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In THis Issue september 2013 - Volume 1, Issue 9 1 Cover
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2 donaldsons subaru 3 In this issue 4 letter from the editor 5 Mejias, Milgram and Alverado 6 in the news: national
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
7 in the news: interNational 8 Out on LI: the family redrawn 10 thatched cottage 12 hotel indigo 13 ligaly national coming out day campaign
16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
15 hamptons glbt center opens 16 tv reviews 18 emmy predictions 19 free 20 calendar of events 22 Be Scene: Photo spread
24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
24 living healthy: beat back to school blues 26 living healthy: honey heals 27 travel: Vancouver 28 fashion: know your knits 29 bethpage fcu
32 33 34 35 36
Living Out is produced by The Long Island Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Services Network with support from Morey Publishing, LLC.
30 living smart: fall staycation 31 huntington bay dental 33 points of view 35 op ed 36 li glbt expo
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David Kilmnick, Publisher info@livingoutli.org Meryl Lumba, editor editor@livingoutli.org Jeff Main, Art Director art@livingoutli.org Jonathan chenkin, Advertising advertising@livingoutli.org Contributors Joey Amato, Matthew Ambrosio, Dr. Bill Blazey, Mike Canestraro, Rev. Irene Monroe, Rachel Roth, Laurie Segal, Gregg Shapiro, Gwen Smith, Andy Stern, Cindy Viera
get published! Want to join our team as a monthly contributor? We’re looking for talented writers and photographers to get involved in Long Island’s newest GLBT publication!
apply to be a contributor Email editor@livingoutli.org! LIVING OUT
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Letter from the Editor As the summer breeze cools and the leaves change color, I can’t help but be reminded of school. A student at heart, I admit I miss that excitement: seeing classmates again, learning new things, sharing summer stories, and getting ready for winter. While I am lucky enough to look back happily on these formative experiences of my youth, many are not as fortunate. Bullying in schools is a national epidemic, one that Long Island is unfortunately not immune to. For the September issue, Living Out explores Long Island Gay and Lesbian Youth’s (LIGALY) National Coming Out Day School Awareness Campaign and its significance in organizing tens of thousands of GLBT and allied youth and educators that “come out” each year for safer schools (pg. 12). Most notable in the September issue is our exclusive local look at Long Island same-sex couples and GLBT parents raising children and changing the face of families across our region (p. 8). These parents are not only challenging traditional family dynamics but also greatly contributing to our local communities by raising educated and open-minded children. For many, myself included, the autumn months are a fun time of picking out scarves, ordering one too many pumpkin spice lattes, and buttoning up a cardigan. This issue also reminds you to pamper yourself, whether you’re planning a fall stay-cation (p. 34), looking to get out of town for a few days (might we suggest Vancouver? p. 31) or updating your wardrobe (p. 32). We also welcome some of the most dedicated activists across the country as our very own Long Island GLBT Center hosts more than 100 to the CenterLink National Executive Director and Board Leadership Summit (pg. 15).
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Share your thoughts. Email: editor@livingoutli.org Meryl Lumba, Editor
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RSVP ONLINE AT LIGLBTNETWORK.ORG BY SEPTEMBER 27.
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In the news national News
Gay men arrested under invalid law
By Rachel Roth
Gay men in Louisiana are in danger of being arrested for consensual sex under an invalid sodomy law. According to The Advocate, at least a dozen men since 2011 have fallen victim to an undercover East Baton Rouge Parish operation to ensnare men who “discussed or agreed to have consensual sex with an undercover agent.” The US Supreme Court struck down the anti-sodomy law a decade ago, and District Attorney Hillar Moore III told The Advocate that his office refused to prosecute the cases because he found no crime had occurred. Moore went on to say that he intends to meet with Sheriff’s Office investigators to discuss the implications of the Supreme Court ruling.
Gay troops may get leave to marry Under a proposal being considered by the Pentagon, same-sex spouses of military members could get health care, housing, and other benefits. The Defense Department is addressing provisions for gay and lesbian military personnel regarding temporary leave
in order to get married.
According to a memo obtained by the Associated Press, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel informed top defense leaders that those wishing to get married may have leave up to 10 days so that they may travel to a
state that allows same-sex marriages.
“As the Supreme Court’s ruling has made it possible for same-sex couples to marry and be afforded all benefits available to any military spouse and family, I have determined, consistent
with the unanimous advice of the members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, that the spousal and family benefits far outweigh the benefits that could be extended under a declaration system,” Hagel wrote.
Gender-nonconforming host sues Television network
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B. Scott, a transgender correspondent for Black Entertainment Television (BET), is suing the network’s parent company, Viacom, for discrimination, wrongful termination, and distress.
“conservative” men’s suit, put her long hair back in a ponytail, and not to wear heels. She claims that even after she complied, she was replaced with another correspondent.
Scott alleges that at last month’s BET Awards she was told to change her outfit to a more
BET apologized in a statement to the press, calling the whole incident mere “miscommunication,”
but Scott dubbed it a “nonapology.” “Let’s be clear–I’m suing BET and Viacom for a true public apology and to be fairly remunerated for the time lost, humiliation, and emotional distress this entire situation has put me through,” she explained on her website.
Three New Mexico Counties Issue Samesex Marriage Licenses In late August, Santa Fe County ordered an issuing of same-sex marriage licenses– and a clerk in the southern part of the state decided to issue them independently of any court ruling. Under Bernalillo County Judge Alan Malott, a total of three counties in New Mexico will hand out same-sex marriage licenses. They are still unsure of how the ruling would affect the remaining 30 counties that have not issued the same-sex marriage licenses.
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international News
In the news
By Rachel Roth
Russian laws problematic for 2014 Olympics The upcoming Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia are drawing ire across the US due to the country’s Draconian anti-gay legislation, which passed in June. The law was against the “propaganda of nontraditional sexual relations,” with a unanimous 436 vote by parliament members in favor of the law. The law also imposes fines of up to $31,000 for providing information about the GLBT community to minors, for holding Pride and human rights events, and for comparing same-sex and different-sex relationships in any fashion. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has already announced that the Pride House, which is exclusively for GLBT athletes and their families, will not be in the Olympic Village in
attack on Montenegro Pride Montenegro’s first-ever Pride event was marred by violent antiGLBT protests. According to the Associated Press, several hundred people threw rocks and bottles and shouted “kill the gays.” Police intervened, detaining more than 20 people, and the event was ultimately able to continue. While Interior Minister Rasko Konjevic praised the police for preventing “more serious clashes,” the incident might block Budva’s bid to become part of the European Union.
an effort to protect gay and lesbian athletes. Additionally, IOC President Jacques Rogge said while the Russian government provided written re-assurances that the anti-GLBT propaganda law will not apply to the Olympics, some elements are “still too unclear to pass judgment.” Cause for concern are the comments made by Russian Sports Minister Vitaly Mutko, who insisted that Olympic athletes would “have to respect the laws of the country” during the Sochi Games.
New Zealand Legalizes Gay Marriage On April 17th, New Zealand’s House of Representatives passed legislation (Marriage Amendment Act) to legalize same-sex marriages, effective August 19th. Just last week, New Zealand’s department of international affairs said that around 1,000 marriage applications were downloaded, 170 of which were from neighboring countries. New Zealand is the 13th country to allow same-sex marriage.
DeAr guys who like guys And GALS who like gAls, life, liberty And the pursuit of hAppiness begAn with Me.
P.S. Get your history strAight And your nightlife gAy.
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The Family
Now more than ever, no two Long Island families look alike. More and more same-sex couples and GLBT parents are having children and forming families. Read on as gay and lesbian locals share their stories: their journeys, their triumphs, and their hardships. BY MERYL LUMBA Photographs by Amanda L. Montana
LaurieAnn and Heather Norwood Farmingville resident LaurieAnn Norwood is passionate about educating and empowering couples during their journey into parenthood: in listening to her enthusiasm, it is evident that LaurieAnn speaks from personal experience. LaurieAnn and her wife, Heather, have been together eight years; the two met online and after dating three years decided to tie the knot and got legally married. During their engagement, the topic of children came up, and both women knew they wanted to have kids at a young age. They decided to start a family in 2006. “We actually kept the fertility process to ourselves,” LaurieAnn remarked. Their process was particularly special, as both women were planning on being pregnant simultaneously, and they wanted to wait until they were both pregnant before telling their respective families. When they had announced their first pregnancy, their families were both excited and supportive. “Their reactions are something we will remember forever,” she reminisced. 8
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“All of that stress quickly vanishes when you see those two pink lines on the pregnancy test!” home mom, will be homeschooling their three children while planning to expose them to homeschool groups and events that are welcoming of all families. “When [discrimination] comes up, we plan to use communication and education as our tools of defense,” she remarked. “We are raising our boys to be confident and proud of who they are and where they come from.”
Unfortunately, their journey into parenthood was met with other challenges. She and Heather had a total of two inseminations and five in vitro fertilization (IVF) transfers in order to get pregnant with just their first-born, Ryan, who is now 3 and a half years old. In addition, the two had both suffered miscarriages before Heather became pregnant again in 2011–this time, with twins.
required extensive medical help. Sadly, after three days, their first twin, Parker, passed away. Today the surviving twin, Zachary, is a healthy 2-year-old. “Losing Parker was the hardest thing either of us have ever faced,” LaurieAnn shared. “He holds a special place in our hearts, and we miss him so deeply every single day.”
“It was extremely draining– emotionally, mentally, and physically,” LaurieAnn stated. “[But] all of that quickly vanishes when you see those two pink lines on the pregnancy test!”
Later the two had another addition to their family: their youngest son, Oliver, is only 10 months old and genetically Heather’s though LaurieAnn carried him. This meant a personal dream came true for LaurieAnn: “I have always wanted to carry my wife’s baby, and it’s so exciting that we were able to do that!”
Heather went into labor prematurely at 27 weeks into gestation. The twin boys were born an hour and 15 minutes apart, weighing only a little over two pounds each. Both boys
Ryan, who LaurieAnn carried, is almost four and preparing for school. When asked what her plans were in terms of schooling, LaurieAnn stated that she and Heather, who is a stay-at-
LaurieAnn also shared that Ryan is already starting to observe that some families are different than his own. She noted that she and Heather choose to not shelter their sons from different families, teaching them with the hopes that different-sex families are doing the same for same-sex families. “Our children are raised in a loving home by two parents who are committed to one another,” LaurieAnn stated. “Our children will be well-rounded, well-adjusted, and well-educated, loving people not because we are a two-mom family, but because we are raising them with love and respect.” When asked what advice she would give same-sex couples who wanted to start a family, LaurieAnn simply remarked, “just start.” “Since the journey to parenthood is very calculated for same-sex couples, waiting for the right time is impossible.” You also don’t know how long it will take to have a baby in your arms,” LaurieAnn shared. “For many, it takes [a long] time.”
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Manny and Jose Velasquez-Paredes Seeing parenthood as a long and daunting process certainly holds true for Manny Velasquez-Paredes. Manny and his partner, Jose, who met online eight years ago, live in Calverton. The two were looking to plan something to do after work one evening and happened to notice that Long Island Gay and Lesbian Youth (LIGALY) offered free parenting classes for people hoping to adopt children. The two had always talked about having a family, and after the first class, began to attend all the sessions to become certified foster parents through You Gotta Believe!, allowing them to be certified foster parents by the state of New York. Both Manny and Jose, who work for different departments at the New York State Department of Labor, shared that though all of the pieces fell into the right order for them, they were met with some resistance by their loved ones. “We had some relatives and friends who couldn’t understand our need
Upon waiting for an inspection before getting certified, Manny stated that they had received a phone call that changed their lives: a couple they had known experienced tremendous personal issues and called Manny and Jose to take their baby boy, Max, who had just turned 13 months, while the child’s 3-year-old sister, Jaslene, went to a relative. Max was barely able to sit or move easily due to severe neglect, and Manny and Jose taught him to sit, stand, and walk in less than a month. About a month and a half later, Jaslene came to live with them, too.
“I’m still in awe. It hits me–I’m a dad.” to be parents. Perhaps their own insecurities or prejudices redirected them away from this new journey we were embarking on,” Manny shared, “[but] we have plenty of friends and family who have been behind us the entire process and have helped us to achieve the dream of being a family.”
Even two years later, Manny is still in awe. “It hits me–I’m a dad. Holy crap. I am in charge of assisting these children grow up and become productive members of society.” Though Manny and Jose are helping raise their two children, they feel that the foster care system could feel slow. “We are still in that process, and
it can be overwhelming at times […] if Jose and I are truly the best parents for these two kids, then they will become our adopted children.” In the meantime, Manny also added that he and his partner have had positive experiences thus far with the school system. “If we were to be discriminated by administration and staff, we would handle it directly with the Board of Education,” Manny stated. He also acknowledged that there may be issues with his children’s peers, and continues to teach them how to confront such issues with a positive and polite resolve. Manny remarked that he and Jose are also preparing to have conversations with their children about the topic of
“non-traditional” families, backing their decision with the firm belief that children should be informed with the ability to make up their own minds. “In the end what matters is that they are loved by two people who would do anything for them. What is considered a ‘traditional’ environment?” Ultimately, Manny and Jose feel that a couple needs to be ready, stating that raising children is a full-time job, and that readiness allows for the couple to survive through numerous challenges a child can bring. “I just want our children to be happy and healthy–and to become the best leaders they can be in whatever path they choose,” Manny remarked. CONTINUED ON PAGE 11
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out on li Jennifer Dukoff Jennifer Dukoff of Bay Shore shared the same sentiment. Jennifer, who is a single parent, beamed with pride that her daughter, Hannah, has known she wanted to be a doctor since she was 2 years old. “All the dolls in the house are patients. They all have bandages, casts, and are taken very good care of by Dr. Hannah,” Jennifer said. Since Jennifer performs ultrasounds for high-risk pregnancy, she had a copious amount of access to information, doctors, and testing, making her quite familiar with the process of starting a family. Jennifer is also a co-organizer of a gay parents group on Long Island called Lesbian & Gay Parents & Families of Long Island, a social group for gay parents and their children. She also remarked that reaching out to other gay couples who have gone through the parenthood process is a helpful resource in getting insight. Although she had always known that motherhood was going to be a natural choice for her since her youth, Jennifer shared that it was still an emotional process.
“Becoming a parent in the ‘non-traditional’ way requires a lot...and every step of the process can be exciting and stressful.”
“Becoming a parent in the ‘nontraditional’ way requires a lot of planning and preparation and money–and every step of the process can be exciting and stressful,” Jennifer replied. At 37 years old, Jennifer (now 42) had her daughter (who is now 4 and a half ) and decided two and a half years ago to post an entry on the Donor Sibling Registry in order to locate any siblings Hannah may have. “I felt that it would be a natural
process for her as it is for many donor-conceived people to search for siblings–and I didn’t want her to look back 15 or 30 years to either not find them or play catch-up for a whole life,” Jennifer shared. The registry found a match: a little boy only three weeks younger than Hannah. As of today, they spent the past two and a half years as a family, with seeing each other a few times a year, using Skype and the Internet, and sending packages. “It has been an amazing journey, one I feel blessed to be on,” Jennifer reminisced, “I know Hannah and her brother love one another–and for that, my mommy-heart melts.” This year, they also learned that there is a little girl in Australia who is their sister, and they hope to maintain a relationship with her as well.
Though the process was “nontraditional,” Jennifer noted that she thinks the world is changing–and that there are many kinds of families for many different reasons. When it came to Hannah, who is going to start Kindergarten this September, Jennifer adhered to her philosophy that it is the guardian’s responsibility to educate the teachers about the child’s situation. She is teaching her daughter about various family dynamics and continues planning to address each question with honesty and confidence.
causes issues for children, Jennifer said that all the research shows that children with same-sex parents can be well-adjusted, just like any other child: growing up with a gay or lesbian parent neither puts a child in a risk category nor gives the child a lesser chance of being well-adjusted than a child raised in a “traditional” home.
“After all, love is all you need,” Jennifer remarked.
“I would tell the naysayers that love, lots of hugs, proper modeling, respect, good parenting, and constant involvement in one’s child’s life makes a good environment, and has less to do with what the genders and sexual orientation of the parent(s) or guardian is.”
When asked what she would say to people who believe that raising a child in a “non-traditional” environment
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT GLBT PARENTING, SUPPORT FOR GLBT PARENTS, OR RESOURCES IN STARTING A FAMILY, VISIT WWW.LIGLBTNETWORK.ORG.
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ligaly youth and volunteers cut and fold ribbons all summer in preparation for the campaign. The ribbons, along with palm cards and posters (below), are sent to schools across LI.
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LIGALY Gears up For
National Coming Out Day: Oct. 11 Last year, over 60,000 Long Island students donned rainbow ribbons and ally stickers as they participated in Long Island Gay and Lesbian Youth’s (LIGALY) 11th Annual National Coming Out Day (NCOD) School Awareness Campaign, making it the largest campaign since LIGALY began organizing it in 2002. Since 1993, LIGALY’s Safe Schools Initiative
and to those that have never considered speaking up. Those who have never considered being an ally are finally gaining the awareness they need in order to “come out” to support a cause they were once afraid of backing. “LIGALY’s National Coming Out Day Campaign is so important for youth–to have [that] opportunity to ‘come out’
National Coming Out Day is a day that youth know is safe to express who they are or what they support. has worked with more than 100 of Long Island’s 127 public school districts to develop a school culture that fosters support, understanding, and respect for GLBT youth, families, and educators. In lieu of recent events that have empowered the GLBT community, such as the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) being struck down, the youth are excited to launch this year’s campaign. LIGALY’s Youth Organizing and Leadership Coordinator, Jenilee Dowling, believes that the Campaign appeals to both people who identify as GLBT and allies–
in any way they need to in order to help them on their path to healthy adulthood,” Dowling remarked. “Just the existence of National Coming Out Day and the idea of having a specific day that youth know is a safe day to express who they are or what they support means a lot to youth everywhere–regardless of if they choose to actually ‘come out’ on that day or not.” LIGALY’S NCOD Campaign calls on an entire school community to “come out” as advocates of safer schools: to help reduce levels of GLBT-related harassment and bullying. The Campaign encourages
participants to make a statement and show their support of GLBT students by wearing a rainbow pin or ally sticker. LIGALY provides free campaign kits to participating schools that include the ribbons and stickers, as well as campaign posters and palm cards and a resource guide to assist students in implementing the campaign. Each year, the materials for the campaign are developed by LIGALY’s Safe Schools Team, a group of student leaders who are provided with specialized education and training to address antiGLBT bullying in schools. LIGALY also provides free on-site training for student organizations hosting the Campaign. This year, the LIGALY Advisory board (LAB), a youth leadership group that meets every
Monday from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. at the GLBT Center at Bay Shore, is planning to have a special themed “OUTlet” that evening. In celebration of NCOD, LAB is planning a party called “National Coming OUTlet” on October 11th from 8 p.m.-12 a.m. This OUTlet invites youth to socialize with other youth who also participated in NCOD at their schools and to engage in activities in which they can tell their coming out stories in a safe space if they wish to do so.
ligaly’s national coming out day school awareness campaign is friday, october 11. learn more & get involved at ligaly.org.
2nd largest glbt event of the year...
Date: Sunday, Sept. 29 When: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Where: Hilton Long Island, Huntington What: Over 100 booths of GLBT-friendly businesses!
long island glbt expo! The Long Island GLBT Expo returns to Melville, Long Island for its 5th year on Sunday, September 29 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Hilton Long Island. The event will allow for
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attendees to interact with a wide variety of over 100 businesses, services, and community groups, all while enjoying live entertainment, free giveaways, and informational workshops.
In past years, thousands of GLBT and allied Long Islanders have come to the Expo to connect with affirming businesses and services, and this year an estimated 5,000 are expected to attend.
Businesses looking to participate or sponsor the event are encouraged to contact 516.323.0011 or learn more online at www.liglbtnetwork.org.
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LI GLBT Network CEO makes the
POWERLIST On June 25th, The Long Island Press held their 11th annual Power List event, honoring and commending 50 Long Island leaders who have considerable influence over daily life on Long Island.
The Long Island Press said in recognizing David Kilmnick: “This local gay and lesbian rights advocate has come a long way in his 20 years of combating homophobia. Kilmnick has expanded what started as Long Island Gay and Lesbian Youth (LIGALY) in the ’90s into the regional Long Island GLBT Services Network, which outgrew its Bay Shore community center, opened a satellite facility in Garden City two years ago, and announced that this summer a third center is set to debut
in the Hamptons. He’s also recently made headlines organizing the nation’s first LGBT PTA. He has long since proven himself to be an effective leader dedicated to political advocacy, to helping senior members of the LGBT community and to annually providing more than 25,000 Long Islanders with health and social services.”
LI GLBT Network Launches Video Project this Fall Call Now for a Free Consultation
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Beginning this fall, the Long Island GLBT Services Network plans to launch a video series called “Out on Long Island,” where thousands of Long Island’s GLBT and allied community, spread across 120 miles of Long Island, are living out and making a difference. GLBT and allied Long Islanders who want to share their story will be featured on The Network’s video channel and Living Out. If interested, please contact info@liglbtnetwork.org and in two to three paragraphs, share what being OUT on Long Island means to you. There is no deadline to apply for this project, but early submissions are strongly encouraged. For questions, call 516.323.0011.
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out on li
The Hamptons GLBT Center 44 Union Street Sag Harbor, NY 11963
tel 631.899.4950 fax 631.665.7874 web liglbtnetwork.org
The Hamptons GLBT Center Opens Third Center on LI Draws Large Crowd Before August 10th, GLBT members and allies alike seeking community, support, or other resources would have to travel over 60 miles to The Center at Bay Shore– or have no where to turn to at all. After months of planning and fundraising, The Long Island Services Network took the first step in delivering vital resources to the East End community by celebrating the Grand Opening of The Hamptons
GLBT Center in Sag Harbor, the first of its kind for the East End. Edie Windsor, victor in the landmark case overturning the Defense of Marriage Act, welcomed over 350 guests and shared her excitement in the Center’s creation. Following her remarks, The Long Island Services Network’s CEO, David Kilmnick, and President of the East Hampton GSA
Joel Johnson, also shared how crucial the Center will be to thousands of GLBT and allied Long Islanders. Also in attendance was David Hernandez Barrios’ family: David was the 16-yearold East Hampton teen who committed suicide in October 2012 after enduring anti-GLBT bullying. His death was a sad and urgent reminder, said Kilmnick, that
GLBT services are critically needed all across the island. The Hamptons GLBT Center will offer programs and activities for youth, adults, and families. The Center anticipates over 1,000 local East End residents to participate and seek their services.
turn to page 22 for photos from the ribbon cutting and celebration
LI GLBT Center to Host National GLBT Conference
Your Direct Source
On September 19th, GLBT Community Center Executive Directors and Board Members from across the United States and Canada are headed to Garden City as The Long Island GLBT Community Center will host the 7th Annual CenterLink Executive Director and Board Leadership summit. CenterLink, the national organization representing over 200 GLBT Community september 19-21, 2013 Centers in the United States, coordinates the conference each year, sharing strategies and building the GLBT Center movement. Summit attendees will participate in a variety of workshops, keynotes, and discussions on topics including fundraising, operations, program development, and more. The summit brings together a diverse group of GLBT centers, which range from large multi-service organizations to all-volunteer community initiatives. The 2013 summit also marks the first time the gathering will take place in a suburban region. “People often think of GLBT Community Centers as urban organizations, but critical and groundbreaking work is being done in suburban and rural regions throughout the United States,” said David Kilmnick, CEO of The Long Island GLBT Services Network and Board Co-Chair of CenterLink. “We are thrilled to show off the great things happening in Long Island’s GLBT Community to our partners across the country.”
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out and about
tv review
by gregg shapiro
Screen Savor: Damaged Goods 1 Web Therapy: The Second Season Of all the former Friends cast members, Lisa Kudrow has probably had the most daring career. And she’s definitely had the most gay-positive one! From the campy Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion to overtly queer features such as All Over The Guy, Easy A, The Opposite of Sex, and Happy Endings (both directed by out filmmaker Don Roos), among others, Kudrow is a true friend of the community. Her latest project, Showtime’s Web Therapy, is based and expands on the online series featuring Kudrow as unaccredited therapist, Fiona Wallice, who sees patients via Skype. This premise sets up a variety of comedic events all handled with shocking detachment by Fiona, who is in greater need of a therapist’s couch than her clients. Working once again under director Roos, the series is co-written by Kudrow, Roos and Dan Bucatinsky (Roos’ husband, who also co-stars as Fiona’s bumbling assistant, Jerome, and can also be seen as a gay character in ABC’s Scandal). Fiona’s queer husband
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Kip (out actor Victor Garber) has political aspirations that could potentially be destroyed by a scandal involving his confusion over the gender of potential lover Robin (Julie Claire) and his intimate relationship with campaign manager Ben (gay comedian Michael McDonald). Zillionaire media mogul Austen (out actor Alan Cummings), who is bankrolling Kip’s campaign, has Kip sent to a de-gaying program run by flighty sex-bomb Camilla (Meryl Streep) and her ex-gay husband. You can probably guess how that goes.
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2 Damages: The Final Season In the final season of the suspenseful cable legal series, Damages, ruthless attorney Patty Hewes (Glenn Close) may have finally met her match. Patty’s granddaughter Catherine (Kiley Liddell), whom Patty is raising, reminds her in the first couple of minutes of the season opener that she is “no
2 one’s mommy.” Not to mention former employee (and rival) Ellen (Rose Byrne), who “knows things” and wants to “hurt” Patty. Ellen has volunteered to testify against Patty in the child custody case. Through a series of gruesome and ominous flashbacks, we already know that Ellen is dead (or is she?). Damages fluidly moves back and forth from the present to the past, filling in the blanks and leaving plenty of blanks to be filled. Leverage, corruption, betrayal, revenge, paranoia, manipulation, familial obligation, and “playing outside the lines” all play parts in Damages’ intricate
plot structure. An unfortunate, and ultimately devastating, mishap involving investment banker Naomi (Jenna Elfman) and whistle-blowing blog operator Channing (Ryan Phillippe), adds an additional dimension of tension to the already taut series. After Patty meets with Channing, she turns down the job, recommending Ellen instead, potentially pitting Patty against Ellen in yet another arena. The addition of Kate (Close’s Albert Nobbs co-star Janet McTeer), a person from Patty’s past who could potentially go to work “for the other side,” simply ups the ante.
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HISTORIC LANDMARK THEATER | SUPPER CLUB | LIVE PERFORMANCE
Laughter Saves Lives! September 14, 8pm
On stage at The Suffolk Theater 631-727-4343
Ladies of Laughter Saturday Supper Club September 28, 8pm
suffolktheater.comedy PLAN YO UR VACATION TODAY Cruise to Paradise
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Cruise One 1/2 [Living Out-Parents with Pride].indd 1
• On Board Spending Credits up to $500.00 on most cruises • Free Cabin Upgrades on most bookings • Discounted Shore Excursions available • Complimentarily Dinner for two in one of the Specialty restaurants onboard your ship (ask for details)
Jonathan & Beth Turman CruiseOne Luxury Vacation Specialist
(877) 394-7605 (516) 686-9015 LIVING OUT
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5/23/13 7:28 AM
out and about
television
by meryl lumba
Emmy Predictions
The 65th Annual Emmys premieres Sunday, September 22nd at 8PM EST.
Lead Actor, Drama Our prediction – Breaking Bad: Bryan Cranston This sulky, nice-guy chemistry teacher turned methmaking kingpin has taken audiences on a huge character transformation. Cranston knows he’s the one who knocks.
Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series Our prediction – Game of Thrones: The Rains of Castamere Because the incredibly traumatizing Red Wedding was as beautifully and artfully done as it could be.
Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series
Our prediction – Modern Family: Arrested
Lead Actress, Drama
Our prediction – Mad Men: Elisabeth Moss
Lead Actress, Comedy Our prediction – 30 Rock: Tina Fey Liz Lemon lives in our hearts–long after the series finale in January.
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Lead Actor, Comedy
Our prediction – The Big Bang Theory: Jim Parsons No one is as unintentionally, simultaneously funny and insulting as Sheldon, played by gay actor Jim Parsons.
Outstanding Comedy Series
Our prediction – Modern Family It’s modern, it’s campy, it’s heartwarming.
Outstanding Variety Series Our prediction – The Colbert Report Who doesn’t love a daily, quippy pundit?
Outstanding Miniseries
Our prediction – American Horror Story: Asylum Though not as scary as its first season, Asylum was still beautiful and thoughtprovoking, asking audiences what “evil” truly is.
Reality Program
Our prediction – MythBusters Fun, daring, and informative, MythBusters has many more of a myth to expose.
Drama Series
Our prediction – Breaking Bad
Animated Program Our prediction – The Simpsons
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Quality Healthcare Services for Individuals with Special Needs and the Community at Large
Audiology *Dental *Dermatology *Endocrinology *Gynecology *Neurology Occupational Therapy *Optometry *Rehabilitative Medicine *Physical Therapy Podiatry *Primary Care *Psychiatry *Psychotherapy *Speech Therapy
Comprehensive and Caring Medical Services Lunchtime, Evening & Weekend Hours Medicare, Medicaid, and Some Major Health Insurance Plans Accepted Sliding Scale Available for those Eligible Most Credit Cards Accepted
Family Wellness Center
120 Plant Avenue Hauppauge, NY 11788 Appointments: (631) 851-3810 www.familyres.org fwcinfo@familyres.org
You are not alone, you are…FREE To Be FREE TO BE is a group that provides a safe, friendly environment for people to explore their sexuality, socialize, make new friends, and have the support of their community.
“Disability Is A Matter Of Perception. If You Can Do Just One Thing Well, You Are Needed By Someone” -Martina Navratilova
Socialization/Group Meetings Meetings are open to anyone interested in joining FREE TO BE who are GLBT, questioning and gay-straight alliance. Meetings Include Guest Speakers, Event Planning, Open Discussion, and Social Events Next Meeting Date: September 24, 2013 Time: 4:30pm to 6:00pm Location: FREE, 191 Bethpage-Sweet Hollow Road l Old Bethpage, New York 11804 To learn more about FREE TO BE or to become a member, please contact us at freetobe@familyres.org Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. 191 Bethpage-Sweet Hollow Road l Old Bethpage, New York 11804 www.familyres.org l 516-870-1637
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show your pride
calendar of events Have an event your organization wants listed here? Email editor@livingoutli.org!
Movie & Discussion: At Liberty Wednesday, September 9, 7-8:30 p.m. The Center at Bay Shore, 34 Park Ave., Bay Shore Enjoy this one-woman Tony AwardWinning Show, At Liberty, in which Elaine Stritch celebrates an amazing 50-year career both on stage and on screen.
Transgender Community Roundtable Tuesday, September 10, 7-8 p.m. The Hamptons GLBT Center, 44 Union St., Sag Harbor Be an active voice to strengthen the East End community. Trans-identified and allied people are encouraged to participate in this discussion to identify potential programs.
Movie & Discussion: The Celluloid Closet Tuesday, September 17, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The Center at Garden City, 400 Garden City Plaza, Suite 110, Garden City A documentary that gathers clips from dozens of mainstream Hollywood films to illustrate how the movies have dealt explicitly, and implicitly, with GLBT themes.
Parents of GLBT People Community Roundtable Tuesday, September 17, 7-8 p.m. The Hamptons GLBT Center, 44 Union St., Sag Harbor All parents and caregivers of GLBT children of any age are invited to join this community roundtable in an effort to identify what programs and services will provide the best support and social opportunities to parents on the East End.
Aleph Project Sukkah Pizza Party Saturday, September 21, 4-5:30 p.m. Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center, 300 Forest Dr., East Hills
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A Sukkot celebration for GLBT and allied youth: learn about new programs on sexuality and body awareness for youth and young adults with special needs. RSVP: Karen Taylor, 516.323.0011.
Shake Your Lulav! Monday, September 23, 6-7:30 p.m. Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center, 300 Forest Dr., East Hills Join in the Sukkot celebration for GLBT Jews and their friends. RSVP: Karen Taylor, 516.323.0011
SAGE-LI OUTdoors Trip Tuesday, September 24, 12 p.m. Tatiana Russian Restaurant 3152 Brighton 6th St Brooklyn, NY 11235 Enjoy a Russian lunch and stroll on Brighton Beach Avenue, then sightsee the colorful Little Odessa by the sea. RSVP required by Tuesday, September 17th.
Book Club: Middlesex Tuesday, September 24, 7 p.m. The Center at Garden City, 400 Garden City Plaza, Suite 110, Garden City The Book Club is discussing Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides.
Line Dancing Wednesday, September 25, 7-8:30 p.m. The Center at Garden City, 400 Garden City Plaza, Suite 110, Garden City $5 admission, call SAGE-LI to RSVP. www.sageli.org, 516.323.0011
AlAnon Wednesdays, 7-8:30 p.m. The Center at Bay Shore, 34 Park Ave., Bay Shore Closed group for all ages. www. liglbtcenter.org, 631.665.2300
AlAnon Thursdays, 7-8:30 pm The Center at Garden City, 400 Garden City Plaza, Suite
110, Garden City Closed group for all ages. www. liglbtcenter.org, 631.665.2300
Alcoholics Anonymous Tuesdays, 8-9 p.m. The Center at Bay Shore, 34 Park Ave., Bay Shore Closed group for all ages. www. liglbtcenter.org, 631.665.2300
Aleph 2.0 4th Mondays, 7-8:30 p.m. The Center at Garden City, 400 Garden City Plaza, Suite 110, Garden City The Aleph 2.0 Project supports LGBT Jewish young adults in their 20s and 30s, with programming and discussions reflecting their lives. www. liglbtcenter.org, 516.323.0011
Aleph Project Youth Meetings Thursdays, 5:30-7 p.m. The Center at Garden City, 400 Garden City Plaza, Suite 110, Garden City The Aleph Project supports LGBT Jewish youth, their friends and allies, with programming and discussions reflecting their lives. www.ligaly.org, 516.323.0011
Brother2Brother 1st Thursdays, 7-8 p.m. The Center at Garden City, 400 Garden City Plaza, Suite 110, Garden City Social and discussion group for gay and bisexual men of color age 21+. www.liglbtcenter.org, 516.323.0011
Co-Dependents Anonymous Thursdays, 7:30-9 p.m. The Center at Bay Shore, 34 Park Ave., Bay Shore 12-step group for those who desire healthy and loving relationships. www.liglbtcenter.org, 631.665.2300
Drop-In HIV/STD Testing – Nassau County Thursdays, 5-8 p.m. The Center at Garden City, 400 Garden City Plaza, Suite 110, Garden City
Free and confidential testing for HIV, Syphilis, Gonorrhea and Chlamydia. www.ligaly.org, 516.323.0011
Drop-In HIV/STD Testing – Suffolk County Wednesdays, 5-8 p.m. The Center at Bay Shore, 34 Park Ave., Bay Shore 1st Friday of the month, 4-8 p.m. The Hamptons GLBT Center, 44 Union St., Sag Harbor Free and confidential testing for HIV, Syphilis, Gonorrhea and Chlamydia. www.ligaly.org, 631.665.2300
Garden City Mingle Tuesdays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The Center at Garden City, 400 Garden City Plaza, Suite 110, Garden City SAGE-LI’s weekly social for GLBT seniors 50+ at The Center at Garden City. www.sageli.org, 516.323.0011
Hampton Bays Mingle 2nd/4th Thursdays, 3-5 p.m. Hampton Bays Senior Center, 25 Ponquogue Ave., Hampton Bays SAGE-LI’s bi-monthly social for GLBT seniors 50+ on the East End. www. sageli.org, 631.665.2300
LIFE in Nassau 2nd Thursdays, 6:30-9 p.m. The Center at Garden City, 400 Garden City Plaza, Suite 110, Garden City
LITE Social and Discussion Group Wednesdays, 7:30-9 p.m. The Center at Bay Shore, 34 Park Ave., Bay Shore 1st/3rd Mondays, 8-9pm The Center at Garden City, 400 Garden City Plaza, Suite 110, Garden City An open discussion group for transgender people and their friends and family. www.liglbtcenter.org, 631.665.2300
Living PositHIVly 2nd/4thThursdays, 7-8:30 p.m. The Center at Garden City, 400 Garden City Plaza, Suite 110, Garden City A support group for GLBT people living with HIV/AIDS. www.liglbtcenter.org, 516.323.0011
Monday Mingle Mondays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The Center at Bay Shore, 34 Park Ave., Bay Shore, SAGE-LI’s weekly social for GLBT seniors 50+ at The Center at Bay Shore. www.sageli.org, 631.665.2300
OUTlet Fridays, 8 p.m.-Midnight The Center at Bay Shore, 34 Park Ave., Bay Shore Friday night social program for GLBT youth and their friends ages 13-21. $2 admission, transportation available. www.ligaly.org, 631.665.2300
Parent Support Group 1st/3rd Thursdays, 6-7 p.m. The Center at Bay Shore, 34 Park Ave., Bay Shore 2nd/4th Mondays, 6-7 p.m. The Center at Garden City, 400 Garden City Plaza, Suite 110, Garden City
Monthly BDSM Discussion Group. www.lifeinnassau.org
Discussion group for parents of GLBT children. www.ligaly.org, 631.665.2300
LIGALY Advisory Board Mondays, 5-7 p.m. The Center at Bay Shore, 34 Park Ave., Bay Shore
PEP Team – Suffolk Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. The Center at Bay Shore, 34 Park Ave., Bay Shore
Youth help plan new programs and events at LIGALY. www.ligaly.org, 631.665.2300
LIPSA Tuesday Night Tease Bowling League Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. Bowl Long Island, 138 West Rd., Patchogue Friendliest co-ed/mixed LGBT Bowling League. LIPSAbowling@optonline.net
Interactive leadership program promoting sexual health for GLBT young people. www.ligaly.org, 631.665.2300
Safe Schools Team Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. The Center at Bay Shore, 34 Park Ave., Bay Shore
schools on Long Island. www.ligaly. org, 631.665.2300
Sag Harbor Mingle 1st and 3rd Thursdays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The Hamptons GLBT Center, 44 Union St., Sag Harbor The Hamptons GLBT Center is officially open and SAGE-LI is bringing a Mingle to Sag Harbor! Bring your friends and come meet new ones.
SAGE-LI Women at Nassau (SWAN) Wednesdays, 7-8:30 p.m. The Center at Garden City, 400 Garden City Plaza, Suite 110, Garden City A social and discussion group for lesbian, bisexual, and transgender women. www.sageli.org, 516.323.0011
TRUE Social Discussion Group 4th Fridays, 6-7:30 p.m. The Center at Bay Shore, 34 Park Ave., Bay Shore A space for gay and bi men of color to talk about health, relationships, sexuality and other topics. www.ligaly. org, 516.323.0011
TRUE Calling Youth Video Project Tuesdays, 5 p.m. The Center at Garden City, 400 Garden City Plaza, Suite 110, Garden City LIGALY is offering a great opportunity for black and Latino gay and bisexual youth and their friends to show off their skills! Sing, act, dance, or perform. www.ligaly.org, 516.323.0011
Women 2 Women Tuesdays, 7:15-8:45 p.m. The Center at Bay Shore, 34 Park Ave., Bay Shore W2W is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for lesbians age 40+. www.w2wli.org, 631.921.8368
Youth Group Tuesdays, 5-6 p.m. The Hamptons GLBT Center, 44 Union St., Sag Harbor All East End youth should come check out this new hot GLBT spot. Every Tuesday is a fun interactive youth group: hang out with others in the lounge. You won’t want to miss it!
Youth leadership program for young people committed to creating safer
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be scene
GRAND OPENING: hamptons glbt center SATURDAY, AUGUST 10 at the HAMPTONS GLBT CENTER
More than 350 celebrated THE grand opening OF THE EAST END’S FIRST GLBT CENTER, THE HAMPTONS GLBT CENTER. LOCATED AT THE OLD WHALER’S CHURCH IN SAG HARBOR, the hamptons glbt center WILL OFFER programs, services, and activities for the entire east end community. Images by Cindy Viera / www.queerty.com
Edie Windsor, the victor in the recent Supreme Court case that overturned the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), offers some remarks and shares her excitement over the East End having its own Center.
Over 350 people came to The Hamptons GLBT Center to celebrate, mingle, and tour the East End’s first-ever GLBT Center.
The Center features the David Hernandez Community Room, two large conference rooms, counseling and testing rooms, and a large social hall.
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Chief Executive Officer David Kilmnick with the family of David Hernandez Barros. David, the East Hampton teen who took his life in October 2012 after enduring anti-gay bullying, was a catalyst in the Center’s creation.
The Long Island GLBT Services Network expects that over 1,000 will visit The Hamptons GLBT Center in its first year.
Attendees enjoying the beautiful summer weather at the Grand Opening.
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Joel Johnson, president of the East Hampton GayStraight Alliance, addresses the crowd.
Chief Executive Officer David Kilmnick cuts the ribbon with the help of David Hernandez Barros’ family, Edie Windsor, Laurie Scheinman, Debra Lobel, Beverly Dash, Jean Claude-Baker, Bea Alda, and Jennifer Brooke.
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631-654-5300 PATCHOGUE
516-918-3900 QUEENS
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living healthy
parenting
by laurie segal
BYE-BYE, BACK TO SCHOOL BLUES! The end of summer and the start of a new school year are commonly filled with excitement and anticipation, tension, and trepidation. The shift to fall evokes many questions and feelings for children and parents alike. Parents can limit the amount of stress children experience during this transition by preparing for the changes to come.
Ages 2-5
Help children identify and label feelings. Discuss how change can be both scary and exciting.
Be on time for drop off and pick up. This may sound simple, but it is important. Also, give your child an appropriate transitional object such as a picture attached to their lunch box or backpack, or an old key chain of yours, or a special hair clip that they can “hold” onto while you are apart. Don’t send pacifiers, blankets or other objects that encourage regressive behavior. These objects will alienate your child from the other kids who are struggling with their “baby” feelings. Always say good-bye and don’t just engage them in some activity to distract them and “sneak” off. This may work in the short run, but will compromise your child’s trust.
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Ages 6-9
Parents with children on the younger side of this age group should review the previous section for additional age-appropriate tips.
The developmental focus for children this age is about “fitting in.” Assure children the feelings they are having about going back to school are normal and that their friends are feeling the same things. Empower your child. Tell them you know they are ready. Review the summer and all of their social, athletic, and artistic accomplishments. Children this age often ask detailed questions about the things they do not understand in an attempt to relieve anxiety. Try to avoid lengthy explanations about school, teachers, and classmates, which can confuse and overwhelm them.
The developmental angst of adolescence is the struggle between independence (being out in the world) and the need to stay connected to the family. A new school year and a move to middle or high school is a haven for teens to try on new identities and newfound independence while struggling with anxiety and fears of not fitting in with their peers.
Ages 10+
Start the year off with a clear set of expectations. Set limits in advance regarding unacceptable behavior and its consequences. Don’t take it personally when teens act as if you’re terribly flawed. It is simply their way of coping with separating from the family and moving toward adulthood.
ask laurie Dear Laurie, my 14-year-old daughter just came out as a lesbian, and my wife told me that I should’ve never appeased my daughter’s desire to play sports her entire childhood. I know how illogical my wife’s statement is, but I can’t help but feel responsible and guilty. What should I do? –Sad Dad Dear Sad Dad, I feel badly for what you are going through but, to be blunt, get over the guilt! Your daughter needs you and feeling guilty will help no one. The responsibility you actually have is to be open with your daughter and encourage her to express her feelings in spite of her mother’s misconceptions. Being 14 is tricky. There is still a little kid beneath the bravado– as well as a young adult about to emerge. Even though your daughter “came out,” she is still struggling with many questions and concerns. Maybe you can redirect your wife’s worries toward something more productive, like your daughter’s fears. Remind your wife that your daughter is still the same person she was prior to “coming out” and encouraging the two to stay connected is essential. Good luck! –Laurie
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CHILD CARE LEARNING CENTER
KBTB 1-2 [Living Out-Parents with Pride].indd 1
Do you dream of being a parent? Have lots of love to share?
5/23/13 7:39 AM
Law Office of
Faith Getz Rousso ADOP TION ATTORNEY
The Law Office of Faith Getz Rousso a boutique law office concentrating on all facets of domestic adoption law:
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Same sex couples • Single Parent Adoption • 2nd Parent Adoption • Foster care adoption Contact the Law Office of Faith Getz Rousso for a free consultation Law Office of Faith Getz Rousso 128 Front Street Mineola, NY 11501 www.privateadoptlaw.com Tel: 516-500-9292
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living healthy
wellness
by dr. bill blazey
Honey Heals
“Let food be thy medicine” was said by Hippocrates around 400 BC and there is probably no better example of that than honey! Most people think of adding honey to a cup of tea when they feel congested, but did you know that honey has been used medicinally for over 5000 years? In modern medicine, honey is making a comeback as a treatment for skin and other disorders.
The Science Behind Honey
Research has been done to see how this natural product can be used to treat common cold symptoms and wounds, including drug-resistant skin infections. Honey is a concentrated sugary solution that bees produce to store as food. As bees create honey, many vitamins, minerals, and
peroxide-like compounds are added. When used as a medicinal substance, this combination causes bacteria to not be able to grow and allow your own immune system to function more efficiently. Different varietals of honey possess a large amount of friendly bacteria (six species
of lactobacilli and four species of bifidobacteria), which may explain many of the therapeutic properties of honey. Research has also shown that daily consumption of honey raises blood levels of protective antioxidant compounds in humans, keeping free radicals at bay.
Never give honey to an infant as honey may contain spores that can cause botulism to an infant’s undeveloped immune system, leading to paralysis. Also, honey is made up of sugar, so if you have diabetes, your sugar can increase after consuming honey.
Some Facts About This Superfood In 2007, the FDA approved using Manuka honey for the treatment of wounds and skin ulcers. The wounds typically heal without additional infection when this topical treatment is used. It also has a soothing effect to the area that is injured.
Making a mixture of honey and olive oil can be used as a homemade skin and hair conditioner. Apply it to the skin as a mask to reduce facial redness and acne.
Honey added to cough syrups, or a simple home-brewed tea, can be soothing to a sore throat. However, if you have a sore throat and fever then you need to see a doctor as honey will not cure strep throat. The antioxidants in honey are being studied to see if they can reduce inflammation in the body.
RECIPES AND OTHER USES FOR HONEY ONLINE: LIVINGOUTLI.ORG COMMENT ON THIS ARTICLE: @LIVINGOUTLI
about the author: William R. Blazey, D.O. is an assistant professor of Family Medicine at NYIT’s College of Osteopathic Medicine.
“I thought all funeral homes conduct cremations the same. Boy, was I wrong.” Many people think all cremation providers are alike, until they hear terrible stories in the news about families who weren’t treated right. Our funeral home is the exclusive provider in our area to offer Cremation with Confidence™. This means we commit to a 10-step process in taking care of cremation. We are so committed, we offer the Cremation with Confidence™ Guarantee. Having served families for many years, we know how important it is to have peace of mind. Here at Moloney Family Funeral Homes, we have taken care of all the details.
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Please clip and send to: Moloney’s Lake Funeral Home and Cremation Center 132 Ronkonkoma Ave. • Lake Ronkonkoma, NY 11779
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Ask for the Cremation with Confidence™ brochure.
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Serving all of Long Island with locations in: Central Islip, Holbrook, Hauppauge, Bohemia, Lake Ronkonkoma, and Port Jefferson Station
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travel
living smart
by joey amato
out destination: Vancouver Ah, Vancouver–a city in Canada known for great people, endless beauty, and a thriving GLBT community. The best way to travel to Vancouver is either by flying direct or jumping on a flight to Seattle and then an Amtrak train for a scenic four-hour journey along the coast. It is never good to begin a new adventure on an empty stomach, so located almost directly across the street from the Amtrak station in Vancouver is a wonderful Italian eatery called Inukshuk (top, right), a stone landmark, was used as a navigational tool for natives of the region. Check out Chinatown (above) for some Asian goods Campagnolo. and authentic cuisine. Science World (right) features dozens of interactive exhibits, perfect for families and children. Since I had a long day ahead of me, I decided to just sample a few light tasting menu prepared personally by items. My favorite of the bunch was Chef Hamid Salimian. There were almost called Crispy Cece, a deliciously addicting too many highlights to mention, as Chef combination of fried chickpeas, chilies, Salimian’s Persian roots are definitely mint, and citrus. tasted throughout his dishes. Those visiting Vancouver for the first time should not Gay-friendly accommodations are miss this experience. abundant in Vancouver. For a true taste of luxury, stay at the Metropolitan Hotel. Begin the next morning with a visit to Boasting 16 oversized suites, in addition to Chinatown, home to the Chinese Cultural 200 standard rooms, this hotel is located Center and the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical in the heart of downtown Vancouver Chinese Garden. Vancouver is home to and within walking distance to all major the third-largest Chinatown in the world tourist attractions. The hotel features an and a visit to this neighborhood is really indoor swimming pool, squash court, exciting. The streets are bustling with complimentary limousine service, and street vendors selling everything from silk business center. scarves to ceramic figurines. Of course the dining options here are abundant and the However, one of the most extraordinary authenticity of the food was definitely a features of the Metropolitan is its finetreat. For some great dim sum, stop by dining restaurant, Diva at the Met. Our Jade Dynasty. When the menu is written host sat us at “the pass,” the bar in which in Chinese, you know it’s the real deal. the kitchen staff passes off the food to be served to diners. With an obstructed Next, head over to Vancouver Lookout view of the kitchen, I felt I was watching for a spectacular 360 view of the city. a real-life episode of Top Chef. The From this vantage point, one can view sommelier was on-hand to pair wine, most every neighborhood in addition to an of which are from Canadian vineyards, unobstructed view of both the mountains with every item on the seven-course and the water.
The people of Vancouver are extremely health-conscious. Never have I seen more people jogging, riding bikes, and rollerblading. The sea wall, which stretches around most of the downtown peninsula, is the favorite place for locals to enjoy outdoor activities. A brisk walk is the best way to see the city and enjoy its beauty. At the tip of the peninsula is Stanley Park, home to some of Vancouver’s main attractions, including the Lion’s Gate Bridge and Vancouver Aquarium. The aquarium is home to over 50,000 animals, is open 365 days a year and is the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon in Vancouver. Another attraction perfect for those traveling with children is Science World. The museum features dozens of interactive exhibits, in addition to an IMAX theatre. Vancouver is a truly modern city and for those looking to embrace some of the city’s trendiness, head to Salt Tasting Room. Yet another unique dining experience, Salt gives guests the opportunity to pair a consistently changing selection of cured meats, artisanal cheeses,
OUT Destinations is part of OUTreach Public Relations, a company specializing in LGBT marketing. Founded by Joey Amato, OUTreach PR has quickly become one of the most sought-after companies for firms looking to target the ever-growing and affluent LGBT consumer. For more information, please visit www.outreachpublicrelations.com.
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and condiments written on a chalkboard near the entrance of the restaurant, located in an alley in the Gastown district of Vancouver. I suggest trying the threecourse menu for the best experience. After dinner, check in to the Opus Hotel, recently voted as one of the “Top 5 Trendiest Hotels in the World” by TripAdvisor. The boutique hotel’s swanky décor and minimalistic approach is perfect for younger GLBT travelers looking to embrace Vancouver’s gay nightlife. Each room in the pet-friendly hotel comes with a fully functional iPad that guests can take with them as they discover the city. The hotel is just a short walk to Davie Street, where most of the GLBT activity takes place. Davie is lined with gay bars, restaurants and nightclubs, and truly comes alive at night. Each venue has its own flavor, so be sure to stop by a few to really feel the vibe of the community. Another nightlife option is Commercial Drive, or what locals call “The Drive,” as it is home to the highest percentage of lesbians in downtown. Though I was only in Vancouver for three days, I recommend a full week visit to experience what the city has to offer. LIVING OUT
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living smart
fashion
by matthew ambrosio, toni calabrese, and jeanine carnaggio
Knits Do’s & Don’ts
Knits are a comfortable and wooly creation with a dual purpose: to warm and to style. The soft and malleable weave comes together to produce tops, scarves, sweaters, leggings, hats, gloves, beer cozies, slippers–and anything else you can think of–in truly any color or design you prefer. Join the many fashion enthusiasts that have already made this a classic fashion over time. This fall, I went to the experts. I asked friend and yarn artist Toni Calabrese and knit fashion enthusiast Jeanine Carnaggio what their takes were on getting creative with the medium of weaving.
Be sure you pick a scarf that stands out but doesn’t overpower your outfit.
The Flirty Knit
Down-to-Earth Knit
Helpful Tips
Toni Calabrese: A flirty knit could be anything from a skirt to a crop top, and everything in-between. Knit tops or skirts can be very flirty if paired with the right top or bottom and accessories. A billowy top should be paired with skinny jeans, and a flowy skirt should be fitted with a tighter top. Let’s not forget about scarves! As we know, a scarf can instantly dress up any outfit–even if you’re on the go.
Toni Calabrese: Animal and nature-scene themed knits can be a lot of fun, but you don’t want to go overboard with the print. A sweater with brightcolored birds is wonderful, but when you pair that with bird earrings, a necklace, and matching pants, it can become a bit overwhelming. Minimally accessorize with these types of knits.
Toni Calabrese: Something very important to remember about anything knit is that there should be a layer of fabric under the knitted item. If it doesn’t come with an under layer, then a camisole, tank top, or slip can be worn underneath. You don’t want to cross the line between tasteful and tacky.
Jeanine Carnaggio: Cowl necks are great to show some skin, but don’t drown in them because it can look messy. Oversized cowl necks wear you–you don’t wear them.
living smart
Jeanine Carnaggio: Gentlemen, always layer your knit sweaters with a collared shirt. It finishes the look and adds class.
Jeanine Carnaggio: Show your knit knowledge and add it to your fall and winter wardrobe. This warming garment is a smart, fashion-savvy, classic must for the coming season. Always remember, these are just guidelines: there are no rules in fashion and there never were–that’s what makes it so profound!
finance
Save for the Holidays: Start Now During the holiday season it’s easy to get caught up in the desire to give the perfect gifts, and often people focus on the gift over the cost. Many times, shoppers dig themselves into a hole that they can’t escape in the New Year.
Establish a Budget Remember to create a budget for your holiday spending. This means to start to save money weekly or monthly. > Decide how much you can spend Instead of making a list of everyone you would like to buy for, decide how much you would like to spend and divide that among family and friends. Recognize your financial limits. > Keep track of your spending It’s easy to overspend when you don’t know where your money is going and what you’re buying. Make a conscious effort to know where each penny goes. This not only means on gifts but also for food, decorations, favors, and other materials. > Open a separate account now Have a specific account just for holiday spending. This will ensure that you know where each dollar goes, and you’ll have the cash saved up so you don’t worry about using credit. If you know that you’ve had trouble in past years, it would be best to make it a cash-only holiday season. By the time the holidays roll around, there should be enough money saved up. This means that you don’t have to worry about overspending or using credit–and you’ll save money! 28
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save early Start looking for gifts early, and you don’t have to worry at the last second. > Do research Look around the Internet for deals for gifts you potentially could buy for someone. During the year many retailers have sales; look for a gift during that time, and you will surely save money. > Do not wait until the last minute Many stores during the holiday months will raise their prices and add a small discount to make it seem appealing when, in reality, you might pay more for the gift. Buy popular electronics now before they become high-demand.
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FEDERALLY INSURED BY NCUA
LIVING OUT 8/2/13
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living smart
travel & leisure
by meryl lumba
Everything You Need for A TECH TALK WITH JEFF MAIN
Whether you’re looking to replace a device for yourself or purchase a computer for someone else, you’ll want to do your research.
“Should I buy a tablet or a laptop?”
If planning a vacation is not entirely in your budget, but you’re in dire need of time off, don’t be too weary of a staycation! Fall is the perfect time to explore your local area, try new things, and enjoy the ambiance.
Enjoy the Foliage
Function If you’re planning to use a computer primarily to surf the web, stay connected on social media, read e-books, or catch up with movies and television, then a tablet might be perfect for you. The lightweight design and ease of portability make them the pinnacle of modern mobile technology. On the other hand, many people, like college students, hardcore video gamers, or artists and music enthusiasts, will need a device with far more processing power. For its power and performance, folks who plan on running software, creating or running presentations, or conducting heavy research should stick to a laptop.
Brand More often than not, the brand is less important than what’s inside. Focus on the specs: look at battery life, processing power, memory, storage, and other features before making a decision. If the programs you plan to run are specific to Microsoft or Apple, though, that may dictate your platform or your device. For example, many programs for graphics, music, and film editing are exclusive to a Mac platform, so you may want to purchase a Macbook Pro (pictured) rather than struggle to find alternative software.
Size and Weight Consider how large or small of a screen you want: think of the hours you’ll spend using it. If you don’t want to go below a 13” screen, for example, that preference will knock most tablets and even some laptops out of the running. If you will carry this device daily, choose something around three pounds or lighter.
The latest and greatest can also sometimes be the priciest, but if you can afford it, spend more on a premium model. In the long run, you will save money by not needing to replace outdated tech. If your budget is tight and you have no other major considerations, tablets are generally the cheaper route.
The Final Thought If you want a device for entertainment and casual web surfing or email, look no further than the Microsoft S u r f a c e (pictured). Its kickstand and detachable keyboard make this a great transition into the world of tablets, and its beautiful screen resolution, ample ports for peripheral devices, and built-in apps will satisfy most. College students and professionals looking for a more powerful and fully-featured computer should consider the Dell Latitude 330: superior build quality, great battery life, and a steal at only $419.
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Old Westbury Pond is just one of LI’s many scenic parks to enjoy autumn’s changing colors.
Go Seasonal Enjoy all things fall. Warm your taste palate by cooking with fresh, seasonal produce and spices. For those with a sweet tooth, maple cookies, apple cider, and Mallomars are back in the market!
Start a Queue If you want time alone, Netflix is the perfect best friend. Binge-watch shows you’ve missed or reminisce with old movies.
Pamper Yourself Don’t be afraid to try a new haircut you’ve always wanted or to get a long massage.
Explore Local Find a map. Drive or hop on a train to check out local museums, historical landmarks, and famous restaurants that you never had the chance to see with your busy schedule. You can also try your hand at apple or pumpkin picking! Take a day trip to Montauk to see The End: tour the lighthouse and enjoy the scenic view of the Atlantic, grab some food from the variety of great restaurants, and walk around the quiet town.
A S TAYC AT I O N T R E AT
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Check out a park and hike, jog, or meditate in the quiet of the changing leaves.
LIVING OUT
Recipe: Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte Ingredients
• 1/2 cup whole milk • 1 tbsp unsweetened canned pumpkin puree • 1 tsp packed light brown sugar • 1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1 cup hot brewed, strong coffee • 2 tbsp half & half cream • 1 tsp granulated white sugar, or more to taste • whipped cream (optional) • ground nutmeg (optional)
Directions
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In a glass measuring cup or microwave-safe bowl, whisk together milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, spice, and vanilla. Microwave for 1 to 2 minutes. Watch closely and remove it from the microwave when the milk is hot and frothy.
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Pour the pumpkin milk into a tall mug or glass. Add hot coffee. Pour in the cream. Add a teaspoon of sugar. Stir and taste. Add more sugar, if desired.
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Add whipped cream on top. Sprinkle a dash of nutmeg to taste.
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LIAAC, the Long Island Association for AIDS Care, Inc. is a non-profit agency delivering comprehensive services to all Long Islanders infected and affected by HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases.
DirEctor of MoBiLE outrEAcH ProJEct Provide direct oversight and supervision of the outreach and testing program staff as well as coordinate all outreach and testing activities to ensure that documentation and data are collected and program goals are met. Oversee quality assurance for outreach, HIV testing, facilitation of Hepatitis C screening and other services such as Comprehensive Risk Counseling and HIV/HEPC/STD risk reduction, education and assessments. Prepare the quarterly and biannual reports. Ensure that standards of care are met, services are in place for clients, problems and crises are appropriately addressed and documented.
Requirements: BA or BS required. Master’s Degree preferred. HIV/AIDS and/or substance abuse/outreach service experience preferred. Minimum two years supervisory experience required. Entitlements, drug and alcohol supervision, and related outreach experience preferred. Experience with community based organizations required. Proficient in Word and Excel. Own car & car insurance for daily commute. Salary up to $65,000 a year commensurate with experience.
Not-for-Profit AccouNtANt Suffolk County, Long Island based non-profit seeks an experienced Accountant to supervise bookkeeping staff, conduct monthly bank and investment reconciliations, conduct monthly general ledger analysis as well as prepare monthly quarterly and annual grant reports. Assist with NYS Vouchering, Federal Grant draw downs and Medicaid Billing. Reconcile payroll for 65 employees. Must be able to assist management on special projects and financial analysis as needed.
Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree required although a Master’s Degree preferred. Strong organization, computer and business skills required. 3 years of accounting/finance experience required. Must have at least 1 year of supervisory skills. Must have Not-for-Profit experience. Salary up to $60,000 a year commensurate with experience. Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00am - 5:00pm.
cASE MANAGEr Provide Case Management Services to HIV+ clients who are representatives of diverse backgrounds. Conduct intakes, and assess health care/social services needs. Link clients with services and referrals. Requirements: BA/BS and 1 year Case Management experience or 2 years college with 2 year addiction and substance abuse experience.
Computer literate. Bi-Lingual English/Spanish and/or CASAC (T) A +.Medicaid Billing Experience A +. LMSW, MSW, MPH, and BSW grads and students are encouraged to apply. Salary $33,000 - $37,000 a year commensurate with experience. Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00am - 5:00pm. Must own car & car insurance for daily commute. Knowledge of LI area.
coNtroLLEr Experienced not-for-profit accountant wanted to prepare required monthly, quarterly and annual grant reports. Responsible for adjusting monthly journal entries and bank/ investment account reconciliations as well as detailed general ledger analysis. Must be able to balance multiple priorities and work well under pressure. Supervise the accounting staff. Assist management on special projects and financial analysis as needed.
Mail/Fax resume to: LIAAC 60 Adams Ave., Hauppauge, New York 11788 Attention: robert Nicoletti, Human Resources Email: rnicoletti@liaac.org • Fax: 631-656-7235 32
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Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree required although a Master’s Degree preferred. Strong organization, computer and business skills required. 5-7 years of Not-for-Profit accounting/finance experience required. Must have at least 2 years of supervisory skills. Salary $75,000 a year commensurate with experience. Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00am - 6:00pm.
Excellent benefits. Mileage reimbursement. Please check our website at www.liaac.org for other open positions and services and follow us on Facebook. LIAAC is an Equal Opportunity Employer
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opinion
by rev. irene monroe
points of view
An Anti-Voting Rights, Pro-Marriage Equality World I now have had ample time to recover–from shock and awe–from the Supreme Courts’ historic decisions announced in the final week of June. My awe moment is Wednesday, June 26. It was a great day for me as a lesbian American. Historic decisions in both Windsor v. United States and Hollingsworth v. Perry were announced. Not only was the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) finally struck down, but, so too, the anti-gay proponents of Proposition 8. In a 5-4 decision, the justices of the Supreme Court ruled Section 3 of DOMA to be unconstitutional, declaring it as “a deprivation of the liberty of the person protected by the Fifth Amendment.” Finally all same-gender married couples will be afforded the same 1,000-plus federal protections and benefits as opposite-gender couples. The proponents of Prop. 8 were finally told to cease and desist, meaning they no longer legally have a homophobic leg to stand on in terms of their anti-gay and obstructionist antics to appeal lower court rulings. California same-gender couples no longer have to do an anxious walk to the alter, worrying about state rulings yo-yoing them around. My shock moments came June 24 and 25. On that Monday, the Court, in a surprising 7-1 ruling, sidestepped the hotbutton issue of race by throwing the Fisher v. University of Texas to the lower courts for reconsideration. The present-day argument against employing raceconscious admission policies as a pedagogical benefit for diversity is being usurped with debates that classconscious admission policies would best achieve racial diversity. The Texas Top Ten Percent Plan purports to accept 10 percent of all high school graduating classes to their universities. This policy works well, but Texas omits in telling you why: their neighborhoods and high schools are as unabashedly segregated in 2013 as they were in 1954, when the historic Supreme Court Brown vs. Board of Ed. ruling deemed segregated schools unconstitutional. On Tuesday, the Court hit with another hard blow. In a 5-4 vote from a glaringly, ideologically divided court, the lifeline and heart and soul of the historic 1965 Voting Rights Act was gutted. The Court ruled that Section 4 of the VRA is outdated. Section 4 historically protected African Americans and other disenfranchised people of color. The ruling contests a fictive, post-racial premise that racial minorities, especially in the South, no longer confront discriminatory barriers with voting. At the time, the 1965 VRA applied to nine states in the South: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia.
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But voter suppression is alive and well today. Just last year, Florida deliberately reduced days available for early voting, making it difficulty for voters who relocated to different counties within the state to cast their ballots. In Maryland, the 2010 gubernatorial Republican candidate Bob Ehrlich “hired a consultant who advised that ‘the first and most desired outcome is voter suppression,’ in the form of having ‘African-American voters stay home.’” As a member of one of the early generations to benefit from the gains of the African American civil rights movement of the last century, these rulings hit hard. “This ruling was an enormous setback for the hard fought civil rights gains of the past. My home state of Alabama is one of those states that continues to try and block voting access, but those efforts have been substantially hampered by the provisions contained in the VRA,” Jo Davis wrote.
With advances such as hate crime laws, the repeal of the military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” the legalization of samesex marriage in many states, DOMA struck down, Prop. 8 overturned, and with homophobia viewed as a national concern, the GLBT movement has come a long way since the first Pride marches of 40 years past. Many note the perceived distance the GLBT community has traveled in such a short historic time: from a disenfranchised group on the fringe of America’s mainstream to a community now on the verge of full equality. But not all members of our community have crossed the finish line. Will the GLBT community help those of us, like me, left behind?
While many of us would like to think voter suppression only happens in the South, let me disabuse you of the notion with the scores of counties and municipalities in the North, like New York City, the Bronx– and my borough of Brooklyn–that was also covered in the 1965 VRA and will now be greatly impacted. If the Court thinks the VRA is outdated it only needs to read Huffington Post blogger Judith Brown Dianis’ “Top 10 Voter Suppression Moments of 2012” that overwhelmingly affected people of color. The Supreme Court rulings force GLBT people of color to reside a bifurcated reality in terms of full civil rights. LIVING OUT
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points of view
A child–clad in a “Disney princesses” nightgown–glances toward the camera, with one eye poking out beneath a brown tea towel covering an otherwise short hairdo. The child’s body language is on one hand shy, and on the other, defiant. This is one of about a dozen kids who took part in an annual summer camp held three hours by car from Chicago, Illinois. The kids themselves come from all sorts of backgrounds and families from all over the United States. There is only one thing they seemingly have in common: they were all declared male at birth, and they have each shown an interest in things our culture deems feminine. This camp allows them
trans-missions
by gwen smith
to be, at last, amongst their peers for an all-too-brief period of time. Photographer Lindsay Morris has been documenting the camp for the last three years, providing a glimpse of the goingson. The kids are encouraged–but not coerced–to be themselves. For some, this may be the first time they have been in a social situation where they are free to be themselves amongst other kids like them, and not face the jeers and derision of classmates. My parents wanted a little boy. They wanted a kid who would be a part of Little League, show an interest in boyish
LINCS, The Long Island Network of Community Services, Inc., is a community-based not-for-profit agency. LINCS works to enhance programs of publicly supported health and human service organizations.
DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMS Oversee the day-to-day operations of all programs for LINCS and its Affiliates. Specifically responsible for programmatic adherence to Federal, State, and Local funder standards, guidelines and mandates. In addition, responsible for researching and cultivating corporate, foundation, county, federal, state and private funding initiatives and opportunities, and develop grant applications. Maintain a presence both in the Agency and in its satellite office. Facilitate coalition meetings. Act as a liaison with community leaders and conduct ongoing recruitment of community members from (i.e. school, law enforcement, government, businesses, media, etc.). Prepare and maintain monthly and annual reports. Submit written program proposals and grant proposals as assigned. Long-term planning and annual projects. Participate in agency-wide fundraising and outreach initiatives and serve as a leader for department staff. Develop, and organize corporate, community, school outreach, and fundraising events. Requirements: Master’s Degree preferred Bachelor is required. Minimum of five years supervisory and administrative experience in a Community Based Organization, not-for-profit, government agency, hospital and/or university position. Administrative experience in fundraising and/or marketing required. Minimum of three years’ experience in researching grant opportunities, grant writing and overseeing governmental and/or foundation funding initiatives necessary. Experience in strategic planning and grant evaluation. Must have outstanding organizational skills. Proficient in Word/Excel. Must have outstanding writing skills. Own a car & car insurance for daily commute. Salary up to $60,000 per year commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits. Mail/Fax Cover Letter and Resume to:
LINCS
60 Adams Avenue, Suite 101, Hauppauge, NY 11788 Attention: Robert Nicoletti - Human Resources Email: rnicoletti@lincs.org • Fax: 631-656-7235 Please check our website at www.lincs.org for other open positions and services and follow us on Facebook. LINCS IS AN EquAL OPPORtuNItY EMPLOYER
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pursuits, and one day grow up to be a strapping young man. I was to be, even before I was born, “Daddy’s Little Train Engineer.” I was seven before I was labeled a “sensitive kid.” It was not for many years before I realized that was a carefully coached euphemism– that perhaps I was gay or, worse yet, transgender. Not that I think the latter much crossed the minds of my parents as I grew up in the era of Wendy Carlos and Renée Richards. There were no camps like the above then, though I had been threatened to be sent to camp a time or two. It would not have been one where I would have been free to explore my more feminine interests, either: as with many such threats, the goal was to “make a man out of me.” As you can imagine, these did not pan out. What I would not have given for the opportunity these kids have had. When I was first coming to terms with being transgender, I was in my 20s and at college. I scoured both the campus library and the local city library for information on transgender studies, of which there were scant few to find. Of those I found, they made it clear that people did not start to deal with being transgender until they were in their mid-30s or older, if at all. Being 10 or so years younger than that did not stop me. Since then, I have been watching that age move lower and lower. These are kids in the single digits, happily enjoying themselves. One of my first public outings was to a monthly meeting of “cross-dressers and transsexuals,” a social event held in the back of a Holiday Inn. It was a clandestine affair, where many members might bring
a change of clothing with them in order to somehow defy detection as they hit the unmarked rear door. While everyone felt free inside, everyone was keenly aware of the world on the other side of the door. As chronicled in Morris’ photos, these young kids get a chance to have an experience in which they can explore, present as feminine as they wish to, and share their talents cat-walking in the big finale of camp. It is several days of being able to let down one’s guard, or not worrying about what is being said–just being one’s self with so many others just simply doing the same. I never did have that camp experience: as close to it as I got was a handful of hours at a day camp held in the local mountains one year. And while I am okay with my own experiences as a transperson growing up when I did, I cannot help but smile hearing about these camps and seeing photos of happy children free to explore without constraints. To be honest, I wonder how different I might be today, had I had such a program in my early years. I certainly would not have gone through such an experience unchanged, given I grew up knowing that I could not step out of line, gender-wise, on the playgrounds of my youth. So to those who put on these programs, and to the parents of these kids, I salute you for helping make sure that the next generation of gender-variant kids will grow up feeling free, truly free, during the summers of their youth.
About the Author Gwen Smith never did have a man made out of her. You can find her on the web at www.gwensmith.com.
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musings
by andy stern
points of view
He's not
okay The time has come for us to stop pontificating that our legislatures are “broken” at precisely the same time we declare, “but my guy is okay.” If you live on Long Island, at least in terms of the New York State Senate, he is not okay.
Not if you care about gay marriage, where every single Long Island senator voted no. Not if you are pro-choice, where no Long Island Senator will stand up for a woman’s right to choose, and the leader of the Senate–Dean Skelos of Long Island–has publicly committed that a codification of Roe v. Wade will never see the light of day on the Senate floor. If passed by the state Senate, as it has already been in the state Assembly, the Women’s Equality Act would achieve pay equity, stop sexual harassment, prevent pregnancy discrimination in all workplaces, strengthen human trafficking laws and protections for domestic violence victims, end family status discrimination, and protect a woman’s freedom of choice. This legislation is novel, historic, and widely popular in polls because it recognizes the interconnected and inseparable nature of the full range of barriers that
continue to hold women back, and taps into a shared understanding of the complexities of women’s lives as well as a deepening concern over the attacks on women’s rights, health, and equality. In the weeks before the bill was introduced, a coalition of 850 advocates negotiated with legislators to strike the balance most likely to move the entire package across the finish line. The Assembly passed a 10-point omnibus bill to great fanfare. But the Senate refused, taking action instead on nine standalone bills–thumbing their noses at Governor Cuomo, the Assembly, and the vast majority of New Yorkers by refusing to codify Roe v. Wade. Adding insult to injury, rather than allowing members of the Senate to go on record and vote their conscience–and the will of their constituents–Mr. Skelos stymied all efforts to make women’s full
Dean Skelos of Long Island has publicly committed that a codification of equality a reality. The Senate went on to pass Roe v. Wade will never the nine standalone bills rather than the omnibus bill the Assembly had see the Senate floor. passed. In doing so, they deliberately left the entire agenda on the table. In the wake of the “people’s filibuster” and the 11 hours Texas State Senator Wendy Davis stood tall–literally–to protect a woman’s right to choose, the contrast and the cowardice of our state senators has grown even starker. So, here we are. The likes of Skelos, and LaValle, and Boyle, and Flanagan, and
Fuschillo, and Hannon, and Marcellino… representatives who oppose Roe v. Wade are bringing pressure to bear on the Assembly to pass the nine standalone bills. Passing a women’s agenda without choice fits perfectly into the plans of those who oppose a woman’s basic right to choose. Long Island’s “guys” are not okay.
About the Author Andy Stern has been a pro-choice and gay rights activist for more than two decades and is the past Board President of Long Island Gay and Lesbian Youth.
culture
National Hispanic Heritage Month
From September 15 to October 15 Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage month, celebrating the histories, cultures, and achievements of Americans who have roots and ties to Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. In addition, the month signifies the anniversary of independence for many Latin American countries. This month, Living Out would like to celebrate just a few of the many influential Hispanic artists who have shared the richness of their culture through the arts.
FRIDA KAHLO Kahlo was a Mexican painter best known for selfportraits. Her work celebrated Mexico’s national and indigenous tradition while also portraying the female experience and form.
RICHARD RUPERTO Better known as Loco Ninja, this openly gay rapper shares his stories about his upbringing in Spanish Harlem and the rampant masculine territory of rap.
GLORIA E. ANZALDÚA Anzaldúa was a scholar of Chicana cultural, feminist, and queer theory. Her most famous work, La Frontera: The New Mestiza, incorporates her experiences of cultural marginalization.
ZOE SALDANA The Star Trek actress identifies as pansexual, but prefers no labels: she says she’s attracted to a person’s qualities and not necessarily a particular gender.
PABLO NERUDA Chilean poet, diplomat, and politician, Neruda won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1971. His work encompasses historical epics, political manifestos, prose, and love poems.
SEBASTIÁN LIGARDE This famous Mexican telenovela villain on Quinceañera remarks that his life is filled with relief and courage now that he has come out as gay.
Learn more about these influential Hispanic artists at www.livingoutli.org
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