Ameriprise Financial helps you stay true to your dreams. Ameriprise Financial has been a leader in financial planning for the gay and lesbian community for decades. As an Ameriprise financial advisor, I can help you plan to achieve your most important goals including starting your own business, adopting or just retiring in comfort. I can also help you plan to meet your immediate needs with investment advice, estate planning strategies and financial planning with your partner. Simply put, we believe in your dreams. I can help you plan to make them happen.
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FROM THE EDITOR Excerpts from President Obama’s
Arizona Memorial Tribute
P.O. Box 17674 • Phoenix, AZ 85011-7674 (602) 373-9490 • info@ntouchaz.com Editor
Gina Read
Creative & Technical Director
When a tragedy like this strikes, it is part of our nature to demand explanations - to try to impose some order on the chaos, and make sense out of that which seems senseless. Already we’ve seen a national conversation commence, not only about the motivations behind these killings, but about everything from the merits of gun safety laws to the adequacy of our mental health systems. Much of this process, of debating what might be done to prevent such tragedies in the future, is an essential ingredient in our exercise of self-government. But at a time when our discourse has become so sharply polarised - at a time when we are far too eager to lay the blame for all that ails the world at the feet of those who think differently than we do - it’s important for us to pause for a moment and make sure that we are talking with each other in a way that heals, not a way that wounds. [T]he truth is that none of us can know exactly what triggered this vicious attack. None of us can know with any certainty what might have stopped those shots from being fired, or what thoughts lurked in the inner recesses of a violent man’s mind. So yes, we must examine all the facts behind this tragedy. We cannot and will not be passive in the face of such violence. We should be willing to challenge old assumptions in order to lessen the prospects of violence in the future. But what we can’t do is use this tragedy as one more occasion to turn on one another. As we discuss these issues, let each of us do so with a good dose of humility. Rather than pointing fingers or assigning blame, let us use this occasion to expand our moral imaginations, to listen to each other more carefully, to sharpen our instincts for empathy, and remind ourselves of all the ways our hopes and dreams are bound together. If this tragedy prompts reflection and
debate, as it should, let’s make sure it’s worthy of those we have lost. Let’s make sure it’s not on the usual plane of politics and point scoring and pettiness that drifts away with the next news cycle. ... And if, as has been discussed in recent days, their deaths help usher in more civility in our public discourse, let’s remember that it is not because a simple lack of civility caused this tragedy, but rather because only a more civil and honest public discourse can help us face up to our challenges as a nation, in a way that would make them proud... I believe we can be better. Those who died here, those who saved lives here they help me believe. We may not be able to stop all evil in the world, but I know that how we treat one another is entirely up to us. I believe that for all our imperfections, we are full of decency and goodness, and that the forces that divide us are not as strong as those that unite us. Imagine: here was a young girl (Christina Taylor Green) who was just becoming aware of our democracy; just beginning to understand the obligations of citizenship; just starting to glimpse the fact that some day she too might play a part in shaping her nation’s future... She was off to meet her congresswoman, someone she was sure was good and important and might be a role model. She saw all this through the eyes of a child, undimmed by the cynicism or vitriol that we adults all too often just take for granted. I want us to live up to her expectations. I want our democracy to be as good as she imagined it. All of us - we should do everything we can to make sure this country lives up to our children’s expectations.
M. Shelby Blanton
Business Development Director
Tracey Stewart
Assistant Editor
Luis Garcia
Web Programming Assistant
Jason Walsh
Advertising Sales Joseph A Gaxiola, Danny Catt National Advertising Sales Rivendell Media - (212) 242-6863 Photographers Patrick Kelley, Jamie Saragosa, Joseph A. Gaxiola, Danny Catt Writers
Dr Damien L. Brandeis, Jarrod Dill, Dorian Kreiling, Kirk Matthews, Dr. Dina Evan, Jane O. Ross, Dr. Alicia Ruiz, Kyrsten Sinema, J. Ursone, John Thomas Lotardo
Additional Distribution Support Ted Kirby, Paul Sanchez
To advertise in ‘N Touch News, call Tracey Stewart at (602) 373-9488.
Publisher
Gina Read
© 2011-15 WriteBrain Productions, LLC, Design & Layout by Lionwood Visual Design.
Published on the 15th of every month ALL RIGHTS RESERVED - PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.
All original artwork for ‘N TOUCH NEWS remains property of LIONWOOD VISUAL DESIGN and cannot be reproduced, altered, or sold without authorization and compensation. Limited usage rights can be purchased for a small fee. NOTE: The opinions expressed in these articles do not necessarily reflect the views of ‘N TOUCH NEWS, its staff, or that of its parent company. Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization within ‘N TOUCH NEWS is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or organization. Some photos were submitted by our readers. To our knowledge, they own the copyrights, and they have given us permission to reproduce them. If you see a picture that you own, please call us immediately and we will remove if from future publications. All copy, text, display, photos and illustrations in the ads are published with the understanding that the advertisers are fully authorized, have secured proper written consent for the use of names, pictures, and testimonials of any living person, and that ‘N Touch News is not responsible for unlawful use of such content.
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4 | Issue #79 | February 2011 | ntouchaz.com
news / politics / business / opinion
Issue At A Glance ‘N Touch News Magazine Issue #79, February 2011
LOCAL NEWS 6
Reluctant hero credited with saving Rep. Giffords
7
January 24 kicks off No Name-Calling Week
8
Artwork by queer, undocumented and homeless youth
p 6 - A gay man’s act
POLITICS 14
Meet candidate for City of Phoenix Mayor - Greg Stanton
BUSINESS 24
p 8 - The youth speak...
Looking for a job?
FEATURE ARTICLE 28
The RoadRunner Regional Rodeo, its more than roping and riding
p 14 - Meet Greg
ETHICS 37
The ethics of email and texting
PETS 39
Have room in your life? Rocky or Anakin are looking for a forever home
HERE TO SERVE OUR p 28 - Hee Haw Bronc!
COMMUNITY!
FOCUS TUCSON 49
Fabulous Faygeleh LGBT Film Series continues 725 West Indian School Road, Suite 125 p 37 - Guard your texts?
Phoenix, AZ 85013 For more information visit www.1vcc.org or call (602)712-0111
p 49 - Gays, Jews, Film!
LOCAL NEWS
Intern rejects “hero” label By Gina Read
Gabrielle Giffords’ Intern Daniel Hernandez receives a standing ovation at the Arizona Capitol for his heroic efforts on Saturday, Jan 8th, 2011
Intern Daniel Hernandez in action holding the hands of Gaby Giffords as she is wheeled to the ambulance that is to rush her to the hospital.
Daniel Hernandez sitting next to President Barack Obama and former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor before giving his speech to the nation
At the sound of gunshots most flee from the noise, but not 20 year-old Daniel Hernandez Jr. who ran toward them and began checking the pulses of people who’d been shot by suspect Jared Loughner. Hernandez had been U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords’ intern for only five days when she was shot along with 18 others Jan. 8 at a Tucson strip mall. Hernandez says he saw many people lying on the ground that day. He moved from person to person checking pulses. “First the neck, then the wrist,” he told the Arizona Republic. One man was already dead. Then he saw Giffords, a woman he admired and looked up to, bleeding from a gunshot wound to the head. Hernandez, pulled her into his lap and held her upright so she wouldn’t choke on her own blood, applying pressure to the entry wound. While he waited for paramedics to arrive, Hernandez kept his cool instructing bystander Anna Ballis on how to apply pressure to a leg wound sustained by Ron Barber, Giffords’ district director. At Barber’s urging, he stayed with Giffords all the way
to the hospital never letting go of her hand. The fact that Hernandez was nearby and able to react quickly probably saved Giffords’ life, said state Rep. Matt Heinz, D-Tucson, and a hospital physician. Within hours of the shooting Hernandez was being hailed as a hero, a label he adamantly rejects. “You just have to be calm and collected,” he told the Republic. “You do no good to anyone if you have a breakdown.. .. It was probably not the best idea to run toward the gunshots, but people needed help.” Hernandez, a political science major at the University of Arizona, was honored to sit next President Obama during a televised memorial service Jan. 12. He spoke before the president saying, “The real heroes are the people who have dedicated their lives to public service .. They are the people who we should be honoring. “One of the things we have learned from this tragedy is we have come together. On Saturday, we all became Tucsonans. On Saturday we all become Arizonans. And above all, we all become
Americans. “Despite the horrific actions on Saturday … we saw glimmers of hope … Although I appreciate the sentiment, I must humbly reject the use of the word hero because I am not one” he told the crowd. The towering young man appeared to tear up after the crowd broke into applause at Obama’s tribute to him. Despite his rejection of the label, Hernandez is still a hero in the eyes of Giffords’ staff and friends. “I don’t care what he says, Daniel is a hero, a real hero,” C.J. Karamargin, Giffords’ Communications Director told ‘N Touch News. Hernandez is a member of the City of Tucson Commission on Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Issues. “She (Giffords) has been a great ally to the LGBT community. She’s definitely a fighter, whether for her own life, or standing up for people in southern Arizona.”” Hernandez said.
Bipartisan act at AZ Legislature bars protests at funerals
In a rare show of unity and compassion, Democrats and Republicans passed a measure to keep members of the Westboro Baptist Church from protesting at funerals. The group, best known for 6 | Issue #79 | February 2011 | ntouchaz.com
its website “God Hates Fags”, have inflamed emotions at funerals of soldiers killed in Afghanistan and Iraq. “This bill contains an emergency clause and is therefore effective upon my signature,” Brewer said in a statement released with the signing of the bill. “Such despicable acts of emotional terrorism will not be tolerated in the state of Arizona.” The church had announced its members would be at the funeral for Christina Green, a 9-year-old who died in the Tucson tragedy, but have since backed down from that threat. “The first message (the bill) sends is that some things are just right and some things are wrong, and that picketing funerals is wrong,” said Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, a Democrat from Phoenix and
an author of the legislation. “In times of tragedies, we always, I would hope, come together in a different way,” said Senate President Russell Pearce, who earlier described the bill, S1101, as a balancing act between people’s right to protest and respect for families as they grieve the loss of loved ones. The measure, which passed unanimously in both chambers, bars protests within 300 feet of a funeral or burial service from one hour before to one hour after the service. Violators would face a Class 1 misdemeanor charge under the bill. The bill was this session’s very first to be signed into law, which shows how the shooting has already begun to affect politics in Arizona. news / politics / business / opinion
Counseling re
LOCAL NEWS A student, a school & a case that made history ADL & SCC present Bullied By Gina Read For nearly four years Jamie Nabozny endured antigay verbal and physical abuse by fellow students at his public high school in Ashland, Wisconsin. Students threatened him, urinated on him and when they found him alone kicked him so many times in the stomach that he required surgery. School officials were aware of the abuse, saying that Nabozny should expect it if he’s gay, and at another point telling him not to act so gay. After attempting suicide several times, Nabozny dropped out of school and ran away. But as he thought about it he decided to do
something so that no other student would ever have to go through the abuse he had. In 1995, Nabozny sued his former school, but a federal district judge ruled that a school cannot be held liable for the actions of students and that no equal protection claim was presented by Nabozny’s case. Lambda Legal took over his case before a federal appeals court, which issued the first judicial opinion in the nation’s history finding that a public school could be held accountable for not stopping antigay abuse. The case went back to trial and a jury found the school officials
liable for the harm they caused to Nabozny. The case then settled for close to $1 million. Narrated by Jane Lynch, Bullied is a documentary film that chronicles Nabozny’s ordeal and offers an inspiring message of hope to those fighting harassment today. It has become a cornerstone of antibullying efforts in some middle and high schools, and is available free to schools at tolerance.org/bullied. Bullied will be presented by the Anti-Defamation League and Scottsdale Community College through The Many Faces of Hate Film Series, Jan. 26. The free
showing will be at 6:30 p.m. in the Turquoise Room at SCC, 9000 E. Chaparral. Park in parking lot A. A discussion will follow the showing. For more information call 602274-0991 or visit adl.org.
No Name-Calling Week - Jan. 24-28 How you can get involved By Katie Whitley - Peer Allies January 24 kicks off No NameCalling Week, one of the Gay, Lesbian, Straight Education Network’s (GLSEN) education programs. The Days of Action are meant to draw attention to anti-LGBT bulling and harassment and to help make safer, more respectful schools. No NameCalling Week focuses on all bulling, name calling, and harassment—including name calling based on race/ ethnicity, economic status, intelligence, weight, appearance, or disability—not just sexual orientation and gender identity/expression. No Name-Calling Week, which was started in March of 2004, is a
nationwide effort to focus people’s attention on the issue of name calling in schools. The main goal of this project is to provide students, teachers, and staff with the tools and motivation to start ongoing dialogues about ways to eliminate name-calling in schools. No Name-Calling Week has the support of over 40 national partner organizations including the
Anti-Defamation League, Amnesty International and Girl Scouts of the USA . One popular way of participating in No Name-Calling Week is the Creative Expression Contest. K-12 students can submit any type of artistic expression including poems, stories, essays, drawing, collages, sculptures, songs, paintings,
Counseling resources There is no way to make sense of the recent act of violence in Tucson. Please know that grief for our friends, colleagues & community is completely natural. Are you suffering the abuse of a bully or know someone who is?
For either situation and many many more, if you would like to talk with someone about your experience please call
1-866-342-6892, this a free, 24-hour community hotline for those in need of counseling. news / politics / business / opinion
esources
or anything that relates to their experiences with, or ideas about bullying. Other ideas include holding a film festival, doing a school wide art project, or having a table set up during lunch where people can sign a pledge against name-calling. For those who are not affiliated with a school, donations of Safe Space Kits are a wonderful way to help schools get involved in the dialogue. Peer Allies would love to assist any school or group who would like to participate in No Name-Calling Week. Packets were sent to Valley schools detailing ways to get involved. Trainings leading up to, during, or as a wrap up to No Name-Calling Week are being offered for schools who would like to take advantage of the opportunity. Peer Allies will also be at the showing of the Anti-Defamation League and Scottsdale Community College “The Many Faces of Hate Film Series” showing of Bullied on January 26 at Scottsdale Community College. For more information on No Name-Calling Week, go to nonamecallingweek.org For more information on Peer Allies or to get in contact, go to Facebook.com/PeerAllies
ntouchaz.com | February 2011 | Issue #79 | 7
DESPERADO Gay and Lesbian Film Festival Paradise Valley Community College Phoenix, Arizona January 28th - 30th, 2011 www.desperadoolmfestival.com
Presented in collaboration with Paradise Valley Community College's OďŹƒce of Student Life, P.R.I.D.E Student Organization and the Center for the Performing Arts.
LOCAL NEWS
Unknown: Artwork by Queer,
Undocumented and Homeless Youth
Instructors, artists & supplies needed, Art unveiled Feb 4 & 11 By J. Ursone
1n10 and 3rd Space will be hosting an art show dedicated to celebrating and advocating for three communities: Queer, Undocumented and Homeless youth. “These three are often criticized and critiqued but seldomly celebrat-
ed or advocated,” said 1n10 Program Director Micheal Weakly. Weakly says the idea for the art show was sparked after 3rd Space, a social and advocacy organization for LGBTQ undocumented and migrant workers, did a presentation at the YEP! House. “These three communities are seldom celebrated in art, and generally seen as victims. We wanted to show their creative sides, their human sides and celebrate their lives through art.” 1n10 is seeking both artists and art instructors for workshops in January. Each Saturday at different locations in the Valley the non-profit will be hosting free art space, materials and creative opportunities for those who have an urge to express themselves, but have not been given the opportunities to have these talents blossom.
“We need both artists, potential artists and instructors to volunteer in these workshops. Additionally at the 1n10 drop in center we will be holding workshops from 5:30-7 p.m. and we need help then.” Some basic guidelines: All art work needs to be created by those in the three communities or those involved with these communities. There are no age requirements but art must reflect the needs or accomplishments, behavior or attitude toward the three communities. Additionally each work of art needs to have a written story along with it and each piece must be titled “Unknown”. Any and all forms of art are invited and welcome: Nudity must be limited and 1n10 and 3rd Space reserve the right to deny or accept art. “The LGBTQ community, undocumented community, and home-
less community should see each others as allies. Each community crosses over into the other often times. I want their lives shown through art and appreciated for their humanness and beauty.” 1n10 volunteers and staff will be participating and leading all events. Volunteers and artists will also be helping to tell the artist’s story when necessary and ensuring that anyone regardless of their ability to read or write English will be able to participate. The resulting art will be displayed Feb. 4 and Feb. 11 at the Release the Fear studio in Central Phoenix (Grace Chapel located at 302 West Monroe). If you are interested as an artist or instructor please email Micheal@1n10.org and place “ART show” in the subject line.
LGBT Caucus to elect board By Luis Garcia LGBT Caucus Members will have the opportunity this month to elect individuals to its executive board. Every two years the election is held in conjunction with the Arizona Democratic Party’s own reorganization meeting in January. The Nominating Committee has met and put forward the following slate of candidates for the Jan. 22 meeting at at the Downtown Phoenix Wyndham Hotel: C.J. Carenza for chair, Barbara McCullough-Jones for vicechair, Trish Rensick for secretary, and Bob Bland for Treasurer. “In addition to those nominated the Nominating Committee may make additional nominations before the reorganization meeting, and nominations will be accepted from the floor at the reorganization meeting,” said LGBT Caucus, Nominating Committee Chair Paul Durham. According to Durham, if anyone wishs to submit their name, or nominate someone they can contact him directly by e-mail at paul@ news / politics / business / opinion
paulwdurham.com. “Following the elections, the newly elected Chair will be appointing the membership of the four standing committees. If someone wants to become more involved with the Caucus, but doesn’t want to be elected to an office, I hope they consider becoming a member of the Fundraising Committee, Membership Committee, Rules & Bylaws Committee or the Regional Advisory Committee,” said Durham. The Arizona Democratic Party formally recognized the formation of the LGBT Caucus in 2008. Since then the Caucus has participated inside the Democratic Party to ensure the views and needs of Arizona’s LGBT community are heard and met. Governed by an Executive Committee the Caucus is open to ideas and participation by LGBT and allied people from all walks of life throughout Arizona. For more information visit azlgbtdems.org. ntouchaz.com | February 2011 | Issue #79 | 9
LOCAL NEWS
The ABC’s of coming out By Luis Garcia Community activist Jason Green’s dedication is paying off. His first book, “The ABCs of Coming Out,” is gaining local support. Fans recently gathered for a book signing at Mt. of Olives Lutheran Church in Phoenix . Since then Green has donated copies of the book to local youth groups and LGBT support groups. “It’s important for organizations such as PFLAG and 1n10 to have this book,” said Green. I know parents and family members who have read the book who have told me that they were not aware of some of the steps individuals take to ‘come out’. They loved it.” According to Green he was compelled to write the book because of the “coming out” horror stories he has heard while fighting for equal rights. “I don’t want another individual to have to endure the pain and suffering that can result from coming out,” said Green. ”Coming out should not yield isolation and depression. Coming out should not make you want to take your life because of the shame or guilt. On the contrary, it should bring you closer to friends and family; and it should give you a sense of freedom and pride. Coming out should be a personal revelation that allows you to walk in truth knowing that you are being honest with who you are.” Former 1n10 volunteer Babe Caylor praises the book. She told ‘N Touch that the book is very well written and easy for youth to understand.
“You can tell he put his heart in it,” said Caylor. “From a local perspective the youth can have someone that they can relate to here in the Valley. He is someone who continues to show that it does get better.” Green has been an activist for the LGBT community for over a decade. He is the founder of UGIMA (United Gay Informed Men of Africandescent). He’s also a member of Soul Purpose AZ (a member of the International Federation of Black Prides). He has been honored by that organization for his on-going work of activism with their Community Involvement award. Green is also one of the facilitators of Arizona’s Man2Man, a weekend long retreat that allows men who love men an opportunity to build relationships with other members of their community while simultaneously learning about sexual health, physical health, spiritual health, re-
lationship health and emotional health. Green has served on the Board of Directors for the Arizona Advocacy Network (an alliance on a mission to develop a progressive Arizona) and on the board of This Is H.O.W. (an all transgender half-way house). He was one of the original organizers of the Arizona Democrats Stonewall Caucus (formerly the Q-Caucus) and has served as the VP of State for the Arizona Young Democrats. An active blogger, his blog The J Spot jasonhowardgreen.com regularly addresses issues important to the LGBT African-American community. “Coming out was one of the greatest things I have ever done. It is only because of coming out that I have been able to enjoy fifteen years with my wonderful partner. I have a terrific relationship with my friends and family based on trust and mutual respect. And I am able to navigate through this world at work, in church, and through the community with the knowledge that I don’t have to lie about or hide who I am,” said Green. To purchase the ABCs of Coming Out visit jasonhowardgreen.com. The ABCs is also is available at Changing Hands Bookstore ( 6428 S. McClintock Drive , Tempe AZ 85283 ) and at Off Chute Too ( 4115 N. 7th Avenue , Phoenix, AZ 85013).
Rainbow Cactus turns two North Phoenix bar is closer than you think By Joseph Gaxiola On March 17, 2011 Rainbow Cactus Saloon will mark its 2nd anniversary. Karen Bovard, owner of the bar, invites everyone to join in the fun. The neighborhood bar has best been described by regulars as the “Gay Cheers of Phoenix”. Having served in the military, Bovard displays all the flags of the branches of the military as well as a plaque thanking all the LGBT service members who have served their country. Since its opening, Rainbow Cactus has hosted many events from fundraisers to parties and even a renewing of a couple’s wedding vows. AGRA, the Imperial Court of Arizona, QSpeak, Joshua Tree Feeding Program, Phoenix Pride and ‘N Touch News Magazine have all held fundraisers at the north Phoenix establishment. Rainbow Cactus Saloon is home to the Sassy Sisters Show hosted by Sissy Collins. The Sassy Sisters Show is one of the oldest drag troupes in the Valley of the Sun. At the annual Sassy Sister Show 10 | Issue #79 | February 2011 | ntouchaz.com
which benefits the Logan’s Playground Toy Drive the troupe raised over $1,400 in cash and toys. This year marked the first time Rainbow Cactus Saloon participated in the Phoenix Pride Royalty Pageant system. On November 21, 2010 the first ever Miss Rainbow Cactus Pageant was held, with Kedence McKenzie winning the title. Other events have included ‘N Touch News
Magazine’s “Woman of the Year” presentation to Meg Sneed and Sissy Collins being named “Mother of Rainbow Cactus for life.” Rainbow Cactus Saloon also boasts four dart teams in the G.L.A.D. league. Rainbow Cactus is sponsoring a Toga Party on Saturday, Jan. 29, Country Idol on Feb. 4, a Super Bowl Party on Feb. 6 and a Valentine’s Day Dance on Saturday, Feb.12. The monthly Sassy Sister’s Show is on Saturday, February 19. Upcoming fundraisers at Rainbow Cactus Saloon include Friends of NuTowne on Feb.13, Arizona Cancer Charities on Feb. 26and Joshua Tree Feeding Program on Feb. 27. Rainbow Cactus Saloon is located at 15615 N Cave Creek Road in Phoenix, but don’t let the location fool you. As Tracey Stewart of ‘N Touch News Magazine said, “Rainbow Cactus is closer than you think.” news / politics / business / opinion
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS How Closet Ball works is you enter first as your birth gender then you have one hour for your creator to transform you into the opposite gender, finally you entertain as your new character. If you are ready to come out of the closet and transform into a drag king or drag queen, you can download the rules and contestant application at imperialcourtaz.org.
Gay dart league starting Phoenix - The G.L.A.D. winter/spring season starts Jan. 18 at various bars around the Valley. After completing a very successful summer/fall season, the league was able to raise over $11,400 for AGAPE, Y.E.P. /1in10, and the Arizona Animal Welfare League. The dart league players will be voting for the charities will take place in February at Cherry Bar. This season Bar 1, Bunkhouse Saloon, Charlie’s, Cherry Bar, Cruisin 7th, Kobalt Bar, Oz, Pumphouse II, Rainbow Cactus, Roscoe’s, The Rock, and Z Girl Club will all be hosting dart leagues. So if you are out and about on a Tuesday night come and cheer on the dart players as they compete and raise money.
GLBT Citizen’s Advisory meeting The first GLBT Citizen’s Police Advisory will be held Tuesday, Jan. 18 at 6 p.m. at the Community Church of Hope. Kellie McGhee, PD’s Bias-Crimes Detective will be on hand to answer questions. CCH is located at 4129 N. 7th Ave. Enter off of 6th Drive. All are welcome.
1n10 heads west Phoenix - Starting Jan. 20, 1n10 reaches out to LGBTQ youth and young adults in the West Valley! “We have been working hard to expand our programs out to the West Valley and now we have done it! January 20th we will be hosting our first youth group at the JAG Center in Glendale,” said Executive Director Nick Ray. For more information about this exciting new addition please visit the programs section of 1n10.org!
Come out of that closet Phoenix - The Closet Ball: A Magical Night of Transformation will be held Jan. 29. The Closet Ball is for all those closeted drag kings and drag queens out there who would like to do drag but just don’t have the help to get started.
12 | Issue #79 | February 2011 | ntouchaz.com
mission to build a safe, strong and healthy community by helping Arizona youth and adults cope effectively with the challenges of life. This is achieved through compassionate and innovative prevention, counseling, crisis and training services. The Jeremyah 5K Memorial Walk: In its firth year, this 5K Walk allows people to gather to remember those they’ve lost to suicide, and connect with others who have been impacted by suicide. With rates on the rise, more and more people are left in the wake of this tragedy. Suicide is the 8th leading cause of death in Arizona. There is an average of eight attempts of suicide daily in our state. There are more than 34,000 suicides annually in the USA. It is estimated that for every suicide there are at least six loved ones left behind. We call them survivors. Based on this estimate, it has been suggested that there are now at least 4.5 million American survivors of suicide.
Closet Ball 2010: A Magical Night of Transformation will be held at the Crown Plaza-Airport. Doors open at 6 p.m. with Closet Ball beginning at 7:15 p.m. Closet Ball proceeds go to benefit the Golden Sapphire Scorpion Scholarship Award and The SOCO Spanish Orchid Legend of the Phoenix Burial Fund. Suggested door donation is $15. Contestant entry fee is $40.
Your voice, your choice: Women’s Health Lobby Day 2011 Phoenix - Planned Parenthood invites you to the 2011 Women’s Health Lobby Day at the State Capitol, Feb. 8. Be their guest for lunch, listen to great speakers and meet with your legislators! Join others at the Capitol anytime from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. to learn about important issues affecting access to health care and reproductive rights in our state. Learn how the process of law-making works and how YOU can make a difference by advocating for a more pro-choice, pro-woman and compassionate Arizona. If you are interested in making appointments with your legislators and need help, please email advocate@ppaz.org. The Capitol is located at 1700 W. Washington St. in Phoenix.
Memorial Walk to support survivors of suicide Phoenix - The public is invited to walk in memory of loved ones who have been lost to suicide Feb. 12. The walk supports La Frontera - EMPACT-Suicide Prevention Center and its
There will be a variety of ways for participants to honor their loved ones and prevent the ranks of “survivors” from growing in the future: · Walking and offering donations to support EMPACT-Suicide Prevention Center and its work supporting those affected by suicide, as well as its prevention programs; · Family and friends can walk as a team united by the lost loved one; and · Get educated on the signs of suicide and the myths associated with the issue. Registration starts at 8 a.m. with the walk beginning at 9:30 a.m. Refreshments will be provided. Tempe’s Kiwanis Park – Fiesta Ramada is located at 6111 South All-America Way (Mill Ave. and All American Way) in Tempe. To register for the walk, offer monetary or inkind donations, please call: Sandra McNally, Prevention Manager - EMPACT-Suicide Prevention Center, 480-784-1514, ext. 1219 or email her at Sandra.McNally@empact-spc.com.
Reverend to receive Caylor Award Phoenix - Reverend Patrick Stout of the Community Church of Hope will be receiving the Caylor Award at 1n10’s second annual Fresh Brunch on Feb. 20. Join 1n10 in honoring all of Rev. Stout’s hard work serving and supporting the LGBTQ youth of our community. This award really goes to the entirecongregation, but they won’t all fit on the stage!
news / politics / business / opinion
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS Fly!
Desert Voices presents “DV3D: the Fifties”
Phoenix - Free yourself to let go of inhibi-
tions and create the life that you want! Gain knowledge of the principles that will empower and change your life forever! Embrace your true self and realize your amazing potential. Create new thought patterns and see circumstances and people in a new light. Find long sought-after forgiveness for yourself and others. Find strength and healing in nature and in creation around you. Learn how to give and receive feedback without hurt or criticism. Join Charley Coppinger and others in discovering the power of personal growth and freedom. Attend Fly! A seminar to help you empower and awaken to your life. Come Fly with us, Saturday Feb. 26. Registration at 8:30am. Seminar 9 a.m.6 p.m. Lunch provided. Seminar fee is $160 with 25% off if you register before Jan. 3. To register call Coppinger at 602-980-6526 or go online at charlescoppinger. org. Lets Fly!
LGBT youth services consolidated in 2011 Prescott - The Pride Center is pleased to announce that QsquaredYouth and the Prescott Pride Center are consolidating services for LGBT youth under one roof this year. Members of the Q2Youth leadership team have joined
news / politics / business / opinion
forces with the Pride Center to create a brand new youth services alliance for the Prescott area. This new unified group will reduce duplication of services in the small community and allow each organization to maximize existing resources for the benefit of local LGBT youth. The youth services alliance currently consists of educators, counselors, parents, activists, and community members who are committed to developing a strong, multi-level strategy to serve LGBT youth. As the alliance progresses, LGBT kids will also take on significant leadership roles within the group, assuring that youth programming will always remain relevant and engaging. The alliance has already begun to partner with mainstream youth organizations and is actively working to create a wider web of resources suitable for LGBT kids. If you’d like to get involved or support the new youth services alliance, please contact Seráh Blain at 224-558-9594 or Frankie Reynolds at 928443-8520.
Tucson - Start the new year with a lively look back to the ‘Fabulous Fifties’ as Desert Voices, under the artistic of Chris Tackett, transports you back to the early days of the baby boom generation, and the wonder styles, stories, and of course, the sensational sounds.
DV3D: The Fifties will explore the social climate of the post war years and the battle between the change and conformity. For lesbians and gays, after discovering like-minded people during the war, they found them themselves closeted once more. Forced to silently accept their return to invisibility, the subtle search for ‘people like us’ began anew. “DV3D: the Fifties”will be performed Jan. 22 (7:30 pm) and Jan. 23 (3:00 pm) at the Proscenium Theatre, Center for the Arts, Pima West Continued on page 18 >
ntouchaz.com | February 2011 | Issue #79 | 13
POLITICS
One-on-one with candidate Greg Stanton By Luis Garcia
L
GBT ally and former City of Phoenix City Councilman Greg Stanton has joined what could become a crowded field in the race to become the next mayor of Phoenix. Stanton will be leaving his post as the deputy attorney general at the Arizona Attorney General’s Office. He served nine years in the Phoenix city council, representing District 6, which includes the Biltmore, Ahwatukee Foothills, Arcadia and North Central communities after being appointed in 2000. So is this something you have been thinking about for some time? Something like this you have to think about it for a long time. I have a family with two kids. This was a very important decision which I had to weigh a lot of certain factors and I am lucky that my wife is supportive. She believes in what I want to accomplish as mayor and wants me to be successful. The time was just right for me. What are your qualifications to run the city of Phoenix? Well first of all I am a local kid. I grew up in west Phoenix with a working class family. My dad took the city bus to and from work for 25 years as he sold shoes for JC Penny. When I went to college I came back because I love this town. I have been around for the economic highs and lows. I am a big believer that we need to fundamentally change our
economy, make it more sustainable and make it more diverse. I have served nine years in the Phoenix City Council and loved every minute of it. I know how to work with the city staff, other elected officials and our community. I have the experience, work ethic and the passion to do a great job as mayor. What are your plans to better the economy? We have done the same things for far too long in this city. When the economic downfall hit we got hit harder than the rest of the county. Phoenix can compete successfully in the international economy. We need to partner with higher education. We have to work on reducing our drop out rate. Focus in on science technology, engineering and math those are the jobs that are really going to create the jobs of the future. We can’t really rely on growth and we certainly can’t do give-a-ways. They send the wrong message to the country and the world telling them that we are not serious about creating a higher wage and more diverse economy. The main message is that we have to be a lot smarter about economic development. And that means occasionally saying no to deals that are just not good for the long term interest of Phoenix. What are your other priorities if you take office? Number one is education. If Phoenix school districts are not
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strong all of the other goals that we have as a city cannot be successful. Our long term interests and the long term interest of our public schools are directly aligned. The mayor has to use the bully pulpit of the office even more effectively. More can be done. We need to stand up for our public schools including enhancing our after school programs. The bottom line is Phoenix needs to do even more for education and we know for sure that the legislature is going in the opposite direction. Public safety is a big priority. We need to keep our commitment to community policing. The police officers need to know their community. Then need to be aware of their community leaders so they could be the eyes and ears of the police department. Clean energy and sustainability is important. Phoenix has done a lot and we need to continue to lead by example. I am also a big believer in the importance of arts and culture in our community. That is sometimes the first things to be cut and that is a big mistake. Arts and Culture and economic development are one in the same. We need have support that part of the community. What are some of your experiences with the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender community? The city of Phoenix owes a great debt of gratitude to the LGBT community. There has been a renaissance of popularity of central Phoenix neighborhoods. That is because
the LGBT community came in early and built up those neighborhoods. On a personal level I have been proud to support the LGBT community. I have voted to support domestic partner benefits on the city council. For me that was a no brainer. When the vote of a domestic registry came up again that was a no brainer. I consider my relationship with the LGBT community a true partnership. It has been a great positive supportive relationship on both our sides. (Stanton received the 2009 Building Bridges Champion Award from Equality Arizona) For more information on Greg Stanton, upcoming events, and volunteer information or to find out more in the issues visit GregStantonforMayor. com or call 602-882-7335. Next month we will hear from mayoral candidate, Wes Gullett.
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YOUTH
What the season
has taught me By Michael Weakley, Director of Programs, 1n10, Inc.
D
ecember is such an insane time for all of us and it seems as if you are never able to get it all done and satisfy everyone. You have to shop for this, and hunt for that, and go to that party and rsvp to that other party ( with no intention of showing), give a dollar here, refuse a dollar there, eat-bemerry-and-smile-with-joy until your teeth ache from the constant smiles of thanksgiving and love that is surrounding you. And on top of all that, eat, love, pray, mistle-toe, white elephant, fudge, trees, cleaning, family and oh yeah, that guy who died. Who? You know, oh what’s him name, yeah Jesus, he is the reason for the season and all ( my favorite is bad cliché’s all winter long)….it can be a little overwhelming. It’s no wonder the month of December/January sells as much booze as six months combined at any other time of the year. However, this past holiday season I found more joy, love, happiness, balance, and reassurance then I ever have in my 33 years on this planet. Blame it on maturity or however you want to define it, but this year I took the season into my own hands and I insured myself and the heavens that I would enjoy it thoroughly and I did just that. What is my secret you ask? Boundaries, boundaries, boundaries! I learn to say “yes” when appropriate, needed and necessary and “no when I was unable, unaware or just too darn tired to assist, participate or represent. I began asking for help, being direct when I needed something and being open to it when others were willing to help. I asked a new volunteer to make a TON of mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese, with extremely short notice and I had confidence that he would prevail (and he did). I did not feel the need to micromanage every activity that my name was attached to or involved with, and I was genuinely happy to news / politics / business / opinion
see them all successful without my direct participation. I did not question my boyfriend anytime he made a plan for us this holiday and I rearranged my schedule for him, not the other way around. I played poker with my dad and took my grandmother to Rock Springs to have fried oysters, a request she made two years ago! I was able to be a part of my community, my family and my life without completely going bonkers. One of the most amazing things I got to do however was to see an incredible bunch of young people gather together on Christmas day, surrounded by the sounds of Mariah Carey, rejoicing and hugging with friends they had not seen in months, friends they saw last night and new friends from everywhere. I got to witness these fabulous young people eat delicious treats cooked by those willing to give up their Christmas day to come spend it with queer kids, who for whatever reason had chosen to spend the day at the 1n10/ YEP drop-in center. And the most amazing part of the day, was when all of these wonderful young people showed bright smiles and appreciation for all the amazing gifts that the community, OUR community, had given so that every LGBTQ youth that did not receive gifts this year from their family, received from our “family”. Ninetyone youth were given the brightest of holidays this year and for that I am filled with joy. It all happened because I learned to balance this year, like a crazy Italian spinning plates, I figured out the recipe to enjoy the busyness of the season. Boundaries are an important part of life, I learned this from a great friend years ago and I have been working on them for years. It enables me to say no and empowers me to say yes. I realize this all looks great on paper and stuff, but what about real life. You will not always do it or get it right, there will be times when you are completely unbalanced and overloaded and that is fine. My hope is that we all start to notice when we are too busy to enjoy our own lives, appreciate what we have, love our families (however defined) a little deeper and try to find a place of joy in the hectic world we call life. Life, whether we want to admit it or not, can be a fabulous part of the day, step back, as my grandmother says, “smell the roses” ( unless of course you are allergic), enjoy a glass of tea and live the dream. YOU are responsible for your life. ‘N Touch is happy to donate this space to 1n10, an organization that helps countless young people, gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning and straight. For information on 1n10 and their services, go to 1n10.org or facebook.com/1n10.org. ntouchaz.com | February 2011 | Issue #79 | 15
NATIONAL NEWS
Sacked Navy captain once had a bright future
NORFOLK,
Va.
(AP)
-
Navy Capt. Owen Honors was an officer with a bright future, a hotshot fighter jock who rose to become commander of one of the most storied ships in the fleet, the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise. His undoing was a sense of humor that seemed a throwback to the Navy’s raucous, macho Tailhook days nearly two decades ago. Honors, 49, was sacked as commander of the Enterprise Jan. 4 for what the Navy called a “profound lack of good judgment and professionalism” in making and showing to his crew raunchy comic videos three or four years ago. In the videos, Honors used gay slurs and pantomimed masturbation. Once on track to be an admiral, Honors has been reassigned to administrative duties. Military experts said his career is probably over. “Unfortunately, when you’re an officer with that kind of responsibility and you make a big error in judgment, the price that you pay is often high, particularly if the mistake you made gets a lot of publicity,” said Stephen Saltzburg, general counsel of the National Institute of Military Justice and a law professor at George Washington University. The son of a small-town police commissioner in upstate New York, Honors graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1983 and attended the U.S. Naval Fighter Weapons School, which produces the Navy’s Top Gun pilots. Honors flew 85 combat missions in three theaters, landing on 15 different carriers. “Everybody regarded him as a
great fighter pilot – a guy that you would want to enter a dogfight with,” said Ward Carroll, a former aviator who flew with Honors. Carroll was “Goose” to Honors’ “Maverick,” Carroll said, comparing himself and his friend to the main characters in the movie “Top Gun.” With his boyish looks, his sandy blond hair and his first two initials, O.P., he was dubbed “Opie” by his comrades. He was funny and irreverent but always professional, Carroll said. He said he doesn’t remember Honors ever using the homophobic words or expressing the anger seen in the videos. “The guy on the video, I don’t recognize,” he said. Honors and Carroll served in the 1990s during the Tailhook scandal, in which scores of naval pilots were accused of groping female officers and engaging in other loutish, fratboy behavior at a Las Vegas convention in 1991. The scandal rocked the Navy and wrecked the careers of some of its top leaders. Carroll said he does not know whether Honors was at the convention. “Anybody who stayed in the Navy after that, whether they obeyed the lines is one thing, but they certainly knew where the lines were,” Carroll said, which is why he said Honors’ conduct surprised him. “It is just vulgar. I’m at odds to figure out how Opie thought that was going to be all right.” He added: “I don’t know how you emerge from that time and not understand where the lines are, not to mention assume positions of command along the way.” Honors was the Enterprise’s executive officer, or No. 2 in command, when he made the videos. As XO, he was responsible for virtually every aspect of life on the ship, a virtual city with a population of nearly 6,000. His duties included everything from keeping the ship store stocked and the barber shop running to planning the daily routine and keeping up morale. He was promoted to commander
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last May, taking over the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, a celebrated ship that saw action in Vietnam and took part in the quarantine of Cuba during the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. The Navy has about a dozen carriers, and each receives a new commander every three years. Those who are successful often are promoted to admiral. Sailors aboard the ship have praised Honors’ leadership skills and described him as sensitive to the morale and well-being of his crew. He used humor to help the crew blow off steam after dangerous and sometimes monotonous duty that included extended tours of the Mideast during the Iraq War. “Capt. Honors is a very professional person, but he knew when to have fun,” one of those who served on the Enterprise, Jessica Zabawa,
23, of Colorado, said in an e-mail, adding that most of those who worked under Honors would do it again. She said that the videos were to help those on board unwind, and that she never felt offended. Most of the time, Honors used the videos to make fun of current events, even the Navy, she said. Nevertheless, Carroll said Honors violated the trust – “sacrosanct and empirical” – that was bestowed upon him. “It’s not somebody’s PC rules. It’s not some cabal’s agenda. These are the rules that are time-tested and printed in blood. When you violate those, you have to face the consequences,” Carroll said. “I feel very bad for him, but I think that at the end of the day, he knows he screwed up.”
First US transgender trial judge is sworn in
LOS ANGELES - Victoria Kolakowski made history this week when she became the first trans person to be sworn in as a trial judge in the US. The trans campaigner, who has over 20 years of legal and judicial experience, took the oath of office at a special session of the Superior Court of California on Tuesday. Her wife and parents were present at the ceremony. Speaking before the ceremony, Ms Kolakowski told Dot429.com: “It’s been very hard as a transgender person. “We’re a community that’s chronically under- and unemployed and I’ve encountered that sort of discrimination in the past, but we’re making so much more progress now. In terms of my career, I think part of it is hard work and perseverance, and part of it is good luck.” California state Senator Ellen Corbett introduced her as “a friend, a colleague, a trailblazer,” saying, “as
we celebrate this new decade we mark our own start and our own first….We all know the tremendous hurdles that [she] and the transgender community have overcome.” In the race, she beat deputy district attorney John Creighton with 51 to 48 percent of the vote. news / politics / business / opinion
NATIONAL NEWS BRIEFS
New governors call for marriage equality NEW YORK - In inaugural speeches, the new governors of New York and Rhode Island each called on their state legislatures to pass bills that would legalize marriage for same-sex couples. “When marriage equality is the law in Rhode Island, we honor our forefathers who risked their lives and fortune in the pursuit of human equality,” said Gov. Lincoln Chafee, I-R.I. Rhode Island House Speaker Gordon D. Fox, who is openly gay, said he expects the Legislature will vote on the issue early in the current session. “I want to be the governor who signs the law that makes equality a reality in the state of New York,” said Gov. Andrew Cuomo, D-N.Y., at his inauguration.
tary is minimized as much as possible,” McCain said on Fox Business. “It is a law and I have to do whatever I can to help the men and women who are serving, particularly in combat, cope with this new situation. I will do everything I can to make it work.” The Arizona senator and 2008 presidential nominee has been an outspoken critic of repealing the policy right up through its passage. But in a reverse of course on Thursday, McCain said he would do whatever he could to help implement the policy’s repeal. McCain showed additional signs of softening the harsh rhetoric he’d used over the past two years against another Obama administration priority: On NBC’s “Today” show on Wednesday, McCain said he’d welcome comprehensive immigration reform once the borders had been secured. During 2008’s Arizona Senate campaign, McCain moved to the right on a number of issues in response to then-Arizona Rep. J.D. Hayworth’s challenge for his seat.
Ice skater Johnny Weir reveals he is gay
McCain: ‘Don’t ask’ repeal will work WASHINGTON - Sen. John McCain (RAriz.) said Jan. 6, he would work to help implement the repeal of the military’s “Don’t ask, don’t tell” policy, despite his opposition to that legislation. McCain signaled he had made peace with the lame-duck bill to do away with the military’s ban on openly gay and lesbian service members, which he had sharply criticized. “I think I have to do everything I can to make sure that the impact on the morale, retention, recruitment and battle effectiveness of the mili-
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Chicago, IL - In his new memoir, “Welcome to My World,” figure skating champion Johnny Weir reveals he’s gay. On the cover, he’s wearing black high heels, a black fur and posing under a disco ball. In excerpts published in People magazine, Weir talks -- somewhat obliquely -- about his sexuality. “In a sexual way, I’m gay,” he said. “I would marry a woman tomorrow if it struck me. I don’t think sex and relationships necessarily have to go together.” Although Weir’s figure skating costumes might strike any unbiased observer as flaming, Weir insists that his sexuality doesn’t play into his performance on the ice. “I don’t feel the need to express my sexual being because it’s not part of my sport,” he said. Weir said that the recent string of gay teen suicides had a lot to do with his decision to come out of the closet. “With people killing themselves and being scared into the closet, I hope that even just one person can gain strength from my story,” he said. Last year, Weir helped raise money for The
Trevor Project, a non-profit focused on cutting down on the suicide rate among gay and lesbian youth. Weir placed sixth in the most recent Winter Olympics and third in the most recent U.S. Nationals.
Gov. Jerry Brown makes first LGBT appointment SACRAMENTO – California Gov. Jerry Brown has named former Assemblymember John Laird as secretary of the Natural Resources Agency. Laird was one of the first openly gay elected officials to serve in the state legislature. The agency is responsible for preserving the state’s natural resources, something that is a passion of Laird’s. During his tenure in the legislature, Laird spearheaded several vital pieces of legislation barring discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, including the Civil Rights Housing Act of 2006. “Equality California is delighted to congratulate John Laird, who has an exceptional track record as a tireless public servant committed to bettering our state,” said Geoff Kors, Equality California executive director. “His appointment is a source of tremendous pride for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Californians, and we wish him the best in his new position.”
ntouchaz.com | February 2011 | Issue #79 | 17
WORLD NEWS BRIEFS
Mickey Rourke wants to play gay rugby star London - Welsh rugby star in talks with a scriptwriter about film of his life, after Mickey Rourke said he wanted to play him. Rugby player Gareth Thomas has confirmed he is working with a writer on a film about his life which previous reports suggest could star the Oscar-nominated actor, Mickey Rourke. Rourke told Jonathan Ross he would like to play Thomas, who came out as gay in 2009, in a film. The comments raised eyebrows because the actor is 58, while Thomas is 36. “To be a man who plays rugby who is gay and to live with that secret for the amount of years that Gareth had, to perform at the high level that he performed at, it takes a lot of courage,” Rourke said in interviews. He has also met with Thomas to discuss the role. Thomas’s manager told BBC Wales: “A scriptwriter has been chosen for the film and is getting to know Gareth. The idea is that he will be with him throughout January to get to know Gareth as well as he can. “Mickey is extremely hands-on in the whole process of the film and is fully intent in bringing this to fruition.” Asked via Twitter how he could be played by a man in his late 50s, Thomas tweeted: “My story is of feelings, and overcoming. It’s about bringing the inside out, it has nothing to do with a visual presence.” The rugby player, who currently plays for rugby league side the Crusaders, is said to be the world’s only openly gay current professional player in a team sport. He was voted the most influential gay person in the UK last year and received Stonewall’s Hero of the Year award in October.
not be recognised because they are deemed not to offer as many rights as Irish marriages or civil partnerships. Unions from 27 countries or states will be recognised; 17 of which currently give gay couples the right to marry. Couples will be automatically considered as civil partners and will not need to register. Brian Sheehan of the Gay and Lesbian Equality Network said: “Same-sex couples who have already celebrated their relationships and made formal commitments to each other by having a civil marriage or civil partnership in another country will today have those relationships recognised in Ireland. This recognition will provide significant protections for these couples.” The first Irish civil partnership ceremonies will take place in early April.
Help count homeless youth
Brazil OKs in vitro fertilization for gay couples Rio de Janeiro (AP) - Brazil’s national association of doctors has approved new rules for in vitro fertilization that let same-sex couples and single people qualify for the process. A statement from the organization says that the change “was a demand of modern society. The rules published Jan. 8 replaces guidelines that were in place for nearly two decades. In vitro fertilization involves mixing egg and sperm in a laboratory, then transferring the embryo into the womb. The new standards also allow fertilization using eggs or sperm from the deceased with prior approval, and impose limits on how many embryos can be implanted.
Ireland recognises foreign gay marriage and partnerships
LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS
Dublin - Gay couples living in Ireland who have married or had a civil partnership abroad will be recognised as civil partners. The change is part of Ireland’s new civil partnership laws, which give gay couples almost all the rights of marriage. However, couples who wed in countries where gay marriage is legal will find their unions downgraded to civil partnerships. And some unions, such as French PACS, will
Campus, 2202 W. Anklam Rd. For more call 520-791-9662, email info@desertvoices.org or go to desertvoices.org.
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gram is looking for volunteer tutors for its newest service, Project PREP (Positive Respectful Educational Possibilities), funded with the help of a grant from the Alliance Fund. You don’t need to hold a degree in reading, writing, math, science or any of the other traditional areas of study, just an aptitude or interest in any of these subjects and a desire to help LGBTQ youth. Participants will undergo a specialized volunteer orientation, separate from the regularly scheduled one for Eon that takes place this month. In addition, volunteers will participate in a tutor training to gain specific information and skills necessary to building safe, trusting relationships with LGBTQ youth. PREP is slated to begin offering tutoring in February; the tutor training is scheduled to begin in late January. If you would like to be a volunteer tutor or to find out more about PREP, e-mail Zami Hyemingway at zhyemingway@wingspan.org.
Continued from page 13
New Eon tutoring program needs volunteers
Tucson - Every winter, hundreds of volunteers are needed to walk the streets of Tucson and greater Pima County interviewing and enumerating homeless people to assess the need in our community. This annual survey of homeless individuals, known as Street Count, is facilitated by the Tucson Pima Collaboration to End Homelessness (TPCH), the local Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Continuum of Care planning group for Southern Arizona. The count, this year on Jan. 26, helps ensure that more than $7 million in support comes into the community annually to provide for housing and care to the thousands of homeless children, youth, families and adults. Enumerators/interviewers are provided with training by experienced outreach workers and placed in teams of three or more to conduct the count. On the same evening as Street Count, Eon and SAGA (the Southern Arizona Gender Alliance) will host their monthly SAGA Hot Meal for LGBT and Straight-Ally youth ages 12-23 at Wingspan, 430 E. Seventh St. As part of Street Count, they will be interviewing those who attend in an effort to more accurately document the hundreds of homeless LGBT young people in the community. Kevin Jackson, Wingspan’s Homeless Youth Project coordinator, is organizing a group of volunteers to canvas areas of central Tucson on the morning of Wednesday, Jan. 26. If you’re interested in helping make sure that the needs of homeless individuals are addressed in our city, please contact him at 520-624-1779, Ext. 115 or kjackson@wingspan.org.
Tucson - Wingspan’s Eon Youth Pro-
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Tucson International Jewish Film Festival
Presents:
Fabulous Faygeleh LGBT Film Series January 30
Sunday, January 30 Grand Cinemas Crossroads 6 at Grant & Swan in Tucson 1 p.m. Double Feature
Tell Them Anything You Want (USA, 2009, English, 39 minutes)
An intriguing documentary on Maurice Sendak, the children’s author who wrote Where the Wild Things Are. Viewers don’t have to be fans of Sendak’s books to enjoy this film.
Walk on Water (Israel, 2004, English/Hebrew/German with subtitles, 105 minutes)
Eyal, an Israeli Mossad agent, is given the mission to track down and kill the very old Alfred Himmelman, an ex-Nazi officer, who might still be alive. 3:30 p.m.
Gay Days (Israel, 2009, Hebrew with subtitles, 71 minutes)
In 1985 there were a handful of openly gay people in Israel. Excluded from public office and oppressed by violence and discrimination, the gay and lesbian population existed underground. 5:45 p.m.
LGBT Jewish Inclusion Project Sponsor Reception Buddy’s Grill,4821 E. Grant Rd. (following the showing of Tell them Anything You Want and Walk on Water) Appetizers and No Host Bar $18 per person/$36 per couple includes ticket to the two films and the reception
Individual Movie Tickets:
$8 Adults, $7 JCC Members, Students and Seniors Purchase tickets at www.tucsonjewishfilmfestival.org, at the Tucson Jewish Community Center, or by calling the TIJFF Hotline at 520-615-5432
FACT: The Maricopa County LGB Community* are at a 30% higher risk for alcohol abuse than the national average.
Be AWARE, Be RESPONSIBLE www.1VCC.org *Respondents of the 2009 needs assessment survey. This project has been funded in part by Magellan Health Services of Arizona through an agreement with the Arizona Department of Health Services, Division of Behavioral Health Services.
Your attorney doesn’t have to be family. . . but it helps. • Domestic Partnership & Divorce • Business & Corporate Contracts • DUI & Criminal • Wills & Probate • Real Estate • Landlord/Tenant
Jane O. Ross 668 N. 44th St., Suite 300 Phoenix, AZ 85008
602.685.1177
Gay Chambers
Information
BUSINESS
Job openings at 1n10 1n10, providing safe space and support for LGBT youth and their allies for over 15 years, seeks a full-time prevention coordinator and part-time camp director.
Phoenix Gay Chamber
Net Mix
January 19 at Fred’s Restaurant 7:30p.m. Fred’s Restaurant is on the 2nd level of Barney’s of New York Department Store at Scottsdale Fashion Square. RSVP rsvpevents@gpglcc.org
Lunch
Feb. 4 from 11a.m.-1 p.m. at the Hotel Theodorem, 7353 E. Indian School Road in Scottsdale. The Cielo Restaurant inside the Hotel Theodore offers gourmet Italian dishes in a sleek, sophisticated and relaxed atomsphere. You must RSVP by emailing RSVPevents@ gpglcc.org
Board of Directors Meeting The GPGLCC Board of Directors meets every month on the second Wednesday at 8 a.m. Members are welcome to attend the meeting. If you wish to address the board, you must do so in writing by emailing Tony Felice at development@gpglcc.org and by calling in advance 602-237-5572.
Tucson Gay Chamber
Breakfast Meeting
The next Breakfast meeting will take place January 20th, 2011 from 7:30-9 a.m. at Hotel Tucson City Center (475 N. Granada Ave.). “Media Buying 101 presented by Belinda Atteberry, Media Director for the Tucson Convention & Visitor’s Bureau.” RSVP at 520-615-6436 or go to Tucsonglbtchamber.org
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The Prevention coordinator will utilize the Sources of Strength (SOS) comprehensive wellness program to create a network of adult and peer LGBTQ youth (ages 14-24) leaders in an aim to create a large network of support for this population in an effort to decrease suicide attempts and thoughts. The prevention coordinator aims to identify peer and adult leaders to participate in SOS training sessions, connect with local social and professional organizations and work with the local LGBTQ community. The prevention coordinator provides ongoing, youth centered suicide prevention training, outreach and support, and helps youth to access other needed services. The prevention coordinator will assist with the overall program objectives at 1n10 based on a positive youth development approach. Principal Accountabilities • Develop and implement a strategy to identify, recruit, and train a team of peer leaders and adult advisors to participate in SOS trainings. • Collect, input and organize youth demographic data, surveys, and monthly reports. • Attend community trainings and continuing education courses in subjects such as Positive Youth Development Programming, mental and health awareness and other issues facing the LGBTQ community. • Refer youth to additional mental, physical and emotional agencies as needed. • Possess knowledge of youth confidentiality and youth rights, which are subject to State and Federal laws and the ability to explain such in terms the client is able to comprehend. • Submit monthly narrative progress reports on needs and accomplishments of program participants related to SOS. • Perform other duties as assigned. • Outreach • Identify organizations, both social and communitybased, to hold SOS trainings and recruit potential adult/ peer participants. • Utilize community, social, educational and resource events to actively engage LGBTQ youth in 1n10 programs. • Knowledge, Skills and Abilities • Knowledge of the cultural, social and economic background of the target population. • Knowledge of behavioral health theories and positive youth development principles. • Knowledge of community resources including those specific to persons within the LGBTQ population.
• Knowledge of depression and suicide issues that pertain to affected populations preferred. • An exceptional level of personal rapport, and patience is necessary
Position Requirements • Bachelor’s degree in social servicerelated field or equivalent combination of education and experience with focus on risk reduction counseling and/or direct experience working with at risk youth. • Two years of social work or counseling related experience and knowledge of suicide/ depression prevention, which has provided the applicant with specific knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the duties of this position, is preferred. • Knowledge of and/or experience with LGBTQ Community/Culture and At-Risk Youth Community/ Culture. • Ability to work in a high energy, sometimes high stress environment. • Reliable transportation required and a full unrestricted Drivers License. • Must pass a criminal background check with a Class I Fingerprint Clearance Card. • Varied hours including evenings & weekends. • Travel required throughout Maricopa County (travel reimbursement provided). • Proficiency with Microsoft Office products.
Benefits Overview • 15 days per year paid time off • 11 days paid holidays • Paid sick time • Salary: $30,000 (Non-negotiable) plus work cell phone and monthly gas allowance • Medical, dental and vision insurance – 1n10 pays 75% This is a grant-funded position and duration of employment is limited strictly to the duration of the current funding. 1n10 will endeavor to secure renewed or alternative funding but no guarantees whatsoever can be made in this regard.
The Camp Director will organize, execute, and evaluate all aspects of a successful LGBTQ youth 4 day leadership camp in Prescott, AZ. Camp is currently scheduled for late August and position is temporary. The position will start half time from April 1 – May 31, 2011 and be full time June 1, through September 30, 2011. Principal Accountabilities • Assess previous camp programming and develop this year’s camp activities and programs. • Develop and execute a successful Counselor In Training (CIT) program and collaborate on the Sources of Strength Training for adult mentors and peer leaders. Continued at right >
news / politics / business / opinion
BUSINESS
Once upon a time... By Dorian Kreiling Not so long ago, there were Sellers wishing to sell their home, make a tidy profit, move on to a (usually) bigger home and live happily ever after. Today, that is called a traditional sale. It is unique; it happens only upon occasion. It sounds almost like a cheesy movie script: (Cue music) SELLER: “I’m a real seller.” BUYER: “Really? I’m a real buyer! I like your home.” SELLER: “Really? I want to sell my home!” TOGETHER: “Let’s get together!” (Break into song and dance reminiscent of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers) Closes can take place in 45 to 60 days. Seller’s and their agents are wisely advertising the merits of these sales. They are usually quick and clean. Short sales are when the Seller owes more than the value of the home. He is requesting the mortgage company (-ies) to participate with him in his loss. As soon as the Seller makes this decision, it is wise to STOP paying your mortgage. Some will disagree with me on this, but it is my opinion that the banks are so overwhelmed that they will not respond to someone who is current on their loan, instead responding to the squeaky wheel (aka the loan that is in deficiency). Yes, your credit will get dinged, but more and more creditors are ignoring the short sale (because of the large amount that are occurring, or looking at the rest of the credit history sans the mortgage to determine creditworthiness.) Typically, the bank will ask for a letter of hardship, financials and mortgage statements. The Seller will not make any money, and if done correctly, he will not spend any money either. Any commission is paid for by the bank. We are doing many short sales and have come to realize that each situation is unique, each bank is handling the process differently, and changes are occurring literally between morning and afternoon. Based on this, we use a third party vendor for all our short sales and oversee the process
from that vantage point. It has worked well for us, although some agents are more comfortable taking a much more hands on approach to the negotiations with the bank. Either way works – let’s face it - you as the Seller just want the house closed. The final way to buy a home is focusing on lender owned homes. Where the short sale process may take upwards of 4-6 months from the time the home is placed on the market to when it is sold, lender owned homes can take 45-60 days. The agent is dealing with the owner (the bank) and the decision is quick. We are encouraging our Buyers to spotlight their search on traditional home sales and bank owned properties. This is where there has been the most activity, and of even greater interest. This is where my fascination with good marketing and appreciation of good salesmanship comes in. Fannie Mae is (finally) getting it. It used to be, with a HUD owned home, one never knew what they were walking into. Would it be clean? Dirty? Smelly? Ugly? Punch holes in the walls? Of late, I am struck by the uniformity of the home’s sale. Construction lockboxes (so the agent never knew who was coming and going) have been replaced by Realtor lockboxes which register each entrant into the home. Each home has been gone over for cleanliness, appearance and pleasant smell. What needs to be repaired of an obvious nature has been. At every home, there is a checklist on the wall reflecting the last time someone came through to make sure the place was up to standard. Fannie Mae has adopted a Realtor 101 approach: For a home to sell, it must be pleasing on all levels to attract the Buyer. Kudos to Fannie Mae’s people. Dorian Kreiling, ABR, E-pro and her partner, Melinda Murphy, GRI of John Hall and Associates may be reached at Ntouch@MelindaMurphy.com or at 623-694-4737.
• Assess and develop all literature associated with camp i.e. application forms, acceptance/denial letters, welcome packets, packing lists, camp schedules, policies and procedures, incident forms, etc. • Assist with general 1n10 program implementation. • Develop a general camp evaluation form to be completed by participants and volunteer staff at the end of camp. • Maintain and review records and evaluations of volunteer staff, campers, programs, and facilities. - • Compile and publish statistics on campers experi-
ence based on camper evaluation forms. • Prepare a final camp evaluation report to be presented to the staff and board of directors after camp.
news / politics / business / opinion
Outreach • Develop and implement a statewide outreach plan to target a diverse range of LGBTQ youth within our demographic. • Conduct outreach throughout Arizona in recruitment of LGBTQ youth to participate in the youth leadContinued on page 37 >
ntouchaz.com | February 2011 | Issue #79 | 25
FITNESS
The best vitamins By Kirk Matthews
A
big “Thank You” for all your questions in the past year – it was a good variety and I’m looking forward to more. And since another year has passed, questions about resolutions and new beginnings are fresh in everyone’s minds yet again. Did you start and complete your goals last year? Did you get part of the way and give up, or let life get in the way? Did you give up entirely if the result wasn’t fast enough or the goal wasn’t realistic? Did you sabotage yourself by worrying about the past instead of focusing on the new goal? Well, whatever the answer, if you haven’t lost interest, that’s the most important part of all… Kirk, I’ve finally decided to get it together for 2011. I have a new job and I have to be at my best to keep proving I’m worth the promotion. I joined a gym again and am getting back into my old routine. My big question is what your idea of the best vitamins would be? I’m 36 and have an OK from my doctor to get active. I’m not overweight, just out of shape. Thanks, Adrian Adrian, Congratulations on the new job, and on your renewed drive to be your healthiest self! When we get into the subject of supplements, many people expect a trainer to talk them into a whole program of juicing fruits and vegetables, making salads, using protein powders, vitamins, amino acids, muscle pumping supplements and so on. But here’s what we know: A major lifestyle shift has a much higher rate of failure than minor adjustments and add-ins – they make sense and they just fit. It’s because the biggest obstacles to adopting new lifestyle changes are: Understanding and Compliance. If you understand what you’re doing and why to do it, you stay on track and comply with your program. The same idea applies to any training you receive in a new job. You learn how and why, implement what you know, and then you make progress. Ultimately, we want you to be the judge -- along with your health care professional -as to how it all meets your 26 | Issue #79 | February 2011 | ntouchaz.com
individual needs. So: evaluate, and evaluate again, and use what makes sense and fits your budget. Supplements should be as defined: To add to your existing diet. If you have a really poor diet, you’re likely to need more help, especially if you can’t or won’t change your overall diet anytime soon. So as far as supplements are concerned, your best bet for understanding what and why is to stick to the “foundations” of good supplements: A good multivitamin: This “fills in the gaps” in your overall diet. A proper multi provides baseline nutrition when the diet doesn’t. Here’s why: Busy 9 to 5 people aren’t exactly eating at organic fitness kiosks at the corner cafes or airports – there just aren’t many (any?) of them, are there. So, since it’s more important that you do eat than not (and if it’s going to be sub-par food), your multi can round out some of the deficiencies. That makes it easy to comply with taking them – you know why to do it. Omega 3 fats (oils): Many health care professionals say these provide protective and antiinflammatory benefits, lowering the risk of heart attack, stroke and various cancers. Some say your skin can act and feel 10 to 20 years younger by taking them. And your skin reflects what’s going on inside your body – it just makes sense. You can get them from cold-water fish: salmon, tuna, herring, sardines, and more. Also from walnuts, flax seeds and dark green veggies. And you can find supplements of Omega 3 in the form of capsules and oils; both from fish and flax as well as a few clever mixes – some of the oils even have a pleasant citrus flavor. I use fresh-pressed flax regularly. You can supplement or eat a regular variety of the foods above, or switch depending on the day. Antioxidants: If you watch TV or read, you’ve heard of these. Simply put: If we look at aging in terms of the body “rusting” (oxidizing) over time, then anything that controls this to some degree just might have the power to enhance the quality and duration of your life. Supplements in this category aren’t usually expensive, as many of them are made from foods that contain them: berries, grapes, tomatoes, broccoli, spinach, garlic and tea. Use a supplement or eat the foods – easy choice there. Trace minerals: Some holistic doctors might mention these first, but here’s why I didn’t: I just
assume you’re eating some organically grown foods. No, I really do. Stop laughing! All right: Most organic farms have a much higher natural mineral balance in their soils than the over-farmed commercial giants. So if you’re eating organic, you’re typically getting more minerals – easy science. Even so, an occasional supplement wouldn’t be a bad idea, and really cheap: Celtic, red or pink salts that come from remote beds and lakes can be added for pennies a week. You can even mix them with your iodized salt if needed – then sprinkle a bit here and there in your daily cooking. Basically, the only category above that wouldn’t typically be diet-based would be your Multivitamin. And since it “fills in the gaps” it’s still one of my most important supplements. If you pick only one supplement, a good multivitamin can be an incredible value in your new program. And if you’re on a smart budget, I strongly recommend Custom Essentials for you -- really for all of you. I take mine every day, and have several clients that do too. You can do the same: your own personalized formula ships to your address after completing one simple test. This was the classification of supplements that I was searching for twenty years ago – when it was around a thousand dollars a month! Before I started this formula, I shopped around and made some well-educated combinations, and that was still around a hundred dollars a month. Custom Essentials is less than sixty-five dollars monthly, and you don’t have to take different formulas: the guesswork is gone. So, call me when you’d like to get started – it’s easy and simple. Adrian, I do hope all of this info helped – Good Luck to you! Naturally, there are other details – it can’t all be covered in short form (like this was short?). And yes, there are other clever add-ons and bonus ideas that make your whole food, supplement supported, full workout, recovery and stress management system more efficient and pleasurable – always available with more in-depth consultations. Call anytime to get your New Year started with your new trainer – I look forward to it! That’s all for now. All the Best to you as you renew your goals and focus in this New Year. As always, keep those questions coming, and stay healthy and well! Kirk Matthews is a multiple Certified Personal Trainer and Professional Nutrition Consultant; answers may contain advice from either or both disciplines. Call: 602-616-9195. Questions: e-mail kirk. matthews@hotmail.com (use “‘n touch” in the subject line). Call or e-mail Kirk anytime to discuss Custom Essentials: Lab-formulated supplements made just for you! And visit: www.sportsclubatcitysquare.com to try before you buy. news / politics / business / opinion
SPORTS
LGBT Sports Leagues Spotlight
land, Oregon (2010). NAGVA Championships XXIX will take place in Houston, Texas in May of 2011. Players who are interested in participating are encouraged to seek out The Desert Volleyball Alliance at desertvolleyball.com. The Desert Volleyball Alliance was established “to promote the pursuit of competitive volleyball for the Arizona LGBT community and its supporters through a balance of athletic and social activities, including recruiting, coaching, mentoring, and development of leagues and tournaments to benefit all individuals.” League play is held at Sports Club at City Square, with competition in B Division and A Division. The next season of competition is scheduled to begin in early March 2011. Sports Club at City Square is located at 4000 North Central Avenue in Phoenix.
Desert Volleyball Alliance to host the inaugural Volley del Sol tournament The Desert Volleyball Alliance is hosting the inaugural Volley del Sol tournament in Phoenix February 19-20, 2011. The tournament is sanctioned by North American Gay Volleyball Association (NAGVA) and will be played on the campus of Arizona State University. Pool play is all day Feb. 19 and the double elimination tournament takes place on Sunday, Feb. 20. The North American Gay Volleyball Association (NAGVA) is a not for profit 501(c) (7) organization, committed to promoting and developing the sport of volleyball in the LGBT community. NAGVA is an organization of over 3,000 members in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Originally founded in 1981 by tournament organizers seeking to standardize rules of play and pool resources, the Association has grown to now host annual tournaments in over 25 cities: Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Columbus, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Irvine, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Louisville, Minneapolis, New York, New Orleans, Pittsburgh, Portland Saint Louis, San Antonio, San Diego, San Jose, San Juan (Puerto Rico), Seattle, Vancouver and Washington D.C. Participating teams come from an even wider array of cities across North America. Leagues also exist in cities that do not currently host a tournament. NAGVA’s playing season begins in early June and culminates with the Association’s Championships tournament held annually over Memorial Day weekend. Cities compete in a bidding process to host the event. Championships have most recently been held in Chicago (2009), Port-
news / politics / business / opinion
Sports leagues of the Valley provide a safe, friendly, and fun social setting for the LGBT community. Whether a new comer, veteran, or a fan, everyone is welcome.
Basketball
Hellraisers Hoops Open Play Sundays from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Sports Club of City Square www. phoenix.ngba.us hellraiserhoops@yahoo.com
Flag Football
PHX Hellraisers Flag Football League
Saturdays 9:00 a.m. January – April Colter Park www.phoenixflagfootball.com info@phoenixflagfootball.com 602.284.9207
Rugby – Men Phoenix Storm
Get up! Get active! Get involved! The Nineteenth annual Grand Canyon State Winter Games already the nations largest amateur Winter Sports Festival, is highlighting 44 sports over 17 weekends. The games will take place all across the state of Arizona from January thru April. Athletes of all ages and abilities are eligible to compete. Events include: Adventure Racing, Archery, Arm Wrestling, Baseball, Basketball, Baton Twirling, Bowling, Curling, Desert Challenge, Dodgeball, Equestrian, 4 v 4 Flag Football, Golf, Ice Hockey, Judo, Jump Rope, Karate, Pickleball, Racquetball, Rock Climbing, Shape Up AZ “Live Event”, Shooting, Skateboarding, Skiing / Snowboarding, Soccer, Squash, Table Tennis, Taekwondo, Tennis, Track & Field, Indoor / Outdoor Volleyball, Weightlifting, and Wrestling. Get Up! Get Active! Get Involved! “This is a family affair,” said Erik Widmark, Executive Director of the Games. “This is a great way for the whole family to compete in an Olympic style atmosphere.” Entry books are available at all Sleep America stores, Keller Williams locations, or Mountainside Fitness locations statewide. You may also register online at gcsg.org. More Information on the Grand Canyon State Games is available by calling 480-517-9700.
Tuesdays & Thursdays 7:00 p.m. Longview Elementary School www.phoenixstorm.org info@rugbystorm.com
Softball
Cactus Cities Softball League
Sundays starting at 8:00 a.m. Spring: Feb. – May; Fall: Oct. - Dec Ceasar Chavez Park www.cactuscities.com
Swimming
The Phoenix Sunfish
Year around schedule Mon, Tues, & Thurs - 6:30 - 8:00 pm Saturdays - 4:30-6:00 pm Three Locations throughout the valley www.phxsunfish.org
Volleyball – Indoor
Desert Volleyball Alliance February - May Saturdays 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. Kingdom Courts www.desertvalleyalliance.org aaryck@hotmail.com
Volleyball – Sand
Arizona Gay Volleyball Association
Three seasons to choose from Feb – May, June – Aug, Sept – Dec Indian Steele Park & Radisson City Center Mondays & Tuesdays 6:30 p.m. www.azgv.org commissioner@azgv.org
ntouchaz.com | February 2011 | Issue #79 | 27
Out of the chute The RoadRunner Regional Rodeo B y
The Arizona Gay Rodeo Association will host the 2011 RoadRunner Regional Rodeo, February 18- 20. From its humble beginnings in 1986, RoadRunner has grown into a first-class competitive rodeo attracting gay and lesbian contestants from around the country. “In our (gay) rodeo, we have many of the same events that are in a mainstream rodeo. However, we also modify a few of the events and we add other events, such as the camp events which include Steer Decorating, Wild Drag Race, and Goat Dressing,” says Ron Trusley, AGRA Trustee. “We have no real way of knowing if some of our competitors compete in ‘mainstream rodeos’, but I do know in the past some of them have, and I would expect they still do.” Trusley has long been a fixture with AGRA, beginning in 1985 when he auditioned to be a member of Sundance Squares, a square dance group which was then part of the non-profit. “I had never been to a rodeo and knew very little about rodeo,” he says. Since then, Trusley has served at the local level
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as the Sergeant at Arms/Parliamentarian, AGRA President, AGRA Vice President, and AGRA Secretary. He has served the International Gay Rodeo Association (IGRA) as the Parliamentarian and Bylaws Committee Chair and as Secretary for 14 plus years. In between he has volunteered as Rodeo Director, Secretary, Assistant Secretary, Assistant Scorekeeper and Timer. Currently, he chairs two different committees at the International level, and is on his second 3-year term as the AGRA Trustee to IGRA. Not bad for a man who had never been to a rodeo. But, Trusley isn’t a greenhorn, he has found himself inside the arena. “Probably a lot of people, including AGRA members, do not know that I did actually compete a few times. I only competed in Roping on Foot, Steer Decorating and Goat Dressing. This was so many years ago that I am not even sure of the year. I enjoy all of the events, but I just do not think I am cut out to be a true competitor. I would rather serve in various staff or volunteer positions at the rodeo,” he says. So what should you expect from a “gay” rodeo?
Bull Riding, Chute Dogging, and Barrel Racing of course, but it would not be a gay rodeo without a few “campy” events such as the Wild Drag Race. The Wild Drag Race is a three-member team event with one member being a man; one being a woman and the last team member being a person dressed in female attire or “drag”. The cowgirl has the rope attached to the steer and is 10 feet from the chute. The cowboy and the drag are 40 feet from the chute. When the whistle blows, the gate opens and the object is to get the steer across a line 70 feet from the chutes. The steer has to then be maneuvered back across the 70-foot line with the drag straddled on the steer. All four feet of the steer must cross the finish line before time ends. Are the animals mistreated? The International Gay Rodeo Association, which RoadRunner is a member, has over 75 rules and references in the rodeo rule book pertaining to the treatment and welfare of the animals used on the IGRA circuit. All IGRA member associations are required to adhere to these rules. IGRA reviews and updates these rules and regulations at their annual conven-
ing in the community for those affected by HIV/ AIDS. Phoenix’s Community Church of Hope is a spiritual resource for the LGBT community, located on 7th Avenue and Indian School Road. The church hosts support and advocacy groups such as AA, Affirmation, COLLAGE, H.O.P.E. and the City of Phoenix Police Department’s GLBT Citizen’s Advisory. The Joshua Tree Feeding Program, located in Phoenix, is dedicated to offering its clients a hot nourishing lunch, plentiful food to take home, and an opportunity to socialize in a compassionate and loving atmosphere every Tuesday at noon. The program serves 120 hot lunches and sends 100 clients home with supplemental groceries. They also serve 130 clients on the 2nd and 4th Fridays of the month with Ryan White-funded food boxes, all at no cost to those clients. In the summer of 2007, a little girl named Déjà died of brain cancer. She was only 4 years old. For this little girl and her family, Jody McNelis coordinated a scrap-a-thon to build a scrapbook for Déjà’s Wish trip to Disneyworld. Inspired by this brave little girl, McNelis sought to find a way to do this for more children like Déjà. She teamed up with her aunt, Roberta Baker to start the nonprofit company, Crops of Luv™ in May of 2009, to con-
tions. In addition, there is a rodeo review meeting after every IGRA sectioned rodeo. These meetings are monitored closely by the Animal Concerns committee to assure the rules and regulations are enforced. The RoadRunner Regional Rodeo is not just a weekend filled with great competition. As part of the IGRA, the rodeo helps raise thousands of dollars for local charities. This year the rodeo will benefit the following organizations: Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays - Phoenix Chapter. PFLAG promotes the health and well-being of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered persons, their families and friends through: Support - to cope with an adverse society, Education - to enlighten an ill-informed public, and Advocacy - to end discrimination and to secure equal civil rights. The Tucson Interfaith HIV/AIDS Network (TIHAN) invites the religious community to join them in an informed, sensitive and compassionate response to those affected by HIV/AIDS. They are called to care by: Working within their faith communities to promote education and prevention of HIV/AIDS. Educating clergy and laity in offering support to those affected by HIV/AIDS. Assuring the availability of spiritual care, respecting each individual’s faith and tradition. Advocat-
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tinue making scrapbooks for critically ill children and their families. Since then Crops of Luv™ has completed over 90 albums through the tireless dedication of volunteers and donations from the community. “I definitely enjoy being part of an all-volunteer group that works throughout the year to produce a successful annual rodeo. It is an awesome feeling to be part of a group that raises money to give to other worthy non-profit organizations. I find it especially rewarding when I know that I or AGRA is able to help any individual learn acceptance, to encourage involvement and participation in a group that helps many others, and to know there is a place for everyone and that each one is valuable,” says Trusley. So come on out, enjoy the competition, fun, food while supporting local non-profits. Contestant registration and pre-rodeo entertainment begin Friday afternoon. Rodeo events, food and beverage, and vendor sales begin at 8a.m. both Saturday and Sunday. Ticket prices are $15 per day, Saturday and Sunday or you can purchase a two-day pass for only $25. Tickets can be purchased at the rodeo grounds or by going to agra-phx.com. Rawhide at Wildhorse Pass is located at the Gila River Indian Community, 5700 W North Loop Road in Chandler.
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FINANCE
Finding the payoff in energy-efficient cars? By Jarrod L. Dill
B
ased on the number of fresh models being introduced this year, the demand for energy-efficient cars appears to be reaching new heights. Hybrids—which are powered alternately by gasoline and battery— have steadily gained traction over the years. And, more recently, cars which are strictly or primarily electric—running on batteries and recharged rather than refueled—are coming to the market. Given their influx popularity, perhaps you’re wondering if now is the right time for you to invest in a more energy-efficient car. The answer may depend on two factors: • Your driving habits and the current and anticipated price of gasoline; and • Your desire to be an “early adopter” and make a personal environmental statement by owning a hybrid or electric vehicle. The financial equation As is often the case with innovative technology, electric cars tend to come with a steeper price tag than their gas-powered counterparts. With pro-
duction occurring on a more limited scale, prices will likely stay higher for electric cars in the near term, just as has been the case for many hybrids. Part of the higher upfront cost may be offset by federal tax credits of as much as $7,500. Beyond that, the financial calculation is based on whether the amount of driving done (and the resulting savings on gas) will overcome the extra upfront cost. Another factor when considering an electric or hybrid alternative is how it fits your driving habits. For instance, some of the new electric-only vehicles will be most cost-effective for those who use it for limited driving, such as round-trip com-
mutes of 10 miles or less. Another new offering can handle up to 40 miles on a full battery charge before the gas-powered engine takes over. At this time, the ability to charge an electric car away from home is limited. Some states and cities are beginning to set up public charging stations, but until those are in place, it may be impractical to drive these cars far from home. Gas prices are another hard-to-quantify factor that may affect the cost-effectiveness of electric and hybrid vehicles. In the short-term, energy prices are unpredictable; however, the general sense is that over time, gasoline is likely to become more expensive. Should this hold true, it could bode well for energy-efficient cars. Joining the cutting edge Like other new technologies, the appeal of electric cars is, in part, the ability to have the latest and greatest thing. Even if it may not make as much sense from an economic perspective, for some, having the chance to be on the forefront of what might be the next revolution in cars is a selling point. Over time, if gas prices trend higher and electric vehicles prove to be an effective alternative, more cars will be produced and brought to the market, resulting in more competition and probably, the ability to purchase a fuel-efficient vehicle at a more favorable upfront cost. Jarrod L. Dill, Financial Advisor, Amerprise Financial Services, Inc., 4835 E Cactus Rd., Suite 230 Scottsdale, AZ 85254, (602) 996-7355 x11. Toll Free: (877) 829-8214 x11. http://www.ameripriseadvisors.com/ jarrod.l.dill. Advisor is licensed/registered to do business with U.S. residents only in the states of AZ, AK, CA, MA, MO, TX, WA & IL. Brokerage, investment and financial advisory services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. Some products and services may not be available in all jurisdictions or to all clients. © 2010 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. File #111195, (01/2011)
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32 | Issue #79 | February 2011 | ntouchaz.com
news / politics / business / opinion
Guys & Dolls Show @ Colors Restaurant, Tucson
Talent Show @ Coyote Moon Pub, Tucson
Meow Mix Haute Holiday Party @ Sapphire Lounge, Tucson
HEALTH
Ring in the new year, think about new therapy By Dr. Damien Brandeis
Hello Doc, I have been on a low dose (30 mg) of Cymbalta for the past couple of years. There are days when I literally feel like a cloud is coming over me I am so blue. I tried going up in dose, but that made me very tired and when I sleep a lot I get more depressed. Is there an alternative? I know it is chemical because I don’t really have anything that is bothering me. Margaret Cymbalta is a prescription medication used to treat major depression as well as generalized anxiety disorder. This medication has also been approved to treat fibromyalgia, diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain, chronic musculoskeletal pain, osteoarthritis, and chronic low back pain. I assume you’re taking this medication for depression. The condition you describe as feeling blue suggests a mood disorder. Antidepressants have a sedating effect on most individuals. They can make mood disorders worse. It sounds like your therapy is not working — at least not to your satisfaction. Your tolerance of an ineffective therapy is amazing, because there are several alternatives available to you. Of course, the important part of any treatment is a thorough diagnosis, and it’s difficult to make specific recommendations without sitting down with you and conducting an in-depth interview. I can recommend that you get worked news / politics / business / opinion
up — that’s the single best first step to solving this problem. Since you believe your issue is chemical (which I take to mean neurotransmitters), you could undergo testing to confirm this or rule it out completely. There are several laboratories that specialize in testing for transmitter levels in the brain. The testing is affordable and non-invasive. From this information, the patient is given a regimen that supplements deficiencies and augments the balance in the brain. This is a radically different approach to countering your body’s response to neurotransmitter production (which is essentially the approach with your medication). If your issues are a combination of symptoms which may include fibromyalgia, there are additional approaches to those issues as well. A combination of therapies might solve your problems. Great question, thank you for asking! Before we move on to the next question, I have a suggestion for the New Year: there are always alternatives to every therapy. If you’re not getting an expected — or satisfactory — outcome, get another opinion. This actually means finding a therapy that works. This statement is true for conventional medicine as well as alternative practices.
Hello! Is there a non-nicotine way to get off of cigarettes? Larry There are several smoking cessation methods available. Many are supported by medical insurance plans. I have successfully used several methods with patients but each person is different, so there is not a solitary therapy I can recom-
mend. The place to start is asking yourself why you started, why you continue, and how committed you are to stop. When you have these answers, you can select a method that will work for you with some advice from your physician. Conventional medicine is offering new prescription called Chantix. This drug therapy reduces the effectiveness of nicotine receptors through a combination of decreasing the dose of nicotine (decreased smoking to cessation) and blocking the receptor response. This has worked for some of my patients. There is the older therapy using a drug called Zyban also known as Wellbutrin. I have used herbal medicines, acupuncture, hypnosis, and prescription drugs either singularly or in combination. My patients have been successful when they are committed to stopping and follow the regimen. Every single method I mention here does not use nicotine substitute for cigarettes. Here is some good news which is universally true: nicotine receptors demand feeding based on their number. As you reduce your intake, your receptors go away as well. As with any drug withdrawal, it is easiest to reduce dependence by gradually decreasing the intake of the substance. Put yourself on a reduction plan over time, and eventually you will not need to smoke because you will decrease your nicotine cravings. The other issues surrounding smoking will still need to be addressed, such as why you started and why you like to smoke, etc. For this reason, the ‘cold turkey’ method does not always work. I suggest that you get professional assistance. People do stop and you can too! Keep your questions coming to us! You are smart when you make your medicine work for you and not the other way around! Dr. Damien Brandeis, NMD has a private practice located one mile west of Loop 101 and West Chandler Blvd. For more information about his practice, visit drbrandeis.net or call 480-855-6560. ntouchaz.com | February 2011 | Issue #79 | 35
ETHICS
The ethics of email and texting
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By Dr. Dina Evan
hould significant others and family members have access to your text messages and emails? If that question sent a shiver to your hinny, I suggest you take a look at why, and what your agreements are about this issue in your relationship. In Detroit, Michigan, a husband is going to court in February, being sued for hacking into his then wife’s email. The husband used the email in court to prove his wife’s infidelity and then she began to get curious about how the emails in question got to him and oops, a lawsuit ensued over her privacy. However, there is a deeper, and perhaps, more muddy issue here and me thinks she doth protest too much, given that he found she was having an affair. We live in an age of second hand communication; phone, voicemail, email, SMS, IM, micro-blogging and status updates on sites like Facebook in which our lives become a universal in box and the difference between what is personal and what is professional is harder to determine. Is this keeping us emotionally stunted? Are we becoming connection and communication phobic’s who are so crippled that we can only express our truths second hand by typing? Some part of me believes this is a real problem given how many times I hear a whinny voice say, “Can’t I just send him an email?” On the other hand, is this the new streamlined way of communicating in an age of universal connectivity? The answer is probably somewhere in the middle. So, what are the limits and boundaries about personal communications in relationship? Let’s look
at the ethics from both sides. If you are communicating information to someone other than your partner that directly affects your partner or your relationship, that is unethical. You are taking the coward’s way out to vent your feelings and frustration instead of dealing directly with your issues with the person involved. If you say your partner blows everything out of proportion, which is what I hear often, and that is why you keep things from him or her, perhaps it’s time to ask yourself how much safer your partner might feel if you were transparent. If your partner actually does blow things out of proportion, maybe it’s time for a suggestion that your partner get some help with his or her insecurities? When people start having hunches and want to peek at emails, I tend to error on the side of trusting hunches. Experience has shown in twenty-plus years of counseling, whenever a partner was being secretive and the other partner had a hunch, there proved to be a reason for hat hunch. Intuition is a powerful antenna. People who have nothing to hide, usually hide nothing. There is however a right and wrong way to get to the truth, which usually does not include violating privacy. I think couples who share beds, bodies and spiritual paths should certainly be open in all other aspects of their lives. At the same time, it’s true that we all have thoughts and feelings that are not necessarily helpful to share and which we have the right to keep private. If you establish a value for transparency and at the same time a respect for each
other’s privacy, then you have the best of both worlds. If either partner becomes concerned, it is always best to go directly to your partner and ask before snooping in any personal information. If you still feel concerned and as if you are not getting the truth, then go back a second time to ask for it while explaining that something still does not feel resolved to you and ask your partner to check to see if he or she may have left out any information they still want to share. If you honestly feel you are being lied to, then ask your partner to reveal their emails and texts to you and if they refuse you have your answer. If someone opts to conceal information rather than reveal it to create trust in a relationship, they probably aren’t trustworthy. If we have no one other than our partner to talk with we can begin to feel isolated and enmeshed, so I encourage partners to have best friends and people they can confide in outside the relationship. Mates can agree about who they feel is trustworthy, or not, in these situations however these agreements have the understanding that we always talk to each other first. We are becoming a world disconnected and separated and we rely now so much on electronic commu-
nication that we miss the wince, the grimace, the smile, the cringe, the sigh, the recoil in pain, the bonding and the sweetness as we look into each other’s eyes. These are the energetic connections that keep us real so whenever possible, talk in person. Take the time as an insurance policy on your relationship and to make sure the real work of relationship, character growth and personal and spiritual transformation are not being neglected. Somehow smiley faces don’t get it for me so let me just start this new year by saying straight out, how grateful I am to be given a forum and precious readers who allow me to share about the more meaningful things of my life. So, until we meet face to face, type away and send an email or text message telling us about your concerns, and your joy in 2011. Send questions to DrDBE@attglobal.net or to editor@ntouchaz.com. Dr. Dina Evan is a licensed Marriage, Family, and Child Therapist in the State of California. She has offices in Phoenix, AZ and Los Angeles, CA. Dr. Evan has won national acclaim as a human rights advocate. She is a columnist for several newspapers and has written five best selling books. For more information you may go to DrDinaEvan.com.
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team building and communication programs. • Experience in conducting outreach to youth in both rural and urban areas. • Demonstrated event planning experience. • Ability to speak clearly and passionately to groups of 150+ people. • Positive associations with LGBTQ youth groups and organizations in Arizona preferred.
• Ability to assist in facilitating camp activates such as: high/low ropes, kayaking, team building, self expression exercises, etc. • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite products.
< continued from page 25 ership camp. • Connect with community centers, school GSA and other youth serving organizations to promote 1n10 programs, including annual camp.
Position Requirements • Bachelor’s degree in social service-
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Benefits Overview • Funded for six (6) month at a salary of $15,000 (Non-negotiable). Continued on page 53 >
ntouchaz.com | February 2011 | Issue #79 | 37
Q Speak Theatre Benefit @ Rainbow Cactus, Phoenix
YOUR PETS
Pets in search
Your Pet Questions Answered By Dr. Alicia Ruiz
of a Loving Home Located in Phoenix, Arizona Rescue is the last voice for dogs and wcats who, through no fault of their own, find themselves awaiting death at our county pounds.
Anakin Anakin is one of the most handsome dogs we have rescued in a long time! He has a wonderful colored coat and stunning ice blue eyes. He is a young boy with bundles of energy and curiosity! He wants to investigate everything and everyone on his walks. He’s a happy go lucky boy who loves playing and affection! Anakin is looking for a home with an active lifestyle - walks, jogs, hikes, agility camping are all activities that Anakin would love to be apart of.
I’m a vegetarian and I’ve noticed vegetarian dog foods at the store. Is this a healthy diet for my dog?
My partner feeds scraps to the dogs when she is cooking. Is there anything she should avoid feeding them?
Dogs are considered obligatory carnivores because of the 22 essential amino acids necessary to make body proteins, they can only make 12 of these themselves and depend on the intake of good protein sources to get the rest. One of the best sources for amino acids in the amount and proportion needed for our canines is meat and that is why almost all commercial diets contain some meat source as the protein carrier in their diets. There are other sources of protein that can be used adequately but meat and eggs are still the most efficient for dogs. Commercial vegetarian diets should be properly balanced and if the company is reputable may be adequate for the average dog. I would recommend doing good research into the diet you want to use before switching to a vegetarian diet for your dog because Mother Nature intended for dogs to eat meat.
When feeding table scraps, they should not comprise more than 10% of your pet’s entire diet. A good commercial pet food is made to be balanced and provide the nutrition needed to keep your pet healthy. When feeding table scraps avoid anything high in fat such as gristle from meat or bacon grease as excess fat can cause increase in weight and pancreatitis, which can be life threatening. Onions, grapes, apple cores, chocolate (especially dark or baking varieties), garlic powder (for cats), chicken bones, fruit high in Vitamin C may cause diarrhea and dairy products in dogs found to be lactose intolerant. If you feed your dog bones make sure they are fully cooked and that your dog is not one that tries to swallow it whole which can lead to choking, constipation or intestinal obstruction.
Dr. Ruiz is a Doctor of Veterinarian Medicine at Central Phoenix Animal Hospital, 602- 277-5155. Questions for Dr. Ruiz can be emailed to editor@ntouchaz.com
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Rocky Well, it didn’t take long for Rocky to make every volunteer within meowing distance fall in love with him. We’ve lost count of the number of volunteers who have had their hearts stolen and have melted in Rocky’s presence. With his round, furry face, bright, shiny eyes, cute, little ears, and high-pitched meow, our volunteers didn’t stand a chance and you know what? Neither will you!
To learn more or about Anakin or Rocky, go to azrescue.org. ntouchaz.com | February 2011 | Issue #79 | 39
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Desperado Film Festival delivers By Staff The Desperado Gay and Lesbian Film Festival will be held Jan. 28-30 at Paradise Valley Community College Center for the Performing Arts. Now in its 2nd year, the festival promises to be bigger and better than ever. Feature Length Films
A Marine Story A decorated Marine officer unexpectedly returns home from the war and is quickly recruited to help a troubled teen prepare for boot camp, but when the true reasons for her return become known it threatens the future for both of them. A MArine Story highlights the absurdity of the military ban on gays through the personal story of one courageous woman.
Baby Jane? Two twisted sisters live in their own self made hell. Baby Jane? takes it’s cue from the original cult classic starring Bette Davis and Joan Crawford - but continually takes the audience down unexpected twists and turns. Elena Undone Before crossing paths with Peyton, falling for a woman was an unimaginable situation for Elena, a straight wife and mother. The friendship between Peyton, an out lesbian writer, and Elena, the wife of an anti-gay paster who has never experienced true love, transforms swiftly from a one-sided crush into a torrid extramarital affair. Despite their attraction, Peyton, jaded in a number of ways, has strong reservations about becoming involved with a married straight woman; Elena, recognizing that she is caught in a loveless marriage, can barely begin to rationalize the nature and magnitude of her desires. As their relationship evolves, Elena confronts the choice of leaving her husband or ending her involvement with Peyton to save her unraveling and unrewarding marriage and return to a drab and automated life. Above all, Elena faces the loom-
ing challenge of convincing Peyton that the two women have a bright future together despite their unfavorable circumstances. Forever’s Gonna Start Tonight The film tells the astounding life story of San Francisco living legend Vicki Marlane, still strutting it onstage at 74. Vicki takes us on the ride of her life — from cross-dressed rollerskating in her youth to working the carnival sideshows circuit in the 1950s, from the wild years of San Francisco in the 1970s, to survival in the 1980s and her legendary performances at Aunt Charlies, where she continues to perform today. Gen Silent Gen Silent is the new LGBT documentary from award-winning director and documentary filmmaker Stu Maddux (Bob and Jack’s 52-Year Adventure, Trip to Hell and Back) that asks six LGBT seniors if they will hide their lives to survive. (see interview sith filmmaker Stu Maddux online at ntouchaz.com
Three theaters under one roof By Staff In a small space off of 11th Ave and Grand Ave. resides a very busy theater that boasts not one, but three performance groups. Soul Invictus Gallery plays host to the Sic Sense Comedy Troupe, Arizona Curriculum Theater, and Soul Invictus Productions. The Sic Sense Comedy Troupe is a sketch comedy group that performs three times a year at Soul Invictus to packed houses. The Sic Sense Comedy Troupe has performed at Ice Pics and other spots around town, and has recently become a regular act at The Rock. The Arizona Curriculum Theater produces both plays and musicals at Soul Invictus, but also performs at schools around the valley. This theater troupe also produces workshops and lectures for kids in 4th grade to seniors in high school. Soul Invictus Productions also produces both plays and musicals. Their latest show, “Head, the Musical”, plays through Jan. 29, 2011. The show is based on the classic cult film “The Brain That Wouldn’t Die”. The musical features everything you would expect from a classic B-movie; blood, mad scientists, sex, a creature in the closet, and a talking/singing head. “Head, the Musical” stars Matthew Harris, Sandy Leon, Eric Boudreau, Stacie Stocker, Mi40 | Issue #79 | February 2011 | ntouchaz.com
chal Paris Davis and Charis Harty. Franc Gaxiola is the Director, Bill Dyer is the Music Director, and Rachel Cohen is the Assistant Director/Choreographer. Cohen is excited to be involved in the show for a number of reasons, but one reason is she gets to work with Matthew again. “It has been a great experience to work with someone again after 8 years. You see how they have grown as an actor and it helps you see where you are at as an artist.” Although there is another production of the musical currently running in Los Angeles, this one will be different from any staged thus far. “I was able to get permission from the author to change a couple of things in the show so we would be able to use the space properly,” said Gaxiola. Dyer has worked with the Sic Sense Comedy Troupe since 2009 being a writer, director, performer and the musical director. So when “Head, the Musical” came available he jumped at the chance to work with the show. “Some of the songs have very intricate harmonies and the cast was able to handle the songs quickly. We have a great team.” “Head, the musical” runs every Friday and Saturday night through Jan. 29 at 8 p.m. Soul Invictus Gallery is located at 1022 NW Grand Ave. Tickets are $20 and available at the door or on showup.com.
Out in the Silence The announcement of filmmaker Joe Wilson’s wedding to another man ignites a firestorm of controversy and a quest for change in the small Pennsylvania hometown he left long ago. Drawn back by a plea for help from the mother of a gay teen being tormented at school, Wilson takes viewers on an exhilarating journey through love, hate, and understanding in rural America. The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls The Topp Twins: Untouchable Girls is a big story. It’s not just the story of two sisters but also of 50 years of New Zealand history. Half a century of cultural changes and the foundation of a national identity. Part concept film, part biopic, part historical record, part comedy, the Twins share their journey from “coming out‟ to Jools’ recent brush with Breast Cancer with much laughter, honesty and wisdom. It is a film about two truly unique New Zealanders which ends up saying as much about us as it does about them. Undertow Continued on page 53 >
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MISS & MISTER PHOENIX
TRAVEL
Italy - La dolce vita, Ah the sweet life! Part one: Venice Part One of a three-part series By John Thomas Lotardo Like many, my husband and I have always dreamed of traveling to Europe. But where should our virgin trip be to? Well Italy, of course! Or at least that was our first choice with many other runners-up like Paris, Amsterdam, and London. We planned for months and took the plunge. When to go? Typically Italy is nicest in Spring and Fall with the major cities being hot in Summer (with many shutting down in August) and down right cold (and rainy) for us Phoenicians in winter. So we set the dates for late fall ensuring the latesummer tourist rush was over. With our credit card travel-miles in hand, we made the plane reservations a full six months in advance. With connecting flights through Washington D.C. we upgraded to first class (remember those travel miles can be a lifesaver!) and picked Rome as our arrival and departure city since our tour plans were as yet still unplanned. Upon arrival, we arrive in the morning to the sights of another world of (authentic) century old tile roofs, church towers and majestic elegance which can’t be described by mere pictures. From there the real adventure began. We then hop on the transportation from the Airport to Termini Train Station to catch our train to Venice, our first of three cities. Since we were tired already, what’s a few more hours traveling we thought? Actually it was not bad at all. For a few extra dollars (or should I say Euros since Italy is now on the European Euro, which exchange rate was close to $1.40 per Euro -ouch- at the time) you can get your tickets and reserve your seats using the automated teller machine or by standing in a ticket line. We got our tickets non-stop to speed the trip along and made sure that we had them for Venezia St. Lucia which lands us right in Venice versus on the mainland outside of Venice. The train ride really gives you an opportunity to adjust to the idea that you are now in Europe. It is quite exciting to come upon Venice as the train pulls in and realize that you are now in the city of romance - Venice - forever sinking, forever endeared by millions. Once there you can catch various modes of travel but all boats. The water taxi being the more expensive but fabulous to feel like you’re Angolina Jolie from the recent movie “The Tourist” in her shiny woody boat and Italian driver. For a much more reasonable price, but certainly more crowded, you can take the water bus which stops at key points along the Grand Canal. We decided to splurge and go Angolina style since our hotel was at the far end of the Canal. The Centurion Palace (centurionpalacevenezia. 42 | Issue #79 | February 2011 | ntouchaz.com
com), our hotel, or should I say Palazzo as its name denotes (most of the places you can stay in Venice are or were at one times someone’s Palazzo/home or another historic building) was right on the Grand Canal with views out to the sea and down from the famous Rialto Bridge. Next to the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, and between the Punta della Dogana and the Peggy Guggenheim Museum, looking directly onto the Grand Canal, St. Mark’s Square and the Giudecca, the Centurion is both modern and historic. The name Centurion refers to the ancient Roman coin depicting Antinous, who was famous for his friendship with the Emperor Hadrian, which was discovered when the building was being restored. The Centurion Palace, which is on the area of the Monastery of San Gregorio, has kept its splendid Venetian-Gothic facade, but just step inside and you find yourself in a magical ambience which blends luxury with the latest fashion trends. Overlooking St. Mark’s Basin at the mouth of the Grand Canal, Centurion Palace is housed in the former convent of Palazzo Genovese. Rooms and suites have a contrasting modern influence and there is a private garden, butler service and a gourmet restaurant. Expect peace and tranquility in this relatively quiet area of Dorsoduro, virtually next door to the famous landmark, Santa Maria della Salute. Each room and suite is individually decorated in contemporary style, many of which have dreamy, mystical city views. This provides a great base for exploring the city by walking to the lively Campo Santa Margherita with its numerous cafes and afterwards visiting the Guggenheim. Return for early evening cocktails in the garden or at the corner bar by the canal before dining in the hotel restaurant on haute Mediterranean and creative cuisine. The staff at the Centurion was truly amazing. They were helpful, courteous and friendly. Over the few days we were there, we became quite attached to them all. Whether it was Mauro or Emanuele at the front desk helping us plan our day’s events, a gondola ride or tracking down a
Venetian neighborhood dinner experience, or Marietta or Rochelle in the dining area making us our “American Salsa” or bringing us homemade cookies from home each morning to have with our Cappuccino, they all really made each moment special. In fact, the general manager, Paolo Morra, met with me to talk about the hotel, its recent renovations and explain how they continually strive to out-do themselves. While apologizing for some minor items not in perfect condition, he was quite proud of what they have done. And he really should be. By leaving the structure in place but reinventing the interiors into truly works of art right down to the gold showers and expansive modern aesthetic, the Centurion really does embrace the idea of infusing true design efforts in a hotel stay. One special note was the cleaning staff. They were there but virtually unseen- no clunky noisy carts here. Though the rooms were routinely made and freshened at least twice a day, they seemed invisible. The Centurion is part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World but also part of a group of Sina Hotel Chain in Italy (sinahotels.com ). If you want to try one a bit more in the busier part of Venice, you could try their sister hotel. Palazzo Sant’Angelo (palazzosantangelo.com). Though there were no gay bars, Venice seemed the most gay-friendly and gay populated from a tourist perspective. One of the shops, Fiorella Gallery (fiorellagallery.com) is a unique combination of art gallery and fashion store. You cannot miss it with its buff male nude mannequin in the storefront surrounded by others in outlandish jackets wearing high heels and stockings. Fiorella Mancini first opened an earlier store in Venice in 1968. In recent times, she has kept up her taste for the provocative which includes these over-the-top handdecorated jackets, which you can try on (me and my hubby tried on a few handling them quite gingerly given their four figure price tag). Fiorella has further demonstrated her support for the gay community, appearing in the Gay Pride festival held in Rome a few years back. One of her prior displays was entitled “bed and breakfast” where two men in underwear shared a bed in the shop window for five days. How’s that for an alternative reality show? As far as the rest of Venice, the city seems nonchalant about stereotypes, gay or straight. No one seems to care, focusing more on the grander sights the city has to offer. With travel books galore out there, you can get an idea of what to expect. But being there is something else. Overall, a wonderfully glorious city to see. news / politics / business / opinion
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ntouchaz.com | February 2011 | Issue #79 | 45
Wingspan Night Thing New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve Party @ JW Marriot Resort & Spa, Tucson
FOCUS TUCSON
Looking forward: What’s ahead for Wingspan By Linda Thomas, Wingspan Program Director What a year! Thanks to our tremendous community, Wingspan began the year on solid footing and never looked back. The beginning of the year saw us still settling into our new digs, and in April we got together to recognize all our fabulous volunteers. Then we celebrated by dancing a jig or two at the Eon and Senior Proms before heading into the heat of the summer. Before we knew it, Latin Gay Pride was upon us, along with the rest of the Pride celebrations in October. The Wingspan Classic, in its second year, was a smashing success and looks to be a regular part of our annual program going forward. Transgender Remembrance Week followed soon thereafter and gave us the opportunity to remember those who are no longer with us. Now we are in final preparations for our fabulous inaugural New Year’s Eve event, NIGHT THING, at the Starr Pass Resort, and from all indications it will be the place to be on the last night of 2010. With the president’s gift of the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, we have much to celebrate! Yes, 2010 was a great year, but 2011 holds
48 | Issue #79 | February 2011 | ntouchaz.com
promises of much more! As we enter the New Year, we are looking forward. Forward to seeing implementation of open service for gay and lesbian service members. Forward to advocating for and gaining passage of a trans-inclusive Employment Non-Discrimination Act. Forward to continuing to advocate for our at-risk and homeless youth, survivors of violence and the transgender community. Forward to building upon this incredible partnership of community partners and supporters, volunteers, staff and Board members we call Wingspan.
We began 2010 with the tag line “Together We Are Wingspan.” Later this year we added “Together We Are Strong.” We made this change to recognize the power we have as a community . . . as a family. In 2011, we will build on that strength by continuing to improve our processes, expanding our outreach, increasing our collaborations and solidifying our presence. We don’t want to spoil any surprises, but suffice it to say that 2011 will bring significant improvements to our space, a new look to our online presence and innovative programming on all fronts. One area we’ll be focusing on is our outreach to LGBT elders, and we’ll kick this effort off with our LGBT Elders Open House on Jan. 26. Additionally we are committed to: • Expanding our outreach to the Latino community through our recently reinvigorated Puertas Abiertas program; • Increasing visibility and support of LGBT people, especially young people, living in rural southern Arizona; • Providing more for those in their 20s and 30s. Of course, none of this can happen without significant resources, and we’ll be working on all fronts to ensure they are available. As Wingspan is about 60 percent grant funded, and many of those grants will end in mid-2011, applying for new grants will be a priority. Grants are not, however, what provides a stable funding stream. That comes in the way of regular giving by people like you. People committed to the mission of Wingspan: “promoting the freedom, equality, safety and well-being of LGBT people in Southern Arizona.” So, in answer to the question I heard earlier in the year (but not so much lately), YES, Wingspan is alive and well. Our eight-person staff is seasoned and committed and ready to tackle a new year of challenges and opportunity. We find ourselves at a unique time in the LGBT movement for equality with the repeal of DADT -- federal recognition that it’s okay to be gay. The floodgates have opened (if only a small crack), and there will be no closing them again. As in the past 23 years, Wingspan will continue to be at the forefront of advocating for our community, caring for those in need and being a part of what makes Tucson a great place to live. We look forward to you being part of the team and part of the dream. The dream that one day, we won’t need to hold anti-LGBT bullying rallies. That one day, there won’t be a need for a Tucson Police Department detective assigned to work hate crimes. That one day, transgender people won’t have to worry about receiving good medical care. news / politics / business / opinion
FOCUS TUCSON
Fabulous Faygeleh LGBT Film Series Next up, Tell Them Anything You Want and Gay Days By Staff The Tucson Jewish Community Center’s Fabulous Faygeleh LGBT Film Series continues Sunday, Jan. 30 with two films, Tell Them Anything You Want and Gay Days. Tell Them Anything You Want is an intriguing documentary focusing on Maurice Sendak, the curmudgeonly children’s author who wrote “Where the Wild Things Are”. Filmmakers Spike Jonze (who directed the film version of that book) and Lance Bangs have a compelling subject to work with in Tell Them Anything You Want. Viewers don’t have to be fans of Sendak’s books to enjoy this film. As the title implies, the author (who was 81 years old during the making of the documentary) isn’t shy about saying anything--some of which he admits may be made up. Sendak isn’t overly modest about his brilliant and sometimes controversial work. But he still likes to question why the filmmakers are “doing a documentary of a brain-dead person.” Clearly, Sendak is far from brain-dead. Still whip-sharp and witty, he is equally at home cussing up a storm or relaying fantastic stories that should be made into books. At one time, his work was considered inappropriate for kids. But he has always held the theory that children are a lot smarter than adults give them credit for. You can tell them anything, as long as you’re being honest. In terms of influencing others, Sendak has been a massive influence over the decades. While
his books certainly have roused much controversy, they have also charmed scores of parents and children alike with their unique illustrations and lovable characters. Perhaps one of his biggest fans would be Gregory Maguire, author of the hit novel, Wicked. Maguire enjoys Sendak’s works so much that he was prompted to write a tributary book dedicated to Sendak’s life and accomplishments, titled Making Mischief: A Maurice Sendak Appreciation. Sendak lived with his partner, psychoanalyst Eugene Glynn for 50 years before Dr. Glynn’s death in May 2007. Revealing that he never told his parents, he said, “All I wanted was to be straight so my parents could be happy. They never, never, never knew.” The documentary includes some shout-outs from A-listers such as Meryl Streep, Catherine Keener, and James Gandolfini. But it’s Sendak
himself who is the shining star. Tell Them Anything You Want plays with Walk on Water. Gay Days chronicles the evolution of the LGBT rights movement in Israel, from 1985 until the current day. It’s a personal story told through the eyes of Yair Qedar, the editor of the LGBT paper, The Pink Times. The film begins in 1985 when there are only a handful of openly gay people within Israeli society. But by 1998 this number has increased to over 3000. Using archive materials from television, film and home videos alongside photographs and extracts from Yair’s own diary, the film tells intimate, moving and humorous stories of the fight for equality through the movement’s key players, shedding light on their personal struggles as well those of the movement in general. Contributors include partners Gal Uchovsky and Eytan Fox, Ellyot, Amalia Ziv, and Amit Kama. Today, members of the gay community are represented in prominent positions throughout Israeli society with many individuals standing in the front line of Israel’s civil society. Gay Days is in Hebrew with English subtitles. The films play at Crossroads 6 Grand Cinemas East is located at 4811 E. Grant Road in Tucson. Prices per screening: $8 general; and $7 for JCC members. Call 520-615-5432, or visit tucsonjewishfilmfestival.org for more information.
Christmas Eve @ Woody’s, Tucson news / politics / business / opinion
ntouchaz.com | February 2011 | Issue #79 | 49
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t Palo Verde Rd
6th Ave
5.
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y
3.
2449 N Stone Ave, TUC
520-318-4838
Hw
BRODIE’S TAVERN
4.
on
2.
2900 E Broadway, TUC | 520-318-4838
ns
AIN’T NOBODY’S BIZ
St
Ajo Way
Be
12th Ave
Ajo Way
nd
loftcinema.com
22nd Street
irla
36th Street
1.
Country Rd
HOTEL & SUITES
Country Rd
Euclid Ave 29th Street
Kino Parkway
520292-6702
5th Street
Craycroft Rd
6th Street
Rosemont Blvd
8 Speedway Blvd
Pima Street Swan Ave
520-293-7339
Elm Street
Columbus Blvd
Stone Ave
Euclid Ave
Grant Rd
Country Club Rd
520-292-6702
2
Tucson Blvd
Oracle Rd
Glenn Street
520-323-1840
Alvernon Way
Mountain Ave
Miracle Mile
Campbell Ave
Wells Rd
5
After
Prince Rd
7.
LOFT CINEMA, THE
915 W Prince Rd, TUC | 520-293-7339
HOLIDAY INN TUCSON AIRPORT
8.
Venture–N
4950 S Palo Verde, TUC | 520-746-1161
1239 N 6th Ave, TUC
IBT’s
9.
Woody’s
COYOTE MOON
616 N 4th Ave, TUC | 520-882-3053
3233 E Speedway, TUC | 520-795-7777
3710 N Oracle Rd, TUC | 520-292-6702
ntouchaz.com | February 2011 | Issue #79 | 51
CLASSIFIEDS ANNOUNCEMENTS Happy Birthday Bumble
Boo!
Love,
Writing your biography? Let a professional edit and proof your manuscript for a reasonable price. Call for rates. 602-957-1638.
Happy Birthday Papa! Love, Zoey & Buster and the rest of the kids! ‘N Touch News would like to say thank you to all of our advertisers, supporters, and readers. There are many people who say they do it for the community, but all of you really do. Downtown Phoenix Public Market is now open on Wednesdays from 4-8pm. Not just on Saturdays anymore! Support local farmers and artists while also supporting the local economy... and by the way, a little organic food won’t hurt you!
Blake Housecleaning. Taking care of all your housecleaning needs. Serving all parts of the Valley. Ron Blake 480-241-5651 rblake5551@hotmail.com
Having a bad hair day? John Krebs of Panache Salon can help you with all of your hair needs. 5533 N. 7th St, Suite 401, Phoenix. Call (602)678-5517.
Personal Fitness Training. Blake Fitness is the name to know for all your fitness training needs. 15 years of experience and still having fun! Ron Blake 480-2415651 myblakefitness.com
Professional tax preparation for individuals and small businesses. Call Rainbow Tax Service today for your appointment. (602) 265-1631.
Roommate wanted to share nice house in quiet neighborhood near 36th St. and Indian School. Available Feb. 1st. 2 bed/2bath, covered parking, washer dryer, wireless internet, cable tv, private backyard, no smoking in house, dog allowed (no cats). $600 plus 1/2 utilities. Call John at 602-5023313.
PERSONALIZED PET SITTING! Pets First is now expanding service to downtown, north central Phoenix and Paradise Valley! Professional in-your-home care. Bonded, Insured. Call George, Judy and Mary. 602 548 9628
BUSINESS / SERVICE
Mobile bookkeeper for small business. I’ll crunch your numbers so that you can focus on what you do best. Contact Dave Connell at 602-400-5383.
FOR RENT/LEASE
Remodeled Rental 7th St/ Maryland Small triplex, private end unit $695.00 per month, water included. 1 bed/1 bath, 850 sqft, travertine throughout, french doors, upgraded kitchen, lots of storage, walk in closet, mature landscaping. Move in Ready! Contact Martha Zabala 602-2144083. Arizona Lifestyle Realty.
COMMUNITY INFO Free Social Group and Nonprofit listings. List your social group or non-profit organization for free at ntouchaz.com! Click on the community directory page and add your listing today!
COUNSELING
Now, Voyager Hypnotherapy/ Coaching- Let me help you improve many areas of your life. Visit NowVoyagerHypnosis.com for some ideas or call 602-3016551. The Mind Is The Greatest Vessel! Licensed Professional Counselor - Call Rene Broussard, LPC for a Caring Counselor who knows our community, from the inside out: 480-751-1020. Sliding Scale Fee and Free Initial Consultation Available.
52 | Issue #79 | February 2011 | ntouchaz.com
South Phoenix Home for Rent 3 bed/ 2.5 bath, 1400 sqft, two levels, 2 car garage, split floor plan, washer/dryer, landscaping included in rent. $995 per month. Pets ok w/ approval. Section 8 welcome, ready for immediate move in! Contact Martha Zabala 602-214-4083. Arizona Lifestyle Realty.
Coronado Historic Rental 2 bed/2 bath home, over 950 sqft, gated front courtyard, fireplace, hardwood floors, kitchen island, full appliances. Great private backyard, ideal for gardening w/ lots of fruit trees. Hurry this won’t last long! $995.00 per month. Martha Zabala 602-2144083. Arizona Lifestyle Realty.
Room For Rent South Phoenix area, near South Mountain, ASU, Tempe, Downtown. Newer home, two levels, modern decor, over 2800 sqft, gated front courtyard, tile/carpet floors, granite counters, patio. Room is $500 per month, includes utilities & internet. Shared bath, prefer non smoker, no pets. Contact Ron Houston for more info 480-8618744.
FOR SALE
WOW Bank Owned Bargain! 23rd St/ Indian School. Charming single level home, over 1000 sqft, 3 bed/2 bath, living room, open kitchen, dining area, family room, inside laundry, carport parking, RV gate & more. Listed at $46,900. Contact The Ron Houston Group 602-402-2459 www.RonHoustonGroup.com Arizona Lifestyle Realty.
McDowell Mountain Retreat - Bank Owned Guarded Community, amazing mountain views. 4 bedroom/2.5 bath home, 3749 sqft, single level, open floorplan, fireplace, large kitchen, gated front courtyard, pool/spa, built in bbq, firepit, 3 car garage. Offered at $569,900. For more infor contact The Ron Houston Group 602-402-2459. Arizona Lifestyle Realty. FOR SALE: LUXURY PENTHOUSE 207 W. Clarendon #22E Spacious, bright, views. 1566 sq.ft. 2 split Master BRs/2 full baths. Eat-in kitchen. LR/DR. Pool,spa,tennis,light-rail. 24/7 front desk. Move-in ready. Priced to
news / politics / business / opinion
CLASSIFIEDS MASSAGE
sell. $395,000.00. Linda Pool Keller Williams - (480)600-7504 lindapool@cox.net
Not a Bank Owned or Short Sale! North Phoenix, Tatum/ Bell. Single level home, 3 bed/2 bath, 1400+ sqft, vaulted ceilings, skylights, open kitchen w/ breakfast bar, formal dining, 2 car garage & more! Listed at $172,500. Contact Sue Ligeros for more info 602-628-2549. Arizona Lifestyle Realty.
FOR SALE: Uptown Gem of a Home 1024 West Georgia Avenue, Pasadena Neighborhood, Walkability Score 67, Energy efficient 3 bedrms, 1.75 baths. 1900 sq. ft has home office entry. Spacious corner lot, walled privacy, paddle fans, skylights, A/C and evap. Security doors thruout & alarm system. Detached 2+ car port with secure storage, Offered at $235,000. MLS # 4186597, 10 2 4 w g e o r g i a a v e . e p r o p e rtysites.com. Owner/agent John E. Hughes, Jr. (520) 907-6792.
HEALTH Bank Owned 16th St/ Northern Spanish style home, over 2000 sqft, single level, 3 bed/3 baths, 2 car garage, large laundry room, pool, built in bbq area, mountain views. Remodel never completed, needs work. Offered at $144,000. The Ron Houston Group 602-402-2459 or www. RonHoustonGroup.com Arizona Lifestyle Realty.
Vacant Land for Sale! Central Phoenix. 36th St/ Thomas. Ideal for seasoned investors & developers. Less than $1.78 per sqft of land. Potential for mutli family units or single family home. Listed at $19,900. Seller may carryback up to $10k- contact for more info The Ron Houston Group 602-402-2459. Arizona Lifestyle Realty.
Purchase Classified Ads Online! ntouchaz.com
Are you experiencing any of the following? Hot flashes, mood swings, low sex drive, weight gain, depression, headaches, anxiety, foggy thinking, vaginal dryness, prolonged fatigue? Call 1-888-314-3413
HELP WANTED Bartenders/Cocktail Servers Wanted Looking for at least 2 years experience or customer service equivalent. Stop into the Rock for an application, 4129 N 7th Ave, Phoenix AZ 85013. 602-248-8559 Experienced Licensed Massage Therpist and Experienced Cosmetologist for upscale central Phoenix salon. Call George or David at 602277-8849 for more information.
LANDSCAPING
Rainbow Massage Therapy. Bring this ad in for $10.00 off your massage. Located near 7th Ave & Indian School. Swedish & Hot Stone. Call (602) 2651631 to make your appointment or e-mail rainbowmassagephx. com (MT-09329)
SPAS
VOX | Landscaping & Construction Complete landscaping design including walls, stucco, pavers, fireplaces, barbeques and metal work. Call Beth Rohlfs, Owner at 480538-8081 | ROC# 262709
Classified Ads Also Online!
Those interested in applying for either position should send the following documents: • Resume- Up-to-date. • Cover Letter - Should outline experience which meets the principle accountabilities and position requirements listed in the job description. • References - Names and telephone numbers of three references Please send the required documents as a single file (.doc or .pdf format) to nick@1n10.org and be sure to write “Camp Director” in the subject line of the message.
Desperado... Factory Direct. This 2008 6-person spa only $1,895. Spa & gazebo packages from $3,195. See ArizonaCustomSpas.com for more great deals. Custom build your backyard vacation today! Free Chemicals w/this ad. 623-251-5100.
< continued from page 40
An unusual ghost story set on the Peruvian seaside; a married fisherman struggles to reconcile his devotion to his male lover within his town’s rigid traditions.
Job Openings... < continued from page 37 • Mileage reimbursement provided. • No benefits offered.
Terms of Employment This is a grant-funded position for six (6) months and duration of employment is limited strictly to this time period.
Location Significant travel will be required for this position with mileage reimbursement available.
Essential Functions
ntouchaz.com
news / politics / business / opinion
function of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
While performing the duties of either position, the employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and distant vision. The noise level in the work environment is moderate to high. NOTE: The requirements listed in the above qualifications and essential functions are representative of the knowledge, skill, physical demands or work environment required or encountered that must be met by an employee to successfully perform each duty and each
Violet Tendencies In Violet Tendencies, the last of the fag hags -- loved, yet lonely -- endeavors to leave all her friends to find a man of her own. Will she have to change the person she is to get what she wants? With humor and hysteria, Violet Tendencies tells the true meaning of family. For a list of mixed, men’s and women’s short films go to desperadofilmfestival.com. Ticket information: General Public - $10; Students and Seniors - $8; All Access Event Pass - $88 - Includes the reception prior to our premier and entry into all films. “Build your own” Festival Pass - choose 5+ films at $9 per film. Box Office Phone Number - 602-787-7738
ntouchaz.com | February 2011 | Issue #79 | 53
ADVERTISER DIRECTORY Building a great community starts with you! Support these businesses that advertise in ‘N Touch News!
Adult Chute Chute Store Off Chute Too
chutestore.com 602-274-1429
Accomodations Holiday Inn Tucson Airport N
Photography
Landscaping 602-234-1654
520-746-1161
Automotive
480-538-8081
Danton Photography
Tyler Allen Law Firm, PLLC
602-456-0545
Tony Ray Baker/Tierra Ant.
Herman, Goldstein, & Forsyth
602-569-8200
Ronda Kelso
602-954-9313
J. Ross Firm
602-685-1177
VOX
Real Estate Services
Law Firms
602-992-2830
Massage
Community Tire Glendale
602-978-0251
Marc Anthony Massage
480-777-8366
Community Tire Airport
602-231-9090
Rainbow Massage
Community Tire 40th St/Univ
602-470-0677
Community Tire Cottonwood
928-634-0705
Salon Georvid
602-277-8849
Bookkeeping & Taxes Dave Connell
602-400-5383
In Touch Chiropractic
602-548-1998
Counseling / Addiction Man 2 Man
602-307-5330
Stonewall Institue
602-535-6468
623-694-4737
Melinda Murphy/ReMax
602-695-2900
602-234-2180
602-265-1631
Gentle Shepherd
602-864-6404
TIHAN
520-299-6647
Ain’t Nobody’s Biz (TUC)
520-318-4838
Restaurants
Chute
602-234-1654
Colors Restaurant (TUC)
520-323-1840
Coyote Moon Pub (TUC)
520-293-7339
IBT’s (TUC)
Night Life
Kobalt
623-931-0562 602-749-9228
Linda’s on Osborn
602-956-4420
520-882-3053
Slice of Sicily Pizza
602-667-3331
602-264-5307
Retail Shopping
loftcinema.com
Rainbow Cactus
602-971-1086
Rock, The
602-248-8559
Woody’s (TUC)
520-292-6702
Chute Store
chutestore.com
Off Chute Too
602-274-1429
STD Testing / Services AZMAN2MAN
Pets Central Phx Animal
Bitz-ee Mamas Caffé Italia
602-277-5155
Design & Web Services
Pawzapalooza
480-659-9933
Lionwood Visual Design
Speedway Vet. Hospital (TUC)
520-321-4235
602-413-0954
602-402-2459
Dorian Kreiling/ReMax
Community Church of Hope
Loft Cinema, The (TUC)
Chiropractic
GayTucson.com
Ron Houston/AZ Lifestyle
Religious
Community Tire North Phx
Beauty
480-287-3780
602-307-5330
Taxi/Transportation: Discount Cab
602-266-8747
Event Services Celebrate Your Life
623-463-3470
Financial Services Ameriprise Financial/Jarrod Dill 602-996-7355 Glenchrist Tax Preparation Wells Fargo
602-644-1045 wellsfargo.com
Florist Baisch & Skinner
602-285-0888
Health Care Dr. Damien Brandeis, NMD
480-855-6560
Dynamic Pathways Wellness
602-254-0071
Southern AZ AIDS Foundation
520-628-7223
Home Services Floor Source PartyLite
602-2-SOURCE 602-410-9825
Information PFLAG of Payson
928-476-2358
Insurance Ken Leombruno
602-971-5799
Internet Provider Qwest
888-923-6625
54 | Issue #79 | February 2011 | ntouchaz.com
news / politics / business / opinion
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