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Choosing a School for Your Family By Lisa A. Eramo
When Bridget Baird and her partner of 12 years (shown at left) were looking for a school for their two sons, now ages five and eight, finding a place that would be LGBT affirming was a must. They’d received positive feedback about the Gordon School in East Providence, and when they met with the admissions team, Baird says she knew it would be a good fit for their family. “It was definitely made very clear during our interview that it was a positive thing to be an LGBT family,” says Baird. “Gordon really embraces every family configuration completely, but more than that, they just affirm each child and each family.” At Gordon, conversations about gender, diversity and family configuration take place as early as nursery school, says Baird, who started working as an early childhood music teacher for the school in September. “I think it’s important for all children to feel like their reality is as valid as everyone else’s. If there is no proactive support for the Continued on page 13
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In 1982...
In this issue:
News Briefs
5 Letters
6
Calendar
9 Interview with Author Mari SanGiovanni 15 Interview with Candidate Michael Gardiner
16 The Journey Out to be Staged at RI Schools 18 Voices: Our Civil Union 19 Project Prep Talk 20
22 AIDS Community Watch 25
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In 1982...
In 1982, Wisconsin became the first state to ban anti-gay discrimination. It would be nine years before another state followed suit. AIDS was still often called “gay cancer.” The Commodore 64 8-bit home computer was introduced at the Consumer Electronics Show. France removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders. Claus von Bülow was found guilty of the attempted murder of his wife. The Falklands War began and ended. Northern Ireland decriminalized consensual homosexual acts between adults, the last jurisdiction within the United Kingdom to do so. A ground-breaking ceremony for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was held in Washington, DC. Chariots of Fire won Best Picture. The first compact discs (CDs) were released to the public in Germany. San Francisco mayor Dianne Feinstein vetoed a domestic partnership bill. Walt Disney World opened its theme park EPCOT Center to the public for the first time Seven people in the Chicago area died after ingesting Tylenol capsules laced with potassium cyanide. In a Gallup Poll, 51% of Americans did not accept homosexuality as normal. Michael Jackson released Thriller, the biggest selling album of all time.
And Options began publishing the news of the Rhode Island gay community. options
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News Briefs Fenway Institute Provides Data-Gathering Guidelines for Healthcare Providers
support system which would assist men and women with same-sex attractions in living chaste lives in fellowship, truth and love.” Rev. Paul Check runs the Courage meetings at St. Mary’s Church in Norwalk and claims that the group will “address homosexuality as a lived reality in the lives of individual people,” but provide instruction for participants to “live [the Church’s] teaching,” with an emphasis on chastity. Catholics for Equality, a national pro-LGBTQ organization, has spoken out against the program. “At its core, it’s still rooted in dangerous, harmful and barbaric thinking. The idea that you can suppress someone’s sexuality and still have that person develop into a happy, well-adjusted person, well, there’s very little evidence that that’s possible,” says Catholics for Equality Executive Director Phil Attey.
The Fenway Institute has issued two policy briefs highlighting the importance of gathering data on sexual orientation and gender identity in clinical settings. The statements also provide guidance to clinicians on the best practices to gather this data. Increased data on the LGBT community in a healthcare setting will shed light on LGBT health disparities, and how it is consistent with key recommendations made in the 2011 Institute of Medicine report on LGBT health issues and research gaps. “In order to understand and address LGBT health disparities, we as health care providers need to better understand who our LGBT patients are,” said Stephen Boswell, M.D., President & CEO of Fenway Health. “These policy Iraq War Vet briefs explain why Launches asking these quesCampaign tions is important, Opposing and provide guidance to help cliNH nicians to gather Marriage these data effectiveEquality ly.” The briefs will Repeal be sent to health education profes- Craig Stowell on left, Calvin Stowell on right, and More than sionals, profes- their twin younger brothers. 100,000 people sional associations, have joined a policy makers and Change.org camother priority audiences. paign started by a conservative Iraq war veteran urging the New Hampshire state legislature to defend the freedom to marry for Hartford Catholic Diocese Launches Chastity Program for all couples. Craig Stowell, a Marine and cochair of Standing Up For New Hampshire Gays and Lesbians Families, is leading the campaign urging New Hampshire state legislators to oppose The Archdiocese of Hartford has introContinued on page 24 duced the Courage program, a “spiritual
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From the Editor Welcome to the first official issue of our 30th birthday year! All of us here at Options are looking forward to celebrating this milestone with all of you who have supported and valued this newsmagazine over its many years, and we have some fun ideas in the works – stay tuned. We got off to a great start with our night at the theatre in January. It was a sellout crowd, a fabulous show, and I think everyone had a blast. Thanks so much to 2nd Story Theatre for treating us all to such a wonderful evening. Thanks also to everyone who has sent a contribution in response to the fundraising appeal in our December/January issue. We love the little notes you attach, thanking us, telling us to keep up the good work, or just letting us know that you love
Options. For those who haven’t sent their donation yet, it is not too late! We depend on your support. Please mark your calendar for our next event, a gay comedy night at Catch A Rising Star at Twin River on March 14. Comic Poppy Champlin will be the headliner, and organizer/funny guy Mark Shea promises it will be a very gay night. For more info, write to info@optionsri.org. There are lots of exciting things to look forward to. If you would like to get involved with Options, please write to Emma at info@optionsri.org, and join us in the important, fun effort that goes into creating Rhode Island/Southeastern New England’s LGBTQ community newsmagazine!
Rhode Island’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Newsmagazine Since 1982
February 2012 q Vol. XXX1, No. 1 Managing Director Kim Stowell editor@optionsri.org Writers Thomas Bertrand, Terry Bontrager, Austen Bourassa, Kalene Brennan, Lisa Eramo, Dawn Euer, Kerri Kanelos, Emma Garrett Nelson, Steven Pennell, Joe Siegel, Jennifer Stevens Copy Editors Brian Gay, Steve Kagan, Joseph Morra, Emma Garrett Nelson, Maria Phillips, Jim Seavor, Myra Shays Calendar Editor Annie Cronin Silva calendar@optionsri.org Resources Editor Myra Shays mshays@verizon.net
Volunteer of the Month: Donny McKendall Options is thrilled to have Donny McKendall join us as our new bookkeeper. A graduate of JWU, Donny owns Serv-Pro of South Worcester. He has already begun organizing and streamlining our system, which is way more exciting than it sounds.
of humor, experience and knowledge, and his willingness to help out in so many ways has endeared him to all of us.
Donny also often joins discussions on our web site re-design and other planning sessions. His sense
Donny is in a committed relationship -- sorry, gents!
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Letter To the Editor Growing up as a gay youth in Burrillville, I was the victim of a gay bashing. The incident was a hate crime (which was illegal at the time), but it was not the gay bashing that left me scarred. The local police refused to document this hate crime as such because it would mean they would have to take action against the assailant. What a wake-up call for a 14-year-old to have when he realizes that “To Serve and Protect” was subject to every individual police officer’s own personal judgment. It didn’t matter if the law was on my side. It didn’t matter that I was the one with the battle wounds. It didn’t matter that there were witnesses. The first judge and jury you face in this situation is a police officer, and you better hope that he or she doesn’t have a prejudiced bone. Here I am now, an adult of 31. I just opened a café called Donick’s on Broadway in Newport. Donick’s is located close to the Thompson Middle School and Cranston Calvert Elementary School. It is also right near some of the best restaurants and bars in Newport. As a gay-owned and -operated establishment, a rainbow flag waved proudly all summer. So many people came in just to comment how happy they were to see this beacon in Newport again. Donick’s is open late, so when the bars are at their height, there occasionally are some drunken skiffs. This past summer, a Donick’s employee broke up a fight between two young men and a guy with his girlfriend. The brave employee consequently had to go to the hospital. I took him myself and stayed with him all night. In this
situation, the Newport Police did come to the rescue. However, we have seen instances of that same “To Serve and Protect Who I Choose” attitude from some local officers. All the memories came back to me of that altercation when I was just a lad -- how I felt, how scared I was, how I didn’t think anyone cared, and how I continue to this day to look over my shoulder. I was determined to make Donick’s a safe place for all -- gay or straight. From that point on, Donick’s has been known in the neighborhood as the café that cares. Luckily, we haven’t had to break up any more fights. A sign that reads “NO BULLY ZONE” is clearly placed on the front door and by the cash register. That encompasses a lot of things, from physical violence to verbal or non-verbal confrontations. When folks see that, they often give me the thumbs up. Good people do exist in the community, and I am all about bringing out the best in others. As you may know, anti-bullying groups are popping up all over the country, and we are proud to be one of them.
Civil Union Ceremonies Senator
Donna M. Nesselbush Municipal Court Judge
401-274-7400 ext. 53 401-378-2155 CHILDREN ADOLESCENTS ADULTS
Depression
Lately, Donick’s has been frequented by young couples (maybe on their first date) who feel it is safe to hold hands in Donick’s without shame or ridicule. Times are changing everywhere, and things may be different from when we all grew up, but a stare, menacing or not, can still make a young gay or lesbian feel anxious and self-conscious. Nobody wants to feel that way, and I am here to take a stand. I hope you do too.
ADHD Anxiety Self-esteem Study Skills/ Time Management Relationships/Intimacy
Thank You Nick Maione Newport John D. DaPonte, CAGS
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Calendar Got a big event coming up? Let us know about it! Send your listing by the tenth of the month preceding to calendar@optionsri.org, and we’ll see that it gets into the edition. Public St, Providence. $10 donation at the door. All proceeds will benefit resources and support for the many male sex workers who live on the streets of Providence. Sponsored by AIDS Care Ocean State.
FEBRUARY 2012 1 Trans Partners support group, 7-9 p.m. This group provides life/romantic partners of TGI people with a confidential, safe space to explore the impact of a partner’s identity on their relationships and to connect with other partners. Meeting held in Providence. For more information and location contact partners@tginetwork.org. 1 PFLAG of Greater Providence, 6:45 p.m. The MET School Justice Building, 325 Public St., Providence. www.pflagprovidence. org or call 751-7571 or e-mail pflagprovidence@verizon.net for more information. 2 Project Weber presents a sneak preview of their new documentary, Invisible, filmed in Providence about male sex workers. 7 p.m. The Met School Black Box Theater, 325
Feb. 2 A sneak preview of new documentary Invisible, filmed in Providence about male sex workers. 7 p.m. The Met School Black Box Theater, 325 Public St, Providence.
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COMPASS meeting. New England area female-to-male (FTM) trans support, infor-
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mation and social group. For more information e-mail compassftm@comcast.net. RI Prime Timers – A club to aid and support the aging gay and bisexual man. Social from 4:30-5 p.m., dinner and meeting from 5-7 p.m. $20 per person. See www.riprimetimers.org. Breaking The Code, Feb. 15-19, Nazarian Center’s Forman Theatre at RIC. Wed.-Sat. at 8 p.m., and Sat. and Sun. at 2 p.m. For tickets and information, visit www.ric.edu/ pfa or call the box office at 456-8144. Queer Book Club, 7 p.m. Books on The Square, 241 Angell St., Providence. This month’s book: Portrait of a Marriage by Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson. A discount is available if the book is purchased at Books on the Square. For more information, e-mail queerbookclub@gmail.com. Cupid is Stupid Gay Bingo! The Riviera
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Bingo Palace, 1612 Elmwood Ave., Cranston. Doors open at 6 p.m. Bingo starts at 7 p.m. sharp! $20 for all games. For more information or to be a sponsor, contact Stephen Hartley at 521-3603 or stephenh@ aidscareos.org. COLAGE “Queerspawn,” 10:30 a.m. – 12 noon. For youth and teens, ages 9 and up. This meeting is open only to those who have one or more LGBTQ parents. Beneficent Congregational Church, 300 Weybosset St., Providence. A $5 donation is requested, but no one will be turned away. For more information contact Christie at rhodeisland@colage.org, or visit the website at www.colage.org. RI Pride Honors, 6-9 p.m. The Hope Artiste Village Greenhouse, 1105 Main St., Pawtucket. Pyramid of Pride recipients are Russ & Beth Milham; Spirit recipients are Patricia Baker & Deborah Tevyaw. Rodney Davis’ 20th year with RI Pride will also be honored. Single ticket is $35; couple ticket is $60. See www.ripridehonors.eventbrite. com to purchase tickets. Cheryl Wheeler, 7 p.m. International Tennis Hall of Fame Casino Theatre, 194 Bellevue Avenue, Newport. Tickets: $30/$35/$40. To order call 849-6053 or visit www.tennisfame.com. Mary Janes Ladies Night, The Roots Cultural Center, 276 Westminster St. Providence. 7:30pm. Trivia with Nicool. Live Music. DJ. $5 21+. AIDS Care Ocean State Mardi Gras! 6:30 p.m.-midnight. Providence Biltmore Hotel Grand Ballroom. Enjoy live music by the Coppola Sisters Band, great food and drinks! Tickets are $80. Visit www.aidscareos.org to purchase tickets. Opera Club -- new members welcome! Write to Dave at brettcornellpi4@aol.com for more information. Marriage Equality of RI Community Meeting, 7 p.m., 118 N. Main St., Providence. 941-2727.
Solidifying finances with your partner feels natural. It is your family, after all. We all want financial security for our family. Rizzo Financial Group, an Accredited Domestic Partner Advisor (ADPA), is here for you. With 17 years of wealth management experience, we provide special services to our LGBT community. Call Guy Rizzo at 401.789.8833 or email at rizzofinancialgroup@rfg.necoxmail.com for a complimentary financial review. Let us plan for your blissful years ahead.
Rizzo Financial Group, LLC
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LGBTQ Reception at Gordon School in the Joukowsky Family Library, 5:30 p.m. Join current LGBTQ parents, meet the Director of Diversity and Multicultural Practice, and learn about the academic program and opportunities available. RSVP to admission@ gordonschool.org or 401-434-3833x146. Trans Partners support group, 7-9 p.m. Provides life/romantic partners of TGI people with a confidential, safe space to explore the impact of a partner’s identity on their relationships and to connect with other partners. Meeting held in Providence. For more information and location contact
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Frank Maher at (401) 453-9276, visit RI AGP on Facebook or by email at
n e t w o r k
partners@tginetwork.org. 7 PFLAG of Greater Providence, 6:45 p.m. The MET School Justice Building, 325 Public St., Providence. www.pflagprovidence.org or call 751-7571 or e-mail pflagprovidence@ verizon.net for more information. 9 COMPASS meeting. New England area female-to-male (FTM) trans support, information and social group. For more information e-mail compassftm@comcast.net. 11 RI Prime Timers – A club to aid and support the aging gay and bisexual man. Social from 4:30-5 p.m., dinner and meeting from 5-7 p.m. $20 per person. See www.riprimetimers.org.
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LGBT Comedy Night at Catch A Rising Star, Twin River, Lincoln. With headliner Poppy Champlin will be Ellen Mochetto, Doug Blay, Andrew Williams, John Kelley and Mark Shea. Partial proceeds to benefit Options. 14 LGBT Comedy Night at Catch A Rising Star, at Twin River, Lincoln. With headliner Poppy Champlin will be Ellen Mochetto, Doug Blay, Andrew Williams, John Kelley and Mark Shea. $15. Partial proceeds to benefit Options. Doors open at 7; show starts at 7:30. 18+ venue. For more info, write to info@optionsri.org. 15 Easter Bonnet Gay Bingo! The Riviera Bingo Palace, 1612 Elmwood Ave., Cranston. Doors open at 6 p.m. Bingo starts at 7 p.m. sharp! $20 for all games. For more information or to be a sponsor, contact Stephen Hartley at 521-3603 or stephenh@aidscareos.org. 17 COLAGE “Queerspawn,” 10:30 a.m. – 12 noon. For youth and teens, ages 9 and up. This meeting is open only to those who have one or more LGBTQ parents. Beneficent Congregational Church, 300 Weybosset St., Providence. A $5 donation is requested, but no one will be turned away. For more information contact Christie at rhodeisland@colage.org, or visit the website at www.colage.org. 21 Queer Book Club, 7 p.m. Books on The Square, 241 Angell St., Providence. This month’s book: My Queer War by James Lord. A discount is available if the book is purchased at Books on the Square. For more information, e-mail queerbookclub@ gmail.com. q
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Lesbian Romance with a Side of Italian Family Kim Stowell
On a beautiful sunny day, mild despite the time of year, I drove out to the middle of nowhere, where author Mari SanGiovanni lives. I had read her first book and, hearing that she had another one coming out, contacted her for an interview. She invited me to come to her house, as she wanted to stay close by for her partner, who was ailing. Upon meeting me at the door, dressed in lipstick lesbian attire, she assured me that her killer miniature pinscher, Cindy-Lou-Who (who can be seen on the jacket of both her books), was safely barricaded in another room. She led me through their beautiful home to a deck overlooking a large pond, where we made ourselves comfortable and started to chat. Her new novel, Camptown Ladies, had not come out yet, so I had some trepidation about doing an author interview before reading the book, but Mari’s warm congeniality soon put me at ease.
A little background first, so we know about whom we’re talking. Mari has a day job that is far removed from writing lesbian romance novels. A graduate of RISD, she has a degree in illustration and works in
product design for a large corporation outside Boston. But her long commute to and from work gives her plenty of time to think up plot twists and situations for her characters. “And then, in the evening, I get to sit down and write. It’s like dessert.” (I should add that she created the covers for both her books, making them stand out among the other generic, often amateurish designs the genre is known for.) Originally from North Providence, Mari is the granddaughter of Italian immigrants. Family is terribly important to her, both in her life and in her books. When she entered the manuscript for her previous book, Greetings from Jamaica: Wish you were queer, in a writing contest at Bywater Books, the response she got was, “Well, here’s the thing. We only liked the first ten pages, but we really liked them.” The reason? It was in this portion of the text that she wrote about her big funny Italian fam-
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ily. They suggested she do more of that, and maybe try something zany like sticking them all on an island while her character is trying to romance a love interest. Mari loved the idea, rewrote the whole book in two months, and won the contest. That first book is lesbian romance with a hearty side of Italian family. The lead character sets off on an all-expenses-paid vacation with her family, in part to repair a rift in said family but also to forget an unfaithful lover and a bad rebound mistake. What follows is at times touching and at times downright hilarious, with classic family squabbles, fruity tropical drinks, sun and sand and a healthy serving of sexy situations. The pace is quick, with suspense, heartbreak and a surprise ending thrown in for good measure. This whole book-writing thing started when Mari was 19 and saw the film Desert Hearts. “I had this Oh-my-God feeling! You just really want those two people to get together.” (She was also moved by Ruby Fruit Jungle by Rita Mae Brown, which reminded her of To Kill a Mockingbird, but she laments that Brown has taken to writing about cats. “Rita! What happened?” she yelled off the deck into the gathering evening.) What impressed her about Desert Hearts was the gut-wrenching feeling she got while watching the story unfold, and she wished lesbian books could be like that too. Realizing that there were too few really good les-
bian fiction writers, she set out to try her hand at it herself. She wanted to tell a great story, she said, and didn’t mind getting a little outrageous here and there. “I don’t want to make people wince, but I like making someone say, ‘Wow, I can’t believe she went there!’” The love story is at the heart of both of her books. “I like a strong love story,” she said, “but I don’t want to
know where it’s going. At least make it fun. And make it a happy ending. I like happy endings.” Mari is somewhat humbled to say that she has a following now. The web site AfterEllen.com endorsed her first book, and she got a funny, back-handed promotion of it from Howard Stern, who said on his show that he would never read the book but appreciated that she mentioned him in it and
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I asked her what had changed. She thought about it for about three seconds before answering, “Everything.” She told me the story of Kim’s last days, how Mari devised a chart for Kim’s care, only to have
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Mari’s story is not complete without talking about her partner of 12 years, Kim Amylon. A city editor at the Warwick Beacon for many years, Kim helped edit Mari’s work and generally played the role of partner in crime and life. It was clear that Mari adored her. A survivor of breast cancer three years ago, Kim was diagnosed anew, this time with lung cancer, in early 2011, and died at home in December. When I met Mari for the interview, Kim was still with us, sitting outside on another deck, enjoying the autumn sun while passing the time with Mari’s sister, who lives in an apartment adjacent to the house. After hearing that Kim had passed, I asked Mari if she’d meet me again, and she consented to get a pizza with me at the Indigo Lounge in Coventry.
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so everyone should go out and get a copy. Some marketing breaks also sent her book to #1 on Amazon, resulting in substantial book sales and garnering her many fans, every single one of whom she seems to treasure. You feel as if she just deserves to be successful after all her hard work and her appreciation of the success she’s had to date.
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AIDS Care Ocean State presents...
Mardi Gras
Saturday, February 25, 2012 at the Providence Biltmore Hotel Grand Ballroom 6:30 p.m. until Midnight Tickets are $80.00 Enjoy live music by the Coppola Sisters Band, delectable cuisine, and delightful libations...
To purchase tickets, please visit www.aidscareos.org or call 401-521-3603
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it dubbed “Nurse Ratchett’s Chart” by the family, the nurses, and Kim herself. She told me how she wondered, in the immediate aftermath of Kim’s passing, whether she would ever find anything funny again.
I have a good feeling about Mari’s next book, knowing it will come from a place deep within her soul. (The event that restored her faith in her own sense of humor is too long to tell here, but it was wickedly funny.) As you might imagine, her family saw her through. “My sister,” she said, “kept me alive.” And, in a most unexpected moment, Mari came up with the idea for her next book. “I was driving along, thinking about Kim,” she said, “and all of a sudden it hit me. I called my publisher and told her my idea, and she put it right on the schedule.” I have a good feeling about that next book, knowing it will come from a place deep within Mari SanGiovanni’s soul. And trust me, it will be funny too. Camptown Ladies and Greetings from Jamaica: Wish you were queer are available through Mari’s web site, www.MariSanGiovanni.com or your local bookseller. q
Mari (pronounced “Mary”), right, and Kim at a wedding in St. Thomas last year.
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Choosing a School (continued from page 1) LGBT community, then the kids will think their family is not good or their family is not valued. It has to be proactive,” says Baird. The Gordon School includes a total of 407 students in nursery school through the 8th grade. Nine of these students have samesex parents, says Kimberly T. Ridley, director of diversity and multicultural practice.
you are, says Philip Hall, director of diversity programs at Wheeler. If a biological girl has and expresses a male gender identity, he says, “That’s absolutely fine. That child will be accepted and supported,” he says. By the time students reach middle and upper school levels, the school’s curriculum is infused with diversity topics. “The curriculum was deliberately set up to make sure that our kids have the conversations and instruction around diversity issues that we can’t guarantee they would get otherwise,” says Hall, who also teaches “Unity and Diversity,” a mandatory course for all students in grades 6-9.
Ridley says when she began working for the school three years ago, she made it a priority to better understand the needs of LGBT parents and their children. She, along with some of the diversity comTeachers at mittee members, Wheeler School conducted focus have also attended groups with stuformal and infordents and parents, mal trainings to solicited feedback - Philip Hall, Wheeler School’s help them better from 7th and 8th understand LGBT graders via a quesissues. “We’ve had director of diversity programs tionnaire about frequent convertheir attitudes tosations over the ward the LGBT years about becommunity, and ing a straight ally, even visited other what that means, and why it’s important,” schools to learn more about how to address says Hall. In addition, the middle and upper inequities. school grade levels at Wheeler host a dayIn 2010, parents and students partici- long workshop to discuss diversity topics. pated in Navigating Gender Identity in Safe Most of the workshops are peer-facilitated Schools, a year-long education series during by juniors and seniors, says Hall. which parents attended presentations and Focusing on LGBT inclusion in schools discussed LGBT-themed books and videos, is important because LGBT youth are at a such as And Tango Makes Three and That’s a much higher risk for being bullied and are Family! Ridley collaborated with Dr. Jennifer therefore likely to fall behind academically, Bryan, a psychologist and nationally recogsays Jaye Watts, direct services coordinator nized education consultant, to conduct the for Youth Pride, Inc. (YPI) “They’re not training that she says has paved the way for able to learn at the same speed as the kids open conversations and greater sensitivity. around them when they’re in a victimized “We try to show that knowledge is some- situation,” he says. thing that comes from different perspectives YPI recently referred two high school and different people’s experiences—not just students to the Metropolitan Regional Cafrom one dominant truth,” says Ridley. reer and Technical Center (Met School), a At the Wheeler School in Providence, state-funded public school district and lodiscussions of gender identity, diversity, and cal education agency that serves 690 high family configuration are also incorporated school students in six small schools across into the nursery curriculum. The school, three campuses in Rhode Island. As with which includes 813 students in nursery many LGBT youth, the two students reschool through 12th grade, actively reiter- ferred to the Met School had both been ates the message that it’s okay to be who bullied because of their sexual orientation.
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“They were so far behind academically and emotionally that switching to the super-supportive and contained environment at the Met really helped them to thrive,” says Watts.
says, adding that the audience applauded her afterwards. “I felt so validated and really like I belonged in that space.”
Unlike the high school she previously attended, Tanner describes School One as laid-back and one in which self-expression is encouraged. “I was not seen as different. I was seen as an integral A Gordon student takes part in part of what makes the an exercise about diversity in gen- School One community colorful and wonderful,” der roles. she says.
Kerri Kanelos, executive director of YPI, says when she previously worked at YouthWORKS411, she often referred LGBT youth to Beacon Charter High School for the Arts in Woonsocket. “We saw several of our LGBT students thrive in that environment as well,” she says.
Tanasith Martineau, a 2009 graduate of School One in Providence, says although he struggled internally with his sexuality throughout high school, the support he received from students, faculty, administration, and parents at the school helped him to eventually come out as gay. “I am proud to be an alumnus, donor, volunteer, and member of a community that not only saved my education, but saved me from a foreseen if not predictable tragedy,” says Martineau, who is currently a sophomore at Green Mountain College in Poultney, Vermont. “Had I not gone there, I don’t know where I’d be currently.” Jessica Tanner, a 1998 graduate of School One, agrees. Tanner was 16 years old when she formally came out in front of the entire school during a school community meeting. “I did not plan to come out in the meeting, but another student had also stood up and introduced himself and said he was gay, so I got the courage to do the same,” she
The schools mentioned in this article are certainly not the only LGBT-positive schools in Rhode Island. There are many more schools—both public and private—doing good work in this area, say Watts and Kanelos. When evaluating schools, consider these questions:
it values diversity and inclusion … but how does it actually play out in the daily experience at the school?” he says, adding LGBT parents should definitely take a tour of the campus and talk with other LGBT parents before making a decision. Some schools even offer open houses specifically for LGBT parents. • Does the curriculum include discussions about sexual orientation and gender identity? How does it address these topics at the nursery and elementary school levels? • What social and other opportunities are there for LGBT parents? For example, at the Gordon School, LGBT families are assigned a mentor family. Baird and her partner were assigned to another lesbian couple whose son was in one of their son’s classes and who also had an older child who had been attending the school. “That was wonderful. It gave us a connection,” she says.
• Does the school use the safe school kit • How does provided by the Gay, the school show its Lesbian & Straight support of the LGBT Education Network community? “A lot of schools are comfort- Parents attend a workshop on diversity at (https://safespace. glsen.org/)? If so, able supporting fami- Gordon School how? Kanelos says the lies in a really generic Rhode Island Departway,” says Baird. ment of Education purchased a kit for each Hall agrees. “Pretty much every school middle and high school throughout the is going to say in its mission statement that state in September. q
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Michael Gardiner Challenges Langevin Joe Siegel
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Contact Kyle at advertising@optionsri.org
Michael Gardiner, a Providence resident, is challenging U.S. Representative James Langevin (D) in this year’s election. Gardiner, 50, is a moderate Republican who supports marriage equality and LGBT civil rights. Gardiner grew up in a family of six children in a working class neighborhood in Cranston. He is a graduate of Cranston High School East, studied history at the University of Rhode Island, and
“I publicly supported marriage equality before Congressman James Langevin, despite opposition within my own party.”
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then attended Western New England College, where he obtained a law degree. An attorney with his own practice, Gardiner has represented parties in state and federal Court, has tried cases before juries in civil and criminal cases and argued before the Rhode Island Supreme Court. He says practicing law has been rewarding, and that he has an “instinct for fairness and justice.” According to Gardiner, Langevin, now serving his sixth term in Congress, has been too partisan. Gardiner points to a December 13 press release regarding a National Defense report in which Langevin scorned Republicans. “It’s not productive, constructive, or honest,” Gardiner said, adding that Langevin was too closely aligned with Democratic leaders. “I don’t believe in partisanship,” Gardiner explained. “Congressman Langevin’s service is profoundly affected by partisanship to the point he doesn’t really have a brand himself to follow. He really hasn’t led, and he was invisible during the events leading up to the financial crisis that led to the current recession.”
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The Journey Out is Ready to “Come Out” to a School near You The Journey Out, a play based on the personal stories of local LGBTQ Rhode Islanders and individuals from Southeastern Massachusetts, is ready to “come out” to local schools this spring. The play – which is set in a disco, a church and an AIDS support group – is a celebration of love, faith and courage; of women and men who fought and struggled for their right to live openly, to live without shame -- to live authentically. The Journey Out presents in dramatic form the ongoing exploration of the struggle for full inclusion and equality in society on behalf of all people, specifically members of the LGBTQ community.
Recently the play was filmed for inclusion in a civics curriculum for schools interested in exploring, in an educational setting, the major issues surrounding youth in gen-
eral, but more specifically LGBTQ youth – bullying, teen suicides, same-sex families, equality and the current theme of “it gets better.” A study guide and resource packets are being prepared to accompany the film. Additionally, a free 40-minute live performance version of the play is available to area high schools on Friday mornings from late February through mid-May 2012. The play and the supporting curriculum materials also provide a historical context for the lives of the people whose stories are being shared as well as a starting point for guided student research about these eras. Discrimination in housing and employment, harassment in the workplace and in public, the fight for the right to march, for parents to keep their children – these are some of the historical changes captured in the stories being told.
Over the past two years, over 75 older members of the LGBTQ community from Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts have been interviewed. Fifteen of those personal stories were chosen for inclusion in the play, with five actors playing all the parts. The Journey Out is divided into five sections, dealing with issues that arose out of the interviews: When Did You Know? Coming Out, God, AIDS and the ongoing issues surrounding current topics.
The staging of the play is very simple and adaptable to any space. The intent is to show today’s youth who are confronted with bullying and who are struggling with their sexual/gender identity that they are not alone. Additionally, for fellow students, teachers, relatives, friends and neighbors who are supportive, the play provides a deeper understanding of what it means to be gay in today’s world.
The production, which premiered in October 2010 at the URI/ Feinstein Providence Campus, was a tremendous success, and calls came immediately from the community to tour. Since then the show has been performed at Pilgrim High School, Mt. Hope High School, Beacon Charter School, URI/Kingston Campus (for the LGBTQQI Symposium), the Provincetown Theatre and again at URI/Providence during Pride month.
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These stories have been digitally recorded and transcribed. The digital files, transcribed interviews and an amazing trove of memorabilia (clippings, photographs, and artifacts) will become the Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts LGBTQ Collection housed in the
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URI Library Archive to be available for further study and research. The process of interviewing is continuing for those interested in sharing their stories, photographs, clippings and artifacts from their journey out. This project was funded by the URI Providence Student Government Board,
A free 40-minute live performance version of the play is available to area high schools on Friday mornings from late February through mid-May.
older Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender people who had been at the Stonewall Riots in June 1969. RISD’s Peter Hocking, Pennell and Toti then gathered and trained the additional interviewers. Pennell began contacting LGBTQ people who might be willing to share their stories and those who might have additional contacts willing to be interviewed. For some LGBTQ people, it was too threatening to be public; for some it was a painful journey into the past; and for others it was a celebratory dance of liberation and joy. There is humor and joy in the gathered
stories as there is for Pennell and Toti, who grew up just streets apart in Cranston, leaving the area for work but also to find and accept themselves as gay men. Then twenty years later both men returned to Cranston, met and fell in love. As with the gathered stories, there were many potholes and pitfalls in Pennell and Toti’s own journey out, but there have been and continue to be glorious sunrises and sunsets to mark the days ahead. For information on the project contact Steven Pennell at 277-5206 or uri.artsandculture@gmail.com. q
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An older woman coming out to her mother on Rhode Island Independence Day receives her own surprise in return. A young Italian man’s mother wants to take him to see a priest after she finds out. A young girl sees her future in the flying joy of Mary Martin as Peter Pan. Some of the people were embraced on their journey to liberation while others lost friends, families and their faith. The cast includes Cynthia Glinick, Chuck Lafond, Steven Pennell, Frank Toti and Clare Vadeboncoeur. The Journey Out was written and directed by Frank Toti from months of interviews conducted by seven oral historians as part of a project conceived and supervised by Steven Pennell of the Urban Arts and Culture Program at URI/Feinstein CCE. The project began in January 2010, six years after Pennell and Toti attended a Pride Parade in New York and saw a trolley full of
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Voices Our Civil Union Terry Bontrager and Louis Verdelotti According to a Providence Journal article (11/23/11), by late November 2011 only 39 Rhode Island couples had chosen to take advantage of the civil unions law passed by the General Assembly in July of last year. We constitute one of those couples. We are both over 60 years old, and issues such as establishing next-of-kin status are important to us as we think about health decisions, wills, and similar matters. We are in our 14th year of living together, and we saw the civil union law as one that could make a difference in our lives. We are from different Christian traditions, yet we have learned to be supportive of each other’s beliefs while remaining true to our own. We attend different churches for worship, but we also attend together more social functions at both churches, and we have found acceptance from both congregations. Louis’ church is very conservative, still struggling, for instance, with the ordination of women. Terry’s church is more progressive, having a husband-andwife couple as its pastors and having established itself as open and affirming. For the
civil union ceremony, we decided to go with Terry’s church, Beneficent Congregational Church, United Church of Christ; the pastors decided that Rev. Nicole Grant-Yonkman would officiate.
the choir loft, a space that allowed for a focal point at the front and accommodated our number of guests. It also permitted use of the church organ.
“In the eyes of this church, and in the hearts of this community, Louis and Terry are joined together in Holy Union.”
Though Beneficent had previously held commitment ceremonies, ours was its first fully legal civil union. Pastor Nicole welcomed the opportunity to create a service that would be meaningful to us as well as to our guests. She provided us with examples of commitment ceremonies to build on, and we added elements that had special meaning for us. For instance, Louis wanted to use as a center of focus a statue of Mary that his grandmother had given to him. We each had a favorite hymn that we incorporated as the processional and the recessional.
Finding an appropriate space in the church presented a different problem. Beneficent’s historic meetinghouse seats 500 people. But we anticipated a gathering of only 30 to 40 people. In the end, we chose
We were pleased that our families were supportive. Because both families are strongly opposed to gay marriage, it worked in our favor that ours was a civil union.
The ceremony itself was short, yet beautiful. It consisted of a tinge of pageantry, a bit of ritual, and a fair amount of simplicity. Pastor Nicole gave a moving homily about love and acceptance. Then she declared that “in the eyes of this church, and in the hearts of this community, Louis and Terry are joined together in Holy Union.” The love and support we felt that day was overwhelming. And though our commitment to each remains the same, we experience a calm assurance knowing that our union was not only recognized publicly, but it is accepted as legal. q
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Project PrEP Talk A pill a day might help prevent HIV … men are being sought for a significant new research study. Most HIV prevention efforts for gay not have insurance to cover the costs. With and bisexual men have focused on changing the chances of side effects and high costs, people’s behavior – for instance: not having will HIV-negative people actually use these sex, increasing condom use, getting tested drugs? And if they are interested in taking regularly for HIV, and being in monoga- PrEP, what information will they need to mous relationships. But what if people who make informed decisions? worry about HIV could take a daily pill to The research team at the Miriam Hospireduce their risk of infection? Recent scien- tal and Yale University is working to study tific studies have suggested that this might how people will make decisions about uswork. Studies conducted ing PrEP drugs to prevent in the United States and To understand what HIV. A drug trial can tell abroad have found that sevus whether PrEP pills work, eral antiretroviral drugs – people really want, we but it can’t tell us whether drugs that are usually used people will really want to to treat HIV infection – can need to ask you about use them. To understand actually reduce the risk of what people really want, getting infected if people your issues or concerns we need to ask you about take them regularly. This your issues or concerns, strategy is called PrEP, or your hopes for PrEP, and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, because people the effects PrEP might have on your lives. take the drugs before they are exposed to With funds from the National Institutes of HIV through unprotected sex. Health, we are now interviewing gay and These scientific studies might mean a major change in the way we think about and work toward preventing HIV. The Centers for Disease Control has already released guidelines to help physicians prescribe these drugs for gay and bisexual men who have an ongoing risk of HIV infection. But PrEP isn’t a perfect strategy: the pills may cause side effects; people may not want (or be able) to take them every day; and it might be expensive, especially for people who do
bisexual men in the Rhode Island area to find out what they think about PrEP drugs. We’re starting by interviewing men in small groups, so that people can bounce ideas off one another and brainstorm about how PrEP might work (or not work) for them. Later, we’ll interview men individually to get more detailed information about their thoughts. We’ll be recruiting for this study for about three years, and we hope that our findings will help us make PrEP and other
HIV prevention strategies a real option for people who can benefit. If you’re interested in getting involved with our work, or if you want to find out more, let us know by emailing ProjectPrepTalk@gmail.com. You can find more information about PrEP on the CDC website: www.cdc.gov/hiv/prep/pdf/PrEPfactsheet. pdf. q
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The Imperial Court of Rhode Island The Imperial Court of RI Accepting Scholarship Applications
You’ve tried the Rest...
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The two big qualifications for potential applicants are that they must be teen-aged or young adult residents of Rhode Island or Southern Massachusetts (Worcester, Norfolk, Suffolk and Bristol Counties). Also, either the applicant or applicant’s parent(s)/guardian(s) must identify as LGBTQ.
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In 2010, the Imperial Court of RI (ICRI) announced that it would award a scholarship to a qualified applicant in April 2012. It is now 2012! ICRI is in search of students (or prospective students) who are interested in applying for this initial scholarship of $500.
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All applications will be scored blindly. Financial status will not be considered for this award. Applicants will be required to write an essay detailing how growing up in the LGBTQ community has influenced their plans for studies and/or career choices. Applicants should also detail pertinent volunteer work and plans to give back to the
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community. For more information on the ICRI scholarship, or for an application and complete guidelines, please email: icri.prov@gmail.com. All applications must be submitted in full by March 1. ICRI strongly encourages all potential applicants to submit an email expressing interest as early in February as possible to allow time for essay writing and material gathering.
ICRI Calls for Committee Members ICRI is in search of four volunteers who would be interested in sitting on the committee to help decide which qualified applicant will be this year’s scholarship recipient. ICRI is especially looking for two educators who would be willing to take part in this endeavor. To be considered for a volunteer position on the committee, please email: icri. prov@gmail.com. All those interested are encouraged to be in touch as soon as possible to allow time to schedule review meetings of application packets. q
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Marriage Equality Rhode Island (MERI) was among a group of organizations that respectfully asked Treasurer Raimondo to return the award and condemn the hateful positions promoted by the Manhattan Institute. Instead of returning the award, she defended her association with the Institute by saying: “Accepting an award from any organization is never an across-the-board endorsement of its leanings.” But that just misses our point.
in case you were wondering). MERI has been asked to be part of the host committee. We’ll be helping to design panels and events that help bloggers, online organizers, social justice advocates, union workers, organizational leaders, college organizers and other activists understand and expand the work for LGBTQ equality. If you’d like to help, please contact us. February begins the serious work of the RI General Assembly. MERI will be at the State House advocating for a host of bills about marriage equality and divorce, as well as advocating for the removal of the overly broad, discriminatory language in our current civil unions law, the much talked about “Corvese Amendment.” Be prepared to heed the call.
Standing for equality and fairness means refusing to stand next to ignorance and hatred. Her close association with this organization could be interpreted by many as implicit acceptance of all their positions, not just those related to public pensions.
MERI’s second monthly Community Meeting will be held on Feb 27th at 7 p.m. in our offices at 118 North Main St. in Providence. Find out more about what MERI’s doing, and what you can do to help bring marriage equality to Rhode Island. Come be a part of something great.
In other news, Netroots Nation, the country’s largest conference of progressive, politically active and technologically savvy professionals is coming to Providence, June 7 to 10 (that’s the weekend before RI Pride,
Sign up to receive email alerts at our website http://www.marriageequalityri.org or join us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/MERhodeIsland or look for our posts on rilgbt-news@listserv.brown.edu. q
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You may have heard about our recent letter to R.I. General Treasurer Gina Raimondo requesting that she return an award from The Manhattan Institute, an extremist right wing group based in New York that promotes offensive, ignorant and hurtful positions towards the LGBTQ community, women, minorities, and our environment.
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AIDS Community Watch
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APRI Invites the LGBTQ Community to Participate in Dining Out for Life April 26
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Please mark your calendars for April 26, to enjoy AIDS Project Rhode Island’s (APRI) annual fundraiser, Dining Out For Life (DOFL). This year we expect over fifty restaurants in Rhode Island to join us in supporting efforts to prevent HIV and provide services for people living with HIV/ AIDS. On the night of the event, these restaurants generously donate up to 25% of their proceeds to APRI. Our goal is to get as many restaurants on board as possible, and fill them with diners on April 26! Do you want to help make this the best DOFL year ever? Here are ways you can be a part of it: 1) If you or somebody you know has a connection with any Rhode Island restaurant, please let us know. We will work with you to reach out to the restaurant and invite them to join us. 2) Become a liaison between APRI and one of our restaurants and their guests. 2) Go out to eat at one of our participating restaurants on April 26 and bring your friends and family!
Look for her monthly updates on YouTube coming soon! To help her mount her campaign, visit http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/43222861/the-first-lady-of-comedy-isrunning-for-president Madame’s Place 10580 No McCarran Blvd. Ste @ 115 - # 217 Reno, Nevada 89503
To learn more, contact Amy Stein at Amy@aidsprojectri.org, or check out our website (www.aidsprojectri.org) to learn about DOFL.
Get Out and Get Tested at ACOS Kalene Brennan ACOS offers free, anonymous and confidential HIV and HEP C testing at our Pre-
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vention Center now located at 557 Broad Street in Providence. Make it your New Year’s resolution to get tested and know your status. Look for our testing cards and free condom buckets at your local bar. For testing times and additional testing locations, or to schedule an appointment, please call our Prevention Unit at 781-0665 or email info@aidscareos.org.
ACOS Honors Top Three Philanthropists of 2011 Each fall, AIDS Care Ocean State (ACOS) recognizes key individuals who have supported the agency through fundraising, volunteerism and community outreach. They are honored both at the Association of Fundraising Professionals National Philanthropy Day, and at ACOS’s Mardi Gras masquerade on February 25. This year, ACOS will honor Richard Brisson and Philip Falzarano, owners of PharmaHealth Pharmacy, and Allen Price, as the 2011 Philanthropists of the Year. Brisson and Falzarano have ensured that corporate giving is still alive and well through their continuous support of the LGBT community. PharmaHealth is a major sponsor at many of our events and fundraisers. They also work closely with our case management team to ensure our clients are adhering to their medications. PharmaHealth Pharmacy offers our clients several ways their medications can be obtained free of charge. With the rising costs of medication, this is an invaluable service to the clients of ACOS. Our next Philanthropist of the year, Allen Price, has been a volunteer at ACOS since July 2011. Each week he goes to Sun-
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rise House, our assisted living facility, to handle all aspects of the landscaping, creating a home-like environment for our clients. Director of Sunrise House Linda Hays calls us every week to rave about Allen’s talents and how wellmaintained Sunrise House has become thanks to Allen’s gardening. Allen goes on his own accord, often bringing his own supplies to Sunrise House, and stays until he thinks everything looks beautiful. Allen is making small but significant changes to ACOS, and we greatly appreciate what he does. On behalf of the entire staff of AIDS Care Ocean State, we extend our deepest thanks to Richard Brisson, Philip Falzarano and Allen Price for their dedication and support of our programs and services. At right: Brisson and Falzarano; Below: Allen Price. munity than with a masquerade! This year, we will be honoring our 2011 Partners in Philanthropy, and will also recognize Haley Star and YouTube sensation Davey Wavey for their dedication to the community and extraordinary fundraising efforts. Haley Star and Davey Wavey played an integral role in raising funds for the annual AIDS Walk for Life to benefit ACOS, and we are delighted to honor them at Mardi Gras.
Get Ready for Mardi Gras! The most outrageous party of 2012 is fast approaching! ACOS Mardi Gras Masquerade will take place on Saturday, February 25 at the Providence Biltmore Hotel’s Grand Ballroom. Mardi Gras is an essential ACOS fundraiser. Complete with dramatic costumes, live music by the Coppola Sisters Band, delectable cuisine and delightful libations, the event consistently draws throngs of attendees and continues to grow each year. What better way to celebrate and support the com-
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We invite you to join in the excitement of Mardi Gras by becoming a sponsor of the event. Sponsorships are an excellent way to promote your business or product to a diverse group of people who are committed to supporting the local community. Another way to support ACOS is to advertise in our program book. It is a terrific opportunity to speak directly to a heavily targeted audience. Of course, we hope you will join us on February 25 to eat, drink, and dance the night away! For more information about sponsorships and advertising, please contact Stephen Hartley or Kalene Brennan at 5213603. We look forward to seeing everyone in his or her best Mardi Gras garb on February 25! q
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Gardiner continued from page 15 Currently, Rhode Island has the third highest unemployment rate in the country. Gardiner believes the high rate of foreclosures is hurting homeowners. One solution is to allow people to negotiate financial terms with the banks so they can stay in their homes longer. Gardiner believes that both political parties have failed on this issue. Gardiner would support the repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) if elected. He believes same-sex couples should be allowed to make legal commitments to each other, adding it was not the federal government’s role to obstruct same-sex marriages. “I publicly supported marriage equality before Congressman James Langevin, despite opposition within my own party,” Gardiner noted. “Congressman Langevin’s movement on that issue can be viewed more as a defensive political reaction rather than leadership.” Gardiner also would vote to pass ENDA (Employment Non-Discrimination Act). The challenge for Gardiner is to win the Republican nomination in September. Michael Riley, a hedge fund manager from Narragansett, has also announced his candidacy. Gardiner is not impressed by Riley’s candidacy, saying he lacks experience, and he voiced his disagreement with Riley’s write-in campaign strategy. Gardiner plans to run a strong campaign. He has been using social media to communicate his message of change. For more information, visit www.gardinerforcongress.com. q
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News Briefs continued from page 3 the marriage equality repeal. Craig started the campaign for his openly gay brother, Calvin. “When I enlisted in the Marines, I took an oath to defend freedom and liberty, and now I’m defending my brother’s freedom here at home,” said Stowell. “When my wife Berta and I were married, Calvin was right there by my side as my best man. I want the opportunity to be his best man when he finds the person he wants to marry.” Recent polls have shown that 62% of New Hampshire residents support marriage equality. In response to an inquiry from the Washington Blade about the attempted repeal, White House spokesperson Shin Inouye said “The record is clear that [President Obama] has long opposed divisive and discriminatory efforts to deny rights and benefits to same-sex couples. The president believes strongly in stopping laws designed to take rights away.”
Marriage Equality Momentum in 2012? 2012 promises to be an interesting year for the marriage equality movement. In a January State of the State address, Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper called on the State Legislature to pass civil unions during the 2012 legislative cycle. In Illinois, a group of legislators and civil rights organizations have started organizing with a goal of introducing marriage equality legislation in 2013. The Maryland legislature will take up marriage equality again this year, with support from Gov. Martin O’Malley. In New Jersey, Senate President Stephen Sweeney and Assembly Speaker Sheila Oliver introduced legislation to recognize existing civil unions as marriages. The Washington State Senate is
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just two votes shy of the majority needed to pass marriage equality. The bill has the full support of Gov. Christine Gregoire and the WA House of Representatives. Closer to home, Maine marriage equality activists have collected nearly twice the number of signatures needed to secure a ballot initiative to bring marriage equality back to the state. In New Hampshire marriage may be in jeopardy, facing a legislative vote on a repeal of the 2009 marriage equality law. New Hampshire Gov. John Lynch has said he will protect marriage equality and veto the measure. In the Ocean State, Marriage Equality Rhode Island will work to repeal the “Corvese Amendment” to RI’s civil union legislation. The amendment allows institutions and businesses with a religious affiliation to ignore the legal rights associated with a civil union.
Lesbian of Color Symposium Comes to MA The Hispanic Black Gay Coalition (HBGC) has announced its first ever Lesbians of Color Symposium to be held on March 3rd at Harvard Law School in Cambridge, MA. The symposium will be co-hosted by Harvard Law School Lambda. The event will include a series of workshops led by regionally and nationally recognized facilitators of color. “Embracing diversity is essential for empowering and uniting women of color,” says Shaunya Thomas, an HBGC Board member. The symposium’s keynote speaker is social justice advocate Mandy Carter, member of the Democratic National Committee’s Black Caucus, and the DNC’s Gay and Lesbian Caucus. For more information, email lesbiansymposium@hbgc-boston.org.q
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Rhode Island Pride Each year RI Pride celebrates the achievements of outstanding members of the community. This celebration, formerly known as “The Spotlight Awards” and now entitled “Rhode Island Pride Honors” is a tribute to Rhode Island’s LGBT Community and provides a special opportunity to recognize those individuals, businesses and organizations that have made contributions to the community and RI Pride. Rhode Island Pride Honors will be held in The Greenhouse of the Hope Artiste Village – in the same building home to our wonderful new Pride Center. The evening will feature surprise presenters and entertainment as well as downtime for our guests to enjoy the wonderful food donated by our restaurant sponsors, as well as libations, and good company. Here’s a little more information about this celebration and who we are honoring.
Mark your calendar q
March 14 q
LGBT Comedy Night! at Catch A Rising Star Twin River
h Headliner: Poppy Champlin witEllen Mochetto, Doug Blay, Andrew Williams, John Kelley and Mark Shea
On February 19th Rhode Island Pride Honors.....
• Pyramid of Pride recipients Russ and Beth Milham. Russ and Beth have dedicated decades to the LGBT community through their efforts cultivating and maintaining AIDS Quilt RI, founding the Straight But Not Narrow Coalition and their committed fight for Marriage Equality. • Spirit Award recipients Patricia Baker & Deborah Tevyaw. The community lost a truly spirited fighter when Pat Baker succumbed to lung cancer earlier this year. She and wife Deb Tevyaw spent Pat’s last months battling RI lawmakers for the protections they, and all Rhode Island families, deserve. Deb tirelessly continues the fight in Pat’s honor. Sponsorships at the $100, $250, and $500 levels are available for individuals and businesses and will be recognized during the celebration. To take advantage of this sponsorship, please email contact information and business logo (if applicable) to jennifer.stevens@prideri. com to confirm your sponsorship. We thank you in advance for your attendance at an event that demonstrates our supporters’ commitment to the LGBT community! q
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• Rodney Davis’ 20th Pride. It’s impossible to imagine Rhode Island Pride without our fearless leader who has devoted so much of his life to creating opportunities for the RI gay community to become more visible, integrated, accepted and united. His service to the community and impact on vital issues are immeasurable. After 20 years, a celebration and resounding “Thank You” are in order!
JDHSPHOTOS.COM 401.624.6698 JDHSPhotos@verizon.net
JDHS Photos 2012
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Youth Pride, Inc.
• CLASSIFIEDS • • CLASSIFIEDS •
Kerri Kanelos
Got an apartment to rent? Condo to sell? Looking for a housemate? Send us 30 words and a check for $30, and we’ll publish it in the next issue.
GSA Conference Save the Date! Our annual Gay/Straight Alliance Conference will be held on Saturday, March 24th, 2012. The annual conference is an opportunity for youth (ages 13-23), GSA advisors, and supportive educators to network, collaborate, and learn about topics related to LGBTQQ youth and education. Please visit our website (www.youthprideri.org) soon for more information about the location of the conference, workshop topics, and registration details.
Send ad to advertising@optionsri.org; payment to P.O. Box 6406, Providence, RI 02940. • housing ads only •
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND, CANADA. A private, romantic getaway cottage, ideal for couple. Enjoy panoramic waterfront property on 10acre compound. June to September. Weekly $950. Anne, 401-580-7255 or anne2817@cox.net
Make your community Stronger
VOLUNTEER.
Workshop Presenters Needed At our last community meeting, YPI staff asked for feedback from youth about future programs and workshops. Youth expressed an interest in many topics that we scheduled right away (improv comedy, queer pop culture, cooking classes, etc.) but there are a few topics where we need some help from the community! Do you, or someone you know, have experience in one of the following topics and are willing to present a workshop about it: voguing, creative writing, self defense, how to make your own clothing/fashion design, drag, or résumé writing? Most of our workshops are held on weeknights after 5:30pm or on Saturdays between 10:00am and 5:00pm. Please contact Elana Rosenberg, our GSA/Programming Coordinator, at elana@ youthprideri.org or 421-5626 if you are interested. q Youth Pride, Inc. 743 Westminster Street, Providence 421-5626 www.youthprideri.org
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Reach our desirable audience.
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advertising@optionsri.org
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Resources
Help us help you: If you come across a resource listing that is incorrect or needs updating, let us know. Drop us a line at mshays@verizon.net. Please note: All phone numbers are in the (401) area code unless otherwise indicated.
AA: Brothers in Sobriety, Community Church of Prov., Wayland & Lloyd Aves., Prov., 751-9328; Sat., 7:30-8:30 p.m.; Central Services, info on all groups, 438-8860; Lesbian and Gay, Anchor Recovery Center, 249 Main St., Pawtucket, Tues. 7:30 p.m.; Suburban Gay & Lesbian, Fatima Shrine, Rt. 126, Holliston, MA, Thurs. 8-9:30 p.m.
Comprehensive Community Action Programs (CCAP) Medical, mental health, dental, social services. 311 Doric Ave., Cranston. 467-9610. Also Coventry and Warwick. Sarah Bowman, LGBT Outreach. Crossroads RI Health Care Services: Free, confidential, anonymous HIV counseling & testing for homeless/at risk: Mon & Wed, 1-3 p.m., call Gloria, 521-2255, Ext. 325.
Alcohol/Drug Helpline. RI Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence, 24-hr., (866) 252-3784.
FACTS (Family AIDS Center for Treatment & Support): See AIDS Care Ocean State.
Gay Al-Anon: Tues. 7:30 p.m., Congregational Church, 71 Park Place, Pawtucket, 726-2800.
Gabriel Care, LLC: Nursing/social worker case mgmt. & financial compensation for assistance and supervision for those living with HIV. MA Health funded for MA residents. Michael (508) 678-1002.
AIDS/Health Resources Afia Center for Health & Wholeness: socializing with other HIV+ individuals. Meals, food pantry, HIV support groups, recovery groups, recreational and social activities. Wed & Thurs, noon to 4 p.m., at Matthewson St. Church, 134 Matthewson St., Prov. Sponsored by AIDS Project RI; free to clients. Gordon Cooper, 331-1350 Ext. 3268 or coopergo@familyserviceofri.org. AIDS Action Hotline: (800) 235-2331, MA only. AIDS Care Ocean State: case mgmt., emergency funds, mental health & nutrition support, FACTS Nursery, housing for PWAs, referrals, advocacy, ADa.m.S Clinic for adolescents, street outreach, ENCORE, education, HIV+ support groups. Sunrise Community Housing for people with HIV/AIDS. 18 Parkis Ave., Prov. 02907. 521-3603; www.aidscareos.org. AIDS Project RI Division of Family Service of RI: Case mgmt., buddies, COBRA & dental services, emergency fund, mental health counseling, nutrition support, assessment & referral, wellness prog., advocacy, strength training. Prevention Ed. 404 Wickenden St., Providence: 831-5522. AIDS Quilt RI: Displays local AIDS Memorial Quilt panels; panel-making programs, including Anna’s Workshop, HIV/AIDS education for young people; PO Box 2591, Newport, RI 02840; 4344880; www.aidsquiltri.org; admin@aidsquiltri. org; annasworkshop@aidsquiltri.org. Brown Univ. AIDS Program (BRUNAP): clinical trials, public policy, research; lectures/conferences, patient/community education. Bradford Briggs, 863-6790. brunap@brown.edu; www.brown. edu/brunap. Chiropractic Services: Free for unemployed HIV+
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tioning men in So. Coast MA. Info on HIV/ STD test sites & safe sex; social/support groups, therapists & health care referrals; & more. Community Counseling of Bristol Co., MA. (508) 828-6692 or www.projectempower.com.
patients, Ronald P. Marsh, DC., 11 King Charles Dr., Portsmouth, RI; 683-1941.
Addiction Support Groups
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HIV antibody testing, Anonymous: R.I. Dept. of Health, Prov., Newport and other locations, Free or sliding scale, call 222-2320. Home and Hospice Care of RI: Medical care mgmt. for HIV/AIDS. 24-hr. nursing staff for treatment. 782-0725. Bereavement Groups: John Charette, 727-7079.
SSTAR (Stanley St. Treatment & Resources): counseling, drug treatment, detox, domestic violence programs; Free, confidential HIV, HEP C (HCV) & STD testing, education, case mgmt. and support. 386 Stanley St., Fall River, MA 02720. (508) 679-5222. Project Aware (HIV/ HCV) (800) 937-3610, Family Healthcare center (508) 675-1054; www.sstar.org. Tranquil Mind & Wellness: Counseling, alternative healing, yoga, Pilates, meditation and more. 105 Charles Eldridge Dr, Lakeville, MA. (508) 9471683. Thundermist Health Assoc.: 450 Clinton St. Woonsocket, provides HIV/AIDS services including: medical care & treatment by an HIV specialist, dental care, behavioral health counseling, nutritional assessment & counseling, pharmacy consultation, free, confidential HIV testing. Philip Kane 767-4100 Ext. 3516.
Be There and Be Queer!
House of Compassion: HIV/AIDS housing. 2510 Mendon Rd., 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, visit www.caregiver.org and click on groups. Luis E. Martinez House CHS, Inc.: Supportive, permanent housing for 10 adults living with HIV/ AIDS and/or substance abuse. New Bedford, MA. Contact Joe Taylor (508) 984-7514. Matthew 25: HIV/AIDS Ministry: Groceries, personal care products, counseling, referrals. Network with other ASOs. Mon., Wed., Thurs. 9:30-12, 1-2:30; Tues. 1-3. 781-9451. Sister Clara or Patty.
The Alley Cat: 17 Snow St. Prov. 273-0951 Downtown neighborhood bar. Sun.-Thur. 3 p.m.-1 a.m., Fri.-Sat. 3 p.m.-2 a.m. http://thealleycat. net. Bobby’s Place, 62 Weir St., Taunton, MA (508) 8249997. Dancing, pool, video lounge, karaoke. Mon.-Thurs. 5 p.m.- 1 a.m.; Fri. 5 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sat. 2 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sun. 2 p.m.-1 a.m. www.BobbysPlaceMA.com. Brooklyn Coffee & Tea House: 209 Douglas Ave., Prov. 575-2284. Special events space, open evenings. Open mike Wed. night, live music Friday night, short film screenings. See Web site for upcoming events. www.BrooklynCoffeeTeaHouse.com.
Partners in Learning About AIDS (PL-AIDS) Outreach to minorities, women of color, and LGBT community at clubs and other locations, and our No. Providence office, providing free condoms and information about STIs and post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV. www.plaidsproject.org or www.pl-aids.org. Email info@plaidsproject.org. 305-3993.
Club Body Center: 257 Weybosset St., Prov. 2740298 www.clubbodycenter.com. Gay men’s sauna. Membership required. One-day pass available. Open 24 hours daily.
Project ACT: Free Anonymous HIV Counseling and Testing. Walk-in Hours: Mondays 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Other hours by appointment only. 1 Washington St., Taunton, MA (508) 977-8146
Girl Spot at Gallery in Providence on Sat. nights. www.girlspot.com
Project Empower: Wellness prog. for gay, bi, ques-
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Club Gallery: 150 Point St., Prov. 751-7166 Disco, karaoke, dancing, outdoor patio. Open daily, noon-1 a.m. (Fri & Sat till 2 a.m.)
Mary Janes Ladies Night at Roots Cultural Center, 276 Westminster St., Prov. 7:30 to 1:00 on 4th Thursday of the month. Trivia with Nicool starts at 8:00. $5. 21+.
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man Rights.
email: mail@WABaptists.org.
Mirabar: 35 Richmond St., Prov. 331-6761 www. mirabar.com. Dancing, third floor lounge, ages 18+ Sun-Thurs 3 p.m.-1 a.m., Fri, Sat 3 p.m.-2 a.m.
BIGFLAG (Boston Immigration Group for Lesbians And Gays): social/support for LGBTs affected by immigration discrimination. (617) 499-9433.
Barrington Congregational Church (UCC) “the white church”, 461 Old County Rd., Barrington. 246-0111.www.bccucc.org
Providence Eagle: 198 Union St., Prov. 421-1447. Leather, Levi, bear cruise bar. Sun-Thurs 3 p.m.1 a.m., Fri, Sat 3 p.m.-2 a.m.
Brown University Queer Alliance: student advocacy and support organization. 683-3062. Email: queer@brown.edu
Mega-Plex: 257 Allens Ave., Prov. www.themegaplex.com. Gay men’s bathhouse. Open 24 hours daily. Membership required. One day pass available.
Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD): LGBT/HIV legal info hotline, 1:30-4:30 p.m. weekdays, (800) 455-GLAD. www.GLAD.org; 30 Winter St., Ste 800, Boston, MA 02108.
Bell Street Chapel (Unitarian Universalist), A Welcoming congregation: Rev. Jose Ballester, Minister. 5 Bell St., Prov., 273-5678, www.bellstreetchapel.org.
The Stable: 125 Washington St., Prov. 272-6950. Newly renovated downtown bar. Pool table. Sun - Thurs noon - 1 a.m.; Fri - Sat noon - 2 a.m. Touch Providence: All-Male Review 257 Allens Ave., Prov. All nude male strippers, bar, 18+ www.touchprovidence.com. Sun, Wed, Thurs 9 p.m.-1 a.m., Fri, Sat. 9 p.m.-2 a.m. 732-7740. T.W.I.S.T. Program Coffee Night: Coffee, light snacks served every Thursday, 7 – 9 p.m. 1287 Acushnet Ave., New Bedford. 508-672-0378. Union: 200 Union St. Prov. 831-5366. Video lounge, live entertainment. Sun. 6 p.m.-1 a.m., Mon.-Thur. 3 p.m.-1 a.m., Fri.-Sat. 6 p.m.-2 a.m.
Information/Education Feminist Voices: women’s chorus. www.feministvoices.com. Fenway Gay and Lesbian Helpline: support, info & referrals for GLBT community from Fenway Community Health Ctr., Boston; (617) 267-9001 or 888-340-4528, 6-11 p.m. seven days a week.
Trans Queer RI: friendship, fun activities, and support for transgender, queer & like-minded people. Gatherings third Sunday of each month. Email trans.queer.ri@gmail.com.
Lambda Legal Defense & Education Fund: 120 Wall St., Suite 1500, NY, NY 10005; (212) 8098585, Fax: (212) 809-0055.
Christ Church in Lonsdale (Episcopal), 1643 Lonsdale Ave., Lincoln. Services 8 and 10:30 a.m. www.christchurchlincoln.org. 725-1920.
Lawyers for Equality and Diversity (LEAD): Advocates for lgbt causes. lawyersforequality@gmail. com
Church of the Epiphany, 1336 Pawtucket Ave., Rumford. 434-5012. A diverse Open & Affirming Episcopal congregation. www.epiphanyep.org
Marriage Equality RI (MERI): Works for equal access to marriage for all. www.marriageequalityri. org or call 941-2727. 118 No. Main St., Unit 3, Providence RI 02903.
GLBT Helpline of RI: Info and referrals to physicians, therapists, businesses, agencies, social support groups, links to call-in helplines and more. www.glbthelpline.org.
RI Commission on Prejudice and Bias: hate crime awareness training program www.hatecrimeri. org.
United Way of RI Referral Line: 2-1-1 Youth Pride, Inc. HIV Peer Educators: HIV education discussion, games, thought-provoking activities. Led by trained youth educators. Free. 421-5626.
Political & Legal Groups American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): 831-7171; 128 Dorrance St., Suite 220, Prov., RI 02903. Amnesty International OUTfront: Program to campaign globally for LGBTIQ human rights. Cvohs18904@yahoo.com or 212-807-8400. Visit www.amnestyusa.org/Our Issues/LGBT Hu-
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Central Congregational Church (UCC), where we believe God is still speaking. Services Sunday, 10:30 a.m. We welcome all. 296 Angell St., East Side of Providence. 331-1960. www. centralchurch.us.
Green Party of RI: PO Box 1151, Prov., RI 02901; 490-7602.
The Next Thing (TNT): political and support group for queer people of color located at Brown University. Contact the Brown Queer Alliance, 8633062.
RILGBT-NEWS: Low-volume email distribution list for LGBT & AIDS news from RI. Not a discussion list. To subscribe: tinawood@cox.net.
Calvary Episcopal Church, Open and welcoming. 158 Broad St., Burrilville, RI. 568-3888. www. calvaryepiscopal.us.email, calvary125@aol.com.
Channing Memorial Church, Unitarian Universalist, A Welcoming Congregation, 135 Pelham St., Newport. Call 846-0643 or visit www.channing.Newport.uua.org.
GayLab: outreach & education for healthy relationships. James at 781-762-6629, or info@gaylab. org or www.gaylab.org.
NewportOut.com: LGBT Web site for Newport, RI.
Beneficent Congregational Church (UCC), in the heart of Providence at 300 Weybosset St. An Open & Affirming congregation since 2001. Visit us Sundays at 10 a.m. or on the Web at www.beneficentchurch.org. Co-Pastors Todd & Nicole Yonkman, 331-9844.
RI Human Rights Commission: Anti-discrimination law enforcement agency with jurisdiction in employment, housing, public accommodations and credit, 180 Westminster St., 3rd floor Prov. Phone: 222-2662. Fax: 222-2616, TDD: 2222664. RI Patient Advocacy Coalition: legalization of marijuana use for medical purposes. RIpatients.org or www.RIpatients.org. Servicemembers Legal Defense Network: Assisting active duty service members affected by the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. PO Box 65301, Wash., DC, 20035; (202) 328-3244, ext. 100, sldn@sldn.org, www.sldn.org. Straight But Not Narrow Coalition: Straight support for LGBT, PO Box 2591, Newport, RI 02840; 333-6991 or (800) 843-8383.
Religious Resources Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists,
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Church of the Holy Paraclete, Independent Old Catholic; Mass every Sunday at 6 p.m. 155 Douglas Ave., Providence. http://holyparaclete. org; Fr. Jakob Lazarus 218-0706. Episcopal Cathedral of Saint John. 271 N. Main St., Prov. 02903. Please call 331-4622. Emmanuel Episcopal Church. 120 Nate Whipple Highway, Cumberland RI 02864. 658-1506. First Congregational Church in Bristol, an Open and Affirming Congregation. 281 High Street, Bristol. Pastor Dan Randall, 253-7288. First Unitarian Church. A Welcoming congregation at One Benevolent St., Prov.; 421-7970. Services Sunday 10:30 a.m. First Unitarian Church. 71 8th St., New Bedford, MA 02740. (508) 994-9686. First Universalist Society, Franklin, MA: UUA Welcoming congregation. Same-gender weddings. 262 Chestnut St. (508) 528-5348. www.fusf.org. Email fusf@verizon.net Foxboro Universalist Church, Unitarian Universalist Association. 6 Bird St., Foxboro, MA 02035. Pastor Katie Lawson, 508-543-4002. Welcoming congregation, marriage ceremonies. www.uufoxborough.org Grace Episcopal Church in Providence, 175 Mathewson Street, Providence. 331-3225. Immanuel Lutheran Church: A Reconciling in Christ congregation, 647 N. Main St., Attleboro, MA 02703. (508) 222-2898, www.immanuellc.org.
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Interweave at Channing UU Church in Newport (135 Pelham St.) A membership organization for the spiritual, political and social well-being of LGBTQ persons -- and their allies -- confronting oppression. 846-0643. Mathewson St. Church (United Methodist), 134 Mathewson St., Prov., 331-8900. Mercy of God Community: Christian, inclusive religious order. If you feel called, please visit our Web site: www.mgc.org. Murray Unitarian Universalist Church, 505 N. Main St., Attleboro, MA, 02702 Rev. Sandra D. Fitz-Henry. Marriage & commitment ceremonies for all. (508) 222-0505 www.murrayuuchurch.org
Mathewson St., Providence. Fr. David Martins, 263-4296. www.saintthereseocc.org
groups, and quarterly newsletter “Bi Woman.” Subscribe at www.biwomenboston.org.
Seekonk Congregational Church: 600 Fall River Ave., Seekonk, MA. 02771, (508) 336-9355, Rev. Joy Utter, www.scc-ucc.com.
Bears Ocean State (BOS): Informal e-group for gay & bisexual bear-identified and -affiliated men for friendly companionship. All welcome. http:// groups.yahoo.com/group/bearsoceanstate or bearsoceanstate-subscribe@yahoogroups.com. Age-restricted.
Temple Agudas Achim: GLBT-friendly, Reconstructionist cong. Rabbi Elyse Wechterman. 901 No. Main St., Attleboro, MA. (508) 222-2243 or www.agudasma.org. Temple Beth-El: GLBT-welcoming. Rabbi Sarah E. Mack. 70 Orchard Ave., Prov., RI 02906. 3316070 Temple Emanu-El, Sessions St. & Morris Ave., Providence. A welcoming Conservative congregation. Rabbi Wayne Franklin, 331-1616.
Newman Congregational Church, Open & Affirming. 100 Newman Ave., Rumford, RI. 43114742.
Temple Habonim (Reform): Rabbi Andrew Klein, 165 New Meadow Rd., Barrington, 245-6536. www.templehabonim.org.
Newport Congregational Church: UCC. Rev. Hayes & Rev. Baker. Open & Affirming. 73 Pelham St., Newport. 849-2238 or nccucc@newportcongregationalchurch.org.
Temple Sinai: A Welcoming Reform Temple. Rabbi Peter Stein, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston, RI. 9428350. www.TempleSinairi.org.
Park Place Congregational Church, 71 Park Pl., Pawtucket, 726-2800. The Pub Church: A church that meets in a pub! Saturdays, 5 p.m. at The Dugout, 722 Commonwealth Ave. Boston. Open & Affirming. Affiliated with Protestant Disciples of Christ. Email thepubchurch@gmail.com. Location may change, so check blog: thepubchurch.blogspot. com. Pilgrim Lutheran Church, an inclusive congregation: 1817 Warwick Ave., Warwick. 739-2937
Unitarian Society of Fairhaven (MA): 102 Green St., Fairhaven, MA 02719; (508) 992-7081. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of So. County: 27 North Rd., Peace Dale, RI; 783-4170 or Val 789-7282. www.uusouthcountyri.org. United Church of Christ: Coalition for LGBT Concerns. 13 Steven Circle, S. Kingstown, RI 02883, Ray Bradley at 782-3871. Westminster Unitarian/Universalist Church: 119 Kenyon Avenue, East Greenwich, RI 02818. 884-5933
Bridgewater State College GLBT Alumni Group: email Kenneth Hayes (‘91) khayesbbc@msn.com or visit www.bridgew.edu. Cape and Islands Gay & Straight Youth Alliance (CIGYA): (508) 778-7744. CORISMA: Gay and lesbian couples of RI and Southeast MA. Potluck get-togethers for couples only. For info or to be added to email list write: corismainfo@comcast.net. www.corismagroup. org Defenders/Providence: Leather/Levi club, c/o PO Box 41153, Prov., RI 02940. Third Sun at 6 p.m. Fall River’s Rainbow Girls: private, moderated welcoming group for women in the Fall River Area. groups.yahoo.com/group/ Fall_River_Rainbow_Grrls. Gay Lesbian Alliance of Newport County Etc. (GLANCE): Social and entertainment events. E-mail glance1234@hotmail.com. Gay Dads Group: Meets monthly for socializing and support. E-mail serrel30@aol.com. Imperial Court of RI at Prov: Male, female, drag king & queen performers raise funds for local charities. Meetings 1st Mon. of month, all welcome. PO Box 6583, Prov., RI 02904;www.icriprov.org.
Pilgrim United Church of Christ. Open and affirming. 635 Purchase St., New Bedford. 508-997-5684.
Men’s Card Group: New group in formation. E-mail johninprov@gmail. com or call John 261-9715.
Riverside Church (U.C.C.) 15 Oak Ave., Riverside, RI. 433-2039. www.rcc-ucc.com
Men’s Gay Camping: In RI, CT, MA. Gatherings organized for tents to RVs during Spring, Summer and Fall 2012. www.webspawner.com/users/ gaycamping/index.html or call 2770075 or email gaycamping@gmx.com.
St. Augustine’s Church and Episcopal Center at URI: 35 Lower College Rd., Kingston. 783-2153 www.staugustineURI.com.
Mixed Borders Gardening Group: Gardening and more! Monthly meetings, all welcome! For more information: www.MixedBorders.com or EMail Mixedborders@cox.net
St. Francis City Ministry at the Church of St. Mary, 535 Broadway, Prov., Sr. Steven Patti, OFM. 353-1422 St. James Church: Episcopal, 474 Fruit Hill Ave., No. Prov. 353-2079. St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, 50 Orchard St. East side of Prov., 751-2141 St. Martin’s Episcopal Church: County & River Sts., New Bedford, MA. (508) 994-8972, stmartins1887@aol.com. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 50 Park Place, Pawtucket. 728-4300. www.stpaulspawtucket.org St. Paul’s Church, a Welcoming Episcopal church. 2679 E. Main St., Portsmouth. 862-1466. www. stpaulsportsmouthri.org
Social Organizations Atheists/Agnostics: RI Atheist Society – “Working to keep Church and State separate” Welcoming all. Meets 3rd Monday of the month at an area restaurant for lively discussions among likeminded people. For info: www.RIatheist.net Bisexual Resource Center: 29 Stanhope St., Boston, (617) 424-9595 or www.biresource.net.
St. Peter & St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church: 25 Pomona Ave., Prov.; 272-9649. Email.stpanda25@ verizon.net. www.stpetersandstandrews.org.
Biversity Boston: Mixed-sex social network. Bimonthly brunches and other social events. http://biversity.org.
Saint Therese Old Catholic Church, Open & Affirming, Sunday Mass at 12:30 p.m. at 134
Boston Bisexual Women’s Network: Social activities including monthly brunches, coming out
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Opera Club: last Sunday of each month at 1:00 p.m. Enjoy hearing and attending. Email Dave at BrettCornellpi4@aol.com Pawtuxet Pride: GLBTQ folks & friends in Pawtuxet Village (Cranston and beyond). All welcome. Call Ed at 345-1264 or email EDZL@aol.com. Providence Gay Men’s Chorus: Mon, 7-9:30 p.m., Beneficent Church, 300 Weybosset St, Prov.. New season rehearsals begin in January and August. Singers and nonsinging volunteers welcome. 484-7900 or www.provgmc.org. Queer Book Club. Meets 3rd Wednesday 7 p.m. at Books on the Square, 471 Angell St., Providence. Email queerbookclub@gmail.com. Raging Grannies: Women of “a certain age” working toward a more peaceful, equitable society
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with song, humor & passion. Will sing for rallies & events. Email jlglass53@aol.com. RI Association of Gay Professionals. Professional networking and philanthropy. gayprofessionalnetworkofri@gmail.com. 453-9276 RI Feminist Resources Network: Free, online e-community in which you are invited to share events or highlights in your organization or just find out what’s going on in our “like-minded” communities. www.rifrn.net RI Lesbian Social Club: social gatherings for women; email: heylari@yahoo.com or call 272-2962. RI Parents Pride: Gay parents socializing together with their children. Contact Melanie, 464-2288 or saphicangel120@yahoo.com RI Pride: Parade & Festival, year-round events; Box 1082, Prov. RI 02901, info@PrideRI.com; www. PrideRI.com. Office at 1005 Main St. #1105, Pawtucket. 467-2130 RI Prime Timers. Social and networking group for gay and bisexual men 40 and older. Meets 2nd Sundays. www.riprimetimers.org RI Skeptics Society. Yearning to talk with someone rational? Meetings 4th Saturday at a Seekonk restaurant for refreshing discussion. http:// skeptics.meetup.com/133/ RI Women’s Association: Lesbian social group; age 21+; dances/events. www.RIWA.net SAGE/RI (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders) Advocacy, education and social events for RI’s LGBTQ seniors. sageriinfo@gmail.com, on Facebook: “Sage/Rhode Island.” SEMASSMEN: Social group for GBQ men of S.E. Mass and RI to foster strong friendships.Semassmen-subscribe@yahoo groups.com or email moderator rlevass @yahoo.com. Trans Queer RI: friendship, fun activities, and support for transgender, queer & like-minded people. Gatherings third Sunday of each month. Email trans.queer.ri@gmail.com. T.W.I.S.T. Project: Program for gay and bisexual men in Fall River/New Bedford area. Drop-in center, referrals, condom distribution, social groups. Coffee night Thursdays 7 – 9 p.m. (508) 672-0378; www.myspace.com/twistprogram. UNISONG: For unity through song. Non-performance monthly singing session. www.unisong. net or jlglass53@aol.com VegOut Rhode Island: Social group for LGBT vegetarians, vegans and friends. Potlucks, VegOutings to restaurants, and other fun. Visit www. meetup.com/vegout-ri WomenRIsing. Feminist Chorus. Director Nancy Rosenberg. www.womenrisingchorus.org. Email: contact@womenrisingchorus.org. Yankee Lambda Car Club: Regional club for glbt people interested in vintage & specialty cars. www.yankeelcc.com, sisherwood@aol.com.
pridesportsboston.com 617-937-5858 Gay sports in Boston and beyond: www.gaysports. com. Email info@gaysports.com. BASKETBALL: Boston Gay Basketball League: www.bgbl.com or (617) 937-5858 Ext. 2. BOWLING: RI GALA: 6 p.m. Sun., East Prov. Lanes, Newport Ave., Bruce, 397-3803, or Bill, 828-5587 www.galabowling.com. Monday Night Women’s Bowling League, Pat 451-2188. Royal Court Bowling League: 9 p.m. Wed., Woonsocket Hill Bowl; 767-2110. Big Gay Al’s Duckpin bowling league: Tuesdays 6:30 p.m., Proceeds benefit AIDS causes. Town Hall Lanes, Johnston. www.BGALBowling.com. Frank Ferri 831-6940. www.townhalllanes.com. BOWLING: BOSTON: Monday Night League, www.mnbl.net (617) 713-4832 or (617) 937-5858 Ext. 5; Beantown No. G&L Invitational, www. beantownbowling.com (617) 738-0708 or (617) 937-5858 Ext. 10; Beantown South G&L Invitational League, (617) 889-1552.
PRIDESPORTSBOSTON: Network of twenty+ gay sports leagues/teams in Boston area: www.
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SQUASH: Boston Boasts www.bostonboasts.com SWIMMING: LANES (Liquid Assets New England Swim-Team); www.swim-lanes.org; (617) 9375858 Ext. 9. TENNIS: TENNIS-4-All: www.tennis4all.org. VOLLEYBALL: Cambridge Boston Volleyball Assoc. www.GayVolleyball.net, (617) 633-2180 VOLLEYBALL: Ocean State Pride Volleyball League meets Sundays at Pawtucket YMCA. Two leagues for varying abilities (afternoons and evenings) OSPVolleyball@gmail.com. www.volleyballri@yahoo.com YOGA for gays & lesbians. 9 a.m. Saturdays. All welcome. www/meetup.com/Gay-Meditation/. Fee applies. WRESTLING: East Coast Wrestling Club www. eastcoastwrestlingclub.org, email ecwc@juno. com, (401) 467-6737 or (617) 937-5858 Ext. 6
DARTS: Bean Town Soft Tips Darts League www. bsdl.org. FLAG FOOTBALL: FLAG (For Lesbians and Gays) Football www.flagflagfootball.com, (617) 9375858 Ext. 4. FOOTBALL: Women’s professional team Northeastern Nitro. Members of the Women’s Football Alliance. Practices held in Bethel, CT. Contact Amy Manfred at amymanfred@yahoo.com or Carley Pesente at linebackergirl56@aol.com. RI/S.E. MA Flag Football: Sats. 10 a.m. All levels and genders. mbs1994ever@yahoo.com GOLF: Golf4All www.golf4all.net (617) 450-8682. HOCKEY: Boston Pride Hockey www.bostonpridehockey.org (617) 937-5858 Ext. 7. ICE HOCKEY for WOMEN: email gwick@kersur.net.
Gail Wickstrom
KICKBOXING or BOXING for WOMEN: Tues & Thurs evenings. Christina, 996-5425. www.rondeauskickboxing.com OUTDOORS: Chiltern Mountain Club: outdoor recreation for men & women; Call 617-869-7958 for newsletter; PO Box 390928, Cambridge, MA 02139; www.chiltern.org. ROWING: Boston Bay Blades www.bayblades.org/ boston (617) 937-5858 Ext. 11. RUGBY: Boston Ironsides Rugby Football Club. www.bostonironsidesrfc.org. RUNNING: Frontrunners Rhode Island: Brian 751-7643, bripm@cox.net; Frontrunners Boston www.frontrunnersboston.org (617) 937-5858 Ext. 3. SCUBA DIVING: Triangle Divers: www.triangledivers.org. SNOWBOARDING: OutRyders, www.outryders. org or email brian@outryders.org. SOCCER: Boston Strikers Soccer Club www.bostonstrikers.com (617) 937-5858 Ext. 9.
Sports
Beantown Softball League: (617) 937-5858, Ext. 1, www.beantownsoftball.com.
SOFTBALL: Renaissance City Softball League. New players and boosters always welcome. 3236642 or rcsl_commish@cox.net. Visit www. providencesoftball.org
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Students & Youth Bristol Community College Gay/Straight Alliance (BCC/GSA); Steven Camara, Advisor (508)6782811 Ext. 2391, BCC-H202, 777 Elsbree St., Fall River, MA 02720. Brown University Queer Alliance: umbrella org. for groups. 863-3062. www.queer.brown.edu Brown University Grad Student - Med Student - Staff LGBTQ Association: queer-med-gradmembers@queer.brown.edu Brown University Staff LGBTQ Assn.: call LGBT Resource Center: 863-3062 Brown University LGBTQ Resource Center: 8633062, e-mail lgbtq@brown.edu Bryant Pride: Bryant College Gay/Lesbian/ Bisexual Student Association. 232-6389. CCRI Triangle Alliance: Informal student GLBQT group, 400 East Ave., Warwick. Call 825-1125 or www.ccri.cc.ri.edu/triangle. COLAGE. Support for children of LGBT Parents: rhodeisland@colage.org; http://www.myspace. com/colage_ri. 331-9844. Fitchburg State College GLBT Alliance: social support group for students. One-in-Ten and Friends, 978-665-3164, sfranzemn@fsc.edu. Peer Listening Line/Fenway Community Health Ctr.: Boston. Youth-staffed hotline for GLBT youth; support, info and referrals. (617) 2672535 or (800)-399-PEER, 5-10 p.m. all week. RIC Rainbow Alliance: GLBT students at RI College, Fridays 12:30 -- 2 p.m, in Unity Center in lower Donovan. Office in StudentUnion 425. ricrainbowalliance2007@yahoo.com. Phone 456--8121 Salve Regina University Gay Straight Lesbian Bisexual Alliance (GSLBA), 100 Ochre Point Ave., Newport. Sister Johnelle, Lucianij@salve.edu SeaQuel: Southeast Asian Queers United for Empowerment and Leadership. Bi-weekly Sunday meetings. 383-7450. myspace.com/seaQuel;
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Email SeaQuel@Prysm.us S.H.E.P.A.R.D. (Stopping Homophobia, Eliminating Prejudices and Restoring Dignity): Providence College, 1 Cunningham Sq., Prov., RI 02918, E-mail pclgbt@gmail.com. 865-1631 The Trevor Project: The only nationwide, aroundthe-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for lgbt youth. Also offers social networks. 866-4-U-TREVOR; thetrevorproject.org. The Next Thing (TNT): political & support group for queer people of color at Brown Univ. Call Brown Queer Alliance, 863-3062. University of RI Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer & Questioning (LGBTIQ2) association dedicated to campus inclusiveness among staff, faculty, alumni and students. jraffaele@advance.uri.edu. 874-4604. Youth Pride Inc./The Way Out: Support, education & advocacy for LGBTQQ young people ages 13-23.Drop-in center at 743 Westminster St., Prov. 02903; M-F noon-8 p.m. The Way Out support group meets Thurs., 5 p.m. The Gender Spectrum support group meets Tues. 5:30 p.m. Call 421-5626 or email kerri@youthpride-ri.org Web: www.youthpride-ri.org.
Support Groups & Social Services Adoption Options: Non-sectarian help for LGBT and straight adoptions. Betsy Alper, Jewish Family Service, 959 No. Main St., Providence. 331-54337.
Day One (Formerly Sexual Assault and Trauma Resource Center of RI): Counseling & legal aid for victims of sexual assault/abuse & incest. 24-hr hotline (800) 494-8100, collect calls accepted: 421-4100. Domestic Violence Resource Center of South County: Support, court advocacy, counseling, safe home, info for women and men in abusive or controlling, LGBT or straight relationships. 24 hour free and confidential helpline. 7823990. Female-to-Male Support Group: Transgender peer support, information, social group. For those who identify somewhere on the trans-masculine spectrum. Regular meetings. Visit www.SNE_ FTM@yahoo.com Gay/Bi/Lesbian Coming Out support Group: Facilitated meetings, social events. tjfronczak@aol. com. Fee applies. Gay Fathers of Greater Boston: support: E-Mail outreach@gayfathersboston.org. www.gayfathersboston.org. Gay Fathers Support Group in RI. Tom Fronczak, LICSW, 431-2953. Fee applies. GayLab for Healthy Relationships: Learning & practicing healthy ways to socialize in safe, nonjudgmental environment in LGBT community. www.gaylab.org. Email info@gaylab.org. James, 781-762-6629
Coming Out Support Group: Monthly meetings professionally facilitated. www.meetup.com/ ComingOutRI/ Fee applies. Compass: FTM trans info, support and social group, meets in Boston First Thursday, 7 – 9 p.m. www.compassftm.org, compassftm@comcast.net Crossroads RI: Hotline (Travelers Aid): (800) 3672700
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PFLAG: Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians & Gays: Greater Providence: First Wednesdays, 6:45p.m. at Met School, 325 Public St., Providence. 751-7571; www.pflagprovidence.org; pflagprovidence@verizon.net; South/Central RI: www.pflagscri.org, 219-0265, epbonetti@gmail. com; Cape Cod/Falmouth: Last Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Falmouth, 840 Sandwich Rd., E. Falmouth. joann@pflagcapecod.org. RI Coalition Against Domestic Violence: info at 467-9940; 24 hr. helpline, (800) 494-8100. RI Rainbow Support Group for people with disabilities who identify as LGBTQ. Meets last Tuesday of each month. 98 Rolfe St., Cranston, 6 - 7:30. Ken Renaud, 785-2100. RI Relay 711.
Sexual Health Education & Advocacy Program: HIV, sexual wellness, domestic violence risk reduction. Free, confidential, LGBTQ-friendly and bilingual (Spanish). Contact Aida (amanduley@sojournerri.org) or call 861-6191 (X121). No caller ID is used; calls are blocked for safety.
Gay Officers Action League /New England (GOAL NE), gay/lesbian/bisexual law enforcement officers, sworn & civilian. Fire, rescue and publicly employed EMS. P.O. Box 587, Boston, MA 02117; www.goalne.org; info@goalne.org; (617) 376-3612. Confidential.
COLAGE (Children of Gays): A national movement of people with one or more LGBT parents. Social justice, education & advocacy. Meets 3rd Saturday of the month, Beneficent Church (3319844), 300 Weybosset St., Providence. Jamie Pease, rhodeisland@colage.org. www.myspace. com/colage_ri
Nat. Lesbian & Gay Journalists Assoc./New England: works for fair and accurate media coverage of LGBT issues, info@nlgja.org.
Gay Men’s Domestic Violence Project: support, info, shelter. (800) 832-1901, www.gmdvp.org.
Foster parents needed, for newborn to age six. www. childrensfriendri.org. 276-4318
Catholic Parents Outreach: Always Our Children, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, Sacred Heart Convent, 395 Chestnut St., Springfield, MA. Call Ann, (413) 736-6803.
Mantalk of S.E. Mass: social/discussions for gay/ bi/curious men 18+. Taunton every Thursday, and New Bedford 1st Wed. of the month, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Confidential. Drug/alcohol-free. Email mantalksouthcoast@yahoo.com
Samaritans: 24-hour hotline for suicidal, lonely, despairing, depressed. (800) 365-4044 (RI only), 272-4044; www.samaritansri.org.
Gay Men’s Meditation Group: Positive New Beginnings, 873 Waterman Ave., E. Providence. Call Tim at 944-0723. $10/session.
Behavioral health outpatient services in Fall River area, inclusive of LGBT: S.T.E.P. (508-)2351012; T.W.I.S.T. (508) 672-0378
LifeLines RI: For transgender, genderqueer, intersex, etc. people. Advocacy, support, education. TGI Network of R.I. www.tginetwork.org. info@tginetwork.org.
Gay Men’s Empowerment Group: A life-coaching group for gay men. Wed. nights 6:30-8 p.m. Call Tim at 944-0723. $20/session.
Foster parents needed: Stipend, assistance, training provided by Family Resources Community Action. 766-0900 X1213.
Foster parents sought: training, stipend, support provided for nurturing families. Gil Wright, Family Service of RI, 331-1350 Ext. 3305
aol.com.
Gay Share. Coming Out? Gay men’s support group Wed., 7 p.m. No fee. Call Tom/Mike, 369-9448 or www.gayshare.org; Info@gayshare.org. Helpline for LGBT Youth: Trevor Helpline, call 24/7 for crisis and suicide prevention. Also social networks. 866-4-U-Trevor HIV+ Gay Men’s Support Group at AIDS Care Ocean State, 18 Parkis Ave., Prov., RI. 5213603. Refreshments served. New members should call Scott: 640-3108 Intimacy Between Men: Social support group for gay/bi men focusing on issues of intimacy and relationship. Led by Tom Fronczak, LICSW, call 431-2953 or email TJFronczak@aol.com. Fee applies. Kathy’s Group: free support group for lesbians with cancer or any life-threatening illness. Meets monthly in Providence. Partners and caregivers welcome. Call 888-5KATHYS. Lesbian Moms of Southern NE: discussion, support and activity list for lesbian mothers. www. topica.com/lists/LMOSNE or ForADancer63@
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Sojourner House: Support, shelter, advocacy, info for people in abusive relationships. Call us at 861-6191 M-F 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. We DON’T use Caller ID; calls are blocked for safety. Straight Spouse Support: RIKate6129@yahoo.com. Straight Spouses Group: Visit www.StraightSpouse. org. for info on groups and online support. TGI Network of R.I.: Support, advocacy for Transgender, Transsexual, Gender-varient, Genderqueer & Intersex people. www.tginetwork.org. info@tginetwork.org. Transgender Support Group: Cape Cod (508) 3624435 Trans Partners New England: Professionally led group for loved ones of trans people. TGI Network of R.I. www.tginetwork.org. 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. q
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