Clearly this safe space for LGBTQ youth to develop their leadership skills is much needed. We are proud to be one of the nation’s only leadership focused summer camps that truly empowers these kids to become amazing leaders and change-makers back in their communities,” says Jessica and Kayla Ryan Weissbuch (co-Founders).
The evening will be filled with star-studded appearances by Hayden Byerly of The Fosters, Karamo Brown from Queer Eye, Jai Rodriguez and Jamel King.
An open bar, camp inspired food, campy games (with not so campy prizes), and incredible performances by the internationally renowned Stilt World and incredibly talented Brave Trails’ campers will be the highlight of the evening.
Tickets are just $75. The goal of the evening is to raise over $100K.
“It is time for the LGBTQ community to come together and celebrate and support these amazing young LGBTQ future leaders. Our organization relies on individual donations to continue to operate,” says Daniel Bauer, Brave Trails Development Manager. BRAVE TRAILS HOSTS FOURTH Tickets can be purchased and additional event ANNUAL CAMP OUT BENEFIT SOIREE information can be viewed at www.bravetrails. With special guests: Hayden Byerly, Jai Rodriguez, and org/campout Karamo Brown Brave Trails is a non-profit organization based in By Michel Khordoc Los Angeles, CA with a mission of transforming LGBTQ youth and families into leaders through summer camp and innovative programming. In 2015, Brave Trails opened their doors welcoming just 43 LGBTQ youth to camp.
This year, Brave Trails will welcome over 240 LGBTQ+ youth, launch their very first LGBTQ Family Camp, and test-pilot a year- round mentorship program. Youth who attend summer camp are empowered to return to their communities to make change. Examples include youth starting their own Gay-Straight Alliance School Club, or fighting for equality in school policies, or conducting other community service programs for the better of their communities. Brave Trails is proud to be one of the only safe spaces for the LGBTQ youth community where leadership, service, self-realization and social justice are key focus areas for youth to engage and learn.
For more information about Brave Trails visit www.bravetrails.org
TOP
MoviesEyeC
AFTER LOUIS: LIFE IN THE STREETS OF GHOSTS An artist-activist looks back in anger. By John Esther
low-key counterpoint/ through the gay community, it was not unusual These days, Sam, once a renowned artist, drinks, compliment to last year’s for Sam to go to multiple funerals, visit sick smokes and hires rent boys to past the time. He invigorating “BPM,” director ones dying, or preventing someone from being is seriously disillusioned with the apathy of the and co-writer Vincent evicted due to the illness, every week. He, and day. He no longer paints, but is now working Gagliostro’s “After Louie” his fellow AIDS activists, both men and women, on a video project about his ex-lover, William looks at the life of an artist- gay and straight allies, literally and figuratively, Wilson (David Drake), an author who died many activist once the anger subsides and the despair died in the quest for equal rights. years ago from an AIDS-related illness. sets in. A “There are those with AIDS and those who fight To the narrative’s credit, the video project is not As a gay man who experienced his young for those with AIDS on one side and everyone exactly interesting or revealing, and the more adulthood through the 1980s-1990s in New York else on the other side,” a narrator tells us during we learn about William, the less we may not City, Sam Cooper (Alan Cumming) has seen one of the home videos in the film. like him but, nonetheless, feel pathos for him more than his share of death. As AIDS swept and his loss of life. When one of his friends, Max/Maggie (Sarita Choudhury), chides his for followed the next morning. Officially, Braeden be taken for granted for those with no historical making premature plans, William whips back, and Lukas are in an open relationship, but it education (or if one is a Log Cabin Republican). “My impending death is premature!” Indeed. is obvious Braeden is more comfortable with it And that seems to be the assumption of Sam than Lukas, who, by the way, is undetectable who pines for the brotherhood and social One night at a bar, the 54-year-old Sam makes HIV positive. engagement of the past, where lives were at a connection with Braeden Devries (Zachary stake on a routine level -- something other than Booth), an “almost 30” man who is no dummy. Sam and Lukas begin to spend considerable war, the film points out. But these are generation time together with Sam continuing to pay Lukas generalizations the film attempts to usurp. The two go back to Sam’s place. The next and Lukas accepting the money. Is Sam trying morning Braeden finds $500 in his shoes. Sam to recapture his youth though Lukas. What are A bit awkward at some points in terms of pace has paid him for the overnight session. Although Lukas’s motives for sleeping with someone his -- the first bar scene with Sam’s pals, the couple Braeden is not a prostitute he says nothing and father’s age (now deceased)? The film answers Mateo (William Cruz) and Jeffrey (Patrick Breen) keeps the money. these questions both literally and figuratively is too stagy -- “After Louie” warrants attention (again with that phrase). for its political engagement and argument for However, when Braeden gets home, he informs discourse in an age of dissent. his boyfriend, Lukas (Anthony Johnston), of In the day and age of marriage equality (which his encounter last night and the money which still remains under threat), LGBTQA rights may TOP
Notes From Nat
MAGGIE ROGERS: MESSY, FLAWED, BUT HONEST A new artist walks off her old folk persona and steps into pop fandom. By Nat Burns
ave you heard of Maggie A sampling of her music, acoustic style— First was the harp, no surprise as she cut Rogers yet? She’s fun. A true her teeth on classical music and mellow soul. earth child, a back to the land NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert: Eventually, once in school, she added banjo, being, she once said she had https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SqPtIkxSxI0 piano and guitar. She also became an avid several spiritual experiences lyricist. By the time the middle of high school in nature that brought her Hailing from rural Maryland, this Gen Y-er artist rolled around, she knew what her career would home to music after being away from it for began playing musical instruments at a very be, so she signed up for the Berklee College of Hseveral years. young age. Music summer program. She recorded her first album, The Echo, while still in school and used it to apply to New York University’s Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music. While there she released another album Blood Ballet.
Though originally a folk-based artist, while studying in France, she discovered electronic music as well as dance music. This spawned a whole new interest and direction to her music and she wrote her hit song “Alaska” in about fifteen minutes after a two-year writing hiatus. This intriguing, individualistic song received a huge nod of approval from singer and The Neptunes producer, Pharrell Williams, during a master class at NYU. In fact, he stated, on video, that he simply couldn’t compare her unique work to anything else.
Alaska: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=PNWsW6c6t8g
Yet you can see her musical influences hovering about her— Bjork and Patti Smith for example, but I also see a younger, milder Janis Joplin when I watch her. Even her performance outfits and her erratic movements make me think of Joplin. Though her voice is better modulated, she also uses a sliding note range to convey emotion, much as Joplin did.
Here’s a 2013 single, Split Stones, which is a lot of fun: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHi5jq2P_ Zk
Roger’s latest EP album, Now That The Light Is Fading, was released in early 2017 and has been very well received. She’s even been on the Tonight Show, promoting it: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=wAw2UJMLb4o
A few songs from the EP, Now That The Light Is Fading—
On + Off: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=cdIBxhONpC0
Dog Years: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=NgWC5oEuyjU One interesting thing she said in a 2017 The Guardian interview is that she wants to make, music you can dance to and cry to at the same time, such as Robyn’s “Dancing On My Own” for example.
Robyn: Dancing On My Own https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=CcNo07Xp8aQ
I predict good things for this singer/songwriter. Read her complex and very well-written lyrics. This songwriting ability is what gives her music great depth and meaning. Her background percussion alone, featuring sounds from nature, is captivating on their own.
Rogers has four previous releases, mostly available online, folksy releases featuring her on guitar and banjo. Try this one—
Blood Ballet: https://maggierogers.bandcamp.com
These releases portray a calmer, more reflective persona. And truthfully, I like these as much as her newer work. But, as with any artist, she continues to mature and change as life experiences mold and craft her into the full- blown adult she must one day become.
Here’s the video with Pharrell Williams at NYU: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=G0u7lXy7pDg&feature=youtu. be&t=18m24s
© 2017 Debay Sounds LLC Capitol Records www.maggierogers.com
Always remember, if the links won’t open, copy and paste them into your browser.
‘Til next month—
Nat TOP
Spirituality
BROKEN HEART By Dina Evan, PhD
Some of the things that are happening today can break your heart open.
That’s part of the gift they give.
If we are not willing to have our hearts broken open, there can be no new learning, no resolve to do it better, no personal decision to stand for what is ethical and spiritual.
So, when you feel your heart is broken,
just breathe and celebrate your courage.
There are those who feel nothing and that is never an option for those who are awake.
TOP VISIT VISIT SITE WEBSITE
Vendange is the perfect getaway desti- You’ll see what makes Vendange a once The separate Cottage Suite offers a gen- nation located in the village of Carmel - in a lifetime stay. Their gardens, the grand erous 650 square feet of living space. by - the - Sea. It is the fi rst wine themed pergola, drinking a glass of wine around With a California King bed, 50” high defi - Inn in all of Carmel and Monterey. the fi re pit, or stopping by the lobby for nition fl at screen television, gas fi replace nightly hors d’oeuvres, will make your trip and kitchenette, it’s the perfect place for Each room is named after a local winery. more memorable. a honeymoon or romantic getaway. These partnered wineries design their own rooms in their own creative man- There are 18 rooms in the Inn which is The Inn offers breakfast daily. Wine ner, providing guests with a memorable owned and operated by the Lee family. Themed Rooms: are Dawn’s Dream, and fun experience. Carmel Beach, has Sleeping areas are appointed with mem- Galante, J. Lohr, Joullian, Manzoni, McIn- exquisite shops, world class restaurants ory foamtop beds, deluxe linens, WiFi, tyre, Otter Cove, Pierce Winery, Tudor, and beautiful beaches. and high-defi nition fl at screen TV. Twisted Roots, Ventana, Cima Colina. Glendale Branch MTAC, Karina Yeproyan, President Southern California Junior Bach Festival, Mark Sullivan, General Chair proudly present... Johann Sebastian BACH Double-Header Lecture/Demonstration
11AM, Thursday morning, April 5, 2018 STEINWAY HALL, 150 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA Featuring Glendale Branch MTAC members
Jeffrey Carl LAVNER MATTHES
Bach on the Clavichord and Piano Bach Rediscoverd A look at rhythm, phrasing, and articulation on the Paul Elie's book, “Reinventing Bach" and Karl modern piano as it relates to Bach's favorite instru- Keringer's “J.S. Bach: The Culmination of an Era," ment for much of his ouvre- the clavichord. I will play form the basis of my lecture/demonstration. Using several pieces and excerpts on the clavichord, and talk piano transcription by Bach, Busoni, Siloti and Hess, about the work needed in moving to the piano. I would we will follow Bach’s music from the Church to the also love to have teachers play a bit on the clavichord, Concert Stage to Recordings and Movies and it's use, even if it is a little minuet or prelude, as understanding on the piano, as learning and teaching material for often comes from the physical act of playing the music. generations of students and musicians. Guests are welcomed Words that Make Sense
TODAY’S CHILDREN Life was a lot easier in the ”good old days”. By Teri Hart t my advanced age, I feel Women were expected to stay home and take sorry for the kids of today. care of the children and the house. It wasn’t They have to be absolute until the onset of World War ll that women were geniuses to handle all the hired in factories and offices to replace the men electronics in today’s world. who went to war. Golly, we were so lucky. Playing outside was a blast. Although, we luckily didn’t have the war come as far as the US border, a few enemy submarines AAll we had to do was make up a game with our were seen in the area but no shots were fired. imagination or the combined imagination of all our playmates. However, we took a lot of precautions. On the west coast, we had blackouts at night where Cops and robbers or cowboys and Indians no light from your house was allowed to show were a favorite for the boys. Baby dolls, their outside. We would all huddle in a closed off clothes and accessories were a fav for the girls. room around the family radio listening to Jack Sometimes boys grudgingly let us join in their Benny, Milton Berle, Gracie Allen and other games, but then it had to be a favorite of theirs funny comedians of the time to keep our spirits and usually entailed shoot ‘em up stuff which up. we tired of long before they did. How many kids do you see playing outside today? We also had some wonderful movies of the era... musicals and dramas to keep us from thinking Computers... hah... not invented yet... although war all the time. Many of our nations’ sons didn’t there was a watch used to communicate with make it back and that was hard to deal with and others worn by Dick Tracy in the Times comics. broke our hearts. Flash Gordon-also on the comic page had all sorts of weapons from the future. But, life goes on, the war ended and we were overjoyed. We always thought of them as make believe and let it go at that although we liked to see him in However, life was not the same. Because of the the Saturday movie shows we could attend for war, many new inventions became available and only10 cents. the computer had been invented and changed life as we knew it. It became smaller and smaller Boy, what a bargain that was—a movie, a serial and today’s models are unbelievable as you with an exciting cast including a villain and “good already know and can be smaller than a human guys”, as well as the news with everything that hair. was happening in our nation plus a few cartoons to boot. Now it seems computers do everything if we can just figure out exactly how to use them with However, before you consider 10 cents too much their constant stream of changes and upgrades! of a bargain, take into mind that the average worker was earning a dollar an hour or less. Bread was a dime and there were candy stores with huge selections of candy for only a penny! Gasoline was about 15 cents a gallon and you got circle service included free! Doctors came to your house when you were ill and were much, much, cheaper than they are today.
If you wanted to make a phone call from your house, you could... provided that the other person on your “party line” didn’t get there first.
Busses and street cars took you to your destination. Usually, there was only one car in the family and that was for the man of the house. TOP
JUNE 19-25 2018
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LONE WOLVES AND BAD APPLES Why is there any hesitation to identify these forms of brutality for what they are? By Rheana Juno Parrenas hite supremacy pursuit of political aims, following the Oxford Such people have a hard time seeing that their and its twin brother English Dictionary? attitudes support white supremacy and toxic toxic masculinity masculinity. They deny the existence of racism, frequently show Hear me out: I think the reason there is even when evidence shows them otherwise. The their ugly faces. hesitation is because recognizing these acts same people often deny recognizing the toxic We see it daily of violence for what they are would require a masculinity that fosters the ability of white men from the so-called alt-right and the orange deep reckoning with the pervasiveness of both and boys to carry out mass shootings. This feels clown they support. We see it from the snow- white supremacy and toxic masculinity. Think especially acute for me, even in my supposed Whaired Yosemite Sam come to life, ready to about the coverage of the Austin bomber as a bubble of a life as a women’s studies professor. wage war against North Korea and/or Iran. We “challenged young man.” A challenged young especially see it in the coverage of violent acts, man is someone like his victim, Draylen Mason, The other day, I asked my students to fill out especially those committed by “lone wolves” or who rose to the challenge of artfully playing anonymous midterm evaluations of a course “bad apples.” music and becoming a black belt martial artist they are taking with me that I developed on food while excelling in school. and gender. One student complained that they The Las Vegas concert shooting, the Austin did not like that section about sugar plantations package bombs that targeted black households, His killer was not a challenged man, but because it involved too much discussion about and the 20 gunshots Sacramento police officers someone who felt he had the right to kill and slavery and its aftermath. It was just two academic used to kill Stephon Clark deserve the moniker take away futures that could never be his. From journal articles and the film, Sugar Cane Alley. of “terrorism” or “domestic terrorism,” yet those where does such a sense of entitlement stem? They wished to have “less biased” perspectives. outside of progressive circles hardly ever use Those who reject the idea that this violence is Did the materials criticizing slavery make the either term for such violent acts. terrorism say that there is no politics in this. But student want materials praising slavery? Why the shyness about this? Why is there any this idea depends on a shallow understanding hesitation to identify these forms of brutality for of politics. Politics is not just about belonging This student’s discomfort at having to recognize what they are, which fit dictionary definitions of in a political organization. Politics is about how the intertwined and ongoing legacies of racism terrorism: the systematic use of terror especially to live together in a polis or city: what are our and misogyny is the same discomfort that as a means of coercion, following Merriam- orientations to each other? What are the social allows those in deep states of denial to dismiss Webster, or the unlawful use of violence and and cultural factors that shape the norms of how terrorism as the work of lone wolves and bad intimidation, especially against civilians, in the we think about the world and about each other? apples. TOP Positive Reflections
SOME PEOPLE ARE JUST RATS Be careful when you are in a car accident and be sure to get a police report. By Dian Katz, MS ometimes, a traumatic situation It is very easy to think we know someone or so cool at the time. He told me he really didn’t can tell us a lot about people. trust what a person says. Again, in an intense want to go through his insurance and he wanted Adversity seems to bring out the situation, a person with unhealthy behavior may to just pay out of pocket. strong core side of someone. In try to fool us at first. However, during the event, other words, if an individual is I did realize something wasn’t right and had to Wow. I actually felt bad for him. I told him I’m basically good and kind most of take extra care. This situation involved a car fine and that I had no problems with what he the time, trauma may intensify these emotions crash. offered. I also told him that I would get a couple and this person will be even kinder and more of estimates, try to find the cheapest ones, and Scompassionate. Some time ago, I was backing my car out of then he can just write me a check. He agreed. my driveway. As I slowly moved forward to Seemed okay, right? I thought so too. On the other hand, if a person has an abusive leave, out of nowhere, a truck came flying by to or a dark side to his/her personality, a traumatic pass me on my right. I didn’t see him so when I The day after, I messaged him about the time can bring out an even darker and more veered to the right… BAM! He dragged my car estimates. NOW HE WAS A COMPLETELY disturbed side of the individual. for several hundred feet while my car scraped, DIFFERENT GUY! He told me “I” was stopped crunched, and screeched against his truck. I in middle of the street, so he ran into me AND If we are the ones involved in the adverse was so taken off guard that I didn’t know what said he WASN’T driving fast like I had said. He situation, we are challenged to maintain a strong happened. When my car stopped, I thought, “Did told me it was my fault and how would I like to level of integrity. The situation will determine I not see this guy and he slammed into me?” I pay for his truck?! How would “I” like to pay? whether we succeed or not. Not everyone who is was confused. It happened so fast and it was a decent human being will display good behavior unexpected in a residential area. He’s got to be kidding. I sound really screwed in the beginning, BUT they will eventually show now, right? I didn’t get a police report because up and dominate the situation. I got out of my vehicle. The driver and his dad I figured since no one had been hurt, we could who was his passenger got out of theirs as well. settle it without one. I supposed he thought the I had an experience where I was able to see the The driver seemed like the nicest guy. He kept same thing. “real” side of a person. In other words, I was asking me if I was ok. My car was smashed able to see a person’s true colors. I originally pretty badly but I was fine. We exchanged info, Big mistake on my part! So now, it is a “he said, thought I saw them at first but was easily fooled. took pictures, and talked. I thought he “seemed” she said” situation. He also told me his father was a witness! A witness! Oh great, he has a WELL NO MORE MR. NICE GUY! That’s it! I found a great repair shop without worrying witness and I don’t. Now I really sound even about the price and was entitled to a rental. So MORE screwed, right? I texted this dude and told him his version of the Dian picks an awesome 4x4 wheel drive, off- accident did not go with “my video”... AND I sent road, 2018 truck to cruise around in. To think Not so fast. I had a trump card to play. Yep, I him the video. Hmm, interesting. He stopped that this guy lied right off the bat and was even had a back-up plan that was almost foolproof. talking to me. I never heard from him again. having his father lie… it was just unbelievable. Can you guess what it was? Not a witness... but To think I tried to be understanding and promised EVEN better...! Now a lady from HIS insurance calls me a few to get the cheapest estimates I could find. To days later to ask me how I would like to pay for think I wanted to live up to my word and finding Where I live, EVERYONE has video cameras the damage! You have got to be fricken kidding out that not everyone else does. on their houses and video doorbells these days. me! Pay for HIS damage? Who does this guy Guess who received a video of the accident? think he is! Um, lady, you haven’t seen my video Anyway, I learned a lot that day. Moi! yet. But you certainly will! First, always get a police report. Yep, I did. I played it and wow, was I surprised. By that time, I had already called my insurance Since I really didn’t know what happened, and and they told me that since his dad is the owner Second, never say you’re fine until you know for the guy narrated the scenario step-by-step, of the car, he can’t be a witness! They also said sure after the initial crash. the video showed EXACTLY what happened. they want my video footage ASAP. I backed out, put it in drive, and went forward Third, don’t believe everything everyone says about 3 miles an hour a few feet. And here With a few clicks here and there, they were at the scene of an accident. comes a truck barreling down on the right of me able to watch the video. Once they saw it, I NEVER applying brakes whatsoever. I guess he got a message right away saying, “I have just And lastly, it’s great to have something up your just wanted to try to pass me by because I was reviewed the videos and I am placing you NOT sleeve in order to deliver some karma to a starting forward and apparently was going too AT FAULT. You were in control of the lane and bullshitter. slow for him. I realized, wow! Here I was being the other vehicle attempted to pass you on the nice to this guy?? right.”
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Dyke Musing
I YEARN FOR ECSTACY By Sue Moore
I yearn for the return of ecstacy As earth yearns for the return of spring each year Sobbing greenly in relief But I yearn for the return of joy. fountains of laughter bubbling up This discontented winter to wash creases from sullen cheeks Seemed to drag on too long, dreams and aspirations Turnings eyes into merry dancing crescents Frozen in the choked root, I yearn for full moon madness Grey and dismal thwarted plans, And unbridled sprees Lost loves scattered on the ground I yearn for youthful excess Curling up at the edges. And exuberance. I yearn for Ecstasy!!!
Reading the newspaper, Black bordered ads announced Bereavement of those unknown to me. I welcomed the chance to grieve For the lost loves of strangers, simple words Of sorrow and condolence Carried more weight for me Than the heavy wisdom of Plato, Shakespeare or Sartre Combined.
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HotSpots
APRIL HOTSPOT SHOWERS So many things to do this springtime. By Dian Katz, MS pril is here! April showers CLEXACON LAS VEGAS event celebrates and promotes female LGBTQ bring May flowers! Wait, characters in movies, TV shows, web series, April is in the shower? Who’s Something big is happening in Vegas, baby! It’s books, and comic books. Whether you are a April? Ahem, never mind. the CLEXACON LAS VEGAS on April 5 to 9 at fangirl, a creator, an activist, or all of the above, Happy Hotspots ladies! I’ve Tropicana. What is this you ask? Maybe April will ClexaCon offers something for everyone,” says been all over town searching tell us
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Poetry
ANOTHER QUEER ESCAPES THE MIDWEST By Morag Hillsinger
I kept my job I blended in At Thanksgiving table Then one day By changing pronouns, My blond hair long While you prayed for those She roared into my street Dressing for Success And I laughed at jokes about Who were not saved Shaven head, uncompromising, Which meant wearing a dress, Dumb blonds. And the Fox news droned on And my world lost its shit. For success. (a soundtrack for family) As they hunkered down, I shrank. She held out her hand . . . And I took it.
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Femastrology
APRIL 2018 By Astrologer and Psychic, Victoria Bearden
he Sun in Aries says “Go, go, Capricorn, there might not be many shortcuts get your ducks in a row and get ready for a big go!” and Mercury Retrograde this month. energy surge as April 2018 unfolds. says “Slow, slow, slow!” And sometimes Mercury Retrograde Fiery Aries energy represents our will to live. The Sun in Aries asks us these questions: just says flat out NO. Oh, snap! It’s our sense of self-determination. Earthy Are you in touch with your passion and desire? I hate it when that happens! It’s Capricorn is about structure and order in Do you have a healthy sense of self? What kind not that we can’t move forward now, it’s just a our lives. It’s about commitment, work, and of new experiences would you like to have in little complicated. persistence. The extra patience required during 2018? Are you willing to take some calculated T the first part of April can lead to friction and risks? What does your Inner Warrior need to With the Sun and Mercury Retrograde in Aries frustration. But there is a major energy shift stand up for at this time? squaring off with Mars, Saturn, and Pluto in mid-month that will be a real game changer. So, We live in a world of mixed messages about the well as creative and artistic ones. There is a ego. On the one hand, everyone loves a winner, Soon all the missed appointments, technological nice astrological opportunity period on this day, and success is often the measure of the person, breakdowns, and fouled up communication will so take advantage of this if you need a little luck even though we’d like to think we aren’t that be behind us. with your endeavors. shallow or judgmental. This is a big pivot point, as there is a New Moon There’s a Full Moon at 09° Scorpio on Sunday, At the same time, people cringe at the blatant at 26° Aries on the same day! New Moons April 29, 2018 PDT. The Full Moon in Scorpio self-importance and egocentric behavior we see represent a clean slate and a chance to begin stirs things up at the deepest levels. in the rich and powerful in the public arena. again. Often, if we aren’t swept up in the intensity So where is the balance? The lesson of Aries is Mercury Direct, the Sun, the Moon, and Uranus of emotion, great truths and insights can be that of honoring your Individual Spirit. Embrace line up open a doorway to power, change, uncovered. your sense of self-respect, dignity, and self- and self-realization. With the Sun and Moon worth. in Aries squaring off with Pluto in Capricorn, There is a Moon Wobble, where the Full Moon we are challenged to take a good look at squares the lunar nodes, which will undoubtedly Your bravery and integrity will enliven and old, imprisoning patterns of belief that have spark strong emotional reactions in some brighten your life path and inspire others. Self- diminished our sense of self-worth. It’s time to people. So, keep these in mind if you notice centeredness is then replaced by a “centered” break free from stagnation and set your life in people acting a little more “looney” than they self. motion. New projects and ideas can really take usually do on the Full Moon. off now, so roll the dice and take some chances. Mercury, the planet of communication, goes Direct on Sunday, April 15, 2018 PDT. Yippee! The Sun will enter Earth Sign Taurus on Opportunity Days: April 5, 6, 10, 12, 13, 15, Keep in mind that it takes a few days for things Thursday, April 19, 2018. Taurus represents 16, 17, 19, 25, 29 and 30 to really start straightening out after weeks of both physicality and creativity. This vibration Mercury Retrograde Madness! supports practical and financial activities, as Aries (March 21-April 19) Libra (September 23-October 22) This is a time of new beginnings for you. You will feel your sense There’s a strong push and pull going on between your needs and of optimism on the rise. Things you have been putting up with for the needs of others. Speak your truth, hold your ground, and have months may finally start to yield. By mid-month Mercury Direct in Aries good boundaries. There is also an enormous amount of creative energy will provide additional energy and encouragement for your activities and coming into your life. You need time to work on your own projects, so projects. Work and responsibilities may seem a bit confining, but you will don’t over extend yourself. Other people will have a lot to offer and be able to find the balance you need. Mantra: Rebirth people will support you if you are clear about what you want. Mantra: Clarity Taurus (April 20-May 20) Venus, your ruling planet, is in Taurus, providing you with a wealth Scorpio (October 23-November 21) of creative inspiration. Single Taurus natives could find love under It’s time for a review of your Body, Mind, Spirit connection. Is your this influence. Your sense of self is changing and your confidence is daily routine supporting you? You’ll get a lot more done if you growing stronger. Your insights and intuitions are powerful now, so pay aren’t running on empty. Take the time to bring diet and exercise into attention to your hunches and impressions. Capricorn planets align alignment with your duties and obligations. You have a lot of mental to support a new period of building and growth in your life. Find your energy now, just make sure you are paying attention to the physical part balance and gather your strength, as May will be full of surprises and of the equation. Mantra: Nourish opportunities. Mantra: Create Sagittarius (November 22-December 21) Gemini (May 21-June 20) This is a time of creativity and enthusiasm. New things are happening It’s a fortunate time to connect with people, both in business and and your world is opening up and changing. Let others know how socially. New opportunities for friendship could arise. If you are you feel. Don’t be afraid to express yourself. Allow inspiration to guide associated with any groups or organizations, it’s time to attend some you. Let the Universe, and others, know what you really want and need meetings or rallies. Others will be willing to share their ideas with you, and the most. This is a lucky time for love. The only reality check might come teamwork and group projects should go well. Single Geminis may meet around finances and your physical energy. Mantra: Inspiration someone interesting through mutual friends. Finish up old business at the beginning of the month so you are ready for something (or someone) Capricorn (December 22-January 19) new. Mantra: Connect with your Tribe This is a good time to get your home environment into harmony. You need a good energy flow around you. Clear out unwanted “stuff” Cancer (June 21-July 21) that’s been accumulating. Get needed supplies and replace things that Focus on work and projects that represent the “Big Picture” of your have worn out or aren’t working any more. Create an atmosphere that is life. There may be some heavy demands on your time now, but a safe, secure, and serene. This is also a good time to bring harmony into great deal can be accomplished if you focus and keep moving forward. family relationships, too. Mantra: Energy Flow Try not to over commit yourself, as you will be tempted to do so. Find ways to blow off steam and relax when you are not working, as you will Aquarius (January 20-February 18) need to restore your energy reserves. Mantra: Big Goals This is a time to learn and exchange ideas and information. Others will be receptive to your thoughts. This is a good time to network Leo (July 23-August 22) and share. If there is knowledge you have been seeking, you will find it This is a favorable cycle for work, travel, education, and legal now. Things will be busy, but you will also get a lot done. Just remember matters. That covers a lot of bases! Keep your mind focused on to stay focused. Important messages you’ve been hoping for are likely to things that represent expansion, new experiences, and growth. If you come through by mid-month. Mantra: Networking have an opportunity to learn a new skill or take a class or workshop, do it. You’ll get a lot out of it. Some Leos may need to find ways to de-stress Pisces (February 19-March 20) at work. Taking a short trip or a few days off could offer inspiration and This is a fortunate time for money and practical matters. Don’t be a needed change of perspective. Mantra: Optimism afraid to spend money on some things you really need. But don’t make any really big purchases until the end of the month, after Mercury Virgo (August 23-September 22) goes direct. You are gaining a sense of balance in your worldly affairs. Face your fears and take a look at your life. What’s holding you You could have an opportunity to make more money. Pisces who need back? Are you holding on to an old pattern that just isn’t working employment will likely find it now. Mantra: Abundance anymore? Find your courage, dig deep, and put effort into clearing up things that have been causing you problems. It’s time to get things in order in your life. Find ways to bring in balance, cooperation, and healing. Resolving unfinished business will give you a chance to feel creative and free. Mantra: Resolution
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Lesbians On Location
Simply diVine was a marvelous celebration, with generous support from our Simply diVine sponsors Wells Fargo, Hollywood Forever, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Gilead Lost Angeles LGBT Center Sciences! Thanks to our restaurant and beverage partners, volunteers and staff, and all of the amazing attendees who helped us celebrate the community! TOP TOP
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n her work of the past three years Rose models, and their influence is readily apparent. examples of De Kooning, Picasso, et al, as just Masterpol has been oscillating between Masterpol recapitulates that influence with that – examples of spirit, more important to a drawn line, animated by color as well remarkable intelligence and sensitivity: these her for their attitude than for their manner. She as its own flagellating trail, and a more are genuine, unabashed Abstract Expressionist has learned from them, for instance, to pace painterly stroke that provides given works right down to their Surrealist reliance on herself across a visual field – but the pace she expanses with texture as well as hue. The the impulsive mark and their Cubist articulation maintains is entirely her own. She has learned drawn line assumes a rhythmic animation akin of space. to segue strategically from color to color rather to graffiti writing and on occasion even cartoon than simply dump paint in various areas – but Icaricature, seeming almost choreographed. The irony is that Masterpol’s more “historic” the colors result from her own perception, and Here Masterpol, deliberately or not, proposes painting is, if anything, less studied than her her segues embody her own sensibility. With a translation of hip-hop and other urban dance more “contemporary” work. When she responds every lesson learned, Masterpol finds herself into non-objective painting, perhaps even a kind to the bold moves and bright contrasts of more profoundly as a painter. of notation; certainly, she is re-purposing the today’s pop idioms she picks up on their energy of the “street” to painterly effect. stylizations no less than on their power; she Rose Masterpol would seem to be two painters in reflects the fact that, even while they depend one. In fact, she is one painter paying attention That level of energy carries over into Masterpol’s on boundless invention, the popular arts allow to two modes of expression. Both those modes larger, even more ambitious canvases; but in their artists limited freedom. Like any good pop are urgent and convincing, and she responds to these, she puts aside the self-conscious project artist, Masterpol capitalizes on such restraint by both with insight, conviction, and unmistakable of contemporary reflection and allows herself playing off it, letting restricted modality amplify personality. Those two modes would seem to the luxury of pure painting. If the “drawn” her inventiveness. For truly liberated painting, have little to say to each other; but, like someone paintings manifest a vigorous but studied however, she turns to a tradition of liberty that brought up bi-lingually, Masterpol speaks both response to pop culture, the “painted” paintings she can only inherit from fellow painters. In this with poetic fluency and effortless translation, embody Masterpol’s equally fervent but entirely regard, Masterpol proceeds in the wake of her finding – and building – vivid connections spontaneous response to artists who have come influences with voluble confidence, studying and between them. before her. She cites Joan Mitchell, Pollock, “feeling” rather than simply imitating their imagery De Kooning, Kline, Gorky, and Motherwell as or their method. Indeed, she comprehends the Twisted Roots Vineyard
Happy New Year! Well we are officially into the and cannot be done by machine. Ross, who end up killing the old vines. While only 4 acres New Year and that means a fresh new start, with spent his entire life on the vineyard and learned remain of the original vineyard from 1918, we new goals and expectations of what is ahead from his father on how to properly prune our always struggle with wanting to maximize the of us this year. Well the vineyards of Twisted vines, so that just the right amount of grapes number of bottles each year, we always want Roots are no different, we too are eagerly would be produced and the best quality would to protect our family history and want to make awaiting a new start to our growing season. be achieved. sure that the vines are going to be around for Currently the vineyard is pretty bare, so much so the future as well. that one might not see the future as too bright, If we leave too many buds, which means lots given the almost dead look to the vines. This of grapes will be produced, then our wine will So next time you are out and about, and happen time of year, the vines are completely dormant be light and flabby, too few buds and we lose by a vineyard, remember that while it might look and bare, with all the leaves falling off and the tonnage and don’t have enough great wine to like nothing but twigs, there is a lot more going canes all over the place. That being said, this go around. on out there. Someone, somewhere is focused is a very important time of the year, a time that and concerned about how to handle this mess can determine the production and quality of the When it comes to our “1918” Old Vine Zinfandel of twigs. grapes that will ultimately become our 2015 vineyard, the entire situation of pruning changes. vintages. Even though our family has been at As you can see from the picture here, these this for three generations now and almost 100 vines are wild and twisted by their very nature, Cheers, years, it is still the time of year that causes us so pruning becomes very difficult. The key to concern. Pruning is an art of delicate balance; our rich, bold, yet soft flavors in our “1918” Old Josh Ruiz too much will cause small, uneconomical crops; Vine Zinfandel wines, is pruning these vines Co-Owner/Winemaker too little will cause over-cropping and low- so that they don’t over produce and over work quality fruit. Pruning also facilitates cultivation, these old vines. With most of thewood on these disease control and harvesting, when the vines vines being dead and hollow, if we leave the For more info: are trained to a grow in a particular shape. It is same number of buds as the rest of our vines, http://twistedrootsvineyard.orderport.net/wines/ a skill that requires experience and judgment we would end up over working the vines and Current-Releases Susan St. Thomas Gallery
“Stardust Reveries”
An exhibit of celestial abstract art by Susan St. With over 40 years as a professional astrologer, precision painting and loose free flowing washes, Thomas at the Sebastopol Gallery, 150 N Main Susan combines her fascination with the language she integrates avariety of innovative techniques St. Sebastopol, CA 95465. of the stars and her lifelong expression as an to express her imagination. www.sebastopol-gallery.com artist. This collection is inspired by the images 707 829-7200 captured by the Hubble telescope of deep space Reception for the artist plus 14 other gallery – a boundless realm of ever changing form. member artists: October 11, 4-6pm.
Susan uses layered glazes of acrylic to create Free artists talk, “Art and Astrology” at the depth and a dance of light and color, sometimes gallery: October 22, 7pm. mixing media and collage. Capable of both
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