Jul | Aug 2013
SUBSCRIPTION BostonSpiritMagazine.com FREE! DELIVERED
Javier Pagan
The Boston Police Department LGBT Liaison details his experience as a first responder at the Marathon blasts
Summer Lovin’
Sizzling Entertainment in P’town, Ogunquit, and the Berkshires Camping Out All Over New England
Special Career Section Reinventing You Living An Extraordinary Life
PLUS
The Radical P’town Ferry How Rhode Island Finally Got To the Altar Advocating for Our LGBT Elders Q&A with Megan Mullally
indsor
Edie W l Guest
Specia
FEATURING CELEBRITY AUCTIONEER KATE CLINTON
LEAD SPONSOR
summer party Pilgrim Monument & Provincetown Museum Saturday, July 27, 4:00–7:00pm
Buy Tickets $75 ($85 at the Door) • www.glad.org/events AUCTION SPONSOR
MEDIA SPONSORS
Drinks On Us!
COCKTAILS COURTESY OF
GAY & LESBIAN ADVOCATES & DEFENDERS
New England’s leading legal rights organization dedicated to ending discrimination based on sexual orientation, HIV status and gender identity and expression. Legal InfoLine 800/455-GLAD • Tel. 617/426-1350 • www.glad.org
® ® ® ABSOLUT ABSOLUT ABSOLUT VODKA. VODKA. VODKA. PRODUCT PRODUCT PRODUCT OF OF SWEDEN. SWEDEN. OF SWEDEN. 40%40% ALC./ ALC./ 40% VOL. ALC./ VOL. DISTILLED VOL. DISTILLED DISTILLED FROM FROM GRAIN. FROM GRAIN. ©2012 GRAIN. ©2012 IMPORTED ©2012 IMPORTED IMPORTED BY BY ABSOLUT ABSOLUT BY ABSOLUT SPIRITS SPIRITS CO., SPIRITS CO., NEW CO., NEW YORK, NEW YORK, NY. YORK, NY. NY.
ABSOLUT OUTRAGEOUS ABSOLUT OUTRAGEOUS Cocktails Perfected ABSOLUT OUTRAGEOUS Cocktails Perfected Cocktails Perfected
CELEBRATING OVER 30 YEARS OF GOING OUT AND COMING OUT CELEBRATING OVER 30 YEARS OF GOING OUT AND COMING OUT CELEBRATING OVER 30 YEARS OF GOING OUT AND COMING OUT
ENJOY WITH ABSOLUT RESPONSIBILITY®®. ENJOY ENJOY WITH WITH ABSOLUT ABSOLUT RESPONSIBILITY RESPONSIBILITY®..
From The Publisher When you work in the world of LGBT media July is always an especially welcome month. This definitely holds true at Boston Spirit. June means Pride festivals in Boston, Providence, Salem, etc., as well as our annual Summer Sunset Cruise and more. In other words, we’re exhausted! Thankfully, now we get to relax a bit and enjoy summer in New England. Even better, our Editor James Lopata and our editorial staff has given us a great ‘to-do’ list for the next few months, with shows to see and places to go. Thanks to the staff for the research and great ideas. Certainly GLAD’s Summer Party and MassEquality’s Taste of Provincetown are a couple of seasonal highlights if you find yourself on the Outer Cape. A special Thank You also goes out to one of our favorite people and a real Boston hero (although he would disagree!) Boston Police Officer Javier Pagan. Javier was front and center, just a few feet away, when the bombs went off at the Boston Marathon. As the longstanding LGBT Liaison for the Boston Police Department we have always been proud of Javier. That pride has now been taken to a new level. Javier sat down with our Scott Kearnan for an amazing interview in which he details his memories from that awful day in April. It’s a fascinating read. Finally, since I seem to be thanking a lot of people in this letter, a big Thank You to ALL of the people that work tirelessly on the Pride festivals throughout New England. These folks work year round on the various parades and festivals that we all enjoy so much. We owe all of these dedicated volunteers a great deal and I, for one, think they deserve a tremendous amount of credit. As you enjoy your summer, be it in Boston, P’town, Ogunquit, or anywhere else, remember to be safe and (somewhat) responsible! Oh yeah, and don’t forget your sunscreen!
David Zimmerman Publisher
2 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Boston Spirit Magazine supporters 5 Star Travel Services Accent Limousine Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Audio Concept Bavarian Chocolate Haus Bo Concept Boston Center for Adult Education Boston Harbor Cruises Boston Pride Boston Symphony Orchestra Boston University Burns & Levinson, LLP Carpe Diem Circle Furniture Designer Bath Destination Salem DJ Mocha Dover Rug Eastern Bank Elizabeth Grady Fenway Health GLAD Greater Boston CVB Harbor Hotel Provincetown Harvard University Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates Jasper White's Summer Shack Konditor Meister Lombardo's Long's Jewelers Lucia Lighting Marriott Copley Place Martha's Vineyard Chamber MassEquality Melrose Medspa Mintz Levin Morgan Stanley Smith Barney New York City Jersey City Partners Healthcare Peabody Essex Musem Pernod Ricard (Absolut) Portside Family Dental Provincetown Cares Roydal Sonesta Sandcastle on the Beach Sculler's Jazz Club Seashore Point Seasons Four Steamship Authority Tresca UBS Financial Services, Inc. Urban Art Bar, The US Trust Wellspring Weight Loss Westin Waterfront
29 20 94 31 67 41 21 63 49 43 46 The Guide 55 24 33 The Guide 11 7 17 40 Cover Cover 79 44 37 Cover 14 36 3,5 22 69 61 50 77 45 The Guide The Guide 13 25 1 9 15 76 51 91 48 39 35 23 The Guide 91 32 The Guide 81
© d. yurman 2013
Men’s Collection
As We Go To Press … Most miles of a marathon are long and monotonous, winding through sparsely populated areas with not many spectators. But marathons can change in a split second—and not for good—as we all witnessed this past April. Sometimes marathons change slowly and over time—and for the better—with noted high points periodically all along the way. Such is the marathon for marriage equality. Now with twelve states and the District of Columbia allowing it, what is known in popular parlance as “gay marriage” is gaining momentum. Beginning August 1, all six New England states will be able to boast marriage equality. Thanks to a dedicated team who were in it for the long-haul, the little state of Rhode Island—which has seemed so reluctant to get to the altar—ultimately got there. In this issue, we look at the frustrating, weird, and ultimately wonderful pathway that the Ocean State navigated to finally say “I do!” when asked if it would allow its same-sex couples the right to marry. Speaking of dedicated teams working a marathon, need we mention the countless public servants who were on hand to help out on that fateful day on April 15? Our cover boy Javier Pagan, LGBT Liaison to the Boston Police Department, made national news when the image of him and other first responders jumping into action made the cover of Sports Illustrated. In our interview with Javier in this issue, in which he details the frightening moments he experienced at ground zero for the blasts, he humbly notes that he is just one among many who simply fulfill their duties every day in dangerous situations all over. He
4 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Contribute your opinion: editor@bostonspiritmagazine.com
happened to be in the right place for the photo op. There are many others, including our LGBT friends and family who have protected us in Iraq, Afghanistan, and all over the United States and the world, long before Don’t Ask Don’t Tell became moot. These public servants often endure long periods—sometimes whole careers—of monotony, only to be called on in the flash of an instant to put their lives at risk to save ours. They are models of courage, grace and adaptability in
Meanwhile, at the Westermost terminus of Route 6 in Bishop, California ... photo Justin Kim the face of the long journey of life. LGBT people, as noted several years ago by researcher Richard Florida, are among the most adaptable among us. In his famous book The Rise of the Creative Class he made a big buzz with the argument that LGBT residents significantly improve the economic outlook of areas that embrace them and the creativity they frequently embody. In our special Careers Section, we interview a couple of career thought-leaders from our local LGBT community who share some of their secrets for creating new possibilities in today’s ever changing job’s markets. Dorie Clark tells us how to “reinvent” yourself and Stever Robbins explains how to live “an Extraordinary Life.”
Sometimes the longest marathon feels shorter than the distance between a cold, snowy February and the heat of a summer beach. Need we mention the snowbound blizzards of this past year? Relax. No more snow days!—for several months, at least. It’s summer! It’s here! It’s comin’, by gum. We can feel it come. You can feel it in your heart. You can see it in the ground. You can see it in the trees. You can smell it in the breeze. Look around! Look around! Look around! July is busting’ out all over. (Apologies to Rogers & Hammerstein) Summer is hear. Relax a little. The turtle and the hare story is overrated. More studies show that regular relaxation keeps the momentum going and refreshes our adaptability and capabilities in the long run. We’re gonna need it. Thirty-eight states still lack marriage equality. Add to that DOMA battles (depending on the Supreme Court rulings), transgender rights’ issues, and the global crises on LGBT rights (Russia recently curtailed speech that “promotes” homosexuality gay), and we are going to need all the energy, creativity and adaptability we can get. In the meantime, catch one of the 25 shows we highlight in our summer entertainment section, or take a hike at one of the numerous LGBTfriendly camps we feature. Lounge around. Why else have we fought for our rights? This fall, we can turn again with extra vigor to the battles we have yet to win. In the meantime, slather on the sunscreen and enjoy the fruits of our labors to date.
James A. Lopata Editor in Chief
WEDDING BAND EVENT AUGUST THU
1
FRI
2
SAT
3
Wall to Wall Wedding Bands!
& more!
Enter to WIN Fabulous Prizes! $1,500 towards your honeymoon*
$1,000 shopping spree*
5-course food and wine pairing dinner for 6*
Tuxedo rentals for 5 members of your bridal party*
$1,000 towards wedding bands**
$500 gift certificate* Plus, enjoy cake tastings.
Set of two watches, valued at over $3,000*
Long’s in Burlington Middlesex Turnpike Exit 32B off 128, across from the Mall Questions? 781.262.5899 www.longsjewelers.com *Winners for all listed prizes will be selected at random and the odds of winning are determined by the number of entries received. Winners will be chosen on or before September 5, 2013. No purchase necessary. **One couple will win a $1,000 credit toward wedding bands purchased at the Burlington, MA store between August 1 – 3, 2013, valid on purchases of $1,000 or more. See stores, entry forms or www.longsjewelers.com for details.
2013 Career Section
Contents
Importance of 42 The Personal Reinvention Importance of 48 The Personal Reinvention
Jul|Aug 2013 | volume 9 | Issue 4
10 Hit List
18
Ricardo Recommends: Summer Entertaining
Spotlight Hit List Flower Power Reading Rainbow Studio Living Ricardo Recommends Summer Lovin’ Word Is Out Go Figure
25 Hot Tickets 10 12 14 16 18 18 22 24
Feature
58 Summer Entertainment
O n the C o v er Javier Pagan 27
66
Everything Old is New Again
68
Dreaming of Summer
71
All in the Family
76 78
Out designer John LaRoche brings bursting creativity to Boston
Pippin and The Nance ignite the Great White Way South End Resident Creates an Eclectic Provincetown Retreat
Author and gay activist Amy Hoffman’s new book explores her own history
Gotta Dance
Aging Back Into the Closet
30
Scene
How Rhode Island— Finally!—Got Marriage Equality
34
The Radical Ferry (to P’town)
38
The little state that should have been a slam-dunk dragged its heels on the way to the altar, but ultimately got there
40 years ago, new boat service initiated a freedom ride to sexual and personal liberation during a time less welcoming to LGBTs
Seasonal The Importance of Personal Reinvention 42 How to navigate shifting employment markets in a fun, fulfilling way, from local out strategic communications consultant Dorie Clark
Living an Extraordinary Life What are the risks of having a boring, uninteresting life at a job you hate? asks local out Executive Coach Stever Robbins
Camping It Up
Ten queer sites for enjoying the great outdoors this summer
6 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Full Bloom
27
Discrimination rears its head as elder LGBTs seek assistance; Maine and Massachusetts activists call for action
48
52
58
Culture
‘I Don’t Think I Had Time To Be Scared’ Boston Police Department LGBT Liaison Javier Pagan details his experience as a first responder at the Boston Marathon blasts
Hot Tickets
For sizzling summer fun in P’town, Ogunquit, and the Berkshires
Weekend Out at Jacob’s Pillow offers a synergy of history and performance
Step Up! 82 28th AIDS Walk Boston & 5k Run 84 Senior Pride 86 GOAL New England 2013 Boston Pride 87 AIDS Walk New Haven 87 Dinnerfest 88 Freedom to Marry Ice Cream Social 88
Calendar General Calendar Provincetown Calendar
89 90
Coda Megan Mullally
The queer-fave actress comes to P’town and Boston in August
96
Fairness & Equality.
In banking and in life.
Member FDIC
At Eastern Bank, our mission is to move you and your life forward. That’s why we do more than just invest in new technologies and better services. We also invest in forwarding social causes. We’re proud to support LGBT initiatives throughout the communities we serve. Which is another reason why here, you’re first.
hereyourefirst.com
Your Dental
Home
WHere Patients are our Dental FamilY.
Jul|Aug 2013 | volume 9 | Issue 4 Publisher
David Zimmerman Editor in Chief
James A. Lopata Art Director
TALK TO US Send comments, questions and encomia to feedback@bostonspiritmagazine.com Editorial Contact
Dean Burchell
editor@bostonspiritmagazine.com
Director of Advertising
Publishing/Sales Contact
Jenn Dettmann jenn@bostonspiritmagazine.com
Account Executives
Chris George, Michael Poulin Contributing Lifestyle Editor
Scott Kearnan
Contributing Arts Editor
Loren King
Contributing Writers
Tony Giampetruzzi, Scott Kearnan, Mark Krone, Ricardo Rodriguez EDITORIAL INTERN Frank Olito Contributing Photographers
Joel Benjamin, Dave Dietz, Gina Manning, Natasha Moustache. Tony Scarpetta cover image Joel Benjamin On the web
BostonSpiritMagazine.com
our Friendly anD experienced staFF Can’t Wait to meet You.
publisher@bostonspiritmagazine.com 781-223-8538 Boston Spirit magazine. A Division of Jake Publishing, LLC Published by Jake Publishing, LLC. Copyright 2004 by Jake Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without the written permission of Boston Spirit magazine. Neither the publishers nor the advertisers will be held responsible for any errors found in the magazine. The publishers accept no liability for the accuracy of statements made by advertisers. Publication of the name or photograph of any person, organization or business in this magazine does not reflect upon one’s sexual orientation in any way.
sPeCializing in tHe saFest anD best new technolgies
state-oF-tHe-art, solar PoWereD Dental oFFiCe CHeCk us out on dr. sam merabi Portside Family dental 7 Brown square newburyport, ma 01950 portsidefamilydental@gmail.com tel: 978-462-4590 fax: 978-465-3065 PortsideFamilyDental.com
Portsidefamilydental
spotlight Trends story Scott Kearnan
Hit List
News, notes, and to-dos for every gay agenda
OPEN WIDE for The
Taste of Provincetown on July 20 at the Town Hall. You’ll find food and wine from 20 restaurants, like Bayside Betsy’s and Waterford Inn, plus a ‘Quickfire Challenge’ cook-off judged by out Top Chef alum Tiffani Faison and last year’s winner, Sage Inn’s Lucio Garnica. Open your wallet, too: it’s a fundraiser for MassEquality. (Tickets: massequality.org)
donation to the nonprofit: camplightbulb.org. (Adults, we have your outdoorsy gay getaways covered too. See page 52.)
BRIGHTEN THE SUMMER
BUY SOME ARM CANDY at
for an LGBT youth in your life. Provincetown’s Camp Lightbulb runs weeklong overnights from July 28 through August 24, all providing a uniquely supportive summer camp environment: think whale watches, bonfires, gallery trips, even LGBT history sessions. Know no queer kids’ Sponsor a needy camper with a
designer Danquell Bradford
Camp Lightbulb July 28August 24
WhatsYourPrice.com, where you can bid on first dates with eligible singles. Apparently pool boy jobs don’t pay what they used to, because the site experienced a 26-percent surge in gay college memberships once the school year ended. Two Massachusetts cities rank in the site’s Top 10 Newlyweds Michael Oliveri and Adam Beddie photo Samantha Robshaw
list of most gay dates: Boston, where the average accepted date offer is $119.44, and Rockport, where it’s $303.14.
SEND A CONGRATS CARD
to newlyweds and boys-abouttown Adam Beddie, manager of upscale boutique Gretta Luxe, and Michael Oliveri, an associate at PricewaterhouseCoopers and organizer behind Pride in Our Workplace, a series of LGBT professional networking events. The couple married in June in Provincetown, where the ceremony included a Cape-inspired color scheme (green and purple) and a very special ring bearer: their beloved pooch, Bradley.
PAGE THROUGH the memoir Lies About My Family, the latest by Boston author Amy Hoffman, editor in chief of Women’s Review of Books. In the touching and funny Lies, Hoffman digs through Ellis Island archives to learn more about her immigrant grandparents. She shares how her discoveries intersect with her lesbian identity, and help heal her once-distant relationships with her parents and her Jewish community.
TAKE A DRIVE
by the sleek showroom of modern furniture brand BoConcept in Cambridge, run by out partners
10 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Anthony Goodh and Luis Rojas. BoConcept just announced a clever collaboration with auto company Smart: it is designing unique, modern car interiors for the company, plus some auto-inspired furnishings (like odometer-esque clocks) for customers looking to rev up their home décor.
SIZE UP the shirts from Dani
and Dan’quell (dddesignonline. com), the Boston-based brand from lesbian designer Danquell Bradford. The line held its launch party last month, rolling out casual apparel celebrating unity among races and sexual orientations. Its philanthropic collection, United Senergy, donates a portion of proceeds to community nonprofits.
KEEP AN EYE on Smith Col-
lege, which recently announced that a committee would be formed to review its admissions policies for transgender applicants. In May a student group delivered a 4,000-signature petition after Calliope Wong, a transgender woman, was rejected. Smith currently accepts transgender students if they legally identify as female at the time of application, but Wong was identified as male on her financial aid forms. [x]
Living Well Most of living is about the basics. Paying the bills. Making ends meet. Keeping the plates spinning. And then there’s a part of life… it’s living life well. It’s steak instead of baloney. Art instead of artificial. Something special… like a hand-knotted, handmade rug from Dover Rug & Home — where you’ll find the largest selection of rugs in New England — from every corner of the world, in every price range with a life-time guarantee. Dover Rug & Home. Dedicated to helping you “live life well.”
Proud members of
721 Worcester Road (Route9) Natick, MA 508.651.3500 | www.doverrug.com
bESt RugS
spotlight Design story Scott Kearnan
Flower Power
MFA exhibit blooms with gay designers If you still have a pair of favorite bell-bottoms tucked away in the “sentimental memories” department of your wardrobe, you may have joked once or twice that such bygone fashions would end up in a museum someday. Well, “someday” has arrived at the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, which is gearing up for the new exhibit Hippie Chic. Running July 16 through November 11, the exhibit curates about 50 ensembles from the late 1960s and early 1970s, when pop art, psychedelia, and the Summer of Loveera counterculture converged to impact fashion: in the streets, and on the runways. And several important designers with connections to the gay community are featured in the show. If you’re a fashion expert, you’ll know of their influence; if you’re not, well, try these names on for size.
ARNOLD SCAASI
The acclaimed gay designer was famous for creating custom clothing for icons like Elizabeth Taylor, Joan Crawford, Mitzi Gaynor and Mary Tyler Moore. Hippie Chic highlights a flowing evening dress from 1969 that was worn by Barbra Streisand; it’s among the hundred-plus Scaasi designs that the MFA acquired in 2009, alongside an extensive archive that included sketchbooks spanning several decades. Scaasi, 83, is one of the few gay designers represented who is still alive – and still going strong. In 2011, after the advent of equal marriage in New York, he married his partner of 50 years.
OSSIE CLARK
Represented in Hippie Chic by a groovy patterned dress from 1970, Clark was a British fashion designer who pioneered the billowy bohemian style of London’s “Swinging Sixties” scene. Clark succumbed to its decadent lifestyle, developing a drug addiction that cost him his business (he went bankrupt in the ‘80s and worked only sporadically after) and his life. In 1996, Clark was stabbed to death by his 29-year old boyfriend during a drug-induced psychotic episode. A tragic end, but his influential work lives on.
GIORGIO DI SANT’ANGELO Hippie Chic
boasts a 1970s dress by Sant’ Angelo that captures the way folk textiles and ethnic clothing influenced his designs. The Italian-born Sant’ Angelo learned from disparate legends, studying art under Picasso and briefly apprenticing for Walt Disney. He pioneered the use of stretch fabrics, one of many accomplishments that influenced younger designers like pal Calvin Klein – with whom Sant’ Angelo once shared a house in the Fire Island Pines.
TOMMY NUTTER In the 1960s the British designer reinvented Savile Row, London’s bespoke tailoring district, by a colorful and flamboyant approach that captured the “male peacock” movement: think the dandy suits of celebrity clients like Mick Jagger and Elton John. (He also designed Jack Nicholson’s purple threads for his role as The Joker in 1989’s Batman.) His irreverent twists on tradition made him a legend, though he died in 1992 from AIDS complications at the age of 49.
HALSTON He got his start as a milliner,
creating Jackie Kennedy’s famous pink pillbox hat. But by the 70s Halston (born Roy Halston Frowick) had become something far less demure: one of America’s first celebrity designers, he defined the jet setting styles of disco nightlife. (And signed a then-controversial licensing deal with JC Penney, paving the way for the H&M collaborations of the future.) The so-dubbed “velvet mafia” member was known for his own wild nights at Studio 54. He died of AIDS-related illness in 1990, but his life is explored in the 2010 documentary Ultrasuede: In Search of Halston. [x]
Woman’s ensemble in (3) parts. Roy Halston Frowick, known as Halston (American, 1932–1990) about 1970. Museum purchase with funds donated anonymously. photo Courtesy Museum of Fine Arts, Boston [inset] Tommy Nutter. Courtesy David Nutter. photo Courtesy Museum of Fine Arts, Boston 12 | BOSTON SPIRIT
f rom g e t t i n g a ru n n i n g i nj u ry to j ust g e t t i n g ol de r , w e’ re he re w hen you n eed us .
find your strength. ÂŽ
Spaulding Rehabilitation Network, combined with Partners HealthCare at Home, provides a preeminent system of rehabilitation and home care services to help people recover following illness or injury. From inpatient care after stroke to outpatient care for sports injury to at-home care and support for aging parents or loved ones, our teams are dedicated to providing culturally sensitive care that offers the physical, emotional and spiritual strength to feel better or recover. For more information, visit us at spauldingrehab.org or partnersathome.org
spotlight Literature story Scott Kearnan
Reading Rainbow Beautiful Wedding Cakes
speCial OCCasiOn and HOliday Cakes
& fine eurOpean pastries
Colorful new book celebrates the art of drag In drag-speak, “reading” refers to a witty verbal takedown. But dr.a.g. is one book we can’t stop picking up. This colorful coffee table companion is filled with lush photos of over 300 drag queens from around the world including Boston-based Jujubee and NYC starlet Coco Peru, who brings her show She’s Got the Balls to Provincetown’s Crown & Anchor this August. From up-and-coming artsy punks to seasoned cabaret icons, the book’s subjects reflect the diverse range of styles and cultural backgrounds that the drag community contains—and
the unique, inspiring forms selfexpression it celebrates. The book is the brainchild of indie actor and filmmaker Christopher Logan, who will use sales to fund a drag musical. But its publisher went bankrupt after the first run of copies—so this summer, Logan is using an Indiegogo fundraising campaign to support a re-release of dr.a.g. through his own imprint. (For more details, visit bookthefilm.com) We asked him to show us just a few of the gorgeously unique, globe-spanning gals in its pages.
Lady Bunny New York City, NY
Photographed by Peter Palladino Like her longtime friend RuPaul, this bawdy, bouffant-topped nightlife DJ, promoter, and Wigstock founder hails from a stable of legendary personalities that helped drag hop over from gay bars to the wider world of pop culture. She currently hosts Bunny & Bianca’s Hot Mess every week at XL nightclub.
Dixie Longate Mobile, AL
Photographed by Bradford Rogne If Donna Reed and Peg Bundy were combined into a single casserole, it might turn out like green eye shadow-sporting southern gal Dixie Longate. The campy home cook has taken her one-woman show, Dixie’s Tupperware Party, from the trailer park to a national theater tour.
Joan Jullian Belgium
Photographed by Foto Rudesign The self-dubbed “Black Diva of Belgium” is a sassy, lash-batting minx who has scooped up international pageant titles. But you’ll typically find her holding court with Les Femmes Uniques, her decadent drag quartet. She means (show) business.
781.849.1970 www.konditormeister.com 14 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Jujubee Boston, MA
Photographed by Jose A Guzman Colon She became a breakout TV star as a “professor” of fierceness on RuPaul’s Drag U, and as a contestant who reached the rounds of both Drag Race and All Stars Drag Race. The latter also gave viewers a tender look at the sweet glamour-puss’s personal life: Jujubee and longtime boyfriend Christopher were engaged in an episode.
BeBe Zahara Benet Cameroon
Photographed by Terry Hastings She hails from an African nation with a vehemently antigay culture, but Benet made history as the winner of the first season of RuPaul’s Drag Race. The now NYC-based model and singer rocks an edgy, couture style when performing her tribal club hits like “Dirty Drums.”
Hedda Lettuce New York City, NY
Photographed by Manuel Rodriguez Lettuce is a fixture on the cabaret circuit, using her infamously dirty mouth to deliver gut-busting stand-up and satirical songs. But the “Queen of Green” is also a gifted artist who recently exhibited “The Women,” her own show of divafilled paintings in every color of the rainbow. [x]
Jul|Aug 2013 | 15
spotlight Accommodations story Scott Kearnan
1 2
3
Studio Living
4
Chandler Studios is a swank new place to stay The Chandler Inn, home to Boston’s beloved neighborhood gay bar Fritz, has been a South End institution for years. But the team behind those businesses has just opened a new venture: Chandler Studios, a high-end boutique hotel on Berkeley Street, just across from Fritz. But while we love that bar’s rustic, old school charm, the upscale accommodations at Chandler Studios seem a world apart. Inside are 12 studio units, including one massive suite, with posh décor, heavenly beds, and oversized bathrooms. And if privacy is paramount (for a clandestine rendezvous, perhaps?) the hotel offers a keyless entry system: a passcode is provided at the time of booking, so guests can interact with Studios’ 24/7 staff as much or as little as they like. That makes Chandler a perfect fit for extended visits— but even if you’re just looking for a quick overnight or a glamorous gay stay-cation, this is the stylish setting for it. We poked around the newly unveiled units to learn more. [x]
16 | BOSTON SPIRIT
[1]
[2]
[3]
[4]
Chandler Studios is the creation of Hacin + Associates, the South End firm founded by gay architect David Hacin. The design combines the best of “then” and “now”: the building’s historic shell, staircase and moldings were painstakingly restored, while new elements—like these French balconies—were added for modern flourish. Does this graphic wall treatment look familiar? Each room pays tribute to the neighborhood’s history with a large photograph reproduced from the archives of the South End Historic Society. This vintage image is of the former Orange Line elevated trains that once ran along nearby Washington Street. The sleek furniture and handsome color scheme of cream, slate, and red create an unmistakably modern vibe. But so do other amenities, like big plasma televisions, iPod docks in every room (perfect for a small party) and a programmable lighting system that “remembers” your preferences. (It sets the mood. Literally.) Chandler Studios’ concierge service is also available through Pingup, a smartphone app that lets you quickly text requests like restaurant reservations. These gleaming kitchenettes make Chandler Studios feel more like condo living than a temporary place to hang your hat. The hotel also has a small fitness center and private parking in a brick-lain courtyard. Ah, home sweet home—for now, anyway.
G R A D Y
Get skin that’s smooth to the touch just in time for summer. No other hair removal method is as gentle, effective or long lasting. The key ingredients are a formulation of azulene, pine resin and exfoliants - plus the expertise of renowned Elizabeth Grady estheticians. Call to schedule your first wax treatment it is a fast, easy and smooth move.
Call 1-800-FACIALS or visit www.elizabethgrady.com for nearest location, services, products and gift certificates. Jul|Aug 2013 | 17
spotlight Party story Ricardo Rodriguez photos Natasha Moustache
Ricardo Recommends Summer Lovin’ Ricardo Rodriguez
Is a celebrated and award-winning real estate and lifestyle expert based in Boston. He regularly appears in local and national TV shows, contributes to various publications in the areas of real estate, home, living and fashion, and is a tireless advocate and supporter of many and various charitable causes.
I am unabashedly a summer kind of guy. To me there is nothing better than a warm evening of delicious dining al fresco, a cold glass of champagne and the company of friends. Plus I love any excuse to dress as light and minimal as possible… So I recruited some friends to help me put together a night to remember. Set at the unbelievably perfect home of South End royalty Bobby Kelley and Eddie Luis, this evening was a dream come true. Included in the guest list, fashion designer Daniela Corte, the brainchild behind Bodega Jay Gordon, designing genius Alina Wolhardt, entrepreneur Mike Kelley and his brother, real estate enfant terrible, Brian.
18 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Celebrated star chef Chris Coombs treated us to a light “surf & turf” menu of fresh ingredients and simple familiar flavors. And über talented event designer John LaRoche of the sophisticated Blue Guava group treated us to the most brightly gorgeous seaside inspired atmosphere. So go ahead and plan that special evening to celebrate your friends and the gift of summer. And make sure to invite me!
[top-left] Celebrated star chef Chris Coombs builds
one of the evening’s courses, Plateau Fruits de Mer
[top-middle] Event designer John LaRoche
of Blue Guava prepares the arrangements of protea and hydrangeasMake something your
guest can take home. A place card is a good choice.
Get the party started… I asked John what makes for the best atmosphere and décor choices when it comes to planning an evening with friends. His response: simplicity. “A summer evening is all about very organic, natural, uncomplicated choices. From the guest list to the décor elements.”
Mix-&-Match Don’t be afraid to bring your indoor furniture outside for the night and use it with your existing outdoor furniture. Mixing styles makes for a striking effect.
The table scape starts with an organic Burlap runner, modern rectangular mirror floral vessels with lush Dutch Hydrangea, Vibrant orange PinCushion Protea and a touch of Clematis Pods for a sophisticated textural beach feel. Accents of natural Shore Barnacle add more texture and dimension to the table and each person is specially placed with a beautiful spotted conical shell holding each name tag. The use of mixed media creates a more interesting setting that is less expected or cliched. Aged wooden chairs are utilized with lucite Ghost chairs for additional interest. Make something your guest can take home. A place card is a good choice.
Jul|Aug 2013 | 19
[top] Plateau Fruits de Mer [center] Pan roasted Hanger Steak with Charred Onions, Wild
Mushrooms, Asparagus Tips and Sauce Bordelaise
[bottom] Start with the evening with sparkling wine
First, spend some time selecting the right kind of shell that can either lay flat or stand up as this one does and has a narrow opening and works with the color scheme. Then purchase from your local paper supply store stock paper that is slightly heavier than copy paper. If you have a printer at home or work, select a font that interests you and print each name out, otherwise just neatly handwrite each one. Cut each name in elongated strips and slide
20 | BOSTON SPIRIT
into the shell. If the name tag doesn’t stay on its own you can put a tiny spot of glue on the end and slide into the shell. As for food and drinks, Chris has some sound advice: “embrace summer, its freshness and buoyancy by preparing crisp familiar dishes with that seasonal twist.” Start the evening with sparkling wine, whether it is a cold glass of champagne or any of its cousins like proseco or cavas. It will make for a special night. [x]
Recipes from chef Chris Coombs Plateau Fruits de Mer Place over crushed ice an assortment of Island Creek Oysters, Marinated Mussles, Snappy Lobster, Razor Clams, and Shrimp; accompany with lemons, Cocktail Sauce, Mignonette
Pan roasted Hanger Steak with Charred Onions, Wild Mushrooms, Asparagus Tips and Sauce Bordelaise Feeds 4 People 4 8 oz. hanger steaks Marinade for hanger steak (see below)
2 oz. Kosher salt (by weight) 1 tsp black pepper (cracked) 6 sprigs of thyme 1 sprig of rosemary Juice of 1 lemon
cup olive oil cup Banyuls vinegar (or similar) 4 cloves garlic (sliced) Mix all ingredients and let marinate in a plastic Ziploc bag with air removed for between 4-24 hours Grill for 6 minutes on medium -high heat rotating constantly until nicely charred and medium rare inside, add 3 more minutes to cook medium, add 6 minutes more for medium well if desired. After cooking steak to temperature, let “rest” for 4 Minutes before slicing. Serve immediately. 1/2
1/4
Asparagus Seasoning 1/4 cup olive oil Juice of 1 lemon 2 tsp. Kosher salt 1 tbsp. rosemary, chopped fine 1/2 tsp. Piment d’ Espelette or similar pepper flake Mix all ingredients in a bowl and place aside.
Grilled Asparagus
1 bunch large asparagus Asparagus Seasoning Break off the bottom 2 inches of the asparagus and discard. Generously coat asparagus with the asparagus seasoning 5 minutes prior to cooking Horizontally place the large asparagus on the grill on medium-high heat rotating constantly until nicely charred, asparagus with a 1/2 inch diameter take 3-4 minutes to cook fully Charred Onions
2 Spanish onions Slice on diameter 1/2 inch thick and season generously with salt and pepper and olive oil Place on the grill cut side down for 20 minutes until thoroughly charred on one side and cooked through to the top of the bulb do not flip. Serve immediately Wild Mushrooms
2 lb. fresh cultivated mushrooms (split in half lengthwise)
2 shallots (Brunoise) 6 sprigs of thyme (leaves picked and
4 oz. Canola Oil chopped) 2 tbsp. Kosher Salt 4 oz. Madeira wine 1/2 tsp. Ground Black Pepper 2 oz. Sherry vinegar 4 cloves of garlic (Brunoise) Heat a large Teflon pan on top of your grill, add canola oil and wait for it to begin to lightly smoke, and then add clean mushrooms, salt, and pepper, sauté for 6-7 minutes until lightly crispy When the mushrooms begin to look crispy pour off the excess oil and add in the garlic, shallots and thyme, sauté for an additional minute, then add in the Madeira and sherry and cook until dry, serve immediately.
spotlight News compiled Alan Tran
Word Is Out The University of Connecticut awarded Gary Bailey, LGBT activist in Boston, a Doctor of Human Letters degree. The award, given in May, recognizes his excellence in social work.
In its June issue, Boston magazine recounts the harrowing tale of Cara Rintala who is accused of murdering her wife by strangulation, sought to be let out on bail. As she waits for her retrial, she wanted to be released on $250,000 bail. Her lawyer said her loved ones pooled their money, so she could be released. Rintala awaits to be retried after her trial ended in March when the jury did not reach a verdict.
On June 12, GLAD (Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders) argued a transgender girl’s case of discrimination before Maine’s highest court. “We have a strong case here of a young girl trying to go to school and learn, and the school failing to protect her,” said Jennifer Levi, director of GLAD’s Transgender Rights Project, following the courtroom hearing. “I feel confident that we got a fair hearing from the court, and I look forward to their decision.” The decision in the case, Doe v. Clenchy, is not expected for several months.
Lee Swislow announced she will retire from her job as executive director of GLAD (Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders) in April 2014. She has held the position since 2005. “I’ve had the best job I could ever want,” said Swislow. “I’ve been privileged to work with a terrific board and a brilliant staff at a time when legal rights for our community have taken such huge leaps forward. There’s still a lot of work to be done, and I’m confident that GLAD is the group to do it.
bright ideas begin at lucía
visit our 8,000 square-foot showroom today to see new england’s largest selection of lighting
lucía
311 western avenue (rt-107), lynn, ma
888-595-0026 / 781-595-0026 www.lucialighting.com
lighting & design store hours: mon-sat 9am-5pm wed 9am-8pm
22 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Lighting
Matthew V.P. McTygue goes from Boston Spirit cover model to office head! McTygue, who appeared on Boston Spirit’s March/April 2013 cover with local business professionals and is a partner at Edwards Wildman Palmer LLP in the Business Law Department, was promoted to partner-in-charge of the Boston office. Big congrats. [x]
photo Joel Benjamin
”The Boston Police Department released guidelines concerning contact with transgender individuals. On June 4, Boston Police Commissioner Edward F. Davis issued a Special Order that reads: “The policy of the Boston Police Department is to treat all individuals with dignity, respect, and professionalism. Officers shall at all times abide by Boston Police Department Rule 102 §9 (Respectful Treatment), as well as the City of Boston Office of Human Resources’ ‘Guidelines to Prevent Gender Identity Discrimination’ when interacting with transgender individuals.” Jesse Begenyi, Interim Director of the Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition (MTPC), welcomed the order, saying, “MTPC thanks Commissioner Davis, BPD LGBT liaison Javier Pagan, former MTPC executive director Gunner Scott, and everyone who worked to draft and implement this important policy,. … We hope police departments statewide will adopt similar policies.”
Jesse Begenyi, Interim Director of the Massachusetts Transgender Political Coalition (MTPC) photo Emil Cohen
Wine Spectator aWard of excellence (2006–2013)
AvA i l A b l e f o r W e d d i n g s , r e h e A r s A l d i n n e r s & P r i vA t e f u n c t i o n s
Ray Bourque’s Tresca is “The best athlete owned restaurant” in the east. USA Today 2013
“One of the most romantic tables in the country.” The balcony for two. Phantom Gourmet 233 Hanover Street in BoSton, 02113 treScanortHend.com 617-742-8240 Valet Parking Nightly & Validated Garage Parking Above the Haymarket T Station
Jul|Aug 2013 | 23
spotlight Numbers compiled Frankie Olito
Go Figure
73%
1 in 5 same-sex couples live in states where gay marriage is legal. That’s 22% of same-sex couples. [Source:
of Americans support equal job opportunities for LGBT employees. [Source: Issue Brief:
The Williams Institute]
33
of Americans believe the Boy Scouts should admit gay scouts younger than 18. [Source: ABC
The Need for an Executive Order]
research studies show that workplaces that support the LGBT community are directly associated with better working conditions. With greater job commitment, better relationships with fellow employees, and increased job satisfaction, LGBT-supportive workplaces create better working environments. [Source: The Williams Institute Study- “The Business Impact of LGBT-Supportive Workplace Policies”]
63%
News/Washington Post poll 2013]
$4.5M 7 in 10 amount of money Americans support Jason expected to be Collins decision to be out in added to Rhode the NBA. [Source: ABC News/ Island’s state econ- Washington Post poll 2013] omy within the first year of legalizing marriage for same-sex couples. [Source:The Wilof Americans support marliams Institute study] riage equality. [Source: ABC
55%
News/Washington Post poll 2013]
Help name our new mascot! We have a soft spot for our four-legged friends. In our showroom, we offer them fresh water and treats when they stop by with their humans. We have even included one in our new television commercial. We think our new mascot deserves a name. What would you choose? Visit designerbath.com/pup and cast your vote!
bra ele tin
g
C
97 River St. Beverly • 877.559.2284 Offer at designerbath.com/spirit
3
years Ge
n e r ati o
ns
ST B E of
at the Peabody Essex Museum June 22–September 29, 2013
How do you like your eggs?
Imperial Peter the Great Easter Egg, 1903, and Scarab Brooch. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond. Bequest of Lillian Thomas Pratt. Photos by Katherine Wetzel. © Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Fabergé Revealed: From the Collection of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts has been organized with the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Detroit Institute of Arts. Support provided by the East India Marine Associates of the Peabody Essex Museum. Additional support provided by Eaton Vance Investment Counsel. Media Partners: The Boston Globe and WGBH
feature News story Scott Kearnan photos Joel Benjamin
‘I Don’t Think I Had Time To Be Scared’ Boston Police Department LGBT Liaison Javier Pagan details his experience as a first responder at the Boston Marathon blasts Javier Pagan was just feet from the finish line when he heard the boom. But when you’re a first responder in a time of crisis, it’s not the terror of the first explosion that tests your courage. It’s the knowledge of the second. “You hear a lot, ‘Where there is one bomb, there are probably two,’” explains Pagan. “The second one is always there to kill the first responders. Because regardless of what is happening, they’re going to go rushing in.” And when he heard that first boom, that’s exactly what Pagan did: he rushed in. Most of us watched the horror unfold, hand over mouth in shock and sadness, from behind the shield of a TV screen. But he was there. He heard the boom. And he rushed toward it. Was he scared? “Was I scared?” answers Pagan. “I don’t think I had time to be scared.” For Boston Police officer Javier Pagan, April 15, 2013 started like any other Marathon Monday. But when two pressure cooker bombs planted by brothers Dzhokhar and Tamerlan Tsarnaev exploded near the finish line at 2:49 p.m., killing three spectators and injuring 264, the day was changed for everyone. The rest of the week went by in a blur: grief, anger, surveillance photos, news cameras, a memorial service, a manhunt. By the time it was over, another victim had been tragically laid to rest. Boston, though, proved resilient - and its people stronger and more united than ever.
Things were different for Pagan, too. A photo by Boston Globe photographer John Tlumacki, taken within seconds of the first explosion, had become perhaps the most iconic single image associated with the Marathon bombings. It shows Pagan and two fellow officers springing into action, a runner jolted by the blast fallen at their feet. It was splashed across newspa-
“ Once you realize something is happening, you just go into action.” Boston Police Department LGBT Liaison
Javier Pagan
pers, magazines and social media. And it famously made the cover of Sports Illustrated, making Pagan possibly the first out gay man to claim that distinction. Oh yeah, he’s gay. In fact, for the past 12 years Pagan has served as the Boston Police Department’s liaison to the LGBT community. His association with the nowiconic photograph has resulted in lots of
attention: the community has bandied with pride the words “gay hero.” But on Marathon Monday, says Pagan, he was just doing his job. And a month after the bombings, the memories are still vivid. “You can still see the image of people laying there, hearing people scream,” he recalls, while sitting on a Boylston Street patio just a few blocks from the site. His police car looms over his shoulder, parked at-the-ready by the curb. “My post was right where the first explosion happened,” explains Pagan. It seemed like an ordinary Marathon, he says, no different than the past 17 or so he had worked; his job was to face the crowds and keep the barricade secure, lest some overzealous spectator jump the gate and interfere. Once the winners were crowned, he stayed nearby but stepped aside - to keep his face out of the photos of every reunited family. Like the rest of the crowd, he was applauding the runners. Then, boom. At first he thought maybe a manhole had exploded, or even perhaps that a massive speaker had blown. But as he sprang into action, running to the source of the sound, it became clear it was something much, much worse. “The shock hits you,” he remembers. “You see bodies, you see body parts: things that should not be, like legs flipped the wrong way.” No time to second-guess. “Once you realize something is happening, you just go into action,” says Pagan. By the time the second explosion occurred about 13 seconds later, the radios were “going crazy,” says Pagan. He says the scene around him was one of “controlled chaos,” with officers and civilians alike tearing down barricades to help the panicked throngs
Jul|Aug 2013 | 27
get away from the blast, and rushing in to administer aid. There was no hesitation, he says, no time to consider if there could be more explosions. “Your adrenaline, everything you’ve been taught, and your life experience as an officer just kicks in,” says Pagan. “You react. It’s like something takes over. You think: this is danger. And then you just go.” While Pagan’s bravery might be instinctual, the result of a first responder’s ingrained training, he says he was struck by the reactions of bystanders. Marathon volunteers who thought they’d be passing out water to parched runners, and spectators who thought they’d be cheering on friends and family, were now offering themselves up to help strangers: without hesitation, Pagan observed, and even as the situation remained unclear and the threat of even more devastation loomed. “Police officers, firefighters, EMS… it’s our job to run into these things,” says Pagan. “But for everyday people who don’t train for it, for them to go in and do that is amazing.” “They were incredible,” says Pagan. “It really showed the best of people, even in such a dark time.” The entire incident sped by in a flash of that “controlled chaos” Pagan described. Medical units had victims away from the scene in less than 12 minutes, he said, and then the bomb squad moved in to secure the scene. Tensions were high, especially with so many now-abandoned bags in the area. “They always say, if you can see the bomb then the bomb can see you,” says Pagan. Still, sometime in that blur of events, Tlumacki had managed to snap the now famous photo of Pagan and his fellow officers. Naturally, Pagan didn’t notice the photo being taken—but it was impossible to miss the resulting image. By the time he saw it a few days later, it had gone viral through print and social media. And lots of people wanted to talk to Pagan: from city newspapers around the country to national political commentators like Rachel Maddow. “Somehow Anderson Cooper’s people found my sister’s home phone number,” says Pagan. Complete strangers were reaching out with Facebook friend requests. At first, it was almost a little jarring. “You’re like, come on, people. Something just happened,” says Pagan. He limited his conversations with the
28 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Javier Pagan photo Joel Benjamin media, giving a few interviews and flying to Miami for an appearance on Telemundo with Carlos Arredondo, the “cowboy hat hero.” Receiving particular attention was Pagan’s status as an out officer—which was somewhat ironic, considering his sexuality had never really been the focus of much attention on the force or in his life. His coming out was pretty smooth: “You’re nervous any time you come out, because you don’t want rejection,” says Pagan, who was born in Puerto Rico but has lived in Boston since he was three. “But I never had any horror stories.” His family and friends were supportive: “My sisters were like, ‘we kind of just wanted you to say it!’” And things were no different in the BPD. After Suffolk University
he entered the police academy, where he shared classes with both an openly gay and lesbian officer. When Pagan came out after his first year on the street, the reaction was—well, not much of a reaction. “It was, ‘oh, okay—who cares?’” says Pagan. “At one point I worked with a lot of Latino officers, and I thought maybe the whole machismo thing might be a factor. But they were the most supportive. We were working in the South End; you see gays everywhere! It’s not like I was working with cavemen and cavewomen.” Though his experiences being out on the force have been positive, Pagan understands that it’s still helpful for the wider community to have a personalized connection with the BPD. So 12 years ago he added the role of LGBT Liaison to his
work as a Community Service Officer. There are still some folks who may not feel comfortable blindly reaching out to the police about certain issues, like to report same-sex partner violence, says Pagan. Plus his liaison role offers a unique opportunity to reach out to the community and investigate murder, assault or other cases related to LGBT victims. He even lends his expertise in more unexpected ways: like helping the Boston Pride committee organize its security details for the annual events, and navigate the bureaucratic process of pulling necessary permits and licenses. And on May 17, 2004, the day that the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled in favor of marriage equality, it was Pagan who escorted lead counsel Mary Bonauto to City Hall Plaza. “It’s nice to be able to say I was there for that good part of history, too,” says Pagan. Given his involvement in the community, it’s no surprise that Pagan’s national notoriety was a source of pride to LGBT friends and colleagues. “I was a local boy, and people were proud to say, ‘this is our friend. This is our gay liaison,’” says Pagan. He’s grateful for the
“ That picture is of three people, but there were so many more that to me are heroes. We had officers there taking off their gun belts and tying it around people. ” Javier Pagan appreciation, but quick to remind that the photo is, quite literally, a snapshot of just a few people who demonstrated courage that day. “When it comes to getting called the word ‘hero,’ I’ve learned to say ‘thank you’ and walk away,” he explains. “That picture is of three people, but there were so many more that to me are heroes. We had officers there taking off their gun belts and tying it around people.”
Still, the impact that comes with being a highly visible gay cop—particularly one who served in a time of national tragedy— is not lost on Pagan. “It gives the radicals these images that show gay people are not sinners, or all these horrible things that they come up with,” says Pagan. “And I hope it gives hope to young kids who don’t have the luxury of growing up with families that are accepting. If they can turn on the TV and say, ‘Look, there’s a gay police officer!’ or a gay basketball player or entertainer, that’s a good thing.” Pagan says the response to his status as an out officer has been overwhelmingly positive. Still, there’s bound to be some inevitable backlash. “You have some people saying, ‘who cares that he’s gay? What difference does it make?’” says Pagan. And then there was a YouTube video that his friend found online: some user had created a slideshow of images of Pagan set to the tune of the Village People’s “YMCA.” At the end, up popped an image of a wholly separate Javier Pagan, a sex offender in Florida with a completely different middle name. “It said something like, ‘the Boston
[continues 80]
CHANCES ARE … WE’VE BEEN THERE Our Experienced Staff has been to just about every corner of the world. Remember: Without a Travel Agent, you are on your own.
495 Columbus Avenue, Boston, MA 02118 800-FLY-1999 | 617-536-1999 | 5Star-Travel.com
Jul|Aug 2013 | 29
feature Aging story Tony Giampetruzzi
Aging Back Into the Closet Discrimination rears its head as elder LGBTs seek assistance; Maine and Massachusetts activists call for action More than a year ago, John Hennessey received a phone call from a 57-year-old disabled man in northern Maine whose care giver had recently discovered he was gay and was subsequently threatening to out him to his small rural community. Hennessey, Advocacy Director at AARP Maine, is neither a service provider, nor a social worker, but as a gay man, he says, a red flag was raised. “He told me he hadn’t been out of his house for three weeks because he was afraid that his care giver had already
told people he was gay. The anxiety and fear in his voice was coming through loud and clear,” says Hennessey. “The more I talked to him, the more it dawned on me that there must be more people struggling with this same scenario in Maine.” For Hennessey, that phone call was the catalyst for a report in collaboration with SAGE — Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders released in March: “Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) Aging in Maine Community Needs Assessment.”
30 | BOSTON SPIRIT
“In general, the report validates everything that we already know to be true and reveals some opportunities,” says Hennessey, who is now advocating for a SAGE chapter in Maine. “Essentially, we discovered that GLBT people are facing many of the same challenges as everyone else as they get older, but it also shows that GLBT adults experience much more isolation and discrimination which often forces them to go back into the closet that they worked their entire lives to escape.” Maine is the most recent state to allow gay marriage, and the first in the nation to have the law approved by a majority of voters at the polls. Following the passage of the gay marriage law, many in the state have wondered: “What’s next?” After all, marriage is
the default panacea of gay rights, and Maine ranks in the top ten states in the nation for gay-friendly laws. Another distinction? Maine has the oldest population in the U.S. with more than 300,000 elders age 60 and over. It is estimated that 15,000 of them are gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender. For many, the reality of old age comes, hits when one is faced with the reality of what it means to be senior. Dr. Erica Magnus, a volunteer with the AARP, has been caring for her 90-year-old mother with the help of her partner of 25 years. By Magnus’s account, her mother receives a remarkable level of care. “Without us she would be in a nursing home because her needs really outweigh her ability to live on her own,” says Magnus. “I think caring for my mother all
these years has really opened my mind to preparing for life as we age.” However, when Magnus read the report and the accounts of those who are now scared to be out when entering an institution, she says it was a real “eye opener.” “The statistics are scary,” she says. “I hope if I one day need the care that she needs now, I want to know that I can be who I am without being afraid.” According to Bob Linscott, Assistant Director at THE LGBT Aging Project in Massachusetts, the situation in Maine is not unique. He points to the story of elderly man in a rural area near Worcester who had been with his nowdeceased partner for close to 40 years. At the time of his partner’s death, the man was connected by Linscott with a case worker to provide
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) Aging in Maine Community Needs Assessment 2012 Survey and Focus Group Report Marilyn R. Gugliucci, Shirley A. Weaver, Douglas C. Kimmel, Muriel Littlefield, Lucky Hollander, John Hennessy March 2013
support. However, rather than navigate elder care as a gay man, the senior simply decided to “no longer be gay.”
“He told me that now that his partner is gone, he can’t bear to be alone for the rest of his life and that, if he was gay, he could never go into a senior center.
So, he just decided that he would no longer be gay,” says Linscott. “These accounts just tear your heart out.” Linscott’s group recently joined MassEquality to advocate for an LGBT Elder Commission to study and recommend ways to meet the unique needs of gay seniors in the Bay State. “Despite having an excellent elder care system in Massachusetts, we frequently encounter providers who claim they don’t have any LGBT constituents,” said Lisa Krinsky, LGBT Aging Project Executive Director. “There is a great need for this Commission so we can learn more about this invisible population and their unique experiences and needs in order to ensure that LGBT elders feel safe and comfortable.”
Designer Collection: Bowers & Wilkins 800 Series Diamond Loudspeakers
“Life is one grand, sweet song,
so start the music.” - Unknown
concepts that simplify life ShowroomS Boston | 617.734.1800 n. attleBoro | 508.699.8819
audioconcepts.com audio/video | automation & integration | communication systems | furnishings | shades & lighting | wifi & networking
Jul|Aug 2013 | 31
“ This is truly the next crisis for us to come together on. Gay seniors become alone again at a much higher rate than straight peers. All of the support that most people take for granted in terms of children, grandchildren, and other social networks as they go into a senior center or a community center, all those things are often stripped away.” Bob Linscott, Assistant Director at The LGBT Aging Project in Massachusetts Multiple surveys distributed by SAGE, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, and the LGBT Aging Project have shown that LGBT elders have a great need for services to help them to continue living independently as they age, but that they are also unlikely to request such services: approximately 3.8-7.6% of the total elder population is LGBT, and this is expected to double by 2030 as the baby boomers, the first generation of post-Stonewall, openly LGBT older adults continues to age “This is truly the next crisis for us to come together on. Gay seniors become alone again at a much higher rate than
WHAT IS
a private bank with a legacy of creating legacies
straight peers. All of the support that most people take for granted in terms of children, grandchildren, and other social networks as they go into a senior center or a community center, all those things are often stripped away,” says Linscott. “All of the fears of what the world was like when they were coming of age comes roaring back, and it’s pervasive.” The answer? Education in the form of cultural competency training for care givers and awareness for other elders. “Care givers need to understand that they are tasked with providing the most and best compassionate care,” says Linscott.
WORTH?
For over 200 years, U.S. Trust has offered wealth planning insight from our highly specialized teams. We work to bring you a deep understanding of how to help expand and preserve your wealth, to help care for the generations before and after you. To learn how our experience can help benefit you and your family, please contact Kai Hoysradt, Private Client Manager, at kai.hoysradt@ustrust.com or 617.346.4134.
100 Federal Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02110 | ustrust.com
Investment products: Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value U.S. Trust operates through Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC. WHAT IS WORTH is a trademark of Bank of America Corporation. © 2013 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. | ARXXXXXX | AD-04-13-2045
“ He told me that now that that his partner is gone, he can’t bear to be alone for the rest of his life and that, if he was gay, he could never go into a senior center. So, he just decided that he would no longer be gay,. These accounts just tear your heart out. ” Bob Linscott, Assistant Director at The LGBT Aging Project in Massachusetts “As for peers, their attitudes toward the LGBT community have marinated for 70 years or more, but we know that things change when you put a face to it.” In fact, Linscott, who left his home state of Maine in the ‘80s because of his own feelings of isolation, credits some of the support for gay marriage in New England to the stories of those couples who have been together for 40 or more years and speak publicly about the impact legal marriage would have on their lives. Now, he says, it’s time to shine a brighter light on what it means to be old and alone — for many, for the first time in decade.
Hennessey, a long time gay rights advocate, agrees. “In many cases, these people have fought for independence and for their identity their entire lives. The notion of going back into the closet is anathema to them, and yet that often becomes their only option when they enter care,” says Hennessey. “We need to reach out to them and let them know it’s ok. And, it will be okay because there is an opportunity to make these places non-threatening while helping straight people understand what it means, or doesn’t mean, to have gay people in their midst.” [x]
GRE T STORIES
BEGIN HERE! Known for the Witch Trials of 1692, visitors to Salem, Massachusetts will discover a rich maritime heritage, literary history, museums, cultural attractions, architectural districts, unique shopping, and local cuisine. Just 15 miles north of Boston, Salem is accessible by car, train, and seasonal ferry.
@DestSalem
Learn more about Salem, Massachusetts at Salem.org
feature Politics story Tony Giampetruzzi
How Rhode Island— Finally!—Got Marriage Equality The little state that should have been a slam-dunk dragged its heels on the way to the altar, but ultimately got there Frank Ferri plans to marry his partner of 32-years, Tony, on August 1, the couple’s anniversary. A democratic state representative from Rhode Island, Ferri has seen many August firsts come and go and, as a long time marriage equality advocate, each has been bittersweet. But Rhode Island became the tenth U.S. state, and the final state in New England, to allow gay marriage when lawmakers voted approvingly in May. Conveniently, for Ferri, the first day that the law goes into effect is August 1. “It’s still settling in. It’s a funny feeling to know that I don’t have to get out of
34 | BOSTON SPIRIT
bed tomorrow and advocate another day for gay marriage,” says Ferri, an elected official for six years, but someone who has walked the Statehouse floors for nearly two decades advocating for marriage equality. “I’ve been talking to so many people over so many years about it and trying to educate people. You know, every chance I got I was advocating for it, even if it was just in subtle ways. So, now it’s happened, it’s strange. Pinch me! It’s a really, really strange feeling.” To be sure, it’s been a long haul for Rhode Island which was out of the gate earlier than most states in 2002 with a domestic
Rep. Frank Ferri celebrating marriage equality in Rhode Island
partnership law. By then, a bill to legalize gay marriage had been introduced every year since 1997, and in every subsequent year leading up to the victory of 2013. So what happened? Most attribute the delay in getting one of the bills to stick to the state’s political leadership beginning in 2003. Newlyelected Republican Governor Donald Carcieri, as well as the speaker of the House, William J. Murphy, and the Senate president, M. Teresa Paiva-Weed, both democrats, all opposed marriage equality. “I don’t think we have a great answer to why Rhode Island was the last of the New England states to get marriage equality passed, except to say that in most recent history [Murphy] not only tried to thwart marriage equality efforts, but really any efforts to pass legislation that would
“ That’s when things began to change. Chaffee was a huge supporter of the LGBT community. He made marriage equality a part of his platform. ” protect same-sex couples,” says Janson Wu, Staff Attorney at Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders (GLAD), a major partner in marriage equality efforts throughout New England. In November 2008, the fifth anniversary of gay marriage in Massachusetts, GLAD announced an ambitious project called the “Six by Twelve” campaign to bring marriage to all six New England states by 2012. Despite a hiccup in Maine where a law was passed, repealed and then passed again in November 2012, Rhode Island remained the lone outlier. And, by then, activists were staging a full court press. In fact, what was occurring behind the scenes in Rhode Island in the months leading up to and after the 2012 elections was a campaign strategy that the Associated Press (AP) called “a recipe”
Ray Sullivan Executive Director of Marriage Equality Rhode Island
for other states. “Phone banks, an army of volunteers and alliances with organized labor, business leaders and religious clergy propelled gay marriage to victory in Rhode Island … a savvy and coordinated strategy that relied on growing public support and old fashioned bare-knuckle politics,” the AP reported last May. Ray Sullivan, Executive Director of Marriage Equality Rhode Island, and a former legislator, was one of masterminds behind the plan. “It’s interesting to me that anyone would have thought that Rhode Island could have passed this sooner. I served in the assembly for six years, so I know some Republicans are more Democrat and some
Democrats are more Republican,” he said referring to trifecta of anti-marriage state leadership. The light at the end of the tunnel began to shine in 2010 with election of Governor Lincoln Chaffee, then an Independent (he has subsequently become a Democrat). “That’s when things began to change. Chaffee was a huge supporter of the LGBT community. He made marriage equality a part of his platform. He highlighted it in his state his State of the State address. … It was a huge priority for him.” The challenge, though, was getting a bill to his desk—the landscape of the Statehouse had to change, and it would require an enormous effort. To that end, a progressive coalition was formed leading up to the 2012 elections that included labor unions, faith organizations, environmental and women groups who all had common interests in common candidates. This allowed for combining resources to focus on 12 house and five senate seats. The effort was successful. “That was when we could realistically articulate that there was a path to getting this done,” says Sullivan. “We didn’t win
Make island memories on Martha’s Vineyard & Nantucket. LOWEST FARES, FREQUENT DAILY DEPARTURES For a day or a stay, we offer the lowest fares and frequent daily departures from Woods Hole to Martha’s Vineyard and Hyannis to Nantucket, including our high-speed passenger ferry to Nantucket. For more trips, more ferries and more fun, the Steamship Authority is the way to go!
Bookmark our mobile website and visit our NEW online store.
SteamshipAuthority.com • 508-477-8600
Lombardo’s
has been providing the highest
quality of hospitality and cuisine for over50 years.. From innovative menus to an upscale atmosphere,
Lombardo’s ensures every wedding willexceed their
Celebrating 50 Years client’s expectations.
Celebrating 50 Years
781.986.50 0 | www.lombardos.com 781.986.5000 | www.lombardos.com
“ We have, by far, the highest percentage of Catholics of any state in the nation, and the Church has been adamantly opposed to gay marriage. But despite their continued opposition this year, I really sensed a momentum shift. We had a fantastic and engaged activist movement in our state that handled this issue like a political campaign. ” Gordon Fox RI House Speaker
every race but we won enough to influence the process.” It helped that the new Speaker of the House was openly gay Democrat Gordon Fox. “Going into session, we had a fired up speaker, a new class of sponsors, and we knew we could get it done, it was just a matter of connecting legislators with their constituents who could tell their stories, tell them why marriage matters,” says Sullivan. Wasting no time, in January, Representative Arthur Handy and Senator Donna Nesselbach introduced legislation that would legalize gay marriage. “Early on it was a fairness thing for me. Why does one person have a right that another person doesn’t have?” says Handy, who has been a marriage supporter in the legislature since the early 2000s and who credits the stories of others with an even greater evolutional shift in
his thinking on the issue. “I’m a straight man, I’ve been married since 1997 and I have a nine-year-old son. Over the years, this issue actually caused me to look at myself and my marriage and why the ‘marriage’ aspect of my union is so important to me. I moved from looking at it from a legal right to more of an emotional connection that comes with having the right.” Handy’s experience is exactly what Sullivan and company were hoping to duplicate throughout the Statehouse by having Rhode Islanders share their personal stories, their wedding albums, what it means to them that all their children are allowed to get married, and why they want their children to grow up in state where all families would be treated equally.” “The messaging became critical,” says Sullivan adding that the size of the bullhorn also helped. “I think that
legislators were taken aback by the size and sophistication of the campaign. We were connecting them with as many as 50 constituents per hour. The phones in their homes or offices would ring non-stop.” According to Sullivan, many have called the effort the largest grassroots campaign in state history. “In 15 years, I’ve never seen anything like it,” he says. The campaign did have its opponents. “We have, by far, the highest percentage of Catholics of any state in the nation, and the Church has been adamantly opposed to gay marriage’” says Speaker Gordon Fox. “But despite their continued opposition this year, I really sensed a momentum shift. We had a fantastic and engaged activist movement in our state that handled this issue like a political campaign.”
Case in point, the pro-marriage side tapped their vast resources to blunt the anti-gay Catholic leadership with a “collar-to-collar” strategy. With more than 150 faith leaders in support of marriage, any effort by a faith leader to speak out against marriage would be swiftly answered by a pro-gay faith leader. “We had unrelenting momentum and an unprecedented grassroots build up,” says Sullivan. “And, at the end of the day, we simply asked the legislators to receive what we are saying with open hearts and minds. Ninety percent did. And we flipped votes because they heard from so many people in their districts that this was the right thing to do.” After a 16-year build up, marriage equality was approved handily by the legislature on May 2; Chaffee signed the bill the same day.
We take
“This has had a wonderful impact on both me and my partner Marcus. We’ve been in a committed, loving relationship for 14 years, and now we have the same rights that everyone else enjoys,” said Fox. “On a personal level, it is tremendously gratifying because I always felt pressure to get this bill passed, even though I knew the votes just didn’t exist at the time. It took a great deal of patience and perseverance.” Ferri hasn’t made final plans for he and Tony’s nuptials, although he thinks it will be a reception of sorts in Providence with cake and champagne. Reflecting on the struggle in Rhode Island, he admits that when the state finally legalized gay marriage— the tenth state to do so — he was a little disappointed that the event didn’t receive the
same national fanfare earlier efforts garnered. “It makes me feel average [laughs]. But, it’s a good thing,” he says. “We always use the term ‘fabric of society,’ and that’s what we’ve become. We’ve moved on from being the misfits. It’s not a controversy anymore.” Controversy or not, Wu concedes that there’s plenty to be done. “Our goal was to bring marriage equality to all New England states by 2012, and I think we did pretty well,” he says. “Now, having worked with all six states and in different capacities in the courts, in the legislatures, and at the ballot box, we’ve amassed a tremendous amount of expertise and certainly look forward to working with and advising our colleagues throughout the country in getting marriage equality passed everywhere.” [x]
PRIDE in you!
At Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates, we serve our communities with true quality care in an environment where everyone fits in. We are proud of the diverse communities we serve and workforce we employ. Diversity and inclusion make us better.
To join us at Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates for a career that takes pride in you, please visit:
www.harvardvanguard.org/jobs Harvard Vanguarwww.harvardvanguard.org/jobs d Medical Associates is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.
To join us at Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates for a career that takes pride in you, please visit: Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Jul|Aug employer. 2013 | 37
culture Travel story Mark Krone
The Radical Ferry (to P’town) 40 years ago, new boat service initiated a freedom ride to sexual and personal liberation during a time less welcoming to LGBTs It’s been one of those weeks. Your boss revealed yet another irrational side; you can’t seem to please your partner; and you had so little time to pack for this trip to Provincetown, you must have forgotten something. When you arrive on the dock, you decide the perfectly coiffed men in front of you are a little too self-consciously handsome and the high-spirited young women in front of them are too happy for this time of the morning.
Looks like you need a little Provincetown. With the engines grumbling, the boat slowly makes a 180 degree turn and heads away from the city. When it passes Nick’s
38 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Mate into the Outer Harbor, the seas swell, the breeze cools, and your body slackens. You lean on the railing facing seaward for the rush of salt air. Suddenly, you know why the women were laughing and the men-boys were smiling. The truth is, you’re all lucky to be alive, on this boat, and heading to the unique seaside town you’ve come to love. Transformations like this do not happen in traffic on Route 6, but are a regular event on the historic Boston-Provincetown ferry route. If you’re a veteran P’town ferry rider, memories of prior trips dip and dart in the boat’s wake like seagulls chasing tossed pretzels. For LGBT passengers who came
photo Courtesy Provincetown History Preservation Project
of age in less welcoming times, the boat was a freedom ride to sexual and personal liberation where they could escape land-side’s harsh stares. Though only 55 nautical miles, it seemed like a trip over the rainbow. Although schooners and steamers have carried supplies and people between Boston and Provincetown since the 18th century, one of the earliest boats dedicated to the tourist trade was The Longfellow in 1883. Happy passengers in bloomers and stiff collars rode to the tip of Cape Cod for a stroll and some seafood. They could not know how The Longfellow would meet its end in 1904. Set to retire after twenty years of service, The Longfellow was given one final mission: to carry a loadof dynamite from Wilmington, Delaware to Portsmouth, New Hampshire. It was autumn and a nor’easter was brewing off the coast of New England. The boat’s seams stretched and broke. Leaks sprouted. The terrified crew was sure the boat would blow up from a rogue wave or by running aground. Fortunately, neither happened, as the crew was gingerly plucked one-by-one from the ailing ship and put in lifeboats to shore. The boat was
left just off shore, wedged between some rocks. A year later, Truro residents heard a great explosion. It was The Longfellow, finally blowing up. The list of Boston-Provincetown ferries that followed The Longfellow reads like a roll-call of New England: The Yankee Clipper, The Romance, Naushon, The Dorothy Bradford, Acorn, Cape Cod, Northern Light and the pious-sounding, Truth. To Provincetown residents, the “Boston boat” has meant crowds and a welcome infusion of tourist dollars. Provincetown native Clement Silva remembers looking forward to the boat’s arrival, “As a kid growing up in the East End [in the 1950s], we’d get excited when the boat came in. We’d wait for the big waves it made and body surf them. It was true fun.” Another P’town native, Peter Robert Cook, remembers diving for coins when The Steel Pier and The Boston Belle brought passengers from Boston in the 1950s and early 1960s. “My friends and I dove for coins and bought lobster knuckles at the fish market at the end of the pier. We also used our change to play the pin ball machines, shoot pool, or bowl a few strings
photo Courtesy Provincetown History Preservation Project
photo Courtesy Bay State Cruises
at Anthony Perry`s Bowl A Way on Commercial Street.”
Paul J. Asher-Best recently recalled being in his 20s, working the lunch shift at the Post Office Café in the 1970s. “We’d watch for the boat in the second floor lounge. [When it arrived], it was our busiest hour of the day. Bo [of the Bo Winiker Band, which got its start playing on the Provincetown ferry] used to bring a boatload of blue-haired matronly passengers with him. I remember a woman who brought her grandchildren over on the boat. At the end of the meal, she did not have enough money to pay the bill, and was mortified. A gentleman at the next table paid the check for her, and told her to save her money for ice cream for the kids. I started weeping right there on the floor, earning the reputation for not being tough enough to handle the boat rush.” Hard to believe now, but between 1965-1972, there was no ferry service between Boston and Provincetown as auto travel reached its zenith. In 1972, Dick Nakashian revived the route by starting the Bay State-Spray and Provincetown Steamship Company. In a 2012 interview with writer Laura Shabott, Nakashian said that when he launched The Provincetown
Outdoor Living Event! • Outdoor Furniture • Garden Gifts • Perennials • Umbrellas • Fountains
• Trees & Shrubs • Statuary • Pottery • Annuals • Cushions
1265 Massachusetts Ave. Lexington, MA 02420 Tel 781.861.1200 www.seasonsfour.com
The OuTdOOr Living STOre deSignerS WeLcOme cLOSed TueSdayS Your time is important. Make a one time investment for a lifetime of outdoor living. For over 40 years offering the best selection of quality casual furnishings, priced to fit your budget.
selection
value
service
in 1973, there was pent up demand for water travel. The Provincetown carried 600 passengers and made the roundtrip in nine hours. Nakashian hired the Winiker Band to provide entertainment and opened two snack bars that served liquor. Eight years later, Nakashian launched The Provincetown II, which held 1100 passengers and cut the round
40 | BOSTON SPIRIT
trip to six hours, making it more popular with day trippers. The top decks of the Provincetown and Provincetown II were nicknamed “Steel Beach” by the crew as passengers, gay and straight, sun-bathed and lounged with a languor that is fondly recalled by writer Dermot Meagher, “On the top deck on sunny days the muscle-boys used to strip
The Provincetown II docking during Boston Tall Ships photo Courtesy Bay State Cruises down and work on their tans. There were two or three bars. On the way back to Boston there were some strange couplings as the booze and the music did their tricks.” In 1987, Nakashian sold The Provincetown II to a corporate shipping company. It changed hands several times as
1
2 3
4
[1] Flo and Ruby—The first Boston Harbor Cruises vessel [2] Matthew J. Hughes Boston Harbor Cruises Founder in 1926 [3] Rita and Rookie—Boston Harbor Cruises founder’s daughters
and 2nd generation in the Long Wharf ticket booth
[4] The Long Wharf during the construction of the Marriott in the 1980s
photos Courtesy Boston Harbor Cruises
ridership decreased. By the mid-1990s, the future of the Boston-Provincetown run was in doubt as the company went in and out of receivership. Enter Mike Glasfeld, the current owner of Bay State Cruises. Glasfeld, a true believer in the history and magic of sea travel — he may be one of the few ferry owners given to quoting Mary Oliver poems—began as a deckhand on the Spirit
of Boston in 1985, and by 1998 had risen to become president of marine operations of the boat’s parent company. One of his assignments was to find a buyer for the ailing Provincetown II operation. He did—himself. “They had faith in me and knew I was going to leave the company anyway to do something new and different. … Bay State Cruises was bulked up to six boats at the
Fargo sofa from $2795 Ogi chair from $1095
A SOFA SHOULD NEVER BE EGOCENTRIC If you have a small home, we will help to make the most of it. Or a big, triangular house, we will make it fit perfectly. At BoConcept, you can make your own choice in design, size, shape, colour and material. Our concept is all about you, your home and your exciting, personal taste.
BoConcept Cambridge · 999 Mass Ave · MA 02138 · Tel. 617 588 7777 · www.boconcept.com
time and I pared it down to [just the Provincetown II] and we were able to make a go of it.” Glasfeld now leases a “fast ferry” high speed catamaran Provincetown III and says he will add a second fast ferry, the Provincetown IV, this summer. He is committed to maintaining the Provincetown II, which makes selected runs to Provincetown. In 2000, Boston Harbor Cruises began service to Provincetown from Long Wharf. The 7,200 horse-power Salacia is the largest fast ferry to Provincetown. The Salacia can reach 40 knots, equivalent to 45 MPH. Alison Nolan and Christopher Nolan carry on the family business, begun in 1926. On a recent sunny afternoon, Christopher Nolan pronounced business “great.” And Alison gives a lot of the credit to the town of Provincetown. “They’ve done a lot to make it a place people want to go to.” [x]
#1 WE BELIEVE IN INDIVIDUALITY THE WORLD REVOLVES ARROUND YOU, NOT YOUR FURNITURE
seasonal Careers story James Lopata
2013 Career Section
Dorie Clark
The Importance of Personal Reinvention
Whew! Clearly Clark knows how to move from one career to the next. She is sharing her wisdom in her new book Reinventing You, published recently by Harvard Business Review. Boston Spirit picked Clark’s brain on what this idea of reinventing yourself is all about and why it is becoming an imperative part of career development these days.
How to navigate shifting employment markets in a fun, fulfilling way, from local out strategic communications consultant Dorie Clark
[BOSTON SPIRIT] Why would a Boston Spirit reader want to reinvent him- or herself?
Dorie Clark is a master at reinventing herself. After graduating from Smith College at the precocious age of 18, she acquired a master’s degree from Harvard Divinity School, became a journalist for The Boston Phoenix before becoming press secretary for Robert Reich’s
suggest in the book—kind of the premise of it—is that almost everybody needs to reinvent themselves professionally at some point in their careers these days. This could be because in many cases the economy is changing so fast. You need to think a few steps ahead and reinvent yourself or you’re going to be a few steps behind. That becomes important. Also,
42 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Massachusetts gubernatorial run and a communications’ specialist with Howard Dean’s presidential campaign. Next she took on the helm of the Massachusetts Bicycle Coalition before launching her own business as a strategic communications consultant.
[Dorie Clark] There’s a couple reasons. I
Reinvention Tips Recruit A Wingman
Promote Yourself In E-Mail
It’s hard to boast about your expertise in public. It’s easier when a friend does it for you. Find a trusted friend or colleague. Strategize a bit before a networking event about how you can best help each other. At the event, in the right context, drop something relevant and interesting about your friend into the conversation that can help promote her business path.
If you’ re having a meeting with someone, and you start it by rattling off a list of your accomplishments, they may think you’re a jerk. It’s more culturally acceptable to boast in writing. Before meeting with a key contact, send an e-mail where you list key points of your background that are relevant to your conversation. That is taken as a relevant information and ends up ensuring that they walk into the meeting with a greater grasp of your expertise.
I think there is a greater understanding or mentality that the job you pick when you’re 22-years-old is not the job you’re going to want to keep for 40 or 50 years. People grow and evolve, and I think there is a proactive desire to try new things and challenge themselves. If you’re going to do that, you need to reinvent yourself. Specifically from a GLBT perspective, one of the themes I speak about in Reinventing You is making sure how the rest of the world sees you as aligned with how you see yourself and how you want to be seen. I think we are moving
“ Almost everybody needs to reinvent themselves professionally at some point in their careers these days. This could be because in many cases the economy is changing so fast. You need to think a few steps ahead and reinvent yourself or you’re going to be a few steps behind. ”
into an era where what matters most, professionally, is not how you’re the same as other people, but how you are different and what you can uniquely contribute. I think being out and proud and bringing your full self into your professional life and making sure people get your value is an important theme in Reinventing You. [BS] On the LGBT theme, there’s the whole
Richard Florida creative class idea that neighborhoods with more gay people have more diversity in them. There’s a sort of creativity that
You know what you want to achieve. Find out how BU’s Metropolitan College can help you realize your vision.
Join us at an Open House
Discover our wide range of part-time, evening programs for busy adults, and hear about admission policies and financial aid options. Undergraduate Open House Charles River Campus Saturday, July 20, 10 a.m.
Sign up at bu.edu/met/info.
Learn from the BEST.
An equal opportunity, affirmative action institution.
Graduate Open House Charles River Campus Saturday, July 27, 10 a.m.
2013 Career Section comes with reinventing one’s self. Do you think the LGBT community is a natural for this kind of reinvention? [DC] Yes. That is a really interesting question and an interesting premise. As you say researchers like Richard Florida and other academics indicate that cities and neighborhoods that embrace diversity and are open to more creative intersections are more economically viable and are more interesting places, where people want to be. In our economy, it pays to be open, creative, and willing to question traditional assumptions. That has been proven to be a recipe for economic success. Those same factors make it a powerful thing to be an out professional and embrace those values in your own life.
[BS] You offer a lot of great
suggestions, great stories, and ideas throughout the book. What are one or two of the key ideas that have been the most helpful to others?
[DC] One that I think would be of interest, especially to Boston Spirit readers, is about Chip Conley, the founder of Joie de Vivre Hotels. One of the points I make in Reinventing You is that in our modern society when you think about your reputation and how you are viewed by others, you have to operate on two parallel tracks. There’s a track of how you live and take action in your everyday life, and there’s also your online reputation and the importance of aligning those things. So there’s a story in the book where I interview Chip Conley. This actually got a fair amount of attention nationally. He had posted pictures of himself on his Facebook page
at Burning Man, not solicitous pictures, but fun pictures. He’s in a tutu. Some of his advisors said, “Chip, you should take them down.” He felt that was really a moment where he had a choice to make about whether he was going to bow to what people thought he should do or whether he should put himself out there and be himself. He decided to keep the pictures up, and he said about 80% of the mail he got was favorable. People thought it was really brave that he did that. To me, it really speaks to the importance of authenticity in your personal brand. You can do okay for a little while reinventing a personality, but you can’t do well for a long while, because the truth eventually comes out. It’s a stressful process hiding things, and people feel duped. Ultimately, as we
enter a world where more and more information is publicly available and it is easier to get the 411 on you, it’s important to be authentic and transparent and to really think through how do I want myself to be perceived and how can I act in a way that encourages that. [BS] What are a couple of ideas
or tips that you want to offer for how people can reinvent themselves in their careers?
[DC] One, which you may remember from the book, is the wingman concept. Something that is great for any professional, but perhaps would appeal to especially Boston Spirit readers who may come to the executive networking night or the boat cruise, is to recruit a wingman. This basically means you find a trusted friend or colleague,
[continues 81]
If you can work, you can work at Harvard! We are so much more than just students and professors. We are the 5th largest private employer in Massachusetts, with over 16,000 employees. Almost any job you can think of exists at the University.
employment.harvard.edu 44 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Out for More Than 25 Years. Our law firm’s commitment to the gay community goes back to the days before out was in. In 1986 – the year the US Supreme Court ruled on Bowers v. Hardwick – we elected an openly gay attorney to partnership status for the first time. In 1993, we became one of the first law firms in the nation to extend benefits to same-sex partners. And since 1995, our law firm has served as pro bono counsel to the Human Rights Campaign, the largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for LGBT Americans. Today we’re proud to continue to do what’s right – subsidizing the tax penalties gay employees pay for domestic partner benefits, providing transgender health care, and offering a family leave policy that lets LGBT colleagues stay home to welcome new babies or adopted children into their families.
Isn’t it time your law firm focused on what matters to you?
It’s time.
Scan to learn about our career opportunities.
Information contained herein may be considered attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. 2452
Boston | London | Los Angeles | New York | San Diego | San Francisco | Stamford | Washington
888.908.1933 | www.mintz.com
Tips for Small Businesses Facing Difficult Financial Times
Tips for Smal Busines es Facing Dif icult Financial Times SCOTT H. MOSKOL
Partner and Vice Chairman of the Firm's Financial Restructuring & Distressed Transactions Group
WILLIAM V. SOPP
Partner and Co-Chairman of the Firm’s Financial Restructuring & Distressed Transactions Group
Although the economy appears to have turned the corner, not all businesses have shared in the recovery. Many small businesses still struggle to pay their bills in a timely fashion. Indeed, many business owners still face hard economic times and financial difficulties that, if not attended to, could lead those businesses to file for bankruptcy. Although we authors are bankruptcy lawyers, we also believe that there are various steps that small business owners should consider prior to making the ultimate decision to file for bankruptcy. Following are various strategies to consider when consulting with your attorney, accountant or other financial professionals as preliminary steps before confronting the difficult choice of whether or not to file for bankruptcy. This list is not exhaustive, nor will these strategies work in every situation; it is meant to offer some general strategies to discuss with your consultants and implement in sufficient time.
COTT H. MOSKOL
artner and Vice Chairman of
1. Do not procrastinate/delay in speaking with your professional advisors. It is not uncommon for business owners to defer requesting assistance until it is too late to do anything to save their business, other than file for bankruptcy. Too often clients think that paying professional fees won’t be the best use of their dwindling cash flow – rather they assume business will pick up during an upcoming “busy season,” or a new product will improve cash flow. If you are concerned that you are having financial difficulties, such that you are just beginning to think of the “B” word, consult a professional sooner than later – more often than not it will save you money in the long run (and hopefully avoid a bankruptcy filing). 2. Review your budget – Where can you trim the fat? No business owner wants to reduce its operating levels, but sometimes it is necessary. Examine your monthly budget and determine where your expenses may be excessive. Can you restructure your operations in such a way that there is more cash flow every week to help pay your expenses? Have you hired too many people given current economic realities? That said, don’t go overboard. There are certain line item expenditures that are essential to maintaining the viability of every business. For example, don’t cancel insurance policies that you have in place simply as a means to save money. Although you may have never made a claim to the insurance company to date, having coverage in place can be
a lifesaver down the line. Continue to make all employee-based payments, such as health insurance, 401(k), employment taxes, etc. Even though these are company liabilities, failure to make such payments could result in personal liability upon the owners. 3. Seek to renegotiate debt carrying high interest rates (or avoid it all together). Often clients facing urgent cash needs will borrow money on their personal credit cards or resort to a high interest loan (we’ve seen rates in the 20% or more range) in order to compensate for declining revenues or increased costs. While these offer a quick short term fix, they ultimately add a drain on future cash flow and often make it difficult to restructure your debt obligations later. If you had no choice and are carrying high-interest debt obligations, we have had some success in negotiating a moratorium or reduction in the interest rates on such high interest unsecured debt, which serves to immediately free up cash flow. While not all creditors are amenable, you should at least consider approaching your advisors (and creditors) with this proposal. 4. Begin a dialogue with your bank/ secured lender sooner rather than later. Small business owners often make the mistake of waiting until the last minute to get in touch with their bank to discuss payment options. Banks like some semblance of certainty and predictability. If your loan is about to mature in 3-6 months, don’t wait until the month before
1. Do not procrastinate/delay in a lifesaver down the line. Continue to speaking with your profes ional make al employee-based payments, such advisors. It is not uncommon for as health insurance, 401(k), employment
Burns & Levinson is a Boston-based law firm with over 125 attorneys and offices in Providence and New York, as well as in the Merrimack Valley / North Shore, Metro West and South Shore areas of Massachusetts. We work with entrepreneurs, emerging businesses, private and public companies and individuals in sophisticated business transactions, litigation and private client services – family law, trusts & estates, marriage and divorce law.
burnslev.com 617.345.3000 Office Locations: Boston (HQ), Andover, Hingham, New York, Providence, Waltham
the deadline to let the bank know that you will have difficulties paying it off. Banks may be willing to extend the loan for a period of time, say 6-12 months while you seek a refinance, or they might be willing to roll over the debt into another short term loan. But requests like this take time for banks to approve, so do not wait until the last minute! 5. Don’t get too far behind on payments. If you have failed for some time to make monthly payments to the bank, you are at a disadvantage in trying to work out a modification. Banks are in the business of lending money, not owning businesses, so they want to be paid in a timely fashion, rather than foreclosing on a business. And you are not the first customer/borrower that fell into financial difficulties. We have found success in such situations by negotiating either a modification or forbearance agreement at a point of anticipating payment default. Here, the bank may be willing to lower your interest rate for a short period of time or even waive principal payments while agreeing not to exercise their rights or remedies (i.e. agreeing to refrain from collecting on the loan and initiating foreclosure or litigation against you).
business, there are options. We have had success in negotiating what is termed a discounted payout, or “DPO”. In such circumstances, especially if it looks like the business will be defaulting on the debt, the bank may accept a lesser amount in satisfaction of its debt and be willing to release any security interests it may have on the business’ assets (or your own personal property).
the deadline to let the bank know that you wil have difficulties paying it off. Banks may be wil ing to extend the loan for a period of time, say 6-12 months while you se k a refinance, or they might be wil ing to rol over the debt into another short term loan. But requests like this take time for banks to approve, so do not wait until the last minute!
6. Contemplate a sale of the company or a sale of equity. Sometimes, business owners need a new financial partner or infusion of cash to help keep the business afloat, to purchase new products or even to expand. Other times, especially if the owners have personally guaranteed the debt, they may want to sell the business and get out from under all the debt obligations so as to start afresh. Don’t be afraid to explore these options. Even if the debt owed to the bank is greater than the valuation of the
an imminent foreclosure by a secured creditor, a bankruptcy filing will stop such a proceeding (as well as all litigation that is ongoing against the business) and give you some breathing room. Bankruptcy can allow you to restructure your debt – both your secured debt and unsecured trade debt – and can allow you to escape an onerous lease or other burdensome contractual obligations. Certainly, if structured correctly, a timely filed bankruptcy could help save your business.
busines , there are options. We have had suc es in negotiating what is termed a discounted payout, or “DPO”. In such circumstances, especial y if it looks like the busines wil be defaulting on the debt, the bank may ac ept a les er amount in satisfaction of its debt and be wil ing to release any security interests it may have on the busines ’ as ets (or
7. Negotiate with landlords and other trade creditors. Often, businesses are crippled by their monthly rents or in their attempts to catch up on arrearages owed to trade creditors. Do not be afraid – whether by yourself or through your professionals – to approach landlords for some rent relief. For example, if you are paying above-market rent or there are huge vacancies in the area, landlords may be willing to give you an abatement or deferral in the rent. The alternative to the landlord – especially if your business otherwise would be forced to close -- is a vacant building in which no rent is received. The same rationale can apply to your trade creditors as well. They want your business to succeed so they will have a customer to whom they can continue to sell supplies, materials or services. 8. Finally, don’t be afraid of bankruptcy (or other similar options). It may be that, after attempting various strategies to restructure your debt or your business operations, you cannot turn things around. Business owners are routinely afraid of using bankruptcy or similar insolvency proceedings as an option to re-make their company. As a result, by the time they talk to a bankruptcy lawyer it may be too late to save the business operations. Bankruptcy can be a useful strategic tool. If you are facing
burns & levinson’s lgbt group
an imminent foreclosure by a secured creditor, a bankruptcy filing wil stop such a proce ding (as wel as al litigation that is ongoing against the busines ) and give you some breathing room.
We believe that timely consideration of the foregoing strategies with your attorney, accountant or other financial professionals will foster a strategic process to face and resolve the financial challenges faced by many business owners. Companies often feel victimized by their creditors’ demands, but foresight in anticipating financial distress can place the tools to solve these problems proactively in the hands of the business owner, rather than ceding control to its lenders, trade creditors or the Bankruptcy Court.
For more information on how your business can best navigate – or avoid – difficult financial situations, please contact Scott Moskol at 617.345.3522 / smoskol@burnslev.com or William Sopp at 617.345.3829 / wsopp@burnslev.com.
This article by Burns & Levinson LLP provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. All views expressed here are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of Boston Spirit Magazine. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Bankruptcy can al ow you to restructure your debt – both your secured debt and unsecured trade debt – and can al ow
Top (left to right): Ellen J. Zucker - Employment Law, Business Litigation, White Collar Criminal Defense Timothy J. Famulare - Real Estate, Design & Construction Laura R. Studen - Employment Litigation, Business Litigation, Family Law Litigation Donald E. Vaughan - Real Estate, Trusts & Estates, Estate Planning Lisa M. Cukier - Estate Litigation, Family Law, Business Litigation
Bottom (left to right): Deborah J. Peckham - Intellectual Property, Trademarks, Licensing Peter F. Zupcofska - Family Law, Probate Litigation Scott H. Moskol - Financial Restructuring & Distressed Transactions, Bankruptcy, Corporate
seasonal Careers story James Lopata
2013 Career Section
Living an Extraordinary Life
What are the risks of having a boring, uninteresting life at a job you hate? asks 12_Layout 1 2/13/13 7:43 PM Page 1 local out Executive Coach Stever Robbins At a recent TED talk, Executive Coach Stever Robbins zeroed in on two archetypal career paths that each of us can choose from. We can take the path of a regular job,
regular salary and benefits and attempt to find meaning and fulfillment in that route, or we can choose to pursue what we are passionate about and figure out how to make the salary and
benefits come. The risk of the first path is possible boredom, frustration and an uninteresting life. The risk of the second is financial insecurity and bankruptcy. Robbins’ various careers as a computer programmer, executive coach, motivational speaker, and now — get this! — musical theater writer, make it clear which path Robbins prefers. In fact, Robbins was the first out gay person at the Harvard Business School. He has always been a pioneer. In a recent phone call, Robbins shared with Boston Spirit some of the ways that
he learned to forge ahead into areas of interest while paying the rent and enjoying what he calls an extraordinary life. [Boston Spirit] What type of things
should our readers be thinking about in terms of careers today?
[Stever Robbins] I think the people should really be scared of global warming and forget careers. They can save for retirement and then die before they retire! [BS] So basically, enjoy life. [SR] Exactly. We live in a
culture where people say, “Oh people can have six or seven careers at a different
Call us at 508-487-0771 for details about our unique Concierge Living Services. You will be amazed at ALL the amenities and services it includes.
Seashore Point is Growing
New Condominiums Starting at $360,000
Located in the heart of Provincetown, The Residences at Seashore Point has become the area’s favorite residence for those age 55 and over. New construction of 38 condominiums began February 2013.
New features include: • Larger Square Footage, some with balconies. • New options and CHOICE of finishes. • New Roof Top Deck with spectacular views. • New, large Fitness and Weight Room. • New, Underground Parking. Construction is underway. Visit our model to visualize your new home. Secure your future address in Provincetown with a deposit today. Then begin making plans to move in 2014!
A not-for-profit organization
The outer Cape’s only Concierge Condominium Community www.seashorepoint.org 100 Alden Street • Provincetown, MA 02657
508-487-0771
Visit Us on Facebook to see everything going on: www.facebook.com/seashorepointresidences 48 | BOSTON SPIRIT
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
boston symphony orchestra • summer 2013
season highlights july 5 fri, 8:30pm
Opening Night at Tanglewood
Boston Symphony Orchestra Rafael Frühbeck de Burgos, conductor Joshua Bell, violin ALL-TCHAIKOVSKY PROGRAM Violin Concerto joshua bell Symphony No. 5
opening weekend sponsor
july 7 sun, 2:30pm
Boston Pops Orchestra Keith Lockhart, conductor Vince Gill, special guest The Boston Pops pay tribute to the American West. Program to include music of Aaron Copland, Bruce Broughton, and John Williams.
july 19 fri, 8:30pm
Boston Symphony Orchestra Vladimir Jurowski, conductor Jean-Yves Thibaudet, piano WAGNER Prelude to Die Meistersinger LISZT Totentanz, for piano and orchestra BRAHMS Symphony No. 1
july 26 fri, 8:30pm
Berkshire Night*
Stever Robbins
time,” but, in reality, when somebody is hiring and they look at the resume and they see six or seven completely unrelated things, and then they look at another resume and they see a ten-year track record of precisely what they want in an employee, they don’t go, “Oh, I’m going to hire the person with six or seven skill sets.” They’re going to hire the person who has more experience doing the one thing they care about. We live in a society where economically, they want to put you in boxes, and I don’t fit easily into boxes. So, I’ve come around to the idea that what really matters is having a strong network of people who know you well and has seen you work. So when you are in one of those career changes — which I am right now — there are people who will take a chance on you because they know you and have faith.
vladimir jurowski
[BS] What are some ways that our
readers might be able to cultivate those networks for themselves?
[SR] One thing I like to do is go
to conferences where you’re likely to meet people who have a lot of skills in common and people who talk about the kind of things you are interested in. But, you can do it socially. You are not competing against them for the company. They can be social friends, but what you have in common is your area of expertise.
[BS] That’s a great way to network. [SR] Also—I am always amazed
at how much people don’t do this—You can pick up the phone and call just about anyone, and they will take your call. I’m always amazed at the people who go, “Oh, I don’t know how I would ever meet so and so.” Well, let’s call them. People are like, “You can’t just call them!” And I’m like, “Yes, you actually can!”—as long as you can find their phone number. If there’s someone I
The Evelyn and Samuel Lourie Memorial Concert Boston Symphony Orchestra Christoph Eschenbach, conductor and piano Christine Schäfer, soprano ALL-MOZART PROGRAM “Ch’io mi scordi di te…Non temer, amato bene,” Concert aria for soprano and orchestra, with piano, K.505 christine schäfer Piano Concerto No. 12 in A, K.414 Symphony No. 41, Jupiter *Free to Berkshire Residents with I.D. Visit tanglewood.org for details.
august 6 tue, 8:30pm
Tanglewood on Parade
The Gregory E. Bulger Foundation Concert Boston Symphony Orchestra Boston Pops Orchestra Tanglewood Music Center Orchestra Stéphane Denève, Charles Dutoit, Keith Lockhart, and John Williams, conductors BORODIN Polovetsian Dances from Prince Igor GERSHWIN An American in Paris BERNSTEIN Music from On the Waterfront TCHAIKOVSKY 1812 Overture Fireworks to follow the concert
august 16 fri, 8:30pm
Boston Pops Orchestra Keith Lockhart, conductor Michael Feinstein and Friends Megan Hilty, guest artist Faith Prince, guest artist
Program to include a tribute to Marvin Hamlisch and centennial celebrations of michael feinstein composer Jimmy Van Heusen and lyricist Sammy Cahn. Sponsored by Cranwell Resort, Spa and Golf Club
Visit tanglewood.org for full season schedule.
BUY TICKETS NOW! · 888-266-1200 · tanglewood.org
Jul|Aug 2013 | 49
Extraordinary Life Tips From Stever Pick Up The Phone Pick up the phone and make a phone call. The very worst that can happen is someone will say no, they don’t want to talk to you, and that’s it. That’s the worst. But if you don’t pick up the phone then you can miss opportunities that you didn’t even know were in your grasp.
Evaluate The Risk Of An Uninteresting Life I used to do career coaching a couple a days a month over at Harvard Business School, and people would come in and say, “I have to take this job that I know I will hate, because the job I love is a nonprofit so the money is uncertain and it’s financially risky.” But the risk these people aren’t thinking about is, what are the risks of having a boring, uninteresting life if you spend it at the job you hate. That can be a bigger risk than having to declare bankruptcy. People are so afraid of rejection that they never reach out. What is the biggest risk, being rejected or being guaranteed that you won’t accomplish or get the opportunity you want?
want to meet, like an author or someone who I think has accomplished something really cool, sometimes I just call them up. I’ll say, “Hey I read your book! I loved your book! And I’d like to talk to you about it. I do the standard networking stuff where I have something to offer them. For example, I am very much looking for my next career right now. But, one thing I’ve gotten interested in is global warming. I think the world is not taking it nearly as seriously enough. So I am kind of sitting here like, how in the hell does someone get involved in the field? So I’ve been calling people. The very worst that can happen is someone will say no, they don’t want to talk to you, and that’s it. That’s the worst. But if you don’t pick up the phone then you can miss opportunities that you didn’t even know was in your grasp.
[BS] With so much communication
today, you might think people would reach out more.
[SR] I don’t understand how
people evaluate risk, especially career risk. I used to do career coaching a couple a days a month over at HBS [Harvard Business School]. People would come in and say, “I have to take this job that I know I will hate, because the job I love is a nonprofit; so the money is uncertain and it’s financially risky.” But the risk these people aren’t thinking about is, what are the risks of having a boring, uninteresting life if you spend it at the job you hate? In my mind, that is a way bigger risk than having to declare bankruptcy. The other side of that is, people are so afraid of rejection that they never reach out. I’m like, “What is the biggest risk, being rejected or being guaranteed that you won’t accomplish or get the opportunity you want?”
presents an evening of food, wine, music and equality! Experience the restaurants of Provincetown in one night! MassEquality’s annual gastronomic festival will feature fabulous hors d’oeuvres, amuse -bouche, and fine wines from some of Provincetown’s most highly- rated celebrity chefs. For tickets or information visit:
saturday, july 20, 2013—6pm provincetown town hall auditorium 260 commercial street
w w w.MassEquality.org/Ptown or call: (617) 878 -23 0 0 Individual Tickets: $125 Sponsorships begin at $250
Media sponsors:
p o’s To o f B ra v i F a i so n, n a f f i T , f e h n tC W i t h Ce l e b r i t y G u e s i n B o s to eek s B BQ Sw e e t C h f o r e n w o / a n d c h ef
Ch e
f
participating venues: Bayside Betsy’s Central House at Crown Harbor Lounge Sage Inn and Lounge Saki Scott Cakes Ten Tables The Waterford Inn ...and more!
“ Do things that make you happy. And as you’re there and you’re happy, you’re making contacts and you’re learning. As you’re doing all that, you will find ways of making money. ” Stever Robbins
I’m far, far, far from perfect, but what amazes me is by what small degree I actually behave like this myself. It enables me to produce far better results. [BS] So, pick up the phone,
network, and reframe how you look at risk. Am I recapping the three biggest points in here?
[SR] Yes, and one of the things
too is my self-serving piece of advice. See my Extraordinary Life Presentation at steverrobbins.com/lel, which stands for “Living an Extraordinary Life.” It started as a TED talk that I gave. It lays out several of my theories about how you live your life overall. Now, I want to be very clear. This is a theory. I have not done detailed, specific research on this. There are two ways to live your life. One is to optimize around being financially stable, and hope in a world of financial stability you find a way to be happy. The other way is to orient your life around happiness, and then, as you’re having a happy, meaningful, satisfying life living in a cardboard box, you potentially find a way to make money. What I find in both of those scenarios is you can both be happy, and find
meaning, and make money. It’s just which one do you make your primary motive and your secondary piece. In our culture, most of us make money and want to be secure and then find out how we can be happy with our lives. It is my suggestion, if you have a skill set, to do it the other way around. First, do things that make you happy. And as you’re there and you’re happy, you’re making contacts and you’re learning. As you’re doing all that, you will find ways of making money. But in the first place, in the place where you find the money first, the difficulty you will have, the place you will find the hard work, is putting up with a job you hate, so that you can get to the things you love in the afternoon, or by the time you’re 50. [BS] Any other suggestions
for our readers?
[SR] One more very important
piece of advice that I forgot. Help everyone around you succeed. Become known as the person who, everyone around you gets magically promoted. Help people succeed. And the more you do that, the more people want to hang out with [continues 81]
seasonal Travel story Scott Kearnan
A bonfire gathering at Easton Mountain photo David Dietz
Camping It Up “Camp” Camp August 18-25 Ten queer sites for enjoying the great outdoors this summer
hick can attest to that. So we found ten queer-friendly spots throughout beautiful New England that are perfect for tossing up a tent or curling up in a cabin, turning off the iPhone, and getting back to nature with fellow gay campers. Take that, Boy Scouts of America!
Ready to rough it? Summer’s here and the itch for a weekend (or longer) escape gets stronger by the sunny day. But despite stereotypes to the contrary, not all LGBT folks want to book some fabulous far-flung vacation—or even lay towel-to-towel with all the usual suspects in P’town. Yes, world, we love the great outdoors too: not just the bears. (Grizzly or otherwise.) The thing is, campsites and woodsy getaways aren’t always among the most inclusive spots. Any bad run-in with a backwoods
52 | BOSTON SPIRIT
“Camp” Camp Looking like the set of an All-American summer camp movie (though not the type with hockey masks) is ‘Camp’ Camp, tucked away in southwestern Maine. It attracts over 200 diverse LGBT people annually—this year from August 18-25— with all the activities you did as a kid: adventure courses, hikes, canoeing, tie dying, pottery—oh my! But the community-building environment is worlds apart from intimidating adolescent experiences.
“Camp” Camp pottery session photo Cheryl Colombo Camp’s cabins are even named for famous LGBT people, so after a day of swimming you may dry off in Greg Louganis—or you could hit the hay in Ellen Degeneres after wowing the talent show audience. Throw
Chiltern started when its founder placed an ad in a newspaper looking for gay men and lesbians with whom to share a hike up Mt. Wachusett
The next Chiltern Mountain Club gathering: 3-Night July Jamboree in Vermont Chiltern Mountain Club was started 35 years ago
in evening campfire parties, a barn dance, and even a sanctioned skinny-dipping outing (didn’t have that as a teenager), and it equals a perfect summer vacation. A sliding work/play fee scale allows payment via sweat equity, so there’s an option for every budget. (More: Campcamp.com)
Chiltern Mountain Club Celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, Chiltern started when its founder placed an ad in a newspaper looking for gay men and lesbians with whom to share a hike up Mt. Wachusett. Decades later, it bills itself as New England’s largest LGBT outdoor recreation group, with hundreds of volunteers that organize outings throughout the year for members and non-members alike. Next up: a three-night July jamboree in Bennington, Vermont. You will hike, bike and kayak
around Green Mountain National Forest—then retire nightly to seven waterfront campsites. If you like a buffet-style menu of monthly options, join the club. (More: Chiltern.org)
Easton Mountain Combine a social activist community, artist colony, and ashram of New Age spiritualists and you might have an idea of Easton Mountain. The unique, multiservice “sanctuary” started in 1989, when founder John Stasio organized a gay men’s retreat to find solace amid the plague of HIV that seemed to be suffocating the community. A decade later he identified a 175-acre resort, nestled in the rolling hills of upstate New York’s Hudson Valley, as the setting for a more fully realized vision of refuge: massage, Reiki, life coaching are all available. You can book rooms in
the guest house for independent visits, exploring the scenery on your own, or dive into diverse programming: from July’s “Gay Freedom Camp” (think volleyball and drum circles) to August’s “Out in the Woods” music festival, and from spiritual retreats to erotic workshops with The Body Electric. (More: EastonMountain.org)
Rowe Labor Day Many LGBT camps and retreats offer a recurring theme throughout their mission statements: a desire to create a safe, fun space for queer folks outside the quoteunquote traditional, party-heavy gay bar environs. (Yes, Dorothy. There is a way to have fun without tequila.) That’s true of Rowe Labor Day, too. Every holiday weekend, this year August 30—September 2, the Rowe Camp & Conference Center in northwestern Massachusetts becomes
Jul|Aug 2013 | 53
a place especially for gay, bi, and questioning men to have fun, build life skills (workshops galore) and emotional healing or awakening with likeminded guys. If you like yoga by morning, dancing by night, self-reflecting rituals and bond-building bonfires—you’ve found your match. (More: RoweLaborDay.com)
Joe’s Hideaway campground in Washington, NH
Joe’s Hideaway Opening for its first season this summer is Joe’s Hideaway in tiny Washington, New Hampshire. Joe Mcguire, the camp’s namesake, says he and his partner Rich wanted to “take the best” of what they saw at gay campgrounds around the country and create a 45-acre paradise for nature lovers: 45 camp sites (most with full RV hookups) and 25 seasonal sites. But when you’re not hiking through miles of trails or jumping in on special barbecues and pancake breakfasts, there are some other activities that will satisfy city slickers: think poolside dance parties with go-go boys, “trailer trash” drag shows, and a “Leather and Lace” party celebrating the camp-founding couple’s 29th anniversary. Sounds like their Hideaway has a happy future ahead too. (More: JoesHideaway.com.)
MountainSide Campground A campground for gay men in southern New Hampshire, MountainSide is
A lodge at Kate’s Lazy Meadow
54 | BOSTON SPIRIT
VT NH Brattleboro
MountainSide Campground
an especially animal-friendly choice for campers who can’t bear to leave the pooch at home. (Besides the tent campsites, bunkhouse and cabins, stalls and kennels are available for four-legged friends.) There are plenty of trails for hiking and mountain biking—though the site is close to cute and quirky Brattleboro, Vermont, if you feel inclined to escape for shopping and dining. It’s hard to imagine tiring of the great outdoors here, though, where everyone from baby boomer couples to thirty-something guys craving an urban escape clink red Solo cups under the stars, around the grill, or during themed weekends that encompass everything from Bocce ball tournaments to camp-wide scavenger hunts. (More: MountainSideNH.com)
Kate’s Lazy Meadows MountainSide Campground
They don’t come kitschier than this motel owned by Kate Pierson, she of the red beehive hairdo and The B-52’s fame, and her partner Monica Coleman. Located in the Catskill Mountains,
just over the western Massachusetts border, Lazy Meadows is primarily made up of suite-style log cabins, many with fireplaces and kitchenettes, that are decorated—well, exactly as you’d imagine, given they come from the “Love Shack” singer. Expect a retro sensibility straight out of a ‘50s drive-in, where campy accoutrement and quirky flea market finds share space with, say, drawers full of VHS B-movies. Great for cuddling up when you’re exhausted from hiking on nearby Mount Tremper, or fishing on the Esopus Creek behind the motel. (More: LazyMeadow.com)
GO Gay Outdoors Another member-based group that takes advantage of wired world to help outdoorsy guys connect with each other— and disconnect from technology. GO Gay Outdoors members volunteer to organize outings (hiking, kayaking, national park visits, even lawn parties) that non-paying guest members alike are able to sign up for. (Though paid members do get some
furniture for real life.
Acton 978.263.7268 Boston 617.778.0887 Cambridge 617.876.3988 Danvers 978.777.2690 Framingham 508.875.0707 Pembroke 781.826.2728 Visit our Acton Outlet for extra savings on quality home furnishings.
www.circlefurniture.com
GO Gay outdoors hikers
additional perks, like updates on occasional bar socials.) Since 1999, the online “base camp” that births these activities has expanded to encompass 7,500 members in all 50 states and nine countries; but since it was founded in New England, the local chapter is among the most active. Plus the virtual meet-up approach allows it to function year-round, so you’ll find as many snowshoe and ski trips in winter as leaf peeping hikes in the fall. (More: GayOutdoors.org)
The Highlands Inn
the middle of the outdoor activities of the White Mountains: from ziplining through the treetops to hiking trails to horseback rides and cave exploration. (More: HighlandsInn-Nh.com)
Twin Ponds Lodge If you really want to get back to nature, check out Twin Ponds Lodge, a men’s club for naturists tucked away 90-minutes north of Portland, Maine. The huge main lodge has a pool, hot tub, sauna, and game
This “lesbian paradise” in the White Mountains of New Hampshire is perfect for outdoorsy women who want to take a romantic getaway—or maybe find a future partner for sharing a tent. You’re not exactly roughing it on the resort proper: this isn’t a campground but a gorgeous 18-room inn, plus a farmhouse and cottage, boasting a fireplace for cool months and swimming pool for warm weather. But when you’re not enjoying the onsite entertainment, like the year-long Women’s Concert Series, you’re smack in
Canoeing at “Camp” Camp photo by James Berglund 56 | BOSTON SPIRIT
room for billiards and book reading; but gay campers can also make use of the 20 tent sites, 16 RV sites, and five pond-side cabins perfectly positioned for fishing. If jumping barefoot first into a clothingoptional camp sounds a little daunting, there’s a day pass option that’ll let you dip your toes into the (hopefully, not too chilly) water. (More: TwinPondsLodge. com) [x]
New aNd Improved and Coming to a sCreen near you
BostonSpiritMagazine.com
Jul|Aug 2013 | 57
SEASONAL Entertainment story Scott Kearnan
Fab Fifteen
Provincetown
25 Hot Tickets
teen Fab Fif town
Province
For sizzling summer fun in P’town, Ogunquit, and the Berkshires Every summer, Provincetown bursts at the seams with live theater and topnotch performers. In fact, it can be a little overwhelming to sift through all the options. So while we still have a comprehensive calendar of events worth discovering in the back of this issue, we’ve also curated the cream of the crop. If time is tight and ticket money at a premium, consider this your “Fab Fifteen” of must-see summer shows in Provincetown. Setting your sights north to Ogunquit, or west to Berkshires resorts? Fret not. We picked a “Fab Five” for each of those gay destinations too. Now, let the show begin.
offend every corner of the globe. We wouldn’t have it any other way. Where: Crown & Anchor. How: onlyatthecrown.com
Pornocchio
June 18 – September 3
Producer/performer Ryan Landry and his Gold Dust Orphans troupe have become synonymous with “spoof.” From Mildred Fierce to Mary Poppers, Landry’s trademark approach of crafting irreverent and queer parodies of familiar source material has made him a favorite playwright in local fringe and mainstream theatre. (This spring his re-imagining of Fritz Lang’s M was embraced by the Huntington Theatre Company.) For Pornocchio, expect the expected non-Disney take on
Miss Ritchfield 1981
the classic story about a boy and his outsized wood. Nose, that is. Where: Provincetown Theater. How: provincetowntheater.org
Kate Clinton
June 14 – September 21
June 20 – September 7
It only makes sense to start this list with one of Provincetown’s most legendary performers. Miss Ritchfield (known out of drag as Russ King) is famous for her sing-along numbers, teasing audience interaction, and video interludes. She’s also famous for her very un-PC sense of humor, so it’s likely that her new show, Sweet & Sour Richfield – Made in China, will probably find new ways to
Chita Rivera’s (see listing below) tireless energy has made her a grand dame of song and dance; the same is true of Clinton when it comes to comedy and cultural commentary. For her latest show, the SIS-BOOMBAH Tour, Clinton channels her inner cheerleader to celebrate the LGBT community — especially her
‘ pornocchio’ 58 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Patti I ssues
Well S Trung fellow baby boomer babes — in all its gut-busting glory. Where: Crown & Anchor. How: onlyatthecrown.com
Well-Strung
June 30 – September 7
Handsome hunks with tastes that run from classic to contemporary? Sounds like music to our ears. Well Strung is a string quartet (and vocal group) that manages to make timeless work from Mozart and Bach seem like natural bedfellows with trendy pop hits from Britney and Pink. Check out the bows on these boys. Where: Provincetown Art House. How: ptownarthouse.com
audiences grinning with her twisted takes on the Brothers Grimm. Where: Provincetown Art House. How: ptownarthouse.com
Patti Issues July 2 – 5
Some people have Barbra issues. Others have Madonna issues. (I raise my hand here.) The young generation has Gaga issues. Whatever the star of choice, many gay men adore a certain diva above all others. In this funny and touching one-man show, Ben Rimalower not only dissects his adoration for Patti Lupone — he explores how his relationship with his gay dad, and his own coming-of-age
experience, intersects with the story of his idol worship. Where: Crown & Anchor. How: onlyatthecrown.com
The Normal Heart July 5 – 21
Receiving its Cape premiere is this thoughtful, Tony winning show by activist Larry Kramer, founder of the Gay Men’s Health Crisis. The semi-autobiographical Heart takes audiences to NYC in the 1980s, and serves as a searing indictment of public and political indifference to the early AIDS crisis. (Plus a candid look at infighting among activists
Varla Jean merman
Varla Jean’s Twice Upon a Mattress July 1 – August 31
As his famous, flame-haired drag persona Varla Jean Merman, performer Jeffrey Roberson puts campy and comedic spins on “fairy tails.” (And in this case, yes — that’s how it’s spelled.) The glamour puss will leave
Jul|Aug 2013 | 59
with similar goals but different ideas and approaches.) See it now: next year Glee creator Ryan Murphy will release his film adaptation starring Matt Bomer and Julia Roberts. Where: Provincetown Theater. How: provincetowntheater.org
Joey A rias & R av en O
Joey Arias & Raven O in Wanted Live
July 6 – September 1
Two headliners are better than one, especially when the bill is shared by friends and fellow stars of NYC’s edgy nightlife and cabaret scene. Arias and O pair the soulful vocal styles of smoky jazz clubs (they sing standards and pop songs too) with the fashion sensibility of fetish bars. Musically and comically, it’s a match made in Hell’s Kitchen. Some might call it
60 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Matt Alber
chemistry — but we’ll chalk it up to beautiful black magic. Where: Provincetown Art House. How: ptownarthouse.com
Sandra Bernhard July 8 – 9
Her caustic brand of comedy has probably made her as many enemies as friends. (It’s doubtful she and Madonna are still exchanging Christmas cards.) But the funny lady is a pioneering member of the LGBT community, having played one of television’s first lesbian characters on Roseanne. She brings her fierce, funny firepower to a quick summer stint in Provincetown. Where: Crown & Anchor. How: onlyatthecrown.com
Provincetown Musicals Through the Decades
this one-night-only show, Peregrine Theatre Ensemble (named for the first child born to Mayflower pilgrims in Provincetown) tips a hat to hits that have played Provincetown over the years: from Bat Boy to Hair, The Full Monty to Cabaret. Included in the cast is gay spook sleuth Adam Berry, star of the hit Syfy show Ghost Hunters. Where: Provincetown Inn. How: peregrinetheatre.com
Matt Alber
July 15 & 16
Singer-songwriter Alber will roar (and coo) during Bear Week. Classically trained with a hipster edge, the Out Music Awards winner has an acoustic repertoire of touching original songs and testosteronetinged covers: including a crooning,
July 13
swoon-worthy take on Madonna’s “Take a Bow.” Where: Crown & Anchor. How: onlyatthecrown.com
An Evening With Armistead Maupin July 18 – 19
Maupin is most famous for his San Francisco-set Tales of the City series, which brought gay characters into a wider literary context. Here he’ll read from his eighth and latest City book, Mary Ann in Autumn, where characters include a closeted Mormon missionary and a transgender man saving for surgery. Expect anecdotes and audience Q&A, then buy a book for signing. Where: Crown & Anchor. How: onlyatthecrown.com
5 Lesbians Eating a Quiche July 22 – 23
Provincetown’s rich history in the live arts gets a tribute from the town’s newest theatrical group. For
Lest it be assumed that gay men have the market cornered on camp, this female-focused show serves
Martha’s Vineyard You have arrived.
MARTHA’S VINEYARD Chamber of Commerce To plan your perfect Vineyard experience visit us online at www.MVY.com or 508-693-4486
Jul|Aug 2013 | 61
Jink x M onsoon , Whale Ex travaganza
up a piping hot portion of kitschy comedy. Audience members are welcomed into the annual quiche breakfast of the Susan B. Anthony Society for the Sisters of Gertrude Stein, a McCarthy-era widows group. Cue: the atom bomb, and funny but thought-provoking revelations on sexual identity. The Society’s motto is “No Men, No Meat, All Manners.” To those ingredients we’ll add: lots of tasty double entendre. Where: Crown & Anchor. How: onlyatthecrown.com
Whale Extravaganza August 1
Chita R i v era
Talk about a sea change. Provincetown, once one of America’s most active whaling ports, is now home to a vital conservation organization: the Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies. PCCS and the World Wildlife fund are the beneficiaries of tonight’s glitter filled fundraiser, which falls during the eco-education of Whale Week 2013. Helming the stage is a fleet of RuPaul’s Drag Race stars, including Raja Gemini, Tammie Brown, and the most recently crowned queen: camp comedy starlet Jinkx Monsoon. Add host Brini Maxwell and some locally based divas like Raquel Blake and Rainbow Frite, and you have a talent pool guaranteed to deliver topnotch lip sync and laughter. Technically, whales are mammals — but as they say on Drag Race, these glamorous girls are serving nothing but fish. Where: Provincetown Town Hall. How: whaleextravaganza.com
Chita Rivera
September 7 – 8
If you’re looking for Broadway legends, the Art House is an embarrassment of riches. This summer boasts Audra McDonald, Christine Ebersole and stage-turned-Smash star Megan Hilty among the marquee names. (Even theater icon Patti LuPone swings by before her return to TV with the fall season of American Horror Story.) But perhaps the best and brightest star was saved for last, because illustrious performer Chita Rivera closes the season with her tried and true razzle and dazzle.
62 | BOSTON SPIRIT
The 80-year old icon was just honored with a lifetime achievement award by the Boston Theater Critics – so she’s certainly earned our standing ovation. Where: Provincetown Art House. How: ptownarthouse.com
Fab Five
Ogunquit
Peter Bisuito
Peter Bisuito July 9 – 10
In time for Bear Weekend comes barrel-chested Bisuito with his show My Big Funny Peter. And the strapping standup comedian will work the microphone pole at MEST Live, the new second-floor cabaret venue at Ogunquit’s MaineStreet nightclub. Peter’s big, the laughs are bigger — and
K ate CL inton
BOSTON TO PTOWN IN 90 MINUTES
CAPE
COD
FAST FERRY
TO GET TO PROVINCETOWN FASTER,
THIS IS YOUR BEST ALTERNATIVE. OOOH, WHO SAID ALTERNATIVE?
877 SEE WHALE bostonharborcruises.com Jul|Aug 2013 | 63
Ogunquit’s major gay nightlife venue just got a little larger too. Where: MaineStreet. How: mainestreetogunquit.com
Young Frankenstein July 10 – 27
When this stage adaptation of the classic, campy 1974 Mel Brooks movie came to Broadway, no expense was spared. The show’s $16 millionplus budget resulted in Tony nominated sets and lavish costumes, now used in the Ogunquit production. Brooks’ wit is always electrifying, and Frankenstein leaves crowds in – well, stitches. Where: Ogunquit Playhouse. How: ogunquitplayhouse.com
once formed a Cline tribute band.) Always features sets of 25 of Cline’s classic songs in a story about her intimate relationship with Louise Seger, a devoted Houston housewife who became the president of Cline’s fan club. Where: Arundel Barn Playhouse. How: arundelbarnplayhouse.com
‘ Leslie J ordan’
Paula Poundstone July 19 – 20
The self-avowed asexual has long been popular in gay comedy clubs: maybe for her conservative-spearing standup, maybe for an assortment of pantsuits that is second only to Ellen’s. Poundstone grew up in Sudbury, Massachusetts and cut her teeth at Boston comedy clubs. She returns to her native New England to bring Ogunquit glib observations about her politics and personal life. Where: Jonathan’s. How: jonathansrestaurant.com
Paula P oundstone
among the unique offerings of The Berkshire Fringe. Where: Daniel Arts Center in Great Barrington, Mass. How: berkshirefringe.org
Leslie Jordan August 1 – 3
The lilliputian playwright is nearly as famous for his small stature as for his flip comedy — showcased on shows like Sordid Lives and Will & Grace, for which he won an Emmy. But his stage presence is large enough to fill a one-man show that traces a long road from fey southern boy to Hollywood star. Jordan spills the details with humor and heart. Where: MaineStreet. How: mainestreetogunquit.com
Always … Patsy Cline August 20 – 31
Cline has become something of a lesbian icon over the years. The pioneering singer paved the way for women in country music, a fact not lost upon diehard fans like k.d.. Lang. (Before breaking out as her own artist, Lang
64 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Weekend OUT at the Pillow e Fab Fiv ires
The berksh
The Other Mozart July 18 – 20
It’s not uncommon to feel overshadowed by a famous sibling. But this one-woman show is more than a cursory glimpse at Wolfgang’s largely unknown older sister: it’s an extravagantly costumed look at how Nannerl Mozart found her prodigious musical talent silenced by an era in which women were unable to exercise their own creative freedom. It’s a standout
July 19 – 21
Jacob’s Pillow Festival is famous in the dance world for the caliber of its international talent. And it’s legendary in LGBT history for its founder, modern dance pioneer Ted Shawn, who blazed trails with an all-male troupe that included his longtime lover. A gay-focused weekend at the Pillow is a natural fit, and bursts with special exhibits, performances, tours and socials. Where: Jacob’s Pillow in Becket, Mass. How: jacobspillow.org
Southern Comfort July 19 – August 10
A world premiere born from the Barrington Stage Company, this stage
D ead L etter O ffice
version of Southern Comfort is based on the Sundance Awardwinning documentary about a dying transgender man in rural Georgia. Diagnosed with ovarian cancer, he struggles to find a doctor willing to care for him — yet his spirit remains indefatigable. A cast talk-back follows the July 31 performance. Where: Barrington Stage Company in Pittsfield, Mass. How: barringstonstageco.org
Mother Courage and Her Children
July 26 – August 25
Oscar winner and Lowell, Massachusetts native Olympia Dukakis stars alongside her brother Apollo in Mother Courage, a show heralded by many critics as the
greatest anti-war play of all time. Dukakis plays a canteen woman with the Swedish army who is struggling to keep business and family afloat during the Thirty Years War. It’s a far cry from Moonstruck, but striking for sure. Where: Shakespeare & Company in Lenox, Mass. How: shakespeare.org
Mark Morris Dance Group and TMC Opera July 31 – August 1
Two gay greats meet here. Mark Morris, famed out choreographer, directs the TMC performance of Curlew River. The opera, inspired by a Japanese noh play, is the work of gay composer Benjamin Britten, a colorful character famous for his great talent,
Mark Morris Dance Group
complex personality, and particular (though platonic) affinity for young men. The TMC also collaborates with the Mark Morris Dance Group in Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas. Where: Tanglewood in Lenox, Mass. How: bso.org
‘ Southern C omfort ’
Jul|Aug 2013 | 65
culture Design story Scott Kearnan photos Gina Manning
Full Bloom Out designer John LaRoche brings bursting creativity to Boston He’s always well groomed and goodnatured. He has a sophisticated style and a sunny disposition. Considering the sexy, urbane approach he brings to his Boston floral and event design firm, blueGuava Design Group, it might be hard to believe that debonair South End guy John LaRoche was raised in a small, rural town. But in fact, his experience growing up gay in the sticks actually helped LaRoche to blossom into the artist and in-demand designer—sought by affluent homeowners, hotels, and Hollywood—that he is today. “As a Mainer, we’re bred to fear the city,” chuckles LaRoche. But even as a kid, the small town boy wanted to escape to bigger places. “I remember being young and watching this Russian spy movie. One of the characters owned a beautiful nursery close to the city. It was posh and hip and
66 | BOSTON SPIRIT
cool. I thought, wouldn’t it be amazing to have this oasis just by the city where you live and work.” “My mind started building this bridge between organic elements and urban life.” That unique synthesis, natural world meets city sophistication, runs throughout LaRoche’s work, which ranges from elaborate floral design for galas and weddings to large-scale installations. Take his now-trademark annual holiday hanging at the chic Liberty Hotel: six lush, nine-foot Christmas trees—adorned with bronze ribbons, clusters of glass ornaments and glittering lights—are suspended upside down from the 90-foot rotunda of the prison-turned-hotel hotspot. It’s an haute, high-concept (no pun intended) approach only LaRoche could concoct. And like most of his work, it puts a signature twist
John LaRoche on the traditional. Yet the designer doesn’t consider his style contemporary. LaRoche, who finds much inspiration from the fashion world, likens the aesthetic of blueGuava to that of designers Tom Ford and Diane von Furstenberg: indisputably
Flower Power We poked around the blueGuava studio in the South End, and grabbed LaRoche for fast facts about some of his flowers. LaRoche places flower orders months in advance, as many varieties have limited production locales. He gets cymbidiums orchids, a staple in his work, from growers in California and New Zealand. Their relative scarcity makes them expensive: $45 to $60 per stem is common. The designer sources flowers from near and far. Donkey tail is a fleshy, water-storing plant native to Mexico.
And here it’s draped on bark from Maine. LaRoche says New England farmers often sell scraps of downed trees at flower markets, giving their dead wood new life. Timing is important, too. Anemones are a cool weather flower available in fleeting spring and fall. He likes the pops of red and purple for bridal bouquets. Hydrangeas are a good “base flower” for centerpieces, says LaRoche. They take up mass and can be accented by other pieces. But not too many! LaRoches likes monochromatic designs, and you won’t find wildly divergent, “busy” color tones in his work.
classic yet radiating romance and sex appeal. Though in all forms of fashion, styles sometimes need a little tailoring. LaRoche discovered that much after launching blueGuava in Boston in 2002. He had cut his teeth cutting stems at a high-end garden shop in Palm Beach after studying horticulture at the University of Florida. In the midst of the booming ‘90s economy, bigger was always better for wealthy Florida clients: ostentatious parties and flamboyant floral designs were the order of the day. “The energy was electric then,” recalls LaRoche, who would order thousands of orchids each week for live arrangements in the homes of multi-millionaires: philanthropists, film directors, and music producers. “The idea was always to outdo the last party.” But LaRoche quickly discovered Brahmins are of a different breed. “It’s a very different mindset,” he says. “It’s important to be known as recognized, but to be understated—not stand out as too flashy. It’s like the very brownstones on Beacon Hill. They look beautiful but
[continues 80]
is our life! and we want to share it with you... Scott & David
together 14 years married in Massachusetts 2004
Use Code SPIRITV2012 at checkout for 15% off your entire order prior to shipping. Good through December 31, 2012
www.bavarianchocolatehaus.com 2483 WHITE MOUNTAIN HIGHWAY, NORTH CONWAY VILLAGE, NEW HAMPSHIRE 603-356-2663
Culture Theater story Loren King
The cast of Pippin performs Magic to Do photo Joan Marcus
Everything Old is New Again Pippin and The Nance ignite the Great White Way The Broadway bug bit me way back in 1972, when my aunt and uncle took me to see Jesus Christ Superstar at the Mark Hellinger Theater. A year later, flush with a teenager’s pseudo-sophistication, I sent away for a pair of tickets to see Pippin. My sister and I took the Greyhound from Fall River to New York for a Saturday matinee at the Imperial Theater. Then it was dinner in an empty but still-captivating Sardi’s before we had to catch the bus for home. The elderly waiter eyed us suspiciously but kindly when we each ordered a cocktail. I was 16; Karen was 15. But he served us. Ah, the ‘70s.
Pippin Nothing rejuvenates a Broadway show queen’s spirit like a trip to Times Square at Tony season. It still works wonders for me. I stood in front of the Imperial Theater—where Nice Work if You Can Get It is running—but this time I was heading next door into the lyric Music Box Theater to see Pippin again. Since Bob Fosse’s original production closed in 1977, Pippin has not been revived on Broadway until Boston’s own American Repertory Theater transferred its production to Broadway in March with the same cast. A.R.T. artistic director Diane Paulus’ revival is full of the
68 | BOSTON SPIRIT
exuberance and energy she brought to her version of Hair in 2009 and the sumptuous staging and stellar casting that distinguished her recent Porgy and Bess. From the opening number, “Magic to Do,” the crowd was enraptured and bursting with ovations. Stephen Schwartz’s score has made believers of many who thought Pippin a slight, if entertaining, musical about a young man’s search for meaning in his life. Paulus has managed to find a gravitas in this show-within-a show, in which a group of players tells the tale of Pippin and promises magic, humor, intrigue and romance. Fosse staged it as a modern, seductive vaudeville. Paulus switches the action to a big top tent with terrific circus choreography and
acrobatics by Gypsy Snider in the eye-popping, jaw-dropping style of Cirque du Soleil. This highlights the theatricality and, at times, makes her Pippin surreal and even downright disturbing. As the leading player, the role that made Ben Vereen a star, Patina Miller is commanding and oozes charisma and, by the finale, even a bit of danger. The rest of the cast is superb: Matthew James Thomas as Pippin; Terrence Mann as his father, King Charles; and Mann’s real-life spouse, Charlotte d’Amboise, as Fastrada. Rachel Bay Jones channels the late, great Madeline Kahn as Catherine, and brings poignancy to her 11 o’clock number, “I Guess I’ll Miss the Man.” But it’s Andrea Martin as Pippin’s grandmother Berthe
Jonny Orsini and Natham Lane in a scene from Lincoln Center Theater’s production of The Nance at the Lyceum Theater photo Joan Marcus
who all but walks off with the show, which is no small feat. Paulus’ ingenious staging of Berthe’s number, “No Time at All,” melds the circus elements with the song and Berthe’s character. Without giving anything way, suffice to say that Martin makes the most of her moment. She’s every bit a star. Pippin runs through the summer and probably longer. It could be another 30-plus years before there’s another worthy revival. If you didn’t see it at the A.R.T., get thee to Broadway. It’s too extraordinary to miss.
The Nance Gay theatergoers owe it to ourselves to see The Nance, one of the most moving plays about the gay experience I’ve ever seen. It’s also running through the summer at the intimate, elegant Lyceum Theater. Douglas Carter Beane’s play is rich with broad burlesque comedy—it, too, is a showwithin-a-show—mixed with romance and pathos. Beane, whose other plays include The Little Dog Laughed, a Tony
nominee in 2007, and the musicals Cinderella (currently on Broadway) and Xanadu, delivers his most satisfying show yet. The Nance takes place in the late 1930s and opens on John Lee Beatty’s breathtaking set of a Greenwich Village automat (called Horn & Hardart). It’s a cruising spot where burlesque star Chauncey Miles (Nathan Lane) goes to pick up “trade.” Enter young and handsome Ned (Jonny Orsini), who’s out of work, fleeing his wife, new in town and eager for love. Beane and Lane, two openly gay artists working at the top of their talents, along with director Jack O’Brien, convey the emotional life of many gay men pre-Stonewall. Yes, there is self-loathing in Chauncey, a conservative Republican who dishes FDR and won’t join his fellow actors in protesting theater closings. He’s hanging onto the one place, the stage of the Irving Place Theater (an actual burlesque house in New York that was demolished in
134118_BOSCO_SpiritMagazine_JulAugIssue_3.556x9.875.F.indd 1
6/11/13 2:19 PM
Lewis J. Stadlen, Cady Huffman, Nathan Lane and Jonny Orsini in a scene from Lincoln Center Theater’s production of the The Nance photo Joan Marcus 1984) that gives him the freedom to be gay, even if it’s a caricature. Nances, we’re told in the program notes, were effeminate, stock comic characters in burlesque, usually played by heterosexual actors in the ensemble. For a deeply closeted gay man like Chauncey, the nance role is liberating. His “Hi, Simply Hi” routine, full of corny witticisms and limpwristed double-entendres, earns the ire of Mayor Fiorello La Guardia’s vice squad, who’ve been charged with cleaning up the city before the 1939 World’s Fair. It seems word has spread that Chauncey is himself gay, and gay men have been flocking to the theater and cruising in the balcony. When the vice cops raid the theater, it’s a truly chilling moment in the play. Chauncey has to stop doing his act. He can dress in drag, which is considered masquerade, but his nance is too real to go unnoticed. Beane used George Chauncey’s Gay New York (1994) for research and named his lead character after the author. Although Lane’s Chauncey is fiction, he’s based on
70 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Even Bert Lahr, an old vaudeville star, essentially played a nance as the Cowardly Lion in “The Wizard of Oz.” a number of actual “nance” or “pansy” actors, such as New York vaudeville star Harry Rose who popularized the song “Frankfurter Sandwiches” which he performed in a mincing style. Nightclub performer Jean Malin became famous for his pansy portrayals and Franklin Pangborn made a career playing pansy characters in movies of the ‘30s and ‘40s. Even Bert Lahr, an old vaudeville star, essentially
played a nance as the Cowardly Lion in The Wizard of Oz. The Nance is an ambitious play that works on several levels: there’s the heartrending love story between Chauncey, who has never had a monogamous relationship, and Ned, who loves him. Chauncey wants to be discarded by his lovers but clings to the fading burlesque stage, the only place he can be himself. It also pays homage to a vanished era of show business (Lewis J. Stadlen and Cady Huffman are standouts in a great cast as Chauncey’s fellow performers) and a moving character study. The Nance is a historically significant and emotionally stirring work, nothing less than a reminder of where we’ve been and on whose shoulders we now stand. [x] The Nance
www.lct.org
Pippin
www.pippinthemusical.com
culture House Proud story John O’Connell photos Tony Scarpetta
Caramanna’s gardens are truly spectacular and a justifiable source of pride, and respite, for the owner.
Dreaming of Summer South End Resident Creates an Eclectic Provincetown Retreat Although partners Carlo Caramanna and Don Simmons have a home together in the South End, their Provincetown property is clearly a labor of love for Caramanna. “Don calls this house my obsession,” he says with a laugh. “When I bought the house it was full ... of crap! I had a ton of yard sales to get rid of things.” The property, acquired in 2005, sits conveniently on a hill just a few blocks off the town’s main thoroughfares but high enough up that the residents are not bothered by ambient noise. While the property is surrounded by antique homes,
Caramanna wanted to remain true to this structure’s unique details. “I wanted to go with the style that was already in the home,” says Caramanna. The resulting design is a blend of mid-century family heirlooms, flea market finds, and high-end Italian Contemporary. Carammano, who recently retired from 18 years in the finance industry, caught the mid-century bug a little over a decade ago. “My grandfather passed and he had a lot of stuff from the 50s and 60s.” Many of these memory-filled pieces are incorporated into the home’s design. A combination depression glass belonging to Caramanna’s grandparents is displayed with pieces of his parents’ wedding china on the dining room’s credenza, itself acquired from Machine Age in Boston.
The integration of the pieces creates a warm, grounding atmosphere and Caramanna’s family seems to be pleased with the results. Parents, siblings and in-laws— “I come from a big Italian family,” laughs Caramanna—are frequently in long-term attendance due to the stylish and cozy vibe. “I wanted my guests to have the feeling that they were staying at a 5 star boutique hotel,” admits Caramanna. The property’s living room is worthy of any such lobby. Decorated in a palette of warm beiges and taupes, the room is a fantastic example of Caramanna’s artful blending of pieces. A vintage sofa and chair from Reside in Cambridge are paired with a coffee table and two arm chairs from a local high-end Italian Contemporary vendor. “I did the living room first,” says Caramanna. “I sewed the curtains
Jul|Aug 2013 | 71
With clean horizontal lines in the railings and Babmar outdoor furniture in high contrast light and dark, the deck area in the property’s only nod to its nautical location. [below] “I did the living room first,” says Caramanna. “I sewed the curtains myself on my dining room table.”
72 | BOSTON SPIRIT
A chandelier from Reside in Cambridge and wall sconces from Jonathan Adler continue the blend of mid-century with contemporary in the dining room.
myself on my dining room table.” Stunning pieces of art, mostly from local Provincetown galleries, punctuate the walls. A long, narrow kitchen transitions from the living room to the dining room. The room is pristine with crisp white cabinets with stainless steel appliances and rich grey countertops. “The kitchen cabinet are Ikea. The countertops... are not,” laughs Caramanna. The Ceasarstone quartz surface is virtually maintenance free, ideal for a family who cook-in frequently. A painting by Manuel Pardo, from Gary Marotta Fine Art, adds a splash of color and whimsy to the room. The home’s true show-stopper is the second floor bedroom and lounge space. Windows covering all four walls create a loft-like feel to the open room. Caramanna gives a nod to Italian Contemporary with an enormous white sectional and ottoman
dominating one half of the room. A painting by Miriam Fried over a clean-lined bed balances the space. Spanning the remaining wall space next to the bed, in lieu of nightstands, are low benches constructed from artillery boxes from the Army/Navy surplus store on Commercial Street topped off with planks of wood from a building being torn down on the other side of town. Says Caramanna, “I found the wood and knew it was for something. I just didn’t know what. This a perfect use.” A pink boudoir chair has been added for punch. The second floor also displays artwork by Jules Cannert. “My grandmother took care of [Cannert’s] parents,” says Caramanna. “When he died, he left her his collection. So I have a bunch of his work.” While known for his romance novel covers, the artist’s portrait of Eleanor Roosevelt sits in the White House. [x]
Carlo Caramanna and family
Jul|Aug 2013 | 73
The home’s true show-stopper is the second floor bedroom and lounge space [above] [right] A small desk area in the second floor loft. A hand-painted lampshade tops off a lamp belonging to Caramanna’s grandfather. The desk itself was $40 from a local yard sale and the mirror above was a $5 find.
74 | BOSTON SPIRIT
The home’s master bedroom.“Honestly, I’m color blind. I have a friend who’s a professional colorist [that helps me.]” admits Caramanna. “Antique Rosewood is one of my favorite wood tone. I love colors that play off that.”
Jul|Aug 2013 | 75
Culture Literature story Loren King
we deliver
the river
We’re excited to announce the addition of our
Riverside Terrace Boston’s newest outdoor venue with the Charles River and Boston skyline as the backdrop for your next event! This exclusive riverside location is the ideal place for your next social event with spectacular city and waterfront views, gentle breezes and, of course, delectable dining options from our Executive Chef, Brian Dandro. To learn more about the Riverside Terrace, contact our catering team at
617.806.4125
All in the Family Author and gay activist Amy Hoffman’s new book explores her own history Amy Hoffman remembers when her mother finished reading Hoffman’s 2007 memoir An Army of Ex-Lovers: My Life at the Gay Community News. “She said, ‘I used to be so upset about it. Now I can’t remember why,’” recalls Hoffman. Hoffman’s third memoir, Lies About My Family, just
40 Edwin Land Boulevard, Cambridge, MA 02142.
1.800.Sonesta(766.3782) Sonesta.com 76 | BOSTON SPIRIT
published by the University of Massachusetts Press, brings her mother and the rest of Hoffman’s large, Jewish clan to the forefront in moving and often humorous detail. It’s both a rich chronicle about several generations of Hoffman’s family who fled Russia in the early twentieth century and a personal account of how
Hoffman herself fits into that history. A longtime Jamaica Plain resident and lesbian activist, Hoffman’s three books examine aspects of LGBT life and culture. Her first memoir, Hospital Time (Duke University Press, 1997), was about taking care of friends with AIDS in the late 1980s and early 1990s. An Army of Ex-Lovers not only details Hoffman’s formative years at GCN but is also a bittersweet ode to gay liberation during the heady ‘70s and ’80, before AIDS. Hoffman says her outsider perspective as a lesbian in her Jewish family served as another impetus to write her latest memoir. “I came out to my parents in my 20s and it caused alienation between us. I accepted and respected their progressive values, so it was a surprise to find that unacceptance and conflict. Writing this book, this enabled me to reclaim a history that I felt alienated from,” she says. Over the next three decades, Hoffman’s liberal parents — both still living — grew increasingly accepting of Hoffman’s sexual orientation and LGBT activism. Several years ago, Hoffman married her partner, Roberta Stone, in Provincetown (this makes up a chapter in the book) with friends and family there in force to support and celebrate the couple. Hoffman grew up the eldest of six kids in a middle-class family in Rutherford, New Jersey, a largely Republican, gentile community. “My family was politically liberal and Jewish in a conservative, Catholic town. We were a small minority there. Growing up, that gave me an outsider perspective on the culture. It gave me insights,” she says. With chapters about her ancestors’ migration to America, stories replete with
Yiddish expressions and a section devoted to her own bat mitzvah, the book examines Hoffman’s relationship to her Jewish heritage. “There’s a tremendous amount of patriarchy and sexism [in Judaism] but there are aspects of the culture that are important to me. This was a way for me to reclaim my relationship to that history,” she says. Another reason Hoffman wanted to delve into research about her family — she used internet sources, documents from Ellis Island and interviews with her parents and aunts — is political. “There’s a lot of rhetoric about immigration and a lot of ignorance, denial and disdain from people who feel immigrants are unskilled and ‘illegal.’ You’re deluded if you think that hasn’t always been the case. My own family came here under ‘shady’ circumstances, fleeing all kinds of horror. There’s a need to understand that history,” says Hoffman, whose “day job” is editor in chief of Women’s Review of Books. She’s also a faculty member in the Solstice MFA Program at Pine Manor College. The deepest piece of Lies About My Family is represented by the ironic title. “The stories are told again and again, often using the exact same words. What stories are not told? I wanted to compare the ‘official’ stories, the ‘facts,’ to alternate versions,” says Hoffman, who’s now working on a novel set in Provincetown. Conflicting memories offer different truths. And some tales may never be fully known. No matter. It’s a testament to Hoffman’s skill as a storyteller that we’re content to make the discovery along with her. [x]
Freeze the Fat! The most cutting edge and advanced technology for laser skin treatments including tightening, resurfacing and rejuvenating
* No Surgery * No Downtime
✚ ✚ ✚
✚
Most advanced laser tattoo removal Most effective laser hair removal Body contouring by CoolSculpting® and Venus Freeze® Botox®/ Dysport®
✚
✚ ✚ ✚
Juvederm® Restylane® Perlane® Radiesse® Belotero Balance® Microdermabrasion/ Chemical Peels Friendly, professional staff Free Consultations
Just a few minutes north of boston, with plenty of free parking
Amy Hoffman reads from Lies About My Family August 24 at the Art Market Provincetown Gallery. www.artmarketprovincetown.com
ASk About SeASoNAl SPeCiAlS!
Canan Avunduk, MD PhD
MelroseMedSpa.com | 781.620.2315 * Patient experience and results may vary. Please consult with your practitioner for more information Jul|Aug 2013 | 77
Culture Dance story Loren King
Gotta Dance
Tere O’Connor Dance photo Julieta Cervantes courtesy of Jacob’s Pillow.
Weekend Out at Jacob’s Pillow offers a synergy of history and performance Jacob’s Pillow in Western Massachusetts is known for making dance accessible — the gorgeous grounds that welcome leisurely picnics and strolls rival the beauty of the modern dance moves on its stages. To make LGBT guests even more comfortable and to highlight the Pillow’s (very gay) history, Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival will again present Weekend Out July 19-21. So make a reservation at one of the many LGBT-friendly Bed and Breakfasts in the area and pack up the car. It’s a getaway rich with nature and culture — and the gay past you’ll discover is the icing on the cake. Norton Owen, Director of Preservation, explains that Jacob’s Pillow has always been popular with LGBT visitors but the dedicated weekend — now in its third
78 | BOSTON SPIRIT
year — has brought “an uptick” in LGBT interest. “It only proves how diversified the Pillow is and how many pathways there are to explore it,” he says. Owen will offer his hour-long, free, “Ted Shawn and his Men Dancers tour” at noon on Sunday, July 21. Those wishing to check it out should meet at the bell adjacent to the Ted Shawn Theatre. This is no snooze-y history lesson, says Owen. Take the cultural context away and you just get performances — fabulous though they may be. Put the shows and the backstory together and you get a “synergy,” he says, that’s unique to Jacob’s Pillow. The Jacob’s Pillow story, in fact, was untold until Owen began to tell it. (Boston Spirit’s John O’Connell went on one of Owen’s tours a few years back and wrote
about it for the magazine.) Dancer Ted Shawn (1891–1972) founded Jacob’s Pillow in 1931 while he was married to renowned dancer Ruth St. Denis. They separated in the early ‘30s and Shawn and dancer Barton Mumaw became lovers, a relationship that lasted for decades. Shawn’s troupe of men dancers was unprecedented in the ‘30s, an era in which male dancers were regarded in a homophobic way as unmasculine. In the many photographs archived and displayed at Jacob’s Pillow, handsome, virile men show off athletic-style dance moves and lounge about the grounds together. Guests at the Pillow can also learn about its history by visiting the archives at noon each day over the weekend. The collection includes correspondence, photographs, programs, board minutes, books, costumes, posters, films, audiotapes, and scrapbooks. The Archives is one component of the Pillow’s Preservation Program, which also documents the ongoing
activities of the Festival, principally on video, and organizes exhibits exploring various aspects of dance history. There will also be special photography exhibits during Weekend Out: Wendy Whelan and Miguel Anaya display dancers at work in “Shooting Stars” in Blake’s Barn; Jordan Matter’s “Dancers Among Us” will be exhibited in the lobby of the Ted Shawn Theater; and “Christopher Duggan: Inside/Out” features the work of the Pillow’s principal photographer in the lobby of the Doris Duke Theater. And, of course, there are performances. Tere O’Connor, who hasn’t performed at the Pillow in some time, returns with Cover Boy. The show is described as “part expression and part political observation” as it “explores the closeted gay experience and universal feelings of ‘otherness.’ With choreography that ranges from tender interplay to aggression, four male dancers eloquently portray isolation and connection.” Performances are in the Doris Duke Theater on Friday, July 19 and Saturday, July 20 at 8:15pm, and Saturday, July 20 and Sunday, July 21 at 2:15pm.
Ted Shawn and His Men Dancers in Dances of the Ages, ca. 1938 photo Shapiro Studio O’Connor will engage in “Pillow Talk: The Essential Tere O’Connor,” a freeranging, one-on-one conversation with Pillow Resident Scholar Maura Keefe on Friday, July 19 at 5 p.m. He will also present a Master Class on Sunday, July 21 at 10:30 a.m. It costs $15 to participate but it’s free to observe. Weekend Out also presents Ballet BC for four shows at the Ted Shawn Theater. The British Columbia-based contemporary ballet company brings a program of three diverse works: A.U.R.A. (Anarchist Unit Related to Art), an uninhibited explosion
of dance by Italian choreographer Jacopo Godani; the elegant and witty Petite Cérémonie, set to music by Mozart, Puccini, and Vivaldi, created by Nederlands Dans Theater’s Medhi Walerski; and Artistic Director Emily Molnar’s dance Aniel, set to a delightfully eccentric score recorded by the Cracow Klezmer Band and saxophonist John Zorn’s Masada String Trio. Writer-director Alan Brown will be on hand to present his new film, Five Dances (tla Releasing) on Sunday, July 21. A realistic depiction of the day-to-day life of a dancer in New York City, the film stars Broadway’s Ryan Steele (Newsies, West Side Story and Billy Elliot) in his first film role. He plays Chip, a talented 18 yearold who arrives in New York from the Midwest and must quickly adapt to the struggling dancer’s life, with its discipline, endless hard work, camaraderie and competitiveness. It screens in Blake’s Barn at 4:30 p.m. [x] Jacob’s Pillow
www.jacobspillow.org
Waterfront Views Outdoor Firepit Live Entertainment Local Art Exhibits Great Food & Drink Wedding Venue
STAY | EAT & DRINK | PLAY TIE THE KNOT | GATHER
Harbor Hotel Provincetown offers stylish waterfront accommodations, uncommonly good food and entertainment yearround. Summer, Winter, Spring and Fall pleasures await at the ideal location on the outermost tip of Cape Cod. Check in and out our 119 guestrooms and 10 suites. Sleek and stylish, many boast water views and some are pet friendly.
harborhotelptown.com Reservations: 508.487.1711 • Toll Free: 855.HHP.TOWN | 79 698 Commercial StreetJul|Aug • 2013 Provincetown
[Javier Pagan From 29] Police lets sex offenders work for them!’” remembers Pagan. Naturally, he says, the department contacted Google and the video was removed. But it’s a reminder that there is still bigotry out there looking to unjustly target even community heroes. And to that point, though Pagan says he never expected for the photo to become politicized, he hopes that attention around a gay first responder can raise some important questions about his equality as a citizen. “The thing is, what if I had died?” says Pagan. “The fact is that I’m married in Massachusetts, but get no federal benefits. Things like this are a reminder [to politicians] that this is not a game you’re playing: these are real people’s lives you’re making decision about from where you sit in Washington, DC.” And in fact, his marriage has not one hero—but two. Ironically, Pagan’s husband Pedro is a retired NYPD sergeant who helped rescue victims from the collapsed towers on September 11, 2001; a photo of him helping a victim was one of the more widely seen images in the wake of that tragedy. “What are the chances, two gay cops, now married, in photos like that?” Pagan says. The chances are certainly pretty slim. But Pagan says having a husband who understood what he went through also helped him to manage the expected raw emotions that followed the tragedy. On the Wednesday after the Marathon he took a day off to decompress, and he tuned out the Friday coverage of the manhunt for the bombers. All the bravery and first
[John Laroche From 67]
ordinary from the outside; inside, they’re massive and majestic, all the elegance and opulence hidden behind doors.” While he’s adapted accordingly, LaRoche has also become adept at convincing many of his trusting clients to challenge their more conservative sensibilities. And big brands, like the Liberty Hotel, Mandarin Oriental Hotels and HBO—for which he designs premiere parties—give his creativity full reign. But it’s not just in the design world where LaRoche works to encourage a more progressive mindset. This year he became co-chair of the Boston chapter of GLAAD. Considering that LaRoche
responder training can’t always prepare you for the reality. “Afterwards the emotions hit you,” says Pagan. “Sometimes I’d just be driving home and it would hit me: this sense of sadness. This wonderful day was changed.” But like the rest of Boston, Pagan remained strong in the face of sadness and fear. “That’s one thing about this city, we don’t give in to it,” he says. “It was shocking. It was tragic. I’ll never forget it. It’s in here,’ he says, clutching to his heart. “But it’s not stopping me. If it affected me to the point where I wasn’t coming to work, it ruined relationships with friends or colleagues, or it affected my marriage, then they would have won. And so that’s not going to happen.” So Pagan keeps his mind on the positives: from the examples of heroism he saw from not-so-average citizens, to the hugely warm reception he has received as a gay role model of police work. And armed with a quick sense of humor, he finds ways to laugh, too: particularly at himself. “I get through things with humor. And we all think it’s funny, because out of all the people at the station I am the least athletic person,” laughs Pagan of his photo landing on the cover of Sports Illustrated. A large copy of the image, a gift, now adorns the station. “I had been doing CrossFit for a year, and had just lost ten to fifteen pounds. Thank god, because the camera adds ten pounds,” he chuckles. “Of course, I said I would have preferred the swimsuit edition,” he adds with a laugh. Don’t worry, Kate Upton, your job
has also dabbled in acting, it’s no surprise that he understands the important role media images play in shaping perceptions of LGBT people. That role remains vital, he says. “Being in a liberal city or state, we may not always be paying attention to the discrimination [in the media],” says LaRoche. “I want to try and make a difference, to get people participating in the work of GLAAD and also educate them about what the organization really means.” Its work certainly means a lot to him. “There was definitely discrimination growing up gay in a small town, whether because people knew I was gay or
“ If it affected me to the point where I wasn’t coming to work, it ruined relationships with friends or colleagues, or it affected my marriage, then they would have won. And so that’s not going to happen. ” Javier Pagan is safe. But when it comes to being a role model, we’re glad to have Pagan front and center. [x]
suspected it. You can feel lonely, like you don’t fit in.” Yet he’s heartened to see how the larger culture is cultivating greater tolerance— even in his own old backyard. “There are many beautiful signs of change. I remember seeing a story online about how a high school had nominated a gay couple for homecoming king and queen. I discovered it was my hometown. It brought tears to my eyes. I was so happy and proud. It just shows that all it takes is understanding and education.” Sure, and some forward-thinking folks to sow the seeds of change. [x]
[Robbins From 51]
you, and the more people want to help you succeed in return. At any given moment I have two or three mentees who I meet with on a regular basis and help them out in different ways. It’s also my profession. My entire life is kind of oriented around serving other people in that way. Most people think of everything as a me versus them. No, no, no. Think how can I be of service. Don’t over do it. Don’t overextend yourself, but it’s such a better place to come from in the long run. A, it feels good, and B, it builds relationships. I know this is one of the counter intuitive pieces of advice that I have given many people. They say, “Oh I need a team to get Project X done. The problem is the team members aren’t my direct employees. They’re from all over the company and they have all different priorities. Project X is not a high priority for them.” [bs] Right. How to manage
sideways, right?
[SR] Yes. And I say, “Have you
ever sat down with them and talked to them and asked what
projects they are working on and offer to help with those?” They look at me like I’m crazy and say, “Well, what do you mean? That’s not even my job. It’s not my job to work in the finance department. I am marketing manager.” I’m like, “Right. But if your finance person doesn’t show up to the meetings because they are too busy, you could either complain about that and get nowhere, or you can call them up and say, ‘Hey is there anything I can do?’ And there may not be. But just calling and asking saying, ‘Okay, maybe you don’t have time for our project, so what can I do to help you in finance?’” I guarantee you no one has offered to help someone with their job before. It’s just not the American culture by any stretch of the imagination. So go for it. The worst that can happen is that they won’t want your help, but they will remember you offered. [x]
BE SOCIAL IN BOSTON Express your colorful side at The Westin Boston Waterfront The Westin Waterfront is the city’s premier destination to live, work and play. This up and coming neighborhood is Boston’s hottest scene for the arts, culture and entertainment. Allow your senses to be elevated while you relax and experience renewal on Boston’s waterfront. FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION PLEASE VISIT WESTIN.COM/BOSTONWATERFRONT
C
M
Y
CM
For more information about Stever Robbins, his work and to access his presentation on Living An Extraordinary Life, connect to www.steverrobbins.com.
MY
CY
CMY
K
[Dorie CLark From 44]
and you strategize a bit before hand about how you can best help each other. That doesn’t mean some fake sales pitch, but it means. “Wow, my friend here is starting a new business as a coach and he is an excellent meditator with 20 years experience.” That’s not something someone would necessarily know, but if I could bring that up, and in the right context, then suddenly someone would be interested in meeting my friend. That’s a fun and powerful thing. [BS] That’s a great concept. [DC] The other one that I touch on in there is that if you’re meeting someone
for the first time, you can culturally get away with a lot more in writing than saying something in person. If you’re having a meeting with someone, and you start the meeting by rattling off a list of your accomplishments, they will think you’re a jerk. But if, a couple days prior to the meeting, you send them an e-mail where you list key points of your background that are relevant to your conversation, that’s taken as a relevant information, and ends up ensuring that they walk into the meeting with a greater grasp of your expertise. [x] ©2010 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All rights reserved. Westin is the registered trademark of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates.
5
6
scene Benefit photos Marilyn Humphries
1
2
3
4
Step Up! James P. Kelleher Rose Garden/Back Bay Fens | Boston | May 16
Greater Boston PFLAG feted over 650 guests for its annual Pride and the Passion benefit in a gorgeous Hampton-esque tent under sunny skies in the Back Bay Fens. Obama for America’s National Finance Director Rufus Gifford was honored amidst a wide array of tasty cuisine selections from amazing local restauranteurs who donated to make the 2013 fundraiser a huge success.
7 [1] [2] [3] [4]
Greater Boston PFLAG President Deborah Peeples, Joanie Jaxtimer from BNY Mellon, Greater Boston PFLAG President Emeritus Stan Griffith, and Honoree Rufus Gifford
Recognizing the talented chefs who participated in the event
82 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Master of Ceremonies David Brown Joannie Jaxtimer of BNY Mellon Anne Gifford, mother of honoree Rufus Gifford 2013 Elsie Frank Scholarship winner Zachary Kerr
Tom, Wiley and John
8
[5] [6] [7] [8]
9
2013 Elsie Frank Scholarship Winners with Greater Boston PFLAG Executive Director Pam Garramone Chad Gifford, Anne Gifford, Honoree Rufus Gifford and his partner Stephen DeVincent Greater Boston PFLAG President Emeritus Stan Griffith; Honoree Rufus Gifford; Mitchell Adams and Harry Collings Liz Page of Liz Page Associates, co-chair Holly Safford; Greater Boston PFLAG President Deborah Peeples; Honoree Rufus Gifford; co-chair Joan Parker; Greater Boston PFLAG Executive Director Pam Garramone
10
11
12
13
[9] Greater Boston PFLAG Board President Deborah
Peeples with State Representative Carl Sciortino
[10] Honoree Rufus Gifford with Greater Boston
PFLAG Board President Deborah Peeples
[11] Liz Page of Liz Page Associates and Wendell Chestnut [12] Stephen, Adam and Sharon
[13] Chairman Emeritus of Bank of America Chad Gifford talks about his son, honoree Rufus Gifford
Jul|Aug 2013 | 83
scene Benefit photos Courtesy AIDS Action Committee
28th AIDS Walk Boston & 5k Run Boston | Massachusetts | June 2
A strong turnout of more than 10,000 walkers for AIDS Walk Boston and 700 runners for the Athleta 5K Run raised approximately $1 million dollars for AIDS Action Committee of Massachusetts (AAC). The annual AIDS Walk & 5K Run is the largest event held in New England to raise public awareness of the ongoing need for outreach, education, and prevention efforts to halt the spread of HIV/AIDS. Money raised from the AIDS Walk & 5K Run supports the services provided by AIDS Action to people living with and impacted by HIV/AIDS.
84 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Jul|Aug 2013 | 85
scene Pride photos Steve Lord
Senior Pride Holiday Inn and Emmanuel Church | Brookline and Boston | June 2 & 5
86 | BOSTON SPIRIT
LGBT Seniors came out en masse to dance and celebrate Pride at the LGBT Senior Pride Coalition’s 10th annual dance, with the theme “Come As You Are, Or As You Were!” as well as for the Mayor’s annual LGBT Senior Luncheon
scene Pride photos Courtesy GOAL
GOAL New England 2013 Boston Pride Boston | Massachusetts | June 8
Seventy-six LGBT officers came out in force—“Boston Strong!”—to support the Gay Officer’s Action League (GOAL) at Boston Pride this year. Five cruisers and officers from all six New England states, Montreal, and New York City marched. GOAL New England President Anthony Imperioso [center] with Middlesex County Sheriff Peter Koutoujian [right] and an unidentified marcher
scene Fundraiser
AIDS Walk New Haven New Haven | Connecticut | April 7
This year’s AIDS Walk New Haven raised approximately $10,000 on a brisk afternoon to support people living with HIV/AIDS. [right]Joe Mannetti, New Haven AIDS Walk team captain, 2013 Top Team Fundraiser and [above, center] with Mr. International Daddy Bear 2009 [left] and friend
Jul|Aug 2013 | 87
scene Benefit photos Emily Ryan
Dinnerfest The Brahmin Restaurant | Boston | April 21
Victory Programs celebrated its annual Dinnerfest Party + Auction with more than 100 restaurant dining packages up for auction at the event. More than $55,000 was raised for the non-profit.
[1] Employees from Eastern Bank
scene Fundraiser photos Courtesy Freedom to Marry Ice Cream Social
Freedom to Marry Ice Cream Social Town Green | Belmont | May 17
Belmont has been celebrating marriage equality in Massachusetts annually with a big ice cream social since same-sex couples were allowed to wed legally nine years ago. This year was no exception. Yum!
5
88 | BOSTON SPIRIT
[2] An event guest bids in a chance to win a prize [3] Victory Programs Vice President & CFO Jim Pettinelli
with Boston Living Center Director Larry Kessler
[4] Victory Programs Board Member and Dinnerfest
Committee Chair Scott Galinsky with Victory Programs President & CEO Jonathan Scott [5] Chris Gavin and Joe Therriault, who ran the Boston Marathon in support of Victory Programs, were honored at Dinnerfest [6] Lakia Mondale, Jake Caper, and Chris Casale, employees of Community Walgreens [7] Victory Programs Senior Director of Development & Communications Marc Davino with Board Member Andie Finard and Victory Programs President and CEO Jonathan Scott [8] Dinner with the famous Hat Sisters was up for auction at Dinnerfest
We Avanlance and The Dwells
Thu Jul 18
Boston | Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston
The Dwells are a vocal swirl, drenched in memorable lyrics and infectious songwriting. Influenced by noise, pop, and old-time, We Avalanche sounds like your favorite band forgot how to play their instruments. Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston | www.icaboston.org
DJs on the Harbor: Tanlines
Fri Aug 9
Boston | Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston
Brooklyn-based synth-pop duo Tanlines spin unique, danceable, and eclectic music. Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston | www.icaboston.org
Cocoa Jackson Lane
Thu Aug 15
Boston | Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston
Cocoa Jackson Lane combines gritty soul with roots and reggae. Hailing from the Pacific, South East Asia, and Barcelona, this eclectic outfit delivVisit our online calendar for the latest events and submit listings for upcoming events: BostonSpiritMagazine.com ers a raw and honest performance. Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston | www.icaboston.org
Performance Throwing Shade
Thu Aug 29
Cambridge, MA | Oberon Theater
Erin Gibson and Bryan Safi bring their popular podcast "Throwing Shade." Ready yourself for an evening of non-PC impressions, frank sexual talk and all the issues important to ladies and gays.
Joey Arias & Raven O [pictured] in Wanted Live, July 6 – September 1 at the Provincetown Art House ptownarthouse.com
Calendar General Calendar | Page 89 Provincetown Calendar | Page 90
Theater
Music Snap Four
Editor's Pick
House & Garden
Thu Jul 11
Ongoing thru Sun Jun 30
Boston | Museum of Fine Arts/Boston
Celebrate the opening evening of the Boston French Film Festival with Snap Four! Snap Four is New England's hottest new gypsy jazz ensemble. Museum of Fine Arts/Boston | www.mfa.org
Wambura Mitaru Synergy
Thu Jul 11
Boston | Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston
Providence | Trinity Repertory Theater
The theatrical event of the season: two plays taking place simultaneously in different theaters by the same actors. Audience members stay put, seeing each production one at a time. Expect wacky characters, ginsoaked truths, and high-speed topsy turvey stories. Trinity Repertory Theater | www.trinityrep.com
Led by Kenyan vocalist Wambura Mitaru, this multi-cultural group creates a hybrid sound that combines groovy tunes and catchy lyrics. Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston | www.icaboston.org
Jul|Aug 2013 | 89
King Lear
Ongoing thru Mon Oct 21
Providence | Trinity Repertory Theater
Sun Jul 14
The aging King Lear decides to divide England among his three daughters. Driven by flattery, foolishness, ambition and greed, one generation betrays another. Trinity Repertory Theater | www.trinityrep.com
The Marvelous Wonderettes
Cambridge, MA | Oberon Theater
A night of hilarious and heartbreaking storytelling mixed with hardhitting rock. Editor's Pick
The Shakespearean Jazz Show
Thu Jul 18
Boston | Paramount Theater
Sun Jul 7 - Sun Jul 28
Stoneham, MA | Stoneham Theatre
Revisit prom from the '50's and '60s with this funny, sweet, frothy musical revue featuring songs like "Mr. Sandman," "It's In His Kiss," and "Respect." Stoneham Theatre | www. stonehamtheatre.org
P'Town
Energetic and innovative, The Shakespearean Jazz Show reinvigorates and recontextualizes Shakespearean performance. Loose improv jazz music reinterprets classic text. ArtsEmerson | artsemerson.org
Wicked
Wed Aug 7 - Sun Sep 15
Boston | Boston Opera House
The modern classic musical that journeys to the land of Oz. How two friends two grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good. Broadway In Boston | www. broadwayinboston.com
Visual Arts Holland on Paper: The Age of Art Nouveau
Ongoing thru Sun Jul 7
Boston | Museum of Fine Arts/Boston
Early drawings by well-known artists such as Mondrian and Bart van der Leck as well as many fascinating artists little known outside of Holland. Museum of Fine Arts/Boston | www.mfa.org
In Conversation: Modern African American Art from the Smithsonian American Art Museum
Ongoing thru Mon Sep 2
Salem, MA | Peabody Essex Museum
Meditations on art, identity, and the rights of the individual are presented in this collection of 43 prominent African American artists. Peabody Essex Museum | www.pem.org
Jeffrey Gibson: Love Song
Ongoing thru Sun Jul 14
Boston | Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston
Gibson’s paintings and sculptures combine geometric abstract painting with traditional craft materials of his Native American heritage. His recent paintings are composed on stretched animal hides, and mixed media sculptures combine drum heads, army blankets and flag poles. Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston | www.icaboston.org
Music Sutton Foster
Thu Jul 4 - Fri Jul 5
Festival Bear Week Provincetown
Sat Jul 13 - Sun Jul 21 Where the bears are. With pool parties, clam bakes, sunset cruises and more.
Provincetown Art House
From "Star Search" to Broadway, Sutton Foster is a bright talent to watch. The "Thoroughly Modern Millie" Tony winner lights up the "Broadway at the Art House" series with pianist Seth Rudetsky. Provincetown Art House | www. ptownarthouse.com
Justin Utley
Editor's Pick
Girl Splash
Mon Jul 22 - Sat Jul 27 A week's worth of events for women, from pool parties to standup comedy shows, a wild "White Party" to a dune tour, sunset beach fire, and whale watch. Come make a splash. Editor's Pick
Provincetown Carnival
Sat Aug 17 - Fri Aug 23 The annual extravaganza full of parties, parades and memories in the making. Check out the full lineup online.
Fundraiser
Thu Jul 18
Crown and Anchor
OUTMusic Award winning singer/ songwriter, out and proud ex-Mormon. Utah native, New Yorker, activist & gay rights advocate.
Audra McDonald
Sun Jul 21 - Mon Jul 22
Provincetown Art House
TV star and five-time (!) Tony winner Audra McDonald takes to the stage for an evening of song with pianist Seth Rudetsky. "Broadway at the Art House" series. Provincetown Art House | www. ptownarthouse.com
Seth Harris
Sat Aug 3 - Sun Aug 4
Editor's Pick
Provincetown Art House
The Taste of Provincetown
Sat Jul 20
Provincetown Town Hall
Hedwig and the Angry Inch
MassEquality’s signature food and wine fundraiser features delectables edibles from 20 exquisite restaurants. Boston-based star chef Tiffani Faison ("Top Chef") will emcee and judge this year's Quickfire Challenge. MassEquality | massequality.org
Out star Sam Harris' diversified career has run the gamut from singer and songwriter to actor on Broadway, film and TV to writer, director and producer. Part of "Broadway at the Art House" series. Provincetown Art House | www. ptownarthouse.com
90 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Jason Utley at the Crown and Achor, July 18
Marilyn Maye with Billy Stritch
Thu Aug 8 - Sat Aug 10
Provincetown Art House
A showtune-heavy show starring the chanteuse whose stage and TV credits include a whopping 76 "Tonight Show" appearances alongside Johnny Carson. Provincetown Art House | www. ptownarthouse.com
Christine Ebersole
Sat Aug 17 - Sun Aug 18
Provincetown Art House
The star of film, TV and two-time Tony winner was especially acclaimed for her off-Broadway "dual role of a lifetime" as Edith Beale and Little Edie Beale in Grey Gardens. Provincetown Art House | www. ptownarthouse.com
Scullers Boston Spirit_Boston Spirit Aug 13 6/17/13 2:10 PM Page 1
Ridley Howard: Fields and Stripes
Steve Locke: There is No One Left to Blame
Sat May 11, Sun Oct 27
Wed Jul 31 - Sun Oct 27
Howard explores intense emotion in his paintings, paring down color and geometry into delicately composed portraits, landscapes, and abstractions that recall the cool psychology of paintings by Edward Hopper. Museum of Fine Arts/Boston | www.mfa.org
The first major museum exhibition for the Boston-based artist, including paintings mounted on brightly decorated pedestals using metal pipes. Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston | www.icaboston.org
Boston | Museum of Fine Arts/Boston
Boston | Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston
Editor's Pick
Mary Reid Kelley
sCullers jazz Club Upcoming Featured Performances
July 24
August 23 & 24
& THE ABELTONES BIG BAND
OLETA ADAMS
DAN GABEL Featuring
Wed Jul 31 - Sun Oct 27 Exhibition including a selection of B&W videos featuring Kelley in multiple roles. The strange scripts, sets, props, prosthetics, idiosyncratic makeup, and stop-motion animation are all of her own creation. Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston | www.icaboston.org
Fri. & Sat., July 26 & 27 The Judy Show!
Tue Jul 30 - Fri Aug 2
Crown and Anchor
The spirit of Judy Garland is alive and wel. Hysterical comedy, outstanding music, glamour and high camp are celebrated as entertainer Michael Holmes parodies Judy Garland.
Pam Ann
Mon Aug 19 - Tue Aug 20
September 27 & 28
GARY BURTON
AMANDA CARR
Boston | Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston
THE MANHATTANS
Special Discount for Boston Spirit Subscribers: $10 off 10pm show Friday nights through August 30, 2013 (restrictions apply). Use promo code “BoSpirit”. For full Calendar listings, go to www.Scullersjazz.com.
DOUBLETREE SUITES B Y H I LT O N ™
BOSTON – CAMBRIDGE RESERVATIONS: (617) 562-4111 ON-LINE TICKETING: www.scullersjazz.com • SHOW TIMES: Tu-Sat 8 & 10 pm
Crown and Anchor
The stewardess in stilettos joins PTown for a special Carnival show.
Paige Turner
Tue Aug 20 - Fri Aug 23
Patti LuPone at Provincetown Art House
Patti LuPone
Sat Aug 31 - Sun Sep 1
Provincetown Art House
From Broadway (her originating role in "Evita") to TV (next up: "American Horror Story'), LuPone is an undisputed legend. Part of "Broadway at the Art House" series. Provincetown Art House | www. ptownarthouse.com
Performance Dina Martina
Fri Jun 14, Sat Aug 10
Crown and Anchor
Dina Martina's new show is filled with a hilarious blend of sidesplitting songs, stories and video, along with seam-splitting costumes.
Jessica Kirson
Tue Jul 9 - Fri Jul 12
Crown and Anchor
Voted "Best Female Comic" in NYC, Kirston was also featured on "Last Comic Standing."
Crown and Anchor
The "showbiz spitfire" is what happens if "Rupaul's Drag Race" and "Legally Blonde" ever had a ham of a daughter.
Miss Coco Peru
Wed Aug 28 - Thu Sep 5
Crown and Anchor
In "She's Got Balls," Coco reflects on early childhood dreams, her crush on the Creature from the Black Lagoon, her love/hate relationship with Facebook, why she left her beloved hometown of NYC, and her summers spent on a nude beach. A little something for everyone.
Theater The Tale of the
Allergist's Wife
Thu Aug 15 - Sun Sep 1
Provincetown Theater
Marjorie Taub, an Upper West Side wife, is engulfed in a life crisis. Then her fascinating childhood friend appears on her doorstep and turns her world upside down. From playwright Charles Busch. Thursdays-Sundays / CTEK Arts|
SIP, SOCIALIZE & PAINT GREAT FOR A NIGHT OUT WITH FRIENDS CORPORATE TEAM OUTINGS PRIVATE PARTIES NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY ALL SUPPLIES INCLUDED
SPIRIT READERS GET 30% OFF
ANY REGULARLY SCHEDULED CLASS PROMO CODE: SPIRIT Limited time offer expires 8/31/13
163 Old Colony Ave • South Boston • theurbanartbar.com @TheUrbanArtBar
Jul|Aug 2013 | 91
/TheUrbanArtBar
Beauty | Body
Beauty Medicine Boston
Botox®, Dermal Fillers & Skin Therapies
Your Source for Equalityminded People, Places, Services and Adventures in New England and beyond.
Rejuvenate yourself with state of the art cosmetic injections and advanced skin therapies and treatments, including: Botox®. Juvederm®, Radiesse®, Belotero® and Ultherapy. Personalized, artistic and compassionate skin care administered by Advanced Practice Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, Nelson Aquino. Two convenient locations: Office of Joseph Russo, MD, FACS: 575 Boylston Street Newton Centre, MA 02459 and 1318 Beacon Street, Ste. 7 (2nd floor) Brookline, MA 617.953.6261 http://www.beautymedicineboston.com
EMERGE Spa & Salon
Boston's Only Urban Resort Destination Spa
Arts | Entertainment
For those with a discerning taste for unparalleled luxury, we have devoted an entire Back Bay building to the pursuit of excellence in beauty, health and well-being. 275 Newbury Street Boston, MA 617-437-0006 www.EMERGESPASALON.com
Auto Sales | Service
Beauty | Body
Dining | Nightlife
Home | Garden
G2O Spa & Salon
Enjoy the latest revolutions in spa + salon services
Come for a whole body + mind experience that compliments your contemporary urban lifestyle 338 Newbury Street Boston, MA 617-262-2220 www.g2ospasalon.com
Prudential Dental Seligman Dental Designs
Personalized dental care and comfortable, caring service in our state-of-the-art dental facility in the heart of Boston’s South End. 617-451-0011 SouthEndDental.com
Wellspring Weight Loss Your Weight. Your Life. Take Control.
Professional | Services
Retail | Shopping
The country’s largest and most respected network of weight loss programs, includes an adults-only residential facility with upscale amenities, state-of-the art facilities, and chef prepared meals. or call us at 1-866-364-0808 wellspringweightloss.com
Travel | Adventure
Travel | Adventure Weddings | Events
For information on including your business, e-mail Jenn@BostonSpiritMagazine.com
92 | BOSTON SPIRIT
93
Home | Garden Designer Bath
20
Bath and kitchen products, since 1945. Experience our beautiful 4,500 square foot showroom, north of Boston. 877-559-2284 www.DesignerBath.com/spirit/
Dover Rug
11
New Showroom Now Open Dover Rug & Home
Dover Rug & Home offers the largest selection of fine floor coverings and window treatments in New England. Visit their BRAND NEW location at 721 Worcester Street in Natick (RT-9) As the “Best of Boston Home 2011” recipient, their larger showroom has something for every budget. Natick, MA and Hanover, MA locations. 721 Worcester Street (Route 9) Natick, MA 508-651-3500 www.doverrug.com
Wellspring is the premier weight loss lifestyle program on the globe. – Dr. Phil, 2012
Fast Frame
Accent your home and sense of style with expert advice from our professionals. 105 E. Berkeley Street (At Washington) Boston, MA 617-542-0908 http://www.fastframe.com/storeLocations/store.php?
Pann Home Services
Family-Owned & Operated for Over 55 Years
Remodeling, carpentry, handyman, plumbing, heating, cooling, electrical & more. Residential & commercial. Serving Greater Boston & beyond. 617-864-2625 PannHomeServices.com Paula@PannHomeServices.com
S+H Construction, Inc.
S+H Construction - a multi-award winning firm - specializes in residential and historic renovations, custom home building, renewable energy, landscaping and site work. Their work is consistently seen in both regional and national home and design publications. Recently honored by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) with the 2010 Silver Award in the category of Whole House Renovation, S+H Construction was also named Best of Boston Home 2011 in the ‘Best Transitional Contractor’ category. Visit us at www. facebook.com/shconstruction www.shconstruction.com
Financial planning for same sex couples Similar goals. Different challenges. Financial planning for Same sex couples face unique challenges when it comes to financial planning. We will help you develop a plan that’s Financial planning for successful professionals appropriate to your needs—one that takes into account not only where you want go, but also how you want to get there. same sexto couples Similar goals.
Different challenges. Advice you can trust starts with a conversation. Same sex couples and the LGBT Similar goals. Different challenges. community share similar goals with other Same sex couples face unique challenges when it comes to successful professionals, yet we may financial planning. will help you develop a plancontact that’s For information, For We information, face unique challenges when it comes contact ® ® ® Peter Hamilton Nee, AIFnot , CRPC appropriate to your into account only Peterneeds—one Hamilton that Nee,takes CRPC ® to financial planning.toWego, willbut helpalso youhow you Robert S. Edmunds, , CRPC® where you wantVice want to get CFP there. President–Investments develop a plan that’s appropriate to your William Street, 3rd Floor needs—one that takes into account not 3rda55 Advice you can starts with conversation. 55trust William Street, Floor Wellesley, MA 02481 only where you want to go, butMA also 02481 how 781-446-8918 | 800-828-0717 Wellesley, 781-446-8918 800-828-0717 you want to get there. ubs.com/fa/peternee peter.nee@ubs.com ubs.com/fa/robertedmunds Advice you For can trust starts contact information, with a conversation. Peter Hamilton Nee, CRPC®
Vice President–Investments ubs.com/fa/peternee 55 William Street, 3rd Floor Chartered Retirement Planning CounselorSM and CRPC® are registered service marks of Wellesley, MAand 02481 Chartered Planning Counselor UBS CRPC areServices registeredInc. service of the of College the CollegeRetirement for Financial Planning®. Financial is amarks subsidiary UBS for AG. 781-446-8918 800-828-0717 . UBS Financial Services Inc. isreserved. a subsidiary of UBS AG. FinancialUBS Planning ©2010 Financial Services Inc. All rights Member SIPC. ©2010 UBS Financial Services Inc. All rights reserved. Member SIPC. 12.00_Ad_4.5x7.5_WF1110_NeeP peter.nee@ubs.com SM
®
®
ubs.com/fa/peternee 12.00_Ad_4.5x7.5_WF1110_NeeP.indd 1
Jul|Aug 2013 | 93 11/11/10 2:46 PM
Professional | Services Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.
Your financial needs are unique. Call me today at (877) 524.5522
Frank X Addonizio CFP®, CRPC®, CLTC Financial Advisor
20 Park Plaza Suite 465 Boston, MA 02116 877.524.5522 x 202 frank.x.addonizio@ampf.com
Awarded 2013 FIVE STAR Wealth Manager SM Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA
94
Frank Addonizio, CFP®, CRPC®
A unique and collaborative approach to financial planning. In Boston and Danvers. 877-524-5522 x202 http://www.ameripriseadvisors.com/frank.x.addonizio
Burns & Levinson, LLP
46
Leading Boston-based, mid-size law firm, works with businesses and individuals in sophisticated matters in both MA and RI. 617-345-3000 www.burnslev.com
Strategic Employee Benefit Services Kevin O'Connor — Employee Benefit Specialist
Health, dental, disability and life insurance programs to suit your company’s needs.
Planning for the needs of same-sex couples Catherine Burgess, Financial Advisor, of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, is now an Accredited Domestic Partnership Advisor.SM
Catherine D. Burgess, CFP,® ADPASM Financial Planning Specialist Financial Advisor 978-739-3927 catherine.burgess@mssb.com
http://fa.smithbarney.com/pignone_burgess/
781-431-4719 kevin.oconnor@nmfn.com
UBS Financial Services, Inc.
93
Peter Hamilton Nee and Robert S. Edmunds
Caring for yourself, your family, your community. It might not be possible without a plan. Wellesley, MA 781-446-8918 or 800-828-0717 ubs.com/team/neeedmunds
Travel | Adventure 5 Star Travel Services
29
Since 1982, 5 Star has been providing optimal travel services to our Community, and is one of the most respected and prestigious gay travel companies in the country. www.5star-travel.com
Wedding | Events Accent Limousine
90
LGBT Owned & Operated Accent Limousine & Car Service
You can rest assured that our team of professionals will deliver exceptional service each and every time. Satisfaction guaranteed. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Smith Barney Financial Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. © 2011 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC
www.accentlimo.com/spirit
NY CS 6926010 10/11
Call us for all your special event needs, and experience our Vintage Room tastings!
Seasons Four
For over 38 years, we have offered the best selection of quality outdoor furnishings and garden accessories in New England. 1265 Massachusetts Avenue Lexington, MA 781-861-1200 www.seasons-four.com
Blanchard’s Wines and Spirits 418 Lagrange Street West Roxbury, MA 617-327-1400 www.blanchardsliquor.com
DJ Mocha
Affordable great music for your party!
93
Yale Appliance & Lighting
Serving the community since 1998. DJ Mocha provides a multigenerational mix of music. Requests welcomed to customize your playlist.
Over 3500 lights, 800 appliances and 200 plumbing products on display. We service what we sell.
617-784-1663 MochaDJ.com
Turn it On!!
296 Freeport St Dorchester, MA 1-866-849-7838 www.yaleappliance.com
94 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Gourmet Caterers
Peace of mind. Now that’s a wedding vow.
This is a day when only perfection will do. GourmetCaterers’ attention to detail means peace of mind, so you can enjoy your wedding along with your guests. Whether your dream wedding is a large event or intimate affair, Gourmet’s team of innovative planners, chefs, stylists and servers will be by your side to ensure that everything is perfectly, uniquely, your own.
RELAX | RENEW | REFLECT
World-Class Luxury Guesthouse and Spa
GourmetCaterers.com
Konditor Meister
14
Konditor Meister — Voted #1 Wedding Cakes in Boston
Extraordinarily Beautiful & Elaborate Wedding Cakes & fine European pastries. Delicious Custom Holiday & Party Cakes for all occasions. 32 Wood Road (Just South of Boston) Braintree, MA 781-849-1970 KonditorMeister.com
Ptown Parties Catering | Events
Let us handle all the details so you can relax and enjoy your Outer Cape wedding, event or party. Official Caterer of Boston Spirit Magazine. 508-487-6450 Ptownparties.com
14 Johnson Street, Provincetown | 800.487.0132
www.carpediemguesthouse.com
ha c o M DJ
Going to New York? Happy Pride!
LET’S DANCE! www.mochadj.com
Swank, fully-furnished pads for business or leisure. Singles, couples, families. WiFi, amazing views, minutes from NYC.
low impact | high proole wedding and event videography
10% Discount for Spirit Readers! BOOK ONLINE Promo Code: spirit
www.NYC-JC.com +1 (201) 706-1017 Jul|Aug 2013 | 95
coda Celebrity story Scott Kearnan August 28 through 29, for two nights of big songs and bawdy banter with pianist and friend Seth Rudetsky. (They filmed last summer’s Art House show for a special, available now at sethtv.com.) We were determined to chat with the iconic actress, and where there’s a will, there’s a way. She graced us with a call. [Boston Spirit] Couples can’t
always work together. How do you and Nick manage?
[Megan Mullally] It comes
Megan Mullally The queer-fave actress comes to P’town and Boston in August On Will & Grace, wealthy wisecracker Karen Walker didn’t have the best work ethic. (If only martini guzzling and pill popping was a profession!) But Emmy-winning actress Megan Mullally couldn’t be more unlike the character she originated on the small screen 15 years ago this fall. She works constantly, with lead and supporting roles on TV (like Party Down and Breaking In), film (including recent flick GBF: Gay Best Friend) and stage (Broadway’s Young Frankenstein, for one). Much recent work has involved her main leading man: actor/husband Nick Offerman. She’s a recurring guest on his
sitcom, Parks and Recreation. They play a married couple in the newly released The Kings of Summer, and they just wrapped a Los Angeles production of Annapurna, a dramatic two-person meditation on love set in a trailer park that Karen Walker wouldn’t be caught gawking at from her limousine. On August 31 and September 2 she hits Boston’s Wilbur Theater to support Offerman’s standup show with her new band, Nancy and Beth: a quirky outfit she formed with actress Stephanie Hunt that plays rustic southern jazz alongside kookier comedy songs. But first she brings her own show to the Provincetown Art House on
96 | BOSTON SPIRIT
naturally. When Nick and I get offered something we always pass it to the other to read it—to be sure we’re not making a terrible mistake. [Laughs] We love working together! We actually met doing a play. Maybe because we met working together it has been easy to continue.
[BS] The original Will & Grace
set is preserved at Emerson College in Boston. Did you keep any mementos from the set?
[MM] I asked for the painting: the one of the guy’s face, with the green background? They ordered a Xerox and gave me that. [Laughs] Debra took her office door, and when they found out, they tried to charge us for it. I don’t think she paid them. [BS] Any guest stars you especially
loved working with? Or didn’t?
Apparently Barney Miller had a lot of rehearsal time, so he was a bit alarmed. [Laughs] [BS] Any new TV coming up? [MM] I’m working on a new show for IFC that I’ve written with a partner: Two Idiots. It’s about two middle-aged women who have lived together for years—not romantically, yet they have a codependent relationship and a terrible case of arrested development. It’s sort of a female Laurel and Hardy. It’s not a lot of snappy patter and amazing observation on pop culture. It’s very old school: classic, a lot of physical comedy. [BS] How have you enjoyed
playing to P’town crowds?
[MM] Well first of all, I didn’t know what P’town was. [Laughs] Provincetown I’d heard of. But when I was first asked, “Do you want to do some shows in P’town?” I was like, “Well why don’t you tell me what it is first!” But I’ve had a blast. The first time I was there I couldn’t believe how beautiful and charming and just aesthetically pleasing it is. [BS] You probably can’t walk
down Commercial Street without a drag queen asking you to sign a martini glass. Karen’s a bit drag, isn’t she? Did you expect she’d become a gay icon?
[MM] Oh, she’s more than a little! [Laughs] I would never have believed that. I’m not even one of the gay characters. But it makes a lot of sense. Yes, Karen was fabulous, but she also doesn’t care what people think of her. She’s going to be who she is no matter what. I think the gay community or other oppressed minorities without equal rights respond to that. [x]
[MM] I had a blast with John Cleese, Minnie Driver, and Alec Baldwin. The week we had Madonna on the show was really fun. She was really cool and professional, and it was just exciting: “Madonna’s on our show!” We didn’t have a bad time working with him but I remember Hal Linden was very unhappy with the speed at which [director] Jim Burrows Want more Megan? For the full Boston worked. We never really Spirit interview, visit boston.com/ rehearsed anything. We would lifestyle/blogs/bostonspirit just get up and block it, run through it once for the writers, then come back the next day for shooting. No actual rehearsal!
Jul|Aug 2013 | 97
98 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Jul|Aug 2013 | 99
100 | BOSTON SPIRIT
Jul|Aug 2013 | 101
Summer Selects...
BOSTON You Should Too! To request the
Summer in the City Guide email BostonS@BostonUSA.com