2011-03-01 outlook columbus by Outlook Media, Inc

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outlook The politics Issue

mar 2011 • vol 15 issue 10

inside: Snapshot Network Doug Preisse Where’s the Trans? Working with Republicans Kathryn bond Stockton Gohi calendar Food Drama! @ O'Shaughnessy’s trippin’ out to Miami enlarged clitoris in Savage Love & Local celebrity Justina

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mar 2011

Chris loves Shamrocks shaken not stirred.

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you are here

snapshot

6 hey! 9

qmunity: local

qmunity: national

small pond

14 open kimono

OWNERS AND PUBLISHERS Michael Daniels & Christopher Hayes HEADQUARTERS Outlook Media, Inc. 815 N High St, Bsmt Ste ii Columbus, OH 43215 614.268.8525 phone 614.261.8200 fax www.outlookmedia.com SUBSCRIPTIONS & DISTRIBUTION Call 614.268.8525 BUSINESS DIRECTOR Michael Daniels: mdaniels@outlookmedia.com ADVERTISING ACCOUNT REPS Chad Frye cfrye@outlookmedia.com Mary Malone mmalone@outlookmedia.com NATIONAL ADVERTISING Rivendell Media - 212.242.6863

general gayety

politics is political

18 truth wins out

The hell, you say. Politics is political? Obvious on its face.

insightout

transpicuous

need to take notice.

Gay Republican columnist Matthew Tsien talks about the Rs moving generationally to the left, while libby Peter Ryskewecz bemoans Obama’s As we go to press with this issue, there are major shift to the right. [But didn’t we just say the Rs developments on many fronts – the Obama adare trying to stop collective bargaining and that’s ministration has just announced that it will no a gay issue, and Obama decided not to defend longer defend DOMA and that in the opinion of the DOMA? WTF-2?] President and the US Attorney General, DOMA is unconstitutional. Thousands are descending on Vice President Joe Biden lets us know what Promthe Ohio Statehouse to oppose SB5 and support ises have been Kept by him and Barack over the collective bargaining for government workers. The past two years. Promises Kept, not Promise KeepWisconsin Senate is at a standstill while Democ- ers. That’s different still. rats are in hiding to prevent a similar bill from passing. The craziest news is that soon, on the island of blue that is Columbus, in the sea of blood red that What’s interesting about all of these developis Ohio, the chairmen of both political parties will ments is the passion they invoke and the coaliattractive, out gay men – Doug Preisse (R, intertions they form. The Ohio SB5 demonstrations viewed within) and Greg Schultz (D), soon to ashave big burly straight Democratic firefighters cend to the chair of FCDP. Yours trulys (or trulies holding protest signs with demure Republican which is the plural?) are launching the nation’s school librarians and radical queer boys from OSU. first Who’s Who book dedicated to the GLBT community, and we’re celebrating Joan Crawford’s The faces of the Parties are changing. Young gay birthday with an evil drag queen and wire hangers Republicans are more abundant – or at least more in support of the anti-violence group BRAVO. visibly out – and gay Republican groups are speaking at CPAC, where Ron Paul, the only con- Welcome to the Politics and Agenda issue of outservative candidate who supports full marriage look, kiddies. Sit down, strap in, and strap it on. equality, rules the day and Sarah Palin is consid- It’s gonna be a bumpy 2011 in the Cbus, espeered ‘too progressive.’ WTF-1? cially on Apr 1-2, when the “Americans for Truth” oxyhomomoronically-named group brings its antiOlder disenfranchised Democrats are once again gay conference to one of America’s most GLBT-inemboldened and impassioned around issues, if clusive cities. This is not an April Fool’s joke not candidates, and a former Governor seems (www.americansfortruth.com). They won’t anmore popular in a red t-shirt and a red state than nounce the location of their conference yet, but he ever was in a blue suit and a blue administra- what do you want to bet that the GLBT community tion. never patronizes any hotel or meeting space that would host this kind of hate. Really? Would you In this issue, we try to sort some of this out – or at host a Klan rally, or a Nazi meeting? No business least give it some perspective. owner or convention planner with an ounce of sense will be caught dead near the event – and Equality Ohio’s new ED, Ed Mullin, talks about we’ll hold accountable those that are. what can and can’t be done at the Statehouse this year. And he’s obviously planning on planting Now, where did we put the Xanax and Malbec? Oh, roots; he says he’s staying until Ohio has full mar- yes, there they are. Right next to our car keys. riage equality. Buckle up. Not so fast.

Pundit and strategist extraordinaire Ian James ex- Michael & Chris plains why collective bargaining and SB5 really Your co-publishers and co-pilots ARE gay issues and why even non-union GLBT folk outlookcolumbus.com

super mario world

complete the circuit

feature

calendar / about town

ADVERTISING DEADLINES Reservations by the 15th of each month. Art in by the 20th. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & ART DIRECTOR Christopher Hayes hayes@outlookmedia.com EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Phillecia Cochran pcochran@outlookmdia.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jon Dunn, Michael Daniels, Leslie Robinson, Wayne Besen, Regina Sewell, Tara McKenzie Allison, Mario Pinardi, Mickey Weems, Matthew Tsien, Ian James, Peter Riskeweez, Joe Biden, Charlie Rockafort, Julie Roth, Romeo San Vicente, Larry Lazzari, Mackenzie Worral, Ryan Harris, Chad Paul Frye, Andrew Collins, Dan Savage, Chris Hayes, & Jack Fertig. CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Mark Puskarich, Wayne Owens, Chris Hayes, Seth Martin, Mary Malone, cover: Fornax CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER Robert Trautman

features INTERNS Mackenzie Worrall, Sam Malone

music is the answer

creative class

deep inside hollywood

interview

48 bookmark 50

fashion forward

food drama!

trippin’ out

savage love

local celebrity astro forecast

NEXT MONTH the i ♥ cbus issue

What do you get when you cross an elephant and a rhino? HellifIknow, but Star Jones is a cunt.

CYBERSPACE http://www.outlookcolumbus.com http://www.outlookmedia.com http://www.networkcolumbus.com http://twitter.com/outlookcolumbus facebook @ outlook: columbus outlook columbus is published and distributed by Outlook Media, Inc. the first day of each month throughout Ohio. outlook columbus is a free publication provided solely for the use of our readers. Any person who willfully or knowingly obtains or exerts unauthorized control over more than 5 copies of any issue outlook columbus with the intent to prevent other individuals from reading it shall be considered guilty of the crime of theft. Violators will be prosecuted. The views expressed in outlook columbus are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or personal, business, or professional practices of Outlook Media, Inc. or its staff, ownership, or management. outlook columbus does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness or reliability of any interpretation, advice, opinion, or view presented. Outlook Media, Inc. does not investigate or accept responsibility for claims made in any advertisement. Outlook Media, Inc. assumes no responsibility for claims arising in connection with products and services advertised herein, nor for the content of, or reply to, any advertisement. All material is copyrighted ©2011 by Outlook Media, Inc. All rights reserved.

mar 2011

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DRAG @ LEVEL FEBRUARY 1, 2011

ScORE BARS lAST STRIPPER STANDING

JAGER BODY SHOTS NEvER END wEll

wHOlE lOTTA FISH

THE BAR’S BAlD-HEAD cOuNT’S ABOuT TO SOAR

Save the Tatas @ Club20 FEBRUARY 6, 2011

ROBYN FEBRUARY 8, 2011

NETWORK @ TRAXX FEBRUARY 9, 2011

Aw HONEY, THAT STuFF GROwS BAck

kONIcHIwA BITcH POSTPONED

THE MAYOR AND lINDA lOvE TRAxx!

YOuR HOSTS - A TRIPlE SHOT OF ESPRESSO

NETWORK @ TRAXX FEBRUARY 9, 2011

PUB GOLF TOUR RED BRICK FEBRUARY 8 2011

STADIUM VIRGINIUM FEBRUARY 13, 2011

IF ONlY THERE wERE A wAY TO MARkET lESBIANS...

THE REvERSE OREO

cHEATER!

THE lONG lOST FIFTH POISON MEMBER

STADIUM VIRGINIUM FEBRUARY 13, 2011

PUB GOLF TOUR JIMMY V’ s FEBRUARY 15, 2011

CHRIS LOGSDON @ UGLY TUN A FEBRUARY 17, 2011

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I THINk I cOulD STAY wITH YOu FOR AwHIlE...

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THE NIGHT FREESIA MADE MORE $ THAN GINNY

Save the Tatas @ Club20 FEBRUARY 6, 2011

DRAG @ LEVEL FEBRUARY 1, 2011

mar 2011

Have event photos? Email them to Art@outlookmedia.com

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Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a debate in the office on how to pronounce SNUS: sinus or snus... debate.

mar 2011

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SB 5 is More Than Just a Union Issue, It’s A GLBT Issue Too Lost amid the coverage of Senate Bill 5 is the attack on domestic partner benefits. Historically, collective bargaining has protected and preserved equality. Mother Jones fought for better working conditions of Irish-Americans, women and minorities. Susan B. Anthony used journalism to help women organize for equal pay. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. saw workers rights as civil rights. To borrow words from Dr. King: unions are “the great equalizer.” Recently, public union negotiations have brought domestic partner benefits to workers in Ohio. One only needs to consider the specific language of Senate Bill 5 to see what the future holds:

First they came for the Jews and I did not speak out because I was not a Jew. Then they came for the Communists and I did not speak out because I was not a Communist. Then they came for the trade unionists and I did not speak out because I was not a trade unionist. Then they came for me and there was no one left to speak out for me. Courtney Johnson 5781 Park Pl. Hilliard, Ohio 43026

Thank You Cbus Dear Home Run Club Members, Sponsors, Volunteers, and the Columbus Community:

It is hard to believe five months have passed since we hosted the 2010 NAGAAA Gay Softball World Series. The organizing committee has closed the Any public act, record, or judicial books and is preparing for our final reproceeding of any other state, coun- port to the NAGAAA Board and Deletry, or other jurisdiction outside this gates at the upcoming Winter Meeting state that extends the specific bene- in Chicago. We thought it would be a fits of legal marriage to non-marital great time to thank you once again for relationships between persons of the your support and provide a brief wrap same sex or different sexes shall be up of the event. considered and treated in all respects as having no legal force or We are pleased to report the event was effect in this state and shall not be an overwhelming success for our recognized by this state. (Senate Bill league, for our LGBT community, our 5 Section 3101.01) city, and the thousands of players and fans - many visiting Columbus for the Our public unions often reflect the di- first time. Our primary goal was to creversity of our communities including ate such a positive impression on our single mothers, members of the GLBT guests they would want the Gay Softcommunity, persons with disabilities, ball World Series to return to Columbus and other minorities. What happens to on a regular basis. Based on feedback, the single mother on the police force there is no doubt we achieved our goal. who loses 15% of her pay? What hap- Numerous guest comments indicated pens to the cancer patient when her this was the best World Series ever! partner’s benefits are taken away? If Many of the compliments centered on Senate Bill 5 becomes law, what hap- our amazing army of volunteers who pens to the diversity of our workforce? went the extra mile to make everyone feel welcome. We are sure it comes as Senate Bill 5 is not about balancing a no surprise that many of the comments budget. There is no evidence to support could be grouped in the category of, that this bill will do anything to stimu- “We had no idea what a great city late the economy. Moreover, Senate Bill Columbus is.” 5, in its elimination of collective bargaining, also eliminates the balance In addition to leaving a positive imnecessary to a functioning two-party pression on our visitors, the event gensystem. Is that what we want in Amer- erated positive national media ica? Who will stand up for our civil exposure for our city in Compete Magarights then? zine, Instinct Magazine, and over the airways of Sirius OutQ radio. We’ve reThis debate reminds us of the words cently been notified by Experience attributed to German theologian, Mar- Columbus that our organizing committin Niemöller: tee and the World Series have won a

mar 2011

2011 Expy Award! Experience Columbus presents the award for an event that provides a more vibrant and distinct experience for residents and visitors to Columbus. Award finalists demonstrate a high degree of uniqueness and creativity and help advance the image of our community on a regional, national, and international level. We will accept the award on Tuesday, March 8 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center.

this attention was prompted by the alarming number of youth suicides and well-publicized cases of anti-gay violence that captured media attention in the United States and reverberated in many other countries. These cases unfortunately represent the tip of the iceberg - violence, isolation, depression, suicide and homelessness are serious problems for our young people, particular for youth of color and those mired in poverty.

We are also proud to report the Series was a financial success. Experience Columbus confirmed the event generated an estimated $5 million in visitor spending. The Talent Show raised $10,000 for Camp Sunrise and the Columbus AIDS Task Force. Additionally, local organizations collectively raised almost $6,000 in tips working beer trucks at all the events. The Greater Columbus Sports Commission received a letter from Dine Originals Columbus acknowledging the positive financial impact the event had on our local restaurants.

The rights to housing, education, security, bodily integrity and to share in and create culture are all guaranteed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and yet LGBT youth everywhere face violations of these rights. Countless young people around the world have shared with IGLHRC stories about being mistreated by family members, school and health-care officials, police and other authorities.

While so many U.S. politicians and celebrities are communicating to LGBT youth that it gets better, we must not forget the plight of LGBT young people The proceeds from the event will allow outside of the U.S., who face chalus to make a donation to NAGAAA to lenges that are simultaneously all too support future World Series and histori- familiar and vastly different. cal preservation; to return a sizable amount of money back to the ColumIn 2009 in Belize, Jose Garcia, a 19bus Lesbian and Gay Softball Associa- year-old secondary school student was tion; to support strategic investments threatened with expulsion because Jose that ensure the continued success of “acts like a girl” and “dresses effemithe largest GLBT sports organization in nately.” Transgender and gender-quesOhio; and to create a substantial head tioning youth in schools almost start on fundraising for our next everywhere are subjected to discrimiColumbus World Series bid, tentatively nation, physical and verbal abuse and in 2014 or 2015. they are often forced to wear uniforms or clothes that do not match their genNone of these accomplishments would der identity. have been possible without your financial support and hard work. We would In Lithuania, a new law criminalized also like to thank our amazing Board the distribution of information about whose creativity, enthusiasm, and sexual orientation through any medium commitment to our community turned to which children have access, depriva dream into a reality. We never ing young people of vital information doubted our community could pull an about their health and lives. The law event of this magnitude off, and we are was modified after significant internaso proud of how the event brought our tional outcry, but another proposed law entire community together. You defiwould now make an offence the “pronitely stood tall! Thanks again. motion” of homosexuality - thus preventing pride marches - under the Brian Lawrence and Dallas Aldridge same rational of protecting minors. Co - Executive Directors Columbus 2010 In Uganda, girls and young women who are rumored to be lesbian, or who visiExpecting Better: LGBT bly violate gender stereotypes are often from schools or denied school Youth Around the World expelled fees by family. The proposed Anti-Homosexuality Bill currently being deIn 2010 we saw some long-overdue at- bated in Uganda would worsen this tention given to the extreme challenges situation by making schools and famifacing young LGBT people. Tragically,

We love to hear from you at outlook. Put your voice in the paper by writing editor@outlookmedia.com

lies culpable under law for not reporting young LGBT people to the police. And in Jamaica, as 2010 drew to a close, a university student was savagely beaten by his colleagues after being lured into an intimate conversation with a classmate who was posing as gay. While organizations that serve LGBT youth in the U.S. are often underfunded and under attack by the religious right, at least they exist. In the Global South, where LGBT movements are younger, dedicated youth programs are rare. In fact, LGBT centers are often hesitant to serve the needs of young people for fear of being accused of pedophilia and ‘recruiting’ youth into homosexuality. Young LGBT people are then unable to access the critical health, legal, and psychosocial services they need. Facing this discrimination - which is compounded by sodomy laws in 76 countries around the world and the failure of most countries to provide protections for transgender people - young LGBT people are among the most marginalized groups in the world. Over the past few years IGLHRC has documented human rights violations against young people in Cameroon, Indonesia, Kenya, Mexico, South Africa, Nigeria and beyond. As an organization committed to building a diverse and empowered global LGBT movement, IGLHRC works closely with the most marginalized members of our community - young people, elders, transgender people, sex workers, and those affected by HIV. Just last month, United Nation Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said, “Stigma and discrimination will end only when we agree to speak out. That requires all of us to do our part. To speak out - at home, at work, in our schools and communities. To stand in solidarity.” To stand in solidarity with LGBT youth, we must address the unique ways they are affected by homophobia and transphobia; we must acknowledge that they face discrimination and abuse just as LGBT adults; and more than anything, we must listen to them. Some young people can’t afford to wait until it gets better. They need help now. Cary Alan Johnson Executive Director of the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission http://www.iglhrc.org

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A ferris wheel at Pride? Stranger things have happened...

mar 2011

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mar 2011

Get your business card ad in front of over 45,000 people who make, on avaerage, $71k for as little as $185 per month.

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organizations and events in creating vibrant, distinctive experiences for visitors and residents that have enhanced the image of Columbus regionally, nationally and internationally. Recipients must present unique Join a community conversation and experiThe planning committee is currently accept- events, attractions or marketing initiatives ence how two local artists - Dante Brown ing proposals for workshops, caucus panels that bring visitors to Columbus. (dance) and Liv Gjestvang (video) - raise and presentations: awareness about the complexities of power “We are fortunate to have so many individu• Detailed description of the topic through dance and film. This forum will be als and organizations in Central Ohio dedi• Information covered beneficial for anyone interested in learning • Goals or what attendees should get out cated to enhancing the visitor experience about the dynamics of intimidation - most and the image of our community. These four, of the session especially relating to the lesbian, gay, bisex• Required supplies (i.e. a computer, pro- however, stood out as examples of Columual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) bus’ hospitality, creative spirit and commujector, etc.) communities - in an educational setting. nity pride,” said Paul Astleford, president • Brief outline You will leave knowledgeable about the fun- Please submit the following to info@equali- and CEO of Experience Columbus. “These damentals of bullying and with community tyohio.org by Friday, March 12. Please limit Expy recipients not only provided exceptional resources in place to support individuals visitor experiences, they also told and presentation to 1 to 1.5 hours in length. who are often the targets of intimidation. As showed the world what a special place our part of the event, Dante Brown/Warehouse city is.” Equality Ohio Announces Dance will perform an eight-minute piece titled Chalk Boundaries. Community members Appointment of New Executive One of the 2010 Expy Award Winners is the as well as pre-service and active educators Director 2010 North American Gay Amateur Athletic of all disciplines are welcome. To register, Association’s Gay Softball World Series. NAemail edweb@wexarts.org or call The Equality Ohio boards of directors anGAAA’s Gay Softball World Series is the 614.292.6493. Cosponsored by Ohio State’s nounced the selection of Ed Mullen as the world’s largest annual GLBT sporting event. Multicultural Center in the Office of Student organization’s third Executive Director. Mr. The 2010 games, held in Columbus’ Berliner Life. Sat, March 5, 2011, 10a-4p @ Wexner Mullen was chosen following a national Park, drew more than 2,200 participants Center for the Arts. search, which was initiated in November who traveled from 36 cities in 20 states and 2010. He will lead Equality Ohio after spend- Canada. More than 12,500 people attended ing the last three years as civil rights attor- the closing black party in the Short North 2011 C.A.U.S.E. Conference ney at Access Living, an Illinois nonprofit Arts District. Total spending by visitors who which advocates for the rights of people with came to Greater Columbus for the event is The College and University Students 4 Equality Conference hosted by Equality Ohio disabilities. Check out Chris’s interview with estimated at more than $5 million. Ed further in this issue. at Columbus State Community College (CSCC) April 1-3 has issued a call for proNew Web Site for Ohio Eighth Annual EXPY Award posals.

Stand Together to Make it Better: A Forum on Bullying for Educators and Families

1-3 for an opportunity to network with college-aged activists from across the state and celebrate serving beyond the LGBTQ community.

Disaster Volunteers

Winners Announced Tentative schedule includes an invitation to attend Fusion Friday at The Ohio State University on April 1, conference sessions Saturday and Sunday (ending at noon), and an optional group outing to Gallery Hop in Columbus’s Short North Saturday night. Mark your calendars for the weekend of April outlookcolumbus.com

Experience Columbus will present four Expy Awards at Columbus: Celebrate the Experience, the organization’s annual luncheon on Tuesday, March 8. The Expy Awards recognize outstanding achievements by businesses,

The Ohio Emergency Management Agency (Ohio EMA) and the Ohio Department of Health’s (ODH) Office of Health Preparedness announced a new Web site,http://ohioresponds.gov, to support the coordinated volunteer programs that make

Hi Troy Fabish! Nice nipple!

Ohio communities safer, stronger and better prepared to respond to any emergency situation. Ohio Responds maintains a pool of volunteers who can be quickly and efficiently mobilized to respond in the event of an emergency. Activities change with each disaster, and can vary from sandbagging to answering telephones to providing medical assistance. ODH is the coordinating agency for Ohio Medical Reserve Corps. Ohio EMA coordinates the remainder of the Ohio Citizen Corps programs which include: Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT), Fire Corps, Volunteers in Police Corps Services (VIPS) and USA on Watch/Neighborhood Watch. This network empowers the “first responders” to focus on saving lives during an emergency and allows volunteers to quickly mobilize and focus on critical support tasks such as debris removal, staffing shelters or providing critical medical support for disaster victims. As community service continues to grow, Ohio Responds will support volunteering through a variety of programming to meet the needs of the individual, community and state. Ohioans who wish to volunteer with an Ohio Citizen Corps program found on Ohio Responds can register through the new Web site, http://ohioresponds.gov. This site will continue to serve existing Ohio Citizen Corps volunteers, unit leaders and points of contact. Ohio Responds was previously managed by the Ohio Community Service Council (OCSC) through the Web site, www.serveohio.org. OCSC will continue to be the point of contact for AmeriCorps in Ohio.

mar 2011

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mar 2011

Though he bruises easily, Chris will be playing in the Pride cup. Chad would, but he’s afraid he’d be confused as the ball, in other words, he’s fat.

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Facebook Adds ‘Civil Union,’ ‘Domestic Partnership’ Options to User Profiles

couples. Ninety same-sex couples (52 lesbian couples and 38 gay male couples) were studied and profiled at three separate times during their first year of adoptive parenthood.

The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), the nation’s LGBT media advocacy and anti-defamation organization, today applauded Facebook for adding ‘In a Civil Union’ and ‘In a Domestic Partnership’ options to user profiles. The option is now available for users in the US, Canada, the United Kingdom, France and Australia.

Dr. Goldberg’s research indicates that, among same-sex couples raising adoptive children during the first year those who lived in states with antigay laws and social attitudes had more mental health issues than those who lived in states that provide a more supportive legal and social environment towards gay parenting and parents. In addition, same-sex couples who reported higher perceived workplace support, higher family sup“Facebook sent a clear message in support of gay port and more gay-friendly neighborhoods reported and lesbian couples to users across the globe,” better mental health than those who reported poor said GLAAD President Jarrett Barrios. “By acknowl- workplace, family, and neighborhood support. edging the relationships of countless loving and committed same-sex couples in the U.S. and The full article, Stigma, Social Context, and Mental abroad, Facebook has set a new standard of inclu- Health: Lesbian and Gay Couples Across The Transion for social media. As public support for marsition to Adoptive Parenthood, is available in PDF riage equality continues to grow, we will continue format on Dr. Goldberg’s to work for the day when all couples have the op- website: http://www.clarku.edu/faculty/goldberg/p portunity to marry and have their relationship rec- ublications.html ognized by their community, both online and off.” Dr. Goldberg’s landmark 2010 book Lesbian and In October 2010, Facebook partnered with GLAAD Gay Parents and Their Children: Research on the and other national LGBT organizations to create Family Life Cycle, also published by the American “Network of Support,” an educational initiative Psychological Association, was the first full-length that works to combat anti-LGBT cyberbullying. analysis of the research on gay parenting, sumGLAAD also worked with Facebook to reshape the marizing research data on the subject from the way that the site responds to hateful, anti-LGBT 1970’s to the present. That research was consiscomments posted on public pages. Facebook’s tent in suggesting that the outcomes and well“Network of Support” is comprised of five leading being of children raised by gay and lesbian LGBT advocacy organizations in conjunction with parents were no different than those of children MTV’s “A Thin Line” campaign, including GLAAD, raised by heterosexual parents. GLSEN, HRC, PFLAG and The Trevor Project.

American Psychological Assoc Publishes New Research by Dr. Abbie E. Goldberg, Authority on Gay and Lesbian Parents and Their Children

HRC Foundation Releases Comprehensive State-By-State Legislative Report

done,” said HRC President Joe Solmonese. “With the 2011 state legislative sessions underway, we expect an increase in both pro- and anti-LGBT legislation and we will continue to work closely with state LGBT groups and allies in the fight for equality in communities everywhere.”

Freedom to Marry will be running ads nationwide featuring gay, lesbian and straight couples talking about why marriage matters to them. The organization has pledged to raise and spend $10 million over the next three years on the Why Marriage Highlights of the report include: Matters campaign, which launched during FreeMarriage Equality: Marriage equality took effect in dom to Marry Week on Valentine’s Day with an iniboth New Hampshire and the District of Columbia tial national cable buy on CNN. in 2010, while several state legislatures battled “Across the country the thinking of many Ameriback proposals to amend state constitutions to cans, from the president to the people next door, prohibit same-sex couples from marrying. The continues to – as President Obama put it – Maryland attorney general issued an advisory opinion allowing the state to recognize out-of-ju- ‘evolve’ toward support for same-sex couples joining in the freedom to marry. Freedom to Marry’s risdiction same-sex marriages. In this election year, most states shied away from marriage legis- team has crunched over a decade’s worth of polling data and field experience to crack the code lation. on moving the reachable but not yet reached,” Relationship Recognition: Governors played an in- said Evan Wolfson, Founder and President of Freestrumental part in both moving relationship recog- dom to Marry. “By engaging friends, families, and neighbors in personal conversations about why nition forward and in stymieing progress. The legislatures in both Illinois and Hawaii passed civil marriage matters, each of us can help fair-minded union bills, but Hawaii’s governor vetoed the legis- people wrestling with a lack of information and lation. Colorado and New York added to the num- uncertainty, and change hearts and minds.” ber of benefits available to same-sex couples. Freedom to Marry analyzed over 85 data-sets repSchools and Anti-LGBT Bullying: Bills addressing resenting 6 years of research to develop messages bullying, harassment and discrimination faced by that are proven to be effective in swaying public students made more progress than any other leg- opinion around marriage. In particular, the data showed that people who have had conversations islation with a direct impact on the lives of LGBT people. Recognizing the particular vulnerability of with their gay and lesbian friends about why marstudents subjected to harassment, state legisla- riage matters to them are more likely to support the freedom to marry. By shifting the conversation tures across the country adopted anti-bullying bills. The new laws vary widely and not all provide from a focus on rights to a conversation about shared values of love and commitment, support enumerated protections, though all make subfor the freedom to marry grows. In partnership with stantial improvements on the prior laws. local and state groups, the Why Marriage MatAdoption: While Courts in two states struck down ters campaign will include a variety of mixed media advertising, including TV, radio, and online discriminatory laws that had made it nearly impossible for gay and lesbian parents to adopt, and ads. a new law in New York secured the rights of LGBT parents, anti-equality legislators in several states “Marriage matters to gay people in similar ways have introduced discriminatory bills that would at- that it matters to everyone. Gay and lesbian couples want to get married to make a lifetime comtack the rights of all unmarried parents in both mitment to the person they love and to protect adoption and foster care. A new law in New York secured the rights of LGBT parents as equality ad- their families,” said Thalia Zepatos, Director of vocates continued to beat back discriminatory leg- Public Engagement for Freedom to Marry. “As Americans see their gay and lesbian friends, famiislation in several states. lies, and coworkers in loving and committed relationships, they realize there is no good reason to Freedom to Marry Launched withhold the protections and support that only $10 Million Public Education come with marriage. It is as simple as the Golden Campaign on Valentine’s Day Rule.”

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the educational arm of the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, Stigma, Social Context, and Mental Health: Lestoday released a comprehensive state-by-state rebian and Gay Couples Across The Transition to port detailing LGBT-related legislation in 2010 and Adoptive Parenthood, groundbreaking new rean outlook for 2011. The report indicates that the search about gay adoptive parents by Dr. Abbie E. majority of pro-LGBT legislation came in the form Goldberg, has been published in the Journal of of anti-bullying legislation. The report also details Counseling Psychology by the American Psycholog- expectations for 2011 with an expectation of an inical Association in February, 2011. crease in LGBT-related legislation in the year ahead. To view the report online, including interDr. Goldberg’s new work, co-authored with Juactive maps of current state law, visit: liAnna Z. Smith at The Center for Research on www.hrc.org/StateToState2010. Families at The University of Massachusetts/Amherst, is the first study to ex“Faced head-on with the issue of bullying in our Freedom to Marry announced the launch of “Why amine changes in depression and anxiety across schools, many states attempted to address the Marriage Matters,” the largest-ever national pubthe first year of adoptive parenthood in same-sex growing problem yet much work remains to be lic education campaign aimed at increasing maoutlookcolumbus.com

jority support for ending the exclusion of same-sex couples from marriage.

Equality begins at home. Talk to your family about you being queer.

Freedom to Marry is also launching www.whymarriagematters.org, an online resource for those interested in learning more. mar 2011

12-49_OLW_24in_ODD_ 2/23/11 8:26 PM Page 1

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mar 2011

I wish I had U-verse for all aspects of my life.

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48-13_OLW_24in_ODD_ 2/23/11 5:13 PM Page 2

“You Just Had To Be There” i-m creative

by Jon Dunn

beat, Scott finishes the thought by offering that “we travel constantly, we trust each other, finish each other’s senHave you ever been to an event that left you speechless to tences and spur each other’s creativity. The personal relathe point that you couldn’t describe it to someone else? The tionship feeds our professional relationship! We have good only way to explain it was to say, “You just had to be there.” days and bad days, but the great days totally outweigh the I-M Creative uses that feeling as their mission statement, others.” The high energy and spirit is easily detected over tcreating one-of-a-kind events and experiences that leave the phone during our interview, and their collective closeyou at a loss for words. They blend a mix of theatre and ness creates a dialog where it is often difficult to tell who is technology to inspire events for clients such as Armani, UPS, talking. Their mood is infectious and our conversation takes Reader’s Digest and IBM, among others, along with various many twists and turns. charities and foundations. All of it is done with a truly creative flair and attention to detail. How did they find themselves in Columbus, Ohio seems like a question to ground the conversation and Shannon takes Scott Ihrig and Shannon Morrison are the two sides of the up the lead. “Scott was reading a feature in the New York coin at I-M Creative, and while it would be easy to say that Times about bargain real estate markets, and it showed picShannon is the creative one and Scott is the businesstures of Columbus, including Victorian Village. We looked at minded one, it goes a bit further than that. Their story starts each other and decided to spend our anniversary weekend on location in New York City, under the bright lights of here.” They were immediately impressed by the relaxed pace Broadway. and attitude of the city. “We kept waiting for the universe to tell us that this was not the place for us” Shannon explains, “I was a lawyer,” Scott admits “but I was literally bored to “But instead, the universe kept telling us that this was the death by that, so I left there to do something else. I had place.” some background in theatre, so I started a non-profit theatre. That led to me being hired to produce the Radio City Both were very impressed by the friendliness of the commuMusic Hall Christmas Show, with the Rockettes.” The high- nity (Shannon says “it’s great to be in the gay-borhood!”) profile gig led to Scott producing other events for corporate and the range of fine dining here. “There are so many and industrial clients. He started the I-M Creative group in restaurants that are on a level with the places in NYC,” 2000 and began building a roster of impressive clientele. Scott says. “Our first meal here was at Basi Italia and what a wonderful introduction to Columbus that was. There’s a Shannon explains that his career in event planning also took great range of places, we love Dirty Frank’s and that has a a trip through the Great White Way. “I got my undergrad at very East Village, urban feel to it without being in NYC.” Yale for playwriting and then I lived in Los Angeles for a while. Then I came back to NYC to do my theater grad work The bang-for-your-buck real estate market allowed them at NYU.” The impeccable collegiate degrees notwithstandmove from a cramped loft in a “not so great section Brooking, Scott says that “they weren’t really helping me to pay lyn” to a large Victorian home near Goodale Park. The busiback all of those loans!” ness did not suffer with the transition, as most of their work He says that he began working on Broadway shows, then is done onsite with the client. “We travel constantly. Being met Scott though an online dating service and found that 20 minutes from the airport is a true luxury we didn’t have “Our personal relationship just blossomed.” in NYC,” Scott explains. They began to explore the city and fell in love with Victorian Village and the Short North. They The personal relationship also led to the professional part- found it easy to adjust to the slower tempo and more spanership that drives I-M Creative. “It’s fantastic, but it’s not cious accommodations of Columbus. without it’s challenges,” Shannon says. Without missing a

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I guess in Brooklyn they call it No-Homo Depot...

“New York City is a glamorous place but living with your microwave in the bathroom is not very glamorous,” Scott says, laughing. “And we never felt really relaxed there. New York takes so much more energy, planning and thinking about security, it’s really super stressful.” During their first trip to Columbus, the pair found people here were more accepting of their being an out couple. This seems surprising, since most people would think of Columbus as provincial and NYC as the ultimate place to be yourself. “That may be true if you live in Chelsea or the Village,” explains Scott, “but things are different in Brooklyn.” Though many issues prompted the move from NYC, a defining incident was the last straw. “One afternoon, we were at the Home Depot in Brooklyn, and as I was on line to check out, a woman started having a problem with me.” Scott says they had suffered verbal abuse before in the neighborhood, but this attack seemed almost personal. “She just decided that she didn’t like me, so she started to call me a faggot, threatening that she should beat me up and didn’t like us being there. I finally got my stuff and went out to meet Shannon and our dog in the parking lot. But outside, she just came up to us and started in again. Shannon tried to take a picture of her license plate and she tried to back her car into us!” After the woman finally left, they called the police to file a report, but the frustration didn’t end there. “She had apparently called the police as well, and the police told us that they felt it was a ‘he-said, she-said’ situation, and they wouldn’t let us file a report,” Scott continues. “One of the cops even admitted that he would’ve done the same thing to us. It was an incredibly disappointing vision of NYC as some sort of Utopia.” They found welcome relief here in Columbus. “Life is so much more delightful here,” says Shannon, adding “and I’ve even developed a taste for ranch dressing!” which makes Scott laugh. “But it gives us a full, robust life that affects us in such a positive way. Despite the economy, our business is booming and we are in such a good place that it shows in our work.” You can check out some of I-M Creative’s work on their website, i-m-creative.com, and contact them at 614.321.9462 or 212.645.0888.

mar 2011

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Should the GLBT Weep over the GOP Sweep? A conversation with Franklin County Republican Chairman, Doug Preisse by Michael Daniels

the state budget, how to turn around state government, and how to implement bold and fundamental changes to improve Ohio’s business climate. The Republican majority contains conservative, moderate, and liberal members of the party, and while I don’t see a whole of lot of champions emerging for what you might call “socially progressive issues,” I don’t see any enemies lining up either. No one in the Republican Caucus is going to focus on turning back the clock, and I think you’ll find an opendoor-open-air policy for all Ohioans.

If you don’t know who Doug Preisse is, you’re just not paying attention to Ohio politics. Preisse is a standout lobbyist, a close advisor to Ohio’s new Governor John Kasich, the coordinator of Kasich’s inauguration and the openly-gay chairman of the Franklin County Republican Party. He’s also just a nice guy to have lunch with and so that’s what I did. Recently over some fantastic noontime fare at Rigsby’s - Doug had a Caesar salad (the healthy option), I went for the chicken livers and cappellini custard (fattening but oh-so-good) - we talked MD: Governor Kasich recently issued about state and local politics and what an Executive Order barring discrimithe next couple of years might bring. nation in state employment, and that Order contains sexual orientation as a Michael Daniels: What does the GOP protected class. It differs from former sweep statewide, in both the legisla- Governor Strickland’s Order, though, tive and executive races, mean for the in that it doesn’t include gender idenGLBT community? tity. How should the GLBT community Doug Preisse: The principal issues on interpret that? which Republicans ran, and won, in DP: I wouldn’t read a lot into that, to be this last election cycle were fostering a honest. The Governor is committed to better business climate in these very combating discrimination and he isdifficult times, and those are the issues sued an Executive Order that he was on which the new Governor and General comfortable with and that very closely Assembly will be focused - how to fix followed previous Executive Orders.

mar 2011

MD: With a major focus on bringing business into Ohio, and making our state a welcome climate to start, grow, or keep a company, do you think that an Employment Non-Discrimination Act, similar to last year’s HB176, is something that is on the table? Would it be an enticement or a deterrent to business? DP: There’s no doubt that there is an evolution of private sector trends that matches an evolving general national sentiment. As the new administration and General Assembly reach out to businesses and more fully understand their concerns, they will be addressing a whole host of issues. Any impediments to business coming to or staying in Ohio will be on the table – so whether it’s taxes or regulations or the way the Department of Development was locked into its old ways of doing things, Republicans will be taking on the big issues. If not having a GLBT-inclusive employment non-discrimination law is keeping businesses from coming here, or making it harder for existing businesses to attract talent, then it should certainly be part of the debate.

MD: The GOP saw major wins statewide and several victories in Franklin County. What’s the impact of the 2010 election on the City of Columbus races in 2011? DP: First, let me say that our City and County have experienced the same challenges as many other metropolitan areas, although we may have taken a bit longer to feel them. And, as the volunteer chairman of the County Republican Party, I know that we live in a Democratic City in a Democratic County, and so we’re always starting out as the underdog. Any Republican candidate who runs for City or County office knows and accepts that, and that’s ok. We’re outnumbered [registered Democrats to registered Republicans] something like 3 or 3.5 to 1 in the City, and at least 2 to 1 in the County, but we’re going to keep fielding quality candidates and making sure that we’re having conversations about the issues that affect our residents. We’ll win some races, we’ll lose some races – but we’ll always keep putting forward our ideas, our agendas, and spurring a thoughtful debate.

The Log Cabin Republicans is the national gay and lesbian Republican grassroots organization. More info: www.logcabin.org.

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Imperoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own Justina is this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s local celebrity. Check her out page 58.

mar 2011

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SCAMPERING THROUGH THE NEWS by Leslie Robinson

anti-gay and racist comments on local news Web sites using his work computer while on You might want to do a few stretches before duty. Under the screen name “Abu Mybutt,” reading this. We’re about to race through the Egnor reacted to DADT’s elimination by sugGLBT news, and I don’t want to be blamed if gesting new military slogans like “Butt you strain something. I don’t have insurRangers lead the way!” and “Join the Navy, ance. see naked men!” He resigned from the force. Maybe he’ll join the military. Ready, set, etc. Keep up now, people. Quick quick like a Terry Jones, Florida pastor and would-be bunny. Koran burner, will be the primary speaker on the Stand Up America tour, which will conTurning to gays behaving badly, we’re off to demn the “deathstyles” of homosexuality, the Caribbean and a charter billed as the Islam and abortion. On this tour, the “world’s largest gay cruise.” Agents groupies will be War, Famine, Pestilence and searched Steven Barry Krumholz’s cabin and Death. allegedly found lots of meth, Ecstasy and cash. While they waited for Krumholz, two Another sad fellow, Congressman Chris Lee passengers came by to buy. I’m shocked, of New York, resigned after the world saw a shocked to hear of drug dealing among gay shirtless photo of himself he sent to a men in a party setting. Next you’ll tell me woman he met on Craigslist. The married, gay men and lesbians smoke a lot. socially conservative Republican wasn’t our friend in Congress. Pity. Gay men could In happier news, Mitchell Reich was elected teach the Craigslist Congressman how to the first openly gay president of the Harvard pose alluringly instead of alarmingly. Law Review. Personally, as publications go, I’d rather read the American Journal of GasNow to Colorado and another man behaving troenterology, but this is still primo news. badly. Lt. Jeff Egnor of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Department posted hundreds of And then there’s the story of Malcolm, quite

mar 2011

a kid. His mother gave him $140 to donate to the charity of his choice. He divided the money between the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center and the Human Rights Campaign. In his seven-year-old handwriting, he told the Center, “I’m sending you this money because I don’t think it’s fair that gay people are not treated equally.” Stop crying. We don’t have time for it.

GOProud. I don’t agree with GOProud on much, but if it can cause this kind of schism among rabid conservatives, I say go you boys. Hang on. Last lap. Almost there.

The Hawaii House of Representatives voted yes on civil unions, and in Maryland and Rhode Island legislative committees held In international news, the flight attendants hearings on same-sex marriage. A Maryland for a new charter airline in Thailand include state senator announced he’ll vote for gay four transsexuals. The airline is called P.C. marriage because he was appalled at the Air, which I’m certain doesn’t stand for Polit- way opponents demonized gays. Welcome to ically Correct. our world.

The word is out about a proposed gay-centric There. You’re done. Sorry for rushing you. It but open-to-everyone community near Palm was the only way to get through it all. Now Springs, Calif. The designs for “Boom” inyou can take a nap. clude 300 residences, eight neighborhoods, an entertainment center and a “rooftop mist Leslie Robinson believes in naps. E-mail her at lesarobinson@gmail.com, and check out her blog at disco.” Those might be the gayest three www.generalgayety.com. words I’ve ever heard. South Carolina Republican Sen. Jim DeMint, the Family Research Council, Concerned Women for America and other righty individuals and groups boycotted the Conservative Political Action Conference, huffy over the involvement of the gay conservative group,

Do you think he gets Koran ash stuck in his mustache when he burns them?

Scott Audette/Reuters

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Last call? This party [and the ones up the street] be moving to the bus!

mar 2011

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Trend Lines and Battle Lines

two

by Wayne Besen The trend lines point toward full LGBT equality. This was surprisingly evident last month on the FOX News Channel show Red Eye, which lampooned leading anti-gay organizations for vowing to skip this year’s Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) because a gay conservative group was invited. The show’s host ruthlessly mocked The Family Research Council, Concerned Women for America and jokingly claimed that Peter LaBarbera’s Americans for Truth About Homosexuality held shirtless meetings.

annoy.com

mar 2011

Even the Catholic stronghold of Poland is becoming more secular. While the New York Times reports that 95 percent of Poles identify themselves as Catholic, only 41 percent attend Sunday Mass regularly. In the cases of Spain, Ireland and Poland, the Catholic Church’s pedophile scandal and its meddling in politics has alienated much of these populations.

Such changes in religious orthodoxy are mirrored in the United States. A 2008 survey by the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life showed that more than 16 percent of American adults say they are not part of any organized faith, which If you need further evidence makes the unaffiliated the the world is rapidly chang- country’s fourth largest “reing, consider what is hap- ligious group.” While propening in Utah. The New gressive faiths play a key York Times reports the num- role in supporting LGBT ber of high schools that had rights, it cannot be denied active Gay-Straight Althat the more secular a naliances increased in the tion becomes, the more past year from 9 to 32, in- likely it will support equality. cluding one in St. George, a conservative town in south- Unfortunately, such obvious ern Utah. trend lines will not stop the battle lines from being Advances can also be wit- drawn by those who are fenessed at the federal level rociously resisting change. with the signing of a hate crime law in 2009 and the On the national stage, all repeal of Don’t Ask/Don’t four candidates campaignTell in 2010. ing to replace current Republican National On the international front, Committee Chairman there is rapid progress in- Michael Steele stated their cluding Ireland’s new staunch opposition to marsame-sex civil-partnership riage equality. To keep his law that was enacted Jan 1. job, Steele has veered right Barcelona, another Catholic and told the National Orbastion, is erecting a monu- ganization for Marriage that ment with an inscription he would support the Fedthat will read, “In memory eral Marriage Amendment if of the gays, lesbians and the courts decide that protranssexual people who hibiting same-sex marriage have suffered persecution is unconstitutional. and repression throughout history.” The fight for the RNC chairmanship is indicative of LGBT equality in Europe has what to expect from the been greatly accelerated by newly empowered Republithe erosion of traditional re- can Party. Now that the GOP ligious beliefs. The latest has taken over the House of British Social Attitudes sur- Representatives, the capital vey from the National Cen- is essentially a dead zone tre for Social Research has for at least two years. found that 51 percent of respondents have no religion The LGBT movement should and 42 percent say they are allocate resources to assist Christian. Just 25 years state organizations until the ago, 63 percent were Chris- dire situation in Washington tian and only 34 percent improves. State groups will had no religion. certainly need assistance as anti-gay activists work

That belt is cute. I wonder if he got it at Saks?

to rollback recent gains. For example, in New Hampshire the GOP takeover of the House and Senate have put the state’s 2009 marriage equality law in jeopardy. Anti-gay bills have already been put forward and all that stands in their way is Democratic Gov. John Lynch - provided the Republicans do not scrounge up veto-proof majorities. LGBT advocates should highlight that virtually nothing changed in New Hampshire after the marriage law was updated to be more inclusive. The gloom-and-doom scenarios painted by anti-gay advocates never came to pass, proving that same-sex marriage is no threat. So, for the legislature to take up this issue during a recession is nothing more than grandstanding at the expense of fixing the economy. As LGBT people become more accepted by mainstream society, the rhetoric of hate groups becomes more incendiary. For instance, on his radio show, The American Family Association’s Bryan Fischer said that homosexuality is “an abomination in the nostrils of God.” On the international front, gains in Europe are tempered by a near continentwide psychosis in Africa. The most vivid example of anti-gay hysteria is in Uganda, where the notorious “Kill the Gays” bill is under consideration in parliament. To be gay in 2011 is to confront a complex and confusing world, while traversing an incoherent patchwork of attitudes and laws. The positive trend lines will continue to improve, even as the ugly battle lines harden. There is little choice but to soldier on and assist in the scrappy process of consigning anti-gay activists to their ignominious place in history. Wayne Besen is Founder of Truth Wins Out. Read more at truthwinsout.org.

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I guess Batman. Batman and Robyn! Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to be the best dinner ever!

mar 2011

EVEN

20-41_OLW_24in_ODD_ 2/23/11 3:32 PM Page 1

mar 2011

Rick better not try and hit on my girl again... Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always so awkward.

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Not Ready to Make Nice by Regina Sewell Finally, after seventeen years of fighting, President Obama promised that “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” - the military’s flagrant antigay/lesbian discrimination policy, will be history by the end of the year*. “Starting this year,” he said, “no American will be forbidden from serving the country they love because of who they love.” I’d have done a happy dance when I heard this if I weren’t so cynical. I’ll admit that this is a major improvement upon Bush era pronouncements about us, but I don’t think the deal is as great as it sounds. Sure, President Obama actually also said, “Our troops come from every corner of this country they’re black, white, Latino, Asian, Native American. They are Christian and Hindu, Jewish and Muslim. And, yes, we know that some of them are gay.” But what does it mean? To me, it means that, at least in public rhetoric, we are just another group being assimilated into the melting pot. On the surface, this sounds fabulous. The catch is that assimilation comes at a price. Assimilation means that in order to be accepted, we are supposed to blend in. Hispanics with accents get shunted to the side of the “melting pot” to be investigated, searched and possibly deported. Poor, inner city blacks are pushed down to the bottom of the pot, out of sight, and blamed for their plight. Muslims are still viewed as something a bit too scary to put in the pot

at all because we can’t tell by looking at them who is a terrorist and who isn’t. What do you think is going to happen to those of us who are too flamboyant for the masculine standards assigned to men or not feminine enough to meet the standards set out for women? What will happen to those of us who are transgendered? What are “they” going to do with us? How are we going to have to change in order to fit in? From this angle, it looks like high school all over again. Assimilation also means, “Stop your whining!” It means that we are supposed to magically forget the fact that 14,000 careers were cut short under “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” (and who knows how many before that policy was instated) because of a service member’s sexual orientation. Assimilation says, “It’s over now. Get over it.” But to quote the Dixie Chicks, “Forgive, sounds good. Forget, I’m not sure I could. They say time heals everything. But I’m still waiting... I’m not ready to make nice, I’m not ready to back down. I’m still mad as hell and I don’t have time. Can’t bring myself to do what it is you think I should.” According to estimates from the Government Accountability Office, reported in Washington Post, the military spent about $193.3 million to replace approximately 3,660 troops who were discharged under “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” between 2004 and 2009. It cost, on average, $52,800 to kick someone out of the military for being gay. Somehow, we

can’t afford to provide health insurance for poor folks or the elderly, but spending $193.3 million (in only five of the seventeen years) was fine????? I’m still mad as hell. Our country paid dearly to discriminate against us. I am not ready to sweep it under the rug and pretend like it never happened. The fact that it never happened to me, that I was never discharged from the military, that I never lost my job because I’m a lesbian is irrelevant. What matters is that the government of the country I live in, pay taxes to, and pledge allegiance to, has set the precedent that it’s OK to discriminate against people like me. What matters is that the country I live in has, for years, deemed me, at best, a second class citizen. What matters is the fact that even if it were legal to marry my partner in this state, the federal government would still deny my partner and I the benefits of marriage that married heterosexual couples take for granted. We are seeing the reverberations of this discrimination in the rash of suicides by high school and college students who have been gay bashed. I am not ready to make nice. Unfortunately, resentment doesn’t change anything. While our anger at them ties our guts in knots, the politicians, bureaucrats, military commanders and anti-GLBT religious leaders are out there eating sandwiches, telling jokes, driving their cars,

watching their kids play soccer and living their lives. Our anger has no impact on them. It just makes us physically ill and sets us up to abuse substances like crack, alcohol, chocolate, sugar or another drug of choice. It’s important to acknowledge your anger and then find a way to let it go. Journal about it. Vent to a friend. Stomp on bubble wrap. Draw angry cartoons. Run or lift weights. Imagine the anger burning like fire in your belly and let it burn until it’s gone. Find a way to let it go. Taking action can also help. Whether it’s volunteering at Stonewall, Equality Ohio, GOHI, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force or the Human Rights Campaign Fund, or writing letters to or calling your political representatives, working for change can help transform the anger into something productive. Working with others on a common cause is also fun. Living well is the best revenge and laughing with folks while you help plan Pride is way more powerful than ruminating about discrimination on your own. *2011 State of the Union speech. To ask Regina a question, propose a column topic, read about her approach to counseling, or check out her books and other writing, go to www.ReginaSewell.com. You can read her blogs at www.ReginaSewell.Wordpress.com. Her most recent publication, “Sliding Away” can be found in Knowing Pains: Women on Love, Sex and Work in Our 40s, edited by Molly Rosen.

outlookcolumbus.com Electrical tape is a type of pressure-sensitive tape used to insulate electrical wires and other material that conduct electricity, made most popularly of vinyl.

mar 2011

22-39_OLW_24in_ODD_ 2/23/11 3:15 PM Page 1

by Tara McKenzie Allison

anyone, let alone “choose.” No one chooses to “be transgender;” it chooses you, and then you spend your life trying to Outgoing governor Ted Strickland’s Executive Order 2007-10S, deal with it, as best as you can. Transitioning is - hands down which protected LGBT state employees, expired when he left - the most difficult thing that I have ever done in my life and I office. In late January, Ohio’s new Republican Governor Kacertainly never felt like I had a “choice” about it. sich, finally issued his own version of an order protecting LGB state employees (Executive Order 2011-05K), but his version Perhaps, Governor Kasich felt like transgender employees omitted gender expression and gender identity from the list of simply didn’t need protection - that the transgender commuprotected qualities. Why would he do that?? What possible nity doesn’t really experience discrimination. If that’s the justification could he have for deciding that transgender em- case, he should more fully inform himself. Just recently, the ployees either don’t need or deserve protection from employ- National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and the National Center ment discrimination? for Transgender Equality (NCTE) released a comprehensive new report, entitled “Injustice at Every Turn.” The report rePerhaps, Governor Kasich feels that “being trans” is merely a veals the extent of discrimination that is levied against the choice, and that transgender employees don’t deserve protec- transgender community. Transgender people are nearly four tion, because they can just “choose not to be trans.” Well Gov- times more likely to live in extreme poverty (with household inernor, I didn’t just roll out of bed one morning and decide that come of less than $10,000). Half of those surveyed reported today would be a good day to dress like a woman. I’ve known experiencing harassment or other mistreatment in the workall my life that I should have been born female; my earliest place and one in four were fired because of their gender idenrecollections are from about eight years old. I’ve struggled tity or expression. They are twice as likely to be unemployed with “being trans” all my life, and let me just say this… NO compared to the population as a whole. One in five responONE would “choose to be trans.” dents experienced homelessness because of their gender identity or expression. These conditions are so unbearable By transitioning, I risked losing EVERYTHING in my life. I that “an astonishing 41% of respondents reported attempting risked losing every relationship I had - my marriage, my chil- suicide, compared to only 1.6% of the general population.” dren, my parents, my sister, my friends (and, with great sadness, I must report that I’ve lost some of those relationships). Wow. I can’t imagine ANY governor would sit quietly by, if I risked losing my job, my career, my house, my car… every- those statistics applied to any other portion of the population. thing that I had ever worked for. I risked not even being able Would it be acceptable if that’s what was happening to our to find enough gainful employment to house and feed myself. black community, because of racial discrimination? How I risked spending the rest of my life as an outcast from society about women, because of sex discrimination? No... I hardly - ridiculed, mocked, harassed and even physically assaulted, think that any elected official would stand for that, but beat every turn. On top of risking all of that, I took upon myself cause it’s the transgender community, apparently it’s perthe burden of tens of thousands of dollars and hundreds of fectly acceptable to Governor Kasich. hours of expensive and painful cosmetic and surgical procedures, as well as hundreds of hours of counseling and a life- Omitting the employment protections doesn’t even make ecotime of hormone therapy. Who would “choose” that?? “Being nomic sense. Since when does the Republican Party prefer to transgender” is not something that I would ever wish upon put people on the unemployment roles, rather than keeping

mar 2011

them gainfully employed (and paying taxes)?? There’s another reason that it doesn’t make economic sense for the Governor to remove these protections. Twice in Ohio, transgender people have sued the city that employed them, under federal civil rights laws, for employment discrimination. Twice, the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals has held that there is a cause of action under the federal civil rights laws for transgender individuals. The court has stated “sex stereotyping based on a person’s gender non-conforming behavior is impermissible discrimination, irrespective of the cause of that behavior; a label, such as ‘transsexual,’ is not fatal to a sex discrimination claim where the victim has suffered discrimination because of his or her gender nonconformity.” So tell me something, Governor, do the federal civil rights laws give transgender people a right to sue the state for impermissible discrimination? How does that weigh in with your economic calculations? On top of everything else, in omitting the protections for transgender employees, Governor Kasich broke his pre-election promise to “renew the 2007 executive order that no one can be fired from or denied a state job on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity” (Columbus Dispatch questionnaire for gubernatorial candidates, from August 15, 2010). Overall, the decision to omit employment protections for the transgender employees seems economically short-sighted, morally indefensible and reprehensible and just plain ignorant. I guess I expect more from my elected leaders; I actually expect them to “lead.” Tara McKenzie Allison, Esq., is a transgender attorney, who resides and practices law in Columbus, Ohio. She has served as a Board Member and Legal Counsel to TransOhio, a nonprofit organization serving the transgender community of Ohio. She currently serves on the Board of The Legacy Fund of The Columbus Foundation. She is an active speaker on transgender and legal issues, providing educational, informational, and legal services to the general public. She can be contacted by e-mail at tara_m_allison@hotmail.com.

What do you think the guy behind Kasich is thinking? I bet he’s wondering where the Governor gets his hair cut.

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Looks like Dooley got the band back together again.

mar 2011

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mar 2011

Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hang ups include people dressed like mice, Bing Crosby and yellow popsicles.

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36-25_OLW_24in_ODD_ 2/23/11 3:23 PM Page 2

Oh, What Buffoons They Are by Mario Pinardi For me, writing a piece about politics is as awkward as me trying to remember how to perform cunnilingus. I never claimed to be a politically savvy gay, and I never have been an intense and tightly-wound political gay either. However, I do enjoy watching and reading about the absurdity of politicians and their minions. I find it hard to believe that our politicians do not know how to research or feel that they are exempt from questionable public behavior. It is all about the “naughty bits,” right? I thought it would be fun to compare a hot list of politicians to the animals they represent, plus, where do these animals fit into our “rainbow rucksack” of a community? First, let’s start with Jan! Arizona Governor Jan Brewer looks like an elephant anus. She obviously has no gays in her life because they would have told her to moisturize (remember boys, this is what you can look like after 40+ years in the sun). Jan wants to cut same-sex/domestic partner benefits for State of Arizona employees in order to balance the budget. So, those 480 employees that will lose domestic partner benefits are really going to help balance the state budget? Cutting a benefit option is not a way to retain good employees, and mostly likely, will not even put a dent in the state outlookcolumbus.com

budget. And, what about Jan’s “bestie,” her dildo, Sen. John McCain? While his wife and daughter seem somewhat progressive, what is up his ass (besides Jan)? Well, while John tries to appease his conservative colleagues by being anti-gay about everything, he employs an (alleged) openly gay chief of staff and asked a woman, who supports a church that practices “gay conversion” therapy, to run with him as a V.P. candidate. Really, John? Your credibility is diminishing. What about our own governor? He is so obviously uncultured and bigoted that I cannot take him seriously. Why would he tell an African-American individual that “we (the State) do not need her kind,” then try to back step out it? Why would he illegally remove an African-American from the State Board of Education and then ask her to go sit in the back of the room? Wow. For those who voted for him, this is what you got - a poster child of cultural sensitivity and white male America. My favorite “elephant” is former Maryland representative Craig Lee - he wins the “dumb and pretty” award. I secretly want to see Craig Lee naked and I can excuse him for his political beliefs for a romp in his Capitol chamber. But, he is so dumb. He posted a shirtless picture of himself on Craig’s List seeking some punani that he wasn’t married to, then lied about his age and then was surprised that he got busted out - he did all of this while at a GOP retreat. Duh. Well, Craig, you are your

own list - the list of political doofuses. All of these folks are represented by an elephant. Hmm… Elephants use their trunks to communicate and show affection and the male elephant pretty much lives a solitary and independent life. Female elephants live in socially tight knit groups of mothers, daughters, sisters and aunts. This is kind of like our GOP friends. The GOP women do their own thing, such as the “social, fundraising” circuit and they keep away from all of the male activity, but the men, live very independently. I think this is a perfect recipe for “foolin’ around” - the ladies dress up in $1,000 dresses and eat appetizers, while the guys go to the “club” (or a hotel, or their office, or an airport stall) to play <wink>. While I enjoy taking a few jabs at the elephants mentioned above, I never want to lead or live their miserable and narrow-minded lives - venom, like theirs, can poison you. This GOP venom has been a toxic elixir within our community because of the negativity these idiots project on to us. And, the only elephant that ever I loved was Coco at the Columbus Zoo - may she rest in peace. But, in all fairness I have to make fun of one donkey, former governor Eliot Spitzer. I love Eliot’s bravado! While he is so not my type, he was a hit with the hookers. Eliot is smart though; he turned his scandal

around and got a TV show on CNN. I think Charlie Sheen needs to seek out Eliot on how to deal with hooker scandal. Donkeys have a reputation for stubbornness and for having a work ethic about them. I think Eliot worked diligently through the ebbs and tides of his “Hookergate” and thus CNN asked him to be a show host. There is a lot to say about a good piece of ass! Many of us are donkeys - we are stubborn, steadfast, and diligent. But, sometimes we are too stubborn and are unwilling to listen to others - this segments us even more, even though, we all love ass! What would our lives be without political buffoons? Well, I would be bored and have nothing to laugh about every time campaign time hits. Whether it’s Governor “Spit not Swallow” Spitzer in New York or Craig “The Stupid List” Lee, we enjoy hearing about the crazy indiscretions that politicos engage in and we get fired up about the bad, uninformed decisions they make. I, for one, would never run for a public office; I was a big Italian himbo in a previous life and I am not ashamed of it. Plus, I do not have enough confidence to engage in public policy making - I will leave that to all of the passionate Facebookers. Remember if you lead a public life; be prepared for the public consequences. Now, I wonder if Craig Lee would, at least, lick me.

That donkey has the same look Chad gives Jim when he wants forgiveness for not coming home when he said he would.

mar 2011

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mar 2011

Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s looking forward to outlook Night at the Clippers again this year? WE ARE WE ARE!

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34-27_OLW_24in_ODD_ 2/23/11 3:58 PM Page 2

by Mickey Weems

Idiots

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George Jr. constantly displayed his ignorance of basic American principles. One thing that has become clear in Dictators around the world (and terrorthe last couple of years is that Conists such as Osama Bin Laden) fell to gress moves at a snail’s pace, regard- their knees and thanked Heaven for less of who is in power. And unless Bush and his heavy-handed bulldozer there is a dire emergency, that’s the approach to politics. He made their way it should be. stranglehold on their people all the more secure. This was not so true a few years ago, when George Bush Junior’s adminis- We can attribute much of the revolutration successfully engineered tion that was long due in the Middle sweeping changes in the system by East to the fact that Obama is not an scaring the shit out of the average cit- idiot like Bush. The thugs in charge of izen. Wiretapping without restraint, in- oppressive governments don’t have carcerating people without due America-as-bully as a distraction any process, sending suspects overseas to more. All over the world, people are be tortured, legalizing such torture, now focusing on their own homegrown giving Wall Street sharks permission bullies, including the people in Wisto generate trillions of imaginary dol- consin. lars so they could skim off billions of real dollars for themselves, sending But we have a long way to go. This arAmerican jobs overseas and rewarding ticle will deal with the lies that have the businesses that did so, praising been passing as legitimate public disour soldiers while depriving them of course by idiots who know better. essential health care, gutting workplace safety regulations, ignoring en- Idiot Roll Call vironmental regulations, and parading Gay men holding hands whenever All politicians and media personalities people objected - this was what we as are idiots if they: a nation got as a result of giving in to fear. 1. Use the term “Obamacare” as if it actually means something. When This was the result when the wheels of health care reform was debated, the government turned too quickly, when one thing Obama did (much to the we gave into un-American traitors chagrin of progressives) was stay out posing as patriots, and the idiots who of it. The massive size of the bill was perpetuated their lies. due to compromise with those who were bought and sold by health insurBut let us not oversimplify. To blame ance business interests. Real Obathese attacks against core American macare would have included the values and common-sense principles public option and single-payer proviof justice on Republicans alone is to sions. ignore the complexities of the system. Our current president, Barack Obama, 2. Insist that Obama is Muslim, or do was elected because he was one of not correct their followers when spoutthe few who refused to go along with ing such hate speech. Stop it. In my the mob (both Democrat and Republi- America, it wouldn’t matter if he were. can) when Bush insisted we go to war Also, quit peeing in your pants about with Iraq. It was Obama’s principles, Shari’ah law, the antiquated code that not his party, which won him the White contributes to the oppression of people House. in the Muslim world when treated as the only basis for jurisprudence, much The strength and legacy of the Obama the same way the law code of Moses administration is the restraint our oppresses Gay people in the Southern president has used when dealing with USA today. Why do you think so many issues brought before Congress. Leg- Muslims left the countries of their islation is their problem, not his. We birth? Passing laws against an imagisaw what happened when Bush-Ch- nary Muslim threat does nothing but eney fucked with the legislative and encourage terrorist actions against judicial branches to ram through a American Muslims. poorly conceived agenda, and this is one mistake that Obama appears un- 3. Say the 2003 invasion of Iraq was willing to make. justified based on its immediate threat to the USA. The latest revelation When the president is Not an Idiot from the single informant who got us into that war (who now brags about We also must not ignore the fact that how he was lying, something our leadObama won because we were tired of ers knew before we went to war) a doofus-in-chief and the clown show leaves no doubt, as if there were any that followed him, both in his immedi- real doubt before. That little “Oops!” ate circle and in the media. Those who cost us thousands of American lives, vilify Barack, a scholar in Constitutrillions of American dollars, and untional law, must resort to ridiculing told suffering for the Iraqi people. him for being superbly educated. Does anyone else think that Usher is banging Bieber?

4. Refuse to acknowledge that Dick Cheney is a war criminal. While vice president, Cheney was the greatest internal threat to American democracy since the Know Nothing Party and its offspring, the Ku Klux Klan. Perhaps it would do more harm than good to the nation if we put him on trial and threw his sorry ass in jail. But let’s at least be honest with ourselves as to what kind of a man he is. The same goes with Donald Rumsfeld. The fact that Cheney was booed by some true patriots at CPAC is proof that there is still hope for Republicans. 5. Confuse unrestricted gun ownership with patriotism. The idiot who shot Giffords in Arizona had every legal right to carry the ammo he was packing, and was within his rights under Arizona law as he toted the means to deliver the bullets to the bodies of those he killed and maimed. Texas governor Rick Perry is the High Priest of Dolts in this regard. Gun ownership should at the very least be treated the same way we treat driving a car: licensing should be mandatory if you want to pack heat. Clips that allow any fool on the street to spew out thirty rounds in mere seconds should be outlawed as a matter of course. 6. Tell us the world is less than 10,000 years old. Our students are already falling behind those of other industrialized nations because so many of Americans privilege Christian dogma over the scientific method. You don’t insist that your car mechanic learn Bible-based auto shop, so don’t do the same thing with your child’s biology teacher. Bible-based buffoons reach sublime summits of stupidity when they excuse the pollution that is contributing to increasingly greater health problems among our people: God will take care of it! They should be careful what they wish for. We saw how God took care of the dinosaurs. Intelligent Christians wish their obnoxious siblings in Christ would simply shut their pious pie holes. 6. Continue to preach hatred against the LGBT community to distract people away from the real issues. Let’s Have Real Debate Americans can and should debate the use of our military overseas, gun rights, the merits/faults of Obama, environmental regulations, etc. But let’s start out with a baseline of honesty without the sideshows. On this we should not compromise. Let me end this rant on a positive note. I still have hope in our Congress because I’ve seen the agenda of a Democratic majority reigned in by a Republican minority, and now I witness the reverse. I think we will be OK. mar 2011

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Generational Change in the New GOP ???? by Matthew Tsien

Their colleagues Mark Kirk and Scott Brown have been lumped into the more moderate wing of the party, but they, too, are some of the youngest GOP senators. Both are 51.

President Obama created a stir last month when he reiterated that while he doesn’t support gay marriage, he still struggles with the issue. He said his views are “constantly Yet, as far as “gay issues” go, the GOP evolving.” might be more generational in their views. In the Republican Party, the fracture over issues concerning homosexual individuals revealed itself more clearly in the vote for repeal of the 17-year-old “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy that prevented gays from serving openly in the military.

Nearly all young service members supported the repeal of DADT because it simply doesn’t matter to them what anyone’s sexual orientation is - as long as you can live within the military Code of Conduct - and many happen to know and are friends with gay people.

Republicans, over the past number of years, have seen more and more gay people feeling free to come out and to live their lives openly and honestly, within the very ranks of Republican culture, such as traditional families, churches, Fortune 500 companies, Republican think-tanks and other Republican Party activities.

changes within the GOP: several prominent conservative groups have announced that they will boycott the largest annual gathering of conservatives in the country, the Conservative Political Action Committee Convention, in Washington this February, due to Gay Republicans hosting their own hospitality reception suite and a membership sign-up booth for Gays leaning decidedly to the Right.

For that reason the younger generations of Republicans are becoming increasingly familiar with issues affecting homosexual Americans. Older generations, generally don’t have that same experience of having as many contemporaries who are openly gay.

It will be inspiring and exciting to see if some of the potential GOP presidential contenders who will speak at this famous rightwing conclave, might express more inclusion Of the eight Republican senators who voted In terms of the recent Senate vote, as we toward gays in their activist Army. After all, for repeal, five are among the youngest in know most U.S. senators are old and many several of the big names being thrown about the upper chamber - and they’re not all of the Republicans are from a generation Yet the solidly right-wing Republican North as the next Republican President are under moderates. They are rather right-wing and that are clinging to old-school thoughts of a Carolina Senator Richard Burr rationalized they age of 60. And that includes right-wing the type of Republican that the gay press time long ago. However, Republicans under inspirationally, his decision to support the divas Sarah Palin, and Michelle Bachmann, and their activist class reflexively demonized the age of 60 tend to be more inclusive, even repeal of “Don’t Ask; Don’t Tell” in generathe Queens of the Tea Party movement; and as ultra-homophobic nut-jobs. if they are rightfully labeled “conservative” tional terms: also irreverent, but fiscally conservative, Rein their voting records on other non-gay ispublicans like the Governors Mitch Daniels Sens. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, John Ensign sues. “Given the generational transition that has (IN), Chris Christie (NJ) and Tim Pawlenty of Mormon Nevada and Richard Burr of Dixie taken place in our nation, I feel that this pol- (MN). North Carolina - yes, that’s Jesse Helm’s In fact, looking beyond the rigidly left-wing icy is outdated and repeal is inevitable,” he North Carolina - maintain relatively conser- gay world, many people, including centrist said. You heard it here first... vative voting records. They are 53, 52 and and GOP Gays, would argue that conservaMatthew Tsien, is Former Public Affairs Director, Log 55, respectively. tives and Republicans in general aren’t any Post-vote, there is more evidence that gay different than anyone else in America. issues may continue to show fractures and Cabin Republicans, Washington, DC Chapter.

mar 2011

I’m extremely scared of mice...

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32-29_OLW_24in_ODD_ 2/23/11 10:37 AM Page 2

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Text alerts are fun and invaluable... like a pot of gold really...

mar 2011

11:00 AM Brunch & Showtunes @ U 11:00 AM Broadway Brunch @ Level 7:00 PM Rent @ Shadowbox 7:00 PM Karaoke 8:00 PM Sunday Night Players @ Wall St 10:00 PM Strippers @ Exile 10:30 PM Strippers @ Havana

10:00 AM S.P.A.C.E @ Ramada Plaza Hotel 11:00 AM Broadway Brunch @ Level 11:00 AM Brunch & Showtunes @ U 7:00 PM Karaoke 8:00 PM Latin Dance Night @ Wall St 10:00 PM Strippers @ Exile 10:30 PM Strippers @ Havana

3:00 AM Daylight Savings 11:00 AM Brunch & Showtunes @ U 11:00 AM Broadway Brunch @ Level 2:00 PM Pleasure Guild - "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" @ The Palace Theatre 7:00 PM Karaoke 8:00 PM Latin Dance Night @ Wall St 10:00 PM Strippers @ Exile 10:30 PM Strippers @ Havana

Daylight Savings Time Begins

11:00 AM Broadway Brunch @ Level 11:00 AM Brunch & Showtunes @ U 1:00 PM A Midsummer Night's Dream @ The Lincoln Theatre 7:00 PM Karaoke 8:00 PM Latin Dance Night @ Wall St 10:00 PM Strippers @ Exile 10:30 PM Strippers @ Havana

Arnold Expo @ Th…ter & Vets Memorial

27 11:00 AM Brunch & Showtunes @ U 11:00 AM Broadway Brunch @ Level 7:00 PM Karaoke 8:00 PM Sunday Night Players @ Wall St 10:00 PM Strippers @ Exile 10:30 PM Strippers @ Havana

Sunday

Bars-Clubs

Networking

Special Events

US Holidays

Monday 28

9:00 AM 30yr Ride: Honda's OhioMade Motorcycles … Karaoke 12:00 PM Dollar Days @ Flex 1:00 PM Happy Hour @ Tremont 4:00 PM Bitchy Mondays @ Club D 5:00 PM Happy Hour @ Blazers 8:00 PM Martini Monday @ Havana 8:00 PM Karaoke Monday @ U 9:00 PM Service Industry Night @ Level 10:00 PM Karaoke @ AWOL

… Karaoke 12:00 PM Dollar Days @ Flex 1:00 PM Happy Hour @ Tremont 1:00 PM Free HIV Testing @ Stonewall 4:00 PM Bitchy Mondays @ Club D 5:00 PM Happy Hour @ Blazers 8:00 PM Martini Monday @ Havana 8:00 PM Karaoke Monday @ U 9:00 PM Service Industry Night @ Level 10:00 PM Karaoke @ AWOL

… Karaoke 12:00 PM Dollar Days @ Flex 1:00 PM Happy Hour @ Tremont 4:00 PM Bitchy Mondays @ Club D 5:00 PM Happy Hour @ Blazers 8:00 PM Martini Monday @ Havana 8:00 PM Karaoke Monday @ U 9:00 PM Service Industry Night @ Level 10:00 PM Karaoke @ AWOL

Gene Friley - All A…Dublin Arts Council

… Karaoke 12:00 PM Dollar Days @ Flex 1:00 PM Happy Hour @ Tremont 4:00 PM Bitchy Mondays @ Club D 4:00 PM $2 Bitchy Mondays @ Club Di! versity 5:00 PM Happy Hour @ Blazers 8:00 PM Martini Monday @ Havana 8:00 PM Karaoke Monday @ U 9:00 PM Service Industry Night @ Level 10:00 PM Karaoke @ AWOL

March 2011

30-31 calendar inside_Calendar 2/23/11 4:19 PM Page 1

9:00 AM SRJNG Tuesday Tune Up @ Espresso Yourself Cafe 4:00 PM Technicolor Movie Night @ Club D 4:00 PM Karaoke @ Q 5:00 PM Top Shelf Tuesday @ Havana 5:30 PM Experience Columbus Open House @ Lindey's 8:00 PM Team Trivia Tuesdays @ Level 8:00 PM Cheap Date Night @ Slam! mers 10:00 PM Strippers @ Exile

9:00 AM SRJNG Tuesday Tune Up @ Espresso Yourself Cafe 4:00 PM Karaoke @ Q 4:00 PM Technicolor Movie Night @ Club D 5:00 PM Top Shelf Tuesday @ Havana 6:45 PM WWE SmackDown @ Nation! wide Arena 8:00 PM Team Trivia Tuesdays @ Level 8:00 PM Cheap Date Night @ Slam! mers 10:00 PM Strippers @ Exile

9:00 AM SRJNG Tuesday Tune Up @ Espresso Yourself Cafe 4:00 PM Karaoke @ Q 4:00 PM Technicolor Movie Night @ Club D 5:00 PM Top Shelf Tuesday @ Havana 7:00 PM Men's Discussion Group @ Stonewall 8:00 PM Team Trivia Tuesdays @ Level 8:00 PM Cheap Date Night @ Slam! mers 10:00 PM Strippers @ Exile

9:00 AM BNI Group One-to-Ones @ Panera Bread (Bethel) 9:00 AM SRJNG Tuesday Tune Up @ Espresso Yourself Cafe 11:00 AM The Expy Awards @ Cbus Convention Center 4:00 PM Technicolor Movie Night @ Club D 4:00 PM Karaoke @ Q 5:00 PM Top Shelf Tuesday @ Havana 8:00 PM Team Trivia Tuesdays @ Level 8:00 PM Cheap Date Night @ Slam! 10:00 PM Strippers @ Exile

9:00 AM SRJNG Tuesday Tune Up @ Espresso Yourself Cafe 12:00 PM 2011 Intl. Awards Ceremony @ Cbus Convention Center 4:00 PM Karaoke @ Q 4:00 PM Technicolor Movie Night @ Club D 5:00 PM Top Shelf Tuesday @ Havana 8:00 PM Team Trivia Tuesdays @ Level 8:00 PM Cheap Date Night @ Slam! mers 10:00 PM Strippers @ Exile

Tuesday

12:00 PM CMC Lunch Forums @ Ath! letic Club of Columbus 4:00 PM LevelTini Night @ Level 5:00 PM Prime Timers "Boys Night Out" @ Club D 7:00 PM What the Butler Saw @ Verne Ri#e Center's Studio One Theatre 7:00 PM Fiesta Night @ U 9:30 PM Karaoke Bingo @ Exile 10:00 PM Boy Night @ Wall St

12:00 PM CMC Lunch Forums @ Ath! letic Club of Columbus 4:00 PM LevelTini Night @ Level 4:00 PM Leveltini Night @ Level 5:00 PM Prime Timers "Boys Night Out" @ Club D 7:00 PM Fiesta Night @ U 9:30 PM Karaoke Bingo @ Exile 10:00 PM Boy Night @ Wall St

12:00 PM Ohio's New Budget @ Athlet! ic Club 4:00 PM LevelTini Night @ Level 5:00 PM Prime Timers "Boys Night Out" @ Club D 7:00 PM Fiesta Night @ U 9:30 PM Karaoke Bingo @ Exile 10:00 PM Boy Night @ Wall St

12:00 PM CMC Lunch Forums @ Ath! letic Club of Columbus 4:00 PM LevelTini Night @ Level 5:00 PM Prime Timers "Boys Night Out" @ Club D 6:00 PM Network @ KDB Easton 7:00 PM Fiesta Night @ U 9:30 PM Karaoke Bingo @ Exile 10:00 PM Boy Night @ Wall St

12:00 PM CMC Lunch Forums @ Ath! letic Club of Columbus 4:00 PM LevelTini Night @ Level 5:00 PM Prime Timers "Boys Night Out" @ Club D 5:30 PM Prospective Homebuyer Ses! sions @MORPC O"ce 6:00 PM The Demographic Tsunami @ Atheletic Club 7:00 PM Fiesta Night @ U 9:30 PM Karaoke Bingo @ Exile 10:00 PM Boy Night @ Wall St

Wednesday

Friday

31 4:00 PM Leather & Fetish @ Flex 4:00 PM $3 3 Olives Night @ Level 4:00 PM 3 Wise Men @ Exile 8:00 PM CW & HipHop @ Wall St 8:00 PM Disco Night @ Martini Park 8:00 PM Long Island @ U 9:00 PM Tom Crumley at the Piano @ Club D 10:00 PM Trafik Jam @ Trafik

Double Sexus @ Wexner Center

4:00 PM Leather & Fetish @ Flex 4:00 PM $3 3 Olives Night @ Level 4:00 PM 3 Wise Men @ Exile 5:30 PM Cocktails at the Conservatory @ Franklin Park Conservatory 8:00 PM CW & HipHop @ Wall St 8:00 PM Disco Night @ Martini Park 8:00 PM Long Island @ U 9:00 PM Tom Crumley at the Piano @ Club D 10:00 PM Trafik Jam @ Trafik

11:45 AM Parade 1:00 PM St Patrick's Day Family Re! union @ Veterans Memorial 4:00 PM Leather & Fetish @ Flex 4:00 PM $3 3 Olives Night @ Level 4:00 PM 3 Wise Men @ Exile 8:00 PM CW & HipHop @ Wall St 8:00 PM Disco Night @ Martini Park 8:00 PM Long Island @ U 9:00 PM Tom Crumley at the Piano @ 10:00 PM Trafik Jam @ Trafik

St. Patrick's Day

4:00 PM Leather & Fetish @ Flex 4:00 PM $3 3 Olives Night @ Level 4:00 PM 3 Wise Men @ Exile 7:30 PM The Naked Truth @ The Shad! owbox 8:00 PM CW & HipHop @ Wall St 8:00 PM Disco Night @ Martini Park 8:00 PM Long Island @ U 9:00 PM Tom Crumley at the Piano @ Club D 10:00 PM Trafik Jam @ Trafik 10:00 PM Drag Special @ Level

4:00 PM Leather & Fetish @ Flex 4:00 PM $3 3 Olives Night @ Level 4:00 PM 3 Wise Men @ Exile 8:00 PM CW & HipHop @ Wall St 8:00 PM Disco Night @ Martini Park 8:00 PM Long Island @ U 8:00 PM The Curious Savage @ Mc! Connell Arts Center 9:00 PM Tom Crumley at the Piano @ Club D 10:00 PM Trafik Jam @ Trafik

4:00 PM Get Your Mojo @ Level 7:00 PM First Friday @ Wall St 8:00 PM Flirtinis @ U 9:00 PM Live Bands @ Havana 9:30 PM Live Music @ Club D 10:00 PM DJ Fierce Tease @ Axis 10:00 PM Traxx: Columbus @ Out! lands 10:00 PM College Nite @ Wall St

April Fool's Day

4:00 PM Get Your Mojo @ Level 8:00 PM NINA's Playhouse @ Axis 8:00 PM Flirtinis @ U 9:00 PM Live Bands @ Havana 9:30 PM Live Music @ Club D 10:00 PM College Nite @ Wall St 10:00 PM Traxx: Columbus @ Out! lands

4:00 PM Get Your Mojo @ Level 7:30 PM 4th Annual Flex Series @ Club D 8:00 PM Flirtinis @ U 9:00 PM Live Bands @ Havana 9:30 PM Live Music @ Club D 10:00 PM DJ Fierce Tease @ Axis 10:00 PM Traxx: Columbus @ Out! lands 10:00 PM College Nite @ Wall St 10:30 PM 3 in 30: Shadows @ MadLab

4:00 PM Get Your Mojo @ Level 7:00 PM Pride Night with the Blue Jack! ets @ Nationwide Arena 8:00 PM Flirtinis @ U 9:00 PM Live Bands @ Havana 9:30 PM Live Music @ Club D 10:00 PM College Nite @ Wall St 10:00 PM Traxx: Columbus @ Out! lands

4:00 PM Get Your Mojo @ Level 6:00 PM Jennifer Finney Boylan @ Wright State 7:00 PM First Friday @ Wall St 8:00 PM Flirtinis @ U 9:00 PM Live Bands @ Havana 9:30 PM Live Music @ Club D 10:00 PM Traxx: Columbus @ Out! lands 10:00 PM DJ Fierce Tease @ Axis 10:00 PM College Nite @ Wall St

Arnold Expo @ The Cbus Convention Center & Vets Memorial

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8:00 PM Margaritas @ U 8:30 PM Best Ass Contest @ Exile 9:30 PM Live Music @ Club D 10:00 PM DJ Jeremy James @ Level 10:00 PM Dance Your Ass O# @ Axis 10:00 PM Lesbian Dance Night @ Wall St

6:00 PM Guess Who's Coming to Din! ner @ The Lincoln Theatre 7:00 PM Secret Cinema @ Wexner Cen! ter 8:00 PM Margaritas @ U 9:30 PM Live Music @ Club D 10:00 PM Lesbian Dance Night @ Wall St 10:00 PM DJ Jeremy James @ Level 10:00 PM Dance Your Ass O# @ Axis

10:00 AM Blooms & Butterflies @ Franklin Park Conservatory 8:00 PM Margaritas @ U 9:30 PM Live Music @ Club D 10:00 PM DJ Jeremy James @ Level 10:00 PM Dance Your Ass O# @ Axis 10:00 PM Lesbian Dance Night @ Wall St

5:00 PM Ohio Roller Girls @ Ohio Expo Center 7:30 PM Whacked at the Winery @ Wyandotte Winery 8:00 PM Margaritas @ U 9:30 PM Live Music @ Club D 10:00 PM Lesbian Dance Night @ Wall St 10:00 PM DJ Jeremy James @ Level 10:00 PM Dance Your Ass O# @ Axis

10:00 AM Stand Together to Make it 1:00 PM Take a Bit Out Of Crime @ 7:00 PM Dead of Winter Bash @ Wild 8:00 PM Margaritas @ U 8:30 PM Best Ass Contest @ Exile 9:00 PM Out of Hibernation @ Exile 9:00 PM Guilty Pleasure @ Wall St 9:30 PM Live Music @ Club D 10:00 PM DJ Jeremy James @ Level 10:00 PM Dance Your Ass O# @ Axis 10:00 PM Lesbian Dance Night @ Wall

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Daylight Savings Time Begins

Arnold Expo @ Th…ter & Vets Memorial

27 11:00 AM Brunch & Showtunes @ U 11:00 AM Broadway Brunch @ Level 7:00 PM Karaoke 8:00 PM Sunday Night Players @ Wall St 10:00 PM Strippers @ Exile 10:30 PM Strippers @ Havana

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Gene Friley - All A…Dublin Arts Council

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TUESDAY, MARCH 8 ...AND MOM, AND DAD, AND FIDO...

www.ethiopianorphanrelief.com: The Expy Awards @ Greater ColumTUESDAY, MARCH 1 Come as your favorite dead famous bus Convention Center, 400 N High I’D LIKE TO THANK THE ACADEMY… person (or dead scourge of the sea) St, 614.827.2500, www.columbus2011 International Awards Ceremony @ Greater Columbus Conven- and really celebrate the seasonal… I conventions.com: Honor the Experigot nothing. Just go as a dead person ence Columbus Expy Award recipients tion Center, 400 N High St, and rock out. Proceeds go to — organizations that have gener614.827.2500, www.columbusconventions.com: The Columbus Council Ethiopian Orphan Relief, a non-profit ated a more vibrant and distinct experience for visitors and residents of on World Affairs hosts this glamorous benefitting orphaned children in Greater Columbus, including Jack event recognizing outstanding contri- Ethiopia. 7p – 10p; $50. Hanna’s “Into the Wild”, McDonald’s butions to global education and unWHAT ABOUT THOSE OF US WHO LIKE BEING All American High School Basketball derstanding. This year, they honor Games, North American Gay Amateur Limited Brands as well as the InterPUNISHED? national Educator of the Year. 12p; Guilty Pleasure @ Wall Street Night Athletic Association’s Gay Softball $25 (mem), $50 (non). Club, 144 N Wall St, www.wallstreet- World Series, and the Wex21 Camnightclub.com: A drag and burlesque paign Coming of Age. 11a - 1:15p; WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2 show starring the good, the bad, and $90 (non-member). I THOUGHT TSUNAMIS WIPED THINGS OUT? the innocent until proven guilty. Also, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9 The Demographic Tsunami @ Athprobably a good share of crimes letic Club of Columbus, 136 E Broad against fashion. Perpetrators include WIRE COAT HANGERS: THE ORIGINAL CONDOM St, www.columbusmetroclub.org: Taylor Mayde, Sexy Rexy, The Royal Network Columbus @ KDB Easton, Kathryn Lawler speaks on creating Renegades, Viva! Valezz and the Vel- 165 Easton Town Center, www.kdlife-long communities to accommovet Hearts, More Love Productions, beaston.com: Join the members of date a changing demographic. Of all Sex Kitten Purr-lesque, Cleveland Network Columbus, central Ohio’s the people in human history to have Kings and Girls. Special video cameo progressive GLBT networking group, live to age 65, 50% of them are alive by Noka Davers. All proceeds go to for a special networking event and today. 12p; $18 - 28. benefit a shelter for homeless LGBT celebration of JOAN CRAWFORD’S youth. 9p; $7. 103rd (or maybe 106th, but probably HOMEOWNERSHIP: THE FINAL FRONTIER her 107th) BIRTHDAY. Not, perhaps, Prospective Homebuyer Sessions I JUST WANT TO DANCE! coincidentally, it’s also the 107th an@ MORPC Office, 111 Liberty St, Stand Together To Make It Better @ niversary of the invention of the wire Suite 100, www.comehomeco.org: Wexner Center for the Arts, 1871 N. coat hanger. No joke. 6p; free. Learn about budgets, mortgages, High St, 614.292.3535, wexarts.org: credit, and inspections at these An informative conversation about THURSDAY, MARCH 10 homeownership classes. And meet the dynamics of bullying, and how MY FAVORITE KIND OF TRUTH other sexy singles with family in two artists – Dante Brown (dance) The Naked Truth @ Shadowbox, Easmind. Okay, maybe that’s pushing it. and Liv Gjestvang (video) – raise ton Towne Center, 614.416.7625, More sessions on March 9 and 16. awareness through their art. The two www.shadowboxlive.org: Sure, it 5:30p; free. will respond to recent trends in started in January, ends in March, LGBTQ bullying. 10a – 4p; free (to and plays every weekend. We just THURSDAY, MARCH 3 teachers). thought we’d sneak it into the middle LIKE DAN SAVAGE, BUT WITH MORE INTRIGUE of your month. 7:30p (additional The Curious Savage @ McConnell TAKE A BITE OUT OF CRIME 10:30p showtimes on Fridays and Arts Center, 777 Evening Street, Columbus Police Recruiting Session Saturdays); $30. www.mcconnellarts.org: Worthington @ Stonewall Columbus Community Community Theatre presents a com- Center, 1160 N High St, 614.299. FRIDAY, MARCH 11 edy about a widowed stage actress 7764, www.stonewallcolumbus.org: HOCKEY IS SOOO GAY who is ostracized by her children, and An information and application ses- Pride Night with the Blue Jackets @ subsequently committed to a psychi- sion for joining the Columbus Police. Nationwide Arena, 200 W Nationwide atric institution. The catch? She is the No, donuts are not provided. 1p; free. Blvd, www.stonewallcolumbus.org: only one who knows where the famNothin’ like a little stick action. Show ily’s fortune of ten million dollars is CALLING ALL BEARS! your pride and stay after the Blue hidden. Runs through March 6. 8p The 2nd Annual Out Of Hibernation Jackets game to catch Gay Hockey (2p on March 6); $12 (adults), $10 Bear Party @ Exile, 893 N 4th St, Ohio’s Mayhem defeat the Chicago (students and seniors). 614.299.0069, www.exilebar.com: Black Wolves. Everyone in attendance Featuring Bear Magazine Model Dru will even receive a Rick Nash bobbleHE’S GOING TO PUMP YOU UP Bruin, 3 different contests Best Ass, head and a Blue Jackets Hat! Make Arnold Professional Boxing Champi- Best Chest/Hairy Chest, Best Bulge, sure to get your tickets through onships @ Greater Columbus Conand Jello shots. 9p; free. Stonewall - a portion of ticket sales vention Center, Hall C, 400 N High St, will go back to them and Gay Hockey 614.827.2500, www.arnoldsportsfes- SUNDAY, MARCH 6 Ohio! 7p; $35. tival.com: Come watch some really SHAKESPEARE, IN LESS TIME THAN AN jacked folks beat on each other to in- EPISODE OF ‘LOST’ SATURDAY, MARCH 12 A Midsummer Night’s Dream @ The I’LL TAKE MY SCHADENFREUDE ON WHEELS, spire the rest of your flabby time at Lincoln Theatre, 769 E Long St, THANK YOU. this fitness expo. 7p; $10 - $25. www.capa.com: OSU and The Royal Ohio Roller Girls v. NEO Roller Derby Shakespeare Company (RSC - yes, @ Ohio Expo Center, 717 E. 17th Ave, FRIDAY, MARCH 4 the RSC) present a 60-minute version 614.477.7243, FROM JAMES TO JENNY Jennifer Finney Boylan @ Wright of the classic comedy. It’s educawww.ohiorollergirls.com: It’s the SeaState University, 3640 Colonel Glenn tional, it’s famous, and it’s short. 1p son Opener for Roller Derby, and I’m Highway, Dayton, 937.775.3333, and 3p; $12. scared to think what kinda bitches www.wright.edu: Transgender author are made in Akron(NEO). 5p, $15. Jennifer Finney Boylan will be at MONDAY, MARCH 7 Wright State as the Scholar-in-Resi- OH, RICK WHERE’S JIMMY? HE’S BEEN WHACKED! dence for Women’s History Month! $2 Bitchy Mondays @ Club Diversity, HE’LL BE RIGHT BACK... Check her out March 3 and 4 as she 863 S High St, 614.224.4050, Whacked at the Winery, Murder discusses her book, “She’ Not There: www.clubdiversity.com: It’s almost Mystery Dinner @ Wyandotte Winery, A Life in Two Genders.” Times vary. spring. The seasons are changing. 4640 Wyandotte Dr, 614.476.3624, Your sinuses are killing you. Alcohol is www.wyandottewinery.com: Dinner the cure. $2 well drinks all night. 4p; provided by Carfagna’s, a bottle of free. the Wine per couple, and entertainment lead by the Sleuth Mystery Players. 7:30-10p, $60. SATURDAY, MARCH 5 FOR THOSE OF US WHO CAN’T LAST UNTIL HALFWAY-TO-HALLOWEEN Dead of Winter Bash @ Wild Goose Creative, 2491 Summit St,

FAMILY REUNION Parade and St. Patrick’s Day Family Renunion @ Veterans Memorial, 614.491.4449, 300 W Broad St, www.shamrockclubofcolumbus.com: The last leprechaun has Paraded by and you’re still pissing green, give your Irish belly a hearty traditional meal. After the Parade. $7–12.

FRIDAY, MARCH 18 I LIKE MY THEATRE LIKE I LIKE MY MEN: FLEXIBLE 4th Annual Flex Series @ Club Diversity, 863 S High St, 614.224.4050, www.rtheatre.org: Entitled Elephant in the Room, this year’s series of short plays is sure to delight (and maybe arouse). Come see the hottest new acts in town. And, if you’re short on time, just see half of the show! That’s the joy of Flex. Runs through April 2. 7:30p; $15 (whole show), $10 (either half). THEATER PEOPLE DO IT FOR 30 MINUTES IN 3 SCENARIOS

3 in 30: Shadows @ MadLab, 227 N 3rd St, 614.221.5418, www.madlab.net: Madlab’s monthly presentation of short works, to follow the evening’s performance of A Shadow In The Dark. 10:30p; $5. SATURDAY, MARCH 19 PISTILS AND PUPAE Blooms & Butterflies @ Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E Broad St, 614.645.8733, www.fpconservatory.org: Experience the emergence of exotic butterflies and watch their release into the Franklin Park Conservatory’s Pacific Island Water Garden. Dozens of species from around the world, and hands-on activities are featured. Daily starting at 10a through Aug 14. $11 adults, $9 seniors and students, $6 kids. SUNDAY, MARCH 20 BEWARE: GAY GEEKS BE HERE S.P.A.C.E. @ Ramada Plaza Hotel & Conference Center, 4900 Sinclair Rd, www.backporchcomics.com/space: Small press? Comics?! Experience Ohio’s most underrated artistic event: the Small Press And Comics Expo. Plus, you can meet a few of the local artists from around town (and those other parts of Ohio we don’t speak of). 10a – 6p (Saturday), 11a – 5p (Sunday); $8 (weekend), $5 (day pass).

THURSDAY, MARCH 24 WHAT’S THAT, COCKTAIL? YOU NEED TO BE INSIDE OF ME? Cocktails at the Conservatory @ Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E Broad St, 614.645.8733, www.fpconservatory.org: Chihuly. Booze. Together, we reach an understanding of both. Too zen for you? Then just drink your hooch and kiss a stranger. 5:30p – 10p; $11 admission (gets you $10

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23 IT’S CALLED A LEVELTINI BECAUSE BY THE END OF THE NIGHT, YOU’RE ON THE GROUND LevelTini Night @ Level Dining Lounge, 700 N High St, 614.754.1342, www.levelcolumbus.com: $5 Apples & Oranges, $5 Cosmopolitan, $5 Raspberry Bellinitini and $5 White Vineyard. Starts at 4p; NO COVER.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 16 MONDAY, MARCH 21 YOU MEAN… WE HAVE ONE? THE ONLY TEST YOU WANT TO TAKE Ohio’s New Budget @ Athletic Club HIV Testing @ Stonewall Columbus of Columbus, 136 E Broad St, Community Center, 1160 N High St, www.columbusmetroclub.org: John 614.299.7764 www.stonewallcolumBegala and Allen Proctor speak on bus.org: It’s free. It helps you stay the budget and how it may or may that way, too. Free condoms, ‘nuff not be good for Ohio. Maybe it’s neu- said. 1p; free. tral. We can only have the highest of hopes. 12p; $18 – 28. TUESDAY, MARCH 22 MUSCLEMEN IN TIGHTS THURSDAY, MARCH 17 WWE SmackDown @ Nationwide DID I MENTION THAT MY PENIS IS IRISH? Arena, 200 W Nationwide Blvd, St. Patrick’s Day @ Every Bar (espe- 800.745.3000, www.nationcially the Irish ones): Outlook starts at widearena.com: Where else can you 5:30a. That’s right. All day; The price watch hot men flex, show off, yell, of a Guinness. and generally express their hostility, machismo, and mating calls while wearing little more than tights? Ok, Chris Hayes’ apartment excluded. No where. So go see them at Nationwide. 6:45p, $17-62.

TUESDAY, MARCH 15 LET’S TALK ABOUT SEX, BABY. OR HOMOPHOBIA IN THE WORKPLACE, BABY. Men’s Discussion Group @ Stonewall Columbus Community Center, 1160 N High St, 614.299.7764, www.stonewallcolumbus.org: Want to meet new people? Want to discuss topics pertinent to being a gay man? Well, then have we got the discussion group for you. 7p; free.

MONDAY, MARCH 14 UP AND EVENATOM Gene Friley: All About Evenatom @ Dublin Arts Council, 7125 Riverside Dr, Dublin, 614.889.7444, www.dublinarts.org: Friley has a BFA and MFA, an engineering degree in ceramics, served as a WWII bombardier on a B29, and this exhibit showcases his innovative uses of ceramic materials, figurative forms, and playful designs exploring themes as diverse, yet intertwined and compelling, as black holes and Einstein’s formulae. Through Apr 22.

SUNDAY, MARCH 13 SPRING... BACK? AHEAD? WHAT? Daylight Savings Time @ everywhere: It’s that time again. Literally. Only this time, you’re gonna be one cranky homo. Set those clocks forward one hour. You’re gonna hate yourself in the morning. 2a.

THURSDAY, MARCH 31 THIS TURNS ME ON… IN AN UNCOMFORTABLE WAY Double Sexus @ Wexner Center for the Arts, 1871 N High St, 614.292.3535, www.wexarts.org: Hans Bellmer and Louise Bourgeois. Two of the more uncomfortably erotic artists of our time. Is it a penis? Or a mutant from a 90’s cartoon show? The world may never know. Runs through July 31. $5.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30 HINT: SCANDAL What The Butler Saw @ Verne Riffe Center’s Studio One Theatre, 77 S High St, 614.469.1045, www.capa.com: Farce or tragedy? Sounds like Lindsay Lohan might be involved. All the makings of a good comedy, and then someone set it in a psychiatric ward. Runs through April 17. 11a (Wed), 8p (Thu-Sat), 2p (Sun); $11 – $39.50.

TUESDAY, MARCH 29 DELICIOUS AND INFORMATIVE Experience Columbus Open House @ Lindey’s, 169 Beck St, www.lindeys.com: Cash bar and networking! A match made in heaven. Join the staff of Experience Columbus for informative tables on marketing, events, conventions, the sports commission, and more. 5:30p – 7:30p; free (mem), $10 (non).

MONDAY, MARCH 28 GET YOUR MOTOR RUNNING 30-Year Ride: Honda’s Ohio-Made Motorcycles @ 13515 Yarmouth Dr., Pickerington, 43147, 614.856.2222 www.motorcyclemuseum.org: 30-Year Ride: Honda’s Ohio-Made Motorcycles showcases 30 years of significant Honda motorcycles manufactured in Marysville, Ohio. 9a-5p; $3-$10.

SUNDAY, MARCH 27 COLD HANDS? Rent @ Shadowbox Live, 164 Easton Town Center, 614.416.7625, www.shadowboxlive.org: Check out every homo’s favorite Broadway show right here in town! Mar 6 - Apr 17 (every Sun), 2:30p & 7p, $20-$30.

SATURDAY, MARCH 26 I TOLD YOU, NO THREESOMES Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner? @ The Lincoln Theatre, 769 E Long St, www.bravo-ohio.org: The international (ok, maybe city-wide) night of mystery. Begin at The Historic Lincoln Theatre for a cocktail reception, and then flit off into the night to a destination unknown for a dinner with strangers! All the makings of a great murder mystery. Oops, I hope no sociopaths read this. 6p; $125 (dinner and reception), $40 (reception only).

FRIDAY, MARCH 25 10 YEARS. THAT’S TIN, RIGHT? NINA’S Playhouse @ Axis, 775 N High St, 614.291.4008, www.columbusnightlife.com: Celebrate Nina’s 10th. Ten years of Nina in drag... that’s a record or something, right? March 25 - 27; Details TBA.

in drink tokens).

• • • • • • • • • • • about town • • • • • • • • • • •

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Obama Lurches to the Reagan Right by Peter Ryskewecz It is certainly interesting to watch Barack Obama’s rightward lurch to the center these days compared to his 2008 “Change We Can Believe In” campaign.

ration, Wall Street agenda, including reductions in the corporate tax rate, regulations and entitlements. He articulated so many ideas (conspicuously lifted from the GOP platform and right-wing think tanks) that he sounded like an echo of Newt Gingrich. No surprise, Obama’s new theme for the next two years and his re-election is “Winning the Future,” the exact title of the former Republican Speaker’s book.

As a candidate, he provided us with soaring rhetoric and blistering critiques of the Bush tax cuts and the Global War on Terror. According to exit polls, 65-70 percent of Gays voted for the man, although roughly one-in-three Gays chose the lackluster John McCain. This follows last month’s decision by the “Change” President to extend all the Bush tax cuts for two years, only to Obama promised to end the Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, have them expire in time for his re-election campaign. How close down the Guantanamo Bay Prison and terminate the timely! Will he then again use the issue to disingenuously Patriot Act. Our liberal progressive community cheered rally his liberal base and the GLBT community once again? wildly. After all, hasn’t he turned his Oval Office over to corporate He also took on Wall Street as greedy and corrupt, despite America’s Fortune 500 CEOs right in front of our eyes? His taking three times more Wall Street campaign money than new Chief of Staff will be Bill Dailey of ATT and the former John McCain. And he certainly assured us, relentlessly, that Clinton Commerce Secretary. Remember when the Clinton anybody making more than $250,000 a year would have Administration hijacked the Gingrich Agenda and did more their taxes raised. to complete Ronald Reagan’s agenda of Free Trade Acts, balanced budgets, lower capital gains taxes and not He promised huge and monumental changes. launching any new spending programs? Clinton was more of a Republican than his predecessor, George H. W. Bush. What a difference two years makes! He squandered his super majority in both congressional chambers and in two Obama’s new Chair of the White House Council of Economic years spent more money than Bush did for the entire Iraq Advisors is the CEO from Goldman Sachs, and the new Chair War. of the White House Job Creation Council is from General Electric. Meanwhile, he promises to sign at least three GOP In a televised Chamber of Commerce speech last month, Boy Free Trade Acts with South Korea, Panama, and Columbia to Obama abandons and rebukes the American Left. He roallow US corporations to invest in cheaper overseas labor bustly endorses American capitalism and a GOP pro-corpo- with more to be signed in the Asian region. outlookcolumbus.com

Reananomics is like calculus but without the logic.

As far as Iraq and Afghanistan go, Obama is running those wars on Bush’s terms and Bush’s timetables. No change there, just a continuation of Bush’s time-lines for withdrawal. He even calls Army Private Bradley Manning, who helped Wikileaks expose alleged US atrocities, “a danger to America”. Guantanamo Bay Prison will never be closed, and even Dick Cheney expressed approval of Obama’s deference to existing Bush policies. Soon the Patriot Act will be renewed with only pretentious cosmetic changes. None of this is insignificant. After all, Obama’s Press Secretary told us that Obama read a Reagan biography during the Christmas holidays, just before he made the deal to extend the Bush tax cuts. And he hired Reagan’s last Chief of Staff, Ken Duberstien, as a liaison to the new Republican House. And don’t think it is NOT calculated to have TIME Magazine run a front cover issue of Obama and Reagan arm-in-arm — nearly kissing. Is this what the gay community was anticipating? This is not the change the Obama majority in the GLBT community voted for. The Obama transformation makes it look like the 2008 candidate was dressed in political drag, mouthing speeches that titillated his chanting, adoring audiences; only to go back stage, disrobe, and come out on FOX News before the largest-ever Super Bowl audience and say that he has always lowered taxes - and thinks that Bill O’Reilly and his crew are good for America. Peter Ryskewecz is a retired Michigan schoolteacher.

mar 2011

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Change We Cannot Believe In by Ian James

crescent-news.com

mar 2011

We faced the question of Organization Capability during the Ohio’s GOP racked up incredible March 2004 Democratic Primary victories in Ohio, recapturing all after an incumbent Democratic statewide executive offices in the House member supported Ohio’s House and expanding their major- Defense of Marriage Act. At that ity in the Senate. Never in my time, only a handful of LGBT nearly thirty years of grassroots Ohioans assembled quickly to deand political organizing have I velop measures to educate voters, seen the GOP make such strides. and fully fund our plan. We took a After the election, I was cautiously stand, we advertised his record optimistic about Ohio’s new lead- and he, consequently, lost his ers saying: “We’re going to get House seat. The question rethings done for Ohio.” I began a mains: Can we do that again? substantial accounting of what this meant to me as a married Coalition Fortification gay man, what it meant to our We need an accurate list of organcommunity and what actions we izations that have stood with must all consider as we move for- LGBT Ohioans over time, as well ward. as an accounting of our collective interests. I know one of many That optimism washed away groups that have long stood with quickly when the new governor our community for many years: claimed public employees (teach- The Ohio AFL-CIO. ers, police, fire fighters, paramedics and nurses) are draining In 2004, we faced the hateful our state budget and causing Anti-Gay Marriage Ban (Issue 1). Ohio to fail. So outlandish was the At that time, we needed estabclaim that pro-business Clevelishment groups for assistance. land Crain’s Business News The Ohio AFL-CIO stood with us called Kasich “a bull in a china shoulder-to-shoulder with unwashop.” He seeks to place a thumb vering support. More than six on the scale of justice and give years have gone by and they conemployers (the government) total tinue to stand with us. Today, they authority over workers. The unspo- need our help defending the right ken rationale is simple, toppling to Collective Bargaining. Organized Labor will virtually allow the Right almost free reign If you think Collective Bargaining to do as it pleases. Given the has no impact on you or our comRight’s penchant to use the LGBT munity, then think again. community as a whipping post, we must prepare for the fight that Collective Bargaining is critical to undoubtedly lies ahead. protecting people in the workplace. It protects people (teachOrganizational Capability ers, police, fire fighters, Never before has a promise of paramedics and nurses) from equality been so near and simul- threats of intimidation and unitaneously so far away. But let’s lateral firings. Collective Bargainface it, the LGBT community is ing requires that workers and often not thought of as an organ- employers work together to reach ized group. Instead we were con- agreements so that both sides are sidered a cash cow for efforts. I vested in the outcome. Without it, will grant you that we can raise a public employees can be fired for lot of money, but more often than virtually any reason. Without Colnot, LGBT money comes from a lective Bargaining protections, a small minority of LGBT people. School Board could fire suspected There is a sizeable majority who gay/lesbian teachers without may not possess excess money, cause or hesitation. Without Colbut has things of more value: lective Bargaining, employees’ time, energy, willingness to help rights vaporize. If you think it’s and voting power. easy to get rid of gay workers now, just wait until Collective BargainKnowing that we have vast ing is gone. human resources, I ask myself, “If we face a genuine threat to our Rallying Points community in Ohio, what meas- Let’s boil things down: Why are ures and resources do we possess people permitted to discriminate that can be put into motion to against the LGBT community? urge support of an issue or defeat What makes us unequal to our of another statewide threat?” For straight counterparts in hiring, me, the ultimate question beaccommodations, hospital visitacomes, “How would we effectively tions and adoption? Why are we mobilize our community?” forbidden to enjoy the rights our But doesn’t he look like a union worker?

straight brothers and sister enjoy? We can spend years whittling away at a variety of regulations and take small (but significant) steps toward equality, or we can be honest with ourselves and acknowledge that the greatest obstacle to equality is rooted in Ohio’s Constitution. There we find the phrase forbidding recognition of any relationship that “intends to approximate the design, qualities, significance or effect of marriage.” Therefore, the greatest step forward, yet the most challenging, would be to amend the Ohio Constitution with respect to that phrase. Historically, simplified Amendments are best which is why I have two versions: 1.“Marriage in Ohio shall be union of two consenting adults and no religious institution shall be required to perform the rites of marriage.” Or, if you believe changes to the right to marry are not at this time or in the near future a possibility, 2. “Marriage in Ohio shall remain a union of one man and one woman. The right of Civil Union shall be permitted between two consenting adults and will entitle the couple to all of the state-level spousal rights and responsibilities.” No matter what we do, we must remember that every movement is a message. What is our message? With the change in Ohio, comes the reality that there is no “status quo” because every election brings change. As a community, we occasionally become satisfied with what we consider the status quo not because it’s easier, but often because the struggle tires us. But be forewarned that complacency is a harbinger of future woes unless we gain focus to organize, fortify and build coalitions as well as develop concise messages. Winning freedoms takes hard work and time. It is never easy or quick. If we choose to do nothing, the evolving status quo may lead to more oppressive restrictions. In that case, we will deservedly get change we cannot believe in. Ian James is a grassroots and political organizer. He and his husband Stephen Letourneau own and operate The Strategy Network and Professional Petition Management in Columbus Ohio. Their companies have developed the state’s largest political campaigns and they have overseen the collection of more than 3 million signatures to place a variety of issues on Ohio’s ballots.

outlookcolumbus.com

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outlookcolumbus.com

You should have seen that guy before Walker derm. His face looked like the moon!

mar 2011

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The New Man About Town Meet Equality Ohio’s New Executive Director, Ed Mullen by Chris Hayes Fueled by the passage of Ohio’s constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage, nearly 60 individuals from across Ohio and the nation came together on April 22 - 23, 2005 and co-created vision and mission statements that would best serve Ohio’s LGBT community well into the future. That meeting was the impetus that created Equality Ohio, our statewide organization fighting for LGBT rights. Just as the State saw a shift in power politically, so has Equality Ohio managerially. Last month EO announced the hiring of their new Executive Director Ed Mullen, and attorney, activist and state candidate from Illinois. Many of you got to know Lynn Bowman, the organization’s first Executive Director over her fiveyear tenure, and probably far fewer of you got to know Bowman’s predecessor Sue Doerfer who commanded the ship last year. We at outlook wanted to make sure you got to know EO’s new ED ASAP and sat down to lunch with Ed to find out more about him, his vision for EO and how we can work with the new powers to be at the Statehouse. Chris Hayes: Tell us a little about yourself, where your from, past jobs, experience, age, husband, family etc, basic bio stuff. Ed Mullen: I grew up in Albany, NY, moved to Philadelphia for college (Penn), DC for law school (George Washington) and then lived in San Francisco and Chicago (had been getting warmer with every move before Chicago). I am 43, and the gray hair started coming in way too quickly about a year ago. Currently single and “in between dances” as the song goes, and I have two awesome dogs - Roscoe (boxer) and Dakota (Golden mix). Two fun nephews and an adorable niece still in Albany.

porters and coalition partners of Equality Ohio have also been very excited about the opportunities the future holds. CH: What is your philosophy for leading Equality Ohio? How is it different from philosophies of the past? EM: Equality Ohio should be an active and visible leader in the struggle for full equality and inclusion for LGBT people throughout Ohio. For Equality Ohio to succeed we must engage our community and allies throughout the state, broaden our outreach to racial and ethnic minorities, youth, seniors and the transgender community, and be aggressive and strategic politically. I am committed to an Equality Ohio that maximizes the LGBT community as a political and social force in Ohio. CH: Where do you see the organization right now? Where does it need to go? EM: Equality Ohio is a young organization that has built a strong base of support, from staff and Board to funders to volunteers, and accomplished a lot in its short tenure. We need to build on that base to make Equality Ohio a stronger organization that has the power to lead in challenging times. Equality Ohio needs to do outreach throughout the LGBT community to make sure that our community knows what we are doing and how they can be engaged. We also need to do outreach among allies to educate them about the challenges and discrimination we face and how they can be part of the solution. And, we need to educate those who are not currently pro-equality and change hearts and minds.

CH: What does the organization need in order to excel? EM: First and foremost, Equality Ohio needs the resources to achieve our strategic goals for the My most recent job was Managing Attorney at Ac- community. Anti-equality forces are extremely cess Living where I litigated civil rights cases on well funded, and we have done surprisingly well behalf of people with disabilities and engaged in for so many years with limited resources. But if public advocacy and education on disability we are to truly harness the potential power of our rights issues. Previously, I was a partner at a community, we need the financial support of our large law firm, litigating complex commercial community and allies - whether it is at the $35 lawsuits (lawyer-speak for representing big com- annual membership or major donor level. One of panies in big dollar litigation). At the law firm, I the first questions legislators ask is “how many chaired the firm-wide pro bono program, and dues-paying members do you have?” Our oppoover the years litigated several gay rights cases. nents are continually adding members, and we need to match them person for person. I have been politically active for many years, and I ran for State Representative in Illinois and have Second, Equality Ohio needs the community and worked on the campaigns of many openly gay our allies to be fully engaged. We need to make candidates. In Chicago, I was chair of a political sure that we are informed and educated voters, action committee called Northside Democracy for we are active volunteers, and we talk openly to America, which was committed to electing soour straight friends and family throughout Ohio cially progressive, fiscally responsible and ethi- about our lives and the social and legal discrimically committed candidates to office at all levels. nation we face. CH: How are you finding Columbus so far? EM: Columbus is an incredibly welcoming city. Everyone I talk to is very informative and willing to help me acclimate. The folks at Equality Ohio staff and Board - are clearly very committed to my success and the success of the organization, and that has helped ease the transition. The sup-

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A few days before this picture was taken it was 67 degrees. What’s that thing about global warming?

Finally, Equality Ohio needs to be strategic and courageous. For many years, getting a seat at the table was a good measure of forward progress. We now have a seat at the proverbial table, and it is time for us to push the envelope and challenge our friends as much as we challenge those that oppose us. continued on page 39 outlookcolumbus.com

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A Muse Gallery is Reborn! INTRODUCING:

Join us at our new location in March: 188 Whittier Street (In German Village)

Also announcing our new sister company at 190 WHITTIER STREET Specializing in high-end Art Brokerage, Art Leasing, and Resale. Representing clients and serious collectors. Muse Gallery / Hali Robinson, 614.565.8813 188 Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43206

Circle Galleries / Caren Petersen, 614.565.0314 190 Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43206

www.AMuseGallery.com

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Oh how amusing, A Muse Gallery is now in German Village. Ha, Ha, Ho!

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Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not a real ginger!

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vote against a pro-equality bill when you are voting personally “Justice delayed is justice denied” against the rights of one of your is a frequently invoked phrase, colleagues. and it is true for every parent in a same sex relationship who cannot CH: This edition focuses on how adopt the child he or she is rais- with the new Republican heavy ing, for every person whose part- government, a party not known ner dies leaving him or her with to be supportive of gay issues, no property rights in the home we can work together to they shared, and for every person achieve equality. How do you who is fired or denied housing be- think we can tap into the Repubcause of their sexual orientation licans to achieve our goals? or gender identity. Our secondEM: Equality is not, or shouldn’t class status hurts these people be, a partisan issue. Very few proevery day, and so I don’t believe equality bills have been passed that waiting patiently for equal throughout the country without rights is acceptable. some bipartisan support. One of the most moving speeches in CH: Looking at the Ohio political support of the civil union bill in landscape, what are the two Illinois was delivered by 69-year most achievable LGBT issues in old Republican State RepresentaOhio? tive William Black. We are also EM: The Equal Housing and Em- seeing a dramatic generational ployment Act, which would proshift, with younger Republicans hibit discrimination in housing more frequently taking pro-equaland employment on the basis of ity positions (Megan McCain supsexual orientation and gender porting the repeal of Don’t Ask, identity, is within reach. In the Don’t Tell and Barbara Bush suplast legislative session, this bill porting gay marriage for examwas the first pro-equality piece of ple). So, we need to begin this legislation to pass either chamber conversation understanding that of the Ohio General Assembly. “Republican” and “pro-equality” While the Ohio General Assembly are not mutually exclusive. experienced turnover in the last election, I believe there is a path There are three important strateto passing this bill through the gies to obtaining Republican supGeneral Assembly and getting it port. The first is engaging them in signed by the Governor in this leg- conversation, whether it be islative term. through Equality Ohio, through citizen lobbying, or by having The second is the Safe School Act LGBT folks they know talk to relating to school bullying. I bethem. When people know (or are lieve that publicity surrounding related to) openly LGBT people, the numerous LGBT suicides in they are much more likely to be the last year, as well as the strong pro-equality (see Dick Cheney). support of many legislators, The second is to focus on the conmakes this a bill a strong candi- servative principles supporting date for passage. LGBT equality - namely individual rights and limited government inCH: What is the strategy to get terference in personal issues. The there? third, particularly in relation to EM: The strategy involves public employment and housing, is to education, lobbying and political focus on the relationship between engagement. We need to educate pro-equality legislation and ecopeople - current allies and oppo- nomic growth. Businesses are nents alike - in areas where legis- supportive of pro-equality legislalators are not pro-equality and tion because they know it is imhave them systematically contact portant for them to recruit and their elected officials and urge retain employees from around the them to vote in favor of the bills. country. We also need to effectively lobby the legislature, including on We can’t convince those who Equality Ohio lobby day - May 18 don’t support us now to do so in this year. Finally, the Equality Ohio the future unless we speak their Political Action Committee must language and engage the debate strategically ensure that our on terms that resonate with them. friends are supported and that there are electoral consequences CH: How long do you see you to voting against equality. staying at Equality Ohio? EM: At least until same sex couIn the long term, I think it is esples can get legally married in sential to elect openly lesbian, Ohio. gay, bisexual and transgender people to the General Assembly CH: How can people get involved and to other offices around the in Equality Ohio? State. It is much more difficult to EM: There are many ways to get Ed Mullen - continued from page 36

The Promises Kept Report by Joe Biden

bat social and economic injustice. And I am proud to It was two years ago today say it’s a story that continues that Barack and I were sworn in the remarkable progress in, and I remember what he we’ve made in the past two said like it was this morning: years. To tell it, Organizing for America has written Prom“The challenges we face are ises Kept. real, they are serious, and they are many. They will not There’s a whole lot to be be met easily or in a short proud of. span of time. But know this, America: They will be met.” Of course, the big ones come to mind first: historic health Even then, we knew it would insurance reform, which is take time. We knew it would reining in the insurance combe hard. And we knew we panies and helping control would sometimes make mis- the cost of care for millions of takes. Americans; Wall Street reform, which put in place the But we did not lose sight of toughest consumer protecwhat we came to do. tions ever; and the end of combat operations in Iraq, Together, we took on difficult which brought more than issues that had been put off 100,000 troops home. for decades. And some say we have accomplished more And there is so much more in two years than any admin- you’ve helped achieve that is istration since Roosevelt’s. right now improving lives across the country: Take it from me, that’s something you should take to • We passed the Recovery heart - because none of it Act, which saved and created would have been possible more than 3 million jobs, without your hard work. provided the largest middleclass tax cut in a generation, But the job’s not done. and made landmark investments in clean energy, infraI am reminded of that every structure, and education. time I travel to the small • We made critical investtowns in Pennsylvania, Iowa, ments in General Motors and New Mexico - all over - and Chrysler, saving tens of thouon the weekends I get home sands of jobs - and perhaps to Delaware. I meet folks who the companies - and are still struggling, who want spurring a rebirth of the to know when the recovery American car industry. will start to turn things • We wrote into law student around for their family. loan reform and credit card reform, which ended the These people are why we worst abuses of the banking can’t quit. industries and are making lending fair for American And moving forward with this families. new Congress, we will need • We put two new Supreme to defend what we’ve Court justices on the bench achieved together as aggres- Sonia Sotomayor and Elena sively as we pursue the goals Kagan, who bring rich and that remain. diverse experience to the Court. I believe in the power of pub- • We have begun to reset lic service because I’ve seen America’s relationship with what it has done throughout the international community, our country’s history to com- from the ratification of a new outlookcolumbus.com

START nuclear arms treaty with Russia to tough new sanctions on Iran to strengthening our long-term partnership with a unified Iraq. • And we finally repealed “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” which was the right thing to do not only because it makes our military stronger at a time when it needs to be the strongest, but because we are seeking that military might with an abiding sense of justice. Telling the story of the past two years will be critical to the fights ahead. And it’s not just the story of this president or this White House - it’s your story. And it is literally proof that the organizing you do on the ground - the conversations you have with your friends and neighbors - is working. Now, I’m not going to say the last two years were easy and I won’t tell you the fights ahead are going to get any easier. But I didn’t sign up for a cake walk. And I’m pretty sure you didn’t either. We’re here to move our country forward. We’re here to lay a new foundation for this country - for our economy, for our politics, and for our children’s and grandchildren’s futures. And, as Barack says, what we will be able to accomplish together is in your hands. It’s how hard we all work, and how well we all tell this story. Take a few minutes to read Promises Kept - and let’s keep moving. Promises Kept downloaded at: http://my.barackobama.com/page/c ontent/PromisesKept/?source=HQB.

How many shots of whiskey do you think it takes Joe till he starts swinging - dancin’, figntin’ or lovin’?

involved. The first is to go to www.equalityohio.org and sign up for our mailing list. You will receive a monthly newsletter, action alerts and other information about getting involved as a supporter or volunteer. The second is to become a member of Equality Ohio, which you can also do at www.equalityohio.org. The third is to come to Lobby Day on May 18 and talk to your State Representative and State Senator personally about why they should support pro-equality legislation. We are always looking for volunteers and are open to your involvement or engagement in any way that is right for you. You can always contact me directly at ed@equalityohio.org and I will hook you up with whatever Equality Ohio activity you’d like to be involved in. CH: How do we get the younger generations tapped in? EM: It is critically important for the future of the pro-equality movement to get the younger generation involved. In some ways, we are victims of the success we have achieved, and young LGBT folks in Ohio can move to places like Columbus and feel safe and protected. But we cannot be satisfied with what second-class rights we have achieved to date, and we need to continue the march toward full equality and inclusion. To engage the younger generation, I think first we need to use the communication tools they use. We are on facebook (join our page!), twitter (follow us!), and will be revamping our website to make it more interactive. We also need to educate the younger generation about the history of the LGBT equality movement and the struggles we faced to achieve the freedoms we have today. Nothing opened my eyes more than the hour I spent talking to Frank Kameny in DC and the dinner I had with Del Lyon and Phyllis Martin in San Francisco (look them up!). Finally, I think we need to educate the younger generation about the ways in which our second-class legal status will affect them as they enter relationships and think about raising families. CH: What is the single most important thing people can do to move GLBT equality forward? EM: Be out, loud and proud as an LGBT person or an ally. To get involved with fighting for your equality with Equality Ohio or for more info: http://www.equalityohio.org. mar 2011

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Home Grown, Now On Their Own… Singers Aiden Leslie and Emii Pursue Their Pop Star Dreams

by Charlie Rockafort “Whenever I return home to Ohio, I’m always reminded how kind people are,” says Cincinnati raised music artist Aiden Leslie from his Manhattan apartment. “It’s a much slower pace there than it is in the big city. People are much more welcoming at home.” Emii, who grew up in Youngstown but calls Manhattan home now, agrees. “Not that I didn’t appreciate them back then, but being away has made me think more fondly about my family and friends.” Aiden Leslie and Emii are part of a growing number of young artists who have made the pilgrimage to New York City to pursue their dreams of fame and fortune. “My ultimate mission as a performer is to share my story and experiences,” explains Leslie. His first single in two years, “Worlds Away,” released last month from VicTim Music Group. “I aim to inspire people to look closer at their lives and strive to be better. I also hope they’ll dance their asses off.”

“I saw dance and the underground club scene as another form of theatre,” he explains. “Unscripted and self-expressive; an art form in stark contrast to the strict structure of the traditional plays I was performing in.” The one element he found to be lacking in dance was the presence of strong male vocalists. “A lot of DJs are simply not open to playing male artists on their dance floors. I think it’s time that has changed. I want to be a part of the movement to bring more guys to the floor.” And he has. The Junior Vasquez remix of Aiden’s “Love to Hate You,” a remake of the Erasure hit, ignited floors around the world and introduced Aiden Leslie as a formidable talent. Leslie describes his sound as Hip-Pop with a strong dance influence. It is a true reflection of his life, he says, but admits it wasn’t always. In fact, the follow-up song to his successful debut was a song that Aiden describes as “unauthentic to his true self.” It is part of the reason for his recent two-year absence from music.

“I was mesmerized by Elvis as a child,” he remembers. “My parents were huge fans and would always play his records. One morning I told my parents I wanted to be a singer like Elvis and they said I could do anything I wanted. Their belief encouraged me.”

“It was not the direction I wanted to go in musically,” he admits. “Coming off ‘Love to Hate You,’ so many opportunities were being offered and I was taken in by it all. Right away, I knew it was a mistake and I learned a hard lesson from it. A fat paycheck is nice, but it’s not worth losing your integrity and your voice.”

He attended a rigorous performing arts school in Cleveland that he says thickened his skin and prepared him for what was ahead.

The release also coincided with the hardest loss Aiden Leslie has ever experienced in his life: the unexpected death of his older sister.

Six days after graduating, at 18, he moved to New York City and was quickly cast in an off Broadway play. In between rehearsals, he would tag along with the show’s sound engineer to scour the shelves of Eightball Records, a vinyl record shop. There, Aiden was introduced to an underground music world he didn’t know existed. It wasn’t long before he became a fixture in the New York nightlife circuit.

“She was my only sibling and the primary caretaker for my parents, who were both ill.” Aiden returned to Cincinnati to care for his parents. He also began work on new music.

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“Worlds Away” is a song he wrote about life’s journey. It examines how people face struggle and the inevitability of change. It also reflects on the aftermath of struggle, reaching the light at the end

of the tunnel and the realization of growth from adversity. “I’ve learned that in life there are hills to climb,” he says. “Its how you manage the fall down and the climb up from the hills that is key.” “Life is bittersweet,” he continues. “We all have a purpose to find. I am grateful to have found my purpose in music. Being given a second chance to share it with the world is a gift.” Emii, too, believes she has found her life’s purpose and knows that in order to obtain it, she must pay her dues in Manhattan.

Ask Emii about her musical inspirations and she’ll rattle off a litany of female frontrunners and rock n’ roll legends. Though she grew up singing their songs, Emii’s potent blend of pop, rock and dance produces a sound all her own. She belts out lyrics about life, love, and relationships with intense, gut-wrenching emotion. Songs like “My Zombie Boyfriend” unleash Emii’s angst over falling for the wrong guy, while “Magic,” a song released last summer that is still playing strong on gay dance floors across the country, is a fun, sexy tune that begs the timeless question: Is he the right one for me?

“Performing is fun, but if I was just doing it for myself, I’d do it in a basement and no one would hear. I miss home but New York is where I need to be right now.”

“I’m thrilled Magic has found a home on gay dance floors,” she says. “Gay boys get me because they share my passion for losing yourself on the dance floor, meeting someone, and then continuing the journey at home.”

Emii started singing at five and, against her parents’ wishes, began fronting bands in her early teens. “Music is in my blood,” she says. “I really can’t see doing anything else.”

“Sometimes we fall too far,” she cautions. “But baby, love is worth it.”

While her friends picked out their prom dresses, Emii perfected her studio recordings. She couldn’t resist the lure of the big city, and would shuttle back and forth from Youngstown to New York City for auditions and open mic gigs. The dual life ended the day Emii turned 18. Like Leslie, she bolted to The Big Apple and never looked back.

She likens romantic love to her love of Manhattan. “The moment I arrived, it was my second home. Any negative experiences while transitioning to the city were drowned out by my passion for music.” Aiden Leslie agrees. “It’s hard to explain, but I never had a question in my mind about moving to New York City. It was right.”

In Manhattan, Emii wrote, recorded and lived the bohemian life, performing in dark, seedy venues and collaborating with other underground artists. “There are very few people who can completely dedicate their lives to music,” Emii says. “When you truly live for something, it grows.”

Still, he says he’ll always have a place in his heart for Ohio. “You never can erase your history or where everything begins for you. I feel grateful every time I think of where I came from.”

Her new song, “Mr. Romeo,” is a high-powered dance romp that features a rap by one of the original partiers of hip hop, Snoop Dog.

Says Emii, “Ohio is a source of inspiration for me. Whenever I feel discouraged, or harbor doubt about whether or not I will one day reach my dreams, I can look back on my time in Youngstown and feel pride in how far I’ve come.”

“I am no Juliet,” she admits, reflecting on the song’s title. “I am strong hearted, fierce, and independent.”

For more information, visit www.emii.net and www.aidenleslie.com.

Momma said never trust a girl with two first names. She never said anything about boys though.

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Oh there will be hanngers, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t you worry.

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Technology in the Arts: Friend or Foe? by Julie Roth Just when we thought we’ve seen it all, something new comes along. Something we’ve never seen or heard. Something exciting and attractive. Technology. With no end in sight, our society continues to embrace new technological developments. From the iPad to foursquare and Android to Klout, devices and applications continue to significantly alter our jobs, relationships, and hobbies. Despite the traditional foundations of many art forms, the arts industry is not immune to technological impact. Artists, performers, arts organizations, and audience members are consistently met with opportunities to change. Abandon the old and embrace the new. But how do these changes affect the arts we know and love? Can technology spoil the purity of art or even disable our local arts scene? Take, for instance, the following examples: On January 9, 2011, the Los Angeles Philharmonic recorded a live broadcast of its concert using state-of-the-art audio and visual technology. The impactful performance can be seen in movie theatres worldwide for a fraction of the cost of a single concert ticket. Several Washington D.C. theatres are not only offering “Tweet Seats,” but are releasing these seats free of charge to patrons who wish to log onto the social network during the performance and share their experience with followers. While some patrons may be annoyed by the glow of mobile

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screens, marketers are willing to take the risk to promote themselves among a younger audience. Using “Street View” technology, Google has recently launched Art Project, an interactive web-based resource that allows visitors to view famous works of art, tour worldwide museums, and interact with other viewers. Detailed cameras paired with high-definition screens allow individuals to view paintings, sculptures, and exhibits without leaving the house or paying admission. These and other innovative means of connecting art with art-lovers establish new boundaries within the industry. While the use of computers, mobile devices, and applications may supplement the overall artistic experience, it also creates new competition. Here in Columbus, there are seemingly unlimited options when it comes to local entertainment and engagement. Technology has just added to the mix. As technology increases accessibility and decreases cost, local arts organizations may struggle to attract audiences, to raise needed funds, and to play a vital role in the community. Or will they? Though it is obvious that today’s society has more options than ever before, technology may serve the local arts culture by engaging a new audience and enticing further involvement. The quality of an audio or visual art experience may be increasing, but the appeal of a hands-on, live experience cannot be replaced. While the Los Angeles Philhar-

How many beats or bits per minute do you think those shoes get?

monic claims the most advanced audio presentation a movie theatre offers, can this really compare to the acoustics of a live performance in the Southern Theatre? Can viewing the glass dome of a museum’s lobby on a 13inch screen really compare to standing under it and seeing the light reflections with your own eyes? Rather, technology may serve as a needed bridge to the arts, making music, dance, sculpture, theatre, and visual artwork accessible to those who sit on the sidelines, encouraging first-hand participation. One may be more likely to attend a ProMusica concert if he or she saw the LA Phil at the movie theatre. One may be more eager to see a live theatre performance if his or her friends tweet about them. One may be more inclined to go to a local museum after exploring the offerings of Google Art Project. Technological possibilities are endless and will only continue to evolve. In the midst of all the noise it creates, technology can enrich the arts as we know them and connect an unprecedented number of individuals to artistic benefits. Will we allow it? Julie Roth is with Promusica Columbus, a member organization of the Columbus Arts Marketing Association. CAMA’s mission is to promote awareness of and participation in the arts and cultural opportunities in Greater Columbus through collaborative marketing and public relations projects, and to provide professional development opportunities for members. For information visit www.camaonline.org.

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CATF does free, confidential treatment at their new digs on N High St and at Stonewall. Go to CATF.net for times & dates.

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We wanted to give you a three chest sunday with a cherry on top!

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FINALLY: A LESBIAN SITCOM ON A MAJOR NETWORK. MAYBE. As NBC ushers in a new network chief, Bob Greenblatt, another change is possibly in the air. I Hate That I Love You, from former Will & Grace producer Jhoni Marchenko, is going to pilot. That’s typical news at this time of year, but what makes Hate different is that if it goes to series it will be the first primetime, major network sitcom about lesbians. Here’s the logline: “A straight couple introduces two of its lesbian friends to one another and what results is both instant attraction and a pregnancy.” There’s no casting news yet, but it’s still an exciting development, one that’s long overdue in this post L-Word world. Suggestion for the creators: If they didn’t both have to be white bread safe and super-lipsticky that would give you even more cred among actual lesbians, but then again they’ll be sure to tell you that themselves should you wind up making that error in judgment. MTV GETS BETTER WITH DAN SAVAGE

MOULIN JOHN

WHEN SETH MET STREISAND

DEBRA MESSING GETS MORE GAY PALS

Elton John recently told BBC Radio that his life story is going to be turned into a movie by his Billy Elliot collaborator Lee Hall. One potentially awesome feature of that plan? Elton John will be hands-on helping every step of the way. Now, to sane people, this should bring to mind images of Michael Jackson directing giant statues made in his likeness to be erected in Romania. And you know how excellently entertaining that was. So if John is determined to see a Moulin Rouge-style film of his life take place, then rest assured it’s going to be narcissistic, extravagant, shiny and flat-out bonkers. Think EJ-themed episode of Glee meets drug addiction meets shopaholism meets sparkly boots and Donald Duck costumes. Now, will someone please bring Tommy (in which John co-starred) director Ken Russell out of semi-retirement to take over?

Old-school gay icon meets Gen Y stoner-bear bro? It’s happening, like it or not. Barbra Streisand will team up with Seth Rogen for a generation gap road trip comedy called My Mother’s Curse, to be executive produced by both of them (as well as Rogen’s writing partner Evan Goldberg and others). Rogen will play an inventor on a cross-country trip to sell his new product, with Streisand riding shotgun, making his life difficult and reuniting with a long-lost love. Dan Fogelman (Cars) penned the screenplay after dealing with real-life travels alongside his own mother and it all goes in front of the cameras sometime this spring. Skeptical after seeing Little Fockers? Understandable. But think about this: once upon a time, Streisand turned in one of the great comedic performances of the 1970s in the nevernot-funny-no-matter-how-many-times-youwatch-it What’s Up Doc? Who’s to say lightning can’t strike twice?

Call it whatever you want – the creators call it Smash – but please don’t call it Will & Grace II. OK, sure, it does star Debra Messing as a New Yorker whose closest relationship is with a gay man (not yet cast). But that’s where the similarities end. This gay man isn’t a bourgeois lawyer, he’s a Broadway composer and Messing is his lyricist/foil. Together the pair is commissioned with bringing a musical to the stage, with all the diva meltdowns that attend that sort of thing. More intriguingly, the project is produced by Steven Spielberg and being called a musical drama at this point in its development. As is the case with all pilots, the chances are great that it will never be seen by the general public, but this one seems promising and almost a sure bet for gay audience adoration. Here’s hoping.

GOOD CHRISTIAN BITCHES COMING SOON

Yes, there’s a TV show going to pilot called Good Christian Bitches. Yes, of course, they’re going to MTV might be feeling the heat of advertiser dis- change the name. It’s network television, after approval right now with its decision to air the all, not Showtime. The Desperate Housewives-like sexually charged teen series Skins, but that isn’t project, produced by Darren Star (Sex and the stopping them from moving forward with a pilot City), written by Steel Magnolias scribe Robert from Savage Love’s Dan Savage, the longtime Harling and based on the book by Kim Gatlin, insex advice columnist from Seattle’s The Stranger volves a single mother returning to the wealthy and The Onion’s AV Club. The man who created Dallas suburb where she grew up, only to find the “It Gets Better” campaign that saw gay herself surrounded by gossip, scandal and a adults making videos to encourage younger gay gaggle of the title’s specific brand of venomous and lesbian people not to give up hope for a bet- lady. With the housewives phenomenon – both ter future, Savage will pattern the show’s pilot on the desperate and real varieties – simultaneously his college campus lecture tour in which he expanding and showing signs of creative fatigue, fielded questions from the post-adolescent audi- it’ll be a shot of fresh blood when this twist on ence. And if you’ve seen him speak publicly or the formula finds a place in a network schedule, read his column, you know that his brand of sex provided the makers don’t lose their nerve. No acadvice is unflinchingly honest and almost always tors are in place yet, either, but have the casting graphic. Makes you wonder how much language people considered going straight to the source for bleeping MTV is prepared to do in the name of local talent? There’s really nothing quite like the authenticity. No news on when the show may air, real thing. but brace yourself when it does. outlookcolumbus.com

CORIOLANUS WANTS AN OSCAR IN 2012 One of Shakespeare’s lesser-known plays, Coriolanus, based on the life of the Roman leader, just got the big screen treatment thanks to director Ralph Fiennes and gay screenwriter John Logan (The Aviator). Starring Fiennes, Gerard Butler, Brian Cox and Vanessa Redgrave, it’s based on the life of the Roman leader and, naturally, involves banishment, revenge and political machinations. And sure, Shakespeare seems a tougher and tougher sell to American audiences these days, but it’s great that Fiennes went off and followed his muse anyway. Even better, the movie’s been picked up for distribution by The Weinstein Company and is coming to an arthouse theater near big city folks later this year in the hopes of cleaning up in the 2012 awards season. And if that happens, the rest of you multiplex patrons will have your chance to check it out, anon.

People, people who need people, are the luckiest people in the world... or just codependent.

THE GAY JERSEY SHORE? Nothing succeeds like success, even if – and sometimes because – that success is incredibly trashy. Witness, then, what Jersey Shore has spawned: not only is the less compelling Jerseylicious still on the air, but now a gay version is apparently in the works. An open casting call recently took place in Hammonton, N.J., for a show tentatively titled Under the Boardwalk that will focus on a group of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people living in an Atlantic City beach house for a summer. The creators swear up and down that they don’t want to promote negative stereotypes or create a gay version of the Jersey Shore, but dignity is always the first quality thrown out the window in these sorts of endeavors. It also doesn’t help that the audition promotional spots asked, “Are you the gay Snooki?” Coming much later: A List: New York vs. Gay Jersey Shore Road Rules Challenge/DrinkOff.

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Superhetero: Scott Herman Fights for Gay Rights by Larry Lazzari Scott Herman is best known for flexing his muscles on MTV’s Real World and on his weekly Youtube workout videos. But the blonde Adonis is now strengthening up for a new fight for gay rights. Growing up in New Hampshire, Scott remembers words like “gay” and “fag” being part of the everyday vernacular. “When you’re a kid, you don’t realize the hate behind the words and how hurtful they can be to a whole community of people.” “Living in the Real World house opened my eyes,” he continues. The season introduced not one, but three LGBT members to viewers including Katelynn, a transgender woman, who had the most impact on Scott. “I had gay friends before, but during the show, Katelynn and I worked with The Center in New York City. It was the first time I really became aware of the struggles of the LGBT community. When I heard the stories of Sean Kennedy and Matthew Shepard, I knew I had to do something.” Scott is leading a charge to recruit straight allies to the gay rights movement. In addition to lending his celebrity to gay organizations including Trevor Project, HRC, and Gladd, Scott is calling for straight men to prove they are real men by standing up for gay rights. Larry Lazzari: Why is a straight man taking on gay rights? Scott Herman: I have always been a seeker of truth and an advocate for justice. LL: You sound like a superhero. SH: I grew up knowing what it felt like to be left out of the crowd and picked on. I idolized the superheroes in my comics and thought that if I could be more like Superman or Captain America, I could one day make a difference in the world. LL: Why is it important that heterosexuals take on the gay cause? SH: We live in a monkey-see, monkey-do society. One person standing up can inspire others. My nickname as a kid just happened to be Monkey.

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LL: As a result of your stand, you’ve faced some discrimination yourself. SH: Some wonder why a straight guy would fight for the rights of the gay community. They assume I must be gay.

Garrison on South Park. Even then, I thought it was a million dollar procedure that most people couldn’t afford. I didn’t realize the operation was so common.

LL: How did you relate to Katelynn? LL: Are you ok with that? SH: We were friends the instant SH: It doesn’t matter to me what we met. The show never really people think because true equal- dove into the bond we had. ity means we don’t look at people as straight or gay, just LL: What did you have in compeople. mon with her? SH: A lot, actually. We spent LL: In your opinion, why do het- hours talking about mixed marerosexuals have such a prob- tial arts, Ninja Turtles, Translem with homosexuality? formers, Dragon Ball Z, xBox, SH: The media portrays the gay and other things that only comic lifestyle negatively and as a re- book dorks like us would know sult, a lot of people have the about. wrong impression of the community. Even some young LGBT LL: What is your relationship kids in the beginning process of like today? coming out have the wrong idea SH: We play catch-up every few of what it means to be gay. weeks. Katelynn is getting married next year! I can’t wait to go LL: Were you ever opposed to to her wedding. homosexuality? SH: When I was a kid I thought it LL: Why do you think you have was wrong only because no one become so popular with the was telling me it was right. I gay community? Is it because was never exposed to gay peoof your looks? ple. SH: I think that just like in any relationship, it began with looks. LL: Was the Real World house But as relationships go on, looks your first exposure to the gay matter less because there are community? plenty more good-looking dudes SH: No, I met my first gay friends out there. I think the reason the around 18 when I started work- LGBT community continues to ing at a gym in New Hampshire. support me is because they I even went to my first gay club know my advocacy is legit. The around that time. same blogs who at first referred to me as a “hot piece of ass” LL: What did you think when now write thoughtful posts you first learned you would be about me because they know I living with a gay man? am genuine in my cause. SH: I thought it was sweet because gay men always have the LL: Your Youtube workout cutest girl friends. videos have become quite a sensation with close to a milLL: Did you have any fear that lion views on many of them! he might try to seduce you? SH: The secret to my YouTube SH: Not at all. Whenever a guy success is consistency. When hits on me, I smile. I’m thankful people get involved in fitness, to be good looking enough to at- especially in the beginning, they tract a gay man. They’re ten need constant support. I post a times pickier than woman. new workout every Tuesday, three new individual exercises LL: Were you nervous changing ever Saturday, and a weekly upclothes in front of him? date on Sundays. SH: No, JD was a cool dude. Being gay doesn’t mean you are LL: It sounds like you’ve built a going to be creepy. fitness community. SH: That’s exactly what it is. LL: You also lived with Katelynn, Anyone can go to the Facebook a transsexual. Had you ever community page and ask quesknown a transsexual before? tions to get the help and support SH: The only time I had ever they need. Right now there are heard of a transsexual was over 31,000 Hermanites ready to when Mr. Garrison became Mrs. support you on your fitness jour-

Who else is sooo excited for the Captain America movie? And then the Avengers...OMG!

ney. LL: What percentage of Hermanites are gay? SH: 93% of the community is male, however when you sign up for YouTube or on my site, your sexuality doesn’t come into question. Based on comments and posts, I would say I have a pretty even split of straight and gay community members. LL: Is it really possible for anyone to get a body like yours? SH: Yes, all it takes is consistency and determination. LL: What do you suggest people do to get started on the path to fitness? SH: I suggest a goal board. Visualizing your goals is the best way to stay on top of them. LL: Do you provide a mean plan? SH: For sure. What you eat is going to make up the foundation of your results. A weak foundation will collapse once you start building on it. LL: Do you love showing off your physique? SH: I have spent fourteen years sculpting my body. Just like a sculptor enjoys showing off his work, I do too. I also know that others are inspired by my photos. I was inspired by the physiques of the guys in my gym. LL: And you’re ok with gay men viewing you as sex object? SH: It doesn’t bother me. We all have our fantasies. LL: Would you pose for Playgirl? SH: Posing for playgirl isn’t on my agenda. I am fighting for equality, not attention. LL: What message do you have for your gay fans in light of the recent attacks and suicides? SH: The recent attacks and suicides are examples of what happens when people who can do something don’t. We all need to stand together and fight for change. We can’t allow these right wing fanatics to deny the community its basic civil rights. Justice needs to and will prevail. Visit Scott at www.facebook.com/ScottHermanFitness.

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Looks like Beuhla spiked crazy ladies drink again. That a girl. Now sell her a loan!

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by Mackenzie Worrall “…because all children are first presumed straight and are only allowed to come out as gay, or queer, or homosexual when it is thought they could know their sexuality – in their late teens or after, presumptively. For this reason, the phrase “gay child” acts as a gravestone marking a death: the point at which one’s future as a straight adult expired…” (The Queer Child, or Growing Sideways in the Twentieth Century by Kathryn Bond Stockton, Duke University Press, 312 pages, $22.95 paperback) What Kathryn Stockton puts forth in The Queer Child is only the tip of a brilliant and rich intellectual iceberg. Most academic studies focus on points in time, where variables can be controlled and conclusions drawn. Stockton instead is developing a whole new language to discuss ‘growing up’ – all the way from birth to death. Before, we conceptualized ourselves as growing toward something, some ill-defined point that when we reached, we would stay that person for the rest of our lives. In fact, this is the greatest lie of childhood. Stockton challenges all traditional social theory by redefining how we evolve throughout our lives. And she’s starting at the beginning. The Queer Child explores the lives of fictional characters of works ranging from Henry James to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. What happens when a child has expectations projected onto or promised to them? Whether they be sexual, economic, or innocent expectations? And when these promises are broken, or the child comes out as gay (breaking an unspoken assumption of heterosexuality), how does this affect ‘growth’? After ruminating on her book for a bit, Kathryn was kind enough to talk with me about her studies.

The Myth of ‘Growing Up’ 48

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Mackenzie Worrall: Do you see fiction as a voice for change, at least in terms of helping children grow up instead of sideways? Kathryn Bond Stockton: We might be putting these ideas in their heads. But that’s more on the shoulders of those writing positive young adult gay fiction - which is probably out there in the world, but I am not in that field. Sophisticated fictions – Henry James or Virginia Woolf – they don’t easily translate into a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ dichotomy. They poise more questions. Push - by Sapphire - is a very troubling fiction, but it doesn’t leave you any how-to. It doesn’t go in a direction. Push doesn’t tackle child abuse head-on and dissect all the

Pillar of gay salt anyone?

implications of that. The main issue of Push is the problem with child abuse and how it affects literacy. It’s very interesting to limit the scope like that. Fiction is better than a documentary. There’s more freedom. You can look at the complicated questions they represent without a censor – although Nabokov runs into that problem. But generally, people aren’t troubled by fictions in the same way. They are allowed to tackle more complicated questions.

der identity. The issue with coming out now is that it’s inherently sexual, which is why people are squeamish about it. We don’t like to think about sexual children and ‘gay’ is a sexualized identity. The second possibility, which is much more likely, is that we will culturally desexualize the gay identity as kids start coming out at younger and younger ages.

MW: I love that you end, in part, with an analysis of Hoop Dreams. While the subjects of your concluMW: Did you discover that ‘the sion are queered by money and not child’ is merely the act of adults sex, all children reach that same looking back through some perbitter disappointment and determisonal revelation? Or do you, as an nation to move on when they realadult, still have trouble reconciling ize how sideways they’ve grown. a younger you with your own idea It’s an act of getting back on track. of ‘the child’? Is this a feeling everyone has to go KS: Very much so. The book is deeply through at some point? personal, and inspired myself as a KS: Disappointment and delay were ghostly gay child. This is where helpful to occur earlier in life. We Columbus comes in. I grew up in make changes and accommodations Columbus – I moved when I was when we realize we can’t have the three-and-a-half or maybe four, but ‘normal’ life portrayed by Hollywood my ghostliness is linked to certain and TV. This prepares for lifelong spaces. These mark my early memo- disappointments. Encountered, emries. I had crushes on girls around braced, and worked through. the neighborhood, maybe not too serious, but it links me to Columbus. And what is an adult vertical track? Though I’m not sure when my rela- We say adults cease to grow. There is tionship with the word ‘gay’ began, no discourse on that and why it’s or ‘lezzie’ or etc... I don’t recall the wrong. Neuroscience shows that first time I thought ‘Oh no, that’s cognitive pathways get deeper with me.’ I felt a strong link to the ‘T’ – age. It’s part of growth. As we get transgender. I felt that as a boy, older, our thoughts and processes these feelings would be normal. But mature. We need richer language to people told me I was a girl. I felt it describe growth in later parts of life. was a horrible mistake made by God For most people, the language we and everyone else. So I was a girl at have to mark adult growth is defined school, and broke out as a boy at re- by the progress of their children. But cess. I could also be a boy at night. many queer people do not raise chilMy childhood was bifurcated by day dren. There are no stages to mark and night. that in our adult lives, whereas they are crucial markers for heterosexual MW: As the idea of ‘gay child’ fades couples. We are now positioned to from our culture, do you also see raise questions about these stages that as the end of the misconcep- as Queer Studies ‘grows up’. tion of childhood innocence? KS: The ghostly gay child is fading. MW: Plugs, book recommendaHere in Utah, there are still lots of tions, fashion advice? kids not saying one blessed word. KS: I have three recommendations Sure they see it on TV and such, but for you. Though they are still in the there are no live role models in their manuscript stage and not out yet. lives. But still, having those fictional Single Arguments for the Uncoupled representatives changes things dra- from NYU press. Michael Cobb, a matically. You can hear around you Toronto queer theorist. Cruising that the discourse has changed from Utopia by José Miñoz, which is about that child “might grow up to be…” our future and hope. And The Erotic to “that kid is…” Life of Racism (Sharon Holland), though I’m not as sure if it’s producMW: What are the consequences in tion or not. society as ‘the child’ disappears? Do you think there will be a new As for fashion advice, my hot tip is to middle stage of maturity that we delve further into metal and wooden have yet to recognize? ties. Oh yes, and also film strip ties. KS: Are we losing childhood? It hasn’t remained the same before, so Kathryn Bond Stockton is Professor of English and Director of Gender Studies at the Univerwhy now? It’s so interesting to see sity of Utah. Both The Queer Child, or Growing which of two cultural effects happen. Sideways in the Twentieth Century and BeauThe first, is that we may actually, tiful Bottom, Beautiful Shame: Where “Black” grudgingly, be coming to terms with Meets “Queer” have been Lambda Literary child sexuality. We still scour at gen- Award finalists.

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I like your beard.

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Model + Fashion : Crys Lappie

The Spring Fashion Agenda by Ryan Harris The definition of agenda is “a temporarily organized plan for matters to be attended to.” Spring certainly has such an agenda in mind, and it fully expects you to follow through… well I do at least. There are so many exciting things about this upcoming fashion season for both men and women that I can’t even begin to touch on it all, but I am certainly going to try! First on the agenda is another fashion flashback. Designers have transported us back to the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s this spring with inspirations crossing all borders. Some we have seen from the last couple of seasons, still inspiring us, and others are just making their debut. Looks such as a classic sheath dress, hitting just below the knee, creates the perfect hourglass silhouette. Long flowing wrap dresses in beautiful vibrant prints can be perfect for every occasion depending on how you accessorize. You will also see several crocheted items creeping their way back into your wardrobe. Pant legs have gone wider, clogs are knocking down the runways, and fringe is slapping everyone in the face like a fashion car wash. I have to admit… I kinda like it. The 50’s and 60’s inspirations are exactly

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what you would expect, with full round skirts, long sheath dresses, cardigans, and the very famous kitten heel. Cat eye sunglasses, red lipstick, and silk scarves are also a great 50’s trend that can light up any gloomy day. The 60’s inspirations range from very classic, very Jackie O, to the decades best… the mini skirt. The pants are getting wider, and the waistlines and hemlines are getting higher. Bright and vibrant colors are in almost every collection, which pulls it all together for that all over good feeling. My true excitement comes from the 70’s inspirations, where it’s all about three very important “C’s…” comfort, color, and creativity... Oh, and one “S,” sexuality. Don’t be afraid to cut loose, play with color, grab your rose tinted, over-sized glasses and hit the town. Whether you go for a relaxed bohemian look, or classic 70’s disco, you will love the way you look. During daylight hours, keep it “ready to wear.” Start with a gorgeous bow-blouse in either silk or satin. Pair it with high waist, wide leg trousers and grab your retro gold jewelry, (the bigger and bolder the better). Want to wear a onesie? Slip into a jumpsuit and take the leap, it’s very chic. Once the sun goes down, you should look more to Studio 54 for your inspiration. Feel confident and free to explore in mini skirts, maxi dresses, low neck lines and anything

that shimmers. Another big trend isn’t from outer space, but it’s certainly out-to-sea. The nautical inspirations are clear, especially for the men this spring. For a dressier look, double-breasted suits in ivory or navy are a must. Pair with a classic crisp white shirt or stripes and gingham prints. Necktie or not, this look is killer. If you do go with a tie, bold blue and white strips, or even polka dots is the way to go. Classic butterscotch brown wing tip loafers or white leather loafers are the perfect foundation for this look, not that canvas isn’t going to be covering the majority of mens’ feet. Want to keep your look more relaxed? No problem. Keep your color palette in the white, ivory, and navy family. Relaxed cotton shorts, polos and long sleeve wovens, canvas belts and shoes… you get the point. Ladies, the sea is calling you too! Sticking to the same color palette as the men, your spring wardrobe should be able to achieve this look with ease. Imagine yourself taking a stroll down a beautiful beach, then boarding an obnoxious yacht and sailing away. Oh wait, that is one of my dreams… Anyway, it’s easy to get carried away with this look, so keep it more about the look and less about the costume. A chic cropped blazer in white or navy would be a perfect day to night tran-

That picture is Traut in drag...seriously.

sitional piece. Just stay away from big gold buttons or anything that looks too literal. That way it truly can be a transitional piece. High waist or drawstring wide leg trousers are very on trend, particularly in linen. Stripes and polka dots are making their way into everything from swimsuits to suiting, and when it comes to accessories, it’s gold all the way. Seriously, there are so many more inspirations this spring that I wish I could cover because this year’s Spring Fashion has me more excited than I have been since Ricky Martin finally came out. Just as everything feels and looks new this time of year, fashion is certainly fresh again! So when you are going through your wardrobe this season remember this... if it can take you from Pier 54 to Studio 54, keep it! Now I couldn’t wrap up this month’s article without sending much love to you (and me) on our anniversary. This month marks exactly one year that you have been allowing me to ramble on and on about my likes and dislikes in fashion. So Happy Anniversary Columbus! Make Everyday a Runway! Ryan Harris is a Fashion Consultant/Stylist for Wardrobe Therapy, LLC, and the owner of RH Model Mentor. Contact him at rhmodelmentor@yahoo.com, or for more style info log onto www.wardrobetherapyllc.com.

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OMG OMG OMG! OFF THE GRID IS COMING! IT’S OFF THE HOOK!

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Food is dramatic - Life is delicious. Episode 248 : Silly Flaggots, Fighting’s for O’Shaugnessey’s

On the last episode of outlook’s right in the face. “Food Drama!”… “You bears do know what parA quiet meeting of Columbus lay is, don’t ya? Or has your reDrag Queens at Buca Di Beppo cent trip on the Allure of the was interrupted by a roving Seas left your brains scramgang of angry man-bears set bled and K-holed?” on destruction. Candi Panties, who walks the line between The bears looked at each other bear and Queen took her leave. confusedly, until finally Kyle The girls began to apply their Kline spoke. war paint as the bears sharpened their claws. DJ Chuck “We don not recognize parlay, Arida spun the hell out of some Shim! We will taste your blood tunes, as the two groups before this night is through! inched closer to the gay equiv- Kill the old one! Eat her bones! alent of mutual assured deSteal her tips and costumes struction. from her drag bag and dress your boyfriends in them for our And that’s what happened last next all-gay cruise! ” month on “Food Drama!” Join us now, as our players take the “Silence, bear cub!” said Sam stage. Schisler, stepping forward, glaring first at Kyle and then …The air in the room was Georgia. tense, a combination of bear musk and powder filling the “The rules of parlay are anspace. It was anyone’s guess cient, set down by bears and as to who would make the first Queens centuries older then move. Just as the two groups us. They must be honored. moved towards each other, What would you have, Queen?” ready to engage in the battle royale of battle royales, a small Georgia smiled, her wispy eyeand infirm voice spoke up in brows arching as she spoke. the silence. “I would have this moved from “I invoke parlay!” the sacred confines of Buca Di Beppo to a more appropriate The words hung in the air as establishment for fighting – slowly as the drag queens the Irish bar next door, turned around to take note of O’Shaugnessey’s Public House. where the voice was coming. I would also request that we all agree that the Center Stage “Parlay. Bears or not, I invoke Players are without question parlay, bitches. Put down your the least talented, most annoyclubs, ‘cause Miss Jackson is ing group of theatre hacks in cooking up a mess-a-somethe history of theatre and that thin’!” that their indignant response to criticism proves their supIt was Georgia Jackson, the posed art to be little more than oldest Drag Queen in existence. haphazard and poorly proShe limped forward to the front duced masturbation on the of the Queens, and stared the part of those who don’t know biggest bear she could find the difference between Pinter

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and Planters Peanuts - for what is art if it cannot hold up to criticism, ya feel?”

veritable feast. The was the “Dam” Good Fish and Chips – fresh cod beer-battered then served crisp with house chips, There was a general muttering malted tartar sauce and slaw. of agreement among the Applewood Smoked Pork Loin Queens and the bears apple glaze, served with mashed potatoes, green Sam spoke quickly and deliber- beans, and two huge O’house ately “yes, yes. Of course we onion rings. Next came the can agree with that. If I get led Corned Beef Hash, a famous into a weird forest one more family recipe brisket tossed time just to discover a scream with potatoes and scallions track and a twinkling banging topped by two over easy eggs. some pots and pans, I’ll lose my mind! But what of the For the vegetarian Queen, fighting, Shim!?” Portabella mushroom caps stuffed with spinach, red pep“The fighting will continue, but pers, and feta cheese served only at the public house after a with a balsamic and honey meal of Guinness stew, rarebit, glaze were brought out on and assorted sandwiches ac- large silver trays. Finally, the companied by beers!” house specialty and piece de resistance, Meghan’s Rarebit, “Very well, Queen. But be pre- was presented. It was sharp pared, for at days end, these Irish cheddar blended with bears will feast on the blood of Bass Ale, cream and spring Shims and Boogers. Let’s go onion with toasted sourdough boys, to the Public House!” for dipping. The Bear and Queens seemed to be incaThe groups made their way pable of agreeing upon anyacross the alley, and into thing other than the O’Shaughnessey’s, where an deliciousness of the food. attractive young girl at the host stand smiled and said After the last plate had been “How many?” cleared, Sam Schisler rose and spoke. Sam and Georgia looked at each other, and began to count “The eating is done, Jackson. the people in their party. MoLet the contest continue. We ments later, they conferred, shall fight to the death! Grand Georgia nodded at Sam, rrrowl!” said Sam as he stood, who spoke. and pulled apart a chair, intending to use the splintered “Two hundred seventy nine.” pieces as a weapon.

Ross, as she began to move her arms through the air in a bizarre fashion.

ginia’s spray-painted forehead. “We have to get out of here!”

“Hissss!” Was the general battle cry from the Queens. From here, things got ugly. June Bugg was tap dancing on Jerry Rhodes’s porno mustache, while mere inches away, Natasha West was being torn limb-from-limb by a ravenous David Bedd.

Suddenly, without warning, a strange tear appeared in midair, an eerie light emanating from it. It grew slightly larger, and a group of men in pink shirts carrying white faux rifles stepped through.

“Queens, Bears, assembled whiskey-filed Mic’s – we are the Flaggots, and as the only GLBT paramilitary group in existence, since time immemorial, we have been tasked with “Sandy, what’s happening?” maintaining peace between said Virginia West, as she peoples, and continuity to our “Holding Out For A Hero” timeline. This altercation is in kicked Michael Phalen across direct violation of temporal the room and into a stack of law, good sense, and the Irish car bombs on the bar. Stonewall accords of 1986. You Sandy Von Lipshitz shook her must cease your fighting imhead, and pulled out her iPad mediately or we will shave the from a case on her large white bears, and ask Max Factor to belt. Her hands moved quickly. entirely do away with panstick – even in Europe and on Drug“Sis, I’m not sure, but I think store.com. all of these fat people fighting in one place is creating a rift in There was a collective gasp, as the space time continuum. If I real fear crept into the faces of had to guess, the lot of us will the assembled crowd. be sucked into a time vortex and deposited at a point in the “This isn’t over, Jackson,” said future where a similar amount Sam, teeth clenched, as of obesity and violence exists. glanced at her, then back to If I had to make a guess, it the Flaggots. would be St. Patrick’s Day, 2011. “Far from it, Bear. These bitches be clawin’ your eyes “REALLY, Matt? Time travel? out one day, but today is not What is this? A shitty remake that day.” of the The Time Machine staring Guy Pearce?” “So it would seem. Bears, back The girl smiled again, and “Yea, grrr. Get it,” said Gabe to Exile. I need a cigarette and without pausing spoke “Right Mastin, as he carefully folded this way!” his napkin, stood, and drew a Sandy looked at Virginia seri- a long sit on that penis shaped planter in the back.” Sam fencing foil from his jacket, as- ously, and spoke in hushed turned to his waitress and The groups were led to long ta- suming an immaculate fenc- tones “V, that’s exactly what this is about to become.” pointed at his Pecan encrusted bles at the back of the Irishing stance. salmon and said, “Can I get themed restaurant, where the The color drained from Virthis to go?” server quickly brought out a “Get ‘em girls,” said Sonya As the fighting reached a fever pitch, the ground began to the shake, and the air in the room began to shimmer strangely.

O’Shaugnessey’s is located at 401 N Front St. You’ll find Chirs and the Irish Pirates there bright and early on St Patty’s Day.

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COMMUNITY RESOURCES SPONSORED BY MALCOLM RIGGLE & CMR INC.

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Are those people managing calls or just playing hacky sack?

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Oh good, a new hotel to Grindr our way through ; )

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tripping out

by Andrew Collins Long a magnet for gay tourists, especially in winter but increasingly year-round, Miami is the largest and most diverse of the three prongs that comprise South Florida’s GLBT vacation trinity (Fort Lauderdale and Key West being the others). And it’s really a few destinations in one: there’s Miami proper, a city of about 440,000, and across Biscayne Bay via a series of bridges - the separate city of Miami Beach (population 90,000), plus a slew of distinct neighboring communities that make up the nation’s seventhlargest metro area. Leisure travelers tend to focus on the beaches, and GLBT visitors have long been particular, drawn to the southern end of Miami Beach, aptly known as South Beach, which bulges with trendier-than-thou luxe hotels, throbbing nightclubs, scene-y restaurants and gorgeous beachfronts (and sometimes appears utterly devoid of bulging tummies - indeed, the South Beach reputation for perfect bodies is both a hallmark and a criticism). What’s terrific about Miami Beach as a vacation getaway is that it’s a 10 - to 15minute drive from museums and growing cultural offerings of Miami proper. And once you’re here, it’s not much more than an hour’s drive to reach the edge of Everglades National Park, the thriving gay scene in Fort Lauderdale and the upper reaches of the scenic Florida Keys (Key Largo, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park). There’s a lot more to see and do on a Miami vacation than merely sunning your buns by the ocean - although there’s plenty of opportunity for that, too. As you’re planning a trip here, keep a couple of resources in mind: The city’s Greater Miami Tourism has an excellent GLBT travel site (www.miamiandbeaches.com/visitors/gay.asp), which details recommended places to stay, eat, shop and play, along with relevant events. And right in the heart of South Beach, at 1130 Washington Avenue, the official Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce operates an LGBT Visitor Center (www.gogaymiami.com), where you can pick up advice on what to see and do - and where to stay - throughout Miami. Another point worth considering is that Miami is outlookcolumbus.com

one of the world’s leaders in gay and lesbian circuit parties and events, and many of these take place in late winter and early spring. One of the longest-running gay circuit events in the country, the Miami Winter Party Festival (www.winterparty.com), a fundraiser produced by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, takes places from March 2 through 7 and delights some 10,000 participants with some 20 parties, arts and cultural events, tours and cocktail receptions - there’s also a extensive roster of events geared just toward women, from a Latin dance party to a jazz brunch. The following month, the third annual Miami Beach Gay Pride parade and festival (www.miamibeachgaypride.com) draws hundreds of spectators to Ocean Drive - this is one of the more community-oriented, laid-back parties in South Beach, an excellent opportunity to mingle and party with locals, and check out the dozens of bands, vendors, and local organizations at the festival between Ocean Avenue and gay-popular 12th Street Beach. The organizers also run a Miami Beach Pride Cruise to the Bahamas, from April 18 through April 22 (www.pridecruise.com). Just after Pride, the increasingly prestigious Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival (www.mglff.com) comes to the area, presenting dozens of screenings and events from April 23 through May 2. Other noteworthy events of GLBT interest to keep in mind later in the year include Aqua Girl (www.aquagirl.org) women’s weekend in mid-May, Sizzle Miami (www.sizzlemiami.com), which caters to gay men of color, and Sizzle Her Miami (www.sizzleher.com), a concurrent women’s event, both of which are during Memorial Day weekend in late May; Miami Beach Bruthaz Black and Latino Gay Pride (miamibeachbruthaz.com) in mid-July; and the Miami White Party Week (www.whiteparty.org) in late November. Part of the fun of South Beach, beyond Ocean Drive and the sunny sands that flank it, is sauntering along the main north-south drag, Washington Avenue, a sometimes slick, sometimes raffish stretch of shops, hotels, and restaurants, plus the refreshingly sex-positive World Erotic Art Museum - the curious, extensive collection inside includes phallic fertility relics from 100 BC, ex-

Miami and South Beach

hibits on Lady Godiva and Catherine the Great, Tom of Finland figurines, and a magnificent four-poster bed, whose four “posts” are actually massive carved wooden penises.

Running perpendicular to Washington, the Lincoln Road also abounds with culinary and retail diversions - this pedestrian-only promenade is lined with palm-shaded sidewalk cafes and nightclubs. A full square mile of South Beach comprises the Art Deco District, a historic collection of some 800 prominently preserved buildings that showcase the sleek, distinctive style of 1910s to 1940s Miami. You can learn more about the city’s art deco heritage at the Wolfsonian Museum. Lincoln Road is also home to a pair of the most popular gay nightspots in South Beach, MOVA Lounge (www.movalounge.com), a classy cocktail bar, and Score (www.scorebar.net), an expansive place with a trendy see-and-be-seen crowd. Other gay social spots of note include Twist (www.twistsobe.com), an expansive twolevel video bar with a big patio out back that’s been de rigueur with revelers since it opened in 1993; and the Palace Cafe (www.palacesouthbeach.com), which overlooks Ocean Drive and is a favorite spot for lunch, cocktails, or dinner, especially after a visit to the gay beach at 12th Street. Trying to keep up with Miami’s, and especially South Beach’s, constantly evolving lodging landscape requires a scorecard - glitzy new hotels and resorts continue to open at a remarkable pace (this has even been true during the rough economy of the past couple of years). One of the most talked-about openings has been that of the Lords South Beach Hotel (www.lordssouthbeach.com), which opened inside a vintage art deco stunner (formerly the Nash). Reviews thus far have been mostly positive - the Lords has 52 rooms with simple but stylish white, yellow, and turquoise colors schemes and plenty of cushy amenities, from iPod stations to DVD players. The latest high-profile entry, opened in February 2011 behind the Versace Mansion in a pair of restored Collins Avenue deco gems, Dream South Beach (www.dreamsouthbeach.com) contains 108 chic rooms and suites, the full-service

Chris can’t wait to go to South Beach for Winter Party. Let’s hope he comes home.

Chopra Spa, and a superb restaurant - The Tudor - opened by vaunted chef Geoffrey Zakarian. Also near the beach and shopping, the Z Ocean Hotel (www.zoceanhotelsouthbeach.com) a relaxing low-rise that spans a block between Collins and Ocean avenues. Rooms in this contemporary, low-key property are richly appointed with large windows, expansive balconies, fine bathrooms, and cushy feather beds. In downtown Miami, the gay-popular Kimpton brand operates the swanky and chic Epic Hotel (www.epichotel.com), a soaring 411-high rise on the Miami River with expansive views of Biscayne Bay and the downtown skyline. This is a great base for exploring downtown, and it’s just 10 minutes by car to South Beach. Inside the hotel, you’ll find the excellent Exhale Spa, and a pair of superb restaurants, Area 31 - which overlooks the pool - and the sleek modern Japanese eatery from London, ZUMA. The area also has a few top-notch smaller properties catering significantly to gay and lesbian visitors. With a slightly quirky (but interesting) location just across the Miami River from downtown Miami’s retail, dining, and culture, the Miami River Inn (www.miamiriverinn.com) is a terrific, affordable option if you’re a fan of historic residential architecture - it occupies several stunningly restored early-20th-century houses and cottages, with a total of 40 rooms. Intimate options in South Beach include the beautifully kept, lesbian-owned SoBe You B&B (sobeyou.us), a 10-room stunner on a quiet street that’s within an easy walk of local nightlife and shopping; and the super-affordable Tropics Hotel and Hostel (www.tropicshotel.com), which has both private and dorm-style accommodations with among the lowest rates in greater Miami - it’s clean, friendly, and a short walk from the beach and Lincoln Road. For such a glamorous city, Miami offers a surprising value, even during the winter season - just book ahead, and expect higher rates, during some of the aforementioned festivals. Andrew Collins covers gay travel for the New York Timesowned website About.com and is the author of Fodor’s Gay Guide to the USA. He can be reached care of this publication or at OutofTown@qsyndicate.com._

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Chrisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clothes are dropped off at Rainbow Cleaners for cleaning. Chris clothes are taken off, however, at a variety of locations.

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by Dan Savage I am 50 and a lesbian. I have had a pretty active sex life for the last 30 years, including a couple of long-term relationships. For the last three years, I’ve been with a woman I love very much. We have amazing sexual chemistry - by far the best I have experienced. For the last two years, I have noticed that my clitoris is getting bigger. Not trans-man-takestestosterone big, but substantially bigger than it has ever been. I thought it was due to a big increase in sexual excitement, but it soon became clear that the enlargement was a permanent thing. It gets much more erect than it used to and often throbs or twitches after I come. No one’s complaining. I am enjoying the heightened sexual arousal, and my girlfriend (who is very GGG) is thrilled. But why/how is this happening? Could it get even bigger? And why now? I hit menopause seven years ago, so it’s not some weird hormone surge. Could our sexual connection have caused this all by itself? I don’t really want to ask my gynecologist, though I did notice her checking out my equipment with wide eyes at my last checkup. Stiffie Needs A Zipcode “I always like to hear from people who are satisfied with their sex lives and relationships,” says author, sex researcher, vulva-puppeteer, and archrival sex-advice columnist Debby Herbenick, and I have to agree. Most of our mail comes from people who are unhappy with their sex lives and/or dissatisfied with their relationships. It’s always nice to hear from folks who are having fun. What’s not so nice is that we sometimes have to tell happy-and-satisfied folks that something may be seriously wrong. “I would strongly encourage her to ask her gynecologist about her enlarged clitoris,” says Herbenick. “She should be very clear about the fact that it has increased in size. She should let her know when she first noticed this and roughly how much she thinks it’s increased in size.”

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If your gynecologist isn’t comfortable talking with you about your clit - if she just stands there gaping at it - get a new gynecologist. Because your megaclit could be a symptom of something very, very serious.

for me. I want to get a vaginoplasty to fit him, but I’ll have to wait till we’ve saved up enough money to pay for it. Please, Dan, tell me how to have hotter sex with a small dick and a shredded kitty.

“You need your doctor to examine your clit and rule out various medical conditions that could cause hormonal problems,” says Herbenick. “Sometimes these are benign health conditions; unfortunately, sometimes they include vulvar cancers, ovarian cancers, and adrenal cancers that, for example, may present with symptoms including an enlarged clitoris.”

Unforgiving

Some women believe their clitorises “grew” after menopause, but that’s not usually the case. When estrogen levels drop during menopause, other parts of the vulva - such as the labia - can become flatter or less prominent, which can in turn make the clitoris appear bigger. “However, she’s been in menopause for a long time,” says Herbenick, “and it sounds like the clitoral change happened well into menopause.” And amazing sex does not supersize clits: “High levels of arousal usually result in only a temporary swelling of the clitoris,” says Herbenick. So make another appointment to see your doctor, SNAZ, “and keep asking questions until she’s sure that medical conditions, such as cancers, have been ruled out,” urges Herbenick. And, again, if your gynecologist doesn’t want to discuss it or was too stupid to spot what could be a symptom of common lady-parts cancers (!), time to get a new gynecologist. My husband is beautiful, awesome, etc. Unfortunately, his dick is small. It wasn’t so bad our first few years together; he knows how to work what he’s got. But then I had a baby, and I tore. A few days later, my stitches tore. My six-week checkup turned out to be a poke in the stomach to confirm that my uterus was back in place, and when I asked why I couldn’t get restitched, the doctor told me, “Vaginas are very forgiving.” But a year later, Kegels aren’t helping and both of us are having trouble getting off. He enjoys anal sex, but it’s not really fulfilling

“Many women who have had multiple or traumatic births - and it sounds like she had a good deal of tearing - have some degree of prolapse,” says Herbenick. (A uterine prolapse, says the Wiki, “occurs when the female pelvic organs fall from their normal position, into or through the vagina.”) “If she did have prolapse,” says Herbenick, “she may be a candidate for anterior or posterior vaginal wall repair, which is quite similar to vaginal ‘rejuvenation’ surgeries, and then insurance may cover the surgery. “Some people will wildly disagree with me and say that women shouldn’t have surgery ‘to please their man,’ but I don’t see that here,” Herbenick adds. “I see two people who are married and want better sex, and she may have experienced some physical changes that have affected that. And there are ways to fix it.” Debby Herbenick is the associate director of the Center for Sexual Health Promotion at Indiana University and the author of Because It Feels Good: A Woman’s Guide to Sexual Pleasure and Satisfaction, a book that I strongly recommend even though Debby once attacked me with a vulva puppet in a room full of people. I live in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Grange, a local restaurant, has a cocktail called “GGGinger.” Is it possible for a cocktail to be GGG? And how does it feel to have inspired one? Curious Cocktail Connection A cocktail can’t be GGG, CCC, but a couple of cocktails - enough to take the edge off inhibitions, not so much to make consent unpossible can induce GGG. And, I’m saddened to report, the GGGinger’s Gs refer to three of the ginbased cocktail’s ingredients - ginger beer, candied ginger, and ginger syrup - and not to the

Do you think that bun even knows there’s anything in it?

Savage Love meme “good, giving, and game.” Still, Grange co-owner Brandon Johns is confident that his GGGingers have inspired GGG behavior all over Ann Arbor. “It’s been our most popular drink since we opened,” says Johns, “so it must be doing something right. We also do pitchers of them, and when a couple shares one of those - let’s just say that something good is bound to come of that.” And in other, more successful Savage Love memes… Former US senator and current presidential candidolt Rick Santorum “opened up” to Roll Call last week about his “longtime Google problem,” aka “the frothy mixture of lube and fecal matter that is sometimes the by-product of anal sex” and always the number-one search result when you Google the former senator’s last name. “It’s one guy,” Santorum told Roll Call. “You know who it is… It’s unfortunate that we have someone who obviously has some issues.” I do have issues - I have lots of issues - but I take particular issue with politicians who compare loving, stable same-sex relationships to “man on dog” sex, as Santorum has done, or who would ban same-sex marriage and adoptions by same-sex couples, as Santorum has promised to do if he gets elected president. But the lowercase s santorum campaign wasn’t “one guy.” A lot of people were involved - from the Savage Love reader who first suggested that we redefine your name to all the folks who’ve written about it over the years (thanks, Roll Call!) - just like a lot of people were involved in turning Rick Santorum out of office in 2006, an election he lost by an 18-point santorumslide. The website that’s still giving Rick Santorum fits - www.spreadingsantorum.com - hasn’t been updated since 2004. But we’re going to be relaunching the site in the next few weeks. Stay tuned! Find the Savage Lovecast (my weekly podcast) every Tuesday at thestranger.com/savage. mail@savagelove.net.

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by Jack Fertig Too smarty for the party. Some of you may know her as the saucy barista from Impero, others may know her as an NPR-giving, glass-working thrift ninja, but regardless of how you know this month’s local celebrity, Justina Smart, it’s clear she is anything but dumb. Born and raised in Athens, OH by a barber and a teacher (her parents, not random strangers – we should make that clear), this über-smart Athens townie graduated with an art degree from Ohio University (go Bobcats!) and a degree in glass from Hocking Col-

lege (go…something that’s an animal…or…whatever) all before the age of 21! It couldn’t have been all scholastics and ciphering though, because at some point along the way she found love -Justina met her boyfriend, the very attractive and talented Adam (he builds incredible furniture), at a hippy house party and they have “been together ever since.” The general consensus in the office is that she’s a girl we’d switch for, but the greater community’s consensus is that they hope her hot man Adam would switch for us… or maybe give the old two beer queer

thing a shot. We digress. This twenty-seven year old Virgo was briefly a gypsy, tramp, and thief, but six years ago gave up a life of victimless crime and burning outdoor couches to venture into the big city for the above mentioned Adam, the shopping, the doctors, and of course, employment. Her career track has been varied and interesting, ranging from being a hostess at the Happy Greek (She was NOT in their basement mortgage department), the much venerated Luck Brothers coffee in Grandview, Mad for Mod vintage in Clintonville (still there) and of course Impero. Her real passions however, are her art and thrifting. Justina’s stunning work in glass has recently focused on recreations of pieces from Look Magazine, and have sold like hotcakes! Justina’s love of antiques and thrifting, and a discerning (albeit shifty) eye for style has led to her hocking her wares on etsy (www.etsy.com/shop/JustinaSmartypants). Here you will find incredible pieces from the nineteen-twenties through the nineteen-sixties (Chad had his eye on some red leather cowboy boots) at ridiculously reasonable prices. When not working in glass, sorting through dead peoples panties, pouring coffee, or seeking out antiques with Adam (he calls her ‘meatball’ because of her Italian heritage, btw), our Smarty Pants can be found drinking a glass of single malt Glenmorangie, strumming on her banjo, and considering where she’ll get her next degree (she’s thinking OSU). If you see her, buy her one (a Glenmorangie, not a banjo or OSU), and ask her to spin you a yarn about the dangers of high crime in the furniture world – it’s super shocking. We love Justina. Did we mention that?

a n i t s Ju 58

mar 2011

Open yourself, Taurus!

make it more efficient. Innovate your beauty and health Venus entering Aquarius opens regimen. Novelty will keep you new aesthetic opportunities more involved. Dance classes and challenges. Be daring and are fun and would introduce adventurous in your own pres- you to new people. Try someentation and your choices for thing very wild and different! entertainment and art. The North Node entering Sagittar- VIRGO (August 23 - September ius opens new challenges to 22): Your creativity is opening look past apparently logical up in dazzling new directions. details to the fuller picture. Play with new ideas and imBoth are leaving Capricorn, so ages. The urge to be the best break out of old problems with or to utilize these expressions new perspectives. professionally should take a backseat to expressing youthPISCES (February 19 - March ful visions and affirming your 19): Your social instincts are roots. especially sharp. Resist the tendency to fall back into the LIBRA (September 23 - Octopartying embrace of your ber 22): Call your mother, home and community. Netgrandmother, an aunt or a work! Hang out with people wise old woman in your comwho can help you get ahead. munity. What starts out as a simple conversation can reARIES (March 20 - April 19): veal a lot about your family Being a bit more charming and and more about yourself. Keep innovative are great ways to it simple, direct and personal. promote yourself. The energy is there; take advantage of it. SCORPIO (October 23 - NoDress for the job you want, not vember 21): Grab keyboard or the one you have, but don’t shy pen and paper; liberate your away from your own sense of mind writing whatever occurs style! to you. Go for pretty, not logical: poetry, songs, free associTAURUS (April 20 - May 20): ation. Scrapbooking works. Open yourself to new art, new Review it a few days later and movies, new experiences. Ask see what you can learn about yourself what’s the most beau- yourself. tiful country in the world (besides your own). Do some SAGITTARIUS (November 22 research and expand your December 20): Set aside some aesthetic vision to open up a money for a spontaneous inmuch deeper sense of yourdulgence or impulsive whim. self. Resist the urge to splurge on anyone else. This treat is for GEMINI (May 21- June 20): New you! Get yourself something sensual/erotic exploration outré, so wrong that it’s right! won’t just spice up your sex life but help you understand CAPRICORN (December 21 where your relationship needs January 19): Take time out - a to go - or where one should long walk or a spiritual retreat get started. Discuss it with - to think about who you really your partner; invite your honey are deep inside and who you to surprise you in bed. want to be. Then consider how best to make your outside CANCER (June 21- July 22): match your inside. Start a new conversation with your partner about old chalAQUARIUS (January 20 - Februlenges. A breakthrough will ary 18): Liberate your past to likely require some risks and get a clearer lead on your fuexperimentation, possibly but ture. Old traumas contain lesnot probably sexual. Review sons, but better yet review how the two of you share or di- your earliest feelings of love vide tasks. and beauty. Sure, age brings disappointments. So what? You LEO (July 23 - August 22): Re- can still keep those innocent decorate your workplace to ideals alive. Jack Fertig, a professional astrologer since 1977 teaches at the International Academy of Astrology www.astrocollege.com. He can be reached for personal or business consultations at www.starjack.com,

The office has come to a consensus, we’d all switch for Justina... to decaf that is.

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Network is now is better with text alerts! Text â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;NetworkCbusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to 90210 to get event reminders and personalized name tags.

mar 2011

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