Options Newsmagazine-October 2013 by Options Magazine

Photo by Jorge Ureña

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In this issue:

3 News Briefs 6 Calendar 9 Weddings 10 Project Webber 13 Voices 14 Getting Older? 16-17 White Party Photos 19 AIDS Project Rhode Island 20 Imperial Court 22 AIDS Care Ocean State 24 Youth Pride Inc. 25 SAGE 26 TGI Network 27 Resources q

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Let’s get dozens of opinions before we see one doctor. You want to know if a doctor has a good reputation within

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your community. We’re helping you do the research. Our new online rating tool lets members rate and comment on their doctors, and search for new doctors based on others’ feedback. So even when you’re seeing a physician for the first time, you’re not going alone. To learn more, visit bcbsri.com/together.

Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

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News Briefs

Openly gay Smiley explores Providence mayoral run

By Kim Stowell

of visitors. The theme of this year’s was “coming out,” and one of the foreign guests who attended Tuesday’s discussion on coming out was Rhode Island Congressman David Cicilline. In a brief interview for Radio Prague he explained what motivated him to support the festival in person.

Brett Smiley announced last month that he will pursue the Mayor’s office if Angel Taveras decides not to run for reelection. The Chair of the Providence Water Supply Board and the founder and owner of a development, election compliance and advocacy business, Smiley is working with Myrth York, Christine West and Lauren Nocera.

Rep. Cicilline Supports Prague Gay Pride

“I think it is very important to support Prague Pride and pride celebrations around the world because they raise the visibility of our community and make an important point [about] how critical it is that we recognize the rights of gays and lesbians to be free from discrimination of any kind…. So I am thrilled to be here and very proud that our ambassador has been such a strong supporter of Prague Pride.”

NYC man stabbed to death in anti-gay attack in broad daylight Steven Torres, a 22-year-old Bronx man, has been charged with second-degree murder as a hate crime for stabbing 69-year-old Ever Orozco to death in Queens on September 16. Initially it was thought that the motivation for the attack was the victim’s cell phone, but it is now believed that the murder was committed because the victim was perceived to be gay. Bystanders ran after Torres and held him for police until he was taken into custody.

Anti-LGBT activists vow to recall CA transgender law Opponents of California’s new transgender student protection law have formed a group aimed at overturning the legislation through a statewide ballot measure. The group, Privacy for All Students, needs to gather 504,760 signatures in order put the issue before voters in next year’s elections. The law in question allows transgender students to use facilities assigned to the gender with which they identify, rather than the one of their biological sex.

GirlSpot re-opens The Saturday night women’s club, somewhat transient in the years before it closed completely in 2012, is back in action, now located at Loft 71 on Richmond Street. Billed as “One of the hottest lesbian nightlife scenes in New England,” the party starts every Saturday night at 8 p.m. www.girlspotri.com.

Cochrane Street

After PA Judge’s ruling, legal questions remain for married couples

The Czech capital hosted Prague Pride 2013 last month, a weeklong series of open-air performances, concerts, exhibitions and debates. Now in its third year, the festival has become the biggest of its kind in Central and Eastern Europe, attracting thousands

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Last month’s decision by a Pennsylvania judge to halt the issuance of marriage licenses to same-gender couples does not address the validity of the 174 marriage licenses that have already been handed out to gay and lesbian couples in the state. The county clerk who defied state law in issuing the licenses and at least one attorney in the state say they believe the licenses are valid. Separately, the ACLU has initiated a challenge to the state’s ban on marriage equality.

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A New York community board is expected to vote to rename a block in Greenwich Village – Washington Place, between Grove St. and 6th Ave – after Sergeant Charles H. Cochrane, who came out of the closet in a City Council meeting in 1981 when he testified in Continued on Page 5

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From the Editor’s Desk While we here at Options were recovering from August’s White Party, the season seems to have changed. So glad we had that last chance to strut those whites! What a night it was. I would be remiss not to thank all of those who made our First Annual White Party such a success: All of our volunteers and friends, especially Kyle Marnane, Kitty Litter and Rhode Island Pride, the latter of whom staffed our bar as if they were falling off a log; our sponsors Keel Vodka, AIDS Care Ocean State, Andy Morris, Robin Hollow Farm and Brooks Custom Cakes. And our photographers —Jorge Ureña and Jack HartweinSanchez—did a marvelous job capturing the glamour of the evening. For those of you who came, you were so beautiful! The setting was gorgeous, and everyone seemed to be shimmering. The sunset provided a breathtaking backdrop, as did the spinning carousel on the deck.

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

to stay tuned. Meanwhile, in this issue, I hope you’ll read our heart-felt tribute to José Sarria. This man, known to so many as the Widow Norton, was a visionary and an international freedom fighter, and he had a special spot in his heart for Rhode Island. We are proud to have the words of so many who knew him within our pages this month. We’re also happy to report on the progress made by Project Weber – a pioneering program to help male sexworkers, with a small but very dedicated team behind it, proudly carving out a place for itself in RI.

October 2013 q Vol. XXXII, No. 9 Managing Director Kim Stowell editor@optionsri.org Writers Marcia Blair, Austin Bourassa, Christopher Dalpe, Elda Dawber, Brian Gay, Amy Stein, Sally Ann Hay, Kerri Kanelos, A.J. Metthe, Belle Pellegrino Copy Editors Nathaniel Zane, Brian Gay, Steve Kagan, Joseph Morra, Maria Phillips, Jim Seavor, Myra Shays Production Chris Cedroni

One last thing: Be sure and check out our calendar too – there is a lot going on in the LGBTQ community, and you will want to catch some of it. Do something gay this month!

Calendar Editor Lisé Schwartz calendar@optionsri.org Resources Editor Myra Shays mshays@verizon.net

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For those who missed the event, we hope you will enjoy the sampling of photos we have amassed in this issue. We’ll begin planning another of our signature events soon, so you will want

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support of a gay rights bill. “I am very proud of being a New York City policeman.” Cochrane said. “And I’m equally proud of being gay.” Cochrane testified moments after a police official claimed he knew of no gay cops. Cochrane’s coming out inspired the formation of the Gay Officers Action League. The street to be honored was chosen because it is the home of St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, which was the target of bomb threats after Cochrane came out. Cochrane died of cancer in 2008, at age 68.

Stephen Crohn, 66, Furthered AIDS study

Crohn’s resistance helped lead to a deeper understanding of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, and treatments, simply by staying alive and working with doctors to help figure out why he was. “What he contributed to medical knowledge is really quite extraordinary,” said Dr. Bruce D. Walker, the director of the Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, M.I.T. and Harvard. Stephen Crohn was born on Sept. 5, 1946, in Manhattan and was educated at New York University, City College of New York and the Art Students League of New York. He was an artist and worked as a freelance editor for Fodor’s Travel. His paintings, mainly abstract works that evoked landscapes, were exhibited in New York, San Francisco and elsewhere.

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Beginning in 1978, Stephen Crohn cared for Jerry Green, as he lost 30 pounds, went blind and was ravaged by all kinds of infections. Mr. Green was one of the first people to die of the disease that became known as AIDS. In the ensuing years, scores of Mr. Crohn’s friends died of it. He had taken no special precautions, and he had been as sexually active as his friends. But he never got sick.

Join Sojourner House at the Biltmore Hotel for their annual masked gala celebration: featuring jazz-age inspired entertainment by Chifferobe, the Tropigals, live music by Nikki Luparelli and the Gold Diggers, decadent cuisine, vintage photo station, and a large silent auction. All proceeds support Sojourner House’s LGBT-inclusive violence prevention programs and Safe House for victims of domestic violence in Rhode Island. Visit SojournerRI. org for more information, or facebook: SojournerRI. Tickets available at SojournerHouse.EventBrite.com. q

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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. October 1

2 3 6 6

Borderlands, 7-9 p.m. A peer-led support group open to transgender, transsexual, gender-variant, and/or intersex people and to those who are exploring whether one or more of these identities is a good description of their experience. Meeting location withheld for participant privacy. See info@ tginetwork.org for more information. PFLAG of Greater Providence meeting, 6:45-8:45 p.m. The Met School (Justice Building), 325 Public St., Providence. 751-7571. Crazy Hat Gay Bingo to benefit Youth Pride Inc., 7 p.m. Riviera Bingo Palace, 1612 Elmwood Ave., Cranston. Doors open at 6 p.m. $20 to play. Sunday’s OUT at Christie’s, 12 noon. 14 Perry Mill Wharf, Newport. Fabulous lunch, inspired cocktails, fun atmosphere. Sponsored by NewportOut.com.Every Sunday.

RI Pride Honors Gala. Greenhouse, Hope Artiste Village, 1005 Main St., Pawtucket For more details see www.prideri. com.

7-11 URI Coming Out Week, Kingston, RI. For more information on specific events, contact annierussell@mail.uri.edu. 8

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

Sojourner House 11 The Masquerade Ball, 7-11 p.m. The Biltmore Hotel, 11 Dorrance St., Providence. Jazz-age inspired entertainment by Chifferobe, the Tropigals, live music by Nikki Luparelli and the Gold Diggers, decadent cuisine, vintage photo station, and a large silent auction. See www.SojournerRI.org for more information. Tickets are available at www. SojournerHouse.EventBrite. com. 13

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RI Prime Timers, 4:30-7 p.m. Social and networking for gay and bisexual men 40+. Social, dinner and meeting. See www.riprimetimers.org or call Steve at 996-3010 for more information. Borderlands, 7-9 p.m. A peer-led support group open to transgender, transsexual, gender-variant, and/or intersex people and to those who are exploring whether one or more of these identities is a good description of their experience. Meeting location withheld for participant privacy. See info@ tginetwork.org for more information. Queer Book Club, 7 p.m. Books on the Square, 471 Angell St., Providence. Book selection: Ask the Passengers by A. S. King. Discount if book is purchased at Books on the Square. For more information e-mail queerbookclub@gmail.com. Halloween Gay Bingo, 7 p.m. Riviera Bingo Palace, 1612 Elmwood Ave., Cranston. Doors open at 6 p.m. $20 to play.

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Bingo benefits ACOS and APRI. Come in costume.

Dana Goldberg: Crossing the Line Comedy Tour, 8 p.m. The Dark Lady, 17 Snow St., Providence. Get tickets in advance! Last time she was here the show was sold out. See www. showclix.com/event/Event37779766409 for tickets. The Imperial Court of RI presents Save The Boobs Tour, 8 p.m. Le Place, 20 Kenyon St., New Bedford, MA. Hosted by Empress XV Gingah Rale. Open show, raffles, snacks. $5 to benefit The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

COLAGE, 10:30 a.m.-12 noon.The Gordon School, East Providence. A kid-centered place for youth ages 8 and up with one or more LGBTQ parent(s). To RSVP or to receive more information, e-mail Veronica at vjutras5@gmail.com.

A Beautiful Opportunity to Save in 2013.

Insulating Duette® Architella® honeycomb shades from Hunter Douglas are an attractive way to help lower your energy costs. And thanks to the reinstatement of the federal tax credit for select energy-efﬁcient products, your purchase of qualifying shades may entitle you to a tax credit of up to $500.* Hurry, this opportunity ends December 31, 2013!

The Imperial Court of RI presents Save The Boobs Tour, 8 p.m. Randolph Country Club, 44 Mazzeo Dr., Randolph, MA. Hosted by Empress XV Gingah Rale. Open show, raffles, snacks. $5 to benefit The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. The Imperial Court of RI presents Save The Boobs Tour, 8 p.m. The Dark Lady, 19 Snow St., Providence. Hosted by Empress XV Gingah Rale. Open show, raffles, snacks. $5 to benefit The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. ACOS ArtBeat, 6:30-9:30 p.m. The Providence Biltmore Hotel Grand Ballroom, 11 Dorrance St., Providence. Tickets are $45. See www.aidscareoc.org for more information.

American Wallpaper & Design Center 44 Troy St Fall River MA M-F: 9:00-6:00 Sat. 9:00-5:00 www.amwall.com 508-672-3751 americanwallpaper.hdspd.com

* For tax credit details and restrictions and a list of qualifying products, see the Manufacturer’s Certiﬁcation Statement and FAQs at hunterdouglas.com/taxcredit. Hunter Douglas and its dealers are not tax advisors. Consult a tax professional regarding your individual tax situation and ability to claim a tax credit related to the purchase of the qualifying Duette Architella honeycomb shades. © 2013 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas. 37472

Luna’s and GirlSpot present the Annual Witches Ball, 9 p.m. Loft 71, 71 Richmond St., Providence. The Candace Brooks Band, and cash prizes for ‘Best in Show,’ ‘Funniest,’ ‘Sexiest,’ and ‘Best Couple.’ $10. 21+ event.

27 Providence Gay Men’s Chorus presents Broken Hearts Club; a cabaret. 5-7 p.m. Tickets $25; www.pgmccabaret. eventbrite.com. Light fare available. Point St. Dueling Pianos, 3 Davol Sq., Providence. 27

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The Imperial Court of RI’s Vampire’s Ball, 8-10 p.m. The Eagle, 24 Snow St., Providence. $5 suggested donation to benefit AIDS Care Ocean State. Come as a vampire and be entered to win “Best Vampire” contest. Hosted by Vi’let, Jealousy Jonez and Jacqueline DiMera.

A Roast to Honor Rhoda Perry at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet. A fundraiser to benefit The Fund for Community Progress. For tickets and information see www.fundcp.org or call 941-7100. Rocky Horror Picture Show, 10 p.m. The Zeiterion Theatre, 684 Purchase St., New Bedford, MA. Original movie with the RKO Army live cast. General seating tickets are $15, and may be purchased www.zeiterion.org.

November

1-2 Spiritual Retreat: The Beloved. Canonicus, Exeter RI. Sponsored by The Church of the Holy Paraclete. Arrival is 4 p.m. on 11/1; departure is 8 p.m. on 11/2. $100. For more information see www.holyparaclete.org. 1

Youth Pride Annual Event, Inc. 5:30 p.m.The Providence Biltmore Hotel, 11 Dorrance St., Providence.Cocktails, silent auction, dinner, awards, and dancing. Tickets are $60, and may be purchased via www.youthprideri.org. Sunday’s OUT at Christie’s, 12 noon. 14 Perry Mill Wharf, Newport. Fabulous lunch, inspired cocktails, fun atmosphere. Sponsored by NewportOut.com.Every Sunday.

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Borderlands, 7-9 p.m. A peer-led support group open to transgender, transsexual, gender-variant, and/ or intersex people and to those who are exploring whether one or more of these identities is a good description of their experience. Meeting location withheld for participant privacy. See info@tginetwork.org for more information. PFLAG of Greater Providence meeting, 6:45-8:45 p.m. The Met School (Justice Building), 325 Public St., Providence. 751-7571. ICRI The Queen Mother’s Ball, 7-8 p.m. Cocktails; show to follow. The Biltmore Hotel Garden Room, 11 Dorrance St., Providence. $20 to benefit the Trudeau Center and RI Pride. Hosted by Vi’let and Jacqueline DiMera.

RI Prime Timers, 4:30-7 p.m. Social and networking for gay and bisexual men 40+. Social, dinner and meeting. See www.riprimetimers.org or call Steve at 996-3010 for more information. TransFamily New England, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free, confidential meeting for parents and other family members of someone identifying as transgender, gender variant, and/or intersex. Meetings held in Providence. E-mail jewcy15@gmail.com to be added to the contact list.

vjutras5@gmail.com.

Thanksgiving Gay Bingo, 7 p.m. Riviera Bingo Palace, 1612 Elmwood Ave., Cranston. Doors open at 6 p.m. $20 to play. Bingo benefits ACOS and APRI. Get ready for the annual pie eating contest!

The Theater Offensive takes you to Beyond the Stage – The premier benefit for True Colors: OUT Youth Theater, 6-8 p.m. Hill Holliday, 53 State St., Boston. Supporting at-risk LGBT Youth & Allies. Enjoy complimentary sips and treats. Tickets are $50 and may be purchased via www.bts2013. brownpapertickets.com. Transgender Day of Remembrance, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Temple Beth-El, 70 Orchard St., Providence. For more information e-mail info@tginetwork. org. q

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Weddings Bob and Bruce are happy to announce they were married on August 4

Though they would have liked to have everyone they know present, it was simply the right time…. The happy couple knows that the fight for real and meaningful equality is not over. In the meantime, gay kids need our support. Please consider giving support to youthprideri.org. in their honor. They’ll party with us all along the next 33 years! Love B&B

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Larry Bacon & David Burnett

On Saturday, September 21, at 11 a.m., the Rev. Jay Deacon formalized the 36-year union of Larry Bacon and David Burnett with a marriage ceremony at Channing Memorial Unitarian Universalist Church, marking Channing’s first same-gender marriage since Marriage Equality became law in Rhode Island on August 1, 2013. Included in the couple’s large wedding party will be two 80-year-old flower girls and an infant ring bearer.

Stephen Hartley and Brian Deslauriers were married September 16 at Beneficent Church. Photography by Sam Henry.

Bacon and Burnett, along with many members of the congregation, worked tirelessly for the passage of Marriage Equality Rhode Island.

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Drop-In Center Opens for Male Sex Workers in Providence Brian Gay

There have been certain times in my life when I’ve met someone so passionate that I find myself truly humbled just to be in their presence. Sitting down to speak with Rich Holcomb, director of Project Weber, about his work to help male sex workers in Providence was one such experience. I visited Holcomb last month to view Project Weber’s new drop-in-center, a space he had been dreaming of for years.

“They [male sex workers] are not forthcoming to researchers, just to the johns who pick them up – unless you’re one of them.

Project Weber was founded in 2008 in memory of Roy Weber, a young sex worker who was found shot dead near Johnson & Wales University on Christmas day in 2003. The case is still unsolved, something Holcomb attributes to prejudice against Weber’s association with drugs and sex work. Project Weber is currently the only program in the United States focused exclusively on addressing the needs of male sex workers, one of three programs worldwide that Holcomb is aware of, the other two being in Montreal and Prague. In Rhode Island, sex could be sold legally indoors until 2009. What makes his program successful is the ability of outreach workers to relate to the people on the streets. Because the outreach volunteers are former sex workers themselves, trust and rapport exists between them and those they serve. “They are not forthcoming to

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researchers, just to the johns who pick them up – unless you’re one of them. That’s where Project Weber comes in.”

age, we don’t really hear that much about HIV/AIDS in high school, so I didn’t really know that much.”

Information about risk of HIV infection is also instrumental in getting the men to listen. It’s evident that Holcomb cares about the men he serves. “In a perfect world, I’d like to see all these guys get clean and get out of the industry.” If they are not ready to stop, Project Weber tries to find a way to help them do what they do in a safer way.

Funding and Research

Holcomb is frustrated by the stigma that still surrounds the population he serves. “What angers me is that it’s taken this long for a program like this to be funded in the state of Rhode Island. We have guys who were sexually abused and introduced to crack at 13 – 14 years old. “These men are having sex with anywhere from 8-12 men per day,” Holcomb tells me. Most identify as heterosexual, and many have wives and children who they go home to when they are not working the streets.

Eric Lamy

Due to their high-risk sexual behavior and addiction (about half of the men are IV drug users), HIV is a major concern. In addition to conducting his own research, Holcomb also has the help of Eric Lamy, a research assistant at the Miriam Hospital Immunology Center. A recent graduate of Providence College, Lamy was recruiting participants for a study at Miriam when he first met Rich. Lamy said that, previous to this work, he wasn’t really aware of the issue of HIV/AIDS. HIV/AIDS was a “whole other world I didn’t even know about. You know how it is, many people our

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One essential aspect of Holcomb’s work is fundraising. “For funding there’s got to be data to show that there’s a need,” he said. Given the data currently available on male sex workers in RI – very little other than that which Project Weber has produced – getting funding tends to be a difficult process. All the agencies that work to bring the incidence of HIV infection down to zero have to compete for funds, and there is sometimes a tendency to do what’s cost effective and will get the most data. The tension can spread beyond the agencies, sometimes causing inter-community competition as well. Holcomb expressed his frustration at this competitive aspect, describing male sex workers as a marginalized population. He compares the current situation of male sex workers to that of gay men and IV drug users in the 1980’s. “No one cared when IV drug users were getting HIV because they weren’t a sympathetic population. But when babies began getting it through blood transfusions – boom.”

Invisible and The Johns

Project Weber hosts an event each year to raise awareness in the community about the experience of the male sex workers in Providence. Last year, the event was the world premiere of the documentary film Invisible, which

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was hosted at the IMAX cinema at the Providence Place Mall. The film had a positive impact, according to Holcomb. It allowed people to “finally be able to see the faces attached to the data” and thus understand that they’re “real people with real stories,” he said. Another important aspect of the film is that it has shed light on those who fuel the industry – the “johns.” “The tricks out in the back – the johns – were upset because the film shed a light on their playground. There was a loss of that anonymity and freedom. “Some johns sincerely believe that they are helping the sex workers,” said Holcomb. The relationship between the workers and the johns is complex and dysfunctional. “The johns don’t like it when male prostitutes get clean because when they get out of the work, they end up bitterly hating the men who enabled them.” The johns also don’t like Project Weber, because it interferes with the relationships they have with the workers. “For a lot of these men who are so lonely, male prostitutes are the only intimacy in their lives. They’ll do anything to keep that relationship going.”

The Space

Obtaining the space for the drop-in center involved a lot of persuading the state officials and people in the field of HIV prevention, as well as a great deal of research and presenting the project’s HIV intervention plan. The center, whose location is not publicly disclosed, offers specialized interventions, peer support groups, Hepatitis C and HIV testing, condoms

and lube, clean needles and a place for the men to come when they simply need a break from the streets. Holcomb explained that for outreach, they have to find the sex workers on the streets to try to convince them to partake of the services offered. “It’s like visiting a friend at work,” he said, in that they aren’t going to be able to give you their full attention. Whereas when they come to the drop-in center, it will be on their time off, when they are not working and therefore will be more receptive. When asked what Project Weber can offer these men that another drop-in center such as YPI or a shelter such as Crossroads cannot, Holcomb replied simply, “Understanding. Project Weber is a non-judgmental place and there’s nothing that these men have done that we haven’t done. And we respect the safety and security of the guys who come there.” The center is open to clients approximately forty hours, six days per

week. They have early morning and late night hours to accommodate the workers who are usually out at those times anyway. In terms of how it all gets done, Holcomb said that the work “relies so much on people volunteering.” The team is made up of himself, Lamy and others who are either former sex workers themselves or passionate about the work being done. “We are very, very selective on whom we have volunteer for us” he told me. There is a screening process, partly to keep johns from applying.

What’s Upcoming

would have gotten out sooner… maybe I would not have contracted HIV…who knows.” “This Christmas will mark ten years since Roy Weber’s murder,” he told me. “I don’t think there’s any coincidence that he was killed in 2003 and ten years later there is now a program in honor of him.” I asked if he was in touch with Weber’s family. He told me that he is and that they are supportive of the work that is being done. “It’s an honor that his family is supportive,” he said. “We take his name with us – he’s not forgotten.” q

Project Weber’s January 2014 event will feature a thirty minute mini-sequel to the original film Invisible, with details to be released soon on the agency’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ projectweber) and website (www. projectweber.org). As we were wrapping up our discussion, Holcomb became introspective. “If this had been here for me, maybe things would have been different… maybe I

Know your status.

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Voices

I gave him a little hug, and told him I was proud of him. Then I asked him a few questions:

Safe Enough to Come Out

“When did you know?” (three years ago.)

Kim Stowell

Recently, a young man came out to me. His parents are friends of mine, and I have known him since he was a little kid. I always suspected he was gay, but I never thought I’d be the first one he came out to among the adults in his life.

“Do you know any other gay kids?” (No.) “Does Katie know? [Katie had been his best friend since childhood.] (Yes.) He also asked me a couple: “Did you already know?”

So when he approached me a few months ago, I was not really prepared. He sidled up to me during a big cookout at his parents’ house and asked under his breath if we could talk; that he had something he wanted to tell me. We moved away from the crowd and out onto the side lawn where we could sit by ourselves.

“Promise you won’t tell anyone?” It was not a long conversation, but it was deep and real. It took courage on his part. I thanked him for trusting me – I felt more than a little honored to be the confidante of this wonderful kid. And I told him he could always come to me.

be his grandmother. And being 17 and all, he thinks he has the whole world figured out. But he keeps coming back. October 11 is National Coming Out day, and I have been thinking about how grateful I am that this young friend of mine felt safe enough to come out to me. I’m glad that I was out to him from the start. I’m sure this is a much more commonplace experience for others, but for me it was significant, and I thought it worth putting in a plug to be a safe and trustworthy person, especially to the young people in your life. You never know when someone might need to come out. q

He has found reasons to be in touch or come by a few times in the months since, and so we get a chance to chat every now and then. We talk about school and his friends, and a little bit about being gay, and I drop suggestions from time to time, although I honestly don’t know if he hears anything I say. After all, I’m practically old enough to

He hemmed and hawed. “It’s nothing bad,” he began, but then faltered. “I think you might already know,” he continued. Finally I told him he was just going to have to say it so I could be sure we were both thinking about the same thing. And he did. “I’m gay,” he said.

Congratulations on Marriage Equality RI!!

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Getting Older, Are You?

not limited to: shopping, driving, home maintenance, financial, legal, nutrition, emergency, and other services.

Elda Dawber and Marcia Blair

SAGE/RI has launched an important survey to discover where our aging population would like to live. Your opinions count! All the good news about marriage equality and increased access to health care notwithstanding, many of us continue to worry about being able to care for ourselves and/or our partners as we age. The days of joking about lesbian/ gay/bi/trans old age homes, or living together as a group so at least one of us will remember who we are on any given day, have evolved into very real concerns about our future. It’s time to get moving on this. There is great diversity in our personal visions of our individual futures, and in the possible solutions to achieve them. Perhaps most important is the fact that not everyone has the same needs. One size does NOT fit all and certainly cannot be afforded by all. Many of us will be living solely on Social Security in our later years and will be unable to afford much of anything more than public housing or a subsidized nursing home. That LGBT-old-age-home-dream is definitely one of the options. Some favor the idea of “aging in place” – literally remaining in our own homes as long as possible with the addition of LGBTsensitive community support systems. A number of other possibilities can be explored. They can be visualized on a continuum: • A stand-alone residential facility exclusively for LGBT elders (These are springing up across the country and

SAGE will soon have a resource list on its website if you would like more information about this concept.) • An integrated residential facility for LGBT seniors that includes gaysensitive allies • “Straight” residential facilities that are LGBT-sensitive, welcoming, and include programming that is inclusive. • “Straight” assisted-living facilities, nursing homes and rehab centers that are LGBT-sensitive, welcoming, include programming that is inclusive, meet the health, welfare, and social needs of LGBT seniors, and are also inclusive of their partners/family members/friends. • Home health care providers and senior centers that are LGBT-sensitive, welcoming, meet the health and welfare needs of LGBT seniors, and are inclusive of their partners/family members/friends • Community based support services (Visiting Nurses, Meals on Wheels, Friendly Visitors, etc.) that are LGBTsensitive, meet the health and welfare needs of LGBT seniors, and are inclusive of their partners/family members/friends.

SAGE/RI took an enormous step in the right direction last year by forming an LGBT Senior Housing Subcommittee and developing an LGBT Senior Housing Assessment Survey to find out what RI LGBT seniors think about these options, assess what currently exists, and determine the needs of our community. The survey form has been distributed at a number of events over the last few months and is also available by calling SAGE at 528-3259, or emailing sageriinfo@gmail. com and asking about the survey. If you haven’t had a chance to complete it, please do. Information from this survey is vital to ensure that the Housing Subcommittee considers everyone’s ideas and needs. This information is intended to be for ALL of us, and that can only happen if a wide cross-section of folks respond. Thank you. Stay tuned. And for you younger members of our LGBT world, please don’t think for a minute that we aren’t mindful of you as well. What we are attempting to achieve today can only result in a better tomorrow for all of us. One thing we can’t stop, no matter who we are or how hard we may try, is time. It does keep marching on. q

• HomeShare options for LGBT seniors who wish to open their home to another, non-related, LGBT individual for the purpose of sharing living space, costs, and resources. A comprehensive listing of LGBT sensitive community-based services that homebound elders might need, including, but

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AIDS Project Rhode Island Amy Stein

APRI Receives Funding for Men’s Health Website

AIDS Project Rhode Island (APRI) recently received $15,000 from the Rhode Island Department of Health to help improve and market its recently launched website, www. Men2MenRI. org. This website is intended to be a health and community forum for gay and bisexual men in Rhode Island to share information about coming out in Rhode Island, recommend doctors and other health care providers, and list community events. The website also has a feature for men to ask health questions of Dr. Philip Chan that are answered within 24 hours. The funding will be used for a variety of purposes. It will be used to plan and

implement a social marketing plan that will reach Rhode Island men of all ages and backgrounds. In order to increase submissions for recommended doctors, an incentive program will be developed to help motivate men to recommend doctors and other health care providers to other men in Rhode Island. And finally, an end-user assessment will be conducted and upgrades will be made to the site. APRI is looking for men to help participate in the planning efforts around these upgrades to the site. If interested, please contact Tom Bertrand at Thomas@AIDSProjectRI.org. In the meantime, please go on-line, check out the site, and share it with your friends. q

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Imperial Court Rhode Island By Austen Bourassa and Belle Pellegrino

José Sarria: The Man, the Legend

queen who worked at the famed Black Cat bar in San Francisco (and fought against police raids), and was deeply involved in the fight for equal rights, co-founding the League for Civil Education, the Tavern Guild and the Society for Individual Rights, and was the first openly gay person to run for office in San Francisco (1961). Although he did not win, he did run before Harvey Milk did.

proclaimed himself Norton I, Emperor of the United States, Protector of Mexico. He had a spirit larger than life. José was drawn to Norton, and when the opportunity arose for him to purchase a burial plot and headstone near Norton’s, José did. We asked past and present monarchs of the Imperial Court of RI to provide statements regarding José’s death. Everyone agreed on two things: sizing up “Mama” was extremely difficult and words often failed to describe the regality and marvel of José. “The one thing I’ll always remember about Mama is when she said ‘you need to look at the bigger picture and not worry about the small stuff.’” – B.B. Hayes, Empress I, Founder, ICRI “José had a great sense of humor. To me she brought laughter, bringing yesterday’s heritage to today. Our visits were very personal – living and sharing our family’s stories; morning breakfasts and afternoon tea with our monkey teapot.”

On August 19, 2013, José Sarria, an activist, leader, creative muse, free spirit, inspiration and legend, died at the age of 90. For those unfamiliar with José, he founded the entire Imperial Court System, the second largest gay organization in the world, in 1965. In addition, José was a military veteran, a drag

– Raffaele Domenico DeAngeliso Martino, Emperor I, Founder, ICRI Upon creating the first Imperial Court in San Francisco, José began to use the stage name Empress José I, the Widow Norton, in honor of Joshua Norton. Like José, Norton was an eccentric who championed for civil rights. He lived between 1819 and 1880 and

“I met Mama long before I was introduced to the court system, when she performed in a little bar in Woonsocket called Kings and Queens. It was in the 1980’s (I think). The next time was at Saleen’s step-down at the Roosevelt in New York City. When I mentioned that we were from Rhode Island

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she said she visited Woonsocket, while on vacation in, as she called it ‘Chocachoag.’ I said ‘Do you mean Chepachet?’ ‘Oh that’s right’ was her answer.” – Lee Daniels, Empress II, XVII and Emperor XII, Founder, ICRI

full except for a table for three that José was sitting at alone. Chrissy walked right up and said ‘Excuse me but would you mind if we sat with you?’ José got the biggest kick out of it and she and Chrissy talked on and on about the Imperial Court System. José was so sweet to us. She requested that Chrissy and I sit at her head table. It was quite the honor.”

“For our Dearest José - of course we all have many fond memories of José. For me, I will always remember his gracious ways, – Diana Prince, Empress XVI and XX his quick wit and his profound intelligence. Farewell José. And may God bless you.” “When I first met José, I was new to the – Taya Houston Himmelsbach, Imperial Court and only knew he was its Empress IX founder. He spent a long time speaking with me and I came away with the sense that I “José, thanks for creating the Imperial had been in the presence of greatness. Court System, an organization that truly is Later, I learned of his background, and a gift for the community we help, as well realized just how accurate I was. A true hero as the members who have made lifelong on so many levels. He is sorely missed but friendships, that may never have met without his legacy lives on.” it.” – Belle Pellegrino, Emperor XVI – Gingah Rale, Empress XV “José was like a loving, eccentric “One of my fondest memories of the Widow grandparent. Regardless of what Mama was Norton is that whenever and wherever she doing she could inspire those around her decided to talk, she was always surrounded and sometimes she could even touch those by people listening to her tales of the old days across the room. José’s memory should of when the court was in its infancy. She held ignite the same passion for life, lust for love the attention of the room without actually and acceptance for everyone within all of meaning to. Rest Peacefully, Mama.” us.” – Gabriel, Emperor XV – Big Daddy Austen Daniels, “It was reign XII step-down (I was a princess at the time) and we were having cocktails in L’apogee at the Biltmore Hotel. My friend Chrissy had never been to a coronation before, so I brought her. All the tables were

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Emperor XVIII

“José Julio Sarria - A gay icon, trailblazer, and politically savvy individual with a heart of gold and a swift sense of humor. That is

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how I will forever remember Mama José, the Widow Norton. Sleep soundly Mama and rest peacefully knowing your legacy will be carried on through the International Court System.” – Gia Devaroux, Empress XXI “I met José a few years back at Coronation here, in Rhode Island my first thought was ‘Wow he is that old and still does drag!’ I am so proud of the work he has done and grateful that I had a chance to meet the man who started the Imperial Court System. I remember gay bingo this year escorting José to and from the stage. And her 90th birthday party (which was a huge success)! I am glad I was able to be a part of that. – Scott Diamond McMahon, Emperor XXI Clearly, José’s work and spirit have influenced two decades worth of monarchs in Rhode Island. In conversations and posts throughout the Imperial Court System, the same sentiment is also present and strong. Now more than ever it is important that we, as a community, keep José’s work and spirit alive – although many individuals are not a part of the Imperial Court, we urge you to do something simple: be kind to one another. For beyond raising money for community charities and rallying for equal rights, that was one thing José always said. José’s famous quote, which is etched into his headstone, is “United we stand, divided they catch us all one by one.” q

AIDS Care Ocean State By Christopher Dalpe

Let the Bidding Begin!

AIDS Care Ocean State’s (ACOS) 17th Annual ArtBeat auction is here! Our online auction is open for bidding. Visit our website at www.aidscareos. org today to bid on your favorite items and preview the live auction items. We update the site daily, so check back often so you aren’t outbid. Proceeds go to ACOS to support our clients and expanding programs. ACOS is Rhode Island's largest HIV/AIDS service organization and your support is important to us! Auction items range from artwork, jewelry and gift certificates, to exotic getaways and more. So tell your friends, family, and

Happy

Halloween!

community. Let the bidding begin! We hope you'll join us at our live Auction Gala on Friday, October 25. We are pleased to have Lt. Governor Elizabeth Roberts, Speaker of the House Gordon Fox and Providence Mayor Angel Taveras as our Honorary Chairs. Plus, Kim Zandy from 92PRO FM and the always fabulous Miss Kitty Litter are returning as our celebrity auctioneers. As if that's not amazing enough, local artist Jonathan Luke O'Brien is joining us as our featured artist. For more event details, please visit us on the web at www.aidscareos.org, or please call Chris Dalpe at 521-3603. Happy bidding, everyone! q

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AIDS CARE OCEAN STATE presents the 17th Annual ArtBeat Auction Friday, October 25, 2013 The Providence Biltmore Hotel Grand Ballroom 11 Dorrance Street in downtown Providence

6:30 to 9:30 pm LIVE and silent auction! cocktails, live band, and light dinner fare

Tickets are $45 & can be purchased in advance at www.aidscareos.org

WITH CELEBRITY AUCTIONEERS KIM ZANDY from PRO-FM & KITTY LITTER

Check out our ONLINE AUCTION for exclusive online only items! The bidding starts 9/18 at AIDSCAREOS.ORG Hundreds of items to bid on including: art, jewelry, giftcards, vactions and more! options

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2013

Youth Pride, Inc. By Kerri Kanelos

November Awards Event to Honor Three

At their annual awards event, a fundraiser on November 1st, Youth Pride, Inc. (YPI) will honor several people for their contributions to the organization and Rhode Island’s LGBT community. One award, the Luis Pagan Award, honors a YPI participant who is a leader and

advocate for all participants. This year’s recipient is Michi Olivo, an 18-year-old queer woman from Providence who graduated from Classical High School last year. During her time in high school, Michi was heavily involved in Classical’s gay/straight alliance (GSA). She and her fellow students revived the GSA after a short hiatus. Michi first heard about YPI three years ago from a friend (our 2012 Luis Pagan Award winner Noel Puello). “I had no idea what YPI was, but I went along anyway,” said Michi. “I was very excited to see other people like me. LGBT people always fascinated me but I didn’t know why.” As her own identity evolved and she became more comfortable at YPI, her involvement increased exponentially. Michi currently serves as one of four youth members of the YPI Board of Directors. She has also been instrumental in planning and implementing YPI’s annual

Gay/Straight Alliance conference and is a graduate of OUTspoken—YPI’s leadership development program. She is a constant presence and leader at YPI’s drop-in center. For new youth, Michi describes YPI as “a space for youth where they can figure out who they are or just be who they are and not be judged for it. We’re a family that grows every day that’s here to support you and give you the resources that you need to succeed in life with the identity that you have.” When asked to share her favorite experience during her time at YPI, Michi said “When I held the YPI banner along with two great leaders and good friends of mine in the Pride march. It was such an amazing experience! This certain type of energy I never felt before was in my body and I got to release it to the cheerful crowd. Everyone was so excited to see us march. When I saw people from another non-profit that I used to be very involved with, they screamed my name and I was so excited that I saw people I know who were excited to see me in a place where I can be who I want to be. It was such a great moment to be Continued on Page 26

For more information, please contact Kerri Kanelos at 421-5626 or via email at kerri@youthprideri.org, or visit youthprideri.org options

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2013

SAGE/RI

Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders

By Sally Ann Hay

Surveying the Men

We are delighted to announce that SAGE/RI will soon launch an Older Gay Men’s Health Survey that will parallel the Healthcare for Lesbian Elders Survey which we completed last year. The effort will be spearheaded by Bob Desrosiers, an RN who is also a Doctor of Nursing Practice student at URI. Desrosiers is pleased to be able to combine his professional, academic and personal interests; and to be able to support the mission of SAGE/RI at the same time. He is also expecting to expand the Health Care Directory that grew out of the previous study. We are very grateful to Mev Miller for the terrific job she did on the Lesbian Elders Survey and have been waiting for the right person to come along to help us do the same with gay men – welcome aboard, Bob! Now, if only we can find the right person(s) to help us survey the health concerns of older bisexual and transgender people….

Say Hello

While we are welcoming people into the fold, we want to take this opportunity to appreciate several people who have joined the SAGE/RI Advisory Committee over the last many months. It’s actually been almost a year since Jodi Glass joined us and she got right to work as co-chair of our LGBT Elder Housing Subcommittee. More recent

recruits include Beth Monk and Rosie Pegueros, both of whom have brought a new and important perspective to the Advisory Committee. We’ve also been lucky to have Marcia Blair and Elda Dawber, two active members of the Housing subcommittee who are working with us to expand our programming to be more inclusive of the South County LGBT community. Feel left out? We’re always looking for good folks of all ages who are interested in helping SAGE/RI meet our full potential. Drop us a line if you’d like to get more involved!

Full Dance Card

As this issue of Options goes to press, we are gearing up for our first movie night of the Fall which will feature “Gen Silent”, the much acclaimed documentary about six LGBT elders who are confronted with the realities of needing medical and housing assistance from mainstream healthcare systems. We are looking forward to the discussion afterwards, and expect it will tap into a lot of issues our Housing subcommittee are starting to identify. (By the way, be sure to read the article by Elda Dawber and Marcia Blair in this issue of Options; they are offering a good summary of the issues.)

with the Women’s Soccer game that evening at 7:00 p.m. The game will be held at the Soccer Complex, the outdoor field next to the Ryan Center at the Kingston Campus. The following week, we will be at a different table – we are looking forward to taking part in the Senior Expo, hosted by the Senior Agenda Coalition on October 18th. This year’s Expo theme is “Creating SeniorFriendly Communities,” and it is being held at Crowne Plaza in Warwick. We’d be glad to see you there! 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, call at 5283259 or find us on Facebook as Sage/ Rhode Island. q

This Fall will see us ‘tabling’ at a few events. On October 11th, better known as Coming Out Day, we will be at URI’s Pride Night being held in conjunction

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Continued from Page 24

surrounded by two great leaders who I look up to, to make me a better leader and see people who were happy that I was showing my pride out in the world.” Being chosen as this year’s Luis Pagan honoree was “very shocking,” said Michi, “I felt emotionally paralyzed. It’s such a great honor. To hear the stories of the past winners, it made me very inspired to be even more involved in my community.” For the future, Michi wants to continue working towards positive change in the LGBT community. “I want to change this community, “she said, “or maybe even leave the country and spread my knowledge somewhere else. I meet a lot of LGBT teens online from all over the world and most don’t have a space like YPI.” Join us on November 1st to honor Michi and other award recipients. Enjoy cocktails, a silent auction, dinner and dancing. Sponsorships at many levels are available, and sponsors attend as YPI’s guests. For tickets, please visit youthprideri.org/event. q

TGI Network AJ Metthe, Borderlands Peer Facilitator

I look forward to the two Tuesday evenings a month I spend at Borderlands. Borderlands is a peerled support group open to transgender, gender variant, and intersex people and to those who are exploring whether one or more of these identities is a good description of their experience. But, for me, it is more than just a support group. It is a place to talk about the joys and sorrows of being transgender in a world that doesn’t always understand. It is a place to make new friends and to reconnect with old ones. Borderlands is a place to both give support and get support. It’s a place to practice listening without giving advice. It’s a place to reflect upon when and how to come out to friends, family or co-workers and to navigate the details of transition with the people that have come before me. For some, Borderlands is a place to share that one “big secret” for the very first time and to be greeted with

open minds and open hearts. For others, Borderlands is a place to relax, away from their everyday lives living stealth in a transphobic world. For me, Borderlands keeps me connected and helps me feel less alone. No matter where under the transgender umbrella you fall, whichever label fits best, you will be welcome at Borderlands. Since August 2012, Borderlands has received over 50 new inquiries from individuals seeking to be connected to our peer support. For more information about Borderlands, please email borderlands@tginetwork.org. Save the Date for 2013 Transgender Day of Remembrance: Thursday, November 21st at 6:30 p.m. at Temple Beth-El (70 Orchard Avenue in Providence). For more information, or to help with planning, contact Jaye Watts at jaye@ youthprideri.org. q

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• 401.274.6740 • 800.886.1775

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

Portsmouth, RI; 683-1941.

AA: Brothers in Sobriety, Community Church of Prov., Wayland & Lloyd Aves., Prov., 751-9328; Sat., 7:308:30 p.m.; Central Services, info on all groups, 4388860; RI LGBT Group, Anchor Recovery Center, 249 Main St., Pawtucket, Tues. 7 p.m.; Suburban Gay & Lesbian, Fatima Shrine, Rt. 126, Holliston, MA, Thurs. 8-9:30 p.m. Alcohol/Drug Helpline. RI Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence, 24-hr., (866) 252-3784. Gay Al-Anon: Tues. 7:30 p.m., Congregational Church, 71 Park Place, Pawtucket, 726-2800.

AIDS/Health Resources ACT-UP (AIDS Coalition To Unleash Power), a group of individuals united in anger, committed to ending AIDS pandemic through direct action. Call Scott 640-3108. info@actupri.org. Donations welcome! Afia Center for Health & Wholeness: socializing with other HIV+ individuals. Meals, food pantry, HIV support groups, recovery groups, recreational and social activities. Wed & Thurs, noon to 4 p.m., at Matthewson St. Church, 134 Matthewson St., Prov. Sponsored by AIDS Project RI; free to clients. Gordon Cooper, 331-1350 Ext. 3268 or coopergo@ familyserviceofri.org. AGAPE/Family Resources Community Action. Case management, support, personal care items for people living with HIV/AIDS in Northern Rhode Island. 245 Main St., Woonsocket, RI 02895. 2356092. lcohen@famresri.org. AIDS Action Hotline: (800) 235-2331, MA only. AIDS Care Ocean State (557 Broad St., Providence): case mgmt., emergency funds, mental health & nutrition support, FACTS Nursery, housing for PWAs, referrals, advocacy, ADa.m.S Clinic for adolescents, street outreach, ENCORE, education, HIV+ support groups. Sunrise Community Housing for people with HIV/AIDS. 18 Parkis Ave., Prov. 02907. 521-3603; www.aidscareos.org. AIDS Project RI Division of Family Service of RI: Case mgmt., buddies, COBRA & dental services, emergency fund, mental health counseling, nutrition support, assessment & referral, wellness prog., advocacy, strength training. Prevention Ed. 404 Wickenden St., Providence: 831-5522. AIDS Quilt RI: Displays local AIDS Memorial Quilt panels; panel-making programs, including Annaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Workshop, HIV/AIDS education for young people; PO Box 2591, Newport, RI 02840; 434-4880; www.aidsquiltri.org; admin@aidsquiltri.org; annasworkshop@aidsquiltri.org. Brown Univ. AIDS Program (BRUNAP): clinical trials, public policy, research; lectures/conferences, patient/ community education. Bradford Briggs, 863-6790. brunap@brown.edu; www.brown.edu/brunap. Chiropractic Services: Free for unemployed HIV+ patients, Ronald P. Marsh, DC., 11 King Charles Dr.,

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Comprehensive Community Action Programs (CCAP) Medical, mental health, dental, social services. 311 Doric Ave., Cranston. 467-9610. Also Coventry and Warwick. Sarah Bowman, LGBT Outreach. Crossroads RI Health Care Services: Free, confidential, anonymous HIV counseling & testing for homeless/ at risk: Mon & Wed, 1-3 p.m., call Gloria, 5212255, Ext. 325. FACTS (Family AIDS Center for Treatment & Support): See AIDS Care Ocean State. Gabriel Care, LLC: Nursing/social worker case mgmt. & financial compensation for assistance and supervision for those living with HIV. MA Health funded for MA residents. Michael (508) 678-1002. HIV antibody testing, Anonymous: R.I. Dept. of Health, Prov., Newport and other locations, Free or sliding scale, call 222-2320. Home and Hospice Care of RI: Medical care mgmt. for HIV/AIDS. 24-hr. nursing staff for treatment. 782-0725. Bereavement Groups: John Charette, 727-7079. HPV study for gay/bi men ages 18 -- 26. Receive free HPV vaccine and HIV testing. Must be HIV-negative. Call Gail at Miriam Hospital (793-4335) or Email gyates@lifespan.org. 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. 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): counsel-

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ing, 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) 6795222. 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 7674100 Ext. 3516.

Be There and Be Queer! The Alley Cat/Dark Lady: 17 Snow St. Prov. 273-0951 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. 274-0298 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. Deville’s: 345 South Water St., Prov. Lesbian, gay, straight, it’s all good. 383-8883, www.devillescafe. com. Ego, Providence’s newest Nightlife Performance/Event Space. Thurs. 9 p.m. -- 1 a.m., Sat. 9 p.m. -- 3 a.m. 73 Richmond St, Providence. 383-1208. Girlspot at Loft 71, 71 Richmond St., Providence. Saturday nights at 8:00. www.girlspotri.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 (21plus) 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

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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.

RI Socialist Action: adgagneri@gmail.com. 952-5385. 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; 8477637.

Religious Resources

GLBT National Help Center Hotline. Local resources nationwide provided by social services agency. 888843-4564. www.GLBTNationalHelpcenter.org.

All Saints’ Memorial Church, 674 Westminster St., Providence. 751-1747 www.allsaintsmemorial.org. asmcri@verizon.net

NewportOut.com: LGBT Web site for Newport, RI.

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

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

Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists, email: mail@WABaptists.org.

Youth Pride, Inc. HIV Peer Educators: discussion, games, thought-provoking and empowerment activities. Led by trained youth educators. Free. 4215626.

Barrington Congregational Church (UCC) “the white church”, 461 Old County Rd., Barrington. 2460111.www.bccucc.org

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: 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; 4907602. Lambda Legal Defense & Education Fund: 120 Wall St., Suite 1500, NY, NY 10005; (212) 809-8585, Fax: (212) 809-0055. Lawyers for Equality and Diversity (LEAD): Advocates for lgbt causes. lawyersforequality@gmail.com The Next Thing (TNT): political and support group for queer people of color located at Brown University. Contact the Brown Queer Alliance, 863-3062. Rhode Islanders United for Marriage: 274-1323. Office 3 Center St., Providence. www.RIUnitedforMarriage.org. RI Commission on Prejudice and Bias: hate crime awareness training program www.hatecrimeri.org. RI Human Rights Commission: Anti-discrimination law enforcement agency with jurisdiction in employment, housing, public accommodations and credit, 180 Westminster St., 3rd floor Prov. Phone: 222-2662. Fax: 222-2616, TDD: 222-2664. RI Patient Advocacy Coalition: legalization of marijuana use for medical purposes. www.RIpatients.org.

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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, 3319844. Berean Baptist Church, a safe and welcoming place for all God’s children. 474 Chapel St., Harrisville, RI. www.bereanri.org; bereanbaptist@verizon.net. 5685411. Worship 10 a.m. Sundays. Calvary Episcopal Church, Open and welcoming. 158 Broad St., Burrilville, RI. 568-3888. www.calvaryepiscopal.us.email, calvary125@aol.com. Calvary United Methodist Church of Middletown, 200 Turner Rd., Middletown, RI 02842. 847-6181. Ask Amy about LGBTQ Early Dementia support group. Central Congregational Church (UCC), where we believe God is still speaking. Services Sunday, 10:30 a.m. An Opening & Affirming Congregation. 296 Angell St., East Side of Providence. 331-1960. www. centralchurch.us. Channing Memorial Church, Unitarian Universalist, A Welcoming Congregation, 135 Pelham St., Newport. Call 846-0643 or visit www.channingchurch. org. Charter Oak Grove ADF, an open and welcoming congregation of neopagan druids in CT. www.charteroakadf.org. Email charteroakadf@gmail.com. Christ Church in Lonsdale (Episcopal), 1643 Lonsdale Ave., Lincoln. Services 8 and 10:30 a.m. www. christchurchlincoln.org. 725-1920. Church of the Epiphany, 1336 Pawtucket Ave., Rumford. 434-5012. A diverse Open & Affirming Episcopal congregation. www.epiphanyep.org Church of the Holy Paraclete, Independent Old Catholic; Mass every Sunday at 6 p.m. 155 Douglas Ave., Providence. http://holyparaclete.org; Fr. Jakob Lazarus 218-0706.

Edgewood Congregational Church (UCC) Open & Affirming, 1788 Broad St., Cranston. 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: UU. Welcoming congregation. Same-gender weddings. 262 Chestnut St. (508) 528-5348. www.fusf.org. Email fusf@verizon.net Foxboro Universalist Church, Unitarian Universalist Association. 6 Bird St., Foxboro, MA 02035. 508543-4002. Welcoming congregation, marriage ceremonies. www.uufoxborough.org Grace Episcopal Church in Providence, 175 Mathewson Street, Providence. 331-3225. Immanuel Lutheran Church: A Reconciling in Christ congregation, 647 N. Main St., Attleboro, MA 02703. Pastor Sandra Demmler Damico (508) 2222898, 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.

35 Lower College Rd., Kingston. 783-2153 www. staugustineURI.com.

taurant for lively discussions among like-minded people. For info: www.RIatheist.net

St. Francis City Ministry at the Church of St. Mary, 535 Broadway, Prov. Office of LGBT Outreach 3531422

Bisexual Resource Center: 29 Stanhope St., Boston, (617) 424-9595 or www.biresource.net.

St. James Church: Episcopal, 474 Fruit Hill Ave., No. Prov. 353-2079. St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, 50 Orchard St. East side of Prov., 751-2141 St. Martin’s Episcopal Church: County & River Sts., New Bedford, MA. (508) 994-8972, stmartins1887@aol.com. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 50 Park Place, Pawtucket. 728-4300. www.stpaulspawtucket.org St. Paul’s Church, a Welcoming Episcopal church. 2679 E. Main St., Portsmouth. 862-1466. www.stpaulsportsmouthri.org 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

Temple Beth-El: GLBT-welcoming. Rabbi Sarah E. Mack. 70 Orchard Ave., Prov., RI 02906. 331-6070

Newman Congregational Church, Open & Affirming. 100 Newman Ave., Rumford, RI. 4311-4742.

Temple Sinai: A Welcoming Reform Temple. Rabbi Peter Stein, 30 Hagen Ave., Cranston, RI. 942-8350. www.TempleSinairi.org. Unitarian Society of Fairhaven (MA): 102 Green St., Fairhaven, MA 02719; (508) 992-7081.

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

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of So. County: 27 North Rd., Peace Dale, RI; 783-4170 or Val 7897282. www.uusouthcountyri.org.

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.

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

St. Augustine’s Church and Episcopal Center at URI:

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Cape and Islands Gay & Straight Youth Alliance (CIGYA): (508) 778-7744. CORISMA: Gay and lesbian couples of RI and Southeast MA. Potluck get-togethers for couples only. For info or to be added to email list write: corismainfo@ comcast.net. www.corismagroup.org Defenders/Providence: Leather/Levi club, c/o PO Box 41153, Prov., RI 02940. Third Sun at 6 p.m.

Gay Lesbian Alliance of Newport County Etc. (GLANCE): Social and entertainment events. Email glance1234@hotmail.com.

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

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

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

Temple Agudas Achim: GLBT-friendly, Reconstructionist cong. Rabbi Elyse Wechterman. 901 No. Main St., Attleboro, MA. (508) 222-2243 or www.agudasma.org.

Murray Unitarian Universalist Church, 505 N. Main St., Attleboro, MA, 02702 Rev. Sandra D. FitzHenry. Marriage & commitment ceremonies for all. (508) 222-0505 www.murrayuuchurch.org

Pilgrim United Church of Christ. Open and affirming. 635 Purchase St., New Bedford. 508-997-5684.

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. Agerestricted.

Fall River’s Rainbow Girls: private, moderated welcoming group for women in the Fall River Area. groups. yahoo.com/group/ Fall_River_Rainbow_Grrls.

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

Pilgrim Lutheran Church, an inclusive congregation: 1817 Warwick Ave., Warwick. 739-2937

Boston Bisexual Women’s Network: Social activities including monthly brunches, coming out groups, and quarterly newsletter “Bi Woman.” Subscribe at www.biwomenboston.org.

Seekonk Congregational Church: 600 Fall River Ave., Seekonk, MA. 02771, (508) 336-9355, Rev. Joy Utter, www.scc-ucc.com.

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

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

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

Westminster Unitarian/Universalist Church, a UUA Welcoming Congregation. 119 Kenyon Avenue, East Greenwich, RI 02818. 884-5933. LGBT weddings welcome.

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 res-

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Gay Men’s Meditation Group, third Thursday each month, 6:30 -- 7:30 p.m. Tim, 225-8149. Fee applies. Imperial Court of RI at Prov: Male, female, drag king & queen performers raise funds for local charities. Meetings 1st Mon. of month, at RI Pride Office, 1005 Main St., Pawtucket. All welcome. PO Box 6583, Prov., RI 02904;www.icriprov.org. 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: 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., Be-

neficent Church, 300 Weybosset St, Prov.. New season rehearsals begin in January and August. Singers and nonsinging volunteers welcome. www.provgmc. org. Queer Book Club. Meets 3rd Wednesday 7 p.m. at Books on the Square, 471 Angell St., Providence. Email queerbookclub@gmail.com. Raging Grannies: Women of “a certain age” working toward a more peaceful, equitable society with song, humor & passion. Will sing for rallies & events. Email jlglass53@aol.com.

www.GayVolleyball.net, (617) 633-2180

Email info@gaysports.com. BASKETBALL: Boston Gay Basketball League: www. bgbl.com or (617) 937-5858 Ext. 2. BOWLING: RI GALA: 6 p.m. Sun., East Prov. Lanes, Newport Ave., Bruce, 397-3803, or Bill, 828-5587 www.galabowling.com. Monday Night Women’s Bowling League, Pat 451-2188. Royal Court Bowling League: 9 p.m. Wed., Woonsocket Hill Bowl; 767-2110.

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

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

Students & Youth

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.

Bristol Community College Gay/Straight Alliance (BCC/GSA); Steven Camara, Advisor (508) 6782811 Ext. 2391, BCC-H202, 777 Elsbree St., Fall River, MA 02720.

BOWLING: BOSTON: Monday Night League, www. mnbl.net

Brown University Queer Alliance: umbrella org. for groups. 863-3062. Email: queer@brown.edu

FLAG FOOTBALL: FLAG (For Lesbians and Gays) Football www.flagflagfootball.com, (617) 937-5858 Ext. 4.

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

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

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.

Brown University Staff LGBTQ Association: call LGBT Resource Center: 863-3062

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

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

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

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 Women’s Association: Lesbian social group; age 21+; dances/events. www.RIWA.net SAGE/RI (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders) Advocacy, education and social events for LGBTQ seniors. Mail address 235 Promenade St., Suite 500, Box 18, Providence RI 02908. sageriinfo@gmail. com, 528-3259. Facebook: “Sage/Rhode Island.”

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

ICE HOCKEY for WOMEN: Gail Wickstrom email gwick@kersur.net. KICKBOXING or BOXING for WOMEN: 272-5425. www.rondeauskickboxing.com MARTIAL ARTS: Main Street Martial Arts. Non-profit, welcoming dojo and community center. Scholarships available. 1282 No. Main St., Providence. 274-7672. www.mainstma.org.

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.

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

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.

RUGBY: Boston Ironsides Rugby Football Club. www. bostonironsidesrfc.org.

T.W.I.S.T. Project: Program for gay and bisexual men in Fall River/New Bedford area. Drop-in center, referrals, condom distribution, social groups. Coffee night Thursdays 7 – 9 p.m. (508) 672-0378; www. myspace.com/twistprogram. UNISONG: For unity through song. Non-performance monthly singing session. www.unisong.net or jlglass53@aol.com WomenRIsing. Feminist Chorus. Director Nancy Rosenberg. www.womenrisingchorus.org. Email: contact@womenrisingchorus.org. Yankee Lambda Car Club: Regional club for GLBT people interested in vintage & specialty cars. www. yankeelcc.com, sisherwood@aol.com.

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

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ROWING: Boston Gy Rowers: www.glrf.org

RUNNING: Frontrunners Rhode Island: Brian 7517643, bripm@cox.net. Frontrunners Boston www. frontrunnersboston.org SNOWBOARDING: OutRyders, www.outryders.org or email brian@outryders.org. SOCCER: Boston Strikers Soccer Club www.bostonstrikers.com (617) 937-5858 Ext. 9. SOFTBALL: Renaissance City Softball League. New players and boosters always welcome. 226-7771642 or rcsl_commish@cox.net. Visit www.providencesoftball.org Beantown Softball League: (617) 297-7490 www.beantownsoftball.com. Serving since 1978. SQUASH: Boston Boasts www.bostonboasts.com SWIMMING: LANES (Liquid Assets New England) www.swim-lanes.org; (617) 937-5858. For fitness and/or competition. TENNIS: TENNIS-4-All: www.tennis4all.org. VOLLEYBALL: Cambridge Boston Volleyball Assoc.

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Brown University LGBTQ Resource Center: 863-3062, e-mail lgbtq@brown.edu Bryant Pride: Bryant College Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual Student Association. 232-6389. CCRI Triangle Alliance: Student & staff GLBTQ group meets on Flanagan and Liston campuses. 455-6065. www.ccri.cc.ri.edu/triangle. COLAGE. Support and social activities for children of LGBT Parents: Meets third Saturday of the month, 10:30 -- 12 at Gordon School, E. Providence. Coordinator Veronica Jutras (vjutras5@gmail.com) www. colage.org/colage-chapter/colage-rhode-islandchapter/ Fitchburg State College GLBT Alliance: Social support group for students. One-in-Ten and Friends, 978665-3164, sfranzemn@fsc.edu. Peer Listening Line/Fenway Community Health Ctr.: Boston. Youth-staffed hotline for GLBT youth; support, info and referrals. (617) 267-2535 or (800)399-PEER, 5-10 p.m. all week. Roger Williams University LGBTQ & Allies group: S.A.F.E (Sexual Advocacy for Everyone): Weekly meetings in Intercultural Center; speakers, social and awareness events; Pride Week in April. Email: saferwu03@gmail.com. Facebook: S.A.F.E. Salve Regina University Gay Straight Lesbian Bisexual Alliance (GSLBA), 100 Ochre Point Ave., Newport. Sister Johnelle, Lucianij@salve.edu SeaQuel: Southeast Asian Queers United for Empowerment and Leadership. Bi-weekly Sunday meetings. 383-7450. myspace.com/seaQuel; Email SeaQuel@ Prysm.us S.H.E.P.A.R.D. (Stopping Homophobia, Eliminating Prejudices and Restoring Dignity): Providence College, 1 Cunningham Sq., Prov., RI 02918, E-mail shepard@providence.edu. 865-1631 The Trevor Project: The only nationwide, around-theclock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for LGBT youth. Also offers social networks. 866-4-UTREVOR; 866-488-7386. thetrevorproject.org. The Next Thing (TNT): Political & support group for queer people of color at Brown Univ. Call Brown Queer Alliance, 863-3062.

University of RI Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer & Questioning (LGBTIQ2) alumni association gsimonelli@advance.uri.edu. 874-5808. URI Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer Center. A cultural department for students, faculty and staff. Florence Badejo, 874-2894. web.uri.edu/gender_sexuality

port, 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.

Youth Pride Inc./The Way Out: Support, education & advocacy for LGBTQQ young people ages 13-23. Drop-in center at 743 Westminster St., Prov. 02903; Mon.---Thurs. noon--8 p.m, Fridays 4 -- 8 p.m., Sat. 10 -- 5. The Way Out peer support group Tues., 5 p.m. Gender Spectrum support group Tues. 5:30 p.m. Ask about the 14-and-under day. Call 4215626 or email kerri@youthpride-ri.org Web: www. youthpride-ri.org.

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

Support Groups & Social Services

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.

Abuse Victims and Survivors: Support on phone for LGBTQ victims & survivors of partner abuse. Confidential peer-led groups. Hotline (617) 742-4911. Network/LaRed. Email office: advocate@tnir.org Adoption Options: Non-sectarian help for LGBT and straight adoptions. Betsy Alper, Jewish Family Service, 959 No. Main St., Providence. 331-54337. Foster parents needed: Stipend, assistance, training provided by Family Resources Community Action. 766-0900, ext. 1213. Foster parents needed, for newborn to age six. www.childrensfriendri.org. 276-4318 Foster parents sought: Training, stipend, support provided for nurturing families. Gregary Wright, Family Service of RI, 331-1350 Ext. 3305 Behavioral health outpatient services in Fall River area, inclusive of LGBT: S.T.E.P. (508-)235-1012; T.W.I.S.T. (508) 672-0378 Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center, offering resources for victims of domestic violence. 723-3057. Catholic Parents Outreach: Always Our Children, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, Sacred Heart Convent, 395 Chestnut St., Springfield, MA. Call Ann, (413) 7366803. COLAGE (Children of Gays): A national movement of people with one or more LGBT parents. Social activities, education & advocacy. Meets 3rd Saturday of the month. rhodeisland@colage.org. Coordinator Veronica Jutras (vjutras5@gmail.com) Compass: FTM trans info, support and social group, meets in Boston First Thursday, 7 – 9 p.m. www. compassftm.org, compassftm@comcast.net Crossroads RI: Hotline (Travelers Aid): (800) 367-2700 Day One (Formerly Sexual Assault and Trauma Resource Center of RI): Counseling & legal aid for victims of sexual assault/abuse & 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. 8476181. 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. 782-3990. Female-to-Male Support Group: Transgender peer sup-

options

GayLab for Healthy Relationships: Learning & practicing healthy ways to socialize in safe, non-judgmental environment in LGBT community. www.gaylab. org. Email info@gaylab.org. James, 781-762-6629 Gay Men’s Domestic Violence Project: support, info, shelter. (800) 832-1901, www.gmdvp.org.

Gay Share. Coming Out? Gay men’s support group Wed., 7:30 p.m. No fee. Call Tom/Mike, 369-9448 or www.gayshare.org; Info@gayshare.org. Helpline for LGBT Youth: Trevor Helpline, call 24/7 for crisis and suicide prevention. Also social networks. 866-4-U-Trevor HIV+ Gay Men’s Support Group at AIDS Care Ocean State, 18 Parkis Ave., Prov., RI. 521-3603. Refreshments served. New members should call Scott: 6403108 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

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

Classified Advertising

Nat. Lesbian & Gay Journalists Assoc./New England: Works for fair and accurate media coverage of LGBT issues, info@nlgja.org. PFLAG: Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians & Gays: Greater Providence chapter serves all of RI and Southeastern 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 4679940; 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), 2724044; www.samaritansri.org.

october

2013

Got an apartment to rent? Condo to sell? Looking for a housemate? Send us 30 words and a check for $30, and we’ll publish it in the very next issue. Send ad to advertising@optionsri.org, and payment to P.O. Box 6406, Providence, RI 02940 • housing ads only •

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october

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