options
LGBT News, Resources, & Events March 2014
Dragstravaganza pg. 10
Rhode Island’s LGBTQ News Source Since 1982 - FREE
Congratulations on Marriage Equality RI!!
Susan T. Perkins
Attorney at Law
CALL 401.PERKINS 462 Broadway, Providence, RI 02909 Office: (401) 273.9092 | Cell: (401) 575.7426 | Fax: (401) 331.1898 susan@susantperkins.com www.susantperkins.com Practicing in Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut
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options
In This Issue:
LGBTQ News, Resources & Events
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Our Letters
16 Onward, Kim Stowell
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Your Letters
5
LGBTQ Tax Tips
6
News Briefs
19 AIDS Care Ocean State
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Rodney Davis Passes Pride Torch
20 RI Pride
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Calendar
18 Lesbians on the Loose
21 SAGE/RI 22 AIDS Project RI
10 Dragstravaganza
23 Youth Pride, Inc.
12 Ocean State Pride Volleyball League 24 TGI Network 14 Anctil Flashdances 26 Resources at PPAC Subscriptions are free! Sign up online or send your name & mailing address to info@optionsri.org. Retractions February 2014: The RI Women’s Association article was written by Lorraine Nye. The issue should have been listed as Vol. XXXII, Issue 8.
Connect with us online! Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Issuu
Options | March 2014
Rhode Island’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer community news source since 1982 MARCH 2014 Vol. XXXII, Issue 9
Publisher Kyle McKendall kyle@optionsri.org Editor in Chief Jen Stevens editor@optionsri.org Calendar Editor Lise Schwartz info@optionsri.org Production Chris Cedroni chris@optionsri.org Copy Editors Chris Cedroni, Steve Kagan, Kyle McKendall, Joseph Morra, Kelly Scafariello, Myra Shays, Nathaniel Zane Writers Tom Bertrand, Joanne Bussiere, K.C., Chris Cedroni, Christopher Dalpe, Bradford Greer, Sally Ann Hay, Kerri Kanelos, Annie CroninSilva, Melanie Silva, Jen Stevens, Kim Stowell Advertising Director Traci Allen advertising@optionsri.org Finance Director Donny McKendall billing@optionsri.org Distribution Nathaniel Zane distribution@optionsri.org Subscriptions Frank Galligan Frank@optionsri.org General Information info@optionsri.org
PO Box 6406 Providence, RI 02940 (401) 724-LGBT
www.optionsri.org © OPTIONS 2014. Options is published twelve 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 include a phone number or email address but names may be withheld on request. Submissions, ads, calendar or resource listings for the April issue must be delivered by March 17.
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Letter from the Editor
Letter from the Publisher
Dear Readers, As I settle into my new role at Options, 17 nations and 17 U.S. states have same-sex equal marriage and across the country courts are overturning equal marriage bans. Attorney General Holder sees no difference between same-sex unions and heterosexual unions where the law is concerned. Hate speech, whether from a Duck Dynasty reality-show personality, a Barilla Pasta CEO, or the Russian head-of-state, is being met with boycotts and protests and inspiring activism. Tolerance is the standard and acceptance is on the rise as celebrities and high-profile professionals come out of the closet, or simply live openly. We know more needs to change and being visible may be the best way to facilitate that – hence our much-considered decision to shed the “discreet white envelope” that customarily shrouds each home-delivered Options issue. For those not welcoming the change, your privacy and the magazine’s accessibility is important to us. We would love to hear from you.We’re ready to step out of the envelope, and hope readers agree the time has come. This issue features a story that brings drag queens, living statues, and a chorus together in a Dragstravaganza to benefit YPI and the awaited LGBT Community Center. RI Pride announces long-time leader Rodney Davis has stepped back from his role as President. You’ll see Flashdance The Musical through the eyes of the production’s gay dance captain. Kim Stowell, my predecessor, authors our volleyball story and is also interviewed. Kim has championed Options since 2007 and is an ideal steward through this transition. She’s cultivated an incredibly talented team; I’m enjoying and learning from each of them. Kyle McKendall has been Kim’s right hand, organizing the administrative aspects of Options. As Publisher, he aims to increase readership, improve the magazine’s design, and recruit top-notch team members. Best of all, he’s proving to have the energy and commitment to see his vision through. There’s room for more on this team, and I invite you to contribute. Options is here to help you engage with our community. The people and organizations making it thrive will continue to grace these pages. We’ll invite you to interesting events, and we’ll note landmark news stories for posterity. We’ll explore the diversity among us while discussing best practices for inclusivity. These days, you find news everywhere you turn. Together we’ll record our shared history and tell our stories here. In solidarity, Jen Stevens
Dear Readers, When asked about Options, many remember the first issue they read and almost everyone has a story that goes beyond being a reader. Some reminisce their service as a volunteer and the relationships that formed at meetings, fundraisers or parties. Others relate the publication to a vulnerable time in their life and see it as a beacon of hope for the community. The Options family has been growing and evolving since 1982, and the stories that readers carry are the threads that hold us together. Over the past three years I’ve learned a lot about our organization, its rich history and the dedicated leaders who’ve kept it evolving. We owe so much to Kim Stowell for her perseverance and commitment to Options. I’m honored to take a lead role in the Options family and excited to guide our organization’s direction. Our team is stronger than ever. I’m thrilled to work alongside Jen Stevens, our new editor. Jen’s energy, work ethic and vision is contagious. Traci Allen, advertising director, is working tirelessly to ensure win-win relationships with our advertisers. Donny McKendall is securing our healthy financial trajectory, and each month Chris Cedroni transforms our content into a beautiful magazine for our readers. We’re welcoming new members to the Options team! Brian Gay will strengthen and grow our online presence as web editor, and Frank Galligan will manage our subscription list. Neither are new to the group, having written, edited and volunteered numerous times, and both are eager to assume a larger role. This issue is the last we plan to mail in our signature white envelope. The decision comes after many discussions within our team and with readers, and is not taken lightly.While it’s a strategic financial move, it speaks loudly to the growing acceptance of the LGBTQ community. Mailing out of the envelope to thousands of readers will have a greater, positive impact then we can foresee. Options is distributed at over 100 locations and published in its entirety on our website. Both give readers the opportunity to engage with us in an anonymous setting. This conversation is an open one:Your dialogue is encouraged. We have so much in store for you in the issues ahead. Our subscription list will grow, our content will be engaging, and new advertisers who support our community will flood our pages.The entire Options team thanks you for your support and is excited to have you with us as we start a new chapter. Onward, Kyle McKendall
We’re coming out of the envelope! This is the last issue we plan on mailing in our signature white envelope. Email our subscription manager, Frank, for more information: frank@optionsri.org 4
Options | March 2014
Your Letters
LBGTQ Tax Tips
Living Under the Gay Umbrella
It’s tax season and same-sex newlyweds, for the first time, have a marital status recognized by the federal government. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions, according to IRS.gov: • For federal tax purposes, the IRS has a general rule recognizing a marriage of same-sex spouses that was validly entered into in a domestic or foreign jurisdiction whose laws authorize the marriage of two individuals of the same-gender even if the married couple resides in a domestic or foreign jurisdiction that does not recognize the validity of same-sex marriage. • For tax year 2013 and going forward, same-sex spouses generally must file using a married filing separately or jointly filing status. • A taxpayer’s spouse cannot be a dependent of the taxpayer. • A taxpayer who is married cannot file using head of household filing. (See Publication 501 for more details.) • If a child is a qualifying child under section 152(c) of both parents who are spouses (who file using the married filing separate status), either parent, but not both, may claim a dependency deduction for the qualifying child. • If a taxpayer’s spouse itemized his or her deductions, the taxpayer cannot claim the standard deduction. • A taxpayer may not claim an adoption credit for expenses incurred in adopting the child of the taxpayer’s spouse. We hope this summary helps, taxpayers! If you’re unclear on how to file your taxes please consult a professional or visit www.irs.gov.
What would you say is the adjective we most utilize as the LGBTQ community to describe ourselves? I’ll tell you—it’s “gay”. As words go, it’s a nice one, and great to use while trying to fundraise or gain votes. For marketing purposes it’s succinct and sellable. Despite all of its virtues, there is one tiny intrinsic problem with using the word gay to describe us—many of us aren’t gay. In the eleven years since I came out of the closet as bisexual, I have heard a majority of people talk about the “gay community,” “gay marriage” and “gay rights.” I have even used those words myself to talk about our initiatives, and while I have tried to actively participate in the community, it is due in part to those words that I have never really felt that I belonged. As much as I tell myself that it isn’t true, I still feel like an outsider working towards another person’s freedoms. The problem with using the word “gay” as an enveloping term is that it already has a set definition (i.e., an individual that is only attracted to those of the same sex). Due to this, making it an umbrella word pluralizes it. Instead of thinking of the gay community as a wonderfully diverse LGBTQ group, the terminology suggests that everyone who isn’t a homosexual doesn’t exist or matter. Since language can inform behavior, this mindset could be and has been used to make those of us that fall into the BTQ part of that acronym feel lesser than our homosexual counterparts. In addition, it has made us almost completely invisible to the heterosexual majority. How do we improve this? That’s easy: We find a term that fits for all of us. One that presents us as a united front that is affected by unjust laws and works together to move forward. In my day-to-day life I use the word “queer.” Some have told me that this is a controversial choice because it can be used as a slur, but it is already an accepted term in our language. I know LGBTQ is popular in written medium, but when talking it can be burdensome. “Same-sex marriage” is growing in popularity as an inclusive term, but “queer marriage” includes both those in same-sex unions as well as those transgendered individuals who are unable to marry. Now, don’t get me wrong, it isn’t inappropriate to use the terms “gay marriage”, “gay rights” or “gay community”, but it is a matter of context. If you use those words while specifically referring to the gay subculture, then they are perfectly suitable. It is only when we start to generalize that prejudices begin to spring up between us, and we start leaving people behind. Considering why our community currently exists, I doubt that any of us want to be found guilty of alienating others for being different. Overall, I guess the major question we have to ask ourselves is what umbrella we’d like to live under. We can live under an umbrella that represents our entire community, making those that do not make up the majority feel safe and welcome. Conversely, we could live under an umbrella where the majority in our community refuses to recognize the minorities, creating strife and segregation. I’m personally for the former. What about you? What would you choose? —Jen Hug
Options Release Party! Sunday, March 30, 3-6pm
The Stable Please join us and help get Options OUT to all our distribution points around the state. The Stable • 125 Washington Street, Providence
Options | March 2014
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News Briefs
Virginia’s ban on marriage for lesbian and gay couples was ruled unconstitutional by U.S. District Judge Arenda Wright Allen in the case Bostic v. McDonnell brought by the American Foundation for Equal Rights (AFER). The Virginia ruling follows a Supreme Court ruling in New Mexico and federal district court rulings in Utah, Oklahoma, Ohio and Kentucky, finding these state’s bans on equal marriage violate the constitutional principle of equal protection and that the these states cannot refuse to recognize valid same-sex marriages conducted in other states. Activists are hopeful this string of rulings will put marriage equality on the fasttrack to the U.S. Supreme Court.
At a dinner held by HRC in New York, Attorney General Eric Holder announced that the federal government will treat married lesbian and gay couples the same as heterosexual couples when they do things like file for bankruptcy, testify in court, file their taxes or visit family in prison, saying “In every courthouse, in every proceeding and in every place where a member of the Department of Justice stands on behalf of the United States, they will strive to ensure that same-sex marriages receive the same privileges, protections and rights as opposite-sex marriages.”
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in history to come out as gay. Sam, who was named the 2013 SEC Defensive Player of the Year is expected to be a top pick in this year’s NFL Draft. Reactions from within the league were mixed. New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick prepared the following statement: “We evaluate all the players, including Michael Sam, based on the totality of who they are and who can best contribute to our team and organization, regardless of the matters being discussed today.”
Facebook users are now able to choose from over 50 different terms for their gender. The new options include identifications such as androgynous, bigender, transsexual, genderfluid, male-to-female and female-to-male, among others. Users also have their choices of pronoun - him, her or them. Facebook allows users to share their gender identity or set it as private and also to control the audiences with whom they share their gender identity.
LGBT activists successfully hijacked McDonald’s social media hashtag #CheersToSochi. While originally created by McDonald’s to connect Twitter users to athletes, #CheersToSochi quickly became a grassroots uprising of human rights supporters expressing their frustration and objections to Sochi 2014 sponsors over their silence on LGBT and human rights abuses in Russia.
Michael Sam made history by becoming the first Division I college football player
Scotland became the 17th country to legalize gay marriage when it’s Parliament voted 105-18 to pass The Marriage and Civil Partnership Bill. Neither the Church of Scotland nor the Scotish Catholic Church supported the bill though it includes protections for religious groups so they cannot be forced to officiate same-sex weddings. Scotland’s first same-sex marriages could happen this year.
Former American Idol runner-up Clay Aiken launched a bid for Congress running as a Democrat in a conservative North Carolina district. Aiken announced he was gay in 2008 and went on to speak out about North Carolina’s proposed constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage. He’ll have to defeat multiple challengers in the Democratic primary before facing conservative incumbent Renee Ellmers.
Options | March 2014
Rodney Davis Passes Pride Torch to Kurt Bagley Pride Press Release
Pictured: Kurt Bagley (left), Rodney Davis (right)
“There is so much remaining to accomplish, and I hope to collaborate with other outstanding organizations such as Youth Pride, Options and AIDS Care Ocean State, as well with the newly formed RILGBT Center, so that we can all share our energy and resources and maximize our collective potential to the benefit of our whole community.” -Kurt Bagley At its Annual Meeting and Election on November 20th, 2013, Rhode Island Pride members and volunteers approved an election slate that saw the organization change leadership. Rodney Davis, who had served in leadership since 1997, chose not to seek re-election. Stepping up to the task was longtime volunteer Kurt Bagley. Rhode Island Pride’s board election process is conducted by requesting advance nominations from the membership for consideration by the then-current board, which then proposes a slate for approval of each individual in a yes or no vote by the members. The 2013 election slate included Kurt Bagley for President, Emily Douglas for Vice President, Jennifer Stevens for Secretary and William Tregaskis, Scot Vieira and Anthony DeRose for Director. All were voted into office, joining Gwendolyn Howard, James Todd and Treasurer Rick Collier,
Options | March 2014
who continue their present terms. Other outgoing board members who chose to step down include Vice President Kate Monteiro, and Directors Brian Mills and Maureen Deloreto. Rhode Island Pride is grateful to the outgoing Board members for their many years of dedicated service and inspirational leadership. At its first regular meeting, the new Board appointed Rodney Davis and Maureen Deloreto as Honorary Directors, joining William Zelazny who was honored with the appointment in 2012. “Stepping back from my role as President of Rhode Island Pride, having served as a volunteer since 1991, comes with a great sense of accomplishment. I am humbled that I have been able to have a small part in making Rhode Island, my home, a better and more equitable place for
all. However, I am still going to be working hard for the community that I am a part of and love with all of my heart.” – Rodney Davis Kurt Bagley is no stranger to the organization, having joined as a member in 2003 and being elected to the Board in 2006. By 2007, he was serving as Vice President and Treasurer, eventually opting to step down to just Treasurer from 2010 through 2012. He chose to rotate off the board for 2013 in order to reassess his involvement with the organization, but continued to act as the organization’s bookkeeper. Kurt’s involvement has included management of PrideFest logistics since 2008, layout design of the PrideFest for its locations at Burnside Park, Station Park and South Water Street, and coordination of the Illuminated Night Parade from 2007-2010.
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Calendar of Events Sat. 1 Becky Chace Band, 7:30pm Sandywoods Center for the Arts, 43 Muse Way, Tiverton. For tickets see www. sandywoodsmusic.com or call 2417349.
Sat. 15 Youth Pride Inc.’s Gay/Straight Alliance (GSA) Leadership Conference. Classical High School, 770 Westminster Street, Providence. The conference is open to all youth ages 13-23, especially those who are members of their school’s GSA. Check www. youthprideri.org for times and schedule of presenters.
Sat. 1 Comedian Poppy Champlin, 7pm doors, Charlie O’s Tavern, Point Judith, Narragansett, 2 Sand Hill Cove, Galilee. $10. 782-2002.
Sat. 15 Jennifer Minuto, 9pm, DeVille’s Café, 345 South Water Street, Providence. 18+. No cover. Doors open at 4pm, Great food and beverages.
Sat. 1 Heather Rose in Clover, 9pm DeVille’s Café, 345 South Main Street, Providence. 18+. No cover. Doors open at 4pm Great food and beverages.
Sat. 15 Triple Crown Step-down, 7-10pm Mirabar, 35 Richmond Street, Providence. 18+. $10. Bid farewell to Mr. Gay RI, Ms. Lesbian RI, and Ms. Gay RI 2013. Proceeds benefit RI Pride.
March 2014
Sun. 2 RI Pride’s 15th Annual Goddess Show: A Celebration of Women in the Arts, 1-6pm Chan’s, 267 Main Street,Woonsocket. Hosted by Poppy Champlin and featuring Rachael Sage.Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door. Table reservations and advanced tickets are available at www.brownpapertickets. com/event/565438. For more information, and to volunteer to help, e-mail jennifer.stevens@prideri.com. Sun. 2 Imperial Court of RI’s Murder Mystery Dinner at the Hotel Providence Ballroom, 139 Mathewson Street, Providence. Proceeds will benefit the ICRI Scholarship Fund. Prices, times are still to be determined. Sun. 2 Sweet Honey in the Rock: Forty and Fierce! 5pm Boston Symphony Hall, 301 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA. Tickets $30-70. Tickets may be purchased at www.celebrityseries.org. Mon. 3-13 HealthSourceRI offering information/registration sessions at locations around RI for LGBTQs needing health insurance. For locations and times visit www.healthsourceri.com/ blog-2/event-listings/ or call 1-855840-HSRI (4774). Sat. 8 An Evening with Chelsy Lau, 9pm DeVille’s Café, 345 South Water Street, Providence. 18+. No cover. Doors open at 4pm. Great food and beverages. Sun. 9 RI Prime Timers, 4:30-7pm Social and network for gay and bisexual men 40+. Social, dinner, and meeting. See www.riprimetimers.org or call Steve at 996-3010 for more information.
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Mon. 17 Judy Shepard speaks to law enforcement at the RI Commission on Prejudice & Bias, in Cooperation with Roger Williams University School of Justice Studies, 9am-1pm Baypoint Inn and Conference Center, 144 Anthony Road, Portsmouth. Representatives from all RI and Southeastern MA are invited to attend. No fee. RSVP by March 1 to jlglass53@aol.com. Mon. 17 Reception in honor of Judy Shepard, 5:30-7pm Youth Pride Inc., 743 Westminster Street, Providence. Meet and talk with Judy, enjoy some appetizers, and hear a performance by the RI Feminist Chorus. This event is cosponsored by CABINS, The RI Commission on Prejudice and Bias, AIDS Project RI, The Institute for the Study & Practice of Nonviolence, RI Pride, and Youth Pride Inc. The suggested donation is $10. Wed. 19 Queer Book Club, 7pm Books on the Square, 471 Angell Street, Providence. ParrotFish, by Ellen Wittlinger. Discount if book is purchased at Books on the Square. For book selection and further information, e-mail queerbookclub@gmail.com. Thu. 20 Saint Patrick’s Day Gay Bingo, 7pm Riviera Bingo Palace, 1612 Elmwood Avenue, Cranston. Doors open at 6pm, $20 to play. Bingo benefits ACOS and APRI. Wear’n of the green and the luck o’ the Irish! Fri. 21 Celebration honoring Rodney Davis, outgoing President of RI Pride, 7:30pm Providence Biltmore. A formal event featuring guest speeches, a photo ar-
chive, memories and proclamations honoring Rodney and partner Brian Mills’ longtime service to the Pride organization. $20 in advance at www. prideri.com/$30 at the door. Sat. 22 The Pride Alliance at J&W University present their 3rd Annual Drag Show, 7-9pm Tickets are $5 for nonstudents. Proceeds benefit The Pride Alliance and RI Pride. For more information, e-mail MKF775@wildcats.jwu. edu. Sat. 22–23 Annual GLBT Expo, Jacob K. Javits Convention Center 38th & 11th Avenues, New York, NY. $12 advanced/$17 at the door. www.originalglbtexpo.com. Wed. 26 RI Pride, general social gathering and discussion of community events and opportunities for involvement, 7pm, 1005 Main St. #1105, Pawtucket. www.prideri.com. Fri. 28 Marilyn Coppola & Coppola-Turner Overdrive, 9pm DeVille’s Café, 345 South Water Street, Providence. 18+. No cover. Doors open at 4pm Great food and beverages. Sun. 30 Options Release Party, 3-6pm The Stable, 125 Washington Street, Providence.
April 2014 Thu. 3 Chris Pureka, 8pm Luna’s Ladies Night @ The Fatt Squirrel, 150 Chestnut Street, Providence. 18+. $12 in advance/$14 at the door. For tickets see www.lunaspvd.com. Fri. 4-6 Transcending Boundaries Confrence, Hartford Sheraton at the Bradley Airport, Windsor Locks, CT. The annual conference brings together sexuality, relationship and gender minorities for three days of education, activism and community building. For more info www.transcendingboundaries.org. Sat. 5 AIDS Care Ocean State presents Swing Into Spring, 6:30pm-midnight. Roger Williams Park Casino, 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence. A 1930s-40s throwback event that will include traditional swing dancing with a contemporary spin. Live music by Superchief Trio, hors d’oeuvres, light dinner fare, and delicious cocktails served all evening. In addition, ACOS 2013 Philanthropists of the Year will
Options | March 2014
Have a listing you want us to include? Email us at calendar@optionsri.org! be honored: Carol Mann and Thomas Wright. Tickets are $75. For information and to purchase tickets or be a sponsor, see www.aidscareos.org. Sun. 6 RI Pride Triple Crown Pageant. The Colosseum Mythology Room, 180 Pine Street, Providence. Cheer on your favorite contestants for Mr. Gay RI, Ms. Lesbian RI, and Ms. Gay RI 2014. 18+. Tickets are $15 in advance with VIP booths available at www.prideri.com. Fri. 11 The Vagina Monologues to benefit Sojourner House. Doors Open at 6:30pm. Show at 7:00pm.The Spot Underground, 101 Richmond Street, Second Floor. Special pricing available for students and groups. Email kbergin@ sojournerri.org for more details. Sat. 12 An Evening with Chelsy Lau, 9pm DeVille’s Café, 345 South Water Street, Providence. 18+. No cover. Doors open at 4pm. Great food and beverages. Sun. 13 RI Prime Timers, 4:30-7pm Social and network for gay and bisexual men 40+. Social, dinner, and meeting. See www.riprimetimers.org or call Steve at 996-3010 for more information. Sun. 13 Kathy Griffin, 7pm The Vets, One Avenue of the Arts, Providence. Tickets are $59.50 and $49.50, and may be purchased at www.vmari.com. Wed. 16 Queer Book Club, 7pm Books on the Square, 471 Angell Street, Providence. Pregnant Butch: Nine Long Months Spent in Drag, by A.K. Summers. Discount if book is purchased at Books on the Square. For book selection and further information, e-mail queerbookclub@gmail.com.
Options | March 2014
Thu. 17 Easter Bonnet Gay Bingo, 7pm Riviera Bingo Palace, 1612 Elmwood Avenue, Cranston. Doors open at 6pm $20 to play. Bingo benefits ACOS and APRI. Wear your favorite Easter bonnet!
of RI ACLU. Dr. Michelle Forcier of RI Adolescent Clinic, Richard Holcomb of Project Weber, and GoLocal Prov. Hors d’oeurvres and cash bar. $25 tickets may be purchased at www. fundcp.org, or at the door.
Fri. 18 Marilyn Coppola & Coppola-Turner Overdrive, 9pm DeVille’s Café, 345 South Water Street, Providence. 18+. No cover. Doors open at 4pm Great food and beverages.
Fri. 25 Imperial Court of RI’s Out-of-TownShow at the Dark Lady, 24 Snow Street, Providence. Doors open at 9pm, Show starts at 10pm $10.
Sat. 19 Jennifer Minuto, 9pm DeVille’s Café, 345 South Water Street, Providence. 18+. No cover. Doors open at 4pm. Great food and beverages. Wed. 23 RI Pride, general social gathering and discussion of community events and opportunities for involvement, 7pm, 1005 Main St. #1105, Pawtucket. www.prideri.com. Thu. 24 APRI’s Dining Out For Life at area restaurants. For more information please contact Amy Stein at amy@aidsprojectri.org, or see the APRI website for participating restaurants. APRI is looking for volunteers to promote this event on social media. Restaurants or social media volunteers should contact Amy Stein at 559-7896. Thu. 24 Imperial Court of RI’s In-Town Cocktail Party & Awards, 8-10pm The Stable, 125 Washington Street, Providence. No performances, casual attire, no charge. Thu. 24 The Fund for Community Progress Annual Awards Ceremony, 6-8pm Pearl Lounge, 393 Charles Street, Providence. Honorees: Steven Brown
Sat. 26 Imperial Court of RI Coronation XXII: The Seven Deadly Sins – A Night in the Underworld. The Providence Biltmore Hotel Garden Room, 11 Dorrance Street, Providence. Voting for the next Emperor and Empress will be held from 6-9pm Valid ID and photo required. Cocktails at 6pm, Dinner at 7pm and show at 8pm Tickets are $80, and can be purchased at icricoronationxxii.eventbrite.com. Sun. 27 ICRI Victory Brunch, 10:30 am. Providence Biltmore Hotel Garden Room, 11 Dorrance Street, Providence. $35
Regularly Scheduled Support Groups: ACOS/Youth–Tuesday ACOS/Gay males–Wednesday COLAGE–Third Saturday PFLAG–First Wednesday TGI Network-First & third Tuesday TransFamily New England–Second Monday Youth Pride, Inc./Way Out– Tuesday See Resources on page 26 section for more information.
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Dragstravaganza Bradford Greer, Photos by Greg Mulvaney If you were thinking “the higher the hair, the closer to God” you were watching one glamorous entrance after another. If your head was turning you were watching the attractive waiters circulate tasty hors d’oeuvres around stations of luscious looking-layers of fruit, cheeses, fresh vegetables and dips. If you were sipping your smart beverage of the evening and listening to cocktail music whimsically provided by Kim Kuda and some members of The Providence Gay Men’s Chorus in front of a charming fire, then you were hobnobbing at the cocktail reception at Dragstravaganza 2014! “You want to do what?” was the response John L. McElroy II received when he suggested to the Pathfinders Foundation that their very first event be a drag fashion show benefitting Youth Pride, Inc. and the future LGBTQ Center. YPI has hosted more
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than 350 workshops, distributed over 42,000 pounds of food, and has provided emotional sustenance, support and empowerment to over 750 LGBTQ youth within our community. The Rhode Island LGBTQ Center is working to create a safe place where members of our community can find resources and support. Organizations within our community will meet, have events, plan and organize around common goals. After listening to some of McElroy’s over-the-top ideas, Pathfinders members were clearly impressed enough to take a chance. Mr. McElroy did not disappoint. Six months later, Dragstravaganza premiered, starring international drag star and activist Jujubee and a parade of some of Rhode Island’s glamorous drag queens strutting through the crowd modeling their own fashions. He courageously put together a show with an impressive list of sponsors, and donated auction items that had the crowd buzzing and bidding.
Options | March 2014
The runway and very creative set designs and atmosphere were This sensation was followed by the Silent Auction results, and inspired by Mr. McElroy and came from local sources including the live auction and you can bet that Kitty Litter and Jacqueline Alan Sorentino and Anthony Merolli, turning Generations Health DiMera proved once again why they are champions at fundraisCenter in Smithfield into a winter ice palace. ing. They inserted themselves into the bidding of “If the TEN31 Producdinner for ten donated by sponsors Blackies’s Mistress of Ceremonies Kitty Litter took the stage in an elegant silver evening gown to tions’ silver-painted living Bulldog Tavern of Smithfield who donated the food for the entire event. This jacked up the ofget the well-heeled crowd laughing. After the statuettes gliding through fer by several hundred dollars. The auction was usual introductions, speeches and expressions of gratitude, Kitty introduced The Providence the crowd didn’t tip you followed by dancing and a wonderfully unusual tasty winter-inspired dessert bar donated by Gay Men’s Chorus who pumped up some over the top, the ladies and Petit Bon. noise with “It’s Raining Men.” prancing down the runway According to the Pathfinders Foundation’s misJujubee, with her charisma and vitality, was the perfect entertainer to open a fashion show in glorious winter fantasy- sion statement, they are a non-profit organization purpose is to “assist and benefit Rhode that celebrated drag, and fashion House of wear and jewelry did.” whose Island’s underserved populations as well as proCache specifically designed jewelry to fit the mote social consciousness through education theme. If the TEN31 Productions’ silver-painted living statuettes gliding through the crowd didn’t tip you over and philanthropy.” Dragstravaganza 2014 is their first fundraiser, the top, the ladies prancing down the runway in glorious winter and if co-founders Rocco and Susan Gesualdi have their way, it may become an annual event. Look for it. Be there or be square. fantasywear and jewelry did.
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PORTRAITS
The Ocean State Pride Volleyball League and the YMCA - What a Team! Kim Stowell It began in 2000 as an alternative to the bar scene. Michael Fournier of Cranston had played volleyball in college and was looking for a way to connect with friends in a different way. He teamed up with Darrin Kahn, whom you may remember from Reflections Café, and together they approached Bob Thibault about using the outdoor sand court at The Loft in Smithfield on a weeknight for a gay volleyball league.
JDHSPHOTOS.COM 401.624.6698 JDHSPhotos@verizon.net
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Because of the location, the league grew quickly, and many of the folks who were already playing at The Loft joined. The enthusiasm for the idea necessitated a move to an indoor venue, which gave Fournier, who worked for the YMCA of Greater Providence, the idea of approaching one of the Y branches to host the league. The Newman Y, located in Seekonk, agreed to let them use their gymnasium on Sundays; the branch would be closed, but Fournier and Newman staffer Josie Dutil could open and close for the league. It was about this same time that the Greater Providence Y Association was beginning to have conversations around inclusivity. Marriage equality was being discussed in the media, and questions came up for the Y around same-sex couples and membership – if a man and woman could join as a couple, why not a same-sex pair? The policies did not support this, but the staff did. By 2004, the league had 100 players. They soon moved to the Kent County Y in Warwick, which offers two volleyball courts.The play was competitive but friendly, and teams were formed with players of mixed abilities to ensure fairness. A solid foundation of leadership, policies and rules of play had been established, and many friendships were formed as a result of playing in the league. Meanwhile, the Greater Providence Y was creating a Diversity and Inclusion plan, becoming something of a pioneer in the national organization. “When the United Way announced their intention to discontinue funding the Boy Scouts,” said Fournier, “our Providence leadership really took it to heart, and it is to their credit that they took a stand, making our Y a forerunner.” Today, the YMCA of the USA has caught up. Their diversity and inclusion statement reads in part: “Together we work to ensure everyone, regardless of gender, income, faith, sexual orientation or cultural background has the opportunity to live life to its fullest.” Beyond that, the national organization actively seeks diversity in staff, suppliers and vendors, as well as offering training focused on cultural competency. There is a national GLBT Resource Network, with a mission to work “so all GLBT individuals are safe, welcomed and valued” at YMCA branches around the country. The Greater Providence Y still stands out, however, having been one of only a handful of YMCA groups in the country that has marched in a Pride Parade. Also, open discussions are ongoing, with current talks focusing on ways to welcome and accommodate the trans community.
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Options | March 2014
The Ocean State Pride Volleyball League is still going strong. With teams called Some Spike It Hot and I Know What You Did Last Match, the group is committed to supporting new players and encourages anyone who likes playing volleyball to check them out. They play Sunday afternoons during the winter months, and are planning a spring season too. For more information or to join the league, find the Ocean State Pride Volleyball League on Facebook, email them at ospvolleyball@gmail.com or visit ymcagreaterprovidence.org. They are listed under the Kent County branch in their program guide. The spring session begins March 30.
Options | March 2014
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Matt Anctil comes to Providence with Flashdance The Musical Joanne Bussiere
ensemble joked that it was cold at 50 degrees. Matt is no stranger to the stormy weather we’ve been facing, as he is originally from Southbridge, Massachusetts. The tour will take him through Peoria, Madison and Milwaukee before landing back in his home state and then Providence. When asked if he had anything to say to Providence he replied, “Get ready! If you remember the movie or songs, you may think you have an idea of what this musical will be - from the first chord, a teaser of ‘What a Feeling’ - if you’re in the audience be prepared to take off like a rocket ship!”
Take your passion And make it happen…
First when there’s nothing But a slow, glowing dream… Flashdance, the iconic 80s movie, has become Flashdance The Musical. After just over a year of touring, it will land in Providence at the Providence Performance Arts Center from March 25 - 30. I had the pleasure of chatting with a past Gay Life NYC Broadway Hero of the Month and Dance Captain/Swing, Matt Anctil, on one of our recent snow days. When I caught up with Matt he was in sunny Sacramento. The tour had just been in Las Vegas where the
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Matt began training at age five. He and his family figured out a way to have him attend Burncoat Senior High School in Worcester, Massachusetts. This was quite a change for him after attending a small Catholic school. Best known for its fine arts program, Burncoat provides students the opportunity to develop the techniques and skills that allow for a solid foundation in their chosen field of art. It was here where Director Joan Sheary’s tough motivational guidance and training changed his life. She encouraged him to seek more training in Boston. He would leave his final class of the day early so he could catch a train to Boston Youth Moves, a non-profit pre-professional dance training program for teens in the greater Boston area. Boston Youth Moves is “an extremely valuable program that needs the support to continue nurturing young artists with their incredible training and priceless opportunities,” said Matt. “My craft was really taken to the next level with this program, and I am forever grateful for their constant support.” There he would train as late as 11:30 each night. His mother would pick him up for the ninety-minute drive back to Stonebridge, and it was then by the light in the car that he managed to get his homework done. His passion for his art drove him forward in those years. He was able to take advantage of the fact that “people invested” in him. Boston Youth Moves Directors Jim Viera and Jeannette Neill both further encouraged and pushed him.They presented him with incredible exposure. He was able to craft styles with the network of which he became a part in both Boston and New York. He was introduced to classic jazz dance, inspired by the father of theatrical jazz dance, Jack Cole. When asked about his big break, Matt replied,“I had my Broadway
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Options | March 2014
debut in 2010 playing Angelique in the Tony Award-winning revival of La Cage aux Folles starring Kelsey Grammer and Douglas Hodge.” Matt joined the Flashdance company on New Years Eve 2013. He kept his eyes open and watched every show. He was the new kid on the block for all of four days. As Swing he needed to learn all of the parts and be prepared to take over a part should another performer call in sick. One Sunday in Las Vegas he seamlessly flowed among three parts. As Dance Captain he works at making sure the standard and intention of the choreographer is maintained. He acts as a support system, an extra set of eyes for the dancers. This energized ensemble presents an 80s pop rock concert featuring five original songs the movie including “Maniac,” “Gloria, “ “What a Feeling” and an additional sixteen songs. While traveling with this tour, Matt is appreciating how this production affects people in different parts of the country. Because this show has such iconic pieces of music, the audience is moved almost immediately. Then, with the additional songs, Matt finds it exhilarating to see just how much further this musical journey takes them. He was a boy with a dream and every time he steps on stage he honors the support system that encouraged him to believe in himself. Since graduating from high school in 2005 he’s performed in Broadway tours La Cage aux Folles, Radio City Christmas Spectacular (National/Arena), Broadway Bares 18-23, and The Doors Project (APAP). The Providence Performing Arts Center presents Flashdance The Musical March 25 – 30. Tickets are $44 - $70 and can be purchased at the box office, by phone at 421-2787 or online at www.ppacri.org.
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Options | March 2014
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Onward! Chris Cedroni
Kim Stowell, the managing director for Options since 2006, recently announced that she will be stepping down from the organization. Yes, change is good, and one of Kim’s successes was bringing in a bumper crop of new, young and eager hands. But now that we are in our first cycle without Kim at the helm, it seems like a good time to pause and reflect on where she’s taken us. In her tenure at Options, she’s been more than a manager, more than a diplomat, more than a writer and more than a teacher. She is also my friend, and through a combination of all of the above, she pushed me, and all of Options, to go a bit farther. And she made it look easy. Let’s find out how. Options: Your time at Options has seen some really big changes for the organization. And yet, for all the upsets and challenges, the magazine keeps coming out every month. What’s your secret? Kim: Well, someone put me in charge and then ran away! I never realized there was a choice. Seriously, though, there is a dedication that comes with being entrusted with something as precious as Options. There was history, and a reputation of solid gold, built by so many who had come before me. I had a lot of respect for that. But every month, there were stories that needed to be told; information that needed to get out there. And there was usually enough money to at least publish and mail our copies each month. But you are right; we have gone through some pretty lean times. There were months when I went unpaid, and for a while the whole operation was based in my house. The delivery guy would back up to my dining room windows to unload the copies each month, and then all the distribution volunteers would stop in to pick up their bundles. It felt a little like Grand Central Station at times, and there were always stacks of magazines everywhere – it was not my wife’s favorite period in Options’ history! But
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I knew that so many people really treasured Options. I heard regularly from people who just loved the publication, including many for whom Options had been a lifeline at some point in their life. And so we did what we had to do to keep it alive. O: Were there any goals or tasks for Options that you wanted to get to, but just didn’t have the resources? K: I would have loved to host an annual event, a performing arts or lecture series or a regional conference of some sort - some way to use our name and position to share information using a different medium, and giving our community another way to connect beyond the Pride parades and the drag shows and the bar scene. I also saw it as a way to showcase Options – and Rhode Island – as leadership material and a center of LGBTQ culture. Plus, my fantasy line-up for the lecture series was going to start with Dan Savage and Rachel Maddow – need I say more? O: What are you particularly proud of when you think about your time at the top of the Options masthead? K: I’m proud that we stayed true to our mission, to build and support the Rhode Island LGBTQ community. Options has always been respected as a news publication, and I’m proud to say we did not waver in editorial integrity.We never engaged in salacious content or covers to get more readers, and we never published a story because an advertiser wanted a deal. Another source of pride is the ownership we took in telling the whole story. I felt it was important to remind our readers of some of the hard truths – that gay men are still the targets of hate crimes in Providence every Saturday night; that domestic violence exists in our community; that, despite having marriage equality and a gay Speaker of the House and Congressman, we have not “arrived;” that we have more work to do. I’m proud that we shared the proceeds of our fundraisers with the other LGBTQ non-profits. Oh, and the editing in Options was always top-notch, thanks to our dedicated, if nerdy, editorial team. I think perfect punctuation, beautiful sentence structure and an absence of typographical errors should be almost invisible to readers if you do it right, and I think we did. O: It will be interesting to see if you come to think about Options differently over time. Do you think you will? K: I’m sure I will. When you have touched, written, designed, checked and double-checked every last detail of something like this, month after month, it is hard to look at any of it objectively. I really enjoyed that process, of making it just right, but it will be so much more relaxing to read Options without being accountable for every glitch! I’d say I might feel freer to be critical, but so many of you are my friends, so I’ll probably go easy on you. O: I think I can safely say that your love and commitment to the LGBTQ community has been at the heart of your commitment to Options. But I also know firsthand how much work and dedication have to go into each edition. How do you feel about handing off that responsibility? K: Fabulous. Fabulous! Someone else can work those nights and weekends and holidays for a change! As much as I loved being at Options, I will not miss all the work. O: Tell us why you thought Jen Stevens would be a good fit? K: I’ve known Jen for quite a while. She was so young when I first met her, but even then I saw something special in her. She is smart and direct and a hard worker, and a really dedicated member of the community. Jen has this earnest quality about her, and I like that she’s not caught up in
Options | March 2014
her ego. And when I found out she was an editor, too – well, I knew I had found my successor. O: Any pearls of wisdom for her? K: I don’t have to tell Jen about staying true to mission and standards, because I know she will. I guess I’d tell anyone taking over this job that it’s important to remember that no one [person] represents the queer community. It is so important to be out, talking to people, always looking for ideas and feedback.The readers need to come first, period. But I’d also tell her to have fun! I’m sure there are changes she will want to make, and I heartily encourage her to do that, but it’s a big job, so take it slow and find your footing. O: In talking with Jen, is there anything coming up that you are particularly excited about? K: Jen recently shared with me her observation that there is a shift in leadership in the RI LGBTQ community. Many of the “old guard” (of which I am a card-carrying member) are stepping down or at least stepping back a bit. She wants to honor that in the pages of Options, which I think is great. But, at the other end of the spectrum, she and her team will absolutely bring a new energy to the organization. I look forward to seeing the publication grow under her leadership. Mostly, I’m just so excited that there is a strong team in place. It makes it so much easier to walk away. O:Will you still be involved with the organization? If so, doing what? K: I would love to keep writing for Options, and I may drop in at editing nights or the distribution party – it is such a wonderful group of people… always a good time. And since so many of you have asked me to, I’ll stay on the Board of Directors for a while. But that’s about it. My long-range plan is to go back to being just another Options reader. A proud one.
“One thing I greatly respect about Kim is her genuine, heartfelt interest in supporting ALL of the people who make up Rhode Island’s LGBTQQ community. She goes above and beyond to help the community thrive--whether asking questions about under-served populations or stepping up to be an ally.” - Kerri Kanelos, Executive Director, Youth Pride, Inc.
“Kim is a wonderful community leader and someone I have learned so much from. Her passion, drive, energy and dedication to the Rhode Island’s LGBTQ community has been a great gift to us all.” - Thomas E. Bertrand, MPH, Executive Director, AIDS Project Rhode Island
“Kim is truly a RI treasure. Working with her in her Options’ role was a hugely positive experience -- she was always patient, professional, helpful and dedicated... rather like Mother Teresa in drag. Looking forward to seeing what she gets involved in next!” - Sally Hay, SAGE/RI
Want to get a chance to say goodbye to Kim personally? Check www.optionsri.org for details on a farewell sendoff and join the Options staff and volunteers in giving her a fond farewell.
GAY
Yo
The THIRD Thursday of EVERY MONTH! Missur hostess, Kitty Litter Doors open at 6pm, Bingo starts at 7pm SHARP! ! The Riviera Bingo Palace 1612 Elmwood Ave. Cranston, RI 02910 $20 to play, 18+ event Official Ball Puller, Haley Star!
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Options | March 2014
“Kim is one hell of a gal! I have worked with Kim for many years and she has always been to the point in a funny and tactful way. I will miss working with her on a monthly basis as well as her yearly phone call asking, “Kitty, can we count on a yearly contract from AIDS Care Ocean State?” She always knew the answer would be “yes.” On a personal note, Kim has been a huge asset not only to Options but to the whole LGBT Community and will continue to be with her position on the board of the Gay Community Center! Love you girl!” - Stephen Hartley, Development Director, AIDS Care Ocean State
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Lesbians on the Loose Annie Cronin-Silva & Melanie Silva As we sit and write this article, Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching.We like to think Valentine’s Day is not just a day to profess your feelings to your beloved but also a day to express your love for your friends. Our dear friends-our male counterparts as we like to call them-Donny and Kyle took center stage on January 18 at the State Room in Boston where they joined their hearts and became husband and husband! We felt privileged to witness this beautiful and romantic union. Picture it, the morning of the wedding fresh snow had fallen in Boston; a glistening soft white blanket covered the cobblestones and sidewalks. It was just enough to be pretty but not too messy to be a nuisance. A more perfect scene could not have been set if it was created for a movie script! As their family and friends gathered to celebrate their marriage and embrace the beautiful relationship of these two young men, we also marveled in the scenic beauty of the location overlooking the clock tower high above State Street. Donny and Kyle’s black-tie event was the wedding of the year! Everything was exquisite - the setting, the food, the music, the flowers, the photographer and the tuxedos! The room overflowed with excitement as Kyle’s siblings gave their toast, which included a surprise marching band playing “All You Need Is Love”! The looks on everyone’s faces were priceless! The place to be was on the dance floor. It was jam-packed and non-stop all night! High-energy performances included Donny’s signature dance routine to Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance”! Thank goodness the dance floor calmeddown for three slow songs because we were having a tough time keeping up with the 20-something crowd. LOL! We were teary-eyed when realizing one of the slow songs the boys had requested was our wedding song, “True Companion” by Marc Cohn. This sweet gesture speaks volumes to just how thoughtful
Donny and Kyle are. What stood out most, besides how fabulous everyone looked at this black-tie event, was the amount of love, happiness and support that filled the room that day! There are no words for the emotion and excitement that everyone felt as we witnessed these two men join their souls. We couldn’t think of a better way to get into the swing of things and back to our community than to attend the Options Magazine Distribution Party held last month at The Stable! Our extended Options family and the LGBTQ community welcomed us back with open arms as we gathered around the stacks of Options and spoke with patrons of The Stable. Michael Slade and Gary Jacques greeted us with big hugs and kisses (and, of course, their famous sangria) and let it be known that we were missed during our hiatus! The Distribution Party has always been a fantastic way to come out and meet the volunteers who work to bring Options together. If you ever wondered about a way to get involved, give back to the community and meet fabulous people while doing it, then you should definitely check out this party. Join us Sunday, March 30, at The Stable in Providence from 3-6pm when we release the April issue of Options!
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Options | March 2014
AIDS Care Ocean State Christopher Dalpe
Swing into Spring! Swing Into Spring will kick off the season as the biggest and most outrageous dance party of 2014! This 1930s-40s throwback event will include traditional swing dancing with a contemporary spin! Swing Into Spring will be held in the historic Roger Williams Park Casino on April 5 from 6:30pm to midnight. Tickets are $75 and can be purchased at aidscareos.org. The night will feature live music by Superchief Trio, hors d’oeuvres, light dinner fare and delicious cocktails served all night long! In addition, we will be honoring AIDS Care Ocean State’s 2013 Philanthropists of the year, Carol Mann and Thomas Wright. Last year was ACOS’s final Mardi Gras Ball. We intend to make Swing Into Spring our signature fundraising event of the spring! Proceeds from the evening will provide essential funds to ensure AIDS Care Ocean State can continue to provide unparalleled services to our 2,500+ client base.We look forward to swinging into spring with you!
Options | March 2014
HIV+ Gay Men’s Support Group Moves Please note that our HIV+ Gay Men’s Support Group has moved to a new location. Contact Scott Mitchel for more details 640-3108. Meetings will continue to be held Wednesdays from 1pm-3pm. The location may have changed but the group remains a free, safe and affirming space for HIV+ gay, bisexual and questioning men. AIDS Care Ocean State is dedicated to providing quality housing, case management, medical and nursing care, and prevention to adults, families, adolescents and children who are affected by or at risk for HIV infection. AIDS Care Ocean State acts as an advocate for individuals and families at risk, while providing those support services needed to ensure and maintain a high quality of life for the people we serve.
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RI Pride Jen Stevens March marks the start of Pride’s busy season. We like to kick it off with one of the most exciting lesbian events of the year! Our 15th Annual Goddess Show celebrates women performers and features music, dancing, drag, hula hooping and poetry. The hilarious Poppy Champlin, pictured, is this year’s host and Rachael Sage headlines! Goddesses from near and far will gather March 2 from 1-6pm at Chan’s in Woonsocket. Tickets cost $30 at the door/$25 in advance at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/565438. Grab your girlfriends for a guaranteed good time! PrideFest requires year-round planning but now is the time when things really heat up. We’re already working to secure sponsorships, entertainment, and city permits while handling vendor and parade registrations. Our efforts now will make June an easier mountain to climb! At a recent retreat, the Pride board of directors identified key board and volunteer roles available for folks who are willing to commit to the team and be involved in Pride in a big way. Think you have what it takes to chair a committee? Do you have experience in event planning, development, graphic design or website updating? If so, we especially hope you are able to attend our PrideFest planning retreat on March 8th from 11am-3pm at Beneficent Church in Providence. Lunch will be served, so please RSVP (or ask for more info) by writing to jennifer.stevens@prideri.com. All are welcome!
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The Triple Crown Pageant is always a fun and exciting event where community members compete for the title of Miss Gay RI, Mr. Gay RI, and Ms. Lesbian RI. If you want to run but these titles don’t seem to suit you, please apply anyway at www.prideri.com. We’re open to change. Contestants, be ready for one wild year! These titles don’t translate to just one day of glory. “Crowned Ones” will become integral Pride volunteers for the duration of their reign, planning fundraisers, helping with Pride events, and representing Pride in the larger community. Join us on April 6 at The Colosseum for a pageant like no other and cheer on your favorite contestants!
Options | March 2014
SAGE/RI Sally Ann Hay
But wait, we’re not done yet! SAGE/RI will be participating in Dining Out for Life again this year. Plan on joining us April 24 as we enjoy a fun night out and help raise much -needed funds for AIDS Project RI. Which restaurant should we go to? Decisions, decisions…. Stay tuned for more details.
Welcome, Ashley! What a Winter! We’ve been mighty busy at SAGE this winter, having conversations about the future – the future of LGBT seniors in RI, the future of SAGE/RI and how we can best serve our community. Exciting conversations are happening, lots of ideas have been shared and possibilities have been identified. Along the way, we’ve discovered a number of allies who get it – that older LGBT people have a unique history and, as a result, unique needs that are not being fully met. And these allies are willing to help SAGE/RI meet its mission. We don’t have a lot of clear answers to share yet, but we’re excited about how things are shaping up.
In January we welcomed Ashley Hayes as the newest member of our Advisory Committee. A graduate student at the Rhode Island College School of Social Work, Ashley is working this year at Elmhurst Extended Care Center and brings us an important perspective.
Want to Get Involved? We are looking for volunteers to help
plan our 2nd Annual GLBT Health Fair (to be held in May) and to help organize SAGE/RI social gatherings. The LGBT Senior Housing Committee is also looking for new members as they focus more closely at successful models for LGBT senior housing programs. Join this group and help create housing opportunities for our community. If you are interested in any of these challenges, drop us a line. 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 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.
What a Spring! We got such enthusiastic feedback about January’s shared Movie Night at Youth Pride, the obvious thing was to plan another movie night. Tentative plans are to gather in March. We will announce details via email and Facebook. Have a favorite movie to suggest? We’d love to hear from you! We’ve got some great educational events coming up as well. The people working in Adult Services at the Providence Center want to improve their sensitivity and capacity to meet the needs of their older LGBT clients and have invited us to provide a training at the end of March. On Friday, April 4, SAGE/RI will be presenting Visible Lives, our third conference for health care professionals. This year, we’ll focus on health care curricula as well as how to make services and programs safer and more welcoming to LGBT seniors. If you are interested and haven’t received an invitation, drop, us an email and we will gladly send you registration information! CEUs will be available.
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AIDS Project RI Tom Bertrand
Dining Out for Life It has become a Rhode Island spring tradition: Dining Out for Life benefiting AIDS Project RI. The 10th Annual Dining Out for Life will be Thursday, April 24. Participating restaurants from around the state donate a portion of patrons’ bills to AIDS Project Rhode Island. Our team is currently recruiting restaurants to sign on to take part in the event. As of mid-February, nearly twenty restaurants are already slated to participate including Blaze Eastside, CAV, Gracie’s, Hemenway’s, India, Kitchen Bar, Los Andes, New Rivers, Parkside, Pizzico, Three Sisters, Thee Red Fez, RiRa Irish Pub and Restaurant, and Rue De L’Espoir in Providence as well as Rasoi and Hose Company #6 in Pawtucket. The Burrito Company in Woonsocket has also signed on. We’re hoping to get at least thirty restaurants from cities and towns across the state to participate. For the first time ever we’re looking for a team of volunteers to help promote the event online and raise awareness via social media. We want each of our restaurants to have every seat filled on that day. So step out on a Thursday night for dinner with friends and family to help people living with HIV and AIDS and to help Rhode Island achieve zero transmission of HIV. It’s a great and caring way to celebrate the spring season.
Restaurants or social media volunteers should contact Amy Stein, the event’s director, at 559-7896 or amy@aidsprojectri.org. For more than 30 years, AIDS Project Rhode Island has provided HIV/ AIDS prevention and education services, as well as assistance for people living with HIV/AIDS. AIDS Project RI is a division of Family Service of RI. More information is available at www.aidsprojectri.org.
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Options | March 2014
Youth Pride, Inc. Kerri Kanelos
OUTSpoken Leadership Training, Now Enrolling! Hundreds of YPI participants have learned about identity development, LGBTQQ history, building positive self-esteem, and how to tell their personal stories through our OUTSpoken leadership development training program. Youth who graduate from our OUTSpoken program often move on to become leaders in our organization and the community - joining our Board of Directors, presenting at professional development workshops, testifying at the State House, organizing events, etc. Our next eight-week session runs from March 3 - May 12 on Monday nights from 5-7:30 pm To participate in OUTSpoken, youth must be between the ages of 13 and 23, and must be able to participate fully and commit to attending the entire session each week of the program.
Here is a sample curriculum for the next OUTSpoken cycle: Week 1: Introduction Week 2: What is a leader? Week 3: Learning styles and “community” Week 4: LGBT 101 Week 5: Personal Growth Week 6: Cultural Awareness Week 7: Privilege and Oppression Week 8: Ally Building
cause it has given me information and tools to be an advocate for whatever I am a part of or want to become a part of.” “The program helped me learn a lot about myself personally, not just about community and bigger issues.”
OUTSpoken participants have a lot to say about their experiences in the program: “I’ve been blind to the real issues that plague people of my race, gender, and sexual orientation and now I want to take responsibility and educate myself.” “I’ve learned to see important issues in my community and feel empowered to solve them.” “OUTSpoken truly lived up to its goals be-
Please visit youthprideri.org to download the OUTSpoken application. If you have any questions, please contact Elana Rosenberg at elana@youthprideri.org
OUTSpoken is made possible by funding from The Department of Children, Youth & Families (DCYF), Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island, and Providence College’s Making a Difference Fund.
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Options | March 2014
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TGI Network K.C. son, it can feel very lonely and isolating being around only cisgender people. Ultimately, not being around other trans people resulted in me feeling mostly tolerant of my trans identity, rather than loving and embracing it.
It wasn’t easy for me to realize a transgender support group would be beneficial to me.A little over a year ago, I was already pretty far into my transition from female-to-male. I had surgery, and had been on hormones for over five years. My next surgery was just on the horizon, and I was heading toward what I thought of as my transition “finish line.” I was at a place where I was “over” being trans. I told myself I didn’t need help with that aspect of my life. In reality, I had many insecurities and low self-confidence surrounding my trans identity. The Borderlands Transgender support group offered me support I didn’t even know I needed. I’ve had a few transgender friends, but not many and I’ve always felt very out of place in my own community. At the same time, I also felt different from my cisgender friends.They’re all very understanding and are the best allies I could ask for. I can talk about anything and they’re there for me but while they can listen, they can never truly relate, because they haven’t lived the transgender experience. For me, as a transgender per-
I had been to Borderlands once before and didn’t go back for a few months. I didn’t really give it a chance, because I thought there was nothing the group could possibly offer me, since I was so far along in transition.After my previous relationship ended, I thought I should force myself into some social interaction to keep me occupied and change things up. That’s when I started attending meetings regularly. I was very shy the first few meetings, and mostly I just listened. Even though it was people of all different ages, identities and stages of transition, people understood me. They were saying all the little things I thought to myself, but never felt like I could say out loud. It was really great to have a safe place where I didn’t feel different and I felt understood on a deep level. The group makes me feel like a part of my community. For me, a fairly shy person, sometimes it takes me a little while to warm up to people. Meeting people casually at trans conferences was nice, but it never let me really connect with people below the surface. I feel very comfortable and at ease with the many friends I’ve made in the group. Now I’m one of the group’s peer facilitators and that’s been a tremendous experience for me. I get so much support out of the group, and it makes me feel good to offer that support to others as their peer.
St. Peter’s & St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church A charming wedding venue in the Mt. Pleasant area of Providence Join us for worship on Sundays at 10:00am
A rainbow congregation
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272-9649 stpeters-standrews.org
I’m so happy that Borderlands has become a part of my life. Sometimes our conversations challenge my beliefs At first this was scary, but I’ve come to love it. I never want to stop questioning how I feel about and define my identity. It helps me to get to know and love my true self. I no longer see my transition as having a finish-line, but instead I see it as a journey that will last the rest of my life. I’ve grown so much since starting this transition, and still have a lot of growing to do, but I love who I am today. And it’s great to have a place where I can be with people to help me along my journey.The group reminds me of how far I’ve come. It keeps me from forgetting where I’ve been, and makes me think about where I want to go. Sometimes it’s a place just to connect and catch up with friends. Other times, it offers me a safe space to get things off my chest or openly and honestly question and figure myself out. No matter the tone or topics of each meeting, I always walk out with a smile on my face. I’m so grateful this group is here for us. Borderlands is a peer-led support group open to TGI people and to those who are exploring whether a TGI identity is a good description of their experience. Meetings are held from 7-9pm on the first and third Tuesday of the month in Providence.There is no “dress code” for the meeting; come in whatever clothes make you comfortable. There is a single-stall, gender-neutral restroom in the building available to anyone who would like to change clothes on-site. The meeting location is withheld for participant privacy. Please email borderlands@tginetwork. org for more information.
We’re coming out of the envelope! This is the last issue we plan on mailing in our signature white envelope. Email our subscription manager, Frank, for more information: frank@optionsri.org Options | March 2014
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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. Would you like your organization or service listed here? Email us at info@optionsri.org. All phone numbers are in the 401 area code and all addresses in Rhode Island, unless otherwise indicated. Addiction Support Groups AA Brothers in Sobriety: 372 Wayland Avenue, Providence. 751-9328. Saturday 7:30-8:30pm Alcohol/Drug Helpline: RI Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence. 24hr. (866) 252-3784 Gay Al-Anon: Tuesday 7:30pm. Congregational Church, 71 Park Place, Pawtucket. 726-2800 RI LGBT AA Group: Anchor Recovery Center, 249 Main Street, Pawtucket. Tuesdays 7pm Set Them Free: Narcotics Anonymous open discussion group. Meets Wednesdays 7:30-9pm. Anchor Recovery Community Center, 249 Main Street, Pawtucket. 721-5100 Suburban Gay & Lesbian: Fatima Shrine, Rt. 126, Holliston, MA. Thursday 8-9:30pm AIDS/Health Resources AIDS Care Ocean State: Case management, emergency funds, mental health & nutrition support, FACTS Nursery, housing for people with HIV/AIDS, referrals, advocacy, adolescent clinic, street outreach, ENCORE, education, HIV+ support groups. 18 Parkis Avenue, Providence. 521-3603. www.aidscareos.org AFIA Center for Health & Wholeness: Meals, food pantry, HIV support groups, recovery groups, recreational and social activities. Sponsored by AIDS Project RI; free to clients. Wednesday & Thursday 12-4pm. Matthewson Street Church, 134 Matthewson Street, Providence. Contact Gordon Cooper. 331-1350 ext. 3268. 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 Street, Woonsocket. 235-6092. lcohen@famresri.org AIDS Action Hotline: MA only. (800) 235-2331 AIDS Project RI: Division of Family Service of RI. Case management, buddies, COBRA & dental services, emergency fund, mental health counseling, nutrition support, assessment & referral, wellness programs, advocacy, strength training, prevention education. 404 Wickenden Street, Providence. 831-5522 AIDS Quilt RI: Displays local AIDS memorial quilt panels, panelmaking programs including Anna’s Workshop, HIV/AIDS education for young people. PO Box 2591, Newport, RI 02840. 434-4880. admin@aidsquiltri.org. annasworkshop@aidsquiltri.org. www.aidsquiltri.org Brown University AIDS Program: Clinical trials, public policy, research, lectures, conferences, patient & community education. 863-6790. brunap@brown.edu. www.brown.edu/brunap Chiropractic Services: Free for unemployed HIV+ patients. Ronald P. Marsh, D.C., 11 King Charles Drive, Portsmouth. 683-1941 Comprehensive Community Action Programs: Medical, mental health, dental, social services, LGBT outreach. 311 Doric Avenue, Cranston. Also Coventry and Warwick. Contact Sarah Bowman. 467-9610
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Crossroads RI Health Care Services: Free, confidential, anonymous HIV counseling & testing for homeless/at risk. Monday & Wednesday 1-3pm. Contact Gloria. 521-2255, ext. 325 Gabriel Care, LLC: Nursing/social worker case management & financial compensation for assistance and supervision for those living with HIV. MassHealth funded for MA residents. Contact Michael. (508) 678-1002 HIV AntibodyTesting: Anonymous. RI Department of Health. Providence, Newport and other locations. Free or sliding scale. 222-2320 Home and Hospice Care of RI: Medical care management for HIV/ AIDS. 24hr nursing staff for treatment. 782-0725. Bereavement groups: Contact John Charette. 727-7079 HPV Study: For gay/bi men ages 18-26. Receive free HPV vaccine and HIV testing. Must be HIV-negative to participate. Miriam Hospital. Contact Gail. 793-4335. gyates@lifespan.org House of Compassion: HIV/AIDS housing. 2510 Mendon Road, Cumberland. 658-3992 Jewish AIDS Task Force: Programs for HIV/AIDS and Jewish communities. 421-4111 ext. 172 LGBT Caregiver Online Support Group: For LGBTs caring for someone with chronic health problems. www.caregiver.org 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: Outreach to minorities, women of color and LGBT community at clubs and other locations. North Providence office provides free condoms and information about STIs and post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV. 305-3993. info@ plaidsproject.org. www.plaidsproject.org or www.pl-aids.org Project ACT: Free anonymous HIV counseling and testing. Walk-in hours Monday 9am-4pm & 5-7pm,Tuesday & Thursday 9am-4pm or by appointment. 1 Washington Street,Taunton, MA. (508) 977-8146 Project Empower: Wellness program for gay, bi & questioning men in south coast MA. Info on HIV/STD test sites & safe sex, social/support groups, therapists & health care referrals. Community Counseling of Bristol County. (508) 828-6692. www.projectempower.com Project Weber: Services for male sex workers. Drop-in center, support groups, HIV & Hep C testing, clean needles. www.facebook. com/projectweber. www.projectweber.org SSTAR (Stanley Street Treatment & Resources): Counseling, drug treatment, detox, domestic violence programs, free & confidential HIV, HEP C & STD testing, education, case management and support. 386 Stanley Street, Fall River, MA. (508) 679-5222. Project Aware (HIV/HCV). (800) 937-3610. Family Healthcare Center (508) 6751054. www.sstar.org Tranquil Mind & Wellness: Counseling, alternative healing, yoga, Pilates, meditation. 105 Charles Eldridge Drive, Lakeville, MA. (508) 947-1683 Thundermist Health Association: 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 testing. 450 Clinton Street, Woonsocket. Contact Philip Kane. 767-4100 ext. 3516
Options | March 2014
Information/Education Fenway Gay and Lesbian Helpline: Support, information & referrals. Fenway Community Health Center, Boston. Open daily 6-11pm. (617) 267-9001 or 888-340-4528 GLBT National Help Center Hotline: Local resources nationwide provided by social services agency. 888-843-4564. www.glbtnationalhelpcenter.org Newport Out: LGBT website for Newport. www.newportout.com 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 Nightlife The Alley Cat Providence: Downtown neighborhood bar. MondayThursday 3pm-1am, Friday 3pm-2am, Saturday 2pm-2am, Sunday 2pm-1am. 17 Snow Street, Providence. 272-6369 Bobby’s Place: Dancing, pool, video lounge, karaoke. MondayThursday 5pm-1am, Friday 5pm-2am, Saturday 2pm-2am, Sunday 2pm-1am. 62 Weir Street, Taunton, MA. (508) 824-9997. www.bobbysplacema.com Brooklyn Coffee Tea House: Special events space, film screenings and other public & private events. Open mic first & third Saturday. 209 Douglas Avenue, Providence. 575-2284. www.brooklyncoffeeteahouse.com Club Body Center: Gay men’s sauna. Membership required. Oneday pass available. Open 24hr. 257 Weybosset Street, Providence. 274-0298. www.clubbodycenter.com DeVille’s: Lesbian, gay, straight, it’s all good. Sunday, Wednesday & Thursday 5pm-12am, Friday & Saturday 5pm-1am. 345 South Water Street, Providence. 383-8883. www.devillescafe.com Ego: Providence’s newest gay nightlife performance/event space. Thursday 9pm-1am, Saturday 9pm-3am, 73 Richmond St, Providence. 383-1208 Mega-Plex and Hush Providence: Gay men’s bathhouse. Open 24 hr. Membership required. One day pass available. 257 Allens Avenue, Providence. www.themega-plex.com Providence Eagle: Leather, Levi, bear cruise bar. Sunday-Thursday 3pm1am, Friday & Saturday 3pm-2am. 124 Snow Street, Providence. 421-1447 The Stable: Downtown video bar. No cover. Sunday-Thursday 12pm-1am, Friday-Saturday 12pm-2am. 125 Washington Street, Providence. 272-6950 T.W.I.S.T. Program Coffee Night: Coffee & light snacks served Thursday 7-9pm. 1287 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford. 508-672-0378 Political & Legal Groups American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): 128 Dorrance Street, Suite 220, Providence. 831-7171 Amnesty International OUTfront: Program to campaign globally for LGBTIQ human rights. 212-807-8400. Cvohs18904@yahoo.com. www.amnestyusa.org 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. queer@brown.edu Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD): LGBT/HIV legal info hotline. Weekdays 1:30-4:30pm. (800) 455-GLAD. 30 Winter Street, Suite 800, Boston, MA. www.GLAD.org
Options | March 2014
Green Party of RI: PO Box 1151, Providence, RI 02901. 490-7602 Lambda Legal Defense & Education Fund: 120 Wall Street, Suite 1500, NY, NY 10005. (212) 809-8585 Lawyers for Equality and Diversity (LEAD): Advocates for LGBT causes. lawyersforequality@gmail.com Marriage Equality RI: info@marriageequalityri.org The Next Thing (TNT): Political and support group for queer people of color located at Brown University. 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 Street, 3rd floor, Providence. 222-2662. TDD: 222-2664 RI Socialist Action: 952-5385. adgagneri@gmail.com. For Spanish: 351-3414. walsil@cox.net Servicemembers Legal Defense Network: Serving LGBT military personnel and veterans affected by the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy. PO Box 65301, Washington DC, 20035. (202) 328-3244, ext. 100. sldn@sldn.org. www.sldn.org Straight But Not Narrow Coalition: Straight supporters. PO Box 2591, Newport, RI 02840. 847-7637 Religious & Spirtual All Saints Memorial Church: 674 Westminster Street, Providence. 751-1747. asmcri@verizon.net. www.allsaintsmemorial.org Amicable Congregational Church: UCC. Open & Affirming. Pastor William Sterrett. Sunday 10am. 3736 Main Road,Tiverton. 624-4611. amicablechurch@aol.com Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists: mail@wabaptists.org Barrington Congregational Church: UCC. “The white church.” 461 Old County Road, Barrington. 246-0111. www.bccucc.org Bell Street Chapel: Unitarian Universalist. A welcoming congregation. Rev. Ann Willever. 5 Bell Street, Providence. 273-5678. www.bellstreetchapel.org Beneficent Congregational Church: UCC. An Open & Affirming congregation in the heart of Providence. Co-Pastors Todd & Nicole Yonkman. Sundays 10am. 300 Weybosset Street, Providence. 331-9844. www.beneficentchurch.org Berean Baptist Church: A safe and welcoming place for all God’s children. Sunday 10am. 474 Chapel Street, Harrisville. 568-5411. bereanbaptist@verizon.net. www.bereanri.org Calvary Episcopal Church: Open and welcoming. 158 Broad Street, Burrilville. 568-3888. calvary125@aol.com. www.calvaryepiscopal.us Calvary United Methodist Church of Middletown: LGBTQ early dementia support group. Contact Amy. 200 Turner Road, Middletown. 847-6181 Central Congregational Church: UCC. An Opening & Affirming Congregation. Sundays 10:30am. 296 Angell Street, Providence. 331-1960. www.centralchurch.us Channing Memorial Church: Unitarian Universalist. A Welcoming Congregation. 135 Pelham Street, Newport. 846-0643. www.channingchurch.org Charter Oak Grove ADF: An Open and Welcoming Congregation of neo-pagan druids in CT. charteroakadf@gmail.com. www.charteroakadf.org
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Christ Church in Lonsdale: Episcopal. 1643 Lonsdale Avenue, Lincoln. Services 8am and 10:30am. 725-1920. www.christchurchlincoln.org Church of the Epiphany: A diverse Open & Affirming Episcopal congregation. 1336 Pawtucket Avenue, Rumford. 434-5012. www.epiphanyep.org Church of the Holy Paraclete: Independent Old Catholic. Fr. Jakob Lazarus. Sunday 6pm. 155 Douglas Avenue, Providence. 218-0706. www.holyparaclete.org Edgewood Congregational Church: UCC. Open & Affirming. 1788 Broad Street, Cranston. 461-1344. www.edgewoodchurchri.org Emmanuel Episcopal Church: 120 Nate Whipple Highway, Cumberland. 658-1506 First Congregational Church in Bristol: An Open and Affirming Congregation. Pastor Dan Randall. 281 High Street, Bristol. 253-7288 First Unitarian Church: A welcoming congregation. Sunday 10:30am. One Benevolent Street, Providence. 421-7970 First Unitarian Church: 71 8th Street, New Bedford, MA. (508) 994-9686 First Universalist Society: UU. Welcoming congregation. Samegender weddings. 262 Chestnut Street, Franklin, MA. (508) 5285348. fusf@verizon.net. www.fusf.org Foxboro Universalist Church: Unitarian Universalist Association. 6 Bird Street, Foxboro, MA. 508-543-4002. www.uufoxborough.org Grace Episcopal Church in Providence: 175 Mathewson Street, Providence. 331-3225 Immanuel Lutheran Church: A Reconciling in Christ congregation. Pastor Sandra Demmler Damico. 647 North Main Street, Attleboro, MA. (508) 222-2898. www.immanuellc.org Interweave at Channing: UU Church. A membership organization for the spiritual, political and social well-being of LGBTQ persons, and their allies, confronting oppression. 135 Pelham Street, Newport. 846-0643 Mathewson St. Church: United Methodist. 134 Mathewson Street, Providence. 331-8900 Meditation: Gay men’s meditation experience. Relax and connect. Fee applies. Third Tuesday. Cranston. 7-8pm. 944-0723 Mercy of God Community: Christian, inclusive religious order. www.mgc.org Murray Unitarian Universalist Church: Marriage & commitment ceremonies for all. Rev. Sandra D. Fitz-Henry. 505 North Main Street, Attleboro, MA. (508) 222-0505 www.murrayuuchurch.org Newman Congregational Church: Open & Affirming. 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford. 4311-4742 Newport Congregational Church: UCC. Open & Affirming. Rev. Hayes & Rev. Baker. 73 Pelham Street, Newport. 849-2238. nccucc@ newportcongregationalchurch.org Park Place Congregational Church: 71 Park Place, Pawtucket. 726-2800 The Pub Church: A church that meets in a pub! Open & Affirming. Location may change. Saturday. 5pm. The Dugout, 722 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA. thepubchurch@gmail.com Pilgrim Lutheran Church: An inclusive congregation. 1817 Warwick Avenue, Warwick. 739-2937 Pilgrim United Church of Christ: Open and Affirming. 635 Purchase Street, New Bedford. 508-997-5684 Riverside Church: UCC.15 Oak Avenue, Riverside. 433-2039. www.rcc-ucc.com St. Augustine’s Church and Episcopal Center at URI: 35 Lower College Road, Kingston. 783-2153 www.staugustineuri.com
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St. Francis City Ministry at the Church of St. Mary: Office of LGBT Outreach. 535 Broadway, Providence. 353-1422 St. James Church: Episcopal. 474 Fruit Hill Avenue, North Providence. 353-2079 St. Martin’s Episcopal Church: 50 Orchard Street, Providence. 751-2141 St. Martin’s Episcopal Church: County & River Streets, 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 East Main Street, Portsmouth. 862-1466. www.stpaulsportsmouthri.org St. Peter & St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church: 25 Pomona Avenue, Providence. 272-9649. stpanda25@verizon.net. www.stpetersandstandrews.org Saint Therese Old Catholic Church: Open & Affirming. Fr. David Martins. Sunday 10:30am. 134 Mathewson Street, Providence. 2634296. www.saintthereseocc.org Second Congregational Church of Attleboro: UCC. Open & Affirming. 50 Park Street, Attleboro, MA. Sunday 10am. (508) 2224677. www.attleborosecondchurch.org Seekonk Congregational Church: Rev. Joy Utter. 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA. (508) 336-9355. www.scc-ucc.com Temple Agudas Achim: Reconstructionist congrgation. Rabbi Elyse Wechterman. 901 North Main Street, Attleboro, MA. (508) 222-2243. www.agudasma.org Temple Beth-El: Rabbi Sarah E. Mack. 70 Orchard Avenue, Providence. 331-6070 Temple Emanu-El: Sessions Street & Morris Avenue, 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 Road, Barrington. 245-6536. www.templehabonim.org Temple Sinai: A welcoming Reform temple. Rabbi Peter Stein, 30 Hagen Avenue, Cranston. 942-8350. www.templesinairi.org Unitarian Society of Fairhaven (MA): 102 Green Street, Fairhaven, MA. (508) 992-7081 Unitarian Universalist Congregation of South County: 27 North Road, Peace Dale. 783-4170 or Val 789-7282. www.uusouthcountyri.org United Church of Christ: Coalition for LGBT concerns. Contact Ray Bradley. 13 Steven Circle, South Kingstown. 782-3871 Westminster Unitarian/Universalist Church: A UUA Welcoming Congregation. 119 Kenyon Avenue, East Greenwich. 884-5933 Social Organizations Bisexual Resource Center: 29 Stanhope Street, Boston, MA. (617) 424-9595. www.biresource.net Biversity Boston: Mixed-gender social events for Boston and the surrounding area. www.biversity.org Boston Bisexual Women’s Network: Social activities including monthly brunches, coming out groups and quarterly newsletter “Bi Woman.” www.biwomenboston.org Bears Ocean State (BOS): Informal e-group for gay & bisexual bear-identified and-affiliated men for friendly companionship. All welcome. Age-restricted. bearsoceanstate-subscribe@yahoogroups.com. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bearsoceanstate
Options | March 2014
Bridgewater State College GLBT Alumni Group: Contact Kenneth Hayes (‘91). khayesbbc@msn.com. www.bridgew.edu Cape and Islands Gay & Straight Youth Alliance (CIGYA): (508) 778-7744 CORISMA: Potluck get-togethers for couples from RI and southeast MA. . corismainfo@comcast.net. www.corismagroup.org Defenders/Providence: Leather/Levi club. Third Sunday. 6pm PO Box 41153, Providence, RI 02940 Feminist Voices: Women’s chorus. www.feministvoices.com Gay Lesbian Alliance of Newport County Etc. (GLANCE): Social and entertainment events. glance1234@hotmail.com Gay Men’s Meditation Group: Fee applies. Third Thursday. 6:307:30pm. 225-8149 Imperial Court of RI at Providence: Drag and non-drag performers raise funds for local charities. First Monday. RI Pride Office,1005 Main Street, #1105, Pawtucket. All welcome. PO Box 6583, Providence, RI 02904. www.icriprov.org Lesbian Writers Group: Writing exercises, support. No critiquing or workshopping. Free. Rochambeau Library, Russian or Computer room. 708 Hope Street, Providence. Monday 7-8:30pm Men’s Card Group: Contact John. 261-9715. johninprov@gmail.com Men’s Gay Camping: In RI, CT and MA. Gatherings organized from tents to RVs during spring, summer and fall. 277-0075. gaycamping@gmx.com Mixed Borders Gardening Group: Gardening and more. Monthly meetings, all welcome. Mixedborders@cox.net. www.MixedBorders.com Opera Club: Last Sunday of each month at 1pm. Enjoy hearing and attending. Dave, BrettCornellpi4@aol.com Pawtuxet Pride: GLBTQ folks & friends in Pawtuxet Village (Cranston and beyond). 345-1264. EDZL@aol.com Providence Gay Men’s Chorus: New season rehearsals begin in January and August. Singers and non singing volunteers welcome. Monday 7-9:30pm. Beneficent Church, 300 Weybosset Street, Providence. www.provgmc.org Queer Book Club: Third Wednesday 7pm. Books on the Square, 471 Angell Street, Providence. queerbookclub@gmail.com Raging Grannies: Women “of a certain age” working toward a more peaceful, equitable society with song, humor & passion. Will sing for rallies & events. jlglass53@aol.com RI Association of Gay Professionals: Professional networking and philanthropy. 453-9276. gayprofessionalnetworkofri@gmail.com RI Lesbian Social Club: Social gatherings for women. 272-2962. heylari@yahoo.com RI Parents Pride: Gay parents socializing together with their children. Contact Melanie. 464-2288. saphicangel120@yahoo.com RI Pride: Parade & festival, year-round events. Mail: PO Box 1082, Providence, RI 02901. Office:1005 Main Street #1105, Pawtucket. 467-2130. info@prideri.com. www.prideri.com RI Prime Timers: Social and networking group for gay and bisexual men 40 and older. Second Sunday. 996-3010. www.riprimetimers.org RI Skeptics Society: Yearning to talk with someone rational? Refreshing discussion. Fourth Saturday. Seekonk restaurant. http://skeptics.meetup.com/133/ RI Women’s Association: Lesbian social group. 21+. Dances & events. www.riwa.net
Options | March 2014
SAGE/RI (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders): Advocacy, education and social events for LGBTQ seniors. 235 Promenade Street, Suite 500, Box 18, Providence, RI 02908. 528-3259. sageriinfo@gmail.com SEMASSMEN: Social group for GBQ men of south eastern MA and RI to foster strong friendships. Semassmen-subscribe@yahoogroups.com. rlevass@yahoo.com Trans Queer RI: Friendship, fun activities and support for transgender, queer & like-minded people. Gatherings third Sunday. 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 Thursday 7-9pm. (508) 672-0378 UNISONG: For unity through song. Non-performance monthly singing session. jlglass53@aol.com. www.unisong.net WomenRIsing: Feminist chorus. Director Nancy Rosenberg. Contact@womenrisingchorus.org. www.womenrisingchorus.org Yankee Lambda Car Club: Regional club for GLBT people interested in vintage & specialty cars. sisherwood@aol.com. www.yankeelcc.com Sports PrideSports Boston: Network of twenty-plus gay sports leagues/ teams in Boston area. (617) 937-5858. www.pridesportsboston.com Basketball Boston Gay Basketball League: (617) 937-5858 ext. 2. www.bgbl.com Bowling RI GALA Bowling: Sunday 6pm. East Providence Lanes, Newport Avenue, East Providence. Contact Bruce or Bill. 397-3803 or 8285587. Monday night women’s bowling league. Contact Pat. 451-2188 Royal Court Bowling League: 9pm Wednesdays. Woonsocket Hill Bowl. 767-2110 Big Gay Al’s Duckpin Bowling League: Proceeds benefit AIDS causes. Tuesday 6:30pm. Town Hall Lanes, Johnston. Contact Frank Ferri. 831-6940. www.bgalbowling.com. www.townhalllanes.com Monday Night Bowling League: Monday 7:30pm. 820 William T. Morrissey Boulevard, Boston, MA. www.mnbl.net Football FLAG (For Lesbians and Gays) Football: Boston-based recreational football club. Saturday mornings in the fall and spring. All skill levels are encouraged to participate. www.flagflagfootball.com Northeastern Nitro: Professional women’s football team. Members of the Women’s Football Alliance. Practices held in Bethel, CT. Contact Amy Manfred or Carley Pesente. amymanfred@yahoo.com or linebackergirl56@aol.com RI/S.E. MA Flag Football: Saturday 10am. All levels and genders welcome. mbs1994ever@yahoo.com Hockey Boston Pride Hockey: (617) 937-5858 Ext. 7. www.bostonpridehockey.org Ice Hockey for Women: Contact Gail Wickstrom. gwick@kersur.net Martial Arts Rondeaus Kickboxing: 272-5425. www.rondeauskickboxing.com Main Street Martial Arts: Non-profit. Welcoming dojo and community center. 1282 North Main Street, Providence. 274-7672. www.mainstma.org
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Outdoor Chiltern Mountain Club: New England’s LGBT outdoor recreation club. events@chiltern.org. www.chiltern.org Boston Gay Rowers: Worldwide online community for gay and lesbian rowers, coxies, coaches, and race officials. www.glrf.org Rugby Boston Ironsides Rugby Football Club: www.bostonironsides.org Running/Walking Frontrunners Rhode Island: LGBT running and walking group. Newcomers welcome. Thursday 6pm. Meet at the end of Blackstone Boulevard at Hope Street, Providence. Contact Brian. 751-7643. bripm@cox.net Frontrunners Boston: Saturday morning walk/run along the Charles River. 10am. Meet in front of Club Cafe, 209 Columbus Avenue, Boston, MA. www.frontrunnersboston.org OutRyders: New England’s largest gay and lesbian ski and snowboard club. brian@outryders.org. www.outryders.org Soccer Boston Strikers Soccer Club: Non-profit, social organization to learn and improve soccer skills in a relaxed, congenial environment (617) 937-5858 Ext. 9. www.bostonstrikers.com Softball Renaissance City Softball League: New players and boosters always welcome. (226) 7771-642. rcsl_commish@cox.net. www.providencesoftball.org Beantown Softball League: Friendly competition. 27 teams in 4 divisions of play: competitive, intermediate, and two recreational. (617) 297-7490. www.beantownsoftball.com Swimming LANES (Liquid Assets New England Swimming): Fitness and/or competition. (617) 937-5858. www.swim-lanes.org Tennis Tennis-4-All: Boston, MA area tennis organization. www.tennis4all.org Volleyball Cambridge Boston Volleyball Association: Players of all skill levels welcome. (617) 633-2180. www.GayVolleyball.net Ocean State Pride Volleyball League: Adult co-ed indoor league following USVBA rules. No try-outs. Fee applies. Kent County YMCA, 900 Centerville Road, Warwick. ospvolleyball@gmail.com Wrestling East Coast Wrestling Club: 467-6737.(617) 937-5858 ext. 6. ecwc@ juno.com. www.eastcoastwrestlingclub.org Students & Youth Bristol Community College Gay/Straight Alliance (BCC/GSA): Steven Camara, Advisor. (508) 678-2811ext. 2391. BCC-H202, 777 Elsbree Street, Fall River, MA Brown University Queer Alliance: Umbrella organization at Brown Univeristy for LGBTQ groups. 863-3062. queer@brown.edu or lgbtq@brown.edu Bryant Pride: Bryant University Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual Student Association. 232-6389 CCRI Triangle Alliance: Student & staff GLBTQ group meets on Flanagan and Liston campuses. 455-6065
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COLAGE: Support and social activities for children of LGBT parents. Third Saturday 10:30am-12pm. Gordon School, East 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: Youth-staffed hotline for GLBT youth. Support, info and referrals. 5-10pm. Fenway Community Health Center, Boston, MA. (617) 267-2535 or (800)-399-PEER S.A.F.E (Sexual Advocacy for Everyone): Roger Williams University LGBTQ & allies group. Weekly meeting in Intercultural Center. Speakers, social and awareness events. Pride week in April. saferwu03@gmail.com Salve Regina University Gay Straight Lesbian Bisexual Alliance (GSLBA): 100 Ochre Point Avenue, Newport. Sister Johnelle. Lucianij@salve.edu SeaQuel (Southeast Asian Queers United for Empowerment and Leadership): Bi-weekly Sunday meetings. 383-7450. SeaQuel@ Prysm.us. myspace.com/seaQuel S.H.E.P.A.R.D. (Stopping Homophobia, Eliminating Prejudices and Restoring Dignity): Providence College, 1 Cunningham Square, Providence. 865-1631. shepard@providence.edu The Trevor Project: The only nationwide, around-the-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for LGBT youth. Also offers social networks. (866)4-U-TREVOR (866-488-7386). thetrevorproject.org University of RI Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer & Questioning (LGBTIQ2): Alumni association. 874-5808. gsimonelli@advance.uri.edu URI Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer Center: A cultural department for students, faculty and staff. Florence Badejo. 874-2894 Youth Pride Inc./The Way Out: Support, education & advocacy for LGBTQQ young people ages 13-23. Drop-in center at 743 Westminster Street, Providence. Monday-Thursday 12pm-8pm, Friday 4-8pm, Saturday 10am-5pm. The Way Out peer support group Tuesday 5pm. Gender Spectrum support group Tuesday 5:30pm. Ask about 14-and-under day. 421-5626. kerri@youthprideri.org. 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. advocate@tnir.org Adoption Options: Non-sectarian help. Jewish Family Service, 959 North Main Street, Providence. Contact Betsy Alper. 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. 276-4318. www.childrensfriendri.org Foster parents sought: Training, stipend, support provided for nurturing families. Family Service of RI. Contact Gregary Wright. 331-1350 ext. 3305 Behavioral health outpatient services: Fall River area. S.T.E.P.: (508) 235-1012. T.W.I.S.T.: (508) 672-0378 Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center: Offering resources for victims of domestic violence. 723-3057 Catholic Parents Outreach: Always Our Children, first and third Tuesday. Sacred Heart Convent, 395 Chestnut Street, Springfield, MA. (413) 736-6803
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COLAGE (Children of Gays): A national movement of people with one or more LGBT parents. Social activities, education & advocacy. Third Saturday. rhodeisland@colage.org. Coordinator Veronica Jutras. vjutras5@gmail.com Compass: FTM trans info, support and social group. Boston first Thursday 7-9pm. compassftm@comcast.net. www.compassftm.org Crossroads RI Hotline: (800) 367-2700 Day One (Formerly Sexual Assault and Trauma Resource Center of RI): Counseling & legal aid for victims of sexual assault/abuse & incest. 24hr hotline. (800) 494-8100. 421-4100 Dementia and Early Alzheimer’s LGBTQ support group: Calvary United Methodist Church of Middletown, 200 Turner Road, Middletown. 847-6181 Domestic Violence Resource Center of South County: Support, court advocacy, counseling, safe home, info for women and men in abusive or controlling relationships. 24hr free and confidential helpline. 782-3990 Gay Fathers of Greater Boston: Support. outreach@ gayfathersboston.org. www.gayfathersboston.org Gay Fathers Support Group: Rhode Island. Fee applies. Contact Tom Fronczak, LICSW. 431-2953 Gay Men’s Domestic Violence Project: Support, info, shelter. (800) 832-1901. www.gmdvp.org Gay Officers Action League/New England (GOAL NE): Law enforcement officers (sworn & civilian), fire, rescue and publicly employed EMS. Confidential. P.O. Box 587, Boston, MA 02117. (617) 376-3612. info@goalne.org. www.goalne.org Gay Share: Coming Out? Gay men’s support group. No fee. Wednesday 7:30pm. Contact Tom or Mike. 369-9448. info@gayshare.org. www. gayshare.org Helpline for LGBT Youth: Trevor Helpline and social networks for crisis and suicide prevention. 24/7. (866) 4-U-Trevor HIV+ Gay Men’s Support Group: Refreshments served. AIDS Care Ocean State, 18 Parkis Avenue, Providence. 521-3603. New members contact Scott. 640-3108 Kathy’s Group: Free support group for lesbians with cancer or any life-threatening illness. Meets monthly in Providence. Partners and caregivers welcome. 888-5KATHYS Lesbian Moms of Southern NE: Discussion, support and activity list for lesbian mothers. foradancer63@aol.com. www.topica.com/lists/ LMOSNE Mantalk of S.E. Mass: Socializing and discussions for gay, bi and curious men. Confidential. Drug and alcohol-free. 18+.Taunton Thursday & New Bedford first Tuesday. 7-8:30pm. mantalksouthcoast@yahoo.com National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Assoc./New England: Works for fair and accurate media coverage of LGBT issues. info@nlgja.org
PFLAG (Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians & Gays): Greater Providence chapter. Serves all of RI and southeastern MA. First Wednesday 6:45pm. Met School, 325 Public Street, Providence. 7517571. pflagprovidence@verizon.net. www.pflagprovidence.org RI Coalition Against Domestic Violence: 24hr helpline: (800) 4948100. 467-9940 RI Rainbow Support Group: For people with disabilities who identify as LGBTQ. Last Tuesday. 98 Rolfe Street, Cranston. 6-7:30pm. Contact Ken Renaud. 785-2100. RI Relay 711. Samaritans: 24hr hotline for suicidal, lonely, despairing, depressed. (800) 365-4044. 272-4044 (RI only). www.samaritansri.org Sexual Health Education & Advocacy Program: HIV, sexual wellness, domestic violence risk reduction. Free, confidential, bilingual (Spanish). No caller ID used. Calls blocked for safety. Contact Aida. 861-6191 ext. 121. amanduley@sojournerri.org Sojourner House: Support, shelter, advocacy and information for people in abusive relationships. No caller ID used. Calls blocked for safety. 861-6191 Straight Spouse Support: Straight spouse professional offers peer support and referrals. Contact Jane Harris. (413) 625-6636. jcmalinski48@gmail.com Straight Spouses Group: For information on groups and online support. www.straightspouse.org TGI Network of RI: Support, advocacy for transgender, transsexual, gender-variant, genderqueer & intersex people. info@tginetwork.org. www.tginetwork.org Transgender Support Group: Cape Cod (508) 362-4435 Trans Family New England: Gives parents and family members of transgender people a safe place to explore impact of gender identity of their loved ones and to connect with other families. second Tuesday. Providence. Location unpublished for privacy. 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 people. Last Wednesday. Providence. Location unpublished for privacy. partners@tginetwork.org TransYouth Family Allies: Support for gender-variant and transgender children ages 3-18. info@imatyfa.org. www.imatyfa.org 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 Women’s Resource Center of Newport and Bristol Counties: Offering services to victims of domestic violence. 846-5263
Help us grow our resource listings! For over 30 years we’ve dedicated space in our publicaton to provided the LGBTQ community with resources ranging from health & wellness to nightlife. Please help us keep our community strong & vibrant by informing us of any errors or additions: info@optionsri.org Options | March 2014
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Options | March 2014