The Community Voice - December 2008 by Aaron Whippo

Daytrips can counter the winter blues

See what’s new and hot with D.J. Sparkplug

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Plan your holiday with area activities

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December, 2008

Volume 1, Issue 2

Documentary fosters dialogue by bringing rural GLBT issues to the forefront By Bob Howden When Oil City native Joe Wilson wanted to share the joy of his marriage, he like so many others, paid to put an announcement in The Derrick, Oil City’s daily paper, and The News-Herald of Franklin. But this announcement was different, and the community reaction was less than celebratory. Joe Wilson and his partner, Dean Hamer were married in Canada in April, 2004, and the announcement was published along with other local weddings. What would follow would change their lives, and the lives of many other Venango County residents forever. At first, the letters to the newspaper and the public comments about the announcement were negative, if not down-right hateful. But soon other letters and comments defending Wilson and Hamer began to come forward and soon, Venango County was engaged in a dialogue about – of all things – the importance of diversity. The couple decided to turn this dialogue into a documentary, dealing with the issues of homosexuality, diversity and tolerance in rural America. Some four years later, Out in

Contributed photo C.J. Bills (left) gets a quick lesson in video camera techniques from Dean Hamer (right). Bills, who suffered harassment and physical abuse in high school because of being gay, is featured in the documentary film, Out in the Silence, which is being produced by Hamer and his partner, Joe Wilson. the Silence is now in the final editing stages and will be aired next year on Public Broadcasting television. According to Wilson, the aim of Out in the Silence is to expand public awareness about the difficulties that gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people face in rural and small town

America and to promote dialogue that will help people on all sides of the issues find common ground. That aim is clearly evident as Wilson and Hamer delve into the stories of students C.J. Bills and Tim Dahle. Bills and Dahle both endured daily harassment and anguish as openly gay teens at Franklin

High School and Titusville High School respectively. After learning about their plight, Wilson and Hamer were determined to tell the story of two rural teens who had the courage to stand up to bigotry and intolerance in their schools See SILENCE

DECember, 2008

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‘Allow me to introduce ...’ someone who is fighting for our rights By Kathy Czarnecki “Arguments erupt over the inclusion of ‘under God’ in the Pledge of Allegiance, while the pledge itself is meaningless for failure to ensure ‘justice for all.’” These are just some of the words shared in her testimony spoken before the PA Senate Judiciary Committee in April of this year. “The Commonwealth Constitution cannot T h e

C o m m u n i t y

The Community Voice is a monthly newsletter published by Erie Gay Pride, Inc. and four29media. The newsletter is designed to present news, features and other content of interest to the Erie regional GLBT community, its supporters and friends. If you have items to submit for publication consideration, please email them to content@ eriecv.org or mail them to The Community Voice, Erie Gay Pride, Inc., P.O. Box 8027, Erie, PA 16505. CoEditors: Kim Young and Bob Howden.

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Doris Cippola and Charlene Tanner shared a love of social justice and throughout their lives attended many rallies, carried their share of picket signs and gave freely of their time to causes they felt most deeply for. become a vehicle to enforce church/religious laws.” Doris Cippola is obviously not shy about her views regarding the marriage ban not only in this state, but others as well. “And it isn’t just about marriage,” Doris stated, “it is about all the other rights we are denied just because there are those who say it is wrong to love those we love.” Doris came out publicly with these statements after Charlene Tanner, her partner of 35 years and love of her life, passed away from cancer at the age of 70. Primarily it was in reaction to finding out that she would be subject to the same inheritance taxes that would be levied against a friend or complete stranger. In Pennsylvania, same-sex partners do not have

the same estate rights as those awarded to married persons. Prior to this the women had chosen to remain silent about their relationship, both fearing loss of jobs and ridicule from neighbors or co-workers. “It was a different time then,” states Doris, “not that it is easy to be ‘out’ in Erie now, but it is much more accepted than it was 20 to 30 years ago.” Both Doris and Char shared a love of social justice and throughout their lives attended many rallies, carried their share of picket signs and gave freely of their time to causes they felt most deeply for. Their home is filled with art work they purchased together, furniture they saved up to buy. It is wall to wall projects they worked on while living there as

they continued to create a home for one another and for themselves. “I will let you interview me,” Doris stipulated, “Only if you let me introduce Char to you as well.” She talked of their starting out together in a cottage near the lake. After a time, purchasing the home they lived in for the remainder of their time together. What was obvious to me while we talked was her passion for changing the laws in our state that do not recognize same-sex couples. “We have to show up for these things, even if you send a letter or an e-mail to all elected officials. They have to know we are out here and that we do not agree with these laws,” See RIGHTS

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DECember, 2008

Day trips can make enjoyable escapes from the winter blues By Bob Howden

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It won’t be long before the gray winter sky and Lake Effect snow make their way back into our lives. It’s also time to think of some creative ways to address those winter blues and have fun. While we’d all love to escape on a sunny cruise, it may be more practical (and cheaper) to plan a few day trips. If you’re looking for something a bit different, head south from Ashtabula, Oh., on Route 11 and visit The Homer Laughlin China Company in Newell, Wv., manufacturers of the “gayest” china on earth – Genuine Fiesta Ware! Fiesta Ware is great for many reasons. First, it’s made in the good old USA, so buying it is patriotic! Second, it comes in literally every color in the rainbow – and more. And you’re not just buying red, orange, yellow or blue china, you are purchasing colors such as scarlet, tangerine, sunflower and cobalt. If you want to get even more “daring,” there’s always peacock, cinnabar, heather and plum! The Retail Outlet at the Homer Laughlin plant offers two great shopping opportunities. You can purchase first quality Fiesta Ware at prices less than those are local department stores. They also have all of those individual pieces that may be hard to find, such as meat platters, sugar bowls, gravy boats, etc. My favorite place however, is the “seconds room.” Visiting the “seconds room” is part adventure, part scavenger hunt. It reminds me of a big barn complete with stalls, but instead of animals, the stalls are occupied with piles and piles of “second” plates, bowls, pitchers, platters and more in all different colors. These items all contain some manufacturing flaw that prevents them from being sold as first quality. Some of the flaws are major and very obvious. Others are so slight you have to look carefully to spot them. Obviously, those are the items you

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As you head to the Homer Laughlin China Company outlet, you will have to cross the historic Newell Toll Bridge built in 1905. seek in the “seconds room,” which is what turns the adventure into a scavenger hunt. You literally search through piles of items seeking that (near) perfect plate, bowl, or whatever. And when you find the right piece, it’s a feeling of triumph! Keep in mind that just about anything stored in this “barn-like” setting is bound to be dusty and soiled, so come prepared to get you hands dirty. The Outlet is open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 12 noon to 5 on Sundays; and if you are interested, tours of the manufacturing plant are available weekdays. Travel time from Erie to Newell is just over two hours. Once you’ve had enough shopping and have stored you treasures away in your car, you don’t need to rush home. These are other interesting attractions in the Newell area. Right down the road from the Homer Laughlin factory is Mountaineer Casino.

And if you enjoy antique shopping, head back across the Ohio River to downtown East Liverpool, Oh., and go to the Pottery City Antique Mall at 4th and Washington streets. The building contains multiple floors of antiques and more than 200 dealer spaces. It is open seven days a week from 10 to 6 and 12 to 6 on Sundays. As you cross the Ohio River between East Liverpool and Newell, you will drive over the historic Newell Toll Bridge. Built in 1905 and refurbished in 1954, this narrow and picturesque suspension bridge carries some 2,000 vehicles per day with a toll charge of 75 cents each way. However, if you give the toll collector $1 the first time you cross, instead of 25 cents in change, you get two tickets for two free trips across the bridge. The math doesn’t exactly add up but who cares. It’s just part of the charm of this little corner of rural America.

DECember, 2008

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Dance, dance, dance: Hot club music By D.J. Sparkplug There’s lots of great, new, hot club music this month! Since the HoliDAZE always comes fast, check out Kristine W’s HOT new Christmas CD “Hey Mr. Christmas.” This CD has some great old and new Christmas songs done as only Kristine can do them! You’ll love this Christmas CD. Let’s look at some other hot new releases this month. India’s “Can’t Get No Sleep 2008,” Supernova’s “No Secrets,”

Jes’ “Imagination,” Evan Cowden’s “Label Whore,” Lasgo’s “Out Of My Mind,” a real house hit by Uberfett called “Zoomah,” Atlanta’s “5 Star Lover,” Mood II Swing’s “Reach For You” and David Penn & Robert Gaez’ “What is House?” are some really hot new club releases. Now, my personal favorite and sure to be a HUGE hit in the club scene is one with Jeanie Tracy and Pepper Mashay. The girls teamed up and leant their vocals on a new track, “Maybe God Is Trying to Tell You Something,” which also

features the powerhouse vocals of Soul Sista Shakti. There are lots of awesome releases with mixes by Bill Bennett & Edson Pride, DJ Encore, ALTAR, Julian Marsh and Luis Erre. This is sure to be a gay club anthem! You can always hear the best club music online at www.clubbersguideradio. com. DJ Louis Louis plays the hottest club music on the Montréal scene! Check back next month for hot, new club music releases. We’ll also have the top 20 singles too!

Book Review

Finding true love under ‘The Rainbow Cedar’ By Twila The Community voice

The Rainbow Cedar by Gerri Hill is a story about the perils of familiarity and complacency. After eight years of what felt like the good life, Jay finds herself questioning if her path in life is actually leading anywhere. While struggling to get her business up and running Jay has to deal with her overbearing, all about me, partner who thinks her business is just a hobby to pass the time. Because she starts questioning her career and her love life or lack there-

of, she calls on her best friend Audrey for some therapy at the local bar “Rhondas.” In route to her ‘therapy’ session, she literally runs into her future. Needless to say, when a gorgeous woman stands on the sidewalk in nothing but a red sports bra and a pair of shorts, something is bound to happen. Having a minor fender-bender, margarita therapy with your best friend, all while harboring a mind full of self doubt, Jay finally decides to take control of the rest of her life. For most people, having a minor car accident is bad

thing, but for Jay it was the best thing that could have happened. The red sports bra was the so-called victim in this accident, but nothing could have been farther from the truth. After exchanging all the pertinent info, Jay discovers that she and Drew (red sports bra) work in the same circles. Over time, Jay and Drew’s paths keep crossing and Jay’s business finally starts to prosper. Because of this, Jay’s partner Katherine, finally starts to feel some of what Jay had been going through for quite some time.

In a desperate attempt to save their relationship, Katherine plans a vacation for herself and Jay. Even though Jay doesn’t think she should leave her work so soon after having it take off, she agrees to go with Katherine and see if there is anything left to save. While preparing for the trip, Jay discovers that Katherine has invited another “couple” to join them. While they take you on a beautiful 2-week trip to Hawaii, it all becomes clear to Jay and Drew, that love can truly be found under The Rainbow Cedar.

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DECember, 2008

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Latest court cases have implications for community By Jake Kaskey Perhaps Equality Advocates is bestknown for its work on the frontlines of changing policy in the statehouse. But as an organization, Equality Advocates also focuses much of its energy and time providing direct legal services to LGBT people across Pennsylvania, as well as litigating cases that would have a tremendous affect on the daily lives of LGBT people. It is this hand-in-hand approach between policy reform and legal action that makes the organization’s work in Pennsylvania unique across the country. Over the past several months, several cases in Pennsylvania have moved forward that have implications for all LGBT people: The Third Circuit Heard a Gender Discrimination Case On Oct. 1, the United States Court of Appeals heard oral arguments on a case in which a man was fired because his employer deemed him to be both effeminate and a “sinner.” The case was filed by Pittsburgh resident Brian Prowell against his former employer, Wise Business Forms. Equality Advocates Pennsylvania serves as one of three co-counsels to Mr. Prowell, along with Pittsburgh attorney Timothy P. O’Brien and

former Equality Advocates Employment Rights Project Attorney, Katie Eyer of Salmanson Goldshaw, P.C. in Philadelphia. In his lawsuit, Mr. Prowell asserted that Wise engaged in sex discrimination by allowing him to be harassed due to his perceived gender non-conforming characteristics. Mr. Prowell further contends that Wise engaged in unlawful retaliation by terminating his employment after he complained of the harassment. Finally, Mr. Prowell asserts that Wise allowed him to be harassed because his lifestyle choices did not comply with the religious beliefs of the company. The Third Circuit heard this case on appeal after a federal trial judge in Pittsburgh dismissed all of Mr. Prowell’s claims on the basis of his “failure to state a claim upon which relief can be granted.” The Third Circuit is not required to schedule an oral argument for all appeals filed with the court, and Equality Advocates is optimistic about the Third Circuit’s decision to schedule an oral argument in this matter. Former Equality Advocates Employment Rights Project Attorney Katie Eyer presented the oral argument before a three judge panel which included Judges D. Michael Fisher, Michael A. Chagares and Thomas M. Hardiman.

SEPTA TransPass Complaint Moves Forward On Sept. 19, the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations voted unanimously to investigate a gender identity discrimination complaint brought against the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA). The complaint alleges that SEPTA’s requirement that the purchaser of a transpass identify the sex of the person who will use it is a violation of the City’s Fair Practices Ordinance. SEPTA had asked the Commission to dismiss the complaint, claiming that the Commission does not have jurisdiction over the transportation agency. The Commission, relying on a recommendation from the City Law Department, instead ruled that it has jurisdiction and will investigate the complaint. SEPTA, which is represented by the firm of Dilworth Paxson LLP, has threatened to appeal. Charlene Moore, a transgender woman, filed the complaint 19 months ago when she was denied entry to a SEPTA bus because the driver did not believe that her appearance matched the sticker on her transpass. Ms. Moore is represented by Equality Advocates Pennsylvania. Jake Kaskey is Policy and Outreach Coordinator for Equality Advocates Pennsylvania.

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DECember, 2008

Are you in danger? SafeNet offers help and advice

By SafeNet Staff Intimate partner violence (IPV) is often misunderstood. It can happen to anyone, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. Abuse is a pattern of manipulative behavior used by one person to gain power and control over another person. An attack can be physical, sexual or psychological. The attack is not due to a lack of self-control – rather the need for complete control (or as much control as possible) over another. No situation is ever the same; therefore SafeNet advocates say, “It depends,” when asked what a victim could do about the

abuse. There are many tactics of power and control. It depends on the abusive person, what has worked before – and what is working now – to gain and maintain that power and control. Physical abuse reported by hospitals and police is literally the tip of the iceberg. Much

physical abuse goes unreported. Physical attacks are often the last method of control to be added. Emotional / verbal / psychological abuse tactics almost always come first. The control process moves slowly in the early stages of the relationship and is sometimes hard to identify. Psychological brainwashing erodes away at self esteem, leaving survivors confused. Abusers typically take no responsibility for their actions. They downplay the feelings and opinions of their victims, and blame them for the abuse. A typical batterer’s apology is this: “I’m sorry I had to hit you, but

if you’d just done what I said, I wouldn’t have had to do it.” A victim of IPV is often afraid of the consequences of leaving. Yet many people say things such as: “If someone hit me, I’d just leave! What’s the matter with you?” As if it was easy to get away. Abusers will do and say anything to get their victims to come back or stay. They need their victims –– and often feel that they love them. It’s just that their love is not defined in the same way that healthy people define love. Abusive people do not See SAFENET

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DECember, 2008

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DECember, 2008

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DECember, 2008

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DECember, 2008

In your community Come enjoy a special “Family” holiday dinner

Good food, friendship and festivities will come together Sunday, Dec. 28, as PFLAG and Erie Gay Pride, Inc. sponsor a potluck Holiday Dinner. The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Erie will be the site of the dinner which begins at 5 p.m. Turkey and ham will be prepared for all to enjoy, but since this a potluck dinner, those attending are asked to bring a dish to share with the group. Soft drinks will be provided as well. Alcohol is not permitted. This will be neutral, Holiday Dinner, not religious based, but instead a time for socialization and conversation with other “family” and friends. There is no charge to attend the dinner, but those attending are asked to make reservations so adequate preparations can be made. Reservations can be made online www.eriegaypride.org. We are also looking for volunteers to assist with this event. If you would like to assist at the dinner, email eriegaypride@ gmail.com. The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Erie is located at 7180 Perry Highway, Erie.

Ideas sought for gender, sexuality conference

issues of gender and sexuality to be included in a two-day conference being held at the university on Feb. 12 and 13. Last year’s successful conference drew participants from the faculty, the student body, neighboring schools including Gannon University and Mercyhurst College and the community. This year, organizers are making a special push to encourage community participation in the program. This year’s conference theme is “What does the future hold for men and women?” A fortune cookie offers a pithy answer and often provokes more questions than it satisfies. The theme can be interpreted in creative/academic works along many lines, including (but not limited to) v Life issues for LGBT citizens of Erie v Questions of financial wealth and gender equity v How gender and sexuality impact personal or professional paths to success

v Gender and the construction of “luck” or “fate” v Predictions for a more gender-equitable future, and pathways to get there v Creating a more fortunate classroom with respect to gender, race, class and sexual orientation. v The impact of “the fortunate fall” v The rocky fortunes of romance and sexuality Organizers welcome submissions of individual papers, panels, pedagogical roundtables and artistic works. Pre-formed panels, or topics for pedagogical discussion are particularly welcomed. Please send abstracts of no more than 250 words describing your project. Submissions will remain the property of the screening committee. To Submit Electronically: 1. Title your email “Fortunes Conference Submission LAST NAME HERE” 2. Send your abstract either in the body of your email or as a .doc attachment to this address: fortunes.conference.behrend@ gmail.com. To Submit via Mail: Send abstracts to: Fortunes Conference, 170 Irvin Kochel Center, Penn State Erie, The Behrend College, 4951 College Drive, Erie, PA 16563.

G2H2 gathering set for Dec. 5

G2H2 (Gay Guy/Girl Happy Hour) will be holding its next gathering Friday Dec. 5, at Matthews Trattoria, 153 E 13th St., Erie. The event runs from 6-8 p.m. Modeled after similar groups in the Pittsburgh and Cleveland areas, G2H2 offers members of the GLBT community and their straight friends an opportunity to network and socialize. G2H2 also provides an opportunity to enhance the image of the local GLBT community in the Erie region by providing economic support to friendly business establishments.

Latonia schedules programs for December

If you are looking for something different to do in December, head to The Latonia Theater in Oil City for some interesting holiday programs. On Saturday, Dec. 6 at 1:30 p.m., The

Latonia will show “A Christmas Wish – The Great Rupert,” a 1950 movie classic starring Jimmy Durante. A family down on their luck meets a squirrel who brings Christmas joy. Jimmy Durante sings some Christmas favorites. Head back to The Latonia on Saturday, Dec. 13, at 1:30 p.m. for “Santa Conquers the Martians.” This movie is being presented in conjunction with the Southside Business association Stuff Your Stocking event. This campy 1964 movie with a timeless message will be shown with a classic holiday cartoon, followed by an original 1945 holiday Newsreel. Admission is $3 for adults. Children under 12 are free but must be accompanied by an adult. Also on Saturday, Dec. 13, the Oil City Gay/Straight Alliance presents ‘Tis the Season to be Jolly’ at 8 p.m. at The Latonia. Don your Gay apparel and join in the celebration of the truest meaning of Christmas – Peace on Earth – Good will toward all! This social event is BYOB. Admission is $5. Jill from Pittsburgh will DJ along with a live performance surprise or two. On Saturday, Dec. 19, at 7:30 p.m., Garrison Starr, Pop/Rock/Alternative singer, songwriter and guitarist will perform in concert. With her new CD “Girl that Killed September” recorded in Nashville and just released nationwide, Garrison provides fresh insight into contemporary life. Adriane opens the concert with original folk/alternative songs. This program is sponsored by Venango Campus FREE. For more information, log on to www. thelatonia.com or www.youtube.com/thelatonia.

National News Notes . . .

Governor urges protesters to fight California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has expressed hope that his state’s Supreme Court will overturn Proposition 8, the ballot initiative that outlawed same-sex marriage. He also predicted that the 18,000 gay and lesbian couples who have already married would not be affected by the initiative. “It’s unfortunate, obviously, but it’s not the end,” Schwarzenegger said in an interview on CNN. “I think that we will again maybe undo that, if the court is willing to do that, and then move forward from there and again lead in that area.” The Republican Governor’s thinking on the issue of gay marriage has been evolving over the past few years. In the past, he has said he personally believes marriage should be between a man and a woman and opposed attempts by the California legislature to pass laws authorizing same-sex marriage. Yet he has also said he would not care if same-sex marriage were legal, saying he believed that such an important societal issue should be determined by the voters or the courts. After the California Supreme Court ruled that banning samesex marriage was unconstitutional, Schwarzenegger publicly opposed Proposition 8, which amends the state Constitution to declare that “only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California.” The Governor now urges backers of gay marriage to follow the lesson he learned as a bodybuilder trying to lift weights that were too heavy for him at first. “I learned that you should never ever give up.

DECember, 2008

... They should never give up. They should be on it and on it until they get it done.” Election day yielded positive outcomes The news headlines made it clear that Election Day was not a good day for the GBLT community. Same-sex marriage bans were approved in California, Florida and Arizona. Arkansas voters approved a measure prohibiting children from being placed in adoptive or foster homes where adults are cohabiting outside of marriage. While the ban applies equally to opposite and same sex unmarried couples, organizers of the measure said they were clearly targeting gays and lesbians. While these votes were extremely dissappointing, not all of the Election Day news was bad for the GLBT community. The election of Democrat Barack Obama as President over Republican John McCain is seen as a plus by gay rights advocates. Although both candidates oppose same-sex marriage, Obama supports federal hate crimes legislation, supports efforts to include sexual orientation as a category in federal anti-discrimation laws and supports ending the military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. In addition, Election Day saw voters elect a third openly gay individual to the U.S. House of Representatives. Colorado businessman Jared Polis, a Democrat, won his Congressional election with 60% of the vote. Voters also returned the nation’s two other gay members of Congress by wide margins. Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin was reelected with some 69% of the vote and Massachusetts Congressman Barney Frank received 68% of the vote in his district.

Also in Colorado, anti-gay Congresswoman Marilyn Musgrave was defeated by Democrat Betsy Markey by a margin of 55% to 45%. Musgrave is best know for introducing the federal anti-gay marriage constitutional amendment in the U.S. House of Representatives and was the bill’s chief proponent. Same-sex marriage may come to New York Could New York be the next battleground state for same-sex marriage? The Nov. 4 general election may have opened the door for the debate to occur in New York. As a result of the election, control of the New York State Senate will shift from the Republicans to the Democrats. The pending shift removes one clear obstacle to legalizing gay marriage in New York, though opponents aren’t conceding anything yet and advocates say they have work to do. Democrats won a narrow majority in New York’s Senate, where Republicans have buried legislation to start issuing marriage licenses regardless of gender, but a Senate power shift was not a sure thing. “The only chance we had for meaningful debate or consideration of these issues in the state Senate was with a new Senate leadership,” said Alan Van Capelle, executive director of the Empire State Pride Agenda,

New York’s largest gay rights advocacy group. He added that no bills have passed in New York without some votes from members of both parties. The Rev. Duane Motley, founder of New Yorkers for Constitutional Freedoms, which opposes gay marriage, said they knew that with Republicans in control of the Senate that legislation to legalize same-sex marriage “was not going to come up.” With Democrats in control, he said party members will be pushing for it, but he questioned whether they have the votes to be successful. L.A. bar given landmark status A Los Angeles bar that was the site of watershed gay rights protests in the 1960s has been designated a city landmark. The Los Angeles City Council has voted to name the bar, once called the Black Cat, a cultural-historic monument. Police raided the neighborhood bar that served a largely gay clientele at a celebration early on New Year’s Day of 1967 and arrested 14 patrons and bartenders. In the months after the raid, hundreds protested for gay rights in front of the bar, now called Le Barcito. Landmark proponent Wes Joe says recognizing the bar reminds people how far gay rights have advanced, despite the recent passage of Proposition 8.

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DECember, 2008

The Community Voice

want their victims to leave. They threaten and stalk and harass and sometimes, they are willing to kill. Be careful when trying to help someone living with an abusive relationship. Tread lightly, and never give advice! Listening is by far the best thing to offer. Telling someone “to just leave” could actually get them killed! Leaving must be the choice of the survivor – and well planned in regards to safety. Professionals – advocates in the domestic violence field – have the kind of information needed in order for someone to make an informed decision. At SafeNet, we offer confidential assistance in safety planning. We have the resources to help. Call our 24-hour helpline at 454-8161 We are here. SILENCE, from

RIGHTS, from

SAFENET, from

– and the determination to tell their stories to the world. “It’s their courage and commitment to live their lives openly and authentically that is helping the area to overcome the limitations, and often-harmful effects, of religion, tradition, and the status quo,” Wilson says. Although they live in Washington, DC, Wilson and Hamer have spent a great deal of time in Venango County working on their documentary, interviewing individuals on both sides of the issue and in the process, fostering a remarkable community dialogue about love, hate and understanding in the rural heartland. Their unique combination of filmmaking and advocacy has led to the formation of a local grassroots group to promote diversity, changes in the school system and tolerance. “As a result of CJ and Kathy’s (CJ’s mother) willingness to speak out and follow their complaint through a long legal process with the support of the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission and the ACLU, the

The Community Voice About 80 people braved the rain Nov. 15 to take part in a rally to protest the passage of Proposition 8 in California. The rally, which took place on the steps of the Erie County Courthouse, was held in conjunction with similar rallys all over the country protesting the anti same-sex marriage vote. Franklin Area School District was required to implement comprehensive diversity training programs (conducted by the FBI’s Adopt-a-School Initiative) for teachers, administrators and students,” Wilson notes. “While it may not bring an end to all prejudice and bigotry, this victory will help countless students to avoid the harassment and discrimination that hampered CJ’s education.” In Dahle’s case, the family filed a harassment law suit against the Titusville Area School District, receiving financial settlement of $312,000. Wilson and Hamer completed filming Out in the Silence in early November and are excited about their partnership with WPSU-TV in State College to broadcast the documentary across the Pennsylvania Public Television Network in 2009. They are also hopeful about broadcasts on other PBS stations around the country. “But the real value in

the film will be its use as a tool to stimulate dialogue and activism through screenings at the community level, particularly in smaller towns and rural communities, aimed at increasing visibility and achieving fairness and equality for GLBT people,” Wilson says. “We’re building outreach and educational campaigns with the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force, People for the American Way and the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations. And we’d love to continue to expand this network.” Individuals or groups interested in helping to coordinate screenings should contact Wilson directly at: QwavesJoe@

Doris said. Equally, or if not more obvious was the deep and abiding love and respect she held for the woman who was her life partner. Whether it was Sunday meals with family, enjoying a sunset from their deck, or a quiet evening at home, they truly loved being together and sharing each day. I want to thank you for your time and wisdom Doris. I was so looking forward to meeting you and hearing about Char. Know I am honored to have met you both. Doris continues to lend her voice and her time to the gayrights movement here in Erie. yahoo.com or by calling (202) 588-5785. Wilson admits that making this film was not easy and there is much work to be done in the Venango County region, “but the courage that our main characters have shown and the transformations that they have helped bring about will show audiences the remarkable change that is possible when people in small towns come together and begin to speak out about their lives.”

The Community Voice

Calendar of events

December, 2008

December 1

World AIDS Day

sG2H2

Chanukah

12 sWatchFire

19 sGarrison

sHoliday conccert

sLatonia movie

party sDenise Russel

sLatonia movie sGay/Straight Alliance social

Pearl Harbor Remembrance

Christmas

Winter Solstice

28 s ‘Family’

Holiday Dinner

New Year’s Eve

G2H2

G2H2, 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, December 5, at Matthews Trattoria, 153 E. 13th St., Erie, Pa. 16503, (814) 459-6458.

Holiday concert

Penn State Behrend Choir’s holiday concerts are on Saturday, Dec. 6 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 7 at 4 p.m., Smith Chapel. Tickets are $5 general admission and can be obtained by calling RUB desk at 8986242.

Denise Russel

Drag soloist Denise Russel at The Zone Friday, Dec. 12. Don’t miss the chance to see this once-a-year performance from a Queen who sings with her own voice.

WatchFire Holiday party

WatchFire Alliance Holiday Party, Friday, Dec 12, 7 p.m., United Universalist Church of Jamestown, NY, 1255 Prendergast Ave. Contact Bethany at (716) 499-4817 or brobson515@msn.com.

Latonia Theater

Starr concert

The Latonia Theater, 1 East First St., Oil City, Pa. Movies at the Latonia v “A Christmas Wish –– The Great Rupert” 1950 classic starring Jimmy Durante. A family down on their luck meets a squirrel who brings Christmas joy. Jimmy Durante sings some Christmas favorites.

Kwanzaa

New Year’s Day

Saturday, December 6, 1:30 p.m. v “Santa Conquers the Martians” Saturday, Dec. 13. at 1:30 p.m. A campy 1964 movie with a timeless message.First, a classic holiday cartoon, followed by an original 1945 holiday News reel. $3 for adults, children under 12 free –– children must be accompanied by an adult. v ‘Tis the Season to be Jolly.’ Don your Gay apparel and join us in celebration of the truest meaning of Christmas – Peace on Earth – Good will toward all! An Oil City Gay/Straight Alliance social at the Latonia in Oil City. Saturday, Dec.13 t 8 p.m. BYOB $5. Jill from Pittsburgh will DJ along with a live performance surprise or two. v Garrison Starr –– Pop/Rock/Alternative singer, songwriter, guitarist. With her new CD “Girl that Killed September” recorded in Nashville and just released nationwide, Garrison provides fresh insight into contemporary life. Adriane opens with original folk/alternative songs. Saturday, December 19 at 7:30 p.m. Free admission. Sponsored by Venango Campus.

‘Family’ Holiday Dinner

“Family Holiday” Dinner, 5 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 28 at Unitarian Universalist Church, 7180 Perry Highway, Erie. Dinner is potluck style with turkey and ham provided (no alcohol). Sponsored by PFLAG and Erie Gay Pride, Inc.

The Community Voice

DECember, 2008