2016-2017 SEASON TICKETS ON SALE NOW! 2016-2017 SIGNATURE SEASON SHOWS
SEPT 20 - OCT 15
OCT 18 - NOV 13
swashbuckling adventure
exploring our story
MARCH 7 - APRIL 1
JAN 10 - FEB 4
can love conquer all?
APRIL 25 - MAY 21 MARCH 28 - APRIL 23
hilarious farce
haunting mystery
tense thriller
ADD-ON SHOWS
NOV 19 - DEC 24
family tradition
Packages starting at $137
JAN 28 - FEB 26
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struggle and survival
the excellent exploits of a tiny hero
IRTLIVE.COM 317.635.5252
All art by Kyle Ragsdale
2016-2017 Season Add-Ons Include: A Christmas Carol, The Cay & Stuart Little
GET THE BOOK
BLAKE LITTLE:
PHOTOGRAPHS FROM THE GAY RODEO Showcasing photographs from the 2014 Eiteljorg Museum exhibition of the same title—an exhibit now traveling to venues across the country —this book explores the diverse and complex natures of individual and community identity in the West. It features black-and-white photographs taken by Blake Little documenting the gay rodeo circuit and the lives of many of its participants. Available in the Museum Store and online at: eiteljorg.org/visit/shop
Eiteljorg members always receive 15% off on items at the Frank and Katrina Basile Museum Store. STORE HOURS MON–SAT: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | SUN: Noon to 5 p.m. 317.275.1300 | 800.878.7978
store@eiteljorg.com
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letter from the editor
T
he secret to staying young is having the courage to try something new and outside of your comfort zone. Prior to this summer, singing along with the “Baseball Song” from Falsettos is the closest I have come to doing anything athletic. This year I decided to step out of my comfort zone, and meet new people by trying out for the Circle City Softball League. A ragtag team of us tried out, and we ended up forming the 9th team in the league. We may not have been the BEST team in the league (and it could be argued we were by far the worst), but it was FUN! It was hot, sweaty, and fun as hell. Even more so when we had a chance to go out for drinks afterwards with our fellow teammates. Welcome to our Entertainment Issue! The dog days of summer are behind us now, and it’s time to sit back and be entertained! Whether you are hoping to see a play at the IRT, or an exhibit at the Eiteljorg, we’ve got you covered. There’s even a Peter Max exhibit in Zionsville that is bound to put a smile on your face. Dr. Matthew Grant shows how you can balance entertainment with the rest of your life, so you don’t have too much of a good thing, and Karen Kennedy wows us yet again with her cooking skills for those of you who like to keep your entertainment close to home. For those of you who are political junkies, we’ve got you covered as well! So pull up a chair, and travel to Thailand, or learn what you can do to help our Transgender brothers and sisters in their fight for equality. It’s all right here in our Fall Issue! Enjoy!!!
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UNITE Indianapolis
Publisher Joey Amato Creative Director Blake Kniffin Managing Editor Mark A. Lee Arts & Entertainment Editor Tom Alvarez Business Correspondents Norman R. Brandenstein, JJ Marie Gufreda Food & Wine Editor Karen Kennedy Health Editor Matt Grant, Psy.D., HSPP Sports Writer Nick Poust Contributing Writers Chris Paulsen, Josh Peters Distribution Daniel Cope National Advertising Rivendell Media (908) 232-2021 Advertising & Editorial Joey Amato joey@unitemag.com (931) 313-9613 Cover created exclusively for UNITE Indianapolis by Peter Max www.unitemag.com /UNITELGBTMAG @UNITELGBTMAG
2016/2017 season
peter andthe st*rcatcher A PLAY BY RICK ELICE
BASED ON THE NOVEL BY DAVE BARRY AND RIDLEY PEARSON
MUSIC BY WAYNE BARKER September 22 – October 23
static
BY PLAYWRIGHT-IN-RESIDENCE
TOM HORAN
October 27 – November 20
a very
phoenix xmas 11
I,m dreaming of an intersectionally thoughtful, multicultural winter holiday
BY VARIOUS ARTISTS
November 25 – December 23
How to use a
knife
BY WILL SNIDER
THE
CHRISTIANS BY LUCAS HNATH February 16 – March 12
January 19 – February 12
Sex Strangers with
BY LAURA EASON
the
o p e n hand BY ROBERT CAISLEY April 20 – May 14
March 16 – April 9
HIR
BY TAYLOR MAC May 18 – June 18
BOOK BY MICHEL HAUSMANN; MUSIC BY SALOMON LERNER AND LYRICS BY LEN SCHIFF
June 22– July 16
HUMAN RITES BY SETH ROZIN July 20 – August 13
TICKETS ON SALE
NOW!
PhoenixTheatre.org / 317-635-7529
Table of Contents
Feature
Peter Max Exhibit
Profile
Dustin Nowaskie of OutCare Xavier Sayeed
Politics
Our Transgender Family Trump & Pence
Health
HIV and Primary Care Victims of Our Own Devices
Arts & Culture Don Gummer: Back Home Again An exhibition of eight sculptures by Indianapolis-born, New York-based Don Gummer.
Aug. 31, 2016 to Aug. 7, 2017 On the Indianapolis Cultural Trail: A Legacy of Gene & Marilyn Glick More information: dongummerindy.com Attend the grand opening Aug. 31, 11 am, outside the Indiana Repertory Theatre. Presented by the Central Indiana Community Foundation in honor of The Indianapolis Foundation’s 100th anniversary and in partnership with Indianapolis Cultural Trail, Inc.
What Can’t be Said Symphonic Choir to Perform at Carnegie Fall Arts Guide
Health
The Sweet Spot: Living a Life of Authenticity Eskenazi Health Named Leader in LGBT Healthcare
Food & Wine Flavors of Fall
Travel & Leisure Thailand & Cambodia
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10 14
12 22
24 30 32
20 26
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contributors
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.
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.
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.
Karen Kennedy, the Circle City’s “Maven of Merriment” is an Indianapolis-based event planner and food writer. She is the owner of Small Potatoes, a catering and event planning company specializing in unique, themed and custom menus for groups of up to 300 guests.
Shawn Klumpjan, the owner of DeVineGuy Lifestyle Concierge is a 15 year resident to Nashville and Middle Tennessee and has over 20 years of experience in Hospitality, Food & Beverage and Retail. Shawn loves cooking, traveling and music of all genres with a new found passion for fitness. For more information, email shawndevineguy@ gmail.com.
Chris Paulsen is the Campaign Manager for Freedom Indiana, and a long time Hoosier. She has been an active member of the LGBT movement as a board member and President of Indiana Equality Action, and is currently a member of the capital campaign committee for Indiana Youth Group. Chris lives with her wife, Deanna Medsker, of 18 years.
Josh Peters is passionate about issues related to income inequality, civil rights, and environmental degradation, and is currently the President of the Indiana Stonewall Democrats and Executive Director of the Marion County Democratic Party. Josh also serves on the Midwest DNC LGBT Advisory Board.
Nick Poust joined UNITE in October 2015, shortly after moving to Indianapolis from Portland, Oregon. Upon graduating with a B.A. in Journalism from the University of Oregon in 2012, he spent a year-anda-half covering the arts, food, politics and sports in his hometown of Eugene for the Eugene Weekly.
UNITE Indianapolis
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profile
A Conversation with Dustin Nowaskie, Founder of OutCare by Joey Amato Why did you create OutCare? After going through my first year of medical school, I observed many stereotypes and offensive scenarios portraying LGBTQ individuals. At the same time, I was seeking a healthcare provider who I would feel comfortable with, but unfortunately I could not locate a doctor who had experience with unique LGBTQ healthcare needs. Having attended undergraduate school in Los Angeles, I kept going back to the same feeling of wishing I had access to many LGBTQ resources. It was around this time that these feelings of optimism and motivation coalesced into OutCare. OutCare is my way to make Indiana a more welcoming place. OutCare is an initiative that makes LGBTQ resources visible to the public so that individuals can easily access the best culturally competent healthcare available. Tell me about some of your first responses from healthcare providers. Our initial responses ranged from very supportive to disapproving. Overall most providers generously thanked our team for creating this much-needed resource. We did however receive skeptical questions often such as, “Why does it matter that I am competent?”. Some providers also viewed the OutList as an “outing” directory rather than its intended purpose to showcase culturally competent providers. These providers often responded with an unwavering
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photo by Liz Kaye, Art Director/Producer/Photographer at Indiana University Communications
“no” despite attempts to re-clarify the purpose of the OutList. Did you receive any backlash? I wouldn’t dub our initial difficulties as “backlash”, but our interactions during the first few months of OutCare’s inauguration were occasionally discouraging. Our team reached out to several hospital organizations, faculty, staff, and community members; while many were verbally supportive, we only received actual support from very few. What are your plans for growth in Indiana? OutCare has primarily identified Indianapolis-based resources and providers. In the coming years, we are planning to expand OutCare across the entire state, so that we can identify all LGBTQ healthcare services, expand the OutList, and make these resources accessible to individuals who do not
have the means to travel to Indianapolis. Eventually we would like to create annual LGBTQ conferences and training for healthcare providers to acquire cultural competency. What organizations have you patterned with? Currently, we’ve partnered with several local organizations. Our main partnership is with the Indiana University School of Medicine Office of Diversity Affairs. Members of the diversity office have been instrumental in helping OutCare get started and continue to progress. We have also partnered with Eskenazi Health and Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine in order to expand our outreach. How has OutCare been received by the community? In my opinion, OutCare has been received rather well. Ever since I
created OutCare, we have received much praise from our institution and community organizations. OutCare recently received the Joseph T. Taylor Excellence in Diversity Award, an award through IUPUI given to one organization per year. I believe that the admiration and accolades OutCare has received thus far attests to importance and gratitude of such a long-awaited resource. In a perfect world, what would you like to see OutCare become? I realize that OutCare is an initiative that many other states eagerly desire. I hope that OutCare continues to expand into a nationally recognized healthcare equality organization. It is dream of mine that one day OutCare will be leader in LGBTQ healthcare, training medical providers across the country and inspiring communities to deliver high-quality, culturally competent, unbiased healthcare to all.
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politics
We Cannot Abandon O u r Tr a n s g e n d e r F a m i l y by Chris Paulsen
Indy Pride 2016 photo by Mark A. Lee
“Family means no one gets left behind or forgotten.” - David Ogden Stiers
our hearts. It was right to officially add them to our family. And if they are part of our family, they are part of our fight for equality. Period.
I remember the days when we were “gay.” Then, in the 80s, the definition of the word began to slant more toward gay men. So, lesbians decided we wanted equal billing, and it became “gay and lesbian.” About a decade later, bisexuals were added to the mix. The term “Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual” was accurate, yet cumbersome. Voila. “LGB” was born. These three letters became a platform for the fight for equality. We were bound together as a family, wanting the same things as everyone else. Nothing more. Nothing less.
According to the National Transgender Discrimination Survey, 77% of transgender individuals identify as gay. Those who argue that “they’re not one of us” are simply misinformed and miss the point of our efforts. Dropping the “T” and accepting legislation that only protects SOME of us is akin to taking a family member on vacation and leaving him at the hotel in order to get better gas mileage on the way home.
A few years ago, “LGBT” emerged as our new acronym. Transgender individuals have always been in our bars, at our parties, and certainly in
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It’s more than equality. It’s safety. Our transgender brothers and sisters deserve safety in the shopping malls, at the grocery store and when renting an apartment. They deserve safety at work—whether it be in the parking lot, in their cubicle, or in the breakroom with the unending rotation of birthday cake. And they deserve to eat that birthday cake as their own gender. Kit Malone says it best. “As laws stigmatizing and punishing me roll out across the country, I feel more and more unsafe as a trans woman. Now that we are the subject of national debate, I feel all eyes on me in a deeply personal and day-to-day way. Before, people barely recognized that I existed, and there was a kind of safety in that. Today, I feel that the world is populated by people who have been armed with hateful falsehoods
about me, and who are even being provoked to commit violence against me. I’ve always feared violence, but today I feel it more than I ever have.” When a member of our family doesn’t feel safe, we stand beside them and give them strength. In 31 states, it’s still legal to fire someone for being gay or transgender. The result is not just that some of us are forced to remain closeted to find/keep a job. It’s that the transgender members of our family come to work every day portraying someone they’re not. They are our family. How can we not protect them from the inequalities they experience? The transgender unemployment rate is double that of the general public, resulting in them being four times more likely to live in poverty. For those that are lucky enough to be employed, 90% experience discrimination and ha-
rassment at work. Forty-one percent will attempt suicide. One in five have been denied housing, and one in ten have been evicted due to their gender identity. And every single action is legal, with no repercussions.
We wouldn’t have been successful. This “T” segment of our family would fight an uphill battle alone. We must all stand together. Leaving them behind—this part of our family—is not an option.
For those of us in Indiana, the decision to include everyone in the LGBT family in proposed legislation was not made without care and thought. Indiana Senate bill 100, although it was flawed, gave rights to our entire family including those in the transgender community. As in many states, our politicians were uncomfortable with the transgender portion of the bill, so they drafted bill 344, which did NOT include them. We banded together to try to put the transgender community back into the bill, with no success.
Why does the “T” cause such an issue with the legislation? We’ve made great strides over the years in educating the public about gays and lesbians. We’re your brothers, your sisters, your doctors, and your neighbors. It’s time to do the same for the transgender community. They are also our brothers, our sisters, our doctors and our neighbors. We NOW need to provide the same education regarding this segment of our family.
Why not just accept Senate bill 344 and go back and fight for our transgendered community later?
We can’t grab our freedom and walk away without the “T.” Because we ALL deserve the rights that the straight community take for granted every day. Our whole family. As ourselves. Let them eat cake.
health
photo courtesy of Damien Cares Clinic
HIV & Primary Care Under One Roof by Blake Kniffin In August 2015, Damien Cares Clinic opened its doors to begin seeing patients who are living with HIV in Central Indiana. Housed within The Damien Center in Indianapolis’ Holy Cross neighborhood, this new health care clinic offers both HIV care and primary care to patients—a rarity among providers and a distinguishing factor for the newly established organization. Established as part of a $1.3 million capacity building grant from The Health Foundation of Greater Indianapolis, the clinic will offer HIV care, primary care, and transgender care, as well as, in collaboration with The Damien Center, medical case management, mental health and substance abuse counseling services, and access to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) for those at substantial risk for
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contracting HIV. The clinic is open to any individual living with HIV or at high risk of acquiring HIV. Using a model designed to eliminate disparities in healthcare for underserved populations of people living with HIV/AIDS, the clinic’s co-location within The Damien Center is key to maximizing opportunities for clinic patients to access services that improve quality of life and overall wellness. These supportive services range from housing and financial assistance to nutritional support. Through the clinic’s partnership with the Center, all patients of Damien Cares will have access to the full range of services offered by the Center, according to eligibility requirements for each program. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, individuals living with HIV who are on HIV medications and have achieved viral suppression not only experience better personal health, fewer infections, and fewer chronic illnesses—they also decrease the risk of transmitting the virus to others. The partnership established between Damien Cares Clinic and The Damien Center improves accessibility to both medical care and critical supportive services. Improved accessibility to a clinic, mental health services, substance abuse counseling, and medical care coordination improve compliance with medical care and HIV treatment resulting in reduced viral loads, healthier individuals, and a healthier community. Anyone interested in scheduling an appointment or learning more about Damien Cares should contact the clinic at 317-423-0130. Learn more about Damien Cares by visiting our website at www.damiencares.org or like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/damiencaresclinic.
paparazzi
T
he National ROTC celebrated their third annual Diversity Day on July 13th. In addition to having a booth that represented the LGBT community, there were booths from all walks of life, from Native Americans to Asians, Women, and Scotts. It truly was an extremely diverse exhibit of those who serve in our military. Our very own Rhiannon Carlson spoke during the event. She opened up talking about her own experience serving in the Army, followed by what it was like when she first transitioned, and ended with a bit of the history of Transgender individuals serving in the military. Over 300 individuals attended this year’s event, and each one left with their minds opened up just a little bit more to a new way of looking at things. The National Guard is a huge believer that when “organizations embrace Diversity, people are encouraged to excel”. In this way, they are an example to us all.
photos by Mark A. Lee
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politics
Trump & Pence Represent Regressive Approach to LGBT Issues by Josh Peters
I
n their debut as running mates on 60 Minutes, Donald Trump and Mike Pence looked like giddy frat bros suffering from mutual man-crushes; two men meant for each other, politically. Both Trump and Pence have shown contempt for immigrants, expressed support for enhanced interrogation (torture), and made the argument that the issue of Marriage Equality should have been left to the states to decide, despite the historic Supreme Court decision. Donald Trump is clearly willing to adopt ludicrous policy positions if he sees a political gain, and Mike Pence will be happy to oblige. Pence seems to have the ability to take Trump’s gut feelings and turn them into poll tested Koch Brothers axioms. He brings Trump’s bullhorn of bigotry down to a much more acceptable dog-whistle. Pence is the Trump that Trump always wanted to be. If reports of his governing plan are true, Mike Pence will be the de-facto President and Trump the propagandist-in-chief.
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Mike Pence has an even more concrete record of malicious legislation and political hackery than Mr. Trump does. In 2015 Governor Pence and the Republicans in the Indiana General Assembly passed a mean-spirited law of religious refusal called RFRA. This law was born out of the fear that Christian bakers, wedding industry services, and a slew of other “conscietious objectors” might be compelled to serve the LGBT community. Let’s be clear. If your business is open to the public, you must serve ALL of the public regardless of reservations based on religious faith. Your right to deny service to any segment of the public ends the moment you flip the “Open” sign. Any further parsing is discrimination, plain and simple. Gov. Pence has also proven himself the worst kind of political hack, compromising the future of Hoosier children to achieve his political and ideological ends. He launched a relentless assault on the only state-wide elected Democrat, Superintendent of Public Instruction Glenda Ritz, attempting to strip her of all power. Gov. Pence also signed into law a school voucher program that has diverted millions to private religious schools in Indiana. Furthermore, Pence cannot even claim to be a good steward of public funds. After the RFRA debacle, he hired, then fired a high-end PR firm to clean up his mess and repair the state’s image, costing Hoosier tax-payers $365,000 for nothing. Governor Pence further demonstrated his commitment to rightwing ideology when he signed one of the most restrictive abortion bans in the United States, which was later struck down by a Federal Judge. Frighteningly, Gov. Pence is in lock-step with his political party as well. The 2016 Republican Party Platform includes a refusal to accept the Supreme Court’s decision on Marriage Equality, defends laws of religious refusal like Indiana’s RFRA, devalues same-sex parenting, and seeks to preserve the practice of conversion therapy. Mr. Trump sought to strike a softer tone in his RNC acceptance speech, claiming that he is against any group or person who advocates violence against the American people, only
months after suggesting and congratulating violence at his own political rallies. Mr. Trump then attempted to scare the LGBT community into supporting him by promising a tough response to events like the Pulse Nightclub shooting, purposefully pitting us against other minorities in a naked appeal to our very well-founded fears of violence. Politicians who lie so effortlessly and play on voters’ anxiety are unfit for the Presidency. Sadly, this short list of grievances only scratches the surface, but it does demonstrate the brotherhood shared by these two men. Donald Trump and Mike Pence represent the Worst Kind of Reality T.V.: a xenophobic and ideological political actor hiding behind a dangerous demagogue, both masquerading as policy-minded public servants. America is about to get “catfished”. It is our job as Hoosiers to take this critique of Mike Pence national and make sure all Americans know him the way Hoosiers do. How, you ask? Peer-reviewed scientific studies have shown that the most effective way to influence voting behavior is to have conversations by phone or at the door with potential voters. Sick social media burns and protests are fun, but only concrete political engagement can stop Trump/Pence and only electoral victories can change the tone used by our institutions and politicians. Find a candidate you believe in and make phone calls or canvass for them. Talk to your neighbors and family about why Gov. Pence was bad for Indiana and why together they represent a step back for America and our community. If you are unable to do field work, write letters to the editor or write a check to an ally of the LGBT community. Finally, make sure you and everyone you know votes on Tuesday, November 8th. In fact, stop what you are doing right now, open your calendar, and set a reminder to vote! And you know that group text all of your friends are on? Make sure you remind them to vote too! Donald Trump and Mike Pence cannot be allowed so close to institutional power. Our community cannot lose ground on important quality of life issues like marriage, adoption, workplace discrimination, and access to services. So if you value the gains made by the LGBT community to date, you better work!
Don Gummer: Back Home Again An exhibition of eight sculptures by Indianapolis-born, New York-based Don Gummer.
Aug. 31, 2016 to Aug. 7, 2017 On the Indianapolis Cultural Trail: A Legacy of Gene & Marilyn Glick More information: dongummerindy.com Attend the grand opening Aug. 31, 11 am, outside the Indiana Repertory Theatre. Presented by the Central Indiana Community Foundation in honor of The Indianapolis Foundation’s 100th anniversary and in partnership with Indianapolis Cultural Trail, Inc.
Cosmic Runner appears courtesy of Peter Max
Peter Max Exhibit Comes to Indy by Joey Amato
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A
newly-curated collection of artist legend Peter Max’s exquisite paintings will be on exhibition and available for acquisition in a presentation at CV Art Gallery, Zionsville’s premier fine art gallery. The retrospective is a collection of Max’s greatest and most iconic works over the last 50+ years.
These works speak to both a maturation of the artist’s illustrious career, as well as to his formidable training at the 130 yearold Art Students League of New York.
With paintings on exhibition in hundreds of museums and galleries worldwide, Peter Max and his vibrant colors have become part of the fabric of contemporary culture. Max has been successively called a Pop Icon, Neo Fauvist, Abstract Expressionist and the United States “Painter Laureate.” The artist has had the distinct honor of painting the last seven Presidents of the United States and the world’s best-loved celebrities, among them the young sensation Taylor Swift.
Important pieces of the Retrospective Collection and the Masters Series will be available for acquisition in the Indianapolis presentation.
This exhibit features his iconic and best-known pieces as well, among them “Statue of Liberty”, Max’s famous “Flag” pieces, “Umbrella Man” and the prestigious “Cosmic Runner”. There will also be presentations of his celebrity portraiture in Indianapolis, as Peter Max is revered for his celebrity commissions and portraits.
110 South Main St. Zionsville (317) 873-2976 info@cvartandframe.com
Previews begin Saturday, October 1 with a Preview Event Friday, September 30 from 6-8 pm. There are three scheduled Meet the Artist receptions: Friday, October 7 from 7-9 pm, Saturday, October 8 from 4-7 pm, and Sunday, October 9 from 12-2 pm. All artworks are on exhibition and available for acquisition. All appearances are complimentary and open to the public, however, RSVP’s required. For more information, visit www.cvartandframe.com. Love appears courtesy of Peter Max
The Artist has assembled a collection of his greatest and most-revered imagery spanning five decades: from his iconic Pop Art designs commemorating Woodstock to the 2013 unveiling of Max’s design for the cruise ship Breakaway and the 2016 exquisite Masters series. This new exhibition speaks to the evolution and maturation of America’s most popular living Artist. The artist has had the distinct honor of painting seven Presidents of the United States. He has been the Official Artist of the Grammy’s, five NFL Super Bowls, the 2006 Olympics, the World Cup USA, The World Series, The U.S. Open, The Indianapolis 500, The NYC Marathon and The Kentucky Derby. Max’s Art Students League scholarly influence inspired all of his extraordinary artwork, and of late, his new Masters series; his interpretive works of Vincent Van Gogh, Monet, Pablo Picasso, Renoir, and Edgar Degas, conceived in Max’s signature style and colors. UNITE Indianapolis
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food & wine
The Maven’s Cranberry-Orange Chutney on a lovely Fall table setting photo by Karen Kennedy
Flavors of Fall T h e M a v e n’s
by Karen Kennedy
S
ummer is indeed fabulous in the Circle City-fruity cocktails on outdoor patios, bike rides, brats on the grill, baseball games, replete with Sun King and peanuts, and an amazing array of summer art festivals.
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But for those of us who love fall, it can’t come soon enough. Given the unpredictability of our Indiana weather of late, we could have an amazing Indian summer that ends in a stunning show of foliage, weeks of rain that slide into frosty flurries or, if we’re very, very, lucky, we could have a textbook definition of fall; crisp, cool days that call for hauling out our favorite time-worn sweaters and boots, long walks in one of our amazing parks with leaves crunching under our feet, and of course, all things pumpkin.
But let’s look beyond the obvious this year...
Curried Cranberry-Orange Chutney
Yes, pumpkin pie is de rigueur at Thanksgiving. Or, if we’re feeling particularly fancy, perhaps a pumpkin roulade or bread pudding. But let’s cut to the chase. What we’re really feeling like right now is a cocktail. Isn’t that right, dolls? So let’s take that passion for pumpkin and put it where it belongs—in our glass, with some ice and some bourbon. Make a batch of pumpkin shrub and try our recipe for a Fall Fizzy and you’ll see fall in a whole new light.
Ingredients: • Two cups fresh cranberries (one bag is about three cups; use the extras to decorate your fall table!) • Four oranges, peeled and segmented • ½ cup golden raisins • One medium apple, peeled and chopped • ½ cup white vinegar • 1 ¼ cup sugar • 1 T curry powder • ¾ t. cinnamon • 1 t. ground ginger • ¼ t. ground clove
Pumpkin Shrub Ingredients: • Two 15-ounce cans of pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling, just pumpkin) • Two cups of white vinegar • Two cups of sugar Put the pumpkin into a quart-sized jar. Heat the vinegar until just less than boiling. Pour vinegar over pumpkin, leaving at least 1/4 inch of space in the jar. Wipe rim clean and cap tightly. Refrigerate for 24 hours.
Put all ingredients into a soup pot. Bring to a boil, stir and reduce to a simmer. Cook for about an hour, until liquid is reduced and chutney is thickened. Double the recipe to have extra to freeze! Set a Beautiful Fall Table:
Strain the chilled mixture through a coffee filter into a sauce pan and bring to a boil. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved. Remove from heat, cool and pour into a new, clean container. Now you’re ready for a cocktail!
Fall doesn’t just have to be about mums. The Maven’s favorite fall table features mini gourds and little pumpkins, with sunflowers. But add in something that sparkles—silver or gold chargers or some mercury glass for the perfect juxtaposition of rustic and elegant.
Fall Fizzy
About the Maven:
In a rocks glass filled with ice, add: • 1 ½ oz. Bourbon • 1 T. Pumpkin Shrub • Top with sparkling water and stir
Karen Kennedy, the Circle City’s Maven of Merriment, is the owner of Small Potatoes, an Indianapolis-based catering and event planning company. She, along with her merry band of foodies, creates unique and beautiful custom events for groups that are ready for something new and different. Her blog, “The Maven of Merriment,” offers “tips and tricks to make your life more stylish and delish.”
Garnish with a sprig of rosemary Another one of the Maven’s favorite fall flavors is cranberry. But the sticky, gelatinous tube that slides out of the Ocean Spray can, permanently etched with the ridges from its aluminum prison makes the Maven want to cry. Or drink another Fall Fizzy. So let’s branch out this year and make a super easy and amazingly delicious Curried Cranberry-Orange Chutney that can be used as a sauce for your turkey (or your chicken or pork) and can also hop right into the dessert realm, as a topping for cheesecake or a quick tartlet filling. And it freezes beautifully, so make a big batch and pop the other half of it in the freezer to enjoy at Christmas!
She offers “Cooking with the Maven” classes for groups of up to twelve, in the Maven’s kitchen or in your own. She is also the creator of “Smarty Party,” a state-of-theart, custom game show experience, perfect for team building, wedding rehearsals, VIP client events, staff parties, birthdays or anniversaries. Visit www.smallpotatoesindy.com for more information.
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Your
Wedding by KAHN’S CATERING
Courtesy of KOLE Photography
No matter your style, you’ll feel at home …from modern to historic, we have the perfect location to celebrate your love
Courtesy of Crystal Keyes Photography
Whether it’s one of our exclusive museum landmarks or our signature lakeside venue, Montage, we’ll help you find the perfect location for your very special day.
Count on our decades of experience to make your wedding day all you’ve hoped it would be... and more.
Kahn’s Catering Featured Venues
Montage | Eiteljorg Museum | Indiana State Museum | Indianapolis Museum of Art FORUM Conference & Events Center | Dallara IndyCar Factory kahnscatering.com | (317) 577-3663
health
Have We Become Victims of our Own Devices? by Matt Grant, Psy.D., HSPP
22
Our relationship with the entertainment industry is like a wild fire. It spreads quickly, devours resources, and once started, it can be almost impossible to keep in check.
Attempting to keep up with the latest experiences, newest phone apps, the smartest phones, gaming platforms, and technology can certainly make one’s head spin like Linda Blair’s in The Exorcist. Yikes! And because of the evolving entertainment industry, albeit not to blame them, we have somehow lost our ability along the way to be intentional with our use of entertainment.
Does it have to be harmful? Well, no. Not if you’ve done the work to keep it contained. But that’s difficult to do, and it requires forethought. Remember Smoky the Bear’s famous line, “only you can prevent forest fires”? What would he think of today’s over-abundance of entertainment-seekers, many of whom can’t even put their devices down when they’re out for an afternoon hike?
Being intentional means being deliberate in the choices you make in the type, amount, and kind of entertainment you use. But while you’re scrolling through Facebook, rolling your eyes or LOL, grab the popcorn because this reading is going to be entertaining!
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Life has become one big entertainment experience from dusk ‘til dawn, literally. It’s no wonder we can’t focus, concentrate, stay on task, or get adequate sleep because our minds are constantly divided between the real world and fantasy. When was the last time you weren’t multitasking? Can you even get through a show on Netflix without pulling up your social media newsfeed on your phone or taking a whirl at the latest level of Candy Crush or Trivia Crack?
Let’s not even get into the litany of social improprieties suffered as a result of being bombarded with entertainment options. For example, failing to acknowledge your server who has approached your table to take your order. It’s like a nightmare and we’re being chased by Pokémon and his entourage of monsters. Have we become victims of our own devices? Nobody likes to think of themselves as a victim, but honestly, we really have to ask ourselves, “Is the amount of time I spend with entertainment a problem?” And maybe more importantly, how can you tell? If you’re using entertainment more often than not as a way to escape from your emotional world or to avoid responsibilities altogether, I’d say there’s likely a problem. For instance, are you having Netflix binges on a regular basis? Or neglecting your home because you have to be at the latest event, coolest restaurant, or upcoming concert? Nowadays, over-committed is the norm. We’re constantly engaging and interacting on so many platforms that it feels like we’re building our own real life SimCity. And after building what feels like a city in a day or so, who wouldn’t want to escape reality? It’s one thing to disconnect and enjoy some entertainment, but it’s something quite different to remain disconnected and caught up in a world of fantasy and numbness. People who retreat into their entertainment for hours at a time describe this experience as being “sucked in”. Is there anything wrong with that? Well, it all comes down to intention. Some people might set aside hours in a day for an entertainment activity they’ve been looking forward to. They plan for it. It is intentional, and they are present. But
getting sucked in isn’t something you do with intent. It’s not you being in charge—it’s you checking out and letting your entertainment be mindless, not mindful. There isn’t anything inherently wrong with entertainment. It has been around for centuries, after all. The methods have changed, but the motivation has remained the same: a bit of escapism and a way to relax outside the daily drudge. But our access to entertainment has reached unprecedented levels, and it’s time to dial it back. Entertainment is meant to be fun. It shouldn’t leave you feeling numb, depleted or guilty. So how do you approach entertainment with intention? By putting yourself back in the driver’s seat. 1. Create boundaries. If you’re at work, you should probably be working. But if you get a few breaks and a lunch and you want to play Pokémon Go, then have at it. I see this one a lot...people at dinner on their phones. When eating, put your phone away. Let your guest know that they’re important and a priority. It’s amazing how much time gets lost when you’re picking up your phone every 5 minutes. And turn off those flippin’ notifications, they’re so distracting and time consuming! 2. Escape reality with intention. Instead of watching your favorite TV series while working on a project around your home, sit down on something comfy, grab a beverage and maybe a snack, and focus on the show. If the TV series is something you enjoy, then make it a priority and schedule it out. Record your shows and watch them later when you can devote your undivided attention. You’ll be glad you did.
3. Use entertainment to inspire, motivate, educate, and encourage. There’s a lot of negativity out in the universe more recently, so use some of your free time soaking up all the warm and fuzzies out there. To do this, check out some of the phone apps on quotes and affirmations and post them on your social media. This is a great way to re-energize and rejuvenate your mind and body. 4. Don’t allow entertainment to consume your life. If the amount and time you spend with your entertainment of choice is impacting your work, relationships, and mental health, then it’s likely a problem. If you’re curious how much time you spend with entertainment, record the time and activities you do in a given week. I bet you’ll be surprised! 5. Take a break. If you feel your entertainment use is out of control, take some time away and re-calibrate and come back with a game plan. Most people who take some time away report feeling glad that they did. Sometimes just separating from something for a brief time can be a grounding experience. Entertainment should be fun, exhilarating at times, satisfying and fulfilling. It is supposed to give us some respite from the monotony of life. Our use of entertainment doesn’t have to feel like a possession, and if it does, then it’s possible you’re misappropriating the purpose of entertainment. Take some time to re-evaluate your use of entertainment and reflect on ways you might be able to use entertainment more intentionally. And P.S., if Pokémon starts talking to you and chasing you, then you should probably reach out to a licensed therapist for some guidance and direction.
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arts & culture
Survivors Learn to Express W h a t C a n’t B e S a i d by Mark A. Lee Maggie, a young mother, attended Open Art Studio on a rainy Monday evening with her four sons. Seated in the back of the room, Maggie briefly looked at the art materials in front of her before laying her head down on the table. The boys selected a few materials and began to draw in silence. The Julian Center’s art therapy program adds a unique opportunity to the comprehensive, trauma-informed care model offered to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Led by two licensed mental health counselors board certified in art therapy, survivors and their children are able to engage in a process of healing that some find more manageable than traditional talk therapy. The next week, Maggie and her sons returned to Open Art Studio. While she used colored chalk pastels to draw, the boys smiled and interacted with her. Eventually she laid her head down on the table, at which time the children became silent. But over the course of several more weeks, Maggie spent each session trying a new media and increasing her participation time. Her children, meanwhile, spent each week sculpting animals, houses, and people from clay. Art therapists provide both individual and group art therapy experiences to adults and children. Adult survivors working with their children learn to give and receive empathy and form stronger bonds with their children. Children are able to express through art what is too painful to say and have their communication be acknowledged and affirmed. Cathy Malchiodi, a world-renowned art therapist specializing in treating trauma, has shown that creative arts therapies have a unique place in treating trauma resulting from domestic violence. Eventually Maggie joined her children using clay. As the family worked, they talked about how creating art made them feel. It provided an escape from their stressful lives, and allowed the kids to “just be kids” again. Art therapy provided a healthy emotional outlet for them individually and collectively, giving them the opportunity to give shape to the trauma they had experienced. During their last week of attending Open Art Studio, Maggie and the boys worked together on a joint project: a clay sculpture of a large umbrella shielding five small figures, keeping them “safe from the rain.” Research confirms that much of what happens in the traumatic moments survivors experience is stored visually. Survivors of domestic violence often do not have the tools and/or words to make sense of what they have been through and to reestablish a sense of safety. But the ability to break the intergenerational cycle of violence is dependent on their doing just that. Art therapy allows for images to speak what the victims have not been able to say. The healing elements and sensory comfort of art materials serve as a vehicle for hope and healing for our clients. If you would like to make a donation in support of The Julian Center’s art therapy program, please visit www.juliancenter.org or call (317) 941-2200.
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pictured (top to bottom): Antonio, We-ving-a Collaborative Mandala, & Inner Elephant. Photos by Gina Baird
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Xavier Sayeed Living Outside the Box by Mark A. Lee Growing up as a Muslim in Southport Indiana, Xavier Sayeed has never been quite like anyone else. And that’s OK with him. “It doesn’t bother me to not fit in a box. I’ve always been ok with being a little bit quirky and weird, and I’m still the same way as I always have been”, said Sayeed. “But as you mature thru puberty, and things like that, you are kind of expected to take on specific roles a little bit more, and you’re not just a cute kid running
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around in this androgynous body with no specific roles or responsibilities. Once you’re hitting puberty, and people are in relationships, it becomes a lot more apparent.” When Sayeed was a freshman at Perry Meridian High School, he was hit in the face with reality. “I was trying on my orchestra dress, and I looked at myself in the mirror, and I was like ‘I feel like a boy in a dress’. That was my thought. And it was such a weird thing to think. Nothing registered, because I had no clue what that was… what transgender was, or what it really meant.” Sayeed had heard about it, but it wasn’t something people really talked about. At least it wasn’t four years ago. Shortly after this revelation, Sayeed started binding his chest. He came across a video about binding on YouTube, and decided to give it a try. And
the moment he did, all he could think was “This makes me feel really good.” By the end of his sophomore year, Sayeed worked up the courage to tell his mother. “He probably told me in April, and by July we were starting hormones,” said his mother, Jami Sayeed. “And that’s the truth of it. Once I digested it, I researched, and I knew ‘OK, if I don’t assist him to transition, he’s not going to have a happy life.’” “I think it was really lucky for me that my mom understood how dire of a need it can be to need the assistance right away,” said Sayeed. “Because a lot of people don’t get that, and they end up having spiraling mental health problems because of it. It’s one of the reasons there’s such a large suicide rate for transgender people, because it really is such a dire need to get to that place where you can feel comfortable just living your life.” For Sayeed’s mother, it was simply a matter of wanting her happy go lucky child back. There was a period from the time he was 13 till he came out to her that he was obviously unhappy, and she couldn’t stand the thought of watching him suffer any more than he had to. Prior to this time, there were signs his mother saw that he didn’t fit into a box of what others would characterize as female. He liked to wear men’s clothing, or run outside with no shirt and a baseball hat on backwards. “He never really fit into a box anyway. I mean, he was perpetually outside of the box since birth,” said Sayeed’s mother. “You have these individuals, they tell you to think outside of the box. During his training at school, they would say, ‘Can you get a little bit more IN the box?’” Shortly after his transition, Sayeed’s life changed for the better. “Once I transitioned, I did theater, I did choir, jazz band, orchestra… I was President of a school club, I was President of a service project, and Vice President of Best Buddies,” said Sayeed. He
Xavier and his mother, Jami Sayeed photo by Mark A. Lee
wanted to do these things before, but was afraid of drawing attention to himself. He didn’t feel comfortable with who he was at the time, so those things remained dormant within him. Afterwards, “it just kind of erupted! It was kind of a good feeling to be able to do that.” At the end of the day, he had the respect of his peers and his teachers. Even members of the Muslim community respected him, and allowed him to worship with the other men. Sayeed thinks perhaps the best thing he ever could have done for himself was “just live my life and love other people, and try to understand people the best that I could… and hope they would return the favor by trying to understand me a little bit.” Sayeed’s mother isn’t quite as patient as he is, and admits she still has a lot to learn, “I just want to beat everyone up when they’re mean. My instinct is ‘I just want to get them’. And he’s like ‘You know, I’ve got this, and it’s OK’,” said Jami. “He’s very patient. And he just kind of a works on a person with kindness. ‘Let me greet you… Oh, you’re carrying a box. Let me carry that for you’ He shows them kindness and respect, and he always gets it back in return, ten-fold!” It’s amazing what you can do with the power of your example, and just treating people by your own standards, and not following theirs.
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paparazzi
Indy Pride 2016 photos by Mark A. Lee
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Indianapolis Symphonic Choir t o Pe r f o r m a t C a r n e g i e H a l l by Blake Kniffin
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he Indianapolis Symphonic Choir will make its return to New York City’s Carnegie Hall in October 2016 for the first time since 1978. Conducted by Indianapolis Symphonic Choir Artistic Director Eric Stark, currently in his second decade with the 79-year-old choral ensemble, the Choir will perform Mohammed Fairouz’s first Oratorio, “Zabur’, originally commissioned and debuted by the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir alongside the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra in April 2015 at historic Hilbert Circle Theatre in downtown Indianapolis. The performance will be the New York City debut of “Zabur”. As the Symphonic Choir celebrates its 80th anniversary season, a large-scale project such as this is fitting. Joined by the well-respected Indianapolis Children’s Choir, founded 30 years ago with involvement from the Symphonic Choir, the performance will also include “Les Illuminations” for orchestra and tenor, written by 20th century English composer Benjamin Britten. “This is no small achievement! The opportunity to represent the entire Indianapolis community at Carnegie Hall represents a clarion call to the nation and, perhaps even to the world: Indianapolis is a community rich with innovative arts, and we think everyone needs to know this,” states Artistic Director Eric Stark. “Only a few choruses in the nation have the opportunity to present a concert at Carnegie Hall, let alone to perform the New York debut of a piece they have commissioned.” “Financially, artistically, logistically – by any measure – this is a major undertaking,” adds Executive Director Michael Pettry. “The Symphonic Choir last performed at Carnegie nearly 40 years ago, and few other Indy arts institutions have taken the stage at Carnegie since then. It’s up to us to dream big and then to execute at the highest level when it comes to projects of this magnitude.” Carnegie Hall has witnessed some of the biggest names in music and the arts over the years including, Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, the New York Philharmonic, Pavarotti, Yo-Yo Ma, and others.
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Described by Gramophone as “a post-millennial Schubert,” Mohammed Fairouz is an adept and accomplished writer for the voice with hundreds of art songs to his credit. For “Zabur,” Fairouz looked to Stravinsky’s Latin “Symphony of Psalms” and Bernstein’s Hebrew “Chichester Psalms” as models. “I was eager to bring my own cultural dimension to the Psalms,” he said. “By bringing back the essential Arabic aspect of the Psalms as well as by setting the ancient texts in a contemporary environment, “Zabur” attempts to take the Psalms ‘off the shelf ’ and restore their original form as raw human poetic documents.” The performance will feature internationally renowned tenor Thomas Cooley, and bass-baritone Michael Kelley who debuted the role in “Zabur” in Indianapolis in April 2015. The New York Citybased Mimesis Ensemble orchestra will accompany, dedicated to the mastery of music from the 20th and 21st centuries and familiar with much of Fairouz’s work. For more information, visit www.indychoir.org or the Carnegie Hall website. Pictured: Indianapolis Symphony Choir Performs at Colts Game. Photo courtesy of ISC.
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arts & culture
Fall Arts Guide Visitors will enter the exhibit by stepping through a misty image of the building, which was located on Pearl Street in Indianapolis. Once inside the space, they will be a guest of Eli Lilly and Company headquarters. Visitors will engage in handson activities related to the early business of distilling medicinal herbs and plants and hand-rolling pills. Visitors will interact with actors portraying Colonel Lilly, his son J.K. Lilly and others.
Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure at the Eitlejorg photo courtesy of Eiteljorg
Indiana Historical Society You Are There: Eli Lilly at the Beginning October 1 - January 20, 2018 New from the Indiana Historical Society’s (IHS’s) award-winning You Are There series is an exhibit fusing the personal story of Colonel Eli Lilly with the launch of what was to
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become a successful global pharmaceutical corporation. You Are There: Eli Lilly at the Beginning will take visitors back in time to Colonel Lilly’s business during its second year of operation in 1877. The exhibit will tell the story of his eventual success after overcoming several challenges in his personal life and career.
You Are There: Eli Lilly at the Beginning, presented by Eli Lilly and Company Foundation, runs from Oct. 1, 2016 through Jan. 20, 2018 at the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center. The History Center is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesdays through Saturdays. For more information about the exhibition or other IHS offerings, call (317) 2321882 or visit IHS online at www.indianahistory.org. The Hoosier Hardwood Photo Project: A Journey to Indiana’s Historic High School Gyms October 1 - November 12 The new Indiana Historical Society (IHS) exhibition, The Hoosier Hardwood Photo Project: A Journey to Indiana’s Historic High School Gyms,
showcases the work of photographers Michael E. Keating and Christopher Smith. The photographers crisscrossed Indiana capturing images of gymnasiums, from some of the country’s largest to those that are little more than a hoop attached to a tree. Their images captured a wide-range of Hoosier basketball moments, from the thrill of victory to the bitterness of defeat. “In 2013, we began a journey to document some of the places where high school basketball has lived,” said Smith, the project’s founder. “By the summer of 2016 we had traveled more than 10,000 miles in all kinds of weather, visited 130 gyms, watched countless hours of basketball and shot more than 150,000 digital frames. In the process, we have become true believers that this game holds an important place in the history of the Hoosier state.” The Hoosier Hardwood Photo Project: A Journey to Indiana’s Historic High School Gyms will be on display from Saturday, Oct. 1 through Saturday, Nov. 12, at the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center. The exhibit, which features 42 photographs, is included with admission to the Indiana Experience, open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesdays through Saturdays. Eiteljorg Museum Quest for the West Art Show and Sale September 11 – October 9 The Western art community will converge on Indianapolis as one of the top Western art sales in the country, the 11th Annual Quest for the West Art Show and Sale, takes place at the Eiteljorg Museum of
American Indians and Western Art. Opening weekend activities include one of the largest art sales in Indianapolis. Quest for the West art remains on display to the public September 11 – October 9. Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure November 19 – January 16, 2017 One of Indianapolis’ favorite holiday traditions returns. Immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind locomotive wonderland as model trains race from Indianapolis through the American West, passing exquisitely-reproduced icons, including Lucas Oil Stadium, Monument Circle, the Grand Canyon, Yosemite National Park, Golden Gate Bridge, the Las Vegas Strip and more. Indiana Repertory Theatre The Three Musketeers: Adapted from the novel by Alexandre Dumas by Catherine Bush September 20 - October 15 When an eager young lad from the provinces comes to Paris to join the king’s guard, he finds intrigue, love, and plenty of crossed swords. A legendary tale of danger and daring, royalty and romance vibrantly comes to life on the IRT stage. Finding Home: Indiana at 200 - A collaboration from writers across the state October 18 - November 13 Delve into Indiana’s beloved icons and hidden gems, the celebrated and the scandalous, with a bicentennial collection created by writers from all over the state. Featuring songs by Hoosier singer-songwriter Tim Grimm, this multifaceted look at Indiana’s life and times mixes
music and history, comedy and drama, fact and fable. Downtown Indy October 7 IADAD First Friday Art Tours are proud to present “Flight of Fancy“: A group show featuring artists who explore subconscious thoughts, dreamlike scenes, and surreal visions” at Indiana Landmarks Center’s Rapp Family Gallery. An opening reception is planned for Friday, October 7 from 6-9 pm at Rapp Family Gallery located at 1201 Central Avenue. The exhibition will include works from Brinton Farrand, Amy Ward, Lisa Sears, David Humbert, Gary Lynn, Deidre Bush, Nathan Underneath, Andre Parnell, Matthew Sheek, JD Bills, Sarah Dolezal, Adam Kiger, Jeannie Bogue, Mason Gray, Steve Sickles, Parrish Cooper, Tomas Howie, Gary Gee, Steve Otis, Russell Frantom, Jenna Mishelow, and Earle Butterworth. In addition, the event will feature a fashion show from Wazeil, David Slivka and Tyson White as well as a performance art piece by Cuong Koi Tran and the [ICNH] Dance Crew. More than 25 downtown galleries and art venues are participating in the IDADA First Friday Art Tours, which continue on a monthly basis the first Friday of each month. IDADA, which is as an active arts organization with the mission of promoting downtown Indianapolis artists and art galleries, presents the tour to promote visual art in a manner similar to walking tours in cities across the United States. We encourage patrons to walk or drive throughout the downtown cultural districts, and visit the city’s diverse visual art offerings.
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travel & leisure
Destination: Thailand & Cambodia by Joey Amato
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hailand is one of those places you always dream of but for some reason or another never get to experience. For the past decade I have wrestled with the idea but have always thought of an excuse not to go... it’s too far, it’s too expensive, my mother would be panicking the entire time, etc. One Sunday morning in November, I was scrolling through travel deal websites and I came across Gate 1 Travel’s Thailand and Cambodia adventure. The stars finally aligned and I decided to take the plunge. This would be the biggest trip of my life and my first time visiting Asia. The days leading up to our departure felt like years. Hours of research – and partial worry – led to over-packing. I purchased everything from insect repellant wipes to water shoes to linen pants – which proved to be quite comfortable in 100 degree weather. Let’s get one thing clear, the flight to and from Thailand is awful. Nashville to LAX. LAX to Shanghai. Shanghai to Bangkok. By the time we arrived at our hotel, we had been traveling for 40 hours. Yes, there are easier ways to get there, but we were all about making this trip as inexpensive as possible. On our first morning in Bangkok, we were greeted by Otto, our incredible tour guide pictured: Angkor Wat
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photo by Joey Amato
from Gate 1 Travel. Otto stayed with us for our entire two week journey, which began with a city tour of Bangkok. First stop, Wat Po, the oldest and largest temple in the city, with the giant Reclining Buddha serving as the highlight of the temple. At over 150 feet long and almost 40 feet high, the statue is a sight to be seen. You really don’t appreciate the sheer size until you’re standing next to it. Later that afternoon, we entered Wat Phra Kaew, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, as well as the elaborate 18th century Grand Palace. This attraction was the most crowded of any on the entire trip almost to the point of being uncomfortable. Those who don’t fare well in crowds should avoid the palace unless you visit in low season. About one hour outside of Bangkok is Ayutthaya Historical Park, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city was once the former capital of Thailand. We visited Bang Pa-In Palace, a collection of beautiful buildings in various architectural styles, surrounded by a lake. Originally built by King Prasat Tong in 1632, Bang Pa-In served as the Royal Summer Palace for the Thai Kings. A few miles away is Chai Wattanaram Temple, built by King Prasat Tong to honor his mother and conceived as a replica of the Angkor Temple in Cambodia. What I began to notice is how friendly and relaxed the people of Thailand are. Nearly everyone greeted you with a smile. The food in Thailand is also delicious and quite affordable. A great meal will cost you approximately $3. A word of caution; health regulations are not as strict as they are in the United States. You may see things that restaurant owners could never get
away with here, but I guarantee, the food is safe and delicious – even the street food. Traditional Thai food is not too far off from what we are used to. Pad Thai is plentiful and available almost anywhere. Visit the Old Town of Sukhothai with its impressive Historical Park, immaculately restored and set among leafy hills and peaceful lotus ponds, yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site on our adventure. At this astonishing site, most of the remains of the original city can be seen. Marvel at the ancient Buddha figures, palaces, temples and historical monuments. In case you haven’t noticed, there are Buddha’s everywhere! Some of our most unique experiences came in the city of Chiang Mai. We had the option to visit Elephant Kingdom, a sanctuary dedicated solely to elephant conservation. One of the greatest experiences of the entire trip was having the opportunity to bathe the elephants in the river and hand feed these gentle giants. Just a few miles away is Tiger Kingdom, a popular destination where guests can interact with tigers ranging from babies to what the park called giant tigers. I wasn’t exactly sure what a giant tiger was until I saw it. After you choose your experience, you are escorted into a cage by a handler carrying nothing but a tiny bamboo stick. After about 2-3 minutes of being in the cage, your initial fears begin to subside and you start engaging more with the cats, some of which are perfectly fine napping in the afternoon and posing for photos. Others however, are a bit more active and would prefer to play in their pool. Being able to be so close to these majestic animals is definitely an experience you should not miss.
Also in Chiang Mai is Basil Cooking School, run by a hilarious young lady named Apple. No more than 8 guests are invited at a time to learn how to cook traditional Thai cuisine. The school, run out of Apple’s home, provides a wonderful environment as guests dine family-style around a long wooden table. Each guest can choose six items to make from a list of about 20 dishes and includes various types of curry, spring rolls and coconut rice. The cost of the school is about $25 but was worth every penny. We ended our tour in Siem Reap, Cambodia and a visit to Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat. The complex is designated as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This sprawling city, built by Khmer Kings was once home to more than one million people at the height of the empire. Within the fortified city of Angkor Thom, we visited the Elephants Terrace and Terrace of the Leper King, all adorned with dramatic bas-reliefs. Bayon Temple is the highlight of Angkor Thom, which contains 172 giant smiling stone faces. Some of the monuments remain untouched and the surrounding jungle encases the ancient structures. The highpoint of the day is the visit to stunning Angkor Wat, a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. World-famous for its beauty and splendor, Angkor Wat has the longest continuous bas-relief in the world, which runs along the entire outer gallery walls, narrating stories from Hindu mythology. This journey is one that you should make when you are young and healthy. Don’t wait until you’re retired, as much of the trip is physically intensive and you will need to be in good health to enjoy all of the experiences. To book your adventure visit www.gate1travel.com.
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BUSINESS DIRECTORY ARTS & CULTURE
HEALTH & WELLNESS
The Cabaret Box Office (317) 275-1169 www.TheCabaret.org
Kahn’s Catering Jayne Reed (317) 577-3663 www.KahnsCatering.com
Chernoff Cosmetic Surgeons Greg Chernoff, MD & Julie Leonetti, RN (317) 573-8899 www.DrChernoff.com
Description: “Sophisticated and swanky, The Cabaret offers unforgettable nights of song with captivating, world-class Broadway, jazz, and cabaret performers, up close and personal,” says Shannon Forsell, Artistic Director and CEO of The Cabaret. All performances are open to the public. Food and libations are available at each performance. Performances take place on the third floor of the historic Columbia Club, located at 121 Monument Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46204.
Description: Kahn’s Catering sets the standard for Indianapolis catering and event planning. Our clients trust us to play a part in their most important days. As a full service caterer, we can accommodate all your needs for your next reception, gala or corporate gathering. Simply choose one of our preferred venues or a location special to you and rely on us for all your event needs. We are the exclusive caterer at the Eiteljorg Museum, the Indianapolis Museum of Art, the Indiana State Museum, and Montage.
Description: Dr. Chernoff is a Triple Board Certified Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon with over 20 years of specialized expertise in cosmetic procedures essential to and affirming the transitional journey of transgender patients. Dr. Chernoff combines meticulous surgical techniques with the latest non-surgical therapies to give his patients consistent rejuvenation results. For over 20 years, Chernoff Cosmetic Surgery, Laser, and Wellness Center has brought state-of-the-art procedures and exceptional patient care to Indiana, California, and recently China. Our center offers all options for both surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures. Ask about our UNITE publication new patient offer.
Best In Show Pet Portraits Karen Seltzer (317) 413-5794 www.BestInShowPetPortraits.com Description: Custom portraits from your pet photos by Indianapolis artist, Karen Seltzer. A portrait is a special gift for a pet lover. Fetch one now! Dance Kaleidoscope (317) 940-6555 www.DanceKal.org Description: Dance Kaleidoscope (DK) is a professional contemporary dance company in Indianapolis, celebrating their 45th season. David Hochoy just celebrated his 25th season as the company’s Artistic Director. DK presents four major productions each season at Indiana Repertory Theatre, plus several additional shows outside their normal season. Check their website to learn more. Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art (317) 636-WEST www.Eiteljorg.org Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra (317) 639-4300 www.IndianapolisSymphony.org
CHURCH St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Rev. John Denson, Rector (317) 253-1277 www.StPaulsIndy.org
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FINANCIAL SERVI CES Personal Benefits Service Jay Cox, Certified Retirement Financial Advisor (317) 774-9170 or toll free (866) 977-9170 www.PersonalBenefitsService.com Description: Free help with Turning 65 / Medicare enrollments; learn to understand and select from all the different choices. Member, Indy Pride and Rainbow Chamber.
FLORIST/WEDDING SERVICES Coby Palmer Designs Coby Palmer FlowersByCoby@aol.com Description: Coby Palmer Designs has been serving he community for over 25 years. From daily deliveries to weddings, corporate events. We take pride to make sure it is a signature arrangement. Sanctuary on Penn J. Wheeler or Marcia Rolfingsmeyer, Office Manager (317) 602-3264 www.IndySanctuary.com Description: Inside of a beautiful church built in 1875, The Sanctuary on Penn has everything you need for both your outdoor or indoor wedding ceremony and reception. Walk in the bright red doors, down the dark mahogany floored aisle, and stand in front of an exquisite stain glass window with your soon to be betrothed to say your happy “I do’s” at the charming Sanctuary on Penn.
Eskenazi Health (317) 880-0000 www.EskenaziHealth.edu Description: As one of only four health care facilities in Indiana to be named Leaders in LGBT Healthcare Equality by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation, Eskenazi Health provides high-quality, cost-effective, patient-centered health care to the residents of Marion County and Central Indiana. Nationally recognized programs include a Level I trauma center, regional burn center, comprehensive senior care program, women’s and children’s services, teen and adolescent care programs, Eskenazi Health Midtown Community Mental Health, and a network of primary care sites known as Eskenazi Health Center. The Eskenazi Health Center currently hosts one of the few Transgender Clinics in the country. The Julian Center Jennifer Reister (317) 920-9320 (24/7 Crisis Line) (317) 941-2200 (Non-Emergency Line) www.JulianCenter.org Description: The Julian Center provides comprehensive services to domestic violence and sexual assault survivors of all gender identities and sexual orientation as well as any age, religion, and economic circumstance. Our programs include our 24-hour Crisis Line, Emergency Shelter, Transitional Housing, Permanent Supportive Housing, Legal Services, Clinical Services, Extended Support Advocacy, Empowerment Programming, Sexual Assault Services, and Law Enforcement Advocacy.
LEGAL SERVICES Blackwell Burke & Ramsey, P.C. Jeffrey E. Ramsey (317)635-5005 www.bbrlawpc.com Description: Blackwell, Burke & Ramsey, P.C. is a boutique law firm in Indianapolis, IN that specializes in business law, banking law and creditor’s rights. As a small firm, they have the ability to offer their clients the attention and dedication needed for every aspect of their business. Blackwell, Burke & Ramsey, P.C. serves the entire state of Indiana in state and federal courts. Their team is diversely seasoned in all the legal nuances any business may encounter.
LGBT ORGANIZATION Spencer Pride, Inc. Jonathan Balash (812) 652-5000 www.SpencerPride.org Description: Spencer Pride Inc. is an organization focused on educating the public about rural LGBTQI people & issues in an effort to make Indiana a more welcoming place. Spencer Pride’s annual festival is the largest small-town LGBTQI Pride Festival in the Midwest. In 2016, Spencer Pride opens an LGBTQI community center making Spencer, Indiana the smallest town in America with its own center.
Basecamp Business Consulting
Helping Your Company Reach Its Peak (361) 676-0504 | albert@awbasecamp.com
Norman R. Brandenstein, L.M.H.C. Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Serving the Central Indiana GLBTQ community for over 14 years. 9135 N. Meridian Street, Suite A-9 Indianapolis, IN 46260
Confidential Voice Mail: (317) 767-0273
MEDIA & ADVERTISING Optimedia Casey Duckworth or Weston de Raismes (317) 639-5135 www.Optimedia-US.com Description: Optimedia is part of the Publicis Groupe, the largest media agency group in the US. Yet we operate as an independent company with an individual focus and stand-alone buying. This structure affords us the best of both worlds— the benefit of significant resources, and the agility and flexibility that comes with being a tight-knit team.
Be a part of the UNITE Magazine LGBT business directory. Email joey@unitemag.com for more information.
Have More FUN at Your Next Event!
PERFECT FOR:
• Team Building • VIP Customer Events • New Hire Orientation • Training Reinforcement • Staff Parties • Birthdays & Anniversaries • Wedding Rehearsals Book your Smarty Party Custom Game Show with the “Maven of Merriment,” Karen Kennedy 317.515.7414 • karen@smallpotatoesindy.com
Smarty Party is a Small Potatoes production
paparazzi
Circle City Softball League photos by Mark A. Lee
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tarted 8 years ago by Dave Piccolo and Bradley Anspaugh, the Circle City Softball League is now a part of Circle City Pride, and sports 9 teams playing in the League. As of this writing, Team Tini, and Team 45 Degrees are getting ready to duke it out as the best team in the League. It’s all done in the name of fun, and anyone (including our straight allies) can play.
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| UNITE Indianapolis
Surgical & Non-Surgical
COSMETIC OPTIONS for
TRANSITIONING Women & Men
Treatments Offered with Compassionate Care FACE, NECK, EYEBROW & EYELID LIFT JAW & FOREHEAD REDUCTION THYROID CARTILAGE SCULPTING FACIAL IMPLANTS RHINOPLASTY & NOSE RESHAPING BODY SCULPTING & SHAPING BREAST AUGMENTATION OR REDUCTION FOLLICULAR UNIT HAIR TRANSPLANT NON-SURGICAL INJECTABLES LASER HAIR REMOVAL MAKE UP LESSONS
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Dr. Chernoff is a Triple Board Certified Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. For over 20 years, Chernoff Cosmetic Surgery, Laser, and Wellness Center has brought state-of-the-art procedures and exceptional patient care to Indiana, California, and China. Dr. Chernoff has over 20 years of specialized expertise in cosmetic procedures essential to and affirming the transitional journey of transgender patients. Dr. Chernoff combines meticulous surgical techniques with the latest non-surgical therapies to give his patients consistent rejuvenation results. Dr. Chernoff is an internationally recognized surgeon, researcher, lecturer, and thought leader.
Dr. Chernoff’s Patient After Feminization Surgery
N E W PAT I E N T O F F E R a n d A s s o c i a t $1000 es Off Surgery
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Restrictions apply. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 12/31/2017