UNITE INDIANAPOLIS PRIDE ISSUE

ANNIVERSARY ISSUE

INDIANAPOLIS June/July 2015

the indy Pride Issue

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121 MONUMENT CIRCLE

from the Creative Director At the time I’m writing this letter, I am knee-deep in designing not only this publication, but the first-ever issue of the statewide UNITE Virginia. It’s hard to believe how far this magazine has come in so little time. The UNITE brand is now present in Virginia, Cincinnati, Nashville, and Indianapolis. Absolutely none of this would be possible without the hard work and dedication of our writers, staff, and of course our wonderful readers.

It is to all of you that this first Anniversary Issue is dedicated!

We take pride in what we do, and we are proud of the efforts of this community for the way it rallied together in protest of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA). We’d be fooling ourselves to believe that a hopefully-favorable Supreme Court ruling this summer would abolish the prejudices that our community faces. I encourage readers to keep that in mind during the festivities this June. We have come so far in our battle for equality, but there is so much more work that needs to be done.

Starting now, I challenge all of you to make this your mantra: Accept. Embrace. Unite.

Accept: Accept yourself for who you are. Own it, and take pride in it. If you cannot be truthful with yourself and respect your own individuality, then no one else will.

Embrace: We must embrace the differences within our own community if we expect others to embrace us. We’re all guilty of making assumptions or catty remarks about those within our community that differ from us. It’s time for that hypocrisy to come to end.

Unite: United we stand folks. Accept yourselves and embrace one another’s differences, so we can truly unite and stand strong. There is strength in numbers, and we must present a unified front if we are to be taken seriously.

Lastly, don’t forget to have fun! Pride is a celebration, so be safe and enjoy yourselves.

Sincerely,

Co-Owner & Creative Director 4 | UNITE Indianapolis

PUBLISHER Joey Amato CREATIVE DIRECTOR Blake Kniffin ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITORS Tom Alvarez, Jesse Walker BOOK REVIEWER Sebastian Fortino BUSINESS CORRESPONDENTS Norman R. Brandenstein, Bob Chenoweth, Mark A. Lee ENTERTAINMENT CONTRIBUTOR Chris Azzopardi FOOD & WINE EDITORS Karen Kennedy, Shawn Klumpjan HEALTH EDITOR Matt Grant, Psy.D., HSPP LEGAL WRITER Barbara Baird LIFE & STYLE WRITER Albert Winks POLITICAL EDITOR Josh Peters CONTRIBUTING WRITER Brenda Havens PHOTOGRAPHER Mark A. Lee BRAND CONSULTANT Albert Winks DISTRIBUTION Daniel Cope NATIONAL ADVERTISING Rivendell Media (908) 232-2021 ADVERTISING For advertising, contact Blake Kniffin at blake@unitemag.com or call (615) 870-4545.

WRITING OPPORTUNITIES For writing opportunities, contact Joey Amato at joey@unitemag.com or call (615) 852-6660.

LICENSING UNITE is currently available in Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Nashville, and statewide in Virginia. To find out about licensing opportunities for UNITE, contact Joey Amato at joey@unitemag.com or call (615) 852-6660.

Cover Art Designed by Peter Max exclusively for UNITE www.unitemag.com /unitemagindy

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pg. 26

FEATURE GIRL PRIDE 2015

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MUSIC EARLY MUSIC FESTIVAL WELCOME TO CAM COUNTRY KELLY CLARKSON BAND-ING TOGETHER

7 14 26 32

NOW MARRIAGE EQUALITY GAYMERS GEAR UP

18 32

ON THE AISLE STEVEN STOLEN’S PRIDE

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HEALTH PRIDE & SELF-ACCEPTANCE

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BUSINESS CHAMBER CHAT

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DINING GETTING REAL ABOUT ROSÉ

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LEGAL RELIGIOUS FREEDOM COMMUNITY PRIME TIMERS OF INDY

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music

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The Rose Ensemble: Music of Three Faiths

photo courtesy of the Indianapolis Early Music Festival

Indianapolis Early Music's 49th Festival STARTS JUNE 19th

by Blake Kniffin

Indianapolis Early Music Festival will launch its 49th season in the beautiful auditorium of the Indiana History Center, which is located in the heart of downtown on the canal on June 19. Kicking off the festivities will be Matthias Maute, who holds an international reputation as conductor, composer, recorder and flute player. Maute is esteemed for his artistic direction of Ensemble Caprice, for whom he

produces ingenious and fascinating programs.

He will perform again, with them, on June 21 in a program called Salsa Baroque featuring the music of Spain and Latin America.

The second weekend of the festival will include a June 26 performance by Nell Snaidas, who has been praised for her “beautiful soprano voice, melting passion” and “vocally ravishing” performances. Snaidas has been invited to join many leading Early Music ensembles throughout America and Europe.

The Rose Ensemble, on June 28, will perform the Land of Three Faiths: Voices of Ancient Mediterranean Jews, Christians, and Muslims. The result of years of intensive research and training, the program is sacred, secular, folk, and classical. It embarks on a fascinating exploration of lan-

guage, spirituality, and cultural exchange.

Weekend three, taking place on July 10 and 12, will include Trio Setticento and also Rachel Barton Pine.

Indianapolis Early Music (IEM) is America’s oldest, continuous presenter of Early Music. Originally known by its corporate name of Festival Music Society, it was established in 1966 as a not-for-profit organization to enrich, educate, and entertain audiences with the music of Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque and early classic eras. IEM is chiefly known for its annual summer Early Music Festival, a series of six concerts over four weeks. The Festival presents national and international performers, which utilize instruments of the period.

Tickets to this year’s event are $22 but are free for students with ID. For information, visit www.emindy.org.

UNITE Indianapolis | 7

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legal

RFRA Protest

8 | UNITE Indianapolis

photos by Mark A. Lee of Great Exposures

INDIANa's 'RELIGIOUS FREEDOM' LAW

by Barbara Baird

it considers to be “religion.” Ironically, perhaps the first to take advantage of this nebulous definition was the First Church of Cannabis, which officially registered in Indiana shortly after the bill was signed into law.

Indiana’s RFRA differs from the RFRA laws in 19 other states and the federal version by allowing a RFRA claim to be raised in a private lawsuit where the government is not involved in the action. Only Texas law has a similar provision. This means that when an individual sues a corporation for a violation of civil rights, the corporation, even if guilty of the violation, can defend against the claim by asserting that its “exercise of religion” would be burdened by upholding the claim.

These provisions would have meant that enforcement of local human rights ordinances could be prevented by raising a RFRA violation as a defense. However, when this anti-LGBT intent of the law became evident (assisted by Governor Pence’s performance on a national Sunday morning news show), a national outcry ensued with an ever growing list of boycotts and lost convention and concert

THE ‘FIX’ IS IN...FOR NOW

Only those who spent this March and April on a deserted island could be unaware of the firestorm that erupted around Indiana’s so-called “Religious Freedom Restoration Act,” or RFRA. With tea party conservatives and religious leaders seeking to counteract the recent victory of same sex couples for the right to marry, Governor Pence and the Republican supermajority in our General Assembly steamrolled the passage of RFRA. With no thought given to the opposition, the Republican leadership was blindsided by the nationwide backlash which became an embarrassment and economic disaster for the State.

What’s so bad about Indiana’s RFRA? Indiana’s version of RFRA goes far beyond the federal and most state versions of RFRA. The Indiana law, unlike the federal version, allows a for-profit business, including a large, publicly held corporation, to assert its “free exercise of religion” in opposition to any state law or government policy that it claims would “burden” its exercise of religion. Under our RFRA, for-profit corporations have the same rights as individuals or churches to claim a religious belief (how many corporations have you seen in church?).

And the law states that a “religion” need NOT be “compelled by, or central to, a system of religious belief.” So, any person or corporation is free to define what

business. Forced into a corner on the eve of the Final Four, our legislators amended the law to specifically prohibit using RFRA as justification for discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity—the ostensible ”fix.”

What did the “fix” fix? Does this historic reference in the Indiana Code to non-discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity mean that discrimination against LGBT persons is now against the law in Indiana? Unfortunately, the answer is a resounding NO! Under Indiana law, it remains perfectly legal to fire someone for being gay or transgender and to deny services to LGBT persons, including gay wedding services. Nor are there any protections under federal civil rights laws against LGBT motivated discrimination (although the Obama administration has issued executive orders prohibiting such discrimination by federal contractors).

On the positive side, the “fix” does mean that the several local human rights ordinances around the state cannot be undermined by using RFRA. However, the protections provided by such ordinances are limited, due to inadequate remedies and the questionable ability to enforce remedies against violators who refuse to comply.

The fight is not over. As evident from the Statehouse rally on April 27 staged by the Indiana Pastors Alliance and the open letter they sent to Pence and the Indiana legislature, the Republican political base is nevertheless outraged by the “fix.” The Alliance has promised to unseat the Republican leadership that “betrayed” them by “cowardly capitulation” to “the demands of the LGBT lobby” because they see the “fix” as a “trampling of our liberties.” Be on the lookout for legislation next year to repeal the “fix.”

On the other side of the coin, progressive groups have said that they will seek expansion of the Indiana Civil Rights Act to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Be prepared for another legislative session in which little is accomplished to address the real problems of our state, while our representatives instead debate the fictitious clash between equal treatment for the LGBT community and religious freedom.

UNITE Indianapolis | 9

Let's Hear it for the Girls GIRL PRIDE: 2015

by Blake Kniffin

L

os Angeles-based singer/songwriter Ivy Levan, who quickly built a name for herself thanks to her show-stopping pipes and undeniable command of sleek, yet gritty pop, will perform her new single “Biscuit” at Indianapolis Girl Pride on Thursday, June 11 at The Vogue Theatre. “Biscuit” is the lead single from Ivy’s upcoming debut album (out later this year), which will feature collaborations with artists such as Tomo Milicevic of 30 Seconds To Mars, world-renowned DJ/producer Diplo, and Sting.

Built on the bold and brash sound Levan first revealed on her 2013 EP Introducing the Dame, Levan’s new songs find her snaking her soulful vocals around smoky, R&B-soaked pop tracks along with fired-up party anthems and heart-stopping ballads.

“The album is a mixture of dark and light and everything in between,” says Levan. “My intent was to create timeless songs that were fun, but vulnerable.

I connected to so many songs like that growing up, and I want to continue to carry that torch.”

10 | UNITE Indianapolis

Ivy Levan

photo courtesy of Circle City IN Pride

Levan grew up in Bentonville, Arkansas, where she showed a love of singing right from her earliest years.

Raised on the soul, new wave, dance, big band, and rock & roll records that her mother constantly played at home, Levan expanded her musical palette with an electric array of artists such as Depeche Mode, Etta James, and The Misfits. “I’ve always been drawn to unique voices,” says Levan. “So my biggest musical inspirations were Whitney Houston because of her power and presence, Portishead because of Beth Gibbons’s distinct and haunting tones, and Wu Tang for the pure fun and raw energy.”

In creating her new album, Levan made a point of keeping her songwriting process spontaneous and loose and fueling each track with unabashed passion.

“An idea would hit me in the moment, and I’d just go with it,” she says. “And the lyrics are the same way.

It can be something as basic as being stuck in traffic or a deeper self-reflection about past relationships.”

The result includes the urgent, rollicking lead single

“Biscuit,” which is a personal manifesto that finds Levan belting out lines like “I think you might have missed it/When I told you to kiss it, my biscuit.”

“I really wanted to make a song that summed up my attitude, and the way I was raised in the South,” she explains, “Southern Belles don’t take no lip.”

Levan joins an incredible roster of performers participating in this year’s Girl Pride. Despite its continued growth, Girl Pride’s focus remains clear: providing the spotlight to female musicians. The most ambitious Girl Pride to date, this year’s show will take place on Thursday, June 11, from 9 P.M. - 3 A.M. featuring performances from Chely Wright, as well as the soulful 60’s stylings of The Vallures, and the acoustic comedy of Crackhead Patty.

Chely Wright Wright released her debut album in 1994 on Mercury/Polygram. That album, Woman in the Moon, attracted positive reviews and Wright would go on to win the Academy of Country Music Award for Best New Female Vocalist for that year. Wright reached commercial success with her release on MCA Nashville: “Shut Up and Drive,” from her third album Let Me In, hit the Top 20 US Country Chart securely at number 14. She continued along her successful arc with her follow-up album, 1999’s Single White Female, which scored her first number 1 for the eponymous single.

Chelyl Wright

photo courtesy of Circle City IN Pride

The Vallures The Vallures bring their audiences soulful and endearing Motown music with a twist (and a shout)! The Vallures are the sounds of the summer of ‘66 at a go-go/sockhop.

They dance & shake, move it and groove it with old hits, rarities, and a dash of originals that point and nod to that special style of 60’s lush pop that will make you want to do The Jerk and Boogaloo while your friends do the Watusi and the Bug all over your Mashed Potato. The Vallures experience is uptight, all right, out of sight, and is guaranteed to have you singing and dancing all night!

Cirque Indy with Angel Burlesque Beyond stellar music performances, Girl Pride will also have a strong visual component this year, adding the aerial acrobatic skills and finesse of Cirque Indy with the tantalizing sensuality of Angel Burlesque. Established in 2012, Cirque Indy blends their combined love of acrobatics and performance art into a dazzling, gravity-defying show that features various disciplines, like aerial silk, rope, static trapeze, aerial hoop, and much more.

Angel Burlesque’s brand of burlesque takes the genre to entirely new levels of theatrics, using smart and hilarious comedy routines to up the sexy stakes! Their dedication, ingenuity, and creativity have earned them the title of Best Burlesque Group from NUVO readers, three years running!

12 | UNITE Indianapolis

Crackhead Patty For local acoustic cover duo, Crackhead Patty, crowd participation is the key ingredient to their energetic shows. They’ve covered everything from pop hits like Justing Timberlake’s “Sexyback,” to classics like The Carpenter’s “Close to You,” to indie kinda-hits like the Rusted Roots’ “Send Me On My Way.” You will likely know the words to everything they play, and you’ll want to sing along. (And yes, they will let you.)

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music

Over the last few years, country superstars including Carrie Underwood and Miranda Lambert have expressed concern over the lack of women in country music, despite both of their meteoric accolades. Enter Cam, a spunky singer/ songwriter from California.

The first single off her EP, Welcome to Cam Country, “My Mistake” received 2.3 million streams on Spotify. Further, Cam was chosen by the online streaming service as the Country Spotlight Artist to Watch in 2015. Cam took some time to chat with us about her new album and her Grand Ole Opry debut, which was arguably the biggest moment of her career thus far.

What was your first big break in the music business?

I got a call from agent saying they had a cancellation, and I was asked to fill in for an artist at a private concert in Hollywood Hills. Everyone was there including Emmylou Harris. After that, Emmylou asked me to fill in for Merle Haggard at a concert which also featured Heart, Vince Gill, and Jason Mraz. Even though nobody knew of me, it was incredible.

Tell us about your upcoming Grand Ole Opry debut.

It’s a huge deal. I felt like ‘are you sure you want me to perform?’ You 14 | UNITE Indianapolis

photo by Kristin Barlowe

WELCOME TO CAM COUNTRY

by Joey Amato just think of huge names who have played the Opry, and I’m not iconic. I’m nervous but humbled. I can’t believe I get to be on the same stage as Elvis Presley and Patsy Cline.

Indie. They love country music there, so it was a lot of fun.

If you can perform/write with anyone, who would it be?

I’m mostly just doing festivals and a radio tour. I’ll be opening for some great artists that I admire including Brantley Gilbert, Lee Brice, Chris Young, and Phil Vasser.

I would love to perform with Dolly Parton. I saw a video of her performing at the Glastonbury show. She’s so incredible.

How did you like touring Scandinavia?

One of my guitarists is Danish, and we had connection to a band over there. Bands bring artists to Scandinavia, so they had all the shows planned. It was really cool and

What are your summer plans?

Howdoyoufeelaboutsame-sexmarriageand the potential of it being legalized nationally?

I think it’s a really interesting discussion.

Quite honestly, coming from San Francisco, it’s not as big as an issue for me. I’ve always been surrounded by gay culture, and it has always been accepted.

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the aisle

Steven Stolen's Pride: FAMILY, ART, & ACTIVISM

Steven Stolen (left) with spouse, Rob MacPherson

photo by Mark A. Lee of Great Exposures

by Tom Alvarez

W

Tom Alvarez is a longtime journalist, reviewer and Emmy Award-winning television producer & director. He covers the performing arts in Central Indiana for Examiner. com and is also a regular contributor on WISH-Channel 8’s Indy Style.

16 | UNITE Indianapolis

hen it comes to pride, few would dispute the fact that Steven Stolen is one of the finest examples of what that word means in terms of integrity, openness, self-awareness and community spirit. In addition, there is no question that he is also one of the most visible and high-profile LGBT role models as an artist and mainstream community leader.

The facts speak for themselves. To describe Stolen’s career as multifaceted would be an understatement. A singing artist who has performed with noted conductors and worked with orchestras and festivals all over the country, he has also been a college professor in the music department at Butler University, managing director at Indiana Repertory Theatre, and executive director of the Indianapolis Children’s Choir.

Some other community leadership posts of Stolen’s have included a stint as regional director of the California-based company Rocket Ship and his current work in external relations with the Julian Center, Indiana’s leading domestic violence support organization.

An Iowa native, Stolen, who has lived in Indianapolis since 1987, also founded

Meridian Song Project in 1997 and has been its resident artist for free concerts since that time.

He also hosts a popular radio program, “Stolen Moments,” on WFYI Radio.

Stolen and his spouse Rob MacPherson, who have been a couple for nearly 27 years, were married in California in 2008.

Together with their 16 year old daughter Abbey, they are probably best known in Indiana as lead plaintiffs in the successful 2014 ACLU challenge and lawsuit that resulted in marriage equality in Indiana.

Recently, UNITE caught up with Stolen for a brief chat about the arts, pride and leadership.

Does being gay inform you as an artist?

It does. When you find a way to communicate honestly and effectively, you draw upon the

things in your life that have made you who you are.

Barbara Cook said, “When you can go to those places that were the biggest challenges for you, and you can find a way to have that be in your voice, whether you’re singing a Rogers & Hammerstein or a Stephen Sondheim song, you have something that sets you apart as an individual.” What it really does is it allows you to communicate in an honest way.

Have the arts played a role in the LGBT struggle for acceptance?

The arts have played a very important convening role. I think the arts brought like-minded individuals together in a way without it having to be necessarily LGBT subject matter. We have always shared time in the lobby with people that share the same interests. I think that the cultural community was a safe territory for a long time. Safe places to be with your then partner, now your husband or wife, and with people who want to be challenged in the theater, the concert hall, a gallery or a museum. It became a much easier place to convene.

What do you say to LGBTs about why they should explore the arts?

I feel like great plays, great concerts, great singers and great players are singing to me. If I am doing my best, I want you to feel as though I am singing to you. There is just a whole bunch of stuff in the arts that is unique that you can’t

experience at a sporting event or movie theater. Living, breathing people doing their thing can profoundly touch and change the way you think about a play, or a song, or anything. When you can allow yourself that experience with other people whether it be 15 or 500 or 5,000—the arts give you that chance to feel like you have a champion if you are struggling. There is something in almost every show that speaks to us as human beings regardless of our race, ethnicity, our religious disposition. I think the theater is a wonderful place to go for people, especially people who struggle with coming out. It allows you to be in that moment. It’s a unique opportunity, and it’s there for almost everybody.

Do you embrace your designation as a role model?

I am flattered by it. Do I embrace it? It may embrace me! I think it is a wonderful thing, but I do feel a responsibility. I came out in 1986 when I was still a college professor in a little town in Iowa. I had a person who was very dear to me say, “You should not have done this.” It was a colleague, and I replied, “No, we have to do this because these kids at this college need to understand. These kids need to know that being gay isn’t just about a five minute story about the San Francisco pride parade on the news. Being gay is not what they’ve heard in their churches, or perhaps at kitchen tables in their homes.” Part of what constitutes leadership is that it sometime chooses you.

N NOW

MARRIAGE EQUALITY HEADLINES PRIDE

by Jesse Walker

18 | UNITE Indianapolis

Indy Pride, recently announced an extremely unique headliner for the annual Circle City IN Pride festival: Marriage Equality.

A lawsuit (Baskin v. Bogan) challenging the state’s refusal to grant marriage licenses to same-sex couples on June 25, 2014, paved the way for same sex marriage in Indiana. Working in tandem with the Indy Rainbow Chamber, Indy Pride is proud to announce that, for the first time ever, happy couples will be officially married at this year’s Circle City IN Pride Festival, Saturday, June 13.

Circle City IN Pride is one of Indy’s most anticipated events, which garnered some 95,000 attendees last year. This year, couples will be able to marry at the festival through a massive wedding on the main stage, or in a more personal chapel setting.

While Indy Pride cites specifically the legalization of gay marriage as the impetus for offering marriages at the festival, Chris Morehead, Indy Pride president, assures that all are welcomed to register. “This is a first for us, both as an organization and as members of the LGBT community,” he says, “and we want to celebrate marriage equality by hosting a wedding for anyone that wishes to take part. This includes heterosexual couples and those already married who simply wish to renew their vows.”

Indy Pride's Big Happy Wedding Appropriately titled Indy Pride’s Big Happy Wedding, this massive wedding is free and open for everyone, no matter one’s sexual orientation or gender identity, and will take place at 11 A.M. on the main stage.

The first ten couples who registered online will have a place on the main stage during the ceremony; however, there is no cap on the number of couples who can participate, and there is no registration fee.

Niki Quasney Equality Chapel Thirteen individual fifteen-minute ceremonies will also be offered at an on-site chapel setting, which will run from 11:30 A.M. through 6:00 P.M.. Couples will check-in at the Niki Quasney Equality Chapel, with the Indy Rainbow Chamber of Commerce, which will be located near the back of the main stage area.

The chapel is named for Niki Quasney, who, along with wife Amy Sandler, bravely joined Lambda Legal’s marriage case against the State of Indiana while Quasney battled cancer. Quasney passed away on Thursday, February 5, 2015. Their bravery made history, and their fight will be remembered.

Couples wishing to partake in an individual ceremony at the Niki Quasney Equality Chapel will be required to register online, which will cost $100. The onsite ceremonies will feature amenities including seating for fifty, flowers provided by Lilly Lane Flowers, and a choice of wedding officiant. Any proceeds after costs will benefit Indy Pride, Inc. and its mission.

Registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis.

“Pious Facade”

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sspain1@bellsouth.net | sandyspain.com | 615.646.3396

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health

PRIDE & SELF-ACCEPTANCE

by Matt Grant, Psy.D., HSPP

About the author: Matt Grant, Psy.D., HSPP is a clinical psychologist and sole proprietor of NorthStar Psychological + Consultation Services, LLC, located in the heart of downtown, Indianapolis.

He is a psychotherapist, entrepreneur, consultant, educator, mentor, blogger, and public speaker.

20 | UNITE Indianapolis

Circle City IN Pride is just around the corner, and I can feel the excitement in the air! I love this time of year because the energy is high, the air is warm, people are active and engaging, and the city is so effervescent.

When I heard the theme for the June/July publication was pride, I struggled with what to write. Initially, I was curious about what it meant to others (and I still am), but with all the hoopla that’s been unfolding with the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA), in our great state, I couldn’t help but write about the importance of self-acceptance during this time.

Accepting one’s sexual orientation and gender identity is more important now than it has been at any other time in history. Why? Because it’s much more challenging to make progress with marriage equality and the like if we do not accept ourselves. Understandably, we’ve faced a variety of obstacles. Typically, gay and gender-variant individuals have had to remain closeted for fear of being marginalized, discriminated against, abused, or worse. Without legislation that supports LGBT individuals, that fear grows.

We’ve learned from an early age to lie and withhold the truth inevetably becoming someone we don’t recognize or even hate. This is the “Big Secret” that Dr. Alan Downs wrote about in his powerful book The Velvet Range: Overcoming the Pain of Growing Up Gay in a Straight Man’s World, which I highly recommend reading.

Unfortunately, we no longer can be playing hide and seek. Although it’s fun, we’re far too old for that, and it only hurts us. In the end, you only have to find the most important person—yourself. It’s time that we stop hiding and compensating by chasing material possessions, becoming obsessed with our image and careers, using sex and drugs as a way to escape, and being ingenuine by lying and deceiving. Rather, it’s time to seek out our true selves. One way you can do this is by standing in front of a mirror and asking the following question, “Who am I?” Internalized homophobia and society’s anti-LGBT messages can send many people into hiding. Legislation like the RFRA sends a message that it’s not okay to identify as LGBT. This particular bill communicates loudly that we’re somehow inferior and unacceptable. These messages, intended or not, are hurtful and damaging and can leave LGBT persons confused, lost, and ashamed.

Both individually and as a community, we can no longer hide behind our facades because we know that comes at a price. We can’t expect society or others to

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accept us or our community if we don’t accept ourselves.

And this also applies for letting go of the discrimination and judgment that we have within our own community.

Trying to erase years of shame, hurt, and pain is like trying to heal a wound that keeps reopening. There is hope in finding self-acceptance, but it has to start with you. If you’re unsure on where to start, find a welcoming therapist to help you on this journey. As a psychotherapist, it’s been my observation that LGBT people feel more fulfilled once they come to terms with their sexuality and/ or gender identity.

Why do we celebrate pride? We celebrate because it’s a time of affirmation, acceptance, and unconditional love, which the LGBT person likely doesn’t experience on a regular basis. There’s absolutely nothing like being around others that can understand and relate to your own experiences. That sense of belonging and acceptance is euphoric, and this is so important to the LGBT person.

For me, pride is about being authentic and loving myself for who I am without apologies. It’s letting others know that I’m lovable and acceptable just like everyone else; I’m a person with feelings and imperfections.

We’d love to hear what pride means to you Indiana.

Send your pride story to joey@unitemag.com.

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business

CHAMBER CHAT

by Bob Chenoweth

In the LGBT community, pride is a word that conjures images of festivals, friends, fun and frivolity. It’s a word that brands our collective sense of community, and a word that speaks to how we find strength in our struggles. It’s a word that reminds us to stand firm and tall in the face of prejudice and hatred.

For me, the word pride is all of the above, but even more.

As we gather in celebration at the Circle City IN Pride festival and await (as of this writing) the Supreme Court decision that could lead to nationally-recognized same-sex marriage, pride is also about personal reflection on the past and visions for the future.

In 2005, I joined the Indy Rainbow Chamber, seeking a network to help me grow my small business, Chenoweth Content & Design. In 2006 I was asked to join the Chamber’s Board of Directors. Over the years, the Chamber became not just a networking organization, but a place of purpose and, in many ways, a family. Along the way, I served as Marketing and Communications Director, as Secretary, and finally, for the last two years, as Chairman. Throughout my time and years of service, I have been blessed to serve alongside some amazing, talented and dedicated people.

They will forgive me, I’m sure, for not singling them out here merely because I might inadvertently leave out one or more of these unforgettable compatriots.

Thanks to my fellow Board members, thanks to our Chamber members, and thanks to our community, it’s been one hell-of-a-ride, but now it is time for me to move on.

I’ll still be involved as a Chamber member and occasional volunteer, but it’s time for me to explore and take pride in new passions, such as my art work and The 50+ Business Network I founded last year with some friends. Most importantly, I’ll be able to spend more time with my wonderful and ever-patient husband. For most of our 14 years together, the Chamber has been part of our lives, and Dan has given me the support I needed to continue to serve our community (couldn’t have done it without you, baby!).

So this time of pride for me is bittersweet. I’m sad to leave the Rainbow Chamber Board, but I’m proud of all the things we’ve accomplished together. I’m proud that we developed a vibrant brand that is a key part of the LGBT landscape in In22 | UNITE Indianapolis

Bob Chenoweth

photo by Mark A. Lee of Great Exposures

dianapolis and beyond. I’m proud of overcoming the trials that come with asking so much from a volunteer Board. I’m proud that the Chamber took on new challenges such as the Grand Marriage Equality Wedding Event in April and the wedding hub at the Circle City IN Pride festival in June.

I’m proud that we have been able to help businesses connect and grow, and I’m proud of the growth of our own organization, which recently attained its greatest membership levels ever (and is poised to continue this growth).

Here are my parting words: If you are on the sidelines and have not yet taken advantage of the opportunity to get involved in the LGBT community, I invite you to get in the game. If you are a business owner or operator, work with a notfor-profit organization, or if you simply consider yourself a supporter of our community, join the Indy Rainbow Chamber. It’s easy. Just visit www.

GayIndyNow.com or www.Indy.LGBT to join online. When you get involved, chances are good that you will find yourself making new friends and accomplishing more than you thought you could.

So, that’s it! I look back with pride, and I look forward with confidence that the best is yet to come.

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Spring is my favorite time of year. I love the resurgence of life, leaves, buds, and blossoms; they remind me of one of my favorite wines. Being an equal-opportunity sipper, I am here to tell you that while I have many favorite wines, Rosé or Blush wines are a style that is near and dear to my heart.

I know that when we talk about Rosé, White Zinfandel instantly comes to mind. Good or bad, it is one of America’s top-selling wines. We love sweet wine and consume tons of it every year. With that, I confess that I don’t detest sweet wines – a a great dessert wine is essential to an exceptional dining experience – but I am here to clarify what Rosé is all about.

First, Rosé is simply a wine that has had a little more contact with the skin of the grape.

This contact is where the pink color comes from since the pigment from the skin of the grape gives a wine its color.

Rosé can be still or bubbly and can be represented by a broad spectrum of grape varieties.

There is a style and flavor for every thirsty soul.

Rosé ranges from sweet to dry and therefore can be paired with and enhance the flavor of any culinary creations. I get so excited about Rosé simply because it can be paired with everything: seafood, chicken, and BBQ. Spring and early summer means that grills and people come together to celebrate and Rosé is certianly a wine that will wow your guests. They may judge the color but the flavors that are enhanced when BBQ and Rosé make that connection

is unforgettable. Trust me. What I have discovered with my addiction to Hot Chicken is that semi-sweet blush wines are a perfect match; there’s just nothing better than Prince’s Hot Chicken with a glass of White Zinfandel.

Good GOD that felt good to confess!

Rosé is one of those wines that get a bad reputation and for no other reason except for the poor examples that have been consumed en mass for years.

Even though it can be a cheap wine, Rosé is an amazing style that deserves attention.

To find the perfect Rosé, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, consider your own preferences (sweet, semi-sweet, dry). Second, look for those creative individual bottles of Rosé that you may never have heard of before.

Finally, ask questions and recommendations about style and opinions. Stepping outside the box and taking an adventure with your taste buds will reveal something surprising when the cork is pulled.

Take an opportunity to venture down a path with Rosé and realize what this wine can contribute to an experience.

The possibilities are endless and with a great Rosé, nothing else than a comfortable blanket, porch or seat outside is necessary.

And let’s be real, put Rosé on the menu of your next BBQ! You won’t be disappointed.

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M MUSIC

OUR LIVES WOULD SUCK WITHOUT KELLY CLARKSON

by Chris Azzopardi

26 | UNITE Indianapolis photo courtesy of RCA Records

Prime Timers Indianapolis Before catapulting to pop stardom, Kelly Clarkson was one of us. In many ways, she still is.

The original American Idol, who memorably erupted into waterworks when she won the first season of the reality show in 2002, wasn’t always able to muster the willpower she’s instilled in the gay community through her uncompromising persona and liberating pop anthems, including those on her latest album, Piece by Piece.

That’s just the charm of Clarkson, who opens up in our new interview about overcoming teen inferiorities, diehard lesbian fans who call themselves “Kezbos,” driving Bette Midler to “suicide,” and that night she sipped some wine, felt “sad” for our generation and wrote a powerful song about it.

OK, Kelly, take my hand. I wanna go back with you.

The imagery!

Tell me the moment in your career you first knew gay people worshipped at your altar.

(Laughs) Oh my god – that’s amazing! It was the Breakaway World Tour (in 2005) – the first tour for the Breakaway record – and it was so awesome. One girl on tour came up and just introduced herself and was like, “I’m a Kezbo,” and I was like, “What?!”

She was like, “A Kezbo – your lesbian fans.” And I was like, “Wait – there’s enough of you to have a group? That’s amazing!

Awesome! Go me!” And she was like, “Yeah, we just love you. We’re gonna bring you to the other side.” And I was like, “All right, well, keep trying!”

Then, on the same tour, I had this guy, and he was so funny! Because, you know I’m a huge fan of Bette Midler and have been since I saw For the Boys when I was a kid, and he’s like, “You’re our new Bette!”

(Laughs) I was like, “You need to aim higher. Bette Midler just shot herself!

I’m not that cool, but I will work on gaining the respect of that compliment.”

A social organization for mature gay men

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Is it hard to fathom yourself a gay icon?

I guess it’s hard to fathom you can be an icon in general. I don’t consider myself an icon at all, but no– I have a lot of gay and lesbian friends and they like my stuff, so I guess it’s not so hard for me to think (the gay community) might like my music. But I don’t know ... I’m not an icon.

I’ve only been doing this for 13 years. You’ve gotta be doing it for a good 20 to gain that status.

When it comes to your strong bond with the gay community, how do you explain that connection?

I have a connection, but I don’t look at it differently. I don’t ever look at a fan as a gay fan or a lesbian fan or a straight fan – I don’t ever look at that. Fans are fans, and no matter what our lives are like, no matter what

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path we’re on, music is the one thing that connects us. I mean, I had so much fun at this club recently. It’s called G-A-Y – this club in London – and everybody knew all the words to every song. Even the new one! And they were gay and straight and lesbian – everybody was there. It didn’t matter, and it was just really cool. It was a cool event, and it was fun. And it’s what I love about music – that it doesn’t matter.

That’s what connects us.

What was your very first time at a gay bar like?

Oh gosh – that would’ve been in LA, and Iwas probably 22. I went with some of my friends and a couple of my gay friends, and they were like, “You’re gonna love this! But you’re gonna need to wear a hat.” They played “Since U Been Gone,” and it was so funny because nobody knew I was there. I had a blast!

The awesome thing, for girls especially: Because most gay bars that I’ve been to – and I guess I’ve been to four or five – are all gay men and not lesbians, and being a straight female, you don’t get hit on the whole time, you don’t get people grabbing you or, like, being gross. There’s no judgment, and it’s just fun. You’re not worried about going, “No, thank you, I can buy my own drinks.” It’s the most fun club and fun time you’ll ever have in your life.

In my sophomore year of high school, I got a little insecure about (my personality), because girls can be mean and I got the lead in this role in choir. No sophomore was ever supposed to get it, so people were just really mean about it. And, like, mean. Worse than the movie! (Laughs) It made me insecure, and not so much (in regard to) my music or as a singer or an artist – just me as a person. I was like, “Is there something wrong (with me)?” I would go, “But I think I’m a good friend.” That was the only time that I was really doubtful of my person. But I got over that real quick!

Growing up in small-town Texas, when did you get your first taste of gay culture? Did you even know gay people then?

Oh yeah. Yeah! Nobody was outspoken like they are now.

I think it’s a more comfortable – well, I don’t know. A couple of friends of mine just recently came out to their parents and one was just about the most horrible situation ever. So I think that still happens, unfortunately. But when I was a kid, I had a couple of my friends in choir with me. I think everybody knew (they were gay), but it wasn’t talked about or anything.

Honestly, I grew up in such a creative environment. Even in our choral group – even with my friends – nobody really talked about it, nobody was against or for it. There were no flags of any kind – of race, of who liked who. I feel like I grew up in a really incredibly good bubble. I never experienced people hating – no hate crimes or anything like that – until well into the industry. With Idol, people would say hateful things about certain contestants on the show, and I was like, “What in the world?!”

The song “Invincible” alludes to overcoming self-doubts and insecurities. In your own life, when did you most experience those hurdles, and when did you finally accept yourself for who you are?

In high school, and you know, I was having a hard time. I guess all people go through it – it’s just a different time period for all of us. When I was a sophomore in high school, it was the one time (in my life) I felt like I was insecure. It was just an awkward stage for me. Well, as was junior high, but I just wasn’t aware of it yet. (Laughs) I’ve always been different. I’ve never been the girl that has to feel like she has to get all dolled up every day. I’ve always been kind of a tomboy. I’ve always been very outspoken, and, you know, my mom is too. I don’t know any other way to be.

It’s just my personality.

28 | UNITE Indianapolis photo courtesy of RCA Records

I, fortunately, grew up in a world where that wasn’t a huge issue.

I gotta ask about your baby girl, River Rose.

Because she’s magical. She’s a magical unicorn.

You know, in some circles, the unicorn is a gay symbol.

Oh, I didn’t know that! But I love it. That’s what I call my baby!

Speaking of which, how might you and your hubby handle it if River turned out to be lesbian?

Oh, I don’t care. I mean, here’s what I hope for her: I just hope she finds love. It took me a while, man. And there was a lot of heartache throughout those years. You know, as long as she’s happy, I don’t care either way, and neither does my husband.

And we have two other kids as well, and we don’t care either way for all of them.

If one of them were to come out to you, what would you say?

I’d be like, “Awesome! When do we meet him or her?” Honestly, it’s so funny, it doesn’t even register in my world as different. I don’t know why. But yeah, it doesn’t. I’m glad it doesn’t!

During the song “I Had a Dream,” which you wrote about setting an example for future generations, you say, “Spreading your legs instead of using your words.” Older generations often criticize the industry for peddling so much sex. When you look out at pop culture currently, where do you stand concerning its use of sex? And how satisfied are you with the examples these artists are setting for people like your kids and future generations?

There’s a reason why women have been revered as long as we have been – even back in the day most statues are of us; most paintings are of us – (and it’s because) we’re a beautiful form, and I get it.

I get that that is sexy and I’m so in support of that. I love a sexy video. I don’t even mind raciness. I don’t mind that at all.

I just mind when people use that as the entire basis of their career. The only reason that I say that is because I feel those people are short-sighting themselves. I’m like, “You’re far more talented than that.” Yes, you can be sexy and risqué, but some of these women have these amazing voices and these amazing ideals, and they have more to offer than just that.

The song actually came about because I was sitting around with some friends – we were all drinking some wine – and I was like, “Man, when you were 10 were you not just so excited about our generation and what we were gonna accomplish?”

And then you look now and we’re still talking about race and we’re still talking about equal rights for everyone – didn’t you think we’d be past that?

Didn’t you think we’d be more? I ended up writing a song about that because it’s just kind of a sad thing. I just felt like our generation – I think we could’ve been more. It was just a sad moment for me, reflecting.

Gosh. That’s real deep, Kelly.

(Laughs) I can go dark real quick!

Why was it important for you to include a gay couple getting engaged in the “Heartbeat Song” video?

What’s funny is, I wasn’t even actually the one who picked all the people! Marc (Klasfeld), the director, and his team did. But it was funny, because I was doing an interview here in Nashville at one of the radio stations and one of the DJs there was like, “I’m gonna be in your video tomorrow!” And I was like, “Whaaaat?” And he was like, “Yeah! I asked if I could bring my boyfriend and they said yes.”

We had no idea that his boyfriend – I mean, he didn’t know either – was gonna propose to him on the set! At first he thought it was part of the video.

He didn’t get it at first, and that’s why he was like, “Are you for real? I don’t get it.” But it was the coolest thing that ended up happening, but none of that, honestly, was planned. It just kind of happened, and it was a beautiful thing.

And it’s sending an important message, don’t you think?

I think it’s silly that we’re still talking about gay rights. I just live in this world where people are accepted, so it’s very hard for me to even realize that that still exists. It’s hard for me to wrap my brain around it. That (gay couple) was a no-brainer, and I didn’t even think, “Oh, I’m making a statement for gay rights.” I was making a statement for the loss of love and the hope that you can still find it, regardless of what form that comes in. It wasn’t a purposeful thing. Love is love in whatever relationship it may be in.

Chris Azzopardi is the editor of Q Syndicate, the international LGBT wire service. Reach him via his website at www.chris-azzopardi.com.

UNITE Indianapolis | 29

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Art Dahm crossplays Kaylee from the TV series Firefly at Gen Con 2014.

photo by Jonathan Eigen

Gaymers Gear Up

FOR GEN CON

by Brenda Havens

32 | UNITE Indianapolis

ole-playing game characters better know where they are going if they want to survive and succeed. What is the climate or social/ political situation? How do the locals feel about elves? This is no different for the characters’ real-world personas.

For LGBT gamers (a.k.a. gaymers) this meant following Indiana’s Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) legislation and discussing its impact on Gen Con. In March, the Facebook group Gen Con Gaymers for gaymers and allies exploded with (mostly out-of-state) members posting articles, opinions, and concerns. Gen Con, an annual convention drawing 56,000+ attendees to Indianapolis from around the world, has an economic impact of over $50M. On March 23, in its first-ever political action, Gen Con LLC CEO Adrian Swartout wrote Indiana Governor Mike Pence, asking him to veto RFRA. In the letter, the Seattle-based company stated, “Legislation that could allow for refusal of service or discrimination against our attendees will have a direct negative impact on the state’s economy…” and warned it

could impact their decision to host future conventions in Indiana.

For many, Gen Con’s letter caused a tidal shift in the Indiana RFRA story. In a recent email, Jake Theis, Gen Con Marketing Communications, wrote, “We decided as an organization to respond because it was both in our attendees’ best interest to speak on their behalf, and the RFRA legislation sent the exact wrong message to a community in Indy that was fighting for diversity and inclusion.” To Facebook Gen Con Gaymers and similar forums elsewhere, Gen Con’s message was a breath of fresh air. “I’m so proud of them for taking a stand!” posted Jason Hobson (Oregon).

In gleeful post-RFRA irony, Gen Con 2015 will see more gaymer events than ever before. This is year four for the Queer as a Three-Sided Die panel. At the first panel, according to New Hampshire professional game designer and 20-year Gen Con attendee Steve Kenson, “Our seminar room was standing-room only.” Art Dahm (California), who organized a gaymer dinner in previous years, plans to add a picnic. Indianapolis local Kim Saylor is planning a dance at a local nightclub. Jeff Sorensen (Iowa) distributed rainbow “GAYMER” badge

INDIANAPOLIS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

ribbons at the last three conventions and is seeking sponsorships for 2015 GAYMER and ALLY ribbons.

2015 also adds a crossplay contest. According to Gen Con, crossplay, costuming a character of another gender, is very popular among anime fans.

While Governor Pence might hope RFRA is safely behind us, the gaymer discussions have only started.

Gaymers and allies are coming to Gen Con 2015, but as Daniel Salmeron of Arkansas puts it, “I am going to go and let my experience decide what to do for later conventions.” Gen Con has expressed satisfaction with past Indianapolis tourism experiences and overall Hoosier hospitality, but future planning is already underway. From the Indianapolis angle, Visit Indy is working with Gen Con to affirm the “Indy Welcomes All” message, and Indy Pride is exploring outreach opportunities.

For businesses wanting to capture those Gen Con dollars… gaymers and their allies are adamant they will rely on “Open for Service” or “We Serve All” signs in windows to know where they are welcome.

For more information on Gen Con gaymer events, visit www.TabletopGaymers.org.

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AUGUST 28, 29 & 30 BLUES TRAVELER*

JULY 10 & 11 THE MUSIC OF JOURNEY

Concert begins at 7PM on Sunday, August 30

SEPTEMBER 3 & 4 THE HIT MEN*

JULY 17 & 18 VIVALDI’S THE FOUR SEASONS

STUDIO LEGENDS OF FRANKIE VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONS

JULY 24 & 25 MOVIE MUSIC OF JOHN WILLIAMS JULY 31 & AUGUST 1 THE MUSIC OF GENESIS, STARRING DARYL STUERMER*

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music

Image from the 2013 conference in New Orleans

BAND-ING TOGETHER

by Blake Kniffin

The Pride of Indy Bands (Indiana’s only LGBT band program) is hosting outstanding musicians from across the nation to present a mass concert and pep performances as part of the Lesbian and Gay Band Association’s (LGBA) Annual National Conference in Indianapolis on August 6-9, 2015.

The LGBA began more than 30 years ago, in response to the discrimination of gays and lesbians, to increase visibility, bring communities together and to foster pride. Now with 35 member bands and partner organizations in four countries, LGBA comes together every year as guests of a member band to make music, promote unity, plan for the future and, yes, have fun. More than two years ago Pride of Indy Bands bid for and was selected to host the 2015 conference.

Governor Pence and the Indiana legislature dealt a blow to equality for all when Indiana’s Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) was passed and signed. Despite the recently passed “fix,” Indiana does not have in place any state-wide legal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity although the host city of Indianapolis does. Many have called for, or implemented boycotts of Indiana. LGBA respects and supports individuals who discern they should boycott events or boycott travel to Indiana. LGBA leadership does not, however, support moving the 2015 conference and stands ready to “support our fellow band members in the Pride of Indy bands”.

As an organization, LGBA supports the decision of Pride of Indy Bands to continue with the August conference in Indianapolis because to cancel or move the conference sends the wrong message to the LGBT community. Drum Corp International (DCI) and Pride of 34 | UNITE Indianapolis

photo courtesy of Pride of Indy Bands

Indy Bands are working together in a historic way for this conference. For the first time, DCI members who identify as LGBT and their family and friends will see, and hear, that they are important when DCI and LGBA team at the DCI Finals. Hoosiers will see, and hear, that despite the legislation, members of the LGBT community are proud, vibrant, active and contributing members of society as a whole and will not be ashamed of who we are or hide in the shadows.

“This event, being held at the same time as, and in conjunction with, Drum Corps International’s FINALS, is an opportunity to show the citizens of Indiana that the nation’s LGBT and allied citizens will not be intimidated or silenced,” stated the LGBA Board of Directors in an official statement.

Visit www.lgba.org for more information on LGBA.

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PAPARAZZI

Equality Rights Rally photos by Mark A. Lee of Great Exposures

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community

OUT AND ABOUT IN INDY

by Norman R. Brandenstein

Norman R. Brandenstein is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor serving the local LGBTQ community for over 14 years.

His prior career was as a professional performance artist and administrator.

38 | UNITE Indianapolis

photo by Mark A. Lee of Great Exposures

When gathering recently for dinner on Mass Ave., the Prime Timers of Indianapolis were combining their mission to provide social opportunities for their membership as well as support of the 2015 Dining Out for Life, which raises money for local HIV/AIDS organizations.

The Indianapolis chapter of the Prime Timers, founded approximately seven years ago, is part of Prime Timers Worldwide, founded in Boston in1987. The organization was created to recognize the need for supportive social gatherings for the diversity of mature gay and bisexual men as alternatives to the traditional social scene, and it now includes over 75 chapters located throughout North America, Europe and Australia. In addition to local activities, members have opportunities to gather at regional events, nationally at the biennial conferences, and travel internationally through organized tours.

Speaking of the local chapter activities, current President and early member Kim Johnson states, “We host brunch or dinner two or three times a month at area restaurants, participate in theater, music and other cultural activities, and we plan the occasional house party pitch-in, pool party or cookout. Our seven-member Board of Directors sets the agenda, and all members are welcome to attend meetings to ensure there is continual communication about what members desire for activities.” Johnson continues, “In retirement, being new to the city, a partner or loved one having died, or for a variety of other reasons, one can desire connections. Prime Timers offers individuals and couples a safe, warm, and friendly environment to socialize, meet new people and make long-lasting friendships.”

Having come from a different part of the country about four years ago, the chapter VP and Treasurer, Larry Hamlet says of the experience that he and his partner have had, “Our membership has allowed us to start fitting in to the area and has led to making good friends. We would heartily suggest that if men are seeking like-minded gay friendships, they should seriously consider joining Prime Timers Indianapolis as it has been a most welcoming group of guys.”

Visit www. primetimersww.com/indianapolis to find out more on the local chapter, or join the Facebook page by searching for Prime Timers Indianapolis. To check out other worldwide member cities, go to www.primetimersww.com.

Lesbian & Gay Band Association presents 2015 Annual Conference Concert • Hosted by Pride of Indy Bands

Where

Music

Visibility

Pride

c•o•n•n•e•c•t Over 200 Musicians from 30 Cities Guest Artists

Dr. Gail Lewis • Melissa Williams Directors

Justin Stolarik • Pete Noweln • Chris Forsythe

sunday, August 9th, 5pm $15 Advance • $20 Door Hilbert Circle Theatre • 45 Monument Circle, Indianapolis

Buy tickets online at: www.indianapolissymphony.org or scan the code below

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