CommUNITY Magazine (vol 3 iss 8) Gala Special by Pride Center of the Capital Region

Past Honorary Chairs, Rudy Grand & David Siders, invite you to our store and Holiday Open House!

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*Must be presented at time of purchase 510 Union Street ~ Schenectady, NY 12305 518.374.6885

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Store Hours: Monday - Friday: 10-5pm Saturday: 10-4pm Sunday: 12-4pm

510 Union Street. Schenectady. New York www.experienceandcreativedesign.com 518-374-6885

Welcome from the Honorary Co-Chairs

pg. 5

Thank You To Our 2015 Sponsors

pg. 6

2015 Awards

pg. 7

45th Anniversary Committee

pg. 9

Honorary Committee

pg. 11

Pride Center Programs

pg. 13

2015 Masters of Ceremonies

pg. 15

Our 2015 Awardees' Bios

pg. 16

CommUNITY Magazine is published monthly except for double issues in June/July and December/January by the Pride Center of the Capital Region, 332 Hudson Avenue, Albany NY 12210. Telephone (518) 462-6138. Entire contents © 2015 Capital District Gay & Lesbian Community Council d/b/a Pride Center of the Capital Region. Reproductions in whole or in part without express permission of the publisher are strictly prohibited. CommUNITY Magazine welcomes submissions of articles & artwork of interest to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people in the Capital Region. Editorial and advertising deadline is the 5th of each month. Written work should be submitted electronically with author’s name & phone number to weidrich@ capitalpridecenter.org Opinions expressed in CommUNITY Magazine are those of the authors and are not necessarily those of the Pride Center of the Capital Region, its Board, Staff or Volunteers. Letters to the Editor may be sent to Michael Weidrich at mweidrich@capitalpridecenter.org. Letters must be 100 words or less and must include contact information (name, phone, email). To recieve home delivery of CommUNITY please send your address to sminchin@capitalpridecenter.org or mail your request to 332 Hudson Ave, Albany, NY 12210

October 2015 Volume 3, Issue 8 CONTENTS FEATURES CommUNITY Intros

PRIDE CENTER OF THE CAPITAL REGION STAFF

pg. 31

Sex Ed Corner

The Journey of ComingbyOut Joshua Radliff

pg. 37

COLUMNS Trans View 20 Years of Paradigm Change, Progress, Moving Forward by Moonhawk Riverstone pg. 34 Ask the Lawyer

Ask Mark Your Tax Questionsby

Geri Pomerantz pg. 39

Mark D. Witecki pg. 42

The Fashionable and the Frivolous Unmasked by Alan Bennet Ilagan pg. 44 Out in the Garden The Measure of Success

Judith Fetterley pg. 47

Here’s Guffman Should I Stay of Should I Go?by Patrick White pg. 49 Michael Cooks and You Can Too by Apples Michael Meade pg. 51 NEWS,UPDATES & INFORMATION From the Editor’s Desk Affiliates Calendar Weekly Events Calendar Special Events Calendar CommUNITY Calendar Advertisers Index

pg. 5 pg. 52 pg. 53 pg. 54 pg. 55 pg. 46

Development & Marketing Manager- Pilar Arthur-Snead Training and Education Manager- Lyndon Cudlitz Street Outreach Worker- Deidre Dumpson Program Assistant and Volunteer Coordinator -Jeremy Hollon Program Director - Rosy Galvan Special Projects Coordinator - Steven Minchin Office Coordinator - Oliver Peters Youth Program Manager- James Shultis Executive Director & CEO - Michael Weidrich Interns-Paola Sposito, Yi Zhou BOARD OF DIRECTORS President: Patricia K. Wood Vice-President: Jeffrey Baltes 2nd Vice-President: Paul Patel Treasurer: Jeffrey Dyber Secretary: Gretchel Hathaway Ph.D Joseph Bailey Timothy Beebe John Daniels Kimberly Eck, Ph.D Joseph Kerwin Vincent Lanzone Linda Richardson, Ph.D Immediate Past President: Ken Mortensen OUR MISSION To promote the well-being of all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer-identified people and those discriminated against based on gender indentity and expression. CommUNITY Layout & Design - Steven Minchin

WELCOME

We are extremely honored and excited to be the Pride Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2015 Gala chairs. We thank you all for your continued sponsorship of the Center and are looking forward

FROM THE EDITORâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DESK The big night is almost here! The Pride Center Gala, our biggest fundraiser of the year, is a night to celebrate some of the fantastic work

to a great night celebrating with some amazing individuals, organizations, and businesses whose support and generosity have made a deep and meaningful impact on the LGBTQ community of the Capital Region.

of people striving to make the Capital Region a better place for the LGBTQ community. All of our awardees have given so much of their time, talent and treasure to support not just the Pride Center but the entire region with their commitment to helping others. But the most wonderful thing is to see so many of our Pride Center programs reflected in the work of our awardees, from our Center Families program, to the Capital PRIDE Festival, to our Center Youth program, to our Business Alliance program, to our Training & Education Services, to our Board of Directors leadership. We are honored to provide a platform and opportunities for the community to

Mark & Patty Breslin, Courtney Breslin & Amy Robson Breslin Pride Center Gala Honorary Co-chaors

give back and serve the mission of the Pride Center. I look forward to seeing you all the Gala and being a part of the celebration! Be well and be empowered!

Michael Weidrich Executive Director & CEO Pride Center of the Capital Region 5

This year we honor these individuals and businesses working to create a more welcoming Capital Region for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer community

Marielle McKasty-Stagg Volunteer of the Year Award

Given to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding service as a Pride Center volunteer in the past year.

John Prokop Community Service Award

Given to an individual or organization that has demonstrated outstanding community service within the LGBTQ community.

Bank of America Business of the Year Award Given to a business for its outstanding support of the LGBTQ Community.

Maria Westbrook Paul Postiglione Youth Services Award Given to an individual who has worked to improve the lives of LGBTQ youth.

Michael Mitchell Libby Post Council Leadership Award Given to a former Pride Center board member who defined leadership.

Neil & Jane Golub

Nancy Burton Straight But Not Narrow Award Given to a straight member of the community whom demonstrates outstanding leadership and support of the LGBTQ community.

Planned Parenthood Mohawk Hudson -SARATOGA LOCATION-

Organization of the Year Given to an organization for its outstanding support of the LGBTQ Community.

Kenneth P. Mortensen Jr Harvey Milk Award

Given to a person in the community whose work emulates the ideals of Harvey Milk.

Capital Pride Steering Committee ED DAVIS, SCOTT LEVINE, COREY POLESEL

Special Recognition Award

Given in special recognition of service to the community and Pride Center above and beyond 7

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Karen Asher Jeff Baltes* & Gene Knapp Timothy Beebe* & David Marshal Peter Bevacqua Senator Neil Breslin Kevin Burns Hon. Ronald Canestrari Gloria DeSole & Meredith Butler Judy Disco & Barbar Disco Peter Manson & Peter Durfee Kimberly Eck* & Will VonDomme Assemblymember Patricia Fahey Judith Fetterly

Hon. Lisa Fisher Susan Fogarty Hon. James Gaughan & Keith Lee Candace Groudine Hon. Brian Haak Julie Harris Gretchel Hathaway* Joseph Kerwin* Bill Lawerence & Alan Ray Kenneth P. Mortensen, Jr. Daniel O'Connell Bobbi Palma Leslie Phelan

T. Norman Rea Robert Reineke & Jeff Linton Rev. Moonhawk River Stone Lester Rosenzweig & Tom Walling Anne Saile & Larry Myers Duncan Savage & Stefan Swicker Hon. Darius Shahinfar Curran Streett & Corbin Streett Betsy Voss Patricia Wood* & Carolyn Scofield Kathryn Zox The University at Albany Foundation Chamber of Schenectady County * Board of Directors

Albany Medical Center is committed to healing, medical education and research as well as to our community. Tonight we thank the

Pride Center of the Capital Region for its important work in the community and its unwavering support of the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.

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PLATINUM HONORARY COMMITTEE Jeff Baltes* & Gene Knapp Timothy Beebe* & David Marshall Roberta Bernstein & Viki Sand Kevin Burns Andrea Crisafulli Russo Ulysses deArmas Gloria DeSole & Meredith Butler Judy Disco & Barbara Goldstein Jeff Dyber* & Jeff Herbst Kimberly Eck* & Will VonDomme Tara Estra DVM & Susan Millstein Judith Fetterley Mona Golub & Marie DeBrocky Neil & Jane Golub Joseph Kerwin* Todd Kilmer & Kevin O'Brien Michael Mitchell & Mat Petrin Daniel O'Connell Bobbi Palma Paul Patel* & Chek Ng Libby Post & Lynn Dunning Vaughn Alan Ray & Bill Lawrence T. Norman Rea Robert Reineke & Jeff Linton Linda Richardson Ph.D.* Rev. Moonhawk River Stone Anne Saile & Larry Myers Cindy Swadba & Joyce Elliott Donald R. Thurston Michael D. Weidrich Patricia Wood* & Carolyn Scofield The University at Albany Foundation GOLD HONORARY COMMITTEE Erin M. Breslin Hon. Richard Conti & Steve Snow Hon. James Gaughan & Keith Lee Christopher Grant & Matthew McCarty Candace Groudine Richard Haldeman III & Daniel Fitzgerald Sean Hickey Leslie Phelan Congressman Paul D. Tonko Lawrence T. Waite & James R. Fleming

SILVER HONORARY COMMITTEE

Silver Honorary Committee Continued

Scott Sauer Pilar Arthur-Snead & Charles V. Snead Hon. Darius Shahinfar & Hon. Noelle Joseph* & Samantha Bailey Kinsch Joe Benny Mary Smith Joel & Deb Best Michael Boots & Marco DeThomasis Penny Smith-Bogert & Frederi Meservey Anthony Smokovich Senator Neil D. Breslin Roberta & Don Steiner Veronica M. Breslin Carol Stenger Heather N. Brondi Esq., Copps DiPaola PLLC Nancy M. Burton & Peter H. Leue Terry Tamer & Geoff Moore ME Bussey Melanie Trimble, New York Civil Hon. Ronald Canestrari Liberties Union George Clifford & Bernard Tansey Kevin Williams Michael Conti Andie Zajaceskowski Sharon Couch DeBonis Andrea Crisafulli Russo Stephen Crouchley John Daniels* Assemblymember Patricia Fahy * Board of Directors William Faragon Shelley & John Florence Dr. Robert & Randy Fox Richard Hahn Emma Willard School William Hall Mary Lou Hamlin Hon. Margaret Walsh & Julie Harris Gretchel L. Hathaway Ph.D.* Perry Junjulas Michael L. Kane Cynthia A. Kilgallon Vince Lanzone* & Michael Ryan Bryan LaVigne & Kevin Tyle Paul Leyden & Paul Murphy Eric Loeffler, Nifty Knitter Knits John T. Maguire Peter Manson & Peter Durfee Hon. John T. McDonald III Kenneth P. Mortensen Jr Lillian Moy,Legal Aid Society of Northeastern NY Dan O'Connell Cheryl Petrin Geri Pomerantz Esq. & Gwen Wright DJ Roche & Lee Helsby Steven Rosenblum Honorary Committee as of Sept. 30, 2015 Lester Rosenzweig & Thomas Walling 11

All you need is love.

The Times Union is a proud supporter of the Pride Center Gala 2015. Nobody tells the story of our community better than the

To subscribe call 454-5454 or go to timesunion.com/homedelivery

Kathy

Sheehan

Mayor, City of Albany

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am proud to support the Capital Pride Center and the important work that they do to include and represent the LGBTQA community. Congratulations to the 2015 award winners! I wish you a successful event.â&#x20AC;?

www.KathySheehan.com

Your Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer Com m unity Center since 1970

OUR PROGRAMS INCLUDE Center Youth: Support, outreach & advocacy for LGBTQA youth ages 18 and under. Programs include regional groups, Albany Youth Organizing! (AYO!) Drop in Space, HIV testing, the Center Youth Action Team, opportunities with legislators, and annual events. We support schools in 11 counties by providing training for staff and students on how to support LGBTQA youth.

Trans Pride: Promoting the wellbeing of transgender and gender non-conforming communities in a safe, empowering space through social opportunities, community building, peer support, resource sharing and advocacy.

Vintage Pride: Connecting LGBTQ older adults to each other and to the broader community with monthly social Training & Education Services : Creating safer spaces gatherings, special events, educational and leadership and services for LGBTQ people in the Capital Region by opportunities, and celebrating their resilience and offering comprehensive, high quality, individualized community contributions. trainings for mental health and medical providers, Business Alliance: Business Alliance members gain colleges, businesses, organizations, and any entity exclusive visibility, ways to leverage customer allegiance & seeking to improve services for LGBTQ individuals and access to a dedicated consumer base. Monthly Mixers to communities. meet up with friends, distribute business cards, and make Center Fam ilies: Helping LGBTQ headed families in the Capital Region achieve their goals of building and sustaining happy and healthy families through providing ongoing social and community building opportunities.

Center Support: Offering low-cost counseling, and peer support groups such as Men’s Group, Women’s Group, and Family and Friends of LGBTQ people. Also providing comprehensive and culturally specific referrals for LGBTQ individuals. Rainbow Café has been open since 1971 and is an open community space for recurring events such as Game Nights & Supper Sunday. Center Arts: Our Romaine Brooks Gallery is a creative space and outlet for LGBTQ artists and themed work. LGBTQ Book Club also meets monthly to discuss works written by LGBTQ authors.

332 HUDSON AVE. ALBANY, NY 12210



important business contacts. .

Capital PRIDE: As the producer of the largest annual Capital Pride celebration in Upstate NY, the Pride Center brings a record breaking 30,000 festival and parade attendees, and 35,000 people celebrating throughout PRIDE week each year. Com m UNITY Magazine: The Pride Center’s monthly publication highlights & informs the larger Capital Region on local LGBTQ news and events as well as supports other LGBTQ organizations. Over 3,000 avid readers reached per month across 10 counties. CapitalPrideCenter1 CapitalPrideCtr

518-4 62-6138



W W W .CAPITALPRIDECENTER.ORG

Our m ission is to prom ote the w ell-being of all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer identified people and those affected by discrim ination based on gender identity and expression. 13

The Ultimate Fall Planning Guide Your Guide for Everything in the Capital Region! FALL FAIRS & FESTIVALS • APPLE ORCHARDS & PUMPKIN PATCHES THINGS TO DO • NIGHTLIFE • EVENTS • GIVEAWAYS

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2015 Pride Center Gala Masters of Ceremonies organization. He is also a LEAD NY Fellow, graduating from the Cornell University program in 2015. In addition, Steve currently serves on the Board of Directors and is past president of the Alliance for Positive Health, and he also volunteers his time on the Pride Center’s marketing committee and the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York’s farmer outreach committee.

Steve Ammerman grew up in a small town in Kansas, but has called the Capital Region home for nearly two decades. He graduated from the University of Kansas with a Bachelor of Science degree in journalism, majoring in Broadcast News. He then spent the next 20 years working in television news as a reporter and anchor, including 15 years at News10 in Albany. In the spring of 2012, a new opportunity opened up and Steve joined New York Farm Bureau as its Public Affairs Manager handling statewide communications for the

Jaye McBride is an upstate New York comedian who’s been featured all across the country. She’s a regular at the Albany Comedy Works and can be seen emceeing or

performing at comedy showcases and burlesque shows throughout New York State’s Capital District. Being transgender doesn’t just mean she’s a great target at roasts; it has also given her a uniquely dry and self-deprecating sense of humor that will leave the audience laughing and feeling bad about it. Jaye has performed in New York, Las Vegas and LA and opened for comedians such as Bobcat Goldthwait, Robert Kelly, Gilbert Gottfried and others. She has also appeared in the Boston Comedy festival and SheDevil festival and can be heard weekly on the Planet Funny radio show on WVCR and iheart radio.

2015 Pride Center Gala Video by Aaron Holbritter Graphic Design by Karen Pacelli

WHAT WHAT IS YOUR IS YOUR LEGACY, LEGACY, YOUR YOUR VISION VISION FORFOR THE THE FUTURE? FUTURE?

Pride Center Legacy Society Legacy Society

Because Because of your of your on-going on-going and continued and continued support, the Pride Center has been a valuable support, the Pride Center has been a valuable part part of soofmany liveslives in the Region so many inCapital the Capital Region Community. Community.

ANDAND WITH WITH A LITTLE A LITTLE PLANNING PLANNING TODAY, TODAY, MAKE A DIFFERENCE BIG DIFFERENCE IN THE YOUYOU CANCAN MAKE A BIG IN THE LIVES OF OTHERS TOMORROW. LIVES OF OTHERS TOMORROW.

GiveGive a giftato gift the toPride the Pride Center Center through through youryour Will,Will, Trust, or other Estate Plan.Plan. Trust, or other Estate

For more For more information, information, call (518) call (518) 462 -462 6138 -2101 15

MARIELLE MCKASTY-STAGG

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD Marielle began volunteering with the Pride Center in 2014, after a little bird told her that the Center could use a champion for a Queer Families Program. Marielle is a sucker for little birds. Marielle feels that the social contexts in which we live affect our health and well-being and that access to support programs and healthcare should be a given. Building and sustaining healthy and happy families is right up her alley. Currently, Marielle serves as the VP of Human Resources overseeing HR and Volunteer Programs at Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood in Albany. Marielle flies her rainbow flag in the suburban wonderland of Voorheesville, New York with her much better half, Nicole, and two fierce divas, Gia (age 4) and Ruby (age 2 months). Collectively, they are an endless source of joy, laughter and grey hair. Marielle enjoys impromptu family dance parties and wandering through the woods. Marielle doesn’t know what spare time looks like, but she feels lucky every single day.

JOHN PROKOP

COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD When the AIDS epidemic hit in 1980s, John Prokop began to volunteer with Our Brothers’ Keepers Foundation. OBKF, an all-volunteer non-profit organization from 1987 to 2015, provided funding to organizations helping people living with HIV. Joining the Board of Directors in 1999, he served as President, VP, and Secretary as well as Chair of the 20th and 25th Anniversary Galas. John was born and raised in Schenectady. A graduate of SUNY at New Paltz, he capped a 32 year career at The Gazette Newspaper in Schenectady as Major Accounts Manager. John currently works for Albany Med’s division of HIV Medicine as Education and Outreach Coordinator.

MICHAEL MITCHELL

LIBBY POST COUNCIL LEADERSHIP AWARD Mike Mitchell is a Spanish teacher, Coordinator of the Bethlehem Central Lab School and advisor for the Gay Straight Alliance at Bethlehem High. The school actively supports Ally Week and The Day of Silence each year. Mike believes that students and educators should be able to be open and honest about their gender identity. Mike and his fiancé, Mat Petrin, live in Albany. In addition to teaching Spanish, Mike is a public education advocate. He also enjoys home improvement projects, cooking, travel and playing the guitar. Outside of the classroom, Mike has served on the Board of Directors and has been the Board Secretary for the Pride Center. In this capacity he has raised thousands of dollars for the Center online, at special events and by hosting house parties. 16

MARIA WESTBROOK

PAUL POSTIGLIONE YOUTH SERVICE AWARD Born in Spencer, West Virginia and raised in Wanakena, NY. Maria Westbrook currently resides in Glenville, NY with her wife, Amelia and their three wonderful children. Maria completed her undergraduate degree in Business Management from Russell Sage College and earned her Master’s in Social Welfare from SUNY Albany. Since May 2014, Maria has been the Social Work Facilitator for the Pride Center of the Capital Region’s Schenectady Chapter of Rainbow Nights. Maria is an active volunteer with Center Youth programs including chaperoning APROM, being an incredibly hilarious, supportive staffer for YOUTH IN POWER Summer Camp and one can always find Maria marching with her Youth in the Albany Pride Parade. Currently, Maria is a School Social Worker at Watervliet Junior-Senior High School where she is the faculty advisor of the school’s Gay-Straight Alliance. Maria enjoys spending time with her family, sports, and reading when the time allows it.

NEIL & JANE GOLUB

NANCY BURTON STRAIGHT BUT NOT NARROW AWARD A virtual dynamic duo, Neil and Jane are devoted to excellence - in the workplace, in the community and at home. Each of them has received an abundance of accolades for their individual contributions of leadership and philanthropy, but it is their collaborative efforts that so uniquely distinguish them. Together, they have dedicated themselves to numerous organizations and causes that inspire positive change and instill hope, including the Anti-Defamation League’s “A World of Difference” and “Be An Ally” anti-prejudice and antibullying programs - which they’ve supported since 1986 - and which aim to foster a next generation that values mutual respect and aspires to a world without hate.

BANK OF AMERICA

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD Bank of America Merrill Lynch is one of the world's leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. Our heritage isn’t just about history; it’s about people and their stories. The stories that shape who we are tell where we’ve been and show where we’re going. At Bank of America, our history covers more than two centuries and includes people who helped to shape life as we know it in this country. The stores of our history and heritage connect us to some of the greatest achievements and advancements of all time and we’re proud to share them. Our company serves approximately: 48 million consumer and small business relationships with 4,800 retail financial centers, 16,000 ATMs and award-winning online banking with 31 million active users and 18 million mobile users. Bank of America Merrill Lynch is among the world's leading wealth management companies and is a global leader in corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. We offer industry-leading support to approximately 3 million small business owners through a suite of innovative, easy-to-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and more than 35 countries. 17

PLANNED PARENTHOOD MOHAWK HUDSON SARATOGA LOCATION ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR AWARD

Joyce Elliott is chair of the Planned Parenthood Mohawk Hudson Board of Directors. She is truly proud of the PPMH initiative to establish transgender services at the Saratoga Center this year. Joyce retired from SUNY Empire State College in 2014, after a lengthy career as a dean, academic vice president and faculty member in sociology and women’s studies. She and her partner Cindy Swadba are long-time Partners in Pride with the Pride Center and active with Saratoga Pride and local Democratic Party politics. (picturedJoyce Elliot)

KENNETH P. MORTENSEN, JR. HARVEY MILK AWARD

Ken has lived in the Capital District for his entire life. His career has been in the plumbing and heating wholesale business. Ken is in his 38th year at Security Plumbing & Heating Supply in Albany. He works in Sales Management. He has a home in Albany. Ken enjoys gardening, travel, reading, working around his home, volunteering, attending cultural events, old cars, and spending time with friends. Ken came out in 1992 and joined the Two Rivers Outdoor Club, where he was involved with Membership , Activities and as an Executive Board Member. In 1995 Ken joined Our Brothers Keeper Foundation, and held the offices of Board Member, Vice President and President. In 2001 he started his involvement with the Pride Center. Ken has served as President, Vice President and as Co-Chair of the Development Committee. Ken looks forward to many other opportunities in the future.

CAPITAL PRIDE STEERING COMMITTEE ED DAVIS SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD

After 23 years working for a local school district, Ed retired 5 years ago, and it provided him with ample time to focus on the Capital PRIDE Parade. Having been Chair of the Parade Committee since 2008, Ed commits time to it year round, so retirement has offered him more time to give it his all. Ed’s motivation to volunteer comes from the fact that he and his wife have two daughters, both of whom are lesbians, and who have been out for 20+ years. While the Davises have always been supportive of their daughter and their partners, and friends, volunteering through the PRIDE Committee allows Ed to support and foster a sense of community and Pride in people who may not have had much of that in their life. Ed’s goal, as well as the other Steering Committee members, is to make each Capital PRIDE Festival and Parade better than the one before. He thinks they have been able to do that in the past, and pledges to do just that in the future. 18

CAPITAL PRIDE STEERING COMMITTEE COREY POLESEL SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD

Corey is 52 years old. He has spent most of his life in the capital region though he grew up part in NJ and part in Italy. He had a career as a Campus Public Safety Officer and is now a school bus driver in his home town. He graduated BS in Physics from SUNY Albany in 1993 and with a degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice from Saint Rose in 2009. Graduated from Zone 5 Law Enforcement Academy CPSO School in 2009. As a gay transman Corey felt it was important to participate in the community. He began several years ago volunteering for PRIDE and for other tasks at the center. He has been delivering CommUNITY Magazine for several years to outlying communities. He has been on the steering committee for PRIDE for the past 7 years as the Festival, co-chair. He volunteered for the trans- protocol committee spearheaded by IOOV. From this initiative he has taught Police Officers how to respectfully interact with transgender individuals. In his free time Corey enjoys writing, gardening, Karate, hiking and camping.

CAPITAL PRIDE STEERING COMMITTEE SCOTT LEVINE SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD

Scott Levine is the Entertainment Chair of the Capital PRIDE Steering Committee and Manager of Waterworks Pub, Albany's largest LGBTQ bar and dance club. After graduating from Shaker High School and earning a degree in Computer Science, Scott began working in Data Analysis, Systems Development and Project Management for Empire Blue Cross & Blue Shield, The Negotiators, Inc., and The Healthcare Association of New York State, before moving his focus towards the LGBTQ community. For over a decade, Scott has worked for Waterworks Pub managing and developing their information technology, marketing & business strategies, event planning and operations. In addition to his work responsibilities, Scott has spent his personal and professional time volunteering, fundraising, and organizing various charity events for The Pride Center of the Capital Region, In Our Own Voices, the AIDSWalk and the Albany Damien Center, to name a few. As Capital PRIDE Entertainment Chair, Scott has secured corporate sponsorships and booked the entertainment for the Capital PRIDE Festival for 9 years, raising over $200,000 and featured artists such as Taylor Dayne, Debbie Gibson, Thelma Houston, Tiffany, CeCe Peniston and Melissa Etheridge. Scott has lived and worked in the Capital Region for as long as he can remember. He is currently residing in Downtown Albany with his partner Terence, where they enjoy spending time with friends, traveling, boating and hiking.

to all of the Pride Ce

Thank you for your unwaivering supp

ALBANYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GAY AND STRAIGH

enter Gala Honorees!

port of Albanyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s LGBTQ community.

HT FRIENDLY HOCKEY TEAM

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Proud supporter of the

2015 Pride Center Gala

Be yourself at Planned Parenthood facebook.com/ppmhaction www.plannedparenthood.org/ppmh

â&#x20AC;&#x153;A heart is not judged by how much you love; but by how much you are loved by others.â&#x20AC;? -Wizard of Oz

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF THE 2015 AWARDEES!

Serving the community for over 30 years, the mission of the Alliance for Positive Health (formerly the AIDS Council of Northeastern New York) is to reduce the impact and incidence of HIV/AIDS and other serious medical and social conditions. To find out more about our services and how we can help you, please visit:

allianceforpositivehealth.org

Heartfelt Congratulations to all 2015 Awardees

Congratulations to all the

2015 Awardees

Thank You for helping support our community

OEHC is proud to support the 2015 Pride Center Gala OEHC is a Center of Excellence dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of occupational and environmental illness and injury. We are pleased to provide New York’s valuable labor unions, employees, and employers with services such as: • Comprehensive medical evaluations • OSHA-mandated medical surveillance exams

• Worksite evaluations • Health and safety training and workshops

To learn how we can serve your occupational health needs, please contact us at 518-690-4420 or 1-800-419-1230. www.occmedgroup.com 1873 Western Avenue - Albany, NY 12203

OEHC is a division of Group Health Incorporated (GHI), an EmblemHealth company.

CONGRATS 2015 AWARDEES

Congratulations

to all the 2015 awardees

BeCLEAR provides health resources & helps LGBTQ individuals access health & wellness services.

Project HOPE offers free & confidential HIV/STI testing, risk reduction counseling & referrals for support and services to gay, bi and other men who have sex with men.

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Community Intros: Paola & Yi “The Pride Center is pleased to introduce our Center Support MSW interns for the 2015-2016 year, Paola Sposito and Yi Zhou! Center Support enables the Pride Center to offer free to low cost counseling to community members who are most impacted by the difficulties of navigating complex systems that are often non-affirming of LGBTQ identities. This program also benefits aspiring social workers in that it offers unique and targeted clinical training in order to expand the network of culturally competent and affirming providers in our area. Yi and Paola have already demonstrated a firm commitment to the mission and vision of the Pride Center. We are excited and fortunate to welcome them into our Pride Center family! Here are 5 facts about Yi and Paola. Read more about them at www.capitalpridecenter.org in our about section!”

5 Paola Facts

INTERNATIONAL CLUB FOUNDER: I interned at Gender & Sexuality Resources Center during my undergrad and founded the first international LGBTQ students group U.M.R.G at SUNY-Albany FROM THE LAND OF LONGEVITY: I am from Ru Gao, Jiangsu, China, a well-known town of longevity.

Websites

Scarleteen.com Reidaboutsex.com

Podcast

“Sex Out Loud” with Tristan Taormino, on iTunes “Why Are People Into That?” with Tina Horn, whyarepeopleintothat.com

Conferences

“From Abortion Rights to Social Justice,” Hampshire College, April 8-10, 2016 “National Sex Ed Conference,” Center for Sex Education, December 9-11, 2015

Video Series

CELEBRATES DIVERSITY IN MANY WAYS: I also eating all kinds of delicious food. ROCKS A "LAZY SONG": i'm a big fan of karaoke.

WANTS TO TRAVEL OUTSIDE OF THE COUNTRY: My ultimate goal is to backpack through Europe when I finish my MSW (Italy and England are top on my list).

http://www.capitalpridecenter. org/about-us/staff/paola-sposito

Check out these LGBTQ-relevant resources for continuing your sex education at any age!

Girl Sex 101, by Allison Moon Trans Bodies, Trans Selves, edited by Laura EriksonSchroth

STALKS THE TWO LIVING MEMBERS OF THE BEATLES: I have seen Paul and Ringo five times each. I will see Ringo and his All Starr Band for the sixth time on October 24th.

Read Paola's bio online:

Lyndon Cudlitz

Books

IS A DOUBLE MAJOR CANDIDATE: I am pursuing my Master’s degrees in both Social Work and Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies at University of Albany.

LOVES ANIMALS: I have two cats, Figaro and Meesh. Sometimes I think they love me back?

5 Yi Facts

HAS A BACHELOR’S OF ARTS IN PSYCHOLOGY AND ENGLISH: I received my BA from Russell Sage College in 2014 (I was a Purple Cow).

HAS YET TO GROW OUT OF HER OBSESSION WITH HARRY POTTER: I took a Harry Potter Psychology class while I was working on my undergraduate degree, which only intensified my love for Rowling’s creativity and writing.

SEX ED CORNER

teU.com

“Sex Ed the Saga” by Forward Together Youth, on YouTube “Passionate U,” Passiona-

Local Organizations

Read Yi's bio online: http://www.capitalpridecenter. org/about-us/staff/yi-zhou

Pride Center – We offer sex ed workshops for LGBTQ groups of all ages! In Our Own Voices – “Sexversations: For Women Who Love Women” Alliance for Positive Health – “Real Talk” for youth and “Be Clear” for adults 31

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0214-03393

A free program addressing legal issues in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities

SATURDAY OCTOBER 17, 2015 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

FREE AND OPEN TO ALL For more information or to volunteer, visit albanylaw.edu/LGBTlawday or email pbarn@albanylaw.edu

Free legal assistance on issues such as: • Name changes • Adoptions • Child custody • Immigration • Employment discrimination • Gender Marker changes • Upgrading Dishonorable Discharges under Don’t Ask Don’t Tell

80 new scotland avenue, albany, new york 12208 tel: 518-445-2326

www.albanylaw.edu

TR A NS* V IEW

20 years of paradigm change, progress, and moving forward by

Imagine the Trans World of 1995. Can we even go back there and remember what it was really like back then? That short eye blink ago? It would be 7 years before this column was begun, and to say that the trans community was in it’s infancy is not an exaggeration. I would suggest that it was about to be birthed. I have a very old, well worn copy of AGEIS NEWS, quarterly, #4, June 1995. I’ve used it for over 20 years now in my trainings and educational work. The front page editorial is by the newsletter owner and editor, Dallas Denny, M.A., who if you do not know her work, shame on you for she is one of our community’s founding members and a brilliant and persistent voice for ethical, moral and, yes, radical well being of transgender folks. This particular editorial was entitled, “The Paradigm Shift Is Here!”. Paradigm shift? Here? I’m betting many readers didn’t even know we’d had one. In the editorial, Dallas begins with a mention of Thomas Kuhn, the famous scientist and author of the idea of how paradigm shifts happen in science. Old models of looking at or understanding a phenomena fall away, not so much because we dismantle them, but because new more effective models spontaneously arise and as people begin to adhere to the new model, the old falls away into obscurity. An easy example of this would be as Dallas states “the Copernican revolution, in which the realization that the earth revolves around the sun, rather than vice-versa.” Another is the old discovery that the world is not flat but round.

what came round in the transgender community that created a round world for us, that changed what we revolved around? 34

Moonhawk RiverStone

So, what came round in the transgender community that created a round world for us, that changed what we revolved around? The paradigm shift happening in the mid 90’s was the simple idea that gender was not a straight jacketed binary, but an infinitely variable continuum, and that transgender people were not the problem, but a disordered, and pathological society was the problem. No longer were we tied to the idea that it was the transgender person’s pathology that was the problem, but instead, it was the limited, prejudicial society that was the problem. Dallas compassionately does not ascribe blame to the medical and mental health professionals adhering to the old paradigm, instead insists they were operating from what they knew, the old paradigm. Dallas states: “Suddenly, it is not they [trans people]who are aberrant, but a society which is unable to deal with them.” 20 years later, we’re still struggling with that as we see parents sensationalistically attacking transgender children’s right to use the bathroom of their correct gender (Shenendahowa, NY and in Hillsboro, Missouri for Lila Perry). The paradigm shift that has happened as I devoted last month’s column to, is that Title IX of the Federal Education Law stipulates that transgender youth get to use the bathroom of their correct gender, and those uncomfortable with that get to use a separate facility. It seems from the latest news (9/5/15) from Hillsboro that they have not figured that out yet. But in 1995, the transgender person ALWAYS got the separate bathroom, now it’s the policy of the land that the non transgender person gets the separate restroom. 20 years into this paradigm shift, we no longer see it, no longer think that there was a time before that. That is, until the Hillsboros of the world show us just how much work still needs to be do Can you imagine what it might have been like for Chaz Bono or Caitlyn Jenner to have publicly transitioned in 1995? I can, and circus freak only begins to paint a picture of what would have happened. Instead, today, both Chaz and Caitlyn have been met with overwhelming respect and affirmation for their courage to so publicly transition. Things have changed for good,

and there’s no going back now. You can’t make the round world flat. How far has this paradigm change reached? To the White House, to the Pentagon, to the sanctuaries of many diverse faiths, to the homes and schools and workplaces of our towns and cities. No, it’s not perfect, but this paradigm shift is an unrelenting foment upon the gender binary, where places such as Target Stores (and others) now have gender neutral toy aisles where children can choose what items they would like for play, and not be “genderized” by their choices. Instead we now make gender jokes to pregnant people about the “Is it a boy or a girl?” question. The response, “As far a I know for today, it’s a ___, but that could change once we meet the baby.” October 11th is the 27th National Coming Out Day, and it is important to note that what came out of the closet in June 1995 has not gone back in for a moment, but has become an integral part of American life as surely as baseball. Gender diversity is here to stay, and in so many places we’re no longer questioning that, but embracing it. There is no longer just one strict rigid way to be transgender (or rather in 1995 words: transsexual), but many, and how we language things in Trans Land has totally changed as well. Where are we 20 years later? Every where. One of our movement’s most brilliant decisions was to go after policy rather than legislative change at the federal level when President Obama was elected. It was a brilliant solution, and has brought transgender people unimagined progress. Every progressive movement for civil and human rights benefits from the ones that came before them, and learns from their successes and mistakes. Transgender people in 20 years have achieved what it took the LGB movement 50 years to accomplish, and we’re still rolling forward. Just the last week of August 2015, the Health and Human Services Administration issued a statement clarifying the Affordable Care Act’s non discrimination language and confirming that all health insurance policies in America must be fully inclusive of transgender

The paradigm shift happening in the mid 90’s was the simple idea that gender was not a straight jacketed binary, but an infinitely variable continuum, and that transgender people were not the problem, but a disordered, and pathological society was the problem. health care. Many of us working day to day in this movement thought that moment was still a decade off. But it’s here. Today. Now. WOW! Let’s hear it for the paradigm shift, and for Dallas’ foresight to name it and claim it and articulate it. I will say here Dallas is a good and close friend, but more dearly as fine a colleague as they come. Go and see her amazing work online at www.dallasdenny.com and be treated to a history tour of our movement, by someone who was not only making the history but also writing it down as it happened. Like all paradigm shifts, we might think today, “Well, that’s obvious--transgender people are fine, it’s the society that’s _______ up.” because it seems just so blatantly obvious. But that was NOT AT ALL obvious in June 1995 and Dallas was challenged intensely by the boldness of her declaration and her vision. She stood her ground because she was right after all, and the rest, well, that’s history! Until next time...T

TRANS VIEW© #137

Rev. Moonhawk River

Stone of Riverstone Consulting is an Interfaith Minister, transgender activist, writer, educator, consultant, keynote speaker and psychotherapist in private practice for over 25 years with experience and extensive expertise in all aspects of transgender policy and health.

Trans Pride Trans Pride

The Trans Pride program is dedicated to empowering trans* and gender non-conforming people and their allies through social opportunities, community building, resource sharing, and advocacy.

The Trans Pride program is dedicated to emDiscussion Group Meet & Greet powering trans* and gender non-conforming discussion group informal social evening peopleA and their allies throughAnsocial opportufocusing on issues for trans* people to nities, community building, resource sharing, important to trans* and advocacy. connect and build people and community. 1st Tuesdays, 7-9PM

community. 3rd Tuesdays, 7-9PM

The Discussion Group and Meet & Greet are open to all trans* people and those questioning their gender, ages 18+. Trans* denotes a wide range of people including those who identify as transgender, transsexual, two-spirit, genderqueer, gender-non-conforming, questioning their gender, and more. We use the asterisk to help us remember that trans* identities and experiences are diverse, while still sharing a common thread. All meetings take place at the Pride Center, 332 Hudson Avenue, Albany

P: 518.462.6138 PROGRAMS@CAPITALPRIDECENTER.ORG www.capitalpridecenter.org

Discussion Group - A discussion group focusing on issues important to trans* people and community. 1st Tuesdays, 7-9PM Meet & Greet - An informal social evening for trans* people to connect and build community. 3rd Tuesdays, 7-9PM

The

SOGI

Project

The Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity Project at UAlbany University at Albany School of Social Welfare, Downtown Campus, Husted Amphitheater, 135 Western Ave, Albany NY

Fall 2015 Events Schedule

Clinical Practice with Transgender Adults and their Families, Wednesday, October 14th, 9AM-4PM

This workshop will explore the clinical issues impacting transgender, gender non-conforming, and queer identified individuals, couples, and families, within a systemic perspective. We will outline definitions and language within the context of cultural communities, the process of identity development, and the role of discrimination and bias in the psychological experience of trans people and their families. We will also examine the expanding options for identity expression, including genderqueer, and fluid identities and the role of the psychotherapist in evaluation for medical treatment. The Standards of Care developed by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health will be reviewed, as will the changes in the DSM-5. Medical treatments and referral processes will be outlined. The cost of each workshop is $75 for professionals/$10 students. (Scholarships available) *Space is limited, so please RSVP as soon as possible.

Working with Gender Nonconforming Children and Transgender Youth, Wednesday, November 4th 9AM-4PM This workshop is an overview of sexual identity and gender expression focusing on understanding the needs of gender nonconforming children and transgender youth. We will explore the differences between sexual orientation and gender identity and the developmental process youth experience who recognize gender identity struggles. An overview of the issues impacting families of trans youth with special attention to parental education, support, and school-related advocacy will be addressed. Lifecycle issues including social transition for pre-pubertal children who express gender dysphoria, hormonal treatment to assist adolescents beginning transition, and the ethics of treating youth utilizing the Standards of Care developed by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health. Presented by: Acey Mercer, LMSW, Carolyn Wolf-Gould, MD, Arlene Lev, LCSW-R, CASAC. For more information: Call (518) 366-0583, or email us <sogi@albany.edu> To register: http://www.albany.edu/ssw/sogi-project.php This workshop series is made possible through the generous support of Rainbow Access Initiative, Gender Wellness Center, SWARE, The Institute for Gender, Relationships, Identity, and Sexuality, and the Pride

36 Center of the Capital Region.

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Joshua Radliff

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Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity Relationship & Parenting Issues

RelationshipRelationship & Parenting & Issues Parenting Issues

Relationship & ParentingRelationship Issues & Parenting Iss

T raditional & Holistic Psychotherapies T raditional & Holistic Psychotherapies T raditional & Holistic Psychotherapies for Healing & Growth for Healing & Growth for Healing & Growth

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te 2A (second floor) · Albany, NY 12203 523 WesteSexual rn Avenue, Suite 2A (second floor)Orientation · Albany, NY 12203 523 Western Avenue, Suite 2A (s& econd floGender or) · Albany, NY 12203523 Western Avenue, SuiIdentity

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Pub5941 GEAR 2013-0972

ASK THE LAWYER by Geri Pomerantz

Question: My partner (or spouse) is threatening to evict me. What can I do?

Short Answer: Contact In Our Own Voices or The Pride Center for a referral to an attorney and for other help . Or call the Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York.

Long Answer: A property owner can evict a tenant from a rental apartment, a house, or a mobile home. The landlord starts the eviction case by serving the tenant with a summons and Petition. These papers state, in writing, a date to appear in court and the reason why the landlord wants to evict you. (It will be city, town or village court, depending on where you live.) These papers must be served at least 5 days and no more than 12 days before the court date. A tenant with a written lease can only be evicted if (1) the lease has ended, (2) the tenant owes rent, or (3) the tenant has seriously violated a provision of the lease. A tenant without a lease (a month to month tenant), can only be evicted if (1) he owes rent or (2) was given a full month’s notice to move out. Tenants have certain rights, and there are certain defenses to eviction proceedings. Most importantly, the landlord can not evict anyone without an order from a judge called a “warrant of eviction” , which can be issued after a court date. Once a tenant is served with a warrant for eviction, he has 72 hours, not counting weekends or holidays, to move out. If the tenant doesn’t move out , then the tenant’s property can be removed and the locks changed. What I have just described is called a “summary

eviction proceeding”. Note that it is against the law for a landlord to do a self-help eviction (without a judge issuing a warrant of eviction). The landlord can not change the locks, turn off the electricity or water, remove the tenant’s possession from the house, lock out the tenant, or do anything else to prevent the tenant from living in the house unless there is a Court order. Not everyone is a tenant. If a property owner or tenant invites another person to live with him in his home, without paying rent, that may create a license relationship. A licensee is different from a tenant. A tenant pays a specified rent to a landlord. A licensee may pay something. But the licensee relationship is much more causal than a tenancy. The licensee may be an intimate partner, a relative, or simply a friend of the owner (or tenant of record). A licensee does not have many protections. However, the owner can not use trespass laws to remove a licensee from his home, nor may he resort to self-help eviction. If the owner want the partner or friend to leave, he must give the licensee a 10 day written notice to quite (to leave the home). If the licensee does not leave, then the owner can start an eviction proceeding in court, as described above.

Generally, a person can not evict his spouse. Generally, spouses can not be landlord and tenant to each other (nor in a licensee relationship). There must be a landlord- tenant relationship (or a licensee relationship) to use a summary eviction proceeding. Even if you are not on the deed or on the lease, as a spouse you generally have the right to live there. That is because a spouse has a duty to support his husband or wife. If you are not married, your intimate partner may still not be able to evict you in a summary eviction proceeding. First, if you are on the deed to the house, or on the lease to the apartment, your partner can not evict you. if you have a child in common, your partner has a duty to the child and can not evict her. If you are the child’s primary caretaker, arguably you also could not be evicted. Further, if you are not on the deed, but can demonstrate an equitable interest in the property

Tenants have certain rights, and there are certain defenses to eviction proceedings.

Ask the Lawyer continued on pg. 38

LAW OFFICE OF GERI POMERANTZ, ESQ. Proudly serving the LGBT community and our friends

Practice focused on family and matrimonial law

694 Columbia Turnpike East Greenbush, NY 12061 Tel: 518-479-3713 http://pomerantzlaw.org/ 39

Ask the Lawyer continued from pg. 37

you are not married,

your intimate partner may still not be able to evict you in a summary eviction proceeding.

(such as a long term relationship, or where you have made significant contributions of money or labor to the home) a summary eviction proceeding may not be proper. In that situation, your dispute with your partner over the house may need to be decided in the Supreme Court, in a more complicated and expensive case. If your spouse/partner wants you out of the house because you have been abusive to him, he may seek an order of protection against you. An order of protection can require you to move out and stay away from the house. An order of protection can be obtained from criminal court if there are charges against you, or from family court. If your spouse/partner is threatening to evict you from your home, perhaps

you are the victim of domestic violence or intimate partner abuse. You can also seek an order of protection from family court, or criminal court if there are charges, requiring your spouse/ partner to move out and stay away from the house and you. You can seek this protection even if your spouse/ partner is the owner of the house, or the tenant of record. If you are both tenants of another landlord, you can ask the landlord to evict him. If you are both tenants, you may also be able to get out of your lease agreement so that you can leave your abuser. In Our Own Voices (IOOV) provides help to LGBT victims of domestic violence and intimate partner abuse. Contact them at 518-432-4341. Or call the NY domestic violence hotline at 1-800-942-6906. For a listing of domestic violence hotlines and programs by county go to http:// www.nyscadv.org/statewide-dvservices-listings-by-county/ Y o u can contact the Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York, serving the capital district and beyond, at 518462-6765; Toll-free: 1-800-462-2922.

The legal rights of LGBTQ families are an everchanging landscape, to be addressed monthly in this column. The material in this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to give legal advice, and should not substitute for the independent advice of counsel. The views expressed in this column are solely those of Ms. Pomerantz and do not reflect the opinion of the Pride Center. The material in this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to give legal advice, and should not substitute for the independent advice of counsel. The views expressed in this column are solely those of Ms. Pomerantz and do not reflect the opinion of the Pride Center. Geri Pomerantz is an attorney in the capital district with a practice focused on family and matrimonial law, specifically including LGBTQ families. Geri conducts continuing legal education training for other lawyers, and conducts community education, on issues of importance to the LGBTQ community. She recently presented on parentage issues at the LGBT law day at Albany Law School. Geri is a member of the Collaborative Divorce Association of the Capital District.

She can be reached at GPEsq@pomerantzlaw.org

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Copps DiPaola, PLLC is proud to announce that it will be collaborating with the Pride Center on its Legacy Program. Planning that includes a legacy gift to the Pride Center reflects your commitment to an LGBTQ community in which individuals feel safe, secure and affirmed where they live, work, worship and play. Legacy gifts to the Pride Center are an important source of long term funding and sustainability. Copps DiPaola, PLLC (formerly the Law Office of Anne Reynolds Copps) has long been dedicated to assisting clients in the LGBTQ community in all areas of law including estate planning, adoption, surrogacy, name changes, and civil union dissolutions. Our firm has further assisted the LGBTQ community by serving as pro bono counsel for the Pride Center for the last 20+ years. Copps DiPaola, PLLC believes that the Pride Center is an invaluable resource in our community. To help ensure the continued funding and stability of the Pride Center, our firm will offer:

a $50 discount to any client who creates an estate plan with our firm and leaves a legacy gift to the Pride Center in any amount.

Every dollar you can donate counts!

(even if all you’re able to leave is the $50 you saved on your estate planning!) Copps DiPaola, PLLC’s regular rates are $300 to draft a Will and $500 for a full estate planning package. Anne Reynolds Copps, Esq., Partner (arcopps@coppsdipaola.com) Casey Copps DiPaola, Esq., Partner (kdipaola@coppsdipaola.com) Heather N. Brondi, Esq., Associate Attorney (hbrondi@coppsdipaola.com) 126 State Street, 6th Flr., Albany, New York 12207 518.436.4170 · 518.436.1456 (fax) · www.CoppsDiPaola.com

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ASK M A RK YO U R TA X Q U ESTI O N S

Welcome to the DEAR MARK column where you can ask a tax question. Of course some questions cannot be answered to due to the limited space in this column or warrant more facts due to specific circumstances of the taxpayer. Answers that apply to specific taxpayers may not necessary apply to others. Changes in tax law and rules may affect answers given at any point. You can write Mark at Mark Witecki CPA CFP(R) CFE, 3701 State St, Schenectady, NY 12304

============================

Dear Mark,

`I am one part of a same-sex couple and was married last year. The marriage is not working well and we are considering a divorce. Someone told me that there is something called an annulment and it might be good for tax purposes. Why is that? Sign me, Disgusted with my other half.

Dear Amiable,

Mark Witecki,

I would suggest setting up an appointment with an attorney that specializes in trusts.

I am a drag queen and have quite the attitude. I earn some income and it is increasing. I purchased some old books on how to be nasty. Can I write those off my taxes? Nasty

============================

Dear Mark W,

I own a rental property in Vermont that makes a good deal of money. I bought it several years ago but I have never filed a Vermont return to show that rental income. What kind of trouble am I in? In trouble or not?

I would suggest filing all back returns immediately. You would received a New York State credit on any amended returns for years that are still within the statute of limitations. ============================

If you get an annulment, you would be considered as never married at all. That means that you can amend your 2014 return if it is already filed as you were never married at all. In many cases, two single taxpayers pay less than if they were married.

I just purchased a large piece of land for the purpose of extracting large amounts of soil and rock to sell to contractors. How do I handle this on my taxes?

Dear Mark,

Confused

Mark Witecki,

Dear Confused,

I want to set up a trust for my daughter but don't know what kind of trust to set up and I am not sure if that is a good idea. My daughter has a habit of spending money on clothes and makeup and she can't seem to stop. I want to set up a trust to give her responsibility.

In addition to all the allowable expenses of running your business, you are entitled to something called depletion, which involves writing off part of the land cost to offset the revenues from the sale of the soil and rock, If it is cost effective, I would suggest retaining an engineer to do a survey and estimate of the rock and soil that might be contained in the land, and that can be used as a basis for the depletion expense each year.

VTY Amiable. =============================

If the old books help you in your act and are connecting to your business you should be able to write them off. More facts from you would give you a more definite answer.

Dear IN trouble,

Dear Disgusted,

============================

Dear Nasty,

============================

Answers that apply to specific taxpayers may not necessary apply to others. Changes in tax law and rules may affect answers given at any point. You can write Mark at Mark Witecki CPA CFP(R) CFE, 3701 State St, Schenectady, NY 12304. Mark D. Witecki specializes in small businesses and professional individuals. Mr. Witecki has a B. S. in Accounting from S. U. N. Y. Albany and an M. S. in Accounting from Syracuse University. Mark D. Witecki is a Certified Public Accountant, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER ™ practitioner, Certified Fraud Examiner, Certified College Planning Specialist and is admitted to practice before the United States Tax Court. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP® , CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements. Mark’s office is located at 3701 State Street, Schenectady, New York

============================

Mark D. Witecki Certified Public Accountant Certified Financial Planner™ Certified Fraud Examiner Tax Preparation 3701 State Street, Schenectady, NY 12304 (518) 346-4000 f: (518) 346-5195

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. owns the Certified Marks CFP (c). Certified Financial Planner ™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S. which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP’s initial and ongoing certification requirements

Members Aeon Nexus Albany Medical Center Albany.com/Mannix Marketing Alliance for Positive Health Aras Performance Group, Inc Bank of America/ Merrill Lynch BBL Hospitality Berkshire Bank Foundation Bomber's Burrito Bar Buenau's Opticians Canterbury Animal Hospital Capital District YMCA Casswood Insurance CDPHP Central Avenue BID Classy Body Art Connections Psychotherapy Consumer Optical Corey Jamison Consulting, LLC. Deb Best Practices Decrescente Deja Vu DiCarlo's Ellis Medicine Empire Merchants North Experience and Creative Design, Ltd. Geri Pomerantz, Esq GP Fund Solutions LLC HomoRadio Interim Healthcare James Leone State Farm Janet Stein / Arbonne International Jay Zhang Photography Joseph Roche, Accounting Journey United Church of Christ Key Bank LAX on Lark Lucas Confectionery and Wine Bar

Mansion Inn Mark D. Witecki, CPA Mazzone Hospitality / Aperitivo Bistro McGeary's Mexican Radio Schenectady Montgomery County Office for Aging MVP Health Care New York Life Insurance Company Northeast Acura NYSUT Oh Bar Olde English Pub Omni Development Company Peck’s Arcade Price Chopper Supermarkets Rain Modern Chinese RBC Wealth Management Renaissance Albany Hotel River Street Men’s Club ROCKS Ronnie Mangione / Wealth Advisory Group Samaritan Hospital Scofield Access Solutions LLC Security Plumbing & Heating Supply Skylands Services, INC Spectrum 8 Theatre Sunrise Management and Consulting Sylvan Learning Center TD Bank The Desmond The Grocery Tri City Rentals Turner Construction University at Albany Foundation Waterworks Pub Wells Fargo Wolff’s Biergarten, Schenectady

Pride Center Business Alliance Members as of Sept. 30 2015

THE FASHIONABLE AND THE FRIVOLOUS by ALAN BENNET ILAGAN

I’ve seen women who have wielded unbreakable power in the sheerest silk of a negligee, or the razor thin stick of a stiletto. Some ladies have been known to slay a room with the slightest rubyred slash of lipstick. Whether or not this is entirely the result of their masks, or whether those sartorial choices merely accentuated what was already part of them, the fact remains that our masks play a part in our lives. They create the versions of ourselves that we want to present to the world.

Show Your

UNMASKED

Pride Online

Every single one of us wears a mask. Even the most open and honest and transparent among us have something that veils our truest nature. It’s the essence of being alive, this attempt at furtive safety. Some animals have it too, as evidenced in the camouflaging chameleonic survival techniques of the octopus and the walking stick and, well, the chameleon. Sometimes you have to hide to stay alive. The outfits we wear and the clothing we choose are masks of another sort. They are a kind of armor, the warrior-wear we don to take on the world. They need not be made of metal mesh or leather or anything so literally protective. Clothing can be powerful in other ways.

One of the mightiest outfits I’ve ever seen on a man was a simple pair of white briefs. In that one single item of cotton, he held dominion over me in a way that wearing a Zegna suit would never accomplish. I watched him with rapt wonder and fascination, with utter subservience and submission, because in his underwear he was beautiful, and such beauty held sway over me when I didn’t know any better. 44

For me, it was a way of instilling a confidence that might not otherwise be apparent, or even hidden. Over the course of many years, I managed to turn that bit of make-believe poise into something that really did exist, a manifestation purposely created and cultivated until it was actually there. That’s the power of a mask. What started out as a protection device became, in its own way and merit, an aspect of my personality that had always been lacking. I’m not saying it was the ideal method of gaining self-confidence, but it was the only way I knew. When a mask is born out of desperation, great things can sometimes result, and not all of them need to be frightening. In this month, when many of us will be dressing up in costumes and disguises, perhaps it’s worth an examination of the masks we wear when it’s not Halloween. Alan Bennett Ilagan is a freelance writer and amateur photographer who resides in upstate New York with his husband Andy. He created the website www. ALANILAGAN.com, which contains a repository of his work, as well as a daily blog; the website recently celebrated its tenth anniversary online. He was the manager of the Romaine Brooks Gallery from 2008 to 2012. His writing has appeared in Instinct, xy magazine, Capitalmen, Q Northeast, the Windy City Times, and the Boston Phoenix. Notable artistic collaborations have been created with the likes of Steven Underhill, Paul Richmond, Dennis Dean, and Michael Breyette.

COSTUME FASHION SHOW & HALLOWEEN MOVIE! Swing by the Albany Public Library Main Branch for a ghoulish Halloween Costume Fashion Show and screening The Nightmare Before Christmas! Popcorn and Goodie Bags for all participants SUNDAY OCTOBER 25 2-4:30PM 161 Washington Avenue. Albany, NY

Proudly continuing to serve as the voice of the LGBT community after 22 years… Live every Sunday 10AM – 2 PM Check us “OUT”: WRPI 91.5 FM or wrpi.org 518.276.6248

•

homoradio.blogspot.com

For more information contact Steven @ (518) 462-6138 or sminchin@capitalpridecenter.org 46

Advertisers Index Aeon Nexus.....10 Albany Damien Center.....54 Albany Gay Men's Chorus.....24 Albany Laws School.....31 Albany Medical Center.....9 Albany.com.....14 / 44 Alliance for Positive Health.....21 Be Clear.....22 Buenau's Opticians.....14 / 46 Canterbury Animal Hospital.....26 CDPHP.....14 Choices Counseling & Consulting.....26 Congregation Agudat Achim.....53 Copps DiPaola, PLLC.....39 Corey Jamison Consulting.....26 David Connors / RBC Wealth Management.....14 Drue Sanders Custom Jewlers.....36 Ellis Medicine.....8 Experience and Creative Design.....2 First United Presbyterian Church.....26 Friends of Christina Ryba.....56 GP Fund Solutions.....10 Hilton Albany.....23 Hilton Garden Inn.....24 HomoRadio.....44 Hudson Valley LGBTQ Community Center.....14 In Our Own Voices.....44 Interim Healthcare.....30 Jay Zhang Photography.....28 Jaye McBride.....25 Jeff Baltes & Gene Knapp.....10 Joseph Roche, Accountant.....45 Law Office of Geri Pomerantz.....37 M&T Bank.....14 Mark Witecki, CPA, CFP.....40 Massary for Supreme Court.....55 Nico's Rooftop Tavern.....44 Northeast Acura.....28 Occupational & Environmental Health Center.....22 Planned Parenthood Mohawk Hudson.....20 Presbyterian Rainbow.....46 Price Chopper.....8 Project Hope.....22 / 46 Queer Engineer.....51 Realty USA- The Capital Team.....30 Renaissance Hotels.....12 Rev. Moonhawk River Stone.....22 Riverstone Consulting.....26 Ronnie Mangione, Financial Advisor.....36 Saratoga Pride.....51 Scofield Access Solutions, LLC.....28 Security Supply / Bath Expressions Showroom.....20 /26 Skylands Services.....28 Spectrum 8 Theatre.....36 St. Peter's Health Partners.....10 State University at Albany.....8 Sylvan Learning Center.....14 The Sogi Project.....34 Thomas J. Walling, CFP / Cetera Advisor Networks.....28 Times Union.....12 Tri City Rentals.....8 / 38 Troy Music Hall.....27 Turner Construction.....2 WAMC.....14 Warner & Warner Attorneys at Law.....30 Waterworks Pub.....22 Wells Fargo.....30

out

the

garden

THE MEASURE OF SUCCESS by

"The measure of success is how readily you can go from failure to failure without losing your enthusiasm.” This bit of greeting card wisdom encountered on my last trip to CVS reminded me of the message we were given in my first class at IES (Institute for Ecosystem Studies): “If you are not killing plants, you are not doing horticultural.” This was said with great enthusiasm, thus inaugurating the redefinition of success and failure that characterizes life in the garden. On duty for the Master Gardener hotline at the Cornell Cooperative Extension, I am astonished at the number of things that can go wrong in the plant world and cause what could be considered failure. The emerald ash borer is taking down the ash trees; the red lily beetle has made mush of the Asiatic lily; the drought is stressing out even established shrubs and laying up trouble for next year; the hibiscus has dropped its buds and the possible reasons are too numerous to mention; if the tomatoes were not stricken by early blight they will now succumb to late blight. Here at home I am looking at a possible failure of major proportions. For two years now I have been treating the blue spruce for a fungal disease that leads them to drop their new needles and die back and out, but it appears that

Judith Fetterley

am losing the battle and may well lose all four of my trees. I have been heard to say that if the blue spruce go, so do I. But I know I don’t mean it. I am still able to take their loss as a sign that I am “doing horticulture.” When I can no longer see failure as a sign that I am doing something right, it will be time to turn in my weeder and quit the field.

Still there are some tricks I use to keep myself going when the greeting card wisdom begins to pall. I lost my sugar maple this year in a mini-tornado. I have now convinced myself that the garden looks better without this tree. Its absence changes the relation of the remaining plants to each other and I see things differently. The pine shrubs glow without the shadow of the maple to dim their beauty and the viburnum struts because it is now the largest presence. Besides, a space has opened up that gives me a chance to try something new, not another tree but perhaps a few more dwarf lilacs. If the blue spruces go, I will think of the possibilities their loss provides to try a new tree or a new shrub, one that I have not been able to use before because I have not had the right space. I will make a new acquaintance and extend my horticultural knowledge. In other instances of failure, I have learned to reduce my expectations. Yes, it would have been nice if the pagoda dogwood had thrived; its there are some tricks I use to branches grow out from the trunk in keep myself going when the horizontal layers creating a Chinese greeting card wisdom begins garden effect. But dogwoods are tender for our zone, they require constant to pall watering if they are to survive, and that is not something I can give it. I will re

LOCALEVENTS THINGS TO DO CONTESTS Neighbors vow to battle plan seeking gas station with drive-through. B1

as with any relationship, the secret to satisfaction lies in affirming one’s commitment and expressing gratitude move it this fall, and I will learn to be quite happy without realizing a pagoda effect in my garden. Finally, I have learned to manipulate time. My failure to realize that one long border is far more effective than several small events can be remedied by putting in a stone path that will connect and define it. If it seems too late in my tenure here for such a major improvement, I don’t care. The pleasure of this small “success” will be large no matter how long I have it. My garden delights in so many ways; it renders joy a daily event. But in the way it helps me rethink success and failure it provides a life lesson of inestimable value. And as with any relationship, the secret to satisfaction lies in affirming one’s commitment and expressing gratitude. This is what I do every day when I weed. Judith Fetterley lives and gardens in Glenmont, New York. She also runs Perennial Wisdom, a garden design business for new and existing gardens. Reach Judith at f etterleyj@gmail.com

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These Presbyterian Churches Welcome You Where you can find a place ~ come as you are!

Albany First Presbyterian State & Willett Streets www.firstpresalbany.org Sunday Worship 8:30 am & 10:45 am

Hudson First Presbyterian Church 369 Warren Street FirstPresHudson.org Sunday Worship 10:45 am

Spencertown St. Peter’s Presbyterian Church 5219 County Route 7 SaintPetersPC.org Sunday Worship 10:00 am

Albany Westminster Presbyterian 262 State Street www.WPCalbany.org Sunday Worship 10:00 am

Hudson Falls First Presbyterian Church 5 River Street www.fpchudsonfalls.org Sunday Worship 10:00 am

Stephentown Stephentown Federated Church 1513 Garfield Road StephentownFederatedChurch.org Sunday Worship 9:30 am

Amsterdam United Presbyterian Church 25 Church Street www.upchurch25.org Sunday Worship 9:30 am

Putnam Station Putnam United Presbyterian Church 365 County Route 2 518-547-8378 Sunday Worship 10:00 am

Stillwater Stillwater United Church 747 Hudson Avenue StillwaterUnitedChurch.org Sunday Worship 9:00 & 10:30 am

Colonie Roessleville Presbyterian Church Elmhurst and Central Avenue 518-459-2816 Sunday Worship 9:30 am

Rensselaer First Presbyterian Church 34 Broadway 518-463-0894 Sunday Worship 10:00 am

Troy (Lansingburgh) Cornerstone Community Church 570 3rd Avenue www.cornerstoneccl.org Sunday Worship 10:00 am

Delmar Delmar Presbyterian Church 585 Delaware Avenue www.delmarpres.org Sunday Worship 10:00 am

Rensselaerville Rensselaerville Presbyterian Church 1454 CR 351 rvillepres.org Sunday Worship 11:00 am (Summer Only)

Troy First United 1915 Fifth Avenue (downtown) www.UnitedPresTroy.org Sunday Worship 10:00 am

Glens Falls First Presbyterian Church 400 Glen Street

Saratoga Springs Presbyterian-New England Congregational 24 Circular Street www.pnecchurch.org Sunday Worship 10:45 am

Valatie First Presbyterian Church 3212 Church Street 518-758-9658 Sunday Worship 11:00 am

FPCgf.org

Sunday Worship 10:00 am Guilderland Hamilton Union Presbyterian Church 2291 Western Avenue

Scotia-Glenville Trinity Presbyterian Church 185 Swaggertown Rd. HamiltonUnionPresbyterianChurch.org www.ScotiaTrinity.org Sunday Worship 8:30 am & 10:00 am Sunday Worship 10:00 am

West Charlton West Charlton United Presbyterian 1331 Sacandaga Road www.westcharltonUPC.org Sunday Worship 10:30 am

age ad for September 2015 CommUnity For any questions regarding this ad, please contact Judy Moyer (518) 283-7663 or Moyer.Judith@gmail.com. Presbyterian Rainbow contract for 2015

An onlineTRICK might have more than a TREAT.

Ask if he’s been tested for syphilis. Get yourself tested.

We are all God’s children ~ Come as you are!

iSYPHY 48

rubbaboyz.net

HERE’S GUFFMAN by PATRICK WHITE

SHOULD I STAY OR SHOULD I GO?

Fall brings with it many changes and along with students going back to school there are the graduates who are embarking on their careers and looking for the best circumstances to accomplish that. Two such young women are Kristyn Youngblood and Elizabeth Pietrangelo. Kristyn stayed in Albany after her graduation from UAlbany in 2012 as part of the last class to receive Theater Majors before the Major was suspended (it’s back). Beth moved down to the city a year ago but is back, at least on weekends where she is performing “The Night Alive” with me at Curtain Call Theatre 10/16-11/7. Below are excerpts of our conversations with Kristyn going first. I had thought you had moved to the city and then I saw you in the Price Chopper and you were assistant to the director in Capital Rep’s Summer Stage…what happened? I was looking for an apartment in the city but then my boss at Drama Kids offered me a big promotion and then I booked the Cap Rep “On the Go” tour so I ended up just staying here instead of actually going to the city. What is Drama Kids? Drama Kids is this company, a franchise, it started in Australia. I’ve been working with them for three years now and they have classes for kids all over the Capital District. I teach for them in Delmar, Guilderland, Colonie, East Greenbush, and Clifton Park, a different location every day of the week. They’re hour long classes. I teach kids from 5 years old up to 18, my oldest student. It’s pretty cool, we do a lot of improve, not so much actual scripted work. I had auditioned for the “On the Go” tour which you did and that had the option of joining the actor’s union, Equity, at the end of the tour. Did you join Equity? I was kind of on the fence about taking Equity because I knew around here there wasn’t going to be much else but then they offered me the Erie Canal Show which was another “On the Go” and I took Equity because I had two Equity jobs lined up and now I’m going to be in another one of their tours this fall: “Sleepy Hollow.”

So you’re able to do Drama Kids and the “On the Go” tours? Yeah, my boss at Drama Kids is really great. She’s very supportive of my acting endeavors. It works really well. And I really like the tours because I really like teaching kids and even though I’m not teaching my classes during that time, I’m still pretty much teaching kids…even though I’m onstage and I love doing the tours. They’re really fun.

to find it in NYC. There are literally auditions and opportunities offered every day, every hour. Additionally, there is so much being done by artists in the city. As an actor I have always thought it valuable and worthwhile to take advantage of all works of art (museums, concerts, dance, opera, musicals, street shows, heck, even sitting on the subway is a production and a lesson in human nature). And there is a ton of free stuff!

That’s amazing! You’re actually using your Theater Major in the Capital Region and building a career with it. What do you feel the Capital Region needs to keep trained actors here? For me, being an Equity actor, I would like more opportunities to be able to do something. I’m doing Cap Rep but for me obviously if I were to want to get steady acting jobs and totally ditch the teaching aspect, I would have to move. I do get to do readings and stuff. I’m doing a WAM reading this weekend which is really great.

What do you love about the city? I love that I can walk out my front door and hear 10 languages in 5 minutes. I’ve never experienced being a minority before, and I think that it is important. I love that I see something that shocks me almost every day. The city makes you realize how different the world is and how many stories people have. Recently I was on the subway sitting across from a man with green hair, facial piercings, and a mesh tank top. Maybe he just came from a rave. He was sitting next to an older, Jewish woman in a head scarf and long black skirt. It was beautiful. You just don’t see that everywhere. The city forces you to take a step back out of your comfort bubble and old ways of thinking about the world.

…and now Elizabeth: Last year when you moved to the city, what was the thinking behind it? What do you hope to do in the city that you can't do here? I moved to NYC because it is the “mecca”, the “place to be”, the “hot spot” for theater, especially new work. I knew that if I wanted to make acting a career I would need to move to a place where I could either get my Equity Card or I could be paid for my work and where art itself was highly valued. I also knew that the city offered work that I was interested in doing (new work by young playwrights, experimental/controversial/provocative work, Shakespeare/Chekhov). How's it going? You've got a subsistence job, what are you finding in the nature of opportunities in your art? It’s freakin’ hard. And it's scary. I work 50-60 hours a week at two jobs, and its hard finding time and energy to go to auditions, go to classes, stay out late to network, and hone my craft. But the opportunities are there. If you have the drive and hunger to be in theater you don’t have to look hard

What do you appreciate about your experience in Capital Region theater? Working with the people involved and those companies who are willing to explore new works and plays that are not produced very often. I've been fortunate to work with great actors who are committed to making good art and who are brave enough to explore difficult/painful subject matter. What is lacking in Capital Region theater? Diversity, new works, and younger audiences. Patrick White is a Capital Region actor, director and teacher who is in “The Night Alive” by Conor McPherson 10/16-11/7 at Curtain Call Theatre. He offers an acting class Saturday mornings at the Albany Masonic Hall. white.patrick1963@gmail.com

Welcoming Congregations

Join Us In Exploring Your Spiritual Side At One Of The Welcoming Congregations Below: Community Congregational Church (UCC) 221 Columbia Tpke, Rensselaer www.clintonheightsucc.org

First Church in Albany 110 North Pearl Street, Albany www.firstchurchinalbany.org (518)463-4449

Community Reformed Church of Colonie 701 Sand Creek Road, Colonie www.coloniereformed.org (518)869-5589

First Congregational Church of Albany UCC & NACCC 405 Quail Street, Albany www.firstcongregationalalbany.org (518)482-4580

Congregation Agudat Achim (Conservative) 2117 Union Street, Schenectady www.agudatachim.org (518) 393-9211

First Lutheran Church 181 Western Avenue, Albany www.FirstLutheranAlbany.org (518)463-1326

Congregation B’nai Shalom (Reform) 420 Whitehall Road, Albany www.bnaishalom.albany.ny.us (518) 482-5283

First Presbyterian Church 362 State Street, Albany www.firstpresalbany.org (518)449-7332

Congregation Berith Sholom (Reform) 167 Third Street, Troy www.berithsholom.org (518)272-8872

First Reformed Church 8 North Church Street, Schenectady www.1streformed.com

Congregation Beth Emeth (Reform) 100 Academy Road, Albany www.bethemethalbany.org (518)436-9761

First Unitarian Society of Schenectady 1221 Wendell Avenue, Schenectady www.fussonline.org (518)374-4446

Congregation Gates of Heaven (Reform) 842 Ashmore Avenue, Schenectady www.cgoh.org (518)374-8173 Congregation Ohav Shalom (Conservative) 113 New Krumkill Road, Albany www.ohavshalom.org Congregation Temple Sinai (Reform) 509 Broadway, Saratoga Springs www.templesinai-saratogasprings.org (518) 584-8730 Delmar Presbyterian Church 585 Delaware Ave, Delmar www.delmarpres.org Eastern Parkway United Methodist Church 943 Palmer Avenue, Schenectady www.easternparkway.weebly.com (518)374-4306 St. George’s Episcopal Church 30 North Ferry St., Schenectady www.stgeorgesschenectady.org Emmanuel Baptist Church 275 State Street, Albany, NY www.emmanuelalbany.net (518)465-5161

First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany 405 Washington Avenue, Albany www.albanyuu.org (518)463-7135 First United Methodist Church 603 State Street, Schenectady, www.gbgm-umc.org/schenectady (518)374-4403 First United Methodist Church, East Greenbush www.fumceg.org First United Presbyterian Church 1915 Fifth Avenue, Troy www.unitedprestroy.org (518)272-2771 Friends Meeting (Quaker) 727 Madison Avenue, Albany (518) 436-8812 Presbyterian New England Congregational Church, Saratoga http://pnecchurch.org/ Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 501 Albany Shaker Road, Loudonville www.goodshepherdchurchloudonville.org (518)458-1562

Holy Trinity National Catholic Church 405 Washington Avenue, Albany www.NCCofA.org/holytrin.html (518)434-8861 Journey United Church of Christ 500 Kenwood Blvd, Delmar www.journeyucc.com Saratoga Springs United Methodist Church 175 Fifth Avenue, Saratoga Springs www.saratogaspringsumc.org (518)5843720 Saint Aelred’s Priory and Retreat House (National Catholic) 670 Bunker Hill Road, Northville staelredpriory@aol.com (518) 863-8086 / (518) 434-8861 St. Andrews Episcopal Church Main at Madison Avenue, Albany www.standrewsalbany.org (518)489-4747 St. John’s Lutheran Church 160 Central Avenue, Albany www.stjohnsalbany.org (518)465-7545 Temple Israel 600 New Scotland Avenue, Albany www.tialbany.org (518) 438-7858 Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Saratoga 624 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs www.saratoga-uu.org (518)584-1555 Unity Church in Albany 21 King Avenue, Albany www.unitychurchinalbany.org (518)4533603 Woodstock Jewish Congregation (Reconstructionist) 1682 Glasco Turnpike, Woodstock www.wjcshul.org (845)246-1671

Proud To Be Open! Affirming! Welcoming! Joyous!

MICHAEL COOKS AND YOU CAN TOO by MICHAEL MEADE

Nothing evokes autumn in upstate New York more than the taste and fragrance of MacIntosh apples. The apple is New York State’s official fruit and the MacIntosh is our oldest (and perhaps only) naturally-created native apple. People have enjoyed this apple since 1811 when Scottish immigrant John MacIntosh discovered the first seedling on his newly-acquired farm in the Champlain Valley. It has been America’s favorite apple for nearly two centuries. Over the years, new varieties of MacIntosh-based apples have been developed in New York, including the Empire, Cortland, Rome and most recently, the MacCoun. But the MacIntosh remains my favorite and it’s the one I always use for baking apple desserts. Early settlers of America were very good at improvising. When they first arrived, they brought their favorite recipes with them. British colonists imported the fruit pie, a dessert whose origins traced back to the occupation of their island by the ancient Romans. Lacking their customary ingredients, they used whatever was available. Molasses and maple syrup were used as sweeteners instead of sugar. Since lard for piecrust was scare, crumb toppings or biscuit dough were substituted. Apples were the favorite filling because they were easy to grow and could be dried and stored throughout the winter months. These attempts to recreate the British “pie” evolved into a number of traditional American desserts. They have been called by many unusual names, such as cobbler, tart, crisp, pandowdy, grunt, slump, bird's nest pudding or brown betty. Based on whatever fresh ingredients are readily at hand, they are all simple to make and rely more on taste than fancy pastry preparation. Cobbler Cobblers are an American dessert with a thick crust (usually a biscuit crust) placed over a layer of

sliced apples, sugar and cinnamon. Early colonists called them “Cobblers” because they were “cobbled together”, i.e. assembled quickly and inexpensively.

Internet. All of these desserts can also be made with peaches, berries or any combination of fruits.

Crisps and Crumbles Crisps are baked with the apple mixture on the bottom with a crumb topping. The crumb topping can be made with flour, nuts, bread crumbs, cookie or graham cracker crumbs. A Crumble is the British version of the American Crisp.

(filling) 5 cups sliced apples 3/4 cup sugar 2 tablespoon flour 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup water 1 tablespoon butter

Betty or Brown Betty A Betty (also known as Brown Betty) consist of the apple mixture baked between layers of buttered crumbs. Betties are an English pudding dessert that were imported and extremely popular in the American colonies. Grunts or Slumps Basically a cobbler, but called Grunt or Slump in New England, Unlike a Cobbler, however, a Grunt/Slump is usually cooked on top of the stove or steamed instead of being baked in the oven. Pandowdy A deep-dish dessert made with sliced apples sweetened with molasses or brown sugar. The topping is a crumbly type of biscuit, similar to a Cobbler, except the crust is broken up during baking and pushed down into the fruit to allow the juices to come through. Sometimes the crust is on the bottom and the desert is inverted before serving. The exact origin of the name Pandowdy is unknown, but it probably refers to the desert’s plain or dowdy appearance. Bird’s Nest Pudding A pudding containing whole apples whose cores have been replaced by sugar. The apples are nestled in a bowl created by the crust. So here’s a recipe for Apple Cobbler to get you started, and many more can be found in cookbooks and on the

Apple Cobbler

(dough) 1 cup flour 1 tablespoon sugar 1 & 1/2 teaspoons baking powder Pinch of salt 3 tablespoons shortening 1/2 cup milk

For filling: combine the sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon and salt. Pour into a greased 8x12 inch baking dish (Pyrex works best), sprinkle with water and dot with butter. Cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees for fifteen minutes. For dough: sift flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Cut in shortening and stir in milk. Dough will be sticky. Drop by spoonfuls onto hot apples. Bake uncovered for 25-35 minutes. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Makes six servings.

Michael Meade graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, worked at Jack’s Oyster House in Albany and is currently sous-chef at Thunder Mountain Curry in Troy. Questions and comments are welcome at Michaelmeade1215@yahoo.com 51

Affiliate Events CHORUS REHEARSAL The Albany Gay Men’s Chorus rehearses on Tuesday evenings from 6:45 to 9:00pm at the First Lutheran Church. For more information: www.albanygmc.org, E-mail: albanygmc@yahoo.com, Voice-mail: (518) 459-7563 or join us on Facebook at: Albany Gay Men’s Chorus - AGMC.

MOVIE NIGHT-SECOND TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH We will begin at 5pm at Harvey’s Pub, 14 Phila Street Saratoga Springs,. From there, we can decide who wants to see what movies and leave accordingly for Bowtie Cinemas.

LESBIAN NETWORKING BREAKFAST We meet on the third Thursday of each month, at the Country Corner Café on Church Street in the upstairs dining room at 7:30 am. Latecomers are welcome.

MONTHLY GLBTQ SUPPORT GROUP Second Sunday of the Month Fallstaff Building, Skidmore College 3-4:30pm. Contact Caroline with questions: 518.857.9361

QueerEngineer Get to know us & how you can support LGBTQ* students in science, technology, engineering, & mathematics. /QueerEngineer

@QueerEngineer

A Pride Center of the Capital Region affiliate

Every LGBTQ Alcoholics Anonymous Sun. in the Garden Level 7-8:30 † **

of the month

of themonth

6-9

Sun.

Mon..of themonth

Every

3-4:30-pm

Supper Sunday on the 1st Floor

5-9pm

MONDAYS

Trans* Pride Discussion Group on the 1st Floor 7-9pm

2 3rd 4th

6-7 Women’s Group 7-8 discussion on the 1st Floor Live from the Livingroom Poetry Open Mic** 7pm in the Garden Level LGBTQ Book Club on the 1st Floor

Weds.

Women’s Group on the 1st Floor

Capital Region Support Group for Family & Friends of LGBTQ People**

First Unitarian Society of Schenectady 1221 Wendel Ave, Schenectady More info: Deborah Kenyon 7pm deborahkenyon2@gmail.com, 518-584-4774 (C), Tues. 518-695-4117 (H) themonth

Schenectady LGBTQA Youth Group (ages 18 & under)

Proctor’s Theater, Guild Room 432 State St., Schenectady

on the 1st Floor

6-8

LGBTQ Narcotics Anonymous† ** in the Garden Level 7:30-8:30pm

AYO! Youth Drop in Space

(ages 18 & under) on 1st Floor & in the Garden Level

Every Friday

Albany LGBTQA Youth Group (ages 18 & under)

in the Garden Level

7-8:30pm

Special Artist Reception and Opening in the Romaine Brooks Gallery check out the artists at www.capitalpridecenter.org/RBG

on the 1st Floor

5-9pm

Saratoga LGBTQA Youth Group

Except where noted all events take place at

of themonth

The Pride Center 332 Hudson Ave Albany, NY 12210

Trans* Pride Meet & Greet 7-9pm on the 1st Floor

3-9pm

Garden Level nly on 1st Fridays

of the month

(ages 18 & under) Saratoga Springs Library, Susman Room 49 Henry St, Saratoga Springs 4:30-6pm Tues.

6-7:30pm

FRIDAYS

T-Talk: Trans* & Gender Non-Confroming Youth Group (ages 18 & under)

6-7pm social hour 7-8pm discussion

THURSDAYS

Saratoga LGBTQA Youth Group

4:30-6pm

7pm

of themonth

(ages 18 & under) Saratoga Springs Library, Susman Room 49 Henry St, Saratoga Springs

of themonth

4:30-6pm

pm social hour pm

of themonth

TUESDAYS st

of themonth

(for youth leaders only)

on the 1st Floor & in the Garden Level

Weds.

Men’s Peer Support Group on the Garden Level 7-8:30pm

Tues.

Weds.

of themonth

Sponsored by Saratoga Pride and The Pride Center of the Capital Region

of themonth

Center Youth Action Team Meetings

Weds.

Saratoga Springs Library 49 Henry St, Saratoga Springs More info: Caroline Russell Smith 518.857.9361

Last

Thurs.of themonth

Sun.

Game Night in the Rainbow Cafe GLBTQ Support Group

WEDNESDAYS

Every

SUNDAYS

WEEKLY EVENTS

The Garden Level can be accessed from the street

T-Talk: Trans* & Gender Non-Confroming Youth Group

Tues.

of themonth

(ages 18 & under)

on the 1st Floor

6-8pm

through the door beneath the front steps

Anonymous meetings held at the Pride Center are non-affiliated, independent groups

†

**indicates

an outside group that meets at the Pride Center 53

Friday, October 16 2015 Pride Center Gala!

Special Events

Thursday, October 15 Pre-Screening of Freeheld (Pride Center Benefit)

Join us in honoring the individuals and businesses working Ahead of its regular theatrical release Spectrum 8 Theatre will to create a more welcoming Capital Region for the lesbian, screen FREEHELD to benefit the Pride Center of the Capital Region! gay, bisexual, transgender and queer community. Tickets are still available and can be ordered at www. capitalpridecenter.org or by calling (518) 462-6138 Friday, October 16 Hilton Albany 5:30 pm Tickets starting at $95

Sunday, October 25 Center Families Costume Fashion Show & Halloween Movie

Julianne Moore, Ellen Page, Michael Shannon and Steve Carell star in this powerful film chronicling the true love story of Laurel Hester and Stacie Andree and their fight for justice. A decorated New Jersey police detective, Laurel is diagnosed with cancer and wants to leave her hard earned pension to her domestic partner, Stacie. However the county officials, Freeholders, conspire to prevent Laurel from doing this. Hard-nosed detective Dane Wells and activist Steven Goldstein unite in Laurel and Stacieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s defense, rallying police officers and ordinary citizens to support their struggle for equality. 103min. PG13

Thursday, October 15th Spectrum 8 Theatre Swing by the Albany Public Library Main Branch for 290 Delaware Ave, Albany, 12209 a ghoulish Halloween Costume Fashion Show and 7 pm screening The Nightmare Before Christmas! advance tickets: http://spectrum8. com/2014/08/06/october-16-freeheld/ Popcorn and Goodie Bags for all participants Center Families provides social opportunities for LG- LOOKING AHEAD : BTQ headed families of all compositions. Aunts, uncles, chosen families, grandparents, etc. are all welcome Friday, November 6 to attend with their loved little ones. Opening Reception for Donald Jones Join us at the Romaine Brooks Gallery for Novembre's 1st Friday Albany and as we welcome Donald Jones and his new exhibit with a special artist reception which wil lalso show off Donald's skill at the culinary arts! Sunday, October 25 Albany Public Library - Main Branch 161 Washington Avenue. Albany, NY 12210 2-4:30 pm Free!

GET EVENT UPDATES:

Friday, November 7 Romaine Brooks Gallery The Pride Center 332 Hudson Ave, Albany, 12210 5-9 pm

Friday, November 20 Transgender Day of Remembrance The Transgender Day of Remembrance was set aside to memorialize those who were killed due to anti-transgender hatred or prejudice. Friday, November 20 Time / Location TBA Free

SPORTS / FUN & GAMES Gay Skate - Tuesdays - An open skate for the LGBTQ Community! $9.50 w. Skate Rental / $6.50 w. your own skates. For more info contact David at DB40@ AOL.com or (518) 573-3962 - 7-9:30pmRollarama Skating Center, 2710 Hamburg St., Schenectady Geek and Gaymer Night -Thursdays - 9pm- Rocks, 77 Central Ave, Albany (518) 472-3588 Capital Area Pride Bowlers will be starting the first half of their new season on Sept 13th the Sunday till Nov 29th. Then off for the holidays ! It is 15.00 per week dues. For the first day of bowling arrive by 5:30. Open to all. Sportsman Bowling Lanes, 1652 Crane St. Schenectady. More info - Dimas (518) 894-1083. KARAOKE

Waterworks Pub - Mondays - 10pm - 2am, No Cover. (18+) 76 Central Ave, Albany, (518) 465-9079 Oh Bar - Thursdays - 10pm - 1am, No Cover. (21+) 304 Lark St., Albany, (518) 463-9004 Waterworks Pub - Fridays - 10pm 18+ (w. cover)- 76 Central Ave, Albany, (518) 465-9079 ROCKS - Fridays - 9pm-12am 77 Central Ave, Albany, (518) 472-3588 Circus Cafe - Saturdays -10pm - 2am, (21+) 392 Broadway, Saratoga, (518) 583-1106 Center Square Pub - Saturdays - 10pm - 2am, No Cover. 32 Dove St., Albany, (518) 729-2880

OPEN MIC / LITERARY Wednesday 8/ 12- Live from the Livingroom monthly poetry open mic- The Pride Center, Garden Level 332 Hudson Ave, Albany, (518) 4626138

Calendar

Open Minded Mic & Talent Showcase (for all performers)- Every 1st & 3rd Thursday - sign up 8:30pm start 9:00pm - Rocks, 77 Central Ave., Albany - (518) 472-3588

Variety Open Mic - Sundays - 10 pm - 12am - Waterworks Pub, 76 Central Ave Albany - (518) 465-9079 SOCIAL / SUPPORT GROUPS Out of the Closet I Am (for women who have sex with women): 1st & 3rd Wednesdays- 6:30pm-8pm Men’s Empowerment Group: 1st & 3rd Thursdays -6-7:30pm Voices of Unity (for Transgender people of color): 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month from 6pm-7:30pm Groups listed above meet at In Our Own Voices, 245 Lark St., Albany, (518) 432-4188 YouthPride! A student led meeting that centers around helping LGBTQ students and allied students discuss matters in our community, schools, and in their Gay Straight Alliances (GSAs) that they have in their schools. YouthPride provides leadership development and an opportunity to help plan activities around GLSEN’s Days of Action and Days of Support. 1st Friday of the month 6-9pm- Professor Java’s Coffee Sanctuary, 217 Wolf Rd., Colonie Trans Partners Group: provides support for people to discuss and explore their relationships with trans-identified or gender non-conforming individuals. Open to people currently in partnerships with trans-people or people exploring their gender identities. Monthly on Tuesdays at 5pm. Contact Faith Hoffman at faith@choicesconsulting.com for more information. Choices Counseling and Consulting, 523 Western Ave. Suite 2A Albany, NY 12203-1617, (518)438-2222

TRIVIA

Live Trivia with Frieda- Tuesdays ROCKS - 8-10pm 77 Central Ave, Albany, (518) 472-3588 Oh Bar - Wednesdays - 9pm-12am 304 Lark St., Albany, (518) 463-9004

SPECIAL COMMUNITY EVENTS Fetish a Night of Art - Thursday, October 22 - 6pm-10pm - ROCKS - 77 Central Ave, Albany, (518) 472-3588 - Come join us for the first Fetish Art Night at ROCKS. No vendor fee and no cover just a one drink minimum. This will be the kick off for Fetish weekend, so come out meet some of the area's best artists and have a good time. If you are interested in being a vendor please contact chainedbychuck@gmail.com Fall LGBT Dance - Saturday November 7- 7:30 pm-11:30pm - Colonie Elks Lodge-11 Elks Ln., Latham -COVER-$7.00 -Special Guest Performance by Singer Maureen DeLuke who will be singing 4 ballads. 50/50 Donation For the benefit of the SUICIDE PREVENTION. Eclectic Songs will be spinning your favorite dance hits from The Oldies to The Latest Top 40 Dance Hits. Requests will be taken at the Dance as well as providing Dance Videos. The Bar Will Be Open The Entire Dance! PLENTY OF SAFE PARKING!! PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD AND INVITE ALL YOUR FRIENDS—– ALL ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND!

Calendar

Reach over 30,000 readers in the Capital Regions LGBTQ and Allied community with your event. List here, it in the leading printed and most widely distributed LGBTQA calendar. Send the details of your event and a brief description to sminchin@capitalpridecenter.org by the 15th of the month preceding your event.

*CommUNITY prints 10 issues a year, with double issues in Dec/Jan & June/July *Event listings may be edited for space and content.

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P AID PERMIT #798 ALBANY, NY

332 Hudson Avenue Albany, NY 12210

“I would not be the woman leader that I am today without the influence of my openly gay older brother.”

-Christina Ryba

Christina Ryba

Candidate for 3rd JD Supreme Court Justice

Vote on November 3rd Your Vote Matters Now more than ever

ACBA Treasurer Appellate Court Attorney

Paid for by “Friends of Christina Ryba” www.christinaryba.com

Former Assistant Attorney General in Litigation