options July 2014
LGBTQ News, Resources & Events
PrideFest Photo Recap pg. 20
Rhode Island’s LGBTQ community magazine since 1982 — FREE
options
In This Issue:
LGBTQ News, Resources & Events
Rhode Island’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer community news source since 1982 July 2014 Vol. XXXIII, Issue 3
Publisher Kyle McKendall kyle@optionsri.org Editor in Chief Jen Stevens editor@optionsri.org Calendar Editor Lise Schwartz info@optionsri.org
Out on the Town: PrideFest Photo Recap pg. 20
Resources Editor Nathaniel Zane nate@optionsri.org Copy Editors Bret Jacob, Joseph Morra, Myra Shays
Pride Pioneer Belle Pellegrino pg. 8
Roller Derby Season Worth a Look: Heats Up The Normal Heart pg. 14
4 Letters from the Editor & Publisher 5 Calendar 6 News Briefs 8 Interview with Belle Pellegrino 14 Providence Roller Derby 16 Pansexuality vs. Bisexuality 17 Lesbians on the Loose
pg. 39
18 Rhode Island Pride 20 Out on the Town 28 AIDS Care Ocean State 29 SAGE/RI 30 AIDS Project RI 31 Youth Pride Inc. 32 Resources 39 Worth a Look
Home delivery is free! Sign up online or send your name and mailing address to info@optionsri.org. Connect with us online! Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Issuu
Graphic Design Theresa Barzyk Writers Kurt Bagley, Annie Cronin-Silva, Christopher Dalpe, Brian Gay, Sally Ann Hay, Kimberly Jackson, Kerri Kanelos, The Lit Chick, Kelly Scafariello, Melanie Silva, Samuel Simas, Jen Stevens Photographers Jennifer Bonin, Richard Boober, Jack Hartwein-Sanchez, Elizabeth LaRoque Advertising Director Traci Allen advertising@optionsri.org Finance Director Donny McKendall billing@optionsri.org Subscriptions Francis Ryan frank@optionsri.org General Information info@optionsri.org
PO Box 6406 Providence, RI 02940 (401) 724-LGBT
www.optionsri.org Š OPTIONS 2014. Options is published monthly. The opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the governing board, volunteers or staff. Listings are provided as a resource and do not imply endorsement. Submissions to Options must include a phone number or email address. Names may be withheld on request. Submissions, ads, calendar or resource listings for the August issue must be delivered by July 21.
Options | July 2014
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From the Editor
From the Publisher
Dear Reader, It’s hard to summarize what our community just accomplished in PrideFest 2014, though this issue will attempt just that. One thing’s for sure: it was Rhode Island’s biggest, gayest celebration of the year – and likely ever. Idyllic weather, mainstream radio promotion, and growing acceptance of LGBTQs inspired added attendance, leading to an impromptu overflow celebration of mostly young people in Memorial Park, and giving an added financial jolt to Providence hotels, gay bars, restaurants and other local businesses. PrideFest participants bear witness to many emotional experiences: the stimulating energy of live music, laughter and smiles shared with friends, the curiosity of heterosexuals, the jealousy of ex-lovers crossing paths with their current lovers, the thrill of performing live, the stress of affording it all, the attraction toward scantily clad festival-goers, the exhaustion of volunteers, the sheer awe of being among 25,000 revelers, and the most celebrated emotion at PrideFest: the pride of fearless expression. This issue’s super-sized Out on the Town photo spread encapsulates a Pride well-celebrated. Traditionally Options takes a July break, sacrificing the opportunity to cover PrideFest in exchange for much-desired recuperation. While almost no one deserves a breather more than photographer Jack Hartwein-Sanchez, we would be remiss to let the fantastic images he captures throughout the Pride season go unseen. (Visit his website jdhsphotos.com for thousands of shots available for purchase.) Jack volunteers his time, with near perfect attendance at community events. With a camera in every cell phone, it’s easy to take photography for granted, but when it comes to print, I can’t imagine Options without Jack’s professional photos. Speaking of volunteers… We’re welcoming long-time Options contributor Brian Gay as our News Briefs writer, and Bret Jacob has proven incredibly helpful as Options’ new intern. I’m also happy to be working alongside Theresa Barzyk, our talented new graphic designer. We’re seeking a volunteer Calendar editor, so if you’re hip to community happenings, consider contributing and email editor@optionsri.org for more info. You’re sure to appreciate this month’s On the Shoulders of Giants interview. Belle Pellegrino’s story is particularly fascinating, offering an abridged history of the first RI Pride March in 1976 and culminating in a surprise twist that perfectly exemplifies this year’s PrideFest theme: Triumph & Transformation. Enjoy! In Solidarity, Jen Stevens
Dear Reader, What did Pride Month do for you? What did you do for it? For Options, it was a successful month. Our subscriber list grew by the hundreds while our June issue landed into more thousands of hands than ever. Online engagements have risen and new advertisers are reaching out to appear in our pages. Our booth at PrideFest attracted hundreds of people interested in our work. It’s incredible to me how many LGBTQs have yet to discover this 33-year-old publication. Flooding the streets of Providence with Pride celebrants is quite an accomplishment for our community. Along with the assemblage of Pride attendees, the vibrant local non-profit community was in full force alongside numerous corporate sponsors. Now that the glittering confetti has been swept from the streets, the rainbow lights of the State House dome turned off, and the rainbow flags that once lined the streets of our prideful city have been put into storage for the following 11 months, I ask: now what? Pride can’t be a month-long celebration that goes into hibernation until next June, as it seems to have already mostly done. Is our work as a queer community done? Of course not. While we’ve made major advancements on the political and legal fronts, every day countless LGBTQ people face oppression and internal struggles. I’m looking to reignite the fire. To both evaluate, plan, and lead the next march for our community, as Options sets our sites on involvement with the fledgling RI LGBT Community Center. Are you eager to shape our community’s definition of pride before the next PrideFest? There is always a seat around the Options table for you. The improvements we made to this magazine for the June issue have pushed Options into a new phase. The improved paper quality of the June issue has remained, giving Options the professional look and feel we need to grow. Our regular page count has increased from 32 to 40, giving us additional space to publish queer content and images. These changes should not imply that we’re complacent and that our work of improving Options is done. These changes represent the risks we are taking to move our publication forward and the hope that we have for Options as an organization. It is because of your feedback and comments that we make these decisions in good faith. I am a queer with limitless hope, and I believe that our community’s work is not finished. Let’s march forth, together.
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Onward, Kyle McKendall
Options | July 2014
Calendar of Events Comedian Vickie Shaw July 20
Providence LGBTQ Film Festival August 5-10
July
August
Sat. 5 – Sat. 12 Camp Lightbulb, summer camp for
Sun. 3 Options Release Party, 3-6pm, The Stable, 125
LGBT youth, ages 14-18, in Provincetown, MA. Full and partial scholarships available. For more info and registration visit www.camplightbulb.org.
Thu. 10 Sweet Little Variety Show, Eighty Eight Lounge,
Washington St., Providence.
Tue. 5 – Sun. 10 Providence LGBTQ Film Festival:
Celebrating Diversity, Identity and Discovery. Most films will be shown at Bell Street Chapel Theatre, 5 Bell St., Providence. For more info, see www.film-festival.org/Prov. GLBT.Fest.php, or email info@film-festival.org, or call 8614445
8pm, 55 Union Street, Providence. $6. 21+. Featuring, drag, comedy, music and host Nicool.
Sat. 12 RI Pride Volunteer Appreciation Party, 2pm, 432
Massasoit Avenue, East Providence. Email info@prideri.com to learn more.
Sun. 13 Options Release Party, 3-6pm, The Stable, 125 Washington St., Providence.
Sun. 10 RI Prime Timers, 4:30-7pm, network for gay and
bisexual men 50+. Social, dinner, and meeting. For more info see www.riprimetimers.org or call Steve at 996-3010.
Fri. 22 Erin Foley: Lady with Pockets Comedy Tour,
8:30pm (doors open at 7:30pm). The Dark Lady, 17 Snow St., Providence.
Sun. 13 RI Prime Timers, 4:30-7pm, network for gay and
bisexual men 50+. Social, dinner, and meeting. For more info see www.riprimetimers.org or call Steve at 996-3010.
Wed. 16 Queer Book Club, 7pm, Books on the Square,
471 Angell Street, Providence. The Picture of Dorian Gray, ed. by Nicholas Frankel. Discount if book is purchased at Books on the Square. For book selection and more info, email queerbookclub@gmail.com.
Sat. 19 Providence Roller Derby, 6pm, Thayer Areana, 975 Sandy Lane, Warwick. $10. For tix and info: www.providencerollerderby.com.
Sun. 20 Comedian Vickie Shaw, 6pm, Indigo Lounge, 599 Tiogue Avenue, Coventry. Tickets are $20 and available at Indigo. For more info, call 615-9600.
Wed. 23 RI Pride Open House, 7pm, Pride Center, 1005 Main Street #1105, Pawtucket. General social gathering and discussion of community events and opportunities for involvement. All are welcome. For more info, visit www. prideri.com.
Thu. 24 Sex Trivia with The Center for Sexual Pleasure &
Health, 8-10pm, The Salon, 57 Eddy Street, Providence. $10 for teams up to four. For more info, visit www.thecsph.org.
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Sat. 23 Rhode Island Pride Honors, 7-10pm. Location
TBA. Pyramid of Pride, Spirit of Pride, Volunteer and Parade Awards given. For more info visit www.prideri.com.
Regularly Scheduled Support Groups:
ACOS (youth) – Tues. 4pm, (gay males) – Wed. 1:30pm COLAGE (children of LGBTs) – 3rd Sat. 10:30am PFLAG (parents, friends, allies) – 1st Wed. 6:45pm TGI Network (trans) –1st & 3rd Tues. & Sat. 7pm TransFamily New England - 2nd Mon. 6:30pm Youth Pride Inc./Way Out – Tues. 5pm See Resources on page 32 for more info.
TOWN HALL LANES 1463 Atwood Avenue, Johnston 831-6940
www.bgalbowling.com www.townhalllanes.com Home of Big Gay Al’s Bowling League! 5
News Briefs Brian Gay
Restroom Policy Brings Attention to Rights of Transgender Students in RI RICHMOND, RI - The policy at Chariho High School permitting transgender students to use the restroom of the gender with which they identify made the news this month. NBC 10 reports that “Superintendent Barry Ricci said the [policy decision] came down to two things: respect and obeying the law.” Discrimination based on gender identity is illegal in Rhode Island. A representative for the State Department of Education advised, “a transgender student is entitled to use the restroom of the gender with which he or she identifies.”
ExxonMobil in Hot Water over Non-discrimination Policy ExxonMobil is in hot water with the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) following the oil company’s claim of valuing LGBT employees. HRC notes that ExxonMobil’s shareholders have voted 17 times to kill enumerated non-discrimination protections for ExxonMobil’s LGBT personnel—most recently in May. HRC also notes that when Exxon merged with Mobil in 1999, the newly formed company rescinded domestic partner benefits that had previously been offered to Mobil’s gay and lesbian employees.
Luxembourg Becomes 19th Nation to Enact Marriage Equality Last month, Luxembourg’s national parliament, the Chamber of Deputies, approved a marriage equality bill by a vote of 56 to 4. The legislation grants full adoption rights as well. Currently Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, England, France, Iceland, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Uruguay, and Wales have marriage equality laws in effect. Scotland has a law, which is set to extend full marriage rights by the end of 2014.
House, Senate and Non-profits Work for Expansion of Social Security Benefits WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and Representative Ron Kind (D-WI), sponsors of the Social Security and Marriage Equality Act (SAME) joined congressional colleagues and advocates from across the nation last month to announce planned legislative action to ensure that all same-sex spouses receive equal treatment under the Social Security Act regardless of where they live. The SAME Act of 2014 would amend the Social Security Act to confer spousal benefits to any individual legally married in the United States, eliminating the requirement that spouses reside in a state that recognizes same-sex marriage, and ensuring that spouses legally married outside the United States are eligible for benefits.
United States v. Windsor: Federal Government Begins Implementation of 2013 Ruling WASHINGTON – The Justice Department released a report detailing the Obama administration’s broad implementation of the Supreme Court’s United States v. Windsor decision, which struck down key components of the Defense of Marriage Act on June 26, 2013. According to an HRC press release, this report announces that: - The administration is unable to extend some Social Security and veterans’ benefits to married same-sex couples living in states
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Options | July 2014
News Briefs that do not recognize their marriages; - The Social Security administration will begin extending survivor benefits, lump sum death benefits and aged spouse benefits to same-sex couples if one partner is eligible to inherit from the other partner under state law. This would include couples with civil unions or domestic partnerships from states like Colorado, Nevada and Wisconsin; and - The VA Acting Secretary will allow for same-sex couples to be buried together in a national cemetery. Separate from the report, other announcements include: - The Department of Labor issued a notice of proposed rulemaking which will permit same-sex couples to access leave under the Family Medical Leave Act regardless of state of residence; and - The Office of Personnel Management announced its intent to extend family leave to every federal employee with a same-sex spouse.
A Year of State Marriage Bans Overruled by Federal Courts WASHINGTON – Thursday, June 26, marked the one-year anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark rulings in two historic marriage cases – United States v. Windsor and Hollingsworth v. Perry. Since then, not a single state ban on marriage equality has survived a federal court challenge. Prior to the Windsor and Perry rulings, same-sex couples could legally marry in ten states and the District of Columbia. Only 16 percent of Americans lived in states with marriage equality. Today, same-sex couples can marry in 19 states and Washington, DC, constituting 44 percent of the population.Thirty-one states still prohibit marriage for gay and lesbian couples.
Creative Candidate for Creative Capital: Brett Smiley Receives Attention for Innovative Campaign Commercial PROVIDENCE - Gay candidate for Mayor of Providence Brett Smiley received national attention for his witty ad depicting himself from a young age as “a man with a plan” and includes a marriage proposal via PowerPoint scene with husband Jim DeRentis. Providence Journal columnist Bob Kerr wrote, “In a year of dreary, sometimes stupid political ads, Smiley has broken through with a piece of work that plays like a splash of cool water on our overwrought selves.” Smiley is one of ten candidates seeking the mayoral seat, and served formerly as the Water Supply Board Chairman for the city.
Community Center Board Set to Kick Off Capital Campaign
graphic: www.freedomtommarry.org
Options | July 2014
PROVIDENCE – The founding board of the planned center for Rhode Island’s gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans and queer community has announced receipt of 501(c)(3) status for the fledgling organization.Their goal is to secure a physical space in Providence to house offices, meeting and event space, a resource library and a coffee shop in a visible, safe and convenient location. “We are excited to move forward with the next phase of this project,” said Board Chair Andy Morris. “We have laid the foundation in terms of policies, by-laws and projections. Now we are prepared to launch the fundraising phase, and we are confident that Rhode Island is behind the venture. The pledge of support has been loud and clear.”
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“On the Shoulders of Giants”
An Interview with Belle Pellegrino
Jen Stevens
Belle Pellegrino, far left Options: You’ve marched in over 30 RI Pride Parade’s, including the first one in 1976. How did you feel as you marched, and what was the crowd’s reaction? Belle: I participated in the first Pride Parades in Rhode Island, Worcester, and Albany. However, RI is my home and so very special to me.The first parade was scary to say the least. I know many of us, including myself, were fairly certain at least a couple of us might not live to finish the parade. I remember emerging from the tunnel that was located where the ice rink is now. It was dank and dark as we marched through it. Ahead we saw the bright sunlight and a large group of people assembled in front of City Hall. I recall wondering if anyone in that group had a gun. As we got closer, the first person I recognized was Police Chief McQueeney in a light yellow suit and wearing red socks. I am sure it wasn’t his intent, but it amused me and made stepping out into the light a little bit easier. In 2011, for the 35th Anniversary of RI Pride, I was asked to try to gather as many of the original group as I could. Most of us had not seen each other in over 20 years. It was a great feeling of reunion and celebration. As the Parade set out, I and another 76er, Trudy Rosenberger, stood at the front of the trolley. I was overwhelmed by the cheers from the crowd when
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they realized who we were. Even more, I was so touched by the numbers of people who reached out to touch or shake our hands, throw kisses, or simply say, “Thank you.” While many of us can no longer walk the full parade, it is vitally important to us to walk with our arms or hands linked for the last section of the parade. We walk that portion in memory of the first time, to honor those who are no longer with us, and to remind ourselves the fight isn’t over yet. O: Who were the leaders in the local gay rights movement in the 70s who inspired you most? B: I believe the first local person to inspire me was Rev. Arthur Cazeault. I met him in 1973 when I joined the Metropolitan Community Church [MCC], which he started. Art was one of the first people to encourage me to be proud of who I am and to urge me to be involved in bettering our community. A few years later, I had the opportunity to meet the founder of MCC, Rev. Troy D. Perry. His courage and determination will always be an inspiration to me. Whenever I find myself in a quandary about nearly anything, some words of wisdom from Troy pop into my head and I am at peace.
Options | July 2014
O: Would you explain your involvement in the Toward a Gayer Bicentennial Committee, which sued, and won, for the right to hold the first Pride March in Rhode Island? B: In the early 70s, there wasn’t a visible “community” in Rhode Island. The primary group was the MCC and our local news came from a paper called Gay Community News out of Boston. Under the guidance and inspiration of Rev. Joseph H. Gilbert, we began to stir the kettle. Joe arrived in RI after pastoring a church in San Francisco and was taken aback at the lack of resources for our community. So he set out to change things, and things changed. Rather than an actual community, he found numerous diverse groups, each embodying their various interests.The 70s were a time of “rap groups,”— open discussions about a particular topic. MCC sought to unify by holding our own open to all. We began a hotline – a place anyone with questions or in crisis could find a friendly, helpful person to offer assistance. Eventually, it evolved into the Gay Hotline. Joe began a Speakers Bureau to help enlighten others about who we are and to clear away some of the misconceptions about us. We were invited to speak to so many different groups; we learned just how little there was at local colleges for our community. A number of MCC members began the Rhode Island College Gay Alliance. Joe was most upset by the lack of a Pride event of any kind in RI. Once MCC set out to find a way to hold a Pride
celebration, we felt we needed to be represented as part of the Bicentennial Year. We often said, “We are everywhere.” We wanted to show that we were also there at the beginning of this nation. We planned and prepared for three events to be held on June 26, 1976: a gathering to speak to and about our community and our efforts towards equality; a prayer service; and a parade commemorating the Stonewall Riots - the start of our movement in the US. We applied to the RI’76 Bicentennial Committee, which had opened the door to “all Rhode Islanders” to join the celebration. But in July 1975, our request for use of the Old RI State House for a “Congress of People with Gay Concerns,” and to have it listed as part of the official Bicentennial Year events, was denied. For over eight months, letters went back and forth; more forms were filed and refiled until March 17, 1976 when the Bicentennial Foundation received a summons to appear in U.S. District Court. The suit was filed by the ACLU on behalf of 13 individuals. Not all who signed were comfortable being so out as to sit in the court. Volunteers were called for, and Ray Lariviere and I were chosen to represent our community. Despite positive rulings from Judge Raymond J. Pettine and all the hard work from our attorney, Steven J. Fortunato Jr., things continued to drag on from March right into June. It was on Friday, June 25, 1976 at about 5pm that a final decision was handed down, ordering that we be allowed to hold our Congress at the Old State House. The Parade required more battles. Forms were sent to Providence City Hall, Police Chief Col. Walter McQueeney, and Mayor Vincent “Buddy” Cianci. It was denied. Judge Pettine ruled that the city must give a permit for the parade, however, due to the lateness of the decision, we actually never received the official endorsement we sought for any of the events we held. I was proud to be one of the speakers at the Old State House that day and was thrilled to be one of the three who led that first parade as the “Spirit of ’76.” We had a flag, a toy rifle, and I banged out a marching beat on a toy drum. O: Gay Rhode Islanders achieved notable civil rights victories in 1995 and marriage equality in 2013. Has the community’s progression toward equality met your expectations? B: I can honestly say that in 1976 I could not have conceived of the progress we have made. If someone had said, “Maybe one day we will have the right to marry!” back then, I would have thought they had lost their mind. When you live in a time where simply walking to the corner store was a harrowing experience, the concept of achieving any semblance of equality within your lifetime is beyond possibility.
Rev. Joseph H. Gilbert
Options | July 2014
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Imperial Court of RI Members
O: A lot has changed in 40 years, including how individuals define themselves. Is there a word or phrase which best explains your sexual and gender identities? B: To be accurate, I would have to say I am and I identify as a no-op transexual living as a lesbian. O: Do you have a preference for female or male pronouns? B: I have no preference in pronouns. I usually say call me anything except late for lunch. O: Do you have a coming out story you’d like to share with our readers? B: Coming out as a lesbian was actually fairly easy once I started to listen to my inner self. It was finally coming out to myself as transsexual that was extremely difficult. About 11 years ago, I attended a drag show at Rhode Island College. I was backstage chatting with a young man who was well into his transition. As we talked, he asked if he could ask me a personal question. I am sure I gave my usual flip answer: Ask, but I may not answer.
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His question was simple and innocent. “Have you ever considered transitioning?” I just about bit his head off. Usually, I am very laid back so, my response to him and his question shocked us both. I tried to smooth it over and made my escape. I saw him a couple of times in the next few weeks, and each time did my best to apologize and make excuses for my behavior. In hindsight, I guess it couldn’t have sounded very sincere because I didn’t understand why I reacted as I did. Over the next months, whenever I was in a quiet space, it would haunt me. It was so out of character I was really bothered by it. I tried to push it aside with all kinds of excuses, but it kept coming back. Finally, I realized I would have no peace until I figured it out and honestly explored it. I was helping a friend do some research on transitioning and I came across a term that seemed vaguely familiar to me. In 1968, when I was in the Marines, I was sent for a psych exam. While carrying my file to another location, I peeked inside. The doctor had written that I had Gender Identity Disorder. Of course, I had no idea what that meant and assumed it was because he thought I was gay. Now, as I read all the data, I
Options | July 2014
understood. Once the first memory was unlocked, a bunch more began to surface. All the years of depression I had survived washed away. I finally felt comfortable within myself, and all because of one simple question that threw me a curve ball.
O: Have you ever been denied an opportunity due to being gay?
At this year’s Pride, after 11 years, I was finally able to tell Stephen Alexander what an impact his simple question made on my life; to thank him for helping me discover my true self; and to finally give him a genuine apology which he graciously accepted.
I recall going to a new doctor for migraine-like headaches. He ordered some blood work, and then he started to ask some very pointed and personal questions. I asked if he wanted to know if I was gay. He said yes, and I replied that I was. His response was to say he could not treat me since, obviously, that was the cause of my problems. I never went back and he never got paid.
O: What’s your advice for people who may experience confused reactions to their gender expression? B: When I was much younger, and oh so militant, I got very riled up when people got my gender wrong. I have learned that people will see what makes sense to them, what fits their perceptions. In nearly all situations, when someone assumes gender incorrectly, it really doesn’t have any effect on the situation, so, I just can’t be bothered to correct them. Now that I have a better understanding of myself, I am really ok with it. A very wise friend once told me a simple rule to live by: Pick your battles. So, unless incorrect gender identification really impacts a given situation, let it go. O: How did your sexual and gender expression affect your family life? B: My dad passed away when I was 21; I came out when I was 24 and in the Marine Corps. Sex and sexuality were never spoken of at home. I finally explained to my mom that my “friend” was a lot more than a friend. I know she never really understood, but she accepted me, and therefore my partner. It was many years later, long after both of my younger sisters had come out, that she told us how lucky she was to have three lesbian daughters, saying, “Most mothers have daughters who get married and move away with their husbands and rarely see each other after. I have three daughters who have brought me three more daughters and you are all here. I’m lucky.” We couldn’t argue with her reasoning.
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B: Fortunately, that hasn’t happened in a long time. I can remember being denied renting an apartment more than once, and there were many jobs I applied for but didn’t get that had more to do with how I dressed than my actual qualifications.
O: Have you ever experienced or witnessed a hate crime? B: While with MCC in the 70’s, they weren’t called hate crimes; what happened to our church and its members was truly based on hate. For several years, we utilized individual apartments for worship services. It was only after a multitude of incidents and the publication of what we endured in the Providence Journal, that we were offered the use of space in main line churches. For months, nearly every Sunday, as we gathered in prayer, we were pelted with rocks. Neighbors gathered outside taunting us. I have no idea how many times we had to replace the window glass in the downstairs door and the windows of the apartment where we worshiped. After we put in plexi-glass, fireworks or garbage were thrown into the hallway. When we began locking the door and stationing someone to let in people for services, those attending were harassed when they tried to enter. As Pastor of MCC Albany, NY, I had the sad occasion to attend months of a trial for a police officer who had attacked and killed a young gay man from the town I lived in. The former police officer was convicted and I held a memorial service for the young man who lost his life to hatred. O: How long have you been involved in the Imperial Court of Rhode Island, and what is your role within the organization? B: I first learned of the Imperial Court in early 2003. I found it to be the type of organization I could pour my heart and
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soul into - more of a family than a simple group of people. Their main purpose was to raise money to give to groups who needed help and support. I joined in June 2003 and have held a number of positions at various times. I was elected Emperor 16, becoming the first female to serve as an Emperor in Rhode Island. I currently serve as Secretary of the Board of Directors and Minister of Protocol and I am a member of the College of Monarchs. O: I understand you’ve recently been reunited with family. Would you tell us a little about that? B: In 2011, Gov. Chaffee opened the door for adult adoptees to receive their un-amended birth certificates. I picked mine up on the first day they could be obtained: July 2, 2011. I began spending every moment searching for my birth family. I posted a notice on one of the search boards at Ancestry.com. I soon received an email response from Kate Monteiro explaining that both she and Tina were pretty good at searching in Ancestry. Both promised they would see what they could do. The next day I printed the eight pages of info they had sent. I had, in my hands, my birth mother’s obituary, which listed all my brothers and sisters. There were numerous phone numbers and I called every one, finding all but one was out of service, so I left a message asking for a return call. None came. I continued what I thought would be a long search and made more calls. On July 11, I received a call from a young woman returning my call. It
took a couple moments before I was able to determine this was my brother’s daughter, and my niece. I told her who I was and that I would love to learn a bit about my mother and maybe even see a picture of her. She relayed this all to my brother who told her to have me contact my sister who would likely have a photo. I could not believe I had actually found my birth family. I immediately called my sister and said, “Hi, I think I am your sister.” I was prepared for nearly any outcome except the one I got. She said, “Thank God you found us.” Within a week, I had met all three of my sisters and a brother, a few nieces and nephews. Last year we held a family reunion and I met my brothers and more nieces and nephews and greats to go with them. Two of my sisters, my brother-in-law, and my niece attended Coronation with me. My birth family has attended events both here and in Connecticut to show their support for me. What amazes me even more is how they keep thanking me for letting them share my life. I am eternally grateful to Tina Wood and Kate Monteiro whose help enabled me to locate my birth family in nine days. O: Would you share a favorite community memory, perhaps from a Pride Parade, State House moment, or Imperial Court event? B: I have so many incredible memories of the community. I think I have to share this final note. I moved back to Rhode Island
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from Albany in 1997. Not long after I returned, I received a phone call from a man who identified himself as Rodney P. Davis. He inquired if I was the same Belle Pellegrino who was in the first RI Pride Parade. When I confirmed that I was, he invited me to speak at that year’s Pride Festival and I accepted. I arrived at India Point Park quite early in the morning. There was a foot bridge that went over the roadway. I went up the path and stopped at the top to look out over where the Festival was to be held. As I watched, I was deeply touched to see how it had grown since 1976. I saw the stage being assembled, booths being readied and there was a children’s area being prepared. In that dewy early morning, I just stood and wept. I was so proud of what we as a community and as a family had grown to become -- proud to have played some small role in the birth of what I saw in front of me. I will never forget that moment and the feeling of absolute joy, peace, and Pride.
JDHS PHOTOS
On the Shoulders of Giants is an ongoing series showcasing those who have dedicated decades to furthering LGBTQ equality in RI and have made major contributions to our community’s shared history and victories. This is the fourth interview in the series.
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Y B R DE llo Kelly Scafarie
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he State of Rhode Island is famously known for many things such as The Big Blue Bug, Del’s Lemonade, Providence Bruins, Pawtucket Red Sox and the quahog. What you may not know is that our small state is also famous for the “first all-female, flat-track roller derby league in New England” known as the Providence Roller Derby League. This non-profit self-organized in 2004 and is one of the original teams in the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA).
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The Providence Roller Derby League (PRDL) is a fastpaced group of females with names like Freak ’N Awesome, Shelby Bruisin’, Craisy Dukes and Luce Cannon, who practice and compete on roller skates at the speed of light (or so it seems) in bouts on surfaces such as the Ocean Club Skating Rink in Narragansett, Thayer Arena in Warwick, the Bank of America Center and Rhode Island Convention Center, both in Providence. According to the WFTDA, teams are comprised of five skaters who wear protective gear including helmets, wrist guards, and knee pads while racing around a track as each team’s “jammer” tries to score points by lapping opponents. This isn’t easy, as “blockers” attempt to stop opposing jammers from advancing ahead of their own team, preventing points from being scored. Women must be athletic, fast, and resilient to play on these competitive Rhode Island teams (Mob Squad, The Sakonnet River Roller Rats and The Old Money Honeys), which play against each other in-state. The Providence Roller Derby Travel Teams (Rhode Island Riveters, Killah Bees and Rocky Point Rollers) skate against teams home and away from states like Connecticut, Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts and New Jersey. Those interested in becoming “rollergirls” can attend a PRDL recruitment event. They’re held almost every month and can be found on the PRDL website or their specific recruitment Facebook page. While you do not have to be a rock star on roller skates (although that would help), you do have to be at least 18 years of age and willing to dedicate time to the league. The members of the league will teach you the tricks of the trade and help train you to be a bad-ass on the track.
can get into this roller derby thing? Go check out a bout! The travel team, Killah Bees, plays on July 19 at Thayer Arena against the Hartford Wailers of Connecticut at 6pm, followed by the Mob Squad and Sakonnet River Roller Rats at 8:30pm. What better way to spend a summer night than checking out some athletic chicks on skates? Can’t catch the July bout? No problem. There will be other bouts around the state each month through October. Ticket prices range from $5 to $10. The PRDL can also be found in the community supporting local businesses and organizations. It’s common to see members of the league attend events around Rhode Island to get the word out about this fast-paced sport. Many lesbian women compete in PRDL, and the league participated in the Pride Parade last month, and also attended Terror Con at the Convention Center. So what about those crazy athletes’ names? The WFTDA says, “Skaters are ‘normal’ during the day. We work; we’re moms, students, etc. Roller derby is our escape from day-to-day life and our opportunity to embrace a tougher, edgier side of ourselves. When you step into the rink, your derby alter ego takes over.” Checking out the PRDL names, it is clear that these ladies are having fun with their alter-ego names. What would your name be? After much deliberation, I think my roller derby name would be Kelz Belz. So, whether you are interested in learning more about the league, want to join a team, volunteer, or simply just take in a bout, check out the Providence Roller Derby League website at http://providencerollerderby.com, Facebook page at Providence Roller Derby Recruitment, or email info@providencerollerderby. com for more information. Don’t let the summer skate by you!
What about non-skaters and those men who are interested in the sport and still want to show up without lacing up those skates? The PRDL welcomes all types of volunteers and wannabe officials. Just check out the website and Facebook page for more details.
This sounds great, but what if you are still not sure if you
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The Center for Sexual Pleasure & Health
The Difference Between
&
Pansexuality
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uch like dubstep or calculus, the difference between pansexuality and bisexuality can be confusing and difficult to understand. Although there is some overlap with bisexuality, many pansexuals would regard their sexual orientation as distinct and, perhaps, more inclusive. Bisexuality suggests the potential for attraction to more than one gender or sex, whereas pansexuality implies a potential attraction to all gender identities and sexes, including those that fall outside the traditional binary of “male” or “female.” Acknowledging the existence of different genders, sexes, and sexualities including androgyny, intersex, and genderqueer, is a major aspect of pansexual identity. However, some important similarities between these orientations should be noted. For example, both bisexual and pansexual individuals might be cisgender, transgender, or genderfluid, as sexual orientation is distinct from gender identity. Additionally, the label a person chooses does not necessarily predict or convey their support for transgender rights, nor does it imply a discriminatory bias.There are certainly many bisexual people who would consider dating outside the gender binary, but the term pansexual is thought to embrace that possibility more explicitly. More than anything else, sexual orientation is defined by self-perception, which can change and evolve across time. There are individuals who may engage in the same sexual behaviors throughout their lives but will identify differently at times due to cultural context or personal preference. Though sexual orientation is usually linked to behaviors and/or desires for certain acts and partners, it does not always correlate to an individual’s sexual history. For example, some people who have had same-sex encounters still identify as heterosexual, especially if their primary attractions are to the opposite sex or gender. Furthermore, some bisexual people may only have had sex with people of the same sex or gender, but do not identify as gay or lesbian because of their general attraction to the opposite sex, non-gendered persons, or something in between. Attraction and action are both important aspects of sexual orientation and, rather than forcing terms upon people, we should permit and promote each individual’s freedom to construct their sexual identity. With regard to pansexuality and bisexuality, the primary difference is more grounded in political thought than competing desires. A person who chooses to identify as pansexual usually does so with intention and purpose,
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Bisexuality Kimberly Jackson
aiming to bring awareness of gender diversity into the forefront. Of course, people who identify as bisexual can also feel strongly about inclusion and gender awareness, but may have chosen to describe themselves using labels and language that are easier to understand. Some individuals may identify as both pansexual and bisexual, depending on the context and social environment. Given that pansexuality is a newer concept, there could be many people who fit the label but might be unfamiliar with its existence. The Center for Sexual Pleasure and Health is a 501(c)(3) sexuality education and training organization that works to reduce sexual shame, challenge misinformation, and advance the field of sexuality. Visit www.thecsph.org, email info@thecsph.org, or call (401) 489-5513 to connect with us. CSPH is located in The Grant Building, 250 Main Street, Unit 1, Pawtucket, RI 02860. Hours of Operation: Tuesday - Saturday, noon–6pm (and by appointment).
Welcoming LGBT professionals and their friends
A membership organization focused on: • Shared Member Contact Information • Professional Networking • Philanthropic Causes • Member Benefits
For more information, please contact: Phil Laffey at 401-727-4100, visit RI AGP on Facebook or email us at info@riagp.com
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Lesbians on the Loose Annie Cronin-Silva & Melanie Silva Melissa Ferrick. For all the 30-and-over lesbians reading this, you know what a Melissa Ferrick concert means: lots of lesbians! We’ve followed her for the past 13 years and have seen her in a variety of places including Boston and P-Town. When we heard she was holding a concert at Manchester 65 in West Warwick, we knew we had to be there. Local singer/songwriter Mary Ann Rossoni opened for her in this new event space, which is a converted mill building. Melissa sounded flawless as always. If you have never heard of Melissa Ferrick but would enjoy a fusion of indy/folk/alternative/rock/jazz music with honest lyrics and incredible harmonies, then you should check her out.
Summer is in full bloom and so is our social calendar. The month of May brought us to the beautiful island of Bermuda via the AIDS Care Ocean State cruise coordinated by Kitty Litter, with special guest BB Hayes. We couldn’t have asked for a better, more relaxing, and enjoyable time. The Norwegian Dawn left Boston on May 9 – a rainy and damp Friday. Saturday morning we were sailing into the sun and warmth. A portion of the proceeds from each cabin booked went to ACOS, so this amazing vacation/fundraiser was a win-win. Kitty held a meetand-greet in the lounge each night, and it was a fantastic way for us to get to know other passengers and staff. Even though we are out and about in the Rhode Island gay community, we enjoyed being introduced to many delightfully interesting folks and had a lot of laughs with them. We hung out by the pool, went sightseeing in the Crystal Caves, and soaked up the sun and waves on Horseshoe Bay Beach. The one-week cruise was such a success that Kitty Litter is now making plans for another cruise next year! Stay tuned to her Facebook page or ACOS’ page for more details.
RI PrideFest was soon upon us and we were ready to paint the town rainbow. Our niece, Taylor, attended the festival downtown to support her gay aunties and was even decked out with rainbow suspenders and a rainbow tie. The weather was perfect: sunny and warm with a soft breeze blowing down South Water Street. The joyful vibe at PrideFest is contagious. John Kelley, Vi’Let LaBoss, Poppy Champlin, Haley Star, and Jacqueline DiMera, and others, did a fabulous job entertaining everyone from the stage as hosts of the festival. The only one missing was our beloved Kitty Litter, who was attending a wedding in Detroit. PrideFest is a great day to catch up with old friends in the beer garden (and meet new ones), purchase Pride wear, and collect important information from the many vendors. We mingled with friends at DeVille’s Café. We’re especially glad we did because we’ve recently learned the sad news that DeVille’s doors are closed as of June 29. The all-female rock band Sister Funk played at DeVille’s on Pride night, and the place was packed. We had a great time and are so happy we spent the last Pride night at DeVille’s singing, dancing, and taking pictures with friends. We’re still holding out hope that DeVille’s will re-invent itself and re-open in a new location, yet again. It really is a lesbian landmark for Rhode Island.
June 2 brought us to the Biltmore Hotel for Kitty Litter’s 50th birthday Hi-Tini. This stylish annual fundraiser is always the place to see and be seen on a warm summer night. The skyline of Providence was a spectacular backdrop as the sun set across the city. The Providence Gay Men’s Chorus and Rodney Davis serenaded Kitty Litter as we all gathered around the garden terrace and mingled with many popular members of the LGBTQ community. Pride month continued with an intimate concert by
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Rhode Island Pride Kurt Bagley
The 39th Annual Rhode Island PrideFest and Illuminated Night Parade has come and gone. What a fantastic weekend. Thank you to all of the volunteers who played a part, no matter how small, in making the event one of the smoothest running Festivals and Parades in recent years. Special thanks to the individuals who stayed until 2am to ensure the Festival site was cleaned up and completely cleared out – a huge undertaking made necessary this year with the Providence Flea using the site on the following day, and The Flea was really impressed we pulled it off. There are some spectacular photographs floating around the web, and on the pages that follow, that perfectly illustrate why this annual event is so important. One photo in particular featured Jujubee (of RuPaul’s Drag Race fame) holding her biggest fan -- a smiling young boy wearing a skirt. The photo garnered over 20,000 likes on Jujubee’s Facebook page and has been highlighted online by Buzzfeed, NewNowNext, and the Huffington Post, among many other places. The image reminds us of one of the reasons why Pride celebrations exist
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– to allow individuals the opportunity, if only for one day, to be and to express themselves in whatever way they choose and not be judged or bullied for doing so. Pride celebrations are evolving. As being LGBTQ becomes more mainstream, we are joined by others who realize that Pride celebrations are about all of us. We want them to share in our gayness – our joy in being ourselves. One attendee noted, “I hung out with more straight folks who were there to support this year than ever... and they were so pumped and tickled at the atmosphere!” All of this is evident in the growing attendance. RI PrideFest continues to draw an estimated 18,000+ throughout
the day and preliminary estimates for the night parade are growing, coming in at around 25,000 this year – comparable to a well-attended Waterfire. These spectacular attendance numbers have great implications. Our volunteer base was lower than ever with only about 90 individuals out of our usual 125 checking in to help. Donations at the Festival entrance remain low compared to a peak about five years ago. With 25,000 people present at the parade, only $450 was collected along the route. RI Pride will face added costs next year: human costs (in the need for more dedicated and committed volunteers) and monetary costs, as we double the
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number of barricades on the parade route to protect our marchers. (Some reported bruises and fear as they were surrounded by excited, well-meaning revelers who pressed in upon the route.) Despite all this, the Pride Committee is proud of this event that has received rave reviews. Imagine what we could do with even more support for the 40th annual event in 2015? Planning has already started. Please join us! Save the date for August 23, 2014 - RI Pride Honors, our annual gala event, will be held at a location to be announced. Honorees will receive the Pyramid of Pride, awarded to an individual or group that has demonstrated lifetime commitment to advancing the cause of the LGBTQ community; the Spirit Award, awarded annually to an individual or group that best promotes and exemplifies the “spirit” of our community; and Parade awards in the categories of Best Float, Best Walking Unit, Most Illuminated, Best Interpretation of Theme, President’s Award, and the Committee’s Award. New this year, individual volunteers will be recognized for going above and beyond in their various roles. Sponsorships and reservations are available online at www.prideri.com. Mark your calendar, and make a commitment to support this event today.
OUT On the Town Photos by Jack Hartwein-Sanchez
Countdown to Pride PrideFest & Parade 6/21 Block Parties 20
Bingo Photos and pg. 27 contributed by Jennifer Bonin Options | July 2014
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OUT on the Town
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OUT on the Town
photo by Richard Boober
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OUT on the Town
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AIDS Care Ocean State Christopher Dalpe
Miss Kitty’s 50th Thank you to everyone who came out June 2 to celebrate Kitty Litter’s 50th Birthday Hi-Tini! We could not have asked for better weather while guests enjoyed the Biltmore’s Garden Terrace view of beautiful Providence. Thank you to our wonderful hosts Jeanne D’Agostino, Scott Connery and the Providence Biltmore, LaDiva Jonez, and BB Hayes. Thank you to the Providence Gay Men’s Chorus for attending and singing “Happy Birthday.” Not only did everyone enjoy a fabulous night surrounded by friends, family, and colleagues, but we were able to raise essential funds that support ACOS programs and services. ACOS at PrideFest 2014 “Who are we?” “ACOS!” “What do we do?” “We test!” AIDS Care Ocean State chanted proudly through the streets of Providence, June 21, during Pride’s Illuminated Night Parade. Thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth during PrideFest. Our amazing Prevention Staff as well as extremely dedicated volunteers assembled and distributed over 4,000 Safer-Sex Kits and we administered rapid HIV and HCV tests to over 100 individuals. We hope everyone enjoyed a safe and wonderful Pride weekend, and we are so thrilled to continue to work for and be a part of the community. If you weren’t able to get tested at Pride but would like to, be sure to visit our Prevention Center at 557 Broad St. Providence, RI 02907; call 781-0665; e-mail Prevention Specialist Raynald Joseph at rayj@aidscareos.org; or visit us online at aidscareos. org. Calling All Artists AIDS Care Ocean State is ready to kick off ArtBeat 2014! We have celebrated Rhode Island artists for 18 years and are excited to see what this year’s auction will bring. We accept donations of all types of art: jewelry, pottery, photographs and
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paintings. We also accept donations and gift certificates from vendors and businesses. Any donation supports individuals in our community who are struggling with the effects of HIV/ AIDS. ArtBeat offers artists and vendors the opportunity to showcase their specialty to a large, diverse audience. We kick off ArtBeat with an online auction that begins one month before our live auction gala on October 24 at the historic Providence Biltmore Hotel. The online auction offers a chance for people nationwide to discover and bid on the works of our talented Rhode Island artists. Those who cannot attend the live event are able to place a proxy bid online. We invite donors to join us at the auction to mix with people from the arts and corporate communities who also believe in our mission and support the important work we do. The Rhode Island arts community has been a loyal and generous supporter of ACOS, and we are grateful they share their works with us year after year. To donate an item to ArtBeat 2014, or to become a sponsor, please contact Stephen Hartley at 521-3603 or stephenh@aidscareos.org. Stay tuned to www.aidscareos.org for all ArtBeat 2014 event information.
Do your part to help prevent HIV and other STDs! You CAN make a difference!
Help scientists create products men WANT to use. Contact Project DRUM!—A research study conducted by The Miriam Hospital
Project DRUM (401)-793-8143 reprohealthteam@lifespan.org
You will be compensated for your time!
You might be eligible if: You are a man 18 and older You want to share your opinions about different products used during sex
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SAGE/RI Sally Ann Hay were a big hit. We want to thank Molly Zenobia (mollyzen@ mollyzenobia.com) for the beautiful design and for helping to get everything printed up in time for PrideFest. Gay Men’s Health Survey
Let’s Get Visible
We’ve been talking a lot about “visibility” over the last several months. Spoken or unspoken, it has been the underlying theme of everything we have been doing including the LGBT Health Fair, the Gen Silent movie event, the Community Listening Session with Lt. Governor Elizabeth Roberts and at our table at PrideFest. Quite frankly, it’s a problematic concept for LGBT older adults. For many of today’s LGBT elders, being invisible was the key to survival for much of their lives; and while things have gotten a lot better over the last decade, the instinct to stay under the radar is still very strong. As one gets older, the odds of needing help from mainstream health care providers get higher – but will those providers be prepared to offer the informed and culturally sensitive care needed to meet the unique needs of the LGBT older adults now coming to them? Hence the dilemma: LGBT elders don’t feel welcomed or safe enough to out themselves to providers (doctors, local senior centers, home health aids, staff in assisted living programs, etc.), and even well-meaning providers balk at the suggestion that they need LGBT sensitivity training (“We’ve never had any complaints… We don’t have any LGBT clients… We treat everyone the same…”). Visibility – the visibility of LGBT older adults – does seem to be the path out of this quagmire and will require all parties to step out of their comfort zones. LGBT elders need to speak up and identify themselves more often, demanding the informed and sensitive care they deserve; and mainstream providers must find the time and willingness to learn more about LGBT older (and younger) people. Pride Is Ageless
It is, indeed! We had such a blast at PrideFest this year. Many thanks to those of you who stopped by our booth to say hello and/or to sign up on our email list. Our buttons and stickers with the fabulous “Pride Is Ageless” message on them
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Pride also saw the launch of the Gay Men’s Health Survey. Bob Desrosiers, a SAGE/RI Advisory Committee member and a Doctor of Nursing Practice candidate at URI, is looking for gay men who are 55 and over to complete a survey of the health and health care needs of older gay men. If you want to participate, you can complete the survey online at www. surveymonkey.com/s/DBZSRFC. We will have some paper copies available for those of you who don’t have access to the Internet. Leave us a message at 528-3259, and we will arrange to mail you a copy. LGBT Health Fair at the State House
SAGE/RI (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders) addresses issues of concern to LGBT elders and is an organization of diverse people of all ages. For information on programs or to join SAGE/ RI, drop us a line at sageriinfo@gmail.com; leave us a message at (401) 528-3259; write to us at 235 Promenade St., Suite 500, Box 18, Providence, RI 02908, or find us on Facebook as SAGE/Rhode Island.
GREGORY’S OPTICAL
263 Wickenden Street • Providence • 401-421-4770
Face A Face L.A. Eyeworks Silhouette Olivier Peoples Alain Mikli Theo La Font
Hours: Mon-Fri 10-6 Sat. 10-4 Closed Sunday
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AIDS Project RI
What Does HIV Mean to
Young Gay Men in Rhode Island? Samuel Simas
This is what I used to say: I am afraid of contracting HIV. I am scared of how people would look at me if I were ever infected. I’m worried that I wont be able to have meaningful relationships if I were to be infected. Most importantly, I am afraid of dying because of HIV. This is what I say now: HIV is not a death sentence. It is not an indication of one’s character. It is a life-changing and lifechallenging disease that can affect any person with no requisite for gender, age, race, or sexuality. HIV was called an “epidemic” during the 80s and now exists without much noise in the background of the minds of the current twenty-somethings who regard the disease as a manageable condition. This is not to say that the fear of HIV has disappeared; my fear has not. However, young gay males like Michael (age 29) and Shane (age 28) assert, “HIV does not bear the same weight as it once did. It isn’t as scary anymore.” Michael says,“Individuals with HIV can lead perfectly healthy and happy lives.They can do everything and anything they want, although they have to take the responsibility of having safer sex – which is not a bad thing at all. And not only do they live, they thrive.” People who are infected with HIV enjoy Gay Pride, Providence Waterfire, and a night out on the town with their partners or friends as much as anyone else. Either way, they are not alone. In fact, they are very much alive. I had the privilege of befriending an HIV-positive man, though I didn’t know it at the time. He has a successful career, a beautiful apartment in the heart of Providence, and many beloved friends. On a warm summer day, he revealed his HIV status to me. I didn’t know what to say, other than to ask him questions. “How do you deal with the stigma?” And then I asked, “Is it hard for you to find partners?” He was kind and answered gently, saying, “The stigma of HIV is changing because of questions like that. People who are infected just can’t be afraid to answer them.” He continued, “Sometimes finding relationships can be difficult, but that is
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because people don’t know that they can still be safe when they are together.” I needed to know more, so I asked Michael and Shane the same questions, though they are not HIV-positive. Michael thoughtfully responded, “In a way, HIV can be liberating because then you only ever enter into your relationships with a foundation of honesty and trust. It filters out all of the unwanted stuff.” Shane says, “There is no reason that a person who is ‘positive’ and a person who is ‘negative’ can’t be together. There are resources for ‘magnetic’ couples (one who’s HIV-positive and one who’s negative) to help them stay together. The most important thing is to know your status and to be completely open about it [with each other].” Once I started asking questions about HIV, I became less afraid of it. I took charge of my health, went to get tested every three months, and educated myself on the risks of the disease. Shane notes, “HIV is a disease which all people should be conscious of – not only gay men. The best way to do this is to educate [yourself].” I sought through the wealth of health care resources for HIV-positive and negative individuals in Rhode Island to find HIV prevention and testing services at AIDS Project Rhode Island. I like getting tested. I share a brief moment with men and women of all ages in waiting rooms. We sit together knowing that, even if we never speak, our desire and commitment to maintain our health is something we have in common. It is still important to understand the seriousness of HIV. Educating oneself on the risks of HIV is one of the most important steps for prevention. Resources for HIV treatment, prevention, and education are constantly growing; please don’t be afraid to take charge of your health and get tested. If you have any questions, or would like to find out if you are at risk for HIV, a great resource to check out is www.men2menri.org. For more than 30 years, AIDS Project RI has provided HIV/ AIDS prevention and education services, as well as assistance for people living with HIV/AIDS. AIDS Project RI is a division of Family Service of RI. For more info: www.aidsprojectri.org.
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Youth Pride Inc. Kerri Kanelos
Our First Annual Report
biggest fundraiser of the year and a great way to support the We are proud to announce that YPI’s first annual report organization while getting the word out about your business. Please contact Kerri at kerri@youthprideri.org or 421-5626 if Kim Stowell King of Queens has been published and is now available Tribute on ourtowebsite: youthprideri.org. Please take a few minutes to review all of our you have any questions or are interested in sponsorship. accomplishments and acknowledge the donors and champions who made our work possible in 2013. Summer Hours Based on youth feedback,our summer hours (July andAugust) will be Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from noon to 8pm. Save the Date—Annual Event! Please mark Friday, October 17, in your calendars for Youth Pride Inc.’s annual fundraising gala.This year’s theme is “Cabaret.” Our Honorary Chair is the fabulous Jacqueline DiMera, and we are holding it at The Crowne Plaza in Warwick. You can find more event information at youthprideri.org/event. We are currently seeking businesses and individuals who are interested in sponsoring the event. There are multiple levels of sponsorship, from $250 to $5,000+. We are also seeking auction items—restaurant gift cards, travel packages, tickets to local performances, etc. This is Youth Pride Inc.’s
Let’s Flea!
JUNE 1-SEPT. 14
EVERY SUNDAY
10 AM - 4 PM
RAIN E SHINE providence river greenway across from 345 South Water St.
providenceflea.com Vintage Market
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Youth Pride Inc. provides support, education and advocacy for LGBTQQ young people ages 13-23. Our Drop-in Center is at 473 Westminster Street, Providence, RI 02903. Visit www.youthprideri. org, email info@youthprideri.org, or call (401) 421-5626 for more info.
Are you Trans or Genderqueer? Have you been to the
Emergency room?
Ever go to the
Want a Trans & Queer friendly
Emergency room? Yes? We want to talk to you!
RI Hospital physicians are hosting small group discussions with trans, gender variant, and genderqueer Rhode Islanders 18 years of age or older who have been to an Emergency Room in the last 5 years.
We are hosting ONE more group in August. All participants will be compensated for their time. Interested? email TGIED@lifespan.org or call (401) 444-8731 This research project has been approved by the Rhode Island Hospital Institutional Review Board.
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Resources
Options originated in 1982 as the offical newsletter of the Rhode Island Gay Task Force. Editor Jos Fayette explained, “The RIGTF wants to make the homosexual community aware of their options as gay men and women in Rhode Island. And it’s only because we live, work, love and play in this state that there are such a large number of options available to all of us.” Options has always, and will continue to print LGBTQ resources so that you can, as Fayette went on to say, “Exercise your OPTIONS today to make positive changes in your life tomorrow.” Help us help you! Email info@optionsri.org if you come across a resource listing that needs updating. Phone numbers are in the 401 area code and addresses are in RI, unless noted. Addiction Support Groups AA Brothers in Sobriety: Saturday 7:30pm. 372 Wayland Avenue, Providence. 751-9328. Alcohol/Drug Helpline: RI Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence. 24hr. (866) 252-3784. RI LGBT AA Group: Tuesdays 7pm. Anchor Recovery Center, 249 Main Street, Pawtucket. 615-9945. info@anchorrecover.org, www.anchorrecovery.org. Set Them Free: Narcotics Anonymous open discussion group. Wednesdays 7:30-9pm. Anchor Recovery Community Center, 249 Main Street, Pawtucket. 721-5100. info@anchorrecovery. org. www.anchorrecovery.org. AIDS/Health Resources AIDS Care Ocean State: Confidential HIV & HEP C testing, safer-sex supplies, case management, emergency funds, clinical services, assisted and supportive housing for people living with HIV/AIDS, street outreach, ENCORE, HIV+ support groups. The Speaker’s Bureau, 18 Parkis Avenue, Providence. 521-3603 (call 781-0665 to schedule an appointment). www.aidscareos. org. AFIA Center for Health & Wholeness: Meals, food pantry, HIV support groups, recovery groups, recreational and social activities. Sponsored by AIDS Project RI. Free to clients. Wednesday and Thursday 12-3pm. Mathewson Street Church, 134 Mathewson Street, Providence. Contact Gordon Cooper at 331-1350 ext. 3268. info@uwri.org. www.familyserviceri.org. Community Care Alliance: Case management, support, personal care items for people living with HIV/AIDS in northern Rhode Island. 245 Main Street, Woonsocket. 235-6092. lcohen@famresri.org. AIDS Action Hotline: MA only. (800) 235-2331 www.aac.org. AIDS Project RI: Division of Family Service of RI. Case management, buddies, COBRA and dental services, emergency fund, mental health counseling, nutrition support, assessment and referral, wellness programs, advocacy, strength training, prevention education, HIV testing. 9 Pleasant Street, Providence. 831-5522 www.aidsprojectri.org. 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. 434-4880. admin@aidsquiltri.org.www.aidsquiltri.org. Brown University AIDS Program: Clinical trials, public policy, research, lectures, conferences, patient and community education. 121 South Main Street, Second Floor, Providence. 863-6790. brunap@brown.edu. brown.edu/Departments/BRUNAP.
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Comprehensive Community Action Programs: Medical, mental health, dental, social services, LGBT outreach. 311 Doric Avenue, Cranston. Also Coventry, Pawtucket, and Warwick. 4679610. Gabriel Care, LLC: Nursing/social worker case management and financial compensation for assistance and supervision for those living with HIV. MassHealth funded for MA residents. 376 South Main Street, Fall River, MA. Contact Jenn. (508) 678-1002. HIV Antibody Testing: Anonymous. Free or sliding scale. RI Department of Health. Providence, Newport and other locations. 222-2320. Home and Hospice Care of RI: Medical care management for HIV/AIDS. 24hr nursing staff for treatment. 1085 North Main Street, Providence. Referrals: 782-0725. Bereavement groups: Contact John Charette. 727-7079. Main Office: 415-4200 or toll-free 800-338-6555.www.hhcri.org. House of Compassion: HIV/AIDS housing. 2510 Mendon Road, Cumberland. 658-3992. LGBT Caregiver Online Support Group: For LGBTs caring for someone with chronic health problems. www.caregiver.org Luis E. Martinez House CHS, Inc.: Supportive, permanent housing for 10 adults living with HIV/AIDS and/or substance abuse. New Bedford, MA. Contact Joe Taylor. (508) 984-7514. Partners in Learning About AIDS: Outreach to minorities, women of color and LGBT community at clubs and other locations. North Providence office provides free condoms and information about STIs and post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV. 1006 Charles Street, Suite 5, North Providence. 484-7523. info@plaidsproject. org. www.plaidsproject.org. Project Weber: Services for male sex workers. Drop-in center, support groups, HIV and Hep C testing, clean needles. 383-4888. www.projectweber.org. SSTAR (Stanley Street Treatment & Resources): Counseling, drug treatment, detox, domestic violence programs, free and confidential HIV, HEP C and STD testing, education, case management and support. MA and RI locations. Main location: 386 Stanley Street, Fall River, MA. (508) 679-5222. Project Aware (HIV/HCV). (508) 324-3561. Family Healthcare Center (508) 675-1054. www.sstar.org. Steppingstone, Inc.: Welcome Home Medical case management program. One-on-one peer support in Somerset to Wareham area. HIV support groups available. Free and open to any HIV+ person 18+. 5 Dover Street, New Bedford, MA. (508) 9847514. www.steppingstoneinc.org.
Options | July 2014
Tranquil Mind & Wellness: Counseling, alternative healing, yoga, Pilates, meditation.109 Rhode Island Road, Lakeville, MA. (508) 947-1683. www.tranquilmind.net. Thundermist Health Center: Provides HIV/AIDS services including medical care and treatment by an HIV specialist, dental care, behavioral health counseling, nutritional assessment and counseling, pharmacy consultation, free and confidential HIV testing. 450 Clinton Street, Woonsocket. Contact Philip Kane. 767-4100 ext. 3516. Information/Education The Center for Sexual Pleasure & Health: Education, pleasure, health, advocacy. Thursday-Saturday 12-6pm and by appointment. 250 Main Street, Unit 1, Pawtucket. 489-5513. www.thecsph.org. Fenway Community Center LGBT Helpline: Support, information and referrals. Fenway Community Health Center, Boston. Open daily 6-11pm. (617) 267-9001 or 888-340-4528. GLBT National Help Center Hotline: Local resources nationwide provided by social services agency. 888-843-4564. www.glbtnationalhelpcenter.org. Newport Out: LGBT website for Newport. www.newportout.com. RILGBT-NEWS: Low-volume email distribution list for LGBT & AIDS news from RI. Not a discussion list. To subscribe:tinawood@cox.net. United Way of RI Referral Line: 2-1-1
Small Firm Service, Large Firm Results. Civil, Family & Criminal Law
Divorce Adoption Child Support Visitation Personal Injury Auto Accidents
Contract Disputes Defective Products D.U.I Restraining Orders Criminal Defense Civil Rights
Carol L. Ricker, Esq.
Attorney at Law-Licensed MA and RI
Rameaka Law Offices, Inc.
873 Warwick Avenue, Warwick, RI 02888 401.781.3777 Carol.l.ricker@gmail.com www.rameakalaw.com Options | July 2014
Nightlife The Alley Cat Providence: Downtown neighborhood bar. Monday-Thursday 3pm-1am, Friday 3pm-2am, Saturday 2pm-2am, Sunday 2pm-1am. 17 Snow Street, Providence. 272-6369. Bobby’s Place: Dancing, pool, video lounge, karaoke. Sunday-Wednesday 5pm-1am, Thursday-Saturday 5pm-2am. 62 Weir Street, Taunton, MA. (508) 824-9997. www.bobbysplacema.com. Brooklyn Coffee Tea House: Special events space, film screenings and other public and private events. Open mic first and third Saturday 8:30-10:30pm. 209 Douglas Ave, Providence. 521-2095. www.brooklyncoffeeteahouse.com Club Body Center: Gay men’s sauna. Membership required. One-day pass available. Open 24hr. 257 Weybosset Street, Providence. 274-0298. www.clubbodycenter.com. The Dark Lady: Downtown bar and nightclub. Tuesday-Thursday 9pm-1am, Friday & Saturday 9pm-3am, Sunday 9pm-1am. 17 Snow Street, Providence. 272-6369. EGO: Providence’s newest gay nightlife performance/event space. Sunday and Thursday 9pm-1am, Friday and Saturday 10pm-3am, 73 Richmond St, Providence. 383-1208. www.egopvd.com. KiKi at Lola’s: 18+ lesbian dance party. Sundays 9pm-1am, Lola’s Cantina, 525 South Water Street, Providence. 383-0220. www. facebook.com/kiki.lolas.58. Mirabar: Downtown bar and nightclub. Monday-Thursday 3pm1am, Friday and Saturday 3pm-2am, Sunday 3pm-1am. 15 Elbow Street, Providence. 331-6761. www.mirabar.com. Providence Eagle: Leather, Levi, bear cruise bar. Monday-Thursday 2pm-1am, Friday 2pm-2am, Saturday-Sunday 12pm-2am. 124 Snow Street, Providence. 421-1447. The Stable: Downtown video bar. No cover. Monday-Thursday 2pm-1am, Friday 2pm-2am, Saturday 12pm-2am, Sunday 12pm1am. 125 Washington Street, Providence. 272-6950. Political & Legal Groups American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): 128 Dorrance Street, Suite 220, Providence. 831-7171. riaclu.org. Amnesty International OUTfront: Program to campaign globally for LGBTIQ human rights. (212) 807-8400. Cvohs18904@ yahoo.com. www.amnestyusa.org. Brown University Queer Alliance: Student advocacy and support organization. queer@brown.edu. Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders (GLAD): LGBT/HIV legal info hotline. Weekdays 1:30-4:30pm. 30 Winter Street, Suite 800, Boston, MA. (617) 436-1350 or (800) 455-GLAD. gladlaw@glad.org www.GLAD.org. Lambda Legal Defense & Education Fund: 120 Wall Street, Suite 1500, NY. (212) 809-8585. www.lambdalegal.org. 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. 863-3062. tnt@ brown.edu. RI Commission on Prejudice and Bias: Hate crime awareness training program. www.hatecrimeri.org.
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RI Human Rights Commission: Anti-discrimination law enforcement agency with jurisdiction in employment, housing, public accommodations and credit. 180 Westminster Street, 3rd floor, Providence. 222-2662 TTY: 222-2664, richr.ri.gov. Servicemembers Legal Defense Network: Serving LGBT military personnel and veterans. PO Box 65301, Washington DC. (202) 328-3244. or (800)-538-7418. sldn@sldn.org. www.sldn. org. Religious & Spiritual All Saints Memorial Church: 674 Westminster Street, Providence. 751-1747. asmcri@verizon.net. www.allsaintsmemorial. org. Amicable Congregational Church: UCC. Open & Affirming. Pastor William Sterrett. Sunday 10am. 3736 Main Road, Tiverton. 624-4611. amicablechurch@aol.com, www.amicablechurch.org. Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists: robin@awab.org, www.awab.org. Barrington Congregational Church: UCC. “The white church.” Sundays 10am 461 County Road, Barrington. 246-0111. office@ bccucc.org, www.bccucc.org. Bell Street Chapel: Unitarian Universalist. A welcoming congregation. Rev. Ann Willever. Sundays 10am. 5 Bell Street, Providence. 273-5678. www.bellstreetchapel.org. Beneficent Congregational Church: UCC. An Open & Affirming congregation in the heart of Providence. Co-Pastors Todd & Nicole Yonkman. Sundays 10am. 300 Weybosset Street, Providence. 331-9844. BeneficentChurchUCC@gmail.com www.beneficentchurch.org. Berean Baptist Church: A safe and welcoming place for all God’s children. Sunday 10am. 474 Chapel Street, Harrisville. 568-5411. bereanbaptist@verizon.net, www.bereanri.org. Calvary United Methodist Church of Middletown: LGBTQ early dementia support group. Contact Amy. Sundays 10:30am. 200 Turner Road, Middletown. 847-6181, www.middletownmethodist.com. Central Congregational Church: UCC. An Opening & Affirming Congregation. Sundays 10:30am. 296 Angell Street, Providence. 331-1960. www.centralchurch.us. Channing Memorial Church: Unitarian Universalist. A Welcoming Congregation. Sundays 10am. 135 Pelham Street, Newport. 846-0643. administrator@channingchurch.org www.channingchurch.org.
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Charter Oak Grove ADF: An Open and Welcoming Congregation of Neo-pagan Druids in CT. charteroakadf@gmail.com, www.charteroakadf.org. Christ Church in Lonsdale: Episcopal. 1643 Lonsdale Avenue, Lincoln. Services 8am and 10:30am. 725-1920. office@christchurchlincoln.org, www.christchurchlincoln.org. Church of the Epiphany: A diverse Open & Affirming Episcopal congregation. 1336 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence. 4345012. info@epiphanyep.org, www.epiphanyep.org. Church of the Holy Paraclete: Independent Old Catholic. Fr. Jakob Lazarus. Sunday 6pm. 155 Douglas Avenue, Providence. 218-0706. www.holyparaclete.org. Edgewood Congregational Church: UCC. Open & Affirming. Service 10am. 1788 Broad Street, Cranston. 461-1344. office@edgewoodchurchri.org. www.edgewoodchurchri.org. Emmanuel Episcopal Church: Sundays 8 and 9:30am. 120 Nate Whipple Highway, Cumberland. 658-1506. office@emmanuelri. org. www.emmanuelri.org. First Congregational Church in Bristol: An Open and Affirming Congregation. Pastor Dan Randall. 281 High Street, Bristol. 2537288 www.fccbristol.org. First Unitarian Church: A welcoming congregation. Sunday 10:30am. 1 Benevolent Street, Providence. 421-7970. admin@ firstunitarianprov.org, www.firstunitarianprov.org. First Unitarian Church: Service 11am. 71 8th Street, New Bedford, MA. (508) 994-9686. admin@uunewbedford.org, www. uunewbedford.org. First Universalist Society: UU. Welcoming congregation. Same-gender weddings. 262 Chestnut Street, Franklin, MA. (508) 528-5348. fusf@verizon.net www.fusf.org. Foxboro Universalist Church: UUA. Service 10am. 6 Bird Street, Foxboro, MA. 508-543-4002. chair@uufoxborough.org, www. uufoxborough.org. Grace Episcopal Church in Providence: 175 Mathewson Street, Providence. 331-3225. hello@gracechurchprovidence.org, www.gracechurchprovidence.org. Immanuel Lutheran Church: A Reconciling in Christ congregation. Pastor Sandra Demmler D’Amico. 647 North Main Street, Attleboro, MA. (508) 222-2898. www.immanuellc.org. Interweave at Channing Memorial UU Church: A membership organization for the spiritual, political and social well-being of LGBTQ persons, and their allies, confronting oppression. 135 Pelham Street, Newport. 846-0643. Mathewson St. Church: United Methodist. 134 Mathewson Street, Providence. 331-8900. MathewsonStUMC@gmail.com. Mercy of God Community: Christian, inclusive religious order. mercycomm@yahoo.com, www.mgc.org. Murray Unitarian Universalist Church: Marriage and commitment ceremonies for all. Rev. Bob McKetchnie. 505 North Main Street, Attleboro, MA. (508) 222-0505 www.murrayuuchurch.org. Newman Congregational Church: Open & Affirming. 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford. 434-4742. www.newmanucc.org. Newport Congregational Church: UCC. Open & Affirming. Rev. Hayes and Rev. Baker. 73 Pelham Street, Newport. 849-2238.
Options | July 2014
Park Place Congregational Church: 71 Park Place, Pawtucket. 726-2800. office@ppucc.necoxmail.com, www.parkplaceucc. com. The Pub Church: A church that meets in a pub! Open & Affirming. Location may change. Saturday 5pm. The Dugout, 722 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA. thepubchurch@gmail. com. Pilgrim Lutheran Church: An inclusive congregation. Sundays 8 and 9:30am. 1817 Warwick Avenue, Warwick. 739-2937. parishasst@pilgrimlutheranri.org, pilgrimlutheranri.jimdo.com. Pilgrim United Church of Christ: Open and Affirming. 635 Purchase Street, New Bedford, MA. (508)-997-9086. Riverside Church: UCC.15 Oak Avenue, Riverside. Service 10am. 433-2039. www.rcc-ucc.com. St. Augustine’s Church and Episcopal Center at URI: 15 Lower College Road, Kingston. 783-2153. Sundays 8am and 10am. StAugustinesChurch@necoxmail.com, www.staugustineuri.org. St. James Church: Episcopal. 474 Fruit Hill Avenue, North Providence. 353-2079. St. Martin’s Episcopal Church: Sundays 8 and 10am. 50 Orchard Street, Providence. 751-2141. StMartinsNB.Secretary@gmail. com, www.stmartinsprov.org. St. Martin’s Episcopal Church: Welcoming Church. Monthly LGBT Eucharist. 136 Rivet Street, New Bedford, MA. (508)9948972. stmartins1887@comcast.com, www.stmartinsma.org. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church: Sundays 9am. 50 Park Place, Pawtucket. 728-4300. office@stpaulspawtucket.org, www.stpaulspawtucket.org. St. Paul’s Church: A welcoming Episcopal church. Sundays 9am. 2679 East Main Street, Portsmouth. 683-1164. stpaulsportsmouthri.org. St. Peter & St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church: 25 Pomona Avenue, Providence. 272-9649. stpanda25@verizon.net, stpeters-standrews.org. Saint Therese Old Catholic Church: Open & Affirming. Fr. David Martins. Sunday 10:30am. 134 Mathewson Street, Providence. 680-9076. stocc134@gmail.com, www.saintthereseocc.org. Second Congregational Church of Attleboro: UCC. Open & Affirming. 50 Park Street, Attleboro, MA. Sunday 10am. (508) 222-4677. office2nd@verizon.net, www.attleborosecondchurch.org. Seekonk Congregational Church: Rev. Joy Utter. Sundays 9am. 600 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk, MA. (508) 336-9355. sccucc@ verizon.net, www.scc-ucc.com
MARJORIE L. ROBLIN, LICSW Counseling & Psychotherapy * Caring, Confidential, 35 years *LGBTQ, Ind/Cpls/Fam * Insurance Accepted "What ever is on your mind, how ever you are feeling,you do not have to go it alone. Come on in and we'll talk..."
FOR APPOINTMENT: (401) 942-5093 Options | July 2014
Soka Gakkai: Buddhist association for peace, culture, and education. Contact for weekly meetings in Providence. 930 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston. (617) 264-2000. www.sgi-usa.org. Temple Agudas Achim: Reconstructionist congregation. 901 North Main Street, Attleboro, MA. (508) 222-2243. office@ agudasma.org, www.agudasma.org. Temple Beth-El: Rabbi Sarah E. Mack. 70 Orchard Avenue, Providence. 331-6070. info@temple-beth-el.org, www.temple-beth-el.org. Temple Emanu-El: A welcoming conservative congregation. Rabbi Wayne Franklin. 99 Taft Avenue, Providence. 331-1616. info@teprov.org, www.teprov.org. Temple Habonim: A warm, welcoming Reform congregation. Rabbi Andrew Klein. 165 New Meadow Road, Barrington. 2456536. office@templehabonim.org, www.templehabonim.org. Temple Sinai: A welcoming Reform temple. Rabbi Peter Stein, 30 Hagen Avenue, Cranston. 942-8350. webmaster@templesinairi. org, www.templesinairi.org. Unitarian Church in Fall River: Sunday 10:30am. 309 North Main Street, Fall River, MA. 508-678-9700. office@unitarianchurchfr.org, www.unitarianchurchfr.org. Unitarian Universalist Society of Fairhaven: Service 10:30am. 102 Green Street, Fairhaven, MA. (508) 992-7081. www.uufairhaven.org. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of South County: 27 North Road, Peace Dale. 783-4170 or Val 789-7282. uucscri@yahoo.com. www.uusouthcountyri.org. Westminster Unitarian Universalist Church: A UUA Welcoming Congregation. 119 Kenyon Avenue, East Greenwich. 884-5933. www.westminsteruu.org. Social Organizations Bear Providence: Monthly social events for the bear community. www.bearprovidence.com. Bisexual Resource Center: PO Box 170796, Boston, MA. (617) 424-9595. brc@bicresource.net www.biresource.net. Biversity Boston: Mixed-gender social events for Boston and the surrounding area. (617) 424-9595. biversity-subscribe@biversity.org, www.biversity.org. Boston Bisexual Women’s Network: Social activities including monthly brunches, coming out groups and quarterly newsletter “Bi Woman Quarterly.” www.biwomenboston.org. Bears Ocean State (BOS): Informal e-group for gay & bisexual bear-identified and-affiliated men for friendly companionship. All welcome. groups.yahoo.com/group/bearsoceanstate. Cape and Islands Gay & Straight Youth Alliance (CIGSYA): 56 Barnstable Road, Hyannis, MA. (508) 778-7744. info@cisgsya. org, www.cigsya.org. Communisong:: For unity through song. Non-performance monthly singing session. www.communisong.net. CORISMA: Potluck get-togethers for couples from RI and southeast MA. corismainfo@comcast.net, www.corismagroup. org. Defenders/Providence: Leather/Levi club. Third Sunday, 6pm. PO Box 41153, Providence.
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Imperial Court of RI at Providence: Drag and non-drag performers raise funds for local charities. First Monday. All welcome. RI Pride Office,1005 Main Street #1105, Pawtucket. PO Box 6583, Providence. icri.prov@gmail.com. www.icriprov.org. Mixed Borders Gardening Group: Gardening and more. Monthly meetings, all welcome. Mixedborders@cox.net. www.MixedBorders.com. Opera Club: Enjoy hearing and attending. Last Sunday of each month at 1pm. BrettCornellpi4@aol.com. Providence Gay Men’s Chorus: New season rehearsals begin in January and August. Singers and non-singing volunteers welcome. Monday 7-9:30pm. Beneficent Church, 300 Weybosset Street, Providence. www.provgmc.org. RI Association of Gay Professionals: Professional networking and philanthropy. riagp.com. RI Parents Pride: Gay parents socializing together with their children. Contact Melanie. 464-2288. saphicangel120@yahoo.com. RI Pride: Open house 4th Wednesdays. Festival & Parade 3rd Saturday in June. Mail: PO Box 1082, Providence. Office: 1005 Main Street #1105 Pawtucket. 467-2130. info@prideri.com, www.prideri.com. RI Prime Timers: Social and networking group for gay and bisexual men 40 and older. Second Sunday. Contact Steve Kagan. 996-3010. www.riprimetimers.org. RI Skeptics Society: Yearning to talk with someone rational? Refreshing discussion. Fourth Saturday. East Providence restaurant location. www.meetup.com/skeptics-133/. RI Women’s Association: Lesbian social group. 21+. Dances & events. www.riwa.net. SAGE/RI (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders): Advocacy, education and social events for LGBTQ seniors. 235 Promenade Street, Suite 500, Box 18, Providence. 528-3259. sageriinfo@ gmail.com. SEMASSMEN: Social group for GBQ men of southeastern MA & RI to foster strong friendships. Semassmen-subscribe@yahoogroups.com. rlevass@yahoo.com. Yankee Lambda Car Club: Regional club for GLBT people interested in vintage & specialty cars. www.yankeelcc.com
Boston Gay BASKETBALL League: ksg.bgbl@gmail.com, www.bgbl.com. Big Gay Al’s Duckpin BOWLING League: Proceeds benefit AIDS causes. Tuesday 6:30pm. 1463 Atwood Avenue, Town Hall Lanes, Johnston. Contact Frank Ferri. 831-6940. www.bgalbowling.com. www.townhalllanes.com. FLAG (For Lesbians and Gays) FOOTBALL: Boston-based recreational football club. All skill levels are encouraged to participate. Saturday mornings in the fall and spring. www.flagflagfootball.com. Boston Pride HOCKEY: www.bostonpridehockey.org. Rondeaus KICKBOXING: 272-5425. www.rondeauskickboxing. com. Main Street MARTIAL ARTS: Non-profit. Welcoming dojo and community center. 1282 North Main Street, Providence. 274-7672.www.mainstma.org. Chiltern Mountain Club: OUTDOOR recreation club in New England. events@chiltern.org. www.chiltern.org. Boston Gay ROWERS: Worldwide online community for gay and lesbian rowers, coxies, coaches, and race officials. www.glrf. org. Boston Ironsides RUGBY Football Club: www.bostonironsides.org. Frontrunners Rhode Island RUNNING Group: Running and walking group. Newcomers welcome. Meet at the end of Blackstone Boulevard at Hope Street, Providence. Thursday 6pm. Contact Brian. 751-7643. bripm@cox.net, frontrunnersri@ gmail.com
Sports PrideSports Boston: Network of twenty-plus gay sports leagues/ teams in Boston area. www.pridesportsboston.com.
Take Food Further One Season at a Time
Rue De L’Espoir American Bistro Cooking
99 Hope St., Providence, RI 02906 info/reservations 751-8890 the rue.com open daily breakfast, lunch, dinner
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Options | July 2014
Individual & Couples • Solution-Focused Psychotherapy Meditation Instruction • Insurance Accepted
Linda Handel
LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR
401-274-7225 | Providence lhandel@gmail.com
Frontrunner.s Boston RUNNING Group: Morning walk/run along the Charles River. Saturdays,10am. Club Cafe, 209 Columbus Avenue, Boston, MA. www.frontrunnersboston.org. OutRyders SKIING: New England’s largest gay and lesbian ski and snowboard club. www.outryders.org. Boston Strikers SOCCER Club: Non-profit social organization to learn and improve soccer skills in a relaxed, congenial environment. www.bostonstrikers.com. Renaissance City SOFTBALL League: New players and boosters always welcome. www.providencesoftball.org. Beantown SOFTBALL League: Friendly competition. 27 teams in 4 divisions of play: competitive, intermediate, and two recreational. (617) 297-7490. www.beantownsoftball.com. LANES (Liquid Assets New England SWIMMING): Fitness and/ or competition. (617) 937-5858. www.swim-lanes.org. TENNIS-4-All: Boston area tennis organization. www.tennis4all. org. Cambridge Boston VOLLEYBALL Association: Players of all skill levels welcome. secretary@cbvolleyball.net www.GayVolleyball. net. Ocean State Pride VOLLEYBALL League: Adult co-ed indoor league following USVBA rules. No try-outs. Fee applies. Kent County YMCA, 900 Centerville Road, Warwick. ospvolleyball@ gmail.com. East Coast WRESTLING Club: 467-673 ecwc@juno.com. www. eastcoastwrestlingclub.org . Students & Youth Bristol Community College Gay/Straight Alliance (BCC/GSA): Steven Camara, Advisor. BCC-H202, 777 Elsbree Street, Fall River, MA. (774) 357-2391. Brown University Queer Alliance: Umbrella organization at Brown University for LGBTQ groups. 863-3062. queer@brown. edu or lgbtq@brown.edu. CCRI Triangle Alliance: an LGBTQQ student-run group at CCRI, on the Flanagan, Liston, and Knight campuses. www.ccri. edu/triangle/. COLAGE: Support and social activities for children of LGBT parents. Coordinator Veronica Jutras.. Third Saturday 10:30am12pm. Gordon School, E. Providence. rhodeisland@colage.org www.colage.org/colage-chapter/colage-rhode-island-chapter/.
Peer Listening Line: Youth-staffed hotline for GLBT youth. Support, info and referrals. 5-10pm. Fenway Community Health Center, Boston, MA. (617) 267-9001 or (800) 399-PEER. www. fenwayhealth.org. Salve Regina University – The Alliance: 100 Ochre Point Avenue, Newport. Contact: Mandy Hart. mandy.hart@salve.edu. SeaQuel (Southeast Asian Queers United for Empowerment and Leadership): a program of PRYSM. Monthly Sunday meetings. 383-7450. SeaQuel@prysm.us. www.prysm.us. S.H.E.P.A.R.D. (Stopping Homophobia, Eliminating Prejudices and Restoring Dignity): Providence College, 1 Cunningham Square, Providence. 865-1631. shepard@providence.edu. The Trevor Project:The only nationwide, around-the-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for LGBT youth. Also offers social networks. (866)4-U-TREVOR (866-488-7386). thetrevorproject.org. University of RI Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer & Questioning (LGBTIQ2): Alumni association. 874-5808. gsimonelli@uri.edu. URI Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer Center: A cultural department for students, faculty and staff. Florence Badejo. 874-2894. Youth Pride Inc./The Way Out: Support, education & advocacy for LGBTQQ young people ages 13-23. Monday-Thursday 12pm-8pm, Friday 4-8pm, Saturday 10am-5pm. The Way Out peer support group Tuesday 5pm. Gender Spectrum support group Tuesday 5:30pm. Ask about 14-and-under day. 743 Westminster Street, Providence. 421-5626. info@youthprideri.org www.youthprideri.org. Support Groups & Social Services Abuse Victims and Survivors: Support on phone for LGBTQ victims & survivors of partner abuse. Confidential peer-led groups. Hotline: (617) 742-4911. TTY: (617) 227-4911. advocate@tnlr.org. Adoption Options: Non-sectarian help. Jewish Family Service, 959 North Main Street, Providence. Contact Betsy Alper. 331-5437. www.adoptionoptions.org. Community Care Alliance: Stipend, assistance, training provided by Family Resources Community Action. 235-6095. www. famresri.org.
Elizabeth A. Coderre, LMHC Board Certified Diplomate in Professional Counseling
Psychotherapy with Individuals, Couples and Groups Most Insurances Accepted
194 Waterman Street Providence, RI 02906
Options | July 2014
401-487-0024 401-765-4519
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Foster parents needed: For newborn to age six. 276-4300. www.childrensfriendri.org. Family Service RI: Training, stipend, support provided for nurturing families. Family Service of RI. Contact Gregary Wright. 331-1350 ext. 3305. www.familyserviceri.org. Seven Hills Behavioral Health: HIV Prevention and Screening. 310 South Main Street, Fall River, MA. (508) 235-1012. T.W.I.S.T. (508) 672-0378. Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center: Offering resources for victims of domestic violence. 723-3057. www.bvadvocacycenter. org. Compass: FTM trans info, support and social group. Boston first Thursday 7-9pm. compassftm@gmail.com. www.compassftm. org. Crossroads RI Hotline: (800) 367-2700. Day One (Formerly Sexual Assault and Trauma Resource Center of RI): Counseling & legal aid for victims of sexual assault/ abuse & incest. 24hr hotline. (800) 494-8100. 421-4100. www. dayoneri.org. Domestic Violence Resource Center of South County: Support, court advocacy, counseling, safe home, info for women and men in abusive or controlling relationships. 24hr free and confidential helpline. 782-3990 or toll free 800-494-8100, www.dvrcsc.org. Gay Fathers of Greater Boston: Support. 738 Main St. #323, Waltham, MA. (781) 333-8429. info@gayfathersboston.org, www.gayfathersboston.org. Gay Men’s Domestic Violence Project: Support, info, shelter. 955 Massachusetts Avenue PMB 131, Cambridge, MA. (800) 832-1901. www.glbtqdvp.org. Gay Officers Action League/New England (GOAL/NE): Law enforcement officers (sworn & civilian), fire, rescue and publicly employed EMS. Confidential. P.O. Box 587, Boston, MA 02117. (617) 376-3612. info@goalne.org, www.goalne.org. Gay Share: Coming Out? Gay men’s support group. No fee. Wednesday 7:30pm. Contact Tom or Mike. 369-9448. info@ gayshare.org, www.gayshare.org. Helpline for LGBT Youth: Trevor Helpline and social networks for crisis and suicide prevention. 24/7. (866) 4-U-Trevor. HIV+ Gay Men’s Support Group: Refreshments served. AIDS Care Ocean State, 18 Parkis Avenue, Providence. 521-3603. New members contact Scott. 640-3108. Kathy’s Group: Free support group for lesbians with cancer or any life-threatening illness. Partners and caregivers welcome. Meets monthly in Providence. 888-5KATHYS. Mantalk of S.E. Mass: Socializing and discussions for gay, bi and curious men. Confidential. Drug and alcohol-free. 18+. Taunton Thursday and New Bedford first Tuesday. 7-8:30pm. mantalksouthcoast@yahoo.com. National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Assoc./New England: Works for fair and accurate media coverage of LGBT issues. info@nlgja. org, www.nlgja.org.
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PFLAG (Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians & Gays): Greater Providence chapter. Serves all of RI and southeastern MA. First Wednesday 6:45pm. Met School, 325 Public Street, Providence. 751-7571. PFLAGprovidence@gmail.com, www.pflagprovidence.org. RI Coalition Against Domestic Violence: 24hr helpline: (800) 494-8100. 467-9940. RI Rainbow Support Group: For people with disabilities who identify as LGBTQ. Last Tuesday. 98 Rolfe Street, Cranston. 6-7:30pm. Contact Ken Renaud. 785-2100. Samaritans: 24hr hotline for suicidal, lonely, despairing, depressed. (800) 365-4044. 272-4044 (RI only). www.samaritansri.org. Sexual Health Education & Advocacy Program: HIV, sexual wellness, domestic violence risk reduction. Free, confidential, bilingual (Spanish). No caller ID used. Calls blocked for safety. Contact Aida. 861-6191 ext. 121. amanduley@sojournerri.org. Sojourner House: Support, shelter, advocacy and information for people in abusive relationships. No caller ID used. Outgoing calls blocked for safety. 24hr helpline 765-3232. 861-6191. www.sojournerri.org Straight Spouses Gro.up: For information on groups and online support. www.straightspouse.org. TGI Network of RI: Support, advocacy for transgender, transsexual, gender-variant, genderqueer and/or intersex people. Borderlands peer group first and third Tuesday 7-9pm. 4415058. info@tginetwork.org, www.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. First Wednesday 6:30-8:30pm. Providence. Location unpublished for privacy. partners@tginetwork.org. TransYouth Family Allies: Support for gender-variant and transgender children ages 3-18. info@imatyfa.org, www.imatyfa.org. Transgender American Veterans Association (TAVA): Growing organization to address the concerns of fair treatment of transgender veterans and active duty service members. www. tavausa.org. Women’s Resource Center of Newport and Bristol Counties: Offering services to victims of domestic violence. 846-5263. www.wrcnbc.org.
Options | July 2014
Worth a Look The Lit Chick
HBO’s new film, The Normal Heart, retells the story of the emergence of AIDS in New York City; documents the devastation caused by a perfect storm of shame, apathy, and discrimination; and details how AIDS ravages the body, mind and relationships. Mark Ruffalo is stunning in his portrayal of Ned Weeks, an author-turned-activist whose outrage about the apathy in the gay, straight, and medical communities drives him to be outrageously outspoken for the cause. The cast includes Julia Roberts, Taylor Kitch, Jim Parsons, and Matt Bomer as the true love that Weeks finds in the midst of the crisis. It is extraordinary how many personal stories are told in the course of the movie’s two hours. Directed by Glee’s Ryan Murphy and produced by Murphy, Brad Pitt, and Scott Ferguson, The Normal Heart is based on the largely autobiographical play by Larry Kramer. It felt like a horror movie, though ultimately the real horror is that it actually happened. This underscores the importance of awareness, research, compassion, and the relevance of AIDS-care charities, including our own AIDS Care Ocean State and AIDS Project Rhode Island. This film is not to be missed. Watch The Normal Heart on HBOGO.com or order the DVD at HBO.com. I first heard Mary Ann Rossoni when she opened for Melissa Ferrick
last June, and she won me over when I played her newest album, Edentown, during a recent South County adventure; the album was the perfect road trip accompaniment. Rossoni has surprising poetic turns in her lyrics and an expert ear for sound. The album, her eighth fulllength recording, is about looking back on life, contemplative to the max, and reflects a lifetime of hardship, loves, and losses.
Rossoni, a Johnston native and longtime Providence resident, has a solid grasp on sound and storytelling. Fans of traditional country music will enjoy this album. It took me back to my summers in the country and made me wish I could play it for my uncle, who sat at night with his only real luxuries: his records and his pipe. It is a good choice for a long road trip, and one that ends at Allie’s Donuts is never a bad thing. “Heaven awaits, with a Manhattan and a smoke.” True story, Mary Ann.True story. Find Rossoni’s new album (and her previous ones) at her website, www.rossoni.com. Novelist Johnny Diaz is back, with a nod to our capital city, in his latest book,
Looking for Providence. The novel, his fifth self-published work, follows Ronnie Reyes, a 25-year-old CubanAmerican, Wayland Square resident and business reporter looking for a plum features job and trying to find the love of his life. He just may find it in a handsome local toy executive named Phil, with a little help from his Miami Cuban wingman, Elias. This is a light, engaging beach read, heavily sprinkled with the familiar sights and sounds of Providence. I especially enjoyed Diaz’s description of the vagabond life of a reporter and changes in the news industry. Diaz knows this turf; he’s a former reporter for the Boston Globe and Miami Herald, he now writes features for the South Florida Sun Sentinel.
“Providence was always a fun weekend escape for me during my ten years in Boston, and I wrote this book as a love letter to the city,” says Diaz, whose other books are set in Boston and Miami. Order Looking for Providence and Diaz’s other books (which also involve manhunting) on Amazon.com.