QSaltLake March 2014

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UTAH’S GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL, TRANSGENDER AND ALLY

March 2014 Issue 229 GaySaltLake.com FREE

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gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

are married to each other.”

It seems the Utah lawyers are stuck in the 1800s, but time marches on around them.

Utah same-sex marriage brief is a cut-and-paste from the ultra-conservative agenda

by Michael Aaron

Late night

on Feb. 3, the state of Utah filed opening arguments in its appeal of District Judge Robert Shelby’s ruling that the state’s laws prohibiting same-sex marriage are unconstitutional. The court had given the state an extra week to make the filing and the team took all but the last half hour of that time.

The 120-page, 17,000-word brief was entered by Gov. Gary Herbert and Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes. Salt Lake County Clerk Sherrie Swenson did not file a brief in the appeal. With citations, the typographical error-ridden brief is nearly 45,000 words.

But it is largely a cut-and-paste of old arguments used in failed anti-marriage equality briefs in cases across the country and in websites of ultra-conservative groups, out-of-context quotes, debunked studies and outright fabrications.

Citing many ultra-conservative organizations and authors, the brief argues that states have traditional authority over marriage, that “man-woman” marriage is the historic definition, that states which recognize same-sex marriage are doing so as “recent experimentation,” that the 1971 Supreme Court’s refusal to hear the Baker v. Nelson case is the controlling case and not the 2013 U.S. v. Windsor case and that no fundamental due-process right to marry someone of the same sex currently exists in the country.

The state’s argument, in brief The argument begins that, while Utah “respects and values those citizens [in same-sex relationships] and their children as both equal before the law and fully entitled to order their private lives in the manner they have chosen,” the state “has a duty to consider their [all Utah’s children] interests in deciding whether to abandon the manwoman definition of marriage.”

Utah claims that “sound social science” affirms “that the diversity of having both a mom and a dad is the ideal parenting environment.”

“That model is not intended to demean other family structures, any more than giv-

ing an ‘A’ to some students demeans others,” the state argues in what may be the brief’s most demeaning argument.

The legal team said that, should same-sex marriage become legal, marriage would shift from a child-centric institution to an adultcentric one, resulting in more self-interest, increased fatherlessness and motherlessness and reduced birthrates.

It also says that other states which have validated same-sex marriage claimed they had “historic and essential authority” to define marriage free from “federal intrusion.”

“States like Utah that decide to place greater weight on the benefits to children of retaining the gendered definition of marriage are entitled to the same deference and respect.

Anything less would effectively federalize domestic relations law,” the brief states.

“Because the district court did not give proper deference to the choice of Utah’s citizens, the State requests that this Court reverse,” the brief continued.

Historic definition of marriage The first cited quote, used by many ultra-conservative groups, comes from “Zero Population” sociologist Kingsley Davis, who wrote that, “The genius of the family system is that, through it, the society normally holds the biological parents responsible for each other and for their offspring.”

But Davis once called himself a “social scientist provocateur” and raised eyebrows by writing such controversial things as male sexual jealousy was “a foundation stone of social organization,” and that prostitution was a benefit to society — quotes the conservative groups and the state of Utah somehow did not use.

The state then cites dictionaries of 1869 and 1871 defining marriage as between a man and a woman. In Noah Webster’s Etymological Dictionary, marriage was defined as: “a union of a man and woman for life by marriage, a particular matrimonial union.”

Merriam-Webster (yes, the same Webster) now defines marriage as: “the relationship that exists between a husband and a wife; a similar relationship between people of the same sex; a ceremony in which two people

Impotence On to a quote from an 1852 book by lawyer Joel Prentiss Bishop.

“Marriage between two persons of one sex could have no validity, as none of the ends of matrimony could be accomplished thereby. It has always, therefore, been deemed requisite to the entire validity of every marriage … that the parties should be of different sex.”

Interestingly, the quote is edited, having been taken from a section of his book on impotence. The part after the ellipses actually fully reads: “... not only that the parties should be of different sex, but they should be essentially complete in their sexual organization and capabilities.”

The author went on to write, “Every contract of marriage, therefore, implies a capability in the parties of consummation.

When a person, knowing of his defect, induces another who is ignorant of it, to marry him, he commits a gross fraud and grievous injury.” He then writes that the marriage should be nullified on the grounds of fraud or, if the man was unaware of his impotence, on the grounds of “implied warranty.”

This raises a question posed by Judge Shelby during oral arguments before him.

Would it be constitutional to refuse marriage to menopausal women or others who cannot procreate? State attorney Phillip Lott said that it would not. The state, in using this quote, seemingly treads perilously close to raising this argument once again.

Utah Statehood The state argues that there was a federal mandate to “limit marriage to the union of one man and one woman” in order to become a state. In reality, the Utah Constitution reads: “First: Perfect toleration of religious sentiment is guaranteed. No inhabitant of this State shall ever be molested in person or property on account of his or her mode of religious worship; but polygamous or plural marriages are forever prohibited.”

No “one-man one-woman” anywhere to be found.

Genderless vs. Traditional Marriage The state then goes into great length about the crystal clear difference between “genderless” marriage and “traditional” marriage. “ A society can have but one understanding of marriage: It is either a uniquely man-woman institution, or it is not. Because —Continued on page 8

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Utah same-sex marriage brief Continued from page 6

man-woman unions are unique in their ability to produce children, maintaining the man-woman definition reinforces the childcentric view of marriage. And by reinforcing that understanding, the State gently encourages parents to routinely sacrifice their own interests to the legitimate needs and interests of their children. Given its enormous benefits to children generally, the State has an important and compelling interest in encouraging selfless parenting,” the legal team wrote.

The brief outlines four of what it calls compelling reasons that it should be able to retain its gendered definition of marriage.

First, genderless unions redefine marriage to be adult-centric, to the detriment of Utah’s children.

The brief quotes National Organization for Marriage founder and former chair Robert George, who said, “Thus the perennial challenge for societies throughout history has been to establish a means of formally linking mothers and fathers with their offspring so as to maximize the welfare of children, and hence of the community.”

George, however, is no social scientist. He is an ultra-conservative Princeton professor.

He was a drafter of The Manhattan Declaration: A Call of Christian Conscience, which calls for civil disobedience if Christians feel they are being silenced or restricted from their religious liberties. According to a lawsuit, the declaration was used by the Beachy Amish-Mennonite Christian Brotherhood to help a Baptist woman kidnap her daughter from her former lesbian partner and move the daughter to Nicaragua.

The brief then goes on to quote four ancient books as well as a book by the antigay National Marriage Project director Brad Wilcox about how marriage is a social institution, by saying, “Indeed, this gendered and child-centered understanding of marriage has long been so ubiquitous, and considered so compelling by eminent authorities, that to cite and quote even a small percentage of those authorities could easily consume an entire book.”

Co-counsel Monte Neil Stewart, who helped write Amendment 3 and runs the anti-gay Marriage Law Foundation, is quoted for his 2008 book, Marriage Facts, as saying that social benefits generated by original meanings of words “dissipate or disappear” if a word’s meaning is changed.

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

Stewart, in his December 2012 brief in a Nevada same-sex marriage case, compared marriage equality advocates to white supremacists, in that white supremacists altered the definition of marriage to disallow mixed-race unions. Same-sex marriage advocates, he says, are similar in that they want to redefine marriage.

Perfectionism In their quote of Joseph Raz, the state once again fabricated its meaning. While the state says Raz was talking about “the law,” the quote is actually a discussion of “Perfectionist political action.”

“Perfectionist political action may be taken in support of social institutions which enjoy unanimous support in the community in order to give them formal recognition, bring legal and administrative arrangements into line with them, facilitate their use by members of the community who wish to do so, and encourage the transmission of belief in their value to future generations. In many countries this is the significance of the legal recognition of monogamous marriage and prohibition of polygamy.” (Italics are what was removed from the state’s brief — interestingly, polygamy was removed.)

Why the state would quote from a book that also goes on to encourage intercourse before marriage, the legalization of pornography and the celebration of nudism baffles me.

But Raz doesn’t truly believe in the tyranny of the masses. He goes on to say in the next paragraph that, “the view we are discussing assumes a rigoristic moral outlook, that is one allowing for only one morally approved style of life. That is why it is suspected that if some people pursue a different style of life from that practiced by those with political power, they will be persecuted. Perfectionism is, however, compatible with moral pluralism, which allows that there are many morally valuable forms of life which are incompatible with each other ... If a plurality of incompatible, even rival, forms of life is valuable, then perfectionism would not lead to the suppression of forms of life which are not practiced by those in power.”

The absurd The state then quotes a quip from Bertrand Russell, where he said, “But for children, there would be no need of any institution

concerned with sex.”

But Russell also wrote in the same book, “Love as a relation between men and women was ruined by the desire to make sure of the legitimacy of children,” and, “Homosexuality between men, though not between women, is illegal in England, and it would be very difficult to present any argument for change of the law in this respect which would not itself be illegal on the ground of obscenity. And yet every person who has taken the trouble to study the subject knows that this law is the effect of a barbarous and ignorant superstition, in favor of which no rational argument of any sort or kind can be advanced.”

Why the state would quote from a book that also goes on to encourage intercourse before marriage, the legalization of pornography and the celebration of nudism baffles me.

Stop Misusing My Work Further discussing the importance of motherfather parenting, the state quotes Kristin Anderson Moore in a 2002 Child Trends Research Brief, saying, “research clearly demonstrates that family structure matters for children, and the family structure that helps children the most is a family headed by two biological parents in a low-conflict marriage.”

But the authors of the brief have repeatedly said that marriage equality opponents are misquoting and misusing their work.

“The Child Trends brief in question summarizes research conducted in 2002, when same-sex parents were not identified in large national surveys,” president of Child Trends Carol Emig said. “Therefore, no conclusions can be drawn from this research about the well-being of children raised by same-sex parents.”

She added, “We have pointed this out repeatedly, yet to our dismay we continue to see our 2002 research mischaracterized by some opponents of same-sex marriage.”

The brief also quotes the ultra-conservative Witherspoon Institute and sociologist David Popenoe, whose work only examined the consequences of divorce, single parents, and stepfamilies — situations in which a heterosexual father was no longer involved in his children’s life — not same-sex parenting; and child development author Michael Lamb, who wrote 40 years ago about the need for a man and a woman in childrearing, but has since testified for same-sex marriage in California’s Proposition 8 case.

Lamb testified that children do not require a male and a female parent to have a stable and healthy life growing up. Lamb stressed that childhood adjustment relied

FIRST WORD | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | 9

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more on the relationships between the parents and the relationships the child has with their parents.

They also cited A. Dean Byrd, former president of the National Association for Research & Therapy of Homosexuality and a frequent speaker and author of conversion therapy to rid people of being gay or lesbian, and Benjamin Scafidi, of the anti-gay Institute for American Values.

Junk Science In stating, “Studies also show that, even when they have two caregivers of the same sex, children who grow up without a father or a mother are socialized in a way that undermines their ability to function effectively in a dual-gender society,” they are actually talking about one study, which the publisher of the journal it was published in has since decided it shouldn’t have made print, and which no less than the American Psychological Association has declared as flawed. It has further been found that the timing of the article was rushed to get it published before the U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments on Prop 8 and DOMA. The study by Mark D. Regnerus, How Different Are the Adult Children of Parents Who Have Same-Sex Relationships? was paid for by the anti-gay Witherspoon Institute.

It purported to compare the responses of children raised by stable opposite-sex parents and those of children raised by stable samesex parents. The truth is, however, the study lumped together the children all family types that include a gay parent — regardless of the family’s structure, history, marital status, etc.

— and attempts to compare them to children raised in a “still-intact biological family.”

Regnerus, himself, cautioned against using the study to determine that the fact a child was raised by a gay parent was the cause of any differences in outcome.

“Organizations may utilize these findings to press a political program ... that is not what data come prepared to do,” Regnerus wrote. “Implying causation here — to parental sexual orientation or anything else, for that matter — is a bridge too far.”

Yet the marriage equality opponents use this study at every turn.

Human Rights Campaign created a web site further explaining Regnerus’ work and its motivations at regnerusfallout.org.

An accompanying article in the same journal by Loren D. Marks was also cited in the state’s brief. It claims to have analyzed 59 studies used by the American Psychological Association in a brief on lesbian and gay parenting. A member of the journal’s review board, asked to review both Regnerus’ study

(which he called “bullshit”) and Marks’ study wrote that the Marks paper was “a lowbrow meta-analysis of studies” that was “inappropriate for a journal that publishes original quantitative research.” He also said that Marks didn’t perform a true meta-analysis of the studies and instead simply wrote summaries of the results.

Decline in European Marriage Utah’s brief goes on to say that same-sex marriage would cause a “substantial decline in the public’s interest in marriage” and

The reason the state chose to use such data is nefarious at best. cites a 2002 survey showing low support for marriage in European countries that currently allow same-sex marriage. What it does not show, however, is how that support has changed over time from before same-sex marriage until now.

In fact, the data from the study was taken in 2000, nine years before Sweden allowed same-sex marriage, three years before Belgium and one year before the Netherlands, all of which Utah’s lawyers cited.

The reason the state chose to use such data is nefarious at best.

Fertility Rates The state calls it “striking that fertility rates and birthrates tend to be markedly lower in nations and states that have embraced same-sex marriage.” Their argument alludes to same-sex marriage as the cause of lower fertility rates, without any proof cited.

Yet, demographers have long known that fertility rates of more conservative states, like Utah, are much higher than liberal states, like Massachusetts.

Conservatives have larger families, marry earlier and have children earlier — all of which affect the average birthrate.

Since more liberal states are voting to allow same-sex marriage, of course those states will have lower birth rates.

Again, nefarious.

Religion The state dedicates 11 pages to religious support of traditional marriage, erroneously saying that only five of the top 25 churches in Utah support same-sex marriages.

More importantly, state lawyers throw a fear argument into the mix, saying that the state would be pressured and perhaps agree, to force religious organizations (like LDS Family Services?) to stop all adoption and

foster services if they won’t provide such services to gays, to revoke the tax-exempt status of anti-gay churches, to prosecute churches for refusing to perform same-sex weddings and to punish school teachers who won’t “endorse” same-sex marriage, to punish counselors for not counseling samesex couples, and to force schools like BYU to house, hire and provide classes for gay and lesbian people.

And it is in the state’s interest to make sure none of that happens.

“The State’s interests in protecting religious freedom and minimizing religion-related civic conflicts are thus highly relevant to the constitutional inquiry.”

Public Strife The state lastly argues that it has a “public welfare” interest in keeping “husband-wife marriage” because it is “deeply interwoven into the fabric of Utah life” and “preserving the traditional definition of marriage is essential to preserving social harmony in the State.”

“Redefining marriage would be a recipe for social and religious strife,” the legal team wrote.

In other words, blood will spill if gays can marry and the state can say, “I told you so.”

But the question this might raise is that, perhaps the government and religious organizations have created such an atmosphere that “the maintenance of domestic peace” may be a problem if the court rules to uphold Shelby’s ruling and same-sex marriages continue. This is, as I’ve said before, “perilously close” to admitting that the state and its largest religions have shown animus in how they treat its lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender citizens.

“The risk of deep social division is at its apex when courts preempt democratic discourse and force major social changes on an unwilling populace,” the state’s brief continues.

However, to put your fears at ease, it should be noted that recent polls have shown that the majority, while it might be slim, of Utahns support outright same-sex marriage. A vast majority support some kind of legal recognition. And a vast majority of Utahns also support nondiscrimination laws such as the one proposed since 2008 by Equality Utah.

Also important, is that all 18 cases decided since Windsor that involve the issue of equality for LGBT people have come down on the site of equality and fairness.

All of them.

Settle down, everyone. It’s going to be fine. Q

10 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | NEWS

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

Utah legislature shelves non-discrimination bill again

by Bob Henline

In the wake of Judge Shelby’s 2013 ruling on Utah’s Amendment 3, the reactionary forces of the Utah legislature came out in force. Several marriage and “religious liberty” bills were introduced, as were bills about gender identity and bathroom use. There was even mention of a statewide repeal of previously passed municipal non-discrimination ordinances.

As more and more bills were filed, Utah’s newly-appointed Attorney General Sean Reyes and his “special outside counsel” Gene Schaerr visited the legislature’s Republican caucus in a closed door meeting. According to reports, legislators were advised to shelve any bills related to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender issues in order to avoid the appearance of animus, which is one of the planks of the case against Amendment 3’s constitutionality.

As a result of these warnings, House and Senate Republican leadership struck a deal that imposed a moratorium on all LGBT-related bills for this session. That moratorium includes SB100, Sen. Steve Urquhart’s (R-St. George) bill that would prohibit discrimination in housing and employment on the basis of gender identity and sexual orientation. This is now the sixth year that this bill has been filed at the legislature and never made it for discussion to either chamber.

Senate President Wayne Neiderhauser (R-Sandy) told this reporter that he supported the moratorium because he believes that it is important for the Utah Legislature to let the situation cool down. He indicated the emotions were high in the wake of the Kitchen v.

Herbert ruling, and that decisions should not be made by the legislature when emotions

are high.

In a press conference earlier this month, Urquhart suggested that this is exactly the right time to pass protections for all Utahns. Responding to the AG’s warning about animus, he suggested that “the Senate discuss the bill civilly and with respect. We should just discuss it without animus,” he said.

The chairman of the Senate Rules Committee, which now has jurisdiction of the bill, Sen. John Valentine (R-Orem) reiterated Neiderhauser’s position.

When asked by this reporter

what non-discrimination protections had to do with marriage equality, he admitted that the two are not related. He explained that the leadership was going to shelve a number of bills against marriage equality and other LGBT issues and that the SB100 would be shelved, essentially, as a compromise to make that happen.

Equality Utah has been working to pass a statewide non-discrimination statute since 2009. Equality Utah’s executive director, Brandie Balken, expressed her disappointment with the Utah Legislature while reiterating her commitment to this legislation and her appreciation for this

Protesters demanding SB100 be heard are arrested at Utah Capitol Thirteen protesters who were at the Utah State Capitol Building demanding passage of Senate Bill 100 were arrested as they blocked access to a legislative committee hearing Feb. 10. The bill would enact a statewide nondiscrimination law protecting lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Utahns from discrimination in the workplace and in housing.

The group first lined up outside the governor’s office and were met by bill sponsor Sen. Steve Urquhart and Sen. Jim Dabakis, Utah’s only openly gay state legislator.

The group later moved to block access to a committee hearing that Utah Senate President Wayne Niederhauser was to attend. Legislative legal counsel told the protesters that blocking access to an legislative meeting could be charged as a felony. The protesters refused to move as others trying to access the committee hearing began yelling at them.

Utah Highway Patrol officers then brought out zip ties and arrested the protesters.

Among those arrested was KRCL producer Troy Williams, who yelled “liberty and justice

community and its allies.

“Equality Utah is disappointed that our state legislature missed this obvious opportunity to create a win for our state.

LGBT equality has won in the court of public opinion — and we are consistently winning in the courts,” she said. “The question is no longer if we will achieve equality in Utah, but when. We know that this bill will be heard, and will be passed — and it will be because the LGBT community and our allies persevered — showing up year after year and never giving up. Even now, we continue to organize — and will use 2014 to further build our momentum and our majority.” Q

for all,” as he was removed from the area.

Also arrested were Michelle and Gail Turpin, Donna Weinholtz, Gail Murdock, Jake Hanson, Orlando Luna, Dustin Trent, Matt Conway, Kevin Garner, Steven Germann, Angela Isaacs and Matthew Landis.

Salt Lake City attorney Christopher Wharton has offered to represent any of the jailed protesters at no charge.

The protesters were charged with disruption of a public meeting — a class B misdemeanor with a maximum possible penalty of six months in jail and a $1,000 fine — and disorderly conduct — a class C misdemeanor. Q

“I stand for equality under the law, for treating others how I want to be treated, for the fundamental human right to live a happy life free of tyranny.”

– Chris Kluwe PHOTO BY: JOE BIELAWA

So do we, Chris.

Featuring keynote speaker CHRIS KLUWE, professional football player, as well as special guests DENISE STAPLEY, winner of Survivor: Philippines, and MARK WHITE, bassist for the Spin Doctors, the American Atheists National Convention celebrates the diversity of the atheist community. Come out and be a part of the largest annual gathering of atheists in the United States, April 17-20, 2014 at the Hilton Salt Lake City Center.

Activist Training Workshops | 50+ Speakers | VIP Dinner | Art Show | Vendors Comedy Show | Costume Party | Live Music | Karaoke | Book Signings A portion of all proceeds from the Art Show will be donated to the Ogden OUTreach Resource Center, a resource for LGBT youth in need.

Learn more at www.atheists.org/convention2014

12 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | NEWS

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

Utah Sen. Mike Lee and Ted Cruz file DOMA replacement bill Utah Republican Sen. Mike Lee joined Sen. Ted Cruz, RTexas to introduce S. 2024, the State Marriage Defense Act, which prohibits Congress or any federal court from defining the terms “marriage” or “spouse” to anything different than a state may have defined them.

The bill defines its purpose as: “Prohibits, in determining the meaning of any Act of Congress, or of any ruling, regulation, or interpretation of U.S. administrative bureaus and agencies, as applied with respect to individuals domiciled in a state or in any other territory or possession of the United States: (1) the term “marriage” from including any relationship that the state, territory, or possession does not recognize as a marriage; and (2) the term “spouse” from including an individual who is a party to a relationship that is not recognized as a marriage by that state, territory, or pos-

sessionThe bill will ensure the federal government gives the same deference to the 33 states that define marriage as the union between one man and one woman as it does to the 17 states that have chosen to recognize same-sex unions.”

“How a state should define marriage should be left up to the citizens of each state,” said Lee. “It is clear the Obama administration finds the principles of federalism inconvenient in its effort to force states to redefine the institution of marriage. The State Marriage Defense Act provides an important protection for states, respecting the right to choose for themselves how each will treat the institution of marriage under the law.”

“I support traditional marriage. Under President Obama, the federal government has tried to re-define marriage, and to undermine the constitutional authority of each state to define marriage consistent

with the values of its citizens,” said Cruz. “The Obama Administration should not be trying to force gay marriage on all 50 states. We should respect the states, and the definition of marriage should be left to democratically elected legislatures, not dictated from Washington. This bill will safeguard the ability of states to preserve traditional marriage for its residents.”

Fred Sainz, vice president of communications and marketing at the Human Rights Campaign said in a statement, ”This is just another attempt to undermine the valid marriages of loving same-sex couples. We will work with our allies on the Hill, on both sides of the aisle, to make sure this bill does not pass.”

In United States v. Windsor, the Supreme Court held Section 3 of the Defense of

Park City High School youth raise $1000 for Restore our Humanity Braving freezing temperatures, members of the Park City High School Gay-Straight Alliance sold water and coffee for ten days to the Sundance Film Festival attendees. Their goal: raise money to support the activities of their alliance and make a donation to Restore Our Humanity, the organization behind the same-sex marriage case in Utah.

Marriage Act to be unconstitutional. Eighteen federal and state cases that have gone through courts across the nation since the ruling have all been decided in favor of samesex marriage.

“Unfortunately, since the Windsor decision, the Obama Administration’s agenda to force same-sex marriage has led both to the violation of these principles and to the rise of inconsistencies among several federal agencies that either look to the law of the state where an individual lives to determine eligibility for marital benefits or recognize marriages based solely on the law of the state where a marriage ceremony was held,” Cruz wrote in a statement.

The bill has little chance of becoming law, making it a message bill to bolster Lee’s and Cruz’ reelection funds. Q The students used clever rhymes and sales pitches to ply their goods to festival goers. After 10 days of work, the alliance was able to make a donation of $1,000. On the check’s memo line they noted that the donation was for “our future.”

Three members of Restore Our Humanity, director Mark Lawrence, communications director Matt Spencer, and plaintiff Derek Kitchen visited the GSA and commended the students for their grass roots efforts.

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march, 2014 | issue 229 | gaysaltlake.com

NEWS | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | 13

QSaltLake presents Restore Our Humanity with $25,000 check Thanks to everyone who attended and sponsored the Love Elevated Mass Wedding Reception, as well as those who have bought QSaltLake’s special glossy edition, we were able to present Restore Our Humanity with a $25,000 check.

Restore Our Humanity is the group paying the legal fees for the battle against Utah’s Amendment 3.

The reception was presented

by Le Croissant Catering, X96 and QSaltLake.

Mary Olsen, who won the grand prize at the event, raffled off the overnight stay in Park City, raising $950.

The check was presented at a Utah Stonewall Democrats bingo night that raised over $5,300 for ROH. Yes, that is our publisher, Michael Aaron as Matron of Mayhem Madame Marmalade hosting bingo. Q

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14 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | NEWS

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

Utah Pride Festival announces theme, opens booth and parade registrations Organizing for the 2014 Utah Pride Festival is in full swing.

Choosing the theme of “Love Equals Love,” the even will take place once again at Washington Square and Library Square.

Schedule The event will be kicked off on Thursday June 5 with an interfaith service at Wasatch Presbyterian Church.

On Friday, June 6, the Grand Marshal Reception will be held in the VIP section on the festival grounds. Nominations are currently being taken for the Dr. Kristen Ries Community Service Award and the Pete Suazo Political Action Award.

Deadline for those nominations is March 7.

The festival continues on Saturday, June 7 with the Pride 5K run and Dyke and Trans* marches. The festival gates open at 3 p.m. beginning with special “family hours” from 3 to 6 p.m. with young age-appropriate entertainment of the stages. The festival gates will close at 11 p.m. Saturday.

On Sunday, June 8, the an-

nual Utah Pride Parade will kick off at 10 a.m. along the same route as last year and festival gates open once again at 11 a.m., closing at 7 p.m.

Participate Corporate and individual sponsors are being sought to pay for the event and applications are available through March 28 on the UtahPrideFestival. org web site or by emailing sponsor@utahpridecenter.org.

Those wanting a booth at the festival can also apply through the web site.

Early bird registration, saving up to $100, ends on March 30. Standard registration goes through April 15 and late registration is available through May 1.

Organizations that would like to apply for a scholarship or inclusion in the Grass Roots Zone must apply by April 15.

This year, local/small businesses are being invited to participate in the festival and may apply for a discounted rate. These businesses must be

Q mmunity Utah AIDS Foundation Red Carpet Gala The red carpet will be rolled out once again for the Utah AIDS Foundation’s 25th annual Red Carpet Gala. The night is always full of glitz and glamor as the Academy Awards show is broadcast on large screen TVs and a veritable who’s who of Utah mill about the audience.

Dress code is black tie optional with festive attire encouraged. Funky Hollywood glitz, movie-themed or movie-inspired costumes, Hollywood glamour, movie star hip casual are generally found, but many people simply dress comfortable and have fun. Proceeds to benefit the Utah AIDS Foundation.

locally owned, have less than 15 employees, cannot be a franchise of any national chain and cannot be a food vendor.

Membership in the Utah Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce may help a business’ application.

Local artists may participate in the Art Zone. Entries are juried and share a 40-squarefoot canopy. Deadline to apply is April 20.

More information about vendor booths can be found by

emailing jimmy@utahpridecenter.org

Entertainers Individuals and groups are being sought for the several stages in the festival. Those interested in being considered should apply online by March 15.

Parade Those interested in being part of the parade may also apply

online with early bird rates going through March 30, standard through April 15 and late registration through May 1. Q More information is available at utahpridefestival.org

WHEN: Sunday, March 2, 2014, 5pm WHERE: Rail Event Center, 235 N 500 West TICKETS: 801-487-2323 or utahaids.org Restore our Humanity will be updating the community on the status of Kitchen v Herbert case at a town hall meeting.

When: Wednesday, March 5, 6:30pm Where: Salt Lake City Main Library Auditorium Cost: Free. Donations welcome.

Info: RestoreOurHumanity.org or the event’s Facebook page.

Restore Our Humanity holding a town hall meeting on Kitchen v. Herbert case

NOH8 Photo Shoot back in Salt Lake

A moderated question and answer session will community questions on the land mark case Restore Our Humanity brought against Utah’s ban on marriage equality, known as Amendment 3.

For those not able to attend, or if the 300 person capacity space is exceeded, the event will be streamed live on RestoreOurHumanity.org as well. A web link will be provided the day of the event.

The NOH8 campaign is back to take the now-famous shots of people with the NOH8 tattoo on their face. Shots can be taken solo for $40 or as groups for $25 each. People are asked to come “camera ready” and to wear white. No RSVP is necessary, as the photos are done on a first-come first-served basis.

When: Saturday March 15 1–4 p.m.

Where: St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Cost: $40 singles or $25 each group Info: tinyurl.com/noh8slc

NEWS | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | 15

march, 2014 | issue 229 | gaysaltlake.com

Kansas bill passes House allowing discrimination against LGBT people A bill similar to one proposed in Utah passed the Kansas House of Representatives, 72 to 49, and would have allowed individuals to refuse to provide business services to same-sex couples because of religious beliefs. It met a quick and surprising end, however, when conservative senators sided with liberal advocates in saying that the measure promoted discrimination.

The bill had appeared that it would easily sail through the Senate, as both chambers are controlled by conservative Republicans who in recent years have passed some of the most conservative legislation in the country.

Conservative Republican Susan Wagle, Kansas Senate President, raised opposition to the House measure, saying she had “grown concerned about the practical impact of the bill” and “my members don’t condone discrimination.”

Wagle was backed by Sen. Jeff King, R-Independence, the chairman of the Judiciary Committee, who said he would not hold hearings on the House bill. Instead, King said, his committee would hold hearings on the broader topic of religious freedom in Kansas and explore whether the legislature needed to take any further steps to shore up those protections.

Last year, the legislature passed the Kansas Preserva-

tion of Religious Freedom Act, which protects residents from government burdens that may force them to break their religious beliefs. That bill stemmed in part from concerns that employers could be forced to provide contraception under the federal health care law.

The bill proposed in this year’s session went further in explicitly allowing any individual to raise a religious objection in refusing to recognize or provide services to same-sex couples.

“To me, the bill was not as narrowly tailored as it needed to be,” King said. “We need razor precision in the language of the bill as to what religious liberties we’re trying to protect and how we protect them in a nondiscriminatory fashion.”

The turn against the bill came as a welcome surprise to civil liberties advocates in Kansas and across the country.

“The public outcry by midweek had reached such a volume that the Senate just wasn’t going to be able to take it up,” said Thomas Witt, the executive director of Equality Kansas, a nonprofit group that fights discrimination and strongly opposed the bill. “I don’t know what surprised me more, the level of public involvement in this or the speed with which the Senate president basically ended the prospects for the bill.” Q

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16 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | VIEWS

views

“

When I play somebody gay, I never think of it as ‘I’m playing a gay character.’ It’s interesting to play all the different aspects of the character.

There’s something else about the character that’s pulling me there that I identify with.

With Flawless, it’s not that he was gay—I found it more interesting that he thought he was a woman. With Capote, it’s the story that he had as an artist. And in Boogie Nights, he was so completely stunted I don’t even think he knew his attractions were of a gay nature.”

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

quotes from february

—Late actor Philip

“

Seymour Hoffman

“Me, gay? I have much respect for them, but I like women. I have four kids and I don’t even watch television. This is the first time I’ve heard this story. Still, I repeat, I have much respect for homosexuals, but I like women.”

—Manchester United footballer Anderson Luís de Abreu Oliveira

“

Rather than emulate the girls I grew up with who made fun of me, I decided I wanted to look like a movie star.

It was like an escape. I did so much research, reading books and watching movies about Jean Harlow, Marilyn Monroe, and all of those Hollywood blondes with the boobs, the hips, and

the heels. Everything was so exaggerated.

Marilyn even had plastic surgery in the ‘40s — a nose job and had her hairline done, and it was a total transformation.

Not so different than a transsexual, really. She made herself into what she wanted to be.”

–Trans icon Amanda LePore

QSaltLake Magazine welcomes your letters to the editor.

Please send your letter of 300 words or less to letters@qsaltlake.com.

We reserve the right to edit for length or libel if a letter is chosen for publication.

march, 2014 | issue 229 | gaysaltlake.com

the straight line

It’s the little things

by Bob Henline

Late last

month our favorite comical tragedy opened it’s annual six-week run on Utah’s Capitol Hill. Normally, I’d be writing an annual rant about the idiocy spewing from our elected employees and lamenting the lack of anything resembling balance in our government, but a dear friend advised me to try being lighthearted this time. In his honor I’m going to highlight a few of the little things that give me hope for the future that our legislature is working so hard to delay.

Of the things I’ve seen happen so far in 2014, the one thing that really stands out happened at the one event I work hardest to avoid: the Sundance Film Festival. I’m not going to bash Sundance, but it’s just not my thing, and I certainly don’t want to go to Park City and fight my way through ginormous crowds for something that’s not my thing. So I avoid it.

This year, however, something different happened. The GayStraight Alliance of Park City High School decided to brave the freezing weather and sell coffee, hot chocolate, water, etc. ... to the festival-goers to raise funds for their activities. As it turns out, they did pretty well with this fundraiser. Well enough, in fact, that they donated $1,000 to Restore Our Humanity, the group behind the lawsuit against Utah’s unconstitutional ban on same-sex marriage. In the memo line of the big cardboard check they wrote “For: Our Future.”

While we’re on the topic of fundraisers, watching this community come out in droves to support Restore Our Humanity and Utah’s crop of newlyweds at the Love Elevated reception was also particularly moving. In 11

days QSalt Lake, LeCroissant Catering, X96, The Rail Events Center, and a host of other sponsors and volunteers pulled off a grand reception for the newlyweds. In the process, $25,000 was raised to help pay the legal bills in the Kitchen v. Herbert case.

Then came the opening of the legislative session. As expected, the reactionary message bills and hate noise started piling up. Then House and Senate (Republican) leadership announced that they wouldn’t allow floor debates on any marriage-related bills They included Sen. Steve Urquhart’s (R-St. George) nondiscrimination bill, SB100, in that moratorium.

Urquhart, in response, launched his own campaign, Operation Blue Note, that resulted in hundreds of notes being taped to doors of the Senate chambers demanding that SB100 be heard and debated. A little bit more hope.

Following that, a small group of activists blockaded the doors to the governor’s office holding signs demanding Utah end discrimination and pass SB100. After hours of blocking the doors, the protestors were arrested and taken to Salt Lake County Jail on charges of disruption of a public meeting (Class B misdemeanor) and disorderly conduct (Class C misdemeanor).

Some may argue, but to me, civil disobedience is the very essence of the exercise of free speech and association. A little more hope shines through.

We’re not even three months into 2014, and in response to setbacks we’ve seen a new resolve.

We’ve seen renewed commitments to change, and we’ve seen the next generation take a bold step into the world they’ll inherit.

They may be little things, but they lead to bigger things: hope and change. Q

VIEWS | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | 17

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18 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | VIEWS

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

guest editorial

Kansas anti-gay segregation bill is an abomination

By Mark Joseph Stern

Earlier

this month, the Kansas House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved a measure designed to bring anti-gay segregation — under the guise of “religious liberty” — to the already deep-red state. The bill, written out of fear that the state may soon face an Oklahoma-style gay marriage ruling, will now easily pass the Republican Senate and be signed into law by the Republican governor. The result will mark Kansas as the first state, though certainly not the last, to legalize segregation of gay and straight people in virtually every arena of life.

If that sounds overblown, consider the bill itself. When passed, the new law will allow any individual, group, or private business to refuse to serve gay couples if “it would be contrary to their sincerely held religious beliefs.” Private employers can continue to fire gay employees on account of their sexuality. Stores may deny gay couples goods and services because they are gay. Hotels can eject gay couples or deny them entry in the first place. Businesses that provide public accommodations — movie theaters, restaurants — can turn away gay couples at the door. And if a gay couple sues for discrimination, they won’t just lose, they’ll be forced to pay their opponent’s attorney’s fees. As I’ve noted before, anti-gay businesses might as well put out signs alerting that their business isn’t welcoming of gay people.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. In addition to barring all anti-discrimination lawsuits against private employers, the new law permits government employees to deny service to gays in the name of “religious liberty.” This is nothing new, but the sweep of Kansas’ statute is alarming. Any government employee is given explicit permission to discriminate against gay couples — not just county clerks and DMV employees, but literally anyone who works for the state of Kansas. If a gay couple calls the police, an officer may refuse to help them if interacting with a gay couple violates his religious principles.

State hospitals can turn away gay couples at the door and deny them treatment with impunity. Gay couples can be banned from public parks, public pools, anything that operates under the aegis of the Kansas state government.

It gets worse. The law’s advocates claim that it applies only to gay couples, but there’s no clear limiting principle in the text of the bill that would keep it from applying to gay individuals as well. A catchall clause allows businesses and bureaucrats to discriminate against gay people so long as this discrimination is somehow “related to, or related to the celebration of, any marriage, domestic partnership, civil union or similar arrangement.” (Emphases mine.) This subtle loophole is really just a blank check to discriminate: As long as an individual believes that his service

The result will mark Kansas as the first state, though certainly not the last, to legalize segregation of gay and straight people in virtually every arena of life.

is somehow linked to a gay union of any form, he can legally refuse his services.

And since anyone who denies gays service is completely shielded from any charges, no one will ever have to prove that their particular form of discrimination falls within the four corners of the law.

Supporting the bill on the House floor, Republican state Rep. Charles Macheers proclaimed that “discrimination is horrible.

It’s hurtful. … It has no place in civilized society, and that’s precisely why we’re moving this bill.” The latter claim is absurd, of course; this bill is an explicit effort to make gay people’s lives miserable, but the former is absolutely true. Discrimination is hurtful and horrible, and it will also soon be codified into Kansas law, as other red states look on (and follow suit). Homophobes are nothing if not savvy, and while the judiciary dukes out the gay marriage issue, the shrewdest bigots have already moved on to the next battle. There might still be time to prevent such discrimination in bluer states. But in dark-red places like Kansas, anti-gay segregation is the new reality. Q

VIEWS | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | 19

march, 2014 | issue 229 | gaysaltlake.com

guest editorial

When your friends get arrested

by James Dabakis, Utah state Senator

My friends

were arrested this week at the Utah Capitol for blocking entrance to a Senate Committee room. A few of my colleagues asked, “Don’t you think that getting arrested is terrible for your cause?

Aren’t you embarrassed?” My answer is simple: no, no, no. I am immensely proud of my friends.

It is a fundamental principle of this country that we not only have the right, but I would submit, the obligation to “redress the government for our grievances.” With The the shameful lack embarrassment, of discussion from my on SB 100, the distortion, the prospective, decision to kill is that Utah the bill without people are forced public discussion (although to be arrested supported by 72 to make their percent of Utahns government — Deseret News listen to them poll), these brave ‘arrested’ friends believed this was the only way to get their government to listen to them. They were willing to pay the price for that level of protest. The embarrassment, from my prospective, is that Utah people are forced to be arrested to make their government listen to them.

Many of the same colleagues who asked if I was embarrassed are also quietly telling me, “Don’t worry, everything you want for equality is going to happen. Now is just not the right time.” That is what they have been saying to the LGBT community in Utah for SIX years. My question back to them is “When is the right time? Will you tell me when you are ready for my equality? When will the Utah House be ready to treat all Utah citizens the same? When will the Utah Senate be ready to extend ‘liberty and justice to all’? When will the governor be ready? When exactly, will Utah

church leaders be ready to understand that diversity is not a curse but a blessing? Will you tell me, my friends, when will you be ready to grant Utah LGBT citizens their full rights?”

The words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. again inspire me. Dr King was in Birmingham Jail when a group of white allies came to him and said, “Dr King, we are with you but you have to wait, the south is just not ready.” Dr King replied: You deplore the demonstrations taking place in Birmingham. But your statement, I am sorry to say, fails to express a similar concern for the conditions that brought about the demonstrations. I am sure that none of you would want to rest content with the superficial kind of social analysis that deals merely with effects and does not grapple with underlying causes. It is unfortunate that demonstrations are taking place in Birmingham, but it is even more unfortunate that the city’s white power structure left the Negro community with no alternative.

Perhaps it is easy for those who have never felt the stinging darts of segregation to say, “Wait.” But when you have seen vicious mobs lynch your mothers and fathers at will and drown your sisters and brothers at whim; when you have seen hate filled policemen curse, kick and even kill your black brothers and sisters; when you see the vast majority of your twenty million Negro brothers smothering in an airtight cage of poverty in the midst of an affluent society; when you suddenly find your tongue twisted and your speech stammering as you seek to explain to your six year old daughter why she can’t go to the public amusement park that has just been advertised on television, and see tears welling up in her eyes when she is told that Funtown is closed to colored children, and see ominous clouds of inferiority beginning to form in her little mental sky, and see her beginning to distort her personality by developing an unconscious bitterness toward white people; when you have to concoct an answer for a five year old son who is asking: “Daddy, why do white people treat colored people so mean?”; when you take a cross county

drive and find it necessary to sleep night after night in the uncomfortable corners of your automobile because no motel will accept you; when you are humiliated day in and day out by nagging signs reading “white” and “colored”; when your first name becomes “nigger,” your middle name becomes “boy” (however old you are) and your last name becomes “John,” and your wife and mother are never given the respected title “Mrs.”; when you are harried by day and haunted by night by the fact that you are a Negro, living constantly at tiptoe stance, never quite knowing what to expect next, and are plagued with inner fears and outer resentments; when you are forever fighting a degenerating sense of “nobodiness”–then you will understand why we find it difficult to wait.

There comes a time when the cup of endurance runs over, and men are no longer willing to be plunged into the abyss of despair. I hope, sirs, you can understand our legitimate and unavoidable impatience. You express a great deal of anxiety over our willingness to break laws. This is certainly a legitimate concern.

Since we so diligently urge people to obey the Supreme Court’s decision of 1954 outlawing segregation in the public schools, at first glance it may seem rather paradoxical for us consciously to break laws. One may well ask: “How can you advocate breaking some laws and obeying others?” The answer lies in the fact that there are two types of laws: just and unjust. I would be the first to advocate obeying just laws. One has not only a legal but a moral responsibility to obey just laws. Conversely, one has a moral responsibility to disobey unjust laws. I would agree with St. Augustine that “an unjust law is no law at all.

Every civil rights march is different.

But, the movements have one thing in common—that is, they succeed because Americans and Utahns are basically fair, honorable, and decent people.

To my brave friends who spent time in jail, I salute you for your special brand of patriotism and for putting our freedoms to the test. Q James Dabakis is a Utah State Senator from Salt Lake City.

20 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | VIEWS

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

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I do not

By D’Anne Witkowski

watch The Disney Channel. Mind you, this is not any kind of elitist pronouncement. It’s just that I’m more than seven years old.

The Disney Channel does play a small role in my life, however, as my son sometimes watches it. Or, more accurately, it is frequently on the TV in the kids’ area at the gym where I drop off my son while I go work out in the hopes that it will help me live that much longer so I can keep doing the important work of being his mom.

Which I love doing because I love him.

At times when I pick him up his eyes are glued to one of many weird Disney sitcoms where children and adults try to approximate real-world snarky humor, except because it is a show for children any and all rough edges are not just smoothed, but are melted into a edgeless blob of mindless pap.

Which leads me to the show Good Luck Charlie, a show I never would have intentionally sought out except for the fact that the show recently featured Taylor, a little girl with two moms who comes over to have a play date with Charlie, the show’s namesake.

So Charlie’s mom Amy and dad Bob meet Susan and Cheryl, Taylor’s two moms. And Amy and Bob kind of bumble their way good-naturedly through the whole two-mom experience. The big gag

Everyone deserves to be happy and healthy

is that Susan goes to watch “the game” in the basement with Bob, and Cheryl stays upstairs and chats with Amy. Except the pairs don’t really mesh (Bob won’t shut up about the bugs he exterminates for a living, and Cheryl won’t stop finishing Amy’s sentences) and so a headache is faked and the play date is over.

It’s all really dull, honestly. Though I have to say good for Disney for daring to show that lesbian couples can be totally boring and annoying just like the straight couples they usually parade in front of us.

Do I need to mention that people are upset? Because people are upset. The largely pretend One Million Moms are threatening to boycott or some such bullshit.

But it’s Peter LaBarbera’s anger that most amuses me. LaBarbera, of Americans For Truth About Homosexuality, warns, “This is probably The Disney Channel’s first ‘baby step’ into more aggressive homosexual advocacy — which is not unexpected given America’s moral decline, but tragic just the same.”

Yes, how tragic that my kid might see another kid with two moms on TV. Or, worse, that kids who don’t have two moms will be subjected to something so commonplace.

“If you are a Christian and/or moralminded parent who wants to teach your children that homosexuality is aberrant and wrong behavior — i.e., you don’t want to model sinful relationships as normative to your kids — YOUR morality and faith, and your child’s innocence, are being undermined by Disney.”

He’s right that Disney is undermining your child’s innocence, though. Disney doesn’t care about anything other than making money. Which is hardly a virtuous enterprise.

But are Cheryl and Susan going to deflower America’s kids? Not so much.

Granted, this was not an anti-gay episode.

Cheryl and Susan aren’t run out of Charlie’s house. Bob doesn’t threaten to “rape them straight” and Amy doesn’t smack them in the head with a crucifix or anything. Perhaps such a rewrite would help LaBarbera sleep better at night. Q

VIEWS | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | 21

march, 2014 | issue 229 | gaysaltlake.com

a mom’s view

Grateful for my friends

by Leesa Myers

“Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive.”

—Anais Nin

Since

July 2012, I have had the pleasure of writing A Mom’s View.

It was an idea that Michael and Seth were gracious enough to grant me to bring to fruition. Since that time I have met many great friends. I have been able to sharpen my writing skills with the help of friends willing to edit and give feedback.

I was invited to attend Gay Writes, a free writing group sponsored by SLCC’s Community Writing Center, where I got to hear amazing people read their poetry, essays, novels; and where they listened to my stories and gave me valuable feedback.

You have had the pleasure of reading some of the group’s work these last few months.

As a result of great feedback, we’re excited to announce the newest column to QSaltLake — Gay Writes, this column will be replacing A Mom’s View effective in April.

My involvement in the LGBT community has been a joy and heartache for me. I feel joy to be around the most loving and accepting people I know. I have never felt or needed to wear a mask in this precious community. I love the diversity, the color, and the trust each of you gives me.

My heart aches to see the discrimination, the fear and hate that is directed at the LGBT community. It was incredible to be around the energy during those 17 days of marriage in December. The cheers as each couple came out of the County Clerk office with their license to be married. The clergy waiting enthusiastically to say the words, “You may kiss your husband or wife.”

My heart aches with legislation in session, the vile bills that are being proposed to stop the LGBT from marriage equality and basic human decencies. I am appalled that on our state tax return one legislator wants a box to mark for our money to support the legal fees to overturn marriage equality. Where is the box to stop this insane legal battle that will ultimately be defeated? Every man and women has a

right in this country to have a voice and be treated fairly and equally.

During the Sundance Film Festival I got a chance to see the movie Difrent about a 14-year-old girl that was being charged with murdering her to-be husband in Ethiopia.

The man kidnapped the girl on her way home from school. She was beaten and raped. This was the custom in the villages: If a man took a woman and bedded her, she was then to be his wife. The man left his rifle in the hut to see about some commotion outside. The girl grabbed the rifle and ran. The, man and his friends circled her with their horses and as the man walked toward her, she shot him. The girl did not have rights in the village. Those in power wanted her dead and the father to pay the son’s father restitution for his son’s death.

I forget that in America not long ago, women did not have rights of equality; I am proud and appreciative of Mark Lawrence and all that stood with him to take marriage equality to the judicial system. I will forever be grateful to Mark and the three couples for taking the risk of retribution and financial burden to be the voice for so many.

“Friends are the family you choose.”

—Jess C. Scott I have grown significantly in my understanding of the LGBT community, I, have learned that we’re the same in most ways: We struggle with our spiritual beliefs, our families, our children, our jobs, our partners, our money and our own beliefs about ourselves. We want to be accepted for us; for who we are behind the masks or labels we wear.

I want to thank you sincerely, for letting me be a part of this wonderful community.

I hope that I have brought some insight through the articles I have written. I have decided to cut back on my writing, and bring A Mom’s View to a close. I will still be a part of the community, at different functions and celebrations. I’m focusing on my business, clients, on-line classes and professional speaking to business associations and non-profits about creating

powerful, healthy, happier relationships and communication.

As with all life, this is not an ending but a beginning to a new relationship. As A Mom’s View closes a new column opens.

Each month a member of Gay Writes will have a chance to speak to you. They’re incredible writers of poetry, personal essays, short fiction, and articles. You will find out more about Gay Writes at: tinyurl. com/gaywrites

“A true friend sees you in all aspects of life; fun, sad, dancing, crying, angry, happy, and loves you even more.”

—Leesa Myers Thank you for being my friend. Q Leesa Myers, Relationship Specialist, Leesa@LeesaMyers. com, PositiveMindset.tv

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22 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | VIEWS

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

who’s your daddy?

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Think about the parents

by Christopher Katis

OK, I admit

it. When I first heard that the State of Utah’s primary argument to uphold Amendment 3 is procreation, I waited for the punch line. Somehow, the argument goes, if two dudes can get married, then Harry will marry Tom rather than Sally. That means no more babies.

Next thing you know our jam-packed classrooms are dangerously less crowded.

Seems like the only thing missing was Helen Lovejoy from The Simpsons shrieking, “Won’t someone please think of the children?”

The kids? The kids??? What about the parents? Won’t someone please think of the parents?

I mean since the state is arguing that marriage is about kids and families, if same-gender marriage is legal then discriminatory adoption laws will have to fall to allow for children to be adopted in order to make gay couples’ marriages real.

The poor things. Not the kids, the parents!

There is a myriad of reasons why perfectly happy gay couples should be spared from the horrors of parenthood because of marriage. An appeal based on protecting would-be parents by denying them marriage could focus on health issues, finances and physical intimacy.

Having kids is bad for your health.

Here’s a secret about kids that most parents don’t tell you: their little bundles of joy are walking, talking petri dishes of disease right out of some mad scientist’s biological warfare lab. Even as I write this, I have some weird laryngitis ailment, The best I can muster is a scratchy whisper.

You don’t need to be a CSI investigator to figure out who my patient zero is: Gus was sick the previous couple of days.

Before the boys came along, I was the picture of perfect health. Sure, I’d get the sniffles now and then, maybe even the flu every few years, but nothing major. Now, all it takes is for a classmate’s neighbor’s cousin’s little brother to sneeze and I catch the bubonic plague.

Kids break the bank. I remember disposable income. It was a good thing. Nothing cracks me up more than when someone reminds me that we, “get to take the boys off of our taxes.”

Yes, we do get a discount on our taxes, but trust me kids are expensive. Ignore the extras — sports, birthdays, toys — just the everyday expenses associated with life can be astonishing. And it’s a vicious circle. They need food, The kids? The which means kids??? What they grow.

They grow, about the which means parents? Won’t they need new clothes. someone please Although Niko think of the still thinks it’s parents? cool to wear his big brother’s hand-me-downs, increasingly he’s wanting his own style.

What’s really scary is that in just a few years, we’re going to have two teenage boys. The amount of food a teenage boy can eat is unreal.

Physical intimacyis a thing of the past.

Everybody knows that as soon as you get married you stop having sex. Straight, gay, doesn’t matter. Add kids to the mix and you’re really doing nothing to spark the romance. The desire is still there, but the time and energy it takes is just a buzz kill.

Just last night, I woke up to find our 7-year-old dug in under the blankets between us, while his cat was curled up between my legs - licking my foot every time it wandered outside the blankets.

Nothing says, “let’s get it on” like barbed kitty tongue and a snoring first grader.

The way I figure it, nothing would’ve made a stronger, more compassionate argument against marriage equality than trying to save us from becoming parents — sick, broke, sexless parents.

For the love of God, won’t someone please think about the parents? Q

VIEWS | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | 23

march, 2014 | issue 229 | gaysaltlake.com

guest editorial

A highlight of my years of public service

by Ralph Becker, Salt Lake City Mayor

It was a

day unlike any other and one that I’ll never forget — the first of 16 days when the freedom to marry was extended legally to all Utah couples.

It was the Friday before Christmas.

Like many others, I’m sure, I was surprised. I had just returned from a celebratory holiday lunch. When I turned on my desktop computer screen, the ruling by U.S. District Court Judge Robert J. Shelby was everywhere. And in that moment, I forwarded it to my staff with a simple exclamation, “Wow!” Before that day my reluctance to publicly embrace marriage equality had everything to do with my constitutional responsibilities. I I don’t think I am sworn to upstopped crying hold the laws of Utah; the laws of for four hours Utah, until Dec. 20, constitutionally prohibited marriage for same-sex couples. While I have long been a champion of equality, marriage for so many of our family members, friends and neighbors seemed far out of reach. But here it was, in a 53-page decision declaring that the state’s 2004 ban against marriage between two loving gay or lesbian Utahns violated the federal rights of these couples under the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

It was time to get down to the Salt Lake County Clerk office. Those four hours, before the office closed and marriages could be performed, were a highlight of my years of public service. It was thrilling. And more than anything, I don’t think I stopped crying for four straight hours.

How could anyone not? There were hundreds of people in the hallways, or rushing up the sidewalks, and filling the main office — all of us uncertain how long this moment would last. I can’t

remember ever encountering so much joy and so much love in one crowded, wonderfully chaotic space. And not just among the couples themselves, but shared, in many cases, by their children, parents or siblings, all of whom dropped everything to be there for these sudden, unexpected marriages.

In a way, there was something very traditional about these wedding parties.

The people who really mattered to these couples, who would move heaven and earth to be there for their marriages, were witnesses to this explosion of joy. It was a spontaneous outbreak of love. I’ll never forget it.

So here we are today. Before the state was granted its stay on Judge Shelby’s decision, 1,362 Utah couples married. I know people who changed their minds on marriage equality over those 16 days of pictures, celebrations and announcements.

Part of what is happening in Utah is what’s happening across the country. Gay and lesbian Utahns and Americans no longer live separate lives. We know them.

They’re members of our family, they coach our kids in little league, or work in the cubicle next to us every day.

What is happening here in Utah is what’s happening everywhere else. As each of us comes to know these fellow citizens, it brings a deeper reflection on how there are so many more similarities than differences among us. And if that is the case, then why would we deny them the protections and responsibilities that only flow from marriage?

We don’t know, of course, what will happen with this case as it moves through the appeals process and ultimately, most probably, to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Predicting the outcome is impossible and foolhardy. But here’s what I do know: Ralph Becker is mayor of Salt Lake City and a member of Mayors for the Freedom to Marry. Q

MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY MA 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY MA 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 YOU MAY 2014 2014 OF MAY IT? 2014 WILL BE MAY A PART MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY MA 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY MA 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY MA 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY MA 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014 MAY 2014

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24 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | VIEWS

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

queer shift

Whole-SHIFT

by Charles Frost

“That the powerful play goes on, and you may contribute a verse.” ~ Whitman, 1855. in life has a lot to do with feeling and being whole, contributing your verse, leaving some self-selected legacy.

Now and then I go to the Salt Lake Center for Spiritual Living with my longtime friend Lyle Larson. He tempts me to go more often, but I don’t, and I should, because every time I attend I’m renewed with how important and connected the whole self is to the spiritual self.

I tend to do my best to attach spiritual practices and elements to my life, such as music, visual/performing/literary arts, nature, poetry, children and animals, reading and writing, even meditation; however, I don’t do it as often as I should. Kind of like going with Lyle on Sunday mornings when he bribes me with mimosas before the service, and typically that’s the clincher to the deal, so we go to “church” a tad buzzed and that helps me walk in the door. I never regret doing so.

Last Sunday a tremendous time was spent on how we attract spirituality into our daily lives, a salient topic I guess, since it is a Center for Spiritual Living. Beyond that, there was music that dealt with change, and an amazing vocalist, Charles Holt, was visiting from Los Angeles,and he sang his own rendition of a favorite of mine, “Everything Must Change,” which was originally recorded by its writer Bernard Ighner for the 1974 Quincy Jones album Body Heat.

I was a college Freshman in 1974, and ever since that time this song has resonated with me very deeply. I’ve followed it from Quincy to Oleta Adams to Betty Buckley, and most recently, Nina Simone.

I was into something wholly spiritual as Charles Holt shared his superb interpretation, voice, soul and lyrics, backed by a talented in-house group of musicians.

“Everything must change Nothing stays the same.

Everyone will change No one stays the same.

The young become the old

Success

And mysteries do unfold.

‘Cause that’s the way of time Nothing and no one goes unchanged.”

And the lyrics to this song ring true.

Change is a constant. A principle. Timeless, applying to everyone, is objective.

Then why do so many of we queer folk become frozen in the process of releasing a religion, and embracing spirituality in it’s place? To get to the vitally important business of contributing a verse in this life? Getting to the whole? Religion and spirituality are two very separate and different things.

In considering ways, methods, paths to spirituality & wholeness, Rumi said it wonderfully: “If you are considering different roads, the variety is immense and the difference infinite; if you consider the goal, however, they are all harmony and are one.”

Spirituality doesn’t come by accident, at least most of the time. Sometimes an amazing spiritual experience will spontaneously collide with your life. Those are gifted moments and should be treasured and should be deemed of great fortune.

Spirituality comes from consistent hard work in pursuit of having more of it in your life. It comes from a desire that drives you, day and night, renews, enlivens and revives you. It also comes from constantly and diligently employing some key habits that position you to be a regular recipient.

The following are some habits that have worked for me. May I humbly suggest you ponder and possibly even apply.

1. Have a Plan and Practice A plan that nurtures, develops and maintains spirituality in your life. Keep your mind in the realm. Your soul should be tightly bound to the beauty and abundance spirituality provides in your life. Set spiritual goals, just like you do other elements in life where you wish to succeed.

Reserve time and don’t deviate from achieving the goals. The more you focus on a constant spirituality in your life, moment to moment, hourly, daily, weekly, the more likely you are to find it and receive the personal benefits of it.

2. Choose Spirituality that Fits You Concentrate on what you like, whether it be meditation, physical exertion, like a hike and then find solitude within nature, music and perceiving your world, go with what you like. Understand and utilize your ability to be spiritual, without shame, fear, guilt, or self judgement as to whether you are doing it right or correctly. Carve out time for the rejuvenation of your spiritual best self.

3. Keep it Simple This pays off when it comes to spiritual dividends. It’s important for you to have success if it’s simple, enjoyable and something you look forward to doing.

I suggest a spiritual space in your home.

Go to that place to practice and find what is spiritual to you. Take a diversion into splendid nature; for there the soul cannot help but be spiritually awakened. Use all your senses, leave none untapped.

4. Frame Your Experiences It’s essential to surround yourself with wise, truth-telling, spiritually abundant people who strive and try to inspire, just like you. Perhaps you may share similar dreams and philosophies of what matters most in life.

5. Ponder the Meaning At the end of the day reflect on the spiritual events of the day. Mull them over, sit with them — sifting through — to find the gold. Take some time to reflect on everything you’ve learned. You’ll be surprised how often a moment of quiet reflection will turn up the gem.

6. Go with Your Gut I truly believe in trusting your own instincts. Intuition should never be underestimated. If gay people were to do this thing only, then a satisfying life of authenticity would be so much more attainable and sustainable. I never make a huge or big decision in life until I have examined it using my head, heart and gut.

Ultimately, what is best for me and my whole life presents itself. Your gut feeling (which lives in very close proximity to your soul,) isn’t an empty sense; it’s based on all of the experiential knowledge you have gathered throughout your years.

It’s your sixth sense. Trust it.

Spiritual moments are often short-lived, but the journey lasts forever. Make your journey count, without regret. Q

march, 2014 | issue 229 | gaysaltlake.com

VIEWS | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | 25

Open your heart and help a homeless youth.

26 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | VIEWS

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

lambda lore

Mountain and desert

by Ben Williams

This June

will be the 45th anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion that ignited the Gay Civil Rights movement of the latter half of the 20th century. The significance of this event is demonstrated by the fact that before Stonewall there were less than 20 homosexual organizations in the United States, and none in Utah. However, within five years, there were at least that many in this state alone.

I have spent my entire life as part of the Stonewall generation. I moved to Utah in 1973 when I was 21 years old. I have witnessed, over my lifetime, a change seemingly almost impossible when I was a younger man. Now that AARP would gladly number me within its ranks, I firmly believe that within the next few years, or sooner, the societal change ignited at the Stonewall Inn will finally illuminate the long darkness we, as gay people, have been cloaked for so long.

Nearly half a century of steady progress has taken us to this point where we are beginning to see Red States’ anti-marriage equality laws fall like dominoes. This is possible because of the nearly 50 years it’s taken to change and educate the hearts and minds of a generation of younger people, almost all of whom were born after the Stonewall riot.

However, nothing comes easy, even today. Entrenched ideologies erode only slowly, if erased at all. The Gay Civil Rights movement has been mostly nonviolent, and even when violence occurs the anger has been against property not people. Civil disobedience has been the fountain of our strength. We get beaten but we don’t beat back. We are discriminated against and yet we don’t discriminate ourselves as a movement. We get arrested for civil disobedience and yet we don’t hate the oppressor.

The life of a gay person is a life of struggle. We struggle with coming out.

We struggle with hate, prejudice and lies; sometimes even within our own families.

So we make new families. Love finds a way.

It takes time and courage and persever-

ance to make significant change. Each of us who have come out and struggled along side their gay brothers and sisters are like millions of raindrops falling from a rainbow which is wearing down the stony hearts, calcified by fear and malice.

There’s a dichotomy in Utah which lends itself to a parable. Utah is a harsh place and yet majestic. Desert and mountain. First and foremost, Utah is a desert, unforgiving, relenting its resources only to a spirit stronger than itself. The rose may bloom but at an incredible cost.

The desert is, however, surrounded by towering, ancient lofty mountains, life-sustaining mountains, soul-nurturing mountains. The Wasatch beckons us to climb, to grasp and move upward toward higher ground; where one can view vistas unimaginable in the desert below.

Within this desert there some people who were tired of the harshness. They began to look toward the mountains.

The mountains seemed to be offering protection. These few visionaries encouraged others to come, to climb, but most people were so use to living in the desert they could not imagine being anywhere else. Soon these dreamers realized the others had to taught there was a better place. They had to be taught they had the strength to climb.

The mountain dreamers found others like themselves who were willing to help the desert people prepare for an exodus.

It was not easy. Older desert people found it difficult to believe that living anywhere else was possible or practical. They asked “Why move to the mountains?”

No one seems to know why, but they agreed they were tired of the desert. But to the older desert dwellers, the idea of climbing a mountain seemed very radical. They wanted no part of it.

Eventually, the mountain climbing commenced one step at a time, soon one hill at a time. It was very arduous. There were no paths and no maps. Just the desire to climb.

But there was a sense of safety in numbers.

Nevertheless, many people, sensing danger,

turned back to the desert. They were saddened but comfortable.

But still, most others continued up, blazing trails, establishing routes, and marveling at the vistas that could be seen from the foothills of the mountain across the desert below. They had no idea of the beauty and wonder of looking over their travels.

Every journey has risks, trials and tribulations. As more and more people were trailing up the path, one day a terrible rock slide created an avalanche of monumental portions, which decimated many of the strongest and most adamant mountaineers. The terrible landslide swept away hundreds from the mountain paths, as well as cascading down to the desert, burying people there. It was a terrible blow. Many desert people said it was a sign from God to stay off the There’s a mountain. dichotomy in Those already on the mounUtah which lends tain, however, itself to a parable. were determined to stay Utah is a harsh and care for the place and yet sick and dying, and mourn majestic. Desert their dead. and mountain.

The desert people then thought of themselves as mountain people and said they would never go back to the desert.

However, they were determined to be more careful and warn those coming up the mountain of rock slides and other perils.

While they rested and mourned, other desert people cursed them and threw rocks at them and reviled them so harshly that they had no choice but to climb. Some desert people, witnessing how they were being treated, realized they must climb or perish. They climbed, following the paths, although most reluctantly.

After the avalanche the pathfinders were tired. Many were old now. Most were exhausted, some were ill, however they could see the top of the mountain which gladdened their hearts, but they were too weary to lead.

Coming up from behind, there appeared among the trekkers a younger group of

VIEWS | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | 27

march, 2014 | issue 229 | gaysaltlake.com

professional mapmakers and geologists who encouraged the people who were half way up the mountain, but floundering without the trailblazers.

Though the mountain top was in site, the people knew the path was still treacherous. Reassured by the mapmakers and geologists, the people climbed higher and higher. Soon the climbers were led by the mapmakers and geologists, who expected to be paid for their hire. The weary pathfinders grumbled but none enlisted.

Eventually, a second generation of people were on the mountain who had never known life off the mountain.

They had always seen waterfalls, and ponds, and rivers, and lakes and could not imagine what life must have been like in the desert. So further up the mountain the people went.

Refreshed by the life-giving mountains, rejuvenated by the

smell of freedom, the second generation wantoned for their own path up the mountain.

They felt they didn’t want to follow a mapmaker’s charted path. They knew mapmakers and geologists knew no more than they how to reach the summit.

This second generation, unencumbered by the desert people, intuitively knew their own internal compass would guide them upward to where the light touches the top of the mountain. High on a mountaintop a rainbow is unfurled.

There our light should attract the gays of all the world in latter days.

Here in Utah, we are so close to “Mount Equality.” We can almost taste it. We want to run because it’s almost in our grasp. We are almost there. The trailblazers and dreamers have done their jobs. Q

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Utah Stonewall Historical Society Read about Utah’s gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender history as written by Utah’s Gay historian, Ben Williams at

benwilliamswritings.blogspot.com Add check daily for ‘This day in gay Utah history” at

benwilliamsblogger.blogspot.com

28 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | SPRING ARTS GUIDE

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

50 Years of Ballet West

Mixing

first-time productions and old favorites, Ballet West is in the middle of celebrating its 50th anniversary, having been formed in 1963, all while in the midst of construction of a huge downtown rehearsal and office space.

The company’s 2013-2014 season includes six exciting world premieres, a Utah premiere, a major revival and outstanding productions that honor Ballet West’s rich legacy.

Ballet West’s spring production is a world premiere by resident choreographer Nicolo Fonte, The Rite of Spring.

Set to Igor Stravinsky’s epic creation, it is designed to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the score while addressing current global issues.

Also part of the program is the Ballet West premiere of Jiri Kylian’s urgent and tender Forgotten Land, of which our cover photo by Erik Ostling shows Ballet West principal artists Christiana Bennett, Arolyn Williams and Katherine Lawrence.Set to Benjamin Britten’s stirring Sinfonia da Requiem, written for the Japanese government to mark the 2,600th anniversary of the founding of the Japanese Empire.

Last in the program is George Balanchine’s classic Divertimento No. 15, which embodies the playful elegance of Mozart’s music.

This performance will run April 11 through 19 at the newly remodeled Capitol Theatre.

In May, BW’s New Works program will present Innovations 2014, spotlighting new creations by company artists and world premieres by Philadelphia-based choreographer Matthew Neenan and Ballet West Principal Artist Christopher Ruud.

Innovations allows exploration into new and cutting-edge artistic territory.

This show will be at the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center from May 16 to 24.

“I have designed our 50th Anniversary season to honor the past, celebrate the present and keep an eye on the future,” said Ballet West Artistic Director Adam Sklute. “Each program this year pays homage to our founder ‘Mr. C’ and all of my predecessors, while continuing to offer

Utah audiences the new and exciting repertoire that keeps Ballet West a forerunner in American ballet.”

“Mr. C” refers to William F. Christensen, who not only co-founded BW, but established the first ballet department in an American university at The University of Utah, and is also credited with launching the national holiday tradition of The

Nutcracker when it debuted at the San Francisco Ballet under his tutelage as artistic director.

The other co-founder was Utah’s “First Lady of the Arts” Glenn Walker Wallace, who was founder and president of Ballet West, as well as the Utah Symphony.

More information on Ballet West and the upcoming performances can be found at balletwest.org

Pioneer Theatre Company brings Neil Simon and Ira Levin hits to the stage this spring This month, Pioneer Theatre Company finishes its run of William Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing on March 8, and kicks off Ira Levin’s Deathtrap on March 28. Towards the end of Spring, they will perform Neil Simon, Cy Coleman and Dorothy Fields’ Sweet Charity.

One of Shakespeare’s most popular comedies, Much Ado About Nothing spins a dizzying web of romantic and marital intrigue that forms a background for crackling verbal wit. Seduction, trickery and power leave you on the edge of your seat in this timeless battle of the sexes. Filled with masquerade balls and mistaken identities, this show is Shakespeare’s clever romantic comedy that shows how love brings out both the best and worst in us.

Deathtrap is Broadway’s longest running comic thriller. When a once successful Broadway playwright struggles to overcome a dry spell that’s resulted in a string of flops and a shortage of funds, anxiety

ensues. His fortunes turn when one of his students shares a brilliant new script with blockbuster potential. Resolved to resurrect his collapsing career, the covetous playwright conceives of a treacherous trap to snare the script and take credit for its creation. Murderous machinations result, springing to a surprising conclusion that has left audiences breathless for decades.

In Sweet Charity, Charity Hope Valentine is the eternal optimist — a worldview that puts her distinctly at odds with her co-workers in a seedy, run-down dance hall. Dancing with man after man to pay her rent, she dreams of finally being whisked out of there and rescued by love.

But can Charity wish her way into making love come true?

Pioneer Theatre Company is a fully professional theatre in-residence at the University of Utah and produces a 7-play season September through May. For more information and tickets, go to pioneertheatre.org

2013/14 utah symphony season

ROGERS & HAMMERSTEIN Mar 28–29 / 8 pm Abravanel Hall

Jerry Steichen, Conductor | Lisa Vroman, Soprano | Gary Mauer, Tenor William Michals, Baritone | Utah Symphony Chorus It will be an “enchanted evening” at Abravanel Hall. Join Jerry and the Utah Symphony as they highlight the careers of music theatre legends Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II. Featured on this program will be hits from The King and I and The Sound of Music along with many more classic shows from the undisputed kings of Broadway.

Tickets start at $18.

Buy your tickets today at utahsymphony.org or by calling 801-355-arTS (2787)

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30 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | SPRING ARTS

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

Plan-B brings ‘Season of Eric’ to a close with a trio of women’s stories After retiring from a 20-year teaching gig at Brigham Young University, Eric Samuelsen found himself in remission Rickt Bell’s disease — a muscular degenerative disease. This opened up his schedule to write a full season of plays for Plan-B Theatre Company.

The final show opens March 27 and is a trio of plays focused on Mormon women.

Two were part of a series written eight years ago and the third is new.

The first, Bar and Kell, is about two women who want to help a single mother, but find they are more compelled to do a complete makeover of her life.

In Community Standard, a woman serving on the jury of an indecency trial is forced to confront issues in her marriage.

And Duets, the new play, depicts what happens when a woman marries a gay man thinking she can change him and learns she can’t.

The production opens March 27 and runs through April 6 at the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center Studio Theatre, 138 W. Broadway.

BANNED On May 7, Plan-B will bring back And the Banned Played On with leaders reading from a surprising list of banned children’s books.

Equality Utah’s Brandie Balken, Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker, Rep. Joel Briscoe, Rep. Rebecca Chavez-Houck, Sen. Jim Dabakis, actor Anne Cullimore Decker, Salt Lake County Attorney Sim Gill, Salt Lake couinty Mayor Ben McAdams, Rep. Carol Moss, Utah AISD Foundation director San Penfold and Rep. Jen Seelig will be doing the readings.

The books include: Where’s Waldo? by Martin Handford, Banned in 1987. The book was banned and then reprinted because it originally showcased a topless beachgoer (not like anyone could find her if they tried, though).

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein, Banned in 1988. Everyone’s favorite childhood book was banned from a public library in Colorado because it was considered “sexist.” It was also challenged by several schools because it “criminalized the foresting agency.”

Winnie-the-Pooh by A. A. Milne, Banned in 2006. Talking animals are somehow considered an “insult to god,” resulting in this book’s banning throughout random

parts of the United States.

Several institutions in Turkey and the UK have also banned the book, claiming that the character of Piglet is offensive to Muslims. Other institutions claim that the book revolves around Nazism.

James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl, Banned in 1999. The book was banned from an elementary School in Texas because it included the word “ass.”

Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh, Banned in 1983. The book was banned from several schools for being “a bad example for children.” It was also challenged for teaching “children to lie, spy, talk back, and curse.”

Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank, Banned in 2010. Forget anti-semitism; the 50th Anniversary “Definitive Edition’” was instead banned by a Virginia school because of its “sexual content and homosexual themes.” Additionally, the book was previously banned by several schools in the United States because it was “too depressing.” Most recently, in May of 2013, a Michigan mom tried to get the book banned due to its “pornographic tendencies.”

Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson, Banned in 1996. The book was banned from several classrooms in Pennsylvania on accounts of “profanity, disrespect for adults, and an elaborate fantasy world that might lead to confusion.” The book has also been banned by other schools for its use of the phrases “Oh Lord” and “Lord.”

Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White, Banned in 2006. Similar to Winnie-the-Pooh, this book was banned in Kansas because talking animals are considered an “insult to god.”

Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll, Banned in 1900. Apparently there are references to sexual fantasies and masturbation in this book, resulting in its ban from classrooms in New Hampshire. Since this original banning, the book has been challenged by thousands of other institutions, most famously in the 1960s in fear that it

would promote drug use to children.

Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak, Banned in 1963. The book was primarily banned in most southern states immediately following its publication, and it has since been challenged due to the fact that it promotes “witchcraft and supernatural events.”

The Lorax by Dr. Seuss, Banned in 1989. A California school district banned the book and claimed that it “criminalized the foresting industry” and would thus persuade children against logging.

Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss, Banned in “Until as recently as 1991”. Remember that time when Sam I Am tried to seduce his friend? Me neither. But the book was banned in California on accounts of “homosexual seduction.” It was also banned in China for “early Marxism” from 1965 until Dr. Seuss’ death in 1991.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl, Banned in 1988.

A Colorado library banned the book because it embraced a “poor philosophy of life.”

Additionally, since its publication in 1964, the book was under fire for comparing the Oompa Loompas to Africans. The characters’ descriptions were later changed in an edited version in 1988.

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

by L. Frank Baum, Banned in 1928. All public libraries in Chicago banned the book because of its “ungodly” influence “for depicting women in strong leadership roles.” In 1957, the Detroit Public Library banned the book for having “no value for children of today.”

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do you see? by Bill Martin, Jr. Banned in 2010. The Texas State Board of Education briefly banned this picture book after confusing its author, Bill Martin, Jr., with philosopher Bill Martin, author of ‘Ethical Marxism: The Categorical Imperative of Liberation.’ Q More info at planbtheatre.org

SPRING ARTS | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | 31

march, 2014 | issue 229 | gaysaltlake.com

Salt Lake Men’s Choir presents ‘Does Your Mother Know — the Music of ABBA Talk about Dancing Queens. The Salt Lake Men’s Choir is deep into rehearsals for their Spring show, “Does Your Mama Know: The Music of Abba.”

Whether you know them as ’70s club staples, classic rock radio regulars or the basis for the soundtrack to Mamma Mia!, pop phenomenon ABBA’s timeless hits remain favorites of music fans around the world. Sing along to “Waterloo,” “Gimme!

Gimme! Gimme! (a Man After Midnight)” and “Voulez Vous.”

Hop on this entertaining ride through musical history and relive the fabulous costumes, booty-shaking moves and excitement of the disco-era heyday.

And with this choir singing the songs, some take on a whole new meaning — “Does Your Mother Know (that You’re Out),” “When I Kissed the Teacher,” “Fernando,” and of course, “Dancing Queen.”

The concert will be presented at the Masonic Temple, 650 E. South Temple on Saturday, May 17 at 7:30 p.m.

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do it

A compilation of do-it-yourself projects and installations instructed by renowned contemporary artists. “do it” is a traveling exhibition conceived and curated by Hans Ulrich Obrist, and organized

by Independent Curators International (ICI), New York.

STREET GALLERY + NEW GENRES GALLERY: JAN 17 - APR 26

Trent Harris ECHO CAVE

The first retrospective into the creative genius of this Utah cult filmmaker.

Sponsored by the Deluxe Corporation Foundation

20 S WEST TEMPLE • 84101 | UTAHMOCA.ORG TUE–THU & SAT 11AM–6PM • FRI 11AM–9PM

32 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | ARTS

Tony’s Gay Agenda ANNUAL EVENTS Having been beat out by that crazy lesbian Ellen DeGeneres as host of this year’s Academy Awards show, and the fact that Mark Wahlberg is not nominated this year, I have decided to RSVP my Evite from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to attend the awards ceremony.

(Can you believe those cheapskates sending an Evite?) If you are as jilted as I am by that boyish talk-show host, here is a fabulous alternative. Go Jared Leto!

2sunday

— The Utah AIDS Foundation’s Red Carpet Gala The Rail Events Center, 235 N. 500 West, 6pm.

Tickets $120, utahaids.org. Black tie optional and festive attire encouraged.

BAR EVENTS I’ve worked there, I’ve danced there, I’ve howled karaoke there, I’ve slept there, I’ve wept there -- therefore, I am focusing this month on some of the events at Club Try-Angles, 251 W. 900 South.

No disrespect to JAM, Paper Moon, and those dozens of name-withheld gay bars in Salt Lake. Thank you to David Willheitenmypainthreshold (or whatever your last name is) for sending me the info. Call 801-364-3203 for more event details.

2sunday

— Oscar Night with

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

the Matrons of Mayhem Black tie optional and drag attire encouraged.

City, 7:30pm. Tickets $39-65, egyptiantheatrecompany.com. Through March 30.

— Leather and Gear Night Leather attire sort of necessary.

— 3 Presented

by Plan-B Theatre Company. Studio Theatre, Rose Wagner Center, 138 W. 300 South, times vary. Tickets $20, arttix.org.

Performances run through April 6.

7friday 15saturday

— Green with Envy Underwear Night Underwear might be optional.

28friday

— Final Friday Flash Back 70’s, 80’s & 90’s attire is rad, smokin’ and pumped.

Oh, and one other at a gay-friendly bar for a good cause:

1saturday

— Johnny’s on Second is hosting a These times are a changin’ to benefit Restore Our Humanity from 7 to midnight. 165 E Second South.

THEATRE The theatre world has long been considered a little gay, though not as outrageously gay as Johnny Weir during his commentating of the Sochi Olympic Winter figure skating events, and while fishing. This month highlights a gay favorite among musicals and two from gay-headed theatre companies -- one that follows a tragic event that ultimately turns hatred into love, and the other telling individual stories of the realities of three Utah women’s lives.

6thursday

— Women of Lockerbie Presented by Pygmalion Productions. Black Box Theatre, Rose Wagner Center, 138 W. 300 South, 7:30pm. Tickets $20, arttix.org. Through March 22.

14friday

— My Fair Lady Presented by Egyptian Theatre Company.

Egyptian Theatre, 328 Main Street, Park

27thursday

CONCERTS While you desperately wait lip-bitten for Katy Perry with Tegan and Sara to perform Sept. 29 at Energy Solutions Arena, allow me to suggest checking out an adorable, soulful, up-and-coming artist who debuts the music of her first full-length album in a live concert tour. To learn more about her, see the interview in this issue of QSaltLake.

28friday

— Jillette Johnson Kilby Court, 741 S. 300 West, 7pm. Tickets $10, 24tix.com.

SPECIAL ENGAGEMENT Two shows sure to please audiences this March are featured here. One involves puppet debauchery, and no it’s not Avenue Q … please, I’ve had more puppet debauchery using my left hand! Ummm, the other show involves aerial feats, acrobatics, and if you’re lucky, twerking.

9sunday

— Puppet Up! Uncensored Presented by Jim Henson Company. Eccles Center, 1750 Kearns Blvd., Park City, 7:30pm. Tickets $20-69, ecclescenter.org.

29saturday

— Chess a Cirque Show Presented by Aeris Aerial.

Jeanne Wagner Theatre, Rose Wagner Center, 138 W. 300 South, 2pm & 7:30pm.

Tickets $18-20, arttix.org.

Order your Special, Commemorative, Glossy Edition of QSaltLake, Celebrating 17 Days of Same-Sex

Marriage in Utah

The edition is beautiful and full of stories on who the plaintiff couples are, who Restore Our Humanity is, and many many photos and stories of newly married couples (are you in there?) and more.

All proceeds benefit Restore Our Humanity to keep the legal team going. Only $5 per issue plus USPS First Class shipping at QMartStore.com

SPRING ARTS | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | 33

march, 2014 | issue 229 | gaysaltlake.com

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do it do it began as a conversation between artists Christian Boltanski and Bertrand Lavier and Curator Hans Ulrich Obrist, who were interested in the idea of an open-ended exhibition format that was flexible enough to transform with each location and enactment. To test the concept, Obrist invited 12 artists to submit instructions which were translated into nine languages and circulated internationally as a book.

With more than 50 stops worldwide, do it has become the largest collection of DIY, instructional works to date, including newly commissioned pieces from artists selected by Obrist and ICI. do it’s presentation is less concerned with notions of reproduction or materiality of the artworks. Rather, this exhibition is about revealing the nuances of human interpretation in its various iterations. Based on written instructions by renowned artists as a point of departure, UMOCA’s reenactment of do it is uniquely site-specific to

Utah through the engagement with the community and use of resources available locally.

Through May 31 | FREE

Trent Harris: Echo Cave This is the first retrospective into the creative genius of the Utah cult filmmaker. This exhibition presents drawings, photographs, artists books, and short films that illuminate Harris’s process and inimitable style. Internationally renowned for films such as The Beaver Trilogy and Rubin & Ed, Harris demonstrates a lasting influence on underground cinema with his independent filmmaking and visual art practice.

The world of Harris’s films is populated by recluses and misfits that reflect his own status as an outsider. Just as Harris works in the margins of independent filmmaking, his subjects often exist in the margins of society. Harris’s filmic treatment of these individuals is marked by a humanism and a wry sense of humor that has elevated his films to cult-status.

Through Apr 26 | FREE

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34 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | INTERVIEW

Tearing It Up Mary Lambert on ‘Same Love,’ Grammy night and what it’s like having Madonna dry your tears

By Chris Azzopardi

“I’m not crying

on Sundays,” Mary Lambert assures herself on the song that got her to the Grammys. But this Sunday was different. This Sunday was better.

Singing the heart-lifting chorus to Macklemore’s “Same Love,” which was nominated for Song of the Year, Lambert made her Grammy debut on Jan. 26.

That’s when she lost it. But these weren’t tears of sadness or shame. These were tears of joy. Tears of being inspired and moved and all those things you feel when you share the stage with gay couples who are finally able to get married, a monumental celebration that took place at the awards show, with Queen Latifah officiating.

Emotions ran high that night, but Lambert, 24, had a new friend nearby — a new friend by the name of Madonna.

And the icon didn’t just sing Lambert’s words, but, like something out of a fever dream, swooped in and wiped away her tears.

Lambert, who just released her own solo EP called Welcome to the Age of My Body, was still emotional when she spoke about that unforgettable night.

You must be pinching yourself. What was your Grammy experience like? It was really emotional from start to finish. I already feel like Cinderella because I was bartending last year and didn’t know how I was gonna pay rent. Now I’ve been nominated for a Grammy — and I took my mom, which was a dream of mine — but then to be able to do this song, and to do it on this magnitude with this beautiful choir and fucking Madonna and Queen Latifah, are you kidding me? It’s just stupid, dude. If I really think about it, I lose it.

You cry? Yeah, like, “I don’t deserve this.” I’m still working on my positive self-talk. (Laughs)

What was it like being part of the wedding ceremony? Honestly, that was the most emotional part. Being in rehearsal and hearing Madonna sing my words and hearing the choir come in, that was emotional, but being in the dress rehearsal at the Grammys and watching the couples come in, I couldn’t get through the song for almost every rehearsal. I wasn’t sure how I was gonna perform because it was so beautiful. You saw on their faces how much it meant to them, and I knew how much it would mean to the viewer. How do you process that? It’s the most beautiful thing that exists in the world.

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

INTERVIEW | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | 35

march, 2014 | issue 229 | gaysaltlake.com

What were rehearsals with Madonna like? We had long rehearsals — and I wouldn’t say we’re close, but we got to know each other’s mannerisms and how we operate. I consider her a friend. She was very kind to me, and because we had to work together, I had to be like, “Hey, this is how I sing the song.” (Laughs) Is it weird telling Madonna how to sing? Uh yeah! Everybody froze when I was like, “Hey, Madonna, do you think you could try singing it like this — the way I sing it?” (Laughs) Were you at all intimidated by that? I was a little shaky when I first met her because her entourage came in and she said, “I’m Madonna.” But, I think it was during dress rehearsal, she had her leather gloves on and I’m sobbing watching these people who are about to exchange their vows and she leans over — and she’s wiping the tears from my face with her leather gloves and looking at me! I’m like, “What the fuck is my life?” Like, what do you do? You just let Madonna wipe your tears, that’s what you do. (Laughs) Your first performance was when you were a kid, for a gaggle of Beanie Babies.

What’s it like performing for real people? It’s how it should be! I feel like I was made to be a performer and I just depend so much on the energy — like, warm, breathing bodies. (Laughs) You struggled with your sexuality when you were a teenager. And, really, in many ways you epitomize the “it gets better” story, don’t you? Yeah, but I had a really amazing support system. The conflict was not external; the conflict definitely had to do with reconciling my faith and my sexuality. There was no enemy, you know?

Just yourself? Yeah. When I was a kid, I wanted to be in love so badly. It was more of this obsession with being in love, and so I always had a boyfriend, but I knew that I found girls much more physically appealing. Honestly, everything that I thought I was is how I thought everybody else felt. I thought that other girls would try to make out with their friends too!

(Laughs) I just thought that was something that girls did — that they fantasized about boobs! I just thought that was a thing. I thought everybody preferred to be with women, but the weird thing is that my mom is gay so it’s not like it wasn’t OK. It just didn’t occur to me that I could be that way. I questioned it a lot. Like, “I

think I could see myself having sex with a woman” — and this is me at 12 years old saying these things. (Laughs) I was highly analytical.

At 12 years old? Yeah! (Laughs) I’ve always been sure of who I am. In high school, there was one bi girl who was like, “I date girls.” I was like, “You can date girls and that’s OK?” The real turmoil of it happened when I was 18 or 19. I was attending an Evangelical church and I met this girl and I was in love with her. I wanted to be with her but I didn’t want to sin.

How was writing cathartic for you at that time in your life? That was everything to me. It was the only way I could have gotten through it. I discovered spoken word around the time I came out, maybe two years afterward, but about the peak of my suicide attempt is when I wrote my first poem. It was about being conflicted about the Christian church and being gay and how difficult that was.

Poetry really got me out of it.

How does it feel to sing “I’m not crying on Sundays,” then, during the chorus of “Same Love”? It’s so empowering. It’s the most empowering thing. It feels like a declaration for me, but I also know that it’s so many other people’s stories. I think that’s what makes me feel so strongly about it. Not that the gay community is silenced and I’m speaking for them, but like I can be an advocate. I really just wanted to bring a universal truth to the song rather than politicize [the issue] any more than it’s already become.

The biggest declaration for me is definitely saying “I’m not crying on Sundays.” I spent every Sunday for a year crying in church. It was just guilt and so much shame, and so for me that’s a declaration, like, “Fuck shame, I’m not sorry, I’m not apologizing for who I am.”

I’m not gonna cry anymore about being oppressed.

Was the chorus of “Same Love” written about your girlfriend, Michelle Chamuel of The Voice? Umm … that song has seen many different incarnations. It’s been about a series of really great loves that I have had, so I wouldn’t say it’s about anyone super in particular.

Were you surprised to hear the song on the radio?

When it first made its debut on the radio it blew my mind, but when it hit hip-hop radio I was like, “Oh, it’s fucking over.”

How does it feel to be a Grammynominated artist so early in your career? I’m trying to wrap my head around it. The whole thing just feels like a fluke — and like someone’s gonna take it away. (Laughs) Are there any plans to work with Macklemore in the future? I would love to. He shot to a place that is bananas, so honestly I just think it’s about timing and scheduling. We both really respect each other as artists, and he’s so supportive of everything I do. We’re buddies, you know?

You’ve done some tour dates with Tegan and Sara. What was it like hanging out with them? I don’t know if Tegan knows this, but maybe it’s just time for it to come out: In all of my previous relationships, Tegan has been that one person who I’m allowed to sleep with. She was my pass.

We were performing “Same Love” for an iTunes show and I’m like, “I am meeting Tegan and Sara today!” They were performing right before us and I was like, “Oh my god, they’re gonna see me perform. I have to make sure my cleavage looks great.” So I’m sitting in the dressing room, which happens to be a bridal suite and so there’s wedding pics everywhere, and I walk in and go, “This is how it happens.” They’re just totally awesome.

No makey-outy time, though.

What do you hope to accomplish with Welcome to the Age of My Body? The word I kept telling myself surrounding this album was empowerment. I want to empower myself and empower and mobilize other people with art. If I’m unsuccessful, I’m unsuccessful, but it’s worth trying.

What I hope this record achieves is a sense of vulnerability. I want to be as vulnerable as possible with my audience, because I think there are a lot of issues that I’m working out. It’s more of me opening up and hoping to be held, and then also hoping my voice can encircle a hug.

Because this is mostly a spoken-word album, does it feel like a risk to release it on a major label? I’m fucking terrified.

I know in my heart what it can do, but there’s no formula for it. I don’t know if it’s been done before. Either it changes something or it totally flops — I don’t know if I’m supposed to say that — but I have faith in it. I have faith in the power of what words can do. Q Chris Azzopardi is the editor of Q Syndicate, the international LGBT wire service. Reach him via his website at www.chris-azzopardi.com.

36 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | INTERVIEW

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

Jillette Johnson, who will be in Salt Lake this month, talks of ‘Cameron’ trans* song

By Gregg Shapiro

Water in a Whale (Wind-Up), the fulllength debut album by Jillette Johnson, is the kind of album that fans of female singer/songwriters spend long hours waiting for and will mostly likely embrace with open arms. Johnson, an assured and mature songwriter and performer at 24, sets the tone with the single, “Cameron,” one of the most powerful statements by a straight performer to the LGBT community since Patty Griffin’s “Tony.” “Cameron,” about a trans kid, is insightful and uplifting, and deserves to be a hit. Johnson wisely keeps the music on the disc varied, from the explosive opener “Torpedo” and the stormy “Last Bus Out” to the sexually provocative “Pauvre Couer” and the blind devotion of “Basset Hound.” There is also a “stripped” version of “Cameron” and a pair of b-sides (“17” and “Box of Crayons”) to provide listeners the full scope of Johnson’s abilities.

I spoke with Johnson, who is back on tour in support of Water in a Whale, and will be at Kilby Court in Salt Lake City on March 28, shortly before the release of the disc.

Gregg Shapiro: Jillette, I was fortunate enough to catch your performance at Lincoln Hall in Chicago. One of the first things I noticed about your live show is that you have a great sense of humor and that you are an engaging and natural born storyteller. Is that an important compo-

nent of your live performance? Absolutely it is. It took me a while to cultivate that.

I think I’m constantly growing with it.

When I used to play shows, I was terrified about speaking between songs. I would speak, but I would speak quietly and quickly. It was so obvious when I was losing the audience and it scared the shit out of me. So I made a conscious effort to try and pretend like I was talking to my family and friends and breathe and take my time and not assume that people didn’t care. I used to assume that people didn’t want to hear me speak. [Laughs] That’s never the right way to start out. I now feel that it’s a hugely important part of my show because it allows people to see who I am and to see that these songs come from me. That I have many layers as an artist and to relate to some of the things that I say.

I also took note of several queer audience members responding to your performance, including your song “Cameron” — do you have an awareness of a following in the LGBT community? Yes. I’m starting to see that happen and it’s really exciting. I wrote that song because I have a friend who experienced that journey. I was compelled to talk about it. I’m not saying that I’m an expert in the field but I know, in a different way, how it feels to be alien in your own skin. I love that people are ral-

lying around it and that it speaks to people in a real way. The last thing that I wanted was to write a song about someone else’s story and have people tell me it’s false.

Does that song have any relation to your involvement with the anti-bullying organization Hey U.G.L.Y. — Unique Gifted Lovable You? It does. I learned about Hey U.G.L.Y. through the person on whom “Cameron” is based. That program has helped this kid quite a lot. I started doing more research and realized how amazing it is as an organization.

What can you tell me about your songwriting process in general? It’s usually in my apartment and always at the piano.

I have to be pretty emotionally available.

I don’t have to be in pain or anything, but I have to be in a certain headspace. Then I just keep walking back to the piano and I’ll start playing something as if the song has already been written. Sometimes it feels like magic and sometimes it feels like nothing. I try to pay attention to the things that feel really good to sing. It’s all really spontaneous. It’s almost like I’m free-styling. Once I find something that I think has legs, I hack away at it for hours.

Then I get up and leave or watch TV or go for a walk. If I have conversations with people throughout the course of the day while I’m in the middle of writing a song they usually have about 30 percent of my attention because I’m always working.

There is a long tradition of piano-playing female singer/songwriters from Joni Mitchell, Carole King and Carly Simon

march, 2014 | issue 229 | gaysaltlake.com

to more recent names such as Tori Amos and Regina Spektor. Who do you consider to be your influences? All of the women you just named are people who’ve been really influential to me. Regina is certainly the most current of those and I admire her work. But Joni Mitchell and Carole King, from the beginning, were women I really admired and never stopped listening to. The thing that I love about their music is it’s so full of soul and it’s so honest, and it takes a while to dig into it. Joni more than Carole, I think. Carole’s songs were little more accessible, at first. I am definitely lucky to be able to look at this legacy of powerful and soulful women.

During your set you told a funny story about talking to straight men who wouldn’t think twice about having sex with Ryan Gosling. Do you think, in a small way, that’s comment on your generation and how far the culture has evolved? I think so. I definitely have met people my age who are still pretty terrified of their own sexuality and that projects hate, unfortunately. But I think that slowly but surely were starting to live in a world where people are comfortable

enough to say what they really are. So it’s okay to say that you think a man is attractive if you’re a straight man. I think that such a breath of fresh air.

What do you think Ryan Gosling would think of that? I think he would agree.

He seems the most comfortable in his own skin. I can imagine that he wouldn’t have any issues.

You do a chilling live cover of Radiohead’s “Creep.” What would it mean to you to collaborate with Thom Yorke on one of your or his songs? That would be a career-making, lifetime achievement. It would be insane for me.

What do you most want people to know about your full-length debut disc Water in a Whale? First of all, it’s a fuller summary of who I am as an artist. There’s more diversity and lighthearted moments, but it’s all pretty emotional. I think that it’s going to allow me to be an artist that is taken more seriously. I think it’s going to make a big impact on where I am in my career. Also, I get to have my first album officially out, I can say that. Q Johnson will be at Kilby Court in Salt Lake City on March 28 with Wakey Wakey.

Tickets at kilbycourt.com.

INTERVIEW | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | 37

We will see an end to marriage discrimination in Utah.

But we need your help.

The team that convinced District Judge Robert Shelby to rule that Utah’s anti-gay marriage laws and Amendment 3 are unconstitutional are now taking the case to the Circuit Court of Appeals and potentially to the U.S. Supreme Court.

The state of Utah said they will spend $2 million to fight the appeal.

How much do you think it will cost our side?

Your $5, $10, $25 monthly contribution will help!

Please donate to Restore Our Humanity at restoreourhumanity.org This message brought to you by QSaltLake.

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38 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | ARTS

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

screen queen

By Chris Azzopardi

Lee Daniels’ The Butler When The Butler — excuse me, Lee Daniels’ The Butler — was released last year, it seemed Oscar bound. It had social issues. It had the “inspired by a true story” handle that makes the Academy wet. For heaven’s sake, it had The Oprah. No matter, the all-star orgy/civil-rights caper was shut out, but don’t be too surprised.

Daniels’ film about Cecil Gaines (Forest Whitaker), a White House butler trying to do the best he can for his family (including Oprah as his wife), is highly watchable, even riveting and risk-taking at times, but its showy stunt casting (that’s Mariah Carey going diva-less as a cotton-picking field slave), clunky dialogue and just plain hamminess get in the way of the storytelling.

Oprah, who you’d think would be distractingly Oprah, is actually quite amazing. And that inspiringbut-campy end? I cried when I should’ve laughed. Special features include a doc covering the film’s historical relevance, deleted scenes and a brief look at the real freedom riders.

Prisoners Check your Xanax supply before this chilling and tensely searing story of child abduction gets your blood boiling. It’s a rough watch from all sides: the parents agonizing over their lost girls who mysteriously vanish on Thanksgiving Day, and the suspect they torture to find them. In a powerful, award-caliber role, Hugh Jackman is the protective patriarch (newly out lesbian actress Maria

Bello plays his grieving wife) who will stop at nothing to save his daughter, even if it means getting in the way of Detective Loki’s (Jake Gyllenhaal) investigation. Superbly acted (Viola Davis, Terrence Howard, Paul Dano and Melissa Leo round out a terrific cast) and expertly plotted, the macabre, moral-challenging Prisoners keeps you guessing all the way through its unnerving finish. With just two short behind-the-scenes featurettes, only the extras are a letdown.

Don Jon A movie in which a bare-chested Joseph Gordon-Levitt watches porn and spanks his monkey is already high on the Things To See list, but it just so happens that the directorial debut from the actor, varietyshow creator and just cool-asshit guy is an admirable comedic commentary on how media alters our expectations and ignites Scarlett Johansson fantasies. Johansson plays Barbara, the girl eager to ride off with her prince charming. She has balls, and so does Don Jon — the problem is he can’t stop playing with his. Levitt’s dramedy, also featuring the master-class acting of Julianne Moore, is an entertaining, sexy and stylized exploration of gender roles, unrealistic wants and JGL’s beefed-up body. The extras aren’t as generous — what, no director commentary? — but all that semi-nakedness should satisfy you.

Fruitvale Station A gut-punch of a movie, Fruitvale Station is even more tragic and upsetting and emotional because it actually happened. It’s the story of 22-year-old Oscar Grant (an electrifying Michael B. Jordan), a just-released-inmate who starts getting his life together — and being the father, son and boyfriend

he wasn’t in prison — when a New Year’s night out ends in his death after a cop turns a gun on him. Was it an issue of race?

Was this another Trayvon?

The intent of director Ryan Coogler, who focuses on capturing the people and events of Oscar’s last day (his mother is played by acting powerhouse Octavia Spencer), isn’t to place blame or even to blast the officer who was clearly in the wrong for pulling the trigger — it’s to honor a life cut way too short. The cast and filmmakers sit down for a post-screening discussion during one of two bonus features.

Also Out Mary Poppins: 50th Anniversary Edition Winner of five Academy Awards and revered for the casting of Julie Andrews in the titular role, Disney’s classic about a magic nanny and the kids she grows to love (and who grow to love her) is deemed a national treasure — but it’s really not as good as you remember it. Sure, there’s the irresistibility of those sunny song-and-dance numbers (“A Spoonful of Sugar” will still cast a big smile across your face) — and Andrews and Dick Van Dyke, her playful pal, are pretty much magical themselves — and then other stuff happens. Boring stuff. And for two-and-a-half hours.

A spoonful of sugar? How about three cups of coffee to go with it?

Still, its 50th anniversary Blu-ray debut dazzles with a big spread of special features: an Andrews/Van Dyke commentary, a page-to-stage doc, music and more.

One Direction: This Is Us One Direction wants you to know that, despite how rich and famous they are, they still have moms and dads — and they haven’t forgotten about the famine in Africa. This Is Us is clearly made for fans eager to watch this boy band pitch a (real)

tent in the woods, learn to drink miso soup and tear it up on stage.

And they obviously know how to work their girl/gay fans into a frenzy. But while their ear candy is pretty tasty, maybe there should’ve been a story — their “struggle with fame” doesn’t count — to go with all that music. Extras include a backstage peek, music videos and more of Harry and Liam fishing — see, just your average boys with a lot of money. And Africa. They love Africa.

The Sound of Music Live!

After The Sound of Music Live! made its TV premiere in December, star Carrie Underwood told haters they needed to find Jesus. But Carrie, doomed even before stepping into Julie Andrews’ Maria von Trapp shoes, could’ve used some divine intervention herself. Or, at the very least, an acting coach. Underwood nails the singing, but the emotion?

The passion? The joy? You’d find more of it staring at a piece of wood for a couple of hours. Thank god, then, for the show-stealing Audra McDonald. As for the rest of this hot mess? Don’t be surprised if Jesus is shaking his head and pouring another drink, too. If you make it to the extras, there’s a behindthe-scenes feature.

We’re the Millers Fake family is as awkward and funny and dysfunctional as the real thing — or at least it is in We’re the Millers, the movie starring Jennifer Aniston as a stripper.

The actress gets down to her sexy undergarments as Rose, a woman roped into her drug lord neighbor David’s scheme to smuggle marijuana from Mexico to clear his debt. So David, Rose and two youngsters — their “kids” (Emma Roberts and Will Poulter) — pile into a van and pretend to be the happiest family you’ve met since the Bradys. It’s a laughable premise with almost enough pseudo gayness, fake-family sexy time, TLC sing-alongs and blow-job bribery to keep it interesting. A gag reel, extended scenes and “Stories from the Road” are also included.

Chris Azzopardi is at chris-azzopardi.com.

ARTS | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | 39

march, 2014 | issue 229 | gaysaltlake.com

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40 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | ARTS

Love Wars

by Tami Porter-Jones

Pat Benatar said, “Love is a battlefield.”

And I’m thinking she was talking about us, The LGBT soldiers and generals, Our wars fought in close-minded families, In homelessness and suicides, Our victories found in courtrooms, Famous battles named proposition 8, DOMA, Don’t ask, Don’t tell, Amendment 3.

We have mobilized armies of activists, Bled money and time on this battleground, Our rainbow flag snapping in the wind As we pierce the ground of inequality To stake claim on our victory.

These times belong to us.

We have built this revolution on the back Of decades of sacrifice, The drumbeat of our hailing anthem Is the sound of closet doors being ripped from hinges.

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

We have lined up behind one another, Battalions of the fierce and the proud.

We have rallied and rioted.

Petitioned and prayed.

Refused to be quieted.

At the end of a war, there are losers, But if you’re stripping rights from good people, You were a loser before you lost.

We don’t need you to approve of who we are.

We just need you to get out of the way.

We deserve better than tolerance, Better than acceptance.

We are worthy of celebration.

So let’s exchange rings.

Let’s toast even the small wins.

Let’s keep fighting for our futures, Fighting for our brothers and sisters And all the genders in-between In countries that are losing this war.

They say history is written by the victors, And I have my pen at the ready, I have my heart on this battlefield.

This chapter shall be written by us.

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Facebook offers expanded options for gender Facebook has unveiled new options for the gender field in order to more accurately reflect a user’s identity.

The 50 genders chosen by Facebook are: Agender Androgyne Androgynous Bigender Cis Cis Female Cis Male Cis Man Cis Woman Cisgender Cisgender Female Cisgender Male Cisgender Man Cisgender Woman Female to Male FTM Gender Fluid Gender Nonconforming Gender Questioning Gender Variant Genderqueer Intersex Male to Female MTF Neither Neutrois Non-binary Other Pangender Trans Trans Female Trans Male Trans Man Trans Person Trans*Female Trans*Male Trans*Man Trans*Person Trans*Woman Transexual Transexual Female Transexual Male Transexual Man Transexual Person Transexual Woman Transgender Female Transgender Person Transmasculine Two-spirit

ARTS | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | 41

march, 2014 | issue 229 | gaysaltlake.com

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42 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | A&E

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

Against Me!, Toni Braxton and Babyface

hear me out

By Chris Azzopardi

Against Me!, Transgender Dysphoria Blues

The remarkable thing about Transgender Dysphoria Blues — besides, of course, it being an emancipating declaration of independence — is that it even exists. Can you imagine, in the late ’90s when this punkrock quartet from Florida first rocked its way to notoriety, something as transgenderfocused as this? Against Me!’s sixth release is a deeply personal MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014

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MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014

outpouring as necessary — both to now-frontwoman Laura Jane Grace and the band’s fans — as it is empowering. An open diary exploring internal and external struggles with identity — but also alienation, acceptance and love, fear and loss — the complex, often-tremendous Transgender Dysphoria Blues triumphs at acknowledging one’s differences and the power that can be had when we embrace them. “We can’t choose how we’re made,” Grace insists on the title track, venting frustrations over the gritty track — and then recognizing the one person who truly gets her. “True Trans Soul Rebel” thrashes like some of the best radio-made ’90s rock, but beneath the hardguitar guise is an emotional undercurrent so heartfelt and raw — especially the verse sug-

MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014

MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014

MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014 2014 MAY MAY 2014

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gesting suicide — that Grace’s pain becomes ours. “Dead Friend” is brutally honest, and “Drinking with the Jocks” fights with its claws out. And if you’ve ever wanted to piss on the house of a person you hate, “Black Me Out” is your song. But it’s the poignancy of “Two Coffins,” a bittersweet break from the pummeling punk sounds, that really floored me. The gratitude it expresses, while looking to the end of everything, still has me trying to pick myself up off the ground.

Grade: B+

Toni Braxton and Babyface, Love, Marriage & Divorce

In the ’90s, Toni Braxton broke more hearts than she un-broke, and the world was OK with that. The world was so OK with that, Braxton racked up No. 1s, snatched a few Grammys and joined the pantheon of premier female powerhouses — Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion — who could sing a song like a hose puts out a blazing fire.

Braxton still sounds every bit as pillow-soft demure and sultry low on Love, Marriage & Divorce, her first release since 2010’s Pulse, as she did then. And with Babyface as her co-pilot — the producer lured the singer back to music after she almost gave it up entirely — the two recapture the greatness of an enduring, two-decade-plus partnership, once again shaping those sophisticated love songs that speak to the heart and, yeah, sometimes break it. Focusing on relationship ups and downs, the aptly titled “Roller Coaster” has a hooky groove that mitigates

its cliche amusement-park metaphor. The song sets the tone for this classy — and sometimes dull — R&B throwback, a therapy session encompassing all the feels of that crazy thing called love: the regretful “Hurt You,” a harmonious mid-tempo about infidelity; the vengeful “I Wish” set to an ironic piano solo; and the kinky “Sweat,” a standout so good you’ll pick a fight just to have makeup sex.

Grade: B-

Also Out Broken Bells, After the Disco

You know that period postclubbing when the lights go out and nothing else matters because you’re too drunk to care?

This is your soundtrack to that night. Set to a dreamy ambiance of shimmer, and inspired by late ’70s Bee Gees, After the Disco is the second LP from the pairing of artist-producer Brian Burton (aka Danger Mouse) and The Shins frontman James Mercer.

Oftentimes their indie-pop gets swallowed in the morning sun — the melodies just aren’t all that ear-grabby — but occasionally, like on the entrancing synth jam “Perfect World,” it’ll intoxicate you like a night of heavy drinking.

Cibo Matto, Hotel Valentine

Cibo Matto’s first all-original release since their disbanding in 2001 involves a “love story and a group of ghosts in a hotel.” And if you think that sounds weird, hear the music’s playful wonkiness. The New York duo of Miho Hatori and Yuka C. Honda, long known for their bizarre observations on everything (especially food), queer up Hotel Valentine with the most schizo of sonic hybrids: disco meets No Doubt meets speakeasy lounge music on “10th Floor Ghost Girl,” and “Housekeeping” whomps with urban swag and B-52s kitsch.

Who needs marijuana? Here’s your trippy high.

Chris Azzopardi is the editor of Q Syndicate, the international LGBT wire service. Reach him via his website at www. chris-azzopardi.com.

the annual Q saltlake fabby award ballot

Vote for Utah’s most fabulous People, Places and Things!

Fill out at least 10 categories of the most fabulous local ­restaurants, bars, services and others to qualify your ballot.

Most Fabulous Shopping

Fabulous People

Best Local Shop for Budget Fashion

Best Leader of a Queer Organization

����������������������������������������� Best Local Shop for High-End Fashion

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����������������������������������������� Best Local Shop for Shoes ����������������������������������������� Best Local Shop for Drag Attire

Best Local Politician ����������������������������������������� Best Local Actor or Actress �����������������������������������������

Most Fabulous Restaurants

Most Fabulous Bars

Lightest on Your Wallet

Best Gay Bar ����������������������������������������� Best Straight Bar

����������������������������������������� Best Consignment Store for Furniture/ Home Décor

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����������������������������������������� Best After-Hours Cravings

����������������������������������������� Best Karaoke

����������������������������������������� Best Underwear Selection

�����������������������������������������

����������������������������������������� Best Place to Catch the Game

����������������������������������������� Best Antique Store

����������������������������������������� Best Dance Club

����������������������������������������� Best Flower Shop

����������������������������������������� Best Afternoon Crowd

����������������������������������������� Best Local Jewelry Store

����������������������������������������� Best Local Restaurant for Breakfast ����������������������������������������� Best PETA-Approved ����������������������������������������� Best Contemporary Restaurant ����������������������������������������� Best in Park City ����������������������������������������� Best in Ogden ����������������������������������������� Best Asian Cuisine

����������������������������������������� Best Local Book Store

����������������������������������������� Best Micro-Brewery ����������������������������������������� Best Friday Night ����������������������������������������� Best Saturday Night

����������������������������������������� Best Thai Cuisine

����������������������������������������� Best Sunday Night

����������������������������������������� Best South of the Border Cuisine

����������������������������������������� Cheapest Drinks

����������������������������������������� Best Mediterranean Cuisine

����������������������������������������� Best Martini

����������������������������������������� Best Sushi ����������������������������������������� Best Steak House

����������������������������������������� Best Weekly Bar Event ����������������������������������������� Best Monthly Bar Event �����������������������������������������

����������������������������������������� Best Local Coffee House ����������������������������������������� Best Wine and Beer Selection �����������������������������������������

Most Fabulous Food Best Burger

Most Fabulous Art Best Local Theatre Company ����������������������������������������� Best Art Gallery or Museum ����������������������������������������� Best Local Visual Artist ����������������������������������������� Best Local Play or Musical of 2011

����������������������������������������� Best Sandwich

����������������������������������������� Best Local Dance Company

����������������������������������������� Best Pizza

����������������������������������������� Best Local Musician/Band

����������������������������������������� Best Pastries ����������������������������������������� Best Seafood Selection ����������������������������������������� Best Salads ����������������������������������������� Best Sushi ����������������������������������������� Best Sunday Brunch �����������������������������������������

����������������������������������������� Best Gift Store ����������������������������������������� Best Adult Toy Store �����������������������������������������

Best Bartender

Best Local DJ

Fabulous Groups Best Social Group ����������������������������������������� Best Political Group ����������������������������������������� Best Health/Resources Group ����������������������������������������� Best Religious Organization ����������������������������������������� Best Sports Organization

Most Fabulous Services Best Gym ����������������������������������������� Best Ski Resort ����������������������������������������� Best Hair Salon ����������������������������������������� Best to get Waxed ����������������������������������������� Best Tattoo/Piercing Parlor ����������������������������������������� Best Counseling Service

�����������������������������������������

Q Fabulous Best QSaltLake Columnist ����������������������������������������� Best QSaltLake Story of the Year ����������������������������������������� Best QSaltLake Event of 2012 ����������������������������������������� Best Improvement QSaltLake Could Make

����������������������������������������� Best Pet Groomer

�����������������������������������������

����������������������������������������� Best Real Estate Agent

Other

����������������������������������������� Best Massage ����������������������������������������� Best Attorney ����������������������������������������� Best CHIROPRACTOR ����������������������������������������� Best Photographer/Studio

Best Radio Station ����������������������������������������� Best Local Radio Personality ����������������������������������������� Best Television News ����������������������������������������� Best TV News Reporter

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DID YOU VOTE FOR AT LEAST 10? ONE VOTE PER PERSON. FLOODING IS EASY TO SEE, SO DON’T DO IT AS IT WILL DISQUALIFY WHO YOU ARE VOTING FOR. Name__________________________________________________________________________________ EMAIL ADDRESS_________________________________________________________________________ PHONE_________________________________________________________________________________ MAIL TO: OR EMAIL TO: FABBYS fabbys@qsaltlake.com QSALTLAKE 244 REED AVE SALT LAKE CITY UT 84106

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44 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | FOOD&DRINK

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gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

Bridging the Whole Foods gap

by David White

“Although

modern consumers are far more concerned about the origins of their food than they once were, keenly eyeing the source of that organic spinach, their concern goes out the window when it comes to wine.”

These words appear in a discussion about affordability in The New California Wine, the just-released book from San Francisco Chronicle wine editor Jon Bonné. It’s what he calls the Whole Foods gap.

As he explains, “most consumers, even if they are the type to shop at that particular upscale grocery store and obsess about the origins of their food, simply couldn’t care less about where their wine comes from or how it was farmed.”

The numbers back this up.

Consider organic food sales. They’re soaring. In 2012, according to government data, sales of organic food increased 7.4 percent over the previous year — about double the growth rate for food overall.

Since 1990, the amount of U.S. farmland dedicated to organic crops and livestock has increased fourfold.

Organic meat and produce often cost twice as much as their conventional counterparts. But Americans are beginning to take an interest in where their food comes from. So they’re moving away from industrialized calories and toward production that eschews pesticides and values sustainability, even if it means paying more.

With wine, however, Americans still drink cheap, without giving much thought to sourcing or production. The average bottle of wine in the United States sells for just $6.22. Nine in ten bottles sold cost less than $12.

Look at Whole Foods (when shopping outside Utah, unfortunately). While shopping for free-range chicken, cage-free eggs, and artisanal cheese, consumers are presented with stacks of wine from Three Wishes. Retailing for $3, it’s produced for Whole Foods by the Wine Group, the nation’s second-largest wine company.

Or consider Trader Joe’s. Just feet from where consumers pick up local fruit sits a wall of wine from Charles Shaw. Better known as “Two Buck Chuck,” the wine is produced by Bronco, the nation’s fifthlargest wine company.

Wines like these benefit from economies of scale, of course. But they also rely on a host of winemaking tricks.

That oaky aroma? It typically isn’t from barrels, but rather from oak chips and sawdust dumped into the wine. The juiciness is often the result of acid additions.

The weight and texture of inexpensive wine could be from concentrates engineered to fill gaps. It’s better wine through chemistry.

The grapes for these wines are generally grown in California’s vast Central Valley, where farmers rely on constant irrigation and regular use of chemicals to keep output high. With California experiencing one of its worst droughts in history, the sustainability of these methods is worth scrutiny.

This isn’t to say that inexpensive wines are inevitably bad. There are certainly satisfactory options available for less than $10. But spending so little almost guarantees you’ll be drinking industrial wine.

Bonné and I recently chatted about this dilemma.

“I don’t think that we should be confronted with the option of either beautifully farmed but very expensive grapes on relatively expensive land, or somewhat chemically farmed grapes in industrial vineyards, as our only two options,” he contended. “I think there has to be some middle ground in which you can farm grapes virtuously for a table wine.”

He’s right. And even in California, it’s possible to find honest wine.

One label Bonné recommends is Broadside, a value-priced side project from two admired up-and-coming vintners. Another is Foxglove, a value-priced offering from the brothers behind Varner and Neely, two highly acclaimed labels. He also suggests Lioco Wines. Lioco’s “Indica,” a red blend based on old-vine Carignane, is a delightful wine that’s reminiscent of both Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhone.

Bonné expects more value-priced offerings in the years ahead. “There is absolutely a mandate for newer winemakers in California to take their talent and apply it to less expensive wine,” he insisted.

And he’s optimistic about the future.

“People who are willing to pay a premium for whatever it is — say tomato sauce made by a small company rather than Ragu — are going to need to extend those values into wine.”

In time, they will. Q David White is the founder and editor of Terroirist.com, which was named “Best Overall Wine Blog” at the 2013 Wine Blog Awards. His columns are housed at Grape Collective.

FOOD&DRINK | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | 45

march, 2014 | issue 229 | gaysaltlake.com

Wasatch Brewery launches Live and Let Live blond pale ale In response to the recent developments in Utah regarding same-sex marriage, Utah’s first craft brewers, Wasatch Brewery released a new beer called “Live and Let Live.” By pairing two types of the same ingredients, Wasatch created a unique, but very natural beer designed to appeal to both sexes.

“Live and Let Live is a blonde pale ale built with two beautiful malts and two wonderful hops, all fermented with a pair of yeasts,” says Wasatch brewer Dan Burick.

“This pairing of similar ingredients is a first for Utah and we think its way overdue.”

The beer is 4 percent alcohol by volume and is sold on draft in Utah, launched on Valentine’s Day. “Our new beer has an attitude and we believe Live and Let Live will make life better for a lot of people in Utah” says Wasatch founder Greg Schirf. “Some of our political leaders would benefit from a hearty serving of Live and Let Live.”

Schirf points out that his brewery has

been a practitioner of civil unions for years. “In 2000, we entered into a partnership with another brewery much like ours,” he says with a smile, referencing a partnership with Squatters Craft Beers.

“Our Utah Brewers Cooperative is still happily ‘married’ today.”

According to Burick, market research has shown that Live and Let Lives’ delicious taste, easy quaff-ability and same ingredient pairings will be enthusiastically received by many of Utah’s non-discriminating beer drinkers.

“We realize this beer is not for everyone, and we will not force it on those who prefer more traditional brew styles.” he said. “These pairings are not the norm in Utah right now and we expect resistance from many. However, we are confident that in the near future Utah will look back and wonder why they didn’t embrace and celebrate Live and Let Lives’ natural combinations. They will also realize that Live and Let Live is not a threat to traditional beers.”

Schirf hopes the beer sends a message beyond Utah. He noted that he was going to send some of his Live and Let Live beer to Sochi. “I am thinking Vladimir Putin needs to lay off the vodka and drink about a case of this stuff,” he joked with his impish grin. “Live and Let Live may be hard to swallow for the majority of people in Utah right now,” Schirf concluded, “but we think it’s a step forward.” Q

46 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | PETS

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

Pet Month of the

Can we crash at your place?

Try fostering!

Please email utahfoster@bestfriends.org or call 801-574-2417 bestfriends.org/utah

Duke 3 year old neutered male pit bull terrier mix “This fun-loving guy doesn’t let that slow him down at all, he spends all his time running around and wagging his tail! Duke is his name and he absolutely loves to be around people. He learned how to “sit” “shake” and “lay-down” all while in the past month, he is super smart. He loves to go for car rides and will sit properly in the back seat without problems just gazing out the window. He seems to be housebroken and seems very curious about meeting dogs.

With his injuries, Duke hasn’t been able to live with other animals directly but we could introduce any potential canine family members before he goes into his forever home. Duke would love a home where he

could be the center of attention and show you all of his tricks, sometimes he catches treats out of the air! What a goofy guy!” Q Contact Best Friends adoption center specialists at 801-574-2440 or email utahadoptions@bestfriends.org

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48 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | COMICS

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

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:

Staight Line

NO BIBLE HEN

___ _______

cryptogram A cryptogram is a puzzle where one letter in the puzzle is substituted with another. For example: ECOLVGNCYXW YCR EQYIIRZNBZN YZU

GIRLFIEND by Michaelle Gruben

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: D=M

Theme: Harvey Fierstein quote:

Blhxh’z dtxh blyk hktsgl zkto yb de njyph bt ltjq blh Tjednupz ykq U qtk’b yxxhzb ets vtx hkmteukg zhr. _____ ’ _ ____ ____ ______ ____ __ __ _____ __ ____ ___ ________ ___ _ ___ ’ _ ______ ___ ___ ________ ___ .

PUZZLE ANSWERS ON PAGE 54

march, 2014 | issue 229 | gaysaltlake.com

COMICS | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | 49

50 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | Horoscopes

q scopes

By Sam Kelley-Mills

ARIES March 20–April 19 A provocative offer could send you into a whirlwind. A decision doesn’t need to be made, but a compelling notion to act will lead to a deliberate consequence.

Don’t be distracted by social pressures when dealing with financial matters. Mix some spice into your love life.

TAURUS Apr 20–May 20 A challenge will leave you stronger than before. The ability to work through an intricate process will leave you amazed by your potential. A large pay off can be the results of wise savings. Don’t spend all resources on a single endeavor. Embrace the variety in life.

GEMINI May 21–June 20 Your ability to shine in every situation may open some competitive opportunities this month. It’s your call whether to take up the challenges. Your instincts will come in handy during a romantic situation. There is never a bad time for adventure with a loved one.

CANCER June 21–July 22 An energetic streak will surge in matters of career and finance. The solution to a longpestering problem will present itself in a most unusual way. Keep your eyes open and avoid distractions.

Some people in your life don’t put your interests first. Avoid them.

LEO July 23–August 22 Drive home a point you are passionate about to those who are willing to listen. Avoid showing aggression and put your emphasis on caring. You have much to offer so don’t let an opposing view

lead you into a wild debate. Stay firm on issues of a personal nature.

VIRGO August 23–Sep. 22 Falling into old methods will be a temptation this month.

The past can provide inspiration, but now is the time to look forward.

Learning new tricks will lead to new pleasures. Family matters may provide some distractions. Don’t lose focus and keep an open mind.

LIBRA Sept 23–October 22 Creative juices flow, inspired by an undeniable sense of peace and tranquility. Friend or family may demand justification for your carefree attitude. Don’t overfill the calendar with meaningless distractions and make time for quality activities. This is your time.

SCORPIO Oct. 23–Nov. 21 Fighting the urge to splurge will be a prominent instinct.

There is room for enjoyment but keep the focus on responsibilities.

A relative or loved one seeks advice.

Approach this opportunity with a touch of humor and the lessons will prevail. Teaching comes naturally.

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014 Each Sudoku puzzle has a unique solution which can be reached logically without guessing. Enter digits 1 through 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit, as must each column and each 3x3 square. Qdoku is actually five separate, but connected, Sudoku puzzles.

Q doku

Level: Medium Medium

8 2 3 4 5 1 3 2 6 5

9 4 7 8 8

5

6 1

6

9

1 5 4 8

7 8 3 9 6 7 1 3 2 3 4 6 1 6 5 2 5 8 9 2 6 5 7 3 5 4 3 9 2 7 5 4 6 7 6 4 2 1 2 7 5 8 3

SAGITTARIUS Nov. 22– December 20.

To find the best solution to a problem, understanding is key. Get to know the goal of a project and the rewards will be abundant. To get the job done, a slow and steady pace will lead to success. A work associate or boss will value your contributions.

AQUARIUS Jan. 20–Feb. 18 A defining quality will be reshaped if you re-examine your priorities. Big projects often provide enjoyment, but now is a good time to take it easy. Pamper yourself and let worries roll off your back. A good friend wants to spend more time with you. Have fun.

CAPRICORN Dec 21–Jan 19 Whatever is bothering you may seem insignificant after some reflection. A moment of anger may leave you speechless.

Others notice your silence and show concern. Let friendly encouragement uplift you. A big surprise is in store regarding a relationship matter.

PISCES Feb 19–Mar 19 A winning streak may be in store this month, but don’t gamble more than you can afford to lose. A domestic situation becomes harmonious. Join others to find creative solutions and a deeper connection can be made. Enlighten yourself in matters of desire. Q

5 6 7 3

1 2 3 9 5 8 4 3 6

3 4 5 1 3 9 8 8 6 9 7 9 4 4 2 3 5 2 8 5 9 4 8 2 3 6 7 4 9 8 7 4 6 7 5 5 4 9 1 9 2 3 3 2 5 6

8

5 5 4 3

1

4

4 5 9

CROSSWORD | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | 51

march, 2014 | issue 229

FOR PEOPLE TO COME IN AND HAVE A BITE TO EAT. COFFEE BURGERS SANDWICHES SOUPS SALADS APPETIZERS BREAKFAST BRUNCH POOL TABLE VIDEO GAMES OPEN Mon-Thur 8a–6p Friday 7a-3p AND After Bar Closing Fridays and Saturdays

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40 Wishful words 44 Didn’t fast 45 End of the question Across 50 Way out 1 You can get a bang 51 AnaÔs the diarist out of its head 52 Amy chaser Ben 5 “Stupid me!”

53 Ziegfeld, familiarly 9 Tending to stick in 54 Hollywood canine one’s proboscis 56 You might see a polar bear there 13 Fruit ___ (gay 57 Feels poorly district) 14 He took on a pair of 58 Answer to the question bears 61 Too-too 15 Golden Rule word 62 Navratilova’s winter 16 Start of a question home from Leno’s “Jay63 Op-ed offering walking” 64 Out 19 Comics outburst 20 Where Priscilla is Down queen 1 Story of Greeks that 21 Vintage vehicle busted some Trojans 22 Hard to penetrate 2 Give up 24 Disney’s middle 3 Present adornment name 4 Dashboard inits.

26 More of the ques5 ___ Upon a Mattress tion 6 Package appreciation 31 JFK info cries 32 Sissy 7 How quickly one 33 Son of Aga Khan comes 34 McKellen movie 8 Restaurateur Toots Gods and ___ 9 Woman who doesn’t 37 Hannah of Steel date men Magnolias 10 Facing peers

11 Like some dirty windshields 12 Toys that do tricks 17 Fateful day 18 Lone Star coll.

23 In bad shape 25 Rover’s restraint 27 A League of Their ___ 28 Monnier’s pair, on Lesbos 29 Hrs. in P-town and Key West 30 NNW’s opposite 35 Bard Broumas 36 Ilsa’s love 37 TV role for Gillian 38 Up for debate 39 Video store transactions 41 Workplaces 42 Umpire Dave 43 Boy who shoots off arrows 46 Big fight 47 Scat queen 48 Province of Spain 49 Top of the world 55 Hill builders 57 Snakes in the grass 59 Title for a brother 60 Life-beach connection ANSWERS ON PAGE 54

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52 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | ADVICE

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

mr. manners

Good technique

by Brock Kannan

I tend to

savor the moments when you find yourself staring at someone because, deep in your mind, you know the person; yet, you’re struggling to place the connection. Search-

ing for the smallest recollection, you eventually see one or two things that solidify the acquaintance. Some would say there are certain things — the walk, or an accent — but it’s always something.

I recently had this experience, seeing someone I had met from college, and when I inquired as to how they knew me, the response was simply, “You always have good technique.”

Having spent time in the theater I learned that technique, or how you do something, defines you. In the corporate world, we describe how one defines himself as “branding.” Not the activity associated with cowboys, and we can all appreciate a good-looking man in chaps, but this is more along the lines of that “thing” that defines you. I know that RuPaul has lectured that, “It is none of your business what others think about you,” however, a check-in is never bad.

Going back to “good technique,” I asked my college acquaintance to define that sentiment. He said, “I was unapologetic in my approach to life, always doing things well.”

Having majored in Musical Theater, the artist in me was beaming. Technique is the mark as an artist, to be known for doing something well is what artists strive to do.

But as I pondered upon this, I began to wonder what other aspects of my life would benefit from good technique?

Now, it’s not my place to tell you what does or does not define you — or how you should be defined — but what I want to stress is that how you do things tend to have a lasting effect. Are you seen as someone who people are eager to have around or do you constantly get forgotten when it comes to invitations? Are you seen as someone who does great things, or are you just lazily dancing through life?

I have learned that all decisions are be grouped into categories of “right” or “wrong,” but rather, you have to decide if you can live with the consequences. Perhaps it’s time to do a personal check-in and see how you’re being perceived. One man’s virtue can be another man’s vice, but one thing is for certain: No matter what you’re doing, make sure you have good technique.

For when you do something well, regardless of the task, you’ll be noticed. And who doesn’t yearn for 15 minutes of fame; even if it’s just in passing. Q Have a question for Mr. Manners?

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54 | QSALTLAKE MAGAZINE | final word

gaysaltlake.com | issue 229 | march, 2014

the perils of petunia pap smear

The tale of the burning ring of fire

by Petunia Pap Smear

The road

to finding the perfect cock ring is fraught with danger and excitement.

Many, many eons ago, at about the same time that the Indian subcontinent “mounted” Asia, thus thrusting up the 29,000-foot planetary boner of all boners, Mount Everest, (this exquisite imagery is enough to make any size queen faint with giddiness and envy, and don’t you just love being able to call it “an erection of galactic proportions?”) I was a 32-year-old, respectable, Word of Wisdomobserving, returned missionary virgin, fresh from the potato fields in Idaho, slowly poking his head out of the repressive closet door. And voilà, Petunia was born.

At first I was very timid and shy, and inched out of the door at a glacial pace. I was a brand new princess in training, hadn’t even received my first pair of high heels, and experiencing my gay adolescence while tentatively exploring the dark aisles in the closed and deserted “candy store” of the forbidden magical mysteries of gay sex. After the very first taste, all things sexual were new and exciting and the doors on the proverbial closet were blown off of the hinges.

puzzle solutions

The “candy store” was open and having a 90 percent off sale. Emotionally, I was suddenly 16 years old again, and I was hell-bent on experiencing everything that I thought I may have missed during my “straight adolescence.”

As a new inductee into the princess training program, I felt it my deep personal responsibility to explore the world of gay sex with gusto; to use all my time and talents to honorably earn the Slut Merit Badge; to give the word “whore” a more prominent and regal position in the English language; to plunge deep into dark places where no man has gone before; and to personally displace Aphrodite as the Goddess of Love. The whole world became awash in sex. Inside every bathroom stall door was either Sen. Larry Craig, or the potential love of a lifetime (or at least the next 30 minutes). Behind every bush and tree stalked the prey “that dare not speak its name,” or George Michael.

It was during these giddy times of exploration and discovery that I first encountered the “You must be 18 years of age to enter” section of the Mischievous Pleasures gift shop. The first thing to catch my eye was

Cryptogram: There’s more than enough snow at my place to hold the Olympics and I don’t arrest you for enjoying sex 9 7 8 6 3 2 4 5 1

4 1 5 8 7 9 6 2 3

2 3 6 5 1 4 7 9 8

2 5 1 3 6 8 7 9 4

7 4 6 9 2 1 8 3 5

8 3 9 4 7 5 6 1 2

8 6 7 1 4 5 2 3 9 1 6 3 7 9 2 4 5 8

5 9 3 2 6 8 1 7 4 5 7 4 8 3 6 1 2 9

Anagram: BOB HENLINE

the cock ring display. During my pursuit of the Slut Merit Badge, I had encountered several strapping young men wearing this intriguing jewelry, and I had become, shall we say, intensely curious. Of course, there is no size chart to help a novice princess in making such a major purchasing decision, and I was too embarrassed to actually ask a question of the sales clerk.

So I just chose a middle-size, stainless steel ring, threw the money quickly on the counter and departed before having to engage anyone in conversation. I rushed home clutching the little black plastic bag, lest I lose my first purchase of Royal Jewelry.

I had a date that night with a really hot stud, and was so excited to wear my new ring.

Let me just share that I was frustrated because the ring didn’t come with instructions as to how to put it on. After several excruciating experiments of trying to mash the “boys” through after the shaft, I discovered that one must gently massage the “boys” through the ring first, then pull the flaccid shaft through, like threading a needle.

I ask you, would it be too much for the manufacturers to provide such basic information? Then it was off to my date.

As per my nefarious plan, we ended up back at my place in bed and I was excited to see how the ring would affect the whole lovemaking experience.

The “hunka hunka manly love” began to pay attention to my “royal jewels,” and nature’s Godgiven “personal inflatable toy” rose to the occasion. But pain and horror quickly overcame my excitement, as it became

evident that the cock ring was too small to accommodate the erection. Since it was made of unrelenting steel, there was no possibility for stretching it out.

Never before had I experienced such pain; even the slightest touch was excruciating.

“My boys” were slowly being castrated.

Meanwhile, Mr. Hunk was intent on giving “my boys” his undivided attention. Normally, this attention is what a queen prays for. I tried to redirect his attentions to kissing, to alleviate the immediate pain and possibly give the erection time to dissipate. But his groping hands kept finding their mark. Finally about to pass out, in desperation I took charge and savagely attacked his jewels with all the effort I could muster in order to distract him. Thankfully, he became putty in my hands and I was able to give my jewels much needed time to deflate.

I emerged from this experience a sadder but wiser princess, having learned that the moral of this story is to buy an adjustable cock ring until you know what you are doing.

Like always, these events leave us with many eternal questions: 1. Will Jeff Stryker start calling his ample appendage “an erection of galactic proportions?”

2. Could Petunia Pap-Smear as the Goddess of Sex tempt Jason and the Argonauts?

3. Do you think the cock ring was the One Ring of Power from Lord of the Rings?

4. Would it be possible to let you try on the cock ring in the store?

5. If I had been castrated, would I be able to sing soprano?

6. Was it just my imagination, or did I hear Johnny Cash singing “The Burning Ring of Fire”?

These and other important questions to be answered in future chapters of The Perils of Petunia Pap-Smear. Q

1 2 4 7 9 3 8 6 5 9 2 8 5 1 4 3 7 6

4 8 2 1 5 3 9 6 7 8 5 2 3 4 1 9 2 7 5 8 6

3 9 5 6 4 7 2 8 1 4 3 6 7 5 9 4 8 6 3 1 2

6 1 7 2 8 9 5 4 3 7 1 9 6 8 2 3 5 1 9 4 7

6 3 8 2 4 1 5 9 7

4 5 2 6 9 7 1 3 8

7 1 9 3 8 5 2 6 4

3 1 2 6 5 9 8 7 4 1 6 3 9 2 5 1 4 8 7 6 3

4 5 7 3 2 8 1 9 6 5 2 8 4 7 3 9 6 2 5 1 8

8 6 9 7 1 4 3 2 5 9 7 4 8 1 6 3 7 5 4 9 2

2 4 1 6 8 3 9 7 5 9 4 1 2 3 6 7 5 8

7 8 4 2 5 9 1 3 6

6 9 7 5 2 1 3 8 4

3 5 8 7 9 4 6 2 1

5 7 4 1 6 3 2 8 9

6 2 8 5 4 7 9 3 1

7 3 5 8 9 1 6 4 2

5 3 9 8 1 6 2 4 7 1 9 3 4 8 2 5 6 7

1 6 2 4 3 7 8 5 9 2 8 6 9 7 5 4 1 3

march, 2014 | issue 229 | gaysaltlake.com

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