Equal april 2014 issuu

APR 2014

What’s in

Your

Basket?

Spring treats th at will lighten up any April shower

Let’s get Dirty pruning bushes

Paris Magnifique Ooh la la

Springto faFshoiornward in

r Full Colowith generosity

Local artists bloom

Always Aware self defense tips

Lee Oleinick has been recognized by Barron’s as one of the Top 1,200 Financial Advisors in the U.S. (2014) and as one of the Top 1,000 Financial Advisors in the U.S. (2012, 2013) For leading in a world that has changed.

For perfecting the art of listening.

For proactively responding to clients’ needs.

For building strong relationships.

We applaud Lee Oleinick and his most significant accomplishment— winning clients’ trust.

Advice you can trust starts with a conversation.

Lee Oleinick Senior Vice President–Wealth Management lee.oleinick@ubs.com Walnut Wealth Management UBS Financial Services Inc. 5600 Walnut Street Pittsburgh, PA 15232 412-665-9914 800-458-2224 ubs.com/team/walnut

UBS was named to the Human Rights Campaign's Best Places to Work list in 2013

We will not rest

Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” is based on assets under management, revenue and quality of practices. As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, we offer both investment advisory services and brokerage accounts. Advisory services and brokerage services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate contracts. It is important that clients

CONTRIBUTORS & THANK YOU’S

G. Michael Beigay is a freelance photographer and special education professional for Allegheny Intermediate Unit. His photography has provided educational tools to aid students with cognitive disabilities. He also has worked with a media specialist at his LGBT-friendly church to develop various multi-media productions.

Michael has shot for Cue, Whirl, and now Equal.

He is one of the hosts for G2H2 and also the main photographer.

Mike Buzzelli is a standup comedian and author. His book, Below Average Genius, a collection of humor pieces culled from his weekly humor column at the ObserverReporter newspaper, is available at Amazon.com.

Chrissy Costa is a standup comedian, actress and freelance writer. She studied sketch comedy at Chicago’s famed Second City. Her work has been featured in several local LGBT publications and you may recognize her from her column, “Last Woman Standing”.

She’s a fan of activism, big earrings and causing an awkward silence.

Philip Ezzo, one of the tallest men in Pittsburgh, is currently a pastry cook at the Duquesne Club downtown. He has been a writer and columnist in LGBT publications for over four years. He is known for his sense of humor and charming personality. In his spare time Philip is a chapter leader with Gay for Good, Pittsburgh chapter, where he is an outreach coordinator.

Mara Rago specializes in portraits, fine art, pets, events, model portfolios, legal, and corporate photography. She has a studio in the East End of Pittsburgh and shoots instudio as well as on location. Photography is Mara’s life. It’s a passion. Capturing visions in her little black box is a gift and, every day, she is grateful.

Jay P. Obertance is a food,

Stacey Federoff is a Sutersville, PA native, Penn State alumna, and reporter living in Park Place near Regent Square. She has written for The Daily Collegian, The Chautauquan Daily, and Trib Total Media. She loves music, vinyl records, coffee, running, and volunteerism.

quality, and entertainment addict; a gourmand/chef with a passion for fine dining and a love of company to

enjoy and share it with. As his motto goes, “Life is too short to eat mediocre food.”

Jonathan Fobear is a native of Cass City, MI. For 12 years he has been an art director branding nonprofits, corporations, destinations, and city festivals. He has worked with clients as big as The Dept of Agriculture and NASA and as small as his mom & dad. Jonathan has presented branding workshops both in Pennsylvania and New York and currently resides in Pittsburgh’s South Side.

Guest contributors: Diane Anderson Michael Barone Michael David Battle John Britt Christine Bryan Joe Corcoran Jason Peck Margie Rodebaugh Rick Sicilio Joseph B. Smith Hope Vannucci Masha Vereshchenko

Are YOU interested in writing for Equal Magazine?

Email joek@equalmagazine.com 4

E q u a l M a g a z i n e. o rg

Getting a handle on your

coverage. And

maximizing

your budget.

HEALTH PLAN KNOW-HOW MADE EASY With a phone call or an online visit with Member Services, Highmark can help you easily understand exactly how your health plan coverage works. Which means you’ll be able to make the best decisions for yourself and your family.

And with Highmark’s online resources like our “Compare Costs and Save” tool, you’ll become an expert at saving on your out-of-pocket expenses, including prescriptions, procedures and more. So you can keep your family — and your budget — as healthy as can be.

highmarkbcbs.com

Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Coverage subject to the terms of your benefits program.

WITH LOVE

Dear Sweet Pittsburgh Welcome to our April issue! It looks as though we have finally broken free of winter’s frigid grip for good (no fooling). Spring is in the air as we begin to come out of hibernation, shed layers, and start to reconnect with friends, outdoor activities and sunshine.

Let Equal Magazine help guide you to some of this month’s can’t miss activities and stories that have us talking including a cover story about what you might be packing in your basket (think “tisket, tasket, Easter, and picnic baskets”). We spring forward with a fashion piece on page 30 that offers tips and trends to help keep you looking fresh as a daisy and on point for warmer weather with advice for anyone looking to pop a little color this season.

We explore delicious food for thought with an “eggcellent” idea of what to do with your left over Easter eggs (no yolking). We also focus on a few area artists who have turned their passion for creating art into creating change for our community on page18.

You may want to pack a bag for a little spring break as our travel section is “c’est vraiment magnifique” and puts the gay in “gay Paree” on page 34. If you are looking to stay on home soil, our friends at Phipps Conservatory have seasonal gardening tips on page 14 to give you the home field advantage and help you hit pay dirt.

The popular series: Hot Girl Reads a Book on page 46, and Black Gay Pittsburgh on page 28 return this month with first person contributions from our community. We explore puppy love and have fetched information about balls, sports, community events and last month’s Delta Foundation “Gayla.”

It’s hard to believe that we are only weeks away from our special May/June double Pride issue with tons of information you will need to plan your Pittsburgh Pride experience. If you are a business that could benefit from direct marketing to the LGBT community in our mega keepsake issue, now is your chance to put down roots and watch your investment bloom with pride for our ever-growing, full color LGBT community. Don’t miss the big announcement of this years line up of entertainers and get the full schedule of activities and events that the Delta Foundation will bring us as we all come together to celebrate PRIDE in the streets and on our three rivers in June. Contact us at info@equalmagazine.com for details.

Thanks for getting out, being out, and allowing Equal Magazine to come along for the ride as we continue to strive to bring you the very best our region has to offer.

We look forward to seeing you all this season and remember: LGBT Visibility Everywhere.

Be well,

Joe King Editor-in-Chief 6

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WHAT PAGE IS THAT ON?

18

FEATURES

32

APRIL

28

18

Persad and ABC’s: Art+ Billy = Change

20

Delta Foundation Awards Lambda Giving Grants

28

Black & Gay in Pittsburgh: 3rd in a series

32

LGBT Scenes Left on the Cutting Room Floor

IN (ALMOST) EVERY ISSUE 10 Calendar 12 What’s Gay and Going on?

14 How does your garden grow?

15 Equality Gayla wrap-up 16 Self Defense 101 22 Food: What’s in your Easter basket?

25 Queer Seen 26 Janet Mock brings #GirlsLikeUs to Pittsburgh 30 Fashion: What’s in and what’s out 34 Travel: A visit to Gay Paree 36 Get Moving: A Guide to local Sports Leagues 38 Faith: Being Gay and Christian 40 You and your Dog 42 Humor: Hey Lesbians, Let it Go 44 Map 46 Hot Girl Reads a Book

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Subscriptions start as low as

73¢

per issue

A subscription to Equal Magazine would make the perfect gift for you or someone in your life.

Plus it’s the only way to guarantee that you’ll get it every month!

$10 = 11 issues ($0.91 an issue) $18 = 22 issues ($0.82 an issue) $24 = 33 issues ($0.73 an issue) Subscribe today at deltafoundation.us/equal-magazine 8

E q u a l M a g a z i n e. o rg

Publisher: The Delta Foundation of Pittsburgh Board Members Gary A. Van Horn Jr. President Louise F. Stutler Vice President Jim Sheppard Secretary Bart A. Rauluk Treasurer Michael G. Bartley Daniel M. Catanzaro Mary Jo Geyer Steven. R. Herforth Charles W. Honse* Patrick J. Journet William R. Kaelin* Peter J. Karlovich Charles C. Lukehart August “Buzz” C. Pusateri Brian J. Stankavich Donnie R. Thinnes* Charles P. Tierney*

Joe King Art Director Jonathan Fobear Emotional Support Mark Doyal Cookies

For questions, comments, and advertising inquiries, please email info@ equalmagazine.com EQUAL Magazine PO Box 100057 Pittsburgh, PA 15233

*Emeritus Board Members

Editor-in-Chief

The mission of the Delta Foundation is to be a vigilant catalyst for change that produces increased opportunities and a high quality of life for the LGBT community.

Opinions and claims made by advertisers are those of the advertisers ONLY. Equal accepts no liability for claims made by advertisers. All rights reserved. ©2014 Delta Foundation of Pittsburgh.

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Apr STAY BUSY

5-8

Thurs - Sat

1 Tues

3-5 Thurs - Sat

A MEMORY, A MONOLOGUE, A RANT AND A PRAYER Presented by the Garden of

5

Sat

Miss & Mr. Laurel Highlands Pageant 2014

Kelly Strayhorn Theater $15 kelly-strayhorn.org

LIVIN’ OUT LOUD

11

Fri

7-10 PM Homewood-Brushton YMCA Suggested donation $5

5 Sat

Sean Dorsey Dance

“The Secret History of Love”

Peace Project & YWCA

presented by the Pittsburgh Opera Benedum Center trustarts.org

PUB CRAWL Presented by Impulse Pittsburgh

The Link, Hermanie thelinkniteclub.com

12

Sat

featuring Deadbeat (Berlin), Container (TN), James Gyre 9 PM Cruze Bar Strip District

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9 PM facebook.com/ impulsepittsburgh

13 Sun

STEEL CITY STONEWALL DEMOCRATS ENDORSEMENT

(THE KIKI BALL)

8 PM-2 AM $25 ($15 before 10 PM) Andy Warhol Museum warhol.org

DOWNTOWN

1-4 PM Cruze Bar Strip District steel-city.org

3 Thurs

4

Fri

with Detox

Starring Thea Trix, Jezelle Van Cartier, Veronica Lustt

from RuPaul’s Drag Race 11 PM Cavo Strip District flavorus.com/vaindetox

11 PM Cruze Bar Strip District

7 Mon

Cruze Bar Strip District

8 Tues

Liz Callaway

9 Wed Town Hall Pittsburgh Ballroom Community:

Meet & Greet with Janet Mock

Presented by the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust 7:30 PM Cabaret at Theater Square trustarts.org

One Year Later

Tana Ethiopian Cuisine $75 (includes dinner, autographed book, photo & VIP bag) showclix.com/event/ MeetJanetMock

r e f e e R Madness Fri

25

Sat

Fetish 101: Where Eroticism, Imagination & Fantasy meet.

8 PM

FIRST FRIDAY WITH KIERRA DARSHELL

Lola LaCroix’s VAIN

18

5

Fri

6-11:30 PM Project Silk 810 Penn Avenue Downtown

26

Sat

iCandy Pgh’s

Wet T-shirt BARK SHADYSIDE Contest PUP WALK

The life of an arTisT - beTween The worlds of The living and The dead

Presented by Hot Metal Hardware Door 9 PM; show 11 PM Cattivo 146 44th Street Lawrenceville

26, 29

Philip Glass’s Sat, Tues

8 PM Cruze Bar Strip District

9 AM to 2 PM thinkshadyside.com

27 Sun

30 Wed

HELLO DONNY! MUSICAL THEATER SING ALONG

Presented by the Pittsburgh Opera 8 PM Benedum Center

WITH PLANNED PARENTHOOD

Backstage Bar at Theater Square 9:30 PM trustarts.org

Pittsburgh Opera Strip District deltafoundation.us/tickets

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EVENTS

What’s Gay and Goin’ on?

Photos by G. Michael Beigay B*tches Ball @ Cruze Bar

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Lez Liquor Hour @ Up Modern Kitchen

Equal Launch Party @ P Town

iIrish @ Cruze Bar

Suzanne Westenhoefer @ Cruze Bar

G2H2 @ Rivers Casino

Unexpected Broadway: A Cabaret by Renaissance City Choirs

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GARDENING

PLANT LOCAL

e c i o j e R

IT’S TIME TO GET

DIRTY

By Margie Radebaugh,

Director of Horticulture and Education Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Spring is in the air – finally! This means it’s time to get back out into your garden and get to work. While you won’t want to start actually digging in the soil until it dries out a bit (to test it, pick up a handful and squeeze; if it oozes between your fingers, it is too wet) there are still plenty of other tasks you can tackle now to get ready for warmer weather.

First, you can prune shrubs before new growth begins. For springbloomers, such as azaleas and rhododendrons, wait until after they flower. Most shrubs should be pruned by thinning. Begin by removing the tallest branches back to their point of origin on the parent stem, or back to the ground, to maintain their natural shape. Cut

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the oldest 1/3 of stems of red and yellow twig dogwoods back to the ground to encourage new growth, which will have the best coloration next winter.

Deciding what to plant can be overwhelming. Each year, horticulturists at Phipps choose 10 plants that are sustainable options for gardeners in the Pittsburgh region.

Selected for their non-invasive habits, as well as their resistance to disease and insects once established, these plants require minimal watering and fertilization.

This year’s Top 10 Sustainable Plants list includes a variety of trees, shrubs and perennials that would make a great addition to your landscape. Plus, a number of them are even deer resistant.

Blackgum Tree Nyssa sylvatica

Katsura Tree

Cercidiphyllum japonicum

Common Witch-hazel Hamamelis virginiana

Sweetshrub

Calycanthus ‘Hartlage Wine’

Red Chokeberry

Aronia arbutifolia ‘Brilliantissima’

Panicle Hydrangea

Next, cut back perennials that were not tended to back in the fall, being careful not to damage new growth.

Then, gently rake leaves and other debris from flower beds, and add it to your compost pile. If you don’t already have a compost pile, now is a good time to start one.

Hydrangea paniculata ‘Quick Fire®’

As soon as the soil is workable, you can begin to plant pea seeds in your vegetable garden and sweet pea seeds in your flower beds. Pansies can also be set out in containers or placed directly into the ground.

These beauties not only enjoy the cool spring weather but also provide a welcome splash of color after a long, weary winter!

Stachys officinalis ‘Hummelo’

Joe Pye Weed

Eupatorium ‘Little Joe’

Blazing Star Liatris spicata

Beardtongue

Penstemon digitalis ‘Husker Red’

Betony

Seventy plants have been chosen since the program began, providing an exceptional palette of plants to choose from for a more sustainable landscape. For more details on these plants and where to buy them, visit phipps.conservatory.org/project-greenheart/green-heart-resources/top-tensustainable-plants.aspx

FANCY PANTS

On Saturday, February 22, the 1st annual Equality Gayla was held at the beautiful Carnegie Music Hall to benefit the Delta Foundation. A “who’s who” from the LGBT community along with their allies were on hand to hear the amazing Bernadette Peters perform. The party began with a VIP reception beautifully decorated by BCP Productions, followed by a delicious dinner coordinated by Bill Jones and his staff at Parkhurst Dining. Awards were given to Lambda Foundation board members along with some inspring words by the legendary Herb Beatty, Bill Kaelin and Buzz Pusateri. But it was the belle of Broadway...Bernadette Peters who opened her concert with “Let Me Entertain You,” and did she ever for 75 minutes, much to the delight of the nearly 400 who gave her a standing ovation.

Following the concert, the crowd enjoyed a delicious array of desserts and closed the night with dancing to the discoinspired sounds of DJ H, formerly of dance-club Heaven.

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SAFETY

SELF DEFENSE being safe and avoiding violence in dangerous situations

By Stacey Federoff Nobody wins in a fight, especially when it’s directed at a member of the LGBT community and fueled by discrimination and fear.

In a training facility in the Strip District with matcovered floors and walls, about 20 people took part in a self-defense class in March specifically for transgender people.

Led by instructors Jonah Thompson and David Reese, the five-hour workshop at Stout Fitness Pittsburgh organized by TransPride Pittsburgh and the GLCC first discussed how to best avoid physical situations, then practiced defense 16

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techniques to use if the interaction would turn violent.

Thompson, with a military and law enforcement background, stressed the importance of good decision-making leading up to a situation that could turn physical.

“There’s no good reason to get into that physical altercation,” he told the participants.

“Sometimes they happen, but that should be extraordinarily rare. If they do, be violent enough, fast enough to break that initial contact, and get away.”

Lucas, a 35-year-old trans participant, says he

was glad situational awareness – noticing the signs of a hostile environment or dangerous situation and avoiding them – was stressed by the instructors.

“A lot of people, the minute they’re threatened, they’re going to try to fire back and I think that escalates the situation, so learning how to avoid is probably a good idea,” Lucas says.

He was glad TransPride organized the event as a part of the effort to bring together the Pittsburgh trans community.

Claire, a 42-year-old trans person, says although she has had mostly positive responses to her transition, she wanted to learn proactive

steps to avoid situations where people resort to violence out of insecurity and fear.

“Depending on where we’re at in our transition, it can be obvious that there’s something different about us and as a general rule, I don’t think people like differences,” she says.

TransPride plans to continue hosting the classes, possibly four times per year or during the group’s conference in September, to encourage those proactive steps, says Donna Christopher, a member of the steering committee.

“Trans people have one of the highest rates of violence committed against them in the country and the world,” she says. “The idea of this class was to give people options on getting away, protecting themselves, and learning how to make themselves aware of their surroundings.

There’s a lot more that can be taught, but this is the basics to get you started.”

Situations between acquaintances are also different than those that spontaneously erupt with strangers.

Thompson and Reese discussed the importance of safe dating and avoiding completely anonymous situations by alerting at least one trusted friend of the place and time of a meeting, even checking in at the end of the night.

“You don’t have to be out and about to the entire world – what you choose to do is your business -- but somewhere along the way, at least build that relationship with somebody that you feel comfortable with by saying ‘hey, I am meeting this person,’” Thompson says.

Participants practiced physical self-defense techniques like ways to defend yourself after a fall, how to best block swings, how to use pepper spray and how to handle groups.

The best defense is not to engage the other person but to remove yourself from the situation entirely when possible, so that physical fights are only the worst-case scenario, Thompson says.

“Basic self-defense is basic self-defense. It doesn’t matter who you are,” he says.

Tips & Tricks Practice being deliberately aware of your surroundings, especially when alone, at night, or in unfamiliar surroundings. This means staying off your phone, no texting, and no headphones. Seeing, anticipating, and avoiding potential situations is the best defense.

Commit to avoiding spontaneous conflict, especially in social situations. Nobody wins an argument in a bar or on a sidewalk. You can only control your own actions; what you see as a verbal disagreement can become physical whether you want it to or not.

Tell someone where you are going and who you are meeting. This applies in all sorts of situations, from jogging to dating. If you run or walk alone, make sure your route is left somewhere others can find it; if you meet up with someone new for a date make sure you tell a friend when and where you are going and contact details for the person you are meeting. Set a time to check in. A quick text, “hey, going for a run on my normal route, call you when I get back” is a huge help in any kind of emergency.

There are no magic talismans. If you chose to carry a tool for self-defense, commit to understanding and learning all about it. Just having it with you or nearby does you no good and creates a false sense of confidence, a false sense that is greatly outweighed by the physical, legal, and financial liabilities. There is no substitute for training and education.

Never walk while speaking on your cell phone. If you need to make a call, stop into a safe environment, and put your back to a wall.

Don’t walk on the street with headphones. You can’t hear someone coming up behind you.

Always have your keys in your pocket as you approach your door.

Don’t be the person that has to fish for their keys!

Know what things you have with you that can be used as a weapon - before you need to use it. If you choose to carry pepper spray (or ANY weapon), practice using it.

Always open doors using your shoulder; look who is behind you. Never have your back to anyone!

Never stand in the back of the elevator trapping yourself. Stand near the buttons where you are in control.

Try to consolidate your bags into one big bag. Always keep your hands free to use.

Walk with one hand in your pocket.

Bad guys don’t know if you have a weapon ready to use.

Pay attention and make eye contact.

If you let them know “I see you” you are telling them I can pick you out of a line-up.

This doesn’t mean glare at people either.

Do not be afraid to use your VOICE. It is the best weapon you have!

If someone mugs you for your wallet, jewelry, or bag always throw it past them so they turn to get it and you can run the other way.

If someone wants to buy you a drink, keep it in the clear. White wine, clear cocktails, and Corona’s are hard to drop drugs in undetected.

Gabrielle Rubin is the Founder/Course Instructor for Female Awareness Self-Defense. For more info, visit femaleawareness.com.

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SPOTLIGHT ORGANIZATION Photo courtesy of Lila Hirsh-Broad

Art for

Change

By John Britt Founded in 1972, Persad is the nation’s second oldest licensed counseling center for the LGBT community. Created as an affirming counseling center to help LGBT people cope with social discrimination, it’s a place where the community can receive professional counseling services without prejudice about their identity.

In 1988 as the LGBT community was being impacted by HIV and AIDS, the organization decided to hold a fund raising event called “Art for AIDS.” Designed to raise money to help cover the cost of services, the event was held at the Mendelson Gallery in Shadyside.

According to Bob McGrogan, Development Director, “As people begin to live longer with HIV and AIDS and our services become much broader, we felt it was necessary to extend the reach of the event and in 2006, the name was changed to “Celebrate Life, Celebrate Art.” The fund raising 18

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Hosted by Billy Porter

event now helps to provide free care services to all in need.

After 2013’s successful event, the name was changed to “Art for Change” to reflect the concept that by working together towards positive change, the overall wellbeing of the LGBT community and those affected by HIV make the community stronger, safer and healthier. Other changes for 2014 include moving the event to the Wyndham Grand Hotel in downtown Pittsburgh.

Co-Chair Victoria Bradley Morris added “We’re celebrating a lot of newness this year, starting with our ‘I want to change...’ t-shirt campaign. Nailing down the Wyndham as a our new venue is also very cool — we’ll be in a ballroom, overlooking the rivers, and the live auction will be right in the middle of the action this year.

Best of all, I’m stomping my heels under my desk every day over the excitement that Billy Porter is coming!“ Over the years, the event has raised nearly four million dollars,

including $270,000 last year. The event depends on the talent of LGBT and LGBT-friendly artists, all of whom contribute their time and talents.

A few of the participating artists this year include Lila Hirsh-Broad, who said “I love Persad and all the wonderful people involved, and I have believed in their mission for many years. I love the kindness and consideration they give all their clients. I was motivated to get involved 30 years ago because the money Persad raised all went to research. I’m hoping that future endeavors for Persad, and the researchers they help fund, are as bright as my time has been making art for them. “ Lucy Stewart, who is the Associate Curator of Education at the Carnegie Museum of Art, has been involved with the event since 1996 both as

a contributor of artwork and a volunteer. “I always find time to submit a piece of my artwork to the auction. I was art acquisition chair for two years and served on the committee for many years. I have always had LGBT friends and have seen many friends deal with the unfortunate hardships of families that don’t understand. I have also lost friends to AIDS. It was never a question if I would help a fantastic organization like Persad, it was just a question of when and how much.”

Michael Lotenero has been working professionally as a multidisciplinary designer and artist for almost 20 years. His clients have included The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, Nintendo, IBM, Lowes, Sony Pictures and Panasonic and his work has been honored with many awards. “I’ve participated in the auction for over 15 years

because the work Persad does is close to my heart. The LGBT community has also always been a huge supporter of mine, and I am more than happy to give back in any way that I can. I’m very proud to be a part of the benefit every year.”

For more information or to purchase tickets to “Art for Change,” visit persadcenter.org

Lila Hirsh-Broad

Michael Lotenero

YOU’VE GOT THE POWER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE. It’s everyday heroes like YOU that help us do what we do.

I S I V

T

O F. T R A G P .

W W W To find out how you can help us

FIND IT. TREAT IT. BEAT IT.

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SPOTLIGHT ORGANIZATION

The gifts of growth.

Delta Foundation announces its recipients

By Michael Buzzelli “Happiness exists on Earth, and it is won through a prudent exercise of reason, knowledge of the harmony of the universe, and the constant practice of generosity.” – Jose Marti The Delta Foundation of Pittsburgh, the leading LGBT organization in Western Pennsylvania, has recently announced the recipients of its first round of grant applications through their Lambda Giving program.

The recipients were Persad, ALPHA Pittsburgh, Shepherd Wellness, Marc Wagner, Garden of Peace Project, Northside Common Ministries, Pittsburgh Playwrights Theater, Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation and Suzanne Kinsky.

Each grant recipient is using the funds to finance their on-going programs, new programs and projects.

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Persad Center is a human service organization whose mission is to improve the well-being of the LGBT community, and the HIV/AIDS community. Betty Hill, Executive Director at Persad, said, “Persad is pleased to be one of the Delta Foundation’s grantees this year. The money from its Lambda Giving program is supporting our new services for individuals who are HIV+ to help maintain their commitment to their own health and wellness.”

She added, “We appreciate the long legacy of support that our programs and services have received. It’s been an important resource providing support when few other foundations would consider gifts to LGBT-related projects.”

Shepherd Wellness Community was another one of the grant recipients. Scott Peterman, Executive Director of Shepherd Wellness Community said, “Shepherd Wellness is grateful for the support of the Delta Foundation to help underwrite our HIV/AIDS wellness classes.”

He added, “With this funding, a variety of classes and social support programs will be offered that will help to alleviate isolation and loneliness, provide a social support network, offer health information, and provide opportunities for our members to improve their physical fitness and strengthen their immune systems. The support of the Delta Foundation through Lambda Giving will make a significant difference in the lives of hundreds of men and women living with HIV/AIDS in our region.”

Several other organizations received money from the grant.

ALPHA, which stands for AIDS Leadership for Prevention and Health Awareness, was also one of the grant recipients. ALPHA Pittsburgh is a group of HIV+ men and their allies who are dedicated to increasing HIV/AIDS awareness in Southwestern Pennsylvania. The group strives to reduce stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS and empower the LGBT community to reduce homophobia and promote wellness. The grant will be used to send two delegates to the

AIDSWatch conference held in Washington, D.C. The Garden Of Peace Project is a community of LGBT folks and allies committed to encouraging community building, restoration, and outreach. Garden of Peace Project was founded to increase the emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being of all people, including the most vulnerable and marginalized populations, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression of Southwestern Pennsylvania. The grant money will help to support the “Livin’ Out Loud” event featuring GLSEN, Willie Gee’s Fasion, and True T entertainment as partners, and STD and HIV testing, as well as professionals teaching individuals how to advocate for themselves.

Northside Common Ministries was established in 1982. They operate the Pleasant Valley Emergency Shelter for men, the Northside Community Food Pantry and a Permanent Housing Program for men with disabilities.

They are one of the only shelters in the area that focuses on the inclusion of the LGBT community. The grant funding will be used to film and distribute a training module to

comparable organizations for further education on meeting the needs of the LGBT community, particularly in shelters.

Pittsburgh Playwrights Theatre Company was another grant recipient. The theater’s mission is to develop and showcase the work of local playwrights, from new talent to accomplished masters like August Wilson and George S. Kaufman. Mark Clayton Southers, director, playwright and founder of Pittsburgh Playwrights Theatre Company, said, “The Pittsburgh Playwrights Theatre Company is grateful for the support received from the Delta Foundation. These funds will be used for “Acting Out,” which produces LGBTthemed plays each year and gives local artists a chance to display their theatrical skills through storytelling.”

Other grantees include ALPHA Pittsburgh, Marc Wagner, Suzanne Kinsky, and Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation who will use the funds to purchase rapid HIV testing for homeless youth and services for uninsured LGBT youth.

said, “We are honored to have been asked to oversee the awarding of the Lambda Foundation grants and scholarships moving forward. We have many organizations doing great things, and we are happy to be a part of helping these folks make our community better for everyone.”

Applications for the second grant cycle round are due by August 1.

The Delta Foundation will also award the William Nist Scholarship to a high school senior or college student who has made a positive contribution toward the LGBT community. The application deadline for this scholarship is May 1.

For more information, visit deltafoundation.us/ lambdagiving

Delta Foundation President Gary Van Horn

PiTTSBuRGH DANCE COuNCil PRESENTS

WAYNE MCGREGOR | RANDOM DANCE SAT, APR 26, 2014 • 8 PM • BYHAM THEATER

SEE VIDEO

TrustArts.org/random

Wayne McGregor’s unparalleled, unique palette of movement comes to life with 10 remarkable dancers and breathtaking visual design.

TrustArts.org/dance 412.456.6666

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FEATURE

WHAT’S IN YOUR

By Jay Obertance

Easter has always had a close association with food. The word comes from the name for the Anglo-Saxon goddess of light and spring, Eostre, and special dishes were cooked in her honor so that the year would be endowed with fertility. As the first major holiday of spring, everything centers around new birth, and eggs, green vegetables, and spring lamb figure prominently in the cuisine. And the “forbidden” foods of Lent -- butter, eggs, sugar and cream -- reappear in an infinite variety of rich Easter breads.

This month I’m here to share with you two classic Easter recipes: Easter sweet bread and deviled eggs.

Being of Italian descent, bread continues to be a staple at any social gathering at my house and with my family. Think about bread 22

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for a moment. It’s the most common staple originating from the most common and inexpensive ingredients. And it is a food we all relate to and a food that we can share as we sit around the table enjoying a meal.

Plus the smell of fresh-baked bread would put a Yankee Candle to shame!

Sweet Bread Recipe 2/3 cup whole milk 5 Tbsp. sugar, divided 1-3/4 tsp. active dry yeast 2 large eggs, room temperature 2-3/4 cups unbleached, all-purpose flour 1 tsp. kosher salt 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into 1-inch pieces, room temperature, plus 1/2 Tbsp., melted

Heat milk in a small saucepan over medium heat or in a microwave until it reaches 110°– 115°. Transfer milk to a 2-cup measuring cup and stir in 1 Tbsp. sugar. Sprinkle yeast over milk and whisk to blend. Let sit until yeast is foamy, about 5 minutes. Add eggs and whisk until smooth.

Combine remaining 4 Tbsp. sugar, flour, and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Add milk mixture. With mixer running, add 1/2 cup room temperature butter, 1 piece at a time, blending well between additions.

Mix on medium speed for 1 minute. Knead on medium-high speed until dough is soft and silky, about 5 minutes.

Brush a medium bowl with melted butter and place dough in bowl. Brush top of dough with remaining melted butter and cover with plastic wrap. Let dough rise in a warm, draft-free area until doubled in size, approximately 60-90

minutes (or 2–2 1/2 hours if dough has been refrigerated).

When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375 degrees. If using a loaf pan or free form baking on a tray, make sure that it is well buttered to prevent the bread from sticking. Brush the top with an egg wash (1 egg + 1 Tbsp. of water beaten) to ensure a golden brown color. Bake approximately 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature is 185 degrees.

Remove from oven and allow to cool.

Serve plain, with butter, or be creative!

I love to use it for French toast and bread pudding.

Deviled eggs, or eggs mimosa, are hard-boiled eggs, shelled, cut in half, and filled with the their yolk mixed with other ingredients such as mayonnaise and mustard, but many other variations exist. Deviled eggs are usually served cold. They are served as a side dish, appetizer or a main course, and are a common holiday or party food.

It seems that everyone has their own recipe for hard boiling eggs. Here is what seems to be the most popular way: Cover the eggs with at least an inch of water in a large saucepan. Add a teaspoon of vinegar and a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil.

Cover, and remove from heat. Let sit covered for 12-15 minutes. Drain hot water from pan and run cold water over the eggs for a few minutes before peeling.

Classic Deviled Eggs 1 dozen eggs 1 1/2 tsp. dijon mustard 2/3 cup mayonnaise 1 Tbsp. minced onion or shallot (optional) 1/4 tsp. tabasco Salt and pepper Paprika

Using a fork, mash up the yolks and add mustard, mayonnaise, onion, tabasco, and salt and pepper to taste.

Spoon egg yolk mixture into the egg white halves. Sprinkle with paprika.

Truffle Deviled Eggs One dozen hard-boiled eggs, shells removed 1 cup mayonnaise 1 1/2 tsp. truffle oil Salt Pinch of cayenne pepper Chopped fresh chives, for garnish In a bowl, add the egg yolks, mayonnaise, truffle oil, salt, and cayenne pepper and mix well. Spoon or pipe the mixture back into the eggs, and garnish with chopped chives.

Salmon Deviled Eggs 3/4 cup diced, peeled russet potato (about 1 large potato) One dozen hard-boiled eggs, shells removed 1/2 cup sour cream 1/2 cup mayonnaise 2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice 2 tbsp. finely chopped red onion 4 tsp. chopped fresh dill 3 tsp. Dijon mustard 2 slices smoked salmon, cut into 1/4 inch strips Peel and finely dice the potato and place in small pot of boiling, salted water and cook until fork tender, about 10 minutes. Place only 8 yolk halves in a bowl and discard remaining yolks.

Add potatoes, sour cream, lemon juice, red onion, 2 teaspoons dill, and mustard to yolks. Mash with fork or a mixer until smooth. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Fill egg white halves with seasoned yolk mixture.

Garnish each egg with salmon strip and top with pinch of remaining dill.

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Q

IN MEMORY

Mortgage options as diverse as the communities we serve Rely on a leading lender that takes pride in serving you

Rohn Neugebauer May 1, 1965 — March 16, 2014 We are sad to announce the sudden passing of Rohn Neugebauer, co-owner and CFO of Studio Raw in Ross Township, who died suddenly Sunday, March 16 of an apparent heart attack.

Rohn owned Studio Raw, located at 3185 Babcock Boulevard, along with his partner, Dan Burda, and Burda’s mother Lorraine.

Rohn also co-developed the web, marketing, and social media consulting company, Raw Hogs, often referred to as the official paparazzi of Pittsburgh. The company aims to shine a light on events and causes, primarily philanthropic, that may not get as much local media coverage as they deserve.

Among their more recent ventures was an internet reality series, The Raw Boys, which focuses on their challenges of building a business.

Rohn was also a successful real estate agent for over 17 years and a decorated Air Force Veteran.

He was named among Pittsburgh’s 50 finest in 2012 by the Western Pennsylvania Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Rohn was also affiliated with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and the American Cancer Society.

Friends, family and clients said he was known for his incredible generosity and big hear, and we agree.

On behalf of the staff and Board of Directors of the Delta Foundation of Pittsburgh, our thoughts and prayers are with the Burda and Neugebauer families.

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We’re an active part of the LGBT community and dedicate ourselves to understanding your unique goals.

Contact your local Wells Fargo Home Mortgage consultant today.

Jerry Pounds

Home Mortgage Consultant Cell: 412-606-6701 731 S. Aiken Ave, 1st Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15232 www.jerrypounds.com jerry.pounds@wellsfargo.com NMLSR ID 340848 Information is accurate as of date of printing and is subject to change without notice. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2013 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801.

AS1011880. Expires 04/2014

r e e u QSeen LOCAL SEEN

Photographs by Masha Vereshchenko

B*TCHES BALL AFTER PARTY @ BLUE MOON

STEEL CITY SNOW QUEEN PAGEANT @ BUCKHEAD SALOON

DUDE WHERE’S MY CHEST @ GLCC

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TRANS FORM

#GirlsLikeUs

By Michael David Battle

#GirlsLikeUs. The first time that I saw this hashtag, I glazed over it. Then, I saw it time and time again and just had to take notice.

Personally, I think that was the intent of the creator, Janet Mock.

A writer, an advocate, and the New York Times bestselling author of Redefining Realness: My Path to Womanhood, Identity, Love & So Much More, Janet is provocative and consistently challenges the status quo.

After publicly proclaiming her identity as a trans woman in a 2011 profile in Marie Claire magazine, Janet focused her efforts on speaking about the struggles, triumphs and portrayals of girls and women like herself. In 2012, she launched #GirlsLikeUs, a movement that encourages trans women to live visibly. She currently writes and speaks about her experience of living at the intersections of identities; being a woman, being a woman of color, and being of trans experience.

In February, Janet Mock appeared on “The Piers Morgan Show,” where they went back and forth about Janet’s own identity. Piers Morgan, like many individuals, thinks in the binary in terms of gender and sex; for example, that one is born a boy, is masculine, and will grow up as a man. Individuals of trans experience, like Janet, challenge the binary and the fundamental social construct that we each learn from an early age.

Piers Morgan referred to Janet as having been “born a boy” and she

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explained that like all of us, she was born a baby and someone else assigned her sex as “male” at birth.

Simple explanation: when a child is born, they aren’t born with a gender, but we ascribe a gender to them based on their genitals and then set expectations for their behavior based solely on their genitals, not who they are as a person.

With just this simple change in language, Janet Mock has affirmed her identity and the identity of millions of trans individuals throughout the world. Piers Morgan failed to understand what Janet Mock was saying and eventually she told him to, “get it the f**k together.”

Janet Mock will be coming to Pittsburgh on Tuesday, April 8 for two events. From 6-7:30 PM, a VIP Meet and Greet will be held at Tana Ethiopian Cuisine. Tickets are $75 and include dinner, a signed copy of Janet Mock’s book, a photo with Janet Mock, and a VIP bag. For tickets, visit showclix.com/events/ meetjanetmock At 8:30 PM, Janet Mock will lead a moderated discussion on Carnegie Mellon University. Admission is free and open to the public. Books will be available for purchase to be autographed following the discussion. For more info, visit gardenofpeaceproject.org

VOICE

Proceeds Benefit:

Sunday, April 27

DOORS OPEN AT 5PM; EARLY BIRD GAMES START AT 6:15PM Tickets are $20 in advance at www.deltafoundation.us/tickets $30 at the door (if available).

Pittsburgh Opera, 2425 Liberty Avenue, Strip District

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FEATURE

Part of a series by Equal Magazine

Black G

Pitts

Photo by Jonathan Fobear

ENOUGH ALREADY

By Diane Anderson Not Black enough.

Not White enough.

Not Jewish enough.

Not Christian enough.

Not poor enough.

Not middle class enough.

Not straight enough.

Not gay enough.

Enough is enough.

As a Heinz 57 style Pittsburgher n@, I know all too well growing up in the 70s, What it feels like to be questioned On my authentic self.

Funny, she doesn’t LOOK

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Drewish!

Sometimes humor has a way of punching thru the pain of trauma.

How many times I’ve been told, “You don’t look Jewish, Or wait for this phobie comment...

“Really? You Don’t Look Gay!” Really?! You don’t look stupid!

When I went to Hebrew School (Squirrel Hill) in 1973 for preschool, my teacher chose me to play Queen Esther, because she said I was the only one who resembled her.

It’s been 40 years since that first empowering and validating moment.

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Look at me now.

Married with 2 grown children and remembering how I struggled for the courage to live authentically back in my late teens and 20s.

And then my world exploded in activism.

I felt it finally was ENOUGH! The first coming out as a lesbian.

The second coming out as bisexual.

Being raised in a diverse family as a biracial child in Pittsburgh was certainly interesting.

Not quite fitting in with white society.

Not quite fitting in with black

society.

Etc., etc., etc.

Not feeling like I fit in anywhere.

Same with the Rainbow community.

Coming into my own as a biracial, multi-ethnic, bisexual human being, married to a white, bisexual, human being.

We kinda stand out, ya know?

And then there’s the activism!

L.G.B.T.Q.I.A.P. Etc., etc., etc.

Finally I feel like I fit somewhere!

Sort of...

Because it breaks my heart to see the segregation in our own

Gay

In this exploratory series, we ask Pittsburghers to share their stories about being black & gay in the city of black & gold.

sburgh community...

The us vs them within the L.G.B.T.Q.I.A.P. Etc., etc., etc. community.

Maybe my biracial and bisexual reality has primed me for my passion to unite our worlds so we can collaborate and realize our amazing strength and resiliency as we move forward together from the streets of Pittsburgh and beyond towards equality.

Because we are already equal.

We are already enough--Enough Already!

It doesn’t matter, our labels or which letters of the

community we identify or express.

It doesn’t matter if I live in Squirrel Hill, North Side, South Side, McKees Rocks, whatever.

The time is NOW to claim & legislate “We are equal” because as citizens, We are enough!

Enough arguing and debating about who gets equal rights and who gets “Separate but Unequal” second class “rights” oy vey...

Advocating, being an active part in this 21st century equal rights movement.

OUR PREDECESSORS WOULD

BE PROUD!

protection under the law.

THE LOVINGS PAVED THE WAY for my parents to legally get married in 1969. And now my wife and I are trudging the road to Equality Destiny, for not only our family, but for ALL people in Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, And beyond.

Because Equality is the POINT!

So, as a (deep breath) Black, Cherokee, Irish, Jewish, of Russian-Polish-British Ancestry AND GAY-ish American Citizen from Pittsburgh, PA…

Regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, class status, income level, physical ability, veteran status, education, health insurance status…

Because, equality is the point! –N@

I claim my status as ENOUGH ALREADY! NOW ON TOWARDS EQUALITY!

We are inherently worthy of dignity, respect and equal

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FASHION

Spring Trends

By Michael Barone Photos Courtesy of Shipley & Halmos, T by Alexander Wang, Yannis Vlamos / InDIgital | GoRunway, and style.com As winter is finally coming to an end, we anxiously await the blooms of spring which bring us to the first of the top 10 trends of Spring 2014: As in flowers. All types of flowers of every color and variety. They will be blooming on everything from shoes to hats and everything in between.

2. BLACK AND WHITE.

The color combo of choice this season will be as simple as black and white.

3. SEERSUCKER

That classic from the 50s will be the suiting fabric of choice.

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Silky, satiny fabrics will add a bit of elegance to this season.

5.SOFT

1. BLOOMS

4. SHINE

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Soft fluid jackets and trousers. With a longer silhouette and more voluminous proportion.

6. DOUBLE BREASTED

The DB has been trying to resurface for years and is finally here to stay.

7. SPORT

Sporting influences from dressy to casual looks.

And yes, the track suit is back.

8. BLUE

If everything isn’t black and white then it’s going to be blue. All shades of blue, powder to cobalt and navy. Sorry, no pink this spring.

9. BERMUDAS

Just as everyone got used to wearing short shorts they about-faced and decided to add some length.

10. FIFTIES

With seersucker, satin and high-waisted pleated pants back in style again it must be a total 50s influence.

So yes, you can wear that bowling shirt open under a double breasted blazer. Just don’t forget the soft side part to go with it!

T U C N U MOVIES

.

S V

T U C

T A H T S M L I F T N N E E T SEV GBT CON L T CU

By Jason Peck Pittsburgh is no stranger to cinema. From Night of the Living Dead to Mothman Prophecies and The Dark Knight Rises, Pittsburgh has a long history of movies being filmed here. And Pittsburghers love the silver screen back with a plethora of film festivals, including the Pittsburgh Independent Film Festival, the Asian Silk Screen Festival, the Jewish Film Festival, and of course, our own Reel Q. But what secrets lie behind your favorite films? It’s no secret that studio heads often cut controversial content from films, it’s just the content left on the chopping block may surprise you. Imagine how LGBT history might have been different had the original versions of these films been shown: 32

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THE MALTESE FALCON (1941)

The novel and the little-known 1931 film version of this movie never shied away from the homosexual tension between Joel Cairo and his young assistant Wilmer. But once the Hollywood Code came into effect, the filmmakers remade the more famous version with Humphrey Bogart that cut any scandalous content. The Cairo of 1941 is effeminate compared to the rugged Bogart – but that’s all.

THE LOST WEEKEND (1945) Why is the protagonist in Billy Wilder’s classic film so tense?

What drives him to addiction? In the film, it’s his failed career. In the source novel, it’s a college tryst with another man.

CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF (1958) What exactly was the

relationship between Brick (Paul Newman) and his deceased friend Skipper? This whitewashed film never answers it quite like the original stage version. Both writer Tennessee Williams and star Newman disapproved of the film for removing Brick’s homosexuality, with Williams saying the film would “set the industry back 50 years.” A 1984 film adaptation starring Tommy Lee Jones finally got it right.

images courtesy of: Miramax Films, Universal Pictures, Act III Communications, Fried Green Tomatoes Productions, Universal Pictures e Europa Carat Home Vídeo (Brazil/VHS/1992), Bryna Productions, Universal Pictures, Eon Productions, United Artists, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Paramount Pictures, Universal Studios, Warner Bros.

GOLDFINGER (1964)

SPARTACUS (1960)

Against all odds, filmmakers somehow kept the scandalous name “Pussy Galore” intact from the novel, but preserving the femme fatale’s status as a lesbian was a bit too much. The film version of Galore comes across as cold, but she’s still easy pickings for the seductive charms of a Connery-era Bond.

54 (1998) No one

calls this forgettable flick about the 1970s disco club a “classic,” by any means. But it is an interesting case study.

Studio heads demanded extensive reshoots and cuts to remove a romantic subplot between characters played by Breckin Meyer and Ryan Phillippe. The Huffington Post reports that director Mark Christopher once screened the director’s cut at Outfest in 2008, but a scene showing the kiss between the two men has been leaked online.

In perhaps cinema’s most famous deleted scene, the general Crassus (Laurence Olivier) attempts to seduce his slave boy Antoninus (Tony Curtis) through his infamous “oysters and snails” speech. The scene was restored in 1991 thanks to contributions from Curtis and Anthony Hopkins.

Most versions today include it.

FRIED GREEN TOMATOES (1991)

Yes, it’s true…our mothers’ favorite film about friend, family and tomatoes originally had gay content. The lesbian relationship between protagonists Ruth and Idgie was instead made ambiguous; the film won a GLAAD award regardless.

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M P AG A NI RI FI S QU E

TRAVEL

By Rick Sicilio Photos by Rick Sicilio Separated by the meandering Seine River, Paris is divided into two parts, the Rive Droite (Right Bank) on the North side and Rive Gauche (Left Bank) on the South side. Spiraling out from the center of the city, Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements, or administrative quarters, with most of the major tourist sites located in the lower numbers. Wherever you find yourself in Paris, you can be sure that you will be surrounded by culture, art, fashion, history, wine, and many more luxurious pleasures that only the French can offer.

No matter what time of year you visit Paris, you’ll never run out of places to see or things to do. Here are my top five: 1. Begin your Parisian tour with a visit to its most unmistakable symbol of the city: the Eiffel Tower. You can get a spectacular view of the city from the third level during the day, and in the evening marvel at the Eiffel 34

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Tower decorated with over 10,000 lights as a testament that Paris is, indeed, the “City of Lights.”

2. North of the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe stands guard over the ChampsÉlysées. The top of the Arch has a viewing platform that lets you look out toward The Basilique du Sacré Coeur, La Défense, and the Louvre Museum, but there is no elevator, so be prepared to climb the 234 steps to reach it.

3. The most famous avenue in the world is probably the Champs-Élysées, where Parisians gather for all of their major celebrations.

Champs-Élysées (or Elysian Fields in English) is derived from Greek mythology where “Elusia” was a place where heroes would go to relax.

Take a relaxing stroll down this “grand avenue” and visit cinemas, theatres, cafes and luxury shops.

4. No visit to Paris would be complete without a visit to the world-famous Louvre Museum.

Visitors will be mesmerized by the glass

pyramid at the main entrance and awed inside by its many priceless collections, including da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and Egyptian artifacts brought to France after Napoleon’s campaigns.

5. Notre-Dame Cathedral, with its gargoyles, grotesques, rose windows, and statues, became the prototype for all of France’s cathedrals. Located in the religious center of the city, Notre Dame’s monumental size and Gothic architecture was the backdrop for many revolutions and Victor Hugo novels. Climb to the top of the Cathedral’s towers and join the gargoyles while they gaze down on the city.

So grab your beret, pack your bags and visit magnificent, magical Paris to experience your own joie de vivre.

“He who contemplates the depths of Paris is seized with vertigo. Nothing is more fantastic.

Nothing is more tragic. Nothing is more sublime.”

- Victor Hugo

Hotels Mandarin Oriental

Located within walking distance of the Louvre and all of the major boutiques on rue Saint-Honoré, the Mandarin Oriental Paris has boycotted the usual palatial pomp for art deco glamor. The spa is one of the largest in the city, with seven suites offering treatments inspired by the Far East and all beginning with the Tian Quan Therapy, a Chinese bathing ritual. Jump in the 15m indoor pool afterwards or hit the 24-hour fitness center, small but well-equipped with Techno-gym equipment. For better and worse, it is a far shout from the grand palace hotels but come here if you are looking for cool, understated luxury in the heart of Paris. mandarinoriental.com/paris

W Paris Opera

Keeping to the trusted W formula, brand loyalists will feel right at home at the chain’s first hotel in the French capital. Set in a beautiful 1870s Haussmann building overlooking the Opéra, the familiar W vibe kicks in the moment you step into the LEDlit lobby with its model goodlooking staff and the tromp of beat background music. wparisopera.com

Hotel Sezz

The Sezz Hotel practically sizzles with raw, masculine sex appeal. Strong red and black interiors, exposed grey stone walls and ultra-modern furniture and lighting seem all the more surprising in the upscale surroundings of the 16th Arrondissement. Not that you would know it from its classical façade, hidden down a quiet residential street which quickly fills up come nightfall when the fashionable flock to the in-house Veuve

Clicquot champagne bar with its intimate rose petal shaped alcoves, the first of its kind in Paris. Aside from the intensely personal service (lack of reception means every guest is met by a personal concierge on arrival), the major draw is the basement decked out with a jacuzzi, hammam (steam room), and massage room. hotelsezz.com

length of the back wall behind the bar. The boss is constantly on the lookout for entertainers for podium action as the DJ cranks up the music from Happy Hour level to clubby as the night moves on. Come to this little bar disco to meet some “Spyce-y boys” with attitude. spycebar.com

Bars and Clubs In Paris, there is fun to be had

One of the most popular – and longest – happy hour times in the Marais, running from 6-9 PM, means the crowd always spills out onto the sidewalk. It is the area’s closest thing to a clone bar, and you will see a lot of shaved heads and more military and leather gear than at the Open Café just a couple of doors away. The drink of choice is definitely beer. facebook.com/cafecoxbarparis

ANY night of the week! Paris is a European capital for all things gay and fabulous. The Marais, centrally located in Paris’ 4th Arrondissement just north of the Hotel de Ville and south of the Place de la République, is the epicenter for nightlife catering to boys and girls. With most gay bars closing around 2 AM, there are late night options from the Bastille to the Champs-Élysées.

Prepare to line up and pay a cover charge (from 10 to 20 Euros) for the larger dance clubs.

Raidd Bar

Raidd Bar is the biggest and busiest gay bar in the Marais!

Upstairs, live DJs and dance music are the order of the day and after 11 PM, the rather impressive-looking barmen take it in turns to slip into a glass-fronted cabin for a “shower show” that is always worth a look. Downstairs is quieter, with more of a lounge atmosphere. Be prepared for some surprise camera tricks in the bathrooms. raiddbar.com

Spyce Bar

Located on the main block in the centre of the Marais, the intimate space has been carved out with some serious club style décor including a dramatic plasma screen that runs the

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Café Cox

Club 18

One of the oldest clubs in Paris, Club 18 is a small club located behind the gardens of the Palais Royal and is a weekend hotstop. The mostly young men there love pop songs or dance music.

Club18.fr

Scream

This venue is open every Saturday night starting at midnight. There are two dance floors underground along with a huge covered terrace. Located right by Place de la République between the Marais and the Canal-St-Martin neighborhoods, this is definitely the place to be on Saturday night in Paris for real gay clubbing. scream-paris.com For travel recommendations, please contact RSicilio@ TRIPSandCRUISES.com www.TRIPSandCRUISES.com or 800-411-8747.

Equa lMa ga z ine.org

SPORTS FOOD

Pittsburgh’s LGBT Athletic Community Offers Alternative and Fun Ways to Stay Fit

By Joe Corcoran

get in shape or maintain your already robust physique.

Spring is on its way and, whether you believe it or not, Pittsburgh is about to be met with the sun’s warm embrace once more. This season is all about growth and renewal, and the transition from winter to spring brings endless possibilities for change. No more snuggling on the couch watching reruns of RuPaul’s Drag Race and Girls all weekend long!

Instead, become proactive about your health and utilize spring 2014 to

Whether you’re a diehard sports fan ready to move from your living room recliner to the field, just curious about new ways to get active or looking to spice up your weekly workout routine, Pittsburgh’s LGBT sports groups have a lot to offer this spring and beyond.

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BOWLING

Score a perfect game with Steel City Bowling.

The league, which is a member of the United States Bowling Congress, is open to all experience levels – from expert bowlers to those who have never picked up a bowling ball.

Their season runs from September-December, and January-April, but the league hosts offseason bowling at AMF Noble Manor Lanes on Sundays at 7 pm. steelcitybowling.org.

FLAG FOOTBALL

Capture the flag with the Pittsburgh Ironmen, the city’s premier co-ed flag football team. The group, which began in 2009, is a member of the National Gay Flag Football League, and competes annually in GayBowls throughout the United States. The team’s season runs from April through October and they practice once a week (schedule TBA.) No experience necessary! pittironmen.org

RUNNING

Hit the trails with Pittsburgh’s Frontrunners!

The group, which launched in 1989, runs three times a week in Oakland’s Schenley Park. Runners meet on the corner of Schenley Drive and Frew Street Extension (near Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens), Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7 pm and Saturdays at 9 am. No experience is necessary! pittsburghfrontrunners.org.

SOFTBALL

VOLLEYBALL

Serve up ….with Steel City volleyball. The league’s indoor fall and winter seasons run from September-December and January-April at the Greentree Sportsplex, but it hosts casual games throughout the summer with players from all levels of expertise meeting at 1:30 pm, and competitive players at 6:30 pm, near the Schenley Park Oval in Oakland (weather permitting). steelcityvolleyball.org.

Get past second base with Steel City softball – Pittsburgh’s longest running LGBT sports organization. Softball is not only a woman’s sport, the Steel City league is open to anyone and everyone 18 years or older who is LGBT friendly. April is spring training month for the league, and its summer season begins May 3 at North Park. Membership drives will be held at 8 pm on April 4, 11 and 12 at Cattivo, Cruze and 5801 respectively. steelcitysoftball.org.

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FAITH

FINDING FAITH

By Stacey Federoff

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For years, John Ryan felt sick.

To him, the way he felt about himself and his sexuality were an illness that needed healing, but he didn’t think he could find the cure until he reflected on his spirituality.

“I was always told it was wrong, I pushed it out of awareness and denied it,” says Ryan, of Point Breeze, now 37.

Until he realized that he could come to terms with his faith and come out, Ryan says he couldn’t be his authentic self.

“One of the things that God showed me was that this part of me was very loved,” he says, looking back after 17 years out of the closet.

Faith communities throughout the Pittsburgh area also want to elevate that message, especially during the spring season of Lent celebrated in many Christian churches.

Jeff Miller, a member of the steering committee for Circle of Faith Pittsburgh, says for many working through the coming out process, struggling with faith that rejects them is a difficult process.

“When I finally stopped trying to convince God there was a mistake, I was finally able to accept myself,” he says of his own journey.

The more than 20 faith organizations in Pittsburgh represented by Circle of Faith acknowledge that people are created as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, from a place of love and inclusion.

“Even though we’re all different, faiths are different, faith communities are different, we can all stand together,” Miller says.

“Christ always welcomed the outcasts,” he says. “Christ is coming from a place of love.”

The life of an arTisT - beTween The worlds of The living and The dead

Ryan wrote a book published last year called “Christ-Centered Consciousness” about his experience to relate to other LGBT people who might find themselves in a similar situation.

“Life is about being true to yourself as God created you and helping other people discover their authentic selves,” says Ryan, now pursuing a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at Duquesne University.

Philip Glass’s

Circle of Faith Pittsburgh is trying to foster a place for that spiritual discovery among the LGBT community, begun during Pittsburgh Pride last year with 250 people who circled the Highland Park reservoir in a gesture of acceptance and inclusion, Miller says. The group is working on a similar event in Market Square this June, he says.

In the communities represented

by Circle of Faith--which includes more than just Christian-based groups--the accepting nature of the congregations are apparent but not overwhelming,” Miller says.

“When you go in, you sense that you are welcome no matter what,” he says.

John Ryan’s book, “Christ-Centered Consciousness,” is available at amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com or balboapress.com.

For more information about Circle of Faith Pittsburgh, visit the group’s Facebook page.

Apr. 26, 29; May 2, 4 • Benedum Center Inspired by the Cocteau film “Orphée” English texts projected above the stage Tickets $12 and up 412-456-6666 www.pittsburghopera.org

Many who reference the Bible often point to edicts of the Old Testament instead of the life of Jesus Christ in the New Testament, Ryan says.

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ANIMAL PRINT

The

DOG DAYS

are

JUST BEGINNING

By Philip Ezzo

Take me outside or I’ll Pope on the rug.

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It has become somewhat cliché for a gay man to be seen walking his dog down the street. Clad in doggy designer clothes, or in some other adorable ensemble, it is the subject of many a joke. Until recently, I joined in on the laughs, but secretly always wanted to be “that guy” with “that dog.” Why do so many of us enjoy treating pets like children?

Growing up, I always pictured myself having a large family. In fact, I remember telling my parents that my first car would undoubtedly be a mini-van, or a bus, because I wanted to be prepared for the future. When I realized that I was gay, my notions of marriage and children were put on the backburner. Then, adulthood definitely taught me that having kids is a far bigger responsibility than I am willing to take on at this stage, and that’s okay.

Sensing a void in my life, I adopted Winslow at the end of January from a rescue, and although it took me a few weeks to adjust to my new circumstances, I wouldn’t trade him for the world. I find myself spending a good portion of my workday wondering what he is doing, and worrying about his well-being. Is it possible that he has

made me less self-centered? I imagine this is the process new parents go through upon the arrival of their firstborn. I’ve learned that having a dog is like having a child that never grows up and isn’t quite as expensive. Much like little kids, they look so cute when they’re dressed-up like little adults.

The newest trends extend further than long jaunts in cute outfits. Instagram, Facebook, and Vine all have been bombarded with accounts belonging to the canines and cats that By gays, Philip and Ezzo straights alike, have created for their precious pets. Animals do the darndest things! We’re entertained, filled with warmth, and even moved to tears by their pictures, posts, and videos. What’s next? I haven’t gone so far yet, but only time will tell. Damn all of this peer pressure.

Where do we draw the line? At what point do we become crazy cat ladies?

Just as single people probably loathe hearing their married friends go on and on about their brood, is it just as annoying to people when we can’t stop talking about our pets? I suppose it’s all in the delivery. One-sided conversations aren’t generally well-received, and if the other party’s eyes are starting to glaze

over, it’s probably time to change the subject.

What attracts us to these dogs in the first place? Why do they take such a place of prominence in our lives? Dogs are not beings capable of prejudice or judgment, with no care about sexual orientation. The bond that exists between pet and owner is one that cannot be broken, and for those in the gay community that feel like they have no one to turn to, a dog can be just the connection they need to get them through from one phase of their life to the next. Dogs aren’t possessions to the men and women that adopt them; they are companions.

They are family.

The Gay/Lesbian Consumer Online Census found that pet ownership is actually 10 percent more common among gays and lesbians than among their straight counterparts. This is an astonishing difference. Some reports say that nearly 4 out of 5 gays have a pet!

Paws and Reflect, a book by Neil Plakcy and Susan Sakson is a collection of twenty-five stories about gay men and their dogs. If you’re

interested in opening your heart to a furry friend, or even if you already have a canine in your life, this book is a great read! (Hot Contributor Reads a Book) Wink.

We all need a little unconditional love in our lives, and pets are often a better bet than some boyfriends. Men are dogs… wait, I take that back. Even if it makes us “crazy cat ladies,” we have to follow our hearts. At the end of the day, pets are one thing that most gays have not managed to turn into an accessory, and that’s for the best.

P.S. I have to put in a shameless plug for my little Winslow. You can see pictures of him on my Twitter or Instagram @P2theEzzo.

Photos courtesy of Animal Planet

Tell your friends! Bring your co-workers! Alert the media!

Join us at these upcoming dates for Xtreme Bingo:

Sunday, April 27 Sunday, May 18 Get your tickets online at deltafoundation.us/tickets or call 888-71-TICKETS

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Spring

GIRL TALK

Forward 10 Things We Lesbians Need To Let Go Of In Time For Spring:

By Chrissy Costa

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Spring and “springtime” refer to the season, and also to ideas of rebirth, rejuvenation, renewal, resurrection and regrowth.

It’s time to let go of certain items hiding in the closet; such as your ex-girlfriend, old Timberlands and used sex toys. Some things should never be revisited.

The overuse of the word dime

“Baby, you’re a dime.” Honey, she knows, but we’re tired of hearing you say it. (You’ll thank me by summer)

Vague and/or passive-aggressive Facebook posts

“I can’t say exactly what it is, but you’ll all figure it out soon enough and realize it was the best decision I’ve ever made.” Well that’s a loaded statement and you’ve probably just lost 17 Facebook friends while being talked about over drinks. Also, the word douchebag may be thrown around.

Complicated relationships

“Jane is in a complicated relationship.” You’re too hot for that bullshit, Jane. If she doesn’t

appreciate you, remember this: for every girl that doesn’t cherish you and your special, amazingly precious heart, there’s like 9-23 of us who are dying to know what you look like without a shirt. #springfever

The need to tell us about your workout

I mean, we’re impressed that you can post a selfie while squatting, but let us know when you do something to benefit society, such as eliminating homelessness or making a sandwich with your vagina.

Cleansing

Also known as starving for two weeks and then eating everything not nailed down on day 15.

(I’m sorry I ate your plant, Mom.) Just choose to eat wisely on a daily basis while moving more and you too can get down…like Jane.

Bathroom “self-portraits”

The only thing sadder than a girl taking her own picture in the bathroom mirror is a boy taking his own picture in a bathroom mirror. #tears

Inspirational quotes

When quoting other people you should…just never quote other people, especially Morgan Freeman. But if you must quote, be sure to use quotation marks and add the author’s name. “I don’t usually quote older men, but when I do I always spell Nietzsche wrong.”

When watching “Orange Is the New Black,” we all need to stop pretending we’re Piper and Alex and accept that we’re more Big Boo and Crazy Eyes.

Out with the old, in with the new. You can do it, lovelies. Happy Spring!

Proposing

I know we’re all excited that marriage equality is passing in more and more states, (GASP!) but you just had two fiancés in three months.

Come on, girl!

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents

TRUSTCabaret

Clint Holmes ONE NIGHT ONLY!

Monday, May 12 • Cabaret at Theater Square TrustArts.org • 412-456-6666 Box Office at Theater Square Groups 10+ Tickets 412-471-6930

ACCESSIBLE

SERVICES AVAILABLE

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MAP

S 18th St

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Blo om fie ld Bri dg e Bigelow Blvd

elo w Big

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P*Town 4740 Baum Blvd

Forbes Ave

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Sixth Prebyterian Church 1688 Murray Ave

Square Cafe 1137 S Braddock Ave

837

EC ar so nS t

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Greenfiel eld The Link 91 Wendel Rd

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First United Methodist Church 5401 Centre Ave

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(Herminie, PA)

City Theatre Arlington Ave 1300 Bingham St.

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Animal Rescue League 6620 Hamilton Ave. Homew

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GLCC 210 Grant St

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Images 965 Liberty Ave

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5801 Video Lounge 5801 Ellsworth Ave Penn Av e

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Persad Center 5150 Penn Ave.

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Club Pittsburgh 1139 Penn Ave

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Pittsburgh Opera 2425 Liberty Ave.

St E Ohio ley Press

Federa

Heinz Field

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Brewers Hotel 3315 Liberty Ave

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PNC Park Stage AE 279

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Donny’s Place Leather Central 1226 Herron Ave

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Pittsburgh AIDS Task Force 5913 Penn Ave

Shepherd Wellness Community 4800 Sciota St.

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Pittsburgh Public Theater 621 Penn Ave

Mancheste te er

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Delta Foundation of Pittsburgh 911 Galveston Ave.

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Humane Society 1101 Western Ave

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Blue Moon on Butler 5115 Butler St

Cattivo 146 44th St

e Stanton Av

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ton Ave

Saturday, April 26th

3 great Shadyside events on 1 day!

8am - 2pm The Great Shadyside Yard Sale Sell your wares & Shop for a cause!

Application deadline: April 18th Cost for table: $25

9am - 2pm Bark Shadyside Pup Walk Raffles, giveaways & free Bark Shadyside gear!

Registration: 9am 1-mile walk: 10am Cost: 10/dog, $15 day of

Event Headquarters:

10am-2pm Spring Redd Up Shadyside Volunteer to beautify our neighborhood.

Clean up litter & plant flowers on Walnut, Ellsworth & Highland!

Presented by:

Liberty School Parking Lot

Get More Details && Register

Corner of Ellsworth Ave & Ivy Street Proceeds benefit:

www.thinkshadyside.com

ARL_shadyside_events_EQUAL.indd 1

3/17/14 1:12 PM

HOT GIRL READS A BOOK

HOPE Vannucci

on “House of Leaves” by Mark Z. Danielewski This book has had a profound impact on my life, resulting in getting myself the word “house” tattooed, in blue Courier font, on the inside of my right wrist.

House of Leaves is a spectacular piece of literature-but not for the faint of heart. Taking ten years of Mark Z. Danielewski’s life to write, this book explores the depths of the human mind-it’s elasticity, just how far you can go and still come back, or how far is too far until you’re lost in the abyss of utter loss and confusion. Written in a confusing jumble of at least two narratives at a time, the plot-line follows the story lines of: a written

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documentation of a short film documentary of a house that expands once you’re on the inside (sounds kind of hokey, right? It’s actually horrifying), which is in Times New Roman font, and the young man who stumbles across this document and quickly loses his sanity trying to piece it all together (in Courier). The book includes everything from chapters of pages with nothing but one word per page, spiraling text, ten solid pages of false annotations and footnotes written around an empty square box printed in the middle of the page, to the notable signature-every time the word “house” is written in the book, it is in blue.

I was born and raised in Pittsburgh and have spent some of my best and worst times here.

I love the city but it would be a lie to say I don’t want to explore somewhere else and get the chance to tackle the great unknown on my own terms with no safety net! I spent 15 years of my life training with the classical violin which turned out not to be my desired life path so I’m currently settling into life and trying to see what it has to offer me, and vice versa.

We’re all in this together.

We work better when all of us work together. Inclusion means every person is valued, and all contributions are welcomed. At UPMC, inclusion begins with a core belief that everyone deserves dignity and respect.

UPMC Center for Inclusion inspires a culture of collaboration throughout our company and within the communities we serve, all based on the simple idea that inclusion matters — to all of us, every day.

Affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC is ranked among the nation’s top 10 hospitals by U.S. News & World Report.

The Delta Foundation of Pittsburgh is pleased to announce the following Lambda Giving

SCHOLARSHIP AND GRANTS

NOW AVAILABLE Deadline is May 1, 2014

WILLIAM NIST SCHOLARSHIP This scholarship will be awarded to a high school senior or college student who is making a positive contribution to the LGBT community.

The $5,000 scholarship will be awarded to one student each year that exhibits the strength, intelligence, perseverance and dedication it takes to stand up to bigotry in their school or community and fight for equality.

Deadline is August 1, 2014

INNOVATION AND DEVELOPMENT GRANTS The Innovation and Development Grant supports a special project that raises the awareness and understanding of the LGBT community.

BUZZ PUSATERI ALPHA TO OMEGA AIDS FUND

THE JAMIE STICKLE FUND

Buzz Pusateri Alpha to Omega AIDS Fund supports educating youth and young adults on the prevention of HIV/AIDS. It also supports programs that meet the special needs of long-term HIV/AIDS survivors.

The Jamie Stickle Fund supports womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s/ lesbian health issues with a focus on raising self-esteem and preventing abuse.

Over $17,500 is available!

Lambda Giving is a project of the Delta Foundation of Pittsburgh

For more information contact info@deltafoundation.us or call 412-322-2800