The Rodeo Rides into Town
Arizona Gay Rodeo gives LGBTQ community a taste of the cowboy lifestyle.
PLUS:
LGBT Film Festival Preview
LGBTQ NEWS, VIEWS AND ENTERTAINMENT | VOL. 27, #5 | ISSUE 677 | FEBRUARY 2016 | COMPLIMENTARY
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inside this issue Issue 677 | Vol. 27, #5 | February 2016
features
NEWS 10 4 Your Information 12 News Briefs 16 Datebook 19 Fluxx, Tucson’s queer performance cultural arts stage, is moving
PREVIEWS AND REVIEWS 44 Opening Nights 48 Recordings
Photo by Bill Gemmill.
50 Between the Covers
22 COMMUNITY
Photo courtesy of Phoenix Phantomz.
The Rodeo Rides into Town The Arizona Gay Rodeo gives LGBTQ community a taste of the cowboy lifestyle.
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Hit Like a Girl The Phoenix Phantomz gear up for another season of women’s full-contact football.
The Best of the Fest The seventh annual Desperado LGBT Film Festival brings top titles to Valley screens.
40
Lights, Camera, Sundance Annual film festival showcases a fierce lineup of LGBTQ-themed titles and talent.
53 Talking Bodies 54 All Over The Map 56 Money Talks
34
The Rodeo Rides into Town
Arizona Gay Rodeo gives LGBTQ community a taste of the cowboy lifestyle.
ON THE COVER Richie Josef (left) and Ruben Contreras at Charlie’s Phoenix. Photo by Fernando Hernández.
PLUS:
LGBT Film Festival Preview
LGBTQ NEWS, VIEWS AND ENTERTAINMENT | VOL. 27, #5 | ISSUE 677 | FEBRUARY 2016 | COMPLIMENTARY
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inside this issue
on echomag.com web exclusives
Cast for the Part of Art Find out what Marisa Hall Valdez, Desperado’s featured artist for 2016, had to say ahead of her showing. echomag.com/marisa-hall-valdez
Matthew Frias Akron star discusses his latest role ahead of his visit to the Valley as part of the Desperado LGBT Film Festival. echomag.com/matthew-frias
Those People Echo expert reviews the Desperado 2016 feature film about a young man named Charlie. echomag.com/those-people
Closet Monster Echo expert reviews a Desperado 2016 feature film that starring Isabella Rossellini. echomag.com/closet-monster
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notes from the
managing editor By KJ Philp facebook.com/echomagazine
Instagram: @echomagazineaz
twitter.com: @echomagaz
Linkedin: Echo Magazine
W
elcome to March Madness! What I mean by that is, the community has spring fever and there are countless ways to get out and get involved this time of year – many of which we have included for you in this issue. As part of the 12th Annual HRC Arizona gala Michael Sam, NFL’s first openly gay player, will join local leaders Devereux Arizona, Maria De Nicola and Dr. Toby Meltzer as they accept their respective awards Feb. 27. Tiffany Hopkins has all the details in “Stronger Together” on page 18. The Phoenix theater community invites you out to OUTLOUD, a production that spotlights local playwrights, directors and actors to showcase four one-act plays March 3-5. Lorraine Longhi sets the stage in “Stories from the Gayborhood” on page 22. For all our Tucson readers, there’s a different kind of fashion show – benefiting the Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation – hitting the runway March 6. Megan Wadding serves up the specifics in “Möda Provocateūr” on page 26. Then, Arizona State University’s LGBT Devils’ Pride will host its fourth annual scholarship benefit dinner, honoring student leaders, March 12. Anthony Costello “Passing the Pitchfork” on page 20. Radio Realness From there we head into our cover story. Whoever said, “Video Killed the Radio Star” had obviously never met Aneesh, the newest addition to Phoenix’s LIVE 101.5 cast. We caught up with the sassiest third of “The Morning Mess” to find out what inspired him to audition for this position and what his life has been like since hitting the airwaves in “LIVE with Aneesh” on page 30.
Speaking of radio stars, in honor of the 250th episode of “The Show with Clayton McKee,” Laura Latzko went live with the cast to celebrate this momentous occasion in “On with ‘The Show’” on page 34. The Adoption Option Additionally, Echo has the distinct honor of introducing you to two of Arizona’s newest families in this issue. First, Megan Wadding caught up with two Arizona dads – Matt Dallas and Blue Hamilton – to find out about their journey to adopt their new son, Crow. Find out more, including how Arizona’s Children Association helped them through the adoption process, in “The Adoption Option” on page 36. Next, Liz Massey sat down with Sharicka and Donna McHenry who are mothers to four newly adopted children, thanks to the rights and protections marriage equality has afforded them. Get to know this party of six in “New Year, New Family” on page 40. Cast Your Vote for the “Sweet 16” Last, but not least, voting for Echo’s 2016 Readers’ Choice Awards is officially underway. Be sure to vote for your favorite finalists by March 17. Then we’ll reveal the winners in all of the “Sweet 16” categories at the Phoenix Pride festival – be sure to join us from 3 to 5 p.m. at the community stage April 2. In the meantime, congratulations to all of the finalists! Team Echo wishes you all the best of luck!
KJ Philp is the managing editor of Echo Magazine and can be reached at kj@echomag.com.
LGBTQ NEWS, VIEWS AND ENTERTAINMENT PUBLISHER: Bill Orovan ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Bill Gemmill EDITORIAL MANAGING EDITOR: KJ Philp CONTRIBUTORS: Danae Barnes Cait Brennan Anthony Costello Tiffany Hopkins Laura Latzko Lorraine Longhi Art Martori Liz Massey
Melissa Myers David-Elijah Nahmod Tia Norris Hans Pedersen Terri Schlichenmeyer Richard Schultz Michael J. Tucker Megan Wadding
ART DEPARTMENT SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Jake Rojas PHOTOGRAPHY: Brittany Lea and Nightfuse.com. ADVERTISING DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING: Ashlee James ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVES: Adrian Bradley Gregg Edelman Randy Robinson NATIONAL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: Rivendell Media, 212-242-6863
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MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 16630 Phoenix, AZ 85011-6630 PHONE: 602-266-0550 NON-PHOENIX METRO: 888-echomag EMAIL: manager@echomag.com
Member:
Echo is currently seeking Phonix-based freelance restaurant reviewers
Qualified candidates are invited to send published restaurant/ food reviews to editor@echomag.com for consideration. 8|
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Echo Magazine is published by and is a trademark of ACE Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. Written permission must be obtained in advance for partial or complete reproduction of including any advertising material contained therein. Opinions expressed in are not necessarily those of the publisher or staff or ACE Publishing, Inc. does not assume responsibility for claims by its advertisers. Publication of the name or photograph of a person or organization in articles, advertising or listings inis not to be construed as an indication of the sexual orientation of such organizations or persons (unless such orientation is specifically stated). Manuscripts or other materials submitted remain the property of ACE Publishing. Free copies limited to one per person.
Photo courtesy of facebook. com/potus.
ON THE RECORD “My fellow Americans, whatever you may believe … our collective future depends on your willingness to uphold your obligations as a citizen. To vote. To speak out. To stand up for others, especially the weak, especially the vulnerable, knowing that each of us is only here because somebody, somewhere, stood up for us.” – President Barack Obama, Jan. 12 in his final State of the Union address.
sports L.A. Kings fans Brad Parr and Andy Evans locked lips on the arena’s “Kiss Cam” Jan. 17 during a game against the Toronto Maple Leafs. The couple’s kiss was met with the loudest cheers from throughout the crowd and the couple later told Outsports that this was something they had secretly hoped for.
travel
“It was a particularly sweet night since the Kings were playing and beat my hometown Toronto,” Parr told Outsports. “My parents and siblings live in L.A. but the rest of my family think I am a terrible traitor for being a Kings fan; I’ve lived in L.A. for 17 years.”
Cities with a population of 100,000 or more were considered and scored in the categories of “Transinclusive,” “Pink Pistols Chapter,” “MPV Unity Mosque,” “Gay Retirement Communities,” “LGBTFriendly Synagogues” and “Tours of Broadway Shows Wicked, The Book of Mormon and Kinky Boots. From there, according to advocate. com, “the raw score is divided by the population to provide a ranking based on a per capita LGBT quotient.”
BY the numbers
100
The score Phoenix, Tempe and Tucson received on the 2015 Human Rights Campaign Municipal Equality Index (MEI). Other Arizona cities included Chandler (63), Gilbert (30), Glendale (29), Mesa (50), Peoria (38) and Scottsdale (51). Scored are based on such criteria as “non-discrimination laws,” “law enforcement” and “relationship with the LGBT community.” The MEI demonstrates the ways that many cities can — and do — support the LGBT people who live and work there, even where states and the federal government have failed to do so For more information, or to see how other cities scored, visit hrc.org/resources/mei2015-see-your-citys-score. 10 |
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Dayton, Ohio, population 143,355, ranked No. 1 in the Advocate magazine’s raking on the “Queerest Cities in America 2015.”
To find out the top 25 cities, visit advocate.com/ print-issue/currentissue/2015/01/12/ queerest-citiesamerica-2015.
Photo courtesy of advocate.com. 4 your information
s .
news briefs
Community Church of Hope Celebrates 20 Years In honor of 20 years of service to the community as a spiritual center, the Community Church of Hope (CCH) is hosting a celebration as part of its Sunday morning services, at 9 and 11 a.m. March 13 at 4121 N. Seventh Ave. (entrance on Sixth Drive). As part of the 20th anniversary observation, each of the services will include special guests and music, which will be followed by a reception. According to a recent press release, the Community Church of Hope is a diverse group of people who are God centered and Christ driven to bring hope and love to all people. “We are Protestants, Catholics,
Mormons, Jehovah Witnesses, Jewish, agnostic, atheist, questioning and many more spiritual paths,” said Rev. Patrick Stout, CCH pastor who celebrated 45 years in ministry in 2015. “We are gay men, lesbians, straight, transgender, young, old, singles, couples and families.”
groups and we have received so much in return. Each one of us is a vital part of this community and it takes all of us to make it all work.” For more information on Community Church of Hope, or to make a donation, visit communitychurchofhope.com or call 602-234-2180.
Additionally, a special fundraiser for the church’s operating costs is underway with the goal of raising $10,000 ahead of the anniversary milestone. “The community has been so supportive of Community Church of Hope,” Stout said. “We have been blessed to be a part of this community and have been able to give to many people, organizations and
Safe Out Honors Local Leaders with Community Awards As part of its end of year party, A Circle of Light, Safe Out and the LGBTQ Consortium honored local leaders with awards recognition Dec. 19 at {9} The Gallery.
continuing efforts in collaboration to ensure that LGBTQ undocumented communities have access to high quality health care
The 2015 award recipients include:
Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence for ensuring that LGBTQ individuals who experience sexual and domestic violence will have a safe place to find and access supports.
Trans* Health Excellence Award
one n ten To Host Seventh Annual Fresh Brunch In celebration of 23 years of service to the Valley’s LGBTQ youth, one n ten is hosting its seventh annual Fresh Brunch from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 14 at the Arizona Biltmore’s Frank Lloyd Wright Ballroom. Lawrence Robinson (pictured)is the chair for this year’s event, and Bettina Nava and Frank McCune will serve as honorary co-chairs.
For more information, including tickets, visit onenten.org/ fresh-brunch. For sponsorship information, email Nathan Rhoton at nate@onenten.org.
According to onenten. org, all proceeds raised at 12 |
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Fresh Brunch will go directly toward one n ten’s mission of enhancing the lives the Valley’s LGBTQ youth by providing empowering social and service programs that promote self-expression, self-acceptance, leadership development and healthy life choices.
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Trans* Spectrum of Arizona for continuing to promote the health and wellness of the trans* community through peer support and education and awareness raising efforts. Above & Beyond Award Mercy Maricopa Integrated Care for continued dedication to the LGBTQ community through supporting prevention efforts and activities aimed at reducing substance use, binge drinking, and suicide. Community Partnership Awards Phoenix Pride for supporting Safe Out efforts in creating an alcohol and tobacco free zone at Pride, and offering additional training to alcohol vendors to help keep the community safe. Arizona Queer Undocumented Immigrant Project for
Community Impact and Collaboration Award
Individual Awards The following individuals have made significant contributions to Safe Out and the LGBTQ Consortium, and fulfilling its mission to support the health and wellness of LGBTQ communities across Arizona. Outstanding Safe Out Volunteers: Shane Sangster, Meryl Deles and Jennifer Flannery Outstanding Safe Out Supports: Felicia Minor and Emily Oake Outstanding Community Supports: Doreen Nichols, Tasha Menaker and Mel Rodis For more information, visit lgbtqconsortium.com/ safe-out. news briefs
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news briefs
March 11-13, 2016
Hance Park, Phoenix, AZ • mmmf.com
BECK KID CUDI THE
AVETT BROTHERS
PORTER
ROBINSONLIVE
ANIMAL
COLLECTIVE
Echo Launches All-New Readers’ Choice Awards for 2016 Each year, the Echo Magazine Readers’ Choice Awards recognize community favorites, chosen by you! From local leaders and performers to staged productions and places to wine and dine, we want you to tell us who is deserving of this honor in 2016. This year, to switch things up a little bit, we’ve narrowed it down to 16 super sweet and incredibly elite categories. They say less is more, and we concur. What that means is that these 16 categories have been intentionally redesigned to engage your creativity and open up the competition to more of your local favorites than ever before. For a complete listing of the Sweet 16 categories, see page 21. You’ll notice that the description wording is less restricting and we’re relying on your individual interpretation for nominations, votes and, ultimately, to determine the winners we’ll recognize later this year. Here’s how:
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Meet the Sweet 16 New Readers’ Choice Awards categories for 2016: 1. Local Trailblazer 2. Amazing Ally 3. Dazzling Advertiser 4. Politically Correct 5. FUNdraiser 6. Get Involved 7. Mark Your Calendar 8. Take The Stage 9. The Star of the Show
You’re invited to nominate your local favorites in our Sweet 16 categories at echomag.com/ sweet-16-noms. Nominate once a day (per IP address) to ensure your nominees are among the top five in each category that will proceed on to the voting phase.
11. Happiest Happy Hour
The top five finalists in each category will continue on to the voting phase, during FEBRUARY 2016
Winners, determined by your votes, will be revealed live at the annual Echo Readers’ Choice Awards ceremony, which takes place as part of Phoenix Pride’s 10 Days of Pride. Stay tuned for additional details.
Nomination phase: Jan. 4 – Feb. 12
Voting phase: Feb. 18 – March 17
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which you’re invited to visit echomag.com/sweet-16-vote to cast your votes once a day (per IP address). Don’t forget to spread the word via social media and use #EchoMagAZ.
10. Raise the Bar 12. Savor Local Flavor 13. Get Your Art On 14. Retail Therapy 15. Mind, Body, Soul 16. Get Sweaty
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Date book through feb. 12
As part of the nomination phase for the 2016 Echo Readers’ Choice Awards you’re invited to nominate your local favorites in our Sweet 16 categories. echomag.com/sweet-16-noms feb. 18 - Mar. 17
Once Team Echo has tallied the top five finalists in each category of the 2016 Echo Readers’ Choice Awards, you’re invited to vote for your favorites. echomag.com/ sweet-16-vote
jan. 28
jan. 20
The Arizona Diversity Council’s 2016 Kick Off Meeting, From 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Sagebrush Conference Room at 1850 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Suite 201 in Tempe. To RSVP for this meeting,alessandra.jaime@ nationaldiversitycouncil.org.
p.m. at the Corona Ranch and Rodeo Grounds, 7611 S. 29th Ave., Laveen, Ariz. (See story, page 24.) agra-phx.com feb. 12 - 14
arizonadiversitycouncil.org Gay Skate Arizona invites you to the Winter Edition of this all ages skating party from 8 to 11 p.m. at Great Skate Glendale, 10054 N. 43rd Ave. facebook.com/groups/gayskateaz jan. 27
jan. 29 - 31
The seventh annual Desperado LGBT Film Festival will screen nine feature films and 11 assorted LGBTQ short films at Paradise Valley Community College’s Center for Performing Arts, 18401 N. 32nd St., Phoenix. (See story, page 34.) desperadofilmfestival.com
The Arizona Gay Rodeo Association presents the 31st annual Arizona Gay Rodeo, a weekend filled with events and entertainment, at the Corona Ranch and Rodeo Grounds, 7611 S. 29th Ave., Laveen, Ariz. (See story, page 22.) agra-phx.com feb. 14
feb. 6 - Mar. 27
Art Night Out presents Estate of the Union, a financial planning workshop for LGBTQ couples, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Ave. phxart.org
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The annual Arizona Renaissance Festival and Artisan Marketplace, featuring new shops and entertainment, is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays at the Festival Village, 12601 E. Highway 60, Gold Canyon. royalfaires.com/arizona feb. 5
The Greater Phoenix Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce will host its monthly luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Artizen in The Camby Hotel, 2401 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix. RSVP at phoenixgaychamber.com. feb. 12
As part of the Arizona Gay Rodeo weekend, Country Idol 2016 finalists will take the stage at 9
one n ten’s seventh annual Fresh Brunch, a celebration of service to the Valley’s LGBTQ youth, will take place at the Arizona Biltmore, 2400 E. Missouri Ave., Phoenix. onenten.org/fresh-brunch feb. 27
HRC Arizona’s 12th annual gala, including reception, silent auction and dinner, will begin at 5 p.m. at the Sheraton Grand Phoenix, 340 N. Third St., Phoenix. hrcazgala.org
MARK OUR CALENDARS
To have your event considered for Echo’s print and online calendars, submit your event details to echomag.com/ community-calendar. All submissions are subject to Echo’s discretion. events
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OUT & ABOUT Barbra Seville’s Golden Wighead Awards Jan. 15 at The Rock, Phoenix. Photos by Fernando Hernández.
For more Echo photos visit echomag.com/gallery.
1840 W. Maryland Ave Suite D, Phoenix, AZ 85015 (602) 242-9891 • www.AZNeuroMod.com Appointments Available: Monday - Friday 7am to 4pm
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In Fluxx
Tucson’s queer performance cultural arts stage is changing locations. By Megan Wadding
F
luxx Productions, Tucson’s queer performance cultural arts stage – the first and only of its kind in the entire Southwest – is changing locations. According to Dante Celeiro (pictured, center), Fluxx Productions executive director, Fluxx will move into a new space over the next few weeks.
Photo courtesy of facebook.com/ fluxxstudioandgallery.
Fluxx houses multiple community events throughout the year and plans to do even more with its new space in 2016.
“Whether it is [money] or even a gift card or paints or whatever, we’ll take it,” Celeiro said. “I’m all up for trade too. I love the barter system. I will trade the use of the space for help.”
“You name it, we do it at Fluxx,” Celeiro said, “everything from art exhibitions to screenings performances, workshops, classes, private and public events, open mics and really whatever anyone wants to do.”
According to Celeiro, a large part of what Fluxx has been working on in the past year and the majority of what they will work on in the new year is outreach – especially with concern to teens and young people.
Due to recent financial woes, Celeiro said Fluxx had rounded out 2015 in survival mode.
“Our youth just don’t have a place to go,” Celeiro said. “A safe space for them is definitely top of my list. I didn’t have a space like this when I growing up. It’s a big deal,”
“There are so many things we’ve been wanting to do, but all we can think about is keeping our doors option,” Celeiro said. “The goal for 2016 is to be able to keep expanding on the things we’ve been doing.” The plan had always been to keep the space Fluxx currently occupies and for Celeiro to eventually buy the building, but due to many unforeseen events and a recent change in Arizona’s liquor laws, that was just not possible. Celeiro explained that Fluxx will be moving to a new space (414 E. Ninth St.) that is only about a five-minute drive from the current space. “Configuration wise, the space is actually bigger than the one we are at now, so our capacity will be bigger,” Celeiro said. “We’ll have to put in a larger stage, which will make a lot of people very happy. I’m really excited.” Accoridng to Celeiro, the goal is to be open and fully functioning in the new space by Feb. 1. “We would still be able to go ahead and not stop any of our classes and support groups and just work on the space slowly,” Celeiro said, adding that Fluxx still plans on holding classes and support groups through January. Donations and community will play a huge part in the creation and upkeep of the new space, according to Celeiro.
For more information, visit fluxxproductions.com, like “Fluxx Studio & Gallery” on Facebook or follow @yourfluxx on Twitter. Megan Wadding is a freelance writer and travel addict with a degree in journalism. Follow her on Twitter at @MeganWadding.
STUDIO Z
Celeiro, who is from New York City, said he does not remember having a safe space for LGBTQ youth and that he worries for young people without a safe space. “There are youth out there that are homeless, that are struggling and struggling to come out, and the suicide risk has increased,” Celeiro said. “The transgender community has had a major spotlight in the past year, but there are still murders happening. Our young people need safe spaces and I want that to continue to be at Fluxx.”
imagine-design-create 4200 N Marshall Way, Suite 6 • Scottsdale, AZ 85251 casual shopping monday - friday • call for hours also available by appointment
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Phone: 480-941-3995 • Cell: 480-330-0459
www.studioz-az.com EchoMag.com
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Nominate your Sweet 16! Submit your nominations before Feb. 12 at echomag.com/sweet-16-noms.
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Meet the Sweet 16! 2016 Readers’ Choice Awards Categories: 6 1
Local Trailblazer
They lead. They fundraise. They volunteer. They organize. They do it all. Now we want you to nominate them!
2
Amazing Ally
LGBTQ allies are everywhere. We wouldn’t be the community we are today without them. It’s time to recognize the best of the best and thank them for taking a stand with us and for us!
3
Dazzling Advertiser
For more than 26 years, our advertisers have made Echo possible (and kept it free to you). Now it’s time to congratulate them on a job well done – meaning, we want to know which ad campaign (featured in our pages) wowed you the most!
4
Politically Correct
This is your ballot to let us know which elected official, political movement or campaign had the biggest impact on you throughout the past year!
5
FUNdraiser
Which local charity fundraising event best puts the FUN in fundraising?
Get Involved
Tell us your favorite LGBTQ nonprofit organization or cause to be a part of.
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Mark Your Calendar
Which community event or festival is on your can’t-miss list?
8
Take The Stage
Nominate the local music groups, theater troupes, drag shows/pageants or other staged production that brings out the fanatic in you!
9
The Star of the Show
From hosts/hostesses to DJs and drag performers to emcees, now is your chance to get your favorite local entertainers recognized.
10
Raise the Bar
Whether it’s trivia, karaoke, darts or dance, our local bars serve as much more than just watering holes. Now it’s time to nominate your favorite!
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Happiest Happy Hour
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Savor Local Flavor
You don’t have to be a professional foodie to let us know the most delicious spot to wine and dine.
13 Get Your Art On We want to know the best places for taking in all forms of creative expression (galleries, museums, events, venues, shows).
14 Retail Therapy From retail and services to entertainment and accommodations, where is the best place to spend your money locally?
15 Mind, Body, Soul Where do you go for fellowship, support, worship, spirituality or Zen (center, church, group, congregation)?
16 Get Sweaty Everyone has a favorite team, athlete, gym, sporting event or league, and we want to know yours.
Where do you prefer to stop and wet your whistle before heading home from a long day at work? EchoMag.com
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feature story
Photo by Bill Gemmill.
The Rodeo Rides into Town Arizona Gay Rodeo weekend gives LGBTQ community a taste of the cowboy lifestyle By Laura Latzko
E
ach February, rodeo weekend beckons cowboys and cowgirls from around the country back to the Wild, Wild West to kick off a new season of competition. For competitors, the Arizona Gay Rodeo is the first of the year in the International Gay Rodeo Association (IGRA) circuit. For spectators, it’s a weekend filled with events and entertainment. The 31st annual Arizona Gay Rodeo will take place from Feb. 12 to 14, at the Corona Ranch and Rodeo Grounds in Laveen, Ariz. According to Todd Wyckoff, AGRA president, the goal is to get different groups of the LGBTQ community involved with the rodeo. “The biggest thing that we are trying to work on is letting people know that rodeo is not just for people who compete,” he said. “It’s really a great time to come out and hang out at the rodeo grounds.” According to Arizona Gay Rodeo 22 |
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Association coordinators, two of the major additions this year include a Grammy nominated headliner and a free pool party.“We are extremely honored and excited to announce [that] headlining at the 31st annual Arizona Gay Rodeo [is] Grammy-nominated and Dove Award-winning multiplatinum country artist Ty Herndon,” said Richie Josef, Arizona Gay Rodeo Association entertainment director. Herndon and special guest, singer-songwriter Anita Cochran, will take the rodeo stage on the evening of Feb. 13 (Saturday), and the concert is included with rodeo admission. Additionally, a free rodeo weekend kick off pool party, featuring DJ Mic Mixxers, will take place at from 1 to 7 p.m. Feb. 12
Ty Herndon. Photo courtesy of facebook. com/tyherndon.
(Friday) at Hotel 502 in Phoenix, the rodeo’s official host hotel. By incorporating additional events bringing in headliners, Wyckoff said, AGRA is offering more for both rodeo contestants and attendees to do throughout the weekend. “The people that are coming into town will have something to go do on Friday during the day,” Wyckoff said. “It’s a way to get a new audience to learn more about the rodeo and encourage them to go out to the rodeo grounds.” saddle up!
According to Bob Pimentel, Arizona Gay Rodeo director and co-founder of the New Mexico Gay Rodeo Association, each rodeo has its own distinctive flavor, but they all feel like “family reunions.”
Since 2013, Pimentel said AGRA has given more than $10,000 a year – from rodeo profits, bar tips and drink sales – to local organizations such as the Joshua Tree Feeding Program, PFLAG, one n ten and the Community Church of Hope. the rodeo stage
As part of the rodeo festivities, the reigning AGRA titleholders – Mr. AGRA Jeffrey Smit, Miss AGRA Mipsey Michaels aka Michael Butts and Mistr AGRA 2015 Rusty Bolts aka Sharon Starks – will prepare to pass on their crowns to the 2016 pageant winners. Throughout the years, AGRA royalty has had a strong presence in the international
Charming, Aimee V Justice’s Fresh Faces and Sharie Cherie & The Haus of Fame. Additionally, Josef added, that Tradiciones Dance Company, a Phoenixbased folkloric dance company; Barefoot & Pregnant, a live band; and mariachi singers Jesus Osuna and Jennifer Ortiz will return to the rodeo’s entertainment line up again this year. “All of our spectacular entertainers donate their time and talent to make sure we have an amazing rodeo weekend full of fun, talent and great memories,” Josef said. “Without community [Arizona Gay Rodeo] would not exist … and we thank you all from the bottom of our hearts!”
Pimentel attributes this atmosphere to one key distinction: At gay rodeos, contestants support each other. “There’s a camaraderie with the contestants, where they help each other,” he said. “They’re competitive, but they’re not cutthroat. They always work together, help each other and root for each other.” Throughout the weekend, contestants will compete in such standard rodeo events as calf roping on foot, pole bending, steer riding, bull riding, chute dogging and barrel racing. Additionally, gay rodeos feature camp events, which include steer decorating, goat dressing and wild drag race. “Those [events] were created back when we began rodeo, to get people who’ve never been in an arena or who’ve never been around livestock involved,” Pimentel said. Around 90 contestants, both male and female competing at different levels, take part in the rodeo each year. Pimentel added that he expects a more even split of men and women this year than in prior years. In each event, contestants are awarded points, buckles and prize money. “The contestants [take it seriously], especially those who do more events and are out there to get more points to go to finals and go for one of the big titles,” Pimentel said. “There isn’t a whole lot of money in it, especially for horse events [but] they love it. It’s part of who they are.” This year, there will be 11 IGRA rodeos throughout the country, culminating with The World Gay Rodeo Finals in Las Vegas Oct. 21-23. According to Pimentel, organizations such as AGRA not only provide opportunities for the cowboys and cowgirls to compete in inclusive environments, but also continue to help to spread the western lifestyle within the LGBTQ community.
AGRA’s 2015 titleholders with Claudia Bee. Photo by Bill Gemmill.
system. with one or more titleholders going on to represent Arizona. Past AGRA royalty who have gone on to become international titleholders include, Bolts and Michaels (2015 first runners up), Pussy LeHoot, Ionna Doublewide and Victoria London. In addition to the AGRA royalty pageant and performances by and past and present AGRA and IGRA royalty, the rodeo stage will showcase a wide variety of local entertainers. “This years entertainment line up is amazing,” Josef said. “We have the best entertainers that Arizona has to offer.” According to Josef, attendees can expect drag performers, including Savannahs Stevens & The Arizona Gender Outlaws, Karime Lizaldi, the Arizona Entertainer of the Year family, Viva La Diva, the BS West Elements Female Impersonation Show, the arizonadrag. com showcase, Eddie Broadway’s Boiz, Mipsy’s Royal Showcase, Ruby Reynolds’ Fuego Hour, the New Gigs on the Block with Felicia Minor and Freddy Prinze
Rodeo School Anyone interested in trying rodeo events for the first time, or even sharpening their skills, is invited to participate in AGRA’s rodeo school Feb. 12. Rodeo school will include a barrel racing clinic from 9:30 to 11 a.m. and hands-on classes on chute dogging, steer decorating, calf roping on foot and steer riding from 11:15 a.m. to 4 p.m. The clinic costs $50 per person, and the classes are $20 each. Pre-registration is available at agraphx.com/rodeoschool.shtml.
The 31st Arizona Gay Rodeo Feb. 12-14 Corona Ranch and Rodeo Grounds 7611 S. 29th Ave., Laveen, Ariz. Hours: 5 p.m.-close, Friday; 9 a.m.-close, Saturday and Sunday Admission: single-day ticket, $15 rodeo; weekend pass, $25 agra-phx.com
Laura Latzko is a Phoenix-area freelance writer, originally from Michigan, who holds a bachelor’s degree in English and communication studies from Hollins University and a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Missouri. EchoMag.com
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Country Idol 2016
Annual karaoke competition culminates on the rodeo stage By KJ Philp
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o kick off rodeo weekend, the top contestants in the Valley’s annual karaoke competition will compete for the title of AGRA Country Idol 2016. The sixth annual competition will take place Feb. 12 at 9 p.m. at the Corona Ranch and Rodeo Grounds in Laveen, Ariz. To qualify for the finals, contestants must participate – and win – a preliminary contest at local bar. Prelims, hosted by Brandon Thomas and Sasha Sinclair, started at the Rock on Dec. 7 and will continue Jan. 22 at OZ, Jan. 26 at Charlie’s, Feb. 1 at Karamba, Feb. 3 at Cash Inn Country and Feb. 4 at Anvil. The winner of Country Idol 2016 receives the opportunity to perform during the Arizona Gay Rodeo, Kenny Chesney and Ellie Goulding concert tickets, an autographed guitar from Hensley Distribution (Bud Light) and other prizes. Echo caught up with Richie Josef (pictured), Arizona Gay Rodeo Association entertainment director, to find our more about this year’s competition. Echo: In your words, why should our
readers come tryout and/or support the AGRA Country Idol competition? Josef: This is such a fun and inviting event and we strive to make this year’s competition very diverse and open to all! We have changed a few rules and we have opened the playing field to make this years competition much more inviting. Echo: Is it true that you don’t necessarily have to sing country song to compete? Josef: This is true! We have learned from previous Country Idols that not everyone knows country and sometimes it is hard to sing a song or genre you are not 100 percent comfortable with, so we’ve changed things up a bit. Now contestants may choose songs from any genre, but the only request is that if you make it to the finale to have at least one song with a country twist. We made this change to be more diverse in our competition and to allow other singers who did not feel they could compete in previous years [the chance] to be included. Echo: With 13 prelims, each taking place at a different local bar, what does community mean to the Country Idol competition? Josef: Like anything we put our name on, we truly take pride in our efforts and we want to make sure that every venue, community member and social sub-community are all included. We are working hard to bring the LGBTQ community together for an amazing event that everybody will continue to talk about each year. Echo: What’s the atmosphere of the prelims like?
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Josef: Just like any other competition, nerves are high. The difference is that most of our prelim contestants are at their home bar/club of choice. So that tends to make it a little bit easier. Our hosts Sophia Sinclair and Brandon Thomas are just a hoot. They have an amazing stage and showman
presence that keeps the audience and contestants laughing all night. Echo: What are the rules for trying out? Josef: It’s really simple actually, just show up at least 15 to 30 minutes prior to the start time and pick out two songs … The contestants [then perform] for the judges and each song is judged from 1 to 10, with 1 being the lowest and 10 being the highest. Once the competition is complete we do a final tally of points and bring the top two contestants on stage, the judges then pick the winner with audience participation. Echo: Can you explain the process for advancing in the competition to us? Josef: We have one winner and a runner up from each prelim. The winner will go to the finale and represent their participating venue. If, for some reason, the winner will not be able to make it to the finale, then the runner up will go in their place. At the finale there will be the winners from each venue, so a total of 13 contestants, competing to be the winner of Country Idol 2016! Echo: What would you say to anyone interested that just might not have the guts to tryout? Josef: We would love to extend an invite to anyone who would like to compete or is even thinking about competing. This tour has been so much fun and we have made tons of friends and new supporters. We recommend coming in, getting a little bit of liquid courage in you and singing out those lungs, baby, because you have a rodeo to perform at! To find out more about Country Idol, visit on.fb.me/1P12E4T or search “Country Idol 2016” on Facebook.
KJ Philp is the managing editor of Echo Magazine and can be reached at kj@echomag.com.
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Photo by Fernando Hernández.
Western Exposure
One of Phoenix’s original cowboys recalls the early days of Charlie’s and AGRA By KJ Philp
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hings were shaking in Phoenix as early freedoms that started developing in the as 1982, when a small group traveled ‘60s. The hustler bars were considered the to the Reno rodeo and Tish Tanner 307, Cruising on Central, and the Ramrod. won the title of Miss Reno National Gay Farrah’s on East Thomas and Tommy Rodeo. and Clydes’ “Fat Fingers” were a bit more upscale. Arizona came to life in the fall of 1984 when John King (pictured) decided to open The gay men’s and women’s scenes were a second Charlie’s in Phoenix. King and operating side by side but still separate. Kenny Cunitz lived and breathed rodeo, I remember trying to enter the Incognito and it was only a matter of weeks before twice in 1983 and was denied both the Arizona Gay Rodeo Association (AGRA) times. It was OK, I was just curious. Both formed. Bronco’s on 16th Street and Cattlemen’s on Camelback drew a small Country & By December 1984, the new group Western (C&W) crowd, but there was no targeted January 1986 for their first rodeo. dancing. Arizona became the fifth state to host a gay Echo: What did rodeo and AGRA is one Charlie’s bring to this city of the five founding that it didn’t have before? members of the King: Few people International Gay Rodeo realize how important Association (IGRA) and the early Reno Gay privileged to hold the Rodeos were in Arizona heat for the empowering the International Rodeo formerly invisible C&W league. gay community. To That’s how the story have 20,000 gay “city goes, according to agrafolk” wildly applauding phx.com. And, ahead of gay men and women the 31st annual Arizona riding horses in cowboy Gay Rodeo, Echo caught hats was a real game up with King to find out changer for this slice of Photo courtesy what’s changed and of gayrodeohistory.org. our community. In the what’s stayed the same meantime, C&W singing since the early days. artists had started recording on 64 tracks, which allowed their Echo: What was the bar and gay scene songs to be enhanced like never before. like in Phoenix when you opened Charlie’s When you add lights, dancing and a sense in 1982? of community, this created a new home King: The Phoenix gay bar scene in that encouraged many of these C&W gay the early ‘80s was dominated by a quiet, people to come out of the shadows … I just behind-the-scenes man named Dale wanted to develop a new market, which Williams. While his institutions, the accepted gay people without trying to Connection and Taylors, were prospering, change their values, priorities and the way there was a gay area forming along East they were dressed. McDowell. These bars included Hot Bods, Echo: In your words, why is Charlie’s The Forum, Sammy’s, Solid Gold, with the important for AGRA and vice versa? anchor being Traxx. All these bars were pre-AIDS and they reflected the new King: We didn’t realize it at the time, 26 |
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but we were involved in organizing a gay sporting activity that was designed to be used on an interstate level. Its success and popularity has prompted numerous other sporting activities to become national. We take this for granted now, but gay rodeo was on the ground floor of this concept. It takes the involvement of many to pull off a successful sporting event like a gay rodeo. Charlie’s customers were yearning for involvement in a gay event in which they felt comfortable. The objectives of both organizations were so closely paralleled that an association with each other has formed that has lasted more than 30 years. Echo: What does rodeo mean to you today? King: The market requires every organization to re-evaluate and make changes and, at times, I have been impatient with how slowly gay rodeo has adjusted to this new century. However, it is still providing a forum for men and women to visibly demonstrate their C&W lifestyle as well as show off their skills as athletes. Gay rodeo has morphed into a country fair atmosphere, which includes royalty, dancing, entertainment, food, booths and meeting old and new friends. Because of all the other well-organized sporting events that have come on to the scene, it is not as well attended as it was in the ‘80s and ‘90s but, it is still a great outdoors community party. Echo: If you could say one thing to our readers who have never checked out rodeo weekend, what would it be? King: You can be sure the party will include you, too!
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READ THE REST For Echo’s full interview with John King, visit echomag.com/john-king.
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feature story
Hit Like a Girl Phoenix Phantomz gear up for another season of women’s full-contact football By Art Martori
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evitt Park in south Phoenix is a broad expanse of yellow, signaling the onset of winter and approach of the 2016 season for the Independent Women’s Football League, one of three full-contact, 11-on-11 semi-professional organizations in the United States with exclusively females taking the gridiron. The Phoenix Phantomz, one of the two teams like this in Arizona, is holding its first tryout. Some 25 players are competing for six open spots in this year’s starting lineup. Dry grass swirls around their feet as Phantomz hopefuls run through drill after drill, split into groups for the offensive and defensive lines, and skill positions such as quarterback, receiver and the defensive secondary. Standing in three rows, like Marines on parade, women trying out for the offensive and defensive lines await the coach’s go word, and then break into menacing crouches, palms out, sliding left or right to funnel imaginary opponents. Nearby, offensive and defensive skill players stand in separate groups. Opposing pairs run long, straight routes beneath a coach’s lofting spiral, and one group or the other gives an enthusiastic cheer as passes result in receptions, deflections or interceptions. It’s a clear day in late November, with temperatures hovering around the mid60s, cool enough for comfort with the intense physical activity, warm enough in the low sun to warrant frequent water breaks at coolers set up on the park’s 28 |
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industrial concrete tables. Lounging nearby on a folding chair is general manager Tabitha McBride. To the veteran players she’s known affectionately as “Momma Tabs” for her dedication to the team. McBride’s duties cover scheduling tryouts and practices, reserving venues, hiring volunteer coaches – many with professional experience – and recruiting a support cadre that includes medical trainers and an administrative staff. McBride also remains active in Phoenix’s LGBTQ community, which she estimates to make up about 90 percent of the team. Undoubtedly, the Phoenix Phantomz might seem a bit cliquish to outsiders – a sort of social organization for gay women. But not all of the players identify as lesbian; some of them maintain serious girl-boy relationships. And those most active in the Phoenix Phantomz demonstrate a level of commitment and skill that’s not only indicative of realdeal football players, but of competitive athletes in general. At one point, a curious woman walks up to McBride to inquire about the goingson. She’d like to play, but knows little to nothing about football. “Don’t worry,” McBride offers her a matronly smile. “We can teach you everything you need to know.” McBride steers me toward two of the team’s veteran players: co-captains Amber Hartley, #37, who plays both offensive and defensive line, and Desiree
Belliard, #44, a fullback on offense and linebacker on defense. Hartley owns where she walks, with a deliberate gait, broad shoulders and broad jaw, her brow perpetually furrowed beneath a backward ballcap worn low. Belliard has sincere, dark features, hair always pulled back tight into a ponytail and, as Hartley jokes when we meet up later, “the best ass on the field.” 1,000 Percent committed
I catch up with them some weeks later at Hamburger Works, a popular stopover for fans at nearby Phoenix College’s Hoy Stadium. Throughout the restaurant hangs football memorabilia of St. Mary’s Catholic High School and Brophy College Preparatory, whose devotees fill this place each year for the rivalry game across the street. I want to kick myself as I approach the table, realizing I proposed a time that coincides with the Arizona Cardinals’ eventual 27-to-3 pounding of the St. Louis Rams. It’s not a problem, though, for Hartley and Belliard, Dallas Cowboys and Oakland Raiders fans, respectively. They admit it’s just another lazy Sunday, one of few remaining before Phantomz football consumes much of their free time. Although both veterans insist they’re “semi-retired” – and unsure if they’ll play in the upcoming season – what immediately follows are the kind of eyerolling chuckles that usually go hand-inhand with little white lies.
Indeed, what becomes more apparent the more we talk football is an enormous dedication to the game, to their team and to the community surrounding Phoenix Phantomz football. That’s what keeps them coming back. But it’s not for everyone. Many women quickly discover they can’t balance the commitment required of a semi-professional athlete with another full-time job; the veterans estimate it can cost players around $600 to equip themselves the first time, with team dues on top of that. “Once football starts, we are 1,000 percent committed,” Harley says. A few struggle with conditioning and technique. Then there’s always that first bone-jarring hit on the gridiron, a snotbubble-inducing epiphany that you simply aren’t cut out for full-contact football. “We tell them to get the initial hit out of the way,” Belliard says. “You have padding and a helmet on for a reason. It’s not going to hurt ... that much. “You can kind of tell, when they’re inching to the back of the line because they’re watching others get laid out,” Belliard says of terrified rookies. “Then all of the sudden something hurts and they can’t participate in the drill,” she laughs. Holding a special place for Hartley are the ones who can’t keep it together off the field. Phantomz players are a social group. Playing for the team means there’s a certain amount of prestige. But with Momma Tabs’ considerable work to establish the Phantomz within the LGBTQ community comes the expectation that players act as ambassadors, especially when they’re wearing team gear. Condolences to anyone Hartley catches engaged in “jackassery” after too many drinks.
handle them with the kind of Bill Belichickesque directness that boys might expect. “You can’t talk to women the same way you talk to men,” Hartley explains. “You can’t coach them that way. You can yell and scream at a man, and he’s just gonna be like, ‘OK.’ A girl is probably going to get emotional. She might cry. She might tell you to eff off.” The veteran players give credit to head coach Donnie Meader, a man who they say balances his deep knowledge of the game with an innate ability to connect with players who might be intimidated or just plain lost. When I catch up with him on the phone, Meader says it’s not that big a deal coaching women. Coaching is coaching, he says, and football is football. “Football is football. Whether it’s male or female. You still put the helmet on. You still put cleats on,” Meader tells me. “I coach the same way whether it’s high school kids or adults. I coach hard, but I coach fair. There’s no need for [yelling at players]. I hated when I had coaches like that. You can’t constantly do that with players. You have to approach it with a different mannerism. Make it fun, but get your point across.” Meader, a special educator, also coaches offensive and defensive line at Phoenix’s Barry Goldwater High School. He’s a former collegiate player who continued his football career professionally overseas. This year for the Phantomz, Meader tells me, look for the pistol offense with a 4-3, one of the most common defensive sets in football. The pistol offense has emerged in recent years as a popular hybrid of the shotgun,
typically used for passing, and sets that favor running plays. In the pistol, the Phantomz are able to effectively pass or run, and Meader can adjust based on what he sees on the field. “[Calling plays] basically depends on what you have and knowing your players,” Meader explains. “The pistol set gives you more options.” But even with his easy-to-adjust sets, Meader says he sometimes sees confusion on players’ faces as he explains plays. That’s where his co-captains come in. Rather than holding up practice for a detailed explanation, enter Hartley or Belliard, Meader’s co-captains, who are astute when it comes to seeing when a teammate needs one-on-one attention. “It helps a lot. Desiree and Amber are great to have around,” Meader confirms. “Those are my coaches for public relations with the players. When I’m going over my whole schemes and players get those perplexed looks, that’s where they step in.” The co-captains say they also pay close attention to players’ technique. With teammates, it’s an opportunity to share something that might otherwise take years to learn. It can also be a huge advantage when they’re playing against women with little experience. Hartley says she’s quick to tip off coaches when she knows she has that type of an advantage. “Being on the line, I can tell what direction they’re going because they only have one move,” Hartley explains. “I can go back to the coaches and tell them this hole is going to be open all day. I’m going to own this girl because she’s doing the same thing every time.”
“I’ve physically carried someone out of the building because of how they were acting,” she says. “I have no problem putting someone in their place. The way I look at it, Tabitha has worked very hard to get the team’s name out there, and us as older players have worked our butts off to get recognized. We’re not gonna let some punk, some bad decision, affect what we’ve worked so hard to build.” football is football
It’s not difficult to comprehend how challenging it is to play for the Phantomz – the roster cuts, the cost, the commitment, the blood, sweat and tears. But then, consider what it’s like to coach the Phantomz. Most of these players didn’t grow up idolizing NFL greats or skinning their knees in front-yard tackle-football games, like so many boys have. You can’t expect female players to come into it with a built-in understanding of playing the game. And you certainly can’t expect to be able to EchoMag.com
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favorable odds
It’s a cold day for the Phantomz second tryout, early December with lows in the mid-40s under a slate gray sky. The players, as usual, are enthusiastic and attentive. Meader and Hartley are demonstrating some of the finer points of playing on the line. Across the field, quarterback candidates lob long bombs to closely guarded receivers. Bundled in thick winter wear, McBride observes nearby. She says she’s pleased by the strong turnout, as fewer players than expected dropped out. Usually, she says, quite a few have quit by now, so it’s hard to get a good idea of how the roster might develop come their first practice. “Once January comes, they see the commitment and how we work out,” McBride says. “We get a lot that go, ‘Oh, I don’t want to do that,’ and they drop off.” Harley and Belliard both say the level of physical conditioning required to play is often the thing that leads players to quit. Most women come out for the team because they want the full-contact experience of hitting and tackling, but become discouraged once they realize endurance, not just toughness, is a huge part of the game. The veteran co-captains say they stay in pretty good shape throughout the
year, rather than rushing to get fit once the season starts. Hartley hits the gym at least three times each week, focusing on cardio and a few strength exercises, like deadlifts and squats. Belliard also tries to get into the gym at least a couple times a week, and also hops on the treadmill during her lunch breaks or runs bleachers at a school nearby. Still, Harley says, it can be a shock to realize what it’s like to maintain this kind of activity. “Your body’s like, ‘What the hell?!’ Your muscles are working differently,” she says. “It’s a whole different kind of preparation.” Meader notes this year’s strong turnout bodes well for the upcoming season. Although it’s early and anything could happen, Meader maintains his hope of developing a strong offensive line, adding that most teams falter in a couple key areas: sloppy play on the line and simply not having enough players to keep rosters full. He says this year’s key matchup will come when the Phantomz take the field against the Utah Falconz, a team that lost last year’s championship game but prior to that went undefeated, putting up 50 to 60 points per game as they took down
opponents. According to Meader, the Falconz have all the right resources. “Numbers make a big difference,” he says of the Falconz’ deep roster. “They’re really well coached, too.” The Phoenix Phantomz take on the Utah Falconz Apr. 9, with the time and location still to be determined. Already looking ahead, Meader says his returning players, matched with a strong crop of rookies, might be the right combination for a good year. “I like our odds,” he says. “The outlook for the season is looking pretty nice.” For more information on the Phoenix Phantomz, visit phoenixphantomz.com or like Phoenix Phantomz on Facebook. Art Martori is a Phoenix-based freelance writer who contributes to various newspapers and magazines.
APRIl 2, 2016
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Hottest Ticket In Phoenix For 2016 Run Or Walk Awesome Courses Through Central Phoenix Professionally Timed & USATF Certified Amazing Medals, Awards, Certificates & SWAG Free Admission Art Festival & Fitness Expo Fri & Sat Rainbow Charity Challenge
REGISTER ONLINE: PRIDERUN.PHXFR.ORG Sign up now and SAVE 15%. Use ECHO10 and save an additional $10 OFF Half Marathon or Half Marathon Combo Pack. Use ECHO5 and save an additional $5 OFF 10K, 10K Combo Pack or 5K. Discounts good through 1/31/16. Produced by:
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FEATURE
OUT & ABOUT Pride Guide Anniversary Dinner Jan. 16 at the Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel Photos by Bill Gemmill.
For more Echo photos visit echomag.com/gallery.
OUT & ABOUT Trans* Spectrum Gala Jan. 16 at the Southwest Center For HIV/AIDS, Phoenix. Photos by KJ Philp.
For more Echo photos visit echomag.com/gallery.
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Feature Story
The Best of the Fest
Desperado LGBT Film Festival brings top titles to Valley screens By Hans Pedersen
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rom transgender roller derby players and gay sports heroes to tattooed suburban moms and hot cops in love, the 2016 Desperado LGBT Film Festival has something for everyone on the rainbow spectrum. The seventh annual festival, which will include screenings of nine feature films and 11 assorted LGBTQ short films, will run from Jan. 29 to 31 at Paradise Valley Community College. Created by Paradise Valley Community College students in 2010, the Desperado LGBT Film Festival has blossomed into an annual Valley tradition that includes music, vendors, an LGBT art gallery, Q&A and discussion sessions. Today, Desperado is also a student club at PVCC, and as incoming students replace those who have moved on, the club continues to work with a core group of community members who assist with all aspects of the festival. According to Dale Heuser, sports science faculty member at PVCC, the hybrid model works well for the annual event, with the school’s employees and members of the Valley all providing input to help guarantee the annual festival is a success. In return, festival proceeds benefit the school’s scholarships and college diversity events. “We’re pretty happy with it,” Heuser said of the roster, adding that this year’s festival offers “a very strong lineup.”
This time around, the process of choosing which films to include in the event was different than in prior years, explained Maryanne Holms, better known as Maryanne Marttini, a Valley-based stand-up comic and one of the selection committee members. “We divided the selections this year to make it easier,” Marttini said. “I really pretty much worked on the transgender films, because that’s what I am.” According to Marttini, she first became involved with the festival a few years ago when she came across a Desperado booth during a local pride event. “I think our system will produce the best festival here,” she remarks, pointing out how last year’s festival was also strong, with and an estimated 1,500 attendees and the enchanting trans film Boy Meets Girl landing the audience award.
Scene I – Jan. 29 This year Desperado kicks off with a free 8 a.m. screening of Out to Win Jan. 29. This documentary profiles prominent gay and lesbian sports figures, and features interviews with everyone from tennis legend Billie Jean King to former NFL player Wade Davis. The screening of this sports documentary will be followed by a discussion about the benefits of being out and proud when it comes to workplace
productivity. According to Heuser, the discussion will cover how “being in the closet impacts employee performance and impacts recruitment.” You may want to bring along the Kleenex for the award-winning tearjerker Akron, which officially kicks off this year’s festival at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 29. Brian O’Donnell, the director of the emotionally riveting drama, is scheduled to attend, along with the film’s executive producers and actor Matthew Frias, who plays Benny. Akron centers on a tragedy in a Ohio parking lot years earlier that winds up creating a conflict for two cute young college students in love. For Echo’s full review, see “Akron” on page 36.
Scene II – Jan. 30 Screening at noon on Jan. 30 is In The Turn, a documentary about a 10-year-old trans girl who is denied the opportunity to join local athletic groups, but she finds empowerment and a sense of community when she joins a roller derby team called Vagine Regime. “This young girl is not allowed to play sports, so she and her mom find a roller derby league,” Heuser explained. This uplifting documentary, which Marttini as one of the best she’s seen in years, focuses on a league that is made up of different kinds of people, including gay and trans girls. Death in Buenos Aires, a Spanishlanguage crime drama starring Oscarnominee Demian Bashir (“Weeds”), will screen at 3:30 p.m. Jan. 30. Here, Bashir plays a veteran detective who must delve into the gay nightlife of Argentina to try and solve a murder, but teaming up with a young officer to crack the case creates some sparks between the two handsome officers. Another centerpiece film of the festival is Clambake, a documentary all about Women’s Week in Provincetown. This film,
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Out To Win.
feature
In The Turn.
Clambake.
which traces P-Town’s development into a major lesbian hot spot, screens at 5:30 p.m. Jan. 30 and it will be followed by a question-and-answer session with director Andrea Meyerson. Closet Monster closes out the Jan. 30 lineup with an 8 p.m. screening. Isabella Rossellini headlines this drama about a creative teenager named Oscar Madly who wants to become a special effects artist. Struggling with his sexuality and hoping to leave his hometown, Oscar finds his biggest obstacle to be disturbing memories from his childhood. This movie won Best Canadian feature film at the Toronto Film Festival. For Echo’s full review, visit echomag.com/ closet-monster.
a stay-at-home housewife, who are raising their two daughters. But Trish is coping with the loss of her father and gets distracted from their home life, and Deb winds up falling for the cute tattooed mother of their daughter’s classmate. For Echo’s full review, see “Stuff” on page 38. Those People, which closes the festival with its screening at 6 p.m. Jan. 31, is a tale about a young man, Charlie, whose heart is stolen by a piano player. But Charlie cannot avoid his boyhood crush on his charming pal Sebastian, a young man who has become notorious ever since his father was incarcerated in connection to a financial scandal. For Echo’s full review, visit echomag.com/ those-people.
Scene III – Jan. 31 The Arizona premiere of The New Girlfriend, a dynamite trans film that’s breaking down barriers, will take place at 1:50 p.m. Jan. 31. After a woman loses her lifelong best friend, she checks in on the grieving husband and finds him dressed in women’s clothing, nursing a newborn with a bottle. For Echo’s full review, see “The New Girlfriend” on page 37.
Desperado LGBT Film Festival 2016 Schedule Jan. 29 8 a.m.
Out to Win
7:30 p.m. Akron
Followed by a Q&A with director Brian O’Donnell and actor Matthew Frias
Jan. 30 Noon
In the Turn
1:55 p.m. Five short films 3:30 p.m. Death in Buenos Aires 5:30 p.m. Clambake
Followed by a Q&A with director Andrea Meyerson
8 p.m.
Closet Monster
Jan. 31 12:15 p.m. Six short film selections 1:50 p.m. The New Girlfriend
Stuff, a fun romp with suburban lesbian moms, screens at 4 p.m. Jan. 31. In this film, Trish, a dentist, and Deb,
4 p.m.
Stuff
6 p.m.
Those People
Those People.
Desperado LGBT Film Festival
Death In Buenos Aires.
Paradise Valley Community College Center for Performing Arts 18401 N. 32nd St. Phoenix Tickets: $10; MCCCD employees, $9; students and seniors, $8. All access ($80) and single-day ($30) passes are also available. 602-787-7738 desperadofilmfestival.com Hans Pedersen is a freelance writer based in Phoenix.
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cover story
LIVE with Aneesh
Arizona’s sassiest co-host serves up LGBTQ realness on the radio By Laura Latzko
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Photos courtesy of Aneesh.
“D
o you have what it takes to be on the radio?”
That’s the question that Lady La and Joey Boy, co-hosts of LIVE 101.5’s “The Morning Mess” asked the Valley of the sun as they set out on a quest to find their third cast member just over a year ago. “LIVE 101.5 is looking to make The Morning Mess well … Mess-ier! Have you ever thought about working in radio? We’re looking for the next radio superstar to join our team,” was the job posting that appeared all over social media. The application requirements were simple: shoot a video that expresses why you’re the right fit for the job, upload it to YouTube and complete a web form and a formal application. No experience necessary. The response, as you may have guessed, was an overwhelming amount of applicants, followed by round after round of live auditions. By late March the station had made a decision and the world was introduced to Aneesh. Since then, “The Morning Mess” trio has been hitting the airwaves from 6 to 10 a.m. every weekday morning on LIVE 101.5. And slowly, but surely, listeners are discovering why this entertainment industry hopeful stood out from the crowd. Aneesh was born in Queens, N.Y., to what he describes as “traditional Indian parents,” making him and his younger sister firstgeneration Indian Americans. Coming from a different background than other people he knew, Aneesh recalled feeling like an outsider looking in – to which he attributes his drive to stand out. “I’m sort of the black sheep in my family. I am the most extroverted. I’m the one who likes to be out there,” he said. growing up Aneesh grew up in Arizona and, even as a kid, had a passion for digital art and dabbled in theater. While attending North High School in Phoenix he helped the cheerleading and dance teams with audio editing of dance mixes. “My entire life has been about me having this very individual experience,” he said. “It’s always been me trying to figure out how to not just assimilate with everyone else, but to flourish.”
“My entire life has been about me having this very individual experience. It’s always been me trying to figure out how to not just assimilate with everyone else, but to flourish.” Aneesh
an ear for entertainment Ultimately, his knowledge of entertainment and pop culture combined with his signature sass and innate ability to stand out turned out to be the magic recipe the station was looking for. During his audition, the 26-year-old was given two minutes to make the CBS radio crew laugh. “What’s the biggest lie you’ve ever told?” Lady La asked Aneesh in his live audition. To which he replied, “That I’m straight.” That certainly made them laugh, and opened up the door for him to finally pursue his dream. One he’d almost given up on. According to Aneesh, he’d almost given up on a career in entertainment before deciding to audition for the position with LIVE 101.5; however, he credits working for the radio station with giving him a greater sense of confidence and drive. “When this happened, it completely turned me upside down. I was like, ‘Wait a minute. I can actually do anything I’ve been wanting to do?’” he said. “The job has awoken this passion and this drive in me that I didn’t know I had.” on the air
Aneesh went on to graduate from Arizona State University with a degree from the T. Denny Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics in 2012.
Since accepting this job, Aneesh said he’s taken his work very seriously and has spent a great deal of time learning the ins and outs from other radio hosts, especially Joey Boy and Lady La.
Most recently, Aneesh held an office job at a local college and worked in customer service and sales positions before that. But his interest in the entertainment industry was ever present.
“I feel like I’m such a student when I’m around the two of them,” he said. “I’m constantly observing how they handle themselves when they are on air and off the air.”
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Already, Aneesh’s unique style is standing out in the mainstream radio community because, as an openly gay man, he brings a very different perspective to the team and to the listeners. Aneesh joins the dynamic of Joey Boy, a straight married man and Lady La, a straight woman who is in a relationship. And needless to say, they don’t always agree on every topic. “Disagreement is where the gold is. So, when we have a disagreement on something, that’s where the conversation is,” Aneesh said. “We have this dynamic with each other, where we balance [out] each other very well.” While he’s always felt welcome on the show, Aneesh said that joining a team of two radio hosts who knew each other so well was challenging at first. “Joey and La are very forward in making sure I have time to speak, and I have time to contribute my ideas,” he said. “From day one, they wanted to know, ‘What do you want to bring to the table?’ There’s a great level of respect from all of us.” In addition to his quick rapport with his co-hosts, Aneesh’s humor and willingness to open up about his life have earned him a fan following in his first year on the job. He’s also a little bit of a fan himself. Since joining the LIVE 101.5 team, Aneesh has taken part in phone interviews and in-person interviews with Nick Jonas,
Becky G., Iggy Azalea, Diplo, Christina Milian, Steve Aoki, Angela Johnson, Adam Lambert and Britney Spears – just to name a few. putting lgbtq in radio Being a voice for the LGBTQ community was important to Aneesh from the first day he started at the station. When he was hired, he asked to be able to discuss LGBTQ issues and not just act as the “funny gay guy” on the show. “As long as there’s a great sense of LGBT awareness [at the end of the day],” Aneesh said he feels he is doing his part, “whether it’s through humor or me being serious, like me crying on the air when the Supreme Court hearing was announced or [getting] the opportunity to talk about the Caitlyn Jenner photo shoot when that was released.” The radio host is very open about his personal life and discusses dating, weight loss trials and tribulations and sexual preference on the air. In some cases, Aneesh will take the lead on less news-related topics, such as the gender neutrality of a store’s toy section. The importance of these topics to the radio personality prompted
him to get involved in the LGBTQ-themed podcast “Bottom of the Mainstream” (bottomofthemainstream.com) during which he and his co-host discuss such issues as domestic violence, body image issues, ageism, racism and LGBTQ community news. Additionally, he made a cameo appearance on an episode of “Let’s Have a FeFe” with Felicia Minor and Freddy Prinze Charming (bit.ly/1SJqqDK). In his career to date, Aneesh said he has been most influenced by Charlamagne Tha God, Ryan Seacrest, Howard Stern and Carson Daly as well as podcasters Megan Tan and Kid Fury. off the air Off the air, Aneesh has had the chance to interact with fans at concerts, pool parties, Phoenix Fashion Week and charity events throughout Arizona. Within the LGBTQ community, Aneesh has volunteered for such organizations as one n ten and Phoenix Pride. In June, he co-hosted a Gay Days Arizona pool party with Miss Gay Arizona America 2015
Nevaeh McKenzie, and added that he hopes to do more in the community in the future. “I am not as involved with the LGBT community as I want to be,” he said. “I really want to be ingrained in the LGBT community here. I want the community to know that we as a station are pro-LGBT.” Exploring the world of improv comedy is another new endeavor for Aneesh, who has taken comedy classes with Jester’Z Improv in Mesa since joining the LIVE 101.5 team because he knows the value in being able to come up with funny material on the spot. Admittedly, there aren’t enough hours in the day to conquer all of the goals Aneesh has set for himself. After admitting that he often stays at the station for 12 hours a day and comes in on days off, he added that he hopes to continue to develop his ability to operate the sound board and hone other aspects of his craft. Meanwhile, his alter ego, “Jonathan,” who talks to people suspected of cheating by their significant others as part of the weekly “Staycation” segment, and his football-inspired “Fruit Ball” bit during which he picks winners based on random thoughts and life occurrences, are evidence that Aneesh was the perfect third perspective for “The Morning Mess.” But don’t just take our word for it … For more information on LIVE 101.5 or “The Morning Mess,” visit live1015phoenix. com. To keep up with Aneesh find him on Facebook at facebook.com/anditsaneesh or on Twitter at and Instagram at @neeshiminaj.
Laura Latzko is a Phoenix-area freelance writer, originally from Michigan, who holds a bachelor’s degree in English and communication studies from Hollins University and a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Missouri.
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feature story
On with “The Show”
Q Talk America offers an international platform for local LGBTQ voices By Laura Latzko
I
t’s just a regular Tuesday night. You have plans to get together with your regular friends to drink regular drinks and talk about regular things. That’s all the inspiration one Valley resident needed to launch something remarkable. After participating as a guest on “Joe and Babe,” one of Q Talk Arizona’s previous shows that was co-hosted by local podcaster Joe Dugandzic and former radio personality and 34 |
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community leader Babe Caylor, Clayton McKee was inspired to start a show of his own. “The spark came to me,” McKee said. “I [thought] it would be fun to do a show, but it would be my rules, my way.” And just like that, “The Show with Clayton McKee” was born. When “The Show” started, Q Talk Arizona had a number of shows, McKee explained, adding that he kept the
station’s name but tweaked it to “Q Talk America” after acquiring it. Four years later, as “The Show” approaches its 250th episode, its cast of four reaches a global audience each week. While the number of people who tune into the weekly three-hour show varies from month to month, McKee estimates that around 2,000 people – ranging in age from millennials to seniors – download and listen to the show in a 90-day time frame.
meet the cast Despite the fact that it’s called “The Show with Clayton McKee,” Q Talk America’s sole show is made up of a cast of four distinct voices: McKee, Kat Carlson, Al Perkins and Marnie Reiher. “The irony of the show is it’s my show in name, and I have absolutely no control over it,” MeKee said. “I describe the show as [us] at brunch hanging around a table talking.” McKee has worked as a radio and club DJ as well as a master of ceremonies at various of community events, including the Phoenix Pride parade. Currently, he can be found behind the turntables on Wednesday nights at Charlie’s and, by day, he works in sales at a restaurant and bar point-of-sales system company. Al Perkins, who works as a nurse, serves as the show’s movie buff and handles the entertainment aspects of the show. Marnie Reiher, a social worker who specializes in helping people with developmental disabilities, can be counted on to bring up quirky, and often racy, topics. Reiher recalls being reluctant to talk on the air in the beginning, but said she’s become more comfortable over time. “I used to be quiet, but I’ve changed my ways,” Reiher said, adding that she and Perkins have been part of the show since the beginning. Kat Carlson, who works as a bartender at Kobalt and for a book fair company, said she listened to the show regularly before joining the cast. Originally scheduled as a fill-in back in September 2014, Carlson said she loved being a part of the cast so much that she just stayed on. “I wouldn’t leave. I just kept showing up,” the newest member of the cast said. “That’s how I make friends with people. I just keep showing up.” Together, these four regular folks share their views on political, social, pop culture and regular topics that they find relevant, interesting or downright strange. “The Show,” which is all volunteer based, has featured several other regular cast members throughout the years, including Echo’s 2015 Leader of the Year Katy June and Echo’s former managing editor Buddy Early. Every time a new member joins the cast, McKee said the dynamic on “The Show” changes in some way. “It has been interesting to see how everybody plays differently with the new person in the sandbox,” McKee said.
“Every Tuesday, we get to have that insight from people from other places … They are kind of sitting at our table. When they are not in the chat room, it feels like something is missing.” Marnie Reiher
give ‘em something to talk about To prepare for the podcast, the cast gathers stories and researches talking points for the week, but generally there isn’t an overall theme. “We are kind of a morning show at night,” McKee said. “The topics of the day drive the show … We just talk about things that other people are talking about … There’s a gay spin to it, yes, but there doesn’t always have to be.” Over the years, the cast has covered a wide range of topics. And, while McKee aims to keep the shows light-hearted, he said cast members bring up more serious matters from time to time. “It all happens naturally,” Carlson said. “There’s no rehearsals. There’s minimal production meetings.” According to Perkins, the show’s format hasn’t changed all that much since its inception. “One of the things we said from the beginning,” Perkins said, “[was] that it had to be unscripted, that it had to be organic.” Although the show is LGBTQ themed, Carlson said it doesn’t have a central message or focus like many other gay podcasts. “I’ve listened to other gay podcasts and with a lot of them you can feel them stretching to make that ‘gay point,’ but we don’t have to,” Carlson said. “I think that’s a testament to our lives and personalities.” It’s the cast members’ real-life scenarios, their larger-than-life personalities and un-edited commentary that makes the show stand out. “I don’t think there’s a lot of podcasts where they swear like we do. It’s gets a little explicit at times with personal stories,” Perkins said. “We sometimes forget we have on microphones and
headphones, because it is like four friends sitting around having drinks, laughing and talking … It’s been really rewarding too.” the show heard ‘round the world Interactions with listeners – especially via chat rooms – have become an important part of “The Show,” which draws listeners from all over the world, including Croatia, India, Japan, Russia, Finland, New Zealand, Australia and Kenya. “It’s a nice release for them because some of them are in countries where [they] are oppressed – not just politically, but for being gay,” McKee said. “In some of these oppressed countries they have to listen on headphones because they aren’t permitted … to watch or listen to us.” According to McKee, many listeners have expressed how “The Show” has made them laugh during dark times in their lives or shown them there are other individuals out there who are very much like them. “For some people who listen to us, it sounds like those three hours to them are golden,” he said. “They really want that escape from whatever oppression they are living under.” For Reiher, conversations with longtime listeners, especially those from other countries, have been very informative. “We are learning so much about things going on in India and Africa,” she said. “Every Tuesday, we get to have that insight from people from other places … They are kind of sitting at our table. When they are not in the chat room, it feels like something is missing.” Regardless of geographic location or sexual orientation, there’s one universal sentiment the diverse array of listeners continue to reiterate to the cast. “One of the things people say in emails [is] ‘you are just regular people, you are like us,’” he said. “We didn’t initially know what we were doing or how it was going to go, and over time, everybody found their niche, and it all just works.” “The Show with Clayon McKee” airs live every Tuesday from 7 to 10 p.m. on at qtalkamerica.com. Additionally, past episodes are also available on the Q Talk America YouTube page, youtube.com/ user/qtalkamerica. Laura Latzko is a Phoenix-area freelance writer, originally from Michigan, who holds a bachelor’s degree in English and communication studies from Hollins University and a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Missouri. EchoMag.com
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feature story
The Adoption Option
Former ABC Family star and husband adopt a son in Arizona By Megan Wadding
T
he former “Kyle XY” star Matt Dallas and his husband Blue Hamilton have a newly adopted son. The couple introduced 2-year-old Crow to the world via their YouTube channel in December and the party of three has been documenting their adventures via social media ever since. Dallas was born and raised in Phoenix, but lived in Los Angeles when he and Hamilton, who originally hails from Colorado, met through mutual friends in Hollywood. Together, they moved back to Phoenix two years ago to be closer to their families and to begin the process of starting their own. Last summer, the couple was married in Arizona – less than a year after the state they call home ruled in favor of marriage equality. paternal instinct The handsome hubbies acknowledged that, individually, they both always knew they wanted to have children one day. “For me, I think I always kind of knew I wanted to be a dad,” Hamilton said. “In my 20s, it wasn’t something I focused on. It wasn’t until I hit 30 that I started feeling the need to raise a child.” Dallas echoed his husband’s sentiment. “[Being a father is] something that I’ve always dreamed about since I was a kid,” Dallas said. “I knew it would happen eventually. In my 30s, it really became a priority.” After they were engaged, Hamilton recalled, they began discussing starting a family in a serious way. At first, they assumed they would use surrogacy to start their family. “Once we stared doing research and learning the numbers of foster children without homes and just seeing them age out of the foster system and become 18 and they’re orphans for life, it just got to us,” Hamilton said. “We realized that we could do a great deal for these children and that we should adopt.” After taking a closer look into both the foster system and adoptions, Hamilton
Blue Hamilton with son, Crow. Photos courtesy of youtube.com /watch?v=0W7CJs0xXo4.
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explained that they mutually decided that adopting a child would be the best route for them. “At that point, we couldn’t bring another child into the world when there are so many children [who] need homes,” Dallas said. “We knew we would love [our child] the same no matter what.” fostering first Before the dads-to-be began the process of becoming foster parents, they were already in agreement that their ultimate goal was to eventually adopt a child into their family. From there, the couple went through a mandated training session and completed a detailed checklist to prepare them and their home for the best and worst case scenarios of fostering. “It wasn’t difficult to become a foster parent, but there is a lot involved in it. When you’re going down the checklist it feels like a lot, but it’s really not,” Dallas explained. “I think the biggest thing for us was trying to figure out if we were going to be doing a good thing for this child. It’s more important than checking your water heater or preparing your house. It was definitely a little bit of self-reflection. But ultimately, it is all relatively simple and all so worth it in the end.” Once licensed, the couple researched many adoption agencies, including some that they knew right away would not work out for them as a gay couple. It had to be a perfect fit before they would commit, they recalled. Eventually, the decision was made to proceed with the Arizona’s Children Association (AzCA). According to Hamilton, being a family of two dads presented no issue when becoming a foster parent. “When we met with Arizona’s Children [Association], it just felt like the right fit. A lot of the people who work there are gay, too, so that helped us feel like there wasn’t any judgment or discrimination,” Hamilton said. “We had gone to other agencies who didn’t shut the door in our faces, but who also wouldn’t cater to us. [AzCA] really opened their doors to the LGBTQ community.” meet crow Late last summer, the newly married couple received a call from their adoption agency announcing that there was a little boy ready to enter their home as a foster child. Both Dallas and Hamilton agreed that the moment they first saw this little boy, as he sat in the back of the case manager’s minivan, they knew he would be their son. “We walked around the van and looked into the windshield and he locked eyes with us,” Hamilton
Matt Dallas with son, Crow. Photos courtesy of youtube.com /watch?v=0W7CJs0xXo4.
said. “We both stopped and he gave us this huge smile. It was pretty special. We both looked at each other and were like, ‘We’re not giving this one up.’” According to Dallas, the normal sixmonth trial period before a couple is allowed to adopt a child was “sort of expedited” for them, for which he credits the agency for recognizing that Crow was the “right fit” for this home. “The process went pretty quickly,” Hamilton said. “It was just meant to be.” Both Dallas and Hamilton agree that, overall, adopting went much more easily than either had expected. “We had known people that had adopted and we heard nightmare stories about the Department of Child Safety, so we went in a little reluctantly,” Dallas said. “But it ended up being pretty smooth sailing. Everyone that we encountered [was] great … and very professional. They all really cared about the kids. “ becoming a family As of today, Crow has been in his new home for nearly nine months. In December, Crow celebrated his second birthday, between two other important holidays: right after his adoption was finalized and just before his first Christmas with his new family.
“The most surprising thing for me was how adding him to our family felt like the missing piece that we didn’t know was missing,” Dallas said. “We were happy before, but now that we have him in our home, I feel like we didn’t even know what happy was. He has elevated our family and our relationship to a whole new level.” The dads have not ruled out the possibility of having more children in the future, Hamilton added. They have not closed the door on surrogacy either. “I think we would love to add to our family even more. But right now, we’re just taking it day by day and enjoying [our] new addition,” Hamilton said. “We’re open to whatever the future has for us.” back to business Dallas found fame when he starred on the ABC Family hit show “Kyle XY,” which aired from 2006 to 2009. Hamilton is an accomplished singer/songwriter. When they’re not keeping busy exploring life with their son, Hamilton said they’re “both still working in the creative realm,” which includes new projects that have not yet been announced. However, the couple’s new YouTube channel offers viewers a glimpse into EchoMag.com
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their family life as well as their ventures in the entertainment business. We’re continuing to produce content for [our YouTube channel],” Dallas said. “And [Hamilton] is continuing to make music. I’ll continue in the television world.” Follow the adventures of Crow and his dads on YouTube (visit bit.ly/1WeItzm or search Matt + Blue).
TAKE IT ONLINE For a list of adoption and fostering resources, visit echomag.com/adopt.
Arizona’s Children
Local organization advocates for same-sex parents According to the Arizona’s Children Association (AzCA), there are more than 100,000 children in foster care waiting for a permanent home across the United States. In Arizona alone, there are more than 17,000 children in the foster care system waiting to be placed into a safe home. Each year, many children age out of the system without ever finding a permanent residence or a family to call their own. These statistics are what made Dallas and Hamilton decided that adoption was the best route for them to take when starting their family. Both dads adamantly believe that if you can open your doors to a
child in need, you should. “There are so many children in Arizona that need homes and there just aren’t enough families for all of them. There is no reason that we can’t give back and open our doors,” said Hamilton. “Educate yourself. Get online. Read the statistics,” Dallas said. “The numbers alone should be motivation alone to look more into it. Call agencies and talk to them. That is basically what we did.” “If you start the process, you aren’t committed to anything,” Hamilton explained. “You will learn so much that you will know quickly whether or not it is for you.”
According to Dallas, the training session and certification process serve as major resources for anyone interested in becoming parents in this way. “Every family is different,” Hamilton said, “… after going through this process, I do know that you’re going to love the child no matter what.” For more information on Arizona’s Children Association, visit arizonaschildren.org.
Megan Wadding is a freelance writer and travel addict with a degree in journalism. Follow her on Twitter at @MeganWadding.
Whether you are single, married, or partnered, you can make a difference.
Become a foster parent. For more information about foster care, don’t wait -- call or visit our website today!
(602) 283-7107 | DevereuxAZ.org 38 |
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The New Girlfriend An international film that breaks down gender and sexuality barriers.
Akron.
gay lifestyle. She’s portrayed as laid-back, cool and direct – that is, until Christopher’s connection to the tragedy is uncovered. Then she’s virulently opposed to his presence in her home. The story could just as easily have involved a straight couple rather than a gay one, and yet the parents’ 180-degree spin of a reaction and their resistance to the guys’ relationship resonates strongly. The challenging position the two men face is gut-wrenching. Frias and Donovan turn in strong performances in their challenging roles as Benny and Christopher; both are expressive, conveying a great deal with only their faces, while still bringing fun and sexy moments to the film. The stage actress playing Lenora (Andrea Burns) hits a clinker of a note once in while in her performance, but still has plenty of strong moments. This character-driven drama is moving, well-paced, and unfolds in a believable manner. While it’s rough around the edges at times, it’s a winning concept, sharing the story of how a young man could wind up paying for the sins of his mother. Akron will screen at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 29 as part of the Desperado LGBT Film Festival. The screening will be followed by a Q&A with director Brian O’Donnell and actor Matthew Frias.
The latest movie from François Ozon (The Swimming Pool), one of the hottest French directors around, The New Girlfriend is a visual treat with a compelling story that breaks down boundaries and barriers without being pedantic This French-language film is loosely adapted from a short story by Ruth Rendell and, while it’s not a slapstick musical romp, it feels like we haven’t seen so much gender and sexuality at play since Blake Edwards’ Victor/ Victoria. In an opening montage we learn about two girls, Claire (Anais Demoustier) and Laura (Isild Le Besco), who grow up as close friends. As adults, they both find husbands, but Laura dies soon after giving birth. Days after the funeral, Claire visits her late friend’s husband, David (Romain Duris), but nobody answers the unlocked door. Hearing the newborn baby making sounds inside, she walks inside and finds David dressed in woman’s clothing, nursing his baby, Lucie. David explains that his late wife knew about his love for cross-dressing, and that the desire to put on the pink chiffon had subsided during their marriage, until Laura’s death. “The pain of her absence was
The New Girlfriend.
gone” when wearing her clothing, he tries explaining to Claire. Playing both mother and father to baby Lucie, David feels happier in long hair and a lovely beige ensemble, and begs Claire to help him keep his secret. While Claire is judgmental at first, she agrees to venture out on a shopping excursion with her “new girlfriend” and even offers up a new name: Virginia. Once christened with a name, Virginia finds liberation in the real world and hits the town. The two go on more shopping excursions and dance at a gay discothèque, all the while spinning lies to Claire’s handsome husband, Gilles (Raphaël Personnaz). There’s a real affection between Claire and Virginia, similar to the kind of warmth that Claire had once shared with her late friend, Laura. The power of female bonding is a recurring theme throughout The New Girlfriend. Even the title, The New Girlfriend or Nouvelle Amis, contains a certain ambiguity in both French and English, describing two girlfriends who hold hands and go shopping, but have no sexual relationship. Ozon also manages to bust through the false association that people continue to make between cross-dressing and homosexuality as well. Fluid sexuality, nonetheless, permeates the story. During the disco scene another gal hits on Claire, and she seems to enjoy her excursion into same-sex affection. And there’s also some homoerotic imagery involving David and Gilles. Satisfying and intelligent, The New Girlfriend is an outstanding movie filled with warmth and moments of humor that delves into territory that’s long overdue for exploration. Ozon is a skilled director whose sharp eye and clever mind help make this an insightful film.
The New Girlfriend.
The New Girlfriend will screen at 1:50 p.m. Jan. 31 as part of the Desperado LGBT Film Festival. EchoMag.com
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Stuff Character chemistry earns high marks in this modern family film. Written and directed by Susan Guacci, Stuff is a refreshing portrait of two women in a relationship who are struggling to find meaning and connection as their home life falls apart. Lead actresses, Karen Sillas (who plays Trish Murdoch) and Yvonne Jung (who plays Deb Murdoch), exude such naturalism in their performances that this indie nearly sparkles with vibrant authenticity. Trish, a dentist and Deb, a homemaker, are co-parenting two girls – the youngest of which, Samantha, is the victim of a rock-throwing incident. The perpetrator’s mom, Jamie (Traci Dinwiddle), tries to make amends by inviting Deb and their daughter to celebrate her son Joey’s birthday. Jamie is a tattooed mom who’s always on the run. She inks for a living and has a smoldering look across her face every time she lays her eyes on Deb. As a result of meet ups in sunlit parks and a family arcade restaurant, a romance develops between Deb and Jamie. When Deb remarks she and Trisha have stopped
exercising, Jamie points out, in a smoldering double-entendre, “I could exercise with you.” Trish, meantime, is in avoidance mode, and appears to be grieving over the death of her father. Feeling compelled to help her mom out, she increasingly ignores her wife and kids and distracts herself with minor home renovations that her father never got to finish. Although Deb tries to resist her attraction toward the sexy tattoo artist, Trish seems to be dodging her wife whenever she reaches out. Next thing you know, Deb decides that getting a small tattoo seems like the perfect way to get to know Jamie better. Most endearing in this movie, is the Murdochs’ other daughter, Suzie, who is determined to win the part of narrator in the school play. Her sweetness is hard to resist: “I think this the best day of my life,” she says, holding her mother’s hands on audition day. As Jamie and Deb grow intimate, a conflict soon develops, culminating with a disruption at the opening of the school play. Also memorable is Phyllis Somerville
February 2016
/ChandlerCenterfortheArts @ChandlerArts
6 The Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra . . . . . 7:30pm 12 Tap Factory . . . . . . . . 7:30pm 14 The Summit – The Manhattan Transfer meets Take 6 . . . . 7pm 20 Frankie Avalon . . . . . . 7:30pm 21 Lee Ann Womack . . . . . . . 7pm 27 Steppin’ Out LIVE with Ben Vereen & Trio . . 7:30pm
Stuff.
(“The Big C”) as Trish’s fiesty mother, Ginger, who misses her husband but doesn’t want her daughter to use his death as an excuse to hide from her home life. The cast simply shines, with every actor contributing their own nuanced, realistic moments in the film. There’s a real crackle in the eyes of each performers as they interact in this suburban milieu. Guacci shot the scenes in Long Island, New York, and sketches out a lovely slice-of-life portrait of these two moms working to find their way back to each other. While there are no remarkable twists in the rather ordinary story, the fun comes from watching the chemistry between the characters as they navigate the foibles of life. Stuff will screen at 4 p.m. Jan. 31 as part of the Desperado LGBT Film Festival. Hans Pedersen is a freelance writer based in Phoenix.
March 2016
4 The Second City Fully Loaded . . . . . . . 7:30pm 5 Vicki Lawrence & Mama: A Two Woman Show . . . . 7:30pm 8-13 Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding . Times Vary 18 Rita Rudner . . . . . . . . 7:30pm 25 Flamenco Kings starring Los Vivancos . . . 7:30pm
April 2016
1 The von Trapps . . . . . . 7:30pm
4 8 0 . 7 8 2 . 2 6 8 0 · w w w. C h a n d l e r C e n t e r. o r g 38 |
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feature story
New Year, New Family
The McHenrys start 2016 as one family, thanks to marriage equality and adoption By Liz Massey
Photos courtesy of DePoy Studios.
Mapplethorpe: Look at the Pictures
Uncle Howard Aaron Brookner’s debut film focuses on his own uncle, director of Burroughs: The Movie, Howard Bookner, who passed away from AIDS a quarter century ago. Using a combination of archival interviews with the late filmmaker and never-before-seen footage of Burroughs and folks like Allen Ginsburg, Jim Jarmusch, Matt Dillon and Madonna, the young director creates a moving portrait of his late uncle and idol. The end result may make you feel like you’re stepping into downtown Manhattan in the 1980s.
Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato (the brilliant minds behind Eyes of Tammy Faye) direct this portrait of the controversial artist who rocked the worlds of art and politics in the 1980s. Newly uncovered interviews with Mapplethorpe and his close friends help trace the scandals provoked by his artwork, which depicted explicit gay themes, leather-clad men and sex toys in use, offending the sensibilities of many in the 1980s.
Tallulah Actress Ellen Page, who recently came out, stars in Tallulah, playing a bohemian gal living out of her car who tries to protect another woman’s baby by claiming the child is her own. Additionally, Several LGBTQ-identified filmmakers are screening their movies at Sundance 2016.
Nothing Left Unsaid Liz Garbus (director of What Happened Miss Simone?) returns to Sundance with this profile of maverick Gloria Vanderbilt, who is interviewed by her son, CNN anchor Anderson Cooper. The fashion maven opens up about their family life in interviews with the openly gay journalist, accompanied by lots of family footage. This revealing documentary by the Oscar-nominated director suggests history can indeed repeat itself. Suited Jason Benjamin directs this insightful documentary that looks at gender fluidity through a different kind of lens: it focuses on Bindle & Keep, a tailoring business in Brooklyn that provides their gender nonconforming clients with custom-made suits that actually fit. Film Hawk He’s the man known for helping discover talented filmmakers like Kevin Smith and Barbara Hammer: indie film expert Bob Hawk was a preacher’s son who grew up gay and ultimately became known for uncovering raw talent in the American independent film scene at places like Sundance.
The Intervention Lesbian actress Clea DuVall directs her debut film, The Intervention, about a weekend retreat involving four couples, three of whom are planning a “marriage intervention” for a partnership that’s on the rocks. The film co-stars Natasha Lyonne (But I’m a Cheerleader). Life, Animated Roger Ross Williams (director of God Loves Uganda) returns with Life, Animated, a fascinating story of how an autistic youngster was closed off from the world until he was deluged with Disney animated movies, and his identification with Ariel and Simba helped tear down his private walls.
Author: The JT Leroy Story
Kiki Voguing remains a vibrant pastime in New York City, and this documentary demonstrates how it thrives in the Kiki community – empowering LGBTQ youth of color with a safe space to regulate themselves. This American/ Swedish documentary by director Sara Jordeno gives us a fresh look at the Paris Is Burning scene 25 years later; she also co-wrote the film with Kiki community leader Twiggy Pucci Garcon. It’s an up-close view of performers who embrace traditions and innovation as they assert their rights and live out their dreams.
Gifted and notoriously shy author JT Leroy may have gotten shoutouts from celebrities, but his glitzy lifestyle, indeed his actual existence, turned out to be a pure fabrication. The author’s identity, along with the books, were the carefully constructed work of 40-year-old phone sex operator Laura Alpbert. Director Jeff Feuerzeig sheds light on a wilder side of the literary world.
Little Men Also, Ira Sachs (Love Is Strange, Keep the Lights On, two gay-themed movies that premiered at Sundance) returns to the festival with Little Men. It’s the story of a teenager who moves to Brooklyn and befriends another boy, but a rent dispute between their families threatens to derail their friendship. For more information on Sundance 2016, including festival program or screening schedule, visit sundance2016.com.
Hans Pedersen is a freelance writer based in Phoenix. EchoMag.com
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still be done by a rumor with immediate and often tragic consequences? LGBTQ suicides are consistently being traced back to cyber bullies spreading lies, gossip and hate.”
opening nights
“The actresses I chose are both amazingly talented women who I have seen on stage and film and been very impressed with their work,” she said. “I was looking for women who were comfortable making a connection on stage that was honest and real. I also wanted to cast very lovely, physically attractive women which is the complete opposite of what Hellman did when it was reopened on Broadway in the 1950s.” The cast features leads Jennifer Rio as Karen Wright and Kellie Dunlap as Martha Dobie, two lifelong friends who run the all-girls boarding school. “This show is brilliantly written, but I’ve never seen it done in the Valley,” Rio said. “It’s challenging, rich, dark and dramatic, giving the cast meaty details to work with. This is a dream role for me!” Dunlap agreed, and adding that the chemistry between the characters appealed to her. “It’s always exciting to read plays that feature multidimensional female protagonists,” Dunlap said. “Martha’s strength, passion, humor and candor were all very attractive to me. Despite the obstacles she faces in the play, she doesn’t come across as a victim, and the love she has for Karen is sincere, palpable and uncompromising.”
Desert Foothills Theater stages groundbreaking lesbian play
In casting the play, Webb said she made very deliberate choices to avoid stereotypes.
By Richard Schultz
L
illian Hellman’s shattering drama, The Children’s Hour, was shocking for its time when it premiered on Broadway in 1934.
From Feb. 19 to 28, Desert Foothills Theater is revisiting this play, which is worthy of attention by local audiences for its significance in LGBTQ history. Set in 19th century Scotland, The Children’s Hour is based on an actual incident that in which a pupil accused her schoolteachers of lesbianism. The word itself is never spoken in the production, but the mere hint of the innuendo that there is something “unnatural” going on between two female characters was enough to damn them in the eyes of their community. Mary, the student who levels the charge against her teachers, Karen Wright and Martha Dobie, has been spoiled by her grandmother and has learned early how to manipulate adults. Her doting grandmother is shocked by Mary’s allegations and takes it upon herself to withdraw Mary from the school and to advise other parents to do the same. According to Janis Webb, the show’s director, playwright Hellman stated in her memoirs that, “The Children’s Hour is not really a play about lesbianism, but about
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Left to right: Kellie Dunlap, Jennifer Rio and Janis Webb.
a lie. And the bigger the lie, the better.” Hellman works her audience’s emotions into a fine sense of outrage at how a big lie is capable of gripping a society’s imagination – exposing the way mass psychology can be manipulated to serve falsehood. Webb also notes that this lie turns out to be one woman’s truth, which brings about the most tragic of endings. “The Children’s Hour is commonly accepted as the original ‘gay play’ and was banned in Chicago when it opened in the 1930s,” Webb said. “Fast forward to today: People may say the play is about homophobia and on one level it is. Yet, along with homophobia and prejudice, the play is about how lies, rumors and gossip can destroy lives. Looking at the power of social media and the issue of cyber bullying today, how much damage can
“It was important to me that they make the impression to the audience of being intelligent, capable, strong women and not ‘broken’ or weak, or portray any simplistic or degrading visuals of how a lesbian ‘should’ appear,” Webb said. Ultimately, the message of the show is to overcome hate and prejudice. “This show presents an honest portrayal of two women caught in a web of lies and how it changes and even destroys their lives,” Webb said. “It is a warning to us [to] not to go back, not to listen to hate and prejudice and not to accept it in any form.”
The Children’s Hour Feb. 19-28 Desert Foothills Theater 33606 N. 60th St., Scottsdale Tickets: $26-$36.50; 480-488-1981 dftheater.org Richard Schultz is a playwright, actor, director and freelance writer based in Phoenix.
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Phoenix Theatre new female comedy bares it all By Richard Schultz
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escribed as “the British Golden Girls” by producing artistic director Michael Barnard, Calendar Girls is Phoenix Theatre’s premiere of the United Kingdom comedy that celebrates extraordinary women of courage on a philanthropic journey that leads them to discover that all women are beautiful – inside and out.
handled in this local production, Moe didn’t give up any details. “That secret remains at heart of the play. It’s magical. Hysterical,” she said. “Michelangelo would be proud and the Mona Lisa smiles a giant grin.” Back in July, Moe and Barnard set a goal of casting an all-Arizonan company.
Determined to raise money for a cause, Chris (played by Elyse Wolf) and Annie, (played by Shari Watts), decide the best way is to give the public what they want is a nude calendar. However, instead of young models gracing the pages, it will feature themselves and the other real women of their small English village showing some serious skin.
“As we agreed, there are never enough contracts to cast all the remarkable talent that resides in Arizona,” she said. “Not only is our cast all from Arizona, but the production and design team all reside in Arizona as well, or attended colleges and universities here, and now fly in from other professional gigs to work on the production.”
Written by Tim Firth, Calendar Girls is a hilarious look at the true events that resulted in a charitable windfall.
Additionally, Moe believes that the universality of the theme and action of Calendar Girls will speak to the LGBTQ community.
Scottsdale resident Elaine “E.E.” Moe (pictured) directs a powerhouse cast of the Valley’s leading actors, including Johanna Carlisle, Patti Davis Suarez, Cathy Dresbach, Hilary Hirsch, Maren Maclean, Debby Rosenthal, Debra K. Stevens and Gabrielle Van Buren. “No idea is too small,” Moe said, describing the plot. “Some of the events are traumatic, touching and hilarious in the reveal of each woman’s human nature and attempt to cover up a silent anguish.” Additionally, Moe believes the theme of the play centers on a constant return to love and friendship. “The men who share in the driving force of Tim Firth’s play are equally vulnerable to the challenges of change and step out of the norm of acceptable behavior, to a redefined love, honor and respect,” she said. “And as truth will out, we cheer as betrayal and deceit get their comeuppance.” When asked how the nudity will be 46 |
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“As a community, LGBTQ is one that reaches out to those in need, shares its resources and promotes awareness,” she said. “The AIDS crisis, along with other critical diseases, took and still takes the lives of the men and women we love. It’s time we drop our labels and become one caring family unfiltered by who we love.” Calendar Girls is personal in love, loss and recognizing the renewal of friendships, according to Moe. “This play belongs to everyone who believes they are alone with their loved one in the awful moments of recognizing we are confronting a deadly disease,” she said. “There is hope, and that hope comes through sharing ourselves with others in times of need, too.” Moe is a member of Society of Directors and Choreographers and has a 55-year legacy of distinguished honors for producing, directing and arts
management consulting throughout the United States. She is the artistic director/co-founder of The MEGAW Theatre/Actors Studio, Inc. of California and Arizona; a senior lecturer at Scottsdale Community College; and a co-founding member of the Arizona Theatre Company. In 2015, she received the Kennedy Center Gold Medallion of Excellence in Arts and Education. Calendar Girls Jan. 20-Feb. 7 Phoenix Theatre 100 E. McDowell Road., Phoenix Tickets: $30-$81; 602-254-2151 phoenixtheatre.com
Richard Schultz is a playwright, actor, director and freelance writer based in Phoenix.
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February 26 - 28, 2016
7 1 4 8 E . M A I N S T R E E T S C O T T S D A L E A Z 4 8 0 . 9 9 4 . 4 7 1 7 W W W. F R E N C H O N M A I N . C O M EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE
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recordings
Photo courtesy of facebook.com/ taylorswift.
Echo expert makes 2016 Grammy predictions By Cait Brennan
G
rammy Awards season is upon us, and you’re probably thinking Adele should just go ahead and buy that Tuff Shed trophy room she’s been eyeing at Costco. But, tragically, you’d be mistaken – or at least 12 months early – because due to the Recording Academy calendar, Adele’s chart-topping heartbreaker won’t be eligible for the awards until 2017. Not to worry though, the 58th annual Grammy Awards – which will air Feb. 15 on CBS –have a wide variety of musical flavors included this year’s nominations. But wait, is this the same organization that named Milli Vanilli Best New Artist? The same one that gave 1992’s Best Rock Song to Eric Clapton’s umpteenth Ambien-fueled snoozefest reworking of “Layla” over Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit”? We’re gonna trust these guys? Short answer: no. You don’t have to trust them when you have your pals here at Echo. Here’s a look at who we think should win, who probably will win and who got ridiculously snubbed in the process. record of the year
Who should win: D’angelo and The Vanguard, “Really Love.” Who will win: hopefully Taylor Swift for “Blank Space,” but probably “Uptown 48 |
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Funk” by Bruno Mars. This category is as tough as it gets. Slick, genetically engineered Frankensteinian pop freakshows, so addictive that no mere human can possibly resist them, concocted by a phalanx of producers, engineers and songwriters that would not even fit in your house. That’s why D’Angelo’s “Really Love” stands out; his album Black Messiah was as personal and powerful a statement as it gets these days, and the man himself produced the record, with help from two engineers and the mastering guy. By contrast, “Uptown Funk” had a team of 12. Don’t believe me? Just watch them all stagger to the stage when they win.
album of the year
Who will win: Taylor Swift, 1989 Who should win: Taylor Swift OK look, Alabama Shakes should win. Their album Sound & Color is a powerhouse slab of cosmic soul that will blow your feet out from under you and possibly send you rocketing into low Earth orbit. But Taylor’s had the kind of year that only legends get: when unbathed indie grouches are compelled to jump your train and cover your entire album in a quasi-condescending manner. But then, instead of it being a joke, it causes everyone to reevaluate how great your songs are AND you get paid twice because BOTH albums become hits … well, it’s your moment, girl. There are Taylor haters, but they have to be killing themselves making the effort, because her songs are just too good for words. It’s like hating oxygen. Kendrick Lamar has a decent shot at stealing this. No, I’m kidding. song of the year
Who will win: Taylor Swift, Max Martin and Shellback, “Blank Space” Who should win: Meh. Sometimes this one goes out as a consolation prize to those who aren’t going to win record of the year or music
Lana Del Rey, Honeymoon.
album of the year, and Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright” is a fine song with an excellent pedigree. But Max Martin, who co-wrote “Blank Space,” is some kind of weird Swede who did a Faust deal with Kenny Loggins’ beard or something, because the man wrote every song we grew up listening to, from “I Want It That Way” to “Baby One More Time” to “Since U Been Gone.” Yes, of course I was a tween in the late ‘90s (that headshot is my grandma).
Look, authenticity isn’t everything, and in fact most artists are just better at faking it (and covering their tracks). She has a gorgeous, haunting voice and her material suits her well, but the haters, well. You know.
best new artist
Who will win: Meghan Trainor, I guess? Who should win: Courtney Barnett. Trainor isn’t a gaurantee for this – she was insanely hot nine months ago, but timing is everything, and the shine’s off the rose. The bloom’s off the … look, I’m fresh out of folksy country metaphors here, let’s just say Meghan and our ears need some time apart. But Grammy voters aren’t exactly cutting edge livein-the-moment types and they probably just now heard “All About That Bass” and it is their jam, y’all. Courtney Barnett is a brilliant indie artist and should win for quality reasons, but then when she was nominated she said something like “huh? wha? I don’t follow awards shows, but thanks.” She’s from Australia; so I guess it could be true. In any case, I hope she wins and has to come down in person to get it, in an artisanal reclaimeddriftwood plane or something.
Best Pop Duo/Group Performance
Who will win: “Uptown Funk,” probably. Who should win: Taylor Swift featuring Kendrick Lamar, “Bad Blood.” This award is a slightly lower-tier thing and if they give it to Bruno Mars he can deffo kiss record of the year goodbye. Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album
Who will win: That horrendous Bob Dylan album where he murders Frank Sinatra songs. Who should win: Seth McFarlane, No One Ever Tells You.
Beck, Dreams. I’ll be honest with you, I really don’t care that he wasn’t nominated; this is just an excuse to tell you I met Beck last month at a thing. He’s tiny. So, so tiny. He’s like a “fun-size” version of a larger artist. He won a Grammy in 2014 so he’ll be fine. Tiny, but fine.
Fine, Tony Bennett air-quotes should un-air-quotes win, but he has 677 Grammys. McFarlane is obnoxious and offensive but at least he didn’t tell Bob Dylan he can sing like Ol’ Blue Eyes.
Nicki Minaj and Beyonce, “Feeling Myself.” Not nominated as best rap collaboration. What. The. Genuine. Flip.
Best Pop Solo Performance
Who will win: Taylor Swift, “Blank Space.” Who should win: The Weeknd, “Can’t Feel My Face.” Taylor is probably going to take home every award, put wigs on them and cart them around as her new squad, but give this one to the Weeknd, Mx. Grammy Voter. Why? Obvs. For god’s sake, The Weeknd can’t even feel his face. And yet he still summons the courage to make records. So brave. music
Most Egregious Snubs
Sleater-Kinney, No Cities To Love. I’m going to save my editor the trouble and not type the various Germanic obscenities I would normally type here. I’m not even a huge Riot Grrl fan, but the Sleater-Kinney record was hella brilliant.
Cait Brennan is a singer/songwriter and freelance writer based in Phoenix.
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between the covers
Too Fast to Live, Too Young to Die: James Dean’s Final Hours By Terri Schlichenmeyer
T
he minute you glimpsed the redand-blues, you knew you were sunk.
Yep, and now you have a traffic citation to pay for stepping on it with your lead foot – a pedal to the metal. You knew better than to exceed the speed limit, but you couldn’t resist and, as you’ll see in the new book, Too Fast to Live, Too Young to Die by Keith Elliot Greenberg, that need for speed may drive you to the grave. Markie Winslow, Jr. adored his cousin, Jimmy. A few years older, Jimmy played with Markie and took him on motorcycle rides, but they never went too fast. With Markie, Jimmy wasn’t reckless, though he pushed the limits of it on his own. People in their hometown of Fairmount, Ind.,
didn’t care – they loved James Dean because he was a local boy who’d done well. No one was surprised that Dean ended up in Hollywood or that he became a star: He’d always loved to act. He’d entered and won contests, performed in church plays and had eschewed prelaw classes in favor of a coveted spot in a UCLA production of Macbeth. It was obvious where his career path was taking him. And it took him there quickly. In just a short time, Dean was a heartthrob movie star, had performed on the new medium of television, and had gained a fiancé and enough money to indulge in Too Fast to Live, Too Young to Die by Keith Elliot Greenberg. Applause Theatre & Cinema Books, 2015 | $24.99. the hobby of auto racing. comprehensive and expansive than When a guy merely a few hours. That has its plusses signed movie deals and its minuses. for six figures, $7,000 wasn’t much for a car A little background is always a good and he had his eye on thing, especially when you’re reading a Porsche 550 Spyder, about a star who made only three movies one of just a few made. and died six decades ago. Author Keith He’d almost gotten Elliot Greenberg finesses that backstory arrested just looking – including Dean’s childhood, his rumored at the car one night. bisexuality, his odd on-set genius, and What else could he do his rapscallion attitude – but Greenberg but buy it? unfortunately combines it with fangushing from folks who traveled to Overjoyed with his Fairmount to partake in a James Dean prize, he’d started to festival. That’s charming at first but it break the car in but becomes florid, and quite overdone. some doubted that it was a good purchase. Still, if you’re a fan and can ignore that, Others told Dean to be you’ll appreciate this book and its marking careful in that car, that of a sad anniversary. If you own the iconic it was dangerous, that poster or T-shirt and want to know more, it could kill him, that it you’ll find that here, too. In either case, would kill him. Too Fast to Live, Too Young to Die may be just the ticket. And on Sept. 30, 1955, it did. Though its subtitle indicates a small focus of subject matter, Too Fast to Live, Too Young to Die is more
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Terri Schlichenmeyer, The Bookworm, lives on a hill in Wisconsin with two dogs and 13,000 books. She’s been reading since age 3 and, to this day, she never goes anywhere without a book.
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Meet Tia Norris, The Body Expert Echo welcomes new health and fitness columnist By KJ Philp
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he’s a self-proclaimed “rule breaker,” a law school graduate and the president and head trainer at FitPro, LLC.
Meet Tia Norris, the author of “Talking Bodies,” Echo’s newly renamed health and fitness column. Norris relocated from Ohio to Tucson for law school in 2009. She launched FitPro in 2012 and, after graduation, she moved to Phoenix in search of a community where her fitness business could thrive. As a result, she’s been training out of Tangible Tanning & Fitness in Phoenix for two years, writing health and fitness advice, which she refers to as “self-meditation,” since launching her business in 2012.
Shortly after making all our New Year’s resolutions, Echo caught up with Norris, to find out more about her training style and her new column. Echo: How did you make the switch from law school to personal training? Norris: There’s an Aristotle and Legally Blonde quote that says, “the law is reason free from passion,” and I came to realize that I live my life based on my passions. I have way too many things that figuratively set me on fire to live my life without them. So, I decided to follow my passions into the world of fitness, and I started personal training in my second year of law school. Echo: Describe the importance of fitness/ training in your life. Norris: It’s everything. It is me, to my core. Fitness is not about six pack abs or rippling biceps. Those things are nice by-products 52 |
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of fitness, but those things do not define fitness. Fitness is confidence, perseverance, discipline, dedication and raw, unbridled grit. Training is my form of artistic expression. The body is the greatest canvas in the world, to me. You can chisel, shape, sculpt and create any image that you see fit. It takes effort, dedication and persistence … to achieve a masterpiece but anyone is capable of tapping into this process. Echo: You’ve been writing health and fitness tips and advice for four years now – what prompted that? Norris: A lot of the things that I’ve written for FitPro are actually more of a self-meditation. I think many of us have similar struggles … everyone deals with fear, self-doubt, laziness, isolation, lack of control and other common, but difficult, experiences. When I write something, it’s more of a self-soothing measure that [I publish] … with the sincere hope that people find common ground materials useful. It’s kind of like publishing my own inner dialogue between my “trainer self” and my “normal self.” Echo: If you could debunk one personal trainer-related myth, what would it be and why? Norris: There are no “magic” workout plans, or “quick fix” supplements that are going to transform you. You transform yourself. All of the sales gimmicks, supplement marketing and anything that makes a splash is probably false. That’s the beauty of it: Only those who keep showing up and keep working, day in and day out, are those who achieve true fitness.
Echo: What is the significance of your column’s title, “Talking Bodies”? Norris: It fits in so many ways. Literally, all that I do centers on the body and how it looks, performs and operates. Figuratively, I like that it’s risqué. Echo: What do you hope to bring to our readers through this column? Norris: Real knowledge of what actually works in fitness – covering diet, exercise, supplementation and other related lifestyle factors. So, definitely lots of factual, hard data. But at the same time, I am a big believer in the abstract part of fitness, which includes persistence, grit, pushing through obstacles and, of course, positive thinking. That’s a summary of my training style: cold hard facts blended with intangible empowerment. Echo: If you could give our wonderfully diverse audience one single piece of advice for 2016, what would it be? Norris: Dream big! Anything is possible. Both the hero and villain in your life is yourself. You will either succeed or fail by your own hands. Believe that you can be great and you are on your way.
READ THE REST For Echo’s full interview with Tia Norris, visit echomag.com/talking-bodies.
KJ Philp is the managing editor of Echo Magazine and can be reached at kj@echomag.com.
health & fitness
Three Things Your New Year’s Resolution is Missing
talking bodies
By Tia Norris
I
n the fitness industry, the third Monday in January is called “Blue Monday.” It’s “blue” because history shows that 90 percent of the New Year’s resolutioners in the gym will catch a serious case of “gym blues” within three weeks, and start to disappear.
completely and efficiently (I know a really good one).
New Year’s resolutions, in fitness, piss me off. Now, I’m not saying that people’s hearts aren’t in the right place with wanting to “get in shape,” to “lose weight” or to “eat healthier,” but the biggest problem with most New Year’s goals is that they are, in most cases, so ambiguous and imprecise, that they are ultimately useless, and will inevitably set you up to fail. Without question.
• Write everything down. Keep track of what you’re going to do, when, how much, how often, etc. I can’t stress this one enough. Writing your goals down will breathe life into them!
If you really want to make a change, you’ve got to start by setting better goals. The key to fitness is having a rock-solid plan, so here’s my three-step approach to succeed with fitness, that’s ideal for any time of year: 1. GET SPECIFIC The top priorities on a new fitness venture are figuring out what you want and how badly you want it, let’s say on a scale of 1 to 10. Now, say it with me: “what do I want, and how badly do I want it?” FIGURE IT OUT. Now be honest with yourself. If you’re at 7 in terms of motivation, accept that, and then also accept that 7 effort yields 7 results. Are you OK with a 70 percent, which is the equivalent to earning a D? If yes, then you need to move to the next step and figure out exactly what that looks like for you. If you’re not cool with a D average, then step your game up and prepare to work harder than you originally thought. From here, you’ve got to be precise! Set your crosshairs on your exact target. I’m looking for a number on the scale, a dress size, a 10-rep max back squat, a percentage of body fat – anything specific. And then, once you have that figured out, set a realistic date by which you plan to achieve it. 2. ACCOUNTABILITY Yes, the “A” word. Everyone needs more accountability when it comes to fitness, including myself. Here are some of my best pieces of advice: • Hire a trainer who will not only keep your appointments, but can also teach you ways to achieve goals more health & fitness
• Tell your family and friends what you’re doing. Tell people who are also into fitness. Try to check in with them often and talk about the good and the bad of the process.
• Carve out 15 minutes each day for time to contemplate your goals and progress. The biggest killer of any fitness program is a perceived “lack of time.” Create consistent, quiet mental time and space to check in, plan and prepare for your program. • Change your phone background picture, your desktop picture or any images that you see regularly into “fitspiration” to remember what you’re working toward. Whether it’s the biceps of your dreams, someone who inspires you or even just the number you’re shooting for, this will constantly remind yourself of your purpose. Make it inescapable, but don’t tell bae that you swapped the selfie of you two making out, to someone else’s abs. 3. REALITY CHECK Last but certainly not least, accept the fact that this is not going to be easy. The reality is that nothing worth having is easy. I know that sounds cliché, but please, let that statement sink in for a second. This is not going to be like skipping through a field of tulips on a sunny day with a basket of strawberries to the Sound of Music. Yes, some days will be doable and your energy will be high. But there will be days where it just downright sucks, and you would rather be doing anything else, and you’re tired, or stressed, or sore or whatever … but remember why you started and how badly you said you wanted it. Hang in there! For added motivation, just remember that bikini/board short season is technically only 12 weeks away. So, whatever goals you set for 2016, now is the time to get specific, accountable and realistic about them!
Tia Norris is the president and head trainer at FitPro, LLC, a local fitness company. Find out more at fitprollc.com.
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ALL OVER THE MAP
Playing To Our Strengths By Liz Massey
I
t’s the beginning of the year, and one surefire topic of conversation is what resolutions you’ve made for 2016, and/or whether you’ve broken any of them yet. That pairing of hope with cynicism is not misplaced – surveys indicate that only a small fraction of resolutions (something on the order of 8 percent) are successfully accomplished. Why do resolutions fail? Well, for one thing, it’s really difficult to step outside one’s comfort zone to establish a new habit or extinguish an old one. But the real reason we can’t seem to better our lives each time the calendar turns over isn’t that we’re weakwilled, or greedy or “bad.” My life experience has led me to believe research findings indicating that when making change, it’s better to amplify our strengths than to set out to “fix” (or, worse yet, “battle”) our weaknesses. This approach – championed by promoters of Appreciative Inquiry, Asset-Based Thinking, Positive Psychology and other strengthsoriented disciplines – is fairly new, and still sounds like a bunch of Kumbaya 1970s mumbo-jumbo if you haven’t been paying attention to research on motivation and change for the past 30 years. But it can work on the individual level just as well as the organizational level. As a queer person, I find plenty to love in a strengths approach to resolution making. Because I’m a member of several groups (LGBTQ people, women) that are constantly being told that their bodies, or what is done with them, are “wrong,” it’s gratifying to learn about a pathway that skips the guilt and shame. It reminds us that we all have inherent value and the potential 54 |
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for positive contributions, just as we are. That line of thought can lead to seeing our peers in the LGBTQ equality movement as complementary partners who offer a variety of gifts to our advocacy attempts, instead of weird people we don’t understand and who get on our nerves. So, if you want to make a change in your 2016, but don’t want to ride the same old roller coaster of high idealistic hopes that get dashed against the reality of how habits and entropy rule our lives, here are a few things to try. Let go of activities, instead of taking more on. Entrepreneur Vanessa Loder, writing in Forbes, suggests taking a contrarian view to resolutions. She advises making a very short list (one to three items, tops) of actions you WILL NOT DO in the New Year. For example, you might say, “I will let go of setting unrealistic weight loss goals, and feeling disappointed when I don’t reach them.” This can help prevent us from setting ourselves up for failure, and allow better decisions to occupy that mental space. Accelerate your current habits. Instead of making the mighty effort (and it is a huge effort, requiring lots of commitment, if you do actually succeed) to embed a new habit, find ways to do more of what you already love to do. Want to set an exercise goal? Find new fun places to go for that daily walk you enjoy so much, instead of pledging to take up CrossFit. Want to eat healthier? Sign up for a gourmet cooking class (because the really good stuff is often pretty good for you, and delicious, too) instead of eliminating all the “fun foods” from your diet.
Align your strengths, in order to make your weaknesses irrelevant. This tip is actually a paraphrase of a quote from the late business guru Peter Drucker. This pairs with the advice above, where you seek to make a change by engaging things that you’re good at, that excite and intrigue you and/or that you love to do. Practice leading with your strengths. Positive psychology pioneers Christopher Peterson and Martin Seligman developed the Values in Action Classification of Character Strengths and Virtues (VIA for short), which offers an online questionnaire to help identify which of 24 strengths most closely align with who a person is. The idea is that once you know what you’re best at, you’ll be able to use your superpowers intentionally, instead of just having them burst forth randomly and intermittently. The early part of the year often is infused with hope, especially when it comes to making things better in our life. However, as wonderful as self-improvement can be, there is more to our existence than perfecting ourselves. As the British-American philosopher and author Alan Watts so aptly put it, “No one imagines that a symphony is supposed to improve in quality as it goes along, or that the whole object of playing it is to reach the finale. The point of music is discovered in every moment of playing and listening to it. It is the same, I feel, with the greater part of our lives, and if we are unduly absorbed in improving them, we may forget altogether to live them.” Liz Massey has been involved in LGBT community-building activities in Kansas City and the Valley of the Sun, and is a former managing editor of Echo Magazine. She can be reached at lizmassey68@gmail.com.
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money talks
‘Tis The Season (For Tax Preparations) By Melissa Myers and Michael J. Tucker Melissa Myers: This issue, we are going to kick off the season. Michael J. Tucker: The season to be jolly? I thought we were done with that. Myers: We are, and I hope it was jolly for all our readers. The season I’m talking about is tax season. Tucker: Ah, yes. And we are fortunate to have a community income tax professional to help us bring on the good cheer, namely, enrolled agent Bob Lind of Camelwest Tax Services. Bob, what should LGBTQ taxpayers be thinking about as they get ready to prepare their tax returns for 2015? Lind: Well, tax laws, IRS publications and instructions are not necessarily written with same-sex couples in mind, so it takes some extra effort to read between the lines and apply them to our situation(s). Myers: Then it’s even more important for same-sex couples to seek out guidance from an experienced tax professional who works
with a lot of other clients from within the LGBTQ community. Lind: I agree. Married same-sex couples face the new reality of joint income tax returns. But, for unmarried couples, how to treat joint expenses requires that your tax advisor must be familiar with the applicable laws and be able to apply them accurately to your situation. Tucker: Many “mainstream” tax preparers may be unfamiliar with these issues. Lind: It might make a difference in situations where unmarried couples are trying to maximize the combined tax savings, as well as simple matters such as knowing which community organizations can accept taxdeductible donations. Advisors who deal with many openly LGBTQ clients will likely be familiar with issues that might affect us, such as tax implications of nontraditional parenting situations. Myers: Bob, how can a taxpayer find out if a tax professional really has sufficient experience in planning for same-sex couples? What questions should they ask? Lind: Ask how long they have been in practice and what percentage of their clients are identify Hospice care is all about as part of the LGBTQ community (for me, it quality of life…and making the averages at about 75 most of the time you have left. percent). Regardless of their sexual orientation, For the most compassionate care… advisors who advertise choose Hospice of the Valley. regularly in LGBTQ publications are likely Proudly serving the LGBT community. have a lot of same-sex clients, and are familiar CALL 602.530.6900 OR VISIT HOV.ORG with the issues at hand. You might also ask your friends which advisers they use and in whom they have confidence. Tucker: And what about alphabet soup? What designations should be a minimum requirement for a qualified tax professional? N OT F O R P R O F I T. F O R CO M F O RT. Lind: Anyone can call Lin Sue Cooney, director of community engagement themselves a “tax Funding provided by donations designated for marketing. preparer,” because no
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laws currently require licensing, minimum education or registration, although legislation has been introduced that may change that. However, an attorney or CPA (licensed by the state) or enrolled agent (licensed by the Treasury Department) has to meet specific education, ethical and continuing education requirements, which are strictly monitored by their licensing agencies. Myers: Good to know. I’ve been impressed with the ability of LGBTQ-knowledgeable tax professionals to work with such unusual situations as one partner supporting the other while they go back to school or are unemployed, they both support one partner’s child who lives with them, dealing with health insurance benefits, situations where you may be able to pay (and deduct) your unmarried partner’s medical expenses or even unusual dependency issues. Lind: Right. We make a practice of understanding these situations. In addition, we’ll be able to advise someone of the tax implications of their retirement planning and joint investment options. We may suggest consulting an attorney for estate planning and perhaps a prenuptial agreement or a “living together” agreement. In effect, we work with these professionals as a team to address your needs and protect your interests. Tucker: The best work we do for clients is when all pistons are firing in sync – where the attorney, financial planner and taxprofessional are all on the same page and familiar with the unique strategies for planning as an unmarried individual or couple. Myers: Thanks, Bob, for helping our readers get in the spirit of the season – the tax season, that is. Melissa Myers is a certified financial planner with Camelback Retirement Planners, in Phoenix, a registered representative with Commonwealth Financial Network and a registered investment adviser. Michael Tucker is an attorney with Michael J. Tucker, P.C., in Phoenix, and is a certified specialist in estate and trust law. For more information, see their respective ads. This material has been provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute either tax or legal advice. Investors should consult a tax or legal professional regarding their individual situation. Neither Camelback nor Commonwealth offers tax or legal advice.
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OUT & ABOUT Strike Out Hunger Jan. 9 at the Let It Roll Bowl, Phoenix. Photos by KJ Philp.
For more Echo photos visit echomag.com/gallery.
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• • • • • • • Nello A Rossi MD • 2 0 1 E a s t M o n t e r e y Wa y • Phoenix AZ 85012 • w w w. W i l l o M e d i S p a . c o m • (602) 296-4477 •
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Local business
OUT & ABOUT GPGLCC Monthly Luncheon Jan. 8 at the Marcellino Ristorante, Scottsdale. Photos by Bill Gemmill.
For more Echo photos visit echomag.com/gallery.
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daily bar specials BUNKHOUSE S $1 drafts and HH prices all day and night M 6 p.m., 8 p.m. and 10 p.m.: Free-to-join poker. HH prices for participants. Winners get $10 Bunkhouse bar tabs
T 7 and 10 p.m.: Free-to-join poker. HH prices for
participants. Winners get $10 Bunkhouse bar tabs
W 9 p.m. Karaoke T Underwear night: $1 off all drinks if in skivvies! F 8 p.m.-close: $2.50 Miller family products. 4 and 6 p.m.: Free-to-join poker
S 8 p.m.-close: $2.50 Bud family products
CHARLIE’S S Super HH 4-7 p.m., $3 pitchers; $3 Long Islands open to close M 2-8 p.m. 2-for-1 well and domestic bottles, $3 pitchers; 8 p.m.-close, 1/2 off cocktails and beer for those in underwear, $3 Jack Daniels
T 2-8 p.m. 2-for-1 well and domestic bottles, $3 pitchers; 2-for-1 cocktails and beer 8 p.m.- close
W 2-8 p.m. 2-for-1 well and domestic bottles, $3 pitchers; $3 Three Olives vodka flavors, 8 p.m.-close
T 2-8 p.m. 2-for-1 well and domestic bottles, $3 pitchers; 2-for-1 cocktails and beer open-close
F 2-7 p.m. 2-for-1 well and domestics, $3 pitchers;
HH 7-9 p.m.; $1 well and domestics, $1 drafts 10 p.m.midnight
S Noon-7 p.m. 2-for-1 well and domestics; HH 7-9 p.m.; $1 well and domestics, $3 Absolut and Bacardi flavors 10 p.m.-midnight
KOBALT S HH 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Bar Match Buy-In Dart Tourney 2 p.m.;
BAR CODES: M Mostly Males F Mostly Females MF Mixed Male/Female
N R D
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2-4-1 call drinks 7-8 p.m.; Karaoke 9 p.m.
Country Dancing Leather/Bears Entertainment (drag, strippers, etc.)
M HH open to close; Drag Bingo 9:30 p.m.; $5 Absolut cocktails
T Karaoke 9 p.m.; HH open to close W HH 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Martinis & Massage 6 p.m.; $5 Martinis,
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M, D, L 602-956-2885
14
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M, N 602-200-9154
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F, C 602-244-9943
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S $1 Rolling Rock pints and well drinks until 10 p.m. M Karaoke, 9 p.m.-close; HH and
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T HH, 4-8 p.m.; $1 draft pint, $3 monthly charity shots, $4
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T Thirsty Thursday; HH and $1 draft pint, 4-8 p.m.; $1 draft
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$5 Bacardi flavors; Garden Variety Revue with Olivia Gardens 9 p.m.
T HH 11 a.m.- 8 p.m.; Trivia Night w/cash prize 9 p.m.; $4 Stoli cocktails 8 p.m.-midnight
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S HH 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Showtune night
$3 monthly charity shots ALL DAY
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OUT & ABOUT Mr Phoenix Leather 2016 Jan. 9 at the Embassy Suites Phoenix Airport Hotel. Photos by Gregg Edelman.
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ACCOMMODATIONS Royal Villa
p. 59
ACCOUNTANTS/ TAX PREPARATION Camelwest Tax Service
p. 59
Jeffrey J. Quatrone PLLC p. 51 Robert F. Hockensmith, CPA, PC
p. 39
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Squirt
p. 65
Arcadia Dentistry My Dentist
Monarch Apartments
ART GALLERY Exposures International Gallery of Fine Art 66 |
FEBRUARY 2016
p. 4 •
p. 33
S.A.M.A-Melrose Street Festival
p. 27
Scottsdale Center For the Arts
p. 68
Vape-A-Vet
p. 2
FINANCIAL SERVICES
p. 59 p. 51
EDUCATION Maricopa County Community College District p. 55 AZ Gay Rodeo Association p. 25 Chandler Center for the Arts p. 38 Eat Your Art Out Chandler p. 43 Echo Readers Choice Awards p. 20,21 Homo Rodeo p. 64
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REALTORS Arizona Gay Realtors Alliance p. 3 Bradley B. Brauer, HomeSmart
p. 3
David Oesterle, ReMax
p. 3
Fred Delgado Team, Keller Williams
p. 3
Jan Dahl, HomeSmart
p. 3
Joshua Fetchik, West USA Reality
p. 60
Matthew Hoedt, Realty One p. 3 Michael Smith, p. 60
One Realty Group
p. 60
Nicholas Yale, Realty Executives
p. 3
Arizona’s Mr. Fix It
p. 60
Don’s Painting Service
p. 60
Lyons Roofing
p. 57
RELIGIOUS GROUPS
Merry Maids
p. 47
Quandt Landscaping
p. 60
Community Church of Hope p. 60
Rainbow Bug
p. 60
Studio Z
p. 19
The Mattress Man
p. 50
HOSPICE p. 56
INSURANCE Benefits Arizona Hector Cerda, Allstate
p. 51 p. 3
MARKETING GPGLCC
EVENTS p. 58
Phoenix Pride Inc.
Hospice of the Valley
Off Chute Too
East and West Apartments p. 59
p. 30
Richard A. Peel Construction p. 58
COSMETIC PROCEDURES
p. 65
APARTMENTS
Phoenix Frontrunners
HOME SERVICES
Flex Spas Phoenix
p. 59
p. 14
Community Tire & Automotive Specialists p. 5 Compu-Tech Automotive p. 57
p. 64
Valdez Refrigeration
Music Festival
JW Advisors Inc.
Chute
Mustang Air Mechanical p. 59
McDowell Mountain
AUTO SERVICES
Deaf Access of Arizona, Inc p. 63 Mariann Arcari Rubin, LCSW p. 51 TERROS Incorporated p. 55
AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING
p. 17
p. 11
MORTGAGES
Shawn Hertzog, West USA p. 3
First Congregational UCC
RESTAURANTS China Chili
p. 16
COR Tapas & Wine
p. 42
Hula’s Modern Tiki
p. 42
Marcellino Ristorante
p. 42
RETAIL Easley’s Fun Shop
RETIREMENT PLANNING Calvin Goetz, Strategy Financial Group p. 3 Camelback Retirement
Capital Mortgage
Planners
p. 3
MOVERS
p. 61
SALONS p. 60
PHARMACIES CVS/CareMark Pharmacy p. 63 Fairmont Pharmacy
p. 61
French Designer Jeweler p. 47
Jeremy Schachter, Pinnacle
Two Men and a Truck
p. 61
p. 55
PLUMBERS
Salon Exodus
p. 61
WELLNESS Arizona Neuromodulation Center
p. 18
FitPro, LLC
p. 61
Brothers Plumbing
p. 57
Ophthalmic Surgeons
PlumberTime
p. 60
& Physicians
p. 13
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â&#x20AC;¢
FEBRUARY 2016
| 67
Out at the Center! ScottsdalePerformingArts.org 480-499-TKTS (8587)
BalletBoyz
Friday, Feb. 19, 8 p.m.
Pilobolus
Friday, March 4 8 p.m. Saturday, March 5 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Michael Feinstein Sinatra Centennial Celebration
Saturday, Feb. 27, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.
TAO: Seventeen Samurai
Thursday, March 10, 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 11, 8 p.m.
Broadway Back Together Avenue Q Saturday, March 12, 8 p.m. 68 |
FEBRUARY 2016
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Photo: Robert Whitman