PQ Monthly August/September 2016

STORM LARGE

PORTLAND

QUEEN OF THE QUEERS

TURN A LOOK: VIRGO HERS ASSO BLIS CI PU AT Y I T

NATIONAL EQU AL I

E OM C

N! O

W EL

PQMONTHLY.COM

G

ROSEHIP MEDIC COLLECTIVE—TAKING HEALTHCARE TO THE STREETS

N O

FAT FANCY: FASHION THAT’S FAT AS F*CK!

POR TLAND, O RE TO

DON’T TOUCH MY HAIR: “SO, I’M WOKE… NOW WHAT?”

2 • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016

pqmonthly.com

PQ TEAM Melanie Davis

Owner/Publisher melanie@pqmonthly.com

chris Àlvarez

Art Director chris@pqmonthly.com

editorial Sossity Chiricuzio Editorial Assistant

Max Voltage Copy Editor

Matt Pizzuti

Reporter & Calendar Editor calendar@pqmonthly.com

OLIVIA OLIVIA

Brilliant Media Correspondent

monty herron

Brilliant Media Correspondent

Shaley Howard Regular Contributor

TJAcena

Arts & Entertainment

George Nicola GLAPN Historian

Suzanne Deakins,Ph.D.,H.W.M. Regular Contributor GLAPN

SALES TEAM larry lewis

Sales Representative larry@pqmonthly.com

lynda Wilkinson Sales Representative lynda@pqmonthly.com

National Advertising Rivendell Media 212-242-6863 sales@rivendellmedia.com

photographers Dax McMillan Photographer

Nestor Miranda Photographer

Columnists &contributors

Samantha L. Taylor, Michael James Schneider, Leo Bancroft, Summer Seasons, Marco Davis, Kathryn Martini, Sally Mulligan, Katey Pants, Queer Intersections

#PulsePride #ThatsMyPDX Welcome National Equality Publishers Association to Portland, Oregon

By Melanie Davis, Brilliant Media llc.

As Co-founder and Co-Chair of the National Equality Publishers Association (NEPA), it brings me great pleasure to bring the biannual conference of LGBTQ Publishers to the city I love!

A few years ago I was urged to take a call from Lynda Wilkinson and on the other line was Jerry Cunningham, publisher of Out Front Colorado.

He and I got to talking about our industry, community, networking and bringing our Publishers together. Our first meeting took place in Chicago during the National Lesbian and Gay Journalist Association’s convention.

It was a breath of fresh air to be in a room filled with like-minded individuals that I now had the humble opportunity to call colleagues. Jerry asked me to be the keynote – I freaked, the F out!

I mean seriously, I was about to address a room filled with people like Mark Segal who is the founder of legacy publication Philadelphia Gay News, to Sue O’Connell the co-publisher of Bay Windows, New England’s largest newspaper serving the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community.

What would I SAY?!?

Well, I told them the truth – my truth. The crazy road a Chicana takes from Albuquerque, NM to Portland, Oregon. The path that leads us to live our Brilliant Media mission of having every letter and every color represented. I shared with them our unity and what we make us #ProudQueers in the NW. I summoned every talent I knew and started to ask the audience to think about what it would look like if, although our organization

still in its infancy, could envision uniting with some of the already existing Publisher Associations.

You see Brilliant Media’s sister publication; El Hispanic News has had a very long a fruitful relationship with the National Association of Hispanic Publication (NAHP) which is also partnered with The National Newspaper Publishers Association – The Black Press of America. I shared with our newly formed organization the power this unity has on D.C. politics and the road to equality. We are honored to share that it will be here in Portland, Oregon that a formal relationship with this organization will be formed.

Now understanding that we have been called to task at both the national and local level since the massacre on June 12th, 2016. In doing so our bi-annual conference, be held at the Jupiter Hotel in Portland Oregon on August 17th – 20th, 2016, NEPA is proud to announce as part of its agenda on Thursday, August 18th, 2016 from 8 am to noon we will be hosting an Innovative LGBTQ Marketing and Community Building Workshop. Our keynote speaker will be the Director of The LGBT Center in Orlando, Terry De Carlo. This event is sponsored by Travel Portland. It is a free event for NEPA Members, discount tickets are to Travel Portland Members. NEPA members unanimously agreed that a portion of the proceeds should be split evenly between the two community centers and have since partnered with both the LGBT Center in Orlando, Florida and the Q Center of Portland, Oregon.

If you would like to be a sponsor, buy a table, sponsor youth, or purchase tickets, please go to www.pqmonthly.com for additional information. We will be hosting the NEPA Publishers from around the country at the PQ Press Party held from 5 pm to 7 pm at the Jupiter Hotel; as always the PQ Press Party is free and open to the public. Join us in celebrating the work of LGBTQ Publishers from around the US and honoring the work of Terry DeCarol #PulsePrideInPDX! Your Publisher, Melanie

A SMATTERING OF WHAT YOU’LL FIND INSIDE:

503.228.3139

Rosehip Medic Collective..................................Page 5

Events Calendar.............................................................Page 14-15

proudqueer.com

Fat Fancy: fashion that’s fat as f*ck!.................. Page 9

Tried and True – Proud Queer Business Success... Page 16

Money Talks ........................................................ Page 10

The David behind ThInK tAnK $tUdIo$................... Page 18

Finding Leo........................................................... Page 11

Embody: Self Care, Community Share................... Page 25

THE NATIONAL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE OF PQ MONTHLY IS RIVENDELL MEDIA, INC. BRILLIANT MEDIA LLC, DBA EL HISPANIC NEWS & PQ MONTHLY.

pqmonthly.com

Interview With Storm Large................................... Page 12

AND MUCH MORE! AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 • 3

YOUR HEART IS CALLING YOU

Bethesda provides homes and services for people with developmental disabilities so they can live the lives they want.

We are looking for people like you who want to make a difference in someone else’s life.

http://bethesdalutherancommunities.org/

Employment Hotline: 503.200.5765 To apply directly visit: www.Bethesdajobs.org

PQ PRESS PARTY! AUGUST 18TH

Co-Hosted by the National Equality Publishers Association. Come meet LGBTQ Publishers from around the country with special guest: Terry De Carlo, Director of The LGBT Center in Orlando

& • August 18th, 2016, 5P.M.-7 P.M. : JUPITER HOTEL ( 800 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214 )

Next up - September 15th: Hosted by salvageworkspdx at Salvage Works, featuring art by David Lynch of Think Tank Studio. *Beer provided by Backwoods Brewing *Live music by Cedar Teeth *Food carts Your LOCAL full-service marketing agency that will connect you with the diverse populations of Oregon and SW Washington

• September 15th 2016, 5P.M.-7 P.M. : SALVAGE WORKS ( 2024 N Argyle St, Portland, OR 97217 ) Like us on Facebook for details on the press parties & all things PQ Monthly!

WWW.SUPUBLICO.COM

Exceptional, personalized, comprehensive care for your best friend.

ALBERTAVETCARE.COM

1737 NE Alberta suite 102, Portland, OR 97211 - Call: 503-206-7700 4 • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016

pqmonthly.com

FEATURE CALENDAR

ROSEHIP MEDIC COLLECTIVE—TAKING HEALTHCARE TO THE STREETS

By Sossity Chiricuzio, PQ Monthly

Health care belongs only in the hands of medical authorities—at least, that’s what our current corporate medical system advertises and capitalizes on. I agree that some things are best left to a surgeon (or at least someone with a very solid grasp of human anatomy,) but what happens when you’re in the middle of a riot, or a natural disaster?

The Rosehip Medic Collective is made up of EMT’s, herbalists, naturopaths, Wilderness First Responders and more, all volunteering their time providing emergency care and first aid at sites of resistance and struggle.

They don’t horde their knowledge, either, training other street medics and offering community wellness and emergency preparedness workshops.

PQ: How and when was the idea of the collective born?

Rosehip Medic Collective: The Rosehips grew out of a network that started in 2006 called the Portland Street Medics. That group formed to provide a centralized way for organizers and community members to request street medics for actions and protests, and to fill the shoes of Portland Black Cross, one of the first street medic collectives in the country, which had disbanded.

After members of Portland Street Medics traveled to and worked at the DNC and RNC in 2008, they saw the positive impact of formal and consistent organizing of infrastructure in the social justice movement, and formed Rosehip as a closed collective to build local medic infrastructure.

Over time, Rosehip has further developed our street medic training, and has also branched into community first aid and disaster preparedness training, and built curriculum aimed at being accessible and useful to people who have very limited access to healthcare.

PQ: You obviously have a radical awareness of both the current system, and the changes that may be closer than we think—how does this play out in your trainings and community interactions?

RMC: Rosehip focuses on building community health infrastructure that prioritizes the needs of people least served by our current healthcare system. This means that our trainings emphasize key elements we feel are lacking in corporate medical settings. We place a huge priority on building a consent culture into our trainings, and

pqmonthly.com

emphasizing informed and empowered consent in all our interactions. We also approach all of our training using an anti-oppression analysis and exploring barriers to care for different communities. Rosehip is, and has always been, majority (and sometimes completely) queer and/or trans, and queer and trans-positive care is central to our work. We also talk a lot in our trainings about working with people with financial or other barriers to pursuing emergency care, and how to help someone weigh their financial and other needs against their need to access care.

PQ: In terms of handling medical emergencies or natural disasters, how prepared would you say the queer community is?

RMC: On a basic level, most communities that have experienced oppression and needed to develop their own means of supporting one another are better equipped to face disasters and emergencies.

When it comes down to it, the important things to know in those situations are who your neighbors are, what needs and skills they have, and how you can work together to meet each others’ needs. The queer community has a leg up in that many of us have learned a lot about how to care for one another, because we’ve experienced hardship and alienation from more mainstream support resources. In many ways we are more connected to each other, and that can only help us in a large-scale disaster.

But Rosehip doesn’t define disaster preparedness as whether we as individuals or small pockets of community can survive. Instead, we look at the most vulnerable parts of our city, and ask ourselves whether we are prepared to respond in a way that will center the needs of those communities – because history has shown us that those communities will be disproportionately affected by disaster and by choices made in the recovery process. The queer community is well connected within itself, but do we have strong relationships with communities of color in Portland, with elderly individuals and communities, and with houseless communities and people experiencing chronic health conditions? We have some work to do before we can call ourselves prepared in that way, and that’s the way that makes the difference between communities rising together, or disadvantaged individuals falling through the cracks.

PQ: What would you say are the top three skills and/or resources that we could acquire that would best enable us

to survive and help others in a situation like those above?

RMC: The most important thing to help us be prepared is to take a hard, ego-free look at who is already slipping through the cracks and being forgotten in our communities. Those are the people and groups that tend to suffer most in a disaster, and building ties to people in that position will help prepare for emergency, but also help us in the chronic disaster of capitalist individualism that we’re already in. Get to know the areas you frequent – not just your home neighborhood, but the area around your work or wherever you spend the most time. Focus on getting to know people who are least visible and prominent.

Second, build yourself a basic disaster and first aid kit - ready.gov has some great information about what to include (don’t get too focused on expensive gadgets, and only pack things you know how to use).

Third, pay attention to how you respond to stress, and get some training in emotionally supporting others in a stressful situation. Almost every disaster or medical emergency also becomes an emotional crisis to some degree, and if you can support yourself and others through that, you’ll be much better positioned to tackle the rest of the problem.

And find some training if you’re interested! Come train with Rosehip, or go through the Portland Neighborhood Emergency Team training and join your neighborhood’s team.

PQ: Tell us about your original piece of theater called Holding onto the Sky; about community and disaster in Portland.

RMC: Faultline Ensemble did a remount of that show in February of this year. Part of that show grew out of stories by health workers that Rosehip gathered into an anthology that was released as the Alternatives to Emergency Medical Services Anthology zine. Partly inspired by that project, some members of Faultline are now working on a new performance about psychological trauma and resilience in people working in Emergency Medical Services. That project is getting its start at CoHo Productions’ Summer Workshop Lab in August, and will be building from there into a finished production. In terms of other runs of Holding onto the Sky, stay tuned – there isn’t anything on the table yet, but that play tends to raise its head and demand to be performed every once in a while. You can follow Faultline at facebook.com/faultlineensemble, and keep up with Rosehip news at www.rosehipmedics.org.

End note: If you have questions, or topics you’d like me to cover, products you’d like me to review, people you’d like to hear from, or resources to share, please get in touch! sossity@pqmonthly.com

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 • 5

6 • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016

pqmonthly.com

pqmonthly.com

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 • 7

8 • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016

pqmonthly.com

NEWS FEATURE

FAT FANCY: FASHION THAT’S FAT AS F*CK!

By Samantha L. Taylor

PICTURED L TO R: ELLE PETERS, SAMANTHA L. TAYLOR (IN A BETH DITTO ORIGINAL!), AND BEE THORNTON

pqmonthly.com

When we think of queer businesses and queer business owners are we looking at the intersections? Do we bear in mind queers who exist in the world as more than just queer?

Are we considering our most vulnerable siblings and how they may or may not access queer businesses?

Elle Peters and Bee Thornton, the new owners of Fat Fancy are using fashion as a vehicle to find answers to these questions.

Fat Fancy is a plus size clothing store located in Southeast Portland for fatties of any size and gender.

Spending their college years cutting their activist teeth on campus organizing, Elle and Bee use their individual and collective knowledge and experiences of challenging varying forms of oppression on campus and in their own lives as motivation to continue the legacy created by Carlee and Annie. In the past, they have supported Portland area fat folks by hosting public events, readings, and employing our peers and friends. Activities that Elle and Bee hope to recreate and expand upon.

During my interview, Elle and Bee both spoke to the deep level of responsibility they feel to both Carlee and Annie, but also to our community. As local business owners and community members, they have a shared goal: to uplift, support, affirm, and inspire all fat people who come to their store. Based on this goal, Elle shared with me her thoughts on the importance of the continued existence of Fat Fancy: “It’s so much bigger than a clothing store; as much as it is exactly that. For several reasons I would not exist as the person I am today without Fat Fancy existing, not

without Carlee and Annie doing this very amazing, very public, very huge work. It’s a responsibility of ours to make sure Fat Fancy can reach as many people as possible. It’s important to me [that] as white folks who have bought a business from women of color and queer folks, that we continue to do the work of having a lot of people represented…

Though we are the owners, we don’t stand alone. We’re in this community together.”

Elle and Bee see Fat Fancy as their shared home. A place where fatties can come and be affirmed as who they are; break out of their comfort zone. They give fat people the opportunity to take risks with their fashion in a safe and fun environment. Moreover, their intersectional feminist analysis on race and gender makes space for our most vulnerable fat community members to find comfort and sanctuary at Fat Fancy.

Bee’s working class roots make them a savvy business owner with an intimate understanding of what it means for fat folks to have access to clothes that not only look and feel good, but are also gender affirming.

“I want to style people and make them feel beautiful because fuck capitalism. They deserve to look and feel good, and be seen.”

Beth Ditto, of The Gossip, has always been a strong supporter of Fat Fancy. She regularly donates her amazing clothes to the shop!

Be a part of the future of Fat Fancy and visit the store!

Follow them on Facebook and Instagram, to stay in the loop on upcoming events and a Super Secret Project to be announced this fall! Be the first to know about identity specific shopping sessions for people of color, trans folks, and superfats!

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 • 9

NEWS FEATURE

FEATURE

MONEY TALKS

By Suzanne Deakins, PQ Monthly

Money talks is a very old saying that applies to our community. In 2007 the national business organization for GLBTQ business told us, as a group, we were in the top 30% earners in the USA. Entrepreneurs make up a good bit of Oregon’s tax base. Small businesses have always been the basis for a healthy economy and capital growth.

More than 1 million jobs were created by GLBTQ businesses between 2005-2014. Five percent of the businesses owned by GLBTQ people have net-worth of over 5 million USD. Lesbian owned business fair a bit lower than our Gay brothers.

(No figures on Transgender, Bi-sexual, and Queer business were available).

Along this same line, 75% of businesses in Oregon have 9 or fewer employees. Oregon has long been a small business state. Buying power of LGBT population was 830 million in 2013 and continues to grow according to an analysis by Witeck Communications.

NGLCC says that “LGBT buying power is diverse in ethnicity and socioeconomic status, and we are an incredibly loyal constituency.”

I could not find the statistic on the percentage of our community who are entrepreneurs, but my guess is that 70% of us work for ourselves or for someone in our community who runs their own business.

GLBTQ businesses created billions of dollars in revenue last year. This is a power that cannot be overlooked.

This is where PABA (Portland Area Business Association) becomes essential to our community. Among many of its goals is to help GLBT nascent entrepreneurs build their businesses, establish an atmosphere where they can network with others including our straight allies. PABA’s goal is to encourage business development through building community and inclusion.

The importance of entrepreneurs in our community cannot be understated. The more our community has earning power that talks, the easier it will be to gain equal rights on all fronts. Economic equality is a critical step along the continuum of progress for our GLBTQ community. PABA plays an important part of this process.

PABA offers help to the businessperson through mentorship, coaching, and hands-on learning that helps the start-ups.

Insights and education into business development and professional advancement are offered in monthly luncheon meetings and after-hours gatherings. These meetings and gatherings also help PABA members become grounded and viable through networking with others in the GLBTQ communities and our supportive allies. Seminars that focus on everything from bookkeeping to marketing help businesses in build10 • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016

ing lasting foundations.

PABA leadership actively seek connections with other business associations and minority chambers. In PABA’s process of facilitating the success of its member businesses, PABA members help create more jobs for Portlanders of all identities and contributes considerably to Portland metro’s economic vitality. This has contributed to Portland being ranked #1 in 2015 as the place to live for the GLBTQ community. PABA’s membership is filled with 200 active members. Approximately 80 percent own their own business. The membership is a combination of GLBTQ owners and our straight allies. PABA promotes inclusiveness in the membership and good hiring practices for our community.

Founded in 1992, PABA was the recipient of the 2015 Spirit of Portland Award in the category of Business Association of the Year.

On a personal note. I have been in my own business since 1979. Living in NYC I often felt adrift. There was no business organization where I could speak freely or locate other GLBTQ business people. When I came to Portland it was like a breath of fresh air to find PABA. Being able to vocalize concerns and make connections in our community was in many ways a lifesaver.

I made many friends from our community.

I look with pride to such entrepreneurs as Jackie Wheatley and her Rainbow Accounting, Michael Long and his law practice, Donald Falk, Celia Lyons, Melanie Davis, and so many more I cannot begin to name them all. I watched Cory Kaster graduate from College and start his own successful business. And watched so many more young people who chose to become entrepreneurs and used PABA as a foundation for their start-up. I proudly served as Secretary of PABA along with Larry Foltz who was President. A large shout out to Paul Finlay for help with some of the information for this article.

You can find meeting times and dates and more information on PABA at http:// www.paba.com/

Suzanne Deakins, Ph., D. is the Author of Back to The Basics Management, The Lost Craft of Leadership. First published in 1981 this book on humanistic management practices has been printed in 8 languages including Japanese and Chinese and used at Fordham, Columbia, and many other universities in their management programs. It is available on Amazon. Ms. Deakins has taught at St John’s University in their management department, as well as PACE University, and Shundee Technical University, in Fushun, China in Guangdong province. She is currently Treasurer on the Board of GLAPN (Gay Lesbian Archives of Pacific Northwest) and a member of PQ writing staff. pqmonthly.com

VOICES

FEATURE

FINDING LEO Three Glass Marbles

By Leo Bancroft, PQ Monthly

The other day I had a conversation about feelings, specifically my anger and frustration with all of the hate and violence of the world. I was given an exercise to try. I chose three stones from a bowl. One blue. One red.

One green. They weren’t really stones, but glass marbles, but because of the heaviness of what they represented, they seemed as stones to me. I held them in the palm of my hand as we spoke, the colors glowing with the ambient light against my palm, the glass cool and hard.

I set the glossy stones on the table and selected the blue one. Pale and clear, it represented tears. Tears of anger and sorrow.

Another death from hatred of skin color.

Another act of violence against the trans community. Another vile and bullying rant from politicians and their supporters on social media. I held my grief and rage in my hand and then set it down. I cannot hold it all the time.

I selected the red stone and held it up to the light. Sun from the window pierced the dark marble. It looked like a ruby, or heart of fire. This was my joy. I remembered all of the generosity in our community. I celebrated the love expressed in vows as friends married. I delighted in the memory of a new and scary trick in trapeze class and being liberated by the height and flight, and the encouraging instruction from my teachers. I placed the red stone next to the blue stone. Both of these feelings are true and exist side by side.

Finally I picked up the green stone. The green was so light, the stone was almost clear. I held it up to the window and could see out to the horizon, though the perspective was upside down. The earth was sky, and sky was the ground. This stone was dreaming and hope.

Like Mary in the Magnificat (Luke 1:4655), I long for a reversal of the way things are now. Instead of hate, let there be love. Instead of fear and hunger, let there be joy and abundance. Let the world be a place in which every person is celebrated as a beloved, unique creation, and no one is turned away or left out.

Now I hold the green stone in my palm and dream. I see my hand through the translucent marble. How can our own hands bring about this world of peace and grace?

I am thrilled that the Lutheran Church in Oregon (ELCA) has hired me to be an advocate for the LGBTQIA community. With one part of this role, I am continuing to work with churches to help them learn how to have the conversation about welcome, inclusion, and celebration of all gender identities and sexual orientations. Along with many

other leaders, we are creating safe places of community, and helping congregations live out their commitment to welcome.

Even more exciting, I think, is the larger piece of this new role. Reaching out into the LGBTQIA community, we are listening to the stories of both pain and joy of people’s experiences with the church. All sorts of faith communities have done real harm to our community. I am grateful that we want to acknowledge this harsh truth and work for healing. Sadly, the church has helped create a society where parents kick out their children, or struggle to love them. We hear the stories of attempted suicide, homelessness, and addiction as a means to escape the racism, homophobia, and transphobia that the church helps perpetuate. Some church traditions have been silent in the face of this.

Others have preached hate outright. There is very good reason for our communities to distrust the church.

We want to acknowledge this, and as part of the church’s response, we are exploring the creation of an alternative worshiping community. What does this mean? We are learning. There are certainly already many safe places for LGBTQ people to gather in a faith community. You can find many of these for all sorts of faith communities at this link: http://www.welcomingresources. org/usa.htm Recognizing the vast variety of backgrounds and experiences people have with the church, we dare to hope that we can also make a difference, alongside these other faith communities. We are in the dreaming phase of creating a new safe space for LGBTQIA people and allies to share our stories, our joys and struggles, explore our own sense of faith and spirituality, and support one another as we build relationships.

I want to thank the Lutheran Church in Oregon (ELCA) for putting their money where their faith is and investing in creating this new community. I am endlessly grateful for the leadership and compassion of Bishop Dave Brauer-Rieke and Pastor Michael Keys who wrote the grant for this project, and supervise me in this journey.

I pick up the three stones again and hold them all in my hand. They make little clicking sounds as they bump into each other in my palm. Our lives are complex, and contain many emotions and experiences.

Often we have conflicting feelings side by side. Indeed, we can never know the depth of what another person is holding in their hearts. I dream of a world where we listen to one another, and help each other carry the burden of tears, celebrate life’s delights, and dwell in hope.

Leo Bancroft is a Lutheran trans man. He volunteers on the boards of Cascade AIDS Project and ReconcilingWorks. You can reach him at leo@pqmonthly.com.

pqmonthly.com

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 • 11

FEATURE

INTERVIEW WITH STORM LARGE: QUEEN OF THE QUEERS

By Shaley Howard, PQ Monthly

stubbornness and sense of who I am, authentically, saved me from most male-dominated situations.

In general, though, when men try to “put me in my place” or undermine me because I’m a woman…it usually ends badly for them.

Storm Large. Her name alone commands attention. She’s a singer, a writer, an actor, an activist and a voice to be reckoned with. Born and raised in Southborough Massachusetts, Storm moved to Portland Oregon in the early 2000’s. Many people I’m sure remember the outlandish and titillating performances of ‘Storm and the Balls’ at Dante’s nightclub.

She went on to write an autobiography called Crazy Enough and performed it in a onewoman show at the Portland Center Stage – all of which received glowing reviews. Currently she’s touring with Pink Martini and is working on a musical piece for a theater.

Clearly Storm Large is an extremely talented artist and performer, and I might add – sexy as hell. But she is also a woman who speaks out, often loudly, against inequity and injustice of any kind and advocates for those not being heard. I had the honor of asking Storm a few questions a while back about her music, her politics and ideas on gender and sexual fluidity.

PQ: How has music in general from your experience evolved over your lifetime?

Large: I have recently become a bit of a curmudgeon and think most big, glossy pop music nowadays is just garbage. It all sounds so temporary and disposable. Dumb, easy phrases about bullshit repeated through so much electronic gloss that it could be the same person singing all of it. On the other hand, nobody has to be a big glossy pop star to get their music out there. It’s a glorious thing.

There is so much access to INCREDIBLE art.

Metal, folk, hip hop, punk, crazy crazy shit that the big glossy pop people will never get their shiny expensive fingers around.

PQ: What experiences and lessons have you taken away from being a female in a very male-dominated music industry?

Large: It’s a male-dominated WORLDWORLD, but luck y for me, I was raised in a very male house, so I grew up being male-identified. Through my little girl perception, men were strong and in charge, women were weak. I refused to be weak, and for a long time, that meant refusing to embrace my woman-ness. I’m much softer now, but still pretty dude-like in my mind.

I only notice sexism in how some people underestimate my intelligence or work ethic. That has a lot to do with my appearance, also….you know...playing the sex pot onstage...boobs, lips and all that stuff. Truthfully, though, I have been an independent musician my whole career. I had labels court me, A&R dickheads wanting three-ways, VERY IMPORTANT MEN IN THE BUSINESS give me “free” advice as to how to “MAKE IT” in “THE BUSINESS” and though I was just a dumb rock singer at the time, I knew they were full of shit and/or completely wrong. My

PQ: What current projects are you working on?

Large: Writing as much as I can until I truly believe I don’t suck. May never happen….but I’m trying. Writing songs, stories and music for a musical theater piece about prostitutes in the turn of the 20th century in Chicago.

PQ: When writing, is your material about men mostly or women?

Large: In the musical it’s mostly about woman, in general, everyone is hated and loved equally. I write my own music, but I’m a much better collaborator. I get lonely.

PQ: When creating something new whether it’s through music, writing or acting, is there something you are trying to communicate to your audience?

Large: Usually I am trying to get everyone to see the similarities between themselves and the other, whatever that “other” may be. Humans have a tendency to seek safety in likeSTORM LARGE page 13

SEPTEMBER PQ PRESS PARTY! Hosted by salvageworkspdx at Salvage Works, featuring art by David Lynch of Think Tank Studio. *Beer provided by Backwoods Brewing *Live music by Cedar Teeth *Food carts

• September 15th 2016, 5P.M.-7 P.M. : SALVAGE WORKS ( 2024 N Argyle St, Portland, OR 97217 ) 12 • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016

pqmonthly.com

FEATURES minded company. It’s a natural thing, it doesn’t mean we are automatic whatever-ists…we’re Continued from page 12 just scared, generally. Growing up super lonely, feeling alienated, made me develop a tendency to be a clown, a jack ass….entertaining so more people would want me around. It was a defense, I guess, but in all my travels and the humans I’ve known and/or entertained, I’ve found that most everyone has a lonely part. That lonely part seems to be the thing everyone has, that everyone tries to fill up and protect, often in doing so, we exclude, alienate or even vilify others. I think accepting each other’s differences and understanding our sameness makes everyone less lonely. And if I can be the motivator of that communion, even if it’s temporary, then I sleep better.

STORM LARGE

PQ: Are you more of a Hillary or Bernie fan?

Large: I’m leaning towards Bernie, but his (and everyone’s) supporters are getting so fucking outrageous with their bullshit. I like Bernie, a LOT. BUT I will abso-fuckinglutely vote for Hillary if he doesn’t get the nomination. And vice versa if I ultimately do decide to go Hillz. Hillary is very strong, tough, been through more shit than nearly every swinging dick on the Hill, save for those who’ve seen active military duty. But it is hard for me to not see her as part of the old guard. Yes, she will appoint a liberal Supreme Court justice, yes she will do right by LGBT, yes she will support Planned Parenthood, these are all very important issues to me, but so is financial reform. Taxes suck, but so do most of our schools. Our police are underfunded, out gunned,

PQ: What is your muse?

Large: I have a few. Absurdity and oddball things that crack me up for no reason. Things and people that utterly infuriate me. Things and people who bring me to my knees with their kindness/genius/ beauty/spirit. Insomnia. Art.

Large: Sheesh….I dunno. Despite what some think, I don’t look to shock or be shocked, necessarily. It always shocks me, pleasantly so, when someone with extreme views, left or right, can publicly admit they’re wrong, or come to the table, calmly and constructively, to meet and debate with someone with an opposing view. In other words: If in this shit show clown car pileup of an election lead up….if suddenly, there was conscientious, respectful debate of ideas, my head might explode.

Large: Cooking, hiking, being away from humans in a whole lot of vast nature, or with loved ones in an intimate gathering where we cook, eat, drink, remember, forget, laugh and laugh and laugh. Animals are good, too... horses, dogs. Letting other people take over. Getting laid is also pretty great.

Large: Gratitude is my ladder out of any dark pit.

PQ: You seem to be able to do it all. Is there one area in particular of your craft you enjoy most?

PQ: What advice would you offer to other artists wanting to make it big?

Large: Definitely performing for an audience.

Any audience. The 3 thousand people in a symphony hall, people in line at airports, little kids, octogenarians, my beleaguered friends and family.

Anybody, really.

PQ: Have you always naturally been so funny and witty or was it something you developed to get through life?

Large: I could always sing, but it was way easier to be funny without it looking like I was seeking attention. (Even though that’s EXACTLY what I was doing.)

No idea if it’s a talent, but I would never call myself a comedian….comedians have to have balls bigger and denser than mine.

PQ: Are there any particular causes that currently draw your attention more than others and why?

pqmonthly.com

PQ: As an extrovert who’s clearly has seen a lot in life, what would shock you nowadays?

PQ: Being in the public eye and performing I’m sure is thrilling yet at the same time draining on many levels.

What do you do to recharge?

PQ: When you are feeling down what inspires you?

Large: Nowadays it’s mostly cancer research, LGBT and Planned Parenthood. I am always down to help whenever and however I can, I have always been a left-leaning do-gooder type….but I would be lying if I said all the charity work I’ve done was selfless. I’ve raised hundreds of thousands of dollars (at LEAST…would love to know the actual figure) for gays, women, children, animals, the environment, schools, politicians, victims of disaster, victims of the system, victims of disease, the poor, homeless...you name it, I have screamed into a microphone to raise money and awareness in support of it. Yes, that’s all well and good, but a long time ago, when I was starting out, an opportunity to play in front of ANYONE was an opportunity, period. Plus, I quickly learned, that even though I was playing for free, most charity events would have decent food and booze, and free food and drink, to a musician just starting out, is a sweet ass deal. Up until around ten years ago we would even bring Tupperware to the larger events, so we could take home all the uneaten stuff.

Also, there are always a few cool and interesting people at these things; activists, medical researchers, educators, and often other artists. You eat, drink, gain fans, and learn something, all while helping to make the world a little better in some way? Not a bad exchange for a night’s work.

ville Orchestra. (I’m here to record some songs with them.)

Thomas has been such an unexpected cheerleader for me; I really credit him with pushing me towards what I’m doing now. I never, in my life, saw even a tenth of what Thomas sees in me as a musician. Forever grateful to that man.

and being destroyed from within by stupid racist bullies.

Fracking has to stop. My God. Come ON. Drug companies have to stop taking advantage of frightened old and sick people with absurdly high priced drugs. These rich assholes get protected because they toss Putin amounts of cash at campaigns. It’s obscene, and makes it really hard to have any faith in our system. We are at a really scary place right now where maintaining a cuddly status quo with these criminally inclined tetrazillionaires who’ve been writing all the rules, taking, taking, taking, wanting more, getting it and skull fucking the rest of us…is just historically dangerous. Something has to change. I know Hillary could make some serious changes…I just don’t know that she would.

PQ: Both you and Pink Martini (PM) are loved and adored by Portland. What’s been the biggest reward joining up with Pink Martini?

Large: Working with PM has made me a better performer, a better singer, and has exposed me to a much wider audience. It has totally expanded my world. Years ago, Thomas Lauderdale pushed the Oregon Symphony to put my band and I in their season. I NEVER dreamed I would ever get to sing with an orchestra. And now I am writing to you from the guest room of the music director/ conductor of the Louis-

Large: I would advise them to take a good look at how they define “making it big.” If your motivation is money then pick another gig. If you want to be famous, then prepare for major heartbreak. Fame sucks more than wanting to be famous and never getting there. In the beginning I just wanted to be good, good enough to sell tickets, fill clubs, have audiences leave so happy they would bring more people with them the next time. And hopefully, eventually, get paid a living wage. The living wage part came after 15 years. There are many levels of success, but it’s all malleable…it changes. There is no “IT” to make, big or otherwise. Success is generally surviving by doing something you love. I am now, officially, ‘doing well’ by most economic standards…but only for the last handful of years. So while the sun shines, I make the hay and spread it around. But if money is your goal….music is a dumb choice. You should only sing or play music if it feeds you, drives you, is you…. otherwise you will never survive the heartbreaking thankless broke ass years of being an artist. I’m a lonely soul, so my drive has always been to be loved…my singing and humor make people happy. If people are happy to see me, that is success. Especially if they bring food.

PQ: Do you have any regrets?

Large: Mmmm…yeah, but it’s more my own psychological torture I do to myself. “YOU COULD HAVE BEEN LEARNING AND PRACTICING PIANO/GUITAR/FRENCH/ SPANISH FOR THESE LAST X AMOUNT OF YEARS!!! YOU LAZY DICK.” I bust my own balls all the time. In reality, though, I have fucked up a lot, hurt people (never on purpose….but still) didn’t work hard enough, didn’t do well enough…etc etc…but no regrets. I just try to do better and BE better all the time.

PQ: I heard you identify as bisexual but do not like that particular term and prefer “sexual omnivorous”. Can you expand on your ideas of sexual orientation and identity?

Large: Understanding and accepting sexuality is the final frontier of human evolution. We are collectively so hung up on sexual identity, propriety, cans and can-nots, STORM LARGE page 17

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 • 13

CALENDAR

1

AUGUST 19-21

GET

OUT! Want more? We’ll give you everything. Head over to pqmonthly.com and check out our online calendar of events, submit your own events, and send photos for your event. Also, remember to carefully examine our weekly weekend forecast — with the latest and greatest events — each Wednesday (sometimes Thursday), online only.

--MATT PIZZUTI, CALENDAR EDITOR PQ MONTHLY

Silverados 30th Anniversary Celebration. Come celebrate 35 amazing years with your friendly Silverado staff and Sam Ortiz of the FreedomReigns underwear line. Contests and Prizes for participation.

Dress up or down for the Friday night blacklight party and the Saturday night beach party. Everything kicks off Friday with Kimber Shade’s Power Hour at 9 p.m. All weekend at Silverados, 318 SW 3rd Ave.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 20

MONDAY, AUGUST 22

Heartbeat Silent Disco at Laurelhurst Park. Get together around 6:45 at the park to stretch, lounge, picnic and guarantee you can check out headphones. There

2

Drag Brunch: Testify at Stag with Alexis Campbell Starr. From 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. every Sunday, Starr brings you the city’s hottest drag performers, drink specials (5 for $5 mimosas, $5 American Harvest Bloody Marys), and tasty brunch. Be there promptly at 11, children—it’s a sell-out crowd. Stag, 317 NW Broadway.

Superstar Divas. Bolivia Carmichaels, Honey Bea Hart, Topaz Crawford, Isaiah Tillman, and guest stars perform your favorite pop, Broadway, R&B, rock, and country hits. Dance floor opens after the show. Check out the newest and freshest Diva hits, plus a variety of diverse talent. 8 p.m., CC Slaughters, 219 NW Davis. Free!

DANCE

IT OUT

EVERY MONDAY

Family Home Evening. A weekly, post-work lounge party every Monday night at Vault, featuring DJ Orographic (Bridge Club, Queerlandia) and occasional special guests (Sappho fills in now and then).

Jens Irish serves you happy hour all the live long night. 7 p.m.-11 p.m., Vault, 226 NW 12.

EVERY WEDNESDAY

Amateur night at Stag PDX, though they won’t look like amateurs, trust. Hosted by Godiva Devyne, come gawk at the pretty dancers.

And talk some shit with the Devyne Ms. G. 9 p.m., Stag PDX, 317 NW Broadway.

14 • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26

Lez Stand Up! Voted best comedy night in Portland, this event could be the best LezStandUp yet with Portland’s best comedian Bri Pruitt as guest. Hosted

by Kirsten Kuppenbender, with LSU regulars: Caitlin Weierhauser, Mel Heywood, Laura Anne Whitley, Kupp and sketch-master, Bob Wolf. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. at The Siren Theater, 315 NW Davis St.

WEDNES

Church of Film. “For three the globe for the most off-th subtitles and programs, and the anniversary with drinks a will score two Italian occult u a woman ditches her philand

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27

Undergear. The Portland Eagle’s monthly underwear party is back. Clothes check and raffle provided by the sexy dudes @Cub Cleaners! Check your clothes with them for FREE entry, otherwise it will be $5 at the door. 9 p.m. at the Eagle, 835 N Lombard St.

EVERY SUNDAY

is a requested $5 donation for the use of the headphones and you must have a Valid Driver’s License or ID to check them out. This is a family friendly event. 6 p.m. Text “@ silentPDX” to 23559 for regular updates about upcoming silent discos.

Pan African Women’s Day. A celebration of the militancy, brilliance, and power of the African women, girls, and femmes leading the global struggle for African revolution.

Join for food, discussion, connection, and a celebration of revolutionary African women and femmes! Childcare will be provided. The event is free and open to the public. Doors and food at 5:30 p.m., program begins promptly at 6 p.m. at In Other Words bookstore, 14 NE Killingsworth St. Beer Wars IPA Fest. Taste 30 different IPA’s from 5 Oregon, California, Washington, Colorado and Idaho at a lively street fair outside the brewery.

Entry is free, a tasting glass is $5 with drink tokens for $1. 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at 10 Barrel Brewing, 1411 NW Flanders St.

for a night of hi-concept fash

EVERY THURSDAY

firming space for music and mingling. Correction: Bi/Pan/Fluid/Q 8 p.m., Crush, 1400 SE Morrison.

FIRST SATURDAYS

Slo Jams is a Queer Modern R&B & Neo Soul Dance Night at Local Lounge. DJ II TRILL (TWERK) and DJ MEXXX-TAPE lay down everything from Mary J // Jagged Edge// Keyshia to Badu//Lauryn Etc. 10 p.m., Local Lounge, 3536 NE MLK. $5.

Hip Hop Heaven. Bolivia Carmichaels hosts this hip-hop-heavy soiree night every Thursday night at CCs. Midnight guest performers and shows. Remember those midnight shows at The City? Bolivia does! 9 p.m., CC Slaughters, 219 NW Davis. Free.

Hard Yes presents: Yes Please! Yes Please is a monthly queer dance party for the dark, dirty and fabulous who just wanna dance.

The party also features guest performers from Portland and beyond plus resident DJ Sappho alongside a rotating lineup of guest DJ’s providing you with a healthy dose of: House, techno, deep disco and hard f*ggotry.

Cover $7. 21+. 9 p.m. at Holocene, 1001 SE Morrison St. Sugar Town. DJ Action Slacks. Keywords: Soul, polyester. Great place to find the ladies, to mingle, to get your groove on. 9 p.m., The Spare Room, 4830 NE 42. $5.

Pop Rocks! 80s music aficionado DJ Matt Consola (Bearracuda) is hosting a very special 80s anthem night at Euphoria Nightclub. The space will be enhanced with an 80s theme featuring dancers, games and an official Dungeons & Dragons Gaming Table, visuals, rad 80s movies, drink specials, a photo booth, coat check and special guest DJs. 10 p.m., Euphoria, 315 SE 3. No cover.

Pants Off Dance Off. Come get bold and bawdy at Crush Bar’s monthly clothing-optional dance event, a bar-as-you-dare safe space to break character without risking your day job (no cell phone photos allowed, folks!) Come early—the place gets packed and space is limited. $5 cover after 9 p.m. with a clothes check for $2. 1400 SE Morrison St.

SECOND FRIDAYS

SECOND SATURDAYS

Hot Flash: Inferno. (Second and Fourth Saturdays) In the heart of Portland is where the women are—dancing the night away and burning up dance floors the second and fourth Saturdays of every month at Trio. Welcoming all women, queers, and their allies. DJ Lauren joins Wildfire, and night features dancers from up and down the I-5 corridor. 6 p.m p.m., Trio, 909 E. Burnside.

THIRD MONDAYS

Bump, grind and crash into your favorite queer friends at Gay

CALENDAR SPONSORED BY

SECOND TUESDAYS

Bi Bar—every second Tuesday at Crush, and it’s an open, bi-afpqmonthly.com

SDAY, AUGUST 31

the evening after Portland AIDS Walk. Tickets $810. 10:30 p.m. at 15 NE Hancock St.

e years, Church of Film has been scouring he-beaten path art film, putting together delivering them to the public. Celebrate and a multimedia experience. Vera Rubin ultra-obscurities, Il Fauno (1917), in which dering sculptor husband for one of his demonic statues, and Rapsodia Satanica (1915), a Faustian story in which an older woman makes a pact with the devil to regain her youth, on the condition that she abandons love.” FREE! 8 p.m. at Killingsworth Dynasty, 832 N Killingsworth St.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9

Wine Tasting for AIDS Walk. Enjoy a rooftop event in the Pearl District and benefit AIDS Walk Portland. Enjoy tasty wines and barbeque, 3 drink tickets for a $10 donation. 21+. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Oakwood Portland Pearl District, 1155 NW Everett St.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

PQ Monthly’s September Press Party. Celebrate the release of the September/October issue with PQ staff and local community members and activists. Hosted by Salvageworkspdx at Salvage Works, featuring art by David Lynch of Think Tank Studio, beer from Backwoods Brewing, live music

by Cedar Teeth and food carts. As always, entry into the PQ Press Party is open to all and FREE! 5 p.m. at Salvage Works, 2024 N. Argyle St.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22

this m.-10

Skate. Look for our publisher, who’s always handing out copies of PQ. And, you know, you’ll probably get a date. Every third Monday.

Food drive for Take Action Inc. 7 p.m., Oaks Park, 7805 SE Oaks Park Way. $6.

THIRD TUESDAYS

Beareoke PDX is BACK! Invite all the bears & chasers you know who karaoke. Free! 9 p.m. at Scandals, 1125 SW Stark St.

THIRD WEDNESDAYS

Comedy at Crush: Belinda Carroll and a slew of locals rustle up some funny. Special guests, and Crush’s signature cocktail and food menus. Donations, sliding scale.

(Comics have to eat and drink, too, so give!) 9 p.m., Crush, 1400 SE Morrison.

Queens of the Night: Alexis Campbell Starr. That’s all you need to know. But there’s more: she always welcomes a special slew of talented queens for a night that takes Hip-Hop from beginning to end. 8 p.m., Local Lounge, 3536 NE MLK. Free.

Burlescape! Burlesque & boylesque wrapped in a taste of tease! Zora Phoenix, Isaiah Esquire, Tod Alan. 9 p.m., Crush, 1400 SE Morrison. $10. We’re featuring all of Zora’s events online, so get on the net.

Undergear: Eagle Portland’s monthly underwear, jock, mankini, etc., fetish party every third Saturday.

Free if you arrive before 9 p.m. or if you use free clothes check upon entry after. After 9 p.m. arrivals who do not check clothes must pay $5 entry. Clothes check and raffle prize provided by Cub Cleaners. Eagle Portland, 835 N. Lombard.

Stranger Disco. An always-packed North Portland favorite queer dance party on North Williams; DJs Stormy Roxx, Vera Rubin and Sappho. 21+, $10, starts at 9 p.m., District East, 4306 N. Williams Ave. pqmonthly.com

Noche de Pelicula 2016. PDX Latinx Pride presents a night of films, o ffering four short documentaries brought by director Marco Castro-Bojorquez. See Tremulo, directed by Roberto Fiesco, La Primavera en el Kremlin, directed by Mario de la Torre, A Place in the Middle, directed by

Dean Hammer and Joe Wilson, and Tres Gotas de Agua directed by Castro-Bojorquez. Entry $9 for adults or $7 for students and seniors. 7:00pm at the Hollywood Theatre, 4122 NE Sandy Blvd.

Saturday, September 10

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10

THIRD SATURDAYS

Pride Preview

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27

Wanda Sykes in Portland! Our favorite out proud queer woman of color comedian graces the Rose City with her ever-relatable wit this September. Tickets start at $39.00. Keller Auditorium, 22 SW Clay St.

Critical Mascara. A Post-Realness Drag Extravaganza” is back for its 4th year. Join hostess Pepper Pepper and DJ Zaq DesFleurs with EMCEE Kumari Suraj and Performer Isaiah Esquire hion, costume, reallness, vogue, waacking and dance on

Queer.

3

CALENDAR

FOURTH FRIDAYS

Twerk. DJs ILL Camino and II Trill. Keywords: bring your twerk. The city’s longest-running queer hip hop/R&B party—where artists, deejays, performers come to mix, mingle, and move on the dance floor.

We promise you you’ll move all night long. 10 p.m., Killingsworth Dynasty, 832 N Killingsworth. $5.

Club Kai-Kai. A crazy, cozy, packed dance party for queers at Saucebox. Club Kai-Kai (at it’s most basic) is an experimentation of nightlife, performance, and your gender preference. If you have questions, we don’t have answers; we just have a space for you to Kai-Kai. $5 cover, 21+ at Saucebox, 214 SW Broadway.

Blow Pony. Check out the classic PDX party’s new venue. Here’s your raunchiest, fruitiest, grittiest, freakiest most fabulous packed dance party. 9 p.m., Bossanova Ballroom, 722 E Burnside St. $7.

FOTH SATURDAYS

Judy on Duty. Lesbian hardcore. Judys, Judes, and cool ass freaks. Dance it out. DJ Troubled Youth. Organized by Ana Margarita and Megan Holmes. 10 p.m., High Mark Water Lounge, 6800 NE MLK.

LAST SUNDAYS

Sabbathhause Discotheque, gay night is back at Aalto lounge and it is bigger and more queer than ever before.

Featuring some of the best deejays and performers around and hosted by night hawk Chanticleer Tru. 8 p.m., Aalto Lounge, 3356 SE Belmont.

Portland AIDS Walk. One of the LGBTQ community’s core cultural events—second only to Pride—Portland’s AIDS Walk is a 2.4-mile walk through Portland to raise awareness and funds for the fight against HIV/AIDS. Join the festivities and show your support for HIV prevention, treatment and education. Registration is $10, with an inspiring program before the walk and a community celebration before and after. Arrive at 11 a.m. for entertainment and activities, hear the speakers beginning at 12:30 p.m., walk at 1 p.m. and head over to the optional bar crawl at 2 p.m. Register or get more info at http://aidswalkportland.org.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18

A Night of 100 Drag Queens. Come be part of drag history! The event raises funds for the Gay Softball World Series Portland 2017 while seeking a Guiness Book of World Records entry: the largest-ever assembly of drag queens performing a single number. Tickets are $25 online or $30 at the door. 5 p.m. at Darcelle XV Showplace, 208 NW 3rd Ave.

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 • 15

LOCAL

TRIED AND TRUE – PROUD QUEER BUSINESS SUCCESS

By Melanie Davis, PQ Monthly

A few years ago I had the pleasure of meeting author Marie Cartier. It was a chance meeting over a Thanksgiving dinner shared among strangers and friend. I had a pair of JetBlue tickets I purchased at a Cascade AIDS Project event, and they were about to expire.

So quickly looking at my calendar and surfing the web Long Beach California seemed to be the only place that worked within those limitations.

So yeah, Thanksgiving in Long Beach CA. Well, through a friend and a message to Pat Lamis we had an invite to dinner, and gratefully so. That where we meet some stellar individuals including Marie Cartier. I bring her up because over dinner she shared with me that she just published her book and it was on Amazon. – As a supporter of words, I pulled out my phone and purchased “Babe, You Are My Religion – Women, Gay Bars, and Theology Before Stonewall.”

I highly recommend you pick up a copy of “Babe, You Are My Religion – Women, Gay Bars, and Theology Before Stonewall,” by Marie Cartier. We know there is contestant conversation around our bars, the bar scene, and the evolution of them. Some feel the bars are dying, others feel the community/consumers are assimilating, while some bars thrive, and newer ones take a risk. In any case, regardless of your position on the industry, we decided to showcase a couple of our local Queer owned bars, while exploring a few other industries where Queer entrepreneurs prosper.

Crush Bar located at 144 SE Morrison Portland, Oregon is a gay owned and operated, restaurant/bar/event space.

Needless to say as reflected in its internationally recognized logo, Crush welcomes everyone. However, it is worth noting since day one Crush has always had natural gender bathrooms, and because it hosts a broad clientele of neighborhood friends, travelers, and community events alike it is safe to say that Crush has had a significant impact on people’s better understanding of Gender Neutral Bathrooms. From burlesque to live music, dance parties to meetups, THEIR all-inclusive space is open for many types of events. Open for lunch till 2 am Crush has become a staple in our community.

Scandals PDX located at 1125 SW Stark Street Portland, Oregon is at the heart of what was a traditional stronghold for Gay bars better known as the “Pink Triangle” section of downtown Portland on SW Stark Street & SW 12th Street.

Like any successful venue, club, or restaurant, Scandals has adapted over the years to fulfill the needs of a community that looks for a common ground to meet new friends and much more. Scandals is Portland’s Gay “Cheers,” and has existed as one of Portland’s most established gay bars since 1979. Known for taking over the Block every year during Pride, bringing some of the largest Queer performers to Portland and some of the biggest crowds, they are known for their heart. This is a business built on love, opening their doors to chance performers, happened upon artist, and huge annual fundraisers for local charities. Comfortable, relaxing, yet filled with the energy that keeps our community in a happy space.

Escape Bar & Gr ill located at 9004 Northeast Sandy Boulevard Portland, Oregon 97220 is newer on the scene. Still known to its local community as “the meetup spot” for any time of day since they are open 7 am to 12 am and till 2:30 am on Fridays and Saturdays. Where this unassuming neighborhood bar held steadfast to its claim as “mainstream,” new owners Jenn Davis and Armida Hanlon saw opportunities. First and foremost, the young entrepreneurs gave the venue a much needed remodel. While doing so, they enhanced the intersectionality of what they felt was missing in the Queer bar scene. Understanding their existing client base were already huge sports fans, gamers, and karaoke’ers they began

to invite sports fans from the Queer community on game day and what do you know #Success. Interestingly, through their remodel they were able to introduce Gender Neutral Bathrooms into their venue and to their established client base, and what do you know - #NoBIGdeal.

All of these places have outdoor seating and provide fresh water for Fido. So seriously, if you have to cruise the APP to socials, you can do so safely at your local Queer bar in the company of your fur. Heck, it might help in meeting someone you really want to meet ;) Speaking of fur babies, we have some Queer owned spaces to take our pets for care and love when they need a checkup or have a snafu.

Rose City Veterinary Hospital, located at 809 SE Powell Portland, Oregon is tried and true for this part of our family.

Rose City Veterinary Hospital is a well-established, full-service, small animal veterinary hospital providing comprehensive medical, surgical and dental care for dogs and cats. Their mission understands the special role your pet plays in your family and are dedicated to becoming your partner in your pet’s health care. Now here’s the deal: “For the past one hundred years, Rose City Veterinary Hospital has upheld its mission to provide the highest quality medical care available to its patients. Their staff remains committed to blending modern medicine with old-fashioned love for each pet we see, and we strive to offer not only sound advice but optimal veterinary care, thus allowing you the enjoyment of your companion for a maximum number of years.” They understand that their job is not only to treat your pet when they are ill but also to help you learn how to keep your best friend happy and healthy.

Alberta Veterinary Care, located at 1737 NE Alberta Suite 102 Portland, Oregon is a small animal veterinary facility located in the Alberta Arts district of Portland, Oregon. Dr. Cates and professional staff members are dedicated to providing loving, compassionate treatment for your family pet. They are proud to offer quality veterinary services in a warm, family friendly environment. “We strive to offer not only sound advice but also optimal veterinary care so you can enjoy more time with your special companion. At Alberta Veterinary Care, also provide the preventative care to keep your best friend happy and healthy for life.” Additionally, their website offers both an appointment and pet care portal for those of us on a mission to fulfill our vision.

Now that I brought up vision, you know what I am going to ask next, so, then let me get to it: How are your eyes doing?

How are you eye overall? I mean they are sexy as hell, but seriously, 16 pixels can start to strain our sight, and who better to land them on then the professional staff at Eyes! on Broadway located at 2300 NE Broadway Street in Portland, Oregon.

Offering the latest in eye fashion wear for the connoisseur of prescription and sunglass frames. For over 25 years the doctors and staff at Eyes On Broadway have worked very hard to provide every patient with a truly unique, comprehensive and pleasurable experience. Their friendly, knowledgeable professionalism and unique luxury eyewear continue to get noticed; they have received multiple awards, including the coveted ``Best Eyeglass Store in Portland.” I mean this is Portland and “even the cute girls wear glasses,” (said in a #Portlandia voice, with a gender natural tone).

So from our hallmark bars to pets the diversity of our business community is just as diverse as our flag. These are just a few Queer owned businesses who tirelessly support our communities and intersectionality’s, and we would like to say #ThankYou!

PQ Monthly is published the 3rd Thursday of every month. Contact us for advertising opportunities.

503.228.3139 • PQMONTHLY.COM 16 • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016

pqmonthly.com

FEATURES

STORM LARGE

dos and don’ts, rules and rebellion. We’re closer but we are still needing quanContinued from page 13 tification and qualification of everyone’s sexuality so we know where they stand. As I said before, it’s human nature to seek like minded other humans to connect with, safety in numbers, etc. It’s a shame that we tend to use an “other” or some assumed enemy in order to strengthen our own identities, but it really does seem that it’s just part of our dumb animal DNA. I’m great friends with a gay man who has a daughter with a lesbian woman. She was in a relationship with another woman, used my friend’s sperm and had a beautiful baby girl they’ve all been raising for 28 years. The two women broke up a few years back, one married a man and one BECAME a man. They are all still very much a family and the daughter is a beautiful badass. But that doesn’t matter to some people. Some so-called straight people would find that revolting, some lesbians would be appalled that one of the moms hooked up with a man…etc. Many gay publications insist on calling me bisexual instead of allowing me to decide who and what I am, how I decide to express my sexuality, because it’s better for them to make me more LIKE them and their readers in print. It’s bullshit and comes from the same limited thinking as a right wing bro calling us faggots. Qualifying and quantifying, categorizing sexuality, is like categorizing water molecules, sparks, licks of flame jumping from a house fire. Every fucking body is

different and THANK GOD. Sexually omnivorous is, simply, if it tastes good to me, I will eat it. Period.

PQ: Queers in particular frickin’ LOVE Storm Large. Why do you think that is?

Large: It’s one of the most flattering developments in my career…to get messages from all over the country that some drag queen dressed up like me and sang “8 Miles Wide”. Highest form of compliment, really. I think it’s because I look like an old fashioned pin-up chick but I am big and strong, like a man, and I have a loud filthy mouth. Dan Savage once said that I was the kind of woman a lifelong gold standard gay man would consider, and I think that’s the sweetest thing anyone has ever said. But I’d be scared to fuck Dan or his husband, Terry… I have a rule to never sleep with people who are that good looking. It’s too upsetting….and those two guys look like they were made in a lab. H-O-T. PQ: Lastly PQ readers I’m sure are dying to know are you single and any particular preferences?

Large: I am not single. I am monogamous with a very masculine, yet soft-spoken man. I’ve never had a monogamous relationship with a woman, which is a bummer. But I am not great relationship material for anyone, really, considering my being on the road 200 to 250 days a year. If I could, though…the kind of women I have always been most attracted to are artists, creative types and athletes ….not masculine, per se, but strong, leaders, confident, badass, toppy….( and smarter than me).

The Muttley Crew Giving professionals a new leash on life!

• Grooming • Doggie daycare • Premium USA made products • Top rated pet foods including Orijen, Acana, Taste of the Wild, Honest Kitchen Go! Now! and Raw foods. *Best in the Biz 2009, 2010, 2011 by Spot Magazine

Visit us!

806 NW Murray Portland, OR 97229 Mon-Fri 6:45am - 6:30pm Sat 8am - 4pm

Call us:

503-626-8212

THEMUTTLEYCREW.COM pqmonthly.com

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 • 17

FEATURE

THE DAVID BEHIND THINK TANK $TUDIO$

By Melanie Davis, PQ Monthly

It all started with cousin Mike, and after spending time with Multi-Media Artist David Lynch at his studio, I think all success stories should begin with a cousin named Mike (or the likes), who play a role just by being present. David Lynch has been stirred by Pop Culture and many of the greats who have defined it such as Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and illustrators like Ed Roth. However, inspiration truly struck when David’s family moved to Sacramento.

One day cousin Mike came home with a skateboard he made in shop class. It was one of many moments in David’s life that has led him to his successful career as an artist. His secret is keeping your eyes open to the magic that people are creating all around you, you realize that “creation is infinite.” So at a young age, he set his mind to warp drive and became the kid that rebuild everything from lawnmowers, motorcycles, VW’s (his favorite BTW); and along the way recreated many of these same things.

Ride the Pine Discovering the flow of motion in the mid 80’s at the helm of the ‘Skater Revolution,’ David Lynch, a teen at the time found himself with a tight circle of skaters friends like Dave Bergthold, who launched Blockhead Skateboards.

Young risk takers the company was founded with about 3 thousand dollars that Dave saved up from being a pizza delivery guy and some school money from mom and dad.

Against the advice of almost everyone, Dave spent a good chunk of the money on a full page Thrasher ad instead of settling on a more sensible quarter page. “Nobody takes

the companies seriously who don’t do a full page,” Dave said. “The gamble paid off and during that time many friendships were made, good times were had, careers were launched” – Lynch recounts after showing me a Keith Haring board gifted to him by Dave and a hand written thank you note. Skater buds through and through. Lynch contributing to its early growth as an artist, and Professional Skater.

Take it with Me A move brought his family back up the I-5 North from Sacramento in the nineties. David rounded out his youth by doing the all-American kid things like football, soccer, 4H, and basketball. In the back of his mind, he knew he was Gay, it just seemed the opportunity to “come out” never presented itself in his fast-paced quest to harvest all the knowledge the world has to offer an artist. I later learned Lynch dropped basketball due to bullying. Not because Lynch was being bullied, rather a team member was bullying another and David “whipped the bullies’ ass,” then he dropped out of basketball and took pottery. Now, finding himself in Battleground, Washington USA as a ‘Skater Punk,’ schoolyard vigilantly, and hopeless romantic in the 90’s it at that point in time he came out.

Lynch had been terrified come out, taught by his mother who had “excommunicated” her brother Steve who had come out earlier in their lives. David was only nine when his mom said they could no longer see their uncle, Steve.

David recalls with great anxiety the fears that he too would be excommunicated. However, fate forced his hand when a married man took advantage of David and entangled him DAVID LYNCH page 20

FEATURE

How much wood would a woodchuck chuck? salvageworkspdx.com 2024 N. Argyle Street, Portland, OR 97217 • 503-899-0052

-Since 2005-

Full-serviced 7-hour venue from $1,850 Or

Inclusive Packages

With catering*, photographer* and DJ* from $5,900

AINSWORTHHOUSE.NET Check our website and call for a tour

503 - 656 -1894

Kevin@AinsworthHouse.net (*from our preferred selection of vendors, all family-friendly)

AINSWORTH HOUSE & GARDENS Gay owned and operated

Multi-year award winner from The Knot and Wedding Wire 18 • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016

pqmonthly.com

LOCAL

FASHION

PORTLAND AREA BUSINESS ASSOCIATION IN 2016

By Paul Finlay

Portland Area Business Association (PABA) began supporting the business development needs of the LGBTQ communit y in 1992. PA BA celebrates its place in the community as the LGBTQ Cha mber of Commerce w it h a ppr oximately 200 members representing businesses ow ned or operated by a member, ally or supporter of the LGBTQ community.

PABA provides the opportunity for member businesses to showcase their goods and services to supportive consumers. Members have the opportunity to become active in the LGBTQ business community through networking opportunities and business events such as PABA After Hours, monthly luncheon series, and weekly BizBuilders small group discussions.

A significant percentage of members are allies and membership extends across the river into the Vancouver area.

In Oregon, 75% of businesses have 9 or fewer employees making the state grow through small business development. With Communication analysis indicates that the buying power of the LGBTQ community nationwide is $830 billion. Portland, along with Fort Lauderdale, is one of the fastest growing LGBTQ populations in same-sex households per capita. In 2013 Portland had the nation’s second biggest per capita growth in unmarried gay and lesbian couple households, beating out nearby Seattle and San Francisco.

PABA supports business development by building community and inclusion. Some associations simply champion the advancement of industry. PABA is focused on community engagement, inclusion and offers a

pqmonthly.com

great avenue for business professionals to share best practices, learn about new events, network, and have a dialogue about the Portland business community through a lens of progressive socio-economic change.

Member Jon Gooley says, “I go to PABA for three main reasons: to network, to get educated through the morning workshops [BizBuilders], and to become aware of other events and initiatives going on around the city.”

“LGBTQ buying power is diverse in ethnicity and socio-economic status, and we are an incredibly loyal constituency,” said Justin Nelson, National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) Co-founder and President. PABA understands not only the influence of the LGBTQ dollar, but the economics of inclusivity. To that end, the PABA board is reaching out to other chambers in the Metro area such as Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce, Metropolitan Hispanic Chamber, North Clackamas and Beaverton Chambers to build relationships beyond reciprocity.

Work is underway to create a strong bond with the federal Small Business Administration (SBA). In early March PABA co-sponsored a half-day business seminar with SBA and NGLCC attended by 55 participants.

PABA is a welcoming organization that the board intends to build into a valuable community asset, integrated into the business health and development of the greater Portland area. PABA leverages and promotes a positive business climate, encouraging and facilitating productive connections among members and non-members alike. Lived equality grows and thrives through business success, economic prosperity and business growth.

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 • 19

FEATURE

DAVID LYNCH Continued from page 18

in what was often a very scary affair. The married man stalked him at his workplace, and exploiting his role as a sales person.

Because the man had significant ties with the company when David complained he was basically told ‘what’s wrong with hanging out with a client after hours?’ Fearful and powerless because he was not out, he called the only person he knew. Uncle Steve Lynch. A Principal at the time, and still unwelcomed by David’s mom, Uncle Steve had always made sure that his assistant knew if David called to get him ASAP regardless of the situation.

“Uncle, I need help…”

The day the call came Steve Lynch’s Assistant ran over and said your nephew is on the phone. Dropping everything, Uncle Steve got to the phone - “what do you need?”

David on the other end crying, “Uncle, I need help…I think I am Gay?” Uncle Steve make sure David was in a safe space, then got to him as soon as possible armed with none other than Attorney Denise Stern to deal with the married man stalking David.

When asked how David dealt with the experience, Lynch explained, he cried. “I am just going to cry.” The healing began when his uncle told him “as a Gay man, the first thing you are going to do is respect yourself!”

Cutting, stretching, screening, woodworking, rebuilding, recreating Since he has been out David Lynch has exploded as an artist, leaving his mark not only in the skater world up, but also up and down the I-5 corridor. Later he tested his abilities as an artist and entrepreneur with his first clothing line called ‘Flat Busted,’ and 20 • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016

then, his now famous ‘ThInK tAnK $tUdIo$,’ where he produces his more commercial items like his modern ‘whiskey lamps’ and ‘robots.’ David has worked with and loves the Portland Queer Art scene where he is a fan of many such as Butch Williams, Pablito, David Prouty, Glenn L Clevenger, and Bret R Palazzo to name a few. David’s work has been described as “Intoxicating blend of Canvas, Dimensional and illuminated creations that are a visually challenging and eye-popping experience.”

Finding his muse in his partner of 6 years Scott Ringsage an artist himself, and so far one of the few privy to David’s most intimate works dating back to his early childhood in the late 70’s. David and Scott’s home has become a lumberjack speakeasy art haven of sorts for the creatively inspired. We encourage you to attend the PQ Monthly Press Party on September 15, 2016, from 5 to 7ish at Salvage Works located at 2024 N Argyle St, Portland, OR 97217.

David Lynch will be their featured artist and tempt PQ’ers with live music, local food carts, and of course the artist.

When asked what advice he would give, David Lynch says “Dream big!” “Risk is everything and happening all around us.

For example, you Melanie as a Queer Latina Publisher look at the risk in that, now look at the magic. It’s around us, so dream big, take the risk and share your limitless potential. As someone who is always learning that is what I have to say.” David Lynch, Multi-Media Artist, and owner of ThInK tAnK $tUdIo$.

David Lynch will the featured artist at the PQ Monthly Press Party on September 15, 2016, from 5 to 7ish at Salvage Works located at 2024 N Argyle St, Portland, OR 97217. pqmonthly.com

VOICES

FEATURE

DON’T TOUCH MY HAIR “So, I’m woke…now what?”

By Samantha L. Taylor, PQ Monthly

WOKE. Urban Dictionary (yea we’re going there), defines ‘woke’ as “Being aware.

Knowing what’s going on in the community. Relating to racism and social injustice.”

Emphasis mine.

Living amongst the current political climate got us having all kinds of public conversations about (barely) surviving under white supremacy, capitalism, and trans/ misogyny as QTPOCs in the U.S. On top of it all, it’s an election year.

We’re at this remarkable moment in living history where we get to watch folks come into their respective ‘woke-ness’ in real time; mostly through the ubiquitous availability of social media.

But, like, what do you do when you find out the world you live in is a lie? What do you do when you find out just who, exactly, the Man Behind the Curtain is? I mean, even Neo had Morpheus.

It seems like a lot of us are making hella room for folks to work out just how they benefit from, contribute to, and are maligned by the systemic issues plaguing our society. There’s even free workshops and events you can attend to discuss it (see: Race Talks, The School of African Roots).

Along with many other people, I wonder about the long-term efficacy of these discussions if we don’t also create space to work through our emotional responses?

Let me be clear, I don’t claim to have all the answers. In fact, the more I inquire on the topic the more questions I have. What I do know, is that we need to make room and hold space for QT/ POCs who are going through the complexity of discovering and unlearning oppressive behaviors.

QTPOCs have many receipts on the effects of living with multiple oppressions.

Eventually, we’re gonna have to acknowledge the fact that we could be doing a better job of checking for each other in large and small ways. These things can be as simple as reminding each other to hydrate and moisturize; providing childcare support so Mama can attend the rally, and making space for rage. Note: this is not a comprehensive list, just some ideas. Feel free to make your own list and share it with your loves. Ask the homies what they need and then come through on it.

Allow yourself to be the Morpheus to someone else’s Neo. Learn to give and receive loving kindness from your community. Show the f*ck up – for others and for yourself. I’m not saying it’s gonna be easy.

But we gotta do better, be better.

The path to freedom and liberation has proved to be a long one. But it doesn’t have to lack compassion and care. Ya dig?

Samantha L. Taylor is a Black queerdo who’s just trying to survive and thrive in the Pacific Northwest.

SEPTEMBER PQ PRESS PARTY!

Hosted by salvageworkspdx at Salvage Works, featuring art by David Lynch of Think Tank Studio. *Beer provided by Backwoods Brewing *Live music by Cedar Teeth *Food carts • September 15th 2016, 5P.M.-7 P.M. : SALVAGE WORKS ( 2024 N Argyle St, Portland, OR 97217 ) pqmonthly.com

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 • 21

FEATURE

FEATURE

DEAR MOM, I NEED YOU

PHOTO: BLOGGER “ALICE EVERGREEN”

By Alice Evergreen, We’Ced Youth Media / New America Media, First Person

MERCED, Calif.--Parents should be open-minded and accepting, especially when it comes to their children, but I know this is not always the case.

At least it hasn’t been for me.

I grew up with a single mother, and ever since I was a child, we were never close because I was different.

Although I am only 18-years old, I have had a very difficult journey. Moms, by society’s standards, are supposed to be caring and accepting figures, but I have not had the luxury of having that in my life.

My Mom was never home because she worked all day, so my oldest sister became a substitute mother and took care of me.

She, along with my other sister, basically raised me. They allowed and encouraged me to become the person I am today. While I am appreciative of what they’ve done for me, I wish my mother would have treated me the same way.

Though she showed me affection, I never felt like my Mom’s love was authentic. She was always distant and disapproving.

When I was a child, I remember having one friend. He was a courageous little boy who played “bride and groom” with me. Of course, I would always play the bride or any female role in every game we played. My Mom thought it was weird and discouraged me from acting feminine, but I didn’t care.

I would put shirts on my head and pretend I had long beautiful hair. If I saw a woman on television, I would try and imitate her as much as I could. I always felt I was a girl. It saddens me my Mom has never accepted this.

I believe no child should grow up feeling unwanted, unsupported or rejected by a parent. I do not want any person to go through what I have endured in my lifetime.

I’ve known my entire life that I am different, and I’ve accepted it, but knowing my Mom does not has really hurt me.

When I came out to her, she made me 22 • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016

doubt myself. She asked me what I saw in the mirror. I replied that I saw myself, but she questioned me once again, this time asking me about my gender. I was so devastated, and instead of fighting for myself, I said, “I see a guy.” She told me I was correct and to never forget I am a “male.”

I thought coming out would be a huge relief and that all my insecurities would go away, but once again, that was not the case.

Months later, I came across a young trans woman on the internet. Her name was John Luu. Unashamed of who she was, she would go out in public dressed fiercely, embracing her femininity. I thought it was the coolest thing I had ever seen. I wanted to do the same, but because of my Mom, I was afraid.

After a period of following her, Luu uploaded a YouTube video titled, “I am transgender,” explaining what it meant to be a “transgender woman.” I knew she was describing me. I later spent hours researching, trying to figure out if I too was transgender.

Turns out I am. And I am proud to embrace this identity.

I want to send a message to parents of transgender people all around the world: We, your children, already have a difficult time fitting in and coming to terms with the fact that we are considered different.

It is your duty to support us in this time of need and uncertainty.

It is your responsibility to love us for who were are. It is your job to remind us that you care and that no matter how we identify, you will stand by our side.

Dear Mom, I need your love and your support. I need you to accept me as another daughter and not the son you have always wanted.

Alice Evergreen, 18, is the blog name of a recent Golden Valley High School graduates and a veteran youth reporter with We’Ced, one of five New American Media youth-news hubs in California. She loves fashion and makeup and writing about the LGBT community. She hopes to be a psychologist one day to help people in need. pqmonthly.com

FASHION

TURN A LOOK: VIRGO

“GET IN TOUCH WITH YOUR PERSONAL STYLE BY EDITING DOWN YOUR CLOSET TO THE ABSOLUTE ESSENTIALS.”

By Sally Mulligan, PQ Monthly

Welcome to the eighth installment of Turn a Look: Horoscopes! Every month I will be forecasting fashions for the sign that month falls on. Where are my VIRGOS at? Just kidding, you’re at the front of the line-- Actually, you are the line because you’re an hour early and no one has shown up yet. Y’all are often seen as uptight and oppressive, known for throwing shade by casting a light on yours and other’s missteps. I can’t deny that some of my favorite Virgo traits are chewed up and spit back out into patriarchy. Virgos are not ice cold nags, they are charming and private with a keen eye for detail. Just because they notice everything does not mean they are judging! The last quarter of this year is ushering in some serious Virgos vibes (and those of us with Virgo elsewhere in our chart.) It starts with a solar eclipse on the new moon in Virgo September 1st, ushering in a season full of bringing to light that which lingers in our subconscious. There’s going to be a lot of tough love in the air, and no one dishes it out quite like these mercurial maidens. This is the time to truly embrace all things Virgo to stir up some magic. Here are my styling tips to lean into some of the more polarizing traits of Virgo.

CALLING IN: PRISSY/MODEST

Since this Virgo season in particular is about a turn inward, I think it’s important to talk about the outward expression of this mindset. This fall I see you out-Virgoing yourself in oversized, overly modest shapes, lots of practical earth tones, well-fitting pieces. Virgos rule the belly, so go easy on yourself with loose-fitting garments that flow to keep your body in harmony. Think of it as your cocoon to keep you safe through a harsh winter. Don’t get me wrong, Virgo has a real sexy side, they just have a mystical and secretive air about them because they prefer not to expose their freaky side to just anybody. It’s no coincidence that the only sign represented by a femme/female is also the most berated and misinterpreted sign in our patriarchal society. But did you know that before all that Masc4Masc junk, Virgos were lauded sex workers and spiritual healers? As such, they were some of the only people allowed to live outside the pqmonthly.com

norm as witches and spinsters. Just let that thought guide you through this Mercury in Retrograde, which is in Virgo this time ‘round.

CALLING IN: PERFECTIONIST/METICULOUS

We all know that Virgos prefer- nay, demand- order. Right now, it’s time for you to encompass this trait whole-heartedly so that you will be prepared as you can be for all this astrological action. Line up your prints, get match-matchy and monochromatic. Prepare for each day with a clean and pressed outfit because you have no time to suffer fools.

Virgos represent taking apart, categorizing, harmony, and the fall harvest. Hold tight to these ideals with geometric prints and shapes, but plant them firmly in the earth with colors found in nature. Don’t mince words or let others cross your boundaries, but hold tightly to your compassion.

CALLING IN: OVERCRITICAL/LOGICAL

Whoever said “the devil is in the details” was probably talking about our fair Virgos.

Since Virgo is a mutable earth sign, they are an intelligent and very practical lot. This marks Autumn as the best time for you to clean house. Shed all that is not serving you, and that means your wardrobe as well. Get in touch with your personal style by editing down your closet to the absolute essentials. Enjoy reconnecting with yourself through self expression, pairing old accessories in new ways to hone in on your look. We know you won’t miss a thing, sweet Virgo.

VIRGO PLAYLIST:

“Back Off,” Dej Loaf; “No Scrubs,” TLC; “Ain’t Got No/I Got Life,” Nina Simone; “Damn You (American Dream),” Lana Del Rey; “This Must Be the Place,” Talking Heads. **You probably already know this but just in case: I am not a professional astrologer and these are just my fun suggestions. Do what you want and let me know how it goes!** AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 • 23

VOICES

THE SECRET LIFE OF SUMMER SEASONS How Scandals Became my Home Away From Home

A few years ago if anyone had asked me to step inside Scandals PDX, I would’ve asked them if they were nuts. It’s not necessarily because there was anything wrong with the place, but I most certainly didn’t identify with the clientele as they were generally older gentlemen who preferred a mellow atmosphere and I liked to be surrounded by people and love dancing, which is why I almost always consider CC Slaughters my Home.

Fast forward to now and Scandals has gone through huge renovations; the space is gorgeous, and I’m now older and prefer different things. So here I find myself frequenting the place and chatting with the bartenders who are now my friends and I’m falling in love with it. Along comes Svetlana who tells me they are looking for a host to watch RuPaul’s Drag Race Viewing Party and she asks me to audition. Being my ever so entrepreneurial self, I decided to give this hosting gig a shot. I got the notification from bartender Perry, and I decide to put all my effort into landing this gig.

I rehearse my song endlessly and focus on my monologue and jokes, after all I’ve hosted at Darcelle’s so I should be able to do this right? I invite all my friends and family to come watch me and here I am more nervous than ever! Svetlana announces me on stage for my number and I just go into automatic mode, for whatever reason, Summer can be super loud and boisterous, but in reality Brent is very very shy. I finish the number to a huge round of applause, and somehow I knew I’d beat the 6-7 other girls who were competing.

Reality then sinks in, what had I just signed myself up for, what was this experience gonna look like for me and what if nobody showed up? I set to work with Perry immediately trying to plan out what the look of the season and show was gonna be, but nothing could prepare us for the success that the show was gonna bring both of us. Not only did people come, but they came in flocks. There were all these people I had never even met before and here I was trying to navigate my way through a packed room full of strangers that I’d never even seen before.

I found myself creatively inspired like I’d never been before. I wanted to give these people looks similar to what the girls on the show were doing and perform numbers way outside of my box. The best part of the experience was we got to give girls who often weren’t asked a chance to perform in our pre-show. We even got to raise funds for AIDS Walk Portland during some of the numbers. It finally gave my friends and me something fun to do on Monday Nights.

Eventually to bring even more numbers in we invited Pagan Holliday to be a part of the Monday night craziness. She brought a new and fresh energy that was pre-

viously unmatched before. Her creativity and puppetry were just what the party needed to become even bigger.

We became the dynamic Monday night Duo, frequently challenging each other to lip syncs and costumes outside of our box. You just never knew what you were going to get on Monday nights. We just liked to keep people guessing.

During this time Scandals allowed my Best Friend Andrew Shayde and me to host Naked Trivia. A fundraiser for AIDS Walk Portland which allowed him and me to host one of the funniest fundraisers I’ve ever done before. Not only did they donate the space, but they also donated funds from the signature cocktails helping us raise thousands of dollars every year to support the key programs of Cascade AIDS Project.

Scandals had become the place where I spent most of my time. I was there Monday nights for Drag Race, Tuesday nights for Karaoke, Thursday for Happy Hours and Sunday for Naked Trivia. It was now filled with young and old professionals, offering the best cocktails and the staff had become my family.

So here I arrive at this year busier than ever and Perry asks me once again to be the Monday night host. I wasn’t really sure that my schedule would allow it, but I decided to give it one more shot. If we could make it a success I was going to stay, if not, I’d bow out and pass the baton onto somebody else. Opening night came and boy were we in for a surprise. The place was packed, and thankfully Matty May and Monroe were able to stay late and help us out because Nick and Perry were slinging all kinds of drinks.

Our slew of special guests like Flawless Shade, Keisha Monet Volt, Roxy Taylor, Kimber Shade and Miss Innana helped turn Monday’s into the party place. We put on a show every Monday and every Monday we turned it out!

Somehow we’d figured out a way to make it all work, and I can’t wait to turn it out Thursdays for Drag Race All Stars with these girls.

If you haven’t been into Scandals lately, you really should go. They have specials every day, theme nights, and you won’t get a stiffer drink in the city. The upgrades are gorgeous, and the staff has always been amazingly friendly.

I’ve found my new chill spot and I love it. I’m thankful to my Scandals family, but mostly for the Owner David, Manager Monroe and Matty and Perry. You guys have given me a new place to call home, and for that I’m forever grateful.

To make a donation to AIDS Walk Portland Visit www. aidswalkportland.org/summerseasons To find out the happenings of Scandals visit www.scandalspdx.com

SEPTEMBER PQ PRESS PARTY! Hosted by salvageworkspdx at Salvage Works, featuring art by David Lynch of Think Tank Studio. *Beer provided by Backwoods Brewing *Live music by Cedar Teeth *Food carts

• September 15th 2016, 5P.M.-7 P.M. : SALVAGE WORKS ( 2024 N Argyle St, Portland, OR 97217 ) 24 • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016

pqmonthly.com

EMBODY

VOICES

Always have supported LGBT rights, Always will.

FEATURE

Self Care, Community Share

By Sossity Chiricuzio, PQ Monthly

We are fed a loaded bunch of nonsense about our bodies. What they should look like, who they should attract, what is proper to do with them, whether clothed or naked or eating or sleeping or fucking or dying.

We are taught we are not the authority about our bodies, that doctors and priests and parents and even God has a better idea about what we need, and what we are capable of. We are taught that we should fix our size, and our smell, and our self-image. We are taught that the type and shape of fabrics we drape over us are inherently connected to our value and our beauty and our gender. We are taught to not know ourselves other than as something opposite to something else.

Sometimes, some of us try and break free of this conditioning. A small group, or a culture, or even a whole generation. My first five years were spent in the organic glow of flower children actively unlearning as much as they could. My body was naked or clothed based on weather and costuming and adventures. My body was fed when it was hungry, cuddled when it was seeking contact, and respected at all times. My body was just a part of me, and we had an easy, loving, joyful relationship.

It took only one year of public school to subvert all of that. One year of judging and sideways glances to teach me to be ashamed of being a mammal, of being clad in second hand clothing, of being in love with sensations.

I tried to catch up on the rules as fast as I could, certain I was always getting it wrong. I learned to expect negative attention and feedback. I sucked in my stomach and rounded my shoulders and minimized my breasts. I learned to dislike my hair, my arms, my chin, my neck, my teeth, my legs, my ass, my belly, my voice and my back. I learned to hide and disguise. Struggling to pass as socially redeemable became a state of being in my body.

Meanwhile, my body became a danger to me, way too soon to understand the why, though I learned fast enough the who and how. It took only one not-quite-stranger invasion to realize that others were going to want to force their way inside my body, and I was going to have to fight to keep them out. It took much longer to realize I would eventually have to fight to let some folks in, even though I wanted to. Fighting had become a state of being in my body.

In fact, the thing that became hardest was actually being in my body. Staying engaged and present, all the way up to the skin.

In the midst of the learning and unlearning, the unwinding of tangles and trauma, was the increasing pain of my body. Arthri-

tis struck hard, not long after 18, for reasons I am currently trying to decipher. At first it seemed it might be one last viral parting gift from the last cis-man I ever dated, lodged in my joints for 20+ years and festering like his jack Mormon desire for my forbidden body. Now it seems instead that my own antibodies are lost in the “fight” response, even though their target is actually also me. Thyroid trapped in emergency mode, joints made of spikes.

Fighting has become a state of illness for my body, even as I have to continually fight for the needs of my body. Advocacy is, after all, another way to struggle.

I continue to find ways to hold fast to the joys of flesh and senses; to be who I actually am; to ask for what I need. I have found many rituals to anchor myself inside this body. I have shaped and shorn and inked and carved and pierced and consecrated it with blood. I have found a path that wends between slinky fabrics and work worn boots; between gentle voice and sharp teeth; between the mines laid down by both passing anonymous judgments and intimate deliberate shaming.

I find it again, with every new lover, with every source of chronic pain, with every day spent in the public eye.

I am able to find much of this because of the way our queer community shares resources and skills. The way we lift each other up and create an altar of ourselves, seeking truths, polishing them against each other until we all see us shine. The way we make a life’s work out of helping and modeling and listening and seeking. The way we cradle and adorn and heal one another.

I want to take a moment and thank some of the many queer businesses, in Portland and beyond, that have used the labor and skills of their bodies to help support the identity and healing in mine, and to share them with you.

Remember: your body, your rituals, your way. And also: your money/labor is a spell as well, cast it wisely.

Asha Wellness, Aster Wolfe, LMT, As You Like It, Big Mama’s Hair Design, Blue Door Farm, BodyQuirks, Brazen Bee Beauty, Common Ground, Cotton Cloud, Cypress Tattoo, Empower Oil, Fat Fancy, Fire Horse Acupuncture, Galactic Rabbit Horoscopes, Good Margot, Hairparty, In Other Words, J Tyler Huber Photography, JD’s Shoe Repair, Kinky Craft, Levy Chiropractic, Little Shop Of Hairs, New Rose Tattoo, Protean Arts, Q Center, Re/Dress, Ritual Arts, Ritual Ink, She Bop, Size Queen Clothing, Star Magic Take Root, The Equi Institute, The Vital Compass, Zócalo Wellness, and of course the many odd job folks, home grown medicine makers, and mutual advisors that I can’t properly name or mention here.

End note: If you have questions or topics you’d like me to cover, products you’d like me to review, people you’d like to hear from, or resources to share, please get in touch! sossity@pqmonthly.com

pqmonthly.com

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 • 25

NATIONAL

26 • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016

pqmonthly.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY FEATURE

PQ Monthly is published the 3rd Thursday of every month. Please contact us for advertising opportunities at 503.228.3139

INSURANCE

ATTORNEYS

INSURANCE

MORTGAGE

www.pqmonthly.com

PSYCHIC

REAL ESTATE

GAY SKATE WITH PQ Oaks Park Roller Skating Rink

Always the 3rd Monday of every month from 7-9pm THEME FOR SEPTEMBER IS: DRAG QUEEN/DRAG QUEEN THEME FOR OCTOBER IS: HALLOWEEN FREE FOR ALL! Follow us on Facebook for details

ADMISSION $7.00 Sponsors:

PQMONTHLY.COM IMAGE BY: EVELYNGIGGLES

pqmonthly.com

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016 • 27

28 • AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2016

pqmonthly.com