SGN May 22, 2009 - Section 1

Issue 22 Volume 37

Celebrating 36 Years!

FRIDAY May 29, 2009 FREE! 25¢ in bookstores & news stands

pride calendar p. 3

bat n rouge p. 4 captain smartypants p. 24

Seattle Gay News SEATTLE’S LGBT NEWS & ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY

Darlene Nipper speaks Court OK's California's Prop 8; at Seattle POCAAN rally/protest march in Seattle

by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer

ence to the People of Color Against Aids Network (POCAAN) center on May 21. When Darlene Nipper speaks, Rev. Darlene Nipper, deputy executive director of the Nation- she is talking to you, not throwing al Gay and Lesbian Task Force, brought her nearly 20 years of see POCAAN page 6 management and advocacy experi-

Shaun Knittel

shaun Knittel

Rev. Darlene Nipper

by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer California’s Supreme Court upheld the state’s Gay marriage ban on May 26 in a 6 - 1 decision written by Chief Justice Ron George, leaving the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) citizens of California angry and activated. The California Supreme Court based its decision on three considerations: if the initiative was a constitutional amendment or revision, the validity of the initiative process itself, and if Proposition 8 itself is retroactive, applying to existing same-sex marriage. The court rejected arguments that the ban approved by Californians last fall was such a fundamental change in the California Constitution that it first needed the Legislature’s approval. In their 136-page majority ruling, the justices said it is not their job to address whether the ban is wise public policy, but to decide whether it is constitutionally valid, while “setting aside our own personal beliefs and values.” The 18,000 same-sex couples see prop 8 rally page 13

Prop 8 protesters at Cal Anderson Park

Operation Shine Seattle begins Pride weekend

shaun Knittel

the location of their first Shine – a grassroots, old-fashioned rally where homeless youth and their supporters meet. “This is my first time in Seattle,” Noble told SGN. “It is beautiful and everyone has been so nice.” The Seattle Shine began May 23 at Westlake Park, where Noble and other supporters formed up, eventually marching to Victor Steinbrueck Park. From 7-8 p.m., guest speakers from YouthCare, Seattle Office for Civil Rights, Social Justice Movement Advocates, and homeless youth spoke about issues facing the LGBT homeless youth demographic. Noble gives Seattle high accolades when it comes to caring for LGBT homeless youth. “Seattle is a prime example of a city that deals with youth in a positive manner. There are drop-in centers and they are doing well sustaining these kids,” Noble told SGN at the Shine last Saturday. “With enough funding and support, Seattle could (l to r) An LGBT homeless youth volunteer, Tomlin and Noble be a city that ends their homeless at the first Shine held at Westlake Center Saturday youth problem.” by Shaun Knittel According to Noble, as many out across America from downSGN Staff Writer town Seattle to raise awareness as 1.3 million homeless youth about the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, sleep outdoors at night, and over Early on the morning of May and Transgender (LGBT) home26, Chloe Noble, Nicole Tomlin, less youth. The four walkers chose Jill Hardman and Matt Rouse set Seattle as their starting point and see shine page 7

main events

by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer It’s that time of year again … or is it? Seattle Pride 2009 promises to be special – with the recent signing of the “everything but marriage” bill into law and the observance of the 40th anniversary since the Stonewall riots of 1969, Pride will be bursting at the seams

with good feelings galore. It’s time to celebrate, honey! Looking for a place to showcase your best drag or rainbow apparel? SGN has got you covered. Here is a roundup of the major events making up Pride weekend June 27-28. see pride WEEKEND page 14

I n F I n I t I o F tA c o m A At F I F e

4902 Pacific Hwy E. Fife, WA 98424

All new infiniti G37 sedAn *** available with intelligent All-wheel drive * also available with 0.9% financing

Trish Montoya 888-651-5880

www.infinitioftacoma.com * 0.9 % APR on credit approval through IFS.

2

Seattle Gay News

May 29, 2009

Celebrating 36 Years!

PRIDE EVENTS

CALENDAR compiled by Rick McKinnon SGN Staff Writer PRIDE IDOL AT R PLACE Preliminary competition on Tuesday, June 2, at 9:30 p.m., at R Place, 619 E. Pine St., leading to final event on June 23. Proceeds benefit Seattle Pride®. www.SeattlePrideIdol.com. CENTRALIA COLLEGE GSA SPONSORS 3RD ANNUAL PRIDE EVENT IN CENTRALIA On Friday, June 5, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. the Central College Gay-Straight Alliance hosts their 3rd annual GLBTQ Pride Event at Centralia College, 600 Centralia College Blvd., Centralia, WA. Adrian Ryan, The Royal Knights and various entertainers from the community will attend. For more information, email centraliacollegegsa@ gmail.com. VOICES RISING PRESENTS HIP HOP, SPOKEN WORD, BREAKIN’ AND DRAG PERFORMANCE AT RICHARD HUGO HOUSE On Saturday, June 6, join Voices Rising, Seattle’s only showcase dedicated solely to LGBTQ artists of color, for a celebration of pride: from hiphop to the Harlem Renaissance and beyond. Performers include Mami Watu, Emiko Sugiyama, THEESatisfaction, Dakota Camacho, Mikeya Jackson-Harper, Landon Longhill, Crystal Ybarra and Storme Webber. The event will be held at Richard Hugo House, 1634 11th Ave., doors at 7 p.m. Tickets” $10-$25 sliding scale. For more information, visit www. myspace.com/voicesrising. Advance tickets will be available at brownpapertickets.com. “STRIKE OUT WITH PRIDE” BOWLING TOURNAMENT AND UNLIMITED BILLIARDS On Sunday, June 7, from 7-11 p.m., at ACME Bowl, 100 Andover Park W., Tukwila, join Seattle Pride ’09 at the private and super comfy Seven10 bowling lounge at ACME Bowl. This ultra-modern, swanky lounge will provide Seattle Pride bowlers with an intimate, upscale bowling experience. Enjoy food and beverage from the ACME Bowl restaurant and lounge on comfortable couches and view 150” projection screens at the end of each pair of lanes. Also enjoy unlimited billiards. Tickets: $30 includes open bowling, shoes, Seattle Pride T-Shirt, goodies and an opportunity to enter Seattle Pride’s first progressive raffle for a chance to win international airfare, hotel accommodations, gift certificates, etc. www. brownpapertickets.com/event/69091. PRIDE IDOL AT R PLACE Preliminary competition on Tuesday, June 9, at 9:30 p.m., at R Place, 619 E. Pine St., leading to final event on June 23. Proceeds benefit Seattle Pride®. www.SeattlePrideIdol.com. STAND UP WITH PRIDE COMEDY FEST On Thursday, Friday & Saturday, June 11, 12 & 13, enjoy the “Stand Up With Pride” Comedy Fest at the Parlor Live Comedy Club, Lincoln Square. 3rd Floor, 700 Bellevue Way NE, Bellevue. The Gay Stand Up Tour features Jason Dudley, Jen Kober and ANT. Thursday show at 7 p.m., Friday & Saturday at 7 p.m. & 9:30 p.m. Tickets: $25, $20 & $15. Enter the word “PRIDE” for 20% off tickets. www.parlorlive.com. An official Seattle Pride ’09 special event. UNCORKED! – A FABULOUS WINE TASTING HOSTED BY GAY CITY On Friday, June 12, Gay City presents their 4th annual wine tasting extravaganza featuring the wines of the Click Wine Group. This year’s focus will be on the

wines of Italy accompanied by fine Italian comestibles at the Steve Jensen Studio, 1424 10th Ave. Doors at 5:30 p.m., tasting begins at 6 p.m. Tickets: $35 in advance; $40 at the door. For more information and to RSVP, visit www.gaycity.org. All proceeds benefit the programs and services at Gay City Health Project. BAT N’ ROUGE: DRAG QUEENS VS. THE DYKES – A SOFTBALL EXTRAVAGANZA On Saturday, June 13, from 5-8 p.m., at Cal Anderson Park/Bobby Morris Playfield, entrance off 11th Ave. north of E. Pine St., come cheer on the players, enjoy a softball game like no other and support the Capitol Hill Alano Club at this hilariously fun annual LGBT Pride event. $5 suggested donation. Bat N’ Rouge is a fundraising event for CHAC. CHAC is a non-profit group hosting nearly 60 twelve-step meeting each week. CHAC is now in its 27th year of service in providing the Seattle LGBT Community with recovery support for drug and alcohol addiction. For more information, visit www. chacseattle.org or call 206-860-9560. SEATTLE FRONTRUNNERS RUN AND WALK WITH PRIDE On Sunday, June 14, Seattle Frontrunners presents their 26th Annual Run and Walk With Pride featuring a fun 4K run, 10K run, or 4K walk at Seward Park, 5898 Lake Washington Blvd. S. Day of race registration opens at 8:30 a.m. and the Run and Walk begins at 10 a.m. All abilities are welcome. This USATF sanctioned event will feature Chip timing. There will be medals for overall winners and ribbons for gender and age division winners. All finishers will receive an event T-shirt and entry for fabulous raffle prizes. Fees are $20 for online registration; $25 day of race registration; $10 student/low income rate available. For more information and to pre-register for this event, visit www.seattlefrontrunners.org. Seattle Frontrunners is Seattle’s running and walking club for Gay men, Lesbians and friends. PRIDE IDOL AT R PLACE Preliminary competition (Wild Card Round) on Tuesday, June 16, at 9:30 p.m., at R Place, 619 E. Pine St., leading to final event on June 23. Proceeds benefit Seattle Pride®. www.SeattlePrideIdol.com “40 YEARS AFTER STONEWALL: UNFINISHED BUSINESS OF OUR MOVEMENT” – PRIDE AT WORK AFL-CIO On Wednesday, June 17, at 5:30 p.m., local LGBT activists will speak on Marriage Equality, LGBT Homelessness, LGBT Immigrants, Transgender Workers and ENDA, and "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," at a forum sponsored by Pride at Work AFL-CIO, at Labor Temple Hall 8, 2800 1st Ave. 206261-8110; OutFront.PrideAtWork@gmail. com.

Sisters accepting grant applications The Sisters have money to give away! The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, The Abbey of St. Joan are now accepting applications for the 2009 Charity Granting Cycle. For the last several years the Sisters have been giving out grants annually to nonprofit 501(c)3 organizations in Washington State. The organizations who have qualified for grants in the past have all been supportive of our GLBTQ community is some way. Providing services for every type of need from HIV/AIDS services, STD prevention, GLBT veterans, youth support, rights to marry, and the list goes on and on. “Since our grant program was started, we’ve given away thousands and thousands of dollars to help support our community,” says Sister Dawnna Creation, Grants Chairnun. host bar and complimentary appetizers; VIP Party (limited availability) $50 includes 2 complimentary cocktails, appetizers and goodie swag bag. Purchase tickets from Brown Paper Tickets at http://tinyurl.com/ pbmufy. www.brownpapertickets.com/ events/67814. “WHAT RIGHT WITH GAYS THESE DAYS??” On Sunday, June 21, at 1 p.m., Gay City Health Project and Three Dollar Bill Cinema present What’s Right with Gays these Days??, a GCTV Short Film by Lonnie Tristan Renteria, at Northwest Film Forum, 1515 12th Ave. “We hear a lot about the challenges facing our community, and the problems that many Gay men face. But sometimes we dwell too much on the negative! This film and following discussion will look at the positive aspects of the Gay community and how we as Gay men make the world a better place, with a few laughs along the way!” FREE admission and free popcorn. www.gaycity.org; www.seattlequeerfilm.org. “FOR MY WIFE” SCREENING AND FUNDRAISER On Sunday, June 21, at 4 p.m., Northwest Film Forum, 1515 12th Ave., will be screening for my wife… (www.formywife. info), an award winning documentary film that humanizes the struggle for full LGBT marriage equality through the story of Kate Fleming & Charlene Strong. $10 admission. At 7 p.m., the Wildrose Tavern, 1021 E. Pike St., will be hosting a fundraising event in support of the documentary for my wife… Charlene Strong, who will be one of the Seattle Pride Parade’s Grand Marshalls this year, will be in attendance to perform with her new band, Velvet Fingers. Also on the bill will be Desperado with their tribute to Linda Ronstadt. $6 donation to the film at the door. If you attend the screening at the Northwest Film Forum, you will receive a wrist band that will get you into the fundraiser at the Wildrose Tavern for FREE.

LAUGH OUT LOUD COMEDY NIGHT FOR SAFE SCHOOLS COALITION “AN EVENING OF PRIDE” On Tuesday, June 23, the Safe Schools AT HALF PRICE BOOKS Coalition presents “Laugh OUT Loud,” a HONORING 40 YRS night of comedy to benefit the Safe Schools SINCE STONEWALL! On Friday, June 19, from 6-9 p.m., Half Coalition. The event will be held at the Price Books on Capitol Hill, 115 Belmont Comedy Underground, 109 S. Washington Ave. E., welcomes a selection of honored St., doors at 7:30 p.m., show from 8:30guest speakers providing a unique perspec- 10:30 p.m. This event is “all-ages,” meantive on the LGBT experience since Stonewall. FREE. Sponsored by Half Price Books and Seattle Out and Proud.

In order to apply to receive funds, please go to The Sisters website at www.theabbey. org. There you will find the link in the lower right corner, “Sisters Charity Grant Fund”. By following that link you will find the application for download and printing plus instructions on filling it out so that you give us the information we are looking for. Hurry, because all applications must reach The Abbey no later than June 19, 2009 to be considered. This will give us enough time to review each one carefully before we distribute the money at our Anniversary Party set for July 18, 2009. Stay tuned for location and time. Courtesy of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, The Abbey of St. Joan ing that alcohol is served, everyone is carded and only adults may purchase or drink alcohol. That does NOT mean the comedy is necessarily without profanity. Non-profit Comedy, the group of volunteer comedians who provide the show, says, “Thoughtful, political-ish comedy can still be foulmouthed and potentially offensive.” Parents/guardians should use their own judgment. Tickets: $10 general advance, $12 at door; $5 youth advance, $6 at door. www. safeschoolscoalition.org. PRIDE IDOL AT R PLACE Pride Idol Finals competition on Tuesday, June 23, at 9:30 p.m., at R Place, 619 E. Pine St. Proceeds benefit Seattle Pride®. www.SeattlePrideIdol.com 2ND ANNUAL PRIDEFEAST BENEFIT FOR PRIDE FEST On Friday, June 26, eat at participating PrideFeast restaurants and a portion of your purchase will benefit The Pride Project (sponsoring organizing of entertainment and beer garden at Pride Fest at Seattle Center following the Pride Parade), Gay City Health Project, and Seattle Counseling Service. Visit www.pridefeast.com for details and participating restaurants. DUNSHEE HOUSE HOSTS 3RD ANNUAL PRIDE BARBECUE On Friday, June 26, beginning at 5 p.m., Dunshee House, 303 17th Ave. E. (at E. Thomas St.), invites you to join them for their 3rd Annual Pride Barbecue. There will be lots of burgers, hot dogs, salads and beverages for your enjoyment in addition to live music from special guests and a fabulous raffle. The cost is a $10 suggested donation and $20 with your choice of bottomless beers on tap. All proceeds benefit Dunshee House. www.dunsheehouse.org; 206-322-2584. PRIDE SHABBAT 2009 On Friday, June 26, join the greater Seattle Jewish Community for Pride Shabbat 2009. The family-friendly service will be held at Congregation Kol HaNeshamah at Alki UCC, 6115 SW Hinds St., starting at 6 p.m., followed by an oneg reception (dietary laws observed). Pride Shabbat is a project of Bashert, the LGBTQ initiative of the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle and their generous co-sponsors. For more information or to become an event co-sponsor, see pride events page 16

DIFFA’S 4TH ANNUAL OUT OF THE CLOSET FASHION EVENT On Saturday, June 20, join the Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS (DIFFA/Seattle), at W Seattle, 1112 4th Ave., for a great evening of hot men’s and women’s fashions, cool cocktails, music and a rousing celebration of diversity. Doors at 7 p.m., show at 8-10 p.m. Tickets: $20 includes no

Visit us online www.sgn.org

May 29, 2009

Seattle Gay News

3

Seattle Gay News FOUNDED 1973

1605 12th Ave., Ste. 31 Seattle, WA 98122

Phone: (206) 324-4297 Fax: (206) 322-7188

MEMBER

e-mail: sgn2@sgn.org internet: www.sgn.org

2008

Deadlines Classifieds - Thursday at noon Calendar - Tuesday 6pm Display Ads: Space Reservation - Monday 5pm Ad copy (non-camera ready) - Tues. 5pm Ad copy (camera ready) - Wed. 5pm Letters to the Editor - Tuesday 5pm Obituaries - Call the SGN office All others - Tuesday 5pm

Editor In Chief George Bakan Associate Editor Tom Flint (retired) Editorial Assistant Nick Ardizzone Production William Creswell Calender Editors Mike Andrew and Rick McKinnon Travel Editor George Bakan Advertising Manager Marty Weisbrod Advertising Department Maggie Bloodstone Executive Assistant Mike Andrew Staff Writers George Bakan, Albert S. Rodriguez, Rajket Dirzhud-Rashid, Nick Ardizzone, Shaun Knittel Miryam Gordon, Tim Peter Contributing Writers

Rev. Barbara Allen, Mike Andrew, Eric Andrews-Katz, Madelyn Arnold, Maggie Bloodstone, Beau Burriola, Jessica Davis, Ron Anders, Jessica Price, Milton W. Hamlin, Nevin Jefferson, Keen News Service, Jason A. Miller, Liz Meyer, Rod Parke, Don Paulson, Scott Rice, Leslie Robinson, Richard Kennedy, Romeo San Vicente, Rex Wockner

Bat N’ Rouge returns to Cal Anderson Park by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer Bat N’ Rouge, the official Seattle Gay Pride kick-off event, returns to Cal Anderson Park June 13 from 5-8 p.m. For over 10 years, the Capitol Hill Alano Club (CHAC) has hosted the softball extravaganza. If you’ve never been to a Bat N’ Rouge game – say, the Drag Queens vs. the Dykes – you are in for something different: a softball game gone very, very wrong that feels oh-so-right. This year, Sen. Ed Murray (D-WA) is the dignitary to throw the first pitch. Then all hell breaks loose. The rules are simple, said Publicity Coordinator Jim Davidson; there

Classifieds Mike Andrew and Rick McKinnon Photographers Nick Ardizzone, Joseph P. Herron, Rajket Dirzhud-Rashid National Advertising Rep. Rivendell Media (212) 242-6863 Website Designer Barry Thorsness/Digital Team Works

aren’t any. Teams and attendees can bribe the umpires for stunts to be performed by the teams individual players, buy runs and hits and innings, and the entire spectacle is professionally choreographed with music and traditional ball game sound effects, added Davidson. “This year, Bat N’ Rouge XI will prove to be the biggest and best ever,” Davidson told SGN. “From humble beginnings 10 years ago, Bat N’ Rouge has grown significantly in size, scope and attendance.” Last year Davidson said the Lesbian players were forced to be “made-up” in drag make-up and made to run the bases in heels. The Drag Queens were stripped of their wigs – the ultimate insult – and made to sing songs. The softball extravaganza is helped along by dozens of volunteers and organizations that sponsor the event. This year the Rainbow City Band, a marching band in full regalia, will perform during the event. There will be a traditional concession with a full hot dog stand with sodas and other treats. The Knights of Malta will perform a flag ceremony during the game opening and “Super Hunk Roscoe” will perform the

national anthem. The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence and Rat City Roller Girls will participate, as well. An introduction is planned for 2009 Gay Pride Parade Grand Marshall George Bakan, Seattle Gay News publisher and longtime activist. Davidson said he can’t emphasize just how much fun the event is, as well as the importance of the mission that CHAC serves for the LGBT community. Bat N’ Rouge is one of the main fundraisers for CHAC, a non-profit organization hosting nearly 60 12-step meetings each week. CHAC is now in its 27th year of service in providing the Seattle LGBT community with recovery support for drug and alcohol addiction. Officially founded in 1982, CHAC provides meeting space for a variety of 12-step programs. Though founded and supported by the LGBT community, CHAC welcomes all people seeking recovery. The meetings include Al-Anon, Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Crystal Meth Anonymous, Sex Addicts Anonymous, and other addiction and recovery groups as well as the Seattle Spanish-speaking chapter of AA, “La Esperanza.” The Capitol Hill Alano club is funded entirely through donations, fundraisers and individual membership. CHAC is managed by volunteer contributions and time, service and talents and is located at 1900 East Madison. For more information about Bat N’ Rouge and CHAC, visit www.chacseattle. org.

Versatile Painting Company

Seattle Gay News is published weekly by JT&A, Inc. © 2008, JT&A, Inc., all rights reserved. Reprints by permission.

Publication of names, photographs or likenesses of any person, organization, event or business in this publication cannot be taken as any indication of the sexual orientation of the person, organization, event or business. Opinions expressed in bylined articles, columns, and letters are those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the staff or management of this paper. Seattle Gay News welcomes unsolicited material, including letters to the editor, but reserves the right to edit or reject material. All rights revert to authors upon publication. We assume no liability for loss or damage of materials, solicited or not. We invite feedback, please write. And please play safe. It is our policy that no money shall be refunded if you choose to cancel your subscription or ad. However, credit towards any size ad will be given for the balance owed. No exceptions.

The Best Prices in Greater Seattle!

151 3rd Street, Downtown Kirkland Open daily 10-5:30, Sun 12-5

(425) 827-7443

Interiors Exteriors

Faux finishes Murals

Over 22 years experience 206-755-5723 Visit our website at web.mac.com/tedobey

In Loving Memory Of Steve Foiles, Scott Roger Alpert, Cookie Andrews-Hunt, James Leland Moore, Randy Peters, Lee Richeson, Shaun Shelton, Jim Tully, James Arnold

4

Seattle Gay News

May 29, 2009

Celebrating 36 Years!

cruiting volunteer attorneys to meet with clients in 30-minute sessions. They are looking for attorneys who will commit to volunteer at the clinic twice over the course of six months. Volunteer attorneys are required to compiled by Rick McKinnon attend an upcoming CLE titled “GLBT Law SGN Staff Writer from A to Z” that will cover several broad topics of concern to the LGBT community. The CLE will take place Friday, June 5. The live piano, performances, schmoozing and CLE is approved for 4.25 general and 1.5 NATIONAL GAY & LESBIAN a chance to win a fantastic gift basket. Pro- ethics credits. For more information and to CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HOLDS SIXTH ANNUAL BUSINESS ceeds from this event will go towards The sign-up, visit www.q-law.org. Sisters’ International Conclave Fund – a & LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE, GLSEN/WA PRESENTS conference this July bringing Sisters from “OUT FOR BUSINESS,” 5TH ANNUAL GSA AWARDS around the world to Seattle to learn and IN SEATTLE MAY 28-30 On Friday, June 5, join GLSEN/WA (the The NGLCC will hold their sixth annual share ideas that will make for stronger comBusiness & Leadership Conference, “Out munities wherever The Sisters of Perpetual Washington state chapter of the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network) for for Business,” May 28-30, at the Renais- Indulgence call home. www.theabbey.org. their 5th Annual GSA (Gay/Straight Allisance Seattle Hotel. The three-day event ance) Awards. The evening will be held at BARTELL DRUGS AND includes a series of business symposia, keythe Bush School, 3400 E. Harrison St., startNORTHWEST HARVEST note speakers, panel discussions and special ing with a reception at 6 p.m. The awards ORGANIZE events designed to educate and connect atceremony follows at 7 p.m. Enjoy hors “STOCK THE PANTRY” tendees. Various tracks of programming are d’oeuvres, good conversation, live enterFOOD DRIVE – JUNE 1-14 designed to meet the interests and needs of From June 1 to June 14, all 55 Bartell tainment, silent auction and an inspiring LGBT business owners and entrepreneurs, allied companies and NGLCC affiliate Drugs locations in King, Pierce and Sno- and heart-warming awards ceremony. Celchambers from around the country. The Out homish County will be accepting nonperish- ebrate the courageous youth and allies who for Business Conference also connects local able food donations for Northwest Harvest. seek to end anti-LGBT bullying and harassment in Washington’s K-12 schools. These and national LGBT businesses with NGL- www.bartelldrugs.com. kids are doing incredible work in our state CC’s corporate partners for contracting opto support each other, raise consciousness DUNSHEE HOUSE portunities. For a complete list visit www. and fight bigotry in their schools! Tickets GAY & LESBIAN BOOK CLUB nglcc.org/corporate/partners. For complete Come discuss the best of Gay and Les- are $25-general; $10-students and can be information and to register for the conferbian novels at the new Seattle Gay and Les- purchased in advance at 1-800-838-3006 ence, visit www.nglcc.org/Seattle2009. bian Book Club. Join other book-lovers on or online at www.brownpapertickets.com/ a drop-in basis every Wednesday at 6 p.m. event/58138. For more information and MISS ECSA PAGEANT On Friday, May 29, the Emerald City at Dunshee House, 303 17th Ave. E. Come to support the work of GLSEN/WA, visit Softball Association hosts the Miss ECSA only once or come every meeting. Each www.glsenwa.org, email mail@glsenwa. Pageant, doors at 6 p.m., contest from 6-9 month a different title will be discussed. org or call 206-330-2099. The title for June is Fun Home by Alison p.m., at R Place, 619 E. Pine St. LIFELONG AIDS ALLIANCE Bechdel. For more information, call 206CARE TO SHOP FOOD DRIVE 322-2437; nickdimartin@earthlink.net. CAPTAIN SMARTYPANTS Chicken Soup Brigade, Lifelong AIDS PRESENTS AIR SMARTY Alliance’s food program, sponsors an onGAY CITY HOSTS CONCERTS IN COLUMBIA CITY NEW VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION going food drive program to provide bags of When a luxury airliner nosedives in the On Wednesday, June 3, at 6:30 p.m., hosts groceries to people living with HIV/AIDS Pacific, the shipwrecked Air Smarty crew takes to the airwaves. Part Tempest, part an inaugural training to introduce Gay City’s in Seattle/King County. “Care to Shop” is Gilligan’s Island, part Lost, and part Ameri- programming and the principles which held between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the folcan Idol, this show demonstrates just how guide them. This is a mandatory training lowing stores: The first Saturday of the month at QFC, creative, and desperate, a group of nine sur- for all new volunteers, but all current volvivors can get. Air Smarty features songs by unteers are welcome to participate. Please 416 15th Ave. E., Seattle; the second SaturAnnie Lennox, a tribute to Gay and straight email chris@gaycity.org with questions and day of the month at QFC, 417 Broadway E. composers, and a medley of songs shown to sign-up. For information on the Gay City (Broadway Market), Seattle; and the third Saturday of the month at Thriftway, 9740 to drive people clinically insane. Peppered Health Project, visit www.gaycity.org. SW Bank Rd., Vashon Island. For more inwith commercials for new and cryptic formation, call 206-328-8979. ADRIENNE RICH TO SPEAK products, the evening features a parade of AT CENTRAL WA UNIVERSITY undaunted, unbalanced, and unearthly charSEATTLE REP HOSTS On Wednesday, June 3, internationally reacters who will keep you laughing. Joining GIANT COSTUME & PROP SALE Captain Smartypants on May 29, 30 and nowned poet and social critic Adrienne Rich On Saturday, June 6, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 31 is Waxie Moon, Seattle’s own gender- will be speaking at Central Washington bending boylesque sensation. On June 5, 6 University. Ms. Rich will give a rare public the Seattle Repertory Theatre opens their and 7, the bubbly, bawdy and brilliant local talk when she reads and comments on some costumes and props collection to the public singing legend Bobbi Kotula will join the of her recent poetry. The public talk will for sale for the second time in their history at Pants. Sensible Shoes, the small ensemble begin at 7 p.m. in McConnell Auditorium, the Bagley Wright Theatre, Seattle Center, of the Seattle Women’s Chorus, will per- followed by a reception and book signing at Mercer St. at Second Ave. N. The last time form a 10 to 15 minute curtain warmer at Gallery One. This is a ticketed event. Tick- was 1974. More than 300 costumes, accesSaturday and Sunday performances. The ets are free and available by contacting the sories and props from the past 36 seasons performances will be presented at the Co- Douglas Honors College at 509-963-1445 will be on sale – everything from Oberon’s cape from A Midsummer Night’s Dream to lumbia City Theater, 4918 Rainier Ave. S. or dhc@cwu.edu. Queen Elizabeth’s gown from The Bard of on May 29, 30 and June 5, 6 at 8 p.m., on Avon to dresses, suits, wigs and hats. Prices RADICAL WOMEN PRESENTS May 31 at 2 p.m., and on June 7 at 7 p.m. DOCUMENTARY ON EARLY DAYS range from $10-$1,000, and there are many Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the sizes available. In addition to the sale, a OF LGBT RIGHTS MOVEMENT door. 206-388-1400; www.flyinghouse.org. On Thursday, June 4, at 7:30 p.m., at New dozen of the most elaborate and intricate Captain Smartypants is a small ensemble of Freeway Hall, 5018 Rainier Ave. S., Radical show pieces will be part of a silent auction. the Seattle Men’s Chorus. Women presents Outrage ’69, a documen- Bidding will take place from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. tary that delves into the heady days of the Cash, check and credit cards accepted. All EMERALD CITY LGBT rights movement, beginning with proceeds will benefit the Seattle Rep. SOFTBALL ASSOCIATION the Stonewall rebellion, when bar patrons SPRING LEAGUE UNDERWAY CASCADE FLYERS The Open Division Spring League is un- fought back against police harassment, igHOST LUNCH MEETING derway every Sunday through June 21 (ex- niting the struggle for Queer liberation. A IN GEORGETOWN cept Memorial Day weekend) at the North dinner, with vegetarian option, will be availOn Saturday, June 6, the Cascade Flyers, SeaTac Park, S. 128th St. & 20th Ave. S., able at 6:30 p.m. for a $7.50 donation. For SeaTac, WA (C Division Teams) and Cel- more information, rides or childcare, call an LGBT Pilots and Aviation Enthusiasts ebration Park, 11th Pl. S. & S. 324th St. 206-722-6057 or 206-722-2453. All wel- Group of the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia, will be hosting a lunch meeting (1111 S. 324th St.), Federal Way (A, B & come. Wheelchair accessible. at noon at the Hangar Café, 6261 13th Ave. D Division Teams). (Check website for posS., near Boeing Field. For more informaQ-LAW FOUNDATION sible rainout announcements and Saturday SEEKS VOLUNTEER ATTORNEYS tion, visit www.cascadeflyers.org or email rainout day schedules.) Both fields are accascadeflyers@cascadeflyers.org. FOR GLBT LEGAL CLINIC; cessible by public transit. For further inforSPONSORS GLBT LAW CLE mation, including teams, league sponsors MAJESTICS FINAL HOME GAME On Friday, June 5, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 and schedule of play, visit www.emeraldciOn Saturday, June 6, at 7 p.m., catch the p.m., the Q-Law Foundation of Washington, tysoftball.org. in cooperation with the King County Bar Seattle Majestics women’s football team in Association Neighborhood Legal Clinics action at the final home game of the 2009 VIXXXEN’S LOUNGE – and Equal Rights Washington, are excited to regular season. Standing at a strong 6-0 reLOUNGING WITH THE SISTERS – announce the addition of a new legal clinic cord this season, the Majestics rank third in VOLUME II AT designed to address the unique and com- the IWFL Western Conference. Pending late MARTINS OFF MADISON On Sunday, May 31, from 5-8 p.m., join plex legal needs of the LGBT community season victories, the team is teetering on an The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Ab- in King County. The clinic will be open one away playoff game, most likely to the LA Amazon team. Seattle faces the Portland bey of St. Joan, and friends, at Martins Off evening a month. The Q-Law Foundation is currently re- Shockwave at French Field, Kent MeridMadison, 1413 14th Ave., for an evening of

NORTHWEST

NEWS

Visit us online www.sgn.org

May 29, 2009

ian High School, 10020 SE 256th St., Kent. Tickets: $12-adults, $10-student/senior, military (with ID), $5-youth. www.theseattlemajestics.com/store or at the gate day of game. IMPERIAL VOTING DAY & IMPERIAL PRINCE & PRINCESS BALL On Sunday, June 7, from 12-6 p.m., in the lobby entrance to the Richmark Building, 12th Ave. & E. Pine St. next to the liquor store, the Imperial Sovereign Court of Seattle and the Olympic & Rainier Empire will hold elections to select their new Imperial Prince and Princess. All King County residents (ID required) are invited and encouraged to participate in this election. On Sunday, June 13, the LGBT community is invited to the 2009 Imperial Prince and Princess Ball, which will be held at Russian Hall, 704 19th Ave. E., door at 6 p.m., pageant at 7 p.m. Tickets: $20 at the door. www. imperialcourtofseattle.com. MUFFIN TOPS VS. LAMBERT HOUSE – A SOFTBALL EXHIBITION GAME On Sunday, June 7, starting at 3:10 p.m., the Emerald City Softball Association’s Muffin Tops will take on youth, volunteers and staff from Lambert House, Seattle’s Center for LGBT youth, in an exhibition softball game. The game will be held at the North SeaTac Park at 13735 24th Ave. S., in SeaTac, WA. Spectators are encouraged to attend. All proceeds will benefit Lambert House youth programs. For more information, contact Kristina at Lambert House at 206-322-2515 or email Kristina@lamberthouse.org. www.seattlegaysoftball.com; www.lamberthouse.org. PACIFIC NW LESBIAN ARCHIVES SPONSORING WOMEN’S WEEKEND IN THE WOODS – JUNE 12-14 The gathering you’ve only dreamed about is happening! Join us for a relaxing weekend on Kitsap Peninsula this summer. Choose to sleep under the stars or in the cabins at Camp Indianola. Visit http://www.pnwlesbianarchives.org for all the details. When you are on the website, you may need to follow a few links in order to find pricing, registration, etc. If you know of any women who do not have internet access, but may be interested in attending, please spread the word and let them know how to get in touch with us. Pacific NW Lesbian Archives, PO Box 27671, Seattle, WA 98165; 206-654-4477. Please register by Saturday, May 30. SEATTLE MEN’S CHORUS UNPLUGGED CONCERTS WITH M-PACT AT MEANY Seattle Men’s Chorus presents an all a cappella concert at the UW’s Meany Hall for the Performing Arts on Friday and Saturday, June 19 and 20 at 8 p.m. and on Sunday, June 21 at 2 p.m. Joining the SMC at Meany Hall will be the vocally stunning a cappella sextet m-pact. Hear Sondheim and Schubert blend beautifully with Mendelssohn and Montoya. The repertoire for SMC Unplugged will cover lots of musical ground: from African anthems to barbershop, and beyond. m-pact’s pop-jazz vocals and unique sound make a perfect pairing of two extraordinary vocal groups appealing to anyone who loves music. The SMC will also present their concert sans m-pact on Saturday, June 13, at 7:30 p.m., at McIntyre Hall in Mount Vernon, WA. Tickets for Meany Hall performances are on sale at www.flyinghouse.org or 206-388-1400. Prices range from $20-$55. Tickets for the Mount Vernon concert are available at ticketing.mcintyrehall.org or 360-416-7727. AFSC SPEAKER’S BUREAU LOOKING FOR QUEER YOUTH The American Friends Service Committee’s speaker’s bureau, Out Spoken, is looking for Queer youth to interview about their life experiences and hopes for the future to expand and enrich their panel presentations. Participants will receive a gift card and much appreciation for helping out. Contact LT at ltan@AFSC.org for more information and to set up an interview.

Seattle Gay News

5

NEWS

Wisconsin Supremes to hear challenge to marriage ban Wisconsin’s Supreme Court will hear a challenge to the state’s three-year-old constitutional amendment that bans same-sex marriage. The case was filed by University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh teacher Bill McConkey, whose daughter is Gay. He claims the amendment passed by voters was improperly constructed because it dealt with more than one issue. The amendment both defined marriage as between a man and a woman and laid out certain rights of unmarried people.

by Rex Wockner SGN Contributing Writer online information about GLBT issues. Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools, Knox County Schools and as many as 105 other school districts in Tennessee use internet filtering software to block websites containing pro-GLBT speech, but not websites touting “reparative therapy” or “ex-Gay” ministries. The “LGBT” filter is not used to block pornography, which is filtered separately, but does block the sites of many GLBT organizations, including the Human Rights Campaign; the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network; and Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays. “Allowing access to websites that present one side of an issue while blocking sites that present the other side is illegal viewpoint discrimination,” said lead attorney Catherine Crump of the ACLU First Amendment Working Group. “This discriminatory censorship does nothing to make students safe from material that may actually be harmful, but only hurts them by making it impossible to access important educational material.” The ACLU learned about the filtering from Andrew Emitt, a Knoxville high school student who attempted to search for information on Gay scholarships.

Domestic partnership bill passes Nevada Legislature A domestic-partner bill has passed Nevada’s Legislature, but Gov. Jim Gibbons is expected to veto it. However, proponents may have enough votes in the Legislature to override a veto. The measure would extend nearly all state-level marriage rights and obligations to same- and opposite-sex partners. It also bans discrimination based on one’s domestic-partnership status, but says that employers can continue to discriminate in family health coverage. Activist Rodger McFarlane The Legislature also has passed a bill to commits suicide ban discrimination by public accommodaVeteran Gay activist Rodger McFarlane tions based on sexual orientation. Existing committed suicide in Truth or Consequenclaw bans such discrimination in employ- es, N.M., May 15. ment. An attempt to add “gender identity” An e-mail sent out by a group of his to the bill failed. friends said: “In a letter found with his remains, Rodger explained that he was unACLU sues in Tennessee over willing to allow compounding heart and school internet filters back problems to become even worse and The American Civil Liberties Union sued result in total debilitation. We know that two Tennessee school districts in federal Rodger was in a great deal of pain. Already court May 19, charging they are unconsti- disabled in his own mind, he could no lontutionally blocking students from accessing ger work out or do all the outdoor activities

6

Seattle Gay News

official photo

NATIONAL

May 29, 2009

Nevada Governor Jim Gibbons

he so loved. He was also now faced with the realization that he could literally not travel, making employment increasingly difficult.” In 1981, McFarlane set up the first AIDS hotline in the U.S., before AIDS had a name. He went on to head Gay Men’s Health Crisis, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, and the Gill Foundation. He also was a founding member of ACT UP/New York. McFarlane co-authored several books, including The Complete Bedside Companion: No-Nonsense Advice on Caring for the Seriously Ill and Larry Kramer’s The Tragedy of Today’s Gays. In 1993, he co-produced

the Pulitzer Prize-nominated production of Kramer’s The Destiny of Me. “Rodger approached every aspect of his life with boundless passion and vigor,” his friends said. “While many people go their entire lives wanting to be good at just one thing, Rodger excelled at virtually everything he did. Brilliant activist and strategist, decorated veteran, accomplished athlete, best-selling author, and humanitarian are just a few of the accolades that could be used to describe our friend.”

pocaan

“Other than our basic LGBT struggle, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force believes that racial and economic issues must also be addressed. How can we talk about Gay and Lesbian issues without addressing those other problems?” she asked. Nipper said she watched HIV/AIDS take away a whole community in the 1980s. She spoke of a time when a Gay club she went to was full of beautiful black men. Just a few years into the onset of the AIDS epidemic, all of the men died except for one, prompting him to close the club’s doors indefinitely. Her voice cracked a little as she looked out at the people of POCAAN and spoke. “They died. All those beautiful men are gone because of AIDS.” You could feel the pain in the room, the sadness of a generation nearly lost. “I tell that story to bring home the point of the importance of HIV/AIDS awareness and safe sex practice,” said Nipper. The Task Force executive said she is optimistic about President Obama; she’s met both Barack and Michelle. “Things have changed regardless of what you may be hearing,” Nipper reassured the president’s supporters. “The president and first lady mean to make the White House a welcoming place; they mean to do what they came there to do.” Nipper said she believes the president will help make positive changes for the LGBT community, but warned that the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force will be vigilant and apply pressure if they believe the needs of the community are being pushed aside by the administration. Nipper participated in a Q and A with the audience, answering questions about Task Force policy and where she and the Task Force stand on issues such as mental health, “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” and educating others on issues important for people of color. The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force is the oldest national LGBT civil rights and advocacy organization. They work to build the grassroots political strength of the community by training state and local activists and leaders and organizing broad-based campaigns to defeat anti-LGBT referenda and advance pro-LGBT legislations. “Everybody in a community needs to be addressed when you are working on legislation,” Nipper said. “Our aim is to have a transformed society where you can come without question or shame, where you can bring pride and dignity to your life.”

continued from cover words at you. You listen. You are entranced. She gets her point across firmly, yet gently. She is a storyteller with the best of them. The health advocate and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) activist spoke to POCAAN’s mostly African-American audience about what the Task Force is doing to help with issues that are important to people of color, but also warned of the dangers that come when LGBT people do not work as a collective “community.” “You do not have to look like me; I just want to find some people who think like me,” she said. “It takes all kinds of folks to get things done. We need people within our ranks as well as those outside our ranks – that includes our allies in the straight community,” she added. Nipper spoke a lot about multiple identities, saying there is more to us than simply being LGBT people. “We [the LGBT community] are faced with health care, single parenthood, immigration and employment issues,” she said.

With assistance from Bill Kelley

Celebrating 36 Years!

anonymous

Riot police break up an attempt to stage a Gay pride parade in Moscow on May 16

INTERNATIONAL

NEWS

Police smash Moscow pride for 4th year For the fourth year in a row, riot police broke up an attempt to stage a Gay pride parade in Moscow on May 16, arresting up to 80 participants, including local Gay leader Nikolai Alekseev, British Gay leader Peter Tatchell and Chicago Gay activist Andy Thayer. The city had again banned any public pride activities. Mayor Yuri Luzhkov has called Gay pride parades “satanic” and “weapons of mass destruction.” This year’s effort to march came just hours before the finals of the übercampy Eurovision Song Contest, held in Moscow this year because Russia won it last year. The competition has a huge Gay following across the Continent. Some of the people arrested, including Tatchell and Thayer, were seized in the middle of interviews with reporters. Cameramen were knocked around as police plowed through to get at various activists. Officers managed to tear off one activist’s shirt and bra. Alekseev was seized and held down by no fewer than five policemen. As he was being hauled off, Tatchell shouted, “This shows the Russian people are not free.” “The Russian government is using this year’s Eurovision in Moscow as a gala showpiece to show the world how far the country has improved since the early 1990s,” Alekseev said. “However, what was witnessed this afternoon on the streets of Moscow shows the world just how little Russia has traveled when it comes to supporting fundamental human rights. ... This episode has shamed the Russian government and Moscow authorities before the world.” Several cases stemming from the bans on previous Moscow pride parades are pending at the European Court of Human Rights, which has a huge backlog of cases from Russia. Meanwhile, the day after the pride debacle, a much-less-publicized march to mark the International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO) went off without a hitch. In an event called “Rainbow Flashmob,” about 35 people marched from the Bolshoi Theater to Pushkin Square, distributing antihomophobia leaflets and, at the end, releasing rainbow balloons. “Riot police observed the event and did not detain anybody,” said “Maxim G.” of the Russian LGBT Network. The network reported that similar events were staged in 40 Russian cities, with the largest in St. Petersburg, where 250 people participated. Asked why the pride parade was broken up by police but the Rainbow Flashmob wasn’t, chief pride organizer Nikolai Alekseev said: “If I go on the streets now with the balloons, no one will give a shit. As soon as it is not known to any media and police, and as soon as you don’t make an official request accord-

by Rex Wockner SGN Contributing Writer ing to the law for the demonstration, you can do what you want. No one cares, as it is not known in the society and in the media.”

march, was not disrupted. Gays march in Havana Hundreds of Gays marched in Havana on May 16 to mark the International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO). It was the first Gay march in Cuba’s history. They were led by Mariela Castro Espín, President Raúl Castro’s daughter, who heads the National Center for Sexual Education. Parliament President Ricardo Alarcón attended the beginning of the event and said the government should respect the rights of “people with another sexual orientation.” But he added, “We also have to respect the opinions, the points of view, including the prejudices, that other sectors of society have.” The march took the form of a conga line around two city blocks. Other IDAHO events included panel discussions and presentations of Gay-themed books, periodicals and audiovisual material. Castro Espín told the BBC: “I have my ups and my downs – moments when I think we’re moving quickly forward [on Gay equality] and others when I feel we’re going very slow. What we know is that we have to keep working.” “We have to do a lot more education,” she said. “There are people who are accepting

Ukrainian city bans pride festival The City Council and a court in Mykolaiv, Ukraine, banned the Gay “Rainbow Spring 2009” festival in mid-May. The cultural and sports festival was sponsored by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It was to have offered a photo exhibition, parties, dances, a soccer tournament, movies and a poetry evening, among other activities. At least some of the events went ahead as scheduled, though the May 16 poetry evening was aborted when about 40 rightwing extremists blocked the entrance to the House of Artists. Police were called, and the protesters left only after two Gay banners were removed from the building. The incident also led to the photo exhibition being shut down prematurely and the cancellation of a buffet dinner that was to accompany the poetry event. City officials said the ban was in accord with the “religious and ethical beliefs of all continued from cover residents of the city” and that Gay events would have a “negative impact on the moral and spiritual atmosphere of the city” and 400,000 of those youth are LGBT. could lead to “civic unrest” and “mass disTomlin, who is walking across America order and conflict.” with Noble, said LGBT homeless youth form communities after they find each other Baltic Pride in the different cities they pass through. succeeds in Riga “It’s a human characteristic to want to fit City officials in Riga, Latvia, granted in and be accepted,” said Tomlin. “For these permission for a Gay pride parade, then re- kids, they’ve found acceptance in the streets. scinded it, then were overruled by a court. We’ve found that they [LGBT homeless In the end, around 600 people from 20 youth] evolve into a subculture that many countries marched in the vicinity of Ver- people don’t know exists. If you’ve been mane Garden Park on May 16. hurt so bad by society, why rejoin it? They The Baltic Pride Parade moves each year feel the new group they belong to is better.” among Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. Noble says that educating parents is the The decision to withdraw approval for core cause. Most of these kids are on the the parade came after 34 members of the street because they’ve been kicked out of 60-member City Council called for the their house because they were LGBT or march to be banned. The council’s Commit- they ran away because they suffered verbal tee on Meetings and Demonstrations then and physical abuse due to their sexuality she determined that allowing the march to go added. ahead would imperil “the health and moral“The parents need to understand there is ity of society.” nothing wrong with their child and that with The Riga Administrative Court disagreed the right amount of nurturing and support and ordered that the parade be allowed. they can thrive,” said Noble. Attempts to ban Riga’s pride parade in With the Seattle Shine behind them, the previous years also failed after courts said the Latvian Constitution and the European Convention on Human Rights give Gay people the right to march.

shine

Anti-Gays attack police at Krakow pride parade Anti-Gay protesters attacked police at the Gay pride parade in Krakow, Poland, May 16. One person was injured and 20 counterdemonstrators were arrested. The anti-Gays threw eggs, bottles and chairs at the officers. The parade itself, the city’s fifth pride

Visit us online www.sgn.org

and others who are not, as can be seen in the letters that arrive at the Party Central Committee complaining about what we do. But a lot of congratulations arrive, as well.” Council of Europe supports IDAHO The Secretary General of the Council of Europe issued a strongly supportive statement in conjunction with the May 17 International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO). “Today, being a homosexual will no longer, at least not in a member state of the Council of Europe, result in being put in prison, but discrimination and homophobia still exist and not only on the margins of society,” wrote Terry Davis. “I condemn the homophobic violence perpetrated by skinheads, but it is heads of some political parties that I am really worried about. “It is unacceptable that some people in positions of official or moral authority in Europe still behave as if the European Convention on Human Rights does not apply to homosexuals,” Davis said. “People who discriminate often invoke morality to justify their attitude. They are making a relevant point, but they are getting it wrong. It is not the homosexuals who are immoral. It is the homophobes.” Singapore Gays stage first rally Singaporean Gays held their first-ever public rally May 16. Some 2,500 people took part in the event at “Speaker’s Corner,” a new free-speech zone in a local park. The zone allows residents of the tightly controlled island to speak out on various matters, but not on religion, language or race. Gay sex remains illegal in Singapore. Peru bans Gay cops Peru’s Interior Ministry announced May 13 that it is banning Gays from being police officers. It said cops who have sex with people of the same sex “cause scandal” and “denigrate” the police’s “image.” The ministry also said it will suspend officers who commit adultery. With assistance from Bill Kelley four set out Tuesday morning for Pride Walk 2009, where the four activists will be on foot six to nine hours a day, or 15 to 20 miles completed with 50lb. backpacks. They estimate Pride Walk 2009 to take six to nine months to complete. Their journey will take them to San Francisco, then east to Boston, Mass. New York, and then Washington D.C. From there they will move southwest to New Orleans, La. and end their journey in Austin, Tex. To view video footage of Pride Walk 2009 and the different Shine events online, visit www.youtube.com/user/operationshine.

t o H

Use this coupon for

MAMA’S $2.00 off any size pizza PIZZA

700 East Pine St. Seattle

The Best Piece In Town!

HOMEMADE HAND

FREE DELIVERY • 206-322-6444 May 29, 2009

Seattle Gay News

7

you’re going to miss the legroom in the back seat. It really is like a coupe. Okay, for an MSRP of $33,935, what do you get? The 2009 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV comes with a generous list of standard features, and popular upgrades are reasonably priced. Here’s a look at some of my favorites: Technical Features • 290-hp 3.5-liter DOHC 24-Valve V-6 engine • Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) • Front-engine, front-wheel drive • Dual chrome exhaust finishers • Four-wheel power-assisted ventilated brakes • Electronically controlled throttle • Front and rear stabilizer bars • Independent front strut suspension • Independent multi-link rear suspension • Vehicle speed-sensitive power steering • 18” wheels and tires • 20 gallon fuel tank capacity

2009 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV by J.T. Hills SGN Contributing Writer

as a “four-door sports car.” For 2009, Nissan has completely redesigned the Maxima with fresh styling, a new chassis, and upgraded interior features. The new Maxima Top is built on the new “D” platform, designed • Attractive, aggressive design to enhance body rigidity and minimize • Handling torque steer. The wheelbase is shorter than • Entry-level model is well equipped the previous generation, providing it with a more aggressive stance. It also features Bottom a 3.5-liter 290-hp V6 engine teamed with • Information display is dated Nissan’s Xtronic CVT (Continuously Vari• Miss the rear-seat legroom able Transmission). After spending a week of the previous generation with the 2009 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV, I’ve • Requires premium fuel assimilated, corrugated, encapsulated, conThe Maxima, Nissan’s flagship sedan, jugated, and insinuated my own observafirst was introduced for the 1981 model year tions, and here they are: as a rear-wheel-drive sedan, and in 1984 Evidently the four-door coupe car is the received a V6 engine for the first time. The second-generation Maxima switched to a new black How can a four-door be a coupe? The defront-wheel-drive configuration, and has been referred to over the years by Nissan sign trend started with the Mercedes Benz CLS, and then the Volkswagen CC, and now the newly redesigned Nissan Maxima. Even if “four-door” and “coupe” seem to be contradictory terms, the design outcome is beautiful. The previous generation Maxima Servicing was awkward. The size was great, but the all brands, design had some weird angles, and who MMI & Factory wants a two-piece narrow sunroof down the trained techs middle of your car that doesn’t open? The week before Memorial Day I had p. 206-244-4111 to head out of town for work and a much20+ years experience needed three-day weekend, the perfect opf. 206-244-4110 10840 Myers Way S, Seattle, WA 98168 portunity to take the Maxima on a little road trip. The first thing that I noticed as I headed southendmotorcycle.com

jim’s southend

motorcycle

8

Seattle Gay News

May 29, 2009

out on I-90 over the pass was that keeping the Maxima at a consistent speed without the use of cruise control seemed to be a chore, and it seemed to error on a downward drift. I’m assuming it was to be blamed on the CVT transmission. It works great and seamlessly when you’re accelerating or driving more aggressively, but when you’re trying to avoid a ticket on the first big holiday weekend of the year, it just seemed like a bad choice. I had the opportunity to take it up on an extremely windy mountain pass near the Canadian boarder in North Eastern Washington. With 15-mph corners, it’s a really fun pass to drive, and it’s pretty. The Maxima handled well, had plenty of power with the 290-hp V6, but what I really wanted was a six-speed manual transmission. It just seemed like it would better complete the “four-door sports car” picture Nissan is trying to paint. The interior of the new Maxima is richly finished and detailed. The front seats were well supported and comfortable after hours on the road. The Maxima also has a generous list of standard features, like the ninespeaker Bose audio system, moonroof, and dual climate zones. The trip computer was a nice addition, too. There were a couple of things I didn’t “get,” though, like an amazing sound system and no satellite radio. Also, the font and color of the font on the information display was right out of the movie Tron. There’s nothing consistent about the design progression of the Maxima since 1981 except for the information display. Lastly, if you’re a die-hard Maxima owner,

Safety Features • Driver and front passenger dual stage airbags • Driver and front passenger side airbags • Side curtain airbags • Four-wheel anti-locking braking system • Tire pressure monitoring system • Fog lamps Interior Features • Leather seating surfaces with heated front seats • Eight-way power driver’s seat, four-way power front passenger seat • Proximity entry w/ push-button start • Leather wrapped steering wheel with audio controls • Satin chrome finishes • Moonroof • Multi-function trip computer • Dual-zone climate control • Bose audio system with AM/FM six-disc in-dash CD changer w/ nine speakers • Radio data system • Auto-dimming inside mirror • Homelink universal transmitter Optional Features • Cold package: Heated front seats, steering wheel and outside mirrors ($400) • Bluetooth hands-free phone system ($800) • Five-piece floor mats and trunk mat ($180) • Rear spoiler ($370)

Celebrating 36 Years!

LOCAL MOVING SPECIALISTS SERVING THE SEATTLE METRO AREA

Household or Small Office Moves • Full Service or Labor Only Packing Services • Temperature Controlled Storage • Document Storage

STORAGE SPECIAL - 2 MONTHS FREE* Call to reserve your date! www.expressmoversinc.com info@expressmoversinc.com

Seattle Chooses Express Movers: “Best of Western Washington”, King 5 Evening Magazine “Best Movers in Seattle”, Citysearch.com “Best Storage in Seattle”, Bizvotes.com.

206-276-4599

*WITH 4 MONTHS PAID STORAGE

-WUTC HG-61664

Prepare to play.

Get caught in the storm

by William Shakespeare | directed by George Mount

Alcoholism and drug addiction don’t discriminate. Assessments Residential Treatment Intensive Outpatient

Relapse Prevention Continuing Care LBTQ Continuing Care Group

alcohol & chemical dependency treatment for women

www.residencexii.org Kirkland, WA

425.823.8844 800.776.5944

Covered by most insurance

June 5–28, 2009 Late Night Acoustic Set • Sat. June 20 • 10:30 p.m.

Jesse Sykes and Phil Wandscher from Jesse Sykes and The Sweet Hereafter Center House Theatre at the Seattle Center

Tickets: 206-733-8222 or www.seattleshakespeare.org pictured: Hana Lass as Ariel. photo by Erik Stuhaug.

DENTIST SEEKING PATIENT TALENTED DENTIST IN SEARCH OF . . . Highly skilled, very sensitive dentist located in the Madison Park neighborhood of Seattle is looking for patients who would appreciate being pampered and respected. If you are looking for a dentist who will listen to you, never judge or put you down and will always be there for you then please respond. I love all aspects of general dentistry including cosmetic dentistry, periodontal teeth cleanings, implants (dental implants, of course) and SEDATION dentistry. I am one of only 1% of dentists qualified to administer "Sedation Dentistry" in the entire country. I am open to having you come in for a complete examination or we could just meet for a short chat to get to know each other a little better first if you prefer. Just give me a call at (206) 323-7877 or visit me on-line at seattlesbestsmiles.com. Who knows, it might just be the perfect fit.

Visit us online www.sgn.org

May 29, 2009

Seattle Gay News

9

Pride with A Purpose. Capital City Pride 2009 Get your Pride to the State Capital.

Sunday, June 21 Parade @ noon • festival all day

Downtown Olympia Pride Hotel Specials SEATTLE MEN’S CHORUS ENSEMBLE

Events all weekend. More info:

MAYDAY TURNS TO

www.CapitalCityPride.net

katastrophe

2008 Entertainment Headliner

MUSICAL MAYHEM

and:

Kim Archer Band • Local Performers • Rainbow City Band

MAY 29 - JUNE 7, 2009 COLUMBIA CITY THEATER MAY 29 - JUNE 7, 2009

flyinghouse.org | 206.388.1400

10 Seattle Gay News

May 29, 2009

Celebrating 36 Years!

BAT N’ ROUGE XI Gay Pride 2009 Kick Off Event!

THE DYKES VS

DRAG QUEENS

saturday june 13th 5:00pm - 8:00pm

CAL ANDERSON PARK - BOBBY MORRIS PLAY FIELD BETWEEN 11TH & 12TH ON PINE STREET - SEATTLE

www.chacseattle.org

Please Support the Capitol Hill Alano Club’s Ongoing Mission of Drug & Alcohol Recovery

Bat N Rouge 2009 Supported By: FIRST PITCH: Senator Ed Murray Rat City Roller Girls - The Seattle Storm - The Teamsters Local # 117 Rainbow City Renegayed Pep Band - Knights Of Malta Jet Chapter

Sisters Of Perpetual Indulgence - Abbey of St. Joan

Proud to be sponsored by:

SGN

Seattle Gay News

Inn Harmony

Guest House 206-922-3391

www.innharmonyguesthouse.com

Bat N Rouge is a Fundraising Event to benefit the Capitol Hill Alano Club. CHAC is a non-profit organization hosting nearly 60 twelve-step meetings each week. CHAC is now in its 27th year of service in providing the Seattle LGBT Community with recovery support for drug and alcohol addiction. For More Information Contact: www.chacseattle.org or call 206-860-9560

Visit us online www.sgn.org

May 29, 2009

Seattle Gay News 11

12 Seattle Gay News

May 29, 2009

Celebrating 36 Years!

Shaun Knittel

Young protester Gavin Smith at Westlake Center

prop 8 rally continued from cover

married in California when Gay marriage was legal in the state were told that an amendment is not retroactive unless it is clear that the voters intended it to be, and that was not the case with Proposition 8. This ruling was decried by Gay-rights activists as a hollow victory. The court said that while the ban denies Gay couples use of the term “marriage,” it does not fundamentally disturb their basic right to “establish an officially recognized and protected family relationship with the person of one’s choice and to raise children within the family.” California still allows Gay couples to form domestic partnerships. Immediately following the decision, demonstrators outside the San Francisco courthouse booed, wept and yelled, “Shame on you!” A group of people held hands in a chain around an intersection in an act of protest. The San Francisco police department arrested more than 150 protesters with citations for failure to obey a police officer and jaywalking. In Los Angeles, nearly 100 protestors rallied outside the Los Angeles County clerk’s office, where marriage licenses are issued, waving rainbow flags and carrying signs that read, “Repeal Prop 8 in 2010.” Gay activists across the state said they would go back to voters as early as next year in a bid to repeal the ban. LGBT organizations and Gay-rights activists accused the court of failing to protect a minority group

from the will of the majority. The justices argued that the state’s governing framework gives voters almost unfettered ability to change the California Constitution. Justice Carlos Moreno, who had been under consideration as President Barack Obama’s nominee to the U.S. Supreme Court, was the lone dissenter, saying, “Denying same-sex couples the right to wed strikes the core of the promise of equality that underlies our California Constitution. It represents a drastic and far-reaching change.” Justice Moreno went on to say, “Promising equal treatment to some is fundamentally different from promising equal treatment for all. Promising treatment that is almost equal is fundamentally different from ensuring truly equal treatment.” Locally, a protest and rally was held at Westlake Center in downtown Seattle the night of the decision. Organized by Day of

Visit us online www.sgn.org

Decision Seattle, the event brought together dozens of local LGBT civil rights groups and a crowd estimated at 1,200. Demonstrators carried signs, waved rainbow colored flags, and with the help of the Queer Ally Coalition cheered, “Gay, straight, black, white, marriage is a civil right!” “All American citizens that are law-abiding citizens should be treated equally,” said Karl Derrick, who came to the Westlake protest to show support. “What the court did today was show all minority groups in California that if the majority believe something, then there is nothing that stands in the way of even taking away a civil right, which is what they’ve done today.” Another supporter, a 19-year-old University of Washington Lesbian who wished to remain unnamed because she is not out to her parents, said, “I’m not too surprised by the decision today. Still, I am hopeful for the future. With each passing year, we gain more and more supporters of Gay marriage. History is already on our side, we just have to hold up our end of the bargain and continue to fight for equality.” The crowd had many faces and age groups. The hundreds of people who filled Westlake Center were a virtual collage of Washingtonians rallying for change. Gavin Smith, 7 years old, held up a sign that simply read, “Love Will Win.” Gavin’s mom said the boy was there with her to show support for Gay relatives in their family. Olivia Hall, a 13-year-old who identifies as a Lesbian, said, “I really was not surprised by the decision today. People aren’t very accepting at this point – I wish everyone could be happy and get married.” Olivia’s mom, Lori Dahl, quickly added, “No matter who you are.” The mother and daughter duo have attended many rallies and protests since Olivia came out as a Lesbian. Not everyone in the crowd was LGBT. A good number of the community’s straight allies were on hand, like Linda Massey, who said, “I was so upset by the ruling today, it broke my heart. I have so many good friends who are LGBT, I just had to come here and show support today. I had to show that not all of us think that marriage should be just between a man and a woman.” The event’s organizers set up a microphone where guest speakers addressed the crowd with the Washington, LGBT, and American flags as their backdrop. Equal Rights Washington Executive Director Connie Watts asked the crowd to take one step back and then two steps forward, saying, “We need to learn from what happened in California – don’t let this [Referendum 71] low blow get to the ballot.” Referendum 71 is aimed at taking away rights from LGBT couples who, beginning July 25, will receive the same rights as married couples in Washington state if they register as domestic partners. If the opposition is successful, then Washingtonians will vote on the issue of domestic partnership in the state – a scenario eerily close to the Proposition 8 vote in California last November.

Sen. Ed Murray (D-WA) reminded the crowd, “We have been disappointed before. What we have to do is continue to organize and not give up.” Murray said that although we may be disappointed today, the big picture tells a different story. “We are winning the battle for equality state by state.” Rep. Jamie Pedersen, Democratic legislator from the 43rd district, told the crowd of supporters that although LGBT couples in Washington can register as domestic partners, “we want marriage equality,” evoking loud cheers from those in attendance. Seattle Out and Proud Board of Directors member Jonathan Bruns rallied the crowd by saying, “This is just a bump, and our win is palpable.” “We stand here today at the gates of almost justice for some, but not justice for all families,” said Rev. David Strong, referring to the current LGBT status pertaining to Gay marriage. A Seattle Gay couple, married in California just days before the 2008 Prop 8 vote, asked everyone to support full marriage equality and said that although they are happy their marriage is still valid, they couldn’t help but be saddened that their Lesbian and Gay sisters and brothers still do not have the right to marry in Washington. Following the Westlake rally, the Queer Ally Coalition led a march from downtown Seattle to Capitol Hill, shouting chants demanding civil rights. Once the marchers reached Pike and Summit, they began to chant, “Out of the bars and into the streets!” Adding to the number of protesters, people left bars and joined the throng of activists who eventually traveled up Broadway, ending at Cal Anderson Park. Although some conservatives interpreted Tuesday’s decision as the court defining marriage between “a man and a woman,” they are incorrect. The court is protecting the initiative called Proposition 8, which claims marriage is between and man and woman simply because it interprets the California Constitution as consisting of these constitutional amendments, and the court has stated that its job is to interpret that state constitution and that it’s not above it. This is an important distinction. Should California voters pass a new initiative that overturns Prop 8, the court would be legally inclined to protect it, as well.

May 29, 2009

Seattle Gay News 13

jim’s southend Servicing all brands, MMI & Factory trained techs p. 206-244-4111 f. 206-244-4110

motorcycle 20+ years experience

10840 Myers Way S, Seattle, WA 98168 southendmotorcycle.com

face painting.

pride WEEKEND continued from cover

Saturday, June 27

Capitol Hill Pride Festival 2009 This year’s festival organizers are expecting 5,000 people to converge on Broadway between Olive and Harrison St., from Broadway Grill to Rite Aid, for the 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. event. The theme is “Family” and is open to everyone – LGBT, straight, and anyone of any background. The festival is open to all ages and will feature music, singing, fashion show contests, a pet parade, and

Seattle Stonewall 40th Celebration Kyler Powell and Kaladi Productions invite Seattle LGBT community and our allies to pay tribute to those who previously dedicated their lives to fight for LGBT rights. The theme is celebrating the past, present, and rallying for the future by paying tribute to past leaders of the LGBT community and celebrating our success. The event, 2 p.m. at the Volunteer Park Amphitheater, will feature various performances throughout the day to mark the Stonewall milestone.

2009 Seattle Dyke March Rally from 5-7 p.m. at the Seattle Central Community Colleges Plaza at Broadway Ave E. and E. Pine St. for the annual Seattle Dyke March. This year’s theme is the 40th Anniversary of Stonewall. The march steps off at 7 p.m. to go around Capitol Hill and back to the Plaza. Event organizers say, “Come one, come all to celebrate ourselves, flourish in our stereotypes, beat some drums, shout some chants, and celebrate our community. We want all the fabulous dykes, Lesbians, Bisexuals, allies, Trans folks, everyone of every different race/ethnicity, different abilities, shapes, etc. to join us in the celebration.”

Sunday, June 28

2009 Seattle Pride Parade This year, Seattle Pride, in addition to being a huge celebration, will also contain a heightened political aspect. “We will acknowledge the history of our civil rights effort by commemorating the Stonewall event even as we cheer the latest local and national LGBT legislative achievements,” said Seattle Out and Proud board member Jon C. Mejia. Starting at 11 a.m. from the corner of Union St. and 4th Ave. the parade will pro-

Counseling Services

Seattle PrideFest 2009 The largest LGBT gathering in the Pacific Northwest returns with great local and national talent, non-profits from across the community, beer gardens, DJs, and a lot more. The event, held at Seattle Center after the Parade between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., is a popular event culminating around the International Fountain that has a little something for everyone. This year there is a great talent lineup featuring Broadway signer and actress Shoshana Bean (Wicked, Hairspray) and #1 dance recording artist Abigail returns to PrideFest to perform her hits and new single “Forever Young.” The emcee and hostess for the event is the ever-popular Sylvia O’Stayformore. Rounding out the initial lineup is Fuchsia FoXXX, a local burlesque dancer, QBoy from the U.K., and THEESatisfaction. Making sure there will be no shortage of music at PrideFest is DJ Phil B (Red Party), DJ Rob C, LA Kendall, Mathematix, and DJ Kyler. This year’s theme is “There are Heroes Among Us.” Last year over 50,000 people attended the event with over 100 vendors and dozens of sponsors participating.

SPECIALTIES LGBT Issues Couples Counseling Depression Anger Management Domestic Violence Grief and Loss HIV/AIDS

Gary Sarozek, MA, LMHC

1370 Stewart Street 206-619-4187 (Across from REI)

Seattle WA, 98109

ceed down Denny Way. The parade is limited to approximately two and one-half hours in length, but should only take about one hour to go from start to finish, according to Seattle Pride Parade organizers. This year’s theme is “Peace, Love, Equality.” According to Seattle Pride’s website, the parade special guest is dance music recording artist Jacinta, with Eric Medina as the official Pride Parade DJ. Erik Sandoval and Mother Theresa Nervina are scheduled as Parade announcers at Westlake Park. The two Parade announcers at 4th Ave and Bell St. are Sylvia O’Stayformore and Pakio. The popular event is still open for registration, which closes on May 31. Seattle Out and Proud told SGN they are expecting a record turnout this year and would not be surprised to see 500,000 people lining the parade route this year. “For the 35th year we will reaffirm our coming together in unity to express ourselves, in cooperation with our straight neighbors and allies, on the streets of Seattle and publicly assert that we are all Americans, deserving and entitled to equal protection under law,” Mejia said. For parade updates, visit www.seattlepride.org. Also available for purchase on the website is the Seattle Out and Proud Pride button campaign. All proceeds go towards eliminating past Pride debt to the city. The buttons are a great way to show your Pride and support a worthy cause.

gsarozek@comcast.net www.garysarozek.com

Religion & Spirituality “OPEN & AFFIRMING”

Rev. David Strong Pastor

www.PlymouthChurchSeattle.org

SOJOURNER TRUTH MINISTRIES

Walk the labyrinth: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Sunday Worship 12:00pm

1st Friday & saturday of each month Jazz Worship service: at noon on Wednesdays sunday services: 8:45 am & 11:00 am plymouth Congregational Church, UCC Downtown at 6th & University 206-622-4865

P.O. Box 19734 Seattle, WA 98109 Phone: 206.621.8960

Come worship with us!

2524 16th Ave. South A209 Seattle, Washington 98144 Phone 206-478-6718 www.sojournertruthministries.org

A Church for All God’s People – since 1972 www.mccseattle.org Sunday Worship 12:30 pm 1441-16th Ave on Capitol Hill (206) 325-2421

Trinity Episcopal Church An Open and Affirming Congregation - Come join us! Sundays 8:00 and 10:30 - Wednesdays & Thursdays 5:30

Eighth Avenue & James Street, Seattle www.trinityseattle.org

14 Seattle Gay News

May 29, 2009

Celebrating 36 Years!

UPDATE: Domestic partnership foes cancel court petition to amend Referendum 71 title Nick ardizzone

Josh Friedes

by Shaun Knittel SGN Staff Writer Washington Values Alliance, the organization leading the campaign against expanding the state’s domestic partnership law, filed a petition May 26 to amend the referendum language – however, according to Legal Voice Executive Director Lisa Stone, they plan on canceling the petition at 1 p.m. today, May 29.

ington Values Alliance, filed the petition in Thurston County Superior Court challenging the wording of its potential ballot measure, Referendum 71. Gary Randall from the Faith of Freedom network posted on his blog May 28 that his organization plans to print petitions May 29 to gather signatures in favor of Referendum 71. If the proponents collect more than 120,500 valid voter signatures by July 25, the referendum will make the November ballot. By filing a challenge, Washington Values Alliance delayed their own signature gathering process by at least one week, maybe longer, because they cannot legally start circulating petitions until the challenge is resolved. Meanwhile, Equal Rights Washington and Legal Marriage Alliance, two grassroots organizations fighting for LGBT civil rights, have already launched a “Decline to Sign” campaign, gathering signatures of supporters who decline to sign any Referendum 71 petition. Stone said that once Thurston County Judge Thomas McPhee rules on the ballot title – if they don’t cancel May 29 – there is no longer an option to appeal the decision. “Washington Families Standing Together has an incredible legal team which is allowing us the ability to simultaneously forge ahead with the rapid development of our campaign to protect Washington families,” said Equal Rights Washington Advocacy Director Josh Friedes. He said they are prepared for the possibility that signature gathering could begin al-

most immediately if they dismiss the challenge. If they dismiss the challenge, they would have lost a week in signature gathering and gained nothing, Friedes said. “Regardless of when they start collecting signatures, this weekend is a great time to remind family and friends to decline to sign Referendum 71 petitions. I’m putting a ‘Decline to Sign’ message on my voicemail and my Facebook status bar, and I plan to hand out ‘Decline to Sign’ leaflets when I join thousands of Washingtonians in a march for affordable healthcare Saturday,” Friedes added. “Everyone should make their own ‘Decline to Sign Referendum 71’ action plans.” On the same day Gov. Chris Gregoire signed Senate Bill 5688, which granted same-sex domestic partners all the rights of married couples, the attorney general released details of Referendum 71, which aimed at overturning the law. If Referendum 71 makes it to the November 3 ballot, nearly 6,000-registered domestic partnerships are at stake. New Jersey, California, New Hampshire, Oregon, Washington, and the District of Columbia have laws that either recognize civil unions, or domestic partnerships that afford same-sex couples similar rights to marriage. To date, 30 states have Gay marriage bans in their constitutions.

A ballot title is the official, short summary of a ballot measure that appears on the ballot. The goal of a good ballot title is to be a neutral summary that accurately conveys to voters the gist of what the proposed new law says or would do. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, most voters never read more than the title and summary of the text of initiative proposals. Larry Stickney, president of the Wash-

Health Services www.sgn.org

der + i v o r P y a G t = n e i t a P y Ga Healthy ip Relationsh

BODYWORK

·

NUTRITION

·

FITNESS

www.capitolhillmedical.com Visit us online www.sgn.org

www.rainycitybodyworks.com (206) 654-4444 May 29, 2009

Seattle Gay News 15

raffle tickets – 5 for $5 – to win goods, gift dyne.com. certificates and services from local GLBTcontinued from page 3 friendly merchants and donors. Dignity/Se2009 OFFICIAL attle is also collecting old cell phones and SEATTLE PRIDE® PARADE contact Jessica at 206-774-2251 or email used inkjet cartridges at the event. Proceeds, & VIP VILLAGE Bashert@JewishInSeattle.org. after expenses, will benefit Bailey-Boushay BEER/WINE GARDEN House, Multifaith Works and Dignity/SeatOn Sunday, June 28, from 11 a.m.-2:30 FREEDOM SOCIALIST PARTY tle. www.dignityseattle.org; 206-325-7314. p.m., join Seattle’s LGBT community and FORUM TO DISCUSS visiting friends starting at 4th Ave. & Union GAY RIGHTS AND THE SEATTLE PRIDE CRUISE St. for Seattle’s mega Pride Parade traveling DEMOCRATIC PARTY On Saturday, June 27, join Seattle Pride north on 4th Ave. to Denny Way celebrating On Friday, June 26, at 7:30 p.m., the Free- party-goers for Seattle’s hottest floating “Peace, Love and Equality” and the 40th dom Socialist Party hosts a forum at New T-dance on a 4 hour Argosy Cruise aboard Anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. FREE. Freeway Hall, 5018 Rainier Ave. S., on “Gay the MV Spirit of Seattle with light meal, hot www.seattlepride.org. Rights and the Democratic Party.” $3 door DJ’d music and drag entertainment. BoardIf you would like to enjoy an ice cold beer donation; enjoy $6 tasty snack plates. For ing at 5 p.m. at Argosy Cruises, Pier 55, or a glass of wine while watching the parade, rides, childcare or work exchanges, please 1101 Alaskan Way, cruise from 5:30-9:30 check out the VIP Village for $5 (or show call three days in advance. Bring nonperish- p.m. Tickets: $50 until June 1, $60 after your official Seattle Pride® button for free able food donations for the local food bank. June 1, $65 dockside (if available). www. entry) at 4th Ave. & Bell St. You must be For more information, call 206-722-2453 or cruiseyT.com; 604-551-BOAT. Proceeds 21+ to enter the VIP Village – ID required. email fspseattle@mindspring.com. benefit Seattle Out and Proud. Sponsored by Seattle Out and Proud and Groupdyne.com. www.seattlepride.org. QUEER TEEN CAPITOL HILL PRIDE FESTIVAL ENSEMBLE THEATRE On Saturday, June 27, from 11 a.m.-4 2009 SEATTLE PRIDEFEST JUNE 26-29 p.m., the Capitol Hill Community Council AT SEATTLE CENTER Now in its third year, Queer Teen En- presents the new Capitol Hill Pride Festival On Sunday, June 28 from 11 a.m to 7 p.m., semble Theatre (QTET) is an educational 2009 on Broadway between E. John St. and celebrate Pride at the Seattle PrideFest. outreach program giving voice and artistry E. Harrison St. Enjoy non-profit and vendor Enjoy local and national talent, commuto LGBT youth in the Seattle community. booths, entertainment, music and history. nity nonprofit and vendor booths, beer garTeens works with WET ensemble members www.capitolhillcommunitycouncil.org. dens, DJ’d music and dancing at the Internato explore their perspectives onstage in the tional Fountain. www.seattlepridefest.com. creation of a new play. Watch for The EnSEATTLE STONEWALL semble in Seattle’s Pride Parade. Details are 40TH CELEBRATION HEDWIG & THE ANGRY INCH not currently available. http://washingtonOn Saturday, June 27, celebrate StoneTO BENEFIT ensemble.org wall’s 40th Anniversary at Volunteer Park HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN Amphitheater, 14th Ave. E. & E. Prospect On Sunday, June 28, Club Motor, 1950 DIGNITY SEATTLE’S St. Starting at 2 p.m., enjoy an afternoon of 1st Ave. S. presents the songs from Hedwig 21ST ANNUAL music and performance. Seattle Stonewall and the Angry Inch in a live performance PRIDE WEEK BREAKFAST 40th Celebration is celebrating the past, with band. Doors at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m. On Saturday, June 27, from 8 a.m.-noon, present, and rallying for the future by pay- Tickets: $16 in advance, $20 at door. www. Dignity/Seattle will host their annual Pride ing tribute to past leaders of the LGBT com- brownpapertickets.com/event/63495. Week Breakfast at Central Lutheran Church, munity. 1710 11th Ave. For $7 per person, enjoy all***PRIDE AROUND you-can-eat pancakes, eggs, sausage, melon, SEATTLE DYKE MARCH WASHINGTON STATE orange juice, coffee and tea. Also purchase On Saturday, June 27, rally from 5-7 p.m. at Seattle Central Community College, Fourth Corner Pride (Bellingham) – Broadway & E. Pine St., march steps off at Sunday, July 12. Watch for more details. 7 p.m. Kitsap Pride (Bremerton) – Saturday, SEATTLE PRIDE BRUNCH July 18. Watch for more details. http://kitOn Sunday, June 28, from 8-11:30 a.m., sappride.org enjoy a special plated Pride Brunch for hungry Pride Parade-goers. Proceeds from each Lewis County Pride (Centralia) – FriPride Brunch sold will go directly to Seattle day, June 5. At Centralia College, 600 CenPride®, a local organization supporting tralia College Blvd., from 11 a.m-4 p.m. unity and diversity in our community . Cost centraliacollegegsa@gmail.com is $25. For a list of participating restaurants and brunch menus, visit www.seattlepride. Capitol City Pride (Olympia) – Sunorg. and scroll down the events menu. Spon- day, June 21. Parade starts at noon from the sored by Seattle Out and Proud and Group- Capitol Steps, heads north on Capitol Way,

Pride events

Home Services

right onto 4th Ave., right onto Washington St and ends at Sylvester Park. Enjoy music, entertainment, and community vendors at Pride Festival in Sylvester Park. www.capitalcitypride.net. Mid-Columbia Pride (Pasco) – Sunday, July 19. Watch for more details. Spokane Pride Parade & Rainbow Festival 2009 – Saturday, June 13. Assemble at 11 a.m. on Wall Street between Spokane Falls Boulevard and Main Ave. Parade steps off at noon. See website for parade route. Rainbow Festival at Gondola Meadows, Riverfront Park, noon-5:30 p.m. www.outspokane.com Out in the Park (Tacoma) – Saturday, July 11. Wright Park, noon-7 p.m. 253383-2318; outintacoma@rainbowcntr.org; www.rainbowcntr.org. Saturday in the Park (Vancouver, WA) – Saturday, July 11. Esther Short Park, noon-6 p.m. www.myspace.com/sitp2008 Yakima Pride Fest 2009 – Saturday, June 13. Franklin Park on Tieton Drive, noon-6 p.m. Sunday, June 14. Celebration at Club 54 in Union Gap. centralwashdiveritycoalition@yahoo.com ***PORTLAND & BRITISH COLUMBIA Portland Pride 2009 – Saturday & Sunday, June 13 & 14. Pride Festival at Tom McCall Waterfront Park – Saturday, noon11 p.m. and Sunday, noon-6 p.m. Pride Parade steps off from NW Park and NW Davis on Sunday, June 14 at 11 a.m. via NW Davis, then right onto NW Broadway, left onto SW Taylor, left onto Naito Parkway to SW Pine to Pride Festival at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. www.pridenw.org. Vancouver, BC Pride – Saturday, August 1. 2009 Vancouver Dyke March and Festival. Watch for more details. www.vancouverdykemarch.com Vancouver, BC Pride – Sunday, August 2. Pride Parade begins at noon from Robson and Thurlow and heads west down the hill to Denman, then follows Denman to Pacific and Beach, finishing at the Sunset Beach Festival which begins at 11 a.m. www.vancouverpride.ca Victoria, BC Pride – Sunday, July 5. Pride Parade steps off from Government and Pandora at noon; Pride Festival at Fisherman's Wharf Park begins at 1 p.m. www. victoriapridesociety.org

Kennedy Painting and Design interiors/exteriors/color consultations

Richard Kennedy

206-683-9666 rkennedypainting@yahoo.com

Major Credit Cards Accepted

(206) 784-0313 www.happyhauler.com

licensed bonded insured lic #kennedpd924bw

You can save up to 40% on your heat bill by installing a high efficiency heat pump and you may qualify for a $1500 FeDeRaL taX cReDit anD ManUFactUReR’s ReBate. Puget Sound Energy is currently offering up to $3950 rebate on electric to gas heating conversion.

Heating & gas inc. We instaLL in FLOOR Heat, BOiLeRs, geOtHeRMaL sYsteMs, Heat PUMPs, FORceD aiR, anD gas PiPe. We seRVice aLL BRanDs. neW cOnstRUctiOn, ReMODeLs, eXisting HOMes

(425) 379-8934 6 months same as cash Oac

www.aireforceheating.net 16 Seattle Gay News

May 29, 2009

GARY D. TORGERSON CO.

Building Restoration Specialists expert residential painting and Carpentry Comprehensive professional services essential to long term home preservation and renovation. Visit our web site for extensive displays of our services and expertise, including correction of peeling and blistering problems.

Phone: 206-781-0999 / www.TorgersonCompany.com #GARYDTC134CJ

Celebrating 36 Years!

courtesy Don Paulson

The great Andy Warhol by Don Paulson SGN Contributing Writer No other art venue captured the public’s curiosity and controversy more than Andy Warhol. More so than the New York Armory art show of 1913 that ushered in Modern art, more so than Abstract Expressionism of the 1950s. As if Warhol’s Soup Cans and visceral Underground Movies were not enough to secure his fame, he and others created Multi Media in New York, especially when he connected with the Velvet Underground. They became an outrageous rock band and a crazy artist! “Underground” was the auspicious key word with the hip crowd in 1966, only Kenneth Anger and Bob Dylan knew what it meant, but everyone knew it was big. When Warhol and the Silver Factory people met the Velvet Underground, “all hell broke loose,” culminating in a joint multimedia event called the Exploding Plastic Inevitable Disco. To test the waters, they planned an event at the Filmmakers’ Cinematheque in a small theater in midtown Manhattan. About 300 people packed the house, sizzling with anticipation. You would think it was a family reunion with Warhol, the shy patriarch of Pop, surrounded by an endless supply of superstars, wannabes, and worker bees. My first impression of the event about to take place was a flurry of people setting up extension cords and slide projectors while the band warmed up. I thought, this is not very organized, they should have got all this together beforehand, but happenings have no rules. All of a sudden, the show began without fanfare or an emcee. The Velvets began to play full volume while a movie of a woman being tied up was projected behind them. What surprised everyone is the drummer for the band was a woman, unique! We all figured she was Gay (but is not). She was good at keeping up an unusual primitive beat. The second thing I saw was John Cale and his massive rhinestone choker. How could any man be so brave? When I first saw him on the subway, I figured he had to be somebody, especially with a Richard the Third haircut. Only a few men wore their hair really long then, and then everyone surmised they were Gay. The Velvets wore black: Dungarees, leather jackets, high-heeled boots and sunglasses to look eerie and sinister, but Lou had the face of angel. While the band played on, dancers came on stage such as beautiful, stoic ice goddess

Nico in a white pantsuit and a long cape with bright red lining, swinging a rope and a tambourine. She never cracked a smile while singing in her unearthly voice. Poor little rich girl Eddie Sedgwick (Andy’s current bauble) was right out there. She tried singing, but her real talents were her fashion model good looks, her beautiful legs, the shortest miniskirt in the universe and her “everyone wants to fuck me’’ admission. Joining Eddie, Nico and other dancers on the stage was Gerard Malanga in tight leather pants (that Jim Morisson copied) with a long black whip on his side which he began to manipulate doing his whip dance. No one was struck but Nico, who then took the whip and began her sexy whip dance while Gerard, tying up with his tie, pretended to shoot up with his fountain pen while the band played “Heroin.” “The sound is a savage series of electronic feedback. The lyrics are sadomasochistic frenzy.” Several people literally fled up the isle. The strobe light was pointed at the audience and at least one third shouted violently to turn it off. And so we have it, an early rock/light show/dance and a chapter in Andy Warhol’s remarkable life, despite the remark by Oliver Stone, “The Silver Factory was a psychedelic nightmare peopled by vampires.” Who said vampires can’t have fun?

Specialized Services

www.sgn.org

Major Credit Cards Accepted

(206) 784-0313 www.happyhauler.com

Real Estate The Best Prices in Greater Seattle!

151 3rd Street, Downtown Kirkland Open daily 10-5:30, Sun 12-5

(425) 827-7443

Visit us online www.sgn.org

May 29, 2009

Seattle Gay News 17

courtesy q syndicate

Emile Griffith: Out for the count by Dan Woog SGN Contributing Writer In 1962, Emile Griffith killed Benny “Kid” Paret. The occasion was a nationally televised fight, with boxing’s welterweight crown at stake. If ever there were a non-Gay event, a death in the boxing ring would seem to be it. But – as with so much else in life – there is far more to the story than meets the eye. Griffith – the holder of six championship belts, a charter inductee in the International Boxing Hall of Fame and a fan favorite for both his exciting style and charming personality – did not reveal at the time what caused him to knock Paret unconscious in the 12th round, then pummel him a dozen more times as he stood propped against the ropes. Griffith was not a vicious man; entering the bout, his 28-3 record included just 10 knockouts. Yet over the years, rumors filtered through the boxing world: Griffith’s rage had been

ignited hours earlier, during the weigh-in, when Paret called him a “maricón” (Spanish for “faggot”). Griffith almost attacked him right there, the story went; later that night, his fists finished the job. At the time, Griffith’s homosexuality was known to many sportswriters, but, following the standards of the times, no one mentioned it publicly. Though Griffith never hid who he was – he walked proudly through the front door of Times Square Gay bars, rather than slinking in the back, someone noted – it took decades for him to actually say, “I am Gay.” Today there are no shades of gray. Griffith – who is suffering from the twin effects of pugilistic dementia and a vicious beating outside a Gay bar several years ago – has allowed his story to be written. Nine…Ten… And Out! The Two Worlds of Emile Griffth is Emile Griffith the first book to explore the life of a championship Gay boxer. difference between 1962 and 2009 is how do something on Emile for a long time, but And what may be most revealing of the little reaction the once-explosive revelation everyone wanted to focus on the lurid parts. When his manager and trainer, Gil Clancy, has generated. Nine…Ten… is the work of Ron Ross, a asked me if I’d be interested, I took a long veteran boxing writer and former pro boxer, time to decide. But they knew I’d be sensifight promoter and manager. He is an un- tive to his situation, so I said yes.” There was another reason: Ross has a Lesapologetic Griffith fan – and he understands bian daughter. the two worlds his subject long straddled. “I wanted a book that portrayed Emile “The ’50s and ’60s were a more homophobic time than today,” Ross says, “but Emile Griffith, the person,” Ross explains. “Not was still accepted for who he was. He was an just a Gay person, not just a fighter – but a upfront guy, and people in boxing respected human being. Something anyone – boxing him for that. Outside of the boxing world, fan or not, Gay or straight – could relate to. I think I achieved that objective.” though, most people didn’t know.” Does Griffith leave a legacy? Years ago, New York Times sports colum“Definitely,” Ross says. “He stood up at a nist Bob Herbert asked Griffith about the rumors. “I have been with men and women,” time when many people were in the closet. He carried himself honestly, without flauntthe boxer responded. Not until the premiere of the movie Ring ing anything. His legacy is that an athlete of Fire – a documentary that traveled the de- can love himself completely. He sends the cades from the fatal fight to a heart-rending message that it’s OK to live your life openmeeting between Griffith and Paret’s now- ly, with sensitivity and compassion.” Ross then recites his favorite line from grown son – did the former boxer use the the book: “I killed a man, and most people “G” word, and come fully out. The film – which, to use a boxing anal- understand and forgive me,” Griffith said ogy, pulled no punches – had an enormous once. “However, I love a man, and to so effect on Griffith. “He told me, ‘I guess the many people this is an unforgivable sin; this whole world knows now,’” Ross says. “As makes men an evil person. So even though he walked out of the theater, people cheered I never went to jail, I’ve been in prison alhim. That was a revelation to him. People most all my life.” still loved and accepted him. That opened a Dan Woog is a journalist, educator, socdoor for him to step through. And he did.” But why a book about a Gay welterweight cer coach, Gay activist, and author of the “Jocks” series of books on Gay male athnow? “The time is right,” Ross says. “Emile letes. Visit his website at www.danwoog. and Muhammad Ali were two of the all-star com. He can be reached care of this publiboxers of the ’60s. People have wanted to cation or at OutField@qsyndicate.com.

Legal Services

Versatile Painting Company

Interiors Exteriors

Faux finishes Murals

Over 22 years experience 206-755-5723 Visit our website at web.mac.com/tedobey

18 Seattle Gay News

May 29, 2009

Celebrating 36 Years!

Visit us online www.sgn.org

May 29, 2009

Seattle Gay News 19