Equal jan 2014 issuu by Delta Foundation of Pittsburgh

JAN 2014

Our LGBT Year in Review Who came out and when

Unleash the

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Tis the Season

Fabulous

Resolutions Making of a

M E NTOR Lambda Foundation & Delta Foundation

in 2014

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Saturday, February 22, 2014

benefiting the Delta Foundation of Pittsburgh

BLACK TIE OPTIONAL FEATURING A LIVE AND SILENT AUCTION THROUGHOUT THE EVENING FOR TICKETS, VISIT DELTAFOUNDATION.US/GAYLA OR CALL 888-71-TICKETS

This June, the Pride party continues in Toronto at WorldPride 2014

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Register online at www.pittsburghpride.org/wptoronto or by calling (412) 322-2800. This is an international trip and a valid Passport is required.

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.

Jack Bellas is a Partner of Revive Marketing Group and resides in Pittsburgh’s South Side. Jack’s love of the city is rooted in its culture, growing restaurant scene, and continuously evolving nightlife.

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. 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, Trib Total Media. She loves music, vinyl records, coffee, running, and volunteerism.

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.

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, 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.”

Guest contributors: Joe Corcoran John Altdorfer Christine Bryan

COVER: Our cover photo was taken by Mara Rago, and is one of several nude portraits from her gallery collection.

Are YOU interested in writing for Equal Magazine? Email joek@equalmagazine.com 4

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WITH LOVE

Dear Friends, Happy New Year and welcome to our January issue. Oh my goddess, here comes Suzy and Snowflakes!

We kick off winter with the guiding light of fitness guru Suz Falvey. Suz helps us usher in a new year and a new you with an inspiring body of work-out tips and fitness advice that may help you make some positive changes this year. Page. 26 Speaking of positive changes, January is national mentoring month, and a time when we all reflect on events that have changed our lives last year as we vow to make a few resolutions for this brand new one. You’ll find a year in review story with all the gay details of who came out last year on page 18 and ways you can mentor to make a difference in someone’s life in 2014 on page 34. We also help you come out… laughing, with an introduction to two fun and funny gay comedy tours that are coming to the burrrrrrgh featuring gay comedians that you won’t want to miss on page 32 and Equal Magazine offers a humorous look at a few trends and bad habits that are so last year. We can only hope a few of them have gone away permanently. Page. 38. If you are looking to pack a bag and get away but you need a legitimate excuse to skip the gym this month, Traveling Jack is back with a hot tip for a winter gaycation on page. 24 If you are looking to stay local, don’t worry, we’ve packed our calendar with activities to heat up your cold nights and give you plenty of opportunity to wear that new sweater. Pg 10 In this issue we shed some light on the signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder and help you beat the winter blues with an interesting read on page 12. You can get up to date information about Project Silk and the work they are doing to empower people in our community and affect change for the good of all on page 30. There is so much more to discover within the pages of this issue and subscribing is the only way to ensure you won’t miss a single story or full color issue. When you subscribe you will be supporting our community and the stories that shape our lives year round. We’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet for auld lang syne. LGBT Visibility Everywhere.

Joe King Editor-in-Chief

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WHAT PAGE IS THAT ON?

FEATURES 18 Celebrities who came out in 2013

26 Suz’s workout tips for a new body in 2014

32 Come out Laughing Tour comes to the ‘Burgh

44 Lambda and Delta Join Forces

ANUARY

IN (ALMOST) EVERY ISSUE

16 22 24 30 34 38 40 42

Hot Boy Reads a Book Some tips that will turn you into Martha Stewart Fantasy island in Key West Project Silk weaves into the community Who’s your mentor? That’s so 2013... trends to avoid in 2014 Time to make those resolutions... again What’s Gay and Goin’ On?

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Publisher: The Delta Foundation of Pittsburgh Board Members Gary A. Van Horn Jr. President Louise F. Stutler Vice President Brian J. Stankavich Secretary Peter J. Karlovich Treasurer Samuel C. Badger Michael G. Bartley Daniel M. Catanzaro Mary Jo Geyer Steven R. Herforth Patrick J. Journet Charles C. Lukehart August “Buzz” C. Pusateri Jim Sheppard

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Editor-in-Chief Joe King Art Director Jonathan Fobear Emotional Support Mark Doyal Christmas Cookies Egg Nog

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

Emeritus Board Members Charles W. Honse William R. Kaelin Donnie R. Thinnes Charles P. Tierney

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.

Proceeds Benefit:

Entertainment by: Pittsburgh Opera

Saturday, January 11

DOORS OPEN AT 6PM; EARLY BIRD GAMES START AT 7:15PM 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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Thurs Jan 23 -

Feb 23

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COMEOUT COMPANY LAUGHING

O’Reilly Theater, downtown ppt.org 10

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COMEDYTOUR

Featuring Jason Dudey, Dana Goldberg, and Ian Harvie Cruze Bar, Strip District showclix.com

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REMEMBERS THE SUPERHEROS

Doors open at 9 PM Cattivo 146 44th Street, Lawrenceville Facebook.com/hmh.pgh

Benedum Center, downtown trustarts.org

Mon

East Liberty Celebrates MLK Day Kelly Strayhorn Theater 5941 Penn Avenue kelly-strayhorn.org

28 Tues

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FEATURE

Blues

Clues

By Phillip Ezzo

Identifying Seasonal Affective Disorder It’s no secret that this time of year can be gloomy and depressing. The holigays are now over, and there doesn’t seem to be much to look forward to, other than summer. Some blame the cold (and the anticipation of the new season of RuPaul’s Drag Race), but it’s actually the lack of sunlight that makes us feel blue. Season Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) is an actual condition that many suffer from caused by the lack of vitamin D in the human body, which leads to a lack of Serotonin synthesis, and an increase in its counterpart, Melatonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter in the brain that creates feelings of well being and happiness. Melatonin is also a neurotransmitter that is a natural depressant, which helps us sleep.

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Lower serotonin and high melatonin levels are physiological causes for these emotional changes. Even if one does not suffer from said disorder, none of us are immune to the affects that the lack of vitamin D has on our bodies. We all have various biological factors that help us cope with sad feelings, but not everyone has them in the same proportions. Knowing your own body is very important. Oversleeping, depression, anxiety, weight issues, and a lack of concentration/motivation are a few of the main symptoms of this condition. Having the ability to read your moods can help you determine if some of the following suggestions for beating the winter blues can work for you.

Eat Better Foods In order for the body to produce serotonin the body needs higher levels of amino acids. Whole grains and foods, in general, have higher levels of tryptophan than any other amino acid. Smart carbs in moderation are recommended because they also contain b vitamins, which help the body convert the tryptophan into serotonin. One certainly can’t talk about tryptophan without talking about turkey, since it is a high quality protein that contains high levels of the amino acid. Bananas, nuts and seeds, and beans are also great sources of tryptophan, which gives a lot of options to increase in one’s diet for the winter. Green leafy vegetables, like spinach, are also rich in folate, which is an ever-helpful B vitamin.

Avoid Stimulants/Junk Food Coffee and chocolate might increase serotonin levels temporarily, but over time their use can make it harder for your body to produce it because of the way it interferes with the body’s insulin levels. Similarly, with ice cream, the high levels of sugar and fat counteract the efforts of the proteins in the milk. If you must indulge in sweets, limit your intake.

Exercise You’ve heard this one a million times, so it should not be surprising that regular physical activity can increase serotonin levels, as well as dopamine levels and endorphins. These all work together to reduce discomfort of the physical and mental variety. Even though there is a lack of sunlight during the winter months, finding outdoor activities, such as running, sledding, or even building a snowman can help. Take advantage of the sun when you can. It is also helpful to avoid the use of sunglasses, unless the reflection off of the snow is too bright. This is because we need to see the sunlight with our eyes in order for the body to create higher levels of serotonin. Also, this is why tanning beds are not adequate substitutes for natural sunlight.

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Avoid Binge Drinking It may seem like the natural choice to turn to drinking when there appears to be nothing else to do, but having 5 or more drinks in one sitting can actually make you feel worse. Most of us know that alcohol is a depressant, and imbibing such a substance in large quantities can further those blue feelings. Nobody likes to feel down in the dumps, especially at this time of year. Following these steps might not erase all of your problems, but it can certainly help bring some control back into your life. These are suggestions that anyone can follow. So, let the sun shine in!

Have a Set Bedtime We tend to sleep more in the winter months, but it is recommended to try to stick to a 7-8 hour sleep schedule because it can actually be worse for your body to sleep 10-12 hours at a time. By setting a firm sleep schedule you can train your body to start the melatonin/serotonin cycle earlier so that your body is ready to get up in the morning, fully refreshed and excited for the day.

Drink Tea Despite the fact that coffee isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t recommended, a Finnish study has shown that black and green tea provide a host of mood benefits due to the theanine found in them. 2000 Finnish people canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be wrong, can they?!

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KARAOKE Every Thursday

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HOT BOY READS A BOOK

JEFFREY ROBERTS on “50 Shades of Gray” by E. L. Grey

Photo by Mara Rago Photography “Fifty Shades of Grey” by British author E.L. James is the first book in the Fifty Shades series that traces the deepening relationship between a college graduate, Anastasia Steele, and a young business magnate, Christian Grey. It is notable for its explicitly erotic scenes featuring elements of sexual practices involving bondage/discipline, dominance/submission, and sadism/masochism. The three-part series has sold over 90 million copies worldwide and has been translated into 52 languages, and set the record as the fastest-selling paperback of all time. “I wanted to read “Fifth Shades of Grey” because of the relationship between Anastasia and Christian. When Anastasia says, “I gasp, and I’m Eve in the Garden of Eden and he’s the serpent, and I cannot resist” I can relate because I think most people have been involved in a relationship or situation that they know is toxic for them, but continue anyway because of love or short term gratification. If you’re looking for an easy book to read that will keep your attention, I highly recommend this one. Besides, who doesn’t enjoy a whip, handcuffs and blindfolds once in a while?” 16

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February 11-16 • Heinz Hall TruSTarTS.OrG • bOX OFFiCe aT THeaTer SQuare 412-392-4900 • GrOuPS 10+ TiCKeTS 412-471-6930 PNC Broadway Across America-Pittsburgh is a presentation of The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Pittsburgh Symphony and Broadway Across America.

FEATURE

CLOSET BUSTERS Coming Out of Hiding in 2013 By Michael Buzzelli In 2013, a slew of celebrities came out of the closet, and, for the first time, a male pro athlete came out of the closet while still playing on a team. Two weeks into 2013, long-rumored-tobe lesbian Jodie Foster (“Silence of the Lambs,” “Little Man Tate”) came out at the Golden Globes while accepting the Cecil B. DeMille Award for “outstanding contributions to the world of entertainment.” She was followed out of the closet by Matt Dallas (“Kyle XY”) who announced his engagement to musician Blue Hamilton, also in January. By April, the two had walked the red carpet for the first time as a couple at the 2013 GLAAD Media Awards. Jason Collins, who played with the NBA’s Washington Wizards, disclosed he was gay, making him the first active openly gay male athlete in basketball. Collins revealed his sexuality in the May 6 issue of “Sports Illustrated.”

Jodie Foster 18

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Collins wasn’t the only basketball player to come out. Britney Griner of the WNBA opened up her closet door as well. Griner

said, “I didn’t have a real role model that I could look up to that was out openly.” The Phoenix Mercury player added, “I knew there were a lot of younger girls that needed someone.” In April, she became the first openly gay athlete to sign with Nike. In college basketball, Derek Schell became the first openly gay NCAA Division II player. In an essay for OutSports.com he wrote “I came out as gay to all my closest friends because I wanted to see who was really a true friend to me. There was nothing wrong with me. I didn’t want to be someone else’s idea of normal. To me, normal is a boring, stereotypical mold that encourages conformity and trying to fit in. I just wanted to be accepted.” Jasmine Jordan, the daughter of famed basketball player Michael Jordan, came out as a lesbian on Instagram. International soccer star Robbie Rogers came out in February of 2013 when he announced his retirement from the game. The midfielder told the British newspaper The Guardian that he felt uncomfortable being the first openly gay man on a professional football [soccer] team. But

after a wave of support from players and fans alike, he returned to the game in May when he signed with the Los Angeles Galaxy. Former NFL hopeful Kevin Grayson made a similar proclamation. One of Virginia’s most decorated college players gave an exclusive interview to Virginia television station WTVR and candidly discussed having to hide his sexual identity while playing for the University of Richmond. The athlete said, “If you are an athlete, you want to be an athlete.” Grayson told the station, “You want to be known for what you’ve done on the basketball court, football field, tennis court, or whatever.” Also in sports, WWE superstar Darren Young announced he was gay when TMZ stopped him at LAX and asked him if a gay wrestler could succeed in WWE. Young laughed, saying, “Absolutely. Look at me. I’m a WWE superstar and to be honest with you, I’ll tell you right now, I’m gay. And I’m happy. I’m very happy.” Young wasn’t the only person to reveal his sexuality on television. Grammywinning record executive Clive Davis announced his bisexuality to Katie Couric when he admitted that he is currently in a monogamous relationship with a man. He added, “I opened myself up to the possibility that I could have a relationship with a man as well as the two that I had with a woman. I’m still attracted to women ...you don’t have to be only one thing or another. For me, it’s the person.” His book, written with Anthony DeCurtis, The Soundtrack of My Life details some of his exploits with both men and women. Actor Ben Wishaw wasn’t secretive about his August 2012 wedding, but the news broke in 2013. Wishaw, who puts the queer in Q playing the gadget man in the James Bond series, disclosed that he had been married to his partner, Australian composer Mark Bradshaw, for a year.

Jason Collins

Matt Dallas

He wasn’t the only “spy” to come out.

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Victor Garber (best known as double-agent Jack Bristow on Alias) had opened his closet a few years ago, but it became public in an interview with Greg Hernandez, a veteran Hollywood reporter who writes about gay celebrities. Hernandez said, “So, I quickly looked at his Wikipedia page and there it was: “He lives in New York with his companion of 13 years, Rainer Andreesen.” I then found all kinds of photos of this most handsome couple together. I wondered, ‘Did he come out publicly and I missed it?’” Garber responded, ‘I don’t really talk about it but everybody knows.” Raven-Symone tweeted out loud. In August, actor RavenSymone Pearman told the birdie that she was delighted by the U. S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn DOMA (the Defense of Marriage Act). The “That’s So Raven” star announced, “I can finally get married! Yay government! So proud of you.” Another actor tweeted about DOMA. In June 2013, Greg Rikaart (The Young and the Restless) came out by posting a picture of himself and his boyfriend, writer Robert Sudduth. He wrote a caption that said, “Not getting married anytime soon, but celebrating equality tonight nonetheless.” In response to Russia’s treatment of gay citizens, Wentworth Miller (Prison Break) came out on GLAAD’s website. He wrote an open letter to the Saint Petersburg International Film Festival declining their invitation to attend. He also revealed that when he was a teenager he attempted suicide as a result of his burgeoning sexuality. Lucas Cruikshank, who played Fred Figglehorn in Fred: The Movie, revealed he was gay 20

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in a video he posted to YouTube while lounging in bed with his straight female friend and actor Jennifer Veal. On the video, Cruikshank, in response to a fan’s question, said, “I’m gay. I feel so weird saying it on camera. But my family and friends have known for like three years. I just haven’t felt the need to announce it on the Internet.” Bob Harper, fitness guru from The Biggest Loser, finally revealed his sexuality on an episode of the eponymous show. He came out to encourage Bobby, a gay contestant on the show who was struggling with his own sexual identity. Maria Bello (Coyote Ugly) revealed her sexuality in the “New York Times.” In a first person account the actor described to her twelve-year old son, Jackson McDermott, about her relationship with Clare Munn. Bello described herself as having a Modern Family, citing the popular ABC television show. After she told her son about her relationship with Munn, she fretted about his reaction to the news. She wrote; “He looked at me for what seemed like an eternity and then broke into a huge, warm smile. ‘Mom, love is love, whatever you are,’ he said with wisdom beyond his years.” New Zealand-born swimmer and Olympian, Amini Fonua dove into the deep end when he came out on campus during his freshman year. The Olympian came out in part to defend his school from the perception that it is a hostile environment for LGBT students. Fonua attends Texas A&M University, which the Princeton Review ranked as the most conservative university and 7th-most unfriendly LGBT

Bob Harper

“I CAN FINALLY GET MARRIED! YAY GOVERNMENT! SO PROUD OF YOU.” Raven-Symone

campus in America. Another swimmer made a splash when he came out. Tom Daley came out as bisexual when the swimmer revealed he was dating a man on YouTube. The nineteen-year old British diver is in a relationship with screenwriter Dustin Lance Black (Milk). Daley said, “I am in a serious relationship with a man and I couldn’t be happier.” YouTube became a popular site to come out. Jimmy Lee Hales, a Mormon student at Brigham Young University, came out to his family and friends in a touching, fiveminute video. Mormon doctrine on homosexuality has been fairly conservative, but Mormon Church goers on the website mormonsandgays.org are hopeful that the church may change its policy. Another Mormon, Marie Osmond, interviewed actor Tuc Watkins who came out of the closet on her talk show. Watkins is best known for his role as Bob Hunter, the gay lawyer on Desperate Housewives. Crystal Bowersox is using her Christmas album to tell the world about her sexuality. The 2009 American Idol runner-up cut off her dreads and announced that she is bisexual in a new song, Coming Out for Christmas. The song tells the story about a woman who tells her mother on the phone that she will be bringing a guest to the Christmas table this year. Bowersox sings, “Finally I will introduce my love as not just my friend.”

In August, Australian actor Troye Sivan came out on the Internet. The actor is best known for playing young James Howlett, the boy who grows up to be Wolverine, in X-Men Origins:Wolverine. Toward the end of the year, another Australian actor Harry Cook came out of the closet. On December 9, 2013 his YouTube video went viral with 35,000 people watching it in one day. UK born Cook was named the Number One Hottie in the August edition of Australia’s Girlfriend magazine this year with the magazine writing ‘we reckon he’s going to be big.’ In politics, Representative Michael Michaud (D-Maine) confirmed he was gay in November. He wrote an article in the Portland Press Herald, which also ran in the Bangor Daily News titled, “Yes. I am gay. But why should it matter?” In the article Michaud writes “I write this now merely to let my opponents and the outside interests who fund them know that I am not ashamed of who I am. And if seeing someone from my background, in my position openly acknowledge the fact that he’s gay makes it a little bit easier for future generations to live their lives openly and without fear, all the better.” Here’s to even more celebrities, sports figures and politicians coming out in 2014.

COMING OUT: WHY IT MATTERS In 2012, former Carnegie Mellon University graduate Matt Bomer came out of the closet. The actor, best known for his role on the television show White Collar, and his turn as a male stripper in Magic Mike, has become an advocate for HIV/AIDS and a proponent of LGBT rights. On February 11, 2012, while giving an acceptance speech for the New Generation Arts and Activism Award for his work in the fight against HIV/AIDS at the Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards, Bomer publicly acknowledged for the first time that he is in a romantic relationship with Hollywood publicist Simon Halls. Bomer’s homosexuality had previously been considered an “open secret” in Hollywood, and he had refused to comment one way or the other about his relationship or orientation. Bomer once said, “What we really have to do is stop the adjective before the job title – whether it’s ‘black actor,’ a ‘gay actor’ or ‘anything actor.’ Everybody thinks that equality comes from identifying people and that’s not where equality comes from. Equality comes from treating everyone the same regardless of who they are.” Earlier this year, when Wentworth Miller came out in protest to Russia’s intolerance of LGBT rights and the anti-gay laws that had been enacted in that country, Bomer said, “Wow, I think it’s really bold and incredibly classy how he came out and did it,” he said. “I am really proud of him. It’s very reflective of his amazing character.” Bomer added that there is still “a long way to go” when it comes to tolerance in America. Until that day, we have to celebrate every celebrity who comes out.

FOOD

Cook like a Chef Eat like a Customer By Jay Obertance

Losing weight? Saving money? Developing better habits? These are all common New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resolutions but one of the things I resolve to do each year is to explore the Pittsburgh food scene. Pittsburgh has a wealth of amazing restaurants; I love to try new dishes and develop new ideas and inspiration to take into my own kitchen to make myself a better chef. If your New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resolution is to become better in the kitchen, then step back and prepare to take control of your kitchen with these simple tips that are informative and easy for any one! 22

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1. Read that recipe.

4. Salt is not your enemy!

8. Stock up on supplies.

Think of this step like a movie. You sit down and watch the movie and say, “Wow, what a good movie.” But, if you sat down and re-watched the exact same movie, you would pick up on things you didn’t notice the first time. A recipe is no different. Read the entire recipe. Then, read it again. Make sure you know every step that is coming up and where you should be for the next step. It not only ensures whatever you’re cooking comes out perfectly, it saves a hassle and a mess!

Salt can be your friend. Embrace salt and love it. If you’re a cook that tries every herb to spice up a dish you’re cooking in order to avoid using salt, I can guarantee it will taste bad. As chef Anne Burrell states, “Cooking with seasonal and fresh ingredients, you can salt with reckless abandonment and never even come close to something that’s processed or packaged.” Learn to love salt, and move on.

Keep your pantry stocked full of spices and ingredients and you’ll always ensure you have everything you need to make the recipe. Nothing is worse than when something calls for flour and you don’t have any (see also item #1 Read that recipe. and #2 Prep, Prep, Prep.). I can’t tell you how many home kitchens I’ve been in that don’t have the basics like butter, olive oil, flour and sugar.

5. Salt not pepper.

Take the time to get comfortable with your kitchen. Bust in there, rock it out, invite your friends over, and treat them to a fabulously prepared meal. I can’t think of a better New Year’s resolution than to cook like a restaurant chef, and then eat like a happy customer!

2. Prep, Prep, Prep. This step is probably the most important. We’ve all had the moment where we’re following a recipe and then it says “add the chopped bacon to the onions” and we realize we have yet to chop the bacon. So by the time we get the bacon chopped, the onions are burned because we weren’t prepared. DO YOUR PREP WORK! If the recipe calls for chopped onions, chop them before you start. If the recipe calls for torn basil, tear it and have it ready on stand-by to use when the recipe calls for it. Organization is the key to success. So, if you want a successful dinner, organize yourself and your ingredients.

3. Taste, then season. Taste again then season again. Remember when you were making chicken and went to taste it and realized it was as bland as cardboard. You added salt then tasted it again, and now it’s too salty. This is called the “cross my fingers and hope it comes out tasting good method.” Chances are this won’t work. You need to adapt the “food should taste good method.” Think of a recipe like Legos. You build upon each one. And if one block is faulty, the rest tumbles down. Well, if one step in your recipe is under seasoned, the finished dish is, you guessed it, under seasoned. If you don’t taste your food at all the steps throughout the cooking process then how are you going to know that the end result will be delicious?

Think of the relationship between the two as dating. They’re not married. Salt brings out natural flavors within the food, while pepper adds a strong spice note. They don’t need to be in every dish. Just because you salt something doesn’t mean pepper has to join. They can still go to separate parties. They’re only dating.

6. Fresh Herbs are yay! Dried herbs are nay.

IF YOU DON’T TASTE YOUR FOOD AT ALL THE STEPS THROUGHOUT THE COOKING PROCESS THEN HOW ARE YOU GOING TO KNOW THAT THE END RESULT WILL BE DELICIOUS?

To be honest, I’d rather use no herbs in my recipe than dried herbs. Dried herbs really don’t taste very good. And if you add something to your food that doesn’t taste good, what do you think will happen? Skip the dried herbs you always use in your dish and swap them out with their fresh counterpart, then try your recipe again. I bet you’ll be amazed.

7. Have the right equipment. When cooking anything, you need the correct tools. Don’t be afraid to stock that kitchen. Have some pans, have some pots, get some whisks, a small food processor, etc. Having the right tools for the job ensures perfect restaurant quality from your own kitchen. For instance, if a recipe calls for grilled chicken and you don’t have a grill, are you going to bake it? If you’re making a crust and don’t have a food processor, how are you going to get the graham crackers to the perfect consistency? Invest in your kitchen!

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TRAVEL

FANTASY FEST IN KEY WEST WAS HOT By Jack Ballas Photos by Jack Bellas

As you may know, Key West is one of my favorite places to actually get away. It embodies all of my escape essentials: Sun, unbeatable wine and cocktail selections, and fabulous dining options. I have traveled to Key West a number of times and all I ever heard from locals was “You have never done a Fantasy Fest?” I always thought that the appropriate way to ask was “You have never been here for Fantasy Fest?” But I can say with confidence that it is something you DO, not something you attend! Fantasy Fest 2013 was held October 18-27 24

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and the theme was “Super Heroes, Villains and Beyond.” The first Fantasy Fest was held in 1979 when two local businessmen organized a party to stimulate business. The event has escalated to a ten day celebration that includes balls, a parade, costume competitions, AIDS fundraisers, body painting, drag queen contests, costume parties, alcohol, and pet and neighborhood parades for the whole family. Fantasy Fest has grown to rival New Orleans’ Mardi Gras as an event drawing out-of-towners Do the math: 10 days, 24 hours per day equals 240 hours of partying! I am a firm

believer of “when in Rome, do as the Romans do” and I did. I went to every party and wore every outfit. I. WAS. TIRED. But it was so worth it! The only way I can best recall each day and advise a full-proof plan for fun is to share my staples: Breakfast, sun, cocktails, dinner and entertainment! Breakfast is a must. Especially after a fun night out and the best place on the island for a fun and a satisfying breakfast is Blue Heaven (blueheavenkw.com). The best “keep the party going” food and breakfast

cocktails live here. The sun will find you no matter where you go, so my best advice is to enjoy it and head out for cocktails. Key West is known for its key limes, more importantly, its Key Lime Martini. By far the bestI have found is at The White Tarpon located at 700 Front Street. You will think you are drinking a piece of key lime pie, but I promise you will feel better than if you ate it. As the evening rolls in, a fabulous dinner is always a must! Café Marquesa, found in the Marquesa Hotel (marquesa.com) will not disappoint! The menu is second to none and the wine list is the best on the island. In Key West, a night out is crucial, but before you close the night in true Key West fashion, you must pop into Adam Scott Rote Galleries Key West (adamscottrotegalleries. com) where the perfect combination of artists come together to create the most memorable experience to satisfy any art lover. After a five star meal and a five star art experience, what does a boy or girl want? A good old-fashioned drag show! There are a few fabulous choices on the Island, but my favorite is Sushi’s Girls (801girls.com) at 801 Bourbon Bar (801bourbon.com). The show is certain to put you in the mood to enjoy what Key West has to offer, or show your date what you have to offer! The 2014 Fantasy Fest theme is “Animéted Dreams and Adventures” and will be held October 17-26, 2014. For more info, visit fantasyfest.com

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

O F. T RG A P . W W W To find out how you can help us

FIND IT. TREAT IT. BEAT IT.

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NEW YEAR NEW YOU FEATURE

By Suzan Falvey Photos by Mara Rago Photography

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“You wanna hot body You wanna Bugatti You wanna Maserati You better work bitch.” --From the song “Work Bitch” by Britney Spears Happy New Year and welcome to 2014. ‘Tis the season of resolutions, but sadly most resolutions are broken shorty after they are made. So, how about when you make that resolution related to anything about the gym, you resolve to surrender. Yes, surrender to change. If you want a change to happen to your body, then something must change in your diet and/ or exercise habits. With change, comes change and little changes work best to start. If you already exercise but want to mix things up, increase the intensity, or switch the focus. If you want to start an exercise program, hire a certified trainer for a session or two at your local gym to help keep you accountable and motivated. You could use a trainer with a friend, split the cost, and improve the accountability (two peeps you have to report to). If you would rather work out at home or don’t have extra money for a trainer, or want to add to your gym routine, here’s the answer for you: the TRX ™ suspension training system. TRX is one of the best workout products of the decade (right up there with physioballs) and has revolutionized the fitness/ training industry. TRX is used in most top gyms and sports facilities these days for functional strength training and body weight resistance exercises. The TRX online community offers a plethora of training options, routines, exercise demonstrations and is an amazing resource for home exercise. The TRX system does cost about $170, but if you are thrifty and crafty, you can probably make one out of nylon webbed straps that you can buy at any outdoor or climbing store. How badly do you want a hot body, or to be stronger and fitter? Surrender to change, by doing the work needed to make the changes. Strong is the new skinny!

The WORKOUT This is one of my favorite full body workouts with the TRX straps. Start with one full circuit of these exercises and as you feel stronger progress to 2 or 3 rounds. 1. Warm-up for 1 minute of running in place, high stepping, jumping rope, jumping jacks, or other calisthenics.

Single Leg Lunches

2. Single leg Lunges: 15-20 repetitions for each leg. Keep your body weight in your legs, do not pull up with your arms. Lower your body until your front knee is at 90 degrees and in line with your toes, back leg can bend to 90 degrees as well. **If you have knee issues or want to start a little easier, do squats (both legs) instead of lunges, or do not lunge or squat as low as 90 degrees.

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4. Push-ups: 15-20 repetitions. Keep your body solid. Start with your arms straight and hands together. Lower your body until your arms are at 90 degrees out to the sides. Return to straight arms and hands together.

Triceps

Push-ups

Tuck and Planks

3. Triceps: 15-20 repetitions. Keep your body solid. Start with elbows up and pointing forward, lower your body down to touch your forehead to your knuckles. Return to straight arms.

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5. Plank and Tucks: 1520 repetitions. Start in plan position, begin your tuck by tightening your belly, lift your ‘booty’ high in the air, bring your knees tightly into your chest. Return to plank position.

7. High Rows: 15-20 repetitions. Keep your body solid. Pull your body up until your hands are at your armpits. Return to straight arms.

High Rows

Biceps

8. Plank Hold: Hold Plank position as long as you can (1 minute is a fine goal to start with or work up to.) DO NOT LET YOUR BACK SAG. 9. Repeat steps 1-8 one or two more times.

Plank Hold

6. Biceps: 15-20 repetitions. Keep your body solid and leaning back. Start with arms straight out in front of you, curl your arms to lift your body up until your forehead hits your knuckles. KEEP YOUR ELBOWS UP!! Return to straight arms.

If you want a new challenge, visit the TRX website at trxtraining.com for anything you want to train for, tone, tighten, strengthen or sport specific exercises. Before you begin any exercise program, be sure to get the proper approval from your physician. Suzan Falvey is the owner of Infinite Fitness, a semi-private exercise facility located in Lawrenceville. She has been a certified exercise specialist for 22 years. For more info, contact Suzanfalvey@aol.com or call 412-327-3330.

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COMMUNITY

Project

Silk By Stacey Federoff Photos courtesy of Project Silk

A community needed a voice and a space in Pittsburgh, now one year later, the efforts of Project Silk are continuing to move forward. With a space Downtown for young men and transgender women of color, the HIV prevention initiative began in January 2012 under the guidance of Mackey Friedman and the HIV Prevention and Care Project. “We’re pretty much entirely driven by suggestions brought forth by youth,” says Nayck Feliz, associate director. A youth advisory board is one of the committees that steers the organization, whose mission it is to serve African American and Latino young men and transgender women between ages 13 and 29 with a safe space. Feliz says Pittsburgh’s HIV statistics reflect those nationwide, which show that they are the highest risk.“They are some of the most stigmatized in the community. A lot of them end up homeless and not having the support from their families,” he says. Felix added, “The same urgency about HIV isn’t present today like it was during the early days of the disease, so young people need to be educated to help prevention efforts, while people who are positive need support and medical care. “Stigma is a huge killer in this fight,” he says. “It keeps people quiet and in the closet about their status.” 3 0

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Project Silk has hosted events like mini house drag balls and vogue competitions. They also provide HIV testing along with links to other resources such as organizations to help provide housing, job readiness and education assistance as well as drug and alcohol treatment. Feliz says itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also important for the larger LGBT community to help combat HIV by supporting those who do disclose their status, while practicing safe sex. With the new year, Project Silk is hoping to expand programming to include STI testing, self-defense classes, and a Facebook page. Anyone interested in donating, volunteering, or needing services should visit projectsilk.org to contact organizers. The HIV Prevention and Care Project is part of the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health and guided by the Pennsylvania Department of Health.

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FEATURE

COME OUT

LAUGHING

Comedy Tour Comes to Cruze Bar in the Strip

By Chrissy Costa The Come Out Laughing tour was started by Jason Dudey in 2008 after he decided to launch a gay, gay-friendly, who-cares-whoyou-are-or-who’s-in-your-bed comedy show in Southern California. Because the regular monthly show in Long Beach at the world famous Laugh Factory has gained so much success and national acclaim, three of the regular headlining comedians-- Jason Dudey, Dana Goldberg, and Ian Harvie--decided to join forces to launch a national tour that will bring the country a show that they have never seen before. Jason, Dana and Ian represent some of the best LGBT comedians on the circuit today. They have headlined clubs, theaters, festivals, universities and colleges all over the country and abroad. They have been seen on LOGO, Comics Unleashed, and Wisecrack. Each comic brings his or her own style to the stage, but the cohesion and brilliance of the show plays off of each comedian’s strength and delivers an edutaining slant on the LGBT community that will open your minds and your hearts and leave your sides hurting from laughter. 32

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Audience members gay and straight alike are raving about Come Out Laughing. If you love a sassy, sophisticated, quickwitted woman with something to say, then you may just fall in love with comedian Dana Goldberg. Dana built her career in comedy in her hometown of Albuquerque, NM and currently lives in Los Angeles where she’s heading into her 11th year as a stand-up comedian. Recently voted one of the Top Five Funniest Lesbians in America by Curve Magazine readers, she’s also competed in The Advocate’s STAND OUT national comedy competition and was one of the winners among 80 participating from around the country. And like most lesbians, she has a degree in Physical Education. I bet you’re wishing she was your gym teacher now, right? I had the pleasure of watching Dana perform live for the first time in Pittsburgh in November for her Crossing The Line tour. As a relatively new comedian myself, I’m always intrigued to learn about other comedians and the paths that have lead them to their dream. So when I saw Dana was giving a meet-and-greet after her

show I immediately grabbed my friend’s VIP badge and jumped in line. I thought, “Oh, I’m going to talk to this funny broad.” And that I did. After jumping into her arms while posing for a photo, I found her to be hilarious, accommodating and extremely down to earth. She agreed to an interview with Equal Magazine, and whether you’re a fan, an aspiring comedian, or sitting in your pajamas, I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did. EQ: Do you feel it’s difficult being a female comedian? What are the challenges of being a woman in comedy? DG: I definitely think there are still some challenges for women in comedy. The stigma is that men are just funnier... which isn’t true. There are some great male comedians, but there are also some REALLY bad ones. The same goes for female comics. I don’t think it’s difficult being a comedian at all; male or female. What is difficult is getting headlining gigs at comedy clubs and places like that. More than not, the headliners are male comedians and they might have a female

feature. There’s a few female headlining comics around the country that are working consistently, but in comparison, it’s a small number. That’s usually why I try and create my own work outside of the clubs. There are a lot of good producers and bookers out there who want to bring strong female comedians to different cities. You just have to find them. I was lucky enough to hook up with Nat Bookings and Productions who will be producing the Come Out Laughing Show that will hit Pittsburgh on Jan 24th. She’s been amazing.

safely on the ground at our destination city. I also have a Jameson on the rocks with two limes either during or right after my show depending on the venue. I’m not sure how that started, but it’s been really fun to continue that little tradition. I don’t think I’ll have a bad show if I don’t do it or anything like that. In fact, my liver would probably appreciate if I forgot a time or two. (I’m sure my mom loved reading that. ;))

EQ: Who was your comedic inspiration?

DG: I usually give myself a little pep talk back stage, look at myself in the mirror and say, “They are already here to see YOU so go out there and do what you do best! (outside of a bedroom). Just go out there and have fun!” Someone usually walks back stage right when that’s happening.

DG: Growing up I used to listen to tapes-yes I said tapes--of Robin Williams, Steven Wright, and a few other guys. I thought I just liked listening to comedy, but I think I was studying on some level. I loved watching old “Saturday Night Live” shows with Gilda Radner. She was so brilliant. Now I’m inspired by my colleagues. I love watching Erin Foley perform; she’s so good at her craft. There are so many talented men and women in my field and I’m honored to share the stage with them. EQ: Do you have any superstitions…in general or before a show? DG: I’m not a very religious person, more spiritual, but before each flight I “pray” to whatever higher power there is to get us

EQ: What do you think of right before you walk on stage?

EQ: Did you get to spend any time in Pittsburgh last month when you were in for your show? Did anything stand out? ...Or freak you out? DG: I didn’t get to spend a lot of time in Pittsburgh when I was here last time. It was a quick trip. But I had SO much fun at that show! Cruze Bar is a fantastic performance space. I’m glad Rick Santorum was out of the state and last time I was here, your giant rubber ducky had just left the state as well. I’m not going to lie; I would have liked to have seen that thing floating down the

river. I would just be messing with people that were high. “Giant yellow rubber duck?? I definitely don’t see it; you need to lay off the weed.” EQ: Is there any random info you’d like to share? DG: This coming year is actually going to be fantastic! I just launched my new website and have to thank fellow comedian, Ian Harvie for that. I also released my new CD “Crossing The Line.” Those are available for download on my website and will be in hard copy soon. I’ll have some at the show in Pittsburgh. I think one of the things I’m most proud of though is my charity work to help raise money for foundations across the country. Over the last four years I’ve helped to raise over a million dollars for the Human Rights Campaign. And ladies, don’t forget, she likes Jameson on the rocks. Two limes. If you missed Dana during her last trip, she’s coming back to Pittsburgh on January 24 at 8 PM at Cruze Bar with comedian’s Jason Dudey and Ian Harvie for their Come Out Laughing tour. Tickets available at www.showclix.com/event/ ComeOutLaughingComedyGroup For more information on Dana Goldberg please visit danagoldberg.com

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CAREER

January is National Mentoring Month By Joe Corcoran What is a mentor? The Oxford Dictionary defines it as “an experienced and trusted adviser.” Whether we’re mindful of it or not, we all have had someone in our lives who has helped us transform into the individual we are today. Mentors are all around us. They are our parents and friends, co-workers and supervisors, television personalities, and even top 40 musicians. Their importance in our lives is something we often overlook, but without their presence we are simply basic human beings. January is National Mentoring month and is a time to reflect on those who have inspired us, but also to help bring about change in the lives of others. Established in 2002 by the Harvard School of Public Health and the National Mentoring Partnership, National Mentoring month is about fostering positive change and development in the lives of America’s young people. The next generations of LGBT leaders are upon us, and it is our duty to act as their mentors to 34

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ensure that they receive the knowledge and support necessary to continue the fight for equality. At first glance Emmett Patterson appears to be just another student at American University’s Washington, D.C. campus. However, passing him off as just another sheep in the crowd would be discounting this sophomore Gender and Sexuality studies major of all the achievements he has made thus far. At only 19-years-old, Patterson has accomplished more than most students his age can attest to. Patterson, who identifies as a trans* man, was named the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network’s (GLSEN) Student Advocate of the Year in 2011. A Pittsburgh native, he founded Trinity High School’s Gay-Straight Alliance-the first of its kind in Washington County. He currently attends American University where he serves as the director of the university’s LGBTQA student group’s Trans

Advocacy Project, and is a full-time intern at the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force. Patterson’s journey wasn’t an easy one. While growing up in Southwestern Pa., his high school did not offer protections from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. He was bullied and even assaulted, but then…a spark. Patterson met Dr. Mary Jo Podgurski, a sex educator, humanitarian and co-founder of Washington County Gay-Straight Alliance. “I really look at her as the start of my activism career,” Patterson said. “She worked with a lot of marginalized communities in Washington County, and I think that she was really the one that got me into it.” Patterson recognizes the importance for LGBT young people like himself, to have mentors within the LGBT and Ally community. “I never really met an out trans person until I was in college, and I

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.

remember when I was in high school I was coming out feeling like I was the only one and that there was no hope for me,” he recalled. For those who may feel uncomfortable reaching out to someone for help or support as a mentor, Patterson recommends looking to LGBT organizations for help. “I think it’s all about reaching out to the top. Reach out to the National Center for Trans Equality, reach out to all these big organizations because you’ll be surprised that there might be someone close to you that you know,” he said. “It’s always about putting yourself out there, specifically in social justice places where it’s not necessarily as volatile if you come out.” Many educational institutions and non-profit organizations offer mentoring programs or empowerment groups where LGBT young people can find fellowship and support. Locally, Dreams of Hope works to empower LGBT and allied teens to spread awareness through the creative and performing arts.

The University of Pittsburgh’s Rainbow Alliance and Carnegie Mellon University’s ALLIES groups hold social and educational events within their student communities. Many public and private high schools throughout the region have student led gay-straight alliances, the GLCC holds programming for youth on Friday’s from 7-10 p.m. “It’s really important to have figureheads who are out and trans and very proud and successful in their activism,” Patterson said. “But, I think it’s almost more important to have someone right there with you, because when I started meeting people who had already been through what I had, I instantly felt more empowered to do things, I felt like I had a place, and for once I felt normal.” Younger generations can put themselves out there and find friendly mentors through their experiential learning and extracurricular activities, but as a whole we should actively seek to become mentors in our daily lives. Assisting a non-profit

organization with adolescent volunteer work, providing informational interviews to young LGBT’s seeking employment or professional growth, using your office’s after hours socials to connect with young employees and interns, participating in community outreach and scholarship programs to provide assistance to homeless and displaced youth, and attending benefits or donating to organizations that promote youth leadership and activism are just a few of the many ways you can participate. Whether you are a mentor, decide to become one, or support others who do, you can play a vital role in making this year’s National Mentoring month a success within the LGBT and allied community. All it takes is a little extra time and patience, a willingness to share knowledge and inspire growth, and a genuine ability to stand up, step out and take the lead.

Tell your friends! Bring your co-workers! Alert the media! Join us at these upcoming dates for Xtreme Bingo:

Saturday, February 8 Sunday, March 30 Sunday, April 27 Get your tickets online at pittsburghpride.org/tickets or call 888-71-TICKETS

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Financial planning can help you pursue your goals. UBS is uniquely positioned to help you tap into the opportunities of today’s global economy. Our expertise and resources are aligned to deliver wealth planning strategies in line with our clients’ needs and goals. With clear priorities and a plan in place, it’s easier to feel more confident about your future. We can discuss how UBS Financial Planning Services can work for your personal circumstances and how we can get started. 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

Lee Oleinick was named to Barron’s Top 1,000 Financial Advisors in 2012 and 2013.

We will not rest

*Barron’s Top 1000 FInancial Advisor is based on asset 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 understand the ways in which we conduct business and that they carefully read the agreements and disclosures that we provide to them about the products or services we offer. For more information clients should speak with their Financial Advisor or visit our website at ubs.com/workingwithus. UBS Financial Services and its affiliates do not provide legal or tax advice. Clients should consult with their legal and tax advisors regarding their personal circumstances. ©UBS 2013. All rights reserved. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC. 1.32_Ad_8.375x10.875_OJ1216_OleL 0613015 EXP. 04/06/15

DO’S & DON’TS

S A W THAT

O S

T S LA

! R YEA

By Joe King

Trends and bad habits we can live without in 2014 SELFIES

Yes, it was selected as Oxford Dictionary’s word of the year for 2013 and yes we are all walking around with a camera phone but it’s one trend that could never show its ugly face again (pun intended) and not be missed. We can also dump the “model mouth,” “duck lips,” “sideways-peace sign,” and the “standard middle finger” pose from our social media repertoire. By all means capture those special moments with family and friends but don’t forget to actually BE in the moment too. And with social media experiencing new rules and regulations you could stand to curtail the half naked, barely dressed, excessive cleavage sharing photos of your new tattoo. Keep in mind potential employers are now checking social media to get a glimpse of the real you. Keep it classy. (Don’t even get us started on the random foodie pics.)

UGGS

The name says it all. They may be the gateway shoe to orthopedic footwear with Velcro straps. Yes, Uggs are comfortable to throw on to keep your feet warm in the snow, or around the ski lodge but when they start becoming your “go to” footwear choice to run to the grocery store, airport or night out on the town, then you know you’ve got a real problem and you should seek help from a trusted, stylish friend. This also includes other ugly foot wear trends like “Toe Shoes”, Crocks, flip flops in the winter and anything neon because unless you are an Olympic athlete or Tron, few people can pull off these trends.

SMOKING

Sadly, many people still smoke, but any random internet search will inform you of the dangers of cigarette smoking and the thousands of studies, facts and benefits of quitting. Maybe this will be the year you cut 3 8

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back, curtail and even eventually quit for good. With the support from family, friends, nicotine gum and patches you can do it.

BAG IT

We’re talking the annoying white and blue plastic grocery store bags. Many cashiers like to load up these bags with just one item per bag resulting in more plastic in your home, our landfills and ocean. If you must use a plastic bag, try to maximize your take home bags bye doubling up and filling it full with groceries. You could always go green and bring your own chic canvas bag or if you are only picking up a few items, try NO BAG.

TANNING

Yes everyone looks great with a tan, except maybe Sharon Needles, but no one should look like a “Cheeto” or “Tan Mom.” The long-term advance aging effects of searing your skin like an Ahi tuna can be found all over the World Wide Web and sadly all over your face. Consider spray tans and bronzers as a healthier alternative for a golden glow.

TWERKING

Yes every generation has its controversial dance craze, from Elvis’s pelvis to the Y.M.C.A. to dirty dancing and vogueing. Let’s hope twerking and convulsing like your booty is having a seizure falls by the wayside along with The Chicken Dance and the Maccarena.

UNPLUG 2 CONNECT

Don’t let social media, computer games, email, text messaging and Grindr keep you from making a real life connection. Try and stay engaged with the folks sharing your dinner, night out together, or family moments. In 2014, there will always be time to check out the latest twerking-selfie video that someone posted when they were dancing upside down in their Uggs in the tanning booth.

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Pittsburgh Public Theater 621 Penn Ave

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Equa lMa ga z ine.org

E FOR EFFORT

It’s Time for

U L O RES By Michael Buzzelli

The New Year has begun and it’s time to dust off last year’s New Year’s resolution and recycle it. Did anyone stay on their New Year’s resolution all of 2013? Did anyone make it past Valentine’s Day? Resolution is a word that everyone uses in January, but it is seldom spoken in June. No one uses the word “resolve” in a sentence unless they are talking about a carpet cleaning product. Nonetheless here are ten very common resolutions people make each year. Is one of these yours?

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! S N O I T U 1. Eat healthy and exercise regularly.

Technically, that’s two things, but you shouldn’t do one without the other. Running five miles a day just so you can feel guiltless while you scarf down a Snickers bar seems counter-productive. Eating healthy is the key. The trick is doing it every day. Most of our foods should come from the earth, like fresh fruits and vegetables. You can get into some gray areas when you start thinking “Doritos are mostly corn.” As for the exercise portion of the equation, remember that most gym memberships jump up in price and membership every January. The fine people at Gold’s, LA Fitness, and Bally’s are counting on you to make exercise your goal for the New Year. Each one of them offers discounts through the first month of the year. It’s a good time to join. Read your contract before you sign, or really commit and lose those extra pounds. The trick is not regretting. Instead of finding a gym close to home, find one close to work. It might be easier to go straight there if you’re already in the neighborhood.

2. Drink Less.

It makes sense because New Year’s Eve is one of the busiest bar nights of the year and a lot of people wake up with hangovers on January 1. Two years ago, I woke up every Saturday and Sunday with a hangover. I wasn’t even drinking. Technically, I was waking up with a boyfriend WITH a hangover.

3. Learn something new.

Again.

The third most popular resolution is to learn something new. Well. You just learned that that the third most popular resolution is “learn something new.” It’s true. You learn something new every day. I give. I’m a giver.

4. Quit smoking.

It’s gross and you should quit anyway. It’s stinky, your breath and your clothes smell. If you don’t quit buy lots of gum, Listerine and Febreze.

5. Volunteer.

9. Read more.

Hey, you’re reading Equal Magazine! It’s not exactly The Kite Runner, but it should count for something. Heck, buy a subscription. Then you’ll at least be reading something once a month for the rest of the year! That’s a great way to stay on top of your New Year’s resolution.

10. Finish a “To Do” list. Writing this article was the last item I had to check off my To Do list this week. I’m done.

There are a lot of great organizations that could use your help. Get on it. You’ll feel great and you might meet new friends with similar interests. Lots of local LGBT organizations need your help. Pitch in, give back and be fabulous at the same time.

DID ANYONE STAY ON THEIR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION ALL OF 2013? DID ANYONE MAKE IT PAST VALENTINE’S DAY? RESOLUTION IS A WORD THAT EVERYONE USES IN JANUARY, BUT IT IS SELDOM SPOKEN IN JUNE.

6. Saving money.

It’s sixth on the list. It’s also no fun. It’s okay to be frugal, just don’t be cheap. When your friends are bellying up to the bar and buying a round, don’t disappear when it’s your turn. That’s my trick!

7. Better Work/Life Balance.

This is important. Unfortunately, it placed down at seventh on the list. Priorities, people! That leads us directly to number eight…

8. Get organized.

If you were organized, you would have placed Better Work/Life Balance higher on the list.

Equa lMa ga z ine.org

EVENTS

What’s Gay and Goin’ on?

Thanksgiving Bake-Off @ Spin

photos by Marsha Monster Mellow

Photos by G. Michael Beigay World AIDS Day Downtown

photo by Michael Rom

Three Rivers Leather Club

Gay for Good Toy Drive with Marsha @ 5801

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Honors Ball @ The Warhol

Giving Thanks @ Bill Chisnell Productions

photos by T Entertainment

photos by John Colombo

Renaissance City Choirs Holiday Concert @ East Liberty Presbyterian

Lola LeCroixâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s VAIN @ CAVO iCandy @ Cruze Bar

photos by iCandy

Equa lMa ga z ine.org

COMING TOGETHER

Delta Foundation & Lambda Foundation to

JOIN FORCES By Christine Bryan The Delta Foundation of Pittsburgh, the leading lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) organization in Western Pennsylvania, has accepted an offer from the Lambda Foundation to join forces to continue its long-time tradition of awarding grants and scholarships in support of the LGBT community. While this may come to surprise some of our “seasoned” community members, there may be some of you who may have never heard of the Lambda Foundation. For over 30 years, the organization has had an incredible impact in Pittsburgh’s LGBT community with over $1,000,000 in grants and scholarships awarded. I recently had the pleasure of talking with Lambda founders August “Buzz” Pusateri and Chuck Honse about how the Lambda Foundation was formed, learn a bit of history, and understand just what the future holds for this new venture. 44

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EQ: When the Lambda Foundation was formed in 1983, it was an interesting time in history for the LGBT community in Pittsburgh. Tell me what was happening. BP: Well, AIDS was really beginning to make an impact. The Centers for Disease Control had determined that sexual contact and infected blood could transmit the virus, so the gay community was scared. Formal tracking of all AIDS cases was starting in the U.S. and the National Institute of Health selected Pittsburgh as a focus city and began to solicit volunteers at the bars to donate blood. I volunteered to donate blood, but keep in mind that there was test yet, so my blood was stored. They were looking for samples from 125 men. This was really starting the initial formation of the Pitt Men’s Study of which I continue to be a member of to this day. EQ: How was the community handling it in Pittsburgh?

CH: Back then, gay people went to the bars. There was no social networking. No online sites. You met people in the bars. You lived your “straight” life during the week, and your “gay life” on Friday and Saturday nights. And your two lives never really crossed. People were starting to get sick. You could see it on their faces. And of course, there was also the rumor mill! EQ: Tell me about the bar scene back then. I remember going to Zack’s and Pegasus. CH: Yes, they were very popular. There was the Holiday in Oakland, which I owned with Chuck Tierney. Donny owned The Norreh. There was David’s, Pegasus, and the Tender Trap. Travelers that Lucky Johns owned, who was the first openly gay man to run a gay bar. He also ran for Mayor (laughing). When the community needed anything, they went to the bar owners. Persad started in 1979, the GLCC was operating in conjunction

GARY VAN HORN HAD BOUGHT IMAGES, AND PETER AND STEVE STARTED CLUB PITTSBURGH. AND THE THREE OF THEM DECIDED TO HOLD A FUN HOLIDAY PARTY, WHICH THEY CALLED SPARK, TO RAISE MONEY TO HELP THE GLCC BUILDING FUND AS THEY WERE BEING EVICTED FROM THEIR SPACE IN SQUIRREL HILL. with Persad as a phone information line, and MCC and Dignity were starting to form in the faith community. But the bars were where the community was going in mass. EQ: Tell me how the Lambda Foundation came to be. BP: It was 1983 and a group of mostly bar owners were running the picnics in North Park. Back then they called themselves the Golden Triangle PICNIC Association, and eventually became the Tavern Guild. CH: There was one picnic on Memorial Day and one on Labor Day and they were huge money makers. This group realized very quickly that they needed to form an organization because they wanted to figure out a way to do some real good in the community and give the money away. It was decided that the initial board would have nine members representing three areas of the community. BP: From the bar owners were Ron Kiniry (Tender Trap), Lucky Johns (House of Tilden) and you (gesturing to Chuck). From the community, there was me, Sharon Sutton, and Karon Van Gelder. And representing the organizations were Norm Mackin, Herb Beatty, and Randy Forrester. EQ: So this group would meet and a process was developed to give the money back to the community? BP: The community needed help. People were scared, they were getting sick, and they were dying. They needed money for transportation to and from the doctor’s, money to help pay the electric bill, and in many cases, money to help with funeral expenses. The first grants were given out in 1984.

EQ: And that’s when the Pittsburgh AIDS Task Force started. BP: Yes. Kerry Stoner was approached by some folks from the Pitt Men’s Study Community Advisory Board to start an organization for people with AIDS. There was a real need to help people navigate the insurance process, find a doctor, help with medications, etc. The Lambda Foundation actually provided the seed money for him to start the organization. EQ: And then Shepherd Wellness soon followed? BP: Correct. Father Lynn Edwards, who at the time was the pastor at the Church of Good Shepherd in Hazelwood, had stepped forward and was helping families navigate through the faith community with those that passed away from AIDS. It quickly became apparent that there was a network of people who wanted to get together and share information and experiences. Remember, there was no Internet at this time where you could just Google information. Father Lynn and a group of volunteers would make dinner and invite people to come and eat and then meet afterwards. When the First United Methodist Church invited them to hold their dinners there, that’s when Herb Beatty and the “Friends of Wellness” holiday dinner started in December. EQ: And Herb went to the bar owners for help? CH: Yes, and did they ever! There was so much food that was donated for those dinners…turkey’s, hams, and the desserts!

EQ: So AIDS had hit the community. Persad was offering counseling services. The Pitt Men’s Study was on the forefront of research. PATF was providing social services. Shepherd Wellness was helping people and families deal with a disease that had a horrible stigma. And Lambda was raising money with the picnics, and later the Beaux Arts Ball black-tie events, and awarding grants twice a year to a myriad of LGBT organizations including ACLU Pittsburgh, Bet Tikvah, CMU Out, Shepherd Wellness, Women’s Law Project, Renaissance City Choirs, PFLAG Pittsburgh, Western PA Freedom to Marry, and a host of others. What happened next? CH: The picnics were really big events. There were thousands of people who would come. And one year, Mother Nature decided to rain on our parade…or picnic. We had a horrible storm and lost a lot of money. Some of the board members were also starting to get concerned about liability. A vote was held to stop doing the picnics and the Softball League, who had been involved for many years helping with the meal planning, stepped forward and offered to do it. They then made the decision was also made to move it to South Park. That was not a popular decision (laughing). EQ: But the bar owners who were on the board didn’t agree with the decision? CH: They did not. The picnics were a tradition. They were making a lot of money and obviously that money was being used to do some great things in the community and it didn’t make a lot of sense to stop that. So Donny and I left the board, and decided we would go back to running them, which we did as part of Tavern Guild, so it wasn’t a big

deal for us. And Chuck Tierney and Bill Kaelin helped. This was around 1996. And just like we did with Lambda, we decided to form our own organization and that’s how the Delta Foundation got created. EQ: And it was clear that the community supported this and wanted the picnics to continue. CH: Yes, as long as they moved them back to North Park (laughing). The bar scene had really changed. We had lost several bar owners to AIDS, and business had slowed down for a while during the late 80s and early 90s. The normal cycle of business was happening…bars were closing, new places were opening, and ownership had changed. But those picnics were very important. The Memorial Day picnic was the official kick off to summer. BP: Pride was happening but it was very different. People were angry. People were dying and didn’t feel like anything was being done. They were yelling and screaming for their rights to be heard. It was a very sad period of time there for a while as people were getting sick and dying and the community wanted an event where they could have some fun. CH: And there were new up-and-coming community members who wanted to get involved and do things. Gary Van Horn had bought Images, and Peter and Steve started Club Pittsburgh. And the three of them decided to hold a fun holiday party, which they called Spark, to raise money to help the GLCC building fund as they were being evicted from their space in Squirrel Hill. Nearly $23,000 was raised in just 6 weeks. And the following year, the event raised $12,000 for Persad. EQ: And then the first Pride in the Street happened? CH: Yes. Pride had moved to the North Side. There was a march and organizations would set-up booths and there were speakers and such. Gary, Peter and Steve wanted to do something downtown so they decided to plan a street concert where people could come and dance. I was sure this would be a failure!

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EQ: (laughing) You know the City thought they were crazy. They initially denied their special event permit because they couldn’t fathom closing Liberty Avenue down. And no one had ever served alcohol on the street. BP: Well, I’m glad they got it approved, because it was a terrific event. EQ: (singing) “I think we’re alone now….” EQ: So it was around this time that the GLCC realized they needed to really focus on finding a building and could no longer plan Pride. BP: Right. So they went to Gary, Peter and Steve and asked for their help. And they agreed. There was an agreement set up and they gave the GLCC a donation. They also assumed their debt, which I don’t think they were expecting! EQ: So how did the Delta Foundation factor into all this? CH: Just like everyone else, Gary, Peter and Steve quickly realized they needed to form a non-profit organization. We, the board of the Delta Foundation, which remember was running the picnics, saw the success this new group was having and decided to help and turned over the Delta Foundation name to them. The founding Delta members remain as emeritus board members to this day. EQ: So in a very short period of time, the Delta Foundation had Pride to plan and the picnics as well? CH: They did. EQ: So here we are, into a New Year, and another change is happening. BP: (laughing) Some would call it a full-circle moment. The Lambda Foundation has been realizing for some time that a change was needed and we’re just very excited that the Delta Foundation has agreed to accept our

offer. They are in the best position to offer a long-term, stable environment as well as a capable steward for our assets. EQ: And the Lambda name will continue under the name Lambda Giving. BP: And the grants will continue and the funds will remain and I will be joining the Delta board along with Chuck Lukehart and Patrick Journet. It’s really an exciting time for both organizations and more importantly, the LGBT community. CH: I definitely see it as a full circle- moment. Buzz and I started out together with Lambda in 1983, had a “parting of the ways,” and now we are all back together again. I can’t be more thrilled that this has happened. For more information, contact info@deltafoundation. us or (412) 322-2800.

The Delta Foundation of Pittsburgh is pleased to announce

Over $12,500 in grants are available! INNOVATION AND DEVELOPMENT GRANTS

BUZZ PUSATERI ALPHA TO OMEGA AIDS FUND

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 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.

Lambda Giving is a project of the Delta Foundation of Pittsburgh

THE JAMIE STICKLE FUND The Jamie Stickle Fund supports womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s/lesbian health issues with a focus on raising selfesteem and preventing abuse.

For more information contact info@deltafoundation.us or call 412-322-2800 Grant deadline is February 1, 2014