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TABLE OF CONTENTS 8
PRIDE GUIDE DEDICATION Whitney Paige
10 PRESIDENT’S LETTER Frank Holland, president of the Dallas Tavern Guild
12 MAYOR’S LETTER
Deep in the Heart of Pride ALAN ROSS TEXAS FREEDOM PARADE Sunday, September 15, 2013
The Hon. Michael Rawlings, mayor of Dallas
14 CITY COUNCIL LETTER 2013 Dallas City Council
16 DALLAS PRIDE CALENDAR OF EVENTS A listing of 2013 Pride events
22 PARADE GRAND MARSHAL Cece Cox
24 PARADE GRAND MARSHAL Robert Emery
26 VOICE OF PRIDE 2013 Voice of Pride winner Walter Cunningham
30 DEEP IN THE HEART OF PRIDE Parade that began to mark one historic victory will celebrate another three decades later
38 BENEFICIARIES OF THE 2013 PARADE Youth First • Resource Center Dallas AIDS Services Dallas • AIDS Arms • Legacy AIDS Interfaith Network • Resource Center Dallas
PRIDE PARADE MEMORIES 43 What is your favorite memory of the Pride parade?
PARADE LINE-UP 46 Performers, organizations and floats
FESTIVAL BOOTHS 47 Listing of booths in Lee Park
TEEN PRIDE 48 Real Live Connection seeks to empower LGBT youth during Pride
ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT 52 Doing LGBT history The Dallas Way
PREVIOUS GRAND MARSHALS 56 Grand marshals, honorary grand marshals and special grand marshals since 1985
ALAN ROSS TEXAS FREEDOM 58 PARADE EXECUTIVE TEAM This year’s judges, the emcees who provide parade commentary, and the coordinators of the parade and after-parade festival in Lee Park
MAP OF PARADE ROUTE AND 60 PRIDE TROPHIES ACKNOWLEDGMENTS & SPONSORS 6 • Deep in the Heart of Pride | Dallas Pride 2013
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PRIDE GUIDE DEDICATION 'There will never be another like her' By Rich Lopez
gays have our icons like Madonna and WeCher, but then we have our true icons — the ones who achieve fame not by selling out arenas or starring in Hollywood movies, but through persistence, commitment, heart and, most importantly, pure fabulousness. Whitney Paige was an icon of the latter variety. Fans mourned when Paige passed in June from pancreatic cancer, but more so they glorified her with memories of her performances, her activism and her beauty. She was after all, a queen. Bar owner Randy Norman, a close friend of Paige's, posted on Facebook in early June that she had undergone her first chemo treatment, but with the cancer already in its advanced stages, she would lose the battle on June 25. As soon as the news got out, the outpouring began — from Jimmy Fowler’s post on Fort Worth Weekly regarding the memorial held at Paige's home bar, the Rainbow Lounge, to a video tribute featuring clips of performances, pageant wins and photos, to a flood of comments on social media. It was clear Paige had touched her fans and beyond with her voluptuous figure, her gowns that were more class than camp, and the eyes that appropriately garnered her the nickname, “The Eyes of Texas.” “As her health got worse she still held strong on her beliefs and courage,” Norman said. Paige wasn’t just a performer; she was part of a sisterhood — a coven of sorts formed by drag queens of past and present. Richard Curtin, aka Edna Jean Robinson, describes the bond that exists among them as more special and powerful than friendship. Curtin said Paige wasn’t just a female impersonator, but a star whose departure has weakened the drag queen community. “It has been a tough year with the loss of Erica [Andrews] and now Whitney. We’ve lost some of our power,” Curtin said. “I loved watching her onstage. I loved watching the audience! Her performances were breathtaking and captivating. I’ve said it for a long time that she is the finest entertainer we’ve ever seen and not just in Dallas, but nationally. There will never be another like her.” Layla Larue agreed. Larue was among those at the hospital when doctors said no more could be done other than to make Paige comfortable. While a deep sadness set in, Larue knew her friend would remain strong as she always had. “Whitney had such strength about everything so I knew she would handle this the way Whitney Paige would,” Larue said. Having been a fan, a friend and a competitor, Larue often found herself in disbelief after the two became roommates. Larue's memories of Paige are more personal than star-studded. While Larue
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WHITNEY PAIGE recognizes Paige’s impeccable attention to detail as a performer, it was those smaller moments that resonated. “When we hung out, we could be our true selves,” Larue said. “It wasn’t Whitney and Layla from the stage. As roommates and sisters just watching TV, those were the most special moments for me.” Paige — an Arkansas native who became Miss Gay USofA at Large, Miss Gay USofA Classic, Miss Continental Plus and, most recently, All American Goddess at Large — posted a long reflection on her career on Facebook in February. And the final words of that post have taken on new meaning since her death. “There is so much more that I would like to say, but my heart is full with both joy and sadness,” Paige wrote. “Here’s wishing each of you all my best and don’t forget that you can always see me on a corner close by.” The Eyes of Texas may be closed, but they live forever in memory and legacy. y
DALLAS TAVERN GUILD Letter from President Frank Holland
to the 2013 Alan Ross Texas Welcome Freedom Parade! Who would have thought that deep in the heart of the staunchly conservative state of Texas we would be celebrating 30 years of the parade? Yet 2013 marks the 30th anniversary of the parade Alan Ross and his coworkers worked so tirelessly to establish. So our theme this year is, “Deep in the Heart of Pride.” Over these past 30 years, the Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade has grown from a small, local event to one of the top freedom parades in the country. But we have more to be proud of than the history of the parade itself. In June of this year, the newly renovated Frank H. Caven Memorial was the site of a celebration marking the overturning of the Defense of Marriage Act by the Supreme Court. Many from the LGBT community, as well as other supporters of equality in marriage, came out to show their pride. Many of us celebrating the parade this year are also proud to be Texans. From a haven for hippies and ostracized LGBT Dallasites to a thriving neighborhood of beautiful residences and successful businesses, the Oak Lawn area has seen tremendous strides over the past 30 years. We have reason to be proud of these accomplishments. The efforts of pioneers such as Richard Longstaff, Alan Ross and Frank Caven, and every single LGBT community member of the Oak Lawn area, have created a neighborhood deep in the heart of Dallas that we can all take pride in — a neighborhood that has come to represent the heart of LGBT achievement. As always, we would like to thank our sponsors, who are always in our hearts as they continue to show their pride and support of the Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade and the Voice of Pride competition. So from Deep in the Heart of Texas, we look forward to another 30 years and more of Heart and Pride!
Frank Holland President, Dallas Tavern Guild
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FRANK HOLLAND
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DALLAS MAYOR
September 2013
Congratulations! As Mayor of Dallas, it is my pleasure to congratulate the Dallas Tavern Guild on celebrating 30 successful years of the Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade. It is hard to not get caught up in the excitement surrounding the parade. Every year the parade draws thousands of revelers to Cedar Springs and that is a clear sign as to why the Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade is one of North Texas’ most anticipated events. The Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade is more than just your typical parade. It is a celebration of a community that encompasses and welcomes individuals from all walks of life regardless of their ethnical, social and economic backgrounds. Dallas has become a melting pot of cultures and lifestyles. Our city’s strength is derived from the diversity that radiates from the great people and places in Dallas. Today, we are proud to boast that we are home of the sixth-largest LGBT population in the United States. On behalf of the Dallas City Council, welcome to the 30th Annual Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade! I extend a Texas-sized thank you to the Dallas Tavern Guild for their endless commitment to the LGBT community and for making this celebration one to remember. I hope this year’s parade-goers enjoy the festivities, but above all have fun and be safe! Best regards,
Michael S. Rawlings Mayor
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DALLAS CITY COUNCIL
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 4 First Wednesday Wine Walk Pride Edition Come sample great wines, shop, eat, browse and enjoy our “Pride Edition” of the Cedar Springs Merchant’s Association First Wednesday. Purchase a wine glass for $10 and get refills at all participating merchants on the strip. Play for a chance to win a great gift basket of merchandise and gift cards. A fun-filled evening for all. All evening on the Strip TheStripOnCedarSprings.com
FRIDAY, SEPT. 6 Pride Karaoke Come sing with us and show your pride
Bear Happy Hour Pride Edition Join us for cocktails and show your Pride. 5-8 p.m. No Cover. Woody’s Sports and Video Bar 4011 Cedar Springs Road Dallas, TX 75219 DallasWoodys.com
MONDAY, SEPT. 9
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 11
I Love The 90’s Pride 9 p.m.–close No cover. Woody’s Sports and Video Bar 4011 Cedar Springs Road Dallas, TX 75219 DallasWoodys.com
SATURDAY, SEPT. 7
NetChix Join in the fun with this fun show and great drag. 11 p.m. JR.’s Bar & Grill 3923 Cedar Springs Road Dallas, TX 75219 PartyAtTheBlock.com
Little Chalupa’s Pride Karaoke Sing with the always fun and entertaining Little Chalupa. 10 p.m.–closing No cover. Woody’s Sports and Video Bar 4011 Cedar Springs Road Dallas, TX 75219 DallasWoodys.com
Pride Karaoke with Cash Drawing Come sing with us and show your pride with all the greatest and latest songs. Enter for a cash prize drawing. Have fun and win money showing your pride! 9:45 p.m.–1:45 a.m. No cover.
Karaoke with Little Chalupa Have a great time singing amazing tunes. 10 p.m. Sue Ellen's 3014 Throckmorton St. SueEllensDallas.com
TUESDAY, SEPT. 10 Pride Showtunes 9 p.m.–1 am No cover. Woody’s Sports and Video Bar 4011 Cedar Springs Road Dallas, TX 75219 DallasWoodys.com
with all the greatest and latest songs. There’s always a party at Pekers! 9:45 p.m.–1:45 a.m. No cover. Pekers 2615 Oak Lawn Ave. Dallas, TX 75219 PekersBar.com 5 Factor benefiting Resource Center 5 Factor honors five individuals who have made a significant difference to the center and to our community. These five individuals will be recognized for their leadership and contributions to RCD’s programs and services and overall dedication to the community. Celebrate with the honorees while enjoying great tunes, the best libations and bites by some of your favorite eateries. 7-9 p.m. Tickets: $50 7 for Parties 150 Turtle Creek Blvd. #107 Dallas, TX 75207 RCDallas.org/giving/ upcoming-events/5factor
Pekers 2615 Oak Lawn Ave. Dallas, TX 75219 PekersBar.com
SUNDAY, SEPT. 8 Denim Party 2013 Help kick-off Pride week with “Dallas Does Denim,” a great party featuring Chaz Marie & the Band, drink specials, barbecue, dancing and fun for all. 6-10 p.m. No cover. The Round-Up Saloon 3912 Cedar Springs Road Dallas, TX 75219 RoundupSaloon.com Sunday Pride Karaoke Come sing with us and show your musical Pride in song with Spencer at Woody’s Pride Karaoke. 10 p.m.–closing No cover. Woody’s Sports and Video Bar 4011 Cedar Springs Road Dallas, TX 75219 DallasWoodys.com
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Pot Luck Casserole with Edna Jean Robinson Don’t miss this evening of insanity with the always unpredictable Edna Jean Robinson. 11 p.m. JR.’s Bar & Grill 3923 Cedar Springs Road Dallas, TX 75219 PartyAtTheBlock.com Tuesday Tease Combination of sexy burlesque and fun drag kings. 9:30 p.m. Sue Ellen's 3014 Throckmorton St. SueEllensDallas.com Trashy Tuesdays Start your Trashy Tuesday off right at the "Dirty Bird." Great drinks specials and the hottest bartenders in town to help you get your night off to a trashy start Dirty Bird style! No cover. Dallas Eagle 5740 Maple Ave. Dallas, TX 75235 DallasEagle.com
Mr. Bear Round-Up 2013 An evening of fun and fur as “hot” bears compete for the title of Mr. Bear Round-Up 2013! Cheer on your favorite “Bear!” 9 p.m. No cover. The Round-Up Saloon 3912 Cedar Springs Road Dallas, TX 75219 RoundupSaloon.com Underwear Night At The Dirty Bird Join Major, TJ and Hunter for our very popular underwear night. Strip down and cruise the hottest guys in Dallas! Underwear contest with prizes! No cover. Dallas Eagle 5740 Maple Ave. Dallas, TX 75235 DallasEagle.com Bella, Darla, Izzy Three wonderful voices supplying great entertainment. 8-11 p.m. Sue Ellen's 3014 Throckmorton St. SueEllensDallas.com
THURSDAY, SEPT. 12 The Jada Fox Pride Show Join Jada for a fun-filled evening of song, laughter and great entertainment. 11 p.m.–1 a.m. No cover. Woody’s Sports and Video Bar 4011 Cedar Springs Road Dallas, TX 75219 DallasWoodys.com Edna’s Angels Always a fun show with the “angels” of Edna Jean Robinson and her stunning upand-comers! 11 p.m. JR.’s Bar & Grill 3923 Cedar Springs Road Dallas, TX 75219 PartyAtTheBlock.com
CALENDAR, Page 18
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS CALENDAR, From Page 16
Karaoke with Little Chalupa A second chance to belt out the classics. Sue Ellen's 3014 Throckmorton St. SueEllensDallas.com
9 p.m. No cover. The Round-Up Saloon 3912 Cedar Springs Road Dallas, TX 75219 RoundupSaloon.com
FRIDAY, SEPT. 13 Rising Star Amateur Show with Layla LaRue Great show for up-and-comers 11 p.m. Under 21: $10 all night. 21-plus: no cover til midnight; $5 after midnight Rose Room in Station 4 3911 Cedar Springs Road PartyAtTheBlock.com
Nasty Pig Fetish Night Are you a nasty pig? Whether you’re a pig between the sheets or on the streets come out and show us you’re a proud nasty pig! Wear your favorite nasty pig socks, jocks, briefs and clothing. Need help showing everyone your inner pig? Nasty pig gear will be available for purchase inside our store, The Eagle Outpost, located inside the
SuperStar DJ Tim Pflueger direct from OZ nightclub in New Orleans spins as we celebrate with a Foam & Glow party. 10:30 p.m. – 2 a.m. No cover. BJ’s NXS 3215 N. Fitzhugh Ave. Dallas, TX 75204 BjsNXS.com
FRIDAY, SEPT. 13 — SUNDAY, SEPT. 15 DJ Tim Pflueger from Oz in New Orleans Hot dancers, hot music and cold drinks. SuperStar DJ Tim Pflueger direct from OZ nightclub in New Orleans spins the hottest tunes all weekend at the club. Come party with the best! 10:30 p.m.–2 a.m. No cover. BJ’s NXS 3215 N. Fitzhugh Ave. Dallas, TX 75204 BjsNXS.com Cruising the Crossroads Great drink specials and live music in the Vixin Lounge. At midnight, join the Friday night dance-off and win money. 9:30-10 p.m. free cover Sue Ellen's 3014 Throckmorton St. SueEllensDallas.com TMC: The Mining Company Great drink specials with hot dancers 10:30–11 p.m. 3903 Cedar Springs Road PartyAtTheBlock.com
SATURDAY, SEPT. 14
Muscle Up Thursdays Are you ready to worship? Join our resident muscle men Jim, Troy, and TJ and hang out with some of the hottest muscle men in Dallas and their admirers. Best Butt contest with $50 in prizes around 11 p.m.! No cover. Dallas Eagle 5740 Maple Ave. Dallas, TX 75235 DallasEagle.com Juanita’s Annual Pride Dance Contest See some of the best countrywestern dancers compete in this super-fun annual event. Entries in beginning, intermediate and advanced divisions. Cash prizes.
bar. DJ Blaine spins the hottest tunes starting at 10 p.m.-close! No cover. Dallas Eagle 5740 Maple Ave. Dallas, TX 75235 DallasEagle.com Pride Karaoke Come sing with us and show your pride with all the greatest and latest songs. There’s always a party at Pekers! 9:45 p.m.–1:45 a.m. No cover. Pekers 2615 Oak Lawn Ave. Dallas, TX 75219 PekersBar.com Shut Up & Glow Me @ BJ’s NXS Hot dancers, hot music and cold drinks.
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Gay Day @ Six Flags Join your friends and allies for Gay Day at Six Flags Over Texas, a part of the annual Dallas Pride celebration. 10:30 a.m. – 8 p.m. Tickets: $35 (only if booked online at AltURL.com/8u7h2) Regular price $82.99 Six Flags Over Texas Located in Arlington, midway between Dallas and Fort Worth, at the intersection of Interstate 30 and Highway 360 (Angus Wynne Jr. Freeway). Approximately 20 mins. from downtown Dallas and downtown Fort Worth. AltURL.com/8u7h2 30th Anniversary Community Open House presented by Purple Foundation Community open house to celebrate our birthday in the parking lot of the center featuring food trucks, live entertainment and more. This is a free event and everyone
is welcome! 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Resource Center Dallas 2701 Reagan St. Dallas, TX 75219 RCDallas.org/30anniversary 2013 Dallas Teen Pride A festival with live music, speakers, games and giveaways for teens to celebrate their LGBT pride. Free admission for teens and college students with school ID, $5 without ID, $5 for adults. Caven Parking Lot (next to Skivvies) Noon – 4 p.m. RealConnect.org Dallas Public Library Rainbow Family Day All families are invited to join the Dallas Public Library as we celebrate Rainbow Family Day. Programs include a movie, crafts for the entire family and library information for the grown-ups. Rainbow Family Day is a perfect opportunity for LGBT, allied parents and families to meet, spend time together and enjoy special activities highlighting our colorful rainbow families. Sponsored by Dallas Library Pride. 1 p.m.-4 p.m. J. Erik Jonsson Central Library 2nd Floor Children’s Center 1515 Young St. Dallas, TX 75201 DallasLibrary2.org Pride Karaoke with Cash Drawing Come sing with us and show your pride with all the greatest and latest songs. Enter for a cash prize drawing. Have fun and win money showing your pride! 9:45 p.m. –1:45 a.m. No cover. Pekers 2615 Oak Lawn Ave. Dallas, TX 75219 PekersBar.com The Black Party We like it dark and dirty at the Dirty Bird. So what better way to celebrate pride than a Black Party? Come dance the night away to the beats of resident DJ Paul Kraft starting at 10 p.m. Plenty of free parking, the hottest bartenders in Dallas, a huge patio and one of the best DJ's in Dallas make this THE party of Saturday night pride. No cover. Dallas Eagle 5740 Maple Ave. Dallas, TX 75235 DallasEagle.com CALENDAR, Page 20
CALENDAR OF EVENTS CALENDAR, From Page 18
PRISM – The Dallas Pride Main Event Join the Purple Foundation for their annual Pride party. DJ Alyson Calagna will heat up the dance floor at the Loft @ Gilley’s. Opening set will be spun by Dallas DJ Mike Adams. Benefiting Local HIV/AIDS organizations. 10 p.m.–4 a.m. Tickets $30 online/$40 at the door/included in the Purple Pass The Loft 1135 S. Lamar St. Dallas, TX 75202 PurpleFoundation.org
Texas Freedom Parade and celebrate our theme, “Deep In The Heart of Pride.” Floats, music, grand marshals, city officials and a cast of thousands. Free to the public Along Cedar Springs Road to Lee Park Noon: line-up starts 2 p.m.: parade steps off Festival in Lee Park Gather with thousands of your friends and celebrate with live entertainment, great food and drinks, vendors, games, arts and crafts, and much, much more. New Family Pride Zone for a family-friendly celebration in a safe and secure area.
Woody’s Sports and Video Bar 4011 Cedar Springs Road Dallas, TX 75219 DallasWoodys.com
Pekers 2615 Oak Lawn Ave. Dallas, TX 75219 PekersBar.com
Pride performance by Anton Shaw & The Bang Ups The best in entertainment for Pride Sunday. 4:30– 8 p.m. Sue Ellen's 3014 Throckmorton St. SueEllensDallas.com
SATURDAY, SEPT. 28
The Black Party SUPAFLY: Trash Disco The Dallas Eagle proudly presents a special PRIDE edition of its hugely popular Trash Disco Party. Come dance to the best hits of the Disco era from 5-9 p.m. with DJ Blaine. It's the hottest Sunday party in Dallas, so you don't want to miss it! Starts at 5 p.m. after the parade. Plenty of free parking, no cover and the hottest men in Dallas will be there! If you’re trashy and you know it, raise your hands! Dallas Eagle 5740 Maple Ave. Dallas, TX 75235 DallasEagle.com
FRIDAY, SEPT. 20
Cruising The Crossroads TMC: The Mining Company Great drink special with hot dancers. No cover. 10:30 p.m. 3903 Cedar Springs Road Dallas, TX 75219 PartyAtTheBlock.com Sue Ellen's Great drink specials and live music in the Vixin Lounge. 9:30-10 p.m. free cover 3014 Throckmorton St. SueEllensDallas.com Station 4 Great drink specials and the best in female impersonation. 10-10:30 p.m. free cover 11 p.m. Rose Room cast show $4 cover 9-10 p.m./$8 after 10:30 p.m. PartyAtTheBlock.com
SUNDAY, SEPT. 15 Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade Join us for the 30th Annual Alan Ross
No coolers or glass containers allowed in the park. $5 admission Noon–8 p.m. Robert E. Lee Park Turtle Creek Boulevard and Hall Street Spectrum – The Dallas Pride Tea Dance Purple Foundation's annual after parade dance event. Featuring DJ Corey Craig with opening set DJ Brandon Moses. Come close your Pride weekend with the hottest music around. Benefitting local HIV/AIDS organizations. 6 p.m.-midnight $15 online/ $20 at the door/included in the Purple Pass LEVU 2505 Pacific Ave. Dallas, TX 75226 PurpleFoundation.org The Big Backlot “Show Your Pride” Party Come celebrate after the parade in the back lot of Woody’s. It’s always a great time and the perfect way to finish off your Pride weekend. 4-7 p.m.
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Pride Karaoke Come sing with us and show your pride with all the greatest and latest songs. There’s always a party at Pekers! 9:45 p.m.–1:45 a.m. No cover. Pekers 2615 Oak Lawn Ave. Dallas, TX 75219 PekersBar.com
SATURDAY, SEPT. 21 Pride Karaoke and Cash Prize Drawing Come sing with us and show your pride with all the greatest and latest songs. Enter for a cash prize drawing. Have fun and win money showing your pride! 9:45 p.m. –1:45 a.m. No cover. Pekers 2615 Oak Lawn Ave. Dallas, TX 75219 PekersBar.com
FRIDAY, SEPT. 27 Linda Petty and The Main Event Enjoy an evening of the best of Dallas entertainment as local legend Linda Petty and the Main Event perform for your enjoyment. 9 p.m. No cover.
Pride Karaoke and Cash Drawing Come sing with us and show your pride with all the greatest and latest songs. Enter for a cash prize drawing. Have fun and win money showing your pride! 9:45 p.m–1:45 a.m. No cover. Pekers 2615 Oak Lawn Ave. Dallas, TX 75219 PekersBar.com
SATURDAY, SEPT. 28 Lone Star Ride Fighting AIDS Ride 10 or 100 miles. Ride until you are done and the crew will take care of you and get you back to base. Join this amazing fundraiser for HIV/AIDS awareness. The back roads of Fort Worth and North Texas countryside. Post event activities and closing ceremonies at Southside on Lamar St. Check-In: Sept. 27, 5–9 p.m. Day Ride: Sept. 28, 6 a.m.–3 p.m. Closing ceremonies: 4:30 p.m. 1409 S. Lamar St., Suite 226 Dallas, TX 75215 Registration: $75 LoneStarRide.org
SUNDAY, OCT. 6 LifeWalk AIDS Arms LifeWalk is a 5K (3.2-mile) walk/fun run event that raises funds and awareness for the thousands of men, women and children in North Texas that are affected by HIV/AIDS. Bring your family, friends, children and pets to Robert E. Lee Park to celebrate LIFE! Registration at 11 a.m., walk at 1 p.m. Robert E. Lee Park Turtle Creek Boulevard and Hall Street LifeWalk.org
SATURDAY, NOV. 2 32nd Annual Black Tie Dinner The largest Black Tie Dinner in the nation once again gathers together the best of the best to raise money for HRC and local charities. Featured speaker will be Dustin Lance Black. The Elizabeth Birch Equality Award will be awarded to Zach Wahls. The Raymond Kuchling Award will go to Dallas Voice staff writer David Taffet. Phone: 214-922-8000 Central reservations: 888-627-8191 Dallas Sheraton Hotel 400 N. Olive St. Dallas, TX 75201 BlackTie.org y
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GRAND MARSHAL Resource Center CEO who began as grassroots activist still looking ahead By Anna Waugh
Cox recalls her early days of LGBT Cece activism, when she spent hours hunched over a fax machine while glued to a landline to spread the word about upcoming marches or rallies. While Cox jokes that she entered the LGBT community where every lesbian does — in the softball league — it was at a rally that she truly found her passion for activism. The Dallas Gay and Lesbian Alliance planned a protest of State District Judge Jack Hampton, who sentenced a murderer to a lighter sentence in 1988 because his victims were gay. The protest also served as a memorial, with participants drawing chalk outlines of those who’d been lost to AIDS. At the time, Cox was out only to a few friends. She showed up with her camera to document the event and was captivated by the speakers that night. “It was really quite an experience for me,” Cox recalled. “It just struck me that someone showed up unafraid to speak for our community. And I just knew I wouldn’t let people do that for me. I had to get more involved.” That was the beginning for Cox, who went on to serve as co-chair of the local GLAAD chapter and president of DGLA. “I wouldn’t have done some of the things on my own, but I definitely had people that prodded me, mentored and inspired me from the community,” Cox said. “Those are huge factors in me becoming an activist. They said: ‘I’m working on this. Come and work on this with me.’ And I did.” Cox’s passion for photography led her to document the 1993 March on Washington, coauthoring One Million Strong: The 1993 March on Washington for lesbian, gay, and bi equal rights. “I was compelled to create a document to tell our stories,” she said of the book. The events of the march are still with her — the desperate faces of the people who longed to be heard and share their stories. Back in Dallas, people with HIV/AIDS were wasting away in their apartments, alone and often denied treatment at Dallas County’s Parkland hospital. Cox was among the activists who helped AIDS patients receive better care in Dallas, and she marched to The Dallas Morning News to discuss the newspaper’s anti-gay coverage of the AIDS crisis. Her work in the ’90s led to her serving as female grand marshal for the 1995 Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade. Now, 18 years later, she is the first of the grand marshals to be selected to serve a second time,
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CECE COX an honor she sees as appreciation for the work Resource Center Dallas has done over the years. And how fitting, she added, that both Dallas Pride and the center are celebrating their 30th anniversaries this year. “It feels like the community supports what we’re doing,” Cox said. “For that, I am excited, humble, proud and glad for the center.” Cox came to RCD in 2007 and has led the center for three years, helping maintain and expand HIV/AIDS programs, while expanding other programs to meet the needs in the community. She said she continuously looks toward the future to ensure that the center has the funding and programs it needs to stay relevant so the LGBT community can continue to thrive. “[The center] helps build the community up, which I think makes the Dallas community stronger,” she said. Recently, the center expanded its youth and senior programming after receiving input from the community. And family programs will begin in the coming year to meet the growing numbers of LGBT families in North Texas. In her position, Cox still gets to be an activist, but she admits she’s not as much of a street marcher anymore. Although the approach is different, she still manages to get her message across. “I view myself as an advocate just as much as an activist,” she said, adding that she draws inspiration from those who encouraged her many years ago. “We really are just a continuation of the work of the people that came before us and their stories and the love they had for this community.” y
GRAND MARSHAL Longtime volunteer has quietly made an enormous impact on Big D By David Taffet
Emery has been making a difference in Robert the LGBT community for years, most recently helping to organize The Dallas Way, an LGBT history project. But Emery has also left his mark on Black Tie Dinner, the Turtle Creek Chorale and other organizations throughout Dallas. Emery said he was “utterly and completely surprised” to be nominated for grand marshal of the 30th anniversary Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade, but no one who has worked with him over the years was at all surprised. He’s never done anything for accolades, but only to make Dallas a better place. The Dallas Way founder Jack Evans called Emery an “immensely important” part of the board. “He’s smart, clever and talented, and we’re very fortunate to have him as part of our group,” Evans said. Emery said he’s collecting stories from every corner of the community for The Dallas Way. His main responsibility is helping tell the story of LGBT Dallas in print and creating a format to help people record history more easily. “Everybody’s got a story,” he said. “Robert has used his talents in great ways to benefit Dallas’ GLBT community, and he continues to do so,” said Dallas Way board member Steve Atkinson. “It’s a pleasure to work with him on the board of The Dallas Way.” For two years, Emery served on the Black Tie Dinner committee as program chair. He’s responsible for bringing Lily Tomlin, Sharon Stone, Alan Cumming and Gina Davis to Dallas for the event and helped plan the royal-themed 25th anniversary dinner. Emery volunteered as new member coordinator for the Turtle Creek Chorale for 11 years, putting together a successful mentor program. “We had great success in making people feel welcome with carefully outlined programs to take them through the first year,” he said. He took that program to the GALA choruses convention and presented a widely attended workshop to help groups around the U.S. with their growth and retention. “Watching Tim [Seelig] during the AIDS crisis take the chorale on a meteoric rise was a thrilling ride,” he said. He represented the chorale as Miss Big Thicket 1992 and won Miss Charity America 1993. For several years, he collaborated with Michael Serrechia and Michael Doughman on Crossroads Theater, a precursor to Uptown Players. The allvolunteer project mounted plays, such as an allmale version of Steel Magnolias. When the gay author was invited to a restaging of the wildly
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ROBERT EMERY successful production, the response came from an attorney who banned cross-gender versions of the show. Emery has taken the skills he honed working within the LGBT community to the rest of the city. For several years, he wrote the Christmas show for the Dallas Symphony Orchestra where he helped rejuvenate the children’s chorus that had been absent for a number of years. Currently, he serves on the board of Friends of WRR, the city-owned classical radio station. As special events coordinator, he ran its first membership drive that was the first event held in the new City Performance Hall. “When I talk to someone about moving to Dallas, I tell them whatever you want to do, you can do it in Dallas,” he said. “You can volunteer, start a business or go to church. Whatever you want, you can find a healthy, dynamic group for it here in Dallas.” For the future, Emery plans to focus on aging issues and senior advocacy for the LGBT community. He has two big goals — to protect LGBT elders, especially aging baby boomers, with advocacy within existing assisted-living facilities, and to create Dallas’ own LGBT assisted-living center. “Our elder GLBT activists deserve to be taken care of,” he said. “I have full confidence that Dallas will, once again, create a beacon of hope and an example to follow.” Longtime fellow activist Paul J. Williams said Emery has worked tirelessly for the community as long as he’s known him. “I just think it’s time that others know who he is and how much he has done to make us who we are today,” he said. y
DALLAS TAVERN GUILD the years, there are always many quesOver tions and inquiries as to why the Dallas Tavern Guild does what it does regarding the annual Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade and Festival in Lee Park. I would like to address a couple of those in this letter to our community and many guests, from near and far. One common concern from folks is that our parade has become too commercial and is now littered with corporate logos and signs everywhere. The reason for this is actually quite simple. Without those corporate signs and logos and their presence at Pride, we wouldn’t have a Pride celebration. The current cost for permits, licenses, security, sanitation and insurance that are all required in order to have a parade and festival is staggering. We need corporate dollars to cover the production costs so we can still have money to give to our beneficiaries each year. It’s purely economics and we don’t want cost to be the reason we cease to have a day of celebration. Be assured that the corporate logos represented are all from companies and businesses that truly do support our community and us. Another common comment we receive is that the parade doesn’t take more of a stand on political and religious issues we are dealing with day to day. I want everyone to know that each and every member of the Dallas Tavern Guild stands strongly and loudly against any injustice whether it is political, religious or social in nature. We oppose discrimination, bullying, inhumane treatment and oppression in any form. We simply choose to take the day of our parade and festival and make them about us as a community, as a people, as a family gathered together to celebrate being who and what we are. With all the battles and struggles we are committed to, we think it’s a nice thing to take one day and just come together to celebrate all that makes us special and different. Entries within our parade often send a message of concern or support for political and religious issues and that is their right and we wel-
Why we do what we do
MICHAEL DOUGHMAN come that. It’s just for the overall message of the day we choose to focus on the joy, the victories and the opportunity to be together in celebration. I’m sure that not everyone agrees with our choices and decisions but that is what makes America great, despite all her failings and dysfunctions. We can each share our thoughts, feelings and concerns without fear of incarceration or punishment by law. Freedom of speech is still the single-greatest tool of democracy and in support of that freedom, we choose to say to each of you, “Come celebrate with us.” This is our vision of Pride. We may all band together tomorrow to fight a common injustice, but for this weekend, and especially on parade day, we choose to gather in love, friendship and celebration. Welcome to Dallas and let’s celebrate!
Michael Doughman Executive Director, Dallas Tavern Guild
Dallas Pride 2013 | Deep in the Heart of Pride • 25
VOICE OF PRIDE From Wyoming to Abilene to Dallas, performer has always stood out — and proud
By Arnold Wayne Jones
Cunningham is used to standing out W alter in a crowd. When you grow up black in Cheyenne, Wyo. — the least populated state in the union — you stand out. When you’re a drag queen in Abilene, Texas, you stand out. So it’s no surprise Cunningham stood out at the Voice of Pride finals, becoming the 10th solo winner in the annual competition (sponsored by the Dallas Tavern Guild) to find the best singer in the gayborhood. But it wasn’t just that Cunningham stood out that set him apart; it was that he was outstanding. The slate of competitors was strong this year, as even Cunningham knows. There were other contestants who did work he admired, and, perhaps just as importantly, he felt a sense of community with the other finalists. “Everyone was joking around backstage, at least until they got closer to their time to perform,” Cunningham said. “This year we all got along so well.” Being singled out among those he respects made the victory even sweeter. “I’m so honored. I think music needs to be included in the community more. I’ve always been an advocate for being true to yourself, and why I’m happy to have won Voice of Pride,” he said. “I’ve never not been gay ol’ Walter. I don’t care. This is me. What you see is what you get.” It was a hard path, though, for Cunningham to get there. “The beginning of this year was horrible,” Cunningham said about a stressful start to 2013. He needed something to reboot his enthusiasm. Cunningham has competed in the VOP previously; in 2009, he got as far at the top five. Maybe he should try it again? “I thought, ‘Life is too short — might as well give it another shot,’” he said. This time, however, he was going to do it his way. Like all the other finalists, Cunningham had to sing six times on his way to the crown: Twice at his initial audition (he won the contest at the Round-Up Saloon), once at the elimination round, once at the semifinals and twice in the Rose Room on the final night. Knowing what to sing wasn’t easy. “The first year I competed, people kept telling me not to sing musical theater numbers, that people didn’t know [the catalog]. So I trusted them and did, like, Top 40 songs. And didn’t place as well as I wanted. So this time, I went with my gut, which is why I sang ‘Flying Home.’” It wasn’t a song unfamiliar to Cunningham; earlier this summer, he was one of the stars of
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Uptown Players’ production of the Jason Robert Brown musical Songs for a New World, in which “Flying Home” is featured. Cunningham took the lead on that number, one of the most memorable in the production. Singing, clearly, is not something Cunningham does just for fun — it’s a passion. “At Voice of Pride, I was doing what I was born to do,” he says, “so I went balls to the wall.” He’s done the same in different venues ever since moving to Dallas in 2006. In 2011, Cunningham was one of the Kit Kat Klub entertainers in Dallas Theater Center’s widely acclaimed production of Cabaret. In that show, Cunningham donned drag — something he also does every Thursday at Woody’s Sports & Video Bar, where he hosts a weekly drag show in his alter ego of Jada Fox. “I was first called just Jade back in Abilene, but a friend of mine kept calling me Jada Fox, so I kept that name when I moved here,” he explained. The actor in Cunningham talks of Jada Fox as much a separate character as his alter ego. “We’re the same person, but Jada is more confident than Walter, I think,” he said. “She’s better at talking to guys, at being outgoing. I’m kind of shy when it comes to things like that.” Hmmmm … Walter sings on stages; Jada sings in clubs (including a live show the last Thursday of each month). So, did Cunningham consider giving Jada the chance to compete in Voice of Pride? “No,” he said definitively. Even though some of his friends suggested the same thing (drag queens have competed in the past, including this time out, though none have ever won), Cunningham said he’s the better singer. “I like to sound like a girl when I sing as Jada,” he explained. “The singing is totally different. And you have to find the right song. Plus it would require more expensive costumes!” So how would Jada feel about Walter’s song choices at the finals (which also included Michael Bublé’s “Feeling Good”)? “Jada likes them,” he said.“If it were her, she would have done the same songs — only in a higher register.” y
2013 WINNER
WALTER CUNNINGHAM Dallas Pride 2013 | Deep in the Heart of Pride • 27
PARADE THEME Parade that began to mark one historic victory will celebrate another three decades later
By David Taffet
Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade is going T he“Deep in the Heart of Pride” for its 30th anniversary. June’s U.S. Supreme Court decision striking down part of the Defense of Marriage Act gave LGBT people new dignity and reminded us that the Dallas Pride parade began as a commemoration of another historic court decision more than three decades ago. In 1982, U.S. District Judge Jerry Buchmeyer of Dallas ruled Texas’ ban on gay sex — known as the “homosexual conduct” law — unconstitutional. Buchmeyer’s decision was handed down in August, but planning a celebration and getting word out took a few weeks before cell phones or the Internet. The festivities in Lee Park took place in September 1982. The following year, Alan Ross organized the first parade on Cedar Springs Road on the anniversary of that event, and it became an annual tradition. But that wasn’t the first Pride parade held in Dallas. The first took place Downtown in 1972, with 17 cars and floats and 130 marchers and drivers. Bystanders — including 30 police officers —expressed their disapproval by booing the parade. Bringing up the rear of that Downtown parade was Addie Barlow Frazier, a woman described by the Dallas Morning News as grandmotherly, car-
PARADE FOUNDER ALAN ROSS (CENTER) 30 • Deep in the Heart of Pride | Dallas Pride 2013
rying a sign that said, “God’s word demands execution of homosexuals.” Several years later, Frazier organized the first Klu Klux Klan march in Dallas in 60 years — and the last. Since then, a few protesters have typically turned out for the parade, but police have played a more constructive role. DPD Sgt. Earl Newsom, a straight officer whose beat included Cedar Springs Road and who appreciated the improvements the LGBT community had been making to Oak Lawn, served as grand marshal in 1987, and Sgt. Lynne Albright, the department’s first official LGBT liaison, did so in 1994. And today, when people mention grandmothers in connection with the Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade, they’re probably talking about PFLAG — or Parents & Families of Gays and Lesbians. When PFLAG made its first appearance in the parade in 1992, those parents had no idea what to expect. Many reluctantly participated and felt intimidated by the huge crowds as they waited along Wycliff Avenue for their turn to march. But from the moment P-FLAG turned the corner onto Cedar Springs Road, parade-goers mobbed them, running into the street to hug them and thank them. “I wish you were my mom” and “I wish you were my dad,” the PFLAG parents were told over
DEEP IN THE HEART OF PRIDE and over as they walked down the street. By the time they reached Lee Park, an entire group of marchers was in tears. They had no idea what an impact their participation would have. Within a few years of its inception, the parade quickly grew to 100 entries representing groups, organizations, businesses and allies throughout the community. Some of the grand marshals have been community heros like Don Baker (1986), who was the plaintiff in the lawsuit that led to Buchmeyer’s decision. John Thomas (1991) helped guide the community through the worst of the AIDS crisis and Don Maison (2005) has headed an AIDS organization longer than anyone else in the U.S. The first time a local politician officially participated in the parade was in 1992, when City Councilman Chris Luna served as grand marshal. “I thought being in the parade was of critical importance and did make a difference,” Luna said. “It said: I want to celebrate your victories and participate in the challenges ahead.” Both grand marshals were elected officials in 1998 — Dallas school board member Jose Plata and state Rep. Harryette Ehrhardt. Plata was the first openly gay member of the school board and Ehrhardt championed LGBT rights in the Legislature for a decade and was the first to call for a nondiscrimination policy in Dallas schools PARADE, Page 34
DALLAS COUNTY SHERIFF LUPE VALDEZ Dallas Pride 2013 | Deep in the Heart of Pride • 31
PARADE THEME PARADE, From Page 31
when she served on the DISD board. In 2002, Mayor Laura Miller received the honor. But by then, it was becoming common for city council members to participate. Today, they ride on their own float and the news isn’t which council members appear in the parade, but which ones opt out. When Luna and Councilmen Craig McDaniel marched in the early 1990s, their participation seemed bold. But by 2010, Houston’s Mayor Annise Parker came to Dallas to be honorary grand marshal because she thought it would be fun. Her only surprise was that other cities hadn’t asked her. Twice, the parade committee decided not to have grand marshals. In 2001, the parade took place right after the Sept. 11 attacks. Instead, a riderless carriage remembered the victims. Two years later, rather than naming new grand marshals, all of the previous ones were invited back for the 20th anniversary of the parade. Other notable figures who have led the parade include athletes, such as Canadian Olympian Mark Tewkesbury in 2005 and rubgy player Ben Cohen in 2012. ACT UP founder Larry Kramer was honorary grand marshal in 2009, gay Iraq War veteran and peace activist Jeff Key in 2008, and comedian
2001 RIDERLESS CARRIAGE 34 • Deep in the Heart of Pride | Dallas Pride 2013
Bruce Vilanch in 2006. And while it rarely rains on our parade, last year’s Pride took place during a downpour. But that didn’t stop the National Gay and Lesbian Band Association, holding its annual conference in Dallas that week, from leading off and performing every song they had prepared — or 25,000 spectators from cheering them on. In the early days of the parade, mainstream media covered the event by only showing images of men in leather or drag, implying there was something wrong with that and not showing it as part of the LGBT community’s diversity. Now, local newscasts are as likely to show floats from Wells Fargo or Chase or the Budweiser Clydesdales or 100 members of Cathedral of Hope marching down the street. Today, tens of thousands line the street and cheer for everyone who makes up the LGBT community — those who volunteer in the service organizations, the various affirming religious organizations, the friends and allies and the bars and businesses that proudly serve the LGBT community. “We’ve always focused on making the parade a day of celebration for the community,” Dallas Tavern Guild Executive Director Michael Doughman said. “There’s always a reason to celebrate who we are.” y
DEEP IN THE HEART OF PRIDE
LGBT HISTORIAN PHIL JOHNSON
DALLAS MAYOR MIKE RAWLINGS
HOUSTON MAYOR ANNISE PARKER Dallas Pride 2013 | Deep in the Heart of Pride • 35
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Dallas Pride 2013 | Deep in the Heart of Pride • 37
PARADE BENEFICIARIES Youth First finds rejuvenation under Resource Center Dallas umbrella By Anna Waugh
First Texas has had a rocky year, with the Youth departure of board members leading to uncertainty about the program’s future that weighed on volunteers and the interim board. That changed June 1 when Resource Center Dallas agreed to take over Youth First as one of its programs. Cece Cox, Resource Center CEO, said RCD was looking to add a youth program and turned to YFT’s interim board last year for input and guidance. The meeting led to discussions of the center taking over the nonprofit. “We liked what they had and we went from there,” Cox said. The move to an RCD program has already been beneficial for Youth First, Dallas’ LGBTQ youth agency that started in 1999. Cox said the center’s full-time development staff is working on grants for youth programs and events — just one of the benefits of joining with the center. “It’s already growing,” she said. “Not only will it grow, but it will grow with intention.” J. Michael Cruz was brought in as program manager and the group was rebranded as Youth First, minus the “Texas.” Youth First will still be housed in the same location on Harry Hines Boulevard. Cruz, a former sociology professor, comes to the position after working at Southern Methodist University’s Dedman College Center for Academic-Community Engagement, where he increased student involvement and developed partnerships with nonprofit agencies. He said coming under RCD’s umbrella will be beneficial in growing Youth First, which has seen a steady decline in attendance for a while. “I think it’s a great move,” he said. “It’s got history and a great name. I think being under the center is great for Youth First to have more stability and support.” While regular programming — such as Thursday big group night, dinners and various programs to address gender identity, coming out, alcohol abuse, and HIV and STD prevention — will continue, Cruz wants to bring other programs back and branch out with new endeavors. “I’d like Youth First to be the everything for youth with counseling, education, social support,” he said. “I’d like to provide LGBT youth with anything they call in for.” Cruz wants to start having more professional development programs, like the GED and SAT and ACT prep classes that used to be offered. He said the group’s main function is social and he’d like to start a mentoring program to help youth learn how to plan for their future. Other classes
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would focus on job-seeking skills, professionalism, getting into college and career development. And while the program is open to all youth up to 22, counseling is available only for 18 and up. Cruz said he wants to see the counseling services expanded to help youth as young as 13 or 14. One change that has already gotten youth involved in the future of Youth First is a revived Youth Board, compromised of four members. Adolfo Hernandez, 20, is the chair of the Youth Board. His involvement with the program began a year ago and he’s become attached to his Youth First second family. “It’s pretty much a big family,” he said. “I’m a big brother to them. I try to keep them all in check.” Hernandez is excited about adding new programs to draw interested youth, like an art program that was recently launched. The group is planning on painting the walls in the building on Harry Hines, including a mural in the coming months. Rigo Duran, 22, has found comfort in the welcoming embrace of Youth First since he started regularly attending events a year ago. “I love how you can be you,” Duran said. “You don’t have to hide. We have youth that they feel like the opposite sex and in this place they can be who they are.” Daniel Hernandez, 22, has been coming to Youth First for four years. He likes the interactions with other LGBTQ youth and hopes the group’s choir and voice lessons will start up again. “It’s like a home away from home,” he said. Hernandez would also like to see the program thrive like it once did when he first started coming. Events and programming back then drew 30 or 40 youth, compared to the average attendance of 10 people at gatherings now, he said. While he understands that people come for help and move on, and others outgrow the group, he said he’d like to see more involvement for older youth and a greater outreach to younger people. Dallas-area schools may soon help grow Youth First. Cruz said the program has reached out to schools before, but he wants to keep an ongoing dialogue between Dallas Independent School District’s administration and Gay Straight Alliance advisers. He’s already been contacted about youth services from schools in Lewisville, Allen and Tarrant County. “There’s interest in the school system for Youth First to help,” Cruz said. And it’s an interest he expects will only grow. For more information, visit YouthFirstTexas.org or RCDallas.org. y
YOUTH FIRST
Clockwise from top left, Christian Hernandez, Dorian McClure, Aldolfo Hernandez, Daniel Hernandez, Whitney Moore, Jacob Ramsey and Rigo Duran. Dallas Pride 2013 | Deep in the Heart of Pride • 39
Dallas Pride 2013 | Deep in the Heart of Pride • 41
PARADE BENEFICIARIES Services: Adult day center, stabilization services, individualized support, activities, socialization, nutrition assistance, meals program and transportation services. Signature event: Bloomin’ Ball in April Contact: 214-943-4444 or AidsInterfaithNetwork.org.
AIDS Services of Dallas Founded: 1985 Mission: The mission of ASD is to create and strengthen healthy communities through the delivery of quality, affordable, service-enriched housing for individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS. ASD’s mission includes advocacy, education and the development of affordable housing options and community development opportunities, both for its residents living with HIV/AIDS, and for economically disadvantaged people. Services: Housing, food, transportation, case management and medical management. Signature event: No Tie Dinner in April Contact: 214-941-0523 or AidsDallas.org.
Legacy Counseling Founded: 1989 Mission: The mission of Legacy Counseling Center is to provide affordable and quality mental health care, substance abuse treatment, and special care housing services to people in the North Texas area who are impacted by HIV/AIDS. Services: Mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment, 24-hour supervised care for AIDS patients in critical stages of their illness, support building and education. Signature event: Be an Angel in August Contact: 214-520-6308 or LegacyCares.org.
AIDS Arms Inc. Founded: 1986 Mission: The mission of AIDS Arms is to combat HIV and AIDS in the community by improving the lives and health of individuals living with the disease and preventing its spread. Services: HIV testing and prevention, case management, outpatient medical care, medication assistance, support groups and education. Signature event: LifeWalk in October Contact: 214-521-5191 or AidsArms.org.
AIDS Interfaith Network Founded: 1986 Mission: The mission of AIN is to prevent the spread of HIV and serve people living with HIV/AIDS and other vulnerable populations.
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Resource Center Dallas Founded: 1983 Mission: Resource Center Dallas is a trusted leader that empowers the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) communities and all people affected by HIV through improving health and wellness, strengthening families and communities and providing transformative education and advocacy. Services: Various services for HIV/AIDS patients, transgender people, LGBT youth and senior communities, including STD testing and prevention, food pantry, support groups, counseling and social programs. Signature event: Gaybingo, third Saturday of the month Contact: 214-528-0144 or RCDallas.org. y
PARADE MEMORIES The Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade turns 30 this year. What is your favorite Dallas Pride memory? STEVE WESTCOTT: “Marching with the Turtle Creek Chorale eight months after I moved to Dallas. The reaction of the crowd throughout the parade made me feel like I was home.”
MAVIS MAY: “Years and years ago, the event staff would get one color shirt, and each bar would have a different colored shirt. Over the years you got a real rainbow set of shirts. Even though I was working, I still felt part of it. It signifies how much things have changed. I remember seeing kids, parents and grandparents on the patio of the old Sue Ellen’s. It’s like salt and pepper shakers: There’s a little bit of everything.”
KATIE SPRINKLE, SILVIA CARRMONA AND LESLIE MCMURRAY: K.S.: “I have some friends in a band who played at Pride. It was their dream. It was Chix, a transgender band.” S.C.: “Seeing a lot of people from different backgrounds coming together for a common goal.” L.M. “Seeing everyone all together. Things are getting better every year.”
Dallas Pride 2013 | Deep in the Heart of Pride • 43
PARADE MEMORIES The Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade turns 30 this year. What is your favorite Dallas Pride memory?
J.D. SMYTHE: “The one time I’ve been I don’t remember a whole lot. I just remember arriving and leaving. Everything else is a blur. That’s how you know you had fun.”
JENNIFER SIMMONS: “My straight friends from high school came to support the community. It made me feel like everyone is pretty supportive. People shouldn’t underestimate the power of straight people. I mean just because they lead a different lifestyle doesn’t mean that some of them don’t accept us for who we are.”
CAITLIN LINCH: “My favorite memory is when it started raining [last year], and we started taking pictures. It was one of the best Prides of my life. It makes for good memories.”
JENNIFER JUSTICE: “I really like seeing all the diverse communities coming together. It’s interesting seeing all the diverse communities coming together to celebrate something positive.”
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PARADE MEMORIES JAMES DOYLE: “One of my friends was working on a float. I went to hug them and my white shorts got caught on part of the trailer. I got dragged along for a block until I awkwardly gave up and ripped my favorite white shorts. It was about a block.”
CHANEL CHAMPAGNE: “When I was Miss Gay Dallas America 2012 on the Round-Up float.” J.D. BULLARD: “I think that one of my favorite memories was last year when I brought Paige and Taylor Jackson down and they interacted and partied and hit up every bar for the first time and were just unconditionally loving and supportive. It was really awesome to see.”
DANIEL VILLARREAL: “Last Pride, my best friend, boyfriend, a lesbian couple and two transgender pals of ours met up early in the morning of the parade to share a delicious potluck breakfast before heading out to the parade and settling down in front of the church on Oak Lawn. The parade was nice, but being surrounded by so many other vibrant and openly queer Texans reminded me why I appreciate our community here, even if bars and large gatherings aren’t always my kind of scene.”
WADE CLOSNER: “Seeing a family together supporting us at the parade. Seeing them all holding hands and this little 7-year-old girl waving a rainbow flag around. There might be other things that might be more fun, but that’s something you feel in your heart. It’s sentimental, and you can see that we’re making a big change.”
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PARADE LINEUP No. PRE PRE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42
COMPANY / ORGANIZATION
No.
COMPANY / ORGANIZATION
Righteously Outrageous Twirling Corps Dallas Pride Cheer AIDS Arms Inc./LifeWalk Caven Enterprises Spectrum Motorcycle Riding Club Midway Hills Christian Church New York Life Insurance Co. OUT & Equal DFW Peacemobile of Dallas PFLAG Dallas Grace United Methodist Church Home for the Holidays Inc. Enterprise Holdings Inc. Dallas-Fort Worth Coalition of Reason JPMorgan Chase PRIDE North Texas LGBTA Resource Group Black Tie Dinner Inc. Dalmatian Rescue of North Texas Human Rights Campaign Stonewall Democrats of Dallas Supercuts The Velvet Snout Canine Adventure Center Tyler Area Gays (Project TAG) Whole Foods Market — Highland Park Central Congressional Church — UCC Eden Lounge Kim & Shay Ole Skool Lone Star Ride Fighting AIDS Resource Center Dallas Dallas Bears & Leather Knights T.G.R.A. — Dallas Chapter CVS Caremark GLAAD Northaven United Methodist Church United Court of the Lone Star Empire First Community Church Loncar & Associates Spectrum (SMU) Dance Council of North Texas N.T.A.U.U.S Rainbow Ranch League at AT&T Dallas Independent Volleyball Association EQUAL at PepsiCo Oak Lawn Band
43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85
Round-Up Saloon LGBT Studies Program @ UNT Dallas Diablos Rugby Football Club Raytheon GLBTA-NTX Peace Corps The Red Party Foundation White Rock Community Church OUT @ nbcdfw Parkland Hospital USTA — Texas Gay Straight Alliance of North Texas Oak Lawn United Methodist Church BJ's NXS Bank of America Rainbow Members Club (RMC Longview) Cigna National Leather Association — Dallas D.G. Deckard Ministries Dallas School of Burlesque Dark Hour Haunted House Mercy for Animals Northrop Grumman Dallas Victims of Crime Flaggots Tin Room Mustache Envy AT&T Performing Arts Center Susan E. Lopez Craig for Constable Pct 5 The Mankind Project Turtle Creek Chorale Humana Cathedral of Hope North Texas Food Bank Dallas Summer Musicals Dallas Gay Basketball Association TapeLenders LGBT & Friends of FedEx Kaliente Abounding Prosperity TD Auto Finance Dallas Harlequins Rugby Club LULAC #4871 — Dallas Rainbow Council Kroger Club Los Rieles
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NOTE: This list does not include the parade banner, city officials, grand marshals, the Voice of Pride winner and sponsors — which come at the beginning of the parade.
FESTIVAL BOOTHS
COMPANY / ORGANIZATION
COMPANY / ORGANIZATION
Advanced Apartment Locators AIDS Arms Inc./LifeWalk AIDS Healthcare Foundation American Military Partner Association AT&T Mobility BBVA Compass Bank Cathedral of Hope Chad West Law Comerica Bank, N.A. Condoms to Go/Sara's Secret CVS Caremark Curve Magazine Dallas — Gay for Good Dallas Convention and Visitors Bureau Dallas Voice Eckankar (Texas Satsang Society Inc.) Flavors Shave Ice Gayborhood App Gender Equality Medical Society Green Mountain Energy Co. Hard Rock Café Dallas Hot Mess T-Shirts Human Rights Campaign Humana JPMorgan Chase Lambda Legal League at AT&T Liberty Mutual Insurance LULAC # 4871 — Dallas Rainbow Council Luscious Peach Boutique Midtowne Spa of Dallas Inc. NORML North Texas Fair Housing Center North Texas GLBT Chamber of Commerce North Texas Unitarian Universalist congregations
Oliva Travel Our Lady of Consolation Catholic Church Pacific Reproductive Services Sperm Bank Parkland Foundation Paws in the City Peace Corps Pet-Peeps.com Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas Pride Socks Rainbow Ice Co. Reach Clothing, LLC Recycled Pomeranians & Schipperkes Rescue Resource Center Dallas Simmy Sliquid, LLC Stonewall Democrats of Dallas Strongest Link Susan G. Komen Texas Humane Legislative Network The Closet Door Collection Company The Humane League The OH! Zone The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center The Women's Chorus of Dallas Tropicana Hotel — Las Vegas True FM Online Turtle Creek Chorale USTA Texas Veldany Creations Volcano Splash Houston Wal-Mart White Rock Community Church Dallas Pride 2013 | Deep in the Heart of Pride • 47
TEEN PRIDE Real Live Connection seeks to empower LGBT youth during Pride
By Arnold Wayne Jones
Antionett Thomas Neither nor Amanda Robinson is a teenager anymore, but they both remember what it was like being one and feeling out-of-place — even at gay Pride events. They could stand there, watching the parades, but when it came to activities where they felt included, there was nothing for them. When they got older, they began traveling around the country attending Pride parades from New York to Atlanta to Dallas and more. But the one thing they kept noticing: Nothing much had changed for youth since they were in their formative years. “There was nothing for teens during Pride events,” Thomas said. Teens couldn’t even get into many events at New York City Pride, “and there weren’t any teen-focused events anywhere.” Something needed to change, they realized. And Thomas and Robinson decided they should be the ones to make the change happen. Last year, they started ANTIONETT THOMAS & AMANDA ROBINSON the nonprofit Real Live Connection to find creative in addition to the Teen Pride event, they promote outlets for young LGBT people to participate in all Cup of Confidence, teaching gay teens the life year long — but it’s especially important for them skills needed to thrive. to have something to do during Pride. “You struggle with self-esteem and image. Robinson, who is a manager at Station 4, got You’re worried about graduating high school and Caven Enterprises to donate their parking lot for going to college or getting a job,” Thomas said. Teen Pride, a free event taking place on Saturday, “We teach self-identity and self-transformation.” Sept. 14, from noon to 4 p.m. (Adults are asked to You’ll rarely see Thomas or Robinson out when donate $5 for admission.) they aren’t wearing orange or red clothing: the colThe event will include speakers, performances, ors of confidence, they say. Of course, you don’t food, drinks and music courtesy of a DJ — all need to wear those colors to attend Teen Pride — directed toward giving LGBT youth a safe, friendly in fact, it’s kind of the point that you should feel and, most of all, an affirming environment where free to come dressed to express yourself. they can experience Dallas Pride along with the “We want Real Live Connection to open up this adults. door that says, ‘Be who you are,’” Robinson said. It’s particularly relevant to Robinson and And ultimately, that’s what Pride is all about — Thomas, because gay youth are more at-risk than whatever your age. y even their heterosexual counterparts. That’s why,
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ORGANIZATION SPOTLIGHT Doing LGBT history The Dallas Way
By David Taffet
Jack Evans mentioned his idea of The When Dallas Way to his partner, George Harris, the reaction was, “Oh, God, not another group.” But The Dallas Way is not just another group. It’s a group that’s recording the history of all the groups, people and events that have made the LGBT community what it is today. Evans hit upon the idea while he and Harris were recounting stories of life in Dallas in the 1950s and ’60s on their 50th anniversary. Dallas was quite different then. Evans was fired from Neiman Marcus because he was gay. And before “don’t ask, don’t tell,” life was even worse for gays who enlisted. Harris served in the Army but was arrested before his scheduled discharge and charged with “fraudulent enlistment” because he was gay. The couple met in 1961 at a gay bar on Lemmon Avenue across from where Whole Foods now stands. Both remembered the police setting up parties at an apartment, going undercover to the bars to invite guys over and arresting them after a crowd gathered. Evans decided these types of stories needed to be preserved so future generations would know what early gay life was like in Dallas. He sent out an email to everyone he knew and asked, “Will it fly?” And about two dozen people who thought it would fly showed up for the first meeting to organize. “Our goal is to write the complete history of the LGBT community in Dallas,” said the group’s current president, Buddy Mullino. The Dallas Way began collecting written stories, staging live storytelling events and gathering artifacts to document the history of the LGBT community in Dallas. “We’re working closely with the University of North Texas archives department to help us store and archive the community,” Evans said. Dreanna Belden, an assistant dean at the UNT libraries, called it a great relationship. “We share a passion for the importance of this history,” she said. “The Dallas Way is helping us access the materials and we’ll make sure folks 100 years from now can have access to those materials.” In addition to artifacts including T-shirts, posters, programs and news clippings that will be preserved at the UNT facility, The Dallas Way is collecting and recording stories. Some of those stories are being told at events called “Outrageous Oral” held at Sue Ellen’s or The Rose Room. Dallas Morning News writer Sherry Jacobsen
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BUDDY MULLINO told about being assigned to the AIDS beat. She followed the lives of people with AIDS in the ’90s from diagnosis to death and eventually asked to be transferred because it took such an emotional toll. Penny Pickle recounted being an HIV nurse during the darkest days of the AIDS crisis. Candy Marcum talked about founding Oak Lawn Counseling Center with her friend Howie Daire. Dr. Cordell Adams recalled growing up black and gay in Jacksonville, Texas. Films produced for The Dallas Way are another piece of the video record. The Tavern Guild is helping to compile footage of the Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade for a segment that will be presented during this year’s Pride festivities. Rob Emery, grand marshal of the parade in 2013, began collecting and editing one-page written accounts of groups, events and people. He asked anyone with a story to write a onepage description and said The Dallas Way will edit it into a readable and concise historical format. “From drag queens to religious groups, the leather community to AIDS organizations, our history came from everywhere,” Mullino said. Mullino said it’s important for people to know where we came from and what the community went through. “You don’t know where you’re going unless you know where you’ve been,” Mullino said. y
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PREVIOUS GRAND MARSHALS 1985 Grand Marshals Rita Mae Brown and Howie Daire 1986 Grand Marshals Jackie Baker and Don Baker 1987 Grand Marshals Karen Herndon and DPD Sgt. Earl Newsom 1990 GRAND MARSHALS GARY SWISHER & GLORIA GOODWIN
1988 Grand Marshals Lory Masters and Alan Ross Honorary Grand Marshal Mike Richards 1989 Grand Marshals Kathy Jack and Bill Nelson 1990 Grand Marshals Gloria Goodwin and Gary Swisher
1994 HONORARY GRAND MARSHAL BILL HARGIS
1991 Grand Marshals Carolyn Dunbar and Sue Schrader (tie), and John D. Thomas Special Grand Marshal Patti lePlae Safe 1992 Grand Marshals Jan Barton and City Councilman Chris Luna Special Grand Marshal Michael Lee
1995 GRAND MARSHALS CECE COX & REX ACKERMAN
1993 Grand Marshals Deb Elder and Tom Davis Special Grand Marshal Sheri Powers 1994 Grand Marshals DPD Sgt. Lynne Albright and Tim Seelig Honorary Grand Marshal Bill Hargis Special Grand Marshals Karen Thompson and Sharon Kowalski
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1995 Grand Marshals Cece Cox and Rex Ackerman Special Grand Marshal Denis Wier 1996 Grand Marshals The Rev. Michael Piazza and Feleshia Porter Honorary Grand Marshals Dennis Vercher and De’An Olson 1997 Grand Marshals Joe Elliott and Robert Moore 1998 Grand Marshals Jose Plata and Harryette Ehrhardt Honorary Grand Marshals Walt Whitman Community School and Women’s Communities Assn. 1999 Grand Marshals The Rev. Mona West and Steve Atkinson 2000 Grand Marshals Alan Gellman and Christy Kinsler 2001 Grand Marshals Unfilled; in place of the marshals was a card reading: “Dedicated to the victims lost in the tragedy” of Sept. 11. Special Grand Marshal Miss Texas 2000 Tara Watson 2002 Grand Marshals Brady L. Allen, M.D., and Karen Estes Honorary Grand Marshal The Hon. Laura Miller, mayor of Dallas 2003 Grand Marshals None; instead, all the grand marshals, honorary grand marshals and special grand marshals from the previous 20 years were honored.
2004 Grand Marshals Dee Pennington and Jim Gadient 2005 Grand Marshals Don Maison and Louise Young Honorary Grand Marshals Mark Tewksbury and Frances Stevens 2006 Grand Marshals Leo Cusimano and Veletta Lill Honorary Grand Marshal Bruce Vilanch 2007 Grand Marshals Ed Oakley and Melissa Grove 2008 Grand Marshals Laura Miller and Mark Frazier Honorary Grand Marshal Jeff Key 2009 Grand Marshals Jesse Garcia and Lupe Valdez Honorary Grand Marshal Larry Kramer 2010 Grand Marshals Paul Lewis and Erin Moore Honorary Grand Marshal The Hon. Annise Parker, mayor of Houston 2011 Grand Marshals Chris Bengston, Gary Miller and Alan Pierce Honorary Grand Marshal Joel Burns, Fort Worth city councilman 2012 Grand Marshals The Rev. Jo Hudson and Gene Voskuhl
2013 PARADE EXECUTIVE TEAM
DAVID BERRYMAN
JARON TURNBOW
LESLIE STOUT
BETTY NEAL
KENNETH THOMPSON
MATTHEW MCKEOWN
Deep in the Heart of Pride VAUGHN MCCAULEY
KATHLEEN SCHRAUFNAGEL
KENT OWENS
CORBIN COLLIER
BRIAN FOSTER
LEO CUSIMANO
TEMPEST REDDING
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2013 PARADE EXECUTIVE TEAM FAMILY PRIDE ZONE COMMITTEE Leo Cusimano Tempest Redding
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Michael Doughman David Berryman Jaron Turnbow Leslie Stout PARADE LOGISTICS COMMITTEE Betty Neal Brandon Slovak Kenneth Thompson Casey Torrey Matthew McKeown Keith McAndrew FESTIVAL LOGISTICS COMMITTEE Vaughn McCauley Kathleen Schraufnagel Kent Owens Corbin Collier Brian Foster
FESTIVAL FOOD & BEVERAGE COMMITTEE Dan Nagel Mark Gurrola Renee Strunk TECHNICAL ADVISER Michael Devore
PARADE EMCEES Bradley Justice Peter Z. Tammi Rowley Matt Brewer Maxx Nunez PARADE JUDGES Pauline Medrano Sherry Briggs Angela Amos FESTIVAL EMCEE Kenny Bramlett
SECURITY LIASONS Lt. Barbara Hobbs Det. Sgt. Jeremy Liebbe
Deep in the Heart of Pride
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PARADE MAP 12:00 pm until 8:00 pm Closing ceremonies commence at Lee Park immediately after parade.
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TROPHY CATEGORIES Best Performance Best Walking Group Best Costume 60 • Deep in the Heart of Pride | Dallas Pride 2013
Social Commentary Best For-Profit Float BestBest Social Commentary In The Heart Of Best Non-Profit Float BestDeep Theme Representation Pride Judges’ Choice Best Overall Entry Best Overall Entry
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PARADE SPONSORS OUR LEAD SPONSOR AND PARTNERS: Parent Company: Andrews Distributing Partner: Heineken Partner: Miller Lite
CORPORATE PARTNERS: American Airlines Cornerstone Division Hilton Anatole Hotel North Texas GLBT Chamber of Commerce Orbitz Gay Travel Red Bull USA Steven Graves Insurance
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SUPPORTING PARTNERS: American Heathcare Foundation Avita Drugs Brinker International/Chili’s Capital One Dallas Voice Enterprise Holdings Edge Media Oak Lawn TV Park Place Volvo Premier Transportaton Spectrum Motorcycle Club Texas Gay Rodeo Association The UPS Store On Lemmon Avenue