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PQMONTHLY.COM Vol. 2 No. 11 Nov.-Dec 2013

DANA GOLDBERG DISHES TO PQ: “IT TOOK A WHILE FOR THE LADY PARTS TO RECOVER” COVER OREGON: PLENTY OF QUESTIONS, GLITCHES, AND REASON FOR OPTIMISM MICHELE MANNIX EMPOWERS THE HOMELESS TO RUN WITH ONE STEP CLOSER A DAY TO REMEMBER AND ACT UP: WORLD AIDS DAY

Bright

PHOTO BY TIM SUGDEN

be

Merry and

2 • November-December 2013

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PQ TEAM

IT CAME UPON A MIDNIGHT QUEER

Melanie Davis

Owner/Publisher melanie@pqmonthly.com

Gabriela Kandziora

Director of Business Development

gabriela@pqmonthly.com

chris alvarez

Art Director chris@pqmonthly.com

Pablo Cáceres

Special Projects pablo@pqmonthly.com

editorial TEAM daniel borgen

Editor & Founding Staff Writer daniel@pqmonthly.com

nick mattos

Founding Staff Writer & Social Media Manager nick@pqmonthly.com

SALES TEAM

From left to right: Melanie Davis (and what her inner child still looks like), (front row) great grandfather Julian Padilla, great grandmother Susana Padilla, (Back row right to left) grandmother Clara Padilla Andrews, father James C. Davis, and mother Mary Clara Davis

larry lewis

Sales Representative larry@pqmonthly.com

lynda Wilkinson

Winter forces us into our homes, inviting us to pore over all the keepsakes and mementos we keep in them. We amble through our house, looking at our shelves with new eyes, perusing knickknacks, photos, memories and moments we wanted to keep forever. The one that’s often hardest for me to see with new eyes are pictures of my family, be they the kind that come by choice or the one we’re born into. For me, looking at all the faces frozen behind the frame’s glass makes the past present — and sometimes, the past stings when it returns.

This time of year draws a reflection of when my father had me memorize Edgar Allen Poe’s “The Raven” when I was five. Soon after, I became quite familiar with Poe’s body of work and his literary illustration of life. Outside my windows, the air gets colder, frost begins to appear. Inside, even though wood burns in the fireplace, I feel a chill as the past comes back — and I think of what the burning embers represent, each of the people I’ve loved and lost and what they’ve left in my heart. Then, those dying embers start a fire.

In my time as publisher of PQ, I have been amazed and humbled by the great fire we’re building together as a community. We are at the forefront of changing society, waging great civil rights battles propelled and fueled by generation upon generation who’ve come before us — people who’ve left embers on each of our hearts. If only they could see what they sparked in our souls and in our culture!

As we move into this season, I invite you to stay cold, to look at where you came from and who got you there. Embrace your connection to the past and the interconnectedness of our present moment. The raven of winter is coming, tapping his claw on our windows, reminding us of the friends who flew before, that on the morrow more will leave us, just as our hopes have flown before. Please: stay inside, with the cold sting of the past and the great heat of the fire we’re building together, because this is where real change happens. Dare to dream what no mortal dared to dream before. I — and my entire PQ team — hope this holiday transforms you, that you are given opportunities to bless one another in this beautiful community and moment we call home.

--Melanie Davis

A SMATTERING OF WHAT YOU’LL FIND INSIDE:

Sales Representative lynda@pqmonthly.com

What’s new in Rip City? Marriage Equality, according to the Portland Trailblazers............................................... page 7

Jonathan Reitan

Homeless running clubs? Not just an idea, a reality, thanks to Michele Mannix................................................... page 8

Sales Representative jonathan@pqmonthly.com

TransActive steps in to fill the gaps in care and support for trans children............................................................ page 12

National Advertising

Don’t say there’s nothing to do. We have your month all planned out for you. Get Out!..................................... page 19

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

Cover Oregon’s glitchy rollout and what local nonprofits are doing to help. Are you covered?....................... page 22

photographers

World AIDS Day. Past, present, and future collide, and the result is a variety of compelling local happenings.......... page 26

jules garza

Staff Photographer jules@pqmonthly.com

Dana Goldberg invades Bridgetown, and tells Belinda Carroll all her secrets........................................................ page 29 Guest Opinion: Marco Davis and Astoria want you................................................................................................... page 33

Oscar Foster

Staff Photographer oscar@pqmonthly.com

media

Columns: The Lady Chronicles, Everything is Connected, I.D. Check, The Home Front, Latebian Life, Purple Elbows, Cultivating Life, Whiskey & Sympathy. Plus Astroscopes, Queer Aperture, and More!

Sammi Rivera

Director of Video Productions

ON THE COVER: Our cover embraces a Norman Rockwell-esque

503.228.3139 proudqueer.com

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

pqmonthly.com

PHOTO BY TIM SUGDEN

setting with Portland’s Dapper Boys Club (DBC) and two local beauties, Diane Nunez, a community activist, and Madame DuMoore, bartender at the Rainbow Room. Gus Wolter, CFO of Cotton Cloud Futon and Shaley Howard, owner of Scratch-n-Sniff, join in the festivities.

The Core Four of the Dapper Boys Club are Joe LeBlanc, Development and Communications Coordinator for Basic Rights Oregon and founder of BUTCH Voices; Renée LaChance, serial entrepreneur and beloved founder of the original Just Out; Collin McFadyen, co-owner and executive chef of Byways Café; and Laird Young, bartender at Escape Bar and Grill.

The holiday spirit is embraced while toasting good times, noshing on Hungry Hero Dessert Company pumpkin and apple pies, and enjoying the queer vibe at Scandal’s, in downtown Portland. The Dapper Boys Club and friends are dressed in exquisite ensembles from Duchess Clothiers, stores located in Portland and San Francisco.

The DBC is a light-hearted, all-inclusive group of masculine-of-center friends committed to the enjoyment of dapper fashion. Other dappers and dapper admirers are welcome to join in the fun. The only requirement is to dress for your own pleasure, treat others with respect and be happy. To join the Dapper Boys Club, go to http://www.Facebook.com/groups/ DapperBoysClubPDX/ (Note: only non-alcoholic beverages were consumed in this shoot.)

November-December 2013 • 3

PQ PRESS PARTY! Get PQ Monthly hot off the presses the third Thursday of every month at our PQ Press Parties!

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NEWS BRIEFS

The marriage equality movement in Oregon charges on with some welcome companions; on Halloween night, three local queers were attacked while in drag; Merkley continues to champion LGBT rights.

LOCAL Oregon may be the last west coast state between Washington and California to allow same-sex couples to marry, but for now Oregon will legally recognize same-sex couples who have married out of state. A memo was sent to state officials on Wednesday, October 16th when Chief Operating Officer Michael Jordan (not to be confused with the former NBA star) declared that the state must now recognize all “legal, same sex marriages performed in other states and countries.” This action corresponds with the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to nullify aspects of the Defense of Marriage Act. There’s no exact number for how many married same-sex couples reside in Oregon, but their cheers echo from Mt. Hood to Mt. Rainer.

In a suit filed in the Eugene U.S. District Court on Tuesday, October 15th by Portland attorneys Lake Perriguey and Lea Ann Easton, the judge was asked to overturn 2004’s Measure 36. The couple at the forefront, Deanna Geiger and Janine Nelson, argues their right to be legally married—after all, it’s been 31 years of togetherness, and that’s special regardless of sexuality. Measure 36 is an anti-gay amendment that should be abolished completely from our system. A separate $12 million campaign has been underway at the hands of Oregon United for Marriage.

In a press release on October 15th, adidas announced its endorsement to put marriage equality on the Oregon ballot for 2014. Adidas America’s Vice President Paul Ehrlich stated: “We are proud to support Oregon United for Marriage in its campaign to extend the freedom to marry to loving, committed couples, no matter their gender.” As one of the largest Oregon-based corporations, this backing solidifies the dedication of the state’s desire to progressively move forward, one step at a time—pun intended.

On Halloween night, Dustin Miller, Curtis Hughes and Joey Malone, who were dressed up in drag, were attacked in Portland by five perpetrators. The attackers began shouting homophobic slurs and became physically violent. Reports suggest one suspect was carrying a knife, but that they were spooked by nearby cyclists and fled the scene. The victims, moderately injured, reported the crime to local police.

Many supporters have reached out to the men. The incident furthers the ongoing national conversation about the rise in anti-gay hate crimes.

The first weekend of November was filled with parties across the state to kick off the one-year countdown for the same-sex marriage campaign. “The very same people, the very same community, the very same state that did something wrong now understands it needs to set it right,” said pqmonthly.com

Freedom to Marry founder Evan Wolfson of the 2004 elections in contrast to the upcoming 2014 elections. There were hundreds of house parties raising same-sex marriage awareness in Oregon and the campaign will continue in the coming months. Everyone knows gay punch is the best punch to drink, so keep the house parties rolling.

On Monday, November 4th Democratic Sen. Jeff Merkley of Oregon made waves in the Senate by receiving the 60 minimum votes needed—a magic number required to advance a bill—in an effort to disallow workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

This came as a major leap for Merkley, the former Oregon House speaker, who has championed the Employment Non-Discrimination Act. Sen. Dean Heller, R-Nev., followed by Sens. Kelly Ayotte, R-N.H., and Rob Portman, R-Ohio, completed the final votes. Following this proceeding, the U.S. Senate passed the #ENDA bill on Thursday, November 7th. If you didn’t read it all over social media, a triumphant vote of 64-32 followed, including an “aye” from Republican Sen. John McCain of Arizona. Now the legislation goes to the House of Representatives. So, go get your workplace gay on—consider it the best raise of all.

The Human Rights Campaign pledged to match every donation made during the weekend of November 1st-3rd with $250,000 in congruence with Oregon’s efforts to repeal the state’s DOMA—incentive to up the ante before voting a year from this month. ACLU pledged the same for every person who attended a state house party. With plans to continue these heightened campaigns in the future, Oregon United for Marriage is hopeful to receive ample signatures for two important ballot-worthy items in 2014—the Right to Marry and Religious Protection Amendment. To become a registered voter in Oregon, visit: oregonvotes.org Leahnora Isaak, a Portland resident, is seeking recognition by the LDS Church as a Mormon transsexual. On November 5th, she spoke with KATU about her formal requests to the church—a seemingly controversial topic among Mormon Church leaders. “I just want to live the gospel. I want to live the plan of happiness, which I believe applies to all people,” Isaak says. The Church has not issued any responses as of yet, but Isaak’s brave action for equality is already heard.

The TransConnect Resource Fair returned November 10th at Q Center. Organizers, volunteers and attendants came together for workshops, exhibits, counseling, a very cool video storytelling booth and a clothing swap. Sliding-scale donations were cheerfully accepted, but entry was free. This event unites, inspires and joins together the gender non-conforming and transgender community and their allies. Email lissy@pdxqcenter.org for more information.

PHOTOS CULLED FROM PQ ARCHIVES

Transgender Day of Remembrance is scheduled for November 20th. Basic Rights’ Trans Justice Organizer Peter Molof writes: “TDoR serves to bring attention to these transphobic hate crimes and to raise public awareness of these heinous acts which are often ignored by the media.” TDoR was created in 1998 after the murder of Rita Hester. During the month of November, many TDoR events, vigils, speakers, panels and masses are scheduled across the state. Find out where and how you can participate at basicrights.org

NATIONAL United Airlines was named one of the “Top Companies for LGBT Equality” for 2013 on October 25th by Work Life Matters magazine. This annual national award is given to companies that exemplify positive LGBT support in the workplace. For the past five years, the Human Rights Campaign has recognized United under their “Best Places to Work” list. This news arrives just in time for the holiday travel season.

Agender California teenager, Sasha Fleischman, is in recovery after being set on fire by 16 year-old Richard Thomas, who was arrested November 5th, and will be tried as an adult. On November 8th, Thomas was charged with a hate crime, aggravated mayhem, and felony assault. Fleischman identifies outside of the gender binary and chose to wear a skirt on the day they were attacked. Helping Sasha Have a Speedy Recovery via Fundly.com was set up. Over $21,000 has been raised.

Ye old Land of Lincoln is now officially the 15th state to allow same-sex marriage. Tuesday, November 5th was a day of celebration for Illinoisans when the Illinois House of Representatives passed a bill to legalize same-sex marriage. The vote was 61-54 in favor of the bill introduced by Democratic Rep. Greg Harris. Now it’s up to Governor Pat Quinn to put his John Hancock on the document. Once signed, same-sex couples will be allowed to legally marry in Illinois as of June 2014.

On the heels of Illinois’ momentum, the Hawaii House advanced their same-sex marriage bill, SB1, on Wednesday, November 6th, with final decisions set for Friday, November 8th. Many Hawaiian residents were in opposition of the bill in oral testimony Tuesday evening, some disrupting the proceedings. Aside from “hello,” “aloha” also means peace and compassion, and Hawaiians proved they have it in spades. Lawmakers passed the bill, and Gov. Abercrombie signed it. State officials will begin issuing licenses imminently.

--Kim Hoffman November-December 2013 • 5

NEWS

Providing social work and nursing medical case management to people living with HIV/AIDS since 1995.

For intake scheduling, information, and referral:

503-230-1202 • ohsu.edu/partnership

6 • November-December 2013

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FEATURE

HOOP DREAMS: PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS EMBRACE LGBTQ EQUALITY; PLEDGE EVENTUAL “PRIDE NIGHT”

Welcome news in Rip City as the Portland Trail Blazers endorse marriage equality and pledge a “Pride night.” They’re also off to their best start since 1999. Coincidence? Probably. But still.

By Shaley Howard PQ Monthly

It was 1977, and the Portland Trail Blazers had just won the NBA championship. I was a 10-year-old little tomboy that had just started playing the sport I would come to love — basketball. As I grew, I knew I either wanted to be a professional basketball player, Superman, or an astronaut. Although none of these career choices came to fruition, my love for basketball and the Blazers continued — though I’m still working on the Superman part. From having life-size posters of Maurice Lucas on my wall to sitting in awe of ‘Clyde the Glide’ flying through the air to today’s current Blazer stars Roy and Lillard — I can easily claim I’m a lifelong fan.

I’m also a big lesbian — a lesbian who has been attending Blazer games ever since I can remember. And even though I would always cheer loudly for my hometown team, the Portland Trail Blazers, I knew I was never really welcomed with open arms because of my sexual orientation — a tad bit heartbreaking and ironic that the sport and team I loved and supported did not support me.

While attending home games over the years as an obvious butch-looking lesbian, I knew not to respond to disparaging gay jokes, innuendos or the constant looks — I needed to blend in, focus on the game and have fun with friends. I knew when the “kiss cam” (a camera that is positioned on audience members during breaks, urging them to kiss accompanied by a smooching sound) was jokingly put on two men, usually two players on the opposing team, to laugh along with everyone else or just say nothing. I clearly understood the undercurrent and message I was so familiar with growing up in a homophobic society — being gay is abnormal and should not be happqmonthly.com

pening. I mean really — how incredibly funny it is to see two MEN kiss?!

Fast forward to October 11, 2013, and The Portland Trail Blazers announce that they are coming out in support of gay marriage. From their press release: “We are in support of the Freedom to Marry and Religious Protection ballot initiative. We do so as believers in individual choice as a fundamental right of all people.” This was a day I will not soon forget. Not only was my team — my team — coming out in support of the LGBTQ community, they were also the first NBA franchise to do so.

When I chatted with Trail Blazers Vice President of Community Relations Traci Rose about what prompted the Trail Blazers to come out in support of gay marriage, she replied thusly: “The motivation actually started when we were first working years ago with Basic Rights Oregon (BRO), one of the organizations that inspired us to created ‘Respect, Pass It On’, a program that focuses on promoting respect for everyone and ending bullying. We were seeing the bullying trend continue, especially with LGBTQ students. We realized we are the Trail Blazers — we receive a lot of attention with 20,000 people in our building every night, and we have the ability to shine this incredible light on things. We know that we’re not the experts, especially on serious topics like bullying, but what we can do is help start the conversation, get people’s attention and get them to the groups and organizations out there that are the experts and are doing the work.”

The Blazers are in good company — as businesses as diverse as Moda, Nike, adidas (and many others) have come out in support of LGBTQ equality. And the support from the Blazers comes from the top-down. Vulcan Inc. and Trail Blazers owner Paul Allen was one of the largest sup-

PHOTO PROVIDED BY PORTLAND TRAILBLAZERS

porters of Washington’s marriage equality legislation back in 2012. Vulcan Inc. was one of the original signatories on a high-profile petition — eventually sent to legislators — that ostensibly recruited other companies to support the statewide same-sex marriage campaign initiative.

“I’m not surprised at all by the long list of other businesses supporting the Trail Blazers and marriage equality,” Rose continued. “I think that everyone recognizes and understands that it’s not only important to us and our business community but to our community in general. This is about human rights, basic rights and equality. This is not political; this is about us doing the right thing,” The Blazers traditionally have certain nights throughout the season that are used to celebrate diversity in our community, like Latino and Native American night. The question on my mind with all of this LGBTQ equality talk was — will the Trail Blazers have a PRIDE night? The answer was an immediate yes — in fact, it was an unfettered, absolute yes. Apparently when Rose took the endorsement contract into Trail Blazer President Chris McGowan’s office needing his signature; he signed, then looked up at Rose and said, “So when are we going to have a Pride night?”

What remains to be seen is whether or not the fans will step up and follow the Trail Blazer lead in supporting LGBTQ equality — queers wonder, will there be backlash? In that regard, only time will tell. We’ve experienced homophobia for years, but our community does know one thing for certain — people grow and change does come—even when it’s slow and painful, it does come. I am fully confident that someday soon not only will the “kiss cam” land on two unsuspecting queers — but conversations about LGBTQ equality will be irrelevant. My guess, however, is the “kiss cam” will come first. Baby steps, queers, baby steps.

November-December 2013 • 7

LOCAL INSPIRATION

MICHELE MANNIX EMPOWERS THE HOMELESS TO RUN WITH ONE STEP CLOSER “We had to come up costumes. It was setting the intention of finishing a chalwith routines that made lenge and doing it. “After the race one of the guys told me sense and were agree- he couldn’t believe it was over and he was going to miss us,” able to them emotionally says Mannix. “But they also talked about how their sleep and physically,” explains was better, their moods where better, and their self-esteem M a n n i x . “Ev e r y w e e k had increased.” These seem like simple outcomes; however, we build up our endur- for two men who have struggled with mental-illness and ance and stamina, which addiction for most of their lives, and spent the last several allowed them to see that years sleeping under the Broadway Bridge, running a race they could do it.” proved to be a major victory.

One Step Closer “One really struggled with anxiety, so he really had to rely recruits its participants on his recovery and coping skills, but he felt he was improving by setting up information because he was able to run a race with two-thousand people.” sessions at loca l homeHomelessness can create an intense sense of isolation less ser v ices prov iders; in people, a feeling of not-belonging; the running club the last running club was allows the participants the chance to be part of a group recruited through Central and support each other. Now the two men who finished Cit y Concern in dow n- the race want to help out with the next running session town Portland. as running mentors — a desire that thrills Mannix. “I do “The relationship we what I do well,” she says, “which is to engage with people have with the case man- who struggle.” agers, the community How does Mannix stay strong in her work? Perhaps and mental health practi- unsurprisingly, she runs. “Running is also my spiritual fitOne Step Closer organizes running clubs for Portland’s homeless population. They’re also always welcoming donations. tioners, is important,” says ness, it’s how I manage my ups and downs. It’s how I stay Mannix. “It creates a sup- mindful and how I’m dealing with getting older. I work in

By TJ Acena port net outside of the twice a week trainings.” a field that is very stressful and that’s how I manage my PQ Monthly Out of the six people who signed up for the last running stress.” Mannix recently completed her first triathlon this year to celebrate her Selling someone who doesn’t run on the idea of joining club, only two made it to race day. However, sixtieth birthday. a running club can be hard. Selling someone who doesn’t Mannix is very pragmatic about the attrition.

“It’s a population that struggles with comJust as Mannix is run who has also been homeless for years on the idea of mitment, isolation, and the struggle with recovpersonally ambitious joining a running club is even harder. when it comes to runHowever, that’s precisely what Michele Mannix does ery,” she notes. “It’s a population that hits speed ning, she’s ambitious as part of One Step Closer, a non-profit that starts run- bumps and often it takes time to pick themabout the future of ning clubs for the homeless in Portland — the organiza- selves back up. Some of these are people on One Step Closer. The tion was founded by Jennifer McDonald. Based on a Phil- psychotropic meds and often the meds don’t organization currently adelphia-based program called Back on My Feet, One Step make you feel like running three miles.”

W hy start a running club for homeless seeks to start a new Closer is a natural fit for Mannix, an out mental health prorunning club through fessional and therapist who has worked with homeless pop- people? The answer is obvious to Mannix: “We practice t hese sorts of t hings, why a different service proulations since 1997. vider early next year.

The last running club Mannix trained set out to com- shouldn’t they be able to?” Going on a run “The goal is to throw plete Run Like Hell, a Halloween-themed race, earlier in seems like such a simple thing, but it’s easy a bigger net,” she October. One Step Forward covered the race registration to see how the fact that you could go on a run Michele Mannix (second from left, above) finds peace and balance in says. “Ten is a good fees and provided fitted running shoes — donated from if you wanted to is a luxury. “Most of these running, and she hopes to spread the love. number, so you’d have athletic apparel company Saucony. There were twelve people have just been focused on getting to start with fifteen. Imagine the energy of ten people runweeks from recruitment to race — and as most of the their basic needs met.”

To the two men who finished Run Like Hell, the experi- ning, the camaraderie, and the fellowship. Hopefully these participants hadn’t exercised regularly in years, trainence was more than just a 5k race surrounded by people in folks will spread it out to other people.” ing them was hard.

8 • November-December 2013

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NEWS

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November-December 2013 • 9

NEWS FEATURES FEATURES NEWS

THE LADY CHRONICLES LADY IN THE DESERT:

A PALM SPRINGS RETROSPECTIVE

By Daniel Borgen PQ Monthly

Your LOCAL full-service marketing agency that will connect you with the diverse populations of Oregon and SW Washington

WWW.SUPUBLICO.COM 10 • November-December 2013

If I could change just one thing about myself, it would go like this — and before you go thinking I’d rub a genie’s lamp for a smaller head, Amy Grant hair, or a sublime love life — I simply wish I took more chances. I wish I lived with reckless abandon. I wish I weren’t trapped inside my Taurean brain. I wish it hadn’t taken me two years to move out of the house I shared with my ex-partner; I wish it didn’t take me 33 years to take my first trip to NYC—the list goes on. It often takes the hand of the almighty to force my hand.

A dear friend of mine spent years trying to convince me to go to Palm Springs Pride (held in late autumn every year). Others went and followed suit, but no one was more relentless than he was. Each year, I’d agree to go, back out sometime late summer — citing legitimate work conflicts or finances — and half my friends, again and again, went without me. I’d see pictures and, sure, feel the tiniest pangs of jealousy, but I’d tell myself some sweet little lies to cope. I’ve seen plenty of Prides, I thought.

Why waste a trip to Palm Springs when I could jet down to LA and San Francisco?

This year, “no” wasn’t in the cards. It went like this: “I’m booking your ticket now.” (I’m forcing your hand.) “We’ll fly into Ontario, rent a car, and drive in. If you’re going to do this, you’re going to do it right.” Once, a mentor and friend showed him, and this year he’d show me.

It’s a short drive from Ontario (not so great) to Palm Springs (going forward, “Heaven”), and the jaunt is a fairly desolate one (nary a radio station) if you don’t have good company (and some sweet California herbs). My friend Andrew likes saying that giving me pot is like giving me a rufie, and it’s sort of true. A few tokes off that sweet reefer pipe and I’m in another dimension.

But I didn’t need any other-worldly-induced state to marvel over our drive in. The desert, especially as you approach Heaven, is striking and unique in its beauty. Mountains nestle the city, keeping her safe, and the sun bounces off all manner of rock and desert plant. Some say barren and dry, I say bountiful and exquisite.

After obligatory, touristy photos at Heaven’s city limits, we settled into our digs, a small compound aptly named “A Place in the Sun.” The compound was built back in the day for Elizabeth Taylor’s film — and though “Place” was constructed for her crew, I like to pretend we stayed in the same room she did. Our home for the weekend, Golden Girls West, offered up rattan and pastels and ornate lamps for days. From

that moment forward, it was swimming pools, suns c re e n , a n d a l l manner of adult beverage.

We grocery shopped at Ralph’s, the crusiest spot on the planet, where we met a friendly group of men throwing a party in the hills called “Booze and Nuts.” We dined off golf courses at Spencer’s and sipped cocktails at A Street Bar Named Desire. We fended off aggressive courters at the Tool Shed (I’ve never felt so young and beautiful), and I donned a giant floppy white hat to wear out to the hot clubs — and to “Booze and Nuts,” which was held at one of the most glamorous mansions I’ve ever laid eyes on. Frank Lloyd Wright, meet Jeff Lewis. Heaven is an architect’s dream—I drooled over so many constructs. We happened upon a drag ball and walked away with medals.

We attended pool parties, found Heklina Heklina and half of San Francisco (the gorgeous half ) in the desert. We rode in convertibles, sported cut offs and strappy tanks, had a Portland power lesbian guide us (thanks, Mary), and watched the Pride Parade from the deck at Azul’s. If you ever want to feel like your vodka soda is really a fountain of youth, go there — plus, drag queens and history for days. And if there’s one thing Heaven has, it’s certainly history.

I realize my glimpse of Palm Springs was skewed, considering I went for one of its busiest weekends and half of Portland went along for the ride. But as I talked to locals (my favorite thing), I realized Heaven is what you want it to be—nights out at Hunter’s and Toucan’s, or days in, cloistered away poolside, picking grapefruits off trees and making the most delicious greyhounds on the planet.

On my flight home, I met my soul mate, a woman I’m sure I knew in another life. Earlier, as we sat waiting to board our plane, my friends saw her, dressed in nautical stripes and khakis (like I was), ambling toward the convenience store. “Look, it’s you,” they said.

I ended up sitting next to her on the plane—her name is Barbara (but she likes to go by Bobbi), and she celebrated her 77th birthday (she doesn’t look a day over 55) in the desert, painting a mural her friend commissioned her to make. We talked Reiki, coming out stories, beauty secrets (lots of fruit), being a stewardess in the 50s, desert vs. Northwest life, and booze (careful of your liver, young man). It was, in short, the most life-affirming conversation I’ve ever had, and we agreed to remain pen pals.

Looking at her was like looking in a mirror, and that weekend I realized the view isn’t half-bad.

Yes, I’ve already emailed Bobbi. And captured our moment on (digital) film.

Daniel@PQMonthly.com pqmonthly.com

FEATURES

BUSINESS BRIEFS

NOPO PAWS Sarah Fuller opened NoPo Paws on Earth Day 2011, making Sarah’s dream a reality. Quite simply, dogs are Sarah’s passion and this shines through at NoPo Paws, located in burgeoning North Portland — 2148 N. Killingsworth.

“NoPo Paws’ mission is to be the best neighborhood pet store in North Portland. My commitment to high quality products is simple: I only sell products that I would use with my own pets, whether it be food, supplements or toys. In addition to a commitment to the highest quality, my mission is also to provide environmentally friendly and locally made options for pet guardians,” says Fuller. Fuller’s commitment goes beyond her day-to-day tasks at her shop, not only does she donate 10% of net profits to animal rescues and welfare organizations, Fuller also hosts monthly adoption events on the first Saturday of each month regularly promotes other local rescue fundraisers and events. As if all the amazing things NoPo Paws does isn’t enough, mention PQ Monthly and you will receive a 20% discount until the end of 2013. Follow NoPo Paws on Twitter.con/nopopaws and facebook.com/nopopaws. Call 503.477.8381 or email Sarah nopopaws@gmail.com.

APEX BODY WORKS “A wellness concept of functional training, therapeutic, and sports massage” is what Apex Body Works is all about.

Danielle del Prado and Cathleen Bucio opened Apex in April 2013 with the philosophy of “Functional Training.”

The Apex Team develops exercises that allow individuals to better perform their daily activities. You will learn quality movement patterns to correct muscle imbalances and retrain your body to move better and strengthen your core muscles to avoid pain and poor posture, while increasing flexibility. Erase any thoughts of “typical gym and think “YOU are the machine.” Danielle del Prado pqmonthly.com

tells PQ: “Our goal is to provide a hub to first improve your physical strength, help increase your balance and flexibility, help you create the habits to support a balanced life, and then ultimately a sound wellbeing.” They handle everything from nutrition to pain management. Cathleen and Danielle have more certificates in fitness, nutrition, and health than will fit here. Suffice it to say, your questions will be answered. Massage, often overlooked in fitness training, is an integral part of your regime at Apex.

Swedish, Sports, Deep Tissue, and myofascial trigger point massage—all of which will rock your world! Classes start at only $10 and as a new client, your first 30 minutes of massage are free. Mention PQ Monthly for a one-time customized pricing special when purchasing any large training package on your first visit. Located at 5816 SE Foster Road, Portland. Contact Danielle or Cathleen at www.ApexBodyWorks.com or ApexBodyWorks@gmail. com (503) 348-6577 THE HUNGRY HERO DESSERT CO. Were you, along with hundreds of people, at BRO’s Ignite, Friday October 11, 2013? If so, I am sure you tasted some of the delicious desserts available, from scrumptious apple pie pops to brownies — so wonderfully flavorful, chewy, and moist — then you’ve met The Hungry Hero Dessert Co. Alex Wilson, a graduate from Oregon Culinary School, has always had a love for good food and desserts.

“When I decided to switch careers, I knew that I wanted to do something creative. Switching to the dessert world just seemed like a natural move.” Dessert is most everyone’s favorite food group, right? And, honestly, when we go to a gala or party, the dessert table is where most seem to congregate. Wilson has catered many of the parties around town — at Q Center, Our House, and for The Oregon Bears.

“I believe that building a business on a foundation of charity and goodwill is the absolute way to go.”

“I’ve see the smile that the perfect cupcake can put on someone’s face — as simple as that cupcake is, I feel like it really does have a profound effect on the person enjoying it.” As a true lover of variety, Wilson loves creating tables filled with all sorts of delicious treats to satisfy everyone’s cravings. I don’t k n ow a b o u t yo u , d e a r re a d e r, b u t when someone says they want to “satisfy my cravings,” they instantly become my Hero. Not only does Wilson lovingly create delights to make us all happy, he also uses his culinary skill to enhance events that support causes he believes in. “My Company has given me a voice. I have met some of the most incredible people in the LGBTQ Community who have given me much hope for change.” If you are not a queer person but are reading this, don’t worry, unlike some bakeries we’ve had to boycott and write about, The Hungry Hero Dessert Co. will create fabulous wedding desserts for anyone, no matter your race, religion, or orientation. “Love is Love. There is no room in life for negativity or hate.” Wilson says. Wilson’s next big event is the Winter Gala for Q Center in 2014. If you are like me, you certainly want to enjoy some of Hungry Hero’s desserts way

before then, just go to Fat Milo’s Family Kitchen at 16147 SW Railroad St., in downtown Sherwood. You can email Alex (Alex@thehungryhero.com) and ask him to make you something that will satisfy your craving! To see what Alex bakes daily go to Facebook.com/TheHungryHeroDessertCo www.TheHungryHeroDessertCo.com

ALBERTA VETERINARY CARE Alberta has a new Vet and Vet clinic in the Arts Neighborhood. Dr. Justin Michael Cates, DVM, opened Alberta Veterinary Care on November 2, 2013. Dr. Cates settled in Portland in 2001 with the dream of one day opening his own vet practice where he could bring quality, individualized and comprehensive veterinary care to the Alberta Arts Neighborhood. “I feel lucky that I was able to dovetail my love of animals and science into a really fulfilling career in veterinary medicine,” says Cates. Passionate about finding solutions for your pets that fit your family’s budget and lifestyle, along with routine vet care, Dr. Cates is particularly interested in tough dermatology cases, geriatric medicine, and soft tissue surgery.

Alberta Veterinary Care is a full-service clinic with advanced diagnostic services providing everything from microchip implantation to dental care and surgery. Dr. Cates says: “We pride ourselves on high quality comprehensive care; we offer digital dental radiography which reduces the amount of time your pet has to be under anesthesia for dentistry and allows for a more complete visualization of dental pathology. We have anesthetic monitoring similar to what human hospitals use for their surgical patients to make an anesthetic event as safe as possible for your pet. Our approach to medicine is to be as comprehensive and personalized as possible. We understand that no one knows your pet better than you and our goal is to understand your pet’s needs and come up with a treatment plan that fits your goals and budget.” You can call Alberta Veterinary Care to see Dr. Cates at 503-2067700 or go online at www.AlbertaVeterinaryCare.com to request an appointment. Like AVC on Facebook: https:// www.facebook.com/albertavetcare The clinic is open Tuesday-Saturday. Mention PQ Monthly for a free initial exam (a $48) value. (Limit one per family. Excludes services provided and products purchased outside of the exam.) 1737 NE Alberta Suite 102, Portland, OR

--Gabriela Kandziora November-December 2013 • 11

FEATURE

TRANSACTIVE: A HAVEN AND A VOICE FOR TRANSGENDER CHILDREN

PPHOTOS PROVIDED BY TRANSACTIVE

Families whose children begin identifying as transgender or gender variant often feel overwhelmed and alone. TransActive works to alleviate that fear through education and resource-allocation.

By Leela Ginelle PQ Monthly

In August of 2012 TransActive Education and Advocacy was contacted by a transmasculine youth. The young man was a student at Grant high school, and he and his family were working with the school to arrange the details of his transition there.

He told the TransActive staff that, though the school had agreed to use his chosen name and refer to him by male pronouns, they would not let him access men’s bathrooms.

He soon learned that, in contacting TransActive, he’d gone to the right place.

“We sent a letter to administrators at Grant and the Title IX officer for Portland Public Schools citing the Oregon Equality Act, the Oregon Safe Schools Act and a 2010 notice from the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights,” says TransActive’s Executive Director Jenn Burleton, of the group’s response at the time.

“In the letter we noted that gender identity and gender expression were protected and that denying access to a public accommodation, such as a restroom, was a violation of those rights.”

Shortly thereafter, TransActive’s advocacy staff was invited to meet with PPS General Counsel and Board Secretary Jollee Patterson.

“She shared with us a draft of guidance memorandum from her office that clarified the rights of transgender students in Portland Public Schools. Among those rights were the use of a restroom that corresponds with their consistently expressed gender identity,” Burleton says.

The action had a ripple effect.

“Shortly thereafter, Multnomah County announced that all new and remodeled buildings in the county would 12 • November-December 2013

be required to have gender neutral restrooms and they cited the recent steps taken by Portland Public Schools as the inspiration for that decision,” Burleton notes, “and a short while later, Tigard-Tualatin school district announced the plans to add gender neutral restrooms to all of their schools.”

Successes like these are why families of transgender children and youth see TransActive as such an invaluable resource. Transgender children are a vulnerable population, and, as this anecdote illustrates, the laws protecting their rights are not always well-understood even by those who should be enforcing them.

In TransActive, families find a knowledgeable, dedicated, caring ally, and a community, as well.

Families whose children begin identifying as transgender or gender variant often feel overwhelmed and frightened for their children’s future. It was in this state that Megan Foster (not her real name) first reached out to TransActive.

“I was so nervous,” Foster says. “I was nervous as what was going to come for my child, my family, and coming to TransActive was making it all the more real.”

“But, when we first stepped through the doors, my child found something that was missing. So, even though it was a very overwhelming experience, it was so amazing to see the relief in my child’s eyes that there were other people out there just like her and this place was a place made for her.”

TransActive offers an array of services to the families it helps, including counseling, case management, multiple support groups for children aged 4-9, 10-13, and 14-21, as well as a family support group, and its Advocacy Project.

Foster’s daughter Mandy has accessed counseling at TransActive, which Foster says has given her “a safe place

to talk about how she feels.” Likewise, she and her husband have attended couples counseling there. “It helped us through a lot,” she says. “The counseling helped (us) become more united as parents.”

TransActive also assisted Foster with advocacy, which she characterizes as “truly a blessing.”

“All I did was contact them to ask questions about how to help Mandy transition in school and they immediately picked up the phone and contacted her school,” she says. “They set up a meeting with the staff and educated the staff on transgender issues, which made my life so much easier! I didn’t have to explain anything to anyone and from the first day of school she was welcomed with open arms.”

Also involved with TransActive is Kayla Molloy, whose daughter Beth (not their real names) attends the Butterflies group for children four through nine. Kayla describes Beth as a shy child, who’s moved cautiously through her transition.

At TransActive, Kayla says, Beth “looks so at ease and comfortable. In the beginning it was so important for her to have that space where she didn’t feel alone or ‘different.’”

The previous year, in kindergarten, Beth had lived as a girl at home, but identified as a boy at school. This year she has lived as Beth full time, and Kayla sees an enormous benefit.

“Living as her true self has filled her with a confidence that wasn’t there before,” she says. “She missed 25 days of kindergarten last year, we called them ‘Beth Days,’ she just needed to be home and not pretend. This year she hasn’t needed one Beth day at home because she gets to be Beth everyday!”

The number of families like these TransActive serves has mushroomed since it began serving clients in 2010, according to TransActive Advisory Board member Sarah Keefe.

“When we opened our doors in September of 2010 we didn’t know if the phone would ring,” Keefe says. “We served 3 families that year. In 2011, we had around 45 families come in for help. Last year, we had 107 new families, and we thought, we couldn’t possibly double again! But since January of this year, we’ve had 170 new families come in for services. We more than double each year.”

These statistics omit the people outside the Portland metro area who discover TransActive via the internet, Keefe points out.

“It doesn’t include the families calling us from Texas, Idaho, Missouri, Massachusetts, and Germany and New Zealand who we provide support to over the phone and via the web,” she says. “It doesn’t include the over 1,000 youth who’ve contacted us for resources. We are learning that what TransActive is doing is truly unique.”

TransActive’s latest policy victory involves pubertal suppression drugs, medications that inhibit the production of hormones in adolescent children, which have become commonly prescribed to youth diagnosed with gender identity disorder.

“TransActive was asked to prepare and present testimony to the Oregon Health Commission on the need to add coverage for pubertal suppression treatment to the Oregon Health Plan,” Burleton says.

The members of TransActive’s Healthcare Committee, Dr. Karin Selva of Randall Children’s Hospital, Dr. Carol Blenning of OHSU, and Heidi Allen, PhD of PSU & Columbia University, all of whom volunteer their efforts, worked TRANSACTIVE p age 15

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FEATURES FEATURES PERSPECTIVES

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November-December 2013 • 13

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TRANSACTIVE: “TRANSACTIVE’S GOAL IS TO BE A WORLD CENTER FOR A COMPREHENSIVE RANGE OF SERVICES TO FAMILIES OF TRANSGENDER CHILDREN AND YOUTH. THIS WILL INVOLVE A DEEPER COMMITMENT TO NEEDED RESEARCH ON THE VALUE OF EARLY SUPPORT FOR THESE KIDS AND THE LONG-TERM OUTCOMES OF THAT SUPPORT.” Continued from page 15

TransActive’s goal is to be a world center for a comprehensive range of services to families of transgender children and youth. with TransActive’s staff on their testimony.

The coverage was approved by the OHC, and pubertal suppression drugs will be covered by under the Oregon Health Plan beginning on October 1, 2014.

“This will save the lives of many transgender adolescents and teens in Oregon whose families would otherwise not be able to afford the $1,000 per month out-ofpocket cost for pubertal suppression,” Burleton says. “We know that suicidal ideation and suicide attempts by transgender youth spike when puberty hits, and this is directly connected to the realization that their bodies are changing in ways that will make it even more difficult for them to be accepted by others as their true gender.”

TransActive will celebrate a milestone of a different sort on Sunday Dec. 8, when it holds its 6th annual Super Heroes for Super Kids Community Event and Silent Auction at Refuge PDX. The event has come a long way from when it began in a coffee shop in Aloha, with 25 people in attendance.

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Since then it’s had former mayor Sam Adams and Secretary of State Kate Brown as speakers, as well as national transgender advocates Janet Mock and Wayne Maines.

This year’s event will feature comedienne and PQ columnist Belinda Carroll as its MC, and nationally recognized transgender family advocate Leslie Lagerstrom as it its featured speaker.

Attendees will be able to bid on auction items and selections from the Wall of Wine to benefit TransActive’s work, while kids can visit the “Bat Cave” with its “cape making station” and other attractions.

Looking ahead, Burleton envisions great growth for the organization.

“TransActive’s goal is to be a world center for a comprehensive range of services to families of transgender children and youth,” she says. “This will involve a deeper commitment to needed research on the value of early support for these kids and the long-term outcomes of that support.”

She sites current prevalence studies that say trans-

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY TRANSACTIVE

gender identity occurs in between one and two percent of the population, which would mean Portland, statistically, houses at least 22,000 transpeople.

“Most of them are not ‘out’ for a variety of reasons and many are children and youth,” she says. “We have our work cut out for us.”

The changes she hopes to help bring about go far beyond the trans community.

“Changing any culture oppressed by misogynistic and patriarchal systems is an imperative,” Burleton says.

“Our children and youth will, quite simply, never realize their full potential as human beings under the current paradigm.”

“Some may think my goals for the organization are unrealistic, but I don’t pay much attention to that kind of thinking,” she says. “If I did, TransActive wouldn’t even exist.”

Super Heroes for Super Kids Sunday Dec. 8th from 3-6pm at Refuge PDX 116 SE Yamhill St. $20 online; $25 at the door.

November-December 2013 • 15

FEATURES FEATURES

LATEBIAN LIFE “COULD I STILL BE A LESBIAN AND DATE MEN?”

By Kathryn Martini PQ Monthly

Thursdays *5:30-7:15pm

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& confidential walk-in HIV testing

Northeast Health Center: 5329 NE MLK Jr. Blvd. 2 Floor. 503-988-3030

“So what are you now?” is the question I hear often. I’ve spent the last nine years writing about coming out later in life as a lesbian; I’ve written that it’s okay to choose to be gay, because sometimes and for some people, being gay is better. I thought I was a more evolved person by seeking and choosing the kind of relationship that fulfilled me in ways I wasn’t otherwise. I’d become part of a community; I worked for equality and I felt comfortable and reconciled in my lesbian identity, until my life changed.

In July, before the PQ Monthly press party, I announced I was bringing a date—a date who was a man. I felt nervous. I wondered if my column would be taken away and what my colleagues would say. What would my community think? Was I still a latebian?

Could I still be a lesbian and date men?

Sexuality is fluid. Sometimes it’s a standing pond and sometimes more like a rushing river, but flowing nonetheless—being open to that fluidity is the gateway to an ever-changing landscape. When I found myself moving through a divorce from my wife of seven years, the devastation and the heartbreak of her leaving threw me into the cesspool of dating and I desperately grasped for the life raft that fit me best. I didn’t choose change, but because it did I wanted to use it as an opportunity for new experiences and a new self. My previous incarnation of heterosexual, monogamous soccer mom was long behind me, and my identity as a lesbian in a committed relationship disintegrated at my feet. Forced to put it back together, I refused to utilize the same blueprint and as the architect of my new life, I would execute my plan conscientiously and with purpose; part of the design included considering sex with men.

I re-entered the world of hetero sex by way of a threesome with a married couple.

It was soft, sweet, and mutually enjoyable— afterward I slept between them snuggled like an erotic pretzel coated in warm sensuality. With my face buried in her long curly hair and his arms wrapped around me, it was the beginning of a lovely relationship that continues today. After that experience, I carefully considered the idea of multiple, non-monogamous relationships; I bought every book I could find and began researching ideas that fell even further outside the proverbial boxes I once occupied. I dated men, women, couples, and married men with their wives’ permission.

I decided for the foreseeable future I would consider myself a consciously non-monogamous pansexual. Semantics or not, pansexuals aren’t limited by gender or activity, but mostly I feared being relegated

into some bottom drawer queer ghetto if I unwittingly admitted I had been bisexual all along. Conscientious non-monogamists have multiple sexual relationships, either with a primary partner or not, and are open, honest, and communicative about his or her activities: to borrow the term from authors Dossie Easton and Janet W. Hardy, an ethical slut.

Yes, I would be that.

I met David through friends—both of us separated from our spouses and in different places in our lives than we had once imagined. We went on a casual daytime date to Sauvie Island that continued through the next week and from the first moment there was an easiness that neither of us had expected. We shared an intellectual and erotic draw that was unique, uncomplicated and effortless, despite the complications of our respective pasts and lives. He wasn’t part of my carefully executed plan, but he brought a beacon of light into my darkness. As I looked at our relationship, I knew I would be foolish to walk away from a love that made sense in every way even if the particular circumstances did not. I took him to the press party and my friends and colleagues welcomed him with biggay-open arms.

Where things will end up, I can’t know.

Right now I’m in a committed relationship with a man, but I’m not monogamous and I’m certainly not straight. I wish I didn’t have to provide this disclaimer in order to still feel connected to the community I’ve belonged for nearly a decade. I wish we didn’t limit the expression of our sexual identity to a string of letters in the alphabet that is meant to bring a broader acceptance of personal dynamics and appearance, but in some ways lends itself to creating larger boundaries. I understand why those divisions exist and there are large parts of me that continue to feel like a sell out.

I’m with a man and can pass as straight again, even if I’m not; I can capitalize on the heterosexual privilege available and afforded me in this society. It’s hard not to feel guilty about that. Where will I end up?

I learned a long time ago that I don’t know what tomorrow brings and that’s okay. Life is about the journey, and I hope that it’s a long and adventurous exploit filled with interesting twists and turns and people along the way filling my life with more inquiries than answers—for it is in the questions that we find meaning; it’s in the questions we find ourselves.

Kathryn can be reached through kathrynmartini.com.

16 • November-December 2013

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FEATURES

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November-December 2013 • 17

FEATURES SPORTS

WHISKEY & SYMPATHY

Dear Monika & Gula,

I tend to be very outgoing and I like to meet lots of people. I am in a loving, monogamous relationship and I tell my girlfriend everything, but she’s a little less outgoing than I am. The other night we were out and a “good” mutual friend of ours hit on me--privately and away from our group. This person knows I’m in a relationship but pursued me anyway.

I politely declined and reminded her I am in a relationship--one that isn’t open. My question is, should I tell my girlfriend? I am perplexed because I don’t want her to lose trust in me either way. I’m stumped, but it’s eating me up inside.

--Trust in Tualatin

Trust,

Kelly Stafford

503.515.2986 hshrealty.net

Sellers list for 4%, and buyers pay nothing!

Licensed in Oregon & Washington

Monika MHz

You tell your girlfriend everything. Except, you know, when you don’t. Spoiler alert, I’m going to tell you to have a conversation with your girlfriend. I’d love to leave it at that, because to me it’s a simple answer, but my editor demands more than “talk to your girlfriend” for an answer.

As a general rule, anything you keep from your boo that might upset them is “cheating.” It’s a much broader definition, but at the core it’s about that ominous word we advice columnists use over and over: communication. But let’s have a chat about this “friend” of yours. They knew good and well what they were doing. At the very least they knew it would piss your girlfriend off, but for some reason assumed it wouldn’t upset you to be cornered and propositioned by someone you thought you could trust. But, it’s all OK because after turning down her advances and making it clear you were not available for a knee-shaking fuck in a bathroom stall, you sat down with your girlfriend and… told her everything? Nope! Instead, you ignored the whole thing. It wasn’t your fault that someone else hit on you. If that was something to feel guilty about, I’d be the guiltiest jerk on the planet. You turned them down, and moved on, simple story. But if this is something that would upset your girlfriend, knowing your mutual friend did this, it’s on you that you didn’t say anything to her.

She should at least know she can’t trust this mutual friend anymore, that maybe she needs to have a conversation with this friend. She should know that she can trust you.

We have three scenarios here. The one you’ve been living in is blissful ignorance. If she just magically never learns the truth you both can continue on happy, though it seems like the guilt is tearing you up on the inside like an Arby’s sandwich.

The second one where you tell her can either work out happily where she laughs it off, or she gets angry at you keeping things from her. And if she finds out from anyone else, if your friend makes the confession to her or anyone mentions to her they saw you two flirting, you can no longer control the narrative and it spells bad news bears. The only scenario that you have any control over the outcome is the one where you have an honest conversation about getting creeped on by a friend.

So actually give her a reason to trust you, and just talk already!

Love, MHz

Trust,

Gula

Trust me, you did nothing wrong. The thing you need to do is stay away from that skeezy predator. She has no respect for you, your relationship or your girlfriend. Girl – she don’t love herself — sniffing around another ladies lady. It burns me up when someone acts like that, like they think there is a small chance you would say yes. SELFISH! I bet she has done it to many of your other friends.

She is bad news! And yes! I would tell your girlfriend so she knows what kind of person that bottom feeder is. You said no — you told the truth and your girlfriend should feel lucky to have an open honest girlfriend (once you tell her). Now you two will be on the same team looking out for each other when the jackals surround you.

I had the same thing happen. I was dating a very handsome boy and a “friend” of mine would make comments to me like “How did you land him?” or “your boyfriends is cute as hell!” The comments made me uncomfortable, but whatever, I never thought he would come out and hit on him.

Well, I was wrong. My boif went to Rooster Rock where he ran into my “friend” and they spent the day together. When my man got home he was agitated and didn’t want to talk about his day. With tons of pressure I got the juice out of him. My “friend” had put the moves on him! He even said things “don’t you think we would look better together?”

ARGH! I wanted to kill him! Instead I slowly cut him out of my life. Years later, my boif was gone and I ran into that dear old “friend” and he asked what happened to our friendship — I just said, “You kinda ruined it after hitting on my man at the beach.” It felt good. He didn’t remember.

I took a poll and it turns out this has happened to a lot of my friends. Come on queer people, respect each other.

I like to watch peoples’ actions, because they do speak louder than words. Trust in Tualatin, keep the people that show you friendship around you. You can cut out the others.

Best, Gula

Need some advice from Monika and Gula? Send your query — with “Whiskey & Sympathy” in the subject line — to info@pqmonthly.com.

Monika MHz is a DJ, queer trans Latina, and a feminist/Xicanista whose relationship status is “it’s complicated” with dubstep. Kinky, prudish, sexty, or cyber; survival, straight queer, gay, double queer (with a trans woman), or lesbian — if it’s sex, or a mistake, she’s been there, done that. Monika is an activist working hard for marginalized populations and runs a program offering in-home HIV testing for trans women. When not writing, she’s probably off somewhere making a dick joke or peeing while sitting down, like a champ.

18 • November-December 2013

Gula Delgatto’s life began in a small rural farming town in Romaina. She was scouted singing in a rocky field picking potatoes by a producer of a “Mickey Mouse Club” type ensemble. While touring the Americas the group fell apart due to jealousies and drugs. She later transitioned from Vaudeville to starring on the big screen to woman’s prison, and eventually advised the Dali Lama on fashion n-stuff. Currently she’s taking her life knowledge and giving back in an advice column for PQ.

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GET OUT! NOTE: CHECK OUT PAGE 26 FOR WORLD AIDS DAY EVENTS.

PQ PICKS

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21 PQ Monthly Press Party: Mix and mingle with the makers of your favorite queer newspaper. This goes down every third Thursday, at rotating venues. You’ll never know who you’ll gaze at from across the room, maybe it’s your new soul mate. This month: Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams. (Such a glamorous locale!) 5pm, 1106 W Burnside. Free, clearly.

Free HIV & STD Testing: Committed to the health of Portland’s community, Hawks PDX offers both free HIV and STD testing, twice monthly. Presented in conjunction with Cascade AIDS Project and Multnomah County Health Department, you can check your status to protect your health and those you play with, as well as speak to counselors if you have questions. Hawk’s PDX, 234 SE Grand.

The Fish Tank, featuring Raven and Jujubee: It’s true, Drag Race is invading—and they’re not invading Portland. They’re invading Vancouver. Real talk. In addition to the Drag Race faves, Asylum Lounge presents Kim-Chi, Greere Grimes, and Vivica Valentine. Fishy indeed! Come see what Daniel Stronghill has done with Asylum Lounge—it’s pretty impressive. It’s a big sprawling compound loaded with goodies— and hotties.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22 Oregon Health Co-Op Open House at Crush: Questions about Oregon’s Health Care Exchange? Want to find out more about your options under the new legislation? We invite you to this open house where you can get answers and insights as to your new options—including the locally-grown and nationally-certified nonprofit option of Oregon’s Health Co-Op. 4pm until 7pm, Crush, 1400 SE Morrison.

Slip and Stitches Second Annual Studio Sale. Alex Simon, Sarah Dee Ditson, and Korin Noelle invite you to come visit their studios and shop your little hearts out. They’ve been locked away creating treasures to make all of your holiday dreams come true. Take care of your gift shopping early and treat yourself to something real nice! Oh, and support local artists and crafters. This event is two days only—and the main bit is Friday night from 6pm-10pm. Snacks, drinks, first dibs. (Also open Saturday from noon until 5pm.) Radius Community Art Studios, 322 SE Morrison.

Dana Goldberg in sweet, sweet Portlandia. Dana brings her Crossing the Line tour to Portland, much to the relief of comedy fans across the city. One of the most sought after performers in comedy—with TBS, HBO, and LOGO on her resume—Dana is a force of nature, setting a standard for smart comedy, with perfect timing and tongue-in-cheek edginess. Curve claims she’s one of the funniest lesbians in America, and we believe them. Local celebrity Belinda Carroll opens. It’s at the Funhouse—be sure to order tall well drinks. 7:30pm, Funhouse, 2432 SE 11. Tickets: http:// www.brownpapertickets.com/event/501755 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23 House of Filth: Yes, this is listed in our “Dance It Out” section. Yes, I think you should check it out. It’s probably the best party you haven’t been to. This month’s agenda: Pocket Rock-It, Roy G Biv, and your gorgeous resident, Bruce LaBruiser. House, Disco, Electro, Remixes. 10pm,

1

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Beulahland, 118 NE 28. Free, but feel free to tip.

Blow Pony welcomes Micahtron and Jocquese to the Rose City for the very first time. They hail from San Francisco and really know how to put on a show. The usual Blow Pony masterminds join these very special guests. Hint: YouTube them. You won’t regret it. 9pm, Rotture, 315 SE Third. $5.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27 Queer Leather Dinner. This event is intended for everyone who self-identifies as Leather and any shade of Queer, or is interested and wishes to learn more. Queer Leather visitors from out of town are encouraged to attend as well. Aimed at building the Queer Leather community in Portland. Attendees are welcome to attend without food purchase to join the conversation. Listed as 7pm to 9pm because most people come on the early side, but folks are welcome to stay late.

7pm, Crush, 1400 SE Morrison.

The Great Holiday Heartache: The holidays are fast approaching friends, and you know what that means: Pagan Holladay and her motley crew are going to drag that seasonal affective disorder right out of your chest. Enjoy an enchanting evening of hijinks, antics, heartbreak, and pre-seasonal savvy— forget about Thanksgiving, this is a weird, wild, and woeful (early) holiday showcase that you’ll not soon forget. Broken, hearts have holidays too. Zora Phoenix (hi, Zora!), Aliyah Nicole, Coco Brown, Tod Alan, and more. 9:30pm, Scandals, 1125 SW Stark.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29 Chicken Strip Returns! I seriously can’t even with this lineup—it’s pretty great. From the Strip: “Let’s be real, we’ve all been super naughty and downright nasty this year.

The only thing we’ll be consuming this black Friday are our favorite fetishes—holi-gay style. Cum on, cum all, get on your knees, strap on your boots.” Whew. Alexis Campbell Starr, Stacy Stl Lisa, DieAna Dae, Aurora Diane Owen, and more! Chelsea Starr and Troubled Youth head up the music department. Jason Myers will go-go. (And there’s so much more.) 9:30pm, Funhouse Lounge, 2432 SE 11. $5.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1 World AIDS Day—a slew of events locally and nationally. Hit PQMonthly.com for the latest—and for a link to our story featuring the local rundown.

THURSDAY, DEC 7 Totes Hilars, December’s Version: This is a comedy variety show featuring queers and allies hosted by Melody Awesomazing—it happens once every 2 months. December’s version will have standup, burlesque, magicians, and much more. The lineup thus far includes MJ Dazzle, BabyLe Strange, Sally Mulligan, and many more. Check online for the latest—we’ll have the full write-up closer to the event date.

7pm, Old Town Floyd’s, 118 NW Couch. $5-10 at the door.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 16 Gay Skate, sponsored by yours truly (PQ Monthly). Every third Monday. Join Sock Dreams, the Rose City Rollers, and all the amateur skaters in the city at the one and only queer skate night. Work muscles you never knew you had—I know this is where you’ll meet your next life partner. 7-9pm, Oaks Park, 7805 SE Oaks Park Way. $6. All ages.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22: Laid Out goes Deep. Before going on a December hiatus, Portland’s newest gay dance party is going hard and deep with some of the city’s finest. Portland House legend Mercedes will be on the decks, as well as Bridge Club favorite Huf N’ Stuf, along with your treasured residents, Gossip Cat and Misti Miller. Photos, beautiful artwork, delightful music. Laid Out never lets us down, and I am supremely confident in their ability to bring it—especially before a hiatus. Say it isn’t so, Laid Out! OK, I’ll calm down, it’s just a month. 9pm, Holocene, 1001 SE Morrison. $5

2

PERS{ECTOVES 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 peruse photos from your reporters-about-town. Also, remember to carefully examine our weekly weekend forecast — with the latest and greatest events — each Wednesday (sometimes Thursday), online only.

--DANIEL BORGEN

pqmonthly.com/get-out

DANCE IT OUT (CHEERFULLY PAY YOUR COVERS; DEEJAYS GOTTA EAT, TOO.)

FIRST SUNDAYS Bridge Club. A slew of stellar deejays play music on the city’s most treasured patio. Old Boys Club regularly welcomes special guests. Snack, mingle, get down.

Bridge club is delighted to announce its permanent new home—Vendetta! No winter hiatus this year, lovelies.

Every Sunday. Superstar Divas. Bolivia Carmichaels, Honey Bea Hart, Ginger Lee (who’ll soon retire), and guest stars perform your favorite pop, Broadway, and country hits. (I. Love. These. Queens.) Dance floor opens after the show. Competition to find the Next Superstar Dive begins soon. Stay online for the latest. 8pm, CC Slaughters, 219 NW Davis. Free!

FIRST THURSDAYS Dragathon (every Thursday). Sponsored by Smirnoff, this Drag Race-esque competition features 11 queens and celebrity judges, hosted by Ecstacy Inferno. Goes down early enough you can still make the late show. 8pm, Funhouse Lounge, 2432 SE Eleventh.

Dirt Bag. Keyword: Bruce LaBruiser. She’ll make all your musical dreams come true. Indie, pop, electro, all of it.

Dance to the gayest jams. 10pm, The Know, 2026 NE Alberta. Free.

Hip Hop Heaven. Bolivia Carmichaels hosts this hip-hopheavy soiree night every Thursday night at CCs. Midnight guest performers and shows. 9pm, CC Slaughters, 219 NW Davis. Free.

FIRST FRIDAYS Genderf***ing Takeover invades a new dive bar (formerly Morrison Hotel). Hey, Queen! Hosted by Carla Rossi and featuring resident deejay Kasio Smashio, this mixer boasts special guests and swanky digs. 9pm, check online for new location. $3 out of drag, $1 in.

FIRST SATURDAYS Sugar Town. DJ Action Slacks. Keywords: Soul, polyester. 9pm, The Spare Room, 4830 NE 42. $5.

Maricón! Ill Camino rotates special guests and reinvents Crush with his beloved once-monthly dance party. (Moisti will still make cameos.) For homos and their homeys.

10pm, Crush,1400 SE Morrison. $3.

SECOND THURSDAYS I’ve Got a Hole in My Soul. Three keywords, the most important being: DJ Beyondadoubt. Others: soul, shimmy. 9pm, Holocene, 1001 SE Morrison. $5.

SECOND TUESDAYS Bi Bar—thank our friend Cameron Kude for pointing this out to us. Bi Bar is every second Tuesday at Crush, and it’s an open, bi-affirming space for music and mingling. Correction: Bi/Pan/Fluid/Queer. 8pm, Crush, 1400 SE Morrison.

SECOND SATURDAYS Mrs.: The queen of theme welcomes its new hostess,

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29 Hot Chocolate! OK, well, it’s really the Poison Waters and Friends Happy Hour Show at Al’s Den, but she’s bringing the cast of Hot Chocolate with her. (If you haven’t seen these queens, you must. I still dream about their Whitney tribute night.) Talk about a Black Friday (Poison’s words, not mine!) (See what she did there?) Maria Peters Lake, Tiara Desmond, Alexis Campbell Starr, and Kourtni Capree Duv will wow and entertain you.

P.S There’s no cover. You just bring dollar bills for tipping, credit cards for drinking, and your hands for applauding. These queens are everything.

5pm, Al’s Den, 303 NW 12. Free.

3

Kaj-Anne Pepper! And dynamic DJ duo: Beyondadoubt and Ill Camino. Costumes, photo booths, all the hits.

10pm, Mississippi Studios, 3939 N. Mississippi. $5.

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!) Crush, 1400 SE Morrison.

THIRD THURSDAYS Polari. Troll in for buvare. Back-in-the-day language, music, and elegance. An ease-you-into-the-weekend mixer. Bridge Club boys make the music. Bridge and tunnel patrons have no idea what to do with us when we pour in. 10pm, Vault, 226 NW 12. Free.

THIRD FRIDAYS Ruthless! Eastside deluxe. DJs Ill Camino, Rhienna.

Come welcome new resident deejay Rhienna and listen to the fiercest jams all night long. Keyword: cha cha heels. 10pm, Local Lounge, 3536 NE MLK. $3.

THIRD SATURDAYS Gaycation all you ever wanted. DJ Charming always welcomes special guests. Be early so you can actually get a drink. Sweaty deliciousness, hottest babes. THE party.

9pm, Holocene, 1001 SE Morrison. $3.

FOURTH THURSDAYS Monsteroki. You read it right. Gula Delgatto hosts an evening involving her own special brand of karaoke. Sometimes she decides the song, sometimes you do. (She sings! She dances!) 9pm, Crush, 1412 SE Morrison. $3.

FOURTH SUNDAYS Gender Abundant Square Dance. All-ages goodness. No experience necessary! 7pm, The Village Ballroom, 700 NE Dekum. All ages! $7.

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. Established fun, all night long. 9pm, Local Lounge, 3536 NE MLK. $5.

FOURTH SATURDAYS Blow Pony. Two giant floors. Wide variety of music, plenty of room for dancing. Rowdy, crowdy, sweaty betty. 9pm, Rotture/Branx, 315 SE 3. $5.

Filth: (Formerly Hey Queen!) For the party girls. The more intimate, shoulder-to-shoulder Saturday night choice.

Bruce LaBruiser and special guests. 9pm, Beulahland, 118 NE 28. Free.

LAST THURSDAYS Laid Out, Bridgetown’s newest gay dance party. Seriously, the posters read: “gay dance party.” Deejays Gossip Cat and Pocket Rock-It, with photos by Eric Sellers. 9pm, Holocene, 1001 SE Morrison. $3 after 10pm.

FRIDAY, DEC. 13 & SAT., DECEMBER 14.

MCC Portland’s Jubilee Theater Presents: 5th Quarter Christmas. It’s a Christmas musical— and love story—with a twist. A story about coming out, “Quarter” was written by Portland local Maury Evans, and it includes songs penned

by Mark Brown—who works at MCC in Houston. “Quarter” features Jeremiah Clark in one of the lead roles, as well as Jeremy Abe, who you may or may not know as the foxy gentleman pouring your drinks at the Rainbow Room/ CCs. What else can warm your cold dead heart this holiday season? I am certain the show will have charisma and charm in spades. We’ll have more online soon. For now, save the date. www.mccportland.com.

November-December 2013 • 19

NIGHTLIFE

Whether your holiday travels take you near or far, whether you’re with your family or your chosen one—wherever you are and whoever you’re with, everyone at Brilliant Media wishes you the happiest, most blessed holiday season, filled with everything you set your sights on and as complete as your little heart desires.

(And we remind you to shop local and support our advertisers) 20 • November-December 2013

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CALENDAR

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November-December 2013 • 21

NIGHTLIFE FEATURE

COVER OREGON: PLENTY OF QUESTIONS, GLITCHES, AND REASON FOR OPTIMISM

CAP PHOTO BY IZZY VENTURA/JASON MYERS PHOTO TAKEN AT TESTIFY: A DRAG STORYTELLING REVIVAL

Cascade AIDS Project’s Rob Smith (above left) is among the many dedicated staffers working around the clock to spread the word (and health care) about Cover Oregon. Jason Myers (above right) is among the many Portlanders affected by the imminent changes.

By Andrew Edwards PQ Monthly

As an Oregonian, Jason Myers has never had much trouble managing his HIV. The performance art group director and local coffee shop manager received his HIV diagnosis in 2006 and moved to Portland in 2008, when he enrolled in the Oregon Medical Insurance Pool, which provides insurance to Oregonians who are denied by the private market because of high-risk health conditions. He also qualified for CAREAssist – Oregon’s AIDS Drug Assistance Program – and has been receiving those benefits ever since.

“It’s been really smooth,” said Myers. “I pay $40 a month for my healthcare and everything else is covered.”

But for Myers and the thousands of other Oregonians who are covered through pools such as OMIP, the road to maintaining coverage has hit a few bumps.

A month and a half after its projected launch date, Oregon’s online health insurance exchange – originally touted as a model for state-run implementation of the Affordable Care Act – is not functional and has yet to enroll a single person. And though officials insist that progress is being made, it remains unclear when the website will be up and running.

“We have sent eligibility notices and some enrollment packets, but no one has completed the process as of last week,” Cover Oregon spokesperson Michael Cox told PQ Monthly on Nov. 11.

Despite this fact, the deadline for purchasing plans through Cover Oregon – in order for them to be effective as of Jan. 1 – remains what it has been since the exchange was first unveiled: Dec. 15.

“We are limited in our ability to make changes to the [Dec. 15] date,” said Cox. “[It] was set by the federal government, and any changes to that date would have to come from them.”

People do not have to use Cover Oregon to purchase insurance, but doing so is necessary to qualify for financial assistance through tax subsidies.

Those currently insured through OMIP or the Federal Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP) will be left completely without coverage if they miss the deadline. As 22 • November-December 2013

OMIP’s coverage extends to people diagnosed with HIV/ AIDS, cancer, severe heart disease, diabetes, and more than 70 other high-risk conditions, going without coverage for even a month can spell the difference between life and death.

Gov. John Kitzhaber began urging the public to stop waiting for the Cover Oregon website to be fixed and submit their applications in paper form at the beginning of November.

OMIP members began receiving paper application packets in the mail as early as Nov. 9, as part of a push from the OHA and the Office of Private Health Partnership to get them enrolled as soon as possible and avoid any break in coverage, said Cox. These applications can be downloaded from the website, printed and mailed or faxed in, or submitted in PDFform online. Cover Oregon then has 45 days to process them, determine an applicant’s eligibility for coverage and financial assistance, and send the applicant an enrollment packet with which to select a specific insurance plan.

As long as the packet is returned to Cover Oregon with a postmark of Dec. 15 or earlier, applicants will receive coverage by Jan. 1, said Cox. “We have an army of people who are – as we speak – processing applications,” Kitzhaber told The Oregonian. This army includes more than 400 temporary workers hired by Cover Oregon and the Oregon Health Authority, who are costing nearly $4 million in federal grant money and state funds, in order to process applications more quickly.

“We have received over 13,000 applications so far and are providing the resources necessary to process them,” said Cox. “The new hires will allow us to ensure that every Oregonian who wants health coverage effective January 1, 2014, gets it.”

To that end, many local organizations have also implemented programs to help Oregonians enroll and become acquainted with the new insurance marketplace.

Earlier this year, Cascade AIDS Project received a $340,000 grant from the Oregon Health Authority to help enroll people living with HIV/AIDS and members of the LGBTQ community in Cover Oregon by providing culturally competent outreach and assistance.

CAP, in collaboration with the Multnomah County Health Department, Q Center, and the Partnership Project, is the primary OHA-funded agency focusing on outreach and enrollment among these communities.

Overseeing the efforts is Manager of Client Orientation and Engagement at CAP, Rob Smith, who echoes state officials’ message of urgency.

“The most important thing for people to know is that they need to take action,” said Smith. “In this case, doing nothing could actually really harm you.”

Under the scope of the grant, which secures CAP’s enrollment efforts through June 2014, CAP has increased employment for some part-time staff members and hired two full-time application assisters to focus solely on getting people enrolled, said Smith.

The organization is currently focused on enrolling people with HIV/AIDS (although no one who seeks its assistance will be turned away), the reasons for which are twofold, according to Smith.

The first is meeting the Dec. 15 deadline and avoiding coverage lapses. To that end, Cover Oregon allows application assisters at CAP to note applications from individuals enrolled in OMIP or PCIP, which the exchange will process first, said Smith. The second has to do with educating people with HIV/AIDS about which insurance plans would be best and worst in terms of costs and benefits.

For example, individuals receiving benefits through CAREAssist, such as assistance paying for insurance premiums, doctor visit copays, and medication copays, must select a silver tier plan through Cover Oregon, as CAREAssist will not approve benefits under plans from any other level.

“As part of our contract we can’t tell someone, ‘You should pick this plan,’ but what we are allowed to do is present all of the options and say, ‘In your situation, this plan might be best,’” said Smith.

The organization is also working alongside HIV-service providers across the state, such as HIV Alliance in Eugene and the Eastern Oregon Center for Independent Living in Ontario, Ore., to reach as many people as possible.

“It’s confusing, and it’s scary, and it’s weird, and that’s COVER OREGON page 29

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ARTS & CULTURE FEATURES

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ARTS & CULTURE

THE HOME FRONT “HEY, HOW IS THE MARKET?”

By Steve Strode PQ Monthly

It’s the question always asked at a cocktail party, when one learns there’s a realtor in their midst. People are used to hearing daily news on the macro-level—national foreclosure rates, price appreciation, inventory shortages. But what they really want to know is: How are things in their neighborhood? So now my standard response is, “Where do you live?” While that’s sometimes interpreted as a pick up line, it’s a completely necessary question.

Nothing is more local than real estate.

Chiefly, it’s how we build community—one block at a time. Coming out of the recession, the majority of foreclosures were confined to a handful of states. But we still felt collectively paralyzed—that it was doom and gloom everywhere. And then we noticed.

Places like Portland were starting to do okay; then later, doing well.

As I’m writing this article, I’m sitting in a hotel lobby in San Francisco, about to attend a Symposium on Sustainable Development. The program reads, “Sustainable development begins from the ground up.

The first step is to change the way we think.”

And I smile, knowing that what we live and breathe in Portland is not quirky or weird.

It’s the future, but we’ve been experiencing it for years.

The National Association of Realtors just published survey results entitled, “Neighborhood Preferences are Changing,” which provides further support that Portland is getting it right—in the big picture. Sixty percent of respondents want a mix of housing, shops and services that are walkable. The majority responded they would give up a larger yard or would buy a smaller home if they could have a shorter commute. Seventy-eight percent said the neighborhood is more important than the house size. Having access to different types of transportation modes also rank very highly.

And what we’re seeing are buyers and renters willing to walk the talk. In major cities everywhere, Millennials are leading the charge. They are trading the car-dependent suburban culture they grew up in, exchanging them for an urban lifestyle, choosing micro-apartments of 400 square feet or less. The apartment is a place to sleep; the neighborhood and its amenities have become the living room.

These trends are playing out daily with buyers and colleagues I know. Professionally-marketed homes in close-in Portland are getting offers soon after hitting the market—

often multiple ones.

We’re seeing hot building trends in Portland, too. For example, every vacant lot along Southeast Division appears to be an apartment construction zone. A few builders are selling their formulaic “McInfill” homes on every available lot (I’m trying to coin that term as an urban version of “McMansion”—you read it here first). We all have friends desperately seeking an apartment, or know first-time buyers competing for homes.

All is not perfect. Re-development and new urban development is often viewed as a zero-sum game. The LGBT community is often associated with gentrification. We’ve moved into areas that have been maligned by the majority, renovated homes, and created vibrant neighborhoods. But these same neighborhoods have also been home to other groups for generations—and they often reach a tipping point where it becomes too costly for long-term residents to remain.

In the nationwide public radio show “State of the Re:Union,” host Al Letson featured Portland, discussed the North Williams corridor and interviewed African-American residents who have experienced the changes. In an only-in-Portland fashion, it was the bike lane proposals that helped bring racial issues to the surface, but also brought an opportunity for dialogue. Imagine being a multi-generational black resident, getting frequent calls to sell your house. You see this as your family’s neighborhood—and while the white callers meant no harm, they are not realizing that same call has been received dozens of times previously. (Disclaimer: as a realtor I am not suggesting “black” and “white” neighborhoods, but sharing an anecdote from Letson’s program.) As affordability has waned, we see various population shifts. And unfortunately, the same things that people like best about living close-in are not yet prevalent in neighborhoods on the periphery.

Children have lost their sidewalks. Commute times are longer.

Local community is built through local involvement, and as someone on that radio show quipped, “If you don’t have a seat at the table, you don’t get fed.” Engagement has to be at the neighborhood level. If surveys indicate that we want walkable neighborhoods, this cannot be tied to income. On the whole, we’re getting it right in Portland and we’re well-poised for the future. But to create a sustainable model for all, we have to create that same sense of “local” in all Portland neighborhoods.

Steve Strode is a realtor in the Portland metro area, and co-founder of rEqual - an LGBT housing and advocacy organization. Steve is also President of Portland Frontrunners. He can be reached at steve@sagepacificliving.com pqmonthly.com

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

503.228.3139 PQMONTHLY.COM November-December 2013 • 25

FILM NEWS

A DAY TO REMEMBER AND ACT UP: WORLD AIDS DAY World AIDS Day isn’t simply a random date picked to “remember” the struggle against HIV/ AIDS. It’s a day set aside for activism, to raise awareness — a day of service, if you will. WAD aims to honor those who’ve come before us while blazing a trail towards a cure, remembering the great many we’ve lost along the way — and all the people affected by HIV/AIDS today.

Since its incarnation in 1987, World AIDS Day has grown into a behemoth of activism.

(Note: In 2007, when White House officials began marking WAD with a giant red ribbon on the North Portico — now an annual tradition — it was the first time since Abraham Lincoln that a prominent sign or banner was on display at the White House.) Locally, there are plenty of events in which you can participate: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30 CAP Archives will be displayed at SMYRC — 2406 NE Sandy Blvd. #100. The pieces displayed will highlight the past and present of HIV youth activism. Special guest, Patrick Ingram, nationally recognized youth activist from Fredericksburg, will be on hand.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1 Sharing Bread, Hope, Life: World AIDS Day 2013. Join Q Center for a community observance of WAD. Through symbol, song, and story, share in the spirit of life and be strengthened by the message of hope. Pause to honor and support those living with HIV/AIDS and remember those we’ve lost. Community observance hosted by Q Center in partnership with Metropolitan Community Church and the Community of Welcoming Congregations. 4pm, Q Center, 4115 N Mississippi.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 2 Cascade AIDS Project will host a panel discussion on HIV Activism: Past and Future at the Fez — 316 SW 11th Ave. The panel will feature experts linking social, political and cultural aspects of HIV, as well as some new voices sharing the latest work being done today.

Join CAP for an evening of knowledge, awareness and inspirational dialogue. The panel: Vaughn Frick is a legendary artist and leader whose iconic comic illustrations helped tell the story of HIV/AIDS. As Art Director of the San Francisco Sentinel newspaper during early 1980s, and later as a cartoonist for Seattle Gay News, Vaughn has been instrumental in creating media for ACT-UP Portland and other political causes.

Kathy Oliver — the Executive Director of Outside In — has been transforming lives for decades. Kathy has worked to strengthen and develop programs that offer housing, employment, and support services to homeless youth — and she was pivotal in the creation of Portland’s first syringe exchange that has continued to successfully reduce the risk of HIV/AIDS transmission in the metro area since its inception in 1989.

26 • November-December 2013

Jack Cox is a long time HIV/AIDS survivor, activist and community organizer. Jack has been on the front lines of HIV/AIDS policy making and funding allocation since the beginning. He is lovingly considered Portland’s HIV firebrand — always speaking truth for those most in need.

For over 35 years Jack has been the Managing Director of the Community Information Center and serves as the treasurer of the Imani Project, a grassroots community based HIV prevention NGO in Kenya.

ist and cartoonist, and ACT UP propaganda. 9am-5pm.

Tricia McClendon’s journey from being known as the “Condom Lady” to “Minister” has been interesting — to say the least. She has been doing HIV work in communities of color since the early 1990s, earning a Masters of Divinity along the way, giving Tricia a unique perspective as a HIV activist.

United in Anger (Friday, 7pm). A history of ACT UP — the birth and life of the AIDS activist movement from the perspectives of people in the trenches, fighting the epidemic.

Patrick Ingram is a gay African-American male who’s lived with HIV since December 1, 2011. Through his work with the Northern Virginia Gay Men’s Health Collaborative and the Fredericksburg Area HIV/AIDS Support Services (FAHASS), Patrick is a leader in empowering youth and people of color to know their HIV status. In 2013, Patrick was recognized as a Youth Scholar by the National Minority AIDS Council.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5 CAP Archives will be displayed at The Multnomah Building, 501 SE Hawthorne Blvd, for one day only.

Pieces included those from Vaughn Frick, HIV activ-

First Thursday art viewing at Pivot, 6pm-9pm. Featured artist: Vaughn Frick. 209 SW 4th.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6 THROUGH SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8 The Clinton Street Theater (2522 SE Clinton) will be featuring HIV-themed films in recognition of WAD. Proceeds go to CAP.

Tales of the Night Fairies (Saturday, 7pm): Five sex workers— four women and one man — along with the filmmaker embark on a storytelling extravaganza. This film explores the power of collective organizing and resistance while reflecting on contemporary debates surrounding sex work.

Miss HIV (Sunday, 3:30pm): “Miss” explores the international collision of HIV/AIDS policies while following the journey of two HIV-positive women who enter a pageant in Botswana. What’s happening there — where half of all pregnant women are HIV-positive — is contrasted with the past successes in Uganda, which has experienced one of the largest reductions in HIV ever recorded.

Rent (Sunday, 7pm). The greatest musical in the history of the world! OK, perhaps an exaggeration — but what queer growing up — especially in the 90s — wasn’t glued to this musical? This revolutionary rock opera tells the story of a group of bohemians in the gritty East Village. These starving artists yearn for success and acceptance while dealing with poverty, illness, and AIDS. As always, thank you to those who dedicate their lives, day in and day out, to service. You inspire your community.

--Daniel Borgen pqmonthly.com

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November-December 2013 • 27

BOOKS

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MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT

DANA GOLDBERG DISHES TO PQ: “IT TOOK A WHILE FOR THE LADY PARTS TO RECOVER”

By Belinda Carroll PQ Monthly

Dana Goldberg spills the comedic beans to PQ’s own Belinda Carroll. Hint: don’t miss her show if you can at all help it.

Dana Goldberg has long been an inspiration of mine. When I was a wee baby comic in Austin, Texas, I, along with my merry band of comics (Holly Lorka and Allie Rolison), tried to attend every Dana Goldberg show. She’s been named one of the top lesbian comics around by Curve Magazine, has her own LOGO special, and produces Southwest FunnyFest — a comedy festival that also raises money for HIV/AIDS research. On top of this, she works with HRC while touring the country relentlessly. I often wonder when she sleeps.

Now, she’s coming to Portland. We have worked together several times, and I always love every minute. I recently got to sit down and have a chat with her, comic-to-comic — we talked stand-up comedy, activism, and how she keeps her hair from looking like a “Good Luck Troll Doll.”

Belinda Carroll: The first time we met was in Austin, Texas. Do you remember? It was that crappy gig on the rooftop bar, with that opener who had never done comedy.

Dana Goldberg: I do remember that night. I felt like I was giving a speech to the cavalry. We were like forty feet above the audience. I think I got a nose bleed during that show from the altitude.

BC: I was about 4 months into comedy and said, “Someday I will work with her!” Who do you dream of opening for?

DG: I know you give me a hard time about this, but I’ve said it once, I’ll say it a thousand times. I want to work with Wanda Sykes. It’s rare that a comic makes me buckle over with laughter. She does.

BC: I want you to work with Wanda so I can meet her. How do you keep your hair both curly and non-frizzy? Did you sell your soul to the devil?

DG: If by the devil you mean a blow dryer and a diffuser ? Then yes. I usually use some kind of curl cream and then diffuse it. If I let it dry naturally it’s horrible...like Good Luck Troll Horrible. I got lucky with my Jew-fro. It’s pretty manageable most days.

BC: If you could have anyone on speed dial to give you advice about anything, who would it be and why?

DG: See, now that’s a great question. I would have myself in 40 years on speed dial.

That way I could be giving advice to myself like “take that gig, ask for more money, run that extra mile, don’t eat that, don’t date her (those last two weren’t related to each other).”

COVER OREGON Continued from page 22

why we’re here – to answer your questions,” said Smith. “If you don’t know what to do, all it takes is a phone call and someone will be able to help you get the process started.”

In addition, CAP was contracted by the OHA to help develop culturally representative outreach materials for Cover Oregon so that the LGBTQ community sees itself reflected in advertising and marketing materials, Smith told PQ. This issue is especially relevant among communities who face discrimination from the health coverage system because of preexisting conditions, such as those living with HIV/AIDS and the transgender community, said Jaxon Mitchell, an HIV Prevention Specialist at CAP who is working with a Care Oregon subgroup as part of the effort.

“Every community is going to have different questions about how this affects them and the way that their healthcare intersects with their identity,” said Mitchell. “We’ve got to try to find as many answers to those questions as we can pqmonthly.com

BC: I know you’ve done TV on occasion, what’s one gig you’d love to land either writing or acting?

DG: I would love to have a recurring role on “Modern Family.” I think the writing is incredible. I also wouldn’t mind a couple of guest appearances on “Orange Is the New Black.” I could totally make someone my prison bitch. And I almost kept a straight face when I said that.

BC: You’ve done a lot of work for the LGBTQ community over the years. One thing I recall is the LA to SF ride to raise money for HIV/AIDS — mostly because I’m horribly lazy, so it’s like you flew over buildings and fought crime. What’s your favorite project ever?

DG: The AIDS ride was amazing. It’s a long time on a bike though. Took a little while for the lady parts to recover. I do a ton of work with the Human Rights Campaign. I think some of those dinners have been my favorite moments as an “activist.” I get to share the stage with some incredible people. Of course, I’m also a little biased toward the Southwest FunnyFest Show that I produce in Albuquerque every year. It’s raised over $20,000 for New Mexico AIDS Services — the local AIDS foundation in my hometown.

It’s interesting, Belinda, because I have these incredible moments at each function where someone comes up to me and tells me what a horrible time they are going through, how they have had a horrible week, and I made them laugh for the first time in a long time.

It’s all worth it in that moment. All of it.

BC: You’re incredibly optimistic and positive. How do you maintain that attitude in a cynical business?

DG: I drink a lot. (I’m kidding.) Maybe that’s how I do keep a positive attitude — I barely drink.

But I love that you said that. This is the thing — I’m doing what I love and making a living doing it. It doesn’t have to be hard. Sometimes it’s tiring to continue to find the internal motivation to keep the hustle and keep creating work. It’s not like we have a 9 to 5 and we get a paycheck every two weeks. Our success depends on everything we do and everything we don’t do. People make life harder than it needs to be. I get paid to make people laugh for fuck’s sake. How could I possibly get cynical about that?

BC: Where do you see yourself in 40 years?

DG: Well, the large amount of grey hair I have will probably have completely taken over. I will have most likely lost a half an inch in height by then, but hopefully I still have all my teeth. One thing I love about our industry is that we don’t often “age out” like some actresses do. Comedy is constant evolution — and with life experience comes more material. I plan on doing this until I no longer find joy in it. I imagine by then, I’ll be a writer on some show that you don’t actually watch on TV, it just shows up as a hologram in your living room. But I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again — I won’t ever stop performing live.

It’s my drug of choice and I have no intentions of interventions or recovery.

BC: When are you taking me on the road with you?

DG: As soon as I make enough money to pay us both.

Dana plays the Funhouse Lounge Friday, November 22 at 7:30pm. Ms. Carroll opens.

Get tickets here: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/501755

up front, so that people aren’t operating from a place of fear.”

Trans individuals in particular are underrepresented in healthcare and insurance spheres, Mitchell said, and have suffered historic neglect from the system, resulting in distrust among the trans community.

“With the trans community there aren’t the same specific programs that help support people in navigating the system, or with the financial assistance that the HIV-positive community has,” said Mitchell.

The ACA states that being trans is no longer a preexisting condition, which Mitchell believes will go a long way in removing barriers to health care access. As far as improving the quality of healthcare trans people receive, however, Mitchell is less sure of the new system’s impact. And the system is far from flawless.

For example, with the ACA expanding Medicaid (known here as the Oregon Health Plan) to cover people who earn up to 138% of the poverty line, many trans people, who are historically underemployed and more likely to live in poverty, will be eligible for the OHP. This will cover puberty delay for trans and gender-non-conforming young people as well as mental health services, said Mitchell, but it will not cover hormone treatment, surgeries, or many other

vital health services for trans individuals.

“That’s the thing about creating a system that’s supposed to address the unique needs of every single human being – there’s always going to be some sort of incompatibility or oversight,” said Mitchell.

Logan Lynn, Public Relations and Innovations Manager at Q Center – also an OHA outreach grant recipient – makes a similar point. “There is still much work to do when it comes to reforming healthcare itself,” said Lynn. “But we are encouraging LGBTQ people to sign up and work with us to change the system from the inside.”

Despite the glitches and dysfunctions, many LGBTQ Oregonians – those like Myers, Smith, and Mitchell – remain optimistic about what’s to come.

“Things like the online portal not working are growing pains,” said Mitchell. “In the long run it’s going to be better for the health of everybody, but in the moment it hurts a little.”

To Myers, those growing pains are just par for the course.

“I feel like I’m in a better position than a lot of my uninsured, healthy friends, so I’m not that worried about it,” he said. “I’m sure there will be bureaucratic bumps in the road – probably for the next couple years. But I think I’ll be OK.” November-December 2013 • 29

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ID CHECK OUT OF THE FOG

By Leela Ginelle PQ Monthly

My adolescence feels like a series of haunted memories. I don’t trust the emotions I used to associate with events, places, or relationships from that time.

Prior to recovering the memories of my incest experience and transitioning, I struggled with understanding why I’d felt so ashamed and inadequate during that period.

These past few years, I’ve felt too flooded with grief and rage to even consider that time.

I don’t know how to make sense of my early life, really. I was raised in an unsafe environment, and misgendered. Each day I awoke, and somehow convinced myself my family was made up of loving people who weren’t harming me, blocking out any contrary evidence, and spent great amounts of energy hiding the fact that I wanted to live as a girl, because I feared the social ostracism and physical harm I was sure would follow if anyone knew.

At night I would fantasize about living the life I wanted. I hoped the desires would go away, because I believed they were a product of some malady of mine, not knowing, and having no way to know, that they were the byproduct of my culture’s larger malady regarding gender.

I can’t look at male assigned adolescents today without projecting depression onto them. Conforming to male gender norms felt like some terrible job I was stuck with.

My depression went completely unrecognized in my home. Denial was ubiquitous.

What would I see if I could go back and be a fly on the wall there? Would it look like the depressing, unhappy, safe place I willed myself to believe I resided in, or the nightmarish site of the abuse I survived? Racism, pornography, liquor, and violence made up the pollution emitted by my father, which I endured, fought, and blocked out.

Family, and its associate meanings: security, nurturance, loyalty, and unconditional love, is a concept I’ve slowly weaned myself from, as its mention triggers images more consistent with Abu Ghraib to my mind than any I’ve seen or heard of in our culture.

Thus when, on occasion, I indulge in imagining some alternate adolescence, in which transitioning might have been permitted, and I consider my parents’ reaction, my thoughts evaporate.

Adolescence again? Relive a captivity I only narrowly survived, and that my adulthood, in part, has been a long, harrowing recovery from? The opportunity to have experienced a puberty congruent with my gender identity seems too perilous, as it means casting myself back to a place where even my hyper-vig-

ilance could not protect me, as, in my easily triggered mind, I often feel it does today.

I still begrudge the losses, though, of an abuse-free childhood, and a gender aligned development.

Nothing I do today changes that history. I was born to the people I was born to, and arrived into a culture of monolithic transphobia, and those facts have to do with me, only in that they’ve helped me find my way to where I am now.

Revisiting these subjects, and letting myself acknowledge that I was a victim, is a cleansing exercise. That time of living in concentric fields of denial, consciously and unconsciously separated from my own experience and desires, has shadowed me, casting doubt on decisions and beliefs, and danger onto everything I saw.

Denial of that kind warps life like a funhouse mirror. Outcomes of incest read like attempts to recreate the experience of inexplicably doomed confusion: addiction, eating disorders, self-mutilation.

Similarly, being closeted creates a sense of life’s requiring a password one lacks, as the energy one spends withholding some component of their identity, and the shame and self-loathing it produces, leaves one convinced they’re defective, and unable to achieve the “normalcy” that inspired the forced closeting by their guardians and culture.

Living honestly has meant slowly experiencing the secrets I’d repressed. It’s hard to fathom the pain I carried throughout adolescence, which grew daily, until at some point I found ways to temporarily suppress feelings altogether.

It was a corrupt dictatorship, where one never learns to voice rights, because there’s no space. Pre-Internet, there was no information regarding gender, aside from the most biased, derogatory stereotypes about deviance and mental illness.

Emerging from that domestic gulag into a liberal university was shocking. I imbibed anything that struck me as different from what I’d experienced before, but had no tools to address what had happened to me. The instructions to never speak about those crimes, and the threats of what would happen if I did, were like a lock on some forbidden door it would take me years and years to open.

Until I did, the world felt like the haunted home of my youth. Letting my secrets out, and believing myself meant chasing my ghosts away, so that now the world just feels like home.

Leela Ginelle is a playwright and journalist living in Portland, OR. You can write her at leela@pqmonthly.com.

30 • November-December 2013

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November-December 2013 • 31

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ABSOLUTELY TERRIBLE DATING ADVICE

By Nick Mattos

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PQ Monthly

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1) Dating: it’s all about you! Get rid of any idea that the other person or their feelings are real. Remember that what you’re really looking for isn’t a person — it’s the cessation of loneliness, some social status, a warm body.

2) Online dating is perfect for people who like video games but wish that Legend of Zelda included some sort of sexual prize at the end. Make sure that your photos are at least five years old; some social researchers assert that the newest trend in online dating profiles will be using only baby photos and natal sonograms.

3) During World War I, the U.S. Navy and British Admiralty extensively utilized a technique called dazzle camouflage on their ships. Unlike most forms of camouflage, the bold geometric shapes and contrasting colors of dazzle doesn’t work by offering concealment; instead, it makes the ship both highly visible and disorienting, preventing the enemy from understanding the true size, nature, or movement of the vessel. Dating tip: dazzle camouflage.

4) Fuck yeah, you’re on a date now! Make sure that you absolutely do not ask your date any questions about them — this is your time to get terribly nervous and cover it up by chattering endlessly about yourself.

If you do make the mistake of asking them a question about themself, make a quick save and interrupt them with what you’d say if posed with the same question.

5) Now that you’ve actually ensnared a body into your web, it’s time to start telling your friends about them. In order to ensure that your friends stay firmly in your allegiance, make sure that you only tell your friends the very worst things about your suitor. Do they have financial problems? Have they ever been in a cult? Odd body peculiarities? Talk too much on dates?

There’s no oversharing when it comes to other people’s information! Expert level: make up a nickname for them that your friends can cackle over forever. Good luck, Stare Bear!

6) Getting serious? Ready to meet the parents for the first time? Do a bunch of mescaline early in the morning beforehand. Nothing conveys “marriage material” quite like anxiously grinding your

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teeth in an effort not to scream.

7) Remember: dating is all about you!

Feeling like the spark isn’t quite there? Getting anxious to stop cheating on your partner all the time? Dump that shit! A few great situations for your breakup talk: out on a picnic that your significant other made for you. In a very public place immediately after they just got a terrible haircut. Over the phone while they’re on the other side of the country in the middle of an intense and emotionally-taxing professional training. Or, even better, just stop returning their calls.

8) Been single for a while? Try putting it all out there! Make yourself a fixture on dating sites everywhere — don’t forget ChristianMingle and FarmersOnly.com.

Advanced level: start writing a blog or newspaper column in which you portray your life as an attention-whoring phantasmagoria of theatrical depression and misery.

Chicks dig it!

9) Having a hard time dating? Give the fuck up! Fill your cupboards with canned soups and procure yourself a cat or ten. Get very, very into Netflix, feverish no-strings-attached promiscuity, and eating Nutella out of the jar with a spoon. If you’re lonely, join a cult — if you do decide to start dating again someday, it’ll give your future dates something to tell their friends about!

10) This is the only serious advice in this entire column: love serves as a reminder that, far beyond the tawdry selfishness of our own story, a much larger story is playing out — one that every so often calls us out of our limited lives and into an awareness that is incomparably grand, vast, and beautiful in comparison. Love happens on its own schedule. It laughs at our plans and schemes to force it into our boundaries, and is strong enough to shatter each and every one of those boundaries. Love is a miracle, yes, but it is only one of an infinite number of miracles that we get to enjoy every single day of our lives. Even if it seems absurdly far away, take the risk of believing in love.

It’s worth it.

11) Get back on that damn horse. Get back out there and talk anxiously about yourself, share outdated photos, stock up on mescaline and canned soup, get rejected and reject and laugh bitterly with your friends about how bad you are at dating.

And never, ever forget: dazzle camouflage.

Seriously, it works.

Nick Mattos really, really hopes that you learn from his countless mistakes. Tell him your own hard-won terrible advice at nick@pqmonthly.com Nickdating Mattos can be reached at nick@pqmonthly.com.

32 • November-December 2013

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PERSPECTIVES

OUR NEW COASTAL CORRESPONDENT WELCOMES YOU INTO HIS BOSOM dance floor surrounded by jail bars. My arms opened wise as I danced to “Been Around the World” (Lisa Stansfield) — I was finally home!

I still felt dirty, being turned on by men in skin-tight Levi’s and leather vests, but I was more than willing to explore… and explore I did.

Fast forward 20 years, and I’m living in Astoria again, my fourth-time home to nest after a few rounds in Manhattan, Eugene, and some commuting between Portland and Astoria in between.

I have recently launched my Dragalution . I am spreading my love and my word, art, dance, and spirit and am asking people to join Astoria’s Marco Davis loves you and Portland; and he wants you to love Astoria as much as he does. me in celebration of being.

My mantra: “I am.” Each

By Marco Davis day, I step one step beyond my comfort zone, trying PQ Monthly to continually expand my sphere of influence.

I live in Astoria — Oregon’s favorite neighborhood. I’ve My friends Nicholas, Jason, Andrew, and Adam came to had a long distance relationship with Portland since the Astoria for the August performance of Dragalution. Jason late 80s, when friends and I would drive up on weekends and I really get each other; we feel the soul of the moment; to go to the Confetti Club. We’d dance in front of mirrors, the necessity to share our stories through artistic expressmoke clove cigarettes, ignore everyone, but secretly beg sion. Jason, who heads Home Theatre System, invited to be noticed. We felt like such small town bad-asses, with my alter ego (and art in flesh), Daylight Cums, to perour party lives in Portland, escaping the redneck yells and form in Portland for Testify. This was a huge honor for lack of goings-on. Well, there was the Pig-n-Pancake (open me and it made me tremble to my core. Daylight Cums 24 hours back then), and “cruising the gut” in Seaside. We, would make her Portland debut, and I had to make a dress! however, craved excitement, smoke machines, lasers — I never thought my art would manifest as drag, but I am so pleased it has. Daylight has brought me balance. She has and some New Order, please.

In 1990, I moved to Portland, nervous but ready to fly. taught me to look at myself differently and to be able to see I was still in the closet, but after discovering my brother’s beauty within my soul. I have never been one with much collection of gay porn, I felt my closet doors begin to shake. self-esteem, but I’ve done a lot of theater and I learned to My first night in Portland, I met my brother at his then-very- play the role of secure and confident. I’ve fooled myself the trendy apartment on NW Glisan and 22nd. He said we were longest. Daylight took that away from me. Those six inch going out and he took me to Boxxes and the Brig (before heels grounded me in ways I never imagined. When I first the remodel). It was our coming out to each other moment, stood in her shoes, my world stopped spinning. My path and it was official. I met his boyfriend, and I found the was clear and the songs strong within my soul.

I never know what will happen when Daylight ascends.

It’s always a bit different and her fragrance gets sweeter the wider she opens up. For her Portland debut, I got ready at Nicholas’ sexy apartment and we drove away in a car2go — it was a hilarious scene, drag queen in a tiny clown car.

I stopped by Ken’s Artisan Pizza to say “hey” to friends — I let everyone drink me in and fluttered back to my tiny vehicle. Next stop, Hotel 50 to visit my favorite bar wench (she prefers that term to mixologist), Margaux.

After a nerves drink, we headed to Floyd’s for Testify. I love arriving early to things. I enjoy the pre-show charge in the air and I love seeing people anxious to be carried away by a show. I met so many wonderful people and saw so much beauty. I didn’t know what to expect. I totally wasn’t prepared to see my Astoria friends, who now live in Portland, in the audience. That got me emotional and I was already very emotional. There was so much love in that space.

Standing in front of you all, I had to take a moment. I wasn’t sure I would have speech. I had an inkling I wanted to share my soul with you; I wanted to let my spirit shine for you and speak my heart song. However, I never know if I open my mouth if it’s going to be words or vomit that comes out. Know what I mean?

So I stood there and I felt no fear. I opened my mouth and I spoke and performed one of my songs for you on top of trembling legs. I was so complete in that moment with you that tears ran down my bake-a-cake cheeks. I seriously had the most blissful, sensual, and publicly open orgasms in my life. My legs are still trembling. I want this relationship to grow — let’s spend time together. I’ll plan things in Astoria, you plan things here, we will plan things together, and let’s kick up our heels and rubber boots. Thank you for such a lovely time in your city.

If you are ever on the coast, I cook Sunday days at the Columbian Café. If you want to follow Daylight, she has a page: www.daylightcums.com. The winter is a busy time for us on the Coast—I’m part of the Astoria Arts and Movement Center and we have themed monthly dance parties. Friday, November 29 is our sci-fi/disco dance night. The Voodoo Room always has a kick-ass New Year’s Eve party with hot, sexy local bands. Then, of course, January 25 marks the return of Dragulation, an all-new show you won’t want to miss. We may be a small town, but we always have a party going. Come play with us.

Until next time. Peace.

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November-December 2013 • 33

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SEE AND BE SEEN

GOOD LIFE SEETHE AND BE SEEN

We want to see more of you! Do you have photos you’d like to share in the pages of PQ Monthly? Send your photos along with a photo credit and caption to info@pqmonthly.com, post them on our Facebook page, or tag PQ Monthly in them.

Featured: PQ October Press Party (and Julie Cortez’s Farewell!), Gula’s House of Whores!, Q Center’s Inaugural Q Sports Celebration, and Wicked Awesome.

Photos by; Jules Garza, Sammi Rivera, & Melanie Davis

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November-December 2013 • 35

THE GOOD LIFE

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GAY MEN’S CHORUS, PEACOCK LANE, BEER, AND… fences, haphazardly erected cordons, barriers, and makeshift enclosures meandering through the entire space of Disjecta’s main gallery, Horvat’s installation will investigate gestures and strategies of partitioning and demarcating of physical space, constructing multiple “temporary territories” within the confines of these provisional, improvised spatial divisions. A free public reception celebrates the unveiling of the installation on December 7 from 6 to 10 PM; for more information and hours, go to Disjecta.org.

The Portland Gay Men’s Chorus consistently does it right, especially when it comes to the holidays — precisely why the PGMC Holiday Show has become one of Portland’s most cherished musical December traditions.

The golden-voiced boys will bring the beauty, pageantry, humor, and goodwill of the season as they sing and dance their way into your hearts with musical selections drawn from the wide array of holidays celebrated during the wintertime. Shows run from December 5 through 7 at the Newmark Theatre (1111 SW Broadway, Portland), with all shows starting at 8 PM. Tickets range from $15 to $45 and will almost definitely sell out — so head over to PDXGMC.org and get your tickets right this moment.

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Award-winning multidisciplinary artist and “art porn auteur” Andrew Klaus presents Nocturnes, a show of recent surrealist erotic works, at Catalyst Art & Cultural Space (4810 NE Garfield, Portland). Showcasing provocative, adults-only work from 2010-2013, Klaus’ work mixes surrealism, suspense, unease and erotica — perfect for kicking off the long, dark nights of winter. The show hangs through November 24; for more information and hours, check out CatalystCulturalSpace.com It doesn’t get much gayer than the Village People. For the last 36 years, the ensemble has served as the sly voice of semi-covert homosexuality with pop hits like “In the Navy,” “YMCA,” “Macho Man,” and most recently last summer’s “Let’s Go Back to the Dance Floor.” They’re certain to bring the fun at their show at the Crystal Ballroom (1332 W Burnside) on November 30 — don’t forget to bring your own poppers. Doors open at 7, show at 8; tickets are $35 in advance and $40 at the door. For more information and tickets, visit CrystalBallroomPDX.com.

BEER, BEER, BEEEEEEEER! Now that we have your attention: the Holiday Ale Festival showcases the best in barleywines, spiced ales, and winter warmers. Wrap yourself up in scarves and furs and head to Portland’s Pioneer Courthouse Square from December 4 through 7 to enjoy some of the biggest, boldest, oddest, most transcendent beers from top-tier breweries from far and wide. $30 gets you in the door with ten drink tickets and a souvenir mug to serve as a mnemonic device to help you remember what you did during the festival after you drink those ten beers.

For more information and tickets, visit HolidayAle.com.

London- and New York-based artist Vlatka Horvat presents an ambitious new installation created on site, shown in a dialogue with new works on paper, at Disjecta Contemporary Art Center of Portland (8371 N Interstate, Portland) from December 7 through January 12. Using a set of materials and objects to create a series of overlapping

Like your modern dance with a heavy sprinkle of pop culture? Water in the Desert presents ‘American Me’ — an absurdist butoh ensemble performance taking a hard, hilarious look at the underbelly of American culture. American Me intermingles dark comedy dance-theatre with moments of sincerity, nostalgia, and commercial breaks; in the process, the ensemble explores issues of gender and class inequality, gay rights, religion, freedom, and the overall breakdown of the American Dream.

Shows run on December 6, 7, 13, and 14 at 8 PM, with an additional 6 PM show on December 14, at the Headwaters Theatre (55 NE Farragut #9, Portland). Admission ranges from $12 to $20; for more info and tickets, visit WITD.org.

If you’ve never experienced the spectacle of Peacock Lane, you’re missing out on a key Portland tradition. Since the 1920’s, residents of SE Peacock Lane have dressed up their Tudor-style houses in full Christmas regalia; over the years, the street’s residents have elevated the decorations to the level of high folk art, causing folks from all over to come walk and gawk in the display. It’s rather Dickensian — wealthy Portlanders showing off their affluence to folks riding about in horse-drawn carriages — but that’s precisely why you should check it out. Light displays run from 6 PM to late from December 15 through 31; Peacock Lane runs one block east of SE Cesar Chavez Boulevard between SE Stark and Belmont streets.

You’re going to need to buy presents anyway, so why not support local artisans and show your recipients the best crafts that Portland has to offer? The Crafty Wonderland Super Colossal Holiday Sale is the perfect way to kill all those birds with a single (charmingly hand-painted) stone.

Over 250 craftspeople will take over the Oregon Convention Center (777 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Portland) on December 14 and 15 to sell their handmade wares, from clothing to jewelry to house wares. Bringing the star power, popular artist Nikki McClure will be present signing books and calendars from noon to 2 PM on December 15. Best of all, it’s free! For more info, visit CraftyWonderland.com.

--Nick Mattos

pqmonthly.com

THE FUN STUFF

CULTIVATING LIFE PURPLE ELBOWS HOMEMADE HOLIDAYS

By LeAnn Locher

http://www.wikihow.com/Make-Kahlua For someone who could use a little self care: You know that expensive sugar scrub The week before everyone loves because it leaves your skin Halloween we saw extra silky smooth? Secret is, it’s only four our first Christ- ingredients and you can make it yourself. m a s c o m m e r - Scented with vanilla and honey, it smells cial on TV. Holi- as delicious as it feels on winter worn skin. day gift giving dishttp://chickensintheroad.com/house/ plays showed up in crafts/make-your-own-brown-sugarsome stores in Sep- scrub/ tember. Reports of Rock a faux hawk: Homemade hair day-of Thanksgiv- pomade is doable in your own kitchen, easy ing sales, formerly peasy. Poured into small mason jars or tins, known as the day-after-Thanksgiving sales, they’re easy to mail. are making the news. All the while we roll http://www.thehippyhomemaker.com/ our eyes and lament the hype of it all. diy-all-natural-hair-styling-pomade-thatHere’s a thought: Skip the commercial- rocks/ ism of the holidays and give gifts you make For a sweet tooth: Get your hands on yourself. Anyone can buy a gift, but a gift of some local honey at a farmers market and your time to craft an item is really special. make some honey caramels without any refined sugars. Sweet and smooth, you could easily make these with all local ingredients. http://www.naturalswe e t re c i p e s. c o m / h o n ey-caramels/ Support the gayby-boom. Is it just me or are we in the middle of a gayby boom? Babies everywhere!

Help out new parents not by asking what you can do, but by just doing it. Delivering a homemade meal or a coupon for a few hours of babysitting could be the Homemade gifts can be the best gifts to make and to receive. Photo by LeAnn Locher best gift of the year.

Self publish a cookbook Turn on some holiday music, invite some of your favorite recipes: Maybe you’ve been friends over, don your favorite gay apparel doing a lot of cooking experimentation or and spend a day crafting. It’s quite likely are the recipient of Grandma’s recipe cards. your homemade gift will be the favorite gift Put them all into a beautiful recipe book you received this year. can design online with TasteBook. The end Here are some ideas to get you started. product is gorgeous, professional and may For full instructions and recipes, visit the even bring mom to tears with pride. Hop to online version of this article at pqmonthly. it though: last day to order for the holidays com for links. is December 12th.

For salad lovers and cooks: Vinegars http://www.tastebook.com/ infused with herbs can take it up a notch It’s the holidays, it’s time for fudge: I when it comes to salad making. They’re easy asked readers on Facebook their favorto make and look beautiful to give. ite homemade gifts. Answers ranged from http://www.lelonopo.com/2008/09/ homemade lip balm with wax from their infusing-vinegar-getting-in-touch-with. honeybees to spicy hot cocoa mix. But html a classic seemed to rise to the top when For cocktail drinkers: Homemade homemade fudge was mentioned. Passed Kahlua is easier than you think and only along recipes from family members make uses instant coffee, sugar, water, rum and the giftmaking and giving as wonderful as vanilla bean. Get an early start on this one receiving. though, as it tastes best after aging for 30 h t t p : / / w w w. m a r t h a s t e w a r t . days or so. com/350084/foolproof-holiday-fudge PQ Monthly

LeAnn Locher dabbles in the home arts and loves connecting with other domestic arts bad-asses at facebook.com/sassygardener. pqmonthly.com

DOES WINE GET ANY BETTER THAN THOSE FROM THE HERMIT’S HILL?

ing it many years before its time.)

PQ Monthly The grief Cristom pays for The greatest red wine I’ve ever tasted in making Hermitage-like wines is the lack my long and cranky life? No one ever asks, of adequate heat to ripen their syrah. Both but that won’t stop me from telling you.

2010 and 2011 pinot noirs turned out A $600 Chateau Lafite Rothschild? An decently. But syrah? Too cool. Thus no syrah $800 Romanée-Conti? You haven’t looked at from those vintages. The next release will my worn and scruffy shoes lately, have you? come from the 2012 vintage, which Cristom How about a Rhône wine from the Her- expects to release in 2015. mitage hill in southeastern France? Today At the Washington trade tasting in Portit comes in close to $100, but back in 1978 land in 2013, two syrahs showed excepthe Paul Jaboulet 1959 Hermitage “La Cha- tional quality. pelle” cost about $28 — at a restaurant in Walter Dacon 2008 “C’est Syrah Belle” central France!

(Columbia Valley), $30. AniChe Cellars 2010 Nora Ephron, quite likely, was at a “Atticus” Syrah with 3 percent viognier (Elenearby table listening to the phant Mountain Vineyrds), erotic noises my partner and $34.

I were making — and writ Both of these wines had ing the restaurant scene for exceptional aromas (aroma “When Harry Met Sally.” is sort of a bouquet for wines This liquid jewel too young to vote). had a bouquet suggest The Walter Dacon had ing the most elegant pervery attractive fruit, but fume you could imagine. needed a decade or so to So much for France. What reach its peak. Very promdoes all this have to do with i s i n g . D a c o n s a y s h e local wineries? Patience, aims to produce wines patience. resemb ling th ose from The same grape that the Rhône Valley. Wineproduced the Hermitage — m a k e r L l oyd A n d e r s o n Syrah, or syrah as the Assohas done the job admiciated Press dictates that rably with grapes from journalists spell it — comthe Yakima and Columbined with a touch of Viog- Paul Jaboulet 1959 Hermitage “La Chapelle” bia Valleys. The grapes are nier — oops, Mr. AP, I meant and the AniChe Cellar 2010 “Atticus” (97% fermented and aged at their viognier — is cropping up in Syrah and 3% Viognier). winery near Shelton,WA. Southern Oregon and south-eastern cor The AniChe Cellars “Atticus” Syrah has ners of Washington. spicy fruit and an even closer hint of an Her In April 2003, I had the good fortune mitage, if not as tannic. A decade in your to sample the Cayuse 2000 Syrah (Cocci- cellar should provide something impresnelle Vineyard) in Walla Walla. It delivered sive. If you must open yours tonight, decant almost as much excitement as the Hermit- it 30 minutes before the food hits your table. age and — given 16 more years to develop In late September, 2013, at the Underwho knows what? Alas, Cayuse wines, from wood, WA, winery, the syrah grapes were any of their vineyards, are extremely diffi- arriving from a vineyard an hour’s drive from cult to find. the AniChe Winery. Winemaker Rachael In Oregon’s Willamette Valley, one Horn found the 2013 numbers — pH, acidexpects the cool vineyards producing with ity, sugar level — pretty close to her wishes. world class pinot noir – and they do. But Both the Walter Dacon and AniChe show few wine-hounds would dream of plant- bolder fruit than an Hermitage, but the flaing syrah roots in northern Oregon. All the vors are in the family and deserve a decade more reason to congratulate the Cristom to develop.

Vineyards team for planting both syrah and Grovel, folks. Get on your knees. These viognier in the warmest corner of their vine- wines are worth a few appreciative words yards about 8 miles north ofSalem. to Bacchus.

The Cristom 2004 Estate Syrah, pur And, if you expect a generous income chased in 2005, surrendered its cork about tax refund, your neighborhood wine shop 2010. This bottle, from their second syrah can special order the current vintage od Paul harvest, generated memories of a great Jaboulet Hermitage for a hundred bucks and Hermitage. (And shame on me for quaff- loose change. Then prepare to wait. And wait.

By Richard Jones

“Richard Jones has imbibed a great deal of vino in his years as a winemaker, wine judge, wine writer, wine publisher, wine lecturer, and wine traveler. When he doesn’t have his nose in a glass, he works as a freelance reporter.”

November-December 2013 • 37

THE FUN STUFF

QUEER APERTURE Through his Queer Aperture project, photographer Jeffrey Horvitz has spent years documenting the LGBTQ communities of Portland, San Francisco, Seattle, and Vancouver, B.C. He’s well aware that a picture paints a whole mess of words, but here he offers a few actual words to better acquaint us with his dynamic subjects.

What is your name?

Robert Goman

Favorite book?

I don’t like to read

How long have you lived in Portland?

13 years

Favorite movie?

Moulin Rouge

What is the first time you noticed that Gayness existed?

4th grade, with a boy named Curtis

Favorite word?

Fuck

What would you consider a guilty pleasure?

Shopping Your having a dinner party of 6, whom would you invite?

Hilary Clinton, Prince William, Thomas Lauderdale, Jack Kennedy, Elton John & my mother What would you consider a perfect meal?

Grill Cheese and Tomato soup What would be a perfect day off?

Doing nothing, relaxing

Least favorite word?

Stupid Favorite swear word?

Fuck What is your profession?

Retail brand presentation If you could with a snap of a finger what would be another profession you would like to do?

I would love to be a barista Whom would you like to meet dead or alive?

Tom Ford

PHOTO BY JEFFREY HORVITZ

For more Queer Aperture visit, queeraperture.com

ASTROSCOPES WITH MISS RENEE Miss Renee aka Tarot Chick is an empath, tarot card reader, and spiritual astrologer of 20 years based out of N. Portland’s Kenton neighborhood. She loves love notes so feel free to holla or schedule a tarot/astrology chart session: that_tarot_chick@yahoo.com.

Miss Renee aka Tarot Chick. Email her to make an apointment

that_tarot_chick@yahoo.com

ARIES Your report card’s in re: how effective your financial planning at the start of 2013 was. Second level plan or revamp. On a deeper note, you’re probably starting to see just how much you’ve personally changed. Automatic responses and old paradigms no longer fit. What turns this new you on now? Live it.

TAURUS Hopefully the full moon in Taurus 11/17 brought deep truth around. 1. Faith. 2. Confidently expressing who you really are. Planetary aspects offer up pure magic via new personal and business relationships, bringing you closer to your goals than ever—IF you can practice non-attachment to “specific” outcomes. Let go and let it flow, baby!

38 • November-December 2013

GEMINI Your ruler, Mercury, goes direct again in your house of Work, allowing plans that stalled out in Sept/Oct to spark back into life now—with some revisions, of course. Speaking of “sparks”—partnered Gems crave an intensity and unexplored depth of intimacy with their lover. Single Gems WERK it and leave everyone panting for more.

Whether it be through romantic sizzle or artistic fireballs shooting out of your fingertips, you’re LAVA. Venus makes all about you effortless as she parks it for 5 FREAKING MONTHS in your Fifth house of Art/Romance/ Kids. Giving birth on all levels is possible now. MOVE!

LIBRA My crystal ball predicts a slow rolling values shift that quickly builds momentum. Planetary action CANCER in your Second house (Finance/Value Systems), Planetary action involving a retrograding Jupiter, Fourth house (Home/Family) and more asks you Chiron, & an intense full moon in your house of to prioritize what’s most important to you around Groups/Friends/Aspirations ask you: Is the face 1. Doing work you truly value. 2. Sweetening up you show us and the company you choose to keep home life. Revamping habits/schedule frees you in line with your inner truth? Allowing yourself to considerably. #ServingUpMadameZelda be sensitive as !!! now gets you answers. Creativity/Romance/Children hold the key. #AllTheFeels SCORPIO Being a “fixed sign” doesn’t care to change traLEO jectory once one’s been locked in. Unfortunately, Planetary action in your Fourth house (Childhood/ flexibility is a must now, as multiple planetary Family/Home) brings truth about imbalance between aspects require shifting/fine tuning your thinking home life and work life back into focus as this issue & education skills to further your career. Where may have sprung up already in Sept/Oct, but got side- you thought you were headed may have only been stepped. Entrepreneurial Leos find that remember- the first leg of your journey. ing childhood dreams and matching them with adult skill is a winning 1-2 knockout punch now #BLOOP! SAGGITARIUS The word that stands out the most for you now is VIRGO “soulful.” This is such a soulful time for you. Wilder, Your milkshake’s bringin’ ERRYBODY to the yard. freedom loving Sagges may find their conservative

business streak and conservative Sagges the opposite. Parts of yourself you’ve yet to meet surface now. Healing comes through releasing old childhood “truths” and creating new ones.

CAPRICORN Oooh la la! Charming love and wealth magnet Venus takes a seat in Capricorn giving you the Midas touch for 5 MONTHS! Nov/Dec especially provides opps for leveling up via self-care, capital F fun, and only choosing things/peeps that vibrate JOY. Single Caps: Your shine’s so attractive now, you may find “the one.”

AQUARIUS There’s a thing I call “the invisible audience.” We always feel like we have to “prove” ourselves to it.

Where do you have an invisible audience? What’ve you been trying to “prove”? I’d like to invite you to cut its hold on you now, move toward choices that empower you to take honest, heartfelt risks.

PISCES Do you hear that, Pisces? It’s your calling reaching out to you. Several planetary aspects as whispering “make a difference” to you. The need to be of service will get stronger and stronger in you until you are forced to 1) Volunteer, 2) Change careers, 3) Speak/Write. We are waiting for your magical contribution... pqmonthly.com

THE FUN STUFF

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40 • November-December 2013

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