Options Newsmagazine-February 2014 by Options Magazine

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Rhode Island’s

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender

Community Newsmagazine

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2014

In this issue: 3 News Briefs 6 Calendar 8 Lesbians on the Loose! 10 Lets Talk About Sex 14 Polyamory: It Could Happen to You 17 RIWA 18 Youth Pride, INC 19 SAGE/RI 20 ICRI 21 AIDS Care Ocean State 22 RI Pride 23 AIDS Project Rhode Island 24 TGI Network 26 Resources

Congratulations on Marriage Equality RI!!

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News Briefs ACT-UP Co-Founder Carl Goodman Takes Own Life

Cavero and Goodman

Carl Goodman, a longtime AIDS activist and co-founder of AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power (ACT-UP), which held protests against government inaction in the 80s, committed suicide on January 5 by jumping to his death off the Mount Hope Bridge in Bristol. Goodman, who was living with AIDS, lived in Bristol, and is survived by his husband Mario Cavero.

am not convinced by any science I can find that people with definitively male DNA and definitively male anatomy can actually be locked in a cruel joke of nature because they are actually female."

The bill, which contains penalties of up to 14 years in prison and bans gay marriage, same-gender "amorous relationships" and membership of gay rights groups, was passed by the national assembly last May.

Gay Couples Are Happier

Under existing Nigerian federal law, sodomy is punishable by jail, but this bill legislates for a much broader crackdown on homosexuals, who already live a largely underground existence.

Great news for same-gender couples! They are much more likely to be happier and more positive about their relationships than their heterosexual counterparts, according to a new British study. The survey was aimed at finding out how modern couples maintain their relationships despite challenges.

Feds will recognize Utah same-gender marriages

The study also found that same-gender couples were less likely to offer public displays of affection because they feared disapproval, according to the report.

Nigerian leader signs anti-gay

Founded in 1987 at the Lesbian and Gay Community Services Center in New York, the organization devoted itself to AIDS advocacy, coining the phrase "Silence = Death."

Fox News Medical Specialist Not Convinced Transgender is Real

Keith Ablow wrote a column last month in which he claimed that giving children the freedom to make gender decisions is "destructive" and "toxic." "I don’t believe we have definitive data,” he continued, “that any male or female soul has ever in the history of the world been born into the wrong anatomic gender. Let me put that more clearly: I

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law, drawing U.S. fire

Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan signed a bill in January that criminalizes same-gender relationships, defying Western pressure over gay rights and provoking criticism from the United States.

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On January 10, the federal government announced that it will recognize the marriages of nearly 1,400 samegender couples in Utah, despite the state's refusal to do so. Attorney General Eric Holder cited the Supreme Court's decision in U.S. v. Windsor as justification for the recognition. "These families should not be asked to endure uncertainty regarding their status as the litigation unfolds," Holder said. The announcement came two days after Utah Gov. Gary Herbert, a Republican, put state recognition of the marriages "on hold" pending further court review. The 10th District Court has since ruled that the Utah ban is unconstitutional. Continued on Page 5

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From the Editor’s Desk Dear readers, It is with much emotion that I share with you my decision to leave Options, after eight years as its managing director. It has been an honor to be the steward of this fine newsmagazine, through the ups and downs, victories and sadnesses, the breezy times and the shoot-me-now times. It has afforded me the opportunity to work with wonderfully talented and dedicated individuals: the writers, advertisers and volunteers who have contributed so much – in many cases much more than I – and the inspiring, fascinating, zany people whose stories I have helped to tell in the pages of each edition. In this position, I helped to record our community’s history, being conscientious about including the news, events and people whose significance needed to be documented for posterity. I was also keenly aware of the importance of getting real stories and providing reminders – amid the celebrations – of how far we still have to go. In a rare and precious parallel between work and personal goals, my involvement with Options has helped me build community, and I took every chance I got to create understanding, promote tolerance and encourage dialogue.

Pride, where she has been a visible and committed member of the team that throws the Pride Festival and Parade every summer. You might know her through her entrepreneurial efforts to create spaces in Providence for women to enjoy live entertainment and each other’s company – I’m speaking here of Luna’s Ladies Nights and other collaborations. Or you might have encountered her behind the bar at GirlSpot. What you may not know about Jen is that she is also a bang-up editor – you are sure to discover this on your own in the coming months! I have no doubt that she will lead Options to new heights.

XXXII, No. 2

Managing Director Kim Stowell editor@optionsri.org Writers Tom Bertrand, Austen Bourassa, Chris Cedroni, Annie and Melanie Cronin-Silva, Chris Dalpe, Kelly Garrett, Bradford Greer, Sally Ann Hay, Kerri Kanelos, Kim Stowell Copy Editors Nathaniel Zane, Brian Gay, Mike Gallogly, Steve Kagan, Joseph Morra, Maria Phillips, Jennifer Stevens, Jim Seavor, Myra Shays Production Chris Cedroni Calendar Editor Lisé Schwartz calendar@optionsri.org Resources Editor Myra Shays mshays@verizon.net

I know I will miss Options very much. It was a most rewarding journey, and I’m so lucky to have been in the wrong place at the wrong time to end up with it in my lap that fateful day so many years ago.

General Information info@optionsri.org Advertising Kyle Marnane advertising@optionsri.org

Thank you all for the love, support and encouragement. It has truly been my delight to serve you. q

Billing Donny McKendall billing@optionsri.org

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Of course, Jen will not be doing this alone any more than I did. Assembled is a confident and spirited team to assist her in bringing to you the news of the RI LGBTQ community, and so I feel good about taking my leave.

I leave Options in excellent hands. Our new editor, Jennifer Stevens, is already known to many of you through her involvement with other LGBTQ community organizations including MERI and, currently, Rhode Island

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Rhode Island’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Newsmagazine Since 1982

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© OPTIONS 2014. Options is published ten times each year. The opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the governing board, volunteers or staff. Listings are provided as a resource and do not imply endorsement. Submissions to Options must be signed and accompanied by a phone number, but names may be withheld on request. Submissions, ads, calendar or resource listings for the March issue must be delivered by Feburary 10. Financial support is also always welcome. For a subscription, send us your name and address or subscribe online at www.optionsri.org. Moving? Send us your old address with your new address.

Continued from page 3

VA Governor signs LGBT antidiscrimination order

Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe signed an executive order on Saturday that prohibits workplace discrimination against LGBT state employees. McAuliffe, a Democrat, signed the order just hours after his inauguration ceremony in Richmond. "The foundational tenet of this executive order is premised upon a steadfast commitment to foster a culture of inclusion, diversity and mutual respect for all Virginians," the order said. While Tim Kaine and Mark Warner issued similar orders during their tenures as governor, McAuliffe's is the first to incorporate gender identity and expression protections.

Gay 'prisoner of conscience' dies in Cameroon

International, has died, according to a lawyer who worked on his case.

said Troy Stevenson, executive director of Garden State Equality.

Roger Jean-Claude Mbede, 34, had developed a hernia while in prison and was granted provisional release on medical grounds, but his family removed him from the hospital, according to attorney Alice Nkom. "His family said he was a curse for them and that we should let him die," she said. He died one month later, on January 10.

Top Brazilian diver comes out as gay

Cameroon brings more cases against suspected gays than any other African country, according to Human Rights Watch. The rights group said in a March 2013 report that at least 28 people had been charged under the law in the past three years.

LGBT advocates criticize Christie veto of birth certificate bill

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie vetoed a bill Monday that would have allowed transgender residents to change the gender listed on their birth certificates without undergoing gender reassignment surgery. Christie, a Republican, said the bill could create opportunities for fraud. “This was a simple bureaucratic change, which would have offered tremendous support to the transgender community, and have zero effect on anyone else,”

“From a young age, I knew I was gay, but it was not until now that I got to live my sexuality,” said Competitive Diver Ian Matos, 24, now living in Rio de Janiero. He said a friend advised him to stay closeted until after the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio, but Matos said the pressure of hiding boyfriends, avoiding gay parties and not being himself proved too much. He said he hoped that coming out would not impact his ability to be a successful diver and not cost him any potential sponsorship. q

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A gay man in Cameroon who was jailed for sending a text message to another man saying "I'm very much in love with you," and who was later declared a prisoner of conscience by Amnesty

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Calendar

is purchased at Books on the Square. For more information e-mail queerbookclub@gmail.com.

Got a big event coming up? Let us know about it! Send your listing by the 10th of the month preceding to calendar@optionsri.org, and we’ll see that it gets into the next edition.

February 2014 1

The Imperial Crown Prince and Princess Ball: Fire & Ice, 7 p.m. EGO, 73 Richmond St., Providence. Hosted by Prince Ryder Hard and Princess Roxie Van Cartier. Open show with special guest performances by Complete Destruction, Lola Rose, and Nadia Nyce. Doors open at 7 p.m. Show at 8 p.m. $10 donation with proceeds benefiting A Wish Come True.

Borderlands, 7-9 p.m. A peer-led support group open to transgender, transsexual, gender-variant, and/or intersex people and to those who are exploring whether one or more of these identities is a good description of their experience. Meeting location withheld for participant privacy. See info@tginetwork. org for more information.

PFLAG of Greater Providence meeting, 6:45-8:45 p.m. The Met School (Justice Building), 325 Public St., Providence. 7517571.

Poppy Champlin and Mimi Gonzalez comedy, 7:30 p.m. Terminal 110, 240 Sargent Drive, New Haven, CT. $20. Doors open at 6 p.m. For tickets and information call (203) 624-6200.

Dinner and Drag with Kitty Litter, 6:30 p.m. The Stadium Theatre, 28 Monument Square, Woonsocket. $36. Dinner provided by River Falls Restaurant is included with the price of admission. For tickets call 762-4545.

20 Pink Undies Gay Bingo, 7 p.m. Riviera Bingo Palace, 1612 Elmwood Ave., Cranston. Doors open at 6 p.m. $20 to play. Bingo benefits ACOS and APRI. Show us your best pink undies!

21 Boston Gay Men’s Chorus Cabaret: It’s Gettin’ Hot In Here, 8 p.m. Club Café, 209 Columbus Ave., Boston, MA. $35 general admission. Tickets may be purchased at www.bgmc.org. 22 RIWA Dance: Love, Italian Style, 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. Letter Carriers’ Hall, 174 Mayfield St., Cranston. Italian dishes and salad will be served at this potluck meal. Please bring pizza, or pesto pasta, or any other Italian dish. BYOB, with coffee and tea available. $10 for non-RIWA members. Information about membership will be available at the dance. 22 Becky Chace Band. Cady’s Tavern, 2168 Putnam Pike, Chepachet. For information see www.cadystavern.com or call 5684102. 22 Boston Gay Men’s Chorus Cabaret: It’s Gettin’ Hot In Here, 5 & 8 p.m. Club Café, 209 Columbus Ave., Boston, MA. $35 general admission. Tickets may be purchased at www.bgmc. org. 23 Boston Gay Men’s Chorus Cabaret: It’s Gettin’ Hot In Here, 3 p.m. VIP Performance. Club Café, 209 Columbus Ave., Boston, MA. $100 fundraiser. Tickets may be purchased at www. bgmc.org.

March 2014 1

Becky Chace Band, 7:30 p.m. Sandywoods Center for the Arts, 43 Muse Way, Tiverton. For tickets see www.sandywoodsmusic.com or call 241-7349.

RI Pride’s 15th Annual Goddess Show: A Celebration of Women in the Arts, 1-6 p.m. Chan’s, 267 Main St., Woonsocket. For more information, and to volunteer to help, e-mail jennifer.stevens@prideri.com.

Imperial Court of RI’s Murder Mystery Dinner at the Hotel Providence Ballroom, 139 Mathewson St., Providence. Proceeds will benefit the ICRI Scholarship Fund. Prices, times are still to be determined.

Sweet Honey in the Rock: Forty and Fierce! 5 p.m. Boston Symphony Hall, 301 Massachusetts Ave., Boston, MA. Tickets

RI Prime Timers, 4:30-7 p.m. Social and networking for gay and bisexual men 40+. Social, dinner and meeting. See www. riprimetimers.org or call Steve at 996-3010 for more information.

10 TransFamily New England, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free, confidential meeting for parents and other family members of someone identifying as transgender, gender variant, and/or intersex. Meetings held in Providence. E-mail jewcy15@gmail.com to be added to the contact list. 15 COLAGE, 10:30 a.m.-12 noon. The Gordon School, East Providence. A kid-centered place for youth ages 8 and up with one or more LGBTQ parents. To RSVP or to receive more information, e-mail Veronica at vjutras5@gmail.com. 18 Borderlands, 7-9 p.m. A peer-led support group open to transgender, transsexual, gender-variant, and/or intersex people and those who are exploring whether one or more of these identities is a good description of their experience. Meeting location withheld for participant privacy. See info@tginetwork. org for more information. 19 Queer Book Club, 7 p.m. Books on the Square, 471 Angell St., Providence. The Absolutist by John Boyne. Discount if book

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$30-70. Tickets may be purchased at www.celebrityseries.org. 4

PFLAG of Greater Providence meeting, 6:45-8:45 p.m. The Met School (Justice Building), 325 Public St., Providence. 751-7571.

RI Prime Timers, 4:30-7 p.m. Social and networking for gay and bisexual men 40+. Social, dinner and meeting. See www. riprimetimers.org or call Steve at 996-3010 for more information.

t an e W eet W M to u.

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Volunteer oportunities are available at Options Newsmagazine!

Contact editor@optionsri.org for more information!

Lesbians on the Melanie Silva and Annie Cronin-Silva

After a 6 month hiatus, the Lesbians on the Loose are back! Our lives took a drastic turn this summer. At the beginning of June, a pipe burst in our second-floor bathroom and flooded our house. We packed up our three fur babies Armani, Mercedes & Dolce and checked into a hotel. We originally thought it would be for 2-4 weeks. Instead, we moved back into our house on October 13. We were looking forward to a summer of fun with lots of parties and events. We kicked it off with Kitty Litter’s Birthday Hi-Tini at the Biltmore and the RI Pride Festival, but our summer of fun was short-lived. Tragically, at the end of June, Annie’s mother passed away unexpectedly. The news alone was devastating, but the fact that she had custody of her 15-year-old granddaughter Taylor made things even more painful. The outpouring of love and support we received still amazes us. Friends from Rhode Island, Connecticut and New Hampshire all traveled to Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, for the wake and memorial services. Seeing their faces was such a comfort. After the services, we had to decide what would happen to Taylor. After much discussion with the social workers and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,

o L we applied for guardianship. Life as we had known it was about to change in a very big way. The judge granted a temporary motion of guardianship, valid for 30 days. Within the 30 days, we were responsible for notifying Taylor’s biological father via a newspaper ad showing that a hearing had been scheduled for our request for guardianship. We celebrated on July 30 when the judge awarded Annie permanent custody. The rest of our summer consisted of moving Taylor to Rhode Island, enrolling her in school, taking her to doctor’s appointments, obtaining her transcripts from her previous high school, filing mom’s will and cleaning out and selling her house. To say our

s o

summer was emotionally draining and physically exhausting is the understatement of the year!

“We were looking forward to a summer of fun with lots of parties and events. We kicked it off with Kitty Litter’s Birthday Hi-Tini at the Biltmore and the RI Pride Festival, but our summer of fun was short-lived.”

Taylor’s transition, however, has been remarkable. Her guidance counselor

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! e

and teachers are amazed at how well adjusted she is, and we were thrilled when she recently received highest honors at school. Through lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worst moments, you really do find out who your true friends are. I look back on this summer with so much love and gratitude for our friends -- who we call framily; friends that are family. Your friendship is a true gift! To

our extended Options family and the LGBTQ community who let it be known that you missed our column: thank you for the support and patience as we struggled with getting back into the groove. We are slowly finding our way again and trying to navigate this thing called parenthood. It has definitely been a game changer for us, but we are both committed to this new family and

Lisa A. Eramo Professional writer & editor Website content, blogs, print articles, bios, resumes, cover letters, editing marketing, ghostwriting, and more!

making sure Taylor is a happy, healthy and confident young lady. Now if only we could master the task of teaching her to drive! Oy vey. q

Happy Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day from the Staff at Options Newsmagazine!

leramo@hotmail.com www.lisaeramo.wordpress.com options

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by chris cedroni

The Center for Sexual Pleasure and Health is the brainchild of Meghan Andelloux. She’s an attractive, well put-together and friendly director; somewhere between Bettie Page and a confident, well-educated Betty Crocker. Her demeanor is professional but casual, and she’s as good at listening as she is at giving advice. And when it comes to sex, she has a lot to say.

 photos by dina difusco

It shouldn’t surprise you to know that the Center for Sexual Pleasure and Health, located at 250 Main Street, Pawtucket, opened up amid controversy. “You want to teach BDSM to kids.” “You are trying to open a brothel.” “Why do we need to teach adults about sexual education, anyway?” According to Meghan, there are lots of reasons to teach sex ed to adults. While working at Planned Parenthood teaching teens about sexual health, she was getting a lot of questions about sexual pleasure—questions she wasn’t allowed to answer. She was doing sexual education at Miko, a feminist sex toy shop, and noticed that adults were asking the same questions. “This is bad,” she thought. “We [society] are producing sexually ignorant adults.” Her approachable demeanor and educational background (she is a Clinical Sexologist and a certified Sexuality Educator) soon put her in high demand. “I thought, why can’t we talk about sexuality the way people actually experience it?” In 2009, she decided to open a place where people could do just that. After a year of negotiating political landmines, gathering resources, and losing some 20 pounds due to the stress of it all, the CSPH finally opened its doors in February 2010. Megan wanted a location that was easy to get to, had bigger spaces for community events and smaller spaces for consultations, and was handicapped-accessible. Indeed, the CSPH is a feast for the eyes. Located in the Grant Building, it has all the threadbare charm of the Golden Age of Industry: hardwood floors, iron railings, a private and cozy loft for private meetings, and sunny space with a comfy couch where people can sit and quietly read. There’s even a loveable cat who strolls in from time to time. The location feels as welcoming as the set of the TV Show Friends, even if the walls are adorned with sex toys, displayed museum-style, some of which are so old they

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predate electricity. Shelves are filled with books about sex, contraptions to exercise your Kegels, and, of course, vagina puppets. The toys aren’t actually used, they’re a good way for the staff to explain the—ahem—ins and outs of sexual pleasure. And handicapped access doesn’t stop at the door. There is a whole section of sex toys for the physically challenged.

“Why can’t we talk about sexuality the way people actually experience it?”

Everyone above the age of 18 years old is welcome. The center is staffed by some 40 volunteers, interns and staffmembers. The programs, according to Megan, come in two flavors: Medical and Sassy. In addition to consultations, Megan teaches a sexual health elective at the Brown Medical School and lectures the medical community on issues that people aren’t talking about with their doctors. She also runs professional training programs for sexuality and health issues with youth. “We get a lot of referrals from doctors,” Meghan tells me. “Lots of people who have trouble achieving orgasms, both older women and college students. Through the Gemma Foundation, we have a monthly talk for women who have recently been diagnosed with Breast Cancer.” “I thought our client base would be 80 percent women before we opened, but a lot of men are coming to us with diminished sexual desire, erectile dysfunction and an inability to talk to their partners about their own sexual desires. Men really don’t have a place where they can talk about this kind of thing, until now.”

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Please send letters, wedding, birth and adoption announcements, obituaries etc. to: editor@optionsri.org or P.O. Box 6406, Providence 02940

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But it isn’t all dry, clinical work. “We have sex trivia night at locations in Providence, Boston and Montreal. And we have Smut Night, a sex-positive performance-driven event at AS220.” They also have queer and feminist ethical pornography nights periodically. And for the LGBTQ community? “Everything is infused at the center,” says Megan. “We don’t think of gay male sex or lesbian sex as being different than heterosexual sex, from a pleasure and health standpoint.” That vision of sex-as-equality is alive at the CSPH. “A lot of our volunteers self-identify as bisexual. Once, someone called and complained that our website had no resources on how to compassionately work with queeridentifying people. I looked at my staff and asked, ‘Is anyone here straight?’” She laughs. “Maybe we need to have programs for dealing with people who are straight-identifying.”

I told him “Nooooo no no no. We set him up with an email address and pointed him to some dating websites.” And? “He called me after his first blow job. He was so happy. Now he’s dating dudes.” Another happy, customer.

and

educated,

What’s next for the CSPH? “We just got our 501(c)3 status,” Megan says cheerfully. “This will allow us to reach out to more people, grow our programs and hopefully become a one-stop destination for consultations, fertility issues, and more sexual pleasure and health resources.” For more information on the Center for Sexual Pleasure and Health, visit www. thecsph.org. q

Men really don’t have a place where they can talk about this kind of thing, until now.”

“I had a consultation with a WWII veteran.” Megan tells me. “He knew he would die soon, but said he wanted to experience sex with another man and wanted to know how to use a condom, because he knew he should be using one.” At one point, he asked Megan, “Where do I meet men? Should I stand on a street corner?”

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I t Could H a ppen to Bradford Greer

Polyamory is not about recreational or promiscuous sex as so many seem to think. Polys are not a sex club or group of swingers. Most polys are not promiscuous although the name comes from the Greek work poly, meaning many, and the Latin word amor for love. Many loves. Building loving, mutually beneficial relationships which include more than one person is the concept. A provocative concept to be sure, and an idea so close to polygamy that it is often misconstrued. The rules and parameters between romantic and sexual partnerships in this decade are varied and can be easy to blur. Polygamy, the practice of one person taking multiple spouses, is illegal in most countries. No western country gives strong and equal legal protection to anyone married to more than one person. In most countries, however, it is not uncommon for couples to step discreetly outside their monogamous relationship for sexual or emotional fulfillment. Nor is it unheard of for married couples to engage with another sexual partner or to have multiple consensual sexual

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partners. Having multiple relationships is certainly not a new idea. Legend has it that some Native American tribes, as well as Scots-Irish and Welsh settlers engaged in multiple partnerships, and Joseph Smith of The Church of Jesus Christ and Latter-day Saints openly

practiced polygamy in the United States. If you lived through the 1960s

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and 1970s, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll remember free love and communal living. In the 1980s, couples living together before marriage or without marriage became more common. We may have cut our hair and joined condo associations but zippers on all sexes were still unzipping with more freedom and less relationship restrictions until HIV/AIDS became widespread. As we greeted 2014, we had all become more educated in having sex responsibly. Marriage may be on the rise but not in the conventional way our grandparents once embraced. Society has struggled to come a long way to try recognizing that everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives do not conform to the same rigid set of matrimonial rules. In polyamory, marriage may be present but is not a requirement. It is the practice of having more than one intimate relationship at the same time with the knowledge and consent of everyone involved. It is not patriarchal. There is not a significant dogma or doctrine to follow but rather a philosophy that emphasizes trust, loyalty, the negotiation of boundaries and compersion (an empathetic state of happiness and joy experienced when another individual experiences

happiness and joy). It is estimated that there are over 500,000 polyamorous relationships in America. Elizabeth, for example, found she did not conform well to the yoke of marriage and monogamy. She was always curious and upon discovering polyamory and after careful research, she couldn’t get into it fast enough. She does not struggle with this issue but works diligently to make it work in her life. Elizabeth formed a local group called Loving Southern New England, and about twenty-five people signed up within the first month. Now there are about 150 members in Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts. Elizabeth has been partnered with a man who has supported her efforts

to establish and run the group and is involved with a woman and another man as well. They are celebrating their fiveyear anniversary. The reactions from family members range from dubious to “let’s just not discuss it.” Mostly, though, they just want Elizabeth to be happy. Care must also be taken before disclosure to friends and co-workers.

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Communication with a capital “C” is the key to making it work. Indeed, communication is the linchpin in any relationship. The values of polyamory are, in fact, the same values strived for in any relationship. Poly relationships, however, work out specific agreements to help shine a light and illuminate the road ahead with a very specific focus on personal growth. Relationship

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agreements are very important so that “the things you want for each other are spelled out and understood,” shared Elizabeth. It is vitally important to dispel jealousies and fears with open communication on both sides. Adds Elizabeth, “Trust is vital. You have to know what to expect from your partner and they from you. If it’s important, you take the time to work it out.” Dating parameters depend upon the agreedupon dynamic. Monogamy may or may not be negotiated between all parties. Physical intimacy depends on the sexual attitudes and comfort level of the participants, and may vary from relationship to relationship within the primary relationship.

Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Check our calendar section in the front of this month’s edition!

It is not for everyone. This author has been on the precipice of a polyamory relationship twice: Once with a bisexual man and the woman he hoped to marry and the other with a same-sex couple in a long-term relationship. I stepped back both times with considerable angst and heartbreak all around. Perhaps I did not have a high-enough degree of sophistication. I did not see how I could be happy and thrive in those situations. I needed something more exclusive. Obviously not everyone does. According to The Polyamory Society: Polyamory emphasizes consciously choosing how many partners one wishes to be involved with rather than accepting social norms which dictate loving only one person at a time. It can get complicated, but with an attitude of “How can we make this work for all of us?” this lovestyle is gaining more and more acceptance as people search for individual ways to enrich their lives with others. For more information on polyamory, you can contact Elizabeth at meetup. com/loving-southern-new-england. q

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Rhode Island Women’s Association Jennifer Stevens

RIWA Kicks off New Year

The Rhode Island Women's Association (RIWA) has kicked off the New Year by establishing its own website, RI Women's Association Meetup, to increase the warm friendships and camaraderie among its members and the lesbian community. The new RIWA invites all lesbians to join us in this new adventure. Long before the justices of the U.S. Supreme Court struck down much of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), seven lesbians gathered together in 1978 and established RIWA for the purpose of creating a women's social group as "an alternative to the bars" and a safe place where women of the community could meet and obtain emotional support. Moving forward 35 years, things have changed in major ways. While maintaining confidentiality of its members, RIWA's new Meetup site features RIWA's dances and events while publicizing other activities of interest to the community. The Meetup site is open to all lesbians. "We are strong, powerful and electrically charged," said Lorraine, 2014’s newly elected Chairwoman. "I am excited

about the newly elected RIWA Steering Committee. The committee consists of eight members, who work hard for the enjoyment of others," Lorraine asserted. On the committee are Cathy, Lynn, Leslie, Louise, Tweeter, Buddy, and Rayleen. These women love the organization and love women. Joining the Meetup site is free; however, the annual fee for RIWA membership is $25 which is the best deal in the state. For this small fee, members can attend six privately held dances with our own DJ Sharon. The first dance is slated for Saturday, February 22nd; its theme is Love, Italian Style. Who would not want to spend an evening in Italy surrounded by women of all ages? The dance includes a potluck of Italian food brought by RIWA members and dance attendees. One of our members, Sue, an accomplished pianist and accordion player, is expected to serenade the early birds by playing her accordion in true Italian style. Women who are not RIWA members can still attend the dance; however, their cost is $10 for just one dance. RIWA, a non-profit corporation, spends over $425 to sponsor each private dance since a hall is rented, a DJ is hired, and coffee, soda, and water are provided. All events are BYOB, but because everyone is too busy dancing, talking with friends or making new friends, not much alcohol is consumed.

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RIWA members have to be 21 years of age while our sister organization, the Orioles, is for women fifty or over. Almost as old as RIWA, the Orioles, "Organization of RI Older Lesbian Energy," include a great group of women who dine out frequently and enjoy each other's friendship in a very close way. If you would like to know more about the Orioles, Carla is the contact woman. You can email her at sejasrun@hotmail.com; otherwise, you can contact one of the RIWA Committee Members at the Meetup site. Also new for the 2014 season are the member dance committees. Each dance will be organized by a dance committee of diverse volunteers led by an appointed dance coordinator, which encourages greater member participation, fosters camaraderie, and expands the rich friendships which have maintained RIWA's 35-year existence. This change helps each coordinator and her committee to develop further leadership skills and encourages their creativity. RIWA's dance schedule is set and other events are being planned, like our January book discussion. So check out what's happening at RIWA via our Meetup site at www.meetup.com/ Rhode-Island-Womens-Association. We would be delighted to have you join us. q

Got a story to tell? Contact Options at 724-LGBT • info@optionsri.org for deadlines and submission guidlines! q

Youth Pride, Inc. Kerri Kanelos

options

Holiday Thank You!

Drop-In Changes

We are so thankful to all the individuals who donated food, gifts and time to make our Thanksgiving dinner and holiday party successful! We particularly want to recognize the following businesses and organizations—Hasbro Inc. for providing us with eight people who decorated our space and baked cookies as part of their Global Day of Joy; Johnson & Wales University, Salon 211 and the Providence Gay Men’s Chorus for holding food drives for our kitchen and for donations to our Thanksgiving dinner; Hasbro Inc.’s HEART members for donating many gifts for our holiday swap; and Anthony Santurri for providing many of the dishes for our Thanksgiving dinner.

Starting in February, there are changes coming to the drop-in center schedule so we can focus more of our efforts on youth leadership development opportunities and to outreach to new youth throughout Rhode Island. Please visit the Google calendar on the front page of our website (youthprideri.org) to review the new schedule.

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Health Fair Youth between the ages of 13 and 23 are welcome to join us for our annual Health Fair on Friday, February 28 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. There will be many vendors on site providing information about nutrition, physical health, HIV prevention, dating violence, substance abuse, etc. Attendees will have the opportunity to win prizes, too! q

SAGE/RI

Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders Sally Ann Hay people enroll in the health insurance program that best suited them. If you missed the event visit www. healthsourceri.com to enroll, or call 1-855-840-4774. We care about you; get covered!

Let’s Hear it for Fun!

If you missed our movie night at Youth Pride, Inc. (YPI) in January, you missed a great night. A good mix of older and younger LGBT folks gathered to watch Kinky Boots, a light-hearted film about a straight fellow who seeks out a new niche market for the family’s failing shoe business. His efforts to save drag queen Lola from some street thugs ultimately leads him to the idea of creating boots for men who dress as women. After the movie, our discussion of labels and self-identity, and the depiction of LGBT people in movies and TV today was lively and informative across generational lines. Pizza, dessert and new friends made for a fabulous evening and the repeated request that we do this again.

To Your Health

SAGE/RI is looking forward to working with AIDS Project RI (APRI) to provide HIV testing for gay and bisexual men of all ages. We are particularly concerned about our elders who are equally at risk for acquiring the virus. APRI will be working with a number of local groups to promote testing, so there will be a variety of opportunities to get tested. Look for the SAGE/RI event sometime in the spring. Testing is anonymous, free and easy. And, did we mention, it saves lives?

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Events – We haven’t made our calendar yet but odds are good it will include a membership event, a movie here or there, another Dining Out for Life gathering, and RI’s 2nd Annual GLBT Health Fair, and more. Be sure you are on our email list and/or follow us on Facebook for the most up-to-date announcements.

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2014 will be a year of strengthening our infrastructure which will require additional resources, increased visibility and new alliances. We are particularly encouraged that Lt. Governor Elizabeth Roberts (and members of her staff) are mindful of the important work to be done to improve the lives of RI’s LGBT elders and are stepping up to help SAGE/RI address some of the challenges we are currently facing. As always, stay tuned – it’s going to be a great year!

The Year Ahead Thanks to all of you who joined and/or renewed your membership in SAGE/ RI in the past months – we have been gratified to see our membership roll grow. We have a couple of big projects to tackle in 2014, and we will be looking for your support, encouragement and involvement along the way. •

SAGE/RI and several other RI LGBT organizations were delighted to cosponsor a program in late January with HealthSource RI, Rhode Island’s health benefits exchange. Specifically intended for LGBT Rhode Islanders, the event was designed to answer questions, discuss options and help

bureaucratic challenges to be dealt with before we can start asking people to complete the survey. Bob Desrosiers, who is directing the survey, is hopeful that it will be ready in a few months.

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The LGBT Senior Housing SubCommittee continues to work on its vision of creating affordable, safe and comfortable housing options for RI’s LGBT elders. They have reached out to experts across the country and know that the creation of a physical space will take many years. They also are working on some shorter-term goals that will focus on improving the LGBT cultural competency of professionals and staff who work with LGBT seniors in existing programs.

SAGE/RI (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders) addresses issues of concern to LGBT elders and is an organization of diverse people of all ages. For information on programs or to join SAGE/RI, drop us a line at sageriinfo@gmail.com; leave us a message at 401-528-3259; write to us at 235 Promenade St., Suite 500, Box 18, Providence, RI, 02908; or find us on Facebook at SAGE/Rhode Island.

SAGE’s Older Gay Men’s Health Survey is being done in conjunction with the University of Rhode Island’s School of Nursing which means there are various

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PORTRAITS

Imperial Court of RI Austen Bourassa

Scholarship Applicants Wanted

The Imperial Court of Rhode Island is currently seeking individuals to apply for our Imperial Court of Rhode Island Memorial Scholarship Fund. The individuals must be a graduate (or about to graduate) from high school (or equivalent) this spring and interested in pursuing further studies from an accredited school (college, community college, trade, technical, etc.). This individual must also identify as a member of the LGBTQ community or who has a parent or guardian who identifies as a member of the LGBTQ community.

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Last year’s winner was Amelia Berg. In addition to winning $1000 to assist her with educational expenses at Brandeis University, she also received two complimentary tickets to last year’s Imperial Court of Rhode Island Coronation! It was at coronation that she was presented with this honor. This year’s winner will also receive a scholarship and 2 complimentary tickets to coronation which is being held on April 26 at the Providence Biltmore Hotel. The scholarship fund was created by Emperor XVIII Big Daddy Austen Daniels and Empress XVIII Jacqueline DiMera as an opportunity to give back to the Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts’ LGBTQ community and promote higher education. In addition to the many applications that are being solicited to area high schools and colleges, applications may be obtained by downloading the scholarship form at the Court’s website: www.icriprov. org or by emailing Austen at: austen.bourassa@yahoo.com. All application submissions must be postmarked by Friday, March 14th! The Imperial Court of Rhode Island, currently in its 21st year of existence, is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization and is a chapter of the International Court System. The International Court System, founded in 1965, is an international non-profit organization with over 65 chapters spanning the countries of the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The mission of the International Court System is to perform noble deeds and services to each of the communities in its chapter cities. Each chapter is an autonomous organization bound together in shared structure, policies and goals.

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AIDS Care Ocean State Christopher Dalpe

Send Us Your Receipts! We want ‘em!

Eastside Marketplace is giving back to the community by donating a portion of all receipts Aids Care Ocean State (ACOS) receives back to us. ACOS is encouraging all Eastside Marketplace shoppers to send us your receipts! Please send us all of your Eastside Marketplace receipts, whether they are for a dollar or for $100. Start a collection at your gym or office, it’s that easy. This is a free, fast, and fun way to give back to Rhode Island’s largest AIDS service agency. Please mail all of your receipts to Stephen Hartley at 18 Parkis Ave., Providence, RI 02907.

Drop Off Your Donation Today!

ACOS needs your stuff! Now that winter is in full swing, we are in need of winter jackets, gloves, hats, and scarves. ACOS’s donation center is looking for donations of winter clothing and other household items. Our donation center hours are Monday through Wednesday and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The donation center is closed on Thursdays. You can drop your items off to our donation center at 557 Broad Street in Providence: or we can arrange to come and pick-up your items. To schedule a pick-up, please call us at 781-5565.

Difference Foundation, with their team of youth volunteers, donated and unloaded a truck of turkeys for our clients for Thanksgiving. We then had an incredible array of toy drives that resulted in over 1,700 toys delivered to the children of ACOS for the holidays. We would like to thank Toys for Tots, The Stable, The Dark Lady, The Alley Cat, Tony Dilorenzo, the Annual Christmas Drag Brunch, Gala Bowling, the W Salon, Bank RI at Park Ave., Town Hall Lanes, John Abernathy, Debbie Blitz, Dan Barbara, Tim Harrigan, Paul Drummond, Frank Saccoccia, Blue Cross Blue Shield of RI, Family Services of RI, City Year, Mr. Bear RI 2013, Stephen Hogan’s Toy Drive, Charlie McGraw, Method Fitness, Sun in the City, Bobby’s Place, Gay Bingo, Sports Legends, the Met School and Cymry’s Christmas Wish for making the holiday season memorable for the clients of ACOS. We would also like to thank the Providence Firefighters Union Local 799 for their donation to Sunrise House this holiday. From the entire staff of ACOS, we would like to thank everyone for their generosity. We are extremely grateful for all of the donations that made the holidays memorable for our clients.

2013 Holiday Giving Highlights

ACOS is delighted to announce that we had a very successful holiday fundraising season. With the help of many local businesses, individuals, offices and more, we were able to raise over $20,000 for our annual Adopt-a-Family campaign. The giving season started off strong when the Make-a-

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as a Volunteer • Advertiser • Writer 724-LGBT • info@optionsri.org options

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RI Pride By Jennifer Stevens

The 39th Annual RI PrideFest & Night Parade will be Saturday, June 21. Vendor and parade applications are available at www.prideri.com. Don’t delay! Early registration means better rates, and vendor booths have been selling out more quickly each year. Entertainment applications are also available and must be received by March 1 to be considered by Pride’s entertainment committee.

All are welcome to attend RI Pride’s General Meeting on Wednesday, February 26, at 7 p.m. in the Pride Center - 1005 Main St., #1105, Pawtucket in the Hope Artiste Village. It’s a great meeting for past and present volunteers as well as folks new to the area or new to the Pride organization where we discuss what’s happening within the community and how to get involved.

The 15th Annual RI Pride Goddess Show: A Celebration of Women in the Arts will take place Sunday, March 2, from 1-6 p.m. at Chan’s in Woonsocket, and will feature acoustic musician Susan Souza, poet Marie Michaelle, The Mary Day Band, headliner Rachael Sage and other local performers. Please visit www.prideri.com for advanced ticket sales.

Rhode Island Pride is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to promoting the visibility, equality and diversity of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community and providing safe space to come out, express and celebrate their sexual identities and gender. Board meetings are open to the public, and general meetings are always listed in the Options calendar. For more information, email info@prideri.com or call 401-467-2130.

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A membership organization focused on: • Shared Member Contact Information • Professional Networking • Philanthropic Causes • Member Benefits

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For more information, please contact: Phil Laffey at 401-727-4100, visit RI AGP on Facebook or email us at info@riagp.com

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Photography by

Richard Benjamin

2014

AIDS Project Rhode Island Tom Bertrand, MPH

RI Alliance for Gay/ Bisexual Men’s Health Seeking Members for 2014

include improving the Men2MenRI. org website, exploring the impact of substance and alcohol use on gay/bi men in Rhode Island and promoting increased access to condoms and rapid HIV testing.

The Rhode Island Alliance for Gay/ Bisexual Men’s Health (The Alliance) is seeking people who want to participate in efforts to improve the health of men in Rhode Island in 2014. Formed in the fall of 2013, one of The Alliance’s biggest projects has been the development of the Men2MenRI. org website. The website debuted in May 2013 and has had over 2,500 visits in recent months.

Men of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to join The Alliance, which meets on the first Monday of every month at 5:00 p.m. For more information, please contact Thomas Bertrand, Executive Director of AIDS Project Rhode Island at Thomas@aidsprojectri.org. q

Priorities for The Alliance in 2014

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TGI Network

USE THE WHOLE RAINBOW!

Kelly Garrett

Becoming Allies to People in Trans* Communities

As an educator, I often meet folks who want to become allies to people in LGBTQ communities. When talking about allies, we most often think of heterosexual people who are active agents against homophobia and heterosexism (oppression based on sexual orientation). Those of us who are cisgender and identify under the LGBQ+ umbrella may feel that we are automatically allies to people in trans* communities without fully recognizing our cisgender privilege. In these instances, the “T” is silent and trans* oppression is often overlooked.

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So what does the term cisgender mean and how can cisgender people be better allies to trans* communities? The term cisgender (pronounced “sis-gender” and abbreviated as “cis”) is used to describe someone whose selfidentified gender identity is in line with the biological sex and gender they were assigned at birth. For example, as a cisgender woman my personal identity as a woman is in line with the biological sex (female) and the gender identity (girl/woman) I was assigned at birth.

OPTIONS NEWSMAGAZINE!

Learning to be an ally is a lifelong process, and as a cisgender lesbian who strives to be an ally

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to people in trans* communities, I consider the process a journey and not a destination. While there are a few similarities between the ways that people are oppressed based on sexual orientation and gender identity, there are many differences that are important to recognize. As aspiring allies, it is important for cisgender folks of all sexual orientations to take the initiative to learn about our own cisgender privilege and how we can actively address transphobia and trans* oppression. We should not expect trans* people to always be our primary educators but it is extremely important to listen to trans* people when they are sharing their stories. Also, we should make sure trans* people are at the table when we’re discussing LGBTQ+ policy development. There are many resources that are easy to find online, but if you would like more information about cisgender privilege and ways to educate yourself, please feel free to contact me at kelly_garrett@ brown.edu. q

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• Stay informed! • Catch up with friends! • Get the inside scoop on upcoming features, events, and volunteer oportunities • Give us your opinions and feedback!

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Resources Help us help you: If you come across a resource listing that is incorrect or needs updating, please let us know! Drop a line to mshays@verizon.net. NOTE: All phone numbers are in the 401 area code unless otherwise indicated.

Addiction Support Groups AA: Brothers in Sobriety, Community Church of Prov., Wayland & Lloyd Aves., Prov., 7519328; Sat., 7:30-8:30 p.m.; Central Services, info on all groups, 438-8860; RI LGBT Group, Anchor Recovery Center, 249 Main St., Pawtucket, Tues. 7 p.m.; Suburban Gay & Lesbian, Fatima Shrine, Rt. 126, Holliston, MA, Thurs. 8-9:30 p.m. Alcohol/Drug Helpline. RI Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence, 24-hr., (866) 2523784. Gay Al-Anon: Tues. 7:30 p.m., Congregational Church, 71 Park Place, Pawtucket, 726-2800.

AIDS/Health Resources ACT-UP (AIDS Coalition To Unleash Power), a group of individuals united in anger, committed to ending AIDS pandemic through direct action. Call Scott 640-3108. info@actupri. org. Donations welcome! Afia Center for Health & Wholeness: socializing with other HIV+ individuals. Meals, food pantry, HIV support groups, recovery groups, recreational and social activities. Wed & Thurs, noon to 4 p.m., at Matthewson St. Church, 134 Matthewson St., Prov. Sponsored by AIDS Project RI; free to clients. Gordon Cooper, 331-1350 Ext. 3268 or coopergo@ familyserviceofri.org. AGAPE/Family Resources Community Action. Case management, support, personal care items for people living with HIV/AIDS in Northern Rhode Island. 245 Main St., Woonsocket, RI 02895. 235-6092. lcohen@famresri.org. AIDS Action Hotline: (800) 235-2331, MA only. AIDS Care Ocean State (557 Broad St., Providence): case mgmt., emergency funds, mental health & nutrition support, FACTS Nursery, housing for PWAs, referrals, advocacy, ADa.m.S Clinic for adolescents, street outreach, ENCORE, education, HIV+ support groups. Sunrise Community Housing for people with HIV/AIDS. 18 Parkis Ave., Prov. 02907. 521-3603; www.aidscareos.org. AIDS Project RI Division of Family Service of RI: Case mgmt., buddies, COBRA & dental services, emergency fund, mental health counseling, nutrition support, assessment & referral, wellness prog., advocacy, strength

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training. Prevention Ed. 404 Wickenden St., Providence: 831-5522. AIDS Quilt RI: Displays local AIDS Memorial Quilt panels; panel-making programs, including Annaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Workshop, HIV/AIDS education for young people; PO Box 2591, Newport, RI 02840; 434-4880; www.aidsquiltri.org; admin@aidsquiltri.org; annasworkshop@aidsquiltri.org. Brown Univ. AIDS Program (BRUNAP): clinical trials, public policy, research; lectures/conferences, patient/community education. Bradford Briggs, 863-6790. brunap@brown.edu; www.brown.edu/brunap. Chiropractic Services: Free for unemployed HIV+ patients, Ronald P. Marsh, DC., 11 King Charles Dr., Portsmouth, RI; 683-1941. Comprehensive Community Action Programs (CCAP) Medical, mental health, dental, social services. 311 Doric Ave., Cranston. 467-9610. Also Coventry and Warwick. Sarah Bowman, LGBT Outreach. Crossroads RI Health Care Services: Free, confidential, anonymous HIV counseling & testing for homeless/at risk: Mon & Wed, 1-3 p.m., call Gloria, 521-2255, Ext. 325. FACTS (Family AIDS Center for Treatment & Support): See AIDS Care Ocean State. Gabriel Care, LLC: Nursing/social worker case mgmt. & financial compensation for assistance and supervision for those living with HIV. MA Health funded for MA residents. Michael (508) 678-1002.

BTs caring for someone with chronic health problems, visit www.caregiver.org and click on groups. Luis E. Martinez House CHS, Inc.: Supportive, permanent housing for 10 adults living with HIV/AIDS and/or substance abuse. New Bedford, MA. Contact Joe Taylor (508) 984-7514. Partners in Learning About AIDS (PL-AIDS) Outreach to minorities, women of color, and LGBT community at clubs and other locations, and our No. Providence office, providing free condoms and information about STIs and post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV. www. plaidsproject.org or www.pl-aids.org. Email info@plaidsproject.org. 305-3993. Project ACT: Free Anonymous HIV Counseling and Testing. Walk-in Hours: Mondays 9 a.m.4 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Other hours by appointment only. 1 Washington St., Taunton, MA (508) 977-8146 Project Empower: Wellness prog. for gay, bi, questioning men in So. Coast MA. Info on HIV/STD test sites & safe sex; social/support groups, therapists & health care referrals; & more. Community Counseling of Bristol Co., MA. (508) 828-6692 or www.projectempower.com. Project Weber: Services for male sex workers. Drop-in center, support groups, HIV and Hep C testing, clean needles, more. www.facebook. com/projectweber, or www.projectweber.org

Home and Hospice Care of RI: Medical care mgmt. for HIV/AIDS. 24-hr. nursing staff for treatment. 782-0725. Bereavement Groups: John Charette, 727-7079.

SSTAR (Stanley St. Treatment & Resources): counseling, drug treatment, detox, domestic violence programs; Free, confidential HIV, HEP C (HCV) & STD testing, education, case mgmt. and support. 386 Stanley St., Fall River, MA 02720. (508) 679-5222. Project Aware (HIV/HCV) (800) 937-3610, Family Healthcare center (508) 675-1054; www.sstar. org.

HPV study for gay/bi men ages 18 -- 26. Receive free HPV vaccine and HIV testing. Must be HIV-negative. Call Gail at Miriam Hospital (793-4335) or Email gyates@lifespan.org.

Tranquil Mind & Wellness: Counseling, alternative healing, yoga, Pilates, meditation and more. 105 Charles Eldridge Dr, Lakeville, MA. (508) 947-1683.

House of Compassion: HIV/AIDS housing. 2510 Mendon Rd., Cumberland. 658-3992.

Thundermist Health Assoc.: 450 Clinton St. Woonsocket, provides HIV/AIDS services including: medical care & treatment by an HIV specialist, dental care, behavioral health counseling, nutritional assessment & counseling, pharmacy consultation, free, confidential HIV

HIV antibody testing, Anonymous: R.I. Dept. of Health, Prov., Newport and other locations, Free or sliding scale, call 222-2320.

Jewish AIDS Task Force: Programs for HIV/AIDS and Jewish communities. 421-4111, ext. 172. LGBT Caregiver Online Support Group for LG-

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testing. Philip Kane 767-4100 Ext. 3516.

cover. 99 India Street, Pawtucket RI 02860

Be There and Be Queer!

T.W.I.S.T. Program Coffee Night: Coffee, light snacks served every Thursday, 7 – 9 p.m. 1287 Acushnet Ave., New Bedford. 508-672-0378.

Lawyers for Equality and Diversity (LEAD): Advocates for lgbt causes. lawyersforequality@ gmail.com

Union: 200 Union St. Prov. 831-5366. Video lounge, live entertainment. Sun. 6 p.m.-1 a.m., Mon.-Thur. 3 p.m.-1 a.m., Fri.-Sat. 6 p.m.-2 a.m.

Marriage Equality RI: info@marriageequalityri. org

The Alley Cat/Dark Lady: 17 Snow St. Prov. 2730951 Downtown neighborhood bars. Sun.Thur. 3 p.m.-1 a.m., Fri.-Sat. 3 p.m.-2 a.m. http://thealleycat.net. Bobby’s Place, 62 Weir St., Taunton, MA (508) 824-9997. Dancing, pool, video lounge, karaoke. Mon.-Thurs. 5 p.m.- 1 a.m.; Fri. 5 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sat. 2 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sun. 2 p.m.-1 a.m. www.BobbysPlaceMA.com. Brooklyn Coffee Tea House: 209 Douglas Ave., Prov. 575-2284. Special events space. Open mike First & Third Sat. of each month. Film screenings and other public/private events. See us on Facebook and at www.BrooklynCoffeeTeaHouse.com. Club Body Center: 257 Weybosset St., Prov. 2740298 www.clubbodycenter.com. Gay men’s sauna. Membership required. One-day pass available. Open 24 hours daily. Deville’s: 345 South Water St., Prov. Lesbian, gay, straight, it’s all good. 383-8883, www.devillescafe.com. Ego, Providence’s newest Nightlife Performance/ Event Space. Thurs. 9 p.m. -- 1 a.m., Sat. 9 p.m. -- 3 a.m. 73 Richmond St, Providence. 383-1208. Providence Eagle: 198 Union St., Prov. 421-1447. Leather, Levi, bear cruise bar. Sun-Thurs 3 p.m.-1 a.m., Fri, Sat 3 p.m.-2 a.m. Mega-Plex and Hush Providence: 257 Allens Ave., Prov. www.themega-plex.com. Gay men’s bathhouse. Open 24 hours daily. Membership required. One day pass available. The Stable: 125 Washington St., Prov. 272-6950. Newly renovated downtown bar. Pool table. Sun - Thurs noon - 1 a.m.; Fri - Sat noon - 2 a.m. Tommy’s Lounge Gay/Lesbian Night each Friday (21-plus) Doors open 8 p.m. Music from 80’s, 90’s and today’s hits on the video screen. $5.00

For a

FREE

subscription,

Information/Education Feminist Voices: women’s chorus. www.feminist-

voices.com. Fenway Gay and Lesbian Helpline: support, info & referrals for GLBT community from Fenway Community Health Ctr., Boston; (617) 267-9001 or 888-340-4528, 6-11 p.m. seven days a week. GLBT National Help Center Hotline. Local resources nationwide provided by social services agency. 888-843-4564. www.GLBTNationalHelpcenter.org. NewportOut.com: LGBT Web site for Newport, RI. RILGBT-NEWS: Low-volume email distribution list for LGBT & AIDS news from RI. Not a discussion list. To subscribe: tinawood@cox. net. United Way of RI Referral Line: 2-1-1 Youth Pride, Inc. HIV Peer Educators: discussion, games, thought-provoking and empowerment activities. Led by trained youth educators. Free. 421-5626.

Political & Legal Groups American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): 8317171; 128 Dorrance St., Suite 220, Prov., RI 02903. Amnesty International OUTfront: Program to campaign globally for LGBTIQ human rights. Cvohs18904@yahoo.com or 212-807-8400. Visit www.amnestyusa.org/Our Issues/LGBT Human Rights. BIGFLAG (Boston Immigration Group for Lesbians And Gays): social/support for LGBTs affected by immigration discrimination. (617) 499-9433. Brown University Queer Alliance: student advocacy and support organization. 683-3062. Email: queer@brown.edu

write to: Options

P.O. Box 6406, Providence, RI 02940

or visit www.optionsri.org contributions gaily accepted

Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD): LGBT/HIV legal info hotline, 1:30-4:30 p.m. weekdays, (800) 455-GLAD. www.GLAD. org; 30 Winter St., Ste 800, Boston, MA 02108.

Options

Green Party of RI: PO Box 1151, Prov., RI 02901; 490-7602.

Read by the Rhode Island LGBT

Lambda Legal Defense & Education Fund: 120 Wall St., Suite 1500, NY, NY 10005; (212)

community since 1982. options

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809-8585, Fax: (212) 809-0055.

The Next Thing (TNT): political and support group for queer people of color located at Brown University. Contact the Brown Queer Alliance, 863-3062. Rhode Islanders United for Marriage: 274-1323. www.RIUnitedforMarriage.org. RI Commission on Prejudice and Bias: hate crime awareness training program www.hatecrimeri. org. RI Human Rights Commission: Anti-discrimination law enforcement agency with jurisdiction in employment, housing, public accommodations and credit, 180 Westminster St., 3rd floor Prov. Phone: 222-2662. Fax: 222-2616, TDD: 222-2664. RI Patient Advocacy Coalition: legalization of marijuana use for medical purposes. www. RIpatients.org. RI Socialist Action: adgagneri@gmail.com. 9525385. Español: walsil@cox.net. 351-3414 Servicemembers Legal Defense Network: Assisting active duty service members affected by the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. PO Box 65301, Wash., DC, 20035; (202) 328-3244, ext. 100, sldn@sldn.org, www.sldn.org. Straight But Not Narrow Coalition: Straight support for LGBT, PO Box 2591, Newport, RI 02840; 847-7637.

Religious Resources All Saints’ Memorial Church, 674 Westminster St., Providence. 751-1747 www.allsaintsmemorial.org. asmcri@verizon.net Amicable Congregational Church (UCC), 3736 Main Rd., Tiverton. Open & Affirming. Sunday worship 10:00 a.m. Pastor William Sterrett, 624-4611. Email amicablechurch@aol. com Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists, email: mail@WABaptists.org. Barrington Congregational Church (UCC) “the white church”, 461 Old County Rd., Barrington. 246-0111.www.bccucc.org Bell Street Chapel (Unitarian Universalist), A Welcoming congregation: 5 Bell St., Prov., Rev. Ann Willever. 273-5678, www.bellstreetchapel.org. Beneficent Congregational Church (UCC), in the heart of Providence at 300 Weybosset St. An Open & Affirming congregation since 2001. Visit us Sundays at 10 a.m. or on the Web at www.beneficentchurch.org. Co-Pastors Todd

& Nicole Yonkman, 331-9844. Berean Baptist Church, a safe and welcoming place for all God’s children. 474 Chapel St., Harrisville, RI. www.bereanri.org; bereanbaptist@verizon.net. 568-5411. Worship 10 a.m. Sundays. Calvary Episcopal Church, Open and welcoming. 158 Broad St., Burrilville, RI. 568-3888. www.calvaryepiscopal.us.email, calvary125@ aol.com. Calvary United Methodist Church of Middletown, 200 Turner Rd., Middletown, RI 02842. 847-6181. Ask Amy about LGBTQ Early Dementia support group. Central Congregational Church (UCC), where we believe God is still speaking. Services Sunday, 10:30 a.m. An Opening & Affirming Congregation. 296 Angell St., East Side of Providence. 331-1960. www.centralchurch.us. Channing Memorial Church, Unitarian Universalist, A Welcoming Congregation, 135 Pelham St., Newport. Call 846-0643 or visit www.channingchurch.org. Charter Oak Grove ADF, an open and welcoming congregation of neopagan druids in CT. www. charteroakadf.org. Email charteroakadf@ gmail.com. Christ Church in Lonsdale (Episcopal), 1643 Lonsdale Ave., Lincoln. Services 8 and 10:30 a.m. www.christchurchlincoln.org. 725-1920. Church of the Epiphany, 1336 Pawtucket Ave., Rumford. 434-5012. A diverse Open & Affirming Episcopal congregation. www.epiphanyep.org Church of the Holy Paraclete, Independent Old Catholic; Mass every Sunday at 6 p.m. 155 Douglas Ave., Providence. http://holyparaclete.org; Fr. Jakob Lazarus 218-0706. Edgewood Congregational Church (UCC) Open & Affirming, 1788 Broad St., Cranston. 4611344. www.edgewoodchurchri.org. Emmanuel Episcopal Church. 120 Nate Whipple Highway, Cumberland RI 02864. 658-1506. First Congregational Church in Bristol, an Open and Affirming Congregation. 281 High Street, Bristol. Pastor Dan Randall, 253-7288. First Unitarian Church. A Welcoming congregation at One Benevolent St., Prov.; 421-7970. Services Sunday 10:30 a.m. First Unitarian Church. 71 8th St., New Bedford, MA 02740. (508) 994-9686. First Universalist Society, Franklin, MA: UU. Welcoming congregation. Same-gender weddings. 262 Chestnut St. (508) 528-5348. www.fusf.org. Email fusf@verizon.net Foxboro Universalist Church, Unitarian Universalist Association. 6 Bird St., Foxboro, MA

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02035. 508-543-4002. Welcoming congregation, marriage ceremonies. www.uufoxborough.org Grace Episcopal Church in Providence, 175 Mathewson Street, Providence. 331-3225. Immanuel Lutheran Church: A Reconciling in Christ congregation, 647 N. Main St., Attleboro, MA 02703. Pastor Sandra Demmler Damico (508) 222-2898, www.immanuellc. org. Interweave at Channing UU Church in Newport, 135 Pelham St. A membership organization for the spiritual, political and social well-being of LGBTQ persons -- and their allies -- confronting oppression. 846-0643. Mathewson St. Church (United Methodist), 134 Mathewson St., Prov., 331-8900. Meditation: Gay Men’s Meditation Experience. Relax and connect. Third Tues. of each month in Cranston, 7 -- 8 p.m. Tim, 944-0723. Fee applies. Mercy of God Community: Christian, inclusive religious order. If you feel called, please visit our Web site: www.mgc.org. Murray Unitarian Universalist Church, 505 N. Main St., Attleboro, MA, 02702 Rev. Sandra D. Fitz-Henry. Marriage & commitment ceremonies for all. (508) 222-0505 www.murrayuuchurch.org Newman Congregational Church, Open & Affirming. 100 Newman Ave., Rumford, RI. 4311-4742. Newport Congregational Church: UCC. Rev. Hayes & Rev. Baker. Open & Affirming. 73 Pelham St., Newport. 849-2238 or nccucc@ newportcongregationalchurch.org. Park Place Congregational Church, 71 Park Pl., Pawtucket, 726-2800. The Pub Church: A church that meets in a pub! Saturdays, 5 p.m. at The Dugout, 722 Commonwealth Ave. Boston. Open & Affirming. Email thepubchurch@gmail.com. Location may change. Pilgrim Lutheran Church, an inclusive congregation: 1817 Warwick Ave., Warwick. 739-2937 Pilgrim United Church of Christ. Open and affirming. 635 Purchase St., New Bedford. 508997-5684. Riverside Church (U.C.C.) 15 Oak Ave., Riverside, RI. 433-2039. www.rcc-ucc.com St. Augustine’s Church and Episcopal Center at URI: 35 Lower College Rd., Kingston. 7832153 www.staugustineURI.com. St. Francis City Ministry at the Church of St. Mary, 535 Broadway, Prov. Office of LGBT Outreach 353-1422

No. Prov. 353-2079. St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, 50 Orchard St. East side of Prov., 751-2141 St. Martin’s Episcopal Church: County & River Sts., New Bedford, MA. (508) 994-8972, stmartins1887@aol.com. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 50 Park Place, Pawtucket. 728-4300. www.stpaulspawtucket.org St. Paul’s Church, a Welcoming Episcopal church. 2679 E. Main St., Portsmouth. 862-1466. www.stpaulsportsmouthri.org St. Peter & St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church: 25 Pomona Ave., Prov.; 272-9649. Email.stpanda25@verizon.net. www.stpetersandstandrews.org. Saint Therese Old Catholic Church, Open & Affirming, Sunday Mass at 10:30 p.m. at 134 Mathewson St., Providence. Fr. David Martins, 263-4296. www.saintthereseocc.org Second Congregational Church of Attleboro (UCC) Open & Affirming. 50 Park Street, Attleboro, MA. Sunday worship 10 a.m. (508) 222-4677, www.attleborosecondchurch.org Seekonk Congregational Church: 600 Fall River Ave., Seekonk, MA. 02771, (508) 336-9355, Rev. Joy Utter, www.scc-ucc.com. Temple Agudas Achim: GLBT-friendly, Reconstructionist cong. Rabbi Elyse Wechterman. 901 No. Main St., Attleboro, MA. (508) 2222243 or www.agudasma.org. Temple Beth-El: GLBT-welcoming. Rabbi Sarah E. Mack. 70 Orchard Ave., Prov., RI 02906. 331-6070 Temple Emanu-El, Sessions St. & Morris Ave., Providence. A welcoming Conservative congregation. Rabbi Wayne Franklin, 331-1616. www.teprov.org Temple Habonim: a warm, Welcoming Reform congregation. Rabbi Andrew Klein, 165 New Meadow Rd., Barrington, 245-6536. www. templehabonim.org. Temple Sinai: A Welcoming Reform Temple. Rabbi Peter Stein, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston, RI. 942-8350. www.TempleSinairi.org. Unitarian Society of Fairhaven (MA): 102 Green St., Fairhaven, MA 02719; (508) 992-7081. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of So. County: 27 North Rd., Peace Dale, RI; 783-4170 or Val 789-7282. www.uusouthcountyri.org. United Church of Christ: Coalition for LGBT Concerns. 13 Steven Circle, S. Kingstown, RI 02883, Ray Bradley at 782-3871. Westminster Unitarian/Universalist Church, a UUA Welcoming Congregation. 119 Kenyon Avenue, East Greenwich, RI 02818. 8845933. LGBT weddings welcome.

St. James Church: Episcopal, 474 Fruit Hill Ave.,

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com or call John 261-9715.

Social Organizations Atheists/Agnostics: RI Atheist Society – “Working to keep Church and State separate” Welcoming all. Meets 3rd Monday of the month at an area restaurant for lively discussions among like-minded people. For info: www.RIatheist. net Bisexual Resource Center: 29 Stanhope St., Boston, (617) 424-9595 or www.biresource.net. Biversity Boston: Mixed-sex social network. Bimonthly brunches and other social events. http://biversity.org. Boston Bisexual Women’s Network: Social activities including monthly brunches, coming out groups, and quarterly newsletter “Bi Woman.” Subscribe at www.biwomenboston.org. Bears Ocean State (BOS): Informal e-group for gay & bisexual bear-identified and -affiliated men for friendly companionship. All welcome. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bearsoceanstate or bearsoceanstate-subscribe@ yahoogroups.com. Age-restricted.

Men’s Gay Camping: In RI, CT, MA. Gatherings organized for tents to RVs during Spring, Summer and Fall. www.webspawner.com/users/gaycamping/index.html or call 277-0075 or email gaycamping@gmx.com. Mixed Borders Gardening Group: Gardening and more! Monthly meetings, all welcome! For more information: www.MixedBorders.com or E-Mail Mixedborders@cox.net Opera Club: last Sunday of each month at 1:00 p.m. Enjoy hearing and attending. Email Dave at BrettCornellpi4@aol.com Pawtuxet Pride: GLBTQ folks & friends in Pawtuxet Village (Cranston and beyond). All welcome. Call Ed at 345-1264 or email EDZL@ aol.com. Providence Gay Men’s Chorus: Mon, 7-9:30 p.m., Beneficent Church, 300 Weybosset St, Prov.. New season rehearsals begin in January and August. Singers and nonsinging volunteers welcome. www.provgmc.org.

Bridgewater State College GLBT Alumni Group: email Kenneth Hayes (‘91) khayesbbc@msn. com or visit www.bridgew.edu.

Queer Book Club. Meets 3rd Wednesday 7 p.m. at Books on the Square, 471 Angell St., Providence. Email queerbookclub@gmail.com.

Cape and Islands Gay & Straight Youth Alliance (CIGYA): (508) 778-7744.

Raging Grannies: Women of “a certain age” working toward a more peaceful, equitable society with song, humor & passion. Will sing for rallies & events. Email jlglass53@aol.com.

CORISMA: Gay and lesbian couples of RI and Southeast MA. Potluck get-togethers for couples only. For info or to be added to email list write: corismainfo@comcast.net. www.corismagroup.org Defenders/Providence: Leather/Levi club, c/o PO Box 41153, Prov., RI 02940. Third Sun at 6 p.m. Fall River’s Rainbow Girls: private, moderated welcoming group for women in the Fall River Area. groups.yahoo.com/group/ Fall_River_ Rainbow_Grrls. Gay Lesbian Alliance of Newport County Etc. (GLANCE): Social and entertainment events. E-mail glance1234@hotmail.com. Gay Men’s Meditation Group, third Thursday each month, 6:30 -- 7:30 p.m. Tim, 2258149. Fee applies.

RI Association of Gay Professionals. Professional networking and philanthropy. gayprofessionalnetworkofri@gmail.com. 453-9276 RI Lesbian Social Club: social gatherings for women. heylari@yahoo.com or call 272-2962. RI Parents Pride: Gay parents socializing together with their children. Contact Melanie, 4642288 or saphicangel120@yahoo.com RI Pride: Parade & Festival, year-round events; Box 1082, Prov. RI 02901, info@PrideRI. com; www.PrideRI.com. Office at 1005 Main St. #1105, Pawtucket. 467-2130 RI Prime Timers. Social and networking group for gay and bisexual men 40 and older. Meets 2nd Sundays. www.riprimetimers.org or call Steve at 996-3010.

Imperial Court of RI at Prov: Male, female, drag king & queen performers raise funds for local charities. Meetings 1st Mon. of month, at RI Pride Office, 1005 Main St., Pawtucket. All welcome. PO Box 6583, Prov., RI 02904;www.icriprov.org.

RI Skeptics Society. Yearning to talk with someone rational? Meetings 4th Saturday at a Seekonk restaurant for refreshing discussion. http://skeptics.meetup.com/133/

Lesbian Writers Group, Rochambeau Library, Hope St., Providence. Mondays 7 -- 8:30 p.m. Writing exercises, support. No critiquing or workshopping. Free. Russian or Computer Room.

SAGE/RI (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders) Advocacy, education and social events for LGBTQ seniors. Mail address 235 Promenade St., Suite 500, Box 18, Providence RI 02908. sageriinfo@gmail.com, 528-3259. Facebook: “Sage/Rhode Island.”

Men’s Card Group: E-mail johninprov@gmail.

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RI Women’s Association: Lesbian social group; age 21+; dances/events. www.RIWA.net

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SEMASSMEN: Social group for GBQ men of S.E. Mass and RI to foster strong friendships. Semassmen-subscribe@yahoo groups.com or email moderator rlevass @yahoo.com. Trans Queer RI: friendship, fun activities, and support for transgender, queer & like-minded people. Gatherings third Sunday of each month. Email trans.queer.ri@gmail.com. T.W.I.S.T. Project: Program for gay and bisexual men in Fall River/New Bedford area. Drop-in center, referrals, condom distribution, social groups. Coffee night Thursdays 7 – 9 p.m. (508) 672-0378; www.myspace.com/twistprogram. UNISONG: For unity through song. Non-performance monthly singing session. www.unisong.net or jlglass53@aol.com WomenRIsing. Feminist Chorus. Director Nancy Rosenberg. www.womenrisingchorus.org. Email: contact@womenrisingchorus.org. Yankee Lambda Car Club: Regional club for GLBT people interested in vintage & specialty cars. www.yankeelcc.com, sisherwood@aol. com.

Sports PRIDESPORTSBOSTON: Network of twentyplus gay sports leagues/teams in Boston area: www.pridesportsboston.com 617-937-5858 Gay sports in Boston and beyond: www.gaysports. com. Email info@gaysports.com. BASKETBALL: Boston Gay Basketball League: www.bgbl.com or (617) 937-5858 Ext. 2. BOWLING: RI GALA: 6 p.m. Sun., East Prov. Lanes, Newport Ave., Bruce, 397-3803, or Bill, 828-5587 www.galabowling.com. Monday Night Women’s Bowling League, Pat 4512188. Royal Court Bowling League: 9 p.m. Wed., Woonsocket Hill Bowl; 767-2110. Big Gay Al’s Duckpin bowling league: Tuesdays 6:30 p.m., Proceeds benefit AIDS causes. Town Hall Lanes, Johnston. www.BGALBowling.com. Frank Ferri 831-6940. www. townhalllanes.com. BOWLING: BOSTON: Monday Night League, www.mnbl.net FLAG FOOTBALL: FLAG (For Lesbians and Gays) Football www.flagflagfootball.com, (617) 937-5858 Ext. 4. FOOTBALL: Women’s professional team Northeastern Nitro. Members of the Women’s Football Alliance. Practices held in Bethel, CT. Contact Amy Manfred at amymanfred@ yahoo.com or Carley Pesente at linebackergirl56@aol.com. RI/S.E. MA Flag Football: Sats. 10 a.m. All levels and genders. mbs1994ever@yahoo.com

GOLF: Golf4All www.golf4all.net (617) 4508682.

for groups. 863-3062. Email: queer@brown. edu

HOCKEY: Boston Pride Hockey www.bostonpridehockey.org (617) 937-5858 Ext. 7.

Brown University Grad Student - Med Student - Staff LGBTQ Association: queer-med-gradmembers@queer.brown.edu

ICE HOCKEY for WOMEN: Gail Wickstrom email gwick@kersur.net. KICKBOXING or BOXING for WOMEN: 272-5425. www.rondeauskickboxing.com MARTIAL ARTS: Main Street Martial Arts. Non-profit, welcoming dojo and community center. Scholarships available. 1282 No. Main St., Providence. 274-7672. www.mainstma. org. OUTDOORS: Chiltern Mountain Club, New England’s LGBT outdoor recreation club. www.chiltern.org. Email events@chiltern.org. ROWING: Boston Gy Rowers: www.glrf.org RUGBY: Boston Ironsides Rugby Football Club. www.bostonironsidesrfc.org. RUNNING: Frontrunners Rhode Island: Brian 751-7643, bripm@cox.net. Frontrunners Boston www.frontrunnersboston.org SNOWBOARDING: OutRyders, www.outryders.org or email brian@outryders.org. SOCCER: Boston Strikers Soccer Club www.bostonstrikers.com (617) 937-5858 Ext. 9. SOFTBALL: Renaissance City Softball League. New players and boosters always welcome. 226-7771-642 or rcsl_commish@cox.net. Visit www.providencesoftball.org Beantown Softball League: (617) 297-7490 www. beantownsoftball.com. Serving since 1978. SQUASH: Boston Boasts www.bostonboasts.com SWIMMING: LANES (Liquid Assets New England) www.swim-lanes.org; (617) 937-5858. For fitness and/or competition. TENNIS: TENNIS-4-All: www.tennis4all.org. VOLLEYBALL: Cambridge Boston Volleyball Assoc. www.GayVolleyball.net, (617) 6332180

Ocean State Pride Volleyball League. Adult coed indoor league following USVBA rules. No try-outs. Kent County YMCA, 900 Centerville Rd., Warwick. Fee applies. Email ospvolleyball@gmail.com.

WRESTLING: East Coast Wrestling Club www. eastcoastwrestlingclub.org, email ecwc@juno. com, (401) 467-6737 or (617) 937-5858 Ext. 6

Students & Youth Bristol Community College Gay/Straight Alliance

(BCC/GSA); Steven Camara, Advisor (508) 678-2811 Ext. 2391, BCC-H202, 777 Elsbree St., Fall River, MA 02720. Brown University Queer Alliance: umbrella org.

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Brown University Staff LGBTQ Association: call LGBT Resource Center: 863-3062 Brown University LGBTQ Resource Center: 8633062, e-mail lgbtq@brown.edu Bryant Pride: Bryant College Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual Student Association. 232-6389. CCRI Triangle Alliance: Student & staff GLBTQ group meets on Flanagan and Liston campuses. 455-6065. www.ccri.cc.ri.edu/triangle. COLAGE. Support and social activities for children of LGBT Parents: Meets third Saturday of the month, 10:30 -- 12 at Gordon School, E. Providence. Coordinator Veronica Jutras (vjutras5@gmail.com) www.colage.org/colage-chapter/colage-rhode-island-chapter/ Fitchburg State College GLBT Alliance: Social support group for students. One-in-Ten and Friends, 978-665-3164, sfranzemn@fsc.edu. Peer Listening Line/Fenway Community Health Ctr.: Boston. Youth-staffed hotline for GLBT youth; support, info and referrals. (617) 2672535 or (800)-399-PEER, 5-10 p.m. all week. Roger Williams University LGBTQ & Allies group: S.A.F.E (Sexual Advocacy for Everyone): Weekly meetings in Intercultural Center; speakers, social and awareness events; Pride Week in April. Email: saferwu03@gmail.com. Facebook: S.A.F.E. Salve Regina University Gay Straight Lesbian Bisexual Alliance (GSLBA), 100 Ochre Point Ave., Newport. Sister Johnelle, Lucianij@ salve.edu SeaQuel: Southeast Asian Queers United for Empowerment and Leadership. Bi-weekly Sunday meetings. 383-7450. myspace.com/seaQuel; Email SeaQuel@Prysm.us S.H.E.P.A.R.D. (Stopping Homophobia, Eliminating Prejudices and Restoring Dignity): Providence College, 1 Cunningham Sq., Prov., RI 02918, E-mail shepard@providence.edu. 865-1631 The Trevor Project: The only nationwide, aroundthe-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for LGBT youth. Also offers social networks. 866-4-U-TREVOR; 866-488-7386. thetrevorproject.org. The Next Thing (TNT): Political & support group for queer people of color at Brown Univ. Call Brown Queer Alliance, 863-3062. University of RI Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer & Questioning (LGBTIQ2) alumni association gsimonelli@advance.uri.edu. 874-5808.

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URI Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer Center. A cultural department for students, faculty and staff. Florence Badejo, 874-2894. web.uri.edu/gender_sexuality Youth Pride Inc./The Way Out: Support, education & advocacy for LGBTQQ young people ages 13-23.Drop-in center at 743 Westminster St., Prov. 02903; Mon.---Thurs. noon--8 p.m, Fridays 4 -- 8 p.m., Sat. 10 -- 5. The Way Out peer support group Tues., 5 p.m. Gender Spectrum support group Tues. 5:30 p.m. Ask about the 14-and-under day. Call 421-5626 or email kerri@youthpride-ri.org Web: www. youthpride-ri.org.

Support Groups & Social Services Abuse Victims and Survivors: Support on phone for LGBTQ victims & survivors of partner abuse. Confidential peer-led groups. Hotline (617) 742-4911. Network/LaRed. Email office: advocate@tnir.org Adoption Options: Non-sectarian help for LGBT and straight adoptions. Betsy Alper, Jewish Family Service, 959 No. Main St., Providence. 331-54337. Foster parents needed: Stipend, assistance, training provided by Family Resources Community Action. 766-0900, ext. 1213. Foster parents needed, for newborn to age six. www.childrensfriendri.org. 276-4318 Foster parents sought: Training, stipend, support provided for nurturing families. Gregary Wright, Family Service of RI, 331-1350 Ext. 3305 Behavioral health outpatient services in Fall River area, inclusive of LGBT: S.T.E.P. (508-)2351012; T.W.I.S.T. (508) 672-0378 Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center, offering resources for victims of domestic violence. 7233057. Catholic Parents Outreach: Always Our Children, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, Sacred Heart Convent, 395 Chestnut St., Springfield, MA. Call Ann, (413) 736-6803. COLAGE (Children of Gays): A national movement of people with one or more LGBT parents. Social activities, education & advocacy. Meets 3rd Saturday of the month. rhodeisland@colage.org. Coordinator Veronica Jutras (vjutras5@gmail.com) Compass: FTM trans info, support and social group, meets in Boston First Thursday, 7 – 9 p.m. www.compassftm.org, compassftm@ comcast.net Crossroads RI: Hotline (Travelers Aid): (800) 367-2700 Day One (Formerly Sexual Assault and Trauma Resource Center of RI): Counseling & legal aid for victims of sexual assault/abuse & in-

Dementia and Early Alzheimer’s LGBTQ support group at Calvary United Methodist Church of Middletown, 200 Turner Rd., Middletown RI 02842. 847-6181.

and New Bedford 1st Tues. of the month, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Confidential. Drug/alcohol-free. Email mantalksouthcoast@yahoo.com

people. Meetings in Providence, last Wed. of each month, location unpublished for privacy. Email partners@tginetwork.org.

Nat. Lesbian & Gay Journalists Assoc./New England: Works for fair and accurate media coverage of LGBT issues, info@nlgja.org.

TransYouth Family Allies: Support for gendervariant and transgender children ages 3-18. Info@imatyfa.org. www.imatyfa.org.

Domestic Violence Resource Center of South County: Support, court advocacy, counseling, safe home, info for women and men in abusive or controlling, LGBT or straight relationships. 24 hour free and confidential helpline. 7823990.

PFLAG: Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians & Gays: Greater Providence chapter serves all of RI and Southeastern Mass.: First Wednesdays, 6:45 p.m. at Met School, 325 Public St., Providence. 751-7571; www.pflagprovidence. org; pflagprovidence@verizon.net.

Transgender American Veterans Association (TAVA): Growing organization to address the concerns of fair treatment of transgender veterans and active duty service members. www. tavausa.org.

Female-to-Male Support Group: Transgender peer support, information, social group. For those who identify somewhere on the transmasculine spectrum. Regular meetings. Visit www.SNE_FTM@yahoo.com

RI Coalition Against Domestic Violence: Info at 467-9940; 24-hour helpline, (800) 494-8100.

cest. 24-hr hotline (800) 494-8100, collect calls accepted: 421-4100.

Gay Fathers of Greater Boston: support: E-Mail outreach@gayfathersboston.org. www.gayfathersboston.org. Gay Fathers Support Group in RI. Tom Fronczak, LICSW, 431-2953. Fee applies. GayLab for Healthy Relationships: Learning & practicing healthy ways to socialize in safe, non-judgmental environment in LGBT community. www.gaylab.org. Email info@gaylab. org. James, 781-762-6629 Gay Men’s Domestic Violence Project: support, info, shelter. (800) 832-1901, www.gmdvp. org. Gay Officers Action League /New England (GOAL NE), gay/lesbian/bisexual law enforcement officers, sworn & civilian. Fire, rescue and publicly employed EMS. P.O. Box 587, Boston, MA 02117; www.goalne.org; info@goalne.org; (617) 376-3612. Confidential. Gay Share. Coming Out? Gay men’s support group Wed., 7:30 p.m. No fee. Call Tom/ Mike, 369-9448 or www.gayshare.org; Info@ gayshare.org. Helpline for LGBT Youth: Trevor Helpline, call 24/7 for crisis and suicide prevention. Also social networks. 866-4-U-Trevor HIV+ Gay Men’s Support Group at AIDS Care Ocean State, 18 Parkis Ave., Prov., RI. 5213603. Refreshments served. New members should call Scott: 640-3108 Kathys’ Group: free support group for lesbians with cancer or any life-threatening illness. Meets monthly in Providence. Partners and caregivers welcome. Call 888-5KATHYS. Lesbian Moms of Southern NE: discussion, support and activity list for lesbian mothers. www. topica.com/lists/LMOSNE or ForADancer63@aol.com. Mantalk of S.E. Mass: Social/Discussions for gay/ bi/curious men 18+. Taunton every Thursday,

options

Women’s Resource Center of Newport and Bristol Counties, offering services to victims of domestic violence. 846-5263.

RI Rainbow Support Group for people with disabilities who identify as LGBTQ. Meets last Tuesday of each month. 98 Rolfe St., Cranston, 6 - 7:30. Ken Renaud, 785-2100. RI Relay 711. Samaritans: 24-hour hotline for suicidal, lonely, despairing, depressed. (800) 365-4044 (RI only), 272-4044; www.samaritansri.org. Sexual Health Education & Advocacy Program: HIV, sexual wellness, domestic violence risk reduction. Free, confidential, LGBTQfriendly and bilingual (Spanish). Contact Aida (amanduley@sojournerri.org) or call 8616191, ext. 121. No caller ID is used; calls are blocked for safety. Sojourner House: Support, shelter, advocacy, info for people in abusive relationships. Call us at 861-6191 We DON’T use Caller ID; calls are blocked for safety.

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Straight Spouse Support: Straight spouse professional offers peer support and referrals. Jane Harris, (413) 625-6636. Email jcmalinski48@ gmail.com. Straight Spouses Group: Visit www.StraightSpouse.org. for info on groups and online support. TGI Network of R.I.: Support, advocacy for Transgender, Transsexual, Gender-variant, Genderqueer & Intersex people. www.tginetwork.org. info@tginetwork.org.

Got an apartment to rent? Condo to sell? Looking for a housemate?

Transgender Support Group: Cape Cod (508) 362-4435 Trans Family New England. Gives parents/family members of transgender people a safe place to explore impact of gender identity of their loved ones, and to connect with other families. Meets in Providence 2nd Tues. each month. Location unpublished for privacy. Email Partners@tginetwork.org. Trans Partners New England: Gives romantic partners of transgender people a confidential, safe space to explore the impact of a loved one’s gender identity on their relationships, and to connect with other loved ones of transgender

feburary

2014

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