salt lake magazine January 2013 Issue 214
2012 IN REVIEW
of YEAR the PERSONS VOLUNTEER LEADERS PHOTO: PAMELA A. BERRY
GaySaltLake.com
weber.edu/performingarts
Jan 9 Wed 7:00 PM Jazz at the Station GL/US Free 18 Fri 7:30 PM WSU Gospel Music Festival AA/VBC Free 18-19 7:30 pm Fundraising performance of Charm, by Kathleen Cahill. Send this production to ACTF Region VIII competition! ET/VBC $15 all seats (no comps) Feb 7-9 7:30 PM The Will Rogers Follies, Stone, Comden, Green, & Cy Coleman, directed by Jim Christian AT/VBC $12/$9 9 Sat 2:00 PM The Will Rogers Follies, Stone, Comden, Green, & Cy Coleman, directed by Jim Christian AT/VBC $12/$9 13 Wed 7:00 PM Jazz at the Station GL/US Free 13 Wed 7:30 PM Winter Choirfest AA/VBC $7/$6 19-23 7:30 PM The Will Rogers Follies, Stone, Comden, Green, & Cy Coleman, directed by Jim Christian AT/VBC $12/$9 23 Sat 2:00 PM The Will Rogers Follies, Stone, Comden, Green, & Cy Coleman, directed by Jim Christian AT/VBC $12/$9 23 Sat 5:00 PM ASL Theatre Interpreters Clinic + The Will Rogers Follies Contact: ameliawilliams@weber.edu 801-626-6413 24 Sun 7:30 PM Weber State Symphony Orchestra AA/VBC $7/$6 26 Tue 7:30 PM WSU Wind Ensemble AA/VBC $7/$6 28 Thu 7:30 PM WSU Jazz Ensemble AT/VBC 7/$6 Mar 13 Wed 7:00 PM Jazz at the Station GL/US Free 16 Sat 7:30 PM Bonneville Chamber Music Festival: Lively Mix AT/VBC Free thanks to R.A.M.P.! 18 Mon 7:30 PM Bonneville Chamber Music Festival: Northern Lights AT/VBC $6/$5 22 Fri 7:30 PM Bonneville Chamber Music Festival: Water and Fire AT/VBC $6/$5 THE 22-23 7:30 PM The Comedy of Oedipus by Ali Salim, directed by Jennifer Kokai ET/VBC $12/$9 23 Sat WSU ASTA Stringfest swang@weber.edu 23 Sat 7:30 PM Bonneville Chamber Music Festival: Electric FInale AA/VBC Cost:$6/$5 25 Mon 7:30 PM WSU ASTA Stringfest Honors Concert GCR/VBC Free 26-30 7:30 PM The Comedy of Oedipus by Ali Salim, directed by Jennifer Kokai ET/VBC $12/$9 28-30 7:30 PM Die Zauberflöte (The Magic Flute), by W.A. Mozart, directed by Karen Brookens AA/VBC $12/$9 30 Sat WSU Piano Festival VBC ralphvanderbeek@weber.edu 30 Sat 2:00 PM Die Zauberflöte (The Magic Flute), by W.A. Mozart, directed by Karen Brookens AA/VBC $12/$9 30 Sat 2:00 PM The Comedy of Oedipus by Ali Salim, directed by Jennifer Kokai ET/VBC $12/$9 Apr 2 Tue 7:30 PM WSU Percussion Ensemble GCR/VBC $7/$6 3 Wed 7:30 PM Browning String Quartet GCR/VBC Free 4-6 7:30 PM Orchesis Dance Theatre AT/VBC $12/$9 A K Q 4 Thu 7:30 PM Spring Choirfest $7/$6 A A K K Q AA/VBC Q 6 Sat 7:30 PM WSU Symphonic Band and WSU Wind Ensemble AA/VBC $7/$6 9-13 7:30 PM One-Act Festival 2013 AT/VBC $12/$9 9 Tue 7:30 PM String Chamber Ensembles GCR/VBC Free 10 Wed 7:00 PM Jazz at the Station GL/US Free 11 Thu 7:30 PM WSU Wind Ensemble with the WSU Chamber Choir AA/VBC $7/$6 14 Sun 7:30 PM Weber State Symphony Orchestra Concerto Night AA/VBC $7/$6 THE COMEDY OF THE COMEDY OF T HET/VBC E COMEDY OF 15 Mon 7:30 PM WSU Guitar Ensemble Free AT/VBC $7/$6 16 Tue 7:30 PM WSU Jazz Ensemble 17 Wed 7:30 PM Chamber Winds and Percussion GCR/VBC $7/$6 22 Mon 6:30 PM WSU String Project AA/VBC donation requested May 8 Wed 7:00 PM Jazz at the Station GL/US Free Right off the Frontrunner line and continuing all summer, 2nd Wednesday of each month: Jazz at the Station at Ogden’s Union Station 8 May, 12 June, 11 July, 8 August
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Charm has been selected for
American College Theatre Festival Region VIII competition.
Tracy Callahan
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Feb 7-9 19-23
by Stone, Comden, Green, Coleman
directed by
J Jim Christian
Mar 22-30
THE COMEDY OF
by Ali Salim directed by
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Apr 9-13
Plays TBA • announced 2013
directed by
10 Jennifer Kokai
WSU Students
American Sign Language interpretation provided February 23 and Mar 23 Weberstatetickets.com or 1-801-626-7000 • weber.edu/performingarts
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T H ETC HO EM E D Y O F
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by Kathleen Cahill directed by
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Jan 18-19
Help us raise the funds to travel to the festival by attending a fundraising performance on January 18 or 19.
THE
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JK10 10
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THE COMEDY OF
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Our fall semester production of
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Weber State University 2012-13 Spring Semester Theatre
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Love that transforms. Music that transcends.
DA N I E L C ATÁ N ’ S
Florencia en el amazonas JANUARY 19–27 |
CAPITOL THEATRE
Enter the lush Amazon with Florencia, an opera diva who returns to her homeland in hopes of finding her long-lost love, a butterfly collector who has disappeared in the jungle. On the voyage, mystical forces show her and her traveling companions just how powerful love can be. Reality, fantasy, and dreams intertwine with Catán’s thrilling music as Florencia transforms her regrets into inextinguishable hope. Tickets start at $13 Call 801-355-ARTS (2787) or visit uTAhopERA.oRg Sung in Spanish with English supertitles Ticket prices will increase by $5 on the day of the performance
4 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | STAFF
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
Earn up to
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editor Seth Bracken arts & entertainment editor/ofc mgr Tony Hobday graphic designer Christian Allred sales Bob Henline contributors Matt Andrus, Chris Azzopardi, Lynn Beltran, Paul Berge, Dave Brousseau, Abby Dees, Jack Fertig, Greg Fox, Charles Lynn Frost, John Hales, Bob Henline, Tony Hobday, Josh Jones, Christopher Katis, Lisa Myers, DavidElijah Nahmod, Petunia Pap Smear, Anthony Paull, Steven Petrow, Ruby Ridge, Ed Sikov, Ben Williams, D’Anne Witkowski distribution Ryan Benson, Peggy Bon, Michael Hamblin, Jason Van Campen publisher
Gay Salt Lake, Inc. 1055 East 2100 South, ste 206 Salt Lake City, Utah 84106 tel: 801-649-6663 toll-free: 1-800-806-7357 Contact emails: general: info@gaysaltlake.com editorial: editor@gaysaltlake.com sales: sales@gaysaltlake.com
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Copyright © 2012, Gay Salt Lake, Inc. All rights reserved. No material may be reprinted or reproduced without written permission from the publisher. 15,000 copies of QSaltLake Magazine are distributed free of charge at over 300 locations across the Wasatch Front. Free copies are limited to one per person. For additional copies, contact us at 801-649-6663. It is a crime to destroy or dispose of current issues or otherwise interfere with the distribution of this newsmagazine. Publication of the name or photograph of any individual or organization in articles or advertising in QSaltLake Magazine is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons. Printed in the U.S.A. on recycled paper. Please recycle this copy when you are through with it.
KINGSBURY HALL PRESENTS
An Evening with
Branford Marsalis
“[He] is truly one of the world’s most talented saxophonists…. He can do almost anything … except disappoint.” –Las Vegas Weekly Photo by Erica Ryan Anderson
February 5 | 7:30 PM Tickets: 801-581-7100 | www.kingtix.com Tickets starting at $34.50 | U of U Discounts Available
TM
6 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | FIRST PERSON
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
from the publisher
Leaders of passion by Michael Aaron michael@qsaltlake.com
We all
know and recognize the leaders of our larger organizations. They are quoted on the newscasts and in the papers, they are awarded at dinners and are everywhere to be seen. There are other leaders who rarely get the public laudations — the leaders of smaller organizations. But they are just as vital to the fabric of our community. Many of these people are simply irreplaceable. If they tire of their job or decide to up and move away, they leave a hole too large to fill. Many groups in our community have failed over the years once their leader moves on. Others wax and wane as strong and less-strong leaders take the helm.
This issue of QSaltLake is dedicated to those often unnamed and underappreciated leaders who selflessly carry a burden out of passion. While we didn’t have room for every person who fits this role, we recognize a dozen individuals for their contributions to Utah’s gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and ally community. I hope you will take some time to thanks these and other individuals who dedicate a good chunk of their lives for the betterment of our community. Speaking of people moving away, a personal note. Two very close friends and contributors to the success of this publication are leaving the state, and a void in my heart. Don Steward, aka Ruby Ridge, is now
This issue is dedicated to those often unnamed and underappreciated leaders who selflessly carry a burden out of passion.
down under, spending time with family and embarking on a new career. Don began writing for us on Issue No. 1 and I looked forward to every one of his contributions. My right-hand man and one of my best of friends, Tony Hobday, is moving to the East Coast where he will continue his writing career at another gay rag. While I’m sure I’ll find a way carry on, it won’t be the same without him. Gonna miss my Boo Boo. I hope your holidays are joyful and the new year brings all the rewards you deserve. Q
JaBzz runch Equality Utah
GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY!
Featuring World Renowned Bassist
JENNIFER LEITHAM Sunday, January 13
Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center 138 West 300 South
: URING FEAT NIFER
RIO EN J T E M H A T LEITH
11:00am Brunch & Silent Auction 1:00pm Concert 2:30pm Dessert Reception $65 per person Limited seating available Tickets @ www.equalityutah.org/events
KINGSBURY HALL PRESENTS
The Chieftains are not only the world’s most famous traditional Irish musicians, they are some of the most beloved‌ they make the music their own with a style that is as exhilarating as it is definitive.
February 13 | 7:30 PM Tickets: 801-581-7100 | www.kingtix.com Tickets starting at $28.50 | U of U Discounts Available
TM
8 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | NEWS
Utah Democrats pick Valdez for vice chair Democratic activist Josie Valdez was elected Utah Democratic Party vice chairwoman and will replace Jim Judd, who died in August after a motorcycle crash. A party committee elected Valdez on a second ballot after the first round of voting narrowed the field to her and openly lesbian Jane Marquardt. “We were blessed with a great field of candidates,” said Jim Dabakis, the openly gay state party chair.
Most Americans believe anti-gay bias is a ‘serious problem’ Most Americans, 63 percent, believe anti-gay bias is a “serious” or “very serious” problem, according a recent Gallup poll. Of those polled who identified as gay or lesbian, 88 percent said they directly encounter prejudice in various forms. The same poll found that 51 percent of Americans believe the nation will reach a consensus on marriage equality, while 45 percent believe otherwise.
Dabakis elected to fill McAdams’ Senate seat Utah’s first openly gay head of a major party will be representing Senate District 2 as Utah’s lone gay legislator. Jim Dabakis beat out two other gay candidates, as well as outgoing Salt Lake County Mayor Peter Corroon for the position. Dabakis is a well known activist in Utah’s queer community and helped launch Equality Utah more than 10 years ago. The competition was to replace outgoing Sen. Ben McAdams, who will be Salt Lake County’s new mayor.
SLC receives B+ Salt Lake City received a passing grade for queer inclusivity according to a new report by the Human Rights Campaign. The first-ever report from the HRC ranks municipalities around the nation on protections for queer residents, including domestic partnership registries, nondiscrimination
news
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
10 things you should know happened last month (Full stories at gaysaltlake.com.) ordinances and other factors. Salt Lake City was the only Utah city ranked, and scored 87 out of 100 points. “While many U.S. cities lag behind in protections for LGBT people, some of the most LGBT-friendly policies in the country have been innovated and implemented at the municipal level, including in states with laws that are unfriendly to the LGBT community,” an HRC press release read.
Majority of young HIV-positive Americans unaware of status Young Americans between the ages of 13 and 24 represent more than 25 percent of new HIV infections each year and 60 percent of these youth are unaware they are infected, according to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The most-affected young people are young gay and bisexual men and black Americans, the report found. An estimated 12,200 new HIV infections occurred in 2010 among young people aged 13-24. In 2010, 72 percent of estimated new HIV infections in young people occurred in young men who have sex with men.
Utah student files lawsuit against ‘reparative therapists’ A Utah student is joining three other gay men to file a lawsuit against a group performing so-called “conversion therapy.” Utah’s first openly gay senator, Scott McCoy, will represent the students. Michael Ferguson, Benja-
min Unger, Chaim Levin and Sheldon Bruck all underwent therapies at a New Jersey center called Jews Offering New Alternatives for Healing, more popularly known as JONAH. The Southern Poverty Law Center is sponsoring the lawsuit and filling it under New Jersey’s Fraud Act, which helps protect against false and misleading business practices. The price for so-called “conversion therapy” can be more than $10,000 annually.
12 allegedly gay Libyans threatened with execution Twelve men are in danger of being mutilated and killed for being gay after allegedly being captured by an extremist Libyan Islamist militia. The 12 men were having a party at a private residence when the militia captured them last week, according to the militia’s Facebook page. The militia said in the post the men were caught engaging in gay acts. Human Rights Watch Libya identified the group as the Al-Nawasi militia, who are considered to be extreme Salafists. The militia shared a photo on their Facebook page along with threats of mutilation and execution, according to gaystarnews.com. The post has since been removed.
Marriott-Slaterville passES anti-bias LAW Marriott-Slaterville, Utah became the state’s 16th municipality to protect against bias
based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The town is in Weber County and has a population of around 1,500 people. The city council voted on Nov. 15 to protect against bias in the workplace and in housing. The measure was part of a package of new business regulations and was passed unanimously by the city council.
LGBT Utahns speak out against bullying in wake of suicide A 14-year-old Bennion Junior High teen who took his life in front of classmates on Nov. 29 was bullied, according to students who attended a candlelight vigil. Police and school officials have identified the student as David Q. Phan. The young student reported bullying two years ago, but had not indicated any recent problems to school officials, according to a Granite School District spokesperson. Bullying is a large concern for Utah’s LGBT community, said Valerie Larabee, the executive director of the Utah Pride Center. The Center recently launched an anti-bullying hotline, 801-5807680, which is staffed by mental health professionals and ready to assist young Utahns who are being bullied. “We have a crisis in Utah that is fueled by a lack of education and acceptance of difference,” she said.
Families TALK ABOUT restricted book A representative from the American Civil Liberties Union detailed a lawsuit filed against Davis County School District at a forum in Ogden on Nov. 26. Leah Farrell spoke at the forum which discussed the decision to keep In our Mothers’ House off library shelves. Students are only able to check out the book with a permission slip signed by their parents. “The suit is in behalf of all children and protecting all children and their First Amendment rights,” Farrell said.
NEWS | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | 9
january, 2013 | issue 214 | gaysaltlake.com
by the numbers Utah companies more welcoming to LGBT employees 28,500 Corporations across America are becoming friendlier to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender employees, according to a new report by the Human Rights Campaign. The annual Corporate Equality Index has found more Fortune 500 companies offering protections to LGBT employees. Last year’s report awarded 183 companies a top score. This year, the number has jumped to 252. Also, 13 of the 20 top companies including General Motors, Chevron, AT&T and Citigroup, received 100 percent ratings. Apple, Bank of America, Comcast, eBay, General Mills, Google, Johnson & Johnson, Microsoft, Nike, United Airlines, Walgreens and The Walt Disney Co., are other corporations that have landed a perfect score. The CEI evaluates companies on anti-discrimination policies, health care protections and other factors. “Despite the fact that people can be legally denied a job or fired simply for their sexual orientation in 29 states and their gender identity in 34, our corporate allies have surged well ahead of lagging legislation to afford these protections,” HRC President Chad Griffin said. Locally, several companies were ranked in the CEI, including Overstock.com, 80 percent, Gastronomy, Inc., 70 percent, and Huntsman Corp., 40 percent. Last year, Huntsman Corp. received a 0 percent grade. Other major employers in the state that were graded include Delta Airlines Inc., 90 percent, Adobe Systems Inc., 90 percent, eBay Inc., 90 percent and Goldman Sachs
Group Inc., 100 percent. “Diversity is at the very core of our ability to serve our clients well and to maximize return for our shareholders. Diversity supports and strengthens the firm’s culture, and it reinforces our reputation as the employer of choice in our industry and beyond,” said Goldman Sachs Group Inc. CEO Lloyd C. Blankfein in a press release. Blankfein was recently highlighted in an HRC campaign video in which he voiced support for several marriage equality measures around the nation. Not all of Utah’s largest employers were ranked by the HRC and many offer competitive benefits for gay and transgender employees, as well as nondiscrimination policies. Zions Bank is now offering anti-bias procedures as well as domestic partnership benefits for employees. “At Zions Bank, diversity means respect, equality, opportunity, growth, fair treatment and participation. Zions Bank continues to thrive because of our strong commitment to diversity. We believe that success requires an environment where people are respected and valued, along with a talented workforce that reflects our diverse customer base,” said Scott Anderson, Zions Bank president. Utah’s largest nongovernmental employer, Intermountain Healthcare, is also offering domestic partnership benefits to Utahns. The company operates more than 20 hospitals and employs more than 32,000 employees. When announcing the decision to include domestic
partnership benefits, IHC spokesperson Daron Cowley said, “This practice has become the norm for many companies and government organizations throughout Utah and the nation.” There are 16 Utah municipalities that have anti-bias protections on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. Salt Lake City has the first domestic partnership registry for gay couples in the state. Nationally, more than 125 cities and counties, and 21, states have laws prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. Q The full report is available at hrc.org/corporate-equality-index
same-sex couples in the United States in which one partner is a U.S. citizen and the other is not.
11,500
same-sex couples where neither partner is a U.S. citizen.
40,000
same-sex couples could benefit if U.S. immigration law treated same-sex and oppositesex couples alike.
7,100
bi-national gay couples live in California, which is more than any other state.
35%
of bi-national gay couples are raising more than 17,000 children.
58%
of dual non-citizen, bi-national gay couples are raising an estimated 7,700 children. Source: Williams Institute
10 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | NEWS
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
Family says Utah teen was gay and taunted at school days before he committed suicide The family of a 14-year-old boy who died when he shot himself with a 22-caliber pistol in front of schoolmates are saying he was gay, had just been suspended from school and was the butt of a prank earlier that week. David Phan’s family sat down with a reporter at the Salt Lake Tribune and said they hope that others will learn from his suicide and are hoping to work with gay groups to address issues involving gay-ethnic youth. The ACLU has also stepped in to express the family’s anger toward school officials, who told the media that the boy was having “significant personal challenges on multiple fronts,” and to deter them from any further comments. David Phan came out to his family in stages. First a year ago to his older brother and other family members, then three months ago to his mother, Phuong Tran, and finally, his father, Nhuan Phan. His father told the Tribune that when David came out to him, he said to his son that he loved him no matter what. The family said that on the day before David killed himself he had received a “singing telegram” at a school holiday fundraiser from a boy, at which other students laughed. David’s cousin said that, while David laughed along with the rest of the students, he was “mortified.” The next day, David’s mother was called to the principal’s office and was told he
had been suspended. The principal told her that “another student had complained” and that a search of David’s backpack revealed that he had brought a condom to school. His mother said she felt “brushed off” when she demanded further explanation. “He told me: ‘We will discuss on Tuesday,’” she told the Tribune. She also told them she believed they wouldn’t talk to her because of her heavy accent. After his mother left the school and went home to find out if David was all right and offered him lunch. He said he was fine and she went back to work. David then returned to the school at about 3 p.m. and shot himself on a pedestrian bridge. School district spokesman Ben Horsley held a press conference, saying that school officials had not received complaints of his being bullied for at least two years. Horsley released a statement that read, “There appears to be ongoing rumors throughout social media and reported in the news media that the student was being bullied. This is of particular grave concern to the school and district. “There is an indication that the student reported a bullying concern several years ago. Consequently, school administration and counselors have stayed in close contact with him since that time. “Counselors have further remained in close regular contact with [him] because of other issues in his personal life. Despite specific personal inquiries, David never
Qmmunity
Big Gay Fun Bus
by Michael Aaron
Rev. Jesse Jackson to keynote Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration The University of Utah will feature Rev. Jesse Jackson as keynote speaker for the week-long celebration of the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. The speech will take place at the Jon M. Huntsman Center. Other events for the week include cultural performances, campus and community panel discussions, film screenings, a community service day and a rally. WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 24, 12 p.m. WHERE: Jon M. Huntsman Center, UofU
This seasonal event features QSaltLake‘s rowdy busload of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and friendly straight gamblers looking for a great time. Take a shot every time someone says, “I can’t believe she just said that!” and you’ll be ready to hit the slots in West Wendover. We’ll throw in $5, a complimentary drink ticket and a free buffet at you when you get there to get you started. This charity fundraiser has become a favorite event for gay and straight passengers alike. WHEN: Jan. 12, 12-9 p.m. WHERE: Meet at Club Try-Angles parking lot, 251 W. 900 South INFO: BigGayFunBus.com
reported any further bullying concerns and on the contrary, reported that things were going well.” The family were aware only of David seeking career counseling. They expressed frustration that counselors may also have been talking with him about mental health issues without their knowledge. “Why didn’t they tell the parents? Don’t they have a right to know?” asked Nhuan Phan. Horlsey told the Tribune that David had only seen a guidance counselor, not a mental health counselor. Horlsey refused to elaborate on any of the discussions that happened between David and the counselor. In a letter to Granite School District Superintendent Martin Bates, ACLU Legal Director John Mejia wrote that Horsley and other school officials had been “extremely inappropriate in their public statements about David and his family. Most troubling to David’s parents and to us is that this pattern of wrongful behavior appears to be crafted to deflect questions about any potential responsibility from the District and to try to cast blame and suspicion on David and his family.” The letter further demanded school officials cease and desist from any further public release of information about David or his family. The Phan family has asked Utah Vietnamese American Chamber of Commerce First Vice Chair Steven Ha to help introduce them to gay community leaders in the hope of assembling a group to address issues faced by gay-ethnic youth. “We’re not interested in suing, but working with credible sources. That’s how we want David to be remembered,” Ha told the Tribune. Ha can be contacted at steven.ha.usa@ gmail.com Q
NEWS | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | 11
january, 2013 | issue 214 | gaysaltlake.com
Utah church denied software due to stance on gays When representatives of the Salt Lake Center for Spiritual Living first decided to purchase church management software, they didn’t anticipate many problems. The software helps manage records, membership and other tasks; and there are many developers with different products. The SLCSL is not a traditional organization and is inclusive to members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community, said Myna Hirst, a church spokesperson. The church is one of three major metaphysical organizations in the nation and has hundreds of congregations around the world, she said. The first software program the SLCSL tried to purchase was from a company called Elexio, Hirst said. “They sent us an email and said they’d looked at our website and found we violated company policy to not work with organizations that are more inclusive,” she said. “There was a whole laundry list of things they opposed; abortion, pornography for example, and homosexuality was one of
Qmmunity Equality Utah Jazz Brunch Equality Utah’s annual Jazz Brunch will feature the Jennifer Leitham Trio. Leitham is an award-winning bass player and the subject of the new documentary, I Stand Corrected, which follows her journey transitioning. She is a prominent jazz musician and a transgender woman. WHAT: Equality Utah Jazz Brunch WHEN: Jan. 13, 11 a.m.
them.” The unexpected surprise of being denied the software was compounded when a second company, Church Teams, said it would not vend software to churches that were not sufficiently Christian for the company owners, Hirst said. “We finally found a company that would sell to us, called Fellowship One. But it was a little surprising to face so many problems,” she said. “We’ve never had a problem like that before.” The SLCSL is a queerinclusive environment and is even headed by an openly gay minister who is in a relationship with another man. The church is planning a series of Christmas-themed gatherings, including Blue Christmas for those who have lost a loved one this year and a candlelight vigil. Meetings are normally held every Sunday, 9 and 11 a.m., 1111 E. Brickyard Rd., Ste. 202. For more information, go to spirituallyfree.org. Representatives from Elexio and Church Teams did not return requests for comments. Q
WHERE: Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center, 138 W. 300 South TICKETS: $65, equalityutah. org
Park City Gay Ski Week The Third Annual Park City Gay Ski Week will be held Feb. 21-24 and will attract powder aficionados from around the nation. Elevation Utah attracts a diverse crowd with sponsored events, parties and slope runs. WHEN: Feb. 21-24 WHERE: Park City INFO: utahgayski.com
U TA H C E N FILM T E R
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THURS, JAN. 10 @ 7PM
DAMN THESE HEELS! YEAR-ROUND
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æ I STAND CORRECTED Directed by Andrea Meyerson Not rated / 86 min / USA Post-screening Q+A with Jennifer Leitham Watch Jennifer Leitham perform and it’s obvious the striking redhead is an original. She’s a special talent made all the more unique because she began her life and career as John Leitham. I Stand Corrected charts her rise as a virtuoso of the upright bass and reveals how she risked everything with her decision to undergo sexual reassignment surgery.
BREWVIES / 677 S. 200 W. DA M N TH E S E H E E L S! S P O N S O R E D BY
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12 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | NEWS
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
Gay Utah couples await Supreme Court decision on Defense of Marriage Act by Seth Bracken
No one plans who they’ll fall in love with. And Ben Visser, a 32-year-old Utah man, certainly didn’t plan on falling in love with a man that lives on the other side of the world. “It’s not what you picture in your life. That you’ll grow up, meet someone 8,000 miles away and fall in love with him,” Visser said. He has been dating B.E.V., whose name is withheld for his own safety, for more than a year. The pair starting chatting online and when they first met in B.E.V.’s native Indonesia, the connection was instant. After continuing their communication online, using Skype when it’s available and texting, the couple is ready to make the next step, but the U.S. government isn’t. B.E.V. is not a U.S. citizen and was denied a travel visa to visit. Even after Visser returned to Indonesia to the U.S. embassy and petition for leniency, none was granted and B.E.V. is still not allowed to visit his partner. Because Visser’s life — children and career — are already established in America, emigrating to Indonesia is not possible. “I always heard growing up that our country was a land of life, liberty and pursuit of happiness. But that no longer applies to me. It’s not an option for me in this country until my family can be made whole. My life, liberty and happiness is being with this person and I can’t do that,” Visser said. The anti-gay Defense of Marriage Act, more popularly known as DOMA, bars the federal government from recognizing gay couples, such as Visser and B.E.V. Were Visser dating a woman, the process to receive a visa would be very clear; first, they’d apply for fiancé visa and after their wedding, B.E.V. could apply for permanent residency. Even if the pair were to live in one of the nine states that recognize marriage equality, DOMA prohibits the federal government from granting the same marriage rights to gay couples. “DOMA singles out lawfully married same-sex couples for unequal treatment under federal law,” said Human Rights Campaign President Chad Griffin. “It
denies same-sex couples more than 1,100 federal rights and benefits.” The law was officially enacted in 1996 when lawmakers saw some state making moves toward marriage equality, particularly Hawaii. DOMA has been challenged in federal courts more than a dozen times and in 2011 the Obama administration announced it would no longer defend the discriminatory law. House Republicans launched their own defense and have since used more than $1.5 million in taxpayer dollars for legal costs. Eight federal courts, including the First
The announcement that the case would be considered opens the door for a major victory for gay rights, said Evan Wolfson, executive director of Freedom to Marry. “By agreeing to hear a case against the so-called Defense of Marriage Act, the Court can now move swiftly to affirm what 10 federal rulings have already said: DOMA’s ‘gay exception’ to how the federal government treats married couples violates the Constitution and must fall,” Wolfson said. “When it comes to the whole federal safety net that accompanies marriage – access to Social Security survivorship, health
and Second Circuit Court of Appeals, have found DOMA to be unconstitutional and unfairly discriminatory on issues including bankruptcy, public employee benefits, estate taxes and immigration. The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear an appeal in one of those cases, United States v. Windsor, with oral arguments expected in March 2013. The case concerns Edith Windsor and Thea Clara Spyer who were married in 2007 in Canada. Spyer died in 2009 and Windsor inherited her belongings and property. DOMA didn’t allow the Internal Revenue Service to recognize Windsor as a surviving spouse and she was given a tax bill of $360,000. Had they been in an opposite-sex marriage, she would have not faced the tax bill.
coverage, family leave, fair tax treatment, family immigration, and over 1000 other protections and responsibilities — couples who are legally married in the states should be treated by the federal government as what they are: married.” As Visser and his partner navigate the unclear path to keep their family together, they, along with millions of other Americans, will be watching the Supreme Court’s actions with bated breath. If the justices agree that DOMA is unconstitutional, Visser’s family could be reunited with much greater ease. “It isn’t about having a fabulous wedding. It’s about having a dedicated person in your life, someone you get to spend every day with. It’s about every day after your wedding day,” Visser said. Q
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a hefty price to pay, I understand where that money is going after reviewing all the materials and speaking with the customer service representative. And some may find the experience at home more pleasant than at a clinic. The results are very simple to follow. One red line on the reader indicates a negative result and two lines indicates a positive status. The testing information stresses that all positive results must be confirmed. The same time restrictions
apply to the OraQuick test. The results may not be as accurate until three months after exposure. Also, there are some other restrictions such as mouthwash and toothpaste should not be used for 30 minutes prior to testing. If you decide to try the OraQuick test, just follow the detailed instructions and clear about 30 minutes to dedicate to the test. It’s quick, simple alternative to going to the clinic for results. Q oraquick.com.
HIV at-home test kit now in Utah stores Last spring, the Food and Drug Administration approved the first over-the-counter takehome HIV test. The OraQuick test is available at Walgreens, CVS and other pharmacies around the nation, in rural and urban areas alike. The test is aimed at reaching those that would not be tested through other avenues, according to a report by the FDA. Approximately one-fifth, or 240,000 people, of the 1.2 million HIV carriers in the U.S. are not aware they are infected. On average, around 50,000 Americans are diagnosed each year. So how does the test work and is it really simple enough to do at home? I took the challenge and went to the nearest Walgreens to my home in Bountiful. The test carries a $40 price tag, much more than the free tests at the Utah AIDS Foundation, but this test is slightly more convenient. After settling in at home, I opened the package and started reading. The steps
are clearly laid out and come with small illustrations. After preparing the materials and opening the packages, I did the familiar swipe of the testing strip around my gums and placed it in the test tube bottle provided. There’s even a small bottle holder in the case. After setting my timer for 20 minutes, I browsed the accompanying materials. There are support numbers available for around-the-clock service and other information. The materials cover much of the groundwork for prevention that the volunteers at UAF normally cover. I was impressed by the available services and called the testing hotline just to see what kind of service I encountered. I was immediately connected to a very helpful and friendly woman who answered all the possible questions I could imagine. If a positive result is returned, the hotline representatives will assist you in setting an appointment with a local physician to confirm the test. While the $40 may seem
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14 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | NEWS
not as i do ‘Ex-gay’ leader accused of orchestrating wife’s murder A leader of an anti-gay Christian group in the Kansas City, Mo., area is suspected of orchestrating the murder of his wife, whose death was first thought to be a suicide, the Kansas City Star reports. The group, which is connected to the International House of Prayer, is virulently anti-gay. And its leader, Tyler Deaton, was against homosexuality because he was gay, the Star reports. “He struggled with it, but he overcame it,” a member of the
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
group told the Star. “It was a victory.” Deaton is suspected of being behind the murder of his wife, Bethany Deaton, 27, whose body was found in the back of her van. After her death, Micah Moore, a member of the group, turned himself in and told authorities he was forced into committing the murder. He also shared details of the acts that allegedly happened in the prayer group.
anti-gay group Lawyer Charged with child pornography A lawyer with the anti-gay Alliance Defending Freedom was arrested on child pornography charges. Lisa Biron, a New Hampshire lawyer associated
with the ADF, also known as the Alliance Defense Fund, is charged with taking a teenage girl to Canada and filming their sexual encounter. Federal prosecutors allege the following charges: two witnesses have testified to seeing Biron in possession of ecstasy, marijuana and cocaine; Biron sent a threatening text message to the person who turned her in to the police, advising him he would have to watch his back “FOR EVER.”; Biron sent a text to a friend saying she might flee to Cuba because she had “nothing left.”; Biron has asked people to lie to law enforcement about her case; other juveniles have been subjected to Biron’s sexual activity and drug use.
Quips&Quotes
“
I hope the leaders of the Church will continue to seek revelations to better understand a subject they’ve acknowledged to be complex, as they actively did with polygamy and blacks and the priesthood. Believe me, it’s so easy to find yourself on the wrong side of history.” —Danny Crivello, editor of The American Fork Citizen
“
Homosexual children, on this theory, are born evolutionarily and genetically disadvantaged. They have been overexposed or underexposed to testosterone because something has gone wrong in the process of genetic transmission. In other words, they are the product of a genetic abnormality at best, a birth defect at worst. I expect that if this theory gains some currency, it will not be long before we have legislation from the homosexual lobby prohibiting ‘sex-selection’ abortions on any child carrying this epi-marker.” —Bryan Fischer, head of the American Family Association
“
If we cannot have moral feelings against or objections to homosexuality, can we have it against anything?... I don’t think it’s necessary, but I think it’s effective.” —U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia
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Mom’s podcast to help family, friends of LGBTs After her son came out as gay while in college, Leesa Myers said she felt devastated that he didn’t feel safe sooner. Myers is a local activist and queer-rights advocate. However, when her son first told her he was gay, she said she wasn’t sure what to do. She was not nearly as familiar with the gay community as she is now. After researching, reading and being involved in various groups, Myers is on a path to help other family members and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. Her regular column, A Mom’s View, appears monthly in QSaltLake, and after just a few issues, is generating a lot of positive feedback. But she’s not stopping with her print edition. She’s taking her column to the airwaves and launching a podcast to tell the stories of families with LGBT members. “I think we connect to stories so much more than just information. We’ll have guests come on and talk about their
experiences and we’ll find examples that will be able to help others in creating safe places for LGBT family members,” Myers said. The podcast will be aimed at conservative and liberal alike and will be a resource for families who have recently found out they have an LGBT member, as well as for those who are a little more experienced within the community. “I want to be able to create resources so that when you come out to your family you will be able to direct them to the podcast. We’ll use other people’s experiences to help your family,” Myers said. While her podcast is being launched, Myers is seeking support in an Indiegogo campaign to help cover startup expenses. “I am so grateful to anyone who helps get this project going. I think it’s such an important cause,” she said. To find out more about the podcast or to make a donation, go to indiegogo.com.momsview. Q
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Equality Utah brunch to feature transgender jazz musician Equality Utah’s annual Jazz Brunch will be held Jan. 13, 11 a.m., at the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center and will feature the Jennifer Leitham Trio. Leitham is an awardwinning bass player and the subject of the new documentary, I Stand Corrected. The film documents Leitham’s journey as she transitioned and her experiences as a transgender woman working in the music industry. The film has garnered multiple awards including being named the best documentary of Outfest 2012. After working her way to the top and becoming one of
the most well-known jazz bassists in the industry, Leitham risked it all by publicly coming out as transgender and having undergone sexual reassignment surgery. The Jazz Brunch will feature a silent auction, performance and a dessert reception. Tickets are $65 and can be purchased at equalityutah.org.
You should go… WHAT: Equality Utah Jazz Brunch WHEN: Jan. 13, 11 a.m. WHERE: Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center, 138 W. 300 South TICKETS: $65, equalityutah.org Deer Valley Resort
16 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | VIEWS
“ “
“Sadly, some topics dredge up emotions and prevent rational discussion. That said, I hope you’ll enjoy rational discussion on this topic.”
10 things we heard last month
—Jay Heuman on ‘exgay’ therapy lawsuit
“We need to talk, people, community members. In any family, wholeness and love and health come from healthy communication. And that’s what OUTreach Resource Center is providing: a place for members of the community to get together and rationally talk about and share information about issues where there are differing thoughts.”
“
—Peggy Bon
“ “
—Rob Darke on mormonsandgays.org
“I think it’s sad how many gay Mormons are so desperate to accept any little gesture, “Hey, they’re telling my family to not disown me! Score!” Make no mistake, folks — this still boils down to there’s something wrong with you. You have to deny a significant part of who you are. You are disappointing your “God.”
“For some reason, the whole time I was browsing the site and watching the videos, I could hear myself repeat one thing and over again. It doesn’t matter how much perfume they try put on it, this turd will always be a turd.” —Robert James Larsen
“I noticed that the Pride Center and the new senator commended the new site. I am troubled by that. It is a fantasy land, dream world.” —Ross Poore on mormonsandgays.org
views
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
“ “ “
“I still will resist stepping in to an LDS chapel any time soon.” —Garth Chamberlain on mormonsandgays.org
“The whole site is in insulting. The ‘same-sex attraction’ references are ignorant and obnoxious! Why any gay or lesbian would want to be a part of this church amazes me.” —Kevin Riddle on mormonsandgays.org
“Bumper sticker PR to try to deflect attention from their hate-mongering. Offensive at best, dangerous at worst.” —Jerry Heppler on mormonsandgays.org
“
“It is nice to see a very specific and clear position that members cannot pick and choose from. The church officially takes the stand that gay is not a choice and that family members should welcome and work with members that have these feelings. This is very important to me. It is not perfect but it a vast improvement.” —James Humphreys on mormonsandgays.org
QSaltLake Magazine welcomes your letters to the editor.
Please send your letter of 300 words or less to letters@ gaysaltlake.com. We reserve the right to edit for length or libel if a letter is chosen for publication.
“
“It is about time we bring down reparative therapy, which is based on no sound science whatsoever! What the article didn’t mention was the suicides associated with these therapies, where hundreds, if not thousands of gay men and women kill themselves during their struggle to find themselves as something other than queer.” —Matt Conway
january, 2013 | issue 214 | gaysaltlake.com
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from the editor
Su ga S r H po ou nso se r o Ar f tW al k
2012: A banner year for the Utah volunteer
no appointments convenient hours chiropractic physicians
by Seth Bracken seth@qsaltlake.com
Each year
QSaltLake honors someone who has made a difference in the community as the Person of the Year. Keeping in tradition with many other publications, we select someone who has had an impact, positive or negative, and often our selections are ironic, such as the year Thomas Monson was chosen. But this year, we chose to honor 12 people who represent the philanthropic volunteerism that makes Utah a wonderful place to live. Without these people, we would not have as many clubs, organizations and activities to make the quality of life much better in a traditionally conservative state. The standard of living here is very high. And part of that is due to the hard work of these people who never receive payment and often are never thanked. Among the groups that are represented this year are the Utah Gay Fathers Association, the Queer Utah Aquatics Club, Cheer Salt Lake, Transgender Education Advocates of Utah, Temple Squares, Utah Stonewall Democrats, Ogden OUTreach and many more. There are also some individuals represented who simply attend events, raise money and contribute to the activist and social groups in Salt Lake City. Our biggest concern when selecting our honorees is that we would miss someone important who is behind the scenes orchestrating a better life for Utah’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. We know there are so many people who donate their
time and money to important groups and causes that help improve our daily lives. And to all of you, we salute you and thank you. It’s the collective work of thousands of people that have helped make 2012 a great year for our queer community. While we didn’t see a statewide nondiscrimination bill pass, we did see our governor veto a sex education bill that would have done great damage to the LGBT community. We now have 16 municipalities that offer protections against bias based on sexual orientation and gender identity. We have an openly gay man representing Senate District 2 and many other allies holding office around the state. We had thousands of people gather in Salt Lake City for one of our largest Pride Festivals yet and former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman spoke at the largest indoor gathering for LGBT people this side of the Mississippi. Nationally, we saw three states choose equality and legalize gay marriage. Minnesota also made history in becoming the first state to strike down a measure to constitutionally limit marriage to one man and one woman. Our president announced his support for gay marriage and the Supreme Court announced it will consider same-sex marriage for the first time. None of these terrific accomplishments would have been achieved if it were not for volunteers and financial contributors like thousands of QSaltLake readers. Thank you. Q
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thinking out loud
The religious freedom red herring by Abby Dees abby@qsaltlake.com
By the
time you read this, you’ll probably know if the Supreme Court has decided to hear one of the three marriage equality cases knocking at its venerable doors. I’m willing to bet a hundred bucks that the Court will agree to hear one of those appeals, and in 2013 will decide this issue once and for all. If I’m right, then next year is going to be the loudest, most debated, most obnoxious — possibly the most important — year in our history with regard to LGBT rights. The Court, like the lower courts before, will consider legal arguments on both sides. There will be careful examination of the history of equal protection law and much serious throwing around of such legal terms of art as “heightened scrutiny,” “rational basis review,” and “legislative history.” Meanwhile, average non-lawyer Americans will play right along at home, arguing each side just as intensely, only with a whole different set of facts and rules. Right now, maybe the most bandied about argument against marriage equality is that it will violate people’s religious
freedom. If you believe the anti-marriageequality folks, you might think that only they stand between the LGBT community and total secular chaos. But if you followed the courtroom action in any of the marriage cases, you might have noticed that the religious freedom argument doesn’t get much play in front of a judge. That’s because the lawyer’s all know that marriage equality will never mean that priests and rabbis will be forced to perform a marriage ceremony against their beliefs. Have you ever seen a divorcee get married in a Catholic church? How about a couple of Southern Baptists getting hitched in an Orthodox temple? Probably not. Our First Amendment guarantee of religious freedom means that the government can’t tell people what to do in their own, private religious ceremonies — unless it’s really dangerous, in which case, yeah, the fire marshal can shut down the part where the minister tries to swallow a flaming spear, or whatever. This is never, ever, going to change. I once read a story posted by an anti-
sanctity of marriage Nurse convicted of wife’s murder
Track Palin, wife file for divorce
A Massachusetts nurse has been convicted and sentenced to life in prison for killing his wife with an overdose of morphine. Asim Amran, 33, was convicted of first-degree murder and prosecutors said he gave his wife, Faiza Malik, a lethal dose of morphine in December 2008. He later stuffed her body in a suitcase and disposed of it 30 miles from his home. Her body was not discovered until August 2009.
Sarah Palin’s oldest son and his high school sweetheart wife are calling it quits after one year of marriage. Track Palin and Britta Hanson have officially filed for divorce. The couple was married in April 2011, but has said they’ve already settled property and custody issues. They have a 1-year-old daughter named Kyla, who was born three months after the couple’s wedding. Sarah Palin was a staunch op-
ponent of marriage equality while running for governor of Alaska and vice president.
Arizona man sentenced for killing wife’s puppy A 46-year-old Arizona man was sentenced to 18 months in prison plus three years prbationfor killing his wife’s dog during an argument about his drinking habits. Davis pleaded guilty to cruelty to animals under a plea deal. The couple was arguing about whether he should stop drinking when he took her puppy by its legs and slammed it into the concrete, killing it, according to The Associated Press.
LGBT group about a priest who got fined for refusing to marry a lesbian couple, and so, scratching my head, I did a little source checking. Turns out they omitted one tiny part of the story: it happened in Sweden. It concerns me when I have to remind people that different countries have different laws, but why let facts get in the way? This doesn’t mean that religious institutions are free to discriminate as much as they want, and then use the First Amendment like diplomatic license plates in a noparking zone. There are plenty of examples of church-run businesses or secular social services being held to the same equal protection requirements as everyone else. The critical distinction is that these are not faith or worship activities. Opponents of marriage equality intentionally fudge this fact so as to convince well-intended religious folks that we want to destroy everything they, literally, hold sacred. In practice, this could mean that if a church owns a park that’s open to the general public, it can’t discriminate against couples who want to use that park for a wedding on the basis of race, religion, or — if the park is in a place that recognizes LGBT rights — sexual orientation. But the minister will never have to perform that wedding; nor will we be allowed to shove our way into a house of worship for a big ol’ gay wedding. I don’t buy the religious freedom argument at all, whether based in law or common respect. I’ve met some pretty radical queers in my life and none of them has ever said anything like, “In my dream wedding, we’re wearing matching Chanel suits and our priest will perform the ceremony under duress, in violation of his religious tenets.” I mean, is this romantic? We’ve got our own supportive places of worship anyway. And we, as much as anyone, understand the importance of letting people be free to make their own, most personal of choices without intrusion by the state, random strangers or any one’s religious beliefs. Q
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the straight line
Buy local and support the community by Bob Henline bob@qsaltlake.com
Over the
course of several years I have found a place within Utah’s LGBT community, a home, if you will. As we end 2012 and move into a new year (unless, of course, the Mayans were right) I think it’s important to slow down the pace for a minute and take a look at the things that really matter. I’m going to try to go beyond the typical friends, family and job things and get into something a bit deeper — our community. For me, a community is a broad network of people, businesses and organizations within which a person decides to exist. In my view, a community is a bigger version of a family of choice, encompassing acquaintances, business relationships and ideas — as well as the closer-knit family of close friends and loved ones. Like a family, a community comes together and supports its members. In fact, we witnessed that recently when this community came together to help sustain this publication. We’ve seen it in other areas as well, as many of our local businesses have come together to help with fundraisers and to support the people of this community in various ways. It is time, though, to look at our community in a different light. We need to evolve beyond the point of coming together in times of need and stand together all the time. A few months ago, Seth Bracken wrote an article about the value of the “Pink Dollars,” that is, money spent by the LGBT community. More and more “mainstream” businesses
are now courting the LGBT community with the hope of being on the receiving end of some of those pink dollars. And while I recognize the social advances that have been made that enable that kind of courtship, I think it’s also important that we recognize some potential potholes in this road. First and foremost, I’m a local guy. I firmly believe that we build stronger communities and a stronger economy when we invest in our local businesses. We do this by giving them our patronage. Yes, it’s easier to go to a big-box store and pick up everything on your list in one place, many times it’s even a bit cheaper; but is it the best way to spend your money? There are a number of local businesses that have spent years supporting this community, in good times and in bad. They’ve been there to donate to various charity events, help with fundraisers and awareness campaigns, and give us jobs. We, as a community, have an obligation to those businesses who are a part of this community. It is our patronage of those shops, caterers, insurance agents, fix-it people and others that allows them to stay in business, to hire our friends and family, and to support the community at large. It isn’t always the easiest or the cheapest path, but supporting our community’s businesses pays dividends in innumerable ways. As you enter the new year, I encourage you to look at your spending habits and look at ways you can help support the businesses that support this community. Q
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lambda lore
The pink and lavender menace by Ben Williams ben@qsaltlake.com
At the
beginning of the 1950s, public opinion on homosexuality was that it was unnatural and a morally corrupting lifestyle. But it was hardly viewed as a threat to national security. However, opinion quickly changed as homosexuality was touted by politicians as a threat, not only to the American family’s wholesome values but to America itself. Within a few years homosexuals were no longer viewed as the silly pansies of the 1930s but rather by mid 1950s they were perceived as downright un-American. In 1948, sexologist Alfred Kinsey suggested a more widespread practice of homosexual behavior among men then was assumed by most Americans. Conservatives saw the report as proof of a national moral decline which made the nation susceptible to a communist conquest. Numerous newspapers and magazines of the late 1940s and early 1950s also fed national anxieties by reporting that the communists promoted sex perversion among America’s youth as a way to weaken the country — to clear a path for a communist takeover. In the minds of the paranoid, homosexuals were the source of a potential “fifth column” that would destroy America from within by preventing family formation and fostering moral decay. So irrational were the times that even usually cogent men like Sen. Everett Dirksen, from Illinois, was caught up in the hysteria. Dirksen claimed that Josef Stalin had obtained a global list of homosexuals seized from Adolf Hitler and was planning on using it to conquer the world through blackmail and deception. While congressional conservatives had convinced Americans there was a communist hiding beneath every bed, it was this fear that a homosexual might be lurking there instead, which fueled the national panic of the 1950s. The fall of China to the Communists shook Americans to the core. The Republican Party leveraged this fear of world domination by the Soviet Union to regain power in Washington, D.C. The Grand
Old Party pointed fingers at the Truman administration for the fall of China by accusing them of allowing subversives to hand over state secrets to the Communists. Among those blamed for the failure of America’s containment of communism were homosexuals employed in civil service. Republican alarmists declared that national security hinged on ridding anyone from government employment who seemed subversive, peculiar or queer. In March, 1950, Rep. Arthur Miller of Nebraska addressed Congress on what he perceived was the greatest threat to the American people. He stated: “Mr. Chairman, I realize that I am discussing a very delicate subject … I cannot expose all the putrid facts as it would offend the sensibilities of some of you… Make no mistake, several thousand (homosexuals), according to police records, are now employed by the federal government… Recently Mr. (John) Peurifoy, of the State Department, said he had allowed 91 individuals in the State Department to resign because they were homosexuals. Now they are like birds of a feather, they flock together. Where did they go?” Less than a month later the New York Times reported that the national chairman of the Republican Party, Guy Gabrielson, declared that “sexual perverts” had infiltrated the government and were “perhaps as dangerous as the actual Communists.” The exploitation of homosexuals as America’s newest bogeyman had begun in earnest. Conservatives argued in as much that because the government held homosexuals as unfit for military service, they should be declared morally and psychologically unfit for civil service as well. Public policy decisions on whether to allow homosexuals to serve in government centered on three main propositions: that they were susceptible to blackmail, that psychologists had determined homosexuality to be a pathology and that it was sexual deviancy that harmed children. Historian David Johnson suggested the
real reason for the emerging campaign against homosexuals in the 1950s was simply a conservative backlash against the Democrat administrations of Franklin Roosevelt and Harry Truman. Republicans, out of power for nearly 20 years, made accusations that by allowing homosexuals to serve in government the moral fiber of the nation was weakened. Republicans asserted that allowing homosexuals in civil service demonstrated how corrupt and morally lax was the Democrat administration. The GOP, by latching onto the issue of homosexuals in government, was able to come out as the party for strong family values. Conservatives relentlessly Republican began hamalarmists declared mering the American that national people with security hinged on extremist ridding anyone rhetoric, instilling from government the impresemployment who sion that seemed subversive, while some homosexuals peculiar or queer. might not be communists, all could be blackmailed and coerced into revealing government secrets. Certainly it was in Republican political interests to promote homosexuals as a threat to national security. In the early 1950s, Congress was urged by a fretful public to hold hearings to investigate the influence of homosexuals and Communists in government. Both were thought to be equally dangerous because they recruited the young and the psychologically weak or disturbed. The House created the Committee on Un-American Activities which eventually became the most powerful governmental agency in Congress. The hearings came to reflect America’s anxieties over Communists and homosexual threats to the American way of life. The Senate created a corresponding
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committee called the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations. Sen. Joseph McCarthy of Wisconsin and his assistant, Roy Cohen, orchestrated some of the worst attacks on homosexuality during hearings held by the subcommittee. McCarthy served as chairman of the Senate subcommittee from 1953 to 1954 and at the height of his hearings he lambasted both Communists and homosexuals as being enemies of the American people. Both Senate and House committees spent years investigating claims that communist agents had blackmailed homosexuals into revealing state secrets. These hearings were nationally televised and were held to “weed out the traitorous reds and fairies in government.” However, they never identified a single bona fide homosexual traitor in public service. Yet both
committees concluded “emphatically that homosexuals posed a threat to national security and called for their removal from all federal agencies.” Republicans, throughout the 1952 presidential election, exploited American homophobia by campaigning on the notion that moral and political corruption permeated the Truman White House. Republican candidates, Dwight Eisenhower and Richard Nixon, on the other hand, were portrayed as regular guys. The GOP campaign slogan of, “Let’s Clean House” insinuated that the incumbent Democrat administration was soft on homosexuals and could not be trusted. The Democrats choice for the White House in 1952 was Governor Adlai Stevenson of Illinois. Republicans tarnished Stevenson’s image, by insinuating that
Stevenson was an effete “egghead” and slightly “fruity.” He was a divorced former State Department official and rumored to be a homosexual. That rumor had germinated in the office of J. Edgar Hoover, director of the FBI. One of Hoover’s top agents, M. Wesley Swearingen, claimed that the rumors of Stevenson’s homosexuality were started by the director of the FBI because the bureau chief thought Stevenson was a communist sympathizer. Hoover demonstrated distaste for Stevenson and in his personal files repeatedly referred to him as queer. It seems incongruent that the director of the FBI could maintain publicly that homosexuality was as dangerous as communism while in his private life he kept Clyde Tolson as his personal assistant and life partner. Q
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by D’Anne Witkowski danne@qsaltlake.com
In the
uphill battle for marriage equality, gays and lesbians have had to stare down many disappointing court decisions in which bias and homophobia masqueraded as law. Granted marriage equality received a significant boost across the country from the November election, but in case we were getting too comfortable with good news, Judge Robert C. Jones has come along and knocked the chips down in Nevada. Jones, a federal district judge appointed by George W. Bush, ruled late last month that Nevada disallowing same-sex couples to marry was totally cool with him. Jones found that the U.S. Constitution’s guarantee of equal protection under the laws was not intended for homos and that the people of Nevada were right to “(maintain) statutes that reserve the institution of civil marriage to one-man–one-woman relationships.” His reasoning? To save the human race from destruction, of course. “The perpetuation of the human race depends upon traditional procreation between men and women,” Jones wrote in his ruling, after he said basically that adoption is for losers. Also, according to Jones, gays and lesbians do not face discrimination, which I guess means that discriminating against them when it comes to marriage equality is no big deal? “Homosexuals have not historically been denied the right to vote, the right to serve on juries, or the right to own property,” Jones continued. Because those are the only areas in which discrimination counts, I guess. Oh, and Jones said, because gays won a couple of ballot measures in the 2012 election, “It simply cannot be seriously maintained, in light of these and other recent democratic victories, that homosexuals do not have the ability to protect themselves from discrimination through democratic processes such that extraordinary protection from majoritarian processes is appropriate.” In other words, grow a pair, gays. You
won a couple rounds of marriage equality poker, now get lost. Never mind the fact that there are a couple of right-wing nuts waiting for you outside with a baseball bat who will gladly relieve you of your winnings. But hey, as long as not everybody wants to smash your heads in, you’ve got nothing to complain about. But, of course, Jones was just thinking about “the family.” And by that I mean heterosexuals, obviously. Everybody knows that same-sex couples are just roommates. Jones wrote in his ruling, “Because the family is the basic societal unit, the state could have validly reasoned that the consequences of altering the traditional definition “The perpetuation of civil marof the human riage could be severe.” race depends Hmm… upon traditional the state procreation could have reasoned between men and such a thing, women.” but validly? Me thinks not. I’ll use Massachusetts as Exhibit A: gay folks getting hitched there have not caused the crumbling of the Commonwealth. But I suspect Jones doesn’t pay much mind to the nondestructive results in liberal cesspools that allow same-sex couples to wed. He wrote: “It is conceivable that a meaningful percentage of heterosexual persons would cease to value the civil institution as highly as they previously had and hence enter into it less frequently ... because they no longer wish to be associated with the civil institution as redefined.” Got that? If gays and lesbians can get married, then heterosexuals will say “fuck it” and just live in sin the rest of their lives. What a wise and sound argument. You really can’t argue with logic like that. Because it isn’t logic — it’s lunacy. Q
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january, 2013 | issue 214 | gaysaltlake.com
a mom’s view
A mom’s dos and don’ts by Leesa Myers leesa@qsaltlake.com
As a
wedding officiate and interfaith minister, I have the pleasure of meeting with couples to help them create their dream wedding. Gay, lesbian and transgender people in Utah cannot legally marry. That does not stop me from performing commitment ceremonies. When I do, I create a certificate that is signed by me, the couple and their witnesses. I also advise them to go to an attorney and have legal documents created that gives each other power of attorney to make decisions in the event the other cannot. During these interviews with gay and lesbian couples I have learned a few dos and don’ts that I would like to share:
Do ask the couple In a marriage ceremony, most of my couples like to be referred to as wife or husband and introduced that way to the world. But do not to presume that is always the case. At the Pride Festival this year, I was helping in the Utah Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce I do not believe booth, a volunteer any of us enjoy came up to me being put into a and nervously category said, “I do not know how to ask you this question ...” I told her to just ask. She wanted to know how to introduce her sister and partner, should she say this is my sister’s girlfriend or partner or just say her name. I told her to ask her sister, that she will appreciate that you want to respect her.
Don’t categorize Everyone is different, it does not matter your sexual orientation, we are all unique and I do not believe any of us enjoy being put into a category. My son, Jay, helps me with this one. He takes offense when
that happens and he has reminded me of it several times. I asked him once when I had heard someone refer to as a “gay hag,” which is a woman that hangs around mostly gay men. Jay said that it is usually an unattractive woman, and it is the gay men that are making fun of them. He expressed how angry it makes him when he overhears men making fun of women that way.
Do acceptance, not tolerance This one is for me, I do not like the word tolerance. To me it means you have no choice but to put up with something you do not agree with. I feel like you are being a martyr, “Aren’t I great, because I am tolerating something I do not agree with.” Acceptance is loving: I may not understand, but I honor you and accept that we have differences.
Mom's View • Mom’s, when your children came to you and said; I am gay, I am lesbian, I am transgender, I am bi-sexual. • What was your first thought? • Where did you go for help or answers? • Who was your support?
Mom’s View is being launched as a BlogTalkRadio podcast, along with a web-site full of resources and answers.
I am asking for YOUR help to make this launch a reality! http://indiegogo.com/momsview
Do community activities To understand the LGBT community, get involved with the community. You will find in most cases a loving and accepting community of incredible men and women. If you have a business straight or gay, or as an individual and would like to network with businesses, join the Utah Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, utahgaychamber.org. Another great organization is the Utah Pride Center, they have tons of resources available and different activities to help you understand more about the LGBT community. There is also Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, that has education and programs available. You can also help create a new program with Mom’s View Podcast at indiegogo.com/momsview. Bottom line here, moms and dads, get involved and you will understand that the only race there is, is the human race, no separation. We all want to be loved and accepted for being who we are. Leesa@LeesaMyers.com
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24 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | VIEWS
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
queer shift
Needs Shift “I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived.” —Henry David Thoreau by CHarles Lynn Frost charles@qsaltlake.com
Thoreau
is one of my favorite writers, along with Ralph Waldo Emerson, Louisa May Alcott, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Walt Whitman, Emily Dickinson and others who proffered transcendentalism. Some have speculated, convincingly so,
that Thoreau was gay, along with other notaries — Leonardo DaVinci, William Shakespeare, and most recently suspected, Abraham Lincoln. Hell, I boldly claim them all for Team Queer, and were I to invite personalities from history for that special hypotheti-
cal dinner party, I would have questions for each of them. Kathleen Cahill’s marvelous production of CHARM that was produced two years ago at Salt Lake Acting Company featured all these transcendentalists, and Robert Scott Smith played a wonderfully fascinating Thoreau. Thoreau was a person who wrote often about living a life on your terms — a deliberate life. Hmmmmm? Queer people. Taking 100 percent responsibility for a deliberate life, having one’s own needs fully met while not wanting, wishing or hoping that another, several others, organizations, the Internet, government, whatever take that accountability. Claiming, stating, attracting what you want, and then going about creating the mindset and the conditions necessary to get those amazing, self-defined, luminous needs met. FACT! I struggle with truly knowing myself, constantly owning my reality. I regularly have to kick my own ass and force myself to remember that was then, this is now. I typically find that I have to move myself through a process of finding my own peace, releasing the past, identifying what I truly need, and then going about getting the need(s) met. Why is it that some people in this lifetime evolve and live that deliberate life, while others simply don’t? I’d like to suggest taking responsibility, and not resisting ourselves and what we really value in life. This resistance upsets not only our sense of serenity and peace, but serves
no purpose. If we can release the need to control the situation, then we can allow it to be as it is, unfold, happen for us and we can move on, learn and the best — evolve. This self ownership and success comes down to getting the same five basic human needs met. 1. Physical needs: Sexual, nourishment, shelter, financial and activity. 2. Intellectual needs: Learning, evolving, growing and expanding the mind. 3. Social needs: Belonging, traveling, networking, connecting and making a difference. 4. Emotional needs: Interpersonal purpose, relationships, friendship, love, support and meaningful interaction. 5. Spiritual needs: Feeding of the soul, enlightenment, resonance, connectivity and self-awareness. If you want to create a more deliberate life, might I suggest the ability to do just that using these five core needs. Balance is also there, as is renewal, reinvention and rejuvenation. Being fully alive too! I attempt to blend at least two or more of them together if I want to create change or a wonderful memory for myself, my relationship, my world. There are weekends that are carved out and reserved, and the only goal is to tap into these core needs in as many ways possible; those very weekends become the most fulfilling. Let’s raise a glass to deliberate living, a life informed, a life where everyone is in charge of taking care of their own needs. Q
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january, 2013 | issue 214 | gaysaltlake.com
who’s your daddy?
It Gets Better by Christopher Katis christopher@qsaltlake.com
The other
day I was taking the boys to my parents when, on a whim, I drove down a street a near the one I grew up on. My kids are still young enough to find tours of dad’s childhood interesting rather than excruciating. So as we headed down the street, I pointed out my sixth grade teacher’s house, where my friend Clay lived, the mayor’s house. You get the picture. As we passed a small cul-de-sac filled with duplexes, I debated whether or not I should tell
I know that suicide is a complicated matter that can stem from a multitude of triggers the boys that’s where the haunted house used to be. It had been an old farm house set back from the street in the middle of a couple of acres of what had once been farmland. But by the time I came along, it was an abandoned, dilapidated heap. Nevertheless, every day on my way to and from school, like all the other kids, I dutifully crossed the street rather than risk walking right in front of it. The story went that on a dare, a young teenager tried to spend the night in the house, but when his friends came to retrieve him the following morning, they found his body
hanging from the rafters. A couple of years after the house came down and the duplexes went up, my best friend and I asked his mom if the story was true. She said there was no such thing as ghosts, but a tragic suicide had indeed occurred there. A young man, devastated after his best friend dropped him in favor of a new girlfriend, had hanged himself. She said the young man liked his friend “too much.” It took me a few years to understand what it really meant: a gay teenager had committed suicide. According to The Suicide Prevention Resource Center, depending on the age, 30-40 percent of LGBT teenagers attempt suicide. That’s four times more often than their heterosexual peers. With more than 34,000 suicides a year, it is the third most common cause of death among teenagers. So why am I talking about this? Because it’s the role of every father to protect his children. I just happen to think it’s also the duty of every person to protect every child. Having worked — at least peripherally — in mental health, I know that suicide is a complicated matter that can stem from a multitude of triggers. However, when LGBT students are over three times more likely to say they feel unsafe at school, and 90 percent — NINETY PERCENT — say they’ve been harassed or assaulted at school, it’s not hard to figure out what is the root cause. And that’s why it’s so impor-
tant for every parent, every sibling, every uncle, aunt, cousin, friend and neighbor to stand by LGBT youth. That’s why everyone must stand up and be a voice against homophobia, and for acceptance. That’s why it’s so important that we support organizations like The Trevor Project, a crisis intervention and suicide prevention resource for LGBT young people. They’re the folks behind the “It Gets Better” campaign. If you’re reading this, if you’re a happy, content lesbian,
gay, bisexual, transgender person, you know it does get better. So pay it forward: join me in donating to The Trevor Project at thetrevorproject.org/ onetimegift In the end, I didn’t tell my kids about the haunted house. Honestly, I don’t know if the tragedy associated with that place was true or an urban legend. Besides, I know it gets better. Instead, I decided to focus on the good memories from childhood and showed the boys where the local candy store owner had lived. Q
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26 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | VIEWS
wtf?!
Radio hosts suspended for antitransgender rant Two ESPN Radio hosts sparked outrage after saying transgender people shouldn’t be allowed to play sports. Steve Czaban and Andy Pollin were suspended after going on a rant against trans college basketball player Gabrielle Ludwig. During the broadcast, Czaban said, “Whatever you’ve got to do to scratch that inner itch and quell those inner demons, that’s fine. But don’t go playing sports then. And don’t go playing sports saying ‘but I’ve got the rights of everyone else’.” The hosts also mocked Ludwig’s appearance and referred to using the pronouns “he/she” and “it.” ESPN released a statement condemning the hosts and announced their indefinite suspension. “We strongly believe two of
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
our employees crossed the line when discussing a transsexual person on their program last Thursday. Such intolerance and insensitivity will never be tolerated by this company,” the statement read.
Anti-queer hate crimes on the rise The number of hate crimes reported has decreased by 6 percent since 2010, while antiqueer violence increased by 2.6 percent, according to a new FBI report. Of the 6,222 hate crimes reported in 2011, 1,508 were based on sexual orientation or gender identity, up from 1,470 in 2010. Approximately 20 percent of all hate crimes were motivated by sexual orientation or gender identity, according to the report. Men were more often victims than women. There were 68 hate crimes reported in Utah, 14 of which were motivated by sexual orientation.
like Uruguay on track to legalize marriage equality The Uruguay House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved a bill legalizing same-sex marriage. The measure will move to the senate where it is likely to pass with a large majority. Lawmakers in the House overwhelmingly approved of the measure which also clarifies rules for adoption and in-vitro fertilization. The bill removes genderspecific phrasing from marriage contracts. Uruguay is on track to become the second South American country to legalize gay marriage, following in neighboring Argentina’s footsteps.
Bisexual singer lands 6 Grammy nominations Bisexual hip-hop star Frank Ocean leads the Grammy pack this year with six nominations, including record of the year and best new artist. Mumford & Sons, fun., The Black Keys, Jay-Z and Kanye West are also nominated for six awards each. Ocean made a splash when he came out as bisexual shortly before releasing his new album, “channel ORANGE.” Have you “liked” or said “wtf?” to something recently? Submit your ideas to editor@qsaltlake.com for possible inclusion.
by Wednesday, January 16 for our Valentine’s issue valentines@qsaltlake.com
VIEWS | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | 27
january, 2013 | issue 214 | gaysaltlake.com
guest editorial
LGBT Capitol miracle by Mark Segal
It’s magic
time in Washington, D.C., and our LGBT media, bloggers and particularly lobbyists like Human Rights Campaign are not feeling that magic. Most are tripping over themselves to give what they believe should be the LGBT priorities for the Obama administration’s second term. All their suggestions are worthy, but they all miss the Washington magic. They’re looking in the wrong place. Let’s take a cue from the Latino community. It’s the other side of Pennsylvania Avenue we should be focusing on — the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. The Latino community gets the game: Their lobbyists have a focus and make it simple for legislators to understand. For them, it’s the Dream Act. For us, it should be the Employment Nondiscrimination Act. Magic time in D.C. happens rarely. It comes every four to eight years and only when there is a true shift in the populace that one of the political parties begins to look inward to try and find their deficiencies. That magic time usually runs from the election to the end of the current congressional term, since the congressional leadership can count on the majority of outgoing members for their votes in trade for future assistance, and on current members looking for plum positions in the new Congress. ENDA is the only major part of our priority list that is not accomplished. It’s important, since most LGBT Americans are still not protected in employment. Military service-
members are; if you work for the U.S. government you are. To our lobbyists in D.C., isn’t it time to use our political capital for the rest of the people? How to make it happen: It takes three steps. First, ENDA must pass both the House and Senate, then be signed by the president, whose support we already have. We know we also have the support of Democratic leadership and the overwhelming majority of Democrats in the House and Senate. OK, here comes the problem, and a suggestion. From that scenario, you should devise that the hold-up would be in the House of Representatives, whose speaker is Congressman John Boehner. The speaker controls all. If he wishes, legislation will make it to the floor and to a vote. He does not necessarily have to have his name on the legislation. The point is, he has the Republican votes and the authority to get it through the House. And as magic season has it, he’s very much aware of not only the future of Republicans in the House, but those around him who want his job. That, my friends, spells opportunity. Choose your partner and dance. Anyone in for a fox trot with Congressman Cantor? Time for our friends at GOProud and Log Cabin and people like Ken Mehlman to prove themselves. They should either, on their own or with a coalition of organizations, focus like a laser beam on ENDA and Boehner. If you guys don’t have the access, then it’s time for you to stand your ground, as Latinos have with the Dream Act. Ken, raising money
for marriage equality will not wash the blood off your hands, but standing in front of the Capitol at a news conference fighting for nondiscrimination starts you on that path. Here’s the rub: We have about four weeks left of this Congress. Think that is not enough time? Remember the end of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”? That’s all it took, just two years ago. Q Mark Segal, PGN publisher, is the nation’s most-award-winning commentator in LGBT media. He can be reached at mark@ epgn.com.
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28 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | PERSON OF THE YEAR
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
Qsalt lake
PersonS of the year Our Person of the Year has always been someone who had made the greatest impact on Utah’s gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and ally community that year. This year, we name VOLUNTEER LEADERS as the 2012 Persons of the Year. We honor a selection of unpaid volunteers who keep the standard of living for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Utahns very high and very fabulous. Without these individuals, many programs and social groups would collapse, rallies and gatherings wouldn’t be held and the Utah would be a much less fabulous place to live.
Kirk Birkle PHOTOS: PAMELA A. BERRY FilmStudiosPA.com
Kirk Birkle is the president of the Utah Bears, a social group for larger, hairy men and their admirers. He’s helped lead charity drives, social events and organize a weekly coffee mixer. For more information, go to utahbears.com.
january, 2013 | issue 214 | gaysaltlake.com
Why did you get involved with the Utah Bears? I wanted to be part of an organization that provides a place for people to belong, be respected, and gives back to the community—that is the Utah Bears. It is both a social and service organization. It’s a great group of guys who originally came together based on body characteristics and image; now it’s about inclusion and promoting diversity regardless of characteristics and image. In my almost five-year involvement in this group, we have seen our membership and our level of community involvement increase. I consider myself fortunate to find a group I am
PERSON OF THE YEAR | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | 29
proud to belong to, participate in, and lead. Why do you think social groups are important for Utah’s gay community? Social groups can provide a home for people — a place where one feels safe and valued. Additionally, social groups provide a way for individuals to connect and feel a part of their community, based on interests and kinship. If you could have one super power, what would it be and why? The super power I would like would be the ability to turn hate into appreciation, not necessarily acceptance or love — as we need conflict to progress and grow.
Lee Castillo Lee Castillo is involved with several projects benefiting homeless youth in Utah. He’s responsible for raising thousands of dollars for the overnight shelter. What organizations are you currently working with? I do a variety of things for
30 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | PERSON OF THE YEAR
PersonS of the year Volunteers of America Homeless Youth Resource Center and volunteer with the Royal Court of the Golden Spike Empire. I have been a strong advocate for the HYRC. I’ve sorted donations and worked with workshops over the years. This last year I worked with the Pride Center and helped revise and give ideas for state policies that affect queer youth in state’s care. You recently sponsored a fundraiser for the Volunteers of America. How much money did you raise and why did you decide to sponsor that organization? We raised more than $2,300. I attempt to do two fundraisers a year for VOA and their efforts to secure the first overnight shelter for homeless youth. I think a lot of my own struggles finding acceptance and understanding within my own family have lead me to the youth. I identify with their struggle because I’ve had so many. I’ve sofa surfed, stayed with friends and even though I’ve never had to sleep on the streets, I know how it feels to think you are all alone. What’s your biggest fear? My biggest fear is making a client’s life worse than before I was involved. I hope to improve people’s lives. Also I fear being a disappointment to my nieces and nephews.
Aaron Smith
PHOTOS: PAMELA A. BERRY | FilmStudiosPA.com
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
(continued)
Aaron Smith plays an optimal role in the organization of Utah’s Pride Softball League. He spends all year prepping to make each season a huge success. How long have you been involved with the Pride Softball League? I first started participating in the league during its inception in 1995 and have played in 17 of their 22 seasons. I have assisted with running the league since 2006. Why do you think it’s important to have LGBT-inclusive sports groups? It gives us a safe environment to seek out recreational activities with like-minded people with no stress, drama or fear of violence - where we can be ourselves. Another reason is with all the networking leagues and organizations that can cross-promote or sponsor an important event or just get the word out allows us to prop up and support the causes that are so important to us. But most of all, it’s because so many of us know each other and it gives those who are new to Salt Lake a sense of support and can make new friends. It helps us realize we are our most valued asset, and with the organizations we have behind us builds a stronger community. When does next season begin and how can people join a team? Our next season begins Sunday, April 14, and runs through August, with an end-of-season tournament and banquet. Open registration begins Feb. 1 through March 24, location and dates TBD.
a great and welcoming place for everyone. I think the key to QUAC’s enduring appeal is really in its inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. It doesn’t matter how well you swim, there’s a place for you at QUAC! Why is it important to have social and sports groups such as QUAC in the LGBT community? I think social and sport organizations such as QUAC are a vital and vibrant part of any LGBT community. It’s so important that we have a place to belong and provide a place of inclusion for everyone.
Would you rather be rich or famous? Definitely rich, being famous is definitely something I am not too keen on.
If you could choose a super power, what would it be? I’d choose the power to jump into anyone’s head and experience their lives as they do. People fascinate me and I’d love the ability to understand and experience what they experience.
Wes Heaps
Connie Anast
Wes Heaps, former chair of the Queer Utah Aquatic Club, helped lead the club in local and international competitions in 2011. For more information, go to quacquac.org.
Connie Anast is the head of Transgender Education Advocates of Utah. The group serves as a resource for state officials, as well as individuals to learn more about trans issues that affect Utahns.
What’s the key to QUAC’s success? QUAC’s success really is in the enthusiasm and countless unseen hours of effort that all its members put into the organization. QUAC’s board and coaching staff are entirely composed of volunteers who donate their time and effort making it such
What projects or events is TEA of Utah working on now? TEA is gearing up for an exciting year of advocacy and education. Our first focus is to assist the Utah Drivers License Division in streamlining their policies to include transgender individuals. This includes being able to
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NEW YEAR’S BUS Saturday photograph in the hair and clothes they wear every day. This is a daunting task, but one with great promise. We have made considerable gains with the DLD and are partnering with them to create a full training curriculum that will also include a video used across the state for their employees. How long have you been involved with the group? I began transgender advocacy in 2007, slow and small at first, as a friend to the community. One of my best friends in high school came out and began his transition, which was the catalyst for me to begin learning about the trans* community. In 2010, when TEA applied for their non-profit status, I was appointed to the board of directors and served as treasurer. In 2011, I was honored to be appointed as executive director. The position is non-paid, but one I dearly love. As Mara Keisling, director of the National Center for Transgender Equality, says, “You have to be amazed by the work in order to be amazing.” As amazed as I am by trans* advocacy, I certainly hope one day I will be amazing. Would you rather have the superpower to be invisible or to read minds? I would have to say read minds. It sure would come in handy when I need to present for a grant or meet with a Republican! I’m kidding ... kinda.
—Continued on page 32
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32 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | PERSON OF THE YEAR
PersonS of the year
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
(continued)
Vigil. It is held every Nov. 20. This year was the 14th year of this international event, and the 11th year we have held this solemn ceremony in Salt Lake City. This past year 265 people around the world were killed, just because they were transgender, binary gender non-conforming or perceived to be so. There were 15 in the U.S. This is the event that inspired me to start Transgender Education and Awareness Month in 2002, with the help of Darin Hobbs, then-assistant executive director of the Pride Center. If you could have had the starring role in one film already made, which movie would you pick? Probably Better than Chocolate because in that movie, even the older MTF transwoman found a girlfriend.
Dominique Storni Dominique Storni is everywhere. From Transgender Awareness Month events to Queer Lounge at Sundance to rallies and everything in between, Storni is a well-known face in many areas of the community. If you could improve one aspect about Utah’s queer community, what would it be and why? The one thing that most needs improving is the lack of inclusion in our own community. False hierarchies serve only to keep us divided, not united. And divided we will fall. United we will stand. Until we learn to embrace the queerness and gender queerness within our own community, how can we expect heterosexual and cisgender folks to accept us? There is diversity; black and white and everything in between, gay and straight and everything in between, male and female and everything in between. Let us splendor in and embrace the differences and use our diverse strengths to gain full equality for all people. If you could encourage people to attend one function or fundraiser each year, what would it be and why? The one event that is most close to my heart is the Transgender Day of Remembrance Candlelight
in the Bay Area, I became good friends with all of CheerSF and the sister teams of the Pride Cheerleading Association. At SF Pride, I was honored to volunteer with the PCA and took the title of top fundraiser as we were raising money for the AIDS Emergency fund. Since losing my job the week after arriving from Japan, I moved to the Salt Lake area. I took the bold decision to spread the love of the PCA to Salt Lake. I knew Utah already had amazing talent. I took cheerleading classes with 12-yearolds. Thankfully Andrew, Alex, Mike and Wes came on board. I have high hopes for Cheer Salt Lake over the next 10 years. Not only will our talents and skills be top notch, I want us to be considered one of the top entertainment-for-charity groups in the area. Would you rather have fame or money? Money, the reason is not because I want to be able to fly away to my private island on a moment’s notices, but because I know it is better to put your own mask on first before assisting others. Right now, Cheer Salt Lake is operating on a skeletal funds donated by team members through team dues. However, if we had more money to invest in the team, the team would be able to make more for our beneficiaries. As for fame, that will come from our fabulous performances!
Peggy Bon Peggy Bon is an activist and volunteer in Northern Utah. Her sunny disposition and steadfast desire to aid her community’s growth is admirable, to say the least.
Valina Eckley Valina Eckley helped launch Cheer Salt Lake, a queer-inclusive cheer squad that helps raise funds for the Utah AIDS Foundation and other worthy causes. With practices, organization and other tasks, running the cheer group must feel like a full-time job. Why do you do it? After eight years of living in Japan, I decided to come back to America because I was obsessed with Cheer San Francisco and their 30-year history of philanthropic cheerleading. Within my few short months
PHOTOS (EXCEPT STORNI): PAMELA A. BERRY | FilmStudiosPA.com
What groups are you currently helping? The only group I work with presently is Ogden OUTreach Resource Center. And I am passionate about all we’re doing at OUTreach! And there is a lot going on — more than meets the eye! What do you like most about volunteering in Northern Utah? For years and years now, I’ve felt that something should happen in Northern Utah. You shouldn’t have to move to Salt Lake City to participate in life. Without OUTreach, these youth have zilch, nada, nothing. And that isn’t right. Also, a part of what OUTreach is trying to do is change the culture so our youth will have a more hospitable place to live and grow, so they can thrive. And those causing the problem aren’t going to drive to Salt Lake for community conversations.
PERSON OF THE YEAR | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | 33
january, 2013 | issue 214 | gaysaltlake.com
If you were given 24 hours to live, what would you do? I think I’d just ask everyone I love to come to my home and hang out. I’d want to be at my place of abode because I really like my yard, all my flowers and trees, and I’d want to spend my last 24 hours in my yard surrounded by all the people I know and care about.
Logan Brueck Logan Brueck has helped coordinate Utah’s Pride Parade as it has grown by leaps and
What are the biggest challenges facing a queer-inclusive social group in Utah? I have to say that it has to be breaking the stereotypes and being able to perform and fit in with all groups and events. Every performance we do is based on the event that we will be showcased in. We write two drills to each number, a PG-rated and an R-rated, so we can perform them depending on where the event is and to suit our audience. If you were stranded on a desert island and could have one book and the ability to watch one movie, what would they be and why? Book: a cookbook; if I find something to eat I can cook it. If I don’t then I can eat the pictures in the book. Movie: Last Holiday with Queen Latifah. It tells me to live life to the fullest and to be open but loving.
Becky Moss Becky Moss has been involved in local political and non-profit organizations for more than a decade. How long have you been involved with the Stonewall Democrats? Off and on since close to it’s inception. I was lucky enough to serve with David Nelson, Michael Piccardi, Nikki Boyer and now Todd Bennett. Why is the Stonewall Democrats an important group for the community? Utah’s LGBT people and supporters deserve to know about, and participate in, the political process - we provide that access. Especially through a political party that embraces our community. What’s the best way for people to get involved with the Stonewall Democrats? First, vote. Vote at every election, sign up for vote by mail, just vote. Second, check out our website and our Facebook page. Third, attend our monthly board meetings, the second Saturday of every —Continued on page 33
BEST QUEER SUNDANCE COVERAGE
The ROTC is one of the most honored and visible LGBT-inclusive groups in the community. Why do you think it’s been popular? I’m not really sure why, but I’m not going to question it. I think that it’s due to the fact that we are such a different style of performance and such a diverse group being made up of straight, gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer members. We also play hard and really work at getting ourselves out there.
QSaltLake.com
bounds each year. He’s also involved with the Righteously Outrageous Twirling Corps. For more information, go to rotcslc.com.
34 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | PERSON OF THE YEAR
PersonS of the year
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
(continued)
our straight equivalent groups and allies, plus open the eyes of those who have never known LGBT people in their closeknit circles.
perform in a circus as a trapeze artist. The beauty and strength to perform death defying tricks in the air always amazed me, and it might also help cure my fear of heights.
What are the biggest challenges queer social groups face in Utah? Some of the biggest challenges for LGBT social groups in Utah include participation in political and social issues that could affect our future rights as individuals and a community. The existence of the Defense of Marriage Act will always cripple us by preventing gay and lesbian couples from taking advantage of basic federal rights and benefits that are only available to straight couples. Our families endure the same (and
month, 10 a.m., Salt Lake Public Library. Fourth, call any board member and attend our events. If there’s not a USD chapter in your county, start one.
DON STEWARD
If you won the lottery, what would you do with the prize? I wouldn’t tell anyone, but I expect that a lot of friends, family, non-profit organizations and total strangers would find financial windfalls.
Roque Salas
Roque Salas plays an intricate role with the Utah Gay Fathers Association and with the Temple Squares, a queer-inclusive square dancing group. He’s also a familiar face at nearly every gay and affirming event in the city. You’ve been involved with the Utah Gay Fathers Association and the Temple Squares. Why do you think social groups are important for Utah’s LGBT community? When my partner and I moved to Utah in 2008, we originated from a very conservative area in northwest Florida where there were almost no LGBT organizations other than a couple bars and gay-friendly churches. Upon discovering the Utah Pride Center and QSaltLake, we were overwhelmed with the many clubs and groups to choose in Salt Lake City and the surrounding areas. We think these social groups are important to the entire community as beacons of hope that LGBT people can thrive and live in concert with
sometimes more) hardships and challenges of everyday life, but are not given the same benefits to help us financially and socially. Our social groups can help pave the way to open hearts and educate the entire state to end stereotypes and prejudice. Exposing ourselves to the public would be an excellent start. And one other challenge for our social groups would be in membership growth. If more of our community participate in these groups, the public can see just how large a percentage of the population consists of LGBT people and that we can make a huge impact to improve our society. If you were to perform in the circus, what would you do? I’ve always wanted to
PHOTOS (EXCEPT STEWARD): PAMELA A. BERRY | FilmStudiosPA.com
Better known to most as former QSaltLake columnist and Matron of Mayhem Ruby Ridge, Don Steward has entertained and provided for the Salt Lake community for decades. What some may not know, however, is his many other volunteer positions beginning in the early days of AIDS. Along with his partner, Dick Dotson, Steward created and ran the Camp Pinecliff Weekend Retreat for people with HIV/ AIDS and their families for 24 years. They also opened a drop-in center for people with AIDS, called Horizon House, in 1989 and started the Living with AIDS Conference at the University of Utah with David Sharpton of the People with AIDS Coalition of Utah. Steward helped bring two showings of the Names Project AIDS Memorial Quilt to Utah and created the Utah AIDS Foundation Food Bank, getting its USDA and Utah Food Bank certifications. He was the Utah Pride Parade Coordinator for three years and was named the Community Volunteer of the Year in 2005. He and Dick also rescued and found permanent homes for 389 bloodhounds, walker hounds and basset hounds. Interestingly, he also attended the Mormon Tabernacle Choir Christmas Concert as a guest of President Hinckley. Q
Support the member businesses of the
because they support you! The Chamber is open to corporations of all sizes, sole proprietors and independent agents and is a great place to meet other professionals, make business contacts, promote your business and work for the enhancement of Utah’s gay and lesbian community.
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT For nearly two decades, Le Croissant Catering has been a Utah staple. More than just fantastic food with only the freshest of ingredients and a fantastic presentation, the company focuses on outstanding customer service, said owner and manager Kelly Lake. “Our first and most important priority is to give our clients an event that they can be proud of,” Lake said. “We want them to be excited about the event even years after it happens.” Le Croissant has been an active member of the Utah Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Com-
For all of your event and catering needs 801.466.2537 • lecroissantcatering.com
merce since its inception. They have also provided the catering for several of QSaltLake’s wedding giveaways. Le Croissant does much more than weddings and has provided catering services to more than 1,000 different events. “We pretty much do it all,” Lake said. “From the smallest gatherings to large corporate parties, we have experience in all kinds of events. And we put just as much love into box lunches as we do into our large parties.” To schedule an event or for more information go to www.LeCroissantCatering.com or call 801-466-2537.
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36 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | YEAR IN REVIEW
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
2012 in Review March
This California teen called for a boycott of Girl Scout cookies after the organization accepted a transgender child to a Colorado troop.
The first Utah Gay and Lesbian Business Expo featured guest speakers, break-out sessions, business to nonprofit relations, networking and much more. Dozens of people gathered over the weekend to show the business strength and savvy of Utah’s queer community. In California, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a federal court ruling declaring California’s ban on gay marriage unconstitutional.
January As the Utah Legislature launched its new session, Sen. Ben McAdams, D-Salt Lake City, introduced an anti-bias prohibiting housing and employment discrimination against on the basis of gender identity or sexual orientation. The new bill also had a new sponsor: freshman Rep. Derek Brown, a Cottonwood Heights Republican. Elsewhere, Harrisville, Utah became the 14th municipality in Utah to pass an anti-bias ordinance. The city council voted unanimously to pass the ordinance.
February A bill supporting abstinence-only educa tion and banning the advocacy of contraception and homosexuality cleared the Utah Legislature. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Bill Wright, R-Holden, also allows schools to opt out of sex education and not offer courses. After extreme public pressure, Gov. Gary Herbert vetoed the bill. In Logan, a group providing support to families and friends of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people started meeting regularly in Cache Valley. The group eventually became Utah’s fifth branch of Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays.
QSaltLake gave weddings to these lucky couples
In a move to show Utah Valley University administration that the student body supports adopting a nondiscrimination policy that includes protections for queers, dozens of students and faculty attended a Rally for Equality. The protest comes after an email asking students to vote against an openly gay candidate for school office circulated the campus.
April Springdale, Utah’s Town Council unanimously passed an ordinance protecting against bias based on sexual orientation and gender identity in the workplace and housing on April 11. A man attempted to force his way into Club Try-Angles. Salt Lake City Police dispatchers received multiple calls throughout the day about a man carrying a rifle case and trespassing on private property in the area of Club Try-Angles. Donald Bickell, 51, tried to enter the bar carrying the rifle case, police said. As he was turned away by the doorman, Matt Mulliner,
Bickell put the rifle case up to Mulliner’s face and told him, “I am about to end your life,” Mulliner said. Utah’s only openly gay legislator, Brian Doughty, lost his bid for House District 26 to Angela Romero after he was redistricted out of House District 30.
May More than 100 people gathered in Ogden for a community gathering after the suicide of a young gay man for a candlelight vigil and to discuss the harms of bullying. Barack Obama voiced his support for marriage equality for all Americans. In a reversal of opinion based on what he called an “evolution,” Obama said conversations with his staff members, gay and lesbian service members, and with his family led him to back a platform of full marriage equality. “At a certain point I’ve concluded that for me personally, it is important for me to go ahead and affirm that I think same-sex couples should be able to get married,” Obama said. A crowd of 400 gathered in the Southwestern-themed community of Kayenta in Ivins, Utah, calling for an Equality Evolution. Hosted by Equality Utah, the banquet supported Southern Utah’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.
June With 125 parade entries and more money raised than last year, the Utah Pride Festival was touted as a success. Approximately 5,000 people marched along 200 South in the Utah Pride Parade and tens of thou sands partied on Washington Square in downtown Salt Lake City at the Utah Pride Festival. This year’s parade made national headlines as hundreds of current and former members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints followed Utah Pride Parade Grand Marshal Dustin Lance Black at the head of the procession. A picture book depicting a family with two moms was removed from school library shelves in Davis County after more than 20 parents complained. A panel discussion was hosted about the decision to
YEAR IN REVIEW | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | 37
january, 2013 | issue 214 | gaysaltlake.com
October
remove In Our Mother’s House. Former Log Cabin Republican president Melvin Nimer lost the Salt Lake County Council primary race to Joe Demma.
Shortly after decrying the bullying of gays and lesbians, Mormon Apostle Dallin Oaks called same-sex parenting a “social experiment” and said it left children at a disadvantage. “Children need others to speak for them,” Oaks said. “And they need decisionmakers who put their well-being ahead of selfish adult interests.… Children are also victimized by marriages that do not occur.” A Kamas man was arrested for an assault on a gay couple and the Summit County Sheriff’s Office has charged him with hate crime charges. Travis Gentry, 40, was arrested and booked into the Summit County jail.
July Support of marriage equality is up seven points and support of civil unions is up 18 points in Utah since 2004, according to a new survey conducted by the Brigham Young University’s Center for the Study of Elections and Democracy. While 72 percent of Utahns still oppose same-sex marriage, 43 percent support civil unions and 28 percent support full marriage rights. The widely publicized study that seemed to raise doubts about the parenting abilities of gay couples was severely flawed and had many disqualifying problems, according to a new audit by the same journal that published it. An analysis of the study will be printed in the November issue of the journal, Social Science Research. The article points out conflicts of interest among the reviews and states that “scholars who should have known better failed to recuse themselves from the review process.”
August
After Utah’s NBC affiliate, KSL, refused to air its new situational comedy about a gay couple, The New Normal, CW30 announced it will air the show. KSL is owned and operated by the for-profit branch of the Mormon Church and has elected not to air other shows, including Saturday Night Live and Playboy Club. The director of The Matrix and Cloud Atlas is the first major Hollywood director to publicly come out as transgender. Lana Wachowski revealed she has transitioned while promoting her new film starring Tom Hanks and Halle Berry. Throngs of supporters packed Chickfil-A locations around the nation, on a day designated by Christian activists to support the restaurant owner’s anti-gay stances. Thousands attended QSaltLake’s Lagoon Day
Utah’s second Undie Run broke its own Guinness world record with 2,270 nearly naked runners
September The 11th annual Equality Utah Allies Dinner marked more than a decade of growth and accomplishment. The sold-out dinner attracted an estimated 2,000 people. This year’s honorees included former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman and his wife, Mary Kaye for their outspoken support of civil unions in Utah. People in Sanpete County held an open house to begin assessing the need for, and potential viability of, a PFLAG branch in the area. Dozens of people gathered to discuss the purpose and mission of the group. More than 100 people gathered in Jordan Park to celebrate inclusion and individuality as part of the second annual Pink Dot Utah. The celebration included performances by local bands, speeches by Mormon Church members and culminated with the group gathering together to form a large dot.
November After Sen. Ben McAdams won the Salt Lake County mayoral race four gay Utahns announced plans to run for his soon-tobe-vacated state senate seat. Utah Democratic Party Chair Jim Dabakis, Rep. Brian Doughty, Will Carlson and Weston Clark all announced plans to run for Senate District 2. In celebration of Transgender Awareness Month, the Utah Pride Center and Transgender Education Advocates of Utah hosted a series of activities through the month of November.
December The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear two cases concerning gay marriage. The justices will consider California’s ban on gay marriage and the anti-gay Defense of Marriage Act. The hearings will not be held until spring 2013. The Mormon Church launched a website — mormonsandgays.org — that detailed beliefs about homosexuality. The site is a compilation of teachings and was not a reversal of policy.
38 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | A&E
arts
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
Peter Jackson films is sure to make us laugh even though it’s rude to pick on midgets ... huh!
15 things you should do this month (More events at gaysaltlake.com.) I’ve told you a little about my friend Jeremy who raises chickens in rural Nebraska. Well, he was in town last week for a quick visit before jetting off to some pretentious 3-week cruise from Chile to Easter Island to the Philippines. Who knew cock is so freakin’ valuable! Anyhoo, it was fabulous to see him even though he griped incessantly about forgetting his jewelry and how much usage he was getting from his phone. God forbid he spare his friends gaudy blingbling and just revel in how loved he really is. I adore the man, but he better bring me home an Easter egg.
4friday
The Utah Symphony presents Water Music, a celebration of George Frideric Handel. Water Music is a beautiful collection of orchestral movements divided into three suites. The program includes other enchanting pieces by Bach, Vivaldi and Mendelssohn. Nicholas McGegan conducts. 8pm, through Wednesday, Abravanel Hall, 123 W. South Temple. Tickets $2767, 801-355-ARTS or attix.org.
The Wasatch Men & boys of Leather have really made a name for themselves among fetishists and other alike with their monthly Leather and Gear Night. The social event has grown leopardprints and bondage over the last year. So, put down that boring vanilla ice cream ... or take it with you, cause tonight’s gonna get kinky! 9pm, Club Try-Angles, 251 W. 900 S., 801-364-3203 or clubtry-angles.com.
5saturday
Deny it all you want but I know you’re secretly in love with Justin Bieber ... please, he’s a young, skinny twink with a lot of money, who can blame you!
Plus, he’s a momma’s boy, and like you aren’t — pshaw! So go to the show, it’ll be fun and exhilarating just knowing you’re there under false, sexual pretense. I predict JB will be the next JT, just sayin’! BTW, do you agree that David Willeitner looks almost twin-like to JB? Hmmm! 7pm, Energy Solutions Arena, 301 W. South Temple. Tickets $36.50-76.50, 801-467-8499 or smithstix.com.
9wednesday
As a precursor to the Sundance Film Festival, over 25 musicians and bands will land in Park City and Salt Lake City for three days of music revolution. The Lunar Independent Music Festival includes such artists as The Upset Victory, Neverwake, K’Sandra, Covela and Shyboy. Times and venues vary in Salt Lake City and Park City. Tickets $5-10 or $50 festival pass, lunarmusicfest.com.
10 thursday
I think short is the new sexy. I mean look at Elmo and Danny DeVito ... oh, and hobbits! Some have been anticipating The Hobbit flick because, they’re spry, short and have big feet, duh! But Desert Star is taking our love for these tree-dwellers to a new level with Kicking the Hobbit, Bored of the Rings. I’m not sure whether to be hurt or to giggle. Anyhoo, this parody, slightly derived on the
Times vary, through Mar. 23, Desert Star Playhouse., 4861 S. State St., Murray. Tickets $9.95-17.95, 801-266-2600 or desertstar.biz.
11friday
The cute guys of the indie rock band Augustana, with new member David Lamoreaux, return to Salt Lake City tonight, offering an acoustic concert ... hot! With four albums under their belt and hit singles like “Boston” and “Steal Your Heart,” this is sure to be a fabulous concert. Lauren Shera opens. 9pm, Urban Lounge, 241 S. 500 East. Tickets $15, 24tix.com.
12saturday
Hey all you Bendover Bettys, it’s the second Big Gay Fun Bus of the season, yaaaaaay! Don’t miss out on this New Year-themed charter to Wicked Wendover of the West. There will be bingo, prizes, libations and an all-around resolution to not lose our shirts, shoes, socks and skivvies, unless for a good laaaaay! Noon–9pm, pick up at Club Try-Angles, 251 W. 900 South. Tickets $25, 801649-6663 or biggayfunbus.com.
13sunday
Equality Utah’s 12th annual Jazz Brunch fundraiser features the Jennifer Leitham Trio. The renowned bassist recently fully transitioned MtF, and she is the subject of the new documentary film I Stand Corrected. The event will also hold a silent auction. 11am-3pm, Rose Wagner Center, 138 W. Broadway. Limited-seating tickets $65, 801-355-3479 or equalityutah.org.
16wednesday Academy Award-winning actor and multiple Grammy Awardwinning performer, Robin Williams sits down to “chat” with his old friend, comedian, actor, director and author David Steinberg. Steinberg and Williams will discuss a variety of topics such as his films, Mork & Mindy, Hollywood anecdotes, the world
A&E | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | 39
january, 2013 | issue 214 | gaysaltlake.com
JUSTIN BIEBER, See Jan. 5
and instrumental ensemble. Also, there’s a special guest appearance by world-renowned interpreter of new music Tony Arnold. 3-5pm, Libby Gardner Hall, 1375 Presidents Circle, UofU. Tickets $15–18, 1-801-581-7100 or kingtix.com.
25friday
The Beast of SB Dance is a sampler concert of highlights from past shows and shows that they are currently creating. It’s a taste test of their “beasts” - funny, terrible and feisty little pieces, performed by an amazing pick-up crew of top dancers and actors. Always a crowd-pleaser. Times vary, through Jan. 27, Black Box Theatre, Rose Wagner Center, 138 W. Broadway. Tickets $15, 801-355-ARTS or arttix.org.
30wednesday
of stand up comedy and his own life, all of which will be given the very funny and poignant Robin Williams treatment. 7:30pm, Kingsbury Hall, 1395 E. Presidents Circle, UofU. Tickets $80-150 or VIP $375, 801-581-7100 or kingtix.com.
19saturday
The New-York based Public Theater’s Tony-winning production of Hair is on tour across the nation. This exuberant musical about a group of young Americans searching for peace and love in a turbulent time strikes a resonant chord with audiences young and old. Hair features an extraordinary cast and unforgettable songs, including “Aquarius,” “Let the Sun Shine In” and “Good Morning, Starshine.” Times vary, through Sunday, 1395 E. Presidents Circle, UofU. Tickets $3057.50, 801-581-7100 or kingtix.com.
The Utah Opera presents Florencia en el Amazonas, an two-act opera composed by
Daniel Catán. It contains elements of magical realism, in the style of Nobel Prize-winning author Gabriel Garcia Márquez. Spoiler Alert: Amazon River, steamboat, cholera. 7:30, through Jan. 27, Capitol Theatre, 50 W. 200 S. Tickets $15-83, 801-355-ARTS or arttix.org.
The classic French farce of marital mayhem, A Flea in Her Ear, is Georges Feydeau’s masterpiece of mistaken identities. A wife suspects that her husband is having an affair. With the help of her best friend, she concocts a plan to expose Victor’s dalliance at the Hotel Coq d’Or to confirm her suspicions. The plan misfires and sets in motion a plan that turns into pandemonium and comic disaster, erupting into a barrage of hilarity and romantic turmoil. 7:30pm, through Feb. 10, Babcock Theatre, 300 S. 1400 E., UofU. Tickets $15, 801-581-7100 or kingtix.com.
Wow, this would make a fabulous Beiber/Timberlake film! Times vary, through Feb. 2, Jeanne Wagner Theatre, Rose Wagner Center, 138 W. Broadway. Tickets $17-21, 801355-ARTS or arttix.og.
Upcoming Dec. 31 Kristin Chenoweth @Eccles Center, Park City Mar. 9 Joan Rivers @Kingsbury Hall Mar. 28 KMFDM @The Depot
save the date Email arts@qsaltlake.com
January 17–27
Sundance Film Festival sundance.org/festival FEBRUARY 15–17
QUAC Ski-N-Swim quacquac.org FEBRUARY 16
Tardi Mardi Big Gay Fun Bus biggayfunbus.com FEBRUARY 21–24
20sunday
Nova Chamber Music Series presents New Horizons, Then and Now. This concert celebrates the centennial of the premiere of the late composer Arnold Schoenberg’s expressionistic tour de force, Pierrot Lunaire. Schoenberg’s seminal work is paired with a brilliant and moving cycle by American composer Jason Eckardt for soprano
31thursday
The Pickleville Playhouse, located in lovely Garden City, Utah (just a horse’s neigh from the shore of Bear Lake), is mozying to Salt Lake City with The Hanging of El Bandito. This musical comedy follows the adventure of the “most guapo villain in the world,” as he seeks revenge after nearly meeting his end at the hand of a brave western lawman.
Elevation: Park City Gay Ski Week utahgayski.com FEBRUARY 1–MARCH 24
Pride Softball League Registration prideleague.com may 31–june 2
Utah Pride Festival utahpridefestival.org
40 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | A&E
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
film Kill Your Darlings
USA (Director: John Krokidas, Screenwriters: Austin Bunn, John Krokidas)
Afternoon Delight
USA (Director and screenwriter: Jill Soloway)
Come January 17, 2013, the snow-packed (Redford willing) streets of Park City will be abuzz with faux-furred
In this sexy, dark comedy, a lost L.A. housewife puts her idyllic hipster life in jeopardy when she tries to rescue a stripper by taking her in as a live-in nanny. Cast: Kathryn Hahn, Juno Temple, Josh Radnor, Jane Lynch
An untold story of murder that brought together a young Allen Ginsberg, Jack Kerouac and William Burroughs at Columbia University in 1944, providing the spark that led to the birth of an entire generation – their Beat revolution. Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Dane DeHann, Ben Foster, Michael C. Hall, Jack Huston, Elizabeth Olsen
celebrities, film aficionados, stalkers and a giggle of Touchy Feely
gays. This year the Sundance Film Festival has selected a
USA (Director and screenwriter: Lynn Shelton)
standard list of films from up and coming filmmakers that continues to set the standard in independent film making.
C.O.G.
LGBT themes, actors, filmmakers and personae are once again
In the first ever film adaptation of David Sedaris’ work, a cocky young man travels to Oregon to work on an apple farm. Out of his element, he finds his lifestyle and notions being picked apart by everyone who crosses his path. Cast: Jonathan Groff, Denis O’Hare, Corey Stoll, Dean Stockwell, Casey Wilson, Troian Bellisario
in demand. Openly gay, lesbian and bisexual people associated with this festival include David Sedaris, Allen Ginsberg (yes, again!), Megan Mullally, John Cameron Mitchell, Jim McGreevey and Evan Rachel Wood. Plus some of our festival favorites return, including James Franco and Joseph Gordon-Levitt (in his directorial debut). One newcomer to the festival is the ultra sexy Wentworth Miller (TV’s Prison Break), who’s screenplay Stoker premieres here. Following
is
featuring
LGBT
other
films
a
list
that
of
actors
LGBT-themed and
QSaltLake
films,
films
filmmakers,
and
recommends.
Info at sundance.org/festival. The Sundance Film Festival runs Jan. 17-27
Enjoy!
USA (Director and screenwriter: Kyle Patrick Alvarez)
A massage therapist is unable to do her job when stricken with a mysterious and sudden aversion to bodily contact. Meanwhile, her uptight brother’s foundering dental practice receives new life when clients seek out his “healing touch.” Cast: Rosemarie DeWitt, Allison Janney, Ron Livingston, Scoot McNairy, Ellen Page, Josh Pais
Concussion
USA (Director and screenwriter: Stacie Passon)
After a blow to the head, Abby decides she can’t do it anymore. Her life just can’t be only about the house, the kids and the wife. She needs more: she needs to be Eleanor. Cast: Robin Weigert, Maggie Siff, Johnathan Tchaikovsky, Julie Fain Lawrence, Emily Kinney, Laila Robins
Toy’s House
USA (Director: Jordan Vogt-Roberts, Screenwriter: Chris Galletta)
Three unhappy teenage boys flee to the wilderness where they build a makeshift house and live off the land as masters of their own destiny. Or at least that’s the plan. Cast: Nick Robinson, Gabriel Basso, Moises Arias, Nick Offerman, Megan Mullally, Alison Brie
january, 2013 | issue 214 | gaysaltlake.com
QUEER GUIDE TO SUNDANCE | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | 41
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USA (Director: Marta Cunningham)
After Tiller
USA (Directors: Martha Shane, Lana Wilson)
Since the assassination of Dr. George Tiller in 2009, only four doctors in the country provide late-term abortions. With unprecedented access, After Tiller goes inside the lives of these physicians working at the center of the storm.
In 2008, eighth-grader Brandon McInerney shot classmate Larry King at point blank range. Unraveling this tragedy from point of impact, the film reveals the heartbreaking circumstances that led to the shocking crime as well as its startling aftermath.
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1. Federal Bureau of Investigation, 2008 National Crime Report http://www.fbi.gov/news/stories/2009/june/ucr_stats060109 2. http://bjs.ojp.usdoj.gov/contentpub/press/vdhbpr.cfm 3. FBI, 2008 National Crime Report http://www.fbi.gov/news/stories/2009/june/ucr_stats060109 4. http://www.beyondidentitytheft.com/home-security-statistics.html
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Blood Brother
USA (Director: Steve Hoover)
Rocky went to India as a disillusioned tourist. When he met a group of children with HIV, he decided to stay. He never could have imagined the obstacles he’d face, or the love he’d find.
Crystal Fairy
Chile (Director and screenwriter: Sebastián Silva)
Jamie invites a stranger to join a road trip to Chile. The woman’s free and esoteric nature clashes with Jamie’s acidic, self-absorbed personality as they head into the desert for a Mescaline-fueled psychedelic trip. Cast: Michael Cera, Gabby Hoffmann, Juan Andrés Silva, José Miguel Silva, Agustín Silva. World Premiere. DAY ONE FILM
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God Loves Uganda
USA (Director: Roger Ross Williams)
A powerful exploration of the evangelical campaign to infuse African culture with values imported from America’s Christian Right. The film follows American and Ugandan religious leaders fighting “sexual immorality” and missionaries trying to convince Ugandans to follow biblical law.
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New Zealand (Directors: Mark Albiston, Louis Sutherland, Screenwriters: Louis Sutherland, Mark Albiston)
New Zealand, 1981: Seduced by a charismatic career criminal, teenager Willie must choose where his loyalty lies – with a family of shoplifters or his own blood. Cast: Kevin Paulo, Julian Dennison, Jacek Koman, Alistair Browning. World Premiere
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42 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | QUEER GUIDE TO SUNDANCE
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
the 2002 Beltway sniper attacks. Cast: Isaiah Washington, Tequan Richmond, Joey Lauren Adams, Tim Blake Nelson, Cassandra Freeman, Leo Fitzpatrick
fugitive and form a pact to help him evade the bounty hunters on his trail and reunite him with his true love. Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Tye Sheridan, Jacob Lofland, Reese Witherspoon. North American Premier
Pussy Riot – A Punk Prayer
Russian Federation, UK (Directors: Mike Lerner, Maxim Pozdorovkin)
CONTINUED
Three young women face seven years in a Russian prison for a satirical performance in a Moscow cathedral. But who is really on trial: the three young artists or the society they live in? World Premiere
The Machine Which Makes Everything Disappear Georgia, Germany (Director: Tinatin Gurchiani)
A film director casting a 15-23-year-old protagonist visits villages and cities to meet people who answer her call. She follows those who prove to be interesting enough through various dramatic and funny situations. North American Premiere
The Moo Man
In mid-1990s America, we follow the tragic sex life of Jolie Jolson, a wannabe thug (and great-great-grandson of legendary vaudevillian Al Jolson) in suburban DC as he strives to become something he can never be – black. Cast: Tyler Ross, Shareeka Epps, Georgia Ford, Eshan Bay, Leo Fitzpatrick, Danny Burstein
Who is Dayani Cristal?
UK (Director: Marc Silver)
An anonymous body in the Arizona desert sparks the beginning of a real-life human drama. The search for its identity leads us across a continent to seek out the people left behind and the meaning of a mysterious tattoo. World Premiere. DAY ONE FILM
<=>
Pure, bold works distinguished by an innovative, forward-thinking approach to storytelling. Digital technology paired with unfettered creativity proves the films selected in this section will inform a “greater” next wave in American cinema.
Pit Stop
USA (Director: Yen Tan, Screenwriters: Yen Tan, David Lowery)
Two working-class gay men in a small Texas town and a love that isn’t quite out of reach. Cast: Bill Heck, Marcus DeAnda, Amy Seimetz, John Merriman, Alfredo Maduro, Corby Sullivan
Regardless of where these films have played throughout the world, the Spotlight program is a tribute to the cinema we love.
UK (Directors: Andy Heathcote, Heike Bachelier) A year in the life of heroic farmer
Steve, scene stealing Ida (queen of the herd), and a supporting cast of 55 cows. When Ida falls ill, Steve’s optimism is challenged and their whole way of life is at stake. World Premiere
Milkshake
USA (Director: David Andalman, Screenwriters: David Andalman, Mariko Munro)
Blue Caprice
USA (Director: Alexandre Moors, Screenwriters: R.F.I Porto, Alexandre Moors)
An abandoned boy is lured to America and drawn into the shadow of a dangerous father figure in this film inspired by the real life events that led to
Mud
USA (Director, screenwriter: Jeff Nichols)
Two teenage boys encounter a
No
Chile, USA (Director: Pablo Larraín, Screenwriter: Pedro Peirano)
When Chilean military dictator Augusto Pinochet calls for a referendum to decide his permanence in power, the opposition persuades a young advertising executive to head its campaign. With limited resources and under scrutiny, he conceives a plan to win the election. Cast: Gael García Bernal, Alfredo Castro, Antonia Zegers, Luis Gnecco, Marcial Tagle, Néstor Cantillana
From horror flicks to comedies to works that defy any genre, these unruly films will keep you edgeseated and wide awake. Each is a world premiere.
Ass Backwards
USA (Director: Chris Nelson, Screenwriters: June Diane Raphael, Casey Wilson)
Loveable losers Kate and Chloe take a road trip back to their hometown to claim the beauty pageant crown that eluded them as children, only to discover what really counts: friendship. Cast: June Diane Raphael, Casey Wilson, Vincent D’Onofrio, Alicia Silverstone, Jon Cryer, Brian Geraghty.
january, 2013 | issue 214 | gaysaltlake.com
Parker family. Cast: Bill Sage, Ambyr Childers, Julia Garner, Michael Parks, Wyatt Russell, Kelly McGillis
Kink (documentary)
USA (Director: Christina Voros)
A story of sex, submission and big business is told through the eyes of the unlikely pornographers whose 9-to-5 work days are spent within the confines of the San Francisco Armory building, home to the porn production facilities of Kink.com.
QUEER GUIDE TO SUNDANCE | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | 43
footage. Cast: Val Lauren, James Franco, Travis Mathews, Christian Patrick, Brenden Gregory.
INSTALLATIONS
New Frontier highlights work that celebrates experimentation and the expansion of cinema culture through the convergence of film, art, and new media technology.
America. Shot on location in Detroit, Michigan, and Marfa, Texas, this unique film features fantastic performances by Ben Foster, Stella Schnabel, and Sue Galloway, and a soundtrack by Marfa local punk band Solid Waste.
A showcase of world premieres of some of the most highly anticipated dramatic films of the coming year.
FILMS
North of South, West of East Interior. Leather Bar.
USA (Directors: Travis Mathews, James Franco, Screenwriter: Travis Mathews)
We Are What We Are
USA (Director: Jim Mickle, Screenwriters: Nick Damici, Jim Mickle)
A devastating storm washes up clues that lead authorities closer and closer to the cannibalistic
To avoid an X rating, it’s rumored that 40 minutes of gay S&M footage was cut from the controversial 1980 film, Cruising. Filmmakers James Franco and Travis Mathews re-imagine the lost
Artist: Meredith DanluckPhotographer
North of South, West of East enhances narrative storytelling by wrapping the film around the entire room. Presented to an audience in swivel chairs, Meredith Danluck’s four-channel narrative feature spools a darkly humorous tale of small-town folks as they try to make sense of a post-hope
Don Jon’s Addiction
USA (Director and screenwriter: Joseph Gordon-Levitt)
In Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s charming directorial debut, a selfish modern-day Don Juan attempts to change his ways. Cast: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Scarlett Johansson, Julianne Moore, Tony Danza, Glenne Headly, Rob Brown
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gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
background to make an unbelievable run in the NBA. State high school champion, all-Ivy League at Harvard, undrafted by the NBA and unwanted there: his story started long before he landed on Broadway. Stoker
#PostModeM
USA (Director: Park Chan-Wook, Screenwriter: Wentworth Miller)
CONTINUED
Lovelace
After India’s father dies in an auto accident, her Uncle Charlie comes to live with her and her mother, Evelyn. Soon after his arrival, India suspects that this mysterious, charming man has ulterior motives but becomes increasingly infatuated with him. Cast: Mia Wasikowska, Matthew Goode, Dermot Mulroney, Jacki Weaver, Nicole Kidman
USA (Directors: Rob Epstein, Jeffrey Friedman, Screenwriter: Andy Bellin)
Deep Throat, the first pornographic feature film to be a mainstream success, was an international sensation in 1972 and made its star, Linda Lovelace, a media darling. Years later the “poster girl for the sexual revolution” revealed a darker side to her story. Cast: Amanda Seyfried, Peter Sarsgaard, Hank Azaria, Adam Brody, James Franco, Sharon Stone
Renowned filmmakers and films about huge subjects comprise this section highlighting our ongoing commitment to documentaries. Each is a world premiere.
USA (Directors and screenwriters: Jillian Mayer, Lucas Leyva)
When I Walk
USA, Canada (Director: Jason DaSilva)
At 25, filmmaker and artist Jason DaSilva finds out he has a severe form of multiple sclerosis. This film shares his personal and grueling journey over the next seven years. Along the way, an unlikely miracle changes everything.
The Apocalypse
USA (Director and screenwriter: Andrew Zuchero)
Four uninspired friends try to come up with a terrific idea for how to spend their Saturday afternoon. ANITA
USA (Director: Freida Mock)
The Necessary Death of Charlie Countryman
USA (Director: Fredrik Bond, Screenwriter: Matt Drake)
Traveling abroad, Charlie Countryman falls for Gabi, a Romanian beauty whose unreachable heart has its origins in Nigel, her violent, charismatic ex. As the darkness of Gabi’s past increasingly envelops him, Charlie resolves to win her heart, or die trying. Cast: Shia LaBeouf, Evan Rachel Wood, Mads Mikkelsen, Rupert Grint, James Buckley, Til Schweiger
Anita Hill, an African-American woman, charges Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas with sexual harassment in explosive Senate hearings in 1991 – bringing sexual politics into the national consciousness and fueling 20 years of international debate on the issues.
A comedic, satirical, sci-fi pop musical based on the theories of Ray Kurzweil and other futurists, #PostModem is the story of two Miami girls and how they deal with technological singularity, as told through a series of cinematic tweets.
The Companion
Peru (Director and screenwriter: Alvaro Delgado-Aparicio)
On the outskirts of Lima, a young prostitute tends to his father, a fallen-from-grace artisan. However, the young man feels that his efforts are never enough. He tries to break free, but his father’s dependence is stronger than his son’s will.
The Cub
USA (Director and screenwriter: Riley Stearns)
Wolves make the best parents.
The Date
Finland (Director and screenwriter: Jenni Toivoniemi)
Karaoke!
USA (Director and screenwriter: Andrew F. Renzi)
On a night out in New York City, a young man tries to avoid his problems. Linsanity
USA (Director: Evan Leong)
Jeremy Lin came from a humble
Tino’s manhood is put to the test in front of two women when he has to host a date for Diablo, the family’s stud cat.
january, 2013 | issue 214 | gaysaltlake.com
QUEER GUIDE TO SUNDANCE | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | 45
You Don’t Know Jack
USA (Director: Morgan Spurlock)
The Battle of amfAR
Jack Andraka, a high school sophomore, has developed a revolutionary new test for pancreatic cancer, proving the future of science is in the hands of our youth.
USA (Directors: Rob Epstein, Jeffrey Friedman, Screenwriter: Sharon Wood)
When AIDS strikes, two very different women – Hollywood icon Elizabeth Taylor and research scientist Dr. Mathilde Krim – join forces to create America’s first AIDS research foundation. The fight against HIV/AIDS has never been the same. Seraph
USA (Director: Dash Shaw, Screenwriters: John Cameron Mitchell, Dash Shaw)
A boy’s childhood scars his life. Fall to Grace
USA (Director: Alexandra Pelosi)
Former New Jersey governor Jim McGreevey famously resigned from office after declaring himself “a gay American.” Since then, he has continued to use his connections to help rehabilitate women and to make peace with his journey from married governor to gay suburban priest.
Thank You
USA (Directors: Pendleton Ward, Tom Herpich, Screenwriters: Pendleton Ward, Tom Herpich)
A pack of fire wolves attack a snow golem in the forest and accidentally leave a cub behind after their retreat. The golem’s life is thrown into chaos as he attempts to reunite the cub with its family.
Iyeza
South Africa (Director and screenwriter: Kudzanai Chiurai)
An allegory of the Last Supper depicting the establishment of a new nation-state, Kudzanai Chiurai’s Iyeza explores the African condition by juxtaposing the past and the present of a continent in the grip of violent civil wars.
Until the Quiet Comes USA (Director and screenwriter: Kahlil Joseph)
Shot in the Nickerson Gardens housing projects in Watts, Los Angeles, this film deals with themes of violence, camaraderie and spirituality through the lens of magical realism. Q The full schedule, along with screening times and locations, can be found at sundance.org
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The Roper
USA (Director: Ewan McNicol)
A black man with hip-hop and zydeco roots hard grafts through the local, all-white rodeo circuits in the Deep South, as he dreams of competing in the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas.
Tram
France, Czech Republic (Director and screenwriter: Michaela Pavlátová)
The humdrum daily routine of a tram conductress is jolted when the vibrations and rhythm of the road turn her on and take her on an erotic and surrealistic fantasy journey.
Save 40%, 50% or more at qmart.gaysaltlake.com
46 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | A&E
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theater
‘Adam & Steve’ A journey in philosophical modulations by Tony Hobday tony@qsaltlake.com
Following
positive response to a reading of Adam & Steve and the Empty Sea at the Youth Summit in Ogden earlier in 2012, this original play by Matthew Greene premieres Jan. 31 at the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center. “People seemed to really respond to the story and the characters,” said Logan Tarantino, who plays the gay character Steve. “Knowing that gay people approve of it has been really important to me.” Produced by Plan-B Theatre Company, the two-man show stars Tarantino and Topher Rasmussen, and is directed by Jason Bowcutt. Set in California, on the back of Proposition 8, the story describes a
Matthew Greene
friendship since childhood that’s on the verge of breaking as each man struggles with his identity and place in the world. Independently, they are very different people, but together their bond is depolarized. “It’s a coming of age story with two protagonists, two best friends who learn more about each other and about how the world works as they grow apart in some ways and closer together in other ways,” said Rasmussen. Plan-B’s Producing Director Jerry Rapier added, “Our country seems more polarized than it has at any other point in my lifetime. So I instantly connected with Matthew Greene’s play because the characters understand something I’ve just recently figured out: the real victories lie in the middle ground, in compromise, in what comes from not just listening but actually hearing what’s being said to you from a point of view you may not agree with.” Introduced in nonconsecutive order spanning a decade, you will get to watch two boys grow into adulthood. While Steve is popular in school, a good student and a jock, Adam on the other hand is a devout Mormon and a bit
of an “outcast.” But Steve holds on to a secret for fear of losing his place in the high school hierarchy. “My character is the perfect ‘straight’ student. He’s a track star, and all of his friends like him because of whom they think he is,” said Tarantino. When Steve decides to come out to his best friend Adam, hard questions about faith, beliefs, teachings and friendship come to the forefront. “Adam struggles with determining where truths can be found. He has this firm belief in the [LDS] Church because it was instilled in him,” said Rasmussen. “As a kid, talking to Steve at a very young age, it really shows how his development works and why, as an adult, he is so stubborn and hypocritical. He has a lot of guilt which I think is common in most very religious people, and he will willingly sin, what he believes are sins, but he will
find a way to justify it so it’s not really sinful. Then later he will show remorse or guilt over it.” There’s a disconnection between them that they are trying to fix, added Tarantino. Adam & Steve is not stereotypical or melodramatic. Tarantino says he feels like it’s a refreshing take on a gay high school kid. And by nearly imperceptible modulation, the Empty Sea is a “cool” metaphor. While this is Tarantino’s first professional performance, he has previously worked with Rasmussen and Bowcutt in the stage reading of Dustin Lance Black’s 8 earlier in 2012. “I started doing theater as a junior in high school. I used to play basketball,” said Tarantino. “But sports became too political.” When he first started doing theater, Tarantino said he felt like he had no self-confidence, but his teacher saw something
january, 2013 | issue 214 | gaysaltlake.com
in him as an actor. He eventually became a sterling scholar of the theater department. He is currently in the actor training program at the University of Utah. Rasmussen, who gave a stunningly poignant performance as a gay Mormon in Plan-B’s Borderlands last season, attributes his building career to Rapier. “He’s been such a huge part of helping me get to where I am as an artist. He’s been an ally of mine for years. He’s one of the smartest and … like sap-
piest, but most caring persons. He has allowed many to have these opportunities and to be a part of something relevant and current, and I feel like it’s important to express these ideas about the world. It’s been important in my growth as a member of society. He’s made me feel safe and comfortable as an actor, and he’s always had this faith in my abilities that sometimes I felt I didn’t.” Q Adam & Steve runs Jan. 31 through Feb. 10, in the Studio Theatre, Rose Wagner Center, 138 W. Broadway. Tickets $20, 801-355-ARTS or arttix.org.
A&E | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | 47
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interview Barbra Streisand
48 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | A&E
The ‘Funny Girl’ Returns by Chris Azzopardi
Barbra
Streisand takes center stage, but she’s not busting out “The Way We Were.” Not today, anyway. The legend is promoting her first major film in 16 years at the Four Seasons Los Angeles. Her hair is perfectly coiffed and – dressed in her usual all-black attire – she’s got the off-the-shoulder look going on. Hello, gorgeous, indeed. Not long into the interview, a makeup artist waiting in the wings pats any remnants of forehead sweat. You don’t let a legend perspire – and Barbra Streisand is the epitome of an American treasure: a consummate singer with a timeless mezzosoprano; an Emmy, Oscar and Grammy award winner; and the woman who stole hearts in A Star is Born. To us, a gay icon. After a short stint of recent sold-out shows, Streisand returns to starring-role status in The Guilt Trip alongside goofball Seth Rogen – for real: Babs with the Zack and Miri Make a Porno actor – as a mother-son duo that goes road-tripping together and gets into all sorts of shenanigans. If it weren’t for director Anne Fletcher (The Proposal), who would only do the film with Babs, there’d be no movie – and, worse, no Barbra. Streisand, along with Rogen and Fletcher, sat down to chat about the reason she finally gave in (thank her own gay son for that), what she thinks of being a gay icon and how she’s managed to stay successful for nearly six decades. What was it like meeting each other for the first time? Barbra Streisand: Seth sussed me out. He
called people. Seth Rogen: And she checked out. This
Barbra Streisand lady checked out. So I thought I’d give her a shot. (Laughs) BS: I didn’t know who to call. I don’t know
any of those people from his movies, so what was I gonna do? No – I thought he was adorable. What are you two like off set? SR: The way we talk in real life is not
entirely different than our rapport in the movie. It’s a lot of me trying to explain PHOTO: Universal Studios
things to her about modern times and her trying to feed me shit I don’t want to eat. BS: I was the one with the iPhone. SR: She had an iPhone before me. I was like, “I gotta get myself one of these. If Barbra can work an iPhone, it’s gotta be fun.” BS: Yesterday he asked me if I had a Twitter account. I said, “I don’t know.” SR: I showed her that she did! I change her
clocks during daylight savings and all that stuff. You must know a lot of gay people are going to see this movie – BS: We hope so.
Because Seth is such a huge gay icon. SR: (Sarcastically) I’m a gay icon? Do gay
people like Barbra, too? I didn’t know that. Barbra, how do you feel about the label of “gay icon” – and do you think your own son, Jason Gould, thinks of you as one? BS: He doesn’t see me as an icon. He sees
me as his mother who touches his hair too much. No – I love being an icon to anybody. Equal rights, you know! SR: Yeah. Me too. (Laughs)
What did your gay friends think when you told them you were working with Barbra? Anne Fletcher: Everyone in my life is gay,
but I have one best friend who has been obsessed with her since he was a child. His entire childhood was saved because of Barbra – with her music and her movies. His mom had just died four or five years ago, so for him to meet her on the movie – and her and I having such a relationship – was just full circle. Barbra, how much contact did you and Jason have when you were considering the role? BS: He actually was very important in
my decision to make the movie. He was recovering from back surgery, so he was in bed for a few days after, and I brought the script over and we read it out loud. It was interesting, actually. His father was in the room, too. Isn’t that funny? We were both coddling our son, so he became the audience and Jason was reading the parts with
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
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me and he said, “I think you should do it, Mom.” I really trust his integrity and his opinion. He has great taste in whatever he chooses to do. And he clinched the deal. AF: I was with you all over the world, but
I love that Jason just one night says, “Yes, Mom, do it.” (I said that) for a whole year! BS: Well, he’s my son. (Laughs)
What about reading it with your son sealed the deal? BS: Mothers develop guilt trips. I feel guilty as a parent that I couldn’t pick up my son every day from school and bake him cookies. I know that feeling. I know that feeling a lot. Having a famous parent is an odd thing. I thought it was interesting to investigate trying to be my son’s friend versus a mother. It was a true story. It’s (writer) Dan (Fogelman) and his mother. She was a fan of mine, and Dan wrote this lovely script. It just felt like it was meant to be. Meant for me to come back to work in a starring role. It was time to challenge myself again. Of course, I made it very difficult for them to hire me, because I kept wanting an out: “I really don’t wanna schlep to Paramount. It’s two hours each way, so would you, like, rent a warehouse and build the sets in the Valley no more than 45 minutes from my house?” They said yes. AF: I wasn’t gonna do this movie without
these two. There wasn’t backup. If Seth said no, there was no replacement; if Barbra said no, there was no replacement. It was them, or I wasn’t gonna make the movie. BS: I said to Anne, “Would you make the movie without me?” And she said no. And I felt bad! Another guilt trip, right?
can’t remember one iota of. My best friend’s a little pissed about that. (Laughs) I imagine directing a legend like Barbra Streisand would be intimidating. Was it? Did she call the shots? AF: It’s not intimidating. She comes to work
as an actor, as an artist, and she’s been doing it for so long that all the pieces fall back into place exactly how they were. We’re all there for the common good, so she would come to work as any other actor. She’s a legend, so that’s a little different. But it was never intimidating, because she’s just so genuine. She had my back, and the support I had from her was extraordinary. So no diva moments? AF: Never. I know we’ve all heard the
stories about her endlessly throughout all these years, but I can’t say whether they’re true or false. I just know from my experience I had an unbelievable experience with her, and I would do it again. She works harder than anyone. And her brain never shuts off. That’s the only thing I would complain about! Like, “Please stop thinking for just five minutes – because I’m tired.” (Laughs) Even if people think of her as a diva, this role really takes you out of that mindset. You never think of Barbra Streisand, “the diva.” AF: That’s the best compliment. I’m glad
you say that. This was part of our conversation: “If we’re gonna win the audience, you have to be every mother. You have to capture the essence of moms now. You can’t be glamorous-beautiful. You have to be every mom for us to tell the story the right way.”
bottomless pit. We had many discussions about that steak scene. From Barbra’s side it was, “Does it have to be that? It seems a little gross.” Anne, did Barbra ever break into song? AF: Never. Barbra will not sing. I sang an
awful lot to her. But she will not sing. There’s a thing that she did in the movie that we cut out where she’d go, “Hmm, hmm, hmm.” She would do rhythmic things that she does with her voice that only Barbra can do – and I would take that as singing. But she would never do it. Never. She’s so rude. (Laughs) Give us a free concert, Barbra. She’s like, “Pay for it!” You can sing, act, produce, write and direct. What can’t you do well? BS: I can’t cook at all. I mean, I would not
know how to make coffee. I took cooking classes. I know how to make chocolate soufflé. Just ask me if I want to make it. I’d rather have somebody else make the chocolate soufflé – and I eat it. When I tried to cook, put it this way: It was never appetizing to eat. And the hands! So filthy with the stuff. And then cleaning up – no, I don’t like that part. Barbra, you must see a lot of scripts, right? BS: I don’t. You see, everybody thinks like
you. Meanwhile, I go, “Where are the scripts?” (Laughs) It’s not the same as when I last made a film. They’re not interested in love stories. It’s a different time. I don’t like it as much. What’s the secret to your success? BS: Oh my god. I don’t make that many
Barbra, what’s your beauty secret?
movies and I don’t make that many appearances so I ...
BS: God, what is my secret?
SR: ... leave them wanting more.
(Laughs) No, it’s not true. I only would’ve done it if Barbra was doing it.
SR: Sitting next to me helps. BS: (Laughs) He is so funny. If you knew
BS: Less is more. Maybe that keeps a little mystery or something.
BS: It was great to feel wanted.
all my self-doubt, my god – I don’t know. Maybe I’m slightly childish.
What do you want audiences to take away from the film?
AF: Your spirit is youthful.
BS: I want them to be moved and I want them to see themselves in the movie. I want them to get closer to their children. A lot of things. It’s a transformative kind of movie. They start at one point and are both kind of tragically alone, not finding a mate, and then at the end there are many more possibilities. Horizons open. He took me out of my shell. It’s about love. I always say it’s a different kind of love story.
SR: I was open to Shirley MacLaine.
Who is another gay icon you want to work with, Anne? AF: I don’t really like the “gay icons,” by
BS: Yeah. I kind of like the child part of me.
the way. I don’t really respond to them very well. I think Barbra is so grounded in many different things, but there’s some of them – I’m really insulting gay sensibility. (Laughs) But Liza Minnelli. I do love Liza.
What was harder for you, Barbra: the drama or the comedy elements of the film? BS: Eating steak! That was the hardest
What was Barbra like? What surprised you most about her?
thing, I think. But no, they’re both the same. I don’t think there’s a distinction between how you play drama or comedy, if it’s based in truth.
AF: We became friends instantly. She’s easy-
AF: This woman may not like steak, but
going, funny, kind, strong and knows who she is. She’s unbelievably awesome. She’d tell me some of the greatest, most personable stories that happened in her life that I
she’s a foodie. You’ve never met a foodie in your whole life until you’ve been with Barbra Streisand. This woman loves food more than anything – and she will eat it! She’s a
SR: Which to me sounds gross. BS: See where your mind goes? Always to
the sexual. SR: Right in the gutter.
Q
50 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | FOOD&DRINK
The Garage does delectable pub food by Joshua Jones & Matt Andrus
The Garage
is a
gem — your favorite neighborhood bar nowhere near your neighborhood. A comfortable spot in an industrial wasteland (located at 1199 Beck St.); it’s a playground, family room, restaurant and bar. Sour took his 80-year-old Mormon parents who fit in just as well as the hipsters and bikers. Ambiance aside, the other treat is the reasonable prices. Nothing is more than $10, and every dollar saved on food is another dollar that can go on your bar tab!
Sweet: From Borax soap to the game Cornhole, it’s a place for everyone. I’d even say Woody and Sam Malone have nothing on this place.
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Sour: Sorry, I drifted off. Did you say something about woodies and cornholes? Sweet: I was referring to the backyard game, Cornhole, and also making a Cheers reference. Sour: Cheers? Are you 80? The service is amazing, highlighted by Angelique, her honest smile and attention to detail is exceeded only by her willingness to put up with our drunken banter, some of which may have been peniscentric. A lot of the ambiance at The Garage is provided by the effervescent personalities of co-owners Marsha and Bob who banter with patrons like we’re all old friends. SWEET: And it would be a disservice to our readers not mention the silver fox that Bob is; he’s a kind gentleman, with
Next to Club Try-Angles, Half Block from TRAX in the NEW Gayborhood!
Home of the Happy Hangover Sunday Brunch 11am–2pm Q PON
Free Soda or Coffee with food purchase
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
the chiseled body of a rugby player and the carved face of a Santa Barbara surfer. So, how’s the food? It fits the place perfectly. That is to say it’s not gastro-pub pretentious, but neither is it the greasy gut bomb that you’d order at 1 a.m. to soak up that belly full of appletinis. It’s comfortable and honest, like the bar itself. SOUR: Gays invented appeltinis, and we stopped drinking those 10 years ago. The Garage serves brunch on weekends from 11-3 a.m. One of our favorites was the breakfast sandwich — a pillowy delight of honey ham, melted cheese with an over easy egg on a potato roll. It melted in my mouth like breakfast cotton candy. Also on the brunch menu are the excellent huevos rancheros, highlighted by the chili verde black beans. Another excellent breakfast option is the Bloody Mary Chop Steak, essentially a hamburger steak on rustic bread topped with the food equivalent of a bloody mary — full of horseradish and tomato. On the lunch and dinner menu, much has been made of the fried chicken, served either by itself or on a waffle. We found the chicken breading
to be well-spiced and full of promise, but unfortunately, the preparation was inconsistent, often leaving the crust overdone and the chicken dry. Sour: Another item I don’t think lives up to the reputation is the Fried Mormon Funeral Potatoes. I’ve had friends and family that think these fried balls of potatoes and cheese are a terrific hipster take on the traditional ward house casserole. My impression was that a little garlic, a little celery or even blue cheese would have gone a long way.
Sweet: I think that’s the point! There’s something to be said for taking fatty, classic comfort food, and saying, ”Here’s the Mormon treat you hate to love, and we’re going to batter and deep fry that bastard! I enjoyed the sinful flavor.” The food at The Garage is great. For instance, the burger is one of the best in the valley. The potato bun, fresh ground meat, and jalapeño dijon make for an amazing burger. Other recommended burger varieties include the Black and Blue, the Spicy Firehouse and the Tangy Cowboy. But of special note is the veggie burger — a blend of rice, black beans, Live Organic Vegetarian squash and mushrooms. It’s moist, meaty and flavorful. Gluten Free Food In essence, The Garage is an amazing bar with a food menu that fits it’s character perfectly. Fun, delicious, but not pretentious, and easy like Try Our Bean Burrito! Sunday morning.
2148 Highland Drive
801-486-0332
www.omarsrawtopia.com
Sour: Are you 80? Q
FOOD&DRINK | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | 51
january, 2013 | issue 214 | gaysaltlake.com
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52 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | DRINK
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
drink
Without Ice
Manhattan buying superfluous items like batteries and bottled water, I concentrated my emergency preparations on procuring enough booze to see us through the storm and its aftermath. That’s just a joke. Although Dan makes fun of by Ed Sikov the Spam I keep on did you drink hand, the truth is that during the I’ve kept our apartGreat Blackout, Daddy?” It’s ment stocked with just too bad I don’t have kids! batteries, water, If I did, they’d ask this crucial canned goods, and question around the age of 6, candles and the when their dawning awareequally manness of history’s imperative datory liquor met their equally fresh-awakever since ened interest in their father’s 9/11. Only on love of a dwinkie. Maybe it’s Day 2 of Sandy just as well I’m childless. In did I realize that our ice supany event, Hurricane Sandy ply had melted. is beginning to fade into the Quelle horreur! mists of the past, but your Also: Duh! intrepid columnist is still What doesn’t musing on Sandy’s effect on require ice? Well, his cocktail hour. Hours. Days. Scotch and whiskey Each Sudoku puzzle has a unique solution which can be reached logically without guessing. Enter digits 1 through 9 into the for starters. We had Each Sudoku puzzle has a unique solution which can be reached logicalblank guessing. spaces. Every must contain9 one digit, as must ly without Enterrow digits 1 through into of theeach blank spaces. Every more than enough on row must contain one of each digit, as must each column and each 3x3 each column and each 3x3 square. Qdoku is actually five Level: Easy square. Qdoku is actually five separate, but connected, Sudoku puzzles. hand to keep us toasted separate, but connected, Sudoku puzzles. Level: Easy and toasty after the sun went down. The 1 9 2 3 9 7 1 apartment was a little 7 5 3 9 2 1 3 chilly without our 2 8 1 9 6 4 usual central heating, 6 7 8 9 2 2 6 9 4 3 but after we each had a hefty dram of The 3 1 6 8 1 5 6 Glenlivet, we warmed 5 7 4 8 up just fine. 8 7 6 5 9 4 9 2 4 6 4 Some Scotch connoisseurs insist that the 1 5 4 9 3 4 6 best way to enjoy the 5 7 6 9 1 5 2 7 classic whiskey is not, 8 3 9 in fact, neat – at room 7 1 8 3 temperature without the addition of a mixer 5 2 6 – but with a single ice 8 2 5 6 9 7 2 9 cube. This delivery 8 5 1 2 6 3 4 method is said to open 4 1 8 7 3 5 7 2 3 6 4 the Scotch’s bouquet. I think they may 1 9 4 6 be right, but there’s 3 9 1 8 5 9 1 something to be said 1 3 8 5 7 7 4 5 1 9 for the pleasant kick to the nose and tongue 2 3 1 2 5 6 offered by plain, 5 9 6 2 4 3 1 unadulterated Scotch.
Part 1
“What
Q doku
Whatever. As you may recall, Dan and I spent the night the hurricane slammed ashore without electricity drinking Kirs Royale while fondly remembering the superb casting of the old sitcom The Mothers-in-Law, with two inimitable gay demi-icons – Kaye Ballard and Eve Arden – playing the title roles. We could enjoy the Kirs Royale only because the lights went out after we’d opened the champagne; our first round was thus properly chilled. By the time we’d polished off the bubbly, we no longer cared that it was nearing room temperature. The ensuing four nights and days without power would have been hell on earth were it not for the fact that certain types of liquor can, and sometimes should, be consumed at 70 to 75 degrees. While others were scurrying around
Q doku
7
2
4
1
1
4
8
It grabs your full attention in a way that a one-ice-cubed drink does not. It’s like smelling salts, only pleasant. For this reason, I like to serve Scotch neat in a big-bowled wine glass or brandy snifter. Try it. Pour a healthy jigger of your favorite Scotch into such a glass. Hold it between your third and fourth fingers with your palm cupping the bowl so the heat of your hand warms the contents slightly. Then shove your nose into the glass and inhale. Ahhhhh! That’ll wake you up! Snob that I am, I prefer single malt Scotch to blends; I like the raw, individualistic character single malts present to the mouth. The Glenlivet, Aberlour, Talisker, Oban, Longmore, Strathisla, Redbreast…. They’re all quite delicious and run the range from peaty to smoky. These single malts tend to be pricier than blends. The exception is Chivas Regal, the best blend insofar as easy drinkability is concerned. (Then again there’s the rare Royal Salute, a scrumptious blend that’s been aged for 25 years; I’ve seen it offered on the Internet for as much as $179.99. It’s not surprising to learn that Royal Salute is made by the bonnie folks who produce Chivas.) So next time you find yourself in the path of a hurricane, make sure you’ve stocked some Scotch. Ye can tell your wee bairn that – och! – ye was prepared for the blackout, an’ it dinna faze ye at all. Q
january, 2013 | issue 214 | gaysaltlake.com
nightlife
DJ Boy Toy shares inspiration DJ Boy Toy can be
found at Club Try-Angles, keeping the neighborhood bar’s dance floor pumping every weekend. We caught up with him to hear about how he got started spinning and who inspires him (in, and out of, the bedroom).
How did you get started? I have always been fascinated with music. When I moved to Salt Lake back in 1993 a co-worker was a disc jockey. I would watch him and I wanted to learn. I took every opportunity I could to watch what he did and I started doing my own thing. At first I would deejay for youth events at the pride center or parties. After I was old enough to enter the clubs I would watch the DJs there. But because of other circumstances I stopped and I didn’t deejay for a long time. When Club Try-Angles opened I decided to start again. This hobby has taught me so much and it has grown so much over the years. Some nights I’ll have somebody that has an interest and I’ll let them use some headphones to listen, perhaps give it a try. That is how I learned. Who are your musical inspirations? There are so many but if we are speaking of artists, I would say Cher. I grew up listening to her music and even today I still love her. DJs I admire would be Almighty, Cahill, Manhattan Clique, Calvin Harris, WaWa, Ralphi Rosario, Bimbo Jones, Dave Aude, Liam Keegan, Thunderpuss, Jump Smokers, Tiesto, Nevins, Jody Den Broeder and many more. How would you describe your style? I would describe it as happy. I like music that has energy. My style is pop, mainstream club, mashup and
NIGHTLIFE | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | 53
Qgiggles
progressive. I’ve only recently began trying some electro. I like the oldies as well as new artists. I watch the music charts from Europe because they introduce new artists and songs long before they make it to the U.S. charts. I love coming across a song or mix that sends a surge of adrenaline through me. What do you find sexy in a man? Skinny nerds, personality and humor. Smart is sexy and there is always something to talk about. I don’t consider myself to be a complicated person. I’m simple and I like to be around people that are the same. Humor is a must. You can have the worst day ever and to have somebody say something funny just turns everything around. If you could have sex with any celebrity, who would it be and why? I’m a TV/movie freak so that is a tough one, but the first name that comes to my mind is Joseph Gordon-Levitt. I think he is a great actor and very smart. He is also very yummy to look at!
SET LIST Better Than Her, Matisse Cry (Just A Little), Bingo Players Diamonds, Rihanna Pocketful Of Sunshine, Natasha Bedingfield Don’t Stop The Party, Pitbull Anything Could Happen, Ellie Goulding Doctor Love, First Choice Don’t Wake Me Up, Chris Brown Collide, Leona Lewis Boys Will Be Boys, Paulina Rubio Die Young, KeSha Dance Again, Jennifer Lopez Happiness, Alexis Jordan Whistle, Flo-Rida Turn Up The Radio, Madonna Woman’s World, Cher One Thing, One Direction Die for You, Doxi Jones
What’s going on this weekend? nightlife.gaysaltlake.com
54 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | COMICS
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
anagram An anagram is a word or phrase that can be made using the letters from another word or phrase. Rearrange the letters below to answer:
Singer-songwriter
ABERRANT AS BIRDS ______ _________
cryptogram A cryptogram is a puzzle where one letter in the puzzle is substi-
Jane’s World
tuted with another. For example: ECOLVGNCYXW YCR EQYIIRZNBZN YZU PSZ! Has the solution: CRYPTOGRAMS ARE CHALLENGING AND FUN! In the above example Es are all replaced by Cs. The puzzle is solved by recognizing letter patterns in words and successively substituting letters until the solution is reached. This week’s hint: A = L
Theme: Quote from Garth Gullickson on what the new LDS Church website MormonsAndGays.org means to him.
Q hxqaa bqaa ywhqhx hxwooqcj qcxt vc AFH puvowa vcn xqew httc. _ _____ ____ ______ ________ ____ __ ___ ______ ___ ____ ____. _________________.
january, 2013 | issue 214 | gaysaltlake.com
COMICS | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | 55
56 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | FUN
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
Brazen Britches
40 Has debts
3 Anderson of TV
41 Ticks off
4 Just treatment, to B.D.
Across
42 Pound poem part
1 Barrie’s getting on in years 5 Cop’s target 9 Isn’t quite straight 14 Chinese dynasty 15 Jump for Doug Mattis 16 Bear 17 Hump on the beach 18 Rowlands of film 19 The Lion King protagonist 20 Character of 22-/48-Across 22 With 48-Across, “brazen britches,” or film comedy of 2012 23 Least of the litter 24 Halloween cry 26 Straddling 29 Stops to unzip and go 34 Pain in the neck 35 Get soft 36 Ron Howard role 37 Actor who plays 20-Across
Wong on SVU 43 Seamen running down 5 Socrates and Caesar the deck 6 Bring to bear 45 Jude Law in Sherlock 7 Tear apart Holmes
9 Gay rodeo accessories
47 Woody Guthrie’s son
10 Film director Kazan
48 See 22-Across
11 Cathedral of Hope
52 Writer/director of 22-/48-Across 57 Spacey’s The ___ Suspects
collection 12 Important Brits 13 Go to and fro 21 Sled dog
58 Trials and tribulations
25 Palindromic fellow
59 Milk go-with
26 Sound of a sudden,
60 Free, in France
involuntary discharge
61 Very much
27 Go on all fours
62 What Israelis may
28 Het up
shoot off 63 Stays hard
29 Practices voyeurism
30 Warhol subject 64 “Over my dead body!” 31 Responds like weland such coming thighs 65 Sweater?
32 Bicolor mount
38 Leave at the alter
48 Word on a door
54 Soup pasta
39 Like snakeskin
49 Bangkok continent
55 Name in a will
44 Controversial paths
50 Worn-down pencils
for same-sex partners
Down
33 ___ Hall University
1 Bi
35 Michael C. Hall on Six 45 Snatches
2 “Not on a bet!”
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51 Pastry with fruit, perhaps 53 Earthenware pot
56 What Sam twitched on Bewitched ANSWERS ON PAGE PAGE 61
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58 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | ADVICE
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
ask mr. manners
Classy is as classy does by Rock Magen askmrmaners@qsaltlake.com
As we
enter into January, a common occurrence is sitting down to plan resolutions. New gym memberships and workout plans are purchased, vows are made, and we all hope that the new us will be what we need to be successful in the New Year. Being in this season of change, I would like to start the New Year with answering questions from readers and helping you all to find a little class and etiquette along the way to personal betterment.
Dear Mr. Manners, I need some advice. My mother is coming to visit and I want to throw a dinner party for her. I want to break out all the fancy china and show her the best Salt Lake has to offer. She’s a classy gal and I want a party to match. The problem is most of my friends aren’t quite as refined as she and the normal parties at my house are burgers and hot dogs. How do I ask my friends to behave and dress up without offending anyone? —Dinner Party in Salt Lake
Dear Dinner Party, Let me begin by saying the host sets the event expectations. A host invites according to the nature of the evening. Every great party I have ever been to began with an invitation. Not a text message or a Facebook invite, but a real (printed on card stock) invitation. All of the party details and evening expectations were there and clear to understand and decipher. Everyone knew what
they were getting themselves into. Perhaps this is the best method for you to approach your party. When dealing with my mother, I have found that classy tends to be accompanied by “sassy” and maybe your lady would enjoy a chance to see an invitation in her honor. You
q scopes ARIES March 20–April 19 Winter has given you the urge to clean house when it comes to work. But don’t let your temper get the best of you this month. Remain calm and think about what’s best for your future before making any rash decisions. TAURUS April 20–May 20 Don’t go against your nature this month. A loved one helps you realize what you want when it comes to your personal life. So, go out and get it. Don’t let others stand in your way. GEMINI May 21–June 20 Your ability to think fast on your feet will come in handy during a social outing this month. Don’t let a surprise throw you off guard. Work will keep you busy during the beginning of the month, so you must focus on the task at hand. Your efforts won’t go unnoticed. CANCER June 21–July 22 A family situation will put you to the test this month. Don’t let your emotions get the best of you. Stay strong and use your sense of humor to keep loved
can never go wrong with an invitation. When faced with having to bring your friends up to par, honesty is always the best policy. I have found great success with offering events as social experiments. Print up your invitations, set the expectations up front and offer the event as a chance to dress up and enjoy an evening unlike those you are accustomed to. If you make it something to look forward to, they will rise to the occasion so that they don’t feel left out at the dinner table. There is nothing like that feeling of being the one who is under-dressed or under- mannered.
A final thought on entertaining is that a gentleman understands the delicate interplay between friends and acquaintances. Make sure that as you are making the guest list, you analyze the temperaments of those in attendance and keep all involved in check. Politeness is a gentleman’s constant, and in addition to the rules of engagement, make sure that you play close attention to the rules of the table. You may be in your own home, but if the etiquette associated with the fork and knife feels constricting, drop the attitude, not the manners. For we all know, even if it is deep down, that, manners maketh the man. Q
ones calm. You’ll be riding high when it comes to romance.
SAGITTARIUS November 22–December 20 Your happy, gregarious nature will be challenged this month as loved ones share a family secret. The news may come as a surprise but don’t let your temper flare. Take it in stride. Your optimism pays off when it comes to romance.
LEO July 23–August 22 Your pride may get you into trouble with a co-worker this month. Don’t make the situation worse by trying to take control. In your personal life, romantic efforts finally will pay off. A special someone will show you they care. VIRGO August 23–Sep. 22 Fight your fear of crowds this month as a meeting at work puts you in the spotlight. Your organization and perfectionism will gain a lot of praise. Don’t be too hard on yourself after a fight with a loved one. LIBRA September 23–October 22 Your ability to be a good listener will be needed this month as a close friend goes through a rough time. Your pleasant nature will help get them back on track. Don’t let a quarrel with your special someone get you down. Your good nature will bring him or her around. SCORPIO October 23–November 21 Your determination puts you in line for top honors in the workplace. Don’t be shy when it comes to romance this month. Even though it’s against your nature, let your feelings be known.
CAPRICORN December 21–January 19 Now is your chance to get ahead at work. Your boss offers you the opportunity to take a commanding role in the company and you’re up to the challenge. Don’t let your stubborn side take control when it comes to friends. AQUARIUS January 20–February 18 Your sense of realism does well for you in all areas of your life this month. You won’t overreact to a surprise at work, making you a pillar of strength for your co-workers. As for your love life, it’s time to take the next step in a relationship. Think about it. PISCES Feb 19–Mar 19 Don’t let feelings of self-doubt keep you from reaching a new level of success. Believe in yourself and you can accomplish anything. A realistic look at finances will help you plan for the future. Pay attention to details.
january, 2013 | issue 214 | gaysaltlake.com
Jeffree Star — Internet diva, model, fashion designer, makeup artist, singer and self-described “androgynous bitch” stopped by Salt Lake City on Nov. 23. After starting his music career on MySpace, he’s gathered more than 100 million plays on his self-released records. Photos: Erik Olson
SCENE | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | 59
60 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | SEX
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
the dating diet
My boxer has a secret by Anthony Paull
Please
take custody of my furry, four-legged child. I’m an awful parent. For years, I’ve been trying to convince the world my dog is gay, and I must be stopped. It’s neither safe nor fair to force any animal of the wild kingdom - whether it be a dog, a man, or a combination of both - out of the closet until it’s good and ready. Still, I find great difficulty in attempting to abandon my ill-received beliefs. “I’m worried about Champ. I think he’s depressed. He never shakes his tail anymore. Do you think he needs a boyfriend?” I asked my dad at dinner last week. “Jesus Christ!” my dad yelled, pushing away his plate. “That’s all you ever talk about. Gay this! Gay that! You’re gonna put the wrong idea in that poor dog’s head. He’s fine. He’s happy.” Dad, an avid believer that being gay is nothing more than a bad choice, has this silly preconceived notion that someone
can turn gay solely by being accused of it. That’s why Champ is never allowed in the room when his sexual preference is questioned. He might hear us, and the curse might spread! “Admit it, Dad. Champ’s wrists have always been a tad limp,” I said. “He has arthritis.” “Well, what about the time he tried to mount me?” “That’s it. I’m done talking,” dad said, excusing himself from the table. Fine, I admit it. The topic at hand was completely ridiculous, but the endless debate over my boxer, Champ, in regard to his feminine side is a dish served hot when compared to discussing the rest of my family’s problems. In short, Champ allows a chance for dad and me to air-out our differing viewpoints regarding the topic of homosexuality in a neutral, non-personal climate. To be honest, I take the blame for starting the whole rumor about Champ being gay. And yes, I was the wicked one who secretly began calling him “Cocoa” upon his arrival. Silly me, I thought it would make him more comfortable in his clearly queer skin to have a more feminine stage name. “He’s a total bottom,” I would boast to my friends. Well, that’s until the day “Cocoa” tried to top me when I was doing push-ups in the garage. It was harmless, really. Sure, he lacked balls and couldn’t find the hole, but I had dealt with boys like that before. Still, I was confused.
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“Does that make him a top?” I asked my dad. “Stop that nonsense! He’s a dog for God’s sake. He’s indiscriminate. He’d stick it in a light socket if he thought he could live through it.” “Yeah, that’s what straight America would like you to believe,” I replied. You see, I’d been doing Internet research, and Google.com made it easy for me to find out the truth about cats, dogs and the other beautiful, gay critters in this beautiful, gay world. In little time, I’d learned that Norway is the only country brave enough to tackle the controversial subject of citing homosexuality throughout the animal kingdom. In 2004, the Norwegian government felt the country’s museums and libraries should question taboo subjects, and it happened at the Natural Museum at Oslo. Revealing the world’s first exhibit (Against Nature?) on gay animals, the museum had such startling visuals as a photograph of penis-fencing whales and an 1896 sketch of two barebacking, male scarab beetles. Discussing the exhibit in a 2007 Times online article, scientific advisor Petter Bockman states “the facts have been staring scientists in the face for years.” Researchers ignore the behavior because “they fear ridicule or loss of their grants if they draw attention to it.” On the Internet, many people commenting on homosexuality in dogs pass off the public display of affection as an act of dominance. Some suggest male dogs tend to “befriend” other male dogs when access to a female is denied. But would they say the same about gay men if we hadn’t the chance to vocally refuse the idea? As for dad, he believes Champ just hasn’t met the right girl. When playing in the neighborhood, I see how much he prefers male company though. Sure, he’ll interact with females, but he never allows them too close; he’d much rather dress one than mount one, I believe. Still, I don’t say anything to Champ about these candid observations. After all, I wouldn’t want to put the wrong idea in his head. Q
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62 | Q SALT LAKE MAGAZINE | final word
gaysaltlake.com | issue 214 | january, 2013
the perils of petunia pap smear
The tale of poo-poo pee doo by Petunia Pap Smear
The road
cacophony and panic induced by the earsplitting anal announcement. I swear if the voluminous vapors had been ignited, and excitement. it would have been enough to propel a On Thanksgiving night, after my already shuttle into space. Fortunately, on that circumferential tummy was near bursting score, I was the only openly flaming object from massive quantities of turkey, dressing around, so consequently no explosion. and yams, I was ecstatic to escape the conI was greatly relieved to have the gaseous fines of the Zion Curtain and go on a little pressure released. Conversely, I began to road trip to the City of Angels. have the uneasy sensation that the posterior I was merrily tooling along I-15 in profanisaurus had been accompanied by Queertanic, my luxurious land yacht, some upside-down hot fudge sundae. I tried singing along to the radio and trying to not to move a muscle, in hopes that any think up some queenly choreography to panty contamination would not spread and “Call Me Maybe” when Mother Nature grind through the fabric, thereby soiling made her presence known. I suddenly the upholstery. In full panic mode, I looked felt an irrepressible need to release some for the next exit. I was horrified to find the gaseous intestinal byproducts. Now, in next exit was Beaver. Oh the shame of it all, my advancing years of troll-itude, I have to have to parade my pudgy panties in the come to believe it’s my personal destiny to land of “snatch,” of which gay men dare not rebuild the ozone layer one poof at a time. speak its name. I have acquired a new motto that I believe With great haste, I drove Queertanic all queens with elevated social aspirations to the nearest convenience store. With should adopt: “Never trust a fart!” buttocks clenching tight enough to create Accordingly, it was with utmost care that diamonds, I tried to act casual as I slowly I gently raised my bodacious bottom from and carefully climbed out of the car and the leather seat so there would be ample awkwardly waddled like a demented duck room to float an air biscuit and not damage passed the incredibly handsome cashier the upholstery. I was shocked at the volume into the restroom. Once safely in a stall, I and ferocity of the trouser tornado that pulled my pants down and proceeded to erupted from my tenacious tushie. scrutinize any possible fecal infestation. Queertanic violently swerved to the I was wracked with panic and revulsion side of the highway, crossing the rumble as I inspected the inside of my underwear strip, and thereby adding to the caboose where I noticed there was a substantial amount of agent brown clinging to the fabric. Suspecting an accompanying smearing of smarm on my bottom, I carefully began wiping with tissue and came to understand that the contamination of liquid bummer This month’s trunk was much more extensive than I is brought to you by had heretofore hoped. With wad P.O.V. We don’t know after wad of tissue, I attacked who he is, but we the bum gravy with ever increaswill make it our lilfe’s ing ferocity. So much so that my mission to find out. finger pierced through the tissue, thus becoming contaminated too. This had now officially become a literal, “Oh shit” moment. I waited until no one else was in to Los Angeles is fraught with danger
trunk of the month
the restroom, then I carefully took off my shoes, pants and soiled underwear. Hoping that no one would enter the room, I nervously opened the stall door, and while half naked, I quickly streaked to the sink to get some wet paper towels. Oh, for hell’s sake! There were no paper towels, only one of those blasted air dryers. “For your sanitation and convenience,” my ass! I retreated back to the stall, wondering what to do? Someone else came into the room. I quickly sat down on the toilet and raised my stocking feet up off the floor so that he would only be able to see my shoes. After what seemed like an eternity and the cramping up of my airborne legs, he left. Relieved to be alone again, I finally got one of those paper toilet seat liners and re-emerged from the stall, and wet that down in the sink. Success! I thought about just throwing the drippy doo-doo contaminated underwear into the garbage and leaving them, but they were one of my newest and nicest, costing about $20. And I am nothing if not a frugal queen, so I determined that I would smuggle them out to the car. I couldn’t let that cute cashier see me carrying the underwear so I carefully wadded them up and stuffed them into my pants pocket. The resulting bulge made it look like I was “very happy” to see the stud, and wouldn’t you know, he gave me a flirty wink as I passed by him. Normally a queen of my advanced years and tonnage would never let a flirty wink go to waste. However, like a guilty thief in the night, I skulked to the car and deposited my filthy undies. To avoid further scrutiny from the cute cashier, I drove to a different store before retrieving a clean pair of undies from my baggage and went into that bathroom to put them on before continuing my journey. Like always these events leave us with several eternal questions: 1 Should I apply at NASA as a launch specialist? 2 Are colonic calliopes the source of spontaneous human combustion? 3 Could trouser music be harvested as an alternative energy source? 4 Should I carry spare underwear in my purse? 5 Will the dictionary begin to reference this story for the meaning of an “Oh, shit moment”? These and other important questions to be answered in future chapters of: The Perils of Petunia Pap-Smear. Q
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