QView Mar 2009

. view Q northwest Spokane Edition

Monthly newsmagazine celebrating diversity and dances of the human spirit

March 2009

Law &Wine k.d. lang’s

got a soft spot for

Spokane

checking the

Cpulse haritable

“outing” myself as an

ally

SAN’s

Oscar Gala

tony

and our

Farr

Aging GLBT Community

The Future of Gay Media www.qviewnorthwest.com | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | March 2009 |

Qview

WAYNE BESEN LORNA DOONE BREWER NICOLE HENSLEY MARC MORRIS JOAN OPYR COKE ROTH BLAIR TELLERS DAVID R. WEISS CATHERINE D. WILLIS

northwest SPOKANE EDITION March 2009 Vol. 3 Issue 7

Monthly newsmagazine celebrating diversity and dances of the human spirit

Publisher MIKE SCHULTZ Advertising STEVEN SANFORD Layout MIKE SCHULTZ Chief Bottle Washer MIKE SCHULTZ

3 Checking The Charitable Pulse Of Our Local GLBT Non-Profit Orgs - Part 3 of 3 by Catherine D. Willis 4 Law & Wine: When You Get A Will Drafted, Say “Trust Me”, And Trustworthy Wines! by Coke Roth 6 k.d. lang’s Got A Soft Spot For Spokane By Joan Opyr

Front Cover Photograph NICOLE HENSLEY

Distributed free throughout the Pacific Inland Northwest and online at

www.qviewnorthwest.com

C O N T E N T S

Contributors

7 Tony Farr And Our Aging GLBT Community - Part 3 of 3 by Lorna Doone Brewer

Distribution STEVEN SANFORD

Website

9 ‘Outing’ Myself As An Ally By David R. Weiss

MIKE SCHULTZ Q View Northwest is published by Q View Media, LLC. 1506 W. Mission Ave Spokane, WA 99201 Phone: 509.570.8768 E-mail: mail@qviewnorthwest.com Website: www.qviewnorthwest.com

12 Giving Back At SAN’s Oscar Gala by Blair Tellers

All contents © 2009. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without written consent from the publisher. Neither Q View Media LLC nor Q View Northwest publication assumes responsibility for errors in content, photos, or advertisements. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher or advertisers.

21 Calendar

16 The Future Of Gay Media by Wayne Besen

22 Resource Directory

8836 Gage Boulevard, Suite 204-A Kennewick, WA 99336 Phone: 509.783.0220 # Fax: 509.783.0411 ROTHCOLEMAN.COM PLEASE CALL FOR A CONFIDENTIAL PHONE CONSULTATION

SOLID CONFIDENTIAL ADVICE TO THE GLBTQA COMMUNITY ON ESTATE PLANNING MATTERS

Wills - Trusts - Powers of Attorney Relationship/Domestic Partnership/Cohabitation Agreements Domestic Partnership Registration - Medicaid Qualification Advice Albert Coke Roth, III, Esquire/email: coke@rothcoleman.com

Timothy M. Coleman, Esquire/email: tim@rothcoleman.com

| March 2009 | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | www.qviewnorthwest.com

checking the

Cpulse haritable

of our local GLBT non-profit orgs

by Catherine D. Willis Part 3 of 3

“Organizations reach their goals by being narrowly focused on them, and by finding what they do best and doing it better than any other organization. Movements reach their goals by taking that behavior a step further – by connecting organized groups (each of which has already defined its unique goals and strengths) and creating a larger, stronger, louder whole. When are we in Spokane going to connect and support one another?” Connie Sagona

“I’ve concluded that the GLBT people of Spokane reflect the greater community. Spokane is a self-conscious, self-critical and self-indifferent kind of place, thinking that we’re not much compared to Seattle and almost any other city. Yet Spokane is gorgeous – with rivers and lakes and forests and mountains, five colleges, a magnificent medical hub for the area, recreation and beauty abounding – and it’s a place to be proud of, just like the gorgeous gay people who live here – full of beauty, talent, and gifts galore – if only they would stand up and be proud.” Helen Bonser

I

f the sky is falling, as columnist Wayne Besen suggested in these pages in January, Spokane’s GLBTQ nonprofit and community group leaders are not running for cover. Respondents to the 20-question survey I circulated several weeks ago expressed cautious optimism about their organizations’ capacity to survive this economically challenging time. Whether such confidence reflects actual conviction or a selfcomforting mind game of the “fake it ‘til you make it” variety, I cannot say. Only Jennifer Foster-Fausett, treasurer of the board, Odyssey Youth Center (OYC), veered toward Besen’s premise. The poor economy could put the center “at risk,” she acknowledged, “because it is

already difficult to fund.” Fundraising is problematic in the best of times. It’s no secret that many of our community’s nonprofits struggle annually to sustain themselves. The underlying cause isn’t managerial incompetence, as some unstudied observers might assume; it is rather the very nature of community-funded, missiondriven work. The folks at Spokane AIDS Network (SAN) defined the issue in three words that undoubtedly resonate among their nonprofit cohorts: “never enough money.”

Show Us the Money haritable foundations give C generously and dependably for one or several funding cycles.

Then they change priorities or expend their resources, setting previously favored nonprofits adrift and scrambling for replacement funds. Government grants are equally unpredictable. Prudent nonprofits prepare for such fluctuations. “SAN is always adjusting its budget.” Each of the five organizations that provided survey responses has made some accommodation to the darkening economic climate. The leaders of Emmanuel Metropolitan Community Church (EMCC) pared expenses for the year, “conservatively estimating giving and donations for 2009.” They have not reduced staff hours. Staffing at Pride Foundation escaped cuts too, but $100,000 in mostly marketing and communications and travel expenses have been targeted for reduction, or elimination, this year. “Pride Foundation is very fortunate to not be at financial risk in these hard times,” declared regional program coordinator Farand Gunnels. The foundation enjoys a healthy endowment, strengthened in early 2008 by a $19 million gift, and the ongoing support of some 3,500 donors. This endowment took a hit in Wall Street’s recent unraveling, reported Gunnels, but it was a much smaller one than foundation finance managers had expected – 5 percent versus 13 percent. OutSpokane approaches the 2009 Pride Parade and Rainbow Festival with great care. “Activities need to pay for themselves.” The board is committed to avoiding the mistakes of 2008. “At the very least, we break even.”

Give Us the Money ll respondents paid homage A to fundraising as a key activity of nonprofit management. Pulse continued on page 8

www.qviewnorthwest.com | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | March 2009 |

Law&Wine

When you get a Will drafted, say “Trust Me” ... and trustworthy wines! by Albert Coke Roth, III, Esq.

Attorney and international wine judge Coke Roth blends personality with GLBT legal insight & wine recommendations

Albert Coke Roth, III is the Principal of the Roth*Coleman Law Office in Kennewick, WA and is licensed to practice law in Washington and Oregon, practicing law in the areas of Estate and Relationship Planning, Business and Business Succession Planning and matters of Real Estate. You can contact Coke at (509) 783-0220 or coke@rothcoleman.com , or visit www.rothcoleman.com . Coke is also an international wine judge, winery consultant, and a panelist for WinePress Northwest Magazine.

Law

Trust….just sounds good, doesn’t it? Thoughts of fidelity, honesty, value and other complementary superlatives fill the mind. Well, just leave it up to a lawyer to redefine a term, because when you are talkin’ law and you say the word “Trust”, it is a term of art. In general, Trusts are really great ways for the dead hand to control the distribution of wealth. Although the use of Trusts first became named and used in the Middle Ages, the principal is older than that, in fact, down right ancient. This principal involves three players; the person that has stuff, who gives it to another person to hold it for yet another person’s benefit. We call the person with the stuff the Grantor, Trustor or Settlor. The second in line who is charged with holding the stuff is the Trustee…another cuddly name, huh? Makes me just want to hug them… The third person who benefits from the gift of the Grantor is the Beneficiary…. let me go on record as wanting to be that guy. There are many types of Trusts, some more popular than others. Trusts that spring from a Will are called Testamentary Trusts. Trusts that are formed by a Grantor when the Grantor is still vertical and taking nourishment are called

| March 2009 | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | www.qviewnorthwest.com

Living or Inter Vivos Trusts, so stay tuned because I will be discussing Revocable Living Trusts in next month’s article of Law and Wine. The use of Testamentary Trusts is a cool way to give property away after death, and you don’t need to fiddle with expensive and confusing administration of a Trust when you are alive. Rarely do I write a Will that does not have a Testamentary Trust of some kind. If a person has children less than twenty-five or so, or children of any age that have a challenges. I put the assets they are gifted into a Children’s Trust to give them access to the assets when they need it and not when they want it; for education, health care, dentistry, buying a home and the like. And, I plan for procreation…kids do that…so the Children’s Trust applies to later generations if a child beneficiary dies with a child. If you don’t control the disposition of gifts to those with acute hormone poisoning, the money is used for really fun and memorable temporal pleasures, tattoos, piercings and motorcycles, etc., instead of marginally useful things like education and health… most people want their hard earned dollars spent in a fairly responsible fashion. I am now integrating a contingent Testamentary Special Needs Trust in every Will just because you never know who in your family will qualify for government entitlement programs. This cool provision shifts a beneficiary’s share into a Trust that only gives them the amount of money that does not disqualify them from some government program. Without a Special Needs Trust, you might as well list the government as a beneficiary. One important use of Testamentary Trusts is dealing with the members in the normal family….the normal family now being anything but normal…his, hers, ours/his,his/hers,hers kids…you get the picture….seems like it’s about ninety percent of the population. You can place your worldly possessions to benefit the

grieving widow/widower trophy spouse for his/her life, or just for a while, and keep it away from the pool boy/girl that he/she will hook up with before your body is cold. At some point, the Trust corpus (lawyerly word for the stuff in the Trust) goes to benefit your kids, grandkids, heirs, the dog-pound…anyone you want to give it to. Often times there is a need to plan a Testamentary Trust for one asset, like a business interest you want someone to run for the benefit of another, or a home you want someone to live in for a while, or assets that benefits one person or charity for a while, then end up in the lap of someone else….that kinda thing. If your estate is above $3.5 Million like mine (Riiiiiiiiiiii iiiiiiight!), we draft a tax- in planning Testamentary Trust, called a Bypass, Credit Shelter or Disclaimer Trust that shelters the lifetime exemption for federal estate tax…most of us mere mortals are not worried about this, however, if you have those amounts of wealth and are married, you need a Credit Shelter Will provision to double the exemption on federal estate tax….

federal estate tax is just under 50%. While there are rules on what you can direct, the rules generally fit within reasonable bounds for most people. You can place assets In Trust for over 100 years before a required distribution. You set the rules, so you can use the compelling “shall” and “must” or use the discretionary “may” or use the prohibitionary terms like “shall not” and “NO WAY!!!”. This is popular when kids are involved because you want to require the distribution of assets for education, for example, however, for the tattoos and piercings, you probably want the Trustee to exercise the “Hell No” option. Finally, the assets that you place into Testamentary Trust can be everything from money or savings to your bowling ball…or fractional interests like half of your snow skis or half of your 4plex…no rules for the most part. Whether you are married or not, in a registered or unregistered domestic partnership or not, you need a Will and you need to seek the advise of your lawyer, not some on-line service, as to how to structure Testamentary Trusts to benefit your needs and desires.

Wine

I gotta tell you, being Coke Roth is just too much fun sometimes. Being a wine judge at major competitions all around North America is a blast, and being a tasting panelist for Wine Press Northwest Magazine is great because I get to log in several thousand wines per year, whether New Release tastings or our feature article tastings. One such feature article tasting was last week where we went through eighty-eight get-no-respect Bordeaux varieties: Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petite Verdot and Carmenere. You can log on to www.winepressnw.com for a complete list with detailed tasting notes, however, from my notes I liked the wines from these “Rodney Dangerfield” varieties: Dusted Valley Cab Franc‘06; Sineann Champoux Vineyards Cab Franc ’07; Barrister Cab Franc ’06; Seven Hills Walla Walla Malbec ’06; Sawtooth Malbec Snake River, Idaho ’06; Black Hills Okanogan (BC) Carmenere ’07; Northstar Petite Verdot ’06. TRUST ME, they’re great! © Albert Coke Roth, III 2009

Aging continued on page 8 www.qviewnorthwest.com | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | March 2009 |

k.d. lang’s got a soft spot for

Spokane An interview with k.d. lang by Joan Opyr

I

have followed k. d. lang’s career ever since she wore hand-me-down suits from Hank Snow’s trash can and cut her own hair with dull scissors. I’ve bought every album she’s ever released, every single, every duet, every soundtrack. When she came out in 1992, I was ecstatic. At 25, I’d been hovering in the doorway of my own closet for far too long, but thanks to a new relationship – fueled in part by lang’s brilliant and beautiful Ingénue – I came out and I stayed out. I am most definitely a fan. It’s not that I idolize k. d. lang. I am simply in awe. What a voice, what a woman . . . what to do when my publisher, Mike Schultz, says that he’s arranged for me to interview her? Sit down, get my pencil out, and try not to choke, faint, or drop the phone because, oh my God, it’s k. d. lang calling. Joan? Ms. lang?

kd lang continued on page 14

| March 2009 | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | www.qviewnorthwest.com

O

tony Farr and our Spokane’s Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture’s Interactive Chalkboard, created by Ken Spiering and Harold Balazs, serves as backdrop for Tony Farr.

Aging GLBT

Community

Part 3 of 3 by Lorna Doone Brewer Photo above and front cover by Nicole Hensley

The idea of looking to the older generation for guidance certainly isn’t a new one, but it seems to be an easy one to ignore in modern Western society. While the elderly are often overlooked in American culture altogether, it can be argued that this phenomenon is compounded within the gay community.

ver the last couple of months, we have used this series to explore what retirement looks like for the aging gay population. We’ve talked about choosing the right retirement community, about the legalities of domestic partnerships, and about how to protect your inheritance. We’ve also talked a bit about how the gay and lesbian Baby Boomers don’t really have a previous generation to emulate as they reach retirement and old age. The group that has fought in so many ways for us to be where we are today is still making it up as they go along. There are a number of reasons that younger generations don’t look to their predecessors, and each of them rings fairly hollow. The fact of the matter is that the older folks have a lot to teach us. In many cases, all we need to do is ask. Tony Farr is a Spokane resident who works for S.L. Start and Associates helping people with disabilities reach their potential. He is a Vietnam veteran. He is a witness to the AIDS epidemic of the 1980s. He is a former monk. In addition to all of these things, Tony is also a gay man who is approaching the age of retirement and figuring out just what that means for him. “If I were to go back 30 years ago,” he says, “I think I would have looked at things differently. I would have done those things at 30 that seemed silly. Like planning ahead.” Talking with Tony is a comfortable experience. He’s warm and welcoming with quite a sense of humor. Somehow he is authoritative and humble all at once. When he begins to speak of his life, you intrinsically know that he has something profound to share. That is, if you’re willing to listen. Tony is well aware that the American gay culture does not tend to honor seniors. “By and large, I think we are a culture Aging continued on page 10

www.qviewnorthwest.com | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | March 2009 |

Pulse continued from page 3 OYC is fortifying its fundraising committee but shared no specifics as to what, if anything, will be done differently in 2009. SAN will raise money as it always has. To date, no new fundraising events are planned. OutSpokane will significantly boost fundraising efforts; they are looking at new or higher fees for Pride Celebration events, increased grant-seeking, and a wide array of fundsgenerating special events. Allowing that some nonprofits, and many for-profit entities, may fail in the coming year, Gunnels offered encouragement to his colleagues: “We [Pride Foundation’s team] believe that there is still plenty of generosity in the community. People are valuing their money differently, and many people are at least sustaining, if not increasing, their charitable giving. This is not a time for nonprofits to be shy about asking their supporters for help.”

Open Books, Open Wallets hat, conversely, can W supporters expect of these nonprofits? “SAN is pretty

much an open book except when it comes to our clients. Any information regarding them is confidential,” leaders wrote. We should hope so. The same holds for Odyssey youth, Foster-Fausett made clear. She distinguished youth needs and access to organizational information from donor access, but I will refrain from further analysis here. “The Odyssey board discussed your article and decided not to answer questions at length at this time due to time constraints,” began a brief e-mail dated Feb. 9 from OYC’s board chair Kelly Lerner. She noted that board meetings are open to the public ¬(second Wednesday of every month, 6 p.m. at OYC). “We

welcome and enjoy partnerships with other local GLBT organizations. ...” Most respondents reported “open board meetings.” That means anyone can attend. It does not mean attendees can participate in board business uninvited, and they certainly cannot impose their personal agendas on organizational decision making. I insert this caveat because I’ve witnessed meetings where this happened. Meeting minutes are public records. Most nonprofits will release them to anyone who requests them. In the past, the Inland Northwest LGBT Center, which declined to contribute to this roundup, posted theirs online. OutSpokane will be doing so soon. Minutes usually include a treasurer’s report, which would give prospective donors or volunteers a picture of the organization’s financial health at a specific moment in time. Among survey respondents, Pride Foundation and EMCC publish and distribute an annual report. OutSpokane produces a financial document they call the Final Budget Breakdown; contact their treasurer for a copy. SAN releases financial information annually in June. Want to see it? Just ask. All local GLBTQ nonprofits have web sites, some better maintained than others. Sandra Williams, executive director of OYC, updated their web site the week before this article went to press; prior to that effort, the site featured year-old news, a point I make not to embarrass the center but to emphasize their need for a web-savvy volunteer. Any takers? Odyssey can always use new volunteers. So can SAN, OutSpokane, the LGBT Center, …. We’re talking about nonprofits that run on tight budgets. If you don’t have money to give them, then donate your time. And, if you can, do both.

Community perceptions of organizations can be quite fluid. “A nonprofit always has a love-hate relationship with the community. You will find some people who love SAN and hate SAN.” “I think there are many in the community who are critical and judgmental of EMCC, maybe for past reasons, but continue to hang onto those issues and fail to move on,” wrote Wayne Shull, lay pastoral leader. “I think people use these issues as excuses for not getting involved in any organization. They would rather sit back and complain than do anything ….”

Nonprofits Speak to You, Q View Readers utSpokane’s board asks the O GLBTQ community through the Q View readership, “What

do you want to see in Pride? What would it take for you to get involved?” The folks at SAN challenge us to remember that HIV/AIDS continues to be a concern for our community. “It is time for the younger generation to get involved as they are now being affected. While aid to Africa, etc., is crucial, HIV remains a problem in the U.S.A. and should not be ignored.” Pride Foundation has funds, concedes Gunnels, but “we are only able to assist 1 in 3 students who come to us for scholarship assistance.” Just nine of 17 groups that sought grants in the last Inland Northwest funding cycle received awards. “There is still plenty of unmet need in our community.” And what about the responsibilities of nonprofit leadership? Shull gave a succinct and elegant description: “We must be good stewards of public trust, make the best decisions possible, and be transparent in our dealings.” Pulse continued on page 17

| March 2009 | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | www.qviewnorthwest.com

(Readers, recall from the last two months that I’m talking to Mark, my college roommate of 28 years ago. While finishing up a pitcher of beer, I also finish answering his question, “When did you become such an advocate?” The conversation is imaginary because I missed the chance to have it last fall when I saw him at our college homecoming. But some of our best reality begins with imagination, so I’m hopeful that this is the first step toward a real conversation. In fact, tomorrow I’m mailing Mark a complete set of these last three issues!)

O

kay, Mark, you asked when I became “such an advocate.” I’ve explained how and why I became an Ally—because the how and why are really what matter most. But now that you heard me talk about empathy, faith, friendship, and experience—and how they all came together during my years in seminary and then percolated for a decade, let me tell how I found my voice. Eventually I went back to graduate school to study Christian Ethics. When I had a chance to write a paper on a topic of my choice, I picked “Homosexuality and the Lutheran Church.” That paper was the first time I exercised my voice as an Ally in anything more than a private conversation. It didn’t take much courage to “come out” as an Ally in a graduate school seminar class, but it did give me a valuable opportunity to assemble all the best arguments for welcoming gays and lesbians into the church and to anticipate the strongest counter arguments. We all fall back on what’s most familiar when we’re a little unsure, so it’s only honest to say I came out first up in my head. A year later my own Lutheran congregation was discussing gays and lesbians in the Lutheran church. By the time I spoke up, I’d heard enough to know I was in a mildly hostile setting. But, bolstered by my academic work

ally

“outing” myself as an

Bolstered by my academic work and more importantly driven by my friendships, I pushed my words, my simple testimony from experience, into the circle. This was scary for me, but I did it. Afterwards I was astonished by how many others who had been silent thanked me profusely. There are a lot of silent allies out there. by David R. Weiss

and more importantly driven by my friendships, I pushed my words, my simple testimony from experience, into the circle. This was scary for me, but I did it. Afterwards I was astonished by how many others who had been silent thanked me profusely. There are a lot of silent allies out there. But of my several steps in “coming out,” the one that changed my life forever, the one that offers the clearest answer to WHEN I became such an advocate happened February 20, 1997. That evening, while a graduate student at the University of Notre Dame, I read an anonymous piece in a campus publication in which a gay man, now a senior, lamented that he had come to school four years ago knowing he was gay but scared what it would cost him at Notre Dame to come out to anyone at all. Four years later, looking ahead to graduation, he found himself, as he titled his piece, still “living in fear.” I said earlier I was an “Ally-justwaiting-to-happen.” I was waiting for that moment. As I read his piece something broke wide open inside me. I wrote a response to him. Not a third-person defense of being gay but a second-person letter of comfort and affirmation.

I ransacked the Bible for images of inclusion. I wrote long into the night, polishing my words while tears streamed down my face. Who can account for such moments? There is no explanation sufficient except to say I was moved by Grace from near silence into full speech in a single night. A week later my response appeared in print and I was out. Not many people at Notre Dame knew me by sight, but the whole campus now knew that whoever “David Weiss” was, he was clearly an Ally. All I’ve done since then is keep my mouth open. And, Mark, the words just keep coming. From some place far deeper than just my imagination. Yes, they’re my words, but really my voice is just doing its best to carry a Voice that’s been speaking about welcome far longer than I have. I’ve written newspaper op-ed pieces, preached sermons, and given classroom lectures. I taught an entire course, “GLBT Voices in Theology,” that took me, along with my students, into a land richer with insight than I could have anticipated. In fact, I courted Margaret while teaching this Ally continued on page 20

www.qviewnorthwest.com | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | March 2009 |

Aging continued from page 7 of the youth,” he tells me. It is a shame, though, as Tony and his generation have a wealth of knowledge that really can benefit those who are following in their footsteps. When it comes to talking about the division between the older and younger generations, Tony is a little disappointed. He sees the numbers of AIDS cases rising in the male gay population and laments that there is a whole generation that understands all too clearly what AIDS will do. He feels that those of his generation need to be sharing that knowledge, but that there is not much of a place for those voices to be heard. “We have a lot of good energy that’s missing,” he explains. Tony estimates that about half of his male friends from his young adulthood never had the opportunity to become senior citizens. Rather, they were taken by “the gay cancer” that later came to be called AIDS. It became sort of a calling for him to support these men who often had no family. Without a hint of anger, Tony says, “I remember thinking how unfair it was that there were kids, and their families refused to bury them or to be with them.” He talks about how some funeral homes wouldn’t touch the bodies or how candy stripers would refuse to enter these patients’ hospital rooms. That’s not to say that he wasn’t angry at the time. “I remember thinking ‘there’s something wrong here.’” This led Tony to experience a spiritual crisis. “And then I went away to be a monk.” Prompted by the injustice he’d witnessed both in the hospitals and in the jungles of Vietnam, Tony felt compelled to “get off the train.” “I recognized there’s a lot more to God than we realize and that God doesn’t necessarily have a white beard and keep a little scorecard.” He emerged from the monastery five years later with the belief that “We do a lot of craziness to ourselves. God

has nothing to do with it. God is alright. We make God crazy.” Despite the gravity of the subjects—war, death, and the nature of God—Tony always manages to stay light and unassuming. After all, he’s just sharing a few opinions and observations. It’s not his intention to force anyone to change. Reflecting back on times when he and his friends were harassed by police, he recalls having a lot of anger, but he feels like he’s had the opportunity to move forward out of it. He’s discovered that he’d simply prefer not to succumb to anger. “I’d rather put that energy into changing one person. That one person will change somebody else.” “It’s not that I don’t care,” he continues, “it’s just that I’ve learned that I have to make a difference.” For the past several years, Tony has been making a difference in the lives of the clients with developmental disabilities. He admits that he will put off retirement, in many ways due to concerns over how he would cover medical and other expenses after retirement. He’s also become aware that he may have to integrate more and more with the dominant culture as he continues to age. After all, he points out, even though there are gay-centric condos, cruises, etc., these are generally geared toward younger people rather than seniors. Surprisingly, however, he has found that heterosexual seniors seem to be even more accepting of differences than their younger counterparts. With the smile of one who is in the know, he shares that “Older people are not as stuck in the mud as you might think.” Because he doesn’t have children or a partner, Tony is also faced with making decisions regarding powers of attorney and such. Because he hasn’t yet determined the person he feels comfortable putting in charge, he has made sure that his doctor is aware of his wishes. He intends to spend some time in the coming year to put things in order, “Getting it all set up so it’s neat and tidy.” Of

10 | March 2009 | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | www.qviewnorthwest.com

course, it’s not unusual to put off these types of decisions, whether you’re gay or not, partnered or not, or retired or not. The idea of looking to the older generation for guidance certainly isn’t a new one, but it seems to be an easy one to ignore in modern Western society. While the elderly are often overlooked in American culture altogether, it can be argued that this phenomenon is compounded within the gay community. For one thing, those now reaching retirement really do represent the first generation of men and women to do so while being open about their sexuality. Up to this point, there were not a lot of opportunities to learn from those who preceded us. For those who are following behind, the struggles and triumphs of this generation will have everything to do with the struggles and triumphs of the next. The decisions they make and the barriers they break will determine how younger generations approach their own retirements. Generation X and all those who come after need to keep a watchful eye on what develops in the next several years in order to make the best choices for their own futures. Likewise, they should embrace the opportunity to learn from the experiences of the generation that has been witness to such dramatic changes in the course of a lifetime.

Lorna Doone Brewer is a freelance writer living in Spokane, Washington. After earning a B.A. in Theatre Arts at Gonzaga University, she took her love for the arts and social justice one step further by pursuing an M.A. in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis in Nonprofit Organizations. She is a co-owner of the Berry-Brewer Freelance Agency, producing a variety of materials for businesses, with a special focus on nonprofits.

www.qviewnorthwest.com | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | March 2009 | 11

giving back at

Oscar Gala SAN’s

photo by Marc Morris

Hundreds attend Spokane AIDS Network’s 11th annual Oscar Night Gala fundraiser at Northern Quest Casino on Sunday, February 28th.

by Blair Tellers

T

he economy is less than peachy. Hardworking people have gotten laid off from their jobs. Alcohol taxes have increased. It’s cold outside. Paul Newman died this year. Yes, it is safe to say most everyone has felt the wafting zephyr of disillusionment pervading today’s general outlook on things like cash flow, war and unemployment. The thing about slumps, however is that they often have an uncanny way of pulling us together in ways we don’t expect. Granted, times are tough—and while scrimping and saving are our first impulse—it isn’t necessarily the entire antidote. Maybe re-focusing on what we do have and how we can share it—is. Even better? Sharing in good company.

My roommate and I arrived at the Spokane AIDS Network’s 11th annual Oscar Night Gala not sure of what to expect, and found ourselves delightfully surprised by everything: the food, the classy atmosphere, the auction, and, most of all, the eclectic mix of people we got to meet. The largest event put on by SAN, the Oscar Gala is an annual black tie fundraising event held at the Northern Quest Casino. Guests enjoy a formal dinner while the Oscars are broadcast on several large screens hanging from the walls of the banquet room. Our table was filled with a pleasant and interesting bunch, including Tom Brokaw’s cousin, an elderly gentleman who shared my affinity for classic actors, and our table host, Donna Flanagan. A hard working board member for SAN, Flanagan explained to

12 | March 2009 | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | www.qviewnorthwest.com

us the gala began as an event in someone’s home, eventually progressing to the Davenport and finally moving to the casino. “AIDS hits people of all economic, educated and ethnic backgrounds. People who are at risk and people who care about those who are at risk are here,” she told us. “The fact it hits all of us in one way or another is what brings us all together.” In addition to the cost of the gala tickets, the silent auction is a major constituent of the fundraiser. After making friends at our table, my roommate and I meandered through the auction, the elements of which were smartly arrayed in a snazzy display in the middle of the room. SAN’s board director Oscar continued on page 20

My oh Myah... Just sold another one!

509-954-9207

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www.qviewnorthwest.com | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | March 2009 | 13

kd lang continued from page 6 k. d., please. k. d., hello. Thank you for talking with me. Congratulations on your Juno nominations! Artist of the Year and Producer of the Year for Watershed. That’s terrific. It’s a shocker. Shocking? Shocking and hilarious. I did that album in the closet – it’s the only thing I do in the closet. A lot of the songs I did on one take, and they’ve nominated me for producer of the year. It’s hilarious. It’s a great album. Well, thank you. Let’s talk about it. You were basically Brian Wilson on this album – you were singer, songwriter, and producer. This was entirely your project from start to finish. What was that like? Was it frightening? Was it freeing?

I was 26 when I made Shadowland, and that was something I needed to do as a tribute to particular singers and a sound I loved. When I’m performing, I think of myself as an actress. When I’m singing the American songbook, I sing it in a particular style that I think fits the material. That may sound phony, but it isn’t. It respects the work. Over the course of your career, you’ve been so hard to pin down. Is that acting as much as material? It’s really difficult to market me. My albums are filed all over the place. Sometimes, I find “All You Can Eat” listed as Country. It’s been 8 years since Invincible Summer. Have you been writing songs for Watershed all that time? Were all the songs on Watershed written specifically for the album, or are there some older songs you’d written that had been waiting for this particular project? I’ve been these writing songs since 2001. I didn’t think I was writing for an album, but then I found cohesion.

All of the above. There were moments when it was scary. There was no fall guy, no one to take the blame if it didn’t go well. I had to keep saying to myself, “You can do it. Just do it.” It was about putting my head down and going forward. The most difficult part was to listen honestly to my instincts. Sometimes your mind gets in the way. Because there are a lot of first take recordings on the album, there are some sonic mistakes, but that makes it what it is. It’s like Alice Waters (chef and founder of ‘California cuisine.’) It’s about using what you have to make this dish.

You also have a new DVD. Tell me about that.

How does a project like this differ from working with a classic, strong-willed, external producer like Owen Bradley? I loved Shadowland, but it’s clear that you know your own voice better and that you bring out something very different in yourself.

Not really.

The BBC had a series of songwriters playing in this church. They asked me, and so I went over, but this was only the third time I’d played with my new band. I didn’t know what would happen. It turned out really well. Have you seen the DVD? I’ve been watching some clips, and you appear to be barefoot. Does that make you feel more grounded when you’re performing?

Then, I have to know – why? I love my boots. If my girlfriend would let me, I’d wear them to bed. [Laughs.] We’re complete opposites

14 | March 2009 | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | www.qviewnorthwest.com

then. Why am I barefoot? Because a long time ago, I opened my big mouth and became a PETA spokesman. I couldn’t wear my leather boots anymore, but plastic boots suck – and they’re ugly. That’s why I’m barefoot. It’s not because I’m trying to be Paul McCartney on Abbey Road. So, I’ve been a fan of yours since A Truly Western Experience. I am hardcore. I’ve seen you in concert in many states, and I’m thrilled you’re coming here, but my editor wants me to ask you, “Why Spokane?” I understand you’re flying in, playing the concert, and flying back out. How did we get lucky enough to get on your radar? I’ve been to Spokane many times before. I’ve always had a soft spot for Spokane – I have an aunt who lives here. I’ve done a year of touring already, and now I’m hitting the secondary markets. I really like this part of the tour. When you’re playing smaller venues, it’s more about the music. More intimate? Yeah. I really like that. About Spokane – can you tell that we have an inferiority complex when it comes to Seattle? No. I don’t believe that. I have a prediction: Spokane is going to have a renaissance. Did you write that down? Yes. Spokane is going to have a renaissance. Good things are going to happen there. Like what? I don’t know, but I believe it. I told you – I have a soft spot for Spokane. If you don’t mind, I’d like to go back to 1992 and the release of

Ingénue. I know that’s when you came out to The Advocate and were on the cover of Vanity Fair with Cindy Crawford, but what I really want to know is what was it like to have put out an album that was a mix of Barry White, Marvin Gaye, and Love Potion No. 9? [Laughs.] That was a sex-driven album. At that time, sex was at the forefront of the culture. Madonna was the most popular performer. She was everywhere. I think that Ingénue was very indicative of the time. Ingénue was pure seduction. You must have gotten some interesting fan mail. [Laughs.] Quite a bit. I know that if you brought a girl back to your place and put Ingénue on the CD player, the jig was up. She knew you weren’t going to study Algebra. Just ask my wife. We got together because of Ingénue. I played it all that spring until she finally agreed to go out with me. Well, thank you. That’s a great story. It’s true. I wonder how many relationships, marriages, and babies owe their existence to that album? And how many divorces. Do you listen to your own albums? No. I only listen to my own music when I’m referencing for a set list for a tour. It’s fun to listen once in a while, if enough time has passed so that there’s a safety zone. I have to get past the ‘eek’ factor. I know what you mean. I’m a novelist, and I would never sit down and read one of my own books. It would be too weird, either a giant ego fest or I’d be cringing at all the flaws. Political question – you live in California but you also have a home in

Canada. What’s it like to go from Proposition 8 and this endless, ongoing battle over same-sex marriage to your country, which settled this issue in our favor pretty peacefully a few years ago? Are you tempted to stay up there where you have civil rights and just visit down here? I’m proud to be a Canadian. I will always be a Canadian. But I have a green card, and I’m part of this country. Canada is smaller and more manageable. American has a bigger responsibility. Faith doesn’t have any place in government. What I say is be patient with Proposition 8. That’s hard, but I’m looking at it in a couple of ways. I’m an old school homo – I like the cryptic, alternative life. Being mainstream gives me the heebie jeebies. But of course we should have marriage. Of course we should have it. Tony Bennett described you as the greatest singer of your generation. Is there anyone in this up and coming generation that you think we should keep an eye on? Apart, of course, from Hannah Montana. [Laughs.] From France, there’s Krystle Warren. You should really give her a listen. You won’t believe what you’re hearing – she’s amazing. I also really like Bon Iver, a guy from Minnesota.

Perfect luck. What inspires you? What motivates you to tackle a new project? How do you keep fresh? I check for space in my calendar, and then some of it is dictated by finances. Do I have enough money to not work for six months or a year while I write and record? This year, I won’t write again until after July. Last question. I’m going to push it here, and you can answer or not as you see fit. You were for many years the lesbian Warren Beatty – always on the move, every woman’s dream date – but I read recently that you’ve been happily married for the past few years. A change in outlook or you met the right woman? [Long pause and then . . . laughs.] A little of both. It’s been eight years, and she can take my shit and send it back to me with a bow on it. We’re both Buddhists, and that shared faith has enriched our relationship and taken it to a place no other relationship [of mine] has ever been. I really loved being the lesbian Warren Beatty. It was a lot of fun. But I looked around, and past 40, it’s a bit unsavory.

Looks like I’m headed to iTunes. iTunes has made me fall in love with music again. The iPod is how I’ve always wanted to listen to music. I put it on shuffle and set it to mix as random and as unlikely as possible. That’s perfect. You don’t use iTunes Genius then? No! That’s all wrong. I don’t want to listen to things because they sound alike. The best iTunes shuffle I got was Amy Winehouse next to Maria Callas.

Joan Opyr is a gigantic crank. Her life is frequently weird, and she enjoys writing and talking about that. She’s a transplanted Southerner who dreams of golden beaches, sweet iced tea, and sunny skies. She believes that Eva Cassidy should be beatified. Oh, and she’s also an award-winning novelist.

www.qviewnorthwest.com | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | March 2009 | 15

The Future of Gay Media By Wayne Besen

I

n one of the most important articles of the year, Walter Isaacson wrote in Time Magazine about the shredding of the newspaper business. With free content available online, people are dropping daily subscriptions and newsstand sales are declining. The only way for newspapers to remain profitable is through advertising revenue in the print and online editions. The problem with this business model, however, is that it leaves newsrooms beholden to advertising interests instead of readers. And, if the economy goes into a tailspin, precipitous drops in advertising can quickly lead to ruin. Isaacson says the way to save the news business is to move to a paradigm where newspapers go completely digital and readers pay directly for online content. For example, a web surfer who wants to read an individual story online can pay a nickel - or pay a larger fee for a weekly esubscription. The main obstacle is creating technology that makes reading e-news as pleasurable as the newspaper experience. Within a few years, however, new technology will make this possible, with several products scheduled to hit the market. If mainstream newspapers are having a difficult time, it should be no surprise that gay and lesbian publications are disappearing faster than a rabbit at a magic show. There is a long list of venerable GLBT publications that have recently vanished. Earlier this month, Gay City News reported, “the investment fund that owns the Washington

Blade, the Southern Voice, Genre magazine, and other gay publications has been forced into receivership by the federal Small Business Administration (SBA), which will sell the fund’s assets and distribute the proceeds to investors.” When the technology reaches fruition, the GLBT media should embrace Isaacson’s model. The gay community’s top reporters do a superior job covering the news and offer in-depth analysis that can’t be duplicated. I am willing to bet that people will pay for such content. The question is, will the publications themselves actually

16 | March 2009 | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | www.qviewnorthwest.com

survive or will the GLBT media become a collection of enterprising freelance reporters who sell by the story? While most items would not bring a large bounty - there would likely be a couple of breaking stories that would pay the bills. For example, a blockbuster story with 250,000 downloads at a nickel per purchase would yield $25,000. Of course, new technology would also have to make it more difficult to cut and paste more than one paragraph per story. And, much like cameras that take pictures of those that run red lights, an electronic surveillance system that imposed small penalties - perhaps a dollar per infraction

- would have to be developed. There would always be ways to get around the system. But, one would hope that enough people would have the decency to pay for good reporting to make it work. GLBT bloggers should also welcome changes where they would actually get paid for their labor. It is disgraceful that some of our leading lights are posting during lunch breaks at their day jobs. Given their influence and size of their audiences, it is absurd that they have not reaped enough wealth to blog full-time. Fans may balk, but they must realize they are also getting shortchanged. Imagine how much better most blogs would be if the writers had another 8-10 hours a day to conduct research? The products would be infinitely superior and be of greater value. Ultimately, the axiom, “you get what you pay for” rings true. People must also realize that the status quo will soon lead to

Pulse continued from page 8

Process vs. Product: The Community Dilemma … Again Transparency: the quality or state of being transparent – allowing light to pass through with little or no interruption or distortion; free from pretense or deceit; frank. We revisit this simple concept, something I had always considered a mainstay of good governance. How many times has President Obama invoked its ideal since his inauguration? But I sense a hesitance on the part of some of our nonprofit boards to wholeheartedly embrace the idea. Many were reluctant to respond to my questions. Some were sluggish in returning the questionnaire. Several respondents offered terse and/or vague answers. It’s given me pause. What are they afraid of?

burnout among the best bloggers. Without a financial incentive commensurate with their work, don’t be surprised when your favorite bloggers choose relationships over readership. If you don’t pay, many will fade away - which would be a great loss to the GLBT community. In order for this business model to work, the leading bloggers, gossip sites and journalists will have to create a new type of union - where they jump off the cliff all at once. There would also be an initial loss of readers, but who cares? The writer would still make more money by retaining a subset of paying readers. And, many of the dissenters would come back when they realized the true value of a product they once viewed as their birthright.

Village, citing economic trouble. This follows the demise of the famed bookstore Crossroads Market in Dallas. With few venues to sell books and fewer publishers, it is a tough time for gay authors. While the major retailers have GLBT sections, rarely do these books receive prime shelf space. E-books may be a way to cut out the middleman, save on printing costs and let gay authors sell directly to the reading public. Best of all, no more hand cramps from book signings! The article in Time Magazine showed that the very concept of a magazine was a relic beyond its time. In the end, the tumultuous changes forced by the recession may be what resuscitates and revolutionizes the GLBT publishing industry.

On a similar note, the continued improvement of E-book technology may save the GLBT publishing industry. On March 29, the legendary Oscar Wilde bookstore will close in Greenwich

Wayne Besen is the Founding Executive Director of Truth Wins Out and author of “Anything But Straight: Unmasking the Scandals and Lies Behind the Ex-Gay Myth” (Haworth, 2003). He can be reached at www.truthwinsout.org .

Why did this exercise generate such angst?

had prompted the decision to reschedule publication.

Between Jan. 8 and Jan. 12, the survey went out by e-mail to staff and board members of EMCC, SAN, OYC, OutSpokane, The Inland Northwest LGBT Center, the Inland Northwest Business Alliance (INBA), the Pride Foundation and the Imperial Sovereign Court of Spokane (ISCS). When three leaders indicated that their respective boards needed more time to thoughtfully review the questions, the publication date was postponed a month, the response return deadline pushed back to Feb. 7.

While I don’t really believe anyone is attempting to obscure the truth, the outcome is nonetheless hazy. I find myself back where I started before Christmas, pondering the enduring communication quirks of our GLBTQ community.

A few days before that date, I received word from both the LGBT Center and INBA that they would not be submitting responses. This would have been an “oh, well” moment except for the fact that INBA was one of the groups whose January comments

I remembered a telling e-mail from Leonard Jenkins, public relations director for Dempsey’s Brass Rail. He offered his expertise to OutSpokane in the weeks following the 2008 Pride Celebration. Fundraising ideas were floated. A committee was formed. When he was the only one who showed up for the first planning meeting, however, he withdrew his support, inviting leaders to contact him when they were ready to seriously address their funding issues. Pulse continued next page

www.qviewnorthwest.com | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | March 2009 | 17

Pulse continued from previous page “This happens all the time in our community,” Jenkins noted. “People say they’re going to do something and it takes months to get things done, if anything gets done at all.” He later followed through on his promise, facilitating the “For the Love of Pride” fundraising dinner at Dempsey’s on Valentine’s Day. Jenkins characterized community interactions as “frustrating.” Nonprofits don’t work together, he lamented. “I really do see them as dysfunctional. … They [leaders] have their own hidden agendas. It’s the old ‘What’s in it for me?’ … They don’t attend each other’s events except for Odyssey’s.” I imagine the folks at OYC will be shocked to read this, for they don’t think they get any greater community support than any other GLBTQ operation. Jenkins counted off issues he feels the community overlooks – cutbacks in HIV/AIDS funding, the constant and growing poverty in Spokane, especially among lesbians with children, and the rarely talked about problems of GLBTQ parents. “Did you know the ISCS has an emergency fund?” he asked, referring to the 37-year-old 501(c)(4) to which he belongs. “We have seen a major increase in requests for money.” ISCS makes awards on a case-by-case basis, up to $100 per year per household. “What are other organizations doing to help our community?” he concluded. I posed a few questions about the nature of communities and our GLBTQ subgroup to Helen Bonser, M.A., L.M.H.C., founder of Diversity Counseling Services and a longtime rights activist. She spoke from a personal perspective, recalling her work in the Inland Northwest some 25 years ago. Most GLBT persons were still quite closeted then.

“Parents and nongay allies were really very important because, we said, we helped to form a bridge between the gay and nongay communities. … Now things are different, aren’t they?”

our allies to support us when they see us flailing and bobbing instead of swimming smoothly and powerfully against the tides of entrenched American societal tradition?”

She continued, “I have learned from experience that GLBT people do not often unite in common cause. They come from all strata of society and many of them have nothing in common except either their sexual orientation or gender issues. Many times also our GLBT individuals do not like one another, and they show it. Many times they seem to live in what I call “pods,” staying with the familiar. I guess we all do that to some extent.

“Look at us!” she continued. “Our groups are constantly rising then falling, undermined by well-meaning individuals more interested in working for their own specific groups than in working together to build a community.

“I have felt sad and discouraged at all the missed opportunities. I believe there are many advantages to coming out, not the least of these is to be real and authentic, to be known for who you are and who you love.” She finished, “I’ve concluded that the GLBT people of Spokane reflect the greater community. Spokane is a self-conscious, selfcritical and self-indifferent kind of place, thinking that we’re not much compared to Seattle and almost any other city. Yet Spokane is gorgeous – with rivers and lakes and forests and mountains, five colleges, a magnificent medical hub for the area, recreation and beauty abounding – and it’s a place to be proud of, just like the gorgeous gay people who live here – full of beauty, talent, and gifts galore – if only they would stand up and be proud.” Connie Segona, a veteran organizer who worked for marriage equality in Massachusetts and has filled many nonprofit staff and board positions in the arts, sums it up this way: “Spokane’s GLBTQ community does not really view itself as a ‘community.’ We are, in fact, a fringe minority with no coherent message, no clear vision and no collaborative plan to move us to that place of full equality we say we want. How can we expect

18 | March 2009 | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | www.qviewnorthwest.com

“Organizations reach their goals by being narrowly focused on them, and by finding what they do best and doing it better than any other organization. Movements reach their goals by taking that behavior a step further – by connecting organized groups (each of which has already defined its unique goals and strengths) and creating a larger, stronger, louder whole. When are we in Spokane going to connect and support one another? “We love to quote Margaret Mead. Let’s live her words: ‘Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.’ ” © 2009, End o’ the Rainbow Enterprises

SUNDAY

Karaoke w/ LIVE WIRE

9pm -1am

no cover

Catherine D. Willis is a writer, editor and community activist who has served on nearly two dozen neighborhood, corporate and community boards and committees over a period of 30 years.

w/ LIVE WIRE

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www.qviewnorthwest.com | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | March 2009 | 19

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Oscar continued from page 12 Paul Tiesse spends much of his year writing to different groups in both Hollywood and local businesses, putting in requests for things like paraphernalia and giveaways. His persistence pays off. In addition to things like tickets to major sporting events, roundtrip vacations to exotic destinations and spa packages, there were a myriad of items to suite all tastes. Pieces like a signed “Harry Potter” DVD, scintillating retro jewelry from Finders Keepers, champagne flutes from Tiffany and Co. and a pair of autographed Gonzaga basketball shoes—each one big enough to house a large rabbit—drew some respectable bids. A couple of the items were campy and good-humored. My personal favorite was the hunky cowboy calendar, which featured a handful of saucy cowboys—and not a whole lot of clothes. My roommate bid on this. And won. The autographed Sean Penn movie poster made quite the splash as well, selling for $700 to an audience member who was either (a) wonderfully generous (b) had a giant crush on Sean Penn, or (c) both.

“We need as much community as we can get,” says Tiesse. “It’s our goal to include everybody in a non-threatening way.” This year’s fundraiser didn’t sell as many tickets as those in the past, and Tiesse believes the economy may have something to do with it. Still, no one can question the gala’s success or its potential to impact the community for years to come. Aside from all of those who will receive help in one way or another from SAN, the gala was also beneficial for a terrier puppy from Spokanimal, who was put up for bid and found a home. “Jamie,” I said, sitting in a state of shock, staring at my roommate who had compulsively held up her card seconds before the auctioneer closed the bidding. “I can’t believe you did that.” “It’s OK Blair,” she told me, beaming. “It’s for a good cause.” And so I write about this experience with a terrier puppy named Bella sleeping in my lap, and would fully encourage anyone who reads this to think about attending the gala next year. It feels good to give back.

Ally continued from page 9 class and reading the words of persons who must either reconcile their sexuality and spirituality or force one or the other into exile—effectively crippling both. I cannot imagine better company for courtship than GLBT theology; it has blessed our relationship in countless ways. When Margaret and I got married we asked a lesbian pastor to officiate. I spent several years traveling the country helping to lead workshops on welcoming GLBT persons in communities of faith. And by the time a decade had passed, I had produced a book’s worth of writing about the wideness of God’s welcome—the book on the table that prompted your question. You see, Mark, at virtually every turn in the biblical tale God’s welcome proves wider than God’s people assumed. That’s the God I’ve encountered—a God still busy surprising people today. I work for that God. And I believe in that God the only way I know how: by putting my life behind my conviction. Mark, that’s why I’m an Ally. Thanks for asking.

Whatever the reason, the money went to a good cause. “AIDS is a very discriminated against disease; there’s a stigma attached to it,” says Tiesse. “We need to show compassion and find ways to make the lives of AIDS victims easier—like providing housing programs, support and advocacy.” Tiesse believes there’s lot of misconception about AIDS, and while treatments are available, they don’t work for everyone. The Spokane AIDS branch, additionally, does not receive as much funding as urban branches because it’s considered a more rural location.

David R. Weiss is a theologian, writer, poet and hymnist committed to doing “public theology” around issues of sexuality, justice, diversity, and peace. His first book is To the Blair Tellers is a recent graduate of Whitworth University with a BA in English Writing and Journalism. She embarks on a mission to prove that not all writers are starving. She hails from Cambria, CA, and enjoys surfing, hanging out with her guinea pig, reading poetry and learning as much as she can from everyone she meets.

20 | March 2009 | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | www.qviewnorthwest.com

Tune of a Welcoming God: Lyrical reflections on sexuality, spirituality and the wideness of God’s welcome (2008 / www.davidrweiss.com).

A lifelong Lutheran, David is a graduate of Wartburg College, Wartburg Seminary, and the University of Notre Dame. He has taught religion and theology at the University of Notre Dame, Luther College, Augsburg College, and Hamline University. Beyond his professional work, David has been active in local peace work and both locally and nationally as an ally for GLBT persons in faith communities. He lives with his wife and children in St. Paul, MN.

Pacific Inland Northwest

Calendar Mar 1 - Apr 15 2009

We’re pleased to share non-profit events on this calendar of interest to the GLBTQA community. Additional calendar events and updated listings can be found on the online Q View Northwest calendar at www.qviewnorthwest.com. Think an event should be added? Drop us a line: mail@qviewnorthwest.com

Worship services at 9:15am 11:00am. Please call for summer worship service times. The Unitarian Universalist Church of Spokane is a designated GLBT Welcoming Congregation by the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations. We welcome faith diversity. Westminster Congregational UCC 8:30am – 9:30am Early Worship 10:30am – 11:30am Traditional Worship No matter who you are or where you are in your faith journey, all are welcome. EMCC Worship 5:00pm Worship 301 S Freya (509) 838-0085 www.emccspokane.org

MONTHLY First Sat

RECURRING EVENTS WEEKLY Tue WSU GLBTA - Pullman 7pm – 8pm The Center, Smith Gym, WSU Campus, Pullman, WA. Coordinates much of the social programming for the campus community such as BBQ’s, camping trips, National Coming Out Day, and Homecoming parade

Wed Alcoholics Anonymous-LGBT 6:30pm – 8:30pm At Bethany Presbyterian Church, 310 S Freya St, Spokane, WA

Thur Eagle Pride 3:30pm (Added Dec 2008)

A group for LGBT men and women and their allies at Eastern Washington University. Women’s and Gender Studies Lounge, 207 Monroe Hall Call: (509)359-6429 QueerSounds 6pm – 8pm KYRS FM 92.3 or 89.9 Online at www.live365. com, search for KYRS Inland NW’s only radio show dedicated to playing music by and for LGBTQ people. Music, interviews, community events. Hosted by DJ Irey and “bob”.

Sat SNO-Saturday Night Out - 5pm – 1am MCC Diversity Pride Center (Gettman Hall), 2626 W Bruneau Pl, Kennewick, WA Alcohol-free environment, GLBTQI & S friendly, Kid friendly, couple & single friendly.

Sun Unitarian Universalist Church of Spokane (Added Feb 2009)

4340 W Fort Wright Drive, Spokane, WA Call: (509)325-6383

Potluck - LGBTQ Family and Friends 6pm – 8pm Westminster Congregational UCC, 411 S Washington, Spokane, WA. Family-friendly non-alcoholic potluck to celebrate being with LGBTQA community. All are welcome. For more info: Westminster Congregational UCC 624-1366 or Inland Northwest LGBT Center 489-1914 www.thelgbtcenter.org

First Sun Bowling! LGBT & Friends 10:30am – 12:30pm North Bowl, 125 W. Sinto Ave. LGBT & Friends $10.00 covers 3 games, shoes and ball. No RSVP required but lanes are limited! Contact: www. inwgbl.org or Mark at 509 879-8747

First Tue Gay & Lesbian Book Group 7:30pm Auntie’s Bookstore - 402 W Main St, Spokane, WA

Second Wed INBA Luncheon 11:30am – 1:00pm at Dempseys Brass Rail. Great opportunity to network with other business people in the area. www.inbaspokane.org Vista Youth Center Board Meeting - Kennewick 5:30pm – 7:30pm Vista Youth Center, 2625 W Bruneau Pl, Ste E, Kennewick, WA`

Last Thur Tri-Cities PFLAG Meeting 7pm – 9pm (monthly, last Thur of the month) Gettman Hall, 2625 W Bruneau Pl, Kennewick, WA www. tcpflag.org

NON-RECURRING EVENTS March Sat 7 ISCS “Erase the Hate” Fundraiser Show 8:00-10:00pm Show and fundraiser for ISCS at Dempseys Brass Rail.

Wed 11

(Added Dec 2008)

INBA Luncheon (Unique monthly speakers) 11:30am – 1:00pm at Europa. This month’s guest speaker: Gina Lanza, Northwestern Mutual, will discuss phases of small business financial development. www.inbaspokane.org

Second Tue

Sat 21

Inland NW LGBT Center Board Meeting

“Watershed Night” Fundraiser 6:00-7:30pm at Montvale Hotel benefitting Odyssey Youth Center, OutSpokane, INBA and Inland NW LGBT Center. Preceeding the k.d. lang’s performance at the Fox across the street, this fundraiser will include live auction, raffle, light hors d’oeuvres and cash bar. Free to those who purchased their tickets through the Watershed event committee, admittance for all other $10. For more info contact Sany Williams 509-3232306 or www.outspokane.com.

ISCS Board Meeting At Dempseys Brass Rail. 5:30pm Board Meeting, 6:30pm General Membership Meeting, 7:30pm By-Law Meeting

(Updated Jan 2009)

6pm – 8pm Please see website for location. Meetings of the board of the Inland Northwest LGBT Center are open to the public. www.thelgbtcenter.org

Third Tue OutSpokane Meeting (Updated Dec 2008)

7:15pm – 9:00pm Robert H Cooke Building, 503 East 2nd Avenue. Open meeting for planning and coordinating Pride and Fall into Pride events.

April

Third Mon

Wed 8

Pride Foundation Inland NW Steering Committee Meeting 7:30pm – 8:30pm (monthly) Courtyard Office Center - Conference Room, 827 W 1st Ave, Spokane WA.

INBA Luncheon (Unique monthly speakers) 11:30am – 1:00pm at Dempseys Brass Rail. This month’s guest speaker TBA. www.inbaspokane. org

www.qviewnorthwest.com | Q View Northwest - Spokane Edition | March 2009 | 21

Pacific Inland Northwest

Resources

SPOKANE AREA BiNet Spokane A social support group for bisexual men and women. Call: (509) 217-1271 Eastern Washington University (Updated Dec 2008) EAGLE Pride A group for LGBT men and women and their allies at Eastern Washington University. Weekly meetings: Thursday at 3:30pm at the Women’s and Gender Studies Lounge, 207 Monroe Hall Call: (509) 359-6429 EMCC – (Updated Oct 2008) Emmanuel Metropolitan Community Church Christian church with outreach to the GLBT community. Call: (509) 838-0085 Web site: www.emccspokane.org

Support services for LGBT community and individuals exploring their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Web site: www.thelgbtcenter.org Inland Northwest Men’s Experience (IN MX) (Updated Jan 2009) The Inland Northwest Men’s Experience (INMX for short) is a social group for young gay & bi men 18-29 in the Spokane and surrounding area. INMX provides weekly activities ranging from parties to camping trips to personal wellness discussions and service projects. 928 W Spofford, Spokane, WA 99201 Call: (509) 455-8993 ext 231 E-mail: SpokaneINMX@yahoo.com Web site: www.myspace.com/theinmx Integrity Gay and lesbian Episcopalians meet monthly for communion and simple meal. Call: Chuck: (509) 326-7707 or Ann: (509) 624-6671

Friends of SAN Fundraising organization for people living with HIV/ AIDS to improve the quality of their lives. Write: 1212 E. Front Ave. Spokane, WA 99202

Lutheran Communtiy ServicesSafeT Response Center Call: (509) 747-8224 Crisis line (509) 624-7273

Gay/Lesbian Info Line Call: (509) 489-2266 Immediate Crisis: (509) 838-4428

Odyssey Youth Center Our mission is to work with lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth and their allies to provide a safe place, education and advocacy to promote positive growth and self empowerment. 1121 S Perry, Spokane WA 99202 Call: (509) 325-3637 Web site: www.odysseyyouth.org

GLBT Book Group (Updated Oct 2008) Discusses selected works at Auntie’s Bookstore at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday each month. Call: (509) 838-0206 Web site: www.auntiesbooks.com/ Gonzaga University GLBT Resource Center For information and to contact resource organizations on the GU campus, September-May. HERO (Helping Educate Regarding Orientation) gay-straight alliance. SODA (Sexual Orientation Diversity Alliance) law school support group. Call: (509) 323-5847 Hospice of Spokane Physical, emotional and spiritual care for the terminally ill and loved ones; bereavement support and HIV/AIDS counseling services. Call: (509) 456-0438 ISCS – (Updated Nov 2008) Imperial Sovereign Court of Spokane The Imperial Sovereign Court of Spokane (ISCS) and Eastern Washington is a licensed non-profit and the oldest organization of its kind in the Spokane area to provide support for the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning communities of Eastern Washington. PO Box 65, Spokane, WA 99210-0065 Web site: www.easternwashingtoncourt.com INBA – Inland Northwest Business Alliance A Professional GLBTQ/Allied Business Alliance. Monthly luncheon meetings and annual community resource directory. PO Box 20163, Spokane, WA 99204 Voice mail: (509) 455-3699 E-mail: info@inbaspokane.org Web site: www.inbaspokane.org Inland Northwest LGBT Center

OutSpokane Committee organizes annual Pride march and celebration and other community events. Web site: www.OutSpokane.com Papillon Social support group for the transgender community. Call: (509) 292-8852 PFLAG - Spokane – Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians and Gays Support group for parents, family, friends and members of the GLBT community. Call: (509): 624-6671 Web site: www.pflagspokane.org PJALS – (Updated Oct 2008) Peace and Justice Action League of Spokane Independent, membership organization building foundations for a just and nonviolent world. Call: (509) 838-7870 Web site: www.pjals.net Planned Parenthood of The Inland Northwest HIV antibody testing and counseling. Call: Clinic for Appt.: (800) 788-9128 Administration: (509) 326-6292 Pride Foundation/Inland Northwest The Pride Foundation connects, inspires and strengthens the Pacific Northwest GLBTQ community in pursuit of equality by awarding grants and scholarships and cultivating leaders. Call: Spokane office (509) 327-8377 or (888) 575-7717

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E-mail: outreach@pridefoundation.org Website: www.pridefoundation.org Ryan White CARE Consortium HIV care education and planning group. Call: (509) 444-8200 SAN – (Updated Oct 2008) Spokane AIDS Network 905 S Monroe St, Spokane, WA Call: (509) 455-8993 Web site: www.san-nw.org Spokane County Domestic Violence Consortium A private, nonprofit organization with members from a variety of professions who have come together to end intimate partner violence. Call: (509) 487-6783 Spokane Falls Community College - The Alliance GLBT and allies group to provide a safe space; to educate our community. Call: (509) 533-4507 Spokane Human Rights Commission Call: Equity Office: (509) 625-6263 Spokane Regional Health District (Updated Oct 2008)

Providing health services and referrals for the public. HIV testing. Call: (509) 324-1542 or 1-800-456-3236 Web site: www.srhd.org/ Unitarian Universalist Church of Spokane (Updated Feb 2009)

A GLBT Welcoming Congregation Sunday Worship Services at 9:15 and 11:00 a.m. Please call for summer worship times. 4340 W Ft Wright Dr, Spokane WA 99224 Call: (509) 325-6383 Web site: www.uuspokane.org Westminster Congregational UCC (Updated Oct 2008)

An Open and Affirming Congregation of faith in downtown Spokane. Informal worship at 8:30am, traditional worship at 10:30am. 411 S Washington St, Spokane, WA Call: (509) 624-1366 Web site: http://wcunited.qwestoffice.net/ Write: P.O. Box 4795,IDAHO Spokane, WA 99202 Idaho for Basic Rights Citizen action group to work for civil and legal equality on basis of sexual orientation. Call: (208) 343-7402 NIAC – (Updated Oct 2008) North Idaho AIDS Coalition HIV/AIDS prevention, education and assistance for people infected with, affected by HIV. 410 Sherman Avenue Suite 215, Coeur d’Alene, ID Call: (208) 665-1448 or (866) 609-1774 Web site: www.northidahoaidscoalition.org NIGMA North Idaho Gay Men’s Association Creating community by providing real time social activities for gay men in the Moscow/Pullman area,

visitors, and allies. E-mail: NIGMA@yahoogroups.com Panhandle Health District STD/HIV testing, condoms, and other methods of birth control, physical exams, shots, cancer screening, resource nurse voucher program, referrals to area resources and education. All services are confidential. • Kootenai County Call: (208) 667-3481 • Boundary County Call: (208) 267-5558 • Shoshone County Call: (208) 786-7474 • Bonner County Call: (208) 263-5159 • Benewah County Call: (208) 245-4556 PFLAG - Sandpoint Support, education and advocacy group for Sandpoint gay people, parents, family and friends. Call: (208) 263-6699 Planned Parenthood of The Inland Northwest HIV antibody testing and counseling. Call: Clinic for Appt.: (800) 788-9128 Administration: (509) 326-6292

LEWISTON/CLARKSTON PFLAG - Lewis-Clark Support, education and advocacy group for Lewis-Clark gay people, parents, family and friends. Meets in Lewiston. Call: (509) 758-6437

MOSES LAKE AACW – Alternative Alliance of Central Washington A social and support group to help bring together people in the GLBT community. Write: P.O. Box 1282, Moses Lake, WA 98837

PULLMAN/MOSCOW Associated Students of (Updated Oct 2008) Washington State University GLBTA Socializing and educational outreach for WSU students. Call: (509) 335-4311 E-mail: glbta.aswsu@wsu.edu Web site: http://glbta.wsu.edu Inland Oasis (Updated Dec 2008) Inland Oasis organizes many social events on the Palouse including such as Palouse Pride and Community Thanksgiving. Inland Oasis provides free HIV testing on a regular basis, and is working to form a community center in Moscow’s 1912 Center. 1912 Center: Friendship Hall, 412 East 3rd Street Moscow, ID 83843 E-mail: Info@InlandOasis.org Web site: www.inlandoasis.org Out There (Updated Oct 2008) Sponsored by Whitman County Health and WSU, Out There is a social and educational program for college-aged men who have sex with men. Call: (509) 335-6428 Planned Parenthood of The Inland Northwest HIV antibody testing and counseling. Call: Clinic for Appt.: (800) 788-9128 Administration: (509) 326-6292 University of Idaho Gay-Straight Alliance Promoting a fabulous, positive and inclusive environment for all people on campus and encouraging individual growth and understanding by developing

outreach programs, improving visibility and recognition of queer issues and history. Call: (208) 885-2691 Washington State University (Updated Oct 2008) Gender Identity/Expression and Sexual Orientation Resource Center Provides education, advocacy, and support for the WSU community. Call: (509)335-6388 E-mail: giesorc@wsu.edu Web site: www.thecenter.wsu.edu

TRI-CITIES Benton-Franklin District Health Department Confidential and anonymous HIV testing, case management, educational and referral services. Call: (Pasco) (509) 547-9737, ext. 234 Confidential voice mail also. River of Life (Updated Oct 2008) Metropolitan Community Church Christian church celebrating diversity and affirming GLBTQ people. Sunday services at 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. 2625 W Bruneau Pl, Kennewick, WA Call: (509) 628-4047 E-mail: info@riveroflifemcc.org Web site: www.riveroflifemcc.org Tri-Cities Chaplaincy/ Tri-Cities CARES Columbia AIDS relief, education and support. Survivor support group and HIV/PWA support group. Call: (509) 783-7416

WALLA WALLA Blue Mountain Heart to Heart AIDS prevention education, support and services. Call: (509) 529-4744 Toll Free: (888) 875-2233 (pin #4744) Spanish: (509) 529-2174 PFLAG – Walla Walla Support, education and advocacy group for parents, family, friends and members of the GLBTQ community. Call: (509) 529-5320 Write: 527 E. Oak Walla Walla, WA 99362-1248 E-mail: pflag_walla2wash@hotmail.com

WENATCHEE SHYNE (Added Jan 2009) An organization that strives to eliminate all forms of prejudice and discrimination by promoting awareness, education and self-empowerment through the use of the arts. Call: (509) 860-7354 1250 N Wenatchee Ave, Ste H-131, Wenatchee, WA 98801 Web site: www.hatefreeworld.org

YAKIMA PFLAG - Yakima/Yakima Valley Promotes the health and well-being of GLBT individuals, their families and friends. Call: (509) 576-9625 Rainbow Cathedral Metropolitan Community Church An MCC Seattle parish extension. Call: (509) 457-6454

MONTANA Flathead Valley Alliance (Updated Oct 2008) Northwest Montana information and referral services. PO Box 2815, Kalispell MT Call: (406) 758-6707 Web site: www.flatheadvalleyalliance.org Lesbian Avengers A direct action group focused on issues vital to lesbian survival and visibility. Call: (406) 523-6608 Pacific NW Gay Rodeo Association (Updated Oct 2008)

For people who enjoy the country & western lifestyle. 1012 Four Mile Road • St. Regis, MT Call: (206) 428-7104 E-mail: info@PNWGRA.org Web site: www.pacificnwgra.org PFLAG Billings Meets monthly Sept. - May. Call: (406) 255-7609 PRIDE Celebration Group in charge of annual Montana June PRIDE celebrations. Call: (406) 442-9322 Western Montana Gay & Lesbian Community Center (Updated Oct 2008) 127 North Higgins, Suite 202 Missoula, MT 59802 (406) 543-2224 E-mail: wmglcc@gaymontana.org Web: www.gaymontana.org

WASHINGTON Bi MEN Group Bi and bi-curious men and gay men who enjoy and support bisexual men. Web site: www.egroups.com/group/bi-men-west Equal Rights Washington Fighting for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. Call: (206) 324-2570 Web site: www.equalrightswashington.org GLSEN Washington State The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network E-mail: mail@glsenwa.org Web site: www.glsenwa.org Legal Marriage Alliance Working to achieve the right of same-sex couples to marry legally in Washington. Web site: www.lmaw.org PositiveVoice Washington Advocates for programs and services needed by people with HIV. Offers self-advocacy training. Call: (888) 704-0099 Washington State GSA Network The Washington State Gay-Straight Alliance Network is a youth-led organization created to help connect public and private GSA-based clubs and other community groups throughout Washington State. Call: (206) 330-2099 Web site: www.wagsa.org

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