Empty Closet, August 2012 by Out Alliance

The Empty Closet

Follow us on Facebook! And did you know? The Empty Closet is now on Twitter! Follow us at http://www. twitter.com/EmptyClosetNews

local, state and national news , newsmaker interviews , opinion, entertainment, columnists , event calendars , and health resource listings

number 459

a publication of the gay alliance of the genesee valley AUGUST 2012

Partnerships The Gay Alliance appreciates the continuing partnership of businesses within our community who support our mission and vision. Gold:

Silver:

Above left: The Rainbow Flag Raising at City Hall on July 6. Top right: The crowd at the Festival on July 14. Bottom left: RPD Chief James Sheppard at the Flag Raising. Bottom right: Louise Slaughter with Dana Miller in the Parade on July 14. More photos on pp. 7-11. Bronze:

Champion:

Friend:

Pride 2012: RPD announces new trans policies By Susan Jordan Sizzling heat didn’t stop over 60 people from attending the Rainbow Flag Raising ceremony at City Hall on Friday, July 6, as Rochester Pride 2012 took off with some big news from the RPD. At the Flag Raising, Chief James Sheppard of the Rochester Police Department announced revised policies for RPD officers’ treatment of transgender people. The new policies for the Police Department involve

revised search and seizure policies, transportation of prisoner policies and more. “This will ensure that officers are respectful of transgender people,” he said. Shauna O’Toole, a trans activist, told The Empty Closet, “Any time we have a statement of respect for trans people it’s a step forward for the general community, because the police will role model how to interact with us.” On Saturday, July 14, the day of the 24th Rochester Pride

Parade and Festival, the heat was still sizzling, but so were the spirits of thousands of people along Park Ave. and Goodman St. The Flower City Pride Band and the Rochester Gay Men’s Chorus provided musical accompaniment to the colorful spectacle, and Grand Marshal Todd Plank and Honorary Grand Marshal Tom Ferrarese were greeted with applause. Superheroes abounded, as did politicians. Congresswoman Louise Slaughter, running

for re-election this year, received one of the loudest ovations. She rode with City Council member Dana Miller. Also present were Joe Morelle, Matt Haag, Harry Bronson, Judge Odorisi, Judge Gail Donofrio, Drew Langdon and Ted O’Brien. RPD Chief Sheppard marched, and the Rochester Fire Department sent a hook and ladder truck. Many people had water guns and a lot of spraying and drenching and laughing took place. (Pride 2012 continues page 12)

Conservatives fail again to repeal NYS Marriage Equality Act

sage of necessity” that allowed the Senate and the Assembly to vote on the bill without allowing members three days to study its final text and the locking-down of a part of the State Capitol building during the Senate floor debate and vote. The closed-door GOP meetings violated the state’s Open Meetings Law, NYCF alleged, while the “message of necessity” was “ultra vires,” or beyond the governor’s authority, and the Capitol lockdown prevented the plaintiffs from accessing senators, violating their freedom of speech. Last November, Livingston County Supreme Court Justice Robert Wiggins granted the defendants’ motion to dismiss the second and third claims and also ruled that the state attorney general was not a codefendant in the case. Wiggins accepted the plaintiffs’ argument that a meeting of the Republican caucus that also included non-Republicans meant it could not be sheltered by the OML’s exemption for private caucuses. That exemption states that a private party caucus qualifies even if it invites “guests,” but NYCF argued such “guests” must be members of the same political party. In unanimously reversing Wiggins and ruling that the

Senate did not violate the law, Justice Eugene Fahey wrote that the plain meaning of the statute did not limit the term “guests” in that way. A Senate party caucus can invite anybody as a guest other than a member of the Legislature from a different party, said the court. Since neither Bloomberg nor Cuomo were members of the Legislature, they could be invited as guests without the caucus losing its exemption from the requirement that public business be conducted in public. No public business was conducted at the meeting, and there is no allegation that the Republican caucus took any votes. Instead, the meeting was an

occasion for the mayor and the governor to lobby the Republican senators to support the bill. Nothing in the Open Meetings Law defines lobbying as “public business,” and there is no precedent requiring that meetings between groups of legislators and lobbyists to discuss pending legislation take place in public. The plaintiffs did not “allege that the Republican Conference agreed to pass the MEA at those meetings,” Fahey wrote, nor did (Conservatives continues pg 12)

On July 6 a panel of the New York Appellate Division unanimously rejected a conservative challenge to the Marriage Equality Act (MEA). The July 6 ruling, from the Rochester-based 4th Department, came in response to a suit brought by New Yorkers for Constitutional Freedoms (NYCF), a group whose website describes its mission as influencing “legislation and legislators for the Lord Jesus Christ” and “voicing the pro-life and pro-family perspective,” Arthur S. Leonard wrote in Gay City News. The challenge was the fourth attempt by conservatives to deprive LGBT New Yorkers and their families of a basic civil and human right, based entirely on prejudice against gays. However, the conservative group’s lawsuit claimed the MEA was not validly enacted based on the appearance of New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Governor Andrew Cuomo at closed-door meetings of the State Senate’s Republican caucus where the bill was discussed; Cuomo’s issuance of a “mes-

Harry Bronson Page 6

Contents

Newsfronts................................... 4 Interview: Harry Bronson.............. 6 Rochester Pride 2012............ 7-11 Can We Talk? ............................14 Opinion: .....................................15 My Own Private Rochester .....17 Businesses: Hedonist Chocs.....17 Columnists ................................22 Community ................................25 Entertainment: Kasha Davis......27 Gay Alliance News.....................30 Calendar.....................................34 Classifieds..................................34

Proud Publisher of New York State’s Oldest Lgbt Publication

the empty closet • the gay alliance of the genesee valley • number 459 • AUGUST 2012

Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley

Perspectives From the Empty Closet Editor Susan Jordan

The mysterious multiverse What an amazing, magical spring we had this year. Shooting stars, Supermoon, transit of Venus, huge solar flares and northern lights, billions of Red Admiral butterflies re-populating North America. It was difficult to leave the house without finding oneself in a cloud of butterflies. Once again we were reminded of what a mysterious and beautiful planet/universe we inhabit. Summer has been less lovely, with the incredible heat wave and drought across the country. And as if there weren’t enough natural problems, corporate greed (in the form of fracking, toxic emissions and pollution) has increased the dangers facing our fragile world. We don’t know if there are other planets capable of supporting life, but since there are probably infinite numbers of planets, it is very likely that life forms exist throughout the universe – or the multiverse, as some physicists are now calling it (them?). Many of these life forms may be “intelligent”. (Does intelligent life exist on Earth? Aliens watching our political campaigns this summer may be wondering.) In Buddhist tradition, there are “infinite Buddha-fields.” That could refer to the infinite number of galaxies, each like a beautiful flower containing billions of stars and worlds,

From the Interim Executive Director Anne Wakeman

that exist across a cosmos which human beings started to understand, once they got past thinking our solar system was the universe, and it revolved around, not the sun, but our little planet. But now there is another possibility – those infinite Buddha-fields may actually be infinite universes. Brian Greene, in “Welcome to the Multiverse,” a Newsweek/Daily Beast article published in May, offers an explanation intelligible to those of us who are not physicists. He writes, “…proponents of three independent developments now suggest that there are other universes separate from ours, most made from different particles and governed by different forces, populating an astoundingly vast cosmos.” There may be other universes exactly replicating ours, but with all possible variations of reality playing out slightly differently in each one. Then there could be even more universes completely different from ours in every way, each playing out all of its own possible realities in infinite variations. Read the article for the details. However, some recent theories involve the mysterious force or entity known as Dark Energy. No one on this planet knows what that is, which indicates just how far we still have to go to understand the cosmos. (Of course there are plenty of people who are sure that they understand it all, because their patriarchal god, they say, talks to them directly. This deity’s central message seems to be to hate gays, women, the poor, liberals and many of their other fellow human beings.) Buddhists may be right in saying that we are not equipped to fully understand the cosmos and shouldn’t waste time obsessing about it. We have evolved to have large brains and reasoning power, which (presumably) are to be used to increase our scientific understanding of what life is -- and to enable us to be reasonable and compassionate in our behavior to each other. ■

Many things

The Gay Alliance provides Advocacy, Education and Community for LGBT and Straight Ally individuals and we and all the volunteer committees from Rochester Pride just finished our largest Community event of the year with the 11 days of Pride. As with all wonderful events, part of the thrill is the experience and the other part is reliving it. Check out Pride memories via the Gay Alliance’s Youtube channel (https://www.youtube.com/ user/GayAlliance), where Rochester Pride’s Flag Raising, Mixer, Parade, Festival and Picnic all have separate and extraordinarily videos that were created by the incomparable Ove Overmyer After such a series of events, one of the first orders of business is to reflect on what worked well, what didn’t, how could it be done better, etc., which the staff did within 36 hours of our last event. We take this reflection seriously, as the staff’s perspective is a critical voice when the entire Rochester Pride team meets in early August to discuss 2012 Pride. In addition to the YNN media on the Rainbow Flag unfurling at Rochester City Hall, the final Pride weekend received solid media attention, such as inclusion in “10 Things to do this Weekend in Rochester” and a Pride Picnic article in the Democrat and Chronicle. Those latter mentions are important acknowledgements from Rochester’s larg-

Name Address City/State/Zip

GARD

Phone

E-mail

r ster p

The Empty Closet • Youth Program • Rochester Pride Education Program & Speakers Bureau Library and Archives Gay Alliance Resource Directory Shoulders to Stand On • Rainbow SAGE • SafeZone The Gay Alliance plays a central role in advocating for the fair and equal treatment of all people, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. www.GayAlliance.org

Reflections on Pride

est mainstream newspaper. And as the events of 2012 Pride become more distant memories, we, the staff of the Gay Alliance, remain extraordinarily grateful for the hours upon hours of planning and work by the Pride Committees and the 250+ volunteers that made Pride come alive. An Agency shout out to Susan Jordan, Editor of The Empty Closet and Jim Anderson, Graphic Designer, for their herculean efforts with the Pride Guide, working extra hours, stretching to a one-time super hero deadline to make the Guide as relevant and up to date as possible prior to printing. Lastly, Pride wouldn’t be possible without our Sponsors, Vendors, Community Partners and Participants. Thank you all so very much! As planning continues for the Youth Out Loud Out Proud Summer Program (Aug. 20-24) and the fall Youth Program, one of the most important components is Youth volunteers. Kelly Clark, Director of Intergenerational Programs, has applications available. The first round of applications ended on 7/31/12, but if you’re interested in volunteering with Youth, please do complete an application for the next round of interviews. The Rainbow SAGE Summer Picnic is scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 26. Please see the August calendar in this issue and the website and the Rainbow SAGE newsletter for further details. Most folks think of Jeanne Gainsburg, our Outreach Coordinator, for her role (especially during Pride season) as “Goddess of Volunteers”. However, Jeanne also schedules our Outreach and Professional Education programs. As the fall season begins, watch the website for updated programs and consider approaching your employers to have LGBT Professional Education programs. Lastly, congratulations to Lesbians of Rochester & Allies (L-O-R-A) for their First Annual Womyn’s Festival in June. Almost 500 Womyn and friends gathered at Ellison Park for friendship, fun and music. Awesome job! ■

Membership levels: ❏ $30-99 Advocate ❏ $100-999 Champion ❏ $1,000-4,999 Triangle Club ❏ $5,000+ Stonewall ❏ Enclosed is my check in the amount of _________ (check #______) Please charge my credit card in the amount of: __________ To: ❏ American Express, ❏ Discover, ❏ MasterCard, ❏ Visa Credit card # _____________________________ Exp. Date: _______ ❏ I would be proud to have my donation publicly acknowledged. ❏ Please provide me Rainbow SAGE Program (age 50+) News Benefits include: a subscription to The Empty Closet mailed to home or work, plus privileges at each level. Phone: 585 244-8640 or mail to: Gay Alliance, 875 E. Main Street, Suite 500, Rochester, New York 14605. Home delivery of the Empty Closet is free with your annual membership in the Gay Alliance. 8/12

for Many people

The Empty Closet is published by the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley 875 E. Main Street, Suite 500 Rochester, New York 14605 © 2012, All rights reserved. Editor-in-Chief: Susan Jordan Staff Reporter: Ove Overmyer Graphic Design: Jim Anderson Advertising policy: The Empty Closet does not print advertisements that contain nude drawings or photographs, nor does it print advertising that states that the person pictured in the ad is for sale, or that you will “get” that particular person if you patronize the establishment advertised. Advertisements that are explicitly racist, sexist, ageist, ableist or homophobic will be refused; advertisements from organizations that are sexist, racist, ageist, ableist or anti-gay will also be refused. All political advertisements must contain information about who placed them and a method of contact. Additionally, The Empty Closet does not print negative or “attack” advertisements, whether they relate to a product or politics and no matter in whose interest the ad is being produced. A negative advertisement is defined as one that focuses upon a rival product, or in the political area, a rival election candidate or party, in order to point out supposed flaws and to persuade the public not to buy it (or vote for him or her). The Empty Closet maintains, within legal boundaries, neutrality regarding products, political candidates and parties. However, “attack” ads that fail to provide undisputable evidence that the information in the ad is true do not further in any way the objectives and policies of the Gay Alliance or The Empty Closet, including the primary tenet that The Empty Closet’s purpose is to inform the Rochester gay community and to provide an impartial forum for ideas. Submissions: For publication, submit news items, ads, photos, letters, stories, poetry, ads, photographs or art by mail or in person to The Empty Closet office by the 15th of the month. Design services for non-camera ready ads are available for a fee. (www.emptycloset@ gagv.us) Publication Information: The Empty Closet is published 11 times a year (December and January combined) by The Empty Closet Press for the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley, Inc. Approximately 5000 copies of each issue are distributed during the first week of the month, some by mail in a plain sealed envelope. The publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles is not an indication of the sexual or affectional orientation of that person or the members of that organization. For further information, please write to The Empty Closet, 875 E. Main St., Rochester NY. 14605, call (585) 244-9030 or e-mail emptycloset@gagv.us. The Empty Closet is the official publication of the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley, Inc., as stated in the bylaws of that organization. Its purpose is to inform the Rochester gay community about local and national gay-related news and events; to provide a forum for ideas and creative work from the local gay community; to help promote leadership within the community, and to be a part of a national network of lesbian and gay publications that exchange ideas and seek to educate. Part of our purpose is to maintain a middle position with respect to the entire community. We must be careful to present all viewpoints in a way that takes into consideration the views of all – women, men, people of color, young and old, and those from various walks of life. The opinions of columnists, editorial writers and other contributing writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the collective attitude of the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley or The Empty Closet. The Empty Closet shall not be liable for any loss or expense that results from the publication (whether correctly or incorrectly) or omission of an ad. In the event of non-payment, your account may be assigned to a collection agency or an attorney, and will be liable for the charges paid by us to such collection agency or attorney. Letters to the editor: The opinions of columnists, editorial writers and other contributing writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the collective attitude of the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley or The Empty Closet. We will print letters at the editor’s discretion and on a space available basis. Only one letter by the same writer in a six-month period is allowed. We will not print personal attacks on individuals, nor will we be a forum for ongoing disputes between individuals. We reserve the right to edit for space and clarity. We will print anonymous letters if the name and phone number are provided to the Editor; confidentiality will be respected. Submissions are due by the 15th of the month at: The Empty Closet, 875 E. Main Street, Suite 500, Rochester, NY 14605; e-mail: emptycloset@gagv.us. The online edition of EC is available at www. gayalliance.org.

AUGUST 2012 • number 459 • gay alliance of the genesee valley • the empty closet

NewsFronts Local and State

SPLC demands that hate group cease using gay wedding photo By Susan Jordan The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) sent a letter on July 11 on behalf of a gay couple, Brian Edwards and Tom Privitere, and photographer Kristina Hill, demanding that Public Advocate of the United States and its president Eugene Delgaudio stop using the couple’s personal wedding photo in its vicious anti-gay propaganda. Delgaudio and Public Advocate, a group identified as a hate group by the SPLC, used the couple’s personal engagement photo without permission, and altered the image to include antigay propaganda to attack a Colorado senator, Jean White, who supported Colorado’s civil union legislation. White, a Republican, lost in the primary. “Delgaudio’s use of Brian and Tom’s personal photo is morally reprehensible,” said Christine P. Sun, deputy legal director for the SPLC. “For years, Delgaudio and Public Advocate have led a crusade against lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. This latest attack is the most vicious yet and should serve as a warning that your personal photos are not safe from anyone willing to stoop to the vilest level of harassment.” The SPLC’s letter warns that it is investigating the unauthorized use of the copyrighted photo and demands that Delgaudio, Public Advocate and anyone acting on their behalf immediately stop using the photo. The letter asks Delgaudio to confirm within 10 days that he and Public Advocate have stopped using the photo. The photo was taken to memorialize the couple’s engagement. They shared the photo with family and friends through Edwards’ blog, along with photos of the couple’s wedding ceremony. Many of the couple’s friends and family could not attend their wedding and sharing their photos online was a way to let others participate in their celebration. “This photo represented our love and commitment and the many challenges we have overcome in order to share our lives together,” Edwards said. “When

I first saw how our photo had been publicly destroyed and used against gay and lesbian families, I was shocked, heartbroken, and livid. I don’t want this to happen to another gay or lesbian couple.” The original photo, taken by Kristina Hill of Kristina Hill Photography, depicted the couple with a New York City skyline as the backdrop. The image was misappropriated by Delgaudio, who super-imposed the couple onto a snowy, tree-filled background to imply the photo was taken in Colorado close to White’s former district. Bold words, on a red background, were also added: “State Senator Jean White’s idea of ‘Family Values?’” “When I took this photo, I was capturing the love that Brian and Tom share,” said Kristina Hill of Kristina Hill Photography. “When I saw how my image was used, I was sad for Brian and Tom. I was angry that someone would take my work, distort it and use it to reflect the opposite of what it was meant to express.” Neither the couple, nor Hill, knew about the misappropriation until a friend of the couple informed them about the misappropriated photo. “I was shocked to see our engagement photo with a big red slash across it. Knowing our image had been used to spread lies, hate, and fear, contradicts the original meaning of the picture,” Privitere said. “It was used to attack what Brian and I hold dear – our lives together, our family, and marriage equality.” This isn’t the first time Public Advocate has attacked the LGBT community, and earlier this year, the SPLC listed Public Advocate as a hate group for spreading misinformation about LGBT people. The letter notes that Public Advocate “has spread lies and vitriol about LGBT people to raise funds, impede progress toward greater equality and to deny LGBT people basic dignity and respect.” The letter notes other anti-gay activities by the group, including provoking readers through a fundraising letter to “imagine a world where the police allow homosexual adults to rape young boys in the streets”; comparing marriage equality to bestiality through production of a

“Man-Donkey Mock Wedding Ceremony”; defamation of gay people as pedophiles and rapists to be feared -- for instance, permitting gay men to be Boy Scout leaders, Public Advocate said, is “the same as being an accessory to the rape of hundreds of boys”; and mischaracterizing national legislation to address an epidemic of anti-LGBT harassment at schools as “requir[ing] schools to teach appalling homosexual acts... force private and even religious schools to teach a pro-homosexual agenda... ram through their entire perverted vision for a homosexual America.... create a new America based on sexual promiscuity.” A copy of the demand letter can be viewed at www.splcenter.org. Tom Privitere is the son of Rochester’s Tom Privitere. Tom Sr. told The Empty Closet, “Fortunately for our family, my son and his husband are well grounded in their lives, in their careers and in the unwavering support of their friends and loved ones. That being said, use of their photo in a homophobic attack ad was appalling and hurtful to all of us. As importantly as violating my sons’ rights, we were concerned with ‘What if this were a photo of two men who were NOT out at work, or to their families? Who thought this was a private moment?’ The potential for harm and consequences to those less fortunate than Tom and Brian, are part of why our family is so passionate about fighting this.”

NYC homeless youth funding is safe; plans begin for Bea Arthur Residence The New York City Council voted in late June to retain Runaway and Homeless Youth Services funding at 2011 levels -contrary to Mayor Bloomberg’s budget released in early May, which would have cut RHYS funding by $7 million and eliminated 160 out of 250 existing youth shelter beds in the city. Carl Siciliano, executive director of the Ali Forney Center (AFC), responded on June 26, “I am grateful to the New York City Council for preventing the catastrophic cuts to youth shelter beds proposed by the Mayor. But maintaining 250 beds for 3,800 homeless youths is not a victory, especially for the youth whose lives are endangered as they suffer in the streets without access to shelter. I will continue to work to leverage the voices of the LGBT community, and other impacted communities, to vigorously demand that New York City adopt a plan to provide shelter to every homeless youth.” The need for youth shelter beds continues to grow; in 2011 alone, the waiting list for AFC’s 77 shelter beds grew to 199 youths, an increase of 40 percent over the prior year. In total, the city only funds 250 shelter beds, for a population of 3,800 homeless youth. In response to this crisis, the Ali Forney Center and a number of allied organizations have launched the Campaign for Youth Shelter. This initiative calls on New York City and State to back an additional $3 million in annual funding, set

aside to create 100 new shelter beds every year until no youth shelter has a waiting list. The Campaign is an effort to leverage the voices of the LGBT community to advocate for homeless youth in light of the fact that LGBT youth make up 40 percent of the homeless youth population in NYC (according to a 2008 survey by the Empire State Coalition), and is organized by providers and advocates representing the Ali Forney Center, Green Chimneys, Empire State Pride Agenda, Queer Rising, Lambda Independent Democrats of Brooklyn, Brooklyn Community Pride Center, Stonewall Democratic Cub of NY, and Shelter of Peace. In June of 2010, the Bloomberg Administration released a report on homeless LGBT youth, which recognized that LGBT youths without shelter faced significant risk of violent assault, HIV infection and suicide. The report called for the creation of 100 additional shelter beds for LGBT youths. About Ali Forney Center Ali Forney Center (AFC) was started in June of 2002 in response to the lack of safe shelter for LGBT youth in New York City. The Center is committed to providing these young people with safe, dignified, nurturing environments where their needs can be met, and where they can begin to put their lives back together. AFC is dedicated to promoting awareness of the plight of homeless LGBT youth in the United States with the goal of generating responses on local and national levels from government funders, foundations, and the LGBT community. For more information, go to: www.aliforneycenter.org. Bea Arthur wanted to help youth The Ali Forney Center, in partnership with the Cooper Square Committee, announced July 9 that the City Council has designated $3 million in funding to be combined with an additional $300K designated by Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer to help renovate 222 East 13th Street in Manhattan’s East Village neighborhood. The future Bea Arthur Residence for Homeless LGBT Youth will be an approximately 18-bed residential supportive housing facility, to be named in honor of the late actress Bea Arthur, who was an advocate and supporter of the Ali Forney Center and its mission. The local Community Board #3 unanimously recommended that the site be transferred to the Ali Forney Center and Cooper Square Committee for this use. The property is currently owned by the New York City

3 Department of Housing and Preservation and Development (HPD), which will soon begin the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP) that must be completed in order to transfer the city-owned land to Ali Forney and the Cooper Square Committee before renovations can begin. “Homeless LGBT youth, most of whom have been cast out of their homes, have faced the worst kind of cruelty and rejection,” said Carl Siciliano, executive director of the Ali Forney Center. “I am overwhelmed with gratitude that they are now being shown such kindness by this community and its leaders. I am deeply grateful to Council Speaker Christine Quinn, our local Councilmember Rosie Mendez, Finance Chair Domenic Recchia, the entire Manhattan Delegation, and Borough President Scott Stringer for securing the funding for the renovation, and to HPD and Community Board 3 for their support. And of course I thank Bea Arthur for being such a caring friend to our youth.” In November of 2005, Bea Arthur flew to New York City from her home in Los Angeles in order to give a special benefit performance of her one-woman show, which raised over $40,000 for the Ali Forney Center. In an interview Bea explained her decision. She said, “These kids at the Ali Forney Center are literally dumped by their families because of the fact that they are lesbian, gay, or transgender -- this organization really is saving lives.” Bea continued to offer her support, both as a donor and as an advocate. In one of her very last interviews, published in the New York Blade in May 2008, Bea spoke with pride of having done the benefit for AFC, and indicated that she would do anything to help gay kids disowned by their parents. After her death in 2009, upon learning that she had left $300,000 to AFC in her will, AFC announced it planned to acquire a residential building for its clients to be named in Bea Arthur’s honor.

Pride Agenda endorses Harry Bronson for NYS Assembly The Empire State Pride Agenda has released round one of its endorsements for the November General Election: Matthew Titone (D) – 61st Assembly District (Staten Island) and Harry Bronson (D) – 138th Assembly District (Rochester/Monroe County). (State/Local continues page 12)

Thank You Donors We remain so grateful for all donations made to The Gay Alliance and the overwhelming support for the Agency through Rochester Pride. We thank the friends of Emily Jones & Deborah Hughes, who donated to the Gay Alliance in honor of their Wedding and the friends that donated in honor of Jeffrey Clark & David Dolan. Lastly we acknowledge and are humbled by the kindness of donations made in memory of Vincent DiSchino and in memory of Mikey Hall.

the empty closet • the gay alliance of the genesee valley • number 459 • AUGUST 2012

NewsFronts national and international FDA approves first home use HIV test kit The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on July 3 approved the OraQuick In-Home HIV Test, the first over-thecounter, self-administered HIV test kit to detect the presence of antibodies to human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) and type 2 (HIV-2). The OraQuick In-Home HIV Test is designed to allow individuals to collect an oral fluid sample by swabbing the upper and lower gums inside of their mouths, then place that sample into a developer vial, and obtain test results within 20 to 40 minutes. A positive result with this test does not mean that an individual is definitely infected with HIV, but rather that additional testing should be done in a medical setting to confirm the test result. Similarly, a negative test result does not mean that an individual is definitely not infected with HIV, particularly when exposure may have been within the previous three months. The test has the potential to identify large numbers of previously undiagnosed HIV infections, especially if used by those unlikely to use standard screening methods. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 1.2 million people in the United States are living with HIV infection. About one in five are not aware they are infected. There are about 50,000 new HIV infections every year. Many of these new infections are transmitted from people who are unaware of their HIV status. “Knowing your status is an important factor in the effort to prevent the spread of HIV,” said Karen Midthun, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. “The availability of a home-use HIV test kit provides another option for individuals to get tested so that they can seek medical care, if appropriate.” Clinical studies for self-testing have shown that the OraQuick In-Home HIV Test has an expected performance of 92 percent for test sensitivity, the percentage of results that will be positive when HIV is present. This means that one false negative result would be expected out of every 12 test results in HIV-infected individuals. Clinical studies also have shown that the OraQuick In-Home HIV Test has an expected performance of 99.98 percent for test specificity, the percentage of results that will be negative when HIV is not present. This means that one false positive would be expected out of every 5,000 test

results in uninfected individuals. OraSure Technologies, the manufacturer of the OraQuick In-Home HIV Test, will have a consumer support center that is available via phone and will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The center will be operational and available to educate users with information about HIV/AIDS, the proper method for administering the test and guidance on what to do once results have been obtained once the manufacturer makes the product available for sale to the public. Information about the consumer support center and contact information is included in the test kit. OraSure Technologies, Inc. is headquartered in Bethlehem, Pa. A version of this test for use by trained technicians in clinical settings was approved in 2004.

Argentina’s president demands transgender equality, not tolerance Argentine President Cristina Kirchner made a strong statement on July 3 in favor of transgender and LBG equality at an event marking the new right of transgender citizens to officially change their gender on official documents without proving they had undergone surgery. “Today is a day of tremendous reparation,” she said. “Today we do not shout for liberation but instead we shout for equality, which is just as important as freedom. I do not want to use a word that bothers me greatly: Tolerance. No. I do not believe in ‘tolerance’. To tolerate is to say I’ll allow you to be because I have no other choice. I want to talk about equality and I want to talk about all of you who will now have the same rights I have enjoyed from the moment I was born and the rights that so many millions of Argentinians have enjoyed from the moment they were born. This is the society we want.” Blabbeando.com author Andres Duque says the new law, which was passed unanimously by the legislature, makes Argentina the world’s most progressive nation for transgender rights. Argentina legalized same-sex marriage in 2010 and it is now quite arguable that the former rightwing dictatorship is the world’s most progressive nation for LGBT rights overall.

Protestors defy St. Petersburg gay ban, all are arrested On July 7 a handful of brave activists defied the St. Petersburg ban on public

pro-gay demonstrations and almost all of them were arrested. Three rally organizers were arrested July 7 at a park in Russia’s second city, and five others were detained at a later rally attempt near the landmark Smolny complex, Russian news agencies reported. Only six people showed up for the second rally, and the three arrested at the first attempt were the only participants. Although homosexuality was decriminalized after the fall of the Soviet Union, hatred of gays remains strong in Russia and Ukraine. Some rally attempts provoke violence by opponents, usually a coalition of neo-Nazi skinheads and ultra–conservative Orthodox priests. St. Petersburg passed a law in February calling for fines of up to 500,000 rubles ($15,000) for spreading “homosexual propaganda.”

Gay man’s murder pushes Chile president to sign hate crimes law A little more than three months after the death of Daniel Zamudio, who was beaten, stabbed, burned, and branded with a swastika by a gang of neo-Nazis in March and died days later in a hospital, Chile’s President Sebastian Pinera signed a hate crimes bill into law which had languished in the country’s legislature for seven years, the AP reports: “Without a doubt, Daniel’s death was painful but it was not in vain,” Pinera said at a press conference joined by Zamudio’s parents. “His passing not only unified wills to finally approve this anti-discrimination law but it also helped us examine our conscience and ask ourselves: have we ever discriminated against someone? ... After his death we’ll think twice, thrice or four times before we fall prey to that behavior.” Four suspects, some with criminal records for attacks on homosexuals, have been jailed in Zamudio’s killing. Prosecutors are seeking murder charges. Said Gay Liberation and Integration Movement President Rolando Jimenez to the AP: “This law is a giant leap toward creating tools that can prevent and punish discrimination. There’s still a lot to be done and we need the institutions to enforce it.” Read more: http://www.towleroad. com/2012/07/chilean-president-signshate-crime-bill-into-law-three-monthsafter-gay-mans-brutal-death-at-hands-o. html#ixzz20VfwJcyg

General Mills wins approval for pro gay stand on marriage A petition in support of Minnesotabased Fortune 500 Company General Mills by the Human Rights Campaign has gotten nearly five times more signatures than an anti-equality petition launched by the National Organization for Marriage (NOM).

HRC launched the petition the last week in June, after General Mills CEO Ken Powell announced the company opposed the state’s proposed constitutional amendment, which seeks to ban marriage equality for committed gay and lesbian couples. To date, more than 80,000 people have signed HRC’s petition, as well as another petition by the Minnesotans United campaign supporting the cereal giant. In contrast, the anti-equality National Organization for Marriage (NOM) launched a petition denouncing General Mills. Only 17,000 people have signed on – nearly five times fewer than HRC’s and MN United’s petitions. “General Mills took a bold stand in support of equality for all Minnesota families and it’s paying off,” said HRC Workplace Project Director Kathryn Friedman. “With five times the number of signatures, it’s clear that American consumers are sending a strong message that equality is good for business.”

FAQ guidance set to help LGBT older adults The Administration on Aging (AoA) on July 10 announced that it would release important new FAQ guidance that empowers AoA-funded aging providers to consider LGBT older adults as a population of “greatest social need,” paving the way for increased services that can significantly improve their health and wellbeing. The Human Rights Campaign and Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders (SAGE) partnered to urge AoA to provide this guidance. “SAGE applauds this critically important step taken by the Administration on Aging to recognize that LGBT older people have acute needs and to ensure that services are available to meet those needs,” said Michael Adams, Executive Director of SAGE. “We look forward to working with the Administration on Aging to continue to improve the availability of appropriate services to LGBT elders across the country.” “This step brings much-needed attention to the unique needs of LGBT older adults, and the urgent actions we must all take to preserve their dignity,” said HRC President Chad Griffin. “AoA’s actions today are a crucial step toward ensuring that this generation has equal access to the services and resources that they deserve. HRC applauds AoA for its leadership, and we will look forward to working with them through implementation.” The FAQ guidance clarifies that the current definition of “greatest social need” in the Older Americans Act — the country’s leading vehicle for funding and delivering services to older people nationwide — allows communities to identify populations in their service area that experience isolation for cultural, social or geographic reasons. The guidance provides specific examples of these populations, including increased need based on sexual orientation

AUGUST 2012 • number 459 • gay alliance of the genesee valley • the empty closet and gender identity. LGBT older adults are at an increased risk for social isolation, experience poor health and health access, and face higher poverty rates than other seniors. Despite this increased need, this group is less likely to seek federal assistance and healthcare due to actual and perceived discrimination. This FAQ guidance allows the aging networks that serve LGBT older adults and receive AoA funding to consider this vulnerable population as one with a “greatest social need.” This designation will encourage Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) to include LGBT older adults when prioritizing funding, engaging in outreach, evaluating unmet needs and collecting data. This announcement is the latest action taken by the AoA to address LGBT elders’ unique needs. In January 2010, SAGE received a historic grant from the Administration on Aging to establish the National Resource Center on LGBT Aging (lgbtagingcenter.org), the country’s only technical assistance resource center aimed at improving the quality of services and supports offered to LGBT older adults. With a wealth of multimedia resources for aging providers, the National Resource Center will be a key resource for AAAs as they implement the guidance.

Leading Hispanic groups endorse LGBT acceptance campaign Twenty-one of the nation’s leading Hispanic organizations announced on July 9 their endorsement of a first-ofits kind, comprehensive public-education campaign called Familia es Familia, aimed at strengthening Latino voices to build support within the Latino community for acceptance of LGBT family members. Public opinion polls show that Latinos really do lead the way when it comes to attitudes toward LGBT people. Several recent studies by the Pew Hispanic Center, Bendixen & Amandi International, 2012 Opportunity Agenda and SSRS found strong support among Hispanics for a number of LGBT issues. Familia es Familia will be a bilingual campaign providing resources and information that are culturally appropriate to empower voices within and from Latino families and communities. In addition, the campaign will provide training, technical assistance, and support to the 21 Hispanic organizations and will spearhead a national effort to educate the public through a range of viral components including an interactive bilingual website rich with videos, resources, and publications; social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube; promoting stories and voices in the media and an organizing campaign to engage the community through mobile devices. “The polling shows that many in the Latino community already understand that there is one struggle for equality, a struggle that benefits from appreciat-

ing common mission. Familia es Familia is a campaign that will help to deepen the understanding that a discriminatory deprivation of rights on any basis is a cause of concern for all. Together, we can overcome all of the irrational biases that adversely affect any member of the Latino community,” said Thomas A. Saenz, President and General Counsel, MALDEF. “NCLR is deeply committed to the civil rights of all Americans, including our friends and family in the LGBT community. We are very proud that this groundbreaking public education campaign, ‘Familia es Familia’, is being launched at our annual conference this year in Las Vegas,” said Janet Murguia, President and CEO, NCLR. Brent Wilkes, Executive Director of LULAC, the nation’s oldest Latino civil rights organization, said, “Since its inception, LULAC has fought for the equality of minorities. All individuals regardless of their race, ethnicity, country of origin or sexual orientation, deserve equal rights.” “A growing majority of Latinos in this country knows that every gay or lesbian person is part of someone’s family – a son or daughter, a brother or sister, a loved one – and the more conversations we have, family member to family member, the more support for the freedom to marry grows,” said Evan Wolfson, founder and president of Freedom to Marry. “Latino gay couples seek the freedom to marry to affirm and strengthen their love, their commitment, and their ability to take care of each other and their families; government should not be putting barriers in their way. Freedom to Marry is proud to be supporting the Familia es Familia campaign to lift up Hispanic voices and stories as together we make the case for ending the exclusion from marriage.” Freedom to Marry provided the seed funding and serves as fiscal sponsor for Familia es Familia. The Gill Foundation has also committed to providing additional resources. “Given the breadth and depth of this first-of-its-kind campaign, this effort is so vital for our community, and we hope that it will help to change the dialogue and hearts and minds about our Latino LGBT family and community members,” said Ingrid Duran, Laura Esquivel and Catherine Pino, the D&P Creative Strategies team, the lead firm working with Freedom to Marry to create and manage the campaign. For more information, visit www. familiaesfamilia.org. Founding Partners Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI); Cuban American National Council; Dolores Huerta Foundation; Hispanic Federation; Hispanic National Bar Association; Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA); LatinoJustice PRLDEF; League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC); MANA - A National Latina Organization; Mexican American Legal Defense & Educational Fund (MALDEF); National Association of Hispanic in Publications;

National Council of La Raza (NCLR); National Hispanic Council on Aging; National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts; National Hispanic Media Coalition; National Hispanic Medical Association; National Puerto Rican Coalition; SER Jobs for Progress; Southwest Voter Registration Education Project; US Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; US Hispanic Leadership Institute.

Julian Bond backs Md. marriage equality video Marylanders for Marriage Equality released a web ad on July 10 profiling African-American supporters of same-sex marriage. Each explains why he or she is voting to uphold the state’s law in November and encourages others to do so. Dr. Julian Bond, chairman emeritus of the NAACP, previewed the video and issued this statement: “The new video by Marylanders for Marriage Equality shows us what the same-sex marriage debate is really about: our gay and lesbian family members, neighbors, friends, co-workers – and those who support them. It’s this human side we cannot forget about as the campaign gets underway. “Marylanders will be casting a vote on the law – not on their faith. Equality under the law means equality for all, not just some. If we’re all going to be equal in America, being able to marry the person we love and raise a family is an opportunity we all should have. “What really pains me is that opponents of same-sex marriage have admitted their strategy is to divide gays and blacks. This harms our culture and such divisive tactics should not be tolerated. We must bring people together around our shared values of family and fairness, which this video illustrates.” Bond is referring to the now unsealed court documents written by the anti-gay National Organization for Marriage, a primary funder of the Maryland Marriage Alliance (most recently its signature petition drive), in which the group outlined its strategy to stop same-sex marriage: “The strategic goal… is to drive a wedge between gays and blacks — two key Democratic constituencies. Find, equip, energize and connect African American spokespeople for marriage; develop a media campaign around their objections to gay marriage as a civil right; provoke the gay marriage base into responding by denouncing these spokesmen and women as bigots….”

New HRC leader Chad Griffin hails from Hope, Arkansas Chad Griffin is the first southerner to head up Human Rights Campaign, the Washington-based LGBT activist group. And according to AP reporter Jeannie Nuss’ profile on Griffin and his current work, growing up in Arkansas and its reli-

5 gious culture had a deep impact on the new HRC president. Arkansas helped shape Griffin into the leader he is today: a man uniquely qualified to fight a civil rights battle that will be difficult, even after President Barack Obama came out in support of same-sex marriage this year. As the first Southerner to head the Washington-based group, Griffin has a knack for translating the fight for gay rights into language familiar to people in the Bible Belt. He sometimes borrows phrases from the pulpit — brothers and sisters, God’s children — to advocate equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. “This is nothing more than the golden rule,” Griffin told community leaders during his visit last month. “Treat others as you wish to be treated.” The article goes on to mention that Griffin was born in a town called Hope, which boasts former President Bill Clinton and former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee as native sons, and that Griffin’s work today is in large part influenced by the racial divides that exist in the state. “If you remember those famous photos from the ‘60s and the civil rights movement, you didn’t only see African-Americans marching down the street,” Griffin told Nuss. “You saw them marching arm in arm with their white brothers and sisters.” Read more: http://www.towleroad. com/#ixzz1zrvKrgQZ

Episcopal Church moves forward on LGBT rights, except for “marriage” The Episcopal Church has approved a new liturgy for blessing same-sex unions, two proposals adding gender identity and expression to the Church’s nondiscrimination canons for ordained ministry and in the “life, worship, and governance of the Church,” and a resolution supporting legislation for equal immigration rights for same-sex couples. The votes took place at the denomination’s General Convention in Indianapolis in July. While the passage signifies a step in the right direction, the Canons of the Church still use the homophobic definition of “marriage” as “between a man and a woman”. “This is a great day for the Episcopal Church and people of faith everywhere,” said Rev. MacArthur Flournoy, deputy director of the Human Rights Campaign’s Religion and Faith Program. “The Church reaffirmed to LGBT Episcopalians they are also God’s children and they deserve to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion.” These votes were a long time in the making. Since the 1960s, many clergy have provided private blessings to gay and lesbian couples, but the Church had no official practice. Following the 2009 General Convention, the Church said bishops may provide “generous pastoral response” (Newsfronts continue page 13)

the empty closet • the gay alliance of the genesee valley • number 459 • AUGUST 2012

Interview

Harry Bronson By Susan Jordan New York State Assembly member Harry Bronson (D-Rochester/Chili/ Rush/Riga/Wheatland) feels that the past two years have been productive ones in Albany, with several significant advances for LGBT civil rights, as well as measures which will help all New Yorkers. Bronson said, “Clearly, the session goes in two-year cycles. It’s been a very, very successful two-year cycle. In 2011, the top of the list is of course passage of Marriage Equality, which is so important to us. “As an Assembly member, it was with great joy that I co-sponsored marriage equality, helped move it through the legislative process and finally cast my vote for marriage equality -- all this in my very first term of office. I am privileged to have been part of this movement and also to have attended the marriage equality bill signing with Governor Cuomo -- a night I will never forget. That night, the Governor honored me by presenting to me one of the pens which he used to sign the bill into law and make history. With the stroke of a pen our lives changed forever. “Over the past year since that night I have attended many weddings where loving, committed couples have declared their love for each other, but now under the authority of New York State. Wanting to share that historical moment with the community, the ‘marriage equality pen’ has been used at a number of these weddings for the signing of the couples’ wedding licenses. In a small way it allows all of us not only to celebrate the significance of what we were a part of, but also to remem-

ber the struggle so we will forever be vigilant to protect what we have gained.” Continuing with his session highlights, Bronson said, “Also, I can list ethics reform; a closing a $10 billion budget deficit; reducing taxes for the first time in 13 years. The good news is because we were committed to increasing spending for education and health care, part of the way we achieved that in December was restructuring the income tax code, reducing taxes for lower and middle-income people to the lowest level in 58 years. That was 2011. “This year we continued and built on the success of government through collaboration between the Assembly, the Senate and the governor – something we haven’t seen since a decade ago. It’s been all gridlock.” Bronson helped to pass a law expanding the DNA database. He said, “New York took a lead in the country by expanding the database to include most crime convictions. We did that with two objectives: to ensure that those convicted and guilty of crimes are held accountable, and just as important, that those not guilty and wrongly charged will be exonerated.” He continued, “We instituted the I-STOP, which is about creating a database of prescription drugs that doctors will refer to in order to reduce prescription drug abuse and sale on the black market.” The Dignity for All Students Act became law on July 1. Another law aimed at reducing bullying, which will help LGBTQ youth and prevent youth suicides, is the cyberbullying measure passed on June 18. “This is important to our community,” Bronson said, “and will impact the bullying of young people

on the internet by ensuring a positive approach to young people facing bullying. “In the Assembly,” he said, “we were successful in passing GENDA again. I think we can learn from the Marriage Equality model – education first, bringing the general public along and building a coalition including all aspects of our society – businesses, local governments, clergy. Interestingly enough, one of the huge successes in passing marriage equality is taking the New York model to other states, where activists are trying to enact marriage equality.” GENDA would provide basic antidiscrimination protections to transgender and gender variant New Yorkers. It has not passed in the Republican-dominated Senate. Bronson added, “I think, like marriage equality, passing GENDA will be a struggle, but one we will ultimately be successful in. It’s anyone’s guess when that will happen. I am a co-sponsor in the Assembly, which has been very supportive. We need to use the same strategy – get supporters from all segments of society so they can convince the Senate to pass GENDA. “Through education and visibility we can mobilize businesses and local governments. We can use Rochester as an example. We have an anti-discrimination ordinance that includes transgender, thanks to Tim Mains, and it has been successful in Rochester. The recent RPD policy change on transgender announced by Chief Sheppard is a positive change. So once again Rochester is a leader in civil rights for the LGBT community. “Another LGBT issue that was huge this year,” Bronson said, “was maintaining funding for the LGBT Health and Human Services Network at $5.26 million, which is extremely impressive given the economic situation. I took a leadership role working with the Empire State Pride Agenda. We increased the funding for runaway and homeless youth up to $2.45 million. We not only avoided a huge cut,

but we got a slight increase in a very difficult economic year.” In July, anti-gay conservatives tried for the fourth time to repeal marriage equality, claiming they were concerned about “closed door meetings” by Democrats, and other technicalities, masking their real and obvious motive. On July 6 a panel of the New York Appellate Division unanimously rejected the conservative challenge. New York State does not have a referendum system, unlike California, where marriage equality was overturned through a referendum (“Prop 8”) funded by hate groups across the country. But although marriage equality in New York cannot be reversed in this manner, Harry Bronson warns, “I think we need to be vigilant, because there’s always a chance that a law could be repealed. We worked for decades to get marriage equality – we have to make sure we keep our guard up. We don’t have referendums or a procedure in place to challenge a repeal, so I’m convinced the law won’t be repealed, but still we need to be sure that the public continues to be supportive, that we keep our straight allies and keep our civil rights now that we have them.” Not all marriages, whether heterosexual or those of same sex couples, are free of abuse. Bronson noted, “Also this year, the first bill I sponsored was passed. It was on domestic violence, and created a procedure to help victims have fewer hurdles in the justice system, through protective orders. Magistrates can now issue orders of protection, and that’s important to us because, although a lot of people don’t think about it, in our LGBT domestic relationships, domestic violence does exist. “This year, what we did through the governor’s leadership – and I was a cosponsor – is make a complete overhaul of the court and police approach to domestic violence.” ■

AUGUST 2012 • number 459 • gay alliance of the genesee valley • the empty closet

Roche ster pride 2012

Photo: Ove Overmyer

lia n ce.

2012

Roch

er Prid e

t es

Members of the Rochester Women’s Community Chorus.

Photo: Ove Overmyer

Harry Bronson.

Jeannie Gainsburg (Electra) and Dontaee Williamson (Robin) at the Mixer.

Photo: jill frier

PRIDE POWER MIXER: Honorary Grand Marshal Tom Ferarrese and Grand Marshal Todd Plank were sashed at the Pride Power Mixer at the Holiday Inn Airport on July 13.

Photo: jill frier

Photo: Ove Overmyer

Emcee Matt Molloy.

Photo: mary lou smith

Photo: jill frier

Photo: Ove Overmyer

FLAG RAISING: At the Rainbow Flag raising on July 6, Deputy Mayor Leonard Redon said, “We stand with you.”

Photo: Ove Overmyer

Photo: jeff cougler

Carrie Vernon, Pride 2012 Committee Chair, at the Mixer.

Photo: Matt Ulakovic

DYKE PICNIC: There was a big turnout for the dYke Picnic on June 30 at Ellison Park. Many women were thrilled to learn that the event will return next year (as the Womyn’s Picnic).

sassy: Brigid Waterhouse and Dontaee at Super Sassy in the South Wedge on July 6.

AT JCC: Rev. Jim Mulcahy spoke at the “Beyond Gay” event hosted by the Gay Alliance on July 5.

the empty closet • the gay alliance of the genesee valley • number 459 • AUGUST 2012

Photo: garnetta ely

Roche ster pride 2012

Photo: garnetta ely

Photo: jill frier

Photo: jeff mills

Jason Robert Ballard, president of Self Made Men.

Photo: jeff mills

Photo: Manuel Pena

Photo: Ove Overmyer

PRIDE PARADE: Center for Disability Rights float: “Gotham City has PRIDE.”

Pam Polashenski and Jeanne Gainsburg.

Grand Marshal Todd Plank and Paul Brew.

Photo: garnetta ely

Rochester Gay Men’s Community Chorus won the Ruby Slipper award.

Miss Gay Pride, Tasha Brooks, and Mr. Gay Pride, Tonysio were crowned on June 10.

Photo: jeff mills

Photo: Ove Overmyer

Honorary Grand Marshal Tom Ferarrese.

Outlandish won the Rainbow Award.

Tilt won the Muther’s Favorite (Best of Show) award.

Photo: Ove Overmyer

Photo: jeff mills

Photo: melora miller

Kasha Davis greets her fans.

The Gay Alliance Youth Group marched as the Rainbow Justice League, led by Pride Queen, Lady Dee and King Taylor Made.

AUGUST 2012 • number 459 • gay alliance of the genesee valley • the empty closet

Photo: jeff mills

Roche ster pride 2012

Photo: garnetta ely

Photo: jeff mills

The MOCHA Center marching unit.

Paul Allen with the ImageOut contingent.

Photo: melora miller

Photo: Ove Overmyer

The Rochester Trans Group and other area groups marched together. WNY trans groups met here in April to begin a collaboration.

Photo: Ove Overmyer

Sue Cowell hits the road for Louise.

Pam Barres.

Photo: garnetta ely

Gerry Szymanski of the Library & Archives.

Photo: jeff mills

Photo: melora miller

Photo: jeff mills

Photo: garnetta ely

The Gay Alliance Library & Archives won the Community Award.

Rochester Rights Activists won the Stonewall award and reminded us of our history.

the the empty empty closet closet • the • the gay gay alliance alliance of of the the genesee genesee valley valley • number • number 459457 • AUGUST 2012 • JUNE 2012

Headliner Jessica Sutta.

Photo: Ove Overmyer

FESTIVAL: FuturPointe Dance Co. performs. Right: Liam Knighten.

Photo: Ove Overmyer

Roche ster pride 2012

Photo: jeff cougler

Photo: Ove Overmyer

A resident of Avenue Q at the festival.

Photo: Ove Overmyer

Photo: jeff cougler

A visitor from Buffalo Pride.

The winner of the picnic site decorating contest was the Flamingo Farmers. (see page 30)

Photo: jeff cougler

Second place winner Kate Sweeney with judges Thomas Warfield and Michael Gamilla.

Photo: gerry szymanski

PICNIC: The Pride Picnic took place in Genesee Valley Park on July 15. It has been going since the 1970s and is the oldest Pride event.

Dancing in the Roundhouse.

JUNE 2012 AUGUST 2012 • number • number 457459 • gay • gay alliance alliance of of the the genesee genesee valley valley • the • the empty empty closet closet

Kasha Davis in the Parade.

Photo: garnetta ely

Photo: jeff cougler

Roche ster pride 2012

Photo: melora miller

Photo: Ove Overmyer

Photo: jeff mills

Deborah Magone performed at the Pride Power Mixer on July 13.

Marriage Equality’s first anniversary.

Youth Group members in the parade.

Photo: Ove Overmyer

Todd Plank and City Council member Matt Haag at the Mixer.

Photo: Ove Overmyer

Photo: jeff mills

Rochester Rights Activists.

page one (Pride 2012 from page 1) The Parade award winners were Muther’s Favorite (Best of Show): Tilt; Stonewall Award: Rochester Rights Activists; Rainbow Award: Outlandish; Community: Gay Alliance Library & Archives and Ruby Slipper: Rochester Gay Men’s Chorus. Pride 2012 was a community-building experience and featured something for people of all ages and interests. The Gay Alliance event at the JCC on July 5 provided LGBT history and a global perspective, through films and a talk by Reverend Jim Mulcahy, who was interviewed in last month’s Empty Closet about the troubling situation in the Ukraine and much of Eastern Europe, where, as in many countries worldwide, gay activism is often illegal and may be repressed by brutal violence. Pride events over 11 days included parties, dances, films, theatre performances and readings, the trans open mic event at Equal=Grounds (see page 14), Family Day at the Museum and Science Center, and the Picnic on July 15. The Youth Pride Queen (Lady Dee) and Pride King (Taylor Made) were crowned at the youth dance and pageant at Tilt on July 9. The Pride Festival on July 14, after the Parade, drew several thousand people, who enthusiastically applauded the Big Wigs (Kasha Davis and Aggy Dune, emcees), Ambrosia Salad, Miss Deelicious, Samantha Vega, F’ya Colby-Valentino, DeeDee Dubois, Sasha Sashay, Poison Waters and the cast of Sickening Saturdays, Tasha Brooks, Anthony Vasconez, Ronnie Kroell, FuturPointe Dance, and two very talkative puppets from Geva’s Avenue Q. Jessica Sutta headlined the show and had everyone up and dancing. Pride 2012 Committee Chair Carrie Vernon said, “Wow, Rochester, you

the empty closet • the gay alliance of the genesee valley • number 459 • AUGUST 2012 made Pride 2012 another huge success! I had a blast with you all and hope you did too! We have Pride once a year, but I hope every day you celebrate who you are, because you make Rochester a great place to live and it’s my pleasure to be a part of this community! Happy Pride! And thanks.”

(Conservatives from page 1) they “allege that the Republican Conference essentially arranged for a close vote on the MEA by issuing four of its senators a ‘pass’ to support that legislation.” When the marriage bill was approved on the Senate floor, four Republicans joined 29 Democrats in the 33-29 majority. The court’s ruling went one step further, finding that even if the Open Meetings Law had been violated, that would not by itself justify invalidating the Marriage Equality Law. The OML gives the court the power, “in its discretion, upon good cause shown,” to declare that a violation justifies voiding legislation subsequently enacted. In this case, the court concluded, the plaintiffs failed to show “good cause.” Even if NYCR had proven violations of the OML, Fahey wrote, its suit did not contend they “were the catalyst for the passage of the MEA. In fact, the various news articles attached as exhibits to the verified complaint detail the intense lobbying of individual senators with respect to the MEA, and note that both proponents and opponents of the bill took a similar approach of targeting potential swing votes on the issue. There is no allegation that the lobbying of individual senators violated the OML and, given their failure to link the alleged OML violations to the enactment of the MEA, which was approved at a regular session of the Senate that was open to the public, we conclude that plaintiffs failed to show good cause why we should exercise our discretion to

nullify the MEA.” The court stated that “defendant New York State Senate did not violate the OML in enacting the MEA and that marriages performed thereunder are not invalid.” Governor Andrew Cuomo said, “The court’s decision affirms that in our state, there is marriage equality for all, and with this decision, New York continues to stand as a progressive leader for the nation.” Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, in a written release, said, “New Yorkers and all Americans should live in a country where they know they will be treated equally under the law and my office will continue to fight for their rights every day…. This is a great victory for marriage equality, and further protects the right of all New York couples to equal treatment under law. We are pleased that the court upheld the Marriage Equality Act, and found no defect in the meetings that preceded the passage of this historic law.” The anti-gay group said they may continue their campaign to deprive LGBT families of equal rights. ■

local and state (Bronson from page 3) In the September Primary Election, the Pride Agenda is endorsing Naomi Rivera (D) – 80th Assembly District (Bronx) and Shirley Huntley (D) – 10th Senate District (Queens). Pride Agenda Executive Director Lynn Faria said, “These candidates have clearly demonstrated their commitment to our community, and we are confident they are the best advocates to represent our interests while in elected office. “The nation is watching what will happen in New York State’s elections, and we won’t let the bullies who try to stand in the way of our equality and justice get the last word. Anti-LGBT extremists are already in full force, attacking the transgender non-discrimination law and attacking those senators and assembly members who bravely cast their vote for marriage. Our opponents can’t claim to have unseated a single legislator – anywhere in the country – just for voting for LGBT rights. We’re not going to let them start here.”

Healthcare Equality Index recognizes AIDS Care as a leader On June 25 AIDS Care announced that it has once again been recognized as a “Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality” in the Healthcare Equality Index 2012 report, an annual survey conducted by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation. AIDS Care was one of a select group of 234 healthcare facilities nationwide to be named Leaders in Healthcare Equality. Facilities awarded this title meet several key indicators for equitable care, including nondiscrimination policies for LGBT patients and employees, a guarantee of equal visitation for same-sex partners and parents, and LGBT health education for key staff. Many of the patients who receive AIDS Care’s comprehensive medical care and supportive services, and also utilize the on-site pharmacy (Pleasant Street Apothecary) are members of the LGBT community. Erik Libey, director of LGBT health initiatives at AIDS Care, said, “AIDS Care is very proud to have been recognized for a second consecutive year by the Human Rights Campaign as a leader, both locally and throughout the country, in providing competent care to members of the LGBT community.” In addition to the aforementioned services, AIDS Care’s LGBT Health program presents health and wellness education to consumers and cultural and clinical competence to providers throughout Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes region. The program also includes

a website, www.everybodysgood.com, where the LGBT community can access comprehensive and inclusive information. The HEI focuses on key policies and practices that lay the foundation for a welcoming environment for LGBT patients and families. These policies include patient and employment non-discrimination, visitation and cultural competency training for staff. AIDS Care was congratulated by HRC Family Project Director Ellen Kahn: “LGBT patients deeply appreciate the welcoming environment provided by a Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality. It makes a big difference to know that your local healthcare facility is fully committed to giving you the same care it gives your neighbors and co-workers.” For more information on the Healthcare Equality Index 2012, or to download a free copy of the report, visit www.hrc. org/hei.

LGBT Giving Circle accepts nonprofit grant applications till Aug. 31 A group of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people and allies has formed the LGBT Giving Circle and pooled contributions in a new fund, and currently is accepting grant applications from nonprofit organizations that work to bridge diversity and cultivate community. The LGBT Giving Circle, established at Rochester Area Community Foundation in October 2011, is a philanthropic group of like-minded individuals and households interested in making a difference in their community now and in the future. To do that, annual contributions in the form of memberships are evenly split between grant making for the current year and endowment to meet future needs. These contributions are made to the LGBT Fund for Greater Rochester and later this year members will decide together how the grant money should be distributed. “I am excited to get to know other LGBT philanthropists in the community. For me, it represents being at the table in the philanthropic community in Rochester,” says John Williams of Rochester, a founding member of the Giving Circle. Giving Circles are a way to introduce philanthropy to groups of people with the simple premise that more can be accomplished by working together rather than as individuals. Giving Circles include social, educational and engagement opportunities that connect participants to their communities, while increasing their understanding of philanthropy and community issues. The LGBT Giving Circle is one of four affiliated with the Community Foundation. The others are the Rochester Women’s Giving Circle, NextGen Rochester, and the African American Giving Initiative. Establishing an LGBT group to promote positive change in the community — and beyond — is not new. “Twenty years ago, employees at Kodak, Bausch & Lomb and Xerox formed the first employee resource groups in Rochester to help legitimize the LGBT demographic within companies in order to change public policy,” recalls Emily Jones of Greece, a Kodak retiree and one of the Giving Circle’s founding members. “Moving forward with the Giving Circle, we do not know what will be needed in the future, but we do know that programs that support the LGBT community and its allies will need funding to promote change that is beneficial to all.” Founding members of the Giving Circle developed the following mission statement to help focus the group’s efforts: “Our mission is to unite donors to support organizations that serve, are inclusive of, or are allied with the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community to enhance and strengthen our region.” The LGBT Giving Circle, which so far has received gifts or memberships from

AUGUST 2012 • number 459 • gay alliance of the genesee valley • the empty closet more than 50 individuals or households, is now accepting applications from nonprofits in the eight-county region for its inaugural round of community grants. Only organizations and institutions that have a non-discrimination policy stating that they do not discriminate based on sexual orientation and gender expression in employment, promotion, or provision of services are eligible. Grant criteria, developed by the Giving Circle members, includes the provision that projects seeking funding should accomplish some, if not all of the following: Further the mission of the LGBT Giving Circle; Keep the grant money in the community and support the local economy; Encourage communication and cooperation among organizations, associations, agencies, and institutions in the community; Leverage support from other sources; Address a need, population, or issue that has been under-served or underfunded. It is expected that grants will range from $500 to $2,000. All applications must be submitted by Aug. 31 via email or postmarked by that date if it is mailed. The grant proposals will be reviewed by a Grants Committee and recommendations will be shared with and voted on by all eligible members of the Giving Circle. The grants will be awarded in November. The Giving Circle is interested in having more people join. Annual membership levels are $250, $500 or $1,000 for an individual or a household. A household membership provides one vote during the grant making process. Contributions of any amount or gifts honoring a person or special event also are welcome. Participating in the Giving Circle, says Williams, is about “a willingness to give, not the amount of the gift.” For more details on the LGBT Giving Circle and the grant criteria and application, visit www.racf.org/LGBT. ■

national and international (Newsfronts continued from page 5) to gay couples, especially in states that allow civil unions or gay marriages. The Church had been relatively silent on issues related to transgender clergy until that weekend. “The Episcopal Church one of a growing number of denominations to see a new day in the intersection of faith and sexual orientation and gender identity. This is not only good for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people but it is good for the soul of the church,” added Rev. Flournoy. -Human Rights Campaign

Va. athletic club rejects gay family, then retracts Will Trinkle and Juan Granados applied for a family membership at the Roanoke Athletic Club in Virginia, clearly listing themselves as same-sex partners with a two-year-old son, Oliver. Will Trinkle said he was encouraged to apply for a family plan by a club employee because only children on family plan memberships are allowed to use the club pool. But Trinkle says that just nine days after his application was approved, a club employee called to tell him it was a mistake, that the club was revoking their membership because the state of Virginia doesn’t consider Will, Juan and Oliver to be a “real” family. Mark Lynn Ferguson, a Roanoke native, was outraged by this alleged discrimination against Will and Juan’s family. Mark started a petition on Change. org demanding that the Roanoke Athletic Club reinstate their membership and treat all families equally. The Roanoke Athletic Club is owned by the Carilion Clinic, a company which owns and operates 150 hospitals and medical clinics in Virginia, serving over a million people. “If Carilion won’t give unmarried couples access to a pool, how

will it treat them at a hospital?” Mark Ferguson asked. Will Trinkle says that he was told by a Roanoke Athletic Club employee that “they were ‘tightening policies’ so no families like us would ever ‘get as far’ as we had.” Ferguson decided it was important to send Carilion’s leaders a strong message before the club’s policies were “tightened” and more families faced discrimination. On second thought… After more than 150,000 people signed the petition on Change.org, the Carilion Clinic announced a policy change on their club’s Facebook page. According to the Facebook page, the revised membership policy now “consists of a primary member and up to one additional household member that permanently lives in the household, and any of their dependent children under the age of 22 who also reside in the household on a permanent basis.” “Carilion Clinic did the absolute right thing here,” said Ferguson, upon hearing the news. “I applaud them for listening to the thousands of people who signed my petition on Change.org, and for moving so quickly to respond to the outpouring of support for Will, Juan, and their son Oliver. Hopefully, more private clubs will follow the leadership of the Carilion Clinic and change their policies as well.” “Incredibly, in just a few days, more than 150,000 people signed Mark’s Change.org petition calling on the Carilion Clinic to allow gay parents and their kids to swim at the Roanoke Athletic Club,” said Joe Mirabella, Campaign Manager for Change.org. “After Mark’s campaign went viral, the Carilion Clinic clearly realized that they needed to respond quickly before the issue became a national news story.”

Ukraine cancels vote on silencing pro-gay speech In a last minute move, the Ukrainian parliament cancelled the July 6 scheduled vote on legislation that would ban any Ukrainian citizen from speaking favorably about gays or lesbians. Human rights defenders and many European officials have condemned the proposed law for its potentially chilling effect on freedom of speech and expression for millions of Ukrainians -- gay and straight. The move to shelve the bill is seen as a critical victory for its opponents, leaving only a short window in September for it to be reconsidered before the dissolution of the sitting Parliament. “More than 120,000 All Out members spoke out against this horrendous legislation and pushed it to the top of Europe’s diplomatic agenda. The message of our growing global movement is simple -- everyone should be able to live openly and love who they choose. That call has been echoed by the European diplomatic community who played a critical role in blocking the progress of the gay gag law,” said Andre Banks, co-founder and executive director of AllOut.org. “Above all, this is a victory for our partners in Ukraine. Together we are sending a strong message to the other governments of Eastern Europe. Support for anti-gay laws emboldens extremists at the expense of lucrative European ambitions.” On July 5, AllOut.org, a global movement to dramatically accelerate the move toward full equality for LGBT people all over the world, delivered its petition with 120,000 signers to Ukrainian authorities at the European Union and Council of Europe. Thousands of All Out members also made direct phone calls to their Foreign Office, pushing for action against Law 8711. Key European governments, the European Parliament and Sir Elton John eventually denounced the law (number 8711), with the governments of Ireland and Argentina issuing statements as late as July 5. Law 8711 would make it illegal to “spread homosexuality” by “holding meetings, parades, actions, demonstrations and mass events aiming at intentional distribution of any positive information about homosexuality” and imposes penalties of

fines and up to five years imprisonment. Fines and even time in prison would apply to a journalist who publishes a positive article about a gay person, a writer who features a lesbian character on TV or a teacher who publicly supports human rights for gay people in the classroom. Human rights activists in Ukraine have noted, “The authorities are increasingly worried about the so-called decline of morality in society, but (the anti-gay law) only diverts attention from pressing problems of social insecurity of the population of Ukraine. Instead of solving real problems they are trying to find a ‘common enemy’ in the state.”

Rev. Irene Monroe to receive GLAD award Reverend Irene Monroe, nationally renowned African American lesbian activist, scholar and public theologian, will receive this year’s Spirit of Justice Award from Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD). “Reverend Irene Monroe was enthusiastically selected by board and staff for her contributions to the advancement of equality for LGBT people,” said Dianne Phillips, GLAD’s board president. “She has set an inspiring example of leadership and compassion for us all.” The award will be presented at the 13th annual Spirit of Justice Award Dinner on Friday, Oct. 26 at the Boston Marriott Copley Hotel. Reverend Monroe’s syndicated queer religion column, written with unconditional love toward all readers, has helped to shape public dialogue on LGBT and racial justice issues. Reverend Monroe’s work aims to highlight how religious intolerance aids in perpetuating other forms of oppression such as racism, sexism, classism and anti-Semitism. “I am honored to be this year’s awardee,” said Reverend Monroe. “But I’ve not been in the struggle alone. The interconnectedness between my work and that of GLAD’s is best depicted by the African proverb that states, “I am because we are; and since we are, therefore, I am.” My social justice work in churches and in the streets comes to fruition because of GLAD’s activism in the courts on behalf of us all.” Reverend Monroe is a founder of numerous faith-based LGBT organizations including: The Religious Coalition for the Freedom to Marry, Equal Partners of Faith, and Christian Lesbians Out. She is one of the founders and member emeritus of the National Black Justice Coalition. Reverend Monroe also served on the Religious Advisory Committee of Human Rights Campaign and was a commissioner on the GLBT Commission in Cambridge that attends to and addresses the needs of Cambridge’s queer community. Reverend Monroe’s syndicated column appears in The Huffington Post, Bay Windows, The Advocate, The Empty Closet, Pam’s House Blend and The Bilerico Project.

13 Reverend Monroe is featured in the film, “For the Bible Tells Me So,” and has been profiled in O, Oprah Magazine. She was also profiled in the Gay Pride Episode of “‘In the Life’ TV” where the segment on her was nominated for an educational Emmy. She has received the Harvard University Certificate of Distinction in Teaching several times. In 1998 Reverend Monroe was the first African American lesbian to receive the honor of being Grand Marshall in the Boston Pride Celebration. Reverend Monroe sits on the advisory boards of several national LGBTQ organizations. Past Spirit of Justice awardees include Governor Deval Patrick and his family, Bishop Gene Robinson, Tony Kushner, Terrence McNally, Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon, Tim Gill, Laurence Tribe, Beth Robinson, Mandy Carter, Reverend William Sinkford, GLAD Founder John Ward, and GLAD Civil Rights Project Director Mary Bonauto. Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders is New England’s leading legal organization dedicated to ending discrimination based on sexual orientation, HIV status, and gender identity and expression.

Wall St. Journal: More companies marketing to gays and lesbians The Wall Street Journal on July 9 offered a refresher on some of the most recent happenings in the “pink economy,” including JC Penney’s controversial efforts to win over the often affluent LGBT communities. Many retailers are turning their attention to gays and lesbians, a group that wields substantial buying power but isn’t fully integrated into mainstream advertising. Similar to other moves to attract different minority groups, the push comes with risks, as it could threaten the retailers’ relationships with some of their longtime shoppers who may be prejudiced against the minority groups. Nonetheless, from J.C. Penney Co.’s high-profile hiring of Ellen DeGeneres as its spokeswoman, to Target Corp. selling same-sex greeting cards, retailers are trying ways to cozy up to a community that by one estimate is as much as 16 million strong and has almost double the disposable income of the average American — some $49,000 per capita compared with the $26,000 average. The article also mentions the “One Million Moms” rightwing political group that targets gay-friendly companies, including JC Penney and, more recently, General Mills. That group had no comment. JC Penney spokeswoman Kate Coutlas, however, did speak with the paper and while remarking on the company’s recent catalog featuring gay dads, she said, “We are committed to being a store for all Americans. Our marketing reflects the diversity of today’s families.” Read more: http://www.towleroad. com/#ixzz208NGlHXe ■

the empty closet • the gay alliance of the genesee valley • number 459 • AUGUST 2012

Can we talk? Religion and LGBTQ; Trans open mic The Good, The Bad, and The Funny: Trans open story at Equal=Grounds By Casey Sullivan and Em Scrivani “Shauna O’Toole told not to talk and she listened! That will make the front page!” That’s how the funny started during a preliminary meeting preparing for the first official trans-specific event during Rochester Pride in years. On Wednesday, July 11, 70 people crammed into two rooms at Equal Grounds to attend the appropriately titled “The Good, The Bad, and The Funny”. This took part during the 11-day series of events celebrating LGBT Pride in Rochester. Shauna Marie O’Toole headlined and was largely responsible for assembling the keynote speakers, Maur DeLaney, Rowan Collins and Jason Roberts. The four have spoken numerous times with the Gay Alliance’s Speakers Bureau and are in talks about forming a panel to talk at different venues. The evening started with The Funny, as Shauna shared her story of the unfortunate yet humorous time when she shaved in a mini mart bathroom on the way to her counselor. Armed with hand soap in lieu of shaving cream, she was greeted by her counselor with, “What lawn mower attacked you? Who won?” when she arrived. The advice You Can’t Shave in a Mini-Mart Bathroom is also the title of her book, which shares anecdotes about her transition. The good and the bad were also represented with dashes of funny. Emily provided her story of how she transitioned in a rural town, which turned out to be unexpectedly supportive. Hers is one of the good ones, and the good ones are reassuring. Probably the youngest speaker shared

his experience about being bullied in elementary school when he was in fourth grade. For two years he struggled with dual identities until he found acceptance in high school. When asked why they do this, Maur responded, “It’s important to share this beyond our doorsteps.” Shauna strives to bring a positive aspect to a topic that has had its share of tragedy. “I do this because not everything is ‘woe is me.’ There are things that are very good, there are things that are funny that happen. And yeah there are things that are bad, but when you learn that you’re not alone with all of this it helps you get through it.” The evening had a positive spin as many speakers started their stories with “I can’t believe I’m doing this...” but this only added to the importance of sharing their messages. The outpouring of support from the community was amazing and very appreciated. Shauna’s idea of making sure no one is left behind was evident. The event was recorded by the Gay Alliance and will be transcribed and published as a book, the proceeds of which will be donated to the National Center for Transgender Equality. Representatives from AIDS Care asked attendants to fill out surveys to discern the level of interest in opening a potential trans health care facility in Rochester. Empire State Pride Agenda (ESPA) was also there to ask people to sign postcards in support of passing the Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act and to get people involved in the Transcribe Project. We appreciate both AIDS Care and ESPA’s ongoing support of the trans community. We would like to thank all of the people who shared their stories. More information about Shauna Marie O’Toole, and where you can purchase

her books, may be found on her website (youcantshaveinaminimart.com or shaunaotoole.com). Maur DeLaney started the Genesee Valley Gender Variants (gendervariants.org). Rowan Collins and Jason Roberts represented The Self Made Men (theselfmademen.com).

Panel discusses religious views on homosexuality By Tyler Schwab On June 14, the Jewish Community Center (JCC) of Rochester hosted a panel discussion as part of their ongoing “Nazi Persecution of Homosexuals” exhibit from the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. The panel was entitled “LGBTQ and Religion -- The Struggle for Inclusiveness” and featured prominent local members of varying religions holding an interactive discussion about the topic. Panelists were Megan Robinson of the Catholic Diocese, Michael Deck of the Irondequoit United Church of Christ, Rabbi Sarah Freidson-King of Temple Beth El, Darrell Lance from Lake Avenue Baptist Church, Reverend Canon Denise Yarbough of the Episcopal Diocese, Mubarak Bashir from the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community and Reverend Peggy Meeker of the Brockport Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. John Clinton Bradley of Oasis Rochester took the duties of the moderator. Clinton Bradley explained to the audience why he was there as moderator. He explained that he was raised in the Southern Baptist tradition and was deeply involved with his church as a teen, but “I harbored a deep secret that I was attracted to members of the same sex.” The touching story set the tone for the entire event. Each panelist introduced him or herself and explained what the views of their respective religions were on the subject of

homosexuality. While some faiths have stricter stances than others, all panelists emphasized that they welcome all people with open arms. Bashir stated that even though the Quran explicitly states that marriage is between a man and a woman and gay sex acts are forbidden, part of being a Muslim is “treating humanity with compassion.” Rabbi Sarah Freidson-King lightened the mood by making a joke about the Jewish viewpoints of homosexuality. “So you have two Jews, and three opinions.” The amiable comment perfectly described the diverse stances of Judaism towards homosexuality. There are three major movements of Judaism: Orthodox, Conservative and Reform. Beliefs and opinions towards homosexuality not only vary between these movements, but also within them. The audience then asked questions. Several audience members aimed their questions at Bashir and Robinson, due to their religions’ more negative stance towards gay marriage. One curious member asked Bashir how he could reconcile treating the LGBTQ community as second-class citizens. Bashir, who felt that this statement was untrue, responded by saying he believes in “separation of mosque and state” and that “no one has the right to judge other people.” By far the most rousing moment of the night came when a man posed a morally challenging question. He delineated to the panel his long struggle with homosexuality, which included his marriage to a woman for 24 years and the personal turmoil he felt trying to live up to the word of God. He asked why God would make him the way he was if He supposedly is against homosexuality, a sentiment shared by many in the LGBTQ community. This brave audience member received a loud and impassioned round of applause. ■

AUGUST 2012 • number 459 • gay alliance of the genesee valley • the empty closet

Opinion Military recruitment and the Rochester City School Board By David Kramer This year the Rochester gay community celebrated another good year. The floats at the Parade were outlandish; the spectators audacious. The South Wedge was saucy. In the bigger picture, Americans can also celebrate the first year of the abolishment of DADT. In June, the Pentagon even threw a party for its LGBT soldiers. Now that is progress. Now is a time to recognize that Rochester played a historic role in the elimination of bias against gay soldiers. Often forgotten is that, in December 1991, the Rochester City School Board became the first district in the nation to ban military recruitment because of discriminatory practices. Soon, other districts, as well as colleges and universities, followed the Board’s example. Finally, twenty years later, Congress completely eliminated sexual orientation as a bar to service. Today, any gay student in the Rochester City School District can proudly join the Armed Services with far less fear of discrimination and recrimination. Recently, I spoke with several members of the 1991 Board: Archie Curry, Rachael Hedding and Benjamin Douglas, and local activist Mark Siwiec. As they reflected on the unprecedented decision and the intervening years, several themes emerged. First, the Board believed it had to act based on one overarching principal. The Pentagon policy was in direct conflict with the Board’s anti-bias mandate,

which forbade any organization with a written policy of discrimination based on sexual orientation from recruiting. The Board felt duty bound to ensure equal treatment for all its students. Second, the Board’s decision was not in any way an anti-military statement. Quite the reverse. The Board wanted expanded access to a military career for all. A patriotic desire to serve should be celebrated not condemned. At the same time, one of the Board’s chief concerns was community reaction to a ban. The decision seemed sure to spark controversy. Siwiec grew up in Buffalo where he says its Mayor openly baited its gay citizens; he feared the worst. Fortunately, all agreed, as they looked back, that no virulent public backlash occurred. For the most part, Rochesterians accepted the decision as fair and commendable. The policy was implemented without incident. Siwiec says he was never prouder of the tolerance and progressive spirit of his adopted hometown. We can be proud that the Board held firm to principle. After initial hearings and discussions, the Board could easily have dropped the issue without anyone noticing. But it didn’t. Douglas remarked that he wasn’t out to make history, but to do the right thing. Today, he is more convinced; “Twenty years later, Congress and the military came to the same conclusion as we did.” Curry said he wasn’t really surprised that Rochester was first; “It was fitting. After all, this is the city of Frederick Douglas and Susan B. Anthony.” I could not agree more. ■ Kramer is a Fellow at the Nazareth College Center for Public History

Peter Kluge, Agent Registered Representative* 375 Woodcliff Drive Fairport, NY 14450 p. 585.248.6759 pskluge@ft.newyorklife.com www.newyorklife.com/lgbt

*Peter Kluge, Registered Representative for NYLIFE Securities LLC (Member FINRA/SIPC), A Licensed Insurance Agency. 375 Woodcliff Drive Fairport, New York 14450 (585) 248-6759 The agents of New York Life are dedicated to helping their clients customize solutions for their individual needs and goals. Protecting loved ones and helping to ensure their financial security. It’s a job that calls for the most knowledgeable professionals in the industry. Of course, if you asked them, they’d say it’s not about them. It’s about taking care of thepeople who matter most to you.

the empty closet • the gay alliance of the genesee valley • number 459 • AUGUST 2012

From our Readers We are ONE... To the Editor: Recently, a straight female coworker asked me if all gay men were anti-female. I told her that neither I nor any of the gay men I knew were anti-female. I asked her what had generated the question. She related that, during a previous job, a young gay man with whom she worked refused to talk to her, was extremely rude to her, and generally let her know he thought she was a lesser human being. It seems he treated all of his female coworkers in the same way. In contrast, he treated all his male coworkers with dignity and joviality. My response was that this young man demonstrated an appalling lack of respect for others, and an immaturity that borders on the infantile. I attribute some of this young man’s actions to the fact that he is evidently ignorant of the history of the LGBT community. Those of us in our senior years can well recall the 1980s -- the “age of AIDS”. This was a time when young gay men were dying by the dozen every week. It was a time when much of the country, especially the Reaganites in power and their evangelical allies, were indifferent to the crisis at best. At worst, they declared the suffering and deaths the just punishment of a vengeful God. At the time, most caregivers and first responders were reluctant to even touch a gay man with AIDS. It was thought that anyone could contract the disease from simple skin contact. Who stepped in the fill the void left by the absent caregivers and first responders? It was women, and especially lesbians, who came to the rescue. They cleaned and dressed the sick men, prepared their medi-

cations, fed them, took them to the hospital and, when the time came, finalized funeral arrangements. I think it was this outpouring of love, concern, and action from the lesbian community that ended the “us versus them” attitude that many gay men had had toward lesbians prior to the Age of AIDS. After that, we became ONE community: the LGBT community. There is no “us versus them” within our community. We are ONE! It is time that gay men like my friend’s former coworker came to realize this. Young LGBT people absolutely must know our history if we are to prevent anti-female or anti-male attitudes from developing. Such attitudes are counterproductive and immature. They only serve the interests of the largely white, rich, and conservative straight males who would delight in an implosion of the LGBT community. Phil Darrow

Go to: The Empty Closet pages at www. GayAlliance.org to find the latest news, resources, events! Friend Empty Closet News on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!

AUGUST 2012 • number 459 • gay alliance of the genesee valley • the empty closet

Making the Scene My Own Private Rochester: Jo and Chris Meleca Voigt By Susan Jordan Jo and Christine Meleca Voigt are longtime activists for marriage equality, working with Marriage Equality New York (MENY), now Marriage Equality USA (MEUSA). They were married in Canada in 2005 and in Vermont in 2008, and are thinking of renewing their vows in New York, now that marriage equality is legal here. Jo and Chris live in Greece with their two magnificent Maine Coon Cats Lincoln and Kennedy. Jo teaches Spanish and Italian at Greece Arcadia Middle School. She grew up in Irondequoit and has lived in this area all her life, except for college in Ohio and a brief period of living in northern California. She has been involved in Democratic Party politics, running for Greece Town Board in 2005 and County Legislature in 2009. Chris was born in New Hartford, near Utica, and raised in the Rochester area. She is a special education teacher at a Hilton middle school. The two became a couple in 2001. Jo said, “It was that time period when Massachusetts legalized marriage and thenPresident George Bush appeared on TV to call for a constitutional amendment to define marriage as between a man and a woman. The day I watched him say that was the day I became an activist.” They became active with Equality Rochester through Anne Tischer, and then met Cathy Marino Thomas and Ron Zacchi of MENY. Jo said, “Anne was in Equality Rochester and HRC had a representative in Rochester, but MENY didn’t. As the coalition came together, Rochester was a pivotal part of the fight, and we knew it. So it was something that had to

be done.” Jo became the Rochester leader for MENY. Marriage equality was defeated in the NYS Senate in December 2009, but then the separate activist groups came together to form the coalition that ultimately succeeded in passing the legislation in June 2011. “The coalition was critical,” Chris said. Jo added, “I was talking to supportive Republicans and sending them to talk to Sen. Alesi (one of the four Republicans who ultimately voted in favor of marriage equality). People from his own party. We worked with Matt Haag on building the local coalition of businesses supporting equality. I worked with Harry Bronson and did roundtables at DUPC and elsewhere to reach allies like PFLAG and all different kinds of people and families affected by the legislation. We did the big rally in Fairport in April 2011, at the canal across from Sen. Alesi’s office. It was about the financial benefits that marriage equality would bring to New York. Thinking back to the first part of 2011, I can’t put into words the momentum – it was overwhelming.” When the bill passed on June 24, 2011, Jo and Chris were of course elated, but then somewhat deflated by the fact that they had planned to go on vacation to Greece (the European one) and Italy, so that they missed the big celebration at Rochester Pride 2011. Not only that. They just happened to arrive in Athens in the middle of protests against the economic collapse, and were tear gassed! On June 24, 2012, however, Jo and Chris marched in the NYC Pride Parade with MEUSA. Jo told The Empty Closet, “After over a decade of marriage activism, it was an indescribable feeling to participate in NYC Pride with my wife and colleagues from Marriage Equality USA. The

Businesses in the Community

Jennifer Posey making waffle cones. Photo: Susan Jordan

Hedonist Artisan Chocolates By Susan Jordan When in search of fine handmade chocolates in Rochester, there is only one choice: Hedonist Artisan Chocolates, 674 South Ave. Jennifer Posey and her partner Zahra Langford started the business in 2007. Jennifer and Zahra moved to Rochester in 2004 from Michigan; they are originally from California. Zahra took a job at Xerox, and Jennifer, who had worked as director of parks and recreation in their Michigan town, looked for something to do. The answer was chocolate. “I worked at Equal=Grounds as a

barista,” Jennifer told The Empty Closet. “In California I had worked for Richard Donnelly, a chocolatier (rhymes with “musketeer”). I wasn’t an apprentice – just a minion. I learned there’s a whole different world of chocolate. There are a lot of people who care about chocolate and all the different kinds…. We realized that there were no fine chocolate makers in Rochester. We are now members of the Fine Chocolate Association. You have to practice fine chocolate making using quality ingredients. “Every chocolate and candy maker has a different technique. For instance, we don’t use wax, which a lot of places do. We use other techniques to make our chocolate look shiny. We don’t use corn syrup – we use brown rice syrup instead.” Hedonist is a French-American style chocolate maker and does not grind and blend cocoa beans – the “bean to bar” method. Jennifer said, “We use two different brands: Valrhona (the worldwide leader) and Noel, another French chocolate. It comes in little disks, although you can get it in large chunks. We then temper the chocolate – a process of heating and cooling. We melt it at 110 degrees and then cool it down to around 80 degrees, then heat it again to around 90. This makes the crystals inside the chocolate behave in a certain way – making it harder and firmer, with a shine, so it snaps when you

Jo and Chris at Equal=Grounds. Photo: Susan Jordan

Pride theme of ‘Share The Love’ was felt from the millions of people celebrating. It was an empowering experience that served to energize the continued fight for full equality for ALL.” Although they live in Greece, Chris and Jo love the city; their favorite area is the Park Avenue neighborhood. Chris commented, “It still has mom and pop stores, and artists – it’s like an urban neighborhood.” Chris is also especially fond of the lakeshore. “I love being near the water,” she said. “I find it gives me a feeling of calm and serenity.” Jo prefers working in her garden. “Years ago, we dug out a veggie garden,” she said, “and I remembered that every ancestor I can trace was a farmer. So yes, it was back to my roots.” Her father has a large backyard garden and a stand at the Public Market, which is one of Jo’s favorite Rochester places. “I LOVE the Public Market,” she said. “It’s a great icon for Rochester and was recently voted the best in the country.” As far as Rochester events, the Pride Parade comes first; Jo is co-chair of the Parade Committee. Chris admits to a

fondness for the Hilton Fireman’s Carnival – “It’s where I grew up and it means home to me.” Their favorite restaurants are 2Vine downtown, Ristorante Lucano on East Ave. at Winton (“Authentic Italian!”) and CiBon on Park Ave. They enjoy films at The Little. “It’s outstanding,” Jo said, “especially the way it has supported our community. We love ImageOut.” Their friend Deborah Magone is their favorite local musician. “She does blues/ rock and was just nominated for the L.A. Music Award album of the year. She is an ally who has done a lot for the LGBT community,” Jo said. Jo commented, “I think about the significant role Rochester has played in history: how the first Republican state legislator to vote for marriage equality came from Rochester, and I think about women’s rights, labor history, and the Underground Railroad. When I look at the fight for justice and equal rights, Rochester seems to play a pivotal role. That’s what inspired me to take an active part in politics. There’s a rich history here of people fighting for equality.” ■

break it and isn’t soft. Humidity is a big factor. We have a new system that helps keep the humidity under 50 percent.” When asked what the main challenges are in starting one’s own small business, Jennifer says, “It’s all a challenge for people who are committed to it. A lady told me that the secret to success is having a partner who pays the bills! We started the business with $300 in credit cards. Especially in the early years we kept overhead down. You have to have a website, Facebook page, proper credit card processing, etc. – all the things big businesses have. If you don’t, people just aren’t interested. “One big thing: never cut corners. Businesses that do usually don’t last. Always be honest and put your best foot forward. Mostly you have to have clear goals and objectives. We started with a business plan – and then re-wrote it. Originally we were going to have both chocolate and ice cream, but we realized that was too much. You have to have goals, and we reached them. Have a business plan and always be there – our hands are in everything.” Now Hedonist does ice cream as well. “People wanted it,” Jennifer said, “but ice cream in general is a failing business. It’s just not profitable. You’d have to sell 100 cones a day to make a profit, so it’s not a moneymaker. But that’s not a concern for us – we want people to come to the South Wedge to have a good time. We have only 20 percent over run – meaning air in ice cream. We’re closer to gelato – but we do have 16 percent butter fat. “Our current chocolate maker Nathaniel Mich is very interested in ice cream. We have eight flavors at a time, and our ingredients are shared, so we don’t have to have a whole separate business. We use local cream for both the chocolate and

the ice cream – it’s from Pittsford Dairy. A lot of the taste is not in the chocolate, it’s in the cream. Our flour is local, from Churchville; we use local goat cheese and get our fruit from Hurd Orchards in Holley – right now we do strawberry, raspberry sorbet, and peach brandy with blueberry. We want to use the great local stuff that’s available, because it’s good and it’s fun. Local is one of our values – but we get people who say, ‘I shop here because it’s local.’ I want them to shop here because it’s good and it pleasures your senses.” They make their own waffle cones as well. Jennifer says, “We spend more time making cones than we do ice cream. We make cones all day long.” Hedonist chocolates are available at several Finger Lakes wineries, especially at Ravine on Keuka Lake, and at their new location in Geneva. “It’s a great winery,” Jennifer says. Jennifer partners with Rochester Works in their program to give local youth employment skills. “The kids learn to show up on time, answer the phone, pack things – there’s an incredible amount of work to be done in a chocolate shop. It’s labor intensive for us to train them, but our goal is to be able to hire them afterwards. One of our youth workers is still with us after a year.” A Hedonist is someone in pursuit of pleasure, especially the pleasures of the senses. In ancient Greek philosophy, hedonism was the ethical doctrine that pleasure, seen as the happiness of an individual or society, is the principal good and proper aim of action. Puritanical, pleasure-negative societies have seen hedonism as self-indulgence. Jennifer believes that pleasuring our senses is healthy and her many customers seem to agree. ■

the empty closet • the gay alliance of the genesee valley • number 459 • AUGUST 2012

AUGUST 2012 • number 459 • gay alliance of the genesee valley • the empty closet

the empty closet • the gay alliance of the genesee valley • number 459 • AUGUST 2012

Complete Heating, A/C and Chimney Service Large enough to handle it, small enough to care. Now scheduling FREE/Reduced-Cost Home Energy Audits

585-621-2770 www.sparksmonroe.com

$69.00 Chimney Cleaning $59.00 Furnace or A/C cleaning Can not be combined with other offers. Restrictions apply. Must present coupon at time of service.

AUGUST 2012 • number 459 • gay alliance of the genesee valley • the empty closet

the empty closet • the gay alliance of the genesee valley • number 459 • AUGUST 2012

Columnists The opinions of columnists, editorial writers and other contributing writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the collective attitude of the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley or The Empty Closet.

Growing Up The Parade Passes By By Eric Bellmann For years I used to love hanging out in the west 50s in New York before Gay Pride. Even though the parade didn’t start until noon, by 10:30 people would be meeting their groups, getting into costumes, laughing, talking and it was great for taking pictures. Everyone was in a good mood -- the South American drag queens who one realized didn’t speak any English and the go go boys who would pose on the club floats, even the really old queens from the Imperial Court slathered in pancake make up, everyone was up for it. That all changed a couple of years ago when the parade route shrank because of a Heritage of Pride reduced budget. Now line up is in the 30s. The police have also severely restricted crowd movement, even hours before the parade is to begin. Once I could wander easily back and forth, hurrying ahead when I saw yet another cluster of participants shedding street clothes, slavering on sunscreen or glitter. Barricades went up. To get to the goodies now I’d have to walk back a full block from 5th Avenue to 6th and trudge back along a crosstown street. That used up a lot of time and energy and I always felt like I was missing something hot. Really annoying. And like many things I do now, things I’ve done for years, I’d say to myself, well, this is the last time for this, I’ve had enough. A month or so before this year’s gay pride, I thumbed through a Pride magazine, which mostly is ads from sponsors, and saw a small notice that there would be a special section of reserved seating for seniors. I qualify. Actually I haven’t seen the parade in years. I just take pictures for a couple of hours and then taxi down to the street fair. The crowds along the route, tourists uptown, our gang closer to the village, are too thick and who can stand for four or five hours? Not I. But how to insure access to this reserved seating area? Another distinctive aspect of being a senior is worrying a thing, almost anything, to death. Will they let me in? Will it be too congested, will parade marshals be stressed to the point that they will ignore me, will the police not let me through? It goes on and on. In May, walking along 23rd St., I recognized Ann Northrup (she has a cable TV news program with Any Humm that deals with gay topics) and stopped her. Could she help me? She said she would try and we traded email addresses. Two weeks later, back in Rochester, I found a message from her saying she had contacted both SAGE and HOP. Her messages had not been acknowledged. She urged me to try. I didn’t get any responses either, at least not right away. I kept on sending requests pleading infirmity, sincerity, desperation, devotion. Three weeks later I got an electronic ticket. When I told Ann of my success, she wrote back, “Persistence always beats stupidity and laziness.” I’m in! So on June 24th I headed to Madison Square Park on 5th and 25th. A tent. Folding chairs. Nothing to obscure vision. Coolers with lots of sandwiches, cold drinks, even a cookie tray, all donated by Whole Foods (does Wegmans give Rochester Gay Pride any freebies? Just asking.)

And not a sea of geezers. Twenty five at best and all amiable. Let the parade begin. But it’s different this year. No more drag queens or not so many. Not as much skin, not so many skimpy costumes. Less glitz, less in-your-face whatever. Marching bands, support groups, religious groups and lots of politicians, even a Log Cabin Republican contingent (no one applauded them). It wasn’t exactly boring but it also wasn’t exactly the kind of parade where you would leap screaming, desperate to get a photograph of something outrageous and thrilling. What gives? The answer is obvious. We’ve won. Well, not completely, but the parade, which had become a zoo fest, is no longer a protest. A lot of the rage has subsided. New Yorkers, and on this particular day I do not consider myself a visitor from “upstate,” love their Mayor, love their Governor, love their out Lesbian, recently married City Council leader, Christine Quinn. They, we, at last, are living in the solution. It’s a good time to be queer. Email: elbcad@rit.edu

Cleaning My Closet behave By Meredith Elizabeth Reiniger I am writing this in a very ladylike way. I am, for your information, also sitting in a lady-like way. In times gone by, our summer shorts had to be longer than our pubic hairs. Lately the shortness of shorts shocks this lady writer down to her feminine painted toes. I blush to reveal the awful truth. Crotches are swaddled by spandex. Asses are billboards. Oh my goodness, such indecency obliges me to avert my eyes lest I swoon. Summer, 1945. Our backyard, 383 Troup Street. In the photo, my eight-yearold sister is sitting lady-like in a tin washtub full of water. I am 16 months old, standing next to her and the tub, pouring a bowl of water down her back. I was only familiar with bathtubs. So I got naked. The fifties: the lazy, hazy days of my youthhood summers. Swimming at Charlotte Beach. Not nude. Heavens to Betsy, no. I unquestionably conformed to gender specific lady-like behavior expectations. After I pushed the elastic band of my locker key up to my little-girl bicep, I did the lady-like Tug and Tug. Because always, beachside and poolside, we young ladies had to yank down the leg openings of our full-torso-covering bathing suits to keep our Private Parts concealed. When walking, we wore our towel as a cover-up skirt. We draped a beach towel discreetly over our “laps” when we were sitting down or sunning face-up. “Covering” was pretty much a Law of Lady-likeness. Now, in my dotagehood, I notice that Bathing Suits are ancient history. Modern is Bathing Strings. Top strings hold two waterproof pasties. Bottom strings anchor a shrinkproof thong. Exposed cleavage has become public property. Butt cheeks have viewing hours. The belly button, once a concealed boundary marker between third base and home, has become a fashionable navel site, flaunting rings and blings for spectator pleasure. What is all this flesh flashing? I do so wonder about today’s trends. Are they the fallout from Madonna or women’s lib, R-rated movies or YouTube

hype? I know from experience that we girls always wore our underwear Under and Out of Sight. When wearing dresses, we employed underslips to avoid embarrassing exposure of brassiere straps and panty lines. Our mandatory slips also prevented light from shining through our skirts, thwarting prying eyes from viewing the enticing space between our right leg and left leg. Now? Bras are accessories. Panties are passé. Modesty is up for grabs. My stars! How things change. I remember the long-ago dress code at Sibley, Lindsey & Curr. The female employees were allowed to wear navy or black skirts, and their white blouses, with required sleeves, had to be neck-high. No flesh-mongering workers allowed. Well, social evolution has come a long way, babe. Once upon a time women were not allowed to show their ankles. They wore so many layers of cloth that no light would ever pierce the folds. There were periods when women’s Dress for Success options were cleaning woman aprons, waitress aprons, housewife aprons. Job openings for women included mother and prostitute, no prior experience needed. Later, employment opportunities were teacher and secretary, some skill required. Eventually I heard the true history of women. Lessons that disclosed the bad old days when women were not allowed to speak in public, not allowed to own property, not allowed to vote. Not permitted to go to school. Not nominated for a state senate seat. Fortunately a current male senator has enlightened me about the current job market quandary. Yes, indeed, Republican State Senator Marty Golden identified the cause of women’s unemployment: Unemployed women do not know how to behave. (Apparently and lucky for them, unemployed men are well-behaved.) Mr. Senator must have scrutinized unemployment statistics, investigated hiring trends, and analyzed skills demanded by employers. And glory be to heaven, the solution came to him: lecture unemployed women about behaving in a more lady-like way. Evidently, those non-ladylikes would increase their employment possibilities if only they would “sit, stand, and walk like a model.” And good news… smarty Marty knew how to prep Unemployeds. The Golden Republican must have envisioned massive hiring surges when those unemployed women finally learned to “walk up and down stairs elegantly.” Imagine the résumés of his graduates: Trained to walk up stairs elegantly. Experienced in elegant down-the-stairs walking. Skilled in sit and stand modes. Qualified in Model Method. And so it was. Elected Senator Man offered the Golden Opportunity Etiquette Workshop. The classes would examine “posture, deportment, and the feminine presence.” (A pause while I hide my reddened lips with a white-gloved hand while I utter a lady-like gasp.) I wonder if those lessons of posture would stress in Vogue ideas. Leafing through airbrushed photographs, women might gather posture suggestions like stand tall, head tilted, lips moist and slightly parted, bust up, hips thrust, legs spread… just like the models. Then he dared to speak the word. Deportment. (Deportment is a word I last encountered in 1956 on my seventh grade report card when Mrs. Barker gave me “Unsatisfactory” in homeroom-ness because I did not stop talking during morning announcements.) Yes, Elected Golden figured Unemployed Women desperately needed Deportment lessons. I am not absolutely sure, but I am guessing those Unemployed Women would be coached in proper curtsey techniques to be used whenever Mr. CEO entered the room. Unemployed Women would be trained to avert their womanly eyes from He-Powers-That-Be. Would learn to wait to be spoken to. Would learn to perform coffee making. How to not throw a fit when her paycheck is much less than a male in the same job.

And that feminine presence… what might that entail? A feminine wringing of the well-manicured hands when asked a question? A full-time smile? A girly giggle in response to the fiscal report? Politician Golden shrewdly veiled his sexist seminar as a “Polish Professionalism” event. Used taxpayers’ money to market his commendable “career development” plan designed to curb joblessness among women in his Brooklyn district. Scheduled the event to take place in his family-owned catering hall. And posted the Golden Opportunity Etiquette Workshop on his website. It went viral. Seems that some women resented the implications. Many women thought that unequal pay was the issue. Others opined that the lack of affordable child care hindered working class women. Several believed technology skills were more important than lady-likeness. No one thought he was in his right mind. Or the right century. MeredithElizabethReiniger@frontiernet.net

Faith Matters R&B star Frank Ocean comes out (& exemplifies the community’s rejection of a “gay identity”) By Rev. Irene Monroe R&B and HipHop songwriter Frank Ocean has come out. Although it will (be) hotly contested in African American circles, some say Ocean is the first major artist to come out in both industries. For some time there have been rumors about Ocean’s down low trysts. But a journalist attending the listening party for Ocean’s new album “Channel Orange,” released July 17, noted that several of the songs were not heterosexual in messaging but rather were boldly “addressed to a male love object.” “When I think about the term ‘running away,’ probably it’s not the right one,” Ocean told New York Times reporter Jon Caramanica. “It’s more I decided to do something different, so that I might have a different outlook.” Ocean added, “When they’re emotional things you can’t run away from them anyway.” One of the things Ocean has now stopped running away from when publicly confronted is his sexuality. The 24-yearold New Orleans native posted the first week in July on both Twitter and Tumblr that he had a same-gender loving relationship when he was 19. “Four summers ago, I met somebody. I was 19. He was too. We spent that summer, and the summer after, together. Everyday almost. And on the days we were together, time would glide.... “Sleep I would often share with him.... There was no escaping. No negotiating with the feeling. No choice. It was my first love.” Ocean concludes the post: “I don’t have any secrets I need to keep anymore. ... I feel like a free man.” While homophobia is evident in HipHop, so, too, in R&B. As a rising star in both genres, Ocean’s not stating whether he is “bisexual” or “gay” has frustrated many in the LGBTQ community, but it might speak to his need to stay afloat professionally. At Ebony.com, Jamilah Lemieux noted that while few urban artists openly embrace homosexuality, many are in “the closet with the glass door,” living a life they don’t reveal in their music. “I hope that Frank Ocean doesn’t become ‘the gay singer,’ for it would be criminally unfair for him to wear that label, as so many of his peers are sleeping with and loving same gendered persons, while selling images of hyper-heterosexuality.” But that “LGBTQ” label is what many African American artists have doggedly

AUGUST 2012 • number 459 • gay alliance of the genesee valley • the empty closet denounced in spite of being caught in an indisputable same-gender lover’s embrace. Let’s not forget our down-to-earth Jersey girl Dana Owens, a.k.a Hip-hop’s reigning Queen Latifah. The African American celebrity gossip, news, popular culture and entertainment blog Bossip.com outed Latifah in September 2010, with photos of Latifah and gal pal and “personal trainer” Jeanette Jenkins in a tender embrace that was not intended for public viewing. When photos from R&B soul diva Alicia Keys’ nuptials showing Queen Latifah and Jenkins intimately embraced aboard a private yacht in France went viral on the Internet, the public’s long awaited “Gotcha” moment was revealed. “My private life is my private life. Whomever I might be with, I don’t feel the need to share it. I don’t think I ever will, “ Queen Latifah said in a November 2007 interview with People magazine, refuting rumors that she’s a lesbian. Ann Powers, in her article “A Close Look At Frank Ocean’s Coming Out Letter for NPR,” opines differently why artists might not self-identity as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer (LGBTQ): “There is another reason why Ocean can’t be saddled with an easy label, and it points to an interesting aspect of his newly minted self-conception. In his note, instead of embracing an identity, Ocean shared a set of memories and explored complex feelings, just as he does in his songs. Unlike the standard coming out gesture — newsman Anderson Cooper’s public email to his friend Andrew Sullivan, ‘The fact is, I’m gay’ — Ocean presented sexuality as something that arises within particular circumstances, defined by shifting desire and individual encounters rather than solidifying as an identity. In the age-old debate about whether sexuality emerges as something we are, or through something we want or do, Ocean carefully rested on the side of feeling and deed.” Although Ocean appears “label-less” in not identifying as either “bisexual” or “gay,” Cleo Manago, founder of Black Men’s Xchange (BMX), states in this article “Can People Let Frank Ocean Define His Own Sexuality” a possible reason why: “What we’ve witnessed is a profound chauvinism on the part of gay-identified individuals who cannot conceive of any identity outside of the limiting gay/ straight binary. And in the process, they continue to obscure the rarely acknowledged reality that many Black men who love men are not comfortable with the LGBT or gay identity.” The terms “LGBT,” “queer” and “gay” are not descriptors Manago and his organization would use to depict themselves. They would be “same-gender-loving,” because terms like “gay” and “queer” uphold a white queer hegemony that Manago and many in the African-American LGBTQ community denounce. As a matter of fact, he is credited with coining the terms “men who have sex with men” (MSM) and “same-gender-loving” (SGL).

With a president who now embraces same-sex marriage, and in this era of celebrated LGBTQ artists like Ellen DeGeneres and Wanda Sykes, the fluidity of sexuality is becoming more accepted, even in certain artist enclaves of the African American community. When Ocean [made] public his announcement, power couple Beyonce and Jay-Z expressed their support. And Russell Simmons, co-founder of the hiphop label “Def Jam,” wrote a congratulatory article, “The Courage of Frank Ocean Just Changed the Game!” in Global Grind, stating, “Today is a big day for hip-hop. It is a day that will define who we really are. How compassionate will we be? How loving can we be? How inclusive are we? [...] Your decision to go public about your sexual orientation gives hope and light to so many young people still living in fear.” Ocean has certainly changed the game for both hip-hop and R&B LGBTQ artists, but he sums up this issue best when he posted on his Tumblr page, “My hope is that the babies born these days will inherit less of the (expletive) than we did.”

A Few Bricks Short Blood Is Thicker Than Water By David Hull It’s bad enough when I have to suffer homophobia from some overthe-top, born again, evangelistic Christian, but I think even more offensive is when I suffer homophobia from the American Red Cross. Yes, that’s right – the American Red Cross. They trained me in First Aid and CPR, but they discriminate against me if I try to donate blood. Many straight people don’t know it, but it’s true! They don’t want my blood because I am a gay man and they’re afraid that I might pass along the AIDS virus … because I’m a gay man. They’ll take a blood donation from a straight man that has had sex with a harem of prostitutes. And they’ll take a blood donation from all the prostitutes too. You can have as much straight sex as you want and still donate blood. It just seems that they don’t want any of that nasty ol’ homosexual blood. This is because of an outdated policy, created by the FDA, which was implemented more than 30 years ago at the beginning of the AIDS epidemic. Back in the 1980s there was no way to test donated blood for the AIDS virus and, to be fair, at that time many did think of AIDS as a “gay disease,” so I guess I can understand how that policy came into effect. However, today, in the far-flung future of 2012, things are very, very different. We now understand that HIV can infect anyone, gay or straight, male or female, young or old – it’s no longer a gay disease; it’s a human disease. Besides that, there

are 14 separate tests that donated blood receives to ensure that it is healthy. The FDA policy that the American Red Cross adheres to states that anyone that is in danger of contracting HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, is ineligible to donate blood. Well, that would pretty much be anyone who is having sex with someone else! If they were really enforcing the policy no one would be able to donate blood unless they were celibate or a masturbator. Wouldn’t those be interesting boxes to have to check on your donation form? The policy is unscientific and discriminating and it keeps thousands of healthy, gay Americans from donating blood. A few weeks ago I passed a sign in town that announced there was an emergency blood shortage and donations were so urgently needed they were giving out free T-shirts to anyone who donated. Now I will admit that my first thought was about getting a free T-shirt, but I quickly reminded myself that if the American Red Cross was allowed to receive blood donations from gay men, there would be a less urgent need for blood. You have to admit, one of the many things our community does right is helping needy organizations. Donations for food cupboards, toys for Christmas, money for AIDS, cancer and other worthy causes – we do it extremely well and generously. Gay individuals and groups would certainly give to the American Red Cross blood drives and be a great assistance to this very important organization. So, c’mon, Red Cross, do what you need to stop being homophobic and let little ol’ gay me donate blood too! You can contact David at Davidhull59@ rochester.rr.com

Inspiritual can we talk? By Rev. Dr. Sharon Jacobson Sometimes it can be a scary thing when we listen to the things we say to ourselves, never mind each other. When we consciously listen to what we are saying to ourselves, we can catch ourselves slipping into a state of negativity. A space when we begin to lie to ourselves. When we hear someone we love start to say negative and self-deprecating things about themselves, we might jump in and help them to look at the space they are in that is enabling them to speak this way about themselves. However, who does it for us, especially when those thoughts are not coming out of our mouths, but just floating around in the back of our head? As the producer of our story, it is at those moments that we need to get in touch with our inner screenwriter and say, “Can we talk?” The lines you are writ-

23 ing for me are not working. They are not going to help me evolve or grow. They are not about helping me experience the light of truth, so rewrite them. Sometimes we forget that we are the authors of our own screenplay. In our screenplay, we are responsible for every thought and action and the intent behind them. We have the power to move ourselves from a state of negativity to a space of love, light, and positive energy. How we talk about others in our screenplay is also about us. While they may be supporting characters in our screenplay, they are there for a purpose and a reason, just as we play supporting characters in their screenplays. We write them into our stories in the same way they write us into theirs. Sometimes when I hear how others have scripted me, it is different from how I script myself. It is in those moments I have to remind myself this is about them; it is their story, not mine. They can write it how they want. I, on the other hand, am going to focus on my story and be intentional about it being a declaration of my truth about who and what I am at this moment in time. Keeping those negatives voices out of one’s internal script is not always easy. It takes practice. However, as with any craft or discipline, mastery comes through discipline, intent, and practice. So just for today, be intentional about saying to your internal screenwriter, “Can we talk?” any time negative or self-deprecating lines appear in your script. Edit them out and replace them with thoughts which propel you into the light.

Legally Equal A whirlwind of marriage laws By Marcus Kroll The last few months have been a whirlwind in the world of LGBT rights. May started on a down note with the passage of Amendment One in North Carolina. The amendment was passed by the voters, with 61 percent voting to define marriage solely as a union between a man and a woman. The amendment acts in concert with North Carolina law, which already bans gay marriage. However, the amendment goes one step further and moves beyond state law, attempting to void other types of domestic unions entered into in other states from carrying legal status in North Carolina. This would have the effect of disrupting protection orders for unmarried couples, gay or straight, as the new law also bars the filing of domestic abuse cases by people who aren’t married. Shortly after, in response to North Carolina’s amendment and a statement by the Vice President in a Sunday talk show interview supporting same-sex mar(Columnists continue on page 24)

the empty closet • the gay alliance of the genesee valley • number 459 • AUGUST 2012

(Columnists continued from page 23) riage, President Obama himself endorsed same-sex marriage. President Obama has already ended a ban on openly gay individuals serving in the military, and has disavowed the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), a federal law defining marriage as between a man and a woman. President Obama initially supported civil unions as opposed to marriage, but stated that his views have evolved. Reaction to his announcement from Republican rival Mitt Romney was immediate – with Romney opposing same-sex marriages. Surveys show public support for same-sex marriages exceeds 50 percent. On May 30, Lambda Legal filed a lawsuit on behalf of 16 same-sex couples and their children seeking the freedom to marry in Illinois. The lawsuit claims that barring same-sex couples from marriage is a violation of the Illinois Constitution’s guarantee of equal protection and due process. Illinois excludes same-sex couples from

marriage and only offers civil unions. The lawsuit contends that Illinois law labels such couples as different and less worthy than other Illinois families. It alleges that same-sex couples and their children have suffered discrimination in schools, workplaces, hospitals, and in their everyday interactions with government. Finally, in a landmark decision, three federal judges in Boston unanimously ruled on May 31 against a portion of DOMA, finding that it deprives gay couples of the rights and privileges granted to heterosexual couples. However, their ruling did not address whether a state has the right to not recognize an out of state samesex union. Some of the benefits denied to samesex couples include the ability to file joint tax returns, receive federal pension benefits from a deceased spouse, receive social security survivor benefits, immigration benefits, and the ability to inherit from one another free of estate taxes.

President Obama has instructed the Department of Justice to no longer defend the constitutionality of DOMA. Currently, the ruling only applies within the 1st Circuit – which includes Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Maine, New Hampshire and Puerto Rico. It will not be enforced in the First Circuit until the Supreme Court decides the case. It is unknown how this decision will affect other jurisdictions.

NY Gay Wedding Consultant A year of discovery By Eve Elzenga After a year of helping gay couples plan personal, unique, dignified and fabulous weddings I realize how much I have learned. From all the aspects of the wedding business to the emotional complexity of humans, it has been a year of discovery. Here are just a few of the interesting things I have found: There are two – yes, two – vintage china companies in Rochester. Want plates covered in roses for your shower or reception? One of these vendors can provide them for you. There is still a shop in Rochester where you can sit down and look at actual wedding invitation samples. Their selections are on thick, beautiful papers with raised or engraved lettering. Very traditional, classic and classy. The women who help you with your selection are experts on printing, typestyle and wording. But they do not use e-mail. They are a treasure. The freshest flowers in town come from Stan the flower man. Stan drives to Ontario, Canada to purchase directly from growers. He makes the trip twice a week and sells his stock at the Rochester Public

Market. He and his wife Diane are happy to help and will take special orders. You can rent gold flatware for 250 people within the confines of Monroe County. Hidden venue treasures. Two brides have chosen Sweetbriar, a National Historic Trust property in Geneseo. This house has grand columns with hundred-year-old wisteria winding around them. The lush lawn melds into the countryside overlooking the Genesee Valley. It is stunning. Sweets, Sweets -- Everywhere: The number of excellent bakers in Rochester is astounding. Premier Pastry and Vickie, the pastry chef at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center, are the top masters of creating beautiful, dramatic and delicious cakes. There is a production company that can create any kind of wedding theme you can think up. Its creative genius is Jesse Lucas, Riverside Productions. This company is a part of the Rochester Riverside Convention Center. Jesse and his team make magic, building set pieces, designing amazing floral arrangements, creating to-die-for tablescapes and using lighting as paint. Not only are they talented, they are so nice, kind and excited about every project. My best discovery of the year has been working with the Rochester Riverside Convention Center. David Carpenter and his staff are first rate. Attention to detail, perfection and beauty along with professionalism are all part of the package they offer. The prices are excellent and service cannot be beat. And they do events in sizes ranging from a handful of people to hundreds. I am so grateful to have become a partner and friend of theirs. Still celebrating the anniversary of NY Gay Marriage, I am offering a special twohour consultation rate of $75. I promise you will leave with a clear sense of your wedding day. Call me at 585-733-2579 to make an appointment. meveelzenga@hotmail.com NYGayWeddingConsultant.com 585 733-2579

AUGUST 2012 • number 459 • gay alliance of the genesee valley • the empty closet

Community Dignity-Integrity D-I Rochester meets weekly at 5 p.m. at St. Luke’s and St. Simon’s Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St., corner of Broad St. We have the following services and activities for the month of August, 2012. First Sunday: Episcopal Mass/Healing Service, with music. Second Sunday: Roman Catholic Liturgy of the Word, with music. Third Sunday: Quiet Episcopal Mass in the Chapel. Fourth Sunday: Evening Prayer, followed by a Potluck Supper. August Pot Luck Theme: “Cool as a Cucumber.” Has the weather been hot enough for you? Do you have a favorite cold dish? Make it up and bring it along to share! No time to cook? Come anyway and join us! There is always room for more at our table. We will most likely eat our potluck dinner in the Lawyers’ Co-op Park, located on the river across from the convention center on Main Street; there won’t be any access to stoves or oven so be sure your food is fully cooked and portable! Further details can be found at our website ( http://www.di-rochester.org/) or by calling the DI Hotline at 585-2345092.

EMPIRE BEARS It’s been a great summer so far. Camping weather has been gorgeous. Dinner with friends, a movie, Avenue Q, cards and games when it rains; the Bears are having fun. Come hang out with us. Join us for Wednesday night supper at the Wintonaire at 6 p.m. Just a bunch of friendly guys. Go to www.empirebears.com.

Out & Equal Out & Equal’s Second Thursday Networking Event for August will be hosted by Constellation Brands. “Quintessentially summer -- heat it up at High Point” takes place Aug. 9, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at 207 High Point Drive, Building 100, Victor. Join us for a summer evening of socializing, light fare and refreshing cocktails on the patio of Constellation Brands. Enjoy complimentary wine, beer, Svedka vodka and appetizers. Be among the first to try the new Colada Svedka! Tour the Constellation Brand facility! Participate in drawings and raffles! $10 registration at the door covers all hors d’oeuvres and beverages for the event. Dress for a warm evening on the lovely patio and enjoy the beautiful views. RSVP early and invite your friends. (Note: In the case of inclement weather, space may be limited.) Additional prizes provided by Constellation Brands will

be part of this month’s 50/50 raffle. All monies raised will benefit AIDS Care.

Rochester Butch Femme Connection The Rochester Butch-Femme Connection will have two supper events in August 2012. On Saturday, Aug. 11 we will meet at Peppermints Diner on West Henrietta Road (Route 15) near Lehigh Station Road in Henrietta at 7 p.m. On Aug. 25 we will meet at the Hibachi Sushi Buffet in Southtown Plaza on Jefferson Road in Henrietta at 7 p.m. For further information on the Connection, contact Kerry/Max at (585) 2887208, email DressyFemme@aol.com or check out our Facebook page http://www. facebook.com/bfconnection .

Rochester Trans Group On June 30 RTG went on a field trip to the JCC (Jewish Community Center) where Scott Fearing, Education and Outreach Director for the Gay Alliance, introduced us to Alex Danforth. Alex is interning at the Gay Alliance as part of her education at Wegmans school of Pharmacy at St. John Fisher. She was asked by her professor and Scott Fearing to create a Trans oriented brochure on Trans medical issues. This idea came out of the Speaker’s Bureau Trans panel that was presented to the Wegmans School of Pharmacy. We were asked to look at the prototype and comment and we had a number of ideas and suggestions. The end result is, the brochure looks great, gives an overview of FtM and MtF medications and a listing of on-line medical resources and should be quite useful to anyone with questions and concerns about medical issues in transitioning. Then we saw the traveling exhibition “Nazi Persecution of Homosexuals 19331945” at JCC. There were 25 or so panels covered with maps, copies of letters, orders, statistics, articles and so many photographs and descriptions of the horrors committed in that time. The most disturbing and distressing part was that those hateful words of almost 70 years ago are virtually identical to the words being used to describe our LGBT community by hate and extreme religious groups today. Really frightening -- and that is why we march, that’s why we go to Albany and Washington, write letters and protest -- to demand our rights. To be recognized as the full human beings that we are. And that we ARE deserving of those rights! And speaking of marching – march we certainly did. On Saturday, June 16 a

group of us from Rochester and Buffalo marched in Syracuse’s Pride Parade. Then on Saturday, July 14 at the Rochester Pride Parade, we marched as the Genesee Valley Trans Groups, which consisted of members of RTG, GV2, and Trans groups from Syracuse and Buffalo (and a big thank you to Chelsea and Christina who brought the float they used in Buffalo’s parade and Syracuse’s last month). This is the first time that members of upstate New York’s three major cities have marched in each other’s Pride parades! And a HUGE thank you to Emily of Waterloo, who designed and created our absolutely incredible banner! Also thank you to Pam Barres who paid the expenses for the banner! And finally we are extremely grateful for the generosity of Bill Schaefer, a member of the Gay Alliance Board of Directors and Co-Chair of the Rochester Pride Parade, who sponsored our participation in the parade. Thank you again Bill! Hope you caught the “The Good, The Bad and The Funny” at Equal=Grounds. WOW, the turnout was incredible (around 70 people) and so supportive! Maybe 10 or so people were brave enough to get up on the stage, face the crowd and tell their story. You can’t imagine just how energizing it is to talk about your transitioning experience in front of an audience! Now that Pride Week is done we can get back to reality. On Sept. 29 we will have our usual half hour of socializing from 3 to 3:30 p.m. or so. Our discussion topic will be “Learning new gender social clues and unlearning old ones.” Then we’ll finish up with more socializing until about 5:30 p.m. We meet in the Gay Alliance’s Youth Center, located in the Auditorium The-

25 atre, 875 E Main St. Parking is available in the back of the theatre off of Prince St and College Ave. Note: if there is a guard at the booth, just say you’re here for the Gay Alliance and they have instructions to let you in without paying the parking fee. As we said in last month’s Empty Closet, this IS OUR time – such an exciting time – so many Trans related things are happening RIGHT now! And in October the RTG will celebrate its oneyear anniversary (can you believe it?) and we are planning some really great… (well that announcement will be in September’s issue). So come to a meeting, meet some great people, talk about your concerns, and hey, just have some fun! See you on the last Saturday of August!

ROMANS ROchester MAle NaturistS (ROMANS) is a social organization of gay naturists who enjoy camaraderie in the nude. We are gay, bi, and gay-friendly men over the age of twenty one. We are all sizes, big and small. We are single, partnered, married and divorced. We are short and tall, wide and thin, quiet and outgoing. We are young and not so young, furry and smooth. ROMANS is an inclusive social group for all men who are gayfriendly, who love to laugh and learn, and who enjoy nude social activities. Visit the Romans web site where an application for membership and information about the club is available. http://www. wnyromans.com or E-mail:wnyromans@ yahoo.com, call our message line at 585281-4964 or write ROMANS, PO Box 92293, Rochester, NY 14692. ■

Find the friends, fun, and common interests you’re looking for through the various groups listed above.

the empty closet • the gay alliance of the genesee valley • number 459 • AUGUST 2012

The Avenue Pub 37 Year Landmark in the Gay Community

y ea

rs ov r

rs y ea 30

er ov

er y

Est. 1975

y fo

Serving Roches ter’s ga

Est. 1975

The Avenue Pub 522 Monroe Avenue 585-244-4960

Serving Roches ter’s

AUGUST 2012 • number 459 • gay alliance of the genesee valley • the empty closet

Arts & Entertainment hensive medical care, support, and treatment that patients need to live healthier lives while coping with the many challenges of this chronic condition.” Funds raised at this event will benefit AIDS Care’s research program. Guests should plan on wearing their best white attire for this “elegant evening dressed in white.” Tickets are available for purchase and there is tiered pricing (prices will rise as the event gets closer). Event sponsorships and V.I.P. tickets are also available. For more information or to purchase tickets for Rochester’s White Party, visit AIDS Care’s website at: http://www.acrochester.org/modules/events/?event_id=48. For current updates on event details, visit the official website: www.RochestersWhiteParty.com.

Angels in America: Perestroika is at Geva Aug. 30-Sept. 9 Following a successful run of Angels in America, Part I: Millennium Approaches in April, Geva Theatre Center will host Method Machine’s production of Tony Kushner’s Angels in America, Part II: Perestroika, in the Fielding Nextstage from Aug. 3 –Sept. 9. Angels in America is set in late 1985 and early 1986, as the first wave of the AIDS epidemic in America is escalat-

27 ing and Ronald Reagan has been elected to a second term in the White House. Ranging from earth to heaven, from the political to the intimate to the visionary and supernatural, Angels in America is an epic exploration of love, justice, identity and theology, of the difficulty, terror and necessity of change. In the second half of Tony Kushner’s epic, the characters that we met in Part I, during the opportunistic 1980s, have developed a sense of community in the 1990s as they come to terms with overcoming catastrophic loss. Angels in America, Part II: Perestroika was being developed as Part I: Millennium Approaches was being performed. It received its world premiere in November 1992 at the Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles. A year later, it received its London debut at the Royal National Theatre. It won the 1994 Drama Desk and Tony Awards for Best Play. The cast of Method Machine’s production of Angels in America Part II: Perestroika features Judith Molner (Hannah, Rabbi, Doctor), Peter J. Doyle (Roy, Prior II), Joshua Radford (Joe, Prior II, Eskimo), Marcy J. Savastano (Harper, Martin), Darlando Bailey (Belize, Mr. Lies), Carl Del Buono (Prior, Man in the Park), David Kyle (Louis), Erin Kate Howard (Emily, Angel, Mormon Mother). As a special event, an encore matinee performance of Part I: Millennium Approaches will take place on Sunday, Sept. 9 at 2 p.m., followed by an evening performance of Part II: Perestroika, giving patrons the opportunity to see the entire seven-hour epic in one day. Angels in America, Part II: Perestroika is directed by David Henderson. The creative team reunites from last season’s production of Part I: Millennium Approaches and includes Andrew Sloane (Scenic (Angels continues page 28)

Kasha Davis premieres “Cocktail” at Rochester Fringe Festival Sept 19-23 Mrs. Kasha Davis is back with a new “Cocktail”! Local actor Ed Popil has appeared in several plays around town, including his acclaimed portrayal of Roger De Bris, the cross-dressing “Springtime” Director in Mel Brooks’ “The Producers” at JCC CenterStage and roles in “Lipstick Massacre” with Pandora Box at MuCCC and Geva Nextstage and in “The Mystery of Irma Vep” at Blackfriars. The rest of Rochester knows him best as “Mrs. Kasha Davis, International Celebrity Housewife” and the co-star of “Big Wigs.” The story of how Little Eddie Popil transformed from a young boy in Scranton, Pa. to “Mrs. Kasha Davis” is unveiled in a new play entitled “There’s Always Time for a Cocktail”. Popil is teaming with JCC CenterStage Director Ralph Meranto to present the play’s world premiere at The Rochester Fringe Festival Sept. 19-23 at the TheaterRocs Stage at Xerox Auditorium. Audiences can join the ultimate hostess for an evening of music, stories and party games with a heartfelt story of love, acceptance and finding your own path. For details, call the JCC Arts Dept. at 461-2000 ext 235. ■

Sept. 8 White Party to benefit AIDS Care Rochester’s White Party, a new fundraising event to benefit AIDS Care, will take place on Saturday, Sept. 8, at the Century Club of Rochester, 566 East Ave. The event will begin at 6:30 p.m. and will include musical entertainment, food, drinks and several surprises. The event-planning committee is comprised of volunteers and is being chaired by Lisa Cove, a longtime supporter of AIDS Care and friend of the organization’s co-founder, William M. Valenti MD. “We want to create a signature fundraising event, embraced and recognized by the greater Rochester community, so

that patients at AIDS Care can continue to receive high-quality care in a welcoming environment,” says Cove. The theme has been an international success in cities such as Paris, Montreal, Pattaya, New York and Palm Springs. According to Cove, “We want to bring this world-renowned theme to Rochester. The color represents purity, beauty, and elegance. It also makes everyone look beautiful!” Dr. Valenti, co-founder, senior vice president of medical affairs, and interim chief medical officer, will serve as the event’s honorary chair. “We are very excited to partner with Lisa Cove and the committee to help raise awareness about HIV/ AIDS,” says Valenti. “HIV has not gone away. AIDS Care provides the compre-

Area students’ revue will benefit Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS

Youth musical revue at Geva benefits AIDS group Geva Theatre Center will host “Fight With Love,” the annual musical theatre revue to benefit Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, in the Geva Nextstage Aug. 3–5. Now in its sixth year, “Fight With Love” stands as a symbol of the commitment of local youth in the theatre community to use their art to combat the HIV/AIDS epidemic. This entirely student-organized production aims to raise funds to fight AIDS, and the ignorance, hatred and discrimination that surround this worldwide epidemic – with love. Young performers are drawn from area high schools, with many local performers home on summer vacation from colleges throughout the Northeast, such as SUNY Fredonia, Marymount Manhattan College, Muhlenburg College, Fordham University at Lincoln Center, Nazareth College, AMDA, University at Buffalo, University of Rochester and Eastman School of Music. Featuring songs from such popular musicals as Seussical the Musical; Spring Awakening; Rent; Passion; Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris; A Little Night Music; Big River and Into the Woods; and scenes from Love, Loss and What I Wore; Metamorphoses; Antigone; All’s Well That Ends Well and Julius Caesar; “Fight with Love” acts as an avenue for audience members to both be entertained and challenged by the material. All proceeds from “Fight With Love” will benefit Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, a national organization providing assistance to those struggling with HIV/AIDS all over the country. This benefit offers the unique chance to experience a production that emerged completely from the talent and leadership of Rochester youth. Geva has donated their space for the performance. Donated desserts will be sold at intermission for the charity, showcasing some of Rochester’s best sweets, and prizes will be raffled off including gift certificates to area eateries, tickets to area theatres and items from Broadway Cares. ■

the empty closet • the gay alliance of the genesee valley • number 459 • AUGUST 2012

(Angels continued from page 27) Design), Zebulon Hounslea (Costume Design), Kate Sweeney (Lighting Design), John Wilcox (Sound Design), and Eric Evans (Dramaturg). Tickets start at $25. Reservations: (585) 232-GEVA (4382), Website: www. gevatheatre.org. Geva Theatre Center is located at 75 Woodbury Blvd. More information will follow in the September Empty Closet.

Jason & deMarco to sing here Sept. 29

Beth Bloom shows new photos at the Gallery@ Equal=Grounds The August exhibit at The Gallery @ Equal=Grounds is “bloomed,” new photographs by Beth Bloom. The opening reception is Friday Aug. 3, from 7-9 p.m. Equal=Grounds is located at 750 South Ave. Beth Bloom says, “Please join me to celebrate my second anniversary as gallery director.”

The openly gay, spiritually-focused musical duo Jason and deMarco will return to Rochester on Saturday, Sept. 29, for an evening of music and inspiration at The Episcopal Church of St. Luke and St. Simon Cyrene. They will be premiering songs from their new album, entitled “The Oneness of Praise”. With the international release of their album SAFE and the rave reviews that their award-winning SHOWTIME film, “We’re All Angels,” is receiving, Jason and deMarco’s story in People Magazine made the recording duo familiar names to music fans. Their first single, “It’s Okay,” earned Top 40 status on the Billboard charts and was recently selected as an Abercrombie and Fitch in-store playlist favorite across the nation. With the release of SAFE, Jason and deMarco step into the mainstream with their new moody and chilled-out delivery of new music, as well as recordings that appear in We’re All Angels. ■

AUGUST 2012 • number 459 • gay alliance of the genesee valley • the empty closet

Travel Mini Time in Minneapolis By Merle Exit Exploring Minnesota, I went to the cities of Stillwater, St. Paul and Minneapolis. Minneapolis is the largest of the three, but doesn’t necessarily have it all. I loved all three, with a totally different experience in each. After grabbing a bite in town, I was off to the Lab Theatre to see “Rocky Horror Live”. The theatre, located at 700 North First, is in the Warehouse District a few blocks from where I was staying. Great performance... excellent acting, except that I didn’t care for the guy portraying Dr. Frank n Furter. The locals got a kick because he’s a local personality. Mill City Museum wasn’t far from the hotel. Minneapolis tourism assisted by sending Bett Santrang. Built into the ruins of what was once the world’s largest flour mill, Mill City Museum is located on the historic Mississippi Riverfront. “Here, visitors of all ages learn about the intertwined histories of the flour industry, the river, and the city of Minneapolis” and I did. The original A Mill, built in 1874, was leveled by a flour dust explosion that claimed 18 lives. That explosion and the resulting fire destroyed much of the river-

Minneapolis: A view from a bridge.

front business area, cutting Minneapolis’ milling capacity in half. Rebuilding and the Minneapolis Historic Society are why it is here. As for the Riverfront.... Minneapolis has more bridges across the Mississippi River than any other community, including suspension, stone arch, steel truss, and concrete-arch bridges. It’s also the site of

Rochester Kink Society Ltd

Western New York’s Premiere Playspace

“Safe, Sane, Consensual” “A Safe Zone”

585.234.5295 P.O. Box 18556 • Rochester, NY 14618 email: rks@rochesterkinksociety.com www.rochesterkinksociety.com

the first bridge across the Mississippi. On January 23, 1855, a suspension bridge opened in Minneapolis from Nicollet Island to what is now the downtown side of the Mississippi at Hennepin Avenue. Combined with an 1853 bridge from Nicollet Island to the other side of the river, this suspension bridge completed the very first permanent span any-

29 where along the Mississippi River. It’s a great tour with loads to see and interestingly historic. I spent much of an afternoon at the Mall of America, then back to Minneapolis for dinner at Republic in a particular locale called 7 corners. New restaurant, pub style. Uses local ingredients! Separate bar area seemed quite busy! I had the best ribs ever! Marinated in five spices and other goodies. Sweet sauce rather than spicy or salty. Entree was a Butternut Squash Ravioli. Brown butter cream, crispy sage, toasted pine nuts. Totally delicious. Oh yeah... they had Kwak beer! I love that beer! Got a hanger steak salad and turkey and apple sandwich to go. Hey, they even make their own ketchup! Good luck to you, Rick Gunztel! Just down the block is Theatre in the Round, where I saw the play “The Reluctant Debutante”. I was not disappointed with the acting... a step above Community Theatre. An architecture of bright colors, waterfalls and tall windows spans the walls of Rosa Mexicano, located at 609 Hennepin Avenue, in the Minneapolis’ entertainment district, one of 12 in the United States where you can expect true Mexican fare that is far from Tex-Mex. I was looking forward to partaking. www. rosamexicano.com. And… for further information on Minneapolis, go to www.exploreminneapolis.com. ■

St. Mary’s Catholic Church 15 St. Mary’s Place 585-232-7140 www.stmarysrochester.org Liturgies: Saturday: 4pm; Sunday: 10:30am

the empty closet Thank • the gay alliance of the genesee valley • number 459 • AUGUST 2012 Thank you thank you you thank you Thank you

Thanks first to Carrie Vernon and the Pride Committee (Michael Hardy, Joe Murphy, Louis Mistretta, Bill Schaefer, Jo Meleca-Voigt, Jeff Markarian, Zayne Austin, Lora Thody, Alysa Styker, Logan Rath, Cindy Madison, Alyssa Vaisey), Jeanne Gainsburg and Scott Fearing for months of hard work! And thanks to… Jewish Community Center for keeping the Holocaust Memorial Museum exhibit open through Pride and for “Beyond Pride” • All of our wonderful Pride sponsors: Holiday Inn Rochester Airport, Tilt Nightclub and Ultralounge Co., Lake Beverage Corp., Three Olives, Finger Lakes Musical Theatre Festival, ImageOut, Sweet Revenge, Barefoot Wines & Bubbly, CNY Fertility Center, Rochester Victory Alliance, Rokk Vodka, Jagermeister, City of Rochester • Peter Mohr, Lyjha Wilton & Louis Mistretta • Logan Rath, tech support • Jeff Jones, PR • Volunteer Coordinators Robert Rogers, Cynthia Marshal, Ed Freedman, Kat Wiggall, Brigid Waterhouse, Ashley Powers, Bridget Brownell • Gerry Szymanski & the amazing Library volunteers • Over 250 Rochester Pride Superhero volunteers • Deaf Access Coordinators Alyssa Vaisey & Courtney Williams • All the volunteer interpreters • Gay Alliance staff (Anne Wakeman, Scott Fearing, Susan Jordan, Kelly Clark & Jeannie Gainsburg, & interns Ashley Powers & Alex Danforth) • GAGV Board and President John Altieri • Eric Marshall at Crazy Dog Tees • 140 Alex (PridePalooza) PICNIC Jeff Markarian & Picnic Committee members: Zayne Austin, Pat Cloonan, Liz Doyle, Susan McManus • Open Arms MCC for providing free food to Pride Picnic volunteers! • Anne Tischer & her balloon crew • Jennifer Mathews & Wegman’s School of Pharmacy at SJFC • Also the winners of the Pride Picnic sites decoration: 1st Place: Flamingo Farmers - Andrew Seefeldt, Brian Smith, Gary Douglas • 2nd Place: The River Folk Fortress of Sassitude - Kate Sweeney • Arena’s Florist • Evelyn Bailey • Rochester Gay Men’s Chorus • Rochester Women’s Community Chorus • Image Out • Tilt • Bill Levy • Hedonist Artisan Chocolates – donated dunking booth proceeds of $800 to the Youth Group – Jennifer Posey, Gretchen Arnold, Laura (LCat), Bettina, Pam C. Burris, Nathaniel Mich & Michael • DJ Todd • DJ Nickle • DJ Scott • DJ Hector • DJ Henry • Lambda Network at Kodak (provided free portraits) • EZ Bottle & Can Return • Monroe County Parks (Ryan Loysen & grounds crews) • City of Rochester (special thanks to Gloria!) • Verdad Security • MetroMotors • Thomas Warfield • Michael Gamilla • All the Picnic volunteer superheroes • Five Star Golf Car (Ray Nichols) • All food/merchandise/information vendors • Shea’s Outhouse • Nolan’s PARADE & FESTIVAL Rochester Police Department & Chief James Sheppard • Mayor Tom Richards & The City of Rochester • Rochester Fire Department • Park Avenue Merchants & Neighborhood Associations • Todd Plank & Tom Ferrarese • Drivers John, Bob & Jeff Briggs • Jami Hafner – Jessica Sutta’s driver • Three Judges: Deb Oppenheimer, Karen Morris & Terry Hill • Roc City Rickshaw • Wegmans (water) • VisitRochester • Larry & Kelly at Airigami • Award winners: Muthers Favorite (Best of Show): Tilt; Stonewall Award: Rochester Rights Activists; Rainbow Award: Outlandish; Community Award: Gay Alliance Library & Archives; Ruby Slipper Award: Rochester Gay Men’s Chorus • Committee Chairs Joe Murphy & Carrie Vernon • Parade Committee Chairs Bill Schaefer, Michael Hardy, Jo MelecaVoigt & Lora Thody • Bucks For Pride Coordinators: CD Baginski & Amanda Kelley • All parade participants & supporters • All food/merchandise/ information vendors • Festival entertainers: Jessica Sutta, Ronnie Kroell, Avenue Q, FuturPointe Dance Co. • Robert Hammond, WXXI • RBTL backstage staff • Joe Murphy • Bill Levy, Tilt Nightclub & Ultralounge • DJs Hector & Scott Free • Kittleburger’s Florist • Big Wigs Kasha Davis & Aggy Dune (Emcees) • Drag performers: Samantha Vega, F’ya Colby-Valentino, Ambrosia Salad, DeeDee Dubois, Sasha Sashay, Deelicious, Poison Waters & the cast of Sickening Saturdays, Tasha Brooks, Anthony Vasconez • Boulder & especially Louis, Lyjha & Jillian as well as bartending crew • Rochester Police Department • Special thank you to Jason Barnecut & David Zona FAMILY DAY Super Coordinator Lora Thody • The Rochester Museum & Science Center FLAG RAISING City Hall, especially Margaret, Gloria & Mo • Speakers: Chief James Sheppard, Matt Haag, Harry Bronson, Deputy Mayor Leonard E. Redon • Matt Molloy, emcee • Rochester Women’s Community Chorus • City Council members Elaine Spaull, Dana Miller & Carolee Conklin SUPER SASSY IN THE SOUTH WEDGE Coordinator Alysa Stryker • BASWA • All participating businesses: Boulder Coffee Co.; Echotone Music; Equal=Grounds Coffee House; Full Moon Vista Bike & Sport; John’s Tex Mex; Tap & Mallet; Tattoo Kamikaze PRIDE POWER MIXER Holiday Inn Rochester Airport Sales & Catering Teams • Singer Deborah Magone • DJ Chuck Argento & Assistant • Calamari Sisters & Barefoot Wines for prizes YOUTH DANCE Tilt Night Club & Ultralounge • DJ Chuck Argento • Bruce Gorman • Kyla Minx • Samantha Vega • Tonycio • BJ Scanlon THE GOOD, THE BAD, THE FUNNY Shauna O’Toole, Maur Delaney, Rowan Collins, Jason Robert Ballard • Equal=Grounds OUT & EQUAL NETWORKING EVENT 50/50 winner Joe Russo who donated back! MOVIES ImageOut for a superhero-themed movie • Third Presbyterian Church LAMBDA Project (and donation) Christ Church Downtown Special thanks also to… Photographers Ove Overmyer, Garnetta Ely, Jeff Cougler, Jeff Mills, Melora Miller, Gerry Szymanski, Jill Frier, Mary Lou Smith, Manuel Pena, Matt Ulakovic • & our great graphic designer Jim (Batman) Anderson Apologies to anyone whose name was inadvertently omitted. And THANKS to everyone in the LGBT community and all our allies who came to the events, for making this a great community-building 11 days!

AUGUST 2012 • number 459 • gay alliance of the genesee valley • the empty closet

The Gay Alliance plays a central role in advocating for the fair and equal treatment of all people, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.

Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley www . g a y a l l i a n ce . o r g

Out Loud, Out Proud: Youth Summer Camp runs Aug. 20-24 By Susan Jordan LGBTQ youth can find their voices and learn leadership skills and local history this month at Youth Summer Camp. The focus of the five-day free program for high school youth who are already out will be on LGBTQ history and identity, how to talk about personal experiences as LGBTQ youth, and how to maintain a healthy mind and body. Youth will play leadership games, facilitated by The Village Idiot improv group; see videos and films on queer history; do a community service project; go on a field trip and complete individual projects on the history of Rochester’s LGBT community. Youth need to apply by Aug. 3. Kelly Clark, Intergenerational Program Director, said, “The youth will be doing part of our Speak Out training, which will help them gain the language skills they need to talk about their own experiences. We will be doing a community service project – going to the AIDS Memorial Garden in Highland Park to do weeding and clean-up. In fact the Youth Group has adopted the Garden and will be going there two or three times a year.” Kelly said that The Village Idiot will lead some fun theatre games and improv early in the week, which will help the youth get to know each other. She added, “Intern Danielle Laurange from Nazareth will be our mental health counselor this year. She will work with youth on health issues like self-esteem. “We will screen a couple of documentaries, including ‘The Celluloid Closet,’ about the history of LGBT characters in Hollywood films. The youth will be working on local LGBT community history and Evelyn Bailey of Shoulders To Stand On is helping me with lesson plans, using the archive version of The Empty Closet. The youth will do local historyrelated small group projects.” She noted that Gay Alliance board member Bruce Gorman is raising funds to enable 20 youth to attend the program, which will cost the Gay Alliance $100 for each participant. As of mid-July he had raised $1,650 in one week’s time. Kelly said, “We feel it’s important that all families be able to send their kids even if they can’t afford to pay.” Applicants by mid-July included three youth from Henrietta, one from Rochester and one from Webster. Kelly said that all have already been involved in their school GSAs. She said, “The Summer Camp is called Out Loud Out Proud for a reason. This gives youth who will be in grades 9 through 12 in the fall the opportunity to be better leaders and community advocates. This experience will give them the skills to do that.” The Summer Camp runs Aug. 20-24 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. To register, call Kelly at 244-8640 or email youth@gayalliance.org. More exciting youth in the next issue.

RWCC donates to Gay Alliance Youth Group The Rochester Women’s Community Chorus (RWCC) has donated a portion of the proceeds from its spring concert to the Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley’s Youth Program. Consistent with the concert’s theme of friendship and support, RWCC’s audience was treated to a program filled with familiar songs, such as “No One is Alone,” “Bridge Over Troubled Waters,” “Lean on Me” and “We Are Family.” One of the group’s lesser-known songs, “Everything Possible,” expressed a message of unconditional love, one that every child longs to hear from his/ her parents: “You can be anybody you want to be, you can love whomever you will. You can travel any country where your heart leads and know I will love you still.” Unfortunately, not every child receives this kind of loving support. The $200 check donated by the RWCC to the Gay Alliance will become part of a scholarship fund used to train youth, building their communication, advocacy, and overall leadership skills so that they might ultimately help their peers to better deal with issues of sexual identity.

Gay Alliance Senior Center Calendar: August By Ashley Powers The Gay Alliance Senior Center is open to LGBT older adults every Monday and Tuesday from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. It is located in the Youth Center on the first floor of the Auditorium Center building, 875 E. Main St. (Park in the back lot on College St. and enter through the “theatre entrance” door. The Center is just down the corridor to the main lobby). August 6: Picnic Day, noon. Grab the picnic basket and bring a small dish to pass (optional) and enjoy a picnic lunch, then join us for indoor bowling. August 7: Movie and Popcorn, 1 p.m. We will be screening the film “Sunset Story” and enjoying popcorn. Come relax and enjoy the film. August 13: Kidney Foundation Presentation, 1 p.m. Join Megan from the Kidney Foundation as she presents “Love Your Kidneys.” August 14: National Creamsicle Day, 11 a.m. Who doesn’t love an iced treat? Come join us as we make creamsicles! August 20: Field Trip and Lunch Outing. We’re off to Barnes and Noble, then to Friendly’s for lunch ($5.29-7.99 + tax and tip includes ice cream). Meet at Auditorium Parking lot at 11 a.m., transportation provided courtesy of AIDS Care. Return by 2:45 p.m. ** August 21: Lunch with GAGV Youth. Meet up at Planetarium 657 East Ave,. Join the Youth at 11 a.m. in the Community Room to talk about history, then enjoy lunch (bring a bagged lunch). We will depart at 12:30 by van provided by AIDS Care. (cost $3 paid in advance so

we have a head count by Aug. 14.) ** Today is also NATIONAL SENIOR CITIZENS DAY! August 27: Banana Lovers Day. We’re going bananas in the Senior Center as we whip up some banana smoothies at 1 p.m. August 28: Dream Day. Come ready to write down and share your dreams. Then join us at 1 p.m. as we make “dream big” cards for the children at Golisano Children’s Hospital. Bring any card making supplies you may have! Is anyone thinking z-tangles??? Saundra??? **Activities subject to change. Call ahead: 244-8640. Thank you!

SAGE picnic, euchre tournament coming up! Are you ready for some food and fun? Then come to the Rainbow SAGE annual picnic at King’s Bend Park, North Lodge on 170 West Jefferson Road, Pittsford, on Sunday, Aug. 26, at 12:30 p.m. Hots and burgers will be provided and drinks (non-alcoholic) too. Just bring yourself, family, friends, plus a dish to pass. And if you want to participate in our traditional brown bag auction, please bring ONE brown bag containing a gift (whatever you think would be desirable) and label it male, female or neutral. Bringing a lawn chair would be advisable, hat and sunscreen too as we anticipate more of this, hot sunny weather. If you feel ambitious, choose from our many activities: croquet, bocci ball (lawn bowling), card playing such as euchre, bridge or your choice, massage, possibly a tarot card reader and a board game of your choice, such as apples to apples, chess, checkers, etc. If you’d rather relax and socialize, that’s OK too. This is an opportunity for you to sign up and pay to play in our annual euchre tournament on Sunday, Sept. 23 at 2 p.m. or our Fall Dance. And please help us spread the word to other gay and straight participants. So there you have it. The only thing left for you is to get out your GPS and head for 170 W. Jefferson Road. Or, if you don’t have one or prefer the oldfashioned way of finding a place, here it goes: Get to W. Jefferson Road and head for Pittsford. Go east on Jefferson Road to the Clover Street (RTE 65) intersection and go just a bit farther to King’s Bend Park on your LEFT. If you are coming from Pittsford going west, look for the park on your right just before Clover Street and turn right. We will have a balloon or two to greet you. Of course, this picnic is free -- we hope to see you Sunday August 26. P.S. We just may have a basket to raffle off! SAVE THE DATE: Euchre tournament coming in Sept. Calling all euchre players! On Sunday. Sept. 23 at 2 p.m., Rainbow SAGE

Alliance Youth The Gay Alliance offers Youth Services for Rochester area LGBTQ and allied youth ages 13-23 Check out what’s happening at: www.gayalliance.org or contact: KellyC@gayalliance.org Summer Hours: Wednesdays: 2-5pm Tuesday Teen Group: Ages 13-18: 6-7:30pm Special Interest: Transgender Youth, Arts/Crafts, Movies, Writing Special Events: Youth Dances, Day of Silence, Big Gay Prom, Pool Table, LGBTQ Youth Library, and Internet Access Fun, friendly, safe adults are needed to volunteer their time and talents, providing positive role models, maybe sharing a talent or skill. Contact Jeanne Gainsburg, Outreach Coordinator for an application: jeanneg@gagv.us or 585-244-8640, ext. 14.

will sponsor its fourth annual Euchre Tournament. A $15 donation is requested. Prizes are $75, $50, and $25 for the first three places. No partner is needed. The tournament will be held, as in the past, at Temple B’rith Kodesh, 2131 Elmwood Ave. To register, call Ginny at 585-473-4765 by Sept. 16. This is a fun tournament. All are welcome; encourage your euchre playing family members and friends to sign up. ■

The Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley: is a non-profit agency, dedicated to cultivating a healthy, inclusive environment where lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans-gender (LGBT) people are safe, thriving and enjoying equal rights. We are a coalition of individuals and groups working to empower LGBT people, to affirm their identities, and to create an atmosphere where the diversity of our community can thrive both collectively and separately. We educate and advocate for civil rights for all and for the eradication of homophobia. • Address: 875 East Main Street, Rochester, New York 14605 Hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 am-5 pm • Phone: (585) 244-8640 • Fax: (585) 244-8246 • Web: www.gayalliance.org Board President: John Altieri • Interim Executive Director: Anne Wakeman • Education and Outreach Director: Scott Fearing Director of Intergenerational Programs: Kelly Clark • Outreach: Jeanne Gainsburg The Empty Closet: Editor: Susan Jordan • Graphic Designer: Jim Anderson Phone: (585) 244-9030 • Fax: (585) 244-8246 • Advertising: (585) 244-9030 • E-mail: susanj@gayalliance.org

the empty closet • the gay alliance of the genesee valley • number 459 • AUGUST 2012

Resources

HIV testing on walk-in basis, Tuesdays, Wednesdays 1-4pm, provided through NYSDOH. Thursdays 1-4pm at Aenon Baptist Church, 175 Genesee St.

Check our monthly and ongoing calendar as well as the community section for more groups and events. For further information, call the Gay Alliance at 244-8640 or visit: www.gayalliance.org. And send us your information.

BISEXUALITY resourses

AMBI Los Angeles; American Institute of Bisexuality (Journal of Bisexuality); Bay Area Bisexual Network; Bi Café; Bi Definition: Milwaukee; BiNet USA; Bisexual Organizing Project (BOP); Biversity Boston; Boston Bisexual Women’s Network; ComBIne - Columbus, Ohio; Dallas/ Fort Worth Bi Net; Fenway Health’s Bi Health Program; Los Angeles Bi Task Force; New York Area Bisexual Network; Robyn Ochs’s site; Seattle Bisexual Women’s Network; The Bi Writers Association; The Bisexual Resource Center (email brc@biresource.net)

CULTURAL

Rochester Women’s Community Chorus 234-4441. (See Ongoing calendar).

deaf services

Advocacy for Abused Deaf Victims Mailing address: c/o ASADV, P.O. Box 20023, Rochester, NY 14602. 24-Hour Hotline: ASADVhope@gmail.com; VP: 866-936-8976; TTY/ FAX : 585-232-2854. Lilac Rainbow Alliance for the Deaf (LRAD) Meets second Saturdays, 6-9pm. For location, information: rcoaster@rochester.rr.com Spectrum LGBTIQ & Straight Alliance RIT/NTID student group. <SpectrumComment@groups.facebook.com

family

CNY Fertility Center Integrative Fertility Care. Support meetings, webinars, workshops. Information: cbriel@cnyfertility.com; www.cnyhealingarts.com

Contact Information: Website: www.acRochester.org. Main Office: 259 Monroe Ave., Rochester, NY 14607; Main Phone: 585-545-7200, Health Services After Hours: 585-258-3363; Case Management After Hours (Lifeline): 585275-5151; Fax: 585-244-6456. Finger Lakes Office: 605 W. Washington St., Geneva, NY 14456, 315-781-6303. Southern Tier Office: 122 Liberty St. Box 624, Bath, NY 14810 607776-9166. The Health Outreach Project: 416 Central Ave., Rochester, NY 14605; 585-4545556. Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley Referrals to physicians and service agencies. (585) 244-8640; www.gayalliance.org. Victory Alliance University of Rochester Medical Center. One of several research sites worldwide that comprise the HIV Vaccine Trials Network. Rochester site conducts research vaccine studies sponsored by National Institutes of Health (NIH). 585-7562329; www.vaccineunit.org. Threshold At The Community Place, 145 Parsells Ave., third floor, 585-454-7530. Provides confidential HIV, STD testing and General Health Care, ages 12-25. Sliding fee scale, no one denied, most insurances accepted. Mon., Wed., Fri. 9am-5pm; Tues., Thurs., 9am-7pm; Sat. 10am-2pm. www.ThresholdCenter.org Center for Health and Behavioral Training of Monroe County 853 Main St., Rochester 14611. Collaboration of Monroe County Health Department and U.R. Provides year-round training in prevention and management of STDs, HIV, TB and related issues, such as domestic violence and case management. (585)753-5382 v/tty.

Rochester Gay Moms’ Group Support group for lesbian mommies and wannabe mommies in Rochester and surrounding areas. Subscribe: RochesterGayMoms-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/ Syracuse Region 114 University Ave., Rochester, NY 14605; Tollfree Helpline: 1 866 600-6886. Offers confidential HIV testing and information. When you make your appointment, be sure to ask about our sliding scale fees. No one is turned away for lack of ability to pay.

Lesbian & Gay Family Building Project Headquartered in Binghamton and with a presence throughout Upstate NY, the Project is dedicated to helping LGBTQ people achieve their goals of building and sustaining healthy families. Claudia Stallman, Project Director, 124 Front St., Binghamton, NY 13905; 607-7244308; e-mail: LesGayFamBldg@aol.com. Web: www.PrideAndJoyFamilies.org.

Rochester Area Task Force on AIDS A collection of agencies providing a multiplicity of resources and services to the upstate New York community. Their offices are located through the Finger Lakes Health Systems Agency, which also provides medical literature and newspaper clippings, as well as demographic and statistical data for use in developing health care services. (585) 461-3520.

Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) PFLAG’s threefold mission: supporting parents and family members in coming out process; educating the community; advocating on behalf of LGBT family members. Regular meetings: Third Sunday of the month, Open Arms MCC, 740 Marshall Rd. 14624. 1-3pm. PFLAG@ gagv.us; 585-244-8640 x27.

MOCHA Center of Rochester Our mission is to improve health and wellness in communities of color through intervention and service, with emphasis on LGBTQ programming. Youth drop-in center, HIV testing, peer education, support groups, computer lab, referral services and more. 107 Liberty Pole Way (corner of Pleasant). (585) 420-1400.

Adoptive Parent Support Group Monthly potluck lunches. For information, location, call Shari, 350-2529. Angel Food Ministry Box of fresh/frozen food for $30 in advance. Menu changes monthly. For information and distribution sites, call 585 861-4815.

HIV/AIDS

Free testing for HIV exposure is available from New York State Department of Health: call Rochester Area Regional Hotline at (585) 423-8081, or 1 800 962-5063 for pay phones or calls outside Rochester. Deaf or hearing impaired people should call (585) 4238120 (TDD.) New Rapid HIV Testing now available in 30-40 minutes! Statewide information can be obtained by calling 1 800 541-AIDS. Other organizations which provide AIDS-related services are as follows: AIDS Care AIDS Care is the leading provider of HIV/AIDS services in Rochester and the Finger Lakes. On-site services include HIV testing and limited STD screenings, Primary and HIV Specialty Medical Care, Pharmacy, and many more. AIDS Care satellite offices in Geneva and Bath. AIDS Care is also a leader in providing services and education to members of the LGBT community.

Monroe County Health Department at 855 W. Main St., offers testing and counseling for HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. (585) 753-5481. Strong Memorial Hospital provides a complete range of HIV medical care, including access to experimental treatment protocols, and HIV testing. Also provides individual and group psychotherapy. Training of health care professionals also available. Infectious Disease Clinic, (585) 275-0526. Department of Psychiatry, (585) 275-3379. AIDS Training Project, (585) 275-5693. Planned Parenthood of Rochester and Genesee Valley Offers testing and information (585) 546 2595. Rural HIV testing Anonymous and confidential, in Allegany, Livingston, Ontario, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne or Yates Counties, call 1 800 9625063. Action Front Center (Action for a Better Community.) Provides HIV prevention education and case management services. Training and technical assistance to service providers. Resource library open to public. All services free and confidential. Multicultural and bilingual staff. 33 Chestnut St., second floor. Hours 8:30-5pm, Monday-Friday. 262-4330; fax 262-4572. Free anonymous

Anthony L. Jordan Health Center Prevention & Primary Care Program Provides Medical Case Management, Mental Health, Primary Care, HIV Counseling and Testing using the Orasure Rapid Test, Education presentations, and access to other Jordan services. Prevention & Primary Care is a walk-in program; no appointments necessary. Office hours: Mon.– Fri., 8:30am– 5 pm: extended hours on Monday until 8pm. (585) 423-2879; fax (585) 423-2876. Website: www.jordanhealth.org. For more information, call Program Director Patrick M. Trevor, (585) 423-2879. CDC National STD and AIDS Hotline 1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) 24 hours a day. TTY service: 1-888-232-6348. E-mail address: cdcinfo@cdc.gov. Fair Housing Enforcement Project of Monroe County 585-325-2500; 1-800-669-9777. Deals with housing discrimination on basis of race, orientation, HIV status, etc. Public Interest Law Office of Rochester 80 St. Paul St., Suite 701. Free legal services to HIV positive persons, families. Spanish bilingual advocates available. All civil cases except divorce; no criminal cases. Ask to speak to someone in PILOR. 454-4060. Evergreen Health Services, Buffalo Primary care, HIV and family care, HIV testing and counseling. (716) 847-0328 Westside Health Services Brown Square Health Center, 175 Lyell Ave. (254-6480); Woodward health Center, 480 Genesee St. (436-3040). HIV/AIDS services, support, more. McCree McCuller Wellness Center at Unity Health’s Connection Clinic (585) 368-3200, 89 Genesee St., Bishop Kearney Bldg., 3rd floor. Full range of services, regardless of ability to pay. Caring, confidential and convenient. Catholic Charities AIDS Services A multicultural and bi-lingual staff providing services to a diversity of people infected and affected with HIV. Coordinates HOPWA (Housing Opportunities for People with AIDS) short term emergency assistance with rent/mortgage/utility payments and limited subsidized housing. 1945 E. Ridge Rd., Suite 24, Rochester NY 14622. (585) 339-9800. Huther Doyle 360 East Ave., Rochester 14604. Offers drug, alcohol prevention, education, treatment. Risk Reduction Plus Team offers services to HIV positive and those at risk through substance use. Programs include outreach, transitional case management, free cconfidential testing (OraQuick Rapid Testing). NYS Dep’t. of Health offers free on-site confidential and anonymous testing. (585)325-5100, M-F 8am-9pm, www. hutherdoyle.com. Geneva Community Health 601 W. Washington St., Geneva. Provides HIV testing, HIV specialty and primary care for residents of Ontario and surrounding counties. Mon.-Thurs. 9am-5pm; Fridays 9am-noon. 315-781-8448.

lgbt health

For a list of LGBT-friendly and competent health and human service providers in the Rochester and Finger Lakes area, visit the resource directory page(s) at www.everybodysgood.com. Gay Alliance of the Genesee Valley See www.gayalliance.org Resource Directory under “Health” for Gay Alliance referrals to physicians and service agencies.

TRANSGENDER

Rochester Trans Group Social/educational group for gender variant people and friends. Last Saturday, 3-5pm, GAGV Youth Center, first floor, 875 E. Main St. 244-8640. www.rnytg.org Youth Trans Group First Thurs. 6-7pm GAGV Youth Center, ages 13-23. jessc@gayalliance.org; 244-8640, x 13 Genesee Valley Gender Variants Thurs. 7-9pm, Equal Grounds, 750 South Ave. GVGenderVariants@yahoogroups.com Transgender online: Transenough.com; www.endtransdiscrimination.org; genderfork.com; www.transgendercare.com; International Foundation for Gender Education Gender Education and Advocacy http://www.gender.org/; FTM Information Network http://www.ftminfo.net/; Transgender at

Work http://www.tgender.net; PFLAG Transgender Network http://community.pflag.org/ page.aspx?pid=380; TransActive http://www. transactiveonline.org; The Transitional Male http://www.thetransitionalmale.com/; National Center for Transgender Equality http://transequality.org/; New York Association for Gender Rights Advocacy http://www.nyagra.com/; Transgender Aging Network http://forge-forward.org/aging/; Transgender Law Center http://transgenderlawcenter.org; Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund http://transgenderlegal.org/; The Self Made Men http:// theselfmademen.webs.com/ (please send us your favorite sites/groups) Guys Night Out Social group for transmen. Third Saturdays, 1pm, Equal Grounds, 750 South Ave. tguysnightout@gmail.com

Women

Highland Hospital Breast Imaging Center 500 Red Creek Drive, Rochester 14623; 585487-3300. Specializing in breast health, diagnostic breast imaging and treatment and mammography outreach and education. Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester 840 University Ave.; 585-473-8177; www. bccr.org; email: info@bccr.org. Breast Cancer Coalition provides support services that include programs designed to help those coping with a recent breast cancer diagnosis and those coping with an advanced breast cancer diagnosis, such as the Advanced Breast Cancer Support Group to support women living with metastatic breast cancer. Information about breast cancer, lending library, a monthly educational program. All BCCR programs, support services free. Monroe County Women’s Health Partnership 111 Westfall Rd., Rochester NY 14692; (585) 274-6978. Comprehensive breast cancer screening services for uninsured and underinsured women. Elizabeth Wende Breast Clinic 170 Sawgrass Drive. 442-8432. Dr. Wende Logan-Young and an all-woman staff provide mammograms. Self Help for Women with Breast or Ovarian Cancer (SHARE) 1-866-53SHARE or 1-866-537-4273. Alternatives for Battered Women 232-7353; TTY 232-1741. Shelter (women only), counseling. Lesbians, gay men welcome. GAGV Anti Violence Project 585-244-8640 ext 19. For women and men. Victim Resource Center of Wayne County Newark N.Y. Hotline 800-456-1172; office (315)331-1171; fax (315)331-1189. Mary Magdalene House Women’s outreach center for HIV positive women and women at risk. 291 Lyell Ave. Open Mon-Fri. 6:30-9:30pm 458-5728. Planned Parenthood of the Rochester/ Syracuse Region 114 University Ave., Rochester, NY 14605; Tollfree Helpline: 1-866-600-6886. Planned Parenthood has led the way in providing high quality, affordable reproductive health care since 1916. All services are confidential. Accept most insurances; including Medicaid. You may qualify for low- to no-cost family planning services. When you make your appointment, ask about our sliding scale fees. No one turned away for lack of ability to pay. Women’s Resource Center YWCA, 175 N. Clinton Ave. 546-7740.

The Empty Closet is seeking a volunteer who knows flickr and could spend a few hours a month putting together the EC website photo galleries. Call Susan at 244-9030

AUGUST 2012 • number 459 • gay alliance of the genesee valley • the empty closet

Ongoing Calendar Monday

New Freedom New Happiness AA Gay meeting, 7pm, Unitarian Church, 220 Winton Rd. Men and women. Open. Support Group for Parents who have lost Children First, 3rd Wednesdays, 11am-12:30pm, Third Presbyterian Church, 4 Meigs St. Genesee Region Home Care. Free. 325-1880

Lilac Squares Gay Square Dance Group, Mondays, 7pm, 140 Alex Bar. To reserve space: 467-6456; bdaniels@frontiernet.net. Free syphilis testing AIDS Care, 259 Monroe Ave., 5-8pm. 4422220. Rainbow SAGE Senior Center, 11am-3pm, Gay Alliance Center, 875 E. Main St., 1st floor. Rochester Historical Bowling Society 7:15pm, Mondays. Clover Lanes, 2750 Monroe Ave. (Group is full.) HIV Positive Men’s Support group Every Monday, 5pm, AIDS Care Center for Positive Living, 259 Monroe Ave.

COAP Come Out and Play. Wednesday game nights. 8-11 pm. Equal=Grounds, 750 South Ave. 7pm, paulkaseman@gmail.com.

Occupy Rochester M-F, 4-6 pm, at the Liberty Pole. Born That Way Formerly 3rd Presbyterian LGBT Support Group. First, 3rd Mondays, 7:30-9:30pm, 34 Meigs St. Carol, 482-3832 or Kaara, 654-7516.

Frontrunners/Frontwalkers Mondays, 6pm, George Eastman House parking lot. www.rochesterfrontrunners.org. Steps Beyond Stems Crack Support Group, Mondays, 7-8pm, 289 Monroe Ave. Gay Alliance Library & Archives, David Bohnett Cyber Center Every Monday. 1-3pm; 6-8pm. First floor, 875 E. Main St. 244-8640. Equality Rochester 2nd Mondays, 7-8:30 pm, Equal=Grounds. 426-0862; annetischer1@gmail.com

Tuesday

Rochester Rams General Meeting 2nd Wednesdays, 7:30pm, Bachelor Forum, 670 University Ave. www.rochesterrams.com Brothers Keeper Support group for men over 30. Third Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30pm, MOCHA Center, 107 Liberty Pole Way. 420-1400 HIV+ Mixed Men’s Group Wednesdays, 11:30 am-12:30 pm. AIDS Care, 259 Monroe Ave. Gay Alliance Youth Summer Drop-In Hours Wednesdays, 2-5pm, Gay Alliance Youth Center, 875 E. Main St. Prince St. entrance, first floor. 244-8640 x 13. Frontrunners/Frontwalkers 6pm, Eastman House parking lot. www.rochesterfrontrunners.org. Gay Alliance Library & Archives, David Bohnett Cyber Center Every Wednesday. 6-8pm. First floor, 875 E. Main St. 244-8640. Empire Bears Every Wednesday. 6pm dinner at The Wintonaire. www.empirebears.com

Thursday

Wednesday

Presbyterians for Lesbian and Gay Concerns 6:30pm, first Thursday. Ralph, 271-7649 Queer Radical Reading Group First and third Thursdays, 7pm, Equal=Grounds, 750 South Ave. Pride at Work First Thursdays, 5:30pm. 167 Flanders St. off Thurston Rd. 426-0862. GLOB&L (Gays & Lesbians of Bausch & Lomb). Meets every third Thursday in Area 67 conference room at the Optic Center. Voice mail: 338-8977 Rochester Gay Men’s Chorus Downtown United Presbyterian Church, 121 N. Fitzhugh St. 6:30-9pm, 423-0650 Free confidential walk-in HIV testing Every Thursday night, 5-8pm, AIDS Care, 259 Monroe Ave. 442-2220 MOCHA/Gay Alliance Youth Trans Group First Thursdays, 5-7pm, Gay Alliance Youth Center, 875 E. Main St., 1st floor (Prince St. entrance). 244-8640 ext 13. Out & Equal Second Thursdays Social/business networking, 5:30-7:30pm. Changing venues. E-mail: fingerlakes@outandequal.org

U.R. Pride Network 7:30pm, Gamble Room in Rush Rhees Library. urpride@gmail.com

FRIDAY

Just Us Guys Gay men of all ages. 2nd Tuesdays, 6:30pm, AIDS Care, 259 Monroe Ave. 223-2629 Charlie’s Group 2nd Tuesdays. Monthly peer-facilitated support group for married men who have sex with men. Confidential, free. For time, place: email: charlie@gayalliance.org. Rainbow SAGE Senior Center, 11am-3pm, Gay Alliance Center, 875 E. Main St., 1st floor. MOCHA Youth Drop-In Tues.-Fri., 1-9pm, MOCHA Center, 107 Liberty Pole Way, 420-1400; 244-8640 MOCHA Hepatitis Clinic Free Hepatitis A & B vaccinations, third Tuesdays, 5:30-7pm, 107 Liberty Pole Way, 4201400 Women’s Community Chorus Rehearsals each Tuesday, 6:30-9pm, Downtown United Pres. Church, 121 N. Fitzhugh Street. 234-4441, www.therwcc.org Free HIV Testing 9am-7pm. AIDS Care, 259 Monroe Ave.

Rainbow SAGE Ruby Slippers Wednesdays, 5:45 pm, Callan-Harris Physical Therapy, 1328 Universty Ave. Gay Alliance Board of Directors Meets Third Wednesdays, 6pm, 875 E. Main St. 244-8640

Gay Men's AA meeting Fridays, 7:30-8:30pm, Closed meeting. Emmanuel Baptist Church, 815 Park Ave. GLBTQI Motorcycle Group Second Fridays, 5:30pm, Various locations. RochesterGLBTIQbikers@yahoo.com; 4676456; bmdaniels@frontiernet.net.

L.O.R.A. Potluck & Games Night Fourth Fridays. GAGV Youth Center, 875 E. Main St., 1st floor 6-9:30pm, 585-313-3037; E-mail: info@l-o-r-a.com. http://www.facebook.com/L.O.R.A.14464; www.l-o-r-a.com Womyn’s Drum Circle Fourth Fridays. 6-9:30pm, GAGV Youth Center; E-mail: info@womynsdrumcircle.org; Website: www.womynsdrumcircle.org.

SATURDAY

Rochester Rams Bar Night Third Saturdays, 8pm-2am, Bachelor Forum, 670 University Ave. 271-6930 Rochester Trans Group Social/educational group for gender-variant people, friends. Last Saturdays, 3-5 pm, GAGV Youth Center, first floor, 875 E. Main St. Frontrunners/Frontwalkers 9am, George Eastman House parking lot.www. rochesterfrontrunners.org. Empire Bears Potluck 2nd Saturdays, Youth Center, 875 E. Main, 1st floor, Prince St. entrance. 6:30pm greet; 7pm dinner. Bring dish to pass. www.empirebears.org. Cross Dresser Support Group First Saturdays, 6-9pm, call for location: 251-2132; RCDNET@hotmail.com Guys Night Out Third Saturdays. Social group for transguys. 1pm, Equal=Grounds, 750 South Ave. tguysnightout@gmail.com. Saturday Night Special Gay AA 7pm, Unitarian Church, 220 Winton Rd., S. Men and women. Open meeting. Lilac Rainbow Alliance for the Deaf (LRAD) 2nd Saturdays, 6-9pm. rcoaster@rochester.rr.com Sophia’s Supper Club First and third Saturdays. http://www.inspiritual.biz/online-spiritual-evolution-gro/

Sunday

Parents Families & Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) 3rd Sundays, 1-3pm. Open Arms MCC, 740 Marshall Rd. 244-8640 x 27; pflag@gayalliance.org. Gay Alliance Library & Archives Sunday hours ended. Rochester General Assembly Sundays, Flying Squirrel Community Center, 285 Clarissa St. Unity Fellowship Church Sundays, 1:30 pm, Lutheran Church of Peace, 125 Caroline St., 14620. 520-6188. Dignity-Integrity 1st Sunday: 5pm Episcopal Eucharist with music; 2nd Sunday: 5pm Roman Catholic Liturgy of the Word with music; 3rd Sunday: 5pm Episcopal Eucharist (quiet); 4th Sunday: 5pm Prayers to start the week, followed by potluck supper. Open Arms Metropolitan Community Church 740 Marshall Rd., Chili, 10:30am, 271-8478 Gay Men’s Alcoholics Anonymous St. Luke’s/St. Simon Cyrene Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St. 8:30pm, 232-6720, Weekly. Closed meeting Rainbow SAGE First Sundays: Euchre Club, 3-6pm. Third Sundays, Potluck at First Universalist Church, 150 S. Clinton Ave., 4pm. Men’s Cooking Group Third or fourth Sundays, 355-7664. Civil Rights Front Every Tuesday, 5pm, Equal=Grounds, 750 South Ave. http://www.civilrightsfront.wordpress.com

Rochester AA/NA Meetings Every week there are four regularly scheduled GLBTI AA and two NA meetings in Rochester.

Tuesdays

Narcotics Anonymous 6-7:30pm. AIDS and Recovery 1124 Culver Road (Covenant United Methodist Church) This is an NA meeting that is open to all addicts who have a desire to stop using. Although it is not specifically a gay-oriented meeting, it is welcoming to people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as to anyone who is affected by HIV and AIDS.

Wednesdays

New Freedom/New Happiness Group 7pm. First Unitarian Church, 220 S. Winton Rd. Bus riders: Take the last #18 University bus to 12 Corners. Use the stop just past the top of the hill at Hillside Ave. and before Highland Ave. Or take the #1 Park Ave. to the corner of East and Winton, then walk five minutes south (uphill) on Winton. This is an open discussion meeting. All issues – as they relate to our alcoholism/addiction and recovery – are fair game.

Fridays Gay Men’s 7:30pm. Immanuel Baptist Church, 815 Park Ave. • Closed meeting, restricted to alcoholics and addicts • Men’s meeting • Handicapped accessible This is a round-robin discussion meeting. If you are shy about meeting people or speaking up in a group, you will find this meeting particularly warm and inviting because everyone gets their turn to speak (or pass). As a result, this meeting often runs long, so plan on more than the usual hour.

Saturdays Saturday Night Special 7pm. First Unitarian Church, 220 S. Winton Rd. Bus riders: The #18 University Ave. bus does not go by the church on weekend evenings. Take the #1 Park Ave. bus to the corner of East and Winton, then walk five minutes south (uphill) on Winton. • Open meeting, all are welcome, “straight friendly” • Mixed men and women • Handicapped accessible, take elevator to basement Meeting begins with a speaker, followed by open discussion.

Sundays Step in the Right Direction 7:30-9pm. 1275 Spencerport Road (Trinity Alliance Church) This is an NA meeting that is open to all addicts who have a desire to stop using. Although it is not specifically a gay-oriented meeting, it is welcoming to people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Each week features a reading from NA literature, followed by discussion. Rochester Gay Men 8pm. St. Luke/St. Simon’s Episcopal Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh Street. Bus riders use the Fitzhugh Street stop on Main Street at the County Office Building and walk south one block. • Closed meeting, restricted to alcoholics and addicts • Men’s meeting • NOT handicapped accessible Meeting begins with a speaker, followed by open discussion.

the empty closet • the gay alliance of the genesee valley • number 459 • AUGUST 2012

August 2012 WEDNESDAY 1

Lughnasad. Ancient Celtic crossquarter fire feast of harvest. Through Aug. 2. Sacred tree: hazel.

FRIDAY 3

Registration deadline for Out Loud Out Proud, Youth Summer Camp. Aug. 20-24. For high school students who are already out. Info: Kelly Clark, 244-8640; youth@gayalliance.org. Beth Bloom photo show opening at Gallery@ Equal=Grounds, 750 South Ave., 7-9 pm. Paula Poundstone at Water Street Music Hall. 875 E. Main St. Tickets, info: www.waterstreetmusic.com. Fight With Love. Student musical revue benefiting Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. Geva Nextstage through Aug. 5.

SUNDAY 5

Dignity Integrity. Episcopal Mass/ Healing Service, with music. 5 pm at St. Luke’s and St. Simon’s Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St. Website http://www.dirochester.org/ or call DI Hotline at 585234-5092.

MONDAY 6

Gay Alliance/Rainbow SAGE Senior Center. 11am-3 pm. Picnic Day with indoor bowling. First floor, 875 E. Main St. 244-8640.

TUESDAY 7

Gay Alliance/Rainbow SAGE Senior Center. 11am-3 pm. Movie and popcorn, 1 p.m. Film: “Sunset Story.” First floor, 875 E. Main St. 244-8640.

THURSDAY 9

Out & Equal Second Thursday Networking Event. Constellation Brands, 207 High Point Drive, Building 100, Victor. 5:30-7:30 pm. $10 registration at door.

SATURDAY 11

Women of Color Social Gathering, sponsored by AIDS Care at The Vineyard, 126 Sander St., noon-6 pm. Keynote speaker: Verneda White of Human Intonation. RSVP. by Aug. 1 by contacting Jackie Dozier, minority health initiatives program coordinator, at (585) 210-4126 or via e-mail: jdozier@acRochester.org.

Rochester Butch Femme Connection. Meet 7 pm, Peppermints Diner on West Henrietta Road (Route 15) near Lehigh Station Road in Henrietta. Info: (585) 288-7208, email DressyFemme@ aol.com or Facebook page http://www. facebook.com/bfconnection.

SUNDAY 12

Dignity Integrity. Roman Catholic Liturgy of the Word, with music. 5 pm at St. Luke’s and St. Simon’s Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St. Website http://www.dirochester.org/ or call DI Hotline at 585234-5092.

MONDAY 13

Rochester Butch Femme Connection. Meet at Hibachi Sushi Buffet in Southtown Plaza on Jefferson Road in Henrietta at 7 pm,

SUNDAY 26

Dignity Integrity. Evening Prayer, followed by a Potluck Supper. Pot Luck Theme: “Cool as a Cucumber.” Dinner in Lawyers’ Co-op Park, on the river across from Convention Center on Main St. Service 5 pm at St. Luke’s and St. Simon’s Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St. Website http:// www.di-rochester.org/ or call DI Hotline at 585-234-5092. Rainbow SAGE Picnic. King’s Bend Park, North Lodge, 170 West Jefferson Road, Pittsford. 12:30 pm. Bring dish to pass.

MONDAY 27

Gay Alliance/Rainbow SAGE Senior Center. 11 am-3 pm. National Creamsicle Day, 11 am. First floor, 875 E. Main St. 244-8640.

TUESDAY 28

TUESDAY 14

WEDNESDAY 15

Empty Closet deadline for September issue. 244-9030; susanj@gayalliance. org.

Gay Alliance/Rainbow SAGE Senior Center. 11am-3 pm. Whip up some banana smoothies at 1 pm. First floor, 875 E. Main St. 244-8640. Gay Alliance/Rainbow SAGE Senior Center. 11am-3 pm. Dream Day. Come ready to write down and share your dreams. 1 pm: make “dream big” cards for the children at Golisano Children’s Hospital. Bring any card making supplies you may have.

SUNDAY 19

THURSDAY 30

MONDAY 20

Friday 31

Dignity Integrity. Quiet Episcopal Mass in the Chapel. 5 pm at St. Luke’s and St. Simon’s Church, 17 S. Fitzhugh St. Website http://www.di-rochester.org/ or call DI Hotline at 585-234-5092. Gay Alliance/Rainbow SAGE Senior Center. 11am-3 pm. Field Trip to Barnes & Noble, Lunch Outing at Friendly’s ($5.29-7.99 + tax and tip includes ice cream). Meet at Auditorium Parking lot 11 am, transportation provided courtesy of AIDS Care. Return by 2:45 pm. Out Loud Out Proud: Youth Summer Camp. Through Aug. 24, 9 am-3:30 pm.

TUESDAY 21

National Senior Citizens Day Gay Alliance/Rainbow SAGE Senior Center. 11 am-3 pm. Lunch with GAGV Youth. Join youth at 11 am in Community Room to talk about history, then enjoy lunch (bring a bagged lunch). Leave 12:30 by van provided by AIDS Care to

Classified ads are $5 for the first 30 words; each additional 10 words is another $1. We do not bill for classifieds, so please send or bring ad and payment to: The Empty Closet, 875 E. Main Street, Suite 500, Rochester, NY 14605. Paying by check: checks must be made out to Gay Alliance or GAGV. The deadline is the 15th of the month, for the following month’s issue. We cannot accept ads over the phone. Pay when you place your ad. We will accept only ads accompanied by name and phone number. Neither will be published, but we must be able to confirm placement. The Empty Closet is not responsible for financial loss or physical injury that may result from any contact with an advertiser. Advertisers must use their own box number, voice mail, e-mail or personal address/phone number.

Rochester’s Best Man to Man Rubdown. Unwind with this degreed, employed, fit, friendly, healthy, Italian GWM. Middle aged, 5’8”, 165 lbs., 32” waist, nonsmoker, d & d free, HIV negative. My 10-plus years experience guarantees your relaxation and satisfaction. Hotel visit, in call in my home or out call in your residence. Reasonable rates. Discretion appreciated and practiced. Don’t delay, call me today at 585-773-2410 (cell) or 585-235-6688 (home) or e-mail me at: magichands@rochester.rr.com. Hate to paint or clean gutters? I have tall ladders! Dale’s Pleasure Painting & Gutter Cleaning has very reasonable rates

SATURDAY 25

Gay Alliance/Rainbow SAGE Senior Center. 11am-3 pm. Kidney Foundation Presentation, 1 pm. First floor, 875 E. Main St. 244-8640.

Classifieds SERVICES

Planetarium, 657 East Ave. (cost $3 paid in advance, so we need head count by Aug. 14.)

for painting year round and gutter cleaning in the spring or fall. 585-576-5042. Email dale.furlong@yahoo.com. Martin Ippolito master electrician. Electrical work, telephone jacks, cable TV, burglar alarm systems, paddle fans. 585-266-6337. World renowned weddings. 42 years performing same sex commitments, now marriages (it’s about time!). Nancy BB Meyer minister, God is Love-Animals are Angels ministry. 585-733-6213. Piano lessons, all ages and levels. Are you getting married? I’d love to play for your event. Contact Frank Verna III, (585)544-6799, frankmelisma@yahoo. com.

Angels in America: Perestroika. Opening. Runs through Sept. 9 at Geva Nextstage, 75 Woodbury Blvd. Tickets start at $25. Reservations: (585) 232GEVA (4382), www.gevatheatre.org. Deadline for grant applications for non-profits from the LGBT Giving Circle. www.racf.org/LGBT

AUGUST 2012 • number 459 • gay alliance of the genesee valley • the empty closet

Bed & Breakfast

PFLAG meets the 3rd Sunday of each month. Meetings are at Open Arms Metropolitan Community Church, 740 Marshall Road, Rochester 14624 from 1 to 3pm. Join us! Questions? Call: 585-244-8640 and leave a message, or e-mail: pflag@gayalliance.org

Seeking

sex

in the park?

MAKE

MONEY

The Gay Alliance is seeking a reliable, energetic self-starter to sell Empty Closet advertising for a generous commission. For more information, phone Susan Jordan at 244-9030 or e-mail: susanj@gayalliance.org

the empty closet • the gay alliance of the genesee valley • number 459 • AUGUST 2012