Options Newsmagazine-June/July 2013

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Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender

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June/July 2013

Pride.

In this issue: 2 5

Scene Around Providence

3 News Briefs 10 Gay Officers

8 Lesbians on the Loose Action League 13 The Mythos of Phil Shaw 15 Pre-Marital Agreements 17 Voices: Bisexuality 19 Pride Month Calendar 22 TGI Network 23 SAGE/RI 24 AIDS Care Ocean State 25 Youth Pride, Inc. 26 RI LGBT Center

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q Serving the RI LGBT Communityq Since 1982 june/july q Visit our Resources on p. 27 options 1 2013 Sectionq

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Scene Around Providence From King of Queens, a May 5 fundraiser for AIDS Care Ocean State, held at the Colosseum.

(See the winner on page 24.) Photography courtesy of Jack Hartwein-Sanchez.

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News Briefs Hate Crimes on the Rise in NYC

Marriage Equality is Law in Rhode Island!

On May 17, just blocks from the Stonewall Inn in New York City’s Greenwich Village, 32-year-old Brooklyn resident Mark Carson was confronted by a man screaming anti-gay slurs, who then stalked him for blocks before pulling out a revolver and shooting him point blank in the face. Mr. Carson was taken to Beth Israel Medical Center and pronounced dead on arrival.

In surprisingly quick order, the bill making same-gender marriage legal was voted successfully out of the Senate Judiciary Committee at the end of April. It hit the Senate floor within 24 hours, where it passed 26-12 and was signed by the governor a few days later, making RI the tenth state to have such a law, followed quickly by Delaware and Minnesota.

According to Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly, the man seemed to be out looking for trouble when he crossed paths with Mr. Carson. Witnesses reported nothing in the victim’s actions or words that would have aggravated the situation.

Nevada Lawmakers Approve Trans Bill On May 14, the Nevada Assembly gave final approval to a bill that would add gender identity and expression to the state’s hate crimes law.

There has been a sharp rise in bias-related crimes in New York City this year — 22 compared with 13 during the same period last year. In May there were five attacks directed at gay men, including a vicious assault on a gay couple outside Madison Square Garden on May 5.

“This is a statement of what our society is, and that we will not tolerate the systematic targeting of individuals who are historically disadvantaged groups,” said gay Assemblyman Andrew Martin (D-Las Vegas) before the measure passed by a 30-11 vote.

The state Senate has already approved the bill, and the governor supports the measure, according to reports.

Meningitis Outbreak Among Gay Men Worries Officials A deadly bacterial meningitis outbreak striking gay men in New York City has sickened 22 and killed seven NYC men over the last two years.

The speed with which meningitis kills has complicated the search for people at risk. There have been several cases where men have been actually found dead in their

apartment before they’d even gone to see a medical provider.

Initially, meningitis symptoms may resemble the flu, with worsening headache, vomiting, and a sudden high fever (over 101.3). Over hours to days, patients may develop difficulty thinking, a stiff neck, and sensitivity to light.

IDAHO May 17 was the 9th annual International Day Against Homophobia & Transphobia (IDAHO). The day was commemorated in over 100 countries around the world, highlighting the consequences of homophobia and transphobia on gender and sexual minorities.

Activists commemorating IDAHO all over the world submitted posts about what homophobia and transphobia look like in their countries, what they are doing for IDAHO and how IDAHO will ultimately impact their efforts.

To learn more, visit the International Day Against Homophobia & Transphobia’s official facebook page.

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Reports of a strange illness affecting gay men may conjure images of the early years of AIDS, but experts are quick to note the differences, especially since meningitis infection can be stopped.

The bacterium is spread by close contact – such as kissing, or sharing a toothbrush, a cigarette or even a coffee cup.

One Million Moms: “We Got ‘New Normal’ Canceled” “The New Normal,” the recently canceled NBC series that focused on a pair of gay fathers-to-be had been the target of anti-gay group One Million Moms’ wrath for some time. “‘The New Normal’ is attempting to desensitize America and our children,” members of the group wrote on their website last year “It is the opposite of how families are designed and created. You cannot recreate the biological wheel.”

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From the Editor’s Desk Another Pride month is here! I hope everyone takes advantage of the opportunities to learn, socialize and have fun with our wonderful RI LGBTQ community at all the special events coming up. Many thanks in advance to Rhode Island Pride for all the work that goes into making this month as exciting as it promises to be.

In the last few days before going to press with this edition, I took note of an endeavor in Boston to bring attention to criminalized LGBTQ people at this year’s Boston Pride event. At the forefront of the effort is a group called Black & Pink, which works to advocate for currently and formerly incarcerated LGBTQ people, highlighting the abuse this marginalized community endures.

Options is proud to count several incarcerated Rhode Islanders among its readers; we hear from these folks on a regular basis, and know that there is a network by which LGBTQ prisoners support one another

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(and share their copies of Options), helping to bring a sense of community to those who might otherwise be extremely isolated.

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

The folks at Black & Pink are lobbying to be nominated as Marshals of the Boston Pride Parade, to “remind the million attendees that we must not only tip our hats to criminalized queers, but we must prioritize the voices of LGBTQ people in prison, who have experienced policing, who have gone through the violence of the court systems, and who are silenced over and over again.”

We salute their efforts and echo their words.

It is indeed important to speak for those who are not in a position to speak, and to remember that the gay rights movement began in a clash with law enforcement.

Managing Director Kim Stowell editor@optionsri.org

JUNE/JULY 2013 q Vol. XXXI1, No. 5

Writers Kalene Brennan, Chris Cedroni, Katrina Chaves, Annie Cronin-Silva, Rodney Davis, Janelle Heideman, Brian Gay, Sally Ann Hay, Kerri Kanelos Copy Editors Dennis Bozzi, Jessica Cinquegrana, Nathaniel Zane, Brian Gay, Steve Kagan, Joseph Morra, Maria Phillips, Jim Seavor, Myra Shays Calendar Editor Lisé Schwartz calendar@optionsri.org

Enjoy this issue of Options, everyone, and this wonderful month.

Resources Editor Myra Shays mshays@verizon.net General Information info@optionsri.org

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

June 1-14 “Coming Home” – Portraits of Jewish Women. A multimedia exhibition: Jewishness, Transgender Identity, and Love. Kniznick Gallery at Brandeis University, 515 South St., Waltham, MA. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. or by appointment. For more information call (781) 736-8102 or e-mail mlheur@brandeis.edu.

3 Birthday Tini – Come celebrate Miss Kitty Litter’s and Jeanne D’Agostino’s birthdays, 5:30-8 p.m., Providence Biltmore Hotel, 3rd Floor Garden Terrace, 11 Dorrance St., Providence. Hosted by BB Hayes, LaDiva Jonz, Scott Connery, and Rose Mary Grant. Proceeds benefit AIDS Care Ocean State and The Highlander Charter School. Tickets at www.aidscareos.org.

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

5 Providence Gay Men’s Chorus presents “The Colors of Our Lives,” 7 p.m. The Met School, 325 Public St., Providence. Tickets are $20, and may be purchased at www.pgmc.eventbrite.com, from a chorus member or at the door prior to the concert.

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6 Honoring Myra Shays’s 15 years of service, dedication and leadership to Greater Providence PFLAG, 4-6 p.m. The State Room at the RI State House.

6 Love Forward with Laughter. 8 p.m.

Comedy Connection, 39 Warren Ave., East Providence. Comedy to benefit RI Pride, featuring Kitty Litter, Christina Thomas, Andrew Williams, John Kelly, Tammy Twotone, and Mark Shea. Doors open at 7 p.m.

Tickets: $20. 277-4201 or www.ricomedyconnection.reachlocal.com.

tgi network of rhode island education • advocacy • support

for transgender • intersex gender-variant • transsexual genderqueer • people and those who love them Please email info@tginetwork.org for more information.

www.tginetwork.org

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7 Gay Pride Shabbat Service, 7:30 p.m., Temple Habonim, 165 New Meadow Rd., Barrington. All are welcome.

7 Luna’s Ladies Night, 9 p.m. Roots Cultural Center, 276 Westminster St., Providence. Live music, DJ, special events. 21+ $6 cover. Every Friday. See www.lunaspvd.com.

8 Boston Pride Parade and Festival, 12 noon. See www.bostonpride.org for parade route and more information.

8 Providence Gay Men’s Chorus presents “The Colors of Our Lives,” 7 p.m. The Met School, 325 Public St., Providence. Tickets are $20, and may be purchased at www.pgmc.eventbrite.com, from a chorus member or at the door prior to the concert.

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

9 Providence Gay Men’s Chorus presents “The Colors of Our Lives,” 4

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p.m. The Met School, 325 Public St., Providence. Tickets are $20, and may be purchased at www.pgmc.eventbrite.com, from a chorus member or at the door prior to the concert.

11 TransFamily New England, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free and confidential group meeting for parents and other family members of someone identifying as transgender, gender variant, and/ or intersex. Meetings held in Providence. E-mail jewcy15@gmail.com to be added to the contact list.

12 Annual Pride Interfaith Service – Central Congregational Church, 296 Angell Street, Providence 02906, at 7 p.m. scores of diverse faith communities come together to celebrate diversity – with special readings, poetry, music and sometimes, dance. All are welcome!

13 Gay Pride Bingo, 6-9:30 p.m. Riviera Bingo Palace, 1612 Elmwood Ave., Cranston. Doors open at 6; Bingo starts promptly at 7. $20 to play. 18+ event.

15 COLAGE, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. For children, youth and adults with one or more LGBT parent. Socializing and leadership development. The Gordon School, 45 Maxfield Ave., East Providence. For more information e-mail vjutras5@gmail.com.

15 RI Pride Festival & Nighttime Parade: “Love Forward,” 12 p.m., South Water Street, Providence. See www. prideri.com for more information.

19 Queer Book Club, 7 p.m. Books on the Square, 471 Angell St., Providence.

Book selection: The Miseducation of Cameron Post by Emily Danforth. Discount if book is purchased at Books on the Square. For more information e-mail queerbookclub@gmail.com.

26 TransPartners New England, 6:308:30 p.m. A safe, confidential space for romantic partners of transgender, gender-variant and/or intersex people to explore the impact of a partner’s TGI identity on their relationship

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and to connect with other partners of TGI people. Meetings are held in Providence. Contact partners@tginetwork.org for more information and meeting place.

July 2 Borderlands, 7-9 p.m. A peer-led support group open to transgender, transsexual, gender-variant, and/ or intersex people and to those who are exploring whether one of these identities is a good description of their experience. Meeting location is withheld for participant privacy. See info@tginetwork.org for more information.

5 Luna’s Ladies Night, 9 p.m. Roots Cultural Center, 276 Westminster St., Providence. Live music, DJ, special events. 21+ $6 cover. Every Friday. See www.lunaspvd.com.

9 TransFamily New England, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free and confidential group meeting for parents and other family members of someone identifying as transgender, gender-variant, and/ or intersex. Meetings held in Providence. E-mail jewcy15@gmail.com to be added to the contact list.

11 Melissa Etheridge, 8 p.m. Cape Cod Melody Tent, 21 West Main St., Hyannis, MA. For tickets and more information see www.melodytent.org or call (508) 775-5630.

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

17 Queer Book Club, 7 p.m. Books on the Square, 471 Angell St., Providence. Book selection: The Breeders

by Matthew Beier Discount if book

URI Feinstein Providence Campus presents

is purchased at Books on the Square.

For book selection and more information e-mail queerbookclub@gmail. com.

20 COLAGE, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. For children, youth and adults with one or more LGBT parent. Socializing and leadership development. The Gordon School, 45 Maxfield Ave., East Providence. For more information e-mail vjutras5@gmail.com.

31 TransPartners New England, 6:308:30 p.m. A safe, confidential space for romantic partners of transgender, gender-variant and/or intersex people to explore the impact of a partner’s TGI identity on their relationship and to connect with other partners of TGI people. Meetings are held in Providence. Contact partners@tginetwork.org for more information and meeting place. q

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Lesbians on the Loose out of the closet and out on the town!

...In which our heroes Annie & Melanie find themselves at the biggest LGBTQ events in Rhode Island.

Look for them where you see queer people coming together!

The Marriage Equality Bill was signed into law on May 2, a 17-year-long wait for the many advocates, activists, and political sponsors who tirelessly came back year after year, telling legislators that Rhode Islanders were not going away until they could marry the person they loved. Even when civil unions passed in July 2011, that didn’t stop the momentum. On the contrary -- it actually fueled the fire. It reinvigorated the desire and commitment to strive for equality because civil unions created a second-class citizens status, which is not equal.

A sense of protection and pride comes with the word “wife” or “husband,” a status that is easily recognized and understood across all communities, and the words “civil union” don’t hold the same strength.

Countless volunteers throughout the years were our voices; these are the true heroes of the day. They are the ones who stood up and challenged the law. Sad to say, many of them did not live to see the bill pass, but they were definitely there in spirit and in the hearts of all those who stood at the State House on that day in May. Dave Burnett & Larry Bacon of Newport have waited for this day since 1976.

This loving couple, who participated in the May 2 ceremony, has waited to get married for 37 years. They are the sweetest guys you will ever meet, and they helped put a face to the definition of the words commitment,

love, loyalty and forever.

I am excited that they now will be able to marry beginning on August 1 when the law takes effect, and I hope we are invited to the wedding.

It was a gorgeous day for equality! Supporters crowded the steps of the State House. In the crowd we saw friends, couples, families with their children, clergy from several different faiths throughout the state, and straight allies -- all there with beaming smiles and tears of joy. The Providence Gay Men’s Chorus, looking very dapper, sang “Going to the Chapel” – an appropriate song choice.

Celebrating with us were our fellow Options newsmagazine peeps Donny and Kyle, our good friend Nik, and Options’ editor, Kim. As we stood there we reflected on how we were about to witness history together.

The celebration continued at Lupo’s, where members of Rhode Islanders United for Marriage coordinated the party, complete with a spectacular marching band. Senator David Ciciline, Governor Chaffee and many other dignitaries attended to congratulate everyone on achieving marriage equality. What a truly historic day for Rhode Island and our community. q

For more information on upcoming events, check Options’ calendar and online at http://optionsri.org/calendar.

If you know of any events we should be attending, please email information to calendar@optionsri.org.

XO, Annie & Melanie

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Photography mostly by JDHS Photography, but one by Annie & Melanie and one from CNN.

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G.O.A.L. New England Brian Gay

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n the early morning hours of Saturday, June 28, a small gay bar in New York City’s Greenwich Village was raided.

While such raids were not uncommon at the time – 1969 -- the events that occurred on that particular evening were. The bar was the Stonewall. During the ensuing riots, queer folk took a stand, refusing to be passive, and instead stood up for themselves, resisting arrest and fighting back against their assailants – the police. On that night, the government not only sought to control queer people but also sent a message to the larger community that “if you are like these people, this is what will happen to you.”

The government achieved this through its representatives – the police.

was first forming, one Connecticut police officer -- a founding member -- was followed from her city into Northampton by a member of the Internal Affairs division of her department, so they could know what she was up to. Imperioso described another incident in the state of New Hampshire, where a female officer faced a great deal of discrimination. “She was physically assaulted by other members of her department.”

Despite this history, today there are groups of dedicated public safety officials around the country who work in support of, rather than against, the LGBTQ community. It is through the efforts of these regional Gay Officers Action Leagues that the relationship between police and LGBTQ folk is transitioning from that of the adversary to that of the advocate.

“When you’re on duty – police officer, fire fighter or EMT – if you get the call and you have to go into a burning house or [respond to] a domestic dispute… police and firefighters … have to be able to answer the call. People don’t really care who you go home to as long as you have their back when they need it.”

Since 1991, the Gay Officers Action League of New England (GOAL/NE) has been using their energy to send a message to those both in and out of uniform, one that seeks to protect rather than control and to encourage rather than intimidate. GOAL/ NE functions as a support group for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender sworn public safety officers as well as civilian employees of federal, state and local agencies. According to the group’s mission statement, this includes present and former criminal justice, firefighting service, EMS and military personnel.

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Today the picture does not seem so bleak. “No member or prospective member has come seeking advice or assistance for discrimination. A lot of those incidents may have happened in the past,” but today he says the atmosphere is less hostile.

The History GOAL/NE was formed in 1991 when its founder, Preston Horton, was advised by the members of GOAL/New York to start a new league to serve the New England states. At the time, the 23-year-old Officer (now Sgt.) Horton had been driving to New York City from Northampton MA to attend their meetings. At the suggestion of GOAL/ New York, Horton held the first meeting of GOAL/NE at his Northampton home in 1991, and not without some hesitation.

“I thought I was the only gay cop,” Horton confessed in a 2011 NPR interview. The Northampton police department supported him after coming out.

Acting president of GOAL/NE Anthony Imperioso relates how when the group

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A Diverse Group Imperioso noted the surprising diversity of experiences of the members. GOAL/NE has 250 active members today. The group voted to extend membership to military service people the same week that DADT was repealed. “It has allowed some folks to join without fear of reprisal or retribution from the military,” says Imperioso. “It provides a sense of relief.”

While GOAL/NE draws members from all six New England states, the largest num-

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bers are found in the Boston and Providence metropolitan areas. The least represented state is Vermont, something which the organization seeks to address through increased recruitment efforts this year. Each state also has a representative liaison. As for Rhode Island: “I hear good things about Rhode Island,” says Imperioso. “We haven’t had any issues with any officers filing discrimination complaints or being victims of discrimination.”

groups for Spanish-speaking public safety people. Says Imperioso, “GOAL is one of those, but more than that.”

The Work Like the people themselves, the work of the group is also quite diverse, ranging from social events and indirect service in the community to advocacy and education work

“This is New England – if you’re looking at a map, we are the part of the country that has gay marriage in all six states.” Some GOAL members were even instrumental in getting the laws changed in the New England states. A group like GOAL is just one of many diverse social and fraternal groups within the public safety community. There are Italian-American officer associations, Irish-American officer associations and

among their colleagues and peers.

According to their website, GOAL/NE “provides comprehensive training for police officers and other criminal justice professionals in an effort to enhance [their] knowledge of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) issues and laws. It is GOAL/ NE’s mission to provide law updates, statistics and community concerns to enable each law enforcement officer and agency to better provide services to their respective communities and to provide a safe working environment for GLBT professionals within the agency.”

And these trainings are complex.

“When we trained the Cambridge Fire Department,” notes Imperioso, “we did four classes each day. A two-and-a-half hour block, maybe three hours, for each group.

Twenty-five fire fighters.

And then another group of twenty-five after that for three hours.

Each week for about

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one month.” Issues covered in the class include topics such as Same Gender Domestic Violence, Bias Crimes, LGBT Community Issues, and LGBT Families. The trainings have gone on since the early 90s and have included the Massachusetts and Connecticut State Police, Boston, New Haven and Providence Police, MBTA Police and other Massachusetts Criminal Justice Training Centers. GOAL has also conducted trainings for college campus safety offices and probation departments.

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In November 2004, GOAL/NE brought the first ever LGBT-related training to the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) annual conference in Los Angeles, and in 2007, the group hosted the annual International Conference of Gay and Lesbian Criminal Justice Professionals, a weeklong convention, in Providence.

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In addition, GOAL/ NE engages in social activities as a group: they hold a banquet every year to celebrate the work they’ve done, and this year they have a trip planned to Ogunquit.

The group also participates in the Boston Pride parade. This year will be their largest representation to date, because the GOAL groups of New York and Montréal will be joining the march, to show support for New

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England in the wake of the recent Boston Marathon tragedy.

The Support Because of the work and its sometimestragic nature, public safety officers rely on support systems to help them cope. One of the services used in departments throughout the country is a chaplaincy. GOAL/NE has two chaplains, one of whom is Rhode Island’s own Rev. David Martins of St. Therese Old Catholic Church in Providence.

When asked what he hopes to contribute to the group, Rev. Martins says that he would like to build a greater membership for the organization. “Through my various forms of work in the community through the years I already know a lot of people who work in the fields that GOAL serves, so I am hopeful that will help.” The duties are wide ranging, he says, and include “spiritual assistance, counseling and offering support when an officer is killed in the line of duty.”

Rev. Martins holds GOAL members in high esteem. “These folks are the face of justice, compassion, and mercy to the communities in which they work. They further the message of equality.” q

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The Mythos of Phil Shaw

By Chris Cedroni

M

ythos of Homo is an ambitious project for artist Phil Shaw. It’s conceived as series of large-scale collages of local celebrities that have been transformed into bright, candy-colored deities. Most of his models are local drag queens, with YouTube sensation Davey Wavey added for good measure.

In bringing it to life, he had to wear a lot of hats. He coordinated photo shoots with Jonathan Luke O’Brien, his director of photography. He promoted the project. He had to fundraise. He had to overcome logistical nightmares. But now that he’s leapt over all those hurdles, he’s only got one small task ahead of him.

He has to actually produce the artwork.

Well, that’s not entirely true. The 23-year-old, who hails from Western Massachusetts, has already begun the long and delicate process by photographing his subjects and created mockups for Mythos, which he’s using as a conceptual blueprint. But he discovered rather early on that the actual creation was going to only be about 25 percent of the work.

“I wanted to do something that celebrates gay culture. I don’t like seeing the gay community get heated over things like politics or culture wars. That’s my message, and although some artists can go to dark places to get their message out, my work isn’t like that.”

Mythos will be featured during the month of June to celebrate Pride, with a gallery showing at one or more local spaces.

“I’m still in negotiations with venues,” he says.

“I wanted to do something that celebrates gay culture. ...That’s my message, and although some artists can go to dark places to get their message out, my work isn’t like that.”

Shaw plans to honor the gods as well as his artistic inspirations: Warhol, Da Vinci, and Michelangelo. He feels a link with artists who were, or were thought to be, gay.

He also blends their styles. In looking at the mockups, Warhol’s influence is unmistakable, combined with Da Vinci and Michelangelo’s embrace of classical mythology and the male form, as personified through Davey Wavey. And he chose drag queens because they span gender expression, embody personal transformation and, let’s face it, they’re just a lot of fun.

“Pop culture is at the center of every-

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thing I do,” he says. It’s a style he developed at Roger Williams University, where he received a BFA in Visual Arts and Graphic Design Communications, and was later crystallized in New York, where he worked for celebrity photographer Steven Klein.

Shaw will cut up portraits of the divas and use them as the first level of the finished product. He plans to photograph and print again, and possibly again, to achieve a dimensional quality. Although he draws his inspiration from pop culture, he gets by with a little help from his friends and family. “They were the first people I reached out to for funding, and the first to give,” he tells me. Even his boss, artist and author Anne Spaulter provided him with support. “She was the first person who really encouraged me, pushed me to go forward,” he says.

As a busy, energetic artist, he had to be quick and flexible, reducing some photo shoots to as little as five minutes. “I had to piggyback on the drag queen’s shows.

Nobody wants to spend two hours getting done up just for a five minute shoot,” he laughs.

“…therapy gives life a meaning and perspective that it doesn’t always have when we are right in the thick of it.”

Shaw says that the fundraising was the hardest part.

“It’s what I was afraid of in the beginning,” he says. “I had this little voice inside me saying “What if you don’t raise this money?”

~ Madanes

Fortunately, when he created the page on the popular fund-raising website Kickstarter, donations started coming in, some days in a surprisingly steady stream, some days in a trickle. “I was grateful for anything. I used to tell people: ‘Give what you can, and if you can’t give, just spread the message.’”

And they spread it successfully. As of this writing, the Kickstarter fund Shaw created exceeded its $4,000 goal in 60 days. The money will be used for cover print and photography costs, as well as materials and framing. The rest of the money will go to Aids Care Ocean State and RI Pride.

What’s the future of the Mythos? “I’d love to see it tour a few of the gay clubs downtown. They’re also for individual sale.” Phil says that he would also like to expand Mythos, filling his pantheon with the whole LGBT community.

And what’s next for the artist? “In August I’m producing and directing a movement piece for StyleWeek at the Biltmore” he says.

Again, it’s an ambitious project, one that he’s never tackled. I guess he has room for one more hat.

To read more about Phil Shaw, The Mythos of Homo or upcoming projects, visit his webpage philshawmedia.com or at facebook. com/philmshaw. q

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Premarital Agreements

Bell Street Chapel A Unitarian Universalist Congregation

Carol Ricker, Esq.

With same-sex marriage now a reality in Rhode Island, many long-term partners are seeking to formalize their relationship through a state-recognized marriage. Staterecognized marriage has many benefits, but also has many legal consequences of which people entering into such a union should be aware. Specifically, in Rhode Island, marriage creates a “marital estate.” The marital estate is comprised of several different assets. First, any property that one partner brings into the marriage can become a part of the marital estate. This happens if the other person in the relationship contributes to that asset’s appreciation or maintenance over time, or that property is subsequently held jointly by both spouses.

A very easy example is a premarital home.

In this example, one partner owns a house before the marriage. After the marriage, both partners contribute to the mortgage payment. If the parties later divorce, the contributing partner is entitled to any share of equity in that home that occurred during the course of the marriage due to his or her contribution. Under Rhode Island law, this is called “transmutation.” The home transmuted to marital property once the other partner began contributing to the upkeep and mortgage. Furthermore, if the preowning spouse puts the other spouse on the deed to the property, it can be considered a “gift” and therefore transmuted. Thus, something premarital has now become a marital asset to be divided between the parties.

Under Rhode Island law, there are many

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more factors to consider when contemplating a marital estate. However, most people on the eve of marriage are not contemplating the end of the marital relationship.

That being said, a premarital agreement can be a very important part of marriage relationship, especially for partners who have been in a committed relationship for a long period of time but kept their assets separate, and/or partners who have some disparity in property or accumulated assets at the time of marriage.

While never an easy topic of discussion, a premarital agreement can be a very useful tool to clarify assets, rights and liabilities, and to provide peace of mind to both future spouses.

One advantage of entering into a premarital agreement is that each party must identify the assets he or she is bringing into the relationship and which ones he or she desires to remain separate property during and potentially after the marriage. Additionally, this allows the future spouses to identify the assets that were purchased together and that they will consider marital assets moving forward. Finally, clarifying assets allows future spouses to be creative in assigning rights and actions should the parties divorce. For example, a couple might have jointly purchased a piece of art or furniture. The parties can specify that, upon a filing of divorce, the item is to be sold, and the proceeds spilt equally or along a percentage, or that one party to the marriage will keep this item. Thus, not only is the asset identified, but a specific action is prescribed

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upon the dissolution of the relationship.

Another advantage to a premarital agreement is that the parties identify their respective rights and liabilities – joint and individual. Again, the parties may have opened a joint bank account, or hold credit cards

or investment accounts jointly or in their individual names. Upon a filing of divorce, a premarital agreement will not only delineate rights to those assets, but also to debts that the parties may bring into the marriage.

Thus, if one party enters into the marriage

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While never an easy topic of discussion, a premarital agreement can be a very useful tool to clarify assets, rights and liabilities, and to provide peace of mind to both future spouses.

Premarital agreements have several statutory requirements for enforcement. Therefore, it is important to make sure that your agreement is drafted and executed according to Rhode Island law so that it is enforceable in court should the need arise. q

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A further advantage to a premarital agreement is that the parties can outline the right of each party to alimony. In a premarital agreement, alimony can be expressly waived, or a specific amount can be identified for one party with limits as to timeframe and amount. In Rhode Island, there are strict statutory requirements for the reward of alimony. A premarital agreement can outline the rights of the parties to alimony in order to simplify the divorce process.

Lastly, a premarital agreement allows both parties to proceed knowing that the future, in terms of the marital estate, is somewhat secure. Rather than a harbinger of a doomed marriage, a premarital agreement allows both parties peace of mind in knowing that, should the need arise to execute the agreement, each party put thought and effort into protecting his or her individual assets, the spouse’s joint assets, and his or her financial future.

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with an individual credit card debt in the amount of $10,000, the parties can agree that if the marriage should end, that debt will belong to the original cardholder. So, not only assets, but also debts can be determined and liabilities identified.

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Voices Bi-Visibility Katrina Chaves What does it mean to be bi? It’s pretty simple, actually. Bisexuals are capable of an attraction to more than one gender. We don’t want to hide in a closet, or deceive our partners. We are not any more greedy, promiscuous, conflicted or flexible than our Straight and gay counterparts. Like gay and straight people, we go to work, pay bills, drink coffee, get married, raise kids, listen

first same-sex date how “lucky” I was to be with a woman who “wasn’t judging” me. My 19-year-old self had no idea, up until that moment, that some lesbians had a problem with bisexuals. I found “butch-femme” roleplaying more oppressive than biphobia at the time, but the longer I was out, the more my orientation became an issue.

My community is often mistreated and marginalized by the people closest to us, and we often struggle just to find a community when coming out. Rather than feeling a sense of unity, as part of the Other-Than-

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•humansexual • AC/DC • genderblind • • switch hitter • biromantic • homoflexible • • pansexual • bisexual • genderblind • • fluid • ambisexturous • queer • panromantic • heteroflexible • switch hitter • biromantic • humansexual • fluid • bi • to NPR, stress over gray hair or learn to embrace it. And yet to live as a bi person can be rather complicated when LGT folks and heterosexuals fail to be decent allies.

As Rhode Island celebrates the legalization of same-sex marriage, we don’t hear any talk of what this will mean for bi individuals.

We hear how “gays and lesbians” will be affected by “gay marriage.” Few out-and-proud bi voices are heard in our local and national conversations on the subject. During the repeal of DADT, I witnessed the same ignorance that plays out during DOMA-related discussions and debates.

The lack of “B” in our dialogue is only one example of bi-erasure. I was told on my

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Straight fabric of our rainbow, we are indeed lucky to get any lip service from LGBT organizations.

Similar to the way many straight women regarded lesbians as a “lavender menace” in the 1970’s, viewing their existence as a threat to the image of the 2nd wave feminist movement, some lesbians of my generation perceive bi women as a threat to the gay community. There was/is a sense that bisexuals cannot stand in solidarity with their lesbian sisters and lovers, because we are surely going to cheat on/abandon them. This fear of “bisexual betrayal” is ridiculous and unfounded; personally, I have seen gay couples

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struggle with fidelity more than most bi men and women. In fact, my longest and most fulfilling same-sex relationship has been with my current partner, who also identifies as bisexual. There is no correlation between one’s sexual orientation and one’s ability/tendency to be faithful, just as there is no correlation between one’s orientation and moral compass.

This assumption is part of a broader misconception that bisexuals are more exotic/playful/curious/risqué/oversexed, which contributes to their objectification. This objectification is especially disturbing, given the results of a 2010 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Survey: Nearly half of all bi women are survivors of rape, compared with 13.1% of lesbian women and 14.7% of straight women.

Also, over half of all bi women have experienced some form of intimate partner violence. I am one of them.

As for bi men, circumstances aren’t any brighter. Bisexual men have higher rates of mental health problems than gay men, and often lead closeted, anxiety-provoking lives on the “down-low.” While female Hollywood stars have proudly come out as bi in recent years, (think Lady Gaga, Lindsay Lohan and Anna Paquin), we have few (if any) bisexual male icons in the public sphere. “It’s [female bisexuality] that’s tolerated because sometimes men see it as entertaining and exciting,” says the director of the American Institute of Bisexuality.

But bi men? They are not even “tolerated.” Bisexuals were blamed for spreading the HIV virus to the straight population, and thus began a very public process of collective shaming. Unsurprisingly, given the lack of acceptance and resources, and the persistent stereotyping, nearly half of all bisexuals consider suicide at some point.

The values that one may hold (e.g., monogamy vs. polyamory, Republican vs. Democrat, etc.) have nothing to do with one’s sexual orientation, yet misconceptions persist. Many are afraid and judgmental, buying into old myths that have plagued our community for years. Being bisexual in my generation has been compared to being biracial in the 1960’s (or today, for that matter), when a person of mixed race couldn’t feel accepted or at ease among one racial group or the other.

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While some gay men and women love to accuse bis of “passing” with heteronormative privilege, the truth is: We simply don’t. We can’t. Rather, we often live caught in the crossfire, facing discrimination in “the straight world,” isolation in “the gay world,” and loneliness in our personal lives. We hold our breath, fight for visibility and validation, and hope for the best. In my younger, less confident years, I bitterly wished I was straight, like most of my friends, or as gay as my lesbian sister. I thought if Nature had allowed me to be one or the other, all my problems would be solved. Thank goodness that, though the world hasn’t changed much, I’ve evolved beyond the point of caring what others think. If someone thinks it’s strange that I am attracted to both genders, then I limit my communication with them as much as possible.

In a world of black-and-white dichotomies, where many are coerced into residing at one end of the spectrum or the other, bisexuality is a beautiful reflection of our diversity, complexity, and capacity for love. q

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Celebrate R.I. Pride Month! nizations and for these and many other reasons, RI Pride is so happy to call them our friends and Grand Marshals for this special pride celebration. Congratulations Frank and Tony!

Ferri, Caparco & Bonauto named Grand Marshals; RI General Officers named Honorary Co-Chairs RI Pride is pleased to announce that Rep. Frank Ferri and his husband Tony Caparco, and civil rights legal pioneer Mary Bonauto have been named this year’s grand marshals for the 2013 “Love Forward” RI Pride celebration June 15.

Frank and Tony have been tireless advocates for equality. Their love and dedication

The headline in the NY Times March 27 issue, when speaking of Mary Bonauto, says it all: “In Fight for Marriage Rights, ‘She’s Our Thurgood Marshall’.” Inside the tightknit world of gay legal advocacy, Ms. Bonauto is a quiet celebrity — a lawyer and mother of twins who some say is almost single-handedly responsible for the samesex marriage cases now pending before the Supreme Court. As a top lawyer for Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders (GLAD), based in Boston, Mary has spent more than a decade plotting a careful strategy to advance same-gender marriage rights.

Mary’s help in Rhode Island has been deep and impactful for more than 20 years -- from our successful civil rights victories in the State House to suing the police for discriminatory actions, and much more. RI Pride and the entire community extends to Mary Bonauto our deepest thanks and the title of Grand Marshal for this special pride celebration.

moved the proverbial mountain at the State House by educating lawmakers about who we are and that who we love is not a threat.

They both have been generous in their financial support of LGBT community orga-

It’s rare that Rhode Island’s five general officers agree on anything, but in 2013 they all took a bold stance in support of marriage equality. Their unanimous support gave crucial evidence that now was the time for marriage equality. RI Pride is proud to recognize the leadership of our Honorary Co-chairs Lincoln Chaffee, Elizabeth Roberts, Gina Riamondo, Peter Kilmartin and A. Ralph Mollis.

THEA AUSTIN, Lead singer of the group SNAP, to headline PrideFest As the lead singer of Snap, Thea Austin took the world by storm. Her first single, “Colour of Love” soared into the Top Ten across Europe and reestablished Snap as a force to be reckoned with. Her second single, “Rhythm Is A Dancer,” was even more successful, taking a firm grasp on the number one position on numerous Billboard charts. Opening for Michael Jackson, she played to more than 70,000 fans nightly.

Thea also recorded her huge international dance hit song “I Can’t Get Enough” under the name of SOULSEARCHER. When Thea is not singing, she is actively involved with charity work, which is why, in September 2000, the City of West Hollywood proclaimed “Thea Austin Day,” for all of her work in the fight against AIDS. q

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Pride Day is June 15 For a complete listing of pride events – visit PrideRI.com or http://www.facebook.com/PrideRI or on Twitter @Pride_RI

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EVENT HIGHLIGHTS Thurs. May 30 RI Pride Parade Orientation, RI Pride Center, 1005 Main Street, #1105, Pawtucket, 6:00 p.m.

Fri. May 31

Hours: Mon-Fri 10-6 Sat. 10-4 Closed Sunday

Rainbow Flag Raising at City Hall, Kennedy Plaza, Providence, 6:00 pm.

Flag Raising Reception at Providence Melting Pot, Providence Place following ceremony.

Wed. June 5 and Tues. June 11 RI Pride Volunteer Orientation, RI Pride Center, 1005 Main Street #1105, Pawtucket, 7:00 p.m.

Thurs. June 6 Love Forward with Laughter, An All-Star Comedy Night, Comedy Connection, 39 Warren Ave., East Providence.

Doors open 7, Show at 8 p.m. Andrew Williams, Christina Thomas, Tammy Twotone, Mark Shea, Miss Kitty Litter and John Kelley. Tickets $20 to benefit RI Pride.

Sat. June 8 RI Pride goes to Boston Pride - RI Pride will once again participate in Boston Pride, with a themed float and contingent promoting RI Pride, and our own Gay Pride Festival.

Sun. June 9 Swim and Underwear Fashion Show, Regency Plaza Poolside, Washington Street, Providence, 6:00 p.m.

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Thurs. June 13 RI Pride Bingo. All proceeds benefit RI Pride. Riviera Bingo Palace, 1612 Elmwood Ave, Cranston.

Doors open at 6 p.m. bingo at 7 sharp!

Fri. June 14 RI Pride VIP Party, Luna’s @ The Roots 276 Westminster St. Providence, 7:00 p.m.

RI PrideFest – 12:00-8:30 – South Water Street/Providence River, Providence – New England’s second largest pride celebration features the largest LGBT Marketplace and Business Exposition in the region, with a mix of national and local entertainment.

Enjoy the Kids Pride Zone, specifically created for children, kids and families. RI PrideFest’s Main-stage Line-up of Entertainment 12:00 – 7:30 pm.

RI Pride’s Illuminated Night-Time Pride Parade – 8:30 p.m. (sundown), which begins at the corner of Fountain and Dorrance Streets, is New England’s only night pride parade.

It’s a dazzling display of floats, performing artists, marching groups and spectators that winds through downtown Providence and culminates at the Pride Reviewing Stand under the historic marquee of the Providence Performing Arts Center.

PORTRAITS

SAT. JUNE 15

Sun. June 16 RI Pride Hangover Drag Brunch – The Roi, 150 Chestnut Street, Providence. A delicious array of foods and cocktails, guaranteed to knock out that Pride hangover, with Jacqueline DiMera and special guest stars, excitement and lots of fun. Proceeds to benefit RI Pride.

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JDHS Photos 2013

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TGI Network our help. Contemplate how we can serve all members of the trans* community.

The Importance of a Strong Trans* Community and What You Can Do About It

Next, I urge you to take that big step and get involved (or even more involved). Donate your time and spirit to those who need you. You will feel better for helping build a stronger community, and you will benefit as a part of that community.

Janelle Heideman “Community” is a word that gets thrown around a lot. Members of the LGBT community, and trans* in particular, often use the word without really examining what it means. Some trans* individuals even question the need for a larger trans* community, highlighting differences among the various sub-groups (e.g., transgender, transsexual, genderqueer, genderfluid, gender non-conforming, etc.). However, that very diversity, along with the common adversity we all face, is why we need to continually strive to make our community stronger.

I am a recent transplant from the Detroit, Michigan area. Although I was always aware of the huge role the LGBT (and especially trans*) community played in my development, it is now even more clear how different my life would have been without that wonderful community of which I was a part.

It gave me the strength to start transitioning, and guidance to navigate the challenges along the way. A strong trans* community also gave me more great friends than most people make in a lifetime, and a feeling that I finally belonged. In short, I’ve learned that a strong community enhances our strengths and eases our shortcomings.

As a newcomer, I am thankful that I have found a trans* community here in Rhode Island. I have become active in the Borderlands peer support group through the TGI Network of Rhode Island and am still looking for other opportunities to get involved. I urge my fellow community members to consider how we can make our community even stronger. Consider who needs

June is LGBT Pride month. It is a time to celebrate what makes each of us special as well as the commonalities that bind us together. For that reason, there’s no better time than now to commit to building a stronger, healthier community. Happy Pride! For more information about how to get involved in the trans* community, check out TGI Network of Rhode Island’s website www.tginetwork.org.

3.5 x is2.275. * “Trans*” an umbrella term that refers to all of the identities within the gender identity/expression spectrum excluding cisgender, e.g., transgender, transsexual, genderqueer and transvestite. q

Welcoming LGBT professionals and their friends

A membership organization focused on: • Shared Member Contact Information • Professional Networking • Philanthropic Causes • Member benefits n e t w o r k

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For more information please contact Frank Maher at (401) 453-9276, visit RI AGP on Facebook or by email at gayprofessionalnetworkofri@gmail.com.

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SAGE/RI

Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders Sally Ann Hay

Busy Busy

We Need Your Input!

Gen Silent

Since writing our last column, SAGE has been busy! We enjoyed a wonderful dinner party at Blaze Restaurant as part of APRI’s Dining Out for Life at the end of April – meeting new friends and hearing great stories about how some mixed drinks got their names. The month of May kept us preoccupied with celebrating the Marriage Equality victory and then hosting RI’s first LGBT Health Fair at the State House. The Health Fair, put on in collaboration with RI’s Department of Elderly Affairs and the regional office of Medicaid/ Medicare, generated a lot of enthusiasm and interest – our goal was to help LGBT people of all ages (and the people who provide health care services to us) to recognize our unique health needs and the importance of seeking appropriate care. SAGE/ RI’s LGBT Senior Housing Committee – an amazing group of community members, policy makers and housing and health care professionals -- spent much of May developing a needs assessment to help inform the strategic plan they are working on…which is where you, dear readers come in…

The LGBT Senior Housing Committee has done a thorough review of LGBT senior housing options across the country. Now we want to hear from you – what are your thoughts, hopes and concerns about where and how you will live as you get older? It is easy to take part; just go online to https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/LGBTSeniorHousing and fill out the survey. If you have any difficulty accessing the survey, drop us a line at sageriinfo@gmail.com.

Help us design an LGBT senior housing plan that reflects what you want.

There has been much buzz about this remarkable film, and when we might get to see it again. It had its RI debut at Pride some years ago and has had people talking ever since. Filmed in Boston, the documentary follows six LGBT elders as they cope with the challenges of coming out at a very vulnerable time in their lives. Moving and provocative, this movie is one you will want to see. If you have already seen it, you will want to see it again. SAGE/RI is pleased to tell you plans are afoot for a fall movie night to feature Gen Silent.

We’re looking forward to seeing everyone at Pride again this year – do stop by and say hello at our booth June 15!

Can’t Believe It We finally have a mailing address and a telephone! While email (sageriinfo@gmail. com) continues to be the easiest way to communicate with us, you can now call us at 528-3259 and write to us at SAGE/RI, 235 Promenade Street, Suite 500, Box 18, Providence, RI 02908. What’s next? A web page, of course! Stay tuned for a launch announcement sometime this summer.

SAGE/RI (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders) addresses issues of concern to LGBT elders and is an organization of diverse people of all ages. For information on programs or to join SAGE/RI, drop us a line at sageriinfo@gmail. com or find us on Facebook as Sage/Rhode Island. 528-3259 q

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AIDS Care Ocean State Kalene Brennan

Show Us Your Pride, Rhode Island!

June kicks off the start of summer and the celebration of Gay Pride in Rhode Island. AIDS Care Ocean State (ACOS) is busy making safe-sex kits to hand out to the thousands of people who come out in celebration of RI Pride Weekend. We encourage everyone to visit our booth on Saturday, June 15 for FREE HIV and Hepatitis C testing and a free kit. If you can’t make it to our Pride booth on June 15, please call our Prevention Office at 781-0665 to schedule an appointment. Our Prevention Center is LGBT-friendly and confidential, and you get same-day test results.

Don’t forget to support the many local businesses and organizations that make Pride possible every year. For more information about ACOS, please visit our website at www.aidscareos.org. See you at Pride!

Largest Turnout Yet at Third Annual King of Queens Ten local contestants performed at the 3rd Annual King of Queens event on March 5 at the Colosseum nightclub in Providence.

Each contestant was given a Drag Mother to mentor her and help her choose her look, song, and performance style for the best new

drag show in town. The contestants did not disappoint the audience: there was glitter, glamour and fantastic stage presence. This year, King of Queens raised $7,798 -- our largest turnout to date!

A special panel of judges was selected to score the contestants on appearance, song choice, performance and crowd applause.

For the first time in King of Queens history, this year’s King of Queens was also voted Fan Favorite. The Fan Favorite is chosen based on tips the contestant receives from the audience during her performance.

We’re pleased to announce that Paul Conroy, performing as Jennie Talia, is the 2013 King of Queens. Jennie sang live to a mash-up of three songs and was mentored by Haley Star. After her crowning, Jennie did an encore of her winning routine and strutted across the stage with her sash and crown.

ACOS would like to thank all of our performers who put their hearts into this fundraiser, as well as all of the Drag Mothers who donated their time and expertise to make our newest drag queens gorgeous. In addition, we would like to thank Alysha Brock for all the time and energy she invested in this event; Tara Bonag, and Carol Mann for generously volunteering their

time; Keith Dube, Kalene Brennan and Stephen Hartley from ACOS for setting up and ensuring the evening ran smoothly; DJ Cisco for spinning the tunes all night long; the judges for providing their expertise; and all of the VIP guests. Finally, we must thank Anthony and Darren from the Colosseum for going above and beyond to make the evening fantastic for everyone.

ACOS Wants Your Spring Cleaning Donations ACOS wants your stuff!

If you have leftover clothing, furniture and household goods from your spring cleaning, donate them to ACOS. Our Donation Center is in need of spring and summer clothing and we are always in need of furniture and household goods. Donation Center hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Donation Center is closed on Thursdays. You may drop your items off at 557 Broad Street in Providence, or we can arrange to come and pick up your items. To schedule a pick-up, please call us at 781-5565. q

Get with your community; volunteer

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Youth Pride Inc. Kerri Kanelos

Happy Pride!

Volunteers Needed for CVS/ Caremark Charity Classic

Pridefest: Come visit our booth at Pridefest on June 15 to meet some of our young people, staff, and board members.

Parade: All youth (ages 13-23) are welcome to march with us during the Pride parade that night. Please meet us at the staging area to line up and get your YPI rainbow accessories. Let’s show Rhode Island the strength of our LGBTQQ youth community!

Party: We will be holding our annual sober Pride dance for youth (ages 13-23) right after the parade. Please check our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/youthprideri) or our website (www.youthprideri.org) for updates about location and time.

YPI is seeking volunteers of all ages! YPI has been accepted as a beneficiary of the CVS/Caremark Charity Classic golf tournament. This means that YPI will be eligible to receive a sizable donation from the proceeds raised through the Charity Classic.

In order to be eligible for the donation, YPI must provide volunteers to supervise and greet people in the VIP parking areas. All volunteers will receive free passes to the three-day golf tournament

to be used at any time outside of their scheduled volunteer hours.

The Charity Classic takes place Sunday, June 23 through Tuesday, June 25 at the Rhode Island Country Club in Barrington, RI. Volunteers are asked to sign up for two shifts, one of which must be on Sunday. Please call 421-5626 or e-mail Kristen at kristen@ youthprideri.org to sign up.

People under 18 will need parental permission to participate. Don’t wait! Please sign up today. This is a great opportunity for folks to turn their time into money for YPI. q

For over 30 years We’ve been handing our Clients The same old Line …

“SOLD” Barrington • CumBerland • east greenwiCh • narragansett • ProvidenCe • reloCation 401.245.9600 • 401.333.9333 •

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401.885.8400

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401.783.2474

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• 401.274.6740 • 800.886.1775

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RI LGBTQ Center Founding Board Created

Pride 2013

After a thorough process, the LGBTQ Center incorporators’ committee has named the first Board of Directors of the fledgling organization. The founding board is comprised of the following individuals:

We’ll have a fun booth at the Pride Festival on June 15 – stop by and say hello!

Mission

Antonio Aguilar Jeannie D’Agostino Brian Gay Stephen Hartley Fr. David Martins Andy Morris Ray Sirico Kim Stowell Mitch Zahn This Board has held its first meeting and has hit the ground running, with two

committees formed at the first meeting, and much productive discussion. There is still a great deal to accomplish before the LGBTQ Center can open its doors, most notably fundraising. Look for more information in the coming months about innovative ways you can be a part of making “Queer Headquarters” a reality!

The mission of the RI LGBTQ Center is to build and support the Rhode Island LGBTQ community by providing a visible, safe, inclusive, welcoming shared place. We will work to create greater understanding in our community and beyond, and provide a place to form cohesive bonds and move forward in strength.

RILGBTQCenter@gmail.com Like us on Facebook! q

Congratulations on Marriage Equality RI!!

Susan T. Perkins

Attorney at Law

CALL 401.PERKINS 462 Broadway, Providence, RI 02909 Office: (401) 273.9092 | Cell: (401) 575.7426 | Fax: (401) 331.1898 susan@susantperkins.com www.susantperkins.com Practicing in Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut

CALL 401.PERKINS

Getting Divorced?

Getting Married?

Anytime, Anywhere...I will perform your ceremony with love and compassion on one of the most important days in your life!

I can help you navigate through this, often times, difficult process.

I handle all aspects of divorce from simple uncontested divorces to high conflict, high net worth involving extensive assets and complex child custody issues including relocations.

A portion of every clients fee is donated to the fight against Breast Cancer

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Resources Help us help you: If you come across a resource listing that is incorrect or needs updating, please let us know! Drop a line to mshays@verizon.net.

NOTE: All phone numbers are in the 401 area code unless otherwise indicated.

Addiction Support Groups AA: Brothers in Sobriety, Community Church of Prov., Wayland & Lloyd Aves., Prov., 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.

Alcohol/Drug Helpline. RI Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence, 24-hr., (866) 252-3784.

als, public policy, research; lectures/conferences, patient/community education. Bradford Briggs, 863-6790. brunap@brown.edu; www.brown. edu/brunap.

Chiropractic Services: Free for unemployed HIV+ patients, Ronald P. Marsh, DC., 11 King Charles Dr., Portsmouth, RI; 683-1941.

Comprehensive Community Action Programs (CCAP) Medical, mental health, dental, social services. 311 Doric Ave., Cranston. 467-9610.

Also Coventry and Warwick. Sarah Bowman, LGBT Outreach.

Gay Al-Anon: Tues. 7:30 p.m., Congregational Church, 71 Park Place, Pawtucket, 726-2800.

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.

AIDS/Health Resources

FACTS (Family AIDS Center for Treatment & Support): See AIDS Care Ocean State.

ACT-UP (AIDS Coalition To Unleash Power), a group of individuals united in anger, committed to ending AIDS pandemic through direct action. Call Scott 640-3108. info@actupri.org.

Donations welcome!

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.

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.

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

AIDS Action Hotline: (800) 235-2331, MA only.

AIDS Care Ocean State (557 Broad St., Providence): case mgmt., emergency funds, mental health & nutrition support, FACTS Nursery, housing for PWAs, referrals, advocacy, ADa.m.S Clinic for adolescents, street outreach, ENCORE, education, HIV+ support groups. Sunrise Community Housing for people with HIV/AIDS. 18 Parkis Ave., Prov. 02907. 521-3603; www.aidscareos.org.

AIDS Project RI Division of Family Service of RI: Case mgmt., buddies, COBRA & dental services, emergency fund, mental health counseling, nutrition support, assessment & referral, wellness prog., advocacy, strength 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 tri-

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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.

HPV study for gay/bi men ages 18 -- 26. Receive free HPV vaccine and HIV testing. Must be HIVnegative. Call Gail at Miriam Hospital (7934335) or Email gyates@lifespan.org.

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.

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.

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Project ACT: Free Anonymous HIV Counseling and Testing. Walk-in Hours: Mondays 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Other hours by appointment only.

1 Washington St., Taunton, MA (508) 977-8146 Project Empower: Wellness prog. for gay, bi, questioning men in So. Coast MA. Info on HIV/ STD test sites & safe sex; social/support groups, therapists & health care referrals; & more. Community Counseling of Bristol Co., MA. (508) 828-6692 or www.projectempower.com.

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!

The Alley Cat/Dark Lady: 17 Snow St. Prov. 2730951 Downtown neighborhood bars. Sun.-Thur.

3 p.m.-1 a.m., Fri.-Sat. 3 p.m.-2 a.m. http:// thealleycat.net.

Bobby’s Place, 62 Weir St., Taunton, MA (508) 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 mike First & Third Sat. of each month. Film screenings and other public/private events. See us on Facebook and at www.BrooklynCoffeeTeaHouse.com.

Club Body Center: 257 Weybosset St., Prov. 2740298 www.clubbodycenter.com. Gay men’s sauna. Membership required. One-day pass available. Open 24 hours daily.

Club Gallery, 681 Valley Street., Providence. DJ, dancing.

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Deville’s: 345 South Water St., Prov. Lesbian, gay, straight, it’s all good. 383-8883, www.devillescafe.com.

Luna’s Ladies Night, Fridays 8 p.m. -- 1a.m. Female performers and DJs. 276 Westminster St., Providence. www.lunaspvd.com.

Providence Eagle: 198 Union St., Prov. 421-1447.

Leather, Levi, bear cruise bar. Sun-Thurs 3 p.m.1 a.m., Fri, Sat 3 p.m.-2 a.m.

Mega-Plex and Hush Providence: 257 Allens Ave., Prov. www.themega-plex.com. Gay men’s bathhouse. Open 24 hours daily. Membership required. One day pass available.

The Stable: 125 Washington St., Prov. 272-6950.

Newly renovated downtown bar. Pool table. Sun - Thurs noon - 1 a.m.; Fri - Sat noon - 2 a.m.

Tommy’s Lounge Gay/Lesbian Night each Friday (21-plus) Doors open 8 p.m. Music from 80’s, 90’s and today’s hits on the video screen. $5.00 cover. 99 India Street, Pawtucket RI 02860 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.

GLBT National Help Center Hotline. Local resources nationwide provided by social services agency. 888-843-4564. www.GLBTNationalHelpcenter.org.

NewportOut.com: LGBT Web site for Newport, RI. RILGBT-NEWS: Low-volume email distribution list for LGBT & AIDS news from RI. Not a discussion list. To subscribe: tinawood@cox.net.

United Way of RI Referral Line: 2-1-1 Youth Pride, Inc. HIV Peer Educators: discussion, games, thought-provoking and empowerment activities. Led by trained youth educators. Free.

421-5626.

Political & Legal Groups American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): 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 Human Rights.

BIGFLAG (Boston Immigration Group for Lesbians And Gays): social/support for LGBTs affected by immigration discrimination. (617) 499-9433.

Brown University Queer Alliance: student advocacy and support organization. 683-3062. Email:

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246-0111.www.bccucc.org

queer@brown.edu 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.

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

Lambda Legal Defense & Education Fund: 120 Wall St., Suite 1500, NY, NY 10005; (212) 8098585, Fax: (212) 809-0055.

Lawyers for Equality and Diversity (LEAD): Advocates for lgbt causes. lawyersforequality@gmail. com 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. PO Box 5884, Providence RI 02903 The Next Thing (TNT): political and support group for queer people of color located at Brown University. Contact the Brown Queer Alliance, 8633062.

Rhode Islanders United for Marriage: Broadbased grassroots coalition working to achieve the unique protections and recognition of civil marriage for all loving couples in the state. 2741323. Office 3 Center St., Providence. (PO Box 5883, Providence RI 02903) www.RIUnitedforMarriage.org.

RI Commission on Prejudice and Bias: hate crime awareness training program www.hatecrimeri. org.

RI Human Rights Commission: Anti-discrimination law enforcement agency with jurisdiction in employment, housing, public accommodations and credit, 180 Westminster St., 3rd floor Prov.

Phone: 222-2662. Fax: 222-2616, TDD: 2222664.

RI Patient Advocacy Coalition: legalization of marijuana use for medical purposes. www.RIpatients.org.

RI Socialist Action: adgagneri@gmail.com. 9525385. Español: walsil@cox.net. 351-3414 Servicemembers Legal Defense Network: Assisting active duty service members affected by the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. PO Box 65301, Wash., DC, 20035; (202) 328-3244, ext. 100, sldn@sldn.org, www.sldn.org.

Straight But Not Narrow Coalition: Straight support for LGBT, PO Box 2591, Newport, RI 02840; 847-7637.

Religious Resources All Saints’ Memorial Church, 674 Westminster St., Providence. 751-1747 www.allsaintsmemorial. org. asmcri@verizon.net Amicable Congregational Church (UCC), 3736 Main Rd., Tiverton. Open & Affirming. Sunday worship 10:00 a.m. Pastor William Sterrett, 624-4611. Email amicablechurch@aol.com Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists, email: mail@WABaptists.org.

Barrington Congregational Church (UCC) “the white church”, 461 Old County Rd., Barrington.

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Bell Street Chapel (Unitarian Universalist), A Welcoming congregation: 5 Bell St., Prov., Rev. Ann Willever. 273-5678, www.bellstreetchapel.org.

Beneficent Congregational Church (UCC), in the heart of Providence at 300 Weybosset St. An Open & Affirming congregation since 2001.

Visit us Sundays at 10 a.m. or on the Web at www.beneficentchurch.org. Co-Pastors Todd & Nicole Yonkman, 331-9844.

Berean Baptist Church, a safe and welcoming place for all God’s children. 474 Chapel St., Harrisville, RI. www.bereanri.org; bereanbaptist@verizon.net. 568-5411. Worship 10 a.m. Sundays.

Calvary Episcopal Church, Open and welcoming.

158 Broad St., Burrilville, RI. 568-3888. www. calvaryepiscopal.us.email, calvary125@aol.com.

Calvary United Methodist Church of Middletown, 200 Turner Rd., Middletown, RI 02842. 8476181. Ask Amy about LGBTQ Early Dementia support group.

Central Congregational Church (UCC), where we believe God is still speaking. Services Sunday, 10:30 a.m. An Opening & Affirming Congregation. 296 Angell St., East Side of Providence.

331-1960. www.centralchurch.us.

Channing Memorial Church, Unitarian Universalist, A Welcoming Congregation, 135 Pelham St., Newport. Call 846-0643 or visit www.channingchurch.org.

Charter Oak Grove ADF, an open and welcoming congregation of neopagan druids in CT. www. charteroakadf.org. Email charteroakadf@gmail. com.

Christ Church in Lonsdale (Episcopal), 1643 Lonsdale Ave., Lincoln. Services 8 and 10:30 a.m. www.christchurchlincoln.org. 725-1920.

Church of the Epiphany, 1336 Pawtucket Ave., Rumford. 434-5012. A diverse Open & Affirming Episcopal congregation. www.epiphanyep.org Church of the Holy Paraclete, Independent Old Catholic; Mass every Sunday at 6 p.m. 155 Douglas Ave., Providence. http://holyparaclete. org; Fr. Jakob Lazarus 218-0706.

Edgewood Congregational Church (UCC) Open & Affirming, 1788 Broad St., Cranston. 461-1344. www.edgewoodchurchri.org.

Emmanuel Episcopal Church. 120 Nate Whipple Highway, Cumberland RI 02864. 658-1506.

First Congregational Church in Bristol, an Open and Affirming Congregation. 281 High Street, Bristol. Pastor Dan Randall, 253-7288.

First Unitarian Church. A Welcoming congregation at One Benevolent St., Prov.; 421-7970. Services Sunday 10:30 a.m.

First Unitarian Church. 71 8th St., New Bedford, MA 02740. (508) 994-9686.

First Universalist Society, Franklin, MA: 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.

508-543-4002. Welcoming congregation, mar-

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riage ceremonies. www.uufoxborough.org Grace Episcopal Church in Providence, 175 Mathewson Street, Providence. 331-3225.

Immanuel Lutheran Church: A Reconciling in Christ congregation, 647 N. Main St., Attleboro, MA 02703. Pastor Sandra Demmler Damico (508) 222-2898, www.immanuellc.org.

Interweave at Channing UU Church in Newport, 135 Pelham St. A membership organization for the spiritual, political and social well-being of LGBTQ persons -- and their allies -- confronting oppression. 846-0643.

Mathewson St. Church (United Methodist), 134 Mathewson St., Prov., 331-8900.

Meditation: Gay Men’s Meditation Experience.

Relax and connect. Third Tues. of each month in Cranston, 7 -- 8 p.m. Tim, 944-0723. Fee applies.

Mercy of God Community: Christian, inclusive religious order. If you feel called, please visit our Web site: www.mgc.org.

Murray Unitarian Universalist Church, 505 N. Main St., Attleboro, MA, 02702 Rev. Sandra D. Fitz-Henry. Marriage & commitment ceremonies for all. (508) 222-0505 www.murrayuuchurch.org Newman Congregational Church, Open & Affirming. 100 Newman Ave., Rumford, RI. 43114742.

Newport Congregational Church: UCC. Rev. Hayes & Rev. Baker. Open & Affirming. 73 Pelham St., Newport. 849-2238 or nccucc@newportcongregationalchurch.org.

Park Place Congregational Church, 71 Park Pl., Pawtucket, 726-2800.

The Pub Church: A church that meets in a pub!

Saturdays, 5 p.m. at The Dugout, 722 Commonwealth Ave. Boston. Open & Affirming.

Email thepubchurch@gmail.com. Location may change.

Pilgrim Lutheran Church, an inclusive congregation: 1817 Warwick Ave., Warwick. 739-2937 Pilgrim United Church of Christ. Open and affirming. 635 Purchase St., New Bedford. 508-9975684.

St. Peter & St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church: 25 Pomona Ave., Prov.; 272-9649. Email.stpanda25@ verizon.net. www.stpetersandstandrews.org.

Saint Therese Old Catholic Church, Open & Affirming, Sunday Mass at 10:30 p.m. at 134 Mathewson St., Providence. Fr. David Martins, 263-4296. www.saintthereseocc.org Second Congregational Church of Attleboro (UCC) Open & Affirming. 50 Park Street, Attleboro, MA. Sunday worship 10 a.m. (508) 222-4677, www.attleborosecondchurch.org Seekonk Congregational Church: 600 Fall River Ave., Seekonk, MA. 02771, (508) 336-9355, Rev. Joy Utter, www.scc-ucc.com.

Temple Agudas Achim: GLBT-friendly, Reconstructionist cong.

Rabbi Elyse Wechterman. 901 No. Main St., Attleboro, MA. (508) 222-2243 or www.agudasma.org.

Temple Beth-El: GLBTwelcoming.

Rabbi Sarah E. Mack. 70 Orchard Ave., Prov., RI 02906. 331-6070

Temple Emanu-El, Sessions St. & Morris Ave., Providence. A welcoming Conservative congregation. Rabbi Wayne Franklin, 331-1616. www.teprov.org

Temple Habonim: a warm, Welcoming Reform congregation. Rabbi Andrew Klein, 165 New Meadow Rd., Barrington, 245-6536. www.templehabonim.org.

Temple Sinai: A Welcoming Reform Temple. Rabbi Peter Stein, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston, RI. 9428350. www.TempleSinairi.org.

Unitarian Society of Fairhaven (MA): 102 Green St., Fairhaven, MA 02719; (508) 992-7081.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of So. County: 27 North Rd., Peace Dale, RI; 783-4170 or Val 789-7282. www.uusouthcountyri.org.

St. Augustine’s Church and Episcopal Center at URI: 35 Lower College Rd., Kingston. 783-2153 www.staugustineURI.com.

Westminster Unitarian/Universalist Church: 119 Kenyon Avenue, East Greenwich, RI 02818.

884-5933

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.

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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.

Biversity Boston: Mixed-sex social network. Bimonthly brunches and other social events. http://biversity.org.

Boston Bisexual Women’s Network: Social activi-

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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

Professional networking and philanthropy. gayprofessionalnetworkofri @gmail.com. 453-9276.

Find us on Facebook!

Riverside Church (U.C.C.) 15 Oak Ave., Riverside, RI. 433-2039. www.rcc-ucc.com

St. Francis City Ministry at the Church of St. Mary, 535 Broadway, Prov. Office of LGBT Outreach 353-1422

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.

RI Association of Gay Professionals

United Church of Christ: Coalition for LGBT Concerns. 13 Steven Circle, S. Kingstown, RI 02883, Ray Bradley at 782-3871.

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Subscribe at www.biwomenboston.org.

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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.

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.

Lesbian Writers Group, Rochambeau Library, Hope St., Providence. Mondays 7 -- 8:30 p.m.

Writing exercises, support. No critiquing or workshopping. Free. Russian or Computer Room.

Men’s Card Group: New group in formation. E-mail johninprov@gmail.com or call John 261-9715.

Men’s Gay Camping: In RI, CT, MA. Gatherings organized for tents to RVs during Spring, Summer and Fall. www.webspawner.com/users/gaycamping/index.html or call 277-0075 or email gaycamping@gmx.com.

Mixed Borders Gardening Group: Gardening and more! Monthly meetings, all welcome! For more information: www.MixedBorders.com or E-Mail Mixedborders@cox.net Opera Club: last Sunday of each month at 1:00 p.m. Enjoy hearing and attending. Email Dave at BrettCornellpi4@aol.com Pawtuxet Pride: GLBTQ folks & friends in Pawtuxet Village (Cranston and beyond). All welcome.

Call Ed at 345-1264 or email EDZL@aol.com.

Providence Gay Men’s Chorus: Mon, 7-9:30 p.m., Beneficent Church, 300 Weybosset St, Prov..

New season rehearsals begin in January and August. Singers and nonsinging volunteers welcome. www.provgmc.org.

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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 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 Lesbian Social Club: social gatherings for women. heylari@yahoo.com or call 272-2962.

RI Parents Pride: Gay parents socializing together with their children. Contact Melanie, 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 or call Steve at 996-3010.

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

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.

DARTS: Beantown Soft-Tip Dart 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 Women’s Association: Lesbian social group; age 21+; dances/events. www.RIWA.net

RI/S.E. MA Flag Football: Sats. 10 a.m. All levels and genders. mbs1994ever@yahoo.com

SAGE/RI (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders) Advocacy, education and social events for LGBTQ seniors. sageriinfo@gmail.com, 528-3259, on Facebook: “Sage/Rhode Island.”

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

SEMASSMEN: Social group for GBQ men of S.E. Mass and RI to foster strong friendships.Semassmen-subscribe@yahoo groups.com or email moderator rlevass @yahoo.com.

Trans Queer RI: friendship, fun activities, and support for transgender, queer & like-minded people. Gatherings third Sunday of each month.

Email trans.queer.ri@gmail.com.

T.W.I.S.T. Project: Program for gay and bisexual men in Fall River/New Bedford area. Drop-in center, referrals, condom distribution, social groups. Coffee night Thursdays 7 – 9 p.m. (508) 672-0378; www.myspace.com/twistprogram.

UNISONG: For unity through song. Non-performance monthly singing session. www.unisong. net or jlglass53@aol.com WomenRIsing. Feminist Chorus. Director Nancy Rosenberg. www.womenrisingchorus.org.

Email: contact@womenrisingchorus.org.

Yankee Lambda Car Club: Regional club for GLBT people interested in vintage & specialty cars. www.yankeelcc.com, sisherwood@aol.com.

GOLF: Golf4All www.golf4all.net (617) 450-8682.

ICE HOCKEY for WOMEN: email gwick@kersur.net.

Gail Wickstrom

KICKBOXING or BOXING for WOMEN: Tues & Thurs evenings. Christina, 996-5425. www.rondeauskickboxing.com MARTIAL ARTS: Main Street Martial Arts. Nonprofit, welcoming dojo and community center.

Scholarships available. 1282 No. Main St., Providence. 274-7672. www.mainstma.org.

OUTDOORS: Chiltern Mountain Club, New England’s LGBT outdoor recreation club. www. chiltern.org. Email events@chiltern.org.

ROWING: Boston 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.

Sports PRIDESPORTSBOSTON: Network of twenty-plus gay sports leagues/teams in Boston area: www. pridesportsboston.com 617-937-5858 Gay sports in Boston and beyond: www.gaysports. com. Email info@gaysports.com.

BASKETBALL: Boston Gay Basketball League:

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SOCCER: Boston Strikers Soccer Club www.bostonstrikers.com (617) 937-5858 Ext. 9.

SOFTBALL: Renaissance City Softball League.

New players and boosters always welcome. 2267771-642 or rcsl_commish@cox.net. Visit www. providencesoftball.org Beantown Softball League: (617) 937-5858, Ext. 1, www.beantownsoftball.com.

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

Students & Youth Bristol Community College Gay/Straight Alliance (BCC/GSA); Steven Camara, Advisor (508) 678-2811 Ext. 2391, BCC-H202, 777 Elsbree St., Fall River, MA 02720.

Brown University Queer Alliance: umbrella org. 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 Association: call LGBT Resource Center: 863-3062 Brown University LGBTQ Resource Center: 8633062, e-mail lgbtq@brown.edu Bryant Pride: Bryant College Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual Student Association. 232-6389.

CCRI Triangle Alliance: Informal student GLBTQ group, 400 East Ave., Warwick. Call 825-1125 or www.ccri.cc.ri.edu/triangle.

COLAGE. Support and social activities for children of LGBT Parents: Meets third Saturday of the month rhodeisland@colage.org. Coordinator Veronica Jutras (vjutras5@gmail.com) 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 Roger Williams University LGBTQ & Allies group: S.A.F.E (Sexual Advocacy for Everyone): Weekly meetings in Intercultural Center; speakers, social and awareness events; Pride Week in April.

Email: saferwu03@gmail.com.

Facebook: S.A.F.E. Salve Regina University Gay Straight Lesbian Bisexual Alliance (GSLBA), 100 Ochre Point Ave., Newport. Sister Johnelle, Lucianij@salve.edu SeaQuel: Southeast Asian Queers United for Empowerment and Leadership. Bi-weekly Sunday meetings. 383-7450. myspace.com/seaQuel; Email SeaQuel@Prysm.us S.H.E.P.A.R.D. (Stopping Homophobia, Eliminating Prejudices and Restoring Dignity): Providence College, 1 Cunningham Sq., Prov., RI 02918, E-mail pclgbt@gmail.com. 865-1631

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The Trevor Project: The only nationwide, aroundthe-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for LGBT youth. Also offers social networks.

866-4-U-TREVOR; 866-488-7386. thetrevorproject.org.

The Next Thing (TNT): Political & support group for queer people of color at Brown Univ. Call Brown Queer Alliance, 863-3062.

University of RI Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer & Questioning (LGBTIQ2) association dedicated to campus inclusiveness among staff, faculty, alumni and students. gsimonelli@advance.uri.edu. 874-5808.

Youth Pride Inc./The Way Out: Support, education & advocacy for LGBTQQ young people ages 1323.Drop-in center at 743 Westminster St., Prov.

02903; Mon.---Thurs. noon--8 p.m, Fridays 4 -8 p.m., Sat. 10 -- 5. The Way Out peer support group Tues., 5 p.m. Gender Spectrum support group Tues. 5:30 p.m. Ask about the 14-andunder day. Call 421-5626 or email kerri@youthpride-ri.org Web: www.youthpride-ri.org.

2700 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.

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

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 Fathers of Greater Boston: support: E-Mail outreach@gayfathersboston.org. www.gayfathersboston.org.

Support Groups & Social Services

Gay Fathers Support Group in RI. Tom Fronczak, LICSW, 431-2953. Fee applies.

Abuse Victims and Survivors: Support on phone for LGBTQ victims & survivors of partner abuse. Confidential peer-led groups. Hotline (617) 742-4911. Network/LaRed. Email office: advocate@tnir.org

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

Adoption Options: Non-sectarian help for LGBT and straight adoptions. Betsy Alper, Jewish Family Service, 959 No. Main St., Providence.

331-54337.

Gay Men’s Domestic Violence Project: support, info, shelter. (800) 832-1901, www.gmdvp.org.

Foster parents needed: Stipend, assistance, training provided by Family Resources Community Action. 766-0900, ext. 1213.

Foster parents needed, for newborn to age six. www. childrensfriendri.org. 276-4318 Foster parents sought: Training, stipend, support provided for nurturing families. Gregary Wright, Family Service of RI, 331-1350 Ext. 3305 Behavioral health outpatient services in Fall River area, inclusive of LGBT: S.T.E.P. (508-)2351012; T.W.I.S.T. (508) 672-0378 Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center, offering resources for victims of domestic violence. 7233057.

Catholic Parents Outreach: Always Our Children, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, Sacred Heart Convent, 395 Chestnut St., Springfield, MA. Call Ann, (413) 736-6803.

COLAGE (Children of Gays): A national movement of people with one or more LGBT parents. Social activities, education & advocacy.

Meets 3rd Saturday of the month. rhodeisland@colage.org. Coordinator Veronica Jutras (vjutras5@gmail.com) Compass: FTM trans info, support and social group, meets in Boston First Thursday, 7 – 9 p.m. www.compassftm.org, compassftm@comcast.net Crossroads RI: Hotline (Travelers Aid): (800) 367-

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Gay Officers Action League /New England (GOAL NE), gay/lesbian/bisexual law enforcement officers, sworn & civilian. Fire, rescue and publicly employed EMS. P.O. Box 587, Boston, MA 02117; www.goalne.org; info@goalne.org; (617) 376-3612. Confidential.

Gay Share. Coming Out? Gay men’s support group Wed., 7:30 p.m. No fee. Call Tom/Mike, 3699448 or www.gayshare.org; Info@gayshare.org.

Helpline for LGBT Youth: Trevor Helpline, call 24/7 for crisis and suicide prevention. Also social networks. 866-4-U-Trevor HIV+ Gay Men’s Support Group at AIDS Care Ocean State, 18 Parkis Ave., Prov., RI. 5213603. Refreshments served. New members should call Scott: 640-3108 Kathys’ Group: free support group for lesbians with cancer or any life-threatening illness. Meets monthly in Providence. Partners and caregivers welcome. Call 888-5KATHYS. Lesbian Moms of Southern NE: discussion, support and activity list for lesbian mothers. www. topica.com/lists/LMOSNE or ForADancer63@ aol.com.

Mantalk of S.E. Mass: Social/Discussions for gay/ bi/curious men 18+. Taunton every Thursday, and New Bedford 1st Tues. of the month, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Confidential. Drug/alcohol-free.

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

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PFLAG: Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians & Gays: Greater Providence chapter serves all of RI and Southeastern Mass.: First Wednesdays, 6:45 p.m. at Met School, 325 Public St., Providence.

751-7571; www.pflagprovidence.org; pflagprovidence@verizon.net; Cape Cod: Falmouth: Last Tuesday of each month, 6:30 p.m. Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Falmouth, 840 Sandwich Rd., E. Falmouth. Brewster: Third Mondays, 7 p.m., First Parish U.U. Church, 1969 Main St. joann@pflagcapecod.org.

RI Coalition Against Domestic Violence: Info at 467-9940; 24-hour 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.

Samaritans: 24-hour hotline for suicidal, lonely, despairing, depressed. (800) 365-4044 (RI only), 272-4044; www.samaritansri.org.

Sexual Health Education & Advocacy Program: HIV, sexual wellness, domestic violence risk reduction. Free, confidential, LGBTQ-friendly and bilingual (Spanish). Contact Aida (amanduley@sojournerri.org) or call 861-6191, ext.

121. No caller ID is used; calls are blocked for safety.

Sojourner House: Support, shelter, advocacy, info for people in abusive relationships. Call us at 861-6191 We DON’T use Caller ID; calls are blocked for safety.

Straight Spouse Support: Straight spouse professional offers peer support and referrals. Jane Harris, (413) 625-6636. Email jcmalinski48@ gmail.com.

Straight Spouses Group: Visit www.StraightSpouse. org. for info on groups and online support.

TGI Network of R.I.: Support, advocacy for Transgender, Transsexual, Gender-variant, Genderqueer & Intersex people. www.tginetwork.org. info@tginetwork.org.

Transgender Support Group: Cape Cod (508) 3624435 Trans Family New England. Group in formation for parents of transgender children. Email jewcy15@gmail.com Trans Partners New England: Provides romantic patrons of transgender people with a confidential, safe space to explore the impact of a loved one’s gender identity on their relationships, and to connect with other loved ones of transgender people. Meetings in Providence, last Wed. of each month, location unpublished for privacy.

Email partners@tginetwork.org.

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

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

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

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Labor Day Weekend Newport White Party to benefit Options Newsmagazine We’ll be kicking off Labor Day weekend & closing out the summer in style right on the Newport waterfront!

Wear your best whites (while you still can) at this Miami inspired, sexy & vibrant cocktail event!

Newport City Easton's Beach Rotunda on the Water Friday August 30th Purchase tickets today: 7:00 p.m. www.optionswhiteparty.eventbrite.com

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