SGN January 18, 2013 - Section 1

Celebrating 40 Years!

Issue 03 Volume 41

FRIDAY January 18, 2013 FREE! 25¢ in bookstores & newsstands

Seattle Gay News SEATTLE’S LGBT NEWS & ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY

Inslee: ‘We should all be proud’

New governor hails marriage equality, says ‘first priority’ is jobs dren. We have a spirit of innovation here in Washington that has changed the world, from aerospace to software to e-commerce.

And you know what? We are not done. […]

[W]e do know two things. One: With our uniquely powerful fusion of values and talents, Washington state has the potential to lead the next wave of world-changing innovations. Two: The world will not wait for us. […]

associated press

Here are some excerpts from Washington Gov. Jay Inslee’s inaugural address, delivered January 16 in Olympia.

Our world is changing faster and more dramatically than ever before. “Once-in-a-lifetime” events now seem to happen with startling regularity.

We’ve seen the greatest financial crisis since the Great Depression, natural disasters fueled by climate change, and unimaginable human tragedies like Sandy Hook Elementary.

But we also bear witness to rapid breakthroughs in technology, medicine, and the fundamental understanding of our universe.

Every day I am left in awe at how much we are able to achieve, and heartbroken over the tragedies that we have had to endure. We truly live in extraordinary times.

We also live in an extraordinary state, filled with extraordinary people.

Where the world sees uncertainty, we see opportunity. And we all feel a profound responsibility to our children and our grandchil-

R-74 ‘AN INSPIRATION’ This is a very special day for my family. And this is a very special time in history for many other families.

People all across Washington stood up for fairness and family in approving marriage equality last November. We should all be proud. The vote on Referendum 74 represents the best of who we are as a state. It should be an inspiration for the progress we can make, see inslee page 6

Jay Inslee gives a thumbs-up after being sworn in as Washington state Governor on Wednesday.

Long may they reign Reforming the SPD Mr. and Miss Gay Seattle 2013 crowned

by Shaun Knittel SGN Associate Editor On January 12, Josue Henriquez and Isabella De La Rosa were officially crowned Mr. and Miss Gay Seattle, respectively, at the Imperial Sovereign Court of Seattle’s annual Mr. and Miss Gay Seattle Pageant, held at Neighbours (1509 Broadway).

Last year’s winners, Alexander Mentele and DonnaTella Howe, graciously stepped down as two of the most popular community ambassadors in recent memory. Both used the platform to raise money and awareness for issues ranging from marriage equality to aid for LGBT homeless youth.

Special guest host Jujubee from RuPaul’s Drag Race, Drag U, and Drag Race All Stars did a marvelous job.

In the Miss category, Drew Paradisco, Ursula Major, and Isabella De La Rosa faced off, while the Mr. category saw DJ PBear (Britin Baker), Jimmy Gonzalez, Ceasar Hart, and Josue Henriquez compete.

ment of Justice.

The mayor’s office announced the appointment of Podlodowski and 14 other members of the Community Police Commission in a statement released January 14. Podlodowski was one of 104 applicants, she told SGN, and one of 13 community representatives. Two commission members represent SPD. The December 2011 Justice Department report found that “SPD engages in a pattern or practice of excessive force, in violation of the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994.” The city and DOJ agreed on steps to remedy the situation in July of last year.

The Community Police Commission is charged with establishing priorities for reform and engaging the community in the effort. bizjournals.com

nate gowdy / seattle gay news

Weddings By the Sea Josue Henriquez and Isabella De La Rosa

Tina Podlodowski appointed to Community Police Commission

Tina Podlodowski

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer

Former Seattle City Council member Tina Podlodowski, a Lesbian who also once headed Lifelong AIDS Alliance, has been appointed to the special commission created by Mayor Mike McGinn to direct changes in the Seattle Police Department in the wake of a severely critical evaluation of see gay seattle page 7 SPD practices by the U.S. Depart-

www.oceanshoresweddings.com 206-403-8170 Let us make your wedding day as fun as a day at the beach.

see SPD page 4

ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION? Seattle • (206) 329-2000 • 1001 Broadway Suite 311 HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE? DIABETES? NITRATES?

$99 Guaranteed Visit!!

2

Seattle Gay News

January 18, 2013

Bellevue • (425) 455-1700 • 1940 116th Ave NE

www.InnovativeMen.com

Celebrating 40 Years!

Seattle Gay News FOUNDED 1973

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

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

MEMBER

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

2013

Deadlines

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

Editor In Chief George Bakan Associate Editor Shaun Knittel Production William Creswell Calendar Editors Mike Andrew and Rick McKinnon Travel Editor George Bakan Advertising Manager Marty Weisbrod Advertising Department Maggie Bloodstone Executive Assistant Mike Andrew Staff Writers Mike Andrew, Miryam Gordon, Anthony Greer, Shaun Knittel, Albert Rodriguez, James Whitely Contributing Writers

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

Classifieds Mike Andrew and Rick McKinnon Photographers

Nate Gowdy, Joseph P. Herron, Shaun Knittel, James Whitely National Advertising Rep. Rivendell Media (212) 242-6863 Website Designer Barry Thorsness/Digital Team Works Seattle Gay News is published weekly by Frogs and Ink, Inc. © 2013, Frogs and Ink, Inc., all rights reserved. Reprints by permission.

Publication of names, photographs or likenesses of any person, organization, event or business in this publication cannot be taken as any indication of the sexual orientation of the person, organization, event or business.

Opinions expressed in bylined articles, columns, and letters are those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the staff or management of this paper.

Seattle Gay News welcomes unsolicited material, including letters to the editor, but reserves the right to edit or reject material. All rights revert to authors upon publication.

We assume no liability for loss or damage of materials, solicited or not. We invite feedback, please write.

And please play safe.

It is our policy that no money shall be refunded if you choose to cancel your subscription or ad. However, credit towards any size ad will be given for the balance owed. No exceptions.

In Loving Memory Of

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

Visit us online www.sgn.org

RAISE OUR FLAG! I am writing this because I saw that you published an article over the summer about the Space Needle here in Seattle refusing to raise the rainbow flag during Pride month [“Flag flap: Space Needle says no to Pride flag this year,” June 22]. The Space Needle spokespeople stated that they would not be hoisting any flags besides the American flag on a regular basis and that is why they

about other denominations, I can point to many times in my own denomination where courageous stands have been taken by my colleagues. In 1991 my Annual Conference (similar to a Catholic diocese) supported the establishment of “Strength for the Journey,” whereby persons with full-blown AIDS can spend several days in a retreat setting where they are completely free to be who they are.

Their language is not censored nor are they

Since I can’t possibly see how football is more important than human rights, I see this as a direct affront to the LGBT community and everyone who supports the fact that LGBT people are allowed to be out and proud in our city. would not be raising the rainbow flag during the most joyous time of the year.

The problem I am having is that they have raised the Seahawks’ “12th Man” flag on the Space Needle, as of last week. They invited several famous Seattle musicians to the event, which indicates that they planned it well in advance, rather than it just being some spur-of-the-moment thing they decided to do because our team is doing so well this season.

Since I can’t possibly see how football is more important than human rights, I see this as a direct affront to the LGBT community and everyone who supports the fact that LGBT people are allowed to be out and proud in our city. I appreciate that the Seahawks are doing so well, but I just don’t get why no one has said anything publicly about what is happening. I e-mailed the Space Needle when I heard that they raised the flag, but have not heard back to date.

confronted with attempts to “convert” them.

While daily worship is offered, there is no attempt to coerce retreaters to participate.

And most don’t. Workshops are offered that help retreaters talk about AIDS with medical professionals. And they are staffed by men and women who are chosen for their ability to listen and to love.

Unfortunately, the United Methodist Church Quadrennial Conference delegates have continued to vote to retain a clause in the Discipline which states that “homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching” and until recently forbid the use

of funds, buildings, and pastors to support anything that might be interpreted as supporting homosexuality. However, change is coming. At the most recent General Conference in Tampa, 15 bishops stepped out of line and told pastors and laity that the antiGay use of scripture does not support mention in the Discipline and that pastors who wish to marry, use church facilities, and promote the full inclusion of GLBT folk in the life and ministry of the church will be supported by them and defended in case we are put on trial.

Recently a TV ad supporting Referendum [74] featured the Seattle-area UMC bishop among other religious leaders. His letter to the churches is a strong condemnation of anti-Gay feelings of church members. Over 20 congregations have voted to be fully reconciling with and fully accepting of GLBT people in membership and leadership in their churches. One congregation, Tacoma First United Methodist Church, has actively supported the GLBT community and the inclusion of GLBT persons in church leadership.

There are many more examples I could mention, but suffice it to say that one among many reasons the United Methodist Church has seriously declined in membership is our mandate from founder John Wesley that “there is no holiness but social holiness.”

I urge SGN to give recognition to not only those actions in Christian churches that deny the full humanity of GLBTs, but also to the actions by congregations and pastors who stand alongside our GLBT sisters and brothers in the drive for full equality.

The Rev. Thomas Martin Tacoma

Chelsea Alexander Seattle ACCENTUATE THE POSITIVE Several recent editions of SGN have featured articles about Roman Catholic officials and so-called evangelical Christian groups in such a way that it is easy to assume that all Christians are rabidly antiGay. This is regretful because several mainline Protestant church pastors and leaders have put themselves on the line in support of the GLBT community.

While I am a retired United Methodist pastor and cannot speak authoritatively

January 18, 2013

Seattle Gay News

3

Local news Boeing rejects latest union offer

Larry Peter Oakland March 24, 1941 – December 29, 2012

tive Court member, helping raise funds for numerous charities.

SPEEA still insists on equal benefits for same-sex spouses

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer SPEEA, the union that represents Boeing’s engineers and technical workers, has proposed to end tortuous contract negotiations with the company by extending its current contract for four years.

Union officials presented what they described as their “best and final” offer at talks

person Bill Dugovich told SGN. “When it says ‘spouse’ in the contract, it means samesex spouses just as much as opposite-sex spouses.”

Boeing surprised union negotiators and outraged the public when company officials told SPEEA representatives on November 21 that they did not consider themselves obligated to provide the same pension benefits for same-sex spouses as they do for

“At this point, we should move forward with the items upon which we can agree, and leave the status quo in place for the remaining items.” with Boeing negotiators on January 16, but the union said the company rejected the offer the next day.

“These negotiations have been going on for more than a year,” said Tom McCarty, SPEEA president and Professional Team member. “At this point, we should move forward with the items upon which we can agree, and leave the status quo in place for the remaining items.”

SPEEA officials have said that a strike is “likely” if the company does not come to terms.

opposite-sex spouses. The company has since walked back its opposition, but has not indicated it will, in fact, treat same-sex survivors equally.

Pension survivor benefits ensure that Boeing employees can provide a secure retirement for their spouses even if they are no longer living.

SPD

nity’s views.”

DREAMLINER GROUNDED In a statement, SPEEA said it made its offer in hopes of “allow[ing] the company and its technical workforce to focus on reaffirming confidence and proving the 787 is the reliable and safe product employees know NO RETREAT ON PENSIONS Union officials say they are still insisting it to be.”

The FAA ordered all Boeing 787 Dreamthat Boeing grant the same pension survivor benefits to same-sex spouses as they offer to liners grounded on January 16 in response to a number of reported systems failures. opposite-sex spouses.

“Spouses are spouses,” SPEEA spokes-

continued from cover

A POLITICAL FOOTBALL? Commission members will be confirmed A QUESTION OF TRUST by the City Council in February, and in May “It’s complicated,” Podlodowski told independent auditor Merrick Bobb – apSGN, “because it’s not just an issue with pointed by a federal judge to monitor comSPD. It’s also an issue with the community. pliance with DOJ recommendations – will We need to restore public trust that the police department is the kind of department we think it is here in Seattle.

“If people don’t think they can trust the police, the police will just not be effective.”

Podlodowski noted that as a City Council member from 1996 through 1999, she wrote the ordinance that established SPD’s Office of Professional Accountability (OPA), to review complaints about police misconduct.

“At the time,” she recalled, “I hoped there present his report. wouldn’t have been a need for this now. It’s “The committee will have to work quicka disservice to every citizen – and frankly to ly,” Podlodowski says, “and in the midst of the men and women of the Police Depart- a mayor’s race.” ment, too.”

Asked if she worried that the commisAs the only openly LGBT member of the sion’s work might be an issue in the already commission, Podlodowski says, “I want our crowded race for mayor, Podlodowski recommunity to be well represented. I want plied that she has tried to distance herself the commission to understand the commu- from all the candidates.

Larry was born to Evelyn and Peter Oakland at Virginia Mason Hospital in Seattle. He grew up in Woodinville, where he learned, among other things, to play the piano. Larry became quite the accomplished pianist. He played for a group known as Galen, traveling the U.S. and living for a time in Chicago, cutting a record in 1969. Larry passed on an opportunity to accompany Julie Miller in the start of her career at Jack McGovern’s Music Hall and instead played for and toured with Janice Ames.

Upon returning home to Seattle he worked at Frederick and Nelson in the record department before moving to Fifth Avenue Records, where he became manager. It was at this time that Larry found the Court of Seattle, The Olympic and Rainier Empire, through their community service work. He became an active member and in 1988 made an unsuccessful run for Emperor. He ran again in 1989 and won the title of Rainier XV. He shared his reign with his Empress, Olympia XIX Crystal Lane, who became the jewel of his heart from Coronation night on. Larry and Crystal were named King and Queen of Hearts Emeritus during their reign. After stepping down Larry remained an ac-

ACE BARTENDER When the record store closed, Larry started bartending at Spags Tavern, where he worked for several years. Larry was the first customer at the opening of C.C. Slaughters North (now C.C. Attle’s), on October 14, 1993, as well as the first customer at C.C. Attle’s in the bar’s present location. A few months later, manager Mark Engleman hired him to work the morning shift. He remained there until he retired in 2004. After retiring Larry worked for a brief time at the Washington State Liquor Store at 12th and Pine and at another store downtown.

Larry continued to volunteer for the Court. He was the Treasurer for more years than most members can remember. If he wasn’t working the door at a pageant or Coronation, he was running the lights and sound, or tending bar.

It was upon returning home from Coronation 2005 that Larry suffered several strokes and was found on the floor by his longtime friend and roommate Scott. After spending several weeks in Swedish Hospital, Larry was transferred to a care facility. He moved into his new home at Providence Heritage House and from his massive video collection was able to run a much-enjoyed movie night for fellow residents. He was also able to attend Court functions and thoroughly enjoyed seeing his friends. One of his greatest highlights was a recent trip to Alaska to see his brother and attend Alaska’s Coronation, a trip he enjoyed relating to his friends at Providence and in the Court.

Larry is survived by his three brothers – Myron and his wife, Mary, of Bellevue; Dennis, of Palmer, Alaska; and Ron and his wife, Jackie, of Moses Lake – and numerous nieces and nephews.

Larry will be missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. A memorial is planned for January 27th at C.C. Attle’s, 1701 E. Olive Way, from 3 to 6 p.m.

“What I’ve done,” she explained, “when candidates have asked me for my support, I’ve told them I will not do anything that would hinder our ability to be objective. I hope this will not be a political football – it’s too important.”

After their confirmation next month, commission members plan a retreat “to spend

the commission are Claudia D’Allegri, vice president of behavioral health for Sea Mar Community Health Centers; Lisa Daugaard, deputy director of the Defender Association; Kate Joncas, president and CEO of the Downtown Seattle Association; Bill Hobson, executive director of the Downtown Emergency Services Center; Jay Hollingsworth, John T. Williams Organizing Committee; Joseph Kessler, Seattle Police Department captain; Diane Narasaki, executive director of the Asian Counseling & Referral Service; John Page, Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion and program coordinator at the Defender Association’s Racial Disparity Project; Marcel Purnell, Youth Undoing Institutional Racism; Jennifer Shaw, deputy director of the ACLU time together, to understand each other’s of Washington; Kevin Stuckey, officer of backgrounds and opinions,” Podlodowski the Seattle Police Department; Kip Tokuda, notes. former state representative for the 37th Leg“We don’t necessarily know each other islative District; the Rev. Harriett Walden, that well, but I think we’re all committed to co-founder of Mothers for Police Accountsolving the problem.” ability; and the Rev. Aaron Williams, senior pastor at Mount Zion Baptist Church.

MEMBERSHIP ROSTER Daugaard and Narasaki will co-chair the Besides Podlodowski, the members of commission.

“If people don’t think they can trust the police, the police will just not be effective.”

Come meet Tim and Matt and join the family.

Go 1605 12th Avenue at Pine, Seattle (In liquor store parking garage.) Seattle Storm!

206-838-6027 or 206-898-4306 4

Seattle Gay News

January 18, 2013

Celebrating 40 Years!

ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION? HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE? DIABETES? NITRATES?

$99 Guaranteed Visit!!

No matter what your physical condition or what you’ve tried in the past, the doctors at Innovative Men’s Health can put together a CUSTOMIZED treatment just for you that really works!

The $99 Guaranteed Visit - See a response from your custom test dose or your visit is FREE! 2 Convenient Locations!

Seattle • (206) 329-2000 • 1001 Broadway Suite 311 Bellevue • (425) 455-1700 • 1940 116th Ave NE

www.InnovativeMen.com

Visit us online www.sgn.org

January 18, 2013

Seattle Gay News

5

Let freedom ring!

The legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King

file photo

done it this way for 30 years, aiming to mobilize all our constituencies every year.”

Gossett has chaired the Celebration Committee for the past 10 years.

“It’s particularly significant in this geographic area, with the county named after him,” Gossett adds.

WORKED WITH GAY MAN Although she hesitates to say what Dr. King would do today, Walden says that we can extrapolate from what he did when he was alive.

“Bayard Rustin worked so closely with Dr. King planning the March on Washington,” she notes, “and everybody knew he was a Gay man. The proof is right there.

“You know,” she continues, “for me Dr. King speaks to 150 years of freedom, from the Emancipation Proclamation to now – all that it’s taken to get us this place.

“Some people want to hold back time, but you can’t hold back freedom.”

A CONTESTED LIFE Dr. King’s legacy is often claimed by diverse political interests that use his reputation to justify their own agenda. In the campaign for marriage equality, this included both pro- and anti-equality groups. Asked if he thought King would have lined up with conservative Christians against same-sex marriage, Gossett replied vehemently, “No ‘A LEGACY AND TRADITION’ way! No way!”

Gossett, whose own history includes lead“Read his biography!” he adds. “Read ership in the Black Student Union at Gar-

“I’m not comfortable saying what people would do if they were alive today, but Dr. King challenged everybody to open their hearts and minds to see all people as creatures of God, and that includes the LGBT community.”

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer “Let Freedom Ring!” is the theme for this year’s Martin Luther King Jr. celebration in Seattle. After historic victories for marriage equality in three states, including this one, it’s a theme that should resonate with the

LGBT community.

MLK Celebration Committee Chair Larry Gossett, also president of the King County Council, likes to point out what he calls the “unique character” of Seattle’s celebration – one of the country’s largest and oldest.

“It’s the only one organized from the grassroots up,” Gossett tells SGN. “We’ve

power of innovation will fuel the next wave of job growth in Washington. continued from cover Make no mistake: our top priority today, tomorrow, and every day for the next four towards equality, fairness and justice across years, is jobs. We must build a working all of Washington.

Washington, capable of sustained economic […] leadership in a rapidly changing world.

I look forward to a true partnership with […]

Senate Majority leader Rodney Tom and Minority Leader Ed Murray, and with House Speaker Frank Chopp and Minority Leader Richard DeBolt.

I want us to collaborate early and often on a legislative agenda that benefits all of Washington. I want to work with every member of the Legislature too. Our economy draws its strength from a marketplace of ideas, and so should our state. […]

inslee

ECONOMIC CHALLENGES I have a new job, a new vantage point, and the world looks much different. A once vibrant and growing state economy was brought low by the gross irresponsibility by those on Wall Street. As a result we have suffered four years of recession, with almost 300,000 people in Washington looking for work.

Too many of our families are on the brink of losing their home. Parents lie awake at night wondering how they can provide for their children’s future.

But we remain an optimistic state, a visionary state, and an innovative state. Time has not dimmed and the recession has not diminished our thirst for innovation and our talent for technological growth. We are the most creative, entrepreneurial group of businessmen and women, scientists, educators, and workers on the planet. […]

So now we must go forward, with both high ambition and a recognition that the

6

Seattle Gay News

what he said, what he was about! He would have been leading the effort. He would not have been with these conservative pastors.

“You can’t fight for the liberation of Black people and then support discrimination against Gays and Lesbians.”

The Rev. Harriett Walden, founder of Mothers for Police Accountability and acting pastor at Sojourner Truth Unity Fellowship Church, agrees.

“I’m not comfortable saying what people would do if they were alive today,” she tells SGN, “but Dr. King challenged everybody to open their hearts and minds to see all people as creatures of God, and that includes the LGBT community.

“He was a prophet for our times, who brought a message of love. If you look at his writing, he really believed in love – and equal rights.”

field High School and the UW, also refers back to the history of the African-American struggle for equality.

“If you look at the Stonewall Rebellion,” Gossett says, “that was influenced and inspired by the Black Liberation Movement.

SNCC, before they split up, spoke out for Gay and Lesbian equality, and the Black Panther Party always did.

“It’s a legacy and tradition firmly established by MLK.”

bring disruptive change to Olympia, starting with the very core of how we do business. […]

[This] effort is about more than measurement. It’s about instituting a culture shift that will endure well beyond my administration. Moving forward, all state agencies will be rooted in the same three principles: First, we will measure success by the re-

state employee health systems, and engage providers, carriers, and community clinics to find innovative payment models and health-care delivery systems that incentivize quality over quantity.

Effectively implementing the Affordable Care Act will save us money, by removing the hidden tax of hundreds of dollars paid monthly by all of our state’s insured citizens. We can do this, for the health of our family and the health of our economy. When we make our health-care system more efficient, we lower the cost of doing business in our state.

The states that get this right will have a clear advantage in recruiting and retaining the jobs of tomorrow. This session, we must make sure Washington gets this right, first.

We must also protect the quality and choice that we expect from a health-care system that works. Washington women need the freedom and privacy to make the health-care decisions that are best for themselves and their families. […]

“Washington is a state that embraces all people for who they are. A state that allows all to love who they will. A state that is never content with today, but is always leading the world in inventing tomorrow.”

FOCUS ON 7 INDUSTRIES During the campaign I put out a plan to get Washington back to work that grew to over 100 points of action.

My plan focuses on job growth in seven industry clusters: aerospace, life sciences, military, agriculture, information technology, clean energy technology, and the maritime trades.

These clusters represent both the present and the future key drivers of economic growth and job creation in our state. We must support innovators in these areas with incentives to take risks and bring ideas from dream to reality. […]

Since the recession, the debate over the state budget seems to be stuck in the movie Groundhog Day. We have the same arguments, and we revisit the same untenable options. It’s time we made it to a new day.

Today we begin a multi-year effort to

January 18, 2013

Seattle’s 31st annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration takes place Monday, January 21, at Garfield High School, 400 23rd Avenue (at Jefferson) in the Central District. The event begins with workshops on various issues at 9:30 a.m., followed by a rally at 11 and march at 12:30. For more information, visit www.mlkseattle.org.

sults we produce, not the money we put in.

Second, we will know our customer and what they value. Third, every agency will adopt a unique process for continual im‘LET’S GET TO WORK’ provement that engages our state employWe don’t deny science in Washington, we ees. Change is coming to Olympia, and I want all state employees to be active part- embrace it. We do not follow technological innovation, we lead it. And we will not pass ners in it. up a golden opportunity to create jobs. […] […]

Washington is a state that embraces all IMPROVING HEALTH CARE [The move for change] runs directly people for who they are. A state that allows through health-care reform. This means all to love who they will. A state that is never investing in preventative care, and align- content with today, but is always leading the ing incentives with patients to encourage world in inventing tomorrow. A state whose very name commits itself to the preservation healthy lifestyle choices.

King County is already doing this, and it of its own beauty for its own grandchildren, is working. We’ll improve the health of all and its own great-grandchildren: The Everof us in Washington, as we move from “sick green State.

Thank you. Now let’s get to work. care” to the true health-care system we deserve.

We need to leverage our Medicaid and

Celebrating 40 Years!

gay seattle continued from cover

ISABELLA DE LA ROSA MISS GAY SEATTLE 2013 For the next 12 months, Isabella De La Rosa will wear the crown and sash as Miss Gay Seattle 2013. Isabella, 32, told Seattle Gay News it “felt great” to win and that “it made me feel that all the work I put into this

creased the magnifying glass, but I know that being who I am will demonstrate that our Latino LGBT community is strong, united, and most of all – a family.”

“I would like to thank everyone that attended the 49th Annual Mr. and Miss Gay Seattle pageant,” concluded Isabella De La Rosa. “It means a lot to me that I was able to showcase my abilities and that allowed you to elect me as your new Miss Gay Seattle.

Gracias!”

nonstop in December.”

The process, in order to win, is meticulous. Contestants have to campaign for votes, not unlike lawmakers and the president. In doing so, Henriquez told SGN he met genuine people from different Gay communities.

“It sure was an amazing way to network outside of Seattle,” he admits. “I even received support from different bars and shop owners around Capitol Hill. Attendees gave

be intrigued to find out how much I had changed.”

He incorporated the weight loss into his performance. “It began with my own words: ‘I never knew what it meant to love myself until I had to fight. I used to be 277 pounds and I am proud to say I have lost 95.

I am strong because of my past. I have shed sweat, tears, and even blood. And these are the layers I once wore ...” Each set of clothes he removed on stage, he once wore. nate gowdy / seattle gay news

Josue Henriquez and Isabella De La Rosa being crowned Mr. and Miss Gay Seattle at Neighbours on January 12

finally paid off, not only for me but for my community.”

Being a co-host at the annual Latino Pageant, Isabella says she has a great respect for the amount of time and effort that goes into pageants, small or big.

“The number of people that turned out to this event was impressive,” Isabella said, referring to the more than 300 in attendance Saturday night.

“As a contestant, it was a rollercoaster of emotions,” she continued. “The start was scary, reminiscent of my first pageant where I only got runner-up.”

“But once the pageant started, the fear became adrenaline, running from the stage to the changing area to change my hair, jewelry, outfits, and making sure everything was in place – I didn’t want a wardrobe malfunction while on stage,” said Isabella. “The end was the nail-biter. I was running against two great people that in their own way brought their uniqueness. In my mind doubt started: ‘Did I do everything I could do? Could I have done something different?’”

To prepare for this competition Isabella said she first had to conquer a barrier. “Most people don’t know this, but I’m a bit of a shy person and going up to new people and starting a conversation was challenging,” she said. “During the campaign period I worked hard and finally can say that barrier is no longer an obstacle for me.”

Isabella said she hopes to continue “the great work that DonnaTella Howe and Alex Mentele did,” but this time “getting the Latino LGBT community more involved.”

“I’ve always kept in mind, with or without a title, that I would do my best to represent the Latino community with dignity,” she said. “Winning this title has indeed in-

JOSUE HENRIQUEZ MR. GAY SEATTLE 2013 At just 22-years-old, Josue (pronounced ho-sway) Henriquez ran for, and won, Mr. Gay Seattle 2013 – the first title he’s ever competed for.

me compliments and hugs. Everyone I talked to reassured me this is what I want to do.

I want to represent our community.”

“I did not know there was a big Latino Gay community,” said the new Mr. Gay Washington. “I realized I want to bridge the gap and bring our community together.

“But once the pageant started, the fear became adrenaline, running from the stage to the changing area to change my hair, jewelry, outfits, and making sure everything was in place.The end was the nailbiter. I was running against two great people that in their own way brought their uniqueness. In my mind doubt started: ‘Did I do everything I could do?

Could I have done something different?’”

There is no doubt about it, Henriquez had his work cut out for him – this year’s contestants for Mr. Gay Seattle were known faces in the Seattle nightlife scene. But in the end, it was his enduring story of weight loss and life change that put him over the top, allowing him the victory.

When he realized that he had won, Henriquez told SGN that he felt “a feeling of accomplishment and relief.”

“I did not think I could win the title because out of all the candidates I was the least known,” he admits. “I had wanted to run for the title since last summer. I began my preparation in September. I wanted to look the best, so I began to hit the gym almost daily.

I even challenged myself to go for 30 days

Visit us online www.sgn.org

I also have an inspirational story, which I hope I’m able to share to anyone I meet. I want to be my genuine self. Anyone who meets me will have an extraordinary impression from Gay Seattleites. I am kind and sweet at heart, and I plan to keep these qualities.”

To prepare for the pageant, he began to work out at the gym.

“I lost an extra 15 pounds on top of my original goal,” Henriquez told SGN. “I knew I wanted to share my incredible weight loss.

At the beginning of November, I began to think of my approach for the competition. I chose to leave some mystery to my campaign ad – I used a picture when I was 277 pounds. Anyone who read it, would

January 18, 2013

He chose the song, “The Fighter” by Gym Class Heroes for his performance because of the background story about the song.

When Henriquez was at the gym working out earlier last year, the song came on the radio. “As it played, the message behind the song moved me, and I teared up,” he said. “I want to inspire people with my life. I want for anyone who meets me to leave thinking: ‘This one’s a fighter.’”

“I once wore size XXL shirts and size 40 jeans,” he continued. “I now can fit into small-size shirts and size 31 jeans. I am currently weighing 182 pounds, and I still plan on toning and continuing my weight-loss journey. It’s an ongoing battle I will never give up.”

Henriquez says he was glad the Latino community felt safe to come out and support the pageant.

“I will watch my actions carefully,” he said. “I am held at a higher standard because I am now representing the Seattle LGBT community. I will be visiting other Gay cities, so rest assured I will act with poise and respect. Because the Imperial Sovereign Court of Seattle is a nonprofit organization, I am also responsible to make a difference in our community. I am to hold fundraisers to help a cause I support. At this moment I’m unsure which organization I will choose, but stay tuned as I am ready to tackle my new title.”

Weight loss is also an emotional learning experience, said Henriquez.

“I began to lose weight to feed my pride and ego. I slowly began to realize I needed to change my perspective and grow to be a better person. I now want to be the best that I can be. And throughout the process, positively impact someone’s life.”

Seattle Gay News

7

“Best Price in Town!”

$99 - Includes Authorization and Card - up to 1 year.

Doctors available Tuesday 2-6, Thursday 11-3, Friday 11-6, and Sunday 12-4

4021 Aurora Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98103

206-632-4021

www.medicinemanwellness.com On-Line verification available

8

Seattle Gay News

January 18, 2013

Celebrating 40 Years!

national news

Donn Bruns

‘Equality State’ gets serious about equality Marriage and domestic-partner bills introduced in Wyoming

Ruth Ann Petroff told the Jackson Hole Daily they would prefer to pass the marriage bill – HB 169 – but were willing to debate Two new bills in the Wyoming legislature civil unions as well. would allow same-sex couples in the state GAY POPULATION GROWING to marry or form civil unions. Democratic Gingery is chair of the Judiciary CommitRep. Cathy Connolly of Laramie filed the tee, which will be the first to debate the bills. legislation on January 14.

House Bill 169 would change the state’s He said the issue poses a legal problem that definition of marriage to say that marriage state officials need to resolve.

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer

“The population of Gay couples in the state is increasing, and the law is not very clear about what rights they have.” is a civil contract between “two natural persons.” Current law says that marriage is a contract between “a male and a female person.”

House Bill 168 would create a legal framework for domestic partnerships, allowing same-sex couples to “obtain the rights, responsibilities, protections, and legal benefits provided in Wyoming for immediate family members.”

The law would consider a member of a domestic partnership to be a spouse under all state rules and laws.

THIRD TIME THE CHARM? Connolly, who was first elected in 2008, introduced similar bills in 2009 and 2011, but they did not pass.

The measure has the backing of at least two Republicans in a legislature controlled by the GOP. Republicans outnumber Democrats in the state House by a margin of 52 to 8, and in the Senate by 26 to 4.

Republican Reps. Keith Gingery and

“The population of Gay couples in the state is increasing, and the law is not very clear about what rights they have,” he said.

HB 169 would plug same-sex marriage into the state’s existing framework for marriage, Gingery said. It simply would open the rights afforded to opposite-sex couples to Gay and Lesbian couples as well.

“Legally speaking, I would prefer the Gay marriage bill,” he said. “We already know how it works.”

IT’S NOT ABOUT RELIGION Gingery, who is Catholic, says the question of whether to allow same-sex couples to get married in Wyoming is a civil issue, not a religious one.

“We need to separate the religious issue from the civil function of society,” he said.

“It’s a basic human rights and fairness issue,” Petroff added. “It’s a basic constitutional issue. There should just be no reason why same-sex couples shouldn’t have the same rights as everyone else.”

Representative Cathy Connolly

Audrey Tiernan / AP

Strange bedfellows Eliot Spitzer’s madam runs for mayor of New York

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer Kristin Davis, who grabbed headlines in 2008 when she revealed she ran the prostitution service patronized by New York’s then-governor Eliot Spitzer, was endorsed by the Queens Libertarian Party as a candidate for mayor of New York City on January 12.

The Queens chapter is reportedly the largest Libertarian group in New York City, and Davis has described herself as “a natural Libertarian.”

Before running one of New York’s highest-priced sex businesses, Davis was a hedge-fund manager, and allegedly used her connections to attract blue-chip call-girl clients like Spitzer and International Monetary Fund head Dominique Strauss-Kahn.

Davis claims she fingered Spitzer, leading the FBI to get a federal wiretap warrant that led to the governor’s downfall. He resigned his office in March 2008, amid calls for his impeachment.

New York City mayoral candidate and former madam Kristin Davis

RAN FOR GOVERNOR In 2010, Davis ran for governor of New York on the Anti-Prohibition Party line, but came dead last with only 20,000 votes out

of more than 4.7 million cast.

As the standard-bearer of the Libertarian Party, Davis says she will repeal many of the “nanny state” initiatives of current Mayor Michael Bloomberg, especially his restrictions on soda sales.

“Kristin’s campaign is not a joke or a publicity stunt,” her campaign website says.

“This is a campaign about real reform. New York is becoming a Nanny State ruled by legislators who believe that they can make personal and private decisions for its citizens.”

Davis also promises to use her hedge-fund experience to monitor financial transactions.

“I recognize that hedge funds are a large part of the financial market and have the capability to influence market conditions,” she told Absolute Return website.

“As mayor, I would want to work with the hedge funds to ensure compliance with SEC rules and to find a level of transparency that works for the funds and their investors to increase trust of the funds and markets.”

The odds-on favorite to succeed Bloomberg is New York City Council Speaker Christine Quinn. If Quinn is elected, she will be the first openly Lesbian mayor of New York.

Rich Full-Bodied Cafes Savory Homestyle Soups & Sandwiches Visit us online www.sgn.org

January 18, 2013

Seattle Gay News

9

by James Whitely SGN Staff Writer Juan Alonso and Roger Stuckly have been together for 11 years, and the two decided to tie the knot on January 4. Alonso, a native of Cuba, and Stuckly, originally from Texas, met at a Capitol Hill bar, The Cuff.

We met on December 7th and we had our first date on January 4th, because he went home for Christmas,” Alonso told SGN. About three months later, Alonso moved to Miami for a year and the two maintained a long-distance relationship during that time, making several visits back and forth.

Knowing they liked each other, the two played it by ear. On one of Alonso’s later trips back to Seattle, they looked at apartments for sale and decided to move in together.

‘WE MAKE EACH OTHER LAUGH’ Alonso, a well-known local artist, said his husband keeps him “grounded.”

“Some people might consider it [the relationship] pretty boring, but for us it’s kind of quirky. I think the best thing that happens on a daily basis is that we make each other laugh a lot,” Alonso told SGN. “I think people would be surprised how much we are laughing and making jokes to each other.

courtesy roger stuckly and juan alonso

Weddings Juan Alonso and Roger Stuckly “We’re one of those rare couples – I can count the times that we’ve argued on less than one hand,” Alonso told SGN. “There’s very little drama.”

Alonso said that the two of them have very similar core values, and he thinks they balance out each other. He’s more outgoing, while Stuckly grounds him – otherwise, Alonso thinks he’d be trying to do way too much, overextending himself. Stuckly, he said, helps him to take a breather and keep perspective.

“We both are firm in our convictions and the longer we’ve been together, the more similar we’ve become,” Alonso said.

“He doesn’t make art, but I think he’s sort of come to appreciate it more. My Christmas present this year was a painting from an artist that we both really like.”

INSPIRED BY BIRTHPLACE Alonso is a self-taught artist who’s been living in Seattle for 30 years and making art for over 25, primarily painting, drawing, and photography. One of the biggest inspirations he’s had throughout his career is his birthplace, Havana, Cuba. You’ll see his work all around town – he’s on display at SeaTac airport, Century Link Field, and various light-rail stations. He won a Mayor’s Arts Award in 2010.

Roger Stuckly (l) and Juan Alonso

“I think everybody gets inspired by where they come from, but [Havana] has always been a big part of my inspiration,” Alonso told SGN. Some of his body of work is quite “literal” in its Cuban influence, from things like Carnival, Cuban music, or the wrought-iron gates from his father’s shop. Over the years, however, Alonso has found his style becoming increasingly more abstract.

“Last year, after 45 years, I went back to Havana. I hadn’t been there since I left when I was nine – coming back there has put more color back into my work,” he said.

Some of the crumbling buildings of Havana, and the weathered and fading color of those buildings, he found “beautiful.” He produced a series of 50 photographs of them upon his return to Seattle.

Alonso said that Stuckly didn’t go with him to Havana because the two weren’t sure how it would go.

“This was the first time I had gone back.

I had no idea what to expect. I didn’t know how different it would be. It ended up being a really beautiful, wonderful trip,” Alonso

told SGN. “My sister, my nieces and nephews, they all want him to go next time.”

HELPING MAKE HISTORY The two married at the courthouse in downtown Seattle on January 4, the 11th anniversary of their first date.

“We went with another couple that are good friends of ours, a Lesbian couple, they’ve been together for 28 years. It was the four of us and one other friend who took some pictures. It was very nice,” Alonso said.

“It was surprisingly different than what I thought,” he continued. “I didn’t think it was going to be emotional, and it was. We honestly thought of it as ‘let’s just make it legal after 11 years,’ but actually when we were there and standing by the judge, it kind of dawned on us that not only were we making this legal commitment to each other, but we were also making history.”

Alonso has a studio in Pioneer Square and participates in the Pioneer Square Art Walk every month. Learn more about his art at www.juanalonso.info.

Cascadia by Juan Alonso (acrylic on wood panel, 2012)

Come meet Tim and Matt and join the family.

Go 1605 12th Avenue at Pine, Seattle (In liquor store parking garage.) Seattle Storm!

206-838-6027 or 206-898-4306 10 Seattle Gay News

January 18, 2013

Celebrating 40 Years!

Visit us online www.sgn.org

January 18, 2013

Seattle Gay News 11

12 Seattle Gay News

January 18, 2013

Celebrating 40 Years!

Dennis Gracia

Hair Stylist (206) 701- 4784

Visit us online www.sgn.org

January 18, 2013

Seattle Gay News 13

14 Seattle Gay News

January 18, 2013

Celebrating 40 Years!

Lee Arthurs and Jake King make it official courtesy Lee Arthurs

As the relationship developed between Arthurs and King, an employee of Rudy’s Barbershop, it became apparent that they were a perfect match. “We found we had more in common than not, and we discovered that our values were very much in line in terms of marriage and family and we wanted that for ourselves, despite what society said,” states Arthurs.

When the couple decided to seal their commitment, they wanted it to matter. “It was important, though, that it be legally recognized,” declares Arthurs. “Initially we had planned a ceremony that for various reasons never panned out, but once leg-

apparent change in the air. We felt confident that the tide was turning. Even those that we know who are Republican felt, that in terms of Gay marriage, it was a human rights issue versus a political or religious one.”

Gay marriage was never an issue for either of the newlyweds’ families, who knew of Arthurs’ and King’s sexual orientation for a long time. “I think it helps that we’ve each been “out” to our families from a very early age, so by now the whole ‘being Gay’ thing is truly a moot point and is no longer a definition of who we are,” explains Arthurs.

“We are their sons, not their Gay sons. For us, marriage is just a natural progression of a

“We found we had more in common than not, and we discovered that our values were very much in line in terms of marriage and family and we wanted that for ourselves, despite what society said.”

Lee Arthurs (l) and Jake King

by Albert Rodriguez SGN A&E Writer Among the couples who braved cold temperatures awaiting the first batch of marriage licenses to be issued to same-sex couples were Lee Arthurs and Jake King. Originally from the Midwest – Arthurs is from Wisconsin, King from Illinois – a change of scenery and pace brought them to Seattle, but fate and true love brought them together.

A MUSICAL MATCH Music played a role in the couple’s initial encounter. “We met randomly while out with friends,” says Arthurs, who works in real estate. “Jake was playing songs on the jukebox which fit my musical tastes to a “T” and I kept thinking to myself I had to meet him. But because I generally find it hard to approach people, I did the phone number hand-off with a quick ‘Hello’ and went home. To my surprise, he called later in the week, and the rest is history.”

islation started moving forward, we found ourselves in a position of discussing moving ahead with our initial plans. When we learned of the opportunity at [Seattle] First Baptist Church [which hosted a free group wedding ceremony last month], we jumped on the chance to be a part of it because, though neither of us are very religious, it offered us something close to how we were raised and what we expected a wedding should feel like. It was quite an honor to be a part of that experience.”

FAITH IN THE VOTERS While some couples nervously kept their eyes on election polls and early voting results for official passage of marriage equality, Arthurs and King were confident it would sail to victory. “We had strong faith in the voters of the state of Washington,” says Arthurs. “You could sense that, especially in King County among our many friends and co-workers, that there was an

relationship and we are extremely fortunate to be supported by our families who believe in this right.”

‘GAMUT OF EMOTIONS’ As any couple there can attest, waiting in line for the first same-sex marriage licenses to be issued was as exciting as it was historical. Arthurs recalls that experience with a laugh, “Honestly? Exhausting! We ran the gamut of emotions that night. Ultimately we were simply excited to be taking part in such a historic moment and no matter how long the wait seemed or how tired we were, by the time we got our license we kept reminding each other of how long it took our community to get to this point and just how thankful we were. All night we met such amazing people who shared their own journeys with us and found commonality with their hopes and dreams, and at the root of it all was love.

Love. How beautifully simple. It was very moving.”

by Bruce Harrell Seattle City Council The passage of Referendum 74 will be remembered as a remarkable turning point in our State’s history – the hard work of fighting for love and equality finally realized. I could not have been prouder of our voters for supporting all of Washington’s families and recognizing the beauty in the joining of

electbruceharrell.com

An unforgettable day at City Hall The day began early, but with smiles everywhere. Dozens of volunteers and hundreds of supporters gathered to make this long-awaited day special for the many couples who had to wait much too long to be legally recognized in their tireless commitments to each other – couples of five, 18, and 34-plus years together. It was both inspiring and humbling to see so many happy couples in love.

Often times, people think of City Hall as a place of conflict – a place people go to lobby positions and advocate outcomes – but December 9 was a day of pure celebration. two lives together in marriage.

On December 9, 2012, the promise of marriage equality was fulfilled at City Hall.

One hundred thirty-eight new beginnings witnessed, and the hopes and dreams of committed couples in Seattle brought to fruition. Often times, people think of City Hall as a place of conflict – a place people go to lobby positions and advocate outcomes – but December 9 was a day of pure celebration. It reminded me of the real purpose of our City Hall: to bring people together.

SUPPORTIVE ATMOSPHERE I know marriage equality had (and still has) its opponents, but I don’t know how opponents could deny their friends and neighbors the opportunity to share in the happiness and commitment of marriage when they could see for themselves the impact of a day like the 9th. The argument that marriage equality weakens “traditional” marriage couldn’t be further from the truth.

My wife and I felt stronger in our bond, be-

Visit us online www.sgn.org

Bruce Harrell

ing surrounded by other couples celebrating the strength of theirs. It was an atmosphere that was both supportive and empowering for all loving families.

The wedding celebrations at City Hall reminded me of our commitment to one another as residents of Seattle. We celebrate our joys and triumphs together, and injustice

to one is injustice to all. There was an overwhelming sense of joy and optimism in City Hall that we don’t see every day, but which we must work to see more often. Our future as a city is brighter when we celebrate love.

December 9, 2012, was a beautiful day my wife and I will never forget.

January 18, 2013

Seattle Gay News 15

northwest news

Lambert is best friend, and charismatic writSEATTLE VOLLEYBALL CLUB – er, Rose McAleese.

WINTER 2013 SEASON The Winter 2013 Season runs through SEATTLE TENNIS ALLIANCE – March. For complete details, including SUNDAY SOCIAL DOUBLES schedule, locations and costs, visit www.se& BRUNCH attlevolleyballclub.com.

On Sunday, January 20, at 10:30 a.m., at the Amy Yee Tennis Center (2000 MarHEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH tin Luther King, Jr. Way S.), Seattle Tennis JANUARY 15-27 Alliance will be hosting their Sunday SoAT THE MOORE Seattle Theatre Group and Balagan The- cial Doubles. Cost: $11 members, $14 non atre present Hedwig and the Angry Inch at members. RSVP required. www.seattletenthe historic Moore Theatre (1932 2nd Ave. nisalliance.org. at Virginia St.), January 17-27, with preMLK DAY RALLY & MARCH – view performances on January 15 and 16.

“LET FREEDOM RING!” Directed by Ian Bell, Hedwig and the AnOn Monday, January 21, workshops 9:30 gry Inch is the story of an East Berlin born rock-and-roll-goddess Hedwig Schmidt, a.m.-11 a.m., rally 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., a botched sex change, stolen music and a march 12:30 p.m., at Garfield High School love affair with an American GI. Rising star (23rd Ave. & E. Jefferson St.), join the MarJerick Hoffer (most recently seen in the role tin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Committee of Angel in the 5th Avenue production of for their annual MLK Day Rally & March.

For more information, visit www.mlkseRENT) portrays Hedwig as she recounts her outrageous life story as the lead singer in a attle.org or call 206-296-1002 or 206-296sleazy lounge act, backed by her rock-and- 0321. roll band “The Angry Inch.”

LGBTQ YOUTH BASKETBALL Hoffer (Hedwig) has also been seen on On Tuesday, January 22, from 6:30 p.m.stage at Balagan (Spring Awakening), BookIt Repertory Theatre (Red Ranger Came 8:30 p.m., at the International District/ChiCalling), and Seattle Shakespeare Company natown Community Center (719 8th Ave. (Threepenny Opera). A recent graduate of S.), Seattle Parks and Recreation kicks off Cornish College of the Arts, the role of Hed- their FREE LGBTQ Youth basketball prowig is a perfect fit for Hoffer, also known gram for LGBTQ Youth, Queer Youth of to many in Seattle as preeminent drag queen Color, allies and friends, ages 14-19. The chanteuse Jinkx Monsoon, host of the popu- program will meet weekly on Tuesdays.

For more information, contact Randy lar “An Evening at Le Faux” weekly celebrity impersonation show at Julia’s on Broad- Wiger at 206-883-6110 phone/text or email randy.wiger@seattle.gov. way.

Tickets: $17.50-$32.50 (not including SEATTLE GAY & LESBIAN fees) at www.stgpresents.org.

BOOK CLUB – BECOMING A MAN NORDIC LIGHTS The Seattle Gay & Lesbian Book Club FILM FESTIVAL meets every Wednesday from 6-7:15 p.m., JANUARY 18-20 The Nordic Heritage Museum presents at Seattle Area Support Groups Community the Nordic Lights Film Festival, offering an Center (303 17th Ave. E. at E. Thomas St.).

In January, the club is reading Paul immersion into the world of Nordic films, focused on contemporary, award-winning Monette’s National Book Award-winning feature-length films, documentaries and memoir, Becoming A Man. Published in short films from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, 1992, when Monette was 46 and dying of Norway and Sweden presented at the SIFF AIDS, this book is the message he wanted to Film Center at Seattle Center (just north of leave behind for those of us who came after.

On Wednesday, January 30, at 6 p.m.

Key Arena).

The festival will include a documentary sharp, the club will show the documentary: about modern Lesbian culture in Den- Paul Monette: On the Brink of Summer’s End. mark on Sunday, January 20, at 8 p.m.

All GLBTQ folks are welcome to parFor a complete schedule of films and advance ticket purchase, visit www.nordicmu- ticipate in this FREE book club. For more information visit http://faculty.washington. seum.org. edu/swittet/SGLBookClub/.

MARY LAMBERT – “WHAT’S NEXT AFTER 500 TIPS FOR FAT GIRLS MARRIAGE EQUALITY?” – AT FREMONT ABBEY A COMMUNITY CONFERENCE In May of 2012, Lesbian singer-songOn Thursday, January 24, doors at 6 p.m., writer Mary Lambert was contacted by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis to create what program at 6:30 p.m., at Seattle Labor Temcame to be the revolutionary Gay rights hit, ple (2800 1st Ave., Hall 1), please join Pride “Same Love.” Mary Lambert’s contribu- At Work, the Martin Luther King County tion of vocals and writings on “Same Love” Labor Council, and Social Outreach Seattle have been mentioned in The Huffington for a conference to talk about where we go Post, NPR, and XXL. Earlier in 2012, Lam- now that we’ve won marriage equality.

Participating organizations include Sebert performed on the Ellen Show, VH1’s “Big Morning Buzz,” and Sway’s Sirius/ attle LGBTQ Community Development, XM radio show, Shade 45. Lambert has Lambert House, Seattle Pride Foundation, been a performing singer/songwriter and GSBA, Ingersoll Center, Gay City Health spoken word artist in Seattle for six years. Project, LGBTQ Allyship, UNITE HERE She released her debut album in August Local 8, UFCW Local 21, IATSE Local 15, 2011 and received glowing reviews from AFT Washington, and Puget Sound Advolocal press. After performing spoken word cates for Retirement Action.

This will be an opportunity for LGBT for years and winning Seattle’s Grand Slam in 2011, Lambert is proud to announce that activists, community organizations, labor her first book of poetry will be released on organizations, and our allies to meet and Saturday, January 19, at the Fremont Ab- plan for the future. For information, conbey Grand Hall (4272 Fremont Ave. N.), at tact Pride at Work: 206-261-8110, PrideatWork@live.com.

8 p.m. Cost: $10. This is an all-ages event.

The book, titled “500 tips for fat girls” SEATTLE ASIAN AMERICAN takes a vulnerable free-fall into body-imFILM FESTIVAL age, Queer love, the struggles of bi-polarity, JANUARY 25-27 and allowing yourself to occasionally laugh at your darkness. Accompanying Mary

16 Seattle Gay News

January 18, 2013

compiled by Rick McKinnon SGN Staff Writer

to LGBTQ advocacy and equal rights in their community. That can look different depending on where you are and who you are.

They have straight allies who help start Gay Straight Alliances in their schools, LGBTQ students who have organized Queer youth rallies, and older members of the community returning to school after fighting inequality for all their lives. Leadership can take many different forms and Pride Foundation encourages everyone to share their vision with them and apply.

MUSIC OF REMEMBRANCE – For more information and questions, visit SPARKS OF GLORY CONCERT On Saturday, January 26, at 2 p.m., at www.pridefoundation.org or call 800-735Seattle Art Museum’s Plestcheeff Audito- 7287. rium (1st Ave. & University St.), Music of NAMOLI BRENNET Remembrance presents their second Sparks IN CONCERT – of Glory concert-with-commentary, free-toWITH LIVE STREAMING the-public outreach concert featuring Steve BENEFIT FOR LAMBERT HOUSE Reich’s Different Trains and Lori Laitman’s On Friday, February 1, at 7 p.m., Namoli The Seed of Dream. www.musicofrememBrennet, a nationally touring singer/songbrance.org. writer, who happens to be Trans, will perform at Empty Sea Studios (6300 Phinney KNIGHTS OF MANTRA – Ave. N.). Tickets: $12 advance, $15 at the BEGGARS FEAST On Saturday, January 26, doors at 5 p.m., door. For those who would like to watch the dinner at 6 p.m., at the Russian Cultural concert streaming live, viewers can stream Center (704 19th Ave E.), join the Knights the show for $6.99 and $2 from each view of Mantra for their annual Beggars Feast. will go to Lambert House LGBTQ Youth “A Feast to the Royal Family and their Glo- Services Center. www.namolibrennet.com; rious Members and their Glorious Jewels” www.emptysea.com will feature a seven course dinner, including SURVIVING PARTNERS wine, plus an evening of entertainment and On Saturday, February 2, at 10:30 a.m., games. Tickets: $35. www.jetchapterKofM. (email facilitator for South Lake Union locom. cation), SAGE (Services and Advocacy for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender NICOLE GEORGES – Elders) hosts a new group for the LGBT CALLING DR. LAURA community focusing on those who have AT ELLIOTT BAY On Wednesday, January 30, at 7 p.m., El- survived the loss of a partner. It’s a memliott Bay Book Co. (1521 10th Ave.) pres- ber-driven group that will meet for an hour ents Portland artist, activist and ‘zinester of discussion and then an opportunity for Nicole Georges. Her hip and heartfelt new social activities. The group will meet the memoir comic, Calling Dr. Laura, opens first Saturday of each month. For location when Nicole discovers that her presumed- and more information, contact Trish at pthdead father is actually alive, something her roop@eldercareconsulting.info. entire family had kept from her for years.

“OUT OF THE SILENCE” But she’s been keeping something from EXHIBIT IN OLYMPIA them, too: she’s Gay. With a supporting cast FEBRUARY 1-MARCH 31 of friends, girlfriends, rescued dogs, pet “Out of The Silence,” a calligraphic art chickens, and the occasional conservative radio host, Nicole figures out how to con- exhibit that “celebrates diversity, love and front - and come out to - a mother she no understanding” is slated to open in the historic Hotel Olympian (116 Legion Way, longer trusts.

Olympia) on February 1. (An opening reception will be held on February 1 at the PRIDE FOUNDATION & Hotel Olympian’s Urban Onion Restaurant GSBA SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM Since 1993, Pride Foundation, along from 5-8 p.m., with a presentation at 6 p.m. with their partner, the GSBA Scholarship The reception is FREE and open to the pubProgram, have awarded over $4 million in lic.) The exhibit will be on display through scholarships to more than 1,400 students March 31. to support education and leadership develThe exhibit was developed by Sally Penopment for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans- ley, a local Olympia calligrapher, to adgender, Queer (LGBTQ) and straight-ally dress the issues of bullying and hate crimes students. against LGBTQ youth who are committing On their 20th anniversary of supporting suicide at an alarming rate. Thirty-nine caleducation in the community, Pride Founda- ligraphers from across the U.S. and Canada tion encourages students of any age, sexual have donated 60 pieces of art displaying orientation, or gender identity/expression powerful messages that address the issues. living or studying in Alaska, Idaho, MonWhen “Out of The Silence” closes in tana, Oregon, and Washington, who are Olympia at the end of March, the exhibit pursuing any post-secondary education will travel to various venues until the sum(including community college, public or mer of 2014, when the art will be offered for private colleges and universities, trade ap- sale in an online auction. All proceeds from prenticeships, or certificate programs, to ap- the sale of the art, as well as sale of cards ply now. and prints from the exhibit, will go to benAlong with their scholarship partners, efit Pizza Klatch. the Greater Seattle Business AssociaPizza Klatch was started in 2007 betion (GSBA), they offer over 50 different cause of the increasing number of suicides scholarships, but have only one applica- of kids in Thurston County who were Gay tion to complete. A combined total of over or thought to be Gay. Pizza Klatch offers $500,000 will be awarded during this schol- weekly lunchtime support grups for LGarship cycle. The joint application is avail- BTQ youth and their allies. They provide able at www.PrideFoundationScholarship. free pizza, two trained facilitators for each org. The deadline for application is Thurs- group, and a convenient and safe forum for day, January 31, 2013, at 5 p.m. PST. discussion and education. Currently, there The GSBA and Pride Foundation schol- are 11 Pizza Klatch groups in 6 Thurston arships take into account a wide variety of County high schools. Proceeds from this exexperiences and academic levels. All schol- hibit will help the program expand to other arships require that students be committed communities. www.pizzaklatch.org The Seattle Asian American Film Festival will showcase works by Northwest Asian American filmmakers, as well as films from across the country dealing with Asian American people, issues, and themes, including LGBTQ focused films. All screenings will take place at the Wing Luke Museum’s Tateuchi Story Theatre (719 S. King St.). www.seattleaaff.org. The festival is cosponsored by the Pride Foundation.

Celebrating 40 Years!

Weddings By the Sea

Visit us online www.sgn.org

www.oceanshoresweddings.com 206-403-8170 Let us make your wedding day as fun as a day at the beach.

January 18, 2013

Seattle Gay News 17

health and medicine

Penny wise, pound foolish?

Generic HIV drugs cheaper but less effective, study says

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer Newly released clinical trial data suggest that generic HIV medications may be less effective than brand-name drugs, although they are substantially cheaper.

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital and Weill Cornell Medical College studied the potential effects of swapping the current single pill Atripla – which combines

AN ETHICAL QUANDARY For doctors treating HIV with increasingly expensive medications while coping with limited government resources, the findings pose a real dilemma.

“The switch from branded to generic antiretrovirals would place us in the uncomfortable position of trading some losses of both quality and quantity of life for a large potential dollar savings,” lead researcher Dr. Rochelle Walensky told RTT Business News.

“This is a trade-off that many of us will find emotionally difficult, and perhaps even ethically impossible, to recommend.” brand-name versions of tenofovir, emtricitabine, and efavirenz – for brand-name tenofovir plus generic forms of the other two drugs.

According to their article in Annals of Internal Medicine, the soon-to-be-available generic HIV drugs could save some $42,500 over the lifetime of a single patient, and might save the U.S. health-care system nearly $1 billion per year.

However, using generics could also result in 4.4 months of life lost per patient lifetime, researchers said.

“This is a trade-off that many of us will find emotionally difficult, and perhaps even ethically impossible, to recommend.”

“Introducing generic medications would be one way for the health service to reduce expenditure, but this must not be at the expense of patient health,” Jason Warriner of the Terrence Higgins Trust, a British HIVcare group, told BBC reporters.

An increase in the use of cheaper generic HIV medications could see more patients with treatment failure, the study warned.

COMPLICATING TREATMENT Clinical trial data suggest generic drugs might be slightly less effective than brandname drugs, but the biggest problem is that they require patients to take three daily pills instead of one, increasing the risk some patients may miss doses.

“Anything that compromises the effectiveness of anti-HIV drugs, or makes people less likely to stick to treatments, would be a false economy,” Warriner warned.

“Currently, ensuring people with HIV are diagnosed and on treatment is a cornerstone of HIV prevention efforts. Effective medications not only keep those living with the

virus fit and well, they also help to keep down new infections.”

In 2011 the cost of antiretroviral drugs in the U.S. was around $9 billion, most of which was paid for by government programs.

The currently recommended treatment for newly diagnosed patients is a single Atripla

pill taken daily that combines antiretrovirals – tenofovir (Viread), emtricitabine (Emtriva), and efavirenz (Sustiva). A generic form of the antiretroviral drug lamivudine, which has a similar mechanism of action to emtricitabine, became available in January 2012, and a generic version of efavirenz is expected in the relatively near future.

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

Gary Sarozek, MA, LMHC 1370 Stewart Street (Across from REI) Seattle WA, 98109

206-619-4187 gsarozek@comcast.net www.garysarozek.com

Que Areste, N.D.

SEATTLE COUNSELING ALLIANCE

Naturopathic Family Physician

Maura Freeman, RN, LMHCA

206.328.2926 drque@speakeasy.net 1605 12th Avenue, Suite 16 • Seattle, WA 98122 18 Seattle Gay News

206.310.3111 maura.freeman@comcast.net seattlecounselingalliance.com

January 18, 2013

Celebrating 40 Years!

An HIV breakthrough?

Virus can be prevented from replicating, new study says

abc news

wide rose to 34 million in 2011 from 33.5 million in 2010.

The vast majority (23.5 million) live in sub-Saharan Africa, with another 4.2 million in South and Southeast Asia.

There were 1.7 million deaths from AIDS-related causes worldwide in 2011 – 24 percent fewer than in 2005 and nearly six percent below the 2010 level.

New HIV infections have at least halved in 25 low- and middle-income countries, many in hard-hit Africa, over the past de34 MILLION NOW INFECTED According to the latest U.N. figures, the cade, with particular progress made toward number of people infected by HIV world- protecting children from the deadly virus. quality of life and lower costs to individual patients and government programs.

“In that respect, this is a world-first agent that’s able to stop HIV with a single agent at multiple steps of the virus lifecycle,” Harrich told ABC Radio.

“You either have to eliminate the virus infection or, alternatively, you have to eliminate the disease process and that’s what this could do, potentially for a very long time.”

Associate Professor David Harrich

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer An Australian scientist announced January 16 that he had discovered a way to prevent HIV from replicating.

In an article published in the journal Human Gene Therapy, David Harrich of the

he had named Nullbasic, had shown a “remarkable” ability to arrest HIV growth in a lab environment and could have exciting implications both in curbing AIDS and treating existing HIV patients.

He described it as “fighting fire with fire.”

“The virus might infect a cell but it wouldn’t spread,” Harrich explained.

“If this research continues down its strong path – and bear in mind there are many hurdles to clear – we’re looking at a cure for AIDS.” Queensland Institute of Medical Research said he had successfully modified a protein in HIV that the virus needs to reproduce itself, and instead made it “potently” inhibit virus growth.

“I have never seen anything like it. The modified protein works every time,” said Harrich.

“If this research continues down its strong path – and bear in mind there are many hurdles to clear – we’re looking at a cure for AIDS.”

“You would still be infected with HIV – it’s not a cure for the virus – but the virus would stay latent. It wouldn’t wake up, so it wouldn’t develop into AIDS,” he added.

“With a treatment like this, you would maintain a healthy immune system.”

Lab trials of the protein are due to start this year, but any treatment using it is likely some years away.

POTENTIAL GAME-CHANGER If the protein Harrich identified could effectively prevent reproduction of HIV, it could spell an end to onerous multiple drug ‘FIGHTING FIRE WITH FIRE’ Harrich said the modified protein, which regimes for HIV patients, meaning better

Legal Services MARTIN SJOLIE Over 20 Years Experience

Last Will, Power of Attorney & Health Care Directive (Living Will)

$500.00/Person or $750.00/Couple for complete, personalized services.

(206) 841–1373 www.sjolielaw.com

Auto accidents, DUI, Small business needs.

Visit us online www.sgn.org

January 18, 2013

Seattle Gay News 19

20 Seattle Gay News

January 18, 2013

Celebrating 40 Years!

international news Love conquers all LGBT rights trump religion, European Court of Human Rights says

christian institute

favor of a Coptic Christian who had been forbidden to wear a crucifix to work at British Airways, but against another employee whose crucifix had been banned for safety reasons.

The European Parliament’s LGBT Intergroup, made of LGBT members elected from the countries of the E.U., hailed the ruling as a “landmark.”

discrimination.

“With this ruling, the court has established that freedom of religion is an individual right. It is emphatically not a collective right to discriminate against LGBT people, women, or people of another faith or life stance,” she said.

“Religious freedom is no ground for exemption from the law. The court showed

“Religious freedom is no ground for exemption from the law. The court showed conclusively that the principle of equality and equal treatment cannot be circumvented with a simple reference to religion.” conclusively that the principle of equality and equal treatment cannot be circumvented NO RELIGIOUS EXEMPTION “British law rightly protects LGBT peo- with a simple reference to religion.” ple from discrimination, and there is no exemption for religious believers,” LGBT Intergroup Co-President Michael Cashman said in a statement. “Religion and belief are deeply private and personal, and should never be used to diminish the rights of others.”

The Intergroup’s vice president, Sophie in ’t Veld, added that religious belief does not constitute an exemption to laws against

Lillian Ladele

Religious beliefs do not justify limiting the rights of same-sex couples, the European Court of Human Rights ruled on January 15. The court also upheld British laws barring discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.

Based in Strasbourg, France, the court, established in 1959 by the European Convention on Human Rights, hears allegations of human rights violations committed by governments that are party to the treaty. All European countries with the exception of Belarus are signatories to the Convention.

partnerships were legalized in 2005. She claimed the British government discriminated against her because of her faith.

The court ruled there had been no discrimination, and that British courts – which upheld her dismissal – had struck the right balance between her freedom of religion and same-sex couples’ right not to be targets of discrimination.

In the second case, Gary McFarlane was a mental-health counselor providing couples therapy. He was dismissed for refusing to work with same-sex couples, arguing that to do so was incompatible with his beliefs. The court ruled unanimously that his freedom of belief had not been violated.

A QUESTION OF BALANCE In its January 15 ruling, the court examined four cases brought by professed Christians, including two who argued that their beliefs gave them the right to refuse services to same-sex couples.

In the first case, Lillian Ladele was a civil registrar in London. She was fired because she refused to officiate at civil partnership ceremonies for same-sex couples after such

POLICIES SCRUTINIZED “The most important factor to be taken into account was that the policies of the applicants’ employers – to promote equal opportunities and to require employees to act in a way which did not discriminate against others – had the legitimate aim of securing the rights of others, such as same-sex couples,” the court ruled.

In the other two cases, the court found in

by Mike Andrew SGN Staff Writer

Religion & Spirituality Sojourner Truth Ministries Sunday Service 11:15 am Rainier City Bldg 1265 South Main St #106 (14th & Main) Seattle, WA 98144 Phone: Rev. Walden @ 206 380-1710

A Church for All God’s People – since 1972 www.mccseattle.org Sunday Worship 11:00 am 1415 NE 43rd St. on U-District (206) 325-2421

Visit us online www.sgn.org

January 18, 2013

Seattle Gay News 21

Thomas Samson / AFP - Getty Images

Égalité, non!

French conservatives protest same-sex marriage

by James Whitely SGN Staff Writer On January 13, an estimated 340,000 people marched in Paris to protest the legalization of same-sex marriage in France, in one of the most massive protests in the country’s recent history. Many participated as families – husbands and wives, with children in tow. The three-mile march began at three different points around the city, with

the marchers converging on the Eiffel Tower for a rally.

“This law is going to lead to a change of civilization that we don’t want,” said Philippe Javaloyes, a literature teacher who bused in with 300 people from Franche Comte, a province southeast of Île-deFrance, the province where Paris is located.

“We have nothing against different ways of living, but we think that a child must grow up with a mother and a father.”

Protesters converged on Paris from all over France to protest same-sex marriage.

The marchers were protesting French President François Hollande’s plan to legalize same-sex marriage, adoption, and conception. Hollande, who took office on May 15, 2012, succeeded the conservative Nicolas Sarkozy, and promised during his campaign to bring about marriage equality.

POLLS: SUPPORT FALLING An August 2012 poll found that 65% of French were in favor of same-sex marriage and 53% supported adoption rights for same-sex couples. Unsurprisingly, a divide appears to exist between rural and urban areas. However, public opposition by religious leaders in recent months seems to have swayed the French population a great deal. According to a survey released on the day of the protest, only 52% now support legalization of same-sex marriage – a huge difference from the August poll.

Civil unions have been legal in the country since 1999, but are just as popular among heterosexuals as same-sex couples.

Unlike in the United States, many straight, secular French couples prefer civil unions to traditional marriage, which is seen as religion-oriented.

ADOPTION THE MAIN ISSUE The civil union law in France as it stands, however, has no provisions for adoption or assisted conception for same-sex couples, which many say is at the heart of the debate – thus the effort to legalize same-sex marriage in the country.

Harlem Désir, the leader of Hollande’s Socialist Party, which has a majority in Parliament, said that while he is grateful for the people’s right to protest, Sunday’s event would not affect the bill’s progress. The bill is expected to be introduced and put to a vote by the end of the month.

“The right to protest is protected in our country, but the Socialists are determined to give the legal right to marry and adopt to all those who love each other,” said Désir. “This is the first time in decades in our country that the right and the extreme right are coming into the streets together to deny new rights to the French.”

If Parliament approves the bill, France would become the 12th country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage nationwide, and the largest so far in terms of economic and diplomatic influence.

Home & Specialized Services Gary D. TorGerson Co. Expert Painting and Repairs Rot Repair: siding, doors, windows, porches and decks.

Lead-Safe Certified

See photographs of our work at www.TorgersonCompany.com Email: info@torgersoncompany.com Contractor Registration #: GARYDTC134CJ Phone: 206-781-0999

www.sgn.org 22 Seattle Gay News

January 18, 2013

www.sgn.org Celebrating 40 Years!

Visit us online www.sgn.org

January 18, 2013

Seattle Gay News 23