Pittsburgh's Out January 2012 issue 418

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January 2012 Issue No. 418

They Cruze together, but they’re just friends —page21

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Never follow strangers down a manhole—page 30

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Good girl gone bad—real bad—page 15

Organization offers welcoming community to LGBT families by Laura Kingsbury With a quick glance at the political climate, recent changes in marriage legislation and viral YouTube videos, it is clear that Americans everywhere are asking, “What makes a family?� But here in Pittsburgh, members of a

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Top slutty cities—guess where we are—page 3

growing group of LGBT parents, Families Like Ours, have been supporting each other in building and maintaining healthy families for 20 years. One of the group’s leaders, Cheryl Dennis, said FLO branched off from the former Lesbians Are Parents organization to be a

strong social support network for LGBT parents and their kids, inclusive of men and women. Dennis, who with her partner, Holly, has three children, said the group started with about four families in the early ’90s Continued on page 8

World AIDS observed

US makes case for world LGBT rights

by John Colombo Another World AIDS Day was commemorated in Pittsburgh on Dec. 1. Opening with a press conference at the City County Building, Mayor Ravenstahl spoke, as did Sara Oliver-Carter, vice president of diversity and inclusion at Highmark. Later in the day a flash mob appeared in Market Square to remind people about AIDS, and then the annual candle light vigil began at CMU and moved toward Heinz Chapel for a memorial service.

On Dec. 6 Secretary of State Hillary Clinton delivered a landmark speech at the United Nations in Geneva on civil rights for LGBT people around the world. Clinton called on world leaders to reject anti-LGBT policies and announced new U.S. initiatives to support organizations working to protect gay people who are marginalized and targeted with violence. A presidential memorandum issued by the White House while Clinton spoke directed federal agencies involved in work abroad to “ensure that U.S. diplomacy and

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foreign assistance promote and protect the human rights of LGBT persons.� Both developments follow previous State Department and White House pronouncements supporting the global fight against anti-LGBT persecution. “Today, I want to talk about the work we have left to do to protect one group of people whose human rights are still denied in too many parts of the world today,� Clinton said in her address. “In many ways, they are an invisible Continued on page 3errorized, exContinued oneven page 3

X-PHILES

Ring in the New Year at Pittsburgh’s Hottest New Club! :; (55<(3 5,> @,(9: ,=, 7(9;@ Z[

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bar owner Brandon Lee, and somehow no one seems upset in Affirmative Blacktion (Channel 1 Releasing/All Worlds). “My dick stopped working,� Christian Wilde confides to Dr. John Magnum in Trust Me I’m a Doctor (Hot House), but after the good doc checks out his patient’s balls—leading to an instant cure—he prescribes follow-up care to be administered orally by hunky tattooed Nurse Rod Daily. In Swelter (TitanMen) Gio Forte hungers for David Anthony’s kielbassa, as well as Bryan Slater’s big package of lunchmeat, and eventually becomes the center of a threeway manwich. No contest: Is there a Doctor in the Hot House?

Best Group

In Jet Set Men’s Police Academy Dylan Roberts tricks his fellow cadets into stripping off their uniforms and stroking each other’s rods, which leads to a gangbang. ChiChi LaRue’s nonstop orgy in Channel 1 Releasing’s Frat Boy Fuck Down features a stable of hot studs, including uber-hung Mario Costa, Matthew Rush, Justin Cox and handsome Ryan Raz. Winner of Best Group: ChiChi’s gang.

Best Director

Brian Mills directed several stunning films for Titan Media last year—like Hellions, Thrill Ride and Consent—often with many of the same hunky performers. Steven Scarborough is known for the hot action be-

tween muscular men, and Hot House’s Reckless 1 and 2 deliver, in a darkened warehouse that gets very busy after hours. If we know one thing about Ms. ChiChi LaRue, she likes serving hefty portions of manmeat to her fans, and currently she’s doing the catering for All Worlds/Channel 1 Releasing. Michael Lucas of Lucas Entertainment has a very successful formula: take gorgeous men, place them in stunning international settings and film away, as he does in the well-plotted Missing about a kidnapping set in Barcelona, which leads—of course—to hot man-on-man action. Winner of Best Director: Make it a fourway ’cause these guys know what we like and consistently deliver.

Best Film

Piss Pigs (Lucas Entertainment) features hot— and wet—cast members Antonio Biaggi, Rod Daily and Lucas himself, there’s enough liquid to satisfy even the raunchiest watersports enthusiasts.

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1600 Smallman Street • Strip District 412.471.1400 • cruzebar.com Open Tuesday-Sunday 4PM-2AM • 21+

Titan Media focuses on younger dudes in their “Fresh� series and slightly older and more muscular guys in TitanMen, setting the benchmark for how great porn looks technically. Perfect example: Swelter, which heats up the screen in High Def as taut, toned and hard studs workout their sizeable —and sizzling—sausages. The next time a young, hunky stranger beckons you into a manhole, use The Trap from Raging Stallion Studios as a cautionary tale: how to behave with burly dudes in bird masks or chains and dog masks and how to manipulate vacuum pumps, double-headed dildos and a mechanical contraption that vigorously thrusts a dildo into your chute. Ouch! And the Best Film of 2011 is: The Trap from Raging Stallion.

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OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 31

X-PHILES

NATIONAL NEWS

2011—another year of bump and grind

US makes case for world LGBT rights

by Samuel Davidson Has it really been a year since we rated our most memorable X-performers and performances in these pages?

DVDs

This year some things stayed the same: TitanMen releases more “combo packs” of some of their movies (a regular DVD and a Blu-ray of the same film); Michael Lucas continues to film drop-dead gorgeous men in drop-dead gorgeous settings; and up-and-cummers replace older studs—who still have a few tricks up their… sleeves. Some things changed: Bel Ami joined Falcon Studios in not making their films available to Out for review; and bareback action seems on the rise. [Editor’s note: Out’s policy is to not review porn that doesn’t promote safer sex.] And Collier Scott is gone; so who will step into those size-10… shoes. Stay tuned. In the meantime, that leaves little ole me doing the job of two X-men. I’m up to the task. Speaking of getting it up, here are the hunks who gave us an assist in 2011.

Best Leading Actor

Best Duo Bearded Jonathan Agassi and tattooed Ivan Rueanda sizzle in a flip-flop encounter, which ends in an equally hot fist fight in the well plotted Missing (Lucas Entertainment). Muscular David Anthony (our best leading actor of ’10) goes for a ride on the cock-ringed pole of equally muscled Dean Flynn after a chance beach encounter in Hellions (TitanMen). Jesse Ares can’t resist lending a helping hand when Spencer Reed stops to take a leak beside his pick-up truck in Titan’s Hellions. A flip-flop scene in Hot House’s Loading Zone has bearded Kyle King giving up his bubble butt to rugged Drew Cutler before Cutler returns the favor. Once again stuck in detention, cocky student Dylan Roberts overcomes his boredom by topping handsome

teacher Brenden Cage in Jet Set’s Straight Edge 8. Another from Lucas Entertainment, Auditions 36: Pounded pairs swarthy and tattooed Alessio Romero and the bearded dirty blond Logan Stevens, and when their sculptured bodies intertwine, it ends in an incredible flip-flop. In a dungeon in Raising the Bar (All Worlds/Channel 1 Releasing) Adam Killian makes an easy entry into Landon Mycles, who stays hard during the plowing, but surprises us when he becomes an aggressive Adonis certainly lives up to his name. bottom after their flip flop. Winner of Best Duo: Anthony/Flynn.

Best Threeway Reality TV star Steven Daigle gets bent over the toilet in a nightclub bathroom as Jimmy Long and wellbuilt Jeremy Bilong take turns topping him in XXXposed (Rascal Productions/Channel 1 Releasing). Dissatisfied bartender Rod Daily and fired bodyguard Matthew Rush exact their revenge on the mouthy Continued on page 31

THE SEX GURU

Private acts in public places: turn-on or illegal? Continued from page 29

Dear Sex Guru, I just turned 50 and I feel like my life is over. No one on Craigslist or on Manhunt will return my messages or they say that I’m too old. Am I just going to drift into oblivion? —Blue Birthday Dear Blue, First of all, if you think the meaning of life has something to do with sex, then you’re way off. And this is the Sex Guru talking! Secondly, who have you been messaging on line!? If you are messaging guys that are half your age in solicitation of sex, then don’t be shocked when you don’t get a hardy response. That being said, there are many great relationships that span various ages, but is that what you are looking for? If you are looking for a meaningful sexual relationship, there are plenty of very attractive men closer to your age that are not only piggy in bed, but have the maturity and knowledge to bring a lot of great things to the relationship beyond sex. If online dating is making you feel like a statistic de-

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void of real content, try meeting people at social and community events where you can enjoy the company of a whole person rather than just their sexy online portfolio accompanied by their AOL girth size. One such venue to meet other mature guys is the social group called the Pittsburgh Prime Timers where local men get together at different community events. Dear Sex Guru, I am a woman who has always identified as lesbian since I was attracted to other girls at a young age. Over the past month though, I have really grown fond of my male friend who is the greatest guy, and I found myself thinking about how he might be a really hot time to play with sexually. I’m not sure what’s going on, and does this mean I am bi-curious or bisexual or straight? —Confused Dear Confused, You aren’t confused. It is society that is confused. The reality of sexuality is that each person has their own unique turn on and turn offs when it comes to sex. You may be 97% attracted to women, but there is something about this one guy that turns you on. Great! Figure out what you want to do with that and

be honest with yourself and who you are with to find out what works for each other. Maybe it is just curiosity? Who knows until you find out? The truth is that most people are bisexual to some degree. There are also many people who are completely attracted to the same sex or the opposite sex. There are yet others who are fairly asexual, still others who find only themselves sexually desirable, others find different manmade objects really erotic, and the list goes on. Regardless of all these individual nuances of sexual attraction, labels ultimately don’t matter. Each person is a unique being with unique taste. Society has created the labels and boxes to be ticked in your dating application form for simplification of something that is infinitely diverse in reality. So just because you stray from the box doesn’t mean that you can’t return to the box if it works for you. The Sex Guru is a collaborative effort of HIV educators whose purpose for this column is to give practical, unbiased answers to sexual health questions in the spirit of sexual freedom and responsibility. Questions can be submitted at out@outonline.com

Continued from page 1

minority. They are arrested, beaten, terrorized, even executed. Many are treated with contempt and violence by their fellow citizens while authorities empowered to protect them look the other way or, too often, even join in the abuse.... I am talking about gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people, human beings born free and given bestowed equality and dignity, who have a right to claim that, which is now one of the remaining human rights challenges of our time.” “Being LGBT does not make you less human,” Clinton said to the audience, which included delegates from countries that criminalize homosexuality.“And that is why

gay rights are human rights, and human rights are gay rights.” More than 80 countries currently have anti-LGBT criminal laws. The goals on global LGBT rights as outlined by the presidential memo seek to: • Combat the criminalization of LGBT status or conduct abroad. • Protect vulnerable LGBT refugees and asylum seekers. • Leverage foreign assistance to protect human rights and advance nondiscrimination.

• Ensure swift and meaningful U.S. responses to human rights abuses of LGBT persons abroad. • Engage international organizations in the fight against LGBT discrimination. “I am deeply concerned by the violence and discrimination targeting LGBT persons around the world, whether it is passing laws that criminalize LGBT status, beating citizens simply for joining peaceful LGBT pride celebrations, or killing men, women and children for their perceived sexual orientation,” Obama said in the memorandum. Referring to a September address he gave to the UN general assembly in New York, the president said, “That is why I declared before heads of state gathered at the United Nations, ‘no country should deny people their rights because of who they love, which is why we must stand up for the rights of gays and lesbians everywhere.’” In a statement, Human Rights Campaign president Joe Solmonese said, “Along with today’s memorandum by President Obama, it is clear that this administration will not turn its head when governments commit or allow abuses of the human rights of LGBT people. Additionally, Secretary Clinton’s message directly to LGBT people around the world that they have an ally in the United States sends a powerful message.”

Top slutty US cities Guess where Pgh lands! by Brodie Scott You won’t believe which American cities have the most singles online looking for casual sex! If you’re single, horny and thinking about moving (or just a fun visit), you might want to consider Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania—or try Seattle, Washington or Portland, Oregon. According to a popular free online dating site open to straight, gay and bi users, those are the top cities in the U.S. where people are seeking casual sex. Surprisingly absent in the top ten are sin cities Las Vegas, New York City and Los Angeles. TheStir.com reports the site awarded the cities by the percentage of users who list “Casual Sex” as one of the relationship types they seek (and then correlated that back to where said naughty user is from). And Portland came out on top (pardon the pun). See the complete top ten below and consider a frisky visit perhaps? Apparently the singles in these cities are eager to oblige! Isn’t that right, Pittsburgh? 10. Houston, Texas 9. San Diego, California 8. Denver, Colorado 7. San Bernardino, California 6. Dallas, Texas 5. San Francisco, California 4. Miami, Florida 3. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 2. Seattle, Washington 1. Portland, Oregon

Gay sailor reinstated to active duty in Navy A gay sailor who holds the distinction of being discharged twice under Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell was readmitted to the armed forces—and may be the first gay person to re-enlist as an active duty service member since repeal of Continued on page 4

OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 3

CMYK

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Dark-haired, dark eyed Jim Crew—and his dark fingernail polish—is the only interesting thing about the threeway in High Drive Productions’ Torrid Twinks. The title for Pacific Sun Entertainment’s Just Fuck really says it all, but it offers up Sebastian Cortes—with his soulful eyes, arm tats and irresistible facial stubble—and displays him in tighty-whities, a winning combination. Hot Boi earns his nickname as he pounds Max Sanchez in West Coast Playaz (Pitbull Productions). Big black stud Jason Diaz gets playful with some big squirt toys—yeah, his big squirter too—after he sees what Logan Scott has packed in his speedos in TitanMen’s

Thrill Ride. The aptly named Jason Adonis is a muscled god, and when he plays an instructor in Police Academy (Jet Set Men) we want to earn our stripes under him. Handsome Josh Logan plays “Big Dick,” the owner of a garage in Big Dick Mechanics from Jet Set Men, but it’s not until the finale that we get to see mechanic Paul Wagner worship that big dick before opening his tool box for Logan’s hammer. Spencer Reed, an amazing adult film star at 6’3” with a tool of 9” and sexy tatts, gives Rod Daily the ride of his life in Sanctuary II (Hot House). Wearing a leather vest, ass-less chaps and boots, blond Ben Harris (of the strong chin and massive chest) is a master with a paddle in his three scenes for Pacific Sun Entertainment—no wonder he has us saying Yes, Sir. And the winner of Best Leading Actor is: Jason Adonis.

NATIONAL NEWS Gay sailor reinstated in Navy Continued from page 3

the military’s gay ban. Petty Officer 2nd Class Jase Daniels—discharged in 2005 and again in 2007—was sworn in Dec. 12 in the Navy to serve on active duty as a linguist. “This is a great day for Petty Officer Daniels,” M. Andrew Woodmansee, the attorney for Daniels. “This also is a great day for the United States military. All qualified American men and women who want serve their country in the armed forces are now welcome to do so without regard to their sexual orientation. “When Jase decided to sue the Navy in 2010 seeking a court order reinstating him on active duty, repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell was uncertain. At the end of the day, a court order was not necessary in his case. I hope this is true for many others and that Jase is just one of many brave gay and lesbian former service members who will be quickly welcomed back into the services.” Daniels, now age 29, entered the military five months before the September 11, 2001, attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon and served his first tour of duty with the Ceremonial Guard in Washington, D.C., where he represented the U.S. at official White House ceremonies and during state and military funerals at Arlington National Cemetery. From his post at Arlington, he watched the Pentagon burn that day, an experience he says reinforced his desire to serve. He completed Hebrew linguist training and was stationed at Fort Gordon, Georgia, where he came to terms with his sexual orientation and outed himself to his commander.

PUBLISHED BY: Out Publishing Co. Inc., 801 Bingham St., Suite 100., Pittsburgh, PA 15203; phone (412) 381-3350; fax (412) 381-7989. E-mail address: out@outonline.com. Web site address: www.outonline.com. Office hours 10am-5pm, Monday through Friday; other hours by appointment. First-class subscription rates: 12 issues, $50; 24 issues, $90; 36 issues, $125. “Bazaar” and “Classified” advertising rates: personal ads, $20 up to 25 words, additional words $.75 each; business ads, $35 up to 25 words, additional words $1.50. See classified form in this issue for more information. Although supported by many fine advertisers, Out cannot accept responsibility for claims made by them. Advertisers who place ads in Out do so with the understanding that Out Publishing Co. Inc. will not accept responsibility for claims made by them in their ads, nor will the publisher be held financially accountable for errors in advertising, regardless of fault, beyond the partial or full cost of the ad itself. Opinions expressed in bylined columns and letters are strictly those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the management, staff or advertisers. The appearance of names and/or pictorial representation in this publication do not necessarily indicate the sexual orientation of individuals, businesses or other entities. Out is a trademark of Out Publishing Co. Inc. Out is a regional gay/lesbian newspaper and is not affiliated or associated in any way with the national gay/lesbian magazine, Out®, which is published by Out Publishing Inc. All contents © 2012, Out Publishing Co. Inc. SUBSCRIBER TO: Wockner News Service. NATIONAL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: Rivendell Media, (212) 242-6863. DEADLINES: News releases, all items for editorial consideration, 13th of month preceding issue; display advertising, calendar information, 15th of month preceding issue; subscription orders, classified advertising only, 20th of the month preceding issue by 3pm; deadlines may be rescheduled due to holidays. Payment of all accounts receivable, 20th of each month. Out is published on or before the first of each month.

PUBLISHERS: Tony Molnar-Strejcek and Ed Molnar-Strejcek (publisher@outonline.com) EDITOR IN CHIEF: David Doorley (davidd@outonline.com) EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Frank Siaca (frankS@outonline.com) PHOTOGRAPHER: John Colombo PRODUCTION MANAGER/GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Laura Annibalini OFFICE MANAGER: Doe Swank (does@outonline.com) DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES: Tony Molnar-Strejcek, Frank D. DiFolco ONLINE WEBMASTER: Out@outonline.com ONLINE ADVERTISING SALES: Tony Molnar-Strejcek CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS ISSUE: Laura Annibalini, Chris Azzopardi, John Colombo, Samuel Davidson, Abby Dees, David Doorley, Mack Friedman, Laura Kingsbury, Richard Labonte, Charlene Lichtenstein, Jesse Monteagudo, Brody Scott, Mark Segal, Frank Siaca,, Ed Molnar-Strejcek, Tony Molnar-Strejcek, Steve Warren, D’Anne Witkowski

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“Keeping the Navy’s core values of honesty and integrity—and very much naïve to the severity of’ Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell—I provided my commander with a written statement, which resulted in the start of discharge proceedings,” said Daniels. He was discharged in 2005. But, in 2006, Daniels received a letter recalling him to service and served in Kuwait for a year with the U.S. Navy Customs Battalion Romeo. Despite the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell law in effect, he served for a year before he was discharged a second time under the law. Daniels is one of three plaintiffs in a case filed in December 2010 that challenges the constitutionality of the discharges under DADT and seeks their reinstatement to active duty. Resolutions for the other plaintiffs are expected soon.

HIV not under control Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that many Americans with HIV do not have their condition under control. Of the nation’s nearly 1.2 million people with the illness, only 28% have a suppressed viral load, according to a CDC study published in the Dec. 2 Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. A suppressed viral load improves patients’ health and dramatically decreases their risk of transmitting the virus through sexual activity. Also, one in five Americans infected with HIV is not aware of it, the CDC said. Only about half of people diagnosed with HIV receive ongoing medical care and treatment. To help remedy the problem, the CDC urges doctors to increase testing for HIV during routine medical visits. The agency recommends that doctors test everyone be-

tween ages 13 and 64. People at high risk of contracting the virus, including injection drug users and men who have sex with other men, should be tested at least once a year, the CDC says.

WV to protect LGBT students On Dec. 14, the West Virginia Board of Education passed an anti-bullying policy that adds “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” to the list of characteristics that the state will track for incidents of harassment, intimidation or bullying. This is the first time the state has adopted a policy to protect LGBT students from bullying due to their actual or perceived sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Fairness West Virginia, a state LGBT civil rights organization, worked with the Education Board to enact the change. The Education Board’s bullying policy now reads: “Acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying that are reasonably perceived as being motivated by any actual or perceived differentiating characteristic, or by association with a person who has or is perceived to have one or more of these characteristics, shall be reported using the following list: race; color; religion; ancestry; national origin; gender; socioeconomic status; academic status; gender identity or expression; physical appearance; sexual orientation; mental/physical/developmental/ sensory disability; or other characteristic.” PITTSBURGH’S

Local gay boy makes good… smut. An interview with Natty Soltesz by Mack Friedman Natty Soltesz’s first book, Backwoods (QueerMojo Press) is a pulsing collection of short stories about homosex in a small Pennsylvania town. An erotic riff on Sherwood Anderson’s Winesburg, Ohio, Natty’s stories take us through the adventures of married men, a gay couple, hippie guys, vandals and boys who’re just looking for the next ticket out. The writing is truly authentic, soulfully documenting the deliciousness, the awkwardness and the dangers that small-town guys feel when they connect with each other. Mack Friedman wanted to learn more, so he sat Natty down and forced him to talk and wouldn’t take no for an answer. Out: Your book makes me think about a certain type of man, a very masculine, dominant, powerful guy. I’m not always into guys like that but reading about them really turned me. Can you talk a bit about that sort of straight-acting mountain man who has gay sex in a way that’s maybe specific to rural America? Natty Soltesz: I think in rural America, you really have to appear straight if you want to get by. These are closeknit communities, everybody knows everybody, and if you stand out it is not good for you. So in my book there are all these guys who are presenting as straight, who are acting all butch and swaggering around, but then behind closed doors they’re getting their ass fucked. That is such a turn on for me! Like the guy who needs to get his cock sucked because his wife won’t put out. This British writer Mark Simpson said something like the biggest turn on, for him, is when he’s fucking a guy who says to him, “Don’t tell my wife.” It’s all so ridiculous, and in a way it’s unfortunate, but there it is. Some of the characters in the book have gay sex and are okay with it, and some of them are tormented, but even the ones who are comfortable with their sexuality present as straight. I don’t know. Masculinity is just one of those tried-and-true turn-ons. This book is centered on a couple who everyone knows is gay. But you use that set-up, that open secret, to pry open and explore expressions of gay sexuality that are occurring under the radar. Can you talk more about that? I got the idea for the book when I was trick-or-treating with some friends in a small West Virginia town. We stopped at a gay couple’s house, and I started to wonder what their lives were like. Who hated them? Who showed up at their door at 3am? In the book, the gay couple’s house is like this beacon, this landmark. And the fact that there’s a gay couple in the town makes the gay sex that anybody else has seem “less gay”—the open secret makes the closed secrets safer. They can say, “Well, I might be getting fucked in the ass right now, but at least I’m not a faggot like those guys down the street.” Natty, Backwoods is such a unique combination of characterization, situation and hot dirty sex. It was steamy but also really emotiona—I wound up really caring about your characters, which is not what I

expect from most erotica. How do you do it? Oh, how nice of you to say that! Well, as you know I started out writing straight-up dirty sex stories, purely to turn myself on. I still do that, posting stories for free on Nifty.org and on my website (www.bacteriaburger.com). Even from the start I felt like the more realistic the setting and characters are the hotter the story will be, because it’s more identifiable, the readers can put themselves there.

Backwoods is such a unique combination of characterization, situation and hot dirty sex. I feel like this book is just an extension of that, though skewed a little more toward characterization and setting. I hate porn that is just sex—I want a situation I can sink my teeth into. Give me a sailor on leave, a dude whose girlfriend is out of town—anything! So, your book has illustrations. There’s an incredibly sexy quality to them that is a mix between grotesque, surreal, and just plain nasty (in the hottest way you can imagine), like Tom of Finland meets Salvador Dali. Talk about the illustrator and what his work adds to the book. The illustrator is Michael Kirwan and he’s a real pro; he’s been doing illustrations for gay magazines since the early ’80s. I love his work because it’s totally hot but at the same time has this weird, exaggerated quality. Interesting that you use the word “grotesque” because I modeled Backwoods after Winesburg Ohio, which is this classic American novel about a small town, and the author uses the word “grotesque” too, I think, to describe the humanity of these small-town people, their individuality. So there’s this grotesque, very real aspect to the bodies that Michael draws and at the same time they’re in these situations that are pure fantasy, pure sex. Which was sort of what I was trying to do with the narrative, too—have the fantasy amplified by the reality, and vice versa.

You grew up in a small town in Pennsylvania like the one in the book. What was that experience like for you and how does it inform your narrative? For example, there’s a poignant moment in one of your stories about a kid who has come of age in this town and is ready to go and move on to bigger and better things. You got out and moved on. What’s it like for you when you go back? Oh, I guess it was hard growing up gay in a small town, though I wasn’t out until I left, so I sort of repressed it all. Repression is a big one. I grew up pretty sexually repressed, and I don’t put all the blame on my small-town upbringing but it was certainly a factor. I think I started writing porn to sort of declare my sexuality, to stake a claim. The fact of the matter is that I miss my old home town. I love going back because it’s the place I know the best. I feel completely comfortable walking around anywhere because it’s my town. I know the streets like the back of my hand. I’d honestly move back there if it made economic sense. I’d probably go fucking crazy within the first year.

THE SEX GURU

Private acts in public places: turn-on or illegal? by Emerson Evans and Alan Jones Dear Sex Guru, I really love my new boyfriend Eddie. The only problem is that he always wants me to go down on him or eat him in the parking lot, especially supermarkets, shopping plazas or the mall. I have to admit that I get somewhat aroused while doing this, but I am afraid of either getting arrested or humiliated in public. But it’s tough to say no when pinned in the corner of the front velour seat between his bare ass and the windshield. Last time we were doing this, a woman pushing her shopping cart with her three kids stared at me through the smeared windshield of our Toyota Camry. I know that sexual fulfillment is important to a healthy sexual relationship but it’s beginning to drive me crazy. Last week Eddie made me perform fellatio at my cousin’s wedding reception, and that was the last straw. —Baffled Dear Baffled, Before you get arrested, you need to think of some

things. What is it that you like about this type of sex? The exhibitionism? The thrill of getting caught? The smooth and silky velour of the car seat pressed against your naked and sweaty bodies? There are many much more legal alternatives that will fulfill this need. Clothing optional gay campgrounds are a great place for safe exhibitionism. A touch of S&M play could give you the needed thrill you look for. Sex in the closed garage on the velour seats would satisfy your need for the Toyota Camry fetish. Most likely, the two of you have eroticized all of these three aspects at once. So the Sex Guru would recommend that you tie up and gag Eddie naked in the front seat of your car while parked in the middle of the clothing optional camp ground and rim him as he writhes on the car seat in wild ecstasy surrounded by onlookers. This way you get your exhibitionism, thrill and car fetish taken care of all at once in a wild yet legal way! Continued on page 30

OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 29

CMYK

CMYK

PITTSBURGH’S

X-PHILES

HAMLISCH

JAN 26 - 29 · HEINZ HALL

KOZ

Celebrate the music that made movies great!Grammy-nominated saxophonist Dave Koz joins Marvin Hamlisch and your PSO in a concert featuring memorable songs from the silver screen. Hear Marvin’s own Academy Award-winning song, “The Way We Were,” as well as other classics, “Over the Rainbow” from The Wizard of Oz and “Somewhere” from West Side Story. Tap your feet along to music from The Pink Panther, James Bond and more. This concert is pure entertainment! FEATURING MUSIC FROM

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OPINION

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Prop 8’s slow crawl to the US Supreme Court

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by Abby Dees Sometimes I wish lawsuits in real life were more like they are on TV. They’d wrap up in days rather than years, and they wouldn’t spend most of that time in the mindnumbing quagmire known as legal procedure. Such is the case with California’s Prop 8 trial, Perry v. Brown. A quick refresher: Prop 8 is unique among state samesex marriage bans for a number of reasons, perhaps the biggest being that it was found unconstitutional in federal trial court and is now moving, very slowly, through the appeals process. It’s poised to go all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. No other LGBT marriage law has made it this far. This means that California’s 2008 law could determine the fate of same-sex marriage for the whole country. On Nov. 17, we all awoke to the cacophonous news that the California Supreme Court had issued a decision that will take Prop 8 to the next critical phase. Wait, it wasn’t at the top of your newsfeed? CNN didn’t interrupt programming to tell you? OK, so maybe it was just me trawling the LGBT lawwonk websites and an email from Lambda Legal. Still, I can tell you that this is big news for us all. Perhaps the reason you might have missed it is that for the last year Perry v. Brown has been stalled on a somewhat theoretical question of legal procedure. At issue is not any of the arguments about the fairness of Prop 8’s same-sex marriage ban, but rather who should defend it during appeal. Normally, when someone challenges state law, the

Governor and the Attorney General (AG) automatically step in to defend it. But in Perry, Governor (and defendant) Jerry Brown and AG Kamala Harris have offered what I’ll call the “limp noodle” defense. In other words, they’re totally fine with Prop 8 going down in flames on their watch. I think a thank you note to both of them is in order. ProtectMarriage.com, the people who put Prop 8 on the ballot, desperately want to step in since the state won’t—because if no one’s there to defend the law, the marriage ban automatically ends with Judge Vaughn Walker’s 2010 ruling that Prop 8 is unconstitutional. Same-sex marriage would resume in California. And they got their wish last week. Without going into the weird hot-potato specifics of how it came down, the gist is that ProtectMarriage.com gets to defend Prop 8 in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. Same-sex marriage will remain unlawful in California at least until it all gets worked out, maybe two years or more. If I seem happy about this, there’s a reason. As a married lesbian in California I would have been thrilled to see Prop 8 off the books, and our state once again a model of equality. But then we’d have to start all over again somewhere else to tackle marriage equality nationwide, once and for all. I don’t want to wait. There’s an old lawyer adage about Supreme Court cases: good cases make good law. And Perry is definitely a good case. Defense attorneys Olson and Boies built a thorough and nuanced record of exactly why Prop 8 is morally and legally wrong, while the other side looked ignorant and petty.

My God, someone even turned the trial transcript into a play, it so beautifully illuminated the ideal of justice. That perfectly crafted trial record of Perry v. Brown is what the U.S. Supreme Court would be looking at closely to make their ruling. It’s hard to imagine a better foundation for a U.S. Supreme Court victory. Yes, our High Court has never been so far to the right and there is a chance we will lose—a loss that will reverberate for perhaps generations. But two things are painfully clear: First, the Court will only continue to keep moving right; and second, the traditional strategy of fighting for marriage equality in the states is failing us as voters continue to enshrine bigotry into their state constitutions. I don’t believe there will be a better time than now to make our next bold move toward equality. Abby Dees is a civil rights attorney-turned-author who has been in the LGBT rights trenches for 25+ years. She can be reached through her website: queerquestionsstraighttalk.com.

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by Mark Segal This past week was a killer. I participated in a historic conference at the Department of Housing and Urban Development headquarters in Washington, D.C., then headed to New York City for the annual Pennsylvania Society weekend at The Waldorf Astoria. But they both had one thing in common that illustrates a weakness in our LGBT community nationwide. Here are the lessons learned from a week of presentations, meetings, schmoozing and being on display. At the HUD conference, most cities, when presenting their dream or in-the-pipeline projects for LGBT senior/elder housing, bemoaned the fact that there just is no money out there due to budgets cuts, banks not giving loans and/or the recession. That was until Philadelphia stepped up to the podium and explained that there is money out there: It’s just that, as a community, we have not learned how to get our fair share. And it is fair share. We pay taxes and deserve to have our community receive some of those taxes back for our community, just as other communities do. It’s called equality. It should come back in the form of help for the less advantaged in our community or building for the future where there is no safe place presently. Many of the LGBT senior-housing projects, in city after city, have not done their homework on funding. They did not know those magic words that other communities know: economic development. Is the LGBT community getting its fair share of economic development? No! So what is it? When a major project is started, in the announcement they state that part of its funding is from a block grant for economic development. Those funds are various government allotments to localities. Is your project an economic development? Here’s what you need to ask yourself. Does it not supply 100-200 construction jobs while being built? Yes. Carpenters, electricians, plumbers and suppliers of all sorts. And if you partner with your local LGBT chamber of commerce, many of those suppliers can be LGBT or LGBT-friendly. That’s millions of dollars in economic development in your locality and your community. You are also creating new full-time jobs when the project is completed. So the next time you see an elected official announcing a new hotel, community center or convention center, look for the words “economic development grant” and see how many millions of your tax dollars are going to that project. Then start to dream. Have a vision for your community. As I’ve noted previously, it takes political clout to get this done. And in Pennsylvania, we have an opportunity to see the officials who make funding decisions all in one place each year: It’s called The Pennsylvania Society. At last weekend’s annual event, I saw no fewer than eight LGBT political players—out of over 800 attendees. Now this is Pennsylvania, but there are equivalent organizations in every state and every city. Get yourself invited or become a member. Once there, you must be seen and heard. Take the time to chat with your governor at every chance, whether or not you agree with him or her on any given subject. The same goes for the mayor and every other step of the political ladder to funding. We are a strong community, and we can achieve our community’s needs, but we can only do so in the manner that other communities have done so in the past. While

each of us there from the LGBT community last weekend had his or her own agenda, we knew we could call on the others for support if need be: Collectively, we are a force. Not only do we know that, the 800 people present knew that.

Mark Segal, publisher of the Philadelphia Gay News, is one of the nation’s most-award-winning commentators in the LGBT media. He can be reached atmark@epgn.com.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING – WEEKLY

‘Obama, with all his faults’ is still our best choice

“What’s Happening” is compiled from information supplied by business advertisers and event sponsors. Efforts are made to ensure accuracy, but sponsors and readers are urged to inform Out of changes, cancellations and incorrect or outdated listings. Send e-mail to calendar@outonline.com or write to Calendar Editor, Out, 801 Bingham St., Suite 100, Pittsburgh, PA 15203. Consult Out’s “Resources” guide in this issue or at www.outonline.com for addresses and phone numbers of businesses and organizations where not listed.

by Jesse Monteagudo In 1904 the New York Sun published the following one-line endorsement of Theodore Roosevelt, then running for a full term as President of the United States: “Theodore! with all thy faults . . .” What the editors of the Sun were trying to say was that the Republican Roosevelt, though far from perfect, was a better choice than his opponents: Judge Alton B. Parker (Democrat) and Eugene V. Debs (Socialist). T.R. eventually won, carrying most of what were then 45 states, while Parker’s support was limited to the “solid South” (minus Missouri). Like voters before and since, most Americans who voted in 1904 chose the lesser of many evils. In 2008 most Americans, tired of the George W. Bush administration, voted for “Hope and Change” and elected Barack Obama as President. Obama’s election, along with the election of a Democratic Congress, was supposed to usher a new Progressive Age in American politics. That, of course, never happened. The economy, which was bad enough under Bush, only got worse. Obama seemed unable, or unwilling, to exercise the strong leadership needed to pass legislation or change the political culture. Obama could not even sell the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, his most important achievement. By the mid-term elections of 2010, Obama had disillusioned his base, alienated independents and energized the opposition. The result was the grassroots, right-wing movement we know as the Tea Party and an election that gave the GOP the House of Representatives and most state governments. Under our constitutional system of government, no one has his or her own way, and those of us who cheered Obama to victory were fools to think Obama would be our new secular messiah. This was partly due to Obama himself, who promised too many things to too many people. But political leaders, like the world, can break your heart, and Obama disappointed us in ways no other President, not even Jimmy Carter or Bill Clinton, ever could. It’s no wonder that once-progressive individuals who supported the President on his way to the White House are doing little or nothing to help him stay there; some going so far as to back one of his Republican opponents. Among these former fans are many lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender people, who expected Obama to do for us what he promised, only to learn that he is just another politician. Barack Obama’s record on LGBT issues is far from perfect. But he is the most LGBT-friendly President in history, and much better than most of the Republican candidates. Though the President’s views on same-sex marriage are still “evolving”—and how much of that is a ploy to keep the fundamentalist wolves at bay?—he seems to support the rights of lesbian or gay couples in many ways short of the dreaded “M word.” Thanks to Obama (though not as much as he would like us to believe), openly LesBiGay (but not Trans) people can serve in the U.S. armed forces, and HIV+ individuals can enter the US. The Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act expanded the federal hate crimes law to cover sexual orientation and gender identity. A record number of LGBT people have been appointed to executive positions, judgeships and U.S. embassies abroad. Though there are many reasons to criticize Obama, his record on LGBT issues should not be one of them. Like the New York Sun in 1904, I support the President, for all his faults, because he is better than the op-

PAGE 8 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

position. Republican candidates, seeking the votes of the religious right and the Tea Party right, have largely thrown their lot with those who oppose equal rights for LGBT Americans. Not all Republican candidates oppose LGBT rights. GOP candidates Fred Karger—openly gay and ignored— and Gary Johnson—not gay but equally ignored—support all or most LGBT issues; while Jon Huntsman backs civil unions and domestic partnerships. On the other hand, Michelle Bachmann, Newt Gingrich, Ron Paul, Rick Perry, Mitt Romney and Rick Santorum compete against each other to see who is the most homophobic candidate. These candidates and their supporters oppose “gay marriage,” back the return of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and, all in all, want to turn back the clock

as far as we (or anyone else) are concerned. There are other reasons why I plan to vote for Barack Obama in 2012; not because he’s perfect but because he’s the best choice. Will Obama disappoint us again? Perhaps. Most second term Presidents have. On the other hand, what does not kill us politically might make us stronger, and Obama might become a more effective leader in his second term than he’s been in his first term. In a political world of sharp divisions, of the Tea Party and Occupy Wall Street, trying to please everyone, which is what Obama tried to do, is the worst sin. Perhaps he’s learned his lesson.

Radio guest equals homosexuality with pedophilia by D’Anne Witkowski Newsflash: homosexuality and pedophilia are not the same things. Equating the two makes as much sense as equating adopting a pet kitty from a shelter with luring a stray into your yard so you can torture and kill him. Surely anyone who thought the two were the same would be insane. Though they still might be invited to talk on Public Radio International, specifically the To the Point program, when the topics are the Penn State child abuse scandal and same-sex couples adopting kids. Nice juxtaposition there, guys. Special guest on the program was Jerry Cox of the Arkansas Family Council, a group that tried like the dickens to prevent gays and lesbians from being foster parents in Arkansas to no avail. Cox seemed to equate gays wanting to foster or adopt children with Penn State child-rapist Jerry Sandusky (who fostered kids in the past). Not that this comparison makes sense, but that’s not Cox’s job. His job is to spew anti-gay invective whenever a microphone gets near his face. “I find it interesting that we talk about the Penn State situation, and then when we talk about other situations where certain categories of people say it’s our right to adopt, it’s our right to be a foster parent, in both of those situations the rights of children seem to be put in second place,” Cox said. Let’s crack the code. “Certain categories of people” most certainly means gays. And when he says “in both of these situations” Cox is clearly equating letting a known child-rapist foster children with allowing gay people to foster children. In only one of these “situations” are the rights and needs of a child “in second place.” Hint: it’s the child being fostered by the child rapist and second place is far too high of a finish. Last place is more like it. For Cox, the most important things to look for in a foster family are one penis and one vagina. “If you have a same-sex couple with an adopted child, what you’re in effect saying is that moms don’t matter or dads don’t matter,” he said. “Little girls grow up, little boys grow up and they need both of those role models to grow up in a balanced way.” Mind you, Sandusky is a married-to-a-woman man, which means his family structure meets these criteria. What Cox means by balanced, I don’t know. Perhaps he’s worried two moms will teach a boy to pee sitting down or two dads might teach a girl to pee standing up. When To the Point hosts suggested that children would perhaps be better off in a house with same-sex par-

ents rather than languishing in the foster care system, Cox rejected the notion. “Sometimes we sound as if those are the only two choices,” Cox said. “It’s like, child be institutionalized or be in a same-sex home or cohabiting home, or whatever. And I’d like to challenge this a little bit, to raise our sights a little bit, and say, you know, the state surely can do better than that.” Yeah, stupid state. Being stuck in an orphanage on one hand, living in a household with two stable and loving foster parents who happen to be gay on the other. It’s like Sophie’s choice! Of course, says Cox, those aren’t the only options. “With all the millions of stable homes that are out there, surely the state of California, the state of Pennsylvania, the state of Arkansas, wherever we are, surely we can find stable homes with a married mom and dad for these children,” he said. Got that? There are millions of homes with stable one-penis-one-vagina structures oh so perfect for foster children. The problem is they’re apparently very well hidden. We’re just not looking hard enough. So come out, come out wherever you are. Cox has a pick-up truck full of kids with your (heterosexual only, please) names all over it.

Every Sunday in January

•Male dancers: P-Town, Real Luck Café. •Steeler Game Sunday Party: Real Luck Café. Free buffet, souvenirs, prizes. Info: 412-471-7832. •Worship: Metropolitan Community Church. Friends Meeting House, Shadyside. 7pm. Info: 412-683-2994. •Worship: Dignity. Roman Catholic mass followed by social. Church of the Redeemer, 5700 Forbes Ave., Squirrel Hill. 7pm. Info: 412-362-4334. •Worship: Gay-welcoming Holy Eucharist. St. Andrew Lutheran Church, 304 Morewood Ave., Shadyside. 11am. Info: 412-682-3342. •Worship: Allegheny Open Arms United Church of Christ, 707 East St., North Side. 10:30am, Info: 412-321-1328, www.alleghenyopenarms.org. •Worship: OneChurch. Bricolage Theater, 937 Liberty Ave., downtown. 1pm. Info: 412-390-5400. •Worship: Community House Presbyterian Church, 120 Parkhurst St, North Side. 10:45am. 412-321-3900. •Meditation, worship: Pittsburgh Center for Spiritual Living, 5655 Bryant St., Highland Park. 10am. Info: 412-362-5096, www.oneintruth.com. •YOGA with Mike! GLCC. 4:30-6:30pm. 412-422-0114.

Every Monday in January

•Male Dancers: Real Luck Café. •Rapid oral HIV testing: Pittsburgh AIDS Task Force, 5913 Penn Ave., East Liberty. 9am-5pm. Info: 412-345-7456, www.patf.org. •TransPitt phone line: 7-9:30pm. Info: 412-454-5557 or transpitt_org@yahoo.com. •Recovery: Into Action AA, Church of the Redeemer, 5700 Forbes Ave., Squirrel Hill. 7:30pm. •Support: Sex, Love Addicts Anonymous: Calvary Episcopal Church, Shady Av-

enue and Walnut Street, Shadyside. 7pm. Info: 412-441-0956.

Every Tuesday in January

•Male dancers: Images. 6-8pm, 10:30pm. •Frontrunners: meet at Columbus statue in Schenley Park, 7pm; run at 7:10pm. Info: 412-481-5549, www.pittsburgh-frontrunners.org. •Worship: supper, 6pm; gay-welcoming Holy Eucharist, 7pm. St. Andrew Lutheran Church, 304 Morewood Ave., Shadyside. Info: 412-682-3342. •Support: Just for Today AA, First United Methodist Church, Centre and South Aiken Avenues, Shadyside. 7:30pm. •Radio: This Way Out. WYEP 91.3. 7:30pm. •Buddy Night at Club Pittsburgh. 412-471-6790.

Every Wednesday in January

•Karaoke: P-Town. •Dinner: Shepherd Wellness Community. 6pm. 412-683-4477 or www.swconline.org. •Flying Colors GLBT bicycle riding group: meet at statue in front of Phipps Conservatory, Oakland; rides depart at 6:45pm. Info: send e-mail to pghbikeguy@verizon.net. •Gospel singing: with the OneVoice Choir. Wood Street Galleries, Sixth and Wood Streets, downtown. 6:30pm. Info: 412-281-4655. •Recovery: Gay, Lesbian, Friends AA. Fayette County Health Center, 100 New Salem Rd., Uniontown. 8pm. Info: 724-439-3173. •Recovery: Sober as Folk AA. Church of the Redeemer, 5700 Forbes Ave., Squirrel Hill. 7:30pm. Info: 412-373-3739. •Support: Sex, Love Addicts Anonymous. West View United Methodist Church, Princeton and Center Avenues, West View. 12:15pm; St. Peter’s Church, 720 Arch St., North Side. 6:30pm. Info: 412-441-0956. •Nude Male Yoga. 7pm. 115 Sedgewick Street, Millvale. •Male dancers: Real Luck Café, P-Town.

Every Thursday in January

•Positive OUTlook. Health issues in the LGBT community. 1pm. www.outonline.com. •Karaoke: Images. 9:30pm. •Rapid oral HIV testing: by Pittsburgh AIDS Task Force. Women only: Miryam’s,

1410 Fifth Ave., Uptown, 11am-3pm; all welcome: GLCC, 6-9pm. Info: 412-2422500, www.patf.org. •Frontrunners: meet at Columbus statue in Schenley Park, 7pm; run at 7:10pm. Info: 412-481-5549, www.pittsburgh-frontrunners.org. •Recovery: Celebrate Sobriety AA, First Unitarian Church, Ellsworth and Morewood Avenues, Oakland. 8pm; Beaver County AA/NA meeting, 2pm, Info: 724-375-0760. •Free rapid HIV testing, 6-9pm, GLCC, 412-422-0114. •Yoga for HIV+ people. 5:15pm. Shepherd Wellness Center. 412-683-4477.

Every Friday in January

•Deep, Dark and Naked Fridays. Club Pittsburgh. 412-471-6790. •Male dancers: Images, Real Luck Café, and P-Town. •Recovery: New Hope, beginners and regular AA, Church of the Redeemer, 5700 Forbes Ave., Squirrel Hill, 7pm; Joy of Living AA, Trinity Lutheran Church, North and Buena Vista Avenues, North Side, 8pm; Rainbow Bridge NA meeting, Persad Center, 7pm. •Support: Sex, Love Addicts Anonymous; East Liberty Presbyterian Church, 116 S. Highland Ave. 7:30pm. 412-441-0956. •HIV Wellness Dinner; 6pm; Shepherd Wellness Center, 412-683-4477 or www.swconline.org. Check for weekly location. •Youth Drop-In. GLCC. 7-10pm. 412-422-0114. •Good Fridays. Half price admission and cash bar. The Andy Warhol Museum. 5pm-10pm.

Every Saturday in January

•Frontrunners: meet at Columbus statue, Schenley Park. 9am; run at 9:10am. Info: 412-481-5549, www.pittsburgh-frontrunners.org. •Support: Sex, Love Addicts Anonymous. Carnegie Library, South 22nd and Carson Streets, South Side. 10:30am. Info: 412-441-0956. •Male Dancers: Real Luck Café, P-Town. •Request Night, Club Pittsburgh. 11pm. 412-471-6790. Due to space restrictions, Out’s “What’s Happening” calendar of events is unable to list cocktail/happy hours, beverage and complimentary food specials and most complimentary entertainment/games. Most businesses with the necessary facilities feature disc jockeys/dancing nightly when open. Check the ads in this issue for complete information regarding activities at area businesses.

WHAT’S HAPPENING – DAY BY DAY Sunday, January 1

• STAGE: Defending the Caveman through January 15. CLO Cabaret. • ART: A Retrospective of the Art of Dan Stout through January 27. GLCC. 412422-0114. •DINNER: New Year’s Day Dinner for persons experiencing homelessness. 3:30pm. Morgantown Bus Depot. Morgantown, WV. 304-985-0021.

Monday, January 2

January 10. United Methodist Church. www.pittsburghprimetimers.com. •DEADLINE: February 2012. News to Pittsburgh’s Out. 412-381-3350 or out@outonline.com.

Tuesday, January 24

Friday, January 13

Wednesday, January 25

•DEADLINE: February 2012. Display advertising, calendar information to Pittsburgh’s Out. 412-381-3350 or out@outonline.com.

Saturday, January 14

Tuesday, January 3

• BINGO: Outrageous Bingo, sponsored by Pittsburgh’s Out, benefits GLCC and Shepherd Wellness Community. Doors open at 6:30pm, games begin at 7:30pm. Rodef Shalom, Oakland. 412-422-0114. •PARTY: Black & White Party, with Sasha and India Ferrah from RuPaul’s Drag Race . Vice Versa. www.viceversaclub.com.

Wednesday, January 4

•See weekly events for every Sunday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more.

Thursday, January 5

•See weekly events for every Monday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more.

Friday, January 6

•See weekly events for every Tuesday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more.

Saturday, January 7

• FILM: Movie Night for HIV+ people. 6pm movie. Shepherd Wellness Community, Bloomfield. 412-683-4477.

• MINI GOLF: Fore! The Planet. 18 holes of mini-golf while learning about the environment. Daily. Linvilla Orchards, Media, PA. www.linvilla.com. • MEETING: HIV & Aging Discussion Group for HIV+ people. 5:15 Meal; 6pm discussion. Shepherd Wellness Community, Bloomfield. 412-683-4477. •See weekly events for every Tuesday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more. • THERAPY: Hypnotherapy for HIV+ people. 6pm class. Shepherd Wellness Community, Bloomfield. 412-683-4477. • STAGE: Laugh Out Loud with The Second City comedy troupe through January 7. Pittsburgh Public Theater. 412-316-1600. •See weekly events for every Friday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more. •See weekly events for every Saturday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more.

Sunday, January 15

Monday, January 16

Tuesday, January 17

Wednesday, January 18 Thursday, January 19

Sunday, January 8

• STAGE: As You Like It through February 19. Pittsburgh Public Theater. 412316-1600. •DINNER: Pittsburgh Prime Timers Dine-Out. RSVP by January 17. Sesame Inn. www.pittsburghprimetimers.com.

Monday, January 9

Friday, January 20

•PARTY: Steel City Fetish Night. Starting @ 7pm with Steel City Bondage Club. Club Pittsburgh, Strip District. www.clubpittsburgh.com.

Tuesday, January 10

•PARTY: Lez Liquor Hour. 5:30pm-10pm.Cruze Bar. www.cruzebar.com. •DEADLINE: February 2012. Classified advertising to Pittsburgh’s Out. 412-381-3350 or out@outonline.com.

Wednesday, January 11

• STAGE: The Agony & Ecstasy of Steve Jobs. 8pm. Byham Theater. 412-4566666.

• MEETING: HIV & Aging Discussion Group for HIV+ people. 5:15 Meal; 6pm discussion. Shepherd Wellness Community, Bloomfield. 412-683-4477.

LGBT teens share hope, dreams

•See weekly events for every Tuesday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more.

Members of the Dreams of Hope Youth Performance Troupe will be performing at the August Wilson Center for African American Culture in the free preview show Being In, Being Out on Jan. 22 from 4-6pm. The show highlights the hopes and dreams of LGBT and allied youth through spoken word, movement, drama, percussion and song.

• CLASS: Ceramics Class for HIV+ people. 5:15 Meal; 6pm class. Shepherd Wellness Community, Bloomfield. 412-683-4477. •MEETING: ALPHA Membership Meeting. 7pm. PATF Offices. alphapittsburgh@gmail.com.

Thursday, January 12

•DINNER: Pittsburgh Prime Timers Monthly Social/Potluck Supper. RSVP by

•See weekly events for every Tuesday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more. •See weekly events for every Wednesday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more.

Thursday, January 26

• STAGE: Marvin & the Movies with saxophone legend Dave Koz through January 29. Heinz Hall. 412-392-4900. • STAGE: Spring Awakening through February 4. Byham Theater. 412-4566666.

Friday, January 27

•SHOW: Work. Fierce. Over Aviance! Live performance by Kevin Aviance. No cover/21+. Cruze Bar. www.cruzebar.com.

Saturday, January 28

•DINNER: Pittsburgh Prime Timers Breakfast Social for members and guests. 10:00am. Ritter’s Diner. www.pittsburghprimetimers.com. •SHOW: Leather & Levi’s Fetish, with Raging Stallion Exclusive Jason Michaels, hosted by Chi Chi Ray Colby . Vice Versa. www.viceversaclub.com.

Sunday, January 29

•See weekly events for every Sunday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more.

Monday, January 30

•See weekly events for every Monday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more.

Tuesday, January 31

• STAGE: Billy Elliot through February 12. Benedum Center. 412-456-4800.

“Nightlife”

… your guide to the month’s best bar/club events

Saturday, January 21 Sunday, January 22

• STAGE: Being In, Being Out. 4pm-6pm. FREE. August Wilson Center for African American Culture, Liberty Ave. 412-315-9914.

Monday, January 23

only in PITTSBURGH’S

• MEETING: HIV & Aging Discussion Group for HIV+ people. 5:15 Meal; 6pm discussion. Shepherd Wellness Community, Bloomfield. 412-683-4477.

OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 25

CMYK

CMYK

OPINION

OUT AND ABOUT

FEATURE

Get connected to those in the know The sound of movies The M2M Project offers a safe and confidential place for men to get information on HIV testing, substance use and safe sex. Receive up to $140 in gift cards for participating. Text FndOut to 76274 or call 412-804-1725.

You’ve got to express yourself Let your inner child dance along with Tony awardwinning Billy Elliot: The Musical from Jan. 31 through Feb. 12 at the Benedum Center. Tickets are available by calling 412-456-4800 or online at trustarts.org.

Spring comes early this year Behold the joy of spring this winter as Pittsburgh Musical Theater presents Spring Awakening: A New Musical from Jan. 26-Feb. 4 at the Byham Theater. For ticket information call 412-456-6666 or pittsburghmusicals.com/springawakening.

NIGHTLIFE Get the party started in W Va The parties keep coming at Vice Versa, Morgantown’s hottest night club. January events include the Black & White Party on Jan. 14 with Sasha and India Ferrah from RuPaul’s Drag Race. Then on Jan. 28 Chi Chi Ray Colby hos’s Leather & Levi’s Fetish with Raging Stallion exclusive star Jason Michaels. Vice Versa is at 335 High St. in Morgantown, WV.

Don’t miss any of the Steelers action on the 8-foot screen at Real Luck Café, a gay bar for men and women, at 1519 Penn Ave. in the Strip District. Game days include free souvenirs, free buffet and the chance to win a Big Ben autographed football. Hot male dancers strut their stuff nightly Wednesdays-Sundays. Start the New Year right on Jan. 1 at 5pm with free Alka-Seltzer and aspirin, nude male dancers and a free sauerkraut and kielbasa buffet.

Be grateful for the Steelers... …and that you can watch them play at 5801 on Ellsworth. Catch all the action in HD. Doors open Sundays at 12:30pm for 1pm games and at 3:30pm for 4pm kickoffs. Don’t miss daily happy hours from 6-8pm. 5801 is open Monday-Saturday at 4pm. The video lounge and café is located at 5801 Ellsworth Ave.

It’s time for a Cruze

There’s a website that addresses the specific needs of lesbians of color. It’s OurSistaCircle. Meet and discuss issues unique to lesbians of color, such as sexual orientation, gender, class and race. Check it out at www.oursistacircle.com and chat with women from all over the world.

Steve Jobs is Off the Wall

B-I-N-G-O!

The Andy Warhol Museum presents The Agony and the Ecstasy of Steve Jobs, the first show in the 2012 season of the Off The Wall performance series, on Jan. 21 at the Byham Theater. The show stars critically acclaimed writer and commentator Mike Daisey, and ticket information is available at 412-456-6666 or online at www.pgharts.org.

Book your table and get your cards because it’s time for OUTrageous Bingo at 6:30pm on Jan. 14. “It ain’t your grandma’s bingo…but bring her anyhow” to Rodef Shalom in Oakland. Reserve your table now at 412-4220114.

Laugh away your winter blues

Shepherd Wellness Community is there to help members of the HIV+ community with meals, films, free classes, yoga, discussion groups and more. Find out their full slate of activities—or how you can volunteer—by calling them at 412-683-4477 or visit www.scwonline.org.

The Pittsburgh Public Theater presents two shows to tickle your funny bone this winter. The Second City troupe stars in Laugh Out Loud! Jan. 5 and 6 at 8pm and Jan. 7 at 5:30 and 9pm. Then Ted Pappas directs Shakespeare’s As You Like It, which will be showing from Jan. 19 thru Feb. 19. Tickets are available at 412316-1600 or ppt.org.

Prime Timers set Jan. events Pittsburgh Prime Timers is holding its monthly social/potluck supper at the United Methodist Church on Jan. 12. RSVP by January 10. On Jan. 19 they will dine out at Sesame Inn in Mt. Lebanon. RSVP by Jan. 17. The monthly breakfast at Ritter’s Diner will be on Jan. 28 at 10am. Meet in the parking lot.

Putter and learn about nature Learn all about the environment while playing miniature golf at Linnvilla Orchard’s Fore! The Planet, an 18-hole interactive indoor mini-golf course, in Media, PA. Open Sun.-Thurs. 9am-5pm and Fri. and Sat. 9am-8pm. Closed January 1. For more information visit www.linvilla.com.

You can’t keep a Caveman down Due to popular demand Pittsburgh CLO has extended the run of Defending the Caveman through Jan. 15 at the CLO Cabaret. In addition, two Sunday evening performances have been added on Jan. 8 and 15 at 7pm. Event tickets are available online or by calling 412-4566666.

A sensitive Man

Don’t miss the boat—head down to Cruze Bar in January. Stop in for a libation on Jan. 20 at the Lez Liquor Hour, 5:30-10pm. Then return Jan. 27 to see Work. Fierce. Over Aviance! a live performance by Kevin Aviance at 11pm. Cruze Bar is located at 1600 Smallman St. in the Strip District.

Check out a showing of local artist Dan Stout’s work at the Gay and Lesbian Community Center’s exhibit: A Sensistive Artist, the Work of Dan Stout. The exhibit runs through Jan. 27. The GLCC is located at 210 Grant St. in downtown Pittsburgh, or online at www.glccpgh.org.

New Year’s resolution: stop in at Club Pittsburgh

Persad offices open in Erie

DJ Billy will play your requests every Saturday night in January at Club Pittsburgh. Get tied up at Steel City Fetish Night on Jan. 8 starting at 7pm. Check out www.clubpittsburgh.com for events and weekly specials happening in January at Club Pittsburgh, located at 1139 Penn Avenue, downtown.

PAGE 24 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

Bringing 40 years of professional, confidential and non-judgmental counseling experience, the Persad Center is now open in Erie. Persad offers help with relationships, emotional problems, coping with HIV/AIDS, sexual identity issues, gender transitions, issues of aging, youth and family conflicts, etc. Call 814-864-9064 or go online to www.persadcenter.org.

SWC has it all

Holiday Meal for the homeless Start the New Year off right with Caritas House, which will be sponsoring a New Year’s Day dinner for homeless individuals on Jan. 1 at 3:30pm at the Morgantown Bus Depot in Morgantown, WV. Volunteers are needed to help serve—just arrive at the depot at 3:30pm.

Share in Dreams for the future Local LGBT and allied youth will be sharing their experience and hopes at the August Wilson Center in their free show Being In, Being Out on Jan. 22, 4-6pm. The first show of the 2012 Season for Dreams of Hope Youth Performance Troupe includes spoken word, movement, drama, percussion and song. The August Wilson Center for African American Culture is located at 980 Liberty Ave. in downtown Pittsburgh.

Organization offers welcoming community to LGBT families Continued from page 1

and has since grown to around 45 families. The group meets locally for monthly potluck dinners and other social events and serves as a network of support for common issues and resources. “It’s been really helpful for me to see other gay people who have chosen to become parents,” Dennis said. “Through my own coming-out process it seemed, as a woman, it was expected that I have kids, but then I thought ‘Maybe I couldn’t.’ The group really helped that.” The social support Dennis and other members describe is two-fold: support for the parents and support for the children. While Dennis feels the main focus is often on the parents because “if the adults are healthy, the kids will be healthy, too,” the group also provides the children with other examples of similar families. “You can read them all the books you want,” she said, referring to children’s books like Heather Has Two Mommies, “but kids also need to see it and have friends that relate.” FLO member Bill Gesin agrees. “It shows a little variety in families, so our son sees that it exists, even if it isn’t always the norm,” said Gesin, who along with his partner has a 20-month old son. Gesin said joining FLO was important to him because most of the same-sex parents he knew before joining last year were out of state, while he and his partner wanted some local support and examples for their son. However, Janice Anderson, an original FLO member who with her partner was the first lesbian couple to have a second-parent adoption in Allegheny County, jokes that sometimes the parents worry more than they need to. She recalls a story where when her son was very young and kept asking for something that sounded like his “deddi.” Thinking he was asking for his “daddy,” she and her partner, Pat, frantically worked to provide their son with a narrative of his biological family and how he came to have two mothers. Later, they found out he was really asking for something that sounded more like “sgetti”—or, spaghetti. Dennis also feels the group of gay parents is essential to many LGBT people who may feel that they have given up some of their gay identity and community for a new type of life. “You start to step into this new realm,” she said, “where you don’t stay out late, you don’t go to bars, but you stay in and have family movie nights. The group has really helped us not to feel isolated.” In fact, not feeling isolated was a key reason Diana Polson, her partner and their 3 year-old child joined the group. After living in the San Francisco Bay area, the couple was really hesitant about how they would be received and supported in Pittsburgh. Luckily, Polson said, they had their eye on FLO before they even moved this summer and have been pleased with the amount of social support and resources the group has provided them with. In addition to the social events like monthly potlucks, cookie exchanges and camping trips, Dennis also said the group provides shared resources for dentists, lawyers, doctors, contractors, etc. “Anything a GLBT family could need a referral to, we have it on the list,” she said. The group, especially through its Facebook page, also offers a giveaway section where members can pass along baby/kid items that others may need. Members can also discuss common issues like secondparent adoptions, artificial insemination, legal hurdles and

the works. To join FLO, Dennis recommends either attending a monthly potluck or connecting with members first through the group’s Facebook page—which is closed to the general public only for the privacy of its members.

Dennis just asks that members be LGBT people who either already have children or are looking to do so soon. To reach out to one of the group leaders, visit: http://www.facebook.com/groups/FamiliesLikeOurs/.

You’re Sexier with your eyes open.

CMYK

CMYK

May this year be the luckiest

Check it out

Take a trip through movie music history Jan. 26-29 at Heinz Hall when the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra’s PNC Pops! presents Marvin and the Movies with saxophone legend Dave Koz and conducted by Marvin Hamlisch. For information and tickets call 412-392-4900 or go online at pittsburghsymphony.org.

Get connected to the M2M Project for the info you need to stay strong and sexy by texting the number below. The M2M Project gives men a safe and confidential place to find information about HIV testing, substance use and safe sex. You can even earn up to $140 in gift cards for participating.

Talk to someone who knows where you’re coming from.

Text FndOut to 76274 or call 412.804.1725.

OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 9

STARGAYZER

For those looking to 2012: the future is queer Continued from page 21

Libras can be very efficient at getting small tasks out of the way. Now look at the big picture by working on projects that have long term impact and benefits. This can be job related but it can also involve health and diet. If you are going to be a corporate rat on a treadmill you might as well consider it exercise.

Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

How much fun can a queer Scorp have without getting into mischief? Ah there is always a catch! Eat, drink and be very merry and see how far your good looks, talents and creativity can get you. For some it will be to the top of the party list. For others it may be in creating a personal masterpiece. Whatever it is, do it with flair... or fog and mirrors.

It ain’t your grandma’s bingo…but bring her anyhow!

Sagittarus (Nov. 23-Dec. 22)

Plan some long deferred home renovations and overall improvements. You need to get your ship in ship-shape for the hordes of expected and unexpected friends and family who cruise through during the year. For those gay Archers who prefer to lounge around the house in peace and quiet, forgetaboutit. There are too many lounge lizards raiding your refrigerator.

SATURDAY th

Capricorn (Dec. 23-Jan. 20)

th

Jan. 14 • Feb. 11 Mar. 10th • Apr. 28th

If you have an opinion or five be prepared to blurt it out and explain yourself. Some of your more inflammatory

A COUPLE OF GUYS

Aquarius (Jan. 21-Feb. 19)

As thrifty as you strive to be, there will be some expensive temptations tossed in your path this year. Will you be swayed to spend? Loosening up your money belt and showing your green may not be a bad thing on occasion, Aqueerius. You only live once, as far as we know. Why live it on yesterday’s chopped meat when you can afford today’s sirloin?

Pisces (Feb. 20-March 20) For those Guppies who agitate best in the background, be warned that this year all of your assorted antics are on full display and in public view. Anything you do or say can turn up on the front pages... or the gossip column. So fine tune your personal message, update your “look” and adhere to the rules of press and publicity. Then stand back world. For Entertainment Purposes Only. © 2012 THE STARRY EYE, LLC., All Rights Reserved. Lichtenstein’s blog www.thestarryeye.typepad.com covers everything new age. Her astrology book HerScopes; A Guide To Astrology For Lesbians is the best in tongue-in-cheek astrology. Order now at tinyurl.com/herscopes

IN WITH THE OUT CROWD

World AIDS Day events continued Continued from page 22

a small social gathering at the end, and you can burn up to 500- 600 calories, depending on how hard you work during a session. The nudity helps you break through the ego and become more comfortable with yourself. Personally I was comfortable in my Armani Jacket, but that’s just my

level of comfort. At the party: Chris Shelton, Scott Smith, Dave Marshall, Craig Melichar and Pittsburgh’s former Survivor celebrity, Chett Welch. Happy Holidays to everyone! Email invites, social events and rumors, or just say hi: john@outonline.com

BITTER GIRL

SITE

Rodef Shalom in Oakland

CMYK

CMYK

Doors open at 6:30 PM Games begin at 7:30 PM

ideas gain ground and take root. Suddenly folks are listening to what you say and follow your lead. A political reformer is formed. What will you do with this new found influence? Will you use it for goodness or nastiness. Oh, let’s guess.

4905 Fifth Avenue Entrance from parking lot between Devonshire St. & Morewood Ave.

TICKETS $12 in advance from OUTlet sponsors: • Banner Coin Exchange • Klavon’s Ice Cream Parlor • On Line at glccpgh.org or $15 at the door.

For more information or table reservations, call the GLCC at 412-422-0114. Table reservations are for advance-purchased tickets only and will not be held past 7:00pm Event proceeds benefit the Gay & Lesbian Community Center and the Shepherd Wellness Community. OUTrageous Bingo conducted by permit to Shepherd Wellness Community.

PAGE 10 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

Print Media Sponsor:

OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 23

IN WITH THE OUT CROWD

A GAY BAR FOR MEN AND WOMEN

Variety of events coincide with World AIDS Day Also that evening, Educating Teens About HIV/AIDS sponsored the 7th annual Red Ribbon Gala at the Omni William Penn. The project was developed by Kezia L. Ellison while in high school as a project for the PA Governor’s School for Excellence in Health Care. The next evening the play Looking for Magic premiered at the University of Pittsburgh’s Henry Heymann Theater, with support from the Pitt Men’s Study, the LAMBDA Foundation and the Actor’s Co-Op. Based on playwright Beverly Pollock’s loss of her two sons to AIDS, the play was a moving tribute to their memory and surprisingly filled with humor. Also that night, Sheppard Wellness Community held its annual Friends of Wellness dinner with help from the Delta Foundation. A sumptuous holiday meal was served, headed up by Gary Van Horn—he cooks and teaches cooking, who knew? The meal, which put my family holiday dinner to shame, was one of the best meals I’ve enjoyed in a long time. The Friends of Wellness dinner was started by Herb Beatty, Donny Thinnes and Bill Kaelin 27 years ago when all they had to feed was about 32 people. This year the room was packed. Seen at the press conference were Richard Smith, Ted Hover, Jim Sheppard and Judy Sylvester. At the Red Ribbon Gala: Ruthie King, Charles Christen, Harry Blackwell, Sabrina Clark, Allen Brown and Vince Simms. And at Looking for Magic: Brian Rohleder, Dory Perry, Buzz Puzateri, Hugh McGough, Rick Allison, Ed Motznik and Jim, Marc Wagner and his partner Brian, Jan Carlino, Joseph Plummer, Sarah Mohr, Rich Vin- Cladera’s final performance ski and Cyndee Klemanski. On Dec. 3, Three Rivers Leather Club held its annual toy drive at Leather Central for Allegheny Youth Services. The toy drive is led by an enthusiastic Ky Eaton who was spotted at several other bars and clubs trying to raise funds for the kids. A leather flea market and raffle were held the night I stopped by. Seen at the fund raiser: Jessi Strucaly, Jim McGoldric, Matthew Bronson, Doc and Rege Maloney. Also that night, the annual SPARK party, a fundraiser for the Delta Foundation, was held at Bill Chisnell Productions Studio on Penn Avenue downtown. It was at this moment that I realized I was no longer being stalked by Chris Bryan—my new stalker is Gary Van Horne. RAJA, the 3rd season winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race was the featured performer. Gorgeous, talented and low maintenance, she posed for the cameras with everyone on the street. Miss Marsha Monster Mellow was even

PAGE 22 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

getting chummy with her—and Raja’s just as tall as Marsha. Seen at Spark: Tom Freggens, Tony Grecco, Lola Laquoix, Jessica Levine and John McMarland. On Dec. 10 the 35th annual Miss Gay Pittsburgh Contest was held at There Ultra Lounge on Liberty Ave. Hosted by the ever so lovely Kierra Darshall, it was standing room only as Geogia B. Cummings, Ann Fu Yung, Miraha Black Dickerson, Lady Diamond and Celine Dashawn competed for the crown. The gowns were gorgeous, the hairdos as high as the contestants’ hopes. A bevy of Pittsburgh’s finest drag performers were on hand, watching and participating in the show. Mr. Leather Fetish 2011 Matthew Bronson along with last year’s Mr. Leather Fetish “Dean” were brought on stage to speak. After the judges tallied their votes, the new Miss Gay Pittsburgh is: Celine Dashawn. Congratulations to all the contestants and thanks for a fun evening. The Renaissance City Choirs held their annual holiday performance on Dec. 10 at the Carnegie Music Hall in Oakland. Titled “Don we now our gay apparel,” the concert featured fan favorites like the “12 Days of Christmas” with audience participation and with past choir members joining the current members on stage to sing, which I always find touching and usually start crying. I cried a lot that night, more on that in a minute. In Act 2, which has also become a tradition, the Edgewood Symphony Orchestra joins the choir and it is truly a magical experience. Which means more tears. And, of course, the choir performed their signature comedic numbers, including this year’s “Veronica” featuring soloist Cookie Gibbs singing about all she wanted for Hanukah was Veronica; “Shalom Santa” with soloist Chad Elder, who is very charming in a boyish way, singing about his Catholic and Jewish upbringing and the foibles of celebrating two holidays; and what may have been the Men’s Choir’s best piece ever, “Thriller Christmas,” complete with Michal Jackson moves and words adapted for the holiday season to the famous Jackson song. I was not the only one crying that night. An important announcement was made, Artistic Director Andres Cladera and his partner George Kacenga are in the process of leaving Pittsburgh and heading off for new adventures in Denver, Colorado. Cladera’s talents and personality will be missed. It was so very painful to watch him say goodbye. I’m a big fan and friend. He bid his farewell and told how the RCC helped him become more open about his sexuality to his friends and family, and he has become empowered enough to tell his father that it’s OK to be gay. I have never had that conversation with my father, and I applaud you Andres. He then addressed the children in the audience, telling them if you ever hear anyone talk bad about a gay person, “You tell them to stop.” A very moving moment—OK, I’m crying again as I write this. Thank you Andres for your soulful and playful contributions and George for your kindness and friendship over the years. We all wish you well. And I have to mention some of the events that took place back in November, which we couldn’t include in our last issue because of our earlier deadline. Nov. 17 kicked off the opening of Microscopic Opera’s newest production, Three Decembers. Written by Jake Heggie, this chamber opera is about a “typical” dysfunctional family in San Francisco, spanning three decades of their lives. Performed at the Pittsburgh Opera, the show was directed by Lisa Ann Goldsmith and features Mary Gold as celebrated actress and matriarch Madeline Mitchell. The daughter Beatrice (played by Eric Olden) is in an unsatisfying marriage and has taken to the bottle. Son Charlie (played by Daniel Teadt), whose lover is dying

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from AIDS, is coming to terms with his homosexuality. Consisting of three vignettes, each one ends in utter sadness and despair. Sounds like Christmas with the family. Microscopic Opera was founded by Erica Olden and Andres Cladera to create innovative, moving and intimate productions of contemporary chamber opera. I’ve found their productions to be good primers for those who would like to learn more about opera. On Nov. 26, Sharon Needles and troupe performed in another outrageous drag show at the Blue Moon—they perform there on a regular basis. This time up their take off Sister Act, repurposed as Sister Axe, a satanic musical comedy featured Needles, Alaska Thvnderfvck Amy Vodkahaus, Veruca la’Piranha and Cherri Baum: the show was a sellout. The show was hilarious. Thanks to Blue Moon for doubling as a performance venue for the “girls.” And on Nov. 30, the Pittsburgh nude male yoga group held their annual holiday party “Bare as You Dare” at their studio space in Millville. The group which usually has practice in the space each Wednesday opted to socialize that evening. I took this opportunity to ask many questions about nude yoga and nude gatherings in general, as Pittsburgh has become Celine Dashawn such a hotbed of nude parties and bar outings (private). The party was fun, the men were in various states of dress and undress, and after a while you don’t even notice the nakedness. (OK so the eyes still tend to look down at times.) I took the opportunity to talk with yoga instructors Gene Evangelist and Ian Price to remind me why yoga and nudity go together. Two years ago I tried nude yoga myself but wasn’t sure if it was for me. The yoga classes run 90 minutes with Continued on page 23

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1519 PENN AVE. (STRIP DISTRICT) 412-471-7832 OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 11

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Contined from page 1

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STARGAYZER

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For those looking to 2012: the future is queer by Charlene Lichtenstein Ring a few bells for the end of 2011 and for the expectation of a great 2012. And why not? The planets to watch are lucky Jupiter and inspirational Neptune as they change signs mid-year and provide fodder for our future happiness. Drama becomes dramady and revolutions revolve and evolve. Not a moment too soon.

Aries (March 21-Apil 20)

Secrets and behind the scenes romances fill your world. It is all at once delightful and somewhat stressful. How will you keep track of all of this hidden stuff? The answer is that you won’t. But then again there are some things that just need to be revealed. Learn to go with the cosmic flow in 2012. Gay Rams sparkle in a crowd. All the better to showcase your assets.

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What is it that you really want from the new year? Perhaps connection? Get out of your shell and mix it up with some platonic pals. The upcoming months will become increasingly socia-Bull with you in the epicenter of the action. Of course that means greater responsibility to help plan the goings on and the costs associated with funding good times. Start to save now....

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

What is it that you want out of your career? Are you content to be where you are or do you have designs on the executive suite? There is nothing wrong with ambition. In fact, ambition is what can catapult you upward. It is time to focus on your ultimate corporate game plan. Making

the right moves now will help you slide into a cushy retirement later.

Cancer (June 22-July 23)

Any long distance travel has its crazy and dizzy adventures, so be prepared to take the circuitous route to wherever. But that is what makes life so exciting! Gay Crabs are naturally friendly and now your schmoozability glides you into various inner sanctums and cadres. Power is yours. Heh heh. Have you ever thought about becoming a spy? Or is it a snoop...?

Leo (July 24-Aug. 23)

Proud Lions will sizzle in their own juices through the year. You are not only especially sexy and alluring, you are also intense, passionate and acrobatic. Whoo hoo. Get on your trapeze and see how you can trap ’em with ease. Admirers come and beat on your door. The secret to your amorous success is to be choosy, discrete and discerning. Uh oh.

Virgo (Aug. 24-Sept. 23)

Although the temptation is to kanoodle with a bevy of love possibilities, the cosmos suggests that you focus on one in particular. If you are currently ensconced in a relationship, do what you can to make it even better. If you are on the prowl, expand your field and focus your hunt. I hear there are some pretty big guns in town. Let’s see your arsenal

Libra (Sept. 24-Oct. 23)

Resolve to be more productive in the new year. Proud Continued on page 23

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PAGE 12 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

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RESOURCES Resources is provided as a convenient directory for the tri-state area. Information regarding changes, additions or deletions to this guide should be sent in writing to Out, 801 Bingham Street, Suite 100, Pittsburgh PA 15203, or e-mail at out@outonline.com. Area code for all phone numbers is 412 unless noted. Pittsburgh area codes: 412, 724, 878.

Baths ·Club Pittsburgh, 1139 Penn Ave.; 471-6790; www.clubpittsburgh.com. Counseling ·George Dalzell, LCSW, 904-1480. ·James Manzella, LCSW, MA 488-8102. ·Debbie Szajna, LPC, 412-877-3846. ·Persad Center Inc., 5150 Penn Ave., 15224; 4419786. ·Sherri Williams, MSEd, NCC, LPC, CCDP; 5123135; www.thelovingchoice. Health/AIDS ·AIDS Info. Hotline,1-800-662-6080 . ·AIDS Leadership for Prevention and Health Awareness (ALPHA), PO Box 90097, Pgh, PA 15224; alphapittsburgh@gmail.com. ·Allegheny County Health Dept. STD Clinic, 3441 Forbes Ave.; 578-8080. ·Hemlock Society; 341-6459. ·National Org. of Restoring Men Foreskin Support Group, www.NORM.org; NORM.Pittsburgh@verizon.net. ·Pitt Men’s Study, PO Box 7319, Pgh., 15213; 6242008. ·Pitt Treatment & Evaluation Unit, PO Box 7256, Pgh., 15213; 647-8125. ·Pgh. AIDS Task Force,5913 Penn Ave., Pgh.,15206; 345-7456. ·Positive Health Clinic; Allegheny Hospital; 359-3360. ·Shepherd Wellness Community, 4800 Sciota St.,Pgh.,15224;683-4477; www.swconline.org. ·Southwestern Pa. AIDS Planning Coalition, 201 S. Highland Ave., Suite 101, Pgh. 15206; 363-1022 or 877-732-0401. Lodging ·Arbors Bed & Breakfast, (Northside); 231-4643.

Organizations-Political/rights ·American Civil Liberties Union Committee for Lesbian and Gay Equality, 313 Atwood St.; 681-7736. ·Equality Partners of Western Pennsylvania, 429 First Ave., Suite 1, Pgh. 1521;. 206-0874. ·Gertrude Stein Political Club of Greater Pgh., P.O. Box 8108,Pgh., 15217; gertrudesteinclub.org. ·Outright Libertarians of Greater Pgh., Jerry, 6541154. ·Resyst, radical queer project of the Thomas Merton Center; 361-3022. ·Steel-City Stonewall Democrats, www.steelcity.org or president@steel-city.org. ·Western PA Freedom to Marry Coalition, PO Box 81253, Pgh., 15217. Organizations-Religious ·A Common Bond (ex-Jehovah’s Witnesses), 127 Harrison Ave., Pgh., 15202. ·Bet Tikvah (Jewish)., 256-8317. ·Church of the Redeemer - Episcopal, Sundays, 8am and 10:30am. 5700 Forbes Ave.,Pgh.,15217;www.redeemerpittsburgh.org 422-7100. ·Dignity Pittsburgh (Roman Catholic), Box 362, Pgh., 15230; 362-4334. www.dignitypgh.org. ·Gay and Lesbian Alternative Dimensions, 6814222. ·Golden Triangle Church of Religious Science/Center for Positive Living; 362-6149. ·Lutherans Concerned. Info: (724)228-0914. ·Metropolitan Community Church of Pgh., 4836 Ellsworth Ave., Pgh., 15213; www.mccpittsburgh.com; 683-2994. ·More Light Presbyterians, PO Box 9022, Pgh., 15224. ·Open Arms Church, Sundays, 6:30pm. Smithfield United Church, 620 Smithfield St., downtown; 5128913. ·Pgh. Church of Religious Science, 2nd Sundays, Nuin Center, Highland Park. 362-5096. ·Pgh. Friends (Quaker). Silent worship, Sundays, 10:30am. 4836 Ellsworth Ave., Shadyside,15213; 683-2669. ·Rainbow Buddhists of Pgh.,www.zenbowpgh.com ·St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Sundays, 11am. 304 Morewood Ave., Shadyside; 682-3342. ·Three Rivers Interweave, c/o First Unitarian Church, Ellsworth and Morewood Aves.,15213; 343-2523. Organizations-Service ·Anti-Hate Hotline. 24-hour support service for hate activity due to sexual orientation; 820-0111. ·CONTACT Pgh.24-hour crisis/suicide hotline; 820-HELP. ·Gay Alcoholics Anonymous; 422-0114. ·G/L Community Center, 210 Grant St. Pgh PA 15217; 422-0114. Phone staffed Mon.-Fri., 6:309:30pm; Sat., 3-6pm. Send mail to : P O Box 5441, Pgh. 15219. www.glccpgh.org. ·Gay/Lesbian Community Food Bank, sponsored by MCC; 683-2994. ·GLENDA. Community volunteer organization; 422-1303; www.glenda.org. ·GLSEN, 210 Grant St. Pgh PA 15219 361-6996. ·Lambda Foundation, PO Box 5169, Pgh., 15206; 521-5444. ·P-FLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays). PO Box 5406, Pgh., 15206; 833-4556; email:info@pflagpgh.org. Organizations-Social/recreational ·Asians & Friends International of Pgh., PO Box 99191, Pgh., 15233; 521-5451. ·’Burgh Bears, PO Box 6426, Pgh., 15212-0426; www.burghbears.org. ·Delta Foundation/Pittsburgh Pride. PO Box 100057, Pgh., 15233. 246-4451. ·Dreams of Hope Youth Performance Group, 412361-2065; www.dreamsofhope.org or info@dreamsofhope.org. ·Dining Out Pittsburgh, GLBT Supper Club: dinner@diningoutpgh.org or www.diningoutpgh.org ·Dykes on Bikes Pittsburgh Chapter, www.pittsburghdykesonbikes.com. ·Families Like Ours (FLO), support for GLBTQ parents. facebook.com/groups/Families LikeOurs.

PAGE 20 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

·Flying Colors, www.geocities.com/cyclepgh; email: cyclepgh@yahoo.com; 731-8198. ·Friends of All Colors Together; 427-7053. ·Frontrunners, gay, lesbian running group; 2431781;www.pittsburgh-frontrunners.org. ·G2H2 Gay Guys Happy Hours, www.g2h2pittsburgh.com. ·Gay Anglo and Latino Alliance/La Alianza de Latinos y Anglos Gay, 362-5451. ·GLBT Youth Program-Gay & Lesbian Community Center; 422-0114. ·Greater Pgh. Men’s Society; 481-3402. ·Iron City Squares, gay, lesbian square dancing; 724-464-4324. ·ISMIR (International Sexual Minorities Information Resource). PO Box 81869, Pgh., 15217-0869; 422-3060. ·Pittsburgh Gay Book Club. Pgbc Bookclub on facebook. ·Pgh. Gay Motorcyclists; 531-8303, http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/PghGayMotorcyclists. ·Pgh. General Health Professionals Assn.; 3613557. ·Pgh. Lesbian & Gay Film Society, PO Box 81237,Pgh., 15217; 422-6776. www.plgfs.org. ·Pgh. Men’s Collective, 2226 Delaware Ave., 15218; 421-6405. ·Pgh. Transsexual Support Group; 661-7030. ·Pgh. Prime Timers, PO Box 99292, Pgh., 152339200; 519-4320; e-mail: contact@ pittsburghprimetimers.com. www.pittsburgh primetimers.com. ·PONY Gay Rodeo Assn., PO Box 99321, Pgh., 15233; 370-1548. ·Renaissance City Choirs, 116 S. Highland Ave.,Pgh.,15206;362-9484. www.rccpittsburgh.org ·Sex/Love Addicts Anonymous; 441-0956. ·Staying Positive: Pittsburgh. http://stayingpostivepgh@inpgh.org;stayingpositivepgh@gmail.com ·Steel City Bowling League; PO Box 16220, Pgh. 772-8243. ·Steel City Softball League, PO Box 99493. Pgh., 15233, 683-7676. ·Steel City Tennis League; 681-6831. ·Steel City Volleyball League, 506-3187. ·Three Rivers Leather Club, PO Box 5298, Pgh. 15206; www.trlc.net. ·TransFamily Support Group, 962 Rockdale Rd, Butler,16002; (724)758-3578. ·TransPitt, cross dressers, transvestites, transsexuals. PO Box 3214, Pgh., 15230; 454-5557. ·TREAT (Three Rivers Eastern Area Tournament), PO Box 99604, Pgh., 15233; 922-8308. ·Youth Adult Services of PA, PO Box 3539, Pgh., 15230. ·Youth Empowerment Project, PO Box 7319, Pgh., 15213; 624-5508. Organizations-Student/academic ·GLBT Allies at CMU; http://allies.andrew.cmu.edu. 268-9994. ·Gay, Lesbian Law Caucus of the University of Pgh. School of Law. 3900 Forbes Ave., Pgh., 15260; 648-1388. ·Gay-Straight Allaince at Community College of Allegheny County, Office of Student Activities. 808 Ridge Ave., Pgh., 15212; 237-2675. ·GLSEN Pittsburgh, PO Box 110288, Pgh. 15232; 361-6996. ·Pride at Carlow University, (GLBT, Straight Alliance), 3333 Fifth Ave., Pgh., 15213; pride@carlow.edu ·Rainbow Alliance, University of Pittsburgh, 611 William Pitt Union; 412-648-2105. Professional Services ·Lisa Anderson, Northwood Realty. 367-3200, ext. 340. ·Biancheria, Eriksen, Maliver and Angell, P.C. Attorneys-at-Law. 401 Wood Street, Ste, 1600, Pittsburgh PA 15222; 394-1001. ·Evolve Counseling and Coaching, 773-1220 or 818-0312. ·Edward Jasiewicz, Prundential Preferred Reality, 521-5500. ·Leone’s Florist, 5504 Center Ave. Shadyside. 687-1595. ·Lowtide Swimwear and Apparel. 2614 Lincoln Way, White Oak PA 15131. 412-751-4799. ·Weishouse Home Furnishings. 324 S. Highland

Ave., Shadyside. 412-441-8888. Pennsylvania Bars, clubs, restaurants ·Chumley’s, 108 W. College Ave., State College;(814) 238-4446 (mixed). ·Club 231. 231 Pittsburgh St., Uniontown; (724) 430-1477. ·Escapade, 2523 Union Ave., Altoona, 16602; (814) 946-8195. ·Lucille’s, 520 Washington St., Johnstown; (814) 539-4448 ·Michael’s Café, 1413 11th Ave., Altoona, 16601; (814) 941-0803. ·Papermoon, 1325 State St., Erie, 16501; (814) 455-7766. ·Rumors in Town, 1413 11th Ave., rear, Altoona, 16602; (814) 941-0803. ·The Zone, 133 W. 18th St., Erie; (814) 452-0125. Organizations ·AIDS Intervention Project, PO Box 352, Altoona, 16603; 1-800-445-6262. ·Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual Help line of Altoona, (814) 942-8101. ·Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual Task Force, c/o Family & Children’s Service, 2022 Broad Ave., Altoona 16601; (814) 944-3583. ·Gay, Lesbian Switchboard, PO Box 805, State College, 16804; (814) 237-1950, 6-9pm. ·Gay, Lesbian Switchboard of North Central Pa., c/o Susquehanna Lambda, PO Box 2510, Williamsport, 17703; (717) 327-1411. ·IUP Alliance, 724-357-2598. ·Laurel Highlands Gay and Lesbian Alliance, PO Box 145, Somerset, 15501. ·Lawrence County AIDS Network, PO Box 1674, New Castle, 16103; 800-359-AIDS. ·League of G/L Voters, Erie. PO Box 8083, Erie, 16505; (814) 833-3258. ·League of G/L Voters, State College regional chapter. PO Box 10986, State College, 16805; (814) 237-5520. ·LGBTA Resource Center at Bloomsburg University, 266 Students Services Center, 400 East Second St. Bloomsburg PA 17815. ·LGBTA at Penn State, 101 Boucke Bldg. University Park, 16802, 814-863-1248. ·LGBA, PO Box 444, Slippery Rock, 16057; (724) 738-2939. ·Log Cabin Republican Clubs of Pennsylvania, 1903 Walnut St., Suite 175, Phila., 19103; (215) 247-6344. ·Mon Valley AIDS Task Force, Box 416, Monessen,15063;(724)258-1270. ·PA. Council for Sexual Minorities, 238 Main Capital Bldg., Harrisburg, 17120. ·Penn State Sexual Health Awareness Program, Ritenour Health Center, University Park, 16803; (814) 865-TALK. ·P-FLAG (Parents, Families, Friends of Lesbian and Gays) New Castle; (724) 658-3578. ·Project HOPE, 697 State Street, Beaver PA 15009; (724) 581-6825 or (724) 728-8220; projecthope_2009@yahoo.com. ·State College Gay Men’s Alliance, PO Box 545, State College, 16804. ·UPJ Alliance. 814-269-7065. Ext.7180. Ohio Bars, clubs, restaurants ·Adams St., 73-77 N. Adams St., Akron; (330) 4349794. ·Club MAXX, 122 N. Sixth St., Steubenville; (740) 284-1291. ·Crew, 304 Cherry Ave. NE, Canton; (330) 4522739. ·The Grid, 1437 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland; (216) 623-0113. ·Interbelt, 70 N. Howard St., Arkon; (330) 2535700. ·PJ’s at the FED, 169 N 4th St., St., Steubenville; (740) 283-2747. ·Pulse, 169 S. Four Mile Run Rd., Youngstown; (330)318-9830. ·Tear-EZ, 360 S. Main St., Akron; (330) 376-0011. ·Utopia, 876 E. Midlothian Blvd., Youngstown; (330) 781-9000. Lodging ·Circle JJ Ranch, 1104 Amsterdam Rd., Scio; (330) 627-3101.

·Freedom Valley, 1875 US 250 S, New London, OH; (419) 929-8100. Organizations ·Brotherhood Leather United Equal, Steubenville; www.blueohio.net. ·Live and Let Live, gay alcoholics, St. Newman Center, 26 Rayen Ave., Youngstown, 44503. ·Mahoning County Area Task Force on AIDS, PO Box 1143, Youngstown, 44501; (216) 742-8811. ·The Ohio State University Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgendered Alumni Society, PO Box 2012, Columbus, OH 43216; Jim Ryan, (614) 421-9389. ·Washington County AIDS Task Force, Marietta; (614) 374-9119. West Virginia Bars, clubs, restaurants ·Broadway, 210 Broad St., Charleston, 25301; (304) 343-2162. ·Driftwood, 1121 7th Ave., Huntington; (304) 6969858. ·Eagle’s Nest Club, 1500 Brinker Road, Wellsburg WV 26070. ·Lee St. Deli & Bar, 1111 Lee St. East, Charleston, 25301; (304) 343-3354. ·The New Electric Flag, 1044 Market St., Wheeling, 26003; (304) 639-8390. ·O-Zone, 1107 Main St., Wheeling; (304) 2320068. ·Polo Club, 1037 7Th Ave., Huntington, 25705; (304) 522-3146. ·Stonewall Club, 820 7th Ave. (alley entrance), Huntington, 25701; (304) 523-2242 ·Tap Room, 1022 Quarrier St., Charleston, 25301; (304) 342-9563. ·Trax, 504 Washington St., W., Charleston, 25302; (304) 345-8931. ·True Colors, 515 Market St. (rear), Parkersburg, 26101. (304) 428-8783 (TRUE). ·Vice Versa, 335 High St. (rear), Morgantown, 26505; (304) 292-2010. ·Weezies, 3438 University Ave., Morgantown, 26505; (304) 598-0088. ·WoodStarr Nightclub. 322 5th St. Parkersburg; (304) 422-3711. Lodging ·Eagle’s Nest, (412) 417-1099. ·Long Fork Campgrounds, Walton; www.longfork.com; (304) 577-9347. ·Roseland Resort, RD 1, Box 185B, Proctor, 26055; www.roselandWV.com; (304) 455-3838.

CMYK

CMYK

Pittsburgh Area Bars, clubs, restaurants ·941 Saloon. 941 Liberty Ave. (Downtown);2815222. ·1226 on Herron, 1226 Herron Ave. (Polish Hill); 682-6839. ·5801 on Ellsworth, 5801 Ellsworth Ave. (Shadyside); 661-5600. ·Acanthus Fine Dining, 604 W North Ave. (North Side); 231-6544. ·Blue Moon, 5115 Butler St. (Lawrenceville); 7811119. ·Brewer’s Hotel, 3315 Liberty Ave. (Lawrenceville); 681-7991. ·Cattivo, 146 44th St. (Lawrenceville); 687-2157. ·Cruze Bar, 1600 Smallman St. (Strip District); 471-1400. ·Hoi Polloi Vegetarian Café, 1100 Galveston Ave. (North Side); 586-4567. ·Images Pgh., 965 Liberty Ave. (Downtown); 3919990. ·Leather Central, 1226 Herron Ave. (Polish Hill); 682-9869. ·The Link, 91 Wendel Rd., Irwin (Herminie); (724) 446-7717. ·Longbada, 108 W. Pgh. St., Greensburg, 15601; (724) 837-6614. ·M&J’s Lounge, 124 Mercer St., Butler PA ·P-Town, 4740 Baum Blvd. (Oakland); 621-0111, ptownpgh.com. ·Real Luck Cafe, 1519 Penn Ave. (Strip District); 471-7832. ·Remedy, 5121 Butler St. (Lawrenceville); 7816771 ·Spin Bartini/Ultra Lounge, 5744 Ellsworth Ave. (Shadyside); 362-SPIN. ·Square Café, 1137 South Braddock Ave. (Regent Square); 244.8002. ·There Ultra Lounge, 931 Liberty Ave. (Downtown); 642-4435. ·Tilden, 941 Liberty Ave., 2nd floor (Downtown); 391-0804.

·The Inn on the Mexican War Streets (Northside); 231-6544.

Organizations ·AIDS Task Force of the Upper Ohio Valley/Buddy Program, PO Box 6360, Wheeling, 26003; (304) 232-6822. ·BiGLT Mountaineers WVU, Morgantown, 26506;(304) 293-8200; BiGLTM@hotmail.com ·Bisexual, Gay and Lesbian Mountaineers (BiGLM), PO Box 6444, SOW, WVU Morgantown 26506 (304) 293-8200. ·Charleston AIDS Network, PO Box 1024, Charleston, 25324; (304) 345-4673; www.aidsnet.net. ·Friends Who Care, PWHIV support, Joni Constante, (304) 292-8234. ·G/L Alcoholics Anonymous, Wednes-days, 7pm; St. John’s Espiscopal Church, 1105 Quarrier St, Charleston, 25301. ·Huntington AIDS Task Force, PO Box 2981, Huntington, 25728; (304) 522-4357. ·Mid-Ohio Valley AIDS Task Force, PO Box 1184, Parkersburg, 26101; (304) 485-4803. ·Mountain State AIDS Network, 235 High St., #306, Morgantown, 26505; 800-585-4444. ·PFLAG (Parents, Family and Friends of Lesbian and Gays) Parkersburg, PO Box 836, Parkersburg, 26102; (304) 428-8089. ·P-FLAG (Parents, Families, Friends of Lesbian and Gays) Wheeling, 115 18th St., Wheeling, 26003; Liz (304) 232-8743 or (740) 484-4141. ·Together in Pride, PO Box 836, Parkersburg, 26102. ·WV Coalition for Lesbian, Gay Rights, PO Box 11033, Charleston, 25339; (304) 343-7305.

OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 13

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

The 2011 tops in fiction and non

The 2011 tops in fiction and non

by Richard Labonte Bests are subjective, and Top 10s are limiting, but these are the books that stuck with me most in 2011. Some are examples of formal queer fiction or standard homo memoir/autobiography forms, several take a more daring—or daunting—approach to the art of literature, and, auguring well for the future, five of the 10 fiction titles are debuts.

BOOKS

In fact, it was a good year for gay (male) debut fiction: among my other favorites are _Mitko by Garth Greenwell; Dirty One by Michael Graves; We the Animals by Justin Torres; Chulito by Charles Rice-González; Songs for the New Depression by Kergan Edwards-Stout; Quarantine by Rahul Mehta; Moffie by André Carl van Der Merwe and My Brother and His Brother by Hakan

Lindquist—not, technically, a debut, though it’s his first novel in English translation. Kudos, too, to two novels by women: Jodi Picoult’s formulaic but formidable Sing You Home, in which the desire of two middle-aged lesbians to have a child collides head-on with Christian hatred and Rebecca Makkai’s daring and compassionate The Borrower (another debut), in which a young woman librarian befriends (well, kidnaps, in a good way) Ian, a precocious 10-year-old booklover and bound-to-be queer, when his parents try to de-gay him.

My 10 favorite fiction reads of 2011

The Empty Family by Colm Toibin (Scribner)— Master Irish storyteller Toibin queers it up, after last year’s essentially straight novel, Brooklyn, in this collection of nine haunting stories set in different countries and different times, but linked by a pervasive sense of melancholy, longing and loss. There’s not a single clunker in a no-word-wasted collection. The Fog: A Novel of Desire and Reprisal by Jeff Mann (Bear Bones Books)—Sex is violence and passion is pain in Mann’s relentlessly brutal yet irrepressibly romantic short novel. From first page to last, except for a redemptive epilogue, this pitch-perfect erotic novel epitomizes a thriller genre known as torture porn, though the poetry of Mann’s prose imbues even the most intense scenes with tender moments. The Girls Club by Sally Bellerose, (Bywater Books)—Bellerose’s warm debut embraces the concept of sisterhood with propulsive gusto—mostly the real deal of

three very different sisters caring deeply for each other, even as they squabble, but with hints that the sisterhood of nascent feminism has reached the small town where they are realizing their emotional and sexual selves. Love/Imperfect by Christopher T. Leland (Wayne State University Press)—As in real life, gay mingles with straight in Leland’s first collection (after five novels). Seventeen sensual tales, linked by the thematic threads of intimacy, desire and love, depict worried mothers, absent fathers, inter-class sexual affairs and men afraid of their desires. Leland’s supple prose marks him as a short story virtuoso. The Marbled Swarm by Dennis Cooper (Harper Perennial)—A liturgy of salacious acts invested with luscious language and sly wit, this seductive, exhilarating labyrinth of a novel, with its secret passageways, elusive truths and elegant intricacies, is splendidly unlike anything Cooper has previously written, even as it echoes themes of earlier work The Mechanics of Homosexual Intercourse by Lonely Christopher (Little House on the Bowery/Akashic Books)—The nine stories in this exuberantly nontraditional collection will challenge traditionalists who prefer their queer fiction come from formalists such as Ed White or David Leavitt. One hopes those readers will accept that challenge—homo fiction can always use more young writers who are queer in every sense of the word. The Metropolis Case by Matthew Gallaway (Crown Publishers)—First-time novelist Gallaway (who Continued on page 19

Continued from page 14

was interviewed in the April 2011 issue of Pittsburgh’s Out) strikes beguiling chords in this inventive blend of mystery, romance, music and, skillfully, the supernatural. Technically, it’s a 2010 title, released at the end of December, close enough for 2011—a cunning novel embracing the universal themes of searching for love, the meaning of life... and the glorious world of opera. The Two Krishnas by Ghalib Shiraz Dhalla (Magnus Books)—A closeted husband, an unsuspecting wife, an achingly needy younger lover—the three pivotal people in Dhalla’s second novel are stock gay-fiction standards transformed into wrenchingly real characters by the author’s mastery of human emotion; in the story’s nuanced universe, duplicity has consequences and tragedy is inevitable. This is not a happily-ever-after story; its heartbreak is cathartic and inevitable. Wingshooters by Nina Revoyr (Akashic Books)—Xenophobia is rampant in rural Vietnam Warera Wisconsin, where tomboyish 10-year-old Michelle LeBeau, her small town’s only non-white resident, confronts discrimination, bullying and isolation with admirable resilience. Revoyr writes about deep heartache, flawed characters and squandered anger with grace. Zipper Mouth by Laurie Weeks (The Feminist Press at CUNY)—The narrator of this woozy, rapturous short novel, set in Manhattan’s edgy 1980s, engages heroin and cocaine with dedicated delight, maintains a soul-crushing crush on her ambiguously straight drug buddy, Jane, and shares her angst in unrequited letters to the likes of Sylvia Plath and Judy Davis. It’s an ecstatic debut.

Alcohol problem? Drug problem? CMYK

Persad Can Help! Persad Center Substance Abusee Trreatment Programs Call 412-441-9786 ext. 200 for an appointment www.persadcenter.org

Y YOUR OUR W WELL ELL B BEING EING CENTER

PAGE 14 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

Big Sex, Little Death by Susie Bright (Seal Press)—You’d think that a memoir by a founder of the pioneering sex-positive lesbian magazine On Our Backs and author of the “Susie Sexpert” column would be all about sex (and there’s that title). Sex there is, but Bright’s account of a peripatetic childhood, of teenage radicalism, of labor organizing and, latterly, of contented motherhood is much more than a trip down orgasm lane. Halsted Plays Himself by William E. Jones (Semiotext(e) Native Agents)—This slender but authoritative chronicle of legendary erotic performer and filmmaker Fred Halsted—he reigned back in the 1970s, when daily newspapers reviewed porn films—mixes serious research with sexual relish, fleshed out by reprints of reviews, interviews, a smattering of dialogue from Halsted’s classic L.A. Plays Itself and—another side of the man—samplings of his erotic prose. Happy Accidents by Jane Lynch (Hyperion Voice)—Always candid, never coy, Lynch’s account of the happy casting accidents that led her to stardom—and, more recently, to love—is the work of a most talented woman. Odd fact: By age 12, Lynch was mostly mooning about girls, though she confesses in this charismatic memoir to a hormonal crush on 1970s-era Ron Howard. Nina Here Nor There: My Journey Beyond Gender by Nick Krieger (Beacon Press)—Krieger’s journey through and beyond gender, from Nina to Nick, from a large-breasted “her” with shaved legs to an after-top surgery “him” with hairy calves, is chronicled with a dash of wit, with nuanced wisdom, and with candid accounts of confrontations with parents—particularly the father— who are puzzled and pained at seeing their daughter become their son. Nocturnal Omissions: A Tale of Two Poets by Gavin Geoffrey Dillard and Eric Norris (Sibling Rivalry Press)—Gavin lived in Hawaii. Eric lived in New York. Facebook brought them together. Gavin, a former porn star, life-long poet, one-time chef and sometime her-

mit in his 50s, responded to an admiring post from Eric, a poet 15 years his junior. This two-author collection of 111 poems is the result—playful and passionate, lusty and seductive, erotic and philosophical. Persistence: All Ways Butch and Femme, edited by Ivan Coyote and Zena Sharman (Arsenal Pulp Press)— Twenty years after Joan Nestle’s The Persistence Desire: A Butch-Femme Reader, this rambunctious, truth-telling, gender-confronting anthology both honors its antecedent and pulses with contemporary, assured, personal and provocative prose about the personas of femme and butch within the queer community. A Queer History of the United States by Michael Bronski (Beacon Press)—From the Puritan imposition of intolerant sexual mores on the land that was to become America, to angry activism in the face of the nation’s initial neglect of AIDS, Bronski’s cerebral hop, skip and jump assessment of LGBT presence across the centuries is an astute, succinct depiction of the truth that queers have always been everywhere—and everywhen. Richard Labonte has been reading, editing, selling and writing about queer literature since the mid-’70s. He can be reached in care of this publication at out@outonline.com.

No smooth sailing for these Children of God by Steve Warren Children of God (tlareleasing) is about a gay couple coming together and an ostensibly straight couple coming apart in the Bahamas, where preachers and politicians spout anti-gay rhetoric because, as one minister says, “You have to give people something to hate. It brings them together.”

DVDs Jonny (Johnny Ferro), a “skinny white Bahamian boy,” and Romeo (Stephen Tyrone Williams) were in high school in Nassau together but didn’t know each other. Now Jonny’s in art school, where his teacher tells him he needs emotion to match his technique. She sends him to the island of Eleuthera to get away from the crowds and get in touch with his feelings. Used to repressing everything and avoiding being touched, physically or emotionally, Jonny is overwhelmed by the attention of the free-spirited Romeo. Gradually he learns to relax and let go, and apparently they become lovers. I say apparently because writer-producer-director Kareem J. Mortimer errs so much on the side of tastefulness that it’s hard to tell. The film’s potentially most erotic scene has the two men dancing together without music. This would be more effective if strings didn’t start playing on the soundtrack

to break the silence. Meanwhile, Lena Mackey (Margaret Laurena Kemp) has learned that she has gonorrhea. She has to tell her minister husband, Ralph, who of course doesn’t take it well. The more he accuses her the more obvious it is that he brought the disease home, so it’s not surprising to learn he’s on the DL. Lena goes to Eleuthera to work on Ralph’s “Save the Bahamas” campaign that opposes gay rights and gay tourism. There she stays with another minister, Clyde Ritchie, whose wife recently left him. They get very close, but again Mortimer’s timidity keeps us from knowing how close. Does Lena forget that she’s contagious as well as married? Ralph deserves that, but Clyde doesn’t. The budding love between Romeo and Jonny is interrupted when Romeo’s mother arrives to stage an intervention, even though she doesn’t know exactly what’s wrong with her son. She brings along Romeo’s girlfriend. As the young lovers help each other get past their fears, it’s not all smooth sailing. There’s a lovely, tearjerking ending that was nicely set up earlier but might have been better filmed. A strong storyline and good performances help us over the rough spots in Mortimer’s direction, leaving Children of God well on the side of the angels.

OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 19

CMYK

NOT SURE?

And my favorite nonfiction reads of 2011

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Women on the road: the mostly live edition by Chris Azzopardi Adele, Adele Live at the Royal Albert Hall (CD/DVD/Blu-ray)—Adele sings sad love songs, but when she speaks? The British belter is a cursing firecracker (so much so that there’s an “edited� version of this package; don’t get it) with a biting sense of humor and a boisterous cackle that doesn’t seem very sad at all.

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$99.00 Customer Installation Charge. 36-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $35.99 per month ($1,295.64). Form of payment must be by credit card or electronic charge to your checking or savings account. Offer applies to homeowners only. Local permit fees may be required. Satisfactory credit history required. Certain restrictions may apply. Offer valid for new ADT Authorized Dealer customers only and not on purchases from ADT Security Services, Inc. Other rate plans available. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Licenses: AL-10-1104, AZ-ROC217517, CA-ACO6320, CT-ELC.0193944-L5, DE-07-212, FL-EC13003427, EC13003401, GA-LVA205395, IA-AC-0036, ID-39131, IL-127.001042, IN-City of Indianapolis: 93294, KY-City of Louisville: 483, LA-F1082, MA-1355C, MD-107-1375, Baltimore County: 1375, Calvert County: ABL00625, Caroline County: 1157, Cecil County: 541-L, Charles County: 804, Dorchester County: 764, Frederick County: F0424, Harford County: 3541, Montgomery County: 1276, Prince George’s County: 685, Queen Anne’s County: L156, St. Mary’s County: LV2039R, Talbot County: L674, Wicomico County: 2017, Worcester County: L1013, MI-3601205773, MN-TS01807, MO-City of St. Louis: CC354, St. Louis County: 47738, MS-15007958, MT-247, NC-25310-SP-LV, 1622-CSA, NE-14451, NJ-34BF00021800, NM-353366, NV-68518, City of Las Vegas: B14-00075-6-121756, C11-11262-L-121756, NY-Licensed by the N.Y.S. Department of State UID#12000286451, OH-53891446, City of Cincinnati: AC86, OK-1048, OR-170997, Pennsylvania Home Improvement Contractor Registration Number: PA22999, RI-3428, SC-BAC5630, TN-C1164, C1520, TX-B13734, UT-6422596-6501, VA-115120, VT-EaS-2382, WA-602588694/PROTEYH934RS, WI-City of Milwaukee: 0001697, WV-042433, WY-LV-G-21499. For full list of licenses visit our website www.protectyourhome.com. Protect Your Home – 3750 Priority Way South Dr., Ste 200, Indianapolis, IN 46240. **Crime data taken from http://ovc.ncjrs.gov/gallery/posters/pdfs/Crime_Clock.pdf

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anecdotal, life-on-the-road “Statesâ€?—and “India,â€? a 24minute video diary of their first-ever tour of the country (an acoustic “Walking with a Ghostâ€? is performed beachside). The real treat, though, is the hour-plus of live acoustic performances in a chill Vancouver venue, where the Quin sisters play their most-adored ditties from five albums— including “I Know I Know I Know,â€? “I Won’t be Leftâ€? and “Nineteenâ€?—and go mostly guitar-only with them. Highlights: “Not With Youâ€? from their 2000 debut and the harmonic heartbreak of “Call It Off.â€? Double trouble? Nah. Double talent? Definitely. B+ Rihanna, Talk That Talk—Rihanna doesn’t beat around the bush—and that’s not meant to be a dirtyminded pun, though her sixth, and worst, studio album is full of them. She’s sex on CD, recording some of her raunchiest come-ons since‌ well, her last album’s “S&M.â€? In quickie cut “Birthday Cake,â€? she invites a boy to “put his name on itâ€? before spelling out what she really wants: to screw. On “Watch n’ Learnâ€? she’s smearing her makeup all over his thing during Sex 101; she gets more basic with “Roc Me Out,â€? which has her doing seesaw motions with “daddy.â€? Split between sonic porn and sweet songs about love, Talk That Talk walks that walk when RiRi isn’t vapidly filling space with her bedroom fantasies; the barely masked naughtiness of “Cockiness (Love It),â€? where she “wants you to eat it,â€? is just the kind of cheeky sex song that would fare better if you were actually doing half of what she’s asking you to. Otherwise, it’s filthy fill to round out an album that feels awfully anorexic and absurdly desperate, and not just because of its 37-minute run time or rampant superficiality. There’s an empty, rushed-to-release sense—especially on the Dr. Luke-produced “You Da One,â€? an obligatory nod to her Barbados roots—that deems it lesser than her last album, released almost a year earlier, and what still remains her best work, 2009’s dark detour Rated R. “We Found Love,â€? though, is electro-house done right, featuring Calvin Harris’ stutter-crazy, hyper-dance style and RiRi’s most euphoric singing. The album’s last song, “Farewell,â€? is a thoughtful if forgettable monster ballad—a moment of reflection that might follow a night of eating, uhh, birthday cake. C

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OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 15

CMYK

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Protect Your Home

Her live album, recorded in London, is a candid extension of the super-powered singer we’ve come to know from her many hits this past year with the release of her monster disc 21, all of which are performed here: “Rolling in the Deep,� “Set Fire to the Rain� and “Someone Like You.� Previous gems from her debut, opener “Hometown Glory� and “Chasing Pavements,� and covers of Bon-

nie Raitt’s “I Can’t Make You Love Me� and “Lovesong� are also performed with one-of-a-kind greatness from those bulldozer-built lungs of hers. Particularly special: her version of “If It Hadn’t Been for Love,� a bit of bluegrass that really just proves that, with her voice alone, Adele can set fire to anything. AKylie Minogue, Aphrodite Les Folies: Live in London (CD/DVD/Blu-ray)—She doesn’t tour often, but when the Aussie princess does, she goes all out. Kylie’s immaculate and majorly homoerotic show, her biggest yet, of impressive aerialists, a breathtaking ancient-palace set and half-naked men (and their glistening abs) as Greek gods—Minogue obviously knows her audience—is, alone, an eye orgasm. And how about that water? Gallons of it are used as stage geysers at the end like a delayed climax. The music, then, is just a footnote in this spellbinding, bar-setting stage show (see all that went into the spectacle with behind-the-scenes access), but most of the faves are there: “I Believe in You,� a herd of hot men pulling her chariot; “Can’t Get You Out of My Head,� set to a gothic ballroom dance scene; and one of the most beautiful concert moments ever, “All the Lovers,� with its soup of sexy bodies surrounding the goddess herself. Gay heaven welcomes you. A Tegan & Sara, Get Along (CD/DVD)—Sometimes it’s OK to let the songs speak for themselves. Lesbian supertwins Tegan & Sara go that route in this laid-back performance of their indie-pop with an intimate living-room feel that’s more a documentary than a straight-up concert. Three films by just as many filmmakers are featured: the

CMYK

CMYK

PAGE 16 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 17

CMYK

CMYK

PAGE 16 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 17

A Home Is Burglarized Every 18 Seconds, Don’t let yours be the next! **

Help Protect Your Home and Family.

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

Women on the road: the mostly live edition by Chris Azzopardi Adele, Adele Live at the Royal Albert Hall (CD/DVD/Blu-ray)—Adele sings sad love songs, but when she speaks? The British belter is a cursing firecracker (so much so that there’s an “edited� version of this package; don’t get it) with a biting sense of humor and a boisterous cackle that doesn’t seem very sad at all.

MUSIC

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$99.00 Customer Installation Charge. 36-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $35.99 per month ($1,295.64). Form of payment must be by credit card or electronic charge to your checking or savings account. Offer applies to homeowners only. Local permit fees may be required. Satisfactory credit history required. Certain restrictions may apply. Offer valid for new ADT Authorized Dealer customers only and not on purchases from ADT Security Services, Inc. Other rate plans available. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Licenses: AL-10-1104, AZ-ROC217517, CA-ACO6320, CT-ELC.0193944-L5, DE-07-212, FL-EC13003427, EC13003401, GA-LVA205395, IA-AC-0036, ID-39131, IL-127.001042, IN-City of Indianapolis: 93294, KY-City of Louisville: 483, LA-F1082, MA-1355C, MD-107-1375, Baltimore County: 1375, Calvert County: ABL00625, Caroline County: 1157, Cecil County: 541-L, Charles County: 804, Dorchester County: 764, Frederick County: F0424, Harford County: 3541, Montgomery County: 1276, Prince George’s County: 685, Queen Anne’s County: L156, St. Mary’s County: LV2039R, Talbot County: L674, Wicomico County: 2017, Worcester County: L1013, MI-3601205773, MN-TS01807, MO-City of St. Louis: CC354, St. Louis County: 47738, MS-15007958, MT-247, NC-25310-SP-LV, 1622-CSA, NE-14451, NJ-34BF00021800, NM-353366, NV-68518, City of Las Vegas: B14-00075-6-121756, C11-11262-L-121756, NY-Licensed by the N.Y.S. Department of State UID#12000286451, OH-53891446, City of Cincinnati: AC86, OK-1048, OR-170997, Pennsylvania Home Improvement Contractor Registration Number: PA22999, RI-3428, SC-BAC5630, TN-C1164, C1520, TX-B13734, UT-6422596-6501, VA-115120, VT-EaS-2382, WA-602588694/PROTEYH934RS, WI-City of Milwaukee: 0001697, WV-042433, WY-LV-G-21499. For full list of licenses visit our website www.protectyourhome.com. Protect Your Home – 3750 Priority Way South Dr., Ste 200, Indianapolis, IN 46240. **Crime data taken from http://ovc.ncjrs.gov/gallery/posters/pdfs/Crime_Clock.pdf

PAGE 18 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

anecdotal, life-on-the-road “Statesâ€?—and “India,â€? a 24minute video diary of their first-ever tour of the country (an acoustic “Walking with a Ghostâ€? is performed beachside). The real treat, though, is the hour-plus of live acoustic performances in a chill Vancouver venue, where the Quin sisters play their most-adored ditties from five albums— including “I Know I Know I Know,â€? “I Won’t be Leftâ€? and “Nineteenâ€?—and go mostly guitar-only with them. Highlights: “Not With Youâ€? from their 2000 debut and the harmonic heartbreak of “Call It Off.â€? Double trouble? Nah. Double talent? Definitely. B+ Rihanna, Talk That Talk—Rihanna doesn’t beat around the bush—and that’s not meant to be a dirtyminded pun, though her sixth, and worst, studio album is full of them. She’s sex on CD, recording some of her raunchiest come-ons since‌ well, her last album’s “S&M.â€? In quickie cut “Birthday Cake,â€? she invites a boy to “put his name on itâ€? before spelling out what she really wants: to screw. On “Watch n’ Learnâ€? she’s smearing her makeup all over his thing during Sex 101; she gets more basic with “Roc Me Out,â€? which has her doing seesaw motions with “daddy.â€? Split between sonic porn and sweet songs about love, Talk That Talk walks that walk when RiRi isn’t vapidly filling space with her bedroom fantasies; the barely masked naughtiness of “Cockiness (Love It),â€? where she “wants you to eat it,â€? is just the kind of cheeky sex song that would fare better if you were actually doing half of what she’s asking you to. Otherwise, it’s filthy fill to round out an album that feels awfully anorexic and absurdly desperate, and not just because of its 37-minute run time or rampant superficiality. There’s an empty, rushed-to-release sense—especially on the Dr. Luke-produced “You Da One,â€? an obligatory nod to her Barbados roots—that deems it lesser than her last album, released almost a year earlier, and what still remains her best work, 2009’s dark detour Rated R. “We Found Love,â€? though, is electro-house done right, featuring Calvin Harris’ stutter-crazy, hyper-dance style and RiRi’s most euphoric singing. The album’s last song, “Farewell,â€? is a thoughtful if forgettable monster ballad—a moment of reflection that might follow a night of eating, uhh, birthday cake. C

MENTION THIS AD TO OUR SCHEDULER TO INSURE YOUR “FAMILY DISCOUNT�

OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 15

CMYK

CMYK

Protect Your Home

Her live album, recorded in London, is a candid extension of the super-powered singer we’ve come to know from her many hits this past year with the release of her monster disc 21, all of which are performed here: “Rolling in the Deep,� “Set Fire to the Rain� and “Someone Like You.� Previous gems from her debut, opener “Hometown Glory� and “Chasing Pavements,� and covers of Bon-

nie Raitt’s “I Can’t Make You Love Me� and “Lovesong� are also performed with one-of-a-kind greatness from those bulldozer-built lungs of hers. Particularly special: her version of “If It Hadn’t Been for Love,� a bit of bluegrass that really just proves that, with her voice alone, Adele can set fire to anything. AKylie Minogue, Aphrodite Les Folies: Live in London (CD/DVD/Blu-ray)—She doesn’t tour often, but when the Aussie princess does, she goes all out. Kylie’s immaculate and majorly homoerotic show, her biggest yet, of impressive aerialists, a breathtaking ancient-palace set and half-naked men (and their glistening abs) as Greek gods—Minogue obviously knows her audience—is, alone, an eye orgasm. And how about that water? Gallons of it are used as stage geysers at the end like a delayed climax. The music, then, is just a footnote in this spellbinding, bar-setting stage show (see all that went into the spectacle with behind-the-scenes access), but most of the faves are there: “I Believe in You,� a herd of hot men pulling her chariot; “Can’t Get You Out of My Head,� set to a gothic ballroom dance scene; and one of the most beautiful concert moments ever, “All the Lovers,� with its soup of sexy bodies surrounding the goddess herself. Gay heaven welcomes you. A Tegan & Sara, Get Along (CD/DVD)—Sometimes it’s OK to let the songs speak for themselves. Lesbian supertwins Tegan & Sara go that route in this laid-back performance of their indie-pop with an intimate living-room feel that’s more a documentary than a straight-up concert. Three films by just as many filmmakers are featured: the

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

The 2011 tops in fiction and non

The 2011 tops in fiction and non

by Richard Labonte Bests are subjective, and Top 10s are limiting, but these are the books that stuck with me most in 2011. Some are examples of formal queer fiction or standard homo memoir/autobiography forms, several take a more daring—or daunting—approach to the art of literature, and, auguring well for the future, five of the 10 fiction titles are debuts.

BOOKS

In fact, it was a good year for gay (male) debut fiction: among my other favorites are _Mitko by Garth Greenwell; Dirty One by Michael Graves; We the Animals by Justin Torres; Chulito by Charles Rice-González; Songs for the New Depression by Kergan Edwards-Stout; Quarantine by Rahul Mehta; Moffie by André Carl van Der Merwe and My Brother and His Brother by Hakan

Lindquist—not, technically, a debut, though it’s his first novel in English translation. Kudos, too, to two novels by women: Jodi Picoult’s formulaic but formidable Sing You Home, in which the desire of two middle-aged lesbians to have a child collides head-on with Christian hatred and Rebecca Makkai’s daring and compassionate The Borrower (another debut), in which a young woman librarian befriends (well, kidnaps, in a good way) Ian, a precocious 10-year-old booklover and bound-to-be queer, when his parents try to de-gay him.

My 10 favorite fiction reads of 2011

The Empty Family by Colm Toibin (Scribner)— Master Irish storyteller Toibin queers it up, after last year’s essentially straight novel, Brooklyn, in this collection of nine haunting stories set in different countries and different times, but linked by a pervasive sense of melancholy, longing and loss. There’s not a single clunker in a no-word-wasted collection. The Fog: A Novel of Desire and Reprisal by Jeff Mann (Bear Bones Books)—Sex is violence and passion is pain in Mann’s relentlessly brutal yet irrepressibly romantic short novel. From first page to last, except for a redemptive epilogue, this pitch-perfect erotic novel epitomizes a thriller genre known as torture porn, though the poetry of Mann’s prose imbues even the most intense scenes with tender moments. The Girls Club by Sally Bellerose, (Bywater Books)—Bellerose’s warm debut embraces the concept of sisterhood with propulsive gusto—mostly the real deal of

three very different sisters caring deeply for each other, even as they squabble, but with hints that the sisterhood of nascent feminism has reached the small town where they are realizing their emotional and sexual selves. Love/Imperfect by Christopher T. Leland (Wayne State University Press)—As in real life, gay mingles with straight in Leland’s first collection (after five novels). Seventeen sensual tales, linked by the thematic threads of intimacy, desire and love, depict worried mothers, absent fathers, inter-class sexual affairs and men afraid of their desires. Leland’s supple prose marks him as a short story virtuoso. The Marbled Swarm by Dennis Cooper (Harper Perennial)—A liturgy of salacious acts invested with luscious language and sly wit, this seductive, exhilarating labyrinth of a novel, with its secret passageways, elusive truths and elegant intricacies, is splendidly unlike anything Cooper has previously written, even as it echoes themes of earlier work The Mechanics of Homosexual Intercourse by Lonely Christopher (Little House on the Bowery/Akashic Books)—The nine stories in this exuberantly nontraditional collection will challenge traditionalists who prefer their queer fiction come from formalists such as Ed White or David Leavitt. One hopes those readers will accept that challenge—homo fiction can always use more young writers who are queer in every sense of the word. The Metropolis Case by Matthew Gallaway (Crown Publishers)—First-time novelist Gallaway (who Continued on page 19

Continued from page 14

was interviewed in the April 2011 issue of Pittsburgh’s Out) strikes beguiling chords in this inventive blend of mystery, romance, music and, skillfully, the supernatural. Technically, it’s a 2010 title, released at the end of December, close enough for 2011—a cunning novel embracing the universal themes of searching for love, the meaning of life... and the glorious world of opera. The Two Krishnas by Ghalib Shiraz Dhalla (Magnus Books)—A closeted husband, an unsuspecting wife, an achingly needy younger lover—the three pivotal people in Dhalla’s second novel are stock gay-fiction standards transformed into wrenchingly real characters by the author’s mastery of human emotion; in the story’s nuanced universe, duplicity has consequences and tragedy is inevitable. This is not a happily-ever-after story; its heartbreak is cathartic and inevitable. Wingshooters by Nina Revoyr (Akashic Books)—Xenophobia is rampant in rural Vietnam Warera Wisconsin, where tomboyish 10-year-old Michelle LeBeau, her small town’s only non-white resident, confronts discrimination, bullying and isolation with admirable resilience. Revoyr writes about deep heartache, flawed characters and squandered anger with grace. Zipper Mouth by Laurie Weeks (The Feminist Press at CUNY)—The narrator of this woozy, rapturous short novel, set in Manhattan’s edgy 1980s, engages heroin and cocaine with dedicated delight, maintains a soul-crushing crush on her ambiguously straight drug buddy, Jane, and shares her angst in unrequited letters to the likes of Sylvia Plath and Judy Davis. It’s an ecstatic debut.

Alcohol problem? Drug problem? CMYK

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PAGE 14 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

Big Sex, Little Death by Susie Bright (Seal Press)—You’d think that a memoir by a founder of the pioneering sex-positive lesbian magazine On Our Backs and author of the “Susie Sexpert” column would be all about sex (and there’s that title). Sex there is, but Bright’s account of a peripatetic childhood, of teenage radicalism, of labor organizing and, latterly, of contented motherhood is much more than a trip down orgasm lane. Halsted Plays Himself by William E. Jones (Semiotext(e) Native Agents)—This slender but authoritative chronicle of legendary erotic performer and filmmaker Fred Halsted—he reigned back in the 1970s, when daily newspapers reviewed porn films—mixes serious research with sexual relish, fleshed out by reprints of reviews, interviews, a smattering of dialogue from Halsted’s classic L.A. Plays Itself and—another side of the man—samplings of his erotic prose. Happy Accidents by Jane Lynch (Hyperion Voice)—Always candid, never coy, Lynch’s account of the happy casting accidents that led her to stardom—and, more recently, to love—is the work of a most talented woman. Odd fact: By age 12, Lynch was mostly mooning about girls, though she confesses in this charismatic memoir to a hormonal crush on 1970s-era Ron Howard. Nina Here Nor There: My Journey Beyond Gender by Nick Krieger (Beacon Press)—Krieger’s journey through and beyond gender, from Nina to Nick, from a large-breasted “her” with shaved legs to an after-top surgery “him” with hairy calves, is chronicled with a dash of wit, with nuanced wisdom, and with candid accounts of confrontations with parents—particularly the father— who are puzzled and pained at seeing their daughter become their son. Nocturnal Omissions: A Tale of Two Poets by Gavin Geoffrey Dillard and Eric Norris (Sibling Rivalry Press)—Gavin lived in Hawaii. Eric lived in New York. Facebook brought them together. Gavin, a former porn star, life-long poet, one-time chef and sometime her-

mit in his 50s, responded to an admiring post from Eric, a poet 15 years his junior. This two-author collection of 111 poems is the result—playful and passionate, lusty and seductive, erotic and philosophical. Persistence: All Ways Butch and Femme, edited by Ivan Coyote and Zena Sharman (Arsenal Pulp Press)— Twenty years after Joan Nestle’s The Persistence Desire: A Butch-Femme Reader, this rambunctious, truth-telling, gender-confronting anthology both honors its antecedent and pulses with contemporary, assured, personal and provocative prose about the personas of femme and butch within the queer community. A Queer History of the United States by Michael Bronski (Beacon Press)—From the Puritan imposition of intolerant sexual mores on the land that was to become America, to angry activism in the face of the nation’s initial neglect of AIDS, Bronski’s cerebral hop, skip and jump assessment of LGBT presence across the centuries is an astute, succinct depiction of the truth that queers have always been everywhere—and everywhen. Richard Labonte has been reading, editing, selling and writing about queer literature since the mid-’70s. He can be reached in care of this publication at out@outonline.com.

No smooth sailing for these Children of God by Steve Warren Children of God (tlareleasing) is about a gay couple coming together and an ostensibly straight couple coming apart in the Bahamas, where preachers and politicians spout anti-gay rhetoric because, as one minister says, “You have to give people something to hate. It brings them together.”

DVDs Jonny (Johnny Ferro), a “skinny white Bahamian boy,” and Romeo (Stephen Tyrone Williams) were in high school in Nassau together but didn’t know each other. Now Jonny’s in art school, where his teacher tells him he needs emotion to match his technique. She sends him to the island of Eleuthera to get away from the crowds and get in touch with his feelings. Used to repressing everything and avoiding being touched, physically or emotionally, Jonny is overwhelmed by the attention of the free-spirited Romeo. Gradually he learns to relax and let go, and apparently they become lovers. I say apparently because writer-producer-director Kareem J. Mortimer errs so much on the side of tastefulness that it’s hard to tell. The film’s potentially most erotic scene has the two men dancing together without music. This would be more effective if strings didn’t start playing on the soundtrack

to break the silence. Meanwhile, Lena Mackey (Margaret Laurena Kemp) has learned that she has gonorrhea. She has to tell her minister husband, Ralph, who of course doesn’t take it well. The more he accuses her the more obvious it is that he brought the disease home, so it’s not surprising to learn he’s on the DL. Lena goes to Eleuthera to work on Ralph’s “Save the Bahamas” campaign that opposes gay rights and gay tourism. There she stays with another minister, Clyde Ritchie, whose wife recently left him. They get very close, but again Mortimer’s timidity keeps us from knowing how close. Does Lena forget that she’s contagious as well as married? Ralph deserves that, but Clyde doesn’t. The budding love between Romeo and Jonny is interrupted when Romeo’s mother arrives to stage an intervention, even though she doesn’t know exactly what’s wrong with her son. She brings along Romeo’s girlfriend. As the young lovers help each other get past their fears, it’s not all smooth sailing. There’s a lovely, tearjerking ending that was nicely set up earlier but might have been better filmed. A strong storyline and good performances help us over the rough spots in Mortimer’s direction, leaving Children of God well on the side of the angels.

OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 19

CMYK

NOT SURE?

And my favorite nonfiction reads of 2011

RESOURCES Resources is provided as a convenient directory for the tri-state area. Information regarding changes, additions or deletions to this guide should be sent in writing to Out, 801 Bingham Street, Suite 100, Pittsburgh PA 15203, or e-mail at out@outonline.com. Area code for all phone numbers is 412 unless noted. Pittsburgh area codes: 412, 724, 878.

Baths ·Club Pittsburgh, 1139 Penn Ave.; 471-6790; www.clubpittsburgh.com. Counseling ·George Dalzell, LCSW, 904-1480. ·James Manzella, LCSW, MA 488-8102. ·Debbie Szajna, LPC, 412-877-3846. ·Persad Center Inc., 5150 Penn Ave., 15224; 4419786. ·Sherri Williams, MSEd, NCC, LPC, CCDP; 5123135; www.thelovingchoice. Health/AIDS ·AIDS Info. Hotline,1-800-662-6080 . ·AIDS Leadership for Prevention and Health Awareness (ALPHA), PO Box 90097, Pgh, PA 15224; alphapittsburgh@gmail.com. ·Allegheny County Health Dept. STD Clinic, 3441 Forbes Ave.; 578-8080. ·Hemlock Society; 341-6459. ·National Org. of Restoring Men Foreskin Support Group, www.NORM.org; NORM.Pittsburgh@verizon.net. ·Pitt Men’s Study, PO Box 7319, Pgh., 15213; 6242008. ·Pitt Treatment & Evaluation Unit, PO Box 7256, Pgh., 15213; 647-8125. ·Pgh. AIDS Task Force,5913 Penn Ave., Pgh.,15206; 345-7456. ·Positive Health Clinic; Allegheny Hospital; 359-3360. ·Shepherd Wellness Community, 4800 Sciota St.,Pgh.,15224;683-4477; www.swconline.org. ·Southwestern Pa. AIDS Planning Coalition, 201 S. Highland Ave., Suite 101, Pgh. 15206; 363-1022 or 877-732-0401. Lodging ·Arbors Bed & Breakfast, (Northside); 231-4643.

Organizations-Political/rights ·American Civil Liberties Union Committee for Lesbian and Gay Equality, 313 Atwood St.; 681-7736. ·Equality Partners of Western Pennsylvania, 429 First Ave., Suite 1, Pgh. 1521;. 206-0874. ·Gertrude Stein Political Club of Greater Pgh., P.O. Box 8108,Pgh., 15217; gertrudesteinclub.org. ·Outright Libertarians of Greater Pgh., Jerry, 6541154. ·Resyst, radical queer project of the Thomas Merton Center; 361-3022. ·Steel-City Stonewall Democrats, www.steelcity.org or president@steel-city.org. ·Western PA Freedom to Marry Coalition, PO Box 81253, Pgh., 15217. Organizations-Religious ·A Common Bond (ex-Jehovah’s Witnesses), 127 Harrison Ave., Pgh., 15202. ·Bet Tikvah (Jewish)., 256-8317. ·Church of the Redeemer - Episcopal, Sundays, 8am and 10:30am. 5700 Forbes Ave.,Pgh.,15217;www.redeemerpittsburgh.org 422-7100. ·Dignity Pittsburgh (Roman Catholic), Box 362, Pgh., 15230; 362-4334. www.dignitypgh.org. ·Gay and Lesbian Alternative Dimensions, 6814222. ·Golden Triangle Church of Religious Science/Center for Positive Living; 362-6149. ·Lutherans Concerned. Info: (724)228-0914. ·Metropolitan Community Church of Pgh., 4836 Ellsworth Ave., Pgh., 15213; www.mccpittsburgh.com; 683-2994. ·More Light Presbyterians, PO Box 9022, Pgh., 15224. ·Open Arms Church, Sundays, 6:30pm. Smithfield United Church, 620 Smithfield St., downtown; 5128913. ·Pgh. Church of Religious Science, 2nd Sundays, Nuin Center, Highland Park. 362-5096. ·Pgh. Friends (Quaker). Silent worship, Sundays, 10:30am. 4836 Ellsworth Ave., Shadyside,15213; 683-2669. ·Rainbow Buddhists of Pgh.,www.zenbowpgh.com ·St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Sundays, 11am. 304 Morewood Ave., Shadyside; 682-3342. ·Three Rivers Interweave, c/o First Unitarian Church, Ellsworth and Morewood Aves.,15213; 343-2523. Organizations-Service ·Anti-Hate Hotline. 24-hour support service for hate activity due to sexual orientation; 820-0111. ·CONTACT Pgh.24-hour crisis/suicide hotline; 820-HELP. ·Gay Alcoholics Anonymous; 422-0114. ·G/L Community Center, 210 Grant St. Pgh PA 15217; 422-0114. Phone staffed Mon.-Fri., 6:309:30pm; Sat., 3-6pm. Send mail to : P O Box 5441, Pgh. 15219. www.glccpgh.org. ·Gay/Lesbian Community Food Bank, sponsored by MCC; 683-2994. ·GLENDA. Community volunteer organization; 422-1303; www.glenda.org. ·GLSEN, 210 Grant St. Pgh PA 15219 361-6996. ·Lambda Foundation, PO Box 5169, Pgh., 15206; 521-5444. ·P-FLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays). PO Box 5406, Pgh., 15206; 833-4556; email:info@pflagpgh.org. Organizations-Social/recreational ·Asians & Friends International of Pgh., PO Box 99191, Pgh., 15233; 521-5451. ·’Burgh Bears, PO Box 6426, Pgh., 15212-0426; www.burghbears.org. ·Delta Foundation/Pittsburgh Pride. PO Box 100057, Pgh., 15233. 246-4451. ·Dreams of Hope Youth Performance Group, 412361-2065; www.dreamsofhope.org or info@dreamsofhope.org. ·Dining Out Pittsburgh, GLBT Supper Club: dinner@diningoutpgh.org or www.diningoutpgh.org ·Dykes on Bikes Pittsburgh Chapter, www.pittsburghdykesonbikes.com. ·Families Like Ours (FLO), support for GLBTQ parents. facebook.com/groups/Families LikeOurs.

PAGE 20 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

·Flying Colors, www.geocities.com/cyclepgh; email: cyclepgh@yahoo.com; 731-8198. ·Friends of All Colors Together; 427-7053. ·Frontrunners, gay, lesbian running group; 2431781;www.pittsburgh-frontrunners.org. ·G2H2 Gay Guys Happy Hours, www.g2h2pittsburgh.com. ·Gay Anglo and Latino Alliance/La Alianza de Latinos y Anglos Gay, 362-5451. ·GLBT Youth Program-Gay & Lesbian Community Center; 422-0114. ·Greater Pgh. Men’s Society; 481-3402. ·Iron City Squares, gay, lesbian square dancing; 724-464-4324. ·ISMIR (International Sexual Minorities Information Resource). PO Box 81869, Pgh., 15217-0869; 422-3060. ·Pittsburgh Gay Book Club. Pgbc Bookclub on facebook. ·Pgh. Gay Motorcyclists; 531-8303, http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/PghGayMotorcyclists. ·Pgh. General Health Professionals Assn.; 3613557. ·Pgh. Lesbian & Gay Film Society, PO Box 81237,Pgh., 15217; 422-6776. www.plgfs.org. ·Pgh. Men’s Collective, 2226 Delaware Ave., 15218; 421-6405. ·Pgh. Transsexual Support Group; 661-7030. ·Pgh. Prime Timers, PO Box 99292, Pgh., 152339200; 519-4320; e-mail: contact@ pittsburghprimetimers.com. www.pittsburgh primetimers.com. ·PONY Gay Rodeo Assn., PO Box 99321, Pgh., 15233; 370-1548. ·Renaissance City Choirs, 116 S. Highland Ave.,Pgh.,15206;362-9484. www.rccpittsburgh.org ·Sex/Love Addicts Anonymous; 441-0956. ·Staying Positive: Pittsburgh. http://stayingpostivepgh@inpgh.org;stayingpositivepgh@gmail.com ·Steel City Bowling League; PO Box 16220, Pgh. 772-8243. ·Steel City Softball League, PO Box 99493. Pgh., 15233, 683-7676. ·Steel City Tennis League; 681-6831. ·Steel City Volleyball League, 506-3187. ·Three Rivers Leather Club, PO Box 5298, Pgh. 15206; www.trlc.net. ·TransFamily Support Group, 962 Rockdale Rd, Butler,16002; (724)758-3578. ·TransPitt, cross dressers, transvestites, transsexuals. PO Box 3214, Pgh., 15230; 454-5557. ·TREAT (Three Rivers Eastern Area Tournament), PO Box 99604, Pgh., 15233; 922-8308. ·Youth Adult Services of PA, PO Box 3539, Pgh., 15230. ·Youth Empowerment Project, PO Box 7319, Pgh., 15213; 624-5508. Organizations-Student/academic ·GLBT Allies at CMU; http://allies.andrew.cmu.edu. 268-9994. ·Gay, Lesbian Law Caucus of the University of Pgh. School of Law. 3900 Forbes Ave., Pgh., 15260; 648-1388. ·Gay-Straight Allaince at Community College of Allegheny County, Office of Student Activities. 808 Ridge Ave., Pgh., 15212; 237-2675. ·GLSEN Pittsburgh, PO Box 110288, Pgh. 15232; 361-6996. ·Pride at Carlow University, (GLBT, Straight Alliance), 3333 Fifth Ave., Pgh., 15213; pride@carlow.edu ·Rainbow Alliance, University of Pittsburgh, 611 William Pitt Union; 412-648-2105. Professional Services ·Lisa Anderson, Northwood Realty. 367-3200, ext. 340. ·Biancheria, Eriksen, Maliver and Angell, P.C. Attorneys-at-Law. 401 Wood Street, Ste, 1600, Pittsburgh PA 15222; 394-1001. ·Evolve Counseling and Coaching, 773-1220 or 818-0312. ·Edward Jasiewicz, Prundential Preferred Reality, 521-5500. ·Leone’s Florist, 5504 Center Ave. Shadyside. 687-1595. ·Lowtide Swimwear and Apparel. 2614 Lincoln Way, White Oak PA 15131. 412-751-4799. ·Weishouse Home Furnishings. 324 S. Highland

Ave., Shadyside. 412-441-8888. Pennsylvania Bars, clubs, restaurants ·Chumley’s, 108 W. College Ave., State College;(814) 238-4446 (mixed). ·Club 231. 231 Pittsburgh St., Uniontown; (724) 430-1477. ·Escapade, 2523 Union Ave., Altoona, 16602; (814) 946-8195. ·Lucille’s, 520 Washington St., Johnstown; (814) 539-4448 ·Michael’s Café, 1413 11th Ave., Altoona, 16601; (814) 941-0803. ·Papermoon, 1325 State St., Erie, 16501; (814) 455-7766. ·Rumors in Town, 1413 11th Ave., rear, Altoona, 16602; (814) 941-0803. ·The Zone, 133 W. 18th St., Erie; (814) 452-0125. Organizations ·AIDS Intervention Project, PO Box 352, Altoona, 16603; 1-800-445-6262. ·Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual Help line of Altoona, (814) 942-8101. ·Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual Task Force, c/o Family & Children’s Service, 2022 Broad Ave., Altoona 16601; (814) 944-3583. ·Gay, Lesbian Switchboard, PO Box 805, State College, 16804; (814) 237-1950, 6-9pm. ·Gay, Lesbian Switchboard of North Central Pa., c/o Susquehanna Lambda, PO Box 2510, Williamsport, 17703; (717) 327-1411. ·IUP Alliance, 724-357-2598. ·Laurel Highlands Gay and Lesbian Alliance, PO Box 145, Somerset, 15501. ·Lawrence County AIDS Network, PO Box 1674, New Castle, 16103; 800-359-AIDS. ·League of G/L Voters, Erie. PO Box 8083, Erie, 16505; (814) 833-3258. ·League of G/L Voters, State College regional chapter. PO Box 10986, State College, 16805; (814) 237-5520. ·LGBTA Resource Center at Bloomsburg University, 266 Students Services Center, 400 East Second St. Bloomsburg PA 17815. ·LGBTA at Penn State, 101 Boucke Bldg. University Park, 16802, 814-863-1248. ·LGBA, PO Box 444, Slippery Rock, 16057; (724) 738-2939. ·Log Cabin Republican Clubs of Pennsylvania, 1903 Walnut St., Suite 175, Phila., 19103; (215) 247-6344. ·Mon Valley AIDS Task Force, Box 416, Monessen,15063;(724)258-1270. ·PA. Council for Sexual Minorities, 238 Main Capital Bldg., Harrisburg, 17120. ·Penn State Sexual Health Awareness Program, Ritenour Health Center, University Park, 16803; (814) 865-TALK. ·P-FLAG (Parents, Families, Friends of Lesbian and Gays) New Castle; (724) 658-3578. ·Project HOPE, 697 State Street, Beaver PA 15009; (724) 581-6825 or (724) 728-8220; projecthope_2009@yahoo.com. ·State College Gay Men’s Alliance, PO Box 545, State College, 16804. ·UPJ Alliance. 814-269-7065. Ext.7180. Ohio Bars, clubs, restaurants ·Adams St., 73-77 N. Adams St., Akron; (330) 4349794. ·Club MAXX, 122 N. Sixth St., Steubenville; (740) 284-1291. ·Crew, 304 Cherry Ave. NE, Canton; (330) 4522739. ·The Grid, 1437 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland; (216) 623-0113. ·Interbelt, 70 N. Howard St., Arkon; (330) 2535700. ·PJ’s at the FED, 169 N 4th St., St., Steubenville; (740) 283-2747. ·Pulse, 169 S. Four Mile Run Rd., Youngstown; (330)318-9830. ·Tear-EZ, 360 S. Main St., Akron; (330) 376-0011. ·Utopia, 876 E. Midlothian Blvd., Youngstown; (330) 781-9000. Lodging ·Circle JJ Ranch, 1104 Amsterdam Rd., Scio; (330) 627-3101.

·Freedom Valley, 1875 US 250 S, New London, OH; (419) 929-8100. Organizations ·Brotherhood Leather United Equal, Steubenville; www.blueohio.net. ·Live and Let Live, gay alcoholics, St. Newman Center, 26 Rayen Ave., Youngstown, 44503. ·Mahoning County Area Task Force on AIDS, PO Box 1143, Youngstown, 44501; (216) 742-8811. ·The Ohio State University Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgendered Alumni Society, PO Box 2012, Columbus, OH 43216; Jim Ryan, (614) 421-9389. ·Washington County AIDS Task Force, Marietta; (614) 374-9119. West Virginia Bars, clubs, restaurants ·Broadway, 210 Broad St., Charleston, 25301; (304) 343-2162. ·Driftwood, 1121 7th Ave., Huntington; (304) 6969858. ·Eagle’s Nest Club, 1500 Brinker Road, Wellsburg WV 26070. ·Lee St. Deli & Bar, 1111 Lee St. East, Charleston, 25301; (304) 343-3354. ·The New Electric Flag, 1044 Market St., Wheeling, 26003; (304) 639-8390. ·O-Zone, 1107 Main St., Wheeling; (304) 2320068. ·Polo Club, 1037 7Th Ave., Huntington, 25705; (304) 522-3146. ·Stonewall Club, 820 7th Ave. (alley entrance), Huntington, 25701; (304) 523-2242 ·Tap Room, 1022 Quarrier St., Charleston, 25301; (304) 342-9563. ·Trax, 504 Washington St., W., Charleston, 25302; (304) 345-8931. ·True Colors, 515 Market St. (rear), Parkersburg, 26101. (304) 428-8783 (TRUE). ·Vice Versa, 335 High St. (rear), Morgantown, 26505; (304) 292-2010. ·Weezies, 3438 University Ave., Morgantown, 26505; (304) 598-0088. ·WoodStarr Nightclub. 322 5th St. Parkersburg; (304) 422-3711. Lodging ·Eagle’s Nest, (412) 417-1099. ·Long Fork Campgrounds, Walton; www.longfork.com; (304) 577-9347. ·Roseland Resort, RD 1, Box 185B, Proctor, 26055; www.roselandWV.com; (304) 455-3838.

CMYK

CMYK

Pittsburgh Area Bars, clubs, restaurants ·941 Saloon. 941 Liberty Ave. (Downtown);2815222. ·1226 on Herron, 1226 Herron Ave. (Polish Hill); 682-6839. ·5801 on Ellsworth, 5801 Ellsworth Ave. (Shadyside); 661-5600. ·Acanthus Fine Dining, 604 W North Ave. (North Side); 231-6544. ·Blue Moon, 5115 Butler St. (Lawrenceville); 7811119. ·Brewer’s Hotel, 3315 Liberty Ave. (Lawrenceville); 681-7991. ·Cattivo, 146 44th St. (Lawrenceville); 687-2157. ·Cruze Bar, 1600 Smallman St. (Strip District); 471-1400. ·Hoi Polloi Vegetarian Café, 1100 Galveston Ave. (North Side); 586-4567. ·Images Pgh., 965 Liberty Ave. (Downtown); 3919990. ·Leather Central, 1226 Herron Ave. (Polish Hill); 682-9869. ·The Link, 91 Wendel Rd., Irwin (Herminie); (724) 446-7717. ·Longbada, 108 W. Pgh. St., Greensburg, 15601; (724) 837-6614. ·M&J’s Lounge, 124 Mercer St., Butler PA ·P-Town, 4740 Baum Blvd. (Oakland); 621-0111, ptownpgh.com. ·Real Luck Cafe, 1519 Penn Ave. (Strip District); 471-7832. ·Remedy, 5121 Butler St. (Lawrenceville); 7816771 ·Spin Bartini/Ultra Lounge, 5744 Ellsworth Ave. (Shadyside); 362-SPIN. ·Square Café, 1137 South Braddock Ave. (Regent Square); 244.8002. ·There Ultra Lounge, 931 Liberty Ave. (Downtown); 642-4435. ·Tilden, 941 Liberty Ave., 2nd floor (Downtown); 391-0804.

·The Inn on the Mexican War Streets (Northside); 231-6544.

Organizations ·AIDS Task Force of the Upper Ohio Valley/Buddy Program, PO Box 6360, Wheeling, 26003; (304) 232-6822. ·BiGLT Mountaineers WVU, Morgantown, 26506;(304) 293-8200; BiGLTM@hotmail.com ·Bisexual, Gay and Lesbian Mountaineers (BiGLM), PO Box 6444, SOW, WVU Morgantown 26506 (304) 293-8200. ·Charleston AIDS Network, PO Box 1024, Charleston, 25324; (304) 345-4673; www.aidsnet.net. ·Friends Who Care, PWHIV support, Joni Constante, (304) 292-8234. ·G/L Alcoholics Anonymous, Wednes-days, 7pm; St. John’s Espiscopal Church, 1105 Quarrier St, Charleston, 25301. ·Huntington AIDS Task Force, PO Box 2981, Huntington, 25728; (304) 522-4357. ·Mid-Ohio Valley AIDS Task Force, PO Box 1184, Parkersburg, 26101; (304) 485-4803. ·Mountain State AIDS Network, 235 High St., #306, Morgantown, 26505; 800-585-4444. ·PFLAG (Parents, Family and Friends of Lesbian and Gays) Parkersburg, PO Box 836, Parkersburg, 26102; (304) 428-8089. ·P-FLAG (Parents, Families, Friends of Lesbian and Gays) Wheeling, 115 18th St., Wheeling, 26003; Liz (304) 232-8743 or (740) 484-4141. ·Together in Pride, PO Box 836, Parkersburg, 26102. ·WV Coalition for Lesbian, Gay Rights, PO Box 11033, Charleston, 25339; (304) 343-7305.

OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 13

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For those looking to 2012: the future is queer by Charlene Lichtenstein Ring a few bells for the end of 2011 and for the expectation of a great 2012. And why not? The planets to watch are lucky Jupiter and inspirational Neptune as they change signs mid-year and provide fodder for our future happiness. Drama becomes dramady and revolutions revolve and evolve. Not a moment too soon.

Aries (March 21-Apil 20)

Secrets and behind the scenes romances fill your world. It is all at once delightful and somewhat stressful. How will you keep track of all of this hidden stuff? The answer is that you won’t. But then again there are some things that just need to be revealed. Learn to go with the cosmic flow in 2012. Gay Rams sparkle in a crowd. All the better to showcase your assets.

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What is it that you really want from the new year? Perhaps connection? Get out of your shell and mix it up with some platonic pals. The upcoming months will become increasingly socia-Bull with you in the epicenter of the action. Of course that means greater responsibility to help plan the goings on and the costs associated with funding good times. Start to save now....

Gemini (May 22-June 21)

What is it that you want out of your career? Are you content to be where you are or do you have designs on the executive suite? There is nothing wrong with ambition. In fact, ambition is what can catapult you upward. It is time to focus on your ultimate corporate game plan. Making

the right moves now will help you slide into a cushy retirement later.

Cancer (June 22-July 23)

Any long distance travel has its crazy and dizzy adventures, so be prepared to take the circuitous route to wherever. But that is what makes life so exciting! Gay Crabs are naturally friendly and now your schmoozability glides you into various inner sanctums and cadres. Power is yours. Heh heh. Have you ever thought about becoming a spy? Or is it a snoop...?

Leo (July 24-Aug. 23)

Proud Lions will sizzle in their own juices through the year. You are not only especially sexy and alluring, you are also intense, passionate and acrobatic. Whoo hoo. Get on your trapeze and see how you can trap ’em with ease. Admirers come and beat on your door. The secret to your amorous success is to be choosy, discrete and discerning. Uh oh.

Virgo (Aug. 24-Sept. 23)

Although the temptation is to kanoodle with a bevy of love possibilities, the cosmos suggests that you focus on one in particular. If you are currently ensconced in a relationship, do what you can to make it even better. If you are on the prowl, expand your field and focus your hunt. I hear there are some pretty big guns in town. Let’s see your arsenal

Libra (Sept. 24-Oct. 23)

Resolve to be more productive in the new year. Proud Continued on page 23

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PAGE 12 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

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IN WITH THE OUT CROWD

A GAY BAR FOR MEN AND WOMEN

Variety of events coincide with World AIDS Day Also that evening, Educating Teens About HIV/AIDS sponsored the 7th annual Red Ribbon Gala at the Omni William Penn. The project was developed by Kezia L. Ellison while in high school as a project for the PA Governor’s School for Excellence in Health Care. The next evening the play Looking for Magic premiered at the University of Pittsburgh’s Henry Heymann Theater, with support from the Pitt Men’s Study, the LAMBDA Foundation and the Actor’s Co-Op. Based on playwright Beverly Pollock’s loss of her two sons to AIDS, the play was a moving tribute to their memory and surprisingly filled with humor. Also that night, Sheppard Wellness Community held its annual Friends of Wellness dinner with help from the Delta Foundation. A sumptuous holiday meal was served, headed up by Gary Van Horn—he cooks and teaches cooking, who knew? The meal, which put my family holiday dinner to shame, was one of the best meals I’ve enjoyed in a long time. The Friends of Wellness dinner was started by Herb Beatty, Donny Thinnes and Bill Kaelin 27 years ago when all they had to feed was about 32 people. This year the room was packed. Seen at the press conference were Richard Smith, Ted Hover, Jim Sheppard and Judy Sylvester. At the Red Ribbon Gala: Ruthie King, Charles Christen, Harry Blackwell, Sabrina Clark, Allen Brown and Vince Simms. And at Looking for Magic: Brian Rohleder, Dory Perry, Buzz Puzateri, Hugh McGough, Rick Allison, Ed Motznik and Jim, Marc Wagner and his partner Brian, Jan Carlino, Joseph Plummer, Sarah Mohr, Rich Vin- Cladera’s final performance ski and Cyndee Klemanski. On Dec. 3, Three Rivers Leather Club held its annual toy drive at Leather Central for Allegheny Youth Services. The toy drive is led by an enthusiastic Ky Eaton who was spotted at several other bars and clubs trying to raise funds for the kids. A leather flea market and raffle were held the night I stopped by. Seen at the fund raiser: Jessi Strucaly, Jim McGoldric, Matthew Bronson, Doc and Rege Maloney. Also that night, the annual SPARK party, a fundraiser for the Delta Foundation, was held at Bill Chisnell Productions Studio on Penn Avenue downtown. It was at this moment that I realized I was no longer being stalked by Chris Bryan—my new stalker is Gary Van Horne. RAJA, the 3rd season winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race was the featured performer. Gorgeous, talented and low maintenance, she posed for the cameras with everyone on the street. Miss Marsha Monster Mellow was even

PAGE 22 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

getting chummy with her—and Raja’s just as tall as Marsha. Seen at Spark: Tom Freggens, Tony Grecco, Lola Laquoix, Jessica Levine and John McMarland. On Dec. 10 the 35th annual Miss Gay Pittsburgh Contest was held at There Ultra Lounge on Liberty Ave. Hosted by the ever so lovely Kierra Darshall, it was standing room only as Geogia B. Cummings, Ann Fu Yung, Miraha Black Dickerson, Lady Diamond and Celine Dashawn competed for the crown. The gowns were gorgeous, the hairdos as high as the contestants’ hopes. A bevy of Pittsburgh’s finest drag performers were on hand, watching and participating in the show. Mr. Leather Fetish 2011 Matthew Bronson along with last year’s Mr. Leather Fetish “Dean” were brought on stage to speak. After the judges tallied their votes, the new Miss Gay Pittsburgh is: Celine Dashawn. Congratulations to all the contestants and thanks for a fun evening. The Renaissance City Choirs held their annual holiday performance on Dec. 10 at the Carnegie Music Hall in Oakland. Titled “Don we now our gay apparel,” the concert featured fan favorites like the “12 Days of Christmas” with audience participation and with past choir members joining the current members on stage to sing, which I always find touching and usually start crying. I cried a lot that night, more on that in a minute. In Act 2, which has also become a tradition, the Edgewood Symphony Orchestra joins the choir and it is truly a magical experience. Which means more tears. And, of course, the choir performed their signature comedic numbers, including this year’s “Veronica” featuring soloist Cookie Gibbs singing about all she wanted for Hanukah was Veronica; “Shalom Santa” with soloist Chad Elder, who is very charming in a boyish way, singing about his Catholic and Jewish upbringing and the foibles of celebrating two holidays; and what may have been the Men’s Choir’s best piece ever, “Thriller Christmas,” complete with Michal Jackson moves and words adapted for the holiday season to the famous Jackson song. I was not the only one crying that night. An important announcement was made, Artistic Director Andres Cladera and his partner George Kacenga are in the process of leaving Pittsburgh and heading off for new adventures in Denver, Colorado. Cladera’s talents and personality will be missed. It was so very painful to watch him say goodbye. I’m a big fan and friend. He bid his farewell and told how the RCC helped him become more open about his sexuality to his friends and family, and he has become empowered enough to tell his father that it’s OK to be gay. I have never had that conversation with my father, and I applaud you Andres. He then addressed the children in the audience, telling them if you ever hear anyone talk bad about a gay person, “You tell them to stop.” A very moving moment—OK, I’m crying again as I write this. Thank you Andres for your soulful and playful contributions and George for your kindness and friendship over the years. We all wish you well. And I have to mention some of the events that took place back in November, which we couldn’t include in our last issue because of our earlier deadline. Nov. 17 kicked off the opening of Microscopic Opera’s newest production, Three Decembers. Written by Jake Heggie, this chamber opera is about a “typical” dysfunctional family in San Francisco, spanning three decades of their lives. Performed at the Pittsburgh Opera, the show was directed by Lisa Ann Goldsmith and features Mary Gold as celebrated actress and matriarch Madeline Mitchell. The daughter Beatrice (played by Eric Olden) is in an unsatisfying marriage and has taken to the bottle. Son Charlie (played by Daniel Teadt), whose lover is dying

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from AIDS, is coming to terms with his homosexuality. Consisting of three vignettes, each one ends in utter sadness and despair. Sounds like Christmas with the family. Microscopic Opera was founded by Erica Olden and Andres Cladera to create innovative, moving and intimate productions of contemporary chamber opera. I’ve found their productions to be good primers for those who would like to learn more about opera. On Nov. 26, Sharon Needles and troupe performed in another outrageous drag show at the Blue Moon—they perform there on a regular basis. This time up their take off Sister Act, repurposed as Sister Axe, a satanic musical comedy featured Needles, Alaska Thvnderfvck Amy Vodkahaus, Veruca la’Piranha and Cherri Baum: the show was a sellout. The show was hilarious. Thanks to Blue Moon for doubling as a performance venue for the “girls.” And on Nov. 30, the Pittsburgh nude male yoga group held their annual holiday party “Bare as You Dare” at their studio space in Millville. The group which usually has practice in the space each Wednesday opted to socialize that evening. I took this opportunity to ask many questions about nude yoga and nude gatherings in general, as Pittsburgh has become Celine Dashawn such a hotbed of nude parties and bar outings (private). The party was fun, the men were in various states of dress and undress, and after a while you don’t even notice the nakedness. (OK so the eyes still tend to look down at times.) I took the opportunity to talk with yoga instructors Gene Evangelist and Ian Price to remind me why yoga and nudity go together. Two years ago I tried nude yoga myself but wasn’t sure if it was for me. The yoga classes run 90 minutes with Continued on page 23

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Contined from page 1

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STARGAYZER

For those looking to 2012: the future is queer Continued from page 21

Libras can be very efficient at getting small tasks out of the way. Now look at the big picture by working on projects that have long term impact and benefits. This can be job related but it can also involve health and diet. If you are going to be a corporate rat on a treadmill you might as well consider it exercise.

Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

How much fun can a queer Scorp have without getting into mischief? Ah there is always a catch! Eat, drink and be very merry and see how far your good looks, talents and creativity can get you. For some it will be to the top of the party list. For others it may be in creating a personal masterpiece. Whatever it is, do it with flair... or fog and mirrors.

It ain’t your grandma’s bingo…but bring her anyhow!

Sagittarus (Nov. 23-Dec. 22)

Plan some long deferred home renovations and overall improvements. You need to get your ship in ship-shape for the hordes of expected and unexpected friends and family who cruise through during the year. For those gay Archers who prefer to lounge around the house in peace and quiet, forgetaboutit. There are too many lounge lizards raiding your refrigerator.

SATURDAY th

Capricorn (Dec. 23-Jan. 20)

th

Jan. 14 • Feb. 11 Mar. 10th • Apr. 28th

If you have an opinion or five be prepared to blurt it out and explain yourself. Some of your more inflammatory

A COUPLE OF GUYS

Aquarius (Jan. 21-Feb. 19)

As thrifty as you strive to be, there will be some expensive temptations tossed in your path this year. Will you be swayed to spend? Loosening up your money belt and showing your green may not be a bad thing on occasion, Aqueerius. You only live once, as far as we know. Why live it on yesterday’s chopped meat when you can afford today’s sirloin?

Pisces (Feb. 20-March 20) For those Guppies who agitate best in the background, be warned that this year all of your assorted antics are on full display and in public view. Anything you do or say can turn up on the front pages... or the gossip column. So fine tune your personal message, update your “look” and adhere to the rules of press and publicity. Then stand back world. For Entertainment Purposes Only. © 2012 THE STARRY EYE, LLC., All Rights Reserved. Lichtenstein’s blog www.thestarryeye.typepad.com covers everything new age. Her astrology book HerScopes; A Guide To Astrology For Lesbians is the best in tongue-in-cheek astrology. Order now at tinyurl.com/herscopes

IN WITH THE OUT CROWD

World AIDS Day events continued Continued from page 22

a small social gathering at the end, and you can burn up to 500- 600 calories, depending on how hard you work during a session. The nudity helps you break through the ego and become more comfortable with yourself. Personally I was comfortable in my Armani Jacket, but that’s just my

level of comfort. At the party: Chris Shelton, Scott Smith, Dave Marshall, Craig Melichar and Pittsburgh’s former Survivor celebrity, Chett Welch. Happy Holidays to everyone! Email invites, social events and rumors, or just say hi: john@outonline.com

BITTER GIRL

SITE

Rodef Shalom in Oakland

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ideas gain ground and take root. Suddenly folks are listening to what you say and follow your lead. A political reformer is formed. What will you do with this new found influence? Will you use it for goodness or nastiness. Oh, let’s guess.

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For more information or table reservations, call the GLCC at 412-422-0114. Table reservations are for advance-purchased tickets only and will not be held past 7:00pm Event proceeds benefit the Gay & Lesbian Community Center and the Shepherd Wellness Community. OUTrageous Bingo conducted by permit to Shepherd Wellness Community.

PAGE 10 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

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OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 23

OUT AND ABOUT

FEATURE

Get connected to those in the know The sound of movies The M2M Project offers a safe and confidential place for men to get information on HIV testing, substance use and safe sex. Receive up to $140 in gift cards for participating. Text FndOut to 76274 or call 412-804-1725.

You’ve got to express yourself Let your inner child dance along with Tony awardwinning Billy Elliot: The Musical from Jan. 31 through Feb. 12 at the Benedum Center. Tickets are available by calling 412-456-4800 or online at trustarts.org.

Spring comes early this year Behold the joy of spring this winter as Pittsburgh Musical Theater presents Spring Awakening: A New Musical from Jan. 26-Feb. 4 at the Byham Theater. For ticket information call 412-456-6666 or pittsburghmusicals.com/springawakening.

NIGHTLIFE Get the party started in W Va The parties keep coming at Vice Versa, Morgantown’s hottest night club. January events include the Black & White Party on Jan. 14 with Sasha and India Ferrah from RuPaul’s Drag Race. Then on Jan. 28 Chi Chi Ray Colby hos’s Leather & Levi’s Fetish with Raging Stallion exclusive star Jason Michaels. Vice Versa is at 335 High St. in Morgantown, WV.

Don’t miss any of the Steelers action on the 8-foot screen at Real Luck Café, a gay bar for men and women, at 1519 Penn Ave. in the Strip District. Game days include free souvenirs, free buffet and the chance to win a Big Ben autographed football. Hot male dancers strut their stuff nightly Wednesdays-Sundays. Start the New Year right on Jan. 1 at 5pm with free Alka-Seltzer and aspirin, nude male dancers and a free sauerkraut and kielbasa buffet.

Be grateful for the Steelers... …and that you can watch them play at 5801 on Ellsworth. Catch all the action in HD. Doors open Sundays at 12:30pm for 1pm games and at 3:30pm for 4pm kickoffs. Don’t miss daily happy hours from 6-8pm. 5801 is open Monday-Saturday at 4pm. The video lounge and café is located at 5801 Ellsworth Ave.

It’s time for a Cruze

There’s a website that addresses the specific needs of lesbians of color. It’s OurSistaCircle. Meet and discuss issues unique to lesbians of color, such as sexual orientation, gender, class and race. Check it out at www.oursistacircle.com and chat with women from all over the world.

Steve Jobs is Off the Wall

B-I-N-G-O!

The Andy Warhol Museum presents The Agony and the Ecstasy of Steve Jobs, the first show in the 2012 season of the Off The Wall performance series, on Jan. 21 at the Byham Theater. The show stars critically acclaimed writer and commentator Mike Daisey, and ticket information is available at 412-456-6666 or online at www.pgharts.org.

Book your table and get your cards because it’s time for OUTrageous Bingo at 6:30pm on Jan. 14. “It ain’t your grandma’s bingo…but bring her anyhow” to Rodef Shalom in Oakland. Reserve your table now at 412-4220114.

Laugh away your winter blues

Shepherd Wellness Community is there to help members of the HIV+ community with meals, films, free classes, yoga, discussion groups and more. Find out their full slate of activities—or how you can volunteer—by calling them at 412-683-4477 or visit www.scwonline.org.

The Pittsburgh Public Theater presents two shows to tickle your funny bone this winter. The Second City troupe stars in Laugh Out Loud! Jan. 5 and 6 at 8pm and Jan. 7 at 5:30 and 9pm. Then Ted Pappas directs Shakespeare’s As You Like It, which will be showing from Jan. 19 thru Feb. 19. Tickets are available at 412316-1600 or ppt.org.

Prime Timers set Jan. events Pittsburgh Prime Timers is holding its monthly social/potluck supper at the United Methodist Church on Jan. 12. RSVP by January 10. On Jan. 19 they will dine out at Sesame Inn in Mt. Lebanon. RSVP by Jan. 17. The monthly breakfast at Ritter’s Diner will be on Jan. 28 at 10am. Meet in the parking lot.

Putter and learn about nature Learn all about the environment while playing miniature golf at Linnvilla Orchard’s Fore! The Planet, an 18-hole interactive indoor mini-golf course, in Media, PA. Open Sun.-Thurs. 9am-5pm and Fri. and Sat. 9am-8pm. Closed January 1. For more information visit www.linvilla.com.

You can’t keep a Caveman down Due to popular demand Pittsburgh CLO has extended the run of Defending the Caveman through Jan. 15 at the CLO Cabaret. In addition, two Sunday evening performances have been added on Jan. 8 and 15 at 7pm. Event tickets are available online or by calling 412-4566666.

A sensitive Man

Don’t miss the boat—head down to Cruze Bar in January. Stop in for a libation on Jan. 20 at the Lez Liquor Hour, 5:30-10pm. Then return Jan. 27 to see Work. Fierce. Over Aviance! a live performance by Kevin Aviance at 11pm. Cruze Bar is located at 1600 Smallman St. in the Strip District.

Check out a showing of local artist Dan Stout’s work at the Gay and Lesbian Community Center’s exhibit: A Sensistive Artist, the Work of Dan Stout. The exhibit runs through Jan. 27. The GLCC is located at 210 Grant St. in downtown Pittsburgh, or online at www.glccpgh.org.

New Year’s resolution: stop in at Club Pittsburgh

Persad offices open in Erie

DJ Billy will play your requests every Saturday night in January at Club Pittsburgh. Get tied up at Steel City Fetish Night on Jan. 8 starting at 7pm. Check out www.clubpittsburgh.com for events and weekly specials happening in January at Club Pittsburgh, located at 1139 Penn Avenue, downtown.

PAGE 24 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

Bringing 40 years of professional, confidential and non-judgmental counseling experience, the Persad Center is now open in Erie. Persad offers help with relationships, emotional problems, coping with HIV/AIDS, sexual identity issues, gender transitions, issues of aging, youth and family conflicts, etc. Call 814-864-9064 or go online to www.persadcenter.org.

SWC has it all

Holiday Meal for the homeless Start the New Year off right with Caritas House, which will be sponsoring a New Year’s Day dinner for homeless individuals on Jan. 1 at 3:30pm at the Morgantown Bus Depot in Morgantown, WV. Volunteers are needed to help serve—just arrive at the depot at 3:30pm.

Share in Dreams for the future Local LGBT and allied youth will be sharing their experience and hopes at the August Wilson Center in their free show Being In, Being Out on Jan. 22, 4-6pm. The first show of the 2012 Season for Dreams of Hope Youth Performance Troupe includes spoken word, movement, drama, percussion and song. The August Wilson Center for African American Culture is located at 980 Liberty Ave. in downtown Pittsburgh.

Organization offers welcoming community to LGBT families Continued from page 1

and has since grown to around 45 families. The group meets locally for monthly potluck dinners and other social events and serves as a network of support for common issues and resources. “It’s been really helpful for me to see other gay people who have chosen to become parents,” Dennis said. “Through my own coming-out process it seemed, as a woman, it was expected that I have kids, but then I thought ‘Maybe I couldn’t.’ The group really helped that.” The social support Dennis and other members describe is two-fold: support for the parents and support for the children. While Dennis feels the main focus is often on the parents because “if the adults are healthy, the kids will be healthy, too,” the group also provides the children with other examples of similar families. “You can read them all the books you want,” she said, referring to children’s books like Heather Has Two Mommies, “but kids also need to see it and have friends that relate.” FLO member Bill Gesin agrees. “It shows a little variety in families, so our son sees that it exists, even if it isn’t always the norm,” said Gesin, who along with his partner has a 20-month old son. Gesin said joining FLO was important to him because most of the same-sex parents he knew before joining last year were out of state, while he and his partner wanted some local support and examples for their son. However, Janice Anderson, an original FLO member who with her partner was the first lesbian couple to have a second-parent adoption in Allegheny County, jokes that sometimes the parents worry more than they need to. She recalls a story where when her son was very young and kept asking for something that sounded like his “deddi.” Thinking he was asking for his “daddy,” she and her partner, Pat, frantically worked to provide their son with a narrative of his biological family and how he came to have two mothers. Later, they found out he was really asking for something that sounded more like “sgetti”—or, spaghetti. Dennis also feels the group of gay parents is essential to many LGBT people who may feel that they have given up some of their gay identity and community for a new type of life. “You start to step into this new realm,” she said, “where you don’t stay out late, you don’t go to bars, but you stay in and have family movie nights. The group has really helped us not to feel isolated.” In fact, not feeling isolated was a key reason Diana Polson, her partner and their 3 year-old child joined the group. After living in the San Francisco Bay area, the couple was really hesitant about how they would be received and supported in Pittsburgh. Luckily, Polson said, they had their eye on FLO before they even moved this summer and have been pleased with the amount of social support and resources the group has provided them with. In addition to the social events like monthly potlucks, cookie exchanges and camping trips, Dennis also said the group provides shared resources for dentists, lawyers, doctors, contractors, etc. “Anything a GLBT family could need a referral to, we have it on the list,” she said. The group, especially through its Facebook page, also offers a giveaway section where members can pass along baby/kid items that others may need. Members can also discuss common issues like secondparent adoptions, artificial insemination, legal hurdles and

the works. To join FLO, Dennis recommends either attending a monthly potluck or connecting with members first through the group’s Facebook page—which is closed to the general public only for the privacy of its members.

Dennis just asks that members be LGBT people who either already have children or are looking to do so soon. To reach out to one of the group leaders, visit: http://www.facebook.com/groups/FamiliesLikeOurs/.

You’re Sexier with your eyes open.

CMYK

CMYK

May this year be the luckiest

Check it out

Take a trip through movie music history Jan. 26-29 at Heinz Hall when the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra’s PNC Pops! presents Marvin and the Movies with saxophone legend Dave Koz and conducted by Marvin Hamlisch. For information and tickets call 412-392-4900 or go online at pittsburghsymphony.org.

Get connected to the M2M Project for the info you need to stay strong and sexy by texting the number below. The M2M Project gives men a safe and confidential place to find information about HIV testing, substance use and safe sex. You can even earn up to $140 in gift cards for participating.

Talk to someone who knows where you’re coming from.

Text FndOut to 76274 or call 412.804.1725.

OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 9

WHAT’S HAPPENING – WEEKLY

‘Obama, with all his faults’ is still our best choice

“What’s Happening” is compiled from information supplied by business advertisers and event sponsors. Efforts are made to ensure accuracy, but sponsors and readers are urged to inform Out of changes, cancellations and incorrect or outdated listings. Send e-mail to calendar@outonline.com or write to Calendar Editor, Out, 801 Bingham St., Suite 100, Pittsburgh, PA 15203. Consult Out’s “Resources” guide in this issue or at www.outonline.com for addresses and phone numbers of businesses and organizations where not listed.

by Jesse Monteagudo In 1904 the New York Sun published the following one-line endorsement of Theodore Roosevelt, then running for a full term as President of the United States: “Theodore! with all thy faults . . .” What the editors of the Sun were trying to say was that the Republican Roosevelt, though far from perfect, was a better choice than his opponents: Judge Alton B. Parker (Democrat) and Eugene V. Debs (Socialist). T.R. eventually won, carrying most of what were then 45 states, while Parker’s support was limited to the “solid South” (minus Missouri). Like voters before and since, most Americans who voted in 1904 chose the lesser of many evils. In 2008 most Americans, tired of the George W. Bush administration, voted for “Hope and Change” and elected Barack Obama as President. Obama’s election, along with the election of a Democratic Congress, was supposed to usher a new Progressive Age in American politics. That, of course, never happened. The economy, which was bad enough under Bush, only got worse. Obama seemed unable, or unwilling, to exercise the strong leadership needed to pass legislation or change the political culture. Obama could not even sell the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, his most important achievement. By the mid-term elections of 2010, Obama had disillusioned his base, alienated independents and energized the opposition. The result was the grassroots, right-wing movement we know as the Tea Party and an election that gave the GOP the House of Representatives and most state governments. Under our constitutional system of government, no one has his or her own way, and those of us who cheered Obama to victory were fools to think Obama would be our new secular messiah. This was partly due to Obama himself, who promised too many things to too many people. But political leaders, like the world, can break your heart, and Obama disappointed us in ways no other President, not even Jimmy Carter or Bill Clinton, ever could. It’s no wonder that once-progressive individuals who supported the President on his way to the White House are doing little or nothing to help him stay there; some going so far as to back one of his Republican opponents. Among these former fans are many lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender people, who expected Obama to do for us what he promised, only to learn that he is just another politician. Barack Obama’s record on LGBT issues is far from perfect. But he is the most LGBT-friendly President in history, and much better than most of the Republican candidates. Though the President’s views on same-sex marriage are still “evolving”—and how much of that is a ploy to keep the fundamentalist wolves at bay?—he seems to support the rights of lesbian or gay couples in many ways short of the dreaded “M word.” Thanks to Obama (though not as much as he would like us to believe), openly LesBiGay (but not Trans) people can serve in the U.S. armed forces, and HIV+ individuals can enter the US. The Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act expanded the federal hate crimes law to cover sexual orientation and gender identity. A record number of LGBT people have been appointed to executive positions, judgeships and U.S. embassies abroad. Though there are many reasons to criticize Obama, his record on LGBT issues should not be one of them. Like the New York Sun in 1904, I support the President, for all his faults, because he is better than the op-

PAGE 8 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

position. Republican candidates, seeking the votes of the religious right and the Tea Party right, have largely thrown their lot with those who oppose equal rights for LGBT Americans. Not all Republican candidates oppose LGBT rights. GOP candidates Fred Karger—openly gay and ignored— and Gary Johnson—not gay but equally ignored—support all or most LGBT issues; while Jon Huntsman backs civil unions and domestic partnerships. On the other hand, Michelle Bachmann, Newt Gingrich, Ron Paul, Rick Perry, Mitt Romney and Rick Santorum compete against each other to see who is the most homophobic candidate. These candidates and their supporters oppose “gay marriage,” back the return of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and, all in all, want to turn back the clock

as far as we (or anyone else) are concerned. There are other reasons why I plan to vote for Barack Obama in 2012; not because he’s perfect but because he’s the best choice. Will Obama disappoint us again? Perhaps. Most second term Presidents have. On the other hand, what does not kill us politically might make us stronger, and Obama might become a more effective leader in his second term than he’s been in his first term. In a political world of sharp divisions, of the Tea Party and Occupy Wall Street, trying to please everyone, which is what Obama tried to do, is the worst sin. Perhaps he’s learned his lesson.

Radio guest equals homosexuality with pedophilia by D’Anne Witkowski Newsflash: homosexuality and pedophilia are not the same things. Equating the two makes as much sense as equating adopting a pet kitty from a shelter with luring a stray into your yard so you can torture and kill him. Surely anyone who thought the two were the same would be insane. Though they still might be invited to talk on Public Radio International, specifically the To the Point program, when the topics are the Penn State child abuse scandal and same-sex couples adopting kids. Nice juxtaposition there, guys. Special guest on the program was Jerry Cox of the Arkansas Family Council, a group that tried like the dickens to prevent gays and lesbians from being foster parents in Arkansas to no avail. Cox seemed to equate gays wanting to foster or adopt children with Penn State child-rapist Jerry Sandusky (who fostered kids in the past). Not that this comparison makes sense, but that’s not Cox’s job. His job is to spew anti-gay invective whenever a microphone gets near his face. “I find it interesting that we talk about the Penn State situation, and then when we talk about other situations where certain categories of people say it’s our right to adopt, it’s our right to be a foster parent, in both of those situations the rights of children seem to be put in second place,” Cox said. Let’s crack the code. “Certain categories of people” most certainly means gays. And when he says “in both of these situations” Cox is clearly equating letting a known child-rapist foster children with allowing gay people to foster children. In only one of these “situations” are the rights and needs of a child “in second place.” Hint: it’s the child being fostered by the child rapist and second place is far too high of a finish. Last place is more like it. For Cox, the most important things to look for in a foster family are one penis and one vagina. “If you have a same-sex couple with an adopted child, what you’re in effect saying is that moms don’t matter or dads don’t matter,” he said. “Little girls grow up, little boys grow up and they need both of those role models to grow up in a balanced way.” Mind you, Sandusky is a married-to-a-woman man, which means his family structure meets these criteria. What Cox means by balanced, I don’t know. Perhaps he’s worried two moms will teach a boy to pee sitting down or two dads might teach a girl to pee standing up. When To the Point hosts suggested that children would perhaps be better off in a house with same-sex par-

ents rather than languishing in the foster care system, Cox rejected the notion. “Sometimes we sound as if those are the only two choices,” Cox said. “It’s like, child be institutionalized or be in a same-sex home or cohabiting home, or whatever. And I’d like to challenge this a little bit, to raise our sights a little bit, and say, you know, the state surely can do better than that.” Yeah, stupid state. Being stuck in an orphanage on one hand, living in a household with two stable and loving foster parents who happen to be gay on the other. It’s like Sophie’s choice! Of course, says Cox, those aren’t the only options. “With all the millions of stable homes that are out there, surely the state of California, the state of Pennsylvania, the state of Arkansas, wherever we are, surely we can find stable homes with a married mom and dad for these children,” he said. Got that? There are millions of homes with stable one-penis-one-vagina structures oh so perfect for foster children. The problem is they’re apparently very well hidden. We’re just not looking hard enough. So come out, come out wherever you are. Cox has a pick-up truck full of kids with your (heterosexual only, please) names all over it.

Every Sunday in January

•Male dancers: P-Town, Real Luck Café. •Steeler Game Sunday Party: Real Luck Café. Free buffet, souvenirs, prizes. Info: 412-471-7832. •Worship: Metropolitan Community Church. Friends Meeting House, Shadyside. 7pm. Info: 412-683-2994. •Worship: Dignity. Roman Catholic mass followed by social. Church of the Redeemer, 5700 Forbes Ave., Squirrel Hill. 7pm. Info: 412-362-4334. •Worship: Gay-welcoming Holy Eucharist. St. Andrew Lutheran Church, 304 Morewood Ave., Shadyside. 11am. Info: 412-682-3342. •Worship: Allegheny Open Arms United Church of Christ, 707 East St., North Side. 10:30am, Info: 412-321-1328, www.alleghenyopenarms.org. •Worship: OneChurch. Bricolage Theater, 937 Liberty Ave., downtown. 1pm. Info: 412-390-5400. •Worship: Community House Presbyterian Church, 120 Parkhurst St, North Side. 10:45am. 412-321-3900. •Meditation, worship: Pittsburgh Center for Spiritual Living, 5655 Bryant St., Highland Park. 10am. Info: 412-362-5096, www.oneintruth.com. •YOGA with Mike! GLCC. 4:30-6:30pm. 412-422-0114.

Every Monday in January

•Male Dancers: Real Luck Café. •Rapid oral HIV testing: Pittsburgh AIDS Task Force, 5913 Penn Ave., East Liberty. 9am-5pm. Info: 412-345-7456, www.patf.org. •TransPitt phone line: 7-9:30pm. Info: 412-454-5557 or transpitt_org@yahoo.com. •Recovery: Into Action AA, Church of the Redeemer, 5700 Forbes Ave., Squirrel Hill. 7:30pm. •Support: Sex, Love Addicts Anonymous: Calvary Episcopal Church, Shady Av-

enue and Walnut Street, Shadyside. 7pm. Info: 412-441-0956.

Every Tuesday in January

•Male dancers: Images. 6-8pm, 10:30pm. •Frontrunners: meet at Columbus statue in Schenley Park, 7pm; run at 7:10pm. Info: 412-481-5549, www.pittsburgh-frontrunners.org. •Worship: supper, 6pm; gay-welcoming Holy Eucharist, 7pm. St. Andrew Lutheran Church, 304 Morewood Ave., Shadyside. Info: 412-682-3342. •Support: Just for Today AA, First United Methodist Church, Centre and South Aiken Avenues, Shadyside. 7:30pm. •Radio: This Way Out. WYEP 91.3. 7:30pm. •Buddy Night at Club Pittsburgh. 412-471-6790.

Every Wednesday in January

•Karaoke: P-Town. •Dinner: Shepherd Wellness Community. 6pm. 412-683-4477 or www.swconline.org. •Flying Colors GLBT bicycle riding group: meet at statue in front of Phipps Conservatory, Oakland; rides depart at 6:45pm. Info: send e-mail to pghbikeguy@verizon.net. •Gospel singing: with the OneVoice Choir. Wood Street Galleries, Sixth and Wood Streets, downtown. 6:30pm. Info: 412-281-4655. •Recovery: Gay, Lesbian, Friends AA. Fayette County Health Center, 100 New Salem Rd., Uniontown. 8pm. Info: 724-439-3173. •Recovery: Sober as Folk AA. Church of the Redeemer, 5700 Forbes Ave., Squirrel Hill. 7:30pm. Info: 412-373-3739. •Support: Sex, Love Addicts Anonymous. West View United Methodist Church, Princeton and Center Avenues, West View. 12:15pm; St. Peter’s Church, 720 Arch St., North Side. 6:30pm. Info: 412-441-0956. •Nude Male Yoga. 7pm. 115 Sedgewick Street, Millvale. •Male dancers: Real Luck Café, P-Town.

Every Thursday in January

•Positive OUTlook. Health issues in the LGBT community. 1pm. www.outonline.com. •Karaoke: Images. 9:30pm. •Rapid oral HIV testing: by Pittsburgh AIDS Task Force. Women only: Miryam’s,

1410 Fifth Ave., Uptown, 11am-3pm; all welcome: GLCC, 6-9pm. Info: 412-2422500, www.patf.org. •Frontrunners: meet at Columbus statue in Schenley Park, 7pm; run at 7:10pm. Info: 412-481-5549, www.pittsburgh-frontrunners.org. •Recovery: Celebrate Sobriety AA, First Unitarian Church, Ellsworth and Morewood Avenues, Oakland. 8pm; Beaver County AA/NA meeting, 2pm, Info: 724-375-0760. •Free rapid HIV testing, 6-9pm, GLCC, 412-422-0114. •Yoga for HIV+ people. 5:15pm. Shepherd Wellness Center. 412-683-4477.

Every Friday in January

•Deep, Dark and Naked Fridays. Club Pittsburgh. 412-471-6790. •Male dancers: Images, Real Luck Café, and P-Town. •Recovery: New Hope, beginners and regular AA, Church of the Redeemer, 5700 Forbes Ave., Squirrel Hill, 7pm; Joy of Living AA, Trinity Lutheran Church, North and Buena Vista Avenues, North Side, 8pm; Rainbow Bridge NA meeting, Persad Center, 7pm. •Support: Sex, Love Addicts Anonymous; East Liberty Presbyterian Church, 116 S. Highland Ave. 7:30pm. 412-441-0956. •HIV Wellness Dinner; 6pm; Shepherd Wellness Center, 412-683-4477 or www.swconline.org. Check for weekly location. •Youth Drop-In. GLCC. 7-10pm. 412-422-0114. •Good Fridays. Half price admission and cash bar. The Andy Warhol Museum. 5pm-10pm.

Every Saturday in January

•Frontrunners: meet at Columbus statue, Schenley Park. 9am; run at 9:10am. Info: 412-481-5549, www.pittsburgh-frontrunners.org. •Support: Sex, Love Addicts Anonymous. Carnegie Library, South 22nd and Carson Streets, South Side. 10:30am. Info: 412-441-0956. •Male Dancers: Real Luck Café, P-Town. •Request Night, Club Pittsburgh. 11pm. 412-471-6790. Due to space restrictions, Out’s “What’s Happening” calendar of events is unable to list cocktail/happy hours, beverage and complimentary food specials and most complimentary entertainment/games. Most businesses with the necessary facilities feature disc jockeys/dancing nightly when open. Check the ads in this issue for complete information regarding activities at area businesses.

WHAT’S HAPPENING – DAY BY DAY Sunday, January 1

• STAGE: Defending the Caveman through January 15. CLO Cabaret. • ART: A Retrospective of the Art of Dan Stout through January 27. GLCC. 412422-0114. •DINNER: New Year’s Day Dinner for persons experiencing homelessness. 3:30pm. Morgantown Bus Depot. Morgantown, WV. 304-985-0021.

Monday, January 2

January 10. United Methodist Church. www.pittsburghprimetimers.com. •DEADLINE: February 2012. News to Pittsburgh’s Out. 412-381-3350 or out@outonline.com.

Tuesday, January 24

Friday, January 13

Wednesday, January 25

•DEADLINE: February 2012. Display advertising, calendar information to Pittsburgh’s Out. 412-381-3350 or out@outonline.com.

Saturday, January 14

Tuesday, January 3

• BINGO: Outrageous Bingo, sponsored by Pittsburgh’s Out, benefits GLCC and Shepherd Wellness Community. Doors open at 6:30pm, games begin at 7:30pm. Rodef Shalom, Oakland. 412-422-0114. •PARTY: Black & White Party, with Sasha and India Ferrah from RuPaul’s Drag Race . Vice Versa. www.viceversaclub.com.

Wednesday, January 4

•See weekly events for every Sunday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more.

Thursday, January 5

•See weekly events for every Monday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more.

Friday, January 6

•See weekly events for every Tuesday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more.

Saturday, January 7

• FILM: Movie Night for HIV+ people. 6pm movie. Shepherd Wellness Community, Bloomfield. 412-683-4477.

• MINI GOLF: Fore! The Planet. 18 holes of mini-golf while learning about the environment. Daily. Linvilla Orchards, Media, PA. www.linvilla.com. • MEETING: HIV & Aging Discussion Group for HIV+ people. 5:15 Meal; 6pm discussion. Shepherd Wellness Community, Bloomfield. 412-683-4477. •See weekly events for every Tuesday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more. • THERAPY: Hypnotherapy for HIV+ people. 6pm class. Shepherd Wellness Community, Bloomfield. 412-683-4477. • STAGE: Laugh Out Loud with The Second City comedy troupe through January 7. Pittsburgh Public Theater. 412-316-1600. •See weekly events for every Friday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more. •See weekly events for every Saturday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more.

Sunday, January 15

Monday, January 16

Tuesday, January 17

Wednesday, January 18 Thursday, January 19

Sunday, January 8

• STAGE: As You Like It through February 19. Pittsburgh Public Theater. 412316-1600. •DINNER: Pittsburgh Prime Timers Dine-Out. RSVP by January 17. Sesame Inn. www.pittsburghprimetimers.com.

Monday, January 9

Friday, January 20

•PARTY: Steel City Fetish Night. Starting @ 7pm with Steel City Bondage Club. Club Pittsburgh, Strip District. www.clubpittsburgh.com.

Tuesday, January 10

•PARTY: Lez Liquor Hour. 5:30pm-10pm.Cruze Bar. www.cruzebar.com. •DEADLINE: February 2012. Classified advertising to Pittsburgh’s Out. 412-381-3350 or out@outonline.com.

Wednesday, January 11

• STAGE: The Agony & Ecstasy of Steve Jobs. 8pm. Byham Theater. 412-4566666.

• MEETING: HIV & Aging Discussion Group for HIV+ people. 5:15 Meal; 6pm discussion. Shepherd Wellness Community, Bloomfield. 412-683-4477.

LGBT teens share hope, dreams

•See weekly events for every Tuesday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more.

Members of the Dreams of Hope Youth Performance Troupe will be performing at the August Wilson Center for African American Culture in the free preview show Being In, Being Out on Jan. 22 from 4-6pm. The show highlights the hopes and dreams of LGBT and allied youth through spoken word, movement, drama, percussion and song.

• CLASS: Ceramics Class for HIV+ people. 5:15 Meal; 6pm class. Shepherd Wellness Community, Bloomfield. 412-683-4477. •MEETING: ALPHA Membership Meeting. 7pm. PATF Offices. alphapittsburgh@gmail.com.

Thursday, January 12

•DINNER: Pittsburgh Prime Timers Monthly Social/Potluck Supper. RSVP by

•See weekly events for every Tuesday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more. •See weekly events for every Wednesday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more.

Thursday, January 26

• STAGE: Marvin & the Movies with saxophone legend Dave Koz through January 29. Heinz Hall. 412-392-4900. • STAGE: Spring Awakening through February 4. Byham Theater. 412-4566666.

Friday, January 27

•SHOW: Work. Fierce. Over Aviance! Live performance by Kevin Aviance. No cover/21+. Cruze Bar. www.cruzebar.com.

Saturday, January 28

•DINNER: Pittsburgh Prime Timers Breakfast Social for members and guests. 10:00am. Ritter’s Diner. www.pittsburghprimetimers.com. •SHOW: Leather & Levi’s Fetish, with Raging Stallion Exclusive Jason Michaels, hosted by Chi Chi Ray Colby . Vice Versa. www.viceversaclub.com.

Sunday, January 29

•See weekly events for every Sunday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more.

Monday, January 30

•See weekly events for every Monday of the month located above. Dancers, parties, worship, yoga and more.

Tuesday, January 31

• STAGE: Billy Elliot through February 12. Benedum Center. 412-456-4800.

“Nightlife”

… your guide to the month’s best bar/club events

Saturday, January 21 Sunday, January 22

• STAGE: Being In, Being Out. 4pm-6pm. FREE. August Wilson Center for African American Culture, Liberty Ave. 412-315-9914.

Monday, January 23

only in PITTSBURGH’S

• MEETING: HIV & Aging Discussion Group for HIV+ people. 5:15 Meal; 6pm discussion. Shepherd Wellness Community, Bloomfield. 412-683-4477.

OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 25

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PAGE 26 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

by Mark Segal This past week was a killer. I participated in a historic conference at the Department of Housing and Urban Development headquarters in Washington, D.C., then headed to New York City for the annual Pennsylvania Society weekend at The Waldorf Astoria. But they both had one thing in common that illustrates a weakness in our LGBT community nationwide. Here are the lessons learned from a week of presentations, meetings, schmoozing and being on display. At the HUD conference, most cities, when presenting their dream or in-the-pipeline projects for LGBT senior/elder housing, bemoaned the fact that there just is no money out there due to budgets cuts, banks not giving loans and/or the recession. That was until Philadelphia stepped up to the podium and explained that there is money out there: It’s just that, as a community, we have not learned how to get our fair share. And it is fair share. We pay taxes and deserve to have our community receive some of those taxes back for our community, just as other communities do. It’s called equality. It should come back in the form of help for the less advantaged in our community or building for the future where there is no safe place presently. Many of the LGBT senior-housing projects, in city after city, have not done their homework on funding. They did not know those magic words that other communities know: economic development. Is the LGBT community getting its fair share of economic development? No! So what is it? When a major project is started, in the announcement they state that part of its funding is from a block grant for economic development. Those funds are various government allotments to localities. Is your project an economic development? Here’s what you need to ask yourself. Does it not supply 100-200 construction jobs while being built? Yes. Carpenters, electricians, plumbers and suppliers of all sorts. And if you partner with your local LGBT chamber of commerce, many of those suppliers can be LGBT or LGBT-friendly. That’s millions of dollars in economic development in your locality and your community. You are also creating new full-time jobs when the project is completed. So the next time you see an elected official announcing a new hotel, community center or convention center, look for the words “economic development grant” and see how many millions of your tax dollars are going to that project. Then start to dream. Have a vision for your community. As I’ve noted previously, it takes political clout to get this done. And in Pennsylvania, we have an opportunity to see the officials who make funding decisions all in one place each year: It’s called The Pennsylvania Society. At last weekend’s annual event, I saw no fewer than eight LGBT political players—out of over 800 attendees. Now this is Pennsylvania, but there are equivalent organizations in every state and every city. Get yourself invited or become a member. Once there, you must be seen and heard. Take the time to chat with your governor at every chance, whether or not you agree with him or her on any given subject. The same goes for the mayor and every other step of the political ladder to funding. We are a strong community, and we can achieve our community’s needs, but we can only do so in the manner that other communities have done so in the past. While

each of us there from the LGBT community last weekend had his or her own agenda, we knew we could call on the others for support if need be: Collectively, we are a force. Not only do we know that, the 800 people present knew that.

Mark Segal, publisher of the Philadelphia Gay News, is one of the nation’s most-award-winning commentators in the LGBT media. He can be reached atmark@epgn.com.

www.outonline.com

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OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 7

OPINION

ADULT CLASSIFIED

Prop 8’s slow crawl to the US Supreme Court

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by Abby Dees Sometimes I wish lawsuits in real life were more like they are on TV. They’d wrap up in days rather than years, and they wouldn’t spend most of that time in the mindnumbing quagmire known as legal procedure. Such is the case with California’s Prop 8 trial, Perry v. Brown. A quick refresher: Prop 8 is unique among state samesex marriage bans for a number of reasons, perhaps the biggest being that it was found unconstitutional in federal trial court and is now moving, very slowly, through the appeals process. It’s poised to go all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. No other LGBT marriage law has made it this far. This means that California’s 2008 law could determine the fate of same-sex marriage for the whole country. On Nov. 17, we all awoke to the cacophonous news that the California Supreme Court had issued a decision that will take Prop 8 to the next critical phase. Wait, it wasn’t at the top of your newsfeed? CNN didn’t interrupt programming to tell you? OK, so maybe it was just me trawling the LGBT lawwonk websites and an email from Lambda Legal. Still, I can tell you that this is big news for us all. Perhaps the reason you might have missed it is that for the last year Perry v. Brown has been stalled on a somewhat theoretical question of legal procedure. At issue is not any of the arguments about the fairness of Prop 8’s same-sex marriage ban, but rather who should defend it during appeal. Normally, when someone challenges state law, the

Governor and the Attorney General (AG) automatically step in to defend it. But in Perry, Governor (and defendant) Jerry Brown and AG Kamala Harris have offered what I’ll call the “limp noodle” defense. In other words, they’re totally fine with Prop 8 going down in flames on their watch. I think a thank you note to both of them is in order. ProtectMarriage.com, the people who put Prop 8 on the ballot, desperately want to step in since the state won’t—because if no one’s there to defend the law, the marriage ban automatically ends with Judge Vaughn Walker’s 2010 ruling that Prop 8 is unconstitutional. Same-sex marriage would resume in California. And they got their wish last week. Without going into the weird hot-potato specifics of how it came down, the gist is that ProtectMarriage.com gets to defend Prop 8 in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. Same-sex marriage will remain unlawful in California at least until it all gets worked out, maybe two years or more. If I seem happy about this, there’s a reason. As a married lesbian in California I would have been thrilled to see Prop 8 off the books, and our state once again a model of equality. But then we’d have to start all over again somewhere else to tackle marriage equality nationwide, once and for all. I don’t want to wait. There’s an old lawyer adage about Supreme Court cases: good cases make good law. And Perry is definitely a good case. Defense attorneys Olson and Boies built a thorough and nuanced record of exactly why Prop 8 is morally and legally wrong, while the other side looked ignorant and petty.

My God, someone even turned the trial transcript into a play, it so beautifully illuminated the ideal of justice. That perfectly crafted trial record of Perry v. Brown is what the U.S. Supreme Court would be looking at closely to make their ruling. It’s hard to imagine a better foundation for a U.S. Supreme Court victory. Yes, our High Court has never been so far to the right and there is a chance we will lose—a loss that will reverberate for perhaps generations. But two things are painfully clear: First, the Court will only continue to keep moving right; and second, the traditional strategy of fighting for marriage equality in the states is failing us as voters continue to enshrine bigotry into their state constitutions. I don’t believe there will be a better time than now to make our next bold move toward equality. Abby Dees is a civil rights attorney-turned-author who has been in the LGBT rights trenches for 25+ years. She can be reached through her website: queerquestionsstraighttalk.com.

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OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 27

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JAN 26 - 29 · HEINZ HALL

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Celebrate the music that made movies great!Grammy-nominated saxophonist Dave Koz joins Marvin Hamlisch and your PSO in a concert featuring memorable songs from the silver screen. Hear Marvin’s own Academy Award-winning song, “The Way We Were,” as well as other classics, “Over the Rainbow” from The Wizard of Oz and “Somewhere” from West Side Story. Tap your feet along to music from The Pink Panther, James Bond and more. This concert is pure entertainment! FEATURING MUSIC FROM

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PAGE 28 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

MEDIA SPONSOR

OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 5

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Marvin Hamlisch, conductor Dave Koz, saxophone All-Star College Chorus

NATIONAL NEWS Gay sailor reinstated in Navy Continued from page 3

the military’s gay ban. Petty Officer 2nd Class Jase Daniels—discharged in 2005 and again in 2007—was sworn in Dec. 12 in the Navy to serve on active duty as a linguist. “This is a great day for Petty Officer Daniels,” M. Andrew Woodmansee, the attorney for Daniels. “This also is a great day for the United States military. All qualified American men and women who want serve their country in the armed forces are now welcome to do so without regard to their sexual orientation. “When Jase decided to sue the Navy in 2010 seeking a court order reinstating him on active duty, repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell was uncertain. At the end of the day, a court order was not necessary in his case. I hope this is true for many others and that Jase is just one of many brave gay and lesbian former service members who will be quickly welcomed back into the services.” Daniels, now age 29, entered the military five months before the September 11, 2001, attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon and served his first tour of duty with the Ceremonial Guard in Washington, D.C., where he represented the U.S. at official White House ceremonies and during state and military funerals at Arlington National Cemetery. From his post at Arlington, he watched the Pentagon burn that day, an experience he says reinforced his desire to serve. He completed Hebrew linguist training and was stationed at Fort Gordon, Georgia, where he came to terms with his sexual orientation and outed himself to his commander.

PUBLISHED BY: Out Publishing Co. Inc., 801 Bingham St., Suite 100., Pittsburgh, PA 15203; phone (412) 381-3350; fax (412) 381-7989. E-mail address: out@outonline.com. Web site address: www.outonline.com. Office hours 10am-5pm, Monday through Friday; other hours by appointment. First-class subscription rates: 12 issues, $50; 24 issues, $90; 36 issues, $125. “Bazaar” and “Classified” advertising rates: personal ads, $20 up to 25 words, additional words $.75 each; business ads, $35 up to 25 words, additional words $1.50. See classified form in this issue for more information. Although supported by many fine advertisers, Out cannot accept responsibility for claims made by them. Advertisers who place ads in Out do so with the understanding that Out Publishing Co. Inc. will not accept responsibility for claims made by them in their ads, nor will the publisher be held financially accountable for errors in advertising, regardless of fault, beyond the partial or full cost of the ad itself. Opinions expressed in bylined columns and letters are strictly those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the management, staff or advertisers. The appearance of names and/or pictorial representation in this publication do not necessarily indicate the sexual orientation of individuals, businesses or other entities. Out is a trademark of Out Publishing Co. Inc. Out is a regional gay/lesbian newspaper and is not affiliated or associated in any way with the national gay/lesbian magazine, Out®, which is published by Out Publishing Inc. All contents © 2012, Out Publishing Co. Inc. SUBSCRIBER TO: Wockner News Service. NATIONAL ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: Rivendell Media, (212) 242-6863. DEADLINES: News releases, all items for editorial consideration, 13th of month preceding issue; display advertising, calendar information, 15th of month preceding issue; subscription orders, classified advertising only, 20th of the month preceding issue by 3pm; deadlines may be rescheduled due to holidays. Payment of all accounts receivable, 20th of each month. Out is published on or before the first of each month.

PUBLISHERS: Tony Molnar-Strejcek and Ed Molnar-Strejcek (publisher@outonline.com) EDITOR IN CHIEF: David Doorley (davidd@outonline.com) EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Frank Siaca (frankS@outonline.com) PHOTOGRAPHER: John Colombo PRODUCTION MANAGER/GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Laura Annibalini OFFICE MANAGER: Doe Swank (does@outonline.com) DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES: Tony Molnar-Strejcek, Frank D. DiFolco ONLINE WEBMASTER: Out@outonline.com ONLINE ADVERTISING SALES: Tony Molnar-Strejcek CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS ISSUE: Laura Annibalini, Chris Azzopardi, John Colombo, Samuel Davidson, Abby Dees, David Doorley, Mack Friedman, Laura Kingsbury, Richard Labonte, Charlene Lichtenstein, Jesse Monteagudo, Brody Scott, Mark Segal, Frank Siaca,, Ed Molnar-Strejcek, Tony Molnar-Strejcek, Steve Warren, D’Anne Witkowski

PAGE 4 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

“Keeping the Navy’s core values of honesty and integrity—and very much naïve to the severity of’ Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell—I provided my commander with a written statement, which resulted in the start of discharge proceedings,” said Daniels. He was discharged in 2005. But, in 2006, Daniels received a letter recalling him to service and served in Kuwait for a year with the U.S. Navy Customs Battalion Romeo. Despite the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell law in effect, he served for a year before he was discharged a second time under the law. Daniels is one of three plaintiffs in a case filed in December 2010 that challenges the constitutionality of the discharges under DADT and seeks their reinstatement to active duty. Resolutions for the other plaintiffs are expected soon.

HIV not under control Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that many Americans with HIV do not have their condition under control. Of the nation’s nearly 1.2 million people with the illness, only 28% have a suppressed viral load, according to a CDC study published in the Dec. 2 Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. A suppressed viral load improves patients’ health and dramatically decreases their risk of transmitting the virus through sexual activity. Also, one in five Americans infected with HIV is not aware of it, the CDC said. Only about half of people diagnosed with HIV receive ongoing medical care and treatment. To help remedy the problem, the CDC urges doctors to increase testing for HIV during routine medical visits. The agency recommends that doctors test everyone be-

tween ages 13 and 64. People at high risk of contracting the virus, including injection drug users and men who have sex with other men, should be tested at least once a year, the CDC says.

WV to protect LGBT students On Dec. 14, the West Virginia Board of Education passed an anti-bullying policy that adds “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” to the list of characteristics that the state will track for incidents of harassment, intimidation or bullying. This is the first time the state has adopted a policy to protect LGBT students from bullying due to their actual or perceived sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Fairness West Virginia, a state LGBT civil rights organization, worked with the Education Board to enact the change. The Education Board’s bullying policy now reads: “Acts of harassment, intimidation, or bullying that are reasonably perceived as being motivated by any actual or perceived differentiating characteristic, or by association with a person who has or is perceived to have one or more of these characteristics, shall be reported using the following list: race; color; religion; ancestry; national origin; gender; socioeconomic status; academic status; gender identity or expression; physical appearance; sexual orientation; mental/physical/developmental/ sensory disability; or other characteristic.” PITTSBURGH’S

Local gay boy makes good… smut. An interview with Natty Soltesz by Mack Friedman Natty Soltesz’s first book, Backwoods (QueerMojo Press) is a pulsing collection of short stories about homosex in a small Pennsylvania town. An erotic riff on Sherwood Anderson’s Winesburg, Ohio, Natty’s stories take us through the adventures of married men, a gay couple, hippie guys, vandals and boys who’re just looking for the next ticket out. The writing is truly authentic, soulfully documenting the deliciousness, the awkwardness and the dangers that small-town guys feel when they connect with each other. Mack Friedman wanted to learn more, so he sat Natty down and forced him to talk and wouldn’t take no for an answer. Out: Your book makes me think about a certain type of man, a very masculine, dominant, powerful guy. I’m not always into guys like that but reading about them really turned me. Can you talk a bit about that sort of straight-acting mountain man who has gay sex in a way that’s maybe specific to rural America? Natty Soltesz: I think in rural America, you really have to appear straight if you want to get by. These are closeknit communities, everybody knows everybody, and if you stand out it is not good for you. So in my book there are all these guys who are presenting as straight, who are acting all butch and swaggering around, but then behind closed doors they’re getting their ass fucked. That is such a turn on for me! Like the guy who needs to get his cock sucked because his wife won’t put out. This British writer Mark Simpson said something like the biggest turn on, for him, is when he’s fucking a guy who says to him, “Don’t tell my wife.” It’s all so ridiculous, and in a way it’s unfortunate, but there it is. Some of the characters in the book have gay sex and are okay with it, and some of them are tormented, but even the ones who are comfortable with their sexuality present as straight. I don’t know. Masculinity is just one of those tried-and-true turn-ons. This book is centered on a couple who everyone knows is gay. But you use that set-up, that open secret, to pry open and explore expressions of gay sexuality that are occurring under the radar. Can you talk more about that? I got the idea for the book when I was trick-or-treating with some friends in a small West Virginia town. We stopped at a gay couple’s house, and I started to wonder what their lives were like. Who hated them? Who showed up at their door at 3am? In the book, the gay couple’s house is like this beacon, this landmark. And the fact that there’s a gay couple in the town makes the gay sex that anybody else has seem “less gay”—the open secret makes the closed secrets safer. They can say, “Well, I might be getting fucked in the ass right now, but at least I’m not a faggot like those guys down the street.” Natty, Backwoods is such a unique combination of characterization, situation and hot dirty sex. It was steamy but also really emotiona—I wound up really caring about your characters, which is not what I

expect from most erotica. How do you do it? Oh, how nice of you to say that! Well, as you know I started out writing straight-up dirty sex stories, purely to turn myself on. I still do that, posting stories for free on Nifty.org and on my website (www.bacteriaburger.com). Even from the start I felt like the more realistic the setting and characters are the hotter the story will be, because it’s more identifiable, the readers can put themselves there.

Backwoods is such a unique combination of characterization, situation and hot dirty sex. I feel like this book is just an extension of that, though skewed a little more toward characterization and setting. I hate porn that is just sex—I want a situation I can sink my teeth into. Give me a sailor on leave, a dude whose girlfriend is out of town—anything! So, your book has illustrations. There’s an incredibly sexy quality to them that is a mix between grotesque, surreal, and just plain nasty (in the hottest way you can imagine), like Tom of Finland meets Salvador Dali. Talk about the illustrator and what his work adds to the book. The illustrator is Michael Kirwan and he’s a real pro; he’s been doing illustrations for gay magazines since the early ’80s. I love his work because it’s totally hot but at the same time has this weird, exaggerated quality. Interesting that you use the word “grotesque” because I modeled Backwoods after Winesburg Ohio, which is this classic American novel about a small town, and the author uses the word “grotesque” too, I think, to describe the humanity of these small-town people, their individuality. So there’s this grotesque, very real aspect to the bodies that Michael draws and at the same time they’re in these situations that are pure fantasy, pure sex. Which was sort of what I was trying to do with the narrative, too—have the fantasy amplified by the reality, and vice versa.

You grew up in a small town in Pennsylvania like the one in the book. What was that experience like for you and how does it inform your narrative? For example, there’s a poignant moment in one of your stories about a kid who has come of age in this town and is ready to go and move on to bigger and better things. You got out and moved on. What’s it like for you when you go back? Oh, I guess it was hard growing up gay in a small town, though I wasn’t out until I left, so I sort of repressed it all. Repression is a big one. I grew up pretty sexually repressed, and I don’t put all the blame on my small-town upbringing but it was certainly a factor. I think I started writing porn to sort of declare my sexuality, to stake a claim. The fact of the matter is that I miss my old home town. I love going back because it’s the place I know the best. I feel completely comfortable walking around anywhere because it’s my town. I know the streets like the back of my hand. I’d honestly move back there if it made economic sense. I’d probably go fucking crazy within the first year.

THE SEX GURU

Private acts in public places: turn-on or illegal? by Emerson Evans and Alan Jones Dear Sex Guru, I really love my new boyfriend Eddie. The only problem is that he always wants me to go down on him or eat him in the parking lot, especially supermarkets, shopping plazas or the mall. I have to admit that I get somewhat aroused while doing this, but I am afraid of either getting arrested or humiliated in public. But it’s tough to say no when pinned in the corner of the front velour seat between his bare ass and the windshield. Last time we were doing this, a woman pushing her shopping cart with her three kids stared at me through the smeared windshield of our Toyota Camry. I know that sexual fulfillment is important to a healthy sexual relationship but it’s beginning to drive me crazy. Last week Eddie made me perform fellatio at my cousin’s wedding reception, and that was the last straw. —Baffled Dear Baffled, Before you get arrested, you need to think of some

things. What is it that you like about this type of sex? The exhibitionism? The thrill of getting caught? The smooth and silky velour of the car seat pressed against your naked and sweaty bodies? There are many much more legal alternatives that will fulfill this need. Clothing optional gay campgrounds are a great place for safe exhibitionism. A touch of S&M play could give you the needed thrill you look for. Sex in the closed garage on the velour seats would satisfy your need for the Toyota Camry fetish. Most likely, the two of you have eroticized all of these three aspects at once. So the Sex Guru would recommend that you tie up and gag Eddie naked in the front seat of your car while parked in the middle of the clothing optional camp ground and rim him as he writhes on the car seat in wild ecstasy surrounded by onlookers. This way you get your exhibitionism, thrill and car fetish taken care of all at once in a wild yet legal way! Continued on page 30

OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 29

CMYK

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PITTSBURGH’S

X-PHILES

X-PHILES

NATIONAL NEWS

2011—another year of bump and grind

US makes case for world LGBT rights

by Samuel Davidson Has it really been a year since we rated our most memorable X-performers and performances in these pages?

DVDs

This year some things stayed the same: TitanMen releases more “combo packs” of some of their movies (a regular DVD and a Blu-ray of the same film); Michael Lucas continues to film drop-dead gorgeous men in drop-dead gorgeous settings; and up-and-cummers replace older studs—who still have a few tricks up their… sleeves. Some things changed: Bel Ami joined Falcon Studios in not making their films available to Out for review; and bareback action seems on the rise. [Editor’s note: Out’s policy is to not review porn that doesn’t promote safer sex.] And Collier Scott is gone; so who will step into those size-10… shoes. Stay tuned. In the meantime, that leaves little ole me doing the job of two X-men. I’m up to the task. Speaking of getting it up, here are the hunks who gave us an assist in 2011.

Best Leading Actor

Best Duo Bearded Jonathan Agassi and tattooed Ivan Rueanda sizzle in a flip-flop encounter, which ends in an equally hot fist fight in the well plotted Missing (Lucas Entertainment). Muscular David Anthony (our best leading actor of ’10) goes for a ride on the cock-ringed pole of equally muscled Dean Flynn after a chance beach encounter in Hellions (TitanMen). Jesse Ares can’t resist lending a helping hand when Spencer Reed stops to take a leak beside his pick-up truck in Titan’s Hellions. A flip-flop scene in Hot House’s Loading Zone has bearded Kyle King giving up his bubble butt to rugged Drew Cutler before Cutler returns the favor. Once again stuck in detention, cocky student Dylan Roberts overcomes his boredom by topping handsome

teacher Brenden Cage in Jet Set’s Straight Edge 8. Another from Lucas Entertainment, Auditions 36: Pounded pairs swarthy and tattooed Alessio Romero and the bearded dirty blond Logan Stevens, and when their sculptured bodies intertwine, it ends in an incredible flip-flop. In a dungeon in Raising the Bar (All Worlds/Channel 1 Releasing) Adam Killian makes an easy entry into Landon Mycles, who stays hard during the plowing, but surprises us when he becomes an aggressive Adonis certainly lives up to his name. bottom after their flip flop. Winner of Best Duo: Anthony/Flynn.

Best Threeway Reality TV star Steven Daigle gets bent over the toilet in a nightclub bathroom as Jimmy Long and wellbuilt Jeremy Bilong take turns topping him in XXXposed (Rascal Productions/Channel 1 Releasing). Dissatisfied bartender Rod Daily and fired bodyguard Matthew Rush exact their revenge on the mouthy Continued on page 31

THE SEX GURU

Private acts in public places: turn-on or illegal? Continued from page 29

Dear Sex Guru, I just turned 50 and I feel like my life is over. No one on Craigslist or on Manhunt will return my messages or they say that I’m too old. Am I just going to drift into oblivion? —Blue Birthday Dear Blue, First of all, if you think the meaning of life has something to do with sex, then you’re way off. And this is the Sex Guru talking! Secondly, who have you been messaging on line!? If you are messaging guys that are half your age in solicitation of sex, then don’t be shocked when you don’t get a hardy response. That being said, there are many great relationships that span various ages, but is that what you are looking for? If you are looking for a meaningful sexual relationship, there are plenty of very attractive men closer to your age that are not only piggy in bed, but have the maturity and knowledge to bring a lot of great things to the relationship beyond sex. If online dating is making you feel like a statistic de-

PAGE 30 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

void of real content, try meeting people at social and community events where you can enjoy the company of a whole person rather than just their sexy online portfolio accompanied by their AOL girth size. One such venue to meet other mature guys is the social group called the Pittsburgh Prime Timers where local men get together at different community events. Dear Sex Guru, I am a woman who has always identified as lesbian since I was attracted to other girls at a young age. Over the past month though, I have really grown fond of my male friend who is the greatest guy, and I found myself thinking about how he might be a really hot time to play with sexually. I’m not sure what’s going on, and does this mean I am bi-curious or bisexual or straight? —Confused Dear Confused, You aren’t confused. It is society that is confused. The reality of sexuality is that each person has their own unique turn on and turn offs when it comes to sex. You may be 97% attracted to women, but there is something about this one guy that turns you on. Great! Figure out what you want to do with that and

be honest with yourself and who you are with to find out what works for each other. Maybe it is just curiosity? Who knows until you find out? The truth is that most people are bisexual to some degree. There are also many people who are completely attracted to the same sex or the opposite sex. There are yet others who are fairly asexual, still others who find only themselves sexually desirable, others find different manmade objects really erotic, and the list goes on. Regardless of all these individual nuances of sexual attraction, labels ultimately don’t matter. Each person is a unique being with unique taste. Society has created the labels and boxes to be ticked in your dating application form for simplification of something that is infinitely diverse in reality. So just because you stray from the box doesn’t mean that you can’t return to the box if it works for you. The Sex Guru is a collaborative effort of HIV educators whose purpose for this column is to give practical, unbiased answers to sexual health questions in the spirit of sexual freedom and responsibility. Questions can be submitted at out@outonline.com

Continued from page 1

minority. They are arrested, beaten, terrorized, even executed. Many are treated with contempt and violence by their fellow citizens while authorities empowered to protect them look the other way or, too often, even join in the abuse.... I am talking about gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people, human beings born free and given bestowed equality and dignity, who have a right to claim that, which is now one of the remaining human rights challenges of our time.” “Being LGBT does not make you less human,” Clinton said to the audience, which included delegates from countries that criminalize homosexuality.“And that is why

gay rights are human rights, and human rights are gay rights.” More than 80 countries currently have anti-LGBT criminal laws. The goals on global LGBT rights as outlined by the presidential memo seek to: • Combat the criminalization of LGBT status or conduct abroad. • Protect vulnerable LGBT refugees and asylum seekers. • Leverage foreign assistance to protect human rights and advance nondiscrimination.

• Ensure swift and meaningful U.S. responses to human rights abuses of LGBT persons abroad. • Engage international organizations in the fight against LGBT discrimination. “I am deeply concerned by the violence and discrimination targeting LGBT persons around the world, whether it is passing laws that criminalize LGBT status, beating citizens simply for joining peaceful LGBT pride celebrations, or killing men, women and children for their perceived sexual orientation,” Obama said in the memorandum. Referring to a September address he gave to the UN general assembly in New York, the president said, “That is why I declared before heads of state gathered at the United Nations, ‘no country should deny people their rights because of who they love, which is why we must stand up for the rights of gays and lesbians everywhere.’” In a statement, Human Rights Campaign president Joe Solmonese said, “Along with today’s memorandum by President Obama, it is clear that this administration will not turn its head when governments commit or allow abuses of the human rights of LGBT people. Additionally, Secretary Clinton’s message directly to LGBT people around the world that they have an ally in the United States sends a powerful message.”

Top slutty US cities Guess where Pgh lands! by Brodie Scott You won’t believe which American cities have the most singles online looking for casual sex! If you’re single, horny and thinking about moving (or just a fun visit), you might want to consider Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania—or try Seattle, Washington or Portland, Oregon. According to a popular free online dating site open to straight, gay and bi users, those are the top cities in the U.S. where people are seeking casual sex. Surprisingly absent in the top ten are sin cities Las Vegas, New York City and Los Angeles. TheStir.com reports the site awarded the cities by the percentage of users who list “Casual Sex” as one of the relationship types they seek (and then correlated that back to where said naughty user is from). And Portland came out on top (pardon the pun). See the complete top ten below and consider a frisky visit perhaps? Apparently the singles in these cities are eager to oblige! Isn’t that right, Pittsburgh? 10. Houston, Texas 9. San Diego, California 8. Denver, Colorado 7. San Bernardino, California 6. Dallas, Texas 5. San Francisco, California 4. Miami, Florida 3. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 2. Seattle, Washington 1. Portland, Oregon

Gay sailor reinstated to active duty in Navy A gay sailor who holds the distinction of being discharged twice under Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell was readmitted to the armed forces—and may be the first gay person to re-enlist as an active duty service member since repeal of Continued on page 4

OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 3

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Dark-haired, dark eyed Jim Crew—and his dark fingernail polish—is the only interesting thing about the threeway in High Drive Productions’ Torrid Twinks. The title for Pacific Sun Entertainment’s Just Fuck really says it all, but it offers up Sebastian Cortes—with his soulful eyes, arm tats and irresistible facial stubble—and displays him in tighty-whities, a winning combination. Hot Boi earns his nickname as he pounds Max Sanchez in West Coast Playaz (Pitbull Productions). Big black stud Jason Diaz gets playful with some big squirt toys—yeah, his big squirter too—after he sees what Logan Scott has packed in his speedos in TitanMen’s

Thrill Ride. The aptly named Jason Adonis is a muscled god, and when he plays an instructor in Police Academy (Jet Set Men) we want to earn our stripes under him. Handsome Josh Logan plays “Big Dick,” the owner of a garage in Big Dick Mechanics from Jet Set Men, but it’s not until the finale that we get to see mechanic Paul Wagner worship that big dick before opening his tool box for Logan’s hammer. Spencer Reed, an amazing adult film star at 6’3” with a tool of 9” and sexy tatts, gives Rod Daily the ride of his life in Sanctuary II (Hot House). Wearing a leather vest, ass-less chaps and boots, blond Ben Harris (of the strong chin and massive chest) is a master with a paddle in his three scenes for Pacific Sun Entertainment—no wonder he has us saying Yes, Sir. And the winner of Best Leading Actor is: Jason Adonis.

X-PHILES

Ring in the New Year at Pittsburgh’s Hottest New Club! :; (55<(3 5,> @,(9: ,=, 7(9;@ Z[

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Continued from page 30

bar owner Brandon Lee, and somehow no one seems upset in Affirmative Blacktion (Channel 1 Releasing/All Worlds). “My dick stopped working,� Christian Wilde confides to Dr. John Magnum in Trust Me I’m a Doctor (Hot House), but after the good doc checks out his patient’s balls—leading to an instant cure—he prescribes follow-up care to be administered orally by hunky tattooed Nurse Rod Daily. In Swelter (TitanMen) Gio Forte hungers for David Anthony’s kielbassa, as well as Bryan Slater’s big package of lunchmeat, and eventually becomes the center of a threeway manwich. No contest: Is there a Doctor in the Hot House?

Best Group

In Jet Set Men’s Police Academy Dylan Roberts tricks his fellow cadets into stripping off their uniforms and stroking each other’s rods, which leads to a gangbang. ChiChi LaRue’s nonstop orgy in Channel 1 Releasing’s Frat Boy Fuck Down features a stable of hot studs, including uber-hung Mario Costa, Matthew Rush, Justin Cox and handsome Ryan Raz. Winner of Best Group: ChiChi’s gang.

Best Director

Brian Mills directed several stunning films for Titan Media last year—like Hellions, Thrill Ride and Consent—often with many of the same hunky performers. Steven Scarborough is known for the hot action be-

tween muscular men, and Hot House’s Reckless 1 and 2 deliver, in a darkened warehouse that gets very busy after hours. If we know one thing about Ms. ChiChi LaRue, she likes serving hefty portions of manmeat to her fans, and currently she’s doing the catering for All Worlds/Channel 1 Releasing. Michael Lucas of Lucas Entertainment has a very successful formula: take gorgeous men, place them in stunning international settings and film away, as he does in the well-plotted Missing about a kidnapping set in Barcelona, which leads—of course—to hot man-on-man action. Winner of Best Director: Make it a fourway ’cause these guys know what we like and consistently deliver.

Best Film

Piss Pigs (Lucas Entertainment) features hot— and wet—cast members Antonio Biaggi, Rod Daily and Lucas himself, there’s enough liquid to satisfy even the raunchiest watersports enthusiasts.

CMYK

CMYK

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1600 Smallman Street • Strip District 412.471.1400 • cruzebar.com Open Tuesday-Sunday 4PM-2AM • 21+

Titan Media focuses on younger dudes in their “Fresh� series and slightly older and more muscular guys in TitanMen, setting the benchmark for how great porn looks technically. Perfect example: Swelter, which heats up the screen in High Def as taut, toned and hard studs workout their sizeable —and sizzling—sausages. The next time a young, hunky stranger beckons you into a manhole, use The Trap from Raging Stallion Studios as a cautionary tale: how to behave with burly dudes in bird masks or chains and dog masks and how to manipulate vacuum pumps, double-headed dildos and a mechanical contraption that vigorously thrusts a dildo into your chute. Ouch! And the Best Film of 2011 is: The Trap from Raging Stallion.

www.outonline.com PAGE 2 • OUT • JANUARY 2012

OUT • JANUARY 2012 • PAGE 31

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January 2012 Issue No. 418

They Cruze together, but they’re just friends —page21

FREE

Never follow strangers down a manhole—page 30

CMYK

Good girl gone bad—real bad—page 15

Organization offers welcoming community to LGBT families by Laura Kingsbury With a quick glance at the political climate, recent changes in marriage legislation and viral YouTube videos, it is clear that Americans everywhere are asking, “What makes a family?� But here in Pittsburgh, members of a

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Top slutty cities—guess where we are—page 3

growing group of LGBT parents, Families Like Ours, have been supporting each other in building and maintaining healthy families for 20 years. One of the group’s leaders, Cheryl Dennis, said FLO branched off from the former Lesbians Are Parents organization to be a

strong social support network for LGBT parents and their kids, inclusive of men and women. Dennis, who with her partner, Holly, has three children, said the group started with about four families in the early ’90s Continued on page 8

World AIDS observed

US makes case for world LGBT rights

by John Colombo Another World AIDS Day was commemorated in Pittsburgh on Dec. 1. Opening with a press conference at the City County Building, Mayor Ravenstahl spoke, as did Sara Oliver-Carter, vice president of diversity and inclusion at Highmark. Later in the day a flash mob appeared in Market Square to remind people about AIDS, and then the annual candle light vigil began at CMU and moved toward Heinz Chapel for a memorial service.

On Dec. 6 Secretary of State Hillary Clinton delivered a landmark speech at the United Nations in Geneva on civil rights for LGBT people around the world. Clinton called on world leaders to reject anti-LGBT policies and announced new U.S. initiatives to support organizations working to protect gay people who are marginalized and targeted with violence. A presidential memorandum issued by the White House while Clinton spoke directed federal agencies involved in work abroad to “ensure that U.S. diplomacy and

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foreign assistance promote and protect the human rights of LGBT persons.� Both developments follow previous State Department and White House pronouncements supporting the global fight against anti-LGBT persecution. “Today, I want to talk about the work we have left to do to protect one group of people whose human rights are still denied in too many parts of the world today,� Clinton said in her address. “In many ways, they are an invisible Continued on page 3errorized, exContinued oneven page 3

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