JULY 2013
WE JUST HAVE FEELINGS STEAL MEA--LOT i’MOFFREE! QUORUM COLUMBUS LGBTQA MAGAZINE
/columbuspride
bake me gluten-free bakery
quorum crew Isaac Bendele President Publisher
Mickey J. Hart Editor
Bowen Marshall Feature Writer
Evan T. Robinson Columnist
Sara Ernest Columnist
Patrick Butler Graphic Designer Illustrator
Briden Schueren Graphic Designer Lead Photographer
JM Rayburn Graphic Designer Social Media Manager
Jerry Turnes Web & Digital Media Developer
Amy Tannenbaum Photographer Columnist
Craig Chadwell The Taste Buds Columnist
Mike Moffo The Taste Buds Columnist
Shaun Whybark Columnist
Que Jones Columnist
Kris Littler Contributor
Erik Hays CFO
Josh McConaughy Scene Contributor
Also on the crew: Jackie Vanderworth, Columnist Seth Rogers, Account Executive Justus Heil, Account Executive Ray LaVoie, Photography Andrew Johnson, Assistant Editor
Michael Greenhouse Columnist
Michael Lovett Scene Contributor
This month’s contributors: Alex Copeland, Copy Jim Ryan, Adjourn Myles Stickle, First Person Abbi Sims, Photography
JULY ‘13
6 FIRST PERSON Gay Men’s Chorus
Artist of the month | Briden Cole Schueren | Thatguysart.com
CONTENTS
12 PINK The Power of Pink
30 COUPLE The C-Bus of Love 36 CULTURE Balancing in Academia
16 JULY BARTENDER Rolando Rodriguez, Union Cafe
37 FITNESS Getting to the Core
17 THE TATSTE BUDS Get Fresh at El Camino Inn
38 MOSAIC We Stand Together
20 SARA SHARES Lessons from Franklin
40 TRANSlation Advice from Jackie
21 SEXPERT The Pursuit of Happy Sex
For more information go to : www.QuorumColumbus.com
45 ADJOURN Freedom Isn’t Free
About our July artist: Long before working on this publication, Briden was making art and a name for himself in the Columbus art scene. With eight years of experience in the arts, Briden is skilled in photography, graphic design, fine arts, curating, and event planning. “I strive for intensity of color … always pushing ideas to the ends of the spectrum while paying close attention to subtleties and details.” Briden describes himself as a motivated, hardworking, passionate, and trustworthy leader and artist.
CONVENE
BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE LETTER “P” | MICKEY J. HART
In considering recent occurrences, the words pink, pride, and progress stood out for us at Quorum Columbus. Passion, praise, and promise are also very fitting words. PINK: The recent anti-gay attacks and the rapid response sparked a symbolic and bold awareness campaign. As part of the “We Wear Pink” effort an unprecedented fundraiser was held for the Buckeye Region Anti-Violence Organization (BRAVO). We cover the incidents and the impact. PRIDE: Official events, club sponsored events, churches displaying rainbow flags, Three Nationwide Plaza beaming with rainbow lights, and record-breaking attendance all collectively demonstrate that Columbus knows how to host and support Pride. We offer our 2013 Pride Photo Yearbook. PROGRESS: Our nation has seen some strides in marriage equality, but what about Ohio? When will our time for legal marriage come? What will it look like? How should we achieve it? We asked Equality Ohio and FreedomOhio to share their visions. As we mark Independence Day, a few writers were asked to consider the right to, “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.” We strive to bring more voices to the table, so I invited two friends to contribute this month. Myles Stickle opens the issue with “First Person.” Jim Ryan closes our issue with a new monthly feature called “Adjourn.” This “last word” column will feature the thoughts of our community’s trailblazers, news makers, and luminaries. Mickey J. Hart Editor mickey@quorumcolumbus.com
Quorum Columbus Magazine is published monthly by Qmunity, LLC. Quorum Columbus Magazine issues are FREE at distribution locations throughout the greater Columbus area. COPYRIGHT© 2013 Quorum Columbus Magazine. Reproduction without expressed written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. All rights in letters, manuscripts, photographs, drawings, illustrations, and artwork sent to Quorum Columbus Magazine will be treated as assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to Quorum Columbus Magazine and Qmunity, LLC terms and conditions. All models are at least18 years of age. All photographs included are posed for by professional models or willing participants in Quorum Columbus Magazine except as otherwise noted. Neither said photographs nor accompanying editorial is indicative of sexual orientation. The publisher of the magazine does not assume responsibility for statements by advertisers. ALL CONTENT AND RELATED MEDIA ARE COPYRIGHTED © 2013 BY QUORUM COLUMBUS MAGAZINE. All rights reserved.
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FIRST PERSON: HO-MOTOWN Columbus Gay Men’s Chorus Presents: Motown in Our Town | MYLES STICKLE I’M A PROUD MEMBER of the Columbus Gay Men’s Chorus (CGMC). Our journey to the stage for “Motown in Our Town” started more than a year ago as a vision between our artistic director, Dr. Timothy Sarsany, and our music advisory committee. Songs were chosen, rights were secured, and music was scored specifically for our voices. With so many great Motown artists and songs, narrowing the list must have been a daunting task. On a cool Sunday evening in early April, we began learning the vocal parts and choreography at our rehearsal space in the basement of The Ohio Theater. If you have been part of a production, you know that Glee gives viewers a false notion of the time and the work it takes. Spontaneous, well-crafted performances only occur in the world of TV and movies. The reality is that CGMC spends hours each week in structured group rehearsals and in additional time outside of rehearsal. I find myself practicing on the way to and from work, while walking my dog, and even singing in the shower. My two left feet require me to attend extra rehearsals so that when the curtain rises, I can sing and dance at the same time...a skill that does not come so naturally for this gay man.
While fine tuning our magic for opening night, we had three previews: the Macy’s HRC Pride Event, the Summer State House Concert Series, and the Pride Festival and Parade. The Sunday before our show, we moved into the Lincoln Theater. There, the artistic director created our own special version of Motown by masterfully bringing together performers, musicians, and production crew. The curtain opened after four very long, hot, and exhausting rehearsal days. The audiences were amazing! Their reaction made it all worthwhile, and quickly erased the memory of the hard work, sore legs, and dedicated hours. Motown has been remade by artists from many musical genres including country, rap, rock, folk, pop, emo, and speed metal. And now it has been remade by the CGMC! I find it fitting that this particular group of men sang these songs of universal appeal in the historic Lincoln Theater. Not only did this production bring Motown to our town, but it brought Motown to my neighborhood. After three well attended stellar performances it is time for a break – although it will be a very short break. In July, the chorus will be preparing for “JOY 2013,”our holiday season concert. I hear rumors of a CGMC Christmas Album...Stay tuned.
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Photos|Abbi Sims
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SCENE
A HISTORIC NIGHT FOR THE HRC | MICHAEL LOVETT LAST MONTH, COLUMBUS hosted one of the most successful Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Galas in years. This was not like past galas, as this gala was about the past: this was the 30th Anniversary Columbus HRC Gala! Organizers Dee Reller and Rick Straits poured blood, sweat, and tears into every detail of this event. Their efforts paid off! If you were not in attendance, you missed an amazing night. I hate to admit that this was my first HRC gala, but it definitely will not be my last. Guests were greeted by a host of volunteers and drag queens dressed “to the nines” in the Ohio Union’s Archie Griffin Ballroom at OSU. This event was well attended by LGBTQ community and by many of our community’s allies, politicians, and civic leaders. As part of the anniversary, past HRC leaders were on hand to inspire the next generation of HRC leaders. After taking in the crowd and venue, I couldn’t help but notice the overwhelming support that HRC received from donors toward the successful silent auction. Attendees were able to bid on items ranging from local restaurant gift cards to round trip Europe airline tickets. It was heartwarming to see the number of corporate sponsors listed in the program booklet. Knowing that many of our local corporations support the values of HRC validates my love for this city. Activist Constance McMillen, who was denied the right to take her girlfriend to the Itawamba County Agricultural High School prom in 2010, was a featured speaker. She educated, entertained, and captivated guests with her story of discrimination and triumph. Not only did she make change in her hometown, but she’s now fighting for the rights of the LGBT community around the country.
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Several other speakers, including HRC President Chad Griffin, engaged the crowd with the extraordinary accomplishments HRC has made since 1980. They also reminded us that there is still much work to do before our community can consider ourselves equal. Now what’s a gala without entertainment? After the closing remarks, the lights were flashing and the music was pumping to the electrifying singing of Thelma Houston. Everyone was quickly up to dance the night away. Since this was my first time attending, I spoke to several regular attendees and heard nothing but praise. Even though it sounds like I started with “the best one,” I plan to attend more of them in the future. If you missed the Columbus Gala, you still have the chance to head to Cleveland as they host their 20th Annual HRC Gala in August.
ON FRIDAY, JUNE 14th,
WE WORE PINK Columbus’ LGBTQA Community Responds to Attacks | BOWEN MARSHALL THREE GAY MEN were violently attacked, all within one week in June, and all in pockets of our town considered particularly safe and gay-friendly in a city known for its queer community inclusivity. Christopher Kratavil was walking home in the Short North when he was assaulted by two men who beat him badly and fractured his skull. David Conely was followed by a group of people that same night in Olde Towne East. They beat him with a club while shouting gay slurs. Chris Ashcraft was outside a gay bar in Merion Village earlier in the week helping some men with car trouble when they jumped him, beat and kicked him in the face, and left him unconscious. As a response our community rallied and organized, “ON FRIDAYS, WE WEAR PINK” on Friday, June 14 to heighten awareness, raise money to support survivors of violence, and stand together in solidarity to let others know that the LGBTQ community will not be bullied and bashed in our home, Columbus. Why pink? According to Sam Schisler, Chief Marketing and Promotions Officer at Union Cafe, Kratavil was wearing a favorite pink button-down shirt during his shift at Union on the night of his attack. Upon hearing about the horrific assault, Kratavil’s co-workers, who include Nina West, decided they needed to take action both to make a statement to those who would try to harm members of the Columbus Queer community and to support the three victims. They determined that Kratatvil’s pink shirt would become that statement.
Word of the awareness day and event quickly spread. By the close of the #REALEQUALITYWEARSPINK Facebook event page, over 6,700 people on had pledged to wear pink. Facebook profiles pictures and backgrounds blazed with various shades of pink. The organizers determined that all proceeds would benefit the Buckeye Region Anti-Violence Organization (BRAVO). BRAVO is a statewide organization that assists all survivors — with a special focus on those who are queer — heal from attacks as well as learn how to confront their attackers. Businesses expressed their support in a variety of ways. A number of Columbus-area businesses held promotions donating 10% of proceeds to the cause, including Grass Skirt and Surly Girl (owned by Elizabeth Lessner). Sugar Daddy’s and Skreened donated shirts to be sold to benefit BRAVO as well. The “ON FRIDAYS, WE WEAR PINK” day culminated with a huge benefit called the Pink Party at Axis Nightclub. In addition to a donation from Axis, all ticket sales for the event, tips, and FCKH8 t-shirts sold, went to support BRAVO. Chris Cozad, vice-president of the BRAVO board of trustees, shared that the Pink Party and events brought in over $11,500 in less than a week -- with donations still coming in. “BRAVO cannot begin to express our gratitude and love for this community!” Cozad exclaimed. Beyond the money and awareness raised, Cozad offered, “Special thanks to the Columbus Division of Police, Chief Kim Jacobs, Sgt. Nick Konves, Mayor Mike Coleman, TJ Brown (our Franklin County Recorder),
Columbus Public Health and the other officials; too numerous to list, who have voiced their support. Thank you for having our backs!” While no one wants to see attacks like this ever happen again, there is always a possibility. Cozad reminds us that violence toward the queer community is more common than many realize and that far too many incidents go unreported out of shame or fear. Scot Hafler, owner of Wall Street Nightclub, has partnered with BRAVO to host a “Street Safety” training session for all Columbus LGBTQ establishment owners, managers, and employees. The training is schedule for Monday, July 15, at Wall Street Nightclub. The bravery of the three gay men reporting these attacks took a great deal of valor and courage. Cozad encouraged others to honor the men, “Pay it Forward! Let’s carry this momentum forward into PRIDE Week – wear PINK!” Let’s not stop there, remember to wear Pink throughout the year and never forget that we, as the LGBTQA community in Columbus, can stop violence by coming together in solidarity and actively working to strike down the vicious head of violence whenever it attempts to harm members of our community.
Kratavil was wearing a favorite pink button-down shirt…on the night of his attack. Donations to BRAVO via: www.BRAVO-Ohio.org
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For tips on how to stay safe visit or call: www.bravo-ohio.org 886-86-BRAVO or 614-294-7867
The POWER of PINK | JOSH MCCONAUGHY I WAS FORTUNATE to be front and center at the Pink Party. The incomparable Nina West was our hostess and one of the lead organizers of the event held on June 14 at Axis Nightclub. Special guest star Latrice Royale from RuPaul’s Drag Race (Season 4) dropped everything and flew in from Hollywood, FL to donate her time for the cause. Sharing that she considers Columbus a second home, Latrice stated, “I had to be here!” Axis was packed to the brim and performers from all over the city joined forces to put on an amazing and inspirational show.
The event united the LGBTQ community and clearly demonstrated that something good can come from something so bad. Christopher Kratavil, one of the men attacked, bravely gave an uplifting speech at the end of the show stating, “I am very blessed to have a lot of wonderful friends!” Of course, pink was the signature color for the event. And just as Shelby knew that “blush” and “bashful” were two very distinct shades of pink, I saw dozens of hues from the pink spectrum worn that night. And the crowd was just as diverse as their respective shirt colors. It was inspiring to see our entire LGBTQA community come together to create such a special event for such a good cause.
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EVERYONE IS THERE [SHOWTUNES] TO HAVE A BLAST AND SING ALONG. NO ONE IS WORRIED ABOUT WHAT OTHER PEOPLE ARE THINKING ANYONE WHO HAS stopped by the Union Café should be no stranger to the Puerto Rican-born bartender, Rolando Rodriguez. A bartender for nearly six years, Rolando has seen it all when it comes to one of Columbus’ favorite watering holes. “It’s an inclusive bar,” he shares. “We have people from all backgrounds coming in to have a good time. It’s an easy place to have fun.” He warns, though, that it is important to pace yourself! “Don’t have too much fun…those drinks are strong!” On most any evening, Union Café offers performances, karaoke, trivia, and special events. (Long Island Thursday, anyone?) For Rolando, Sunday Showtunes is, by far, his favorite night of the week. “Everyone is there to have a blast and sing along. No one is worried about what other people are thinking.”
WHO:
Rolando Rodriguez
WHERE:
Union Café 782 N High Street Columbus, 43215 614.421.2233
COCKTAIL:
Wild Turkey American Honey: Straight up, chilled. Because some guys like hair on their chest.
FUN FACT:
Rolando competed and won a silver medal in the 2010 Gay Olympics in Germany!
Everything is fresh—meats, veggies, salsas. It is just the way we would make at home if we had the skill to do so.
Get Fresh at
El Camino Inn | CRAIG CHADWELL & MIKE MOFFO WALK INTO THE El Camino Inn downtown on S. Fourth St. and you’ll be stepping back in time, yet stepping forward into a well-sated appetite and exceptional eating experience. You’ll hear vintage tunes flowing from a genuine turntable. Yes, kids, this is spinning vinyl – as in needle-on-the-record without the “Wikki-Wikki” rap stuff. Nowhere else has a server taking our order ever asked, “Do you mind just a second while I flip to side two?” (Yes, we mean the record.) The atmosphere is simplistic and reminiscent of I Dream of Jeanie meets Gunfight at the OK Corral. There are trippy lights, a simple chalkboard drink menu, a large sailfish over the bar, and an old 7-Up sign menu with pop-in letters.
You’ll want it for your chips and to add to your meal. Heck, you might want some for who-knows-what later. The tomatillo salsa is amazing. There’s also a habanero-infused, spicy green salsa. It’ll help greatly if you need an excuse to drink your margarita faster. (But please drink responsibly. Besides, this stuff is too good to chug.)
This is a seat-yourself kind of place, but it’s comfy. The staff is extremely polite, yet real. Become a regular, show some personality, and they’ll become “fun-snarky.” They are allowed to be themselves. It’s also one of the reasons you won’t find us ever recommending the generic chains where your experience begins with the ever-predictable, “Hellomynameis _________ (insert trendy Abercrombie model name) andI’llbetakingcareof youthisevening. CanIstartyououtwithsomethingtodrinzzllzzll?”
The food is quick, but not fast. The delivery time allows perfect amount of time to chow down on your delicious and housemade chips (with the aforementioned salsa and guacamole, of course). When you do get your entrée, don’t be fooled. It may look like your normal, inexpensive Mexican food, but it is definitely not. Everything is fresh—meats, veggies, salsas. It is just the way we would make at home if we had the skill to do so. Only we don’t. (At least not like this.)
We’ve all heard it too many times: the greeting that all drones together as one word, and then trails into monotonous drivel. You’ll find none of that blandness at El Camino. They are real people with real personalities; it is very refreshing. The menu seems limited at first, but get creative if you want. They’re eager to let you have it the way you like it. The chips and salsa are a must, and so is the guacamole. Get the large.
All-in-all, El Camino Inn is a wonderful experience that is very reasonably priced. You may see us there, bellied up to the bar, with our faces in the guacamole (Yes, it has happened!), and chasing it all with a margarita or three! Since the #tastebuds have two hands each and four thumbs between us, we give El Camino Inn -- Four Guacamole-Covered Thumbs Up and a ¡Salud!
Speaking of, do order a pitcher of the made-from-scratch margaritas. There is no pre-mix going into these, so be prepared to have your #tastebuds titillated. We’re thinking the magic is in that bottle of brown gooey goodness you see them squeezing. That, plus the choice booze. It’s just an absolute winner.
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SARA SHARES Lessons from Franklin: Wit and Wisdom for the Modern Queer | SARA ERNEST PICTURE IT: Philadelphia, Spring 2013. A sometimes jaded, thirty-something know-it-all goes to nearby Bensalem, PA to meet her partner who is away on business. When presented with the option of touring Philly or heading to Manhattan, the thirty-something know-it-all replies without hesitation, “Let’s go into Manhattan. I don’t think there is anything I want to see in Philly.” Two days after the trip, this thirty-something know-it-all meets with her editor where he suggests a theme of: “Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.”
Franklin was credited with the saying, “It is the first responsibility of every citizen to question authority.” I’m not sure if this quote struck me so deeply because I tend to be a bit oppositional to begin with, or if it was my proximity to
Boy, am I glad I got out of my own way and finally agreed with my partner, Lori, to venture into Philadelphia before proceeding into Manhattan. Touring Independence Hall and seeing the Liberty Bell gave me a new perspective of the suggested theme.
Standing in Independence Hall, and again while writing this, I found the gravity of their situation astounding. To have the courage to stand up to the wealthier and better armed crown of England was not a task to be undertaken lightly.
IT IS THE FIRST RESPONSIBILITY OF EVERY CITIZEN TO QUESTION AUTHORITY Benjamin Franklin is, arguably, one of the greatest minds this country has ever known. Regardless of the span of centuries or the number of people who went there before me, being in the actual room where he helped draft the most important documents in the history of our great nation had a profound impact on me. Bear with me for a brief history lesson, or to paraphrase Mythbusters, “Warning: Historical Content.” We all know that Franklin lived in a time of sweeping changes in Europe and the American colonies. According to Wikipedia (Yes, I know. But this isn’t a Master’s thesis), Franklin lived in an era known as the Age of Enlightenment. It was a cultural movement of intellectuals in the 17th and 18th centuries whose purpose was to reform society using reason, challenge ideas grounded in tradition and faith, and advance knowledge through the scientific method. This period promoted skepticism, intellectual interchange, and scientific thought. This same period opposed superstition, intolerance, and some abuses of power by the church and the state.
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the room where Franklin and the other Founding Fathers essentially said to the establishment, “We don’t agree with you and we’re going to do things our way. If you have a problem with that, that’s too damn bad.”
We are at a similar point today. This time it is issues of equal pay, marriage equality, employment discrimination, tax benefits, adoption rights, trans* equality, bullying, and housing discrimination. These related rights and protections are denied to us because of who we are. It is our job as citizens of this amazing republic to ask questions. It is our responsibility, as the forebears of our future generations, to call our leaders and power holders on the carpet for things that are unfair and unjust. We deserve more than the crumbs others want to give us because we are different, but we have to stand up and take our fair share. After all, Franklin did also tell us, “The Constitution only gives people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself.”
SEXPERT THE PURSUIT OF HAPPY SEX | SHAUN WHYBARK SEX IS A FUN, enjoyable activity that nearly everyone participates in. Let’s just be honest. The enjoyment that comes from getting laid has such power that it can allow someone who hasn’t had sex in a while act like a total bitch become completely happy and relaxed afterwards, if even only for a few brief moments. Obviously the “release” that comes from sex is physically enjoyable and the intensity varies depending on how active your partner is during intercourse. Sex can be intense with someone who is doing everything right, but can also be boring for someone who’s getting it all wrong. Where does that intensity come from? If we are have certain attributes that we find appealing in sex partners, such as physical appearance, body type, eyes, hair color, scene, etc., and the intensity of sex varies from person to person, it leads me to ask the question, why do we seek out sex? Are we just looking for the “release” or are we looking for the “connection” that’s made? We all want to share our lives with those who care for us. Individually, we may seek out sex as a way to connect with another person. That’s natural. From my perspective, the connection that is made with the person is what makes sex so enjoyable. That is why relationships are allowed to thrive and maintain and it is also a reason why they fail due to that connection. When the connection is made and it’s new, sex is fun, exciting and intense. It can last as long as you want it to. You see that person and get to choose to find a way to keep connecting or you choose to stop wanting that connection. Enjoyable and fulfilling sex is based on that basic idea of keeping the people you are having sex with connected to you. Enjoy getting to know the actual person and make a connection before having sex. Have intense, satisfying, and enjoyable sex by enjoying the person sucking your dick or going down on you, not the fact that they are doing it. By learning to appreciate the person—not just the act—you will naturally protect yourself, because you want to keep that connection. Hey, it’s not rocket science. When it comes to great sex, when you make each other happy, you just can’t lose. Free confidential HIV and STI testing is available at ARC Ohio’s locations. Anonymous HIV testing is available. For more information call 614-299-2437 or visit www.arcohio.com
2013 PRIDE PHOTO YEARBOOK
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If you asked most LGBTQ people if they want marriage equality in Ohio, they would say “Yes.” Sure, you have some who see marriage as an oppressive institution in which they do not want to participate. But no matter where you fall on the marriage question, it cannot be denied that a legal marriage gives over 1,000 rights and benefits that would serve to strengthen many LGBTQ relationships and families. Many passionate people are working to make marriage equality a reality in Ohio. The questions of “when” and “how” are front and center in the strategic approaches. We invited both Equality Ohio and FreedomOhio to help our readers better understand their approaches and issues they see as being most important. In full disclosure, our editor helped in the founding of Equality Ohio. Quorum Columbus is intentionally not endorsing either groups’ approach. The views, opinions, and words are theirs. Here to enlighten, are their submissions.
(Ballot Initiative Strategy Center). In partnership, these organizations have demonstrated the operational, financial, experiential, and intellectual capital to win marriage campaigns and Equality Ohio is partnered with them to win marriage in Ohio. We know that timing matters. Not too long ago, many of us were told that “the time is now”. We were all promised that a marriage equality amendment in Ohio must (and would) be on the ballot in 2013. Anyone courageous enough to question whether or not a ballot amendment could actually be passed in 2013 (given polling percentages and available voter turnout data) was publicly shamed as not being supportive of marriage equality. At Equality Ohio, we didn’t and we don’t set arbitrary dates for putting our basic human rights on the ballot for a vote by Ohioans. From the beginning, we have recommended putting a marriage equality amendment on the ballot “when the time is right”. We stand by that now. The lessons learned from successful marriage equality campaigns around the country teach us this:
How We Win Marriage in Ohio How do we win marriage equality in Ohio? We know that gathering signatures for a ballot amendment is not enough. A successful marriage equality campaign is a complex, multilayered process that takes collaboration and experience to win. We know that the stakes matter. There are 30 states with constitutional amendments similar to ours. There is also a very high national awareness of how Ohioans vote: as Ohio goes, so goes the nation. Marriage equality is about recognition of and dignity in our relationships. When marriage equality goes on the ballot in Ohio, we must be positioned to win. We know that working together matters. In every state that has marriage equality, partnerships between national LGBTQ organizations and in-state organizations were an essential element that factored into the successful campaigns. Those coalitions were formed based on trust and transparency. The organizations that created the groundswell of successes across the country are Freedom to Marry (national), the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, the Human Rights Campaign, the Equality Federation, Lambda Legal, the ACLU and BISC
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We must be strategic and intentional.
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We must partner with those who know how to win.
We must be well financed.
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• We must be transparent and honest with each other.
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We must be tactically patient.
Simply put, Ohio needs more than a list of signatures. How do we win marriage equality in Ohio? Together. We know that we must build a strong coalition to capitalize on the national groundswell and to actually win in Ohio. At Equality Ohio, we are doing just that. Elyzabeth Holford, Executive Director Equality Ohio
While this was occurring, polls were coming out that cannot be ignored. An ABC/Washington Post poll showed 58 percent of Ohioans support marriage equality. A Saperstein Poll for the Columbus Dispatch, a conservative newspaper, said 54 percent of all voters support our amendment. The numbers among young voters, Republican, Democrat and Independent, are as high as 75 percent in support.
The Case for Being Prepared in 2014 FreedomOhio, the organization formed to bring marriage equality, will decide next June if we will go to the ballot in November, 2014. In the meantime, we will not sit idly by waiting for the time to be just right. We didn’t foresee the seismic shift in the political landscape when we formed FreedomOhio in late 2011. We wanted to bring an amendment to voters to change the Ohio Constitution so a loving same-gender couple could marry and enjoy the same legal and civil rights as any other couple. Then, as now, the naysayers said the timing was not right. We ignored them. We developed a 46-word amendment that was simple, straightforward, and constitutional. A Republican Ohio Attorney General and a Republican majority on the Ohio Ballot Board approved the language and the Ohio Supreme Court, 6-1 Republican, rejected a legal challenge against our amendment. We believe this is the strongest and most attractive language on marriage equality in the country. This amendment will overturn DOMA passed in 2004. A couple will have the right to go to the courthouse and get a marriage license. At the same time, our amendment protects religious freedom by stating houses of worship are free to choose whether to recognize or perform same-gender marriages or not. Clergy members are increasingly endorsing us. We could not foresee what was to occur once we began our journey when we began collecting signatures more than a year ago. Barack Obama, in the middle of his reelection campaign, became the first president in U.S. history to endorse marriage equality. Our volunteer base quadrupled overnight.
While we were working day after day, the naysayers did nothing. In idle, they are not preparing for opportunity or victory. We did not listen to them then and we are not listening to them now. This amendment belongs to the LGBT community, the thousands of same-gender couples who want marriage equality sooner rather than later and their supporters. We have a message to the LGBT community and our supporters. Join us. Together we will work and prepare and be ready for opportunity and victory. We are not going to take 36 months off and wait until 2016 based on projections of the political climate three years hence. Think about where we were on this issue in June, 2010. No one could have predicted then the dramatic changes in our culture. Mahatma Gandhi said, “full effort is full victory. You may never know what results come of your actions, but if you do nothing, there will be no results.” We are going to bring marriage equality to Ohio without the naysayers. They represent a minute fraction of the LGBT community and they don’t represent Ohio. Too many naysayers are in DC and New York where they enjoy marriage equality. They are in no hurry. Unfortunately, the naysayers include some Ohioans. To all naysayers, enjoy your idle time. We have been working feverishly for 18 months. We have much work ahead of us. We also know you will be watching from your easy chairs in your living rooms when we raise our arms in triumph and celebrate bringing marriage equality to Ohio as soon as Election Night, 2014. Ben Deutschle, Chair FreedomOhio PAC Executive Committee
Then in November, three states passed marriage equality and one state rejected a ban on same-gender marriage. Again, our volunteer numbers surged. Earlier this year, Rob Portman from Ohio became the first Republican in the U.S. Senate to endorse marriage equality. And guess what? More volunteers signed up all across the state.
PHOTOS | AMY TANNENBAUM
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couples
THE C-BUS OF LOVE: A ROAD TRIP FOR MARRIAGE EQUALITY | AMY TANNENBAUM
On June 21, 25 same-sex couples from Columbus and beyond rode the “C-Bus of Love” to Washington, DC to be legally married on the steps of the Supreme Court. The location is symbolic since the fate of DOMA is being considered by the High Court (a decision in the case had not been announced at press time). The week prior to the trip, a new law was enacted that prohibits mass gatherings or protests on the steps of the court, so the ceremony for the 25 couples was held just outside the barricade. The nearby security staff were so moved by the ceremony that they offered the couples the opportunity to have portraits taken right on the steps – and history was made! The trip was organized by LGBT activists, Columbus residents, and Columbus Pride Parade Grand Marshals, Josh and Steven Snyder-Hill. The newlyweds returned to Columbus in time to celebrate on a special float in the Pride Parade. Following the parade, the couples danced their first dances and cut a huge rainbow cake on the Pride Festival’s main stage.
PHOTOS | AMY TANNENBAUM
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More Jane Jacobs, Less Marc Jacobs DEVELOPMENT | JM RAYBURN I HAVE CALLED Columbus home for 11 years. I spent the early years growing up in the Polaris area. Living there is probably what sparked much of my teen angst as I despised what I would later learn to call “urban sprawl.” My afterschool job was at a chain store. I shopped at big box stores and I was a slave to my cash-hungry car. My sanctuary was the Short North. There, I could ditch my car, meet new people, and stick it to the proverbial man by frequenting local businesses. Most importantly, I favored the sense of place and the sense of community lost somewhere between the seas of asphalt and eight lanes of high-velocity Polaris traffic. Over the years, I have witnessed the evolution of High Street in the Short North as both a visitor and now as a resident. These are exciting times for the neighborhood, but also cautionary times. Rising rents are the latest phenomenon that more and more people discuss in the Short North. The good news is that this means that the neighborhood is thriving and that the demand for space is high. The bad news is that some businesses have been and will be priced out. The question remains whether or not their replacements will contribute to the independent arts culture of High Street or simply undermine it? This situation is not unique to Columbus. In New York City’s Greenwich Village, graphic designer Mike Joyce was unhappy that every store and restaurant he loved in the neighborhood was being pushed out of business by chains and franchises like Starbucks, Ralph Lauren, and yes, Marc Jacobs. This was the result of rents doubling and tripling. Witnessing the loss of his favorite restaurants due to being priced out of the
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“Not TV or illegal drugs but the automobile has been the chief destroyer of American communities.” - Jane Jacobs
The Short north is a perfect example of Jane Jacobs’ Principles. neighborhood drove him to launch the grassroots campaign “More Jane Jacobs, Less Marc Jacobs.” PAUSE. Who is Jane Jacobs and why do we want more of her? Jane Jacobs was a journalist, activist, and a fearless critic of inflexible authority. She is the author of the 1961 book, The Death and Life of Great American Cities, that revolutionized urban planning from the post-WWII utopian planning culture of tower blocks, highways through city hearts and slum clearances. Jane Jacobs challenged a ruthless urban planner named Robert Moses and his plans to build a highway through Greenwich Village. Moses’ impact on New York City was profound and his insensitivity was legendary. His downfall came at the same time as the rise of Jane Jacobs. The reason why Jane Jacobs is idolized in Mike Joyce’s campaign is because she was the first voice to come out and argue that neighborhoods have an incredibly rich social structure that actually works very well. She talked about how the importance of having eyes on the street and that a sense of community can make streets safer. It’s this interaction between the urban-built environment and social fabric that make community possible and that make culture thrive. The Short North is a perfect example of Jane Jacobs’ principles. Cities and neighborhoods are at their best when there is a perfect blend of people, local businesses, activities, and culture. We must remember this the next time there is a public meeting for a new neighborhood development and as we choose where to shop and dine. Let’s do what we can to keep the beloved character of the Short North and other Downtown neighborhoods alive. That means more local spending, more time with your neighbors, and more Jane Jacobs.
PERSPECTIVE
A GRATITUDE ADJUSTMENT
| EVAN T. ROBINSON “The Constitution only gives people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself.” These wise words from Ben Franklin recently inspired me to set out on the path to do just that. I think a lot of us have been busy chasing down happiness, but I eventually came to the conclusion that making a “gratitude” adjustment is invaluable tool along that path. I’ve done a number of things commonly believed to improve one’s mood: gaining financial stability bit by bit, attempting yoga, Google-ing “mindfulness” regularly, breaking bad habits, picking up new hobbies, eating healthier, routinely searching for YouTube videos of babies laughing, and secretly praying to Oprah every night, to name a few. I’d say these activities have definitely conjured up a sense of happiness. But after a short time, these experiences didn’t necessarily fulfill me, and ultimately became fleeting altogether.
Again, look around at all the good. Gratefully appreciate and savor such basic pleasures as companionship, the natural environment, and the daily celebrations of pride. I’m not saying that I have found and mastered the key to happiness, but I’m getting better. So like Franklin said, go catch it, and sprinkle in a bit of gratitude to help along the way. Also, it never hurts to call on Oprah from time to time.
“HAPPINESS ITSELF IS A KIND OF GRATITUDE.”
I’m sure you’ve heard it before. But it really does start with counting your blessings. You’ll never be satisfied, if you are not grateful for the good things in your life. Take time to take inventory of all the good happening around you. But don’t neglect the not so great things, either. You also needed to be grateful for the hardship, the obstacles, the failures, and even the injustices. Why would one want to do such a thing? Understand that the “not-so-great” are sources of wisdom in our lives. They give us strength, they teach us how to persevere and they continue the formation of our individual and collective resiliency. Happiness itself is a kind of gratitude. For me, it also fuels my sense of humility, and keeps me in tune with the ebbs and flows of others, which we all experience by merely being alive. It feeds my communal spirit, and encourages me to use my signature strengths and virtues in the service of something larger than myself. An example being my personal mission to contribute to the LGBTQ community’s advancing battles for equality. It has been long and cumbersome battle, but it has brought a vast array of groups together more so than ever before; all fighting for a common goal. Being thankful for every step taken makes life’s hardships conquerable. Agnes Repplier said, “It is not easy to find happiness in ourselves, and yet, it is not possible to find it elsewhere.” This reaffirms my belief that happiness doesn’t depend on external conditions, and that it is governed by our mental attitude.
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CULTURE
Balancing Professionalism, Personalism, and Art in Academia
| QUE JONES IN THE WORLD OF artistic freedom, open-mindedness is a given. But what happens when that “accepting world” is placed within the constraints of academia? When expressing oneself through art, does one hide one’s personal life in the pursuit of professionalism, or does one remain open and allow artistic freedom to flow as it would in the outside world? When does one sacrifice their art for education? The following is a summary of two interviews with musicians from the world of academia. For the past year, I had the privilege of working and performing numerous concerts with Dr. Scott Jones, one of the OSU band directors. Jones is an openly gay professor who encourages his students in a very positive way. After receiving his degree from OSU, Jones taught at Teays Valley High School, Twin Cities in Chicago, and Concordia College. He then returned to OSU. When asked how he learned to balance being an openly gay male, a dedicated educator, and a source of inspiration to his students, Jones responded, “I thought to myself, my career is going to fit around my life…not the other way around. My walk is to teach. It’s what I’m designed to do and I am going to do it.” Jones grew up in a time after the onset of the AIDS epidemic when “the only time you heard ‘gay’ was on a 60 Minutes special.” While Jones said, “I didn’t see myself in the gay culture…what I saw in pride parades, I couldn’t relate to that,” his community thought “He’s not gay… he’s just single.” “Fear is one of the most terrible things in the world…The reality is, much of our fear comes from not understanding. Once you get to the point where you recognize there is some of me in you and some of you in me, it all gets better. Fear is one of the worst motivators in life.” Jones now realizes his fears were “products of (his) own worry more than anything.” Jones did not fully emerge from hiding until his collegiate position at Concordia. During his interview process he said to a committee member as they walked across campus, “Hey, I’m gay and if this is going to be a problem, thanks but no thanks.” The committee member replied, “No, there is no problem.” Jones shared that this is the point when he crossed the threshold and realized that academia was the best of all possible worlds. This process was repeated during his hiring process at OSU.
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“That’s part of what I bring to the university, someone who is trying to thrive, had a 15 year public school career, seems happy, views the glass as half full, and is also gay. It is all compatible; it is all possible. That’s part of what being a teacher or professor is. It’s about learning life through music.” Dr. Melanie Richards has taught at Columbus City Schools for the past 13 years. She holds a DMA (musical equivalent of a PhD) in clarinet performance from OSU. Speaking on her personal life, Richards said, “During my young adult years I was defined as a lesbian. And then when I was 25, I married a man and was married to him for 20 years. We are divorced now. And when I separated, I decided that I needed to reclaim my lesbianism.” In discussing her marriage, Richards stated, “I fell in love with the idea of being in love with him. In the late 1980s it wasn’t really an option for two women to have a family together. I have two kids. My youngest child is by birth and is eight years old. My oldest child is adopted. He is 16 now… 16 years ago do you think they would have given him to me as a single adult, or a woman in a same-sex relationship?” “With middle school kids, they are very curious about your personal life. When I first separated from my husband, my students noticed I wasn’t wearing my wedding ring any more. The students asked and I simply said I was separated. This past year my partner asked me to spend the rest of my life with her. I said ‘yes’, with the hope that one day it would become a real marriage. I started wearing a ring and my students started asking me about it. I talked to lots of other LGBT colleagues and got a variety of opinions. The one who got through to me was a teacher who is really out who said, ‘If you were straight and got engaged would you hesitate to tell them?’ This stuck with me and I thought, ‘I am protected by Columbus Public Schools,’ so the next time they asked I simply said, ‘I am engaged to a woman.’ The students responded with ‘What’s the big deal? Why did you try to hide it? Can we go to the wedding?’ It was very liberating!” When asked what advice would she like to pass on to upcoming teachers, Richards responded, “With any situation you enter, you need to know your crowd…For example, if I lived in northwest Ohio and taught in a school district with 2,000 kids, my life would be completely different. Be aware of where you are going to be working and speak to that environment.” Within the world of academia there is much structure and rigor which are not always conducive to a creative person. You have heard from two individuals whom have found a balance in their personal and professional lives. Their accomplishments have and will continue to lead the way for others.
Getting to the Core | MICHAEL GREENHOUSE
The core (aka ABS) is made of three different muscle groups:
Rectus Abdominal – This muscle group is the center of your core and helps with flexion of the spine. Erector Spinae – This is your lower back and is one of the most important parts of the core. This muscle group helps with lateral flexion, extension, and rotation. Obliques – These muscles are located on the sides of the body. They help with rotation and stabilization.
For your mid-section to work correctly, all three parts of the core need to be strong. If one area is flawed, then the structure of your midsection – which protects your spine – will fail. When your core fails, you become injured. More than half of all injuries that I help rehabilitate are due to the person having a weak or poorly-firing midsection. To have a strong (and sexy!) core isn’t determined by how many crunches or hanging leg lifts you can do. The main purpose of the core is to stabilize the torso and if power during movement. One of the best exercises to build core strength is a simple, front-weighted squat. When performing a squat properly, all three areas of the core have to work in order for the squat to be effective. Another great core exercise is a plank. Planks build the endurance of midsection stabilizers. Solely doing an exercise like crunches to attempt core strengthening does, for the most part, nothing. The core has three different muscles groups with a total of six muscles in the midsection alone. So to build that sexy and strong core, you need to perform exercises that work all six muscles during the same movement. In other words, there’s no more lying down on your back to do crunches. Get up! It’s time to start running, pushing, pulling, twisting, squatting, bending, and lunging all for “NON-SITTING POSITIONS.” It’s time to train smarter and to train your body the way it was intended to move. Your body was built to move in multiple planes, not one-dimensionally. Stop training that way. Salute your core by training it smarter. So when you are ready to peel off that shirt, not only do you have a sexy midsection but you also have a functional core as well.
FITNESS
THIS IS THE TIME of year to take your shirt off and to salute your CORE. Before we start ripping our shirts off and posing near the pool, let’s first understand the core. Why is the core important? How do we train this very popular muscular area.
Home Network Real Estate Justin Sali Agent/Consultant 614-291-SOLD justin.sali@ERA.com TigerHouses.com Facebook.com/TigerHouses
Professionally Serving Buyers & Sellers Since 2005
WE STAND TOGETHER
TO FIGHT HATE AND VIOLENCE | BOWEN MARSHALL LAST MONTH’S VIOLENT, hate-filled attacks on members of our community were heinous and heart-wrenching. They are people who were going about their lives when their worlds suddenly changed: a shadow went from being a contrast between levels of light to an assailant waiting to strike; walking home, a time for thoughtful introspection, became a feared trek that involved mortal peril; and strangers once approached as future friends became attackers to be feared and avoided. My thoughts and prayers continue to go out to those three men, wishing not only for their speedy recoveries from their physical wounds but also that their spirits and their beliefs in the beauty and kindness of their fellow humans heals too. After a traumatizing and vicious event like being attacked, the world can never be the same. Healing does not mean going back to the way you saw the world before you were attacked. Your eyes have been open in a visceral and terrifying way to the terribleness that exists in the world, and you have to adjust and living in that changed world, a different world.
much harder to be there when the celebration is over, or worse, when the celebration is interrupted or redirected by acts of violence. That is not the case for our community, and this is one of the reasons I love it so dearly. ON FRIDAYS, WE WEAR PINK was an outpouring of uninhibited and unrepentant love for the survivors of hate in our Columbus queer community. It was one of those rare and exquisite moments where collectively THOUSANDS (more than 6,700) of people had the collective choice to go about their lives and ignore all that had happened the power or take a stand to support these survivors in our community; and we chose to stand. We still stand. When history turns its gaze back on Columbus, Ohio circa 2013, it will see the violence that took place in our streets. But more importantly it will see an LGBTQ community, shining like a beacon of pink hope and love that stood up in love and support and furthered the fight to end violence against all in our city.
As a gay man who loves the Columbus queer community deeply and a clinical mental health counselor, I write this column wearing two hats: one as a person who lives in the Short North and goes out with my friends and loved ones into the city that is my home, and one as a person who has sat with people struggling with and fighting to recover from trauma. It is a brave and bold journey that these men are embarking on, the journey of recovery, one that they did not ask for, but nevertheless is set before them. That is a difficult road to watch loved ones travel. We wish we could take their place, take their pain, or seek retribution on those who have hurt them, but we cannot. Instead, we find ourselves standing beside them, ready to catch them should the stumble, hold them in their sorrow, and encourage them as they move forward. There can be frustration in standing next to them, feelings of powerlessness and discouragement in not being able to do more, but standing in support is ultimately all that we can do. The journey of healing is theirs, not ours, as tough as that is to accept. I write this column to do my best to amplify the stories of our community, not only to celebrate our pride but also recognize and give record to the pain-filled journeys we must take to get to the pride-filled, joyous moments in life. It’s easy to be there for others in our community during celebrations. It can be
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IT’S EASY TO BE THERE FOR OTHERS IN OUR COMMUNITY DURING CELEBRATIONS. IT’S MUCH HARDER WHEN THE CELEBRATION IS OVER.
To celebrate Independence Day, the crabs have their say this month: Happy Fourth of July! You should break free a night or two each week to watch us race toward the golden circle of victory. We are very competitive, but we really get along. Our founding father Kris and his assistants take great care of us. We have a great time and promise you will as well! We only drink water, but at the races you have other options. As Kris always says, “Until next time, stay crabby!” Claw-me-Maybe Roy-G-Crab Shel-lee Crabcallaway Crabtomus Prime Mary Count Crabula Kingler Surf-n-Turf Clawby
Fascinating Fact: To drink, hermit crabs use their claws to spoon water to their gills.
FOLLOW THE CRABS! FACEBOOK / CRABRACINGWITHKRIS
Come Join the Race: Local Bar: Mondays at 9:30 p.m. Exile Bar: Thursdays at 9:30 p.m.
SouthBend "Still Your Favorite Corner Bar!" Wayne Smith as Cher - LIVE! (in the Joey Show)
Denise Russell, Vivi Velure, Paige Passion, & Erica Kendall Sat - July 13 - 10pm & Midnight
Wed - July 3 - 10pm
July 4th Cook-Out and Potluck Thur -July 4 - 2pm - ?
After the Ohio State Fair stop in and grab a Cold Drink! July 24 to Aug 4
Happy Independence Day! Hours: Mon / Sat - Noon to 2:30 / Happy Hour Noon to 8 / Sun 12 to 12 NOW OPEN - Sundays - Bloody Mary’s + John & Val - 12 -12 Mon - Karaoke with Calvin - 9 Un-Twisted Tuesdays - (Any & All Talent - reg 8-9) - Show 9:30 “Vodka Vednesdays” $3 call vodka / Joey Variety Show - 10 Thur - One Big Show - 11 Double Shows - Fri, Sat - 10 & Midnight
Part y with our New DJ B illy!
126 E. Moler St. Columbus, Ohio (614) 444 - 3386 Southbend@wowway.biz .com
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| JACKIE VANDERWORTH Q #1: Dear Jackie, I’m having some bedroom balance difficulty. I’m not versatile and my partner Craig is. He keeps asking me to “top” him. How do I keep him satisfied? I’m not comfortable in that role and am not sure how to tell him. ~ Rob Dear Rob, Toys…toys…and toys! A good lover is accommodating without relinquishing their own tastes. Compromise is the key when two bottoms unite. May I suggest the double-sided dildo can be a friend to you both when your lover is in the bottom of moods. Draw a mustache on him, name him, and welcome him to your family. ~ Jackie Q #2: Dear Jackie, Summer is my favorite time of the year with all the great festival and outdoor events. My boyfriend Joe loves them too – sometimes a little too much. He can usually pace his drinking, but something about outdoor events causes him to drink too much. I am tired of babysitting my boyfriend. ~ Greg Dear Greg, Well unfortunately, there isn’t a daycare for adults. But maybe there should be! Try attending events where there is no alcohol, for a change. When you do attend alcohol-fueled festivals, set a drink minimum and set a time to leave. You can also take flask of your favorite spirit to mix with bottled water. That can limit the amount (and save money). If he doesn’t jump on the sober bandwagon, leave him at home with the teenage neighborhood babysitter...a far worse punishment! ~ Jackie
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WANT TO ASK JACKIE A QUESTION ABOUT LIFE, THE UNIVERSE, AND EVERYTHING? GET SOME ANSWERS! JACKIE@QUORUMCOLUMBUS.COM
Q #3: Dear Jackie, I’ve gone on some dates with a girl I really like named Julie. She is smart, has a great job and is beautiful. The problem is she is a die-hard vegan and I love meat. Bacon, burgers, ham, sausage, steak... all of it is wonderful! What do I do? Can we cook meals together or am I doomed to a life full of lectures about animal cruelty if we take it to the next level? ~Todd Dear Todd, Respect the meat and the plants, as well as each other. Since you cannot live in herbivore harmony, I suggest creatively preparing meals where veggies, meat, and fruits harmonize in complimentary bliss. Pair up pineapple and orzo with a little ham on the side for you. Fix them together and serve them separately to satisfy the carnivore and herbivore in your relationship before you devour each other in the process. ~ Jackie
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4 Club 20 Old North Columbus 20 E Duncan Ave 614.261.9111 8 Exile Italian Village 893 N 4th St 614.299.0069 10 Wine on High Short North 789 N High St 614. 294.8466 13 Local Bar Short North 913 N High St 614.670.8958 14 Slammers Downtown 202 E Long St 614.221.8880
2 Axis Short North 775 N High St 614.291.4008 22 Wall Street Night Club Downtown 144 N Wall St 614.464.2800
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La Fogata Grill Short North 790 N High St 614.294.7656 Level Dining Lounge Short North 700 N High St 614.754.7111 Union Short North 782 N High St 614.421.2233 Circus Short North 1227 N High St 614.421.2998 Barrel 44 Short North 1227 N High St 614.421.2998
SHOP. 9 The Garden Short North 1186 N High St 614.294.2869 18 Torso Short North 772 N High St 614.421.7663 19 Torso (in Exile) Italian Village 893 N 4th St 614.299.0069
ENGAGE. 5 ARC OHIO Clintonville 4400 N High St 614.299.2437 24 ARC OHIO Medical Ctr + Pharmacy Short North 1033 N High St 16 Stonewall Columbus Short North 1160 N High St 614.299.7764
MERION VILLAGE
BREWERY DISTRICT SOUTH SIDE OLDE TOWNE EAST
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24 Explorers Club Merion Village 1586 S High St 614.725.0155
Cavan Irish Pub Merion Village 1409 S High St 614.725.5502 Club Diversity Brewery District 863 S High St 614.224.4050 Columbus Fuel Bar Merion Village 1312 S High St 614.725.0130 South Bend Merion Village 126 E. Moler St 614.444.3386 The Toolbox Saloon South Side 744 Frebis Ave 614.670.8113 Tremont Brewery District 708 S High St 614.445.9365
DRINK + DANCE. 1 A.W.O.L. Bar + The Barracks Olde Towne East 49 Parsons Ave 614.621.8779
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MUNITY RESOURCES
LOCAL & STATE ORGANIZATIONS Stonewall Columbus 614-299-7764 www.stonewallcolumbus.org The leading visionary, inclusive and fun-spirited LGBT organization in Central Ohio – sets the pace for increasing the visibility and acceptance of the community. It continues to be the driving force on the LGBT and allied community. ARC Ohio 800-252-0827 www.arcohio.org Fghts the spread of HIV, works towards reducing its transmission, stigma and the resulting discrimination through education and awareness, and provides HIV/AIDS.
BRAVO (Buckeye Region Anti-Violence Organization) 614-294-STOP www.bravo-ohio.org Works to eliminate violence perpetuated on the basis through prevention, advocacy, violence documentation and survivor services. Equality Ohio 614-224-0400 www.equalityohio.org A statewide lobbying organization working to secure equality for LGBT Ohioans. Kaleidoscope Youth Center 614-294-5437 www.kycohio.org Provides advocacy, education, support and a safe environment for LGBT youth in Central Ohio. P-FLAG Columbus 614-806-8025 An educational advocacy group working to increase awareness and understanding. Education and advocacy are the primary means of creating a hospitable environment for Central Ohio’s LGBT citizens and our families, friends and allies. Rainbow Sisters www.rainbowsisters.info A social and community-oriented group for lesbian women age 40 and over. Sisters of Lavender A social/support for women 40 and over. S.O.L. is the oldest lesbian organization in Columbus. TransOhio 614-441-8167 www.transohio.org Serves the Ohio transgender and allied communities by providing services, education, support and advocacy to promote and improve the health, safety and life experience of Ohio transgender individuals.
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NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS GLAAD www.glaad.org National organization that promotes fair, accurate and inclusive representation as a means of challenging discrimination based on sexual orientation or identity. Human Rights Campaign www.hrc.com The nation’s largest gay and lesbian political organization. NGLTF www.thetaskforce.org The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force (NGLTF) is a leading progressive civil rights organization that has supported grassroots organizing since 1973. The National Coalition for LGBT Youth www.outproud.org A wide range of resources available for youth and educators.
The Queer Resources Directory www.qrd.org and everything queer including families, youth, politics, resources, media and more. ARTS & MUSIC Capital Pride Band of Columbus 614-325-1590 www.cappride.org An Ohio-based LGBT organization that formed in 2003 and currently has a membership of over 70 instrumentalists.Our "all are welcome" policy applies to anyone interested in membership, regardless of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, disability, age and sexual orientation. Columbus Gay Men’s Chorus 614-228-2462 http://www.cgmc.com/ Singing out since 1990, this chorus presents a series of concerts year. Open auditions held prior to rehearsal for each show. Evolution Theatre Company 614-233-1124 www.evolutiontheatre.org A semi-professional theatre company that presents musicals, dramas and comedies that have not been Broadway shows as well as new works and world Imagine Productions 614-398-1110 www.imaginecolumbus.com theatrical troupe committed to entertaining and educating community stakeholders in the Columbus Metro area through performing arts. We believe in inclusiveness, openness, and tolerance, and recognize that empowerment and growth occurs with audiences and performers, alike. Wexner Center for the Arts 614-292-3535 www.wexarts.org Internationally known contemporary arts center at
and educational programs, as well as a store and a café (Heirloom), all under one roof in an architectural landmark. COUNSELING Randi Cohen, LPCC-S 614-267-1993 www.randicohen.com Private practice in counseling working with adults helping to create strong sense of self, good communication tools & to get a clearer sense of how others see you, by focusing on awareness and working in the present. Shawn D. King, PhD., LISW 614-655-3554 www.shawnkingphd.com Providing individual, family, and group counseling services to the LGBT community. Specializing in relationship issues, anger management and mental health services including anxiety and depression. HEALTH & WELLNESS CHOICES 614-224-4663 www.choicescolumbus.org Takes pride in being the premier direct service provider of accredited domestic violence programming in central Ohio. Since 1977 they have provided counseling, shelter, crisis intervention, education and community and legal support and advocacy to central Ohio residents facing domestic violence. The Crystal Club 614-214-4828 www.thecrystalclub.org transsexuals, female impersonators, and other transgender individuals. Huckleberry House 614-294-5553 www.huckhouse.org Established in 1970 to provide a safe place for runaway youth in Columbus. Today, it provides many programs to help teens all over Franklin County who are in crisis situations, who are homeless or runaways. NetCare 614-276-CARE www.netcareaccess.org Provides twenty-four hour mental health and substance abuse crisis intervention, stabilization and assessment for Franklin County residents. Planned Parenthood of Central Ohio, Inc. 614-224-2235 www.plannedparenthood.org The nation's oldest and largest sexual and reproductive health care organization. America's most trusted name in women's health. Trevor Project 866-4U-TREVOR www.thetrevorproject.org Determined to end suicide among LGBT youth by including our nationwide, 24/7 crisis intervention lifeline.
ADJOURN | JIM RYAN “Freedom is standing next to you.” (Freedom, S. Nicks and M. Campbell, 1990) Freedom is a fascinating concept when applied to actual life. We live in a nation whose core identity is based on freedom and equality. The Declaration of Independence – the document whose adoption we celebrate July 4 – features these words: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal ...” Yet just about every minority population in the U.S. has had to speak out, argue, advocate, protest, and fight to ensure that those words and this idea of freedom didn’t exclude its people. LGBTQ people are, of course, no exception. To contemplate the complexity of freedom in our lives, consider: In June, Greater Columbus’ LGBTQ communities basked in the glow of the Stonewall Columbus Pride Festival, a high-profile acknowledgment of our increasing freedoms. In stark contrast, while we were preparing for Pride, we were also forced to question our assumed freedom to safely walk the streets of Olde Towne East, Merion Village, and the Short North, perceived LGBTQ-friendly neighborhoods, after three highprofile acts of anti-gay violence. If that’s not enough, ponder the seemingly interminable, alternately hopeful and gut-wrenching wait for rulings from the U.S. Supreme Court about marriage equality. The months that passed between the actual hearings and the announcement of those decisions were both a reminder of our second-class status and a promise that a couple more bricks of our civil rights confinement were closer to disintegration. Even the idea of individual freedom, that each of us has “certain, unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness,” according to the Declaration of Independence, is ensconced in a shade of irony, considering individual freedom has almost always been a result of collective effort. Every civil rights movement in our nation’s history, from women’s suffrage in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to civil rights in the 1960s to our own movement for marriage equality, employment non-discrimination, and other rights, has achieved its goals through the collaboration and support of hundreds, then thousands of people. As Independence Day dawns, I ask each of us to consider our role in that collective effort for freedom. The obvious means to that end is to “get involved.” Greater Columbus is home to many
organizations, from political and social to athletic and artistic, that help raise the visibility of our community. And make no mistake: Visibility is one of the foundations of our freedom. But also consider straightforward, individual actions that have a ripple effect for other LGBTQ people. When a lesbian couple corrects a cashier who assumes the two are sisters, when an athlete in the airport asked about his trophy responds that he finished second at a gay softball tournament, when the transgender person clarifies his name change at the Bureau of Motor Vehicles – each is laying the groundwork for the freedom of the LGBTQ children, siblings, and friends of the cashier, the airport stranger, and the BMV worker, simply by not hiding. The generations before us took great risks that have led to the freedoms we have today. When we take relatively minor risks – joining a LGBTQ organization, contributing to a cause, coming out, even to a stranger – we are fighting for freedom. We achieve our rights by reminding the people in our lives, the strangers we encounter, and the world we live in that we are here. As LGBTQ people, we share something that we may not share with any members of our family of origin, something that spans age, race, ethnicity, gender, and a host of other factors that may otherwise define us as different from one another. Our freedom has been possible because we are part of every community that exists in this nation and world. We really are everywhere. On July 4, celebrate the freedoms we have, recognize those we have yet to gain, and play your role in moving us forward.
Jim Ryan is co-founder, with Jeffrey D. Cox, of Outlook, which they sold in 1999. Ryan has also been involved with several LGBTQ organizations and initiatives. PHOTO | AMY TANNENBAUM