Equal Oct 2014

Neon Hitch & Steve Grand rock

Nightmare on Hellsworth

OCT 2014

s ing die t! h c wit o la gh Our be t i

r te tribu he f

of t

REEL Q Film Festival A complete guide.

Pittsburgh welcomes

Interpride Conference

Bringing together the LGBTI Pride Movement.

Gay Bowlers

strike it up in the alley.

tinues n o c y t r a p e e Prid This June, th City at NYC Pride! in New York

Q<F NEW YORK CITY

HERITAGE OF PRIDE

RGH U B S

!

P I R T D A O R PITT

NE W

YORK CI

TY

5 1 0 2 , 9 2 e n y, Ju a d n o M 6 2 e

Friday, Jun

THE LARGER YOUR GROUP, THE CHEAPER IT IS! Six payments of only:

= $75 per month = $90 per month = $125 per month

YOUR PACKAGE INCLUDES: ROUND TRIP Professional coach bus transportation 3 NIGHT HOTEL STAY in downtown New York City ALL taxes, fees & gratuities

= $175 per month

Register at deltafoundation.us/NYCPride or by calling 412-322-2800

REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS DECEMBER 31!

CONTRIBUTORS & THANK YOU’S

G. Michael Beigay is a free-lance 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 Observer-Reporter newspaper, is available at Amazon.com.

Jahmeela Clarke Jahmeela Clarke is a Pittsburgh native, born and raised in Penn Hills with her three sisters. A graduate of the University of Pittsburgh via Kent State. She likes writing about local events, national crazes and home-grown artists.

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

Are YOU interested in writing for Equal Magazine?

Email joek@equalmagazine.com 4

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Jonathan Fobear is a native of Cass City, MI. For 12 years he has been an art director branding non-profits, 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.

Guest contributors: John Colombo Joe Corcoran Drue Miller Rick Sicilio Jake Toloso

Masha Vereshchenko Special Thanks: Cover photo by Mara Rago Cover Models: Blade Mathews, Marsha Monster Mellow, Jezebel Bebbington D’Oppulence, Joe King

IT’S HERE. THE OCTOBER TEST-DRIVAPALOOZA.

WITH LOVE

Dear Friends Welcome to the October issue and welcome to Fall.

Our cover this month pays “homo”age to one of our all time favorite flicks The Witches of Eastwick. We wanted to scare up a little creativity this Halloween season so we reached out to a few of our favorite queer as folks to help us recreate the iconic movie poster. Special thanks to photographer Mara Rago, Creative Director Jonathan Fobear and models Blade Mathews, Marsha Monster Mellow and Jezebel Bebbington for sharing their magic to help us conjure up a memorable cover. You can read our fun tribute to the wicked ones from TV and film on page 42.

Speaking of films, the Reel Q- Pittsburgh Lesbian and Gay Film Festival kicks off this month in the B’urgh and we’ve included a schedule and highlights of all the can’t miss films that will be screened as part of the festival. Check out the interview with Mitch Leib, Executive Director of the festival on page 16 Pittsburgh also rolls out the rainbow carpet this month to welcome friends from all over the world for the 32nd Annual InterPride 2014 AGM Conference.

InterPride is the International Association of Organizations that produce Pride events around the globe. We cant wait to play host and demonstrate why Pittsburgh has been named “Most livable City” Check out the story on page 32.

We’ve also got an interview with international pop diva Neon Hitch who will be haunting the streets of Pittsburgh later this month when she commands the stage for a special show this Halloween. Page 28.

There are many more Tricks and Treats to be unmasked, including a revealing read about dressing up for a frightful good time. Page 36. Orange is the new Jack O’Lantern and pumpkins are deliciously featured on page 14. We treat you to plenty of eye candy with a “woof” of a bear in our regular feature “Hot Guy Reads A Book”. Page 46. Plus so much more for you to feast on including an interview with a local funeral director. Page 22.

As we were going to print, I learned of another public figure who recently announced his homosexuality. It inspired me to leave you with a quote another memorable witch, Glinda, and encourage you all to… ”Come Out, Come Out Wherever You Are” LGBTQIA Visibility Everywhere Always, Joe King

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WHAT PAGE IS THAT ON?

FEATURES

16

28

32

OCTOBER

16 Reel Q: The complete festival schedule 28 Nightmare on Elsworth with Neon Hitch 32 Interpride: global conference for pride organizers lands in Pittsburgh

42 Witch, Please: our favorite evil queens

IN (ALMOST) EVERY ISSUE

10 Calendar 12 Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gay and Going on?

14 Good gourd! pumpkins are here 20 Along Came Poly: Open relationships 22 Death planner gives some pre-funeral tips 26 Queer Seen by Masha 30 Travel: Rehobeth Beach 34: Big gay bowling league 36: The Fantasy of Dressing Up 37: Scariest Lesbian Costumes 38: Cooking for One 40: Halloween Activities 46: Big Gay Map 48: Hot Guy reads a book

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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*

Editor-in-Chief 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

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.

MONDAY

monday TRIVIA WITH DJ COLT

THIS OCTOBER PLAY THE DEVIL’S ADVOCATE

EVERY THURSDAY

KARAOKE

EVERY TUESDAY & FRIDAY

SHOT BOYS HAPPY HOUR

Mon-Fri 5-7 PM Sat-Sun 10 PM-midnight

DJ’S EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY! DAILY SPECIALS

@

MON TUES WED THURS FRI SAT Sun

$3 $4 $2 $3 $4 $3 $2

Captain Morgan Long Island Iced Teas Coors Light bottles Captain Morgan Long Island Iced Teas Pinnacle vodka Coors Light bottles

965 Liberty Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15222 (412) 391-9990 Open 2 PM to 2 AM 365 days a year!

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Oct STAY BUSY

1-5

4:30pm

10

Pittsburgh Public Theater ppt.org

Fri

8pm Benedum Center 412-456-6666

9pm-2am THERE Ultra Lounge

4800 Sciota St. Pgh 15224

14

Tues

JACKSON BROWNE Free HIV

14 Tues

Oct 22

noon-5 pm PERSAD CENTER 5150 Penn ave.

24

- Jan 18

CLO Cabaret Pittsburghclo.org

TRANSREVOLUTION 8pm Consol Energy Center412-642-1800

Fri

10

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SUMMIT

gardenofpeaceproject.org

Oct 28

Come in costume!

7-11pm

16- 19

BLACK

Testing

7:30 Benedum Center 412-456-6666

David

Gray

PARTY

Light meal and coping with stigma support group meeting

- Nov 2

The Glass Menagerie

by Tennessee Williams

AY 80s, 90s, & TOD

Wellness Dinner

Sun

Oct 2

TheHeinz Hall Pajama Men City Theater

10 Fri

Wed Oct 8

12

Wed-Sun

- Nov 2

Benedum Center 412-456-4800

5

4 Sat

Tuesdays

7:30- 10pm Hosted by Marsha Monster Mellow 5801 Ellsworth Ave. Shadyside

10 Fri

REALIME T

AND CHRISSY COSTA

ICandy will be collecting funds to benefit a member of our community who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer.

P-Flag Butler meeting Covenant Presbyterian Church

8pm Cruze Bar

11 Sat

Oct 11-

JASON MRAZ & RAINING JANE

City Theater citytheatercompany.org

5-7pm GLCC 210 Grant St.

16 Thurs

Nov 7

Benedum Center 8pm 412-456-6666

A meeting for LGBTQ friends and allies ages 14-21 who reject negative labels and want to overcome difficulties in a positive way.

16 Thurs

Sun

NPR presents:

19 Sun Kierra Darshell presents

Miss Tri-State

All-Star Newcomer

SPIRIT DAY

Pageant

benefits GLCC Youth Programming 7-10pm Info@glccpgh.org

with Mari Jane Cruze Bar Strip Dist.

8pm

Benedum Center 412-456-6666

25

Sat

Comedian

Kevin James Heinz Hall 412-392-4900

1

Nov

Fetish 101 Cruze Bar 8pm-2am Fetishpgh.tumblr.com

After party-HONCHO: Fetish 102 Mid-7am @ Hot Mass 1139 Penn

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EVENTS

What’s Gay and Goin’ on?

Gay 4 Good 3rd Anniversary @ Spin

Photos by G. Michael Beigay

Taste Budz Summer Picnic

Steeler’s First Home Game @ 5801

Sept Equal Launch Party @ Social Bar Bakery Square

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G2H2 @ Easy Street

Equality PA End of Summer Picnic

Persadsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Donut Dash 5K and Walk

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OFF THE VINE

! d r d u o Go Go The pumpkin invasion is upon us

By Philip Ezzo

E q u al M agazine.org

!

It has come to a point now where we can have pumpkin flavored EVERYTHING. From our coffee, to our waffles, to our curry, there are so many ways to enjoy the warm mixture of spices and pumpkin puree.

Did you know that the pumpkin plant is one of the most durable plants? The only continent in the entire world that cannot support the growth of pumpkins is Antarctica, and believe me, nothing grows down there. It is quite the remarkable entity.

In fact, the pumpkin is one of the most versatile items for use in the kitchen. Almost the entire gourd is edible. The seeds, the shell, the leaves, and even the flours can be prepared in some fashion or another, in addition to the ever-popular fleshy center. I, myself, am a huge fan of roasted and salted pumpkin seeds.

From “Cinderella” to “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” it is steeped in folklore and fiction. It is evident that the pumpkin holds a very special place in our hearts as well as in our bellies. In any given town across America there are a number of fall festivals in which the pumpkin plays a huge roll.

Some gatherings are actually entirely devoted to the great orange globe. For those interested, the second Saturday of October has been designated as International Pumpkin Day, and is celebrated in several countries around the world.

Around this time of the year, we not only like to bake or cook with pumpkin, but also we like to participate in a little ritual involving the carving of the gourd into a Jack o’lantern. In Irish and Scottish tradition, pumpkins have been carved to represent the faces of goblins on the holiday which we now call Halloween. They were originally used to light the path of “guisers,” or children in disguise, as they travel from house to house looking for treats, and maybe a few tricks.

that comes in a can, but have you ever wanted to try your hand at making it from scratch? It’s a little involved, but it’s definitely worth the effort. If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably pictured the stringy, seedy pulp innards as the material you’d be working with, and it turns you off. No one was more pleased than I to learn that it is actually the inside of the rind, which is used. That other stuff can just get thrown away. Here’s a great recipe for homemade mashed pumpkin puree, for those that are interested…

TO PREPARE THE PUMPKIN PUREE: Use 1 1/2 pounds of skin-on, raw pumpkin to yield 2 cups of puree.

Halve pumpkin and scoop out seeds and stringy portions.

Cut pumpkin into chunks.

In saucepan over medium heat, in 1 inch of boiling water heat the pumpkin to a boil.

Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 30 minutes or until tender.

Drain, cool and remove the peel.

Return pumpkin to the saucepan and mash with a potato masher.

Once this is all completed, you can use it in your favorite pumpkin pie recipe. Your traditional family recipe doesn’t have to be altered to enjoy a fresher taste. Simply bake your crust and filling as normal and enjoy the results!

Nowadays, grocery and craft stores have helped us take a lot of the guesswork out of carving these bulbous hunks of vegetable with prepackaged kits and fancy power tools to help get the job done.

The surface of a pumpkin also lends itself well to painting. A well-known consequence of carving a pumpkin is that it shortens the shelf life of your creation immensely. Keeping the pumpkin intact, whilst painting a design on the outside is great for longevity.

Most of us eat pumpkin pies made with filling

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FEATURE FILMS

By Mike Buzzelli Mitch Leib loves movies. As the Executive Director Reel Q, Pittsburgh’s International LGBT Film festival, Leib is proud to introduce you to a slew of new movies for the 29th Annual festival.

of ‘Blackbird.’ The movie stars Mo’nique (Best Supporting Actress Oscar, “Precious”) and Isiah Washington (“Grey’s Anatomy”) as parents dealing with their son’s sexuality.”

Leib has been with the Lesbian and Gay Film Society (PLGFS) steadily since 2007 (he had a brief stint with the organization from 2002-2004 but returned in 2007). He has spent the last five years as the executive director. The mission of the PLGFS has been to celebrate LGBT culture and foster appreciation and visibility through film.

Reel Q’s Executive Director mentioned the irony behind Washington’s involvement in the film.

In 2007, the actor faced controversy, when he allegedly shouted homophobic slurs to his gay colleague, actor T.R. Knight, before Knight came out of the closet. Now, Washington is involved in acting and producing a film about a young black singer coming to grips with his sexuality in the South. The film is written by Patrik-Ian Polk (“Punks,” “Noah’s Arc,” and “Jumping the Broom”).

Leib said, “Rich Cummings started the festival in 1985. It’s one of the oldest ongoing LGBT film festivals in the world.” Leib noted that it was the sixth oldest to be exact, older: New York, London, Copenhagen or Berlin.

He is thrilled with this year’s selection of films.

He spoke highly of many of them, including the opening night film, “Blackbird.”

He said, “The 29th Annual Reel Q Pittsburgh LGBT Film Festival opens with the Pittsburgh Premiere

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The Pittsburgh premiere of “Blackbird” is followed by an opening reception at the Bricolage Theater, blocks from the screening at the Harris Theater downtown.

Leib spoke proudly and passionately about several other films in the festival. He said, “Nicole Sullivan is hilarious in ‘Eat with Me,’ about an Asian woman

who moves in with her estranged adult son.” The ubiquitous George Takei (“Star Trek,” “Heroes,” and everything) also appears in the film.

Leib can’t wait for audiences to see “52 Tuesdays,” a film about a girl whose mother is transitioning from female-to male and only sees her mom on Tuesdays.

“I really like ‘The Way He Looked.’ It’s about a blind Brazilian boy who gets in a love triangle with his friends, a girl and the new boy in town.” He added, “It’s based on a short film we screened a few years ago, called ‘I Don’t Want to Go Back Alone.’ It won a Teddy Award in Germany. They developed it into a full-length film using the same cast.”

Come out and celebrate LGBT film and culture at Reel Q, the Pittsburgh LGBT Film Festival. The fest runs from October 12 to October 21 at the Harris Theater, 809 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222.

Friday Oct 10 7:30 PM Blackbird Opening night party at Bricolage

BLACKBIRD

(US; 2014; 99 min.)

Director: Patrik-Ian Polk Known for his awarding winning 2001 film “Punks,” African-American singer, songwriter, actor, writer and director Patrik-Ian Polk looks to his Mississippi hometown for inspiration in crafting this fearless work.

Gifted young actor Julian Walker gives a wonderfully nuanced performance as Randy, a black teen who comes out to his parents (Mo’Nique of “Precious” and Isaiah Washington or “Grey’s Anatomy”), forcing the entire family to examine their relationships, community and faith.

Critically acclaimed actor Terrell Tilford (“The DL Chronicles”) appears as the family’s conservative but well-meaning pastor.

Saturday Oct 11 7:00

Saturday Oct 11 4:30 PM

Saturday Oct 11 9:30

Sunday Oct 12 4:30 PM

APPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR

LETTER TO ANITA

EAT WITH ME

TRU LOVE

(US; 2014; 90 min.)

Director: Desiree Akhavan Writer, director and actress Desiree Akhavan taps into her own experiences growing up as an IranianAmerican to craft this funny and bright film.

Akhavan portrays Shirin, a young woman who is struggling to become an ideal Persian daughter, and politically correct bisexual and hip young Brooklynite all at the same time --but fails miserably in her attempt at all identities.

The cast also includes comedian/actor Scott Adsit (TV’s “30 Rock”) and Pennsylvania native Aimee Mullins, who first became famous for her athletic accomplishments despite the amputation of both of her legs.

(US; 2014; 54 min.)

Director: Andrea Meyerson Award winning actress Meredith Baxter narrates this inspiring documentary about one of the most famous episodes in modern LGBT history as experienced by one woman.

In 1977, singer and former beauty queen Anita Bryant launched her Save Our Children effort to repeal a nondiscrimination ordinance in Florida. A year later, Ronni Sanlo came out as a lesbian which led to her losing custody of her two children --- and driving her to become a civil rights activist.

(US; 2014; 95 min.)

Director: David Au Oscar and Felix had nothing on this odd couple: a gay man and his new roommate --- his mother.

Emma (Sharon Omi) is a bored and lonely housewife whose life is lacks spice (except for the occasional soy sauce). Fed up, she abandons her husband and tracks down her estranged son (Teddy Chen Culver) who reluctantly takes her in. But living together is challenging, revealing and funny as mother and son try to live their lives.

LGBT icon George Takei (TV’s “Star Trek”) and Nicole Sullivan (of TV’s “MAD TV” and“Cougar Town”) round out the cast.

The film includes historical footage as well as a recent interview with Anita Bryant’s son and his wife.

(US; 2013; 94 min.)

Directors: Kate Johnston & Shauna MacDonald True love doesn’t run smoothly, especially for a woman named Tru. Co-director Shauna MacDonald plays the title character, a 37-year-old lesbian who has trouble maintaining relationship and even jobs.

But when Alice, the mother of her best friend Suzanne, arrives in town, ties between the three women start to bind and fray as Tru and Alice fall in love --- causing Suzanne to become alarmed which may reveal secrets that have been long buried.

The fine cast includes Peter MacNeill, who is well known to LGBT audiences as Detective Carl Horvath from TV’s “Queer as Folk.”

Alice: Kate Trotter. Suzanne: Christine Horne.

Sunday Oct 12 7:00 PM

SOMETHING MUST BREAK (Sweden; 2014; 81 min.(

Director: Ester Martin Bergsmark The world can change in one summer, as two young men discover in this daring and sensual film.

Sebastian and Andreas couldn’t be more different: Sebastian is androgynous and openly gay. Andreas is masculine and identifies as straight. But they both share the same dream of escaping their boring suburban world they inhabit. They also share a growing love as Sebastian’s inner woman --- whom he calls Ellie --- begins to assert herself.

This film is screened in Swedish with English subtitles. Sebastian: Saga Becker. Andreas: Iggy Malmborg. Lea: Shima Niavarani.

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Thursday Oct 16 7:00 PM

Thursday Oct 16 9:30 PM

Friday October 17 7:00 PM

Friday October 17 9:30 PM

52 TUESDAYS

FIRST PERIOD

OUT IN THE NIGHT

THE CIRCLE

(Australia; 2013; 109 min.)

Director: Sophia Hyde This smart and thoughtful film is the warm story of how a girl grows up after her mother makes a decision that will change both their lives forever.

Tilda Cobham-Hervey gives a striking performance as 16-yearold Billie, who is just starting to explore her budding sexuality when her lesbian mother announces that she will undergo gender reassignment surgery and that, during the year-long process, they will only see each other every Tuesday afternoon. Left largely to her own devices, Billie begins to navigate the world of intimacy and relationships.

This film won praise at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival. James: Del Herbert-Jane. Harry: Marlo Spate.

(US; 2013; 100 min.)

Director: Charlie Vaughn John Hughes meets John Waters in this hilarious gender bending comedy. The film casts two talent young men --- Brandon Alexander III (who wrote the script) and Dudley Beene don wigs and leg warmers to transform themselves into a pair of teen girls trying to be totally rad in the 1980s.

Cassie and Maggie are the most awkward girls in high school and are repeatedly the butt of jokes by two popular girls (who are both named Heather) and their hot boyfriends. So, our heroines decide to take matters in their own hands by aiming for the top prize at an upcoming talent show.

Among the fun cast is Cassandra Peterson (aka Elvira Mistress of the Dark), Jack Plotnick (the 2003 film “Girls Will Be Girls”) and comedic actress Judy Tenuta, who first came to prominence as a standup comedian in the 1980s.

Monday Oct 13 7:30 PM

WOMEN’S SHORTS

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(US; 2014; 75 min.)

Director: Blair Doroshwalther They became known as the New Jersey 4. This impressive documentary examines how a quartet of women stood up for themselves in the face of hatred.

New York City’s famous and funky West Village is known as one of the most LGBT friendly neighborhoods in America. So the last thing four African-American lesbians expected was to be faced with a violent homophobe who sexually threatens them.

The ladies defend themselves against their attacker --- and, in a terrible twist, end up charged with assaulting him.

The film delves into a complex tale of justice and bigotry as the women defend themselves (and seek to protect their families) in both the legal process and the court of public opinion as the conservative media adds to the trauma

(US; 2014; 102 min.)

Director: Stefan Haupt Inspired by actual events, this sexy and engrossing blend of documentary and drama marks a little known but important moment in LGBT history.

From 1932 to 1967, the gay magazine The Circle has a small but loyal international following and even managed to publish during the Nazi era. The magazine published news, short fictions, photos, poems and even stories about scientific research. It eventually shut down as tastes among the LGBT community began to change.

This film uses the deep love between two men --- schoolteacher Ernst and drag entertainer Robi --- to trace the highs and lows of this groundbreaking publication, including the shocking period when it was used as a scapegoat for the murders of several gay men.

“The Circle” is screened in German and French with English subtitles.

Ernst: Matthias Hungerbuhler. Robi: Sven Schelker.

Tuesday Oct 14 7:30 PM

MEN’S SHORTS

Saturday October 18 3:00 PM

20 LIES, 4 PARENTS AND A LITTLE EGG (Netherlands; 2013; 78 min.)

Director: Hanro Smitsman Gay parenting hits some new notes in this wonderful comedy from Northern Europe.

Happily married couple Sjors and Bert (Marcel Musters, Mark Ram) find their lives turned upside down when Sjors’ sullen teenage son Dylan (Nils Verkooijen) must temporarily leave his mother and her girlfriend after an accident.

With warmth and humor, “20 Lies” explores how wellmeaning people can make mistakes and still find a way to love each other.

Wednesday Oct 15 7:30 PM

OUR SHORTS

FIRST PERIOD Saturday October 18 5:00 PM

BFFS

(US; 2014; 90 min.)

Director: Andrew Putschoegl Two friends pretend to be more in this witty and insightful comedy.

Kat and Samantha have been best friends for most of their lives. But when Kat’s mother --who doesn’t know that she’s broken up with her boyfriend --- surprises with her with a couples weekend program, Samantha suggests they pretend to be a lesbian couple and use it as a vacation. What they didn’t expect is for the workshops to be so immersive and revealing.

Legendary character actress Pat Carroll --- who has worked with stars like Danny Thomas and Carol Burnett in her nearly 70year career --- is a delight as Kat’s mother, Joan.

The cast also includes Eric Lively (of TV’s “The L Word”) and Richard Moll (TV’s “Night Court”).

Saturday October 18 7:30 PM Closing Night Party at Toonseum

THE WAY HE LOOKS

(Brazil; 2014; 95 min.)

Director: Daniel Ribeiro A hit in both Latin America and Europe, this comingof-age tale has a little something for everyone.

Blind high school student Leonardo (Ghilherme Lobo) is searching for independence, respect and happiness. Enter new student Gabriel (Fabio Audi), who needs friends himself and finds a kindred spirit in Leo. But adolescence is seldom simple and soon friendships, peer pressure and attraction become to complicate everyone’s lives. This film is the full length version of our double award winning short film “I Don’t Want To Go Back Alone.”

This film is screened in Portuguese with English subtitles. Giovana: Tess Amorim. Carlos: Eucir de Souza.

One of the films in the Reel Q Film Festival is “First Period,” by Brandon Alexander, III. In it, Alexander plays the new girl in town, Cassie.

She allies herself with outcast Maggie (Dudley Beene) and the two become the most awkward girls in high school. Their goal is to win the hearts of the school’s cutest boys by winning the school talent show.

But rivals Heather (Lauren Rose Lewis), Other Heather(Karli Kaiser), and their popular boyfriends Brett(Leigh Wakeford) and Dirk (Michael Turchin) stop at nothing to cast Cassie and Maggie as the school’s biggest laughing stocks. It’s going to take makeovers, courage, and maybe even a little rapping to beat their bullies. The movie is a retro 80s high school romp with boys playing girls, but not in a “Just one of the Guys,” kind of way.

The film features fan favorites Cassandra Peterson (former horror hostess Elvira, Mistress of the Dark), and Carnegie Mellon alum Jack Plotnick (known for his roles on “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “Girls will be Girls” and the animated show, “Drawn Together”). The outrageous accordion-playing comedian Judy Tenuta also has a role in the film.

Equal Magazine caught up with Beene in Los Angeles, and director Charlie Vaughn in Portland to talk about the film.

Dudley Beene remembers auspicious beginning of their festival film. Beene said, “It all started with me saying to my [former] roommate Charlie, “Let’s make a movie!’

Much like, ‘let’s make a baby,’ it seemed quite simple and fun at the time.”

Vaughn said, “First Period is the type of movie I have always wanted to make, probably because it’s the type of movie I’ve always wanted to see. I love quirky, underdog stories; People who exist just outside the fringes of normal.”

Vaughn got the script from another friend, Brandon Alexander, III. Then, he cast his male friends Beene and Alexander as his leading ladies. Vaughn said, “A funny thing happens when I watch the movie. I don’t see Dudley

in a wig, or Brandon in make-up; instead I really believe they are Maggie and Cassie.

That’s how remarkable their performances are. Sure, saying ‘those are real girls’ may be a stretch, but my friends definitely lose themselves in their roles, and that is a delight to watch.”

Beene wasn’t as easily convinced of his prowess playing Maggie. He said, “I remember thinking, ‘Oh I’ll be so pretty: I’ll thin my eyebrows and raise my voice.’ And then I see it on screen and all I can think is, ‘THAT’S A MAN!’” It was an arduous journey from script to screen. Beene said, “We shot the whole film in 10 days and everyone wore so many hats. You haven’t lived ‘til you’ve hauled craft services in a wool skirt in 100 degree weather, but when I saw a stunt man put on my sweat soaked bra I knew... this is gonna be a good movie!”

The actor has fond memories of playing his character. He said, “I like Maggie because she’s dangerous. When she parties, raps, or attempts homicide, you know she means it.”

He adds, “I am shocked we made a movie so filthy with so much heart. It’s the dirtiest thing you could take your grandmother to see.”

Vaughn was hoping to make a Pittsburgh appearance, but he is working on another film. He said, “I try to make it to as many screenings as possible, and Pittsburgh is a city that I have yet to visit. I am disappointed that I won’t be able to share the film with a brand new audience. The best compliment a director can receive is a positive reaction from an audience. In the case of ‘First Period,’ that reaction is laughter. So please laugh loudly, and hopefully I will hear it over at my place in Portland.” .

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ALL ABOUT WE

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CAME

POLY

Are open relationships the death knell for monogamy as we knew it?

By Philip Ezzo

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As gay men and women, we have to ask ourselves certain questions. How do we view our relationships? Are we struggling to model them after heterosexual unions? Are we forging our own path and redefining boundaries? From an objective standpoint, is it realistic to expect homosexual men to be held to the conventional courtship rituals that have governed the globe since the beginning? In order for us to understand where we are going as a culture, we have to understand where we came from.

It wasn’t too long ago that the love that dare not speak its name was confined to parks, piers, bars, and backrooms. The only connections that could be made were in secret and behind closed doors. This existence mainly focused on the sexual exploration so many curious men sought. Thoughts of a life filled with love and commitment were reserved for the straight world. In order for someone to have a full life with 2.5 children and a pet, one had to be married.

Homosexuality was a sin, a disease.

With a history most notably based in sexual expression, it is not a surprise that sexual freedom is important to gay men and women. It is now up to the community to decide how far they would like to take their sexual freedom. Are all gay relationships eventually destined for some type of “open” arrangement? Even though our lesbian sisters are often perceived as more monogamous, many experience a phenomenon commonly referred to as “Lesbian Bed Death.” Exploring a polyamorous route may be a solution for some couples experiencing LBD. “The Ethical Slut,” by Dossie Easton & Janet Hardy, or “Opening Up: A Guide to Creating and Sustaining Open Relationships,” by Tristan Taormino are a couple books on the subject that may help flesh out answers to these questions as well as provide advice for those intrigued by the matter.

No matter which camp you find yourself in, fidelity is a hot topic. Everyone has either cheated or been cheated on, and it might make one feel as if there is no hope for a stable arrangement. But, even the heterosexuals have this issue. The fairytale ideal of marriage and fidelity is just that, a fairy tale.

Don’t be mistaken, there is nothing wrong with wanting love and commitment, and there is nothing far-fetched about that. However, expecting to live in a relationship for years without feeling the need for sexual variety may be improbable. Whether the feelings are acted on or not, the issue still remains.

We are sexual creatures. It all boils down to the

chemistry between two people, and what is most important to them in a relationship.

Now that gay marriage is a reality, so is the notion of gay divorce. Lining up the ducks, as it were, and setting the rules and boundaries in a relationship is more important than ever. It is no longer as simple as walking away with minor fallout. Making the decision to become polyamorous is therefore an even bigger step, since both parties really need to be in agreement in order to keep the marriage alive and strong.

Communication is the key. Finding out what both involved are feeling and desiring is the first step in determining the course of the union. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to anyone’s situation.

On one hand, an open relationship might be the answer for those that seek to revitalize their sex life by introducing multiple partners, playing together or separately. On the other, keeping the rules of a relationship traditional may prove to be the best decision, helping to make each partner feel safe, secure, and uniquely special. Whatever is decided, both have to be in agreement, and both have to feel respected.

Some may say that our culture should move beyond carnal lust, and in order for the gay community to be seen as equals, we need to behave in a certain manner; we need to conform to the standards that the majority of heterosexuals embrace. The argument does hold water, although it seems so conservative. When sex consumes and controls our lives, it can be counterproductive to our goals. Finding the right balance between love and companionship and sexual expression is really the crux of the issue.

We are who we are, and even amongst gay men and women there is diversity galore. Some like it hot, some like it cold. Some like it open, some like it closed. Whether open relationships are inevitable or not is definitely something that deserves further study. It would be interesting to see if gay men can fit into moral norms or if we will all at last succumb to the call of the wild.

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DEATH BECOMES US

Thinking Outside the

COFFIN

by Drue Miller Portrait by John Colombo

An interview with Funeral Director Carolyn Thompson

E q u al M agazine.org

It’s autumn, and death is in the air. Dried, brown leaves crunch underfoot as summer gardens succumb to the first frost. Suburban front yards are dotted with tombstones, while skeletons, zombies and other ghouls ring doorbells in pursuit of candy. Wiccans prepare for Samhain, that time of year when the veil between the world of the living and the world of the dead is said to be thinnest. In many ways, October is the ideal time to talk about death. Unfortunately, it’s a conversation few people want to have.

Pittsburgh funeral director Carolyn Thompson is out to change that. Here she shares her views on planning for the end of your life.

How did you become interested in the funeral business?

I was a caterer for 15 years, so I spent a lot of time thinking about “life events.” After my mother died, I started thinking about “end of life events”. People want their weddings to be uniquely about them; why wouldn’t they want the same for their funeral? In 2010, I attended the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science (PIMS). I worked at a local funeral home and got my license in 2012, and then went back to PIMS to teach. My passion in funeral service is looking at the future of the industry in relation to memorialization and personalization.

Essentially, how we can redirect the industry to better serve our families?

What were the most surprising things you learned in school?

Initially, I was very interested in green (natural) burial. I was surprised to develop an appreciation for embalming and the opportunity it can provide in some unusual situations for people to be able to view their loved ones one more time. Mortuary school helped me develop a respect for embalming, but the biggest surprise was discovering that I actually enjoyed the process.

Has working as a funeral director changed your views about death?

I think I’ve always been pretty accepting of death, but funeral service really drives home

the reality that we don’t get to pick what we get in life. Some of us get 90 years, and some of us get far less, and there isn’t often a rhyme or reason why. What really matters is what we do with the time that we get.

What are the best and worst parts of the job?

People would ask me, “Why do you want to be a funeral director? You’ll always be at a funeral!” But that’s actually the best part for me. I’m always at a family gathering, hearing amazing stories about people’s lives, witnessing reunions and seeing some of the best in people. It’s also a tremendous privilege to be able to be there for people on the worst day of their lives. It’s so gratifying to hear that you made a difference for someone.

The worst part of the job was the hours! I love sleep and being on call was tough. But when the phone rings at 3 am, you have to get up and put on a suit and go out – rain or shine!

The hardest thing by far for me was the deaths of babies and children. There is no blueprint in life for when children die. It’s incredibly painful for everyone around that family, including the funeral home staff, and it takes a lot of emotional energy to be present for the family and deal with your own feelings in the situation. I think all the things you have to discuss with the family at those times are things that no one ever wants to imagine having to think about.

Everyone jokes about Pittsburgh being ‘10 years behind the times’ in fashion, food, etc.

Is this true in the deathcare industry as well?

Well, yes. Pittsburgh is very traditional in many respects, including funeral service.

For example, the national cremation rate is on the rise and just about 50% on average; Pittsburgh is just under 35%, while places like Seattle are closer to 80%. Traditional viewings and burials are very common in Pittsburgh, awhile some of the newer trends like holding services in art galleries, parks or other outside venues are only just starting to become popular. We’re also starting to see funeral

MARRIAGE EQUALITY WILL HAVE A HUGE IMPACT IN OUR LGBTQ COMMUNITY WHEN IT COMES TO FUNERAL SERVICE. THE PERSON WITH THE LEGAL RIGHT OF DISPOSITION, WHICH FOR SINGLE ADULTS OFTEN MEANS THEIR PARENTS OR CHILDREN, MAKES FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS.

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celebrants becoming an option that people choose in place of a member of the clergy, especially if the deceased or their family isn’t religious. Funeral service is moving toward personalization and more meaningful memorialization, and Pittsburgh is headed that way, too.

How will marriage equality affect the funeral industry?

Marriage equality will have a huge impact in our LGBTQ community when it comes to funeral service. The person with the legal right of disposition, which for single adults often means their parents or children, makes funeral arrangements. With unmarried same-sex couples, one person’s family may step in at the time of death and disregard the rights of their partner. Before marriage equality in PA, in my own experience, I was happily surprised to see funeral directors trying very hard to do everything they could do to help LGBTQ families keep as much control as possible. However, we’ve all heard horror stories of someone who lost a partner and the decedent’s family shut them out as though their relationship never existed. Same-sex marriage will at least give same-sex families the same legal rights. Many of the issues between all families at the time of need are based on lack of pre-planning, so it is important for all people to communicate their wishes and to make arrangements for their end of life.

You’ve talked a lot about alternatives to the traditional funeral. What are some of the changes you’d like to see more people embrace?

should be a party (though I hope that mine will be someday!) but rather the focus should be on creating a meaningful tribute.

Funeral celebrants are a great step in that direction; a celebrant crafts a service that speaks to a person’s life, family, accomplishments and passions by incorporating meaningful stories, photographs, music, hobbies and memorabilia. I also think taking the funeral out of the funeral home is something that more people should consider and something more funeral homes should offer as an option. Why not have your funeral or memorial at a favorite gallery, restaurant, or club?

When we consider our life events, we personalize every detail down to the color of our napkins; why not do that for end of life events, too?

What are the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to death planning?

Well, not doing it is, of course, the main issue. I know people don’t like to talk about death, but (and I hate to be the person who is always pointing this out) we’re all going to die someday.

Another big mistake people make is saying, “Oh you don’t need to have a funeral for me when I’m gone! Just cremate me (or bury me)!” It’s necessary for people to be able to mourn their loves ones and funerals or memorials are how we start that process. Telling your loved ones not to do anything creates a message that they then have to disobey in order to do what they need to grieve. What we should say is, “Do something simple for me, but also do what you need to do to have closure.”

I believe funerals should be a celebration of a person’s life. That doesn’t mean that every funeral 24

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DiscounteD ADoption fees the day after the

Penguins

®

win!

The percentage off will be determined by the jersey number of the player scoring the winning goal.

www.animalrescue.org • 412-345-7300

Official animal Shelter Of the

Things to Do Before You Die Many of us have a “bucket list” — a checklist of places to visit and activities to try before we die. While these often include dream vacations and fun adventures, Carolyn thinks everyone should spend at least a little part of their life planning for the end.

Here are four things she encourages everyone to do now:

Talk to your doctor about creating an Advanced Healthcare Directive (“living will”) that specifies which medical treatments you do and don’t want towards the end of your life, and names a healthcare agent to make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.

Think about what you’d like to have done with your remains. Do you want to be buried in a family plot? Would you rather be cremated and have your ashes scattered in a special place? Do you plan to donate your organs, or perhaps even give your entire body to science?

Talk honestly with your loved ones about your wishes (and theirs) regarding funerals. Do you prefer an open or closed casket viewing (or neither)? Religious rites? Music? Donations to charity in lieu of flowers? Maybe a party, group activity or memorial service somewhere other than a funeral home is more your style? Don’t be afraid to talk about what would be most meaningful to you. Once you know what you want, make sure your loved ones know it as well. People mistakenly assume their last wishes only need to be specified in their will, however the will is often not read until after the funeral.

Talk to a funeral home about pre-planning a funeral, whether or not you’ll be paying for it now. If nothing else, it will help you understand the kinds of decisions you’ll need to make later on.

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

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

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r e e Queen

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LOCAL SEEN

S

Photographs by Masha Vereshchenko

DRAG OR DARE PAGEANT @ THE LINK

MAMA NICHOLE’S BIRTHDAY @ P-TOWN

MIMI IMFURST @ THE BLUE MOON

Equal M ag a zine.org

OCTOBER 1600 Smallman Street

Events:

CRUZEBAR

Wednesday 9pm-11pm Thursday - Saturday 7pm-11pm

Join resident DJ + PA Master Of The Mix Champion Digital Dave every 1st + 3rd Thursday

10.3.14 First Friday with Kierra Darshell: Mr. EOY 2011, Mykul Jay Valentine & Lady Rose Amore 10.4.14 iLaugh with Jessica Kirson w/DJ Adele [Tickets available at Cruzebar.com]

10.19.14 2nd Annual Miss Tri-State All-Star Newcomer Pageant honoring Newcomer 2013 Mari Jane 10.30.14 Thursday (18+) Night Halloween Party 10.31.14 iCandy Pgh.'s Fairies, Freaks  & Fervor Halloween Fest [8pm]

@CruzeBar

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N EO H C IT

By Mike Buzzelli Photo by Sequoia Emmanuelle

British singer/songwriter Neon Hitch will be taking it to the streets of Shadyside on Friday, October 24 on Ellsworth Avenue for a Halloween spooktacular “Nightmare on Hellsworth.” The appearance is part of the queen of gypsy pop’s “Yard Sale Tour,” her latest single about letting go of the past.

In 2012, her songs, “F U Betta” and “Gold,” co-written by Bruno Mars, both peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Songs chart, and Hitch has been making a big splash in the music scene. It’s been quite the journey.

When Hitch was a small child, she traveled around Europe by caravan with her family. She even joined the circus. By the time she was in her teens, Hitch was trained as a trapeze artist, fire swinger and stilt walker and had performed all across Europe.

Hitch is infused with the gypsy spirit, and she is enjoying her tour. She said, “Traveling is all I’ve ever done. I am a traveler. So being on the road is home for me.”

She has fond memories of the American cities she has toured. Hitch said, “I love every city for different reasons. I had a wild time in Chicago.

I love playing New York, because I have so many friends there. The same goes for LA. I’m always down for an adventure and I love hitting up new cities.”

She added, “Being on tour is always my favorite experience. Being on tour with Gym Class Heroes was some of the best days of my life!”

The singer/songwriter has eclectic taste. She said, “I love the Beatles and The Spice Girls, mainly. I also love Dolly Parton, Nelly Furtado, Sia, Erykah Badu, Edward Sharpe and anyone with a quirky voice and strong message.” She cites Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” Madonna’s “Like a Virgin,” and “Am I Wrong” by Nico and Vince as her favorite songs.

When asked about choosing one of her own songs as a favorite, Hitch replied, “That’s an even harder question because each song is an

expression of a different emotion I was feeling at the time. All of my songs are my babies so I can’t really favorite a baby!”

Ultimately she chose but, “Midnight Son” from “Happy Neon,” but she also loves “Gypsy Star” from “301 to Paradise,” and she can’t wait for us to hear the titular song “Eluetheromaniac” from the eponymous album.

Neon’s debut album, “Eleutheromaniac,” is slated for a 2014 independent release, but you can hear cuts of it on Ellsworth Avenue.

She said, “I’m not sure I’ve ever been to Pittsburgh before. I need to be shown a good time.”

Hitch added, “We’ll make this one to remember.”

Nightmare on Hellsworth is October 24 on Ellsworth Avenue in Shadyside. Put on your Halloween costume and dance to the gypsy star.

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TRAVEL

s k r o w e r i F

H T & E e H v B o C L in EHO EA R

By Rick Sicilio For over 20 years Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, has been host to the LOVE Dance over the July 4th holiday to benefit “Create a More Positive” Rehoboth, or affectionately called CAMP Rehoboth, and this year’s event was billed as “the biggest dance weekend of the summer!”

Every year as I travel to Rehoboth Beach, I find so many Pittsburghers and friends from Ohio, that in fact Rehoboth Beach becomes our “personal and most fabulous beach.” Many host annual parties at the beach including a G2H2 “Rehoboth Style” party hosted by some of our “own” local beach lovers. In addition to July 4th, you will find Rehoboth most popular with us locals during Memorial Day weekend, Labor Day weekend, and during Rehoboth Pride (September).

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Initially established in the 1870’s as a Methodist Meeting Camp, Rehoboth Beach has developed into a great mix of families, senior citizens, and the LGBT community largely in part to CAMP Rehoboth. CAMP has brought communities together and helped Rehoboth Beach become known as not only “one of America’s best gay beaches” (USA Today), but also one of America’s “top retirement destinations” (Reader’s Digest)! According to CAMP, “Rehoboth is still a family town for all kinds of families!”

As the Fab Four once said, “All you need is LOVE” and you can find that on a visit to Rehoboth Beach!

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SIGHTSEEING AND SHOPPING PROUD BOOKSTORE

Formerly the Lambda Rising bookstore, Proud Bookstore is truly proud of its expansive inventory material that ranges from modern genres to classic literary tones. Stop in to the Baltimore Avenue shop and experience a rainbow of choices!

Baltimore Avenue @ Village of the Sea Shops Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 302-227-6969

SEA FINDS

Sea Finds, located in Penny Lane, specializes in custom seashell designs. At Sea Finds, you can find beautifully crafted sea décor, seaglass jewelry and one-of-a-kind works by local artists.

Clearly this is one place that you have to see to

appreciate the beauty and grace of the pieces within, so stop in to Sea Finds for a truly unique remembrance of Rehoboth!

Penny Lane // Wilmington Avenue Rehoboth Beach, DE http://www.seafinds.com/

BEACH ESSENTIALS

Gay owned, Beach Essentials is THE place to go for your underwear, shorts, and swimwear.

Shop this awesome men’s only beach clothing store for the latest summer collections of Pistol Pete, Sauvage, Andrew Christian, and Gregg Homme.

33 Baltimore Avenue Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 302-227-5210

BEACH CUTS

Owner Robb McDonnell said his number one goal is to develop a lifelong relationship with the client by understanding and delivering to his/her needs. His mission is to “help one’s ‘self’ be realized and to enhance and strive for self love and fulfillment.”

Beach Cuts offers service, value, and professional guidance in personal grooming and services for the Rehoboth Beach area. Pamper yourself with a legendary personal design at Beach Cuts because, of course, “you’re worth it!”

214 Rehoboth Avenue Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 302-226-7622 http://www.beachcutssalon.com/

HOTELS SANDS HOTEL AND CONVENTION CENTER

There’s clearly something for everyone at the Sands Hotel and Convention Center, located on the North Boardwalk. The Atlantic Sands Hotel is more than just a place for beauty sleep; it is a place for beauty upkeep, retail therapy, gastronomical delights and an edgy nightlife scene! Known for its history of excellence and superior customer service, the Sands Hotel suggests that you

“imagine yourself making an escape from daily life to enjoy the comforts of Rehoboth Beach!”

Sounds good to me!

101 North Boardwalk Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 302-227-2511 http://www.atlanticsandshotel. com/

SILVERLAKE B&B

Located on a scenic waterfowl preserve with panoramic water views, tranquil Silver Lake is a short walk to the ocean beach, downtown Rehoboth’s restaurants, clubs and shops. The grounds on Silver Lake offer for the visitor a lakefront lawn, lake top deck and dock, and perennial gardens to stroll through. Silver Lake provides for the visitor a true bed and breakfast experience with a lavish sprinkling of TLC in the midst of nature at its best.

20388 Silver Lake Drive Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 302-226-2115 http://www.silverlakeguesthouse. com/

LIGHTHOUSE INN B & B

Built in 1904, the Lighthouse Inn reminds one of a time gone by where wrap-around front porches and turn-of-the-century fireplaces were the standard by which vacation houses were held.

Only a half block from the ocean and within walking distance of Rehoboth Beach’s boutiques and restaurants, the Lighthouse Inn offers old fashioned charm with a newly renovated crispness. Hosts Jerry and Matt offer a welcome to all two legged and four legged visitors.

20 Delaware Avenue Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 302-226-0407 http://www.lighthouseinn.net/

BARS, CLUBS AND RESTAURANTS A(MUSE)

1. to entertain in a joyful and cheerful manner 2. the inspiration of artists, writers,

poets, scientists, and chefs 3. a place for guests to come to enjoy a taste of progressive Mid-Atlantic cuisine in Rehoboth Beach.

This restaurant owned by Chef Hari Cameron was a highlight on my trip to the beach this Labor Day weekend. a(muse) is a wonderful place for dinner and has an excellent kitchen staff that uses fresh ingredients. The food was delightful and amazingly creative, bringing tastes of the earth and sea together.

44 Baltimore Avenue Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 http://www.amuse-rehoboth.com/

BLUE MOON

This turn of the century, beautifully restored Victorian beach house holds the Blue Moon restaurant and bar, and is located less than two blocks from the ocean in Rehoboth Beach. Known for its award winning cuisine and wine list, the Blue Moon has been pleasing customers for over 30 years. Offering multiple choices of either Charcuterie or cheese platters, the Blue Moon has one of the most unique menu offerings in Rehoboth Beach. Blue Moon doesn’t limit itself to excellence in cuisine; it offers the visitor excellence in entertainment also.

Legendary artist Pamala Stanley calls Blue Moon her home during summer and continues to entertain her fans of all ages with hits like “I Don’t Want to Talk About it” and “If Looks Could Kill.” Known for her disco style, Pamala is a regular at Blue Moon and truly worth a special trip to see.

35 Baltimore Avenue Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 302-227-6515 http://www.bluemoonrehoboth. com/

RIGBY’S REHOBOTH

Owned by John Black & John Glenstrup, Rigby’s was selected as one of the “favorite local dining spots” in 2013 by Delaware Today Magazine. The two Johns’ goal was to “open a place with a

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welcoming feel, where both locals and visitors could get together, have good food and good fun.”

Rigby’s offers American cuisine incorporating a French cooking style using only the finest and freshest ingredients. They strive to offer a “farm to table” approach to enhance your eating pleasure.

Rigby’s, in addition to their comfortable dining room, offers a beautiful garden patio to enjoy, and extends a special welcome to man’s best friend also! Stop in to Rigby’s and you can always find one of the two John’s there to make sure your visit was memorable in every way possible.

404 Rehoboth Avenue Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 302-227-6080 http://www.rigbysrehoboth.com/

AQUA GRILL

Craving the night life? Then Aqua Grill is the place to see or be seen at Rehoboth Beach! Aqua’s offers the hottest bodies of the summer to serve you delicious American seafood cuisine with a twist. Gay owned and operated, Aqua Grill and Sun Deck was featured in The Washington Post’s Annual Beach Guide for outdoors night life fun.

Some of the regular events at Aqua include its themed costume Tea Dances, DJ remix, and Drag Brunches. Tourists come from far and wide to experience the vibe of Aqua. If any of this sounds familiar to you, it might be because Aqua Grill was featured on Logo TV on BUMP Travel (Episode 9, Season 4). Definitely a must-see!

57 Baltimore Avenue Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 302-226-9001 http://aquagrillrehoboth.com/ For travel recommendations, please contact me at RSicilio@ TRIPSandCRUISES.com www.TRIPSandCRUISES.com or 800-411-8747.

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FEATURE

E D I R P R E T IN NIZ

RGA O E D I R P R O RENCE F

FE

N O C L A B O L G THE

More than 300 people from Pride organizations all over the world will gather in Pittsburgh, but when they return to organize their local events, the reach of the 32nd Annual InterPride Conference set for Oct. 22 to 26 in Pittsburgh.

“There are millions of people that are influenced by the people that are sitting in that room and it’s powerful to realize the influence of Pride,” says Sue Doster, co-President of InterPride.

The conference will be the first international LGBT conference hosted in Pittsburgh and is meant to help Pride organizations,

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R U B S T T I P N I ERS LANDS

By Stacey Federoff

including Pittsburgh’s Delta Foundation, share information, best practices and strategies to reach as many people as possible with Pride events, says Chris Bryan, director of marketing and development with Delta Foundation and a member of the InterPride executive board.

“We have a really great reputation among all the other Pride groups,” she says. “It’s a great thing for Pittsburgh to be able to show off the city.”

Doster, who has experience with Pride events in New York City and New Jersey, says the conference helps create an environment of

passionate people who might tailor certain ideas to their own communities, but each has the same goal in mind.

“In the end we’re all trying to change hearts and minds and Pride is one way to do that,” she says.

Among the speakers for the conference, including prominent local leaders, former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton will focus on efforts to recognize the LGBTQ community globally.

Doster says over her decades in politics, others in her position might have shied away from the community.

“She’s never done that, she’s always all along been a strong supporter and I think that resonates with a lot of people in our larger community,” Doster says.

From discussing the ins-and-outs of non-profit status to how to best encourage volunteerism at Pride events, the speakers bring a wide range of experiences, Doster says.

open to the public and tickets are $20.

While the conference is a little more pricey at $399 for the entire four days, Bryan says anyone interested in volunteering in order to attend is encouraged to contact the Delta Foundation.

“We’re just really looking forward to rolling out the red carpet,” Bryan says.

“I think Pittsburgh has really taken the time to bring in strong speakers and have strong skills-building workshops,” she says.

And, since an integral part of any Pride is entertainment, a showcase of potential Pride performers is planned for “Nightmare on Hellsworth” at 7 p.m. Oct. 24 on Ellsworth Avenue featuring Neon Hitch. The event is

AMONG THE SPEAKERS FOR THE CONFERENCE, INCLUDING PROMINENT LOCAL LEADERS, FORMER SECRETARY OF STATE HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON WILL FOCUS ON EFFORTS TO RECOGNIZE THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY GLOBALLY.

SPEAKERS INCLUDE Hillary Rodham Clinton was the 67th United States Secretary of State from 2009 to 2013, serving under President Barack Obama. She was previously a U.S. Senator from New York from 2001 to 2009. Before that, as the wife of President Bill Clinton, she was First Lady of the United States from 1993 to 2001. In the 2008 election, Clinton was a leading candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination. A fierce advocate for human rights, Clinton decision to formally back same-sex marriage in 2013 received heaps of praise from the LGBT community.

Michael Kumer is principal of BoardsMTO (Made to Order), a boutique consulting firm helping community benefit boards attain excellence in all areas of governance, including strategic planning, board member recruitment, and effective board structures.

Joan M. Garry has a nonprofit consulting practice focused on crisis management, executive coaching and building strong board and leadership teams. For 10 years, she served as the Executive Director of the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD). She is currently an adjunct professor at the University of Pennsylvania’s Annenberg School for Communications where she focuses on nonprofit media strategy and media advocacy.

Peggy Outon is the founding Executive Director of the Bayer Center for Nonprofit Management at Robert Morris University. She is also the founding Director of the Centers for Effective Nonprofit Management in Austin, Texas, and New Orleans, and the founding Board Chair of the Alliance for Nonprofit Management.

Linda Dickerson is the founder and principal of 501(c) (3)2, a full-service, nonprofit management consulting practice. She has spent a long career as a leader in Pittsburgh’s nonprofit and for-profit communities. Her work has included serving as CEO of the National Aviary, principal of the consulting firm Dickerson & Mangus and publisher of Executive Report magazine.

Candi Castleberry-Singleton is the Chief Diversity Officer at UPMC, Pittsburgh’s largest employer. At UPMC, she oversees system-wide employee engagement and social responsibility initiatives involving more than 55,000 employees and the diverse communities served by UPMC. In 2008, she launched the UPMC Center for Inclusion and is a founder of the Dignity & Respect Campaign, a national movement that builds on 30 tips that remind us to be mindful of how we treat others.

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SPORTS

Pittsburgh’s Gay Bowling League’s

Strike OUT

By Joseph Corcoran

Recent strides have been made in combating homophobia and intolerance within America’s athletic communities, but who knew that for decades, long before the emergence of Jason Collins and Michael Sam, there was this quintessential American sport inadvertently working to bridge the gay gap and bring together both athletes and recreationists despite their backgrounds? Gay and lesbian bowling leagues first became popular during the 1970’s as an alternative place to meet and mingle with the community, but outside of the bar scene. And although this sentiment may remain true today, for most league bowlers it’s not just about LGBT fellowship.

Football (FIFA), except rather than governing the sport in its entirety, the IGBO specializes in unifying over five thousand gay bowling leagues stationed throughout the world. Although the number may seem quite large, the IGBO insists that this number is nothing significant. “The amazing growth of Gay bowling is not surprising, as it is one sport that truly does not discriminate among its participants,” the organization’s web site reads. “Whether young or old, male or female, wheelchair bound or deaf, strong or weak, tall or short, bowling is a sport that virtually any living person can enjoy whether recreationally or as a member of a league.”

THE FIFA OF BOWLING

‘BURGH LEAGUES

Just like soccer’s Major League Soccer (MLS) and college athletics’ National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), bowling has professional associations and affiliations of its own. The United States’ Bowling Congress (USBC) is the MLS of bowling, governing nearly three thousand local bodies throughout the country. When it comes to gay bowling leagues, the International Gay Bowling Organization, or IGBO, acts similar to soccer’s International Federation of Association

There are three main LGBT bowling leagues as well as a chapter of the IGBO based in Pittsburgh: The Steel City Bowling league, Pittsburgh Pride (not to be confused with the annual June festival!) and the 3 Rivers Rollers.

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Steel City Bowling League is Pittsburgh’s largest LGBT-friendly league. The league’s 2014-15 season began on 7 September, with the second half beginning 4 January, 2015. Interested bowlers are

encouraged to visit the league’s home lane, AMF Noble Manor Lanes (2440 Noblestown Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15205; 412-922-4622) to bowl for fun on Sundays at 7:00 p.m. More serious bowlers might consider joining Steel City’s league format, which consists of teams of four players, including a team captain. The cost is $15 per week per bowler plus a USBC sanctioning fee which varies by gender. For immediate information, visit the Steel City Bowling League online at steelcitybowling.org.

Why worry? Get tested.

PATF now offers free confidential STD testing 6 days a week.

The Pittsburgh Pride gay friendly bowling league meets every other Sunday evening, beginning 7 September, 2014 and ending 3 May, 2015 at Forward Lanes in Squirrel Hill (5844 Forward Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15217; 412-422-5844). Pittsburgh Pride’s practice round begins around 6:15 p.m., and games at 6:30 p.m. The league consists of 10 teams of four players each, and is a member of both the USBC and the IGBO. Weekly bowling dues are $13, plus a $25 annual USBC and IGBO membership fee. For more information on how you can get involved, e-mail Bryan Henn at bryan.henn@verizon. net or visit them online at pghpridebowling.org.

The last, but certainly not the least LGBT friendly league in the city is the 3 Rivers Rollers! Three River Rollers is a summer only, recreational league that begins in June and ends in July every year.

In the past, the league has met on Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m. at Forward Lanes in Squirrel Hill. According to its web site, the league’s summer series begins with eight weeks of league play, one week of position play and then a week of championships.

What makes Three River Rollers unique is that while most leagues require four bowlers on each team, 3 River Rollers’ motto is “Two’s Company and Three’s a Team,” thus maxing out its teams at only three players. The cost per session is $13.00. For more information, visit 3rrbl.org.

Call 412.345.7456 or visit www.patf.org

UPCOMING EVENTS One thing about Pittsburgh’s gay bowlers – they sure know how to keep busy! Last month (September, 2014), TREAT, an annual IGBO bowling tournament, was held at AMF lanes in Mount Lebanon, followed by a benefit show at Cruze bar. In October the leagues will compete in the ‘Burgh Area Rainbow Bowler’s Invitational, or Barbi for short – a fundraising doubles tournament on 12 October beginning at 11:00 a.m. at AMF Noble Manor Lanes. The tournament entry fee is $40 per team, using your highest average from the 2013-14 season.

In November, the leagues will attend IGBO’s mid-year conference and tournament which will be held in Jacksonville, Florida from 5-10 November. Recently, Pittsburgh’s IGBO chapter won the bid to host mid-year conference and tournament next year. The city will welcome over 400 bowlers from around the world for the mid-year conference and tournament in its 35th anniversary year, from 1016 November, 2015. For more information about the event, visit igbopittsburgh.org.

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YOU’RE PUTTING ME ON

The Fantasy of

Dressing Up When we imagine dressing up and costumes around this time of year, most people think of Halloween parties: vampires, werewolves, and zombies come to mind. Back in the day, Halloween was a time for creativity and imaginations to run wild, original costumes ruled the fall at parties and even Trick-or Treating. Grandmothers and mothers sat at their sewing machines for hours, and more recently, go to craft stores to create unique costumes for their kids. As those kids got older they created their own costumes to when we’re adults full on in control of what we want to be. People of all ages had no problem piecing together an innovative design. Times have changed, and we see a lot more people wanting to buy their costume in full, so the uniqueness is lost in the mass production of a particular costume. However, local year round costume shops like Costume World in the Strip District and Spotlight Costumes on the South Side have seen fads come and go of put-together costumes, but appreciate those willing to create their own ensembles every Halloween.

Spotlight Costumes in the South Side continues to pave the way for mom-and-pop costume stores since 1988.

Spotlight offers wholesale and theatrical costumes, costume rentals and remain the largest distributor of

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By Jahmeela Clarke

renowned Ben Nye Makeup in the Tri-State area. Ron Thompson has been at Spotlight since the beginning, and extremely proud of it. He’s seen Spotlight provide makeup to theatre productions from Oliver to Shrek, popular superheroes at their lowest and their peaks, the steady influx of Dr. Who inspired outfits, and period piece costumes like those motivated by Downton Abbey. Accessories from gloves to jewelry, hats to mustaches – it’s easy to see how people can go from nothing to looking like a real extra in one of those series.

Ron’s prediction for popular costumes this year? Orange is the New Black jumpsuits! Get your big red wigs and crazy eyes ready!

But it’s not just TV characters that influence costumes and what Spotlight and most year round costume shop carry. Feedback from loyal customers is also welcome, for example, after Kim Kardashian mentioned Ben Nye’s Banana foundation on her show and it was recommended by Drag Queens and Kings, Spotlight made sure to carry it, appeasing to the needs of anyone who enjoys changing their look – whether it’s for a play, a show, a party, or your own enjoyment.

Understandably, it may be cheaper to go with an already made Spiderman costume from a 30-day Halloween

store, but it’ll be hard to differentiate you and the 50 other people with the same costume on. For example, on Walmart.com a Geisha girl costume is about $35, and you can tell why. There’s not really anything special about it and its quality is poor. Other online stores do offer a little more uniqueness and the quality is better, but the problem is the same as shopping online for normal clothing – the fit. Online costume shops usually sex everything up, but it’s hard to tell whether it will fit your body type, and there aren’t options to alter them. That same Geisha outfit runs between $50 and $80 on the online shops. All Spotlight’s rentals typically range from $75 to $90, and the same price applies for an authentic handmade costume that actually resembles a true Geisha.

Makeup and wigs are available to polish the look, costumes can be altered while in the store, and accessories, like hats or gloves, can be made on the spot! Even if you do decide not to go with a rental, to have the opportunity to be original by creating from scratch some wacky concept, like a zombified Mr. and Mrs. Santa Clause, are unbeatable and sure to be memorable for Halloweens to come.

For local costume shops, while they see a definite uptick in customers between September and October, their traffic is year round. The fantasy of dressing up isn’t just for special holidays either. For those of us who want something a little extra, like a wig or special makeup, year round costume stores are the way to go. But as Ron says, the local shops need support to last, “[they need to be] cultivated and groomed or [they] will wither and die.” He listed half a dozen year round stores no longer open for that very reason – lack of support. So if you’re looking for something more original to create or rent for Halloween, have an idea you want sewn up or altered, or want to try a new look, try the local year round stores right here in Pittsburgh, it’ll be worth your while!

Images courtesy of couplescostumes.com, halloweencostumes.com, costumeexpress.com, wondercostumes.com, buystarwarscostumes. com, wizardofozcostumes.com, costumesgalore.net, http:// www.costumeone.com.au, http://www.thecostumeland.com, halloweencostumeideas.com

10 “SCARY” LESBIAN HALLOWEEN COSTUMES

By Chrissy Costa

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BIG BOO (Orange Is the New Black) - The trouble with dressing as Big Boo is that we may not know if you’re in costume or if you’re just hanging out and it may cause an uncomfortable silence.

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GYNECOLOGIST - If you’re the girl dressed in scrubs with a pair of stirrups attached to her shoulders, bobbing for apples, you may be the one who leaves with a date. Or a venereal disease. 50/50 chance here.

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ANN COULTER - I attempted to write a blurb but even my keyboard was gagging.

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THE FOSTERS: LENA AND STEF - Caution!

If you’re attending the party as the ultra-sexy power couple you may be accosted by everyone, shouting things at you such as, “You want a threesome?”, or “Adopt me.” And by everyone, I mean me…

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SETH ROGEN: It’ll be hilarious, actually. You should do it.

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THE ENTIRE CAST OF AMERICAN HORROR STORY: COVEN – If you and your crew roll into the party like this, how many people do you think will move out of your way so you can get to the buffet? Answer: ALL of them.

BRUCE JENNER – Oh stop!

FIREFIGHTER (LIKE THOSE TWO HOT GIRLS ON CHICAGO FIRE) - The scary part will be how many women will throw their cat into a tree or light their pants on fire just to have you come to their rescue.

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A PAIR OF SCISSORS – you and your partner can freak out all of the heterosexuals as you demonstrate the most uncreative sexual position known to lesbiankind.

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ROSIE O’DONNELL AND DONALD TRUMP – There’s always that one couple that can’t attend a gathering without causing a scene. Throw in a temper tantrum and some bad hair and this could be you.

Happy Halloween!

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Cooking for We all lead busy lives, and even if we aren’t as busy as we lead others to believe, chances are, the last thing we want to do is try to prepare a meal for ourselves or our partners. The kitchen can be a very intimidating place, even with a myriad of television shows and cookbooks designed to make it appear more accessible.

The truth is, most Americans have become so detached from their food and where it is prepared that they feel like they could never live up to the standards seen on television or in restaurants. Eating in restaurants is very easy, but is very costly in the long run. There has to be a simpler way to create delicious and healthy food at home without having to impress anyone!

Here are a few tips to help you get more connected with your food and your kitchen,

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and to help avoid the money trap of constantly eating out.

Don’t be afraid of slow cooking

Using a slow cooker is a great way to make a decent meal on budgeted time. It takes a little planning, but in most cases, the instructions simply involve adding all ingredients, at once, and hitting the “start” button. By the time you come home from work, the heavy lifting has already been done and it can then be enjoyed.

The good news is, if you’ve made enough, you can save the rest for another meal!

Leftovers are your friends

As mentioned in the last tip, having and reheating extra food may not be glamorous, but can help stop the urge to head to the drive-thru or reaching for the phone to order take-out.

Plus, there is the added benefit of knowing

By Philip Ezzo

exactly which ingredients you are putting into your body. Get creative! Leftovers can be transformed into different dishes if the thought of eating the same meal from yesterday doesn’t appeal to you.

Buy only what you need at the grocery store

Keeping extra ingredients and foods on the shelves that have the potential to spoil before being consumed is a big risk for single people or couples. By limiting purchases at the store, it can be more economical in the long run, even if it may appear “cheaper” to go with larger quantities.

“Let it go!” and embrace Frozen vegetables and fruits

Because these items tend to spoil first, purchasing flash frozen veggies and fruits keeps

waste at a minimum. There have also been studies that suggest that frozen foods, such as these, actually contain more of the nutrients that traditional produce may lose during its shipment and shelf-time in the store.

Stop buying junk food.

It may seem puritanical and boring to advise this, but junk foods, offering no nutritional benefit, also eat at the budget for other foods. Inexpensive they may be, but dollar here, and a dollar there can make a difference when purchasing proteins and produce. Deciding to shy away from junk food also forces you to eat the better foods that you’ve already purchased. A bag of potato chips is not a meal.

Buy dry items in bulk

Cereals, grains, beans, and dried fruits, etc. can be much more economical when purchased from a grocer’s bulk bins. By only purchasing the amount that you need, you reduce the risk of waste and it is often cheaper than buying pre-packaged, name brand equivalents.

Simplify

There is no need to reinvent the wheel. Eggs can make a great meal all by themselves.

Scramble up a few eggs, throw in some seasonings and voila!

Impromptu pizzas can be great, too. Have some extra pita bread? Throw on some cheese and any odd ingredients that you may have lying around in your refrigerator for a satisfying delight. Embellishing canned soups or salads is also a great approach. Not every meal needs to have a side dish.

Invest in small appliances

Half of the battle of cooking is the preparation of all of the raw ingredients. By purchasing a small food processor, rice cooker, or juicer, you can take a lot of the pain out of the process.

It also makes the cleanup process a breeze by limiting the amount of items needed for the task.

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Put it on ice

Find a sale on protein or veggies? Buy what you can afford and freeze what you know you won’t need immediately.

Most items can last up to six months in a frozen state. Pulling from the freezer to the cooler to let it thaw is a lot easier than rushing out to the store when it’s time to make the next meal.

Plan Ahead

Maybe you struggle in this area. Planning meals in advance not only helps with grocery shopping, but also saves time.

You won’t be wasting precious free time trying to come up with a meal if you’ve already got a plan in place. It may seem silly, but planning meals also can give you something to which you can look forward. Taco Tuesday, Pizza Friday, or Wok Wednesday are all great ideas.

REGISTER ~ CELEBRATEMARRIAGEEQUALITYPA.COM

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IT’S A SCREAM

HALLOWEEN

ACTIVITIES

By Mike Buzzelli Here are five fun things to do for Halloween in Pittsburgh. You might be too old to go door-to-door looking for candy, but we have a few fall activities for Halloween.

A PHANTOM’S REVENGE Looking for some cheap thrills? Okay, how about some reasonably priced thrills? Come out to Kennywood Park for Phantom Fright Nights. Not only are all the regular rides in full swing (literally and figuratively), there are several haunted attractions operating, with a cast of scary characters roaming the park (ideal for photo opportunities). Check out BioFear for Sci-Fi fun, the Voodoo Bayou takes the Raging Rapids and turns them into the Raging Cajuns, or sink your teeth into the Villa of the Vampires.

Fright Nights start at seven, but it’s suggested that you arrive early to get a good spot in line. The park fills up during the Phantom festivities.

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SCARY, SCARY NIGHTS It’s Pittsburgh’s scariest haunted house. Scare House is up and running, and you will be up and running away from it.

Even the attractions sound scary. You can wander through the Summoning, Pittsburgh Zombies: Black Out, and Creepo’s Christmas in 3D! For an even more terrifying experience check out the basement. Basements are always scary.

The ScareHouse is located at 118 Locust Street, Etna, PA 15223. For more information, hours, parking, etc. Call 412781-5885 or visit them online at www.scarehouse.com.

GHOST OF A CHANCE Go on a real ghost tour (real being a subjective term). Take the Haunted Pittsburgh Ghost Tour. Se;ect the Oakland Tour, the Downtown Tour or the Incline Tour. A docent will take you around and tell you all about the haunted places in Pittsburgh. You might even learn about the history of the Steel City.

For more information, check out www.hauntedpittsburghtours.com.

LET’S DO THE TIME WARP AGAIN! What is Halloween without Richard O’Brien’s madcap sex romp, The Rocky Horror Picture Show? The tonguein-cheek (and everywhere else) show is about Brad Majors and Janet Weiss exploring their sexuality when they meet the way-way-out Dr. Frank N. Furter. The mad scientist is building the perfect man, with blond hair and a tan, but his servants, Riff Raff and Magenta, and Brad and Janet’s old science professor, Dr. Scott, wants to spoil all the fun.

Join the Junior Chamber of Commerce Players in Dormont and let’s do the Time Warp again at the Hollywood Theater in Dormont, 1449 Potomac Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA. 15216.

THERE WILL BE BLOOD Midnight Radio is back with “SCarrie: The musical.” You probably didn’t even know you wanted a musical version of Carrie, written by Tami Dixon (South Side Stories). It’s a unique spin on the Stephen King novel done in the Midnight Radio style. There will be blood. Buckets of blood.

Midnight Radio: SCarrie runs from October 23 to November 8 at the Bricolage, 937 Liberty Avenue, 1st Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 (blocks away from three of your favorite gay bars). For more information call 412-4710999 or visit www.bricolagepgh.org.

THE PITTSBURGH CULTURAL TRUST PRESENTS

UNDERWRITTEN BY RICHARD E. RAUH

DIRECT FROM BROADWAY!

JARROD SPECTOR MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10 • 7:30PM CABARET AT THEATER SQUARE TrustArts.org • Box Office at Theater Square 412-456-6666 • Groups 10+ Tickets 412-471-6930

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, H S C A T I E W PL FEATURE

Equal Magazine celebrates the magic of evil queens.

To commemorate the season, we gathered together a few of Pittsburgh’s wicked ones for a bewitching photo shoot to play homage to the cult classic “The Witches of Eastwick”.

We collected their thoughts on the top ten witches from cinema and the top three witches from TV for one spellbinding list.

This Halloween, we encourage you to gather your own coven together, fix yourself a potion and create your own list. It will be cackling fun to see if your ghoulfriends agree with your list.

We limited the choices to actual witches and excluded politicians Sara Palin , Ann Coulter and Ms. “I’m not a witch “ Christine O’Donnell.

Special thanks to Joe King, Marsha Monster Mellow, Jezebell Bebbington and Blade Mathews for channeling icons: Jack Nicholson, Susan Sarandon, Michelle Pfeiffer and Cher.

CINEMA 10. We kick off this list with the most animated witch of all time and celebrate Ursula the sea with from The Little Mermaid. We think she may be part drag queen.

9. Veronica Lake as Jennifer in “I Married a Witch” & Bette Davis in “My Wicked Step Mother” tie for ninth place. These classics are worth a second look.

8. Mabel King as Evilene the Wicked Witch of the West in The Wiz. Don’t nobody bring her no bad news.

7. Irma P. Hall as the voodoo priestess “Minerva” in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil 6. Maggie Smith as Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter series. ( sorry Hermione, you just got schooled!)

5. The Sanderson Sisters from “Hocus Pocus” (We had to count them as one) This classic was panned by critics, but we can’t get enough of Kathy Najimy, Sarah Jessica Parker and our gay comedy savior Bette Midler.

4. Angelina Jolie as Maleficent, her black cat like performance gives us afterlife as she camps up the Disney classic with one-liners that seethe from her sharp tongue like a bitchy snake.

3. The Witches of Eastwick- Our cover inspiration had to be counted as one witch too, besides how could you choose just one favorite from the stellar cast of Michelle Pfeiffer, Susan Sarandon and Cher?

the West- Hands down the wickedest witch around! All others are green with envy.

TOP THREE TV: 1. Alyson Hannigan as Willow Rosenberg from “Buffy The Vampire Slayer” The second gayest witch on TV. 2. Agnes Moorehead as Endora in “Bewitched” our favorite Technicolor witch proved that you don’t have to wear black to be memorable.

3. We gagged over all the women from Miss Robichaux’s Academy for Exceptional Young Ladies in “American Horror Story- Coven” but this season, Jessica Lange put a spell on us!

HONORABLE MENTIONS: 1. Pittsburgh’s own Sharon Needles- The fiercest witch we all know.

2. Paul Lynde as Uncle Arthur (the gayest witch on TV) 3. Elvira- Mistress of the Night (was she a witch?-does it matter?)

2. Angelica Houston as the fiercely grotesque Grand High Witch in The Witches.

1. Margot Hamilton as the Wicked Witch of

Images courtesy of Walt Disney Pictures, Jim Henson Productions, Lorimar Film Entertainment, Warner Bros., Roth Films, Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, Kevin Scanlon, Elvira Inc. , Walt Disney Feature Animation, ABC, Sony Pictures Television, Ashmont Productions, Screen Gems, FX, 20th Century Fox Television, Ryan Murphy Productions, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer 42

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HOT GUY READS A BOOK

Jake

Toloso

on Screaming With The CannibalsBehind” by Lee Maynard Photo by Mara Rago Screaming With The Cannibals is the second in a trilogy of semi-autobiographical novels by Lee Maynard that details the life of a boy growing up and leaving (escaping from) 1950’s Crum, West Virginia. It is a coming of age story with a slathering of coal grime and an Appalachian heap of white trash. An NPR book review led me to the series with a story line that reminds me of my own departure from the ruralesque and backwoodsish environs of my upbringing. Certainly the realities of midcentury SWWV and 1980’s NWLA are miles apart but the aspirations of small town boys to get across this wide country are a timeless tale.

Jake Toloso is a Petroleum Landman who rode the wave of Marcellus Natural Gas Production to Pittsburgh from New Orleans, Louisiana. Born and raised in Northwest Louisiana, Jake’s work has taken him across the US from Utah, Colorado and New Mexico to Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Though he has seen America, he can be heard Friday nights on a bar stool at Lawrenceville’s Tender Bar & Kitchen extolling the virtues of Pittsburgh, his happy new home since August 2013. Jake lives in the South Side with Clyde the Rottweiler, Dr. Willis the Tuxedo Kitty and Brian the Straight Man.

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Eq u al Mag az i n e.o r g

Nightmare on Hellsworth

4 2 R E B O T E C D I O S , Y D Y A A H RID E/S 11PM

F

V A H T R O ELLSW

7-

ALSO FEATURING

DANCE DIVA REINA

DJ/SONGWRITER RYAN SKYY

STEVE GRAND

NEON HITCH

W AT TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOCK DELTAFOUNDATION.US/TI ETS Costumes are encouraged