22 20 644 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/c6bd8d30f946cbb8a5f183612933fede.jpg cb24f0560cf9c0f801223ac6bf225a00 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/4e4d0a3d9ab12726c0e453fa0d8f69f9.pdf 7a27ada0399707a79debeec279e8cbed PDF Text Text i �2 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �Oklahoma’s Discriminatory Laws Prohibit Same Gender Couples The Pdght To Marry. TULSA, OK___On Valentine’s Day, February 14th three same sex couples and approximately 20 supporters marched peacefully through the Tulsa County Courthouse to the second floor licens!~g counter. Each couple in turn asked for a marriage license application. Court Clerk Sally Howe Smith politely presented the application. Once the form was completed the clerk then asked for identification and after a quick review said: "I notice by your I.D. that you are of the same gender. The State of Oklahoma does not allow same gender marriages, therefore.I must decline your application." Photo: Three same gender couples cut the wedding cake that was adorned with two brides toget,§er and two grooms at a reception in the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center: NEW JERSEY GAY COUPLE8 G NTED UR ON UCENSE. (AP) Hundreds of gay couples were granted the same legal rights, if not the title, as married couples Monday as New Jersey became the third state to offer civil unions. More than a dozen other couples applied for licenses for ceremonies later in the week. The civil unions, which 6ffer the legal benefits but not the title of marriage, were granted automatically to hundreds of gay New Jersdy couples who had previously been joined in civil unions or married in other states or nations. Photo: ~vo women ask for a marriage license application at the 7ffdsa Count. court house. The three couples, referred to as "The Love Warriors", walked quietly away from the counter after each where refused a license. The group then boarded a shuttle bus which took them back to the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center where a wedding reception had been prepared. Two brides and two grooms gdorned the wedding cake. Oklahomans for Equality, lead by their tPresident Laura Belmonte, sponsored the demonstration and was held on Valentine’s day in celebration of the 10th anniversary of"Freedom to Marry Week". The goal of the demonstration was to bring awareness to the 1049 benefits allowed opposite sex couples who are legally married in the State of Oklahoma and a call for marriage equality for Oklahoma same gender couples. "It is an equal rights issue", said Belmonte. Oklahomans for Equality is a non-profit organization committed to securing equality for Oklahoma GLBT citizens as well as all Oklahomans. They are now located in their new permanent home inside the Equality Center 621 E. 4th Street in downtown Tulsa, celebrated it’s grand opening February 14-18. In honor of the organizations founder Dennis R. Neill the building was named the "Dennis R. Neil Equality Center". v~vw.ozarksstar.com the STAR 3 �A national report titled Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth: An epidemic of homelessness. "Epidemic" is a strong word to use, but in this case it’s justified. GLBT Homeless Youth - page 5 Lily Tomlin to appear at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center March 18th. African-American comedian Jackie "Moms" Mabley - dubbed "the funniest woman in the world" Gay Travelers "Tucson Arizona’’ Otit of Town "Budget Getaxvays " This month Uncle Mikey recovers from a love affair of epic proportions. I mean whew, that man was just too much. It was like being at the DQ and trying to take that extra dip GLBT Homeless ............ 5 Lily Tomlin ................ 10 OUT in Arkansas ........... 12 Stage .................... 11 Past Out .................. 14 Leslie Jordan ............. 15 The Wine Rack ............. 16 Ciao Travel ................ 17 Lesbian Notions ............ 22 Star Scene ................ 24 Uncle Mikey............... 26 After Dark ................ 27 Horoscopes ............... 28 Distributors ............... 29 Cartoons .................. 30 Classifieds ................ 31 STAR DISTRIBUTION: The STAR Interview with Lily Tomlin - page 10 Gay Leslie Jordan to Host 10th Annual Red Ribbon Gala on March 10. -page 15 OKLAHOMA CITY * TULSA * LA~Xq-ON * MCALESTER * ENID * LITTLE ROCK * NORTH LITTLE RODK * FAYETTEVILLE * FT SMITH * EUREKA SPRINGS * HOT SPRINGS * BENTONVtLLE * ROGERS * KANSAS CITY * SPRINGFIELD * JOPLIN * BRANSON AREA * WICHITA* PITTSBURG * JUNCTION CITY 4 the STAR ~,vw.ozarksstar.com �LGBT Youth Homelessness: A National Disgrace By Jason Cianciotto piece of federal legislation that directs funding and programming guidelines to homeless youth service providers nationwide, the Congressional Research Service released its own report on youth homelessness in the US. Their report did not include a single mention of LGBT youth. If Congress’s own research arm is unwilling or unable to acknowledge this epidemic, how can we expect our elected officials to address it? I think part of the answer lies in supporting and replicating the successful efforts of service providers and activists at the grassroots level. For example, there’s the street outreach program and drop-in center developed by the Ruth Ellis Center, which predominandy serves LGBT youth of color in Detroit, Mich., and the transitional living program run by Green Chimneys in New York City, which provides safe and supportive housing for LGBT homeless youth for 18 months while preparing them for in&pendent living. Urban Peak in Denver, Colorado has developed specific guidelines for creating a safe space for transgender homeless youth in shelters, given their unique needs and experiences. Photo:Jason Cianciotto The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Policy Institute, in collaboration with the National Coalition for the Homeless, released a national report today titled Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth: An epidemic of homelessness. "Epidemic" is a strong word to use, but in this case it’s justified. Because most homeless youth service providers are not LGBT-specific, our report also highlights the success While approximately, 3 to 5 percent of the total U.S. population identifies as gay or lesbian, our review of the available academic and professional literature found that an estimated 20 to 40 percent of the up to 1.6 million youth who run away or are homeless each year identify as LGBT. In other words, LGBT youth are grossly overrepresented in the homeless youth population. The report goes into great detail about why LGBT youth are becoming homeless, their experiences on the streets, and the pervasive harassment and discrimination they experience at many homeless service providers. Just as important are the model service practices and policy recommendations also included in the report, which if implemented nationwide would help to curb this epidemic and truly make a difference in the lives of our most vulnerable youth. Several weeks ago, I received what is perhaps the greatest example of the hard work ahead of us as we use this report to educate politicians, policymakers and service providers. In anticipation of the 2008 renewal of the Runaway, Homeless and Missing Children Protection Act (RHMCPA), the primary www.ozarksstar.com of Ozone House, in Ann Arbor, Mich., an organization that serves all homeless youth but has specifically striven to create an LGBT-safe space. Waltham House in Massachusetts has even developed a program that has provided LGBT cultural competency training to over 2,000 employees at the state Department of Social Services. While the programs highlighted in our report may be the exception today, they are replicable anywhere in the country. Indeed, one of our critical aims and hopes is that service providers and social service agencies will see this report as a wake-up call to the crisis of homelessness among LGBT youth. Some may already work with this population and learn from one of our contributors about how to enrich an existing program. Others might know they need to reach out to LGBT youth but need additional guidance on how to do so. Continued page-23 the STAR 5 �Oklahoma Activist Named to Board of National Stonewall Democrats Oklahoma Chapter MaiFltains Strong Presence on National Board By James Nimmo OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__ Oklahoma Stonewall Democrats (~x~9.0kstonewall.org) announced today that activist and poht~cal consultant Linda Gray Murphy of Oklahoma City has been named to the Board of Directors for National Stonewall Democrats (NSD) (,wvw:stonewalldemocrats.org). She will begin a two-year term in March as a delegate from Region 6, representing Iowa, Missouri, A~kansas, Kansas, Texas, and Oklahoma. Her election continues the strong presence that Oklahoma Stonewall Democrats (OSD) has had on the national board for the last three years, beginning with the late activist and lobbyist Keith Smith. Ms. Murphy and Mr. Smith, both Yellow Dog Democrats, were close allies in advocating for the betterment of Oklahoma’s citizens through work in many progressive issues such as equality for gay people, women’s health dare, and the environment. Ms. Murphy is well kmown throughout Oklahoma and Texas for her work with political campaigns and progressive causes, with her latest victory being the election of A1 McAffrey to the Oklahoma House of Representatives. She serves as executive director and spokesperson for WorkAng Families Project (wvwv.workingfamiliesproject. corn), a statewide organization to increase the minimum wage and improve the lives of all Oklahomans. Membership growth in Stonewall Democrats, the only ga~ lesbian, bisexual and transgender organization recognized by the National Democratic Party, has prompted recent expansion of Region 6 representation on the NSD board from three to five delegates. Ms. Murphy will join Olga Hernandez of San Antonio as female delegates. Four candidates will vie for the three remaining positions. They include incumbent national board members Jesse Garcia and Buck Massey, both of Texas, and two Oklahoma City men, Steve VanHook and Colin Raley. VanHook has served OSD as interim co-chair since early December. The lowest vote-getter in February’s regional elections is expected to be named an alternate delegate, attending when a regular delegate cannot. Oklahoma Stonewall Democrats, with nearly 200 current members, is constitutionally recognized as an active dub of the Oklahoma Democratic Party (www.okdemocrats.org) with a voting seat on the state party’s governing Central Committee. The Stonewall organization is dedicated to achieving ful! equality for America’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender citizens, and its members work in campaigns and raise money for both openly gay and gay-friendly Democratic candidates at all levels of government. 6 the STAR w~rw.ozarksstar.com �www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 7 �PRELIM TO MiSS GAY OKLAHOMA AMERICA April 4, 2007 10:00 PM @The Copa, OKC OK CONTESTANT INQUIRES CALL MARK OR JAMES (NIKKI STARR) (580) 216-2715 must be 21 yrs old to enter 8 the STAR colt5294@yahoo.com www.ozarksstar.com �pancakes ~nd, just trying to g~t book, music ~. lyrics by Jerry Rabushka (of Somebody ~Ise~s Life) WOOFI wags Oklahoma~t TULSA: March 2~3, 8:00pro Nightingale Theater, 1416 E. 4th St, Reservations: 918-633-8666 OK. CtTY: March 23~24, 8:00 P~ IAO Galle~: 81! N. Broadway Re~ations: 314-280-1035 Dir~ions: 40~232~060 ~e~: $10; ~5.~ s~dent~senio~ www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 9 �Evenin Coming Interview by: Victor Gorin An Evening of Classic Lily Tomlin is a nostalgic and warm presentation of Lily’s "greatest hits," with more than a dozen of her famous characters, including the precocious six-year-old Edith Ann; the irascible telephone operator, Ernestine; the aging beauty adviser, Madame Lupe; Lucille, the rubber addict; prim Judith Beasley from Calumet City, Indiana; and Lily’s most profound character, Trudy, the street lady who starred in The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe. THE INTERVIEW: VICTOR: Well hello Lily, and welcome to Oklahoma. When did you last perform here? LILY: Many years ago, it must have been in the 70s. VICTOR: Your entertainment career has spanned over 4 decades, and a lot of changes have happened in show business. What major changes have you noticed and what has stayed the same? LILY: Well, it’s all in how you approach it, what your own sensibility is, whatever you think is funny and how you deal with it, matter of nuance and style. Certainly a lot of barriers have been knocked dmvn. I can remember when the word "ass" said on network TV was unheard of. VICTOR: Well it was a different world when you began viewing corned}; when you favorites included Lucille Ball & Jean Carroll, the first female standup comic on the Ed Sullivan Shiny. When you started college to study medicine, was that just to be practical when you really wanted to be in entertainment? LILY: (laughs) I was just a blue collar kid who grew up in inner city Detroit. I mean you were supposed to be serious about getting a job, a career. Being a doctor seemed like a very noble thing to aspire to, and there was quite a reverence for doctors in those days. In my neighborhood though, 10 the STAR we were grateful if boys didn’t wind up in the slammer or girls didn’t get pregnant. VICTOR: Well, you managed to avoid both. Among your many personas, my true favorite was the telephone operator Ernestine, who won you a Grammy Award for a comedy album. She became part of our culture, and as a former long distance operator myself, you can see why she’s dear to me. LILY: While I had never been an actual telephone operator, I did march in a picket line with the operators in 1971 during a strike in San Francisco. The Communications \gorkers of,4anerica awarded me a "Cracked Bell Award" for standing with them. I owe everything to Ernestine, and she knows it! She’s like a real person to me, and like people such as Bette Davis, she’s one everybody tries to imitate. VICTOR: Back in Ernestine’s day, did you ever think there would be shows like "Will and Grace"? LILY: No probably not. It’s kind of evolutionary. Hlen having the success she has had is remarkable, and a whole generation has grown up with that support and knowledge. I can relate, I was in the middle. I knew of performers in the 40s and 50s who were suppressed, repressed & oppressed. VICTOR: I loved your role in the movie "9 to 5" which, although a comedy, really depicted the issues of working people. Can you see workers and the gay communit-y coming together for positive change, particularly in the political area? LILY: Any groups working for change are usually coming from an outsider status, so they can align themselves with others who are disenfranchised so that opens doors for everybody. I might also add that I’d like a new president! ........................... Continued lvage 13 www.ozarksstar.com �Coming to Tulsa and Oklahoma City. By Staff Reporter ST LOUIS, MO__Ragged Blade presents "Woof, The Road Show," a two man minimusical with Zach Jett & Jerry Rabushka. Book, lyrics & music by Jerry Rabushka A script that keeps changing, and love that keeps threatening to cross from on stage to back stage, and lots of silly jokes. Woofl is a mini-musical about dogs, pancakes, and just trying to get some. Don’t you just hate it when you’re trying to make out and there’s a dog panting at your feet? Woofl Adam and Jon are touring a show. A gay romance, come to think, that Adam wrote without realizing he’d have to deal ~vith an acting partner who keeps trying to make it happen in real life. If that’s not bad enough.., a group of frustrated writers (not to mention the Wednesday Mah Jongg club) keep xvorkshopping the play and our poor actors never know what’s in the script from one show to the next. Oh, and then there’s... Woody. You know, that "hot" stage hand who took up a career in theater so he could sleep with touring actors. He’s had his way with Jon and Adam... so they like each other to think. Poor Woody, he meets his demise more often than Kenny in South Park. What happens when he goes to an Annie cast party? It’s too scary to mention. Can they ever transfer the on stage love to back stage.., even if there’s a clause in the contract that forbids it? It’s an unusual play with dry humor, a bit of a vaudeville style, and some great fun. JERRY RABUSHKA is a St. Louis based writer, composer, actor, and director and a co-founder of Ragged Blade productions, a company that produces original theatre and also produces touring artists. Rabushka has won awards for several plays including The Checkpoint, Kiss of Death, and Empty Closets; he received the Director’s Award For Outstanding Service (to the GLBT www.ozarksstar.corn theater community) at the 2006 National Gay and Lesbian Theater Festival (Columbus, OH). He’s had about 80 scripts of various lengths published by Brooklyn Publishers, Odessa, TX. His solo piano CD "Piano 362" was nominated for "Outstanding Instrumental Recording" by NYC based Outmusic in 2003. ZACH JETT is a St. Louis area actor & singer who has performed in a number of musicals and is currently in his third show with Ragged Blade. "Jett’s experience shows through his command of the stage, his vocal ability, and how well he looks in a dog collar," says critic Tamitra Williford, KDHX Radio, St. Louis. RAGGED BLADE has been to Tulsa and OKC with Rabushka’s one-man show "Somebody Else’s Life." The Nightingale Theatre also produced his play Love of Last Resort in 2006. His play "Gay Christian, Gay Muslim, Gay Jew," commissioned by award winning performer, recording artist & Comedy Central personality Jade Esteban Estrada, premiered at the IAO Gallery February 16 & 17, 2007. Woofl The Road Show will be in Tulsa March 2-3, 8 PM Nightingale Theater 1416 E. 4th St. (at Peoria) TULSA, OK, 74120 Info/Reservations for TULSA: 918-6338666 March 23-24, 8 PM, IAO Gallery 811 N. Broadway, OKLAHOMA CITY, OK, 73102 Info/Reservations for OKC: 314-280-1035. Directions 405-232-6060 Admission for both: $10; $5 students/seniors. For more information please visit www. raggedblade.com the STAR 11 �/ a 41; GAYLIEN \VEEY ND" SPRING DIVERSITY \VEEKEND April 13-15, 2007 EUR£KA SPRINGS, AR~Spring Diversity is falling on the same weekend as the annual UFO Conference in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Many visitors asked for Diversity Weekend to be delayed one week, so they could be home with their families for Easter. On Saturday night, everyone is encouraged to dress in Gaylien themed costumes and artists ~vill be available to create one of a kind Face Art just for you. Eureka will be filled with festive Gayliens and you may just win a prize! Deborah Rose with Diversity Pride Events Productions, proudly announces the return of the popular "GAYCO gang", a hysterical comedy troupe born from members of Chicago’s famous "SECOND CITY". Last Spring’s production was a big hit. ~lere will be 2 performances, a 2pm Matinee and 7:30pm evening show. (Ticket info available online) And YOU could be on stage with GAYCO! By taking a special workshop on Friday 14pm with GAYCO coaches, class members will have the option to perform Saturday in an improv/sketch on stage with GAYCO! Experienced or non-experienced, the class will be loads of fun and your friends will be amazed to see you on stage at the showi Must RSVP and pre-pay online. 12 the STAR There will be DPE’s "DIVERSITY BIKERS" contests and Poker Run. Our golden oldies dance, newly named "RETRO DANCE & CABARET" at Caribe’s Restaurante y Cantina, featuring the fabulous Mary King from Oklahoma, DJing and singing, plus invited guest singers. It’s not just a dance, it’s a social! (Emaii us your requests for your favorite dance hits now, so Mary will have time to get them) Don’t forget to drop in to the "PRINCESS WELCOME MIXER" at Caribe’s always on Friday night 7 to 9pro to mix and mingle with Gayco cast members, locals and visitors. Be sure to pick up a copy of the DIVERSITY GUIDE and get the scoop on Eureka and weekend happenings. Of course there will be many more events sponsored by others, great shopping, dining and that great sense of freedom and friendliness that blows through Eureka! More details will be posted as soon as confirmed. Be sure to keep checking Diversitypride. corn for updates. CONTACT DIVERSITY PRIDE EVENTS Deborah Rose 479-253-2555 Email: deborah@diversitypride.corn Web: http://xvwxv.diversitypride.com Community for People living D8 A 501 c (3) Non Profit Organization Our House, Too offers a variety of activities for people who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves. We invite anyone who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail harrismmjr@yahoo.com, www.ozarksstar.com �LILY TOMLIN INTERVIEW: By Strengthening Your Business VICTOR: I’m with you there. But focusing on you, since you’ve been involved with almost every form of media there is, what are your goals now and where is your career going? LILY: I like to keep my hand in by performing live, and I do and 40 or 50 concerts a year. I have a part in a new HBO series, "Twelve Miles of Bad Roads," a comedy drama series where I play a matriarch of a very rich Dallas real estate family. Mary Kay Place plays my sister, Leslie Jordan is my cousin Kenny, and I deal with 3 out of control loaded ldds. TULSA, OK__Diversity Business Association of Tulsa, a program of Oklahomans for Equality, is off and running! Join us at our monthly meeting, held the first Thursday of each month at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center, 621 E. 4th Street in downtown Tulsa. DBAT provides a forum to the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender business and professional community and its allies for the purpose of networking, professional development, creating increased visibility and strengthening relationships among business and professional community members. VICTOR: Sounds like a load of fun! LILY: We hope it will be, and it will go on the air next year. I also ¯ have a part in an upcoming movie, ’The Walker,’ so I’m always looking for new opportunities. VICTOR: Well ~ve certainly wish you luck, and we welcome the opportunity to see your performance in Tulsa. Tomlin has remained at the top of her game for almost 40 years, winning six Emmys, two Tonys, a Grammy and two Peabody Awards. She was a favorite of the late great director Robert Altman, appearing in several of his movies, including her Academy Awardnominated role in Nashville and with Meryl Streep as a countrywestern sister act in Altman’s final film A Prairie Home Companion. She was equally unforgettable in 9 to 5 with Jane Fonda and Dolly Parton, in Big Business with Bette Midler, and as an eccentric rich woman whose soul invades Steve Martin’s body in All of Me. In 2003, she received the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. It will be a night of cerebral comedy vcoven among Lily’s affectionate reminiscences about her childhood in the Midwest. March 18th at 7 p.m. Tulsa Performing Arts Center Chapman Music Hall. Tickets can be purchased online at www.MyTicketoffice.com or by phone at 918 596 7111. Networking is key to business and a cornerstone of the DBAT mission. The DBAT business network fosters a sharing of information, ideas, and contacts and so strengthens and expands our businesses, careers and our community. Additionally, the Professional Development Programs offered by DBAT at our monthly meeting enables members to access information and resources that are important to the growth, promotion, and visibility of their businesses. DBAT’s 2007 agenda includes a number of events, most exciting of which is the Diversity Business Expo and the distribution of the new Pride Business Directory planned for June. A presence on the web is also in the works as well as community workshops and socials. Get Involved! Get Connected! Join DBAT today and learn, participate and lead in the most dynamic business climate in the LGBT community. For more information on membership, including the many benefits, contact Susan Hartman at slhartman@cox.net or 918-274-1699. TWO F RST’$ FOR TULSA’S; LEATHER BAR By Michael Leach TULSA, OK The Tulsa Eagle recently had its First Fundraiser and performance by a female impersonator all in the same night. On, Saturday, Jan. 20th the current Mr. Tulsa Eagle 2006, Mr. Jay Whiteside had a fundraiser and celebrated his birthday by presenting a Benefit for the HOPE Testing Clinic. Hosted by Miss Kimbefly Foxx and Mr. Jay Whiteside, there was live entertainment and many comedy numbers by Mr. Jay and Clogger Bill. The Benefit included a silent auction, with many items donated by Coral West, Priscillas, Tulsa Rough Riders and the support of T.U.L.S.A. and the Driller Bears. A grand total of $615.00,was raised for the HOPE Testing Clinic, and Mr. Tulsa Eagle presented the money to HOPE Testing Clinic the following Wednesday. Many thanks for all the support and help by all the organizations that made this Fundraiser a success, and also gave Jay a wonderful 54th birthday celebration. wvo,v.ozarksstar.com the STAR 13 �was ]ackAe "Morns" Mabley? African-American comedian Jackie "Moms" Mabley - dubbed "the funniest woman in the world" - was known for her ribald humor about young men, but her personal relationships were often with women. The great-granddaughter of a slave and one of 12 children, Mabley was born Loretta Mary Aiken in March 1894 (some historians say 1897) in Brevard, N.C. When she was 11, her father, a businessman and volunteer firefighter, was killed when his fire truck exploded. Not long thereafter, her mother died after she was hit by a mail truck one Christmas morning. By the time she turned 13, Mabley had been raped twice - first by an older black man and later by a white sheriff- which resulted in two pregnancies; the babies were put up for adoption. In her early teens, at the urgleft home and moved to a m~msters family. Before show, beginning as a sing.er to comedy. While traveling performing for black audiwith fellow entertainer Jack daughter. To allay the embarabout her stage career, she own. "He took a lot off me, his name," she said in a 1974 nickname "Moms" for the younger performers. ing of her grandmother, Mabley Cleveland, where she lived with long, she joined a minstrel and dancer but soon turning the vaudeville "chitlin circuit" ences, she began a relationship Mabley, and the couple had a rassment of one of her brothers adopted Mabley’s name as her so the least I could do was take interview. She later earned the maternal role she took with a solo stand-up comedian, and African-American woman to do vaudeville couple, Butterbeans and Susie, saw Mabley’s show in Texas and invited her to join them. She was soon performing at legendary Harlem venues, including the Cotton Club and the Savoy Ballroom, sharing the bill with jazz greats such as Count Basle and Duke Ellington. Mabley began performing as is widely regarded as the first so. In 1921, a well-known During the Harlem Renaissance, Mabley was part of a circle of black vaudeville performers and jazz and blues musicians known or believed to have been gay, lesbian, or bisexual, including Countee Cullen, Langston Hughes, Mabel Hampton, Bessie Smith, and Ma Rainey. Although she had relationships with women - and sometimes let slip innuendos about affairs with both women and men - Mabley was not publicly open about her sexuality. As the Depression put a halt to the Roaring ’20s, Mabley became one of the most sought-after black performers. In 1931, she co-wrote a Broadway play, _Fast and Furious: A Colored Revue in 37 Scenes_, with author Zora Neale Hurston. Starting in the late 1930s, Mabley began performing at the Apollo "l~eater; over two decades, she became the club’s most frequently featured act, and at the height of her career she was earning $10,000 per week. the black circuit - Mabley broke through the color barrier and gained considerable mainstream success, likely because white audiences found her frumpy character nonthreatening despite her biting wit and edgy themes. By this time an actual toothless old woman, Mabley performed at large venues such as the Chicago Playboy Club and Carnegie Hall, recorded some two dozen comedy albums (becoming Billboard’s highest-ranking female comedian), and made numerous appearances on television variety shows hosted by the likes ofMerv Grit~n, Bill Cosby, and the Smothers Brothers. Mabley continued working until the end of her life, starring in the film _Amazing Grace_ (1974) - in which she plays a fed-up elderly woman who becomes a community organizer and takes on Baltimore’s political establishment - the year before her death in ~/hite Plains, N.Y., on May 23, 1975. Though surprisingly unknown to contemporary audiences, Mabtey had a profound influence and served as a rote model for countless comedians, especially African Americans and women. In the words of author Mel Watkins, Mabley’s work "foreshadowed the shift to direct social commentary" that became a mainstay of comedy by the late 1950s, and "anticipated the assertive sexual humor unveiled by female stand-up comics in the eighties." For further reading: Gomez, Jewelle. 1993. Forty-Three Septembers (Firebrand). Watkins, Mel. 1999. On the Real Side: A History of African-American Comedy from Slavery to Chris Rock (Lawrence Hill Books). Williams, Elsie. 1991. "Morns Mabley and the Afro-~nerican Comic Performance." In \Vomen’s Comic Visions, ed. June Sochen (Wayne State University Press). Well before she became an old woraan herself, Mabley developed her signature character, a ribald granny dressed in a housedress, slippers, and a floppy hat (inspired, she said, by her own grandmother). Delivered in a characteristic raspy voice, her brand of humor tended toward social satire, often addressing the hardships of poverty and racism. While she may have preferred women in her personal life, Mabley became known for her jokes about pursuing young men, coupled with her disdain for old ones and their attempts to wield control over women. "There ain’t nothing an old man can do for me except bring me a message from a young one," she famously quipped In her 60s - unlike most performers on 14 the STAR ~.,.ozarksstar.com �Leslie Jordan to Host l Oth Annua Red Ribbon Gala on March "~xe best part about the Red Ribbon Gala is that is supports the ongoing efforts of Tulsa C.A.R.E.S.," Pat Chernicky, event co-chair said. "For 15 years, Tulsa CARES has been providing support services to the individuals no one has wanted to serve. Without the proceeds from the Red Ribbon Gala our ability to provide these crucial services would cease." A United Way agency, Tulsa C.A.R.E.S. provides a variety of services including professional case management and mental health counseling, food pantry and nutrition services, financial help with rent and utilities, plus information and resources to help family members. "The Red Ribbon Gala is not only a fabulous evening of food, fun and friends, but the money raised from the event provides the organization with the financial resources to serve over 500 individuals a year," Robert Coffey, co-chair and board president said. "This event is one of Tulsa’s most elegant, yet worthwhile affairs. HIV does not affect a special group of people; it doesn’t discriminate, it affects all of us." For ticket information and sponsorship opportunities, contact Bruce Lewis at (918) 834-4194 or brucel@tulsacares.org TULSA, OK__With the date set, the menu selected and the talent chosen, the 10th Annual Red Ribbon Gala is set to be a remarkable evening for all who attend. The Master of Ceremonies is none other than Emmy Award winner Leslie Jordan, who is best known for his roles on Will & Grace, Boston Legal and Reba. Jordan is currently filming the HBO pilot "12 Miles of Bad Road "with Lily Tomlin and Mary Kay Place and staring in the new CW show "Hidden Palms." ~l-he local band, Hero Factor, will provide the musical entertainment for the fun-filled evening and this year’s honorary chair is Suzanne Warren. The Red Ribbon Gala will be held in the recently completed Grand Ballroom at Southern Hills Country Club, 2636 E. 61st Street, on Saturday, March 10 at 6:30 p.m. The event is the largest fundraiser for Tulsa C.A.R.E.S. (Center for AIDS Resources, Education and Support), an organization that provides social services for low-income men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS throughout northeastern Oklahoma. This year’s Red Ribbon Gala will be a delight to the senses as a fabulous red martini bar will accompany the beautiful floral arrangements created by board member Toni Garner. The fun-filled evening will include a live and silent auction offering amazing vacation packages, private dinner parties, stellar antiques, flowers for a year, one-of-a-kind paintings from Patrick Gordon and Matt Moffett and original cuff links created by board member Susan Sadler. www.ozarksstar.com 1.-800o535oNDS (2437) Oklahoma’s H~V/STD HerOine ~Preocupado con V.I.H~ en su comunidad? maestro salud quien pueda trabajar el tiempo eompleto/un examinador dei V.LH. quie~ es bilingtie con espafiol v ingles Ventajas fantastieas! Causas fantasticas! Pot favor llama 918.749.8378 Conoee su eslado...Haee un dii~reneia the STAR 15 �nder We are always looking for a bargain and it’s hard to know sometimes which ,,vines are the best buys. Well we hope to shed some light on this for those of you who want to bring a good wine to a dinner party or to share with friends. We all want quality taste with out breaking the bank. There IS a difference between cheap and inexpensive. None of us are born with an infinite knowledge of wine and we all have to start somewhere. I think of myself as one of the kings when it comes to finding quality/low budget wines. I enjoy visiting the ,,vine shops here in Tulsa and I have found some really cool bottles ofvino. Check these out! ~he reds Terrazas (Argentina) Malbec, Cabernet The wines from this vineyard always seem to be well balanced and fruit fo~vard. A Mano ( Italy ) Primitivo Thought to have been of the Zinfandel lineage and every vintage consistently rates very highly. Black Opal ( Australia ) Cab/Merlot This label has come down in price recently and all the verietals they produce are not only a good bargain but the taste is right in the pocket. for those who like ABC white wines (anything but Chardonnay). Pepperwood Grove Viognier This is one of my favorites. The next step up for this grape by other vineyards is about 2 or 3 times the price and that doesn’t mean that they will taste any better. Pepperwood Grove Riesling This is a new-comer to the P G stable. This label just recently started distributing this varietal. Again, a true value. ’ ¯ Schlink Haus ( Germany ) Riesting: Kabinet A fruit forward wine/not too sweet. Pilar Box White This wine is a mixture of 3 grape varietals Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Verdelho. Give this one a try, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the flavor. Marquis de la Tour/Sparkling wine France A truly great find/good balance of fruit forwardness & bubbles. As I always suggest, go and visit your local wine shop. See your retail specialist and ask questions. If you’re so inclined, share some bottles with friends over dinner! Bon Appetit! Cline Cellars Red Truck This vineyard is better ka~own for bigger budget wines and this one is a good sipping wine to share at social gatherings and the like. Bitch Grenache ( Australia ) This is a newbie in this market from the land down under. The Aussies seem to do quite well with this grape. This one is highly rated. Good sipping wine/not just with food. Pepperwood Grove Old Vine Zinfandel This, like nearly all of the wines under this label, gives you real big bang for the buck because these verticals so closely resemble the flavor and body of more expensive wines without tasting as low in quality as they’re priced. The old vine Zin is quite exceptional and will hold up strongly next to other Zin’s 2 or 3 times the money. Marchesi Di Barolo Barbera D’alba This is a new discovery for me. It comes highly recommended by a well know local retail wine buyer. I visited this wine-growing region in Italy. The wines from this part of the world are quite good. This grape not only pairs well xvith foods but after it’s been open for a while, it seems to take on a rich more flavorful state. ¯he whites Fazi Battaglia Verdicchio This wine from one of Italy’s oldest wine-making families is quite a find. The grape is found only in this part of the world and it’s great the -~TA~ Let us promote your business in a UNIQUE & D~VERSE market. Call STAR ADVERT~SING today. www.ozarksstar.com �-TIRAMISUIngredients: 6 Egg Yolks 6 ounces Sugar 2 Tsp. Vanilla Extract 8 ounces Mascarpone Cheese 1 Cup Manufacturing Cream 2 Cups Strong Expresso Coffee 2 Cup Packages of Lady Fingers 2 Tsp. Cocoa Powder For Dusting In a mixing bowl, add yolks, sugar and vanilla. Beat until foaming. Add mascarpone and beat until creamy and smooth. Whip cream to soft peaks. Carefully fold whipped cream into egg yolk mixture. Cover and refrigerate for 10 to 15 minutes. Place espresso in shallow bowl and quickly dip lady fingers into espresso. Place lady fingers on towel lined baking sheets to absorb excess espresso. Using individual molds or a 3 inch deep baking dish (for self-serve dessert buffets) spread a layer of cream mixture on the bottom of mold, then the espresso dipped lady fingers. Repeat this until you reach top of the mold making sure you smooth cream mixture with a spatula. Refrigerate for 2 hours. Dust with cocoa powder just before serving. Serve with vanilla or chocolate sauce. More on ChefCelestin6 Drago and DRAGO pag, 1.9. ��Her ~ Jus~ surpasses expectations." This j alike since 1991, winning: Owner Cele,~tino Drago, top 5 Italian restaurams in by Drago and executed by the late. Brenr Saville, Drago radiates Understated, casual elegance. tL~ven is a multi menu mi artist behind Deer that Southern California has to offer. Raven. "Ihey are located at 2628 \Vitshire Blvd. in Santa fornia, %eir telephone number for reservations is 310-828q585. "Iheir hours are/£~londav thru Friday 11:30 Ab! to 3 PM for lunc 5:30 PM m 11:00 PM ~or dinner ai~d Sunday, 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM. 2628 Wilshire Blvd. artwork. com www.ozarksstar.com the STAR �One of the most exciting and colo~l ways to experience North-Central New Mexico is by taking a hot-air balloon ride over the Rio Grande. (Photo byAndrew Collins) rugged Pacific Coast. Accommodations tend to be rustic, which fits xvith the region’s verdant setting, and restaurants favor simpler and less expensive fare than what you’ll find in the swankier eastern reaches of Sonoma County, where most of the areas wineries are located. If you and your honey love wine-tasting, hiking, and canoeing together, the Russian River is ideal. Salt Spring Island, British Columbia MARCH 2007 By Andrew Collins People often tell me they haven’t gone on a vacation in the past six months or year - sometimes longer - because they can’t afford to travel. This is especially true of singles, who anticipate higher costs without a partner to share expenses. True enough, there are a number of cities out there with prohibitively high hotel rates. But there are also quite a few lively and enchanting gay-popular destinations that can be enjoyed on a relatively tight budget, especially if you visit during slower times of the year. Here’s a rundown of 10 terrific destinations for budget-minded gay travelers. The first five are ideally suited for couples; the next five are great choices if you’re unattached. Traveling with your mate? Provincetown, Massachusetts Although Provincetown is a great place to meet singles during the busy and pricey summer high season, the rest of the year is perfect for couples seeking romance. And because prices fall off significantly after Labor Day and even more dramatically in winter, it’s a destination that can work for almost any budget. After the summer crowds have subsided, Provincetown is a quiet and low-keyed retreat. Its remote location, seemingly at the end of the earth, imbues this scenic beach town with an air of seclusion. It can be awfully romantic here in the fall, or even winter, when you’re cozied up in a quiet inn. Even the most luxurious guesthouses often drop their off-season rates to well below $100 nightly. Salt Spring Island is a stunning, hilly little gem off the east coast of Vancouver Island, ~vithin an afternoon’s combined ferry/car trip from the cities of Vancouver, Victoria, and Seattle. There has long been a strong lesbian and - and to a somewhat lesser degree - gay male presence on this island of artist studios, great beaches, and picturesque mountain-biking and kayaking. Several B&Bs here are either gay-owned or quite queer-friendly, and it’s very easy to find a room for under $100. North-Central New Mexico North-Central New Mexico makes for the perfect weeklong romantic adventure. You can divide your time among a tiny, alluring village (Tats), a midsize city with some fun places to dance and eat out (Albuquerque), and a hybrid of the two (Santa Fe) - it takes about 60 minutes to drive between Santa Fe and Albuquerque, and 90 minutes between Santa Fe and Taos. Santa Fe is the priciest of the three communities, so you might want to base your overnight operations primarily in Albuquerque and Taos, which each have myriad accommodations under $100 nightly, from gay-friendly B&Bs to funky retro-hip motels. Even in Santa Fe, however, you can find some appealing places to stay that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. There are also scenic campgrounds set around the area and, wherever you awaken, it’ll be to views of the region’s spectacular Sangre de Cristo and Sandia mountains. Although plenty of fancy upscale restaurants have opened in these parts in recent years, it’s still easy to eat cheaply at local - and often excellent - hangouts serving burgers and blue-corn enchiladas. Etrreka Springs, Arkansas Russian River, California Gay residents of San Francisco and the Bay Area have long favored this snug, woodsy riverresort area in western Sonoma County, midway between the fabled Wine Country and the 20 the STAR A curious hilltop village in the heart of Arkansas’ Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs is a favorite getaway of both conservative www.ozarksstar.com �Christians and gay people. How these two seemingly at-odds factions vacation together So peacefully is anybody’s guess, but they do. It helps that most of the queer folk tend to stay in the historic, renovated, and downright bargain-priced Victorian inns closer to the center of town, while religious groups favor the properties on the main roads leading in and out of the village. The downtown has blossomed in recent years with a growing number of antiques shops and galleries, and the restaurant scene is sophisticated while still providing great value. Despite the many gay-owned businesses here, this isn’t a nightlife mecca. Eureka Springs is definitely BYOB - bring your own bedmate. Single and looking? Chicago, Illinois Vibrant and friendly low-attitude bars and clubs and a slew of cheap but delicious dining destinations entice impecunious gay travelers to the nation’s third-largest city, a world-class destination by aW measure. Beaches, lakeshore parks, and funky budget-friendly neighborhoods like \Vicker Park, Bucktown, and Andersonville add to the lure of this easy-on-the-pocket city. Downtown business-oriented hotels can be costly, but you’ll find a handful of small, reasonably priced motels, hotels, and inns to the north, in or near the city’s gaypopular Lakeview neighborhood. Chicago’s glorious skyline is free to admire. To see even more, the Chicago Transit Authority (www. transitchicago.com) visitor passes provide unlimited CTA transportation for one to five days, allowing you to save your dollars for more meaningful expenses. Montreal, Quebec For U.S. travelers, Canada is less of a bargain than it was five years ago, as the Canadian dollar has gained considerable strength against U.S. currency. Still, Montreal can be a steal, with numerous gay-friendly hotels and inns charging as little as $50 or $60 per night. This fun-loving city is a great destination for bar-hoppers - the singles scene is frisky and sexy, and sultry gay saunas dot the landscape, appealing to guys of all ages and tastes. The city also has dozens of affordable cafes and coffeehouses, many of them in the hip Gay Village. Sacramento, California California’s underrated capital is, to be frank, a dark-horse candidate as one of the nation’s top gay singles destinations, but keep an open mind. The city is within a two-hour drive of much pricier places, including San Francisco, Lake Tahoe, and the Napa-Sonoma Wine Country, and yet here you can easily find rooms for under $100 nightly. Sacramento boasts a vibrant (if not particularly conspicuous) gay community that is remarkably friendly and diverse in age - it’s a pretty easy place to meet the locals. The dining scene here is excellent, and accommodations range from the gay-owned and upscale Inn at Parkside and Hartley House Inn to a slew of cheap and comfortable chain motels right in the center of the city, within walking distance of the several fun bars, coffeehouses, and restaurants. Austin, Texas Queer Austin folks like to say that they live in the "un-Texas" Texas, a land of green rolling hills, beautiful lakes and rivers, a progressive populace, and an urbane alternative arts and music scene. As Austin has boomed with dot-comers and entrepreneurs in recent years, its costs have risen, but it’s still a good value, especially when it comes to dining out - Austin has scads of superb restaurants in all price categories. The bar scene is compact and the crowds friendly, and the presence of the University of Texas adds a youthful edge. There’s a great gay swimming and sunning hole, Hippie Hollow, just west of the city - a free and friendly spot to cruise and make new friends. Pordand, Oregon Like Austin, funky Portland has received plenty of attention and an influx of newcomers in recent years, but it’s still a scaled-down, user-friendly city that offers much of the culture, attitude, and excitement of Seattle and San Francisco at a fraction of the price. The midsize metropolis sits on the pretty Willamette River. Foodies recognize it as one of America’s great gourmet bargains, and fans of historic hotels and inns appreciate the reasonable rates offered at several excellent properties within walking distance of the gay bars along Stark Street. The feminist scene here is one of America’s most pronounced, making this a potentially excellent vacation spot if you’re a single lesbian hoping to find a like-minded soul. www.ozarksstar.com the ,STAR 21 �MARCH 2007 Are We There Yet? By the time we actually get to vote for our next president, the majority of,aanericans may feel like little children in the back seat of the c~ir asking Mommy and Daddy, "Are we there yet?" The furious nature in which politicos from both sides of the aisle are jockeying, posturing, and pontificating is sure to bring a whiplash effect to the voters - in the long run, the 2008 presidential election will just be a pain in the neck, and we’ll vote for the candidate who gives us the best political pain killers. But who will those two final candidates be? Do we, as a high-voter turnout community, have a real chance to impact the nominee of the Democratic Party? After all, the overwhelming majority of us vote that way. Well, if you live in the states where the Democratic primaries are held in January and February of 2008, then yes - your votes will count toward the Democrats’ pick. As the political calendar shapes up, it seems that 20 Democratic caucuses and primaries will almost definitely be held by February 28, 2008, ~vith a majority taking place on what us political junkies call "Super Tuesday" - February 5. The new wrinkle in this schedule is that powerhouse states such as California, Florida, and New Jersey are toying with the idea of moving up their primaries to the first Tuesday in Februar); as ~vell. (As of press time, it looked like California’s bill to move its primary date was on the fast track to Arnold’s desk for signature.) If that’s the case, everything ~vill be over but the shouting - whoever comes out the victor on Super Tuesday 2008 will be the Democratic nominee. What I’ve been wondering about is the differences on our issues among all the Democratic candidates. That’s a big enough chunk of votes to swing a primary race. Bajko says the primary candidates in states with large numbers of LGBT voters will have to address issues such as repealing "Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell," gay adoptions, and civil unions vs. marriage. It’s during the primaries that the proverbial wheat ~vill be separated from the chaf~: None of the three leading candidates support same-sex marriage. It’s how they handle the issue and the honesty with which they speak that will sway us. For some reason, Tim Russert, the moderator of NBC’s Meet the Press, has been routinely asking presidential aspirants how they feel about same-sex marriage. When John Edwards appeared, he was honest about his struggle. He didn’t just reel off the standard pablum about civil unions. He spoke honestly about his Southern Baptist roots, but also his desire to be fair to all. I could respect that. Hillary’s position on our unions is "evolving" - as strategic a political answer as they come - but she, as well as the rest of the Democratic gang, oppose a federal amendment to ban same-sex marriage, and support the federal Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) and hate-crimes legislation. Most of them also want to repeal "Don"t Ask, Don’t Tell." Try as I might, I can’t find a thing about Obama’s position on this. But he has made one viewpoint abundantly clear - living free from discrimination is a human right, but being able to marry whomever you want is not. It’s a shame Obama can’t make the connection between our right to love and his parents’. His father was from Kenya, his mother a white woman from Kansas. In a pre-Loving v. Virginia United States (the 1967 Supreme Court case that struck down bans on mixed-race marriage), their marriage was illegal in many states across the land. With 21 months to go before we actually get to vote, we’re going to see and hear a lot more hyperbole and posturing. I only hope that "Are we there yet?" doesn’t turn into "Been there, done that" - leaving many of us too bored to actually get out and vote. EDITOR’S NOTE: In her next installment, Libby Post will look at the Republican presidential hopefuls. The actual number of candidates is so fluid that I won’t even venture a guess. But we do know who the main contenders are - U.S. Senators Hiltary Clinton (N.Y.) and Barack Obama (ILL) and former U.S. Senator John Edwards (N.C.). Following them are two more U.S. senators, Joe Biden (Del.) and Christopher Dodd (Conn.); two governors, Bill Richardson (N.M.) and Tom Vilsack (Iowa); one retired U.S. army general, Wesley Clark; a lone member of the House of Representatives, Dennis Kucinich (Ohio); and one African-American preacher, Al Sharpton. Most of them have campaign websites. All but Clinton’s detail their positions on the major issues, but none speak specifically about LGBT concerns. Honestly, that’s not too surprising. The general election is going to won or lost on Iraq, health care, the economy, and quite possibly global warming. However, the primaries in some states may well be won or lost on our issues, based on how big of a voter turn-out we can provide. According to an article by Matthew Bajko in San Francisco’s Bay Area Reporter, California’s electorate is 10 to 11 percent LGBT. 22 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �0p÷ a ms Ye th Preiect addresses the r eeds of Tu sa’s homeless youth, by Tim Gillean event. "While there, a young man walked in stating that he "was looking for his friends, he lingered, even a~er realizing they were not there. Over the next hour as the discussion continued, while we were doing our work, he revealed that he was homeless and someone had told him that Openarms could help. He took a chance that someone would be there and came by. His "ChristiaN’ mother had kicked him out because he is Gay. Our work continues. LGBT Homeless from page-5 Photo by Chaz: Youth groz~ at T~dsa’s Openarms Youth Project. Openarms has been addressing the needs of homeless youth in the Tulsa area for five years. By offering a safe haven for GLBTQyouth, and in fact all youth ages 14-21, Openarms has become the resource in Tulsa for these youth. A transitional living program has been the hope and dream of the Openarms board for many years. During the fours years that Openarms has been in operation, this past summer was the busiest period for youth homelessness. Within a two week period last summer Openarms was assisting six youth who had come to the youth center for help. To have that many homeless youth at one time is very unusual and something that the volunteers at Openarms hope can be prevented by early intervention. Through a net~vork of volunteers and networking with other agencies all of the youth were placed in a private home or public facility where their needs could be addressed without the extra feeling of desperation that homelessness brings. Openarms experience shows that most of the public facilities in Tulsa are not really prepared to address the issues that a homeless teen may face, and even less capable of dealing with a GLBT youth who might turn up at their facilities. Many of the shelters in Tulsa where assistance is available require the person to attend some type of religious ceremony to continue to access service. These services can be particularly terrifying to a youth who was just kicked out of their home because their parents won’t accept their sexuality based on their own religious biases. By providing a safe space where these youth are accepted for who they are, just as they are, Openarms is able to connect with them and find what their most pressing needs are. Openarms then begins to address those needs and help the youth develop in to a fully participating citizen. Openarms can provide education assistance, job assistance, food, housing and counseling for these youth. Most important of all it is a place ~vhere they can be with people who are like themselves working towards the same goals. All youth have the desire to succeed if provided with the necessary tools to do so and an understanding adult to help mentor them into their full potential. While Openarms continues to seek funding for a transitional living program, the support of the local community through unrestricted giving is the most effective way to help. Openarms Youth Project Inc. may be contacted at 918-838-7104 or through their website at www.openarmsproject.org. We are always glad to give tours of the facility located at 2015 South Lakewood, please call for an appointment or times of operation. One hour after writing this article for the Star, we went to the youth center to work on some lighting changes and furniture rearrangement for the upcoming Saturday evening wwvv.ozarksstar.corn While there is clearly more that can be .done at the grassroots level, in the end it is not enough to beat this epidemic without additional funding and support at the federal level. The president’s budget was released last month and Congress will begin work on the FY2008 budget and appropriations bills. The Task Force is recommending $140 million in FY2008 for the RHMCPA, a significant increase over its current $103 million allocation but Congress needs to do more. When the law is reauthorized in 2008 it needs to specifically address the needs of LGBT homeless youth and ensure that all homeless youth services organizations receiving federal funds are trained and capable of providing safe and culturally competent services to their LGBT clients. It is important that our allies in Congress insist that this pivotal piece of legislation accurately acknowledges and addresses the reality of youth homelessness in America -- nationwide, LGBT youth are grossly overrepresented in a system ill-equipped to meet their needs, and that simply must change. Jason Cianciotto is the research director of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Policy Institute. The STAR 23 ��www.ozarksstar.com the STAR, 25 �errands, ect. I do not want to be one of those jealous types, questioning every move. I also do not want to be living with someone else who is living with everybody. Know what I mean? \~q~at would you do? Suspecting in Ohio Salutations and welcome once more to sluts "R" us, err something like that. This month Uncle Mikey recovers from a love affair of epic proportions. I mean whe~a; that man was just too much. It was like being at the DQ and trying to take that extra dip, knowing your body, just won’t handle it. I mean; it just was not right. While appealing, some mountains just are not meant to be climbed. Sadly, I had to cut that stallion loose, sending him back into the ~vild. I hope he does not do any damage; talk about putting your eye out. I bet the censors are just on the edge of their seats. I guess, I do sound a little like a prom date gone bad. That man of substantial lovin’ made more of an impression than I realized. Kittens, I tried, really I did. You just can’t get a twelve in a size ten; I don’t care hmv you work it. Dear Uncle Mikey, At the college I attend, I have met, well kind of met, this man. He is in some of my classes and all I can say is he is fine. He makes me perk up every time I see him. I have seen him with several females, assuming that he is straight. To tell you the truth that just makes the attraction stronger. I want him only for a short time. These are my, college years, I’m supposed to experiment. So, should I just get him drunk so he can enjoy my talents? I really xvant this guy, so bad I have been ignoring the guys who would gladly enjoy my company. What should I do? Frat-boy-lecious A.K.A. butter, you know what you want, and I would even say, you have already greased the kegger nozzles, awaiting your fiat boy knight. Uncle cautions however, as though some straight wayward boys may let you play, some may not. Oh’ who are we kidding, order him a pizza and seal the deal. A straight college boy is like a walking drive through; you can have it your way, if there is a good supply of beer and pizza. That’s Amour’ Smooches-Michael Dearest Suspecting, Kitten, I te!l this repeatedly. If they are not getting it at home, they are getting it some~vhere. Via, liaison, hand-to-hand combat, somewhere, a man is a man after all. Secondly, if you feel something is amiss than more likely than not, there is. I would sit your man down and confront him with you feelings, prepared to hear whatever it is awaiting for you. Communication can be taken for granted after being with someone for a while, though never does the importance change in any relationship. He may be wondering why you two are not doing the bunny mambo across the front lawn anymore. Take it a step at a time, as anything and anyone xvorth having is worth working for. Smooches-Mikey Dear Mikey, Where did your site go? I really enjoyed it and miss going there every week. A fan of Mikey’s Kitten, You have touched me; moreovm; I am willing to touch back. Kitten, The world is not ready for an entire corner of Mikey, lets break them in slowly shall we? Smooches- Mikey Dear Uncle Mikey, My friends all give me a hard time telling me that I am stuck in the eighties. While; this is a joke to some, it is a way of life for me. I belong to that time, style, and music. It was a time that meant something more than found in the hollow music and style of today. Bring back the eighties! Mrs.. Garret’s boy Dearest Kitten, Gimme-a-break! A virgin you are not, while time has turned and the beat goes on. You must accept the, facts of life, if you really want to enjoy the good-times. This is a serious condition even if spoken through careless whispers. Hanging on to the past can only prevent you from seeing the new and exciting times of today. You may be missing opportunity if you are looking behind you. If you want to hear anyone say, I want your sex, than you must nip it in the bud so to speak. Like a prayer, I send you good thoughts. Let go and let Cher! ...Smooches-Mikey Get with it, don’t you wish your Gurl was Hot like me? Yes, Kittens, Uncle Mikey is timeless, whilst my flame shall lead yet another generations of young queers everywhere. Well Kittens, I guess that is all the time for this month. Until next, time. Smooches-Uncle Mikey Uncle Mikey, I think my boyfriend of ten years has been seeing someone on the side. I have no real proof per say, just a nagging feeling in my gut. Sex has become strained, and I figured it was just because we had become so routine in our ways. I now see him acting like he is getting ready for a hook up though he tells me, working late, going on 26 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �FRIDAY March 16 CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Show ~vlRachael Erikks THE COPA: Open Talent w/Shemoane Somemore 10:30pro THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro CLUB iVlAJESTIC: Majestic Kings Shmv 10pro. CLUB ROX: Mison Scott Shm~:30pm ~O G~LERY- OKC ~OO~ ~e Roa&how rch 10 THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro GUSHERS: Late Night Breakfast Buffet lam-3:30am THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pm GUSHERS: Late Night Breakfast Buffer I am-3:30am THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro GUSHERS: Late Night Breakfast Buffet lam-3:30am HIDEA~,VAY: Male Dancers, 9pro IAO GALLERY- OKC WhOOfl ~’he Roadshow 8pm NIGHTINGGALE THEATER-Tulsa WhOOfl "i’he Roadshow 8pro S SAT THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pm GUSHERS: Late Night Breakfast Buffet 1 am-3:30am NIGHTINGGALE HEATER-Tulsa \VhOOfl "Ihe Roadshow 8pro BAMBOO LOUNGE: Free Brunch 2pm, Dancers 4prn CLUB !vtAJESTIC: Catia Lee Love Show 10pro THE COPA: Rachael Erikks Show 10:30pro SUNDAY Mzrch IR BAMBOO LOUNGE: Free Brunch 2pm, Dancers 4pro Kris Kohl Show8 m. ~UB MAJESTIC: Carla Lee Love Show 10pro THE COPA: Rachael Erikks Show 10:30pm TULSA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER: Lily Tomlin 7pm. BAMBOO LOLFNGEi Free Brunch 2pro, Dancers 4pro MONDAY March 19 BAMBOO LOUNGE: RED PARTY! Karaoke 9pro BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pm THE COPA: Variety Show 10:30pm FINISHLINE: DartTournament 10pro TUESDAY March 6 THE COPA: Strip-OffContesr 12am biarch 20 ?WEDNESDAY March ~ THE COPA: Strip-OffComest Midnight. WEDNES 21 THE COPA: Variety Show 10:30pro THURSDAY HNISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pro CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Show wt RachaeI Erikks 9 THE COPA: Open Talent w/Shemoane Somemore 10:30pro FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pro THE COPA: Variety Show 10:30pro CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Show w/Rachael Erikks THE COPA: Open Talent w/Shemoane Somemore 10:30pro LEDO: Kari-Okie host, Pancho 9pro FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pro THE COPA: Variety Shiny 10:30pro BAMBOO LOUNGE: Kaaoke 9pro WEDNESDAY March 7 THURS BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pro HNISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pro BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pro. FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pm 7~ THE COPA: Strip-Off Contest Midnight. THE COPA: Strip-OffContest Midnight. MO M TUES BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pro. ~DNESDAY March 14 March25 BAMBOO LOUNGE: Free Brunch 2pro, Dancers 4pm CLUB b,£&JESTIC: Cada Lee Love Show 10pro THE COPA: Rachael Erikks Show 10:30pro BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pm. BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pro CLUB MAJESTIC: Carla Lee Love Show 10pro THE COPA: Rachael Eril&s Show 10:30pro www.ozarksstar.com HID~WAY: Male Dancers, 9pro SATURDAY March 17 FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament I 0pm LEDO: Kari-Okie host, Pancho 9pro ~HE CbPAi M~ D~n~er~ 9pro THURSDAY March 22 THURSDAY March 15 CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Shoxv w/ Rachael Erikks CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Show w/Rachael Erikks THE COPA: Open Talent w!Shemoane Somemore 10:30pro FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pro THE COPA: Open Talent w/Shemoane Somemore 10:30pm LEDO: Kari-Okie host, Pancho 9pro TULSA P.A.C. CHAPMAN HALL: Les Folies Russes 7pm LEDO: Kari-Okie host, Pancho 9pro FI~JDAY March 30 THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pm LEDO: Kari-Okie host, Pancho 9pm SAT ~ch 31[ THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pm GUSHERS: Late Night Breakfast Buffet l am-3:30am After Dark is a free service ro our advertisers and is the responsibility of the advertiser m inform the STAR in writing of updates, additions or discontinued events. The STAR is not responsible for accurac): the STAR 27 �"Clean house, Virgo!" The Saturn-Neptune opposition, which inflates everyone’s sense of doom and despair, is getting a break as Jupiter offers liberating insights. ARIES (March 20 -April 19): Stuck in the same old routine with your friends? You could suggest something new and different. Better yet, just go ahead and try out whatever interests you. Let them tag along or not. TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): Domestic duties and uncertainty at work have you in a crazy, confusing tug-of-war. Even if you can’t really escape your problems, a diversion - preferably a crazy, wildly erotic adventure - will help clear the mind and give you a creative perspective. GEMINI (May 21 - June 20): Listen to arguments; only say enough to draw out new opinions. Trying to win debates will only backfire; getting n.ew information and perspectives will prove immensely enriching, not just intellectually, but also to your relationship. CANCER (June 2t - July 22): It’s not unusual for erotic ideals to be at odds with practical concerns, but you’re feeling that tension acutely now. Attending to your own health or seeking opportunities at work may seem a diversion from that, but at least you’ll find some resolution to the conflict there. SAG~TTARIUS (November 22 - December 20): You really can’t stay out of arguments now, so just don’t take them too seriously. You will flub some basic details and facts and undermine your own assertions. Provoking discussion and learning from your mistakes are good, too. CAPRICORN (December 21 -January 19): Sex and money are typical sources of worry. Problems, however real, are much smaller than they seem. Stop fretting, pull back, relax, and meditate - or take a hike. Getting perspective is half the battle - and, sensibly, it should be the first half! AQUARIUS (January 20 - ~ebruary 18): If you meet your "perfect love" now, it could be a disastrous mistake. Run as fast and far as you can. Even indulging in mere lust is an invitation to horrible diseases. Existing relationships need work, too, but at least there is hope with some help from your friends. PISCES (February 19 - March 19): Work, work, work! Take time out only to meditate, charge your batteries, and eat and exercise, of course. Trust your instincts, take cues from your dreams, and apply your deepest resources to the tasks at hand. Success is within reach, but only if you make a serious effort. LEO (July 23 - August 22): Uncertainty about your partnership can make you cranky and controlling, which only makes things worse. Look for new ways to play together. A trip abroad would be ideal, but on such short notice a foreign film, festival, or art show is probably more feasible. VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Home is rarely a safe haven from illness and accidents. But cleaning house, purging clutter, and organizing what’s left will make it safer. Getting family to help, or turning up old family treasures, will offer revelations. LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): Discuss political or social strategies with close friends, or better yet, a sibling. On your own, you’re too likely to make awkward gaffes. Lady Luck seems to be against you now, but you’ll score big in the larger game for being a good sport. SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): Hidden treasure in your home? Or some enriching family lore from your mother? Something should turn up that may seem to provoke a professional challenge but will actually help you clear that hurdle. 28 the STAR SPIRIT OF CHRIST JOPLIN, FREE NIV TESTING, NO NEEDLES SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC SPONSORS Testing appointment 417-529-8480. 2902 E. 20th St., POBox 4711 Jop~n, Mo 64803 SATURDAY Service 9:30AM Your Invited to our Community Dinner Every Wed. 6pm just $4.00. No one is turned away. www.ozarksstar.com �Arkansas, Bentonville/Rogers (479) NWA GLBT Ctr .... www.nwaglbtcc.org -888-391-9222 Barnes & Noble Bks - - 261 N. 46th St., Rogers- - - -479-636-2002 Arkansas, Eureka Springs (479) Diversity Pride Events .............. w~vw.diversitypride.com A Byrd’s Eye View ..... 36 N. Main ........... 479-253-0200 Caribe Restaurante .... 309 W VanBuren ....... 479-253-8102 Henri’s ....... 19 1/2 Spring St 479-253-5795 Lumberyard Bar&Grill--- 105 E VanBuren ....... 479-253-0400 MCC Living Spring - 17 Elk Street- Service 6PM- - -479-253-9337 Swiss Holiday Resort- Hwy 62 at Hwy 23 So.- .... 888-582-8464 Spexton ........ 17B Spring Street 479-981-6060 Tiki Torch -479-253-2305 75 S. Main Street Tradewinds Lodge - 141 W. VanBuren 800-242-1615 Arkansas, Fayetteville (479) Common Ground Restaurant--- 412 W. Dixon --- 479-442-35!5 Condom Sense 418 W. Dickson ....... 479-444-6228 Curry’s Video - - - 612 N. College Ave- -479-521-0009 Flames Bar - - - 40 E. Center 479-000-0000 Passages ...... 930 N. College Ave-479-442-5845 Tangerine Club - -21 N. Block Ave 479-587-9512 Arkansas, Fort Smith (479) Kinkeads ....... 1004 1/2 Garrison Ave ........ 479-783-9988 Klub XLR8 ...... 1022 Dodson Ave479-782-9578 Red Rock City - - - 917 N. "A" St.-479-242-2489 Arkansas, Hot Springs (501) Jesters Lounge .... 1010 E. Grand Ave ........ 501-624-5455 Arkansas, Little Rock (501) Back Street .... 1021 Jessie Rd-501-6642744 Diamond State Rodeo Assoc.. - www.dsra.org Discovery..... 1021 Jessie Rd-501-666-6900 Sidetracks--- 415 Main St--North L.R.- ........ 501-244-0444 The Factory ...... 412 Louisiana St. 501-372-3070 Club U.B.U. - ..... 824 W Capitol Ave ......... 501-375-8580 Kansas, Junction City (785) Xcalibur Club ...... 384 Grant Ave. - ......... 785-762-2050 Kansas, Pittsburg (620) PSU-QSA.- - 1701 S. BroadwayRiver of Life Church.- - 1709 N. Walnut- 620-231-0938 -Service 11AM Kansas, Wichita (316) Our Fantasy/South40 ..... 3201 S. Hillside ...... 316-682-5494 Priscilla’s ..... 6143 W Kellogg Dr- ........... 316-942-1244 Club Glacier- ........ 2828 E. 31st South ...... 316-612-9331 Missouri, Ava (417) Catus Canyon Campground - 417-683-9199 Missouri, Joplin (417) MCC Spirit of Christ- - -2902 E 20th, - ...... Sat Service-9:30AM Joplin Gay/Lesbian Cntr- PC Box 4383, zip 64803--417-622-7821 Missouri, Kansas City (816) 40th Street Inn ....www.40thstreetinn.com ....... 816-561-7575 Concourse Park B&B - - 300 Benton Blvd 816-231-1196 Hydes KC Gym & Guest Hs - ~rvv.hydeskc.com - - 816-561-1010 Missie B’s .... 805 W. 39th St ................ 816-561-0625 Missouri, Springfield (417) The Edge ..... 424 Boonvitle Ave417-831-4700 GLO Comm. Ctr- - -518 E. Commerical417-869-3978 JR’s Nightclub .... 504 E. Commerical. 417-831-9001 Martha’s Vineyard- - - 219 W Olive ............ 417-864-4572 Ronisuz Place .... 821 College417-864-0036 Oklahoma, Enid (580) Hastings Books .... 104 Sunset .............. 580-242-6838 Priscilla’s ........ -4810-A West Garriott....... 580-233-5511 Oklahoma, Lav4on (580) Ingrids Bookstore ..... 1124 NW Cache Rd ...... 580-353-1488 Oklahoma, McAlester (918) McPridePOBox 1515, - .... McAlester, OK 74502 Oklahoma, Oklahoma City (405) American Crossroads B&B - POBox 270642 ...... 405-495-1111 Blue Dog Liquor- ..... -4015 N. Penn - 405-606-7000 Boom Room ....... 2807 NW 36th St-405-601-7200 Border’s Books ...... 3209 NW Expressway..... 405-848-2667 CD Warehouse ...... 4001 N. Penn 405-525-7766 Club Rox ....... 3535 NW 39th Expwy.........405-947-2351 Christie’s Toy Box ..... 3126 N. May Ave ....... 405-946-4438 Church of Open Arms ...... 3131 N. Penn ...... 405-525-9555 Copa -2200 NW 39th Exp ....... -405-525-0730 Eastern Ave Video- - -1105 S Eastern Ave ....... -405-6726459 Finishline ....... 2200 NW 39th Expwy........405-525-0730 Gushers Restaurant- .... 2200 NW 39Exp - - -’- - - 405-525-0730 Habana Inn ........ 2200 NW 39th Exp 405-528-2221 Herland Sisters Resources .... 2312 NW 39th St- -405-521-9696 Hollywood Hotel .... 3535 NW 39th Exp ....... -405-947-2351 Hi-Lo Club 1221 NW 50th 405-843-1722 Jungle Reds ....... 2200 NW Expwy 405-524-5733 Ledo -2200 NW Expwy405-525-0730 Naughty But Nice .... 3121 SW 29th St ....... -405-681-5044 Partners ......... 2805 NW 36th St - 405-942-2199 Pec’s-3535 NW 39th Expw ....... -405-947-2351 Red Rock North- - - 2240 NW39th St405-525-5165 Rudy’s Place ...... 3535 NW39th Expw ........ -405-947-2351 Phoenix Rising .... 2120 NW 39th St.......... -405-601-3711 The Park........ 2125 NW 39th St -405-528-4690 The Rockies ...... 3201 N. MayAve 405-917-1663 Topanga Grill & Bar- - - 3535 NW 39th 405-947-2351 Tramps ............ 2201 NW 39th -405-521-9888 Ziggy’s. 4005 N. Penn. -405-521-9999 Oklahoma, Tulsa (918) Bamboo Lounge .... 7204 E. Pine 918-836-8700 Border’s Book Store--- 2740 E. 21st. 918-712-9955 Border’s Book Store - - - 8015 S. Yale 918-494-2665 Club 209 ....... 209 N. Boulder- 918-584-9944 Club Majestic....... 124 N. Boston ....... - - - 918-584-9494 Club Maverick- .... 822 S. Sheridan .918-835-3301 Cosmo Dell & Bar - - 6746 S. Memorial -918-459-0497 Dreamland Bks .... 8807 E. Admiral PI -918-834-1051 Equality Center ..... 621 E. 4th Street ........ -918-743-4297 Hideaway Lounge ..... 11730 E. 11th ....... - - -918-437-0449 HOPE Clinic ....... 3540 E. 31st ............ 918-749-8378 Midtown .......... 319 E. 3rd918-584-3112 Openarms Youth Projt - - - 2015 S. Lakewood ..... 918-838-7104 Our House, Too ....203 N Nogales Ave. -918-585-9552 Priscilla’s -7925 E. 41st- ............ 918-627-4884 Priscilla’s 5634 W. Skelly 9!8-446-6336 Priscilla’s ........ 11344 E. 11th ............. 918-438-4224 Priscilla’s 2333 E. 71st--918-499-1661 Renegades ........ 1649 S. Main ........... 918-585-3405 Rob’s Records- - -2909 S. Sheridan Rd .......... 918-627-1505 Sappho’s ......... 6373-C E 31st St9!8-836-0299 Tulsa CARES .... 3507 E. Admiral PI .......... 918-834-4194 Tulsa Central Library ...... 400 Civic Center- - - - 918-596-7977 Tulsa Eagle ..... 1338 E. 3rd ................ 918-592-1188 TNT’s - - 2114 S. Memorial918-660-0856 Yellow-Brick-Rd ....... 2630 E. 15th 918-293-0304 �YOU OKAY~ bitter girl 1 email: b tten:jirl@qsyndicate,com 30 the STAR www.joanhilty,net www.ozarksstar.com �EMPLOYMENT nPPDF~TM NITY ADVE~;~TI SI NI:3 SALES REPRESENTATIVE FOR OKLAHOMA~ MISSOURI KANSAS OR A R F,J:~.N SAS qualifications to oza~ksstar@sbcglobal.net or mail to: 5103 S. Sheridan, #153 Tulsa, OK 74145 www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 31 �� Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data magazine Text Any textual data included in the document i 2 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com Oklahoma’s Discriminatory Laws Prohibit Same Gender Couples The Pdght To Marry. TULSA, OK___On Valentine’s Day, February 14th three same sex couples and approximately 20 supporters marched peacefully through the Tulsa County Courthouse to the second floor licens!~g counter. Each couple in turn asked for a marriage license application. Court Clerk Sally Howe Smith politely presented the application. Once the form was completed the clerk then asked for identification and after a quick review said: "I notice by your I.D. that you are of the same gender. The State of Oklahoma does not allow same gender marriages, therefore.I must decline your application." Photo: ~vo women askfor a marriage license application at the 7ffdsa Count. court house. Photo: Three same gender couples cut the wedding cake that was adorned with two brides toget,§er and two grooms at a reception in the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center: NEW JERSEY GAY COUPLE8 G NTED UR ON UCENSE. (AP) Hundreds of gay couples were granted the same legal rights, if not the title, as married couples Monday as New Jersey became the third state to offer civil unions. More than a dozen other couples applied for licenses for ceremonies later in the week. The civil unions, which 6ffer the legal benefits but not the title of marriage, were granted automatically to hundreds of gay New Jersdy couples who had previously been joined in civil unions or married in other states or nations. The three couples, referred to as "The Love Warriors", walked quietly away from the counter after each where refused a license. The group then boarded a shuttle bus which took them back to the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center where a wedding reception had been prepared. Two brides and two grooms gdorned the wedding cake. Oklahomans for Equality, lead by their tPresident Laura Belmonte, sponsored the demonstration and was held on Valentine’s day in celebration of the 10th anniversary of"Freedom to Marry Week". The goal of the demonstration was to bring awareness to the 1049 benefits allowed opposite sex couples who are legally married in the State of Oklahoma and a call for marriage equality for Oklahoma same gender couples. "It is an equal rights issue", said Belmonte. Oklahomans for Equality is a non-profit organization committed to securing equality for Oklahoma GLBT citizens as well as all Oklahomans. They are now located in their new permanent home inside the Equality Center 621 E. 4th Street in downtown Tulsa, celebrated it’s grand opening February 14-18. In honor of the organizations founder Dennis R. Neill the building was named the "Dennis R. Neil Equality Center". v~vw.ozarksstar.com the STAR 3 A national report titled Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth: An epidemic of homelessness. "Epidemic" is a strong word to use, but in this case it’s justified. Lily Tomlin to appear at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center March 18th. GLBT Homeless Youth - page 5 African-American comedian Jackie "Moms" Mabley - dubbed "the funniest woman in the world" Gay Travelers "Tucson Arizona’’ Otit of Town "Budget Getaxvays " This month Uncle Mikey recovers from a love affair of epic proportions. I mean whew, that man was just too much. It was like being at the DQand trying to take that extra dip The STAR Interview with Lily Tomlin - page 10 GLBT Homeless............ 5 Lily Tomlin ................ 10 OUT in Arkansas........... 12 Stage.................... 11 Past Out.................. 14 Leslie Jordan ............. 15 The Wine Rack............. 16 Ciao Travel ................ 17 Lesbian Notions............ 22 Star Scene................ 24 Uncle Mikey............... 26 After Dark ................ 27 Horoscopes............... 28 Distributors............... 29 Cartoons..................30 Classifieds ................ 31 STAR DISTRIBUTION: Gay Leslie Jordan to Host 10th Annual Red Ribbon Gala on March 10. -page 15 OKLAHOMA CITY * TULSA * LA~Xq-ON * MCALESTER * ENID * LITTLE ROCK * NORTH LITTLE RODK * FAYETTEVILLE * FT SMITH * EUREKA SPRINGS * HOT SPRINGS * BENTONVtLLE * ROGERS * KANSAS CITY * SPRINGFIELD * JOPLIN * BRANSON AREA * WICHITA* PITTSBURG * JUNCTION CITY 4 the STAR ~,vw.ozarksstar.com LGBT Youth Homelessness: A National Disgrace By Jason Cianciotto piece of federal legislation that directs funding and programming guidelines to homeless youth service providers nationwide, the Congressional Research Service released its own report on youth homelessness in the US. Their report did not include a single mention of LGBT youth. If Congress’s own research arm is unwilling or unable to acknowledge this epidemic, how can we expect our elected officials to address it? I think part of the answer lies in supporting and replicating the successful efforts of service providers and activists at the grassroots level. Photo:Jason Cianciotto The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Policy Institute, in collaboration with the National Coalition for the Homeless, released a national report today titled Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth: An epidemic of homelessness. "Epidemic" is a strong word to use, but in this case it’s justified. While approximately, 3 to 5 percent of the total U.S. population identifies as gay or lesbian, our review of the available academic and professional literature found that an estimated 20 to 40 percent of the up to 1.6 million youth who run away or are homeless each year identify as LGBT. In other words, LGBT youth are grossly overrepresented in the homeless youth population. The report goes into great detail about why LGBT youth are becoming homeless, their experiences on the streets, and the pervasive harassment and discrimination they experience at many homeless service providers. Just as important are the model service practices and policy recommendations also included in the report, which if implemented nationwide would help to curb this epidemic and truly make a difference in the lives of our most vulnerable youth. Several weeks ago, I received what is perhaps the greatest example of the hard work ahead of us as we use this report to educate politicians, policymakers and service providers. In anticipation of the 2008 renewal of the Runaway, Homeless and Missing Children Protection Act (RHMCPA), the primary For example, there’s the street outreach program and drop-in center developed by the Ruth Ellis Center, which predominandy serves LGBT youth of color in Detroit, Mich., and the transitional living program run by Green Chimneys in New York City, which provides safe and supportive housing for LGBT homeless youth for 18 months while preparing them for in&pendent living. Urban Peak in Denver, Colorado has developed specific guidelines for creating a safe space for transgender homeless youth in shelters, given their unique needs and experiences. Because most homeless youth service providers are not LGBT-specific, our report also highlights the success of Ozone House, in Ann Arbor, Mich., an organization that serves all homeless youth but has specifically striven to create an LGBT-safe space. Waltham House in Massachusetts has even developed a program that has provided LGBT cultural competency training to over 2,000 employees at the state Department of Social Services. While the programs highlighted in our report may be the exception today, they are replicable anywhere in the country. Indeed, one of our critical aims and hopes is that service providers and social service agencies will see this report as a wake-up call to the crisis of homelessness among LGBT youth. Some may already work with this population and learn from one of our contributors about how to enrich an existing program. Others might know they need to reach out to LGBT youth but need additional guidance on how to do so. Continued page-23 www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 5 Oklahoma Activist Named to Board of National Stonewall Democrats Oklahoma Chapter MaiFltains Strong Presence on National Board By James Nimmo OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__ Oklahoma Stonewall Democrats (~x~9.0kstonewall.org) announced today that activist and poht~cal consultant Linda Gray Murphy of Oklahoma City has been named to the Board of Directors for National Stonewall Democrats (NSD) (,wvw:stonewalldemocrats.org). She will begin a two-year term in March as a delegate from Region 6, representing Iowa, Missouri, A~kansas, Kansas, Texas, and Oklahoma. Her election continues the strong presence that Oklahoma Stonewall Democrats (OSD) has had on the national board for the last three years, beginning with the late activist and lobbyist Keith Smith. Ms. Murphy and Mr. Smith, both Yellow Dog Democrats, were close allies in advocating for the betterment of Oklahoma’s citizens through work in many progressive issues such as equality for gay people, women’s health dare, and the environment. Ms. Murphy is well kmown throughout Oklahoma and Texas for her work with political campaigns and progressive causes, with her latest victory being the election ofA1 McAffrey to the Oklahoma House of Representatives. She serves as executive director and spokesperson for WorkAng Families Project (wvwv.workingfamiliesproject. corn), a statewide organization to increase the minimum wage and improve the lives of all Oklahomans. Membership growth in Stonewall Democrats, the only ga~ lesbian, bisexual and transgender organization recognized by the National Democratic Party, has prompted recent expansion of Region 6 representation on the NSD board from three to five delegates. Ms. Murphy will join Olga Hernandez of San Antonio as female delegates. Four candidates will vie for the three remaining positions. They include incumbent national board members Jesse Garcia and Buck Massey, both ofTexas, and two Oklahoma City men, Steve VanHook and Colin Raley. VanHook has served OSD as interim co-chair since early December. The lowest vote-getter in February’s regional elections is expected to be named an alternate delegate, attending when a regular delegate cannot. Oklahoma Stonewall Democrats, with nearly 200 current members, is constitutionally recognized as an active dub of the Oklahoma Democratic Party (www.okdemocrats.org) with a voting seat on the state party’s governing Central Committee. The Stonewall organization is dedicated to achieving ful! equality for America’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender citizens, and its members work in campaigns and raise money for both openly gay and gay-friendly Democratic candidates at all levels of government. 6 the STAR w~rw.ozarksstar.com www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 7 PRELIM TO MiSS GAY OKLAHOMA AMERICA April 4, 2007 10:00 PM @The Copa, OKC OK CONTESTANT INQUIRES CALL MARK ORJAMES (NIKKI STARR) (580) 216-2715 must be 21 yrs old to enter colt5294@yahoo.com 8 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com pancakes ~nd, just trying to g~t book, music ~. lyrics by Jerry Rabushka (of Somebody ~Ise~s Life) WOOFI wags Oklahoma~t TULSA: March 2~3, 8:00pro Nightingale Theater, 1416 E. 4th St, Reservations: 918-633-8666 OK. CtTY: March 23~24, 8:00 P~ IAO Galle~: 81! N. Broadway Re~ations: 314-280-1035 Dir~ions: 40~232~060 ~e~: $10; ~5.~ s~dent~senio~ www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 9 10 the STAR Evenin Coming Interview by: Victor Gorin An Evening of Classic Lily Tomlin is a nostalgic and warm presentation of Lily’s "greatest hits," with more than a dozen of her famous characters, including the precocious six-year-old Edith Ann; the irascible telephone operator, Ernestine; the aging beauty adviser, Madame Lupe; Lucille, the rubber addict; prim Judith Beasley from Calumet City, Indiana; and Lily’s most profound character, Trudy, the street lady who starred in The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe. THE INTERVIEW: VICTOR: Well hello Lily, and welcome to Oklahoma. When did you last perform here? LILY: Many years ago, it must have been in the 70s. VICTOR: Your entertainment career has spanned over 4 decades, and a lot of changes have happened in show business. What major changes have you noticed and what has stayed the same? LILY: Well, it’s all in how you approach it, what your own sensibility is, whatever you think is funny and how you deal with it, matter of nuance and style. Certainly a lot of barriers have been knocked dmvn. I can remember when the word "ass" said on network TV was unheard of. VICTOR: Well it was a different world when you began viewing corned}; when you favorites included Lucille Ball & Jean Carroll, the first female standup comic on the Ed Sullivan Shiny. When you started college to study medicine, was that just to be practical when you really wanted to be in entertainment? LILY: (laughs) I was just a blue collar kid who grew up in inner city Detroit. I mean you were supposed to be serious about getting a job, a career. Being a doctor seemed like a very noble thing to aspire to, and there was quite a reverence for doctors in those days. In my neighborhood though, we were grateful if boys didn’t wind up in the slammer or girls didn’t get pregnant. VICTOR: Well, you managed to avoid both. Among your many personas, my true favorite was the telephone operator Ernestine, who won you a Grammy Award for a comedy album. She became part of our culture, and as a former long distance operator myself, you can see why she’s dear to me. LILY: While I had never been an actual telephone operator, I did march in a picket line with the operators in 1971 during a strike in San Francisco. The Communications \gorkers of,4anerica awarded me a "Cracked Bell Award" for standing with them. I owe everything to Ernestine, and she knows it! She’s like a real person to me, and like people such as Bette Davis, she’s one everybody tries to imitate. VICTOR: Back in Ernestine’s day, did you ever think there would be shows like "Will and Grace"? LILY: No probably not. It’s kind of evolutionary. Hlen having the success she has had is remarkable, and a whole generation has grown up with that support and knowledge. I can relate, I was in the middle. I knew of performers in the 40s and 50s who were suppressed, repressed & oppressed. VICTOR: I loved your role in the movie "9 to 5" which, although a comedy, really depicted the issues of working people. Can you see workers and the gay communit-y coming together for positive change, particularly in the political area? LILY: Any groups working for change are usually coming from an outsider status, so they can align themselves with others who are disenfranchised so that opens doors for everybody. I might also add that I’d like a new president! ........................... Continuedlvage 13 www.ozarksstar.com Coming to Tulsa and Oklahoma City. By Staff Reporter ST LOUIS, MO__Ragged Blade presents "Woof, The Road Show," a two man minimusical with Zach Jett & Jerry Rabushka. Book, lyrics & music by Jerry Rabushka A script that keeps changing, and love that keeps threatening to cross from on stage to back stage, and lots of silly jokes. Woofl is a mini-musical about dogs, pancakes, and just trying to get some. Don’t you just hate it when you’re trying to make out and there’s a dog panting at your feet? Woofl Adam and Jon are touring a show. A gay romance, come to think, that Adam wrote without realizing he’d have to deal ~vith an acting partner who keeps trying to make it happen in real life. If that’s not bad enough.., a group of frustrated writers (not to mention the Wednesday Mah Jongg club) keep xvorkshopping the play and our poor actors never know what’s in the script from one show to the next. Oh, and then there’s... Woody. You know, that "hot" stage hand who took up a career in theater so he could sleep with touring actors. He’s had his way with Jon and Adam... so they like each other to think. Poor Woody, he meets his demise more often than Kenny in South Park. What happens when he goes to an Annie cast party? It’s too scary to mention. Can they ever transfer the on stage love to back stage.., even if there’s a clause in the contract that forbids it? It’s an unusual play with dry humor, a bit of a vaudeville style, and some great fun. JERRY RABUSHKA is a St. Louis based writer, composer, actor, and director and a co-founder of Ragged Blade productions, a company that produces original theatre and also produces touring artists. Rabushka has won awards for several plays including The Checkpoint, Kiss of Death, and Empty Closets; he received the Director’s Award For Outstanding Service (to the GLBT theater community) at the 2006 National Gay and Lesbian Theater Festival (Columbus, OH). He’s had about 80 scripts of various lengths published by Brooklyn Publishers, Odessa, TX. His solo piano CD "Piano 362" was nominated for "Outstanding Instrumental Recording" by NYC based Outmusic in 2003. ZACH JETT is a St. Louis area actor & singer who has performed in a number of musicals and is currently in his third show with Ragged Blade. "Jett’s experience shows through his command of the stage, his vocal ability, and how well he looks in a dog collar," says critic Tamitra Williford, KDHX Radio, St. Louis. RAGGED BLADE has been to Tulsa and OKC with Rabushka’s one-man show "Somebody Else’s Life." The Nightingale Theatre also produced his play Love of Last Resort in 2006. His play "Gay Christian, Gay Muslim, Gay Jew," commissioned by award winning performer, recording artist & Comedy Central personality Jade Esteban Estrada, premiered at the IAO Gallery February 16 & 17, 2007. Woofl The Road Show will be in Tulsa March 2-3, 8 PM Nightingale Theater 1416 E. 4th St. (at Peoria) TULSA, OK, 74120 Info/Reservations for TULSA: 918-633- 8666 March 23-24, 8 PM, IAO Gallery 811 N. Broadway, OKLAHOMA CITY, OK, 73102 Info/Reservations for OKC: 314-280-1035. Directions 405-232-6060 Admission for both: $10; $5 students/seniors. For more information please visit www. raggedblade.com www.ozarksstar.corn the STAR 11 / a 41;GAYLIEN \VEEY ND" SPRING DIVERSITY \VEEKEND April 13-15, 2007 EUR£KA SPRINGS, AR~Spring Diversity is falling on the same weekend as the annual UFO Conference in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Many visitors asked for Diversity Weekend to be delayed one week, so they could be home with their families for Easter. On Saturday night, everyone is encouraged to dress in Gaylien themed costumes and artists ~vill be available to create one of a kind Face Art just for you. Eureka will be filled with festive Gayliens and you may just win a prize! Deborah Rose with Diversity Pride Events Productions, proudly announces the return of the popular "GAYCO gang", a hysterical comedy troupe born from members of Chicago’s famous "SECOND CITY". Last Spring’s production was a big hit. ~lere will be 2 performances, a 2pm Matinee and 7:30pm evening show. (Ticket info available online) And YOU could be on stage with GAYCO! By taking a special workshop on Friday 1- 4pm with GAYCO coaches, class members will have the option to perform Saturday in an improv/sketch on stage with GAYCO! Experienced or non-experienced, the class will be loads of fun and your friends will be amazed to see you on stage at the showi Must RSVP and pre-pay online. There will be DPE’s "DIVERSITY BIKERS" contests and Poker Run. Our golden oldies dance, newly named "RETRO DANCE & CABARET" at Caribe’s Restaurante y Cantina, featuring the fabulous Mary King from Oklahoma, DJing and singing, plus invited guest singers. It’s not just a dance, it’s a social! (Emaii us your requests for your favorite dance hits now, so Mary will have time to get them) Don’t forget to drop in to the "PRINCESS WELCOME MIXER" at Caribe’s always on Friday night 7 to 9pro to mix and mingle with Gayco cast members, locals and visitors. Be sure to pick up a copy of the DIVERSITY GUIDE and get the scoop on Eureka and weekend happenings. Of course there will be many more events sponsored by others, great shopping, dining and that great sense of freedom and friendliness that blows through Eureka! More details will be posted as soon as confirmed. Be sure to keep checking Diversitypride. corn for updates. CONTACT DIVERSITY PRIDE EVENTS Deborah Rose 479-253-2555 Email: deborah@diversitypride.corn Web: http://xvwxv.diversitypride.com Community for People living D8 A 501 c (3) Non Profit Organization Our House, Too offers a variety of activities for people who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves. We invite anyone who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail harrismmjr@yahoo.com, 12 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com LILY TOMLIN INTERVIEW: VICTOR: I’m with you there. But focusing on you, since you’ve been involved with almost every form of media there is, what are your goals now and where is your career going? LILY: I like to keep my hand in by performing live, and I do and 40 or 50 concerts a year. I have a part in a new HBO series, "Twelve Miles of Bad Roads," a comedy drama series where I play a matriarch of a very rich Dallas real estate family. Mary Kay Place plays my sister, Leslie Jordan is my cousin Kenny, and I deal with 3 out of control loaded ldds. VICTOR: Sounds like a load of fun! LILY: We hope it will be, and it will go on the air next year. I also ¯ have a part in an upcoming movie, ’The Walker,’ so I’m always looking for new opportunities. VICTOR: Well ~ve certainly wish you luck, and we welcome the opportunity to see your performance in Tulsa. Tomlin has remained at the top of her game for almost 40 years, winning six Emmys, two Tonys, a Grammy and two Peabody Awards. She was a favorite of the late great director Robert Altman, appearing in several of his movies, including her Academy Awardnominated role in Nashville and with Meryl Streep as a countrywestern sister act in Altman’s final film A Prairie Home Companion. She was equally unforgettable in 9 to 5 with Jane Fonda and Dolly Parton, in Big Business with Bette Midler, and as an eccentric rich woman whose soul invades Steve Martin’s body in All of Me. In 2003, she received the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. It will be a night of cerebral comedy vcoven among Lily’s affectionate reminiscences about her childhood in the Midwest. March 18th at 7 p.m. Tulsa Performing Arts Center Chapman Music Hall. Tickets can be purchased online at www.MyTicketoffice. com or by phone at 918 596 7111. By Strengthening Your Business TULSA, OK__Diversity Business Association ofTulsa, a program of Oklahomans for Equality, is off and running! Join us at our monthly meeting, held the first Thursday of each month at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center, 621 E. 4th Street in downtown Tulsa. DBAT provides a forum to the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender business and professional community and its allies for the purpose of networking, professional development, creating increased visibility and strengthening relationships among business and professional community members. Networking is key to business and a cornerstone of the DBAT mission. The DBAT business network fosters a sharing of information, ideas, and contacts and so strengthens and expands our businesses, careers and our community. Additionally, the Professional Development Programs offered by DBAT at our monthly meeting enables members to access information and resources that are important to the growth, promotion, and visibility of their businesses. DBAT’s 2007 agenda includes a number of events, most exciting of which is the Diversity Business Expo and the distribution of the new Pride Business Directory planned for June. A presence on the web is also in the works as well as community workshops and socials. Get Involved! Get Connected! Join DBAT today and learn, participate and lead in the most dynamic business climate in the LGBT community. For more information on membership, including the many benefits, contact Susan Hartman at slhartman@cox.net or 918-274-1699. TWO F RST’$ FOR TULSA’S; LEATHER BAR By Michael Leach TULSA, OK The Tulsa Eagle recently had its First Fundraiser and performance by a female impersonator all in the same night. On, Saturday, Jan. 20th the current Mr. Tulsa Eagle 2006, Mr. Jay Whiteside had a fundraiser and celebrated his birthday by presenting a Benefit for the HOPE Testing Clinic. Hosted by Miss Kimbefly Foxx and Mr. Jay Whiteside, there was live entertainment and many comedy numbers by Mr. Jay and Clogger Bill. The Benefit included a silent auction, with many items donated by Coral West, Priscillas, Tulsa Rough Riders and the support of T.U.L.S.A. and the Driller Bears. A grand total of $615.00,was raised for the HOPE Testing Clinic, and Mr. Tulsa Eagle presented the money to HOPE Testing Clinic the following Wednesday. Many thanks for all the support and help by all the organizations that made this Fundraiser a success, and also gave Jay a wonderful 54th birthday celebration. wvo,v.ozarksstar.com the STAR 13 was ]ackAe "Morns" Mabley? African-American comedian Jackie "Moms" Mabley - dubbed "the funniest woman in the world" - was known for her ribald humor about young men, but her personal relationships were often with women. The great-granddaughter of a slave and one of 12 children, Mabley was born Loretta Mary Aiken in March 1894 (some historians say 1897) in Brevard, N.C. When she was 11, her father, a businessman and volunteer firefighter, was killed when his fire truck exploded. Not long thereafter, her mother died after she was hit by a mail truck one Christmas morning. By the time she turned 13, Mabley had been raped twice - first by an older black man and later by a white sheriff- which resulted in two pregnancies; the babies were put up for adoption. In her early teens, at the urgleft home and moved to a m~msters family. Before show, beginning as a sing.er to comedy. While traveling performing for black audiwith fellow entertainer Jack daughter. To allay the embarabout her stage career, she own. "He took a lot off me, his name," she said in a 1974 nickname "Moms" for the younger performers. Mabley began performing as is widely regarded as the first so. In 1921, a well-known ing of her grandmother, Mabley Cleveland, where she lived with long, she joined a minstrel and dancer but soon turning the vaudeville "chitlin circuit" ences, she began a relationship Mabley, and the couple had a rassment of one of her brothers adopted Mabley’s name as her so the least I could do was take interview. She later earned the maternal role she took with a solo stand-up comedian, and African-American woman to do vaudeville couple, Butterbeans and Susie, saw Mabley’s show in Texas and invited her to join them. She was soon performing at legendary Harlem venues, including the Cotton Club and the Savoy Ballroom, sharing the bill with jazz greats such as Count Basle and Duke Ellington. the black circuit - Mabley broke through the color barrier and gained considerable mainstream success, likely because white audiences found her frumpy character nonthreatening despite her biting wit and edgy themes. By this time an actual toothless old woman, Mabley performed at large venues such as the Chicago Playboy Club and Carnegie Hall, recorded some two dozen comedy albums (becoming Billboard’s highest- ranking female comedian), and made numerous appearances on television variety shows hosted by the likes ofMerv Grit~n, Bill Cosby, and the Smothers Brothers. Mabley continued working until the end of her life, starring in the film _Amazing Grace_ (1974) - in which she plays a fed-up elderly woman who becomes a community organizer and takes on Baltimore’s political establishment - the year before her death in ~/hite Plains, N.Y., on May 23, 1975. Though surprisingly unknown to contemporary audiences, Mabtey had a profound influence and served as a rote model for countless comedians, especially African Americans and women. In the words of author Mel Watkins, Mabley’s work "foreshadowed the shift to direct social commentary" that became a mainstay of comedy by the late 1950s, and "anticipated the assertive sexual humor unveiled by female stand-up comics in the eighties." For further reading: Gomez, Jewelle. 1993. Forty-Three Septembers (Firebrand). During the Harlem Renaissance, Mabley was part of a circle of black vaudeville performers and jazz and blues musicians known or believed to have been gay, lesbian, or bisexual, including Countee Cullen, Langston Hughes, Mabel Hampton, Bessie Smith, and Ma Rainey. Although she had relationships with women - and sometimes let slip innuendos about affairs with both women and men - Mabley was not publicly open about her sexuality. As the Depression put a halt to the Roaring ’20s, Mabley became one of the most sought-after black performers. In 1931, she co-wrote a Broadway play, _Fast and Furious: A Colored Revue in 37 Scenes_, with author Zora Neale Hurston. Starting in the late 1930s, Mabley began performing at the Apollo "l~eater; over two decades, she became the club’s most frequently featured act, and at the height of her career she was earning $10,000 per week. Watkins, Mel. 1999. On the Real Side: A History ofAfrican-American Comedy from Slavery to Chris Rock (Lawrence Hill Books). Williams, Elsie. 1991. "Morns Mabley and the Afro-~nerican Comic Performance." In \Vomen’s Comic Visions, ed. June Sochen (Wayne State University Press). Well before she became an old woraan herself, Mabley developed her signature character, a ribald granny dressed in a housedress, slippers, and a floppy hat (inspired, she said, by her own grandmother). Delivered in a characteristic raspy voice, her brand of humor tended toward social satire, often addressing the hardships of poverty and racism. While she may have preferred women in her personal life, Mabley became known for her jokes about pursuing young men, coupled with her disdain for old ones and their attempts to wield control over women. "There ain’t nothing an old man can do for me except bring me a message from a young one," she famously quipped In her 60s - unlike most performers on 14 the STAR ~.,.ozarksstar.com Leslie Jordan to Host l Oth Annua Red Ribbon Gala on March TULSA, OK__With the date set, the menu selected and the talent chosen, the 10th Annual Red Ribbon Gala is set to be a remarkable evening for all who attend. The Master of Ceremonies is none other than Emmy Award winner Leslie Jordan, who is best known for his roles on Will & Grace, Boston Legal and Reba. Jordan is currently filming the HBO pilot "12 Miles of Bad Road "with Lily Tomlin and Mary Kay Place and staring in the new CW show "Hidden Palms." ~l-he local band, Hero Factor, will provide the musical entertainment for the fun-filled evening and this year’s honorary chair is Suzanne Warren. The Red Ribbon Gala will be held in the recently completed Grand Ballroom at Southern Hills Country Club, 2636 E. 61st Street, on Saturday, March 10 at 6:30 p.m. The event is the largest fundraiser for Tulsa C.A.R.E.S. (Center for AIDS Resources, Education and Support), an organization that provides social services for low-income men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS throughout northeastern Oklahoma. This year’s Red Ribbon Gala will be a delight to the senses as a fabulous red martini bar will accompany the beautiful floral arrangements created by board member Toni Garner. The fun-filled evening will include a live and silent auction offering amazing vacation packages, private dinner parties, stellar antiques, flowers for a year, one-of-a-kind paintings from Patrick Gordon and Matt Moffett and original cuff links created by board member Susan Sadler. www.ozarksstar.com "~xe best part about the Red Ribbon Gala is that is supports the ongoing efforts ofTulsa C.A.R.E.S.," Pat Chernicky, event co-chair said. "For 15 years, Tulsa CARES has been providing support services to the individuals no one has wanted to serve. Without the proceeds from the Red Ribbon Gala our ability to provide these crucial services would cease." A United Way agency, Tulsa C.A.R.E.S. provides a variety of services including professional case management and mental health counseling, food pantry and nutrition services, financial help with rent and utilities, plus information and resources to help family members. "The Red Ribbon Gala is not only a fabulous evening of food, fun and friends, but the money raised from the event provides the organization with the financial resources to serve over 500 individuals a year," Robert Coffey, co-chair and board president said. "This event is one ofTulsa’s most elegant, yet worthwhile affairs. HIV does not affect a special group of people; it doesn’t discriminate, it affects all of us." For ticket information and sponsorship opportunities, contact Bruce Lewis at (918) 834-4194 or brucel@tulsacares.org 1.-800o535oNDS (2437) Oklahoma’s H~V/STD HerOine ~Preocupado con V.I.H~ en su comunidad? maestro salud quien pueda trabajar el tiempo eompleto/un examinador dei V.LH. quie~ es bilingtie con espafiol v ingles Ventajas fantastieas! Causas fantasticas! Pot favor llama 918.749.8378 Conoee su eslado...Haee un dii~reneia the STAR 15 nder We are always looking for a bargain and it’s hard to know sometimes which ,,vines are the best buys. Well we hope to shed some light on this for those of you who want to bring a good wine to a dinner party or to share with friends. We all want quality taste with out breaking the bank. There IS a difference between cheap and inexpensive. None of us are born with an infinite knowledge of wine and we all have to start somewhere. I think of myself as one of the kings when it comes to finding quality/low budget wines. I enjoy visiting the ,,vine shops here in Tulsa and I have found some really cool bottles ofvino. Check these out! for those who like ABC white wines (anything but Chardonnay). Pepperwood Grove Viognier This is one ofmy favorites. The next step up for this grape by other vineyards is about 2 or 3 times the price and that doesn’t mean that they will taste any better. Pepperwood Grove Riesling This is a new-comer to the P G stable. This label just recently started distributing this varietal. Again, a true value. ’ ¯ Schlink Haus ( Germany ) Riesting: Kabinet A fruit forward wine/not too sweet. ~he reds Terrazas (Argentina) Malbec, Cabernet The wines from this vineyard always seem to be well balanced and fruit fo~vard. A Mano ( Italy ) Primitivo Thought to have been of the Zinfandel lineage and every vintage consistently rates very highly. Black Opal ( Australia ) Cab/Merlot This label has come down in price recently and all the verietals they produce are not only a good bargain but the taste is right in the pocket. Pilar Box White This wine is a mixture of 3 grape varietals Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Verdelho. Give this one a try, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the flavor. Marquis de la Tour/Sparkling wine France A truly great find/good balance of fruit forwardness & bubbles. As I always suggest, go and visit your local wine shop. See your retail specialist and ask questions. If you’re so inclined, share some bottles with friends over dinner! Bon Appetit! Cline Cellars Red Truck This vineyard is better ka~own for bigger budget wines and this one is a good sipping wine to share at social gatherings and the like. Bitch Grenache ( Australia ) This is a newbie in this market from the land down under. The Aussies seem to do quite well with this grape. This one is highly rated. Good sipping wine/not just with food. Pepperwood Grove Old Vine Zinfandel This, like nearly all of the wines under this label, gives you real big bang for the buck because these verticals so closely resemble the flavor and body of more expensive wines without tasting as low in quality as they’re priced. The old vine Zin is quite exceptional and will hold up strongly next to other Zin’s 2 or 3 times the money. Marchesi Di Barolo Barbera D’alba This is a new discovery for me. It comes highly recommended by a well know local retail wine buyer. I visited this wine-growing region in Italy. The wines from this part of the world are quite good. This grape not only pairs well xvith foods but after it’s been open for a while, it seems to take on a rich more flavorful state. ¯he whites Fazi Battaglia Verdicchio This wine from one of Italy’s oldest wine-making families is quite a find. The grape is found only in this part of the world and it’s great Let us promote your business in a UNIQUE & D~VERSE market. Call STAR ADVERT~SING today. the -~TA~ www.ozarksstar.com -TIRAMISUIngredients: 6 Egg Yolks 6 ounces Sugar 2 Tsp. Vanilla Extract 8 ounces Mascarpone Cheese 1 Cup Manufacturing Cream 2 Cups Strong Expresso Coffee 2 Cup Packages of Lady Fingers 2 Tsp. Cocoa Powder For Dusting In a mixing bowl, add yolks, sugar and vanilla. Beat until foaming. Add mascarpone and beat until creamy and smooth. Whip cream to soft peaks. Carefully fold whipped cream into egg yolk mixture. Cover and refrigerate for 10 to 15 minutes. Place espresso in shallow bowl and quickly dip lady fingers into espresso. Place lady fingers on towel lined baking sheets to absorb excess espresso. Using individual molds or a 3 inch deep baking dish (for self-serve dessert buffets) spread a layer of cream mixture on the bottom of mold, then the espresso dipped lady fingers. Repeat this until you reach top of the mold making sure you smooth cream mixture with a spatula. Refrigerate for 2 hours. Dust with cocoa powder just before serving. Serve with vanilla or chocolate sauce. More on ChefCelestin6 Drago and DRAGO pag, 1.9. Her ~ Jus~ surpasses expectations." This j alike since 1991, winning: Owner Cele,~tino Drago, top 5 Italian restaurams in by Drago and executed by the late. Brenr Saville, Drago radiates Understated, casual elegance. menu mi tL~ven is a multi that Southern California has to offer. artist behind Deer Raven. "Ihey are located at 2628 \Vitshire Blvd. in Santa fornia, %eir telephone number for reservations is 310-828q585. "Iheir hours are/£~londav thru Friday 11:30 Ab! to 3 PM for lunc 5:30 PM m 11:00 PM ~or dinner ai~d Sunday, 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM. 2628 Wilshire Blvd. com artwork. www.ozarksstar.com the STAR One ofthe most exciting and colo~l ways to experience North-CentralNew Mexico is by taking a hot-air balloon ride over the Rio Grande. (Photo byAndrew Collins) MARCH 2007 By Andrew Collins People often tell me they haven’t gone on a vacation in the past six months or year - sometimes longer - because they can’t afford to travel. This is especially true of singles, who anticipate higher costs without a partner to share expenses. True enough, there are a number of cities out there with prohibitively high hotel rates. But there are also quite a few lively and enchanting gay-popular destinations that can be enjoyed on a relatively tight budget, especially if you visit during slower times of the year. Here’s a rundown of 10 terrific destinations for budget-minded gay travelers. The first five are ideally suited for couples; the next five are great choices if you’re unattached. Traveling with your mate? Provincetown, Massachusetts Although Provincetown is a great place to meet singles during the busy and pricey summer high season, the rest of the year is perfect for couples seeking romance. And because prices fall off significantly after Labor Day and even more dramatically in winter, it’s a destination that can work for almost any budget. After the summer crowds have subsided, Provincetown is a quiet and low-keyed retreat. Its remote location, seemingly at the end of the earth, imbues this scenic beach town with an air of seclusion. It can be awfully romantic here in the fall, or even winter, when you’re cozied up in a quiet inn. Even the most luxurious guesthouses often drop their off-season rates to well below $100 nightly. Russian River, California Gay residents of San Francisco and the Bay Area have long favored this snug, woodsy riverresort area in western Sonoma County, midway between the fabled Wine Country and the rugged Pacific Coast. Accommodations tend to be rustic, which fits xvith the region’s verdant setting, and restaurants favor simpler and less expensive fare than what you’ll find in the swankier eastern reaches of Sonoma County, where most of the areas wineries are located. Ifyou and your honey love wine-tasting, hiking, and canoeing together, the Russian River is ideal. Salt Spring Island, British Columbia Salt Spring Island is a stunning, hilly little gem off the east coast of Vancouver Island, ~vithin an afternoon’s combined ferry/car trip from the cities ofVancouver, Victoria, and Seattle. There has long been a strong lesbian and - and to a somewhat lesser degree - gay male presence on this island of artist studios, great beaches, and picturesque mountain-biking and kayaking. Several B&Bs here are either gay-owned or quite queer-friendly, and it’s very easy to find a room for under $100. North-Central New Mexico North-Central New Mexico makes for the perfect weeklong romantic adventure. You can divide your time among a tiny, alluring village (Tats), a midsize city with some fun places to dance and eat out (Albuquerque), and a hybrid of the two (Santa Fe) - it takes about 60 minutes to drive between Santa Fe and Albuquerque, and 90 minutes between Santa Fe and Taos. Santa Fe is the priciest of the three communities, so you might want to base your overnight operations primarily in Albuquerque and Taos, which each have myriad accommodations under $100 nightly, from gay-friendly B&Bs to funky retro-hip motels. Even in Santa Fe, however, you can find some appealing places to stay that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. There are also scenic campgrounds set around the area and, wherever you awaken, it’ll be to views of the region’s spectacular Sangre de Cristo and Sandia mountains. Although plenty of fancy upscale restaurants have opened in these parts in recent years, it’s still easy to eat cheaply at local - and often excellent - hangouts serving burgers and blue-corn enchiladas. Etrreka Springs, Arkansas A curious hilltop village in the heart of Arkansas’ Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs is a favorite getaway of both conservative 20 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com Christians and gay people. How these two seemingly at-odds factions vacation together So peacefully is anybody’s guess, but they do. It helps that most of the queer folk tend to stay in the historic, renovated, and downright bargain-priced Victorian inns closer to the center of town, while religious groups favor the properties on the main roads leading in and out of the village. The downtown has blossomed in recent years with a growing number of antiques shops and galleries, and the restaurant scene is sophisticated while still providing great value. Despite the many gay-owned businesses here, this isn’t a nightlife mecca. Eureka Springs is definitely BYOB - bring your own bedmate. Single and looking? Chicago, Illinois Vibrant and friendly low-attitude bars and clubs and a slew of cheap but delicious dining destinations entice impecunious gay travelers to the nation’s third-largest city, a world-class destination by aW measure. Beaches, lakeshore parks, and funky budget-friendly neighborhoods like \Vicker Park, Bucktown, and Andersonville add to the lure of this easy-on-the-pocket city. Downtown business-oriented hotels can be costly, but you’ll find a handful of small, reasonably priced motels, hotels, and inns to the north, in or near the city’s gaypopular Lakeview neighborhood. Chicago’s glorious skyline is free to admire. To see even more, the Chicago Transit Authority (www. transitchicago.com) visitor passes provide unlimited CTA transportation for one to five days, allowing you to save your dollars for more meaningful expenses. Austin, Texas Queer Austin folks like to say that they live in the "un-Texas" Texas, a land of green rolling hills, beautiful lakes and rivers, a progressive populace, and an urbane alternative arts and music scene. As Austin has boomed with dot-comers and entrepreneurs in recent years, its costs have risen, but it’s still a good value, especially when it comes to dining out - Austin has scads of superb restaurants in all price categories. The bar scene is compact and the crowds friendly, and the presence of the University ofTexas adds a youthful edge. There’s a great gay swimming and sunning hole, Hippie Hollow, just west of the city - a free and friendly spot to cruise and make new friends. Pordand, Oregon Like Austin, funky Portland has received plenty of attention and an influx of newcomers in recent years, but it’s still a scaled-down, user-friendly city that offers much of the culture, attitude, and excitement of Seattle and San Francisco at a fraction of the price. The midsize metropolis sits on the pretty Willamette River. Foodies recognize it as one ofAmerica’s great gourmet bargains, and fans of historic hotels and inns appreciate the reasonable rates offered at several excellent properties within walking distance of the gay bars along Stark Street. The feminist scene here is one ofAmerica’s most pronounced, making this a potentially excellent vacation spot if you’re a single lesbian hoping to find a like-minded soul. Montreal, Quebec For U.S. travelers, Canada is less of a bargain than it was five years ago, as the Canadian dollar has gained considerable strength against U.S. currency. Still, Montreal can be a steal, with numerous gay-friendly hotels and inns charging as little as $50 or $60 per night. This fun-loving city is a great destination for bar-hoppers - the singles scene is frisky and sexy, and sultry gay saunas dot the landscape, appealing to guys of all ages and tastes. The city also has dozens of affordable cafes and coffeehouses, many of them in the hip Gay Village. Sacramento, California California’s underrated capital is, to be frank, a dark-horse candidate as one of the nation’s top gay singles destinations, but keep an open mind. The city is within a two-hour drive of much pricier places, including San Francisco, Lake Tahoe, and the Napa-Sonoma Wine Country, and yet here you can easily find rooms for under $100 nightly. Sacramento boasts a vibrant (if not particularly conspicuous) gay community that is remarkably friendly and diverse in age - it’s a pretty easy place to meet the locals. The dining scene here is excellent, and accommodations range from the gay-owned and upscale Inn at Parkside and Hartley House Inn to a slew of cheap and comfortable chain motels right in the center of the city, within walking distance of the several fun bars, coffeehouses, and restaurants. www.ozarksstar.com the ,STAR 21 MARCH 2007 Are We There Yet? By the time we actually get to vote for our next president, the majority of,aanericans may feel like little children in the back seat of the c~ir asking Mommy and Daddy, "Are we there yet?" The furious nature in which politicos from both sides of the aisle are jockeying, posturing, and pontificating is sure to bring a whiplash effect to the voters - in the long run, the 2008 presidential election will just be a pain in the neck, and we’ll vote for the candidate who gives us the best political pain killers. But who will those two final candidates be? Do we, as a high-voter turnout community, have a real chance to impact the nominee of the Democratic Party? After all, the overwhelming majority of us vote that way. Well, if you live in the states where the Democratic primaries are held in January and February of 2008, then yes - your votes will count toward the Democrats’ pick. As the political calendar shapes up, it seems that 20 Democratic caucuses and primaries will almost definitely be held by February 28, 2008, ~vith a majority taking place on what us political junkies call "Super Tuesday" - February 5. The new wrinkle in this schedule is that powerhouse states such as California, Florida, and New Jersey are toying with the idea of moving up their primaries to the first Tuesday in Februar); as ~vell. (As of press time, it looked like California’s bill to move its primary date was on the fast track to Arnold’s desk for signature.) That’s a big enough chunk of votes to swing a primary race. Bajko says the primary candidates in states with large numbers ofLGBT voters will have to address issues such as repealing "Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell," gay adoptions, and civil unions vs. marriage. It’s during the primaries that the proverbial wheat ~vill be separated from the chaf~: None of the three leading candidates support same-sex marriage. It’s how they handle the issue and the honesty with which they speak that will sway us. For some reason, Tim Russert, the moderator of NBC’s Meet the Press, has been routinely asking presidential aspirants how they feel about same-sex marriage. When John Edwards appeared, he was honest about his struggle. He didn’t just reel off the standard pablum about civil unions. He spoke honestly about his Southern Baptist roots, but also his desire to be fair to all. I could respect that. Hillary’s position on our unions is "evolving" - as strategic a political answer as they come - but she, as well as the rest of the Democratic gang, oppose a federal amendment to ban same-sex marriage, and support the federal Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) and hate-crimes legislation. Most of them also want to repeal "Don"t Ask, Don’t Tell." Try as I might, I can’t find a thing about Obama’s position on this. But he has made one viewpoint abundantly clear - living free from discrimination is a human right, but being able to marry whomever you want is not. It’s a shame Obama can’t make the connection between our right to love and his parents’. His father was from Kenya, his mother a white woman from Kansas. In a pre-Loving v. Virginia United States (the 1967 Supreme Court case that struck down bans on mixed-race marriage), their marriage was illegal in many states across the land. If that’s the case, everything ~vill be over but the shouting - whoever comes out the victor on Super Tuesday 2008 will be the Democratic nominee. What I’ve been wondering about is the differences on our issues among all the Democratic candidates. The actual number of candidates is so fluid that I won’t even venture a guess. But we do know who the main contenders are - U.S. Senators Hiltary Clinton (N.Y.) and Barack Obama (ILL) and former U.S. Senator John Edwards (N.C.). Following them are two more U.S. senators, Joe Biden (Del.) and Christopher Dodd (Conn.); two governors, Bill Richardson (N.M.) and Tom Vilsack (Iowa); one retired U.S. army general, Wesley Clark; a lone member of the House of Representatives, Dennis Kucinich (Ohio); and one African-American preacher, Al Sharpton. With 21 months to go before we actually get to vote, we’re going to see and hear a lot more hyperbole and posturing. I only hope that "Are we there yet?" doesn’t turn into "Been there, done that" - leaving many of us too bored to actually get out and vote. EDITOR’S NOTE: In her next installment, Libby Post will look at the Republican presidential hopefuls. Most of them have campaign websites. All but Clinton’s detail their positions on the major issues, but none speak specifically about LGBT concerns. Honestly, that’s not too surprising. The general election is going to won or lost on Iraq, health care, the economy, and quite possibly global warming. However, the primaries in some states may well be won or lost on our issues, based on how big of a voter turn-out we can provide. According to an article by Matthew Bajko in San Francisco’s Bay Area Reporter, California’s electorate is 10 to 11 percent LGBT. 22 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com 0p÷ a ms Ye th Preiect addresses the r eeds of Tu sa’s homeless youth, by Tim Gillean Photo by Chaz: Youth groz~ at T~dsa’s Openarms Youth Project. event. "While there, a young man walked in stating that he "was looking for his friends, he lingered, even a~er realizing they were not there. Over the next hour as the discussion continued, while we were doing our work, he revealed that he was homeless and someone had told him that Openarms could help. He took a chance that someone would be there and came by. His "ChristiaN’ mother had kicked him out because he is Gay. Our work continues. LGBT Homeless from page-5 Openarms has been addressing the needs of homeless youth in the Tulsa area for five years. By offering a safe haven for GLBTQyouth, and in fact all youth ages 14-21, Openarms has become the resource in Tulsa for these youth. A transitional living program has been the hope and dream of the Openarms board for many years. During the fours years that Openarms has been in operation, this past summer was the busiest period for youth homelessness. Within a two week period last summer Openarms was assisting six youth who had come to the youth center for help. To have that many homeless youth at one time is very unusual and something that the volunteers at Openarms hope can be prevented by early intervention. Through a net~vork of volunteers and networking with other agencies all of the youth were placed in a private home or public facility where their needs could be addressed without the extra feeling of desperation that homelessness brings. Openarms experience shows that most of the public facilities in Tulsa are not really prepared to address the issues that a homeless teen may face, and even less capable of dealing with a GLBT youth who might turn up at their facilities. Many of the shelters in Tulsa where assistance is available require the person to attend some type of religious ceremony to continue to access service. These services can be particularly terrifying to a youth who was just kicked out of their home because their parents won’t accept their sexuality based on their own religious biases. By providing a safe space where these youth are accepted for who they are, just as they are, Openarms is able to connect with them and find what their most pressing needs are. Openarms then begins to address those needs and help the youth develop in to a fully participating citizen. Openarms can provide education assistance, job assistance, food, housing and counseling for these youth. Most important of all it is a place ~vhere they can be with people who are like themselves working towards the same goals. All youth have the desire to succeed if provided with the necessary tools to do so and an understanding adult to help mentor them into their full potential. While Openarms continues to seek funding for a transitional living program, the support of the local community through unrestricted giving is the most effective way to help. Openarms Youth Project Inc. may be contacted at 918-838-7104 or through their website at www.openarmsproject.org. We are always glad to give tours of the facility located at 2015 South Lakewood, please call for an appointment or times of operation. One hour after writing this article for the Star, we went to the youth center to work on some lighting changes and furniture rearrangement for the upcoming Saturday evening While there is clearly more that can be .done at the grassroots level, in the end it is not enough to beat this epidemic without additional funding and support at the federal level. The president’s budget was released last month and Congress will begin work on the FY2008 budget and appropriations bills. The Task Force is recommending $140 million in FY2008 for the RHMCPA, a significant increase over its current $103 million allocation but Congress needs to do more. When the law is reauthorized in 2008 it needs to specifically address the needs of LGBT homeless youth and ensure that all homeless youth services organizations receiving federal funds are trained and capable of providing safe and culturally competent services to their LGBT clients. It is important that our allies in Congress insist that this pivotal piece of legislation accurately acknowledges and addresses the reality of youth homelessness in America -- nationwide, LGBT youth are grossly overrepresented in a system ill-equipped to meet their needs, and that simply must change. Jason Cianciotto is the research director of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Policy Institute. wwvv.ozarksstar.corn The STAR 23 www.ozarksstar.com the STAR, 25 Salutations and welcome once more to sluts "R" us, err something like that. This month Uncle Mikey recovers from a love affair of epic proportions. I mean whe~a; that man was just too much. It was like being at the DQand trying to take that extra dip, knowing your body, just won’t handle it. I mean; it just was not right. While appealing, some mountains just are not meant to be climbed. Sadly, I had to cut that stallion loose, sending him back into the ~vild. I hope he does not do any damage; talk about putting your eye out. I bet the censors are just on the edge of their seats. I guess, I do sound a little like a prom date gone bad. That man of substantial lovin’ made more of an impression than I realized. Kittens, I tried, really I did. You just can’t get a twelve in a size ten; I don’t care hmv you work it. Dear Uncle Mikey, At the college I attend, I have met, well kind of met, this man. He is in some of my classes and all I can say is he is fine. He makes me perk up every time I see him. I have seen him with several females, assuming that he is straight. To tell you the truth that just makes the attraction stronger. I want him only for a short time. These are my, college years, I’m supposed to experiment. So, should I just get him drunk so he can enjoy my talents? I really xvant this guy, so bad I have been ignoring the guys who would gladly enjoy my company. What should I do? Frat-boy-lecious A.K.A. butter, you know what you want, and I would even say, you have already greased the kegger nozzles, awaiting your fiat boy knight. Uncle cautions however, as though some straight wayward boys may let you play, some may not. Oh’ who are we kidding, order him a pizza and seal the deal. A straight college boy is like a walking drive through; you can have it your way, if there is a good supply of beer and pizza. That’s Amour’ Smooches-Michael errands, ect. I do not want to be one of those jealous types, questioning every move. I also do not want to be living with someone else who is living with everybody. Know what I mean? \~q~at would you do? Suspecting in Ohio Dearest Suspecting, Kitten, I te!l this repeatedly. If they are not getting it at home, they are getting it some~vhere. Via, liaison, hand-to-hand combat, somewhere, a man is a man after all. Secondly, if you feel something is amiss than more likely than not, there is. I would sit your man down and confront him with you feelings, prepared to hear whatever it is awaiting for you. Communication can be taken for granted after being with someone for a while, though never does the importance change in any relationship. He may be wondering why you two are not doing the bunny mambo across the front lawn anymore. Take it a step at a time, as anything and anyone xvorth having is worth working for. Smooches-Mikey Dear Mikey, Where did your site go? I really enjoyed it and miss going there every week. A fan of Mikey’s Kitten, You have touched me; moreovm; I am willing to touch back. Kitten, The world is not ready for an entire corner of Mikey, lets break them in slowly shall we? Smooches- Mikey Dear Uncle Mikey, My friends all give me a hard time telling me that I am stuck in the eighties. While; this is a joke to some, it is a way of life for me. I belong to that time, style, and music. It was a time that meant something more than found in the hollow music and style of today. Bring back the eighties! Mrs.. Garret’s boy Dearest Kitten, Gimme-a-break! A virgin you are not, while time has turned and the beat goes on. You must accept the, facts of life, if you really want to enjoy the good-times. This is a serious condition even if spoken through careless whispers. Hanging on to the past can only prevent you from seeing the new and exciting times of today. You may be missing opportunity if you are looking behind you. If you want to hear anyone say, I want your sex, than you must nip it in the bud so to speak. Like a prayer, I send you good thoughts. Let go and let Cher! ...Smooches-Mikey Get with it, don’t you wish your Gurl was Hot like me? Yes, Kittens, Uncle Mikey is timeless, whilst my flame shall lead yet another generations ofyoung queers everywhere. Well Kittens, I guess that is all the time for this month. Until next, time. Smooches-Uncle Mikey Uncle Mikey, I think my boyfriend of ten years has been seeing someone on the side. I have no real proof per say, just a nagging feeling in my gut. Sex has become strained, and I figured it was just because we had become so routine in our ways. I now see him acting like he is getting ready for a hook up though he tells me, working late, going on 26 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Show ~vlRachael Erikks THE COPA: Open Talent w/Shemoane Somemore 10:30pro FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament I 0pm LEDO: Kari-Okie host, Pancho 9pro THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pm NIGHTINGGALE THEATER-Tulsa WhOOfl "i’he Roadshow 8pro THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro CLUB iVlAJESTIC: Majestic Kings Shmv 10pro. rch 10 THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro GUSHERS: Late Night Breakfast Buffet lam-3:30am SAT THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pm GUSHERS: Late Night Breakfast Buffet 1 am-3:30am NIGHTINGGALE HEATER-Tulsa \VhOOfl "Ihe Roadshow 8pro BAMBOO LOUNGE: Free Brunch 2pm, Dancers 4prn CLUB !vtAJESTIC: Catia Lee Love Show 10pro THE COPA: Rachael Erikks Show 10:30pro BAMBOO LOLFNGEi Free Brunch 2pro, Dancers 4pro CLUB MAJESTIC: Carla Lee Love Show 10pro THE COPA: Rachael Eril&s Show 10:30pro MO BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pm TUESDAY March 6 THE COPA: Strip-OffContesr 12am WEDNESDAY March 7 BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pro. THE COPA: Variety Show 10:30pro FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pm THURS CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Show w/Rachael Erikks THE COPA: Open Talent w/Shemoane Somemore 10:30pro LEDO: Kari-Okie host, Pancho 9pro FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pro BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pro THE COPA: Strip-OffContest Midnight. ~DNESDAYMarch 14 BAMBOO LOUNGE: RED PARTY! Karaoke 9pro THE COPA: Variety Show 10:30pm FINISHLINE: DartTournament 10pro THURSDAY March 15 CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Show w/Rachael Erikks THE COPA: Open Talent w!Shemoane Somemore 10:30pro FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pro LEDO: Kari-Okie host, Pancho 9pro FRIDAY March 16 THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro ~HE CbPAiM~ D~n~er~ 9pro CLUB ROX: Mison Scott Shm~:30pm HID~WAY: Male Dancers, 9pro ~O G~LERY- OKC ~OO~ ~e Roa&how SATURDAY March 17 THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro GUSHERS: Late Night Breakfast Buffer I am-3:30am SUNDAY Mzrch IR BAMBOO LOUNGE: Free Brunch 2pm, Dancers 4pro Kris Kohl Show- THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro GUSHERS: Late Night Breakfast Buffet lam-3:30am HIDEA~,VAY: Male Dancers, 9pro IAO GALLERY- OKC WhOOfl ~’he Roadshow 8pm S March25 BAMBOO LOUNGE: Free Brunch 2pro, Dancers 4pm CLUB b,£&JESTIC: Cada Lee Love Show 10pro 8 m. ~UB MAJESTIC: Carla Lee Love THE COPA: Rachael Erikks Show 10:30pro Show 10pro THE COPA: Rachael Erikks Show 10:30pm TULSA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER: Lily Tomlin 7pm. MONDAY March 19 BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pro. biarch 20 THE COPA: Strip-OffComest Midnight. M BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pm. TUES 7~ THE COPA: Strip-Off Contest Midnight. ?WEDNESDAY March~ BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pro THE COPA: Variety Shiny 10:30pro HNISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pro WEDNES 21 BAMBOO LOUNGE: Kaaoke 9pro THE COPA: Variety Show 10:30pro HNISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pro THURSDAY March 22 CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Shoxv w/ Rachael Erikks THE COPA: Open Talent w/Shemoane Somemore 10:30pm FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pm LEDO: Kari-Okie host, Pancho 9pm TULSA P.A.C. CHAPMAN HALL: Les Folies Russes 7pm THURSDAY 9 CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Show wt RachaeI Erikks THE COPA: Open Talent w/Shemoane Somemore 10:30pro FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pro LEDO: Kari-Okie host, Pancho 9pro FI~JDAY March 30 THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro SAT ~ch 31[ THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pm GUSHERS: Late Night Breakfast Buffet l am-3:30am After Dark is a free service ro our advertisers and is the responsibility of the advertiser m inform the STAR in www.ozarksstar.com writing of updates, additions or discontinued events. The STAR is not responsible for accurac): the STAR 27 "Clean house, Virgo!" The Saturn-Neptune opposition, which inflates everyone’s sense of doom and despair, is getting a break as Jupiter offers liberating insights. ARIES (March 20 -April 19): Stuck in the same old routine with your friends? You could suggest something new and different. Better yet, just go ahead and try out whatever interests you. Let them tag along or not. TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): Domestic duties and uncertainty at work have you in a crazy, confusing tug-of-war. Even if you can’t really escape your problems, a diversion - preferably a crazy, wildly erotic adventure - will help clear the mind and give you a creative perspective. GEMINI (May 21 - June 20): Listen to arguments; only say enough to draw out new opinions. Trying to win debates will only backfire; getting n.ew information and perspectives will prove immensely enriching, not just intellectually, but also to your relationship. CANCER (June 2t - July 22): It’s not unusual for erotic ideals to be at odds with practical concerns, but you’re feeling that tension acutely now. Attending to your own health or seeking opportunities at work may seem a diversion from that, but at least you’ll find some resolution to the conflict there. LEO (July 23 - August 22): Uncertainty about your partnership can make you cranky and controlling, which only makes things worse. Look for new ways to play together. A trip abroad would be ideal, but on such short notice a foreign film, festival, or art show is probably more feasible. VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Home is rarely a safe haven from illness and accidents. But cleaning house, purging clutter, and organizing what’s left will make it safer. Getting family to help, or turning up old family treasures, will offer revelations. LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): Discuss political or social strategies with close friends, or better yet, a sibling. On your own, you’re too likely to make awkward gaffes. Lady Luck seems to be against you now, but you’ll score big in the larger game for being a good sport. SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): Hidden treasure in your home? Or some enriching family lore from your mother? Something should turn up that may seem to provoke a professional challenge but will actually help you clear that hurdle. 28 the STAR SAG~TTARIUS (November 22 - December 20): You really can’t stay out of arguments now, so just don’t take them too seriously. You will flub some basic details and facts and undermine your own assertions. Provoking discussion and learning from your mistakes are good, too. CAPRICORN (December 21 -January 19): Sex and money are typical sources of worry. Problems, however real, are much smaller than they seem. Stop fretting, pull back, relax, and meditate - or take a hike. Getting perspective is half the battle - and, sensibly, it should be the first half! AQUARIUS (January 20 - ~ebruary 18): If you meet your "perfect love" now, it could be a disastrous mistake. Run as fast and far as you can. Even indulging in mere lust is an invitation to horrible diseases. Existing relationships need work, too, but at least there is hope with some help from your friends. PISCES (February 19 - March 19): Work, work, work! Take time out only to meditate, charge your batteries, and eat and exercise, of course. Trust your instincts, take cues from your dreams, and apply your deepest resources to the tasks at hand. Success is within reach, but only if you make a serious effort. SPIRIT OF CHRIST JOPLIN, FREE NIV TESTING, NO NEEDLES SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC SPONSORS Testing appointment 417-529-8480. 2902 E. 20th St., POBox 4711 Jop~n, Mo 64803 SATURDAY Service 9:30AM Your Invited to our Community Dinner Every Wed. 6pm just $4.00. No one is turned away. www.ozarksstar.com Arkansas, Bentonville/Rogers (479) NWA GLBT Ctr .... www.nwaglbtcc.org -888-391-9222 Barnes & Noble Bks - - 261 N. 46th St., Rogers- - - -479-636-2002 Arkansas, Eureka Springs (479) Diversity Pride Events .............. w~vw.diversitypride.com A Byrd’s Eye View..... 36 N. Main........... 479-253-0200 Caribe Restaurante.... 309 W VanBuren....... 479-253-8102 Henri’s ....... 19 1/2 Spring St 479-253-5795 Lumberyard Bar&Grill--- 105 E VanBuren....... 479-253-0400 MCC Living Spring - 17 Elk Street- Service 6PM- - -479-253-9337 Swiss Holiday Resort- Hwy 62 at Hwy 23 So.- .... 888-582-8464 Spexton........ 17B Spring Street 479-981-6060 Tiki Torch 75 S. Main Street -479-253-2305 Tradewinds Lodge - 141 W. VanBuren 800-242-1615 Arkansas, Fayetteville (479) Common Ground Restaurant--- 412 W. Dixon --- 479-442-35!5 Condom Sense 418 W. Dickson.......479-444-6228 Curry’s Video - - - 612 N. College Ave- - -479-521-0009 Flames Bar - - - 40 E. Center 479-000-0000 Passages ......930 N. College Ave- -479-442-5845 Tangerine Club - -21 N. Block Ave 479-587-9512 Arkansas, Fort Smith (479) Kinkeads.......1004 1/2 Garrison Ave........ 479-783-9988 Klub XLR8 ......1022 Dodson Ave- 479-782-9578 Red Rock City - - - 917 N. "A" St.- -479-242-2489 Arkansas, Hot Springs (501) Jesters Lounge .... 1010 E. Grand Ave ........501-624-5455 Arkansas, Little Rock (501) Back Street ....1021 Jessie Rd- -501-6642744 Diamond State Rodeo Assoc.. - www.dsra.org Discovery..... 1021 Jessie Rd- -501-666-6900 Sidetracks--- 415 Main St--North L.R.- ........ 501-244-0444 The Factory ...... 412 Louisiana St. 501-372-3070 Club U.B.U. - ..... 824 W Capitol Ave......... 501-375-8580 Kansas, Junction City (785) Xcalibur Club...... 384 Grant Ave. - ......... 785-762-2050 Kansas, Pittsburg (620) PSU-QSA.- - 1701 S. Broadway- 620-231-0938 River of Life Church.- - 1709 N. Walnut- -Service 11AM Kansas, Wichita (316) Our Fantasy/South40..... 3201 S. Hillside......316-682-5494 Priscilla’s..... 6143 W Kellogg Dr- ...........316-942-1244 Club Glacier- ........ 2828 E. 31st South......316-612-9331 Missouri, Ava (417) Catus Canyon Campground - 417-683-9199 Missouri, Joplin (417) MCC Spirit of Christ- - -2902 E 20th, - ......Sat Service-9:30AM Joplin Gay/Lesbian Cntr- PC Box 4383, zip 64803--417-622-7821 Missouri, Kansas City (816) 40th Street Inn....www.40thstreetinn.com.......816-561-7575 Concourse Park B&B - - 300 Benton Blvd 816-231-1196 Hydes KC Gym & Guest Hs - ~rvv.hydeskc.com - - 816-561-1010 Missie B’s....805 W. 39th St................816-561-0625 Missouri, Springfield (417) The Edge..... 424 Boonvitle Ave- 417-831-4700 GLO Comm. Ctr- - -518 E. Commerical- 417-869-3978 JR’s Nightclub.... 504 E. Commerical. 417-831-9001 Martha’s Vineyard- - - 219 W Olive ............417-864-4572 Ronisuz Place....821 College- 417-864-0036 Oklahoma, Enid (580) Hastings Books....104 Sunset .............. 580-242-6838 Priscilla’s........ -4810-A West Garriott....... 580-233-5511 Oklahoma, Lav4on (580) Ingrids Bookstore..... 1124 NW Cache Rd......580-353-1488 Oklahoma, McAlester (918) McPride- POBox 1515, - .... McAlester, OK 74502 Oklahoma, Oklahoma City (405) American Crossroads B&B - POBox 270642...... 405-495-1111 Blue Dog Liquor- ..... -4015 N. Penn - 405-606-7000 Boom Room....... 2807 NW 36th St- -405-601-7200 Border’s Books...... 3209 NW Expressway..... 405-848-2667 CD Warehouse...... 4001 N. Penn 405-525-7766 Club Rox.......3535 NW 39th Expwy.........405-947-2351 Christie’s Toy Box.....3126 N. May Ave ....... 405-946-4438 Church of Open Arms......3131 N. Penn...... 405-525-9555 Copa -2200 NW 39th Exp....... -405-525-0730 Eastern Ave Video- - -1105 S Eastern Ave....... -405-6726459 Finishline ....... 2200 NW 39th Expwy........405-525-0730 Gushers Restaurant- ....2200 NW 39Exp - - -’- - - 405-525-0730 Habana Inn ........2200 NW 39th Exp Herland Sisters Resources.... 2312 NW 39th St- Hollywood Hotel.... 3535 NW 39th Exp ....... Hi-Lo Club 1221 NW 50th Jungle Reds .......2200 NW Expwy Ledo -2200 NW Expwy- Naughty But Nice .... 3121 SW 29th St ....... Partners......... 2805 NW 36th St - - Pec’s- -3535 NW 39th Expw ....... Red Rock North- - - 2240 NW39th St- Rudy’s Place......3535 NW39th Expw........ Phoenix Rising .... 2120 NW 39th St.......... The Park........ 2125 NW 39th St The Rockies...... 3201 N. MayAve - Topanga Grill & Bar- - - 3535 NW 39th Tramps............2201 NW 39th Ziggy’s. 4005 N. Penn. 405-528-2221 -405-521-9696 -405-947-2351 405-843-1722 405-524-5733 405-525-0730 -405-681-5044 405-942-2199 -405-947-2351 405-525-5165 -405-947-2351 -405-601-3711 -405-528-4690 405-917-1663 405-947-2351 -405-521-9888 -405-521-9999 Oklahoma, Tulsa (918) Bamboo Lounge....7204 E. Pine Border’s Book Store--- 2740 E. 21st. Border’s Book Store - - - 8015 S. Yale Club 209 ....... 209 N. Boulder- - Club Majestic....... 124 N. Boston ....... Club Maverick- .... 822 S. Sheridan Cosmo Dell & Bar - - 6746 S. Memorial Dreamland Bks .... 8807 E. Admiral PI Equality Center ..... 621 E. 4th Street........ Hideaway Lounge..... 11730 E. 11th....... 918-836-8700 918-712-9955 918-494-2665 918-584-9944 - - - 918-584-9494 .918-835-3301 -918-459-0497 -918-834-1051 -918-743-4297 - - -918-437-0449 HOPE Clinic....... 3540 E. 31st ............ 918-749-8378 Midtown.......... 319 E. 3rd- 918-584-3112 Openarms Youth Projt - - - 2015 S. Lakewood.....918-838-7104 Our House, Too ....203 N Nogales Ave. -918-585-9552 Priscilla’s -7925 E. 41st- ............918-627-4884 Priscilla’s 5634 W. Skelly - 9!8-446-6336 Priscilla’s ........ 11344 E. 11th .............918-438-4224 Priscilla’s 2333 E. 71st-- -918-499-1661 Renegades........ 1649 S. Main ........... 918-585-3405 Rob’s Records- - -2909 S. Sheridan Rd.......... 918-627-1505 Sappho’s......... 6373-C E 31st St- 9!8-836-0299 Tulsa CARES.... 3507 E. Admiral PI.......... 918-834-4194 Tulsa Central Library ...... 400 Civic Center- - - - 918-596-7977 Tulsa Eagle.....1338 E. 3rd ................918-592-1188 TNT’s - - 2114 S. Memorial- 918-660-0856 Yellow-Brick-Rd....... 2630 E. 15th 918-293-0304 bitter girl 1 YOU OKAY~ email: b tten:jirl@qsyndicate,com 30 the STAR www.joanhilty,net www.ozarksstar.com EMPLOYMENT nPPDF~TM NITY ADVE~;~TI SI NI:3 SALES REPRESENTATIVE FOR OKLAHOMA~ KANSAS MISSOURI OR ARF,J:~.N SAS qualifications to oza~ksstar@sbcglobal.net or mail to: 5103 S. Sheridan, #153 Tulsa, OK 74145 www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 31 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2007] The Star Magazine, March 1, 2007; Volume 4, Issue 3 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource March 01, 2007 Subject The topic of the resource Politics, education, and social conversation over LGBTQ+ topics Description An account of the resource The Star Magazine’s first issue began February of 2005. Before this issue was Ozarks Pride (2004) and The Ozark Star (2004). Follows is The Metro Star (2008). This magazine discusses topics of AIDs, education, politics, local and national civil rights of the LGBT community, and advice for relationships and places to visit. This collection is PDF searchable. Physical copies are also available to be seen at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center with permission. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Star Media, Ltd Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Star Media, Ltd Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource C.D. Ward Greg Steele Jeanne Flanigan Douglas Glenn Michael Dee Paul Wortman Carlotta Carlisle Victor Gorin Greg Gatewood Libby Post Andrew Collins Donald Pile Ronald Blake Ray Williams Michael Hinzman Jack Fertig LizHighleyman Devre Jackson Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Image PDF Online text Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource magazine Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Southwestern Missouri Western Arkansas Southeastern Kansas Eastern Oklahoma The United States of America (50 states) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://history.okeq.org/collections/show/19 Relation A related resource The Star Magazine, February 1, 2007; Volume 4, Issue 2 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/205 The Star Magazine, April 1, 2007; Volume 4, Issue 4 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/202 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context https://history.okeq.org/items/show/209 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/24f35005b283cb1940200b4d35f92861.jpg 79c4723716568adcf1cc4c752788d3f6 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/84b49e0c90fd49a1b1bf148aee94c7d8.pdf b8824d333f01dcb34beb5df063d27217 PDF Text Text The �2 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �:Survey in history, an(i help emonstrats the growing Power in Our Pri(leo Everyone who completes the survey by May 15, 2007 will be entered into a drawing to win one of FOUR free airline tickets from/to any of the participating airline’s destinations in the 48 continental U.S. States, plus Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. Restrictions apply. Please take the survey today, and tell your friends! Tremendous strides toward full equality have been achieved by our communities over the past decade. There’s Power in Our Pride. Power to make a difference: Gay and lesbian survey studies have opened doors (and minds) in leading corporations and organizations, which in turn have recognized the value of their LGBT employees through the establishment of equal hiring policies and domestic partner benefits. This has been a catalyst, leading to sweeping changes in political and social inclusivity. Demographic reports also influence marketing investment. Virtually absent until recently, we now see a growing variety of products and services represented in gay media, celebrating our diversity. Ads keep LGBT publications and websites in business, serving their communities with independent news and information. Beyond simply advertising, though, these companies support us in many ways, including sponsoring community events and funding community-based charities in order to earn our loyalty. Taking an annual pulse on market trends through surveys helps demonstrate the LGBT community’s growing power, and influences positive change. We respect your privacy. All personal survey data is held confidentially by Community Marketing, Inc., an independent marketI research and communications firm based in San Francisco (founded 1992, and proudly 100% gay-owned and -operated) and will not be so d to third parties or used for marketing purposes. Thank you! www.CommunityiVlarketinglnc.com ® 2007 Community Marketing, Inc., 594 Castro St. #834, San Francisco CA 94114 USA www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 3 �~.DV~CACY Activists Launch Statewide LGBT Advocacy Efforts. CAF Host OHahoma Summit 2007 OkJahoma County Commissioner Brent Rinehart from District 2, a practicing public homophobe, was formally arraigned earlier this month. 4© PAST OUT The murder of gay sailor Allen Schindler in October 1992 contributed to a national debate about GLBT people in the military that remains unresolved to this day. Let’s Rodeo Oklahoma - page 6 Mr, C~ntinental 2006 Gay Travelers "Indianapolis, Indiana Out of Town " Denver, Colorado" ~ D~V~N$~ITY Wl~l~l~ND Good, clean, Christian fun...is not the way to describe the "Gayco" comedy show that took the stage of Eureka Springs’ Auditorium during the spring Diversity xXi’eekend. Simba R. Hal! at Club Majestic Tulsa - page 15 GLBT Summit .............. 5 Let’s Rodeo ............... 6 James Nimo .............. 11 OUT in Arkansas ........... 12 Past Out .................. 14 The Wine Rack ............. 16 Ciao Travel ................ 17 Lesbian Notions ............ 22 Star Scene ................ 24 After Dark ................ 27 Horoscopes ............... 28 Distributors ............... 29 Cartoons .................. 30 Classifieds ................ 31 DISTRIBUTION: Fine Dining at Hotel Bel Air - page 17 )KLAHOMA CITY * TULSA * LAWTON * MCALESTER * ENID * LITTLE ROCK * NORTH LITTLE RODK * FAYETTEVILLE * FT SMITH * EUREKA SPRINGS * HOT SPRINGS * BENTONVILLE * ROGERS * KANSAS CITY * SPRINGFIELD * JOPLIN * BRANSON AREA * WICHITA* PITTSBURG * JUNCTION CITY 4 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �¢ ARRON ALLIANCE FOUNDAo T ON (CAF) HO$1" OKLAHOMA LGBT LEADERSHIP 2007 By Jeanne Flanigan Community Partners were OKC Community Foundation, Respect Diversity Foundation, Herland Sister Resources, Winds House, P-FLAG OKC and Norman, North Care Mental Health Center, Cathedral of Hope, Progressive Alliance, DBA Metro, Central Oklahoma Prime Timers, Red Rock Behavioral Health Services, Hard News Online, OKC Pride, Oklahoma Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, Oklahomans for Equality, OSU Sexual Orientation Diversity Association (SODA), OCU Gay and Lesbian Law Student Association, Log Cabin Republicans of Oklahoma, Central Oklahoma Stonewall Democrats, OKC Chrysalis Education Affirmation Network, ACLU of Oklahoma, AIDS Walk OKC, Heartstrong, the Trevor Project, Central Oklahoma Human Rights Alliance, and OU GLBT & Friends. For more information contact the Cimarron Alliance Foundation, website www.cimarronalliance.org, e mail RCO@lawokc.com or telephone (405) 495 9300. Photo:Josh Hammers, Paul 7horn?son male co-chair Oklahoma Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, Mike McLain u~ith Hardnezvs Online. OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__Cimarron Alliance Foundation (CAF) hosted the Oklahoma LGBT Leadership Summit at the beautiful Ron Norick Downtown Library Saturday, April 14 with over 140 attending representing 33 organizations. The conference featured local presenters in the areas of politics, education, and the issues of the LGBT community, women, seniors, Pride events, religion, health and organizational processes and development in 18 breakout sessions. CAF was able to tackle this huge project with the help of 27 Community Partners and a National Sponsor, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC). Breakfast and lunch were served, allowing participants an opportunity to meet and greet others and net-work with other organizations. Several people from Tulsa attended, sharing with OKC their success with the recent opening of their Dennis R. Nell Equality Center and other projects. There were attendees from other places as well, as far axvay as Tennessee and Wyoming. Official greetings were extended from Oklahoma County Commissioner Jim Roth, OKC City Council members Sam Bowman and Ann Simank, State Senators Connie Johnson & Andrew Rice, and Oklahoma State Representative Al McAffrey. CAF President Richard Ogden and DBA (Diversity Business Association) President Monty Milburn facilitated the opening and closing sessions, geared to open discussion and responses to the education presented. A survey was gathered to assess the conference and to guide planning to make the next one even more responsive to community needs and desires. www.ozarksstar.com Activists Launch Statewide LG Advocacy By Laura Belmonte TULSA, OK__On March 24-25th, activists from across Oklahoma gathered at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center to formulate plans for statewide LGBT advocacy efforts. Sponsored by Oklahomans for Equality, the Creation Weekend meetings were facilitated by Toni Broaddus, Executive Director of the Equality Federation, Mickey Maclntyre of Real Change Partners, and Jeremy Pittman, Deputy National Field Director for the Human Rights Campaign. The Gill Foundation provided financial support. Representatives from several organizations including the Cimarron Alliance, H.O.P.E. Testing Clinic, OSU’s SODA (Sexual Orientation Diversity Association), Tulsa C.A.R.E.S., and RAIN attended. Throughout the meetings activists discussed their hopes and expectations of statewide LGBT organizing. They identified longrange political goals including non-discrimination in housing and employment, relationship recognition, safe schools, hospital visitation rights for same-sex partners, and hate crimes laws that include sexual orientation and gender expression. They also discussed possible strategies for statewide coalition-building, lobbying, voter registration and education, and electing LGBT and LGBT-friendly public officials throughout Oklahoma. A steering committee to direct these efforts is currently being formed. Interested organizations and activists are urged to participate and can contact Laura Belmonte, president of Oklahomans for Equality, at center@okeq.org for more information. For complete video coverage of Creation Weekend, see http://okgnn.net/ the STAR 5 �DBAT Hosts First Business After Hours by Suzan Hartman TULSA, OK__Business is built on relationships and what better time to start developing those relationships than during Tulsa Pride 2007! The Diversity Business Association of Tulsa, a program of Oklahomans for Equality, will host their first Business After Hours event on Thursday, June 7 from 7:00 to 9:00pm at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. Business After Hours offers excellent networking opportunities for area glbt business owners and professionals. All members of the business community are invited to attend and refreshments will be provided. There is no cost so join us at this wonderful social gettogether and make new contacts or to get reacquainted xvith former contacts. DBAT provides a forum to the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender business and professional community and its allies for the purpose of networking, professional development, creating increased visibility and strengthening relationships among business and professional community members. We’re the heart of LGBT networking and business growth. We support. We lead. We promote professional development, business diversity and personal enrichment - so get involved today! For more information contact Susan Hartman at slhartman@cox.net or 918274-1699. GET READY [:OR THE 22nd ANNUAL GREAT PLAINS RODEO By Greg Steele OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__One of the longest running and largest of Gay Rodeo Organizations in the International Gay Rodeo Association (IGRA) system, Oklahoma’s Great Plains Rodeo will kick offa fun filled weekend May 25 through May 27th 2007. The event will be held in Oklahoma City at State Fair Park, 333 Gordon Cooper Blvd. Registration will be Friday 6pm to 9pm at State Fair Park Barn 3. Rodeo performance’s will begin Saturday morning 8am with the Grand Entry around noon. The event will wind down with the awards ceremony 8pm in Barn 3. Over $10,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded. The 2007 Rodeo has added money for Bull Riding, Bronc Riding, Steer Riding, Calf Roping on Foot, Breakaway Roping, Team Roping, Barrels, Poles and Flags will only be awarded to the top three place winners for combined scores Saturday and Sunday. Awards will also include Saddles for Top Men and Women Roping and Speed Events. The host hotel is Hollywood H~tel and Suites, 3535 NW 39th OKC, OK 73112 405-947-2351. Events Schedule ......... Continued page-23 6 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 7 �8 the STAR ww~.ozarksstar.com �Tulsa Pride United for Equality June 2 - lent Outdoor Living Mitchell Savage Smith Hid-(:entury Nodern Gem Home of Rex Ball and Stephen Edwards Iplewood Secret ~3arden Home o1: Harcy Smitl~ Welcl~ Pride Festival Saturday June 9th at Veteran’s Park - 18th & Main in Downtown Tulsa 11:00 AM -5:00 PM Over 15,000 expected to attend! Parade begins 10:00 AM - 15th & Utica to LGBT Pride FestivalVeterans Park presented by oklahomans for equality (OkEq) 621 E 4th Street* Tulsa, OK wwN.ozarksstar.com the STAR 9 �LoPA~GE by Hr. Continental 2006 S~MBA HALL & Special gues~: SANTANA & TRIXIE DELUXXE CAYNE wihh Zsane’ Braxton, Ebony Hall, Krystal DeKanter, Bobby Paige !21 to dria~k www.OKContinental.com No Video Recording "At Century 21 Gold Castle our BEST prope~ies are our PEOPLU’ 4301 NW fi3rd, Suite 100 Oklahoma City, OK 73116 405.840.2t06 www. c21 goldcastle.com 10 the STAR w~v, ozarksstar.com �Commissioner Brent Rinehart’s a Piece of.olToast, (his future, that is) By James Nimmo OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__Oklahoma County Commissioner Brent Rinehart from District 2, a practicing public homophobe, was formally arraigned earlier this month for serious Oklahoma campaign law violations (ten by my count) ranging from perjury and filing false campaign reports to accepting illegal contributions from third parties and conspiracy against the state during his campaign in 2004. According to Attorney-General Drew Edmondsoffs office Rinehart, and his campaign manager Tim Pope (Pope, a former state legislator who carried a gun in his boot on to the floor of the House because he said gay, were after him, he was also found guilty of illegal campaign telemarketing in March for calls directed against Commissioner Jim Roth) are charged in Oklahoma Count), District Court with one count of conspiracy against the state, two counts of money laundering and three counts of knowingly accepting a contribution to a political candidate through an intermediary or conduit with unlawful intent. Additionally, Rinehart faces four counts of perjury. group letter the same day, as Rinehart’s arraignment in which they promised to maintain character and integrity in the face of these serious allegations of misconduct by Rinehart. In his defense, Mr.. Rinehart has spoken of a personal vendetta being directed against him by the Attorney-General and the "good ’ole boy" system he claims is responsible for his predicament. At a press conference Rinehart (Phonto right) said, "I will continue to serve the public despite the good old boy demands that I abandon public office. I look forward to my day in court where the facts ~vill reveal that I am innocent of the politically motivated charges made by Drew Edmondson." Run-of-the-mill political shenanigans you might yawn, but stay with me. Does the "good ’ole boy" system include the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation which did the ground work for the indictments? Does it also include the OK County District Attorney David Prater who, on April 11, 2007, made the legal determination that there is no current law which can remove Rinehart from office under only allegations of wrongdoing Prater concluded that conviction must first be found in court concluded DA Prater. If you’re LGBT or an ally, you know that Mr.. Rinehart, only just past the half-way mark in his first term, is finally getting his comeuppance as a public figure. From day one of his term he has ragged on Commissioner Jim Roth, District 1, for advancing what Rinehart thinks is the much talked about but seldom seen, "gay agenda". It’s so easy to tease Rinehart as he leaves himself so wide open, and his delusions are indeed grand. In an interview with TV-4 he said (and I paraphrase) "the good ’ole boys want to get me, want to get me, right now, want to get me, take me down, because they know one day I’ll be governor." Why does Rinehart think he’s had a look at the "gay agenda"? I haven’t seen it and I’ve paid lots of dues in time and money. Does Rinehart know somebody I don’t? Does he have a secret handshake? He seems to walk and talk in the normal way. These words are nearly verbatim, repetitions included. His mantra of referring to the "good ’ole boys" so often makes me think no one played with him as a child. He still feels like an outsider. He prides himself on his role as a maverick yet he has nothing constructive to show for it. He never learned to socialize and he’s carrying this grudge even now as he digs his hole of seclusion ever deeper. The only gay agenda I’ve seen is my own: to be treated under law in the same way as any other tax-paying citizen, irrespective of my sexual orientation, and according to my own observance of existing law. I’m paying the same fare as a straight man; I expect the same first-class ticket. In January 2005 Rinehart was one of 3 on the Oklahoma County, Budget Board (al! 8 county elected officials) who voted to rescind Oklahoma County’s policy of non discrimination for County employees that incudes sexual orientation. (The repeal efforts failed) There have been numerous articles in the Oklahoma City media about Rinehart being unable to work effectively with the other OK Count), officeholders. All the County elected officials issued a Who would have thought he wanted to be governor? Would such a mark of victory expunge the feelings of exclusion from his psyche? Does he need something bigger than a county commissioner’s office to assuage his private demons? Personally, I can hardly wait for Rinehart’s days in judicial court as well as the court of public opinion. Even should he be found not guilt), I doubt if the voters of District 2 will want to continue Rinehart’s employment for another term as commissioner. Challengers from all political viewpoints now have a good lead time to establishing themselves with the voters of District 2. \Vho wants stale toast to represent them at the County office? www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 11 �Eureka Diversity Rains Supreme Going a step further than hand holding, organizers arranged a public display of affection in the town’s Basin Park, during which a young lesbian proposed to her partner. by Joey De As a living memorial to a lost friend of one Diversity Pride Committee member, the weekend featured a "Recovery in Pride" forum hosted by Mr. Marty Perry, the CEO of The Pride Institute. Followed by a self-help style meeting, the forum allowed participants to discuss how their sexuality may have influenced substance abuse or support healthy ways for them to overcome it. EUREKa, SPRINGS, AR~If Disney Land is the happiest place on earth, Eureka Springs, Arkansas, must be a close second. Nesded in the Ozarks, an hour away from Branson, MO, Eureka has made its name as a tourist destination with its eclectic array of nick-nack shops, historical architecture and southern hospitality. The community’s dozen-plus annual festivals help to attract a diverse crowd of visitors from across the country, including the ’iGaylien beings" who landed there from Apr. 13 - 15. Coinciding on the same weekend with Eureka’s annual UFO convention (yes, you read right), the Spring Diversity celebration welcomed beings of all.types to inhabit the streets of the quiet town. Although attendance was significantly reduced due to weather through out the region, visitors came from as far away as Ohio to explore the streets of Eureka Springs. As laid back as the town itself, Diversity Pride offered a mix of events designed to appeal to couples who are past the up-allnight party phase of their life and to those who still don’t go down until the sun comes up (take it as you will). Many of the events showcased the town itself, spotlighting the forty five gay owned restaurants, dubs and businesses. Locals happily hosted tours of the area, diversity meals and spiritual events for the mostly 28-35 crowd who braved the rain, snow and ice. Advertised as a "Diversity Pride" festival, the weekend was more about embracing diversity than it was celebrating pride. With no major central event such as an all day picnic or parade, visitors were more integrated through out the community then at most Prides, where celebrants flock to one location. Although there was a visible show of pride in rainbow feathered boas and flags, the refreshing attraction of the weekend was its lack of spectacle. "It’s nice to be able to come to a town where you feel like you’re the ’norm’" expressed one gaylian visiting from St. Louis. "It’s refreshing to see people walking around holding their partner’s hand on the street." 12 the STAR evening when the younger crowd to finally show it’s face. Although inhibited by a lack of sunshine, the 2007 Eureka Springs Diversity Pride Celebration followed through with a promise made to all of its visitors. All beings were welcome. De For visitots who did not Good, clean, ..is not way to describe "Gayco" comedy the of Eureka Auditoduring the i Diversity par- in organized events, the shops of Eureka opened their doors, with many offering a "family discount." leries, jewelers and a puppet shop welcomed were browsing, buying and in some cases trying to escape the rain. ticipate Highlighting the weekend for visitors of all ages ~vas the return appearance of Chicago’s "Gayco" show, who offered two performances in the town’s historic "Auditorium." The group, who specializes in improvisational comedy offered a master’s workshop for visitors and even posed for pictures with gaylians after their show. For those who grew tired of shopping (or the endless up-hill walking) the bars of Eureka provided an impressive array of entertainment choices for a town its size. Whether visiting Henri’s, Jack’s Place or Chelsea’s for live music, Karaokeing with "Tiny" at Uncle Tuckers; or dancing the night away at The Tiki Torch, the liquor flowed and the good times rolled into the Following the success of the ’ appearance last year, Organizers of diversity weekend brought the troupe back to tackle pressing issues in the gay world such as marriage, don’t ask don’t tell, adoption and coming out. With a well articulated mix of low and high brow humor, the seven Gayco players entertained audiences with their unique blend of improvisational and sketch comedy. Originating as a gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender outreach project of the legendary Second City Comedy Club in Chicago, Gayco has been entertaining communities across the nation for almost eleven years. "Second City saw us as a one maybe two show outreach to the GLBT community," says Andy Eninger, one of the group’s founders. According to the performer, although there is no formal relationship between the two groups, they maintain a close working friendship. "We outgrew them, and they xvanted us to spin off and do our own thing, but they still watch us closely." Continued page-26 www.ozarksstar.com �www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 13 �Who was Allen Schindler? As word spread that Schindler was gay and discharge proceedings were underway, the abuse increased. "It scares me a little," he wrote. "You never know who would want to injure me or cease my existence." By late October, the Belleau Wood had reached Sasebo and Schindler’s confinement had ended. He began frequenting local bars, where he met a group of gay American entertainers, including dancer Eric Underwood, whom he told about the harassment. The murder of gay sailor Allen Schindler in October 1992 contributed to a national debate about GLBT people in the military that remains unresolved to this day. Schindler was born in December 1969 and grew up in Chicago Heights, Ill. A mediocre student, he joined the Navy right out of high school to obtain G.I. Bill money to attend veterinary school. He was first stationed in San Diego, where he frequented gay clubs and found a boyfriend. In 1991, he fulfilled his dream of serving aboard the aircraft carrier USS Midway, a ship with a relatively tolerant atmosphere. But after the Midway was decommissioned a year later, he was reassigned to the USS Belleau Wood, which had a reputation for a rough and rowdy crew. Schindler and other sailors suspected of being gay xvere routinely called "faggots" and shoved as they walked the ship’s halls. One night in September 1992, as the ship was en route from San Diego to Sasebo, Japan, Schindler, a radioman, broadcast an unauthorized message, "2-Q-T-2-B-S-T-R8" ("too cute to be straight"), which led to a month-long disciplinary confinement. Soon thereafter, he admitted to commanding officers that he was gay: Though aware that the disclosure would likely lead to his discharge, Schindler nevertheless felt a sense of relief: "If you can’t be yourself, then who are you?" he wrote in his diary. 14 the STAR On the night of Oct. 27, after spending the evening drinking, two of Schindler’s shipmates, Terry Helvey and Charles Vins, followed him into a public bathroom in a park near the base. Helvey began to beat and kick Schindler, with Vins also joining in; Helvey finished off the attack by stomping on Schindler’s throat. As the assailants fled, wimesses arriving on the scene summoned the Shore Patrol, and medics tried to revive Schindler without success. The pathologist who conducted the autopsy reported that Schindler’s injuries were "similar to a highspeed auto accident or a low-speed aircraft accident." His face was beaten so badly that his mother could only identify him by tattoos on his arms. Helvey and Vins were identified by wimesses and arrested the next morning. As Helvey was being led awa); he told a shipmate, "The bastard deserved it." Vins received a quick court-martial and was sentenced to just four months in exchange for testimony against Helvey. The incident received little press coverage until Underwood and his associates wrote a letter to several publications exposing the antigay harassment Schindler had faced. The military newspaper pacific Stars and Stripes printed the lettel; and a reporter from the paper investigated the story, but the Navy tried to cover up the nature of the killing, going so far as to leak a rumor that Schindler and Helvey were gay lovers who had had a falling out. Gay activists raised a furor over the murder, at a time when the issue of gays in the military was high on the national agenda due to Bill Clinton’s campaign promise to lift the ban on GLBT service members. Michael Petrelis of Queer Nation - who vowed to make Schindler the "gay Rodney King" organized a press conference at the Pentagon in December. Friends and supporters held a memorial in San Diego, while the Human Rights Campaign flew Schindler’s mother, Dorothy Hajdys, to Washington to speak at a candlelight vigil. Hajdys, a fundamentalist Christian who initially had trouble accepting that her son was gay; became an unlikely activist for GLBT civil rights. "If you would have told me I would have been at the March on Washington standing before a million people and being seen all over the world, I would have told you you were nuts," she later told an interviewer. Schindler’s killing remained front-page news throughout the spring of 1993. In May, Helvey was court-martialed in Japan, with his defense focusing on his abusive childhood and use of steroids. He admitted the crime, first claiming that Schindler had made a sexual advance in the bathroom and later saying that he found homosexuals "disgusting, sick, and scary." The incident never would have happened, he added, if gays weren’t allowed to join the military. Helvey pleaded guilty to murder with intent to commit great bodily harm, thereby avoiding the death penalty for premeditated murder. In 2002, Hajdys and gay activists successfully opposed his parole, and he continues to serve a life sentence at Fort Leavenworth, Kan. Schindler put an individual face on the debate about gays in the military, with both sides pointing to his murder to justify their positions. In November 1993, President Clinton signed the "Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell" policy into law, after Congress and the Pentagon opposed lifting the ban. According to the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network more than 10,000 men and women have been discharged from the armed forces since the policy went into effect. www.ozarksstar.com �Simba Ro Ha l To Host Miss Oklahoma Cor dnenta At Club Majestic Tulsa. TULSA, OK__Simba R. Hall is a creation and alter ego of LeSean D. Lewis. Simba was introduced to the field of pageantry in 2001 at Mr. and Miss Renaissance in Atlanta, GA. A good friend had heard him sing in the professional arena and needed some vocals to back his poetry. When Simba hit the stage, he was mesmerized. From there, he went to compete for Mr. Liberty, Mr. Renaissance, Mr. Duval, and Mr. Continental. He captured the title of Mr. Renaissance in 2004. This was followed by his win of Mr. Duval 2005 hosted in Jacksonville, FL. Simba R. Hall has always wanted to give back to his gay community. With this in mind, he used Renaissance as a platform to form the King’s Alliance. The King’s Alliance is a compilation of all the male representatives holding National titles. ~Pney perform a National show every year called M.E.N.S. (Male Entertainers of National Systems) Night. They donate all proceeds to a non-profit organization. Over the past three years they have raised over $4000. ~xis was recognized by the elite system that he now represents, Mr. Continental. It took Simba three times to capture this title. Each time he stood in the top five next to the winners, Ray Matthews and Tony Desario. \~qxen Simba won, he started using his popularity throughout the community, adding more benefit shows and fundraisers. He started a couple’s night which 7will feature duets from the kings and queens representing National titles. This is to be held at the Baton in June. He also had a Continental Christmas in Atlanta that raised over $3500 for Child Kind, an organization that cares for terminally ill children. Simba wants to be remembered for bringing the community to the forefront and showing the world that being gay is just a preference. \re are just as human as the next individual. Simba is also working on an album that ~vill be available in the fall. At the current time he is touring the US as Mr. Continental where he receives raves reviews and standing ovations. Simba Hall will Host the Miss Oklahoma Continental on Friday May 25th at Club Majestic in Tulsa at 8pm. This will be the fourth Miss Competition in Oklahoma produced by Monica Freeman. w~v.ozarksstar.com THE AUSTK LIAN BEE GEES SHOW at Tulsa’s Historic Brady Theater TULSA, OK___Having received nothing less than fantastic reviews, "The Australian BEE GEES Show" is coming to Tulsa’s Historic Brady Theater on Friday May 4th. Ttxe house lights fade slowly and there is a cheer of excitement, then a brief moment of anticipation. It begins with a single bass note, then a chime that dances around the room, a whisper of strings, a stab of brass and percussion, a flash of light and the image flickers to life. "The Australian BEE GEES Show" is a multi-media concert event with the state-of-the-art sound, superb lighting and giant screens, featuring video clips, live camera images and stunning graphics. "The Australian BEE GEES Show" has captured the look, the sound and the personality that defines one of the most successful and adored acts in musical history. The show is presented from a contemporary perspective and has evolved to become the definitive live celebration of four decades of wonderful music written by the Brothers Gibb. Ten years in the making, a lot have been said about "The Australian BEE GEES Show", including some kind words from one of the Brothers Gibb’s niece, Deborah McLane, "When I first saw the show I had high expectations of what the performance would be like, those boys did more than exceed my expectations. I was completely moved by their harmonies and the way they perfected the whole Bee Gees image. This is the most outstanding Bee Gees tribute show I have experienced." For one night only, experience the magic, "The Australian ~BEE GEES Show." In concert at Tulsa’s Historic Brady Theater Friday May 4th, 2007. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. and show starts at 8:00 p.m. Tickets cost $27.50 and $32.50 and went on sale beginning at 10 a.m. on Monday March 26th at www.bradytheater.com, w~vw. etix.com, Tulsa’s Historic Brady Theater at 105 West Brady, or by calling the Brady Theater Ticket Office at (918) 582-7239. the STAR 15 ��Tuna Soup with Orange and Avocado Fresh tuna meat is easy to overcook and can sometimes be disappointingly dry and chewy, but in this juicy mixture it stays succulent and delicious. Ingredients: 2 - 3 tbls. Olive Oil 2 Onions (peeled, halved, and very thinly sliced) 2 Garlic Cloves (peeled and finely chopped) 1 tspn. Ground Cumin Pinch of Cinnamon 2 tspn. Chopped Fresh Parsley Finely Grated Zest and Juice of 1 Lime 2/3 cup Orange Juice 1 1/4 Fresh Tuna Steaks (cut into 3/4 inch cubes) 1 3/4 qts. Fish Stock Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper 6 Large Tomatoes (cut into short pieces) 2 firm but Ripe Avocados (peeled, pitted) 40 oz. Sugar Snap Peas or Green Beans (cut into neat cubes) Sprigs of Fresh Flat-Leafed Parsley (for garnish) Procedure: 1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan. Add the onions and gently fry until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and gently fry for 2 minutes. 2. Add the cumin, cinnamon, parsley, lime zest and Juice, orange juice, tuna, stock, and a little salt and pepper. Bring to the boil, reduce the heat, cover the pan, and simmer for 15 minutes. 3. Meanwhile, soak the tomatoes in boiling ~vater for several minutes until the skin xvill peel easily away. Cut away the hard cores and chop the flesh. Add to the pan ~vith the sugar snap peas or beans. Simmer for 4-5 minutes. 4. Just before serving the soup, stir the avocado cubes into the pan. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley. Serves: 6 More on the Hotel Bel Air, page 1.19. ��"TRAVELING IN OUR FABULOL by Donald Pile & Ray Williams Featuring Cuisine From Coast HOTEL BEL-AIR 70! Stone Cmnyon Road Los Fmgeles; nitelv the most "~e dining room at the Hotel BeI-Mr is, ~vithout doubt, the most romcamc restaurants on, the planet, and one beautiful ! We dine As it is terribly expensive, we always order consists of a lovely Salad, soup of the day" mad finger sandwiches. And this costs $3~3.00! bur W~rth every pelmy o~it. ~¢~rwiOzarksstar:com �Phe drag-themed Petticoat Bruncheon at Bump & Grind is one ofDenver’s best excuses to get out of bed on weekwnd mo,~vings. (Photo by Andrew Collins) The Capitol Hill neighborhood, which extends east from the Capitol building, is where many of the city’s GLBT residents live. On sunny days, check out lovely Cheesman Park and the nearby the Denver Botanic Garden. If you’re keen on shopping, head a few miles southeast of downtown to the Cherry Creek area, where you’ll find numerous opportunities for browsing and bargain-hunting at upscale Cherry Creek Shopping Center and Cherry Creek North. Tnese two premier shopping destinations contain a mix of top chain and independent stores. In the evening, try out one of the neighborhood’s fine restaurants, such as trendy Ocean, a haute seafood eatery, or North, which serves exceptional modern Italian fare. By Andrew Collins Denver has long been one of the country’s great centers of lesbian and gay culture. The GLBT community here is highly visible - socially, professionally, and politically - and gay-friendly restaurants, bars, hotels, and other businesses are easy to find in a number of prominent neighborhoods. With several new or expanded high-profile museums, easy access to skiing and hiking, a sunny climate, and relative affordability compared with other big urban centers, the Mile High City makes for a highly appealing vacation destination, whether for a couple of days or a full week .of exploration. The city’s bustling, modern downtown skyline is dominated by soaring skyscrapers. Here you can wander along 16th Street, a popular pedestrian mall filled with mostly upscale chain shops. Or explore artsy Larimar Square, a restored Victorian block of hip boutiques and cafes - be sure to check out the Market at Larimer Square, a coffeehouse-bakery-deli where a cool crowd enjoys mocha lattes, hearty breakfast burritos, and hefty pastrami sandwiches. Larimar Square marks the edge of dapper LoDo, which began as the city’s shipping 20 the STAR and retail center in the late 19th century. As recently as the 1980s, however, the neighborhood had been reduced to slums and abandoned brick warehouses. LoDo’s comeback began v,;hen artists started converting these classic redbrick buildings into galleries and studios. A flood of restaurants, coffeehouses, and shops followed, as did stately Coors Field, home to baseball’s Colorado Rockies. You can easily spend a few hours exploring this attractive district, perhaps dropping by the Tattered Cover, one of the country’s most beloved independent bookstores, which has an outstanding GLBT section. Another retail must is Rockmount Ranch Wear, a circa-1940s outlet for authentic Western shirts, belts, hats, and bolo ties - this is the very shop that provided those down-home sexy shirts worn by Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal in Brokeback Mountain. South of downtown you’ll find Capitol Hill, which is anchored on one end by the giltdomed State Capitol building. It overlooks a grassy mall surrounded by the Colorado History Museum and the spectacular Denver Art Museum, which underwent a dramatic expansion and redesign in 2005. Dining is one area where Denver has truly come into its own in recent years. If you’re a serious foodie, sample one of the restaurants run by Denver’s acclaimed expert on innovative Mexican cuisine, Richard Sandoval. Best bets include Tamayo, near lively Larimer Square, and trendy Zengo, a boldly decorated space just north of LoDo, where Sandoval fuses the best of Asian and Latin cuisine, serving everything from sushi to ceviche. A good bet for dining in LoDo is Vesta, which operates on a quirky premise: you choose three sauces (perhaps pistachio-mint or grilled onion jam) for dipping with whatever entree you choose, from grilled venison to harissa-roasted half chicken. You’ll find simpler fare at Dixon’s Downtown Grill, a nice choice for fish-and-chips and bluecheese burgers, and the festive Wynkoop Brewing Company, which serves the best green chile stew in town, plus a wide range of handcrafted beers. Near Larimer Square, chic Rioja serves creative, world-beat cuisine, such as Dungeness crab-and-shiso spring rolls, and grilled maple-cured pork chops with Calvados sauce. Favorite restaurants on Capitol Hill include I1 Vicino, which turns out creative pizzas and salads along with microbrewed ales, and Sparrow, a convivial neighborhood spot serving such inventive regional American fare as pumpkin-chicken served with pancetta risotto, sage, and cider. The local java chain Diedrich’s Coffee has a particularly gay-popular branch in Capitol Hill, too. www.ozarksstar.com �The city has some great places for breakfast fare, including the gay lave Racine’s, which is open late and serves three meals daily. For amazingly tasty pancakes, head to Snooze, an offbeat storefront space near Coors Field where you might start the morning offwith pineapple-upside~down pancakes or vanilla-almond oatmeal brulee. On weekend mornings, don’t miss the legendary drag brunch, called Petticoat Bruncheon, held at Bump & Grind, a colorful bakery and care. One of city’s great strengths is its cultural scene, with maW of the top events held at the esteemed, high-tech Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA), the second-largest such space in the nation (trailing only New York City’s Lincoln Center). tt comprises several performance venues and hosts everything from nationally touring musicals to acclaimed opera. Before a performance, plan to have dinner at DCPA’s top restaurant, Kevin Taylor’s. In this elegant basement space, sample such creative fare as Black Angus carpaccio with white-truffle oil, or charbroiled Colorado lamb chops with braised lentils and black olive jus. Denver has a friendly, eclectic gay nightlife, with a pleasing mix of hip cocktail lounges, pulsing dance clubs, and friendly neighborhood bars. One of the most popular hangouts is J.R.’s, an upscale, bi-level video bar in Capitol Hill that hosts such entertaining events as gong show karaoke and Broadway musical sing-alongs. Nearby Charlie’s is a famously fun country-western club with line-dancing and two-stepping, plus a restaurant serving decent American fare. The Denver Detour is a mostly lesbian-oriented hangout that’s popular early in the evening for happy hour cocktails - it’s right by the State Capitol. Other good women’s options include tHERe Denver, a lesbian-owned coffeehouse and lounge, and Ms. C’s, a long-running lesbian dance club a 20-minute drive east of downtown. whimsical, retro-fabulous hotel that looks like something out of an Austin Powers movie. Each floor of guestrooms is themed differently - rooms on the eighth level have a sci-fi look, while those on the 12th are done with a get-your-groove-on dance-floor theme. Moderate rates, VW Bug-shaped alarm clocks, and a cool eatery called the Corner Office Restaurant and Martini Bar are among the Curtis’ many charms. If you want to be close to the fabulous shopping of Cherry Creek, consider booking a room at the posh JW Marriott Denver, a contemporary 11-stoW hotel whose cushy accommodations have 32-inch flat-screen TVs, DVD/CD players, marble-and-granite bathrooms, and plush bedding with custom duvets and linens. The sterling service is another plus. One of the most romantic options is the gay-owned Capitol Hill Mansion B&B, a stately Queen Anne Victorian on an attractive residential street. Owners Jay Hadley and Carl Schmidt serve a lavish full breakfast each morning as wel! as refreshments and snacks in the afternoon; guests enjoy such pleasing amenities as free Wi-Fi and fresh flowers in every room, and gas fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and private balconies in the top units. In the same neighborhood, the gay-friendly Castle Marne B&B offers similarly cushy, antiquesfilled rooms. The imposing 1889 building is one of Denver’s most distinctive houses, with its elaborate turrets and stonework. Probably no Denver hotel is more famous than the prestigious Brown Palace Hote! & Spa, which has hosted such dignitaries as Teddy Roosevelt and Sun Yat-sen during its 115-year tenure. Even if you don’t have a chance to stay in one of the hotel’s lavish rooms, consider dropping by for the daily afternoon high tea or evening cocktails in the famed Atrium Lobby, or for the decadent Dom Perignon brunch held in Ellyngton’s Restaurant on Sunday mornings. Just south of Capitol Hill, the South Broadway area has several notable locals joints, including B.J.’s Carousel, which has its own volleyball court and a casual restaurant. You’ll find a somewhat cruisy bunch at the Compound, a low-attitude dance club that’s popular with everyone from collegiate hipsters to middle-aged bears. The Triangle, for the serious leather crowd, has a big after-hours following and a notoriously frisky basement. And Boyztown is one of the better places in town to watch strippers strut their stuff. Weekends are the best time to check out Denver’s most happening gay nightclub, the always-packed Tracks Denver, a massive warehouse disco with two pulsing dance floors, one spinning the latest club music, the other featuring classic tunes from the ’70s and ’80s. Denver has a number of memorable gay-friendly hotels. The swanky, pet-friendly Hotel Monaco is a top choice for its hip, Parisian-inspired aesthetic and remarkably friendly and helpful service. Vibrant, stylish decor and quirk), in-room touches, such as animal-print robes and pet goldfish, make this downtown boutique property a fan favorite. The on-site restaurant, Panzano, serves firstrate contemporary Italian fare. A new kid on the block that’s earned praise for its stylish look as well as its location across from the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, The Curtis opened early in 2007 and looks like just another high-rise from the exterior. But inside you’ll discover a www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 21 �MAY 2007 Gay LoA. All the Way One of the perks of being a "nationally syndicated columnist," which is my newest personal brand, is getting books in the mail to review. If only that was totally true. When it comes to the relationship between the community and the notorious LAPD...well, let’s just say it wasn’t a Hollywood love story. As the latest volume slipped out of its padded envelope, I saw "sexual outlaws, power politics, and lipstick lesbians" set in small caps across the middle of the cover. Mmmmm, this book is for me. Gay L.A.: A History of,.. (insert those three descriptors that caught my attention here), written by award-winning historians Lillian Faderman and Stuart Timmons, turns on its ear the notion that the lesbian and gay movement started in any one particular city. "The LAPD in the years after WW~I and into the 1960s was really particularly vicious in regard to lesbians and gay men," Faderman told me in a recent interview. "The police hired Hollywood rejects - handsome young men looking to break into the movie industry - who would then go to the places gay men cruised, hang out, strike up conversations, and then the handcuffs would come out, and the gays would be arrested." L.A.’s gay roots go way beygnd the emergence of Hollywood in the 1920s. We need to go all the way back before California was a state, before we were even a nation, and we find the raale native Americans who inhabited these lands to be quite fluid in their sexuality. California’s name came from Hernan Cortes, the explorer who discovered the tract of land now lmown as the Golden State. It seems that Cortes was taken with the 15th-century "protolesbian tale," as the authors put it, about a mythical isle called California, where Queen Califia lived among strong, butch women. Just like in the Amazonia legend, Califia’s women "waged bloody war on other lands, killing most of the males but carrying a few so that they might copuJate with them for the sake of procreation." For some reason, Cortes put that myth together with this new land and wrote "California" across the map of what was to become North America. The name stuck, but the legend - like those of most who come and go in this town known for making legends - faded into obscurity until Faderman and Timmons connected their gay dots. It wasn’t until Hollywood happened, with its star-making quality, that L.A. and gay really started to become synonymous. We flocked to this city of creativity and makebelieve because we could do just that - create and make believe we could be whatever we 22 the STAR It wasn’t only gay men who were victim~ized by the cops. "Butch women had a hard time, too," said Faderman. "They were very often arrested for ’masquerading.’" \Vghat is this "masquerading"? Being butch and dressing that ~vay. It seems that there was a laxv on the books, in response to how outrageous the puritanical city fathers thought things were getting, that men couldn’t be seen in public in women’s clothes, and women couldn’t don men’s clothes either. Reading this, I was disgusted by how those we pay taxes to for protection - in a city, the police, for the nation, the armed forces - victimize our community. While "don’t ask, don’t tell" is still in place, the LAPD has changed its tune to some degree. Now they’re recruiting us to their ranks - us meaning lesbians and gays; transgender people need not apply. "The West Hollywood sheriff’s department really wants lesbian and gay folks," explained Faderman. "But on the other hand, I read about a trans person who supported herself by prostitution. The police would take her in the back alley practically every night and rape her." As someone who grew up in L.A., Faderman seems to be particularly proud of the lesbian and gay firsts of her native city. Honestly, these were things I never knew. I always considered Stonewall to be the "start" - that is, after all, what we celebrate every June. In 1947, for example, the first lesbian magazine, Vice Versa, was started in L.A. A few years later, the Mattachine Society was born - the child of Harry Hay. Ten years before the Stonewall Riots, drag queens and hustlers in downtown L.A. took to the streets to protest the LAPD’s consistent harassment of them at their hangout, Cooper Donuts. In 1968, Troy Perry founded the first gay church, the Metropolitan Community Church, and in ’71 lesbian and gay Jews had a welcoming place to worship at the nation’s first gay synagogue, Beth Chaim Chadashim. "With L.A., there were all these incredible firsts," said Faderman. "It’s sort of incredible that no one has observed that before, and no one has tried to make a history out of it." Until now, that is. This book is a great read that is both entertaining and educational. The nonfiction addict that I am, Gay L.A. gave me my fix of facts and fun that kept me turning the pages. I really xvanted to kmow what happened next. I can’t wait until we all write the next chapters as we continue to tear down the barriers to our freedom. www.ozarksstar.com �Rodeo Schedule Thursday, May 24, 2007, from 9pm till ?, The Great Plains Rodeo Kick off Party, featuring the current royalty and all former royalty we can encourage to attend, at the Finishline. Friday, May 25, 2007, from 6pm till 9pm, The Great Plains Rodeo Registration Party, featuring contestant registration, a silent auction, and a fundraiser shiny, at the Oklahoma State Fair Park Barn 3. Saturday, May 26, 2007, from 8am till ?, Rodeo events with grand entry around noonish at the Oklahoma State Fair Park Barn 6. Tickets are $10.00. Saturday, May 26, 2007, from 6:30pm till 9pm, The Texas Tea Party, featuring the IGRA Royalty, The Texas Royalty and the Oklahoma Royalty, and others, at the COPA. Sunday, May 27, 2007, from 8am till ?, Rodeo events with grand entry around noonish at the Oklahoma State Fair Park Barn 6. Tickets are $10.00. Sunday, May 27, 2007, from 8pm till ?, Rodeo awards ceremony, at the Oklahoma State Fair Park Barn 3. BBQ Dinner $10 per plate advance purchase by end grand entry Sunday see any OGRA royalty member or Officer. Jays ModelAgency Talent Search ~ Males 18 to 21 Jays Model Agency is Seeking New Faces for our 2007 Online Gallery of Artistic Nude, Casual& Formal Wear Models. We Pay Our Models $300 to $500 Call Today (405) 946-5297 See Our Display Ads in Frest~rn~: & Men Magaaine You’re guaranteed a fun filled and exciting weekend at Oklahoma’s largest Gay Rodeo. Tickets can be purchased at the gate. For more information go to: www.ogra.net or call 405-290-8779 Creating Community for Peop ÷ :ving with H~ViAIDS 50t c (3) Non Profit Organizatio,:t Our House, Too offers a vadoty of activities for people who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves. We invite anyone who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail ha rrismmjr@yahoo.com. www.ozarksstar.com The STAR 23 ��www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 25 �GAYCO From page 12 With seven players at their Eureka appearance, the troupe delivered a performance that would make the raunchiest of comedians and the driest of analysts proud. Opening their show with a stirring anthem of "gay recruitment" the comedians set the precedent that over the next hour and a half nothing, not even death, would be sacred. DBA METRO OKC PRIDE EVENT A SUCCESS By Jeanne Flanigan Blending lesbian issues and gay issues, the comedy of Gayco had a little something for everybody. Whether it was a widower admitting her secret love for her best friend or the gay man dating the barely eighteen year old, the situations that Gayco created were as real as the performers themselves (even though it may take a few years to see "Baby Time Share" become a reality). ’%V4e like to take hot topics of the day, but also what is going on in our lives," explains Eninger. "Sometimes we’ll have a sketch completely written and sometimes we’ll just improvise it. We use the ensemble to improve each idea and make it better." Eninger says that thanks to the unique backgrounds of each of the core cast members and their crew of artistic associates, that the show is able to have such a wide ranging appeal. "A lot of people in the comedy and improvisational tend to have a broad background, most everyone has some kind of theatrical training and has worked with some kind of improvisational group. You add on to that having a broad based understanding of things like politics, anth.ropology and cultural references to make your jokes as on top of your intelligence as possible." "We all (the cast) have an activist streak in us," Eninger continues, "we all have a message we want to get across that’s paramount, but we’re also not afraid to get a little low brow. Gay people like that too. It’s nice to show a human scene with a couple and just flip to show something like ’Club Uranus.’" During the show, the Gayco Performers were not the only ones who had fun on stage. Participants from an improvisational workshop held the day before xvere invited to become a part of the act. According to the group, one of their favorite parts of touring is reaching out to the communities they visit to help aspiring performers (or those wbo just want to do it for fun) learn a little bit more about their craft. If and when Gayco will returns to Eureka Springs is not yet known, but for the group that travels the world, Diversity Pride is a favorite stop. Be sure not to miss them if you have the chance. 26 the STAR event. Drag Queen Bingo, benefiting Our House Too sponsored by Regional Aids Funds Ameri-Corp and the Cains. An annual event in Tulsa, this years theme will be "Tulsa’s Dream Girls Present Motown", the 60’s remember. Local celebrities will be performing and a show stopping appearance by Tulsa King Ty West. The event will be hosted by Kris Kohl, a veteran performer of 31 years. Twenty additional fantastic female impersonators will be entertaining you. Prizes for Bingo and door give-a ways have been donated by local business and associations. Doors open at 8pm. Tickets are on sale now, Milton Harris 918-585-9552. All proceeds will benefit Our House Too a Tulsa area aids outreach activity center. Photo by I~ctor Gorin: Left to Right, Reverend Scott Jones of Cathedral ofHope Drag Emcee Ivana Deville, Jeanne Flaniagn. A LANDMAP K GONE OKLAHOMA CITY, OK~Xhe Diversity Business Association of Metro OKC hosted the Second Annual Silent Auction and Benefit for OKC Pride on March 29 at the Copa. Nick Post and his staff provided a banquet buffet, a festive ambience, and space for 6 locations throughout the club for auction items. The auction included approximately 60 items, ranging from original art to tools and electronics. The benefit made over $7000 for the OKC Pride Festival and Parade, which is celebrating their 20th Anniversary in June. By Victor Gorin This time the event raised over twice as much as it did last year, thanks largely to entertainers Alison Scott, Lady Spencer, and the magnificent Ivana Deville. Three large items were raffled off, with several generous people buying over 100 tickets each. The club was filled to capacity with many DBA members, a!ong with other movers and shakers of the community. DBA Metro meets twice monthly for networking and educational opportunities. For more information !og on to www.dbametro.org. Drag Queen Bingo _At Cains Ballroom, Tu]lsa. By Randy Vineyard TULSA, OK__On May 4th the Cains Ballroom will play host to yet another historic \Vho Remembers the Free Spirit? OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__Maybe it wasn’t so long ago, or maybe longer ago than some of us might xvant to admit, when OKC’s most fabulous place to dance and party was the Free Spirit. Located at 3121 N. Classen, originally an Episcopalian Church, it first changed to an upscale restaurant called Dino’s Steak & Spaghetti before it became the Free Spirit disco in 1977, owned by Steve Sixbey & managed by Michael Tarr. Affectionately nicknamed "the Spirit"( and its regulars "Spirit Queens") it became the "in" place to be featuring cutting edge dance music, some of Oklahoma’s early fabulous pageants, and even appearances by major artists including Sylvester & Disco Tex/Sex-o-Lets. In 1982 the club became Jazzy’s, a straight club with a predominantly black clientele. It changed back to the gay focused Free Spirit again in 1984, competing head on with Angles which had just opened in 1982, and the war began as to who would be OKC’s premier gay dance dub. The partiers !oved the battle, which resulted in all you could drink for $5 on Fridays and Saturdays at both venues, but the Free Spirit finally capitulated in August of 1984. Again going through a series of straight ventures, it emerged again as a gay club in 1986 renamed "~he Bar," even though it was still referred to as "the Spirit." ~hat venture failed as well, and after a long run as the straight club" Infinity" it made a few more changes before finally closing the doors for good. The building sat abandoned for many years before finally being demolished in March of this year. "Now a vacant lot with a future unforeseen at this time, memories of that place will always inspire priceless memories for some of us to treasure and pass on. www.ozarksstar.com �MO THE COPA: Strip-Off Contest 12am BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pm "~DNESDAY May 2 BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pro. THE COPA: Strip-Off Contest 12am BAMBOO LOUNGE: Free Brunch 2pro, CLUB MAJESTIC: Carla Lee Love Show 10pm THE COPA: Rachael Erikks Show 10:30pro HNISHLINE: Dart Tournament !0pro THURSDBX May 24 CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Show wt Rachael Erikks THE COPA: Varie9" Show 10:30pro THE COPA: Open Talent w/Shemoane Somemore t0:30pm FINISHHNE: Dart Tournament I0pm BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pro BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pm. THE COPA: Varlet7 Shmv 10:30pro THURSDAY May3 BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pro THE COPA: \4trieiy Show 10:30pro FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pro LEDO: Kari-Okie host, Pancho 9pro FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pm CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Show ~v/Rachad Erikks \ May [25 THE COPA: Strip-OffContest Midnight. THE COPA: Open Talent wtShemoane Somemore 10:30pro LEDO: Kari-Okie host. Pancho 9pro FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pm CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Show wtRachael Erikks THE COPA: Open Talent wlShe~noane Somemore 10:30pm FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pm THE COPA: Mate Dancers 9pro SATU LEDO: Kari-Okie host, Pancho 9pro May5 GUSHERS: Late Night Breakfast Buffet 1 am-3:30am FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pro CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Show w/ Rachaet Erikks CLUB MAJESTIC: /vlajestic Kings Show 10pm. THE COPA: Open Talent wlShemoane Somemore 10:30pro FINISHHNE: Dart ~bumament 10pm OGRA: RODEO. OKC THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro GUSHERS: Late Night Breakfast Buffet lam-3:30am SUN 27 OGRA: RODEO, OKC BAMBOO LOUNGE: Brunch 2pro BIG Memorial Cookout. CLUB MAJESTIC: Catia Lee Love Show 10pm "H-IE COPA: Rachael Erikks Show 10:30pm LEDO: Kari-Okie host, Pancho 9pro BAMBOO LOUNGE: Free Brunch LUB b~JESTIC: Carla Lee Love Show 10pm THE COPA: P, achael Erikks Show 10:30pm THE COPA: Varieq, Show 10:30pm THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro SUN CLUB NL&JESTIC: Miss Oklal~oma Continental 2007 - Doors open 8pro OGRA: RODEO, OKC BA!vIBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pm THURSDAY M~v 17 THE COPA: Male Dancers 9prn THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro GUSHERS: Late Night Breakfast Buffet lam-3:30am MEMORIAL DAY THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pm BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pro, THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pm THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro GUSHERS: Late Night Breakfast Buffet lam-3:30am THE COPA: Strip-Off Contest Midnight. BAMBOO LOUNGE: Free Brunch 2pm, Kris Kohl Show 8pm CLUB MAJESTIC: Catia Lee Love Show 10pm THE COPA: Rachael Erikks Show 10:30pm BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pm DAY May 30 THE COPA: gariety Show 10:30pro FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pm CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Show w/ Rachael Erildcs BA~MBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pm. THE COPA: Strip-Off Contest Midnight. www, ozarksstar.com THE COPA: Open Talent wlShemoane Somemore 10:30pro HNISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pm LEDO: Kari-Okie host, Pancho 9pm After Dark is a free service to ou~ advertisers and is the responsibility of the advertiser to inform the STAR in writing of updates, additions or discontinued events, q’he STAR is not responsible for accurac): the STAR 27 �"Doodle, Capricorn!" Mercury aligned with the Sun in Taurus makes us stubbornly attached to our ideas. Both orbs clashing with Pluto bring those ideas under harsh scrutiny. Arguments are inevitable but offer chances to learn. ARIES (~arch 20 -April 19): Holding fast to your principles doesn’t require arguing with everyone who disagrees with you. Better to challenge yourself and see if your ideals are strong enough to encompass more than just the ideas you’re comfortable with. TAURUS (April 21) - May 21)): Little disagreements can feel like major personal attacks. Try to shrug them off and relax. A little sexual exploration can take the edge off, although that might also feel like a challenge. Still, it should be a challenge you can rise to! GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)): An erotic retreat with your partner can relieve pressures that are making you feel paranoid. Even if you (~an’t get away, stop imagining hostile agendas behind every conversation. Meditation or a dream journal can help unravel what’s really bothering you. SAG~TTAR~US (November 22 o December 20): Safe sex is as important now as ever. Your health is extremely vulnerable right now, especially in erotic situations, but also while you’re at work or exercising. Re-examine your habits at work, working out, and "working it." There’s always room for improvement! CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19): Your efforts at playful repartee may seem a bit artificial, as if you’re trying to hide something that is bothering you. At an unconscious level, you probably are. Doodling, humming, or singing in free association can help provide clues to what’s behind the banter. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): How far do your ambitions and dreams lead you away from the comfort of family or tribe? And how far away do you really need to go? Those questions seem important now. The answers are not comfortable, but neither are they final. PISCES (February 19 - Nlarch 19): The stronger your opinions, the more they’ll be challenged. Do some homework to back up your arguments. You may even learn something that wil! push you to grow and change. Remember, it’s only resistance to change that makes it difficult. CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Your long-range vision may cause clashes with colleagues who are locked into accomplishing the task at hand. Helpful as your ideas may be, arguing about them won’t help. Bite your lip, go with the flow, and save your inspirations for later. LEO (July 23 - August 22): Eager to get ahead, you may be pushing too hard. Sit back a bit, strategize, and try to cultivate finesse. Getting into everyone’s face about your brilliance is counter-productive. Let your creativity speak for itself. VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Being terribly certain in your ideas can put you at odds with your family or your community. It may well be that you have something important to tell them, but you need to listen in order to be heard. LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): The more you struggle against scandal, the more it grows. A bemused response - "Mercy! Who’s telling such silly stories?" - wilt help facilitate a quick change of subject. Or you may prefer a smug, quiet smile that enhances a wicked mystique. SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): If you’re partnered, arguments are nearly inevitable for you, with money being the likely trigger. If you’re single, your feistiness will make or break the interest of a potential mate. Arguments now can foreshadow a bigger struggle in six weeks. FREE NIV TESTING, NO NEEDLES SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC SPONSORS Testing appointment 41%529-8480. 2902 E. 20th St., PO Box 4711 Joplin, Mo 64803 SATURDAY Service 9:30AM Your Invited to our COITIITIUI~ty Dinner Every Wed. 6pm just $4.00. No one is turned away. 28 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �Arkansas, Bentonviile/Rogers (479) NWA GLBT Ctr .... www.nwaglbtcc.org ......... 888-391-9222 Barnes & Noble Bks - - 261 N. 46th St., Rogers- - - -479-636-2002 Arkansas, Eureka Springs (479) Diversity Pride Events - www.diversitypride.com A Byrd’s Eye View..... 36 N. Main ........... 479-253-0200 Caribe Restaurante .... 309 W VanBuren ....... 479-253-8102 Henri’s ....... 19 !/2 Spring St ............. 479-253-5795 Lumberyard Bar&Grill- - - 105 E VanBuren ....... 479-253-0400 MCC Living Spring - 17 Elk Street- Service 6PM- - -479-253-9337 Swiss Holiday Resort- Hwy 62 at Hwy 23 So.- .... 888-582-8464 Spexton ........ 17B Spring Street--479-981-6060 Tiki Torch ........ 75 S. Main Street- ........ -479-253-2305 Tradewinds Lodge - 141 W. VanBuren800-242-1615 Arkansas, Fayetteville (479) Common Ground Restaurant- - - 412 W. Dixon - - - 479-442-3515 Condom Sense ......... 418 W. Dickson ....... 479-444-6228 Curry’s Video - - - 612 N. College Ave- -479-521-0009 Flames Bar - - - 40 E. Center- ............... 479-251-1922 Passages ...... 930 N. College Ave479-442-5845 Tangerine Club - -21 N. Block Ave. 479-587-9512 Arkansas, Fort Smith (479) Kinkeads ....... 1004 1/2 Garrison Ave ........ 479-783-9988 Klub XLR8 ...... 1022 Dodson Ave- - 479-782-9578 Red Rock City - - - 917 N. "A" St.479-242-2489 Arkansas, Hot Springs (501) Jesters Lounge .... 1010 E. Grand Ave ......... 501-624-5455 Arkansas, Little Rock (501) Back Street .... 1021 Jessie Rd-501-6642744 Diamond State Rodeo Assoc. - www.dsra.org Discovery-~--- 102! Jessie Rd-501-666-6900 Sidetracks--- 415 Main St--North L.R. 501-244-0444 The Factory ...... 412 Louisiana St.- 501-372-3070 Club U.B.U. - ..... 824 W Capitol Ave ......... 501-375-8580 Kansas, Junction City (785) Xcalibur Club ...... 384 Grant Ave. 785-762-2050 Kansas, Pittsburg (620) PSU-QSA.-- 1701 S. Broadway- .............. 620-231-0938 River of Life Church.- - 1709 N. Walnut-Service 11AM Kansas, Wichita (316) Our Fantasy/South40 ..... 3201 S. Hillside ...... 316-682-5494 Priscilla’s..... 6143 W Kellogg Dr.316-942-1244 Club Glacier- ........ 2828 E. 31st South ...... 316-612-9331 Missouri, Ava (417) Catus Canyon Campground ................. 417-683-9199 Missouri, Joplin (417) MCC Spirit of Christ- - -2902 E 20th, - ...... Sat Service-9:30AM Joplin Gay/Lesbian Cntr- PO Box 4383, zip 64803- -417-622-7821 Missouri, Kansas City (816) 40th Street Inn ....w~w.40thstreetinn.com ....... 816-561-7575 Concourse Park B&B - - 300 Benton BIvd ........ 816-231-1196 Hydes KC Gym & Guest Hs -www.hydeskc.com - - 816-561-! 010 Missie B’s .... 805 W. 39th St- ............... 816-561-0625 Missouri, Springfield (417) The Edge ..... 424 Boonville Ave417-831-4700 GLO Comm. Ctr---518 E. Commerical417-869-3978 JR’s Nightclub .... 504 E. Commerical. 417-831-9001 Martha’s Vineyard- - - 219 W Olive -417-864-4572 Ronisuz Place .... 821 College ............... 417-864-0036 Oklahoma, Enid (580) Hastings Books .... 104 Sunset .............. 580-242-6838 Priscilla’s ........ -4810-A West Garriott- ...... 580-233-5511 Oklahoma, Lawton (580) Ingrids Bookstore ..... 1124 NW Cache Rd...... 580-353-1488 Oklahoma, McAlester (9~i8) McPride ........... POBox 1515, - .... McAlester, OK 74502 Oklahoma, Oklahoma City (405) American Crossroads B&B - POBox 270642 ...... 405-495-1111 Blue Dog Liquor- ..... -4015 N. Penn 405-606-7000 Boom Room ....... 2807 NW 36th St405-601-7200 Border’s Books ...... 3209 NW Expressway ..... 405-848-2667 CD Warehouse ...... 4001 N. Penn .......... 405-525-7766 Club Rox....... 3535 NW 39th Expwy........ -405-947-2351 Christie’s Toy Box- ....3126 N. May Ave 405-946-4438 Church of Open Arms ...... 3131 N. Penn ...... 405-525-9555 Copa.2200 NW 39th Exp ........405-525-0730 Eastern Ave Video- - -1105 S Eastern Ave ........ -405-6726459 Finishline ....... 2200 NW 39th Expwy........ 405-525-9200 Gushers Restaurant..... 2200 NW 39Exp ...... 405-525-0730 Habana Inn -2200 NW 39th Exp ....... 405-528-2221 Herland Sisters Resources.... 2312 NW 39th St--405-521-9696 Hollywood Hotel .... 3535 NW 39th Exp ....... -405-947-2351 Hi-Lo Club ....... 1221 NW 50th-405-843-1722 Jungle Reds ....... 2200 NW Expwy -405-524-5733 .2200 NW Expwy........ -405-525-0730 LedoNaughty But Nice .... 3121 SW 29th St ....... -405-681-5044 Partners. 2805 NW 36th St -405-942-2199 -3535 NW 39th Expw ........405-947-2351 Pec’sPriscilla’s........ 615 E. Memorial-405-755-8600 Red Rock North- - - 2240 NW39th St.......... -405-525-5165 Rudy’s Place ...... 3535 NW39th Expw........ -405-947-2351 Phoenix Rising .... 2120 NW 39th St-405-601-3711 The Park 2125 NW 39th St -405-528-4690 The Patio 3201N. MayAve ......... 405-917-1663 Topanga Grill & Bar- --3535 NW39th -405-917-1663 Tramps-2201NW39th. -405-521-9888 Ziggy’s-4005 N. Penn-405-521-9999 Oklahoma, Tulsa (918) Bamboo Lounge .... 7204 E. Pine 918-836-8700 Border’s Book Store- - - 2740 E, 21st918-712-9955 Border’s Book Store--- 8015 S. Yale 918-494-2665 Circle Cinema ...... !0 S. Lewis--918-592-3456 Club 209 ....... 209 N. Boulder 918-584-9944 Club Majestic ....... 124 N. Boston 918-584-9494 Club Maverick ..... 822 S. Sheridan 918-835-3301 Cosmo Deli & Bar- - 6746 S. Memorial -918-459-0497 Dreamland Bks .... 8807 E. Admiral PI .918-834-1051 Equality Center ..... 621 E. 4th Street ........ -918-743-4297 Hideaway Lounge ..... 11730 E. 11th 918-437-0449 HOPE Clinic....... 3540 E. 31st ---918-749-8378 Midtown 319 E. 3rd918-584-3112 Openarms Youth Projt - - - 2015 S. Lakewood ..... 918-838-7104 Our House, Too .... 203 N Nogales Ave. -918-585-9552 Priscilla’s -7925 E. 41st..... 918-627-4884 Priscilla’s ........ 5634 W. Skelly ........... 918-446-6336 Priscilla’s ........ 11344 E. 11th ............. 918-438-4224 Priscilla’s 2333 E. 71st-918-499-1661 Renegades ........ 1649 S. Main -- 918-585-3405 Rob’s Records- - -2909 S. Sheridan Rd ......... 918-627-1505 Sappho’s ...... ~ - 6373-C E 31st St918-836-0299 Tulsa CARES .... 3507 E. Admiral PI - - 918-834-4194 Tulsa Central Library ...... 400 Civic Center- - - - 918-596-7977 Tulsa Eagle ..... 1338 E. 3rd ................ 918-592-1188 TNT’s ......... 2114 S. Memorial- - 918-660-0856 Yellow-Brick-Rd ....... 2630 E. 15th 918-293-0304 �AT A POWNTOWN CHUB, :20 MINUTES hATeR_.- bitter girl email: bittergid@qsyndicate.com 30 the STAR www.joanhilty.net www.ozarksstar.com �NW Arkansas GLBT CommuniW Center 1st furnished or "Lin-ldng Together as One" For more information: 888-391-9222 WWW.NWAGLBTCC.ORG N.W. Oklahoma City gay male residence. Attached ½ bath access to full bath. Laundry facilities available, cable TV. $275 per month all bills paid with 12 month lease. Employed person only, references required Call (405) 521 2131 www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 31 �� Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data magazine Text Any textual data included in the document The 2 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com :Survey in history, an(i help emonstrats the growing Power in Our Pri(leo Everyone who completes the survey by May 15, 2007 will be entered into a drawing to win one of FOUR free airline tickets from/to any of the participating airline’s destinations in the 48 continental U.S. States, plus Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. Restrictions apply. Please take the survey today, and tell your friends! Tremendous strides toward full equality have been achieved by our communities over the past decade. There’s Power in Our Pride. Power to make a difference: Gay and lesbian survey studies have opened doors (and minds) in leading corporations and organizations, which in turn have recognized the value of their LGBT employees through the establishment of equal hiring policies and domestic partner benefits. This has been a catalyst, leading to sweeping changes in political and social inclusivity. Demographic reports also influence marketing investment. Virtually absent until recently, we now see a growing variety of products and services represented in gay media, celebrating our diversity. Ads keep LGBT publications and websites in business, serving their communities with independent news and information. Beyond simply advertising, though, these companies support us in many ways, including sponsoring community events and funding community-based charities in order to earn our loyalty. Taking an annual pulse on market trends through surveys helps demonstrate the LGBT community’s growing power, and influences positive change. We respect your privacy. All personal survey data is held confidentially by Community Marketing, Inc., an independent marketI research and communications firm based in San Francisco (founded 1992, and proudly 100% gay-owned and -operated) and will not be so d to third parties or used for marketing purposes. Thank you! www.CommunityiVlarketinglnc.com ® 2007 Community Marketing, Inc., 594 Castro St. #834, San Francisco CA 94114 USA www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 3 ~.DV~CACY Activists Launch Statewide LGBT Advocacy Efforts. CAF Host OHahoma Summit 2007 OkJahoma County Commissioner Brent Rinehart from District 2, a practicing public homophobe, was formally arraigned earlier this month. 4© PAST OUT The murder of gay sailor Allen Schindler in October 1992 contributed to a national debate about GLBT people in the military that remains unresolved to this day. Gay Travelers "Indianapolis, Indiana Out of Town " Denver, Colorado" ~ D~V~N$~ITY Wl~l~l~ND Good, clean, Christian fun...is not the way to describe the "Gayco" comedy show that took the stage of Eureka Springs’ Auditorium during the spring Diversity xXi’eekend. GLBT Summit..............5 Let’s Rodeo ...............6 James Nimo .............. 11 OUT in Arkansas........... 12 Past Out.................. 14 The Wine Rack............. 16 Ciao Travel ................ 17 Lesbian Notions............ 22 Star Scene................ 24 After Dark ................ 27 Horoscopes............... 28 Distributors............... 29 Cartoons..................30 Classifieds................ 31 Let’s Rodeo Oklahoma - page 6 Mr, C~ntinental 2006 Simba R. Hal! at Club Majestic Tulsa - page 15 DISTRIBUTION: Fine Dining at Hotel Bel Air - page 17 )KLAHOMA CITY * TULSA * LAWTON * MCALESTER * ENID * LITTLE ROCK * NORTH LITTLE RODK * FAYETTEVILLE * FT SMITH * EUREKA SPRINGS * HOT SPRINGS * BENTONVILLE * ROGERS * KANSAS CITY * SPRINGFIELD * JOPLIN * BRANSON AREA * WICHITA* PITTSBURG * JUNCTION CITY 4 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com ¢ ARRON ALLIANCE FOUNDAo T ON (CAF) HO$1" OKLAHOMA LGBT LEADERSHIP 2007 By Jeanne Flanigan Photo:Josh Hammers, Paul 7horn?son male co-chair Oklahoma Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, Mike McLain u~ith Hardnezvs Online. Community Partners were OKC Community Foundation, Respect Diversity Foundation, Herland Sister Resources, Winds House, P-FLAG OKC and Norman, North Care Mental Health Center, Cathedral of Hope, Progressive Alliance, DBA Metro, Central Oklahoma Prime Timers, Red Rock Behavioral Health Services, Hard News Online, OKC Pride, Oklahoma Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus, Oklahomans for Equality, OSU Sexual Orientation Diversity Association (SODA), OCU Gay and Lesbian Law Student Association, Log Cabin Republicans of Oklahoma, Central Oklahoma Stonewall Democrats, OKC Chrysalis Education Affirmation Network, ACLU of Oklahoma, AIDS Walk OKC, Heartstrong, the Trevor Project, Central Oklahoma Human Rights Alliance, and OU GLBT & Friends. For more information contact the Cimarron Alliance Foundation, website www.cimarronalliance.org, e mail RCO@lawokc.com or telephone (405) 495 9300. OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__Cimarron Alliance Foundation (CAF) hosted the Oklahoma LGBT Leadership Summit at the beautiful Ron Norick Downtown Library Saturday, April 14 with over 140 attending representing 33 organizations. The conference featured local presenters in the areas of politics, education, and the issues of the LGBT community, women, seniors, Pride events, religion, health and organizational processes and development in 18 breakout sessions. CAF was able to tackle this huge project with the help of 27 Community Partners and a National Sponsor, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC). Breakfast and lunch were served, allowing participants an opportunity to meet and greet others and net-work with other organizations. Several people from Tulsa attended, sharing with OKC their success with the recent opening of their Dennis R. Nell Equality Center and other projects. There were attendees from other places as well, as far axvay as Tennessee and Wyoming. Official greetings were extended from Oklahoma County Commissioner Jim Roth, OKC City Council members Sam Bowman and Ann Simank, State Senators Connie Johnson & Andrew Rice, and Oklahoma State Representative Al McAffrey. CAF President Richard Ogden and DBA (Diversity Business Association) President Monty Milburn facilitated the opening and closing sessions, geared to open discussion and responses to the education presented. A survey was gathered to assess the conference and to guide planning to make the next one even more responsive to community needs and desires. Activists Launch Statewide LG Advocacy By Laura Belmonte TULSA, OK__On March 24-25th, activists from across Oklahoma gathered at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center to formulate plans for statewide LGBT advocacy efforts. Sponsored by Oklahomans for Equality, the Creation Weekend meetings were facilitated by Toni Broaddus, Executive Director of the Equality Federation, Mickey Maclntyre of Real Change Partners, and Jeremy Pittman, Deputy National Field Director for the Human Rights Campaign. The Gill Foundation provided financial support. Representatives from several organizations including the Cimarron Alliance, H.O.P.E. Testing Clinic, OSU’s SODA (Sexual Orientation Diversity Association), Tulsa C.A.R.E.S., and RAIN attended. Throughout the meetings activists discussed their hopes and expectations of statewide LGBT organizing. They identified longrange political goals including non-discrimination in housing and employment, relationship recognition, safe schools, hospital visitation rights for same-sex partners, and hate crimes laws that include sexual orientation and gender expression. They also discussed possible strategies for statewide coalition-building, lobbying, voter registration and education, and electing LGBT and LGBT-friendly public officials throughout Oklahoma. A steering committee to direct these efforts is currently being formed. Interested organizations and activists are urged to participate and can contact Laura Belmonte, president of Oklahomans for Equality, at center@okeq.org for more information. For complete video coverage of Creation Weekend, see http://okgnn.net/ www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 5 DBAT Hosts First Business After Hours by Suzan Hartman TULSA, OK__Business is built on relationships and what better time to start developing those relationships than during Tulsa Pride 2007! The Diversity Business Association ofTulsa, a program of Oklahomans for Equality, will host their first Business After Hours event on Thursday, June 7 from 7:00 to 9:00pm at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. Business After Hours offers excellent networking opportunities for area glbt business owners and professionals. All members of the business community are invited to attend and refreshments will be provided. There is no cost so join us at this wonderful social gettogether and make new contacts or to get reacquainted xvith former contacts. DBAT provides a forum to the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender business and professional community and its allies for the purpose of networking, professional development, creating increased visibility and strengthening relationships among business and professional community members. We’re the heart of LGBT networking and business growth. We support. We lead. We promote professional development, business diversity and personal enrichment - so get involved today! For more information contact Susan Hartman at slhartman@cox.net or 918- 274-1699. GET READY [:OR THE 22nd ANNUAL GREAT PLAINS RODEO By Greg Steele OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__One of the longest running and largest of Gay Rodeo Organizations in the International Gay Rodeo Association (IGRA) system, Oklahoma’s Great Plains Rodeo will kick offa fun filled weekend May 25 through May 27th 2007. The event will be held in Oklahoma City at State Fair Park, 333 Gordon Cooper Blvd. Registration will be Friday 6pm to 9pm at State Fair Park Barn 3. Rodeo performance’s will begin Saturday morning 8am with the Grand Entry around noon. The event will wind down with the awards ceremony 8pm in Barn 3. Over $10,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded. The 2007 Rodeo has added money for Bull Riding, Bronc Riding, Steer Riding, Calf Roping on Foot, Breakaway Roping, Team Roping, Barrels, Poles and Flags will only be awarded to the top three place winners for combined scores Saturday and Sunday. Awards will also include Saddles for Top Men and Women Roping and Speed Events. The host hotel is Hollywood H~tel and Suites, 3535 NW 39th OKC, OK 73112 405-947-2351. Events Schedule .........Continued page-23 6 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 7 8 the STAR ww~.ozarksstar.com Tulsa Pride United for Equality June 2 - Pride Festival Saturday June 9th at Veteran’s Park - 18th & Main in Downtown Tulsa 11:00 AM -5:00 PM Over 15,000 expected to attend! Parade begins 10:00 AM - 15th & Utica to LGBT Pride Festival- Veterans Park presented by oklahomans for equality (OkEq) 621 E 4th Street* Tulsa, OK lent Outdoor Living Mitchell Savage Smith Hid-(:entury Nodern Gem Home of Rex Ball and Stephen Edwards Iplewood Secret ~3arden Home o1: Harcy Smitl~ Welcl~ wwN.ozarksstar.com the STAR 9 LoPA~GE by Hr. Continental 2006 S~MBA HALL & Special gues~: SANTANA & TRIXIE DELUXXE CAYNE wihh Zsane’ Braxton, Ebony Hall, Krystal DeKanter, Bobby Paige !21 to dria~k www.OKContinental.com No Video Recording "At Century 21 Gold Castle our BEST prope~ies are our PEOPLU’ 4301 NW fi3rd, Suite 100 Oklahoma City, OK 73116 10 the STAR 405.840.2t06 www. c21 goldcastle.com w~v,ozarksstar.com Commissioner Brent Rinehart’s a Piece of.olToast, (his future, that is) By James Nimmo OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__Oklahoma County Commissioner Brent Rinehart from District 2, a practicing public homophobe, was formally arraigned earlier this month for serious Oklahoma campaign law violations (ten by my count) ranging from perjury and filing false campaign reports to accepting illegal contributions from third parties and conspiracy against the state during his campaign in 2004. According to Attorney-General Drew Edmondsoffs office Rinehart, and his campaign manager Tim Pope (Pope, a former state legislator who carried a gun in his boot on to the floor of the House because he said gay, were after him, he was also found guilty of illegal campaign telemarketing in March for calls directed against Commissioner Jim Roth) are charged in Oklahoma Count), District Court with one count of conspiracy against the state, two counts of money laundering and three counts of knowingly accepting a contribution to a political candidate through an intermediary or conduit with unlawful intent. Additionally, Rinehart faces four counts of perjury. Run-of-the-mill political shenanigans you might yawn, but stay with me. If you’re LGBT or an ally, you know that Mr.. Rinehart, only just past the half-way mark in his first term, is finally getting his comeuppance as a public figure. From day one of his term he has ragged on Commissioner Jim Roth, District 1, for advancing what Rinehart thinks is the much talked about but seldom seen, "gay agenda". Why does Rinehart think he’s had a look at the "gay agenda"? I haven’t seen it and I’ve paid lots of dues in time and money. Does Rinehart know somebody I don’t? Does he have a secret handshake? He seems to walk and talk in the normal way. The only gay agenda I’ve seen is my own: to be treated under law in the same way as any other tax-paying citizen, irrespective ofmy sexual orientation, and according to my own observance of existing law. I’m paying the same fare as a straight man; I expect the same first-class ticket. In January 2005 Rinehart was one of 3 on the Oklahoma County, Budget Board (al! 8 county elected officials) who voted to rescind Oklahoma County’s policy of non discrimination for County employees that incudes sexual orientation. (The repeal efforts failed) There have been numerous articles in the Oklahoma City media about Rinehart being unable to work effectively with the other OK Count), officeholders. All the County elected officials issued a group letter the same day, as Rinehart’s arraignment in which they promised to maintain character and integrity in the face of these serious allegations of misconduct by Rinehart. In his defense, Mr.. Rinehart has spoken of a personal vendetta being directed against him by the Attorney-General and the "good ’ole boy" system he claims is responsible for his predicament. At a press conference Rinehart (Phonto right) said, "I will continue to serve the public despite the good old boy demands that I abandon public office. I look forward to my day in court where the facts ~vill reveal that I am innocent of the politically motivated charges made by Drew Edmondson." Does the "good ’ole boy" system include the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation which did the ground work for the indictments? Does it also include the OK County District Attorney David Prater who, on April 11, 2007, made the legal determination that there is no current law which can remove Rinehart from office under only allegations of wrongdoing Prater concluded that conviction must first be found in court concluded DA Prater. It’s so easy to tease Rinehart as he leaves himself so wide open, and his delusions are indeed grand. In an interview with TV-4 he said (and I paraphrase) "the good ’ole boys want to get me, want to get me, right now, want to get me, take me down, because they know one day I’ll be governor." These words are nearly verbatim, repetitions included. His mantra of referring to the "good ’ole boys" so often makes me think no one played with him as a child. He still feels like an outsider. He prides himself on his role as a maverick yet he has nothing constructive to show for it. He never learned to socialize and he’s carrying this grudge even now as he digs his hole of seclusion ever deeper. Who would have thought he wanted to be governor? Would such a mark of victory expunge the feelings of exclusion from his psyche? Does he need something bigger than a county commissioner’s office to assuage his private demons? Personally, I can hardly wait for Rinehart’s days in judicial court as well as the court of public opinion. Even should he be found not guilt), I doubt if the voters of District 2 will want to continue Rinehart’s employment for another term as commissioner. Challengers from all political viewpoints now have a good lead time to establishing themselves with the voters of District 2. \Vho wants stale toast to represent them at the County office? www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 11 Eureka Diversity Rains Supreme by Joey De EUREKa, SPRINGS, AR~IfDisney Land is the happiest place on earth, Eureka Springs, Arkansas, must be a close second. Nesded in the Ozarks, an hour away from Branson, MO, Eureka has made its name as a tourist destination with its eclectic array of nick-nack shops, historical architecture and southern hospitality. The community’s dozen-plus annual festivals help to attract a diverse crowd of visitors from across the country, including the ’iGaylien beings" who landed there from Apr. 13 - 15. Going a step further than hand holding, organizers arranged a public display of affection in the town’s Basin Park, during which a young lesbian proposed to her partner. As a living memorial to a lost friend of one Diversity Pride Committee member, the weekend featured a "Recovery in Pride" forum hosted by Mr. Marty Perry, the CEO of The Pride Institute. Followed by a self-help style meeting, the forum allowed participants to discuss how their sexuality may have influenced substance abuse or support healthy ways for them to overcome it. evening when the younger crowd to finally show it’s face. Although inhibited by a lack of sunshine, the 2007 Eureka Springs Diversity Pride Celebration followed through with a promise made to all of its visitors. All beings were welcome. Coinciding on the same weekend with Eureka’s annual UFO convention (yes, you read right), the Spring Diversity celebra- For tion welcomed beings of all.types to inhabit visithe streets of the quiet town. Although tots attendance was significantly reduced due who to weather through out the region, visitors did not came from as far away as Ohio to explore the streets of Eureka Springs. As laid back as the town itself, Diversity Pride offered a mix of events designed to appeal to couples who are past the up-allnight party phase of their life and to those who still don’t go down until the sun comes up (take it as you will). Many of the events showcased the town itself, spotlighting the forty five gay owned restaurants, dubs and businesses. Locals happily hosted tours of the area, diversity meals and spiritual events for the mostly 28-35 crowd who braved the rain, snow and ice. Advertised as a "Diversity Pride" festival, the weekend was more about embracing diversity than it was celebrating pride. With no major central event such as an all day picnic or parade, visitors were more integrated through out the community then at most Prides, where celebrants flock to one location. Although there was a visible show of pride in rainbow feathered boas and flags, the refreshing attraction of the weekend was its lack of spectacle. "It’s nice to be able to come to a town where you feel like you’re the ’norm’" expressed one gaylian visiting from St. Louis. "It’s refreshing to see people walking around holding their partner’s hand on the street." 12 the STAR participate in organized events, the shops of Eureka opened their doors, with many offering a "family discount." leries, jewelers and a puppet shop welcomed were browsing, buying and in some cases trying to escape the rain. Highlighting the weekend for visitors of all ages ~vas the return appearance of Chicago’s "Gayco" show, who offered two performances in the town’s historic "Auditorium." The group, who specializes in improvisational comedy offered a master’s workshop for visitors and even posed for pictures with gaylians after their show. For those who grew tired of shopping (or the endless up-hill walking) the bars of Eureka provided an impressive array of entertainment choices for a town its size. Whether visiting Henri’s, Jack’s Place or Chelsea’s for live music, Karaokeing with "Tiny" at Uncle Tuckers; or dancing the night away at The Tiki Torch, the liquor flowed and the good times rolled into the De Good, clean, ..is not way to describe "Gayco" comedy the of Eureka Auditoduring the i Diversity Following the success of the ’ appearance last year, Organizers of diversity weekend brought the troupe back to tackle pressing issues in the gay world such as marriage, don’t ask don’t tell, adoption and coming out. With a well articulated mix of low and high brow humor, the seven Gayco players entertained audiences with their unique blend of improvisational and sketch comedy. Originating as a gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender outreach project of the legendary Second City Comedy Club in Chicago, Gayco has been entertaining communities across the nation for almost eleven years. "Second City saw us as a one maybe two show outreach to the GLBT community," says Andy Eninger, one of the group’s founders. According to the performer, although there is no formal relationship between the two groups, they maintain a close working friendship. "We outgrew them, and they xvanted us to spin off and do our own thing, but they still watch us closely." Continued page-26 www.ozarksstar.com www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 13 Who was Allen Schindler? The murder of gay sailor Allen Schindler in October 1992 contributed to a national debate about GLBT people in the military that remains unresolved to this day. Schindler was born in December 1969 and grew up in Chicago Heights, Ill. A mediocre student, he joined the Navy right out of high school to obtain G.I. Bill money to attend veterinary school. He was first stationed in San Diego, where he frequented gay clubs and found a boyfriend. In 1991, he fulfilled his dream of serving aboard the aircraft carrier USS Midway, a ship with a relatively tolerant atmosphere. But after the Midway was decommissioned a year later, he was reassigned to the USS Belleau Wood, which had a reputation for a rough and rowdy crew. Schindler and other sailors suspected of being gay xvere routinely called "faggots" and shoved as they walked the ship’s halls. One night in September 1992, as the ship was en route from San Diego to Sasebo, Japan, Schindler, a radioman, broadcast an unauthorized message, "2-Q-T-2-B-S-T-R- 8" ("too cute to be straight"), which led to a month-long disciplinary confinement. Soon thereafter, he admitted to commanding officers that he was gay: Though aware that the disclosure would likely lead to his discharge, Schindler nevertheless felt a sense of relief: "Ifyou can’t be yourself, then who are you?" he wrote in his diary. 14 the STAR As word spread that Schindler was gay and discharge proceedings were underway, the abuse increased. "It scares me a little," he wrote. "You never know who would want to injure me or cease my existence." By late October, the Belleau Wood had reached Sasebo and Schindler’s confinement had ended. He began frequenting local bars, where he met a group of gay American entertainers, including dancer Eric Underwood, whom he told about the harassment. On the night of Oct. 27, after spending the evening drinking, two of Schindler’s shipmates, Terry Helvey and Charles Vins, followed him into a public bathroom in a park near the base. Helvey began to beat and kick Schindler, with Vins also joining in; Helvey finished off the attack by stomping on Schindler’s throat. As the assailants fled, wimesses arriving on the scene summoned the Shore Patrol, and medics tried to revive Schindler without success. The pathologist who conducted the autopsy reported that Schindler’s injuries were "similar to a highspeed auto accident or a low-speed aircraft accident." His face was beaten so badly that his mother could only identify him by tattoos on his arms. Helvey and Vins were identified by wimesses and arrested the next morning. As Helvey was being led awa); he told a shipmate, "The bastard deserved it." Vins received a quick court-martial and was sentenced to just four months in exchange for testimony against Helvey. The incident received little press coverage until Underwood and his associates wrote a letter to several publications exposing the antigay harassment Schindler had faced. The military newspaper pacific Stars and Stripes printed the lettel; and a reporter from the paper investigated the story, but the Navy tried to cover up the nature of the killing, going so far as to leak a rumor that Schindler and Helvey were gay lovers who had had a falling out. Gay activists raised a furor over the murder, at a time when the issue of gays in the military was high on the national agenda due to Bill Clinton’s campaign promise to lift the ban on GLBT service members. Michael Petrelis of Queer Nation - who vowed to make Schindler the "gay Rodney King" - organized a press conference at the Pentagon in December. Friends and supporters held a memorial in San Diego, while the Human Rights Campaign flew Schindler’s mother, Dorothy Hajdys, to Washington to speak at a candlelight vigil. Hajdys, a fundamentalist Christian who initially had trouble accepting that her son was gay; became an unlikely activist for GLBT civil rights. "If you would have told me I would have been at the March on Washington standing before a million people and being seen all over the world, I would have told you you were nuts," she later told an interviewer. Schindler’s killing remained front-page news throughout the spring of 1993. In May, Helvey was court-martialed in Japan, with his defense focusing on his abusive childhood and use of steroids. He admitted the crime, first claiming that Schindler had made a sexual advance in the bathroom and later saying that he found homosexuals "disgusting, sick, and scary." The incident never would have happened, he added, if gays weren’t allowed to join the military. Helvey pleaded guilty to murder with intent to commit great bodily harm, thereby avoiding the death penalty for premeditated murder. In 2002, Hajdys and gay activists successfully opposed his parole, and he continues to serve a life sentence at Fort Leavenworth, Kan. Schindler put an individual face on the debate about gays in the military, with both sides pointing to his murder to justify their positions. In November 1993, President Clinton signed the "Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell" policy into law, after Congress and the Pentagon opposed lifting the ban. According to the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network more than 10,000 men and women have been discharged from the armed forces since the policy went into effect. www.ozarksstar.com Simba Ro Ha l To Host Miss Oklahoma Cor dnenta At Club Majestic Tulsa. TULSA, OK__Simba R. Hall is a creation and alter ego of LeSean D. Lewis. Simba was introduced to the field of pageantry in 2001 at Mr. and Miss Renaissance in Atlanta, GA. A good friend had heard him sing in the professional arena and needed some vocals to back his poetry. When Simba hit the stage, he was mesmerized. From there, he went to compete for Mr. Liberty, Mr. Renaissance, Mr. Duval, and Mr. Continental. He captured the title of Mr. Renaissance in 2004. This was followed by his win of Mr. Duval 2005 hosted in Jacksonville, FL. Simba R. Hall has always wanted to give back to his gay community. With this in mind, he used Renaissance as a platform to form the King’s Alliance. The King’s Alliance is a compilation of all the male representatives holding National titles. ~Pney perform a National show every year called M.E.N.S. (Male Entertainers of National Systems) Night. They donate all proceeds to a non-profit organization. Over the past three years they have raised over $4000. ~xis was recognized by the elite system that he now represents, Mr. Continental. It took Simba three times to capture this title. Each time he stood in the top five next to the winners, Ray Matthews and Tony Desario. \~qxen Simba won, he started using his popularity throughout the community, adding more benefit shows and fundraisers. He started a couple’s night which 7will feature duets from the kings and queens representing National titles. This is to be held at the Baton in June. He also had a Continental Christmas in Atlanta that raised over $3500 for Child Kind, an organization that cares for terminally ill children. Simba wants to be remembered for bringing the community to the forefront and showing the world that being gay is just a preference. \re are just as human as the next individual. Simba is also working on an album that ~vill be available in the fall. At the current time he is touring the US as Mr. Continental where he receives raves reviews and standing ovations. Simba Hall will Host the Miss Oklahoma Continental on Friday May 25th at Club Majestic in Tulsa at 8pm. This will be the fourth Miss Competition in Oklahoma produced by Monica Freeman. THE AUSTK LIAN BEE GEES SHOW at Tulsa’s Historic Brady Theater TULSA, OK___Having received nothing less than fantastic reviews, "The Australian BEE GEES Show" is coming to Tulsa’s Historic Brady Theater on Friday May 4th. Ttxe house lights fade slowly and there is a cheer of excitement, then a brief moment of anticipation. It begins with a single bass note, then a chime that dances around the room, a whisper of strings, a stab of brass and percussion, a flash of light and the image flickers to life. "The Australian BEE GEES Show" is a multi-media concert event with the state-of-the-art sound, superb lighting and giant screens, featuring video clips, live camera images and stunning graphics. "The Australian BEE GEES Show" has captured the look, the sound and the personality that defines one of the most successful and adored acts in musical history. The show is presented from a contemporary perspective and has evolved to become the definitive live celebration of four decades of wonderful music written by the Brothers Gibb. Ten years in the making, a lot have been said about "The Australian BEE GEES Show", including some kind words from one of the Brothers Gibb’s niece, Deborah McLane, "When I first saw the show I had high expectations of what the performance would be like, those boys did more than exceed my expectations. I was completely moved by their harmonies and the way they perfected the whole Bee Gees image. This is the most outstanding Bee Gees tribute show I have experienced." For one night only, experience the magic, "The Australian ~BEE GEES Show." In concert at Tulsa’s Historic Brady Theater Friday May 4th, 2007. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. and show starts at 8:00 p.m. Tickets cost $27.50 and $32.50 and went on sale beginning at 10 a.m. on Monday March 26th at www.bradytheater.com, w~vw. etix.com, Tulsa’s Historic Brady Theater at 105 West Brady, or by calling the Brady Theater Ticket Office at (918) 582-7239. w~v.ozarksstar.com the STAR 15 Tuna Soup with Orange and Avocado Fresh tuna meat is easy to overcook and can sometimes be disappointingly dry and chewy, but in this juicy mixture it stays succulent and delicious. Ingredients: 2 - 3 tbls. Olive Oil 2 Onions (peeled, halved, and very thinly sliced) 2 Garlic Cloves (peeled and finely chopped) 1 tspn. Ground Cumin Pinch of Cinnamon 2 tspn. Chopped Fresh Parsley Finely Grated Zest and Juice of 1 Lime 2/3 cup Orange Juice 1 1/4 Fresh Tuna Steaks (cut into 3/4 inch cubes) 1 3/4 qts. Fish Stock Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper 6 Large Tomatoes (cut into short pieces) 2 firm but Ripe Avocados (peeled, pitted) 40 oz. Sugar Snap Peas or Green Beans (cut into neat cubes) Sprigs of Fresh Flat-Leafed Parsley (for garnish) Procedure: 1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan. Add the onions and gently fry until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and gently fry for 2 minutes. 2. Add the cumin, cinnamon, parsley, lime zest and Juice, orange juice, tuna, stock, and a little salt and pepper. Bring to the boil, reduce the heat, cover the pan, and simmer for 15 minutes. 3. Meanwhile, soak the tomatoes in boiling ~vater for several minutes until the skin xvill peel easily away. Cut away the hard cores and chop the flesh. Add to the pan ~vith the sugar snap peas or beans. Simmer for 4-5 minutes. 4. Just before serving the soup, stir the avocado cubes into the pan. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley. Serves: 6 More on the Hotel Bel Air, page 1.19. "TRAVELING IN OUR FABULOL by Donald Pile & Ray Williams Featuring Cuisine From Coast HOTEL BEL-AIR 70! Stone Cmnyon Road Los Fmgeles; "~e dining room at the Hotel BeI-Mr is, ~vithout doubt, the most romcamc restaurants on, the planet, and one beautiful ! We dine As it is terribly expensive, we always order consists of a lovely Salad, soup of the day" mad finger sandwiches. And this costs $3~3.00! bur W~rth every pelmy o~it. nitelv the most ~¢~rwiOzarksstar:com Phe drag-themed Petticoat Bruncheon at Bump & Grind is one ofDenver’s best excuses to get out ofbed on weekwnd mo,~vings. (Photo by Andrew Collins) By Andrew Collins Denver has long been one of the country’s great centers of lesbian and gay culture. The GLBT community here is highly visible - socially, professionally, and politically - and gay-friendly restaurants, bars, hotels, and other businesses are easy to find in a number of prominent neighborhoods. With several new or expanded high-profile museums, easy access to skiing and hiking, a sunny climate, and relative affordability compared with other big urban centers, the Mile High City makes for a highly appealing vacation destination, whether for a couple of days or a full week .of exploration. The city’s bustling, modern downtown skyline is dominated by soaring skyscrapers. Here you can wander along 16th Street, a popular pedestrian mall filled with mostly upscale chain shops. Or explore artsy Larimar Square, a restored Victorian block of hip boutiques and cafes - be sure to check out the Market at Larimer Square, a coffeehouse- bakery-deli where a cool crowd enjoys mocha lattes, hearty breakfast burritos, and hefty pastrami sandwiches. Larimar Square marks the edge of dapper LoDo, which began as the city’s shipping 20 the STAR and retail center in the late 19th century. As recently as the 1980s, however, the neighborhood had been reduced to slums and abandoned brick warehouses. LoDo’s comeback began v,;hen artists started converting these classic redbrick buildings into galleries and studios. A flood of restaurants, coffeehouses, and shops followed, as did stately Coors Field, home to baseball’s Colorado Rockies. You can easily spend a few hours exploring this attractive district, perhaps dropping by the Tattered Cover, one of the country’s most beloved independent bookstores, which has an outstanding GLBT section. Another retail must is Rockmount Ranch Wear, a circa-1940s outlet for authentic Western shirts, belts, hats, and bolo ties - this is the very shop that provided those down-home sexy shirts worn by Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal in Brokeback Mountain. South of downtown you’ll find Capitol Hill, which is anchored on one end by the giltdomed State Capitol building. It overlooks a grassy mall surrounded by the Colorado History Museum and the spectacular Denver Art Museum, which underwent a dramatic expansion and redesign in 2005. The Capitol Hill neighborhood, which extends east from the Capitol building, is where many of the city’s GLBT residents live. On sunny days, check out lovely Cheesman Park and the nearby the Denver Botanic Garden. If you’re keen on shopping, head a few miles southeast of downtown to the Cherry Creek area, where you’ll find numerous opportunities for browsing and bargain-hunting at upscale Cherry Creek Shopping Center and Cherry Creek North. Tnese two premier shopping destinations contain a mix of top chain and independent stores. In the evening, try out one of the neighborhood’s fine restaurants, such as trendy Ocean, a haute seafood eatery, or North, which serves exceptional modern Italian fare. Dining is one area where Denver has truly come into its own in recent years. If you’re a serious foodie, sample one of the restaurants run by Denver’s acclaimed expert on innovative Mexican cuisine, Richard Sandoval. Best bets include Tamayo, near lively Larimer Square, and trendy Zengo, a boldly decorated space just north of LoDo, where Sandoval fuses the best ofAsian and Latin cuisine, serving everything from sushi to ceviche. A good bet for dining in LoDo is Vesta, which operates on a quirky premise: you choose three sauces (perhaps pistachio-mint or grilled onion jam) for dipping with whatever entree you choose, from grilled venison to harissa-roasted half chicken. You’ll find simpler fare at Dixon’s Downtown Grill, a nice choice for fish-and-chips and bluecheese burgers, and the festive Wynkoop Brewing Company, which serves the best green chile stew in town, plus a wide range of handcrafted beers. Near Larimer Square, chic Rioja serves creative, world-beat cuisine, such as Dungeness crab-and-shiso spring rolls, and grilled maple-cured pork chops with Calvados sauce. Favorite restaurants on Capitol Hill include I1 Vicino, which turns out creative pizzas and salads along with microbrewed ales, and Sparrow, a convivial neighborhood spot serving such inventive regional American fare as pumpkin-chicken served with pancetta risotto, sage, and cider. The local java chain Diedrich’s Coffee has a particularly gay-popular branch in Capitol Hill, too. www.ozarksstar.com The city has some great places for breakfast fare, including the gay lave Racine’s, which is open late and serves three meals daily. For amazingly tasty pancakes, head to Snooze, an offbeat storefront space near Coors Field where you might start the morning offwith pineapple-upside~down pancakes or vanilla-almond oatmeal brulee. On weekend mornings, don’t miss the legendary drag brunch, called Petticoat Bruncheon, held at Bump & Grind, a colorful bakery and care. One of city’s great strengths is its cultural scene, with maW of the top events held at the esteemed, high-tech Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA), the second-largest such space in the nation (trailing only New York City’s Lincoln Center). tt comprises several performance venues and hosts everything from nationally touring musicals to acclaimed opera. Before a performance, plan to have dinner at DCPA’s top restaurant, Kevin Taylor’s. In this elegant basement space, sample such creative fare as Black Angus carpaccio with white-truffle oil, or charbroiled Colorado lamb chops with braised lentils and black olive jus. Denver has a friendly, eclectic gay nightlife, with a pleasing mix of hip cocktail lounges, pulsing dance clubs, and friendly neighborhood bars. One of the most popular hangouts is J.R.’s, an upscale, bi-level video bar in Capitol Hill that hosts such entertaining events as gong show karaoke and Broadway musical sing-alongs. Nearby Charlie’s is a famously fun country-western club with line-dancing and two-stepping, plus a restaurant serving decent American fare. The Denver Detour is a mostly lesbian-oriented hangout that’s popular early in the evening for happy hour cocktails - it’s right by the State Capitol. Other good women’s options include tHERe Denver, a lesbian-owned coffeehouse and lounge, and Ms. C’s, a long-running lesbian dance club a 20-minute drive east of downtown. Just south of Capitol Hill, the South Broadway area has several notable locals joints, including B.J.’s Carousel, which has its own volleyball court and a casual restaurant. You’ll find a somewhat cruisy bunch at the Compound, a low-attitude dance club that’s popular with everyone from collegiate hipsters to middle-aged bears. The Triangle, for the serious leather crowd, has a big after-hours following and a notoriously frisky basement. And Boyztown is one of the better places in town to watch strippers strut their stuff. Weekends are the best time to check out Denver’s most happening gay nightclub, the always-packed Tracks Denver, a massive warehouse disco with two pulsing dance floors, one spinning the latest club music, the other featuring classic tunes from the ’70s and ’80s. Denver has a number of memorable gay-friendly hotels. The swanky, pet-friendly Hotel Monaco is a top choice for its hip, Parisian-inspired aesthetic and remarkably friendly and helpful service. Vibrant, stylish decor and quirk), in-room touches, such as animal-print robes and pet goldfish, make this downtown boutique property a fan favorite. The on-site restaurant, Panzano, serves firstrate contemporary Italian fare. A new kid on the block that’s earned praise for its stylish look as well as its location across from the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, The Curtis opened early in 2007 and looks like just another high-rise from the exterior. But inside you’ll discover a www.ozarksstar.com whimsical, retro-fabulous hotel that looks like something out of an Austin Powers movie. Each floor of guestrooms is themed differently - rooms on the eighth level have a sci-fi look, while those on the 12th are done with a get-your-groove-on dance-floor theme. Moderate rates, VW Bug-shaped alarm clocks, and a cool eatery called the Corner Office Restaurant and Martini Bar are among the Curtis’ many charms. If you want to be close to the fabulous shopping of Cherry Creek, consider booking a room at the posh JW Marriott Denver, a contemporary 11-stoW hotel whose cushy accommodations have 32-inch flat-screen TVs, DVD/CD players, marble-and-granite bathrooms, and plush bedding with custom duvets and linens. The sterling service is another plus. One of the most romantic options is the gay-owned Capitol Hill Mansion B&B, a stately Queen Anne Victorian on an attractive residential street. Owners Jay Hadley and Carl Schmidt serve a lavish full breakfast each morning as wel! as refreshments and snacks in the afternoon; guests enjoy such pleasing amenities as free Wi-Fi and fresh flowers in every room, and gas fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and private balconies in the top units. In the same neighborhood, the gay-friendly Castle Marne B&B offers similarly cushy, antiquesfilled rooms. The imposing 1889 building is one of Denver’s most distinctive houses, with its elaborate turrets and stonework. Probably no Denver hotel is more famous than the prestigious Brown Palace Hote! & Spa, which has hosted such dignitaries as Teddy Roosevelt and Sun Yat-sen during its 115-year tenure. Even if you don’t have a chance to stay in one of the hotel’s lavish rooms, consider dropping by for the daily afternoon high tea or evening cocktails in the famed Atrium Lobby, or for the decadent Dom Perignon brunch held in Ellyngton’s Restaurant on Sunday mornings. the STAR 21 MAY 2007 Gay LoA. All the One of the perks of being a "nationally syndicated columnist," which is my newest personal brand, is getting books in the mail to review. As the latest volume slipped out of its padded envelope, I saw "sexual outlaws, power politics, and lipstick lesbians" set in small caps across the middle of the cover. Mmmmm, this book is for me. Gay L.A.: A History of,.. (insert those three descriptors that caught my attention here), written by award-winning historians Lillian Faderman and Stuart Timmons, turns on its ear the notion that the lesbian and gay movement started in any one particular city. L.A.’s gay roots go way beygnd the emergence of Hollywood in the 1920s. We need to go all the way back before California was a state, before we were even a nation, and we find the raale native Americans who inhabited these lands to be quite fluid in their sexuality. California’s name came from Hernan Cortes, the explorer who discovered the tract of land now lmown as the Golden State. It seems that Cortes was taken with the 15th-century "protolesbian tale," as the authors put it, about a mythical isle called California, where Queen Califia lived among strong, butch women. Just like in the Amazonia legend, Califia’s women "waged bloody war on other lands, killing most of the males but carrying a few so that they might copuJate with them for the sake of procreation." For some reason, Cortes put that myth together with this new land and wrote "California" across the map of what was to become North America. The name stuck, but the legend - like those of most who come and go in this town known for making legends - faded into obscurity until Faderman and Timmons connected their gay dots. It wasn’t until Hollywood happened, with its star-making quality, that L.A. and gay really started to become synonymous. We flocked to this city of creativity and makebelieve because we could do just that - create and make believe we could be whatever we Way If only that was totally true. When it comes to the relationship between the community and the notorious LAPD...well, let’s just say it wasn’t a Hollywood love story. "The LAPD in the years after WW~I and into the 1960s was really particularly vicious in regard to lesbians and gay men," Faderman told me in a recent interview. "The police hired Hollywood rejects - handsome young men looking to break into the movie industry - who would then go to the places gay men cruised, hang out, strike up conversations, and then the handcuffs would come out, and the gays would be arrested." It wasn’t only gay men who were victim~- ized by the cops. "Butch women had a hard time, too," said Faderman. "They were very often arrested for ’masquerading.’" \Vghat is this "masquerading"? Being butch and dressing that ~vay. It seems that there was a laxv on the books, in response to how outrageous the puritanical city fathers thought things were getting, that men couldn’t be seen in public in women’s clothes, and women couldn’t don men’s clothes either. Reading this, I was disgusted by how those we pay taxes to for protection - in a city, the police, for the nation, the armed forces - victimize our community. While "don’t ask, don’t tell" is still in place, the LAPD has changed its tune to some degree. Now they’re recruiting us to their ranks - us meaning lesbians and gays; transgender people need not apply. "The West Hollywood sheriff’s department really wants lesbian and gay folks," explained Faderman. "But on the other hand, I read about a trans person who supported herself by prostitution. The police would take her in the back alley practically every night and rape her." As someone who grew up in L.A., Faderman seems to be particularly proud of the lesbian and gay firsts of her native city. Honestly, these were things I never knew. I always considered Stonewall to be the "start" - that is, after all, what we celebrate every June. In 1947, for example, the first lesbian magazine, Vice Versa, was started in L.A. A few years later, the Mattachine Society was born - the child of Harry Hay. Ten years before the Stonewall Riots, drag queens and hustlers in downtown L.A. took to the streets to protest the LAPD’s consistent harassment of them at their hangout, Cooper Donuts. In 1968, Troy Perry founded the first gay church, the Metropolitan Community Church, and in ’71 lesbian and gay Jews had a welcoming place to worship at the nation’s first gay synagogue, Beth Chaim Chadashim. "With L.A., there were all these incredible firsts," said Faderman. "It’s sort of incredible that no one has observed that before, and no one has tried to make a history out of it." Until now, that is. This book is a great read that is both entertaining and educational. The nonfiction addict that I am, Gay L.A. gave me my fix of facts and fun that kept me turning the pages. I really xvanted to kmow what happened next. I can’t wait until we all write the next chapters as we continue to tear down the barriers to our freedom. 22 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com Rodeo Schedule Thursday, May 24, 2007, from 9pm till ?, The Great Plains Rodeo Kick off Party, featuring the current royalty and all former royalty we can encourage to attend, at the Finishline. Friday, May 25, 2007, from 6pm till 9pm, The Great Plains Rodeo Registration Party, featuring contestant registration, a silent auction, and a fundraiser shiny, at the Oklahoma State Fair Park Barn 3. Saturday, May 26, 2007, from 8am till ?, Rodeo events with grand entry around noonish at the Oklahoma State Fair Park Barn 6. Tickets are $10.00. Saturday, May 26, 2007, from 6:30pm till 9pm, The Texas Tea Party, featuring the IGRA Royalty, The Texas Royalty and the Oklahoma Royalty, and others, at the COPA. Sunday, May 27, 2007, from 8am till ?, Rodeo events with grand entry around noonish at the Oklahoma State Fair Park Barn 6. Tickets are $10.00. Sunday, May 27, 2007, from 8pm till ?, Rodeo awards ceremony, at the Oklahoma State Fair Park Barn 3. BBQ Dinner $10 per plate advance purchase by end grand entry Sunday see any OGRA royalty member or Officer. You’re guaranteed a fun filled and exciting weekend at Oklahoma’s largest Gay Rodeo. Tickets can be purchased at the gate. For more information go to: www.ogra.net or call 405-290-8779 Jays ModelAgency Talent Search ~ Males 18 to 21 Jays Model Agency is Seeking New Faces for our 2007 Online Gallery ofArtistic Nude, Casual& Formal Wear Models. We Pay Our Models $300 to $500 Call Today (405) 946-5297 See Our Display Ads in Frest~rn~: & Men Magaaine Creating Community for Peop ÷ :ving with H~ViAIDS 50t c (3) Non Profit Organizatio,:t Our House, Too offers a vadoty of activities for people who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves. We invite anyone who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail harrismmjr@yahoo.com. www.ozarksstar.com The STAR 23 www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 25 GAYCO From page 12 With seven players at their Eureka appearance, the troupe delivered a performance that would make the raunchiest of comedians and the driest of analysts proud. Opening their show with a stirring anthem of "gay recruitment" the comedians set the precedent that over the next hour and a half nothing, not even death, would be sacred. Blending lesbian issues and gay issues, the comedy of Gayco had a little something for everybody. Whether it was a widower admitting her secret love for her best friend or the gay man dating the barely eighteen year old, the situations that Gayco created were as real as the performers themselves (even though it may take a few years to see "Baby Time Share" become a reality). ’%V4e like to take hot topics of the day, but also what is going on in our lives," explains Eninger. "Sometimes we’ll have a sketch completely written and sometimes we’ll just improvise it. We use the ensemble to improve each idea and make it better." Eninger says that thanks to the unique backgrounds of each of the core cast members and their crew of artistic associates, that the show is able to have such a wide ranging appeal. "A lot of people in the comedy and improvisational tend to have a broad background, most everyone has some kind of theatrical training and has worked with some kind of improvisational group. You add on to that having a broad based understanding of things like politics, anth. ropology and cultural references to make your jokes as on top of your intelligence as possible." "We all (the cast) have an activist streak in us," Eninger continues, "we all have a message we want to get across that’s paramount, but we’re also not afraid to get a little low brow. Gay people like that too. It’s nice to show a human scene with a couple and just flip to show something like ’Club Uranus.’" During the show, the Gayco Performers were not the only ones who had fun on stage. Participants from an improvisational workshop held the day before xvere invited to become a part of the act. According to the group, one of their favorite parts of touring is reaching out to the communities they visit to help aspiring performers (or those wbo just want to do it for fun) learn a little bit more about their craft. If and when Gayco will returns to Eureka Springs is not yet known, but for the group that travels the world, Diversity Pride is a favorite stop. Be sure not to miss them if you have the chance. 26 the STAR DBA METRO OKC PRIDE EVENT A SUCCESS By Jeanne Flanigan Photo by I~ctor Gorin: Left to Right, Reverend ScottJones ofCathedral ofHope Drag Emcee Ivana Deville, Jeanne Flaniagn. OKLAHOMA CITY, OK~Xhe Diversity Business Association of Metro OKC hosted the Second Annual Silent Auction and Benefit for OKC Pride on March 29 at the Copa. Nick Post and his staff provided a banquet buffet, a festive ambience, and space for 6 locations throughout the club for auction items. The auction included approximately 60 items, ranging from original art to tools and electronics. The benefit made over $7000 for the OKC Pride Festival and Parade, which is celebrating their 20th Anniversary in June. This time the event raised over twice as much as it did last year, thanks largely to entertainers Alison Scott, Lady Spencer, and the magnificent Ivana Deville. Three large items were raffled off, with several generous people buying over 100 tickets each. The club was filled to capacity with many DBA members, a!ong with other movers and shakers of the community. DBA Metro meets twice monthly for networking and educational opportunities. For more information !og on to www.dbametro.org. Drag Queen Bingo _At Cains Ballroom, Tu]lsa. By Randy Vineyard TULSA, OK__On May 4th the Cains Ballroom will play host to yet another historic event. Drag Queen Bingo, benefiting Our House Too sponsored by Regional Aids Funds Ameri-Corp and the Cains. An annual event in Tulsa, this years theme will be "Tulsa’s Dream Girls Present Motown", the 60’s remember. Local celebrities will be performing and a show stopping appearance by Tulsa King Ty West. The event will be hosted by Kris Kohl, a veteran performer of 31 years. Twenty additional fantastic female impersonators will be entertaining you. Prizes for Bingo and door give-a ways have been donated by local business and associations. Doors open at 8pm. Tickets are on sale now, Milton Harris 918-585-9552. All proceeds will benefit Our House Too a Tulsa area aids outreach activity center. A LANDMAP K GONE \Vho Remembers the Free Spirit? By Victor Gorin OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__Maybe it wasn’t so long ago, or maybe longer ago than some of us might xvant to admit, when OKC’s most fabulous place to dance and party was the Free Spirit. Located at 3121 N. Classen, originally an Episcopalian Church, it first changed to an upscale restaurant called Dino’s Steak & Spaghetti before it became the Free Spirit disco in 1977, owned by Steve Sixbey & managed by Michael Tarr. Affectionately nicknamed "the Spirit"( and its regulars "Spirit Queens") it became the "in" place to be featuring cutting edge dance music, some of Oklahoma’s early fabulous pageants, and even appearances by major artists including Sylvester & Disco Tex/Sex-o-Lets. In 1982 the club became Jazzy’s, a straight club with a predominantly black clientele. It changed back to the gay focused Free Spirit again in 1984, competing head on with Angles which had just opened in 1982, and the war began as to who would be OKC’s premier gay dance dub. The partiers !oved the battle, which resulted in all you could drink for $5 on Fridays and Saturdays at both venues, but the Free Spirit finally capitulated in August of 1984. Again going through a series of straight ventures, it emerged again as a gay club in 1986 renamed "~he Bar," even though it was still referred to as "the Spirit." ~hat venture failed as well, and after a long run as the straight club" Infinity" it made a few more changes before finally closing the doors for good. The building sat abandoned for many years before finally being demolished in March of this year. "Now a vacant lot with a future unforeseen at this time, memories of that place will always inspire priceless memories for some of us to treasure and pass on. www.ozarksstar.com THE COPA: Strip-Off Contest 12am MO BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pm "~DNESDAY May 2 BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pro. THE COPA: Varie9" Show 10:30pro FINISHHNE: Dart Tournament I0pm THURSDAY May3 CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Show ~v/Rachad Erikks THE COPA: Open Talent wtShemoane Somemore 10:30pro LEDO: Kari-Okie host. Pancho 9pro FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pm THE COPA: Mate Dancers 9pro THE COPA: Strip-Off Contest 12am BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pro THE COPA: Varlet7 Shmv 10:30pro FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pm CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Show wtRachael Erikks THE COPA: Open Talent wlShe~noane Somemore 10:30pm FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pm LEDO: Kari-Okie host, Pancho 9pro SATU May5 THE COPA: Male Dancers 9prn GUSHERS: Late Night Breakfast Buffet 1 am-3:30am SUN THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro CLUB MAJESTIC: /vlajestic Kings Show 10pm. BAMBOO LOUNGE: Free Brunch LUB b~JESTIC: Carla Lee Love Show 10pm GUSHERS: Late Night Breakfast Buffet THE COPA: P,achael Erikks Show lam-3:30am 10:30pm THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pm BAMBOO LOUNGE: Free Brunch 2pro, CLUB MAJESTIC: Carla Lee Love Show 10pm THE COPA: Rachael Erikks Show 10:30pro BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pm. THE COPA: Strip-OffContest Midnight. BA!vIBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pm THE COPA: Varieq, Show 10:30pm FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pro THURSDAY M~v 17 CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Show w/ Rachaet Erikks THE COPA: Open Talent wlShemoane Somemore 10:30pro FINISHHNE: Dart ~bumament 10pm LEDO: Kari-Okie host, Pancho 9pro THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pm BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pro THE COPA: \4trieiy Show 10:30pro HNISHLINE: Dart Tournament !0pro THURSDBX May 24 CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Show wt Rachael Erikks THE COPA: Open Talent w/Shemoane Somemore t0:30pm FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pro LEDO: Kari-Okie host, Pancho 9pro \ May [25 THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro CLUB NL&JESTIC: Miss Oklal~oma Continental 2007 - Doors open 8pro OGRA: RODEO, OKC OGRA: RODEO. OKC THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro GUSHERS: Late Night Breakfast Buffet lam-3:30am SUN 27 OGRA: RODEO, OKC BAMBOO LOUNGE: Brunch 2pro BIG Memorial Cookout. CLUB MAJESTIC: Catia Lee Love Show 10pm "H-IE COPA: Rachael Erikks Show 10:30pm MEMORIAL DAY BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pro, THE COPA: Male Dancers 9pro GUSHERS: Late Night Breakfast Buffet THE COPA: Strip-Off Contest lam-3:30am Midnight. BAMBOO LOUNGE: Free Brunch 2pm, Kris Kohl Show 8pm CLUB MAJESTIC: Catia Lee Love Show 10pm THE COPA: Rachael Erikks Show 10:30pm DAY May 30 BAMBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pm THE COPA: gariety Show 10:30pro FINISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pm www,ozarksstar.com BA~MBOO LOUNGE: Karaoke 9pm. CLUB MAJESTIC: Talent Show w/ Rachael Erildcs THE COPA: Strip-Off Contest Midnight. After Dark is a free service to ou~ advertisers and is the responsibility of the advertiser to inform the STAR in writing of updates, additions or discontinued events, q’he STAR is not responsible for accurac): THE COPA: Open Talent wlShemoane Somemore 10:30pro HNISHLINE: Dart Tournament 10pm LEDO: Kari-Okie host, Pancho 9pm the STAR 27 "Doodle, Capricorn!" Mercury aligned with the Sun in Taurus makes us stubbornly attached to our ideas. Both orbs clashing with Pluto bring those ideas under harsh scrutiny. Arguments are inevitable but offer chances to learn. ARIES (~arch 20 -April 19): Holding fast to your principles doesn’t require arguing with everyone who disagrees with you. Better to challenge yourself and see if your ideals are strong enough to encompass more than just the ideas you’re comfortable with. TAURUS (April 21) - May 21)): Little disagreements can feel like major personal attacks. Try to shrug them off and relax. A little sexual exploration can take the edge off, although that might also feel like a challenge. Still, it should be a challenge you can rise to! GEMINI (May 21 - June 21)): An erotic retreat with your partner can relieve pressures that are making you feel paranoid. Even if you (~an’t get away, stop imagining hostile agendas behind every conversation. Meditation or a dream journal can help unravel what’s really bothering you. CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Your long-range vision may cause clashes with colleagues who are locked into accomplishing the task at hand. Helpful as your ideas may be, arguing about them won’t help. Bite your lip, go with the flow, and save your inspirations for later. LEO (July 23 - August 22): Eager to get ahead, you may be pushing too hard. Sit back a bit, strategize, and try to cultivate finesse. Getting into everyone’s face about your brilliance is counter-productive. Let your creativity speak for itself. VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Being terribly certain in your ideas can put you at odds with your family or your community. It may well be that you have something important to tell them, but you need to listen in order to be heard. LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): The more you struggle against scandal, the more it grows. A bemused response - "Mercy! Who’s telling such silly stories?" - wilt help facilitate a quick change of subject. Or you may prefer a smug, quiet smile that enhances a wicked mystique. SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): If you’re partnered, arguments are nearly inevitable for you, with money being the likely trigger. If you’re single, your feistiness will make or break the interest of a potential mate. Arguments now can foreshadow a bigger struggle in six weeks. 28 the STAR SAG~TTAR~US (November 22 o December 20): Safe sex is as important now as ever. Your health is extremely vulnerable right now, especially in erotic situations, but also while you’re at work or exercising. Re-examine your habits at work, working out, and "working it." There’s always room for improvement! CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19): Your efforts at playful repartee may seem a bit artificial, as if you’re trying to hide something that is bothering you. At an unconscious level, you probably are. Doodling, humming, or singing in free association can help provide clues to what’s behind the banter. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): How far do your ambitions and dreams lead you away from the comfort of family or tribe? And how far away do you really need to go? Those questions seem important now. The answers are not comfortable, but neither are they final. PISCES (February 19 - Nlarch 19): The stronger your opinions, the more they’ll be challenged. Do some homework to back up your arguments. You may even learn something that wil! push you to grow and change. Remember, it’s only resistance to change that makes it difficult. FREE NIV TESTING, NO NEEDLES SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC SPONSORS Testing appointment 41%529-8480. 2902 E. 20th St., PO Box 4711 Joplin, Mo 64803 SATURDAY Service 9:30AM Your Invited to our COITIITIUI~ty Dinner Every Wed. 6pm just $4.00. No one is turned away. www.ozarksstar.com Arkansas, Bentonviile/Rogers (479) NWA GLBT Ctr .... www.nwaglbtcc.org.........888-391-9222 Barnes & Noble Bks - - 261 N. 46th St., Rogers- - - -479-636-2002 Arkansas, Eureka Springs (479) Diversity Pride Events - www.diversitypride.com A Byrd’s Eye View..... 36 N. Main........... 479-253-0200 Caribe Restaurante.... 309 W VanBuren....... 479-253-8102 Henri’s ....... 19 !/2 Spring St ............. 479-253-5795 Lumberyard Bar&Grill- - - 105 E VanBuren....... 479-253-0400 MCC Living Spring - 17 Elk Street- Service 6PM- - -479-253-9337 Swiss Holiday Resort- Hwy 62 at Hwy 23 So.- .... 888-582-8464 Spexton........ 17B Spring Street-- -479-981-6060 Tiki Torch........ 75 S. Main Street- ........ -479-253-2305 Tradewinds Lodge - 141 W. VanBuren- 800-242-1615 Arkansas, Fayetteville (479) Common Ground Restaurant- - - 412 W. Dixon - - - 479-442-3515 Condom Sense ......... 418 W. Dickson.......479-444-6228 Curry’s Video - - - 612 N. College Ave- - -479-521-0009 Flames Bar - - - 40 E. Center- ............... 479-251-1922 Passages ......930 N. College Ave- 479-442-5845 Tangerine Club - -21 N. Block Ave. 479-587-9512 Arkansas, Fort Smith (479) Kinkeads.......1004 1/2 Garrison Ave........ 479-783-9988 Klub XLR8 ......1022 Dodson Ave- - - 479-782-9578 Red Rock City - - - 917 N. "A" St.- 479-242-2489 Arkansas, Hot Springs (501) Jesters Lounge .... 1010 E. Grand Ave .........501-624-5455 Arkansas, Little Rock (501) Back Street .... 1021 Jessie Rd- -501-6642744 Diamond State Rodeo Assoc. - www.dsra.org Discovery-~--- 102! Jessie Rd- -501-666-6900 Sidetracks--- 415 Main St--North L.R. 501-244-0444 The Factory ...... 412 Louisiana St.- - 501-372-3070 Club U.B.U. - ..... 824 W Capitol Ave......... 501-375-8580 Kansas, Junction City (785) Xcalibur Club...... 384 Grant Ave. 785-762-2050 Kansas, Pittsburg (620) PSU-QSA.-- 1701 S. Broadway- ..............620-231-0938 River of Life Church.- - 1709 N. Walnut- -Service 11AM Kansas, Wichita (316) Our Fantasy/South40..... 3201 S. Hillside......316-682-5494 Priscilla’s..... 6143 W Kellogg Dr- .316-942-1244 Club Glacier- ........ 2828 E. 31st South......316-612-9331 Missouri, Ava (417) Catus Canyon Campground ................. 417-683-9199 Missouri, Joplin (417) MCC Spirit of Christ- - -2902 E 20th, - ......Sat Service-9:30AM Joplin Gay/Lesbian Cntr- PO Box 4383, zip 64803- -417-622-7821 Missouri, Kansas City (816) 40th Street Inn....w~w.40thstreetinn.com.......816-561-7575 Concourse Park B&B - - 300 Benton BIvd ........ 816-231-1196 Hydes KC Gym & Guest Hs -www.hydeskc.com - - 816-561-! 010 Missie B’s....805 W. 39th St- ...............816-561-0625 Missouri, Springfield (417) The Edge..... 424 Boonville Ave- 417-831-4700 GLO Comm. Ctr---518 E. Commerical- 417-869-3978 JR’s Nightclub.... 504 E. Commerical. 417-831-9001 Martha’s Vineyard- - - 219 W Olive -417-864-4572 Ronisuz Place....821 College............... 417-864-0036 Oklahoma, Enid (580) Hastings Books.... 104 Sunset .............. 580-242-6838 Priscilla’s........ -4810-A West Garriott- ...... 580-233-5511 Oklahoma, Lawton (580) Ingrids Bookstore..... 1124 NW Cache Rd......580-353-1488 Oklahoma, McAlester (9~i8) McPride........... POBox 1515, - .... McAlester, OK 74502 Oklahoma, Oklahoma City (405) American Crossroads B&B - POBox 270642...... 405-495-1111 Blue Dog Liquor- ..... -4015 N. Penn 405-606-7000 Boom Room....... 2807 NW 36th St- 405-601-7200 Border’s Books...... 3209 NW Expressway..... 405-848-2667 CD Warehouse...... 4001 N. Penn .......... 405-525-7766 Club Rox.......3535 NW 39th Expwy........ -405-947-2351 Christie’s Toy Box- ....3126 N. May Ave 405-946-4438 Church of Open Arms......3131 N. Penn...... 405-525-9555 Copa- .2200 NW 39th Exp........405-525-0730 Eastern Ave Video- - -1105 S Eastern Ave........ -405-6726459 Finishline ....... 2200 NW 39th Expwy........405-525-9200 Gushers Restaurant.....2200 NW 39Exp ...... 405-525-0730 Habana Inn -2200 NW 39th Exp....... 405-528-2221 Herland Sisters Resources.... 2312 NW 39th St--405-521-9696 Hollywood Hotel.... 3535 NW 39th Exp ....... -405-947-2351 Hi-Lo Club ....... 1221 NW 50th- Jungle Reds .......2200 NW Expwy Ledo- .2200 NW Expwy........ Naughty But Nice .... 3121 SW 29th St ....... Partners. 2805 NW 36th St Pec’s- -3535 NW 39th Expw ........ Priscilla’s........ 615 E. Memorial- Red Rock North- - - 2240 NW39th St.......... Rudy’s Place......3535 NW39th Expw........ Phoenix Rising .... 2120 NW 39th St- The Park 2125 NW 39th St The Patio Topanga Grill & Bar- Tramps- Ziggy’s- -405-843-1722 -405-524-5733 -405-525-0730 -405-681-5044 -405-942-2199 405-947-2351 -405-755-8600 -405-525-5165 -405-947-2351 -405-601-3711 -405-528-4690 3201N. MayAve ......... 405-917-1663 --3535 NW39th -405-917-1663 -2201NW39th. -405-521-9888 -4005 N. Penn- -405-521-9999 Oklahoma, Tulsa (918) Bamboo Lounge....7204 E. Pine Border’s Book Store- - - 2740 E, 21st- Border’s Book Store--- 8015 S. Yale Circle Cinema...... !0 S. Lewis- Club 209 ....... 209 N. Boulder - Club Majestic....... 124 N. Boston Club Maverick..... 822 S. Sheridan Cosmo Deli & Bar- - 6746 S. Memorial Dreamland Bks .... 8807 E. Admiral PI Equality Center ..... 621 E. 4th Street........ Hideaway Lounge..... 11730 E. 11th HOPE Clinic....... 3540 E. 31st Midtown 319 E. 3rd- 918-836-8700 918-712-9955 918-494-2665 --918-592-3456 918-584-9944 918-584-9494 918-835-3301 -918-459-0497 .918-834-1051 -918-743-4297 918-437-0449 ---918-749-8378 918-584-3112 Openarms Youth Projt - - - 2015 S. Lakewood.....918-838-7104 Our House, Too ....203 N Nogales Ave. -918-585-9552 Priscilla’s -7925 E. 41st.....918-627-4884 Priscilla’s ........ 5634 W. Skelly ........... 918-446-6336 Priscilla’s ........ 11344 E. 11th .............918-438-4224 Priscilla’s 2333 E. 71st- -918-499-1661 Renegades........ 1649 S. Main -- 918-585-3405 Rob’s Records- - -2909 S. Sheridan Rd......... 918-627-1505 Sappho’s...... ~ - 6373-C E 31st St- 918-836-0299 Tulsa CARES.... 3507 E. Admiral PI - - 918-834-4194 Tulsa Central Library ...... 400 Civic Center- - - - 918-596-7977 Tulsa Eagle.....1338 E. 3rd ................918-592-1188 TNT’s ......... 2114 S. Memorial- - - 918-660-0856 Yellow-Brick-Rd....... 2630 E. 15th 918-293-0304 AT A POWNTOWN CHUB, :20 MINUTES hATeR_.- bitter girl email: bittergid@qsyndicate.com 30 the STAR www.joanhilty.net www.ozarksstar.com NWArkansas GLBT CommuniW Center "Lin-ldng Together as One" For more information: 888-391-9222 WWW.NWAGLBTCC.ORG 1st furnished or N.W. Oklahoma City gay male residence. Attached ½ bath access to full bath. Laundry facilities available, cable TV. $275 per month all bills paid with 12 month lease. Employed person only, references required Call (405) 521 2131 www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 31 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2007] The Star Magazine, May 1, 2007; Volume 4, Issue 5 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource May 01, 2007 Subject The topic of the resource Politics, education, and social conversation over LGBTQ+ topics Description An account of the resource The Star Magazine’s first issue began February of 2005. Before this issue was Ozarks Pride (2004) and The Ozark Star (2004). Follows is The Metro Star (2008). This magazine discusses topics of AIDs, education, politics, local and national civil rights of the LGBT community, and advice for relationships and places to visit. This collection is PDF searchable. Physical copies are also available to be seen at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center with permission. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Star Media, Ltd Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Star Media, Ltd Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource C.D. Ward Greg Steele Jeanne Flanigan Joey D. Paul Wortman James Nimmo Victor Gorin Greg Gatewood Libby Post Andrew Collins Donald Pile Ronald Blake Ray Williams Michael Hinzman Jack Fertig Liz Highleyman Devre Jackson Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Image PDF Online text Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource magazine Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Southwestern Missouri Western Arkansas Southeastern Kansas Eastern Oklahoma The United States of America (50 States) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://history.okeq.org/collections/show/19 Relation A related resource The Star Magazie, April 1, 2007; Volume 4, Issue 4 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/202 The Star Magazine, June 1, 2007; Volume 4, issue 6 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/208 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context https://history.okeq.org/items/show/210 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/983c37a58cc9eb63ee764f8c9ae250c2.jpg 52e9ffb1d524c1834418f5ddf4ad3259 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/27d2d7f880e623a428f671f56c0f22dc.pdf 39b32e3fdd455b9fc74bf63f93f54d50 PDF Text Text Happy Thanksgiving STATEHOOD DAY San Francisco & Austin, Texas �West 7th Street (corner 7th & Bolder Ave) o Tulsa, Ok 74t t 9 o www.downtownplazatulsa~com Reservations: 918.585.5998 ® 800.585.5101 Where you can b YOU" 2 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 3 �{ LOCAL Real Men Fry Turkeys and International Gay Bowling hits OKC. Oklahoma’s Centennial Kicks off in our first Capitol, Guthrie. October 1930 (77 years ago last month) Sociologist Laud Humphreys is born in Chickasha, Oklahoma. Pinot Noir is one of the oldest vine grape varieties known. This grape has been cultivated in Burgundy since the 1st century AD. Rachael Sage Talks with the STAR before her performap,ce in Tulsa. Gay Travelers: San Francisco Out of Town: Austin, Texas Dining In or OUT Lesbian Notions, an interview with Jennifer Chrisler, executive director of the Family Equality Council. Introspection can lead you to better understand yourself and ultimately to achieve greater happiness. In the interview with Nick Post, the new owner of Angles, we incorrectly stated due to a typo that he had acquired the Finishline, Copa, Ledo and Gushers in 2007. It was actually 2000. We regret the error. STAR DISTRIBUTION: ON THE COVER: Deborah Harry & Rachael Sage 4 the STAR OKLAHOMA CITY * TULSA * LAWTON * MCALESTER * ENID * NEW ORLEANS * NORTH LITTLE RODK * FAYETTEVILLE * FT SMITH * EUREKA SPRINGS * HOT SPRINGS * BENTONVILLE * ROGERS * KANSAS CITY * SPRINGFIELD * JOPLIN * BRANSON AREA* WICHITA* PITTSBURG * JUNCTION CITY www.ozarksstar.com �R÷a By Greg Steele With all the outing of gay penguins, sheep, dogs and other species, is there a possibility there are gay turkeys? How would you know if you were eating one of our own? I mean the poor critters are just herded into the slaughter pen, humanely killed, I presume, plucked and whisked off to Walmart. I for one will be asking the Walmart meat lady if my turkey was gay! I refuse to bake, fry, barbecue or boil a family member. We assume that all turkeys are hetero, and it’s OK to bake or fry ect., a homophobic hetero turkey, but what if your turkey was hetero and gay friendly? This outing of animals and now fowl is just not right. It raises so many questions and creates so many problems and it’s Thanksgiving for God’s sake. Where are the Fowl Rights people when you need them! Have a Great Holiday! INTERNATIONAL GAY BOWLING TOURNAMENT AND CONVENTION ROLLS INTO OKLAHOMA CITY OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (P/R) __ Oklahoma City wilt be hosting the International Gay Bowling Organization’s (IGBO) 2007 Mid-Year Tournament and Convention, November 7-12, 2007. This event will cap offtwo years of preparation by the OKClassic Bowling Association as it welcomes bmvlers from al! over the United States and Canada. IGBO is the world’s largest GLBT sports organization with over 170 member leagues and over 60 member tournaments. OKClassic has hosted one of IGBO’s largest and most-respected tournaments for over 16 years and has donated over $100,000 to local charities in the process. Oklahoma City hosted IGBO’s 1994 Annual Tournament and Convention. The convention activities will be held at The Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites on NW 63rd & Robinson. IGBO’s Board of Directors, Regional. Representatives, and league and tournament representatives from around the world will conduct various business meetings at the ......................................... Continuedpa~,e- 27 www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 5 �breaking the law? Doesn’t this suggestion smell strongly of Nazism and other totalitarian creeds such as one-child China? rocre tior Uber AlOes OK~.AHOMA CITY, OK__ Who would have thought that the successful union of a spermatozoa and an ovum would be a taxpaying citizen’s certification of citizenship. ¯he highest court of the state of Maryland has recently joined New York and Washington state in ruling that because same-gendered people can’t procreate they can not be married in the same way that opposite-gendered people can. Reading between the lines it seems straight people who have the corresponding slot A and tab B are automatically entitled to the approximately 1,400 Federal and state benefits that accrue with state-sponsored marriage. I always thought that paying taxes made one a citizen. Odd, that even though I have no children, I’m still required to pay school taxes. Additionally, I pay a sales tax to help pay for municipal structures such as sports arenas that I will never use, my gasoline taxes are used to pave roads which I’ll never drive on, and my library taxes will pay for books which H1 never read. IfI were a God-fearing, Bible-banging GOP straight man truly interested in the precepts of the great Creator who knows all things and requires the institution of marriage to be solely and soulfully about procreation I would legislate for the fol!owing policy to be instituted. A provisional license would be issued following a medical examination to determine the gender and procreative viability of the man and woman applying. Should one applicant fai! this examination in either part no license from the state would be allowed. In addition the failing partner would be required to register on a publicly available website to insure against fraud and redundancy. Opposite gendered married couples that do not procreate vcithin three years of their marriage will have that marriage annulled. And now, at least in Maryland, New York and Washington-- I have to pony up with a wife and child in order to be a REAL citizen? Paying taxes isn’t enough? If a procreative impediment, other than self-induced conditions, develops after the issuance of the provisional license as ~vell as after the issuance of the final license, the marriage would be allowed to continue. I’m glad these anti-gay judicial decisions are finally exposing the hypocrisy of our socalled civil society where the First Amendment defense of the separation of secular and sacred is being ignored and willfully convoluted in order to perpetuate the ideas of religious supremacy, the power of the penis, and the submissiveness of the vagina. Should there be a stillbirth or death within one year of the birth of a living child, an extension of one year would allowed for each subsequent stillbirth or early death. Such extensions would continue until the natural menopausal advancement occurs with the woman. The man is considered to be fertile for life. Since when was being the father or mother of a child necessary to prove one’s citizenship? Is that really the case? As the balance scale of Lady Justice is replaced with a cudgel, and her blindfold exchanged for binoculars it would do for us all, gay or straight, to reassess just what makes a civil society. Don’t we all know married straights who have never had biological children? Are their marriages in danger of being repudiated in those states that have ruled procreation as a necessary possibility for a complete marriage? Are childless marriages 6 the STAR AS our American society devolves into a seriously reality-adverse Gulag of religiously based proscriptions against equality, and as the "demos" is removed from Democracy and replaced with "theos", I’ve written a proposed bill that someone like Trent "gays have Heptomania" Lott, Larry ’Tm not gay" Craig, David "diaper" Vitter, or Jim "no gays in my family" Inhofe wil! take up on the floor of Congress. wxvw.ozarksstar.corn �~’wvw.ozarksstar.com the STAR 7 �Recognized by Keller Williams For outsLandlng achievement 2005 and 2006 3627 NW Expressway Chuck Sreckenridge 918-706-1887 405.840.2106 TESTING CLINIC hea]t~ ow~each prevention education, inc. 1-800-535-AIDS (2437) Oklahoma’s HIV/STD Hotline PROTECT YOURSELF PROTECT YOUR PARTNER(S) ¯ Frse nonjudgmental HIV ~esting, including the 20 minute OraQuick TesL KNOW YOUR STATUS *Free Syphillis screening at th~ GLBT Community Center on Tuesdays from 6-Spin H,O,P.E. Testing Clinic Mens Outreach Program In Tulsa at (918) 812-7045 8 the STAR Let us promote your business in a UNIQUE & DIVERSE market. Call STAR ADVERTISING today. (918)835-7887 www.ozarksstar.com �www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 9 �AID S WALK OKC STOP HATE N THE HALLWAYS R~MEMBEIUNG THOSE PASSED ON, WORKING TO WA~ocDS A BETTER FUTURE. A BULLYNG CONFERENCE THAT NADE By Victor Gorin H STORY By Victor Gorin OKLAHOIVlA CITY, OK __ On October 11 history was made in Oklahoma. Although there had been numerous conferences and seminars about school safety in the past, there had always been something conspicuously missing, and to one group of victims, along with their friends and families, it was obvious. It was students harassed because of their real or perceived sexual orientation. Photo:Joe @dgle); OKC sc~ool teacher and political activist with Miss America Lauren Nelson OKLAHOMA CITY, OK __ Keeping up a proud tradition begun in 1998, the Oklahoma City AIDS Walk was held again on Sunday, September 29 as usual sponsored and supported by a wide variety of groups & people from all walks of life to help those living with HIV, prevention and education, as well as remembering those passed on. ~his year the occasion was honored as Miss America, Oklahoma’s own Lauren Nelson, headlined as this year’s Grand Marshall. This year’s walk raised over $60,000. The Walk benefits the AIDS Support Program/Winds House, RAIN (Regional AIDS Intercommunity Network), Guiding Right, Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma-HIV/AIDS Legal Resource Project, Northern Lights Alternatives, Other Options Inc, Planned Parenthood of Oklahoma & Red Rock North. Currently over 6000 Oklahomans are living with HIV or AIDS. OKC MDS Walk President Danny Morgan looked to the future with his statement, "We are really excited over the increase in attendance and money raised over last year, and we’re looking forward to an even bigger event with yet more money raised for the valuable work that our agencies do in the Oklahoma City area." 10 the STAR The Stop Hate in the Hallways Conference was held at the Springlake Metro Tech Campus, organized by Cimarron Alliance and co-sponsored by numerous organizations. The conference was attended by over 300 people, among them teachers, school administrators, law enforcement, and other people from all walks of life throughout Oklahoma. As one of the organizers, OKC Councilperson Ann Simank pointed out, " I think the conference is addressing many issues that should have been addressed years and years ago. The whole goal is for the attendees today to obtain some real knowledge and tools to take back to their communities so that they’ll be able to make children safer and feel better, to feel accepted." The conference explored the price society pays for school bullying. Victims of bullying are less likely to go on to college, many even drop out of high school to escape abuse, thus doing serious damage to their careers. School districts have been successfiAly sued when harassment was deliberately allowed, and tragedies have resulted that have made schools less safe. The keynote speaker was Kevin Jennings, the founder and national director of GLSEN (Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network), which works to educate the public and school systems about the problems faced by students harassed due to sexual orientation. A former teacher himself, he pointed out that a generic policy prohibiting bullying" is no more valuable than no policy at all. Gay students likelihood of skipping school is when they see themselves specifically mentioned in the policy, among race, religion, color, and so on". He also pointed out that it has been shown that schools that have a policy specifically protecting students from harassment due to sexual orientation have a lower incidence of bullying overall. On a positive note, he stated that among parents surveyed almost 83% support school policies protecting students from bullying due to real or perceived sexual orientation, even 77% of those parents identified as born again Christians. Although there are many differences of opinion, the overall consensus of parents is that they want their children’s schools to be safe. He compared the threats & opposition of fundamentalist parents opposing a policy of this protection to be "like a dog on the other side of a door that is really a chihuahua. " There was discussion about the Oklahoma City School District, which last year posted on their website the upcoming Student Handbook, which included among the categories protected from bullying & harassment "sexual orientation," then mysteriously pulled those words two days later. Despite numerous appeals by many diverse speakers and groups, the Oklahoma City School Board has yet to give any reply as to why this happened, or why there is no policy protecting OKC students from this category of harassment to this day. To attend the conference, personnel from the OKC school systera had to take personal time off from their jobs. In closing Richard Odgen, President of Cimarron Alliance had some optimism in saying, "I think this will not be the end of this discussion, but the beginning. We’re hopeful that in the years to come that rather than the State Secretary of Education saying ’ I’m too busy’ she wil! be here. Rather than a lack of support from largest school district in the state, there will be a policy of sending teachers to the conference. We’re letting people know, we are going to talk about it, it isn’t right that that these hot topics aren’t discussed, in fact that is why the), must be discussed. " ~.ozarksstar.com �Deborah Harry per£orm At T sa’s Historic Brady eater TULSA, OK (P/R) __ The Dennis 1L Neill Equality Center art gallery will host its monthly meet-the-artist reception from 69pm, Thursday, November 1, 2007, for the opening of its November exhibit, "Schizo", works by artist Patrick Uva. Uva comes to Tulsa via New York City where he studied art at City College of New York. Since moving to his new home, Patrick has created a prolific collection of new paintings and sculpture. His new shmv "SCHIZO" was inspired by the auditory hallucinations he struggles with every day. "I wanted to express my struggle with the voices, but also the idea of collective freedom. I have this ’built-in’ collective consciousness so I wanted to show how individual awareness affects humanity as a whole. Patrick uses vibrant colors, fabric, dirt, sand and even cigarette ash within the confines of a skewed geometry to produce art that is at once violent, harmonious, haunting and ioy6 l. The exhibit will remain up through the month of November, and can be viewed Monday thru Saturday from 3-9pm. The Dennis R. Neill Equality Center is located at 621 E. 4th St., in downtown Tulsa. More info can be found on the web at okeq.org. This monthly event is hosted by Oklahoman’s for Equality (OkEq). OkEq seeks equal rights for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender (LGBT) individuals and families through advocacy, education, programs, alliances, and the operation of the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. Cdebrate 1st Arm versary Oklahoma’s Log Cabin Republicans (LCR) will be celebrating their first year as a chapter of the national organization with a special free barbecue dinner November 1. The social event is for members only and their friends, including many Democrats who have been invited. It is also an event geared toward welcoming potential new members. "We are going to throw a nice dinner party for our members and friends, to celebrate the fact we completed the requirements of our national committee for full chapter status," said Tim O’Herin, president of the group. LCR is the nation’s largest organization of Republicans who support fairness, freedom, and equality for gay and lesbian Americans. It has state chapters nationwide, a full-time staff in \Vashington, DC, and a Federal political action committee. "Although LCR of Oklahoma has been active in the gay community for about three years, this is our first year as a recognized chapter," he said. The party is by invitation only, and will be held in a member’s home in the south Edmond, North Oklahoma City area. The barbecue dinner is being provided by Head Country Barbecue of Ponca City. Dinner will be at 7:30 PM., with a one hour cocktail hour at 6:30 PM. "We encourage any gay man or lesbian who is a Republican, or supports our goals, to contact us for details about the dinner," he said. "Since it is being held at a private residence, we will not publicize the exact details of its location, but anyone who is interested in attending can contact us for further information," O’Herin said. TULSA, OK (P/R) __ The lead singer for Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees Blondie, Deborah Harry is performing at Tulsa’s Historic Brady Theater on Tuesday November 27th. The ultimate pop-rock, new wave diva, Debbie Harry set the mold, incorporating everything she learned from culture pioneers like Andy Warhot, Giorgio Moroder and Fab Five Freddy into her fashion, look and, particularly, sound. With Blondie, she and Chris Stein brought the worlds of disco and rock together with "Heart of Glass", "Dreaming", "The Tide Is High", and "Call Me" and broke ground by combining hiphop and pop on "Rapture." As a solo artist, Nile Rodgers & Bernard Edwards co-produced her first release Koo Koo in 1981. She continues to defy expectations with such genre-busting efforts as "French Kissing in t~he U.S.A.," "Rush Rush," "Rain", ’[Atomic", and "The Jam Was Moving." Before there was Madonna and Gwen Stefani, Debbie Harry was rock’s reigning blonde pin-up icon, and both are quick to acknowledge her inspiration, as are countless female (and male) rockers who have since formed bands. On the heels of her sixth solo album "Necessary Evil", Deborah Harry will be performing live at Tulsa’s Historic Brady Theater Tuesday November 27th, 2007. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $29, $39 & $49. at www.bradytheater.com, Tulsa’s Historic Brady Theater at 105 West Brady, or by calling the Brady Theater Ticket Office at (918) 58-BRADY (27239). .................... Continued page 27 www.ozarksstar.corn the ST.~R 11 �Y÷a GUTHRIE, OK__ The Guthrie Centennial Committee, in coordination with the Oklahoma State Centennial Commission, is proud to present a major state celebration in Guthrie, Oklahoma on November 16, 2007. This State Holiday celebrates the 100 Year Proclamation of Oklahoma Statehood by President Theodore Roosevelt on November 16, 1907. Guthrie, as Oklahoma’s First State Capital, will host historical re-enactments of the statehood proclamation, the swearing-in of Oklahoma’s First Governor, Cliarles Haskell, and the symbolic wedding of Oklahoma Territory with Indian Territory. These re-enactments will be held at the historic Carnegie Library in Guthrie, where they actually occurred in 1907. At 12 Noon, a historic parade will be held, just as occurred in 1907, and will retrace the route from the Scottish Rite Temple to Mineral Wells Park. 12 the STAR ! This historic parade will include major university marching bands such as the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, Langston University, the University of Central Oklahoma, and the Oklahoma Centennial All Star Band. In addition, marching bands from Logan County high schools will also perform. of these crowds will be enormous. City planning is ongoing throughout 2007 to anticipate and deal with crowds. Many volunteers from the Guthrie and Logan County communities, and from the region, will assist in making a historic day for visitors. At Mineral Wells Park, a barbeque will be held with the identical menu which occurred a century ago...barbeque, bread, a pickle, coffee and lemonade. Other events and entertainment venues will also be held throughout the downtown area during the day. Residents are being encouraged to wear early 1900 "Period Dress" for the Statehood Day events. Victorian, Edwardian, and Western dress is encouraged but not required. Visitors to Guthrie are also welcome to wear period attire. Lodging and dining referrals may be found through the Chamber of Commerce at 405-282-1947. Historic Pollard Inn at 405-282-1000 The Guthrie Bed & Breakfast Association through v~.guthriebb.com Sleep Inn at 405-260-1400 With the large anticipated crowds, visitors may desire to bring personal or picnic lunches. State and national dignitaries will be in Guthrie, to participate in the reenactments, and in the parade. The President of the United States has been invited to be in Guthrie also on this day. The City of Guthrie has been advised that between 75,000 and 100, 000 visitors may attend events on this historic day. As a small city, the challenge Lodging, dining, other details: w~wv.ozarksstar.com �PlanetOu InCo Sells RSVP Vacations SAN FRANCISCO, CA (PRNewswireFirstCall __PlanetOut inc., the leading media and entertainment company exclusively focused on the gay and lesbian market, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement with Atlantis Events, Inc. for Atlantis to acquire RSVP Vacations. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close on or about October 24, 2007. The sale will not affect RSVP’s scheduled itinerary, nor will it affect current passenger bookings. "We are extremely pleased that RSVP wil! become part of the Atlantis family," said Karen Magee, chief executive officer, PlanetOut Inc. "Atlantis plans to preserve RSVP’s distinct brand, enabling Atlantis to expand the audience it serves by taking advantage of RSVP’s unique positioning within the LGBT community. We believe this combination also will be a real positive for RSVP’S customers and business partners. It really is a perfect match and we’re looking forward to expanding and extending our marketing relationship with Atlantis." "From a corporate perspective, we believe this transaction demonstrates to our shareholders that we are continuing to deliver on our commitment to leverage our strengths by simplifying our business model and emphasizing our core competencies," added Magee. "We are focused on ensuring that we are in the best position to realize our full potential as the leading media and entertainment company exclusively serving the LGBT market, while also strengthening our balance sheet." Magee also pointed out that the sale of RSVP reflects PlanetOut’s strategy of shifting its business to a model which has advertising revenue at its core, and draws strength from the company’s powerful, iconic media brands. Quot bBe Quotes The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear a challenge to Alabama’s ban on the sale of sex toys, ending a nine-year legal battle and sending a warning to store owners to clean off their shelves. Sherri Williams, owner of Pleasures stores in Huntsville and Decatur, said she was disappointed, but plans to sue again on First Amendment free speech grounds. "My motto has been ’They are going to have to pry this vibrator from my cold, dead hand.’ I refuse to give up," she said. George Takei gets own asteroid: "I am now a heavenly body,’, says the out gay actor of Asteroid 1994 GT9’s official renaming in honor of his long "Star Trek" service. George Takei already had a place among the stars in the minds of millions of"Star Trek" fans. Now he’s taking up permanent residence as the namesake of the asteroid formerly known as the 1994 GTg. The asteroid, located between Mars and Jupiter, has been renamed 7307 Takei in honor of the actor, who is best known for his role as Hikaru Sulu in the original "Star Trek" series. "I think the opponents of gay marriage really fall into two categories. A small group of people just don’t like gay people. If you don’t like one, you don’t like two. It’s geometric. The larger percentage are people who are generally supportive of equal rights, as they have been in Massachusetts, but hear these predictions that it’s going to be socially very chaotic, and they figure, why take the chance?" -Gay U.S. Rep. Barney Frank, D-Mass., to the Wellesley [Mass.] Townsman. Photo: Presenting the Carl Albert Award to Mr. Lemon (right) is fim Frasier, a Tulsa Stonezoall Democrat OKLAHOMA CITY, OK __ On October 20 at the Oklahoma State Democratic Party’s annual Carl Albert Dinner, Bob Lemon received the Carl Albert Award along with the late State Senator Keith Leftwich. Mr.Lemon, who describes himself as "straight but not narrow," is an active member of the Oldahoma StonewaB Democrats and a generous supporter of many causes of the GLBT community. Quotable Quotes Opponents of Oregon’s new same-sex domestic partnership law failed to turn in enough valid signatures to block the measure that takes effect Jan. 1, 2008. "We’re thrilled to bring Atlantis and RSVP together into the same family for the first time," said Rich Campbell, chief executive officer of Atlantis. "The two companies are stronger together than they are apart, and taken together demonstrate the strength and vitality of the gay travel market." www.ozarksstar.corn the STAR 13 �October 1930 (77 yeas ago this month): Sociologist Laud I-tumphreys is born in Chickasha, Oklahoma. was ONahoman Lau d Humphreys? aud I-Iumphreys’ 1970 book, Tearoom Trade: Impersonal Sex in Public Places, presented a landmark ethnographic study of men who cruise for anonymous sex in public bathrooms - a topic that remains relevant to this day. Robert Allan Humphreys was born October 16, 1930, in Chickasha, Okla., the son of a conservative member of the state House of Representatives. After graduating from college in Colorado Springs, Humphreys earned a Master of Divinity degree in 1955 and was ordained an Episcopal priest (at which time he adopted the name "Laud"). He married his wife Nancy at age 30, and the couple had two children. Humphreys’ involvement in black civil rights and antiwar activism in the 1960s garnered attention from the FBI and angered prominent members of his various congregations. After he was dismissed from a parish post in Wichita, Kan., he enrolled in graduate school at Washington University in St. Louis to study socio!ogy and crimino!ogy. Possibly motivated both by the discovery that his deceased father led a secret homosexual life and by struggles with his own sexuali~ Humphreys decided to study men who seek sex in public toilets, or "tearooms." Though Humphreys claimed he was a "watch queen," or a voyeur who acted as a lookout, many suspect he was a more direct participant. Humphreys recorded the license plate numbers of more than 100 men he observed having sex - mainly fellatio - in the bathrooms of a city park, used these to track down their addresses, and later visited their homes in disguise, posing as a public health interviewer. ~ne subjects never knew they were part of a study, much less gave their consent. 14 the STAR Humphreys’ Ph.D. dissertation, published as Tearoom Trade in !970, detailed the steps involved in the homosexual public sex ritual - positioning, signaling, maneuvering, contracting, foreplay, and the payoff- as well as the intricate back-and-forth as men gauged one another’s interest. As such, he concluded, it was highly unlikely that an unwitting straight man would be molested or pestered for sex. Though the men went to great lengths to avoid both arrest arid violence from uninterested heterosexuals, police used the cruising code for entrapment. "W-hen a homosexual takes a seat in the adjacent commode and starts tapping his foot, the decoy will tap back," Humphreys wrote. Humphreys found that just over half the men he studied were married, 38 percent did not consider themselves either homosexual or bisexual, and only !4 percent were openly gay. They came from diverse races and socioeconomic classes and were generally similar to "normal" heterosexual men, except that the cruisers tended to be politica~y and socially conservative pillars of their community. "In donning the breastplate of righteousness," Humphreys wrote, "the covert deviant assumes a protective shield of superpropriety." Humphreys’ dissertation caused an immediate furor. ~Pne university chancellor sought to have his degree revoked for abetting felonies, sociology colleaDles criticized his dishonest research methods, and some gay activists regarded the study as an embarrassment - though it shored up the argument that since homosexual cruisers bothered no one else, bathroom busts were a waste of resources. Nevertheless, _Tearoom Trade won the prestigious C. Wright Mills award from the Society for the Study of Social Problems. In 1972, Humphreys was hired as a professor of sociology and criminal justice at Pitzer College in Claremont, Calif. - a contract he negotiated from a jail cell where he was serving time for invading a draft board office and smashing a portrait of Richard Nixon. He came out publicly at the 1974 annual meeting of the American Sociological Association as part of a panel discussion in which he also outed Edward Sagarin (who had written the groundbrea~ng Tlxe Homosexual in ka~aerica under the name Donald Webster CoW in 1951, but had since grown critica! of the gay movement). Humphreys went on to co-found the Sociologists’ Gay (now LGBT) Caucus. By the mid- !970s, Humphreys’ scholarly productivity had declined, and he began to shirk his academic responsibilities. In 1980, he left his wife, moved in with a male protege, started a private counseling practice, and became increasingly involved with the Los Angeles gay community. In his later years, he returned to the ministry, serving people with AIDS. A heavy smoker, he died of lung cancer at the age of 58. The ethics of Humphreys’ study are still widely debated. Along with other questionable research in various fields, it helped usher in strong informed consent requirements and institutional review boards to protect research participants. But his work has undergone reconsideration in recent years. None of his subjects were actually harmed (Humphreys kept their information under lock and key), and some commentators have suggested that much of the initial furor was motivated more by distaste for the topic than true concern for the subjects. Further, information about public sex cultures proved invaluable in devising AIDS prevention strategies, and partidpantobserver research with an advocacy" angle became more acceptable. Almost four decades after its publication, Tearoom Trade remains the definitive guide to homosexual toilet sex. Despite a much larger GLBT community, many more venues for meeting, and pervasive sex on the Internet, anonymous sex in public places shows no sign of dissipating among gay or non-gay-identified men. For further reading: Galliher, John, W’ayne Brekhaus, and David Keys. 2004. Laud Humphreys: Prophet of Homosexuality and Sociology (University of Wisconsin). Horowitz, Irving. 2003. Tributes: Personal Reflections on a Century of Social Research (Transaction Publishers). Schacht, Steven. 2004. Moving Beyond the ControversT: Remembering the Many Contributions of Laud Humphreys to Sociology and the Study of Sexuality. International Journal o-fSociolo{~y and Social Policy (Vol. 24; special issue on Humpnreys). ~w.ozarksstar.com �A briefhiSlory ofthe grape Pinot Noir comes from all over world. It’s grown in many coun including: France, Argent Austria (called burgunder), (Sp&tburgunder), (Pinot Nero Zealand, "Dole" when the United States, gundac). Pinot Noir is a difficult with. The plant is A parent plant can wildly different ~erry size ar even flavor. Cabernet I genetically individual clones Noir has www.ozarksstar.corn inot Noirgoes l~hrough a range of langes as it matures. A young wine will fruity characteristics including: raspberry and strawberry. it ages earthiness, smoke Chardonnay in sparIon in Cal 4. Jayer-Glf Hautes Cot Burgundy 5. Etude Carneros ’05 California 6 Raptor Ridge Willamette Valley ’05 0~egon And as always, I say go to your favorite the STAR 15 �On Saturday night November I0 & Cat Stevens. Of course I heard Isreali folk music when I was at Temple, Tulsans "W~II have an opportunity to hear one of America’s greatest songrcesses, a remalkable artist with her own eclectic brand of modern folk music with her own unique twist. Born in Greenwich, Connecticut and growing up as a talented prodigy, she studied at the American School of Ballet, went on to earn a drama degree at Stanford Universi~ founded her own MPress Record label, racked up a repertoire of discography, and has even written & performed nasionally known TV commerai£s. She has toured extensively in both the United States and Europe. Described by Judy Collins as great glfx...an incredible talent and beauty," the shares her thoughts, hopes and aspirations with us. STAR: Glad to have you with us, we’re delighted you’re coming m Oklahoma. Have you been here before? MS SAGE: I have, I played there a couple of years ago at your Tulsa Pride Festival. STAR: How would you describe your unique brand of music? MS. SAGE: I would tend to call my music arc-pop, which kind of btingr in some of the pop music that I listened to growing up from the 50s, 60s and 70s and some of the classical music I heard as a ballerina. STAR: As a record coflector myself I was intrigaed with some of the music that influenced you growing up, like the records your parents had of Broadway shows, the Beades ¯nd the do-wop artists of the 60s. MS. SAGE; Certainly the Beades, a lot of classical music, and Broadway musicals. In the 70s a best friend tttrned me on to a lot of folk ardsts like Carole King, James Taylor 1 6 the STAR STAR: Did the music you hear at your synagogue have a big influence on your style? MS.SAGE: Mosdy the Temple music made me love to sing. Tae cultural aspects of tynagugue exposed me to a lot of music, a lot of minor keys & beautifid melodies, another area that showed me how music can bring people together. MS.SAGE: Well, I was always into music, sounding music out on the piano by ear when I was about 2 ½ years old. Actually the first Broadly show I saw was Ok~homa, and when I gut home I would try to play the score by ear. I gut into dance, which was a good part of my muaiol education a~ well. STAR: You had written and performed for some nationally known TV commercials. What are some that we might remember? MS. SAGE: I did one for Gillette, ~nd another one for Cwstal L 7 or 8 years ~ inside you, takes you away, Crystal Light, 5 different STAR: I love it! What influences your music most of nil today? �SPINNAKER CRAB CAKES Ingredients: 1 pinch white pepper a bowl with crab meat may<:~rt~i~ eggs, chives and season- low heat. Slowly now or they WJI! ~l to bum. Ser~e with a side of mayonnaise into which a few dl~p~ of fresh lemon juice and �TRAVE L by Donald Pite and Ray Williams SAN FRANCISCO AND "THE CASTRO" ~e have just returned froio the beauttfial "City by the Bay~ and it is tr~y as wonderful, exciting alld lnagl~ificellt as ever. For some strange re~.son it kad been 6 years shace we were last there and we used to go once a year, but we got involved with othes places to visit instead, but we were so happy to visit San Frmlcisco again. \Ve find it am~iog how many gays around the country have never been to gan Francisco so we will start of by saying that Saa Frmacisco is the city ~uxd "]he Castro" is the gay district in Sm~ Frmacisco which is filled with lots of great restaurants, shops and of course plenty of bars. "!bns of bars so whatever you ~re into you will be sure to find a bar just for you! "The Cusrco" has been around for y~ a~d years. All up ~nd dco~n the Castro d~strict ~re gay ttags waving e,mrywhere ~d the largest one is just as you step offthe pubic transportation system and you are laced with the largest gay ttag that we ins and a public email statina, available 2417. And in addition you have access to their refrigerator and mlcro-wave. They care about their guests! Just wish that more B and B’s were as considerate and caring. Why ~xor stay where you are partying? Be sure ~nd check out both of these B and B’s before making a trip to San Francisco. Shopping for gifts, clothing, decorating items or even groceries are all within a couple bIoch area of the Castro. T~e res~aura~*rs axe a~ individu.tlly owned and off&s a wide ~ango of menus. A~xd of course by s tayla~g at the Village House you ~e right i~ tlm middle of everyth~g ~d can w~kk everywhe~[ and a wondert~ c~mmunity room located t~ght at the front which overlooks the mreet where you c~n watch hmtdreds of gays w~k b?; 18 the STAR ~en there is San Francisco i~sel£ What a beaurifu[ dty and of art work, museums, down,town shopping on Union Squaxe. Chinatown is just a few bhicl~ from downtown and you certainly don’t want to miss the shopping and food there, From downtown take one of the cable cars to Fisherman’s Wharf alld Pier 39 to see all die ��The gay section of Hippie Hollow Park is a favorite Austin kangout on weekend afternoons. (Photo by Andrew Collins) in this part of the dty), and the H~apton Irm and Suites, an attractive, reasonably priced mid-rise opened a few years ago. Across the river, within walking distance of downtown, you’ll find another excellent todging base, the retro-trendy South Congress district, home to the devedy restored Austin Motel. Many rooms at dais quirky slice of ’50s-style Americana have tile floors, kitchenet tes, Jacuzai rubs, and kidney shaped patios. There’s an on-site Mexican restaurant, El Sol y La Luna, that turns out fiery, kich-ass huevos rancheros and carne asada. A few blocks away, the swankier Hotel San Jose is another old motor court that’s been given a postmodern, mlnlmalist makeover. The spacious courtyard suites are downright posh (and pricey), but a simpler though soil snazzy room with a shared bath runs for under $100 nighd)~ Entertain g~ests in the hotel’s scene-y iounga-cum-coffechouse. OI~ Friday, your first night in town, decompress ~tfter your flight or car ride with a rel~xh~g, informal meal at one of the city’s well-regarded purveyors of Tex-Mex, such as Guero’s or Manuel’s. A former feed store that’s now a fabulous taqueria, Guero’s serves some of the best Mexic~m f~re in central Texas - flora standard but ar tl~ly seasoned tamales to more innovative creations like marinated grilled pork on a corn tortilla with onions, cilantro, mad fresh pineapple. Fancier than most oFabe Mexican testaments in town, M~nuel’s is a sleek, deco-inspired space i~ the Warehouse District with a sassy little bar in back. Try some of the more innovative creations, fike corn-battered colossal thdmp with a poblano-chile c~rn, or pork enchiladas in a velvety mole sauce. Austin, Texas Fast-growing Aastin has been one of America’s most talked about cities over the past decade, having not o~ly increased its population by nearly 50 percent but also solidified its [eputation as an ultracool place ro live and visit. The fact that Austin is oppressively hot for a few months each summer is about its only maior negative. A~ auctman approaches, however, Austin cools off again ~nd this means the city’s myd~ad cafes, lounges, music dubs, and gay hangouts sizzle with activit~ If yoffve been to this lefr leaning - especially by Texas standards - city before, say five or more yeaxs ago, you may have trouble recoguiaing it. The downtown landscape has been transformed by recendy constructed office and hotel towers, and a fantastic new air port makes traveling here a breeze. Here’s a recipe for enjoying the perfect three-day weekend in this upbeat, welcoming metropolis. Consider staying in the forty downtown Warehouse District, with its bounty of both gay and gay-friendly bars as wdl as hip restau rants and offbeat boutiques. Worthy recommendatiorts include the most glamorous hotd in town, the Intercontinental Stephen E Austin. an opulent 16-stoty beauty with marne baths, 1920s era furnishings, mad twice-daily maid service. Perfectly appealing yet less pricey downtown alternatives include the Radisson Town Lake, whgse rooms face the scenic Colorado River (known as Tow~ Lake 20 the STAR Al~er your meal. it’s time to check out at least a couple of Austin’s inviting gay bars - it’s a topsy-turvy scene in these parts, with one or two bars coming and going seemingly every year. But you can consistendy count on there being roughly a half dozen gay bars downtown, mosdy concentrated in the Warehouse Distticr. Worthwhile options on Fridays include the relatively new Rain on 4th, which opened in the Warehouse District in 2006, and has a kively deck out back, a cozy bifliards bar up front, and a mldssize dance b~r iu file middle; and Chadie’s, the city’s oldest gay bar, which fies in the shadows of the state capitol building. Go-go boys perform inside, ~nd there’s a spacious deck in back. If you’re looking to keep it mellow your first night, have an ~er-dlnner cocktail, fruit smoothie, or espresso drink at the stylJth Halcyon Coffeehouse and Lounge, a hlpster-i~fested, gay friendly bengout across the street from Rain on Rise a~*d shine on Saturday morning with breakfast at one of Austin’s more eccentric nosh pits, Magnolia Crate, which has branches along South Congress Avenue ~aad also just west of downtown on Lake Austin Boulevard. The delicious, filling breakfast specialties range from the "Solar Landscape" (seasoned grilled potatoes, red onions, and ham topped with queso ~nd chipotle sauce) to hefty gingerbread pancakes bursting with blueber ties. Very dose to the South Congress neighborhood, you can take to the outdoors and work offsome calories with a stroll through beautiful 350-acre Zilber Park, a fine spot to tan your hide on sunny days. The park’s spting-fed Barton Springs Pool, a popular and enormous swimming hule, remains an invigorating 68 degrees year-round, so bring along a swimsuit if the weather’s nice. �Austin’s best outdoor attraction, however, is Hippie Hollow Park, which hugs the shores of stunning Lake Travis, about a 30-minute drive west of town. This is the region’s only official clothing-optional sunbathing spot. The gay section, which draws substantial crowds on just about any day with temperatures above 65 degrees, lies at the very end of the pathway that leads from the parking lot. On weekend afternoons you’ll often see pleasure boats packed with cute guys docked just offshore. Break for refreshments with a meal at the Oasis, a massive outdoor compound set high on a bluff overlooking the lake and Hippie Hollow - it’s a short drive from the park. The mediocre Mexican food at Oasis won’t win any culinary awards, but the views and the potent margaritas make this a winner. On your way back into town, treat yourself to some truly heavenly ice cream at Amy’s, a shrine to fattening dairy treats. Mexican vanilla, pumpkin cheesecake, and honeyed brandy are a few poptflar flavors at this local chain with outposts in several handy locations, induding South Congress Avenue and 6th Street downtown. If you still have a litde time left, stroll among the cool antiques, homefurnishings, and second-hand clothing shops a!ong South Congress Avenue and also in the Warehouse District. Spend your final afternoon in town exploring the leafy 357-acre campus of the University of Texas, whose attractions include the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library and Museum and the Texas Memorial Museum, which has exhibits on state history and local flora and fauna. UT’s Blanton Museum of Art is well-regarded for its collections of Renaissance paintings as well as modern Latin American art. Guadalupe Street, known along its border with LIT as "the Drag," is a haven of alternative culture as well as the place to shop for locally made arts and crafts, Longhorn memorabilia, and other offbeat goods. On your final night in Austin, you might go all out with a highticket dinner at one of the city’s most sophisticated restaurants, such as dark and sexy Jeffrey’s, which has the polish of a big-city supper dub and a clientele that ranges from celebs to politicos. The lamb T-bone with spinach-parmesan souffle and onion-mint confit is a typically sublime dish. Don’t miss the white-chocolate parfait with brandied cherries and pistachios i~or dessert - a memorable ending to a great Austin weekend. Saturday-night dinner options are many. Stick with the Warehouse District for the best people-watching, plus proximity to gay nightlife. Excellent dining bets include Kenichi, a mod, happening place where pretty young things hobnob over superbly rendered Japanese cuisine. At nearby Malaga, you can savor plate after plate of terrific tapas, such as braised beef short ribs in Riojo vdne. It’s a dramatic space with tall brick walls and marble tables, and there’s Latin music most nights. Saturday is Austin’s big night for gay revelry. Rain on 4th and Charlie’s remain popular options, but this is also the best night to check out Rain’s neighbor, Oilcan Harry’s, which has been a £xture in the city for years. This always-packed stand-and-model bar attracts a hot collegiate crowd. There are a couple of bar areas, a patio in back, and a good (loud) sound system serving the tiny but pulsing dance floor. Austin’s many queer country-western fans head to the nearby Rainbow Cattle Co., where they two-step and line-dance below a sea of wagon wheels and Wild West artifacts. If you’re into leather, head to the Chain Drive, which cultivates a bearish and rugged ambience. The city also has dozens of clubs and lounges hosting bands and singers of just about every ilk, making Austin one of the nation’s top cities for live music. Just stroll through the Warehouse District, especially along East 6th Street, and listen for the sounds of music to your liking. In Austin, nobody cares much about looks, labels, and agendas - you’ll be made to feel welcome most anywhere. Sunday morning offers a fresh opportunity to sample one of Austin’s great brunch or lunch spots - depending on how late you sleep in. A favorite of the gay community, Katz Dell is renowned for its half-pound sandwiches - the grilled three-cheese with tomatoes is especially good. Another enjoyable option is the South Congress Cafe, a handsome space known for such toothsome brunch treats as duck-and-oyster gumbo, and a luscious carrot cake French toast. ~,~twv.ozarksstar, com 72% of gays and lesbians prefer to buy from companies that advertise to them directly. (Source: Harris/Witeck-Combs) Brand loyal, 89% of gays and lesbians are highly likely to seek out brands that advertise to them; the majority are willing to pay a premium for quality products and services. (Source: Simmons) the STAR 21 �by Donald Pile & Ray Williams Featuring Cuisine From Coast to Coast lae Spinnaker Restaurant, On San Francisco Bay The Spinnaker Restaurant in downtown Sausalito, California is one of our very favorite restaurants in the country. We have dined there many times over the years and it just keeps getting better and better. Chef Phil Collins has been there since 1982 and Jeff Scharosch the General Manager has been there since 1994. q-hey do a remarkable job and it shows! "l-he Spinnaker Restaurant has panoramic views of the Sausalito waterfront, San Francisco skyline, Angel Island, Belvedere, Alcatraz, & the Bay Bridge. Floor to ceiling glass walls enable guests the chance to enjoy the scenery from every angle in the dining room, which is built on piers directly over the water. The view is unrivaled and is the best in the San Francisco Bay Area. Located in beautiful historic Sausalito, The Spinnaker is just a short drive from the Golden Gate Bridge. The stunning view is only surpassed by our extensive menu, featuring the freshest seafood & finest ingredients. You can also take the Ferry or bus service to Sausalito and it is just a 5 minute walk from either terminals to the restaurant. For over 47 years they have been treating guests to the finest in seafood and pasta. q-hey are open everyday from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Their menus offers something for everyone, with fresh seafood, pasta, steak, chicken, & vegetarian options. Seafood highlights include the Mixed Seafood Grill, Spinnaker Paella, Pacific Mahi Saut~ 22 the STAR with Crab & Brie, Grilled Lobster Tail, & Petrale Filet with a Crouton & Macadamia nut crust. Our pasta selections include Penne with Grilled Chicken, Four-Cheese Ravioli with Walnut Alfredo or Pesto Sauce, & Fettuccini with Crab. They also offer Petite New York Steak or Filet Mignon with Cabernet Bordelaise, Piquant Chicken Breasts Saute, & Braised Chicken Breasts in a Champagne reduction. Vegetarians can choose from an array of salads, Pasta Primavera, Bruschetta, Cheese Quesadilla, or Baked Brie with Roast Garlic. If you wish to dine for lunch, they also offer many delighttiff sandwiches including the Crab, Shrimp & Avocado Club, Club House Sandwich, & The Spinnaker Hamburger. For those with a sweet tooth, their desserts will surely hit the spot. Cr~me Brule, Berry Trifle, Warm Apple Tart with Vanilla Bean Gelato, & Hot Fudge Sundae axe just a few of their sinful selections. They also have a huge wine selection and banquet facilities are available for special events and parties. Valet parking is available. Be sure and check their website at: www.thespinnaker.com No trip to San Francisco would be complete without dining at Spinnaker’s! www.ozarksstar.corn �A Family Affair Lesbian Notions, an interview with Jennifer Chrisle~ executive director ofthe Family Equality Council No good deed goes unpunished. That is certainly the case for Michael Gregg Valdez and Michael Oberg, who took in the four young children of Valdez’s niece. The niece asked the couple to take care of her children while she dealt with some drug-related criminal matters. Already parenting Valdez’s biological daughter, Michael and Gregg, as Valdez in known, are more than happy to provide a stable, loving home until the children’s mother is ready to do the same. The problem is they live in Utah, where two unmarried people cohabitating cannot serve as foster or adoptive parents. The state’s Division of Children and Family Services asked the courts to take the children away from the two men so they could be placed in foster homes more to the state’s liking - married, heterosexual households. Instead of handing custody to the state, the court took custody of the kids and then turned around and granted Gregg temporary custody. For now, the four will stay together. This is just the type of situation that fuels the passion of Jennifer Chrisler, the executive director of the Family Equality Council. You may have knmvn the organization as Family Pride - the name was recently changed to reflect their purpose of achieving family equality for all loving families. "Mike and Gregg’s willingness to open their homes and hearts highlights ~vhat is best about families - love, commitment, strength, and support," Chrisler told me recently. "Utah’s law regarding placement of foster care children is not good public policy, nor is it good for children." Ballot initiatives banning gay adoption and fostering may well raise their ugly heads in the 2008 presidential race - although when that tactic was used in 2004, it didn’t gain much traction. However, according to Chrisler, Arkansas is likely to mount a ballot initiative that in the long run will just hurt kids in need of loving homes. www.ozarksstar.com And in Texas, the state is proposing spending close to $3 million to investigate current foster parents. If any of the parents are found to be LGBT, the kids will be yanked from the homes. Chrisler has been working to protect those kids and their LGBT families since Apri! of 2005, when she came to the Council, then located in Washington, D.C., after serving as a fundraising consultant for political campaigns and LGBT organizations in Massachusetts. She and her spouse, Cheryl Jacques (yes, the same Cheryl Jacques who helmed the Human Rights Campaign for a brief and shining moment) recently moved Remember the Easter Egg Roll at the White House, where LGBT families wore rainbow leis and received national media attention? That was thanks to FEC. back to the Bay State with their 5-year-old fraternal twins, Tim and Tom. The organization moved with them, and is now headquartered in Boston. ’Tm a mother. I’m raising my kids in a world where our families don’t have what they need to keep each other strong and protected," she noted. "Kids spend a lot of time explaining who their families are, and I’d like that to stop." In the little more than two years that Chrisler has been at FEC, she has transformed the organization into a political powerhouse. Remember the Easter Egg Roll at the White House, where LGBT families wore rainbow leis and received national media attention? That was thanks to FEC. When James Dobson from Focus on the Family wrote a hatefiA op-ed in _Time Magazine_ about Mary Cheney’s pregnancy, FEC pressured the conservative weekly to run a counterpoint piece entitled "Two Mommies or Two Daddies Will Do Fine, Thanks," authored by Chrisler. The piece focused on the inequity of Virginia state law - where Cheney and her partner, Heather Poe, live with their son - and how Poe is without any legal parental rights. "Some of the pressing issues we face are marriage equality and uniform parenting laws," said Chrisler. "We need laws that recognize the complicated and creative ways our families are created. Issues such as surrogacy, sperm donors, and divorce create legal complications. It would be nice to have a uniform law to protect our families." A community organizer at heart, Chrisler understands that she can’t be the only one out there speaking on behalf of family equality. Through OUTspoken Families, the organization’s national speakers bureau, more than 1,000 people in 39 states, D.C., one U.S. territory, and three foreign countries have been trained to speak out on family equality issues. "We’re training people to be advocates for themselves, their families, friends, and people they care about at every level of their life, from responding to a comment in an elevator to speaking to the PTA," said Chrisler. "We have a lot of people raising the issue of family equality at lots of different levels...we’re working to change the hearts and minds of straight people we come into contact with." Changing those hearts and minds means changing the way LGBT families live. Many of us no longer have to live in the shadows, afraid that someone will find out that our kids have two mommies or two daddies. But for those who do, FEC and Chrisler work to change laws, make schools safer, and create a national LGBT family movement that can no longer be ignored. The STAR 23 �Diversityl~ ��calls himself GUILT. Your coworkers needle you about missing the retirement party for Nallely in the claims department. The decision is dear. You can always hit the weights tomorrow at the gym. Thursday dawns on you and what knave could be lurking to derail your plans today? Out of the bushes and over the grassy knoll are fired two shots. They are in the form of two tickets to that sold-out Erasure concert. No way! Get out! Andy Bell is in town and you’ve got your daws on some front row seats. You know every song and every lyric. That arm and chest workout can be shelved until tomorrow! ~ho are your greatest enemies? Luke Skywalker batded the respiratory challenged scoundrel Darth Vader. Superman played chess games with the Mensa maniac Lex Luthor. Batman and Robin were vexed with the likes of the Joker when they weren’t exploring the depths of their’batcaves. You and I have much worse enemies to ward off. These foes rear their ugly heads daily and seek to divert us from our health and fitness goals. The Bangles rendition of Manic Monday starts us heading through a sea of procrastination and fitness evasion. There is the Monday happy hour and 2-4-1 drinks the rest of the night at your favorite watering hole. This double headed monster lures you from your daily workout with promises of sweet intoxication and the aroma of tangy mouth-watering boneless buffalo wings. This enemy gets extra fire power during October, November, and December ~vith Monday night football. Resistance is futile. Tuesday night should be your cardiovascular workout on the elliptical machine. However, that new television lineup on NBC isn’t going to watch itself. It took scores of actors, directors, producers, grips, and cameramen many weeks to compile "Must See TV". You could just TIVO it all and catch up some other night. You would then be terrifyingly ignorant around the water cooler the next morning. That’s too dangerous to chance. Bad guys win again! It’s hump day and you’ll get back on that fitness wagon that you fell off of earlier in the week. I smell a conjunction though. BUT.... the guy in shipping and receiving is requesting your attendance at his birthday bonanza at the Hoo-Ha Lounge. The enemy here 26 the STAR What a concert! You have a hoarse voice but at least it’s Friday. Oh no! It’s Friday! There’s no way you can hit the gym tonight. Everybody who’s anybody will be at that new dub in downtown. Those hot DJ’s from KGAY will be handing out free T-shirts and selling $1 shooters for charity. You have all weekend offwork and you can surely make up for missed workout time then. After all Scarlet, tomorrow is another day. Quotable Quotes Uganda’s leading Muslim cleric has proposed to President Yoweri Museveni that gays be rounded up and marooned on an island in Lake Victoria unti! they die. Sheikh Ramathan Shaban Mubajje told reporters of his plan following a much publicized meeting with Museveni. "I asked President Museveni to get us an island on Lake Victoria and we take these homosexuals and they die out there," Mubajje told a news conference. "If they die there then we shall have no more homosexuals in the country." Saturday brings bright skies and temperatures in the low 90’s. The phone rings and it’s the boys. They’re heading for the lake with the boat, sunscreen, and a cooler stocked full of barley pops. There is no way you can miss this. I know you’ve said it before. But this has just been an unusual week. You really will get back on track soon. Right? Sunday comes and you can probably write your own defeat against an evil enemy. It doesn’t have to be this way. Stay strong against the dark side. With some discipline and some proper planning, you can keep a workout routine. Know what is important and stay focused. Tomorrow is always the busiest day of the year. Don’t let it be that way. Take charge today! ~is column is brought to you by that guy who likes to stomp his feet in bathroom stalls JUST for attention. That guy is Ron Blake and he can be reached at www.goblakefirness.com. Creating Community for People iving with H P4iAt DS A 501 c (3) Non Profit Organization Our House, Too offers a vadety of activities for people who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HIV+ and or IMng with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves. We invite anyone who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail hardsmmjr@yahoo.com. www.ozarksstar.com �R~chad Sage continued: Log Cabin Ref)ublicans continued: MS. SAGE: So very many independent artists actually, because the bulk of my listening time is spent evaluating and listening to music independent artists are sending me at my record label, MPress Records. Oldahomds LCR is one of the newest organizations in OkAahoma dedicated to promoting gay rights. During the past three years it has been active and present at most gay public events, including gay pride celebrations in Tulsa, Oklahoma City and McAAester. ’,We do compilations which benefit charity called New Arrivals, we’ve released 2 so far and are working on a third. It’s a great opportunity to hear all kinds of independent music, spanning the range of folk, rock, alternative pop. I think that more inspires than influences me. I try to find my own voice continually, which I have found is a never ending process. As far as mainstream artists I always look forward to the next record from Fiona Apple, and Rufus Wainwright is one of my very favorite artists. I also like Coldplay, U2, and I still pull out my Carole King records, am I’m looking forward to an upcoming new Mark Cohn album. STAR: What kinds of audiences do you mainly appeal to now? MS. SAGE: Actually there are several, that’s one of the fun things of starting out at a young age. There is the folk world, the alternative college listeners xvhich are ever changing, a younger set and also those in their 40s 50s and beyond from the coffeehouse scene. I love to play at Pride festivals every summer, about 10 or 15 every year. Of course the GLBT community is a wonderfid and supportive audience. As a matter of fact, we’re about to pul! into Provincetown where we will be playing a gig for Women’s Week. STAR: ~his tour promotes your newest CD The Blistering Sun, what inspired the title? MS.SAGE: It’s a lyric from one of the songs of the album, "Surprise" which was written for my sister’s wedding years ago. It came out almost a year ago, and I’m almost ready to bring out another one in the spring of 2008 called Chandelier. The Blistering Sun is really about self-determination, coming to that place where you are true to yourself, a process and lesson that really never ends. ST/MR: Anything special you’d like to say to the music lovers of Tulsa? MS. SAGE: Just that I’m really excited to come back, it’s been quite a few years. I can’t wait-it’ll be fun! STAR-Looking forward to it, i’ll see you at the Bamboo Lounge Tulsa. www.ozarksstar.com "I believe the positive changes we need to make in America for gay rights can best be made when both major political parties are confronted with the reality of its gay members," O’Herin said. "This is espedally true of the Republican Party." For further details contact O’Herin at OKLOGCABIN@aol.com, or call 405-9450368. (IGBO) Continued: hotel. Holiday Inn will also host the registration suite, hospitality suite, many social events and a display of panels of the AIDS quilt. The tournament activities will be held at Heritage Lanes at 122nd & Penn and Windsor Lanes at NW 23rd & Meridian. Single and doubles bowling events will be held at Heritage Lanes and the team and Scratch Masters events will be held at Windsor Lanes. Management and staff at both centers are excited about hosting this special event. The weekend will wrap up with a gala awards ceremony to be held in the Sam Noble Special Events Center inside the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum on Sunday evening. This remarkable room will host a catered meal, special presentations by the IGBO Board of Directors, rousing entertainment by Lyric Theatre and the announcement of the winners of the tournament. The tournament will coincide directly with the state of Oklahoma’s Centennial cdebration. We hope our guests will take time to enjoy the city as it steps into its second century of growth and excitement. Please extend a hearty Oklahoma welcome to our guests as they visit our city for this special event! More information about IGBO can be found at www.igbo.org. More information about IGBO Mid-Year 2007 in Oklahoma City can be found at www.igbomy2007.org. MCC Jopt r , Ce eBrates 10th Anniversary JOPLIN, MO (P/R) __Spirit of Christ MCC cdebrates ten year of service to the greater Joplin, MO area. This church was started in 1996 in the home of our pastor, Rev. Steve Urie. During the last ten years we have survived in a community where our own GLBT people said we would not survive. We have fed hundreds for the holidays, work closely with our local office of AIDS Project of the Ozarks, have been a sanctuary for students dismissed for being GLBT, and have a food program available for everyone. Just this year Spirit of Christ MCC joined with MCC of the Living Spring to support the Domestic Partnership Registry in Eureka Springs, AR. We continue our concert series with such talented artists as Marsha Stevens, Terry Lee Ousley~ Shawn Thomas and Sam Sampson. During our celebration Marsha Stevens, Sam Sampson, Rev. Carolyn Mobley from Tulsa, Rev Kurt Krieger from Kansas City and friends from Eureka Springs, AR were all present. We are a member church of MCC Churches. As a church made up of people from all walks of life, all economic classes, every gender, and a wide variety of ethnic and religious backgrounds. This rich heritage is our greatest blessing, because it brings the whole rainbow of Gods creation together under the same roof. It also presents our greatest challenge as we always strive to reflect this rich diversity in our ministry, programs and services. Spirit of Christ MCC has spent ten years focusing on the needs of our community through acts of kindness while standing for the justice that should be available to all people. Our church is open to all people and while celebrating the traditional church we recognize our God is not in a box. That realization is what frees us and all who worship with us. Find an MCC in your area: in Eureka Springs, AR visit MCC of the Living Spring at 17 Elk Street Sundays at 6PM; in Tulsa, OK visit MCC United at 1623 Maplewood Sundays at 11AM; in Kansas City, MO visit Spirit of Hope MCC at 3801 Wyandotte Sundays at 10:15AM and in Joplin, MO visit Spirit of Christ MCC at 2902 E 20th Street Saturdays at 10:00 AM. the STAR 27 �Venus enters her own sign, Libra, helping us all to be more accommodating, artistic, and gracious. And more manipulative? Venus may not be to blame on her own. The Sun is in Scorpio squaring Neptune, inflating our desires and blurring boundaries. ARIES (March 20 -April 19): Teamwork comes more easily now, so work on those skills! Erotic tension between you and a good friend needs expression and clarification. Acting on it could be a mistake, but maybe.not. Discussing it is necessary, and probably quite sufficient. TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): Explore new ways to play and create with others, and find satisfaction there for now. Work is likely to be frustrated by confusion with close associates. Rethinking your goals could help. Express feelings and hunches clearly, and check them out before acting on them. SAGITTARJUS (November 22 - December 20): This is the time to curry favor with your superiors. Avoid gossip and subterfuge. Simply refuse to listen or to participate. As juicy as the dish may be, it will only get you into trouble. CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19): Forget the "tall, dark stranger." Flirt instead with the foreign cutie with dimples - you’ll be luckier in international affairs. But you’re less lucky now with finances. See where those sails need trimming, but wait another week to readjust plans. AQUARIUS (January 20 o February 18): Be very careful who you flirt with. You could seduce almost anyone you like, but you may find your erotic adventures complicating your professional life. At least be very clear about who you are and what you want to do. PISCES (February 19 - Niarch 19): Falling in love comes too easily to you, but ride that warm current now, either basking in the adoration of your partner, or enjoying an amour du jour. Foreign mystical philosophies have a special appeal; follow your instincts, and you may gain terrific insights. GEMINI (May 21 - June 20): Mend fences with family members or roommates. Be _very_ careful about safe sex! The most exotic and unusual bugs are looking for you. If there’s no spiritual fulfillment in your work, find a way to work it into your exercise. (Yoga? Haikido?) CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Your seductive powers are now at their height. You are perhaps a little too sexy and playful, and that could get you into trouble. But just as you can talk your way into anything now, you can almost always talk your way out, too. LEO (July 23 - August 22): Domestic disputes are nearly inevitable now. A drink or a shopping escapade seems to be the easiest way to ameliorate the problem - but drinking only makes it worse, and shopping is just a diversion. Still, a diversion could help! METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES Rev Steve T. Urie Spirit of Christ MCC VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Some advice from your partner or another close friend could help you to improve your looks or to feel better about yourself. Appearances count, but go deeper and discuss health issues that you normally wouldn’t. 2902 E 20th Street Joplin, MO 64804 417-529-8480 Worship Saturdays at t0:00 AM Community Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): Enjoy quiet, meditative music and art. A private retreat will give you room to explore your own aesthetics without being influenced by others. Go to a museum or show on your own, and never mind what others like. MCC of the Living Spring SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): Your social charms are strong now, but what you want for others may not be what they care for. Explaining your goals may come off a bit too strong, so first ask others what they want. 28 the STAR 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays at 6:00 PM Have a God filled and BleSSed Day! www.ozarksstar.com �DOWNTOWN PLAZA of TULSA 17 West 7th Street Tulsa, OK 918-585-5998 www.downtownplazat ulsa.com HABANA INN 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-528-2221 www.habanainn.com KELLY KIRBY, CPA 4815 S. HARVARD, SUITE 424 Tulsa, OK * 918-747-5466 Certified Public Accountant DREXEL ONTHE PARKAPTS. 3041NW41ST Oklahoma City, OK 405-946-0588 BRADY THEATER 105 W Brady Tulsa, OK 918-582-7339 www.bradytheater.com CLUB MAJESTIC 124 N. BOSTON Tulsa, OK 918-584-9494 www.dubmajestictulsa.com FINISHLINE 2~00 NW 39TH EXPRESS\VAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE COPA 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE LEDO 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com DIVERSITY CHRISTIAN CNTR 211 S. Garnett Tulsa, OK 74128 www.realacceptance.com OUR HOUSE, TOO 203 N. Nogales Ave Tulsa, OK 74127 918-585-9552 CENTURY 21 GOLD CASTLE 3627 NW EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405-840-2106 www.c2 lgoldcastle.com HOPE TESTING CLINIC 3540 E. 31st Tulsa, OK 800-535-2437 Oklahoma’s HIV/STD Hodine CHUCK BRECKENRIDGE Keller Williams Realty Tulsa, OK 918-706-1887 SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC 2902 E. 20TH STREET, Joplin, MO * 479-529-8480 Service Saturday 9:30 AM GAY BRADY HHGHTS-TUlsa New and Historic Homes for Sale and Rent For Info: www.gaybradyheightstulsa.com GUSHER’S RESTAURANT 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 Located inside Habana Inn ANGLES 2117 NW 39th St. Oklahoma City, OK www.anglesdub.com BAMBOO LOUNGE 7204 E. PINE Tulsa, OK 918-836-8700 www.bambooloungetulsa.com www.ozarksstar.com Want the STAR delivered to your home or business? 12 issues for $29.95 will be mailed in a sealed envelope the 1st of each month. Complete the form below and send with a check or moneyorder to: The STAR 5103 S. Sheridan Rd., #153 Tulsa, OK 74145 MCC of the LIVING SPRING 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays 6pm (Single Copies $3.00 per issue) NAME: NW ARKANSAS GLBT CENTER Bentonville/Rogers 888-391-9222 WWNVdNWAGLBTCC.ORG Address: City: Phone: DIVERSITY PRIDE EVENTS 479-253-2555 Eureka Springs, AR www.diversitypride.com Check enclosed Money Order Start Date: St: Zip:. �V/hether buying or selling I’ll work hard for you. t~ ~~sas GLBT Communi~- Center "Linking Together as One" For more information: 888-391-9222 V!W~.NWAGLBTCC.ORG 30 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �w~’~,’.ozarkssta r.co m the STAR 31 �Nov. 2 Event Center Special Guests 7 p.m. Jon Hoadley National Stonewal Democrats A1 McAffrey lim Roth Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Featuring Scott, Shannen Porter, DeFawna DeLay Kelly Moore, & Melody Michaels unforgettable evening drink & en~em $30 ~mnual Membership Admission ~-’~ Oklahoma Democrats "The LGBTStonewall Voice of the Democratic Party~ � Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data magazine Text Any textual data included in the document Happy Thanksgiving STATEHOOD DAY San Francisco & Austin, Texas West 7th Street (corner 7th & Bolder Ave) o Tulsa, Ok 74t t 9 o www.downtownplazatulsa~com Reservations: 918.585.5998 ® 800.585.5101 Where you can b YOU" 2 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 3 { LOCAL Real Men Fry Turkeys and International Gay Bowling hits OKC. Oklahoma’s Centennial Kicks off in our first Capitol, Guthrie. October 1930 (77 years ago last month) Sociologist Laud Humphreys is born in Chickasha, Oklahoma. Pinot Noir is one of the oldest vine grape varieties known. This grape has been cultivated in Burgundy since the 1st century AD. Rachael Sage Talks with the STAR before her performap,ce in Tulsa. Gay Travelers: San Francisco Out of Town: Austin, Texas Dining In or OUT Lesbian Notions, an interview with Jennifer Chrisler, executive director of the Family Equality Council. Introspection can lead you to better understand yourself and ultimately to achieve greater happiness. ON THE COVER: Deborah Harry & Rachael Sage 4 the STAR In the interview with Nick Post, the new owner of Angles, we incorrectly stated due to a typo that he had acquired the Finishline, Copa, Ledo and Gushers in 2007. It was actually 2000. We regret the error. STAR DISTRIBUTION: OKLAHOMA CITY * TULSA * LAWTON * MCALESTER * ENID * NEW ORLEANS * NORTH LITTLE RODK * FAYETTEVILLE * FT SMITH * EUREKA SPRINGS * HOT SPRINGS * BENTONVILLE * ROGERS * KANSAS CITY * SPRINGFIELD * JOPLIN * BRANSON AREA* WICHITA* PITTSBURG * JUNCTION CITY www.ozarksstar.com R÷a By Greg Steele With all the outing of gay penguins, sheep, dogs and other species, is there a possibility there are gay turkeys? How would you know if you were eating one of our own? I mean the poor critters are just herded into the slaughter pen, humanely killed, I presume, plucked and whisked off to Walmart. I for one will be asking the Walmart meat lady if my turkey was gay! I refuse to bake, fry, barbecue or boil a family member. We assume that all turkeys are hetero, and it’s OK to bake or fry ect., a homophobic hetero turkey, but what if your turkey was hetero and gay friendly? This outing of animals and now fowl is just not right. It raises so many questions and creates so many problems and it’s Thanksgiving for God’s sake. Where are the Fowl Rights people when you need them! Have a Great Holiday! INTERNATIONAL GAY BOWLING TOURNAMENT AND CONVENTION ROLLS INTO OKLAHOMA CITY OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (P/R) __ Oklahoma City wilt be hosting the International Gay Bowling Organization’s (IGBO) 2007 Mid-Year Tournament and Convention, November 7-12, 2007. This event will cap offtwo years of preparation by the OKClassic Bowling Association as it welcomes bmvlers from al! over the United States and Canada. IGBO is the world’s largest GLBT sports organization with over 170 member leagues and over 60 member tournaments. OKClassic has hosted one of IGBO’s largest and most-respected tournaments for over 16 years and has donated over $100,000 to local charities in the process. Oklahoma City hosted IGBO’s 1994 Annual Tournament and Convention. The convention activities will be held at The Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites on NW 63rd & Robinson. IGBO’s Board of Directors, Regional. Representatives, and league and tournament representatives from around the world will conduct various business meetings at the ......................................... Continuedpa~,e- 27 www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 5 rocre tior Uber AlOes OK~.AHOMA CITY, OK__ Who would have thought that the successful union of a spermatozoa and an ovum would be a taxpaying citizen’s certification of citizenship. ¯he highest court of the state of Maryland has recently joined New York and Washington state in ruling that because same-gendered people can’t procreate they can not be married in the same way that opposite-gendered people can. Reading between the lines it seems straight people who have the corresponding slot A and tab B are automatically entitled to the approximately 1,400 Federal and state benefits that accrue with state-sponsored marriage. I always thought that paying taxes made one a citizen. Odd, that even though I have no children, I’m still required to pay school taxes. Additionally, I pay a sales tax to help pay for municipal structures such as sports arenas that I will never use, my gasoline taxes are used to pave roads which I’ll never drive on, and my library taxes will pay for books which H1 never read. And now, at least in Maryland, New York and Washington-- I have to pony up with a wife and child in order to be a REAL citizen? Paying taxes isn’t enough? I’m glad these anti-gay judicial decisions are finally exposing the hypocrisy of our socalled civil society where the First Amendment defense of the separation of secular and sacred is being ignored and willfully convoluted in order to perpetuate the ideas of religious supremacy, the power of the penis, and the submissiveness of the vagina. Since when was being the father or mother of a child necessary to prove one’s citizenship? Is that really the case? Don’t we all know married straights who have never had biological children? Are their marriages in danger of being repudiated in those states that have ruled procreation as a necessary possibility for a complete marriage? Are childless marriages breaking the law? Doesn’t this suggestion smell strongly ofNazism and other totalitarian creeds such as one-child China? AS our American society devolves into a seriously reality-adverse Gulag of religiously based proscriptions against equality, and as the "demos" is removed from Democracy and replaced with "theos", I’ve written a proposed bill that someone like Trent "gays have Heptomania" Lott, Larry ’Tm not gay" Craig, David "diaper" Vitter, or Jim "no gays in my family" Inhofe wil! take up on the floor of Congress. IfI were a God-fearing, Bible-banging GOP straight man truly interested in the precepts of the great Creator who knows all things and requires the institution of marriage to be solely and soulfully about procreation I would legislate for the fol!owing policy to be instituted. A provisional license would be issued following a medical examination to determine the gender and procreative viability of the man and woman applying. Should one applicant fai! this examination in either part no license from the state would be allowed. In addition the failing partner would be required to register on a publicly available website to insure against fraud and redundancy. Opposite gendered married couples that do not procreate vcithin three years of their marriage will have that marriage annulled. If a procreative impediment, other than self-induced conditions, develops after the issuance of the provisional license as ~vell as after the issuance of the final license, the marriage would be allowed to continue. Should there be a stillbirth or death within one year of the birth of a living child, an extension of one year would allowed for each subsequent stillbirth or early death. Such extensions would continue until the natural menopausal advancement occurs with the woman. The man is considered to be fertile for life. As the balance scale of Lady Justice is replaced with a cudgel, and her blindfold exchanged for binoculars it would do for us all, gay or straight, to reassess just what makes a civil society. 6 the STAR wxvw.ozarksstar.corn ~’wvw.ozarksstar.com the STAR 7 Recognized by Keller Williams For outsLandlng achievement 2005 and 2006 Chuck Sreckenridge 918-706-1887 3627 NW Expressway 405.840.2106 TESTING CLINIC hea]t~ ow~each prevention education, inc. 1-800-535-AIDS (2437) Oklahoma’s HIV/STD Hotline PROTECT YOURSELF PROTECT YOUR PARTNER(S) ¯ Frse nonjudgmental HIV ~esting, including the 20 minute OraQuick TesL KNOW YOUR STATUS *Free Syphillis screening at th~ GLBTCommunity Center on Tuesdays from 6-Spin H,O,P.E. Testing Clinic Mens Outreach Program In Tulsa at (918) 812-7045 Let us promote your business in a UNIQUE & DIVERSE market. Call STAR ADVERTISING today. (918)835-7887 8 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 9 AIDS WALK OKC R~MEMBEIUNG THOSEPASSED ON, WORKING TOWA~ocDSABETTER FUTURE. By Victor Gorin Photo:Joe @dgle); OKCsc~ool teacher and political activist with Miss America Lauren Nelson OKLAHOMA CITY, OK __ Keeping up a proud tradition begun in 1998, the Oklahoma City AIDS Walk was held again on Sunday, September 29 as usual sponsored and supported by a wide variety of groups & people from all walks of life to help those living with HIV, prevention and education, as well as remembering those passed on. ~his year the occasion was honored as Miss America, Oklahoma’s own Lauren Nelson, headlined as this year’s Grand Marshall. This year’s walk raised over $60,000. The Walk benefits the AIDS Support Program/Winds House, RAIN (Regional AIDS Intercommunity Network), Guiding Right, Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma-HIV/AIDS Legal Resource Project, Northern Lights Alternatives, Other Options Inc, Planned Parenthood of Oklahoma & Red Rock North. Currently over 6000 Oklahomans are living with HIV or AIDS. OKC MDS Walk President Danny Morgan looked to the future with his statement, "We are really excited over the increase in attendance and money raised over last year, and we’re looking forward to an even bigger event with yet more money raised for the valuable work that our agencies do in the Oklahoma City area." STOP HATE N THE HALLWAYS A BULLYNG CONFERENCE THAT NADE H STORY By Victor Gorin OKLAHOIVlA CITY, OK __ On October 11 history was made in Oklahoma. Although there had been numerous conferences and seminars about school safety in the past, there had always been something conspicuously missing, and to one group of victims, along with their friends and families, it was obvious. It was students harassed because of their real or perceived sexual orientation. The Stop Hate in the Hallways Conference was held at the Springlake Metro Tech Campus, organized by Cimarron Alliance and co-sponsored by numerous organizations. The conference was attended by over 300 people, among them teachers, school administrators, law enforcement, and other people from all walks of life throughout Oklahoma. As one of the organizers, OKC Councilperson Ann Simank pointed out, " I think the conference is addressing many issues that should have been addressed years and years ago. The whole goal is for the attendees today to obtain some real knowledge and tools to take back to their communities so that they’ll be able to make children safer and feel better, to feel accepted." The conference explored the price society pays for school bullying. Victims of bullying are less likely to go on to college, many even drop out of high school to escape abuse, thus doing serious damage to their careers. School districts have been successfiAly sued when harassment was deliberately allowed, and tragedies have resulted that have made schools less safe. The keynote speaker was Kevin Jennings, the founder and national director of GLSEN (Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network), which works to educate the public and school systems about the problems faced by students harassed due to sexual orientation. A former teacher himself, he pointed out that a generic policy prohibiting bullying" is no more valuable than no policy at all. Gay students likelihood of skipping school is when they see themselves specifically mentioned in the policy, among race, religion, color, and so on". He also pointed out that it has been shown that schools that have a policy specifically protecting students from harassment due to sexual orientation have a lower incidence of bullying overall. On a positive note, he stated that among parents surveyed almost 83% support school policies protecting students from bullying due to real or perceived sexual orientation, even 77% of those parents identified as born again Christians. Although there are many differences of opinion, the overall consensus of parents is that they want their children’s schools to be safe. He compared the threats & opposition of fundamentalist parents opposing a policy of this protection to be "like a dog on the other side of a door that is really a chihuahua. " There was discussion about the Oklahoma City School District, which last year posted on their website the upcoming Student Handbook, which included among the categories protected from bullying & harassment "sexual orientation," then mysteriously pulled those words two days later. Despite numerous appeals by many diverse speakers and groups, the Oklahoma City School Board has yet to give any reply as to why this happened, or why there is no policy protecting OKC students from this category of harassment to this day. To attend the conference, personnel from the OKC school systera had to take personal time off from their jobs. In closing Richard Odgen, President of Cimarron Alliance had some optimism in saying, "I think this will not be the end of this discussion, but the beginning. We’re hopeful that in the years to come that rather than the State Secretary of Education saying ’ I’m too busy’ she wil! be here. Rather than a lack of support from largest school district in the state, there will be a policy of sending teachers to the conference. We’re letting people know, we are going to talk about it, it isn’t right that that these hot topics aren’t discussed, in fact that is why the), must be discussed. " 10 the STAR ~.ozarksstar.com TULSA, OK (P/R) __ The Dennis 1L Neill Equality Center art gallery will host its monthly meet-the-artist reception from 6- 9pm, Thursday, November 1, 2007, for the opening of its November exhibit, "Schizo", works by artist Patrick Uva. Uva comes to Tulsa via New York City where he studied art at City College ofNew York. Since moving to his new home, Patrick has created a prolific collection of new paintings and sculpture. His new shmv "SCHIZO" was inspired by the auditory hallucinations he struggles with every day. "I wanted to express my struggle with the voices, but also the idea of collective freedom. I have this ’built-in’ collective consciousness so I wanted to show how individual awareness affects humanity as a whole. Patrick uses vibrant colors, fabric, dirt, sand and even cigarette ash within the confines of a skewed geometry to produce art that is at once violent, harmonious, haunting and ioy6 l. The exhibit will remain up through the month of November, and can be viewed Monday thru Saturday from 3-9pm. The Dennis R. Neill Equality Center is located at 621 E. 4th St., in downtown Tulsa. More info can be found on the web at okeq.org. This monthly event is hosted by Oklahoman’s for Equality (OkEq). OkEq seeks equal rights for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender (LGBT) individuals and families through advocacy, education, programs, alliances, and the operation of the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. Cdebrate 1st Arm versary Oklahoma’s Log Cabin Republicans (LCR) will be celebrating their first year as a chapter of the national organization with a special free barbecue dinner November 1. The social event is for members only and their friends, including many Democrats who have been invited. It is also an event geared toward welcoming potential new members. "We are going to throw a nice dinner party for our members and friends, to celebrate the fact we completed the requirements of our national committee for full chapter status," said Tim O’Herin, president of the group. LCR is the nation’s largest organization of Republicans who support fairness, freedom, and equality for gay and lesbian Americans. It has state chapters nationwide, a full-time staff in \Vashington, DC, and a Federal political action committee. "Although LCR of Oklahoma has been active in the gay community for about three years, this is our first year as a recognized chapter," he said. The party is by invitation only, and will be held in a member’s home in the south Edmond, North Oklahoma City area. The barbecue dinner is being provided by Head Country Barbecue of Ponca City. Dinner will be at 7:30 PM., with a one hour cocktail hour at 6:30 PM. "We encourage any gay man or lesbian who is a Republican, or supports our goals, to contact us for details about the dinner," he said. "Since it is being held at a private residence, we will not publicize the exact details of its location, but anyone who is interested in attending can contact us for further information," O’Herin said. ....................Continued page 27 Deborah Harry per£orm At T sa’s Historic Brady eater TULSA, OK (P/R) __ The lead singer for Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees Blondie, Deborah Harry is performing at Tulsa’s Historic Brady Theater on Tuesday November 27th. The ultimate pop-rock, new wave diva, Debbie Harry set the mold, incorporating everything she learned from culture pioneers like Andy Warhot, Giorgio Moroder and Fab Five Freddy into her fashion, look and, particularly, sound. With Blondie, she and Chris Stein brought the worlds of disco and rock together with "Heart of Glass", "Dreaming", "The Tide Is High", and "Call Me" and broke ground by combining hiphop and pop on "Rapture." As a solo artist, Nile Rodgers & Bernard Edwards co-produced her first release Koo Koo in 1981. She continues to defy expectations with such genre-busting efforts as "French Kissing in t~he U.S.A.," "Rush Rush," "Rain", ’[Atomic", and "The Jam Was Moving." Before there was Madonna and Gwen Stefani, Debbie Harry was rock’s reigning blonde pin-up icon, and both are quick to acknowledge her inspiration, as are countless female (and male) rockers who have since formed bands. On the heels of her sixth solo album "Necessary Evil", Deborah Harry will be performing live at Tulsa’s Historic Brady Theater Tuesday November 27th, 2007. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $29, $39 & $49. at www.bradytheater.com, Tulsa’s Historic Brady Theater at 105 West Brady, or by calling the Brady Theater Ticket Office at (918) 58-BRADY (27239). www.ozarksstar.corn the ST.~R 11 Y÷a ! GUTHRIE, OK__ The Guthrie Centennial Committee, in coordination with the Oklahoma State Centennial Commission, is proud to present a major state celebration in Guthrie, Oklahoma on November 16, 2007. This State Holiday celebrates the 100 Year Proclamation of Oklahoma Statehood by President Theodore Roosevelt on November 16, 1907. Guthrie, as Oklahoma’s First State Capital, will host historical re-enactments of the statehood proclamation, the swearing- in of Oklahoma’s First Governor, Cliarles Haskell, and the symbolic wedding of Oklahoma Territory with Indian Territory. These re-enactments will be held at the historic Carnegie Library in Guthrie, where they actually occurred in 1907. At 12 Noon, a historic parade will be held, just as occurred in 1907, and will retrace the route from the Scottish Rite Temple to Mineral Wells Park. This historic parade will include major university marching bands such as the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University, Langston University, the University of Central Oklahoma, and the Oklahoma Centennial All Star Band. In addition, marching bands from Logan County high schools will also perform. At Mineral Wells Park, a barbeque will be held with the identical menu which occurred a century ago...barbeque, bread, a pickle, coffee and lemonade. Other events and entertainment venues will also be held throughout the downtown area during the day. State and national dignitaries will be in Guthrie, to participate in the reenactments, and in the parade. The President of the United States has been invited to be in Guthrie also on this day. The City of Guthrie has been advised that between 75,000 and 100, 000 visitors may attend events on this historic day. As a small city, the challenge of these crowds will be enormous. City planning is ongoing throughout 2007 to anticipate and deal with crowds. Many volunteers from the Guthrie and Logan County communities, and from the region, will assist in making a historic day for visitors. Lodging, dining, other details: Residents are being encouraged to wear early 1900 "Period Dress" for the Statehood Day events. Victorian, Edwardian, and Western dress is encouraged but not required. Visitors to Guthrie are also welcome to wear period attire. Lodging and dining referrals may be found through the Chamber of Commerce at 405-282-1947. Historic Pollard Inn at 405-282-1000 The Guthrie Bed & Breakfast Association through v~.guthriebb.com Sleep Inn at 405-260-1400 With the large anticipated crowds, visitors may desire to bring personal or picnic lunches. 12 the STAR w~wv.ozarksstar.com PlanetOu InCo Sells RSVP Vacations SAN FRANCISCO, CA (PRNewswire- FirstCall __PlanetOut inc., the leading media and entertainment company exclusively focused on the gay and lesbian market, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement with Atlantis Events, Inc. for Atlantis to acquire RSVP Vacations. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close on or about October 24, 2007. The sale will not affect RSVP’s scheduled itinerary, nor will it affect current passenger bookings. "We are extremely pleased that RSVP wil! become part of the Atlantis family," said Karen Magee, chief executive officer, Planet- Out Inc. "Atlantis plans to preserve RSVP’s distinct brand, enabling Atlantis to expand the audience it serves by taking advantage of RSVP’s unique positioning within the LGBT community. We believe this combination also will be a real positive for RSVP’S customers and business partners. It really is a perfect match and we’re looking forward to expanding and extending our marketing relationship with Atlantis." "From a corporate perspective, we believe this transaction demonstrates to our shareholders that we are continuing to deliver on our commitment to leverage our strengths by simplifying our business model and emphasizing our core competencies," added Magee. "We are focused on ensuring that we are in the best position to realize our full potential as the leading media and entertainment company exclusively serving the LGBT market, while also strengthening our balance sheet." Magee also pointed out that the sale of RSVP reflects PlanetOut’s strategy of shifting its business to a model which has advertising revenue at its core, and draws strength from the company’s powerful, iconic media brands. Quot bBe Quotes The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear a challenge to Alabama’s ban on the sale of sex toys, ending a nine-year legal battle and sending a warning to store owners to clean off their shelves. Sherri Williams, owner of Pleasures stores in Huntsville and Decatur, said she was disappointed, but plans to sue again on First Amendment free speech grounds. "My motto has been ’They are going to have to pry this vibrator from my cold, dead hand.’ I refuse to give up," she said. George Takei gets own asteroid: "I am now a heavenly body,’, says the out gay actor ofAsteroid 1994 GT9’s official renaming in honor of his long "Star Trek" service. George Takei already had a place among the stars in the minds of millions of"Star Trek" fans. Now he’s taking up permanent residence as the namesake of the asteroid formerly known as the 1994 GTg. The asteroid, located between Mars and Jupiter, has been renamed 7307 Takei in honor of the actor, who is best known for his role as Hikaru Sulu in the original "Star Trek" series. "I think the opponents of gay marriage really fall into two categories. A small group of people just don’t like gay people. If you don’t like one, you don’t like two. It’s geometric. The larger percentage are people who are generally supportive of equal rights, as they have been in Massachusetts, but hear these predictions that it’s going to be socially very chaotic, and they figure, why take the chance?" -- Gay U.S. Rep. Barney Frank, D-Mass., to the Wellesley [Mass.] Townsman. Photo: Presenting the CarlAlbertAward to Mr. Lemon (right) isfim Frasier, a Tulsa Stonezoall Democrat OKLAHOMA CITY, OK __ On October 20 at the Oklahoma State Democratic Party’s annual Carl Albert Dinner, Bob Lemon received the Carl Albert Award along with the late State Senator Keith Leftwich. Mr.Lemon, who describes himself as "straight but not narrow," is an active member of the Oldahoma StonewaB Democrats and a generous supporter of many causes of the GLBT community. Quotable Quotes Opponents of Oregon’s new same-sex domestic partnership law failed to turn in enough valid signatures to block the measure that takes effect Jan. 1, 2008. "We’re thrilled to bring Atlantis and RSVP together into the same family for the first time," said Rich Campbell, chief executive officer ofAtlantis. "The two companies are stronger together than they are apart, and taken together demonstrate the strength and vitality of the gay travel market." www.ozarksstar.corn the STAR 13 October 1930 (77 yeas ago this month): Sociologist Laud I-tumphreys is born in Chickasha, Oklahoma. was ONahoman Lau d Humphreys? aud I-Iumphreys’ 1970 book, Tearoom Trade: Impersonal Sex in Public Places, presented a landmark ethnographic study of men who cruise for anonymous sex in public bathrooms - a topic that remains relevant to this day. Robert Allan Humphreys was born October 16, 1930, in Chickasha, Okla., the son of a conservative member of the state House of Representatives. After graduating from college in Colorado Springs, Humphreys earned a Master of Divinity degree in 1955 and was ordained an Episcopal priest (at which time he adopted the name "Laud"). He married his wife Nancy at age 30, and the couple had two children. Humphreys’ involvement in black civil rights and antiwar activism in the 1960s garnered attention from the FBI and angered prominent members of his various congregations. After he was dismissed from a parish post in Wichita, Kan., he enrolled in graduate school at Washington University in St. Louis to study socio!ogy and crimino!- ogy. Possibly motivated both by the discovery that his deceased father led a secret homosexual life and by struggles with his own sexuali~ Humphreys decided to study men who seek sex in public toilets, or "tearooms." Though Humphreys claimed he was a "watch queen," or a voyeur who acted as a lookout, many suspect he was a more direct participant. Humphreys recorded the license plate numbers of more than 100 men he observed having sex - mainly fellatio - in the bathrooms of a city park, used these to track down their addresses, and later visited their homes in disguise, posing as a public health interviewer. ~ne subjects never knew they were part of a study, much less gave their consent. Humphreys’ Ph.D. dissertation, published as Tearoom Trade in !970, detailed the steps involved in the homosexual public sex ritual - positioning, signaling, maneuvering, contracting, foreplay, and the payoff- as well as the intricate back-and-forth as men gauged one another’s interest. As such, he concluded, it was highly unlikely that an unwitting straight man would be molested or pestered for sex. Though the men went to great lengths to avoid both arrest arid violence from uninterested heterosexuals, police used the cruising code for entrapment. "W-hen a homosexual takes a seat in the adjacent commode and starts tapping his foot, the decoy will tap back," Humphreys wrote. Humphreys found that just over half the men he studied were married, 38 percent did not consider themselves either homosexual or bisexual, and only !4 percent were openly gay. They came from diverse races and socioeconomic classes and were generally similar to "normal" heterosexual men, except that the cruisers tended to be politica~ y and socially conservative pillars of their community. "In donning the breastplate of righteousness," Humphreys wrote, "the covert deviant assumes a protective shield of superpropriety." Humphreys’ dissertation caused an immediate furor. ~Pne university chancellor sought to have his degree revoked for abetting felonies, sociology colleaDles criticized his dishonest research methods, and some gay activists regarded the study as an embarrassment - though it shored up the argument that since homosexual cruisers bothered no one else, bathroom busts were a waste of resources. Nevertheless, _Tearoom Trade won the prestigious C. Wright Mills award from the Society for the Study of Social Problems. In 1972, Humphreys was hired as a professor of sociology and criminal justice at Pitzer College in Claremont, Calif. - a contract he negotiated from a jail cell where he was serving time for invading a draft board office and smashing a portrait of Richard Nixon. He came out publicly at the 1974 annual meeting of the American Sociological Association as part of a panel discussion in which he also outed Edward Sagarin (who had written the groundbrea~ng Tlxe Homosexual in ka~aerica under the name Donald Webster CoW in 1951, but had since grown critica! of the gay movement). Humphreys went on to co-found the Sociologists’ Gay (now LGBT) Caucus. By the mid- !970s, Humphreys’ scholarly productivity had declined, and he began to shirk his academic responsibilities. In 1980, he left his wife, moved in with a male protege, started a private counseling practice, and became increasingly involved with the Los Angeles gay community. In his later years, he returned to the ministry, serving people with AIDS. A heavy smoker, he died of lung cancer at the age of 58. The ethics of Humphreys’ study are still widely debated. Along with other questionable research in various fields, it helped usher in strong informed consent requirements and institutional review boards to protect research participants. But his work has undergone reconsideration in recent years. None of his subjects were actually harmed (Humphreys kept their information under lock and key), and some commentators have suggested that much of the initial furor was motivated more by distaste for the topic than true concern for the subjects. Further, information about public sex cultures proved invaluable in devising AIDS prevention strategies, and partidpantobserver research with an advocacy" angle became more acceptable. Almost four decades after its publication, Tearoom Trade remains the definitive guide to homosexual toilet sex. Despite a much larger GLBT community, many more venues for meeting, and pervasive sex on the Internet, anonymous sex in public places shows no sign of dissipating among gay or non-gay-identified men. For further reading: Galliher, John, W’ayne Brekhaus, and David Keys. 2004. Laud Humphreys: Prophet of Homosexuality and Sociology (University of Wisconsin). Horowitz, Irving. 2003. Tributes: Personal Reflections on a Century of Social Research (Transaction Publishers). Schacht, Steven. 2004. Moving Beyond the ControversT: Remembering the Many Contributions of Laud Humphreys to Sociology and the Study of Sexuality. International Journal o-fSociolo{~y and Social Policy (Vol. 24; special issue on Humpnreys). 14 the STAR ~w.ozarksstar.com AbriefhiSlory ofthe grape Pinot Noir comes from all over world. It’s grown in many coun including: France, Argent Austria (called burgunder), (Sp&tburgunder), (Pinot Nero Zealand, "Dole" when the United States, gundac). Pinot Noir is a difficult with. The plant is A parent plant can wildly different ~erry size ar even flavor. Cabernet I genetically individual clones Noir has it ages earthiness, smoke Chardonnay in spar- Ion in inot Noirgoes l~hrough a range of langes as it matures. A young wine will fruity characteristics including: Cal raspberry and strawberry. 4. Jayer-Glf Hautes Cot Burgundy 5. Etude Carneros ’05 California 6 Raptor Ridge Willamette Valley ’05 0~egon And as always, I say go to your favorite www.ozarksstar.corn the STAR 15 OnSaturday night November I0 Tulsans "W~II have an opportunity to hear one ofAmerica’s greatest songrcesses, a remalkable artist with her own eclectic brand of modern folk music with her own unique twist. Born in Greenwich, Connecticut and growing up as a talented prodigy, she studied at the American School of Ballet, went on to earn a drama degree at Stanford Universi~ founded her own MPress Record label, racked up a repertoire of discography, and has even written & performed nasionally known TV commerai£s. She has toured extensively in both the United States and Europe. Described by Judy Collins as great glfx...an incredible talent and beauty," the shares her thoughts, hopes and aspirations with us. STAR: Glad to have you with us, we’re delighted you’re coming m Oklahoma. Have you been here before? MS SAGE: I have, I played there a couple of years ago at your Tulsa Pride Festival. STAR: How would you describe your unique brand of music? MS. SAGE: I would tend to call my music arc-pop, which kind of btingr in some of the pop music that I listened to growing up from the 50s, 60s and 70s and some of the classical music I heard as a ballerina. STAR: As a record coflector myself I was intrigaed with some of the music that influenced you growing up, like the records your parents had of Broadway shows, the Beades ¯nd the do-wop artists of the 60s. MS. SAGE; Certainly the Beades, a lot of classical music, and Broadway musicals. In the 70s a best friend tttrned me on to a lot of folk ardsts like Carole King, James Taylor 1 6 the STAR & Cat Stevens. Of course I heard Isreali folk music when I was at Temple, STAR: Did the music you hear at your synagogue have a big influence on your style? MS.SAGE: Mosdy the Temple music made me love to sing. Tae cultural aspects of tynagugue exposed me to a lot of music, a lot of minor keys & beautifid melodies, another area that showed me how music can bring people together. MS.SAGE: Well, I was always into music, sounding music out on the piano by ear when I was about 2 ½ years old. Actually the first Broadly show I saw was Ok~homa, and when I gut home I would try to play the score by ear. I gut into dance, which was a good part ofmy muaiol education a~ well. STAR: You had written and performed for some nationally known TV commercials. What are some that we might remember? MS. SAGE: I did one for Gillette, ~nd another one for Cwstal L 7 or 8 years ~ inside you, takes you away, Crystal Light, 5 different STAR: I love it! What influences your music most of nil today? SPINNAKER CRAB CAKES Ingredients: 1 pinch white pepper a bowl with crab meat may<:~rt~i~ eggs, chives and seasonlow heat. Slowly now or they WJI! ~l to bum. Ser~e with a side of mayonnaise into which a few dl~p~ of fresh lemon juice and TRAVEL by Donald Pite and Ray Williams SAN FRANCISCO AND "THE CASTRO" ~ehave just returned froio the beauttfial "City by the Bay~ and it is tr~y as wonderful, exciting alld lnagl~ificellt as ever. For some strange re~.son it kad been 6 years shace we were last there and we used to go once a year, but we got involved with othes places to visit instead, but we were so happy to visit San Frmlcisco again. \Ve find it am~iog how many gays around the country have never been to gan Francisco so we will start of by saying that Saa Frmacisco is the city ~uxd "]he Castro" is the gay district in Sm~ Frmacisco which is filled with lots of great restaurants, shops and ofcourse plenty of bars. "!bns of bars so whatever you ~re into you will be sure to find a bar just for you! "The Cusrco" has been around for y~ a~d years. All up ~nd dco~n the Castro d~strict ~re gay ttags waving e,mrywhere ~d the largest one is just as you step offthe pubic transportation system and you are laced with the largest gay ttag that we and a wondert~ c~mmunity room located t~ght at the front which overlooks the mreet where you c~n watch hmtdreds ofgays w~k b?; 18 the STAR ins and a public email statina, available 2417. And in addition you have access to their refrigerator and mlcro-wave. They care about their guests! Just wish that more B and B’s were as considerate and caring. Why ~xor stay where you are partying? Be sure ~nd check out both of these B and B’s before making a trip to San Francisco. Shopping for gifts, clothing, decorating items or even groceries are all within a couple bIoch area of the Castro. T~e res~aura~*rs axe a~ individu.tlly owned and off&s a wide ~ango of menus. A~xd of course by s tayla~g at the Village House you ~e right i~ tlm middle of everyth~g ~d can w~kk everywhe~[ ~en there is San Francisco i~sel£ What a beaurifu[ dty and of art work, museums, down,town shopping on Union Squaxe. Chinatown is just a few bhicl~ from downtown and you certainly don’t want to miss the shopping and food there, From downtown take one of the cable cars to Fisherman’s Wharf alld Pier 39 to see all die The gay section ofHippie Hollow Park is afavorite Austin kangout on weekend afternoons. (Photo by Andrew Collins) Austin, Texas Fast-growing Aastin has been one ofAmerica’s most talked about cities over the past decade, having not o~ly increased its population by nearly 50 percent but also solidified its [eputation as an ultracool place ro live and visit. The fact that Austin is oppressively hot for a few months each summer is about its only maior negative. A~ auctman approaches, however, Austin cools off again ~nd this means the city’s myd~ad cafes, lounges, music dubs, and gay hangouts sizzle with activit~ If yoffve been to this lefr leaning - especially by Texas standards - city before, say five or more yeaxs ago, you may have trouble recoguiaing it. The downtown landscape has been transformed by recendy constructed office and hotel towers, and a fantastic new air port makes traveling here a breeze. Here’s a recipe for enjoying the perfect three-day weekend in this upbeat, welcoming metropolis. Consider staying in the forty downtown Warehouse District, with its bounty of both gay and gay-friendly bars as wdl as hip restau rants and offbeat boutiques. Worthy recommendatiorts include the most glamorous hotd in town, the Intercontinental Stephen E Austin. an opulent 16-stoty beauty with marne baths, 1920s era furnishings, mad twice-daily maid service. Perfectly appealing yet less pricey downtown alternatives include the Radisson Town Lake, whgse rooms face the scenic Colorado River (known as Tow~ Lake 20 the STAR in this part of the dty), and the H~apton Irm and Suites, an attractive, reasonably priced mid-rise opened a few years ago. Across the river, within walking distance of downtown, you’ll find another excellent todging base, the retro-trendy South Congress district, home to the devedy restored Austin Motel. Many rooms at dais quirky slice of ’50s-style Americana have tile floors, kitchenettes, Jacuzai rubs, and kidney shaped patios. There’s an on-site Mexican restaurant, El Sol y La Luna, that turns out fiery, kich-ass huevos rancheros and carne asada. A few blocks away, the swankier Hotel San Jose is another old motor court that’s been given a postmodern, mlnlmalist makeover. The spacious courtyard suites are downright posh (and pricey), but a simpler though soil snazzy room with a shared bath runs for under $100 nighd)~ Entertain g~ests in the hotel’s scene-y iounga-cum-coffechouse. OI~ Friday, your first night in town, decompress ~tfter your flight or car ride with a rel~xh~g, informal meal at one of the city’s well-regarded purveyors ofTex-Mex, such as Guero’s or Manuel’s. A former feed store that’s now a fabulous taqueria, Guero’s serves some of the best Mexic~m f~re in central Texas - flora standard but artl~ly seasoned tamales to more innovative creations like marinated grilled pork on a corn tortilla with onions, cilantro, mad fresh pineapple. Fancier than most oFabe Mexican testaments in town, M~nuel’s is a sleek, deco-inspired space i~ the Warehouse District with a sassy little bar in back. Try some of the more innovative creations, fike corn-battered colossal thdmp with a poblano-chile c~rn, or pork enchiladas in a velvety mole sauce. Al~er your meal. it’s time to check out at least a couple ofAustin’s inviting gay bars - it’s a topsy-turvy scene in these parts, with one or two bars coming and going seemingly every year. But you can consistendy count on there being roughly a half dozen gay bars downtown, mosdy concentrated in the Warehouse Distticr. Worthwhile options on Fridays include the relatively new Rain on 4th, which opened in the Warehouse District in 2006, and has a kively deck out back, a cozy bifliards bar up front, and a mldssize dance b~r iu file middle; and Chadie’s, the city’s oldest gay bar, which fies in the shadows of the state capitol building. Go-go boys perform inside, ~nd there’s a spacious deck in back. If you’re looking to keep it mellow your first night, have an ~er-dlnner cocktail, fruit smoothie, or espresso drink at the stylJth Halcyon Coffeehouse and Lounge, a hlpster-i~fested, gay friendly bengout across the street from Rain on Rise a~*d shine on Saturday morning with breakfast at one ofAustin’s more eccentric nosh pits, Magnolia Crate, which has branches along South Congress Avenue ~aad also just west of downtown on Lake Austin Boulevard. The delicious, filling breakfast specialties range from the "Solar Landscape" (seasoned grilled potatoes, red onions, and ham topped with queso ~nd chipotle sauce) to hefty gingerbread pancakes bursting with blueberties. Very dose to the South Congress neighborhood, you can take to the outdoors and work offsome calories with a stroll through beautiful 350-acre Zilber Park, a fine spot to tan your hide on sunny days. The park’s spting-fed Barton Springs Pool, a popular and enormous swimming hule, remains an invigorating 68 degrees year-round, so bring along a swimsuit if the weather’s nice. Austin’s best outdoor attraction, however, is Hippie Hollow Park, which hugs the shores of stunning Lake Travis, about a 30-minute drive west of town. This is the region’s only official clothing-optional sunbathing spot. The gay section, which draws substantial crowds on just about any day with temperatures above 65 degrees, lies at the very end of the pathway that leads from the parking lot. On weekend afternoons you’ll often see pleasure boats packed with cute guys docked just offshore. Break for refreshments with a meal at the Oasis, a massive outdoor compound set high on a bluff overlooking the lake and Hippie Hollow - it’s a short drive from the park. The mediocre Mexican food at Oasis won’t win any culinary awards, but the views and the potent margaritas make this a winner. On your way back into town, treat yourself to some truly heavenly ice cream at Amy’s, a shrine to fattening dairy treats. Mexican vanilla, pumpkin cheesecake, and honeyed brandy are a few poptflar flavors at this local chain with outposts in several handy locations, induding South Congress Avenue and 6th Street downtown. If you still have a litde time left, stroll among the cool antiques, homefurnishings, and second-hand clothing shops a!ong South Congress Avenue and also in the Warehouse District. Saturday-night dinner options are many. Stick with the Warehouse District for the best people-watching, plus proximity to gay nightlife. Excellent dining bets include Kenichi, a mod, happening place where pretty young things hobnob over superbly rendered Japanese cuisine. At nearby Malaga, you can savor plate after plate of terrific tapas, such as braised beef short ribs in Riojo vdne. It’s a dramatic space with tall brick walls and marble tables, and there’s Latin music most nights. Saturday is Austin’s big night for gay revelry. Rain on 4th and Charlie’s remain popular options, but this is also the best night to check out Rain’s neighbor, Oilcan Harry’s, which has been a £xture in the city for years. This always-packed stand-and-model bar attracts a hot collegiate crowd. There are a couple of bar areas, a patio in back, and a good (loud) sound system serving the tiny but pulsing dance floor. Austin’s many queer country-western fans head to the nearby Rainbow Cattle Co., where they two-step and line-dance below a sea ofwagon wheels and Wild West artifacts. If you’re into leather, head to the Chain Drive, which cultivates a bearish and rugged ambience. The city also has dozens of clubs and lounges hosting bands and singers ofjust about every ilk, making Austin one of the nation’s top cities for live music. Just stroll through the Warehouse District, especially along East 6th Street, and listen for the sounds of music to your liking. In Austin, nobody cares much about looks, labels, and agendas - you’ll be made to feel welcome most anywhere. Sunday morning offers a fresh opportunity to sample one ofAustin’s great brunch or lunch spots - depending on how late you sleep in. A favorite of the gay community, Katz Dell is renowned for its half-pound sandwiches - the grilled three-cheese with tomatoes is especially good. Another enjoyable option is the South Congress Cafe, a handsome space known for such toothsome brunch treats as duck-and-oyster gumbo, and a luscious carrot cake French toast. Spend your final afternoon in town exploring the leafy 357-acre campus of the University ofTexas, whose attractions include the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library and Museum and the Texas Memorial Museum, which has exhibits on state history and local flora and fauna. UT’s Blanton Museum ofArt is well-regarded for its collections of Renaissance paintings as well as modern Latin American art. Guadalupe Street, known along its border with LIT as "the Drag," is a haven of alternative culture as well as the place to shop for locally made arts and crafts, Longhorn memorabilia, and other offbeat goods. On your final night in Austin, you might go all out with a highticket dinner at one of the city’s most sophisticated restaurants, such as dark and sexy Jeffrey’s, which has the polish of a big-city supper dub and a clientele that ranges from celebs to politicos. The lamb T-bone with spinach-parmesan souffle and onion-mint confit is a typically sublime dish. Don’t miss the white-chocolate parfait with brandied cherries and pistachios i~or dessert - a memorable ending to a great Austin weekend. 72% of gays and lesbians prefer to buy from companies that advertise to them directly. (Source: Harris/Witeck-Combs) Brand loyal, 89% of gays and lesbians are highly likely to seek out brands that advertise to them; the majority are willing to pay a premium for quality products and services. (Source: Simmons) ~,~twv.ozarksstar,com the STAR 21 by Donald Pile & Ray Williams Featuring Cuisine From Coast to Coast lae Spinnaker Restaurant, On San Francisco Bay The Spinnaker Restaurant in downtown Sausalito, California is one of our very favorite restaurants in the country. We have dined there many times over the years and it just keeps getting better and better. Chef Phil Collins has been there since 1982 and Jeff Scharosch the General Manager has been there since 1994. q-hey do a remarkable job and it shows! "l-he Spinnaker Restaurant has panoramic views of the Sausalito waterfront, San Francisco skyline, Angel Island, Belvedere, Alcatraz, & the Bay Bridge. Floor to ceiling glass walls enable guests the chance to enjoy the scenery from every angle in the dining room, which is built on piers directly over the water. The view is unrivaled and is the best in the San Francisco Bay Area. Located in beautiful historic Sausalito, The Spinnaker is just a short drive from the Golden Gate Bridge. The stunning view is only surpassed by our extensive menu, featuring the freshest seafood & finest ingredients. You can also take the Ferry or bus service to Sausalito and it is just a 5 minute walk from either terminals to the restaurant. For over 47 years they have been treating guests to the finest in seafood and pasta. q-hey are open everyday from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Their menus offers something for everyone, with fresh seafood, pasta, steak, chicken, & vegetarian options. Seafood highlights include the Mixed Seafood Grill, Spinnaker Paella, Pacific Mahi Saut~ with Crab & Brie, Grilled Lobster Tail, & Petrale Filet with a Crouton & Macadamia nut crust. Our pasta selections include Penne with Grilled Chicken, Four-Cheese Ravioli with Walnut Alfredo or Pesto Sauce, & Fettuccini with Crab. They also offer Petite New York Steak or Filet Mignon with Cabernet Bordelaise, Piquant Chicken Breasts Saute, & Braised Chicken Breasts in a Champagne reduction. Vegetarians can choose from an array of salads, Pasta Primavera, Bruschetta, Cheese Quesadilla, or Baked Brie with Roast Garlic. If you wish to dine for lunch, they also offer many delighttiff sandwiches including the Crab, Shrimp & Avocado Club, Club House Sandwich, & The Spinnaker Hamburger. For those with a sweet tooth, their desserts will surely hit the spot. Cr~me Brule, Berry Trifle, Warm Apple Tart with Vanilla Bean Gelato, & Hot Fudge Sundae axe just a few of their sinful selections. They also have a huge wine selection and banquet facilities are available for special events and parties. Valet parking is available. Be sure and check their website at: www.thespinnaker.com No trip to San Francisco would be complete without dining at Spinnaker’s! 22 the STAR www.ozarksstar.corn A Family Affair Lesbian Notions, an interview with Jennifer Chrisle~ executive director ofthe Family Equality Council No good deed goes unpunished. That is certainly the case for Michael Gregg Valdez and Michael Oberg, who took in the four young children ofValdez’s niece. The niece asked the couple to take care of her children while she dealt with some drug-related criminal matters. Already parenting Valdez’s biological daughter, Michael and Gregg, as Valdez in known, are more than happy to provide a stable, loving home until the children’s mother is ready to do the same. The problem is they live in Utah, where two unmarried people cohabitating cannot serve as foster or adoptive parents. And in Texas, the state is proposing spending close to $3 million to investigate current foster parents. If any of the parents are found to be LGBT, the kids will be yanked from the homes. Chrisler has been working to protect those kids and their LGBT families since Apri! of 2005, when she came to the Council, then located in Washington, D.C., after serving as a fundraising consultant for political campaigns and LGBT organizations in Massachusetts. She and her spouse, Cheryl Jacques (yes, the same Cheryl Jacques who helmed the Human Rights Campaign for a brief and shining moment) recently moved The state’s Division of Children and Family Services asked the courts to take the children away from the two men so they could be placed in foster homes more to the state’s liking - married, heterosexual households. Instead of handing custody to the state, the court took custody of the kids and then turned around and granted Gregg temporary custody. For now, the four will stay together. Remember the Easter Egg Roll at the White House, where LGBT families wore rainbow leis and received national media attention? That was thanks to FEC. This is just the type of situation that fuels the passion ofJennifer Chrisler, the executive director of the Family Equality Council. You may have knmvn the organization as Family Pride - the name was recently changed to reflect their purpose of achieving family equality for all loving families. "Mike and Gregg’s willingness to open their homes and hearts highlights ~vhat is best about families - love, commitment, strength, and support," Chrisler told me recently. "Utah’s law regarding placement of foster care children is not good public policy, nor is it good for children." Ballot initiatives banning gay adoption and fostering may well raise their ugly heads in the 2008 presidential race - although when that tactic was used in 2004, it didn’t gain much traction. However, according to Chrisler, Arkansas is likely to mount a ballot initiative that in the long run will just hurt kids in need of loving homes. back to the Bay State with their 5-year-old fraternal twins, Tim and Tom. The organization moved with them, and is now headquartered in Boston. ’Tm a mother. I’m raising my kids in a world where our families don’t have what they need to keep each other strong and protected," she noted. "Kids spend a lot of time explaining who their families are, and I’d like that to stop." In the little more than two years that Chrisler has been at FEC, she has transformed the organization into a political powerhouse. Remember the Easter Egg Roll at the White House, where LGBT families wore rainbow leis and received national media attention? That was thanks to FEC. When James Dobson from Focus on the Family wrote a hatefiA op-ed in _Time Magazine_ about Mary Cheney’s pregnancy, FEC pressured the conservative weekly to run a counterpoint piece entitled "Two Mommies or Two Daddies Will Do Fine, Thanks," authored by Chrisler. The piece focused on the inequity ofVirginia state law - where Cheney and her partner, Heather Poe, live with their son - and how Poe is without any legal parental rights. "Some of the pressing issues we face are marriage equality and uniform parenting laws," said Chrisler. "We need laws that recognize the complicated and creative ways our families are created. Issues such as surrogacy, sperm donors, and divorce create legal complications. It would be nice to have a uniform law to protect our families." A community organizer at heart, Chrisler understands that she can’t be the only one out there speaking on behalf of family equality. Through OUTspoken Families, the organization’s national speakers bureau, more than 1,000 people in 39 states, D.C., one U.S. territory, and three foreign countries have been trained to speak out on family equality issues. "We’re training people to be advocates for themselves, their families, friends, and people they care about at every level of their life, from responding to a comment in an elevator to speaking to the PTA," said Chrisler. "We have a lot of people raising the issue of family equality at lots of different levels...we’re working to change the hearts and minds of straight people we come into contact with." Changing those hearts and minds means changing the way LGBT families live. Many of us no longer have to live in the shadows, afraid that someone will find out that our kids have two mommies or two daddies. But for those who do, FEC and Chrisler work to change laws, make schools safer, and create a national LGBT family movement that can no longer be ignored. www.ozarksstar.com The STAR 23 Diversityl~ ~ho are your greatest enemies? Luke Skywalker batded the respiratory challenged scoundrel Darth Vader. Superman played chess games with the Mensa maniac Lex Luthor. Batman and Robin were vexed with the likes of the Joker when they weren’t exploring the depths of their’batcaves. You and I have much worse enemies to ward off. These foes rear their ugly heads daily and seek to divert us from our health and fitness goals. The Bangles rendition of Manic Monday starts us heading through a sea of procrastination and fitness evasion. There is the Monday happy hour and 2-4-1 drinks the rest of the night at your favorite watering hole. This double headed monster lures you from your daily workout with promises of sweet intoxication and the aroma of tangy mouth-watering boneless buffalo wings. This enemy gets extra fire power during October, November, and December ~vith Monday night football. Resistance is futile. Tuesday night should be your cardiovascular workout on the elliptical machine. However, that new television lineup on NBC isn’t going to watch itself. It took scores of actors, directors, producers, grips, and cameramen many weeks to compile "Must See TV". You could just TIVO it all and catch up some other night. You would then be terrifyingly ignorant around the water cooler the next morning. That’s too dangerous to chance. Bad guys win again! It’s hump day and you’ll get back on that fitness wagon that you fell off of earlier in the week. I smell a conjunction though. BUT.... the guy in shipping and receiving is requesting your attendance at his birthday bonanza at the Hoo-Ha Lounge. The enemy here 26 the STAR calls himself GUILT. Your coworkers needle you about missing the retirement party for Nallely in the claims department. The decision is dear. You can always hit the weights tomorrow at the gym. Thursday dawns on you and what knave could be lurking to derail your plans today? Out of the bushes and over the grassy knoll are fired two shots. They are in the form of two tickets to that sold-out Erasure concert. No way! Get out! Andy Bell is in town and you’ve got your daws on some front row seats. You know every song and every lyric. That arm and chest workout can be shelved until tomorrow! What a concert! You have a hoarse voice but at least it’s Friday. Oh no! It’s Friday! There’s no way you can hit the gym tonight. Everybody who’s anybody will be at that new dub in downtown. Those hot DJ’s from KGAY will be handing out free T-shirts and selling $1 shooters for charity. You have all weekend offwork and you can surely make up for missed workout time then. After all Scarlet, tomorrow is another day. Saturday brings bright skies and temperatures in the low 90’s. The phone rings and it’s the boys. They’re heading for the lake with the boat, sunscreen, and a cooler stocked full of barley pops. There is no way you can miss this. I know you’ve said it before. But this has just been an unusual week. You really will get back on track soon. Right? Sunday comes and you can probably write your own defeat against an evil enemy. It doesn’t have to be this way. Stay strong against the dark side. With some discipline and some proper planning, you can keep a workout routine. Know what is important and stay focused. Tomorrow is always the busiest day of the year. Don’t let it be that way. Take charge today! ~is column is brought to you by that guy who likes to stomp hisfeet in bathroom stallsJUST for attention. Thatguy is Ron Blake and he can be reached at www.goblakefirness.com. Quotable Quotes Uganda’s leading Muslim cleric has proposed to President Yoweri Museveni that gays be rounded up and marooned on an island in Lake Victoria unti! they die. Sheikh Ramathan Shaban Mubajje told reporters of his plan following a much publicized meeting with Museveni. "I asked President Museveni to get us an island on Lake Victoria and we take these homosexuals and they die out there," Mubajje told a news conference. "If they die there then we shall have no more homosexuals in the country." Creating Community for People iving with HP4iAtDS A 501 c (3) Non Profit Organization Our House, Too offers a vadety of activities for people who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HIV+ and or IMng with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves. We invite anyone who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail hardsmmjr@yahoo.com. www.ozarksstar.com R~chad Sage continued: MS. SAGE: So very many independent artists actually, because the bulk of my listening time is spent evaluating and listening to music independent artists are sending me at my record label, MPress Records. ’,We do compilations which benefit charity called New Arrivals, we’ve released 2 so far and are working on a third. It’s a great opportunity to hear all kinds of independent music, spanning the range of folk, rock, alternative pop. I think that more inspires than influences me. I try to find my own voice continually, which I have found is a never ending process. As far as mainstream artists I always look forward to the next record from Fiona Apple, and Rufus Wainwright is one ofmy very favorite artists. I also like Coldplay, U2, and I still pull out my Carole King records, am I’m looking forward to an upcoming new Mark Cohn album. STAR: What kinds of audiences do you mainly appeal to now? MS. SAGE: Actually there are several, that’s one of the fun things of starting out at a young age. There is the folk world, the alternative college listeners xvhich are ever changing, a younger set and also those in their 40s 50s and beyond from the coffeehouse scene. I love to play at Pride festivals every summer, about 10 or 15 every year. Of course the GLBT community is a wonderfid and supportive audience. As a matter of fact, we’re about to pul! into Provincetown where we will be playing a gig for Women’s Week. STAR: ~his tour promotes your newest CD The Blistering Sun, what inspired the title? MS.SAGE: It’s a lyric from one of the songs of the album, "Surprise" which was written for my sister’s wedding years ago. It came out almost a year ago, and I’m almost ready to bring out another one in the spring of 2008 called Chandelier. The Blistering Sun is really about self-determination, coming to that place where you are true to yourself, a process and lesson that really never ends. ST/MR: Anything special you’d like to say to the music lovers ofTulsa? MS. SAGE: Just that I’m really excited to come back, it’s been quite a few years. I can’t wait-it’ll be fun! STAR-Looking forward to it, i’ll see you at the Bamboo Lounge Tulsa. www.ozarksstar.com Log Cabin Ref)ublicans continued: Oldahomds LCR is one of the newest organizations in OkAahoma dedicated to promoting gay rights. During the past three years it has been active and present at most gay public events, including gay pride celebrations in Tulsa, Oklahoma City and McAAester. "I believe the positive changes we need to make in America for gay rights can best be made when both major political parties are confronted with the reality of its gay members," O’Herin said. "This is espedally true of the Republican Party." For further details contact O’Herin at OKLOGCABIN@aol.com, or call 405-945- 0368. (IGBO) Continued: hotel. Holiday Inn will also host the registration suite, hospitality suite, many social events and a display of panels of the AIDS quilt. The tournament activities will be held at Heritage Lanes at 122nd & Penn and Windsor Lanes at NW 23rd & Meridian. Single and doubles bowling events will be held at Heritage Lanes and the team and Scratch Masters events will be held at Windsor Lanes. Management and staff at both centers are excited about hosting this special event. The weekend will wrap up with a gala awards ceremony to be held in the Sam Noble Special Events Center inside the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum on Sunday evening. This remarkable room will host a catered meal, special presentations by the IGBO Board of Directors, rousing entertainment by Lyric Theatre and the announcement of the winners of the tournament. The tournament will coincide directly with the state of Oklahoma’s Centennial cdebration. We hope our guests will take time to enjoy the city as it steps into its second century of growth and excitement. Please extend a hearty Oklahoma welcome to our guests as they visit our city for this special event! More information about IGBO can be found at www.igbo.org. More information about IGBO Mid-Year 2007 in Oklahoma City can be found at www.igbomy2007.org. MCCJopt r , Ce eBrates 10th Anniversary JOPLIN, MO (P/R) __Spirit of Christ MCC cdebrates ten year of service to the greater Joplin, MO area. This church was started in 1996 in the home of our pastor, Rev. Steve Urie. During the last ten years we have survived in a community where our own GLBT people said we would not survive. We have fed hundreds for the holidays, work closely with our local office ofAIDS Project of the Ozarks, have been a sanctuary for students dismissed for being GLBT, and have a food program available for everyone. Just this year Spirit of Christ MCC joined with MCC of the Living Spring to support the Domestic Partnership Registry in Eureka Springs, AR. We continue our concert series with such talented artists as Marsha Stevens, Terry Lee Ousley~ Shawn Thomas and Sam Sampson. During our celebration Marsha Stevens, Sam Sampson, Rev. Carolyn Mobley from Tulsa, Rev Kurt Krieger from Kansas City and friends from Eureka Springs, AR were all present. We are a member church ofMCC Churches. As a church made up of people from all walks of life, all economic classes, every gender, and a wide variety of ethnic and religious backgrounds. This rich heritage is our greatest blessing, because it brings the whole rainbow of Gods creation together under the same roof. It also presents our greatest challenge as we always strive to reflect this rich diversity in our ministry, programs and services. Spirit of Christ MCC has spent ten years focusing on the needs of our community through acts of kindness while standing for the justice that should be available to all people. Our church is open to all people and while celebrating the traditional church we recognize our God is not in a box. That realization is what frees us and all who worship with us. Find an MCC in your area: in Eureka Springs, AR visit MCC of the Living Spring at 17 Elk Street Sundays at 6PM; in Tulsa, OK visit MCC United at 1623 Maplewood Sundays at 11AM; in Kansas City, MO visit Spirit of Hope MCC at 3801 Wyandotte Sundays at 10:15AM and in Joplin, MO visit Spirit of Christ MCC at 2902 E 20th Street Saturdays at 10:00 AM. the STAR 27 Venus enters her own sign, Libra, helping us all to be more accommodating, artistic, and gracious. And more manipulative? Venus may not be to blame on her own. The Sun is in Scorpio squaring Neptune, inflating our desires and blurring boundaries. ARIES (March 20 -April 19): Teamwork comes more easily now, so work on those skills! Erotic tension between you and a good friend needs expression and clarification. Acting on it could be a mistake, but maybe.not. Discussing it is necessary, and probably quite sufficient. TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): Explore new ways to play and create with others, and find satisfaction there for now. Work is likely to be frustrated by confusion with close associates. Rethinking your goals could help. Express feelings and hunches clearly, and check them out before acting on them. SAGITTARJUS (November 22 - December 20): This is the time to curry favor with your superiors. Avoid gossip and subterfuge. Simply refuse to listen or to participate. As juicy as the dish may be, it will only get you into trouble. CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19): Forget the "tall, dark stranger." Flirt instead with the foreign cutie with dimples - you’ll be luckier in international affairs. But you’re less lucky now with finances. See where those sails need trimming, but wait another week to readjust plans. AQUARIUS (January 20 o February 18): Be very careful who you flirt with. You could seduce almost anyone you like, but you may find your erotic adventures complicating your professional life. At least be very clear about who you are and what you want to do. PISCES (February 19 - Niarch 19): Falling in love comes too easily to you, but ride that warm current now, either basking in the adoration of your partner, or enjoying an amour du jour. Foreign mystical philosophies have a special appeal; follow your instincts, and you may gain terrific insights. GEMINI (May 21 - June 20): Mend fences with family members or roommates. Be _very_ careful about safe sex! The most exotic and unusual bugs are looking for you. If there’s no spiritual fulfillment in your work, find a way to work it into your exercise. (Yoga? Haikido?) CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Your seductive powers are now at their height. You are perhaps a little too sexy and playful, and that could get you into trouble. But just as you can talk your way into anything now, you can almost always talk your way out, too. LEO (July 23 - August 22): Domestic disputes are nearly inevitable now. A drink or a shopping escapade seems to be the easiest way to ameliorate the problem - but drinking only makes it worse, and shopping is just a diversion. Still, a diversion could help! VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Some advice from your partner or another close friend could help you to improve your looks or to feel better about yourself. Appearances count, but go deeper and discuss health issues that you normally wouldn’t. LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): Enjoy quiet, meditative music and art. A private retreat will give you room to explore your own aesthetics without being influenced by others. Go to a museum or show on your own, and never mind what others like. SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): Your social charms are strong now, but what you want for others may not be what they care for. Explaining your goals may come off a bit too strong, so first ask others what they want. 28 the STAR METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES Rev Steve T. Urie Spirit of Christ MCC 2902 E 20th Street Joplin, MO 64804 417-529-8480 Worship Saturdays at t0:00 AM Community Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM MCC of the Living Spring 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays at 6:00 PM Have a God filled and BleSSed Day! www.ozarksstar.com DOWNTOWN PLAZA ofTULSA 17 West 7th Street Tulsa, OK 918-585-5998 www.downtownplazatulsa.com HABANA INN 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-528-2221 www.habanainn.com KELLY KIRBY, CPA 4815 S. HARVARD, SUITE 424 Tulsa, OK * 918-747-5466 Certified Public Accountant DREXEL ONTHE PARKAPTS. 3041NW41ST Oklahoma City, OK 405-946-0588 BRADYTHEATER 105 WBrady Tulsa, OK 918-582-7339 www.bradytheater.com CENTURY 21 GOLD CASTLE 3627 NW EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405-840-2106 www.c2 lgoldcastle.com CHUCK BRECKENRIDGE Keller Williams Realty Tulsa, OK 918-706-1887 GAY BRADY HHGHTS-TUlsa New and Historic Homes for Sale and Rent For Info: www.gaybradyheightstulsa.com GUSHER’S RESTAURANT 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 Located inside Habana Inn ANGLES 2117 NW 39th St. Oklahoma City, OK www.anglesdub.com BAMBOO LOUNGE 7204 E. PINE Tulsa, OK 918-836-8700 www.bambooloungetulsa.com www.ozarksstar.com CLUB MAJESTIC 124 N. BOSTON Tulsa, OK 918-584-9494 www.dubmajestictulsa.com FINISHLINE 2~00 NW 39TH EXPRESS\VAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE COPA 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE LEDO 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com DIVERSITY CHRISTIAN CNTR 211 S. Garnett Tulsa, OK 74128 www.realacceptance.com OUR HOUSE, TOO 203 N. Nogales Ave Tulsa, OK 74127 918-585-9552 HOPE TESTING CLINIC 3540 E. 31st Tulsa, OK 800-535-2437 Oklahoma’s HIV/STD Hodine SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC 2902 E. 20TH STREET, Joplin, MO * 479-529-8480 Service Saturday 9:30 AM MCC of the LIVING SPRING 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays 6pm NWARKANSAS GLBT CENTER Bentonville/Rogers 888-391-9222 WWNVdNWAGLBTCC.ORG DIVERSITY PRIDE EVENTS 479-253-2555 Eureka Springs, AR www.diversitypride.com Want the STAR delivered to your home or business? 12 issues for $29.95 will be mailed in a sealed envelope the 1st of each month. Complete the form below and send with a check or moneyorder to: The STAR 5103 S. Sheridan Rd., #153 Tulsa, OK 74145 (Single Copies $3.00 per issue) NAME: Address: City: St: Zip:. Phone: Check enclosed Money Order Start Date: V/hether buying or selling I’ll work hard for you. t~~~sas GLBT Communi~- Center "Linking Together as One" For more information: 888-391-9222 V!W~.NWAGLBTCC.ORG 30 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com w~’~,’.ozarksstar.com the STAR 31 Nov. 2 Event Center Special Guests 7 p.m. Jon Hoadley National Stonewal Democrats lim Roth Oklahoma Corporation A1 McAffrey Commissioner Featuring Scott, Shannen Porter, DeFawna DeLay Kelly Moore, & Melody Michaels unforgettable evening drink &en~em $30 ~mnual Membership Admission ~-’~ Okla"hThoemLGaBTSVtooicenoefwthealDlemDoecrmaticoPcarrtay~ts Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2007] The Star Magazine, November 1, 2007; Volume 4, Issue 11 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource November 01, 2007 Subject The topic of the resource Politics, education, and social conversation over LGBTQ+ topics Description An account of the resource The Star Magazine’s first issue began February of 2005. Before this issue was Ozarks Pride (2004) and The Ozark Star (2004). Follows is The Metro Star (2008). This magazine discusses topics of AIDs, education, politics, local and national civil rights of the LGBT community, and advice for relationships and places to visit. This collection is PDF searchable. Physical copies are also available to be seen at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center with permission. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Star Media, Ltd Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Star Media, Ltd; Tulsa, OK Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Greg Steele Charles (Chaz) Ward Victor Gorin Jeanne Flanigan Paul Wortman James Nimmo Joey D. Libby Post Andrew Collins Donald Pile Ronald Blake, Ray Williams Jack Fertig Liz Highleyman Devre Jackson Michael Leach Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Image PDF Online text Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource magazine Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Southwestern Missouri Western Arkansas Southeastern Kansas Eastern Oklahoma The United States of America (50 states) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://history.okeq.org/collections/show/19 Relation A related resource The Star Magazine, October 1, 2007; Volume 4, Issue 10 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/212 The Star Magazine, December 1, 2007; Volume 4, Issue 12 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/204 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context https://history.okeq.org/items/show/211 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/3356806c2182fe3249f316b72609c2b4.jpg 7634dc1bdf8e8b3252a44e3e8ccc1061 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/aa6ef9275e1a20d930fd5f8e5b7b61dd.pdf 4e9ec75b662993a6bafea9ee0fe5f5e0 PDF Text Text �1 (2437) Oklahoma’s HIV/$TD Hottine PROTECT YOURSELF PROTECT YOUR PAR (S) Center on Tuesdays from 6-Spin H.O.RE. Testing ~er~s Outreach Prograr~ tn Tulsa at (9t8) 812~7045 2 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �Local and Regional O cials Featured The New Advocate. By Steve VanHook OKLAHOMA CITY, OK __ Xhe new 40th Anniversary Issue of Xhe Advocate features six gay and lesbian elected officials in an article entitled "Great American Lives: The Trailblazers". Oklahoma’s A! McAffrey, Arkansas’ Kathy Webb, and Alabama’s Patricia Todd, state representatives all, are joined by Guy Padgett, former mayor of Casper, Wyoming, State Senator and progressive Democrat Jolie Justus of Missouri, and Dallas County Sheriff Lupe Valdez. The article and photos begin on Page 78 of the September 25th, 2007, issue, written by Paul Florez in NYC and Padraie Wheeler. In an introduction to the article with the heading "Doing It For Ourselves", the authors write: "After decades of pounding on the walls of government, fighting to be heard, gays and lesbians have finally secured positions inside those walls. There are currently more than 370 openly gay elected officials natiomvide, with at least 100 more expected to run in 2008. Meet six trailblazers who ran as openly gay candidates and won---in red states, no less." The piece on McAffrey reads: "Al McAffrey, 59, has lived a life of service. Before becoming a legislator, he had careers in both the Navy and the Oklahoma City Police Department. McAffrey said his sexuality wasn’t a central issue during his race for the District 88 seat in the Oklahoma State House, but that changed one day when he knocked on the door of a house displaying his opponent’s sign on the front lawn. "The guy said, ’I have only one question to ask you: Are you gay?’" recalls McAffrey. "And I thought, Oh, shit, how am I going to answer this? Well, I’m a pretty point-blank guy, so I said, ’Yeah, I’m gay. Does that mean you’re not going to vote for me?’ He looked at me and said, ’No, I am going to vote for you, because you’re honest." "The man tood down the opponent’s sign right there and then. Step it up to fight AIDS By Joey De TULSA, OK __ Lace up your walking shoes and head to Veterans Park Sat. Oct. 6 to join the fight against MDS. The fifteenth annual walk will step offat 9 a.m. from the park located at 21st street and Boulder avenue. The two mile route will take walkers along Riverside to 31st and then return to Veterans Park. Funds raised by the Tulsa AIDS walk go directly to supporting Tulsa’s National AIDS Fund Americorp team. The five person team provides prevention, testing and outreach services through out the Tulsa community. Tulsa is one of the few cities in the country that ........... Continued page 13 wvcw.ozarksstar.com the STAR 3 �STATE SENATOR ANDREW RICE ANNOUNCES HIS RUN FOR U.S. SENATE Indigo Girls descend on Tulsa at the Historic Cains Ballroom. The Advocate - the oldest continuously published U.S. gay periodical still in existence - has chronicled the history and culture of the LGBT community for 40 years. Ever simply smell a wine before you taste it? What does it smell like to you? Check out the color too. fl~ c,Ao T~V~Gay Travelers: Colorado Out of Town: Samta Fe. NM Dining In or OUT Maybe it’s my age - 50 is just around the corner (oy!). Maybe it’s because I’ve been in a relationship since I was 18 (mind you, that means serial monogamy F~T~ESS Introspection can lead you to better understand yourself and ultimately to achieve greater happiness. STAR DISTRIBUTION: OKLAHOMA CITY * TULSA * LAWTON * MCALESTER * ENID * LITTLE ROCK * NORTH LITTLE RODK * FAYETTEVILLE * FT SMITH * EUREKA SPRINGS * HOT SPRINGS * BENTONVILLE * ROGERS * KANSAS ON THE COVER: Indigo Girls 4 the STAR CITY * SPRINGFIELD * JOPLIN * BRANSON AREA* WICHITA * PITTSBURG * JUNCTION CITY ~.~v.ozarksstar.com �STATE SENATOR ANDREWANNOUNCES HIS RUN FOR U.S. SENATE By Victor Gorin He stated, "Robert S. Kerr, Henry Bellmon and David Boren had a trait in common that they were able to find common ground and get things done for our state when it needed to be done. I think that’s something I can do as a proud Democrat and know where my line in the sand is." Referring to skepticism some people have due to his youth, Andrew pointed out that Oklahoma has a long history of younger candidates who have been elected, including Don Nickles, who was younger than Andrew when he was elected to the U. S. Senate in 1980. "The experience that we talk about with politics, there’s a lot of that experience I don’t want. Being beholden to special interests, getting stuck in your ways, being a career politician, being inflexible and not able to see things from another viewpoint, that’s the experience that has taken us down the wrong road in his country. " OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__ QUOTE: "I’m humble as I go through this. I want the people of the state to get to know me, I want to know what their aspirations are, the things they want to see reformed. " Longtime LGBT ally Andrew Rice announced through press conferences & fundraisers that he is running for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by James Inhofe. Together with his wife Apple and their 2 sons, Parker & Noah, he let Oklahomans know where he stands and why he wanted the job. He currently holds the seat for State Senate District 46, elected to that position in 2006. That seat was previous held by Bernest Cain, who likewise was a staunch ally of the GLBT community as well as many other progressive causes but~ had to leave office due to term limits. ~,~rw.ozarksstar.corn At his press conference at the Oklahoma State Democratic Party Headquarters, he touched on many issues facing our country and how he wanted to make a difference, including global xvarming, national security, fiscal responsibility, and a major lack of trust Americans feel for their government. As he puts it: The incumbent, James Inhofe, was first elected to the U.S. Senate seat in 1994 with a special election when David Boren left the office to take the presidency of Oklahoma University He was re-elected to a full term in 1996 and again in 2002. He has become well known for extreme rightwing positions, including opposition to gay rights, total support our military involvement in Iraq, opposition to any minimum wage increase or support for organized labor, and calling global warming "a hoax." "It’s pretty remarkable the amount of disgruntlement, and really the lack of faith Andrew closed by pointing out that he people have in government. I think they wants to give Oklahomans an option if they feel a lot of anxiety not only because of the want a change. complexities we deal with like terrorism and . the health care crisis, but even basic good government practices." He stressed that his life experiences, especially his work in an evenly divided Oklahoma State Senate had given him the know-how of how to work with Republicans and yet stick to his principles. the STAR 5 �Democrats Need Negative Resuks in traq. Dear Editor: The national Democratic Congressional leadership believes failure by our troops in Iraq the central front in the War on Terror is essential for them to win elections in 2008, and that any positive sign of progress in Iraq is simply a "problem" for them. Democrat Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, driven by polls and politics, declared "This war is lost," even before the President’s new strategy began. Reid also has bragged, "We’re going to pick up Senate seats as a result of this war." And Democrat House Majority Whip James Ctyburn said that a positive report in September from General Petraeus and Ambassador to Iraq Ryan Crocker would be "a real big problem for us (Democrats)." Meaning the Democrats’ desire for an arbitrary troop withdrawal and their party’s 2008 electoral fortunes would be in jeopardy if our troops succeed. Is it aW wonder that the new Democratic controlled Congress has far lower approval ratings than the President? Let’s not forget that there are thousands of gay and lesbian troops fighting the M Queda terrorists in Iraq; courageously risking their lives against a violent worldwide ideology that has no regard for the lives of gay people in the Middle East or any where else in the world. These gay and lesbian soldiers from our community are true American heroes and deserve our unwavering patriotic respect. It is unconscionable that Democrat leaders, and many gay activists, are hoping for our troops to fail so their part,i can gain a political advantage. And it is unacceptable that the leading Democrat presidential contenders, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, both claim to support our troops yet voted against providing them with the resources to sustain their mission and keep them safe. Respectfully submitted, Matthew Veritas Tsien Former Air Force Executive Officer Low-maintenance bait for entrapment ? Dear Readers, Not being one who has ever solicited anonymous, or even well-known, sexual liaisons in public settings, I wasn’t aware of the Larry Craig foot-tapping dance which seems so imitative of certain insects that tap on leaves and stems to communicate either territorial limits or a need for mating. Thanks to Senator Craig America has received a birds-and-bees nature lore lesson hitherto known only to a relatively few wildlife specialists. But I do know there is a wafting of sexual pheromones in public par~ after dark at certain locations in Oklahoma City (OKC), Will Rogers Park being one of them. I recently attended a neighborhood political event at Will Rogers Park that, after I had helped pack up the event, found me walking back to my car after dark at 8:30pm. I had parked at the botanical greenhouse thinking the event I was attending was located in that area. ............................ Continued page 15 America’s national security should not be kicked around like a political football by the Far Left in Gay America. Many gays believe winning the War on Terror is vital to our country’s national security. 6 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �wY~w.ozarksstar.com the STAR 7 �Re~gnized by Keller Williams For outstanding ad~levernent 2005 and 2006 Chuck Breckenddge 918-706-1887 405.840.2106 MLS. OCTOBER 11, 1987 Gay and Lesbian March on Washington and ~ ur~ting of ~he AIOS Quilt on the Na~al MS]I OCTOBER 11, 2007 National Comir~ Out Day Let us promote your business in a UNIQUE & DIVERSE market. Call STAR ADVERTISING today. (918)835-7887 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �AFTER 25 YEARS THE ANGLES OKC TORCH IS PASSED ON OK]~AHOMA CITY, OK When A~gles opened in Augast of 1982 it was a great beginning that made its mark in history, ql~e club had an tmustml beginning when Scott Wdion applied for a gquor license for what was presented to be "CottonEyed Joe’s,~ a country dmaee b~r. When they opened as a gay disco named Angles, problems quickly began.. The club and thei~ customers were subjected to a vigorous campaign of police harassment, with officers frequendy raiding the club, citing them for bogus violations, along with ~rresring customers ~md sometimes beating them as well Boy George, the Wcathergirls ("It’s Rainhag Men), Dead or Alive, Jermifer Holhday, Divine, Paul Lekakis, Gloria Gaynor, Viola Wigs & celebrated their 19th anniversarg with Bonnie Pointer.lt was a memorable occasion when comedienne Joan Rivers enjoyed a portrayal of hersehc performed by the late Amii Dyshea. Their Turnabout Shows (where their employees got in deag) benefited AIDS charities aad becanae honored traditions for our community Love of Last Resort Much of our local talent was bolstered as well, including diva~ including Ghager hamar, Raahad Erikks, and the dynamic duo of Parr] & Tuna Melt (Tuna better known internarionaBy as cBef Ruby Ann Boxcar with patty her sister Donna Sue). Countless pageants were held there, with most of the past Miss Gay Oklahoma’s crowned there. The club also garnered respect from the straight community as well, gaining so much of their patronage that Angles was voted OKC’S Best Dance Club ha the Oklahoma Gazette several times, as well as the Best Gay Bar many times as well. ............... Cont~ued page 27 Angles fought baclq keeping track of the incidents, including badge & tag numbers as well as the police officers havolved, ~ad threatened to sue the city. A deal was forged with the city where Angles was awarded one dollar in damages plus some of the legal ll~s, and the City agreed to cease harassing the dub and their customers. The story made national news, and also w~s the major story of the first issue of the Gayly Oldahom~a in October of 1983. It £so proved to be a major turning point, with club ovmers of the ~ea having a good relationship with the police, and the overall climate changhag. Other gay bars followed as well as other buxinesses catering to the GLBT commuuiry, with many people remembering this courageous stand that was a major factor making it possible. Throughout the 80’S and 90’s Angles became a showcase & the In place to be, replacing the Free Spirit as OKC’S premier gay d~nce spot. Disco divas from that time remember world class DJ’S including the late Michael Tchekerades (fondly knovm as Checkers). Angles hosted major entertainers including www, ozarksstancom the STAR 9 �LINDSAY PAIGE TAKES THE CROWN By Victor Gorin Oklahomans for Equality opens "Out of the Closet: A T-Shirt Retrospective" at Dennis R. Neill Equality Center gallery TULSA, OK (PR)__ Toe Dennis IL Negl Equahty Center art gallery will host its monthly meet-the-artist reception from 6-9pro, qTaursday, October 4, 2007, for the opening of its October exhibit, "Out of the Closet". qqae show will be a retrospective of LGBT diemed T-Shins, a private collection of former gifx-shop owner Tom Neal, The displayed shirts, both regional aa~d international, wig offer a gfo~apse L~to the history of the gay rights movement as seen through T-Shirt design. The opening reception wg! be catered by donation from Brother’s Pizza Depot. q~e exhibit will remain up through die month of October, and can be viewed Monday thru Saturday from 3-9pro. The Dennis K Neig Equality Center is located ar 62I E. 4th St., in downtown Tulsa, More info can be found of die web at okeq.org. Tlxls monthly event is hosted by Oklahoman’s for Equality (OkEq). OkEq seeks equal rights for Lesbian= Gay, Bisexual & Transg~nder (LGBT) individuals and families through advocacy, education, programs, agiances, and the operation of the Dennis R. Neifi Equality Photo ~ Victor Gorin, Left Melody Michaels, Right Lindsay Paige OKLAHOMA C!’YY, OK __ The iudges had the work cut out for them they }udged the wildly talented contestants at the Copa August 22-23, but Lindsay Paige survived the comperifion of some of Oklahoma most talented divas to capture the title of Miss Gay Oklahoma for 2007. Having won the distinction of I st alternate last year, her reaction upon hearhag her name as the winner clearly was ruth of heaven. The first alternate was Melody Michaels, a performer well known in Oklahoma City for her shows with Kitty Bob ALines and Ginger Lamar at the Boom. Tncy wl]l go to Memphis to compete for the crown of Miss Gay Ainerica October 17-21. Willa Johnson Wins Oklahoma Count Commissioner District One. OKLAHOMA CITY, OK With the conclusion of die special crat Willa Johnson, ~von handily wirh 54% of the vote over arch 2007 Miss America Lauren Nelson Headlines AIDS Walk of Oklahoma City OKLAHOMA CI~ (PR) __ Oklahoma’s own Lauren Nelson, who is the reigning 2007 Miss America, wi~ serve as the Grand Marshag of the upcoming MDS xYSalk of Oklahoma City. The Walk will take place o~ StmdaB September 30 at the Myriad Bormaical Gardens. Registration and festivities begin at 12:30pmfoliowed by a 2:00pm step off. There is no fee to walk in this important community event, which builds awareness and f~nds each year for die treatment and prevention of HIV/AIDS i~ the greater Oklahoma City area. Southwes~ Ah-lines has generously donated two roundtrip aidine tickets to any Southwest Airlines desrSnation in the Continental U.S. to be raffled offat the Walk. Ra~e tickets are only $1 each and may be purchased either at the AIDS Walk on September 30, or by contacting Lfoda Larason at 405/570-4835. One need not be Ms.Johnson has served on the Oklahoma City Councg for Ward 7 since 1993. In her position she acted cnnsistendy in support of issues concerning the GLBT comnmdity, voting in support of an ordinate prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation, opposed banning the GLBT banners during Gay Pride Month, and she opposed die abolition of the Oklahoma City Human Rights Commission. She has become well k~own for her outspoken opposition to discrimination. 10 the STAR Form your Walk team now and bring your donations to the 2007 MDS Walk of Oklahoma City. Visit www.aidswalkokc, org for more information. �.s DesCend By Leda Dowlearn worth watching. The Girls’ -warm up band, 3FiveHuman out of Atlanta, was a good rocking start. By the time they were finished the expectant energy of the crowd was at a ftenzy. Then the roar, suddenly the Gifts were there before us, guitars in motion, singing "Pendulum Swinger" (sure hope Hilary Clinton does adopt this as her theme song but she’d probably be too afraid to swing this far left). After that, it was song after song after song with hardly a break in between except to change guitars and grab a mandolin, banjo or harmonica. One thing I realized early on was that the Girls were not into stage presence. We heard a little banter about getting lost in Tulsa, enjoying the old YMCA, and their bassett hound on the bus but that was about it. Perhaps in a nod to location Amy Ray had on a western cowgirl shirt. But overall, the Girls were there to do their songs. Photo by Leda Dowlearn TULSA, OK __ On September 13th the Indigo Girls, icons of the feminist folk./rock music scene, descended on Cain’s Ballroom in Tulsa to the full-house, floor-stomping adoration of a mostly lesbian crowd. The day the Girls came to my part of the universe I was in a closet (not my usual place) replacing a water heater thinking about the amazing fact that I had tickets to finally, that day, see these two demi-goddesses in the flesh after slavishly worshiping their musical personas for the past twenty years. In between hot and cold water pipes I was fantasizing about all the questions I’d love to ask them say should we run into each other in the bathroom or something Next step: I called Cain’s Ballroom and invoked the power of the media to get someone’s attention and, bless their hearts, an hour later I was talking with the Girls’ publicity" agent who said she’d see what she could do to set something up after sound check. That was enough for me. \VC’ater heater be damned, my partner and I hightailed it out of Northwest Arkansas headed for Tulsa town four hours early. Well, the bubble burst shortly after we hit the outskirts of Tulsa when their publicity agent had to tell me it was a no go on the interview. I was a little too late with my request and the Girls turned me down. That was okay, though, I still had my camera, two tickets and the evening was before us. This was my first visit to Cain’s Ballroom but I was up on their history after a review of their website. The feel of the place was cool, the line at the bar was friendly and the gathering crowd was well www.ozarksstar.com Okay, that was the Nirvana part and maybe I should stop there. It was more than enough. But in retrospect, that time of second thoughts that comes to you over coffee at Denny’s after your ears have stopped ringing, this die hard fan has some things to say that may or may not be more than I should be asking of the Girls, but here it goes anyway. Yeah, I got some great pictures and I heard some great songs. But they were all delivered to me in one big load of too much sound and too much rock without letting the songs that really needed to roll just roll. Can you Girls not trust that your audience is sophisticated enough to hear you on many levels? After all, yours is a mostly lesbian crowd. Emotional roller coasters are no problem for us. You can take us up and down so relax a little with that. Amy, yeah, you’re a rocker and you’re a star. No question in my mind that many of your songs are destined to be classics. You’re my Dylan, you’re my Springsteen. Rock on but know we love your slow songs, too, and I really, really wanted to hear "Three County Highway," "Nueva Senorita," or "Moment of Forgiveness." Emily, you’re brilliant with your lyrics and your melodies but you look like you don’t want to be in the circus anymore. You’re Baez, you’re Mitchell in your roots. But is it possible for Mitchell and Springsteen to share the same stage without each doing serious damage to the other’s genre and landing musically somewhere in the "upper echelons of mediocrity" as you have said yourself in "You and Me of the !0,000 Wars." Amy is ready and willing to jump into the chaos of rock and her songs have the energy and intensity it demands. She proved this brilliantly in her show stopper versions of "Rock And Roll Heaven’s ............... Continued page 23 the STAR 11 �31 iCONS SELECTED FOR GLBT HISTORY MONTH 2007 Alexander the Great, Billie Jean King, Leonardo da ~nci, Bessie Smith, Cary Grant among Icons Equality Forum produced 30-second biographical videos on each Icon, which will be broadcast daily on here! and Logo television networks throughout October, and will be streamed on major GLBT Web sites. Comcast will air a 30-second television PSA. Equality Forum launched GLBT History Month in 2006, and is patterned after Black and Vgomen’s History Months. tn its initial year, GLBT History Month reached over 500,000 individuals. GLBT History Month 2007 Icons: PHILADELPHIA, PA __ Equality Forum, an international gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) civil rights organization, announced 31 Icons to be featured during GLBT History Month in October. ~he 31 Icons achieved success within their respective fields of endeavor, were national heroes or advanced GLBT civil rights. "The GLBT community has been uniquely disadvantaged by not being taught its history at home, in public schools or in religious institutions," said Malcolm Lazin, Executive Director of Equality Forum. "GLBT History Month helps teach our unacknowledged history, provides role models and celebrates contributions made by GLBT individuals to our country and internationally." The Icon videos are available for free for the Web sites of nonprofit organizations, educational institutions and corporate entities, through the inclusion of HTML code provided at wwv.glbtHistoryMonth.com. The Icon video is automatically updated each day. A free graphically-designed downloadable biography, bibliography and other educational resources for each Icon are available at www. glbtHistoryMonth.com. The 31 Icons from 2006 can also be found on the Web site. October 1: Leonard Bernstein (Composer) October 2: Annie Leibovitz (Photographer) October 3: Angela Davis (Civil Rights Activist) October 4: Alexander the Great (Military Commander) October 5: Billie Jean King (Athlete) October 6: Pedro Almodovar (Writer/Director) October 7: Bessie Smith (Singer) October 8: Klaus Wowereit (Politician) October 9: Susan Sontag (Author/ Commentator) October 10: Gore Vidal (Author) October 11: Lily Tomlin (Actor) October 12: Peter Gomes (Theologian) October 13: Mary Edwards Walker (Surgeon) October 14: Frederick II (Monarch) October 15: Virginia Uribe (Educator) October t 6: Frank Kameny (Gay Pioneer) October 17: Nancy Mahon (Philanthropy Advocate) October 18: David Hockney (Painter) October 19: Audre Lorde (Author) October 20: Cary Grant (Actor) October 21: Rende Richards (Transgender Pioneer) October 22: Sherry Harris (Politician) October 23: John Maynard Keynes (Economist) October 24: Gertrude Stein (Author) October 25: Zhou Dan (Chinese Gay Pioneer) October 26: Carolyn Bertozzi (Scientist) October 27: Cole Porter (Songwriter) October 28: John McNeill (Theologian) October 29: Florence Nightingale (Health Care Advocate) October 30: Billy Sipple (Hero) October 31: Leonardo da Vinci (Artist/Inventor/Scientist) ABOUT EQUALITY FORUM Equality Forum solicited nominations from leaders of national and international GLBT organizations. Nominees were evaluated by GLBT History Month Co-Chairs Rev. Nancy Wilson, Moderator of the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches, and Prof. Kenji Yoshino, Deputy Dean for Intellectual Life at Yale Law School. Equality Forum’s Board of Directors approved the final slate of 31 Icons. 12 the STAR Equality Forum is a national and international nonprofit, 501 (c)(3) GLBT civil rights organization with an educational focus. Equality Forum develops high-impact educational content in the form of documentary films, history projects, innovative initiatives and the largest annual national and international GLBT civil rights forum. www.equalityforum.com www.ozarksstar.com �Playwright!Actor Jerry Rabus a Back OKC with "Love Of Last Resoi-t If you’re a gay guy trapped for three years done on an abandoned and deserted sex resort, what could be better than having the man of your dreams wash up ashore? It’s a love story "waiting to happen.., or... is it? That’s the whole premise of "Love of Last Resort." Josh, played by author Jerry Rabushka, has been living alone on an uncharted South Pacific isle for quite some time. No electricity, no running water, no man for company. How does he do it? Easy! He consults back issues of Martha Stewart Living, follows the instructions, and can make anything he needs, usually in three easy steps. If you’re lost and alone, this is a very very good thing! Along with that, he changes personality on a regular basis. "It hurts to admit your entire persona has to be thrown out," he says. "But it’s all very ’Martha.’ You just make it out of what you got." Matt (played by Scott Mueller) couldn’t be any more opposite. An escapee from an "all gay cruise," he winds up beached on Josh’s island, pining after a man back from home, rebuffing Josh every step of the way. ’Of course you love me," he’ll say. "I’m the only choice you have." You can do some really cool stuff when you’re alone on an island. You can be whoever you want to be. You can see your island as a prison or an opportunity. Josh uses the island to escape; Matt isn’t sure he wants to escape, and he isn’t sure he can love Josh until he finds out who the "real Josh" is. "Matt’s a perfect foil to Josh," says Scott Mueller. "He wants to love, he wants m be in love, but he’s afraid to give up anything to do it. And like a lot of people, he tends to punish the man in front of him for the sins of the one who came before." As time goes by, though, Matt becomes more intrigued by Martha’s ingenuity and Josh’s world of fake TV shows. Come "watch" their interview with Gloria, a porn star with a very descriptive last name, a gaymarriage soap opera, and of course a bit of fun with a pair of handcuffs. vw,’w.ozarksstar.com Love Of Last Resort premiered in West Hollywood, CA, and has since played in St. Louis and Springfield, MO, with a production at Tulsa’s Nightingale Theater in January 2006. For this production, Rabushka has re-written the play with a more comedic outlook and added several cool new songs. "I always like coming to OKC," he says. "We keep coming back because we have a lot of support here and enthusiastic responses, plus the folks at the IAO Gallery are great!" Rabushka, with his company Ragged Blade, of St. Louis, MO, has previously been to the IAO with Somebody Else’s Life, Woofl. The Road Show, and Gay Christian, Gay Muslim, Gay Jew, which starred nationally known gay solo artist Jade Esteban Estrada. Love Of Last Resort book & music by Jerry Rabushka starring Jerry Rabushka & Scott Nicholas Mueller October 12 & 13 at 8 PM IAO Gallery www.iaogallery.org 811 North Broadway, Oklahoma City Tickets: $!0; $5 students & seniors for show info/reservations please call 314280-1035, for directions or other local info please call IAO at 405-232-6060 for more information please visit www. raggedbtade.com AIDS WALK TULSA Continued has supported a team ever since the beginning of the National AIDS fund/Americorp program. According to the Janice Nicktas, the team’s coordinator, the fimdraising goal for this year’s event is $25,000. Nicklas says the event is open to anybody who wishes to participate and says that no level of support, financial or in spirit is too small. In fact, the organizer says that there are volunteer portunities for those wishing to be a part of the event, but unable to make the trek. To register or for more information visit www.aidswalktulsa.org. Credit cards and cash donations are accepted. the STAR 13 �September 1967 (40 yearn ago l st month): The Advocate publishes its first issue, What is the history of qhe Advocate? T he Advocate - the oldest continuously published U.S. gay periodical still in exfistence - has chronicled the history and culture of the LGBT commtmity for 40 yews. Udce many of the eadiest Ametic~n gay organizations, qqae Advocate_ was born in Los Angeles. It began as the newsletter of Person£ Rights in Defense’and Education (PRIDE), a gay liberation group formed after police raided the local Black Ca~ bar. In the summer of 1967, Richard Mit~h (alia Dick Michaels) - a writer for a chemical industry journal - his lover Bill Rau (aka Bill Rand), and Sam Winston hatched a plan to turn the newilerter into a gay newspaper. Dubbed the Los Angeles Advocate. it debuted in September with a print run of 500 copies, produced at night in a print shop in the basement of ABC Studios, where Rau worked. Mirth renamed it Advocate in 1969, and h became the first American gay news publication with a nationwide distribution, In 1974, Mitch sold "Die Advocate ~ millionaire investment banker David Goodstein for $350,000. After taking over, Goodstein - a se[f-descrlbed "practicing capitalist" who hated street protests and had frequent rtm ins with movement activists - fired most of the staff and writers, considering them too le ft-~ving. According to one columnist, Goodstein said he wanted the paper to appeal to "the upwardly mobile homosexual who has a home in the hills, drives a luxury car, and orders alcohol by brand." Within a year, Goodstein moved _q~e Advocate_ to the San Francisco suburb of San Maleo and liired journalist John Preston as editor. He adopted a magazine format and "desle~zified" the publication by moving the sexually explicit personal ads to the back, and event uafly into a pull-out section. by Robert McQueen, formerly of the Salt Lake Tribune. Scandalized by McQue~’s officials came to The Advocate haadqu~rters beefed up the paper’s cultttral coverage from and Pat Califia’s ’%dvocate Adviser" column. By 1968, internal dissension led to the dissolution of PRIDE, ~nd Mitch ~rr~rged to purchase the newspaper for $1. Initially, the publication focused on local news, covering police nfisconduct mad gay liberation demonstrations. But it also added pieces on Hoflywood celebrities a~ad columns such as "Body Buddy" (fitness) and "Cooking with Atmtie LOu." Short on leshi~a content, the paper often featured scantily dad men on its covers and included a popular personal-ad section called "Trader Dizk?’ Mirth preferred to feature de,n-cut activists like the Rev. Troy Perry of the Metropolitan Cor~mauniry Church, rather than fiippie radicals llke Morris Kight, a co-founder of the Los Angeles Gay Liberation Front. In a bid to make the paper more professional, Mirth hired Rob Cole, formerly of the Dallas Times Herald, as news editor. As gay men and lesbians around the country began to look tu the paper for information, 14 ~eSTAR in 1984, Goodstein moved _The Advocate_ back to Southern California. Shortly before he died of cancer the following year, he sold it to Orange County businessman Niles Merton. After McQueens resignat’on, he magazine went through a series of thorttenured editors and struggled to stay afloat. In i990, under new ethtor Richard Rouilard, the magazine added "lesbian" to the masthead. Yet even as he oversaw a remm to advocacy iournalism, Rouilard favored splashy covers featuring attractive straight male stars and divas such as Madonn~ gay community was flush with disposable cash, The Advocate’s advertising revenues rose, rescuing it from the brink of foaancial insolvenc)~ ha 1992, with a new editor and publisher, the magazine underwent another redesign, this time spinning off the sex ads into a separate pubfication. In 1996, the magazine hired its first female editor in chief, Judy Wieder, In 2000, The Advocate’s p~ent company, Liberation Publications Inc. (LPI) - which had previously acquired book publisher Alyson Publications - purchased rival gay magazine Out, as well as HIV Plus. LH and gay Web compmay PlanetOut announced plans to merge, prompting critics to warn of an impending LGBT media monopo!~ That merger was called off, but in 2005 PlanetOut purchased LH for $31 million. Even as PkinetOut faced a financial crisis in early 2007, The Advocate continued to gain new subscribers. To celebrate its 40th anniversary, it came out of the closet, doing away with the "privacy wrap" that had previously shrouded the magazine. "The Advocate’s decision might seem like a trivial matter... but it stands for something far greater: the increasing acceptance and visibility of gay people in public fife,~ wrote gay journalist James Kirchick, As a key public voice of the gay communi~ Toe Advocate has been a frequent tzrget of criticism over the years. Many decried its thi~ away ~om militant politics and its increasing emphasis on entertainment and lifestyle content, while others thought the magazine was too commercial and catered to affluent white gay men. Yet 40 yeats after its founding, The Advocate remains the "periodical of record" that mainstream journalists, politicians, and business leaders ram to for informarion about the LGBT community. For further reading: Faderman, Li[fi~a, ~nd Stunt Timmons. 2006. Gay L-A. (Basic Books). Straitmatter, Rodgar. 1995. Unspeakable: The Rise of the Gay and Lesbian Press in America (Faber & Failer). Thompson, Mark (editor). 1994. _Long Road to Freedom: The Advocate History of the Gay and Lesbian Movement_ (St. Martin’s Press). �Letters cor~tirmed from pg 6 After finding the event I realized I should have parked by the amphitheater instead. I didn’t want to walk back and move my car after finally finding the event as I felt no qualms about walking in the dark after the event was finished. The picnic pavilions had security lights that came on as darkness set in and there were utility poles with lights that came on around the amphitheater, but as t walked back towards the greenhouse parking lot down by the arboretum I noticed that the street lights, even though there are many of them and they couldn’t ALL be malfunctioning, were turned off--all of them. It occurred to me that these lights were turned off intentionally to encourage the lewd sort of behavior that results in brownie-point arrests for the police department, fines for the city’s coffers, and humiliation and other negative social effects for those arrested such as job or housing loss, and registering as a sex offender on publicly available websites. Is the darkness a passive policy of enticement purposely engineered by OKC city government? Is the darkness being used as a low-maintenance bait for entrapment? If the city was really interested in reducing lewd behavior in public parks wouldn’t the lights be on throughout the night? Xghy weren’t al! those sensors operational? If street lights can come on automatically in residential neighborhoods to promote safety shouldn’t they also be effective in public areas where unwelcome behavior is tmown to occur? Shouldn’t those lights be turned on not only to discourage alleged lewd behavior, but also to lessen the threat of vandalism? There were about three or four cars within a stone’s throw of mine and as I was loading my trunk another car pulled in and an individual got out and walked away from the parking lot. I could see another person sitting in a car outlined by the flashing burglar alarm light on the dashboard, as if the occupant were a summer lightening bug signaling for a mate. I’m no fan of toilet trollers or lover’s lane Lotharios of either orientation. As a repressed minority in the USA and a target of brimstone-eating Bible bangers we gay people need to do better. When we W~. oza rkssta r. CO m achieve the ful! recognition of our citizenship, then like most straights who are observed in public sexual congress, we’ll be given a warning and told to move on without the victimization that comes from Puritan policymakers. CHAEL SAGE TURNS TO TULSA’S BAMBOO LOUNGE° I thank GOPer Senator Craig, a 62-year old man from Idaho, responsible for running several successful election campaigns, for showing the USA what responsibility he can be trusted with. If one is old enough for sexual activity, one should have the responsibility to do it in private. James Nimmo TMsa’s OkEq Library Catalog now online! TULSA, OK( OkEq E-news) ~The Nancy & Joe McDonald Rainbow Library catalog can now be accessed online! Visit www.librarything.com/profile/OkEq to browse our collection, search by keyword, read reviews on Amazon, and more! Photo by: Kevin Abosch About the library: Thousands of LGBT tides and exquisite glass art line the walls of the Nancy & Joe McDonald Rainbow Library in the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. Open during Equality Center hours (Monday through Saturday, 3pro to 9pro), the library has titles available for leisure reading, research, discussion groups, and as a resource for local students when writing on LGBT issues. Books are available for free check-out for the community. A mainstay of the Equality Center since its founding in t996, the Nancy & Joe McDonald Rainbow Library was named in their honor in the Spring of 1999. Nancy is Past National President of Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG), President of PFLAG Tulsa, has testified before the US Congress on GLBT issues and was the inaugural recipient of the OkEq Lifetime Achievement Award. TULSA, OK __ Direct fi’om New York Rachael Sage will return to the Bamboo Lounge Tulsa for an exclusive concert on November 10th, 9 pm. Ms. Sage made her first appearance at the Bamboo in 2005. East Village songstress, poet and multi-media maven Rachael Sage has been making gutsy pop music in one form or another since she was three years old. Her latest offering of "lovely and literate folk-pop-rock" (The Village Voice), THE BLISTERING SUN, is devoted to the topics of vision, clarit}; and facing life head on. A self-taught pianist who honed her skills listening to her parents’ doo-wop, Broadway and Beatles album collections, Rachael debuted her first original material for a captive audience of kindergarten students one fateful afternoon before their ballet teacher arrived and broke up the party. "When I started," she says, " t was writing a lot of music that sounded like Elton John - if he’d been a nice Jewish girl from a long line of Russian cantors." By junior high school, Sage’s dancing abilities had landed her a spot at the prestigious School of American Ballet; but it was really the music she was hearing in and out of class that intrigued her the most. the STAR 15 ��CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER ICE CREAM PiE �as we~ as bars. photo op. ~]~a~ goodness we get a |or of space on our digital ~mera disc! Colorado which was the MO~ °’Homophobic." State in the Union until very recently does not have a lot of gay accommodations but he~ is a list of fine most impotent ones arotmd the State. ElyrIas \g~stern Guest House at t655 E. 47th Avenue in Denver, v,xvw.irmtravels.com/ usatco/rdewgh.html Mountain Sage Lnn, 553 ~: Etl-&orn Ave., Estes Park, -,~w~,~v.mountainsageinn.coral Platte River Cabins, 16525 Pine Valley Rd., CoIfax Ave, Denver is a city ofwondedht restaurants all over the dr): Like Chicago, Denver has so many to choose from i~ all ~-pes of menus. Denver has lots of little communities within the city. The arts and museums are great as well as the shopping ~e other main city in the state is Colorado Springs which just has two bars,, Club Qat 3430 No, Academr Blvd. and the Underground at t !0 No. Ne;~ada,~ Ave, For a city tl{at so many religious nu s and conservatives it is a wonder that there are ant gay bars there at all. But Colorado Springs has a great Pride Fest every )mar a~ their downtown Ciw Park. 18 the STAR ww~.ozarksstar.com �TRAV S day, October 14, 2007 Brady Heights abuts the Brady Arts District and ties on North Denver and North Cheyenne ~venues. The tour wilt start at !2 under twelve. Ti&ets will be available until 4pro the day of the event and the tour ends at 5pm! Advance tict~ets are ava[ilable at www.bradyheigrhts,org. ProCeeds will benefit community projects the Brady Heig~hts Neighborhood Association. patio bar, From crab ca~es, Me:dcan E~ Rolls, Quesadilla, Barbecue Pvibbies or Sout}xwestern Steak Salad you wilt find a fttl menu. ~lhey have been in business over 25 years. Check out their website at: the STAR t9 �The Cowgirl restaurant is a papular and gay-fi’iendly spotfor barbecue, burgers, beer, and blues. (Photo by Andrew Cdlins) One of the region’s greatest lures is the fantastic, sunny weather - Santa Fe and north-central New Mexico enjoy beautiful weather year-round. Summer tends to be the busiest time for a Santa Fe visit - this is opera season as well as a time when many prominent festivals and art markets take place. But a fall or winter visit yields fewer crowds, cool and crisp temperatures, and still plenty to see and do - plus rates tend to be lower at hotels, which are among the priciest in the Southwest. Many of the city’s attractions are right in the center of town. Here you can take a walk around the Plaza; check out the numerous shops and cafes; admire the city’s adobe-dad Pueblo Revival, Spanish Colonial, and Victorian buildings; or stop by the circa-1610 Palace of the Governors, a state history museum set inside the nation’s oldest public building. There are several museums nearby, dealing mostly with art (such as the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, which has a terrific restaurant). If you’re a die-hard museum explorer, make the short drive (or bus ride) up the Old Santa Fe Trail to Museum Hill, a complex of outstanding cultural attractions, the highlight being the Museum of International Folk Art. The newer Museum of Spanish Colonial Art is another top draw. If you’d rather spend most of your time outside, saunter up Canyon Road, a narrow, winding lane of historic adobe bungalows containing some of the most prestigious art galleries in the Southwest. Fe, New Mexico Santa Fe sits at 7,000 feet above sea level, dinging to the lower slopes of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and offering an enchanting blend of Rocky Mountain and high desert living. ~12ais scenic city is politically progressive, abundant with museums and galleries, renowned for its distinctive adobe architecture, overflowing with sophisticated inns and restaurants, and ideal for outdoors enthusiasts. You won’t find much in the way of gay nightlife, but if you’re planning a romantic vacation with your significant other, Santa Fe may just have everything else you’re seeking. Even better, if you’re starting to think about retirement options, northern New Mexico’s "City Different" may be worth scouting out as a potential future home. In November 2005, RainbowVision Properties opened a GLBT retirement community on the south side of town, billing itself the first such full-scale endeavor of its kind (the company has plans for additional communities in Palm Springs, the San Francisco suburbs, and Vancouver). ~he 13-acre compound geared toward the 50-and-over set is worth checking out even if you’re not thinking of buying here - it’s home to the Silver Starlight Lounge and Cabaret, which is open to the public and is Santa Fe’s only gay nightlife option. It’s actually quite popular with folks of all ages, especially for early evening cocktails. 20 the STAR There’s spectacular hiking all around Santa Fe, but if you have time for just one ramble, head to Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, which is about a 45-minute drive south of town, toward Albuquerque. This 2-mile, moderately steep hike passes through a narrow, dramatic box canyon and then rises up to a lofty promontory affording panoramic views of the mountains and mesas. The monument is named for the bizarre rock formations that rise high out of one end of the canyon and look a bit like sandstone tepees. If you’re visiting between December and April, bring your skis with you, or rent some in town. Ski Santa, which is about 15 miles northeast of downtown, offers 44 trails of rugged, beautifully groomed trails. If you have trouble believing New Mexico offers much in the way of winter sports, consider that the ski area receives an average of 240 inches of snox~all annually. This is a first-rate facility, albeit not quite as famous or as demanding as Taos Ski Valley, which is just a two-hour drive north. However you get your exercise, whether hiking, skiing, or strolling among art galleries, you’re sure to work up an appetite in these parts, especially given the city’s high altitude, which can tax your system if you’re not used to it. Fortunately, this is a city with no shortage of terrific restaurants. Serving some of the most authentic New Mexican fare in town, the Shed is an excellent choice. The setting inside a 1692 adobe is ideal for sampling such local favorites as green-chile stew with pork and potatoes, and red-chile enchiladas. Or drop by I1 Vicino, an inexpensive, gay-friendly pizza place serving delicious thin-crust pies topped with gourmet ingredients, microbrewed beers, and a cheerful courtyard. www.ozarksstar.com �A favorite spot for brunch is the fabulous Care Pasqual’s, where you might sample buttermilk biscuits with sage-bacon graW, homemade sausage, and poached eggs. More sophisticated and substantial fare appears on the dinner menu - try the organic-chicken mole at dinner. You’ll find a couple of the city’s top restaurants along charming Canyon Road, including such high-end standouts as the Compound and Geronimo, as well as the popular tapas option, E1 Farol. Also specializing in smaller plates, downtown’s La Boca turns out such exemplary fare as Moroccan-grilled shrimp with sweet-pea-basil puree, and seared ahi tuna with Manchego-white-bean hash. If you’ve had your fill of New Mexican cuisine, head to the first-rate Kasasoba for exquisite Japanese food. And for casual, affordable, yet creative American chow, don’t miss these two gay favorites, the Cowgirl (great for barbecue, and with a big patio), or Harry’s Roadhouse a short drive south of the city - not terribly far from Silver Starlight Lounge. Harry’s is especially popular for its house-made ¯ desserts and potent margaritas. Santa Fe abounds with appealing accommodations, including a few gay-owned B&Bs and inns. One nice thing about B&Bs in northern New Mexico is that they typically comprise a small compound of casitas (adobe-style cottages) or a cluster of rooms with separate entrances, thereby affording plenty of privacy. Among the longestrunning and most enjoyable such properties is the lesbian-owned Triangle Inn, which comprises nine casitas and lies about 15 miles north of downtown. Units have lovely southwestern furnishings, VCRs, CD stereos, and kitchenettes, and many can sleep four. The Triangle draws mostly gay folks, whereas the other gay-owned B&Bs in Santa Fe cater to a mixed crowd. If you’re looking to stay in the heart of downtown, try E1 Farolito, a collection of airy casitas with fireplaces, striking Mexican and Southwestern furniture, and original art and photography. The Inn of the Turquoise Bear occupies the rambling Spanish-Pueblo Revival estate ofWitter Bynner, a gay poet and socialite of the 1920s and ’30s who threw lavish parties here that drew the likes ofWilla Cather, Errol Flynn, W.H. Auden, and Stephen Spender. It’s a warm and inviting inn surrounded by secret gardens and run by friendly hosts. Among mainstream, luxury accommodations, it’s hard to beat the over-the-top-luxurious Inn of the Five Graces, which is in the heart of the city center and consists of 22 opulently appointed casitas, all done with elaborate Latin American, Middle Eastern, and Asian antiques and decorative arts. Service here is arguably the best in town, and guests can also enjoy lunch at the cozy on-site cafe or dinner at the adjacent Pink Adobe, a famous old Santa Fe restaurant that the Five Graces management bought and refurbished in summer 2007. Another excellent upscale choice, the 57-room Inn of the Anasazi sits steps from the Plaza, its rooms outfitted with kiva fireplaces (common in Santa Fe, they’re shaped a bit like beehive ovens), handwoven fabrics, organic toiletries, and four-poster beds. An ambitious makeover in 2006 has given it a fresh look, and the hotel’s restaurant serves some of the most creative contemporary Southwestern fare in the state. Some additional downtown properties worth checking out include the upscale but well-priced Inn on the Alameda, with bright and airy rooms and a location handy for ~.ozarksstar.com Canyon Road gallery-hopping; and the mid-priced Inn of the Governors, a rambling hotel two blocks from the Plaza. Many rooms here have wood-burning fireplaces. Whether you’re alone or with your honey, it’s always fun to end a day of hiking or skiing with a soak in one of the outdoor hot tubs at Ten Thousand Waves, a gay-popular Japanese-style spa in the foothills on the east side of town. It’s a memorable spot for star-gazing. For the ultimate away-from-it-all vacation, book an overnight stay in one ofTen Thousand Waves’ smartly appointed luxury casitas, and watch your stresses melt away. �Charting Our Future? Lesbian Notions, about social networking websites for queers. Maybe it’s my age - 50 is just around the corner (oy!). Maybe it’s because I’ve been in a relationship since I was 18 (mind you, that means serial monogamy with four different women). Maybe it’s because I spend a lot of time on the Web at work. Whatever the reason, I’ve not spent too much time on any social networking site - lesbian, gay, or straight. Well, a recent study shows I’m alone! According to a January 2007 Harris Interactive/Witeck-Combs poll, gays, lesbians, and bisexuals use social networking sites more than straight people do. You can find us at MySpace 33 percent of the time we’re online, and at Facebook or Friendster 11 percent. But these aren’t sites just for us, and, as we all know, we like to go to places just for us, both in real time and in virtual worlds. At least four social networking sites specifically catering to the LGBT community launched this year - Glee, Olivia.com/connect, Socialbutter, and OurChart. Then there are these sites specifically for gay men (the names say it all) - Bigjock, Manjam, and Lovetastic. Now for us dykes who watch The L Word, we know where OurChart.com comes from. In the show’s first season, the engaging, alt-radio DJ and sometimes over-the-top lover of whomever she’s with, Mice, started an online chart to track the "relationships" - from one-night stands to the U-Haul on the second dates - of herself and her circle of friends and acquaintances. Over the past four seasons, it has been an on-again/offagain plot line, exploding - or perhaps I should say crashing - in season four, because of the exploits of lesbian sexual predator Poppy. Anyway, some of the girls in front and in back of the camera at The L Word decided to bring the chart into our lives 24/7 by launching OurChart.com, a social networking site just for us. According to a description on the site, "us" includes "lesbians, dykes, queer girls, gay women, high femmes, butches, drag kings, bois, transwomen, and transmen - however we define 22 the STAR ~urselves. On OurChart, you can connect yourself via friendships and relationships ~o the wide world encompassing all these people and more." L Word executive producer Ilene Chaiken is OurChart’s CEO, and her partners in the ~enture are Jennifer Beals, who plays Bette, Kate Moennig, who plays Shane, and, not ~urprisingly, Leisha Hailey, who portrays the ~oncept s ong,nator, M~ce. ~Recendy, I had the chance to chat with Lisa ~Parrish, whose blog, "The Hookup," appears ~laily on the site. She explained how it all ~wor-ks. "! love it," said Parrish. "It’s really fun to be part of a community. I do my blog three times a day. The first thing i do after it goes live overnight is...check to see what people are saying.. You sign up and create your own profile, and then your own chart by adding friends. The chart is, of course, digitally created with your photo at the center, which is then connected visually and virtually with photos of your friends. "I love it," said Parrish. "It’s really fun to be part of a community. I do my blog three times a day. The first thing I do after it goes live overnight is...check to see what people are saying...OurChart is a fun way of giving people a chance to meet each other, mingle, and talk about things they have in common." It wasn’t a happy ending - Grandma had died several years before, but at least the woman had some closure. OurChart is also bringing some original Web-based programraing to a computer screen near you. It has recently launched a shiny called Girl Trash, which, according to Parrish, is a "lesbian pulp-fiction-style noir thriller." It is a series of short Web-isodes of an L.A. girl gang careening through the seedier side of the city. Not necessarily my cinematic - albeit on a very small screen - choice, but it is written and directed by veteran L Word and movie director Angela Robinson. She also brought us D.E.B.S. and Herbie: Fully Loaded. Like it or not, Girl Trash shows us what is so great about the Web - the ability to create, be seen and scrutinized, and create again. But getting back to OurChart’s chart, Parrish told me, "One of the key differences about OurChart is that it’s about friends, networking, colleagues...not about people who slept together." Damn! But don’t despair. Parrish explained they’re adding a feature called "Friends+" that can chart anything from a fling to being involved for 10 years to being lifelong partners. "It’s really important to point out that friends won’t be able to be added to "Friends+" without the individual’s permission," said Parrish. "You couldn’t say you slept with Leisha Halley without her permission." Does Mice ask permission? Parrish told me a heartwarming story about a woman in the States who wrote in to OurChart about her grandmother. It seems that Grandma lived in Germany, and the writer had lost touch. She asked if it was possible for anyone in the area to check up on her grandmother’s whereabouts. Someone did. www.ozarksstar.com �INDIGO GIRLS Continued Gate" and "Tether." Amy, when you’re playing solo with a tight back up band (3FiveHuman came back out and did a great job rocking with the Girls) let it rip. But Amy, from one southern girl to another, hold off: on the tabasco when Emily is with you and pass that Girl a little honey. Okay, while I am at it, here’s another request: please use your position up there on stage to tell us something of your take on reality and world events. I know we can get on your website (wv~w.indigogirls.com) and read your notes and watch your podcasts and that is great. Few performers have as much interaction as that with their fans. But the live stage is a powerful medium in and of itself for communication and transforming the world. Now back to my original pondering. Do I demand too much of two brilliant musicians who seem to be conveying to their audience that they just want to sing their songs and play their music with no intellectual interaction with their audience or each other about any of it? I don’t know. I wanted to hear from them outside their lyrics, brilliant as they are. I wanted to hear the big picture of what is going on in the world as they see it. I mean, I can hardly afford to get off the farm once a year. I need to hear from someone who sees it all. What is their take on it all? \gho do they endorse for 2008? What do they want from us? What is the revolution of the next 10 years? Should transgendered women be allowed in at Michigan? Do their songs ever end up meaning more to them than they meant to say in the first place? Are they ever confused by their own lyrics? Is the Goddess channeling through them? Have we truly already been saved Emily? And finally, maybe every lesbian in Georgia knows the answer to this one but I am in the dark: were you two ever girlfriends? It doesn’t really matter on that last one. I know from their songs that they have a real love for each other and I know from the fact that I have every CD they ever recorded that I love them and that they will have my devotion forever. Sing on, play on, and know you are on your way to rock and roll Heaven and you take us there with you but please, Girls, as long as you’re live on stage and we are live in the audience, open up a little and talk to us about it all. We’re listening. www, ozarksstar.com Divas pack the for HOPE By Joey De TULSA, OK __ Nobody likes a diva, but for Tulsa based H.O.RE. testing clinic, there are several Divas that they can’t help but love. For the sixth year, several of Tulsa’s greatest performers, led by Queen Diva Rebecca Ungerman, came together to produce HOPE’s largest annual fundraiser "Divas Live ." Held at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center, this year’s event shattered previous records. "In our budget, we have to raise around $80,000 that is not subsidized by grant funds. This year, ’Divas’ will conservatively be around $50,000 of that," says Kate Neary-Pounds, HOPE’s Executive Director (Exact totals for the evening were not available at the time of the interview). "These funds literally go to keep the doors open." Neary- Pounds explains that the event is critical because the organization does not receive funds from groups such as United \ray. "In 2006 the Department of Health had a massive funding cut and programs such as our quick tests and 24 hour STD hotline were in jeopardy. Fortunately, we received a grant from the George Kaiser Family Foundation to keep the hotline open, but the funds from the show go to help pay for everything else," Neary-Pounds explains. Ungerman, who has been involved with the show for several years is ovetwhelmed by the public’s response and embracement of the event. "We have had to turn people away at the door the last two years. It’s great. I remember the first year we did it and we were excited that we raised $1,200 and could buy desks," Ungerman explains. A large contributor to the evening’s success has been the healthy growth of the auctions. "We grossed $25,000 from our auctions. A large part of that is the addition of Jay Litchfield to the formula. We’re very lucky to have him on board." Ungerman says that they are looking at ways to expand the event, but not sure what form it will take. "The PAC has been wonderful to us all these years, but have to look at how we are going to change and grow. We don’t have a clue what those changes are going to look like yet, but this is a year round planning process." If you xvoald like more information about HOPE’s services or to make a contribution, visit their xvebsite at www.hopetesting.org or ca~ 749-TEST. HRC Coming Out Kits NOW- AVAILABLE for National Coming Out Day 2007. Get ready to "Talk About It" on October 11, NCOD ! The theme for National Coming Out Day 2007 will be Talk About It, continuing the slogan and branding that the national program has been building since 2005. National Coming Out Day is a time to celebrate openness and honesty whether you came out 20 minutes ago, or 20 years ago this is a time for all Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Straight supportive people to Talk About It with friends, family and coworkers. Coming Out Day Kits include: Resource Guides to Coming Out Straight Guides to GLBT Americans Transgender Coming Out Guides Poster, Balloons and HRC Stickers And everything else you’ll need to celebrate living openly! To order your kit, please visit: www.hrc.org/comingoutkits This year will also mark an important hallmark as National Coming Out Day, falls on the 20th anniversary of the 1987 Gay and Lesbian March on Washington, and the unfurling of the MDS Quilt on the National Mall. The very first National Coming Out Day was celebrated a year to the day later as a way of continuing the spirit of openness, honesty and visibility that the March and the MDS Quilt presentation inspired. The STAR 23 ���WOW EXCELLENT FINE THANKS NICE GLOWING BRILLIANT SUPER ~here will not be a lot of thinking involved in today’s health and fitness column. I have been advised by my colleague Jebediah to make this an easy and happy "thing" to read. He also wants to help you look forward to your hard exercising routines. Jebedial~ is a first grader at Grover Cleveland Elementary and he came ui~ with the theme for this week’s fitness incentive. Jebby, as he is called by his contemporaries, wants you to grab a pen and paper and write a positive or happy word each time you finish a workout or exercise routine. Keep it in a place you can see every day. He thinks that people will be excited about working out if they know there will be a compilation of fun and happy words they can look at after the hard work. I like the concept and I have been given permission to use it. The Rocky Road Baskin Robbins double scoop cone consulting fee was well worth the advice from Jebby. Here are some of my recent happy thoughts Peter Pan .... HAPPY SMILING GOOD WELL REFR£SHED FANTASTIC YES SUNSHINE AWESOME SMASHING PRETTY BRIGHT GORGEOUS BEAMING HANDSOME BEAUTIFUL FIT DELICIOUS REJUVENATED GREAT ALIVE JOY PEACEFUL SERENE I am already looking forward to tomorrow’s happy consonant and vowel combination. It is the little things in life that can help us all get by and can help you with your health and fitness regimens. Keep it simple Simon ..... or rather Jebby! This bit of health and fitness advice brought to you by the guy who has been kid-tested and mother approved. That guy is Ron Blake and he can be unearthed at www. goblakefitness.com. VERY WELL. 2. LET AND MINUTE. 4. STRMN IN 2 CHILLED MARTINI GLASSES. 5. TOP WITH ATEASPOON OF WHIPPED CREAM AND CINNAMON STICK. 6. CUDDLE UP "WITH SO,LEONE SPECIAL AND EN|OY. HAPPY HALLOWE COOL 26 the STAR wwa,.ozarksstar.com �ANGLES OKC Continued As times changed and business declined, the club began operating only on weekends, and later opened monthly for special events. After being on the market for several months, the dub was sold to Nick Post, owner of the bars of the Habana Inn ( Copa, Finishline Ledo & Gushers Restaurant). Preceding the sale was a farewell party August 25 followed by a tea dance the next day for partiers who had made Angles what it was, before the club passed into a new destiny. Interview xgrith The New Owner of Angles, Nick Post. Victor: Well, finally now is it is done deal right? Post: It’s a done deal. We had inspections, licenses, which had all cleared by September 1. Victor: You now own Angles, the building, the business & the name? Post: Yes, and the website too, and the phone number is the same. Victor: What spurred your interest in wanting acquire Angles? Nick: Well two months ago I’d have probably said I didn’t have any interest in acquiring it. It just happened all of the sudden, when a customer had heard Scott (Wilson) was interested in selling Angles and I ought to check into it. I met with him, made a dea!, signed a contact, and the deal closed. Victor: Business had been slow at Angles for a long time before it closed. How do you feel you can avoid the problems they had, to build the business back up? Nick: In the beginning we’re probably only going to be open on Fridays and Saturdays. I want Angles to find its own niche, I’m not looking for Angles to take business from the Copa or the Finishline. I want it so people can walk back and forth, not have to stand in line. Angles will be different than the Copa, but we’re not yet sure what that will be. By the first of the year we hope we’l! know ~vhat niche it should have. Copa will continue to have shows, it’s set up to be a showbar, although Angles may handle large pageants or special events. wvwv.ozarksstar.com Victor: So when wil! Angles have their grand re-opening? will be that people can walk back and forth and enjoy both places. Nick: We’re not certain yet, but it will be before Halloween. I’m truly excited about what we can offer with the Habana and the 39tb Street Strip, and I think Scott and Donny set the standards for the clubs on the Strip, and I’m proud to be there. I also recognize that they helped make possible what we have now, when I actually had a call from a captain of the police department for this area, asking if there had been any trouble from police officers, were they professional cordial, etc. I was glad to be able to tell them that they do act correctly, and they know we run good clubs here. Victor: You’ve been in the bar business quite a while. When did you first acquire the Copa, along with the Finishline, Ledo and Gushers Restaurant? Nick: It was October of 2007 when I bought them from Lee Burrus. They were already successful, but I think their continued success is largely due to the tremendous staff we have. We have over 40 people working hard here, changing things, bringing in new ideas, keep it different all the time. I think that’s the biggest factor in our success. Victor: Well we wish you success in carrying on what the Pmgles has always been, and will mean in the future. Victor: Out of sheer curiosity, what did you do before you wound up in the bar business? Nick: I was in real estate from the time I was 19 years old. I started working with Abide, and when Truman Miller sold Abide I went ,vith him into commercial development. I then did mergers and acquisitions with Charles Bazzzarian. When he went to prison I was out of a job, so Lee Burrus offered me one here. Although we thought it would be temporary, I worked for Lee for 6 years. I had never been in the bar business, or ever thought I would be. Victor: That’s quite a change. How did you adapt? That is about as much like an apple and an orange as you can get. Nick: I think it’s easier to go from a conventional job to the bar business than it would be the other xvay around. I started in the office, started managing on Mondays, later on weekends, and it ~vent from there. Victor: Do you anticipate much straight patronage? Nick: Straight people have always been welcome in my bars if they act right. Our goal is to let people know that they are welcome, but in our gays clubs they are on our turfi Victor: How have you handled the many rumors about the change? Nick: Well there have been many, but one rumor we can put to rest is that the purchase of Angles has nothing to do with my other bars or the Habana Inn. I still have many years left on my lease at the Habana, and the Seikels (Habana’s owners) have no interest in selling the hotel. The only change Creating Community for People living with HW/A DS A 501 c (3) Non Profit Organization Our House, Too offers a vadety of activities for people who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves. We invite anyone who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail hardsmmjr@yahoo.com. the STAR 27 �Even sweetness and light can be excessive. With the Sun and Venus in a long, difficult aspect - and in each other’s signs - overdoing the good stuff comes way too easily and can leave us feeling sunburned and saccharine. ARIES (~,~arch 2(} -Apri~ 19): Does your partner want to take the lead or to follow? Baby does want to play, but may be a pushy bottom. (There’s another kind?) Be very clear about who’s really running the show, especially if it’s not stated. TAURUS (Apri~ 20 - ~aay 20): Be very careful of your diet, especially your sugar intake. If there’s any diabetes in your family, get yourself checked out. Resist the urge to decorate, or look at what’s behind it. Is it a distraction from more figurative "housecleaning"? GEM~Ni (~lay 21 - Jmle 29): Write, paint, compose your heart out. It’s all dreck, even if your friends tell you it’s fabulous. They’re just being nice. Later on, when your critical faculties return, something good could come out of all the fertilizer you’re excreting now. SAGITTARIUS/November 22 - December 20}: Your friends know how outspoken you are, and how you love to argue - excuse me - "exchange new ideas." Your current enthusiasm will charm some people and scare others off. You may want to be careful about whom you push into either category. CAPRICORN (December 21 - January t9): You are now exuding pure sexuality. Horny, jaded, or anywhere in between, you are radiating sex. At work, that can cause trouble. Do your best to sublimate that energy and/or enjoy it in the appropriate time and place. AQUARIUS (January 29 - February !8}: You want adventure, but not solo. You and your partner want different things, but are too eager to appease each other, and that satisfies nobody. Find a common ground where you can both be a little selfish and have a great time. P~SCES (February 19 - ~aarch 19): You don’t need to show off or work on your erotic expertise - but why pass up the fun? Finding eager partners is not a problem. Limiting yourself to an appropriate partner may be! CANCER (June 2t - Ju~y 22): Sure, you want your home to be utterly gorgeous. Risking the rent or mortgage by spending a wad on decoration is a bit counterproductive. Get creative with what you have, or raise money selling off old clutter. LEO (Ju~y 23 - August 22): You could easily be too charming, tempting others to doubt your sincerity. Just be your natural, sweet self. That’s already a lot for many people to handle! Cultivate modesty, and remember: The flower charms the bee without effort. WRGO (August 23 - September 22): Being helpful with your insight and suggestions seems a charming idea to you, but others may find it meddlesome. Ask if you can offer help before you actually do. Better yet, put yourself in their shoes, and invite critical support. LIBRA (September 23 - October 22}: Your political talents are already working overtime for you. It would be much too easy to overplay your hand. Sit back, pay attention, and move lightly. Before you offer anything, let them want it! SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): Your instincts are better than good for making connections with superiors at work or getting on the right side of any authority figure. In fact, you may be a bit overenthusiastic and pushy. Where’s that discreet, subtle Scorpion we love so well? METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES Rev Steve T. U~ie Spiri ol Chris tViCC 2g02 E 20th Street Joplin, MO 64804 417-529-8480 Worship Saturdays at 10:00 AM Community Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM MCC of the Living Spring 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays at 6:00 PM Have a God filled and BleSSed DaV! 28 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �HABANA INN 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-528-2221 www.habanainn.com KELLY KIRBY, CPA 4815 S. HARVARD, SUITE 424 Tulsa, OK * 918-747-5466 Certified Public Accountant CENTURY 21 GOLD CASTLE 3627 NW EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405-840-2106 ~wcw.c21 goldcastle.com CHUCK BRECKENRIDGE Keller Williams Realty Tulsa, OK 918-706-1887 GAY BRADY HEIGHTS-Tulsa New and Historic Homes for Sale and Rent For Info: www.gaybradyheightstulsa.com GUSHER’S Pd~STAURANT 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 Located inside Habana Inn ANGLES 2117 NW 39th St. Oklahoma City, OK www.anglesclub.com BAMBOO LOUNGE 7204 E. PINE Tulsa, OK 918-836-8700 www.bambooloungetulsa.com CLUB MAJESTIC 124 N. BOSTON Tulsa, OK 918-584-9494 www.clubmajestictulsa.com www.ozarksstar.corn FINISHLINE 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE COPA 2200 N~V 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE LEDO 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESS\rAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com TNT’S 2114 S. MEMORIAL DR. Tulsa, OK 918-660-056 Open Wed- Fri 6pm, Sat 8pm DIVERSITY CHRISTIAN CNTR 211 S. Garnett Tulsa, OK 74128 wvcw.realacceptance.com HERLAND SISTER’S 2312 N~V 39th St Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405-521-9696 HOPE TESTING CLINIC 3540 E. 31st Tulsa, OK 800-535-2437 Oklahoma’s HIV/STD Hotline SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC 2902 E. 20TH STREET, Joplin, MO * 479-529-8480 Service Saturday 9:30 AM Want the STAR delivered to your home or business? 12 issues for $29.95 will be mailed in a sealed envelope the 1st of each month. Complete the form below and send with a check or moneyorder to: ¯ne STAR 5103 S. Sheridan Rd., #153 Tulsa, OK 74145 MCC of the LIVING SPRING 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays 6pm NW ARKANSAS GLBT CENTER Bentonville/Rogers 888-391-9222 W~W~.NWAG LBTCC. ORG (Single Copies $3.00 per issue) NAME: Address: City:. Phone: DIVERSITY PRIDE EVENTS 479-253-2555 Eureka Springs, AR www.diversitypride.com Check enclosed Money Order Start Date: St: Zip: �Keller Williams Realty Chuck Breckenridge Whether buying or selling I’ll work hard for you. NW Arkansas GLBT Communig- Center "Linking Together as One" For more information: 888-391-9222 WWW.NWAGLBTCC.ORG 30 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �mad~ and sc{ence And more an iu yot~r-k www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 31 �;:’ I:he rr, sg � Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data magazine Text Any textual data included in the document 1 (2437) Oklahoma’s HIV/$TD Hottine PROTECT YOURSELF PROTECT YOUR PAR (S) Center on Tuesdays from 6-Spin H.O.RE. Testing ~er~s Outreach Prograr~ tn Tulsa at (9t8) 812~7045 2 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com Local and Regional O cials Featured The New Advocate. By Steve VanHook OKLAHOMA CITY, OK __ Xhe new 40th Anniversary Issue of Xhe Advocate features six gay and lesbian elected officials in an article entitled "Great American Lives: The Trailblazers". Oklahoma’s A! McAffrey, Arkansas’ Kathy Webb, and Alabama’s Patricia Todd, state representatives all, are joined by Guy Padgett, former mayor of Casper, Wyoming, State Senator and progressive Democrat Jolie Justus of Missouri, and Dallas County Sheriff Lupe Valdez. The article and photos begin on Page 78 of the September 25th, 2007, issue, written by Paul Florez in NYC and Padraie Wheeler. In an introduction to the article with the heading "Doing It For Ourselves", the authors write: "After decades of pounding on the walls of government, fighting to be heard, gays and lesbians have finally secured positions inside those walls. There are currently more than 370 openly gay elected officials natiomvide, with at least 100 more expected to run in 2008. Meet six trailblazers who ran as openly gay candidates and won---in red states, no less." The piece on McAffrey reads: "Al McAffrey, 59, has lived a life of service. Before becoming a legislator, he had careers in both the Navy and the Oklahoma City Police Department. McAffrey said his sexuality wasn’t a central issue during his race for the District 88 seat in the Oklahoma State House, but that changed one day when he knocked on the door of a house displaying his opponent’s sign on the front lawn. "The guy said, ’I have only one question to ask you: Are you gay?’" recalls McAffrey. "And I thought, Oh, shit, how am I going to answer this? Well, I’m a pretty point-blank guy, so I said, ’Yeah, I’m gay. Does that mean you’re not going to vote for me?’ He looked at me and said, ’No, I am going to vote for you, because you’re honest." "The man tood down the opponent’s sign right there and then. Step it up to fight AIDS By Joey De TULSA, OK __ Lace up your walking shoes and head to Veterans Park Sat. Oct. 6 to join the fight against MDS. The fifteenth annual walk will step offat 9 a.m. from the park located at 21st street and Boulder avenue. The two mile route will take walkers along Riverside to 31st and then return to Veterans Park. Funds raised by the Tulsa AIDS walk go directly to supporting Tulsa’s National AIDS Fund Americorp team. The five person team provides prevention, testing and outreach services through out the Tulsa community. Tulsa is one of the few cities in the country that ...........Continued page 13 wvcw.ozarksstar.com the STAR 3 STATE SENATORANDREW RICE ANNOUNCES HIS RUN FOR U.S. SENATE Indigo Girls descend on Tulsa at the Historic Cains Ballroom. The Advocate - the oldest continuously published U.S. gay periodical still in existence - has chronicled the history and culture of the LGBT community for 40 years. Ever simply smell a wine before you taste it? What does it smell like to you? Check out the color too. fl~ c,Ao T~V~- Gay Travelers: Colorado Out of Town: Samta Fe. NM Dining In or OUT Maybe it’s my age - 50 is just around the corner (oy!). Maybe it’s because I’ve been in a relationship since I was 18 (mind you, that means serial monogamy F~T~ESS Introspection can lead you to better understand yourself and ultimately to achieve greater happiness. ON THE COVER: Indigo Girls 4 the STAR STAR DISTRIBUTION: OKLAHOMA CITY * TULSA * LAWTON * MCALESTER * ENID * LITTLE ROCK * NORTH LITTLE RODK * FAYETTEVILLE * FT SMITH * EUREKA SPRINGS * HOT SPRINGS * BENTONVILLE * ROGERS * KANSAS CITY * SPRINGFIELD * JOPLIN * BRANSON AREA* WICHITA * PITTSBURG * JUNCTION CITY ~.~v.ozarksstar.com STATE SENATOR ANDREWANNOUNCES HIS RUN FOR U.S. SENATE By Victor Gorin OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__ QUOTE: "I’m humble as I go through this. I want the people of the state to get to know me, I want to know what their aspirations are, the things they want to see reformed. " Longtime LGBT ally Andrew Rice announced through press conferences & fundraisers that he is running for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by James Inhofe. Together with his wife Apple and their 2 sons, Parker & Noah, he let Oklahomans know where he stands and why he wanted the job. He currently holds the seat for State Senate District 46, elected to that position in 2006. That seat was previous held by Bernest Cain, who likewise was a staunch ally of the GLBT community as well as many other progressive causes but~ had to leave office due to term limits. ~,~rw.ozarksstar.corn At his press conference at the Oklahoma State Democratic Party Headquarters, he touched on many issues facing our country and how he wanted to make a difference, including global xvarming, national security, fiscal responsibility, and a major lack of trust Americans feel for their government. As he puts it: "It’s pretty remarkable the amount of disgruntlement, and really the lack of faith people have in government. I think they feel a lot of anxiety not only because of the complexities we deal with like terrorism and . the health care crisis, but even basic good government practices." He stressed that his life experiences, especially his work in an evenly divided Oklahoma State Senate had given him the know-how of how to work with Republicans and yet stick to his principles. He stated, "Robert S. Kerr, Henry Bellmon and David Boren had a trait in common that they were able to find common ground and get things done for our state when it needed to be done. I think that’s something I can do as a proud Democrat and know where my line in the sand is." Referring to skepticism some people have due to his youth, Andrew pointed out that Oklahoma has a long history of younger candidates who have been elected, including Don Nickles, who was younger than Andrew when he was elected to the U. S. Senate in 1980. "The experience that we talk about with politics, there’s a lot of that experience I don’t want. Being beholden to special interests, getting stuck in your ways, being a career politician, being inflexible and not able to see things from another viewpoint, that’s the experience that has taken us down the wrong road in his country. " The incumbent, James Inhofe, was first elected to the U.S. Senate seat in 1994 with a special election when David Boren left the office to take the presidency of Oklahoma University He was re-elected to a full term in 1996 and again in 2002. He has become well known for extreme rightwing positions, including opposition to gay rights, total support our military involvement in Iraq, opposition to any minimum wage increase or support for organized labor, and calling global warming "a hoax." Andrew closed by pointing out that he wants to give Oklahomans an option if they want a change. the STAR 5 Democrats Need Negative Resuks in traq. Dear Editor: The national Democratic Congressional leadership believes failure by our troops in Iraq the central front in the War on Terror is essential for them to win elections in 2008, and that any positive sign of progress in Iraq is simply a "problem" for them. Democrat Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, driven by polls and politics, declared "This war is lost," even before the President’s new strategy began. Reid also has bragged, "We’re going to pick up Senate seats as a result of this war." And Democrat House Majority Whip James Ctyburn said that a positive report in September from General Petraeus and Ambassador to Iraq Ryan Crocker would be "a real big problem for us (Democrats)." Meaning the Democrats’ desire for an arbitrary troop withdrawal and their party’s 2008 electoral fortunes would be in jeopardy if our troops succeed. Is it aW wonder that the new Democratic controlled Congress has far lower approval ratings than the President? Let’s not forget that there are thousands of gay and lesbian troops fighting the M Queda terrorists in Iraq; courageously risking their lives against a violent worldwide ideology that has no regard for the lives of gay people in the Middle East or any where else in the world. These gay and lesbian soldiers from our community are true American heroes and deserve our unwavering patriotic respect. America’s national security should not be kicked around like a political football by the Far Left in Gay America. Many gays believe winning the War on Terror is vital to our country’s national security. It is unconscionable that Democrat leaders, and many gay activists, are hoping for our troops to fail so their part,i can gain a political advantage. And it is unacceptable that the leading Democrat presidential contenders, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, both claim to support our troops yet voted against providing them with the resources to sustain their mission and keep them safe. Respectfully submitted, Matthew Veritas Tsien Former Air Force Executive Officer Low-maintenance bait for entrapment ? Dear Readers, Not being one who has ever solicited anonymous, or even well-known, sexual liaisons in public settings, I wasn’t aware of the Larry Craig foot-tapping dance which seems so imitative of certain insects that tap on leaves and stems to communicate either territorial limits or a need for mating. Thanks to Senator Craig America has received a birds-and-bees nature lore lesson hitherto known only to a relatively few wildlife specialists. But I do know there is a wafting of sexual pheromones in public par~ after dark at certain locations in Oklahoma City (OKC), Will Rogers Park being one of them. I recently attended a neighborhood political event at Will Rogers Park that, after I had helped pack up the event, found me walking back to my car after dark at 8:30pm. I had parked at the botanical greenhouse thinking the event I was attending was located in that area. ............................Continued page 15 6 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com wY~w.ozarksstar.com the STAR 7 Re~gnized by Keller Williams For outstanding ad~levernent 2005 and 2006 Chuck Breckenddge 918-706-1887 OCTOBER 11, 1987 Gay and Lesbian March on Washington and~ ur~ting of ~he AIOS Quilt on the Na~al MS]I OCTOBER 11, 2007 National Comir~ Out Day 405.840.2106 MLS. Let us promote your business in a UNIQUE & DIVERSE market. Call STAR ADVERTISING today. (918)835-7887 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com AFTER 25 YEARS THE ANGLES OKC TORCH IS PASSED ON OK]~AHOMA CITY, OK When A~gles opened in Augast of 1982 it was a great beginning that made its mark in history, ql~e club had an tmustml beginning when Scott Wdion applied for a gquor license for what was presented to be "Cotton- Eyed Joe’s,~ a country dmaee b~r. When they opened as a gay disco named Angles, problems quickly began.. The club and thei~ customers were subjected to a vigorous campaign of police harassment, with officers frequendy raiding the club, citing them for bogus violations, along with ~rresring customers ~md sometimes beating them as well Angles fought baclq keeping track of the incidents, including badge & tag numbers as well as the police officers havolved, ~ad threatened to sue the city. A deal was forged with the city where Angles was awarded one dollar in damages plus some of the legal ll~s, and the City agreed to cease harassing the dub and their customers. The story made national news, and also w~s the major story of the first issue of the Gayly Oldahom~ a in October of 1983. It £so proved to be a major turning point, with club ovmers of the ~ea having a good relationship with the police, and the overall climate changhag. Other gay bars followed as well as other buxinesses catering to the GLBT commuuiry, with many people remembering this courageous stand that was a major factor making it possible. Throughout the 80’S and 90’s Angles became a showcase & the In place to be, replacing the Free Spirit as OKC’S premier gay d~nce spot. Disco divas from that time remember world class DJ’S including the late Michael Tchekerades (fondly knovm as Checkers). Angles hosted major entertainers including Boy George, the Wcathergirls ("It’s Rainhag Men), Dead or Alive, Jermifer Holhday,Divine, Paul Lekakis, Gloria Gaynor, Viola Wigs & celebrated their 19th anniversarg with Bonnie Pointer.lt was a memorable occasion when comedienne Joan Rivers enjoyed a portrayal ofhersehc performed by the late Amii Dyshea. Their Turnabout Shows (where their employees got in deag) benefited AIDS charities aad becanae honored traditions for our community Much of our local talent was bolstered as well, including diva~ including Ghager hamar, Raahad Erikks, and the dynamic duo of Parr] & Tuna Melt (Tuna better known internarionaBy as cBef Ruby Ann Boxcar with patty her sister Donna Sue). Countless pageants were held there, with most of the past Miss Gay Oklahoma’s crowned there. The club also garnered respect from the straight community as well, gaining so much of their patronage that Angles was voted OKC’S Best Dance Club ha the Oklahoma Gazette several times, as well as the Best Gay Bar many times as well. ...............Cont~ued page 27 Love of Last Resort www,ozarksstancom the STAR 9 LINDSAY PAIGE TAKES THE CROWN By Victor Gorin Photo ~ Victor Gorin, Left Melody Michaels, Right Lindsay Paige OKLAHOMA C!’YY, OK __ The iudges had the work cut out for them they }udged the wildly talented contestants at the Copa August 22-23, but Lindsay Paige survived the comperifion of some of Oklahoma most talented divas to capture the title of Miss Gay Oklahoma for 2007. Having won the distinction of I st alternate last year, her reaction upon hearhag her name as the winner clearly was ruth of heaven. The first alternate was Melody Michaels, a performer well known in Oklahoma City for her shows with Kitty Bob ALines and Ginger Lamar at the Boom. Tncy wl]l go to Memphis to compete for the crown of Miss Gay Ainerica October 17-21. Willa Johnson Wins Oklahoma Count Commissioner District One. OKLAHOMA CITY, OK With the conclusion of die special crat Willa Johnson, ~von handily wirh 54% of the vote over arch Ms.Johnson has served on the Oklahoma City Councg for Ward 7 since 1993. In her position she acted cnnsistendy in support of issues concerning the GLBT comnmdity, voting in support of an ordinate prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation, opposed banning the GLBT banners during Gay Pride Month, and she opposed die abolition of the Oklahoma City Human Rights Commission. She has become well k~own for her outspoken opposition to discrimination. 10 the STAR Oklahomans for Equality opens "Out ofthe Closet: A T-Shirt Retrospective" at Dennis R. Neill Equality Center gallery TULSA, OK (PR)__ Toe Dennis IL Negl Equahty Center art gallery will host its monthly meet-the-artist reception from 6-9pro, qTaursday, October 4, 2007, for the opening of its October exhibit, "Out of the Closet". qqae show will be a retrospective of LGBT diemed T-Shins, a private collection of former gifx-shop owner Tom Neal, The displayed shirts, both regional aa~d international, wig offer a gfo~apse L~to the history of the gay rights movement as seen through T-Shirt design. The opening reception wg! be catered by donation from Brother’s Pizza Depot. q~e exhibit will remain up through die month of October, and can be viewed Monday thru Saturday from 3-9pro. The Dennis K Neig Equality Center is located ar 62I E. 4th St., in downtown Tulsa, More info can be found of die web at okeq.org. Tlxls monthly event is hosted by Oklahoman’s for Equality (OkEq). OkEq seeks equal rights for Lesbian= Gay, Bisexual & Transg~nder (LGBT) individuals and families through advocacy, education, programs, agiances, and the operation of the Dennis R. Neifi Equality 2007 Miss America Lauren Nelson Headlines AIDS Walk of Oklahoma City OKLAHOMA CI~ (PR) __ Oklahoma’s own Lauren Nelson, who is the reigning 2007 Miss America, wi~ serve as the Grand Marshag of the upcoming MDS xYSalk of Oklahoma City. The Walk will take place o~ StmdaB September 30 at the Myriad Bormaical Gardens. Registration and festivities begin at 12:30pmfoliowed by a 2:00pm step off. There is no fee to walk in this important community event, which builds awareness and f~nds each year for die treatment and prevention of HIV/AIDS i~ the greater Oklahoma City area. Southwes~ Ah-lines has generously donated two roundtrip aidine tickets to any Southwest Airlines desrSnation in the Continental U.S. to be raffled offat the Walk. Ra~e tickets are only $1 each and may be purchased either at the AIDS Walk on September 30, or by contacting Lfoda Larason at 405/570-4835. One need not be Form your Walk team now and bring your donations to the 2007 MDS Walk of Oklahoma City. Visit www.aidswalkokc, org for more information. Photo by Leda Dowlearn .s DesCend By Leda Dowlearn worth watching. The Girls’ -warm up band, 3FiveHuman out ofAtlanta, was a good rocking start. By the time they were finished the expectant energy of the crowd was at a ftenzy. Then the roar, suddenly the Gifts were there before us, guitars in motion, singing "Pendulum Swinger" (sure hope Hilary Clinton does adopt this as her theme song but she’d probably be too afraid to swing this far left). After that, it was song after song after song with hardly a break in between except to change guitars and grab a mandolin, banjo or harmonica. One thing I realized early on was that the Girls were not into stage presence. We heard a little banter about getting lost in Tulsa, enjoying the old YMCA, and their bassett hound on the bus but that was about it. Perhaps in a nod to location Amy Ray had on a western cowgirl shirt. But overall, the Girls were there to do their songs. TULSA, OK __ On September 13th the Indigo Girls, icons of the feminist folk./rock music scene, descended on Cain’s Ballroom in Tulsa to the full-house, floor-stomping adoration of a mostly lesbian crowd. The day the Girls came to my part of the universe I was in a closet (not my usual place) replacing a water heater thinking about the amazing fact that I had tickets to finally, that day, see these two demi-goddesses in the flesh after slavishly worshiping their musical personas for the past twenty years. In between hot and cold water pipes I was fantasizing about all the questions I’d love to ask them say should we run into each other in the bathroom or something Next step: I called Cain’s Ballroom and invoked the power of the media to get someone’s attention and, bless their hearts, an hour later I was talking with the Girls’ publicity" agent who said she’d see what she could do to set something up after sound check. That was enough for me. \VC’ater heater be damned, my partner and I hightailed it out of Northwest Arkansas headed for Tulsa town four hours early. Well, the bubble burst shortly after we hit the outskirts ofTulsa when their publicity agent had to tell me it was a no go on the interview. I was a little too late with my request and the Girls turned me down. That was okay, though, I still had my camera, two tickets and the evening was before us. This was my first visit to Cain’s Ballroom but I was up on their history after a review of their website. The feel of the place was cool, the line at the bar was friendly and the gathering crowd was well Okay, that was the Nirvana part and maybe I should stop there. It was more than enough. But in retrospect, that time of second thoughts that comes to you over coffee at Denny’s after your ears have stopped ringing, this die hard fan has some things to say that may or may not be more than I should be asking of the Girls, but here it goes anyway. Yeah, I got some great pictures and I heard some great songs. But they were all delivered to me in one big load of too much sound and too much rock without letting the songs that really needed to roll just roll. Can you Girls not trust that your audience is sophisticated enough to hear you on many levels? After all, yours is a mostly lesbian crowd. Emotional roller coasters are no problem for us. You can take us up and down so relax a little with that. Amy, yeah, you’re a rocker and you’re a star. No question in my mind that many of your songs are destined to be classics. You’re my Dylan, you’re my Springsteen. Rock on but know we love your slow songs, too, and I really, really wanted to hear "Three County Highway," "Nueva Senorita," or "Moment of Forgiveness." Emily, you’re brilliant with your lyrics and your melodies but you look like you don’t want to be in the circus anymore. You’re Baez, you’re Mitchell in your roots. But is it possible for Mitchell and Springsteen to share the same stage without each doing serious damage to the other’s genre and landing musically somewhere in the "upper echelons of mediocrity" as you have said yourself in "You and Me of the !0,000 Wars." Amy is ready and willing to jump into the chaos of rock and her songs have the energy and intensity it demands. She proved this brilliantly in her show stopper versions of "Rock And Roll Heaven’s ...............Continued page 23 www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 11 31 iCONS SELECTED FOR GLBT HISTORYMONTH 2007 Alexander the Great, BillieJean King, Leonardo da ~nci, Bessie Smith, Cary Grant among Icons PHILADELPHIA, PA __ Equality Forum, an international gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) civil rights organization, announced 31 Icons to be featured during GLBT History Month in October. ~he 31 Icons achieved success within their respective fields of endeavor, were national heroes or advanced GLBT civil rights. "The GLBT community has been uniquely disadvantaged by not being taught its history at home, in public schools or in religious institutions," said Malcolm Lazin, Executive Director of Equality Forum. "GLBT History Month helps teach our unacknowledged history, provides role models and celebrates contributions made by GLBT individuals to our country and internationally." The Icon videos are available for free for the Web sites of nonprofit organizations, educational institutions and corporate entities, through the inclusion ofHTML code provided at wwv.glbtHistoryMonth. com. The Icon video is automatically updated each day. A free graphically-designed downloadable biography, bibliography and other educational resources for each Icon are available at www. glbtHistoryMonth.com. The 31 Icons from 2006 can also be found on the Web site. Equality Forum solicited nominations from leaders of national and international GLBT organizations. Nominees were evaluated by GLBT History Month Co-Chairs Rev. Nancy Wilson, Moderator of the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches, and Prof. Kenji Yoshino, Deputy Dean for Intellectual Life at Yale Law School. Equality Forum’s Board of Directors approved the final slate of 31 Icons. 12 the STAR Equality Forum produced 30-second biographical videos on each Icon, which will be broadcast daily on here! and Logo television networks throughout October, and will be streamed on major GLBT Web sites. Comcast will air a 30-second television PSA. Equality Forum launched GLBT History Month in 2006, and is patterned after Black and Vgomen’s History Months. tn its initial year, GLBT History Month reached over 500,000 individuals. GLBT History Month 2007 Icons: October 1: Leonard Bernstein (Composer) October 2: Annie Leibovitz (Photographer) October 3: Angela Davis (Civil Rights Activist) October 4: Alexander the Great (Military Commander) October 5: Billie Jean King (Athlete) October 6: Pedro Almodovar (Writer/Director) October 7: Bessie Smith (Singer) October 8: Klaus Wowereit (Politician) October 9: Susan Sontag (Author/ Commentator) October 10: Gore Vidal (Author) October 11: Lily Tomlin (Actor) October 12: Peter Gomes (Theologian) October 13: Mary Edwards Walker (Surgeon) October 14: Frederick II (Monarch) October 15: Virginia Uribe (Educator) October t 6: Frank Kameny (Gay Pioneer) October 17: Nancy Mahon (Philanthropy Advocate) October 18: David Hockney (Painter) October 19: Audre Lorde (Author) October 20: Cary Grant (Actor) October 21: Rende Richards (Transgender Pioneer) October 22: Sherry Harris (Politician) October 23: John Maynard Keynes (Economist) October 24: Gertrude Stein (Author) October 25: Pioneer) October 26: tist) October 27: October 28: October 29: October 30: October 31: Zhou Dan (Chinese Gay Carolyn Bertozzi (Scien- Cole Porter (Songwriter) John McNeill (Theologian) Florence Nightingale (Health Care Advocate) Billy Sipple (Hero) Leonardo da Vinci (Artist/Inventor/Scientist) ABOUT EQUALITY FORUM Equality Forum is a national and international nonprofit, 501 (c)(3) GLBT civil rights organization with an educational focus. Equality Forum develops high-impact educational content in the form of documentary films, history projects, innovative initiatives and the largest annual national and international GLBT civil rights forum. www.equalityforum.com www.ozarksstar.com vw,’w.ozarksstar.com Playwright!ActorJerry Rabus a Back OKC with "Love OfLast Resoi-t If you’re a gay guy trapped for three years done on an abandoned and deserted sex resort, what could be better than having the man of your dreams wash up ashore? It’s a love story "waiting to happen.., or... is it? That’s the whole premise of "Love of Last Resort." Josh, played by author Jerry Rabushka, has been living alone on an uncharted South Pacific isle for quite some time. No electricity, no running water, no man for company. How does he do it? Easy! He consults back issues of Martha Stewart Living, follows the instructions, and can make anything he needs, usually in three easy steps. If you’re lost and alone, this is a very very good thing! Along with that, he changes personality on a regular basis. "It hurts to admit your entire persona has to be thrown out," he says. "But it’s all very ’Martha.’ You just make it out of what you got." Matt (played by Scott Mueller) couldn’t be any more opposite. An escapee from an "all gay cruise," he winds up beached on Josh’s island, pining after a man back from home, rebuffing Josh every step of the way. ’Of course you love me," he’ll say. "I’m the only choice you have." You can do some really cool stuffwhen you’re alone on an island. You can be whoever you want to be. You can see your island as a prison or an opportunity. Josh uses the island to escape; Matt isn’t sure he wants to escape, and he isn’t sure he can love Josh until he finds out who the "real Josh" is. "Matt’s a perfect foil to Josh," says Scott Mueller. "He wants to love, he wants m be in love, but he’s afraid to give up anything to do it. And like a lot of people, he tends to punish the man in front ofhim for the sins of the one who came before." As time goes by, though, Matt becomes more intrigued by Martha’s ingenuity and Josh’s world of fake TV shows. Come "watch" their interview with Gloria, a porn star with a very descriptive last name, a gaymarriage soap opera, and of course a bit of fun with a pair of handcuffs. Love OfLast Resort premiered in West Hollywood, CA, and has since played in St. Louis and Springfield, MO, with a production at Tulsa’s Nightingale Theater in January 2006. For this production, Rabushka has re-written the play with a more comedic outlook and added several cool new songs. "I always like coming to OKC," he says. "We keep coming back because we have a lot of support here and enthusiastic responses, plus the folks at the IAO Gallery are great!" Rabushka, with his company Ragged Blade, of St. Louis, MO, has previously been to the IAO with Somebody Else’s Life, Woofl. The Road Show, and Gay Christian, Gay Muslim, Gay Jew, which starred nationally known gay solo artist Jade Esteban Estrada. Love OfLast Resort book & music by Jerry Rabushka starring Jerry Rabushka & Scott Nicholas Mueller October 12 & 13 at 8 PM IAO Gallery www.iaogallery.org 811 North Broadway, Oklahoma City Tickets: $!0; $5 students & seniors for show info/reservations please call 314- 280-1035, for directions or other local info please call IAO at 405-232-6060 for more information please visit www. raggedbtade.com AIDS WALK TULSA Continued has supported a team ever since the beginning of the National AIDS fund/Americorp program. According to the Janice Nicktas, the team’s coordinator, the fimdraising goal for this year’s event is $25,000. Nicklas says the event is open to anybody who wishes to participate and says that no level of support, financial or in spirit is too small. In fact, the organizer says that there are volunteer portunities for those wishing to be a part of the event, but unable to make the trek. To register or for more information visit www.aidswalktulsa.org. Credit cards and cash donations are accepted. the STAR 13 September 1967 (40 yearn ago l st month): The Mirth renamed it Advocate in 1969, and h became the first American gay news Advocate publishes its first issue, publication with a nationwide distribution, off the sex ads into a separate pubfication. In 1996, the magazine hired its first female editor in chief, Judy Wieder, What is the history of qhe Advocate? T he Advocate - the oldest continuously published U.S. gay periodical still in exfistence - has chronicled the history and culture of the LGBT commtmity for 40 yews. Udce many of the eadiest Ametic~n gay organizations, qqae Advocate_ was born in Los Angeles. It began as the newsletter of Person£ Rights in Defense’and Education (PRIDE), a gay liberation group formed after police raided the local Black Ca~ bar. In the summer of 1967, Richard Mit~h (alia Dick Michaels) - a writer for a chemical industry journal - his lover Bill Rau (aka Bill Rand), and Sam Winston hatched a plan to turn the newilerter into a gay newspaper. Dubbed the Los Angeles Advocate. it debuted in September with a print run of 500 copies, produced at night in a print shop in the basement ofABC Studios, where Rau worked. By 1968, internal dissension led to the dissolution of PRIDE, ~nd Mitch ~rr~rged to purchase the newspaper for $1. Initially, the publication focused on local news, covering police nfisconduct mad gay liberation demonstrations. But it also added pieces on Hoflywood celebrities a~ad columns such as "Body Buddy" (fitness) and "Cooking with Atmtie LOu." Short on leshi~a content, the paper often featured scantily dad men on its covers and included a popular personal-ad section called "Trader Dizk?’ Mirth preferred to feature de,n-cut activists like the Rev. Troy Perry of the Metropolitan Cor~mauniry Church, rather than fiippie radicals llke Morris Kight, a co-founder of the Los Angeles Gay Liberation Front. In a bid to make the paper more professional, Mirth hired Rob Cole, formerly of the Dallas Times Herald, as news editor. As gay men and lesbians around the country began to look tu the paper for information, 14 ~eSTAR In 1974, Mitch sold "Die Advocate ~ millionaire investment banker David Goodstein for $350,000. After taking over, Goodstein - a se[f-descrlbed "practicing capitalist" who hated street protests and had frequent rtm ins with movement activists - fired most of the staff and writers, considering them too le ft-~ving. According to one columnist, Goodstein said he wanted the paper to appeal to "the upwardly mobile homosexual who has a home in the hills, drives a luxury car, and orders alcohol by brand." Within a year, Goodstein moved _q~e Advocate_ to the San Francisco suburb of San Maleo and liired journalist John Preston as editor. He adopted a magazine format and "desle~zified" the publication by moving the sexually explicit personal ads to the back, and eventuafly into a pull-out section. by Robert McQueen, formerly of the Salt Lake Tribune. Scandalized by McQue~’s officials came to The Advocate haadqu~rters beefed up the paper’s cultttral coverage from and Pat Califia’s ’%dvocate Adviser" column. in 1984, Goodstein moved _The Advocate_ back to Southern California. Shortly before he died of cancer the following year, he sold it to Orange County businessman Niles Merton. After McQueens resignat’on, he magazine went through a series of thorttenured editors and struggled to stay afloat. In i990, under new ethtor Richard Rouilard, the magazine added "lesbian" to the masthead. Yet even as he oversaw a remm to advocacy iournalism, Rouilard favored splashy covers featuring attractive straight male stars and divas such as Madonn~ gay community was flush with disposable cash, The Advocate’s advertising revenues rose, rescuing it from the brink of foaancial insolvenc)~ ha 1992, with a new editor and publisher, the magazine underwent another redesign, this time spinning In 2000, The Advocate’s p~ent company, Liberation Publications Inc. (LPI) - which had previously acquired book publisher Alyson Publications - purchased rival gay magazine Out, as well as HIV Plus. LH and gay Web compmay PlanetOut announced plans to merge, prompting critics to warn of an impending LGBT media monopo!~ That merger was called off, but in 2005 Planet- Out purchased LH for $31 million. Even as PkinetOut faced a financial crisis in early 2007, The Advocate continued to gain new subscribers. To celebrate its 40th anniversary, it came out of the closet, doing away with the "privacy wrap" that had previously shrouded the magazine. "The Advocate’s decision might seem like a trivial matter... but it stands for something far greater: the increasing acceptance and visibility of gay people in public fife,~ wrote gay journalist James Kirchick, As a key public voice of the gay communi~ Toe Advocate has been a frequent tzrget of criticism over the years. Many decried its thi~ away ~om militant politics and its increasing emphasis on entertainment and lifestyle content, while others thought the magazine was too commercial and catered to affluent white gay men. Yet 40 yeats after its founding, The Advocate remains the "periodical of record" that mainstream journalists, politicians, and business leaders ram to for informarion about the LGBT community. For further reading: Faderman, Li[fi~a, ~nd Stunt Timmons. 2006. Gay L-A. (Basic Books). Straitmatter, Rodgar. 1995. Unspeakable: The Rise of the Gay and Lesbian Press in America (Faber & Failer). Thompson, Mark (editor). 1994. _Long Road to Freedom: The Advocate History of the Gay and Lesbian Movement_ (St. Martin’s Press). Letters cor~tirmed from pg 6 After finding the event I realized I should have parked by the amphitheater instead. I didn’t want to walk back and move my car after finally finding the event as I felt no qualms about walking in the dark after the event was finished. The picnic pavilions had security lights that came on as darkness set in and there were utility poles with lights that came on around the amphitheater, but as t walked back towards the greenhouse parking lot down by the arboretum I noticed that the street lights, even though there are many of them and they couldn’t ALL be malfunctioning, were turned off--all of them. achieve the ful! recognition of our citizenship, then like most straights who are observed in public sexual congress, we’ll be given a warning and told to move on without the victimization that comes from Puritan policymakers. I thank GOPer Senator Craig, a 62-year old man from Idaho, responsible for running several successful election campaigns, for showing the USA what responsibility he can be trusted with. If one is old enough for sexual activity, one should have the responsibility to do it in private. James Nimmo CHAEL SAGE TURNS TO TULSA’S BAMBOO LOUNGE° It occurred to me that these lights were turned off intentionally to encourage the lewd sort of behavior that results in brownie-point arrests for the police department, fines for the city’s coffers, and humiliation and other negative social effects for those arrested such as job or housing loss, and registering as a sex offender on publicly available websites. Is the darkness a passive policy of enticement purposely engineered by OKC city government? Is the darkness being used as a low-maintenance bait for entrapment? If the city was really interested in reducing lewd behavior in public parks wouldn’t the lights be on throughout the night? Xghy weren’t al! those sensors operational? If street lights can come on automatically in residential neighborhoods to promote safety shouldn’t they also be effective in public areas where unwelcome behavior is tmown to occur? Shouldn’t those lights be turned on not only to discourage alleged lewd behavior, but also to lessen the threat of vandalism? There were about three or four cars within a stone’s throw of mine and as I was loading my trunk another car pulled in and an individual got out and walked away from the parking lot. I could see another person sitting in a car outlined by the flashing burglar alarm light on the dashboard, as if the occupant were a summer lightening bug signaling for a mate. I’m no fan of toilet trollers or lover’s lane Lotharios of either orientation. As a repressed minority in the USA and a target of brimstone-eating Bible bangers we gay people need to do better. When we TMsa’s OkEq Library Catalog now online! TULSA, OK( OkEq E-news) ~The Nancy & Joe McDonald Rainbow Library catalog can now be accessed online! Visit www.librarything. com/profile/OkEq to browse our collection, search by keyword, read reviews on Amazon, and more! About the library: Thousands ofLGBT tides and exquisite glass art line the walls of the Nancy & Joe McDonald Rainbow Library in the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. Open during Equality Center hours (Monday through Saturday, 3pro to 9pro), the library has titles available for leisure reading, research, discussion groups, and as a resource for local students when writing on LGBT issues. Books are available for free check-out for the community. A mainstay of the Equality Center since its founding in t996, the Nancy & Joe McDonald Rainbow Library was named in their honor in the Spring of 1999. Nancy is Past National President of Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG), President of PFLAG Tulsa, has testified before the US Congress on GLBT issues and was the inaugural recipient of the OkEq Lifetime Achievement Award. Photo by: Kevin Abosch TULSA, OK __ Direct fi’om New York Rachael Sage will return to the Bamboo Lounge Tulsa for an exclusive concert on November 10th, 9 pm. Ms. Sage made her first appearance at the Bamboo in 2005. East Village songstress, poet and multi-media maven Rachael Sage has been making gutsy pop music in one form or another since she was three years old. Her latest offering of "lovely and literate folk-pop-rock" (The Village Voice), THE BLISTERING SUN, is devoted to the topics of vision, clarit}; and facing life head on. A self-taught pianist who honed her skills listening to her parents’ doo-wop, Broadway and Beatles album collections, Rachael debuted her first original material for a captive audience of kindergarten students one fateful afternoon before their ballet teacher arrived and broke up the party. "When I started," she says, " t was writing a lot of music that sounded like Elton John - if he’d been a nice Jewish girl from a long line of Russian cantors." By junior high school, Sage’s dancing abilities had landed her a spot at the prestigious School ofAmerican Ballet; but it was really the music she was hearing in and out of class that intrigued her the most. W~.ozarksstar.COm the STAR 15 CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER ICE CREAM PiE as we~ as bars. photo op. ~]~a~ goodness we get a |or of space on our digital ~mera disc! Colorado which was the MO~ °’Homophobic." State in the Union until very recently does not have a lot of gay accommodations but he~ is a list of fine most impotent ones arotmd the State. ElyrIas \g~stern Guest House at t655 E. 47th Avenue in Denver, v,xvw.irmtravels.com/ usatco/rdewgh.html Mountain Sage Lnn, 553 ~: Etl-&orn Ave., Estes Park, -,~w~,~v.mountainsageinn. coral Platte River Cabins, 16525 Pine Valley Rd., CoIfax Ave, Denver is a city ofwondedht restaurants all over the dr): Like Chicago, Denver has so many to choose from i~ all ~-pes ofmenus. Denver has lots of little communities within the city. The arts and museums are great as well as the shopping ~e other main city in the state is Colorado Springs which just has two bars,, Club Qat 3430 No, Academr Blvd. and the Underground at t !0 No. Ne;~ada,~ Ave, For a city tl{at so many religious nu s and conservatives it is a wonder that there are ant gay bars there at all. But Colorado Springs has a great Pride Fest every )mar a~ their downtown Ciw Park. 18 the STAR ww~.ozarksstar.com TRAV S day, October 14, 2007 Brady Heights abuts the Brady Arts District and ties on North Denver and North Cheyenne ~venues. The tour wilt start at !2 under twelve. Ti&ets will be available until 4pro the day of the event and the tour ends at 5pm! Advance tict~ets are ava[ilable at www.bradyheigrhts,org. ProCeeds will benefit community projects the Brady Heig~hts Neighborhood Association. patio bar, From crab ca~es, Me:dcan E~ Rolls, Quesadilla, Barbecue Pvibbies or Sout}xwestern Steak Salad you wilt find a fttl menu. ~lhey have been in business over 25 years. Check out their website at: the STAR t9 The Cowgirl restaurant is a papular andgay-fi’iendly spotfor barbecue, burgers, beer, and blues. (Photo by Andrew Cdlins) Fe, New Mexico Santa Fe sits at 7,000 feet above sea level, dinging to the lower slopes of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and offering an enchanting blend of Rocky Mountain and high desert living. ~12ais scenic city is politically progressive, abundant with museums and galleries, renowned for its distinctive adobe architecture, overflowing with sophisticated inns and restaurants, and ideal for outdoors enthusiasts. You won’t find much in the way of gay nightlife, but if you’re planning a romantic vacation with your significant other, Santa Fe may just have everything else you’re seeking. Even better, if you’re starting to think about retirement options, northern New Mexico’s "City Different" may be worth scouting out as a potential future home. In November 2005, RainbowVision Properties opened a GLBT retirement community on the south side of town, billing itself the first such full-scale endeavor of its kind (the company has plans for additional communities in Palm Springs, the San Francisco suburbs, and Vancouver). ~he 13-acre compound geared toward the 50-and-over set is worth checking out even if you’re not thinking of buying here - it’s home to the Silver Starlight Lounge and Cabaret, which is open to the public and is Santa Fe’s only gay nightlife option. It’s actually quite popular with folks of all ages, especially for early evening cocktails. 20 the STAR One of the region’s greatest lures is the fantastic, sunny weather - Santa Fe and north-central New Mexico enjoy beautiful weather year-round. Summer tends to be the busiest time for a Santa Fe visit - this is opera season as well as a time when many prominent festivals and art markets take place. But a fall or winter visit yields fewer crowds, cool and crisp temperatures, and still plenty to see and do - plus rates tend to be lower at hotels, which are among the priciest in the Southwest. Many of the city’s attractions are right in the center of town. Here you can take a walk around the Plaza; check out the numerous shops and cafes; admire the city’s adobe-dad Pueblo Revival, Spanish Colonial, and Victorian buildings; or stop by the circa-1610 Palace of the Governors, a state history museum set inside the nation’s oldest public building. There are several museums nearby, dealing mostly with art (such as the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, which has a terrific restaurant). If you’re a die-hard museum explorer, make the short drive (or bus ride) up the Old Santa Fe Trail to Museum Hill, a complex of outstanding cultural attractions, the highlight being the Museum of International Folk Art. The newer Museum of Spanish Colonial Art is another top draw. If you’d rather spend most of your time outside, saunter up Canyon Road, a narrow, winding lane of historic adobe bungalows containing some of the most prestigious art galleries in the Southwest. There’s spectacular hiking all around Santa Fe, but if you have time for just one ramble, head to Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, which is about a 45-minute drive south of town, toward Albuquerque. This 2-mile, moderately steep hike passes through a narrow, dramatic box canyon and then rises up to a lofty promontory affording panoramic views of the mountains and mesas. The monument is named for the bizarre rock formations that rise high out of one end of the canyon and look a bit like sandstone tepees. If you’re visiting between December and April, bring your skis with you, or rent some in town. Ski Santa, which is about 15 miles northeast of downtown, offers 44 trails of rugged, beautifully groomed trails. If you have trouble believing New Mexico offers much in the way ofwinter sports, consider that the ski area receives an average of 240 inches of snox~all annually. This is a first-rate facility, albeit not quite as famous or as demanding as Taos Ski Valley, which is just a two-hour drive north. However you get your exercise, whether hiking, skiing, or strolling among art galleries, you’re sure to work up an appetite in these parts, especially given the city’s high altitude, which can tax your system if you’re not used to it. Fortunately, this is a city with no shortage of terrific restaurants. Serving some of the most authentic New Mexican fare in town, the Shed is an excellent choice. The setting inside a 1692 adobe is ideal for sampling such local favorites as green-chile stew with pork and potatoes, and red-chile enchiladas. Or drop by I1 Vicino, an inexpensive, gay-friendly pizza place serving delicious thin-crust pies topped with gourmet ingredients, microbrewed beers, and a cheerful courtyard. www.ozarksstar.com A favorite spot for brunch is the fabulous Care Pasqual’s, where you might sample buttermilk biscuits with sage-bacon graW, homemade sausage, and poached eggs. More sophisticated and substantial fare appears on the dinner menu - try the organic-chicken mole at dinner. You’ll find a couple of the city’s top restaurants along charming Canyon Road, including such high-end standouts as the Compound and Geronimo, as well as the popular tapas option, E1 Farol. Also specializing in smaller plates, downtown’s La Boca turns out such exemplary fare as Moroccan-grilled shrimp with sweet-pea-basil puree, and seared ahi tuna with Manchego-white-bean hash. If you’ve had your fill ofNew Mexican cuisine, head to the first-rate Kasasoba for exquisite Japanese food. And for casual, affordable, yet creative American chow, don’t miss these two gay favorites, the Cowgirl (great for barbecue, and with a big patio), or Harry’s Roadhouse a short drive south of the city - not terribly far from Silver Starlight Lounge. Harry’s is especially popular for its house-made ¯ desserts and potent margaritas. Santa Fe abounds with appealing accommodations, including a few gay-owned B&Bs and inns. One nice thing about B&Bs in northern New Mexico is that they typically comprise a small compound of casitas (adobe-style cottages) or a cluster of rooms with separate entrances, thereby affording plenty of privacy. Among the longestrunning and most enjoyable such properties is the lesbian-owned Triangle Inn, which comprises nine casitas and lies about 15 miles north of downtown. Units have lovely southwestern furnishings, VCRs, CD stereos, and kitchenettes, and many can sleep four. The Triangle draws mostly gay folks, whereas the other gay-owned B&Bs in Santa Fe cater to a mixed crowd. If you’re looking to stay in the heart of downtown, try E1 Farolito, a collection of airy casitas with fireplaces, striking Mexican and Southwestern furniture, and original art and photography. The Inn of the Turquoise Bear occupies the rambling Spanish-Pueblo Revival estate ofWitter Bynner, a gay poet and socialite of the 1920s and ’30s who threw lavish parties here that drew the likes ofWilla Cather, Errol Flynn, W.H. Auden, and Stephen Spender. It’s a warm and inviting inn surrounded by secret gardens and run by friendly hosts. Among mainstream, luxury accommodations, it’s hard to beat the over-the-top-luxurious Inn of the Five Graces, which is in the heart of the city center and consists of 22 opulently appointed casitas, all done with elaborate Latin American, Middle Eastern, and Asian antiques and decorative arts. Service here is arguably the best in town, and guests can also enjoy lunch at the cozy on-site cafe or dinner at the adjacent Pink Adobe, a famous old Santa Fe restaurant that the Five Graces management bought and refurbished in summer 2007. Another excellent upscale choice, the 57-room Inn of the Anasazi sits steps from the Plaza, its rooms outfitted with kiva fireplaces (common in Santa Fe, they’re shaped a bit like beehive ovens), handwoven fabrics, organic toiletries, and four-poster beds. An ambitious makeover in 2006 has given it a fresh look, and the hotel’s restaurant serves some of the most creative contemporary Southwestern fare in the state. Some additional downtown properties worth checking out include the upscale but well-priced Inn on the Alameda, with bright and airy rooms and a location handy for Canyon Road gallery-hopping; and the mid-priced Inn of the Governors, a rambling hotel two blocks from the Plaza. Many rooms here have wood-burning fireplaces. Whether you’re alone or with your honey, it’s always fun to end a day of hiking or skiing with a soak in one of the outdoor hot tubs at Ten Thousand Waves, a gay-popular Japanese-style spa in the foothills on the east side of town. It’s a memorable spot for star-gazing. For the ultimate away-from-it-all vacation, book an overnight stay in one ofTen Thousand Waves’ smartly appointed luxury casitas, and watch your stresses melt away. ~.ozarksstar.com Charting Our Future? Lesbian Notions, about social networking websitesfor queers. Maybe it’s my age - 50 is just around the corner (oy!). Maybe it’s because I’ve been in a relationship since I was 18 (mind you, that means serial monogamy with four different women). Maybe it’s because I spend a lot of time on the Web at work. Whatever the reason, I’ve not spent too much time on any social networking site - lesbian, gay, or straight. Well, a recent study shows I’m alone! According to a January 2007 Harris Interactive/ Witeck-Combs poll, gays, lesbians, and bisexuals use social networking sites more than straight people do. You can find us at MySpace 33 percent of the time we’re online, and at Facebook or Friendster 11 percent. But these aren’t sites just for us, and, as we all know, we like to go to places just for us, both in real time and in virtual worlds. At least four social networking sites specifically catering to the LGBT community launched this year - Glee, Olivia.com/connect, Socialbutter, and OurChart. Then there are these sites specifically for gay men (the names say it all) - Bigjock, Manjam, and Lovetastic. ~urselves. On OurChart, you can connect yourself via friendships and relationships ~o the wide world encompassing all these people and more." L Word executive producer Ilene Chaiken is OurChart’s CEO, and her partners in the ~enture are Jennifer Beals, who plays Bette, Kate Moennig, who plays Shane, and, not ~urprisingly, Leisha Hailey, who portrays the ~oncept s ong,nator, M~ce. ~Recendy, I had the chance to chat with Lisa ~Parrish, whose blog, "The Hookup," appears ~laily on the site. She explained how it all ~wor-ks. "! love it," said Parrish. "It’s really fun to be part of a community. I do my blog three times a day. The first thing i do after it goes live overnight is...check to see what people are saying.. Now for us dykes who watch The L Word, we know where OurChart.com comes from. In the show’s first season, the engaging, alt-radio DJ and sometimes over-the-top lover ofwhomever she’s with, Mice, started an online chart to track the "relationships" - from one-night stands to the U-Haul on the second dates - of herself and her circle of friends and acquaintances. Over the past four seasons, it has been an on-again/offagain plot line, exploding - or perhaps I should say crashing - in season four, because of the exploits of lesbian sexual predator Poppy. Anyway, some of the girls in front and in back of the camera at The L Word decided to bring the chart into our lives 24/7 by launching OurChart.com, a social networking site just for us. According to a description on the site, "us" includes "lesbians, dykes, queer girls, gay women, high femmes, butches, drag kings, bois, transwomen, and transmen - however we define 22 the STAR You sign up and create your own profile, and then your own chart by adding friends. The chart is, of course, digitally created with your photo at the center, which is then connected visually and virtually with photos of your friends. "I love it," said Parrish. "It’s really fun to be part of a community. I do my blog three times a day. The first thing I do after it goes live overnight is...check to see what people are saying...OurChart is a fun way of giving people a chance to meet each other, mingle, and talk about things they have in common." Parrish told me a heartwarming story about a woman in the States who wrote in to Our- Chart about her grandmother. It seems that Grandma lived in Germany, and the writer had lost touch. She asked if it was possible for anyone in the area to check up on her grandmother’s whereabouts. Someone did. It wasn’t a happy ending - Grandma had died several years before, but at least the woman had some closure. OurChart is also bringing some original Web-based programraing to a computer screen near you. It has recently launched a shiny called Girl Trash, which, according to Parrish, is a "lesbian pulp-fiction-style noir thriller." It is a series of short Web-isodes of an L.A. girl gang careening through the seedier side of the city. Not necessarily my cinematic - albeit on a very small screen - choice, but it is written and directed by veteran L Word and movie director Angela Robinson. She also brought us D.E.B.S. and Herbie: Fully Loaded. Like it or not, Girl Trash shows us what is so great about the Web - the ability to create, be seen and scrutinized, and create again. But getting back to OurChart’s chart, Parrish told me, "One of the key differences about OurChart is that it’s about friends, networking, colleagues...not about people who slept together." Damn! But don’t despair. Parrish explained they’re adding a feature called "Friends+" that can chart anything from a fling to being involved for 10 years to being lifelong partners. "It’s really important to point out that friends won’t be able to be added to "Friends+" without the individual’s permission," said Parrish. "You couldn’t say you slept with Leisha Halley without her permission." Does Mice ask permission? www.ozarksstar.com INDIGO GIRLS Continued Gate" and "Tether." Amy, when you’re playing solo with a tight back up band (3Five- Human came back out and did a great job rocking with the Girls) let it rip. But Amy, from one southern girl to another, hold off: on the tabasco when Emily is with you and pass that Girl a little honey. Okay, while I am at it, here’s another request: please use your position up there on stage to tell us something of your take on reality and world events. I know we can get on your website (wv~w.indigogirls.com) and read your notes and watch your podcasts and that is great. Few performers have as much interaction as that with their fans. But the live stage is a powerful medium in and of itself for communication and transforming the world. Now back to my original pondering. Do I demand too much of two brilliant musicians who seem to be conveying to their audience that they just want to sing their songs and play their music with no intellectual interaction with their audience or each other about any of it? I don’t know. I wanted to hear from them outside their lyrics, brilliant as they are. I wanted to hear the big picture of what is going on in the world as they see it. I mean, I can hardly afford to get off the farm once a year. I need to hear from someone who sees it all. What is their take on it all? \gho do they endorse for 2008? What do they want from us? What is the revolution of the next 10 years? Should transgendered women be allowed in at Michigan? Do their songs ever end up meaning more to them than they meant to say in the first place? Are they ever confused by their own lyrics? Is the Goddess channeling through them? Have we truly already been saved Emily? And finally, maybe every lesbian in Georgia knows the answer to this one but I am in the dark: were you two ever girlfriends? It doesn’t really matter on that last one. I know from their songs that they have a real love for each other and I know from the fact that I have every CD they ever recorded that I love them and that they will have my devotion forever. Sing on, play on, and know you are on your way to rock and roll Heaven and you take us there with you but please, Girls, as long as you’re live on stage and we are live in the audience, open up a little and talk to us about it all. We’re listening. Divas pack the for HOPE By Joey De TULSA, OK __ Nobody likes a diva, but for Tulsa based H.O.RE. testing clinic, there are several Divas that they can’t help but love. For the sixth year, several ofTulsa’s greatest performers, led by Queen Diva Rebecca Ungerman, came together to produce HOPE’s largest annual fundraiser "Divas Live." Held at the Tulsa Performing Arts Center, this year’s event shattered previous records. "In our budget, we have to raise around $80,000 that is not subsidized by grant funds. This year, ’Divas’ will conservatively be around $50,000 of that," says Kate Neary-Pounds, HOPE’s Executive Director (Exact totals for the evening were not available at the time of the interview). "These funds literally go to keep the doors open." Neary- Pounds explains that the event is critical because the organization does not receive funds from groups such as United \ray. "In 2006 the Department of Health had a massive funding cut and programs such as our quick tests and 24 hour STD hotline were in jeopardy. Fortunately, we received a grant from the George Kaiser Family Foundation to keep the hotline open, but the funds from the show go to help pay for everything else," Neary-Pounds explains. Ungerman, who has been involved with the show for several years is ovetwhelmed by the public’s response and embracement of the event. "We have had to turn people away at the door the last two years. It’s great. I remember the first year we did it and we were excited that we raised $1,200 and could buy desks," Ungerman explains. A large contributor to the evening’s success has been the healthy growth of the auctions. "We grossed $25,000 from our auctions. A large part of that is the addition ofJay Litchfield to the formula. We’re very lucky to have him on board." Ungerman says that they are looking at ways to expand the event, but not sure what form it will take. "The PAC has been wonderful to us all these years, but have to look at how we are going to change and grow. We don’t have a clue what those changes are going to look like yet, but this is a year round planning process." If you xvoald like more information about HOPE’s services or to make a contribution, visit their xvebsite at www.hopetesting. org or ca~ 749-TEST. HRC Coming Out Kits NOW-AVAILABLE for National Coming Out Day 2007. Get ready to "Talk About It" on October 11, NCOD! The theme for National Coming Out Day 2007 will be Talk About It, continuing the slogan and branding that the national program has been building since 2005. National Coming Out Day is a time to celebrate openness and honesty whether you came out 20 minutes ago, or 20 years ago this is a time for all Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Straight supportive people to Talk About It with friends, family and coworkers. Coming Out Day Kits include: Resource Guides to Coming Out Straight Guides to GLBT Americans Transgender Coming Out Guides Poster, Balloons and HRC Stickers And everything else you’ll need to celebrate living openly! To order your kit, please visit: www.hrc.org/comingoutkits This year will also mark an important hallmark as National Coming Out Day, falls on the 20th anniversary of the 1987 Gay and Lesbian March on Washington, and the unfurling of the MDS Quilt on the National Mall. The very first National Coming Out Day was celebrated a year to the day later as a way of continuing the spirit of openness, honesty and visibility that the March and the MDS Quilt presentation inspired. www,ozarksstar.com The STAR 23 ~here will not be a lot of thinking involved in today’s health and fitness column. I have been advised by my colleague Jebediah to make this an easy and happy "thing" to read. He also wants to help you look forward to your hard exercising routines. Jebedial~ is a first grader at Grover Cleveland Elementary and he came ui~ with the theme for this week’s fitness incentive. Jebby, as he is called by his contemporaries, wants you to grab a pen and paper and write a positive or happy word each time you finish a workout or exercise routine. Keep it in a place you can see every day. He thinks that people will be excited about working out if they know there will be a compilation of fun and happy words they can look at after the hard work. I like the concept and I have been given permission to use it. The Rocky Road Baskin Robbins double scoop cone consulting fee was well worth the advice from Jebby. Here are some of my recent happy thoughts Peter Pan .... HAPPY SMILING GOOD WELL REFR£SHED FANTASTIC YES SUNSHINE AWESOME COOL 26 the STAR WOW EXCELLENT FINE THANKS NICE GLOWING BRILLIANT SUPER SMASHING PRETTY BRIGHT GORGEOUS BEAMING HANDSOME BEAUTIFUL FIT DELICIOUS REJUVENATED GREAT ALIVE JOY PEACEFUL SERENE I am already looking forward to tomorrow’s happy consonant and vowel combination. It is the little things in life that can help us all get by and can help you with your health and fitness regimens. Keep it simple Simon.....or rather Jebby! This bit of health and fitness advice brought to you by the guy who has been kid-tested and mother approved. That guy is Ron Blake and he can be unearthed at www. goblakefitness.com. VERY WELL. 2. LET AND MINUTE. 4. STRMN IN 2 CHILLED MARTINI GLASSES. 5. TOP WITH ATEASPOON OF WHIPPED CREAM AND CINNAMON STICK. 6. CUDDLE UP "WITH SO,LEONE SPECIAL AND EN|OY. HAPPY HALLOWE wwa,.ozarksstar.com ANGLES OKC Continued As times changed and business declined, the club began operating only on weekends, and later opened monthly for special events. After being on the market for several months, the dub was sold to Nick Post, owner of the bars of the Habana Inn ( Copa, Finishline Ledo & Gushers Restaurant). Preceding the sale was a farewell party August 25 followed by a tea dance the next day for partiers who had made Angles what it was, before the club passed into a new destiny. Interview xgrith The New Owner ofAngles, Nick Post. Victor: Well, finally now is it is done deal right? Post: It’s a done deal. We had inspections, licenses, which had all cleared by September 1. Victor: You now own Angles, the building, the business & the name? Post: Yes, and the website too, and the phone number is the same. Victor: What spurred your interest in wanting acquire Angles? Nick: Well two months ago I’d have probably said I didn’t have any interest in acquiring it. It just happened all of the sudden, when a customer had heard Scott (Wilson) was interested in selling Angles and I ought to check into it. I met with him, made a dea!, signed a contact, and the deal closed. Victor: Business had been slow at Angles for a long time before it closed. How do you feel you can avoid the problems they had, to build the business back up? Nick: In the beginning we’re probably only going to be open on Fridays and Saturdays. I want Angles to find its own niche, I’m not looking for Angles to take business from the Copa or the Finishline. I want it so people can walk back and forth, not have to stand in line. Angles will be different than the Copa, but we’re not yet sure what that will be. By the first of the year we hope we’l! know ~vhat niche it should have. Copa will continue to have shows, it’s set up to be a showbar, although Angles may handle large pageants or special events. wvwv.ozarksstar.com Victor: So when wil! Angles have their grand re-opening? Nick: We’re not certain yet, but it will be before Halloween. Victor: You’ve been in the bar business quite a while. When did you first acquire the Copa, along with the Finishline, Ledo and Gushers Restaurant? Nick: It was October of 2007 when I bought them from Lee Burrus. They were already successful, but I think their continued success is largely due to the tremendous staff we have. We have over 40 people working hard here, changing things, bringing in new ideas, keep it different all the time. I think that’s the biggest factor in our success. Victor: Out of sheer curiosity, what did you do before you wound up in the bar business? Nick: I was in real estate from the time I was 19 years old. I started working with Abide, and when Truman Miller sold Abide I went ,vith him into commercial development. I then did mergers and acquisitions with Charles Bazzzarian. When he went to prison I was out of a job, so Lee Burrus offered me one here. Although we thought it would be temporary, I worked for Lee for 6 years. I had never been in the bar business, or ever thought I would be. Victor: That’s quite a change. How did you adapt? That is about as much like an apple and an orange as you can get. Nick: I think it’s easier to go from a conventional job to the bar business than it would be the other xvay around. I started in the office, started managing on Mondays, later on weekends, and it ~vent from there. Victor: Do you anticipate much straight patronage? Nick: Straight people have always been welcome in my bars if they act right. Our goal is to let people know that they are welcome, but in our gays clubs they are on our turfi Victor: How have you handled the many rumors about the change? Nick: Well there have been many, but one rumor we can put to rest is that the purchase ofAngles has nothing to do with my other bars or the Habana Inn. I still have many years left on my lease at the Habana, and the Seikels (Habana’s owners) have no interest in selling the hotel. The only change will be that people can walk back and forth and enjoy both places. I’m truly excited about what we can offer with the Habana and the 39tb Street Strip, and I think Scott and Donny set the standards for the clubs on the Strip, and I’m proud to be there. I also recognize that they helped make possible what we have now, when I actually had a call from a captain of the police department for this area, asking if there had been any trouble from police officers, were they professional cordial, etc. I was glad to be able to tell them that they do act correctly, and they know we run good clubs here. Victor: Well we wish you success in carrying on what the Pmgles has always been, and will mean in the future. Creating Community for People living with HW/A DS A 501 c (3) Non Profit Organization Our House, Too offers a vadety of activities for people who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves. We invite anyone who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail hardsmmjr@yahoo.com. the STAR 27 Even sweetness and light can be excessive. With the Sun and Venus in a long, difficult aspect - and in each other’s signs - overdoing the good stuff comes way too easily and can leave us feeling sunburned and saccharine. ARIES (~,~arch 2(} -Apri~ 19): Does your partner want to take the lead or to follow? Baby does want to play, but may be a pushy bottom. (There’s another kind?) Be very clear about who’s really running the show, especially if it’s not stated. TAURUS (Apri~ 20 - ~aay 20): Be very careful of your diet, especially your sugar intake. If there’s any diabetes in your family, get yourself checked out. Resist the urge to decorate, or look at what’s behind it. Is it a distraction from more figurative "housecleaning"? GEM~Ni (~lay 21 - Jmle 29): Write, paint, compose your heart out. It’s all dreck, even if your friends tell you it’s fabulous. They’re just being nice. Later on, when your critical faculties return, something good could come out of all the fertilizer you’re excreting now. CANCER (June 2t - Ju~y 22): Sure, you want your home to be utterly gorgeous. Risking the rent or mortgage by spending a wad on decoration is a bit counterproductive. Get creative with what you have, or raise money selling off old clutter. LEO (Ju~y 23 - August 22): You could easily be too charming, tempting others to doubt your sincerity. Just be your natural, sweet self. That’s already a lot for many people to handle! Cultivate modesty, and remember: The flower charms the bee without effort. WRGO (August 23 - September 22): Being helpful with your insight and suggestions seems a charming idea to you, but others may find it meddlesome. Ask if you can offer help before you actually do. Better yet, put yourself in their shoes, and invite critical support. LIBRA (September 23 - October 22}: Your political talents are already working overtime for you. It would be much too easy to overplay your hand. Sit back, pay attention, and move lightly. Before you offer anything, let them want it! SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): Your instincts are better than good for making connections with superiors at work or getting on the right side of any authority figure. In fact, you may be a bit overenthusiastic and pushy. Where’s that discreet, subtle Scorpion we love so well? 28 the STAR SAGITTARIUS/November 22 - December 20}: Your friends know how outspoken you are, and how you love to argue - excuse me - "exchange new ideas." Your current enthusiasm will charm some people and scare others off. You may want to be careful about whom you push into either category. CAPRICORN (December 21 - January t9): You are now exuding pure sexuality. Horny, jaded, or anywhere in between, you are radiating sex. At work, that can cause trouble. Do your best to sublimate that energy and/or enjoy it in the appropriate time and place. AQUARIUS (January 29 - February !8}: You want adventure, but not solo. You and your partner want different things, but are too eager to appease each other, and that satisfies nobody. Find a common ground where you can both be a little selfish and have a great time. P~SCES (February 19 - ~aarch 19): You don’t need to show off or work on your erotic expertise - but why pass up the fun? Finding eager partners is not a problem. Limiting yourself to an appropriate partner may be! METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES Rev Steve T. U~ie Spiri ol Chris tViCC 2g02 E 20th Street Joplin, MO 64804 417-529-8480 Worship Saturdays at 10:00 AM Community Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM MCC of the Living Spring 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays at 6:00 PM Have a God filled and BleSSed DaV! www.ozarksstar.com HABANA INN 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-528-2221 www.habanainn.com KELLY KIRBY, CPA 4815 S. HARVARD, SUITE 424 Tulsa, OK * 918-747-5466 Certified Public Accountant CENTURY 21 GOLD CASTLE 3627 NW EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405-840-2106 ~wcw.c21 goldcastle.com CHUCK BRECKENRIDGE Keller Williams Realty Tulsa, OK 918-706-1887 GAY BRADY HEIGHTS-Tulsa New and Historic Homes for Sale and Rent For Info: www.gaybradyheightstulsa.com GUSHER’S Pd~STAURANT 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 Located inside Habana Inn ANGLES 2117 NW 39th St. Oklahoma City, OK www.anglesclub.com BAMBOO LOUNGE 7204 E. PINE Tulsa, OK 918-836-8700 www.bambooloungetulsa.com CLUB MAJESTIC 124 N. BOSTON Tulsa, OK 918-584-9494 www.clubmajestictulsa.com FINISHLINE 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE COPA 2200 N~V 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE LEDO 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESS\rAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com TNT’S 2114 S. MEMORIAL DR. Tulsa, OK 918-660-056 Open Wed- Fri 6pm, Sat 8pm DIVERSITY CHRISTIAN CNTR 211 S. Garnett Tulsa, OK 74128 wvcw.realacceptance.com HERLAND SISTER’S 2312 N~V 39th St Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405-521-9696 HOPE TESTING CLINIC 3540 E. 31st Tulsa, OK 800-535-2437 Oklahoma’s HIV/STD Hotline SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC 2902 E. 20TH STREET, Joplin, MO * 479-529-8480 Service Saturday 9:30 AM MCC of the LIVING SPRING 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays 6pm NWARKANSAS GLBT CENTER Bentonville/Rogers 888-391-9222 W~W~.NWAGLBTCC.ORG DIVERSITY PRIDE EVENTS 479-253-2555 Eureka Springs, AR www.diversitypride.com Want the STAR delivered to your home or business? 12 issues for $29.95 will be mailed in a sealed envelope the 1st of each month. Complete the form below and send with a check or moneyorder to: ¯ne STAR 5103 S. Sheridan Rd., #153 Tulsa, OK 74145 (Single Copies $3.00 per issue) NAME: Address: City:. St: Zip: Phone: Check enclosed Money Order Start Date: www.ozarksstar.corn Keller Williams Realty Chuck Breckenridge Whether buying or selling I’ll work hard for you. NWArkansas GLBT Communig- Center "Linking Together as One" For more information: 888-391-9222 WWW.NWAGLBTCC.ORG 30 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com mad~ and sc{ence And more an iu yot~r-k www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 31 ;:’ I:he rr, sg Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2007] The Star Magazine, October 1, 2007; Volume 4, Issue 10 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource October 01, 2007 Subject The topic of the resource Politics, education, and social conversation over LGBTQ+ topics Description An account of the resource The Star Magazine’s first issue began February of 2005. Before this issue was Ozarks Pride (2004) and The Ozark Star (2004). Follows is The Metro Star (2008). This magazine discusses topics of AIDs, education, politics, local and national civil rights of the LGBT community, and advice for relationships and places to visit. This collection is PDF searchable. Physical copies are also available to be seen at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center with permission. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Star Media, Ltd Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Star Media, Ltd Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Charles (Chaz) Ward Victor Gorin Greg Steele Jeanne Flanigan Paul Wortman James Nimmo Joey D. Libby Post Andrew Collins Donald Pile Ronald Blake Ray Williams Jack Fertig Liz Highleyman Devre Jackson Michael Leach Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Image PDF Online text Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource magazine Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Southwestern Missouri Western Arkansas Southeastern Kansas Eastern Oklahoma The United States of America (50 states) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://history.okeq.org/collections/show/19 Relation A related resource The Star Magazine, September 1, 2007; Volume 4, Issue 9 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/213 The Star Magazine, November 1, 2007; Volume 4, issue 11 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/211 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context https://history.okeq.org/items/show/212 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/14ec1b9dd25dcc6bde36908ab0108198.jpg aa8eb2daf434cd3f5ed45d6669c2b982 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/d50ec4fb7c387a28a8bcf2495466e7f2.pdf 20fe6bcfe5415b937c36e3b5b1f84344 PDF Text Text �2 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 3 �~ G~.~T $1URVII~Y 88.6% of combined Gays and Lesbians voted in the 2004 Presidential Hection. For the 2006 Mid-Term Hection 81.7% combined Gay and Lesbian readers voted. HRC and NGLTF comment on the history making GLBT Forum August 9th on LOGO TV. Finley, a heterosexual woman and the best known of the four, was renowned for smearing chocolate on her naked body to represent the degrad.ation of women. The Chardonnay grape variety is a classic white wine grape grown all around the world. The original fame of Chardonnay comes from its success in the region of France. Gay Travelers: USA Gay Landmarks Out of Town: Russian River, CA Dining In or OUT L.ESB~AN NOTIONS GLBT Forum revue: I have to hand it to Mike Gravel though. He referred to "the gays" twice, but used the word "gay" 10 times! F~TNESS Introspection can lead you to better understand yourself and ultimately to achieve greater happiness. STAR DISTRIBUTION: ON THE COVER: GLBT Forum Participants 4 the STAR OKLAHOMA CITY * TULSA* LAWTON * MCALESTER * ENID * LITTLE ROCK * NORTH LITTLE RODK * FAYETTEVILLE * FT SMITH * EUREKA SPRINGS * HOT SPRINGS * BENTONVILLE * ROGERS * KANSAS CITY * SPRINGFIELD * JOPLIN * BRANSON AREA* WICHITA * PITTSBURG * JUNCTION CITY www.ozarksstar.corn �Ne t E ecdon could be decided by Gays and Lesbians San Francisco-based Community Marketing Inc. conducted a nationwide survey earlier this year that the STAR and you, our readers took part. The study found an astounding 92% of gay male respondents (92.5%) reported that they voted in the 2004 presidential election with nearly 84% (83.8%) reporting that they voted in the mid-term election in 2006. Results for lesbians were similar with nearly 91% (90.7%) of lesbian respondents reporting that they voted in the 2004 presidentia! election and 78% reporting that they voted in the mid-term election in 2006. In comparison, media reports estimate that 64% of the general population voted in the 2004 presidential election and just 40% of the general population voted in the 2006 mid-term election. Results of the STAR survey, readers were slightly lower with 88.6% of combined Gays and Lesbians voting in the 2004 Presidential Election. For the 2006 MidTerm Election 81.7% combined Gay and Lesbian readers voted. In comparison to the general population that is still an impressive difference for GLBT Oklahomans and the region. Among the results from the STAR survey we found interesting was on the question, "Importance of Gay Marriage" only 30% of our readers thought it was the most important issue. While 57.6% settled for Domestic Partnership and/or_civil union recognition. 12.3% felt there were more important GLBT issues. In the STAR "Commentary" this issue, James Nimmo addresses the question of " How We Should Address the Gay and Lesbian Community" This is what our survey found on the same question. 38.6% said "Gay & Lesbian", 35% said "GLBT", 19.9% "LGBT", 17% "Gay Men or Worneft’ and 12.3% suggested "Alternative". I thank our readers for the great response we had for the STAR in this very important survey of our community. We will be publishing more results in coming issues. Sincerely, Charles (Chaz) Ward www.ozarksstar.com New National Survey Shows Gays and Lesbians Outpace U.S. Average in Voting Participation Respondents: Homosexuality I4/71l Still Be a Divisive Issue in Ten Yeats SAN FRANCISCO, CA A new national survey reveals that gay and lesbian consumers are far more likely to have voted in the last presidential and midterm elections than the population in general. Significant numbers of both gay men and lesbians also donated to a political party in the past year. The survey also found that despite significant social and political progress over the past decade, majorities of both gays and lesbians believe homosexuality will remain a "divisive" issue in ten years. The survey results are included in the Gay Consumer IndexTM and Lesbian Consumer IndexTM, precedent-setting national surveys of more than 12,000 gay Americans and 10,000 lesbian Americans conducted by Community Marketing Inc. in spring 2007 and set to be released later this month. "The results of the Gay Consumer Index and Lesbian Consumer Index demonstrate that the political parties would be smart to pay attention to the issues that mean the most to gay and lesbian voters," declared Tom Roth, president of Community Marketing Inc. "We have far more at stake than the average voter and we’re therefore far more engaged in the political process." Slighdy more than 31 percent of lesbian respondents (31.1%) reported that they made a financial contribution to a political party in the past twelve months. Forty percent (40.1%) of gay male respondents reported that they made a financial contribution m a politica! party in the past twelve months. And finally, large majorities of gay male and lesbian respondents agreed with the statement that "homosexuality will still be a divisive issue in the USA in 10 years." A new national survey reveals that gay and lesbian consumers are far more likely to have voted in the last presidential and midterm elections than the population in general. Significant numbers of both gay men and lesbians also donated to a political party in the past year. The survey also found that despite significant social and political progress over the past decade, majorities of both gays and lesbians believe homosexuality will remain a "divisive" issue in ten years. The survey results are included in the Gay Consumer IndexTM and Lesbian Consumer IndexTM, precedent-setting national surveys of more than 12,000 gay Americans and 10,000 lesbian Americans conducted by Community Marketing Inc. in spring 2007 and set to be released later this month. "The results of the Gay Consumer Index and Lesbian Consumer Index studies demonstrate that the political parties would be smart to pay attention to the issues that mean the most to gay and lesbian voters," declared Tom Roth, president of Community Marketing Inc. "We have far more at stake than the average voter and we’re therefore far more engaged in the political process." More than 92% of gay male respondents (92.5%) reported that they voted in the 2004 presidential election with nearly 84% (83.8%) reporting that they voted in the mid-term election in 2006. Results for lesbians were similar with nearly 91% (90.7%) of lesbian respondents reporting that they voted in the 2004 presidential election and 78% reporting that they voted in the midterm election in 2006. In comparison, media reports estimate that 64% of the general population voted in the 2004 presidential election and just 40% of the general population voted in the 2006 mid-term election. Slightly more than 31 percent of lesbian respondents (31.1%) reported that they made a financial contribution to a political party in the past twelve months. Forty percent (40.1%) of gay male respondents reported that they made a financial contribution to a political party in the past twelve months. And finally, large majorities of gay male and lesbian respondents agreed with the statement that "homosexuality will still be a divisive issue in the USA in 10 years." Community Marketing, Inc., founded in 1992, is the global leader in gay and lesbian market research, strategies and communications. More info: www. CommunityMarketinglnc.com Rivendell Media, Inc., America’s leading gay and lesbian media placement firm, co produced the Gay TM Consumer Index" and Lesbian Consumer Index studies, which were sponsored, in part, by Absolut. More info: www.RivendellMedia.co m the STAR 5 �I before E excep after C. L be£ore G excep Be£ore B ? How Equallity by Jim Nimmo OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__ A few days ago I was in an email exchange with some gay guys and the thread was about the spelling of our orientational moniker/acronym commonly used as a short hand to describe us in the media. Is it LGBT or GLBT? And there’s even LGBTQi which resembles a row on the computer keyboard. There was even the suggestion of SOGI (sexual orientation and gender identity) but say it out loud and it sounds like an adjective some of us could use to name the after effects of sexual exertion rather than sexual orientation. This year our 2007 Oklahoma City Parade was prefixed with GLBTI, which again, said out loud, sounds like a word for insincerity. Why should any particular letter come before the other? With my tongue, GLBT comes out easier than LGBT with a more defined rhythm, but I’m just referring to ease of speech; being a musician I’m attuned to that anyway. We often hear the phrase "men and women" but we also hear "ladies and gentlemen." Why do we say "salt and pepper" and not the other way round? Knife and fork, birds and bees, paper and pencil? for their own gender-emotionally, romantically, and erotically--are referred to as gay, period. A~ I going to get hate mail from the women because I would drop the "lesbian" term? I could just as easily expand my dream world and drop the "gay" word altogether and let people have their sexual expression without hang-ups about words and the straight-world permission or opprobrium these red-flag words convey. This is what ,ve had, etymologically, before the prudo-pseudo-scientific "advances" of the Victorian era, when the word "homosexual" was invented. Before that time sex between men was plain sodomy, sex between women was just affection. Even farther back in some societies, sex between older and younger men was the transmission of the spirit and continuation of the life force which enabled young men to become leaders and progenitors in their tribes. The female will ALWAYS be superior anyway. It’s possible for them to conceive by parthenogenesis--no male required! But of course, the gay orientation is not about sexual reproduction as our enemies and two State Supreme Court decisions from 2006 would have us believe. Gayness is about having the right to privacy to exercise our affectional and emotional bonds as we like with consenting adults. Gayness is about having the same rights as any other man or woman who has chosen opposite-gender marriage or co-habitation, with or without progeny. Unless we exert with growing force our birth-right entitlement to equality, we’re going to be seen by our enemies as insincere. I would like to spell my orientation like this: AMERICAN. Well, I think our equality movement IS about exertion and certainly NOT about insincerity. And why should we develop these sensitivities about spellings and acronyms? In my dream world (not to be confused with my fantasy world) people with a yen 6 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �w~ev.ozarksstar.com the STAR 7 �GINGER ~MAR Recognized by Keller Williams For outstanding achievement 2005 and 2006 and Stephanie DeBarse l~A LTY Matthew Heath-Fitzgerald Chuck Breckenridge 918-706-1887 REALTOI~ Susan Leah Whether buying or selling I’ll work hardforyou. "At Century 21 Gold Castle our BEST properties are our PEOPLE’ 4301 NW 63rd, Suite 100 Oklahoma City, OK 73116 405.840.2106 www.c21goldcastle.com Let us promote your business in a UNIQUE & DIVERSE market. Cal~ STAR ADVlERT~S~NG today. 8)835o7887 8 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �OKLAI OMAN W’INNER OF THE LIFETIME COMMITMENT AWARD FROM THE NATIONAL STONEW-ALL DEMOCRATS "Gay People Aren’t Broken, and They Don’t Need Fixing" he came out to us at the age of 36. Today he is an attorney in Washington D,C., and we have attended functions together of the Stonewall Democrats, but at the time we had no idea. He’d had an outstanding background. In high school he had been Student Body President & an Eagle Scout, and later served in the air force as a flight instructor before becoming an attorney. Although it was a surprise, we told him it didn’t bother us. We also adopted a young gay man, Eli Moque Grayson, who is now living in California and is an interior designer. He’s worked on some distinguished homes including the late Bob Hope. VICTOR: The Mary Lou Lemon Humanitarian Award, given by the Oklahoma Stonewall Democrats, is named after your late wife. Obviously she was a great friend and inspiration. How long were you married? BOB’. 52 years and 2 days. We had met at a high school get together on Lake Fryor near Perry ton. She was a beautiful, blonde blue eyed woman, and I had lots of competitors. We got married when we were both in college, I attended Oklahoma A&M ( now OSU) and she was at Panhandle State University in Goodwell, Oklahoma.. We had a wonderful life, raised wonderful children, and she was a champion for equality for everyone. VICTOR: You later had gotten involved with P-Flag? Photo: Bob Lemon wit/~ daughter Robyn Lemon Sellers This year’s winner was Oklahoma’s own Bob Lemon, a longtime friend of the GLBT community and overal! champion for progressive causes. No stranger to honors, this year he also received the Irene Tyson Award from the Oklahoma Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. He’s the proud dad of 5 grown children (Del, Jim, Robyn, Chrys & Hi Moque). The contributions and support he has given the GLBT community are truly too numerous to list here, but now he shares some of his reflections about what it means to him as well BOB: Yes, we had gotten involved and been to their national meetings. When I was on the board of the Christian Church Disciples of Christ in Perryton, which I thought was a liberal church, I had made a motion to allow P-Flag to meet at our church, as did many others groups. That motion got a few minutes of discussion before it was voted down, 35-1, and I was the dissenting vote. Our efforts to change their attitudes were unsuccessful. Soon after that we left that church." VICTOR: You joined Mayflower UCC when you moved to Oklahoma City in 2000. BOB: We attended a few times and fell in love with it, beginning when we read their" open and affirming" statement. Not all churches then were so accepting. as us. INTERVIEW By Victor Gorin VICTOR: You are a longtime champion of equality for the GLBT community. What got you started on that path? VICTOR: What is hardest for older people to give up their prejudices? ........................ Continued page-23 BOB: My first real awareness of this issue happened when we were at a convention of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Kansas City during 1977. Mary Lou and I learned of a minister who was forced to resign from his church because his son was gay. We were living in Perryton Texas then, and very loyal to our church and our denomination. In 1979 at another convention in St. Louis, Mary Lou and I attended a workshop on homosexuality. It was headed by a medical doctor from Oklahoma University who maintained that gayness was not a choice, that they were "naturally that way." Throughout the years we read a great deal about gay history and equality. VICTOR: Later on it touched your own family. BOB: Our interest really peaked when 1993 when Mary Lou and I learned, to our complete surprise, that our son Chris was gay when ~wvw.ozarksstar.corn the STAR 9 �Uo So Court o£Appeals Upholds Decision Striking Down Oklahoma’s Adop, on InvM dat on Law in Lawsuit Brought by L bda LegM ’The Adoption Invalidation Law was reckless legislation that jeopardized the safety and well being of children and undermined parents’ rights.’ DENVER, CO__ August 3, 2007 -- In a 35-page decision, a panel of the U. S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit rejected the Oklahoma Department of Health’s challenge to a lower court decision striking down an Oklahoma law so.extreme that it threatened to make children adopted by same-sex couples in other states legal orphans when the families are in Oklahoma. The ruling is important not only in Oklahoma, but also to families across the United States, including in Seattle and Houston, home to two of the families who joined in the suit. "Today’s decision supports the lower court’s finding that same-sex couples who choose to adopt are entitled under the U.S. Constitution to have their relationships with their children respected in every state," said Ken Upton, Senior StaffAttorney in Lambda Legal’s South Central Regional Office and lead attorney on the case. "N~e Adoption Invalidation Law was reckless legislation that jeopardized the safety and well-being of children and undermined parents’ rights." Although the governor and attorney general were content to abide by the lower court’s finding, the Oklahoma Commissioner of Health sought review of a part of the judgment that required the Department of Health to issue an amended birth certificate to the adopted child of a same-sex couple that accurately reflected both women as the child’s legal parents. The Court rejected the challenge and affirmed the judgment requiring issuance of a proper birth certificate. In doing so, the 10th Circuit panel also agreed with Lambda Legal that the law violated the Full Faith and Credit Clause of the U.S. Constitution. 10 the STAR In the opinion released today, U. S. Senior Circuit Judge David M. Ebel wrote, "final adoption orders by a state court of competent jurisdiction are judgments that must be given full faith and credit under the Constitution by every other state in the nation. Because the Oklahoma statute at issue categorically rejects a class of out-of-state adoption decrees, it violates the Full Faith and Credit Clause." The Adoption Invalidation Law, hastily passed at the end of the 2004 Oklahoma legislative session, had said that Oklahoma "shall not recognize an adoption by more than one individual of the same sex from any other state or foreign jurisdiction." Lambda Legal argued that the law was unconstitutional based on the United States Constitution’s guarantees of equal protection and due process, as ~vell as the mandates of the Full Faith and Credit Clause. Today’s decision leaves intact a decision by the U.S. Court for the Western District of Oklahoma that agreed with these challenges and held that the statute indeed violates the United States Constitution by singling out a specific group. Neither the governor nor the attorney general of Oklahoma challenged the trial court’s decision that struck down the antigay Adoption Invalidation Law. The appellate court’s decision also requires the Oklahoma Department of Health to issue a birth certificate to the daughter of a samesex couple in Oklahoma accurately listing the names of both parents. In addition to same-sex couples raising children in Oklahoma, the ruling benefits samesex couples and their families in other states, including two of the couples who brought suit, Heather Finstuen and Anne Magro, now living in Houston, and Ed Swaya and Greg Hampel of Seattle, by ensuring they can travel in Oklahoma without fear their children will be rendered legal orphans. Ken Upton, Senior StaffAttorney in Lambda Legal’s South Central Regional Office in Dallas, is lead attorney on the case, with assistance from Senior StaffAttorney Brian Chase. Sandy Ingraham of Ingraham & Associates, EL.L.C. in McLoud, Oklahoma, served as cooperating attorney in Finstuen et al v. Edmondson et al. Tulsa GLBT leader addresses new AIDS/ Americorp volunteers By Joey De To most people, leaving town only a week after starting a new job would be a nightmare. To Oklahomans for Equality’s new Interim Executive Director Justice Waidner, it was an opportunity to give back to a program that she feels changed her life and began a life career in service. Waidner, who assumed her new role at OKEq on Aug. 1, addressed the latest teams of National Aids Fund/Americorp members just a few days later in Washington, DC on Aug. 11. The teams, who traveled from seven cities around the nation, including Tulsa, were undergoing their annual "preservice" training before beginning their year of HIV/AIDS related service. A two-term alumnus of the Americorp program, Waidner took the opporttlnity to share with the group the gravity of the realities they will face, as well as the humanity of service. "The opportunity to serve our communities in this fashion through educating people about this insidious disease and supporting those living with it truly is an awesome life changing gift," said Waidner. Using her personal stories about engaging drifter youths, befriending an HIV-positire eight year old and having to give her first positive test result, \Vgaidner spoke deeply and personally to the group to prepare them for the year ahead. "You will educate, fight inequality, challenge stigma, support, rise up, be present, and stand on the side of social justice. You will be changed and make change," she emphasized. W’aidner was later asked to administer the Americorp Oath of Service to the group, officially marking the end of their training and the beginning of their one year service commitment. "You are my version of gels in America,’" she remarked just shortly before. For information about the National AIDS fund or the Americorp program visit www.aidsfund.org. www.ozarksstar.com �STATEMENT FROM HUMAN GHTS CAMPAIGN ON DEMOCRATIC P SIDENTIAL FORUM WASHINGTON, DC __ On August 9, 2007, the Democratic presidential candidates took part in a national forum on issues facing gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Americans, sponsored jointly by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation and Logo. The following is a statement by Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese on the event: "This was an important night in the fight for equality for GLBT Americans. We pulled the curtain back a bit and gave all Americans a deeper look inside the candidates’ core beliefs about the issues that affect our community. From repealing ’Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,’ supporting equal employment rights, providing full funding for the HIV/AIDS epidemic, to eliminating the Defense of Marriage Act, these candidates went on record and committed to fighting for equality in all sectors of our society. Unfortunately, we have more work to do. The overwhelming majority of the candidates do not support marriage equality. While we heard very strong commitments to civil unions and equality in federa! rights and benefits, their reasons for opposing equality in civil marriage tonight became even less clear. Over the course of the presidential campaign, we will continue to ask these questions and demand real answers from the candidates who appeared -- and from those who didn’t show up. The next president must be committed to not only doing what’s achievable, but also what’s right." The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. Great, now say it on the stump. "Slll good and some great, but now we need all the candidates --particularly the f~ontrunners -- to take a standfor us on the stump, in j~ont ofall audiwaces. " Matt Foreman, Executive Director, National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, Inc. WASHINGTON, DC__ The 2008 Democratic presidential candidates, except for Sens. Joe Biden and Christopher Dodd, addressed lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues at a forum aired Augkust 9th on the Logo cable channel. Statement by Matt Foreman, Executive Director National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, Inc. discrimination and hate violence, repealing ’Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,’ and rights for our families. In 2004, at a similar forum also organized by our friends at the Human Rights Campaign, Democratic presidential candidates said the same thing. ’Tkll good and some great, but now we need all the candidates, particularly the frontrunners, to take a stand for us on the stump, in front of all audiences. The Republican side hasn’t given up using gay people for political gain and most of the Republican candidates bash us everpvhere they go. But so far, the Democratic frontrunners rarely talk about us except at our events, such as tonight, or when asked a specific question, and even then, they tend to freeze up. "That’s got to stop. We challenge the Democratic frontrunners to step from behind the lavender curtain and consistently, unapologetically speak for our fundamental humanity everywhere they go. "On behalf of our national community, we want to thank Joe Solmonese, Melissa Etheridge, Jonathan Capehart and Margaret Carlson for pressing the candidates on key issues, including marriage equality." McPride Family Picnic in Chadick Park, McAl[ester -Saturday, September 22nd, 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. MCALESTER, OK(PR)__McPride is hosting the Third Annual Family Picnic, Saturday, September 22nd at Chadick Park, McMester, OK (6th and Delaware), from 11 a.m. until 5p.m. for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, allied (GLBTA) and interested people. The picnic wil! feature speakers, singers, games, booths of information and fun for all people - gay and straight alike. Come out for an afternoon of fun and heart warming experiences. (Alcoholic beverages are NOT allowed in Chadick Park.) Living up to our mission, we believe it is important to create an opportunity for GLBTA people to be visible and to share our pride in who we are, express the love and acceptance of our families, create an opportunity to meet and get to know us. You have an opportunity to be involved on many levels in this great event. Plan to attend, be a sponsoring organization/church, a supporter, an entertainer, or a volunteer. Help make this picnic a bigger success than last year’s! Table space is available for pro-GLBTA groups who would like to display and/or sell resources at the picnic. Space must be reserved in advance. Contact Paul at 918-329-7820 or www.mcpride.org more information. "It’s great that tonight the 2008 Democratic candidates reiterated their support for many issues critical to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans, like long-stalled protections from www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 11 �WHERE THE DE OC TBC CANDidATES STAN An analysis of the candidates’ questionnaires on issues of concern to the GLBT community Federal Recognition of State-Level Same-Sex Unions 1 Supports recognition by the federal government of a state’s legal recognition of same-sex couples for purposes of fe.deral benefits and tax treatment HUMA~q RIGHTS CAMPAIGN~ 4- ENDA Supports passage of a federal bill prohibiting job discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity Hate Crimes Supports passage of a federal bill that gives authority to the federal government to investigate and prosecute violent crimes motivated by bias against the victim because of their sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or disability Same-Sex IVlarriage Supports allowing civil marriage rights for same-sex couples Civil Unions Supports civil unions for same-sex couples Federal Benefits for Same-Sex Couples Supports extending federal benefits, rights, privileges and responsibilities to same-sex couples and their children provided the partnership meets certain federal standards of commitment and mutuality of interest Coverage Under the FIVILA Supports expansion of the Family and Medical Leave Act to cover domestic partners and their children Access to Survivor Benefits Supports paying survivor benefits to the same-sex partners of gay and lesbian people 2 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �+ ÷ ÷ ÷ ÷ ÷ + ÷ + union b~¢~n c~-~e m~ a~qd eaa woma~ ~ husb~.nd a~d ~e~ and the word !s~ase referson~to~a~~esex~,~ !s:a~sbar’,d ~a www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 13 �August 1990 (17 years ago last month): The National Endowment for the Arts rejects an appeal from four artists who 10st funding due to the controversial content of their work. Who were the NEA Four? he "NEA Four" - a gay man, a bisexual man, a lesbian, and a heterosexual feminist - played a prominent role in the culture wars of the late 1980s and early 1990s, when they challenged the withdrawal of their funding from the National Endowment for the Arts and a decency clause imposed on grant recipients. Founded in 1965, the NEA was mandated to consider cultural diversity in its funding decisions. But by the mid-1980s, public support for the arts was threatened by an increasingly conservative political climate. In 1989, Republican la~vmakers and religious right groups launched a campaign against what they deemed morally objectionable art. Opponents ~vere particularly incensed that NEA funds had indirectly supported the work of Robert Mapplethorpe - renowned for his homoerotic and sadomasochistic images - and Andres Serrano, who photographed a crucifix in a jar of urine. During a time of moral panic about homosexuality and AIDS, conservative columnist Patrick Buchanan, among others, saw public funding of controversial art as a key battleground in a "culture war" against traditional values. At the behest of Rep. Dick Armey (R-Texas), more than 100 legislators signed a letter to NEA chair John Frohnmayer threatening to withhold federal support if the agency continued to fund "morally reprehensible trash." In the fall of 1989, Congress passed an amendment - introduced by Republican North Carolina Senator Jesse Helms - barring the use of federal money to support work that could be considered obscene, induding "depictions of sadomasochism, homoeroticism, the sexual exploitation of children, or individuals engaged in sex acts." Following a vociferous debate, Congress reauthorized the NEA in 1990, but added a provision that the agency must consider not 14 the STAR only artistic merit, but also "general standams of decency and respect for the diverse beliefs of the American public." In June of that year, citing the new clause and "certain political realities," Frohnmayer rejected grants to four solo performance artists - Karen Finley, Holly Hughes, John Fleck, and Tim Miller - that had been unanimously recommended by a peer review panel. Finley, a heterosexual woman and the best known of the four, was renowned for smearing chocolate on her naked body to represent the degradation of women. Hughes (a lesbian and former anti-porn feminist), Fleck (a gay man whose act included urinating onstage - but not, as accused, on a Bible), and Miller (a bisexual AIDS activist) all included explicit homosexual themes in their work. In addition to the NEA Four, conservatives also objected to federal funding for Marion Riggs’ film about the black gay experience, Tongues Untied (1989), the GLBT film company Frameline, and the work of Ron Athey, an HIV-positive artist who incorporated ritual body raodification and bloodletting into his performances. Civil libertarians and queer activists reacted with outrage to the encroachment on freedom of expression, but little support came from the straight left or the mainstream arts establishment, because, as Hughes explained, "anxieties about sexuality, the body, and race are not just anxieties of the right, they are anxieties also of downtown artists." After the NEA rejected their request for an appeal in August 1990, the four defunded artists - with the support of the American Civil Liberties Union and the Center for Constitutional Rights - filed a lawsuit in federal court demanding reinstatement of their grants and rescinding of the NEA’s decency provision, arguing that the guidelines were vague and unconstitutional. In 1992, federal district judge Wallace Tashima ruled in their favor; the government, he said, does not have "free rein to impose whatever content restrictions it chooses," since "the right of artists to challenge conventional wisdom and values is a cornerstone of artistic and academic freedom." Four years later, the Ninth Circuit Court upheld Tashima’s ruling. The NEA Four won a settlement reinstating their original grants and awarding legal costs, but the Clinton administration appealed the lower court decision regarding the decency clause. In June 1998, the Supreme Court ruled by a vote of 8 to 1 that Congress has wide latitude to set spending priorities. Wrote Justice Antonin Scalia, "Avant-garde artistes...remain entirely free to epater la bourgeoisie [shock the middle class]; they are merely deprived of the additional satisfaction of having the bourgeoisie taxed to pay for it." However, the sole dissenting justice, David Souter, said that the law carried "a significant power to chill artistic production and display." Mthough the original NEA implementation language stated that it was the government’s proper role "to help create and sustain not only a climate encouraging freedom of thought, imagination, and inquiry, but also the material conditions facilitating the release of this creative talent," the NEA Four case illustrated a shift in public support for the arts. In 1996, Congress cut the agency’s budget from a high of more than $170 million to less then $100 million, and the NEA ceased funding individual performance artists; legislators increased the budget in subsequent years, but never to its former level. Perhaps an even more profound outcome was the chilling effect it had on artists. "There’s enormous commercial pressure to be more mainstream," said Hughes. ’’A lot of the counter-cultural edge has really disappeared." For further reading: Bolton, Richard (editor). 1992. Culture W-ars: Documents from the Recent Controversies in the Arts (Ne~v Press). Brenson, Michael. 2001. Visionaries and Outcasts: The NEA, Congress, and the Place of the Visual Arts in America (New Press). Wallis, Brian, Marianne Weems, and Philip Yenawine (editors). 1999. Art Matters: How the Culture Wars Changed America (Ne~v York University Press). www.ozarksstar.com �In Memoriam EUREI’CA_ SPPdNGS, AR~55 antique dealers from 14 different states will converge on this Ozark town November 17 and 18 for the 19th Annual Eureka Springs Fall Antique Show and Sale. A special Wine & Cheese Preview will be held on Friday, November 16, 5:30-7 p.m. The popular yearly event will be held at the Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center, Hwy. 62 West. This is one of the ldckoffevents for the busy Thanksgiving and Christmas season. Attendees will pay $10 for this first chance at the antiques brought by dealers from around the country. This fee covers all days. Regular show hours on Saturday are 10 am to 6 pm and 10 am to 4 pm on Sunday. Admission price for this event is $ 2.50, good for both days. This well-attended show not only draws dealers from many states, it also brings customers fi’om as many as 23 different states. "By now, most antique lovers around this part of the country know that the third weekend in November and the third weekend in March are devoted to antiques here in Eureka Springs," according to Jane Baker. She and her husband, Dave, are show managers. "This is our 19th fall show and it looks to be better than ever," she added. For more information on the festival, contact Dave or Jane Baker at 479-253-7551 or bakerdj@cox.net. For details on Eureka Springs tourism, call 1-866-947-4387 or go online at www.eurekasprings.org. Michael Shane White 1971 - 2007 TULSA, OK __ Michael Shane White of Tulsa, born July 2, 1971 passed away August !3th, 2007 after a long fight with cancer. He is survived by his partner Jackie Hickey, father Chester and wife Barbara White of Sapulpa. His mother Roxanna Porter of Otdahoma City and sister Stephanie White of Choctaw, OK. Shane enjoyed his friends, family, traveling and tending the garden he and Jackie grew. He especially loved early morning walks in the garden when the roses and hibiscus were in bloom. Shane will be truly missed by his loving family and friends. 8 parts lemon (Absolute is good) 1 teaspoon Grand 1 teaspoon fresh lime Lemon twist Combine liquid ingredients in a cocktail shaker with cracked ice and shake well. Strain into a chilled co£ktail glass and garnish on fwist. ~ ~ www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 15 ��~ fresh ~pper, ring of raw mp. martini and head chef deveined-can desired best pper )er powder over medium heat. ice, pepper, paprika, shrimp parsley, immediatel4 rice-bohemio-and a green ice jalapeno pepcan in mexican , Puerto Vallarta see �of Oz with see Donald Pile and Ray Williams ; red velvet sears and you besides seein hal ~ndmarks. ay Landmarks? Below is a list of some of our favorites: ueen ~travaganzas the Greenwich Village in New York was located a 53 Christopher Street. On from an overdose June she was buried and a wake byher gay" fans at the Stonewall Inn in New York. In the lr~ of2~ JMe the police decided to raid the StonewaJl. ~he tl ri0ts were a series o£violent conflicts between the New ps of gays rd mt began during the early anc ~ :l laste~t for ;evera~ da ~’s. AlsD called t~e , : 28~ rStonewalt, the clash was a watershed [I , as gay people had never large numbers to forcibly resist police. was vac.oait and closed for most of the in the early e. in New York is named after Milk, HARVEY M] San Francisco have set off mc earlier and D, but the seeds were in place much" (founded by Phillis Lyon )KSTO~, 15 Christopher ile’w ¯ Out of the ashes, Ztub was formed. Francisco. Be~bre mid dancing dwarves, br pushing [he envelope. ht ~n gay pride ~vhen it transparent windows on street side.. in the heart of the Castor district this COMMUNI~ CHURCH, 8714 Santa Mon24 countries. church in the world. Founded giving ¯ without undermining St. in New York City*. %e world s first gay and lesbian bookshop, it has been shop opene its ~oors fo of a store that Street, a block of the chain bookstores, is: www.oscarwiI- 429 Castro St, in San Francisco (photo 922, the Castro Theatre is San Francisco’s ........................ Continued n~t page www.ozarksstar.com �prawns served with a mango whittle white dipping sauce, Cherty Cola Caribbean BBQ Ribs, Chicken Satan; Cordon Bleu and a grilled Cornish hen with a orange tequila mad brandy sauce. They also serve t}esh steamed mussels euro style with whittle wine and chicken broth to name a few. ~q~eir grilled red snapper with Spa~> ish rice is to die for. N~ev even serve the best Itali~ meatloaf with twice baked potato this side of New York Cib" and Cajun friend chicken, baked ziti pasta and the best veggie burgers in the u,fiverse made ~r0m scratch fbr you vegetarian lovers. Care Bohemio has been written up i~ the New YorkTimes Sunday travel section. It is quite the gay travelers ~nner stop when in Puerto Valtarta. Reservations are re£0mmended on high ~eason Nov-April as they only have 17 tables. You can email as well lbr reservations at ca_febohemio@hotmail, corn or call when in town at 322-t34-2436. Chris and Sol hope to open a Care Bohemio in the near future in fabulous Palm Springs CA, Both are wonderful guys and good friends of ours. We wish them GRF~aiT SUCCESS! by Donald Pile & Ray Williams Featuring Cuisine From Coast to Coast HEMIO, Puerto Val~arta, Mexdco 127 Rodolfb Gomez is located in the roman?uerto Vallarta. Mexico, one block from the Dia de los leach axed located next to the San Marino Hotel. It’s locagay bars are located. former owners of the md B in San Francisco 3ened Care Bohemio 5 several years and have San Francisco. Sol is has created a fabulous inmrnational menu with a a~ veiT aflbrdable prices. "Ihey have a popular , hours daily from 5-7 and 11-midnight with 3ecials where drinks are 2 for 1 all iuesoays are tini "thesdays where martinis ¯ long. Wednesdays are also popular with their 2 is served al fresco outdoor dining under a large mango tables complete your bohemian experience is a memorable $10. American dollars - yes you heard ght! and all meals include at no extra cost homemade chips salsa- a cup of their famous soup of the day and fresh bread. not frozen and all desserts are made on the no pre-mixes 85% of their clients are repeat customers. Some of their dishes include Shrimp Coco Mango, jumbo coconut www.ozarksstar.com LOS N. Schrader Boulevard in Los _Angeles. ~Ihe first gay community center in the country began in 197t, It is the largest gay C0mmunivy center in the United States. MASSACHUSETTS SUPreME COURZ John Adams Court[, house, One Pemberton Square in B0S{0n. ~& the debate over marriage continues today, rhh Supreme Judici~ Court of Massachusetts took a big Step by becoming the first State to legalize same-sex marriage in May of 2004. landmar~ and it is a marvelous Always remember to have fun when traveling, meet new people and talk to everyone! the STAR 19 �I~orbel, one of the Russian River’s top wineries, offers tours of the property and also has a superb gourmet deli that’s perfect for picking up picnic supplies and light lunches. (Photo by Andrew Collins) chocolates. And Wayne Skata Jewelry & Antiques carries some of the most intriguing decorative items and household gifts around. Wine-tasting is a top pastime in these parts, and a great way to begin your explorations is by consulting with David DeVries and John Haggard, two knowledgeable and friendly experts on local wine who operate Sophie’s Cellars, a wonderful little wine and cheese shop in Monte Rio. These guys can recommend and make introductions for you at several high-quality, lesser-known vineyards, some that aren’t otherwise open to the public. Nestled in the redwood-shaded western reaches of Sonoma County, the Russian River Valley is one of Northern California’s most relaxing and gay-friendly weekend getaways. Although the area is occasionally ravaged by wintertime floods, it offers cool and typically sunny weather much of the year, especially in summer. The area comprises the towns of Guerneville, Forestville, Monte Rio, and - where the river empties into the Pacific - Jenner. Gay folks have been weekending here for more than three decades, and the area has always been a terrific spot for camping, canoeing, hiking, and simply relaxing amid peaceful and picturesque surroundings. More recently, the eastern reaches of the area have blossomed into a hub of superb wineries. Although a steady influx of well-heeled San Francisco professionals has given the Russian River a slightly more polished sensibility in recent years, Guerneville and its neighboring communities still look and feel unpretentious - even a bit raffish - compared with such swanky Wine Country towns as Healdsburg and Rutherford. This is a spot where flannel shirts and jeans are 20 the STAR as much in vogue as designer wear. Life here moves at a snail’s pace, and that’s how most locals prefer it. The river defines not only the community’s personality but also the region’s geography. It’s a threat, to be sure, but it’s also the reason devotees love the area. Perhaps the leading activities in summer are floating for several miles down the river on inner tubes and embarking on one of the popular canoe expeditions offered by Burke’s Canoes. For a spectacular hike, drive a few miles north of town to 800-acre Armstrong \Voods, home to some of the tallest and oldest trees in northern California. If you’re hit with a rainy day, fear not: Downtown Guerneville holds an increasingly intriguing selection of shops. Possibilities include the Five & Dime, with its old-fashioned candy section and offbeat gifts; Stone’s River Feed, a whimsically stocked pet-supplies store; River Reader, a quirky bookshop with a GLBT section; and Kings & Q~eens, which stocks cool vintage threads. At Hemp & Chocolat, you can pick up - you guessed it - hemp clothing and accessories, along with gorgeous handmade If you’re out exploring on your own, the best winery-hopping plan is to drive east of Guerneville on River Road. Just outside of town, stop at Korbel Champagne Cellars, which is headquartered in a century-old, creeper-covered brick building. The facility’s Korbel Dell and Microbrewery is a delightful spot to grab lunch - it serves superb panini sandwiches (try the one with salami, Brie, tapenade, roasted peppers, and greens), prepared salads, and fresh-baked sweets, and there’s seating on a !ovely tree-shaded deck. Continue along River Road and make a left onto Westside Road, following this toward Healdsburg. Over the next several miles, you’ll encounter one exceptional winery after another - best bets include Gary Farrell, Porter Creek (amazing pinot noirs), Davis Bynum, Hop Kiln, and Roshambo. Alternatively, explore the wine-growing region south of the river. Fine vineyards in the towns of Forestville, Graton, and Windsor include Joseph Swan, La Crema, DeLoach, Topolos, and Hanna. Many businesses and accommodations in the area distribute free "Russian River Wine Road" brochures and maps, which can help you plot your oenophilic journey - or log on to www.wineroad. com to see the maps there. Where there’s great wine, there’s great food, and Guerneville has gradually improved as a culinary destination in recent years. Charizma Wine Lounge and Dell is a relatively new spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner, wine-tasting, and live jazz some nights. Sophisticated but well-priced options include a baked Petrole sole with mango-jasmine rice, baby beans, and blue mussels, and the smoked-ham and provolone sandwich with ............. Continued next page www.ozarksstar.com �peach-and-onion barbecue sauce. Cape Fear cafe is another very good lunch source - it’s in a small complex of historic buildings a scenic 15minute drive south of Guerneville. When it’s a good old-fashioned burger you’re after, drop by gay-owned Bob N’ Boy in downto~vn Guerneville. Chase down your burgers, hot dogs, and fries with Red Hook beer. Grab breakfast, lunch, or an afternoon espresso snack at the Coffee Bazaar, just offthe main drag along Armstrong Woods Road. The sunny little cafe with free Wi-Fi has wonderfully hearty soups and sand~viches, egg dishes, cakes, cookies, and similarly enticing treats. In Forestville, you’ll find a couple of the region’s best restaurants, including Mosaic Restaurant and Wine Lounge, which serves first-rate contemporary American fare, and the famed Farmhouse Inn, Restaurant, and Spa, which has garnered all kinds of awards and kudos for its innovative cuisine. A typically delicious dish here is the plate of seared pork medallions with caramelized onions, black Mission figs, and parmesan polenta. Other gay-popular accommodations of note include the long-running Russian River Resort (aka the Triple R), a highly social spot with clean and comfy motel-style rooms that received a top-notch makeover in 2006. A rustic but neatly maintained compound of 1920s cottages, the pet-friendy Fern Grove is another highly recommended establishment - many of the knotty-pine units have fireplaces. You don’t often find a predominantly gay resort owned by a straight couple, bui the reasonably priced, beautifully situated Highlands Resort is just that. Friendly innkeepers Ken and Lynette, who know all there is to know about the region, operate this rambling 3-acre spread tucked beneath the boughs ofto~vering redwood trees. Accommodations are set in a series of secluded, nicely appointed cabins, many of them with fireplaces, refrigerators, and coffeemakers. It’s a peacefu! spot (no TVs or phones in the rooms), and nudity is permitted around the pool and hot tub. When you’re truly looking to get away from it all, this compound, just a five-minute walk up the hill from downtown Guerneville, makes the perfect escape. With dinner out of the way, don’t overlook Guerneville’s gay nightlife. Some of the restaurants in these parts have lounges or bars popular with the GLBT crowd, and then there are a couple of self-standing bars. One spot that’s friendly with men and women, old and young, is the Rainbow Cattle Company, a former gambling hall, which draws a genial, outgoing bunch, many of whom tumble in after 11 for a nightcap...or two...or seven. Across the street is Club Yamagata, a space that’s gone through a few incarnations over the years and was known until recently as Liquid Sky. It opened in June 2007 as a hip, mixed gay/straight lounge serving everything from fancy sake-infused cocktails to green teas, smoothies, and appetizers. The Asian-themed spot offers a departure from Guerneville’s somewhat predictable scene. Another good bet is the Triple R Bar at the Russian River Resort, xvhich is home to a pool bar, video lounge, and piano cabaret. The live entertainment and several chatty bartenders are sure to keep everybody’s spirits up. The Russian River has a number of gay-popular accommodations, the most romantic being the posh yet unpretentious Applewood Inn and Restaurant, which is a few minutes’ drive south of downtown Guerneville. Half of the elegant rooms are in the main 1922 Mission Revival house; the others are in a newer building done in the same style. All are loaded with antiques and have European down comforters, and many have hot tubs and fireplaces. Applewood also contains the best restaurant in the area, serving such stellar Mediterranean-influenced victuals as braised rabbit with potato gnocchi, bacon, and English peas. Recently purchased by helpful and enthusiastic couple Dana Murphy and Brian Siewert, the former Ridenhour Inn received a top-tobottom makeover in 2006 and has emerged as the dapper Sonoma Orchid. This sunny yellow farmhouse set high on a bluffalong River Road (very near the Westside Road wineries) has a hot tub in back, six guest rooms in the main house, and four more contemporary and private units in a separate cottage (some of these have fireplaces). Welcoming of kids as well as pets, the Sonoma Orchid is nonetheless a peaceful, romantic hideaway- a terrific addition to the Russian River’s gay-friendly lodging landscape. www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 21 �Campaign Memo Lesbian Notions, at the HRC/Logo Democratic candidates’fot~m. After watching the Human Rights Campaign/Logo presidential forum, I decided a memo to the LGBT handlers, counselors, and advisers to the candidates was in order. Memo to LGBT Candidate Advisers: Thanks for making sure your candidate was at the forum, but I think some of them needed a bit more prep time. I took the liberty of perusing the forum transcripts, and, honestly, each of the candidates needs help with his or her language. In the approximately 15 minutes each candidate had on screen, the actual use of the words lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender was at a minimum. Barack Obama said "LGBT" five times, "gays and lesbians" three, added "transgender" once, and said "gay" twice in the same sentence - "they’ve got gay friends, they’ve got gay family members." John Edwards said "lesbian and gay couples" three times, Dennis Kucinich said "gay" once, Bill Richardson said "gay and lesbian" four times, and Hi!lary Clinton said "gay" and "LGBT" one time each. I have to hand it to Mike Gravel though. He referred to "the gays" twice, but used the word "gay" 10 times! It might be old-fashioned of me, but I gauge a candidate’s comfort with our community with her or his ability to actually say the words. It’s one of my litmus tests. You need to prep your candidates better - when they’re addressing an audience filled with lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender people, they need to say the words. In essence, they need to speak directly to us - not use euphemisms, with which the evening’s forum was rife. A few specific, well-placed references to us would have worked wonders for Obama when he spoke somewhat aw~vardly about civil unions. He said, "I am a strong supporter of not a weak version of civil unions, but of a strong version, in which the rights that are conferred at the federal level to persons of- you know, who are part of the same-sex union are compatible." 22 the STAR Now wouldn’t it have been better if the "Rock Star" candidate - as he was referred to at the forum - said the following? "I am a strong supporter of civil unions where all the federal rights, privileges, and responsibilities are conveyed to lesbian and gay couples." Short, sweet, and to the point. Edwards needs to know that it’s OK to say "lesbian and gay youth" or "LGBT youth." It doesn’t mean you’re recruiting for our side. He was eloquent when speaking about the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Community Center and the work it does for our homeless youth, but a few references to the specific population he was talking about would have served him well. He pondered "All she needs to do is say "LGBT" or "le.sbian and gay" a tew more times, and more of us will be eating out of her hand, thanking her for the crumbs while she consumes the cake." that "without that place [the LA Center], where would these - where would these young people go?" How much stronger, how much more emotional would it have been if he said, "Where would our LGBT youth go?" Edwards also needs a little help saying "transgender" and "transition." In answering a question regarding Susan Stanton, the transgender city manager of Largo, Fla., who lost her job after transitioning, Edwards couldn’t say "transgender." He talked about "going through what they’re going through." When referring back to the question during his closing remarks, he spoke of Stanton’s firing as a case of discrimination based on sexual orientation - wrong! She was fired because of gender identity. All I can say about Kucinich is that if he really wants to be taken seriously, he’s got to tone down the love! Sure, he’s great on our issues, supports same-sex marriage and everything else we want. He may be "evolved," as the forum’s emcee, Margaret Carlson, suggested, but honestly he sounded like a flake - not someone who is presidential. Didn’t anyone prep Richardson at all? We appreciate his record - his calling a special session just to get a domestic-partner bill passed (which didn’t happen). But to not understand a simple question on whether or not being gay is a choice is just politically stupid. His take on "don’t ask, don’t tell," however, was good. "When you have an America that is asking men and women to fight and die, the last thing you need to do is give them a lecture on sexual orientation." Right you are. And then there was Clinton - as slick and smooth as ever. Her answer about opposing same-sex marriage was brilliant: "Well, I prefer to think of it as being very positive about civil unions." She’s taken a cue from Bill - triangulate, triangulate, triangulate. She’s put her own spin on the issue of civil unions, leaving anyone who disagrees with her on it looking like the odd person out. All she needs to do is say "LGBT" or "lesbian and gay" a fe,v more times, and more of us will be eating out of her hand, thanking her for the crumbs while she consumes the cake. Then there’s Gravel. Too bad he’s not electable. He had the LGBT rhetoric down, but it was a little strange when he kept referring to "the gays" who support him - the gays in New York, the gays in San Francisco, the gays in Alaska. I found his honesty about the political scene refreshing and wish he hadn’t left elected office some 25 years ago. We need him in the Senate now more than ever. So there you have it. There may not be another national forum on LGBT issues in the 2008 election, but there will be plenty of opportunities to get your candidates talking the talk so that one of them can walk the walk to the Capitol on January 20, 2009. www.ozarksstar.corn �BOB LEMON INTERVIEW CONT. BOB: I think it’s just that they were brought up that way, and I think that young people today are much less anti-gay than people of my generation. Much of the hate was fueled by tactics such as those used by Karl Rove and the Bush administration, and by anti-gay state questions on ballots during the 2004 elections that were designed to elect conservatives. People like me, straight but not narrow, need to support organizations such as Cimarron Alliance, P-Flag and other groups. This are more straight people involved now. That’s a good trend and I love it. I say this to straight people who believe in democracy, equality and ful! rights for the gay community, come out of your closets! They need to proudly and publicly show themselves as supporters. Someday we will see a mass shift of public opinion. VICTOR: What about the upcoming Oklahoma County Commissioner Race for District One? BOB: I think we need to support Willa Johnson September 11, I believe she would fulfill that office in the Roth tradition. When he held that office, Jim Roth did many wonderful things for Oklahoma County and the GLBT community. He’s a fine public servant, and I’ll be disappointed ifI don’t see him be a governor or president someday. VICTOR: I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. Overall are you optimistic about 2008? BOB: Very optimistic. If our opponents attempt to put wedge issues on the ballot such as gay marriage or other gay rights issues to further their causes I don’t think it will work, or at least not as well, because people are becoming more reasonable and fair minded. My hat is off to the Jim Roths and Al McAffreys out there, because they are paving the way for a better future. Fair minded people, along with the gay community need to keep up their efforts helping good candidates and encouraging good voters. VICTOR: Well, thanks for sharing with us, and we can’t thank you enough for all you’ve done and all that we know you’ll do. It will always inspire our community to do better. BOOM BOOM ROOM MAY BE DOOMED. LAGUNA BEACH, CA In less than three weeks, venerable Laguna Beach, Calif., gay club the Boom Boom Room will shut its doors forever unless a buyer comes to its rescue. Jim Roth receives Hero of Hope _Award from the Cathedral of Hope UCC By Victor Gorin OKLAHOMA CITY, OK __ Oklahoma Corperation Commisioner Jim Roth received the 2007 Hero of Hope Award from Oklahoma City’s Cathedral of Hope UCC Church, an award given for commitment, hardwork and dedication towards a better future for the GLBT community. As the Reverend Scott Jones put it, "Jim received the award because in his very person he embodies the breaking of barriers and creating new possibilities for the future." He was elected in 2002 as an openl~ gay ,nan to the office of Oklahoma County Commissioner District 1, and then reelected in 2006, recognized for outstanding performance in that position. He left that seat this year, appointed by Governor Brad Henry to fill a vacated position on the Oklahoma Corporation Commission. The property’s ownm; Steven Udvar-Hazy, and the operators of the Boom Boom Room and the adjoining Coast Inn were apparently unable to reach an agreement to keep the bar, restaurant and hotel open beyond the coming Labor Day weekend, according to an open letter from preservation group Save the Boom! Udvar-Hazy wants to demolish the property to make way for a larger hotel. Save the Boom! is campaigning to find a buyer who will keep the 60-year-old establishment afloat. The group began its campaign in 2006, gathering 6,000 signatures in three months to preserve the gay institution. A nearby Laguna gay landmark, the Woody’s on the Beach restaurant, closed in February. (The Advocate) Oommuni y Peop ÷ iving with V!A DS Our House, Too offers a variety of activities for people who are HIV+ and or living with A!DS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HtV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves, We invite anyone:who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail harrismmjr@ya hoo,com. www.ozarksstar.com The STAR 23 ���Who would you want as your guardian angel? Whom do you secretly admire? What was the happiest year of your life? ntrospection is defined as an examination of one’s own feelings and thoughts according to the Merriam Webster Dictionary. Introspection can lead you to better understand yourself and ultimately to achieve greater happiness. This greater happiness can help you follow the yellow brick road to better health. I will present dozens of questions for you to contemplate. Get ready to challenge yourself to a smorgasbord of self-discovery. For best results, I recommend you answer honestly Pinocchio. What bad habit do you enjoy the most? What is the largest amount of money you have found? When was the last time you dreamed you were falling? What is the most expensive car you have driven? What movie character do you most resemble? Would you like to live in the future or the past? Have you ever watched someone die in person? What photograph of you is most revealing? What is the angriest moment you have ever experienced? Who is most jealous of you? Are you more of a voyeur or an exhibitionist? What secret will you take to your grave? What person do you trust the most? What is the longest span you’ve gone without sex? When do you feel most relaxed? How do you want to die? Whit whom have you had the best sex? Who has influenced you the most? What has been your proudest moment? What is your earliest childhood memory? What is your greatest fear? \re’hen did you last cry during a movie? What have you always wanted to do but haven’t? Where did you experience your greatest happiness? When did you last lie? What are your pet peeves? These questions should be .just the beginning. Sit down and make a bigger list if you’d like. Knowledge is power. The more you know about yourself, the better equipped you’ll be to go out and face the world. Introspection is just like a massage or a relaxing spell in the hot tub. You’ll feel like a million bucks after this exercise. It is free and you have not a dime to lose. Question #1 is waiting for you in the lobby. Good luck! Who are you most intimidated by? Have you ever considered suicide? What part of your body would you like to replace? This column is brought to you by that guy Ron Blake who has been known to urinate on his shirt and then wrap it around his head to stay coo! when he is out of water and stranded in the desert. Learn more about the little bugger at www.goblakefitness.com. When did you first feel sexual? Whom have you most wanted to hurt? Have you ever driven your car naked? 26 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �STONE\VALL ENDORSES WILLA JOHNSON FOR DISTRICT 1. OKLAHOMA CITY, OK P/R__ The executive committee of Oklahoma Stonewall Democrats voted unanimously on Friday August 17th, to endorie Willa Johnson, the Democratic Party nominee for Oklahoma County Commissioner, District 1. KELLY & JACQ ELINE CARTER S COTT TWO LIVES UNITED MIDWEST CITY, OK __ Kelly and Jacqueline Carter Scott exchanged vows at their Holy Union held on August 11, 2007 at a friend’s home in Midwest City. "l-here were 82 people in attendance with their friends and family. The wedding was conducted by the Reverend Toby Jenkins with Ekklesia Church of Tulsa, followed by feasting, fellowship and fun dancing under the stars with DJ Victorola. Xhey will reside in Oklahoma City. Jacqueline is an RN working with Integris Hospital, and Kelly is the Director of Administration for the Center for Positive Change, an OKC mental health facility. With the endorsement, Stonewall also appropriated $500 for a donation to her campaign fund. "Willa has been a steadfast supporter of human rights and of LGBT issues throughout her years on the Oklahoma City Council, and has pledged to continue that support if elected to the county level," said Steve VanHook, male co-chair of Oklahoma Stonewall. "We urge the entire LGBT community of Oklahoma County to support Willa with donations and volunteer work during this very short campaign, regardless of party affiliation. She will be facing a Republican opponent who already has an established record of homophobia and bigotry toward the LGBT community. We owe it to ourselves to help Willa’s campaign as much as possible," VanHook said. Oklahoma Stonewall is one of over 90 chapters and affiliated dubs of National Stonewall Democrats, and is a recognized federation within the Oklahoma Democratic Party. Quotable Quotes A study by South African sdentists said Wednesday there was no evidence that foods such as garlic and beetroot were a substitute for AIDS medicine, disputing claims by the country’s health minister. An Idaho inmate who castrated herself with a disposable razor blade after prison officials refused to treat her for gender identity disorder should have female hormone therapy paid for by the state, a federal judge said. Cimarron A!liance Foundation Awarded Capacity Building Grant P/R August 22, 2007 OKI.__AHOMA CITY, OK __ The Oklahoma City Community Foundation (OCCF) has awarded a grant to the Cimarron Alliance Foundation (CAF) to support the hiring of a consultant to create a fundraising and financial development plan. The grant presentation is scheduled 10:00 am this Saturday August 25th, 2007 prior to a financial development board retreat funded by this generous grant. Gayle Farley, OCCF Program Coordinator will present the grant to CAF chair, Richard Ogden, and the CAF Board of Directors. The Oklahoma City Community Foundation, the metropolitan area’s non-profit public charity, was founded in 1969 to work with individuals to meet the charitable needs of the community through development and administration of permanent endowment funds for non-profit organizations and other charities. Through its Community Program Grants, the OCCF funds, initiates and leads programs that benefit the community in the area of arts, education, health and human services, beautification and community development. The Cimarron Alliance Foundation, an Oklahoma non-profit educational foundation, was created in 1997 to support equality toward "A Fair and Just Oklahoma’. Cimarron has heightened its fundraising efforts to support a series of educational and charitable programs aimed at promoting fairness and impartiality to all people. The CAF Mission : "To support educational efforts that increase personal self-esteem, promote public enlightenment and advanced equality for LGBT Oklahomans". For further information about these organizations visit: http://www.occf.org or http://www.cimarronalliance.org Dr. Robert G. Crummie, a volunteer "Doctor of the Day" in Raleigh, is in trouble for more than urging electric shock therapy for gay people. www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 27 �Mars in Gemini is loosening lips, and, squaring Uranus, he will have us all blurting out things we’ll wish we hadn’t! Keep your ears open and your mouth shut - or otherwise occupied. Venus is in Leo, so taking pride in taste and discretion can save you lots of trouble. ARIES (March 20 -April 19): To avoid blurting out secrets and betraying trust, let it all be about you! Hold the spotlight and dazzle your friends with your charm and playfulness. If you do get time alone, some creative writing and journaling can offer surprising insights. TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): Resisting the impulse to spend can be hard, but stay within a budget. Friends will egg you on to some fabulous purchase that you’ll regret. What would Mother say? In this case, she’d probably be right. SAG~TTARIUS (November 22 - December 20): Arguments, especially at home, are likely to go badly for you. Artistic and literary diversions will help keep you out of trouble. Those from the lands of your family background can provide surprising insights. CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19): Showing off and learning new sexual techniques can prove very educational for all involved. But are you communicating anything in your love-making besides physical prowess? Take time out to talk about real intimacy, not just erotic gymnastics. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): What you value in your relationships cannot be sufficiently expressed with money and gifts. Efforts to do so now will just prove awkward and expensive. A gesture of affection - a hug, a kiss, or a kind word - is still best. PISCES (February 19 - March 19): You’re full of surprises even you don’t know about. Conversations with your family can expose talents that will prove helpful at work. Be sure to discuss family medical history. What you learn now could save you lots of grief. GEMINI (May 21 - June 20): Your mouth is even more dangerous than usual. Whether you want it or not, you have the ear of bosses and authorities. Running your ideas by a sister first will help you make them more presentable. CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Occupy your mind to keep your mouth out of trouble. Visit museums and art-house films, and keep the discussion impersonal, discussing aesthetics instead of mutual acquaintances. Whatever you say will be heard far and wide! LEO (July 23 - August 22): Talking about sex could actually keep you out of trouble, as then you won’t be gossiping about friends. Even better than discussing sex, continue your research on different techniques and styles~ You’ll have plenty of opportunity! VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Your partner will quickly tire of your complaints about work, and your workplace is no place to kvetch about your love life! Hiding out could be your best bet, even with your partner exploring nonverbal communication. LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): You can enjoy great popularity now, either for your savage wit or for your valuable community service. The latter will also offer you surprising inspirations. SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): OK, you’re hot; we all know you’re hot; and worst of all, you know you’re hot. Now relax and try to have fun without needing to prove anything. You can’t play anyone else’s instrument while you’re tooting your own horn. MCC METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES Rev Steve 3". Uric Spirit of Christ MCC 2902 E 20th Street Joplin, MO 64804 417-529-8480 Worship Saturdays at 10:00 AM Community Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM MCC of the Living Spring 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays at 6:00 PM Have a God filled and BleSSed Day! 28 the STAR ~wvw.ozarksstar.com �Arkansas, Bentonville/Rogers (479) NWA GLBT Ctr .... www.nwaglbtcc.org ......... 888-391-9222 Barnes & Noble Bks - - 261 N. 46th St., Rogers- - - -479-636-2002 Arkansas, Eureka Springs (479) Diversity Pride Events www.diversitypride.com A Byrd’s Eye View..... 36 N. Main - - 479-253-0200 Caribe Restaurante .... 309 W VanBuren ....... 479-253-8102 Henri’s ....... 19 1/2 Spring St--479-253-5795 Lumberyard Bar&Grill--- 105 E VanBuren ....... 479-253-0400 MCC Living Spring - 17 Elk Street- Service 6PM- - -479-253-9337 Swiss Holiday Resort- Hwy 62 at Hwy 23 So.- .... 888-582-8464 Tiki Torch75 S. Main Street. - -479-253-2305 Tradewinds Lodge - 141 W. VanBuren 800-242-1615 Arkansas, Fayetteville (479) Condom Sense 418 W. Dickson ...... -479-444-6228 Curry’s Video - - - 612 N. College Ave .......... -479-521-0009 Flames Bar - - - 40 E. Center- - - 479-251-1922 Passages ...... 930 N. College Ave-479-442-5845 Tangerine Club - -21 N. Block Ave ............. 479-587-9512 Arkansas, Fort Smith (479) Kinkeads....... 1004 1/2 Garrison Ave.- ...... 479-782-6969 Klub XLR8 ...... 1022 Dodson Ave ...........479-782-9578 Arkansas, Hot Springs (501) Jesters Lounge .... 1010 E. Grand Ave ........ 501-624-5455 Arkansas, Little Rock (501) Back Street .... 1021 Jessie Rd-501-6642744 Diamond State Rodeo Assoc.- www.dsra.org Discovery..... 1021 Jessie Rd-501-666-6900 Sidetracks--- 415 Main St--North L.R.- ........ 501-244-0444 The Factory ...... 412 Louisiana St. 501-372-3070 Club U.B.U. - ..... 824 W Capitol Ave 501-375-8580 Kansas, Junction City (785) Xcalibur Club ...... 384 GrantAve. 785-762-2050 Kansas, Pittsburg (620) PSU-QSA.- - 1701 S. Broadway- .............. 620-231-0938 River of Life Church.- - 1709 N. Walnut, Service 11AM Kansas, Wichita (316) Our Fantasy/South40 ..... 3201 S. Hillside ...... 316-682-5494 Club Glacier- ........ 2828 E. 31st South ...... 316-612-9331 Missouri, Ava (417) Catus Canyon Campground ................. 417-683-9199 Missouri, Joplin (417) Fantasy2331 E 7th St- ....... -417-626-7275 MCC Spirit of Christ- - -2902 E 20th, - ....... Sat Service-9:30AM Joplin Gay/Lesbian Cntr- PO Box 4383, zip 64803- -417-622-7821 Missouri, Kansas City (816) 40th Street Inn ....www.40thstreetinn.com ....... 816-561-7575 Concourse Park B&B - - 300 Benton BIvd 816-231-1196 Hydes KC Gym & Guest Hs - www.hydeskc.com - - 816-56t-t010 Missie B’s .... 805 W. 39th St. -816-561-0625 Missouri, Springfield (417) The Edge ..... 424 Boonville Ave ............. 417-831-4700 GLO Comm. Ctr-- -518 E. Commericat. 417-869-3978 JR’s Nightclub .... 504 E. Commerical ......... 417-831-9001 Martha’s Vineyard- - - 219 W Olive -4!7-864-4572 Ronisuz Place .... 821 College417-864-0036 Oklahoma, Enid (580) Hastings Books .... 104 Sunset - 580-242-6838 Oklahoma, Lawton (580) Ingrids Bookstore ..... 1124 NW Cache Rd ...... 580-353-1488 Oklahoma, I~,~cAlester (918) McPride .... POBox 1515, - .... McAlester, OK 74502 Oklahoma, Oklahoma City (405) American Crossroads B&B - POBox 270642 ...... 405-495-1111 Blue Dog Liquor- ......4015 N. Penn -405-606-7000 Boom Room ........ 2807 NW 36th St-405-601-7200 Border’s Books ...... 3209 NW Expressway ..... 405-848-2667 CD Warehouse ...... 4001 N. Penn 405-525-7766 Christie’s Toy Box ..... 3126 N. May Ave ....... 405-946-4438 Church of Open Arms ...... 3131 N. Penn ...... 405-525-9555 Copa -2200 NW 39th Exp ........ 405-525-0730 Eastern Ave Video- - -1105 S Eastern Ave ....... -405-6726459 Finishline ....... 2200 NW 39th Expwy....... -405-525-9200 First Amendment Tatoo Shop- - - 2135 NW 39th - - -405-604-391! Gushers Restaurant..... 2200 NW 39Exp ...... 405-525-0730 Habana Inn ........ 2200 NW 39th Exp 405-528-2221 Herland Sisters Resources .... 2312 NW 39th St--405-521-9696 H i-Lo Club 1221 NW 50th 405-843-1722 Jungle Reds ....... 2200 NW Expwy405-524-5733 Ledo ............. 2200 NW Expw~j405-525-0730 Naughty But Nice .... 3121 SW 29th St ........ 405-681-5044 Partners ......... 2805 NW 36th St ..........405-942-2199 Red Rock North- - - 2240 NW39th St. 405-525-5165 Phoenix Rising .... 2120 NW 39th St...........405-601-3711 The Park2125 NW 39th St -405-528-4690 The Patio ........ 3201 N. May Ave 405-917-1663 Tramps ............ 2201 NW 39th -405-521-9888 Ziggy’s 4005 N. Penn 405-521-9999 Oklahoma, Tulsa (918) Bamboo Lounge .... 7204 E. Pine ..... 918-836-8700 Border’s Book Store- - - 2740 E. 21st 918-712-9955 Border’s Book Store - - - 8015 S. Yale - 918-494-2665 Circle Cinema ...... 10 S. Lewis ............. 918-592-3456 Club 209 ....... 209 N. Boulder .... 918-584-9944 Club Majestic....... 124 N. Boston 918-584-9494 Club Maverick ..... 822 S. Sheridan -918-835-3301 Cosmo Deli & Bar- - 6746 S. Memorial 918-459-0497 Dreamland Bks .... 8807 E. Admiral PI -918-834-1051 Equality Center ..... 621 E. 4th Street. .918-743-4297 Hideaway Cocktail Lounge- - - 11730 E. 11th ...... 918-437-0449 HOPE Clinic ....... 3540 E. 31st918-749-8378 Midtown319 E. 3rd- - 918-584-3112 Openarms Youth Projt - - - 2015 S. Lakewood ..... 918-838-7104 Our House, Too ....203 N Nogales Ave .918-585-9552 Renegades. 1649 S. Main 918-585-3405 Sappho’s 816 S. Sheridan Rd ........ 918-836-8992 Tulsa CARES .... 3507 E. Admiral P!918-834-4194 Tulsa Central Library ...... 400 Civic Center---- 918-596-7977 Tulsa Eagle ..... 1338 E. 3rd ....918-592-1188 TNT’s 2114 S. Memorial918-660-0856 Yellow-Brick-Rd ....... 2630 E. 15th .......... 918-293-0304 �Keller Will~ams Realty Ch~ck Breckenridge Whether buying or selling I’ll work hard for you. ~ Arkansas GLBT Community Center " Linking " " Togeth e~"as One" For more information: 888-391-9222 WWW.NWAGLBTCC.ORG 3O the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 31 �� Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data magazine Text Any textual data included in the document 2 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 3 ~ G~.~T $1URVII~Y 88.6% of combined Gays and Lesbians voted in the 2004 Presidential Hection. For the 2006 Mid-Term Hection 81.7% combined Gay and Lesbian readers voted. HRC and NGLTF comment on the history making GLBT Forum August 9th on LOGO TV. Finley, a heterosexual woman and the best known of the four, was renowned for smearing chocolate on her naked body to represent the degrad.ation ofwomen. The Chardonnay grape variety is a classic white wine grape grown all around the world. The original fame of Chardonnay comes from its success in the region of France. Gay Travelers: USA Gay Landmarks Out of Town: Russian River, CA Dining In or OUT L.ESB~AN NOTIONS GLBT Forum revue: I have to hand it to Mike Gravel though. He referred to "the gays" twice, but used the word "gay" 10 times! F~TNESS Introspection can lead you to better understand yourself and ultimately to achieve greater happiness. ON THE COVER: GLBT Forum Participants 4 the STAR STAR DISTRIBUTION: OKLAHOMA CITY * TULSA* LAWTON * MCALESTER * ENID * LITTLE ROCK * NORTH LITTLE RODK * FAYETTEVILLE * FT SMITH * EUREKA SPRINGS * HOT SPRINGS * BENTONVILLE * ROGERS * KANSAS CITY * SPRINGFIELD * JOPLIN * BRANSON AREA* WICHITA * PITTSBURG * JUNCTION CITY www.ozarksstar.corn Ne t E ecdon could be decided by Gays and Lesbians San Francisco-based Community Marketing Inc. conducted a nationwide survey earlier this year that the STAR and you, our readers took part. The study found an astounding 92% of gay male respondents (92.5%) reported that they voted in the 2004 presidential election with nearly 84% (83.8%) reporting that they voted in the mid-term election in 2006. Results for lesbians were similar with nearly 91% (90.7%) of lesbian respondents reporting that they voted in the 2004 presidentia! election and 78% reporting that they voted in the mid-term election in 2006. In comparison, media reports estimate that 64% of the general population voted in the 2004 presidential election and just 40% of the general population voted in the 2006 mid-term election. Results of the STAR survey, readers were slightly lower with 88.6% of combined Gays and Lesbians voting in the 2004 Presidential Election. For the 2006 Mid- Term Election 81.7% combined Gay and Lesbian readers voted. In comparison to the general population that is still an impressive difference for GLBT Oklahomans and the region. Among the results from the STAR survey we found interesting was on the question, "Importance of Gay Marriage" only 30% of our readers thought it was the most important issue. While 57.6% settled for Domestic Partnership and/or_civil union recognition. 12.3% felt there were more important GLBT issues. In the STAR "Commentary" this issue, James Nimmo addresses the question of " How We Should Address the Gay and Lesbian Community" This is what our survey found on the same question. 38.6% said "Gay & Lesbian", 35% said "GLBT", 19.9% "LGBT", 17% "Gay Men or Worneft’ and 12.3% suggested "Alternative". I thank our readers for the great response we had for the STAR in this very important survey of our community. We will be publishing more results in coming issues. Sincerely, Charles (Chaz) Ward www.ozarksstar.com New National Survey Shows Gays and Lesbians Outpace U.S. Average in Voting Participation Respondents: Homosexuality I4/71l Still Be a Divisive Issue in Ten Yeats SAN FRANCISCO, CA A new national survey reveals that gay and lesbian consumers are far more likely to have voted in the last presidential and midterm elections than the population in general. Significant numbers of both gay men and lesbians also donated to a political party in the past year. The survey also found that despite significant social and political progress over the past decade, majorities of both gays and lesbians believe homosexuality will remain a "divisive" issue in ten years. The survey results are included in the Gay Consumer IndexTM and Lesbian Consumer IndexTM, precedent-setting national surveys of more than 12,000 gay Americans and 10,000 lesbian Americans conducted by Community Marketing Inc. in spring 2007 and set to be released later this month. "The results of the Gay Consumer Index and Lesbian Consumer Index demonstrate that the political parties would be smart to pay attention to the issues that mean the most to gay and lesbian voters," declared Tom Roth, president of Community Marketing Inc. "We have far more at stake than the average voter and we’re therefore far more engaged in the political process." Slighdy more than 31 percent of lesbian respondents (31.1%) reported that they made a financial contribution to a political party in the past twelve months. Forty percent (40.1%) of gay male respondents reported that they made a financial contribution m a politica! party in the past twelve months. And finally, large majorities of gay male and lesbian respondents agreed with the statement that "homosexuality will still be a divisive issue in the USA in 10 years." A new national survey reveals that gay and lesbian consumers are far more likely to have voted in the last presidential and midterm elections than the population in general. Significant numbers of both gay men and lesbians also donated to a political party in the past year. The survey also found that despite significant social and political progress over the past decade, majorities of both gays and lesbians believe homosexuality will remain a "divisive" issue in ten years. The survey results are included in the Gay Consumer IndexTM and Lesbian Consumer IndexTM, precedent-setting national surveys of more than 12,000 gay Americans and 10,000 lesbian Americans conducted by Community Marketing Inc. in spring 2007 and set to be released later this month. "The results of the Gay Consumer Index and Lesbian Consumer Index studies demonstrate that the political parties would be smart to pay attention to the issues that mean the most to gay and lesbian voters," declared Tom Roth, president of Community Marketing Inc. "We have far more at stake than the average voter and we’re therefore far more engaged in the political process." More than 92% of gay male respondents (92.5%) reported that they voted in the 2004 presidential election with nearly 84% (83.8%) reporting that they voted in the mid-term election in 2006. Results for lesbians were similar with nearly 91% (90.7%) of lesbian respondents reporting that they voted in the 2004 presidential election and 78% reporting that they voted in the midterm election in 2006. In comparison, media reports estimate that 64% of the general population voted in the 2004 presidential election and just 40% of the general population voted in the 2006 mid-term election. Slightly more than 31 percent of lesbian respondents (31.1%) reported that they made a financial contribution to a political party in the past twelve months. Forty percent (40.1%) of gay male respondents reported that they made a financial contribution to a political party in the past twelve months. And finally, large majorities of gay male and lesbian respondents agreed with the statement that "homosexuality will still be a divisive issue in the USA in 10 years." Community Marketing, Inc., founded in 1992, is the global leader in gay and lesbian market research, strategies and communications. More info: www. CommunityMarketinglnc.com Rivendell Media, Inc., America’s leading gay and lesbian media placement firm, co produced the Gay Consumer Index" and Lesbian Consumer Index TM studies, which were sponsored, in part, by Absolut. More info: www.RivendellMedia.com the STAR 5 I before E excep after C. L be£ore G excep Be£ore B? How Equallity by Jim Nimmo OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__ A few days ago I was in an email exchange with some gay guys and the thread was about the spelling of our orientational moniker/acronym commonly used as a short hand to describe us in the media. Is it LGBT or GLBT? And there’s even LGBTQi which resembles a row on the computer keyboard. There was even the suggestion ofSOGI (sexual orientation and gender identity) but say it out loud and it sounds like an adjective some of us could use to name the after effects of sexual exertion rather than sexual orientation. This year our 2007 Oklahoma City Parade was prefixed with GLBTI, which again, said out loud, sounds like a word for insincerity. Why should any particular letter come before the other? With my tongue, GLBT comes out easier than LGBT with a more defined rhythm, but I’m just referring to ease of speech; being a musician I’m attuned to that anyway. We often hear the phrase "men and women" but we also hear "ladies and gentlemen." Why do we say "salt and pepper" and not the other way round? Knife and fork, birds and bees, paper and pencil? Well, I think our equality movement IS about exertion and certainly NOT about insincerity. for their own gender-emotionally, romantically, and erotically--are referred to as gay, period. A~ I going to get hate mail from the women because I would drop the "lesbian" term? I could just as easily expand my dream world and drop the "gay" word altogether and let people have their sexual expression without hang-ups about words and the straight-world permission or opprobrium these red-flag words convey. This is what ,ve had, etymologically, before the prudo-pseudo-scientific "advances" of the Victorian era, when the word "homosexual" was invented. Before that time sex between men was plain sodomy, sex between women was just affection. Even farther back in some societies, sex between older and younger men was the transmission of the spirit and continuation of the life force which enabled young men to become leaders and progenitors in their tribes. The female will ALWAYS be superior anyway. It’s possible for them to conceive by parthenogenesis--no male required! But of course, the gay orientation is not about sexual reproduction as our enemies and two State Supreme Court decisions from 2006 would have us believe. Gayness is about having the right to privacy to exercise our affectional and emotional bonds as we like with consenting adults. Gayness is about having the same rights as any other man or woman who has chosen opposite-gender marriage or co-habitation, with or without progeny. Unless we exert with growing force our birth-right entitlement to equality, we’re going to be seen by our enemies as insincere. I would like to spell my orientation like this: AMERICAN. And why should we develop these sensitivities about spellings and acronyms? In my dream world (not to be confused with my fantasy world) people with a yen 6 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com w~ev.ozarksstar.com the STAR 7 Recognized by Keller Williams For outstanding achievement 2005 and 2006 l~A LTY Chuck Breckenridge 918-706-1887 REALTOI~ Whether buying or selling I’ll work hardforyou. "At Century 21 Gold Castle our BEST properties are our PEOPLE’ 4301 NW 63rd, Suite 100 Oklahoma City, OK 73116 8 the STAR 405.840.2106 www.c21goldcastle.com GINGER ~MAR and Stephanie DeBarse Matthew Heath-Fitzgerald Susan Leah Let us promote your business in a UNIQUE & DIVERSE market. Cal~ STAR ADVlERT~S~NG today. 8)835o7887 www.ozarksstar.com OKLAI OMAN W’INNER OF THE LIFETIME COMMITMENT AWARD FROM THE NATIONAL STONEW-ALL DEMOCRATS "Gay People Aren’t Broken, and They Don’t Need Fixing" Photo: Bob Lemon wit/~ daughter Robyn Lemon Sellers This year’s winner was Oklahoma’s own Bob Lemon, a longtime friend of the GLBT community and overal! champion for progressive causes. No stranger to honors, this year he also received the Irene Tyson Award from the Oklahoma Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus. He’s the proud dad of 5 grown children (Del, Jim, Robyn, Chrys & Hi Moque). The contributions and support he has given the GLBT community are truly too numerous to list here, but now he shares some of his reflections about what it means to him as well as us. INTERVIEW By Victor Gorin VICTOR: You are a longtime champion of equality for the GLBT community. What got you started on that path? BOB: My first real awareness of this issue happened when we were at a convention of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Kansas City during 1977. Mary Lou and I learned of a minister who was forced to resign from his church because his son was gay. We were living in Perryton Texas then, and very loyal to our church and our denomination. In 1979 at another convention in St. Louis, Mary Lou and I attended a workshop on homosexuality. It was headed by a medical doctor from Oklahoma University who maintained that gayness was not a choice, that they were "naturally that way." Throughout the years we read a great deal about gay history and equality. VICTOR: Later on it touched your own family. BOB: Our interest really peaked when 1993 when Mary Lou and I learned, to our complete surprise, that our son Chris was gay when ~wvw.ozarksstar.corn he came out to us at the age of 36. Today he is an attorney in Washington D,C., and we have attended functions together of the Stonewall Democrats, but at the time we had no idea. He’d had an outstanding background. In high school he had been Student Body President & an Eagle Scout, and later served in the air force as a flight instructor before becoming an attorney. Although it was a surprise, we told him it didn’t bother us. We also adopted a young gay man, Eli Moque Grayson, who is now living in California and is an interior designer. He’s worked on some distinguished homes including the late Bob Hope. VICTOR: The Mary Lou Lemon Humanitarian Award, given by the Oklahoma Stonewall Democrats, is named after your late wife. Obviously she was a great friend and inspiration. How long were you married? BOB’. 52 years and 2 days. We had met at a high school get together on Lake Fryor near Perry ton. She was a beautiful, blonde blue eyed woman, and I had lots of competitors. We got married when we were both in college, I attended Oklahoma A&M ( now OSU) and she was at Panhandle State University in Goodwell, Oklahoma.. We had a wonderful life, raised wonderful children, and she was a champion for equality for everyone. VICTOR: You later had gotten involved with P-Flag? BOB: Yes, we had gotten involved and been to their national meetings. When I was on the board of the Christian Church Disciples of Christ in Perryton, which I thought was a liberal church, I had made a motion to allow P-Flag to meet at our church, as did many others groups. That motion got a few minutes of discussion before it was voted down, 35-1, and I was the dissenting vote. Our efforts to change their attitudes were unsuccessful. Soon after that we left that church." VICTOR: You joined Mayflower UCC when you moved to Oklahoma City in 2000. BOB: We attended a few times and fell in love with it, beginning when we read their" open and affirming" statement. Not all churches then were so accepting. VICTOR: What is hardest for older people to give up their prejudices? ........................Continued page-23 the STAR 9 Uo So Court o£Appeals Upholds Decision Striking Down Oklahoma’s Adop, on InvM dat on Law in Lawsuit Brought by L bda LegM ’The Adoption Invalidation Law was reckless legislation that jeopardized the safety and well being of children and undermined parents’ rights.’ DENVER, CO__ August 3, 2007 -- In a 35-page decision, a panel of the U. S. Court ofAppeals for the 10th Circuit rejected the Oklahoma Department of Health’s challenge to a lower court decision striking down an Oklahoma law so.extreme that it threatened to make children adopted by same-sex couples in other states legal orphans when the families are in Oklahoma. The ruling is important not only in Oklahoma, but also to families across the United States, including in Seattle and Houston, home to two of the families who joined in the suit. "Today’s decision supports the lower court’s finding that same-sex couples who choose to adopt are entitled under the U.S. Constitution to have their relationships with their children respected in every state," said Ken Upton, Senior StaffAttorney in Lambda Legal’s South Central Regional Office and lead attorney on the case. "N~e Adoption Invalidation Law was reckless legislation that jeopardized the safety and well-being of children and undermined parents’ rights." Although the governor and attorney general were content to abide by the lower court’s finding, the Oklahoma Commissioner of Health sought review of a part of the judgment that required the Department of Health to issue an amended birth certificate to the adopted child of a same-sex couple that accurately reflected both women as the child’s legal parents. The Court rejected the challenge and affirmed the judgment requiring issuance of a proper birth certificate. In doing so, the 10th Circuit panel also agreed with Lambda Legal that the law violated the Full Faith and Credit Clause of the U.S. Constitution. In the opinion released today, U. S. Senior Circuit Judge David M. Ebel wrote, "final adoption orders by a state court of competent jurisdiction are judgments that must be given full faith and credit under the Constitution by every other state in the nation. Because the Oklahoma statute at issue categorically rejects a class of out-of-state adoption decrees, it violates the Full Faith and Credit Clause." The Adoption Invalidation Law, hastily passed at the end of the 2004 Oklahoma legislative session, had said that Oklahoma "shall not recognize an adoption by more than one individual of the same sex from any other state or foreign jurisdiction." Lambda Legal argued that the law was unconstitutional based on the United States Constitution’s guarantees of equal protection and due process, as ~vell as the mandates of the Full Faith and Credit Clause. Today’s decision leaves intact a decision by the U.S. Court for the Western District of Oklahoma that agreed with these challenges and held that the statute indeed violates the United States Constitution by singling out a specific group. Neither the governor nor the attorney general of Oklahoma challenged the trial court’s decision that struck down the antigay Adoption Invalidation Law. The appellate court’s decision also requires the Oklahoma Department of Health to issue a birth certificate to the daughter of a samesex couple in Oklahoma accurately listing the names of both parents. In addition to same-sex couples raising children in Oklahoma, the ruling benefits samesex couples and their families in other states, including two of the couples who brought suit, Heather Finstuen and Anne Magro, now living in Houston, and Ed Swaya and Greg Hampel of Seattle, by ensuring they can travel in Oklahoma without fear their children will be rendered legal orphans. Ken Upton, Senior StaffAttorney in Lambda Legal’s South Central Regional Office in Dallas, is lead attorney on the case, with assistance from Senior StaffAttorney Brian Chase. Sandy Ingraham of Ingraham & Associates, EL.L.C. in McLoud, Oklahoma, served as cooperating attorney in Finstuen et al v. Edmondson et al. Tulsa GLBT leader addresses new AIDS/ Americorp volunteers By Joey De To most people, leaving town only a week after starting a new job would be a nightmare. To Oklahomans for Equality’s new Interim Executive Director Justice Waidner, it was an opportunity to give back to a program that she feels changed her life and began a life career in service. Waidner, who assumed her new role at OKEq on Aug. 1, addressed the latest teams of National Aids Fund/Americorp members just a few days later in Washington, DC on Aug. 11. The teams, who traveled from seven cities around the nation, including Tulsa, were undergoing their annual "preservice" training before beginning their year of HIV/AIDS related service. A two-term alumnus of the Americorp program, Waidner took the opporttlnity to share with the group the gravity of the realities they will face, as well as the humanity of service. "The opportunity to serve our communities in this fashion through educating people about this insidious disease and supporting those living with it truly is an awesome life changing gift," said Waidner. Using her personal stories about engaging drifter youths, befriending an HIV-positire eight year old and having to give her first positive test result, \Vgaidner spoke deeply and personally to the group to prepare them for the year ahead. "You will educate, fight inequality, challenge stigma, support, rise up, be present, and stand on the side of social justice. You will be changed and make change," she emphasized. W’aidner was later asked to administer the Americorp Oath of Service to the group, officially marking the end of their training and the beginning of their one year service commitment. "You are my version of gels in America,’" she remarked just shortly before. For information about the National AIDS fund or the Americorp program visit www.aidsfund.org. 10 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com STATEMENT FROM HUMAN GHTS CAMPAIGN ON DEMOCRATIC P SIDENTIAL FORUM WASHINGTON, DC __ On August 9, 2007, the Democratic presidential candidates took part in a national forum on issues facing gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Americans, sponsored jointly by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation and Logo. The following is a statement by Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese on the event: "This was an important night in the fight for equality for GLBT Americans. We pulled the curtain back a bit and gave all Americans a deeper look inside the candidates’ core beliefs about the issues that affect our community. From repealing ’Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,’ supporting equal employment rights, providing full funding for the HIV/AIDS epidemic, to eliminating the Defense of Marriage Act, these candidates went on record and committed to fighting for equality in all sectors of our society. Unfortunately, we have more work to do. The overwhelming majority of the candidates do not support marriage equality. While we heard very strong commitments to civil unions and equality in federa! rights and benefits, their reasons for opposing equality in civil marriage tonight became even less clear. Over the course of the presidential campaign, we will continue to ask these questions and demand real answers from the candidates who appeared -- and from those who didn’t show up. The next president must be committed to not only doing what’s achievable, but also what’s right." The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. Great, now say it on the stump. "Slllgood andsome great, but now we need all the candidates --particularly thef~ontrunners -- to take a standfor us on the stump, inj~ont ofall audiwaces. " Matt Foreman, Executive Director, National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, Inc. WASHINGTON, DC__ The 2008 Democratic presidential candidates, except for Sens. Joe Biden and Christopher Dodd, addressed lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues at a forum aired Augkust 9th on the Logo cable channel. Statement by Matt Foreman, Executive Director National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, Inc. "It’s great that tonight the 2008 Democratic candidates reiterated their support for many issues critical to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans, like long-stalled protections from discrimination and hate violence, repealing ’Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,’ and rights for our families. In 2004, at a similar forum also organized by our friends at the Human Rights Campaign, Democratic presidential candidates said the same thing. ’Tkll good and some great, but now we need all the candidates, particularly the frontrunners, to take a stand for us on the stump, in front of all audiences. The Republican side hasn’t given up using gay people for political gain and most of the Republican candidates bash us everpvhere they go. But so far, the Democratic frontrunners rarely talk about us except at our events, such as tonight, or when asked a specific question, and even then, they tend to freeze up. "That’s got to stop. We challenge the Democratic frontrunners to step from behind the lavender curtain and consistently, unapologetically speak for our fundamental humanity everywhere they go. "On behalf of our national community, we want to thank Joe Solmonese, Melissa Etheridge, Jonathan Capehart and Margaret Carlson for pressing the candidates on key issues, including marriage equality." McPride Family Picnic in Chadick Park, McAl[ester -Saturday, September 22nd, 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. MCALESTER, OK(PR)__McPride is hosting the Third Annual Family Picnic, Saturday, September 22nd at Chadick Park, McMester, OK (6th and Delaware), from 11 a.m. until 5p.m. for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, allied (GLBTA) and interested people. The picnic wil! feature speakers, singers, games, booths of information and fun for all people - gay and straight alike. Come out for an afternoon of fun and heart warming experiences. (Alcoholic beverages are NOT allowed in Chadick Park.) Living up to our mission, we believe it is important to create an opportunity for GLBTA people to be visible and to share our pride in who we are, express the love and acceptance of our families, create an opportunity to meet and get to know us. You have an opportunity to be involved on many levels in this great event. Plan to attend, be a sponsoring organization/church, a supporter, an entertainer, or a volunteer. Help make this picnic a bigger success than last year’s! Table space is available for pro-GLBTA groups who would like to display and/or sell resources at the picnic. Space must be reserved in advance. Contact Paul at 918-329-7820 or www.mcpride.org more information. www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 11 WHERE THE DE OC TBC CANDidATES STAN An analysis of the candidates’ questionnaires on issues of concern to the GLBT community HUMA~q RIGHTS CAMPAIGN~ Federal Recognition of State-Level Same-Sex Unions 1 Supports recognition by the federal government of a state’s legal recognition of same-sex couples for purposes of fe.deral benefits and tax treatment ENDA Supports passage of a federal bill prohibiting job discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity Hate Crimes Supports passage of a federal bill that gives authority to the federal government to investigate and prosecute violent crimes motivated by bias against the victim because of their sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or disability Same-Sex IVlarriage Supports allowing civil marriage rights for same-sex couples Civil Unions Supports civil unions for same-sex couples Federal Benefits for Same-Sex Couples Supports extending federal benefits, rights, privileges and responsibilities to same-sex couples and their children provided the partnership meets certain federal standards of commitment and mutuality of interest Coverage Under the FIVILA Supports expansion of the Family and Medical Leave Act to cover domestic partners and their children Access to Survivor Benefits Supports paying survivor benefits to the same-sex partners of gay and lesbian people 2 the STAR 4- www.ozarksstar.com + ÷ ÷ ÷ ÷ ÷ + ÷ + € union b~¢~n c~-~e m~ a~qd eaa woma~ ~husb~.nd a~d ~e~ and the word !s~ase referson~to~a~~esex~,~ !s:a~sbar’,d ~a www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 13 August 1990 (17 years ago last month): The National Endowment for the Arts rejects an appeal from four artists who 10st funding due to the controversial content of their work. Who were the NEA Four? he "NEA Four" - a gay man, a bisexual man, a lesbian, and a heterosexual feminist - played a prominent role in the culture wars of the late 1980s and early 1990s, when they challenged the withdrawal of their funding from the National Endowment for the Arts and a decency clause imposed on grant recipients. Founded in 1965, the NEA was mandated to consider cultural diversity in its funding decisions. But by the mid-1980s, public support for the arts was threatened by an increasingly conservative political climate. In 1989, Republican la~vmakers and religious right groups launched a campaign against what they deemed morally objectionable art. Opponents ~vere particularly incensed that NEA funds had indirectly supported the work of Robert Mapplethorpe - renowned for his homoerotic and sadomasochistic images - and Andres Serrano, who photographed a crucifix in a jar of urine. During a time of moral panic about homosexuality and AIDS, conservative columnist Patrick Buchanan, among others, saw public funding of controversial art as a key battleground in a "culture war" against traditional values. At the behest of Rep. Dick Armey (R-Texas), more than 100 legislators signed a letter to NEA chair John Frohnmayer threatening to withhold federal support if the agency continued to fund "morally reprehensible trash." In the fall of 1989, Congress passed an amendment - introduced by Republican North Carolina Senator Jesse Helms - barring the use of federal money to support work that could be considered obscene, induding "depictions of sadomasochism, homoeroticism, the sexual exploitation of children, or individuals engaged in sex acts." Following a vociferous debate, Congress reauthorized the NEA in 1990, but added a provision that the agency must consider not only artistic merit, but also "general standams of decency and respect for the diverse beliefs of the American public." In June of that year, citing the new clause and "certain political realities," Frohnmayer rejected grants to four solo performance artists - Karen Finley, Holly Hughes, John Fleck, and Tim Miller - that had been unanimously recommended by a peer review panel. Finley, a heterosexual woman and the best known of the four, was renowned for smearing chocolate on her naked body to represent the degradation ofwomen. Hughes (a lesbian and former anti-porn feminist), Fleck (a gay man whose act included urinating onstage - but not, as accused, on a Bible), and Miller (a bisexual AIDS activist) all included explicit homosexual themes in their work. In addition to the NEA Four, conservatives also objected to federal funding for Marion Riggs’ film about the black gay experience, Tongues Untied (1989), the GLBT film company Frameline, and the work of Ron Athey, an HIV-positive artist who incorporated ritual body raodification and bloodletting into his performances. Civil libertarians and queer activists reacted with outrage to the encroachment on freedom of expression, but little support came from the straight left or the mainstream arts establishment, because, as Hughes explained, "anxieties about sexuality, the body, and race are not just anxieties of the right, they are anxieties also of downtown artists." After the NEA rejected their request for an appeal in August 1990, the four defunded artists - with the support of the American Civil Liberties Union and the Center for Constitutional Rights - filed a lawsuit in federal court demanding reinstatement of their grants and rescinding of the NEA’s decency provision, arguing that the guidelines were vague and unconstitutional. In 1992, federal district judge Wallace Tashima ruled in their favor; the government, he said, does not have "free rein to impose whatever content restrictions it chooses," since "the right of artists to challenge conventional wisdom and values is a cornerstone of artistic and academic freedom." Four years later, the Ninth Circuit Court upheld Tashima’s ruling. The NEA Four won a settlement reinstating their original grants and awarding legal costs, but the Clinton administration appealed the lower court decision regarding the decency clause. In June 1998, the Supreme Court ruled by a vote of 8 to 1 that Congress has wide latitude to set spending priorities. Wrote Justice Antonin Scalia, "Avant-garde artistes...remain entirely free to epater la bourgeoisie [shock the middle class]; they are merely deprived of the additional satisfaction of having the bourgeoisie taxed to pay for it." However, the sole dissenting justice, David Souter, said that the law carried "a significant power to chill artistic production and display." Mthough the original NEA implementation language stated that it was the government’s proper role "to help create and sustain not only a climate encouraging freedom of thought, imagination, and inquiry, but also the material conditions facilitating the release of this creative talent," the NEA Four case illustrated a shift in public support for the arts. In 1996, Congress cut the agency’s budget from a high of more than $170 million to less then $100 million, and the NEA ceased funding individual performance artists; legislators increased the budget in subsequent years, but never to its former level. Perhaps an even more profound outcome was the chilling effect it had on artists. "There’s enormous commercial pressure to be more mainstream," said Hughes. ’’A lot of the counter-cultural edge has really disappeared." For further reading: Bolton, Richard (editor). 1992. Culture W-ars: Documents from the Recent Controversies in the Arts (Ne~v Press). Brenson, Michael. 2001. Visionaries and Outcasts: The NEA, Congress, and the Place of the Visual Arts in America (New Press). Wallis, Brian, Marianne Weems, and Philip Yenawine (editors). 1999. Art Matters: How the Culture Wars Changed America (Ne~v York University Press). 14 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com EUREI’CA_ SPPdNGS, AR~55 antique dealers from 14 different states will converge on this Ozark town November 17 and 18 for the 19th Annual Eureka Springs Fall Antique Show and Sale. A special Wine & Cheese Preview will be held on Friday, November 16, 5:30-7 p.m. The popular yearly event will be held at the Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center, Hwy. 62 West. This is one of the ldckoffevents for the busy Thanksgiving and Christmas season. Attendees will pay $10 for this first chance at the antiques brought by dealers from around the country. This fee covers all days. Regular show hours on Saturday are 10 am to 6 pm and 10 am to 4 pm on Sunday. Admission price for this event is $ 2.50, good for both days. This well-attended show not only draws dealers from many states, it also brings customers fi’om as many as 23 different states. "By now, most antique lovers around this part of the country know that the third weekend in November and the third weekend in March are devoted to antiques here in Eureka Springs," according to Jane Baker. She and her husband, Dave, are show managers. "This is our 19th fall show and it looks to be better than ever," she added. For more information on the festival, contact Dave or Jane Baker at 479-253-7551 or bakerdj@cox.net. For details on Eureka Springs tourism, call 1-866-947-4387 or go online at www.eurekasprings.org. In Memoriam Michael Shane White 1971 - 2007 TULSA, OK __ Michael Shane White ofTulsa, born July 2, 1971 passed away August !3th, 2007 after a long fight with cancer. He is survived by his partner Jackie Hickey, father Chester and wife Barbara White of Sapulpa. His mother Roxanna Porter of Otdahoma City and sister Stephanie White of Choctaw, OK. Shane enjoyed his friends, family, traveling and tending the garden he and Jackie grew. He especially loved early morning walks in the garden when the roses and hibiscus were in bloom. Shane will be truly missed by his loving family and friends. 8 parts lemon (Absolute is good) 1 teaspoon Grand 1 teaspoon fresh lime Lemon twist Combine liquid ingredients in a cocktail shaker with cracked ice and shake well. Strain into a chilled co£ktail glass and garnish on fwist. ~ ~ www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 15 desired ~ fresh ~pper, ring of raw mp. martini and head chef deveined-can best pper )er powder immediatel4 over medium heat. ice, pepper, paprika, shrimp parsley, rice-bohemio-and a green can in mexican ice jalapeno pep- , Puerto Vallarta see Donald Pile and Ray Williams you besides seein hal ~ndmarks. ay Landmarks? Below is a list ofsome of our favorites: the Greenwich Village in New York was located a 53 Christopher Street. On from an overdose HARVEY M] June she was buried and a wake byher gay" fans at the Stonewall Inn in New York. In the lr~ of2~ JMe the police decided to raid the StonewaJl. ~he tl ri0ts were a series o£violent conflicts between the New ~ anc ps of gays rd mt began during the early , : 28~ :l laste~t for ;evera~ da ~’s. AlsD called t~e [I rStonewalt, the clash was a watershed , as gay people had never large numbers to forcibly resist police. was vac.oait and closed for most of the in the early have set off mc earlier and D, ile’w Ztub was formed. ¯ Out of the ashes, Francisco. Be~bre mid dancing dwarves, br pushing [he envelope. ht ~n gay pride ~vhen it transparent windows on street side.. in the heart of the Castor district St. in New York City*. %e world s first gay and lesbian bookshop, it has been see of Oz with ; red velvet sears and ueen ~travaganzas e. in New York is named after Milk, San Francisco but the seeds were in place much" (founded by Phillis Lyon )KSTO~, 15 Christopher this shop opene COMMUNI~ CHURCH, 8714 Santa Mon- its ~oors fo 24 countries. church in the world. Founded giving ¯ without undermining of a store that Street, a block of the chain bookstores, is: www.oscarwiI- 429 Castro St, in San Francisco (photo ........................Continued n~t page 922, the Castro Theatre is San Francisco’s www.ozarksstar.com prawns served with a mango whittle white dipping sauce, Cherty Cola Caribbean BBQ Ribs, Chicken Satan; Cordon Bleu and a grilled Cornish hen with a orange tequila mad brandy sauce. They also serve t}esh steamed mussels euro style with whittle wine and chicken broth to name a few. ~q~eir grilled red snapper with Spa~> ish rice is to die for. N~ev even serve the best Itali~ meatloaf with twice baked potato this side ofNew York Cib" and Cajun friend chicken, baked ziti pasta and the best veggie burgers in the u,fiverse made ~r0m scratch fbr you vegetarian lovers. Care Bohemio has been written up i~ the New YorkTimes Sunday travel section. It is quite the gay travelers ~nner stop when in Puerto Valtarta. Reservations are re£0mmended on high ~eason Nov-April as they only have 17 tables. You can email as well lbr reservations at ca_febohemio@hotmail, corn or call when in town at 322-t34-2436. Chris and Sol hope to open a Care Bohemio in the near future in fabulous Palm Springs CA, Both are wonderful guys and good friends of ours. We wish them GRF~aiT SUCCESS! by Donald Pile & Ray Williams Featuring Cuisine From Coast to Coast HEMIO, Puerto Val~arta, Mexdco 127 Rodolfb Gomez is located in the roman- ?uerto Vallarta. Mexico, one block from the Dia de los leach axed located next to the San Marino Hotel. It’s locagay bars are located. former owners of the md B in San Francisco 3ened Care Bohemio 5 several years and have San Francisco. Sol is LOS has created a fabulous inmrnational menu with a a~ veiT aflbrdable prices. "Ihey have a popular , hours daily from 5-7 and 11-midnight with 3ecials where drinks are 2 for 1 all N. Schrader Boulevard in Los _Angeles. ~Ihe first gay community center in the country began in 197t, It is the largest gay C0mmunivy center in the United States. iuesoays are tini "thesdays where martinis ¯ long. Wednesdays are also popular with their 2 is served al fresco outdoor dining under a large mango tables complete MASSACHUSETTS SUPreME COURZ John Adams Court[, house, One Pemberton Square in B0S{0n. ~& the debate over marriage continues today, rhh Supreme Judici~ Court of Massachusetts took a big Step by becoming the first State to legalize same-sex marriage in May of 2004. landmar~ and it is a marvelous your bohemian experience is a memorable $10. American dollars - yes you heard Always remember to have fun when traveling, meet new people and ght! and all meals include at no extra cost homemade chips talk to everyone! salsa- a cup of their famous soup of the day and fresh bread. not frozen and all desserts are made on the no pre-mixes 85% of their clients are repeat customers. Some of their dishes include Shrimp Coco Mango, jumbo coconut www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 19 I~orbel, one ofthe Russian River’s top wineries, offers tours oftheproperty and also has a superb gourmet deli that’s perfectforpicking up picnic supplies and light lunches. (Photo by Andrew Collins) chocolates. And Wayne Skata Jewelry & Antiques carries some of the most intriguing decorative items and household gifts around. Nestled in the redwood-shaded western reaches of Sonoma County, the Russian River Valley is one of Northern California’s most relaxing and gay-friendly weekend getaways. Although the area is occasionally ravaged by wintertime floods, it offers cool and typically sunny weather much of the year, especially in summer. The area comprises the towns of Guerneville, Forestville, Monte Rio, and - where the river empties into the Pacific - Jenner. Gay folks have been weekending here for more than three decades, and the area has always been a terrific spot for camping, canoeing, hiking, and simply relaxing amid peaceful and picturesque surroundings. More recently, the eastern reaches of the area have blossomed into a hub of superb wineries. Although a steady influx of well-heeled San Francisco professionals has given the Russian River a slightly more polished sensibility in recent years, Guerneville and its neighboring communities still look and feel unpretentious - even a bit raffish - compared with such swanky Wine Country towns as Healdsburg and Rutherford. This is a spot where flannel shirts and jeans are 20 the STAR as much in vogue as designer wear. Life here moves at a snail’s pace, and that’s how most locals prefer it. The river defines not only the community’s personality but also the region’s geography. It’s a threat, to be sure, but it’s also the reason devotees love the area. Perhaps the leading activities in summer are floating for several miles down the river on inner tubes and embarking on one ofthe popular canoe expeditions offered by Burke’s Canoes. For a spectacular hike, drive a few miles north of town to 800-acre Armstrong \Voods, home to some of the tallest and oldest trees in northern California. Ifyou’re hit with a rainy day, fear not: Downtown Guerneville holds an increasingly intriguing selection of shops. Possibilities include the Five & Dime, with its old-fashioned candy section and offbeat gifts; Stone’s River Feed, a whimsically stocked pet-supplies store; River Reader, a quirky bookshop with a GLBT section; and Kings & Q~eens, which stocks cool vintage threads. At Hemp & Chocolat, you can pick up - you guessed it - hemp clothing and accessories, along with gorgeous handmade Wine-tasting is a top pastime in these parts, and a great way to begin your explorations is by consulting with David DeVries and John Haggard, two knowledgeable and friendly experts on local wine who operate Sophie’s Cellars, a wonderful little wine and cheese shop in Monte Rio. These guys can recommend and make introductions for you at several high-quality, lesser-known vineyards, some that aren’t otherwise open to the public. If you’re out exploring on your own, the best winery-hopping plan is to drive east of Guerneville on River Road. Just outside of town, stop at Korbel Champagne Cellars, which is headquartered in a century-old, creeper-covered brick building. The facility’s Korbel Dell and Microbrewery is a delightful spot to grab lunch - it serves superb panini sandwiches (try the one with salami, Brie, tapenade, roasted peppers, and greens), prepared salads, and fresh-baked sweets, and there’s seating on a !ovely tree-shaded deck. Continue along River Road and make a left onto Westside Road, following this toward Healdsburg. Over the next several miles, you’ll encounter one exceptional winery after another - best bets include Gary Farrell, Porter Creek (amazing pinot noirs), Davis Bynum, Hop Kiln, and Roshambo. Alternatively, explore the wine-growing region south of the river. Fine vineyards in the towns of Forestville, Graton, and Windsor include Joseph Swan, La Crema, DeLoach, Topolos, and Hanna. Many businesses and accommodations in the area distribute free "Russian River Wine Road" brochures and maps, which can help you plot your oenophilic journey - or log on to www.wineroad. com to see the maps there. Where there’s great wine, there’s great food, and Guerneville has gradually improved as a culinary destination in recent years. Charizma Wine Lounge and Dell is a relatively new spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner, wine-tasting, and live jazz some nights. Sophisticated but well-priced options include a baked Petrole sole with mango-jasmine rice, baby beans, and blue mussels, and the smoked-ham and provolone sandwich with .............Continued next page www.ozarksstar.com peach-and-onion barbecue sauce. Cape Fear cafe is another very good lunch source - it’s in a small complex ofhistoric buildings a scenic 15- minute drive south of Guerneville. When it’s a good old-fashioned burger you’re after, drop by gay-owned Bob N’ Boy in downto~vn Guerneville. Chase down your burgers, hot dogs, and fries with Red Hook beer. Grab breakfast, lunch, or an afternoon espresso snack at the Coffee Bazaar, just offthe main drag along Armstrong Woods Road. The sunny little cafe with free Wi-Fi has wonderfully hearty soups and sand~viches, egg dishes, cakes, cookies, and similarly enticing treats. In Forestville, you’ll find a couple ofthe region’s best restaurants, including Mosaic Restaurant and Wine Lounge, which serves first-rate contemporary American fare, and the famed Farmhouse Inn, Restaurant, and Spa, which has garnered all kinds ofawards and kudos for its innovative cuisine. A typically delicious dish here is the plate ofseared pork medallions with caramelized onions, black Mission figs, and parmesan polenta. With dinner out ofthe way, don’t overlook Guerneville’s gay nightlife. Some ofthe restaurants in these parts have lounges or bars popular with the GLBT crowd, and then there are a couple ofself-standing bars. One spot that’s friendly with men and women, old and young, is the Rainbow Cattle Company, a former gambling hall, which draws a genial, outgoing bunch, many ofwhom tumble in after 11 for a nightcap... or two...or seven. Across the street is Club Yamagata, a space that’s gone through a few incarnations over the years and was known until recently as Liquid Sky. It opened in June 2007 as a hip, mixed gay/straight lounge serving everything from fancy sake-infused cocktails to green teas, smoothies, and appetizers. The Asian-themed spot offers a departure from Guerneville’s somewhat predictable scene. Another good bet is the Triple R Bar at the Russian River Resort, xvhich is home to a pool bar, video lounge, and piano cabaret. The live entertainment and several chatty bartenders are sure to keep everybody’s spirits up. The Russian River has a number ofgay-popular accommodations, the most romantic being the posh yet unpretentious Applewood Inn and Restaurant, which is a few minutes’ drive south ofdowntown Guerneville. Half of the elegant rooms are in the main 1922 Mission Revival house; the others are in a newer building done in the same style. All are loaded with antiques and have European down comforters, and many have hot tubs and fireplaces. Applewood also contains the best restaurant in the area, serving such stellar Mediterranean-influenced victuals as braised rabbit with potato gnocchi, bacon, and English peas. Recently purchased by helpful and enthusiastic couple Dana Murphy and Brian Siewert, the former Ridenhour Inn received a top-tobottom makeover in 2006 and has emerged as the dapper Sonoma Orchid. This sunny yellow farmhouse set high on a bluffalong River Road (very near the Westside Road wineries) has a hot tub in back, six guest rooms in the main house, and four more contemporary and private units in a separate cottage (some of these have fireplaces). Welcoming ofkids as well as pets, the Sonoma Orchid is nonetheless a peaceful, romantic hideaway- a terrific addition to the Russian River’s gay-friendly lodging landscape. Other gay-popular accommodations ofnote include the long-running Russian River Resort (aka the Triple R), a highly social spot with clean and comfy motel-style rooms that received a top-notch makeover in 2006. A rustic but neatly maintained compound of 1920s cottages, the pet-friendy Fern Grove is another highly recommended establishment - many of the knotty-pine units have fireplaces. You don’t often find a predominantly gay resort owned by a straight couple, bui the reasonably priced, beautifully situated Highlands Resort is just that. Friendly innkeepers Ken and Lynette, who know all there is to know about the region, operate this rambling 3-acre spread tucked beneath the boughs ofto~vering redwood trees. Accommodations are set in a series ofsecluded, nicely appointed cabins, many of them with fireplaces, refrigerators, and coffeemakers. It’s a peacefu! spot (no TVs or phones in the rooms), and nudity is permitted around the pool and hot tub. When you’re truly looking to get away from it all, this compound, just a five-minute walk up the hill from downtown Guerneville, makes the perfect escape. www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 21 Campaign Memo Lesbian Notions, at the HRC/Logo Democratic candidates’fot~m. After watching the Human Rights Campaign/ Logo presidential forum, I decided a memo to the LGBT handlers, counselors, and advisers to the candidates was in order. Memo to LGBT Candidate Advisers: Thanks for making sure your candidate was at the forum, but I think some of them needed a bit more prep time. I took the liberty of perusing the forum transcripts, and, honestly, each of the candidates needs help with his or her language. In the approximately 15 minutes each candidate had on screen, the actual use of the words lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender was at a minimum. Barack Obama said "LGBT" five times, "gays and lesbians" three, added "transgender" once, and said "gay" twice in the same sentence - "they’ve got gay friends, they’ve got gay family members." John Edwards said "lesbian and gay couples" three times, Dennis Kucinich said "gay" once, Bill Richardson said "gay and lesbian" four times, and Hi!lary Clinton said "gay" and "LGBT" one time each. I have to hand it to Mike Gravel though. He referred to "the gays" twice, but used the word "gay" 10 times! It might be old-fashioned of me, but I gauge a candidate’s comfort with our community with her or his ability to actually say the words. It’s one of my litmus tests. You need to prep your candidates better - when they’re addressing an audience filled with lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender people, they need to say the words. In essence, they need to speak directly to us - not use euphemisms, with which the evening’s forum was rife. A few specific, well-placed references to us would have worked wonders for Obama when he spoke somewhat aw~vardly about civil unions. He said, "I am a strong supporter of not a weak version of civil unions, but of a strong version, in which the rights that are conferred at the federal level to persons of- you know, who are part of the same-sex union are compatible." 22 the STAR Now wouldn’t it have been better if the "Rock Star" candidate - as he was referred to at the forum - said the following? "I am a strong supporter of civil unions where all the federal rights, privileges, and responsibilities are conveyed to lesbian and gay couples." Short, sweet, and to the point. Edwards needs to know that it’s OK to say "lesbian and gay youth" or "LGBT youth." It doesn’t mean you’re recruiting for our side. He was eloquent when speaking about the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Community Center and the work it does for our homeless youth, but a few references to the specific population he was talking about would have served him well. He pondered "All she needs to do is say "LGBT" or "le.sbian and gay" a tew more times, and more of us will be eating out of her hand, thanking her for the crumbs while she consumes the cake." that "without that place [the LA Center], where would these - where would these young people go?" How much stronger, how much more emotional would it have been if he said, "Where would our LGBT youth go?" Edwards also needs a little help saying "transgender" and "transition." In answering a question regarding Susan Stanton, the transgender city manager of Largo, Fla., who lost her job after transitioning, Edwards couldn’t say "transgender." He talked about "going through what they’re going through." When referring back to the question during his closing remarks, he spoke of Stanton’s firing as a case of discrimination based on sexual orientation - wrong! She was fired because of gender identity. All I can say about Kucinich is that if he really wants to be taken seriously, he’s got to tone down the love! Sure, he’s great on our issues, supports same-sex marriage and everything else we want. He may be "evolved," as the forum’s emcee, Margaret Carlson, suggested, but honestly he sounded like a flake - not someone who is presidential. Didn’t anyone prep Richardson at all? We appreciate his record - his calling a special session just to get a domestic-partner bill passed (which didn’t happen). But to not understand a simple question on whether or not being gay is a choice is just politically stupid. His take on "don’t ask, don’t tell," however, was good. "When you have an America that is asking men and women to fight and die, the last thing you need to do is give them a lecture on sexual orientation." Right you are. And then there was Clinton - as slick and smooth as ever. Her answer about opposing same-sex marriage was brilliant: "Well, I prefer to think of it as being very positive about civil unions." She’s taken a cue from Bill - triangulate, triangulate, triangulate. She’s put her own spin on the issue of civil unions, leaving anyone who disagrees with her on it looking like the odd person out. All she needs to do is say "LGBT" or "lesbian and gay" a fe,v more times, and more of us will be eating out of her hand, thanking her for the crumbs while she consumes the cake. Then there’s Gravel. Too bad he’s not electable. He had the LGBT rhetoric down, but it was a little strange when he kept referring to "the gays" who support him - the gays in New York, the gays in San Francisco, the gays in Alaska. I found his honesty about the political scene refreshing and wish he hadn’t left elected office some 25 years ago. We need him in the Senate now more than ever. So there you have it. There may not be another national forum on LGBT issues in the 2008 election, but there will be plenty of opportunities to get your candidates talking the talk so that one of them can walk the walk to the Capitol on January 20, 2009. www.ozarksstar.corn BOB LEMON INTERVIEW CONT. BOB: I think it’s just that they were brought up that way, and I think that young people today are much less anti-gay than people of my generation. Much of the hate was fueled by tactics such as those used by Karl Rove and the Bush administration, and by anti-gay state questions on ballots during the 2004 elections that were designed to elect conservatives. People like me, straight but not narrow, need to support organizations such as Cimarron Alliance, P-Flag and other groups. This are more straight people involved now. That’s a good trend and I love it. I say this to straight people who believe in democracy, equality and ful! rights for the gay community, come out of your closets! They need to proudly and publicly show themselves as supporters. Someday we will see a mass shift of public opinion. VICTOR: What about the upcoming Oklahoma County Commissioner Race for District One? BOB: I think we need to support Willa Johnson September 11, I believe she would fulfill that office in the Roth tradition. When he held that office, Jim Roth did many wonderful things for Oklahoma County and the GLBT community. He’s a fine public servant, and I’ll be disappointed ifI don’t see him be a governor or president someday. VICTOR: I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. Overall are you optimistic about 2008? BOB: Very optimistic. If our opponents attempt to put wedge issues on the ballot such as gay marriage or other gay rights issues to further their causes I don’t think it will work, or at least not as well, because people are becoming more reasonable and fair minded. My hat is off to the Jim Roths and Al McAffreys out there, because they are paving the way for a better future. Fair minded people, along with the gay community need to keep up their efforts helping good candidates and encouraging good voters. VICTOR: Well, thanks for sharing with us, and we can’t thank you enough for all you’ve done and all that we know you’ll do. It will always inspire our community to do better. BOOM BOOM ROOM MAY BE DOOMED. LAGUNA BEACH, CA In less than three weeks, venerable Laguna Beach, Calif., gay club the Boom Boom Room will shut its doors forever unless a buyer comes to its rescue. The property’s ownm; Steven Udvar-Hazy, and the operators of the Boom Boom Room and the adjoining Coast Inn were apparently unable to reach an agreement to keep the bar, restaurant and hotel open beyond the coming Labor Day weekend, according to an open letter from preservation group Save the Boom! Udvar-Hazy wants to demolish the property to make way for a larger hotel. Save the Boom! is campaigning to find a buyer who will keep the 60-year-old establishment afloat. The group began its campaign in 2006, gathering 6,000 signatures in three months to preserve the gay institution. A nearby Laguna gay landmark, the Woody’s on the Beach restaurant, closed in February. (The Advocate) www.ozarksstar.com Jim Roth receives Hero ofHope _Award from the Cathedral of Hope UCC By Victor Gorin OKLAHOMA CITY, OK __ Oklahoma Corperation Commisioner Jim Roth received the 2007 Hero of Hope Award from Oklahoma City’s Cathedral of Hope UCC Church, an award given for commitment, hardwork and dedication towards a better future for the GLBT community. As the Reverend Scott Jones put it, "Jim received the award because in his very person he embodies the breaking of barriers and creating new possibilities for the future." He was elected in 2002 as an openl~ gay ,nan to the office of Oklahoma County Commissioner District 1, and then reelected in 2006, recognized for outstanding performance in that position. He left that seat this year, appointed by Governor Brad Henry to fill a vacated position on the Oklahoma Corporation Commission. Oommuni y Peop ÷ iving with V!A DS Our House, Too offers a variety of activities for people who are HIV+ and or living with A!DS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HtV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves, We invite anyone:who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail harrismmjr@yahoo,com. The STAR 23 ntrospection is defined as an examination of one’s own feelings and thoughts according to the Merriam Webster Dictionary. Introspection can lead you to better understand yourself and ultimately to achieve greater happiness. This greater happiness can help you follow the yellow brick road to better health. I will present dozens of questions for you to contemplate. Get ready to challenge yourself to a smorgasbord of self-discovery. For best results, I recommend you answer honestly Pinocchio. What is the angriest moment you have ever experienced? Are you more of a voyeur or an exhibitionist? What person do you trust the most? When do you feel most relaxed? Whit whom have you had the best sex? What has been your proudest moment? What is your greatest fear? What have you always wanted to do but haven’t? Where did you experience your greatest happiness? When did you last lie? What are your pet peeves? Who are you most intimidated by? Have you ever considered suicide? What part of your body would you like to replace? When did you first feel sexual? Whom have you most wanted to hurt? Have you ever driven your car naked? Who would you want as your guardian angel? Whom do you secretly admire? What was the happiest year of your life? What bad habit do you enjoy the most? What is the largest amount of money you have found? When was the last time you dreamed you were falling? What is the most expensive car you have driven? What movie character do you most resemble? Would you like to live in the future or the past? Have you ever watched someone die in person? What photograph of you is most revealing? Who is most jealous of you? What secret will you take to your grave? What is the longest span you’ve gone without sex? How do you want to die? Who has influenced you the most? What is your earliest childhood memory? \re’hen did you last cry during a movie? These questions should be .just the beginning. Sit down and make a bigger list if you’d like. Knowledge is power. The more you know about yourself, the better equipped you’ll be to go out and face the world. Introspection is just like a massage or a relaxing spell in the hot tub. You’ll feel like a million bucks after this exercise. It is free and you have not a dime to lose. Question #1 is waiting for you in the lobby. Good luck! This column is brought to you by that guy Ron Blake who has been known to urinate on his shirt and then wrap it around his head to stay coo! when he is out of water and stranded in the desert. Learn more about the little bugger at www.goblakefitness.com. 26 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com KELLY &JACQ ELINE CARTER SCOTT TWO LIVES UNITED MIDWEST CITY, OK __ Kelly and Jacqueline Carter Scott exchanged vows at their Holy Union held on August 11, 2007 at a friend’s home in Midwest City. "l-here were 82 people in attendance with their friends and family. The wedding was conducted by the Reverend Toby Jenkins with Ekklesia Church ofTulsa, followed by feasting, fellowship and fun dancing under the stars with DJ Victorola. Xhey will reside in Oklahoma City. Jacqueline is an RN working with Integris Hospital, and Kelly is the Director ofAdministration for the Center for Positive Change, an OKC mental health facility. STONE\VALL ENDORSES WILLA JOHNSON FOR DISTRICT 1. OKLAHOMA CITY, OK P/R__ The executive committee of Oklahoma Stonewall Democrats voted unanimously on Friday August 17th, to endorie Willa Johnson, the Democratic Party nominee for Oklahoma County Commissioner, District 1. With the endorsement, Stonewall also appropriated $500 for a donation to her campaign fund. "Willa has been a steadfast supporter of human rights and ofLGBT issues throughout her years on the Oklahoma City Council, and has pledged to continue that support if elected to the county level," said Steve VanHook, male co-chair of Oklahoma Stonewall. "We urge the entire LGBT community of Oklahoma County to support Willa with donations and volunteer work during this very short campaign, regardless of party affiliation. She will be facing a Republican opponent who already has an established record of homophobia and bigotry toward the LGBT community. We owe it to ourselves to help Willa’s campaign as much as possible," VanHook said. Oklahoma Stonewall is one of over 90 chapters and affiliated dubs of National Stonewall Democrats, and is a recognized federation within the Oklahoma Democratic Party. Quotable Quotes A study by South African sdentists said Wednesday there was no evidence that foods such as garlic and beetroot were a substitute for AIDS medicine, disputing claims by the country’s health minister. An Idaho inmate who castrated herselfwith a disposable razor blade after prison officials refused to treat her for gender identity disorder should have female hormone therapy paid for by the state, a federal judge said. Dr. Robert G. Crummie, a volunteer "Doctor of the Day" in Raleigh, is in trouble for more than urging electric shock therapy for gay people. Cimarron A!liance Foundation Awarded Capacity Building Grant P/R August 22, 2007 OKI.__AHOMA CITY, OK __ The Oklahoma City Community Foundation (OCCF) has awarded a grant to the Cimarron Alliance Foundation (CAF) to support the hiring of a consultant to create a fundraising and financial development plan. The grant presentation is scheduled 10:00 am this Saturday August 25th, 2007 prior to a financial development board retreat funded by this generous grant. Gayle Farley, OCCF Program Coordinator will present the grant to CAF chair, Richard Ogden, and the CAF Board of Directors. The Oklahoma City Community Foundation, the metropolitan area’s non-profit public charity, was founded in 1969 to work with individuals to meet the charitable needs of the community through development and administration of permanent endowment funds for non-profit organizations and other charities. Through its Community Program Grants, the OCCF funds, initiates and leads programs that benefit the community in the area of arts, education, health and human services, beautification and community development. The Cimarron Alliance Foundation, an Oklahoma non-profit educational foundation, was created in 1997 to support equality toward "A Fair and Just Oklahoma’. Cimarron has heightened its fundraising efforts to support a series of educational and charitable programs aimed at promoting fairness and impartiality to all people. The CAF Mission : "To support educational efforts that increase personal self-esteem, promote public enlightenment and advanced equality for LGBT Oklahomans". For further information about these organizations visit: http://www.occf.org or http://www.cimarronalliance.org www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 27 Mars in Gemini is loosening lips, and, squaring Uranus, he will have us all blurting out things we’ll wish we hadn’t! Keep your ears open and your mouth shut - or otherwise occupied. Venus is in Leo, so taking pride in taste and discretion can save you lots of trouble. ARIES (March 20 -April 19): To avoid blurting out secrets and betraying trust, let it all be about you! Hold the spotlight and dazzle your friends with your charm and playfulness. If you do get time alone, some creative writing and journaling can offer surprising insights. TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): Resisting the impulse to spend can be hard, but stay within a budget. Friends will egg you on to some fabulous purchase that you’ll regret. What would Mother say? In this case, she’d probably be right. GEMINI (May 21 - June 20): Your mouth is even more dangerous than usual. Whether you want it or not, you have the ear of bosses and authorities. Running your ideas by a sister first will help you make them more presentable. SAG~TTARIUS (November 22 - December 20): Arguments, especially at home, are likely to go badly for you. Artistic and literary diversions will help keep you out of trouble. Those from the lands of your family background can provide surprising insights. CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19): Showing off and learning new sexual techniques can prove very educational for all involved. But are you communicating anything in your love-making besides physical prowess? Take time out to talk about real intimacy, not just erotic gymnastics. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): What you value in your relationships cannot be sufficiently expressed with money and gifts. Efforts to do so now will just prove awkward and expensive. A gesture of affection - a hug, a kiss, or a kind word - is still best. PISCES (February 19 - March 19): You’re full of surprises even you don’t know about. Conversations with your family can expose talents that will prove helpful at work. Be sure to discuss family medical history. What you learn now could save you lots of grief. CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Occupy your mind to keep your mouth out of trouble. Visit museums and art-house films, and keep the discussion impersonal, discussing aesthetics instead of mutual acquaintances. Whatever you say will be heard far and wide! LEO (July 23 - August 22): Talking about sex could actually keep you out of trouble, as then you won’t be gossiping about friends. Even better than discussing sex, continue your research on different techniques and styles~ You’ll have plenty of opportunity! VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Your partner will quickly tire of your complaints about work, and your workplace is no place to kvetch about your love life! Hiding out could be your best bet, even with your partner exploring nonverbal communication. LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): You can enjoy great popularity now, either for your savage wit or for your valuable community service. The latter will also offer you surprising inspirations. SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): OK, you’re hot; we all know you’re hot; and worst of all, you know you’re hot. Now relax and try to have fun without needing to prove anything. You can’t play anyone else’s instrument while you’re tooting your own horn. 28 the STAR MCC METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES Rev Steve 3". Uric Spirit of Christ MCC 2902 E 20th Street Joplin, MO 64804 417-529-8480 Worship Saturdays at 10:00 AM Community Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM MCC of the Living Spring 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays at 6:00 PM Have a God filled and BleSSed Day! ~wvw.ozarksstar.com Arkansas, Bentonville/Rogers (479) NWA GLBT Ctr .... www.nwaglbtcc.org.........888-391-9222 Barnes & Noble Bks - - 261 N. 46th St., Rogers- - - -479-636-2002 Arkansas, Eureka Springs (479) Diversity Pride Events www.diversitypride.com A Byrd’s Eye View..... 36 N. Main - - 479-253-0200 Caribe Restaurante.... 309 W VanBuren....... 479-253-8102 Henri’s ....... 19 1/2 Spring St-- -479-253-5795 Lumberyard Bar&Grill--- 105 E VanBuren....... 479-253-0400 MCC Living Spring - 17 Elk Street- Service 6PM- - -479-253-9337 Swiss Holiday Resort- Hwy 62 at Hwy 23 So.- .... 888-582-8464 Tiki Torch- 75 S. Main Street. - -479-253-2305 Tradewinds Lodge - 141 W. VanBuren 800-242-1615 Arkansas, Fayetteville (479) Condom Sense 418 W. Dickson...... -479-444-6228 Curry’s Video - - - 612 N. College Ave.......... -479-521-0009 Flames Bar - - - 40 E. Center- - - - 479-251-1922 Passages ......930 N. College Ave- -479-442-5845 Tangerine Club - -21 N. Block Ave............. 479-587-9512 Arkansas, Fort Smith (479) Kinkeads.......1004 1/2 Garrison Ave.- ...... 479-782-6969 Klub XLR8 ......1022 Dodson Ave...........479-782-9578 Arkansas, Hot Springs (501) Jesters Lounge .... 1010 E. Grand Ave ........501-624-5455 Arkansas, Little Rock (501) Back Street ....1021 Jessie Rd- -501-6642744 Diamond State Rodeo Assoc.- - www.dsra.org Discovery..... 1021 Jessie Rd- -501-666-6900 Sidetracks--- 415 Main St--North L.R.- ........ 501-244-0444 The Factory ...... 412 Louisiana St. 501-372-3070 Club U.B.U. - ..... 824 W Capitol Ave 501-375-8580 Kansas, Junction City (785) Xcalibur Club...... 384 GrantAve. 785-762-2050 Kansas, Pittsburg (620) PSU-QSA.- - 1701 S. Broadway- ..............620-231-0938 River of Life Church.- - 1709 N. Walnut, Service 11AM Kansas, Wichita (316) Our Fantasy/South40..... 3201 S. Hillside......316-682-5494 Club Glacier- ........ 2828 E. 31st South......316-612-9331 Missouri, Ava (417) Catus Canyon Campground ................. 417-683-9199 Missouri, Joplin (417) Fantasy- 2331 E 7th St- ....... -417-626-7275 MCC Spirit of Christ- - -2902 E 20th, - .......Sat Service-9:30AM Joplin Gay/Lesbian Cntr- PO Box 4383, zip 64803- -417-622-7821 Missouri, Kansas City (816) 40th Street Inn....www.40thstreetinn.com.......816-561-7575 Concourse Park B&B - - 300 Benton BIvd 816-231-1196 Hydes KC Gym & Guest Hs - www.hydeskc.com - - 816-56t-t010 Missie B’s....805 W. 39th St. -816-561-0625 Missouri, Springfield (417) The Edge..... 424 Boonville Ave............. 417-831-4700 GLO Comm. Ctr-- -518 E. Commericat. 417-869-3978 JR’s Nightclub.... 504 E. Commerical......... 417-831-9001 Martha’s Vineyard- - - 219 W Olive -4!7-864-4572 Ronisuz Place....821 College- 417-864-0036 Oklahoma, Enid (580) Hastings Books....104 Sunset - - 580-242-6838 Oklahoma, Lawton (580) Ingrids Bookstore..... 1124 NW Cache Rd......580-353-1488 Oklahoma, I~,~cAlester (918) McPride.... POBox 1515, - .... McAlester, OK 74502 Oklahoma, Oklahoma City (405) American Crossroads B&B - POBox 270642...... 405-495-1111 Blue Dog Liquor- ......4015 N. Penn -405-606-7000 Boom Room........ 2807 NW 36th St- -405-601-7200 Border’s Books...... 3209 NW Expressway..... 405-848-2667 CD Warehouse...... 4001 N. Penn 405-525-7766 Christie’s Toy Box.....3126 N. May Ave ....... 405-946-4438 Church of Open Arms......3131 N. Penn...... 405-525-9555 Copa -2200 NW 39th Exp........405-525-0730 Eastern Ave Video- - -1105 S Eastern Ave....... -405-6726459 Finishline ....... 2200 NW 39th Expwy....... -405-525-9200 First Amendment Tatoo Shop- - - 2135 NW 39th - - -405-604-391! Gushers Restaurant.....2200 NW 39Exp ...... 405-525-0730 Habana Inn ........2200 NW 39th Exp 405-528-2221 Herland Sisters Resources.... 2312 NW 39th St--405-521-9696 Hi-Lo Club 1221 NW 50th 405-843-1722 Jungle Reds .......2200 NW Expwy- 405-524-5733 Ledo.............2200 NW Expw~j- 405-525-0730 Naughty But Nice .... 3121 SW 29th St ........405-681-5044 Partners......... 2805 NW 36th St ..........405-942-2199 Red Rock North- - - 2240 NW39th St. 405-525-5165 Phoenix Rising .... 2120 NW 39th St...........405-601-3711 The Park- 2125 NW 39th St -405-528-4690 The Patio........ 3201 N. May Ave 405-917-1663 Tramps............2201 NW 39th -405-521-9888 Ziggy’s 4005 N. Penn 405-521-9999 Oklahoma, Tulsa (918) Bamboo Lounge....7204 E. Pine.....918-836-8700 Border’s Book Store- - - 2740 E. 21st 918-712-9955 Border’s Book Store - - - 8015 S. Yale - - 918-494-2665 Circle Cinema...... 10 S. Lewis............. 918-592-3456 Club 209 ....... 209 N. Boulder .... 918-584-9944 Club Majestic....... 124 N. Boston 918-584-9494 Club Maverick..... 822 S. Sheridan -918-835-3301 Cosmo Deli & Bar- - 6746 S. Memorial 918-459-0497 Dreamland Bks .... 8807 E. Admiral PI -918-834-1051 Equality Center ..... 621 E. 4th Street. .918-743-4297 Hideaway Cocktail Lounge- - - 11730 E. 11th......918-437-0449 HOPE Clinic....... 3540 E. 31st- 918-749-8378 Midtown- 319 E. 3rd- - - 918-584-3112 Openarms Youth Projt - - - 2015 S. Lakewood.....918-838-7104 Our House, Too ....203 N Nogales Ave .918-585-9552 Renegades. 1649 S. Main 918-585-3405 Sappho’s 816 S. Sheridan Rd........ 918-836-8992 Tulsa CARES.... 3507 E. Admiral P!- 918-834-4194 Tulsa Central Library ...... 400 Civic Center---- 918-596-7977 Tulsa Eagle.....1338 E. 3rd....918-592-1188 TNT’s 2114 S. Memorial- 918-660-0856 Yellow-Brick-Rd....... 2630 E. 15th.......... 918-293-0304 Keller Will~ams Realty Ch~ck Breckenridge Whether buying or selling I’ll work hard for you. ~Arkansas GLBT Community Center "Li"nki"ng Togethe~"as One" For more information: 888-391-9222 WWW.NWAGLBTCC.ORG 3O the STAR www.ozarksstar.com www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 31 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2007] The Star Magazine, September 1, 2007; Volume 4, Issue 9 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource September 01, 2007 Subject The topic of the resource Politics, education, and social conversation over LGBTQ+ topics Description An account of the resource The Star Magazine’s first issue began February of 2005. Before this issue was Ozarks Pride (2004) and The Ozark Star (2004). Follows is The Metro Star (2008). This magazine discusses topics of AIDs, education, politics, local and national civil rights of the LGBT community, and advice for relationships and places to visit. This collection is PDF searchable. Physical copies are also available to be seen at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center with permission. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Star Media, Ltd Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Star Media, Ltd Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Charles (Chaz) Ward Victor Gorin Greg Steele Jeanne Flanigan Paul Wortman James Nimmo Joey D. Victor Gorin Libby Post Andrew Collins Donald Pile Ronald, Blake Ray Williams Jack Fetig LIz Highleyman Devre Jackson Michael Leach Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Image PDF Online text Language A language of the resource English Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Southwestern Missouri Western Arkansas Southeastern Kansas Eastern Oklahoma The United States of America (50 states) Type The nature or genre of the resource magazine Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://history.okeq.org/collections/show/19 Relation A related resource The Star Magazine, August 1, 2007; Volume 4, Issue 8 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/203 The Star Magazine, October 1, 2007; Volume 4, issue 10 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/212 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context https://history.okeq.org/items/show/213 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/ddac39db5b605163d6db17f44d13ab44.jpg ed4a8c0f834ae0d7817a3afe0ec9ba64 Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Newspaper article Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2007] Thousands celebrate pride Subject The topic of the resource Pride 2007 Description An account of the resource Newspaper article covering Tulsa Pride 2007. 2007 was the 25th anniversary of pride. Between 15,000 and 18,000 people attended the parade and festivities held at Veterans Park. Tim Williams, OKEQ public relations coordinator, is quoted about the first Tulsa pride event. Marc Acuff, event coordinator, is quoted about his plans for the coming years. Protestors are present. Kathy Hinkle, board member of Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, is quoted about accepting her son’s sexuality. Toby Jenkins, community outreach coordinator for OKEQ and pastor of Emerging Church of Tulsa, is quoted about the feeling of dignity and self-worth that being involved in pride gives him. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Althea Peterson Adam Wisneski Tulsa World Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Tulsa World Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Tulsa World Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource June 10, 2007 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Althea Peterson Adam Wisneski Tulsa World Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newspaper clipping 6.5x4.25' 5.5x4' Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Newspaper article Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context June 10, 2007, Tulsa World, pp. A17, A25 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Tulsa Pride 2007, Oklahomans for Equality, Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, protestors https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/2c7fb9769de7db7cb2658a2cc8705589.jpg 401b898092ac8ea5462c5c328ded33e8 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/0948f673e79d83fa0161dd4273c719d9.pdf 07951cb00f998fd7ace2cfc8bffbab4b PDF Text Text ������� Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Booklet Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2007] Tulsa Pride and Diversity Guide Subject The topic of the resource Pride 2007 Description An account of the resource Guide to Tulsa Pride 2007. Features list of events during pride week, ads for local gay-friendly businesses, a list of sponsors, and the Dennis R. Neil Equality Center. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Oklahomans for Equality Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Oklahomans for Equality Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2007 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Oklahomans for Equality Marc Acuff Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Booklet 9 pages Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Guide Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Tulsa Pride and Diversity Guide 2007 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Pride 2007 Tulsa Pride 25th Anniversary Gay-friendly businesses https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/0d426be7c4cbee728bc6662809a1c1e6.pdf 6b7bcb0c286cb5c7ddf8bc5b88622c10 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Vernon Jones Obituary Description An account of the resource Transcript:<br /><br /> <p>Vernon Leon Jones, 88, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, left this earthly plane to be with his late partner Phil Wiley, on February 5^th, 2024.</p> <p>He was born in Oklahoma, on May 3^rd, 1935. As a gay man, born and raised here, Vernon’s chosen family is vast. He is survived by Hayward Jones, Nekesha Jones, JaKobe Jones, Sue Davis, Fred Hilliard, Arlowe Clementine, Mason Thomas, Rey Thomas, and so many other individuals that claimed Vernon as their friend, family, and elder.</p> <p>Vernon was an active learner, even in his later years. He was always working to understand the world around him and was eternally hopeful for a better world. He was a strong advocate for marginalized peoples and was particularly committed to Queer and Black Liberation.</p> <p>Vernon was a clear Taurus. He was intelligent, dependable, logical, honest, and generous. Vernon spent most of his life focused on making his community better. He was a holder of receipts. A maker of spreadsheets. A true community historian and archivist.</p> <p>Vernon was dedicated to making people safer, both in his career in emergency management and his activist work in the fight against AIDS. He was not a stranger to controversy and was unrelenting in speaking his truth and the truth of the people he loved.</p> <p>In the years before his death, Vernon worked hard to ensure that the legacy of LGBTQ activism in Tulsa was properly recorded and preserved for current and future generations. His substantial archive is now housed in Oklahoma State University’s Archives. This collection will be witnessed by researchers and community members for years to come.</p> <p>Vernon was a connector. He worked hard to bring people together and was always willing to give someone support that needed it. Even in his death, he is connecting individuals over their shared love and respect for him and his life.</p> <p>Vernon fought hard for his community and the legacy of his late partner Phil Wiley. Anyone who knew Vernon was graced with stories of Phil’s life and legacy as well as their love for one another.</p> <p>In lieu of flowers, we ask that you remember Vernon by learning something new, taking a stand on social issues that are important to you, and keeping his life and legacy alive through storytelling.</p> <p>Vernon’s memorial service will take place March 1^st<span> </span>at 11 AM at Butler-Stumpff &amp; Dyer Funeral Home (<a href="https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&amp;&amp;p=bfe3dfa29743f8d2JmltdHM9MTcwODY0NjQwMCZpZ3VpZD0xYTQ3OGQzZC1hYmNmLTYxMWUtMDhjNC05ZjI0YWFiYTYwNDUmaW5zaWQ9NTc0Nw&amp;ptn=3&amp;ver=2&amp;hsh=3&amp;fclid=1a478d3d-abcf-611e-08c4-9f24aaba6045&amp;u=a1L21hcHM_Jm1lcGk9MTIzfn5Vbmtub3dufkFkZHJlc3NfTGluayZ0eT0xOCZxPUJ1dGxlci1TdHVtcGZmJTIwJTI2JTIwRHllciUyMEZ1bmVyYWwlMjBIb21lJTIwJTI2JTIwQ3JlbWF0b3J5JnNzPXlwaWQuWU43MDl4MTIzMDIxMzUmcHBvaXM9MzYuMTU2OTEzNzU3MzI0MjJfLTk1Ljk2MTc5OTYyMTU4MjAzX0J1dGxlci1TdHVtcGZmJTIwJTI2JTIwRHllciUyMEZ1bmVyYWwlMjBIb21lJTIwJTI2JTIwQ3JlbWF0b3J5X1lONzA5eDEyMzAyMTM1fiZjcD0zNi4xNTY5MTR-LTk1Ljk2MTgmdj0yJnNWPTEmRk9STT1NUFNSUEw&amp;ntb=1">2103 E 3rd St, Tulsa, OK 74104</a>).</p> PDF Text Text 1/8/26, 1:44 PM Vernon Leon Jones - Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home & Crematory  Vernon Leon Jones May 03, 1935 - February 05, 2024 Share:    Obituary Event & Services Charities & Donations Gallery Videos https://www.butler-stumpff.com/obituaries/vernon-leon-jones/ 1/4 �1/8/26, 1:44 PM Vernon Leon Jones - Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home & Crematory Guestbook Send Flowers Obituary Vernon Leon Jones, 88, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, left this earthly plane to be with his late partner Phil Wiley, on February 5th, 2024. He was born in Oklahoma, on May 3rd, 1935. As a gay man, born and raised here, Vernon’s chosen family is vast. He is survived by Hayward Jones, Nekesha Jones, JaKobe Jones, Sue Davis, Fred Hilliard, Arlowe Clementine, Mason Thomas, Rey Thomas, and so many other individuals that claimed Vernon as their friend, family, and elder. Vernon was an active learner, even in his later years. He was always working to understand the world around him and was eternally hopeful for a better world. He was a strong advocate for marginalized peoples and was particularly committed to Queer and Black Liberation. Vernon was a clear Taurus. He was intelligent, dependable, logical, honest, and generous. Vernon spent most of his life focused on making his community better. He was a holder of receipts. A maker of spreadsheets. A true community historian and archivist. Vernon was dedicated to making people safer, both in his career in emergency management and his activist work in the fight against AIDS. He was not a stranger to controversy and was unrelenting in speaking his truth and the truth of the people he loved. In the years before his death, Vernon worked hard to ensure that the legacy of LGBTQ activism in Tulsa was properly recorded and preserved for current and future generations. His substantial archive is now housed in Oklahoma State University’s Archives. This collection will be witnessed by researchers and community members for years to come. Vernon was a connector. He worked hard to bring people together and was always willing to give someone support that needed it. Even in his death, he is connecting individuals over their shared love and respect for him and his life. Vernon fought hard for his community and the legacy of his late partner Phil Wiley. Anyone who knew Vernon was graced with stories of Phil’s life and legacy as well as their love for one another. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you remember Vernon by learning something new, taking a stand on social issues that are important to you, and keeping his life and legacy alive through storytelling. https://www.butler-stumpff.com/obituaries/vernon-leon-jones/ 2/4 �1/8/26, 1:44 PM Vernon Leon Jones - Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home & Crematory Vernon’s memorial service will take place March 1st at 11 AM at Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home (2103 E 3rd St, Tulsa, OK 74104). ABOUT US “We will always be kind and we will never take advantage of you or your family at your saddest time” is our promise to you. General Price List BUTLER-STUMPFF & DYER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY  2103 E 3rd St Tulsa, OK 74104  (918) 587-7000  info@butler-stumpff.com  Available 24/7 https://www.butler-stumpff.com/obituaries/vernon-leon-jones/ 3/4 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [Series] Oral Histories Project > Interviews Description An account of the resource <strong>Physical Media:</strong> <br />Box 7, Folder 7 - Dr. Leisa Meyer Program<br />Box 7, Folder 8 - Interviewees Materials, Original Series 2003-2007<br /><br /><strong>Digital Media:</strong> Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2007] Vernon Jones Interview Description An account of the resource Video recording and transcription of Laura Belmonte’s interview of Vernon Jones conducted on February 28, 2007. <strong>Video and Transcript available at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center for on-site research.</strong><strong> </strong>Vernon was born on May 3, 1935, near Tulsa and passed on February 5, 2024 in Tulsa. He enlisted in the Air Force and served for four years in the military in cryptographic operations, including two years stationed in Japan. After thirteen years of marriage and two daughters, Vernon came out to his wife and family. He and his partner, Phil Wiley, were co-founders of the Tulsa Gay Alliance in 1971, and they volunteered with the Tulsa Suicide Prevention Hotline. He worked in emergency management. In the mid-1970’s. He served on a task force within the Tulsa Human Rights Commission to research consideration of ordinance changes to address LGBT discrimination. Vernon left his archives to Oklahoma State University. A copy of his October 10, 2021, interview as a part of OSU’s Diverse Gender and Sexuality of Oklahoma Oral History Project is included in Vernon’s oral history folder at OkEq. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource February 28, 2007 Subject The topic of the resource Vernon Jones Oral History Project Interview from February 28, 2007 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Laura Belmonte, Vernon Jones, Lindsey Killebrew, Matthew D. Williams, Dennis Neill 2007 available at Center Butler-Stumpff & Dyer Funeral Home Butler-Stumpff and Dyer Butler-Stumpff and Dyer Funeral Home Dennis Neill interview Laura A. Belmonte Laura Belmonte Lindsey Killebrew Matthew D. Williams Matthew Williams Obituaries Obituary OKEQ Oral History Project oral history oral history interview Oral History Project oral history transcript transcript Vernon Jones Vernon Leon Jones video https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/76b2f7378053bba98c187e35608f610f.pdf 688d41c95e6735de109a2944b919a50c PDF Text Text �� Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2008] Diversity Celebration Description An account of the resource Documents relating to 2008's Pride festivities. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2008 Language A language of the resource English https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/ecb5eadd978b7d097f1079ccfb70e0da.jpeg 2d28996413560c5e6a3937867817b1c7 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/00d632cada6a026f667ce137bed7603c.jpeg 5cb3c2bf6559e674416f3efb5d265080 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/103ce7f521143b51e0d7149042bb4dd0.jpeg 3b9ee880779c48d66a45bda9cee057c7 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/64c8ab5eafcb2fdc10b7ee25cf74609c.jpeg d5374a1950cfde8a34b9aeadb4acbaca https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/e758375d7ec65b907840d2f32c3b3698.jpeg c83c2ddbf606016e84338cd87f8a103f https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/5b6f3423c2ac1f6774a864540b3f6587.jpeg 8537ab25479d2733446f212b667df7d5 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/8409e07aab1fff1d0a64a686cb16858f.jpeg 61d9602444b3e1eafe2f2f5ce3aedf67 Photo Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2008] Equality Gala Photos Subject The topic of the resource Equality Gala 2008 Photos Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2008 Description An account of the resource 7 photos from the 2008 Equality Gala hosted by Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) of various attendees. 2008 2008 Gala Dennis Neill Dennis R Neill Dennis R. Neill Equality Gala Equality Gala 2008 gala OkEq Oklahomans for Equality Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/4b509a5e5c96b66515bd3f4e7d5ee481.png 1b05abc708a4a80f87885238c4126ea0 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/9561ed775cc4c3157b61bfde4673943f.mp4 488bb5a1256b6dd5cacb20c65ea00927 Moving Image A series of visual representations imparting an impression of motion when shown in succession. Examples include animations, movies, television programs, videos, zoetropes, or visual output from a simulation. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Video Duration Length of time involved (seconds, minutes, hours, days, class periods, etc.) 18 minutes 30 seconds Compression Type/rate of compression for moving image file (i.e. MPEG-4) MPEG-4 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2008] Gala Lifetime Achievement Award 2008, Charles Faudree Subject The topic of the resource Lifetime Achievement Award 2008 2008 Gala Charles Faudree Francie Faudree Lifetime Achievement Award https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/828ad2503fa0191d057842de3d0472b7.jpg 6ec263ac80a251de5387dbfdee9c17cf https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/7735f4a6598447aadbfdd8bd1e226be0.pdf 565528a0d1c62bbfd17bbac5afe9a438 PDF Text Text WWW.METROSTARNEWS.COM "WE DELIVER DIVERSITY" AUGUST 1, 2008 NEHART "I’m not sure what homophobic means:’ Q ote from CNN Interview! From the Editor TULSA, OK __ You can still call us "The Star" although we have a new name, the Metro Star. Tiae Ozarks Star is no longer. With our primary focus on Oklahoma, we decided the Ozarks name was no longer appropriate for our publication. The State of Oklahoma and our t~vo major metropolitan areas, OHahoma City and Tulsa, will continue to be our main focus. The emerging Oklahoma cities of Lawton, McAlester, Ardmore, Muskogee and Enid also have diverse communities that are becoming more active. McPride in McAlester has made a big difference in that area. We will continue to serve them as well. By Metro Star staff Tulsa Pride ~ sets new p~ent for major events new ~home for Pride Some believe nevcs print publications have no future, that electronic media has made the newspaper obsolete. I believe there is need for both. To accommodate those thousands who visit our website, we upload our entire paper each month, an exact duplicate of the printed version. Many, including myself to ¯ think Maybe you noticed we also have a new look. We’ve changed from a magazine m a newspaper format, which will allow us more print space and to increase circulation at a lower increase in cost than the more costly magazine style. Those staples were very expensive! x~lith the added space we now can report more on national and international news that normally you don’t find in the mainstream media. We will continue to sp~ out on eqt~ rights issues and, promote those leaders and organizations who openly support equality Star Media, Ltd., publisher, was formed in Joplin, Missouri in 2003. Vie distributed our first edition New Year’s Eve that year. It was a black & white Readers Digest size of only eight pages and printed from my home printer. We printed less than a 1000 copies because the printer ran out of ink. There were only 4 paid advertisers. XXre called it "Ozarks Pride". We continued to print on my old Dell printer for several months with my dear friend Sissy Blanchard folding and stapling from the dining room table. Because people confused us with a "Pride Organization" we changed the name to the Ozarks Star. Tnat soon was referred to simply as "The Star". We moved to Tulsa in December 2004. The qnal issue of tbe Ozarks Star Magazine, July 2008 Our distribution area in the beginning was Joplin, Springfield, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Pittsburg and Tulsa. To increase our readership we expanded to Oklahoma City, Kansas City, and Wichita and recendy discovered a former Tulsan who owns Napoleon’s Itch Night Club in New Orleans that wanted to distribute "~e Star so he and fellow Oklahomans in New Orleans could keep up on our local news. Now that we’ve made the transition and I’ve filled you in on our past we hope you enjoy the Metro Star. With a new name, a new design and an optimistic outlook we will go forward. Thanks to those of you who have supported us in the past and we welcome those who will support us in the future. Sincerely, Oklahoma County Commissioner Bi ’eni Rinehart ~om District 2, a practicingpublic homo ~hobe OKI2kHOMA CITY, OK__ Oklahoma County Commissioner Brent Rinehart appeared on CNN’s American Morning July 21, to defend his anti-gay comic book that he is sending out to registered Republicans in his district. Wher asked if his comic book took mudslinging to a brand new low, Rinehart replied, "Well, one person’s mudslinging, I guess, is another man’s issues. Here in the state of Oklahoma especially here in Oklahoma County, I believe that the homosexual agenda is an issue in this campaign. I thought that the cartoon book was a novel approach to telling a story for the last three, 3 1/2 years." Rinehart has been charged by Attorney General Drew Edmondson, who is depicted in the book, with illegal campaign financing for his 2004 campaign. He faces trial in September. CNN ROBERTS: In fact, let me just highlight in a little bit more detail your attack on Attorney General Drew Edmondson here as depicted in this comic book. You’ve got him holding a sign that says, "Gay rights now." And you write in the balloon over a character here, "You remember that Drev¢ Edmondson is on record to force the Boy Scouts to accept homosexuals as scout leaders, a pedifiles [sic] dream come true." Tile Attorney General has said of this comic, ’~ drowning man tends to thrash about." And the question is being raised= is this some desperate and weird attempt at payback against the attorney general because he has filed these charges Editor in Chief Wodd Pdde-Pages 9 &13 ............................. Continued on Page-6 �2 www.metrostarnews.com �New Arena Prepares 5h ne New L ght ByJoey D. When walldng the halls of the nearly completed BOK Center in dmvntown Tulsa, it is nearly impossible to be awed by just how massive the new 18,000 seat events center is. The building, ~vhich is o~en described by passers by as either a space ship or a meringue pie, has become a true addition tO the Tt~lsa skyline, with the recently added lit "BOK Center" signs. "This building is truly unique to Tulsa," says Travis Horton of Tulsa Vision Builders, a joint effort of Flintco and Manhattan Construction Companies. "In keeping with Tulsa’s precedent, a large portion of the project’s budget and efforts went to ensuring that the building’s architecture and appearance were truly unique." Located at the corner of 3rd and Denver, the BOK Center is literally a shining example of downtmvn revitalization. "When Pelli (the building’s architect) designed this building, he wanted to incorporate light into it. There are windows everDvhere in here. Even if it’s only a sliver, no matter where you are in here you can see a window? Another feature incorporating light into th~ building that most people may never think about is the terrazzo flooring that runs through out the concourse. According to Horton, the 70% mother-of-pearl mixture was purposely chosen by the architect to make the building shine. of steel and reinforced glass. "I can’t think of anything out there like it that is on this scale? While innovative and impressive, Horton also reassures that the wall is safe. "They have impact tested it with two by?burs and even subjected the model to jet-engine force winds to make sure it will hold? Just inside the glass shield is the building’s main promenade and grand staircase, and grand they are. The open aired promenade allmvs guests to appreciate the magnitude of the building and to bask in the art deco splendor of the historic downtmvn buildings that surround it. The Grand Staircase, raising from the ground level to the main bowl searing, offers event patrons a grand path to their seats, almost on a royal scale. The arena, which is being constructed with funds from the Vision 2025 bond issue, is on target for its grand opening August 30. The ribbon cutting and open house will be followed the next day by a community choir, starring Sand Springs native and Broadway performer Sam Harris. The first major act, The Eagles, will take the arena stage September 6, followed in the coming months by such acts as Celine Dion, American Idols Live, Kenny Chesney and Carrie Under~vood (just to nan~e a few). For event updates visit www.bokcenter.com. "Everything that has been done in here has had his approval. Everythingyou see from the ceiling panels to the stripes of paint on the walls have been approved by him. He has a vision to integrate light into this building,.but also to m~e it feel very open;’ said HOrton. ~ae most noticeable and unique element of the building is its sweeping glass "icon wall? "If Pelli has a signature masterpiece, this would have to be it," Horton says of the massive grid www.metrostarnews.com ~÷t~’oSTAR 3 �Ok!ahomans for Equality opens new exhibit, Treegpeak, at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center TULSA, OK__ The Dennis R. Neill Equality Center art gallery will host it’s month~¢ First Thursdays Meet’the-artist Reception from 69pro, Thursday, August 7, for the opening of its August exkibit TreeSpeak, featuring the,vorks of photographer Shelly Ledford, and painter Dawn DeMott. ~ne TreeSpeak Exhibit is being held specifically in August to acknowledge the Katrina events in New Orleans and to celebrate the rebirth of the city. The works in the exhibit will be New Orleans focttsed. Expressions Community Tulsa Couple to Marry Fellowship Relocates In San Diego. OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (PR) __ Expressions Community Fellowship ha~s relocated their facilities to the Landsbrook Event Center, formerly The Church of the Servant, 5909 NW Expressway, Otdahoma City, OK 73132. It is west of MacArthur on Northwest Expressway. "~e new facility has recently been remodeled and provides many new ~vonderful amenities as well as plenty of room to grow and launch our Children’s Ministr,,~’ said Pastor Neill Spurgin. The Church meets ever), Sunday at 2:30pm. Photo: Charles Johnston and Kelly Kirby Shelly Ledford is a native Tulsan and graduated from Northeastern State University with a degree in Literature. She has held a variety of photographic positions including staffphotographer for Newspaper Printing Corporation, MetLife and John Blanca Modeling agency and currently owns Renaissance Photography. In constant search for places xvhich vibrate a high level of universal energy, her ~vork reflects areas such as New Orleans concentrating on the above ground cemeteries, swamps and bayous in and around New Orleans, Sedona, Italy, Greece, Austria, England and Indonesia. Quotable Quotes In a passionate address to the Democratic National Committee’s Gay and Lesbian Leadership Council, Mrs. Obama delivered a rottsing call-to-equality and put her husbas~d on record as a fighter for the full equality of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans. "Barack believes," she said, "that we must fight for the world as it should be, a world where xve ,vork together to reverse discriminatory laws." Invoking "those who marched and bled and died, from Selma to Stonewall," Michelle implored Democrats to continue those early crusaders’ march "in the pursuit of a more perfect union." For more information contact them at (405) 761-1878 or email expressionsokc@yahoo. com. DBAT Will Host DiversityJob Fair TULSA, OK (PR) __ The Diversity Business Association of Tulsa (DBAT), a program of Oklahomans for Equality, is hosting a Diversity Job Fair on Tuesday, September 16th from 1:00 to 5:00pm at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center, 621 E. 4th Street in downtown Tulsa. The event will bring together lgbt job seekers and lgb{-friendly employers in a safe and comfortable environment, allowing for open dialogue and alleviating fears of discrimination. The Diversity Job Fair offers a unique opportunity for diversity-conscious employers to access the wealth of skilled and talented members of the lgbt community. Additionally, job seekers are given an unprecedented connection to companies that are lgbt-friendly. Employers are asked to have their area set up by 12:30pm the day of the event. DBAT will provide a table and t-wo chairs. Refreshments will also be provided. The Equality Center has wi-fi internet access. For more information or if your company is interested in participating in the job fair, contact Susan Hartman at dbat@okeq.org or call 918-698-2977. Congrattflations m~’~ MCC United A Metropolitan CommuniW Church 4 Sunday Services @ 11:00 AM ].623 N. Maplewood Tulsa, OK to the new Miss Gay Okdahoma America 2008, Adrienne Fischer and 1st Alternate Shantel Mandalay. TULSA, OK__ Kelly W’ayne Kirby and Charles Stanfill Johnston of Tulsa announced they will be legally married on Saturday, August 9, 2008. The wedding will take place at Point Loma Lighthouse Bluff, Cabrillo National Monument, in San Diego, California. Officiating will be Rev. Doctor David Downing, retired clergyman of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). David was one of Kelly’s youth pastors in Kansas when Kelly was a teenager. "Vge are taking five of our six kids (ages 21-26) and their significant others, my morn, and Kelly’s two sisters. Several friends are joining us in San Diego for the wedding’; Charles said. The couple will be staying at the Park Manor Suites Hotel, across the street from Balboa Park, and will host a reception there after the ceremony. " he Hot Young Hollywood Party" to benefit R.A.I.N. OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (PR) _ The party ~vill be held at Angles OKC, August 8th and will include fashion shmvs by Riot Rocket and GLAMNERD. The highlight of the evening will be a continuous raffle of luxury gifts *including a MARC JACOBS bag* donated by some of the hippest restaurants and shops in the metro. Keeping xvith the "Hollywood" theme we will have a red carpet and sponsor board for everyone to have their picture taken with. Our sponsors include; Tony Foss, Iguana, Velvet Monkey Two, 1492, Nova, Tom & Jerrys, Blue7, Duo.. "This event was nay idea of a great give back to this wonderful organization and its tireless stalk"; said Kendel R. Powers, producer of the fund-raiser. All proceeds from the event to benifit R.A.I.N. (Regional Aids Interfaith Network) www.mcctulga.org August 2008 �Room Ra~es From A~ About Our Su#es = High N~ wv,-~v.metrosta mews.corn P~et~oSTAR 5 �CYNDI SHOWS COLOURS against you for campaign irregularities for 2004?" The comic book shows a couple discussing Rinehart’s trials and tribulations as an Oklahoma County Commissioner, how Rinehart strives to accomplish better roads and bridges, lower taxes, and promote family values but is thwarted by public officials supported by Satan. "Be sure and vote--your voice counts, and it’s more important who our ,p, resident is than who is our next American Idol. Cyndi Lauper. By Victor Gorin BRENT RINEHART: "OK. Again, it’s getting a message out. It’s telling a story" of hmv I got to where I’m at the last 3 to 3 1/2 years. No~a; no one has ever - now people can talk about the homosexual aspects of this in regards to how they’re depicted but no one has ever said anything about the truthfulness of my cartoon book. How it exposes Drew Edmondson for his true agenda, and how it exposes others here in county government for their true agenda. No one and you know, you can attack the spelling of pedophile. I have to be honest with you, I don’t necessarily care if I misspelled it or not", T!~e following are quotes from a few of our other elected officials. "It’s extremely pathetic and very bigoted." Oklahoma County Sheriff John Whetsel ’Tve really encouraged him on more than one occasion to get professional help. He really, needs it". Oklahoma County Assessor Leonard Sullivan "It’s typical Rinehart subterfuge to detract from his poor job performance and likely criminal misdeeds". Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Jim Roth Once again Oklahomans has been embarrassed by someone we elected to office. Will this newest outrage provoke us to seriously look at who we vote for? q-his election year will soon tell. We must take the time to evaluate a candidate’s ability to represent us and to support equality for all citizens of this state. Many are just not capable. TULSA, OK (PR), July 16th _ Oklahomans for Equality deplores the vandalism directed at Robert Stoder, an openly gay resident of east Tulsa. Such intimidation highlights the urgent need for federal and state hate crimes legislation protecting lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LBGT) people. Over the last week, anonymous vandals have twice attacked Stoder’s propert): The assailants set Stotler’s truck on fire and spray painted "Gay Must Go" on the charred vehicle. The comic books, which is sure to be a classic in the annals of political history for the GLBT community and Oklahoma, can be downloaded from http://do~vnloads.newsok. com/documents/rinehartcartoon.pdf Zhe purpose for publishing the 16-page book was to highlight his commitment to destroying the queers. ~q~en asked whether it’s relevant to his election, Rinehart insists that it is, because we are in a cultural war. When asked whether he’s homophobic, Rinehart played (real) dumb: I’m not even sure as to what homophobic means. But let’s just keep in mind that we are in a cultural war, not just here in the state of Oklahoma but nationwide." CNN journalist, John Roberts does not seem amused. You can tell when he does a little grammar check: "We should also point out that the word pedophile is spelled wrong in the two times that’s it’s used in this comic book". OkEq Decries Anti-Gay Vandalism in East Tulsa glndy Bell ofErasure and Cyndi Lauper at Oklahoma City True Colours Taut: OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__ On June 23 the Pride Weekend in Oklahoma City was especially honored when the True Colours Tour came to the Oklahoma City Zoo Amphitheater. Despite the high heat of the afternoon, the show rocked with opening act Girl in a Coma. The show then mellowed into disco heaven with the 80’S sounds of Andy Bell of Erasure, bringing back nostalgic memories of nights past vcith some of his greatest tunes, "Blue Savannah," "A little Respect; and bringing many to their feet with his dance classic "Chains of Love." Mr. Bell did a duet with Cyndi Lauper before music took an intermission ,vith comedienne Margaret Cho whose ba~vdy humor extolled what’s good about gay men and bad about the Bush administration. Then Joan Jett showed she still had her stuff, performing classics older than many of the young people dancing in the audience. V,rhen she lead community singing with her signature tune "I love Rock and Roll," ( a 1982 classic) there was no shortage of rockers who enthusiastically knew the words. This follmved with the B-52’s, the wildly fun icons of the 80’s ,vho got their name from a hairdo named after a bomber. The energy ran vdld as the audience raved to their timeless numbers including "Rock Lobster," "Private Idaho" "Roam" and course "Love Shack" which predictably brought the house dmvn. All of this vcas held together by the perfect emcee, Carson Kressley ( famous from television’s QEeer Eye for the Straight Guy) whose wisecracks (induding flirtations with the hunky security guards) witticisms and audience interaction kept the show rolling and lively between "No Oklahoman should be victimized because of his or her sexual orientation;’ asserts Freddy Owens, Executive Director of Oklahomans for EqualiD: "All of Oklahoma’s lesbian, gay; bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) citizens should be free to live openly and safely. It is far past time that our state legislature amended our hate crimes la~vs to include the LGBT community:’ In 2006, the FBI reported 7,722 hate crimes across the US, a 7.8% increase over 2005. About half were due to racial hatred; 1,195 of the crimes - representing 15.5% - were due to bias against LGBT people. 79 of the hate crimes were reported in Oklahoma, but the state hate crimes law does not cover sexual orientation or gender identity and expression. Earlier this year, state lawmakers introduced four different bills attempting to strengthen and broaden the Oklahoma statute. None of the bills received a committee hearing. Oklahoma remains one of only 17 states whose hate crimes laws do not protect LGBT citizens. Las Vegas Nights and Lights! (aka- Drag Q een Bingo) Bingo like your mother never played.,. This annual event and fur~draiser for Our House Too will be held August 8th at the Cain’s Ballroom. Female impersonators will bring Las Vegas excitement for this, the fifth year, beginning at 8:00p.m. and ending at midnight. There will be glamorous costumes and prizes. A live auction ~vill be held and, of course, bingo! Female inapersonators will perform glittering numbers from Las Vegas shows to entertain the crowd. acts. Last but certainly not least was the dassy campy icon who epitomized an era, Cyndi Lauper, who not only has made her mark in music history but also as a gay rights activist. Opening with an electrified Statue of Liberty torch and the song "Change of Heart," she went through her many hits, climaxing of course with the timeless anthem’Girls just want to have Fun." Our House Too is a nonprofit organization serving to eliminate the social isolation of people living with HIV and AIDS in the Tulsa area. In addition to providing monthly activities and holiday celebrations, Our House Too offers food baskets and a toiletry and household pantry. Tickets for Las Vegas Nights and Lights are $10 in advance or $15 at the door per person. For advanced ticket sales call 585-9552 or 698-9997. Directory of Local Animal Shelters Tulsa Shelter Broken Arrow OKC Muskogee Stillwater Coweta Siloam Springs Claremore Sand Springs Jenks Owasso Sapulpa Norman Collinsville 918-669-6299 918-259-8311 405 297 3104 918 686 7297 405 372 0334 918-486 2137 479 524 6535 918 341 1260 918 246 2543 918 299 6311 918-272-4965 918 227 2722 405 321 6725 918 371 1000 Courtesy ofwwv.labrescue.net 6 ~®t~’oSTAR August 2008 �Wockner News Service LI.& Senate votes to repeal HI¥ travel/immigration ban Schwarzenegger denounces effort to reban same-sex marriage Key The U.S. Senate voted 80q6 on July 16 to repeal the nation’s ban on HIV-positive foreign visitors and immigrants. Sens. John Kerry, D-Mass., and Gordon Smith, R-Ore., secured a provision to repeal the ban in the Senate’s legislation to reauthorize PEPFIMR, the President’s EmergenW Plan for AIDS Relief. ABC, FX get high marks from GLAAD ABC and the FX cable network do the best job of representing gay Americans, the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation said July 14. The San Diego Convention and Visitors Bureau is holding a contest to give away a six-day "dream vacation" to the city for a same-sex couple to get married. GLAAD’s Network Responsibility Index tracks the quantity, quality and diversity of images of GLBT people on television. ~ae sweepstakes, which ends Aug. 1, is open to U.S. residents who are at least 25 years old. "’g~e’re celebrating the new laws allowing same-sex weddings in California," ConVis said on its ~’eb site. The measure now moves to a House-Senate conference committee, then goes to President George "\g~. Bush, who is eager to see PEPFAR re-~\tnded. "We applaud the Senate l:or rejecting this unjust and sweeping policy that deems HIV-positive individuals inadmissible to the United States," said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. "We call on the leaders of the House and Senate to retain the Kerry-Smith provision in conference and ensure it is included in the fin!l legislation sent to the president’s desk." "The HIV ban is ineffective, unnecessary, and Simply bad public health policy," said Rachel Tiven, executive director of Immigration Equality. "It is especially harmful to gay and lesbian families, who do not benefit from the waiver available to opposite’sex couples. The Senate’s change is welcome, and long overdue." PEPFAR will send $48 billion to Africa over the next five years to fight _AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis. Sen. Joseph Biden, D-Del., called the bill "the single most significant thing the president has done." Two policemen marry in Northern California Two male cops have gotten married in Northern California. Santa Rosa police officer Chris Mahurin, 25, and San ILafael police officer Alex Holm, 25, tied the knot June 20 at Paradise Ridge Winery in Santa Rosa. "It’s just a dream come true," Holm’s mother, Claire Ann Boyce, told the local Press Democrat newspaper. "It makes me feel like this generation is on its way to have what everyone should have." ~ae ceremony was conducted by gay state Assemblyman Mark Leno, D-San Francisco, chief sponsor of the same-sex marriage bill that t~vice passed the state Legislature only to be vetoed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. The California Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage May 15 and the ruling took effect June 16. www.rnetrostarnews.com San Diego offers gaywedding sweepstakes "Ever dreamed of being married in Paradise? In a short story, tell us why you should win the wedding vacation of your dreams in San Diego. The best story will win a trip that includes your marriage license, transportation, accommodations, dining and entertainment." California Gov. ArnoM Schwarzene~e,: Photo by Rex Wockner California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has strongly denounced the attempt to amend the California Constitution to re-ban same-sex marriage. The state Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage May 15 and the weddings began on June 16. Appearing on TV’s Meet The Press on June 29, Schwarzenegger was asked: "You have a lot of propositions on the ballot again this fall. One of them wotfld mean a constitutional ban on gay marriages. Do you support that?" "No, not at all," Schwarzenegger replied. "As a matter of fact, I think the Supreme Court made a decision there. It was apparently unconstitutional to stop anyone from getting married. It’s like 1948, the interracial marriage, when the Supreme Court of California has, you know, decided it was unconstitutional and then later on the Supreme Court of the United States followed, I think 10 or ! 2 years later. So I tahink it is, it’s good that California lead -- is leading in this way." "I personally believe that marriage should be between a man and a woman," the governor added. "But at the same time I think that my, you know, belief, I don’t want to force on anyone else, so I think we should stay with the decision of the Supreme Court and move forward. There are so many other more important issues that we have to address in California. So I think to spend any time on this initiative I think is a waste of time." It was not the first time Schwarzenegger had denounced the proposed amendment, but it was the first time he has done so on national television. Desperate Housewives: Lane. ABC photo At the beach in San Diegoi Photo by Rex tgockner ABC, wiffl shows like Brothers & Sisters, Desperate Housewives and Ugly Betty, received the highest marks of the five broadcast networks. NBC and Fox scored lowest. Among 10 of the highest-rated cable channels, FX aired the largest number of GLBTinclusive hours of original programming, while TNT offered the fewest. The prize includes airline tickets; five nights at a plush hotel; dinners at five fancy restaurants; wine, cheese and chocolate tasting at an upscale venue; tickets to the renowned Old Globe Theatre; tickets to the GLBT Diversionary Theatre; "passports" to Balboa Park’s numerous museums; a massage at a swank spa; a wedding license; and tickets to Fashion Week. GLAAD examined all primetime programming -- 4,911 hours -- on the five major broadcast networks (ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox and The CW) from June 1, 2007, to May 31, 2008. The group also reviewed all original primetime programming -- 1,240 hours -- on the 10 cable networks. "Time and again we see that what people watch on TV shapes how they view and treat the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people around them," said GLAAD President Nell Giuliano. "ABC and FX are ... showing other networks that including images of our community can go hand in hand with critical and commercial success." Each of the 6,151 hours of TV was reviewed for any on-screen GLBT representations, and networks were assigned a grade of excellent, good, adequate or failing. San Diego’s Balboa Park. Photo by Rex ~Vockner See www.sandiego.org/pridetobe ABC and The CW rated good, with 24 percent and 21 percent of their primetime programming hours inclusive of GLBT representations. CBS rated adequate, with 9 percent. NBC and Fox ..... continued Page-17 ............ More U. S. Nexvs page 17 ~÷troSTAR 7 �0 Photo by: Bill Gaddis Mandra Rossa Fiano/Sicilia 2006 More summer sipping. The Fiano grape comes frora the island of Sicily, and, taken a gold medal at the International Wine Challenge 2007, this botde was named as ’Great Value White Wine of the Year; Here is a medium bodied wine ~vith a fresh, floral nose. "Ihe finish has a taste of succulent pear and ripe melons. Bongiovanni Arneis 2006 ~~ere in midsummer, I find that I am enjoying lighter meals with more white wines over reds. Lately, my favorites include a diverse variety from many parts of the world. It’s been so hot that all I wanna do is relax by the pool/s~vim & sip some wine. Here are some wines other than Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc that embody the laid backness of summer. I~O~ ’ ItS hard to find sonaething that Piedmont produces in a xvhite wine that’s just as exceptional as those big Barolos and Barbarescos you read about all the time. However, one of the notable exceptions can be found in the white grape, Arneis. This wine comes from the Langhegrowing zone in Piedmont. Bright pear flavors are the hallmark of this wine. at cold temperatures. This is a wine of finesse, and elegance. At the palate it’s Sharp ~ great finish of light spices will become even years of ageing. C- Sineann Pinot Gris 2007 Torbreck VCoodcutter’s Semillon Dr. Loosen Riesling ~ 0 Michd 2007 Ken Forrester Petit Chenin Blanc 2007 This lighdy sweet, low-alc6h 8 5 percent) " _ Dr. Loosen Bros. German RJ , ngf~om Mo, Saar-Ruwer is ideal for casual mmmertime quaffing. This wine has a creamy texture with : flavors of honey, apples, peaches;aa~,d miner,s. Pair with spicy grilled chicken or ~’i food[ [ ~d Vouvray !-lno I say ~ o to vour ~avorlte - ~ as always, " ~: " wlne " shop, ask ~ti0n~ ~’nd p(,rchase a bottle or ~ ........ two:~laare[some tooa ~ wine wire rrlenos ano cnecac tins out for yourself. St. Amant Verdelho2005 This exotic Portuguese white varietal is a new wine for this California vineyard. It’s a full bodied wine that shmvs tropical fruit flavors that ;" really come alive on your palate. D’ This writer also bar tends and hosts wine & food events knownofinTulsa. town as the Wine Enthusiasts Zeveri Muller Thurgau 2006 Garci Grande Verdejo 2006 This is a 100% Muller Thurgau from Trentino’s Valle di Cerebra district in Northern Italy. The fruit is sourced from five single vineyards. The grapes are gently crushed and then macerated ..... Ftom me l~ueoa region m ~pam, tins wine , shows a crisp green apples flavor/a must for " serious smnmer sipping. References include: the ~IBC’s ofwine by James Laube/www. www.FoodandV~ne.com "Www.Wikipedia.org With Donald This months recipe courtew Phoenix, Arizona quart pot, boil the water for the pasta, (112 lg. for 2 persons max.) When the water boils, add 3 tal~lespoons of salt (preferably kosher.) Add the pa~’ta. If fresh, 2 *:ninutes will do. If *One ofthe many desserts at the restaurant" Ingredients: The Pesto: 1/2 bunch of basil (leaves only) 1/3 cup ex. Virgin olive oil Handfifl of fresh pinoli nuts 1/4 cnp grated Parmigiana (Reggiana or Granaonly) 1 dove garlic smashed pinch of salt Pasta: (~ recommend fresh pasta only) ~OW gO: In a processor, place the basil, parmigiana and clove of garlic. Turn on the processor and slowly drizzle in the oil. Add the pinoli nuts and dash of salt. qqae paste should be creamy but never add too much oil ! In a 4 8 ~e~ ~oSTAR you cannot find fresh pasta, dry pasta should take approximately 8 minutes. ~ou do NOT want to eat overcooked pasta. ~A1 dente," is the only way to enjoy it. Reserve about an 1/8 of the pasta xvater to add while tossing your pastawith the pesto sauce. Hint: Never add more oil - it doesn’t work. MACEDONIA CON LIMONE E ZUCCHERO (Fresh fruit salad With lemon juice, sugar and fresh mint) Ingredients: Berries are a good choice. Strawberries, blueberries, black and raspberries will always ~narry~vell. Melons, pears and app!es vary texture and release flavors that don t blend well with berries in this dish. Freshly squeeze 2 lemons and add 2 Tablespoons of sugar and wisk together. Blend and toss with the berries, place in a dessert cup and garnish with fresh mint. August 2008 �Wockner News Service Police stop first Cuban gay pride march Boy George banned from the U.S. Police in Havana stopped Cuba’s first gay pride parade before it could start June 25. But the details of what exactly took place are far fi’om clear. The United States has refused to give British gay singer Boy George a visa to enter the country because he faces trial in Britain for allegedly chaining a male escort to a wall in his apartment. Reports from activists in Miami said the organizers were beaten and arrested around 10 a.m. as they arrived at Don Quixote Park at 23rd and J streets in the Vedado neighborhood. Fort Lauderdale’s Sun-Sentinel newspaper, however, said the march was canceled just before its start time by activist Mario Josd Delgado Gonz~itez, who appeared at the park to report that two other organizers had been arrested a day earlier. The Miami Herald, on the other hand, reported that nine organizers were detained the morning of the march, effectively aborting the event. The Spanish H-/eb site cubaencuentro.com quoted Delgado as saying: "Cuban homosexuals are victims of repression, we don’t enjoy rights. HA~at we are doing has as its objective the reclaiming of our rights. \re want equality of opportunity, equality of assembly, and that they dont expel its from parks, university centers, schools and work centers." With a theme of"You are not alone," the group had planned to walk to the Ministry of Justice and deliver demands to the government. They sought an end tO ~nti-gay violence and repression, an apology for the government’s having incarcerated gays in work camps decades ago, acknowledgment that gays have been fired because of their sexuality, and a review of cases where homosexuals have been jailed for an offense apparently known as "dangerous levels." At the march’s end, the group planned to proceed to a diplomatic residence to hold a press conference and stage a concert. Prior to the aborted mar&, Havana gay activist Aliomar Janjaque had told the Sun-Sentinel: "H/e want to raise awareness but we don’t want to provoke a wave of repression against the gay community. If there is a hostile reaction from the government, we will stage a much larger demonstration. "We will take to the streets." \[he Herald report said Janjaque was one of the individuals detained before the parade’s start. Gays march in 3 Indian cities George had planned a summer U.S. tour and also hoped to perform a free concert for New York City’s Department of Sanitation, where he worked cleaning streets in 2006 as punishment for a drug offense. George has pleaded not guilty in the ongoing British case. Lambda Istanbul eradicated by court Istanbul’s Beyoglu Court of First Instance has formally eradicated the gay group Lambda Istanbul, saying its existence contravened societal norms of morality and decency. Issuing its opinion this month in a case it decided in May, the court declared: "While members of the association are, as men and women, subject to Article 10 of the Constitution, which states that all persons are equal before the law; since there are no constitutional regulations regarding any other gender identity besides man and woman, forraing an association based solely on sexual orientation and gender identity is against the essence and the spirit of this Article, and the concept of equality aimed by it." The court continued: "It is observed that encouragement and propaganda, in all levels of the society, of the sexual orientation of the members of the association through organizing instructive programs are predominant in the association’s aims, and that these activities are likely to bring about a tyranny of a minority over the majority, which is against legal and constitutional regulations, and that this would jeopardize the rights and freedom of the family and children, as mentioned in Article 41 of the Constitution, and the rights and the freedom of the youth, as mentioned in Article 58 of the Constitution." The court proceeded to "dissolve" Lambda Istanbul, saying the European Convention on Human Rights allows obstruction of the right to association "to protect public morality and others’ freedom." The court also found that Lambda’s bylaws contravened a Turkish law that states, "No association may be founded for unlawful or immoral purposes." Lambda Istanbul has been in existence since 1993 and had been officially registered for two years. The group has continued to operate since the ruling and is appealing the decision to the Court of Cassation. Some ZOO0 GLBTpeople staged pride marches in the Indian cities of Calcutta, Bangalore and Delhi fi~ne 29 -- the first such parades in the latter two cities. Delhi photo by Sonali ~Gulati via Woc]ener ~Vews Some 2,000 GLBT people staged pride marches in the Indian cities of Calcutta, Bangalore and Delhi June 29 -- the first such parades in the latter two cities. About 500 people marched in Calcutta, 700 in the high-tech city of Bangalore and about 800 in Delhi. "When the pride started (in Delhi), there were about 100 people and it looked like we were outnumbered by the media and the police," said correspondent Vikram Doctor. "By the time we started (marching), though ... more and more people were coming along and getting attached to the end. I was walking back and forth, trying to help with media requests, and I got a sense of how large it was growing ~vhen I realized in addition to the main group carrying the flag upfront, there was a second large group behind with placards and doing dances -- and then a really large group of stragglers behind." Calcuttgs seventh parade focused heavily on Section 377, the Indian law that bans gay sex under penalty of up to 10 years in prison. A court case, now at a crucial phase, could see the law "read down" so it no longer applies to consensual adult gay sex. "India continues to stigmatize its transgender, kothi, hijra, gay, lesbian, bisexual and other communities of marginalized sexualities and genders," organizers said. "Section 377 ... encroaches upon a person’s democratic rights, goes against the spirit of the Indian Constitution and impedes life-saving sexual health work among sexual minorities." The parade was part of Rainbow Pride W’eek, which also featured movies, a photo exhibit, a panel discussion and a candlelight memorial for people lost to anti-gay abuse or HIV. "Clearly, Indian sexual minorities are not going to settle for status quo and are garnering www.metrostarnews.com support from different stakeholders, media included, in their struggle to be free from discrimination, receive respect from all sections of society, and function as equal participants in a progressive and democratic India," organizers said at the parade’s conclusion. The Queer Media Collective issued a statement saying that GLBT people in India today find themselves at about the same point U~S. gays were when the first pride parades began in 1970. "LGBT people face a lot of harassment from the police," the group said. "Lesbians are subject to violence and even forced to commit suicide by their families. Gay men are blacks-nailed by organized rackets that involve members of the police. Bisexuals are denied the chance to express same-sex love and forced into opposite-sex marriages. Transgenders are routinely arrested and raped by the police. Same-sex couples who have lived together for years cannot buy a house together, have a joint bank account or will their property to each other without being challenged by their families .... Today in 2008, Queer Pride goes national as a sign that the time for national change has come." Czech pride attacked, 20 injured The Czech Republic’s first gay pride parade, held in the city of Brno, came under attack from extremist and neo-Nazi protesters June 28 and at least 20 of the 500 marchers xvere injured. The 150 counterdemonstrators threw tear gas, fireworks and eggs at the marchers. Police and neo-Nazis clashed for about 45 minutes at the parade’s endpoint. About 15 of the troublemakers were arrested. g~®troSTAR 9 �Oklahoma City GLBT community and their friends celebrated their annual Pride Parade and Festival, truly. By Victor Gorin OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Once again the GLBT community and their friends celebrated their annual Pride Parade and Festival truly, as the theme stated, "Coming of Age." Paul q’hompson recalled how it began 21 years ago, planned by around a dozen people, not knowing if any more people would actually show up. q-he Ku Klux Klan had threatened to show up however, ready to meet the Parade by the N.W. 39th Street Safeway (now Homeland) with hostile confrontation. As the original marchers still nostalgically recall, when the Klansmen saw around 400 marchers coming over the hill they promptly abandoned their mission and the rest is ongoing history. As soon as the festivities are over, planning for the next Parade and Festival begins. OKC Pride meetings take place the third Monday of every month year round at 7 p.m. at the Neighborhood Alliance Center (1236 N.W. 36th Street). Membership dues to join OKC Pride are only $15 per year, which not only supports the event but also gives you a vote in the organization. At the August 18 meeting OKC Pride members will elect the Board of Directors, which in turn will elect officers. Although the OKC Pride Parade & Festival is a wonderful celebration for our community, inevitably there are aspects of it that some won’t like, or improvements that could be made. As Patti Thompson puts it. "The best way to implement the changes you want to see is through participation. If you have ideas, things you’d like to change, things you liked that you want to stay the same, this is the time to come forward and let us know. We are open to all suggestions: OKC Pride is for the community, and it’s what we make it. (Photo’s Page- 12) Back to School Stylings ByJoey De TULSA, OK__ On August 4, one Tulsa salon will open its doors and help area youth begin their new school year in style. Monkey Bizness, located at 5942 S. Lewis, is offering complimentary hair cuts to the students of nearby Wright Elementary, as well as to all area BLGT students. The back to school day of beauty was the idea of Monkey Bizness stylist David Mitchell and friend Debbie Mayabb. "We wanted to do something to help BLGT youth, but the more we thought about it, the more we realized that we could so much more; says Mayabb. "Every kid deserves a good start to the school year. It doesn’t matter who they are or what they are." Photo by Victor Gorin : Michael Cich ofOKC Pride with Joe Salmonese, Director of the national Human Rights Campaign with his partner Brad Luna (Photo But over the last 21 years as the world, America and Oklahoma have changed, so has the Pride Festival and Parade. Whereas during the first few years politicians were scared to even acknowledge the event in a positive way, later public office holders and wannabes proudly participate, glad to seek our votes. This year’s Parade & Festival featured Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Jim Roth, State Representative A1 McAffrey, State Senator Audrew Rice (seeking a U.S. Senate seat), Ron Marlett who is seeking to unseat the infamous Sally Kern in State House District 84. : co~munity volunteer and David ofMonkey "The for the haircuts just came to us one day; ex- Whereas in the beginning only bars, a few small gay owned businesses and extremely progressive nonprofits wanted to be associated with us, today mainstream businesses ranging from Budlight to Best Buy were proud to seek our business. As it has grown consistendy year after year, it has become an event not only for our community but also takes its place among Oklahoma City’s mainstream events. Whereas in the beginning it was only positively covered in the Gayly Oklahoman, this year’s celebration was positively covered by the Sentinel, the Oklahoma Gazette, and even the Daily Oklahoman. For the first time the Parade was held on a Friday evening with the biggest crowd ever, follo~ved by the Festival in Memorial Park the following Saturday and Sunday. As the Pride Festival and Parade has gro~vn to be an event the community celebrates and counts on, so have the responsibilities of making it happen. The event is organized by OKC Pride, an organization with members who elect a Board of Directors, who then elect a President (currently Paul Thompson) VicePresident (office vacant)a Secretary (currently Victor Gorin) and a Treasurer (Currently Patricia Miller). What truly makes it come to life are the volunteers who toil long hours to make it happen, something most spectators have no concept of and take for granted. For the first time OKC Pride had a Volunteer Coordinator, Miles Tompkins. While last year OKC Pride had around 20 volunteers, this year we had over 60, with a high percentage of those new volunteers young people (under 30), 10 ~t~oSTAR "We approached Trish, the manager of the salon, and she loved the idea. When we asked all of the stylists, the support could not have been more overwhelming:’ Mitchell says that every Monkey Business stylist will be volunteering their day off to help, free of charge. "There are so many distractions for so many young people; says Mayabb, "everyone here wants to help give these kids that extra boost to succeed. It’s special for them to be able to come in to a salon of this caliber and be taken care of by the best.’ Mayabb explains, listing off awards and recognitions that the salon’s team have won, including an Emmy won by Mitchell. The t~vo say that they worked with one of Mitchell’s clients, a TPS principal, to identify nearby Wright Elementary as the beneficiary due to economic status of its students and proximity to the salon. The salon will also be reaching out to BLGT students through Youth Services of Tulsa and DYLN. Haircuts will be offered from 10am until 4pm. All students will have to bring an item proving they are enrolled in school. The salon has also invited their clients, and the rest of the public, to become involved with the effort through their "outfit-tree." They are currendy seeking donations of basic school supplies and backpacks to equip students for the first day of school. If you would like to help, contact Monkey Biziness at (918)749-5130 or visit them on ,~wv.360.tulsa.com under the beauty section. August 2008 �celebrate our 25th anniversary pride celebration. For more information & travel deals, visit wxcw.metrostarnews.com [~etroSTAR 11 �~en banded together to,r.aisemoney for Under the direction of OYP S Mama Carol this Con~ert was held atthe Tulsa, OK. Oklahoma Fdends of 12 August2008 �@ Showtime 2qse Royal Navy marching m London s gay pmde paradeJuly 5. ScotsGay phOm via ~ockner News Halfa million at London Pride Around halfa million people turned out for London’s gay pride parade July 5, led by Mayor Boris Johnson, who wore a pink cowboy hat. MP Harriet Harman, minister of equality and deputy leader of the Labour Party, reportedly was booed as she spoke from die main stage at Trafalgar Square. Members of the British Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force marched in uniform. The Ministry of Defence offered free travel for servicemembers who wanted to attend the parade. Tatchell said the crowd was unhappy over the UK’s treatment of gay asylum-seekers from homophobic nations. Well-known activist Peter Tatchell carried a poster with a doctored, gayed-up photo of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. ~madme~ad leads a regime that arrests, jails; flogs, tortures and sometimes executes gay people," Tatchell said. Italian gay man wins 100,000 euros for discrimination A gay man on the island of Sicily won 100,000 euros (US$159,000) from the Italian government July 12 after the military and the Transport Ministry discriminated against him. Danilo Giuffrida came out as gay during his military medical exam. Doctors later relayed his coming-out to driver’s-license officials, who then accused him of having a sexual identity disturbance, told him to retake his driving test and, when he passed it, gave him a one-year disabled-person’s license instead of the normal 10-year license. Prior to the parade, Prime Minister Gordon Brown met with activists, including actor Sir Ian McKellen0 at his residence. They discussed homophobic bullying in schools, and Browds spokesman said he was "delighted" to have met with the group. "Discrimination against those in the army who are lesbian, gay and bisexual does not give them a chance to contribute or to play a full part in the teams that are vital for our success on operations;’ said Gem Richard Dannatt, chief of the General Staff. "It is ... our absolute duty to treat our fellow soldiers as vce would wish to be treated ourselves." Britain banned gays from the military until 2000. The Royal Navy and Royal Air Force are already members of the Stonewall program. A court determined the events amounted to "sexual discrimination" and were unconstitutional. It is likely the first ruling of its sort in Italian history. British Army joins gayequality program Some 120,O00people turned outfar Henna’s~ 13th gay pride paradeJuly, 12. The British Army has joined the gay group Stonewall’s Diversity Champions program to work toward increased equality for gay and bisexual soldiers. www.metrostarnews.com ~4®troSTAR 13 �out their website. The publisher Michael McFall has done a absolutely great job. It is the finest gay guide in any state that we have ever seen. by Donald Pile and Ray Williams PHOENIX, ARIZONA There are a lot of wonderful museums, galleries and shopping in the Phoenix area. Antique Marketplace is located at 4025 North 16th Street and sells a wide range of antiques. Next door is the Root Seller Gallery 8: Apothecary that sells a large variety of artwork, books, cards, herbs, music and more. The arts are alive and well in Phoenix and there are a lot of live theatre, and musical productions. Phoenix is surrounded by maW suburban cities and our favorite is TEMPE. tt is the home of Arizona State University and is one of the most progressive cities in the nation. Check out their website at: vibranttempe.com and click on GLBT TEMPE. Michael Martin and Nancy Black at the Convention and Visitors Bureau are two of the nicest people you would ever want to meet. Their revitalized downtown is so vibrant. ’~b~zona Sunburst Inn After leaving ~Zest Hollywood we drove to Phoenix where the weather was HOT. In the daytime it was 115 but at night it cooled down to around 110! We checked in to the ARIZONA SUNBURST INN which,aas sold about a year and a half ago and Tim and James have remodeled and really changed the decor and ambiance. Tney have done a vconderful job. Both Tim and James are great hosts and they make you at home. The room furniture is very masculine. Since they have taken over they have had many guests that have returned several times. All rooms face the swimming po61 and they also have a Jacuzzi. A morning breakfast is ready whenever you want it. They have VflFI for guests and a public computer for those who forgot t° bring their lap top. They are located at 6245 North 12th Place, ideally located to all of the major gay bars and businesses. Check out their ~vebsite at: www.azsunburst.com. Their toll free nmnber is 1-800 -974-1474. They offer clothing optional stmbathing, swimruing and spa. This is the ONLY place to stay when visiting PhoenLx. There are dozens and dozens of restaurants to dine in Phoenix but our favorites are Marcellint Pdstorante which has tO be one of the finest Italian Restaurants that ~ve have had the pleasure of dining. They are located at !301 Northern Avenue. Their website is: ~wv.marcellinoristorante.com..If you want true Italian coo~ng in an exciting atmosphere with servers who are the best then dine there. Tne mvners, Sirna and Marcellino Verzino are as good as it gets. Marcellino is the chef and his "beyond Fabulous" wife Sima is the "hostess who really is the mostess’! The combination of these two people are magic! Call for reservations: 602.216-0004. For a real dining experience we just can’t recommend dais restaurant enough. 14 NetroSTAR You can’t dine at the same restaurant every day so try TICOZ at 5114 North 7th Street. To say that it is wonderfifl is an understatement. Chef Holly creates the finest entrees and desserts ever. It has a great ambiance, wonderful service and their food presentation is as good as it gets. They have a huge following and we can certainly understand why! They have a great Saturday and Sunday Brunch special and the restaurant is always packed. They make some of the finest drinks in the city. Check out their website at www.ticozofarizona.com. For reservations call 602-200-0160. Be SURE and save room for dessert. Trust us on this one. They are totally beyond Fabulous! They also mvn another restaurant not too far away, SWITCH, 2603 North Central and their website is www. switchofarizona.com and they serve wonderful food there as well. There are a lot of gay bars in Phoenix for vchatever you are into. Favorite bars includes Charlies (the cowboy bar), Amsterdam, downtown, Cell Block, the leather bar, Oz, Wild Card, and we particularly enjoyed the KoBalt at Park Central ~vhich has a piano bar sometimes. Phoenix is the largest city (area wise) in the country so you certainly need a car to get around town. There are a lot of neighborhood bars around the city besides the large bars. They also have a couple of bath houses, the FLEX and the CHUTE. Most of the bars are located between 7th Avenue and 16th Street near Central Avenue. ~Ihe best place to find any bar or business in Phoenix is in the ARIZONA PRIDE GUIDE, vc~vw.arizonaprideguide.com. This informative guide is free and tells about the entire state of Arizona. It is distributed free all over the State or you can have them send you one.Just check Phoenix is a very friendly city and you are sure to make lots of new friends. Other websites to check out be~bre visiting Phoenix are: ¯aw~a~.gayarizona.com, w,a-,v.arizonaguide.com and w~avisitphoenix.com. The major gay publication is Echo, xwvw:echomag.com Always remember to have fun when traveling, meet new people and talk to everyone! CALIFORNIA MARRIAGE LICENSE INFORMATION By Donald Pile and Ray Williams Donald and Ray were legally married in Palm Springs, California, June 17th which was the first day that same-sex marriage became legal in California. "Ihey have been a gay couple for 37 years) As of June 17, 2008 the marriage laws in California were changed to allow same-sex couples to marry as well as heterosexual couples. There is no difference in the forms with the exception that in the same-sex marriage forms, they list "Party A" and "Party B" rather than bride and gr0bm. You can apply for a marriage license at nearly dl the county court houses in the state. A couple of counties have refused to marry same-sex couples and they are not allowed to marry heterosexual couples as well. A special note: For same-sex couples to be married in the State of Massachusetts, they have to be legal residents of that state. In California, there is NO residency requirement. Anybody from any state in the country can now be married legally in California. If your ID does not contain your full legal name you must provide a certified copy of your birth certificate or a Social Security card. Otherwise, a driver’s license is sufficient for proof. If you have been divorced within the last two years you must bring in a certified copy of your divorce decree. Both parties must appear to apply for and pick up their marriage license. Different counties xvithin the State of California charge different prices and they vary from $55.00 to $70.00. They accept cash and debit cards only. The license is valid for 90 days from the date of issue. The license is typed tip and given to you in about 30 minutes. Should you desire to get married right there, they offer a civil marriage ceremony right at the court house. Naere is a fee of $35.00~ You are taken into a private room and the clerk as well as a wimess that they will provide in case you. don’t take some with you goes thru the marriage ceremony. The ending remarks are "In as much as Donald and Raymond have thus consented together in marriage, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the State of California as a Deputy Comrnissioner of Civil Marriages for the County of l~verside, I now pronounce you to be united in marriage. "AND TRUST US, IT JUST DOESN’T GET ANY BETTER THAN THAT MOMENT! After 37 years together, dais was one of the finest sentences that we have ever heard! You do not need a blood test or health certificate. There is no waiting period to get married. The entire process from start to finish takes less than one hour. Some couples prefer to get the license and then plan a wedding afterwards in a few days. Eight states allow same-sex marriage alternatives: In Connecticut, New Hampshire, New Jersey and Vermont, same-sex couples can enter civil unions and receive the same statelevel benefits and responsibilities conveyed in traditional marriages. Similarly, Oregon residents can register as domestic partners and receive all state marital rights. Couples in Hawaii, Maine and Washington state can register as domestic partners and receive many of the most important marital rights. Suggestion: Don’t fly out for the weekend expecting to get married. The Court Houses are open Monday thru Friday only. What you need... Both parties must provide valid photo ID August 2008 �EUREKA SPRINGS SUMMER ,E, UREKA SPRINGS, AR;__ Eureka Springs is gearing up for its Summer Diversty Festivel to be held August 1,2,3, 2008 ~vith many events, shows and pool parties planned, including the now famous PDA in die park, where all persons are invited to show "Public Display of Affection" for their spouse or partner. Eureka Springs welcomed its 200th gay couple (Visiting from Chicago) to register under the domestic partnership registration law. History was made on May 14, 2007 when the Eureka Springs City Council unanimously approved the "Domestic Partner Registration (DPR). Although the document does not entitle couples legal benefits as in a marriage, it does act as a wonderful validation and acknowledgement of their relationship and commitment to each other. This was a first for Arkansas and hopefully, will inspire other registries throughout the state and beyond. Persons from anT0¢here may register in Eureka Springs.’ Visit www.diversitypride.com or ww~v.eurekapride.com for more information. AUg 1, 2008: Welcome Mixer at Marquee’s 7 - 9 PM (open for dinner 4 - 10pm) Aug 1, 08: Miranda Ray Performs at Jaek’s Place 10:00 PM Aug 1, 08: Miranda Meridian Performs at Lumberyard 8:00 PM Aug 1, 08: Diversity Bikers Brunch & Fun Run. Iron Horse Stables at 10 AM then ride to the PDA Aug 2, 08: PDA in Basin Park 12 Noon Aug 2, 08: Bear Pool Party. 1 PM - ? at Tradewinds Aug 2, 08: Diversity Bikers Raid the Pool Party & Fun Run starting at Planner Hill Parking Lot 3:30 - 5 PM Aug 2, 08: Miranda Ray Performs at Jack’s Place 10:00 PM Aug 2, 08: Miranda Meridian Performs at Lmnberyard 8:00 PM ALSO: Aug 1-2, 08: Yards & Yards of Yard Sales Aug 3, 08: Lucky 13 Cinema: Double feature "Across the Universe" & "Wizard ofOz", music of"Dark Side of the Moon" www.metrostarnews.com NetroSTAR 15 �by Jack Fertig AUGUST 2008 "Keep your balance, Aries!" The most troublesome planets are stirring up discord - Mars opposing Uranus, Mercury opposing Neptune. Looking to Eris for the best aspects is like borrowing sugar from Lucrezia Borgia! With everyone shooting their mouths off and facts getting jumbled, focus on careful listening and discernment. ARIES (March 20 -April 19): Struggles at work might make you feel you’re on the wrong team. What’s easier to change - your job or your attitude? Time out, playful relaxation, and self-care (massage? acupuncture?) are needed to keep your balance. TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): A~guments at home need to be settled to avoid tension that can screw you up at work. Friends who want to play may keep you from what you really find entertaining and relaxing. Take time at home to contemplate your goals in work and in life. GEMINI (May 21 - June 20): You probably can’t avoid arguments this week, but you canopick and choose them. Remember the simple, obvious rules: logic has nothing tO do with religion or sex; authorities should be criticized with extreme diplomacy and care; and friends who will forgive anything are the best to hang with! CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Arguments about sex can come up easily, especially if you’re unclear about what you really want. You need some guidance, a new philosophical or spiritual perspective. Explore those intangibles, and the touchy-feely will be easier to work out. The Ledo, Oklahoma City @ Angles, Oklahoma City LEO (July 23 - August 22): Your partner (or Jack of one) seems especially aggravating now, and your sexual needs are not being propedy met - probably because you are at some level reassessing them. A good political argument may somehow kick your priorities and Needs into better focus. ......... VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Make a list of your worries. Cross off the ones you can’t do anything about, then list the steps you can take to deal with the others. A partner’s input may be helpful. An amorous retreat will be even more so. .... LIBRA (September 23 - October 22):.Nob0d~ else will fix what’s bothering you, so what ape _you_ doing about it? Big as some problems are, you can make a difference! You could even bring friends into a volunteer effort as if it were a social event. @ Bamboo Lounge, Tulsa The Copa, Oklahoma City SCORPIO ((~ctober 23 - November 21): "(our playful jabs at social critique can get you a reputation. Will hosts send you invitations due to real affection or out of self-defense? Focus that acuity on working more effectively, and you could accomplish a lot! SAGITTARIUS (Nov.ember 22 - December 20): Arguments aren’t as likely to show that you’re right as much as that you insist on "being right." A little humility and listening can go a long way. Better yet, playful word games are preferable to serious debate. CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19): Arguments about sex, sexuality, and gender issues can easily get out of hand. If you must react as if your mother’s honor were at stake, think of how she’d want you to be civil in your debate. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): Sexual values and tastes change with age and experience. Although that’s normal, staying in sync with your partner may be the big challenge! Communication is always the key. Be open to exploring differences as well as common ground. PISCES (February 19 - March 19): Your ideas for improvements at work are, um, intriguing. Discuss them with a colleague or two, allowing that they may be a bit off the wall. Still, they could be the seeds of much better ideas. Focus on efficiency and economy. @Club Majestic, Tulsa 16 MetroSTAR , @ Finishline, Oklahoma City August 2008 �Massachusetts may OK marriage for out-ofstarers Massachusetts’ legislature is considering repeal oi:a 1913 law that prohibits people from other states from getting married there if the marriage wouldn’t be allowed where they live. ’The law -- which stopped interracial couples who couldn’t marry in their own states t~¥om n~arrying in Massachusetts -- was resurrected aider Massachusetts legalized same-sex marriage in 2004. ~e speaker of the House, the president ofth~ Senate and Gov. Deva! Patrick all support the law’s repeal. U2S. Census Bureau won’t count married gays ~ae U.S. government will not count married gay couples in the 2010 censtts, the San Jose Mercury News reported July 12. Instead, same-sex couples who accurately report that they are married will have their response tabulated by the Census Bureau as if they had checked "unmarried partners." Same-sex marriage is legal in California and Massachuset:tS[ in addition, New Yorkers who m~r~ in those states or abroad are recognized as married in New York state. Brot,~ers & Sismrs actors Matthew Rhys (who plays gay character Kevin Walker) and Sally Field. GLAAD photo repre.sentations. Lifetime and MTV ranked adequate. A&E, Spike, TBS, TNT m~d USA received failing grades. The ful! report is at glaad.org/media/nri/ NRI_2008.pdf. "Barack believes that ,ve must fight for a world as it should be. A ,vorld where together we work to reverse discriminatory laws like D.O.M.A. (Defense of Marriage Act) and Don’t Ask Don’t Tell," Mrs. Obama said, addressing an audience of 250 people at a fundraiser for the Democratic National Committee. ~ae Mercury News said the Census Bureau’s decision was based on the federal Defense of i~{arriage Act (DOMA) "and other mandates." DOMA, signed into law by President Bill Clinton in 1996, states, in part: "In determining the meaning of any Act of Congress, or of any ruling, regulation, or interpretation of the various administrative bureaus and agencies of the United States, the word ’marriage’ means only a leg~d union between one man and one woman ,as husband and wife, and the word ’spouse’ refers only to a person of the opposite sex ~vho is a husband or a wife." Gary Gates of the Williams Institute, a think tank at the University of California Los Angeles Law School, told the newspaper that the bureau’s decision "goes against everything the census stands fo,:" "It’s a systematic hiding not only of married gay couples, but gay couples as families, which I would argue is a fundamentally political decision," Gates said. METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES ~ Transsexnal Richards Rev Steve T. Uric Spirit of Christ MCC 2902 E 2® Street Joplin, MO 64804 417-529-8480 Worship Saturdays at t0:00 AM Community Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM MCC 0fthe Living Spring received failing grades for their 6 percent and 4 percent of programming hours with GLBT images. Of the 10 cable networks evaluated, FX, HBO and Showtime each received a grade of good, with FX leading with 45 percent of programming hours featuring GLBT www.metrostarnews.com t7 Elk Street Eureka Spdngs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays at 6:00 PM Have a God filled and BleSSed Day! ~et~oSTAR 17 �\ KiNG OF MASSAGE GFeBt Touch Man to Man F.tl Body Massage 2 hands or 4 hands available out calls (405) Now Hiring Male & Female Keller Williams Realty Chuck Breckenridge ~rhether buying or selling I’ll work hard for you. Freelance Reporters Needed For Oklahoma City, Tulsa and all area’s Qualifications to stamews@sbcglobal.net or mail to: The Star, PO Box 581718 Tulsa, OK 74158 Creating Community for People ~iving H~V/A~DS 50’I c (3) No~: P~ofit ()rgaaizafion Metro Star Chssfieds Our House, Too offers a variety of activities for people who are HtV+ and or living with AiDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves. We invite anyone who ¯~/ould like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail hardsmmjr@yahoo.com. [] 2" square ON SALE! for as litde as $33 per issue. Email: starnews@sbcglobal.net offer good until 8/16/08 918.835.7887 SAVE & FILL YOUR PIGGY [] grWW.METROSTARNEWS.COM 18 www.rnetr0starnews.c0m �Support those who support us. Their ads allow us to distribute your community news FREE to you. OPENARMS YOUTH PROJECT DOWNTOWN PLAZA of TULSA 17 West 7th Street Tulsa, OK 918-585-5898 www:downtownplazatulsa.com HABANA INN 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-528-2221 ~v.~vw.habanainn.com KELLY KIRBY, CPA 4815 S. HARVARD, SUITE 424 Tulsa, OK * 918-747-5466 Certified Public Accountant ANGLES 21!7 NW 39th St. Oklahoma City, OK vavw.anglesclub.com BAMBOO LOUNGE 7204 E. PINE Tulsa, OK 918-836-8700 wv~#abambooloungetulsa.com CLUB MAJESTIC 124 N. BOSTON Tulsa, OK 918-584-9494 wvw.dubmajestictulsa.com FINISHLINE 2200 NxY-/- 39TH EXPRESSWAY Otdahoma City, OK 405-525-{3730 xwvw.habanainn.com THE COPA 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESS"gAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com 2015 -B S. Lakewood Tulsa, OK 74112 918-838-7104 www. openarmsproject.org OUR HOUSE, TOO 203 N. Nogales Ave Tulsa, OK 74127 918-585-9552 KING OF MASSAGE In or Out Calls Oldahoma City, OK 405-314-3898 JUDY G. PHOTO’S Tulsa, OK judygphotos@sbcglobal.net 918-743-8636 CENTURY 21 GOLD CASTLE 3627 N\V EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405-840-2106 www.c21 goldcastle, com CHUCK BRECKENRIDGE Keller vvrilliams Realty Tulsa, OK 918-706-1887 GAY BRADY HEIGHTS-Tulsa New and Historic Homes for Sale and Rent For Info: w ~,av. gaybradyheights tulsa.com GUSHER’S RESTAURANT 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 Located inside Habana Inn DALLAS CVB Dallas, TX www.glbtdallas.com THE LEDO 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.corn HOPE TESTING CLINIC 3540 E. 31st Tulsa, OK 800-535-2437 Oklahoma’s HIV!STD Hotline SPIPdT OF CHRIST MCC 2902 E. 20TH STREET, Joplin, MO * 479-529-8480 Service Saturday 9:30 AM MCC of the LIVING SPRING !7 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays 6pro MCC UNITED 1623 N. Maplewood, Tulsa, OK 9t8-838-1715 www.mcctutsa.org L N÷troSTAR 19 www.metrostarnews.com �Advertisement paid for by friends OfRon Marlett. OKLAHO ESE "I’m Ron Marlett and I’m running for State House District 84 because I want a chance to bring about change that really matters for my fellow Oklahomans: good jobs, affordable healthcare, a quality educational system and real freedom and equality." I NEED YOUR HELP TO WIN THIS ELECTION, WE CAN NIAKE ~T HAPPEN! need money and volunteers! Ron Marlett P.O. Box 854 Bethany, OK 73008 (405) 640-2069 www.ronmarlettforhousedistrict84.com � Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data magazine Text Any textual data included in the document WWW.METROSTARNEWS.COM "WE DELIVER DIVERSITY" From the Editor TULSA, OK __ You can still call us "The Star" although we have a new name, the Metro Star. Tiae Ozarks Star is no longer. With our primary focus on Oklahoma, we decided the Ozarks name was no longer appropriate for our publication. The State of Oklahoma and our t~vo major metropolitan areas, OHahoma City and Tulsa, will continue to be our main focus. The emerging Oklahoma cities of Lawton, McAlester, Ardmore, Muskogee and Enid also have diverse communities that are becoming more active. McPride in McAlester has made a big difference in that area. We will continue to serve them as well. Some believe nevcs print publications have no future, that electronic media has made the newspaper obsolete. I believe there is need for both. To accommodate those thousands who visit our website, we upload our entire paper each month, an exact duplicate of the printed version. Many, including myself to ¯ think Maybe you noticed we also have a new look. We’ve changed from a magazine m a newspaper format, which will allow us more print space and to increase circulation at a lower increase in cost than the more costly magazine style. Those staples were very expensive! x~lith the added space we now can report more on national and international news that normally you don’t find in the mainstream media. We will continue to sp~ out on eqt~ rights issues and, promote those leaders and organizations who openly support equality Star Media, Ltd., publisher, was formed in Joplin, Missouri in 2003. Vie distributed our first edition New Year’s Eve that year. It was a black & white Readers Digest size of only eight pages and printed from my home printer. We printed less than a 1000 copies because the printer ran out of ink. There were only 4 paid advertisers. XXre called it "Ozarks Pride". We continued to print on my old Dell printer for several months with my dear friend Sissy Blanchard folding and stapling from the dining room table. Because people confused us with a "Pride Organization" we changed the name to the Ozarks Star. Tnat soon was referred to simply as "The Star". We moved to Tulsa in December 2004. Tulsa Pride~sets new p~entfor major events new ~home for Pride The qnal issue oftbe Ozarks Star Magazine, July 2008 Our distribution area in the beginning was Joplin, Springfield, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Pittsburg and Tulsa. To increase our readership we expanded to Oklahoma City, Kansas City, and Wichita and recendy discovered a former Tulsan who owns Napoleon’s Itch Night Club in New Orleans that wanted to distribute "~e Star so he and fellow Oklahomans in New Orleans could keep up on our local news. Now that we’ve made the transition and I’ve filled you in on our past we hope you enjoy the Metro Star. With a new name, a new design and an optimistic outlook we will go forward. Thanks to those ofyou who have supported us in the past and we welcome those who will support us in the future. Sincerely, Editor in Chief Wodd Pdde-Pages 9 &13 AUGUST 1, 2008 NEHART "I’m not sure what homophobic means:’ Q ote from CNN Interview! By Metro Star staff Oklahoma County Commissioner Bi ’eni Rinehart ~om District 2, apracticingpublic homo ~hobe OKI2kHOMA CITY, OK__ Oklahoma County Commissioner Brent Rinehart appeared on CNN’s American Morning July 21, to defend his anti-gay comic book that he is sending out to registered Republicans in his district. Wher asked if his comic book took mudslinging to a brand new low, Rinehart replied, "Well, one person’s mudslinging, I guess, is another man’s issues. Here in the state of Oklahoma especially here in Oklahoma County, I believe that the homosexual agenda is an issue in this campaign. I thought that the cartoon book was a novel approach to telling a story for the last three, 3 1/2 years." Rinehart has been charged by Attorney General Drew Edmondson, who is depicted in the book, with illegal campaign financing for his 2004 campaign. He faces trial in September. CNN ROBERTS: In fact, let me just highlight in a little bit more detail your attack on Attorney General Drew Edmondson here as depicted in this comic book. You’ve got him holding a sign that says, "Gay rights now." And you write in the balloon over a character here, "You remember that Drev¢ Edmondson is on record to force the Boy Scouts to accept homosexuals as scout leaders, a pedifiles [sic] dream come true." Tile Attorney General has said of this comic, ’~ drowning man tends to thrash about." And the question is being raised= is this some desperate and weird attempt at payback against the attorney general because he has filed these charges .............................Continued on Page-6 2 www.metrostarnews.com New Arena Prepares 5h ne New L ght ByJoey D. When walldng the halls of the nearly completed BOK Center in dmvntown Tulsa, it is nearly impossible to be awed by just how massive the new 18,000 seat events center is. The building, ~vhich is o~en described by passers by as either a space ship or a meringue pie, has become a true addition tO the Tt~lsa skyline, with the recently added lit "BOK Center" signs. "This building is truly unique to Tulsa," says Travis Horton ofTulsa Vision Builders, a joint effort of Flintco and Manhattan Construction Companies. "In keeping with Tulsa’s precedent, a large portion of the project’s budget and efforts went to ensuring that the building’s architecture and appearance were truly unique." Located at the corner of 3rd and Denver, the BOK Center is literally a shining example of downtmvn revitalization. "When Pelli (the building’s architect) designed this building, he wanted to incorporate light into it. There are windows everDvhere in here. Even if it’s only a sliver, no matter where you are in here you can see a window? Another feature incorporating light into th~ building that most people may never think about is the terrazzo flooring that runs through out the concourse. According to Horton, the 70% mother-of-pearl mixture was purposely chosen by the architect to make the building shine. "Everything that has been done in here has had his approval. Everythingyou see from the ceiling panels to the stripes ofpaint on the walls have been approved by him. He has a vision to integrate light into this building,.but also to m~e it feel very open;’ said HOrton. ~ae most noticeable and unique element of the building is its sweeping glass "icon wall? "If Pelli has a signature masterpiece, this would have to be it," Horton says of the massive grid of steel and reinforced glass. "I can’t think of anything out there like it that is on this scale? While innovative and impressive, Horton also reassures that the wall is safe. "They have impact tested it with two by?burs and even subjected the model to jet-engine force winds to make sure it will hold? Just inside the glass shield is the building’s main promenade and grand staircase, and grand they are. The open aired promenade allmvs guests to appreciate the magnitude of the building and to bask in the art deco splendor of the historic downtmvn buildings that surround it. The Grand Staircase, raising from the ground level to the main bowl searing, offers event patrons a grand path to their seats, almost on a royal scale. The arena, which is being constructed with funds from the Vision 2025 bond issue, is on target for its grand opening August 30. The ribbon cutting and open house will be followed the next day by a community choir, starring Sand Springs native and Broadway performer Sam Harris. The first major act, The Eagles, will take the arena stage September 6, followed in the coming months by such acts as Celine Dion, American Idols Live, Kenny Chesney and Carrie Under~vood (just to nan~e a few). For event updates visit www.bokcenter.com. www.metrostarnews.com ~÷t~’oSTAR 3 Ok!ahomans for Equality opens new exhibit, Treegpeak, at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center TULSA, OK__ The Dennis R. Neill Equality Center art gallery will host it’s month~¢ First Thursdays Meet’the-artist Reception from 6- 9pro, Thursday, August 7, for the opening of its August exkibit TreeSpeak, featuring the,vorks ofphotographer Shelly Ledford, and painter Dawn DeMott. ~ne TreeSpeak Exhibit is being held specifically in August to acknowledge the Katrina events in New Orleans and to celebrate the rebirth of the city. The works in the exhibit will be New Orleans focttsed. Shelly Ledford is a native Tulsan and graduated from Northeastern State University with a degree in Literature. She has held a variety of photographic positions including staffphotographer for Newspaper Printing Corporation, MetLife and John Blanca Modeling agency and currently owns Renaissance Photography. In constant search for places xvhich vibrate a high level ofuniversal energy, her ~vork reflects areas such as New Orleans concentrating on the above ground cemeteries, swamps and bayous in and around New Orleans, Sedona, Italy, Greece, Austria, England and Indonesia. Quotable Quotes In a passionate address to the Democratic National Committee’s Gay and Lesbian Leadership Council, Mrs. Obama delivered a rottsing call-to-equality and put her husbas~d on record as a fighter for the full equality of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans. "Barack believes," she said, "that we must fight for the world as it should be, a world where xve ,vork together to reverse discriminatory laws." Invoking "those who marched and bled and died, from Selma to Stonewall," Michelle implored Democrats to continue those early crusaders’ march "in the pursuit of a more perfect union." Sunday Services @ 11:00 AM m~’~ ].623 N. Maplewood Tulsa, OK MCC United A Metropolitan CommuniW Church www.mcctulga.org Expressions Community Fellowship Relocates OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (PR) __ Expressions Community Fellowship ha~s relocated their facilities to the Landsbrook Event Center, formerly The Church of the Servant, 5909 NW Expressway, Otdahoma City, OK 73132. It is west of MacArthur on Northwest Expressway. "~e new facility has recently been remodeled and provides many new ~vonderful amenities as well as plenty of room to grow and launch our Children’s Ministr,,~’ said Pastor Neill Spurgin. The Church meets ever), Sunday at 2:30pm. For more information contact them at (405) 761-1878 or email expressionsokc@yahoo. com. DBAT Will Host DiversityJob Fair TULSA, OK (PR) __ The Diversity Business Association ofTulsa (DBAT), a program of Oklahomans for Equality, is hosting a Diversity Job Fair on Tuesday, September 16th from 1:00 to 5:00pm at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center, 621 E. 4th Street in downtown Tulsa. The event will bring together lgbt job seekers and lgb{-friendly employers in a safe and comfortable environment, allowing for open dialogue and alleviating fears of discrimination. The Diversity Job Fair offers a unique opportunity for diversity-conscious employers to access the wealth of skilled and talented members of the lgbt community. Additionally, job seekers are given an unprecedented connection to companies that are lgbt-friendly. Employers are asked to have their area set up by 12:30pm the day of the event. DBAT will provide a table and t-wo chairs. Refreshments will also be provided. The Equality Center has wi-fi internet access. For more information or if your company is interested in participating in the job fair, contact Susan Hartman at dbat@okeq.org or call 918-698-2977. Congrattflations to the new Miss Gay Okdahoma America 2008, Adrienne Fischer and 1st Alternate Shantel Mandalay. Tulsa Couple to Marry In San Diego. Photo: Charles Johnston and Kelly Kirby TULSA, OK__ Kelly W’ayne Kirby and Charles Stanfill Johnston ofTulsa announced they will be legally married on Saturday, August 9, 2008. The wedding will take place at Point Loma Lighthouse Bluff, Cabrillo National Monument, in San Diego, California. Officiating will be Rev. Doctor David Downing, retired clergyman of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). David was one of Kelly’s youth pastors in Kansas when Kelly was a teenager. "Vge are taking five of our six kids (ages 21-26) and their significant others, my morn, and Kelly’s two sisters. Several friends are joining us in San Diego for the wedding’; Charles said. The couple will be staying at the Park Manor Suites Hotel, across the street from Balboa Park, and will host a reception there after the ceremony. " he Hot Young Hollywood Party" to benefit R.A.I.N. OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (PR) _The party ~vill be held at Angles OKC, August 8th and will include fashion shmvs by Riot Rocket and GLAMNERD. The highlight of the evening will be a continuous raffle ofluxury gifts *including a MARCJACOBS bag* donated by some of the hippest restaurants and shops in the metro. Keeping xvith the "Hollywood" theme we will have a red carpet and sponsor board for everyone to have their picture taken with. Our sponsors include; Tony Foss, Iguana, Velvet Monkey Two, 1492, Nova, Tom &Jerrys, Blue7, Duo.. "This event was nay idea of a great give back to this wonderful organization and its tireless stalk"; said Kendel R. Powers, producer of the fund-raiser. All proceeds from the event to benifit R.A.I.N. (Regional Aids Interfaith Network) 4 August 2008 Room Ra~es From A~About Our Su#es = High N~ wv,-~v.metrostamews.corn P~et~oSTAR 5 against you for campaign irregularities for 2004?" The comic book shows a couple discussing Rinehart’s trials and tribulations as an Oklahoma County Commissioner, how Rinehart strives to accomplish better roads and bridges, lower taxes, and promote family values but is thwarted by public officials supported by Satan. The comic books, which is sure to be a classic in the annals of political history for the GLBT community and Oklahoma, can be downloaded from http://do~vnloads.newsok. com/documents/rinehartcartoon.pdf Zhe purpose for publishing the 16-page book was to highlight his commitment to destroying the queers. ~q~en asked whether it’s relevant to his election, Rinehart insists that it is, because we are in a cultural war. When asked whether he’s homophobic, Rinehart played (real) dumb: I’m not even sure as to what homophobic means. But let’s just keep in mind that we are in a cultural war, not just here in the state of Oklahoma but nationwide." CNN journalist, John Roberts does not seem amused. You can tell when he does a little grammar check: "We should also point out that the word pedophile is spelled wrong in the two times that’s it’s used in this comic book". BRENT RINEHART: "OK. Again, it’s getting a message out. It’s telling a story" of hmv I got to where I’m at the last 3 to 3 1/2 years. No~a; no one has ever - now people can talk about the homosexual aspects of this in regards to how they’re depicted but no one has ever said anything about the truthfulness ofmy cartoon book. How it exposes Drew Edmondson for his true agenda, and how it exposes others here in county government for their true agenda. No one and you know, you can attack the spelling of pedophile. I have to be honest with you, I don’t necessarily care if I misspelled it or not", T!~e following are quotes from a few of our other elected officials. "It’s extremely pathetic and very bigoted." Oklahoma County Sheriff John Whetsel ’Tve really encouraged him on more than one occasion to get professional help. He really, needs it". Oklahoma County Assessor Leonard Sullivan "It’s typical Rinehart subterfuge to detract from his poor job performance and likely criminal misdeeds". Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Jim Roth Once again Oklahomans has been embarrassed by someone we elected to office. Will this newest outrage provoke us to seriously look at who we vote for? q-his election year will soon tell. We must take the time to evaluate a candidate’s ability to represent us and to support equality for all citizens of this state. Many are just not capable. CYNDI SHOWS COLOURS "Be sure and vote--your voice counts, and it’s more important who our ,p,resident is than who is our next American Idol. Cyndi Lauper. By Victor Gorin glndy Bell ofErasure and Cyndi Lauper at Oklahoma City True Colours Taut: OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__ OnJune 23 the Pride Weekend in Oklahoma City was especially honored when the True Colours Tour came to the Oklahoma City Zoo Amphitheater. Despite the high heat of the afternoon, the show rocked with opening act Girl in a Coma. The show then mellowed into disco heaven with the 80’S sounds ofAndy Bell ofErasure, bringing back nostalgic memories of nights past vcith some ofhis greatest tunes, "Blue Savannah," "A little Respect; and bringing many to their feet with his dance classic "Chains ofLove." Mr. Bell did a duet with Cyndi Lauper before music took an intermission ,vith comedienne Margaret Cho whose ba~vdy humor extolled what’s good about gay men and bad about the Bush administration. Then Joan Jett showed she still had her stuff, performing classics older than many ofthe young people dancing in the audience. V,rhen she lead community singing with her signature tune "I love Rock and Roll," ( a 1982 classic) there was no shortage of rockers who enthusiastically knew the words. This follmved with the B-52’s, the wildly fun icons ofthe 80’s ,vho got their name from a hairdo named after a bomber. The energy ran vdld as the audience raved to their timeless numbers including "Rock Lobster," "Private Idaho" "Roam" and course "Love Shack" which predictably brought the house dmvn. All ofthis vcas held together by the perfect emcee, Carson Kressley ( famous from television’s QEeer Eye for the Straight Guy) whose wisecracks (induding flirtations with the hunky security guards) witticisms and audience interaction kept the show rolling and lively between acts. Last but certainly not least was the dassy campy icon who epitomized an era, Cyndi Lauper, who not only has made her mark in music history but also as a gay rights activist. Opening with an electrified Statue ofLiberty torch and the song "Change of Heart," she went through her many hits, climaxing ofcourse with the timeless anthem’Girls just want to have Fun." OkEq Decries Anti-Gay Vandalism in East Tulsa TULSA, OK (PR), July 16th_Oklahomans for Equality deplores the vandalism directed at Robert Stoder, an openly gay resident of east Tulsa. Such intimidation highlights the urgent need for federal and state hate crimes legislation protecting lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LBGT) people. Over the last week, anonymous vandals have twice attacked Stoder’s propert): The assailants set Stotler’s truck on fire and spray painted "Gay Must Go" on the charred vehicle. "No Oklahoman should be victimized because of his or her sexual orientation;’ asserts Freddy Owens, Executive Director ofOklahomans for EqualiD: "All of Oklahoma’s lesbian, gay; bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) citizens should be free to live openly and safely. It is far past time that our state legislature amended our hate crimes la~vs to include the LGBT community:’ In 2006, the FBI reported 7,722 hate crimes across the US, a 7.8% increase over 2005. About halfwere due to racial hatred; 1,195 of the crimes - representing 15.5% - were due to bias against LGBT people. 79 of the hate crimes were reported in Oklahoma, but the state hate crimes law does not cover sexual orientation or gender identity and expression. Earlier this year, state lawmakers introduced four different bills attempting to strengthen and broaden the Oklahoma statute. None of the bills received a committee hearing. Oklahoma remains one of only 17 states whose hate crimes laws do not protect LGBT citizens. Las Vegas Nights and Lights! (aka- Drag Q een Bingo) Bingo like your mother never played.,. This annual event and fur~draiser for Our House Too will be held August 8th at the Cain’s Ballroom. Female impersonators will bring Las Vegas excitement for this, the fifth year, beginning at 8:00p.m. and ending at midnight. There will be glamorous costumes and prizes. A live auction ~vill be held and, of course, bingo! Female inapersonators will perform glittering numbers from Las Vegas shows to entertain the crowd. Our House Too is a nonprofit organization serving to eliminate the social isolation of people living with HIV and AIDS in the Tulsa area. In addition to providing monthly activities and holiday celebrations, Our House Too offers food baskets and a toiletry and household pantry. Tickets for Las Vegas Nights and Lights are $10 in advance or $15 at the door per person. For advanced ticket sales call 585-9552 or 698-9997. Directory ofLocal Animal Shelters Tulsa Shelter 918-669-6299 Broken Arrow 918-259-8311 OKC 405 297 3104 Muskogee 918 686 7297 Stillwater 405 372 0334 Coweta 918-486 2137 Siloam Springs 479 524 6535 Claremore 918 341 1260 Sand Springs 918 246 2543 Jenks 918 299 6311 Owasso 918-272-4965 Sapulpa 918 227 2722 Norman 405 321 6725 Collinsville 918 371 1000 Courtesy ofwwv.labrescue.net 6 ~®t~’oSTAR August 2008 Wockner News Service LI.& Senate votes to repeal HI¥ travel/immigration ban Key The U.S. Senate voted 80q6 on July 16 to repeal the nation’s ban on HIV-positive foreign visitors and immigrants. Sens. John Kerry, D-Mass., and Gordon Smith, R-Ore., secured a provision to repeal the ban in the Senate’s legislation to reauthorize PEPFIMR, the President’s EmergenW Plan for AIDS Relief. The measure now moves to a House-Senate conference committee, then goes to President George "\g~. Bush, who is eager to see PEPFAR re-~\tnded. "We applaud the Senate l:or rejecting this unjust and sweeping policy that deems HIV-positive individuals inadmissible to the United States," said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. "We call on the leaders of the House and Senate to retain the Kerry-Smith provision in conference and ensure it is included in the fin!l legislation sent to the president’s desk." Schwarzenegger denounces effort to reban same-sex marriage California Gov. ArnoM Schwarzene~e,: Photo by Rex Wockner ABC, FX get high marks from GLAAD ABC and the FX cable network do the best job of representing gay Americans, the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation said July 14. GLAAD’s Network Responsibility Index tracks the quantity, quality and diversity of images of GLBT people on television. California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has strongly denounced the attempt to amend the California Constitution to re-ban same-sex marriage. San Diego offers gaywedding sweepstakes The San Diego Convention and Visitors Bureau is holding a contest to give away a six-day "dream vacation" to the city for a same-sex couple to get married. ~ae sweepstakes, which ends Aug. 1, is open to U.S. residents who are at least 25 years old. "’g~e’re celebrating the new laws allowing same-sex weddings in California," ConVis said on its ~’eb site. "Ever dreamed of being married in Paradise? In a short story, tell us why you should win the wedding vacation of your dreams in San Diego. The best story will win a trip that includes your marriage license, transportation, accommodations, dining and entertainment." "The HIV ban is ineffective, unnecessary, and Simply bad public health policy," said Rachel Tiven, executive director of Immigration Equality. "It is especially harmful to gay and lesbian families, who do not benefit from the waiver available to opposite’sex couples. The Senate’s change is welcome, and long overdue." PEPFAR will send $48 billion to Africa over the next five years to fight _AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis. Sen. Joseph Biden, D-Del., called the bill "the single most significant thing the president has done." Two policemen marry in Northern California Two male cops have gotten married in Northern California. Santa Rosa police officer Chris Mahurin, 25, and San ILafael police officer Alex Holm, 25, tied the knot June 20 at Paradise Ridge Winery in Santa Rosa. "It’s just a dream come true," Holm’s mother, Claire Ann Boyce, told the local Press Democrat newspaper. "It makes me feel like this generation is on its way to have what everyone should have." The state Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage May 15 and the weddings began on June 16. Appearing on TV’s Meet The Press on June 29, Schwarzenegger was asked: "You have a lot of propositions on the ballot again this fall. One of them wotfld mean a constitutional ban on gay marriages. Do you support that?" "No, not at all," Schwarzenegger replied. "As a matter of fact, I think the Supreme Court made a decision there. It was apparently unconstitutional to stop anyone from getting married. It’s like 1948, the interracial marriage, when the Supreme Court of California has, you know, decided it was unconstitutional and then later on the Supreme Court of the United States followed, I think 10 or ! 2 years later. So I tahink it is, it’s good that California lead -- is leading in this way." "I personally believe that marriage should be between a man and a woman," the governor added. "But at the same time I think that my, you know, belief, I don’t want to force on anyone else, so I think we should stay with the decision of the Supreme Court and move forward. There are so many other more important issues that we have to address in California. So I think to spend any time on this initiative I think is a waste of time." Desperate Housewives: Lane. ABCphoto ABC, wiffl shows like Brothers & Sisters, Desperate Housewives and Ugly Betty, received the highest marks of the five broadcast networks. NBC and Fox scored lowest. Among 10 of the highest-rated cable channels, FX aired the largest number of GLBTinclusive hours of original programming, while TNT offered the fewest. GLAAD examined all primetime programming -- 4,911 hours -- on the five major broadcast networks (ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox and The CW) from June 1, 2007, to May 31, 2008. The group also reviewed all original primetime programming -- 1,240 hours -- on the 10 cable networks. "Time and again we see that what people watch on TV shapes how they view and treat the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people around them," said GLAAD President Nell Giuliano. "ABC and FX are ... showing other networks that including images of our community can go hand in hand with critical and commercial success." At the beach in San Diegoi Photo by Rex tgockner The prize includes airline tickets; five nights at a plush hotel; dinners at five fancy restaurants; wine, cheese and chocolate tasting at an upscale venue; tickets to the renowned Old Globe Theatre; tickets to the GLBT Diversionary Theatre; "passports" to Balboa Park’s numerous museums; a massage at a swank spa; a wedding license; and tickets to Fashion Week. ~ae ceremony was conducted by gay state Assemblyman Mark Leno, D-San Francisco, chief sponsor of the same-sex marriage bill that t~vice passed the state Legislature only to be vetoed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. The California Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage May 15 and the ruling took effect June 16. It was not the first time Schwarzenegger had denounced the proposed amendment, but it was the first time he has done so on national television. Each of the 6,151 hours ofTV was reviewed for any on-screen GLBT representations, and networks were assigned a grade of excellent, good, adequate or failing. ABC and The CW rated good, with 24 percent and 21 percent of their primetime programming hours inclusive of GLBT representations. CBS rated adequate, with 9 percent. NBC and Fox .....continued Page-17 San Diego’s Balboa Park. Photo by Rex ~Vockner See www.sandiego.org/pridetobe ............More U. S. Nexvs page 17 www.rnetrostarnews.com ~÷troSTAR 7 Photo by: Bill Gaddis 0 More summer sipping. ~~ere in midsummer, I find that I am enjoying lighter meals with more white wines over reds. Lately, my favorites include a diverse variety from many parts of the world. It’s been so hot that all I wanna do is relax by the pool/s~vim & sip some wine. Here are some wines other than Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc that embody the laid backness ofsummer. Mandra Rossa Fiano/Sicilia 2006 The Fiano grape comes frora the island of Sicily, and, taken a gold medal at the International Wine Challenge 2007, this botde was named as ’Great Value White Wine of the Year; Here is a medium bodied wine ~vith a fresh, floral nose. "Ihe finish has a taste ofsucculent pear and ripe melons. Bongiovanni Arneis 2006 ItS hard to find sonaething that Piedmont produces in a xvhite wine that’s just as exceptional as those big Barolos and Barbarescos you read about all the time. However, one of the notable exceptions can be found in the white grape, Arneis. This wine comes from the Langhegrowing zone in Piedmont. Bright pear flavors are the hallmark ofthis wine. Zeveri Muller Thurgau 2006 This is a 100% Muller Thurgau from Trentino’s Valle di Cerebra district in Northern Italy. The fruit is sourced from five single vineyards. The grapes are gently crushed and then macerated at cold temperatures. This is a wine of finesse, Sineann Pinot Gris 2007 and elegance. At the palate it’s Sharp ~ Torbreck VCoodcutter’s Semillon great finish oflight spices 2007 will become even years ofageing. C- Ken Forrester Petit Chenin Blanc 2007 Dr. Loosen Riesling ~ 0 Michd ~d Vouvray This lighdy sweet, low-alc6h 8 5 percent) " _ !--ln~o as al"ways, ~I :say ~o to vour ~avorl" te wl"ne Dr. Loosen Bros. German RJ , ngf~om Mo, shop, ask~ti0n~~’nd p(,rchase a bottle or Saar-Ruwer is ideal for casual mmmertime two:~laare[some t~oo.a ~.wi.ne w.ir.e rr.leno.s a.no quaffing. This wine has a creamy texture with : cnecac tins out for yourself. flavors ofhoney, apples, peaches;aa~,d miner,s. Pair with spicy grilled chicken or ~’i food[ [ St. Amant Verdelho2005 This exotic Portuguese white varietal is a new D’ wine for this California vineyard. It’s a full bodied wine that shmvs tropical fruit flavors that This writer also bar tends and hosts wine & really come alive on your palate. ;" WfooindeeEvennthtsuksinaoswtsnoifnTtuolswan. as the Garci Grande Verdejo 2006 F ..... References include: the ~IBC’s ofwine byJames Laube/www. tom me l~ueoa region m ~pam, tins wine , shows a crisp green apples flavor/a must for www.FoodandV~ne.com serious smnmer sipping. " "Www.Wikipedia.org I~O~ ’ With Donald This months recipe courtew Phoenix, Arizona *One ofthe many desserts at the restaurant" Ingredients: The Pesto: 1/2 bunch ofbasil (leaves only) 1/3 cup ex. Virgin olive oil Handfifl offresh pinoli nuts 1/4 cnp grated Parmigiana (Reggiana or Granaonly) 1 dove garlic smashed pinch ofsalt Pasta: (~ recommend fresh pasta only) ~OW gO: In a processor, place the basil, parmigiana and clove ofgarlic. Turn on the processor and slowly drizzle in the oil. Add the pinoli nuts and dash ofsalt. qqae paste should be creamy but never add too much oil ! In a 4 quart pot, boil the water for the pasta, (112 lg. for 2 persons max.) When the water boils, add 3 tal~lespoons ofsalt (preferably kosher.) Add the pa~’ta. If fresh, 2 *:ninutes will do. If you cannot find fresh pasta, dry pasta should take approximately 8 minutes. ~ou do NOT want to eat overcooked pasta. ~A1 dente," is the only way to enjoy it. Reserve about an 1/8 ofthe pasta xvater to add while tossing your pastawith the pesto sauce. Hint: Never add more oil - it doesn’t work. MACEDONIA CON LIMONE E ZUCCHERO (Fresh fruit salad With lemon juice, sugar and fresh mint) Ingredients: Berries are a good choice. Strawberries, blueberries, black and raspberries will always ~narry~vell. Melons, pears and app!es vary texture and release flavors that don t blend well with berries in this dish. Freshly squeeze 2 lemons and add 2 Tablespoons ofsugar and wisk together. Blend and toss with the berries, place in a dessert cup and garnish with fresh mint. 8 ~e~ ~oSTAR August 2008 Police stop first Cuban gay pride march Police in Havana stopped Cuba’s first gay pride parade before it could start June 25. But the details of what exactly took place are far fi’om clear. Reports from activists in Miami said the organizers were beaten and arrested around 10 a.m. as they arrived at Don Quixote Park at 23rd and J streets in the Vedado neighborhood. Fort Lauderdale’s Sun-Sentinel newspaper, however, said the march was canceled just before its start time by activist Mario Josd Delgado Gonz~itez, who appeared at the park to report that two other organizers had been arrested a day earlier. The Miami Herald, on the other hand, reported that nine organizers were detained the morning of the march, effectively aborting the event. The Spanish H-/eb site cubaencuentro.com quoted Delgado as saying: "Cuban homosexuals are victims of repression, we don’t enjoy rights. HA~at we are doing has as its objective the reclaiming of our rights. \re want equality of opportunity, equality of assembly, and that they dont expel its from parks, university centers, schools and work centers." With a theme of"You are not alone," the group had planned to walk to the Ministry of Justice and deliver demands to the government. They sought an end tO ~nti-gay violence and repression, an apology for the government’s having incarcerated gays in work camps decades ago, acknowledgment that gays have been fired because of their sexuality, and a review of cases where homosexuals have been jailed for an offense apparently known as "dangerous levels." At the march’s end, the group planned to proceed to a diplomatic residence to hold a press conference and stage a concert. Prior to the aborted mar&, Havana gay activist Aliomar Janjaque had told the Sun-Sentinel: "H/e want to raise awareness but we don’t want to provoke a wave of repression against the gay community. If there is a hostile reaction from the government, we will stage a much larger demonstration. "We will take to the streets." \[he Herald report said Janjaque was one of the individuals detained before the parade’s start. Wockner News Service Boy George banned from the U.S. The United States has refused to give British gay singer Boy George a visa to enter the country because he faces trial in Britain for allegedly chaining a male escort to a wall in his apartment. George had planned a summer U.S. tour and also hoped to perform a free concert for New York City’s Department of Sanitation, where he worked cleaning streets in 2006 as punishment for a drug offense. George has pleaded not guilty in the ongoing British case. Gays march in 3 Indian cities Lambda Istanbul eradicated by court Istanbul’s Beyoglu Court of First Instance has formally eradicated the gay group Lambda Istanbul, saying its existence contravened societal norms of morality and decency. Issuing its opinion this month in a case it decided in May, the court declared: "While members of the association are, as men and women, subject to Article 10 of the Constitution, which states that all persons are equal before the law; since there are no constitutional regulations regarding any other gender identity besides man and woman, forraing an association based solely on sexual orientation and gender identity is against the essence and the spirit of this Article, and the concept of equality aimed by it." The court continued: "It is observed that encouragement and propaganda, in all levels of the society, of the sexual orientation of the members of the association through organizing instructive programs are predominant in the association’s aims, and that these activities are likely to bring about a tyranny of a minority over the majority, which is against legal and constitutional regulations, and that this would jeopardize the rights and freedom of the family and children, as mentioned in Article 41 of the Constitution, and the rights and the freedom of the youth, as mentioned in Article 58 of the Constitution." The court proceeded to "dissolve" Lambda Istanbul, saying the European Convention on Human Rights allows obstruction of the right to association "to protect public morality and others’ freedom." The court also found that Lambda’s bylaws contravened a Turkish law that states, "No association may be founded for unlawful or immoral purposes." Lambda Istanbul has been in existence since 1993 and had been officially registered for two years. The group has continued to operate since the ruling and is appealing the decision to the Court of Cassation. Some ZOO0 GLBTpeople stagedpride marches in the Indian cities ofCalcutta, Bangalore and Delhifi~ne 29 -- thefirst such parades in the latter two cities. Delhiphoto by Sonali ~Gulati via Woc]ener ~Vews Some 2,000 GLBT people staged pride marches in the Indian cities of Calcutta, Bangalore and Delhi June 29 -- the first such parades in the latter two cities. About 500 people marched in Calcutta, 700 in the high-tech city of Bangalore and about 800 in Delhi. "When the pride started (in Delhi), there were about 100 people and it looked like we were outnumbered by the media and the police," said correspondent Vikram Doctor. "By the time we started (marching), though ... more and more people were coming along and getting attached to the end. I was walking back and forth, trying to help with media requests, and I got a sense of how large it was growing ~vhen I realized in addition to the main group carrying the flag upfront, there was a second large group behind with placards and doing dances -- and then a really large group of stragglers behind." Calcuttgs seventh parade focused heavily on Section 377, the Indian law that bans gay sex under penalty of up to 10 years in prison. A court case, now at a crucial phase, could see the law "read down" so it no longer applies to consensual adult gay sex. support from different stakeholders, media included, in their struggle to be free from discrimination, receive respect from all sections of society, and function as equal participants in a progressive and democratic India," organizers said at the parade’s conclusion. The Queer Media Collective issued a statement saying that GLBT people in India today find themselves at about the same point U~S. gays were when the first pride parades began in 1970. "LGBT people face a lot of harassment from the police," the group said. "Lesbians are subject to violence and even forced to commit suicide by their families. Gay men are blacks-nailed by organized rackets that involve members of the police. Bisexuals are denied the chance to express same-sex love and forced into opposite-sex marriages. Transgenders are routinely arrested and raped by the police. Same-sex couples who have lived together for years cannot buy a house together, have a joint bank account or will their property to each other without being challenged by their families .... Today in 2008, Queer Pride goes national as a sign that the time for national change has come." "India continues to stigmatize its transgender, kothi, hijra, gay, lesbian, bisexual and other communities of marginalized sexualities and genders," organizers said. "Section 377 ... encroaches upon a person’s democratic rights, goes against the spirit of the Indian Constitution and impedes life-saving sexual health work among sexual minorities." The parade was part of Rainbow Pride W’eek, which also featured movies, a photo exhibit, a panel discussion and a candlelight memorial for people lost to anti-gay abuse or HIV. "Clearly, Indian sexual minorities are not going to settle for status quo and are garnering Czech pride attacked, 20 injured The Czech Republic’s first gay pride parade, held in the city of Brno, came under attack from extremist and neo-Nazi protesters June 28 and at least 20 of the 500 marchers xvere injured. The 150 counterdemonstrators threw tear gas, fireworks and eggs at the marchers. Police and neo-Nazis clashed for about 45 minutes at the parade’s endpoint. About 15 of the troublemakers were arrested. www.metrostarnews.com g~®troSTAR 9 Oklahoma City GLBT community and their friends celebrated their annual Pride Parade and Festival, truly. By Victor Gorin OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Once again the GLBT community and their friends celebrated their annual Pride Parade and Festival truly, as the theme stated, "Coming ofAge." Paul q’hompson recalled how it began 21 years ago, planned by around a dozen people, not knowing ifany more people would actually show up. q-he Ku Klux Klan had threatened to show up however, ready to meet the Parade by the N.W. 39th Street Safeway (now Homeland) with hostile confrontation. As the original marchers still nostalgically recall, when the Klansmen saw around 400 marchers coming over the hill they promptly abandoned their mission and the rest is ongoing history. Photo by Victor Gorin: Michael Cich ofOKCPride withJoe Salmonese, Director of the nationalHuman Rights Campaign with hispartner BradLuna As soon as the festivities are over, planning for the next Parade and Festival begins. OKC Pride meetings take place the third Monday ofevery month year round at 7 p.m. at the Neighborhood Alliance Center (1236 N.W. 36th Street). Membership dues to join OKC Pride are only $15 per year, which not only supports the event but also gives you a vote in the organization. At the August 18 meetingOKC Pride members will elect the Board ofDirectors, which in turn will elect officers. Although the OKC Pride Parade & Festival is a wonderful celebration for our community, inevitably there are aspects ofit that some won’t like, or improvements that could be made. As Patti Thompson puts it. "The best way to implement the changes you want to see is through participation. Ifyou have ideas, things you’d like to change, things you liked that you want to stay the same, this is the time to come forward and let us know. We are open to all suggestions: OKC Pride is for the community, and it’s what we make it. (Photo’s Page- 12) Back to School Stylings ByJoey De TULSA, OK__ On August 4, one Tulsa salon will open its doors and help area youth begin their new school year in style. Monkey Bizness, located at 5942 S. Lewis, is offering complimentary hair cuts to the students ofnearby Wright Elementary, as well as to all area BLGT students. The back to school day ofbeauty was the idea ofMonkey Bizness stylist David Mitchell and friend Debbie Mayabb. "We wanted to do something to help BLGT youth, but the more we thought about it, the more we realized that we could so much more; says Mayabb. "Every kid deserves a good start to the school year. It doesn’t matter who they are or what they are." But over the last 21 years as the world, America and Oklahoma have changed, so has the Pride Festival and Parade. Whereas during the first few years politicians were scared to even acknowledge the event in a positive way, later public office holders and wannabes proudly participate, glad to seek our votes. This year’s Parade & Festival featured Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Jim Roth, State Representative A1 McAffrey, State Senator Audrew Rice (seeking a U.S. Senate seat), Ron Marlett who is seeking to unseat the infamous Sally Kern in State House District 84. Whereas in the beginning only bars, a few small gay owned businesses and extremely progressive nonprofits wanted to be associated with us, today mainstream businesses ranging from Budlight to Best Buy were proud to seek our business. As it has grown consistendy year after year, it has become an event not only for our community but also takes its place among Oklahoma City’s mainstream events. Whereas in the beginning it was only positively covered in the Gayly Oklahoman, this year’s celebration was positively covered by the Sentinel, the Oklahoma Gazette, and even the Daily Oklahoman. For the first time the Parade was held on a Friday evening with the biggest crowd ever, follo~ved by the Festival in Memorial Park the following Saturday and Sunday. As the Pride Festival and Parade has gro~vn to be an event the community celebrates and counts on, so have the responsibilities ofmaking it happen. The event is organized by OKC Pride, an organization with members who elect a Board ofDirectors, who then elect a President (currently Paul Thompson) Vice- President (office vacant)a Secretary (currently Victor Gorin) and a Treasurer (Currently Patricia Miller). What truly makes it come to life are the volunteers who toil long hours to make it happen, something most spectators have no concept ofand take for granted. For the first time OKC Pride had a Volunteer Coordinator, Miles Tompkins. While last year OKC Pride had around 20 volunteers, this year we had over 60, with a high percentage of those new volunteers young people (under 30), (Photo : co~munity volunteer and David ofMonkey "The for the haircuts just came to us one day; ex- "We approached Trish, the manager ofthe salon, and she loved the idea. When we asked all ofthe stylists, the support could not have been more overwhelming:’ Mitchell says that every Monkey Business stylist will be volunteering their day off to help, free ofcharge. "There are so many distractions for so many young people; says Mayabb, "everyone here wants to help give these kids that extra boost to succeed. It’s special for them to be able to come in to a salon ofthis caliber and be taken care ofby the best.’ Mayabb explains, listing offawards and recognitions that the salon’s team have won, including an Emmy won by Mitchell. The t~vo say that they worked with one ofMitchell’s clients, a TPS principal, to identify nearby Wright Elementary as the beneficiary due to economic status ofits students and proximity to the salon. The salon will also be reaching out to BLGT students through Youth Services ofTulsa and DYLN. Haircuts will be offered from 10am until 4pm. All students will have to bring an item proving they are enrolled in school. The salon has also invited their clients, and the rest ofthe public, to become involved with the effort through their "outfit-tree." They are currendy seeking donations ofbasic school supplies and backpacks to equip students for the first day ofschool. Ifyou would like to help, contact Monkey Biziness at (918)749-5130 or visit them on ,~wv.360.tulsa.com under the beauty section. 10 ~t~oSTAR August 2008 celebrate our 25th anniversary pride celebration. For more information & travel deals, visit wxcw.metrostarnews.com [~etroSTAR 11 12 ~en banded together to,r.aisemoney for Under the direction of OYP S Mama Carol this Con~ert was held atthe Tulsa, OK. Oklahoma Fdends of August2008 @ Showtime 2qse RoyalNavy marchingm LondonsgaypmdeparadeJuly 5. ScotsGayphOm via ~ockner News Halfa million at London Pride Around halfa million people turned out for London’s gay pride parade July 5, led by Mayor Boris Johnson, who wore a pink cowboy hat. Members of the British Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force marched in uniform. The Ministry of Defence offered free travel for servicemembers who wanted to attend the parade. Well-known activist Peter Tatchell carried a poster with a doctored, gayed-up photo of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. ~madme~ad leads a regime that arrests, jails; flogs, tortures and sometimes executes gay people," Tatchell said. MP Harriet Harman, minister of equality and deputy leader of the Labour Party, reportedly was booed as she spoke from die main stage at Trafalgar Square. Tatchell said the crowd was unhappy over the UK’s treatment of gay asylum-seekers from homophobic nations. Prior to the parade, Prime Minister Gordon Brown met with activists, including actor Sir Ian McKellen0 at his residence. They discussed homophobic bullying in schools, and Browds spokesman said he was "delighted" to have met with the group. Italian gay man wins 100,000 euros for discrimination A gay man on the island of Sicily won 100,000 euros (US$159,000) from the Italian governmentJuly 12 after the military and the Transport Ministry discriminated against him. Danilo Giuffrida came out as gay during his military medical exam. Doctors later relayed his coming-out to driver’s-license officials, who then accused him ofhaving a sexual identity disturbance, told him to retake his driving test and, when he passed it, gave him a one-year disabled-person’s license instead ofthe normal 10-year license. A court determined the events amounted to "sexual discrimination" and were unconstitutional. It is likely the first ruling ofits sort in Italian history. "Discrimination against those in the army who are lesbian, gay and bisexual does not give them a chance to contribute or to play a full part in the teams that are vital for our success on operations;’ said Gem Richard Dannatt, chief ofthe General Staff. "It is ... our absolute duty to treat our fellow soldiers as vce would wish to be treated ourselves." Britain banned gays from the military until 2000. The Royal Navy and Royal Air Force are already members ofthe Stonewall program. British Armyjoins gayequality program The British Army has joined the gay group Stonewall’s Diversity Champions program to work toward increased equality for gay and bisexual soldiers. Some 120,O00people turned outfar Henna’s~ 13th gayprideparadeJuly, 12. www.metrostarnews.com ~4®troSTAR 13 by Donald Pile and Ray Williams PHOENIX, ARIZONA ’~b~zona Sunburst Inn After leaving ~Zest Hollywood we drove to Phoenix where the weather was HOT. In the daytime it was 115 but at night it cooled down to around 110! We checked in to the ARIZONA SUNBURST INN which,aas sold about a year and a halfago and Tim andJames have remodeled and really changed the decor and ambiance. Tney have done a vconderful job. Both Tim and James are great hosts and they make you at home. The room furniture is very masculine. Since they have taken over they have had many guests that have returned several times. All rooms face the swimming po61 and they also have a Jacuzzi. A morning breakfast is ready whenever you want it. They have VflFI for guests and a public computer for those who forgot t° bring their lap top. They are located at 6245 North 12th Place, ideally located to all of the major gay bars and businesses. Check out their ~vebsite at: www.azsunburst.com. Their toll free nmnber is 1-800 -974-1474. They offer clothing optional stmbathing, swimruing and spa. This is the ONLY place to stay when visiting PhoenLx. There are dozens and dozens of restaurants to dine in Phoenix but our favorites are Marcellint Pdstorante which has tO be one ofthe finest Italian Restaurants that ~ve have had the pleasure of dining. They are located at !301 Northern Avenue. Their website is: ~wv.marcellinoristorante. com..Ifyou want true Italian coo~ng in an exciting atmosphere with servers who are the best then dine there. Tne mvners, Sirna and Marcellino Verzino are as good as it gets. Marcellino is the chef and his "beyond Fabulous" wife Sima is the "hostess who really is the mostess’! The combination of these two people are magic! Call for reservations: 602.- 216-0004. For a real dining experience we just can’t recommend dais restaurant enough. You can’t dine at the same restaurant every day so try TICOZ at 5114 North 7th Street. To say that it is wonderfifl is an understatement. ChefHolly creates the finest entrees and desserts ever. It has a great ambiance, wonderful service and their food presentation is as good as it gets. They have a huge following and we can certainly understand why! They have a great Saturday and Sunday Brunch special and the restaurant is always packed. They make some ofthe finest drinks in the city. Check out their website at www.ticozofarizona.com. For reservations call 602-200-0160. Be SURE and save room for dessert. Trust us on this one. They are totally beyond Fabulous! They also mvn another restaurant not too far away, SWITCH, 2603 North Central and their website is www. switchofarizona.com and they serve wonderful food there as well. There are a lot ofgay bars in Phoenix for vchatever you are into. Favorite bars includes Charlies (the cowboy bar), Amsterdam, downtown, Cell Block, the leather bar, Oz, Wild Card, and we particularly enjoyed the KoBalt at Park Central ~vhich has a piano bar sometimes. Phoenix is the largest city (area wise) in the country so you certainly need a car to get around town. There are a lot ofneighborhood bars around the city besides the large bars. They also have a couple of bath houses, the FLEX and the CHUTE. Most ofthe bars are located between 7th Avenue and 16th Street near Central Avenue. ~Ihe best place to find any bar or business in Phoenix is in the ARIZONA PRIDE GUIDE, vc~vw.arizonaprideguide.com. This informative guide is free and tells about the entire state of Arizona. It is distributed free all over the State or you can have them send you one.Just check out their website. The publisher Michael McFall has done a absolutely great job. It is the finest gay guide in any state that we have ever seen. There are a lot ofwonderful museums, galleries and shopping in the Phoenix area. Antique Marketplace is located at 4025 North 16th Street and sells a wide range ofantiques. Next door is the Root Seller Gallery 8: Apothecary that sells a large variety of artwork, books, cards, herbs, music and more. The arts are alive and well in Phoenix and there are a lot oflive theatre, and musical productions. Phoenix is surrounded by maW suburban cities and our favorite is TEMPE. tt is the home of Arizona State University and is one of the most progressive cities in the nation. Check out their website at: vibranttempe.com and click on GLBT TEMPE. Michael Martin and Nancy Black at the Convention and Visitors Bureau are two of the nicest people you would ever want to meet. Their revitalized downtown is so vibrant. Phoenix is a very friendly city and you are sure to make lots ofnew friends. Other websites to check out be~bre visiting Phoenix are: ¯aw~a~.gayarizona.com, w,a-,v.arizonaguide.com and w~avisitphoenix.com. The major gay publication is Echo, xwvw:echomag.com Always remember to have fun when traveling, meet new people and talk to everyone! CALIFORNIA MARRIAGE LICENSE INFORMATION By Donald Pile and Ray Williams Donald and Ray were legally married in Palm Springs, California, June 17th which was the first day that same-sex marriage became legal in California. "Ihey have been a gay couple for 37 years) As ofJune 17, 2008 the marriage laws in California were changed to allow same-sex couples to marry as well as heterosexual couples. There is no difference in the forms with the exception that in the same-sex marriage forms, they list "Party A" and "Party B" rather than bride and gr0bm. You can apply for a marriage license at nearly dl the county court houses in the state. A couple of counties have refused to marry same-sex couples and they are not allowed to marry heterosexual couples as well. A special note: For same-sex couples to be married in the State of Massachusetts, they have to be legal residents of that state. In California, there is NO residency requirement. Anybody from any state in the country can now be married legally in California. What you need... Both parties must provide valid photo ID If your ID does not contain your full legal name you must provide a certified copy of your birth certificate or a Social Security card. Otherwise, a driver’s license is sufficient for proof. If you have been divorced within the last two years you must bring in a certified copy of your divorce decree. Both parties must appear to apply for and pick up their marriage license. Different counties xvithin the State of California charge different prices and they vary from $55.00 to $70.00. They accept cash and debit cards only. The license is valid for 90 days from the date of issue. The license is typed tip and given to you in about 30 minutes. Should you desire to get married right there, they offer a civil marriage ceremony right at the court house. Naere is a fee of $35.00~ You are taken into a private room and the clerk as well as a wimess that they will provide in case you. don’t take some with you goes thru the marriage ceremony. The ending remarks are "In as much as Donald and Raymond have thus consented together in marriage, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the State of California as a Deputy Comrnissioner of Civil Marriages for the County of l~verside, I now pronounce you to be united in marriage. "AND TRUST US, IT JUST DOESN’T GET ANY BETTER THAN THAT MOMENT! After 37 years together, dais was one of the finest sentences that we have ever heard! You do not need a blood test or health certificate. There is no waiting period to get married. The entire process from start to finish takes less than one hour. Some couples prefer to get the license and then plan a wedding afterwards in a few days. Eight states allow same-sex marriage alternatives: In Connecticut, New Hampshire, New Jersey and Vermont, same-sex couples can enter civil unions and receive the same statelevel benefits and responsibilities conveyed in traditional marriages. Similarly, Oregon residents can register as domestic partners and receive all state marital rights. Couples in Hawaii, Maine and Washington state can register as domestic partners and receive many of the most important marital rights. Suggestion: Don’t fly out for the weekend expecting to get married. The Court Houses are open Monday thru Friday only. 14 NetroSTAR August 2008 EUREKA SPRINGS SUMMER ,E,UREKA SPRINGS, AR;__ Eureka Springs is gearing up for its Summer Diversty Festivel to be held August 1,2,3, 2008 ~vith many events, shows and pool parties planned, including the now famous PDA in die park, where all persons are invited to show "Public Display ofAffection" for their spouse or partner. Eureka Springs welcomed its 200th gay couple (Visiting from Chicago) to register under the domestic partnership registration law. History was made on May 14, 2007 when the Eureka Springs City Council unanimously approved the "Domestic Partner Registration (DPR). Although the document does not entitle couples legal benefits as in a marriage, it does act as a wonderful validation and acknowledgement oftheir relationship and commitment to each other. This was a first for Arkansas and hopefully, will inspire other registries throughout the state and beyond. Persons from anT0¢here may register in Eureka Springs.’ Visit www.diversitypride.com or ww~v.eurekapride.com for more information. AUg 1, 2008: Welcome Mixer at Marquee’s 7 - 9 PM (open for dinner 4 - 10pm) Aug 1, 08: Miranda Ray Performs at Jaek’s Place 10:00 PM Aug 1, 08: Miranda Meridian Performs at Lumberyard 8:00 PM Aug 1, 08: Diversity Bikers Brunch & Fun Run. Iron Horse Stables at 10 AM then ride to the PDA Aug 2, 08: PDA in Basin Park 12 Noon Aug 2, 08: Bear Pool Party. 1 PM - ? at Tradewinds Aug 2, 08: Diversity Bikers Raid the Pool Party & Fun Run starting at Planner Hill Parking Lot 3:30 - 5 PM Aug 2, 08: Miranda Ray Performs at Jack’s Place 10:00 PM Aug 2, 08: Miranda Meridian Performs at Lmnberyard 8:00 PM ALSO: Aug 1-2, 08: Yards & Yards ofYard Sales Aug 3, 08: Lucky 13 Cinema: Double feature "Across the Universe" & "Wizard ofOz", music of"Dark Side ofthe Moon" www.metrostarnews.com NetroSTAR 15 The Ledo, Oklahoma City @ Bamboo Lounge, Tulsa @Angles, Oklahoma City The Copa, Oklahoma City @Club Majestic, Tulsa @ Finishline, Oklahoma City by Jack Fertig AUGUST 2008 "Keep your balance, Aries!" The most troublesome planets are stirring up discord - Mars opposing Uranus, Mercury opposing Neptune. Looking to Eris for the best aspects is like borrowing sugar from Lucrezia Borgia! With everyone shooting their mouths off and facts getting jumbled, focus on careful listening and discernment. ARIES (March 20 -April 19): Struggles at work might make you feel you’re on the wrong team. What’s easier to change - your job or your attitude? Time out, playful relaxation, and self-care (massage? acupuncture?) are needed to keep your balance. TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): A~guments at home need to be settled to avoid tension that can screw you up at work. Friends who want to play may keep you from what you really find entertaining and relaxing. Take time at home to contemplate your goals in work and in life. GEMINI (May 21 - June 20): You probably can’t avoid arguments this week, but you canopick and choose them. Remember the simple, obvious rules: logic has nothing tO do with religion or sex; authorities should be criticized with extreme diplomacy and care; and friends who will forgive anything are the best to hang with! CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Arguments about sex can come up easily, especially if you’re unclear about what you really want. You need some guidance, a new philosophical or spiritual perspective. Explore those intangibles, and the touchy-feely will be easier to work out. LEO (July 23 - August 22): Your partner (or Jack of one) seems especially aggravating now, and your sexual needs are not being propedy met - probably because you are at some level reassessing them. A good political argument may somehow kick your priorities and Needs into better focus. ......... VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Make a list of your worries. Cross off the ones you can’t do anything about, then list the steps you can take to deal with the others. A partner’s input may be helpful. An amorous retreat will be even more so. .... LIBRA (September 23 - October 22):.Nob0d~ else will fix what’s bothering you, so what ape _you_ doing about it? Big as some problems are, you can make a difference! You could even bring friends into a volunteer effort as if it were a social event. SCORPIO ((~ctober 23 - November 21): "(our playful jabs at social critique can get you a reputation. Will hosts send you invitations due to real affection or out of self-defense? Focus that acuity on working more effectively, and you could accomplish a lot! SAGITTARIUS (Nov.ember 22 - December 20): Arguments aren’t as likely to show that you’re right as much as that you insist on "being right." A little humility and listening can go a long way. Better yet, playful word games are preferable to serious debate. CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19): Arguments about sex, sexuality, and gender issues can easily get out of hand. If you must react as if your mother’s honor were at stake, think of how she’d want you to be civil in your debate. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): Sexual values and tastes change with age and experience. Although that’s normal, staying in sync with your partner may be the big challenge! Communication is always the key. Be open to exploring differences as well as common ground. PISCES (February 19 - March 19): Your ideas for improvements at work are, um, intriguing. Discuss them with a colleague or two, allowing that they may be a bit off the wall. Still, they could be the seeds of much better ideas. Focus on efficiency and economy. 16 MetroSTAR ,, August 2008 Massachusetts may OK marriage for out-ofstarers Massachusetts’ legislature is considering repeal oi:a 1913 law that prohibits people from other states from getting married there if the marriage wouldn’t be allowed where they live. ’The law -- which stopped interracial couples who couldn’t marry in their own states t~¥om n~arrying in Massachusetts -- was resurrected aider Massachusetts legalized same-sex marriage in 2004. ~e speaker of the House, the president ofth~ Senate and Gov. Deva! Patrick all support the law’s repeal. U2S. Census Bureau won’t count married gays ~ae U.S. government will not count married gay couples in the 2010 censtts, the San Jose Mercury News reported July 12. Brot,~ers &Sismrs actors Matthew Rhys (who plays gay character Kevin Walker) and Sally Field. GLAAD photo repre.sentations. Lifetime and MTV ranked adequate. A&E, Spike, TBS, TNT m~d USA received failing grades. The ful! report is at glaad.org/media/nri/ NRI_2008.pdf. Instead, same-sex couples who accurately report that they are married will have their response tabulated by the Census Bureau as if they had checked "unmarried partners." Same-sex marriage is legal in California and Massachuset:tS[ in addition, New Yorkers who m~r~ in those states or abroad are recognized as married in New York state. ~ae Mercury News said the Census Bureau’s decision was based on the federal Defense of i~{arriage Act (DOMA) "and other mandates." DOMA, signed into law by President Bill Clinton in 1996, states, in part: "In determining the meaning of any Act of Congress, or of any ruling, regulation, or interpretation of the various administrative bureaus and agencies of the United States, the word ’marriage’ means only a leg~d union between one man and one woman ,as husband and wife, and the word ’spouse’ refers only to a person of the opposite sex ~vho is a husband or a wife." Gary Gates of the Williams Institute, a think tank at the University of California Los Angeles Law School, told the newspaper that the bureau’s decision "goes against everything the census stands fo,:" "It’s a systematic hiding not only of married gay couples, but gay couples as families, which I would argue is a fundamentally political decision," Gates said. received failing grades for their 6 percent and 4 percent of programming hours with GLBT images. Of the 10 cable networks evaluated, FX, HBO and Showtime each received a grade of good, with FX leading with 45 percent of programming hours featuring GLBT "Barack believes that ,ve must fight for a world as it should be. A ,vorld where together we work to reverse discriminatory laws like D.O.M.A. (Defense of Marriage Act) and Don’t Ask Don’t Tell," Mrs. Obama said, addressing an audience of 250 people at a fundraiser for the Democratic National Committee. METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES Rev Steve T. Uric Spirit of Christ MCC 2902 E 2® Street Joplin, MO 64804 417-529-8480 Worship Saturdays at t0:00 AM Community Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM MCC 0fthe Living Spring t7 Elk Street Eureka Spdngs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays at 6:00 PM Have a God filled and BleSSed Day! ~Transsexnal Richards www.metrostarnews.com ~et~oSTAR 17 \ KiNG OF MASSAGE GFeBt Touch Man to Man F.tl Body Massage 2 hands or 4 hands available out calls (405) Keller Williams Realty Chuck Breckenridge Now Hiring Male & Female Creating Community for People ~iving H~V/A~DS 50’I c (3) No~: P~ofit ()rgaaizafion Our House, Too offers a variety of activities for people who are HtV+ and or living with AiDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves. We invite anyone who ¯~/ould like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail hardsmmjr@yahoo.com. ~rhether buying or selling I’ll work hard for you. Freelance Reporters Needed For Oklahoma City, Tulsa and all area’s Qualifications to stamews@sbcglobal.net or mail to: The Star, PO Box 581718 Tulsa, OK 74158 Metro Star Chssfieds 2" square ON SALE! for as litde as $33 per issue. Email: starnews@sbcglobal.net offer good until 8/16/08 918.835.7887 SAVE & FILL YOURPIGGY [] [] grWW.METROSTARNEWS.COM 18 www.rnetr0starnews.c0m Support those who support us. Their ads allow us to distribute your community news FREE to you. OPENARMS YOUTH PROJECT DOWNTOWN PLAZA ofTULSA 17 West 7th Street Tulsa, OK 918-585-5898 www:downtownplazatulsa.com HABANA INN 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-528-2221 ~v.~vw.habanainn.com KELLY KIRBY, CPA 4815 S. HARVARD, SUITE 424 Tulsa, OK * 918-747-5466 Certified Public Accountant ANGLES 21!7 NW 39th St. Oklahoma City, OK vavw.anglesclub.com BAMBOO LOUNGE 7204 E. PINE Tulsa, OK 918-836-8700 wv~#abambooloungetulsa.com CLUB MAJESTIC 124 N. BOSTON Tulsa, OK 918-584-9494 wvw.dubmajestictulsa.com FINISHLINE 2200 NxY-/- 39TH EXPRESSWAY Otdahoma City, OK 405-525-{3730 xwvw.habanainn.com THE COPA 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESS"gAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE LEDO 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.corn HOPE TESTING CLINIC 3540 E. 31st Tulsa, OK 800-535-2437 Oklahoma’s HIV!STD Hotline SPIPdT OF CHRIST MCC 2902 E. 20TH STREET, Joplin, MO * 479-529-8480 Service Saturday 9:30 AM MCC of the LIVING SPRING !7 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays 6pro MCC UNITED 1623 N. Maplewood, Tulsa, OK 9t8-838-1715 www.mcctutsa.org www.metrostarnews.com 2015 -B S. Lakewood Tulsa, OK 74112 918-838-7104 www. openarmsproject.org OUR HOUSE, TOO 203 N. Nogales Ave Tulsa, OK 74127 918-585-9552 KING OF MASSAGE In or Out Calls Oldahoma City, OK 405-314-3898 JUDY G. PHOTO’S Tulsa, OK judygphotos@sbcglobal.net 918-743-8636 CENTURY 21 GOLD CASTLE 3627 N\V EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405-840-2106 www.c21 goldcastle,com CHUCK BRECKENRIDGE Keller vvrilliams Realty Tulsa, OK 918-706-1887 GAY BRADY HEIGHTS-Tulsa New and Historic Homes for Sale and Rent For Info: w~,av. gaybradyheightstulsa.com GUSHER’S RESTAURANT 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 Located inside Habana Inn DALLAS CVB Dallas, TX www.glbtdallas.com L N÷troSTAR 19 Advertisement paid for by friends OfRon Marlett. OKLAHO ESE "I’m Ron Marlett and I’m running for State House District 84 because I want a chance to bring about change that really matters for my fellow Oklahomans: good jobs, affordable healthcare, a quality educational system and real freedom and equality." I NEED YOUR HELP TO WIN THIS ELECTION, WE CAN NIAKE ~T HAPPEN! need money and volunteers! Ron Marlett P.O. Box 854 Bethany, OK 73008 (405) 640-2069 www.ronmarlettforhousedistrict84.com Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2008] Metro Star Magazine, August 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 8 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource August 01, 2008 Subject The topic of the resource Politics, education, and social conversation over LGBTQ+ topics Description An account of the resource The Metro Star’s first issue began in August of 2008. Before this issue was Ozarks Pride (2004), The Ozark’s Star (2004), and The Star (2005). This magazine discusses topics of AIDs, education, politics, local and national civil rights of the LGBT community, and advice for relationships and places to visit. This collection is PDF searchable. Physical copies are also available to be seen at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center with permission. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Star Media, Ltd; Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Star Media, Ltd Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Greg Steele James Nimmo Joey D. Victor Gorin Rex Wockneer Romeo San Vicente Andrew Collins Donald Pile Ronald Blake Ray Williams Jack Fertig Devre Jackson Chaz Ward Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Image PDF Online text Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource magazine Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Southwestern Missouri Western Arkansas Southeastern Kansas Eastern Oklahoma The United States of America (50 states) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://history.okeq.org/collections/show/19 Relation A related resource The Star Magazine, July 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 7 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/247 The Metro Star, September 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 9 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/201 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context https://history.okeq.org/items/show/198 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/2698e69563dac442975726fa3ccdc324.jpg 91080cec75c4608c9092062fd36d7424 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/db0ee4c2ed6d12764a885c1600e0ad76.pdf 7d031eefaacd3f2b0159c6bb31da4c3d PDF Text Text ~NWW.METROSTARNEWS.COM "WE DELIVER DIVERSITY" DECEMBER 1, 2008 WoCkmer News Service life and times ofan OHahoma legend. ByMetro StarStaff protesting Califom,as ’assage ofl~ropost, tion 8. Wackner News Photo) Bill Francisco, ~ Clogger Bill, has pofarmed over 350 b~efits andfundraisen for the ~dsa and surrounding Communities since !93Z In the beginning, God created heaven and earth and Bill Francisco on September 5, 1931. He was born in the middle of the Great Depression. His Mother and Dad were Portuguese farmers, poor as the dirt they farmed. His job until school years was pulling weeds in the garden. An estimated 7,500 to 15,000 people marched through Manhattan Nov¯ 12 protesting caiifornia’~ Proposition 8, the state ~-on~titution Nov. 4 to end same:sex marriage, which yeas legalized by the former New York Ammerican Civil Liberties Union Executive Director Normal Siegel Said t~e was c0mfortable ,vith a figure of 7i500; and longtime gay activist Bill Dobbs, who opposes same.sex marriage, favoring civil unions instead, said 5,000 to 7,000. ~e march began at the Mormon Temple on Columbus Av, enue, went down Broadway, turned east on 61St Street, then south on Central Park West to Columbus circle, "Tonight was an amazing success and I was proud of New York City standing in Solidarity with California and getting people out in the streets doing something meaningful," said Johnson, who is director of government affairs at a Wall Street realresta*e-development firm and political director of the popular gay blog Towleroad. Gay activists have claimed that more than half of the money that funded the ubiquitous TV ads that convinced Californians to vote for Prop 8 was donated by Mormon families at the church’s urging. Estimates of the turnout for the march varied. Journalist and radio personality Michelangelo Signorile reported 15,000; lead organizer Corey Johnson estimated 12,000; blogger and participant Joe Jervis (JoeMyGod) Said 10,000 to 15,000; "My career started when I was six ),ears old. I was in the 1st grade in Tulsgs Longfellow Hementary Schoo! at sixth and Peoria. We did a fund-raiser for the school. They staged still life portraits of Oklahoma history. I was selected as the young boy in the Ponca City.statue of The Pioneer Woman for my very first on-stage performance. Playing a statue, I had to stand perfectly still and not move for three minutes! The most difficult thing in the world for a six year old boy to do is stand still! I wanted to do such a good job, every night when the curtain went up, I would hold my breath the full three minutes so I wouldn’t move a muscle and be the perfect statue, but of course I almost passed out." My name is Chili. ........ Continued see SANTA page-15 California’s Supreme Court has been asked to delete Prop 8 from the constitution, anda ruling is expected rdatively quickly. The American Civil Libe*:ties Union, Lambda Legal, the National Center for Lesbian Rigl!ts and other parties say Prop 8 illegally "revised" the state constitution rather than merely amending it. .,,,,....,.:Con{inued see NYC Page-8 �2 December 2008 �~#w.metrostarnews.com �Oklahoma City GLBT and Allied Community Rallies Over two hundred demonstrators t~llied on the Oklahoma City, City Hall steps to p~otest discrimination voted in by California, Arizona, Florida and Arkansas on Nov 4. Photo by ~ctor Gorin. On November 15 on the steps of the Oklahoma City Hall, there was an outpouring of emotion & solidarity as over 200 GLBT people and their fair minded allies gathered together to protest the passage of Proposition the rights of those who may want to marry later, but also left in legal limbo s~ae sex couples who had already gotten married For Trey Dill, who brought it all together, organizing this protest was his first venture in social activism. As he puts it, "After the passage of Proposition 81 found myself kind of angry, and Igot on the Internet and began browsing every GLBT website. One day I stumbled onto the jointheimpact.com website, which was organizing these rallies nationwide. There ~vas a listing for Oklahoma City, yet nobody here was involved, so I decided that I was going to do this." At 24, a lifdong Oklahoman, he brought it together through Internet work and word of mouth, naakAng a grand occasion that received mainstream televi- McCullar and Marlena Weaver, who had gotten married in California October 20, xvhose marriage is now in legal limbo. Although they realized that their marriage would not be recognizedqn Oklahoma, the passage of Proposition 8 still hurt. As Kara put it, "It makes us feel like we’re not worthy enough. ~aey’ll take our taxes, ~ve l~ve in the same community, yet we are second class citizens. We’re here to protest this, because gay or straight we all should have the same rights. STOP HATE IN THE HALLWAYS By Victor Gorin OKLAHOMA CITY. OK Educators, mental health professionals, activists and others interested in Oklahomds students came together November 13 for the 2nd Stop Hatred in the Hallways Conference. Following the success of the first conference held in Oklahoma City, this meeting was held at the U.S. Postal Service’s National Facility for Employee Development in Norman, bringing in people throughout Oklahoma interested in making Oklahoma’s schools safer. The Conference was originally organized by Cimarron Alliance, mainly because of a glaring need that wasn’t being met. While there have been many incidents of school violence, and conferences and discussion to address it, there had never been a conference, seminar or major Ann Simank Social worker &former OKC Councilperson, Randy Tate Conference organiz~ Tanya Cox representingACLU Oklahoma. Photo by Victor Gorin meeting that included what many feel is the most common form of bullying, those who are or are perceived to be gay or lesbian. Whether the problem is growing or simply being recognized and addressed is open to question. What is certain is that there definitely is a problem. In a national study, over 30% of U.S. students reported being involved in bullying either as a bully 13%, a victim 11%, or both 6%. Coming dose to home, the Oklahoma State Department of Health did a study surveying 7848 Oklahoma students. They found similar results, with 33% that had been involved in bullying, 12% as the bullg, 14% as the victim, and 7% involved in both. One in five students worried often or daily about being bullied. More than half never reported it to an adult at school or a parent. When asked what could be done about the situation, 213 of those xvho were bullied and half of those not bullied wanted better adult supervision. of 37 school shooting incidents found that 71% of the shooters felt threatened and/or persecuted, or had been attacked. Following a welcome by Richard Odgen, Chairman of Cimarron Mliance, the conference was addressed by Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmondson. He pointed out how things have dhanged, how prejudices of home are brought to schools, and those who ,ire different frequently become objects of bullying. ............. Continued see STOP HATE page-11 Not only is bullying damaging to both the victims, but frequendy the bullies suffer as well, with over 60% of those categorized as bullies in grades 6-9 having at least one criminal conviction by age 24. A study with the U.S. Department of Education December 2008 �Room Rates From $42.95 A~ About Our Su#es www.metrostarnews.com ~et~tJSTAR 5 �What’s the Matter with Oklahoma? OkEq Sponsors a Care Drive OGRA Announces 2009 Royalty Team By Gov. David V/alters TULSA, OK (PR) __ OkEq is sponsoring a Care Drive as part of our Home for the Holidays. Donations are being accepted at the Center for Our House Too, which serves approximately 75 clients affected by HIV and AIDS. Our House Too needs personal items such as cleaning supplies and toiletry items. OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (PR) _ OGRA has announced the New OGRA 2009 Royalty Team. Miss OGRA 2009, Anita Ryder Mr OGRA 2009, Larry Bourne Ms OGRA 2009, Brooklyn Rachelle OGRA would like to invite everyone to come and join us for our next genera! membership meeting, Sunday December 7th 2008 at 2:00 PM at the Ledo, in the Habana Inn Complex. The Parish Church of St. Jerome’s Food Pantry served over 500 householcks and over 1000 people last year. The food pantry needs canned foods, stuffing mixes, hamburger helpers, etc. The drive will continue until the end of the year. A full list 0fitems needed is available at the Center and on our website, ~wccw.okeq.org Holiday Music Is In Air Photo: Gov. David Walters (nndb.conO I waited three days in the hopes that my fuming at Oklahoma’s counter performance to the collective heave ho that the rest of the nation gave to the Republicans would subside. It has not. Axnending the title of Tnomas Franks’ insightful book about how conservatives won the heart of g,ansas ,.. "What’s the Matter with Oklahoma?" Did we really just do this? We’re the winner of the national championship for the highest McCain/Palin margin at 65.6 percent; the only state where Republicans gained ground in the state house, senate and statewide offices; and the only state in which McCain/Palin carried every county. Not one of our 77 counties ,vent Democratic, not a single blue dot. Sen. Obama polled 10.8 percent in Beaver County. This was not out of 100 votes where percentages are easily distorted, but out of 2,462 votes cast. Now you are thinking that we cannot expect mu& progressive thought out of a county best known for its cow-chip throwing contest (two tries if you lick your fingers after the first). BUt I have been to Beaver county and met good people and don’t understand 89.2% decided Sarah Palin should be vice president of the United States. It’s not just our friends in Beaver scouring the landscape for aerodynamic cow patties. Twenty-one counties fell below 25 percent for Obama and 39 counties, more than half of the 77, fell below 30 percent. The top bastion of Democratic performance? Cherokee county, where they used to spray for Republicans, held McCain/Palin to "only" 56.percent. The heart of our most Democratic county only allowed Obama to get within 12.2 percent of a single county victor,/. Howard Dean called me as I was looking at these .......... Continued See WALTERS 6 ~etroSTAR TULSA, OK (OKEQ) Council Oak Men’s Chorale Presents "A Holiday Happening" - an event so festive even Rudolph will be jealous! December 2nd, 5th, and 6th starting at 8:00pro at the Trinity Episcopal Church. For more information visit the web site at http://vcww. counciloak.org. Sisters In Song is also holding a Holiday Concert. The event scheduled for Dec 13th. Stay tuned for details or visit ww~v.myspace. com/sistersinsong. NEW GAY CLUB OPENS IN JOPLIN JOPLIN, MO (PR) __ With several new GLBT bars opening and closing this past year, the Joplin Gay Community is looking forward to a place to gather and have fun that they can depend on to be open the next day. The PLA-Mor Lounge should be just that. Local business man and owner of the new dub, Bill Jack is well know and respected in the area. They are open Monday- Saturday 3:00PM to 1:30 am. Located at 532 South Joplin Ave Joplin MO 64801, phone 417-624-2722. The OGRA 2009 Royalty Team would !ike to invite everyone to their first fundraiser of their reign, Saturday December 20th 2008 from 8:00 PM until 10:00 PM at the Finishline, in the Habana Inn Complex. They ~vill be raising money for the 2009 Great Plains Rodeo and their Charity Partners. During the evening a Christmas wreath auction will be held and door prizes will be given away. They will also be issuing the organizations contributions to the charity partners for 2008. "Please join us to recognize al! the hard work the organization has done for this community during the 2008 year." N~e 2008 charity partners are RAIN Oklahoma and Other Options. Dennis R. Neill Equality Center opens December exhibit TULSA, OK (PR) __ The Dennis R Neill Equality Center Gallery exhibit for December is a fundraiser for the Gallery. The theme for the exhibit is ’Reflection on a Red Stiletto’. Each of the eleven participating artists were given ~a red stiletto to use in their creation or to use as inspiration for their creation. That piece ~vill be donated to the Gallery and available for purchase throughout the exhibit in a silent auction. The Opening Night Reception for the exhibit ~Vill be Thursday, December 4th, from 6 to 9pro, at the Center, 621 E 4th St, Tulsa. The exhibit and silent auction will rm~ through December 31. Each artist will also have one additional piece of his/her artwork on display for sale. Proceeds from this fuaadraiser will go towards the purchase of wood benches for the Gallery, additional lighting, additional display pieces, etc. Artists that will be participating include: Michael Christopher Ann Marie DiStefano Karen Greenawalt G Krysta Hamilton Allie Jensen Nick Kountoupis Sharyl Landis Josh New Jessica Newman Directory of Local Animal Shdters Tulsa Shelter Broken Arrow OKC Muskogee Stillwater Coweta Siloam Springs Claremore Sand Springs Jenks Owasso Sapulpa Norman Collinsville 918-669-6299 918-259-8311 405 297 3104 918 686 7297 405 372 0334 918-486 2137 479 524 6535 918 341 1260 918 246 2543 918 299 6311 918-272-4965 918 227 2722 405 321 6725 918 371 1000 Courtesy ofwvoCalabrescue.net December 2008 �Wockner News Service Colorado sends openly gay man to Congress Schwarzenegger: State Supremes may undo Prop 8 Laxwers for the gay side filed suit in the state Supreme Court on Nov. 5 seeking to annul Prop 8. They said it is not merely an amendment to the constitution but rather a "revision" that fundamentally alters the guarantee of equal protection. Don Perata and Assembly Speaker Karen Bass. Constitutional revisions require a t~vo-thirds vote of the Legislature to reach the ballot. Prop 8 got there by activists’ collecting signatures on petitions. When changes in the constitution have farreaching effects on the document’s structure and purpose, the process of amending it must begin in the state Legislature, with a two-thirds vote. The process cannot start solely with voters signing petitions, as was the case with Prop 8. "Proposition 8 is invalid because the initiative process was improperly used in an attempt to undo the constitution’s core commitment to equality for everyone by eliminating a fundamental right from just one group -- lesbian and gay Californians," said the American Civil Liberties Union, Lambda Legal and the National Center for Lesbian Rights. Photo: j~red Polls by Rex l~ckner California Gov. A,wold Schwarzenegger thinks the state Supreme Court may annul Prop 8. Photo by Rex Wockner " Openly gay Jared Polls was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives on Nov. 4 from Colorado’s 2nd Congressional District, which encompasses areas north and west of Denver, including the city of Boulder. California Gin: Arnold Schwarzenegger told CNN on Nov. 9 that the state Supreme Court may welt "undo" Proposition 8, the voter initiative that re-banned same-sex marriage Nov. 4 by amending the state constitution. Polls, a 33-year-old Democrat, is the first openly gay man elected to Congress who was out when elected t’or the first time. U.S. Rep. Tamlnv Baldwin. D-Wis., holds the female distincrmn in that regard. ,~d the governor suggested he thinks that would be a good ~ove. "~e voters of out" district have spoken clearly that they ~an~ change brought t~ Washing~rn,Polls told the Denver Post. "I look fbr~vard to taking my out-of-the-box approach and creative ideas to help shake up "Washington? maybe, as goo_d a campaigner had as much ’ gg er moneY behind ~t, " " whatever, Schwarzene said. "I think it is unfortunate, obviously, but In his primary-election victory speech in August, Polls introduced his partner, made reference to being gay, ~d said, "I always worried that that ~vould get in the way (of) giving back mad contributing to our society:’ A millionaire who made his money in online ventures, Polis spent $ 5.6 million of his own funds in the campaign. Polls becomes the sixth open gay to serve in the I-louse of Representatives, following in the footsteps of Baldwin, current Rep. Barney Frank kD-Mass.), and former Reps. Gerry Studds (D-Mass.), who is deceased, Steve Gunderson (R-Wis.) and Jim Kolbe (R-Ariz.). Frank, 68, is now the powerful chairman of the House Financial Services Committee. Frank told the Post in August, "We are reaching that point where among.Democratic voters sexual orientation of a candidate is not a factor." He also said that once he’s no longer the only gay male congressman, he won’t feel as much pressure to be a role modd and plans to start smoking cigars in public again. °I can start indulging some bad habits; Frank said. "Let the young gay people find someone else to emulate? www.metrostamews.com "They had a very, very strong campaign, the pro-Proposition 8 people, and I think that the people that tried to defeat it did not have, it’s nrt the end because I think this will go back into the courts, this will go back to the Supreme Court because the Supreme Court very clearly in California has declared this unconstitutional. It’s the same as in the 1948 case xvhen blacks and whites were not allowed to marry. This falls into the same category. So, I think that we will again, you know, maybe undo that, if the court is willing to do that, and then move forward from there and again lead in that area? In addition to the anti-gay side’s having aired much more effective ads than the pro-gay side did in the huge TV-advertising war, Schwarzenegger said there were other factors that aided Prop 8’s passage. "Because of the big turnout amongst AfricanAmericans and Latinos, that had an effect also, which they did not expect, so there’s all kinds of other things there;’ he said. "And I think the religious groups have done a really big campaign, a lot of them, to support Proposition 8, and so on, and so it’s a very, very difficult thing." Before the TV ad war started, Prop 8 had been losing in the polls by as much as 17 points. 2qae governor also offered some advice to California’s gay population. "(Y)ou should never ever give up; he said. "They should never give up. They should be on it and on it until they get it done: Gay groups and others have filed suit seeking to invalidate Prop 8, arguing that it unconstitutionally "revised" the constitution, rather than merely amending it. "Proposition 8 is invalid because the initiative process was impropetly used in an attempt to undo the constitution’s core commitment to equality for everyone by elinainating a fundamental right from just one group -- lesbian and gay Californians;’ said the American Civil Liberties Union, Lambda Legal and the National Center for Lesbian Rights. "Proposition 8 also improperly attempts to prevent the courts from exercising their essential constitutional role of protecting the equal prote.ction rights of minorities," the groups said. Same-sex marriages begin in Connecticut Same-sex couples began marrying in Connecticut on Nov. 12 after final judgment was entered in a case decided by the state Supreme Court on Oct. 10. In a 4-3 ruling, the court had declared that the state’s policy ofoff~ring same~sex couples:only civil unions violated that state constitution’s guarantee Of equal protection under the law. One report, based on partial data, said 66 marriage licenses were issued to same-sex couples across the state in the initial hours after samesex marriage becanae legal. On S,a.ra,,y, No . 15, w=e .ge, ,-oorai- hated anti-~grop 8protests across the country at 10:30 a.ra. Ca~fornia time. 7his was the scene in San Francisco. Viockner News pboto by Steve Silb~an With California voters’ recent decision to re-ban same-sex marriage, Massachusetts is the only other U.S. state where gay couples can marry. ~ae California move, which anaended the state constitution, is under assault in several new lawsuits filed with the state Supreme Court, and gays and their supporters have staged numerous large street demonstrations up and dmvn the state since Nox: 4. Legislators want Pro 8 overturned Direct Cremation From $595 Forty-four California legislators filed a brief with the state Supreme Court on Nov. 10 urging that Proposition 8, the constitutional amendment that voters passed to qe-ban same-sex marriage, be overturned. MORTUARY SERVICE, ~c Traditional Funeral Services at Affordable Prices (405) 230- 1310 or !-800-913-1310 Pre-Need Plan CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED Signers included Senate President Pro Tempore 2415-C North WalnutAvenue, Oklaho MetroSTAR 7 �California Supreme Court Grants Review In Prop 8 Legal Challenges Court To Determine Constitutionality of Prop 8 SAN FRANCISCO, CA (PR) __ November 19, 2008) -- Today the California Supreme Court granted review in the legal challenges to Proposition 8, which passed by a narrmv margin of 52 percent on November 4. In an order issued today, the Court agreed to hear the case and set an expedited briefing schedule. q-he Court also denied an immediate stay. On November 5, 2008, the National Center for Lesbian Rights, the American Civil Liberties Union, and Lambda Legal filed a lawsuit challenging the validity of Proposition 8 in the California Supreme Court on behalf of six individuals and Equality California. The City of San Francisco, joined by the City of Los Angeles and Santa Clara County, filed a similar challenge, as did a private attorney in Los Angeles. clause of the California Constitution and violates the fundamental right to marry. Proposition 8 would completely eliminate the right to marry only for same-sex couples. No other initiative has ever successfully changed the California Constitution to take avcay a right only from a targeted minority group. Over the past 100 years, the California Supreme Court has heard nine cases challenging either legislative enactments or initiatives as invalid revisions of the California Constitution. In three of those cases, the Court invalidated those measures. For more information on dais case, go to: http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/courts/supreme/ highprofile/prop8.htm MISS BAMBOO 2009 CROWNED By Greg Steele On November 17, 2008, the California Council of Churches and other religious leaders and faith organizations representing millions of members statewide, also filed a petition asserting that Proposition 8 poses a severe threat to the guarantee of equal protection for all, and was not enacted through the constitutionally required process for such a dramatic change to the California Constitu~ tion. On the same day, prominent California womeffs rights organizations filed a petition asldng the Court to invalidate Proposition 8 because of its potentially disastrous implications for women and other groups that face discrimination. In May of 2008, the California Supreme Court held that barring same-sex couples from marriage violates the equal protection 8 ~®t~oSTAR "Proposition 8 is invalid because the initiative process was improperly used in an attempt to undo the constitution’s core commitment to equality for everyone by eliminating a fundamental right from just one group -- lesbian and gay Californians," the legal groups said. "Proposition 8 also improperly attempts to prevent the courts from exercising their essential constitutional role of protecting the equal protection rights of minorities," the groups said. California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger on Nov. 10 expressed support for overturning Prop 8. "This will go back to the Supreme Court because the Supreme Court very clearly in California has declared this unconstitutional," Schwarzenegger told CNN. "It’s the same as in the 1948 case when blacks and whites were not allowed to marry. This falls into the same category. So, I think that we will again, you know, maybe undo that, if the court is willing to do that, and then move forward from there and again lead in that area." The lawsuits allege that, on its face, Proposition 8 is an improper revision rather than an amendment of the California Constitution because, in its very title, which ,vas "Himinates the right to marry for same-sex couples," the initiative eliminated an existing right only for a targeted minofit): If permitted to stand, Proposition 8 would be the first time an initiative has successfully been used to change the California Constitution to take way an existing right only for a particular group. Such a change would defeat the very purpose of a constitution and fundamentally alter the role of the courts in protecting minority rights. According to the California Constitution, such a serious revision of our state Constitution cannot be enacted through a simple majority vote, but must first be approved by two-thirds of the Legislature. Since the three lawsuits submitted on November 5, three other lawsuits challenging Proposition 8 have been filed. In a petition filed on November 14, 2008, leading African American, Latino, and Asian American groups argued that Proposition 8 threatens the equal protection fights of all Californians. A constitutional revision requires a two-thirds vote of the Legislature to begin the process, while an amendment can be placed on the ballot simply by collecting enough voter signatures on petitions, as was the case with Prop 8. Schwarzenegger also urged gay Californians up" on marriage..... equali~.: to "never ever g ire .... "They should be on it and on it until they get it done," he said. Photo: Miss Bamboo 2009 Lady Katherine TULSA, OK __ No prelim, no registration fees, not known for glamour, but an absolute celebration of campy fun with a big heart. That is the Miss Bamboo Pageant. Although this year’s contestants did break with tradition and were quite stylish. Lady Katherine was a bit sleazy with her very revealing Victoria Secret underwear! Votes for each contestant were determined by the amount of money each was given by the audience for their performance. Our House Too of Tulsa ~vas the recipient of this years proceeds of $625.00. Our House Too offers a variety of services for people who are HIV+ or living with AIDS. You can contact them at 918-585-9552 or 203 N. Nogales Ave Tulsa, OK 74127 Conspicuously absent from the entertainment line-up this year was self proclaimed Empress of the Bamboo, Miss Mona Lott and Miss Bamboo 2007 (2 X default) Czarina Rottchacokoffwho’s Hollywood caliber talent was very much missed. December 2008 �Neiman Marcus Gift Idea For Christmas 2008 Limited-Edition Fighter Motorcycle There’s the startling, dare we say sex); design that fuses raw power with crisp simplicity. It’s an evolution of the machine, at once taken back down to its core elements while being reinvented and re-engineered for optimal performance. It’s our street-legal sci-fi dream come to life, in the form of the limitededition Fighter Motorcycle. Ours exclusively courtesy of Confederate Motor Company°, the first ever Fighter packs 190 mph of performance into its cutting edge carbon fiber, titanium, andaluminum chassis~ There’s the 64" wheelbase, 27"H seat, integrated braking system, tots of high-tech bells and whistles, and custom NM edition features. But, honestly, ride it once and you’ll be too jacked up on adrenaline to remember all the details. (To view them in all their glory, go here.) To score one of only 45 of these raw, raging, right on machines, call 1.877.9NM.GIFT. Item Limited-Edition Fighter Motorcycle Price $110,000.00" OCBF9_NMO3594 *Manufacturer’s suggested retail price. Price excludes all taxes, tide, licensing, registration f~es, and transportation costs. Neiman Marcus is acting as the advertiser of this product. All sa]es will be conducted solely by participating, authorized dealers in the United States. Sunday Services @ 11:00 A}4 1623 N. Maplewood Tu{sa, OK Un A Metropolitan Community Church v~.metrostarnews.com 918-838-1715 % w.mcctu sa.org ~®t~oSTAR 9 �Is Gay Marriage A Q,Eestion Of Rights? By Gerald Libonati ~e marriage protection amendment that bans same-sex couples from marrying was on the ballot in three states last Tuesday. It passed in Florida and California by a margin of 52% to 48% with a majority of the precincts counted. In Arizona, a conservative state that once rejected the amendment, it passed by 56% to 44%. [[he results came as no surprise, emphasizing once again that the rights of unpopular minorities should never be put to a popular vote. How many times was the Equal Rights An,~, endment for ~vomen squashed? The first public Womans Rights Convention was held in 1848 west of Syracuse, New York. African-Amlericans did not win equal rights by a popular vote. The country vehemently fought against it. Equality for blacks required an act of Congress. So too, should equal rights for ay men and lesbian women be written into lave, not restricted y it. c Some might feel gay marriage is not a question of rights, yet the expression of religious values is protected by the first amendment. After all, it is a religious Viewpoint that same-sex couples should not be allowed to marry, and it is the spiritual vie~cpoint of gay and lesbian couples (and the mental health community) that homosexuality is a good and valid expression. It is, to be sure, a religious debate as well as one of legal benefits. One can’t help feeling violated every time there is a gay/lesbian issue on the chopping block. It becomes a lightning rod for the religious right to rally agm’nst with their bumper stickers and selbrighteous slurs. How many gay and lesbian people feel battered during times like this? Yet, the struggle for gay rights may be part of a process that has not yet finished. Certainly, the zeitgeist has improved significantly over the years regarding attitudes toward gay/lesbian people. And if it is hard to imagine a time when GLBT people are a part of the Atnerican mainstream, remember it was once hard fbr women and black Americans to imagine, too. Gerald Libonati is an award-winning wrimr in South Florida. He has written for the Sun-Sentinel, 7he Miami Hera~ 7he Advocate and various gay/lesbian newspapo’s. He is the author of the new novel, ’7~eter Wo~" the sto~ ofa famous gay rock star who goes incognito m find love. NO on Prop 8 Campaign Leaders Call on Community to Stand Together SACP,AMENTO, CA (PR) __ Top leaders from the NO on Prop 8 campaign today issued the follmving statement urging leaders in the community to stand together following the passage of Prop 8. "We achieve nothing if we isolate the people who did not stand with us in this fight. We only further divide our state if we attempt to blame people of faith, African American voters, rural communities and others for this loss. We know people of all faiths, races and backgrounds stand with us in our fight to end discrimination, and will continue to do so. Now more than ever it is critical that we work together and respect our differences that make us a diverse and unique society.. Only with that understanding will we achieve justice and equality for all." years now I have heard the ~vord Wmt. It nngs ~n the ear of every Negro with piercing familiarity. This "Wait" has almost always meant Never. We must come to see, with one ofou distinguished jurists, that "justice too long delayed is justice denied." ( http://www.mlkonline.net/jail.html ) Geoff Kors, Executive Director, Equality California Kate Kendell, Executive Director, National Center for Lesbian Rights. Lorri Jean, CEO, Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center Delores Jacobs, CEO, San Diego Gay and Lesbian Center 925 L Street, Suite 1200 Sacramento, CA 95814, As we march, let’s take our chant from the newly-elected President Obama’s campaign, Yes, we can! Time for Waiting is Over -he Time for Action is NOW. By James Nimmo OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__ A recent joint press release from Equality California, National Center for Lesbian Rights, Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center ,,,a,,n~d the San Diego Gay and Lesbian Center is counseling that We achieve nothing if we isolate the people who did not stand with us in this fight. We only further divide our state if we attempt to blame people of faith, African American voters, rural communities arid others for this loss. I disagree completely. No longer, no longer, no longer must religion be used as the cudgel to separate any person from their legal rights of fair treatment and protection under the law. I walked by a religious proselytizer today in downtown Oklahoma City. I hadseen him yesterday when he made a speech for Gee-sus on the bus I was riding. Today, though, he was on the sidewalk and said to me, "Did you know God loves you?" I looked him in the eye for a few seconds and replied, "F*** ofiq.", and walked away. I’ve never acted that way to a stranger before and depending on the perceived physical danger to me, it wofft be the last time I respond to an uninvited encounter with a proselytizer. Religion has and continues to be the major block to the implementation of rights for gay/lesbian citizens because of wh~tt we do in private and who we love in public. Religion ,vas the chain around the necks of slaves, it’s been the chastity belt forced on women’s reproductive choice, and it’s been the Closed book preventing the age-appropriate teaching of responsible sexual information to children. Religion instructs the empty-headed to fear our differentness, to treat us with disrespect and with barely concealed contempt to encourage violence against our property and bodies. Wegays/lesbians are far too complacent, accepting, and willing in our own disenfranchisement from our birth right as citizens. "This has been an incredibly difficult week for Californians who are disappointed in the passage of Proposition 8, which takes away the right to marry for same-sex couples in our state. We feel a profound sense of disappointment in this defeat, but know that in order to move forward we must continue to stand together as one community in order to secure full equality in California. I welcome the peaceful protests in California and elsewhere that are demanding the protection and benefits of the laws that are applied to others but not to us. "In working to defeat Prop 8, a profound coalition banded together to fight for equality. Faith leaders, labor, teachers, civil rights leaders and communities of col0r, Republicans, Democrats, and Independents, public officials, local school boards and city councils, parents, corporate law firms and bar associations, businesses, and people from all walks of life l’oined together to stand up against discrimination. We must build on this coalition in order to achieve equal rights for all Californians. Dr. M. L. King said it best in his "Letter from Birmingham Jail", April 16, 1963 with this paragraph: 10 ~÷troSTAR Our self-appointed equality leaders who counsel shyness and acceptance of a later time should act like leaders or get out of our way. The time is long past for coyness and politeness. X~re know through painful experience that freedom is never voluntarily given b~ the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed. Frankly, I have yet to engage in a direct-action campaign that was "well timed" in the view of those who have not suffered unduly from the disease of segregation. For With the immorally presented kangaroo-court vote that passed Prop 8 in California and with other anti-gay measures in Arizona, Florida, and Arkansas, I think we gays/lesbians have waited long enough. Let the marches continue! numbers. He wanted to say, "thank you" ... for what I have no earthly idea. I unloaded about our local results, but Howard didfft take the bait. His politically correct language has been finely honed from thousands of scathing attacks on each of his utterances. He opined that the economy is much better in Oklahoma than most states and that many other states have a sizable portion of their popul,a,tion tl~at,~ould normally be concerned about leaders who are different than they are. But in those states the economy and the need for change overwhelmed their normal reticence to select someone "unlike" them. Man that guy can talk. While t am fuming, foaming, uttering and mumblin,F, obscenities, he sounds like he just graduated from The vabama School of Cool. So should we do anything? Of course we should. Not just for competitive partisan reasons, but because it’s not good for Oklahoma to run so counter. One national media service recently said bas,,ed on the polls, the future of the Re, publica,n Party lies with old white people and hayseed states. I, dont believe that, but much of me nation does and we dont need to be in that category. Another pundit said that to understand the current Republican Party one has to "understand the unique culture and politics of Appalachia." Are you kidding me? Hayseed states and Appalachia! Call your local chamber and ask them if they think this is somehmv good for us. From a national image it’s a disaster. From a local basis can you imagine how this emboldens Republicans in the state house, now firmly in control of the l~gislature? Do you think we are going to hear much about education, health care and jobs -- or are we simply going to get a double dose of Guns, God, and Gays? Gun sales in Oldahoma skyrocketed immediately prior to the election and particularly afterwards. The vast majority of these Oklahoma voters really believe that Obama -- in addition to not being a Christian, being affiliated with terrorists and intent on doubling our taxes -- is also going to take their guns! What was that comment during the campaign about clinging? So what do we do? Before we start shouting and stepping all over each other like the national Republicans, we should first calmly talk about process. Hmv do we determine what are the highest contributing factors to this unusual trend in Oldahoma? Let’s assume that we can identify with polling and focus groups the top 20 contributing factors, and then perhaps we can identify that half of these we cannot do an) thing about.., but a plan to address the other half may have merit. I have lots ofideas ... but I really have to cool off first. Posted by David Waiters at: http:llreddirtblog.typepad.coml red dirt blog/ December 2008 �Oklahoma Couple Marries Rhis was best shown by the keynote speaker, Stephen Wessler, who directs the Center for the Prevennon of Hate Violence located in Pordand, Maine, and was a former assistant Attorney General in that state was well. He is the author of the book, "The Respectful School," and has received many awards for his work in the area of civil rights. Robbins, 46, and Damon Romine, 42, have been together for nine years and Barrett and David Romine have been together for 16 years. It was believed to be California’s first same-sex double wedding ceremony shared by a father and son. Same-sex marriage became legal in California on June 16, following a Supreme Court ruling, and became illegal again on Nov. 4, following passage of a ballot initiative that amended the state constitution to negate the ruling. Gay groups have filed suit to block the amendment from taking effect. At press time, the State Supreme Court had not ruled on the case, and county officials had stopped issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples. Will & Grace creator marries Photp: Rex Ball, Architect/Urban Designer, a former US Commissioner ofFine Arts and Stephen Edwards, multi-award winning Interior Designer in Oklahoma were mar~ed October 24 in Palm Springs, CA by Mayor Steve Pougnet. The couple has been together for 24 years. Both are originally from Central Oklahoma where they first met. Having also lived in Washington, D.C. the couple settled in Tulsa in 1996. B~th ~e a~tive iii Hist0fi~il PreserVation and have renovated two Tulsa houses for themselves both of which are located in neighborhoods on the National Register of Historic places. In Oklahoma City they renovated the Mid-Century landmark Raymond Carter designed Residence on Barnes Circle which is also visible from Pennsylvania Avenue. OkA¢homa State Attorney Gene~al Drew Edmondson. A speaker at the 2nd Stop Hate in the Hallways Conference. Photo by Hctor Gorin The services were conducted on Friday, October 24 by the Mayor of Palm Springs in the Mid-Century designed City Hall. q-he Mayor hadwritten the words of the service. Witnesses were former Tulsans Mike Green and Jim Trotter also Architect Dan Logan of Palm Springs and Malibu. The couple has 5 daughters and nine grandchildren. Father and son marry partners in He pointed out that serious bullying begins with words. He told of a student (pseudonym John), ~vho was perceived to be gay by 4 male students at his school. At first they talked behind his back, and nobody objected. It escalated to name calling direcdy to John. ~aen it escalated to tripping and shoving in the hall, with no objections or intervention. The following February he ~vas jumped by three boys and severely beaten, and nobody intervened or told an adult. This followed by 3 more similar incidents, including an attempt in the bathroom to put his head in an unflushed toilet, and another incident where a boy put John’s head in a noose and pulled it tight for over 40 seconds. Finally, When one of the boys threatened to shoot John, the threat was overheard by a girl ~vho reported this to school authOrities, Finally the police were called and Mr. Wessler, as a prosecutor with the state hate crimes prosecution unit, finally took action. Ironically, the four boys involved in the harassment were age 12. Although the conference included the issues of GLBT students, it was also inclusive of other forms as ~vell, including those of Islamic students ~vho were harassed (frequently called terrorists), Latinos frequently called "beaners" or "tacos". Other issues included students with disabilities, and other characteristics such as being overweight. Reverend Scott Jones of Oklahoma City’s Cathedral of Hope led a panel discussion of religion and the role it played in harassment, and also those who are victimized. Another workshop conducted by Kathy Middleton with the Oklahoma State Department of Health, showed and demonstrated how bullying could be prevented, and how students & administrators can deal with it. And intervention can’t come too soon, not only for those bullied, but for all Oklahoma students who have the right to a productive, safe education. www.metrostarnews.com Palm Springs double wedding By Rex Wockner Max Mutchnick, a creator and executive producer of TV’s Wilt & Grace, got married to lawyer Erik Hyman on Oct. 25 in Beverly Hills. "We wanted to be a part of the wave of same-sex couples getring married before the election," Mutchnick told The New York Times. ~e couple have been together for two years. They moved in together a week after meeting and have never spent a night apart since. Mutchnick told The Times that Hyman is the most intelligent and confident man he’s ever met, and the only one he’s met who can withstand his insecurities and histrionics. Hyman said he felt hard for Mutchnick’s passion, charm and humor. The couple have two daughters, who were born to a surrogate. California voters ended same-sex marriage in the state Nov. 4, amending the state constitution to say, "Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California." Gay groups have filed suit to block the amendment from taking effect. At press time, the State Supreme Court had not ruled on the case, and county officials had stopped issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples. OKLAHOMA CITY COUPLE WED IN CALIFORNIA Charles Robbins, executive director of ~e Trevor Project, and Damon Romine, director ofentertainment media at the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, got married Nov. 2 in Palm Springs in a double ceremony that also saw Romine’s father, David, marry his parmen La~wy Barrett. From left: Robbins, Damon Romine, David Romine and Barrett. Photo by David A. Lee Charles Robbins, executive director of~he Trevor Project, the national suicide-prevention helpline for gay youth, and Damon Romine, director of entertainment media at the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, got married Nov. 2 in Palm Springs in a double ceremony that also saw Romine’s father, David, marry his partner, Larry Barrett. Kara McCullar & Marlena Weaver demonstrate on Oklahoma City Hall steps. The couple was legally married in California October 20. Photo by Victor Gorin. MetroSTAR 11 �@ Steve’s Hideaway, Tulsa @Club Majestic, Tulsa @Club 209, Tulsa @ Bamboo Lounge, TulSa ..... @ Angles, Oklahoma City @ Finishline, Oklahoma City @ The Ledo, Oklahoma City Community Fellowship "A place where you can be who God created you to be andfi’iends’hips become family" Worship Experience Sundays 5:30p.m. Pastor Neill Spurgin PastorNeih’@ExpressionsOKC.com (40 ) 76 - 7s @ The Copa, Oklahoma City 12 ~w. Express ions OKC. corn Lansbrook Event Center 6009 NW Expressway Oklahoma City, OK December 2008 �On Saturday, Nov. 15, there were coordinated anti,Prop. 8 protests in 300 cities in all 50 states and several other countries at 10.30. a.m. California time, ~lengthy march from San Diego’s Balboa Park to the Count~ 25;000 ~ar~hers, Photo by Re~ Wockne~ On Sa~twday, Nov. 1£ there were huge, coordinated anti-Prop 8 protests across the country at 10:30 a.m. Ca~lifo~ia time. ~is wa~ the stone in San ~,n&co. ~&ner News pbom by Steve 39am the stage to repeate!ly create a~ant rambowflag, to the de@,}t ofnews photographers and cameramen. ter and ~dsa rallied in opposition to California’s Prop S. Arqzona, Florida outlJwed Mardage ~quality an~ Arkansas voted toprobibit GLBT~doption, Saturda November 15, 2008 25,000 str~g mti~Prop 8 grassroots protest in San Di~g0~ �N Wockner News Service Caribbean health offidals call for repeal of buggery laws UK Ministry of Defence paid $6.2 million to sacked soldiers Some government officials in attendance at the recent annual meeting of the Pan Caribbean Partnership Against HIV/AIDS called for repeal of laws that criminalize gay sex as a pathway to slowing the spread of the virus, the Caribbean Media Corporation reported. The United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence has paid $6.2 million to people who were kicked out of the armed forces before the gay ban was lifted in 2000, officials said Nov. 7. "Ifxve repeal the Buggery Act it reduces risky behavior and puts the onus on men who have sex xvith men to act in a responsible way," said Dr. Peter Figueroa, head of the Jamaican Ministry of Health’s AIDS program. "When people see themselves as excluded or discrimihated against and stigmatized, it promotes risky behavior? The health minister of the island nation of Dominica, John Fabien, agreed, saying: "We need to take this to another level, I think the level of prime ministers .... The whole question of men who have sex with men ... we can’t Sixty-five people have been compensated, receiving an average of $96,300 each. "Over the past few years the MoD has made strenuous efforts to reach amicable settlements in relation to those legal claims which remained outstanding and we are pleased that compensation has now been awarded in all these cases;’ a spokesman said. Britain’s armed forces lifted their gay ban on orders from the European Court of Human Rights. Gay couple arrested in Mexico for kissing and hugging UK to give lesbians equal access to fertility treatment Txvo male U.S. citizens were arrested in Playa del Carmen, in Mexico’s Q,~intana Roo state, for kissing and hugging in public, the Mexico City daily E! Universal reported Oct. 22. A controversial bill that passed Britain’s House of Commons Oct. 22, authorizing stem-celt research that implants human cells into animal eggs creating hmnan-animal hybrids, also cleared the way for lesbians to access fertility treatment and for a lesbian couple to be named on a birth certificate as a child’s parents. Eric Schroeder, 22, andJosd Mdndez, 35, were accused of committing "a moral misdeed" (una falta a la moral), jailed for 15 hours and fined 2,000 pesos ($148). Schroeder told the paper that on Oct. 10 the couple was "resolving some differences that we had" and, as they walked out of the house, "there were a few hugs and a kiss out front:’ At that point, police arrived, handcuffed them, then drove them around while they "picked up more people who presumably had committed other crimes," he said. .................. 1 ...."-They, wanted money and realizingthey , bow our heads in the sand and say it do~s no{..... DutCh men convlc~:eG weren t going to get it, they drove us around ’ Schroeder said. happen.and try toI ,villsee howbedriving, ve couldthe getPr°cessthingsbaCkgoingh°me .... gge need to really fall in line mad try to get it off the books." Barbados’ health minister, Dr. David Estwick, asked, "What are we going to do about reaching men who have sex with men when we have laws against their sexual activity in most Caribbean countries. Jamaica’s Figueroa added that when gay sex is stigmatized, "it drives not only the epidemic underground, but it also means that men ~vho have sex with men disguise their sexuality, take on a girlfriend and have sex with women who are unaware that they are really people who have sex with men, and therefore this acts as a bridge in terms of HIV transmission from the gay community." The lneeting was held in Montego Bay, Jamaica. According to Amnesty International, 11 Caribbean-area nations continue to ban gay sex -- Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jmnaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago. of inj ecting sex p ar triers with HIV Two men in Groningen, Netherlands, were convicted Nov. 12 of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm by injecting several men ~vith HIV-infected blood after apparendysedating them during gay sex parties arranged over the Internet. One of the perpetrators, who vcas also convicted of rape, received a nine-year prison sentence and the other was sentenced to five years. The Groningen District Court determined that while all the victims in the case were HIV-positire, there was no way to know if the assaults caused their infections, given that they had willingly participated in barebacking orgies. Resistance in UK to gay adoption Hungarian Parliament passes nexv hate-crime laws A recent ICM Research survey conducted for the United Kingdom’s National Adoption Week revealed a high degree of resistance to adoption by gay couples. Hungary’s Parliamentpassed legislation in early November extending hate-crime laws to cover members "ofa social group" and making it possible to initiate civil proceedings against someone ~vho engages in degrading or intimidating behavior toward another based on "sexual orientation." The poll of 1,007 people found that 40 percent ofth0se questioned think gay male couples should not be allowed to adopt and 36 percent think lesbian couples should be banned from adopting: The changes need the approval of President L~szl6 S61yom and also must be able to withstand possible Constitutional Court challenges. The court previously has struck down socalled hate-speech laws on freedom-of-speech grounds. 14 ~÷troSTAR Susan Cotton, adoption manager for the charity Action for Children, told the BBC the findings xvere "shocking and disappointing." "We have successfully placed children with both gay couples and single people. We know it works," she said. The couple’s eventual incarceration at the main police station ended after they paid a cop a 300-peso fee to take one of their credit cards and withdraw money to pay the 2,000-peso fine, Schroeder said. S P ain’s ueen Sofia hot water with gays Spain’s Q~een Sofia is in hot water with gays after the newspaper H Pals published excerpts Oct. 29 from an upcoming biography of the queen by journalist Pilar Urbano. ha "The Q~_een Up Close" ("La Reina muy de cerca"), Sofia, 69, is quoted as saying: "I can understand, accept and respect that there are persons of other sexual tendencies, but should they feel proud to be gay? Should they ride on a parade float and come out in demonstrations ? ffall of those of us who aren’t gay came out in protest we would halt traffic." She went on: "If those persons want to live together, dress up as bride and groom and marry, they could have a right to do so, or not, according to the laws of their country, but they shouldn’t call dais matrimony, because it isfft. q-here are many possible names: social contract, union contract? Spain is one of six countries where same-sex couples have access to full marriage. A royal spokesperson conaplained that the quotations are not "exactly" accurate. The State Federation of Lesbians, Gays, Transse~uals and Bisexuals demanded that Sofia recant her reported statements. The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill passed the House of Commons 355-129 and is unlikely to be further modified before becoming law. "We’ve always thought it scandalous that lesbian couples could lawfully be excluded from the safety of (National Health Service) clinics, for which we all pay," said Ben Summerskill, chief executive of leading gay lobby group Stonewall. "Often they’ve been forced to use unregulated backstreet services instead? ,, Children in lesbian and gay families develop in exactly the same social and intellectual way as any others," he said. "This latest step forward for our communities is an important reminder that lesbian and gay families are every bit as loving and tender and magical as any other." Irish president condemns Speaking at a GLBT youth forum in Galway on Oct. 30, Irish President Mary McAleese condemned anti-gay bullying. "Homophobic bullying continues to be a societywide issue, including in our schools, and the link between it and suicide sends a clear message that this trend must be reversed," she said. "By refusing to go along with loudly voiced prejudices, we can overcome the bias and hostility experienced by many young gay people throughout the country." McAleese also said people don’t choose to be gay but rather discover that they’re gay. Australian de facto couples who split to be treated as divorced Australia’s Senate passed a bill Oct. 16 to treat unmarried couples who break up the same as married couples who divorce. The measure, which was returned to the lower house for approval of Senate anaendments, will create a uniform national standard for separating de facto coupmsles, gay and straight, sendin g them to federal family-law courts to work out property settlements, pension splits and other Issues. Attorney-General Robert McClelland said the changes are "long overdue." December 2008 �"In my junior high school years at Wilson Jr. High I delivered the Tulsa Daily "World morning paper on horseback for three years on what was then a two lane country road called Yale Ave. I had to quit riding horseback because the customers of a new housing development called "White City" complained that my horseback deliveries was tearing up their beautiful yards. I graduated in the 10th graduating class of Will Rogers High Schoo! in 1949." "The start of my dancing career was 1950 ~vhen I joined the new qfillsa Opera Ballet. ~-his was the time when opera companies retrained a Corps de Ballet and operettas were popular. ~l~.e Tulsa Opera_ Ballet would practice in the ballroom of Richard Mansfield Dickenson’s home on Riverside Drive and F!ouston Ave., which is now known as the Spotlight Theater on Riverside Dr. "t received a scholarship in 1952 to study dance with the "Ruth St. Denis Dance Foundatioff’ in Hollywood. While I was there I also studied ballet and jazz at the "Eugene Loring School of Ballet. M1 of the great dancers of the Holly~vood musicals of the 50’s would teach in their idle time at Loring’s studio, t was honored to take classes with some of Hollywood’s best. I was accepted with 150 other dancers in the Chorus of"On the Rivera" staring Danny Kaye and the Great "Gwen -Verdoff’. However, I nm~er made it to the final Audition because my dance career was interrupted in 1953 with a draft call from UNCLE SAM. Thinking my dance career was oveI; ! found it was just beginning." but I had to work the next day. I took a shower to wash the gold pigment away and my hair turned green! I went to work and was ridiculed, LOL, the boy with the green hair." "In 1956 1 began dancing with the "Tulsa Civic Ballet" today knmvn as Tulsa Ballet Inc. I danced the premier of The Nutcracker and also performed the first Dr. Coppelius In Tulsa at the Municipal Theater today our Lady on Brady I also danced in the first two summer musicals with the "Tulsa Little Theater" at the 15th and Delavcare Playhouse." She could er my given name. She what my name was and \ in his usual vivacious reply said "just// ke C LO G GERB I //, Because volunteer dancing could not sustain me financially, I went to work for American Airlines in 1955. In 1961 American decided to move their finance department to NYC where they purchased their first computer. This was my opportunity to see hmv the professionals dance in the Big Apple. Let me tell you, I was just a little worm in the Big Apple. What a culture shock, nobody does volunteer dancing in New York. Everyone is a union professional. ! realized my love of country folk music, bluegrass and clogging there. I studied with the International School of Dance one semester. I realized dogging was what I wanted to dance the rest of my life. Isn’t is ironic? I fell in love with dogging in ]"FYC and had it all around me growing up in Tulsa. I returned home to Tulsa after 13 years in New York and spent all my free time attending clogging classes and workshops. The IGRA had become very popular with clogging teams throughout the U.S. and Tulsa. I attended a fund-raiser for OGRA in 1987 at "STROKES" and saw the renowned "Bunkhouse Cloggers" from Oklahoma City perform. I was so excited and impressed to see a rodeo clogging team that I wanted to form one from Tulsa for OGRA. Thus the "GREEN COUNTRY CLOGGERS" ~vere born in 1988. The Green Country- Cloggers became famous from the Mississippi west to Los Angeles, dogging to standing ovations in Oklahoma City, Dallas, Phoenix, Denver, Los Angles, Kansas, Joplin and Tulsa..We performed for two seasons at Tulsa Mayfest and the Bluegrass/Chilifest. Photo: Bill Franc#co served in the A4ilimry 1953-1955 "My tour of duty took me to the occupation forces in Augsburg, Germany. I was blessed! They allowed me to continue my volunteer dancing for tile kindergarten kids in West Germany." "I was honored for nay volunteer dancing in Germany by becoming the only American awarded a medal by the city of "Augsburg at the 1954 Fashing Festival. They even wrote a nice article about me in the Augsburg newspaper which was in Get,nan and I didn’t understand a word of it. I sent it home to my mother in NAsa and she gave it to the Tulsa \Vorld to interpret and they published it in English in the Tulsa World Sunday Mar. 21, 1954." "Rett,rning home to Tialsa in 1955, I again auditioned for the renowned Tulsa Opera. I landed the leading male dancer, all with gold pigment and Crisco! I was beautiful (like an Oscar) ,~w.metrostarnews.com When the Green Country Cloggers moved their practices to Tulsa’s Silver Star for bigger dance space we were doing a big fund-raiser to raise money to take the cloggers to Los Angeles ~br a rodeo performance. Our Mistress of Ceremonies was a eighteen year old (not old enough for the bar) known as KA~S KOHL. To this day in 2008, Kris Kohl has done more benefits and fun&raisers than any other entertainer in Tulsa and she is the real legend of this community. Our music maestro, arranger, recording artist and D. J. from the cloggers conception in 1988 was Ron Greenwood. Thank you Quake for all your loyalty and contributions to the cloggers. Kris Kohl was to introduce my solo. She could not remember my given name. She asked Qtmke what my name was and in his usual vivaciotrs reply said "just call him CLOGGERBILL" And from that time on, fbr 18 years, to the birth of"Santa, I have been known as "CLOGGERBILL" Now I’ve forgotten my real n~e. class at the community center. They asked if I would dress as Santa and clog for the kids at their Children’s Christmas Party, of course I said yes. That was the birth of"Santa Clog". The kids just loved Santa Clogging and a lot of adults also. The next year I created my own Santa Suit, and started growing nay own beard with theatrical white wash. Since I’ve performed hundreds of Santa Clog benefits over the past ten years. It was so much fun (because I’m such a ham), that’s when I decided I wanted to be the real Santa for the rest of my life. In 2004 1 entered "SANTA_" in the Grand Lake dogging championship in Grove, Oklahoma. I had worked so hard on the choreography that I pinched the ~ciatic nerve in my left hip and neuropathy begin to set in. But I kept going. I knew I had to win that competition before I could qualify for National World Competition. I did win mad took 1st place in that show. I guess when you stop your career, you should always stop at the top, when everyone knows who you are, not what you were. I tried to do a couple more Santa Clog benefits in 2005 but my leg was in such pain I could not continue. I then had lower back surgery and the severe pain was gone but the neuropathy would not go away. I would like to thank my two very best friends for sticking by me and helping me through this crisis. Mr. Paul: (aka), Helga. another community legend of spirit, giving, benefits and caring, for getting me the best surgeons, standing by me thru surgery and coming by my home on his way to ~vork every day to wash my ass and change my bandages. Arnie XWard, for taking so much time offwork to take me back and forth from exams, doctors and hospitals. SANTA loves you both so dearly. I would not have survived without you. No~v Santa only does children benefits, private corporate parties and my favorite adult bars: N0 eio~ng; just takAng pictures, giving out pre~ents havi@ ~ iittl~ ~,~ arid .... loving every moment. Now I am one of the most sought after Santa’s in Tulsa. I begin getting requests for appearances in July for the December season. Santa has appeared in four magazine and six newspaper articles. Someday I dream of Santa dancing again in the spirit of the season. From 1937 to 2004 (67 years) I have danced over 350 performances, benefits and fund-raisers for the Tulsa and su> rounding communities. I was actually paid union wages for one show. The Vandever’s summer fa~shion show at Southern Hills Country Club about 30 years ago. So, if you divide the $50.00 into 350 performances, I have been paid just about .07 cents per performance. Does that make me a professional volunteer? I would like to take this opportunity to let the world know how very much I appreciate all the support and devotion of good friends, entertainers and bar~8~ners (past and present) for helping me do what I love best, DANCE !! As Santa said when he rode out of sight, Happy Holidays and to all a Good Night ! I left the Green Country Cloggers in the capable hands of the worlds best Leather Clogger "Gene West" who took the cloggets to new heights. I formed the "OK Country Cloggers" from other Cloggers around Tulsa. We performed benefits for Tulsa Opera at Cains Ballroom and Tulsa Ballet Inc, at Harwellen. The OK Country Cloggers quickly dwindled into a trio competition team. The Ok Country Cloggers had performed for two seasons for "Black Gold Days" in Glenpool. I was teaching a clogging ~etroSTAR 15 �QEe’ Syrah, Syra :: Celebrate the holidays with a cool red wine Brief history For most wine lovers, as we talk about Syrah or Shiraz; two specific places of the xvorld come tO mind: Rh6ne Valley in France and Australia. Syrah is found in other wine regions of the ~vorld, though- California, Italy and South Africa- hmvever the reference areas of this grape are still considered France and Australia, each being identifiable for its particular style. Of course, of the two regions, the one having a longer tradition is the Rh6ne Valley, whereas in Australia, Syrah - or Shiraz, as it is commonly known in the land of kangaroos - has a history shorter than two centuries. ~ais grape may not be commonly associated with the holidays like other red wines, however, this varietal rates highly among the most elegant, tastefhl and food friendly wines. To that end, I recommend that we consider adding a bottle or two to our wine shopping list for this season. We have much to celebrate and sharing wine & food with friends & family is the best thingwe can do. The northern part of the Rh6ne Valley, in France, remains one of tl~e undisputed reference point.s for the production of wines made with the Syrah grape. The best examples of varietal Syrah, are the ones produced with the appellations Hermitage, C6te-R6tie, Cornas, St-Joseph and Crozes-Hermitage. Wines produced in these areas have Strong fruit aromas, a good acidity, dry body and an appreciable mineral taste. Hermitage has a deep color and intense fruit aromas, in particular black currant, full body and evident astringency. Syrah is also common in the southern part of Rh6ne Valley and it is used in Ch~teauneuf-du-Pape This months recipe courtesy of: Directions: Ogunquit, Main About 4 hours before ser~,ing: Remove giblets and neck from goose. Refrigerate giblets and neck to use in soup another Discard fat from body cavity; rinse goose with running cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Fasten neck skin to the back with 1 or 2 skewers, With goose breast-side up, lift wings up toward neck, then fold under back of goose. With string. tie legs and tail together. With fbrk, prick goose skin in several places. Place goose, breast-side up, on rack in open roasting pan. Rub goose with 2 teaspoons salt. Insert meat thermometer into thickest part of meat between breast and thigh, being careful tha pointed end of thermometer does not touch bone. Roast goose in 350 degree oven about 3 hours. Start &ecking for doneness during last 30 ~ninutes of roasting goose. Christmas Goose With Cabbage t frozen goose (12 pound size), thawed salt 1 medium sized head red cabbage I medium sized head green cabbage 1 medium sized onion 1 large green cooking apple 1 package (8 ounce size) sliced bacon 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar 2 teaspoons sugar 1 teaspoon caraway seeds 1/4 cup currant jelly 2 tablespoons &T marsala wine 16 #~®troSTAR ’04- Oregon Slammer ’06- California (which translates as New Castle common in southern Languedoc-Roussillon blended with Grenache Noi C Syrah fro aromas of black pepper associated with wines Trinity Pousseur ’06- California to emit often to your favorite wine purchase a bottle or ~d & wine with friends and r yourself. area. Food parings Syrah is a good turkey or ham F ’ " who knew ? We always think Pinot best red wine choice. A lot may hinge on the way your meat is prepared. Appetizers with veggies or cheeses with a sharp like flavor can also pair ~vell. This writer also bar tends and hosts wine & food events known in town as the Wine Enthusiasts of Tulsa. www.~neSpectato~:com www.Foodand~ne.com ............. www.~Vikipedia.org slotted spoon, remove bacon to paper travels to drain. In bacon fat in saucepan over medium heat, cook green cabbage, onion, caraway seeds, and I teaspoon salt until cabbage and onion are very tende}, about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally; keep warm, About 20 minutes before goose is done, in small saucepan, heat red currant jelly and marsala. Brush goose occasionally with idly mixture. Goose is done when thermometer reaches 180 degrees to 185 degrees and thickest part of leg feels sof~ when pressed ~th fingers protected by paper towels. When goose is done, remove skewers and string. Linep,latter with reserved red and green cabbage leaves. Place goose on cabbage leaves: let stand 10 minutes for easier carving. Spoon red and green cabbage on platter with goose. Mier goose has roasted fbr I hour. prepare red andgreen, cabbage’, reserve fi.~v outer leaves of red and green cabbage for garnish. Slice red and green cabbage and onion; dice apple; cut bacon into 1/2 inch pieces, it into a In 12-inch skillet over medium- lmv h~r. cook half of bacon until browned. With slotted spoon, remove bacon to paper towels to drain. In bacon tht in skillet over medium heat, cook red cabbage, apple, red wine vinegar, sugm; and 1 teaspoon salt until cabbage is very tender, about 25 minutes. stirring occasionally; keep warna. Meamvhile, in ~-quart saucepan over medium-low heat, cook remaining bacon until browned.iWith )resence Jonathaffs Restaurmat Bourn ~ December 2008 �Trace Adkins At the BOK Center, Tulsa INSIDE HOLLYWOOD Deep Inside Hollywood, which reports on new projects for Nicole Kidman and Jane Fonda By Romeo San Vicente Fonda Returns to Broadway with Moises Kaufman TRACE ADKINS with special guests: Craig Morgan & Jason Michael Carroll Tickets On Sale Oct 3 @ 10am Ticket Prices: $52 and $42 When Trace Adldns appears on stage, his towering presence and floor-shaldng baritone instantly energizes the crowd. With a string of hits spanning more than a decade like "Honky Tonk Badonkadonk; "Hot Mama," "I Got lVly Game On," and "Ladies Love Country Boys;’ and his powerful, heart-stirring ballads like "I’m Tryin;’ "Arlington;’ "Every Light In The House;’ and "I Came Here To Live;’ Adldns takes his audience on a roller coaster ride of emotions. Cirque du SoleiFs Saltimbanco Dec 10, 2008 to Dec 14, 2008 at BOK Center Cirque du Soleil’s Saltimbanco December 10th at 7:30 December 1 lth at 7:30 December 12th at 3:30 & 7:30 December 13th at 3:30 & 7:30 December 14th at 1:00 & 5:00 Ticket Prices:S97, $77, $62, and $42 Group tickets: For groups of+20 or more receive 10% offyour tickets, group discounts do not apply to Friday or Saturday show times. For group tickets please call 918-894-4252 Cirque du Soleil weaves its magic in Tulsa for the first time with Saltimbanco. Saltimbanco is the very first "classic" Cirque du Soleil touring show to be presented in arena. The Saltimbanco arena tour, proudly presented by iShares, will performed 8 shows at the BOK Center from December 10 to 14 inclusively. December At ~lhe P.A.C. Tulsa Performance Dates 3 FREE Brown Bag It: Tulsa Festival Ringers John H. Williams Theatre 4-28 FREE Artist Janet Duvall PAC Gallery 5 Available by Subscription Tina Brown Chapman Music Hall I View Interactive Seating Chart 6 BUY Christmas with TOC Chapman Music Hall I View Interactive Seating Chart 11-14, 16-23 BUY A Christmas Carol John H. Williams Theatre Dec 12-t4, 19-21 _ Wind in the Willows, Charles E. Norman Tl~eatre Dec 12-14, 17-20 BUY The Santaland Diaries, Liddy Doenges ~eatre Dec 13-14, t8-21 BUY The Nutcracker (Tulsa) Chapman Music Hall She’s a producer, memoirist, exercise guru, and multi-Oscar-winning actress, but fihn legend Jane Fonda’s roots go all the way back to Broadway. And while she hasn’t strutted and fretted her hour upon the stage since the early 1960s, Fonda is preparing her return to the Great White Way in a new play ~vritten and directed by Moises Kaufman, the gay writer behind "The Laramie Project". "33 Variations" focuses on a musicologist (Fonda) and her study of Beethoven’s obsession with a particular piece of music. Fonda hasn’t been completely absent from the stage--in recent years, she:s participated in several one-night-only special presentations of Eve Ensler’s "The Vagina Monologues". Get ready for New York to be abuzz when the woman who was Barbarella returns to Broadway this winter. Landon’s Career Remains Hot with "Burning Palms" "Burning Pahns" may sound like a clothing-optional gay resort, but it’s actually the new film written and directed by Christopher Landon, the openly gay son of TV legend Michael Landon. On the heels of Christopher’s success as the co-writer of the hit "Disturbia", dais Holl)-a,ood legacy returns with a new satire that pokes fun at the residents of various segments of Los Angeles, and "Burning Palms" boasts an interestingly eclectic ensemble. Slated to star in the fihn are Dylan McDermott, Shannen Doherty, Lake Bell, Nick Stahl, Zoe Saldana, Adriana Barraza ("Babel"), Colleen Camp and Rosamund Pike. They’ll play characters whose storylines overlap in five different vignettes set in different L.A. neighborhoods. Vditch for the smoke in 2009. Kidman and Tneron Go Out [’or "Danish" Nicole Kidman and Chadize Theron both won Oscars for playing lesbians and for ~vearing fake noses--in "The Hours" mad "Monster", respectively--but the mind reels about what kind of prostheses will be required for their next movie. "The Danish Girl" will star the duo as real-life artists Einar and Greta Wegener. Einar (Yddman) began life as a man but later became the world’s first transsexual in 1931; Einar’s road to womanhood began xvhen he stood in for a female model in a painting that Greta (Theron) was creating. Anand Tucker ("Shopgirl", "Hilary and Jackie") will direct from Lucinda Coxon’s adaptation of David Ebershoff’s book. Look for Kidman and Theron to astound the world almost as much as the real Wegeners did, when "Tne Danish Girl" eventually hits theaters. Soon, We’ll MI Be "Spartacus" The smash success of"300" put muscular, leggy men in togas back on the ctfltural radar, and "Xena" exec producer Sam Raimi (who directed some obscure art films with "Spider-Man" in the tide) intends to keep them there. Raimi is one of the driving forces behind "Spartacus", a new series for the Starz cable channel that centers around a legendary slave rebellion against the Roman Empire. Insiders say the show will shoot for the same intense violence and distinctive graphic-novel look of both "300" and "Sin City", so Romeo figures that means lots of oiled up, brawny lugs fighting each other to the death in leather miniskirts. And that’s good TV! "Spartacus" starts shooting in New Zealand at the beginning of the year ~vith an eye to unfurling its muscular majesty on Starz next summer. More ENTERTAINMENT see page 20 www.metrostarnews.com N~troSTAR 17 �entire country, we want to thank the gays and lesbians in California for fighting this batde for us. And keep fighting until we win! by Donald Pile and Ray Williams GAY TRA¥ LER’S, BOYCOTT UTAH "Morman Church Millions Help Pass Prop 8" EUREKA SPRINGS, AR (PR) __ In one of the slowest economic periods in recent memory, and at a time when other tourist destinations are experiencing downturns, this Ozarlcs getaway is doing remarkably well. things "right", it is time for the rest of gays and lesbians in the rest of the country to do what they can to help. So secondly; we are telling our readers to BOYCOTT UTAH ! Salt Lake City is the world headquarters of the Mormons and the Mormon’s account for about 62% of the population of Utah. Tourism brings in about $6 billion a year to Utah. They have ~vorld-class skiing, the film festival among many, things. Thousands of Mormons worked as volunteers and spent tens of millions of dollars on Proposition 8. Photo: Salt Lake CiF Temple M1 travelers have a choice ..... a choice as to where to go, where to stay, where to dine and where to visit. A few years ago the state of Colorado made some very bad decisions and thousands and thousands of both business as well as personal travelers made the choice NOT to visit or spend any money in that state. The state was financially hurt terribly by that boycott as conventions and business meetings were canceled. Fortunately the state mended its ways and now the gay community has once again started visiting the state. We are extremely" proud of the fact that Colorado elected the first openly gay congressman, Jared Polls. He was certainly the best person for that position. And now we come to Proposition 8. As one of the nearly 20,000 gay couples who were LEGALLY married this summer, we were devastated with the results on Nov. 4. Since we do not live in Cali~brnia we are not able to attend any of the rallies and protest marches but our readers from around the country have sent us dozens and dozens ofemails asking what they can do. We have told them two things. First, GO to California, spend money with those ~vho are wanting our business. There are thousands of straight owned businesses in California who are on our side. There are thousands of gay mvned businesses who have worked hard on defeating Proposition 8 as well as thousands and thousands of gays and lesbians who went door to door and worked tirelessly. They are all to be conm~ended highly. They did not sit idly by and just hope for a victory. They worked long and hard. So as the gays and lesbians who live in California take to the streets and protest and march and do whatever that they can to have the California Supreme Court step in and make 18 ~÷troSTAR Eureka Springs Tourism Increases Despite Tough Economic Times Mayor Dani Joy’s o~ce reports that receipts f~r Eureka Springs city sales t~es have increased, year-to-date, 2.36% over last year. Meanwhile, City Advertising and Promotion Commission figures reflect an even larger improvement. Operations Manager Sheila Hulsey said 2008 C.A.EC. tax collections year-to-date are up 9.6% over the same period in 2007. Photo: Golden Gate B,;idge San Francisco. Califo,saia’sflght against Prop 8failed on November 4 mobilizing hundreds ofthousands who held protest rallies around the world. Visit California. As just one gay couple out of the nearly 20,000 gay couples who were LEGALLY married this summer in California, we resent the Mormon Church’s involvement in our civil rights. Is it okay they can have 10 spouses, but yet deny us to have just one ? Mormon spokesmen say that they had a right to do ~vhat they did. \Ve also have a right to do what we are doing, ha 2008 you just cannot take away anybody’s civil rights and expect not to get a backlash. You cannot take away our legal marriage and get away with it. No, NO, NO ! No matter what state you live in, BOYCOTT the Mormon Church but by all means BOYCOTT the entire state of Uta!! Don’t go there, don’t spend your gay dollars there, don’t purchase anything from any company that is based in Utah. There will be plenty of listings of businesses who gave money for Proposition 8. Boycott them all! The gaypress in California Photo: Echo Lake Denver; CO. Fortunately Colorado mended has done and will continue to do it’s ways and now the gay community has once again started a fabulous job of keeping all of us visiting the state. informed about Proposition 8. This is not just a California story, but a story for the entire country. With Barack Obama becoming the first African-American President of the country it wotfld have been nice to think that prejudices were going to be a thing of the past. However the Mormon Church proved us wrong about that. Hate still does exist and mainly in the eyes of the Mormon Church. Mayor Joy believes several factors are respon;ibte for the city’s strong economic showing in the face of national financial turmoil. "First of all, our community has come together this year in a coordinated effort to make the tourist’s stay in Eureka Springs the best it can be. "And, simultaneously, we’ve done a better iob of marketing ourselves." Tne mayor also cited high gas pr!ces as afactor. "When gas was near!y" $4 a gallon, travelers saved money by staying closer to home." She continued, "Some chose a domestic vacation instead of taldng an overseas flight. Many others picked a destination within a few hours drive over one a few days away." Joy also believes Eureka Springs’ relatively inexpensive lodging and meals have helped the city grow while other tourist destinations have declined. "We’re quite a bargain compared to the larger, glitzier vacations spots," she said. Finally, the city’s quiet, relaxing feel could be a factor. "When you come here you feel like you’ve stepped back in time," the mayor stated. "We have Victorian homes, locally owned shops in an historic downtown, and no stop lights or mega-malls. We’re a very refreshing escape from the rat race--and, especially these days, people value that!" Once October figures are received by the city and the C.A.P.C., Chamber of Commerce President Jeff Feldman believes they will shove an even larger improvement. "Most of our members say they’re having an excellent month," he commented. ’~md several business owners have told me they’ve had their biggest days and weekends in history." For info on Eureka Springs, contact Ken Rundel, CAPC, P.O. Box 522, Eureka Springs, AR, 72632. 479-253-7333 ken@eurekasprings.org On behalf of millions of gays throughout the December 2008 �www.metrostarnews.com #~®troSTAR 19 �OKC Civic Center Music Hall December Events Nov. 28 - Dec. 20 A NICE FAMILY GATHERING a comedy by Phil Olson Nov. 28- Dec. 21 ROMEO &JULIET Dec. 4 - Dec. 6 A VERY MERRY POPS presented by the Oklahoma City" Philharmonic Dec. 5 - Dec. 21 THE JUNGLE BOOKby Rudyard Kipling, adapted by Rick and Erin Cheek Dec. 5 - Dec. 21 A TUNA CHRISTMAS by Ed Howard, Joe Sears and Jaston Williams Dec. 6 - Dec. 7 THE NUTCRACKERpresented by the Tulsa Ballet Dec. 7 CANTERBURY CHRISTMAS Dec. 11 CARLOS MENCIA Dec. 12 John Prine with Iris DeMent Dec. 13 - Dec. 21 THE NUTCRACKER - OI<C Ballet CompaW Photo afMike P~,or in American ~eatre Co’s produ~:tion ~se Santaland Diaries. Photo by Michad Ervin, Ervin Productions. TULSA, OK (PRy __ The Santaland Diaries, a merrily subversive t~ale, is David Sedaris’ humorous and acerbic acconnt of working as an elf at Macy’s in Manhattan. It has become an ’anti-holiday’ cult classic. NPR humorist and best-selling author David Sedaris made his comic debut reading his "Santaland Diaries" on National Public Radio’s Morning Edition. Sedaris’ sardonic humor and incisive social critique have since made him one of NPR’s most popular and humorous commentators. In 2001, Sedaris became the third recipient of the Thurber Prize for American Humor, and was named by Time magazine as "Humorist of the Year." Website- www.lo iecomics.com E-Mail- KylesBnB(~aol.com bitter girl The Santdand Diaries runs December 12th through 20th in the Doenges Tneatre of the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. Curtain time is at 8:15 PM xvith matinees at 2:15 PM. Tickets at MyTicketO~ce.com, area Reasor’s stores, at the Performing Arts Center at 3rd and Cincinnati, or chage by phone a 596-7111. emalh bittergirl@qsyndicate.com 20 December 2008 �by Jack Fertig December 2008 "Be playfut, Libra,"" Mercury is in Sagittarius stimulating talking, so work on listening. He’s tripping through aspects first to Uranus and Chiron, offedng healing through inspiration and wild experiments, then to Saturn, Neptune, and Eris, offering ways to either protect or unblock tribal notions and boundaries, especially across religious/spiritual barriers. It’s a good chance to get through to fundies in the family. ARIES (March 20-Apri~ 19): Some of the craziest ideas from your wildest dreams will have some practical application. They will need some work. Hash it out with a few friends to see how those wacky notions can fit in the real world. TAURUS (AprR 20 - May 20): How do social pressures influence your sexual autonomy? Playing with others necessarily requires some compromises, but you’re entitled to stand up for yourself. You may want to hold back on the impulse and negotiate a more fulfilling position. GEMiNi (May 21- June 20): To reconcile problems with a partner or colleague, try exploring entirely new ideas. What you eventually do work out can inspire fu[ther innovations to provide a new ~roach to long-standing problems at home. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 20): You’re even more loquacious than usual, but that can help heal old family problems. Work problems are more complicated, but keep talking. Focus creative, competitive playfulness towards achieving your ambitions. CAPRICORN (December 2t - January 19): Let your mind wander a bit. Discuss the crazier dreams and ideas that emerge with a friend. Letting yourself sound a bit weird can prove valuable. You don’t have to agree with old-fashioned notions, but study them well to develop a clearer argument against them. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): Your friends are used to your weird side so don’t be shy. Revealing some of your wilder fantasies can prove therapeutic, maybe for them as well. Airing those notions can also help you clarify your sexual.boundaries. PISCES (February 19 - March t9): Some of your ambitions are unrealistic; talk privately with a boss or some expert to develop clearer goals. Then take time out to consider what you need to do to improve your relationship. Never mind your partner’s faults. What do _you_ need to do? CANCER (June 21- July 22): Sexuality can be healing, catalyzing new ideas - especia!ly when you try something new! Open yourself up to exploring fantasies. The oneg that are hardest to verbalize will teach you tocommunicate in new ways. LEO {July 23 - August 22): Casual jests can be unintentionally hurtful. Be ready to apologize, and to learn something in the process. Your humor will be handier when grappling with arguments that leave you wondering What’s really important. Balancing sympathy and logic is the tdck! VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Cleaning house can help solve problems with your partner, or just bring up problems that have been hidden. Keep up the effort even if it means an argument. The make-up sex will be terrifi!! LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): Trying to be logical at work will backfire. Be playful and allow yourself to be inspired. Playing competitively with others can bdng out some long-hidden demons. Open discussion and humor can exorcise them once and for all. SCORPIO (October 23- November 2t): Set aside some money for impulse spending, but keep the receipts! Arguments with friends are especially likely, but keep in mind that these are people you have to live and work with. Keep your disagreements civil and your ego under control. ww-w.metrostarnews.com MCCo METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES Rev Steve T. Urie Spidt0fChdst MCC 2902 E20~ S~t J0plin, M0~04 417-52~84~ W0mhip Saturdays at 10:00 AM C0mmun~ Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM MCC of the Living Spdng t7 Bk SHeet Eureka S~gs, AR 72632 479-25~9337 W0mhip Sundays at 6:00 PM Have a God filled and BleSSed Day! #~etroSTAR 21 �KING OF MASSAGE Great Touch Man to Man Fu!t Body Massage 2 hands or 4 hands available Now Hiring Male & Female Keller Williams Realty Chuck Breckenridge ~rhether buying or selling I’!1 work bard for you. lo800o535oAIDS (2437) Oklahoma’s HlVlSTB Hotline Creating Oomm u nity for People ~iving with H~V/A~DS 501 c (3) No~-I pi:ofit Orga~zatlon Our House, Too offers a variety of activities for people who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS to help combat the social isolation that l~nany of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HtV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves. VVe invite anyone who ~zould like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail ourhouseloo9865@sbcglobal.net [] WVg,r~TgZ M ET RO S TA R2q EVgS .COM 22 {~*~{?troSTAR December 2008 �Support those who support us. Their ads allow us to distribute your community news FREE to you. HABANA INN 2200 1"-,I%z 39TH EXPRESSV/AY Oklahoma City, OK 405-528-2221 ,a~,vw.habanainn.com Fd~LLY KIRBY, CPA 4815 S. I-IMRVARD, SUITE 424 Tulsa, OK * 918-747-5466 Cerdfied Public Accountant VALERIE WILLIFORD 625 N.~. I3th Street Oklahoma City, OK 405-226-8585 OKC MORTUARY 2415-C N. WALNUT AVE. Oklahoma City, OK 800-913-1310 ANGLES 2117 NW 39th St. Oklahoma Cig; OK ww~v.anglesclub.com BAMBOO LOUNGE 7204 E. PINE Tulsa OK ...... ..... 918-836:8700 ........................ wv,~v.gambooloungetulsa.com HOPE TESTING CLINIC 3540 E. 31st Tulsa, OK 800-535-2437 Oklahoma’s HIV/STD Hotline SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC 2902 E. 20TH STREET, Joplin, MO * 479-529-8480 Service Saturday 9:30 AM MCC of the LIVING SPRING 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Wbrship Sundays 6pm MCC LFNITED 1623 N. Maplewood, Tulsa, OK 918-838-1715 ,a~ovw.mcctulsa.org OPENARMS YOUTH PROJECT 2015 -B S. Lakewood Tulsa, OK 74112 918-838-7104 ,~vw. openarmsproject.org CHUCK BP~CKENRIDGE Keller Williams Realty Tulsa, OK 918-706-1887 GAY BRADY HEIGHTS-Tulsa New and Historic Homes for and Rent For Info: www.gaybradyheightstulsa.com GUSHER’S RESTAURANT 2200 I,~V 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 Located inside Habana Inn TOM & JERRYS 1501 N.W. 23RD Oklahoma City, OK 405-524-9100 0 OUR HOUSE, TOO 203 N. Nogales Ave Tulsa, OK 74127 918-585-9552 >> KING OF MASSAGE In or Out Calls Oldahoma City, OK 405-314-3898 CLUB 209 209 N. BOULDER Tulsa, OK ~18-584-9944 CLUB MAJESTIC 124 N. BOSTON Tulsa, OK 918-584-9494 www.clubmajestictutsa.com FINISHLINE 2200 I’~77 39TH EXPRESSWAY OHahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 xwzw.habanainn.com STEVES HIDEAV/AY LOUNGE 11730 E. llTH Tulsa, OK 918-437-0449 Open Sun- Sat 2pro to 2am THE COPA 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE END UP 5336 E. ADMIRAL PLACE Tulsa, OK 918-836-0915 THE LEDO 2200 I’,IW 39TH EXPRESSVc’AY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com EXPRESSIONS Comm Fellowship 6009 NW Expressway Oklahoma City, OK 405-761-1878 ~a~a~v.exp ressionsOKC.com www.metrostarnews.com CENTURY 21 GOLD CASTLE 3627 NW- EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405-840-2106 www.c2 tgoldcastle.com L ~ L ~ R A A N I N A R "A C R H E E $ E A A P 0 L A N A R $ T A $ A AB L ! V E ! N AG A T N E ¥ 0 D 0 W A D U P R ! O RE S S E E S A $ T 0 N Og RO AR GA N $ N®troSTAR 23 �� Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data magazine Text Any textual data included in the document ~NWW.METROSTARNEWS.COM "WE DELIVER DIVERSITY" DECEMBER 1, 2008 life and times ofan OHahoma legend. ByMetro StarStaff WoCkmer News Service Photo) Bill Francisco,~Clogger Bill, haspofarmed over 350 b~efits andfundraisenfor the ~dsa and surrounding Communities since !93Z In the beginning, God created heaven and earth and Bill Francisco on September 5, 1931. He was born in the middle of the Great Depression. His Mother and Dad were Portuguese farmers, poor as the dirt they farmed. His job until school years was pulling weeds in the garden. "My career started when I was six ),ears old. I was in the 1st grade in Tulsgs Longfellow Hementary Schoo! at sixth and Peoria. We did a fund-raiser for the school. They staged still life portraits of Oklahoma history. I was selected as the young boy in the Ponca City.statue of The Pioneer Woman for my very first on-stage performance. Playing a statue, I had to stand perfectly still and not move for three minutes! The most difficult thing in the world for a six year old boy to do is stand still! I wanted to do such a good job, every night when the curtain went up, I would hold my breath the full three minutes so I wouldn’t move a muscle and be the perfect statue, but of course I almost passed out." ........Continued see SANTA page-15 protesting Califom,as ’assage ofl~ropost, tion 8. Wackner News An estimated 7,500 to 15,000 people marched through former New York Ammerican Civil Liberties Union Executive Manhattan Nov¯ 12 protesting caiifornia’~ Proposition 8, the Director Normal Siegel Said t~e was c0mfortable ,vith a figure - - state ~-on~titution of 7i500; and longtime gay activist Bill Dobbs, who opposes Nov. 4 to end same:sex marriage, which yeas legalized by the same.sex marriage, favoring civil unions instead, said 5,000 to 7,000. ~e march began at the Mormon Temple on Columbus Av, "Tonight was an amazing success and I was proud ofNew enue, went down Broadway, turned east on 61St Street, then York City standing in Solidarity with California and getting south on Central Park West to Columbus circle, people out in the streets doing something meaningful," said Johnson, who is director of government affairs at a Wall Street realresta*e-development firm and political director of the popular gay blog Towleroad. California’s Supreme Court has been asked to delete Prop 8 from the constitution, anda ruling is expected rdatively Estimates of the turnout for the march varied. Journalist and quickly. The American Civil Libe*:ties Union, Lambda Legal, radio personality Michelangelo Signorile reported 15,000; the National Center for Lesbian Rigl!ts and other parties say Gay activists have claimed that more than half of the money that funded the ubiquitous TV ads that convinced Californians to vote for Prop 8 was donated by Mormon families at the church’s urging. lead organizer Corey Johnson estimated 12,000; blogger and Prop 8 illegally "revised" the state constitution rather than participant Joe Jervis (JoeMyGod) Said 10,000 to 15,000; merely amending it. .,,,,....,.:Con{inued see NYC Page-8 My name is Chili. 2 December 2008 ~#w.metrostarnews.com Oklahoma City GLBT and Allied Community Rallies Over two hundred demonstrators t~llied on the Oklahoma City, City Hallsteps to p~otest discrimination voted in by California, Arizona, Florida andArkansas on Nov 4. Photo by ~ctor Gorin. On November 15 on the steps ofthe Oklahoma City Hall, there was an outpouring ofemotion & solidarity as over 200 GLBT people and their fair minded allies gathered together to protest the passage ofProposition City, yet nobody here was involved, so I decided that I was going to do this." At 24, a lifdong Oklahoman, he brought it together through Internet work and word of mouth, naakAng a grand occasion that received mainstream televithe rights ofthose who may want to marry later, but also left in legal limbo s~ae sex couples who had already gotten married For Trey Dill, who brought it all together, organizing this protest was his first venture in social activism. As he puts it, "After the passage ofProposition 81 found myself kind ofangry, and Igot on the Internet and began browsing every GLBT website. One day I stumbled onto the jointheimpact.com website, which was organizing these rallies nationwide. There ~vas a listing forOklahoma McCullar and Marlena Weaver, who had gotten married in California October 20, xvhose marriage is now in legal limbo. Although they realized that their marriage would not be recognizedqn Oklahoma, the passage ofProposition 8 still hurt. As Kara put it, "It makes us feel like we’re not worthy enough. ~aey’ll take our taxes, ~ve l~ve in the same community, yet we are second class citizens. We’re here to protest this, because gay or straight we all should have the same rights. STOP HATE IN THE HALLWAYS By Victor Gorin OKLAHOMA CITY. OK Educators, mental health professionals, activists and others interested in Oklahomds students came together November 13 for the 2nd Stop Hatred in the Hallways Conference. Following the success of the first conference held in Oklahoma City, this meeting was held at the U.S. Postal Service’s National Facility for Employee Development in Norman, bringing in people throughout Oklahoma interested in making Oklahoma’s schools safer. The Conference was originally organized by Cimarron Alliance, mainly because ofa glaring need that wasn’t being met. While there have been many incidents ofschool violence, and conferences and discussion to address it, there had never been a conference, seminar or major Ann Simank Social worker &former OKC Councilperson, Randy Tate Conference organiz- ~ Tanya Cox representingACLU Oklahoma. Photo by Victor Gorin meeting that included what many feel is the most common form ofbullying, those who are or are perceived to be gay or lesbian. Whether the problem is growing or simply being recognized and addressed is open to question. What is certain is that there definitely is a problem. In a national study, over 30% of U.S. students reported being involved in bullying either as a bully 13%, a victim 11%, or both 6%. Coming dose to home, the Oklahoma State Department of Health did a study surveying 7848 Oklahoma students. They found similar results, with 33% that had been involved in bullying, 12% as the bullg, 14% as the victim, and 7% involved in both. One in five students worried often or daily about being bullied. More than halfnever reported it to an adult at school or a parent. When asked what could be done about the situation, 213 of those xvho were bullied and halfofthose not bullied wanted better adult supervision. Not only is bullying damaging to both the victims, but frequendy the bullies suffer as well, with over 60% ofthose categorized as bullies in grades 6-9 having at least one criminal conviction by age 24. A study with the U.S. Department ofEducation of37 school shooting incidents found that 71% ofthe shooters felt threatened and/or persecuted, or had been attacked. Following a welcome by Richard Odgen, Chairman of Cimarron Mliance, the conference was addressed by Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmondson. He pointed out how things have dhanged, how prejudices of home are brought to schools, and those who ,ire different frequently become objects ofbullying. .............Continued see STOP HATE page-11 December 2008 Room Rates From $42.95 A~About Our Su#es www.metrostarnews.com ~et~tJSTAR 5 What’s the Matter with Oklahoma? By Gov. David V/alters Photo: Gov. David Walters (nndb.conO I waited three days in the hopes that my fuming at Oklahoma’s counter performance to the collective heave ho that the rest of the nation gave to the Republicans would subside. It has not. Axnending the title ofTnomas Franks’ insightful book about how conservatives won the heart of g,ansas ,.. "What’s the Matter with Oklahoma?" Did we really just do this? We’re the winner of the national championship for the highest McCain/Palin margin at 65.6 percent; the only state where Republicans gained ground in the state house, senate and statewide offices; and the only state in which McCain/Palin carried every county. Not one of our 77 counties ,vent Democratic, not a single blue dot. Sen. Obama polled 10.8 percent in Beaver County. This was not out of 100 votes where percentages are easily distorted, but out of 2,462 votes cast. Now you are thinking that we cannot expect mu& progressive thought out of a county best known for its cow-chip throwing contest (two tries if you lick your fingers after the first). BUt I have been to Beaver county and met good people and don’t understand 89.2% decided Sarah Palin should be vice president of the United States. It’s not just our friends in Beaver scouring the landscape for aerodynamic cow patties. Twenty-one counties fell below 25 percent for Obama and 39 counties, more than half of the 77, fell below 30 percent. The top bastion of Democratic performance? Cherokee county, where they used to spray for Republicans, held McCain/Palin to "only" 56.percent. The heart of our most Democratic county only allowed Obama to get within 12.2 percent of a single county victor,/. Howard Dean called me as I was looking at these ..........Continued See WALTERS OkEq Sponsors a Care Drive TULSA, OK (PR) __ OkEq is sponsoring a Care Drive as part of our Home for the Holidays. Donations are being accepted at the Center for Our House Too, which serves approximately 75 clients affected by HIV and AIDS. Our House Too needs personal items such as cleaning supplies and toiletry items. The Parish Church of St. Jerome’s Food Pantry served over 500 householcks and over 1000 people last year. The food pantry needs canned foods, stuffing mixes, hamburger helpers, etc. The drive will continue until the end of the year. A full list 0fitems needed is available at the Center and on our website, ~wccw.okeq.org Holiday Music Is In Air TULSA, OK (OKEQ) Council Oak Men’s Chorale Presents "A Holiday Happening" - an event so festive even Rudolph will be jealous! December 2nd, 5th, and 6th starting at 8:00pro at the Trinity Episcopal Church. For more information visit the web site at http://vcww. counciloak.org. Sisters In Song is also holding a Holiday Concert. The event scheduled for Dec 13th. Stay tuned for details or visit ww~v.myspace. com/sistersinsong. NEW GAY CLUB OPENS INJOPLIN JOPLIN, MO (PR) __ With several new GLBT bars opening and closing this past year, the Joplin Gay Community is looking forward to a place to gather and have fun that they can depend on to be open the next day. The PLA-Mor Lounge should be just that. Local business man and owner ofthe new dub, Bill Jack is well know and respected in the area. They are open Monday- Saturday 3:00PM to 1:30 am. Located at 532 South Joplin Ave Joplin MO 64801, phone 417-624-2722. OGRAAnnounces 2009 Royalty Team OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (PR) _ OGRA has announced the New OGRA 2009 Royalty Team. Miss OGRA 2009, Anita Ryder Mr OGRA 2009, Larry Bourne Ms OGRA 2009, Brooklyn Rachelle OGRA would like to invite everyone to come and join us for our next genera! membership meeting, Sunday December 7th 2008 at 2:00 PM at the Ledo, in the Habana Inn Complex. The OGRA 2009 Royalty Team would !ike to invite everyone to their first fundraiser of their reign, Saturday December 20th 2008 from 8:00 PM until 10:00 PM at the Finishline, in the Habana Inn Complex. They ~vill be raising money for the 2009 Great Plains Rodeo and their Charity Partners. During the evening a Christmas wreath auction will be held and door prizes will be given away. They will also be issuing the organizations contributions to the charity partners for 2008. "Please join us to recognize al! the hard work the organization has done for this community during the 2008 year." N~e 2008 charity partners are RAIN Oklahoma and Other Options. Dennis R. Neill Equality Center opens December exhibit TULSA, OK (PR) __ The Dennis R Neill Equality Center Gallery exhibit for December is a fundraiser for the Gallery. The theme for the exhibit is ’Reflection on a Red Stiletto’. Each ofthe eleven participating artists were given ~a red stiletto to use in their creation or to use as inspiration for their creation. That piece ~vill be donated to the Gallery and available for purchase throughout the exhibit in a silent auction. The Opening Night Reception for the exhibit ~Vill be Thursday, December 4th, from 6 to 9pro, at the Center, 621 E 4th St, Tulsa. The exhibit and silent auction will rm~ through December 31. Each artist will also have one additional piece ofhis/her artwork on display for sale. Proceeds from this fuaadraiser will go towards the purchase ofwood benches for the Gallery, additional lighting, additional display pieces, etc. Artists that will be participating include: Michael Christopher Ann Marie DiStefano Karen Greenawalt G Krysta Hamilton Allie Jensen Nick Kountoupis Sharyl Landis Josh New Jessica Newman Directory ofLocal Animal Shdters Tulsa Shelter 918-669-6299 Broken Arrow 918-259-8311 OKC 405 297 3104 Muskogee 918 686 7297 Stillwater 405 372 0334 Coweta 918-486 2137 Siloam Springs 479 524 6535 Claremore 918 341 1260 Sand Springs 918 246 2543 Jenks 918 299 6311 Owasso 918-272-4965 Sapulpa 918 227 2722 Norman 405 321 6725 Collinsville 918 371 1000 Courtesy ofwvoCalabrescue.net 6 ~etroSTAR December 2008 Wockner News Service Colorado sends openly gay man to Congress Schwarzenegger: State Supremes may undo Prop 8 Photo:j~red Polls by Rex l~ckner Openly gay Jared Polls was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives on Nov. 4 from Colorado’s 2nd Congressional District, which encompasses areas north and west of Denver, including the city ofBoulder. Polls, a 33-year-old Democrat, is the first openly gay man elected to Congress who was out when elected t’or the first time. U.S. Rep. Tamlnv Baldwin. D-Wis., holds the female distincrmn in that regard. California Gov. A,wold Schwarzenegger thinks the state Supreme Court may annul Prop 8. Photo by Rex Wockner " California Gin: Arnold Schwarzenegger told CNN on Nov. 9 that the state Supreme Court may welt "undo" Proposition 8, the voter initiative that re-banned same-sex marriage Nov. 4 by amending the state constitution. ,~d the governor suggested he thinks that would be a good ~ove. "They had a very, very strong campaign, the pro-Proposition 8 people, and I think that the people that tried to defeat it did not have, "~e voters of out" district have spoken clearly maybe, as goo_d a campaigner had as much that they ~an~ change brought t~Washing~rn,- moneY behi"nd ~" t, whatever, Schwarz’ enegger Polls told the Denver Post. "I look fbr~vard to said. "I think it is unfortunate, obviously, but taking my out-of-the-box approach and creative ideas to help shake up "Washington? In his primary-election victory speech in August, Polls introduced his partner, made reference to being gay, ~d said, "I always worried that that ~vould get in the way (of) giving back mad contributing to our society:’ A millionaire who made his money in online ventures, Polis spent $5.6 million of his own funds in the campaign. Polls becomes the sixth open gay to serve in the I-louse ofRepresentatives, following in the footsteps of Baldwin, current Rep. Barney Frank kD-Mass.), and former Reps. Gerry Studds (D-Mass.), who is deceased, Steve Gunderson (R-Wis.) and Jim Kolbe (R-Ariz.). Frank, 68, is now the powerful chairman of the House Financial Services Committee. Frank told the Post in August, "We are reaching that point where among.Democratic voters sexual orientation ofa candidate is not a factor." He also said that once he’s no longer the only gay male congressman, he won’t feel as much pressure to be a role modd and plans to start smoking cigars in public again. it’s nrt the end because I think this will go back into the courts, this will go back to the Supreme Court because the Supreme Court very clearly in California has declared this unconstitutional. It’s the same as in the 1948 case xvhen blacks and whites were not allowed to marry. This falls into the same category. So, I think that we will again, you know, maybe undo that, if the court is willing to do that, and then move forward from there and again lead in that area? In addition to the anti-gay side’s having aired much more effective ads than the pro-gay side did in the huge TV-advertising war, Schwarzenegger said there were other factors that aided Prop 8’s passage. "Because of the big turnout amongst African- Americans and Latinos, that had an effect also, which they did not expect, so there’s all kinds of other things there;’ he said. "And I think the religious groups have done a really big campaign, a lot ofthem, to support Proposition 8, and so on, and so it’s a very, very difficult thing." Before the TV ad war started, Prop 8 had been losing in the polls by as much as 17 points. 2qae governor also offered some advice to California’s gay population. °I can start indulging some bad habits; Frank said. "Let the young gay people find someone else to emulate? "(Y)ou should never ever give up; he said. "They should never give up. They should be on it and on it until they get it done: Laxwers for the gay side filed suit in the state Supreme Court on Nov. 5 seeking to annul Prop 8. They said it is not merely an amendment to the constitution but rather a "revision" that fundamentally alters the guarantee of equal protection. Constitutional revisions require a t~vo-thirds vote ofthe Legislature to reach the ballot. Prop 8 got there by activists’ collecting signatures on petitions. "Proposition 8 is invalid because the initiative process was improperly used in an attempt to undo the constitution’s core commitment to equality for everyone by eliminating a fundamental right from just one group -- lesbian and gay Californians," said the American Civil Liberties Union, Lambda Legal and the National Center for Lesbian Rights. "Proposition 8 also improperly attempts to prevent the courts from exercising their essential constitutional role ofprotecting the equal prote. ction rights of minorities," the groups said. Same-sex marriages begin in Connecticut Don Perata and Assembly Speaker Karen Bass. Gay groups and others have filed suit seeking to invalidate Prop 8, arguing that it unconstitutionally "revised" the constitution, rather than merely amending it. When changes in the constitution have farreaching effects on the document’s structure and purpose, the process of amending it must begin in the state Legislature, with a two-thirds vote. The process cannot start solely with voters signing petitions, as was the case with Prop 8. "Proposition 8 is invalid because the initiative process was impropetly used in an attempt to undo the constitution’s core commitment to equality for everyone by elinainating a fundamental right from just one group -- lesbian and gay Californians;’ said the American Civil Liberties Union, Lambda Legal and the National Center for Lesbian Rights. Same-sex couples began marrying in Connecticut on Nov. 12 after final judgment was entered in a case decided by the state Supreme Court on Oct. 10. In a 4-3 ruling, the court had declared that the state’s policy ofoff~ring same~sex couples:only civil unions violated that state constitution’s guarantee Ofequal protection under the law. One report, based on partial data, said 66 marriage licenses were issued to same-sex couples across the state in the initial hours after samesex marriage becanae legal. With California voters’ recent decision to re-ban same-sex marriage, Massachusetts is the only other U.S. state where gay couples can marry. ~ae California move, which anaended the state constitution, is under assault in several new lawsuits filed with the state Supreme Court, and gays and their supporters have staged numerous large street demonstrations up and dmvn the state since Nox: 4. On S,a.ra,,y, No . 15, w=e .ge, ,-ooraihated anti-~grop 8protests across the country at 10:30 a.ra. Ca~fornia time. 7his was the scene in San Francisco. Viockner Newspboto by Steve Silb~an Legislators want Pro overturned Forty-four California legislators filed a brief with the state Supreme Court on Nov. 10 urging that Proposition 8, the constitutional amendment that voters passed to qe-ban same-sex marriage, be overturned. Signers included Senate President Pro Tempore 8 Direct Cremation From $595 MORTUARY SERVICE, ~c Traditional Funeral Services at Affordable Prices (405) 230- 1310 or !-800-913-1310 Pre-Need Plan CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED 2415-C North WalnutAvenue, Oklaho www.metrostamews.com MetroSTAR 7 California Supreme Court Grants Review In Prop 8 Legal Challenges Court To Determine Constitutionality of Prop 8 SAN FRANCISCO, CA (PR) __ November 19, 2008) -- Today the California Supreme Court granted review in the legal challenges to Proposition 8, which passed by a narrmv margin of 52 percent on November 4. In an order issued today, the Court agreed to hear the case and set an expedited briefing schedule. q-he Court also denied an immediate stay. On November 5, 2008, the National Center for Lesbian Rights, the American Civil Liberties Union, and Lambda Legal filed a lawsuit challenging the validity of Proposition 8 in the California Supreme Court on behalf of six individuals and Equality California. The City of San Francisco, joined by the City of Los Angeles and Santa Clara County, filed a similar challenge, as did a private attorney in Los Angeles. The lawsuits allege that, on its face, Proposition 8 is an improper revision rather than an amendment of the California Constitution because, in its very title, which ,vas "Himinates the right to marry for same-sex couples," the initiative eliminated an existing right only for a targeted minofit): If permitted to stand, Proposition 8 would be the first time an initiative has successfully been used to change the California Constitution to take way an existing right only for a particular group. Such a change would defeat the very purpose of a constitution and fundamentally alter the role of the courts in protecting minority rights. According to the California Constitution, such a serious revision of our state Constitution cannot be enacted through a simple majority vote, but must first be approved by two-thirds of the Legislature. Since the three lawsuits submitted on November 5, three other lawsuits challenging Proposition 8 have been filed. In a petition filed on November 14, 2008, leading African American, Latino, and Asian American groups argued that Proposition 8 threatens the equal protection fights of all Californians. On November 17, 2008, the California Council of Churches and other religious leaders and faith organizations representing millions of members statewide, also filed a petition asserting that Proposition 8 poses a severe threat to the guarantee of equal protection for all, and was not enacted through the constitutionally required process for such a dramatic change to the California Constitu~ tion. On the same day, prominent California womeffs rights organizations filed a petition asldng the Court to invalidate Proposition 8 because of its potentially disastrous implications for women and other groups that face discrimination. In May of 2008, the California Supreme Court held that barring same-sex couples from marriage violates the equal protection clause of the California Constitution and violates the fundamental right to marry. Proposition 8 would completely eliminate the right to marry only for same-sex couples. No other initiative has ever successfully changed the California Constitution to take avcay a right only from a targeted minority group. Over the past 100 years, the California Supreme Court has heard nine cases challenging either legislative enactments or initiatives as invalid revisions of the California Constitution. In three of those cases, the Court invalidated those measures. For more information on dais case, go to: http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/courts/supreme/ highprofile/prop8.htm MISS BAMBOO 2009 CROWNED By Greg Steele Photo: Miss Bamboo 2009 Lady Katherine TULSA, OK __ No prelim, no registration fees, not known for glamour, but an absolute celebration of campy fun with a big heart. That is the Miss Bamboo Pageant. Although this year’s contestants did break with tradition and were quite stylish. Lady Katherine was a bit sleazy with her very revealing Victoria Secret underwear! Votes for each contestant were determined by the amount of money each was given by the audience for their performance. Our House Too ofTulsa ~vas the recipient of this years proceeds of $625.00. Our House Too offers a variety of services for people who are HIV+ or living with AIDS. You can contact them at 918-585-9552 or 203 N. Nogales Ave Tulsa, OK 74127 Conspicuously absent from the entertainment line-up this year was self proclaimed Empress of the Bamboo, Miss Mona Lott and Miss Bamboo 2007 (2 X default) Czarina Rottchacokoffwho’s Hollywood caliber talent was very much missed. A constitutional revision requires a two-thirds vote of the Legislature to begin the process, while an amendment can be placed on the ballot simply by collecting enough voter signatures on petitions, as was the case with Prop 8. "Proposition 8 is invalid because the initiative process was improperly used in an attempt to undo the constitution’s core commitment to equality for everyone by eliminating a fundamental right from just one group -- lesbian and gay Californians," the legal groups said. "Proposition 8 also improperly attempts to prevent the courts from exercising their essential constitutional role of protecting the equal protection rights of minorities," the groups said. California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger on Nov. 10 expressed support for overturning Prop 8. "This will go back to the Supreme Court because the Supreme Court very clearly in California has declared this unconstitutional," Schwarzenegger told CNN. "It’s the same as in the 1948 case when blacks and whites were not allowed to marry. This falls into the same category. So, I think that we will again, you know, maybe undo that, if the court is willing to do that, and then move forward from there and again lead in that area." Schwarzenegger also urged gay Californians to "never ever gir.e u.p".o.n marriage.e.q.u.al.i~.: "They should be on it and on it until they get it done," he said. 8 ~®t~oSTAR December 2008 Neiman Marcus Gift Idea For Christmas 2008 Limited-Edition Fighter Motorcycle There’s the startling, dare we say sex); design that fuses raw power with crisp simplicity. It’s an evolution of the machine, at once taken back down to its core elements while being reinvented and re-engineered for optimal performance. It’s our street-legal sci-fi dream come to life, in the form of the limitededition Fighter Motorcycle. Ours exclusively courtesy of Confederate Motor Company°, the first ever Fighter packs 190 mph of performance into its cutting edge carbon fiber, titanium, andaluminum chassis~ There’s the 64" wheelbase, 27"H seat, integrated braking system, tots of high-tech bells and whistles, and custom NM edition features. But, honestly, ride it once and you’ll be too jacked up on adrenaline to remember all the details. (To view them in all their glory, go here.) Item Limited-Edition Fighter Motorcycle Price $110,000.00" OCBF9_NMO3594 To score one of only 45 of these raw, raging, right on machines, call 1.877.9NM.GIFT. *Manufacturer’s suggested retail price. Price excludes all taxes, tide, licensing, registration f~es, and transportation costs. Neiman Marcus is acting as the advertiser of this product. All sa]es will be conducted solely by participating, authorized dealers in the United States. Un A Metropolitan Community Church Sunday Services @ 11:00 A}4 1623 N. Maplewood Tu{sa, OK 918-838-1715 % w.mcctu sa.org v~.metrostarnews.com ~®t~oSTAR 9 Is Gay Marriage A Q,Eestion Of Rights? By Gerald Libonati ~e marriage protection amendment that bans same-sex couples from marrying was on the ballot in three states last Tuesday. It passed in Florida and California by a margin of 52% to 48% with a majority of the precincts counted. In Arizona, a conservative state that once rejected the amendment, it passed by 56% to 44%. [[he results came as no surprise, emphasizing once again that the rights of unpopular minorities should never be put to a popular vote. How many times was the Equal Rights An,~,endment for ~vomen squashed? The first public Womans Rights Convention was held in 1848 west of Syracuse, New York. African-Amlericans did not win equal rights by a popular vote. The country vehemently fought against it. Equality for blacks required an act of Congress. So too, should equal rights for cay men and lesbian women be written into lave, not restricted y it. Some might feel gay marriage is not a question of rights, yet the expression of religious values is protected by the first amendment. After all, it is a religious Viewpoint that same-sex couples should not be allowed to marry, and it is the spiritual vie~cpoint of gay and lesbian couples (and the mental health community) that homosexuality is a good and valid expression. It is, to be sure, a religious debate as well as one of legal benefits. One can’t help feeling violated every time there is a gay/lesbian issue on the chopping block. It becomes a lightning rod for the religious right to rally agm’nst with their bumper stickers and selbrighteous slurs. How many gay and lesbian people feel battered during times like this? Yet, the struggle for gay rights may be part of a process that has not yet finished. Certainly, the zeitgeist has improved significantly over the years regarding attitudes toward gay/lesbian people. And if it is hard to imagine a time when GLBT people are a part of the Atnerican mainstream, remember it was once hard fbr women and black Americans to imagine, too. Gerald Libonati is an award-winning wrimr in South Florida. He has writtenfor the Sun-Sentinel, 7he Miami Hera~ 7he Advocate and various gay/lesbian newspapo’s. He is the author ofthe new novel, ’7~eter Wo~" the sto~ ofafamous gay rock star who goes incognito mfind love. NO on Prop 8 Campaign Leaders Call on Community to Stand Together SACP,AMENTO, CA (PR) __ Top leaders from the NO on Prop 8 campaign today issued the follmving statement urging leaders in the community to stand together following the passage of Prop 8. "This has been an incredibly difficult week for Californians who are disappointed in the passage of Proposition 8, which takes away the right to marry for same-sex couples in our state. We feel a profound sense of disappointment in this defeat, but know that in order to move forward we must continue to stand together as one community in order to secure full equality in California. "In working to defeat Prop 8, a profound coalition banded together to fight for equality. Faith leaders, labor, teachers, civil rights leaders and communities of col0r, Republicans, Democrats, and Independents, public officials, local school boards and city councils, parents, corporate law firms and bar associations, businesses, and people from all walks of life l’oined together to stand up against discrimination. We must build on this coalition in order to achieve equal rights for all Californians. "We achieve nothing ifwe isolate the people who did not stand with us in this fight. We only further divide our state if we attempt to blame people of faith, African American voters, rural communities and others for this loss. We know people of all faiths, races and backgrounds stand with us in our fight to end discrimination, and will continue to do so. Now more than ever it is critical that we work together and respect our differences that make us a diverse and unique society.. Only with that understanding will we achieve justice and equality for all." Geoff Kors, Executive Director, Equality California Kate Kendell, Executive Director, National Center for Lesbian Rights. Lorri Jean, CEO, Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center Delores Jacobs, CEO, San Diego Gay and Lesbian Center 925 L Street, Suite 1200 Sacramento, CA 95814, Time for Waiting is Over -he Time for Action is NOW. By James Nimmo OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__ A recent joint press release from Equality California, National Center for Lesbian Rights, Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center ,,,a,,n~d the San Diego Gay and Lesbian Center is counseling that We achieve nothing ifwe isolate the people who did not stand with us in this fight. We only further divide our state ifwe attempt to blame people of faith, African American voters, rural communities arid others for this loss. I disagree completely. No longer, no longer, no longer must religion be used as the cudgel to separate any person from their legal rights of fair treatment and protection under the law. I walked by a religious proselytizer today in downtown Oklahoma City. I hadseen him yesterday when he made a speech for Gee-sus on the bus I was riding. Today, though, he was on the sidewalk and said to me, "Did you know God loves you?" I looked him in the eye for a few seconds and replied, "F*** ofiq.", and walked away. I’ve never acted that way to a stranger before and depending on the perceived physical danger to me, it wofft be the last time I respond to an uninvited encounter with a proselytizer. Religion has and continues to be the major block to the implementation of rights for gay/lesbian citizens because of wh~tt we do in private and who we love in public. Religion ,vas the chain around the necks of slaves, it’s been the chastity belt forced on women’s reproductive choice, and it’s been the Closed book preventing the age-appropriate teaching of responsible sexual information to children. Religion instructs the empty-headed to fear our differentness, to treat us with disrespect and with barely concealed contempt to encourage violence against our property and bodies. Wegays/lesbians are far too complacent, accepting, and willing in our own disenfranchisement from our birth right as citizens. I welcome the peaceful protests in California and elsewhere that are demanding the protection and benefits of the laws that are applied to others but not to us. Our self-appointed equality leaders who counsel shyness and acceptance of a later time should act like leaders or get out of our way. The time is long past for coyness and politeness. Dr. M. L. King said it best in his "Letter from Birmingham Jail", April 16, 1963 with this paragraph: X~re know through painful experience that freedom is never voluntarily given b~ the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed. Frankly, I have yet to engage in a direct-action campaign that was "well timed" in the view of those who have not suffered unduly from the disease of segregation. For years now I have heard the ~vord Wmt. It nngs ~n the ear of every Negro with piercing familiarity. This "Wait" has almost always meant Never. We must come to see, with one ofou distinguished jurists, that "justice too long delayed is justice denied." ( http://www.mlkonline.net/jail.html ) With the immorally presented kangaroo-court vote that passed Prop 8 in California and with other anti-gay measures in Arizona, Florida, and Arkansas, I think we gays/lesbians have waited long enough. Let the marches continue! As we march, let’s take our chant from the newly-elected President Obama’s campaign, Yes, we can! numbers. He wanted to say, "thank you" ... for what I have no earthly idea. I unloaded about our local results, but Howard didfft take the bait. His politically correct language has been finely honed from thousands of scathing attacks on each of his utterances. He opined that the economy is much better in Oklahoma than most states and that many other states have a sizable portion of their popul,a,tion tl~at,~ould normally be concerned about leaders who are different than they are. But in those states the economy and the need for change overwhelmed their normal reticence to select someone "unlike" them. Man that guy can talk. While t am fuming, foaming, uttering and mumblin,F, obscenities, he sounds like he just graduated from The vabama School of Cool. So should we do anything? Ofcourse we should. Not just for competitive partisan reasons, but because it’s not good for Oklahoma to run so counter. One national media service recently said bas,,ed on the polls, the future of the Re,publica,n Party lies with old white people and hayseed states. I, dont believe that, but much ofme nation does and we dont need to be in that category. Another pundit said that to understand the current Republican Party one has to "understand the unique culture and politics ofAppalachia." Are you kidding me? Hayseed states and Appalachia! Call your local chamber and ask them if they think this is somehmv good for us. From a national image it’s a disaster. From a local basis can you imagine how this emboldens Republicans in the state house, now firmly in control of the l~gislature? Do you think we are going to hear much about education, health care and jobs -- or are we simply going to get a double dose of Guns, God, and Gays? Gun sales in Oldahoma skyrocketed immediately prior to the election and particularly afterwards. The vast majority of these Oklahoma voters really believe that Obama -- in addition to not being a Christian, being affiliated with terrorists and intent on doubling our taxes -- is also going to take their guns! What was that comment during the campaign about clinging? So what do we do? Before we start shouting and stepping all over each other like the national Republicans, we should first calmly talk about process. Hmv do we determine what are the highest contributing factors to this unusual trend in Oldahoma? Let’s assume that we can identify with polling and focus groups the top 20 contributing factors, and then perhaps we can identify that half of these we cannot do an) thing about.., but a plan to address the other half may have merit. I have lots ofideas ... but I really have to cool off first. Posted by David Waiters at: http:llreddirtblog.typepad.coml red dirt blog/ 10 ~÷troSTAR December 2008 Rhis was best shown by the keynote speaker, Stephen Wessler, who directs the Center for the Prevennon of Hate Violence located in Pordand, Maine, and was a former assistant Attorney General in that state was well. He is the author ofthe book, "The Respectful School," and has received many awards for his work in the area of civil rights. OkA¢homa State Attorney Gene~alDrew Edmondson. Aspeaker at the 2nd Stop Hate in the Hallways Conference. Photo by Hctor Gorin He pointed out that serious bullying begins with words. He told ofa student (pseudonym John), ~vho was perceived to be gay by 4 male students at his school. At first they talked behind his back, and nobody objected. It escalated to name calling direcdy to John. ~aen it escalated to tripping and shoving in the hall, with no objections or intervention. The following February he ~vas jumped by three boys and severely beaten, and nobody intervened or told an adult. This followed by 3 more similar incidents, including an attempt in the bathroom to put his head in an unflushed toilet, and another incident where a boy put John’s head in a noose and pulled it tight for over 40 seconds. Finally, When one ofthe boys threatened to shoot John, the threat was overheard by a girl ~vho reported this to school authOrities, Finally the police were called and Mr. Wessler, as a prosecutor with the state hate crimes prosecution unit, finally took action. Ironically, the four boys involved in the harassment were age 12. Although the conference included the issues ofGLBT students, it was also inclusive ofother forms as ~vell, including those of Islamic students ~vho were harassed (frequently called terrorists), Latinos frequently called "beaners" or "tacos". Other issues included students with disabilities, and other characteristics such as being overweight. Reverend Scott Jones ofOklahoma City’s Cathedral ofHope led a panel discussion ofreligion and the role it played in harassment, and also those who are victimized. Another workshop conducted by Kathy Middleton with the Oklahoma State Department of Health, showed and demonstrated how bullying could be prevented, and how students & administrators can deal with it. And intervention can’t come too soon, not only for those bullied, but for all Oklahoma students who have the right to a productive, safe education. Oklahoma Couple Marries Photp: Rex Ball, Architect/Urban Designer, aformer US Commissioner ofFine Arts and Stephen Edwards, multi-award winning Interior Designer in Oklahoma were mar~ed October 24 in Palm Springs, CA by Mayor Steve Pougnet. The couple has been together for 24 years. Both are originally from Central Oklahoma where they first met. Having also lived in Washington, D.C. the couple settled in Tulsa in 1996. B~th ~e a~tive iii Hist0fi~il PreserVation and have renovated two Tulsa houses for themselves both ofwhich are located in neighborhoods on the National Register of Historic places. In Oklahoma City they renovated the Mid-Century landmark Raymond Carter designed Residence on Barnes Circle which is also visible from Pennsylvania Avenue. The services were conducted on Friday, October 24 by the Mayor of Palm Springs in the Mid-Century designed City Hall. q-he Mayor hadwritten the words of the service. Witnesses were former Tulsans Mike Green and Jim Trotter also Architect Dan Logan of Palm Springs and Malibu. The couple has 5 daughters and nine grandchildren. Father and son marry partners in Palm Springs double wedding By Rex Wockner Charles Robbins, executive director of~e Trevor Project, and Damon Romine, director ofentertainment media at the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, got married Nov. 2 in Palm Springs in a double ceremony that also saw Romine’sfather, David, marry hisparmen La~wy Barrett. From left: Robbins, Damon Romine, David Romine and Barrett. Photo by DavidA. Lee Charles Robbins, executive director of~he Trevor Project, the national suicide-prevention helpline for gay youth, and Damon Romine, director of entertainment media at the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, got married Nov. 2 in Palm Springs in a double ceremony that also saw Romine’s father, David, marry his partner, Larry Barrett. Robbins, 46, and Damon Romine, 42, have been together for nine years and Barrett and David Romine have been together for 16 years. It was believed to be California’s first same-sex double wedding ceremony shared by a father and son. Same-sex marriage became legal in California on June 16, following a Supreme Court ruling, and became illegal again on Nov. 4, following passage of a ballot initiative that amended the state constitution to negate the ruling. Gay groups have filed suit to block the amendment from taking effect. At press time, the State Supreme Court had not ruled on the case, and county officials had stopped issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples. Will & Grace creator marries Max Mutchnick, a creator and executive producer ofTV’s Wilt & Grace, got married to lawyer Erik Hyman on Oct. 25 in Beverly Hills. "We wanted to be a part of the wave of same-sex couples getring married before the election," Mutchnick told The New York Times. ~e couple have been together for two years. They moved in together a week after meeting and have never spent a night apart since. Mutchnick told The Times that Hyman is the most intelligent and confident man he’s ever met, and the only one he’s met who can withstand his insecurities and histrionics. Hyman said he felt hard for Mutchnick’s passion, charm and humor. The couple have two daughters, who were born to a surrogate. California voters ended same-sex marriage in the state Nov. 4, amending the state constitution to say, "Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California." Gay groups have filed suit to block the amendment from taking effect. At press time, the State Supreme Court had not ruled on the case, and county officials had stopped issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples. OKLAHOMA CITY COUPLE WED IN CALIFORNIA Kara McCullar & Marlena Weaver demonstrate on Oklahoma City Hall steps. The couple was legally married in California October 20. Photo by Victor Gorin. www.metrostarnews.com MetroSTAR 11 @Club 209, Tulsa @Club Majestic, Tulsa @ Bamboo Lounge, TulSa ..... @ Finishline, Oklahoma City @ The Copa, Oklahoma City 12 @Angles, Oklahoma City @ The Ledo, Oklahoma City @ Steve’s Hideaway, Tulsa Community Fellowship "A place where you can be who God created you to be andfi’iends’hips becomefamily" Worship Experience Sundays 5:30p.m. Pastor Neill Spurgin PastorNeih’@ExpressionsOKC.com (40 ) 76 - 7s ~w.ExpressionsOKC. corn Lansbrook Event Center 6009 NWExpressway Oklahoma City, OK December 2008 On Saturday, Nov. 15, there were coordinated anti,Prop. 8 protests in 300 cities in all 50 states and several other countries at 10.30. a.m. California time, ~lengthy march from San Diego’s Balboa Park to the Count~ 25;000 ~ar~hers, Photo by Re~ Wockne~ On Sa~twday, Nov. 1£ there were huge, coordinated anti-Prop 8protests across the country at 10:30 a.m. Ca~lifo~ia time. ~is wa~ the stone in San ~,n&co. ~&nerNewspbom by Steve 39am the stage to repeate!ly create a~ant rambowflag, to the de@,}t ofnews photographers and cameramen. ter and ~dsa rallied in opposition to California’s Prop S. Arqzona, Florida outlJwedMardage ~quality an~ Arkansas voted toprobibit GLBT~doption, Saturda November 15, 2008 25,000 str~g mti~Prop 8 grassroots protest in San Di~g0~ N Wockner News Service Caribbean health offidals call for repeal of buggery laws UK Ministry ofDefence paid $6.2 million to sacked soldiers Gay couple arrested in Mexico for kissing and hugging UK to give lesbians equal access to fertility treatment Some government officials in attendance at The United Kingdom’s Ministry ofDefence the recent annual meeting ofthe Pan Carib- has paid $6.2 million to people who were Txvo male U.S. citizens were arrested in Playa A controversial bill that passed Britain’s House del Carmen, in Mexico’s Q,~intana Roo state, ofCommons Oct. 22, authorizing stem-celt bean Partnership Against HIV/AIDS called kicked out ofthe armed forces before the gay for kissing and hugging in public, the Mexico research that implants human cells into animal for repeal oflaws that criminalize gay sex as a ban was lifted in 2000, officials said Nov. 7. eggs creating hmnan-animal hybrids, also pathway to slowing the spread ofthe virus, the City daily E! Universal reported Oct. 22. cleared the way for lesbians to access fertility Caribbean Media Corporation reported. Sixty-five people have been compensated, receiving an average of $96,300 each. Eric Schroeder, 22, andJosd Mdndez, 35, were treatment and for a lesbian couple to be named "Ifxve repeal the Buggery Act it reduces risky accused of committing "a moral misdeed" (una on a birth certificate as a child’s parents. behavior and puts the onus on men who have "Over the past few years the MoD has made falta a la moral), jailed for 15 hours and fined sex xvith men to act in a responsible way," strenuous efforts to reach amicable settle- 2,000 pesos ($148). The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill passed the House ofCommons 355-129 and is said Dr. Peter Figueroa, head ofthe Jamaican ments in relation to those legal claims which Ministry of Health’s AIDS program. "When remained outstanding and we are pleased that Schroeder told the paper that on Oct. 10 the unlikely to be further modified before becompeople see themselves as excluded or discrimi- compensation has now been awarded in all couple was "resolving some differences that ing law. hated against and stigmatized, it promotes these cases;’ a spokesman said. we had" and, as they walked out ofthe house, risky behavior? "there were a few hugs and a kiss out front:’ "We’ve always thought it scandalous that lesbian couples could lawfully be excluded from the Britain’s armed forces lifted their gay ban on safety of (National Health Service) clinics, for The health minister ofthe island nation of orders from the European Court ofHuman At that point, police arrived, handcuffed them, Dominica, John Fabien, agreed, saying: "We Rights. then drove them around while they "picked up which we all pay," said Ben Summerskill, chief need to take this to another level, I think the more people who presumably had committed executive ofleading gay lobby group Stonewall. other crimes," he said. "Often they’ve been forced to use unregulated level ofprime ministers.... The whole ques- backstreet services instead? tion ofmen who have sex with men ... we can’t bow our heads in the sand and say it do~s no{..... .................. 1 ...."-They,wanted money and realizingthey , ,, DutCh men convlc~:eG weren t going to get it, they drove us around Children in lesbian and gay families develop happent.rayndtoI,villsee howbderivveincgou, ldthe getPr°cessthingsbaCkgoingh.°.m..e of injecting sex partriers Schroeder said. ’ in exactly the same social and intellectual way gge need to really fall in line mad try to get it off the books." Barbados’ health minister, Dr. David Estwick, asked, "What are we going to do about reaching men who have sex with men when we have laws against their sexual activity in most Caribbean countries. Jamaica’s Figueroa added that when gay sex is stigmatized, "it drives not only the epidemic underground, but it also means that men ~vho have sex with men disguise their sexuality, take on a girlfriend and have sex with women who are unaware that they are really people who have sex with men, and therefore this acts as a bridge in terms ofHIV transmission from the gay community." The lneeting was held in Montego Bay, Jamaica. According to Amnesty International, 11 Caribbean-area nations continue to ban gay sex -- Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jmnaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago. Hungarian Parliament passes nexv hate-crime laws Hungary’s Parliamentpassed legislation in early November extending hate-crime laws to cover members "ofa social group" and making it possible to initiate civil proceedings against someone ~vho engages in degrading or intimidating behavior toward another based on "sexual orientation." The changes need the approval of President L~szl6 S61yom and also must be able to withstand possible Constitutional Court challenges. The court previously has struck down socalled hate-speech laws on freedom-of-speech grounds. with HIV Two men in Groningen, Netherlands, were convicted Nov. 12 of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm by injecting several men ~vith HIV-infected blood after apparendysedating them during gay sex parties arranged over the Internet. One of the perpetrators, who vcas also convicted ofrape, received a nine-year prison sentence and the other was sentenced to five years. The Groningen District Court determined that while all the victims in the case were HIV-positire, there was no way to know if the assaults caused their infections, given that they had willingly participated in barebacking orgies. Resistance in UK to gay adoption A recent ICM Research survey conducted for the United Kingdom’s National Adoption Week revealed a high degree of resistance to adoption by gay couples. The poll of 1,007 people found that 40 percent ofth0se questioned think gay male couples should not be allowed to adopt and 36 percent think lesbian couples should be banned from adopting: Susan Cotton, adoption manager for the charity Action for Children, told the BBC the findings xvere "shocking and disappointing." "We have successfully placed children with both gay couples and single people. We know it works," she said. The couple’s eventual incarceration at the main police station ended after they paid a cop a 300-peso fee to take one oftheir credit cards and withdraw money to pay the 2,000-peso fine, Schroeder said. SPain’s ueen Sofia hot water with gays Spain’s Q~een Sofia is in hot water with gays after the newspaperH Pals published excerpts Oct. 29 from an upcoming biography of the queen by journalist Pilar Urbano. ha "The Q~_een Up Close" ("La Reina muy de cerca"), Sofia, 69, is quoted as saying: "I can understand, accept and respect that there are persons ofother sexual tendencies, but should they feel proud to be gay? Should they ride on a parade float and come out in demonstrations ? ffall ofthose ofus who aren’t gay came out in protest we would halt traffic." She went on: "Ifthose persons want to live together, dress up as bride and groom and marry, they could have a right to do so, or not, according to the laws of their country, but they shouldn’t call dais matrimony, because it isfft. q-here are many possible names: social contract, union contract? Spain is one ofsix countries where same-sex couples have access to full marriage. A royal spokesperson conaplained that the quotations are not "exactly" accurate. The State Federation ofLesbians, Gays, Transse~ uals and Bisexuals demanded that Sofia recant her reported statements. as any others," he said. "This latest step forward for our communities is an important reminder that lesbian and gay families are every bit as loving and tender and magical as any other." Irish president condemns Speaking at a GLBT youth forum in Galway on Oct. 30, Irish President Mary McAleese condemned anti-gay bullying. "Homophobic bullying continues to be a societywide issue, including in our schools, and the link between it and suicide sends a clear message that this trend must be reversed," she said. "By refusing to go along with loudly voiced prejudices, we can overcome the bias and hostility experienced by many young gay people throughout the country." McAleese also said people don’t choose to be gay but rather discover that they’re gay. Australian de facto couples who split to be treated as divorced Australia’s Senate passed a bill Oct. 16 to treat unmarried couples who break up the same as married couples who divorce. The measure, which was returned to the lower house for approval ofSenate anaendments, will create a uniform national standard for separating de facto coupmsles, gay and straight, sending them to federal family-law courts to work out property settlements, pension splits and other Issues. Attorney-General Robert McClelland said the changes are "long overdue." 14 ~÷troSTAR December 2008 "In my junior high school years at Wilson Jr. High I delivered the Tulsa Daily "World morning paper on horseback for three years on what was then a two lane country road called Yale Ave. I had to quit riding horseback because the customers of a new housing development called "White City" complained that my horseback deliveries was tearing up their beautiful yards. I graduated in the 10th graduating class of Will Rogers High Schoo! in 1949." "The start of my dancing career was 1950 ~vhen I joined the new qfillsa Opera Ballet. ~-his was the time when opera companies retrained a Corps de Ballet and operettas were popular. ~l~.e Tulsa Opera_ Ballet would practice in the ballroom of Richard Mansfield Dickenson’s home on Riverside Drive and F!ouston Ave., which is now known as the Spotlight Theater on Riverside Dr. "t received a scholarship in 1952 to study dance with the "Ruth St. Denis Dance Foundatioff’ in Hollywood. While I was there I also studied ballet and jazz at the "Eugene Loring School of Ballet. M1 of the great dancers of the Holly~vood musicals of the 50’s would teach in their idle time at Loring’s studio, t was honored to take classes with some of Hollywood’s best. I was accepted with 150 other dancers in the Chorus of"On the Rivera" staring Danny Kaye and the Great "Gwen -Verdoff’. However, I nm~er made it to the final Audition because my dance career was interrupted in 1953 with a draft call from UNCLE SAM. Thinking my dance career was oveI; ! found it was just beginning." Photo: Bill Franc#co served in the A4ilimry 1953-1955 "My tour of duty took me to the occupation forces in Augsburg, Germany. I was blessed! They allowed me to continue my volunteer dancing for tile kindergarten kids in West Germany." "I was honored for nay volunteer dancing in Germany by becoming the only American awarded a medal by the city of "Augsburg at the 1954 Fashing Festival. They even wrote a nice article about me in the Augsburg newspaper which was in Get,nan and I didn’t understand a word of it. I sent it home to my mother in NAsa and she gave it to the Tulsa \Vorld to interpret and they published it in English in the Tulsa World Sunday Mar. 21, 1954." "Rett,rning home to Tialsa in 1955, I again auditioned for the renowned Tulsa Opera. I landed the leading male dancer, all with gold pigment and Crisco! I was beautiful (like an Oscar) but I had to work the next day. I took a shower to wash the gold pigment away and my hair turned green! I went to work and was ridiculed, LOL, the boy with the green hair." "In 1956 1 began dancing with the "Tulsa Civic Ballet" today knmvn as Tulsa Ballet Inc. I danced the premier of The Nutcracker and also performed the first Dr. Coppelius In Tulsa at the Municipal Theater today our Lady on Brady I also danced in the first two summer musicals with the "Tulsa Little Theater" at the 15th and Delavcare Playhouse." keShe could er my given name. She what my name was and \ in his usual vivacious reply said "just// CLOGGERB I //, Because volunteer dancing could not sustain me financially, I went to work for American Airlines in 1955. In 1961 American decided to move their finance department to NYC where they purchased their first computer. This was my opportunity to see hmv the professionals dance in the Big Apple. Let me tell you, I was just a little worm in the Big Apple. What a culture shock, nobody does volunteer dancing in New York. Everyone is a union professional. ! realized my love of country folk music, bluegrass and clogging there. I studied with the International School of Dance one semester. I realized dogging was what I wanted to dance the rest ofmy life. Isn’t is ironic? I fell in love with dogging in ]"FYC and had it all around me growing up in Tulsa. I returned home to Tulsa after 13 years in New York and spent all my free time attending clogging classes and workshops. The IGRA had become very popular with clogging teams throughout the U.S. and Tulsa. I attended a fund-raiser for OGRA in 1987 at "STROKES" and saw the renowned "Bunkhouse Cloggers" from Oklahoma City perform. I was so excited and impressed to see a rodeo clogging team that I wanted to form one from Tulsa for OGRA. Thus the "GREEN COUNTRY CLOGGERS" ~vere born in 1988. The Green Country- Cloggers became famous from the Mississippi west to Los Angeles, dogging to standing ovations in Oklahoma City, Dallas, Phoenix, Denver, Los Angles, Kansas, Joplin and Tulsa..We performed for two seasons at Tulsa Mayfest and the Bluegrass/Chilifest. When the Green Country Cloggers moved their practices to Tulsa’s Silver Star for bigger dance space we were doing a big fund-raiser to raise money to take the cloggers to Los Angeles ~br a rodeo performance. Our Mistress of Ceremonies was a eighteen year old (not old enough for the bar) known as KA~S KOHL. To this day in 2008, Kris Kohl has done more benefits and fun&raisers than any other entertainer in Tulsa and she is the real legend of this community. Our music maestro, arranger, recording artist and D. J. from the cloggers conception in 1988 was Ron Greenwood. Thank you Quake for all your loyalty and contributions to the cloggers. Kris Kohl was to introduce my solo. She could not remember my given name. She asked Qtmke what my name was and in his usual vivaciotrs reply said "just call him CLOGGERBILL" And from that time on, fbr 18 years, to the birth of"Santa, I have been known as "CLOGGERBILL" Now I’ve forgotten my real n~e. I left the Green Country Cloggers in the capable hands of the worlds best Leather Clogger "Gene West" who took the cloggets to new heights. I formed the "OK Country Cloggers" from other Cloggers around Tulsa. We performed benefits for Tulsa Opera at Cains Ballroom and Tulsa Ballet Inc, at Harwellen. The OK Country Cloggers quickly dwindled into a trio competition team. The Ok Country Cloggers had performed for two seasons for "Black Gold Days" in Glenpool. I was teaching a clogging class at the community center. They asked if I would dress as Santa and clog for the kids at their Children’s Christmas Party, of course I said yes. That was the birth of"Santa Clog". The kids just loved Santa Clogging and a lot of adults also. The next year I created my own Santa Suit, and started growing nay own beard with theatrical white wash. Since I’ve performed hundreds of Santa Clog benefits over the past ten years. It was so much fun (because I’m such a ham), that’s when I decided I wanted to be the real Santa for the rest of my life. In 2004 1 entered "SANTA_" in the Grand Lake dogging championship in Grove, Oklahoma. I had worked so hard on the choreography that I pinched the ~ciatic nerve in my left hip and neuropathy begin to set in. But I kept going. I knew I had to win that competition before I could qualify for National World Competition. I did win mad took 1st place in that show. I guess when you stop your career, you should always stop at the top, when everyone knows who you are, not what you were. I tried to do a couple more Santa Clog benefits in 2005 but my leg was in such pain I could not continue. I then had lower back surgery and the severe pain was gone but the neuropathy would not go away. I would like to thank my two very best friends for sticking by me and helping me through this crisis. Mr. Paul: (aka), Helga. another community legend of spirit, giving, benefits and caring, for getting me the best surgeons, standing by me thru surgery and coming by my home on his way to ~vork every day to wash my ass and change my bandages. Arnie XWard, for taking so much time offwork to take me back and forth from exams, doctors and hospitals. SANTA loves you both so dearly. I would not have survived without you. No~v Santa only does children benefits, private corporate parties and my favorite adult bars: N0 eio~ng; just takAng pictures, giving out pre~ents havi@ ~ iittl~ ~,~ arid .... loving every moment. Now I am one of the most sought after Santa’s in Tulsa. I begin getting requests for appearances in July for the December season. Santa has appeared in four magazine and six newspaper articles. Someday I dream of Santa dancing again in the spirit of the season. From 1937 to 2004 (67 years) I have danced over 350 performances, benefits and fund-raisers for the Tulsa and su> rounding communities. I was actually paid union wages for one show. The Vandever’s summer fa~shion show at Southern Hills Country Club about 30 years ago. So, if you divide the $50.00 into 350 performances, I have been paid just about .07 cents per performance. Does that make me a professional volunteer? I would like to take this opportunity to let the world know how very much I appreciate all the support and devotion of good friends, entertainers and bar~8~ners (past and present) for helping me do what I love best, DANCE !! As Santa said when he rode out of sight, Happy Holidays and to all a Good Night ! ,~w.metrostarnews.com ~etroSTAR 15 QEe’ Syrah, Syra :: Celebrate the holidays with a cool red wine Briefhistory ~ais grape may not be commonly associated with the holidays like other red wines, however, this varietal rates highly among the most elegant, tastefhl and food friendly wines. To that end, I recommend that we consider adding a bottle or two to our wine shopping list for this season. We have much to celebrate and sharing wine & food with friends & family is the best thingwe can do. For most wine lovers, as we talk about Syrah or Shiraz; two specific places ofthe xvorld come tO mind: Rh6ne Valley in France and Australia. Syrah is found in other wine regions of the ~vorld, though- California, Italy and South Africa- hmvever the reference areas of this grape are still considered France and Australia, each being identifiable for its particular style. Ofcourse, of the two regions, the one having a longer tradition is the Rh6ne Valley, whereas in Australia, Syrah - or Shiraz, as it is commonly known in the land ofkangaroos - has a history shorter than two centuries. (which translates as New Castle common in southern Languedoc-Roussillon blended with Grenache Noi C Syrah fro aromas ofblack pepper - associated with wines Food parings The northern part of the Rh6ne Valley, in France, remains one of tl~e undisputed reference point.s for the production ofwines made with the Syrah grape. The best examples of varietal Syrah, are the ones produced with the appellations Hermitage, C6te-R6tie, Cornas, St-Joseph and Crozes-Hermitage. Wines produced in these areas have Strong fruit aromas, a good acidity, dry body and an appreciable mineral taste. Hermitage has a deep color and intense fruit aromas, in particular black currant, full body and evident astringency. Syrah is also common in the southern part ofRh6ne Valley and it is used in Ch~teauneuf-du-Pape to emit often area. Trinity ’04- Oregon Slammer ’06- California Pousseur ’06- California to your favorite wine purchase a bottle or ~d & wine with friends and r yourself. Syrah is a good turkey or ham F ’ " who knew ? We always think Pinot best red wine choice. A lot may hinge on the way your meat is prepared. Appetizers with veggies or cheeses with a sharp like flavor can also pair ~vell. This writer also bar tends and hosts wine & food events known in town as the Wine Enthusiasts ofTulsa. www.~neSpectato~:com www.Foodand~ne.com ............. www.~Vikipedia.org This months recipe courtesy of: Directions: Ogunquit, Main Christmas Goose With Cabbage About 4 hours before ser~,ing: Remove giblets and neck from goose. Refrigerate giblets and neck to use in soup another Discard fat from body cavity; rinse goose with running cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Fasten neck skin to the back with 1 or 2 skewers, With goose breast-side up, lift wings up toward neck, then fold under back of goose. With string. tie legs and tail together. With fbrk, prick goose skin in several places. Place goose, breast-side up, on rack in open roasting pan. Rub goose with 2 teaspoons salt. Insert meat thermometer into thickest part of meat between breast and thigh, being careful tha pointed end of thermometer does not touch bone. Roast goose in 350 degree oven about 3 hours. Start &ecking for doneness during last 30 ~ninutes of roasting goose. slotted spoon, remove bacon to paper travels to drain. In bacon fat in saucepan over medium heat, cook green cabbage, onion, caraway seeds, and I teaspoon salt until cabbage and onion are very tende}, about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally; keep warm, About 20 minutes before goose is done, in small saucepan, heat red currant jelly and marsala. Brush goose occasionally with idly mixture. Goose is done when thermometer reaches 180 degrees to 185 degrees and thickest part ofleg feels sof~ when pressed ~th fingers protected by paper towels. When goose is done, remove skewers and string. Linep,latter with reserved red and green cabbage leaves. Place goose on cabbage leaves: let stand 10 minutes for easier carving. Spoon red and green cabbage on platter with goose. t frozen goose (12 pound size), thawed salt 1 medium sized head red cabbage I medium sized head green cabbage 1 medium sized onion 1 large green cooking apple 1 package (8 ounce size) sliced bacon 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar 2 teaspoons sugar 1 teaspoon caraway seeds 1/4 cup currant jelly 2 tablespoons &T marsala wine Mier goose has roasted fbr I hour. prepare red andgreen, cabbage’, reserve fi.~v outer leaves of red and green cabbage for garnish. Slice red and green cabbage and onion; dice apple; cut bacon into 1/2 inch pieces, In 12-inch skillet over medium- lmv h~r. cook half of bacon until browned. With slotted spoon, remove bacon to paper towels to drain. In bacon tht in skillet over medium heat, cook red cabbage, apple, red wine vinegar, sugm; and 1 teaspoon salt until cabbage is very tender, about 25 minutes. stirring occasionally; keep warna. Meamvhile, in ~-quart saucepan over medium-low heat, cook remaining bacon until browned.iWith Jonathaffs Restaurmat ~ Bourn it into a )resence 16 #~®troSTAR December 2008 Trace Adkins At the BOK Center, Tulsa TRACE ADKINS with special guests: Craig Morgan &Jason Michael Carroll Tickets On Sale Oct 3 @ 10am Ticket Prices: $52 and $42 When Trace Adldns appears on stage, his towering presence and floor-shaldng baritone instantly energizes the crowd. With a string ofhits spanning more than a decade like "Honky Tonk Badonkadonk; "Hot Mama," "I Got lVly Game On," and "Ladies Love Country Boys;’ and his powerful, heart-stirring ballads like "I’m Tryin;’ "Arlington;’ "Every Light In The House;’ and "I Came Here To Live;’ Adldns takes his audience on a roller coaster ride ofemotions. Cirque du SoleiFs Saltimbanco Dec 10, 2008 to Dec 14, 2008 at BOK Center Cirque du Soleil’s Saltimbanco December 10th at 7:30 December 1 lth at 7:30 December 12th at 3:30 & 7:30 December 13th at 3:30 & 7:30 December 14th at 1:00 & 5:00 Ticket Prices:S97, $77, $62, and $42 Group tickets: For groups of+20 or more receive 10% offyour tickets, group discounts do not apply to Friday or Saturday show times. For group tickets please call 918-894-4252 Cirque du Soleil weaves its magic in Tulsa for the first time with Saltimbanco. Saltimbanco is the very first "classic" Cirque du Soleil touring show to be presented in arena. The Saltimbanco arena tour, proudly presented by iShares, will performed 8 shows at the BOK Center from December 10 to 14 inclusively. December At ~lhe P.A.C. Tulsa Performance Dates 3 FREE Brown Bag It: Tulsa Festival Ringers John H. Williams Theatre 4-28 FREE Artist Janet Duvall PAC Gallery 5 Available by Subscription Tina Brown Chapman Music Hall I View Interactive Seating Chart 6 BUY Christmas with TOC Chapman Music Hall I View Interactive Seating Chart 11-14, 16-23 BUY A Christmas Carol John H. Williams Theatre Dec 12-t4, 19-21 _ Wind in the Willows, Charles E. Norman Tl~eatre Dec 12-14, 17-20 BUY The Santaland Diaries, Liddy Doenges ~eatre Dec 13-14, t8-21 BUY The Nutcracker (Tulsa) Chapman Music Hall More ENTERTAINMENT see page 20 www.metrostarnews.com INSIDE HOLLYWOOD By Romeo San Vicente Deep Inside Hollywood, which reports on new projects for Nicole Kidman and Jane Fonda Fonda Returns to Broadway with Moises Kaufman She’s a producer, memoirist, exercise guru, and multi-Oscar-winning actress, but fihn legend Jane Fonda’s roots go all the way back to Broadway. And while she hasn’t strutted and fretted her hour upon the stage since the early 1960s, Fonda is preparing her return to the Great White Way in a new play ~vritten and directed by Moises Kaufman, the gay writer behind "The Laramie Project". "33 Variations" focuses on a musicologist (Fonda) and her study ofBeethoven’s obsession with a particular piece of music. Fonda hasn’t been completely absent from the stage--in recent years, she:s participated in several one-night-only special presentations ofEve Ensler’s "The Vagina Monologues". Get ready for New York to be abuzz when the woman who was Barbarella returns to Broadway this winter. Landon’s Career Remains Hot with "Burning Palms" "Burning Pahns" may sound like a clothing-optional gay resort, but it’s actually the new film written and directed by Christopher Landon, the openly gay son ofTVlegend Michael Landon. On the heels of Christopher’s success as the co-writer of the hit "Disturbia", dais Holl)-a,ood legacy returns with a new satire that pokes fun at the residents ofvarious segments ofLos Angeles, and "Burning Palms" boasts an interestingly eclectic ensemble. Slated to star in the fihn are Dylan McDermott, Shannen Doherty, Lake Bell, Nick Stahl, Zoe Saldana, Adriana Barraza ("Babel"), Colleen Camp and Rosamund Pike. They’ll play characters whose storylines overlap in five different vignettes set in different L.A. neighborhoods. Vditch for the smoke in 2009. Kidman and Tneron Go Out [’or "Danish" Nicole Kidman and Chadize Theron both won Oscars for playing lesbians and for ~vearing fake noses--in "The Hours" mad "Monster", respectively--but the mind reels about what kind ofprostheses will be required for their next movie. "The Danish Girl" will star the duo as real-life artists Einar and Greta Wegener. Einar (Yddman) began life as a man but later became the world’s first transsexual in 1931; Einar’s road to womanhood began xvhen he stood in for a female model in a painting that Greta (Theron) was creating. Anand Tucker ("Shopgirl", "Hilary and Jackie") will direct from Lucinda Coxon’s adaptation ofDavid Ebershoff’s book. Look for Kidman and Theron to astound the world almost as much as the real Wegeners did, when "Tne Danish Girl" eventually hits theaters. Soon, We’ll MI Be "Spartacus" The smash success of"300" put muscular, leggy men in togas back on the ctfltural radar, and "Xena" exec producer Sam Raimi (who directed some obscure art films with "Spider-Man" in the tide) intends to keep them there. Raimi is one ofthe driving forces behind "Spartacus", a new series for the Starz cable channel that centers around a legendary slave rebellion against the Roman Empire. Insiders say the show will shoot for the same intense violence and distinctive graphic-novel look ofboth "300" and "Sin City", so Romeo figures that means lots ofoiled up, brawny lugs fighting each other to the death in leather miniskirts. And that’s good TV! "Spartacus" starts shooting in New Zealand at the beginning ofthe year ~vith an eye to unfurling its muscular majesty on Starz next summer. N~troSTAR 17 entire country, we want to thank the gays and lesbians in California for fighting this batde for us. And keep fighting until we win! by Donald Pile and Ray Williams GAY TRA¥ LER’S, BOYCOTT UTAH "Morman Church Millions Help Pass Prop 8" Photo: Salt Lake CiF Temple things "right", it is time for the rest ofgays and lesbians in the rest of the country to do what they can to help. M1 travelers have a choice..... a choice as to where to go, where to stay, where to dine and where to visit. A few years ago the state of Colorado made some very bad decisions and thousands and thousands ofboth business as well as personal travelers made the choice NOT to visit or spend any money in that state. The state was financially hurt terribly by that boycott as conventions and business meetings were canceled. Fortunately the state mended its ways and now the gay community has once again started visiting the state. We are extremely" proud ofthe fact that Colorado elected the first openly gay congressman, Jared Polls. He was certainly the best person for that position. So secondly; we are telling our readers to BOYCOTT UTAH ! Salt Lake City is the world headquarters of the Mormons and the Mormon’s account for about 62% of the population of Utah. Tourism brings in about $6 billion a year to Utah. They have ~vorld-class skiing, the film festival among many, things. Thousands ofMormons worked as volunteers and spent tens ofmillions ofdollars on Proposition 8. As just one gay couple out of the nearly 20,000 gay couples who were LEGALLY married this summer in California, we resent the Mormon Church’s involvement in our civil rights. Is it okay they can have 10 spouses, but yet deny us to have just one ? Mormon spokesmen say that they had a right to do ~vhat they did. \Ve also have a right to do what we are doing, ha 2008 you just cannot take away anybody’s civil rights and expect not to get a backlash. You cannot take away our legal marriage and get away with it. No, NO, NO! Photo: Golden Gate B,;idge San Francisco. Califo, saia’sflght against Prop 8failed on November 4 mobilizing hundreds ofthousands who held protest rallies around the world. Visit California. And now we come to Proposition 8. As one ofthe nearly 20,000 gay couples who were LEGALLY married this summer, we were devastated with the results on Nov. 4. Since we do not live in Cali~brnia we are not able to attend any of the rallies and protest marches but our readers from around the country have sent us dozens and dozens ofemails asking what they can do. We have told them two things. First, GO to California, spend money with those ~vho are wanting our business. There are thousands ofstraight owned businesses in California who are on our side. There are thousands ofgay mvned businesses who have worked hard on defeating Proposition 8 as well as thousands and thousands ofgays and lesbians who went door to door and worked tirelessly. They are all to be conm~ended highly. They did not sit idly by and just hope for a victory. They worked long and hard. So as the gays and lesbians who live in California take to the streets and protest and march and do whatever that they can to have the California Supreme Court step in and make No matter what state you live in, BOYCOTT the Mormon Church but by all means BOYCOTT the entire state of Uta!! Don’t go there, don’t spend your gay dollars there, don’t purchase anything from any company that is based in Utah. There will be plenty oflistings of businesses who gave money for Proposition 8. Boycott them all! The gaypress in California has done and will continue to do a fabulous job ofkeeping all ofus informed about Proposition 8. This is not just a California story, but a story for the entire country. With Barack Obama becoming the first African-American President of the country it wotfld have been nice to think that prejudices were going to be a thing ofthe past. However the Mormon Church proved us wrong about that. Hate still does exist and mainly in the eyes ofthe Mormon Church. Photo: Echo Lake Denver; CO. Fortunately Colorado mended it’s ways and now thegay community has once again started visiting the state. On behalfofmillions ofgays throughout the Eureka Springs Tourism Increases Despite Tough Economic Times EUREKA SPRINGS, AR (PR) __ In one of the slowest economic periods in recent memory, and at a time when other tourist destinations are experiencing downturns, this Ozarlcs getaway is doing remarkably well. Mayor Dani Joy’s o~ce reports that receipts f~r Eureka Springs city sales t~es have increased, year-to-date, 2.36% over last year. Meanwhile, City Advertising and Promotion Commission figures reflect an even larger improvement. Operations Manager Sheila Hulsey said 2008 C.A.EC. tax collections year-to-date are up 9.6% over the same period in 2007. Mayor Joy believes several factors are respon- ;ibte for the city’s strong economic showing in the face of national financial turmoil. "First of all, our community has come together this year in a coordinated effort to make the tourist’s stay in Eureka Springs the best it can be. "And, simultaneously, we’ve done a better iob of marketing ourselves." Tne mayor also cited high gas pr!ces as afactor. "When gas was near!y" $4 a gallon, travelers saved money by staying closer to home." She continued, "Some chose a domestic vacation instead of taldng an overseas flight. Many others picked a destination within a few hours drive over one a few days away." Joy also believes Eureka Springs’ relatively inexpensive lodging and meals have helped the city grow while other tourist destinations have declined. "We’re quite a bargain compared to the larger, glitzier vacations spots," she said. Finally, the city’s quiet, relaxing feel could be a factor. "When you come here you feel like you’ve stepped back in time," the mayor stated. "We have Victorian homes, locally owned shops in an historic downtown, and no stop lights or mega-malls. We’re a very refreshing escape from the rat race--and, especially these days, people value that!" Once October figures are received by the city and the C.A.P.C., Chamber of Commerce President Jeff Feldman believes they will shove an even larger improvement. "Most of our members say they’re having an excellent month," he commented. ’~md several business owners have told me they’ve had their biggest days and weekends in history." For info on Eureka Springs, contact Ken Rundel, CAPC, P.O. Box 522, Eureka Springs, AR, 72632. 479-253-7333 ken@eurekasprings.org 18 ~÷troSTAR December 2008 www.metrostarnews.com #~®troSTAR 19 OKC Civic Center Music Hall December Events Nov. 28 - Dec. 20 A NICE FAMILY GATHERING a comedy by Phil Olson Nov. 28- Dec. 21 ROMEO &JULIET Dec. 4 - Dec. 6 A VERY MERRY POPS presented by the Oklahoma City" Philharmonic Dec. 5 - Dec. 21 THEJUNGLE BOOKby Rudyard Kipling, adapted by Rick and Erin Cheek Dec. 5 - Dec. 21 A TUNA CHRISTMAS by Ed Howard, Joe Sears and Jaston Williams Dec. 6 - Dec. 7 THE NUTCRACKERpresented by the Tulsa Ballet Dec. 7 CANTERBURY CHRISTMAS Dec. 11 CARLOS MENCIA Dec. 12 John Prine with Iris DeMent Dec. 13 - Dec. 21 THE NUTCRACKER - OI<C Ballet CompaW Photo afMike P~,or in American ~eatre Co’s produ~:tion ~se Santaland Diaries. Photo by MichadErvin, Ervin Productions. TULSA, OK (PRy __ The Santaland Diaries, a merrily subversive t~ale, is David Sedaris’ humorous and acerbic acconnt ofworking as an elf at Macy’s in Manhattan. It has become an ’anti-holiday’ cult classic. NPR humorist and best-selling author David Sedaris made his comic debut reading his "Santaland Diaries" on National Public Radio’s Morning Edition. Sedaris’ sardonic humor and incisive social critique have since made him one ofNPR’s most popular and humorous commentators. In 2001, Sedaris became the third recipient ofthe Thurber Prize for American Humor, and was named by Time magazine as "Humorist of the Year." The Santdand Diaries runs December 12th through 20th in the Doenges Tneatre ofthe Tulsa Performing Arts Center. Curtain time is at 8:15 PM xvith matinees at 2:15 PM. Tickets at MyTicketO~ce.com, area Reasor’s stores, at the Performing Arts Center at 3rd and Cincinnati, or chage by phone a 596-7111. Website- www.lo bitter girl iecomics.com E-Mail- KylesBnB(~aol.com emalh bittergirl@qsyndicate.com 20 December 2008 by Jack Fertig December 2008 "Be playfut, Libra,"" Mercury is in Sagittarius stimulating talking, so work on listening. He’s tripping through aspects first to Uranus and Chiron, offedng healing through inspiration and wild experiments, then to Saturn, Neptune, and Eris, offering ways to either protect or unblock tribal notions and boundaries, especially across religious/spiritual barriers. It’s a good chance to get through to fundies in the family. ARIES (March 20-Apri~ 19): Some of the craziest ideas from your wildest dreams will have some practical application. They will need some work. Hash it out with a few friends to see how those wacky notions can fit in the real world. TAURUS (AprR 20 - May 20): How do social pressures influence your sexual autonomy? Playing with others necessarily requires some compromises, but you’re entitled to stand up for yourself. You may want to hold back on the impulse and negotiate a more fulfilling position. GEMiNi (May 21- June 20): To reconcile problems with a partner or colleague, try exploring entirely new ideas. What you eventually do work out can inspire fu[ther innovations to provide a new ~roach to long-standing problems at home. CANCER (June 21- July 22): Sexuality can be healing, catalyzing new ideas - especia!ly when you try something new! Open yourself up to exploring fantasies. The oneg that are hardest to verbalize will teach you tocommunicate in new ways. LEO {July 23 - August 22): Casual jests can be unintentionally hurtful. Be ready to apologize, and to learn something in the process. Your humor will be handier when grappling with arguments that leave you wondering What’s really important. Balancing sympathy and logic is the tdck! VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Cleaning house can help solve problems with your partner, or just bring up problems that have been hidden. Keep up the effort even if it means an argument. The make-up sex will be terrifi!! LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): Trying to be logical at work will backfire. Be playful and allow yourself to be inspired. Playing competitively with others can bdng out some long-hidden demons. Open discussion and humor can exorcise them once and for all. SCORPIO (October 23- November 2t): Set aside some money for impulse spending, but keep the receipts! Arguments with friends are especially likely, but keep in mind that these are people you have to live and work with. Keep your disagreements civil and your ego under control. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 20): You’re even more loquacious than usual, but that can help heal old family problems. Work problems are more complicated, but keep talking. Focus creative, competitive playfulness towards achieving your ambitions. CAPRICORN (December 2t - January 19): Let your mind wander a bit. Discuss the crazier dreams and ideas that emerge with a friend. Letting yourself sound a bit weird can prove valuable. You don’t have to agree with old-fashioned notions, but study them well to develop a clearer argument against them. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): Your friends are used to your weird side so don’t be shy. Revealing some of your wilder fantasies can prove therapeutic, maybe for them as well. Airing those notions can also help you clarify your sexual.boundaries. PISCES (February 19 - March t9): Some of your ambitions are unrealistic; talk privately with a boss or some expert to develop clearer goals. Then take time out to consider what you need to do to improve your relationship. Never mind your partner’s faults. What do _you_ need to do? MCCo METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES Rev Steve T. 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VVe invite anyone who ~zould like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail ourhouseloo9865@sbcglobal.net ~rhether buying or selling I’!1 work bard for you. [] WVg,r~TgZMETROSTAR2qEVgS.COM 22 {~*~{?troSTAR December 2008 Support those who support us. Their HABANA INN 2200 1"-,I%z 39TH EXPRESSV/AY Oklahoma City, OK 405-528-2221 ,a~,vw.habanainn.com Fd~LLY KIRBY, CPA 4815 S. I-IMRVARD, SUITE 424 Tulsa, OK * 918-747-5466 Cerdfied Public Accountant VALERIE WILLIFORD 625 N.~. I3th Street Oklahoma City, OK 405-226-8585 ads allow us to distribute your community news FREE to you. HOPE TESTING CLINIC 3540 E. 31st Tulsa, OK 800-535-2437 Oklahoma’s HIV/STD Hotline SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC 2902 E. 20TH STREET, Joplin, MO * 479-529-8480 Service Saturday 9:30 AM MCC of the LIVING SPRING 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Wbrship Sundays 6pm OKC MORTUARY 2415-C N. WALNUT AVE. 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BOSTON Tulsa, OK 918-584-9494 www.clubmajestictutsa.com FINISHLINE 2200 I’~77 39TH EXPRESSWAY OHahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 xwzw.habanainn.com CENTURY 21 GOLD CASTLE 3627 NW- EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405-840-2106 www.c2 tgoldcastle.com STEVES HIDEAV/AY LOUNGE 11730 E. llTH Tulsa, OK 918-437-0449 Open Sun- Sat 2pro to 2am THE COPA 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE END UP 5336 E. ADMIRAL PLACE Tulsa, OK 918-836-0915 THE LEDO 2200 I’,IW 39TH EXPRESSVc’AY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com EXPRESSIONS Comm Fellowship 6009 NW Expressway Oklahoma City, OK 405-761-1878 ~a~a~v.expressionsOKC.com L ~ L $ ~ R A A V E A N I ! A T N A R N D 0 C R E E R ! $ E E A "A H A L A $ A P A R T 0 N A N N E ¥ W O 0 Og $ AB L ! AG 0 A D RE N RO AR GA U P S S E S $ T www.metrostarnews.com N®troSTAR 23 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2008] Metro Star Magazine, December 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 12 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource December 01, 2008 Subject The topic of the resource Politics, education, and social conversation over LGBTQ+ topics Description An account of the resource The Metro Star’s first issue began in August of 2008. Before this issue was Ozarks Pride (2004), The Ozark’s Star (2004), and The Star (2005). This magazine discusses topics of AIDs, education, politics, local and national civil rights of the LGBT community, and advice for relationships and places to visit. This collection is PDF searchable. Physical copies are also available to be seen at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center with permission. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Star Media, Ltd; Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Star Media, Ltd Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Greg Steele James Nimmo Joey D. Victor Gotin Rex Wockner Susan A. Muscari Vernon Britt Romeo San Vicente Andrew Collins Donald Pile Ronald Blake Ray Williams Jack Fertig Devre Jackson Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Image PDF Online text Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource magazine Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Southwest Missouri West Arkansas Southeast Kansas Eastern Oklahoma The United States of America (50 states) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://history.okeq.org/collections/show/19 Relation A related resource Metro Star Magazine, November 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 11 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/200 The Metro Star Magazine, January 1, 2009; Volume 6, Issue 1 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/132 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context https://history.okeq.org/items/show/199 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/076a5bb6a56465df4fdce16156314088.jpg 9827cfd2bb72d258ee41dcc7d49917d5 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/20c2dab467cae8b8f01ea335c9dbeacc.pdf 9eb53b6a9f42eeb9ec85a375edbac995 PDF Text Text WWW.METROSTARNEWS.COM NOVEMBER 1, 2008 "WE DELIVER DIVERSITY" By Metro Star Staff U.S. Senator Barack Obama State Senator Andrew Rice Andrew Rice, currently a State Senator District 46, is running against incumbent Republican James Inhofe for U.S. Senate Corp. Commissioner fim Roth Ron Marlett Chad Hawkins Dana Orwig Democrat Ron Marlett is run"I think any crime committed Dana Orwig is running against ning against incumbent Repub- against a person because of Republican Jason Nelson, who lican Sally Kern of State House their sexual orientation that is worked as a fund-raiser in District 84. not considered a hate crime, 2001, raising $6 million dollars is unacceptable. A hate crimes glii ~tis~be ~a ~to i~t~de Anarew born April When Jim Roth was elected opp~rt~fiity to run against a sexual orient,+ion/’ Tulsa 23, 1973, attended Casady state representarive with mo~ to represent thd citizens 0f ~emScrat Chad Hawldns for Dana Orwig is running f’or Blade on Sept. 10. College in 1996 with a Oklahoma Countys D~stnct nation~ (and even som~ ifite> state Re~+++ntatig+ Di++ric~ the second time to reprenati0nal) fiotoriety. Sal!~ bachdor’s degree in Religious 1 in 2002, it was a mile~9 against[ Repiiblidm~ i~eumr sent the constituents of State "Michelte and I have been Studies, then went on to stone not only to the GLBT the ineumbefit for House District 87. She ran b+nt Weld0fi Wat+ofi! receive his Masters in Theo- community but also for ,vas already we!! lmo~ for her blessed with many openly gay unsuccessfully in 2006 against logical Studies from Harvard Oklahoma County residents agenda as a self-described "warand lesbian friends and cotRepublican incumbent Trebor Divinity School in 1999. leagues whom we have been rior for Judeo-Christian values". Chad Hawldns, born in Tul- Worthen, who is not running who longed for positive sa, a graduate of Jenks High From 1996 to 1999, he stud- change. close to for many years," the She crusaded against the book for the position again. Now not ied drug addiction problems School, Tulsa Community "King and King" being in the Democratic presidential candihaving to run against an incumand treatment in urban India. Needless to say, they got it. Children’s Section of Oklahoma College and Northeastern date said. "xghile that fact has bent, with a better campaign During graduate school he State University. "I believe made the issues facing the Public libraries, referring to it A welcome change during and strategy and voters more produced a documentary in this country, I believe in his first term was that he as "obscene" and claiming that hungry for change, she is very the State of Oklahoma and I optimistic about this upcoming ..... Cont. see OBAMA pg-6 ..... Cont. see RICE pg-6 Oklahoma libraries were atgot 8 bridges built in his tempting to "sexualize your chil- believe in the City of Tulsa. district, while his predeelection. Unfortunately, poor leaderdren." SWnen minimum wage cessor only got one. He i spearheaded expanding a was $5.15 an hour she opposed ship and lack of or simple She has lived in the District disregard for foresight and raising it, wanting a study of policy of nondiscriminafor more than 28 years, with how people on this income level planning has lead to a rotting her husband Steve, who is a tion for Oklahoma County By Vicor Gorin infrastructure, substandard budget their money. During employees that included physician Oklahoma City’s VA education, and a dependence hospital. They have 2 daughhearings on immigration, she sexual orientation and the OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__ For over 10 years Red Rock on foreign energy sources due ters, along with 2 son in-laws North provided free HIV testing and counseling at their former handicapped. Jim not only asked a wimess who stated that to a failed national energy won widespread respect for she was Puerto Rican if she was and 2 lively grandsons. She has OKC location on the N.\V. 39th Street Strip. It came to be a policy." himself, but unprecedented an American. But ,#chat finally been ordained as a deacon in haven where those questioning their HIV status, those affected prompted Ron Marlett to run respect for the office itself. the Episcopalian Church, and by HIV, and those needing to learn more about it could seek For more info. visit: was hearing the infamous This was dearly shown has served in ways ranging from help in a non-judgmenta! place. Now located inside the Red Hawkins4tulsa.com .... Cont. see MARLETT pg-6 Rock Behavioral Health Services Headquarters at 4400 N. .... Cont. see ORWIG pg-6 .... Cont. see ROTH pg-6 Lincoln Boulevard, they still provide those services in the same way, their mission unchanged. The testing clinic is located on the 2nd floor, and the testing is free and confidential on a walk-in basis from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday thru Thursday, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Fridays. Testing is free & available for those over 13 years old. "A_merica, this is our moment. This is our time. Our time to turn the page of the policies of the past." Jim Roth-incumbent Democrat Oldahoma Corporation Commissioner running against Republican Dana Murphy. ROCK NORTH NEW PLACE, SAME MISSION Other services are provided as well, including mental health and substance abuse assistance & counseling focused mainly on the GLBT community and/or those who are HIV infected or affected. Red Rock is a nonprofit agency, worldng in partnership with the Oklahoma State Health Department, that also ........... Continued see RED ROCK pg-11 Latino Night at Local Club Successful Law ~ gays m �~Marl~t. "I’m Ron Marlett and I’m running for State House District 84 because I want a chance to bring about change that really matters for my fellow Oklahomans: good jobs, affordable healthcare, a quality educational system and real freedom and equality." I NEED YOUR HELP TO WIN THIS ELECTION, WE CAN MAKE ~T HAPPEN! need money and volunteers! Ron Mar~ett RO. Box 854 Bethany, OK 73008 (405) 640-2069 www.ronmarlettforhousedistrict84.com �www.metrostarnews.com ~t~oSTAR 3 �LATINO NIGHT AT OKC’s ANGLES Sabados maravillosas otre veces! By Victor Gorin When Latino night debuted at Angles September 28, it was a time of anxious anticipation. ~fhere had been numerous attempts to bring business up at Angles since Nick Post had acquired it last year. During the last few ),ears Angles had gone from being packed on the weekends to virtually empty, and there had been many ideas and brainstorms to bring back the crowds they had before. One of these was Latino Night, featuring Spanish music where GLBT Latinos & their friends could celebrate their culture and be themselves, something that had been successful at the late Club Rox ( inside the late Hollywood Hotel) and at Sisters (a former Lesbian dub now the location of Phoenix Rising). This was a party with no place to go that Latino partiers were dying to celebrate. it, "We could go to straight Latino clubs where we guys could not dance together. At gay clubs we could occasionally hear Latino music, but we knew we needed a place of our own where we could dance together, enjoy our music and culture as Latinos." He wants to thank those who helped him make it happen. "The Gay Latino community is growing, and the people helping me have been wonderful, bringing music, giving me ideas, being together and supporting each other as one, and I want to thank these people who helped me put this together." For the community, it fills a need. As Latina Yogi Doroteo puts it,"It means a lot for our community, it gives the gay Latino community a place to go, to meet other Latinos. It also helps the community as a whole get to l~aaow us better, and that is needed." Spearheading this effort was DJ Juan Adame, who with his friends spearheaded the idea. The first night was trepidation personified, but they distributed flyers, talked it up, texted & emaited everybody they knew and hoped for the best. Needless to say Angles was overvchelmed ~vith a huge crowd of partiers, gay and lesbian Latinos, some Asians, some Caucasians, and some straight people who know a good time when it’s happening, many coming from Tulsa and other places to fiesta with the locals. It needed to happen because as DJ Juan puts P~6~n a suc~es~ Latifi6 nigh~ Will h~n ev~ ery other Saturday at Angle.s for those seeking tiempos buenos ( good times). It obviously was long overdue. ( November Schedule is Saturdays 8 & 11) Transgender Day o£Remembrance Observance On November 20th at Dennis R. Neill Equality Center Gender Advocacy Team, and other community leaders for a special evening remembering individuals who have died as victims ofantitransgender hatred or prejudice. The event will be at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center on Thursday, November 20th, 2008, at 7:00 PM. ~ne Equality Center is located at 621 E. 4th Street, on the corner of 4th Street & Kenosha in Downtown Tulsa, Oldahoma. "Sometimes, as a cornmunity, we forget the struggles of people who are not as visible as others. Yet, I am proud of our organization’s commitment to the full inclusion of the transgender community. This June saw a very successful "Gender Avengers" production celebrating the "T" of LGBT Pride. We have very dedicated transgender volunteers, program participants and committee leaders. The full participation of all members of our community is essential to fulfilling our mission." said OkEq Board President Toby Jenkins. Zoey Sloane, a member of the Pride Marketing Team and the Gender Advocacy Team, noted that, "Discrimination and violence towards gay and lesbian people, as well as towards transgender people, is usually because of a real or perceived gender or gender-role variance. A guy is targeted because he’s "too feminine," or a girl is targeted because she’s "too butch." It really has much more to do with gender issues than sexual orientation. Hopefully, that realization will cause more people tobe commi~t~ ~ th~ ~!! i~[~ ...... ~i0~; ~f’e~ ~nd ~fiality 6f ~ebpl~ who af~ ..... transgender." According to the website http://gender. org/remember/day/, the Transgender Day of Remembrance serves the purpose of raising public awareness of hate crimes against transgendered people. It publicly mourns and honors the lives of our brothers and sisters who might otherwise be forgotten, and it allows the expression of love and respect for real people here in our communities in the face of local and national ignorance, indifference and hatred. TULSA, OK (PR) __ Please join the members and friends of Oklahomans for Equality(OkEq), the members of the OkEq CC United Metropolitan Community Church 4 ~et;oSTAR Sunday Services @ 11:00 AM 1623 N, Maplewood Tulsa, OK www,mcctu sa,o g November 2008 �wv,~N.metrostarnews.com ~et~’~STAR 5 �GLBT community more personal, the fundamental reasons I have for supporting equality are greater than any individual .... We need to end the divisive politics of George W. Bush and pursue policies that treat all of us, regardless of identity or background, with dignity, equality and respect." Obama vowed, "If elected, I would call on Congress to enact legislation that would repeal DOMA and ensure that the over 1,100 federal legal rights and benefits currendy provided on the basis of marital status are extended to same-sex couples in civil unions and other legally recognized unions." For more information visit: w~wa~.BarrackObama.com entitled Ashes, which focused on the AIDS epidemic there. Back home again, he won election to the Oklahoma State Senate in 2006, representing approximately 71,000 people in central Oldahoma City. He has served on the Committees of Business and Labor, Health and Human Resources (co-chair), and Public Safety and Homeland Security. He led a successful effort to make it easier for lo~ governments to donate abandoned properties for use by Habit for Humanity" for lo~v income housing. He also authored legislation to create a State Veteraffs Health Insurance Program to provide coverage to uninsured Oklalaoma veterans. for our cars or flip a light switch, as,vell as many other blessings ~ve take for granted. He has proven himself again in the time he has already served on the Commission that he is beholden to the people and not special interests, and has the courage to stand up for ~vhat is rig~ht even if he has to stand alone. As Jim puts it: "I’m standing for over 3 million Oklahomans who want a brighter tomorrow. I’m mindful that it takes an oath, a responsibility and the ethics to serve 100% of this state. It’s been my honor to take the oath to do it, and I hope for the opportunity to continue to serve." Sunday school teacher to prison ministry. She has been a teacher in both public and private schools, and truly understands firsthand issues of education. She also understands and is committed to the needs of working Oklalaonaans. Endorsed by the AFL-CIO Central Labor Council, she is committed to helping Oklal~oma’s small businesses stay competitive and supporting the companies already here. VC-hen asked if she supports the "gay agenda", this is her answer. "I have friends and family members who are gay. I also have supporters how are gay. My position is that our government should protect the civil rights of all its citizens." recording (the one that made youmbe) of Sally Kern speaking at a Republican meeting, where she stated that gays were a bigger threat than terrorism or Islam, and compared them to cancer. Ron Marlett heard the comments about the GLBT community, and decided that he had to run, to offer the Oklahomans of District 84 something better. Currently a social worker with Community Pathways Unlimited ( an agency working with disabled and elderly people in Oklahoma nursing homes) he said in an interview with the Metro Star that he could not let Ms. Kern go unchallenged. Mr. Marlett earned an excellent score when he responded to a survey from the Oklahoma Gay & Lesbian Political Caucus, and has been an outspoken advocate for equality for all Oklalaomans. He grew up in a union household, supports workers’ rights and won the endorsement of the Oklahoma State AFLCIO, in contrast to the voting record and statements of his opponent. He faces a tough race in a very conservative district. .... His main point? " I think the biggest difference between me and my opponent is that I will fight for everyone’s freedom. She has already made it clear in her own words that not all religions or lifestyles are equal. IfI am elected to represent District 84 1 hope this will send a message not only to our state to also to our nation that our freedoms and equality are important." Unlike Senator Inhofe, who coined the phrase God Guns and Gays and has also stated that he’s proud that his family history has no homosexuality, Andrew Rice supports equalitty for all Oklahomans and will take those values to Washington. He is supported by the eace and justice community and organized bor, as opposed to Inhofe who has a 0% rating from the AFL-CIO, has opposed most minimum wage increases, and is ~vell known as a ruatter of record that he is no friend of working people. Andre~v also doesn’t share Inhofe’s view that global warming is a hoax. ~ ~ae choice could not be more clear. Let’s elect Andrew Rice to be our voice in Washington. Directory of Loca_[ Animal Shelters by his re-election in 2006 when his opponent, David Mehlhaff ran his campaign almost totally on the premise of bigotry, rarely if ever bringing up Mr. Roth’s job performance. When the constituents could see first hand the benefits of competent compassion, they recognized what was important and voted Jim back in handily with 63.4% supporting him. His abilities and dedication were recognized by Republicans and Democrats from many walks of life, including Governor Henry, who appointed him June 1, 2007 to serve Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Denise Bode’s unexpired term when she resigned to take a job in the private sector. Although many constituents don’t give it much thought, the Commission touches our lives as we get gas 6 ~/et~"oSTAR Tulsa Shelter Broken Arroxv OKC Muskogee Stillwater Coweta Siloam Sprfngs Claremore Sand Springs Jenks Owasso Sapulpa Norman Collinsville 918-669-6299 918-259-8311 405 297 3104 918 686 7297 405 372 0334 918-486 2137 479 524 6535 918 341 1260 918 246 2543 918 299 6311 918-272-4965 918 227 2722 405 321 6725 918 371 1000 Courtesy o f w,a~v.labrescue.net November 2008 �Wockner News Service Connecticut Supremes legalize same-sex marriage Three down, 47 to go. Connecticut’s Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage Oct. 10, following in the footsteps of California and Massachusetts. In a 4-3 decision, the justices said denying same-sex couples equal access to marriage violated the state constitution’s guarantee of equal protection under the law. the economy is falling apart, I don’t care what you do!"~ DeGeneres said to Leno, "They are trying to ... stop gay people from marrying, like somehow Portia and I staying at home watching Dancing With the Stars is affecting anybody." Etheridge, Michaels to marry Gov. M. Jodi Rell said she didn’t like the ruling but has no plans to oppose it. "The Supreme Court has spoken," she said. "I do not believe their voice reflects the majority of the people of Connecticut. However, I am also firmly convinced that attempts to reverse this decision -- either legislatively or by amending the state constitution -- will not meet with success." The case was brought in 2004 in New Haven Superior Court on behalf of eight gay and lesbian Connecticut couples who had been denied marriage licenses, q-he couples now have been together for between 10 and 32 years and are raising a total of 14 children. Tne court’s 85-page decision can be read online at tinyurl.com/conndec. Same-sex marriage also is legal in Belgium, Canada, the Netherlands, South Africa and Spain -- and will become legal in Norway in January. Jay Leno supports samesex marriage TV talk show host Jay Leno expressed unequivocal support for same-sex marriage on his Oct. 1 broadcast. During a chat with out talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, Leno said: "I come from Massachusetts, and they’ve had it in Massachusetts for a !ong time. And it’s.fine. Tile world doesn’t collapse. "You know, I must admit, I go to West Hollywood -- people know that’s the gay area. The nicest area, the cleanest area, the safest area. I mean, I dofft get it. I mean, if two people warn to have something together -- w~,~w.rnetrostarnews.com California protects gay seniors Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a bill Sept. 28 to help prevent anti-gay bias in senior-care facilities and nursing homes. "Interpreting our state constitutional provisions in accordance with firmly established equal protection principles leads inevitably to the conclusion that gay" people are entitled to marry," the decision said. "To decide otherwise would require us to apply one set of constitutional principles to gay, persons and another to all others." The ruling is expected to take effect around Nov. 7. Attorney General Richard Blumenthai said he ~vould not challenge the decision in any way: Backers of the gay-marriage ban say the poll should be a wake-up call to conservatives to vote. Opponents say the poll shows they have made progress in explaining that the proposal could jeopardize domestic partnership benefits that many governments and companies offer straight and gay employees. The ruling is expected to take effect around Nov. 7. Same-sex marriage also is legal in California, Massachusetts, Belgium, Canada, the Netherlands, South Africa and Spain -- and will become legal in Norway in January. There is no residency requirement to get married in the three U.S. states or Canada. Gays protest at Louisville McDonald’s The law, which takes effect Jan. 1, requires licensed health care professionals who have constant interaction with seniors to attend a training program on preventing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Singer Melissa Etheridge, 47, and actress Tammy Lynn Michaels, 33, are getting married, Etheridge told tile TV show Extra on Oct. 1. "Yes, we have four children and we’re trying to find the right time," Etheridge said. California’s Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in June. On Nov. 4, voters will decide whether to amend the state constitution to undo the ruling. Polls have shown support for same-sex marriage as high as 55 percent and as low as 42 percent. They have clocked opposition to same-sex marriage as high as 47 ~percent and as low as 38 percent. Seven to l0 percent of voters have polled as undecided on Prop 8. FLORIDA State Amendments Seem Likely to Lose "Some members of the (GLBT) community living in nursing homes have been denied their most basic rights, including the simple choice to spend time with a loved one, because of their sexual orientation or gender identity," said Equality California Executive Director Geoff Kors. "We appreciate the support of Gov. Schwarzenegger and the Legislature for approving this measure, which ¯;viii prractively create a culture of respect and understanding for all seniors living in care facilities." EQCA said basic rights such as the choice to live in the same nursing home with a partner and the right too hospital visitation are routinely denied to older same-sex couples. Connecticut residents support same-sex marriage decision A Hartford Courant/University of Connecticut poll has found that 53 percent of state residents support the Oct. 10 state Supreme Court decision that legalized same-sex marriage, and 42 percent don’t like it. Posted by Daily Queer News October 20, Among Democrats, 72 percent support it while, among Republicans, 69 percent oppose it. An effort to rewrite the Florida Constitution to prohibit gay marriage is falling short of the numbers needed for victory in the Nov. 4 election, a Sun Sentinel and Florida TimesUnion poll shows. The poll of 502 adult residents had a margin of error of 4.4 percentage points. Tne poll of 600 likely voters shows support for Amendment 2 at 53 percent, less than the 60 percent approval rate required to change the constitution. ~ae gay-marriage question is one of six statewide referendums on this year’s lengthy ballot. The poll found uncertainty high on all of the rest, which range from tax breaks for homeowners who install hurricane protection to elimination of racist language from the state constitution. In a 4-3 decision, the Connecticut justices said denying same-sex couples equal access " " ’ to marriage violated the state consntunons guarantee of equal protection under the law. "Interpreting our state constitutional provisions in accordance with firmly established equal protection principles leads inevitably to the conclusion that gay people are entided to marry," the decision said. "To decide otherwise would require us to apply one set of constitutional principles to gay persons and another to all others." Gay activists and others protested outside a downtown Louisville McDonaM’s on Oct. 10 after an employee called a gro. ~p ofgay customers ’faggots"and a sup~isor said the incidwnt was no"big deal" and refused to refiand the customers’ money. Fairness carnpaign photo Gay activists and others protested outside a downtown Louisville McDonald’s on Oct. 10 after an employee called a group of gay customers "_faggots" and a supervisor said the incident was no "big deal" and refused to refund ~e customers’ money. "For any business to treat its gay customers this way is beyond the pale," said protester Becca O’Neill from the University of Louisville’s Lambda Law Caucus. q-he demonstrators carried signs reading, "Discrimination Don’t Belong in a Happy Meal," "Homophobia Served Here" and "NOT Lovin’ It." "We have a law against anti-gay discrimination in Louisville, but we want people to know that these incidents still happen and that bttsinesses that take part in this kind of illegal discrimination will be held accountable," said Jeff: Rodgers, co-coordinator of the Fairness Campaign. Ryan Marlatt, Teddy Eggers and three friends had stopped for lunch at the East Market Street McDonald’s on July 26. As they waited for their food, an employee referred to them as "faggots" to another employee. Marlatt and Eggers asked to speak with a manager, who then refused to refund the group’s purchase. Marlatt said he attempted several times in the following weeks to contact the general manager of the restaurant and the corporate offices, but got no response. The group seeks an apology, a refund of $28 and disciplinary action against tile employees involved. }&~troSTAR 7 �LGBT Entrepreneurs Keep Going as Financial Titans Struggle delivered. We’ve had to lay offa few people and we’ve stopped giving vacation pay this year for the first time ever," he says. Marci Bair, a financial planner and employee benefits consultant in San Diego, has only gotten busier. Despite this past year’s economic slowdmvn, the recent credit crunch and plummeting stock prices on Wall Street, LGBT small business owners, like many of their straight counterparts, are successfully riding out the storm. "~lhe majority of my clients are small business owners coming in for advice on how to cut costs and [,,estructure their employee benefits," Top economists and business leaders have declared the current financial morass an "economic apocalypse," yet recent congressional action on the $700 billion bailout bill points the way to what many hope is a brighter economic future. "This bill’s success shows that Americ£s la,vmakers understand the importance of a strong economy--and particularly that the tightening credit crisis was risking the ability of small businesses to make payroll, stock shelves and keep up with day-to-day expenses," says Chance Mitchell, co-founder and CEO of the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. "In short, without this package, small businesses which make up the engine that run the United States economy seriously risked coming to an abrupt halt," Mitchell adds. The biggest threat to small businesses from U.S. financial woes is the tightening of credit markets. Credit is a lifeline for small businesses looking to grow and maintain operations, and in some places, it’s getting harder to find. Many banks are boosting credit score thresholds and tightening credit all around. "Small business owners, whether or not they use credit to run or expand their own businesses, know that access to credit and a fully functioning financial market are important to them and to their customers, suppliers and vendors," says Todd Stottlemyer, president and CEO of the National Federation of Independent Business. For LGBT small businesses, the focus is on making do in this unpredictable economy. Ask Izzy Schechner, a member of Plexus, the LGBT chamber for Cleveland, Ohio. He owns D&I Restaurant Group, a corporate catering company that’s closer than most small businesses to the banldng crisis--one of the cafeterias D&I runs is for a commercial bank. "A lot of my customers in the cafeteria are either cutting back their orders drastically or bringing food from home," says Schechner. "That has impacted our business by about 25 or 30 percent." In addition to dropping customer orders, Schechner has stopped cashing his own paycheck while making some painf~ cuts to his business. "For the first time we’ve been going to discount wholesalers like Sam’s Club and Costco to get the same products we norm_ally have 8 P#~÷t~oSTAR sa~ys Bair. We primarily look at ~il the aspects or the business where we can cut costs; a significant cost is in the health insurance area." Bair, who belongs to the her local LGBT chamber, the Greater San Diego Business Association, says that business owners for the most part want to keep as many options open for their employees as possible. "Now is not the time for employees to be without insurance," she says. "Some owners are going for a ~igher deduct!ble plan, while others want to hang in there with their current plans" in anticipation of better times. And making sure to do business in the community is key to bringing those better times back, says Sam McClure, executive director of Twin Cities Quorum, the LGBT chanaber of commerce for Minneapolis and St. Paul. "We’re seeing relationships among LGBT businesses grow e~’en tighter since this economic crisis started," says McClure. "We’re talking about how important it is to do business in your community again, even more than usual, and that’s something that we haven’t really talked about since the late 80s." McClure also points to individual measures businesses can take, and that her chamber has consistently pushed,,, such as maintaining a high credit ratin, g. ’ Planning strategically,. for growth is cruc,al now, because I dont th~nk businesses are going to have,as much flexibility as in the past, she says. ’ So being part of .the community has taken on a higher level of importance. Bair too is doing her part for the LGBT coinmunity and members of the LGBT chamber. She’s helping LGBT couples and individuals maneuver through complicated financial and health care decisions as they face layoffs and office c!osures. 8chechner says that he feels supported by fellow LGBT entrepreneurs as wellas he maneuvers through this difficult economy. "It’s comforting to have a sounding board from our chanlber of commerce, just to bounce ideas off of and to help with cost-saving strategies, networking, and to help utilize our resources to the max," he says. McClure suggests LGBT entrepreneurs practice an economics of conscience. "Whenever we earn or spend a dollar inside of our community we are flexing our considerable economic muscle. I would say to every gay and gay-friendly business owner, choose thoughtfully where you buy your next cup of coffee, where you have your next lunch meeting, where you invest your retirement funds, where you go for happy hour. "Every choice is a new opportunity to drive our economic power for change." (Source NGLCC http://v~ccw.nglcc.org/BIZ/ index ) November 2008 �How to Protect Your Loved Ones When the State Will Not Life planning helps same-sex couples protect each other. By Attorney Susan A. Muscari By ~vorking with a team of an estate planning attorney and a CPA, same-sex couples can esfablish finite directives and asset protections through a Revocable Living Trust, allmving couples to pass assets to their partner. Though the state of Oklahoma may not recognize or respect same-sex marriages, samegender trusts are recognized by the state and have not been successfully challenged. A trust, with very careful planning, can also help same-sex couples avoid several tax consequences. I~hoto: 7~dsa AttornG Susan A. 3d.,~scari Same-sex couples face several challenges when it comes to the legal and tax system, especially in the state of Oklahoma where same-gender marriages are not recognized. If one partner dies, the remaining partner may find themselves in a legal battle against the deceased~ family - unless a legally binding plan has been put into effect. Ira homosexual couple was married in a state that recognized it as legal, and then moved or returned to Oldahoma, Oklahoma still does not recognize that marriage. For same-sex couples, the tax burden is much larger than that ofheterosexua~ married couple. However, while all residents must abide by Otdahoma’s laws, there are ways to navigate them to ensure the assets and real estate of you and your partner are titled to enable fewer tax penalties. Tixere are also preparations partners can make to ensure each person’s wishes are fotlmved in the situation of a catastrophic illness, temporary incapacitation, or the event of death. ~xere are five essential documents that same-sex couples should create t~ protect themselves and their partners. Prepare an Advanced Medical Directive Setup Durable Power of Attorney Create a Revocable Living Trust Prepare a Last Will and Testament Setup an Authorization to Disclose Medical Records First, an Advanced Medical Directive allows same-sex partners to name each other as healthcare proxy, permitting a partner to speak with physicians on the other’s behalf. It is often hard on both the individual’s family and partner in times of distress and tensions can arise resulting in conflicting opinions in terms of care. The medical directive ensures there is no confusion as to who will be making the decisions on behalf of an individual if they are unable to do so for themselves. Along that same line, instituting a Durable Power of Attorney provides same-sex couples the right to make personal and financial decisions on behalfofa partner if they ever become disabled. There am two ways for domestic partners to set up a trttst; one option for couples is to set up separate trusts and designate each other as the beneficiaries. This is the best option for couples Who may have competing interests such as a child from a previous relationship. Separate trusts can provide for the child as well as the partner in a worse-case scenario situation. The second option is to create a joint trust in which the assets of both indMduals are combined into one trust. While this is the ideal for long-term couples, it is imperative to enter into this arrangement xvith the understanding that there will likely be tax consequences. Ti~e best advice for couples who decided to go the course of a shared trust is to let the assets remain in the trust. As long as the assets stay where they are, the surviving partner can avoid extreme tax consequences that same-sex couples often fall under. Palin Indicates Support for Federal Marriage Amendment Nearly 60 percent of Americans oppose writing discrimination into U.S. Constitution Lastly, with an authorization to disclose medical records and a Last Will and Testament in place, same-sex couples can institute a No Contest Clause, effectively establishing partners as personal representatives of each other. It also protects the remaining partner from anyone who may contest their rights as a representative and beneficiary. WASHINGTON, DC (PR-HRC) __ Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, the GOP nominee for vice-president, has indicated in an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network that she would support an amendment to the U.S. Constitution excluding gay and lesbian couples from marriage. The so-called Federal Marriage Amendment has faced bipartisan opposition in both houses of Congress, both of which have voted the FMA down twice. The crt~x of the matter is that there are ways to plan for domestic partners, but do not count on Oklahoma and its laws to provide that protection. Same-sex partners deserve the same protection that their heterosexual counterparts receive, but it takes careful life planning aa~d the right documents in place to do so. Sarah Pahn ~s out of step w~th the majomy of Americans, nearly 60 percent of whom are opposed to writing discrimination into the U.S. Constitution," said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. "Her view stands in stark contrast to the ideals that make America great: freedom, opportunity, and eq~,ality. These are the tenets upon which our nation was built. For a personal consultation on your specific needs, you may contact Susan at (918) 770-3423 or visit: ,aw~w.muscarilaw.com. An August 2008 poll from TIME Magazine shows that 58 percent of Americans believe that the U.S. Constitution should not be amended to define marriage as being between one man and one woman. The Human Rights Cam, paign PAC, the political action committee of the nations largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, previously released an online video in response to comments made by Patin in which she stated that she believes homosexuality is a choice. The video released by HRC PAC is narrated by Michael Cole, senior manager of HRC’s media center, who flew to Alaska with a video production crew to talk with Wasilla’s LGBT community. View the video at http:/ha~-,v.youtube.com/hrcmedia. www.metrostarnews.com ~I®t~~STAR 9 �Palin tries to walk center line on gays News analysis by Rex Woc¼aer Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin is strongly against same-sex marriage and has a history of speaking against gay rights, but in the current campaign she’s attempting to strike a middle ground. "I am not going tO judge Americans and tile decisions that they make in their adult personal relationships," she recently told CBS News. "t have one of my absolute best friends for the last 30 years who happens to be gay, and I love her dearly -- and she is not my ’gay friend,’ she is one of my best friends, who happens to have made a choice that isn’t a choice that I have made, but I’m not going to judge people." Rea Carey; lesbian, gay; bisexual and transgender rights leader, demands higher standard from national candidates WASHINGTON, DC (PR) __ Rea Carey, executive director of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund, responds to the vice presidential debate between Republican Gov. Sarah Palin and Democratic Sen. Joseph Biden.Statemerit by Rea Carey, Executive Director National Gay’and Lesbian ~ask Force Action Fund There also has been Internet chatter that no one can identify who Palin’s lifelong lesbian pal is. Patin likewise attempted to appear tolerant during the Oct. 2 vice presidential debate. But then she stated unequivocally: "I will tell Americans straight up that I don’t support defining marriage as anything but between one man and one woman, and I think through nuances we can go round and round about what that actually means. But I’m being as straight up ~vith Americans as I can in my nonsupport for anything but a traditional definition of marriage." Because Democratic candidates Barack Obama and Joe Biden also claim to oppose same-sex marriage, because Palin was trying to sound tolerant, and because debate host Gwen Ifill was anything but aggressive in her questioning, some debate viewers xvere lei~ with the impression that there is no difference between the two teams on issues of gay equality. Nothing could be further from the truth. Obama and Biden support giving same-sex couples all the rights of marriage -- everything but the word -- and oppose attempts to ban same-sex marriage in the states where it is legal. John McCain and Palin, on the other hand, support statewide bans on same-sex marriage, do not speak in support of civil unions, and, in the final analysis, seemingly would go only so far as letting gay people visit a sick partner in the hospital and allowing them to sign private contracts to attempt to protect their relationship legally. That’s a far cry from the Democratic position in favor of granting gay" couples all marriage rights under a different label. "Do I support granting same-sex benefits?" Biden asked during the debate with Palin. "Absolutely positive!): Look, in an Obama-Biden administration, there will be absolutely no distinction from a constitutional standpoint or a legal standpoint between a same-sex and a heterosexual couple." 10 ~÷t~°oST,~R or A Tragedy Waiting for an Ending By James Nimmo O~HOMA CITY, OK __ I attended the last of two debates between Corporation Commissioner Jim Roth and the GOP opponent Dana Murphy. Held at Oldahoma City University" in the School of Law Building there were about ! 50 people listening including GOP Rep, Sally Kern and her husband. I think if you’re reading this you know that Ms. Kern carried a loaded hand gun twice into the Oklahoma Capitol Building and that every waking moment of her life is devoted to thinking about how gay men and lesbians conduct their private lives and how she can break up the action. I think her husband, Rev. Steve Kern, chief minister at Olivet Baptist Church in Oklahoma City, is also devoted to the s,ame voyeurism consuming his wi~. I believe this because I ve attended in the early spring five services preached by Rev. Kern and he never failed to mention the clinical, pseudo-scientific word "homosexuality" in those sermons and the great evils spurting there from. He even said that men having sex with other men look like dogs. I swear I’m not making this up! Imagine saying this in front of 60- and 70-year old white hetem men and women steeped in the blood of their G-sus! Palin, however, was judged for that comment by gay activists, who took exception to her saying that being gay is a "choice." "If there~ any kind of suggestion at all from my answer that I would be anything but tolerant of adults in America choosing their partners, choosing relationships that they deem best for themselves -- you know, I am tolerant and I have a vmT diverse i]amily and group of friends and even within that group you would see some who may not agree with me on this issue, some very dear friends who don’t agree ~vith me on this issue," she said. "But in that tolerance also, no one would ever propose, not in a McCain-Paliri administration, to do anything to prohibit, say, visitations in a hospital or contracts being signed, negotiated bet~veen parties." ¯he Fruit Doesn’t Fall Far From the Tree ? At the conclusion of the debate I went up to Ms. Kern and reminded her that it’s also illegal to carry a gun onto a college campus. She replied that I was ~velcome to call a securityguard and have her purse searched. I declined the invitation saying I wanted to make sure she knew the law. Press release photo: Rea Care),, Executive Director National Gay and Lesbian Ta~-k Force Action Fund "I found myself reacting as ifI had heard fingernails on a chalkboard when Gov. Sarah Palin talked about her tolerance. I’m sorry, but tolerance with a smile does not equal support for our lives nor does it honor the validity of our relationships and families. Much of the country has moved well beyond the condescension and dismissiveness of’tolerance.’ We have higher expectations than patronizing statements of tolerance by anyone seeking to lead this nation. We also have higher expectations for those political leaders, such as Sen. Joseph Biden, who have been our allies on so many issues to finally, and unequivocally, stand up for our full equality. "I look fotward to a day xvhen the leadership of our country can set an example and dearly state that it is time for the rejection of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans to end. Too many elected officials have not even met the low bar of calling for complete legal equality for all Americans. "We live in difficult times. Families sit at their kitchen tables dealing with the challenges of our day, -- keeping their jobs, putting fuel in their tanks and food on the table, and obtaining good and affordable health care. Our families -- LGBT families -- are dealing with the exact same concerns, only without the legal protections that are so critical to our welfare. What I wanted to hear in the debate, and did not, is a belief that protections and opportunities, like marriage, should exist so that our families have the ability to both thrive and to contribute to society on equal footing with our straight friends and neighbors." Fearing that his Biblica! help-meet made from a rib ~vas losing the thread of the discussion, Rev. Kern asked me why I was so hung tip on Sally’s gun toting. I asked Rev: Kern why were he and Sa!ly~ so hung up on "homosexuality"? Is it because the fruit hasnt fallen far from the tree? Oh, but Rev. Kern said they’re only interested in morality and that I should attend their church and see what it’s like. I reminded him I’d been to their church five times and I had all the X-tian morality I could stomach. Let me tell you I was the unidentified man escorted from the Bethany City Hall two weeks ago when I stood up at a political forum and asked on behalf of public safety ifSally Kern was carrying her gun in a "no weapons" area such as the auditorium we were sitting in. Shouldn’t it bother you to know that there are people on the public payroll who have no intention of obeying the law when it applies to their idea that they are ABOVE earthly law and prefer the higher law of the Triune heavenly father-son-holy spirit? An interview with Jesse Kern, one of the sons of the heteroKerns, appeared in the Tulsa World ( http:,//tinyurl.com/ 39kpsq ) earlier this year when his mothers You Tube speech ( http:lltinyurl.comlyq91ak ) was burning on the internet like the purifying fires of hell. Jesse said he was not gay and had given his sexuality to his god. That’s funny. I didn’t know God needed a sex buddy. I’m no psychiatrist, I’m purely an observer but doesn’t something he-re smell a bit musty, like it’s been in the closet too long? Let me see: a grown man raised in a fervently fundie church doffs that background, ( http://tinyurl.com/66axyu ) joins a new-age kind of commune, and devotes his sex life to the god of his imagination. At the same time his parents are on a 24-7 rampage for morality, looking for semen stains between every sheet, and partner their politics to organizations associated with some unsavory characters. ( http:l/gossip-boy.comlKern_Campaign.html ) It seems to me that Sally Kern and her family are a tragedy waiting for an ending. November 2008 �Ten years. ousands victimized. Not action. provides referrals for assistance for housing, food and other medical issues. Thousands of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people have been victims of hate-motivated violence since Matthew Shepard’s death, and still there is no federal hate crimes law covering sexual orientation and gender identity Despite the change in location, many of their former clients from the N.W. 39th Street area have come to the new place, as well as others from that area. Although not as ideal as the other location, Mike Maus, a longtime counselor for Red Rock, states that it has worked out. He also feels that because he is well known as a openly gay man who is HIV positive, this helps clients feel comfortable and OK with seeking testing WASHINGTON, DC (PR) __ Sunday; Oct. 12, marked the 10-year anniversary of the brutal death of Matthew Shepard, and many states and the federal government have yet to enact hate crimes protections covering both sexual orientation and gender identity. This, despite the fact that thousands of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people have been the targets of hate-based violence in the decade since Shepard’s murder, according to statistics from the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP). Statement by Rea Carey, Executive Director National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund "Ten years ago, the shocking murder of Matthew Shepard sent a national clarion call for stronger federal la~vs to combat crimes motivated by hate. Since then, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people have continued to fall victim to hatestoked violence in shocking numbers. Despite this epidemic ofanti-LGBT violence, the federal government has refused to enact a hate crimes law covering sexual orientation and gender identity. This shameful failure of national xvill and resolve must end in 2009 with a new president and a new Congress. "Today, we remember mad mourn Matthew Shepard. We also remember other young people whose voices fell silent this past yeai: "We mourn Ashley Sweeney of Detroit, Mich., shot to death in February 2008; we mourn Lawrence King of Oxnard; Calif., shot to death in his middle-school classroom in February 2008; we mourn Simmie Williams Jr. ofFt~ Lauderdale, Fla., shot to death in February 2008; and we mourn Angle Zapata of Greeley, Colo., beaten to death with a fire extinguisher in July 2008. We remember and mourn all victims of hate violence, but especially these and other young gendernonconforming people, who died in the hope of freedom to live their lives as they wished." Assessment of progress during the past 10 years Currently, 31 states and D.C. have hate crimes laws that track or make illegal crimes motivated by sexual orientation mad/or gender identity and expression. However, by the time of Matthew Shepard’s death in 1998, 23 of these 31 states had already passed their laws. Since his death 10 years ago, only eight states have added hate crimes protections (Colorado, Hawaii, Maryland, Missouri, New Mexico, New York, Tennessee and Texas). In 19 states, there are no hate crime laws protecting anyone in the LGBT community. On the federal level, champions in both the House and Senate have continued to prioritize passage of legislation that would expand and sn-engthen federal hate crimes legislation. In the 110th Congress, both chambers with bipartisan majorities passed the Matthew Shepard Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act as a free-standing bill in the House and an amendment to the Department of Defense Authorization Act in the Senate. This is the first time both chambers have considered a bill that included both gender identity and sexual orientation. However, strategic and procedural problems prevented Congress from sending a bill to President George Bush, who promised to veto the bill if it did reach that point. Epidemic of anti-LGBT violence LGBT people are disproportionately affected by hate violence. Reports produced by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Photo provided by aJ~iend of the victim shows Universi{y of Wyoming gay college student Matthew Shepard who was beaten and Ie’.fifior dead in a W~ominy’.gpastute near Laramie, I~210.,~y on Oct. 7, 1998. In the 10 years since, more than 30 states havepassed laws addtessing bias-related crimes against gays, but gay,rights advocates point to a series offrustrations including thefailure of federal hate-crime legislation. (AP) Forc~ (i984=1993) and the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (1994-2007) have documented more than 35,000 anti-LGBT crimes over the last two decades. It is important to note that these statistics are based on reports from only a handful of local LGBT crime victim assistance agencies. Indusion of transgender people in hate crimes laws is especially important because violence against transgender people is widespread, largely underreported, and disproportionately greater than the number of transgender people in society. The total number of victims reporting anti-LGBTQ violence to NCAX¢~ in 2007 was 2,430, which represents a 24 percent increase over the total number of victims reported in 2006. ~-he Task Force has led the movement-wide effort to secure an effective and full governmental response to hate crimes against LGBT people, beginning with the launch of its groundbreaking anti-violence project in 1982. Task Force organizing, coalition building and lobbying resulted in the 1990 passage of the Hate Crimes Statistics Act, sponsored by U.S. Rep. John Conyers. Photo: Red Rock Counselor ~adike Maus by Victor Gorin As Mike puts it, ’~We are stil! testing as many people as we were before, and we will continue to have a presence in the gay community, keeping on with outreach programs, passing out condoms inthe barsl and educating When possible, particularly at special events such as Pride and World AIDS Day." "We are here to help people determine their HIV status, and develop a plan to deal with that status. Treatment is available for all people with HIV in the United States, regardless of xvhether you have a job, money or insurance. We want to get the word out that we’re here to help." Red Rock HIV testing 877-339 3330 Mike Maus--(405)425-0473 Red Rock Behavioral Health Services (405) 424 7711 Oklahoma STD Hotline 800 535 2437 Oklahoma City-County Health Department STD Clinic (405) 427-8651 Positively Living Support Group-Every Tuesday at Red Rock 5:30 p.m. for those infected or affected by HIV. Tuesday Night Supper Club---Social dinners at varied restaurants every other Tuesday for those likewise dealing with HIV. For more information Chuck Longacre (405) 425-0448. Ouotable Ouotes "But our country’s journey toward equality is not finished. It’s been five years since Lawrence v. Texas. It’s been 39 years since Stonewall. And we still have more work to do before we achieve equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender Americans. Election Day offers an opportunity to take another crucial step toward equality. Millions have joined this movement for change. People are hoping again -- believinggaain -- that we can come together to create, a stronger, fairer nation. And on November 4 we 1! have a chance to put that hope into action." Direct Cremation From $595 TION MORTUARY SERVICE,~ Traditional Funeral Services at Affordable Prices (405) 230- 1310 or !-800-913-1310 Pre-Need Plan CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED Michelle Obama 2415-C North Walnut Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma www.rnetrostarnews.com NetroSTAR 11 �@Club 209, Tulsa @Club Majestic, Tulsa By Greg Steele @ Angles, Oklahoma City @ Bamboo Lounge, Tulsa @ Finishline, Oklahoma City @ The Copa, Oklahoma City xk~/rith all the outing of gay penguins, sheep, dogs and other species, is there a possibility there are gay turkeys? How would you know if you were eating one of our own? I mean the poor critters are just herded into the slaughter pen, humanely killed, I presume, plucked and whisked off to Walmart. I for one wil! be asking the Walmart meat lady if my turkey was gay! I refuse to bake, fry, barbecue or boil a family member. We assume that all turkeys are hetero, and it’s OK to bake or fry ect., a homophobic hetero turkey, but what if your turkey was hetero and gay friendly? This outing of animals and now fowl is just not right. It raises so many questions and creates so many problems and it’s Thanksgiving for God’s sake. W~here are r~e Fowl Rights people when you need them! Have a Great Holiday! @ The Ledo, Oklahoma City 12 ~VI÷troSTAR @ The Lab Rescue, Tulsa November 2008 �Artists Cindy Swanson and Sharyl Landis e ibit at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center TULSA, OK (PR) The Dennis R. Neill Equality Center art gallery will host its monthly First Thursday meet-the-artist reception from 6-9pm, Thursday, November 6, 2008, for the opening of it’s new exhibit featuring artists Cindy Swanson and Sharyl Landis, Swanson will be displaying many of her mosaic works of art. Drawn to the art form by her attraction to the colored glass, Cindy has qtudie.dthe medium i~ Italy under the guidance of two master tlqosalsts. Landis will be featuring her mixed-media art at the show, which She describes as "fascinating and full of whimsy’!. Shawl loves using her hands to transform objects into unique designs through the blending of colors, shapes, and textures. Mosaic "Just Balother Day" ~Pnis monthly event is hosted by Oldahoman’s for Equality (OkEq). OkEq seel~ equal rights for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual &:Transgender (LGBT) individuals and families {lx~bugh advocac~ education, programs, alliances, and the Operation of the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. Since 1997, beading has been Sharyl’s primary form of expression, though in recent years she has expanded into hand dyed textiles and using beadwork as a 3-D addition to her paintings and textiles. urban living 13 TOWNHOMES 2 1 st @ BAain Street VIEW OF DOWNTOWN SKYLINE SOPHISTICATED DESIGN OPEN LIVING SPACES EXPANSIVE GLASS FRONTS ELEVATOR OPTIONAL PRIVATE OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES POOL OPTIONAL DESIGNER FINISHES AND FIXTURES SECURE GATED ENTRY ENERGY EFFICIENT UTICA SQUARE NEARBY GREEN AMENITIES AVAILABLE ELEVATOR OPTIONAL ADJACENT TO TULSA PARKS SPACIOUS COMMON DRIVE ROOFTOP PATIO GARDENS AVAILABLE MARTIN NEWMAN 9 I 8.582.4673 MLONEWMAN www.metrostarnews.com The exhibit will remain up through the month of November, and can be viewed Monday thru Saturday from 3-gpm. The Dennis R. Neill Equality Center is located at 621 E. 4th St., in downtown Tulsa. More info can be found on the web at okeq.org. ’PET FRIENDLY GATED GUEST PARKING ONE BLOCK FROM RIVER TRAILS SMART URBAN LIVING CONTEMPORARY STAINLESS APPLIANCES HEATHER MCGRAW 918.607.1 t77 H MCGRAW@MCGRAWOK. COM ~etroSTAR 13 �Wockner News Service Mitcham is sad he was Head of British army only out gay at Olympics addresses gay conference Larry K ng quizzes Ahmadinejad on gays in 1ran The head of Britain’s army, Gen. Richard Dannatt, chief of the general staff, made history by addressing a gay conference in London Oct. 9, The Sunday Telegraph reported. In remarks to the Fourth Joint Conference on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transsexual Matters, Dannatt said that respecting GLBT officers and soldiers is "a command responsibility" that is mandatory- to ensure "operational effectiveness." Gold-medal diver Matthew Mitcham told the Sydney Morning Herald on Oct. 8 that he is sad he was the only out gay man at the Beijing Olympics. "I was actually very surprised I was the only out male at the Olympic Games," he said. "It’s a little bit sad. I think, because statistically there should be a lot more but, you know what, it’s each to one’s own. I’m not going to pressure awbody else to come out of the closet because it’s their own choice. But I’m proud to be there, proud to be that one that lots of other people can look up to." Some 10,500 athletes took part in the games. Mitcham’s gold-medal dive received the highest score in Olympic diving history. kish trans laws need updating Ireland needs to fix its laws on transgender issues, the Irish Human Rights Commission said Oct. 1. Among other things, post-op transsexuals should be able to get a new birth certificate aa~d get married to someone of the opposite sex, the commission said. The group recommended the government move on the matter with urgency; pointing out that the current laws rtm afoul of decisions by the European Court of Human Rights. Norwegian church will not marry gays when law takes effect Norway will become the seventh nation to grant same-sex couples access to full marriage in January, but the dominant Church of Norway will not marry gays, the state church’s bishops said Oct. 8. Pastors will be permitted to offer prayers for gay couples who get married but may not bless them, the bishops said. Same-sex marriage also is allmved in Belgium, Canada, the Netherlands, South Africa, Spain and, in the U.S., California, Connecticut and Massachusetts. 14 ~et~oSTAR "We have made real progress in our understanding of equality and diversity in the military context, and there is a desire to achieve more yet," he said. "Respect for others is not an optional extra, it is a command responsibility and an essential part of leadership, teamwork and operational effectiveness." Britaiffs arrned forces lifted their gay ban in 2000 on orders from the European Court of Human Rights. U.S. TV inte,wiewer Lar~y King quizzed Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad on his nation’s treatment ofgays Sept. 23. Screen-capture photo Iraqi gay leader assassinated The Baghdad head of the international group Iraqi LGBT was assassinated in late Seprember, activists in London reported. Bashar, 27, was gunned down in a barbershop. "Militias burst in and sprayed his body with bullets at point-blank range," said leading British gay activist Peter Tatchell. "~e exact identity of the gunmen is unclear, but he was probably murdered by the Islamist death squads who are targeting lesbian and gay Iraqis for ’sexual cleansing.’" Bashar was the local coordinator of foreignfunded "safe houses" for gays and lesbians living in Iraq. "His efforts saved the lives of dozens of people," Tatchell said. "Bashar xvas a ldnd, generous and extremely brave young man -- a true hero who put his life on the line to save the lives of others." Dutch men on trial for deliberate HIV transmission Three men from Groningen, Netherlands, are on trial for ddiberately infecting at least 12 other men with HIV, several news agencies reported. Hans Jurgens, 39, Peter Mulder, 50, and Wim Deld~er, 49, allegedly advertised gay sex parties online, lured participants to their location, then drugged them, raped them and injected them with HIV-positive blood. Prosecutors want the trio to be jailed for between eight and 15 years. U.S. TV interviewer Larry King quizzed Iranian President Malamoud Ahmadinejad on his nation’s treatment of gays Sept. 23. q]aere have been persistent, though unconfirmed, reports for years that Iran hangs men for the crime of engaging in gay sex. King said: "People (are) protesting that they don’t have the same rights as other people. Homosexuals -- you said last yea,; you denied there were homosexuals (in Iran). There’s homosexuals everywhere." Ahmadinejad replied: "I said it’s not the way it is here (in the U.S.). In Iran this is considered a very -- obviously most people dislike it. And we have actually a law regarding it and the law is enforced. It is a law that was passed. It was legislated. And it is an act that is against human principles. A lot of things can happen. It can cause psychological problems, social problems that affect the whole society, Remember that God’s rules are to improve human life. In our religion, this act is forbidden and the Parliament has legislated about it. Not now, 70 years ago. This is something that happened 70 years ago, before the Islamic R~public became --" King interjected, "So what happens to gay people?" Ahmadinejad replied: "Well, of course, nobody has held protests. You are -- are you concerned for 70 million Iranian people or a few homosexuals? Let’s assume in Iran -- let’s assume in the United States that 200 million people drive cars and a million violators are rounded up and they just basically violate driving laws. Should we be worried for the 199 million people whose safety we must be concerned about or the one million violators? The law is the law and it’s law. And it must be enforced. Of course, we do pay attention that in Iran nobody interferes in the private lives of individuals. We have nothing to do with the private realm of people. ~ais is at the (level of) nor-private, public morality. In their own house, nobody ever interferes with people." Last year, during a speech at Columbia University in New York City, Ahmadinejad also was asked about the nation’s treatment of gay people. He responded: "We in Iran ... don’t have hamjensbaz (a derogatory term for homosexuals) like you have in your country. In our country; there is no such a thing. In Iran, such a thing does not -- in Iran, in Iran, absolutely such a thing does not exist as a phenomenon. I don’t know who told you otherwise." Iran is known to have executed several teens and men accused of engaging in sodomy, although in nearly all the cases that have been publicized in recent years the individuals were accused of other crimes as well, such as rape. The International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission has said it suspecrs that other charges often are tacked onto sodomy cases to prevent the public outrage that wood accompany executions carried out solely for the crime of consensual adult gay sex. The group also has said it believes executions solely for gay sex are taking place out of the public eye. "Our suspicions (are) that their current practice really is to rid society of lesbians and gay men," the organization said last year. Human Rights Watch, on the other hand, has said it cannot fully document any executions in Iran in recent years carried out solely for the crime of consensual adult gay sex. November 2008 �Re Roc Horror Show- Next in "Lyric at the Plaza" Series Performances are October 9th through November 1st: Thursdays at 7:30pm, Fridays at 8:00pm, Saturdays at 6:00pm & 10:00pm. However, t_he Friday, October 31 st performance and the late Saturday, November 1st performance will both begin at midnight instead of the times previously listed. For tickets: w~wc.lyrictheatreokc.com, (405) 524-9312, or in person at 1727 NW 16th St, Oklahoma City, OK. Celine Dion Nov 13, 2008 at BOK Center Lyric’s production of The Rocky Horror Show is sponsored by the Oklahoman, King’s Limo & Private Jet, the Copa, and Angles. Annual support is provided by Mlied Arts and the Oklahoma Arts Council. In Oklahoma City, the renovation and opening of Plaza ~eatre as an intimate live performance venfie has enabled Lyric to expand its programming to include even more entertainment options for adventuresome theatergoers. Get ready for a night of frolics and fun at The Rocky Horror Show! (rated R for strong language, sexually explicit scenes, and mature themes) Carrie Underwood Oct 29, 2008 at BOK Center With art: Frank ’iV’ Furter (Monte WheekO prepares to give Brad (Brad!o, Beah~) and Janet (Heather Hawkins) a wild n~ht to remembe~ (_Photo by ~ndy Mutz) O~HOMA CITY, OK (PR) __ Lyric ~eatre, Oklahoma’s premiere professiona! theatre company, concludes the 20072008 "Lyric at the Plaza" season with the big, bad, rock-n-roll musical, The Rocky Horror Show. From October 9th through November 1st, Lyric will present the live version of the spectacular cult classic film about the madcap adventures of Brad Majors and his fiancd Janet Weiss, who approach the spooky Frankenstein place to find help for a flat tire. In the house, though, they encounter the maniacal Dr. Frank ’N’ Furter, the rippling Rocky, the vivacious Magenta, and experience the boldest, naughtiest party of their lives. Lyri& production of Tne Rocky Horror Show will be directed and choreographed by Nick Demos and will be his final show at the helm of Lyric ~qeatre. The Rocky Horror Show was first created by writer/actor Richard O’Brien as a stage musical in 1973. The cinematic version starring Tim Curry and Susan Sarandon followed t~vo years later and went on to become one of the most famous and ardently followed cult films of all time. This popularity has kept the live musical in almost continuous production at theatres around the ~vorld ever since. Oklahoma audiences are encouraged to get into the intended spirit of the show by dressing up and participating in all of the talk-back and extracurricular activities that make Rocky Horror such a wild theatrical experience. Audience participation packages will be available for purchase at the theatre. Like all Lyric productions, The Rocky Horror Show features a blend of talent both from New York and from Oklahoma. Monte ~qaeeler (Off-Broadway: The IT Girl, Streakiri!) stars as Frank ’N’ Furter, Bradley Beahen (assistant director- Enter Laughing, the Musical) performs as Brad, and Oklahoma native Heather Hawkins (Broadway: Avenue Q) gets down and dirty as Janet. The role of Rocky himself is played by Nick Adams, best known for performing opposite Mario Lopez in the Broadway revival of A Chorus Line. Local talent letting loose for Rocky Horror indudes Renee Anderson as Magenta, Brian Hamilton as Rift Raft, Stephen Hilton as the Narrator, and Michael Todd as Eddie/Dr. Scott. They and a whole host of actors playing Phantoms and Transylvanians will lead the raunchy celebration that includes timeless numbers including "S~veet Transvestite", "Touch-A, Touch-A, Touch Me", and the rousing "Time Warp." Tickets for The Rocky Horror Show are $40. Senior discounts (ages 65+), Group discounts (10+), and College Student discounts (week of show with ID) are also available. ~#ww.metrostarnews.com Tickets On Sale Now! Time: 8:00pm Doors: 7:00pm Ticket Prices: $167.00, $127.00, $77.00. $49.50 BUY EXCLUSIX.~ GOLD HOT SEATS Tulsa is one of 45 cites and the only city in Oldahoma on this tour. Throughout her career, Celine has been honored with over 1000 Awards, including Grammys, Oscars, Golden Globes, World Music, Juno and Felix Awards. She is the biggest-selling female artist of all time. Celtic Thunder Nov 19, 2008 at BOK Center Show time: 8:00pm Ticket Prices: $37.50, $47.50, $57.50, additional surcharges may apply CELTIC THUNDER, a brand-new show created and produced by Sharon Browne, will make its debut in the U.S. with a public television special airing on local stations nationwide in March 2008. Carrie Underwood’s Carnival Ride Tour October 29th, 2008 7:30 pm Prices: $55, $45, $35 Tickets on sale Friday, Sept 12 @ 10am Checotah, Okla. native and two-time Academy of Country Music Top Female Vocalist, Carrie Underwood, is scheduled to stop at the BOK Center on October 29, 2008, for a live performance from her Carnival Ride Tour. With a recordbreaking start to her career, Carrie Underwood has been ,,the top-sellin, g artist,, to come from Fox’s hit television, show, American Idol, and has taken the country mus,c world by storm. Eagles Nov 11, 2008 at BOK Center By popular demand the Eagles will return for a second show!!!! Ticket prices: $187, $87, and $52 The Eagles coming back to play a second date at the BOK Center is a huge accomplishment for the city and attests to the level of excitement and enthusiasm for both the band and the new BOK Center. We need to show the band a gratitude of thanks for ~eturning for a second date in the form of another sell-out said John Bolton, General Manager. Due to overwhelming d,,e,mand, the Eagles have a,dded a second Tulsa date to their Long Road Out of Eden world tour. The Eagles will perform live on Tuesda); November 1 lth at the BOK Center and the band - Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Joe ~Valsh and Timothy B. Schmit - will be perfo,r,ming curre,,nt !~its from Long Road ,,Out of Eden including How Long and Busy Being Fabulous as well as their classic songs. The Eagles have sold more than 120 million albums worldwide, earning five #1 U.S. singles and four Grammy Awards. Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975 is the best-selling albu,,m of all time, exceeding sales of 29 million units. The bands Hotel California and Tneir Greatest Hits Volume 2 have sold more than 16 and 1 ! million albums respectively. The Eagles were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1998. Filmed in Dublin the special features five male vocalists (ranging from !4 to 40 - Damian McGinty, Keith Harkin, Ryan Kelly, Paul Byrom, and George Donaldson) perfor,,m, ing an eclectic mix of songs, ranging from the traditional Mountains ofMourne" and "Come By the Hills" to international hits such as "Brothers in Arms" and "Desperado," as well as original compositions by CELTIC THUNDER’s legendary musical director and composer Phil Coulter. November At ~lhe P.A.C Tulsa Nov 1, Janis Ian John H. Williams Theatre Nov 5, FREE Brown Bag It: Rossitza Jekova-Goza, violin tCathleen Westby Pavilion Nov 6-23 FREE Pictures From Lookout Mountain PAC Gallery Nov 7-9, 13-15 Master Class Liddy Doenges Theatre Nov 7, Liz Carrol John H. Williams Theatre Nov 8, Missa Solennelle and Stabat Mater Chapman Music Hall Nov 12, Forces of Nature Dance Theatre John H. Williams Theatre Nov 12, FREE Brown Bag It: Randy xY~imer, guitar Kathleen Xgestby Pavilion Nov 13, Ivory and Gold Trio John H. Williams Theatre Nov 15, Tt~e Magical Music of Disney Chapman Music Hall Nov 15, Essence of India: Bharata Natyam John H. Williams Theatre Nov 18, Akoka (Messiaen I~ASMIX): David Krakauer, Matt Haimovitz and Friends John H. Williams Theatre Nov 18-23, Available by Subscription The Rat Pack Chapman Music Hall Nov 19, Krakauer/Haimovitz Cabaret Charles E. Norman Theatre Nov 19, FREE Brown Bag It: Anam Cronan, Celtic flute and harp Kathleen Westby Pavilion Nov 20-23, Moonlight and Magnolias Liddy Doenges Theatre Nov 21-22, Not Currently On Sale (TU Forensics) Charles E. Norman ~eatre Nov 23, American Chamber Players John H. Williams Theatre ~÷troSTAR 15 �Chardonnay The Chardonnay grape variely is a classic white wine grape grown all over the world. The original fame of Chardonnay comes fi’oru its success in the region of Frande. \Vhite Burgundy must be made from the Chardonnay grape unless the label indicates it was made from a much less well ka~own grape, Aligot& The Burgundy region, located in the central part of eastern France, is the home of some of the finest Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines in the world. The Chablis area is a sub region of Burgundy that makes wonderful Chardonnay based wines from a chalkT soil. ~l]~e wines ftom the vineyard ’Le Montrachet’ and from the adjoining vineyards of Chassagne Montrachet and Puligny Montrachet are prized around the world for their fine quality. he winter holidays are on their way. And though I may talk more about the following types of wines in my next few columns, we felt they needed an introduction for this season of sharing food & wine with family & fi’iends. We’re covering Chardonnay, which is the most popular ~vhite wine and pairs well with chicken, vegetable dishes &: turkey breasts. Pinot Noii; whichpairs well with hams, breaded stuNng & dark meat turkey. Sparkling ,,vine/Cava, which pairs well with raw ftuits & nuts. Port which pairs well with Chocolate cakes, sweet potato pies & pumpkin cheesecakes. ~he following is a brief description of the grapes and wines priced around $15. ~ Chardonnay takes oak well, and many higher priced versions of this grape are tTpically fermented and/or aged in oak barrels. When Chardonnay is aged in oak barrels, it may pick up vanilla overtones in its aromas and flavor. Chardonnay also ages well in the bottle, though it will not age as long as many red wines. It likes slightly cooler climates (warm days/cool nights) and develops less aciditT than Sauvignon Blanc. Some producers put their Chardonnay (or some of it) through malolactic fermentation which reduces crispness and brings out a rich, buttery taste. This usually shortens the life of the wine as far as aging is concerned. wineries throughout the world including h:aly, New Zealand Spain, South Africa, Ausn-alia, Chile and Argentina. In the U S, \Vashington State and California’s Russian River and Carneros areas~produce some of the best domestic versions of this wine. Pinot Noir Pinot noir grapes are grown around the world, mostly in the cooler regions, but grape is chiefl? region of France. It is widely to produce some of the fines~ ~vorld. Pinot noir has pellation famous Pinot Noir produces age veiT wel! in good flavors as they age, often 20 years after the vintage. problem starts with duce a and shape emerge ness, ted in s " includin ~: cherry; plum, strawberry. Complex flavors revealing chocolate, earthitrut~es. Only Pinot Noir, td Meunier grapes are permitwines from the Champagne ~urgundy~ Cava can Wonderful Pinot Noirs come the world. It’s grown in many is known by’ different names in different countries: Some locations and names Algeria; Argentina, Australia, Austria Blauburgunder or Spatburgunder), Brazil, Canada, Czechoslovakia, England, France, Germany (Sp~tburgunder), Greece, Hun Italy (P!not Nero or Blauburgunder), New Zealand, Switzerland (Clevner, labeled "D01e" when blended with Gamay Noir), U~{i{dd States, and Yugoslavia (Burgundac). Pinot is a diNcult grape to work with It’s >~ ......... hard to get a consistent, great P~not and {he ~’: used in Spain for sparlding using the same method in France’s Champagne disfamous region fi)r spar;. While a good Cava will rarely be with top Champagne, it wii! still be quite pleasant. Additionally, Cava is inexpensive enough to be an evmTday drink between special occasion splurges on Champagne. Cava is the name of a type of white or pink sparlding wine, produced mainly in the Pened~s region in Catalonia, Spain, 40 kin to the south west of Barcelona. Its name is . ......... Continued see 3~NE page-20 :..... Chardonnay is planted at hundreds of Withr This months recipe courtesy of: Rent, Nevada 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1/2 teaspoon oregano 2l’alapefi° peppers, chopped (or more ro suit your taste) 2 tablespoons white vinegar 1 medium onion, findy chopped 2 tablespoons fi’esh cil£ntro, Chopped 1 clash %b~co sauce lettuce leaf (to line serving bowls) avocado {optional) black olives, sliced (for garnish) (optional’, Directions: P~CIPE: MEXICAN CEVICHE ~ Ib batibut fillet or sea bass fillet or red snapper fillet ~ or use a mixture of fish and ~hrimp) %6 limes (Enough Juice to cover fish) ~ cup diced fresh t6mato ! green pepper, sweer, chopped 4 tablespoons chopped parsley or chopped cilantro l/4 teaspoon salt Dice the fish tapproximately 1A inch, dice ifusing shrimp. Marinate fish in dae lime juice in the fridge overnight (this step cooks the fish). Pour of~most of the lime iuice. Add remaining ingredients except lettuce, avocado and olive. [!oss xvell and arrange in individual serving bowls that are lined with lettuce leaves. Then garnish with sliced avocMo and sliced black olives. h6ine November 2008 �More gay- characters on TV this year ..Woclmer News Service Tile number of GLBT characters on broadcast-TV networks’ scripted series has more than doubled in the new season compared with last year, says the Gay & Lesbian Mliance Against Defamation. GLBT representations account for 2.6 percent of all scripted series regular characters in the 2008-2009 broadcast television schedule, up from 1.4 percent in 2005, 1.3 percent in 2006 and 1.1 percent in 2007, GLAAD said Sept. 23. Shawn PyJ~om plays openly gay Andrew l~n De Kam]) on the ABC series Despwate Mi,’hael Urieplays openly gay Marc St. flames on t,Se ABC s~’ies Ugly Housewives. GlAAD phow Bert); HRC photo The study looked at 88 scripted comedies and dramas airing in the new season on ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and Tile CW. It found 16 GLBT characters, compared ,vith seven last season. "This dramatic increase shows how far many networks have come in deve!oping ~omplex, multilayered lesbian, gay; bisexua! a~d tran~gender characters," said GLAAD President Nell G: Giuliano. ABC is offering seven such characters this year, Fox has five, NBC has three, The CW has one, and CBS has none. The nunaber of non-contract, recurring GLBT characters also has risen this year -- from 13 to t9. "Ti~egrowing number of recurring characters is another example of the networks’ progress towards being more inclusive," Giuliano said: "As the networks gradually add characters from all backgrounds and walks of life-to primetime programming, more and more Americans are seeing their LGBT friends and neighbors reflected on tile smal! screen." On mainstreara cable networks, the number GLBT series regular characters h~s dropped to 32 from last year’s high of 40. ~ae gay networks here! and Logo have 39 series regular GLBT characters this year. For fut! details, visit http://~wcw.glaad.orgleyelontv/20081. OKC Civic Center Music Hall November Events Oct. 17 - Nov. 8 DOUBT, A PARABLE a drama by John Partick Shanley Oct. 17 - Nov. 9 The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, adapted by Harvey Mackie Oct. 31 - Nov. 1 HITCHCOCK AT THE MOVIES presented by the Oklahoma City Philaharmonic Nov. 2 UNDERTHE BIG TOP: SYMPHONY AT THE CIRCUS presented by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic Nov. 8 CARMINA BURANA presented by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic Nov. 9 Terry Fator - LI’V~ Nov. 11 - Nov. 16 THE RAT PACK-Live at tile Sands! Nov. 23 OLIVERI presented by Broadway Tonight Nov. 28 - Dec. 21 ROMEO &JULIET Nov. 28 - Dec. 20 A NICE FAMILY GATHERING a comedy by Phil Olson www.metrostarnews.com ~etroSTAR 17 �More gay characters on TV this y-ear ..Wockner News Service The number of GLBT characters on broadcast-TV networks’ scripted series has more than doubled in the new season compared with last yeal; says the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation. GLBT representations account for 2.6 percent of all scripted series regular characters in the 2008-2009 broadcast television schedule, tip from 1.4 percent in 2005, 1.3 percent in 2006 and !. 1 percent in 2007, GLAAD said Sept. 23. ldm De I&mp on the ABC series Des~am &: flames on the ABC series Ug& Housewives. GLAAD photo Bet~. HRC photo The study looked at 88 scripted comedies and dramas airing in the new season on ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and The CW. It found !6 GLBT characters, compared with seven last season. "This dramatic increase shows how far many networks have come in developing complex, multi!ayered lesbian, gay, " GLAAD President " characters, ’ sa~d bisexual and transgender .... Nell G: Giuliano. ABC is offering seven such characters this year, Fox has five, NBC has three, ~ae CW has one, and CBS has none. The number of non,contract, recurring GLBT characters also ha~ risen this year -- from 13 to 19. "Thegro~ving number of recurring characters is another exanapie of the networks’ progress towards being more inclusive," Giuliano said. "As the network~s gradually add characters from all backgrounds and walks of life-to primetime programming, more and more Americans are seeing their LGBT friends and neighbors reflected on the small screen." On mainstream cable networks, the number GLBT series regular characters has dropped to 32 from last year’s high of 40. ~ae gay net-works here! and Logo have 39 series regular GLBT characters this year. For ful! details, visit http://w~v.glaad.org/eye/ontv/2008/. OKC Civic Cen er Music Hail November Events Oct. 17 - Nov. 8 DOUBT, A PARABLE a drama by John Partick Shanley Oct. 17 - Nov. 9 The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, adapted by Harvey Maclde Oct. 31 - Nov. 1 HITCHCOCK AT THE MOVIES presented by the Oldahoma City Philaharmonic Nov. 2 UNDERTHE BIG TOP: SYMPHONY AT THE CIRCUS presented by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic Nov. 8 CARMINA BURMNA presented by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic Nov. 9 Terry Fator - LIVE Nov. 11 - Nov. 16 THE RAT PACK-Live at the Sands! Nov. 23 OLI’\@Pd presented by Broadway Tonight Nov; 28 - Dec. 21 ROMEO &JULIET Nov. 28 - Dec. 20 A NICE FAMILY GATHERING a comedy by Phil Olson w"etw.metrostarnews.com ~÷troSTAR 17 �by Donald Pile and Ray Williams RENO, NEVADA Biggest Little City in the /brld" Photo: Downtown Reno Nevada First off, we have to say that in all of our travels, Reno is one of the friendliest places we have been. We stayed for four nights and met dozens of gay men and lesbians. Reno is like I.as Vegas was 20 or 30 years ago, a small, friendly town that is extremely easy to navigate. During the week there are not a lot of people there, and most things are within walking distance. Sometimes they do have "special" weekends, so if you are not into major crowds then go during the week. They day we left they were having a motorcycle convention with several thousands coming in so we were glad be on our way out oftown. Being a tourist town, everyone is extremely friendly and hdpful. Tne downtown area is very safe and well lit but of course one always has to be on guard at all times. Thl-here are no gay accommodations in Reno, but the Sands Regency Casino Hotel, which is located right downtown, welcomes everybody, qlle hotel hosts several gay events, and they have great rates. We were there in the middle of the week and got a mini-suite for just $39, which is unbelievably inexpensive. It also has the largest outdoor swimming pool in Reno. Several other gay men were staying at the hotel, and we all partied pool side. They have several nice restaurants and snack shops. The hotel often has lastminute room specials on its Web site, voww. sandsregency.com. Actually, wherever you are traveling, it is a great idea to check out the hotel/motel website as they do often have special, last minute rates. Six gay bars are listed in Reno. Tne downtown bar is a complete dump and dirty, and we do mean a "dump and dirty"! %vo on the east side of town are not open when their hours say they are, and the one on the west 18 side of town opens and closes when it wants to, so omit those four bars from your list. Isn’t it amazing that some gay bars don’t seem to have the common business acumen to be open when they post their business hours right on their front door? One bar was to open at 2 PM and we and the beer delivery man were waiting for it to open. Nae delivery man said that it was always late opening by an hour or two. We liked Carl’s Pub, 3310 S. Virginia St., which is about 30 blocks south of downtown. It is an extremely friendly bar. Everyone ~omes up and introduces themselves and makes you .feel very welcome. They are always having "special theme nights" and something is always happening. The other bar in Reno is the Patio Bar. It is clean, and the bartenders and patrons are friendly. We (as well as a few other patrons) had some issues with drink prices as the bartenders charged different patrons different prices for the same drinks. We confronted the bartenders and owners about this problem and they didfft want to talk about it. Apparently they charge locals one price and travelers another higher price, so we left and didn’t return. For those wanting a bathhouse, Steve’s Baths, 1030 x~ Second St., is open 24 hours a day. All the casino/hotels have great food specials all day long. Inexpensive breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets can be found at most all of the casinos. Luckily we found one of the finest Mexican restaurants in the country. Beto’s, a family-owned restaurant which is right across the street from the Patio Bar, and they make the finest homemade meals from scratch. Do not miss dining there. It is very inexpensive, and the food is outstanding. There are so many things t0 do and see in Reno. You really should stay right downtown so you can walk the strip and see all the sights and sounds. Reno has a lot of art galleries and museums. The Fleischmann Planetarium and the Nevada Historical Society Museum are dose to one another at 16th Street and North Virginia Street. The National Automobile Museum is at 10 S. Lake St., and the Nevada Museum of Art is at 160 W. Liberty St. One day, hop in your auto and take a driving trip down to Carson City, the state capital which is just a 35-minute drive to the south, and it makes a great short day visit. It is a very old city, and the architecture is remarkable. Actually, you could spend the entire day there. Places of interest include the Capitol building and other government buildings. Virginia Cit); in the mountains, is a must on your return trip to Reno. It was an old mining town, and you can take tours visiting mines, schoolhouses and homes from the late 1800’S. It is located right in the mountains. Be sure and take your camera. Lake Tahoe is a short drive from Reno and is a "must see and do" thing to do when visiting Ren6. Lake Tahoe is best knmvn for its beautiful blue and clear water (99% pure) ,and is surrounded by mountains which rise more than 4,000 feet above the shore. The lake is 22 miles long, 12 miles wide; about one-third lies in Nevada, the rest in California. The water drains from Lake Tahoe through the Truckee River which is one of a few rivers that run inland to the desert rather than towards the ocean. Pyranaid Lake, the remnant of ancient oceans which used to cover Nevada’s desert is the final destination of the Truckee River. Lake Tahoe is the third deepest lake in North America as it has all average depth of 989 feet but the deepest point is about 1,645 feet. The surface ~vater (12 feet) can warm to 68 F in summer, allowing swimming, while depths below 700 feet remain a constant 39 E Perhaps this is why Lake Tahoe is comfortable through the summer despite its proximity to the desert. Annual snowfall averages 40 feet, with snow pack averaging 20 feet which explains why downhill and cross-country skiing are very popular in the winter. Summer activities include hiking, white water rafting, beach picnics and other water activities. There are many ski and summer resorts as well as state park locations to choose from. Hevation at the lake is 6,229 feet Tney, of course, have gaming everywhere, even in the small towns and villages in Nevada. By the way, we just love how they have changed the name from gambling to gaming. Guess they want u~to forget that we are losing our money and think instead that we are participating in a game, to make it more fun! Uuless your winning money then LOSING money is Not fun! Between the inexpensive hotels, food and entertainment, Reno is a very good choice for a wonderful traveling experience. Before going to Reno, check out renodean.com for a complete listing of things to see and do there for the gay traveler. Dean is a ~vonderfu! guy, and he is more than glad to help you with suggestions. Another good website to check out is http:/lwww.visitrenotahoe.com/. You can have them send you a free booklet with a listing of everything to see and do there. Always remember to have fun when traveling, meet new people and talk to everyone! EUR£KA SPRINGS Fall Diversity Weekend 10/31 - 11/02 2008 EVENTS SCHEDULE: FRIDAY 10/31/08 Eureka Springs Limousine will provide rides for the weekend with wristbandfor $20. Mixer at Marquee’s at 7 - 9 PM. Karaoke with Tiny and Lady A with Costume Contest at Henri’s 9 PM. Ashley McBryde at Jack’s Place 9 PM. Costume Contest at Tiki Torch 9 PM. Costume Contest at Eureka Live 9 PM. Diversity Band at Chelsea’s 9 PM. Miranda Ray at the Lumberyard 10 PM. After Hours Breakfast at Harp’s 57. 11 PM -3AM SATURDAY 11/01/08 "Name that Tune" with Sandy at Smokehouse Cafe 8 - 11:30 AM. Diversity Bikers "Show N’ Shine" and "Hall N’ Back" Poker Run, Halloween Theme. Planner’s Hill Parking Lot 10 AM. Walking Tour starting at Basin Park. 10 AM. PDA (Public Display of A_ffection) Basin Park 12 Noon. Matinee’ Diversity Drag Show with Caribou Barbie at Tiki Torch 2 PM with encore at 10 PM. Rocky Horror Picture Show Part/at the Gem (Basement of the Aud). Doors open at 6:30 PM. Karaoke with Tiny and Lady A at Henri’s 9 PM. Ashley McBryde at Jack’s Place 9 PM. Kiss Tribute Band (Male Illusionist) at the Lumberyard 7 PM. Drag Show with Alexis LaRue at the Lumberyard 8 PM. Miranda Ray and the Backwoods Divas at Eureka Live 10 PM. After Hours Breakfast at New Delhi Deli from 9 PM to 3 AM. After Hours Breakfast at Harp’s 57. 11 PM -3AM For more informations visit Diversity Pride Events www.diversitypride.cora or www. eurekapride.com November 2008 ��derived from the Catalan word for cellar. There are a small number of areas in Spain outside Catalonia that also produce Cava. Cava is produced in varying levels of dryness of the wine which are: brut nature, brut (extra dry), seco (dry), semiseco (medium) and dulce (sweet). Under Spanish Denominaci6n de Origen laws, Cava can be produced in six wine regions and must be made according to the Traditional Method with second fermentation in the bottle and uses a selection of the grapes macabeo, parellada, xarelolo, Chardonnay, Pinot noir, and Subirat. Port Tawny ports are wines made from red grapes that are aged in wooden barrels, exposing them to gradual oxidation and evaporation. As a restflt, they gradually mellow to a golden-brown color. The exposure to wood imparts "nutty" flavors to the wine, which is blended to match the house style. Ta.wn~ ports are sweet or medium dry and typicany drunk as a dessert wine. When a Port is described as Tawny, without an indication of age, it is a basic blend of wood aged port that has spent at least seven years in barrels. Above this is Tawny with an indication of age which represents a blend of sev,e, ral vintages, with the averse years "in wood stated on the label. TiLe omcial categories are 10, 20, 30 and over 40 years. For each category, the average age of the various vintage is at least that of the given category. It is also possible to produce an aged white t~ort in the manner of a tawny, with a number of shippers now marketing 10 year old White Ports. And as always, I say go to your favorite wine shop, ask questions and purchase a bottle or two. Share some food & wine with friends and check this out for yourself. qSis writer also bar tends a~d hosts wine & food events known in town as the E-Mail- KylesBnB@aol.com bitter glrl �by Jack Fertig November 2008 "Keep it p~atonic, Aquarius!" Venus is in Sagittarius, wanting to play, but she’s triggering an opposition between Saturn and Uranus. Harness that wild, fun energy to balance responsibility and inspiration. ARIES (March 20 -Apri~ 19): Let your eye and ear wander to new artistic perspectives. Challenge yourself to appreciate things you’d normally avoid. The stimulation will help you to understand your place in the world better, to mend old friendships and make new ones. TAURUS (April 20 -May 20): Too much self-criticism is blocking the creative edge you need to realize your goals. Sexual adventure - yes, something entirely new! - will help you over that hump. The stars suggest exploring domination fantasies. If you have a better idea, follow your own dreams. GEMIN! (May 21 - June 20): Your political skills and foresight are especially sharp now. Look at any conflict, not as a logical argument, but as a dramatic scene to be resolved. The best answers will c0me way0~ of left field. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 20): Being playful, charming, outspoken, and fun certainly has its place, but it also makes you the target of annoyed persons at home and at work. That offers a creative challenge to focus and grow; but find a place to have your fun, too! CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19): Don’t get caught up in debates. Just listen to new ideas and arguments against them. If they contradict deeply held beliefs, accept the challenge quietly, and see where you have room to grow. Allow yourself an impulse buy for your home. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): A friend who wants "benefits" risks spoiling a good thing. Keep it platonic. Discuss the possibilities so your pal can realize what a disaster it would be in the long run. In the end, it should be good for a laugh. PISCES (February 19 - March 19): Too much fun at work can make your partner feel neglected. What really counts in your career? What satisfactions does it offer that you don’t find in love? Reevaluate your priorities, and be frank with your baby about them. GANGER (June 21 = July 22): New approaches at work are worth trying, if only experimentally. Whether they work or not, your adaptability and thoughtful acceptance of criticism is what really counts. Bite your tongue and challenge your brain: Ambitious rivals may prove more helpful than well-meaning friends. LEO (July 23 o August 22): Your naturally playful eroticism can get a little out of hand, leading to rude surprises. Have a very deep heart-to-heart with your partner about sex, but also about whatever philosophical or religious differences you may have. VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Take your partner Or roommate windowshopping for some exotic house decor. No need to buy; just browsing will help clarify domestic problems. A new approach to housework is also helpful, and remaining problems might be best resolved in the bedroom. LIB~ (September 23 - October 22): Life is stressful lately. Find a good friend and let it all out, even if it seems like a long, rambling, nonsensical torrent. That’s what good friends are for. Playful competition in some intellectually stimulating game also offers a sense of balance. SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): Any efforts to deal with finances now can cause more frustration than they would alleviate. Find cheap ways to enjoy the company of your friends. Spiritual lessons from childhood will help you deal with competition at work. www.metrostarnews.com METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES Rev Steve T. Urie Spidt0fChdst MCC 2902 E 20~ S~eet J0plin, M0~04 417-52~8480 W0mhip Saturdays at 10:00AM C0mmuni#! Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM MCC 0fthe Living Spring 17 Elk S~t Eureka Slxings, AR 72632 47~253-9337 W0~hip Sundays at 6:00 PM Have a GOd filled and BleSSed Day! ~÷troSTAR 21 �K~NG 0~ MASSAGE Great T0uch Man to Man Fult Bo~{y Massage 2 hands or 4 hands available out calls 5) Now Hiring Male & Female Keller Williams Realty Chuck Breckenridge Whether buying or selling I’ll work hard for you. NW Arkansas GLBT Community- Center "Linldng Together as One" (2437} For more information: Oklahoma’s HIV!STD Hotiine PROTECT YOURSELF PROTECT YOUR 888-391-9222 WWW.NWAGLBTCC.ORG Community for People ~iving IN MEMORIAM A 50I c (3) Non Peofit Organization Our House, Too Tulsa a~ {9!8) 812.7~ MATTHEW ARON VH-IITE offers a variety of activities for people who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves. We invite anyone who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-nlail ou rhousetoo9865@ sbcglobal.net [] Matthew passed from dais life at the OU Medical Center at 5:30 a.m. September 12 after losing a battle with cancer. He was known to his many fi’iends as a happy caring person, truly shown by his many years workingas a nurse her~ in Oklahoma where his good nature touched countless lives. Born March 10, 1966 in Grenta, Virginia, he left home at age t6 as his family could not accept him as agay man, and he traveled the kountry before settling in Oklahoma, working as a jack of all trades. His funeral service was held at Epworth United Methodist Church October 20. He leaves behind a legacy of many fi’iends. ~ WWW.METROSTARNEWS.COM 22 November 2008 �Support those who support us. Their ads allow us to distribute your community news FREE to you. OUR HOUSE, TOO ~=l=] HABANA INN 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma Cit); OK 405-528-2221 wv~,v.habanainn.com KELLY KIRBY, CPA 4815 S. HARVARD, SUITE 424 Tulsa, OK * 918-747-5466 Certified Public Accountant OKC MORTUARY 2415-C N. WALNUT AVE. Oklahoma City, OK 800-913-1310 ANGLES 2117 NV¢" 39th St. Oklahoma City, OK ;m~w.anglesclub.com BAMBOO LOUNGE 7204 E. PINE Tulsa, OK 918-836-8700 v~ww.bambooloungetulsa.com CLUB 209 209 N. BOULDER Tulsa, OK 918-584-9944 CLUB MAJESTIC 124 N. BOSTON Tulsa, OK 918-584-9494 w~v.clubmajestictulsa.com FINISHLINE 2200 ~-~W 39TH EXPI~SSWAY Oldahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE COPA 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oldahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 wvw.habanainn.com THE LEDO 2200 ~,PvV 39TH EXPRESS\VAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 ww~v.habanainn.com Tulsa, OK 74127 ~ KING OF MASSAGE In or Out Calls Oklahoma City, OK 405-314-3898 JUDY G. PHOTO’S Tulsa, OK judygphotos@sbcglobal.net 918-743-8636 CENTURY 21 GOLD CASTLE 3627 NV$ EXPRESS\rAY Oldahoma City, OK 73112 405-840-2106 www.c2 lgoldcasde.com CHUCK BRECKENRIDGE Keller Williams Realty Tulsa, OK 918-706-1887 GAY BRADY HEIGHTS-Tulsa New and Historic Homes for Sale and Rent For Info: www.gaybradyheightstulsa.com 21 EAST TOWNHOMES 21ST & MAIN Tulsa, OK 918-582-4673 or 918-607-1177 www.21East.us GUSHER’S RESTAURANT 2200 NV¢- 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 Located inside Habana Inn TOM & JERRYS 1501 N.W. 23RD Oklahoma City, OK 405-524-9100 $ B~ HOPE TESTING CLINIC 3540 E. 31st Tulsa, OK 800-535-2437 Oklahoma’s HIV/STD Hotline SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC 2902 E. 20TH STREET, Joplin, MO * 479-529-8480 Service Saturday 9:30 AM MCC of the LIVING SPRING 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays 6pro MCC UNITED 1623 N. Maplewood, Tulsa, OK 918-838-1715 v~wamcctulsa.org OPENAI~MS YOUTH PROJECT 2015 -B S. L~ewood Tulsa, OK 74112 918-838-7104 www. openarmsproject.org www.metrostarnews.com RA A AR SIS A T YN ~y LE U T E NN OS B ~ ¢ AT ¢O N Y N ODOI FE OD H A A F LE DE N i ¢ R A D O T L O B L ~G TR R ANID ~ L DA Y$ E RH NetroSTAR 23 �We believe tha~ hornosexua~i~ is no~ a g÷netic trait but a chosen ~ifes~y~e. We oppose the portraya~ of hornosexua~ or promiscuous behavior ~n a positive ~igh~ ~n We oppose ~he erosion of our military read~ness ~h~o~gh openly practicing homosexuals serving ~n ~he m~ary "We support the ful~ inclusion of a~l families, including same-sex coupbs, in ~he ~ife of our nation,and support equa~ responsibility, benefits, and protections. We wi~ enact a comprehensive bipartisan employment non-discrimination act. We oppose the Defense of Marriage Ac~ and a~! a~ernpts to use ~his issue to divide (Page 52, 2008 DNC P~afforrn) We oppose ~he ~romo~on o~ homosex~a~, ~h~ e~m~na~on o~ ~aws aga~ns~ sodomy, ~nd ~he granting o~ m~nor~y pro~ec~on or ~pec~a~ s~a~s ~o any person based upon sex~a~ preference or ~es~e choice. + +.oksPonewal+.org Taken from current platforms of the Republican and Democratic parties of Oklahoma. � Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data magazine Text Any textual data included in the document WWW.METROSTARNEWS.COM "WE DELIVER DIVERSITY" By Metro Star Staff U.S. Senator Barack Obama State SenatorAndrew Rice Corp. Commissionerfim Roth Ron Marlett Chad Hawkins "A_merica, this is our moment. This is our time. Our time to turn the page of the policies of the past." Blade on Sept. 10. "Michelte and I have been blessed with many openly gay and lesbian friends and cotleagues whom we have been close to for many years," the Democratic presidential candidate said. "xghile that fact has made the issues facing the .....Cont. see OBAMA pg-6 Andrew Rice, currently a State Senator District 46, is running against incumbent Republican James Inhofe for U.S. Senate Anarew born April 23, 1973, attended Casady College in 1996 with a bachdor’s degree in Religious Studies, then went on to receive his Masters in Theological Studies from Harvard Divinity School in 1999. From 1996 to 1999, he studied drug addiction problems and treatment in urban India. During graduate school he produced a documentary .....Cont. see RICE pg-6 ROCKNORTH NEW PLACE, SAME MISSION By Vicor Gorin OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__ For over 10 years Red Rock North provided free HIV testing and counseling at their former OKC location on the N.\V. 39th Street Strip. It came to be a haven where those questioning their HIV status, those affected by HIV, and those needing to learn more about it could seek help in a non-judgmenta! place. Now located inside the Red Rock Behavioral Health Services Headquarters at 4400 N. Lincoln Boulevard, they still provide those services in the same way, their mission unchanged. The testing clinic is located on the 2nd floor, and the testing is free and confidential on a walk-in basis from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday thru Thursday, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Fridays. Testing is free & available for those over 13 years old. Other services are provided as well, including mental health and substance abuse assistance & counseling focused mainly on the GLBT community and/or those who are HIV infected or affected. Red Rock is a nonprofit agency, worldng in partnership with the Oklahoma State Health Department, that also ...........Continued see RED ROCK pg-11 Jim Roth-incumbent Democrat Oldahoma Corporation Commissioner running against Republican Dana Murphy. When Jim Roth was elected to represent thd citizens 0f Oklahoma Countys D~stnct 1 in 2002, it was a milestone not only to the GLBT community but also for Oklahoma County residents who longed for positive change. Needless to say, they got it. A welcome change during his first term was that he got 8 bridges built in his district, while his predecessor only got one. He i spearheaded expanding a policy of nondiscrimination for Oklahoma County employees that included sexual orientation and the handicapped. Jim not only won widespread respect for himself, but unprecedented respect for the office itself. This was dearly shown ....Cont. see ROTH pg-6 Democrat Ron Marlett is running against incumbent Republican Sally Kern of State House District 84. opp~rt~fiity to run against a state representarive with mo~ nation~ (and even som~ ifite> nati0nal) fiotoriety. Sal!~ the ineumbefit for ,vas already we!! lmo~ for her agenda as a self-described "warrior for Judeo-Christian values". She crusaded against the book "King and King" being in the Children’s Section of Oklahoma Public libraries, referring to it as "obscene" and claiming that Oklahoma libraries were attempting to "sexualize your children." SWnen minimum wage was $5.15 an hour she opposed raising it, wanting a study of how people on this income level budget their money. During hearings on immigration, she asked a wimess who stated that she was Puerto Rican if she was an American. But ,#chat finally prompted Ron Marlett to run was hearing the infamous ....Cont. see MARLETT pg-6 "I think any crime committed against a person because of their sexual orientation that is not considered a hate crime, is unacceptable. A hate crimes glii ~tis~be~a~to i~t~de sexual orient,+ion/’ Tulsa ~emScrat Chad Hawldns for state Re~+++ntatig+ Di++ric~ ~9 against[ Repiiblidm~ i~eumr b+nt Weld0fi Wat+ofi! Chad Hawldns, born in Tulsa, a graduate ofJenks High School, Tulsa Community College and Northeastern State University. "I believe in this country, I believe in the State of Oklahoma and I believe in the City ofTulsa. Unfortunately, poor leadership and lack of or simple disregard for foresight and planning has lead to a rotting infrastructure, substandard education, and a dependence on foreign energy sources due to a failed national energy policy." For more info. visit: Hawkins4tulsa.com NOVEMBER 1, 2008 Dana Orwig Dana Orwig is running against Republican Jason Nelson, who worked as a fund-raiser in 2001, raising $6 million dollars Dana Orwig is running f’or the second time to represent the constituents of State House District 87. She ran unsuccessfully in 2006 against Republican incumbent Trebor Worthen, who is not running for the position again. Now not having to run against an incumbent, with a better campaign and strategy and voters more hungry for change, she is very optimistic about this upcoming election. She has lived in the District for more than 28 years, with her husband Steve, who is a physician Oklahoma City’s VA hospital. They have 2 daughters, along with 2 son in-laws and 2 lively grandsons. She has been ordained as a deacon in the Episcopalian Church, and has served in ways ranging from ....Cont. see ORWIG pg-6 Latino Night at Local ~ gays m Club Successful Law ~Marl~t. "I’m Ron Marlett and I’m running for State House District 84 because I want a chance to bring about change that really matters for my fellow Oklahomans: good jobs, affordable healthcare, a quality educational system and real freedom and equality." I NEED YOUR HELP TO WIN THIS ELECTION, WE CAN MAKE ~T HAPPEN! need money and volunteers! Ron Mar~ett RO. Box 854 Bethany, OK 73008 (405) 640-2069 www.ronmarlettforhousedistrict84.com www.metrostarnews.com ~t~oSTAR 3 LATINO NIGHT AT OKC’s ANGLES Sabados maravillosas otre veces! By Victor Gorin When Latino night debuted at Angles September 28, it was a time of anxious anticipation. ~fhere had been numerous attempts to bring business up at Angles since Nick Post had acquired it last year. During the last few ),ears Angles had gone from being packed on the weekends to virtually empty, and there had been many ideas and brainstorms to bring back the crowds they had before. One of these was Latino Night, featuring Spanish music where GLBT Latinos & their friends could celebrate their culture and be themselves, something that had been successful at the late Club Rox ( inside the late Hollywood Hotel) and at Sisters (a former Lesbian dub now the location of Phoenix Rising). This was a party with no place to go that Latino partiers were dying to celebrate. Spearheading this effort was DJ Juan Adame, who with his friends spearheaded the idea. The first night was trepidation personified, but they distributed flyers, talked it up, texted & emaited everybody they knew and hoped for the best. Needless to say Angles was overvchelmed ~vith a huge crowd of partiers, gay and lesbian Latinos, some Asians, some Caucasians, and some straight people who know a good time when it’s happening, many coming from Tulsa and other places to fiesta with the locals. It needed to happen because as DJ Juan puts it, "We could go to straight Latino clubs where we guys could not dance together. At gay clubs we could occasionally hear Latino music, but we knew we needed a place of our own where we could dance together, enjoy our music and culture as Latinos." Gender Advocacy Team, and other community leaders for a special evening remembering individuals who have died as victims ofantitransgender hatred or prejudice. The event will be at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center on Thursday, November 20th, 2008, at 7:00 PM. ~ne Equality Center is located at 621 E. 4th Street, on the corner of 4th Street & Kenosha in Downtown Tulsa, Oldahoma. He wants to thank those who helped him make it happen. "The Gay Latino community is growing, and the people helping me have been wonderful, bringing music, giving me ideas, being together and supporting each other as one, and I want to thank these people who helped me put this together." For the community, it fills a need. As Latina Yogi Doroteo puts it,"It means a lot for our community, it gives the gay Latino community a place to go, to meet other Latinos. It also helps the community as a whole get to l~aaow us better, and that is needed." P~6~n a suc~es~ Latifi6 nigh~ Will h~n ev~ ery other Saturday at Angle.s for those seeking tiempos buenos ( good times). It obviously was long overdue. ( November Schedule is Saturdays 8 & 11) Transgender Day o£Remembrance Observance On November 20th at Dennis R. Neill Equality Center "Sometimes, as a cornmunity, we forget the struggles of people who are not as visible as others. Yet, I am proud of our organization’s commitment to the full inclusion of the transgender community. This June saw a very successful "Gender Avengers" production celebrating the "T" ofLGBT Pride. We have very dedicated transgender volunteers, program participants and committee leaders. The full participation of all members of our community is essential to fulfilling our mission." said OkEq Board President Toby Jenkins. Zoey Sloane, a member of the Pride Marketing Team and the Gender Advocacy Team, noted that, "Discrimination and violence towards gay and lesbian people, as well as towards transgender people, is usually because of a real or perceived gender or gender-role variance. A guy is targeted because he’s "too feminine," or a girl is targeted because she’s "too butch." It really has much more to do with gender issues than sexual orientation. Hopefully, that realization will cause more people tobe commi~t~ ~ th~ ~!! i~[~ ...... ~i0~; ~f’e~ ~nd ~fiality 6f ~ebpl~ who af~..... transgender." According to the website http://gender. org/remember/day/, the Transgender Day of Remembrance serves the purpose of raising public awareness of hate crimes against transgendered people. It publicly mourns and honors the lives of our brothers and sisters who might otherwise be forgotten, and it allows the expression of love and respect for real people here in our communities in the face of local and national ignorance, indifference and hatred. TULSA, OK (PR) __ Please join the members and friends of Oklahomans for Equality(OkEq), the members of the OkEq CC United Metropolitan Community Church Sunday Services @ 11:00 AM 1623 N, Maplewood Tulsa, OK www,mcctu sa,o g 4 ~et;oSTAR November 2008 wv,~N.metrostarnews.com ~et~’~STAR 5 GLBT community more personal, the fundamental reasons I have for supporting equality are greater than any individual.... We need to end the divisive politics of George W. Bush and pursue policies that treat all of us, regardless of identity or background, with dignity, equality and respect." Obama vowed, "If elected, I would call on Congress to enact legislation that would repeal DOMA and ensure that the over 1,100 federal legal rights and benefits currendy provided on the basis of marital status are extended to same-sex couples in civil unions and other legally recognized unions." For more information visit: w~wa~.BarrackObama.com entitled Ashes, which focused on the AIDS epidemic there. Back home again, he won election to the Oklahoma State Senate in 2006, representing approximately 71,000 people in central Oldahoma City. He has served on the Committees of Business and Labor, Health and Human Resources (co-chair), and Public Safety and Homeland Security. He led a successful effort to make it easier for lo~ governments to donate abandoned properties for use by Habit for Humanity" for lo~v income housing. He also authored legislation to create a State Veteraffs Health Insurance Program to provide coverage to uninsured Oklalaoma veterans. Unlike Senator Inhofe, who coined the phrase God Guns and Gays and has also stated that he’s proud that his family history has no homosexuality, Andrew Rice supports equalitty for all Oklahomans and will take those values to Washington. He is supported by the ~eace and justice community and organized bor, as opposed to Inhofe who has a 0% rating from the AFL-CIO, has opposed most minimum wage increases, and is ~vell known as a ruatter of record that he is no friend of working people. Andre~v also doesn’t share Inhofe’s view that global warming is a hoax. ~ae choice could not be more clear. Let’s elect Andrew Rice to be our voice in Washington. by his re-election in 2006 when his opponent, David Mehlhaff ran his campaign almost totally on the premise of bigotry, rarely if ever bringing up Mr. Roth’s job performance. When the constituents could see first hand the benefits of competent compassion, they recognized what was important and voted Jim back in handily with 63.4% supporting him. His abilities and dedication were recognized by Republicans and Democrats from many walks of life, including Governor Henry, who appointed him June 1, 2007 to serve Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Denise Bode’s unexpired term when she resigned to take a job in the private sector. Although many constituents don’t give it much thought, the Commission touches our lives as we get gas for our cars or flip a light switch, as,vell as many other blessings ~ve take for granted. He has proven himself again in the time he has already served on the Commission that he is beholden to the people and not special interests, and has the courage to stand up for ~vhat is rig~ht even if he has to stand alone. As Jim puts it: "I’m standing for over 3 million Oklahomans who want a brighter tomorrow. I’m mindful that it takes an oath, a responsibility and the ethics to serve 100% of this state. It’s been my honor to take the oath to do it, and I hope for the opportunity to continue to serve." Sunday school teacher to prison ministry. She has been a teacher in both public and private schools, and truly understands firsthand issues of education. She also understands and is committed to the needs of working Oklalaonaans. Endorsed by the AFL-CIO Central Labor Council, she is committed to helping Oklal~oma’s small businesses stay competitive and supporting the companies already here. VC-hen asked if she supports the "gay agenda", this is her answer. "I have friends and family members who are gay. I also have supporters how are gay. My position is that our government should protect the civil rights of all its citizens." recording (the one that made youmbe) of Sally Kern speaking at a Republican meeting, where she stated that gays were a bigger threat than terrorism or Islam, and compared them to cancer. Ron Marlett heard the comments about the GLBT community, and decided that he had to run, to offer the Oklahomans of District 84 something better. Currently a social worker with Community Pathways Unlimited ( an agency working with disabled and elderly people in Oklahoma nursing homes) he said in an interview with the Metro Star that he could not let Ms. Kern go unchallenged. Mr. Marlett earned an excellent score when he responded to a survey from the Oklahoma Gay & Lesbian Political Caucus, and has been an outspoken advocate for equality .... for all Oklalaomans. He grew up in a union household, supports workers’ rights and won the endorsement of the Oklahoma State AFLCIO, in contrast to the voting record and statements of his opponent. He faces a tough race in a very conservative district. His main point? " I think the biggest difference between me and my opponent is that I will fight for everyone’s freedom. She has already made it clear in her own words that not all religions or lifestyles are equal. IfI am elected to represent District 84 1 hope this will send a message not only to our state to also to our nation that our freedoms and equality are important." Directory ofLoca_[ Animal Shelters Tulsa Shelter 918-669-6299 Broken Arroxv 918-259-8311 OKC 405 297 3104 Muskogee 918 686 7297 Stillwater 405 372 0334 Coweta 918-486 2137 Siloam Sprfngs 479 524 6535 Claremore 918 341 1260 Sand Springs 918 246 2543 Jenks 918 299 6311 Owasso 918-272-4965 Sapulpa 918 227 2722 Norman 405 321 6725 Collinsville 918 371 1000 Courtesy ofw,a~v.labrescue.net 6 ~/et~"oSTAR November 2008 Wockner News Service Connecticut Supremes legalize same-sex marriage Three down, 47 to go. Connecticut’s Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage Oct. 10, following in the footsteps of California and Massachusetts. In a 4-3 decision, the justices said denying same-sex couples equal access to marriage violated the state constitution’s guarantee of equal protection under the law. "Interpreting our state constitutional provisions in accordance with firmly established equal protection principles leads inevitably to the conclusion that gay" people are entitled to marry," the decision said. "To decide otherwise would require us to apply one set of constitutional principles to gay, persons and another to all others." The ruling is expected to take effect around Nov. 7. Attorney General Richard Blumenthai said he ~vould not challenge the decision in any way: Gov. M. Jodi Rell said she didn’t like the ruling but has no plans to oppose it. "The Supreme Court has spoken," she said. "I do not believe their voice reflects the majority of the people of Connecticut. However, I am also firmly convinced that attempts to reverse this decision -- either legislatively or by amending the state constitution -- will not meet with success." The case was brought in 2004 in New Haven Superior Court on behalf of eight gay and lesbian Connecticut couples who had been denied marriage licenses, q-he couples now have been together for between 10 and 32 years and are raising a total of 14 children. Tne court’s 85-page decision can be read online at tinyurl.com/conndec. Same-sex marriage also is legal in Belgium, Canada, the Netherlands, South Africa and Spain -- and will become legal in Norway in January. Jay Leno supports samesex marriage TV talk show host Jay Leno expressed unequivocal support for same-sex marriage on his Oct. 1 broadcast. During a chat with out talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, Leno said: "I come from Massachusetts, and they’ve had it in Massachusetts for a !ong time. And it’s.fine. Tile world doesn’t collapse. "You know, I must admit, I go to West Hollywood -- people know that’s the gay area. The nicest area, the cleanest area, the safest area. I mean, I dofft get it. I mean, if two people warn to have something together -- the economy is falling apart, I don’t care what you do!"~ DeGeneres said to Leno, "They are trying to ... stop gay people from marrying, like somehow Portia and I staying at home watching Dancing With the Stars is affecting anybody." Etheridge, Michaels to marry Singer Melissa Etheridge, 47, and actress Tammy Lynn Michaels, 33, are getting married, Etheridge told tile TV show Extra on Oct. 1. "Yes, we have four children and we’re trying to find the right time," Etheridge said. California’s Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in June. On Nov. 4, voters will decide whether to amend the state constitution to undo the ruling. Polls have shown support for same-sex marriage as high as 55 percent and as low as 42 percent. They have clocked opposition to same-sex marriage as high as 47 ~percent and as low as 38 percent. Seven to l0 percent of voters have polled as undecided on Prop 8. FLORIDA State Amendments Seem Likely to Lose Posted by Daily Queer News October 20, An effort to rewrite the Florida Constitution to prohibit gay marriage is falling short of the numbers needed for victory in the Nov. 4 election, a Sun Sentinel and Florida Times- Union poll shows. Tne poll of 600 likely voters shows support for Amendment 2 at 53 percent, less than the 60 percent approval rate required to change the constitution. ~ae gay-marriage question is one of six statewide referendums on this year’s lengthy ballot. The poll found uncertainty high on all of the rest, which range from tax breaks for homeowners who install hurricane protection to elimination of racist language from the state constitution. Backers of the gay-marriage ban say the poll should be a wake-up call to conservatives to vote. Opponents say the poll shows they have made progress in explaining that the proposal could jeopardize domestic partnership benefits that many governments and companies offer straight and gay employees. California protects gay seniors Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a bill Sept. 28 to help prevent anti-gay bias in senior-care facilities and nursing homes. The law, which takes effect Jan. 1, requires licensed health care professionals who have constant interaction with seniors to attend a training program on preventing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. "Some members of the (GLBT) community living in nursing homes have been denied their most basic rights, including the simple choice to spend time with a loved one, because of their sexual orientation or gender identity," said Equality California Executive Director Geoff Kors. "We appreciate the support of Gov. Schwarzenegger and the Legislature for approving this measure, which ¯;viii prractively create a culture of respect and understanding for all seniors living in care facilities." EQCA said basic rights such as the choice to live in the same nursing home with a partner and the right too hospital visitation are routinely denied to older same-sex couples. Connecticut residents support same-sex marriage decision A Hartford Courant/University of Connecticut poll has found that 53 percent of state residents support the Oct. 10 state Supreme Court decision that legalized same-sex marriage, and 42 percent don’t like it. Among Democrats, 72 percent support it while, among Republicans, 69 percent oppose it. The poll of 502 adult residents had a margin of error of 4.4 percentage points. In a 4-3 decision, the Connecticut justices said denying same-sex couples equal access to marriage violated the state consn" tun"on’s guarantee of equal protection under the law. "Interpreting our state constitutional provisions in accordance with firmly established equal protection principles leads inevitably to the conclusion that gay people are entided to marry," the decision said. "To decide otherwise would require us to apply one set of constitutional principles to gay persons and another to all others." The ruling is expected to take effect around Nov. 7. Same-sex marriage also is legal in California, Massachusetts, Belgium, Canada, the Netherlands, South Africa and Spain -- and will become legal in Norway in January. There is no residency requirement to get married in the three U.S. states or Canada. Gays protest at Louisville McDonald’s Gay activists and others protested outside a downtown Louisville McDonaM’s on Oct. 10 after an employee called a gro.~p ofgay customers ’faggots"and a sup~isor said the incidwnt was no"big deal" and refused to refiand the customers’ money. Fairness carnpaign photo Gay activists and others protested outside a downtown Louisville McDonald’s on Oct. 10 after an employee called a group ofgay customers "_faggots" and a supervisor said the incident was no "big deal" and refused to refund ~e customers’ money. "For any business to treat its gay customers this way is beyond the pale," said protester Becca O’Neill from the University of Louisville’s Lambda Law Caucus. q-he demonstrators carried signs reading, "Discrimination Don’t Belong in a Happy Meal," "Homophobia Served Here" and "NOT Lovin’ It." "We have a law against anti-gay discrimination in Louisville, but we want people to know that these incidents still happen and that bttsinesses that take part in this kind of illegal discrimination will be held accountable," said Jeff: Rodgers, co-coordinator of the Fairness Campaign. Ryan Marlatt, Teddy Eggers and three friends had stopped for lunch at the East Market Street McDonald’s on July 26. As they waited for their food, an employee referred to them as "faggots" to another employee. Marlatt and Eggers asked to speak with a manager, who then refused to refund the group’s purchase. Marlatt said he attempted several times in the following weeks to contact the general manager of the restaurant and the corporate offices, but got no response. The group seeks an apology, a refund of $28 and disciplinary action against tile employees involved. w~,~w.rnetrostarnews.com }&~troSTAR 7 LGBT Entrepreneurs Keep Going as Financial Titans Struggle Despite this past year’s economic slowdmvn, the recent credit crunch and plummeting stock prices on Wall Street, LGBT small business owners, like many of their straight counterparts, are successfully riding out the storm. Top economists and business leaders have declared the current financial morass an "economic apocalypse," yet recent congressional action on the $700 billion bailout bill points the way to what many hope is a brighter economic future. "This bill’s success shows that Americ£s la,vmakers understand the importance of a strong economy--and particularly that the tightening credit crisis was risking the ability of small businesses to make payroll, stock shelves and keep up with day-to-day expenses," says Chance Mitchell, co-founder and CEO of the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. "In short, without this package, small businesses which make up the engine that run the United States economy seriously risked coming to an abrupt halt," Mitchell adds. The biggest threat to small businesses from U.S. financial woes is the tightening of credit markets. Credit is a lifeline for small businesses looking to grow and maintain operations, and in some places, it’s getting harder to find. Many banks are boosting credit score thresholds and tightening credit all around. "Small business owners, whether or not they use credit to run or expand their own businesses, know that access to credit and a fully functioning financial market are important to them and to their customers, suppliers and vendors," says Todd Stottlemyer, president and CEO of the National Federation of Independent Business. For LGBT small businesses, the focus is on making do in this unpredictable economy. Ask Izzy Schechner, a member of Plexus, the LGBT chamber for Cleveland, Ohio. He owns D&I Restaurant Group, a corporate catering company that’s closer than most small businesses to the banldng crisis--one of the cafeterias D&I runs is for a commercial bank. "A lot ofmy customers in the cafeteria are either cutting back their orders drastically or bringing food from home," says Schechner. "That has impacted our business by about 25 or 30 percent." In addition to dropping customer orders, Schechner has stopped cashing his own paycheck while making some painf~ cuts to his business. "For the first time we’ve been going to discount wholesalers like Sam’s Club and Costco to get the same products we norm_ally have delivered. We’ve had to lay offa few people and we’ve stopped giving vacation pay this year for the first time ever," he says. Marci Bair, a financial planner and employee benefits consultant in San Diego, has only gotten busier. "~lhe majority ofmy clients are small business owners coming in for advice on how to cut costs and [,,estructure their employee benefits," sa~ys Bair. We primarily look at ~il the aspects or the business where we can cut costs; a significant cost is in the health insurance area." Bair, who belongs to the her local LGBT chamber, the Greater San Diego Business Association, says that business owners for the most part want to keep as many options open for their employees as possible. "Now is not the time for employees to be without insurance," she says. "Some owners are going for a ~igher deduct!ble plan, while others want to hang in there with their current plans" in anticipation of better times. And making sure to do business in the community is key to bringing those better times back, says Sam McClure, executive director of Twin Cities Quorum, the LGBT chanaber of commerce for Minneapolis and St. Paul. "We’re seeing relationships among LGBT businesses grow e~’en tighter since this economic crisis started," says McClure. "We’re talking about how important it is to do business in your community again, even more than usual, and that’s something that we haven’t really talked about since the late 80s." McClure also points to individual measures businesses can take, and that her chamber has consistently pushed,,, such as maintaining a high credit ratin,g. ’ Planning strategically, . for growth is cruc,al now, because I dont th~nk businesses are going to have,as much flexibility as in the past, she says. ’ So being part of .the community has taken on a higher level of importance. Bair too is doing her part for the LGBT coinmunity and members of the LGBT chamber. She’s helping LGBT couples and individuals maneuver through complicated financial and health care decisions as they face layoffs and office c!osures. 8chechner says that he feels supported by fellow LGBT entrepreneurs as wellas he maneuvers through this difficult economy. "It’s comforting to have a sounding board from our chanlber of commerce, just to bounce ideas off of and to help with cost-saving strategies, networking, and to help utilize our resources to the max," he says. McClure suggests LGBT entrepreneurs practice an economics of conscience. "Whenever we earn or spend a dollar inside of our community we are flexing our considerable economic muscle. I would say to every gay and gay-friendly business owner, choose thoughtfully where you buy your next cup of coffee, where you have your next lunch meeting, where you invest your retirement funds, where you go for happy hour. "Every choice is a new opportunity to drive our economic power for change." (Source NGLCC http://v~ccw.nglcc.org/BIZ/ index ) 8 P#~÷t~oSTAR November 2008 How to Protect Your Loved Ones When the State Will Not Life planning helps same-sex couples protect each other. By Attorney Susan A. Muscari I~hoto: 7~dsa AttornG Susan A. 3d.,~scari Same-sex couples face several challenges when it comes to the legal and tax system, especially in the state of Oklahoma where same-gender marriages are not recognized. If one partner dies, the remaining partner may find themselves in a legal battle against the deceased~ family - unless a legally binding plan has been put into effect. Ira homosexual couple was married in a state that recognized it as legal, and then moved or returned to Oldahoma, Oklahoma still does not recognize that marriage. For same-sex couples, the tax burden is much larger than that ofheterosexua~ married couple. However, while all residents must abide by Otdahoma’s laws, there are ways to navigate them to ensure the assets and real estate of you and your partner are titled to enable fewer tax penalties. Tixere are also preparations partners can make to ensure each person’s wishes are fotlmved in the situation of a catastrophic illness, temporary incapacitation, or the event of death. ~xere are five essential documents that same-sex couples should create t~ protect themselves and their partners. Prepare an Advanced Medical Directive Setup Durable Power ofAttorney Create a Revocable Living Trust Prepare a Last Will and Testament Setup an Authorization to Disclose Medical Records First, an Advanced Medical Directive allows same-sex partners to name each other as healthcare proxy, permitting a partner to speak with physicians on the other’s behalf. It is often hard on both the individual’s family and partner in times of distress and tensions can arise resulting in conflicting opinions in terms of care. The medical directive ensures there is no confusion as to who will be making the decisions on behalf of an individual if they are unable to do so for themselves. Along that same line, instituting a Durable Power ofAttorney provides same-sex couples the right to make personal and financial decisions on behalfofa partner if they ever become disabled. By ~vorking with a team of an estate planning attorney and a CPA, same-sex couples can esfablish finite directives and asset protections through a Revocable Living Trust, allmving couples to pass assets to their partner. Though the state of Oklahoma may not recognize or respect same-sex marriages, samegender trusts are recognized by the state and have not been successfully challenged. A trust, with very careful planning, can also help same-sex couples avoid several tax consequences. There am two ways for domestic partners to set up a trttst; one option for couples is to set up separate trusts and designate each other as the beneficiaries. This is the best option for couples Who may have competing interests such as a child from a previous relationship. Separate trusts can provide for the child as well as the partner in a worse-case scenario situation. The second option is to create a joint trust in which the assets of both indMduals are combined into one trust. While this is the ideal for long-term couples, it is imperative to enter into this arrangement xvith the understanding that there will likely be tax consequences. Ti~e best advice for couples who decided to go the course of a shared trust is to let the assets remain in the trust. As long as the assets stay where they are, the surviving partner can avoid extreme tax consequences that same-sex couples often fall under. Lastly, with an authorization to disclose medical records and a Last Will and Testament in place, same-sex couples can institute a No Contest Clause, effectively establishing partners as personal representatives of each other. It also protects the remaining partner from anyone who may contest their rights as a representative and beneficiary. The crt~x of the matter is that there are ways to plan for domestic partners, but do not count on Oklahoma and its laws to provide that protection. Same-sex partners deserve the same protection that their heterosexual counterparts receive, but it takes careful life planning aa~d the right documents in place to do so. For a personal consultation on your specific needs, you may contact Susan at (918) 770-3423 or visit: ,aw~w.muscarilaw.com. Palin Indicates Support for Federal Marriage Amendment Nearly 60 percent ofAmericans oppose writing discrimination into U.S. Constitution WASHINGTON, DC (PR-HRC) __ Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, the GOP nominee for vice-president, has indicated in an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network that she would support an amendment to the U.S. Constitution excluding gay and lesbian couples from marriage. The so-called Federal Marriage Amendment has faced bipartisan opposition in both houses of Congress, both of which have voted the FMA down twice. Sarah Pahn ~s out of step w~th the majomy ofAmericans, nearly 60 percent ofwhom are opposed to writing discrimination into the U.S. Constitution," said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese. "Her view stands in stark contrast to the ideals that make America great: freedom, opportunity, and eq~,ality. These are the tenets upon which our nation was built. An August 2008 poll from TIME Magazine shows that 58 percent ofAmericans believe that the U.S. Constitution should not be amended to define marriage as being between one man and one woman. The Human Rights Cam,paign PAC, the political action committee of the nations largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender civil rights organization, previously released an online video in response to comments made by Patin in which she stated that she believes homosexuality is a choice. The video released by HRC PAC is narrated by Michael Cole, senior manager of HRC’s media center, who flew to Alaska with a video production crew to talk with Wasilla’s LGBT community. View the video at http:/ha~-,v.youtube.com/hrcmedia. www.metrostarnews.com ~I®t~~STAR 9 Palin tries to walk center line on gays News analysis by Rex Woc¼aer Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin is strongly against same-sex marriage and has a history of speaking against gay rights, but in the current campaign she’s attempting to strike a middle ground. "I am not going tO judge Americans and tile decisions that they make in their adult personal relationships," she recently told CBS News. "t have one ofmy absolute best friends for the last 30 years who happens to be gay, and I love her dearly -- and she is not my ’gay friend,’ she is one of my best friends, who happens to have made a choice that isn’t a choice that I have made, but I’m not going to judge people." Palin, however, was judged for that comment by gay activists, who took exception to her saying that being gay is a "choice." There also has been Internet chatter that no one can identify who Palin’s lifelong lesbian pal is. Patin likewise attempted to appear tolerant during the Oct. 2 vice presidential debate. "If there~ any kind of suggestion at all from my answer that I would be anything but tolerant of adults in America choosing their partners, choosing relationships that they deem best for themselves -- you know, I am tolerant and I have a vmT diverse i]amily and group of friends and even within that group you would see some who may not agree with me on this issue, some very dear friends who don’t agree ~vith me on this issue," she said. "But in that tolerance also, no one would ever propose, not in a McCain-Paliri administration, to do anything to prohibit, say, visitations in a hospital or contracts being signed, negotiated bet~veen parties." But then she stated unequivocally: "I will tell Americans straight up that I don’t support defining marriage as anything but between one man and one woman, and I think through nuances we can go round and round about what that actually means. But I’m being as straight up ~vith Americans as I can in my nonsupport for anything but a traditional definition of marriage." Because Democratic candidates Barack Obama and Joe Biden also claim to oppose same-sex marriage, because Palin was trying to sound tolerant, and because debate host Gwen Ifill was anything but aggressive in her questioning, some debate viewers xvere lei~ with the impression that there is no difference between the two teams on issues of gay equality. Nothing could be further from the truth. Obama and Biden support giving same-sex couples all the rights of marriage -- everything but the word -- and oppose attempts to ban same-sex marriage in the states where it is legal. John McCain and Palin, on the other hand, support statewide bans on same-sex marriage, do not speak in support of civil unions, and, in the final analysis, seemingly would go only so far as letting gay people visit a sick partner in the hospital and allowing them to sign private contracts to attempt to protect their relationship legally. That’s a far cry from the Democratic position in favor of granting gay" couples all marriage rights under a different label. "Do I support granting same-sex benefits?" Biden asked during the debate with Palin. "Absolutely positive!): Look, in an Obama-Biden administration, there will be absolutely no distinction from a constitutional standpoint or a legal standpoint between a same-sex and a heterosexual couple." Rea Carey; lesbian, gay; bisexual and transgender rights leader, demands higher standard from national candidates WASHINGTON, DC (PR) __ Rea Carey, executive director of the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund, responds to the vice presidential debate between Republican Gov. Sarah Palin and Democratic Sen. Joseph Biden.Statemerit by Rea Carey, Executive Director National Gay’and Lesbian ~ask Force Action Fund Press releasephoto: Rea Care),, Executive Director National Gay and Lesbian Ta~-k Force Action Fund "I found myself reacting as ifI had heard fingernails on a chalkboard when Gov. Sarah Palin talked about her tolerance. I’m sorry, but tolerance with a smile does not equal support for our lives nor does it honor the validity of our relationships and families. Much of the country has moved well beyond the condescension and dismissiveness of’tolerance.’ We have higher expectations than patronizing statements of tolerance by anyone seeking to lead this nation. We also have higher expectations for those political leaders, such as Sen. Joseph Biden, who have been our allies on so many issues to finally, and unequivocally, stand up for our full equality. "I look fotward to a day xvhen the leadership of our country can set an example and dearly state that it is time for the rejection of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans to end. Too many elected officials have not even met the low bar of calling for complete legal equality for all Americans. "We live in difficult times. Families sit at their kitchen tables dealing with the challenges of our day, -- keeping their jobs, putting fuel in their tanks and food on the table, and obtaining good and affordable health care. Our families -- LGBT families -- are dealing with the exact same concerns, only without the legal protections that are so critical to our welfare. What I wanted to hear in the debate, and did not, is a belief that protections and opportunities, like marriage, should exist so that our families have the ability to both thrive and to contribute to society on equal footing with our straight friends and neighbors." ¯he Fruit Doesn’t Fall Far From the Tree ? or A Tragedy Waiting for an Ending By James Nimmo O~HOMA CITY, OK __ I attended the last of two debates between Corporation Commissioner Jim Roth and the GOP opponent Dana Murphy. Held at Oldahoma City University" in the School of Law Building there were about ! 50 people listening including GOP Rep, Sally Kern and her husband. I think if you’re reading this you know that Ms. Kern carried a loaded hand gun twice into the Oklahoma Capitol Building and that every waking moment of her life is devoted to thinking about how gay men and lesbians conduct their private lives and how she can break up the action. I think her husband, Rev. Steve Kern, chief minister at Olivet Baptist Church in Oklahoma City, is also devoted to the s,ame voyeurism consuming his wi~. I believe this because I ve attended in the early spring five services preached by Rev. Kern and he never failed to mention the clinical, pseudo-scientific word "homosexuality" in those sermons and the great evils spurting there from. He even said that men having sex with other men look like dogs. I swear I’m not making this up! Imagine saying this in front of 60- and 70-year old white hetem men and women steeped in the blood of their G-sus! At the conclusion of the debate I went up to Ms. Kern and reminded her that it’s also illegal to carry a gun onto a college campus. She replied that I was ~velcome to call a securityguard and have her purse searched. I declined the invitation saying I wanted to make sure she knew the law. Fearing that his Biblica! help-meet made from a rib ~vas losing the thread of the discussion, Rev. Kern asked me why I was so hung tip on Sally’s gun toting. I asked Rev: Kern why were he and Sa!ly~ so hung up on "homosexuality"? Is it because the fruit hasnt fallen far from the tree? Oh, but Rev. Kern said they’re only interested in morality and that I should attend their church and see what it’s like. I reminded him I’d been to their church five times and I had all the X-tian morality I could stomach. Let me tell you I was the unidentified man escorted from the Bethany City Hall two weeks ago when I stood up at a political forum and asked on behalfof public safety ifSally Kern was carrying her gun in a "no weapons" area such as the auditorium we were sitting in. Shouldn’t it bother you to know that there are people on the public payroll who have no intention of obeying the law when it applies to their idea that they are ABOVE earthly law and prefer the higher law of the Triune heavenly father-son-holy spirit? An interview with Jesse Kern, one of the sons of the hetero- Kerns, appeared in the Tulsa World ( http:,//tinyurl.com/ 39kpsq ) earlier this year when his mothers You Tube speech ( http:lltinyurl.comlyq91ak ) was burning on the internet like the purifying fires of hell. Jesse said he was not gay and had given his sexuality to his god. That’s funny. I didn’t know God needed a sex buddy. I’m no psychiatrist, I’m purely an observer but doesn’t something he-re smell a bit musty, like it’s been in the closet too long? Let me see: a grown man raised in a fervently fundie church doffs that background, ( http://tinyurl.com/66axyu ) joins a new-age kind of commune, and devotes his sex life to the god of his imagination. At the same time his parents are on a 24-7 rampage for morality, looking for semen stains between every sheet, and partner their politics to organizations associated with some unsavory characters. ( http:l/gossip-boy.comlKern_Campaign.html ) It seems to me that Sally Kern and her family are a tragedy waiting for an ending. 10 ~÷t~°oST,~R November 2008 Ten years. ousands victimized. Not action. Thousands of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people have been victims of hate-motivated violence since Matthew Shepard’s death, and still there is no federal hate crimes law covering sexual orientation and gender identity WASHINGTON, DC (PR) __ Sunday; Oct. 12, marked the 10-year anniversary of the brutal death of Matthew Shepard, and many states and the federal government have yet to enact hate crimes protections covering both sexual orientation and gender identity. This, despite the fact that thousands of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people have been the targets of hate-based violence in the decade since Shepard’s murder, according to statistics from the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP). Statement by Rea Carey, Executive Director National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund provides referrals for assistance for housing, food and other medical issues. Despite the change in location, many of their former clients from the N.W. 39th Street area have come to the new place, as well as others from that area. Although not as ideal as the other location, Mike Maus, a longtime counselor for Red Rock, states that it has worked out. He also feels that because he is well known as a openly gay man who is HIV positive, this helps clients feel comfortable and OK with seeking testing "Ten years ago, the shocking murder of Matthew Shepard sent a national clarion call for stronger federal la~vs to combat crimes motivated by hate. Since then, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people have continued to fall victim to hatestoked violence in shocking numbers. Despite this epidemic ofanti-LGBT violence, the federal government has refused to enact a hate crimes law covering sexual orientation and gender identity. This shameful failure of national xvill and resolve must end in 2009 with a new president and a new Congress. "Today, we remember mad mourn Matthew Shepard. We also remember other young people whose voices fell silent this past yeai: "We mourn Ashley Sweeney of Detroit, Mich., shot to death in February 2008; we mourn Lawrence King of Oxnard; Calif., shot to death in his middle-school classroom in February 2008; we mourn Simmie Williams Jr. ofFt~ Lauderdale, Fla., shot to death in February 2008; and we mourn Angle Zapata of Greeley, Colo., beaten to death with a fire extinguisher in July 2008. We remember and mourn all victims of hate violence, but especially these and other young gendernonconforming people, who died in the hope of freedom to live their lives as they wished." Assessment of progress during the past 10 years Currently, 31 states and D.C. have hate crimes laws that track or make illegal crimes motivated by sexual orientation mad/or gender identity and expression. However, by the time of Matthew Shepard’s death in 1998, 23 of these 31 states had already passed their laws. Since his death 10 years ago, only eight states have added hate crimes protections (Colorado, Hawaii, Maryland, Missouri, New Mexico, New York, Tennessee and Texas). In 19 states, there are no hate crime laws protecting anyone in the LGBT community. On the federal level, champions in both the House and Senate have continued to prioritize passage of legislation that would expand and sn-engthen federal hate crimes legislation. In the 110th Congress, both chambers with bipartisan majorities passed the Matthew Shepard Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act as a free-standing bill in the House and an amendment to the Department of Defense Authorization Act in the Senate. This is the first time both chambers have considered a bill that included both gender identity and sexual orientation. However, strategic and procedural problems prevented Congress from sending a bill to President George Bush, who promised to veto the bill if it did reach that point. Epidemic of anti-LGBT violence LGBT people are disproportionately affected by hate violence. Reports produced by the National Gay and Lesbian Task Photo provided by aJ~iend ofthe victim shows Universi{y ofWyominggay college student Matthew Shepard who was beaten and Ie’.fifior dead in a W~ominy’.gpastute near Laramie, I~210.,~y on Oct. 7, 1998. In the 10 years since, more than 30 states havepassed laws addtessing bias-related crimes against gays, but gay,rights advocates point to a series offrustrations including thefailure of federal hate-crime legislation. (AP) Forc~ (i984=1993) and the National Coalition ofAnti-Violence Programs (1994-2007) have documented more than 35,000 anti-LGBT crimes over the last two decades. It is important to note that these statistics are based on reports from only a handful of local LGBT crime victim assistance agencies. Indusion of transgender people in hate crimes laws is especially important because violence against transgender people is widespread, largely underreported, and disproportionately greater than the number of transgender people in society. The total number of victims reporting anti-LGBTQ violence to NCAX¢~ in 2007 was 2,430, which represents a 24 percent increase over the total number of victims reported in 2006. ~-he Task Force has led the movement-wide effort to secure an effective and full governmental response to hate crimes against LGBT people, beginning with the launch of its groundbreaking anti-violence project in 1982. Task Force organizing, coalition building and lobbying resulted in the 1990 passage of the Hate Crimes Statistics Act, sponsored by U.S. Rep. John Conyers. Ouotable Ouotes "But our country’s journey toward equality is not finished. It’s been five years since Lawrence v. Texas. It’s been 39 years since Stonewall. And we still have more work to do before we achieve equality for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender Americans. Election Day offers an opportunity to take another crucial step toward equality. Millions have joined this movement for change. People are hoping again -- believinggaain -- that we can come together to create, a stronger, fairer nation. And on November 4 we 1! have a chance to put that hope into action." Michelle Obama Photo: Red Rock Counselor ~adike Maus by Victor Gorin As Mike puts it, ’~We are stil! testing as many people as we were before, and we will continue to have a presence in the gay community, keeping on with outreach programs, passing out condoms inthe barsl and educating When possible, particularly at special events such as Pride and World AIDS Day." "We are here to help people determine their HIV status, and develop a plan to deal with that status. Treatment is available for all people with HIV in the United States, regardless of xvhether you have a job, money or insurance. We want to get the word out that we’re here to help." Red Rock HIV testing 877-339 3330 Mike Maus--(405)425-0473 Red Rock Behavioral Health Services (405) 424 7711 Oklahoma STD Hotline 800 535 2437 Oklahoma City-County Health Department STD Clinic (405) 427-8651 Positively Living Support Group-Every Tuesday at Red Rock 5:30 p.m. for those infected or affected by HIV. Tuesday Night Supper Club---Social dinners at varied restaurants every other Tuesday for those likewise dealing with HIV. For more information Chuck Longacre (405) 425-0448. Direct Cremation From $595 TION MORTUARY SERVICE,~ Traditional Funeral Services at Affordable Prices (405) 230- 1310 or !-800-913-1310 Pre-Need Plan CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED 2415-C North Walnut Avenue, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma www.rnetrostarnews.com NetroSTAR 11 @Club 209, Tulsa @Angles, Oklahoma City @ Finishline, Oklahoma City @ The Ledo, Oklahoma City @Club Majestic, Tulsa @ Bamboo Lounge, Tulsa @ The Copa, Oklahoma City @ The Lab Rescue, Tulsa By Greg Steele xk~/rith all the outing of gay penguins, sheep, dogs and other species, is there a possibility there are gay turkeys? How would you know if you were eating one of our own? I mean the poor critters are just herded into the slaughter pen, humanely killed, I presume, plucked and whisked off to Walmart. I for one wil! be asking the Walmart meat lady ifmy turkey was gay! I refuse to bake, fry, barbecue or boil a family member. We assume that all turkeys are hetero, and it’s OK to bake or fry ect., a homophobic hetero turkey, but what ifyour turkey was hetero and gay friendly? This outing of animals and now fowl is just not right. It raises so many questions and creates so many problems and it’s Thanksgiving for God’s sake. W~here are r~e Fowl Rights people when you need them! Have a Great Holiday! 12 ~VI÷troSTAR November 2008 Artists Cindy Swanson and Sharyl Landis e ibit at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center Mosaic "Just Balother Day" TULSA, OK (PR) The Dennis R. Neill Equality Center art gallery will host its monthly First Thursday meet-the-artist reception from 6-9pm, Thursday, November 6, 2008, for the opening of it’s new exhibit featuring artists Cindy Swanson and Sharyl Landis, Swanson will be displaying many of her mosaic works of art. Drawn to the art form by her attraction to the colored glass, Cindy has qtudie.dthe medium i~ Italy under the guidance of two master tlqosalsts. Landis will be featuring her mixed-media art at the show, which She describes as "fascinating and full ofwhimsy’!. Shawl loves using her hands to transform objects into unique designs through the blending of colors, shapes, and textures. Since 1997, beading has been Sharyl’s primary form of expression, though in recent years she has expanded into hand dyed textiles and using beadwork as a 3-D addition to her paintings and textiles. The exhibit will remain up through the month of November, and can be viewed Monday thru Saturday from 3-gpm. The Dennis R. Neill Equality Center is located at 621 E. 4th St., in downtown Tulsa. More info can be found on the web at okeq.org. ~Pnis monthly event is hosted by Oldahoman’s for Equality (OkEq). OkEq seel~ equal rights for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual &:Transgender (LGBT) individuals and families {lx~bugh advocac~ education, programs, alliances, and the Operation of the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. urban living 13 TOWNHOMES SOPHISTICATED DESIGN EXPANSIVE GLASS FRONTS PRIVATE OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES DESIGNER FINISHES AND FIXTURES ENERGY EFFICIENT GREEN AMENITIES AVAILABLE ELEVATOR OPTIONAL ADJACENT TO TULSA PARKS SPACIOUS COMMON DRIVE ROOFTOP PATIO GARDENS AVAILABLE MARTIN NEWMAN 9 I 8.582.4673 MLONEWMAN 2 1 st @ BAain Street VIEW OF DOWNTOWN SKYLINE OPEN LIVING SPACES ELEVATOR OPTIONAL POOL OPTIONAL SECURE GATED ENTRY UTICA SQUARE NEARBY ’PET FRIENDLY GATED GUEST PARKING ONE BLOCK FROM RIVER TRAILS SMART URBAN LIVING CONTEMPORARY STAINLESS APPLIANCES HEATHER MCGRAW 918.607.1 t77 HMCGRAW@MCGRAWOK. COM www.metrostarnews.com ~etroSTAR 13 Mitcham is sad he was only out gay at Olympics Gold-medal diver Matthew Mitcham told the Sydney Morning Herald on Oct. 8 that he is sad he was the only out gay man at the Beijing Olympics. "I was actually very surprised I was the only out male at the Olympic Games," he said. "It’s a little bit sad. I think, because statistically there should be a lot more but, you know what, it’s each to one’s own. I’m not going to pressure awbody else to come out of the closet because it’s their own choice. But I’m proud to be there, proud to be that one that lots of other people can look up to." Some 10,500 athletes took part in the games. Mitcham’s gold-medal dive received the highest score in Olympic diving history. kish trans laws need updating Ireland needs to fix its laws on transgender issues, the Irish Human Rights Commission said Oct. 1. Among other things, post-op transsexuals should be able to get a new birth certificate aa~d get married to someone of the opposite sex, the commission said. The group recommended the government move on the matter with urgency; pointing out that the current laws rtm afoul of decisions by the European Court of Human Rights. Norwegian church will not marry gays when law takes effect Norway will become the seventh nation to grant same-sex couples access to full marriage in January, but the dominant Church of Norway will not marry gays, the state church’s bishops said Oct. 8. Pastors will be permitted to offer prayers for gay couples who get married but may not bless them, the bishops said. Same-sex marriage also is allmved in Belgium, Canada, the Netherlands, South Africa, Spain and, in the U.S., California, Connecticut and Massachusetts. Head ofBritish army addresses gay conference The head of Britain’s army, Gen. Richard Dannatt, chief of the general staff, made history by addressing a gay conference in London Oct. 9, The Sunday Telegraph reported. In remarks to the Fourth Joint Conference on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transsexual Matters, Dannatt said that respecting GLBT officers and soldiers is "a command responsibility" that is mandatory- to ensure "operational effectiveness." "We have made real progress in our understanding of equality and diversity in the military context, and there is a desire to achieve more yet," he said. "Respect for others is not an optional extra, it is a command responsibility and an essential part of leadership, teamwork and operational effectiveness." Britaiffs arrned forces lifted their gay ban in 2000 on orders from the European Court of Human Rights. Iraqi gay leader assassinated The Baghdad head of the international group Iraqi LGBT was assassinated in late Seprember, activists in London reported. Bashar, 27, was gunned down in a barbershop. "Militias burst in and sprayed his body with bullets at point-blank range," said leading British gay activist Peter Tatchell. "~e exact identity of the gunmen is unclear, but he was probably murdered by the Islamist death squads who are targeting lesbian and gay Iraqis for ’sexual cleansing.’" Bashar was the local coordinator of foreignfunded "safe houses" for gays and lesbians living in Iraq. "His efforts saved the lives of dozens of people," Tatchell said. "Bashar xvas a ldnd, generous and extremely brave young man -- a true hero who put his life on the line to save the lives of others." Dutch men on trial for deliberate HIV transmission Three men from Groningen, Netherlands, are on trial for ddiberately infecting at least 12 other men with HIV, several news agencies reported. Hans Jurgens, 39, Peter Mulder, 50, and Wim Deld~er, 49, allegedly advertised gay sex parties online, lured participants to their location, then drugged them, raped them and injected them with HIV-positive blood. Prosecutors want the trio to be jailed for between eight and 15 years. Wockner News Service Larry K ng quizzes Ahmadinejad on gays in 1ran U.S. TVinte,wiewer Lar~y King quizzed Iranian PresidentMahmoud Ahmadinejad on his nation’s treatment ofgays Sept. 23. Screen-capture photo U.S. TV interviewer Larry King quizzed Iranian President Malamoud Ahmadinejad on his nation’s treatment of gays Sept. 23. q]aere have been persistent, though unconfirmed, reports for years that Iran hangs men for the crime of engaging in gay sex. King said: "People (are) protesting that they don’t have the same rights as other people. Homosexuals -- you said last yea,; you denied there were homosexuals (in Iran). There’s homosexuals everywhere." Ahmadinejad replied: "I said it’s not the way it is here (in the U.S.). In Iran this is considered a very -- obviously most people dislike it. And we have actually a law regarding it and the law is enforced. It is a law that was passed. It was legislated. And it is an act that is against human principles. A lot of things can the private realm of people. ~ais is at the (level of) nor-private, public morality. In their own house, nobody ever interferes with people." Last year, during a speech at Columbia University in New York City, Ahmadinejad also was asked about the nation’s treatment of gay people. He responded: "We in Iran ... don’t have hamjensbaz (a derogatory term for homosexuals) like you have in your country. In our country; there is no such a thing. In Iran, such a thing does not -- in Iran, in Iran, absolutely such a thing does not exist as a phenomenon. I don’t know who told you otherwise." Iran is known to have executed several teens and men accused of engaging in sodomy, happen. It can cause psychological problems, although in nearly all the cases that have been social problems that affect the whole society, publicized in recent years the individuals were Remember that God’s rules are to improve human life. In our religion, this act is forbidden and the Parliament has legislated about it. Not now, 70 years ago. This is something that happened 70 years ago, before the Islamic R~public became --" King interjected, "So what happens to gay people?" Ahmadinejad replied: "Well, of course, nobody has held protests. You are -- are you concerned for 70 million Iranian people or a few homosexuals? Let’s assume in Iran -- let’s assume in the United States that 200 million people drive cars and a million violators are rounded up and they just basically violate driving laws. Should we be worried for the 199 million people whose safety we must be concerned about or the one million violators? The law is the law and it’s law. And it must be enforced. Ofcourse, we do pay attention that in Iran nobody interferes in the private lives of individuals. We have nothing to do with accused of other crimes as well, such as rape. The International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission has said it suspecrs that other charges often are tacked onto sodomy cases to prevent the public outrage that wood accompany executions carried out solely for the crime of consensual adult gay sex. The group also has said it believes executions solely for gay sex are taking place out of the public eye. "Our suspicions (are) that their current practice really is to rid society of lesbians and gay men," the organization said last year. Human Rights Watch, on the other hand, has said it cannot fully document any executions in Iran in recent years carried out solely for the crime of consensual adult gay sex. 14 ~et~oSTAR November 2008 Re Roc Horror Show- Next in "Lyric at the Plaza" Series With art: Frank ’iV’ Furter (Monte WheekO prepares to give Brad (Brad!o, Beah~) andJanet (Heather Hawkins) a wild n~ht to remembe~ (_Photo by ~ndy Mutz) O~HOMA CITY, OK (PR) __ Lyric ~eatre, Oklahoma’s premiere professiona! theatre company, concludes the 2007- 2008 "Lyric at the Plaza" season with the big, bad, rock-n-roll musical, The Rocky Horror Show. From October 9th through November 1st, Lyric will present the live version of the spectacular cult classic film about the madcap adventures of Brad Majors and his fiancd Janet Weiss, who approach the spooky Frankenstein place to find help for a flat tire. In the house, though, they encounter the maniacal Dr. Frank ’N’ Furter, the rippling Rocky, the vivacious Magenta, and experience the boldest, naughtiest party of their lives. Lyri& production of Tne Rocky Horror Show will be directed and choreographed by Nick Demos and will be his final show at the helm of Lyric ~qeatre. The Rocky Horror Show was first created by writer/actor Richard O’Brien as a stage musical in 1973. The cinematic version starring Tim Curry and Susan Sarandon followed t~vo years later and went on to become one of the most famous and ardently followed cult films of all time. This popularity has kept the live musical in almost continuous production at theatres around the ~vorld ever since. Oklahoma audiences are encouraged to get into the intended spirit of the show by dressing up and participating in all of the talk-back and extracurricular activities that make Rocky Horror such a wild theatrical experience. Audience participation packages will be available for purchase at the theatre. Like all Lyric productions, The Rocky Horror Show features a blend of talent both from New York and from Oklahoma. Monte ~qaeeler (Off-Broadway: The IT Girl, Streakiri!) stars as Frank ’N’ Furter, Bradley Beahen (assistant director- Enter Laughing, the Musical) performs as Brad, and Oklahoma native Heather Hawkins (Broadway: Avenue Q) gets down and dirty as Janet. The role of Rocky himself is played by Nick Adams, best known for performing opposite Mario Lopez in the Broadway revival ofA Chorus Line. Local talent letting loose for Rocky Horror indudes Renee Anderson as Magenta, Brian Hamilton as Rift Raft, Stephen Hilton as the Narrator, and Michael Todd as Eddie/Dr. Scott. They and a whole host of actors playing Phantoms and Transylvanians will lead the raunchy celebration that includes timeless numbers including "S~veet Transvestite", "Touch-A, Touch-A, Touch Me", and the rousing "Time Warp." Tickets for The Rocky Horror Show are $40. Senior discounts (ages 65+), Group discounts (10+), and College Student discounts (week ofshow with ID) are also available. Performances are October 9th through November 1st: Thursdays at 7:30pm, Fridays at 8:00pm, Saturdays at 6:00pm & 10:00pm. However, t_he Friday, October 31 st performance and the late Saturday, November 1st performance will both begin at midnight instead of the times previously listed. For tickets: w~wc.lyrictheatreokc.com, (405) 524-9312, or in person at 1727 NW 16th St, Oklahoma City, OK. Lyric’s production ofThe Rocky Horror Show is sponsored by the Oklahoman, King’s Limo & Private Jet, the Copa, and Angles. Annual support is provided by Mlied Arts and the Oklahoma Arts Council. In Oklahoma City, the renovation and opening of Plaza ~eatre as an intimate live performance venfie has enabled Lyric to expand its programming to include even more entertainment options for adventuresome theatergoers. Get ready for a night of frolics and fun at The Rocky Horror Show! (rated R for strong language, sexually explicit scenes, and mature themes) Carrie Underwood Oct 29, 2008 at BOK Center Carrie Underwood’s Carnival Ride Tour October 29th, 2008 7:30 pm Prices: $55, $45, $35 Tickets on sale Friday, Sept 12 @ 10am Checotah, Okla. native and two-time Academy of Country Music Top Female Vocalist, Carrie Underwood, is scheduled to stop at the BOK Center on October 29, 2008, for a live performance from her Carnival Ride Tour. With a recordbreaking start to her career, Carrie Underwood has been ,,the top-sellin,g artist,, to come from Fox’s hit television, show, American Idol, and has taken the country mus,c world by storm. Eagles Nov 11, 2008 at BOK Center By popular demand the Eagles will return for a second show!!!! Ticket prices: $187, $87, and $52 The Eagles coming back to play a second date at the BOK Center is a huge accomplishment for the city and attests to the level of excitement and enthusiasm for both the band and the new BOK Center. We need to show the band a gratitude of thanks for ~eturning for a second date in the form of another sell-out said John Bolton, General Manager. Due to overwhelming d,,e,mand, the Eagles have a,dded a second Tulsa date to their Long Road Out of Eden world tour. The Eagles will perform live on Tuesda); November 1 lth at the BOK Center and the band - Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Joe ~Valsh and Timothy B. Schmit - will be perfo,r,ming curre,,nt !~its from Long Road ,,Out of Eden including How Long and Busy Being Fabulous as well as their classic songs. The Eagles have sold more than 120 million albums worldwide, earning five #1 U.S. singles and four Grammy Awards. Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975 is the best-selling albu,,m of all time, exceeding sales of 29 million units. The bands Hotel California and Tneir Greatest Hits Volume 2 have sold more than 16 and 1 ! million albums respectively. The Eagles were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1998. Celine Dion Nov 13, 2008 at BOK Center Tickets On Sale Now! Time: 8:00pm Doors: 7:00pm Ticket Prices: $167.00, $127.00, $77.00. $49.50 BUY EXCLUSIX.~ GOLD HOT SEATS Tulsa is one of 45 cites and the only city in Oldahoma on this tour. Throughout her career, Celine has been honored with over 1000 Awards, including Grammys, Oscars, Golden Globes, World Music, Juno and Felix Awards. She is the biggest- selling female artist of all time. Celtic Thunder Nov 19, 2008 at BOK Center Show time: 8:00pm Ticket Prices: $37.50, $47.50, $57.50, additional surcharges may apply CELTIC THUNDER, a brand-new show created and produced by Sharon Browne, will make its debut in the U.S. with a public television special airing on local stations nationwide in March 2008. Filmed in Dublin the special features five male vocalists (ranging from !4 to 40 - Damian McGinty, Keith Harkin, Ryan Kelly, Paul Byrom, and George Donaldson) perfor,,m,ing an eclectic mix of songs, ranging from the traditional Mountains ofMourne" and "Come By the Hills" to international hits such as "Brothers in Arms" and "Desperado," as well as original compositions by CELTIC THUNDER’s legendary musical director and composer Phil Coulter. November At ~lhe P.A.C Tulsa Nov 1, Janis Ian John H. Williams Theatre Nov 5, FREE Brown Bag It: Rossitza Jekova-Goza, violin tCathleen Westby Pavilion Nov 6-23 FREE Pictures From Lookout Mountain PAC Gallery Nov 7-9, 13-15 Master Class Liddy Doenges Theatre Nov 7, Liz Carrol John H. Williams Theatre Nov 8, Missa Solennelle and Stabat Mater Chapman Music Hall Nov 12, Forces of Nature Dance Theatre John H. Williams Theatre Nov 12, FREE Brown Bag It: Randy xY~imer, guitar Kathleen Xgestby Pavilion Nov 13, Ivory and Gold Trio John H. Williams Theatre Nov 15, Tt~e Magical Music of Disney Chapman Music Hall Nov 15, Essence of India: Bharata Natyam John H. Williams Theatre Nov 18, Akoka (Messiaen I~ASMIX): David Krakauer, Matt Haimovitz and Friends John H. Williams Theatre Nov 18-23, Available by Subscription The Rat Pack Chapman Music Hall Nov 19, Krakauer/Haimovitz Cabaret Charles E. Norman Theatre Nov 19, FREE Brown Bag It: Anam Cronan, Celtic flute and harp Kathleen Westby Pavilion Nov 20-23, Moonlight and Magnolias Liddy Doenges Theatre Nov 21-22, Not Currently On Sale (TU Forensics) Charles E. Norman ~eatre Nov 23, American Chamber Players John H. Williams Theatre ~#ww.metrostarnews.com ~÷troSTAR 15 Chardonnay The Chardonnay grape variely is a classic white wine grape grown all over the world. The original fame of Chardonnay comes fi’oru its success in the region of Frande. \Vhite Burgundy must be made from the Chardonnay grape unless the label indicates it was made from a much less well ka~own grape, Aligot& he winter holidays are on their way. And though I may talk more about the following types of wines in my next few columns, we felt they needed an introduction for this season of sharing food & wine with family & fi’iends. We’re covering Chardonnay, which is the most popular ~vhite wine and pairs well with chicken, vegetable dishes &: turkey breasts. Pinot Noii; whichpairs well with hams, breaded stuNng & dark meat turkey. Sparkling ,,vine/Cava, which pairs well with raw ftuits & nuts. Port which pairs well with Chocolate cakes, sweet potato pies & pumpkin cheesecakes. ~he following is a brief description of the grapes and wines priced around $15. The Burgundy region, located in the central part of eastern France, is the home of some of the finest Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines in the world. The Chablis area is a sub region of Burgundy that makes wonderful Chardonnay based wines from a chalkT soil. ~l]~e wines ftom the vineyard ’Le Montrachet’ and from the adjoining vineyards of Chassagne Montrachet and Puligny Montrachet are prized around the world for their fine quality. Chardonnay takes oak well, and many higher priced versions of this grape are tTpically fermented and/or aged in oak barrels. When Chardonnay is aged in oak barrels, it may pick up vanilla overtones in its aromas and flavor. Chardonnay also ages well in the bottle, though it will not age as long as many red wines. It likes slightly cooler climates (warm days/cool nights) and develops less aciditT than Sauvignon Blanc. Some producers put their Chardonnay (or some of it) through malolactic fermentation which reduces crispness and brings out a rich, buttery taste. This usually shortens the life of the wine as far as aging is concerned. Chardonnay is planted at hundreds of ~ Withr This months recipe courtesy of: Rent, Nevada P~CIPE: MEXICAN CEVICHE ~ Ib batibut fillet or sea bass fillet or red snapper fillet ~ or use a mixture of fish and ~hrimp) %6 limes (Enough Juice to cover fish) ~ cup diced fresh t6mato ! green pepper, sweer, chopped 4 tablespoons chopped parsley or chopped cilantro l/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1/2 teaspoon oregano 2l’alapefi° peppers, chopped (or more ro suit your taste) 2 tablespoons white vinegar 1 medium onion, findy chopped 2 tablespoons fi’esh cil£ntro, Chopped 1 clash %b~co sauce lettuce leaf (to line serving bowls) avocado {optional) black olives, sliced (for garnish) (optional’, Directions: Dice the fish tapproximately 1A inch, dice ifusing shrimp. Marinate fish in dae lime juice in the fridge overnight (this step cooks the fish). Pour of~most of the lime iuice. Add remaining ingredients except lettuce, avocado and olive. [!oss xvell and arrange in individual serving bowls that are lined with lettuce leaves. Then garnish with sliced avocMo and sliced black olives. wineries throughout the world including h:aly, New Zealand Spain, South Africa, Ausn-alia, Chile and Argentina. In the U S, \Vashington State and California’s Russian River and Carneros areas~produce some of the best domestic versions of this wine. problem starts with duce a and shape Pinot Noir Pinot noir grapes are grown around the world, mostly in the cooler regions, but grape is chiefl? region of France. It is widely to produce some of the fines~ ~vorld. Pinot noir has pellation famous Pinot Noir produces age veiT wel! in good flavors as they age, often 20 years after the vintage. ~urgundy~ can Wonderful Pinot Noirs come the world. It’s grown in many is known by’ different names in different countries: Some locations and names Algeria; Argentina, Australia, Austria Blauburgunder or Spatburgunder), Brazil, Canada, Czechoslovakia, England, France, Germany (Sp~tburgunder), Greece, Hun Italy (P!not Nero or Blauburgunder), New Zealand, Switzerland (Clevner, labeled "D01e" when blended with Gamay Noir), emerge ness, ted in s " includin ~: cherry; plum, strawberry. Complex flavors revealing chocolate, earthitrut~ es. Only Pinot Noir, td Meunier grapes are permitwines from the Champagne Cava used in Spain for sparlding using the same method in France’s Champagne disfamous region fi)r spar- ;. While a good Cava will rarely be with top Champagne, it wii! still be quite pleasant. Additionally, Cava is inexpensive enough to be an evmTday drink between special occasion splurges on Champagne. Cava is the name of a type of white or pink sparlding wine, produced mainly in the Pened~s region in Catalonia, Spain, 40 kin to the south west of Barcelona. Its name is U~{i{dd States, and Yugoslavia (Burgundac). . .........Continued see 3~NE page-20 Pinot is a diNcult grape to work with It’s >~ ......... hard to get a consistent, great P~not and {he ~’: :..... h6ine November 2008 More gay- characters on TV this year ..Woclmer News Service Tile number of GLBT characters on broadcast-TV networks’ scripted series has more than doubled in the new season compared with last year, says the Gay & Lesbian Mliance Against Defamation. GLBT representations account for 2.6 percent of all scripted series regular characters in the 2008-2009 broadcast television schedule, up from 1.4 percent in 2005, 1.3 percent in 2006 and 1.1 percent in 2007, GLAAD said Sept. 23. Shawn PyJ~om plays openly gay Andrew Mi,’hael Urieplays openly gay Marc l~n De Kam]) on the ABCseries Despwate St. flames on t,SeABCs~’ies Ugly Housewives. GlAADphow Bert); HRCphoto The study looked at 88 scripted comedies and dramas airing in the new season on ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and Tile CW. It found 16 GLBT characters, compared ,vith seven last season. "This dramatic increase shows how far many networks have come in deve!oping ~omplex, multilayered lesbian, gay; bisexua! a~d tran~gender characters," said GLAAD President Nell G: Giuliano. ABC is offering seven such characters this year, Fox has five, NBC has three, The CW has one, and CBS has none. The nunaber of non-contract, recurring GLBT characters also has risen this year -- from 13 to t9. "Ti~egrowing number of recurring characters is another example of the networks’ progress towards being more inclusive," Giuliano said: "As the networks gradually add characters from all backgrounds and walks of life-to primetime programming, more and more Americans are seeing their LGBT friends and neighbors reflected on tile smal! screen." On mainstreara cable networks, the number GLBT series regular characters h~s dropped to 32 from last year’s high of 40. ~ae gay networks here! and Logo have 39 series regular GLBT characters this year. For fut! details, visit http://~wcw.glaad.orgleyelontv/20081. OKC Civic Center Music Hall November Events Oct. 17 - Nov. 8 DOUBT, A PARABLE a drama by John Partick Shanley Oct. 17 - Nov. 9 The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, adapted by Harvey Mackie Oct. 31 - Nov. 1 HITCHCOCK AT THE MOVIES presented by the Oklahoma City Philaharmonic Nov. 2 UNDERTHE BIG TOP: SYMPHONY AT THE CIRCUS presented by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic Nov. 8 CARMINA BURANA presented by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic Nov. 9 Terry Fator - LI’V~ Nov. 11 - Nov. 16 THE RAT PACK-Live at tile Sands! Nov. 23 OLIVERI presented by Broadway Tonight Nov. 28 - Dec. 21 ROMEO &JULIET Nov. 28 - Dec. 20 A NICE FAMILY GATHERING a comedy by Phil Olson www.metrostarnews.com ~etroSTAR 17 More gay characters on TV this y-ear ..Wockner News Service The number of GLBT characters on broadcast-TV networks’ scripted series has more than doubled in the new season compared with last yeal; says the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation. GLBT representations account for 2.6 percent of all scripted series regular characters in the 2008-2009 broadcast television schedule, tip from 1.4 percent in 2005, 1.3 percent in 2006 and !. 1 percent in 2007, GLAAD said Sept. 23. ldm De I&mp on theABCseries Des~am &: flames on theABCseries Ug& Housewives. GLAADphoto Bet~. HRCphoto The study looked at 88 scripted comedies and dramas airing in the new season on ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC and The CW. It found !6 GLBT characters, compared with seven last season. "This dramatic increase shows how far many networks have come in developing complex, multi!ayered lesbian, gay, bisexual and tran.s.....g.. ender characters, ’ sa~" d GLAAD Pres"ident Nell G: Giuliano. ABC is offering seven such characters this year, Fox has five, NBC has three, ~ae CW has one, and CBS has none. The number of non,contract, recurring GLBT characters also ha~ risen this year -- from 13 to 19. "Thegro~ving number of recurring characters is another exanapie of the networks’ progress towards being more inclusive," Giuliano said. "As the network~s gradually add characters from all backgrounds and walks of life-to primetime programming, more and more Americans are seeing their LGBT friends and neighbors reflected on the small screen." On mainstream cable networks, the number GLBT series regular characters has dropped to 32 from last year’s high of 40. ~ae gay net-works here! and Logo have 39 series regular GLBT characters this year. For ful! details, visit http://w~v.glaad.org/eye/ontv/2008/. OKC Civic Cen er Music Hail November Events Oct. 17 - Nov. 8 DOUBT, A PARABLE a drama by John Partick Shanley Oct. 17 - Nov. 9 The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, adapted by Harvey Maclde Oct. 31 - Nov. 1 HITCHCOCK AT THE MOVIES presented by the Oldahoma City Philaharmonic Nov. 2 UNDERTHE BIG TOP: SYMPHONY AT THE CIRCUS presented by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic Nov. 8 CARMINA BURMNA presented by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic Nov. 9 Terry Fator - LIVE Nov. 11 - Nov. 16 THE RAT PACK-Live at the Sands! Nov. 23 OLI’\@Pd presented by Broadway Tonight Nov; 28 - Dec. 21 ROMEO &JULIET Nov. 28 - Dec. 20 A NICE FAMILY GATHERING a comedy by Phil Olson w"etw.metrostarnews.com ~÷troSTAR 17 by Donald Pile and Ray Williams RENO, NEVADA Biggest Little City in the /brld" Photo: Downtown Reno Nevada First off, we have to say that in all of our travels, Reno is one of the friendliest places we have been. We stayed for four nights and met dozens of gay men and lesbians. Reno is like I.as Vegas was 20 or 30 years ago, a small, friendly town that is extremely easy to navigate. During the week there are not a lot of people there, and most things are within walking distance. Sometimes they do have "special" weekends, so if you are not into major crowds then go during the week. They day we left they were having a motorcycle convention with several thousands coming in so we were glad be on our way out oftown. Being a tourist town, everyone is extremely friendly and hdpful. Tne downtown area is very safe and well lit but of course one always has to be on guard at all times. Thl-here are no gay accommodations in Reno, but the Sands Regency Casino Hotel, which is located right downtown, welcomes everybody, qlle hotel hosts several gay events, and they have great rates. We were there in the middle of the week and got a mini-suite for just $39, which is unbelievably inexpensive. It also has the largest outdoor swimming pool in Reno. Several other gay men were staying at the hotel, and we all partied pool side. They have several nice restaurants and snack shops. The hotel often has lastminute room specials on its Web site, voww. sandsregency.com. Actually, wherever you are traveling, it is a great idea to check out the hotel/motel website as they do often have special, last minute rates. Six gay bars are listed in Reno. Tne downtown bar is a complete dump and dirty, and we do mean a "dump and dirty"! %vo on the east side of town are not open when their hours say they are, and the one on the west side of town opens and closes when it wants to, so omit those four bars from your list. Isn’t it amazing that some gay bars don’t seem to have the common business acumen to be open when they post their business hours right on their front door? One bar was to open at 2 PM and we and the beer delivery man were waiting for it to open. Nae delivery man said that it was always late opening by an hour or two. We liked Carl’s Pub, 3310 S. Virginia St., which is about 30 blocks south of downtown. It is an extremely friendly bar. Everyone ~omes up and introduces themselves and makes you .feel very welcome. They are always having "special theme nights" and something is always happening. The other bar in Reno is the Patio Bar. It is clean, and the bartenders and patrons are friendly. We (as well as a few other patrons) had some issues with drink prices as the bartenders charged different patrons different prices for the same drinks. We confronted the bartenders and owners about this problem and they didfft want to talk about it. Apparently they charge locals one price and travelers another higher price, so we left and didn’t return. For those wanting a bathhouse, Steve’s Baths, 1030 x~ Second St., is open 24 hours a day. All the casino/hotels have great food specials all day long. Inexpensive breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets can be found at most all of the casinos. Luckily we found one of the finest Mexican restaurants in the country. Beto’s, a family-owned restaurant which is right across the street from the Patio Bar, and they make the finest homemade meals from scratch. Do not miss dining there. It is very inexpensive, and the food is outstanding. There are so many things t0 do and see in Reno. You really should stay right downtown so you can walk the strip and see all the sights and sounds. Reno has a lot of art galleries and museums. The Fleischmann Planetarium and the Nevada Historical Society Museum are dose to one another at 16th Street and North Virginia Street. The National Automobile Museum is at 10 S. Lake St., and the Nevada Museum ofArt is at 160 W. Liberty St. One day, hop in your auto and take a driving trip down to Carson City, the state capital which is just a 35-minute drive to the south, and it makes a great short day visit. It is a very old city, and the architecture is remarkable. Actually, you could spend the entire day there. Places of interest include the Capitol building and other government buildings. Virginia Cit); in the mountains, is a must on your return trip to Reno. It was an old mining town, and you can take tours visiting mines, schoolhouses and homes from the late 1800’S. It is located right in the mountains. Be sure and take your camera. Lake Tahoe is a short drive from Reno and is a "must see and do" thing to do when visiting Ren6. Lake Tahoe is best knmvn for its beautiful blue and clear water (99% pure) ,and is surrounded by mountains which rise more than 4,000 feet above the shore. The lake is 22 miles long, 12 miles wide; about one-third lies in Nevada, the rest in California. The water drains from Lake Tahoe through the Truckee River which is one of a few rivers that run inland to the desert rather than towards the ocean. Pyranaid Lake, the remnant of ancient oceans which used to cover Nevada’s desert is the final destination of the Truckee River. Lake Tahoe is the third deepest lake in North America as it has all average depth of 989 feet but the deepest point is about 1,645 feet. The surface ~vater (12 feet) can warm to 68 F in summer, allowing swimming, while depths below 700 feet remain a constant 39 E Perhaps this is why Lake Tahoe is comfortable through the summer despite its proximity to the desert. Annual snowfall averages 40 feet, with snow pack averaging 20 feet which explains why downhill and cross-country skiing are very popular in the winter. Summer activities include hiking, white water rafting, beach picnics and other water activities. There are many ski and summer resorts as well as state park locations to choose from. Hevation at the lake is 6,229 feet Tney, of course, have gaming everywhere, even in the small towns and villages in Nevada. By the way, we just love how they have changed the name from gambling to gaming. Guess they want u~to forget that we are losing our money and think instead that we are participating in a game, to make it more fun! Uuless your winning money then LOSING money is Not fun! Between the inexpensive hotels, food and entertainment, Reno is a very good choice for a wonderful traveling experience. Before going to Reno, check out renodean.com for a complete listing of things to see and do there for the gay traveler. Dean is a ~vonderfu! guy, and he is more than glad to help you with suggestions. Another good website to check out is http:/lwww.visitrenotahoe. com/. You can have them send you a free booklet with a listing of everything to see and do there. Always remember to have fun when traveling, meet new people and talk to everyone! EUR£KA SPRINGS Fall Diversity Weekend 10/31 - 11/02 2008 EVENTS SCHEDULE: FRIDAY 10/31/08 Eureka Springs Limousine will provide rides for the weekend with wristbandfor $20. Mixer at Marquee’s at 7 - 9 PM. Karaoke with Tiny and Lady A with Costume Contest at Henri’s 9 PM. Ashley McBryde at Jack’s Place 9 PM. Costume Contest at Tiki Torch 9 PM. Costume Contest at Eureka Live 9 PM. Diversity Band at Chelsea’s 9 PM. Miranda Ray at the Lumberyard 10 PM. After Hours Breakfast at Harp’s 57. 11 PM -3AM SATURDAY 11/01/08 "Name that Tune" with Sandy at Smokehouse Cafe 8 - 11:30 AM. Diversity Bikers "Show N’ Shine" and "Hall N’ Back" Poker Run, Halloween Theme. Planner’s Hill Parking Lot 10 AM. Walking Tour starting at Basin Park. 10 AM. PDA (Public Display ofA_ffection) Basin Park 12 Noon. Matinee’ Diversity Drag Show with Caribou Barbie at Tiki Torch 2 PM with encore at 10 PM. Rocky Horror Picture Show Part/at the Gem (Basement of the Aud). Doors open at 6:30 PM. Karaoke with Tiny and Lady A at Henri’s 9 PM. Ashley McBryde at Jack’s Place 9 PM. Kiss Tribute Band (Male Illusionist) at the Lumberyard 7 PM. Drag Show with Alexis LaRue at the Lumberyard 8 PM. Miranda Ray and the Backwoods Divas at Eureka Live 10 PM. After Hours Breakfast at New Delhi Deli from 9 PM to 3 AM. After Hours Breakfast at Harp’s 57. 11 PM -3AM For more informations visit Diversity Pride Events www.diversitypride.cora or www. eurekapride.com 18 November 2008 derived from the Catalan word for cellar. There are a small number of areas in Spain outside Catalonia that also produce Cava. Cava is produced in varying levels of dryness of the wine which are: brut nature, brut (extra dry), seco (dry), semiseco (medium) and dulce (sweet). Under Spanish Denominaci6n de Origen laws, Cava can be produced in six wine regions and must be made according to the Traditional Method with second fermentation in the bottle and uses a selection of the grapes macabeo, parellada, xarelolo, Chardonnay, Pinot noir, and Subirat. Port Tawny ports are wines made from red grapes that are aged in wooden barrels, exposing them to gradual oxidation and evaporation. As a restflt, they gradually mellow to a golden-brown color. The exposure to wood imparts "nutty" flavors to the wine, which is blended to match the house style. Ta.wn~ ports are sweet or medium dry and typicany drunk as a dessert wine. When a Port is described as Tawny, without an indication of age, it is a basic blend of wood aged port that has spent at least seven years in barrels. Above this is Tawny with an indication of age which represents a blend of sev,e,ral vintages, with the averse years "in wood stated on the label. TiLe omcial categories are 10, 20, 30 and over 40 years. For each category, the average age of the various vintage is at least that of the given category. It is also possible to produce an aged white t~ort in the manner of a tawny, with a number of shippers now marketing 10 year old White Ports. And as always, I say go to your favorite wine shop, ask questions and purchase a bottle or two. Share some food & wine with friends and check this out for yourself. qSis writer also bar tends a~d hosts wine & food events known in town as the bitter glrl E-Mail- KylesBnB@aol.com by Jack Fertig November 2008 "Keep it p~atonic, Aquarius!" Venus is in Sagittarius, wanting to play, but she’s triggering an opposition between Saturn and Uranus. Harness that wild, fun energy to balance responsibility and inspiration. ARIES (March 20 -Apri~ 19): Let your eye and ear wander to new artistic perspectives. Challenge yourself to appreciate things you’d normally avoid. The stimulation will help you to understand your place in the world better, to mend old friendships and make new ones. TAURUS (April 20 -May 20): Too much self-criticism is blocking the creative edge you need to realize your goals. Sexual adventure - yes, something entirely new! - will help you over that hump. The stars suggest exploring domination fantasies. If you have a better idea, follow your own dreams. GEMIN! (May 21 - June 20): Your political skills and foresight are especially sharp now. Look at any conflict, not as a logical argument, but as a dramatic scene to be resolved. The best answers will c0me way0~ of left field. GANGER (June 21 = July 22): New approaches at work are worth trying, if only experimentally. Whether they work or not, your adaptability and thoughtful acceptance of criticism is what really counts. Bite your tongue and challenge your brain: Ambitious rivals may prove more helpful than well-meaning friends. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 20): Being playful, charming, outspoken, and fun certainly has its place, but it also makes you the target of annoyed persons at home and at work. That offers a creative challenge to focus and grow; but find a place to have your fun, too! CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19): Don’t get caught up in debates. Just listen to new ideas and arguments against them. If they contradict deeply held beliefs, accept the challenge quietly, and see where you have room to grow. Allow yourself an impulse buy for your home. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): A friend who wants "benefits" risks spoiling a good thing. Keep it platonic. Discuss the possibilities so your pal can realize what a disaster it would be in the long run. In the end, it should be good for a laugh. PISCES (February 19 - March 19): Too much fun at work can make your partner feel neglected. What really counts in your career? What satisfactions does it offer that you don’t find in love? Reevaluate your priorities, and be frank with your baby about them. LEO (July 23 o August 22): Your naturally playful eroticism can get a little out of hand, leading to rude surprises. Have a very deep heart-to-heart with your partner about sex, but also about whatever philosophical or religious differences you may have. VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Take your partner Or roommate windowshopping for some exotic house decor. No need to buy; just browsing will help clarify domestic problems. A new approach to housework is also helpful, and remaining problems might be best resolved in the bedroom. LIB~ (September 23 - October 22): Life is stressful lately. Find a good friend and let it all out, even if it seems like a long, rambling, nonsensical torrent. That’s what good friends are for. Playful competition in some intellectually stimulating game also offers a sense of balance. SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): Any efforts to deal with finances now can cause more frustration than they would alleviate. Find cheap ways to enjoy the company of your friends. Spiritual lessons from childhood will help you deal with competition at work. METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES Rev Steve T. Urie Spidt0fChdst MCC 2902 E 20~ S~eet J0plin, M0~04 417-52~8480 W0mhip Saturdays at 10:00AM C0mmuni#! Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM MCC 0fthe Living Spring 17 Elk S~t Eureka Slxings, AR 72632 47~253-9337 W0~hip Sundays at 6:00 PM Have a GOd filled and BleSSed Day! www.metrostarnews.com ~÷troSTAR 21 out calls 5) K~NG0~ MASSAGE Great T0uch Man to Man Fult Bo~{y Massage 2 hands or 4 hands available Now Hiring Male & Female Keller Williams Realty Chuck Breckenridge Whether buying or selling I’ll work hard for you. (2437} Oklahoma’s HIV!STD Hotiine PROTECT YOURSELF PROTECT YOUR Community for People ~iving A 50I c (3) Non Peofit Organization Our House, Too offers a variety of NWArkansas GLBT Community- Center "Linldng Together as One" For more information: 888-391-9222 WWW.NWAGLBTCC.ORG IN MEMORIAM MATTHEWARON VH-IITE Tulsa a~ {9!8) 812.7~ activities for people who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves. We invite anyone who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-nlail ourhousetoo9865@sbcglobal.net Matthew passed from dais life at the OU Medical Center at 5:30 a.m. September 12 after losing a battle with cancer. He was known to his many fi’iends as a happy caring person, truly shown by his many years workingas a nurse her~ in Oklahoma where his good nature touched countless lives. Born March 10, 1966 in Grenta, Virginia, he left home at age t6 as his family could not accept him as agay man, and he traveled the kountry before settling in Oklahoma, working as a jack of all trades. His funeral service was held at Epworth United Methodist Church October 20. He leaves behind a legacy of many fi’iends. [] ~ WWW.METROSTARNEWS.COM 22 November 2008 HABANA INN 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma Cit); OK 405-528-2221 wv~,v.habanainn.com Support those who support us. Their ads allow us to distribute your community news FREE to you. OUR HOUSE, TOO ~=l=] Tulsa, OK 74127 ~ KELLY KIRBY, CPA 4815 S. HARVARD, SUITE 424 Tulsa, OK * 918-747-5466 Certified Public Accountant OKC MORTUARY 2415-C N. WALNUT AVE. Oklahoma City, OK 800-913-1310 ANGLES 2117 NV¢" 39th St. Oklahoma City, OK ;m~w.anglesclub.com BAMBOO LOUNGE 7204 E. PINE Tulsa, OK 918-836-8700 v~ww.bambooloungetulsa.com CLUB 209 209 N. BOULDER Tulsa, OK 918-584-9944 CLUB MAJESTIC 124 N. BOSTON Tulsa, OK 918-584-9494 w~v.clubmajestictulsa.com FINISHLINE 2200 ~-~W 39TH EXPI~SSWAY Oldahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE COPA 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oldahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 wvw.habanainn.com THE LEDO 2200 ~,PvV 39TH EXPRESS\VAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 ww~v.habanainn.com HOPE TESTING CLINIC 3540 E. 31st Tulsa, OK 800-535-2437 Oklahoma’s HIV/STD Hotline SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC 2902 E. 20TH STREET, Joplin, MO * 479-529-8480 Service Saturday 9:30 AM MCC of the LIVING SPRING 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays 6pro MCC UNITED 1623 N. Maplewood, Tulsa, OK 918-838-1715 v~wamcctulsa.org OPENAI~MS YOUTH PROJECT 2015 -B S. L~ewood Tulsa, OK 74112 918-838-7104 www. openarmsproject.org KING OF MASSAGE In or Out Calls Oklahoma City, OK 405-314-3898 JUDY G. PHOTO’S Tulsa, OK judygphotos@sbcglobal.net 918-743-8636 CENTURY 21 GOLD CASTLE 3627 NV$ EXPRESS\rAY Oldahoma City, OK 73112 405-840-2106 www.c2 lgoldcasde.com CHUCK BRECKENRIDGE Keller Williams Realty Tulsa, OK 918-706-1887 GAY BRADY HEIGHTS-Tulsa New and Historic Homes for Sale and Rent For Info: www.gaybradyheightstulsa.com 21 EAST TOWNHOMES 21ST & MAIN Tulsa, OK 918-582-4673 or 918-607-1177 www.21East.us GUSHER’S RESTAURANT 2200 NV¢- 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 Located inside Habana Inn TOM & JERRYS 1501 N.W. 23RD Oklahoma City, OK 405-524-9100 A $ B~ A F i ¢ R D O ODOI FE AT OD LE H L DE A N R ANID ~ L DA SIS A T ~y ¢ T Y$ A LE OS T E N Y L ~G E RA AR YN U NN B ~ ¢O N O B TR RH www.metrostarnews.com NetroSTAR 23 We believe tha~ hornosexua~i~ is no~ a g÷netic trait but a chosen ~ifes~y~e. We oppose the portraya~ of hornosexua~ or promiscuous behavior ~n a positive ~igh~ ~n We oppose ~he erosion of our military read~ness ~h~o~gh openly practicing homosexuals serving ~n ~he m~ary We oppose ~he ~romo~on o~ homosex~a~, ~h~ e~m~na~on o~ ~aws aga~ns~ sodomy, ~nd ~he granting o~ m~nor~y pro~ec~on or ~pec~a~ s~a~s ~o any person based upon sex~a~ preference or ~es~e choice. "We support the ful~ inclusion of a~l families, including same-sex coupbs, in ~he ~ife of our nation,and support equa~ responsibility, benefits, and protections. We wi~ enact a comprehensive bipartisan employment non-discrimination act. We oppose the Defense of Marriage Ac~ and a~! a~ernpts to use ~his issue to divide (Page 52, 2008 DNC P~afforrn) + +.oksPonewal+.org Taken from current platforms of the Republican and Democratic parties of Oklahoma. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2008] Metro Star Magazine, November 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 11 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource November 01, 2008 Subject The topic of the resource Politics, education, and social conversation over LGBTQ+ topics Description An account of the resource The Metro Star’s first issue began in August of 2008. Before this issue was Ozarks Pride (2004), The Ozark’s Star (2004), and The Star (2005). This magazine discusses topics of AIDs, education, politics, local and national civil rights of the LGBT community, and advice for relationships and places to visit. This collection is PDF searchable. Physical copies are also available to be seen at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center with permission. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Star Media, Ltd; Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Star Media, Ltd Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Greg Steele James Nimmo Joey D. Victor Gorin Rex Wockner Susan A. Muscari Vernon Britt Romeo San Vicente Andrew Collins Donald Pile Ronald Blake Ray Williams Jack Fertig Devre Jackson Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Image PDF Online text Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource magazine Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Southwest Missouri West Arkansas Southeast Kansas Eastern Oklahoma The United States of America (50 states) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://history.okeq.org/collections/show/19 Relation A related resource The Metro Magazine, September 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 9 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/201 The Metro Star Magazine, December 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 12 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/199 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context https://history.okeq.org/items/show/200 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/e630b22f0547c185dc6217b0f9f80c72.jpg 78a2addce6b305037752c6c1175f8681 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/3d425fe4b36394781ccc0dc0f72c783a.pdf 8d2ecd86c3fdc71351621ce90983b66a PDF Text Text Exclusive Interview with Ron Marlett Democratic Candidate for State Rep. Dist. 84 against Sally Kern. See Page-3 WWW.METROSTARNEWS.COM GLBTQYou h Center Struck by "WE DELIVER DIVERSITY" 2008 STATE FAIR Oklahoma’s hate-crimes law makes it a crime to "intimidate or harass another person because of the person’s race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin or disability" and adds punishment beyond what would be imposed for the underlying crime, such ,as assault or vandalism. Oklahoma is one of 17 states whose hate-crimes laws don’t include protections for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people who are targeted because of their sexual orientation or identity. The 2006 FBI Hate Crime Statistics show an 18% increase in hate crimes against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. GLBT people now make up 16% of hate crimes in the United States. "Ilae National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs (NCAVP) reports a recent rash of at least 13 brutal and violent hate crimes that have occurred throughout the country on the heels of the murder of 15 year-old Lawrence King in Los Angeles and the brutal beating ofDuannaJohnson, both in February of 2008. NCAVP reports that these hate crimes may indicate a frightening trend of increases in both the n~ber ~nd SeV~r-iW of anti-LGBT Violence: GLBTQ youth are particularly vulnerable to harassment and depression. By providing a safe environment to be themselves, Openarms believes it allows the youth an opportunity to grow and mature into the young adults they are meant to be, without the fear o£jndgm~, ~p~narms Youth Project is governed by the y0uth it serves for progtamming as well as an adult Board of Directors and financial mana ReC~tly at the home of Robert S~6der and his p~er in east Tulsa near 21St and Garnett, was spray-paintedwith m~ssages "I’ll be back" and "Gay lviust G6". There Were damages 0n two different occasions including a car that was parked in the driveway that ~ ~pray-painted and burned. which they will not accomplish] ] mofi~ away from th~ pro~anS vulnerable population. This latest act of defiance will literally[ take food from their mouths as the Thursday night dinner is one of the largest group gatherings at the youth center. Each Thursday as many as fifty youths arrive for a warm meal and social time together. This meal, fimded by community supporters, costs Openarms over $100.00 per week and is a program the youth and adult board are dedicated to continuing weekly. the money needed to install an updated security system which the police say is the only way they can address the situation. This system will place cameras around the perimeter of the building that will begin recording when triggered by movement. This updated system will allow Openarms to provide authorities with photographs of the perpetrators should they return. This system will cost approximately $4,000 and the money must be raised in addition to Openarms regular operating budget to prevent the downsizing of programming at the center. You may visit their website at www.openarmsproject.org or phone 918-838-7104 for additional information. Openarms Youth Project is a fully qualified 501c3 non-profit corporation. OKLAHOMA MUST HAVE GLBT INCLUSION IN HATE CRIMES LAW By Chaz Ward TULSA, OK (PR) __ In the early morning hours of August 12th, Openarms "ibuth Project ~vas yet again su’uck by vandals. An unidentified individual broke into the facility by prying the fence loose from its post and kicking down a secondary gate to enter the patio area of the youth center. Upon entry, they overturned trash cans on the patio and threw a large rock through the window of the double doors used to access the patio. The invasion immediately triggered the alarm system and the vandals fled the scene. This is the most recent of four acts of property damage directed at Openarms Youth Project, the only center in the Tulsa area serving the GLBTQyouth ages 14-21. q-he Board of Directors and volunteers are determined to raise SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 TULSA, OK You know fall is near when you can smell the aromas and take in the sounds of Oklahoma’s two great state fair’s. Now bigger and better both the Oklahoma State Fair in Oklahoma City and the Tulsa State Fair will lure you in with new entertainment, mountains of corn dogs, indian tacos and rivers of cold beer. The 2008 Oklahoma State Fair® LIVE! tickets went on sale July 12. Gate admission tickets are free for children 5 and undeh $5 for children (ages 6-11), $8 for adults (12 and older), q-his year’s fair opens ~lursday, September 11 and runs through Sunday, September 21 at State Fair Park, Oklahoma City. ....................... Continued see STATE FAIR Page-12 We must not forget the Oklahoma City, October 26, 2007 brutal murder of Steve Domer (Photo) who was killed because he was ~. Tortured and murdered by Darrell Madden a member of the United Aryan Brotherhood, a white supremacist group. It was speculated that Mr. Domer’s murder may have been a gang rite of passage. The murder garnered national attention, somewhat reminiscent of the murder of Matthew Shepard in Laramie, Wyoming in 1998. Darrell Madden could not be charged with a hate crime because Federal and Oklahoma hate crimes laws do not cover sexual orientation. In the 2008 Oklahoma legislative session, five bills were introduced pertaining to hate crime laws but all of them failed. The voice of the GLBT community has not been heard at the State Capitol. Activists, advocacy groups and some legislators have failed to get the attention of those elected officials who believe sexual orientation inclusion in our hate crimes law is not needed. We have to consistently voice our outrage to those who remain an obstacle in our fight for equality. ............... Continued See HATE CRIMES Page-4 �2 Met~oS~’AR September 2008 �Fascism Can Not Be Tolerated Oklahoma An Interview With Ron Marlett by Victor Gorh-~ PSAL~¥h "Let the wordsj~om my mouth and the meditations ofmy heart be a blessing to God’~ "It ~ a shame that politicians can’tpractice what this Psalm says. 3d.y opponent has a history ofusing character assawsination, whisper campaigns, and misinfo~vnation. I refi,se to use those tactics, but rather want tofollow that Psalm’; Ron 3~[arlett. Born in Binger, Oklahoma, Ron Marlett was raised in Union City until he graduated from Union City High School in 1967. He went on to get his degree in social work and began working for Oklahomas Department of Human Services, later becoming a licensed clinical social worker. He met his wife Liz in 1974 While attending OU, and they wi]] proudly celebrate their 25th Anniversary this year. Photo: Ron d~Lm’lett Democrafc Candidatefor State Rep. Dist. 84 against SalO, Kern. Currently employed with Community Pathways Unlimited, he counsels the elderly and disabled in nursing homes across the state. Today he faces the trials and tribulations that come with running for office, ~d does so ~vith pride and optimism. VICTOR: This is sure to be a formidable race. Xgrhat inspired you to run against Sally Kern? I received a contribution from a gay man living in Latvia, and he said that in today’s society no candidate would ever openly attack blacks using the n word, or refer to women or other ethnic groups in a similar way. Yet gays are considered fair game, and with some people this tactic can get you votes. This is wrong and has to be challenged. VICTOR: What you do think is the purpose of this scapegoating ? RON MARLETT: To serve as a distraction from the degradation of freedom and equality, and economic hardship. RON MARLETT: I have always been suspicious of extremism on the left or the right, as both can rob us 0f0ur fre~d6nls~ Over the years ................... I read a wonderfiil book called "American Fascists" by Chris Hedges. I was reading that when Sally’s youtube conunents came out. W’hen I heard the comments she made it dawned on me that she had taken positions also taken by fascists. Xhe minute I heard it I decided, ’Tin got to run. This cannot go unchallenged." VICTOR: How did your family feel about that ? RON MARLETT: At first they were shocked, they are now su p ortive ¯ I don t think anyone who runs for o~ce for the first time has any sense of what demands it ~vill make on your life. AA McA~-ey (State Representative District 88) told me it would the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life. VICTOR: Are you convinced now that he’s right? RON MARLETT: I’m convinced yes. I also think families of first time candidates have no idea of what is involved, what sacrifices have to be made. VICTOR: Do you still think it is worth it? RON MARLETT: I have no doubt whatsoever. It is worth it because if this extremism is not stood up to and challenged America is going m slip further and further towards a fascisQtyl-e dictatorship. Naomi ~31fe, in her book The End of America;’ lists ten steps that have to be taken to move from democracy to dictatorship, and the Bush administration has accomplished at least hdfofthose. As in Nazi Germany anytime a group is a scapegoat, marginalized, persecutedandin the worst Cme exterminated, they move on to another scapegoat. ww~v.metrostarnews.com VICTOR: Other than your support for GLBT equality, do you differ fromMrs. Kern in other ar*e~? .. RON MARLETT: Without seems to have a fundamental misunderstandhag of the Constitution, and the separation Of Church and State. For a legislator to come out and declare themselves a "warrior for Judeo Christianprinciples" is a clear threat to that. The job of government is to protect the rights of all religions, to see to it that minorities~ren’t persecuted. VICTOR: And on economic issues ? RON MARLETT: I drastically disagree with her in that area as well. She is so tied into the "trickle dmvn" theory of economics. She has no goal, no dreaan or vision for anything to create opportunities for working people to achieve their dreams. VICTOR: I remember when she opposed raising minimum wage when it was $5.15 an hour, claiming that those on minimum wage needed to better budget their money, RON MARLETT: V/ell I would challenge her to forfeit all of her salary in excess of what she would earn .on minimum wage and then get back with us and let us know how well it works. I see people worldng minimum wage jobs that have to Work mor~ than one job]She is woefully out of touch with these issues~ She further demonstrated that when she voted to remove the sales tax from gold and precious metals while retaining it on groceries. VICTOR: You also grew up in a union household. Can you tell us about that ? ............. Continued see MARLETT Page-4 NetroSTAR 3 �RON MARLETT: My father worked as a lineman for Caddo Electric Coop near Binger Oklahoma. He climbed utility poles, working in close contact with 7200 volt wires, sometimes during thunderstorms and made about $1.65 an hour. No matter how well we tried to budget, my family scraped by month by month. When that coop was’successfully unionized by their employees, wages went up, 0aad we began to live more comfortably and were able to attain the American dream, which would not have happened otherwise. Despite what opponents claimed, the Coop continued to operate and rates did not dramatically increase. I feel that organized labor today could play a major part in making the lives of working people better. VICTOR: So despite the promises made, do you feel that Oklahoma benefited when Right to Work ~vas passed in 2001 ? Governor Keating claimed we’d get a $75 a week raise. RON MARLETT: They also promised massive manufacturing jobs I have yet to see. I have seen companies leave our state including GM, Delta Faucet and Bridgestone Tires. Clearly, Right to ~Zork was wrong. VICTOR: You are a strong supporter of public education. Howdo you differ from your opponent in that area? RON MARLETT: I’m certain Ms. Kern would like to bring public education to a screeching halt. I understand that she was once a teacher h-~ Oklahonaa City, but she has betrayed her fellow teachers by accusing them of attempting to seduce young children into the homosexual lifestyle, and she has likewise accused librarians. She would support providing vouchers to send their ch~ldre~ to l~rivate religious schools. As for myself, you couldn’t find a stronger supporter of public education. No system is perfect, all systems can improve, however this system has worked well. I am a product of public education. VICTOR: How about the enviromnent ? RON MARLETT: I believe we have a moral responsibility to care for the earth and the environment. Long term use of fossil fuels will .harm us more than help us. I would support tax credits for home insulation, hybrio cars, or energy efficient major appliances. I would favor rewarding positive changes. VICTOR: Getting back to your campaign, it has garnered national and international attention. Also it represents no.t iust a state house race, but two vasdy different icteologies. Local Artist Gives Back By Judy Gabbard RON MARLETT: I may get more e-mails than other candidates, and I doubt if any other candidate has gotten a contribution from Latvia. But even with this higher profile, you face the same pressures and do the same things, you go tO fund-raisers, you meet people, and knock doors. VICTOR: How has the door knocking gone so far ? RON MARLETT: With door knocking Independent and Democratic households, I’ve only had 2 people state that they would vote for nay opponent. The Democrats are in a slight majority in nay district, and my response from Independents has been extremely encouraging. I have had Republicans assure me they would vote t’or me, and there are even 2 Republican voters displaying my yard signs. I am also encouraged by the number of young voters and/or ne~v voters. Photo: Dennis Olson VICTOR: Sally Kern was unopposed in 2006, and in 2004 was elected by a wide mar~in over a Democratic opponent. Do you mink there have be~n changes in the district and in America that wil! help influence voters to elect you? Dennis Olson a medal winning gymnast and sociology major has made his mark among artists and writers. Dennis attended San Jose State University on a gymnastic scholarship and received a degree from UCLA in Sociology. He has proved his talent without formal training in the arts. A Native American residing in Oklahoma City he has gained international attention through his art shows in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Indianapolis and Germany. RON MARLETT: I think things have changed, including a great increase in presidential power that concerns both conservatives and liberals. I think things have gotten worse for all Americans, economically and politicall~; mad it can’t be allowed tO continue. _~ definition of insanity is tocontinue to do what didn’t work in the first place, and to expect a different result. W’e need different ways of making things work. Dennis donates proceeds from sales of his art and poetry back to the community and to advocacy organizations. Tulsa’s Equality Center is among the many recipients. Dennis has used his talent to improve relationships with our con~nunity by building bridges 3f tini{y: Hi~ talents in sociology and gymnastics has gained Olson respect around the world but he has not stop there. He plans to continue to use art and writing in his pursuit of diversity and equality. On August 30 there will be a Voter Registration Drive & Concert at Elderline Park in Bethany. We hope to see of lot of hopeful voters there. I think the biggest difference between me and nay opponent is that I ~vill fight for everyone’s ffeedora. She has already made it clear in her own words that not all religions or lifestyles are equal. IfI am elected to represent District 84, Ihope this will send a message not only to our state but also to our nation that the pendulum needs to swing the other way, and that our freedorns and equality are important. This could also show candidates that you can proudly take this stand and win. I appeal to the GLBT community and all progressives who want a better Oklahoma, I need money and volunteers. VICTOR: Well I hope you get them, and ~ve wish you all the luck in the world, because there is a lot at stake here. Thanks for running. NOTE: To contact Ron 3darleit see back cover advertiseraent. Oklahomans for Equality Executive Director, Freddie Owens and his organization believe that the law needs to be revised to include GLBT people and to increase the punishment by changing a first-time offense from a misdemeanor to a felony. "Passing legislation to have a hate-crimes law to inclt[de ~exual orientation is something that the organization has been working on for years," Owens said. "We are really going to beef up our advocacy efforts at thest~ite and local level. We are positioning ourselves to be the premier organization in the state of Oklahoma that deals specifically with these issues." It is our right and obligation to speak out. The tirades of people such as Sally Kern and Brent Rinehart only fuel hatred toward the GLBT community. \Vho will be next? You, a family member, or your next door neighbor? We are all vulnerable and potential targets t’or these hateful acts. o oMCC United ~~ ~ A Metropolitan Community Church 4 Sunday Services @ 11:00 AM 1623 N. Maplewood Tulsa, OK 91.8-838-171.5 At the recent OkEq public forum on hate crimes, Robert Stotle~ the East Ttdsan who was vandalized said. "We are not asking for special privileges, but equality." www.mcctulsa.org September 2008 �From ~0.95 AskAbo~ Our Suites �Wockner wire service California ruling changed more than marriage law that efforts to politically exploit anti:gay bias no longer work. xare have a chance here in California to deal a crushing defeat to the anti-gay forces that have caused incalculable damage to our community for years. This is our opportunity to make a difference that will go down in history books as a critical turning point." Ellen, Portia get married Minter also talked with Nle BottomLine about his 1996 sex-change operation. "I have been struck by how much more immediate ’unearned’ credibility and respect I get as a completely average-looking man than I did as a visibly masculine-appearing woman," Minter said. "The difference is stark -- whether it is service in a restaurant or on a plane, or appearing m court. Gay man likely to be elected to Congress Talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, 50, and actress Portia de Rossi, 35, got married Aug. 16 at their home in Beverly Hills. Shannon Minter, legal director ofthe National Center for Lesbian Rights and lead lawy~’for the successfid gay side in the Calij$rnia same-sex marriage case Photo by Rex l~Vockner They are the biggest names to tie the knot since the California Supreme Court ruling legalizing same-sex marriage took effect on June 16. The California Supreme Court’s May ruling legalizing same-sex marriage did much more than that. says Shannon Minter. legal director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights and lead lawyer for the successful gay side in the California nlarriage case. In an Aug. 2 interview with Los Angdes journalist Karen Ocamb, Minter said: "The fun&mental-right-to-marry part of the holding was extremely significant, but the court’s holding that sexual orientation is a suspect classification was shinning-- completely unprecedented. I think it will forever change the legal landscape for LGBT people in the country; it’s going to have a huge impact on courts in other states and, ultimately, on the federal courts. We are now living in a different legal world because of what the court did2 The court’s determination rneans that any discrimination based on sexual orientation is constitutionally subject to the strictest level ofscrutiW by California courts, which makes it dramatically harder for aW level of government to defend itsdfin aW arena where gays, lesbians and bisexuals are not treated the same as heterosexuals. A government now has to prow it has a specific "compelling interest" -- rather than a mere "rational basis" -- when it treats GLB people differently in any way. hi another interview; with the Palm Springs gay" magazine The BottomLine on Aug. 1, Minter said that if the California ballot measure to amend the state constitution to re-ban saanesex marriage fails in November, it will be a "crushing defeat" for gays’ opponents. "If we defeat this proposition, as I bdieve we will, that victory will resonate across the country," he said. "Not only will marriage in California be secure, but we will have demonstrated (3 NetroSTAR Reports said 19 people attended the ceremony, including both women’s mothers. De Rossi’s mother came from Australia for the wedding. DeGeneres wore white pants and a white vest. De Rossi wore a big pink dress. DeGeneres had announced their engagement on her TV show the day after die Supreme Court’s May 15 ruling. Jared Polis of Colorado is considered a shoo-in to become the sixth openly gay person elected to the U.S. Congress, and thefirst open, gay man elected to Congress as a nonincumbent. Campaign photo An openly gay man won the Democratic primary in Colorado’s 2nd Congressional District Aug. 12 and is considered a shoo-in to win the general election in November. If he does, Jared Polis, 33, will become the first openly gay man elected to Congress who was out when elected for the first time. U.S. Rep. Tammy Bal&vin, D-Wis., holds the female distinction in that regard. "At the Millennium March on Washington in 2000, Congressxvoman Tanamy Baldwin told hundreds of thousands of LGBT people gathered on the National Mall, ’If you dream of a world in which there are more openly gay elected officials, then rtm for office ... and you will live in such ~ world,’" said Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund President Chuck Wolfe. "I thought of that quote dlis evening when I learned that Rep. Baldwin and Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.) will be joined by another openly gay colleague in the United States House of Representatives." ........... Continued see POLIS Page-7 "Yesterday, if you haven’t heard, the California Supreme Court overturned a ban on gay marnage;’ she said. "So I would like to say right now for die first time, I am annou~acing I aan getting married .... I’m so excited. If I’m this emotional now just saying it, I can’t imagine how that’s gonna be, but it’s something dlat I’ve, of course, vce’ve ~vanted to do, and we want it to be legal and we’re just very, very excited:’ In a September 2005 interview with The Advocate, de Rossi said: "I ran into Ellen (again) at a photo shoot about a year ago and she took my breath away. That had never happened to me in my life, where I saw somebody and (experienced) all of those things you hear about in songs and read about in poetry. My knees were weak. It was amazing. And it ~vas very hard for me to get her out of my mind after that. And then when I saw her again that night (at the VH1 awards show) we started talking and that’s that. W-e just were kind of supposed to be together. ~lat’s my side of the story. I really, really hated all the pain I put (then girlfriend) Francesca (Gregorini) through, and I really didn’t want to hurt her. But I just couldn’t ignore the feelings I had for Ellen: Directory of Local Animal Shelters Tulsa Shelter Broken Arrow OKC Muskogee Stillwater Coweta Siloam Springs Claremore Sand Springs Jenks Owasso Sapulpa Norman Collinsville 918-669-6299 918-259-8311 405 297 3104 918 686 7297 405 372 0334 918-486 2137 479 524 6535 918 341 1260 918 246 2543 918 299 6311 918-272-4965 918 227 2722 405 321 6725 918 371 1000 Courtesy ofwww.labrescue.net September 2008 �Dallas Convention & Visitors Bureau annonces "Win a Trip to Dallas" sweepstakes winner DALLAS, TX (PRAug. 5th) __ The Dallas Convention & Visitors Bureau (DCVB) announced today the winner of its "Win a Trip to Dallas" sweepstakes. Yvette Roper ofJamaica , NY was selected to receive a vacation package to Dallas. The promotion is part of a new integrated marketing communications campaign that targets the lesbian, ga~; bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. The campaign launched in April at a Dallas press tour that included members of the domestic and international gay press. Ms. Roper will receive two roundtrip American Airlines tickets to Dallas and a two-day, threenight stay at the Crmvne Plaza Hotel Dallas Market Center. In addition, Roper xviLl receive two tickets to attend Gay Day at Six Flags Over Texas, compliments of the Dallas Voice. A gift basket will await the winner at the hotel, complete with goodies to make their Dallas visit memorable. Ms. Roper and a guest will travel to Dallas in September and experience Dallas Pride fi~sthand. 2-he city celebrates 25 years of Ptide wheu the Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade marches through the Oak Lawn neighborhood on September 21, 2008. "TMs promotion is part ofour ’Try Dallas on for Size’ campaign;’ said Phillip Jones, president & CEO of the DCVB." Dallas is a diverse and vibrant city, with more than $12 billion in development that adds additional dining, shopping, cultural and entertainment options every year. September weather is perfect for ,vatching one of the largest pride parades in the nation, with participants that include city officials, community leaders and thousands of supporters. We look forward to showcasing our city’s ’Live Large. Think Big’ way of life." For more information on Dallas Pride, or to discover more about how Dallas reaches out to the LGBT community, visit wv~wc.glbtdallas. US Border Agency Says It Can Seize Laptops Agam Shah, IDG News Service Travelers beware: U.S. agents now have the authority to seize and retain laptops indefinitely, according to a new policy detailed in documents issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The DHS document, issued July 16, appears to state publicly a policy that has already existed. Laptops and electronic devices have been subject to search in the past, and travelers have reported not getting their devices back. The policy has drawn strong criticism from lawmakers and nonprofit groups, who charged that the searches were invasive and a violation of an individual’s privacy rights. Computers contain a vast amount of private information about family, finances and health, which could be easily copied and stored in government databases, the Hectronic Frontier Foundation has complained. ~e policy document states that being able to examine documents and electronic devices is. crucial for "detecting information concerning terrorism, narcotics smuggling.., contraband including child pornography, and.., other import or export control laws." The new DHS policies allow customs agents to analyze the contents oflaptops without any suspicion of~vrongdoing, U.S. Senator Russ Feingold said in a statement. "The policies that have been disclosed are truly alarming;’ Feingold wrote. The policy could blur the distinction between "search" and ’seizure; which could also allow DHS officials to steal personal documents from laptops it has retained, Feingold wrote. -he American Family Association called a boycott of McDonald’s The organization is upset that the fast-food giant has joined the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, given it mone); and put one of its executives on the group’s board. Wolfe called Polis’ likely win in the heavily Democratic district an important gay milestone. "It sends an unmistakable signal that voters are willing to consider gay people as leaders at the highest level of government, and brings us closer to the kanerican ideal of a truly representative government," he said. In his victory speech, Polis introduced his partner, made reference to being gay, and said, "I always wo}ried that would get in the way (of) giving back and contributing to our society:’ A millionaire who made his money in online ventures, Polis spent $5 million of his mvn funds in the primary campaign. Agents with U.S. Customs and Border Protection will also be allowed to translate and share documents with other government agencies. The AF,A says its nearly 3 million supporters dont want to sp,e,n~t money at establishments that actively promote the homosexual agenda, including homosexual marriage." www.metrostarnews.com Never before in our country’s history has there been a nationalparty pla~omn that is so indusive ofour entire community.... Is the pla~orm perfect? No.... Is it a goodfoundation ? Unequivocally yes." -- Rea Carey, Executive Director, National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund As part of border search policy, government agents are now authorized to seize electronic devices and inspect documents in them, the document states. The electronic devices might include laptops, cell phones, portable music players or storage devices such as portable hard drives. com. Dallas is a destination that inspires big ideas and promises many memorable experiences. This richly diverse city is home to some of the best shopping and dining in America ; one Of the largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender populations; and outstanding performing and visual arts in the largest contiguous urban arts district in the nation. Dallas is an authentic, sophisticated and distinctive gatewa): For additional LGBT visitor information, please visit ~z~v.glb tdallas.com. Broad and historic inclusion of LGBT issues in proposed Democratic National Platform If elected, he ~vill fill the seat ofRep. ~4ark Udall, who is running for the U.S. Senate. Phota: U..S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin (D-~Vi3 ) WASHINGTON, DC (PR) __ National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund Executive Director Rea Carey spoke today at an audio press conference about the Democratic National Platform, which was hosted by the National Stonewall Democrats and featured U.S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), a member of the Platform Committee. Carey talked about the historic Significance of the proposed Democratic National Platform as it relates to issues impacting the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT)community. Statement by Rea Carey, Executive Director National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund "The vision put forth in the 2008 Democratic National Platform is historic in its embrace of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans. Never before in our country’s history has there been a national party platform that is so inclusive of our entire community. "It is a forward-looking platform in so many areas, including those relating to LGBT people. The Task Force Action Fund is certainly pleased to see that in the opening paragraph of the section tided ’A More Perfect Union,’ for the first time the platform explicitly calls for an end to discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. This demonstrates the success and unprecedented partnership between LGBT advocates and courageous public leaders, including Representative Baldwin, in educating the public and policymakers on the need for fully inclusive anti-discrimination protections. "The plank that includes a comprehensive Employment Non-Discrimination Act recognizes the LGBT community’s call ~br fully inclusive legislation, a critical element if we are to have legislation that protects all of us, equally. Polls would become the sixth openly gay person to serve in the House of Representatives, following in the footsteps of Baldwin, Frank, and former Reps. Gerry Studds, D-Mass., who is deceased, Steve Gunderson, R-Wis., and Jim Kolbe, R-Ariz. Frank, 68, is now the powerful chairman of the House Financial Services Committee. Frank told the Denver Post, "We are reaching that point where among Democratic voters sexual orientation of a candidate is not a factory He also said that once he’s no longer the only gay male congressman, he won’t feel as much pressure to be a role model and plans to start smoking cigars in public again. "I can start indulging some bad habits;’ Frank told the Post. "Let the young gay people find someone else to emulate." Indonesian transgender woman wins U.S. asylum A 42-year-old transgender woman from Indonesia won asylum in the U.S. based on Indonesia’s treatment oftransgender people, the Jakarta Post reported Aug. 11, citing activist reports. Michelle Saras~vati, who was a man named Michael Setiabudi until 2006, had been in the U.S. since 1998, remaining in the country illegally when his work visa expired in 2001. As a gay man, he lost an asylum claim in 2005. Saraswati then reapplied for asylum as a transgender woman in 2006 and won her case at the San Francisco Immigration Court. The Post said Saraswati convinced the court that Indonesia lacks legal protections and employment opportunities for transgender people. "Is the platform perfect? No. There is much more work to be done, especially to improve issues of family recognition. However, is it a good foundation? Unequivocally yes." NetroSTAR 7 �Viognier [vee-oh-nay] For those who haven’t experienced Viognier, the first glass is quite a revelation. This wine xvill embody al! or some of the following: honeysuckle, citrus blossoms, lychee, ripe melon, freshly picked peaches or apricots and ripe pear. Winemaker Craig Williams, from Joseph Phelps Vineyards, says Viognier contains floral compounds called Terpens. They are also found in Muscat and Riesling. So, think of the most aromatic Muscat or Riesling you’ve ever encountered, then concentrate it and you have Viognier. The majority of French Viogniers are sold as Vin de Pays in the Languedoc. In the Pdaone wine region, the grape is often blended with Roussanne, Marsanne and Grenache blanc. In the Northern Rhone the grape is sometimes blended with Chardonnay. Since the late !980s, plantings of Viognier in the United States and Canada have increased dramatically. The Rhone Rangers of the mid 1980s help spark the increased interest in Viognier in California and now Californigs Central Coast is the leading producer. ,~thith the heat of summer coming to a close, this season marks what many consider to be white wine’s last hurrah. Lots of people seem to want to drink more reds in the colder months so we’re listing some cool white wines that don’t live in the spotlight and iust happen to start with the letter V’ And this month, we are all about the ’V! Cline 2007 California Yulamba Y’ series 2007 Austrailia White Knight 2006 California Some Portuguese l~mles call this Gouveto, The Godello ~rape~gr6wn in northwest Spain is believed torte the ~ame variety as Verdelho. Wines from the to The grape has bee~ successful in the vineyards of Australia, parfieularly the Hunter Valley region, Langhorne Creek and the Swan Valley. Australian versions of Verdelho are noted for their intense flavors with hints of lime honeysuckle. California is this varietal as well. of styles from tages In 3roduced in bulk vintners and post-teen party-goers Good Vouvray i, firm, and delicate, character. St. Amant 2005 Mar~ rather than chenin Verdejo [ver-day-ho] This is a has long region France Picard 2006 France about ~o to your favorite wine and purchase a bottle or : food & wine with friends and for yourself the 11 th Century. For winemakin on Verdejo. As a consequence, In white wines from the Rueda region were ognized by a Denominaci6n de Origen Wmeslabeled Rueda must contain 50 Y0 ,s Verdejo" must contain 85% Verdejo, and often 100% Verdejo. Verdelho [vehr-DEH-lyoh] IVb&_DEIP,A’S most widely planted white-wine grape, Verdelho is classified as a noble or classic grape. On the Portuguese mainland, it is recommended in the DAO region’s ,vhite wines and in the production of white port. Vouvrav ~ Verdejo wines are aromatic, often soft and full~bbdied. They can be somewhat reminiscent Of Sauvignon blanc wines ftom a ~varm climate. D’ This writer also bar tends and hosts wine & food events known in town as the Wine Enthusiasts of Tulsa. Rqgrences indude: the ~4BC’s ofwine by James Laubd wwua ~,VineSpectatomom www.FoodandFVine.com www.PVikipedia.orgwww.77:d’Vorldl~deWine.com Garci Grande 2006 Spain Marquis de Riscat 2007÷~Spain This months recipe: Springfield, Ill DIRECTIONS MAKE THE SAUCE: Set up a double boiler or se~ a medium-sized stainless-steal bowl over a pot 0fsimmering water. Check to make sure the bottom ~Ho~v;eshoe Sandwich" Recipe for Horseshoe Sandwich 2 slices of’toast ( 1 slice of toast is a ponyshoe) topped with a slice of ham, hamburger, turkey or chicken. Cover in Cheese sauce a~d topped with french ~ies. Cheese Sauce 3 ctws Shredded Cheddar Cheese (some people prefer white sharp cheddar) 1/2 cup Beer 2 e~ yokes 2 tablespoons butter i re,pooh Vgorcestershire sauce salt & pepper to taste 8 Net~°oST~kR Worcestershire ,vith Salt to taste. To avoid a stringy sauce, it is important to constandy stir the Ch~ese and be s}tre tha.t the water is not boiling, but rather sunmenng. COOK THE MEAT: Whichever you choose, just cook in the usual way ASSEMBLE THE DISH: For each serving, place two slices of the toast on a large plate and top each with the meat. Pour the rarebit sauce over the meat and top the sauce with French fries. Serve immediately. September 2008 �Wockner News Service Lesbos residents lose ’lesbian’ lawsuit Three residents of the Greek islaaad of Lesbos who filed suit to reclaim the word "lesbian" and stop the group Homosexua! and Lesbian Community of Greece (OLKE) from using it lost their case July 22. The plaintiffs claimed the alleged theft of "lesbian" from the island’s residents amounted to "psychological and moral rape." .An Athens court found the claim baseless mad ordered the trio to pay $363 in costs. Plaintiff Dimitris Lanabrou vmved to appeal the ruling. Gay women are believed to have adopted the word in memory of Sappho, a poet who lived on the island in the sixth century B.C. and ~vrote about love between women. Con}ugal visits blocked for Costa Rican gay inmates Costa Rica’s Constitutional Court ruled Aug. 10 that gay inmates have no right to conjugal visits. The ruling came in the case of a former inmate who had been allowed such visits with a current inmate, only to see them halted later by prison officials, However, reports said another, similar case is still before the court, but ~vith different arguments. That case claims it is a violation ofim~qates’ right to sexual freedom to restrict conjugal visits to heterosexual couples. Panama legalizes gay sex Panamanian President Martin Torrijos Espino signed a decree July 29 repealing a 1949 law that criminalized sodomy trader penalty of a $500 fine or jail time. The move followed protests by the gay group New Men and Women of Panama and other human-rights defenders, local media said. The decree, issued by the Ministry of Health and also signed by Health Minister Rosario E. Turner, said the ban was at odds with the Panamanian Constitution and international htmaan-rights treaties Panan~a has signed. It also said the law conflictedwith the Health Ministry’s policy to "maintain respect for the sexual preferences of each person, without the existence of any type of discrimination" in the operation of its sexually transmitted diseases programs. w,~.metrostamews.com According to Amnesty International, 11 nations in Central America, South America and the Caribbean continue to ban gay sex -- Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago. President defends gay rights in draft Ecuadorean constitution President Rafael Correa has defended a new draft Ecuadorean constitution that grants same-sex couples the rights of marriage, E1 Teldgrafo reported Aug. 1. All of the countries are former British colonies. The document faces a popular vote Sept. 28. Georgian gay leader discusses invasion Speaking in the city of Monteverde, Correa said: "Jesus of Nazareth never preached hatred, homophobia or segregation; instead he kne~v to say, ’Love one another.’ Georgian gay activist Paata Sabelashvili, head of the Tbilisi-based GLBT group Inclusive Foundation, communicated with San Francisco blogger Michael Petrelis on Aug. 11. The country, a former Soviet republic, has been at war with Russia since being attacked Aug. 7. A ceasefire agreement was signed on Aug. 15, but some fighting has continued. "Let me thank you for expressing solidarity in this difficuk moment," Sabelashvili wrote. "Unfortunately, I have not been able to take good care of the NGO (nongovernmental organization) these days as I was helping out journalists who covered the events. I was with Danish TV2 journalists as close to capital of South Ossetia as 6 km today. Bombs have been dropped around us. We saw 3 jets and heard more, as well as the noise from more than 20 charges being released." "It is close to panic situation," Sabdashvili said. "I am now sitting in the office and try to get (hold of) family and friends. Mobile phones are down. I am not sure ~vhen will Internet go off. Russian troops are stationed 20 km west to capital Tbilisi and people are fleeing the city. I do not know what is on invaders’ mind but it is really bad xvhat is on in town. Only reason our Web site still works is that it is placed outside Georgia and does not have Georgiaff domain. "It is not so easy for me to make clear points. So, obviously, I need to stop writing and go back to why I came to office: to back up all our workfiles in case office is bombed. I thank you for thinking of us and I wish peace to all of you no matter where you are. By the way, we are out and publicly visible -- you can see that in our magazine as well." Xhe group’s Web site is inclusive-foundation. org. Estonia considers samesex partners h’p 1 aw Estonia’s Justice Ministry is drafting a same-sex partnership laxv, with plans that it come into ~0rce in 2009. The proposed statute is expected to cover such areas as inheritance, property rights and citizenship. A poll by the nevcspaper Eesti P~ievalehelt sugests the measure willt~p~ass Parliament, as long as ~t doesn t include adopnon rights. Photo: Ecuadorean President Rafael Correa. Photo: Presidencia de la Rep(~blica del Ecuador "It is false that (the draft) is recognizing as family the union of homosexuals. What we are doing is recognizing the dignity of all people without discrimina- tion based on race, sex, sexual orientation, etc" "Let’s hope, now that there’s been so much talk about moral incompatibilities bet~veen the new constitution and the Gospel, sometimes utilizing falsehoods, that we also can talk with equal force about the profound incompatibility of the social situation -- of that inequality, of that existing social injustice -- with the Gospels," Correa said. A poll released Aug. 5 found that 47 percent of citizens plan to vote for the constitution and 31 percent plan to reject it. A "yes" vote of more than 50 percent is needed for the document to take effect. The poll questioned 1,160 citizens nationally and had an error margin of 4 percent and a confidence level of 95 percent. Hate crimes mar Europride in Stockholm A series of hate crimes marred the 10-day Europride cdebration, held this year in Stocltholm from July 25 to Aug. 3. On July 27, two men ~vho had just kissed were stabbed and robbed of their cell phones in the Tantolunden area by attackers who shouted anti-gay slurs. One of the victims was seriously injured. On July 30, two men were assaulted outside a 7-Eleven store in the downtown area by attackers who shouted homophobic insults, q-hey suffered minor injuries. Police later arrested three alleged assailants, ages 17 to 20. Police classified both incidents as hate crinqes, said the Stockholm publication The Local. In addition, three Lutheran churches were vandalized because the Church of Sweden took part in Europride. The buildings and grounds were plastered with flyers condemning homosexuality and the pride events. Xhe flyers described the perpetrators as "orthodox Christians: On Aug. 2, about halfa million people turned out for the Europride parade, despite drenching rainfall. Ecuador draft constitution creates same-sex unions A new draft Ecuadorean constitution approved by a special assembly in July will grant same-sex couples the rights of marriage. The document faces a popular vote on Sept. 28. "Ihe hierarchy of the Ecuadorean Roman Catholic Church has denounced the draft because of the recognition of gay unions and its apparent failure to ban abortion outright[ Gays arrested in Saudi Arabia Fifty-five young men were arrested at a gay dance party in Saihat, Saudi Arabia, July 28, local media reported. Col. Abdul Aziz Soleiman, spokesman for security forces in the Eastern Region, said the party took place on a farm and that two of the detainees were wearing women’s makeup and dancing for the other attendees. The Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice Unit took part in the raid, reports said. Saudi authorities have raided other gay parties in recent months, according to the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission. MetroSTAR 9 �Pagan Pride exhibit at the De m% R. Neill Equality Center TULSA, OK (PR) Tile Dennis R. Neill Equality Center art gallery will host its monthly First q’hursday meet-the-artist reception from 6-9pm, Thursday, September 04, 2008, for the opening of it’s ne~v exhibit, Pagan Pride. Fly Over Trees q-his is the second year in a row the Equality Center has hosted the art show, consisting of Pagan/Heathen artists, in conjunction ~vith q~e Oldahoma Pagan/Heathen Alliance, Inc. (OPHA). This year’s Gallery show will be expanded to include even more art mediums. There will be watercolours, acrylics, oil on canvas, digital art, photography, day sculpture, custom glass, textile art, and more. OPHA has gathered together artists within the Pagan and Heathen comnaunities to showcase themes that have been given birth through the artist’s spirituality and reflection on die world. Beloved Daughter Tulsa, Ok 74119 Autumn Dancers More information on the artists and the Pagan/Heathen Alliance can be found on the web at http://www.oklapha.org. The reception will be generously catered by donation by Brother’s Pizza. The exhibit will remain up dirough the month of September, and can be viewed Monday thru Saturday from 3-9pro. The Dennis R. Neill Equality Center is located at 621 E. 4th St., in downtown Tulsa. More info can be found on the web at okeq.org. This monthly event is hosted by Oklahoman’s~r Equality (OkEq). OkEq seeks equal rightsfor Lesbian, Ga3~ Bis~al & ~’ansgender (LGBT) individuals andfamilies through advocacy, education, programs, alliances, and the operation ofthe Dennis R. Neill Equality Cente~ �@ The Ledo, Oklahoma City @ The Copa, Oklahoma City @ Bamboo Lounge, Tulsa @ Angles, Oklahoma City @Club Majestic, Tulsa @ Finishline, Oklahoma City w~v.metrostarnews.com t~÷t~°oSTAR 11 �ROCK RED NORTH SEEKING NEW LOCATION "Following on the heels of the very successfu! Centennial Celebration last year, we are looking forward, with great anticipation, to the second century of the Oklahoma State Fair," said Tim O’Toole, president and general manager of the Oklahoma State Fair. "This year’s event is shaping up to rival what we offered last year. We are planning a very large and LIVE! party for the people of Oklahoma." ~ae 2008 Oklahoma State Fair° LIVE! returns xvith four premier attractions: Disney’s High School Musical: q-he Ice Tour, Beauty & the Bulls, PRCA Rodeo Action and Extreme Monster Truck Nationals. LIVE opens with Disney’s High School Musical: The Ice Tour School is cool again when Disney’s High School Musical: The Ice Tour is in session. Starting Thursday, September 11, the 10-show ice production of High School Musical and High School Musical 2 featuring the songs and dance from both smash hit movies and a cast of world-class skaters will keep guests cheering for more. Tulsa State Fair begins September 25 and will run through October 5th. q-he 2007 run had an attendance of 987,057. Ticket Prices: Adults: $8.00 Seniors aged 62+: $4.00 Military Personnel: $4.00 with valid ID Children 6-12:$5.00 Children 5 and under: FREE! Advance Tickets went on sale August 1 lth, September 22nd at area QuikTrip, Reasors, and Homeland !ocations, as well as the Expo Square Ticket Ot~ce. $20 for a book of 4 gate achnission tickets. $10 for a book of 20 ride tickets. ~]ae Community Stage will host a variety of entertainment throughout the 11 day run, 33 artists in all. Paid events following the rodeo will include country artists Rodney Atldns, October 2, Pat Green October 3, and Gary Allen October 4. Disney Highschool Musical will run September 25-28. Country Star Cris Cagle Beer Garden shows will include a popular Oklahoma band, the Stars. Rockandcountryroll Hurricane Mason, SeXtion 8, Red Dirt Rangers, Jumpstart, Mojo Dogs, eleven groups in all will keep you entertained. Boyz II Men will perform on the Oklahoma Main Stage Sept 27, 8pm, Oak Ridge Boys Sept 28, Cris Cagle Sept 30th 8pro and eleven other popular stars. "12 ~etroSTAR By Victor Gorin Neil Patrick Harris wants to represent ’normal’ gays "He’s dreamy. Just dreamy," Harris said. ’Tve been a fan of his since season I of The Mole. I just thought he was so cool when he talked in this cool, low, secret-agent voice ~- ’If you can accomplish this task...’" W-ockner wire service Harris continued: "Listen, no one can tell anyone how big their steps should be or when they can take them. You can take issue with someone making overtly denying statements, and you can take issue with people straightup presenting themselves as someone that they’re not -- because I think that’s kind of shady and not very stand-up. But you can’t fault someone for going through the process at their own time." Photo: Chuck Longacre, Outreacb Educato? ~t Red Rock North For over 5 years Red Rock North has served the GLBT community and those infected or affected by HIV at their current location at 2240 N.W. 39th Street, an area long kalown in OKC as the 39th Street Strip. HIV Outreach educators Chuck Longacre, Randy Shanahan and Mike Maus, along with director Connie Motleyprovide free HIV testing and counseling, which clients often need regardless of their test results. Recently they have begun a support group for those living with or affected by HIV on Tuesday nights at 5:30 p.m. In addition there is now a Supper Club on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays as well, providing those individuals with a non alcoholic socia[activity. Red Rock is a statewide nonprofit organization ( 50 lc3) headquartered in Oklahoma City at 4400 N. Lincoln, with facilities in Tulsa along with smaller communities including Chandler, Elk City and H Rent, which helpsprovide a much n~eded rural outreach. Co~l~ined with standard forms of outreach ( word of mouth, advertising and networking with organizations), many clients are reached through the Internet, with counselors communicating in gay chatrooms answering questions and encouraging those at risk to be tested. This ne~v outreach has grown so that around 10% of those coming in have been reached by cyberspace. Clients are provided an oral test which is completed in around 20 minutes. The quick results can sometimes show a false positive result, so those testing positive receive an additional blood test to be conclusive. The tests are very important, not only to prevent transmission of HIV to others, but also so that those infected can begin treatment which often can enable them to stay healthy. According to recent CDC estimates, almost i out of 4 of with HIV infected don’t know they are infected In May 2007, Out put two models on its cover holding pictures of Cooper and Jodie Foster in front of their faces above the words, "The Glass Closet: Why the Stars Won’t Come Out and Play." Cyndi Lauper: I had to come out as straight Gay actor Neil Patrick Hare’is. GLAAD photo Openly gay actor Neil Patrick Harris from TV’S How I Met Yohr Mother tells Out magazine in its September issue that he wants to be a role model for normal gay people. "I’m striving to be an example of normalcy," Harris said. "Because I’m noticed as an actor, people are aware of what’s happening in my life .... I’m a big proponent of monogamous relationships regardless of sexuality, and I’m proud of how the nation is steering toward that. ~aen you can look around and say, ’I really deeply feel like I’m in love with this person, there are people who feel the same thing, and those models are normal.’ The ’normal’ couples were sort of in the shadows for the past 15 or 20 years because you sort of needed other people to come forward and speak out." Pop singer Cyndi Lauper told The Times of London on Aug. 2 that she had to come out as straight. "My sister was gay, my best friends were gay, so I figured I had to be gay; she said. "So I did everything they did. I tried kissing girls. But it didn’t feel right for me and eventually I was forced to come out as a heterosexual." In addition to counseling, Red Rock provides free condoms, lubes, dental dams and other preventative items, as well as offering education. While offering the supplies and facts, counselors at Red Rock recognize emotional factors that come into play including the complexities of relationships, self esteem issues, and homophobia. Since a year ago the proportion of their clients testing positive has doubled, showing a clear need for more a~vareness. As Chuck Longacre puts it, "You just have to tell them ~vhat the risks are and let them make their own decisions, to empower them with the facts to encourage safe sex practices.’ As of press time it isn’t certain where the ne~v location for Red Rock North will be, although hopefi~y it could be nearby to best serve their current clientele. However, they are still in operation, and are still encouraging those at risk to be tested. They are also willing to speak to interested groups about testing and their other work in this area. For more information call 405 524 6500, then dial 200 for the Lauper also launched a broadside against George W. Bush. "When I hear people like George Bush talk about the gay community being anti-American it makes my blood boil," she said. Out magazine’s 3day 2007 coven In a more lighthearted moment, Harris told Out he thinks CNN anchorman Anderson Cooper is dreamy and is not a Candidate for outing. "The guy who saved the Vghite House, one of the heroes who crashed that plane on 9/11, was gay -- the rugby player Mark Bingham, who died on United 93. And does Bush ever mention that ? ... That gay guy saved his lousy ass:" operator. September 2008 �ifest > enteAainm Hadrian t Gay Emperor By Arifa Akbar His attempt to fortify the Roman Empire is well lra~own. But an exhibition focuses on another side of the man The bust is classically Roman, the face imperious. But this is no ordinary emperor: As a major new exhibition at the British Musenm makes dear, Publius Aelius Traianus Hadrianus was not 0nly a peacemaker who pulled his soldiers out of modernday Iraq. He was also the ilrst leader of Rome to make it clear that he wa~ gay. Hadrian: EiTapire and Conflict will see the bust make pilgrimages to both ends of HadriaNs x~htl, the first time it has left: the British Museum since being found in the Thames 200 years ago. But it is the singular life-story of the gay emperor d~at is likely to capture the interest of most visitors. ~rer being made emperor AD117, he inherited a Roman Empire in its prime, which had thrived on a policy of endless expansion and conquest. His first move, within hours of coronation, was to withdraw his troops from Mesopotamia, now Iraq, and fortify the empire~ boundaries by building his eponymous wall in northern England and others in the Danube and the Rhine valleys, ushering in a ne~v era of peace. The reign that followed can be traced through 200 ancient treasures, many of which have never been display in Britain. Several of the artefacts relate to his male consort, Andnous, who accompanied him on his travels around the empirel These items include a poem written on papyrus, featuring the two men hunting together, and new finds that include memorials to the dead lover at Hadrian’s villa in Tivoli. .Although it was not uncommon for his predecessors to have taken gay lovers alongside a female spouse, Hadrian was unique in making his love "official" in a xvay that no other emperor had before him. Are you going to California to get married? Send us your wedding announcement with photo’s. To: starnews@sbcglobal.net We will include you in the Metro Star wedding section. Your contact info must be included. ~.metrostamews.com ~÷troSTAR 13 �by Donald Pile and Ray Williams SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS AND WAS PRESIDENT LINCOLN GAY? They have been there for several years. Did we mention that everybody there is extremely friendly? Other gay bars seem to come and go in Springfield but the Station House is always there. They usually have quite a few events going on all the time. There is no smoking in aW bar or restaurant in the entire State of Illinois (the 19th State to have a no-smoking policy) so everybody is certainly glad about that! The MCC Church is located at 50! West Monroe and their website is ww~v.heartlandcommunitymcc.org. There are several other churches in the city that welcomes gays and lesbians. Springfield is a very progressive and liberal-minded community. So ~vhether you visit Springfield for a day, a couple of days or a week, you will find plenty of things to see and do. You can take great day trips within 60 miles to visit also. The cities of Bloomington, Peoria and Decatur offer a lot of interesting places to visit also. ~ae airport is just to the north of tmvn so if you’re flying in you can pick a rental auto right there. Shopping, sight-seeing, dining, nightlife, Springfield has it all and more. The historical things to see and do in Springfield are really mind boggling! Just the Lincoln factor alone makes it all worthwhile! "~tbraham Lincoln Presidential Museum & Library" ¯ Springfield is the Capital of Illinois and also the resting place of our 16th President. It is located 100 miles north of St. Louis on Interstate 55. q-he Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library opened in downtown Springfield three years ago to huge crowds every day. On weekends, tourists come from all over to visit and on weekdays schoo! children are bussed in so it is busy all the time. The Museum is in one building and the Library is directly across the street. Was our 16th President gay or bi? For some good information on that subject, we suggest you read THE INTIMATE WORLD OF ABRAHAM LINCOLN by C. A. Tripp. The renowned psychologist offers an entirely ne~v perspective on our most enigmatic president. It is the new "bombshell" 0fa book asking a startling question: W-as Lincoln gay? While downtown, visit Lincoln’s Springfield home as well as the old State House. Springfield is full of history and among the many things to see are the Vachel Lindsay Home which is the 1879 birthplace of this native Springfield poet/artist. Also visit the Lincoln Depot where Lincoln departed his beloved Springfield for the Presidency, the Executive Governor’s Mansions, the Illinois State Capitol, the Lincoln-Herndon Law Office where Lincoln practiced law from 1842 to 1852 and the Dana-Thomas House which is one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s finest prairie-style homes. One would think that this house was built in the 1950’S or 1960’S but it was actu~ly built between 1902 and !904. It has 15 rooms and is spread out over a half block area. Luckily the owner sold the property to a Publishing CompaW in the 1940’S with all the furniture intact and then in turn sold it to the State of Illinois in the 1980’S with the furniture still intact so this is the only Frank Lloyd Wright house with all furnishings intact. Even if you are not 14 M~t~oSTAR into the arts and crafts design movement, this is a must see tour. Other sites to visit are the Illinois Fire Museum, Illinoi~ State Museum, Illinois State Military Museum, Illinois State Police Heritage Foundation Museum and E&vards Place, which is a beautifully preserved Italianate mansion ~vhich was built in 1833 which is now part of the Springfield Art Association. Not tired ofwalkingyet? Then also visit the Air Combat Museum, the Lawrence Memorial Library, the World War Illinois Veterans Memorial, Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War Museum, Grand Army’of the Republic Memorial Museum and of course no visit to Springfield would be complete without going to the Lincoln Tomb which is located in the Oak Ridge Cemetery just north of downtown. You can take a tour thru the mausoleum to visit the final resting place of President Lincoln and his wife. It will take you several days just to visit everything in Springfield so if you have just a couple of days, be sure and check out everything on line to make your major list of places to visit. There are a lot of restaurants in the city. They are famous for their "horseshoe sandwiches2 which is bread, topped with french fries and your choice of beef, turkey or chicken and then a nice blended cheese sauce on top. Although it is called a sandwich you have to eat it with a fork. Be sure and try one of them while you are there. For nightlife, we always enjoy the Station House Bar at 306 East ~Fashington downtown. ~Ilae owner and bartenders are extremely friendly and make out oftowners always feel welcome. It is just the right size of a bar..., not huge yet not cramped. They have a side room the same size as the main room xvhen the crowd gets really big. They have a great rectangular bar in the center where it is easy to see and tall Before going to Springfield be sure and check out a few websites including, www.visit-springfieldillinois.com and www.alplm.org/home. html for the Lincoln Museum. There are dozens of mainstream motels and hotels in the greater Springfield area to stay. Always remember to have fun when traveling, meet new people and talk to everyone! Getting Information Before Traveling By Donald Pile and Ray Williams A lot of times when visiting a new city, state or an area that you are not familiar with, where can you find information about it ? \Veil, surP risingly there are several great sources. Trave! books of course are the number one ideal thing to read. Just check out a few at the local library and do your research before traveling. ~rrite down all the information, addresses and phone numbers that you think you might need. If you want to tour museums, galleries, historical sights or whatever just be sure and find out when they are open and their hours. There is nothing worse than driving someplace only to see a closed sign. Reading travel columns in both gay as well as straight publications also gives a good insight on xvhat to see and do. The writers have actually been to those places and give a better perspective on what to see aaad do. Almost all travelers are interested in different things to do, be it sports, arts, fine dining, sight-seeing or whatever so each traveler really is a very spe,cial and unique person. Many gay travelers don t even hav-e a desire to go to a gay bar When traveling. They are just interested in doing so many other things. In our travels to major resort cities it seems as thou a lot of gays just stay right in their resort and take advantage of the social activities that they offer there. You can also find great.ideas about a place by just "talking to people. On a flight not too longago a friend of ours happen to mention to the flight attendant that he was going to Atlanta and had never been there before2 ~e flight attendant was ex~emei~ friendly; told him that he flies there all the time and has to stay over a few days mad wrote down several restaurants, bars and museums for him to visit. Sometimes the person sitting next to you has some ideas on where to visit and dine. In restat,~,rants as well a,s, bars, if you just take the time to talk to people you will be surprised how much information you can get from the locals. Bartenders seem to always know where the locals go and where not to go, If you are going someplace really different, like the Grand-Canyon, Ye- llowstone or places like that then head down to your local library and check out some videos on your destination. Most of these scenic places really offer so much to See that you need to narrow it down to just the best parts that you want to see. "Lincoln Bronze Statue" And of course the Internet is still one of your best tools to use before traveling. Almost every city, state, museums, galleries, historical attractions now have their own website so you can visit and obtain the vital information that you need to know about before traveling. Many times you can purchase tickets to these p!aces you want to visit right on line before takin~ offon your trip. Both the Convention anti Visitor’s Bureaus websites for cities and states really offer a lot of ideas on what to do when visiting them and the surrounding area. Many times local business will even advertise on their websites with coupons for restaurants and the different places to visit, so be sure and pick up a copy of the local newspaper to see what newis happening. to everybody. September 2008 �v~w,~.metrostamews.com ~et~oSTAR 15 �by Jack Fertig September 2008 "Stand up for yourself, Virgo!" A Sun-Saturn conjunction in Virgo sounds like hard work and criticism. This one harmonizes a dangerously boisterous Mars-Jupiter square, bringing focus and purpose to high energies that could otherwise be squandered. Cladfy your goals, work with others, and be open to criticism, and you can achieve almost anything! ARIES [March 20 -April 19): Your leadership Skills can shine through if you’re a good follower. Let others take the lead, and be willing to work with them. Your suggestions and efforts as a humble part of the team will serve the team well, and you even better. Participate in the iarS;est LGBT Corn[]unity Survey in history, and help demonstrate the Everyone who completes the survey by Sept 14, 2008 wi~! be entered into a drawing to win one of FiVE iP0d Shuffles or the 6rand Prize of TWO free airline tickets fr0~0 any of the participating airline’s destinations in the 48 continental U.S. States, plus Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. Restrictions apply. P~ease take the survey today, and tell your friends! Tren~end0us strides toward full equality have been achieved by our communities over the past decade. There’s Power in Our Pride. Power to make a difference: Bay and lesbian survey studies have opened doors (and minds) in leading con,~orations and organizations, which in turn have recognized the value of their LGBT employees through the establishment of equal hiring policies and domestic partner benefits. This has been a catalyst, leading to sweeping changes in political and Social inclusivity. Demographic reports also influence marketing investment. Virtually absent until recently, we now see a growing variety of products and services represented in gay media, celebrating our diversity. Ads keep LGBT publications and websites in business, serving their communities with independent news and information. Beyond simply advertising, though, these companies support us in many ways, including sponsoring community events and funding community-based charities in order to earn our loyalty. Taking an annual pulse on market trends through surveys helps demonstrate the LGBT community’s growing power, and influences positive change. We respect your privacy. All personal survey data is held confidentially by Community Marketing, Inc., an independent market research and communications firm based in San Francisco (founded 1992, and proudly 100% gay-owned and -operated) and will not I be sold to third parties or used for marketing purposes. Thank you! Community Mark÷ting, ® 2008 Community Marketing, inc., 584 castro st. #834, san Francisco CA 94114 USA ~.ComrnunityMarketinglnc.com TAURUS [April 20 - May 20): If having fun feels like too much work, try to have fun at work. A little creativity on the job can boost morale and encourage you and your colleagues to work smarter, getting more done with less effort. GEMINI [May 21 - June 20): Fun may seem too important, and you could be frittering away energy that could be used in more satisfying - and yes, more deeply "fun" - ways. Start at home. Your partner, roommate, or even parent could have some very helpful ideas. CANCER [June 21 - July 22): Working too hard at making your partner happy could backfire. A serious discussion can open up issues you need to work on. It sounds tough, but this is a golden opportunity to improve things tremendously. LEO [July 23 -August 22): The big picture seems a bit off, and your efforts to correct it could be too all-encompassing to be effective. Focus on crucial details. What’s most important? Don’t be embarrassed to seek help from an authority. VIRGO [August 23 - September 22): Letting others choose your fun and games can get expensive. Don’t be afraid to set your limits and state your desires. Being a team player means compromises on all sides. You will all have more fun if you stand up for yourself. LIBRA [September 23 - October 22): You[ current rash of energy could be eas ly exploitedby’a f~ily member or housemate. Stop and think. What do you really want to do? Some volunteer work will do both you and your community a lot of good! SCORPIO [October 23 - November 21): Worrying about what others think will only clog up your brain. Focus on your personal goals and where you want to be in 10, 20, or 30 years. Meditation helps. Planning is even better. Doing both is best. SAGITTARIUS [November 22 - December 20): Real friends love you for your charms, not your generosity. Entertain and plan as if you were head of accounting. Be resourceful! You can be frugal and fabulous, which will also impress the people who count. CAPRICORN [December 21 - January 19): Teamwork is the key to success. Do you really want to be in charge? You’re probably better as the power behind the throne. Your best ideas, .important as they are, have room for improvement. Discuss them with an expert. AQUARIUS [January 20 - Februar3, 18): Those arguments that seem so irresistible are not that important. Make your point and let it go. Take a quiet, amorous holiday, exploring techniques of pleasure. Discover what really works for you and your partner. Don’t fall back on habit or presumption! PISCES [February 19 - March 19): Top? Bottom? Could be time to switch. Don’t be afraid to interrupt lovemaking to discuss needs, techniques, or other important issues, not necessarily sexual. An older friend, maybe an ex, may have very helpful insights. 16 &~troSTAR September 2008 �Small Business: Economic Woes Lead to Oppornmity Despite the bleak news about the economy and the continuing credit crunch, small b~lsiness owners have some built-in advantages for survMng--and thrMng--during troubling times like these. Unlike corporate giants, they have flexibility on their side, allmving them to respond more quickly to customers’ needs and even to try t~ing their businesses in new directions. Small businesses also are uniquely poised to adjust their budgets to offset a downturn in sales. A nimble small business owner can reduce costs overnight, trimming office supplies, water delivery services, travel expenses and trash pick-ups. Also many LGBT businesses can rely on loyalty within their general community and with their LGBT customers to offset any drops in sales that might come from wary consumers looking to cut back. ~V~nat distinguishes successful LGBT businesses is their connection to their communities;’ says Justin Nelson, co-founder and president of the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. "They have strong ties to their customers, and they are participants in the success of their communities. The loyalty they engender through their support of community events and causes can come back to them in tough economic times:’ ................ ® Identifying core markets and targeting marketing efforts to them. Finally, a more personal approach to boosting business may be increasing networking ef~brts: Alliances with other LGBT business owners can lead to financial opportunities. By taking advantage ofweeldy breakfast meetings, receptions or cocktail parties hosted by the local LGBT chamber, entrepreneurs can make connections that translate into business and profits. "As chamber professionals, we need to be out talking to people about the choices they’re making;’ says Minnesot£s Sam McClure, executive director of Q~orum: The Tvcin Cities GLBTA Chamber of Commerce. "We have to ask ourselves: ’Does all of this move us forward?’ Supporting this or that LGBT business should be part of the larger effort to move us all forward. It’s the whole rising-tide concept. "If we let aW of our LGBT business owners fail when we could have helped them, then xve’re doing a disservice to them and our entire cormnunity. They’re creating jobs and the energy that fuels philanthropy. I think we should be out there reminding everyone that it makes a difference where you buy your coffee or your gas or your office equipment? (Source NGLCC http:i/www.nglcc.org/BIZ/index ) gqlile keeping a close eye on the budget and taking advantage 0fcustomer loyalty will help maintain business, it won’t necessarily create new business. That’s where the confident entrepreneur n~eds to stay the course and bravely ma~e even gr{a{&" inxestments in marketing and advertising to stand out fi’6m fl~e crowd, experts say. "~ne tendency is to want to cut back on all your spending to reduce your overall budget," says Kimberlee Willialns, principal and ~narketing director ofFEMWORKS, LLC, a Newark, New Jersey marketing firm that specializes in outreach to the African-American LGBT community. "But what you need to do is invest more money into marketing at these points. Customers still need your services and products, and this might be the time where you can stand above the crowd because your competitors are cutting back their marketing dollars." Some other suggestions for surviving an economic downturn include: ~ Evaluating workforce needs and adjusting accordingly, hiring temporary staffor interns to fill the gap or instituting a hiring freeze; ~ Offering overtime benefits to hourly employees to stave offhiring a full-time employee; ¢ Talking to your bank about extending a line of credit; ® Staying in touch with customers and letting them lmow the value of their business; ÷ Asking vendors and suppliers for concessions on the length of payment periods and interest rates; ÷ Being more aggressive xvhen collecting money owed the company, including offering clients the choice of charging their payments; www.metrostarnews.com METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES Rev Steve T. Orie Spidt of Christ MCC 2902 E2Olh Street Joplin, MO 64804 417-52~80 Worship Saturdays at 10:00 AM Community Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM MCC of the Living Spdng 17 Elk S~eet Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays at 6:00 PM Have a GOd filled and BleSSed Day! N~troSTAR 17 �KING OF MASSAGE Groat Touch Man to Man Fult Body Massage 2 hands or 4 hands available Keller Williams Realty Chuck Breckenridge Whether buying or selling I’ll work hard for you. 1o800o535oAIDS (2437) Oklahoma’s HIV/STD Hotline ~NWAGLBTCC~ORG Community for P÷opl÷ tiving Metro Star Classfieds Our House, Too offers a variety of activities for people who are H1V+ and or living with AIDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves, VVe invi{e anyone who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail harrism mjr@yahoo.com. 2" square ON SALE! £oras little as $33 per issue. Email: starnews@sbcglobal.net offer good until 9/16/08 918.835.7887 SAVE & FILL YOUR PIGGY [] WWW.METROSTARNEWS.C OM 18 ~etroSTAR September 2008 �Support those who support us. Their ads allow us to distribute your community news FREE to you. DOWNTOWN PL.aLZA of TULSA I7 West 7th Street ~Ihtsa, OK 918-585-5898 *~vw.downto~vnplazatulsa.com I-LABANA INN 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-528-2221 www.habanainn.com ~LLY KIRBY, CPA 4815 S. HARVARD, SUITE 424 Tulsa, OK * 918-747-5466 Certified Public Accountant OPEN,MRMS YOUTH PROJECT 2015 -B S. Lakewood Tulsa, OK 74112 918-838-7104 www. openarmsproject.org OUR HOUSE, TOO 203 N. 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Tulsa, OK 918£584-9494 www.clubmajestictulsa.com FINISHLINE 2200 i’~V 39TH EXPP,_ESSWAY O~-~.homa City, OK 405-5252073~3 w~wc.habanainn.com THE COPA 2200 NW- 39TH ~RESSWAY OkAahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 ~a~vw.habanainn.com GAY BRADY HEIGHTS-Tulsa New and Historic Homes for Sale and Rent For Info: www.gaybradyheightstulsa.com GUSHER’S PdSSTAURANT 2200 ~xWg 39TH ~RESSWAY Oklalmma City, OK 405-525-0730 Located inside Habana Inn DALLAS CV~B Dallas, TX ww~v.glbtdallas.com THE LEDO 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY OkJahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 wv~v.habanainn.com HOPE TESTING CLINIC 3540 E. 31st Tulsa, OK 800-535-2437 Oldahoma’s HIV/STD Hottine SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC 2902 E. 20TH STREET, Joplin, MO * 479-529-8480 Service SatOrday 9:30 AM MCC of the LIVING SPRING 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays 6pm MCC UNITED 1623 N. Maplewood, Tulsa, OK 918-838-!715 ~,w.v.mcctulsa.org www.metrostamews.com ~etroSTAR 19 �"I’m Ron Marlett and i’m running for State House District 84 because I want a chance to bring about change that really matters for my fellow Oklahomans: good jobs, affordable healthcare, a quality educational system and real freedom and equality." .......... ! NEED YOUR HELP TO WIN THIS ELECTION, WE. CAN MAKE ~T HAPPEN! need money and volunteers! Ron Marlett P.O. Box 854 Bethany, OK 73008 (405) 840-2069 www.ronmarlettforhousedistrict84.com � Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data magazine Text Any textual data included in the document Exclusive Interview with Ron Marlett Democratic Candidate for State Rep. Dist. 84 against Sally Kern. See Page-3 WWW.METROSTARNEWS.COM "WE DELIVER DIVERSITY" SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 GLBTQYou h Center Struck by TULSA, OK (PR) __ In the early morning hours ofAugust 12th, Openarms "ibuth Project ~vas yet again su’uck by vandals. An unidentified individual broke into the facility by prying the fence loose from its post and kicking down a secondary gate to enter the patio area ofthe youth center. Upon entry, they overturned trash cans on the patio and threw a large rock through the window ofthe double doors used to access the patio. The invasion immediately triggered the alarm system and the vandals fled the scene. This is the most recent of four acts ofproperty damage directed at Openarms Youth Project, the only center in the Tulsa area serving the GLBTQyouth ages 14-21. GLBTQ youth are particularly vulnerable to harassment and depression. By providing a safe environment to be themselves, Openarms believes it allows the youth an opportunity to grow and mature into the young adults they are meant to be, without the fear o£jndgm~, ~p~narms Youth Project is governed by the y0uth it serves for progtamming as well as an adult Board of Directors and financial mana which they will not accomplish] ] mofi~ away from th~ pro~anS vulnerable population. This latest act ofdefiance will literally[ take food from their mouths as the Thursday night dinner is one ofthe largest group gatherings at the youth center. Each Thursday as many as fifty youths arrive for a warm meal and social time together. This meal, fimded by community supporters, costs Openarms over $100.00 per week and is a program the youth and adult board are dedicated to continuing weekly. q-he Board ofDirectors and volunteers are determined to raise the money needed to install an updated security system which the police say is the only way they can address the situation. This system will place cameras around the perimeter ofthe building that will begin recording when triggered by movement. This updated system will allow Openarms to provide authorities with photographs of the perpetrators should they return. This system will cost approximately $4,000 and the money must be raised in addition to Openarms regular operating budget to prevent the downsizing ofprogramming at the center. You may visit their website at www.openarmsproject.org or phone 918-838-7104 for additional information. Openarms Youth Project is a fully qualified 501c3 non-profit corporation. 2008 STATE FAIR TULSA, OK You know fall is near when you can smell the aromas and take in the sounds of Oklahoma’s two great state fair’s. Now bigger and better both the Oklahoma State Fair in Oklahoma City and the Tulsa State Fair will lure you in with new entertainment, mountains of corn dogs, indian tacos and rivers of cold beer. The 2008 Oklahoma State Fair® LIVE! tickets went on sale July 12. Gate admission tickets are free for children 5 and undeh $5 for children (ages 6-11), $8 for adults (12 and older), q-his year’s fair opens ~lursday, September 11 and runs through Sunday, September 21 at State Fair Park, Oklahoma City. .......................Continued see STATE FAIR Page-12 OKLAHOMA MUST HAVE GLBT INCLUSION IN HATE CRIMES LAW By Chaz Ward Oklahoma’s hate-crimes law makes it a crime to "intimidate or harass another person because ofthe person’s race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin or disability" and adds punishment beyond what would be imposed for the underlying crime, such ,as assault or vandalism. Oklahoma is one of 17 states whose hate-crimes laws don’t include protections for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people who are targeted because of their sexual orientation or identity. The 2006 FBI Hate Crime Statistics show an 18% increase in hate crimes against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. GLBT people now make up 16% ofhate crimes in the United States. "Ilae National Coalition ofAnti-Violence Programs (NCAVP) reports a recent rash ofat least 13 brutal and violent hate crimes that have occurred throughout the country on the heels ofthe murder of 15 year-old Lawrence King in Los Angeles and the brutal beating ofDuannaJohnson, both in February of2008. NCAVP reports that these hate crimes may indicate a frightening trend ofincreases in both the n~ber ~nd SeV~r-iW of anti-LGBT Violence: ReC~tly at the home ofRobert S~6der and hisp~erin east Tulsa near 21St and Garnett, was spray-paintedwith m~ssages "I’ll be back" and "Gay lviust G6". There Were damages 0n two different occasions including a car that was parked in the driveway that~~pray-painted and burned. We must not forget the Oklahoma City, October 26, 2007 brutal murder of Steve Domer (Photo) who was killed because he was ~. Tortured and murdered by Darrell Madden a member of the United Aryan Brotherhood, a white supremacist group. It was speculated that Mr. Domer’s murder may have been a gang rite of passage. The murder garnered national attention, somewhat reminiscent of the murder of Matthew Shepard in Laramie, Wyoming in 1998. Darrell Madden could not be charged with a hate crime because Federal and Oklahoma hate crimes laws do not cover sexual orientation. In the 2008 Oklahoma legislative session, five bills were introduced pertaining to hate crime laws but all of them failed. The voice ofthe GLBT community has not been heard at the State Capitol. Activists, advocacy groups and some legislators have failed to get the attention of those elected officials who believe sexual orientation inclusion in our hate crimes law is not needed. We have to consistently voice our outrage to those who remain an obstacle in our fight for equality. ...............Continued See HATE CRIMES Page-4 2 Met~oS~’AR September 2008 Fascism Can Not Be Tolerated Oklahoma An Interview With Ron Marlett by Victor Gorh-~ PSAL~¥h "Let the wordsj~om my mouth and the meditations ofmy heart be a blessing to God’~ "It ~ a shame thatpoliticians can’tpractice what this Psalm says. 3d.y opponent has a history ofusing character assawsination, whisper campaigns, and misinfo~vnation. I refi,se to use those tactics, but rather want tofollow that Psalm’; Ron 3~[arlett. Born in Binger, Oklahoma, Ron Marlett was raised in Union City until he graduated from Union City High School in 1967. He went on to get his degree in social work and began working for Oklahomas Department of Human Services, later becoming a licensed clinical social worker. He met his wife Liz in 1974 While attending OU, and they wi]] proudly celebrate their 25th Anniversary this year. Photo: Ron d~Lm’lett Democrafc Candidatefor State Rep. Dist. 84 against SalO, Kern. Currently employed with Community Pathways Unlimited, he counsels the elderly and disabled in nursing homes across the state. Today he faces the trials and tribulations that come with running for office, ~d does so ~vith pride and optimism. VICTOR: This is sure to be a formidable race. Xgrhat inspired you to run against Sally Kern? RON MARLETT: I have always been suspi- I received a contribution from a gay man living in Latvia, and he said that in today’s society no candidate would ever openly attack blacks using the n word, or refer to women or other ethnic groups in a similar way. Yet gays are considered fair game, and with some people this tactic can get you votes. This is wrong and has to be challenged. VICTOR: What you do think is the purpose ofthis scapegoating ? RON MARLETT: To serve as a distraction from the degradation of freedom and equality, and economic hardship. cious ofextremism on the left or the right, as VICTOR: Other than your support for GLBT both can rob us 0f0ur fre~d6nls~ Over the years equality, do you differ fromMrs. Kern in other ................... ar*e~? .... I read a wonderfiil book called "American Fascists" by Chris Hedges. I was reading that when Sally’s youtube conunents came out. W’hen I heard the comments she made it dawned on me that she had taken positions also taken by fascists. Xhe minute I heard it I decided, ’Tin got to run. This cannot go unchallenged." VICTOR: How did your family feel about that ? RONMARLETT: Without seems to have a fundamental misunderstandhag ofthe Constitution, and the separation Of Church and State. For a legislator to come out and declare themselves a "warrior forJudeo Christianprinciples" is a clear threat to that. The job ofgovernment is to protect the rights ofall religions, to see to it that minorities~ren’t persecuted. RON MARLETT: At first they were shocked, they are now su portive¯ I don t think anyone who runs for o~ce for the first time has any sense ofwhat demands it ~vill make on your life. AA McA~-ey (State Representative District 88) told me it would the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life. VICTOR: Are you convinced now that he’s right? RON MARLETT: I’m convinced yes. I also think families offirst time candidates have no idea ofwhat is involved, what sacrifices have to be made. VICTOR: Do you still think it is worth it? RON MARLETT: I have no doubt whatsoever. It is worth it because if this extremism is not stood up to and challenged America is going m slip further and further towards a fascisQtyl-e dictatorship. Naomi ~31fe, in her book The End ofAmerica;’ lists ten steps that have to be taken to move from democracy to dictatorship, and the Bush administration has accomplished at least hdfofthose. As in Nazi Germany anytime a group is a scapegoat, marginalized, persecutedandin the worst Cme exterminated, they move on to another scapegoat. VICTOR: And on economic issues ? RON MARLETT: I drastically disagree with her in that area as well. She is so tied into the "trickle dmvn" theory ofeconomics. She has no goal, no dreaan or vision for anything to create opportunities for working people to achieve their dreams. VICTOR: I remember when she opposed raising minimum wage when it was $5.15 an hour, claiming that those on minimum wa e needed to better budget their money, g RON MARLETT: V/ell I would challenge her to forfeit all ofher salary in excess ofwhat she would earn .on minimum wage and then get back with us and let us know how well it works. I see people worldng minimum wage jobs that have to Work mor~ than one job]She is woefully out oftouch with these issues~ She further demonstrated that when she voted to remove the sales tax from gold and precious metals while retaining it on groceries. VICTOR: You also grew up in a union household. Can you tell us about that ? .............Continued see MARLETT Page-4 ww~v.metrostarnews.com NetroSTAR 3 RON MARLETT: My father worked as a lineman for Caddo Electric Coop near Binger Oklahoma. He climbed utility poles, working in close contact with 7200 volt wires, sometimes during thunderstorms and made about $1.65 an hour. No matter how well we tried to budget, my family scraped by month by month. When that coop was’successfully unionized by their employees, wages went up, 0aad we began to live more comfortably and were able to attain the American dream, which would not have happened otherwise. Despite what opponents claimed, the Coop continued to operate and rates did not dramatically increase. I feel that organized labor today could play a major part in making the lives ofworking people better. VICTOR: So despite the promises made, do you feel that Oklahoma benefited when Right to Work ~vas passed in 2001 ? Governor Keating claimed we’d get a $75 a week raise. RON MARLETT: They also promised massive manufacturing jobs I have yet to see. I have seen companies leave our state including GM, Delta Faucet and Bridgestone Tires. Clearly, Right to ~Zork was wrong. VICTOR: You are a strong supporter ofpublic education. Howdo you differ from your opponent in that area? RON MARLETT: I’m certain Ms. Kern would like to bring public education to a screeching halt. I understand that she was once a teacher h-~ Oklahonaa City, but she has betrayed her fellow teachers by accusing them of attempting to seduce young children into the homosexual lifestyle, and she has likewise accused librarians. She would support providing vouchers to send their ch~ldre~ to l~rivate religious schools. As for myself, you couldn’t find a stronger supporter ofpublic education. No system is perfect, all systems can improve, however this system has worked well. I am a product of public education. VICTOR: How about the enviromnent ? RON MARLETT: I believe we have a moral responsibility to care for the earth and the environment. Long term use offossil fuels will .harm us more than help us. I would support tax credits for home insulation, hybrio cars, or energy efficient major appliances. I would favor rewarding positive changes. VICTOR: Getting back to your campaign, o oMCC United ~~~ A Metropolitan Community Church Sunday Services @ 11:00 AM 1623 N. Maplewood Tulsa, OK 91.8-838-171.5 www.mcctulsa.org it has garnered national and international attention. Also it represents no.t iust a state house race, but two vasdy different icteologies. RON MARLETT: I may get more e-mails than other candidates, and I doubt ifany other candidate has gotten a contribution from Latvia. But even with this higher profile, you face the same pressures and do the same things, you go tO fund-raisers, you meet people, and knock doors. VICTOR: How has the door knocking gone so far ? RON MARLETT: With door knocking Independent and Democratic households, I’ve only had 2 people state that they would vote for nay opponent. The Democrats are in a slight majority in nay district, and my response from Independents has been extremely encouraging. I have had Republicans assure me they would vote t’or me, and there are even 2 Republican voters displaying my yard signs. I am also encouraged by the number ofyoung voters and/or ne~v voters. On August 30 there will be a Voter Registration Drive & Concert at Elderline Park in Bethany. We hope to see oflot ofhopeful voters there. VICTOR: Sally Kern was unopposed in 2006, and in 2004 was elected by a wide mar~in over a Democratic opponent. Do you mink there have be~n changes in the district and in America that wil! help influence voters to elect you? RON MARLETT: I think things have changed, including a great increase in presidential power that concerns both conservatives and liberals. I think things have gotten worse for all Americans, economically and politicall~; mad it can’t be allowed tO continue. _~ definition of insanity is tocontinue to do what didn’t work in the first place, and to expect a different result. W’e need different ways ofmaking things work. I think the biggest difference between me and nay opponent is that I ~vill fight for everyone’s ffeedora. She has already made it clear in her own words that not all religions or lifestyles are equal. IfI am elected to represent District 84, Ihope this will send a message not only to our state but also to our nation that the pendulum needs to swing the other way, and that our freedorns and equality are important. This could also show candidates that you can proudly take this stand and win. I appeal to the GLBT community and all progressives who want a better Oklahoma, I need money and volunteers. VICTOR: Well I hope you get them, and ~ve wish you all the luck in the world, because there is a lot at stake here. Thanks for running. NOTE: To contact Ron 3darleit see back cover advertiseraent. Local Artist Gives Back By Judy Gabbard Photo: Dennis Olson Dennis Olson a medal winning gymnast and sociology major has made his mark among artists and writers. Dennis attended San Jose State University on a gymnastic scholarship and received a degree from UCLA in Sociology. He has proved his talent without formal training in the arts. A Native American residing in Oklahoma City he has gained international attention through his art shows in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Indianapolis and Germany. Dennis donates proceeds from sales ofhis art and poetry back to the community and to advocacy organizations. Tulsa’s Equality Center is among the many recipients. Dennis has used his talent to improve relationships with our con~nunity by building bridges 3f tini{y: Hi~ talents in sociology and gymnastics has gained Olson respect around the world but he has not stop there. He plans to continue to use art and writing in his pursuit of diversity and equality. Oklahomans for Equality Executive Director, Freddie Owens and his organization believe that the law needs to be revised to include GLBT people and to increase the punishment by changing a first-time offense from a misdemeanor to a felony. "Passing legislation to have a hate-crimes law to inclt[de ~exual orientation is something that the organization has been working on for years," Owens said. "We are really going to beef up our advocacy efforts at thest~ite and local level. We are positioning ourselves to be the premier organization in the state of Oklahoma that deals specifically with these issues." It is our right and obligation to speak out. The tirades of people such as Sally Kern and Brent Rinehart only fuel hatred toward the GLBT community. \Vho will be next? You, a family member, or your next door neighbor? We are all vulnerable and potential targets t’or these hateful acts. At the recent OkEq public forum on hate crimes, Robert Stotle~ the East Ttdsan who was vandalized said. "We are not asking for special privileges, but equality." 4 September 2008 From ~0.95 AskAbo~ Our Suites Californiarulingchanged more than marriage law Shannon Minter, legal director ofthe National Center for Lesbian Rights and lead lawy~’for the successfidgay side in the Calij$rnia same-sex marriage case Photo by Rex l~Vockner The California Supreme Court’s May ruling legalizing same-sex marriage did much more than that. says Shannon Minter. legal director ofthe National Center for Lesbian Rights and lead lawyer for the successful gay side in the California nlarriage case. In an Aug. 2 interview with Los Angdes journalist Karen Ocamb, Minter said: "The fun&- mental-right-to-marry part ofthe holding was extremely significant, but the court’s holding that sexual orientation is a suspect classification was shinning-- completely unprecedented. I think it will forever change the legal landscape for LGBT people in the country; it’s going to have a huge impact on courts in other states and, ultimately, on the federal courts. We are now living in a different legal world because of what the court did2 The court’s determination rneans that any discrimination based on sexual orientation is constitutionally subject to the strictest level ofscrutiW by California courts, which makes it dramatically harder for aW level ofgovernment to defend itsdfin aW arena where gays, lesbians and bisexuals are not treated the same as heterosexuals. A government now has to prow it has a specific "compelling interest" -- rather than a mere "rational basis" -- when it treats GLB people differently in any way. hi another interview; with the Palm Springs gay" magazine The BottomLine on Aug. 1, Minter said that ifthe California ballot measure to amend the state constitution to re-ban saanesex marriage fails in November, it will be a "crushing defeat" for gays’ opponents. "Ifwe defeat this proposition, as I bdieve we will, that victory will resonate across the country," he said. "Not only will marriage in California be secure, but we will have demonstrated Wockner wire service that efforts to politically exploit anti:gay bias no longer work. xare have a chance here in California to deal a crushing defeat to the anti-gay forces that have caused incalculable damage to our community for years. This is our opportunity to make a difference that will go down in history books as a critical turning point." Ellen, Portia get married Minter also talked with Nle BottomLine about his 1996 sex-change operation. "I have been struck by how much more immediate ’unearned’ credibility and respect I get as a completely average-looking man than I did as a visibly masculine-appearing woman," Minter said. "The difference is stark -- whether it is service in a restaurant or on a plane, or appearingm court. Gay man likely to be elected to Congress Jared Polis ofColorado is considered a shoo-in to become the sixth openly gayperson elected to the U.S. Congress, and thefirst open,gay man elected to Congress as a nonincumbent. Campaign photo An openly gay man won the Democratic primary in Colorado’s 2nd Congressional District Aug. 12 and is considered a shoo-in to win the general election in November. Ifhe does, Jared Polis, 33, will become the first openly gay man elected to Congress who was out when elected for the first time. U.S. Rep. Tammy Bal&vin, D-Wis., holds the female distinction in that regard. "At the Millennium March on Washington in 2000, Congressxvoman Tanamy Baldwin told hundreds ofthousands ofLGBT people gathered on the National Mall, ’Ifyou dream ofa world in which there are more openly gay elected officials, then rtm for office ... and you will live in such ~ world,’" said Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund President Chuck Wolfe. "I thought ofthat quote dlis evening when I learned that Rep. Baldwin and Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.) will be joined by another openly gay colleague in the United States House of Representatives." Talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, 50, and actress Portia de Rossi, 35, got married Aug. 16 at their home in Beverly Hills. They are the biggest names to tie the knot since the California Supreme Court ruling legalizing same-sex marriage took effect onJune 16. Reports said 19 people attended the ceremony, including both women’s mothers. De Rossi’s mother came from Australia for the wedding. DeGeneres wore white pants and a white vest. De Rossi wore a big pink dress. DeGeneres had announced their engagement on her TV show the day after die Supreme Court’s May 15 ruling. "Yesterday, ifyou haven’t heard, the California Supreme Court overturned a ban on gay marnage;’ she said. "So I would like to say right now for die first time, I am annou~acing I aan getting married.... I’m so excited. If I’m this emotional now just saying it, I can’t imagine how that’s gonna be, but it’s something dlat I’ve, ofcourse, vce’ve ~vanted to do, and we want it to be legal and we’re just very, very excited:’ In a September 2005 interview with The Advocate, de Rossi said: "I ran into Ellen (again) at a photo shoot about a year ago and she took my breath away. That had never happened to me in my life, where I saw somebody and (experienced) all of those things you hear about in songs and read about in poetry. My knees were weak. It was amazing. And it ~vas very hard for me to get her out ofmy mind after that. And then when I saw her again that night (at the VH1 awards show) we started talking and that’s that. W-e just were kind ofsupposed to be together. ~lat’s my side ofthe story. I really, really hated all the pain I put (then girlfriend) Francesca (Gregorini) through, and I really didn’t want to hurt her. But I just couldn’t ignore the feelings I had for Ellen: ...........Continued see POLIS Page-7 Directory ofLocal Animal Shelters Tulsa Shelter 918-669-6299 Broken Arrow 918-259-8311 OKC 405 297 3104 Muskogee 918 686 7297 Stillwater 405 372 0334 Coweta 918-486 2137 Siloam Springs 479 524 6535 Claremore 918 341 1260 Sand Springs 918 246 2543 Jenks 918 299 6311 Owasso 918-272-4965 Sapulpa 918 227 2722 Norman 405 321 6725 Collinsville 918 371 1000 Courtesy ofwww.labrescue.net (3 NetroSTAR September 2008 Dallas Convention & Visitors Bureau annonces "Win a Trip to Dallas" sweepstakes winner DALLAS, TX (PRAug. 5th) __ The Dallas Convention & Visitors Bureau (DCVB) announced today the winner ofits "Win a Trip to Dallas" sweepstakes. Yvette Roper ofJamaica , NYwas selected to receive a vacation package to Dallas. The promotion is part ofa new integrated marketing communications campaign that targets the lesbian, ga~; bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. The campaign launched in April at a Dallas press tour that included members of the domestic and international gay press. Ms. Roper will receive two roundtrip American Airlines tickets to Dallas and a two-day, threenight stay at the Crmvne Plaza Hotel Dallas Market Center. In addition, Roper xviLl receive two tickets to attend Gay Day at Six Flags Over Texas, compliments ofthe Dallas Voice. A gift basket will await the winner at the hotel, complete with goodies to make their Dallas visit memorable. Ms. Roper and a guest will travel to Dallas in September and experience Dallas Pride fi~sthand. 2-he city celebrates 25 years ofPtide wheu the Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade marches through the Oak Lawn neighborhood on September 21, 2008. "TMs promotion is part ofour ’Try Dallas on for Size’ campaign;’ said Phillip Jones, president & CEO ofthe DCVB." Dallas is a diverse and vibrant city, with more than $12 billion in development that adds additional dining, shopping, cultural and entertainment options every year. September weather is perfect for ,vatching one of the largest pride parades in the nation, with participants that include city officials, community leaders and thousands of supporters. We look forward to showcasing our city’s ’Live Large. Think Big’ way oflife." For more information on Dallas Pride, or to discover more about how Dallas reaches out to the LGBT community, visit wv~wc.glbtdallas. com. Dallas is a destination that inspires big ideas and promises many memorable experiences. This richly diverse city is home to some of the best shopping and dining in America ; one Of the largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender populations; and outstanding performing and visual arts in the largest contiguous urban arts district in the nation. Dallas is an authentic, sophisticated and distinctive gatewa): For additional LGBT visitor information, please visit ~z~v.glbtdallas.com. US Border Agency Says It Can Seize Laptops Agam Shah, IDG News Service Travelers beware: U.S. agents now have the authority to seize and retain laptops indefinitely, according to a new policy detailed in documents issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. As part of border search policy, government agents are now authorized to seize electronic devices and inspect documents in them, the document states. The electronic devices might include laptops, cell phones, portable music players or storage devices such as portable hard drives. Agents with U.S. Customs and Border Protection will also be allowed to translate and share documents with other government agencies. The DHS document, issued July 16, appears to state publicly a policy that has already existed. Laptops and electronic devices have been subject to search in the past, and travelers have reported not getting their devices back. The policy has drawn strong criticism from lawmakers and nonprofit groups, who charged that the searches were invasive and a violation ofan individual’s privacy rights. Computers contain a vast amount ofprivate information about family, finances and health, which could be easily copied and stored in government databases, the Hectronic Frontier Foundation has complained. ~e policy document states that being able to examine documents and electronic devices is. crucial for "detecting information concerning terrorism, narcotics smuggling.., contraband including child pornography, and.., other import or export control laws." The new DHS policies allow customs agents to analyze the contents oflaptops without any suspicion of~vrongdoing, U.S. Senator Russ Feingold said in a statement. "The policies that have been disclosed are truly alarming;’ Feingold wrote. The policy could blur the distinction between "search" and ’seizure; which could also allow DHS officials to steal personal documents from laptops it has retained, Feingold wrote. -he American Family Association called a boycott of McDonald’s The organization is upset that the fast-food giant has joined the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, given it mone); and put one of its executives on the group’s board. The AF,A says its nearly 3 million supporters dont want to sp,e,n~t money at establishments that actively promote the homosexual agenda, including homosexual marriage." Broad and historic inclusion ofLGBT issues in proposed Democratic National Platform Never before in our country’s history has there been a nationalpartypla~omn that is so indusive ofour entire community.... Is thepla~ormperfect? No.... Is it agoodfoundation ? Unequivocallyyes." -- Rea Carey, Executive Director, National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund Phota: U..S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin (D-~Vi3) WASHINGTON, DC (PR) __ National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund Executive Director Rea Carey spoke today at an audio press conference about the Democratic National Platform, which was hosted by the National Stonewall Democrats and featured U.S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), a member ofthe Platform Committee. Carey talked about the historic Significance ofthe proposed Democratic National Platform as it relates to issues impacting the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT)community. Statement by Rea Carey, Executive Director National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund "The vision put forth in the 2008 Democratic National Platform is historic in its embrace of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans. Never before in our country’s history has there been a national party platform that is so inclusive ofour entire community. "It is a forward-looking platform in so many areas, including those relating to LGBT people. The Task Force Action Fund is certainly pleased to see that in the opening paragraph of the section tided ’A More Perfect Union,’ for the first time the platform explicitly calls for an end to discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. This demonstrates the success and unprecedented partnership between LGBT advocates and courageous public leaders, including Representative Baldwin, in educating the public and policymakers on the need for fully inclusive anti-discrimination protections. "The plank that includes a comprehensive Employment Non-Discrimination Act recognizes the LGBT community’s call ~br fully inclusive legislation, a critical element ifwe are to have legislation that protects all of us, equally. "Is the platform perfect? No. There is much more work to be done, especially to improve issues of family recognition. However, is it a good foundation? Unequivocally yes." Wolfe called Polis’ likely win in the heavily Democratic district an important gay milestone. "It sends an unmistakable signal that voters are willing to consider gay people as leaders at the highest level ofgovernment, and brings us closer to the kanerican ideal ofa truly representative government," he said. In his victory speech, Polis introduced his partner, made reference to being gay, and said, "I always wo}ried that would get in the way (of) giving back and contributing to our society:’ A millionaire who made his money in online ventures, Polis spent $5 million ofhis mvn funds in the primary campaign. If elected, he ~vill fill the seat ofRep. ~4ark Udall, who is running for the U.S. Senate. Polls would become the sixth openly gay person to serve in the House of Representatives, following in the footsteps ofBaldwin, Frank, and former Reps. Gerry Studds, D-Mass., who is deceased, Steve Gunderson, R-Wis., andJim Kolbe, R-Ariz. Frank, 68, is now the powerful chairman of the House Financial Services Committee. Frank told the Denver Post, "We are reaching that point where among Democratic voters sexual orientation ofa candidate is not a factory He also said that once he’s no longer the only gay male congressman, he won’t feel as much pressure to be a role model and plans to start smoking cigars in public again. "I can start indulging some bad habits;’ Frank told the Post. "Let the young gay people find someone else to emulate." Indonesian transgender woman wins U.S. asylum A 42-year-old transgender woman from Indonesia won asylum in the U.S. based on Indonesia’s treatment oftransgender people, the Jakarta Post reported Aug. 11, citing activist reports. Michelle Saras~vati, who was a man named Michael Setiabudi until 2006, had been in the U.S. since 1998, remaining in the country illegally when his work visa expired in 2001. As a gay man, he lost an asylum claim in 2005. Saraswati then reapplied for asylum as a transgender woman in 2006 and won her case at the San Francisco Immigration Court. The Post said Saraswati convinced the court that Indonesia lacks legal protections and employment opportunities for transgender people. www.metrostarnews.com NetroSTAR 7 ,~thith the heat of summer coming to a close, this season marks what many consider to be white wine’s last hurrah. Lots of people seem to want to drink more reds in the colder months so we’re listing some cool white wines that don’t live in the spotlight and iust happen to start with the letter V’ And this month, we are all about the ’V! Viognier [vee-oh-nay] For those who haven’t experienced Viognier, the first glass is quite a revelation. This wine xvill embody al! or some of the following: honeysuckle, citrus blossoms, lychee, ripe melon, freshly picked peaches or apricots and ripe pear. Winemaker Craig Williams, from Joseph Phelps Vineyards, says Viognier contains floral compounds called Terpens. They are also found in Muscat and Riesling. So, think of the most aromatic Muscat or Riesling you’ve ever encountered, then concentrate it and you have Viognier. The majority of French Viogniers are sold as Vin de Pays in the Languedoc. In the Pdaone wine region, the grape is often blended with Roussanne, Marsanne and Grenache blanc. In the Northern Rhone the grape is sometimes blended with Chardonnay. Since the late !980s, plantings of Viognier in the United States and Canada have increased dramatically. The Rhone Rangers of the mid 1980s help spark the increased interest in Viognier in California and now Californigs Central Coast is the leading producer. Cline 2007 California Yulamba Y’ series 2007 Austrailia White Knight 2006 California Verdelho [vehr-DEH-lyoh] IVb&_DEIP,A’S most widely planted white-wine grape, Verdelho is classified as a noble or classic grape. On the Portuguese mainland, it is recommended in the DAO region’s ,vhite wines and in the production of white port. Some Portuguese l~mles call this Gouveto, Vouvrav The Godello ~rape~gr6wn in northwest Spain ~ is believed torte the ~ame variety as Verdelho. Wines from the to The grape has bee~ successful in the vineyards of styles from ofAustralia, parfieularly the Hunter Valley tages In region, Langhorne Creek and the Swan Valley. Australian versions of Verdelho are noted for their intense flavors with hints of lime honeysuckle. California is this varietal as well. St. Amant 2005 Mar~ Verdejo [ver-day-ho] This is a has long region about the 11 th Century. For winemakin on Verdejo. As a consequence, In white wines from the Rueda region were ognized by a Denominaci6n de Origen Wmeslabeled Rueda must contain 50 Y0 ,s Verdejo" must contain 85% Verdejo, and often 100% Verdejo. Verdejo wines are aromatic, often soft and full~bbdied. They can be somewhat reminiscent OfSauvignon blanc wines ftom a ~varm climate. Garci Grande 2006 Spain Marquis de Riscat 2007÷~Spain rather than chenin 3roduced in bulk vintners and post-teen party-goers Good Vouvray i, firm, and delicate, character. France Picard 2006 France ~o to your favorite wine and purchase a bottle or : food & wine with friends and for yourself D’ This writer also bar tends and hosts wine & food events known in town as the Wine Enthusiasts ofTulsa. Rqgrences indude: the ~4BC’s ofwine byJames Laubd wwua ~,VineSpectatomom www.FoodandFVine.com www.PVikipedia.orgwww.77:d’Vorldl~deWine.com This months recipe: Springfield, Ill DIRECTIONS MAKE THE SAUCE: Set up a double boiler or se~ a medium-sized stainless-steal bowl over a pot 0fsimmering water. Check to make sure the bottom ~Ho~v;eshoe Sandwich" Recipe for Horseshoe Sandwich 2 slices of’toast ( 1 slice oftoast is a Worcestershire ,vith Salt to taste. To avoid a stringy sauce, it is ponyshoe) topped with a slice ofham, important to constandy stir the Ch~ese and be hamburger, turkey or chicken. Cover in Cheese sauce a~d topped with s}tre tha.t the water is not boiling, but rather french ~ies. sunmenng. Cheese Sauce 3 ctws Shredded Cheddar Cheese (some people prefer white sharp cheddar) 1/2 cup Beer 2 e~yokes 2 tablespoons butter i re,pooh Vgorcestershire sauce salt & pepper to taste COOK THE MEAT: Whichever you choose, just cook in the usual way ASSEMBLE THE DISH: For each serving, place two slices ofthe toast on a large plate and top each with the meat. Pour the rarebit sauce over the meat and top the sauce with French fries. Serve immediately. 8 Net~°oST~kR September 2008 Wockner News Service Lesbos residents lose ’lesbian’ lawsuit Three residents of the Greek islaaad of Lesbos who filed suit to reclaim the word "lesbian" and stop the group Homosexua! and Lesbian Community of Greece (OLKE) from using it lost their case July 22. The plaintiffs claimed the alleged theft of "lesbian" from the island’s residents amounted to "psychological and moral rape." .An Athens court found the claim baseless mad ordered the trio to pay $363 in costs. Plaintiff Dimitris Lanabrou vmved to appeal the ruling. Gay women are believed to have adopted the word in memory of Sappho, a poet who lived on the island in the sixth century B.C. and ~vrote about love between women. Con}ugal visits blocked for Costa Rican gay inmates Costa Rica’s Constitutional Court ruled Aug. 10 that gay inmates have no right to conjugal visits. The ruling came in the case ofa former inmate who had been allowed such visits with a current inmate, only to see them halted later by prison officials, However, reports said another, similar case is still before the court, but ~vith different arguments. That case claims it is a violation ofim~qates’ right to sexual freedom to restrict conjugal visits to heterosexual couples. Panama legalizes gay sex Panamanian President Martin Torrijos Espino signed a decree July 29 repealing a 1949 law that criminalized sodomy trader penalty ofa $500 fine or jail time. The move followed protests by the gay group New Men and Women ofPanama and other human-rights defenders, local media said. The decree, issued by the Ministry of Health and also signed by Health Minister Rosario E. Turner, said the ban was at odds with the Panamanian Constitution and international htmaan-rights treaties Panan~a has signed. It also said the law conflictedwith the Health Ministry’s policy to "maintain respect for the sexual preferences ofeach person, without the existence ofany type ofdiscrimination" in the operation of its sexually transmitted diseases programs. According to Amnesty International, 11 nations in Central America, South America and the Caribbean continue to ban gay sex -- Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago. All of the countries are former British colonies. Georgian gay leader discusses invasion Georgian gay activist Paata Sabelashvili, head of the Tbilisi-based GLBT group Inclusive Foundation, communicated with San Francisco blogger Michael Petrelis on Aug. 11. The country, a former Soviet republic, has been at war with Russia since being attacked Aug. 7. A ceasefire agreement was signed on Aug. 15, but some fighting has continued. "Let me thank you for expressing solidarity in this difficuk moment," Sabelashvili wrote. "Unfortunately, I have not been able to take good care ofthe NGO (nongovernmental organization) these days as I was helping out journalists who covered the events. I was with Danish TV2 journalists as close to capital of South Ossetia as 6 km today. Bombs have been dropped around us. We saw 3 jets and heard more, as well as the noise from more than 20 charges being released." "It is close to panic situation," Sabdashvili said. "I am now sitting in the office and try to get (hold of) family and friends. Mobile phones are down. I am not sure ~vhen will Internet go off. Russian troops are stationed 20 km west to capital Tbilisi and people are fleeing the city. I do not know what is on invaders’ mind but it is really bad xvhat is on in town. Only reason our Web site still works is that it is placed outside Georgia and does not have Georgiaff domain. "It is not so easy for me to make clear points. So, obviously, I need to stop writing and go back to why I came to office: to back up all our workfiles in case office is bombed. I thank you for thinking of us and I wish peace to all ofyou no matter where you are. By the way, we are out and publicly visible -- you can see that in our magazine as well." Xhe group’s Web site is inclusive-foundation. org. Estonia considers samesex partnersh’p 1aw Estonia’s Justice Ministry is drafting a same-sex partnership laxv, with plans that it come into ~0rce in 2009. The proposed statute is expected to cover such areas as inheritance, property rights and citizenship. Apoll by the nevcspaper Eesti P~ievalehelt sugests the measure willt~p~ass Parliament, as long as ~t doesn t include adopnon rights. President defends gay rights in draft Ecuadorean constitution President Rafael Correa has defended a new draft Ecuadorean constitution that grants same-sex couples the rights of marriage, E1 Teldgrafo reported Aug. 1. Photo: Ecuadorean President Rafael Correa. Photo: Presidencia de la Rep(~blica del Ecuador tion based on race, sex, sexual orientation, etc" The document faces a popular vote Sept. 28. Speaking in the city ofMonteverde, Correa said: "Jesus ofNazareth never preached hatred, homophobia or segregation; instead he kne~v to say, ’Love one another.’ "It is false that (the draft) is recognizing as family the union ofhomosexuals. What we are doing is recognizing the dignity ofall people without discrimina- "Let’s hope, now that there’s been so much talk about moral incompatibilities bet~veen the new constitution and the Gospel, sometimes utilizing falsehoods, that we also can talk with equal force about the profound incompatibility ofthe social situation -- of that inequality, of that existing social injustice -- with the Gospels," Correa said. A poll released Aug. 5 found that 47 percent ofcitizens plan to vote for the constitution and 31 percent plan to reject it. A "yes" vote ofmore than 50 percent is needed for the document to take effect. The poll questioned 1,160 citizens nationally and had an error margin of4 percent and a confidence level of95 percent. Hate crimes mar Europride in Stockholm A series ofhate crimes marred the 10-day Europride cdebration, held this year in Stocltholm from July 25 to Aug. 3. OnJuly 27, two men ~vho had just kissed were stabbed and robbed oftheir cell phones in the Tantolunden area by attackers who shouted anti-gay slurs. One of the victims was seriously injured. OnJuly 30, two men were assaulted outside a 7-Eleven store in the downtown area by attackers who shouted homophobic insults, q-hey suffered minor injuries. Police later arrested three alleged assailants, ages 17 to 20. Police classified both incidents as hate crinqes, said the Stockholm publication The Local. In addition, three Lutheran churches were vandalized because the Church of Sweden took part in Europride. The buildings and grounds were plastered with flyers condemning homosexuality and the pride events. Xhe flyers described the perpetrators as "orthodox Christians: On Aug. 2, about halfa million people turned out for the Europride parade, despite drenching rainfall. Ecuador draft constitution creates same-sex unions A new draft Ecuadorean constitution approved by a special assembly in July will grant same-sex couples the rights of marriage. The document faces a popular vote on Sept. 28. "Ihe hierarchy of the Ecuadorean Roman Catholic Church has denounced the draft because of the recognition ofgay unions and its apparent failure to ban abortion outright[ Gays arrested in Saudi Arabia Fifty-five young men were arrested at a gay dance party in Saihat, Saudi Arabia, July 28, local media reported. Col. Abdul Aziz Soleiman, spokesman for security forces in the Eastern Region, said the party took place on a farm and that two of the detainees were wearing women’s makeup and dancing for the other attendees. The Propagation ofVirtue and Prevention of Vice Unit took part in the raid, reports said. Saudi authorities have raided other gay parties in recent months, according to the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission. w,~.metrostamews.com MetroSTAR 9 Pagan Pride exhibit at the De m% R. Neill Equality Center TULSA, OK (PR) Tile Dennis R. Neill Equality Center art gallery will host its monthly First q’hursday meet-the-artist reception from 6-9pm, Thursday, September 04, 2008, for the opening of it’s ne~v exhibit, Pagan Pride. Fly Over Trees q-his is the second year in a row the Equality Center has hosted the art show, consisting of Pagan/Heathen artists, in conjunction ~vith q~e Oldahoma Pagan/Heathen Alliance, Inc. (OPHA). This year’s Gallery show will be expanded to include even more art mediums. There will be watercolours, acrylics, oil on canvas, digital art, photography, day sculpture, custom glass, textile art, and more. OPHA has gathered together artists within the Pagan and Heathen comnaunities to showcase themes that have been given birth through the artist’s spirituality and reflection on die world. Autumn Dancers More information on the artists and the Pagan/Heathen Alliance can be found on the web at http://www.oklapha.org. The reception will be generously catered by donation by Brother’s Pizza. The exhibit will remain up dirough the month of September, and can be viewed Monday thru Saturday from 3-9pro. The Dennis R. Neill Equality Center is located at 621 E. 4th St., in downtown Tulsa. More info can be found on the web at okeq.org. Beloved Daughter This monthly event is hosted by Oklahoman’s~r Equality (OkEq). OkEq seeks equal rightsfor Lesbian, Ga3~ Bis~al & ~’ansgender (LGBT) individuals andfamilies through advocacy, education, programs, alliances, and the operation ofthe Dennis R. Neill Equality Cente~ Tulsa, Ok 74119 @The Ledo, Oklahoma City @ The Copa, Oklahoma City @ Bamboo Lounge, Tulsa @Angles, Oklahoma City @Club Majestic, Tulsa @ Finishline, Oklahoma City w~v.metrostarnews.com t~÷t~°oSTAR 11 "Following on the heels of the very successfu! Centennial Celebration last year, we are looking forward, with great anticipation, to the second century of the Oklahoma State Fair," said Tim O’Toole, president and general manager of the Oklahoma State Fair. "This year’s event is shaping up to rival what we offered last year. We are planning a very large and LIVE! party for the people of Oklahoma." ~ae 2008 Oklahoma State Fair° LIVE! returns xvith four premier attractions: Disney’s High School Musical: q-he Ice Tour, Beauty & the Bulls, PRCA Rodeo Action and Extreme Monster Truck Nationals. LIVE opens with Disney’s High School Musical: The Ice Tour School is cool again when Disney’s High School Musical: The Ice Tour is in session. Starting Thursday, September 11, the 10-show ice production of High School Musical and High School Musical 2 featuring the songs and dance from both smash hit movies and a cast ofworld-class skaters will keep guests cheering for more. Tulsa State Fair begins September 25 and will run through October 5th. q-he 2007 run had an attendance of 987,057. Ticket Prices: Adults: $8.00 Seniors aged 62+: $4.00 Military Personnel: $4.00 with valid ID Children 6-12:$5.00 Children 5 and under: FREE! Advance Tickets went on sale August 1 lth, September 22nd at area QuikTrip, Reasors, and Homeland !ocations, as well as the Expo Square Ticket Ot~ce. $20 for a book of 4 gate achnission tickets. $10 for a book of 20 ride tickets. ~]ae Community Stage will host a variety of entertainment throughout the 11 day run, 33 artists in all. Paid events following the rodeo will include country artists Rodney Atldns, October 2, Pat Green October 3, and Gary Allen October 4. Disney Highschool Musical will run September 25-28. Country Star Cris Cagle Beer Garden shows will include a popular Oklahoma band, the Stars. Rockandcountryroll Hurricane Mason, SeXtion 8, Red Dirt Rangers, Jumpstart, Mojo Dogs, eleven groups in all will keep you entertained. Boyz II Men will perform on the Oklahoma Main Stage Sept 27, 8pm, Oak Ridge Boys Sept 28, Cris Cagle Sept 30th 8pro and eleven other popular stars. ROCK RED NORTH SEEKING NEWLOCATION By Victor Gorin Photo: Chuck Longacre, Outreacb Educato? ~t Red Rock North For over 5 years Red Rock North has served the GLBT community and those infected or affected by HIV at their current location at 2240 N.W. 39th Street, an area long kalown in OKC as the 39th Street Strip. HIV Outreach educators Chuck Longacre, Randy Shanahan and Mike Maus, along with director Connie Motleyprovide free HIV testing and counseling, which clients often need regardless oftheir test results. Recently they have begun a support group for those living with or affected by HIV on Tuesday nights at 5:30 p.m. In addition there is now a Supper Club on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays as well, providing those individuals with a non alcoholic socia[activity. Red Rock is a statewide nonprofit organization (50 lc3) headquartered in Oklahoma City at 4400 N. Lincoln, with facilities in Tulsa along with smaller communities including Chandler, Elk City and H Rent, which helpsprovide a much n~eded rural outreach. Co~l~ined with standard forms ofoutreach ( word ofmouth, advertising and networking with organizations), many clients are reached through the Internet, with counselors communicating in gay chatrooms answering questions and encouraging those at risk to be tested. This ne~v outreach has grown so that around 10% ofthose coming in have been reached by cyberspace. Clients are provided an oral test which is completed in around 20 minutes. The quick results can sometimes show a false positive result, so those testing positive receive an additional blood test to be conclusive. The tests are very important, not only to prevent transmission of HIV to others, but also so that those infected can begin treatment which often can enable them to stay healthy. According to recent CDC estimates, almost i out of4 ofwith HIV infected don’t know they are infected In addition to counseling, Red Rock provides free condoms, lubes, dental dams and other preventative items, as well as offering education. While offering the supplies and facts, counselors at Red Rock recognize emotional factors that come into play including the complexities ofrelationships, selfesteem issues, and homophobia. Since a year ago the proportion of their clients testing positive has doubled, showing a clear need for more a~vareness. As Chuck Longacre puts it, "You just have to tell them ~vhat the risks are and let them make their own decisions, to empower them with the facts to encourage safe sex practices.’ As ofpress time it isn’t certain where the ne~v location for Red Rock North will be, although hopefi~ y it could be nearby to best serve their current clientele. However, they are still in operation, and are still encouraging those at risk to be tested. They are also willing to speak to interested groups about testing and their other work in this area. For more information call 405 524 6500, then dial 200 for the operator. Neil Patrick Harris wants to represent ’normal’ gays W-ockner wire service Gay actor Neil Patrick Hare’is. GLAADphoto Openly gay actor Neil Patrick Harris from TV’S How I Met Yohr Mother tells Out magazine in its September issue that he wants to be a role model for normal gay people. "I’m striving to be an example of normalcy," Harris said. "Because I’m noticed as an actor, people are aware ofwhat’s happening in my life.... I’m a big proponent of monogamous relationships regardless of sexuality, and I’m proud of how the nation is steering toward that. ~aen you can look around and say, ’I really deeply feel like I’m in love with this person, there are people who feel the same thing, and those models are normal.’ The ’normal’ couples were sort of in the shadows for the past 15 or 20 years because you sort of needed other people to come forward and speak out." Out magazine’s 3day 2007coven In a more lighthearted moment, Harris told Out he thinks CNN anchorman Anderson Cooper is dreamy and is not a Candidate for outing. "He’s dreamy. Just dreamy," Harris said. ’Tve been a fan of his since season I ofThe Mole. I just thought he was so cool when he talked in this cool, low, secret-agent voice ~- ’If you can accomplish this task...’" Harris continued: "Listen, no one can tell anyone how big their steps should be or when they can take them. You can take issue with someone making overtly denying statements, and you can take issue with people straightup presenting themselves as someone that they’re not -- because I think that’s kind of shady and not very stand-up. But you can’t fault someone for going through the process at their own time." In May 2007, Out put two models on its cover holding pictures of Cooper and Jodie Foster in front of their faces above the words, "The Glass Closet: Why the Stars Won’t Come Out and Play." Cyndi Lauper: I had to come out as straight Pop singer Cyndi Lauper told The Times of London on Aug. 2 that she had to come out as straight. "My sister was gay, my best friends were gay, so I figured I had to be gay; she said. "So I did everything they did. I tried kissing girls. But it didn’t feel right for me and eventually I was forced to come out as a heterosexual." Lauper also launched a broadside against George W. Bush. "When I hear people like George Bush talk about the gay community being anti-American it makes my blood boil," she said. "The guy who saved the Vghite House, one of the heroes who crashed that plane on 9/11, was gay -- the rugby player Mark Bingham, who died on United 93. And does Bush ever mention that ? ... That gay guy saved his lousy ass:" "12 ~etroSTAR September 2008 ifest > enteAainm t Hadrian Gay Emperor By Arifa Akbar His attempt to fortify the Roman Empire is well lra~own. But an exhibition focuses on another side of the man The bust is classically Roman, the face imperious. But this is no ordinary emperor: As a major new exhibition at the British Musenm makes dear, Publius Aelius Traianus Hadrianus was not 0nly a peacemaker who pulled his soldiers out of modernday Iraq. He was also the ilrst leader of Rome to make it clear that he wa~ gay. Hadrian: EiTapire and Conflict will see the bust make pilgrimages to both ends of HadriaNs x~htl, the first time it has left: the British Museum since being found in the Thames 200 years ago. But it is the singular life-story of the gay emperor d~at is likely to capture the interest of most visitors. ~rer being made emperor AD117, he inherited a Roman Empire in its prime, which had thrived on a policy of endless expansion and conquest. His first move, within hours of coronation, was to withdraw his troops from Mesopotamia, now Iraq, and fortify the empire~ boundaries by building his eponymous wall in northern England and others in the Danube and the Rhine valleys, ushering in a ne~v era of peace. The reign that followed can be traced through 200 ancient treasures, many ofwhich have never been display in Britain. Several of the artefacts relate to his male consort, Andnous, who accompanied him on his travels around the empirel These items include a poem written on papyrus, featuring the two men hunting together, and new finds that include memorials to the dead lover at Hadrian’s villa in Tivoli. .Although it was not uncommon for his predecessors to have taken gay lovers alongside a female spouse, Hadrian was unique in making his love "official" in a xvay that no other emperor had before him. Are you going to California to get married? Send us your wedding announcement with photo’s. To: starnews@sbcglobal.net We will include you in the Metro Star wedding section. Your contact info must be included. ~.metrostamews.com ~÷troSTAR 13 by Donald Pile and Ray Williams SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS AND WAS PRESIDENT LINCOLN GAY? "~tbraham Lincoln PresidentialMuseum &Library" ¯ Springfield is the Capital of Illinois and also the resting place ofour 16th President. It is located 100 miles north ofSt. Louis on Interstate 55. q-he Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library opened in downtown Springfield three years ago to huge crowds every day. On weekends, tourists come from all over to visit and on weekdays schoo! children are bussed in so it is busy all the time. The Museum is in one building and the Library is directly across the street. Was our 16th President gay or bi? For some good information on that subject, we suggest you read THE INTIMATE WORLD OF ABRAHAM LINCOLN by C. A. Tripp. The renowned psychologist offers an entirely ne~v perspective on our most enigmatic president. It is the new "bombshell" 0fa book asking a startling question: W-as Lincoln gay? While downtown, visit Lincoln’s Springfield home as well as the old State House. Springfield is full ofhistory and among the many things to see are the Vachel Lindsay Home which is the 1879 birthplace ofthis native Springfield poet/artist. Also visit the Lincoln Depot where Lincoln departed his beloved Springfield for the Presidency, the Executive Governor’s Mansions, the Illinois State Capitol, the Lincoln-Herndon Law Office where Lincoln practiced law from 1842 to 1852 and the Dana-Thomas House which is one ofFrank Lloyd Wright’s finest prairie-style homes. One would think that this house was built in the 1950’S or 1960’S but it was actu~ly built between 1902 and !904. It has 15 rooms and is spread out over a halfblock area. Luckily the owner sold the property to a Publishing CompaW in the 1940’S with all the furniture intact and then in turn sold it to the State of Illinois in the 1980’S with the furniture still intact so this is the only Frank Lloyd Wright house with all furnishings intact. Even ifyou are not into the arts and crafts design movement, this is a must see tour. Other sites to visit are the Illinois Fire Museum, Illinoi~ State Museum, Illinois State Military Museum, Illinois State Police Heritage Foundation Museum and E&vards Place, which is a beautifully preserved Italianate mansion ~vhich was built in 1833 which is now part of the Springfield Art Association. Not tired ofwalkingyet? Then also visit the Air Combat Museum, the Lawrence Memorial Library, the World War Illinois Veterans Memorial, Daughters ofUnion Veterans ofthe Civil War Museum, Grand Army’ofthe Republic Memorial Museum and ofcourse no visit to Springfield would be complete without going to the Lincoln Tomb which is located in the Oak Ridge Cemetery just north ofdowntown. You can take a tour thru the mausoleum to visit the final resting place of President Lincoln and his wife. It will take you several days just to visit everything in Springfield so ifyou have just a couple ofdays, be sure and check out everything on line to make your major list ofplaces to visit. There are a lot of restaurants in the city. They are famous for their "horseshoe sandwiches2 which is bread, topped with french fries and your choice ofbeef, turkey or chicken and then a nice blended cheese sauce on top. Although it is called a sandwich you have to eat it with a fork. Be sure and try one ofthem while you are there. For nightlife, we always enjoy the Station House Bar at 306 East ~Fashington downtown. ~Ilae owner and bartenders are extremely friendly and make out oftowners always feel welcome. It is just the right size of a bar..., not huge yet not cramped. They have a side room the same size as the main room xvhen the crowd gets really big. They have a great rectangular bar in the center where it is easy to see and tall to everybody. They have been there for several years. Did we mention that everybody there is extremely friendly? Other gay bars seem to come and go in Springfield but the Station House is always there. They usually have quite a few events going on all the time. There is no smoking in aW bar or restaurant in the entire State of Illinois (the 19th State to have a no-smoking policy) so everybody is certainly glad about that! The MCC Church is located at 50! West Monroe and their website is ww~v.heartlandcommunitymcc. org. There are several other churches in the city that welcomes gays and lesbians. Springfield is a very progressive and liberal-minded community. So ~vhether you visit Springfield for a day, a couple of days or a week, you will find plenty of things to see and do. You can take great day trips within 60 miles to visit also. The cities ofBloomington, Peoria and Decatur offer a lot ofinteresting places to visit also. ~ae airport is just to the north of tmvn so ifyou’re flying in you can pick a rental auto right there. Shopping, sight-seeing, dining, nightlife, Springfield has it all and more. The historical things to see and do in Springfield are really mind boggling! Just the Lincoln factor alone makes it all worthwhile! Before going to Springfield be sure and check out a few websites including, www.visit-springfieldillinois. com and www.alplm.org/home. html for the Lincoln Museum. There are dozens ofmainstream motels and hotels in the greater Springfield area to stay. Always remember to have fun when traveling, meet new people and talk to everyone! "Lincoln Bronze Statue" Getting Information Before Traveling By Donald Pile and Ray Williams A lot oftimes when visiting a new city, state or an area that you are not familiar with, where can you find information about it ? \Veil, sur- Prisingly there are several great sources. Trave! books of course are the number one ideal thing to read. Just check out a few at the local library and do your research before traveling. ~rrite down all the information, addresses and phone numbers that you think you might need. If you want to tour museums, galleries, historical sights or whatever just be sure and find out when they are open and their hours. There is nothing worse than driving someplace only to see a closed sign. Reading travel columns in both gay as well as straight publications also gives a good insight on xvhat to see and do. The writers have actually been to those places and give a better perspective on what to see aaad do. Almost all travelers are interested in different things to do, be it sports, arts, fine dining, sight-seeing or whatever so each traveler really is a very spe,cial and unique person. Many gay travelers don t even hav-e a desire to go to a gay bar When traveling. They are just interested in doing so many other things. In our travels to major resort cities it seems as thou a lot ofgays just stay right in their resort and take advantage ofthe social activities that they offer there. You can also find great.ideas about a place by just "talking to people. On a flight not too longago a friend ofours happen to mention to the flight attendant that he was going to Atlanta and had never been there before2 ~e flight attendant was ex~emei~ friendly; told him that he flies there all the time and has to stay over a few days mad wrote down several restaurants, bars and museums for him to visit. Sometimes the person sitting next to you has some ideas on where to visit and dine. In restat,~,rants as well a,s, bars, ifyou just take the time to talk to people you will be surprised how much information you can get from the locals. Bartenders seem to always know where the locals go and where not to go, Ifyou are going someplace really different, like the Grand-Canyon, Ye-llowstone or places like that then head down to your local library and check out some videos on your destination. Most ofthese scenic places really offer so much to See that you need to narrow it down to just the best parts that you want to see. And of course the Internet is still one ofyour best tools to use before traveling. Almost every city, state, museums, galleries, historical attractions now have their own website so you can visit and obtain the vital information that you need to know about before traveling. Many times you can purchase tickets to these p!aces you want to visit right on line before takin~ offon your trip. Both the Convention anti Visitor’s Bureaus websites for cities and states really offer a lot of ideas on what to do when visiting them and the surrounding area. Many times local business will even advertise on their websites with coupons for restaurants and the different places to visit, so be sure and pick up a copy of the local newspaper to see what newis happening. 14 M~t~oSTAR September 2008 v~w,~.metrostamews.com ~et~oSTAR 15 Participate in the iarS;est LGBT Corn[]unity Survey in history, and help demonstrate the Everyone who completes the survey by Sept 14, 2008 wi~! be entered into a drawing to win one of FiVE iP0d Shuffles or the 6rand Prize of TWO free airline tickets fr0~0 any of the participating airline’s destinations in the 48 continental U.S. States, plus Canada, Mexico and the Restrictions apply. by Jack Fertig September 2008 "Stand up for yourself, Virgo!" A Sun-Saturn conjunction in Virgo sounds like hard work and criticism. This one harmonizes a dangerously boisterous Mars-Jupiter square, bringing focus and purpose to high energies that could otherwise be squandered. Cladfy your goals, work with others, and be open to criticism, and you can achieve almost anything! ARIES [March 20 -April 19): Your leadership Skills can shine through if you’re a good follower. Let others take the lead, and be willing to work with them. Your suggestions and efforts as a humble part of the team will serve the team well, and you even better. TAURUS [April 20 - May 20): If having fun feels like too much work, try to have fun at work. A little creativity on the job can boost morale and encourage you and your colleagues to work smarter, getting more done with less effort. GEMINI [May 21 - June 20): Fun may seem too important, and you could be frittering away energy that could be used in more satisfying - and yes, more deeply "fun" - ways. Start at home. Your partner, roommate, or even parent could have some very helpful ideas. CANCER [June 21 - July 22): Working too hard at making your partner happy could backfire. A serious discussion can open up issues you need to work on. It sounds P~ease take the survey today, and tell your friends! Caribbean. Tren~end0us strides toward full equality have been achieved by our communities over the past decade. There’s Power in Our Pride. Power to make a difference: tough, but this is a golden opportunity to improve things tremendously. LEO [July 23 -August 22): The big picture seems a bit off, and your efforts to correct it could be too all-encompassing to be effective. Focus on crucial details. What’s most important? Don’t be embarrassed to seek help from an authority. VIRGO [August 23 - September 22): Letting others choose your fun and games can get expensive. Don’t be afraid to set your limits and state your desires. Being a team player means compromises on all sides. You will all have more fun if you stand up for yourself. Bay and lesbian survey studies have opened doors (and minds) in leading con,~orations and organizations, which in turn have recognized the value of their LGBT employees through the establishment of equal hiring policies and domestic partner benefits. This has been a catalyst, leading to sweeping changes in political and Social inclusivity. Demographic reports also influence marketing investment. Virtually absent until recently, we now see a growing variety of products and services represented in gay media, celebrating our diversity. Ads keep LGBT publications and websites in business, serving their communities with independent news and information. Beyond simply advertising, though, these companies support us in many ways, including sponsoring community events and funding community-based charities in order to earn our loyalty. Taking an annual pulse on market trends through surveys helps demonstrate the LGBT community’s growing power, and influences positive change. We respect your privacy. All personal survey data is held confidentially by Community Marketing, Inc., an independent market research and communications firm based in San Francisco (founded 1992, and proudly 100% gay-owned and -operated) and will not I be sold to third parties or used for marketing purposes. Thank you! Community Mark÷ting, ® 2008 Community Marketing, inc., 584 castro st. #834, san Francisco CA 94114 USA ~.ComrnunityMarketinglnc.com LIBRA [September 23 - October 22): You[ current rash of energy could be eas ly exploitedby’a f~ily member or housemate. Stop and think. What do you really want to do? Some volunteer work will do both you and your community a lot of good! SCORPIO [October 23 - November 21): Worrying about what others think will only clog up your brain. Focus on your personal goals and where you want to be in 10, 20, or 30 years. Meditation helps. Planning is even better. Doing both is best. SAGITTARIUS [November 22 - December 20): Real friends love you for your charms, not your generosity. Entertain and plan as if you were head of accounting. Be resourceful! You can be frugal and fabulous, which will also impress the people who count. CAPRICORN [December 21 - January 19): Teamwork is the key to success. Do you really want to be in charge? You’re probably better as the power behind the throne. Your best ideas, .important as they are, have room for improvement. Discuss them with an expert. AQUARIUS [January 20 - Februar3, 18): Those arguments that seem so irresistible are not that important. Make your point and let it go. Take a quiet, amorous holiday, exploring techniques of pleasure. Discover what really works for you and your partner. Don’t fall back on habit or presumption! PISCES [February 19 - March 19): Top? Bottom? Could be time to switch. Don’t be afraid to interrupt lovemaking to discuss needs, techniques, or other important issues, not necessarily sexual. An older friend, maybe an ex, may have very helpful insights. 16 &~troSTAR September 2008 Small Business: Economic Woes Lead to Oppornmity Despite the bleak news about the economy and the continuing credit crunch, small b~lsiness owners have some built-in advantages for survMng-- and thrMng--during troubling times like these. Unlike corporate giants, they have flexibility on their side, allmving them to respond more quickly to customers’ needs and even to try t~- ing their businesses in new directions. Small businesses also are uniquely poised to adjust their budgets to offset a downturn in sales. A nimble small business owner can reduce costs overnight, trimming office supplies, water delivery services, travel expenses and trash pick-ups. Also many LGBT businesses can rely on loyalty within their general community and with their LGBT customers to offset any drops in sales that might come from wary consumers looking to cut back. ® Identifying core markets and targeting marketing efforts to them. Finally, a more personal approach to boosting business may be increasing networking ef~brts: Alliances with other LGBT business owners can lead to financial opportunities. By taking advantage ofweeldy breakfast meetings, receptions or cocktail parties hosted by the local LGBT chamber, entrepreneurs can make connections that translate into business and profits. "As chamber professionals, we need to be out talking to people about the choices they’re making;’ says Minnesot£s Sam McClure, executive director ofQ~orum: The Tvcin Cities GLBTA Chamber ofCommerce. "We have to ask ourselves: ’Does all of this move us forward?’ Supporting this or that LGBT business should be part ofthe larger effort to move us all forward. It’s the whole rising-tide concept. ~V~nat distinguishes successful LGBT businesses is their connection to their communities;’ says Justin Nelson, co-founder and president of the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber ofCommerce. "They have strong ties to their customers, and they are participants in the success oftheir communities. The loyalty they engender through their support ofcommunity events and causes can come back to them in tough economic times:’................ gqlile keeping a close eye on the budget and taking advantage 0fcustomer loyalty will help maintain business, it won’t necessarily create new business. That’s where the confident entrepreneur n~eds to stay the course and bravely ma~e even gr{a{&" inxestments in marketing and advertising to stand out fi’6m fl~e crowd, experts say. "~ne tendency is to want to cut back on all your spending to reduce your overall budget," says Kimberlee Willialns, principal and ~narketing director ofFEMWORKS, LLC, a Newark, NewJersey marketing firm that specializes in outreach to the African-American LGBT community. "But what you need to do is invest more money into marketing at these points. Customers still need your services and products, and this might be the time where you can stand above the crowd because your competitors are cutting back their marketing dollars." Some other suggestions for surviving an economic downturn include: ~ Evaluating workforce needs and adjusting accordingly, hiring temporary staffor interns to fill the gap or instituting a hiring freeze; ~ Offering overtime benefits to hourly employees to stave offhiring a full-time employee; ¢ Talking to your bank about extending a line ofcredit; ® Staying in touch with customers and letting them lmow the value oftheir business; ÷ Asking vendors and suppliers for concessions on the length ofpayment periods and interest rates; ÷ Being more aggressive xvhen collecting money owed the company, including offering clients the choice of charging their payments; "Ifwe let aW ofour LGBT business owners fail when we could have helped them, then xve’re doing a disservice to them and our entire cormnunity. They’re creating jobs and the energy that fuels philanthropy. I think we should be out there reminding everyone that it makes a difference where you buy your coffee or your gas or your office equipment? (Source NGLCC http:i/www.nglcc.org/BIZ/index ) METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES Rev Steve T. Orie Spidt of Christ MCC 2902 E2Olh Street Joplin, MO 64804 417-52~80 Worship Saturdays at 10:00 AM Community Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM MCC of the Living Spdng 17 Elk S~eet Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays at 6:00 PM Have a GOd filled and BleSSed Day! www.metrostarnews.com N~troSTAR 17 1o800o535oAIDS (2437) Oklahoma’s HIV/STD Hotline Community for P÷opl÷ tiving Our House, Too offers a variety of activities for people who are H1V+ and or living with AIDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves, VVe invi{e anyone who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail harrismmjr@yahoo.com. KING OF MASSAGE Groat Touch Man to Man Fult Body Massage 2 hands or 4 hands available Keller Williams Realty Chuck Breckenridge Whether buying or selling I’ll work hard for you. ~NWAGLBTCC~ORG Metro Star Classfieds 2" square ON SALE! £oras little as $33 per issue. Email: starnews@sbcglobal.net offer good until 9/16/08 918.835.7887 SAVE & FILL YOUR PIGGY [] WWW.METROSTARNEWS.COM 18 ~etroSTAR September 2008 Support those who support us. Their ads allow us to distribute your community news FREE to you. DOWNTOWN PL.aLZA ofTULSA I7 West 7th Street ~Ihtsa, OK 918-585-5898 *~vw.downto~vnplazatulsa.com I-LABANA INN 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-528-2221 www.habanainn.com ~LLY KIRBY, CPA 4815 S. HARVARD, SUITE 424 Tulsa, OK * 918-747-5466 Certified Public Accountant ANGLES 2117 NW 39th St. Oldahoma City, OK v~,~v.anglesclub.com BAMBOO LOUNGE 7204 E. PINE Tulsa, OK 918-836-8700 v~aw<bambooloungetulsa.com CLUB MAJESTIC 124 N. BOSTON ........ Tulsa, OK 918£584-9494 www.clubmajestictulsa.com FINISHLINE 2200 i’~V 39TH EXPP,_ESSWAY O~-~.homa City, OK 405-5252073~3 w~wc.habanainn.com THE COPA 2200 NW- 39TH ~RESSWAY OkAahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 ~a~vw.habanainn.com THE LEDO 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY OkJahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 wv~v.habanainn.com HOPE TESTING CLINIC 3540 E. 31st Tulsa, OK 800-535-2437 Oldahoma’s HIV/STD Hottine SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC 2902 E. 20TH STREET, Joplin, MO * 479-529-8480 Service SatOrday 9:30 AM MCC of the LIVING SPRING 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays 6pm MCC UNITED 1623 N. Maplewood, Tulsa, OK 918-838-!715 ~,w.v.mcctulsa.org OPEN,MRMS YOUTH PROJECT 2015 -B S. Lakewood Tulsa, OK 74112 918-838-7104 www. openarmsproject.org OUR HOUSE, TOO 203 N. Nogales Ave Tulsa, OK 74127 918-585-9552 KING OF MASSAGE In or Out Calls Oldahoma City, OK 405-314-3898 JUDY G. PHOTO’S Tulsa, OK judygphotos@sbcglobal.net 918-743-8636 CENTURY 21 GOLD CASTLE 3627 NW EXPRESSWAY Oklakoma City, OK 73112 405-840-2106 wvw.c2 lgoldcastle.com CHUCK BRECKENRIDGE Keller Williams Realty Tulsa, OK 918-706-1887 GAY BRADY HEIGHTS-Tulsa New and Historic Homes for Sale and Rent For Info: www.gaybradyheightstulsa.com GUSHER’S PdSSTAURANT 2200 ~xWg 39TH ~RESSWAY Oklalmma City, OK 405-525-0730 Located inside Habana Inn DALLAS CV~B Dallas, TX ww~v.glbtdallas.com www.metrostamews.com ~etroSTAR 19 "I’m Ron Marlett and i’m .......... running for State House District 84 because I want a chance to bring about change that really matters for my fellow Oklahomans: good jobs, affordable healthcare, a quality educational system and real freedom and equality." ! NEED YOUR HELP TO WIN THIS ELECTION, WE. CAN MAKE ~T HAPPEN! need money and volunteers! Ron Marlett P.O. Box 854 Bethany, OK 73008 (405) 840-2069 www.ronmarlettforhousedistrict84.com Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2008] Metro Star Magazine, September 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 9 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource September 01, 2008 Subject The topic of the resource Politics, education, and social conversation over LGBTQ+ topics Description An account of the resource The Metro Star’s first issue began in August of 2008. Before this issue was Ozarks Pride (2004), The Ozark’s Star (2004), and The Star (2005). This magazine discusses topics of AIDs, education, politics, local and national civil rights of the LGBT community, and advice for relationships and places to visit. This collection is PDF searchable. Physical copies are also available to be seen at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center with permission. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Star Media, Ltd; Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Star Media, Ltd Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Greg Steele James Nimmo Joey D. Victor Gorin Rex Wockner Romeo San Vicente Andrew Collins Donald Pile Ronald Blak Ray Williams Jack Fertig Devre Jackson Chaz Ward Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Image PDF Online text Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource magazine Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Southwestern Missouri Western Arkansas Southeast Kansas Eastern Oklahoma The United States of America (50 states) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://history.okeq.org/collections/show/19 Relation A related resource The Metro Star Magazine, August 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 8 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/198 The Metro Star Magazine, November 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 11 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/200 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given 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including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2008] OkEq Marriage Equality Protest Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2008 Subject The topic of the resource Photos from an Oklahomans for Equality protest in favor of marriage equality Description An account of the resource 174 photos from the Oklahomans for Equality (OkEq) protest in favor of marriage equality. Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Oklahomans for Equality (OkEq) 2008 Dennis R. Neill Equality Center equality Equality Center marriage marriage equality OkEq OkEq Equality Center Oklahomans for Equality Oklahomans for Equality (OKEQ) photo photos protest https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/328cedf0237badfbab984c2d6510f127.jpeg 620a470df09210eb02256e2d92cf1a45 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/357fcf951c7217a29d6fa3020caae2fd.jpeg d14810cfb80fee800793542ad56f1f4f Photo Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2008] Pride Photos Subject The topic of the resource Photos from the 2008 Tulsa Pride Festival Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2008 Description An account of the resource 2 photos from the 2008 Tulsa Pride Festival, with one featuring Jim Roth's booth at the event. 2008 2008 Pride Jim Roth Pride Pride 2008 pride festival Tulsa Pride Tulsa Pride 2008 Tulsa Pride Events Tulsa Pride Festival https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/2fb2209e3e1cae984a20e51ed8c45792.jpg 36dffe1a710d2521ca5d924dc3681179 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/c84cc81c2ec9b7199eb8c883804f7ce3.pdf 412eb87f38d447b23c5bec3947ad6a67 PDF Text Text ESTABLISHED 2003 www.ozarksstar.com "The homosexual agenda is destroying this nation." "1 honestly think it’s the biggest threat our nation has, even more so than terrorism or Islam. They have infiltrated City Councils. They are after your 2 year olds for indoctrination." State Representative, District 84, Sally Kern. Compiled by Star staff Photo: Rally at Memorial Park Oklahoma City. ¯hese sentiments expressed by State Representative Sally Kern were taped at a Republican gathering who had invited her to speak on what some term the homosexual agenda. The tape was given to the Victory Fund, a national gay & lesbian political activist group and placed on ¥outube, where it has now been heard by over 1,000,000 people. It has garnered international attention with responses that have overwhelmed Youtube, and to say that the lines of communication with Ms. Kern were jammed would be a classic understatement. Ellen Degeneres was not surprised when she tried to contact Sally Kern after playing the youtube video on her show and couldn’t even leave a message. Although the audience was obviously not in agreement with Sally, Ellen appealed to Miss Kern on the air, stating that she wanted to talk to her, that she obviously had some misinformation. Although some responses received by Ms Kern were supportive, the vast majority were not, and many were threatening and are being investigated by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation. At a Press Conference at the Church of the Open Arms March 11, Cimarron Alliance President Richard Ogden, among many others, denounced Ms. Kern’s remarks and stated that she should apologize or be censured by the Oklahoma House of Representatives. As he put it, "These are hateful words that can result in hateful actions, This is about accountability, not freedom of expression." It was pointed out that only 3 months APRIL 2008 earlier, Stephen Domer of Oklahoma City was murdered because he was gay. So far Ms. Kern has refused to apologize and the Speaker of the House, Republican Chris Benge of Tulsa, has stated he will not call for Ms. Kern to be censured. However Governor Brad Henry stated that he advised her to "Think before you speak. Oklahomans have love and tolerance for all people. I don’t think this rhetoric represents Oklahoma." P-Flag of Oklahoma has asked for a meeting with her, but has gotten no response. Her statement that the gay community was a bigger threat than terrorism or Islam drew fire from both military personnel and Oklahoma’s Muslim community. At the Church press conference Richard Ogden pointed out that one of the four people on United Airlines Flight 93 who overpowered the hijackers who were heading the airliner to the White House, Mark Bingham, was gay. Another speaker at the conference, Jerre B. Fine, a Air Force veteran, stated that she was honored to serve her country and that Sally Kern’s comments that gays were a bigger threat than terrorism or Islam, and were a cancer in the toe of society were very hurtful on a personal level. She pointed out that "I served my country dutifully and honorably for 6 years of my life. We need protection not only from outside forces trying to destroy America, but also we need protection from within from people like Sally Kern." On March 14 there was a rally at Memorial Park featuring signs along Classen Boulevard encouraging rush hour travelers to honk to show opposition to Representative Kern’s remarks. The event got extensive television coverage, and featured many community leaders. Most important of all was that the responses from OKC’s commuters were overwhelmingly supportive. In a recent Tulsa World poll, the question was: Would you sign the petition to have Sally Kern removed from office? .............. Continued PAGE 5 ��®MISS GAY TULSA PAGEANT April 25th 10prn. Featuring - Miss Gay Tulsa America - Melody Micheals and Miss Gay Oklahoma Lindsey Paige. for more information email: information@downtownplazatulsa.com 2 the STAR vwvw.ozarksstar.com �1 DS (2437) Recognized by Keller Williams For outstanding achievement 2005 and 2006 R~ALTY Chuck Breckenridge 918-706-1887 REALTOI~ Whether buying or selling I’ll work hardforyo~ Get the STAR delivered to your home or office. 12 issues only $33.95. Send Check or Money Order to: The STAR 5103 S. Sheridan Rd., #153 Tulsa, OK 74145 Seepage 29for order blank. ,J www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 3 �APRIL, State News continues on page 6, 9, 11 and 23 LGBT History looks at the life of Tallulah Bankahead, Actress Movies, TV, Stage and Radio World Briefs By Rex Wockner Wockner News Service ~ DEEP ~INSIDE HOLLYWOOD Deep Inside Hollywood, reports on new projects for George Clooney and Simon ~ WiNE Devre Jackson reviews wines of Northem Italy. Beer-Battered Onion Rings from Bob & Jim’s Care, Greycliff, Montana. Gay Travelers: Bus Trips & Tours Out of Town: Chicago STAR SCENE Snapshots from around the State. Paparazzi on page 25 FITNESS Introspection can lead you to better understand yourself and ultimately to achieve greater happiness. ON THE COVER: Photo byVictor Gorin 4 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �Embrace the Passior o£ the Prom. Pride Prom 2008 makes comeback to PAC By Joey De TULSA, OK__ When the sun sets April 19, the Tulsa Performing Arts Center will heat up with the passion of Spain as the University of Tulsa’s Bisexual, Lesbian, Gay and Transgender alliance present Pride Prom 2008, "Bailamos!" The event, which has called the PAC home for three years, offers BLGT youth and their friends the opportunity to celebrate the prom season with their chosen date. ’~A lot of BLGT youth can’t take the prom date of their choice (to their high school’s prom), this is an opportunity to express themselves freely," says Steven Hulford, one of the organization’s leaders. For the TU-BLGTA, Pride Prom is a way to give back to the community and make memories for BLGTA youth, regardless of if they are TU students or not. "We are in or eighth year of doing this event," says Hulford. "Each year it has grown from being in the Great Hall of the Allen Chapman Activity Center (a building on campus), to what it is now." According to Hulford, this year’s Spanish theme was picked from a long list of ideas. "We wanted to do something completely different from what we had done in the past," he says noting previous themes of Hollywood and water. "We’re calling it ’Bailamos’ because the literal translation is ’we dance’." At the event, Hulford says youth can expect all the food, music and fun of a traditional high school prom. In addition, attendees will have access to a "Resource Row," that will feature organizations who provide quality services to BLGT youth. Beginning at 7:30, the event runs until 11:00 and does not require formal dress. "The only things we don’t allow are torn jeans and shorts, other than that people are welcome to dress how they feel comfortable. www.ozarksstar.com People have come in formal prom attire and have come in polo shirts and slacks," explains Mr. Hulford. Tickets for Pride Prom 2008 are $10 in advance at www.myticketoffice.com and $12 at the door. For information on sponsorship and branding opportunities, contact the group’s advisor, Nancy Eggen at 918.744.9182. SOONER STATE SOFTBALL ASSOCIATION HOLDS OKLAHOMA CITY TOURNAMENT Leroy Cobb & Laurie Proole MC’s at Angles Furndraiser for Sooner State Softball 26 teams ( 21 men’s, 5 women’s) came together at Boomtown Field and the Softball Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City March 15-16 to enjoy the comraderie of softball competition. Now in its 5th year, the Sooner State Softball Association offers the GLBT community the opportunity to show off their skills or learn the game among friends. According to SSSA Commissioner Leroy Comp, it also provides a way "to see some great softball." The SSSA is part of the North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance, a confederation of GLBT athletic teams in both the United States and Canada. New players are always welcome, so if you’d like to try your hand, call Mr.Comp and (405) 408 2533 or e-mail him at cutupok@aol.com. FRONT PAGE CONTINUED: Yes: 129 No: 86 I don’t know: 6 The results of this question represent the opinions of 221 people with the following demographic profile: Oklahomans: 80.5 % Male: 127 Female: 94 In response to Kern’s statement that Eureka Springs City Council was controlled by gays. A press statement was issued by the Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce and the straight Mayor, Dani Joy: "Since its founding in 1879, Eureka Springs has been and remains welcoming to all visitors and residents without regard to their race, color, sex, age, sexual orientation, disability, or national origin. It is our hope that all people would aspire to this ideal. Because of the timeless beauty of our architecture and landscape, the friendliness of our citizens and our welcoming attitude toward all visitors, we remain a destination for people from all walks of life. Eureka Springs will remain a city eager to provide all visitors a fulfilling vacation experience." Mayor Dani Joy" Oklahomans have spoken out, we’ve demonstrated, protested, sent letters and email to our elected officials, and have gained international attention. Media from around the world has covered the embarrassing tirade of Rep. Kern. This international spodight may be to our advantage. Our activist groups have experienced an influx of out of state contributions since the stoW broke. We’ve gotten the attention of national and international advocacy organizations. We have discovered many new main stream allies in Oklahoma. The House and Senate leadership may allow the five hate crimes bills currently before them to receive full consideratioia. There is a positive side to this degrading display of (Shame on Sally) Most importantly we have the right to vote, and Sally was voted into office. Come November and in future elections know your candidate before you mark that spot on the ballot. It could make an important difference in our future. the STAR 5 �editor Dear Editor, When is enough, really enough? We have been reading and watching the national news about Oklahoma State Rep. Sally Kern, R-Oklahoma City, saying "gay agenda is a greater threat to America than terrorism." Although we do not live in Oldahoma, we have been visiting your great state for over 30 years. We are extremely concerned when a public official such as an elected State Representative makes such remarks. ¯his is really nothing short of a "hate crime" in itselfl It is one thing for a regular citizen of the country to make remarks such as this but when a public official says it, then it is obviously crossing the line. As gay and lesbian citizens of the United States, we have as much right as anybody else to expect full citizenship. When people such as Ms. Kern spews her hatred to the people of Oklahoma it is WRONG ! It propels hatred in schools, churches and throughout the entire community. Many years ago we took on Anita Bryant for her anti-homosexual drive and we won! So, our dear brothers and sisters in Oklahoma ............. have you had enough? Gays and Lesbians throughout the country are fighting for their rights and each and every individual gay and lesbian person in each state must do their part. We cannot suggest an action to take against Ms. Kern however we feel very strongly that action MUST BE TAKEN in whatever form necessary. Whether a full stage sit-in, a recall of her government seat in your State House or whatever. ..... something NEEDS TO BE DONE AND NOW~ Many years have passed since we just stood on the sidelines and took whatever was handed to us, and we never, want to return to those days. We are extremely proud of the progress that gays and lesbians have made. Both Oklahoma City and Tulsa have a very vibrant gay and lesbian community, much more so than most cities around the country their size. So instead of just bitching and moaning and groaning about Mrs. Kern, we wish all the gays and lesbians in Oklahoma the best success with this matter. Cordially, Donald Pile and Ray Williams 6 the STAR OkEq Den,o.unces Rep. Sally Kem’s Ant oGay Tirade TULSA, OK (PR) __Oklahomans for Equality (OkEq) deplores the sentiments expressed by Oklahoma State Representative Sally Kern (R-Oklahoma City) in a YouTube video now generating a firestorm. National and local media outlets are closely covering the controversy sparked by Kern’s claim that homosexuality is "the biggest threat that our nation has, even more so than terrorism or Islam." In a triple play of intolerance, Rep. Kern offends lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) Americans, thousands of women and men defending the United States from terrorist attacks, and Muslims worldwide. Yet, she remains completely unapologetic, citing her right to freedom of speech and claiming, "I have never endorsed or supported any hateful action targeting individuals on the other side of this debate and never will." Rep. Kern’s legislative track record belies her remarks. In 2006, Rep. Kern sponsored legislation that xvould have denied funding to public libraries that refused to segregate books addressing LGBT themes. Rep. Kern has repeatedly used her public office to demonize LGBT Oklahomans and to attempt to deny them the exact same civil liberties she now defends so passionately. This is the height of hypocrisy. "OkEq firmly supports Rep. Kern’s constitutional tight to express her viexvs, but vociferously objects to the actions she takes to prevent LGBT Oklahomans from attaining justice and equality. When elected officials use their power to defame entire categories of people, they abuse the freedom of speech embedded in the First Amendment and violate their responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of their constituents," asserts Justice Waidner, OkEq Executive Director. OkEq calls upon the many fair-minded members of the Oklahoma legislature to condemn Rep. Kern’s comments and to pass immediately a state hate crimes law that encompasses sexual orientation and gender identity and expression. We ask for the House and Senate leadership to allow the five hate crimes bills currently before them to receive full consideration on the floor. www.ozarksstar.com �www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 7 �4815 S. Harvard Gay men and lesbians face many special tax situations, whether single or as couples. Proudly serving Tulsa & OKC’s GLBT communities since 1982 8 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �TULSA, OK (PR) __ Health Outreach Prevention Education, Inc. (H.O.P.E.) celebrated its 10th anniversar~ Xgrednesday, March 12, 2008. Invited guests and honorees celebrated at the Dennis R. Nell Fxtuality Center, a long-time community partner where H.O.P.E.’s services began in 1996. The evening included hors d’ oeuvres and recognized key individuals who have been instrumental in the growth and success of the organization. "H.O.P.E. provides a vita! service in the fight against HIV by testing those at risk and also educating the community on safer sex practices. By virtue of their HIV testing being free and anonymous, people at risk can more easily know their status and help stop the transmission of HIV," stated Stephen Eberle, advisory board and 10th Anniversary committee member. In recognition of H.O.P.E.’s 10th Anniversary, the following people and organizations received recognition for the significant impact they have had on the agency since its inception: Ms. Kristi Frisbie, Mr. Jeremy Simmons, the Oklahoma State Department of Health HIWSTD Division, Ms. Janie Nicklas and the Tulsa Community AIDS Partnership Grants Committee, Tulsa CARES, Community of Hope Church, Ms. Debi Sanditen, Dr. Damon Baker, and Oklahomans for Equality. Health Outreach Prevention Education (H.O.P.E.) is an independent, not-for-profit organization that has served Tulsa and surrounding communities since 1998. H.O.P.E. is proud to be recognized as one of the largest and most comprehensive health promotion facilities in Oklahoma, and is the only free, anonymous HIV testing site in a 23-county area. H.O.P.E. also operates the statewide HIWsexually transmitted disease (STD) resource hotline and conducts a variety of targeted outreach efforts focusing on men, women, and under served populations. H.O.P.E. also offers free and low-cost Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C testing and education services. H.O.P.E. provides a comfortable place for people to learn their health status and can connect clients to a variety of medical and social support services. H.O.EE. is supported in part by the Oklahoma State Department of Health, as well as various private foundations, including the Oklahoma AIDS Care Fund, the Tulsa Community AIDS Partnership, the MAC AIDS Fund, and the George B. Kaiser Family Foundation. Raising awareness of HIV/AIDS remains vitally important, as the infection rate remains steady every year in the United States. Young people and minorities are disproportionately affected, but HIV does not discriminate. By knowing your status, you are better able to protect yourself and others. Prevention education and testing are keys to decreasing the stigma and infection rate of HIV. For more information about HIV or sexually transmitted infections, call the Oklahoma HIWSTD Resource Hotline, 1-800-535-MDS (2437). www.ozarksstar.com RESERVE YOUR SPAOE HOW Deadline Thursday IViay t 5th Serving the Oklahoma GLBT community since 2003. the STAR 9 �by Liz Highteyman Past Out, which looks at the life 0fTallulah Bankhead, Actress Movies, TV;, Stage and Radio, Breakthrough acting success eluded Banld~ead in New York, and in 1923 she moved to London on the advice of an astrologer. There, she quickly achieved fame, especially among young working-class women. Over the next eight years she appeared in two dozen \VC-est End plays, which were wildly popular with fans, if not always acclaimed by critics. Documents declassified in 2000 revealed that the British intelligence service investigated her - groundlessly, it turned out - for allegedly seducing a group of Eton schoolboys. Bankhead earned considerable income, but spent profligately; by the end of the decade, she was broke and accepted a contract offer from Paramount Studios. In Hollywood, she hosted parties at her mansion that were said to have "no boundaries," and she attended shindigs at lesbian actress Alia Nazimova’s lavish Garden of Allah estate. An emergency hysterectomy due to advanced gonorrhea did little to curb her omnivorous sexual appetite. "My daddy warned me about men and booze," she famously quipped, "but he never mentioned a word about women and cocaine." Bankhead had flings with Gary Cooper and - allegedly - with Marlene Dieterich, but Greta Garbo apparently spurned her advances. Upon meeting Joan Crawford, who was then married to Douglas Fairbanks Jr., she remarked, "I’ve had an affair with your husband. You’ll be next." Though Bankhead often bragged about her sexual conquests, many believed she exaggerated for the sake of publicity. Indeed, her comments suggested that she did not particularly enjoy sex. "The conventional position makes me claustrophobic," she once said, "and the others give me a stiff neck or lockjaw." Regarding Bankhead’s orientation, long-time companion Patsy Kelly - one of the first actresses to come out as a lesbian - said it "mostly it depended on Tallulah’s mood...When she’d get caught up with a man, she’d go quite hetero on us." Who was Tallu]lah Bankhead ? cades after her heyday in the 1920s and 1930s, self-described "ambisextrous" stage and screen star Tallulah Bankhead is as famous for her bad-girl antics as for her acting talent. e ~ Bankhead was born to a prominent political family in Huntsville, Ala., on January 31, probably in !903 (the year is subject to debate); her mother died shortly thereafter from childbirth complications. Seeking to keep his two unruly daughters out of trouble, her father, a U.S. Congressman, sent them to convent schools, but these proved conducive venues for Bankhead’s first sexual experiences with other girls. Though plump and plain as a child, Bankhead blossomed as an adolescent; at age 15, she won a movie magazine beauty contest with a prize of a small film role. Chaperoned by an aunt, she took up residence at the Mgonquin Hotel in New York City, a favored haunt of the Broadway elite. There, Bankhead was seduced by renowned actress Eva Le Gallienne and met Estelle Winwood, an older English actress who would become a life-long friend and sometime lover. Bankhead also counted among her liaisons British student Napier Alington and jazz great Billie Holiday, but she turned down a casting couch invitation from John Barrymore. 10 the STAR Bankhead married once, to actor John Emery in 1937, but they divorced four years later with no children. She then bought an estate in West&ester County, where she lived for extended periods with Winwood and with Kelly. She also surrounded herself with numerous pets and her "caddies" - young men who mixed her drinks, lit her constant cigarettes, and sometimes provided sexual services. Follmving in her father’s footsteps, she became increasing involved in politics, campaigning for Democratic candidates and supporting both anti-Nazi and anti-Communist causes. Bankhead disliked movie acting, and her larger-than-life style ~vas better suited to the stage than the screen. After making several unsuccessful Hollywood films, she returned to acting on Broadway and with national touring companies, receiving critical acclaim for her performances in The Little Foxes (1939) and The Skin of Our Teeth (1942). Though bitterly disappointed at being passed over for the role ofScarlett O’Hara in Gone with the Wind, she still took on occasional movie projects, including her most famous role as a shipwrecked journalist in Alfred Hitchcock’s Lifeboat (1944). In the early 1950s, Bantdxead emceed The Big Show, a popular variety program on NBC Radio; when radio gave way to television, she appeared as a guest on shows such as The Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour. She also starred in a one-woman Las Vegas nightclub act and wrote a best-selling autobiography. But as Bankhead aged, her www.ozarksstar.com �years of hard drinking and drug use caught up with her, and she became a caricature of her former self. Many of her gay male fans failed to take her efforts seriously, laughing through her performance as Blanche DuBois in a 1956 revival of A Streetcar Named Desire. Before her death from pneumonia in 1968, Bankhead’s final roles were intentionally absurd, induding turns as a demented mother in the British horror flick Fanatic (1965) - retitled Die! Die! My Darling! in the United States - and as the Black Widow on the Batman television series. When producer William Dozier explained his vision for the latter role, she reportedly replied, "Don’t talk to me about camp, dahling, I invented it!" For further reading: Bret, David. 1997. Tallulah Bankhead: A Scandalous Life (Robson Books). Lobenthal, Joe. 2004. Tallulah! The Life and Times of a Leading Lady (HarperCollins). McLellan, Diana. 2000. The Girls: Sappho Goes to Hollywood (Robson Books). OK Mozart Festvai Announces 24th Season, June 13=21 TULSA, OK (PR) __ Tourism is a growing industry in Oklahoma, and the OK Mozart International Festival continues to enhance dais growth by attracting visitors to Bartlesville each June for one of the state’s most renowned cultural events. From June 13-21, the Festival’s 24th season promises to delight audiences from across the state and country with an outstanding array of concert artists and world-class musicians and performances, ranging from classical concerts to Jazz and everything in between. The line-up of renowned guest artists includes Mark O’Connor, Barry Douglas, Anne-Marie McDermott, Frederica yon Stade, Branford Marsalis, Peter Nero, and Ben Vereen. Plus, the New York Theatre Ballet is performing Sleeping Beauty. www.ozarksstar.com Amici New York, the Festival’s beloved orchestra-in-residence, returns as it has each year since the Festival’s founding in 1985. These musicians are soloists in their own right and perform in many of the most prestigious ensembles throughout the year. Paul Neubauer, music director, returns with his All-Star Chamber Ensemble featuring members of The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center. This year’s Festival will celebrate four great American composers: George Gershwin, Elliott Carter, Charles Wuorinen and Joan Tower, according to Neubauer. 3rd. To order, call 918.336.9800, visit www. okmozart.com or in person at 500A South Dewey, Bartlesville. The Festival is made possible in part by the Oklahoma Arts Council and many corporate and individual patrons. The OK Mozart Festival is a member of Green Country Marketing Assn., one of 11 multi-county organizations working with the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, the Oklahoma Travel Industry Assn. and the other 10 multi-county associations to promote the state tourism industry. "We will also have Mozart,Tchalkovsky and Jimi Hendrix. Please join us for an exhilarating OK Mozart Festival." According to Scott Black, executive director, the 2008 festival offers some positive changes, including three series of entertainment options for the major concerts, money-saving ticket packages and many new and free Showcase events. These events, usually during non-concert hours, offer tours, historical talks, childreffs activities, luncheons and performances. "The 2008 Festival marks our 24th season of offering an internationally recognized event that puts Northeast Oklahoma on the map alongside larger cities that host similar summer festivals--San Francisco, New York, Chicago and Aspen," Black said. Most concerts take place in the Bartlesville Community Center concert hall, acdaimed for its near-perfect acoustics. Inside the Community Hall, the Moz-Art Gallery and OKM Gift Shop provide shopping pleasure for visitors. An exquisite on-site restaurant, Cafd Mozart, offers delicious three-course dinners and delightful lunches. The all-time favorite Woolaroc Outdoor Concert, taking place on June 20 at the Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve, features Amici New York with conductor’ Michael Krajewski. Nestled on the shores of a tranquil lake, this concert under the stars provides a relaxing, fun way to enjoy beautiful music. When darkness falls, a spectacular finale of fireworks lights the sky, signaling an end to the unforgettable evening. Season tickets and packages are available now with general sales beginning March Creating Community for People iving with H ViA DS 50t c (3) Non Profit Orgauization Our House, Too offers a vadety of activities for people who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves. We invite anyone who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail harrismmjr@yahoo.com. the STAR 11 �Gay arid Gray r g: Cor cerr s SAN FRANCISCO, CA__ More than 70% of lesbian and gay and respondents over age 40 reported concerns about losing the ability to care for themselves in a recent study conducted by Community Marketing, Inc. The majority also feared becoming sick or disabled, being dependent on others, and outliving their savings. When asked which resources they would rely on for long-term financial and social care as they age, less than 8% of respondents said they would place significant reliance on long-term care insurance, leaving us to wonder how prepared lesbians and gay men are for the kinds of health issues that often come with old age. Respondents placed the most emphasis on: Health care insurance: 22% Medicare: 20% Personal savings: 19% Social Security: 16% 65% of respondents expect for provide care to a partner sometime in the future, 44% for a parent, and 34% for a friend. However, respondents were less certain of who would care for them - 59% said a partner would be there to help care for them, 29% a friend, and 20% no one. Research Shows Growing Old a Concern for Many Lesbians and Gay Mot A significant 20% of gay male and 38% of lesbian respondents over age 40 have children Oust 4% of gay men and 12% of lesbians reported the children to be under age 18). Sometimes it is easy forget how many gay-boomers had children before they came out, and some gays and lesbians will be able to rely on their children for care. The majority of respondents have completed a Living Will and the majority have a Power of Attorney, but less than 50% have completed an Estate Will or set up a Living Trust. (Hospitals often require a visiting partner to present a living ~ in order to enter his or her partner’s hospital room.) 49% of respondents said they are at least fairly confident that they would be treated with dignity and respect by medical personnel, but 19% expressed concerns that they have little confidence in this being the case. Some views of retirement and old age are much more positive. Respondents look forward to: traveling (79%), having more time for personal interests (74°/0), and peace and relaxation (60%). In addition, lesbians were more likely to report looking forward to spending more time with friends and family than gay men. 12 the STAR DEMOGRAPHICS of this "over 40" study: The median age is 52. 69% of respondents are male, 30% female, and 1% transgen der. More than 96% of respondents identified as gay or lesbian. The remainder identified their sexual orientation as bisexual, queer or questioning. 53% of respondents reported that they are completely out. However, 15% are somewhat or not very out. The median respondent in all age categories reported plans to retire at age 62. The vast majority of respondents over age 62 have already retired. 73% of respondents have a college degree. 33% of female respondents and 46% of male respondents are single or do not live with a significant other. Lesbians are more likely to be partnered than gay men. The majority own single family homes. www.ozarksstar.com �By’ Rex Wockner Wockner News Service iranian fears e×ecution if sent home Mehdi Kazemi fears he’l! be executed if the United Kingdom forces him to return to Iran. Kazemi went to London to study in 2005 and Iranian officials later arrested his boyfriend, Parham, charged him with sodomy and executed him, according to Kazemi’s father. Kazemi then sought asylum in Britain but was rejected. In 2006, he then fled to the Netherlands, which detained him and is nmv preparing to return him to the UK. The UK had been planning to send Kazemi back to Iran ~vhen he returned to British soil but, on March 13, following extensive media coverage and political pressure, the Home Office agreed to review his case one more time before forcing him to go home. "The Iranian authorities have found out that I am a homosexual and they are looking for me," Kazemi said in a recent letter to UK Home Secretary Jacqui Smith. tn a statement given to activist groups, Kazemi elaborated: "Around [the] end of April 2006, my uncle called me again and informed me that my father had informed him that the authorities had executed Parham and that I must not return to Iran as the authorities would do the same to me .... Parham was charged with the crime of being homosexual and was executed." According to Kazemi’s father, Parham named Mehdi as his lover prior to his execution. Leading British gay activist Peter Tatchell commented: "The Home Office decision to deport Mehdi back to Iran is shameful and reckless .... Gay men in Iran are hanged from public cranes using the barbari method of slow strangulation." Tatchell said the UK government is "callous and more interested in cutting asylum w~w.ozarksstar.com numbers than in ensuring a fair, just and compassionate asylum system." Britain’s Gay and Lesbian Humanist Association also has taken up Kazemi’s cause, saying that "deporting gay and lesbian people to Iran is akin to deporting Jews back to Nazi Germany." Meanwhile, The Independent reported March 7 that an Iranian lesbian who fled to Britain after her girlfriend was arrested and sentenced to death by stoning also is at risk of being sent home. Pegaah Emambakhsh, 40, issued a statement March 6 saying: "I will never, never go back. If I do I know I will die." Emambakhsh’s asylum claim was rebuffed by the Court of Appeal in February. She now plans to ask the High Court to review the case. Iran is known to have executed several teens and men accused of engaging in sodomy, although in nearly all the cases that have been publicized in recent years the individuals were accused of other crimes as well, such as rape. The International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission has said it suspects that other charges often are tacked onto sodomy cases to prevent the public outrage that would accompany executions carried out solely for the crime of consensual adult gay sex. The group also has said it believes executions solely for gay sex are taking place .out of the public eye. "Our suspicions [are] that their current practice really is to rid society of lesbians and gay men," the organization said last year. Human Rights Watch, on the other hand, has said it cannot fully document any executions in Iran in recent years carried out solely for the crime of consensual adult gay sex. Last September, during a speech at Columbia University in New York City, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was asked about the nation’s treatment of gay people. He responded: "We in Iran -- we in Iran, firstly, we don’t have hamjensbaz [a derogatory term for homosexuals meaning people with loose morals who chase people of the same gender for sexual pleasure] like you have in your country. In our country, there is no such a thing. In Iran, such a thing does not -- in Iran, in Iran, absolutely such a thing doe not exist as a phenomenon. I don’t know who told you otherwise." ILGA conference canceled The International Lesbian and Gay Association has canceled its 24th World Conference which was to take place in Quebec City, Canada, May 14 to 18. "A recent site visit] confirmed the impressions of the current lack of preparedness at this late date and the lack of funding necessary for the conference to take place," ILGA’s board co-chairs said in a statement. The primary lo.cal organizer was the Coalition gale et lesbienne du Qudbec. ILGA did not reschedule the conference but did put out "a formal call for new proposals from ILGA member organizations for hosting the world conference later this year." It gave interested parties less than a month to submit proposals. The board said any local organizer must take on partial responsibility for paying for the gathering. "ILGA does not have the capacity to fully fund the conference," the co-chairs said. "The local hosts have in the past fundraised for resources, especially to bring scholars from the Global South." ILGA is a 30-year-old federation of more than 600 GLBT organizations and associated members, such as city governments, from 90 countries. ............ Continued PAGE 27 the STAR 13 �Until he crossed over to the PG-13 Law and Order SVU, Chris Metoni was most notorious for gay sex scenes ~uad full- frontal nudity Deep ~nside Hol!~,wooeL repora¢ on new projeHrsjbr George Cloon~ and Simon Callow. Clooney Is Fantastic Mr. Fox 2?~hat’s the connection bevween the Coen Brothers’ dark, violent No Country for Old Men and the upcoming animated family feature Xhe Fantastic Mr. Fox? Besides Coen collaborator George Ctooney in the starring voice role, that would be gay superproducer Scott Rudin, the man whose recent Oscar acceptance speech included a loving thank you to his ~artner (which was then s~rangely excised from the A~demyk o~cial transcript). Rudin tends to go where the hits are, ~d this ~es Anderson-directed, Ctooney and Care Blanchett-voiced feature, abou~ a quick-witted fox and three unpleasant f~rmers t~,in~ to do him in, looks like a sure!re holiday hit..~d in this instance, hohday means Christmas of 2009. But not to worD~ C!ooney has Burn ~ter Read in~ {the next one from the Coens) arriv ing during the interim. OZ. And now Meloni is set,t,’o become even more family-friendl): He 1! star in Gym Teacher: Th~ Movie ~o{ Nickelodeon £s a down’on’his-luck coaCh wing dinated thi., be a ment - art teacher Mr. sircom, will a obsessive ~he movie Black about a with~ the film and this time with (slightly) ~,. u,.ll, a dark drama about a woman with a compulsive need to pull out her own hair one strand at k tirile (sounds like Todd Haynes’ Safei but Creepier), ~vill star not 0nly the legendary ~ren Black (Nashvillei but also musician Rickie Lee Jones. No word yet on when the movie will be, ready for an audience, but ifArcher~ firs~ f?ature is any indication, ir will be one ~at audiences wofft soon forget. American audiences remember him best as the joy~ttlly ~a.)[ heat attack victim who put the "funerN in Four XWeddings and a Funeral. BUt now gay" Brit character actor Simon Callow gets his own wedding, , even if it is something of an odd one. Hes starring in the recen@ wrapped Chemical We~lding, about a shy p;cofessor who manages to bring legendary occult figure Aleister Crowl~ back to life. And if that plot weren’t oddball enough, there’s the ~lm’s linefig. e" it was co-written by Bruce Dickinson, a name metal fans will know as the teader of the hugely successful rockers Iron Maiden. ~e sure-to-be-destined-for-cult-status film is due for release later this year. No ~v,ord yet on whether Or not Iron Maidens songs will hog the soundtrack spotlight. George Clooney www.ozarksstar.com �Reds Moccagatta Barbaresco 1999, 2000 Produttori Del Barbaresco 1999, 2000 Poderi Colla Pinot Noir 2006 A few years backl I had the opportunity to visit friends in northern Italy. We spent our time in the Piedmont region in a small town called Alba. Piedmont, in Italian, means at the foot of the mountain, he main grape grown there is the distinished Nebbiolo, which is the base for the med Barolo, Barbaresco and Gattinara (Barbera and Dolcetto) among others. Also popular is Barbera from Alba & Asti. Barolos are dch, rose-scented wines, robust and tannic, capable of (and often requiring) long aging. Ur~fortunat~ly they are often prohibitively expensive. Barbaresco, made to be drunk earlier than Barolos, can be the more affordable choice, ~u Another Piedmont creation that achieved worldwide fame is the Vermouth, which was first created by Benedetto Carpano in his wine shop n~ar the Tudn Stock Exchange. The classic American Martini cocktail takes its name from the most known Italian producer of dry vermouth, Martini & Rossi. Piedmont was one of the first Italian regions to embrace the industrial revolution and in 1899 the automotive giant Fiat (Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino) was established there, I thought rd shed some light on the wines from this part of the wodd. You can always dig deeper by checking out my reference links. Piemonte is also known fol~ its Gorgonzola, Castelmagn0, (a local blue Cheese), zabaione, vinegar, d~e and ri¢otto dishes; wild game, and braised meat dishes, such as Bollito Mist0, a sf[ew of four to five different meats. Milan, the large the namesake ~ dip food, usualt beaten eggS, tl Saut~ it in butte known for its ri( sauces~ post rn saffron~ pumpki asparag;Js~ ~au panett(~ne. city of Lombardia, is ~ilanese; meaning tO -iin pieces of meat, into br~adcrumbs, and then .ombardiais also well ~nd dsotto dishes, cream c~eese course, Use of aVi01i, (tortelli di zucca), ge,freshwater fish and Farnese Montepulciano 2006 Whites Bongiovanni Arneis 2006 Masi/Masianco Pino Grigio/Verduzzo 2006 Marchetti Verdicchio 2006 And as always, I say go to your favorite wine shop, ask questions and purchase a bottle or two. Share some food & wine with friends and check this out for yourself. The Veneto is atso an important w ne region, highlighted by So&re, Bardolino; Pr~secco, (sparkling wine), Valpolioella and the flagship Ar~rone. Veneto~ being on the ~aSt, naturally braces deligl~ts from the sea. All kinds of seafood ar~ relished here. But the Veneto is quite diverse culinadly speaking. It is also renowned for its v~getables~ grains and meat as welt. Risot{o, especially from Vialone Nano rice, and polenta are staples. ¯ Common Vegetables include winter squash, radicchio, asparagus, beans, and other legumes. Friuli, the north-eastern most region of Italy is hallmarked by Austrian; Hungarian, Slovenian and Croatian influences. These include but are not limited to Viennese. ._~tww.ozark~star.co_ ~..................... Mr. D also hosts wine & food events known in town as the Wine Enthusiasts of Tulsa. References include: WineSpectator.com FoodandWine.com Wikipedia.org WineCountry.it Masi.it Farnese-vini.com allrecipes.com/Howto/Italian-Wine-CountryPiedmont ��Cozume| Join our gay and lesbian group aboard Carnival Conquest~ as we set sail from Galveston and call on the beautiful ports in Montego Bay, Grand Cayman and Cozumel. There is no better way to celebrate Halloween than aboard a funship with Gayribbean Cruises. We offer: Our fantastic Halloween Costume Party, Nightly Mixers and SO MUCH MORE ! Book eedy and save. Ask how to receive $75 shipboard credit! call for complete details. Ratea aad =valhbiRty axe ~ubjec¢ to change without noti e. "Ihis is not an alLgay cruise. Ship ~try: Panama For information & Reservations www.GayribbeanCruises.com NCarnrval. �by Donald Pile and Ray Williams Actually a bus trip isn’t all that bad, especially when you are traveling with other fun people. Although ,ve have never taken a bus trip across the country (and dofft think that we ever would) we have a lot of friends who have and enjoyed it greatly. We have taken several "day bus trips" from San Francisco, Las Vegas and on the east coast and all of them were quite interesting. From Las Vegas we took the bus trip to Hoover Dam and to the smaller casino cities of Laughlin. These bus trips were extremely inexpensive in that they drop you offat a couple of casinos and assume that you will gamble a lot. Most of them even throw in flee lunch and dinner and drinks. Sometimes they even thro~v in an afternoon show. Most all of the people that go to Las Vegas are truly a different breed and aren’t interested in taking bus tours and we have found that the ones who do are more enjoyable and interesting to talk with. In San Francisco it is just so much easier taking a bus trip to either the Wine Country or down to Carmel and Monterey and Pebble Beach. They drop you off right in the center of town and pick you up at the same location a couple of hours later. You certainly don’t have any parking problems as when you drive there, and a bus trip to the Wine Country gives you a much better opportunity to taste all the different wines without having to worry about a DUI while drive back to San Francisco. On the east coast we have taken "day bus trips" in Boston, New York City, Washington, D. C. and Philadelphia. Being such histori- 18 th÷$TAR cal cities this is a great way to really get to see everything. Parking in large cities is such a challenge and the buses seem to always have their own parking areas close to whatever attraction you are going. Even smaller cities like Savannah, Georgia offers extremely interesting bus tours around the city. But if you’re really up to it, then take a bus tour all across the country. They stop every evening at the designation lodging facility and you’re on your own until the next morning. You don’t have to dine or socialize with anybody other than your own choosing. Check out your local Sunday newspapers in the travel section and they usually have ads for these bus tours. Small towns that have casino gambling are always having specials. We have seen ads where you pay $50.00 up front for a 5 day bus tour which includes your traveling, hotels, food and drinks and shows! Plus, you get the $50.00 back in gaming money at the casino. You can’t stay at home that cheap! Some people enjoy taking bus trips down to Mexico which certainly saves the hassle of driving your own automobile across the border and you certainly are in a position to feel safer. Most bus companies are regulated rather stringently, and especially when driving to Mexico you need to feel safe. ..................... Continued page 27 www.ozarksstar.com �INTERNATIONAL GAY & LESBIAN TRAVEL ASSOCIATION and FUNMAPS, COM By Donald Pile and Kay Williams IGLTA is the world’s leading travel trade association committed to gro,ving and enhancing its member’s gay and lesbian tourism business through education, promotion and networking. You can search, contact and utilize their members around the world for all your travel needs. Whether you are looking for a gay travel business in your local city/town or a tour around the world, their members understand your travel needs. By going to their website, www.iglta.com you can search through their entire database of gay and straight IGLTA members to find just what you are looking for. Founded in 1983 with 25 founding members, the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA) is today a 1000 plus member strong and growing organization of gay, lesbian and community friendly travel professionals. IGLTA members represent both retailers and suppliers as well as travel columnists like ourselves. They represent travel agencies, tour operators, resorts, hotels, motels, Bed and Breakfasts, airlines, cruise lines, car rental companies, local tourist offices, regional and national tourist boards and the travel media. John Tanze!l is the Executive Director and their international headquarters is located at 915 Middle River Drive, Suite #306, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304. Their toll-free telephone number is: 1-800-448-8550. In May 2008, IGLTA will take Sin City by storm! From April 30 until May 4, 2008, Las Vegas will host the Annual Convention of the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association. The host hotel is the Flamingo. That website is: http://www.iglta.orglconvention/and that website is your one stop shop. Here is where you will find updates, registration information, hotel and air information as well as anything else you could possibly want to learn about this one of a kind event. Among the many workshops that will be taking place are: Vegas Adventures, How to Buy/Sell Unique Destinations, How to Access the Gay and Lesbian www.ozarksstar.corn Market, Internet Marketing, L World - Why Lesbians may be your best customers, Gay Comfort Hotel Programs, Marketing Strategies for Staying Competitive in the Gay & Lesbian Tourism Market, Unique destinations for Gay & Lesbian Travel, Teaming Up with Gay and Lesbian Events, Guerilla Marketing and Hotel/Bed and Breakfast trends. Legendary author Armistead Maupin will be our keynote speaker for the event. There will also be a National Trade Show in conjunction with the Convention. Anxong the many National sponsors of the IGLTA are:Airlines, Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Center, MGM-MIRAGE, Canada Tourism Commission, Wyndam Hotels and Resorts, HARRAH’S, AIG Travel Insurance, Alamo Car Rentals, National Car Rentals, American Airlines, Continental Airlines, Delta Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Macy’s Department Stores, Ottawa Tourism Center, Marriott Hotels and Resorts and this is only a portion of the national sponsors. If you go to their website you can check out their list of activities and the calendar of events. They list over a dozen every month all around the ~vorld. OutWest Global Adventures is one of our favorites. Check out their website at www.outwestadventures. com. or email them at: info@outwestadventures.corn and their phone number is 800-743-0458. They schedules all over the world. feature a "places to see" page and great maps of each city so that you can find your way around easily. They have brochures on the following cities: Asbury Park, Atlanta, Atlantic City, Austin, Baltimore, Banff/Jasper, Boston, Brooklyn, Calgary, Chicago, Columbus, Dallas, Denver, Edmonton, Fire Island, Ft. Lauderdale, Halifax, Houston, Jacksonville, Key West, Lake Tahoe, Las Vegas, Long Island, Los Angeles, Manhattan, Miami and Miami Beach, Minneapolis, Montreal, Myrtle Beach, Napa Valley, New Hope, New Orleans, New York City, Niagara, Okanagan Valley, Orange County, Orlando, Palm Springs, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Portland, Providence, Provincetown, Quebec City, Rehoboth Beach, Sacramento, San Antonio, San Diego, San Francisco, Saskatoon, Seattle, Sonoma County/Russian River, South Dakota, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria, Washington D.C., Whistler and Wilton Manors. Hopefully in the near future they will come out with a funmap brochure for Missouri featuring Kansas City, St. Louis, Columbia, Springfield and Joplin. Funmap brochures can be picked up free at hundreds of bars around the country and you can also check them out on line at www.funmaps.com. Their maps are the most circulated gay publication in the world, with 3.5 million users every year. FUNMAPS.com is the leading authority for gays and lesbians visiting anywhere in the United States and Canada. They have yearly "funmap brochures" on all of the major cites in the country. They have been publishing their brochures for over 25 years. Alan Beck is the publisher and lives in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. We were fortunate to be his guests at his lovely estate there. His life-partner Nick is a wonderful person and they had a house guest, Norma from the Northeast who was a delight. Alan is one of the most charming gentlemen that we have ever met. The brochures feature accommodations, restaurants/cafes, night life and shopping. Their funmaps brochures also ~heSTAR t9 �Matsuya serves excellent sushi and Japanese fare, including such knock-’out starters as deep-fried chicl~en wings and whitefish with smelt roe. Although many imitators have opened nearby, Mia Francesca remains the best place in the neighborhood for sophisticated but simple Northern Italian fare. You could survive solely- on the flaky, freshly baked cinnanmn rolls that accompany every" meat at the hallowed Swedish diner Ann Sather, which has several gay-popular locations. Chicago Diner, and serves that �A swank, smoke-free lounge known for its colorful cocktails and slick crowd, Minibar opened somewhat recently and has become a favorite affer~work spot. A circuit-boy favorite on weekends, Circuit pulses with a feverish tate-ni~t dance crowd even at midweek, when Latin nights are a hit. °l~ne stylish Berlin disco draws a decidedly fiankier and more alternative crowd than most of the preppy haunts in Lakeview. Nearby Spin is an eclectic gay club with an alla~es crowd and fun dance music. Charlie’s brinas in fans ofcountry~ffestern music, while the Gentry on Halsted is ~ Boystown branch of downtowffsppo ular piano bar, favored for happy hour and later for live cabaret. Leather-and-Levi’s types cruise the Cell Block. Steamworks Chicago is a popular, clean, well-run sauna - it’s one of the nicest such facilities in the country. cheese, and a ranow-smoky sauce. One of the most talked-ab0ut new eateries in the area, Anteprima turns out superb modern Italian fare and has a wan’. dining room with pressed-tin ceilings and a s~.~ded patio in back. Don’t pass up the grilled quail marinated in honey with balsan~ic vinegar and pancetta. A lively and atmospheric bistro with a decidedly queer following, Tomboy serves tempting fare like pan-seared duck with crimini mushrooms mid a port glaze, T’S is a friendly, gay-popular restaurant and bar - it s a favorite lesbian date spot, known for healthful American food. ~hste of Heaven Baker), is a great pick for delectable breakfasts and lunches, plus iCresh-baked snacks throughout the day - the flied-egg sandwiches and peaches-and-cream French toast are favorites in the morning. Ano~er wonderful spot to satisfy your sugar fix is Sweet Occasions, which serves some of the thickest and richest ice cream in the city, plus fantast,c cupcakes, cherry cobbler, and homemade fudge. It’s hard not to love this old-fashioned parlor with ice-cream sundaes named for the seven deadly sins. The "Lust" (a chipotle brownie topped with cinnamon ice cream, hot fudge, whipped cream, and red hots) may leave you lusting t~br another trip to these two charming Chicago neighborhoods ..... www.ozarksstar.com {5eSTAR 21 �our entire lives! "17hey were crispy, tender and extremely delicious. We naturally had to get their recipe to share with our readers. After lunch we had some of their home-made apple pie which was great, but not as great as the onion rings. If you’re ever in that part of the country, be sure and stop by and dine there. They have no phone, no address with just a small sign in front but you can’t miss it as it is the only restaurant in town. We asked our waitress who owned the restaurant and she said, "Bob & Jim’. She had ,vorked there for over 3 years and had never met them. Rather strange, but as long as they make extraordinary onion rings, we don’t care. BOB & IIM’S CAFE So, when you’r traveling, you never know what you might find. Sometimes it turns out good and sometimes it turns out bad, but just keep on "truckin". Greydiff, Montana We love to dine at fine restaurants around the country but sometimes we hit upon a little diner that looks as though it is just the "perfect" place to stop. Last fall on our driving trip back from Seattle, Washington we were driving thru Montana around noonish and we were both getting hungry so we decided to pull into the next to~vn and get something to eat. Lo and behold the next town in Montana was Greycliff, a town of about 450 people (if you count the two of us). Really not much there except it is right on the Interstate. When we walked into the only restaurant in town, they KNEW that we were not from their fair town, or even that we were from Montana! All eyes were upon us. The last time that anyone in the restaurant had ever seen that many diamond rings was when they went to their local Walmart! We were the only ones there that didn’t wear cowboy hats, blue jeans, cowboy boots or bib overalls. We really thought about turning right around and walking back to our auto, but decided to stay. Our waitress was rather like Flo from the TV series, ALICE with a rather shrieking voice but pleasant. We had been dining for the past two weeks on west coast seafood so decided to try something a little more middle American so we ordered a chicken flied steak lunch. Our waitress, whose real name was Minnie May suggested that we also order the onion rings which she said were the best in the entire State of Montana. We almost didn’t order them but she kept insisting so ~ve did. To our pleasant surprise, they were some of the finest onion rings that we have ever had in 22 th~STAR Let us promote your business in a UNIQUE & DIVERSE market. Call STAR ADVERTISING today. www.ozarksstar.com �XANDER, CAPTURES MR GAY US ofA MI 2008 TITLE AT ANGLES By Victor Gorin OkJahomans for Equa] ity opens new exhibit featuring artist Amie Montedoro at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center TULSA, OK (PR) __ The Dennis R. Neill Equality Center art gallery will host its monthly First Thursday meet-theartist reception from 6-9pm, Thursday, April 3, 2008, for the opening of it’s April exhibit, paintings by Amie Montedoro. Winners Xander & 1 st runnerup Owen McCord OKLAHOMA CITY, OK __ A new facet of pageantry was introduced to Oklahoma when the first contest for male impersonation was held in Oklahoma City March 12-15. q-he national competition for this new division of the US of A system, Mr Gay US of A, concluded at Angles with the crowning of Xander of Tennessee with 1st alternate Owen McCord of Atlanta, Georgia. This new contest is owned by the first Mr. Gay US ofA MI, the famous Gage Gatlin and his partner Brenda Quayle. Mr.Gatlin wowed the audience with a style that even made some gay men swoon, talent garnered from years of experience beginning in Jacksonville, Florida. Gage and Brenda have made their home in Tulsa, having begun this contest in August of this year. Mr.Gatlin has gone into retirement, however he will still perform for large charity events. They are looking forward to next year’s contest, which will feature contestants winning preliminary or regional contests, of which there are already 10 planned. ~wvw.ozarksstar.com Montedoro’s art is a refreshing look at the beauty of women who have taken charge of their own sexuality. The feminine form, as the perfect balance between the sacred and the profane, embodies the duplicity that is woman; as Madonna, as Whore. The eldest daughter of accomplished architect and educator Richard Montedoro (Norman, Ok.), Amie has been taught from a young age the importance of self expression. A tactile artist, Amie prefers to create her art not with brushes or tools; rather she uses her fingers to apply all but the most intricate of details and finishing touches. From concept to creation, Amie uses traditional techniques along with the relationship garnered from having her hands actually create the form and emotion of women who are sexually comfortable, capable, and liberated. The exhibit will remain up through the month of April, and can be viewed Monday thru Saturday from 3-gpm. The Dennis R. Neill Equality Center is located at 621 E. 4th St., in downtown Ttflsa. More info can be found on the web at okeq.org. This monthly event is hosted by Oklahoman’s for Equality (OkEq). OkEq seeks equal rights for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender (LGBT) individuals and families through advocacy, education, programs, alliances, and the operation of the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. Kern Responds to Activist Criticisms OKI~A_HOMA CITY, OK (PR) __State Rep. Sally Kern (R-Oklahoma City) issued the following statement in response to the criticisms of homosexual activists who have objected to a recent speech she gave on their efforts to promote their agenda at both the federal and state level. "To put this simply, as a Christian I believe homosexuality is not moral. Obviously, you have the right as an American to choose that lifestyle, but I also have the right to express my views and my fellow Oklahomans have the right to debate these issues. "In recent years homosexual activists have begun to aggressively promote their agenda through the political process, often providing substantial financing to candidates who agree with their views, including many running for state legislative races. National publications such as Time, The Atlantic and USA Today have noted that trend. That is their right, just as it is my right to voice opposition to their agenda, which I have been asked to do at several public forums in recent months. That’s what democracy is all about. It appears some homosexual activists believe only one group is allowed a voice in this debate. I disagree. ’~k vigorous debate on an issue is not ’hate speech’ - it’s free speech. I have made clear my opposition to the agenda of homosexual activists, but I have never endorsed or supported any hateful action targeting individuals on the other side of this debate and never will. The fact that many gay rights activists claim anyone opposing their agenda is engaging in ’hate speech’ says more about them than me. "Most Oklahomans are socially conservative and believe marriage is a sacred institution, the union of one man and one woman, and that the traditional family is worth protecting and preserving. When I campaigned for office, I promised my constituents to stand up for those values, and I do not apologize for keeping my word." theSTAR 23 ���By Ronald Blake By the time you read this, the Academy Awards gadabouts will be looking forward to next year’s red carpet faux pas. You will likely have listened ad nauseam to the incessant prattling of that sham fashion critic Joan Rivers. You will probably be joining the droves of lemmings to rent the Oscar winning movies at the corner Blockbuster. I will now beseech your participation for my health version of the body’s Academy Awards. I promise to shut up when the music starts to play. The winner for best editing goes to the reticular activating system, or the RAS as it is known to the medical snobs, q-his system was responsible for filtering all the unnecessary dreck that made its way to your brain during the past year. It decided what was important for you to pay attention to. It concluded that 99% of the sensory input that approached your cerebral cortex was to be ignored. Without this RAS, you would likely have been bombarded with an overload of drab detail all around you. The kind of overload you would experience while on the drug LSD, which does temporarily disable the RAS. The winner for best supporting role goes to the diaphragm. This veteran provided enough action and drama for five hysterical queens. It was capable of providing sufficient pressure change in your thoracic cavity to send blood soaring happily back to the heart on many an occasion. It has so ardently allowed you to give that much needed extra push while grunting and groaning on the toilet. It was even so 26 theSTAR chivalrous to accompany you to the health club and save you from muscle tears during your heavy lifting exercises. The best makeup award is presented to the circulatory system for its presentation of the numerous bruises that you displayed to the world. These hematomas are more than just clotted blood masses and it is long overdue that the Academy finally recognizes these purveyors of black and blue marks. They maintained their iridescent beauty until the body naturally reabsorbed the escaped blood that clotted just beneath the skin’s surface. There were many nonainees for great body parts and their exciting roles. With all due respect to the aforementioned winners, the body does function as a whole and winning team. Keep learning about your anatomy and physiology. This knowledge is what will keep you healthy and prepare you for the recipient of the lifetime achievement award. This column is brought to you by that guy who frequendy and sophomorically ordered Whopper sandwiches while in the McDonald’s drive-throughs in his carefree youth. That guy is Ron Blake and he can be castigated at www.goblakefimess.com. The best leading role goes to the lungs. This organ is usually secondary to the perennial favorites such as the heart, brain, or the stomach. This year the voters spoke and showed the world that nobody puts the lungs in a corner. This tour de force has provided the heart with all its oxygen which in turn has provided the properly conditioned blood for your brain’s processing of your impure thoughts and the stomach’s digesting of those roast beef sandwiches ladled with horsey sauce. The best director goes to the adrenaline. This litde behemoth was responsible for preparing all your body parts for that fight or flight reaction when you came face to face with that curmudgeonly pit bull in the park. Audience members cheered furiously when you chose the flight version and outpaced the Hound of the Baskervilles and then leapt that six foot brick wall to the safety of those hydrangea bushes on the other side. Only a capable director could cajole you out of your slothful ways to negotiate that feat. www.ozarksstar.com �GAY TRAVELERS: Almost al! the bus tours allow their passengers to take their own food with them and if you are careful and not out in the open about it, you can take your own liquor for a 5 o’clock drink or two. We know several people who have taken a bus tour from California to Alaska and they all say that it was splendid. Buses nowadays are not like yesterday. They are all extremely comfortable with air-cushioned suspension. They of course all have restrooms on board and they make frequent stops for dining and shopping. On the longer tours they usually have a host/hostess traveling with you to answer any and all questions. Sometimes in one’s life it just makes more sense to take a bus tour rather than driving your own automobile. If this is something that might be in your future plans we highly suggest that perhaps you might start offwith just a day trip and see how you like it and then progress to a longer one. There are a lot of single people taking these bus tours so for the single people out there, you don’t need to feel alone when traveling. We have made good acquaintances on our day tours that we took several years ago and still keep in touch with them. Bus tours are not for everybody but perhaps it might be something to look into for your future travel plans. And speaking of Las Vegas, "Gay Days & Nights Las Vegas" is coming up July 3rd thru the 6th. This wil! be their 2nd year of presenting the Gay Days & Nights. Presenting sponsor Cirque du Soleil will be featuring special events and discounts throughout the Gay Days & Nights July 3-6, to showcase their Las Vegas productions. Attendees of Gay Days & Nights Las Vegas will have an opportunity to see any or all of the shows combined with invitationonly special events, drawings and incentives planned for each night including LOVE at Mirage, KA at MGM Grand, ZUMANITY at New-York Hote! & Casino and Mystere at Treasure Island. PARIS Hotel & Casino is the host accommodations and you can check them out at Parislasvegas.com. For more information check their website at http://www.gaydaysandnights.com/. Also when going to Las Vegas be sure and check out http://www.lasvegaspride.org/. Always remember to have fun when traveling, meet new people and talk to everyone! ~,wvw.ozarksstar.com British gays f~ght b{ood ban A new British group called Bloodban is seeking to overturn the nation’s ban on blood donation by non-celibate gay men, the BBC reported March 7. Organizers are circulating a petition that they plan to deliver to Prime Minister Gordon Brown. The National Blood Service believes gay men are too high-risk because of the short gap between one’s getting infected with HIV and when the virus can be detected by a blood test. Bloodban says people should be excluded based on their lifestyle, not because of their membership in a particular social group. ~e activists propose that gay men be banned as donors only if they have had unprotected sex in the past 18 months. israeli bashers sent to prison Four Jerusalem gay-bashers were sent to prison for two to eight years March 6 by the Tel Aviv District Court, Ynetnews reported. Typically, the bashers used a decoy cruiser to pick up men seeking sex with men at Tel Aviv’s old central bus station. Once in the victim’s car, the decoy would direct him to another location where the other bashers joined in beating, stripping and robbing the victim. Two other men have been indicted for nearly identical crimes at Jerusalem’s central bus station. In one case, one of the bashers bit off a portion of one victim’s ear, Ynet said. Netherlands plans legalization of park sex People having sex in the park xvill be expected to do so only after dark and out of public viexv. They also must not leave condoms lying about. Meanxvhile, the police institute’s National Diversity Expertise Center is advising other cities to follow Amsterdam’s lead. It said legalizing park sex would help protect gay men from queer-bashers. The Amsterdam branch of the Dutch national gay group COC (now knoxvn only by its formal initials) xvelcomed the nexvs. "Cruising is something belonging to all times and banning it does not work anyway," said chairman Dennis Boutkan. "They do it surreptitiously and mostly without others being annoyed by it. By agreeing on rules of behavior, safety can be increased." Spanish gay-marriage PIVt wins reelection Spanish voters re-elected Prime Minister Josd Luis Rodrlguez Zapatero on March 9, apparently unperturbed that he made Spain one of only six nations that grant gay couples access to full marriage. Zapatero’s Socialist party took 43.7 percent of the vote, besting the conservative Popular Party, which grabbed 40.1 percent. Belgium, Canada, the Netherlands, South Africa and the U.S. state of Massachusetts also have opened up ordinary marriage to same-sex couples. SGYrdneff. GLBT Mardi as Picks Gayest Song Ever. S~qDNEY, AU __ ABBA’s Dancing Queen, which has been ranked by visitors to Australia’s SameSame.com.au website as the gayest song of all time in a list compiled to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. It will no longer be illegal to have sex in Amsterdam’s Vondel Park under regulations set to take effect later this year, De Telegraaf reported March 7. The Village People’s YMCA came in second, followed by Gloria Gaynor’s I Will Survive. "Why should we try to maintain something that is actually impossible to maintain, which also causes little bother for others and, for a certain group, actually signifies much pleasure?" asked Oud-Zuid district Alderman Paul van Grieken. "The list was compi]ed in the lead-up to the 30th Anniversary of Sydney’s Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras to look back on the catalogue of popular music to decide which of them are truly worthy to be labelled a camp classic," SameSame.com.au said. th÷STAR 27 �by Jack Fertig April 2008 "Recharge your batteries, Taurus!" Venus entering Aries provides a challenging spark to the profound re-evaluations of responsibility being raised by Pluto and Saturn. Be patient, take the long view, and rise to the challenge of seeing how your impulses can be harnessed to deep and necessary changes. ARIES (March 20 -April 19): Venus is in your sign, and it’s a great time for a makeover. Looking good professionally is more important than just looking gorgeous, so freshen up your work as well as your appearance. Looking good in lieu of accomplishment will fool no one. TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): Allow yourself time to be alone. Recharge your batteries; take time to think about important issues, to organize hobbies or crafts, or to look more critically at some of your creative efforts. When you need fresh air, do some volunteer work. GEMINi (May 21 - June.20): Throwing yourself into some community efforts will bdng you to unanticipated challenges. You can overcome them, but will have to re-evaluate how you network with others, and how you support and use community structures. SAG~TTAR~US (November 22 o December 20): You could accomplish a great deal, earning fame and fortune. The creative impulse that should feed such progress is more likely to be a distraction. Harnessing that power productively is challenging. Don’t give in to impulse. Structure and discipline are now your best bet. CAPRICORN (December 21 -January 19): Suddenly focusing on what you value about your home and tribe, you can become very assertive and defensive. Try to take a longer view, asserting the value of your clan as part of a larger community or humanity, not distinct from it. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): To become even more comfortable with your deepest, most private feelings about sex and/or death, you need to challenge yourself to examine these most irrational mysteries with some logic. Find someone with whom you can discuss your secret feelings. PISCES (February 19 - March 19): The fault is probably not with your partner and friends, but in what you imagine - wrongly - to be their chief assets. Try to see what they offer and what you offer to them in a new light, one that will improve all your relationships. CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Making useful connections may feel cynical. The truth is, you tend to be a little too romantic and shouldn’t be shy about basing relationships on something practical. Focus your urge to edit on yourself; others rarely appreciate it. LEO (July 23 .- August 22): You’re suddenly impatient to make your mark in a new territory. Stop and think. Rather than wasting this energy in some egoistic indulgence, you can apply your skills to present your most valued ideas and talents. VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Be bold and daring. Traits you’ve experienced as liabilities can prove very advantageous if you try playing with them - perhaps in dark, subversive ways. Erotic role play can unlock power where you thought you were weak. LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): Nice people can argue nicely. Assert your points respectfully and hear your partner - or your opponent - out. Be open to new perspectives on cherished traditions. Some long-accepted history als0 needs a fresh look. SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): You’re itching to make some much-needed innovations at work. As good as. your ideas are, be sure to discuss any plans with colleagues, and not just for diplomacy’s sake. You can learn from their ideas and improve upon your own improvements. METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES Rev Steve 3". Urie Spirit of Christ MCC 2902 E 20th Street Joplin, MO 64804 417-529-8480 Worship Saturdays at 10:00 AM Community Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM MCC of the Living Spring 17 Elk Street Eureka Spdngs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays at 6:00 PM Have a God filled and BleSSed Day! 28 theSTAR www.ozarksstar.com �tis÷ s Support those who support us, DOWNTOWN PLAZA of TULSA 17 \Vest 7th Street Tulsa, OK 918-585-5898 www.downtownplazatulsa.com DIVERSITY CHRISTIAN CNTR 211 S. Garnett Tulsa, OK 74128 v~vw.realacceptance.com HABANA INN 2200 bD,v4 39TH F~XPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-528-2221 www.habanainn.com OUR HOUSE, TOO 203 N. Nogales Ave Tulsa, OK 74127 918-585-9552 KELLY KIRBY, CPA 4815 S. HARVARD, SUITE 424 Tulsa, OK * 918-747-5466 Certified Public Accountant SUSAN HARTMAN Independent Broker Oklahoma and Arkansas 918-698-2977 susanlhartman@gmail.com ANGLES 2117 NW 39th St. Oklahoma City, OK x~vw.anglesclub.com BkaMBOO LOUNGE 7204 E. PINE Tulsa, OK 918-836-8700 www.bambooloungetulsa.com CLUB MAJESTIC 124 N. BOSTON Tulsa, OK 918-584-9494 www.clubmajestictulsa.com FINISHLINE 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE COPA 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESS\VgAy Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 v~vw.habanainn.com THE LEDO 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com www.ozarksstar.com HOPE TESTING CLINIC 3540 E. 31st Tulsa, OK 800-535-2437 Oklahoma’s HIV/STD Hotline GUSHER’S RESTAURMNT 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 Located inside Habana Inn GAYRIBBEAN CRUISES www.gayribbeancruises.com 877-560-8318 SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC 2902 E. 20TH STREET, Joplin, MO * 479-529-8480 Service Saturday 9:30 AM MCC of the HVING SPRING 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays 6pm OPENARMS YOUTH PROJECT 2015 -B S. Lakewood Tulsa, OK 74112 918-838-7104 www. openarmsproject.org JUDY G. PHOTO’S Tulsa, OK judygphoms@sbcglobal.net 918-743-8636 CENTURY 21 GOLD CASTLE 3627 NW EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405-840-2106 www.c2 lgoldcastle.com Want the STAR delivered to your home or business? 12 issues for $33.95 will be mailed in a sealed envelope the 1st of each month. Complete the form below and send with a check or moneyorder to: ¯he STAR 5103 S. Sheridan Rd., #153 Tulsa, OK 74145 (Single Copies $3.00 per issue) NAlVlE: Address: CHUCK BRECKENRIDGE Keller Williams Realty Tulsa, OK 918-706-1887 GAY BRADY HEIGHTS-Tulsa New and Historic Homes for Sale and Rent For Info: www.gaybradyheightstulsa.com St: Zip: Phone: Check enclosed Money Order Start Date: th÷STAR 29 �Keller Williams Realty Whether buying or selling I’ll work hard for you. ,REALACCEPTANCE,COM mdaekfinitio,n..; the cos,int [Re f,gr m,,ost to..... e a amerence llves of.u...s, oT (~Lt~l Teens in Oklahoma.) You can help our teens. Support Open Arms Youth Project. For more Info: www. openarmsproject.org 30 t5eSTAR www.ozarksstar.com ��drugs +, HIL.~ Learn ~t~he Link �� Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data magazine Text Any textual data included in the document ESTABLISHED 2003 www.ozarksstar.com APRIL 2008 "The homosexual agenda is destroying this nation." "1 honestly think it’s the biggest threat our nation has, even more so than terrorism or Islam. They have infiltrated City Councils. They are after your 2 year olds for indoctrination." State Representative, District 84, Sally Kern. Compiled by Star staff Photo: Rally at Memorial Park Oklahoma City. ¯hese sentiments expressed by State Representative Sally Kern were taped at a Republican gathering who had invited her to speak on what some term the homosexual agenda. The tape was given to the Victory Fund, a national gay & lesbian political activist group and placed on ¥outube, where it has now been heard by over 1,000,000 people. It has garnered international attention with responses that have overwhelmed Youtube, and to say that the lines of communication with Ms. Kern were jammed would be a classic understatement. Ellen Degeneres was not surprised when she tried to contact Sally Kern after playing the youtube video on her show and couldn’t even leave a message. Although the audience was obviously not in agreement with Sally, Ellen appealed to Miss Kern on the air, stating that she wanted to talk to her, that she obviously had some misinformation. Although some responses received by Ms Kern were supportive, the vast majority were not, and many were threatening and are being investigated by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation. At a Press Conference at the Church of the Open Arms March 11, Cimarron Alliance President Richard Ogden, among many others, denounced Ms. Kern’s remarks and stated that she should apologize or be censured by the Oklahoma House of Representatives. As he put it, "These are hateful words that can result in hateful actions, This is about accountability, not freedom of expression." It was pointed out that only 3 months earlier, Stephen Domer of Oklahoma City was murdered because he was gay. So far Ms. Kern has refused to apologize and the Speaker of the House, Republican Chris Benge ofTulsa, has stated he will not call for Ms. Kern to be censured. However Governor Brad Henry stated that he advised her to "Think before you speak. Oklahomans have love and tolerance for all people. I don’t think this rhetoric represents Oklahoma." P-Flag of Oklahoma has asked for a meeting with her, but has gotten no response. Her statement that the gay community was a bigger threat than terrorism or Islam drew fire from both military personnel and Oklahoma’s Muslim community. At the Church press conference Richard Ogden pointed out that one of the four people on United Airlines Flight 93 who overpowered the hijackers who were heading the airliner to the White House, Mark Bingham, was gay. Another speaker at the conference, Jerre B. Fine, a Air Force veteran, stated that she was honored to serve her country and that Sally Kern’s comments that gays were a bigger threat than terrorism or Islam, and were a cancer in the toe of society were very hurtful on a personal level. She pointed out that "I served my country dutifully and honorably for 6 years of my life. We need protection not only from outside forces trying to destroy America, but also we need protection from within from people like Sally Kern." On March 14 there was a rally at Memorial Park featuring signs along Classen Boulevard encouraging rush hour travelers to honk to show opposition to Representative Kern’s remarks. The event got extensive television coverage, and featured many community leaders. Most important of all was that the responses from OKC’s commuters were overwhelmingly supportive. In a recent Tulsa World poll, the question was: Would you sign the petition to have Sally Kern removed from office? ..............Continued PAGE 5 ®MISS GAY TULSA PAGEANT April 25th 10prn. Featuring - Miss Gay Tulsa America - Melody Micheals and Miss Gay Oklahoma Lindsey Paige. for more information email: information@downtownplazatulsa.com 2 the STAR vwvw.ozarksstar.com 1 DS (2437) Recognized by Keller Williams For outstanding achievement 2005 and 2006 R~ALTY Chuck Breckenridge 918-706-1887 REALTOI~ Whether buying or selling I’ll work hardforyo~ Get the STAR delivered to your home or office. 12 issues only $33.95. Send Check or Money Order to: The STAR 5103 S. Sheridan Rd., #153 Tulsa, OK 74145 Seepage 29for order blank. ,J www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 3 APRIL, State News continues on page 6, 9, 11 and 23 LGBT History looks at the life ofTallulah Bankahead, Actress Movies, TV, Stage and Radio World Briefs By Rex Wockner - Wockner News Service ~DEEP ~INSIDE HOLLYWOOD Deep Inside Hollywood, reports on new projects for George Clooney and Simon ~WiNE Devre Jackson reviews wines of Northem Italy. Beer-Battered Onion Rings from Bob & Jim’s Care, Greycliff, Montana. Gay Travelers: Bus Trips & Tours Out of Town: Chicago STAR SCENE Snapshots from around the State. Paparazzi on page 25 FITNESS Introspection can lead you to better understand yourself and ultimately to achieve greater happiness. ON THE COVER: Photo byVictor Gorin 4 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com Embrace the Passior o£ the Prom. Pride Prom 2008 makes comeback to PAC By Joey De TULSA, OK__ When the sun sets April 19, the Tulsa Performing Arts Center will heat up with the passion of Spain as the University ofTulsa’s Bisexual, Lesbian, Gay and Transgender alliance present Pride Prom 2008, "Bailamos!" The event, which has called the PAC home for three years, offers BLGT youth and their friends the opportunity to celebrate the prom season with their chosen date. ’~A lot of BLGT youth can’t take the prom date of their choice (to their high school’s prom), this is an opportunity to express themselves freely," says Steven Hulford, one of the organization’s leaders. For the TU-BLGTA, Pride Prom is a way to give back to the community and make memories for BLGTA youth, regardless of if they are TU students or not. "We are in or eighth year of doing this event," says Hulford. "Each year it has grown from being in the Great Hall of the Allen Chapman Activity Center (a building on campus), to what it is now." According to Hulford, this year’s Spanish theme was picked from a long list of ideas. "We wanted to do something completely different from what we had done in the past," he says noting previous themes of Hollywood and water. "We’re calling it ’Bailamos’ because the literal translation is ’we dance’." At the event, Hulford says youth can expect all the food, music and fun of a traditional high school prom. In addition, attendees will have access to a "Resource Row," that will feature organizations who provide quality services to BLGT youth. Beginning at 7:30, the event runs until 11:00 and does not require formal dress. "The only things we don’t allow are torn jeans and shorts, other than that people are welcome to dress how they feel comfortable. People have come in formal prom attire and have come in polo shirts and slacks," explains Mr. Hulford. Tickets for Pride Prom 2008 are $10 in advance at www.myticketoffice.com and $12 at the door. For information on sponsorship and branding opportunities, contact the group’s advisor, Nancy Eggen at 918.744.9182. SOONER STATE SOFTBALL ASSOCIATION HOLDS OKLAHOMA CITY TOURNAMENT Leroy Cobb & Laurie Proole MC’s at Angles Furndraiser for Sooner State Softball 26 teams ( 21 men’s, 5 women’s) came together at Boomtown Field and the Softball Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City March 15-16 to enjoy the comraderie of softball competition. Now in its 5th year, the Sooner State Softball Association offers the GLBT community the opportunity to show off their skills or learn the game among friends. According to SSSA Commissioner Leroy Comp, it also provides a way "to see some great softball." The SSSA is part of the North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance, a confederation of GLBT athletic teams in both the United States and Canada. New players are always welcome, so if you’d like to try your hand, call Mr.Comp and (405) 408 2533 or e-mail him at cutupok@aol.com. FRONT PAGE CONTINUED: Yes: 129 No: 86 I don’t know: 6 The results of this question represent the opinions of 221 people with the following demographic profile: Oklahomans: 80.5 % Male: 127 Female: 94 In response to Kern’s statement that Eureka Springs City Council was controlled by gays. A press statement was issued by the Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce and the straight Mayor, Dani Joy: "Since its founding in 1879, Eureka Springs has been and remains welcoming to all visitors and residents without regard to their race, color, sex, age, sexual orientation, disability, or national origin. It is our hope that all people would aspire to this ideal. Because of the timeless beauty of our architecture and landscape, the friendliness of our citizens and our welcoming attitude toward all visitors, we remain a destination for people from all walks of life. Eureka Springs will remain a city eager to provide all visitors a fulfilling vacation experience." Mayor Dani Joy" Oklahomans have spoken out, we’ve demonstrated, protested, sent letters and email to our elected officials, and have gained international attention. Media from around the world has covered the embarrassing tirade of Rep. Kern. This international spodight may be to our advantage. Our activist groups have experienced an influx of out of state contributions since the stoW broke. We’ve gotten the attention of national and international advocacy organizations. We have discovered many new main stream allies in Oklahoma. The House and Senate leadership may allow the five hate crimes bills currently before them to receive full consideratioia. There is a positive side to this degrading display of (Shame on Sally) Most importantly we have the right to vote, and Sally was voted into office. Come November and in future elections know your candidate before you mark that spot on the ballot. It could make an important difference in our future. www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 5 editor Dear Editor, When is enough, really enough? We have been reading and watching the national news about Oklahoma State Rep. Sally Kern, R-Oklahoma City, saying "gay agenda is a greater threat to America than terrorism." Although we do not live in Oldahoma, we have been visiting your great state for over 30 years. We are extremely concerned when a public official such as an elected State Representative makes such remarks. ¯his is really nothing short of a "hate crime" in itselfl It is one thing for a regular citizen of the country to make remarks such as this but when a public official says it, then it is obviously crossing the line. As gay and lesbian citizens of the United States, we have as much right as anybody else to expect full citizenship. When people such as Ms. Kern spews her hatred to the people of Oklahoma it is WRONG ! It propels hatred in schools, churches and throughout the entire community. Many years ago we took on Anita Bryant for her anti-homosexual drive and we won! So, our dear brothers and sisters in Oklahoma............. have you had enough? Gays and Lesbians throughout the country are fighting for their rights and each and every individual gay and lesbian person in each state must do their part. We cannot suggest an action to take against Ms. Kern however we feel very strongly that action MUST BE TAKEN in whatever form necessary. Whether a full stage sit-in, a recall of her government seat in your State House or whatever. ..... something NEEDS TO BE DONE AND NOW~ Many years have passed since we just stood on the sidelines and took whatever was handed to us, and we never, want to return to those days. We are extremely proud of the progress that gays and lesbians have made. Both Oklahoma City and Tulsa have a very vibrant gay and lesbian community, much more so than most cities around the country their size. OkEq Den,o.unces Rep. Sally Kem’s Ant oGay Tirade TULSA, OK (PR) __Oklahomans for Equality (OkEq) deplores the sentiments expressed by Oklahoma State Representative Sally Kern (R-Oklahoma City) in a YouTube video now generating a firestorm. National and local media outlets are closely covering the controversy sparked by Kern’s claim that homosexuality is "the biggest threat that our nation has, even more so than terrorism or Islam." In a triple play of intolerance, Rep. Kern offends lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) Americans, thousands of women and men defending the United States from terrorist attacks, and Muslims worldwide. Yet, she remains completely unapologetic, citing her right to freedom of speech and claiming, "I have never endorsed or supported any hateful action targeting individuals on the other side of this debate and never will." Rep. Kern’s legislative track record belies her remarks. In 2006, Rep. Kern sponsored legislation that xvould have denied funding to public libraries that refused to segregate books addressing LGBT themes. Rep. Kern has repeatedly used her public office to demonize LGBT Oklahomans and to attempt to deny them the exact same civil liberties she now defends so passionately. This is the height of hypocrisy. "OkEq firmly supports Rep. Kern’s constitutional tight to express her viexvs, but vociferously objects to the actions she takes to prevent LGBT Oklahomans from attaining justice and equality. When elected officials use their power to defame entire categories of people, they abuse the freedom of speech embedded in the First Amendment and violate their responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of their constituents," asserts Justice Waidner, OkEq Executive Director. So instead of just bitching and moaning and groaning about Mrs. Kern, we wish all the gays and lesbians in Oklahoma the best success with this matter. Cordially, Donald Pile and Ray Williams OkEq calls upon the many fair-minded members of the Oklahoma legislature to condemn Rep. Kern’s comments and to pass immediately a state hate crimes law that encompasses sexual orientation and gender identity and expression. We ask for the House and Senate leadership to allow the five hate crimes bills currently before them to receive full consideration on the floor. 6 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 7 4815 S. Harvard Gay men and lesbiansface many special tax situations, whether single or as couples. Proudly serving Tulsa & OKC’s GLBT communities since 1982 8 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com TULSA, OK (PR) __ Health Outreach Prevention Education, Inc. (H.O.P.E.) celebrated its 10th anniversar~ Xgrednesday, March 12, 2008. Invited guests and honorees celebrated at the Dennis R. Nell Fxtuality Center, a long-time community partner where H.O.P.E.’s services began in 1996. The evening included hors d’ oeuvres and recognized key individuals who have been instrumental in the growth and success of the organization. "H.O.P.E. provides a vita! service in the fight against HIV by testing those at risk and also educating the community on safer sex practices. By virtue of their HIV testing being free and anonymous, people at risk can more easily know their status and help stop the transmission of HIV," stated Stephen Eberle, advisory board and 10th Anniversary committee member. In recognition of H.O.P.E.’s 10th Anniversary, the following people and organizations received recognition for the significant impact they have had on the agency since its inception: Ms. Kristi Frisbie, Mr. Jeremy Simmons, the Oklahoma State Department of Health HIWSTD Division, Ms. Janie Nicklas and the Tulsa Community AIDS Partnership Grants Committee, Tulsa CARES, Community of Hope Church, Ms. Debi Sanditen, Dr. Damon Baker, and Oklahomans for Equality. Health Outreach Prevention Education (H.O.P.E.) is an independent, not-for-profit organization that has served Tulsa and surrounding communities since 1998. H.O.P.E. is proud to be recognized as one of the largest and most comprehensive health promotion facilities in Oklahoma, and is the only free, anonymous HIV testing site in a 23-county area. H.O.P.E. also operates the statewide HIWsexually transmitted disease (STD) resource hotline and conducts a variety of targeted outreach efforts focusing on men, women, and under served populations. H.O.P.E. also offers free and low-cost Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C testing and education services. H.O.P.E. provides a comfortable place for people to learn their health status and can connect clients to a variety of medical and social support services. H.O.EE. is supported in part by the Oklahoma State Department of Health, as well as various private foundations, including the Oklahoma AIDS Care Fund, the Tulsa Community AIDS Partnership, the MAC AIDS Fund, and the George B. Kaiser Family Foundation. Raising awareness of HIV/AIDS remains vitally important, as the infection rate remains steady every year in the United States. Young people and minorities are disproportionately affected, but HIV does not discriminate. By knowing your status, you are better able to protect yourself and others. Prevention education and testing are keys to decreasing the stigma and infection rate of HIV. For more information about HIV or sexually transmitted infections, call the Oklahoma HIWSTD Resource Hotline, 1-800-535-MDS (2437). RESERVE YOUR SPAOE HOW Deadline Thursday IViay t 5th Serving the Oklahoma GLBT community since 2003. www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 9 by Liz Highteyman Past Out, which looks at the life 0fTallulah Bankhead, Actress Movies, TV;, Stage and Radio, Who was Tallu]lah Bankhead? ~ecades after her heyday in the 1920s and 1930s, self-described "ambisextrous" stage and screen star Tallulah Bankhead is as famous for her bad-girl antics as for her acting talent. Bankhead was born to a prominent political family in Huntsville, Ala., on January 31, probably in !903 (the year is subject to debate); her mother died shortly thereafter from childbirth complications. Seeking to keep his two unruly daughters out of trouble, her father, a U.S. Congressman, sent them to convent schools, but these proved conducive venues for Bankhead’s first sexual experiences with other girls. Though plump and plain as a child, Bankhead blossomed as an adolescent; at age 15, she won a movie magazine beauty contest with a prize of a small film role. Chaperoned by an aunt, she took up residence at the Mgonquin Hotel in New York City, a favored haunt of the Broadway elite. There, Bankhead was seduced by renowned actress Eva Le Gallienne and met Estelle Winwood, an older English actress who would become a life-long friend and sometime lover. Bankhead also counted among her liaisons British student Napier Alington and jazz great Billie Holiday, but she turned down a casting couch invitation from John Barrymore. Breakthrough acting success eluded Banld~ead in New York, and in 1923 she moved to London on the advice of an astrologer. There, she quickly achieved fame, especially among young working-class women. Over the next eight years she appeared in two dozen \VC-est End plays, which were wildly popular with fans, if not always acclaimed by critics. Documents declassified in 2000 revealed that the British intelligence service investigated her - groundlessly, it turned out - for allegedly seducing a group of Eton schoolboys. Bankhead earned considerable income, but spent profligately; by the end of the decade, she was broke and accepted a contract offer from Paramount Studios. In Hollywood, she hosted parties at her mansion that were said to have "no boundaries," and she attended shindigs at lesbian actress Alia Nazimova’s lavish Garden ofAllah estate. An emergency hysterectomy due to advanced gonorrhea did little to curb her omnivorous sexual appetite. "My daddy warned me about men and booze," she famously quipped, "but he never mentioned a word about women and cocaine." Bankhead had flings with Gary Cooper and - allegedly - with Marlene Dieterich, but Greta Garbo apparently spurned her advances. Upon meeting Joan Crawford, who was then married to Douglas Fairbanks Jr., she remarked, "I’ve had an affair with your husband. You’ll be next." Though Bankhead often bragged about her sexual conquests, many believed she exaggerated for the sake of publicity. Indeed, her comments suggested that she did not particularly enjoy sex. "The conventional position makes me claustrophobic," she once said, "and the others give me a stiff neck or lockjaw." Regarding Bankhead’s orientation, long-time companion Patsy Kelly - one of the first actresses to come out as a lesbian - said it "mostly it depended on Tallulah’s mood...When she’d get caught up with a man, she’d go quite hetero on us." Bankhead married once, to actor John Emery in 1937, but they divorced four years later with no children. She then bought an estate in West&ester County, where she lived for extended periods with Winwood and with Kelly. She also surrounded herself with numerous pets and her "caddies" - young men who mixed her drinks, lit her constant cigarettes, and sometimes provided sexual services. Follmving in her father’s footsteps, she became increasing involved in politics, campaigning for Democratic candidates and supporting both anti-Nazi and anti-Communist causes. Bankhead disliked movie acting, and her larger-than-life style ~vas better suited to the stage than the screen. After making several unsuccessful Hollywood films, she returned to acting on Broadway and with national touring companies, receiving critical acclaim for her performances in The Little Foxes (1939) and The Skin of Our Teeth (1942). Though bitterly disappointed at being passed over for the role ofScarlett O’Hara in Gone with the Wind, she still took on occasional movie projects, including her most famous role as a shipwrecked journalist in Alfred Hitchcock’s Lifeboat (1944). In the early 1950s, Bantdxead emceed The Big Show, a popular variety program on NBC Radio; when radio gave way to television, she appeared as a guest on shows such as The Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour. She also starred in a one-woman Las Vegas nightclub act and wrote a best-selling autobiography. But as Bankhead aged, her 10 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com years of hard drinking and drug use caught up with her, and she became a caricature of her former self. Many of her gay male fans failed to take her efforts seriously, laughing through her performance as Blanche Du- Bois in a 1956 revival ofA Streetcar Named Desire. Before her death from pneumonia in 1968, Bankhead’s final roles were intentionally absurd, induding turns as a demented mother in the British horror flick Fanatic (1965) - retitled Die! Die! My Darling! in the United States - and as the Black Widow on the Batman television series. When producer William Dozier explained his vision for the latter role, she reportedly replied, "Don’t talk to me about camp, dahling, I invented it!" For further reading: Bret, David. 1997. Tallulah Bankhead: A Scandalous Life (Robson Books). Lobenthal, Joe. 2004. Tallulah! The Life and Times of a Leading Lady (HarperCollins). McLellan, Diana. 2000. The Girls: Sappho Goes to Hollywood (Robson Books). OK Mozart Festvai Announces 24th Season, June 13=21 TULSA, OK (PR) __ Tourism is a growing industry in Oklahoma, and the OK Mozart International Festival continues to enhance dais growth by attracting visitors to Bartlesville each June for one of the state’s most renowned cultural events. From June 13-21, the Festival’s 24th season promises to delight audiences from across the state and country with an outstanding array of concert artists and world-class musicians and performances, ranging from classical concerts to Jazz and everything in between. The line-up of renowned guest artists includes Mark O’Connor, Barry Douglas, Anne-Marie McDermott, Frederica yon Stade, Branford Marsalis, Peter Nero, and Ben Vereen. Plus, the New York Theatre Ballet is performing Sleeping Beauty. Amici New York, the Festival’s beloved orchestra-in-residence, returns as it has each year since the Festival’s founding in 1985. These musicians are soloists in their own right and perform in many of the most prestigious ensembles throughout the year. Paul Neubauer, music director, returns with his All-Star Chamber Ensemble featuring members ofThe Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center. This year’s Festival will celebrate four great American composers: George Gershwin, Elliott Carter, Charles Wuorinen and Joan Tower, according to Neubauer. "We will also have Mozart,Tchalkovsky and Jimi Hendrix. Please join us for an exhilarating OK Mozart Festival." According to Scott Black, executive director, the 2008 festival offers some positive changes, including three series of entertainment options for the major concerts, money-saving ticket packages and many new and free Showcase events. These events, usually during non-concert hours, offer tours, historical talks, childreffs activities, luncheons and performances. "The 2008 Festival marks our 24th season of offering an internationally recognized event that puts Northeast Oklahoma on the map alongside larger cities that host similar summer festivals--San Francisco, New York, Chicago and Aspen," Black said. Most concerts take place in the Bartlesville Community Center concert hall, acdaimed for its near-perfect acoustics. Inside the Community Hall, the Moz-Art Gallery and OKM Gift Shop provide shopping pleasure for visitors. An exquisite on-site restaurant, Cafd Mozart, offers delicious three-course dinners and delightful lunches. The all-time favorite Woolaroc Outdoor Concert, taking place on June 20 at the Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve, features Amici New York with conductor’ Michael Krajewski. Nestled on the shores of a tranquil lake, this concert under the stars provides a relaxing, fun way to enjoy beautiful music. When darkness falls, a spectacular finale of fireworks lights the sky, signaling an end to the unforgettable evening. Season tickets and packages are available now with general sales beginning March 3rd. To order, call 918.336.9800, visit www. okmozart.com or in person at 500A South Dewey, Bartlesville. The Festival is made possible in part by the Oklahoma Arts Council and many corporate and individual patrons. The OK Mozart Festival is a member of Green Country Marketing Assn., one of 11 multi-county organizations working with the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, the Oklahoma Travel Industry Assn. and the other 10 multi-county associations to promote the state tourism industry. Creating Community for People iving with H ViA DS 50t c (3) Non Profit Orgauization Our House, Too offers a vadety of activities for people who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves. We invite anyone who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail harrismmjr@yahoo.com. www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 11 Gay arid Gray r g: Cor cerr s SAN FRANCISCO, CA__ More than 70% of lesbian and gay and respondents over age 40 reported concerns about losing the ability to care for themselves in a recent study conducted by Community Marketing, Inc. The majority also feared becoming sick or disabled, being dependent on others, and outliving their savings. When asked which resources they would rely on for long-term financial and social care as they age, less than 8% of respondents said they would place significant reliance on long-term care insurance, leaving us to wonder how prepared lesbians and gay men are for the kinds of health issues that often come with old age. Respondents placed the most emphasis on: Health care insurance: 22% Medicare: 20% Personal savings: 19% Social Security: 16% 65% of respondents expect for provide care to a partner sometime in the future, 44% for a parent, and 34% for a friend. However, respondents were less certain ofwho would care for them - 59% said a partner would be there to help care for them, 29% a friend, and 20% no one. Research Shows Growing Old a Concernfor Many Lesbians and Gay Mot A significant 20% of gay male and 38% of lesbian respondents over age 40 have children Oust 4% of gay men and 12% of lesbians reported the children to be under age 18). Sometimes it is easy forget how many gay-boomers had children before they came out, and some gays and lesbians will be able to rely on their children for care. The majority of respondents have completed a Living Will and the majority have a Power of Attorney, but less than 50% have completed an Estate Will or set up a Living Trust. (Hospitals often require a visiting partner to present a living~in order to enter his or her partner’s hospital room.) 49% of respondents said they are at least fairly confident that they would be treated with dignity and respect by medical personnel, but 19% expressed concerns that they have little confidence in this being the case. Some views of retirement and old age are much more positive. Respondents look forward to: traveling (79%), having more time for personal interests (74°/0), and peace and relaxation (60%). In addition, lesbians were more likely to report looking forward to spending more time with friends and family than gay men. DEMOGRAPHICS of this "over 40" study: The median age is 52. 69% of respondents are male, 30% female, and 1% transgen der. More than 96% of respondents identified as gay or lesbian. The remainder identified their sexual orientation as bisexual, queer or questioning. 53% of respondents reported that they are completely out. However, 15% are somewhat or not very out. The median respondent in all age categories reported plans to retire at age 62. The vast majority of respondents over age 62 have already retired. 73% of respondents have a college degree. 33% of female respondents and 46% of male respondents are single or do not live with a significant other. Lesbians are more likely to be partnered than gay men. The majority own single family homes. 12 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com By’ Rex Wockner Wockner News Service iranian fears e×ecution if sent home Mehdi Kazemi fears he’l! be executed if the United Kingdom forces him to return to Iran. Kazemi went to London to study in 2005 and Iranian officials later arrested his boyfriend, Parham, charged him with sodomy and executed him, according to Kazemi’s father. Kazemi then sought asylum in Britain but was rejected. In 2006, he then fled to the Netherlands, which detained him and is nmv preparing to return him to the UK. The UK had been planning to send Kazemi back to Iran ~vhen he returned to British soil but, on March 13, following extensive media coverage and political pressure, the Home Office agreed to review his case one more time before forcing him to go home. "The Iranian authorities have found out that I am a homosexual and they are looking for me," Kazemi said in a recent letter to UK Home Secretary Jacqui Smith. tn a statement given to activist groups, Kazemi elaborated: "Around [the] end of April 2006, my uncle called me again and informed me that my father had informed him that the authorities had executed Parham and that I must not return to Iran as the authorities would do the same to me.... Parham was charged with the crime of being homosexual and was executed." According to Kazemi’s father, Parham named Mehdi as his lover prior to his execution. Leading British gay activist Peter Tatchell commented: "The Home Office decision to deport Mehdi back to Iran is shameful and reckless.... Gay men in Iran are hanged from public cranes using the barbari method of slow strangulation." Tatchell said the UK government is "callous and more interested in cutting asylum numbers than in ensuring a fair, just and compassionate asylum system." Britain’s Gay and Lesbian Humanist Association also has taken up Kazemi’s cause, saying that "deporting gay and lesbian people to Iran is akin to deporting Jews back to Nazi Germany." Meanwhile, The Independent reported March 7 that an Iranian lesbian who fled to Britain after her girlfriend was arrested and sentenced to death by stoning also is at risk of being sent home. Pegaah Emambakhsh, 40, issued a statement March 6 saying: "I will never, never go back. If I do I know I will die." Emambakhsh’s asylum claim was rebuffed by the Court ofAppeal in February. She now plans to ask the High Court to review the case. Iran is known to have executed several teens and men accused of engaging in sodomy, although in nearly all the cases that have been publicized in recent years the individuals were accused of other crimes as well, such as rape. The International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission has said it suspects that other charges often are tacked onto sodomy cases to prevent the public outrage that would accompany executions carried out solely for the crime of consensual adult gay sex. The group also has said it believes executions solely for gay sex are taking place .out of the public eye. "Our suspicions [are] that their current practice really is to rid society of lesbians and gay men," the organization said last year. Human Rights Watch, on the other hand, has said it cannot fully document any executions in Iran in recent years carried out solely for the crime of consensual adult gay sex. Last September, during a speech at Columbia University in New York City, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was asked about the nation’s treatment of gay people. He responded: "We in Iran -- we in Iran, firstly, we don’t have hamjensbaz [a derogatory term for homosexuals meaning people with loose morals who chase people of the same gender for sexual pleasure] like you have in your country. In our country, there is no such a thing. In Iran, such a thing does not -- in Iran, in Iran, absolutely such a thing doe not exist as a phenomenon. I don’t know who told you otherwise." ILGA conference canceled The International Lesbian and Gay Association has canceled its 24th World Conference which was to take place in Quebec City, Canada, May 14 to 18. "A recent site visit] confirmed the impressions of the current lack of preparedness at this late date and the lack of funding necessary for the conference to take place," ILGA’s board co-chairs said in a statement. The primary lo.cal organizer was the Coalition gale et lesbienne du Qudbec. ILGA did not reschedule the conference but did put out "a formal call for new proposals from ILGA member organizations for hosting the world conference later this year." It gave interested parties less than a month to submit proposals. The board said any local organizer must take on partial responsibility for paying for the gathering. "ILGA does not have the capacity to fully fund the conference," the co-chairs said. "The local hosts have in the past fundraised for resources, especially to bring scholars from the Global South." ILGA is a 30-year-old federation of more than 600 GLBT organizations and associated members, such as city governments, from 90 countries. ............Continued PAGE 27 w~w.ozarksstar.com the STAR 13 Deep ~nside Hol!~,wooeL repora¢ on newprojeHrsjbr George Cloon~ and Simon Callow. Until he crossed over to the PG-13 Law and Order SVU, Chris Metoni was most notorious for gay sex scenes ~uad fullfrontal nudity OZ. And now Meloni is set,t,’o become even more family-friendl): He 1! star in Gym Teacher: Th~ Movie ~o{ Nickelodeon £s a down’on’his-luck coaCh wing Clooney Is Fantastic Mr. Fox 2?~hat’s the connection bevween the Coen Brothers’ ment - dark, violent No Country for Old Men and the upcoming animated family feature Xhe Fantastic Mr. Fox? Besides Coen collaborator George Ctooney in the starring voice role, that would be gay superproducer Scott Rudin, the man whose recent Oscar acceptance speech included a loving thank you to his ~artner (which was then s~rangely excised from the A~demyk o~cial transcript). Rudin tends to go where the hits are, ~d this ~es Anderson-directed, Ctooney and Care Blanchett-voiced feature, abou~ a quick-witted fox and three unpleasant f~rmers t~,in~ to do him in, looks like a sure!re holiday hit..~d in this instance, hohday means Christmas of 2009. But not to worD~ C!ooney has Burn ~ter Read in~ {the next one from the Coens) arriv ing during the interim. dinated thi., be a art teacher Mr. sircom, will a obsessive ~he movie Black about a with~ the film and this time with (slightly) ~,.u,.ll, a dark drama about a woman with a compulsive need to pull out her own hair one strand at k tirile (sounds like Todd Haynes’ Safei but Creepier), ~vill star not 0nly the legendary ~ren Black (Nashvillei but also musician Rickie Lee Jones. No word yet on when the movie will be, ready for an audience, but ifArcher~ firs~ f?ature is any indication, ir will be one ~at audiences wofft soon forget. American audiences remember him best as the joy~ttlly ~a.)[ heat attack victim who put the "funerN in Four XWeddings and a Funeral. BUt now gay" Brit character actor Simon Callow gets his own wedding, , even if it is something of an odd one. Hes starring in the recen@ wrapped Chemical We~lding, about a shy p;cofessor who manages to bring legendary occult figure Aleister Crowl~ back to life. And if that plot weren’t oddball enough, there’s the ~lm’s line e" it was co-written by Bruce fig. Dickinson, a name metal fans will know as the teader of the hugely successful rockers Iron Maiden. ~e sure-to-be-destined- for-cult-status film is due for release later this year. No ~v,ord yet on whether Or not Iron Maidens songs will hog the soundtrack spotlight. George Clooney www.ozarksstar.com A few years backl I had the opportunity to Piemonte is also known fol~ its Gorgonvisit friends in northern Italy. We spent our zola, Castelmagn0, (a local blue Cheese), time in the Piedmont region in a small town zabaione, vinegar, d~e and ri¢otto dishes; called Alba. Piedmont, in Italian, means at wild game, and braised meat dishes, such the foot of the mountain, as Bollito Mist0, a sf[ew of four to five different meats. ~uhe main grape grown there is the distinished Nebbiolo, which is the base for the Milan, the large city of Lombardia, is med Barolo, Barbaresco and Gattinara the namesake ~ ~ilanese; meaning tO (Barbera and Dolcetto) among others. Also dip food, usualt -iin pieces of meat, into popular is Barbera from Alba & Asti. Baro- beaten eggS, tl br~adcrumbs, and then los are dch, rose-scented wines, robust Saut~ it in butte .ombardiais also well and tannic, capable of (and often requiring) known for its ri( ~nd dsotto dishes, cream long aging. Ur~fortunat~ly they are often sauces~ post rn c~eese course, Use of prohibitively expensive. Barbaresco, made saffron~ pumpki aVi01i, (tortelli di zucca), to be drunk earlier than Barolos, can be asparag;Js~ ~au ge,freshwater fish and the more affordable choice, panett(~ne. Another Piedmont creation that achieved The Veneto is atso an important w ne worldwide fame is the Vermouth, which region, highlighted by So&re, Bardolino; was first created by Benedetto Carpano Pr~secco, (sparkling wine), Valpolioella in his wine shop n~ar the Tudn Stock and the flagship Ar~rone. Exchange. The classic American Martini cocktail takes its name from the most Veneto~ being on the ~aSt, naturally known Italian producer of dry vermouth, braces deligl~ts from the sea. All kinds of Martini & Rossi. seafood ar~ relished here. But the Veneto is quite diverse culinadly speaking. It is Piedmont was one of the first Italian also renowned for its v~getables~ grains regions to embrace the industrial revolu- and meat as welt. Risot{o, especially from tion and in 1899 the automotive giant Fiat Vialone Nano rice, and polenta are staples. (Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino) was Common Vegetables include winter ¯ established there, squash, radicchio, asparagus, beans, and other legumes. I thought rd shed some light on the wines from this part of the wodd. You can always Friuli, the north-eastern most region of dig deeper by checking out my reference Italy is hallmarked by Austrian; Hungarian, links. Slovenian and Croatian influences. These include but are not limited to Viennese. Reds Moccagatta Barbaresco 1999, 2000 Produttori Del Barbaresco 1999, 2000 Poderi Colla Pinot Noir 2006 Farnese Montepulciano 2006 Whites Bongiovanni Arneis 2006 Masi/Masianco Pino Grigio/Verduzzo 2006 Marchetti Verdicchio 2006 And as always, I say go to your favorite wine shop, ask questions and purchase a bottle or two. Share some food & wine with friends and check this out for yourself. Mr. D also hosts wine & food events known in town as the Wine Enthusiasts of Tulsa. References include: WineSpectator.com FoodandWine.com Wikipedia.org WineCountry.it Masi.it Farnese-vini.com allrecipes.com/Howto/Italian-Wine-Country- Piedmont ._~tww.ozark~star.co_~..................... Cozume| Join our gay and lesbian group aboard Carnival Conquest~ as we set sail from Galveston and call on the beautiful ports in Montego Bay, Grand Cayman and Cozumel. There is no better way to celebrate Halloween than aboard a funship with Gayribbean Cruises. We offer: Our fantastic Halloween Costume Party, Nightly Mixers and SO MUCH MORE ! Book eedy and save. Ask how to receive $75 shipboard credit! call for complete details. Ratea aad =valhbiRty axe ~ubjec¢ to change without noti€e. "Ihis is not an alLgay cruise. Ship ~try: Panama For information & Reservations www.GayribbeanCruises.com NCarnrval. by Donald Pile and Ray Williams Actually a bus trip isn’t all that bad, especially when you are traveling with other fun people. Although ,ve have never taken a bus trip across the country (and dofft think that we ever would) we have a lot of friends who have and enjoyed it greatly. We have taken several "day bus trips" from San Francisco, Las Vegas and on the east coast and all of them were quite interesting. From Las Vegas we took the bus trip to Hoover Dam and to the smaller casino cities of Laughlin. These bus trips were extremely inexpensive in that they drop you offat a couple of casinos and assume that you will gamble a lot. Most of them even throw in flee lunch and dinner and drinks. Sometimes they even thro~v in an afternoon show. Most all of the people that go to Las Vegas are truly a different breed and aren’t interested in taking bus tours and we have found that the ones who do are more enjoyable and interesting to talk with. In San Francisco it is just so much easier taking a bus trip to either the Wine Country or down to Carmel and Monterey and Pebble Beach. They drop you off right in the center of town and pick you up at the same location a couple of hours later. You certainly don’t have any parking problems as when you drive there, and a bus trip to the Wine Country gives you a much better opportunity to taste all the different wines without having to worry about a DUI while drive back to San Francisco. On the east coast we have taken "day bus trips" in Boston, New York City, Washington, D. C. and Philadelphia. Being such historical cities this is a great way to really get to see everything. Parking in large cities is such a challenge and the buses seem to always have their own parking areas close to whatever attraction you are going. Even smaller cities like Savannah, Georgia offers extremely interesting bus tours around the city. But if you’re really up to it, then take a bus tour all across the country. They stop every evening at the designation lodging facility and you’re on your own until the next morning. You don’t have to dine or socialize with anybody other than your own choosing. Check out your local Sunday newspapers in the travel section and they usually have ads for these bus tours. Small towns that have casino gambling are always having specials. We have seen ads where you pay $50.00 up front for a 5 day bus tour which includes your traveling, hotels, food and drinks and shows! Plus, you get the $50.00 back in gaming money at the casino. You can’t stay at home that cheap! Some people enjoy taking bus trips down to Mexico which certainly saves the hassle of driving your own automobile across the border and you certainly are in a position to feel safer. Most bus companies are regulated rather stringently, and especially when driving to Mexico you need to feel safe. .....................Continued page 27 18 th÷$TAR www.ozarksstar.com INTERNATIONAL GAY & LESBIAN TRAVEL ASSOCIATION and FUNMAPS, COM By Donald Pile and Kay Williams IGLTA is the world’s leading travel trade association committed to gro,ving and enhancing its member’s gay and lesbian tourism business through education, promotion and networking. You can search, contact and utilize their members around the world for all your travel needs. Whether you are looking for a gay travel business in your local city/town or a tour around the world, their members understand your travel needs. By going to their website, www.iglta.com you can search through their entire database of gay and straight IGLTA members to find just what you are looking for. Founded in 1983 with 25 founding members, the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA) is today a 1000 plus member strong and growing organization of gay, lesbian and community friendly travel professionals. IGLTA members represent both retailers and suppliers as well as travel columnists like ourselves. They represent travel agencies, tour operators, resorts, hotels, motels, Bed and Breakfasts, airlines, cruise lines, car rental companies, local tourist offices, regional and national tourist boards and the travel media. John Tanze!l is the Executive Director and their international headquarters is located at 915 Middle River Drive, Suite #306, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304. Their toll-free telephone number is: 1-800-448-8550. In May 2008, IGLTA will take Sin City by storm! From April 30 until May 4, 2008, Las Vegas will host the Annual Convention of the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association. The host hotel is the Flamingo. That website is: http://www.iglta.orglconvention/ and that website is your one stop shop. Here is where you will find updates, registration information, hotel and air information as well as anything else you could possibly want to learn about this one of a kind event. Among the many workshops that will be taking place are: Vegas Adventures, How to Buy/Sell Unique Destinations, How to Access the Gay and Lesbian Market, Internet Marketing, L World - Why Lesbians may be your best customers, Gay Comfort Hotel Programs, Marketing Strategies for Staying Competitive in the Gay & Lesbian Tourism Market, Unique destinations for Gay & Lesbian Travel, Teaming Up with Gay and Lesbian Events, Guerilla Marketing and Hotel/Bed and Breakfast trends. Legendary author Armistead Maupin will be our keynote speaker for the event. There will also be a National Trade Show in conjunction with the Convention. Anxong the many National sponsors of the IGLTA are:Airlines, Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Center, MGM-MIRAGE, Canada Tourism Commission, Wyndam Hotels and Resorts, HARRAH’S, AIG Travel Insurance, Alamo Car Rentals, National Car Rentals, American Airlines, Continental Airlines, Delta Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Macy’s Department Stores, Ottawa Tourism Center, Marriott Hotels and Resorts and this is only a portion of the national sponsors. If you go to their website you can check out their list of activities and the calendar of events. They list over a dozen every month all around the ~vorld. OutWest Global Adventures is one of our favorites. Check out their website at www.outwestadventures. com. or email them at: info@outwestadventures. corn and their phone number is 800-743-0458. They schedules all over the world. FUNMAPS.com is the leading authority for gays and lesbians visiting anywhere in the United States and Canada. They have yearly "funmap brochures" on all of the major cites in the country. They have been publishing their brochures for over 25 years. Alan Beck is the publisher and lives in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. We were fortunate to be his guests at his lovely estate there. His life-partner Nick is a wonderful person and they had a house guest, Norma from the Northeast who was a delight. Alan is one of the most charming gentlemen that we have ever met. The brochures feature accommodations, restaurants/cafes, night life and shopping. Their funmaps brochures also feature a "places to see" page and great maps of each city so that you can find your way around easily. They have brochures on the following cities: Asbury Park, Atlanta, Atlantic City, Austin, Baltimore, Banff/Jasper, Boston, Brooklyn, Calgary, Chicago, Columbus, Dallas, Denver, Edmonton, Fire Island, Ft. Lauderdale, Halifax, Houston, Jacksonville, Key West, Lake Tahoe, Las Vegas, Long Island, Los Angeles, Manhattan, Miami and Miami Beach, Minneapolis, Montreal, Myrtle Beach, Napa Valley, New Hope, New Orleans, New York City, Niagara, Okanagan Valley, Orange County, Orlando, Palm Springs, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Portland, Providence, Provincetown, Quebec City, Rehoboth Beach, Sacramento, San Antonio, San Diego, San Francisco, Saskatoon, Seattle, Sonoma County/Russian River, South Dakota, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria, Washington D.C., Whistler and Wilton Manors. Hopefully in the near future they will come out with a funmap brochure for Missouri featuring Kansas City, St. Louis, Columbia, Springfield and Joplin. Funmap brochures can be picked up free at hundreds of bars around the country and you can also check them out on line at www.funmaps.com. Their maps are the most circulated gay publication in the world, with 3.5 million users every year. www.ozarksstar.corn ~heSTAR t9 Matsuya serves excellent sushi and Japanese fare, including such knock-’out starters as deep-fried chicl~en wings and whitefish with smelt roe. Although many imitators have opened nearby, Mia Francesca remains the best place in the neighborhood for sophisticated but simple Northern Italian fare. You could survive solely- on the flaky, freshly baked cinnanmn rolls that accompany every" meat at the hallowed Swedish diner Ann Sather, which has several gay-popular locations. Chicago Diner, and serves that A swank, smoke-free lounge known for its colorful cocktails and slick crowd, Minibar opened somewhat recently and has become a favorite affer~work spot. A circuit-boy favorite on weekends, Circuit pulses with a feverish tate-ni~t dance crowd even at midweek, when Latin nights are a hit. °l~ne stylish Berlin disco draws a decidedly fiankier and more alternative crowd than most of the preppy haunts in Lakeview. Nearby Spin is an eclectic gay club with an alla~ es crowd and fun dance music. Charlie’s brinas in fans ofcountry- ~ffestern music, while the Gentry on Halsted is ~ Boystown branch ofdowntowffsppoular piano bar, favored for happy hour and later for live cabaret. Leather-and-Levi’s types cruise the Cell Block. Steamworks Chicago is a popular, clean, well-run sauna - it’s one of the nicest such facilities in the country. cheese, and a ranow-smoky sauce. One of the most talked-ab0ut new eateries in the area, Anteprima turns out superb modern Italian fare and has a wan’. dining room with pressed-tin ceilings and a s~.~ded patio in back. Don’t pass up the grilled quail marinated in honey with balsan~ic vinegar and pancetta. A lively and atmospheric bistro with a decidedly queer following, Tomboy serves tempting fare like pan-seared duck with crimini mushrooms mid a port glaze, T’S is a friendly, gay-popular restaurant and bar - it s a favorite lesbian date spot, known for healthful American food. ~hste of Heaven Baker), is a great pick for delectable breakfasts and lunches, plus iCresh-baked snacks throughout the day - the flied-egg sandwiches and peaches-and-cream French toast are favorites in the morning. Ano~er wonderful spot to satisfy your sugar fix is Sweet Occasions, which serves some of the thickest and richest ice cream in the city, plus fantast,c cupcakes, cherry cobbler, and homemade fudge. It’s hard not to love this old-fashioned parlor with ice-cream sundaes named for the seven deadly sins. The "Lust" (a chipotle brownie topped with cinnamon ice cream, hot fudge, whipped cream, and red hots) may leave you lusting t~br another trip to these two charming Chicago neighborhoods..... www.ozarksstar.com {5eSTAR 21 our entire lives! "17hey were crispy, tender and extremely delicious. We naturally had to get their recipe to share with our readers. After lunch we had some of their home-made apple pie which was great, but not as great as the onion rings. If you’re ever in that part of the country, be sure and stop by and dine there. They have no phone, no address with just a small sign in front but you can’t miss it as it is the only restaurant in town. We asked our waitress who owned the restaurant and she said, "Bob & Jim’. She had ,vorked there for over 3 years and had never met them. Rather strange, but as long as they make extraordinary onion rings, we don’t care. BOB &IIM’S CAFE Greydiff, Montana So, when you’r traveling, you never know what you might find. Sometimes it turns out good and sometimes it turns out bad, but just keep on "truckin". We love to dine at fine restaurants around the country but sometimes we hit upon a little diner that looks as though it is just the "perfect" place to stop. Last fall on our driving trip back from Seattle, Washington we were driving thru Montana around noonish and we were both getting hungry so we decided to pull into the next to~vn and get something to eat. Lo and behold the next town in Montana was Greycliff, a town of about 450 people (if you count the two of us). Really not much there except it is right on the Interstate. When we walked into the only restaurant in town, they KNEW that we were not from their fair town, or even that we were from Montana! All eyes were upon us. The last time that anyone in the restaurant had ever seen that many diamond rings was when they went to their local Walmart! We were the only ones there that didn’t wear cowboy hats, blue jeans, cowboy boots or bib overalls. We really thought about turning right around and walking back to our auto, but decided to stay. Our waitress was rather like Flo from the TV series, ALICE with a rather shrieking voice but pleasant. We had been dining for the past two weeks on west coast seafood so decided to try something a little more middle American so we ordered a chicken flied steak lunch. Our waitress, whose real name was Minnie May suggested that we also order the onion rings which she said were the best in the entire State of Montana. We almost didn’t order them but she kept insisting so ~ve did. To our pleasant surprise, they were some of the finest onion rings that we have ever had in Let us promote your business in a UNIQUE & DIVERSE market. Call STAR ADVERTISING today. 22 th~STAR www.ozarksstar.com XANDER, CAPTURES MR GAY US ofA MI 2008 TITLE AT ANGLES By Victor Gorin Winners Xander & 1 st runnerup Owen McCord OKLAHOMA CITY, OK __ A new facet of pageantry was introduced to Oklahoma when the first contest for male impersonation was held in Oklahoma City March 12-15. q-he national competition for this new division of the US ofA system, Mr Gay US ofA, concluded at Angles with the crowning ofXander ofTennessee with 1st alternate Owen McCord ofAtlanta, Georgia. This new contest is owned by the first Mr. Gay US ofA MI, the famous Gage Gatlin and his partner Brenda Quayle. Mr.Gatlin wowed the audience with a style that even made some gay men swoon, talent garnered from years of experience beginning in Jacksonville, Florida. Gage and Brenda have made their home in Tulsa, having begun this contest in August of this year. Mr.Gatlin has gone into retirement, however he will still perform for large charity events. They are looking forward to next year’s contest, which will feature contestants winning preliminary or regional contests, of which there are already 10 planned. OkJahomans for Equa] - ity opens new exhibit featuring artist Amie Montedoro at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center TULSA, OK (PR) __ The Dennis R. Neill Equality Center art gallery will host its monthly First Thursday meet-theartist reception from 6-9pm, Thursday, April 3, 2008, for the opening of it’s April exhibit, paintings by Amie Montedoro. Montedoro’s art is a refreshing look at the beauty ofwomen who have taken charge of their own sexuality. The feminine form, as the perfect balance between the sacred and the profane, embodies the duplicity that is woman; as Madonna, as Whore. The eldest daughter of accomplished architect and educator Richard Montedoro (Norman, Ok.), Amie has been taught from a young age the importance of self expression. A tactile artist, Amie prefers to create her art not with brushes or tools; rather she uses her fingers to apply all but the most intricate of details and finishing touches. From concept to creation, Amie uses traditional techniques along with the relationship garnered from having her hands actually create the form and emotion of women who are sexually comfortable, capable, and liberated. The exhibit will remain up through the month ofApril, and can be viewed Monday thru Saturday from 3-gpm. The Dennis R. Neill Equality Center is located at 621 E. 4th St., in downtown Ttflsa. More info can be found on the web at okeq.org. This monthly event is hosted by Oklahoman’s for Equality (OkEq). OkEq seeks equal rights for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender (LGBT) individuals and families through advocacy, education, programs, alliances, and the operation of the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center. Kern Responds to Activist Criticisms OKI~A_HOMA CITY, OK (PR) __State Rep. Sally Kern (R-Oklahoma City) issued the following statement in response to the criticisms of homosexual activists who have objected to a recent speech she gave on their efforts to promote their agenda at both the federal and state level. "To put this simply, as a Christian I believe homosexuality is not moral. Obviously, you have the right as an American to choose that lifestyle, but I also have the right to express my views and my fellow Oklahomans have the right to debate these issues. "In recent years homosexual activists have begun to aggressively promote their agenda through the political process, often providing substantial financing to candidates who agree with their views, including many running for state legislative races. National publications such as Time, The Atlantic and USA Today have noted that trend. That is their right, just as it is my right to voice opposition to their agenda, which I have been asked to do at several public forums in recent months. That’s what democracy is all about. It appears some homosexual activists believe only one group is allowed a voice in this debate. I disagree. ’~k vigorous debate on an issue is not ’hate speech’ - it’s free speech. I have made clear my opposition to the agenda of homosexual activists, but I have never endorsed or supported any hateful action targeting individuals on the other side of this debate and never will. The fact that many gay rights activists claim anyone opposing their agenda is engaging in ’hate speech’ says more about them than me. "Most Oklahomans are socially conservative and believe marriage is a sacred institution, the union of one man and one woman, and that the traditional family is worth protecting and preserving. When I campaigned for office, I promised my constituents to stand up for those values, and I do not apologize for keeping my word." ~wvw.ozarksstar.com theSTAR 23 By Ronald Blake Bythe time you read this, the Academy Awards gadabouts will be looking forward to next year’s red carpet faux pas. You will likely have listened ad nauseam to the incessant prattling of that sham fashion critic Joan Rivers. You will probably be joining the droves of lemmings to rent the Oscar winning movies at the corner Blockbuster. I will now beseech your participation for my health version of the body’s Academy Awards. I promise to shut up when the music starts to play. The winner for best editing goes to the reticular activating system, or the RAS as it is known to the medical snobs, q-his system was responsible for filtering all the unnecessary dreck that made its way to your brain during the past year. It decided what was important for you to pay attention to. It concluded that 99% of the sensory input that approached your cerebral cortex was to be ignored. Without this RAS, you would likely have been bombarded with an overload of drab detail all around you. The kind of overload you would experience while on the drug LSD, which does temporarily disable the RAS. The winner for best supporting role goes to the diaphragm. This veteran provided enough action and drama for five hysterical queens. It was capable of providing sufficient pressure change in your thoracic cavity to send blood soaring happily back to the heart on many an occasion. It has so ardently allowed you to give that much needed extra push while grunting and groaning on the toilet. It was even so chivalrous to accompany you to the health club and save you from muscle tears during your heavy lifting exercises. The best makeup award is presented to the circulatory system for its presentation of the numerous bruises that you displayed to the world. These hematomas are more than just clotted blood masses and it is long overdue that the Academy finally recognizes these purveyors of black and blue marks. They maintained their iridescent beauty until the body naturally reabsorbed the escaped blood that clotted just beneath the skin’s surface. The best leading role goes to the lungs. This organ is usually secondary to the perennial favorites such as the heart, brain, or the stomach. This year the voters spoke and showed the world that nobody puts the lungs in a corner. This tour de force has provided the heart with all its oxygen which in turn has provided the properly conditioned blood for your brain’s processing of your impure thoughts and the stomach’s digesting of those roast beef sandwiches ladled with horsey sauce. The best director goes to the adrenaline. This litde behemoth was responsible for preparing all your body parts for that fight or flight reaction when you came face to face with that curmudgeonly pit bull in the park. Audience members cheered furiously when you chose the flight version and outpaced the Hound of the Baskervilles and then leapt that six foot brick wall to the safety of those hydrangea bushes on the other side. Only a capable director could cajole you out of your slothful ways to negotiate that feat. There were many nonainees for great body parts and their exciting roles. With all due respect to the aforementioned winners, the body does function as a whole and winning team. Keep learning about your anatomy and physiology. This knowledge is what will keep you healthy and prepare you for the recipient of the lifetime achievement award. This column is brought to you by that guy who frequendy and sophomorically ordered Whopper sandwiches while in the McDonald’s drive-throughs in his carefree youth. That guy is Ron Blake and he can be castigated at www.goblakefimess.com. 26 theSTAR www.ozarksstar.com GAY TRAVELERS: Almost al! the bus tours allow their passengers to take their own food with them and ifyou are careful and not out in the open about it, you can take your own liquor for a 5 o’clock drink or two. We know several people who have taken a bus tour from California to Alaska and they all say that it was splendid. Buses nowadays are not like yesterday. They are all extremely comfortable with air-cushioned suspension. They of course all have restrooms on board and they make frequent stops for dining and shopping. On the longer tours they usually have a host/hostess traveling with you to answer any and all questions. Sometimes in one’s life it just makes more sense to take a bus tour rather than driving your own automobile. If this is something that might be in your future plans we highly suggest that perhaps you might start offwith just a day trip and see how you like it and then progress to a longer one. There are a lot of single people taking these bus tours so for the single people out there, you don’t need to feel alone when traveling. We have made good acquaintances on our day tours that we took several years ago and still keep in touch with them. Bus tours are not for everybody but perhaps it might be something to look into for your future travel plans. And speaking of Las Vegas, "Gay Days & Nights Las Vegas" is coming up July 3rd thru the 6th. This wil! be their 2nd year of presenting the Gay Days & Nights. Presenting sponsor Cirque du Soleil will be featuring special events and discounts throughout the Gay Days & Nights July 3-6, to showcase their Las Vegas productions. Attendees of Gay Days & Nights Las Vegas will have an opportunity to see any or all of the shows combined with invitationonly special events, drawings and incentives planned for each night including LOVE at Mirage, KA at MGM Grand, ZUMANITY at New-York Hote! & Casino and Mystere at Treasure Island. PARIS Hotel & Casino is the host accommodations and you can check them out at Parislasvegas.com. For more information check their website at http://www.gaydaysandnights.com/. Also when going to Las Vegas be sure and check out http://www.lasvegaspride.org/. Always remember to have fun when traveling, meet new people and talk to everyone! British gays f~ght b{ood ban A new British group called Bloodban is seeking to overturn the nation’s ban on blood donation by non-celibate gay men, the BBC reported March 7. Organizers are circulating a petition that they plan to deliver to Prime Minister Gordon Brown. The National Blood Service believes gay men are too high-risk because of the short gap between one’s getting infected with HIV and when the virus can be detected by a blood test. Bloodban says people should be excluded based on their lifestyle, not because of their membership in a particular social group. ~e activists propose that gay men be banned as donors only if they have had unprotected sex in the past 18 months. israeli bashers sent to prison Four Jerusalem gay-bashers were sent to prison for two to eight years March 6 by the Tel Aviv District Court, Ynetnews reported. Typically, the bashers used a decoy cruiser to pick up men seeking sex with men at Tel Aviv’s old central bus station. Once in the victim’s car, the decoy would direct him to another location where the other bashers joined in beating, stripping and robbing the victim. Two other men have been indicted for nearly identical crimes at Jerusalem’s central bus station. In one case, one of the bashers bit off a portion of one victim’s ear, Ynet said. Netherlands plans legalization of park sex It will no longer be illegal to have sex in Amsterdam’s Vondel Park under regulations set to take effect later this year, De Telegraaf reported March 7. "Why should we try to maintain something that is actually impossible to maintain, which also causes little bother for others and, for a certain group, actually signifies much pleasure?" asked Oud-Zuid district Alderman Paul van Grieken. People having sex in the park xvill be expected to do so only after dark and out of public viexv. They also must not leave condoms lying about. Meanxvhile, the police institute’s National Diversity Expertise Center is advising other cities to follow Amsterdam’s lead. It said legalizing park sex would help protect gay men from queer-bashers. The Amsterdam branch of the Dutch national gay group COC (now knoxvn only by its formal initials) xvelcomed the nexvs. "Cruising is something belonging to all times and banning it does not work anyway," said chairman Dennis Boutkan. "They do it surreptitiously and mostly without others being annoyed by it. By agreeing on rules of behavior, safety can be increased." Spanish gay-marriage PIVt wins reelection Spanish voters re-elected Prime Minister Josd Luis Rodrlguez Zapatero on March 9, apparently unperturbed that he made Spain one of only six nations that grant gay couples access to full marriage. Zapatero’s Socialist party took 43.7 percent of the vote, besting the conservative Popular Party, which grabbed 40.1 percent. Belgium, Canada, the Netherlands, South Africa and the U.S. state of Massachusetts also have opened up ordinary marriage to same-sex couples. SGYrdneff. GLBT Mardi as Picks Gayest Song Ever. S~qDNEY, AU __ ABBA’s Dancing Queen, which has been ranked by visitors to Australia’s SameSame.com.au website as the gayest song of all time in a list compiled to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. The Village People’s YMCA came in second, followed by Gloria Gaynor’s I Will Survive. "The list was compi]ed in the lead-up to the 30th Anniversary of Sydney’s Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras to look back on the catalogue of popular music to decide which of them are truly worthy to be labelled a camp classic," SameSame.com.au said. ~,wvw.ozarksstar.com th÷STAR 27 by Jack Fertig April 2008 "Recharge your batteries, Taurus!" Venus entering Aries provides a challenging spark to the profound re-evaluations of responsibility being raised by Pluto and Saturn. Be patient, take the long view, and rise to the challenge of seeing how your impulses can be harnessed to deep and necessary changes. ARIES (March 20 -April 19): Venus is in your sign, and it’s a great time for a makeover. Looking good professionally is more important than just looking gorgeous, so freshen up your work as well as your appearance. Looking good in lieu of accomplishment will fool no one. TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): Allow yourself time to be alone. Recharge your batteries; take time to think about important issues, to organize hobbies or crafts, or to look more critically at some of your creative efforts. When you need fresh air, do some volunteer work. GEMINi (May 21 - June.20): Throwing yourself into some community efforts will bdng you to unanticipated challenges. You can overcome them, but will have to re-evaluate how you network with others, and how you support and use community structures. CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Making useful connections may feel cynical. The truth is, you tend to be a little too romantic and shouldn’t be shy about basing relationships on something practical. Focus your urge to edit on yourself; others rarely appreciate it. LEO (July 23 .- August 22): You’re suddenly impatient to make your mark in a new territory. Stop and think. Rather than wasting this energy in some egoistic indulgence, you can apply your skills to present your most valued ideas and talents. VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Be bold and daring. Traits you’ve experienced as liabilities can prove very advantageous if you try playing with them - perhaps in dark, subversive ways. Erotic role play can unlock power where you thought you were weak. LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): Nice people can argue nicely. Assert your points respectfully and hear your partner - or your opponent - out. Be open to new perspectives on cherished traditions. Some long-accepted history als0 needs a fresh look. SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): You’re itching to make some much-needed innovations at work. As good as. your ideas are, be sure to discuss any plans with colleagues, and not just for diplomacy’s sake. You can learn from their ideas and improve upon your own improvements. 28 theSTAR SAG~TTAR~US (November 22 o December 20): You could accomplish a great deal, earning fame and fortune. The creative impulse that should feed such progress is more likely to be a distraction. Harnessing that power productively is challenging. Don’t give in to impulse. Structure and discipline are now your best bet. CAPRICORN (December 21 -January 19): Suddenly focusing on what you value about your home and tribe, you can become very assertive and defensive. Try to take a longer view, asserting the value of your clan as part of a larger community or humanity, not distinct from it. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): To become even more comfortable with your deepest, most private feelings about sex and/or death, you need to challenge yourself to examine these most irrational mysteries with some logic. Find someone with whom you can discuss your secret feelings. PISCES (February 19 - March 19): The fault is probably not with your partner and friends, but in what you imagine - wrongly - to be their chief assets. Try to see what they offer and what you offer to them in a new light, one that will improve all your relationships. METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES Rev Steve 3". Urie Spirit of Christ MCC 2902 E 20th Street Joplin, MO 64804 417-529-8480 Worship Saturdays at 10:00 AM Community Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM MCC of the Living Spring 17 Elk Street Eureka Spdngs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays at 6:00 PM Have a God filled and BleSSed Day! www.ozarksstar.com tis÷ s Support those who support us, DOWNTOWN PLAZA ofTULSA 17 \Vest 7th Street Tulsa, OK 918-585-5898 www.downtownplazatulsa.com HABANA INN 2200 bD,v4 39TH F~XPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-528-2221 www.habanainn.com KELLY KIRBY, CPA 4815 S. HARVARD, SUITE 424 Tulsa, OK * 918-747-5466 Certified Public Accountant SUSAN HARTMAN Independent Broker Oklahoma and Arkansas 918-698-2977 susanlhartman@gmail.com ANGLES 2117 NW 39th St. Oklahoma City, OK x~vw.anglesclub.com BkaMBOO LOUNGE 7204 E. PINE Tulsa, OK 918-836-8700 www.bambooloungetulsa.com CLUB MAJESTIC 124 N. BOSTON Tulsa, OK 918-584-9494 www.clubmajestictulsa.com FINISHLINE 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE COPA 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESS\VgAy Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 v~vw.habanainn.com THE LEDO 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com DIVERSITY CHRISTIAN CNTR 211 S. Garnett Tulsa, OK 74128 v~vw.realacceptance.com OUR HOUSE, TOO 203 N. Nogales Ave Tulsa, OK 74127 918-585-9552 HOPE TESTING CLINIC 3540 E. 31st Tulsa, OK 800-535-2437 Oklahoma’s HIV/STD Hotline SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC 2902 E. 20TH STREET, Joplin, MO * 479-529-8480 Service Saturday 9:30 AM MCC of the HVING SPRING 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays 6pm OPENARMS YOUTH PROJECT 2015 -B S. Lakewood Tulsa, OK 74112 918-838-7104 www. openarmsproject.org JUDY G. PHOTO’S Tulsa, OK judygphoms@sbcglobal.net 918-743-8636 CENTURY 21 GOLD CASTLE 3627 NW EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405-840-2106 www.c2 lgoldcastle.com CHUCK BRECKENRIDGE Keller Williams Realty Tulsa, OK 918-706-1887 GAY BRADY HEIGHTS-Tulsa New and Historic Homes for Sale and Rent For Info: www.gaybradyheightstulsa.com GUSHER’S RESTAURMNT 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 Located inside Habana Inn GAYRIBBEAN CRUISES www.gayribbeancruises.com 877-560-8318 Want the STAR delivered to your home or business? 12 issues for $33.95 will be mailed in a sealed envelope the 1st of each month. Complete the form below and send with a check or moneyorder to: ¯he STAR 5103 S. Sheridan Rd., #153 Tulsa, OK 74145 (Single Copies $3.00 per issue) NAlVlE: Address: St: Zip: Phone: Check enclosed Money Order Start Date: www.ozarksstar.com th÷STAR 29 Keller Williams Realty Whether buying or selling I’ll work hard for you. ,REALACCEPTANCE,COM mdaekfinitio,n..; the cos,t f,gr m,,ost of.u...s, to..... e a amerence in [Re llves oT (~Lt~l Teens in Oklahoma.) You can help our teens. Support Open Arms Youth Project. For more Info: www. openarmsproject.org 30 t5eSTAR www.ozarksstar.com drugs +, HIL.~ Learn ~t~he Link Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2008] The Star Magazine, April 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 4 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource April 01, 2008 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Image Online text PDF Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource magazine Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Southwestern Missouri Western Arkansas Southeastern Kansas Eastern Oklahoma The United States of America (50 states) Subject The topic of the resource Politics, education, and social conversation over LGBTQ+ topics Description An account of the resource The Star Magazine’s first issue began February of 2005. Before this issue was Ozarks Pride (2004) and The Ozark Star (2004). Follows is The Metro Star (2008). This magazine discusses topics of AIDs, education, politics, local and national civil rights of the LGBT community, and advice for relationships and places to visit. This collection is PDF searchable. Physical copies are also available to be seen at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center with permission. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Star Media, Ltd Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Star Media, Ltd Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Charles (Chaz) Ward Victor Gorin Greg Steele James Nimmo Joey D. Victor Gorin Romeo San Vicente Andrew Collins Donald Pile Ronald Blake Ray Williams Jack Fertig Li Highleyman Devre Jackson Judy G. Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://history.okeq.org/collections/show/19 Relation A related resource The Star Magazine, March 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 3 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/249 The Star Magazine, May 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 5 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/250 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context https://history.okeq.org/items/show/244 After Dark Amie Montedoro Bailamos Bars Deep Inside Hollywood demographics fitness health HIV/AIDs testing HOPE HOPE 10 year anniversary horoscopes Iran-execution LGBT history Mardi Gras mixology Mozart Festival Night clubs Our House paparazzi Past Out Q Scopes Sally Kern Star Advertisers Star classifieds Star Scene Too travel https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/aab490c2335f60d2d1e55a19c2e4595e.jpg 2780adbe6231a9bb9684aba76e8a4a9e https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/c64f38e4af7372c2f5ec5dff5ea8afc9.pdf 0c00542c1bd30dfacdc734d945b231d6 PDF Text Text �Let us promote your business in a UNIQUE & D~VERSE market. Cal~ STAR ADVERTiSiNG today. (918}835o7887 2 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �OKLAHOMA PR£SIDENTIAL PRIMARY FEBRUARY 5 MAKE YOUR VOTE COUNT By Victor Gorin Photo: ~ctor Gorin registering Thomas Bishop to vote in OKC If you are registered as a Republican or Democrat in Oklahoma, soon it will be time to cast your vote to select your party favorite for our next president. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. and your polling place is on your voter card. You may vote early from 8 a.m. unti! 6 p.m. Friday February 1 and Monday February 4, and from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Saturday February 2. Call your local election board for your early voting site. If you have lost your voter card, you may still vote if you are registered, and this you can find out by calling your local election board, who can also provide your polling place. In Oklahoma County that number is 713-1515, Tulsa County 596 5787. Although they appear on the Democratic ballot, 2 candidates have dropped from the race, Bill Richardson and Christopher Dodd. On the Republican ballot, Tom Tancredo appears on the ballot even though he has dropped from the race. Independent voters cannot vote for a presidential candidate in this Oklahoma election. However, you may have school board races that you can vote for, so be sure to check that out. Vote February 5 and make our voice heard. www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 3 �SAINT VA~N~’~ The origin and history of Saint Valentine’s A Night in the Palace of Versailles, Barony of all Oklahoma crowns 1st Czar & Czarina. Dennis R. Neill Equality Center presents art by Jessica Newman. ~ DEEP ~S~D~: HOLL~OOD NEW: Deep Inside Hollywood, reports on new projects for Paul Rudd and Nathan Lane. Through his dedication and courage, black gay anti-apartheid activist Simon Tseko Nkoli played a key role in the fight for GLBT liberation and human rights for people with HIV/AIDS. Devre Jackson reviews Cabernet Sauvignon. ~ ~ C~AO TRAVEL Gay Travelers: Oklahoma City Out of Town: Savannah, GA Dining In or OUT Introspection can lead you to better understand yourself and ultimately to achieve greater happiness. ON THE COVER: Czar I Philtip Parker & Czarina I Kris Cherri Kohl 4 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �JoNin Gay & Lesbian Center To Ho d VNentines Fundraiser Valentine’s Day started in the time of the Roman Empire. In ancient Rome, February 14th was a holiday to honour Juno. Juno was the Queen of the Roman Gods and Goddesses. The Romans also knew her as the Goddess of women and marriage. The following day, February 15th, began the Feast of Lupercalia.The lives of young boys and girls were strictly separate. However, one of the customs of the young people was name drawing. On the eve of the festival of Lupercalia the names of Roman girls were written on slips of paper and placed into jars. Each young man would draw a girl’s name from the jar and would then be partners for the duration of the festival with the girl whom he chose. Sometimes the pairing of the children lasted an entire year, and often, they would fall in love and would later marry. Under the rule of Emperor Claudius II Rome was involved in many bloody and unpopular campaigns. Claudius the Cruel’was having a difficult time getting soldiers to join his military leagues. He believed that the reason was that Roman men did not want to leave their loves or families. As a result, Claudius cancelled all marriages and engagements in Rome. The good Saint Valentine (photo above) was a priest at Rome in the days of Claudius I1. He and Saint Marius aided the Christian martyrs and secretly married couples, and for this kind deed Saint Valentine was apprehended and dragged before the Prefect of Rome, who condemned him to be beaten to death with clubs and to have his head cut off. He suffered martyrdom on the 14th day of February, around the year 270. At that time it was the custom in Rome, a very ancient custom indeed, to celebrate in the month of February the Lupercalia, feasts in honour of a heathen god. On these occasions, amidst a variety of pagan ceremonies, the names of young women were placed in a box, from which they were drawn by the men as chance directed.The pastors of the early Christian Church in Rome endeavoured to do away with the pagan element in these feasts by substituting the names of saints for those of maidens. And as the Lupercalia began about the middle of February, the pastors appear to have chosen Saint Valentine’s Day for the celebration of this new feast. So it seems that the custom of young men choosing maidens for valentines, or saints as patrons for the com~ year, arose in this way. www.ozarksstar.com ... JOPLIN, MO (P/R) __ In support of equal civil marriage for gays and lesbians and "Freedom To Marry Week", the Joplin Gay and Lesbian Center invites the GLBT community to a Valentines reception and dance February 14th, 2008 7:00 pm to 1:30 am. The event will be held at Groove Lounge, 2331 East 7th Street in Joplin. Dance to the music of the house DJ, enjoy a Wedding Cake and cash bar. A $5.00 donation per person at the door will go to support the Joplin Gay and Lesbian Center. For more information contact Director Lee McDaniel 417-622-7821 or email gaylesbiancenter@gmail.com Website www.mYspace.com/gaylesbiancenter Recognized by Keller Williams ,- For outstanding achievement 2005 and 2006 Chuck Breckenridge 918-706-1887 REALIOr~ V/hether buying or selling I’ll work hardforyou. ~, the STAR 5 �Acceptance o£GAYS and LESBIANS In addition to loosing weight is he getting a homo-friendly face-lift? OKLAHO/vlA CITY, OK __ Oklahoma City Mayor Cornett proclaims an official day for Ellen DeGeneres’s birthday and this is coming from a man who previously never meet a gay man or woman he liked. Well, I have a bridge in Brooklyn, too. \Vhen it’s Cornett’s political agenda being advanced then he’s comfortable ~vith appearing on the famous lesbian Ellen DeGeneres’s TV show as he did on January !7th. Could his self-serving appearance also have anything to do with the National Conference of Mayors having their 2010 annual meeting in OKC? Is he trying to get a homo-friendly face-lift as well as lose weight in order to make himself more attractive for re-election? Did his failed attempt at running for Congress show him the error of his ways or just point him to another snake-oil strategy? Now, in order to show that Mayor Cornett is exercising all his Christian sincerity of turning the other cheek, will he propose a human rights commission with legal force that can be approved by the City Council so that cases of gay/lesbian harassment and discrimination can be handled with respect and the intention of making life better for all of OKC’s taxpaying citizens? I’m not a Christian and I’ve turned both of my cheeks, upper and lower, for the last time to self-serving politicians who use gay people for their own ends and then dispose of them like a fast food clam shell. Just How Vulgar W- ll a Desperate Candidate Get? OKLAHOMA CITY, OK __ Not wanting to get too explicit about basic human sexual techniques, I can’t help notice that so much of human disagreement at a low level of public conversation comes down to either analogous or physical illustrations of body penetration in a sexual context. We’ve seen with Mike Huckabee, a man who wants to lead one of the most powerful countries in the world, that he’s willing to stoop to a tow level of vernacular public language in order to attract the flat-earth variety of voter who believes in a geo-centric 6,000 year-old earth. His remarks about putting a flag pole where the sun doesn’t shine regarding the South Carolina Confederate flag controversy is one example. The instance of Huckabee’s rallying mantras is a perfect example that he, suffused with the self-reflecting love of his self-constructed Jay-sus, is not immune, rather he uses it ki~owingly to inflame his redneck followers to greater heights of cooperation in their own submission to the destructive force of religion. Yes, human power can operate at the lowest level of human respect for those ,vho disagree with us and the fastest way to connect with many people is to graphically use the example of rape towards the perceived enemy. A frustrated Vice-president Dick Cheney used the same tactic in referring to Senator Patrick Leahy with a vulgar act of self-stimulation in the Senate chamber. Just as violent rape of women by men is described as an attempt at power, with nothing to do with lust, so is the use of sexual penetration by antagonists used to inculcate their ideas of power and superiority at the basest level of human society. A thinking voter should reject such a candidate immediately. 6 the STAR ~wv.ozarksstar.com �Ask About Our Suites WV~N.ozarksstar.com the STAR 7 �ince 1982 Ms. Kris Kohl in the "Painted Ladies" Show Friday, February’ 15th & 29th, @lOpm. Cover charge $5.00 single, $8.00 per Couple. Mention this ad and receive 1 FREE drink coupon per room. t 7 West 7th Street 8 the STAR & Boulder Ave) ® Tulsa, Ok 74119 e plazatulsa. om www.ozarksstar.com �byJoeyDe TULSA, OK __ Playing dress up may be child’s play, but for the Royal Green Country Barony of All of Oklahoma, it is a welcomed break to hours of hard work. A member of the International Imperial Court System, the RGCBAO is a philanthropic organization with a government system and titles inspired by Victorian alty. In an Adornment Ceremony at the Holiday Inn Select in Tulsa on Jan. 12, the RGCBAO crowned their first Czar and Czarina, Phillip Parker and Kris Cherri Kohl (respectively). A non-partisan organization, the Royal Green Country Barony of All Oklahoma seeks to further the mission of the International Court System by uniting not only the gay community, but the entire community of Oklahoma, gay and straight, regardless of ethnicity or other discriminating factors. ~he barony works to raise funds for charitable causes and work for equality within the realm it covers. Photo Above: Czar I Phillip Parker & Czarina I Kris Cherri Kohl Lynn Whitley. Additionally was the Crown Grand Marquis Roger Francis and Crown Grand Marquesa Dominique La Rue. Also acclaimed as a key founder was Christian Cherri O’Donely Vaughn LaFleur Dior. Entertainment for the evening was provided by entertainers from across Oklahoma and beyond, q-his included the cast of "Twisted Theatre," Tim Conroy, Catia Lee Love, Empress The Lovely Suzanne, Empress Syren Vaughn, Empress Victoria Weston, Matthew Heath Fitzgerald, Tabitha Taylor, Rebbeca Tucker and Leonard Jenkins. To begin the evening, Nicole the Great, Queen Mother of the Americas, welcomed Oklahoma into the international family and described what they had "gotten themselves into." "You see all this (pageantry) and wonder about it, remember it’s all in camp. We may call each other Barons and Baronesses, but we are all equals," began the matriarch, who explained the organization’s preStonewall San Francisco founding. She described the court system as one of the oldest and largest organizations in GLBT history. "When a gay man, Jose, declared that he wanted to be called an ’Empress’ after being crowned the queen of the Tavern Guild’s drag ball, he didn’t know what he started at the time." w~v.ozarksstar.com Through out the course of the evening, many other individuals who contributed to the founding of the RGCBAO were recognized, as well as those who have assumed leadership positions in the organization. This included the Privy Counsel (Board of Directors) comprised of Deb Starnes, Jim Ray, Scot Brown, Marc Acuff, and Through all the dresses and crowns, the evening assumed a sense of decorum, but through the words of those on stage, it maintained a level of fun and frivolity that turned it into a true celebration. By the end of the evening, the Royal Green Country Barony of Oklahoma had demonstrated that they knew how to have a good time, but had made it clear they were ready to begin the hard work of providing leadership to and creating unity among the citizens of their relm. the STAR 9 �By Donald Pile and Pray Williams q-his is a "must read" for gay men all over the country. You will laugh at nearly every page! Robert knows exacdy what his readers want to hear and he writes in such a great way. He writes openly what many of us say behind our backs. One of our favorite parts of the book is when he talks about "prespeaking", as in, "Dinner. That is where we should go" and "Glad for you! That is what I am." Days after reading this, we are still catching ourselves "prespeaking". Hopefully we and our friends will get tired of it eventually but it is fun for a while. We don’t know if his family and friends are still speaking to him or not but they should be happy that he loves them so much that he can be so open and flank about them. He would indeed be a good friend of have. Hopefully we will get to meet him sometime in the near future. He left some extra copies of his book at the Grand Resort for guests to read and everyone can’t wait to get their hands on his book. We promise that you will laugh your head off:page after page after page. " Surrounded by Insanity" by Robert A. Hofmann We have just read a new book, "Surrounded by Insanity" by Robert A. Hofmann and it is one of those books that once you begin reading it, you won’t want to put it down until you have completely finished. It is absolutely hilarious! It is a biographical story of the author’s experiences thru his life with his early childhood and growing up with friends and family. Robert grew up in New Jersey and what a wild and crazy and wonderful life he has had. Between his family and his friends, he guides the reader thru many exciting episodes of his life. It is wickedly bitchy and hilarious! Everyone in Robert’s life so far is a participant in this wonderfully funny and provocative story of his life. It begins with his birth and goes thru two years ago when he was staying at the wonderful Grand Resort in Ft. Lauderdale when Hurricane Wilma hit in 2006 leaving everybody without power for several days. 10 the STAR "Surrounded by Insanity" is published by Publish America and may be purchased through all major bookstores (if they don’t have it in stock, they’ll order it for you) or from www.amazon.com or www.publishamerica.com. We didn’t ~vant the book to end but thankfully, Robert is already in the process of coming out with his second book. As Robert says, " I live in fabulous, flaming, freakin" New Jersey. Woo-hoo. I am an attorney by day, writer by evening, superhero in the bedroom." Just keep up the great writing Robert! CLUB MAJESTIC TULSA TO HOST MR. OKLAHOMA CONTINENTAL 2008 PAGEANT By Greg Steele TULSA, OK __ Hot bodies and great talent will be the main course at Club Majestic Friday February 15th at 9pro. The show will feature an all male contest with guest entertainment from across the country. The feature entertainer will be Rasean Montrese Mr. Continental Nationals 2007 and hosted by Danielle Hunter Miss Continental Elite Nationals 2007. In addition to the contestant line up an impressive array of talent will be on stage to make your Friday Night at Club Majestic an evening to remember. Mr. Oklahoma 2007 Sevion Simpson, Mr. 2006 Nationals Simba Hall, Miss Oklahoma Continental 2007 Adrianna and introducing Mr. 2005 Nationals Tony DeSario. Club Majestic is located at 124 N. Boston in the Brady Arts District. 2-he latest on Britney Spears is that she is in training to become a high profile lesbian, being coached by famous lesbian convert Ellen DeGeneres. DeGeneres told the website www.thespoof.com "Britney is making great progress. I have every confidence she will make an excellent lesbian in time" www.ozarksstar, com �essica Newman art e hibit at Dennis R. Neill Equality Center (TULSA, OK (P/R) __ "~e Dennis R. Neill Equality Center art gallery will host its monthly First Tnursday meet-the-artist reception from 6-9pm, "lhursday, February 7, 2008, for the opening of it’s February exhibit, featuring oil paintings and fine drawings by artist Jessica Newman. Newman, born in California in 1985, has been a resident of Tulsa since the age of 10. Jessica started drawing at a very young age, and really became involved in art during high school, when she took her first art class in the ninth grade. ~his is where she was introduced to a variety of art supplies, and began experimenting with different media. Since graduating high school in 2003, she has continued studying art in college, and plans on graduating as an art major. Jessica has always been fascinated by the human body, which is the theme of most of her work. She currently works with pencil, watercolors, and oil paints, but charcoal is her medium of choice. Her art has been shown at the Mayfest Youth Gallery, as well as at the Blue Dome Arts Festival. The exhibit will remain up through the month of February, and can be viewed Monday thru Saturday from 3-gpm. The Dennis R. Neill Equality Center is located at 621 E. 4th St., in downtown Tulsa. More info can be found on the web at okeq.org. This monthly event is hosted by Oklahoman’s for Equality (OkEq). OkEq seeks equal rights for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender (LGBT) individuals and families through advocacy, education, programs, alliances, and the operation of the Dennis R. Neill Equality Cente~ www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 11 �SIDE De~ Inside ;~otlywoo4 rqo~ on n~w projects for Paul Rudd and Nathan ~ane. Nathan Lane Casts Swing Vote Hds acting up a storm on Broa&vay right now with Laurie Met~f in the new D~vid Mamet play, November, but stage fixture Nathan Me will be back on the big screen this new year, too, with a role in the ensemble comedy Swing ~v~te. Starring Kevin Cosmer ~ a low-achieving, apolitic~l American citizen, tl~ movie concerns a presidentia! election that hinges entirely on Cosmer’s not-entirelywelMnformed vote and the n~tional ch~os that results from it. L~ne will co-star, along with Definis Hopper, Stanley Tucci, Kelsey Grammer, George Lopez, Mare Winningham, *~Vi!lie Nelson, and politiCal comment~)or A~ianna Hut~ngton ~s herse!£ Already wrapp~[, the film - if audiences vote for it v~ith their ticket dollars - could find itselfincieasing poll turnoutsSBut not likely, Paul Rudd You, Man ~rotagonists express- signal the beginning t of heterosexual male intimacy? movie, I love by Judd Apatow (v¢hose willingness to "go in films like The Obiect of " " well documented), the best he considers close enough to fill. as the poor spring, here’s t Larry: Like ransamerican Love ready for Transamerican Love a 36-year-old ~ with an Girl). Addams will ~ of men competing to date her formerly male body. Contrast About Miriam, on which told about Miriam’s transgender a bold step for the reality televicomic Alec Mapa wilt host the show by gay cable channel Logo. The in 2008. 12 the STAR www.ozarksstar, corn �DEEP INSXDE HOLLYWOOD Choosing America’s Prom Q een Lesbian Musician Julie Schurr to Perform in Eureka Springs, Fayetteville and New Orleans. For further evidence that pop culture is now dominated by entertainment designed for the High School Musical demographic, !ook no further than Americas Pro Queen. ABC Family has given the go-ahead for the new series that will pit a group of high school-aged young women against each other in the quest to be the fairest prom queen of them all. The contestants will reside in a mansion and compete in challenges that will show if they’ve got what it takes to wear a tiara in public and vcave at less popular people; then they’ll stay or go based on viewer votes. But Romeo has one complaint: in an era when young men are routinely making the news after being voted prom queen at their school, why no boys allowed? Romeo San Vicente - while in high school, mind you - wa~" very popular with his share ofpmm kings. He can be reached care of this publication or at DeepInsideHollywood@qsyndicate.com. Regional MCC CMr&es Perform An Act ©fKin&ess In Tulsa JOPLIN, MO G/R) __ MCC United in Tulsa, OK was visited by Diva’s xvith Chain Saws as members of MCC of the Living Springs, Eureka Sprh~gs, AR and Spirit of Christ MCC; Joplin, MO arrived Saturday morning the 12th of January ready to work. MCC United has been dealing with damage on their property since an early, December ice storm devastated the area. There were still damaged trees that needed to be reduced to manageable size and trees that were potentially dangerous if not removed. Together with members of MCC United and their Pastor, Rev Carolyn Mobley the three churches xvere able to make short work of the remaining damage control and clean-up. Spirit of Christ MCC literally closed their doors and moved their worship to a program Rev Steve ca~s: "Faith in Action." "We are an oddity in MCC Churches in that we xvorship on Saturday mornings. As it is, we are ~knoxvn to replace worsNp with taking on Acts of Random Kindness to show what we believe is primary for us. As Christ served all people in need.., so should xve." Rev. Urie also pastors MCC of the Living Spring in Eureka Springs, AR and when he shared the needs he immediately received e-mails saying xve are going with you." We were totally blessed inasmuch as we had four chain saxvs in action, limbs fal~ng and people picking up the grounds with no injuries and everyone home safely. The group was blessed with a xvonderful lunch provided by MCC United and a musical Thank You provided in song by Rev. Carolyn. Across Regional boundaries and State Lines xve can all work together serving God by serving each other. www.ozarksstar.com EUREKA SPRINGS, AR __ Growing up, Julie Schurr never heard music that might have made life a little bit easier for a lesbian girl being raised in the strictly-proscribed constraints of a religiously conservative community and home. In fact, she wasn’t supposed to be listening to music at all. She wasn’t supposed to know what a lesbian was. Let alone BE one. An original creation, Julie Schurr’s fusion of musical styling and technique is all her own: Indierockbitchfolk. She’s been showcasing it to her fans in St. Imuis and Detroit, winning loyal converts. Now that she’s finished her degree & produced a full-length album, she just can’t imagine any other career path. So it’s a good thing that album sales are steadily rising and venues keep opening their doors. Julie will be out on tour and finishing up her 2nd album, which is planned for release in early 2008. Julie Schurr has headlined Pride and Coming Out day celebrations around the country and has been featured on Curvemag.com and in the Advocate. Her two hour performance will include acoustic music from her current album as well as her unique style of audience participation and comedy. Show tour locations listed below. Eureka Springs, Arkansas Feb 9 2008 10:00P Lumberyard Bar and Grille Baton Rouge, Louisiana Feb 15 2008 8:00P Hound Dog’s - Time TBA Fayetteville, Arkansas Feb 10 2008 8:30P Common Grounds New Orleans, Louisiana Feb 16 2008 9:30P Station 8801 More information on Julie can be found online at: www.julieschurr. corn or www.myspace.com/julieschurr. the STAR 13 �by Liz Highleyraan Past Out, which 100"ks at the life of South l frican gay activist Simon Nk01i, W-ho was Simon Nko li ? Soweto student uprising in the summer of 1976, he joined the Congress of South African Students (COSAS), the ~AaCrican National Congress (ANC), and the United Democratic Front (UDF). Fellow COSAS members debated removing him from his position of regional secretary when his sexual orientation became known, but a large majority ultimately voted in his favor. Long a~vare of his same-sex attractions, Nkoli began his first serious relationship at age 19, with a white bus driver. After Nkoli revealed this to his mother, she sent him to a series of local healers, a Christian priest, and finally a psychologist, who turned out to be gay himself and advised the lovers to live together - even if Nkoli had to pose as his partner’s servant to evade racial segregation laws. In his early 20s, after coming out in an interview with a black newspaper, Nkoli joined the newly formed Gay Association of South Africa (GASA), which consisted mostly of middle-class white men. Resolutely apolitical, the group resisted Nkoli’s requests to hold social events at nonsegregated venues, leading him to form the Saturday Group, the country’s first black gay organization, in 1984. Around the same time, amid growing racial discord, Nkoli stepped up his anti-apartheid activism, helping organize a tenant rent strike in the town of Delmas. Charged with killing a man by throwing a rock during a protest, Nkoli was arrested, tortured, and imprisoned. Along with 21 other black activist leaders, he was tried in 1986 for the capital crimes of subversion, conspiracy, and treason. hrough his dedication and courage, black gay antiapartheid activist Simon Tseko Nkoli played a key role in the fight for GLBT liberation and human rights for people with HIV/AIDS in South Africa. Nkoli was born in Soweto in November 1957. He spent part of his childhood living with his grandparents, tenant farmers on a white estate, before moving to Sebokeng township to join his mother and stepfather. Nkoli became an anti-apartheid activist at a young age. After multiple arrests for civil disobedience, including participation in the 14 the STAR While in prison awaiting trial, Nkoli revealed his homosexuality to his co-defendants - ANC and UDF members who would later hold high-level positions in the post-apartheid government - and they came to respect and support him as a gay man. "This country wilt never protect the rights of its gay and lesbian citizens unless we stand up and fight - even when it makes us unpopular with our own comrades," he later wrote. Nkoli came out more publicly during the trial, when he used his attendance at a GASA meeting as an alibi to counter claims that he had been present at a clandestine political meeting. In 1988, the charges against him were dropped and he was released. During his imprisonment, Nkoli became a cause celebre for gay rights activists around the world, but he received minimal support from the accomodationist GASA. This stance led the International Lesbian and Gay Association (ILGA) to suspend GASA for its failure to condemn apartheid, and the latter group soon collapsed. After his release, Nkoli co-founded the Gay and Lesbian Organization of the \vgitwatersrand - the country’s first genuinely integrated GLBT organization - and later the National Coalition for Gay and Lesbian Equality (now the Lesbian and Gay Equality Project). "I am black and I am gay," he proclaimed at the first South African Pride march in 1990. "I cannot separate the two parts of me into secondary or primary struggle. They will be all one struggle." Nkoli traveled widely speaking about the situation in his country, served as an ILGA board member representing Africa, and earned numerous honors for his work. Nkoli’s anti-apartheid activism and ties with movement leaders proved instrumental in winning the ANC’s support for gay rights. In 1994, he met with Nelson Mandela, whose election as president marked the end of the apartheid era. As the newly integrated country crafted its constitution, Nkoli lobbied for sexual orientation to be included in its anti-discrimination provisions, and also argued for repeal of sodomy laws. In 1996, South Africa became the first country to include explicit constitutional protection for GLBT people. A decade later, in fulfillment of a court mandate based on the constitution, the South African parliament legalized same-sex marriage. Yet even as the gay movement gained strength and the apartheid regime crumbled, the AIDS epidemic reached crisis proportions in the 1990s, reintensifying racism and homophobia. Having been diagnosed with HIV himself (likely contracted in prison), Nkoli turned his focus to AIDS activism, co-founding groups including the Positive African Men’s Project and the Township AIDS Project. As the decade wore on, Nkoli experienced increasing bouts of ill health; he died of an AiDS-related infection on November 30, 1998, in the company of his long-time partner, Roderick Sharp. Though Nkoli himself was not able to benefit from effective new HIV drugs, his work for universal treatment access inspired fellow gay and anti-apartheid activist Zackie Achmat to form the Treatment Action Campaign, which today is widely regarded as the strongest AIDS activist group in the world. www.ozarksstar.com �DNC ELECTS R£CORD NUMBER OF LGBT MEMBERS TO 2008 DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CON NTION STANDING COMMITTEES Appointments Reflect Strength, Diversity and Energy of Democratic Party DENVER, CO (P/R) __ The Executive Committee of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) unanimously elected DNC Chairman Howard Dean’s nominations for the Chairs and members of the 2008 Democratic National Convention Standing Committees, including a record number of openly LGBT members. Dean’s LGBT appointments include Dr. Marjorie Hill of the Gay Men’s Health Crisis organization in New York, Diego Sanchez from AIDS Action Committee of Massachusetts, State Representative Patricia Todd of Alabama, and Ingrid Duran of Virginia to serve on the Platform Committee, along with Claire Lucas and Evan Low of California to the Rules Committee and Bob Rogan of Vermont to the Credentials Committee. In addition to appointing a record number of LGBT standing committee members, Dean was also the first DNC chair to appoint a member of the transgender community to a Convention committee. The Standing Committees of the Convention are responsible for reviewing Convention business and formulating recommendations for consideration by Convention delegates. The Executive Committee’s vote took place during the panel’s recent meeting in Denver, site of the four-day Convention in August. "The record turnout and enthusiasm we’ve seen for our Democratic candidates is a clear sign that Americans trust Democrats to bring much needed change to our country," said Governor Dean. "These outstanding leaders reflect the great strength, diversity and energy of the Democratic Party, and I’m confident their efforts will ensure our Convention in Denver is reflective of our shared values and our nominee’s vision for America." The elections included the Chairs and 25 Party Leader and Elected Official (PLEO) www.ozarksstar.com members of the three Convention Standing Committees: Credentials, Platform and Rules. Each committee has a total of 186 members. An additional 161 members elected by each of the states’ and territories’ Convention delegations wil! join Governor Dean’s appointments to the committees later this spring. For a full list of and biographical information on the Chairs and PLEO members from each Standing Committee, visit http:llwww.demconvention.comlalstandingcommittees.pdf. Credentials Committee The Credentials Committee is charged with coordinating issues around the selection of delegates and alternates to the Convention and will likely meet in the summer. The committee will issue a report that is the first official item of business at the Convention. Platform Committee The Platform Committee is responsible for drafting and recommending a proposed National Platform for approval at the Convention. After conducting hearings and forums to collect testimony on issues and policies to potentially include in the platform, the committee is likely to meet sometime in July. Rttles Committee The Rules Committee is responsible for proposing the Permanent Rules for the Convention, adopting the proposed Convention agenda and making recommendations for permanent Convention officers - all addressed as the second official item of business at the Convention. The committee will meet sometime in August, prior to the Convention. Huckabee ir ks gay sex to bestiality, abortion to slavery WASHINGTON (AFP) -- Republican presidential hopeful and former Baptist pastor Mike Huckabee linked gay sex to bestiality and abortion to slavery in an interview Thursday, explaining why, if elected, he would try to amend the constitution. "Marriage has ... as long as there’s been human history, meant a man and a woman in a relationship for life. Once we change that definition, then where does it go from there?" he asked in an interview with online "Beliefnet" magazine. "Well, I don’t think that’s a radical view, to say we’re going to affirm marriage. I think the radical view is to say that we’re going to change the definition of marriage so that it can mean two men, two women, a man and three women, a man and a child, a man and animal," he added. "The Bible was not written to be amended. The Constitution was," he said, announcing his intention to amend the document if he were to be elected president in November to ban abortion and establish that life begins at the moment of conception. Leaving it up to individual states to outlaw abortion within their own borders is not enough, he said. "That’s again the logic of the Civil War -- that slavery could be okay in Georgia but not okay in Massachusetts. Obviously we’d today say, ’Well, that’s nonsense. Slavery is wrong, period. It can’t be right somewhere and wrong somewhere else.’ Same with abortion," Huckabee said. Huckabee won the Iowa Republican caucuses earlier this month, the first contest in the race for each party’s nomination to run for the White House. He is in second place behind Arizona Senator John McCain in opinion polls for Saturday’s primaries in South Carolina. the STAR 15 �Brief history Cabernet Sauvignon, like all noble wine grape varieties, is of the species VitiS ~inifera, and genetic studies in 1997 indicated it is the result of a cross between Cabemet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. Cabernet Sauvignon is most directly associated with the wines of Bdrdeaux~ and especially those of its Left Ba~k, which ncludes the top tier appellations of St.-Estephe, Pauillac, St.-Julien; and Margaux, among others. It makes Up the majority portion of the blends of all of the Grand Cru wines of the 1855 classification. In Bordeaux, blending is comm0n With ! !e other allowable varietals: Merlot, cabe~ et Franc, Pettlt Verdot, and Malbec. Cabal ~et Sauvignon is also cultivated in other ~i~i as in France, notably LanguedocTRousillor and has great acclaim the wodd Over. .... pe-t attack brain ce Is an .... p. des , , which ...... u, ~.~ par[ or wna[ causes Alzne~mer s. in snort wewine enthusiasts can enjoy drinking to our good health. ........... var e a ol s nc on Cabemet Sauvignon has a well defined ~rnrn~a In Old ~J~rld wine~ n~rficularlv those made n Bordeaux th s s charac¯ tensed by a smel I of blackcurrant, cedar and spice. New Wodd wines of this grape are more often dominated by aromas of ~ oak, pepper and earth. smell of m wines made in most characterrm-climate examples is of t wine. ~ne. Cabs ~eese5 s ton, " ’ the lower Yakima Valley. In late 2006, the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology published the result of studies conducted at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine that showed the beneficial relationship of Cabernet Sauvignon in reducing the dsk factors associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The stud trol, a compound found reduce levels of amyloid beta the BTAR Magnificen~Wine COmpany House Wine Columbia ~/alley 05 wwwlMagnificentVVine,com Cabemet Sauvignon 54% Medot 30% Syrah 11Yo, Mabec3% Franc2~{~ Grea"~ ble naana - - for~nepnce -" "" ~ d t -eat . ’ [’snar oD Cono Sur Cab/Carmenere Chile ’06 v~zw.ConoSur.com This organic wine offers a robust, fruit- filled nose of raspberry & plum The palate reveals a flaVorfu nutty taste and has a long finish. Dadoush Duet Napa ’04 ~.dadoush.com rings California is after BOrdeaux as the wodd’s largest grower of Cabemet Sauvignon. This grape is found mostly in the Napa Valley and Sonoma County. In Calif6mi~, the area of Cabemet Sauvignon planting doubled in the 1990s. As in Bordeaux, it is often blended with Franc to produce wo At heady $10 a bottlel ddnks like a cab twice the coSL Thi~ Cabernet presents itse f with a nose Of bourbon-soake~ Cherries with a finish of chbcotate and Cedar. A blend of Cabemet and Shiraz Enticing aromas of blackberry with a coffee bean and a finish Of nutmeg & white pepper best descdbe this wine, Irony Cabernet Napa ’03 w~w.lronyWine. om This is a b0ld and complex wine, which reflects the melding Of ~nique ~haractedstics from pdme vineyards in Sever&l different Napa appellations. Tobacco Cocoa and bright red berry characters make this a red wine to ~njoy. And as always, I say go to your favodte wine shop, ask qdestion~ and p~rchase a bottle or two. Share Some food & wine with friends and check it out for yourself. Complex aromas from hazelnut finish. cassis clove/ Mr. D als0 hosts wine & food events as the Wine Enthusiasts of Tulsa, :~ww.ozarksstar.com ��by Donald Pile and Ray CITyo In our travels to both the East Coast and the West Coast everyone alwa:ys asks the same question to us. V?here ro par .ry in the Midwest? we a!ways tell them the best two places to part? areTuAsa and Oklahoma City. It is hard for most people on both coast to believe, but unless you have been there you certainly wit! not believe that in the Bible belt of OHahoma is this fabulous gay mecca. month we told you about Tulsa and this month we ~2e telling you about Oklahon~a City. We have been going to Oklahoma City to party for over 25 veals. "Ihe HABAN~ INN Resort has been a gay resort for over 25 years. It is the Midwest’s largest at! gay resort. A two story complex with ov& 175 rooms, most of which tS_ce one of the two swimming pools. The rooms are spacious and vmT inexpensive. It is a totally gay resort. Lush tropical plants and trees surround the poo! areas. Gays fron-t all over the midwest as well as both coasts have been going there for years, and it is busy 7 days a week, not juston weekends. Lounge around the pool area and you are sure ~o meet that "someone specia!". They are located 2200 NW 39rh Expressway and their toll free number is 1.800.988.2221. Within the resort complex they have a wonderful restaurant ...... Gushers whmh has a great ambiance and serves dehc i ous fioo d , and is reasonable priced. "Itae restaurant overlooks one of the pod areas so you cim enjoy the bovs frolicking in the pool as you are dining. They also offe~ sandwich~s, soups, salads, pastas and appetizers, add a breakfast menu is available on weekends. There are three bars in the Habana Inn complex which are completely different. COPA is a dance, disco and drag bar. WeeNy they have male dancers, drag shows and comedians. FINISHLtNE is a c0untrylwestern bar with plenty of countiT dancing. ~t~is is the place to se~ the real cowboys and cowgirls in action. THE LEDO is ~ quiet piano bar. All the bartenders are super friendly and they all kn~w h~w to make out of towners feel right at home. The owner of the bars and restaurant is to be commended for his outstanding job ¯ . i [ ,~ ! ’ ! i, , Within a block of the Habana Inn resort you wilt find about 4 more gay bars c~tering to different tastes. A major grocery store is just one block away as are several other restaurants. A cab ride from the akport costs less than $20.00. The HABANA INN resort is located one blo& west of the intersection of Penn and interstate 1-44 and is easy to find. Plus. there are a lot of siOits to see in Oklahoma City, The Cowboy Hail of Fame has artifacts !otsofoil the west is do things like this. Just a couple doors away from the Habana Inn is ANGLES ar 21 t7 N.\V. 39th St.. Their website is: w~,~w.anglesclub. corn Also in the resort is J UNGLE RED, an adult gift shop with magazines, videos, cards, gifts, leather, Pride items plus a lot of decorative items for the home. 18 the STAR For more ~ habanainn.com and ma’s Gay Website: ww~.ozarksstar.com ?dways remember to have fun when ratk to everyone! �ju~st simply pe~ection t00% of pecial "TI~KS" ’!egance in dining. by Donald Pile and Ray Williams dodt skimp on gets around and emails from our readers asking if ONLY sto ALWAYS have a about~ m be one that we have ever seen! ’gqth ~a Wetl as travelers all time however. A ger-a-way~ check i~ out the Inn at 410, w~:410.com have the most um~sua! and exciting, and B. ~eit rooms world! the closest gay" t this a used condom under the The Vi!lag~ St. and you just cannot Steve owns the Gaslight a long broken And in Palm 4 they also seem to be some Metwn’s Restaurant, ~vw.inglesideinn.com www.ozarkssiar.com .... Con~ued page 23 the STAR 19 �Downtown Savannah) historic district is abundant with fine shops and restaurants, including the innovative Sapphire Grill, one of the city’s top eateries. (P,6oto by Andrew Collins) of gay-friendly shops and restaurants. Downtown Savannah’s shopping scene continues to evolve from traditional to fashion-forward - a Marc by Marc Jacobs flagship store opened here in April 2007, and many contemporary boutiques and art galleries now line the city’s oak-shaded streets. Near City Market, you’ll find the gay disco, Club One, which is the performing home of The Lady Chablis, who figured so prominently in The Book, as Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil is commonly referred to by locals. Plenty of folks come to Savannah to seek out the sites that were brought to life in this mesmerizing tale (although it is nonfiction, The Book reads like a delicious novel). Of partictflar note is the privately owned Mercer House, in which Midnight’s central figure, antiques dealer Jim Williams, shot and killed his young lover, Danny Hansford, in 1981 (the question of whether Williams fired in self-defense or as a calculated act of murder is debated to this day). Georgi After years of lagging behind nearby Charleston in popularity, historic Savannah soared to new heights in the ’90s and remains one of the nation’s hottest destinations. Much of the city’s renaissance had do to with the staggering popularity of John Berendt’s best-seller, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, whose droll yet salacious account of Savannah society propelled the city into a gay hotspot almost overnight. The jewel of Georgia’s lazily enchanting seacoast, Savannah was founded in 1733 by British General James Oglethorpe, who designed the perfect grid of streets and grassy tree-shaded squares for which this city of 130,000 is still famous. Savannah prospered as a silk exporter during its first century, before developing into one of the world’s major cotton suppliers. Much of downtown consists of elaborate brick and stucco Victorian buildings built following an 1820 fire that destroyed many of the city’s beautiful wood-frame Colonial homes. Had General Sherman not spared Savannah during his notorious and destructive "March to the Sea," most of these Victorian structures would also have been burned. Begin your explorations of the city inside the restored 1860s rail terminal that houses both the Savannah Visitor Information Center and the Savannah History Museum. This complex is at the southwestern edge of historic downtown. From here it’s a short walk north to City Market, a three-block pedestrian mall with a handful 20 the STAR Its literary fame - or notoriety - notwithstanding, Savannah still rivals any Southern destination for its bedazzled and meticulously restored house museums. If you have time for only one, visit the Owens-Thomas House, a splendid 1819 Regency mansion built by renowned British architect William Jay. Nearby is the Isaiah Davenport House, an 1815 Federal beauty. To see a fine collection of classical sculpture and Impressionist painting, visit the Telfair Mansion and Art Museum, a memorable 1818 structure in its own right. In 2006, the museum expanded with the construction of the striking newJepson Center for the Arts, which added more galleries and exhibition space. At the north end of the historic district, the city’s riverfront is lined with a stately row of restored cotton warehouses - now containing a slew of touristy businesses - and a cobbled lane that’s sits a full flight of steps below the rest of the city. The best time to appreciate it and the views of the bridge and freighters chugging along the Savannah River is in the morning, when you’ll encounter few crowds. One great way to explore downtown and get some advice on the local gay scene is to take a guided walk with knowledgeable local Jonathan Stalcup, who runs Architectural Tours of Savannah. For dining, avoid most of the mediocre eateries by the river and stick to one of the several local favorites, virtually all of them gayfriendly. One of the most famous restaurants in the South, Elizabeth on 37th specializes in subtly sublime regional cooking, www.ozarksstar.com �such as sesame-almond-crusted grouper with peanut sauce; and grilled rack of lamb with corn pudding, stewed okra, and tomatoes. Sexy and sophisticated Sapphire Grill serves some exciting and innovative contemporary American fare - consider the jumbo lump crab cake ,vith lemon curd, green-zebra tomatoes, and red chard. A bit more affordable, chic It Pasticcio presents contempora~7 Northern Italian cuisine - try the grilled gorgonzola-crusted filet mignon with a potato-pancetta gratin. Olde Pink House is one of those Savannah traditions that everybody should experience at least once - fine Continental fare with regional twists, like black grouper stuffed xvith blue crab and a Vidalia onion sauce, is served. Garibaldi’s, in an 1870s firehouse, prepares simple but very good Italian fare, such as pesto shrimp with angel hair pasta. For either lunch or dinner, the trendy City Market Cafe is a dependable choice, serving delicious wild mushroom, blue cheese, and prosciutto salad, as well as terrific thin-crust pizzas. The only GLBT-exclusive B&B in Savannah, 912 Barnard is also one of the least expensive. This dramatic yellow turn-of-the-century house has been handsomely restored to its original splendor, with antiques and authentic colors that convey the ambience of the city. A fully restored 1889 sea captain’s house that once belonged to one of Savannah’s wealthiest merchants, the Azalea Inn is quite gay-friendly. All rooms are configured and decorated differently; and each has a gas fireplace; two have whirlpool tubs, and two have balconies. For the most memorable accommodations, however, look to the gay-friendly Mansion on Forsyth Park, which offers some of finest digs in town. This stylish mini-resort beside verdant Forsyth Park contains 126 rooms with smart, contemporary furnishings, plus a top-notch spa, a cooking school, two cool bars, an art gallery, and the highly regarded 700 Drayton Restaurant. Opened in 2005, the hotel offers further evidence of Savannah’s gradual shift from a bastion of Old South gentility to a beacon of New South panache and It’s touristy, but fans of Food Network TV star Paula Deen won’t want to pass up a chance to dine at her downtown Savannah restaurant, ~lhe Lady & Sons, known for its down-home Southern cuisine. An elegant basement space with a youthful, see-and-be-seen following, Jazz’d Tapas Bar is perfect for late-night snacking - recommended fare include potato-leek frittata with fig chutney, and citrus-ginger-glazed shrimp-and-scallops skewers. ~he lesbian-owned Firefly Cafe serves affordable American fare, including plenty of fresh veggie dishes. ~l-his dapper spot overlooks Troup Square and is especially popular for brunch (try the Savannah eggs Benedict topped with fresh crab meat). For post-club noshing, check out Sushi Zen, a hip and gay-popular Asian restaurant with a convivial vibe. ~he bar staff and regulars in Savannah’s bars are friendly and forward. Although some locals shun the touristy and cavernous Club One, it’s one of the most impressive clubs in the Southeast, and it can be fun when ~lhe Lady Chablis is performing. Other options include Chuck’s, a friendly locals joint near the river that draws a mixed bunch; and Blaine’s Back Door Bar, a casual cruise and dance lounge that also has a dell serving pretty tasty sandwiches and pizza. Not gay per se, Venus de Milo is a sexy and sophisticated wine bar with a welcoming, bohemian vibe - it’s just west of City Market. Down along the riverfront, gay-friendly Kevin Barry’s Irish Pub is popular early in the evening for Irish music, food, and drink. With the recent rise in gay tourism, Savannah’s grand old hotels have become increasingly hospitable to visiting same-sex couples. Among the city’s many classic luxury inns, the Ballastone Inn is renowned for its gracious hospitality and over-the-top, lavish rooms. The four-story 1838 mansion sits along one of the prettiest streets in the city. A mid-19th-century inn with an expansive landscaped courtyard, the Eliza Thompson House and its grand guest rooms look much as you might imagine they did when cotton was king of Savannah. Original heart-pine floors and period antiques impart a romantic ambience, and yet rooms have comfortable, modern amenities, especially the bathrooms. Rooms at the Foley House Inn contain antiques and Oriental rugs; many overlook Chippewa Square and have massive two-person Jacuzzis. Of affordable chain properties, the Comfort Suites Historic District is clean, pleasantly furnished, and a short walk from City Market. www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 21 �TA-BOO’ RESTAURANT Palm Beach, Florida .[Ldocated on Worth Avenue in Palm Beach, Florida, TA-BOO’ is a real treat! Stretching four fabulous blocks from South Ocean Blvd. to Cocoanut Row on Palm Beach island, Worth Avenue is one of the world’s most exclusive shopping districts. q-he Avenue boasts a sumptuous mix of more than 200 world-famous specialty shops, posh department stores, gourmet restaurants and art galleries. It is like the Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, California. A coat and tie (or ascot) is of course necessary even at lunch time. TA-BOO’ has been in business for over 60 years. It has the classic ambiance of a private gentlemen’s club brightened by Palm Beach’s smart set, it atmosphere is both comfortable and busding all at the same time. Slowly spinning ceiling fans, tropical fishtail palms and leafy dangling porthos vines frame a mural of an ocean vita, complete with Miznetresque terra-cotta rooftops in the foreground. Down a terra-cotta pathway, the long bar is an Avenue tradition for a variety of patrons - from the burger and beer set to those with an affinity for a rack of lamb and a little Veuve Clicquot! A soothing marine 22 the STAR aquarium illuminates the bar’s neighboring bistro. Their menu covers the basics, from comfort food to top-notch cuisine. If you’re dining for lunch, start with the sushi-quality carpaccio of tuna or try the ever-popular warm grilled chicken and pears salad. Dinner is all about Maine Lobster, white Dover sole meuniere, crispy roast mahogany duck and linguine with lump crab. Dessert is a MUST, partictflarly the signature "Ta-boo’ lust", a sinful concoction of coconut cream filling and whipped cream atop a walnut cookie crust. \re always dine there at least once when we are in Florida and it does just keep getting better everytime! Owners Franklyn DeMarco and Nancy Sharigan are regular hosts. You never know what famous celebrities you will be dining with. We particularly enjoy their Swordfish. strai= glass. Serve. Lunch is served from 11:30 AM to 5 PM and dinner is served from 5 PM to 10 PM weekdays and from 5 PM to 11 PM on Friday and Saturday. Sunday Brunch is served till 3 PM. They are located at 221 Worth Avenue and for reservations call: (561) 835-3500. www.ozarksstar.com �GAY TR_&VELERS: having a lot of financial problems as they at first were going to open mid-summer, then in the fall and now they don’t know if they will open or not. We booked an accommodation and in Denver a couple of years ago and when we got to the destination, we found that it was simply a condo unit with two bedrooms and the guy rented out one of the bedrooms! In South Dakota, we booked a reservation and when arriving, the owner gave up HIS bedroom for us and then he slept on the sofa! Sometimes restaurants can also be a complete disaster. From being dirty, to rude servers, to bad food and service, it can always be interesting to say the least. But if you are not happy with a restaurant ..... LEAVE ! We have ~valked out of dozens of restaurants. If there is one problem, then usually a second problem develops and before you know it you are in a mess up to your ears, so why not just leave before it gets worse? The worst thing we hate to hear from a server, is "Don’t give me a hard time, I had a bad night last night". Who cares if the server had a bad night? They are there to "SERVE YOU" with a smile and with a professional attitude. We have at times paged the manager and requested that another server wait on us and we explain fully why. There are a lot of excellent servers in restaurants but we just simply won’t accept bad service. If the food you ordered is not good nor cooked properly, quietly and gently tell your server the problem. Bartenders can really be a pain in the ass sometimes. One bartender in Seattle doesn’t like to wait on people sitting at the bar. Rather, you have to go to his station, order and get your drinks and then return to your bar stoo!. How crazy is that? We have had bartenders that didn’t even know how to make a screwdriver! Most likely they didn’t know how to make a Bourbon and 7 either! Other bartenders are eating or smoking while trying to wait on you. We simply tell them that ~vhen they are thru eating or thru with their smoke break, then they can take our order. If a bartender is behind the bar and smoking and serving us, we explain exactly why we are not leaving a tip! Fortunately more and more states are becoming non-smoking and that takes care of the problems. Having said this, we have found that most bartenders are friendly, fun, wonderful and professional and our hats off to all of them! They enjoy what they are doing and make great tips. Websites can often be deceiving and indeed sometimes they are! \Vhenever possible and especially when booking accommodations, it is smart to check around to see if you kmow anybody that has actually stayed there. As far as restaurants or bars, it is easier to just walk out if there is a problem. You pay good money and you expect your money’s worth. Most accommodations, restaurants and bars are run very professional. Their staff is professional and courteous and friendly. Don’t you just love it when your traveling At least one overnight stay by a non-resident Rank Destination Percent who visited in the last 12 months 1 New York City, NY 16.0% 2 Las Vegas, NV 14.3% 3 San Francisco, CA 12.9% 4 Los Angeles/\Vest Hollywood, CA 11.9% 5 Ft. Lauderdale/Wilton Manors, FL 10.5% 6 Palm Springs, CA 10.1% 7 Chicago, IL 9.2% 8 San Diego, CA 8.8% 9 Washington, DC 8.6% 10 Miami/South Beach, FL (tie) 8.2% 10 Orlando, FL (tie) 8.2% "Community Marketing’s studies are unique in the tourism industry," McHugh said. "Other studies try to rank gay friendliness or popularity, but this study actually quantifies the bottom line: Where did gay and lesbian consumers go and spend their money?" Most-Visited International DestinationsRank Destination Percent who visited in the last 12 months 1 London 8.4% 2 Puerto Vallarta 7.6% 3 Paris 6.2% 4 Vancouver 6.1% 5 Montreal 5.9% 6 Toronto 5.6% 7 US Virgin Islands 5.1% 8 Cancun 5.0% 9 Puerto Rico 4.8% 10 Rome 4.7% Respondents indicated that they chose leisure destinations because friends recommended them, they offer unique attractions, and are known for their gay-friendliness. "Clearl),, when destinations show gay and lesbian visitors a good time, that is the best advertising investment they can make," said McHugh. "Word of mouth marketing is very powerful among the gay and lesbian community. It’s not enough to slap a rainbow on an ad and call it a day. The most successful destinations ~vork with their tourism and hospitality partners to earn that kind of loyalty and referral. This is accomplished through education, training, and offering a genuinely gay-welcoming social and political atmosphere." and everything goes smoothly? But once in a while it doesn’t and you have a choice to make ........... either accept it or do something about it. And it is YOUR choice! Life is to short to settle on anything less than fabulous! Always remember to have fun when traveling, meet new people and talk to everyone! TRAVELING IN OUR FABULOUS WORLD is written by Donald Pile and Ray Williams, Award-winning Celebrity travel columnists who write for gay publications from Coast to Coast. Proud members of the IGLTA. You can email them at: gaytravelers@aol.com or visit their webpage at: http://www.hometown.aol. com/gaytravelers www.ozarksstar.com Ouotab e Quotes "Gayest Democratic convention ever? A record 16 percent of delegates to the Democratic National Committee’s platform committee for the Denver convention are LGBT", says Howard Dean. The STAR 23 ���By Ronald Blake Exercise can make you bigger, stronger, and faster. These are the obvious results from a fertile regimen of physical activity. There are other benefits from exercise that are sure to have the neighbors stand up and take notice. Exercise can stimulate new growth of neurons and even help you to keep the neurons that you possess. Neurons are those little things in your body that transport messages throughout your legs, arms, torso, and head. They are good to have around if you yearn to communicate and learn. This comes as good news to those of you who destroyed countless neurons in your previous existence as an irresponsible college student ~vith that degree in undecided. There is hope for you debaucherous mongrels and physical activity is certainly one answer. Faster reaction times can be attributed to exercise. You will be able to hit baseballs thrown at ninety-five miles per hour. You will be able to dodge bullets from Tony Soprano’s goombahs. You will be able to more effectively bob and weave through the one-two combination of Oscar DeLaHoya. You might even be able to negotiate better in traffic on the 666 Freeway on your route to work on Mondays. Can I get an "amen" to more effective reaction times due to running, walking, and double-dutching? Mental challenges become mere child’s play in response to the dashing good looks of Mr. Exercise. Yes, exercise has been known to unravel the mysteries of the universe. Even Albert Einstein was spotted riding bicycles and frolicking along the ocean during his sojourn on this planet. These physical exertions were rumored to have led to his great theories on relativity. You might just settle for solving the complexities of a Rubik’s cube or that set of instructions on putting your barbecue grill together. 26 the STAR Your memory can behold the effects of a good physical fitness program. There is a site in your brain called the hippo campus that can enlarge in mass and reap the goodness of jumping jacks and other means of physical activities. This enlargement of the hippo campus translates into better memory and possibly the ability to treat Alzheimer’s patients. ~aink of all the time you waste trying to recall where you placed your cell phone, keys, black socks, or W2 form from work. Start using that wasted time on exercise that will jump start that short-term memory compartment. Your mood can be positively impacted by the release of neurotrophins. These chemicals are released when you decide to participate in an active lifestyle. They rush into your system and make you feel happy and vivacious. Consider reaching for your roller blades instead of that sleeve of Girl Scout mints to turn that frown upside down the next time you are grumpy. Sunshine, lollipops, and rainbows everywhere will be your reward. If we all reconvene in another five years, it is quite likely that ongoing research will show even more benefits of the brain and exercise combination. Keep sweating to the oldies with Richard Simmons and know that good things will always follow. A mind is a terrible thing to waste. This column is brought to you by that guy who prefers to frame a collage of one dollar bills instead of framing that replica of"Starry Night" from Michaels. That guy is Ron Blake and he can be reached www. goblakefitness.com. �erupts in Auso Jesus 9 ay SYDNEY (AFP) -- Australian church leaders have condemned a play shortly to open in Sydney depicting Jesus as a gay man who is seduced by Judas, a report said Sunday. INTE ATIONAL GAY SC ENPLAY CONTEST- 10th ANNIVERSARY Apart from the relations between Jesus and Judas, the play also features Jesus conducting a gay marriage between two apostles. HOLLYWOOD, CA (PR) __ The ONE IN TEN SCREENPLAY CONTEST, a screenplay contest dedicated to the positive portrayal of gays, lesbians, bisexuals, trangender and queer individuals in film, celebrates it’s 10th anniversary in 2008. Entries are nmv being accepted online and are limited to the first 300 for 2008. Executive Director, David Jensen, "We are excited to celebrate our 10th anniversary and are looking at a record number of entries this year. We are continually amazed with the quality of talent that comes through the door year after year." Jensen continues, "\Ve receive entries from around the globe and Hollywood is taking notice in a very big way. Many of our past winners are now hard working screenwriters" The play’s director Leigh Rowney, who claims to be a Christian, accepted the play would offend some Christians but said he was keen to provoke debate about Christianity. The ONE IN TEN SCREENPLAY CONTEST has gained respect and notoriety from Hollywood studios, agents and producers. Entries for 2008 are being accepted online at: www.OnelnTenScreenplayContest.com "I wanted this play in the hands of a Christian person like myself to give it dignity but still open it up to answering questions about Christianity as a faith system," Rowney was quoted saying. Prizes for 2008 include cash, industry exposure and merchandise. The 2008 One In Ten Screenplay Contest is sponsored by: Cherub Productions, Final Draft Inc., scr(i)pt magazine, www.inktip.com, www. TopFilmFestivals.com, www.ScreenplayContests.com and Jungle Software. Xhe play, named Corpus Christi, is due to open next month as part of the city’s annual Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, Sydney’s SunHerald newspaper reported. A senior Sydney churchman called the play "historical nonsense". "It is deliberately, not innocently, offensive and they’re obviously having a laugh about it," Robert Forsyth, Anglican bishop of South Sydney, was quoted saying. Playwright Terrence McNally, who is gay, received death threats when the work was performed in the United States, the newspaper said. The submission deadline for 2008 ONE IN TEN SCREENPLAY CONTEST is September 1, 2008. Entry forms are available online through the contest website: www.OnelnTenScreenplayContest.com. Entry forms may also be obtained through the mail by sending a self addressed stamped envelope to: CHERUB PRODUCTIONS One In Ten Screenplay Contest Post Office Box 540 Boulder, Colorado 80306 (303) 629-3072 www.screenplaycontests.com E-mai!: Cherubfilm@aol.com www.ozarksstar.com Community for People living with 50! c (~) Non P~ofi[ Orga~ation Our House, Too offers a variety of activities for people who are HtV+ and or living with AIDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves. We invite anyone who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail hardsmmjr@yahoo.com. Quotable Quotes More than 90 percent of gays and lesbians vote in U.S. presidential elections, compared to 64 percent of straight citizens. Queer folk are twice as likely as straight folk to vote in midterm elections. Community Marketing, Inc. (CMI), a leading LGBT market research company. the STAR 27 �As Mercury lines up with the Sun in Aquarius, everyone is a bit more know-it-all and too damn clever for his or her own good. Try to be adaptive, open-minded, and a good listener, and you will be much smarter - however discreetly - than the people voicing their grand ideas. ARIES (March 20 -April 19): Friends who seem relentless in urging you on are actually doing you a favor. You’re capable of more than you realize. Going it alone would weaken you. Let them help you, and you’ll go far! TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): Question authority, but pay attention to what those in power say. Expert advice needs some expansion and clarification, and asking for that will prove advantageous. Asking questions doesn’t make you look foolish, but not asking them when you should will! SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 20): Insisting that you’re right only exposes more glaringly where you’re wrong. Try to keep an open mind, and remember what basic principles are really important. Adapt with new conditions and new ideas to keep up! CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19): Adaptability is not only an enduring value, it is one of your sign’s best attributes. New ideas that seem to be an affront to your sensibilities can prove very helpful, and will eventually affirm the values they seem to attack. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): You’re getting a birthday bolt of fabulosity in which anything could happen, and you’ll make sure it will. Thrive on the attention, but take a little time out to charge your batteries. Let yourself be surprised. Really surprised. PISCES (February 19 - March 19): Working behind the scenes, especially in a charitable effort, will be to your advantage. The political connections will be obvious, but there will be more surprising benefit!! GEMINI (May 21 - Jun~ 20): You’re itching for a power struggle. Playing it out in the bedroom can release that energy so your uppity impulses don’t make trouble for you at work. Or focus and harness that energy more deliberately at work, if you can! CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Your mouth is running way ahead of your brain and your good sense. Try to stick to places where a lack of inhibition and tasteful restraint can work to your favor. Anywhere else, slow down and think about what you’re saying. LEO (July 23 - August 22): Your partner - in life or in the moment - will offer some kinky new possibilities, expanding your erotic horizons. If your sweetie is drawing a blank in that department, start talking about tattoos and body art. Just discussing it should stimulate the imagination. VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): New approaches at work can make your job more productive and enjoyable. You have some great ideas, but don’t be so insistent on doing things your own way. Colleagues will offer surprising inspiration. LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): A new approach to your favorite sport or hobby can make it a lot more fun and/or creative. Ask yourself how Morn or Granny would approach it, whether you choose to follow that example or take a diametrically opposite approach. SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): If you can manage to have some fun with your family, you’ll be amazed at what secrets will be revealed in the process. Stand your ground gently in arguments, agreeing to disagree, and even more will come out! MC METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES Rev Steve T. Urie Spirit of Christ MCC 2902 E 20th Street Joplin, MO 64804 417-529-8480 Worship Saturdays at 10:00 AM Community Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM MCC of the Living Spring 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays at 6:00 PM Have a God filled and BleSSed Day! 28 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �DOWNTOWN PLAZA of TULSA 17 West 7th Street Tulsa, OK 918-585-5898 x~wv.downtownplazatulsa.com HABANA INN 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-528-2221 www.habanainn.com KELLY KIRBY, CPA 4815 S. HARVARD, SUITE 424 Tulsa, OK * 918-747-5466 Certified Public Accountant SUSAN HARTMAN Independent Broker Oklahoma and Arkansas 918-698-2977 susanlhar tman@gmail.com JUDY G. PHOTO’S Tulsa, OK judygphotos@sbcglobal.net 918-743-8636 CENTURY 21 GOLD CASTLE 3627 NW EXPRESS\grAy Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405-840-2106 vcww.c21 goldcastle.com CHUCK BRECKENRIDGE Keller Williams Realty Tulsa, OK 918-706-1887 GAY BRADY HEIGHTS-Tulsa New and Historic Homes for Sale and Rent For Info: www.gaybradyheightstulsa.com GUSHER’S RESTAURANT 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 Located inside Habana Inn ANGLES 2117 NW 39th St. Oklahoma City, OK www.anglesclub.com BAMBOO LOUNGE 7204 E. PINE Tulsa, OK 918-836-8700 www.bambooloungetulsa.com www.ozarksstar.corn CLUB MAJESTIC 124 N. BOSTON Tulsa, OK 918-584-9494 www.clubmajestictutsa.com FINISHLINE 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE COPA 2200 NW" 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE LEDO 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com DIVERSITY CHRISTIAN CNTR 211 S. Garnett Tulsa, OK 74128 www.realacceptance.com OUR HOUSE, TOO 203 N. Nogales Ave Tulsa, OK 74127 918-585-9552 HOPE TESTING CLINIC 3540 E. 31st Tulsa, OK 800-535-2437 Oklahoma’s HIV/STD Hotline SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC 2902 E. 20TH STREET, Joplin, MO * 479-529-8480 Service Saturday 9:30 AM Want the STAR delivered to your home or business? 12 issues for $33.95 will be mailed in a sealed envelope the 1 st of each month. Complete the form below and send with a check or moneyorder to: The STAR 5103 S. Sheridan Rd., #153 Tulsa, OK 74145 MCC of the LIVING SPRING 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays 6pro NW ARKANSAS GLBT CENTER Bentonville/Rogers 888-391-9222 WWW..NWAGLBTCC.ORG (Single Copies $3.00 per issue) NAME: Address: City:. St: Zip: Phone: Check enclosed Money Order Start Date: 29 �\Vc’hether buying or selling I’ll work hard for you. ~.~kansas GLBT Community Center "Linking Together as One" For more information: 888-391-9222 WWW.NWAGLBTCC. ORG 30 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �:hart \~;’.lLam ShakcsFea~;:. ,she ,~. www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 31 �°Aid � Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data magazine Text Any textual data included in the document Let us promote your business in a UNIQUE & D~VERSE market. Cal~ STAR ADVERTiSiNG today. (918}835o7887 2 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com OKLAHOMA PR£SIDENTIAL PRIMARY FEBRUARY 5 MAKE YOURVOTE COUNT By Victor Gorin Photo: ~ctor Gorin registering Thomas Bishop to vote in OKC Ifyou are registered as a Republican or Democrat in Oklahoma, soon it will be time to cast your vote to select your party favorite for our next president. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. and your polling place is on your voter card. You may vote early from 8 a.m. unti! 6 p.m. Friday February 1 and Monday February 4, and from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Saturday February 2. Call your local election board for your early voting site. Ifyou have lost your voter card, you may still vote if you are registered, and this you can find out by calling your local election board, who can also provide your polling place. In Oklahoma County that number is 713-1515, Tulsa County 596 5787. Although they appear on the Democratic ballot, 2 candidates have dropped from the race, Bill Richardson and Christopher Dodd. On the Republican ballot, Tom Tancredo appears on the ballot even though he has dropped from the race. Independent voters cannot vote for a presidential candidate in this Oklahoma election. However, you may have school board races that you can vote for, so be sure to check that out. Vote February 5 and make our voice heard. www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 3 SAINT VA~N~’~ The origin and history ofSaint Valentine’s A Night in the Palace ofVersailles, Barony of all Oklahoma crowns 1st Czar & Czarina. Dennis R. Neill Equality Center presents art by Jessica Newman. ~ DEEP ~S~D~: HOLL~OOD NEW: Deep Inside Hollywood, reports on new projects for Paul Rudd and Nathan Lane. Through his dedication and courage, black gay anti-apartheid activist Simon Tseko Nkoli played a key role in the fight for GLBT liberation and human rights for people with HIV/AIDS. Devre Jackson reviews Cabernet Sauvignon. ~~ C~AO TRAVEL Gay Travelers: Oklahoma City Out of Town: Savannah, GA Dining In or OUT Introspection can lead you to better understand yourself and ultimately to achieve greater happiness. ON THE COVER: Czar I Philtip Parker & Czarina I Kris Cherri Kohl 4 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com Valentine’s Day started in the time of the Roman Empire. In ancient Rome, February 14th was a holiday to honour Juno. Juno was the Queen of the Roman Gods and Goddesses. The Romans also knew her as the Goddess of women and marriage. The following day, February 15th, began the Feast of Lupercalia.The lives of young boys and girls were strictly separate. However, one of the customs of the young people was name drawing. On the eve of the festival of Lupercalia the names of Roman girls were written on slips of paper and placed into jars. Each young man would draw a girl’s name from the jar and would then be partners for the duration of the festival with the girl whom he chose. Sometimes the pairing of the children lasted an entire year, and often, they would fall in love and would later marry. Under the rule of Emperor Claudius II Rome was involved in many bloody and unpopular campaigns. Claudius the Cruel’was having a difficult time getting soldiers to join his military leagues. He believed that the reason was that Roman men did not want to leave their loves or families. As a result, Claudius cancelled all marriages and engagements in Rome. The good Saint Valentine (photo above) was a priest at Rome in the days of Claudius I1. He and Saint Marius aided the Christian martyrs and secretly married couples, and for this kind deed Saint Valentine was apprehended and dragged before the Prefect of Rome, who condemned him to be beaten to death with clubs and to have his head cut off. He suffered martyrdom on the 14th day of February, around the year 270. At that time it was the custom in Rome, a very ancient custom indeed, to celebrate in the month of February the Lupercalia, feasts in honour of a heathen god. On these occasions, amidst a variety of pagan ceremonies, the names of young women were placed in a box, from which they were drawn by the men as chance directed.The pastors of the early Christian Church in Rome endeavoured to do away with the pagan element in these feasts by substituting the names of saints for those of maidens. And as the Lupercalia began about the middle of February, the pastors appear to have chosen Saint Valentine’s Day for the celebration of this new feast. So it seems that the custom of young men choosing maidens for valentines, or saints as patrons for the com- ~year, arose in this way. ..... ~, www.ozarksstar.com JoNin Gay & Lesbian Center To Ho d VNentines Fundraiser JOPLIN, MO (P/R) __ In support of equal civil marriage for gays and lesbians and "Freedom To Marry Week", the Joplin Gay and Lesbian Center invites the GLBT community to a Valentines reception and dance February 14th, 2008 7:00 pm to 1:30 am. The event will be held at Groove Lounge, 2331 East 7th Street in Joplin. Dance to the music of the house DJ, enjoy a Wedding Cake and cash bar. A $5.00 donation per person at the door will go to support the Joplin Gay and Lesbian Center. For more information contact Director Lee McDaniel 417-622-7821 or email gaylesbiancenter@gmail.com Website www.mYspace.com/gaylesbiancenter Recognized by Keller Williams ,- For outstanding achievement 2005 and 2006 Chuck Breckenridge 918-706-1887 REALIOr~ V/hether buying or selling I’ll work hardforyou. the STAR 5 Acceptance o£GAYS and LESBIANS In addition to loosing weight is he getting a homo-friendly face-lift? OKLAHO/vlA CITY, OK __ Oklahoma City Mayor Cornett proclaims an official day for Ellen DeGeneres’s birthday and this is coming from a man who previously never meet a gay man or woman he liked. Well, I have a bridge in Brooklyn, too. \Vhen it’s Cornett’s political agenda being advanced then he’s comfortable ~vith appearing on the famous lesbian Ellen DeGeneres’s TV show as he did on January !7th. Could his self-serving appearance also have anything to do with the National Conference of Mayors having their 2010 annual meeting in OKC? Is he trying to get a homo-friendly face-lift as well as lose weight in order to make himself more attractive for re-election? Did his failed attempt at running for Congress show him the error of his ways or just point him to another snake-oil strategy? Now, in order to show that Mayor Cornett is exercising all his Christian sincerity of turning the other cheek, will he propose a human rights commission with legal force that can be approved by the City Council so that cases of gay/lesbian harassment and discrimination can be handled with respect and the intention of making life better for all of OKC’s taxpaying citizens? I’m not a Christian and I’ve turned both of my cheeks, upper and lower, for the last time to self-serving politicians who use gay people for their own ends and then dispose of them like a fast food clam shell. Just How Vulgar W- ll a Desperate Candidate Get? OKLAHOMA CITY, OK __ Not wanting to get too explicit about basic human sexual techniques, I can’t help notice that so much of human disagreement at a low level of public conversation comes down to either analogous or physical illustrations of body penetration in a sexual context. We’ve seen with Mike Huckabee, a man who wants to lead one of the most powerful countries in the world, that he’s willing to stoop to a tow level of vernacular public language in order to attract the flat-earth variety of voter who believes in a geo-centric 6,000 year-old earth. His remarks about putting a flag pole where the sun doesn’t shine regarding the South Carolina Confederate flag controversy is one example. The instance of Huckabee’s rallying mantras is a perfect example that he, suffused with the self-reflecting love of his self-constructed Jay-sus, is not immune, rather he uses it ki~owingly to inflame his redneck followers to greater heights of cooperation in their own submission to the destructive force of religion. Yes, human power can operate at the lowest level of human respect for those ,vho disagree with us and the fastest way to connect with many people is to graphically use the example of rape towards the perceived enemy. A frustrated Vice-president Dick Cheney used the same tactic in referring to Senator Patrick Leahy with a vulgar act of self-stimulation in the Senate chamber. Just as violent rape ofwomen by men is described as an attempt at power, with nothing to do with lust, so is the use of sexual penetration by antagonists used to inculcate their ideas of power and superiority at the basest level of human society. A thinking voter should reject such a candidate immediately. 6 the STAR ~wv.ozarksstar.com AskAbout Our Suites WV~N.ozarksstar.com the STAR 7 ince 1982 Ms. Kris Kohl in the "Painted Ladies" Show Friday, February’ 15th & 29th, @lOpm. Cover charge $5.00 single, $8.00 per Couple. Mention this ad and receive 1 FREE drink coupon per room. t 7 West 7th Street 8 the STAR & Boulder Ave) ® Tulsa, Ok 74119 e plazatulsa.€om www.ozarksstar.com byJoeyDe TULSA, OK __ Playing dress up may be child’s play, but for the Royal Green Country Barony ofAll of Oklahoma, it is a welcomed break to hours of hard work. A member of the International Imperial Court System, the RGCBAO is a philanthropic organization with a government system and titles inspired by Victorian alty. In an Adornment Ceremony at the Holiday Inn Select in Tulsa on Jan. 12, the RGCBAO crowned their first Czar and Czarina, Phillip Parker and Kris Cherri Kohl (respectively). A non-partisan organization, the Royal Green Country Barony of All Oklahoma seeks to further the mission of the International Court System by uniting not only the gay community, but the entire community of Oklahoma, gay and straight, regardless of ethnicity or other discriminating factors. ~he barony works to raise funds for charitable causes and work for equality within the realm it covers. To begin the evening, Nicole the Great, Queen Mother of the Americas, welcomed Oklahoma into the international family and described what they had "gotten themselves into." "You see all this (pageantry) and wonder about it, remember it’s all in camp. We may call each other Barons and Baronesses, but we are all equals," began the matriarch, who explained the organization’s pre- Stonewall San Francisco founding. She described the court system as one of the oldest and largest organizations in GLBT history. "When a gay man, Jose, declared that he wanted to be called an ’Empress’ after being crowned the queen of the Tavern Guild’s drag ball, he didn’t know what he started at the time." Through out the course of the evening, many other individuals who contributed to the founding of the RGCBAO were recognized, as well as those who have assumed leadership positions in the organization. This included the Privy Counsel (Board of Directors) comprised of Deb Starnes, Jim Ray, Scot Brown, Marc Acuff, and Photo Above: Czar IPhillip Parker & Czarina I Kris Cherri Kohl Lynn Whitley. Additionally was the Crown Grand Marquis Roger Francis and Crown Grand Marquesa Dominique La Rue. Also acclaimed as a key founder was Christian Cherri O’Donely Vaughn LaFleur Dior. Entertainment for the evening was provided by entertainers from across Oklahoma and beyond, q-his included the cast of "Twisted Theatre," Tim Conroy, Catia Lee Love, Empress The Lovely Suzanne, Empress Syren Vaughn, Empress Victoria Weston, Matthew Heath Fitzgerald, Tabitha Taylor, Rebbeca Tucker and Leonard Jenkins. Through all the dresses and crowns, the evening assumed a sense of decorum, but through the words of those on stage, it maintained a level of fun and frivolity that turned it into a true celebration. By the end of the evening, the Royal Green Country Barony of Oklahoma had demonstrated that they knew how to have a good time, but had made it clear they were ready to begin the hard work of providing leadership to and creating unity among the citizens of their relm. w~v.ozarksstar.com the STAR 9 By Donald Pile and Pray Williams " Surrounded by Insanity" by Robert A. Hofmann We have just read a new book, "Surrounded by Insanity" by Robert A. Hofmann and it is one of those books that once you begin reading it, you won’t want to put it down until you have completely finished. It is absolutely hilarious! It is a biographical story of the author’s experiences thru his life with his early childhood and growing up with friends and family. Robert grew up in New Jersey and what a wild and crazy and wonderful life he has had. Between his family and his friends, he guides the reader thru many exciting episodes of his life. It is wickedly bitchy and hilarious! Everyone in Robert’s life so far is a participant in this wonderfully funny and provocative story of his life. It begins with his birth and goes thru two years ago when he was staying at the wonderful Grand Resort in Ft. Lauderdale when Hurricane Wilma hit in 2006 leaving everybody without power for several days. q-his is a "must read" for gay men all over the country. You will laugh at nearly every page! Robert knows exacdy what his readers want to hear and he writes in such a great way. He writes openly what many of us say behind our backs. One of our favorite parts of the book is when he talks about "prespeaking", as in, "Dinner. That is where we should go" and "Glad for you! That is what I am." Days after reading this, we are still catching ourselves "prespeaking". Hopefully we and our friends will get tired of it eventually but it is fun for a while. We don’t know if his family and friends are still speaking to him or not but they should be happy that he loves them so much that he can be so open and flank about them. He would indeed be a good friend of have. Hopefully we will get to meet him sometime in the near future. He left some extra copies of his book at the Grand Resort for guests to read and everyone can’t wait to get their hands on his book. We promise that you will laugh your head off:page after page after page. "Surrounded by Insanity" is published by Publish America and may be purchased through all major bookstores (if they don’t have it in stock, they’ll order it for you) or from www.amazon.com or www.publishamerica. com. We didn’t ~vant the book to end but thankfully, Robert is already in the process of coming out with his second book. As Robert says, " I live in fabulous, flaming, freakin" New Jersey. Woo-hoo. I am an attorney by day, writer by evening, superhero in the bedroom." Just keep up the great writing Robert! CLUB MAJESTIC TULSA TO HOST MR. OKLAHOMA CONTINENTAL 2008 PAGEANT By Greg Steele TULSA, OK __ Hot bodies and great talent will be the main course at Club Majestic Friday February 15th at 9pro. The show will feature an all male contest with guest entertainment from across the country. The feature entertainer will be Rasean Montrese Mr. Continental Nationals 2007 and hosted by Danielle Hunter Miss Continental Elite Nationals 2007. In addition to the contestant line up an impressive array of talent will be on stage to make your Friday Night at Club Majestic an evening to remember. Mr. Oklahoma 2007 Sevion Simpson, Mr. 2006 Nationals Simba Hall, Miss Oklahoma Continental 2007 Adrianna and introducing Mr. 2005 Nationals Tony DeSario. Club Majestic is located at 124 N. Boston in the Brady Arts District. 2-he latest on Britney Spears is that she is in training to become a high profile lesbian, being coached by famous lesbian convert Ellen DeGeneres. DeGeneres told the website www.thespoof.com "Britney is making great progress. I have every confidence she will make an excellent lesbian in time" 10 the STAR www.ozarksstar,com essica Newman art e hibit at Dennis R. Neill Equality Center (TULSA, OK (P/R) __ "~e Dennis R. Neill Equality Center art gallery will host its monthly First Tnursday meet-the-artist reception from 6-9pm, "lhursday, February 7, 2008, for the opening of it’s February exhibit, featuring oil paintings and fine drawings by artist Jessica Newman. Newman, born in California in 1985, has been a resident ofTulsa since the age of 10. Jessica started drawing at a very young age, and really became involved in art during high school, when she took her first art class in the ninth grade. ~his is where she was introduced to a variety of art supplies, and began experimenting with different media. Since graduating high school in 2003, she has continued studying art in college, and plans on graduating as an art major. Jessica has always been fascinated by the human body, which is the theme of most of her work. She currently works with pencil, watercolors, and oil paints, but charcoal is her medium of choice. Her art has been shown at the Mayfest Youth Gallery, as well as at the Blue Dome Arts Festival. The exhibit will remain up through the month of February, and can be viewed Monday thru Saturday from 3-gpm. The Dennis R. Neill Equality Center is located at 621 E. 4th St., in downtown Tulsa. More info can be found on the web at okeq.org. This monthly event is hosted by Oklahoman’s for Equality (OkEq). OkEq seeks equal rightsfor Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender (LGBT) individuals and families through advocacy, education, programs, alliances, and the operation of the Dennis R. Neill Equality Cente~ www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 11 SIDE De~ Inside ;~otlywoo4 rqo~ on n~wprojectsfor PaulRuddand Nathan ~ane. Nathan Lane Casts Swing Vote Hds acting up a storm on Broa&vay right now with Laurie Met~f in the new D~vid Mamet play, November, but stage fixture Nathan Mewill be back on the big screen this new year, too, with a role in the ensemble comedy Swing ~v~te. Starring Kevin Cosmer ~ a low-achieving, apolitic~l American citizen, tl~ movie concerns a presidentia! election that hinges entirely on Cosmer’s not-entirelywelMnformed vote and the n~tional ch~os that results from it. L~ne will co-star, along with Definis Hopper, Stanley Tucci, Kelsey Grammer, George Lopez, Mare Winningham, *~Vi!lie Nelson, and politiCal comment~)or A~ianna Hut~ngton ~s herse!£ Already wrapp~[, the film - if audiences vote for it v~ith their ticket dollars - could find itselfincieasing poll turnoutsSBut not likely, Paul Rudd You, Man ~rotagonists express- - signal the beginning t ofheterosexual male intimacy? movie, I love by Judd Apatow (v¢hose willingness to "go in films like The Obiect of " " well documented), the best he considers close enough to fill. as the poor spring, here’s t Larry: Like ransamerican Love ready for Transamerican Love a 36-year-old ~ with an Girl). Addams will ~ of men competing to date her formerly male body. Contrast About Miriam, on which told about Miriam’s transgender a bold step for the reality televicomic Alec Mapa wilt host the show by gay cable channel Logo. The in 2008. 12 the STAR www.ozarksstar, corn DEEP INSXDE HOLLYWOOD Choosing America’s Prom Q een For further evidence that pop culture is now dominated by entertainment designed for the High School Musical demographic, !ook no further than Americas Pro Queen. ABC Family has given the go-ahead for the new series that will pit a group of high school-aged young women against each other in the quest to be the fairest prom queen of them all. The contestants will reside in a mansion and compete in challenges that will show if they’ve got what it takes to wear a tiara in public and vcave at less popular people; then they’ll stay or go based on viewer votes. But Romeo has one complaint: in an era when young men are routinely making the news after being voted prom queen at their school, why no boys allowed? Lesbian Musician Julie Schurr to Perform in Eureka Springs, Fayetteville and New Orleans. Romeo San Vicente - while in high school, mindyou - wa~" very popular with his share ofpmm kings. He can be reached care ofthis publication or at DeepInsideHollywood@qsyndicate.com. Regional MCC CMr&es Perform An Act ©fKin&ess In Tulsa JOPLIN, MO G/R) __ MCC United in Tulsa, OK was visited by Diva’s xvith Chain Saws as members of MCC of the Living Springs, Eureka Sprh~gs, AR and Spirit of Christ MCC; Joplin, MO arrived Saturday morning the 12th of January ready to work. MCC United has been dealing with damage on their property since an early, December ice storm devastated the area. There were still damaged trees that needed to be reduced to manageable size and trees that were potentially dangerous if not removed. Together with members of MCC United and their Pastor, Rev Carolyn Mobley the three churches xvere able to make short work of the remaining damage control and clean-up. Spirit of Christ MCC literally closed their doors and moved their worship to a program Rev Steve ca~s: "Faith in Action." "We are an oddity in MCC Churches in that we xvorship on Saturday mornings. As it is, we are ~knoxvn to replace worsNp with taking on Acts of Random Kindness to show what we believe is primary for us. As Christ served all people in need.., so should xve." Rev. Urie also pastors MCC of the Living Spring in Eureka Springs, AR and when he shared the needs he immediately received e-mails saying xve are going with you." We were totally blessed inasmuch as we had four chain saxvs in action, limbs fal~ng and people picking up the grounds with no injuries and everyone home safely. The group was blessed with a xvonderful lunch provided by MCC United and a musical Thank You provided in song by Rev. Carolyn. Across Regional boundaries and State Lines xve can all work together serving God by serving each other. EUREKA SPRINGS, AR __ Growing up, Julie Schurr never heard music that might have made life a little bit easier for a lesbian girl being raised in the strictly-proscribed constraints of a religiously conservative community and home. In fact, she wasn’t supposed to be listening to music at all. She wasn’t supposed to know what a lesbian was. Let alone BE one. An original creation, Julie Schurr’s fusion of musical styling and technique is all her own: Indierockbitchfolk. She’s been showcasing it to her fans in St. Imuis and Detroit, winning loyal converts. Now that she’s finished her degree & produced a full-length album, she just can’t imagine any other career path. So it’s a good thing that album sales are steadily rising and venues keep opening their doors. Julie will be out on tour and finishing up her 2nd album, which is planned for release in early 2008. Julie Schurr has headlined Pride and Coming Out day celebrations around the country and has been featured on Curvemag.com and in the Advocate. Her two hour performance will include acoustic music from her current album as well as her unique style of audience participation and comedy. Show tour locations listed below. Eureka Springs, Arkansas Baton Rouge, Louisiana Feb 9 2008 10:00P Feb 15 2008 8:00P Lumberyard Bar and Grille Hound Dog’s - Time TBA Fayetteville, Arkansas Feb 10 2008 8:30P Common Grounds New Orleans, Louisiana Feb 16 2008 9:30P Station 8801 More information on Julie can be found online at: www.julieschurr. corn or www.myspace.com/julieschurr. www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 13 by Liz Highleyraan Past Out, which 100"ks at the life of South l frican gay activist Simon Nk01i, W-ho was Simon Nko li ? Soweto student uprising in the summer of 1976, he joined the Congress of South African Students (COSAS), the ~AaCrican National Congress (ANC), and the United Democratic Front (UDF). Fellow COSAS members debated removing him from his position of regional secretary when his sexual orientation became known, but a large majority ultimately voted in his favor. Long a~vare of his same-sex attractions, Nkoli began his first serious relationship at age 19, with a white bus driver. After Nkoli revealed this to his mother, she sent him to a series of local healers, a Christian priest, and finally a psychologist, who turned out to be gay himself and advised the lovers to live together - even if Nkoli had to pose as his partner’s servant to evade racial segregation laws. stance led the International Lesbian and Gay Association (ILGA) to suspend GASA for its failure to condemn apartheid, and the latter group soon collapsed. After his release, Nkoli co-founded the Gay and Lesbian Organization of the \vgitwatersrand - the country’s first genuinely integrated GLBT organization - and later the National Coalition for Gay and Lesbian Equality (now the Lesbian and Gay Equality Project). "I am black and I am gay," he proclaimed at the first South African Pride march in 1990. "I cannot separate the two parts ofme into secondary or primary struggle. They will be all one struggle." Nkoli traveled widely speaking about the situation in his country, served as an ILGA board member representing Africa, and earned numerous honors for his work. hrough his dedication and courage, black gay antiapartheid activist Simon Tseko Nkoli played a key role in the fight for GLBT liberation and human rights for people with HIV/AIDS in South Africa. Nkoli was born in Soweto in November 1957. He spent part of his childhood living with his grandparents, tenant farmers on a white estate, before moving to Sebokeng township to join his mother and stepfather. Nkoli became an anti-apartheid activist at a young age. After multiple arrests for civil disobedience, including participation in the 14 the STAR In his early 20s, after coming out in an interview with a black newspaper, Nkoli joined the newly formed Gay Association of South Africa (GASA), which consisted mostly of middle-class white men. Resolutely apolitical, the group resisted Nkoli’s requests to hold social events at nonsegregated venues, leading him to form the Saturday Group, the country’s first black gay organization, in 1984. Around the same time, amid growing racial discord, Nkoli stepped up his anti-apartheid activism, helping organize a tenant rent strike in the town of Delmas. Charged with killing a man by throwing a rock during a protest, Nkoli was arrested, tortured, and imprisoned. Along with 21 other black activist leaders, he was tried in 1986 for the capital crimes of subversion, conspiracy, and treason. While in prison awaiting trial, Nkoli revealed his homosexuality to his co-defendants - ANC and UDF members who would later hold high-level positions in the post-apartheid government - and they came to respect and support him as a gay man. "This country wilt never protect the rights of its gay and lesbian citizens unless we stand up and fight - even when it makes us unpopular with our own comrades," he later wrote. Nkoli came out more publicly during the trial, when he used his attendance at a GASA meeting as an alibi to counter claims that he had been present at a clandestine political meeting. In 1988, the charges against him were dropped and he was released. During his imprisonment, Nkoli became a cause celebre for gay rights activists around the world, but he received minimal support from the accomodationist GASA. This Nkoli’s anti-apartheid activism and ties with movement leaders proved instrumental in winning the ANC’s support for gay rights. In 1994, he met with Nelson Mandela, whose election as president marked the end of the apartheid era. As the newly integrated country crafted its constitution, Nkoli lobbied for sexual orientation to be included in its anti-discrimination provisions, and also argued for repeal of sodomy laws. In 1996, South Africa became the first country to include explicit constitutional protection for GLBT people. A decade later, in fulfillment of a court mandate based on the constitution, the South African parliament legalized same-sex marriage. Yet even as the gay movement gained strength and the apartheid regime crumbled, the AIDS epidemic reached crisis proportions in the 1990s, reintensifying racism and homophobia. Having been diagnosed with HIV himself (likely contracted in prison), Nkoli turned his focus to AIDS activism, co-founding groups including the Positive African Men’s Project and the Township AIDS Project. As the decade wore on, Nkoli experienced increasing bouts of ill health; he died of an AiDS-related infection on November 30, 1998, in the company of his long-time partner, Roderick Sharp. Though Nkoli himself was not able to benefit from effective new HIV drugs, his work for universal treatment access inspired fellow gay and anti-apartheid activist Zackie Achmat to form the Treatment Action Campaign, which today is widely regarded as the strongest AIDS activist group in the world. www.ozarksstar.com DNC ELECTS R£CORD NUMBER OF LGBT MEMBERS TO 2008 DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CON NTION STANDING COMMITTEES Appointments Reflect Strength, Diversity and Energy ofDemocratic Party DENVER, CO (P/R) __ The Executive Committee of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) unanimously elected DNC Chairman Howard Dean’s nominations for the Chairs and members of the 2008 Democratic National Convention Standing Committees, including a record number of openly LGBT members. Dean’s LGBT appointments include Dr. Marjorie Hill of the Gay Men’s Health Crisis organization in New York, Diego Sanchez from AIDS Action Committee of Massachusetts, State Representative Patricia Todd ofAlabama, and Ingrid Duran ofVirginia to serve on the Platform Committee, along with Claire Lucas and Evan Low of California to the Rules Committee and Bob Rogan of Vermont to the Credentials Committee. In addition to appointing a record number of LGBT standing committee members, Dean was also the first DNC chair to appoint a member of the transgender community to a Convention committee. The Standing Committees of the Convention are responsible for reviewing Convention business and formulating recommendations for consideration by Convention delegates. The Executive Committee’s vote took place during the panel’s recent meeting in Denver, site of the four-day Convention in August. "The record turnout and enthusiasm we’ve seen for our Democratic candidates is a clear sign that Americans trust Democrats to bring much needed change to our country," said Governor Dean. "These outstanding leaders reflect the great strength, diversity and energy of the Democratic Party, and I’m confident their efforts will ensure our Convention in Denver is reflective of our shared values and our nominee’s vision for America." The elections included the Chairs and 25 Party Leader and Elected Official (PLEO) members of the three Convention Standing Committees: Credentials, Platform and Rules. Each committee has a total of 186 members. An additional 161 members elected by each of the states’ and territories’ Convention delegations wil! join Governor Dean’s appointments to the committees later this spring. For a full list of and biographical information on the Chairs and PLEO members from each Standing Committee, visit http:llwww.demconvention.comlalstandingcommittees. pdf. Credentials Committee The Credentials Committee is charged with coordinating issues around the selection of delegates and alternates to the Convention and will likely meet in the summer. The committee will issue a report that is the first official item of business at the Convention. Platform Committee The Platform Committee is responsible for drafting and recommending a proposed National Platform for approval at the Convention. After conducting hearings and forums to collect testimony on issues and policies to potentially include in the platform, the committee is likely to meet sometime in July. Rttles Committee The Rules Committee is responsible for proposing the Permanent Rules for the Convention, adopting the proposed Convention agenda and making recommendations for permanent Convention officers - all addressed as the second official item of business at the Convention. The committee will meet sometime in August, prior to the Convention. Huckabee ir ks gay sex to bestiality, abortion to slavery WASHINGTON (AFP) -- Republican presidential hopeful and former Baptist pastor Mike Huckabee linked gay sex to bestiality and abortion to slavery in an interview Thursday, explaining why, if elected, he would try to amend the constitution. "Marriage has ... as long as there’s been human history, meant a man and a woman in a relationship for life. Once we change that definition, then where does it go from there?" he asked in an interview with online "Beliefnet" magazine. "Well, I don’t think that’s a radical view, to say we’re going to affirm marriage. I think the radical view is to say that we’re going to change the definition of marriage so that it can mean two men, two women, a man and three women, a man and a child, a man and animal," he added. "The Bible was not written to be amended. The Constitution was," he said, announcing his intention to amend the document if he were to be elected president in November to ban abortion and establish that life begins at the moment of conception. Leaving it up to individual states to outlaw abortion within their own borders is not enough, he said. "That’s again the logic of the Civil War -- that slavery could be okay in Georgia but not okay in Massachusetts. Obviously we’d today say, ’Well, that’s nonsense. Slavery is wrong, period. It can’t be right somewhere and wrong somewhere else.’ Same with abortion," Huckabee said. Huckabee won the Iowa Republican caucuses earlier this month, the first contest in the race for each party’s nomination to run for the White House. He is in second place behind Arizona Senator John McCain in opinion polls for Saturday’s primaries in South Carolina. www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 15 Brief history Cabernet Sauvignon, like all noble wine grape varieties, is of the species VitiS ~inifera, and genetic studies in 1997 indicated it is the result of a cross between Cabemet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. Cabernet Sauvignon is most directly associated with the wines of Bdrdeaux~ and especially those of its Left Ba~k, which ncludes the top tier appellations of St.-Estephe, Pauillac, St.-Julien; and Margaux, among others. It makes Up the majority portion of the blends of all of the Grand Cru wines of the 1855 classification. In Bordeaux, blending is comm0n With ! !e other allowable varietals: Merlot, cabe~ et Franc, Pettlt Verdot, and Malbec. Cabal ~et Sauvignon is also cultivated in other ~i~i as in France, notably LanguedocTRousillor and has great acclaim the wodd Over. .... California is after BOrdeaux as the wodd’s largest grower of Cabemet Sauvignon. This grape is found mostly in the Napa Valley and Sonoma County. In Calif6mi~, the area of Cabemet Sauvignon planting doubled in the 1990s. As in Bordeaux, it is often blended with Franc to produce wo ton, " ’ the lower Yakima Valley. In late 2006, the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology published the result of studies conducted at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine that showed the beneficial relationship of Cabernet Sauvignon in reducing the dsk factors associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The stud trol, a compound found reduce levels of amyloid beta pe-t des which attack brain ce Is an.... At heady $10 a bottlel ddnks like a cab twice p. , ,, ...... u, ~.~ the coSL Thi~ Cabernet presents itse f with a par[ or wna[ causes Alzne~mer s. in snort nose Of bourbon-soake~ Cherries with a finish of wewine enthusiasts can enjoy drinking to chbcotate and Cedar. our good health. ........... Magnificen~Wine COmpany House Wine Columvar e a ol s nc on bia ~/alley 05 wwwlMagnificentVVine,com Cabemet Sauvignon has a well defined ~rnrn~a In Old ~J~rld wine~ n~rficularlv Cabemet Sauvignon 54% Medot 30% Syrah those made n Bordeaux th s s charac- 11Yo, Mabec3% Franc2~{~ ¯ Grea" ble - - f -- " "" ~ d t -eat I ~ naana or~nepnce [’snar oD . tensed by a smel of blackcurrant, cedar ’ and spice. New Wodd wines of this grape Cono Sur Cab/Carmenere Chile ’06 are more often dominated by aromas of v~zw.ConoSur.com ~ oak, pepper and earth. smell of This organic wine offers a robust, fruit- filled m wines made in nose of raspberry & plum most character- The palate reveals a flaVorfu nutty taste and rm-climate examples is has a long finish. rings of t wine. ~ne. Cabs ~eese5 s Dadoush Duet Napa ’04 ~.dadoush.com A blend of Cabemet and Shiraz Enticing aromas of blackberry with a coffee bean and a finish Of nutmeg & white pepper best descdbe this wine, Irony Cabernet Napa ’03 w~w.lronyWine.€om This is a b0ld and complex wine, which reflects the melding Of ~nique ~haractedstics from pdme vineyards in Sever&l different Napa appellations. Tobacco Cocoa and bright red berry characters make this a red wine to ~njoy. And as always, I say go to your favodte wine shop, ask qdestion~ and p~rchase a bottle or two. Share Some food & wine with friends and check it out for yourself. Complex aromas from hazelnut finish. cassis clove/ Mr. D als0 hosts wine & food events as the Wine Enthusiasts of Tulsa, the BTAR :~ww.ozarksstar.com by Donald Pile and Ray CITyo In our travels to both the East Coast and the West Coast everyone alwa:ys asks the same question to us. V?here ro par.ry in the Midwest? we a!ways tell them the best two places to part? areTuAsa and Oklahoma City. It is hard for most people on both coast to believe, but unless you have been there you certainly wit! not believe that in the Bible belt ofOHahoma is this fabulous gay mecca. month we told you about Tulsa and this month we ~2e telling you about Oklahon~a City. We have been going to Oklahoma City to party for over 25 veals. "Ihe HABAN~ INN Resort has been a gay resort for over 25 years. It is the Midwest’s largest at! gay resort. A two story complex with ov& 175 rooms, most ofwhich tS_ce one of the two swimming pools. The rooms are spacious and vmT inexpensive. It is a totally gay resort. Lush tropical plants and trees surround the poo! areas. Gays fron-t all over the midwest as well as both coasts have been going there for years, and it is busy 7 days a week, not juston weekends. Lounge around the pool area and you are sure ~o meet that "someone specia!". They are located 2200 NW 39rh Expressway and their toll free number is 1.800.988.2221. Within a block of the Habana Inn resort you wilt find about 4 more gay bars c~tering to different tastes. A major grocery store is just one block away as are several other restaurants. A cab ride from the akport costs less one blo& west of the intersection of Penn and interstate 1-44 and is easy to find. Within the resort complex they have a wonderful restaurant than $20.00. The ......i fi d HABANA INN Gushers whmh has a great ambiance and serves dehc ous oo , and is reasonable priced. "Itae restaurant overlooks one of the pod resort is located areas so you cim enjoy the bovs frolicking in the pool as you are dining. They also offe~ sandwich~s, soups, salads, pastas and appetizers, add a breakfast menu is available on weekends. There are three bars in the Habana Inn complex which are completely different. COPA is a dance, disco and drag bar. WeeNy they have male dancers, drag shows and comedians. FINISHLtNE Plus. there are is a c0untrylwestern bar with plenty of countiT dancing. ~t~is is the a lot of siOits to place to se~ the real cowboys and cowgirls in action. THE LEDO is see in Oklahoma ~ quiet piano bar. All the bartenders are super friendly and they all City, The Cowboy kn~w h~w to make out of towners feel right at home. The owner of Hail of Fame has the bars and restaurant is to be commended for his outstanding job artifacts ,~ ! ’ ! , i, i [ ¯ . !otsofoil the west is do things like this. Just a couple doors away from the Habana Inn is ANGLES ar 21 t7 N.\V. 39th St.. Their website is: w~,~w.anglesclub. For more ~ corn habanainn.com and Also in the resort is J UNGLE RED, an adult gift shop with magazines, videos, cards, gifts, leather, Pride items plus a lot of decorative items for the home. ma’s Gay Website: ww~.ozarksstar.com ?dways remember to have fun when ratk to everyone! 18 the STAR by Donald Pile and Ray Williams ONLY sto ger-a-way~ check i~ out the Inn at 410, w~:410.com have the most um~sua! and exciting, and B. ~eit rooms world! The Vi!lag~ St. and you just cannot Steve owns the Gaslight a long And in Palm Metwn’s Restaurant, ~vw.inglesideinn.com www.ozarkssiar.com some ju~st simply pe~ection t00% of pecial "TI~KS" ’!egance in dining. dodt skimp on gets around and emails from our readers asking if ALWAYS have a about~ m be one that we have ever seen! ’gqth ~a Wetl as travelers all time however. A the closest gay" t this a used condom under the ....Con~ued page 23 broken 4 they also seem to be the STAR 19 Downtown Savannah) historic district is abundant withfine shops and restaurants, including the innovative Sapphire Grill, one ofthe city’s top eateries. (P,6oto by Andrew Collins) Georgi After years of lagging behind nearby Charleston in popularity, historic Savannah soared to new heights in the ’90s and remains one of the nation’s hottest destinations. Much of the city’s renaissance had do to with the staggering popularity ofJohn Berendt’s best-seller, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, whose droll yet salacious account of Savannah society propelled the city into a gay hotspot almost overnight. The jewel of Georgia’s lazily enchanting seacoast, Savannah was founded in 1733 by British General James Oglethorpe, who designed the perfect grid of streets and grassy tree-shaded squares for which this city of 130,000 is still famous. Savannah prospered as a silk exporter during its first century, before developing into one of the world’s major cotton suppliers. Much of downtown consists of elaborate brick and stucco Victorian buildings built following an 1820 fire that destroyed many of the city’s beautiful wood-frame Colonial homes. Had General Sherman not spared Savannah during his notorious and destructive "March to the Sea," most of these Victorian structures would also have been burned. Begin your explorations of the city inside the restored 1860s rail terminal that houses both the Savannah Visitor Information Center and the Savannah History Museum. This complex is at the southwestern edge of historic downtown. From here it’s a short walk north to City Market, a three-block pedestrian mall with a handful of gay-friendly shops and restaurants. Downtown Savannah’s shopping scene continues to evolve from traditional to fashion-forward - a Marc by Marc Jacobs flagship store opened here in April 2007, and many contemporary boutiques and art galleries now line the city’s oak-shaded streets. Near City Market, you’ll find the gay disco, Club One, which is the performing home ofThe Lady Chablis, who figured so prominently in The Book, as Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil is commonly referred to by locals. Plenty of folks come to Savannah to seek out the sites that were brought to life in this mesmerizing tale (although it is nonfiction, The Book reads like a delicious novel). Ofpartictflar note is the privately owned Mercer House, in which Midnight’s central figure, antiques dealer Jim Williams, shot and killed his young lover, Danny Hansford, in 1981 (the question of whether Williams fired in self-defense or as a calculated act of murder is debated to this day). Its literary fame - or notoriety - notwithstanding, Savannah still rivals any Southern destination for its bedazzled and meticulously restored house museums. Ifyou have time for only one, visit the Owens-Thomas House, a splendid 1819 Regency mansion built by renowned British architect William Jay. Nearby is the Isaiah Davenport House, an 1815 Federal beauty. To see a fine collection of classical sculpture and Impressionist painting, visit the Telfair Mansion and Art Museum, a memorable 1818 structure in its own right. In 2006, the museum expanded with the construction of the striking newJepson Center for the Arts, which added more galleries and exhibition space. At the north end of the historic district, the city’s riverfront is lined with a stately row of restored cotton warehouses - now containing a slew of touristy businesses - and a cobbled lane that’s sits a full flight of steps below the rest of the city. The best time to appreciate it and the views of the bridge and freighters chugging along the Savannah River is in the morning, when you’ll encounter few crowds. One great way to explore downtown and get some advice on the local gay scene is to take a guided walk with knowledgeable local Jonathan Stalcup, who runs Architectural Tours of Savannah. For dining, avoid most of the mediocre eateries by the river and stick to one of the several local favorites, virtually all of them gayfriendly. One of the most famous restaurants in the South, Elizabeth on 37th specializes in subtly sublime regional cooking, 20 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com such as sesame-almond-crusted grouper with peanut sauce; and grilled rack of lamb with corn pudding, stewed okra, and tomatoes. Sexy and sophisticated Sapphire Grill serves some exciting and innovative contemporary American fare - consider the jumbo lump crab cake ,vith lemon curd, green-zebra tomatoes, and red chard. A bit more affordable, chic It Pasticcio presents contempora~7 Northern Italian cuisine - try the grilled gorgonzola-crusted filet mignon with a potato-pancetta gratin. Olde Pink House is one of those Savannah traditions that everybody should experience at least once - fine Continental fare with regional twists, like black grouper stuffed xvith blue crab and a Vidalia onion sauce, is served. Garibaldi’s, in an 1870s firehouse, prepares simple but very good Italian fare, such as pesto shrimp with angel hair pasta. For either lunch or dinner, the trendy City Market Cafe is a dependable choice, serving delicious wild mushroom, blue cheese, and prosciutto salad, as well as terrific thin-crust pizzas. It’s touristy, but fans of Food Network TV star Paula Deen won’t want to pass up a chance to dine at her downtown Savannah restaurant, ~lhe Lady & Sons, known for its down-home Southern cuisine. An elegant basement space with a youthful, see-and-be-seen following, Jazz’d Tapas Bar is perfect for late-night snacking - recommended fare include potato-leek frittata with fig chutney, and citrus-ginger- glazed shrimp-and-scallops skewers. ~he lesbian-owned Firefly Cafe serves affordable American fare, including plenty of fresh veggie dishes. ~l-his dapper spot overlooks Troup Square and is especially popular for brunch (try the Savannah eggs Benedict topped with fresh crab meat). For post-club noshing, check out Sushi Zen, a hip and gay-popular Asian restaurant with a convivial vibe. ~he bar staff and regulars in Savannah’s bars are friendly and forward. Although some locals shun the touristy and cavernous Club One, it’s one of the most impressive clubs in the Southeast, and it can be fun when ~lhe Lady Chablis is performing. Other options include Chuck’s, a friendly locals joint near the river that draws a mixed bunch; and Blaine’s Back Door Bar, a casual cruise and dance lounge that also has a dell serving pretty tasty sandwiches and pizza. Not gay per se, Venus de Milo is a sexy and sophisticated wine bar with a welcoming, bohemian vibe - it’s just west of City Market. Down along the riverfront, gay-friendly Kevin Barry’s Irish Pub is popular early in the evening for Irish music, food, and drink. With the recent rise in gay tourism, Savannah’s grand old hotels have become increasingly hospitable to visiting same-sex couples. Among the city’s many classic luxury inns, the Ballastone Inn is renowned for its gracious hospitality and over-the-top, lavish rooms. The four-story 1838 mansion sits along one of the prettiest streets in the city. A mid-19th-century inn with an expansive landscaped courtyard, the Eliza Thompson House and its grand guest rooms look much as you might imagine they did when cotton was king of Savannah. Original heart-pine floors and period antiques impart a romantic ambience, and yet rooms have comfortable, modern amenities, especially the bathrooms. Rooms at the Foley House Inn contain antiques and Oriental rugs; many overlook Chippewa Square and have massive two-person Jacuzzis. Of affordable chain properties, the Comfort Suites Historic District is clean, pleasantly furnished, and a short walk from City Market. The only GLBT-exclusive B&B in Savannah, 912 Barnard is also one of the least expensive. This dramatic yellow turn-of-the-century house has been handsomely restored to its original splendor, with antiques and authentic colors that convey the ambience of the city. A fully restored 1889 sea captain’s house that once belonged to one of Savannah’s wealthiest merchants, the Azalea Inn is quite gay-friendly. All rooms are configured and decorated differently; and each has a gas fireplace; two have whirlpool tubs, and two have balconies. For the most memorable accommodations, however, look to the gay-friendly Mansion on Forsyth Park, which offers some of finest digs in town. This stylish mini-resort beside verdant Forsyth Park contains 126 rooms with smart, contemporary furnishings, plus a top-notch spa, a cooking school, two cool bars, an art gallery, and the highly regarded 700 Drayton Restaurant. Opened in 2005, the hotel offers further evidence of Savannah’s gradual shift from a bastion of Old South gentility to a beacon ofNew South panache and www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 21 TA-BOO’ RESTAURANT Palm Beach, Florida .[Ldocated on Worth Avenue in Palm Beach, Florida, TA-BOO’ is a real treat! Stretching four fabulous blocks from South Ocean Blvd. to Cocoanut Row on Palm Beach island, Worth Avenue is one of the world’s most exclusive shopping districts. q-he Avenue boasts a sumptuous mix of more than 200 world-famous specialty shops, posh department stores, gourmet restaurants and art galleries. It is like the Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, California. A coat and tie (or ascot) is of course necessary even at lunch time. TA-BOO’ has been in business for over 60 years. It has the classic ambiance of a private gentlemen’s club brightened by Palm Beach’s smart set, it atmosphere is both comfortable and busding all at the same time. Slowly spinning ceiling fans, tropical fishtail palms and leafy dangling porthos vines frame a mural of an ocean vita, complete with Miznetresque terra-cotta rooftops in the foreground. Down a terra-cotta pathway, the long bar is an Avenue tradition for a variety of patrons - from the burger and beer set to those with an affinity for a rack of lamb and a little Veuve Clicquot! A soothing marine aquarium illuminates the bar’s neighboring bistro. Their menu covers the basics, from comfort food to top-notch cuisine. If you’re dining for lunch, start with the sushi-quality carpaccio of tuna or try the ever-popular warm grilled chicken and pears salad. Dinner is all about Maine Lobster, white Dover sole meuniere, crispy roast mahogany duck and linguine with lump crab. Dessert is a MUST, partictflarly the signature "Ta-boo’ lust", a sinful concoction of coconut cream filling and whipped cream atop a walnut cookie crust. \re always dine there at least once when we are in Florida and it does just keep getting better everytime! Owners Franklyn DeMarco and Nancy Sharigan are regular hosts. You never know what famous celebrities you will be dining with. We particularly enjoy their Swordfish. Lunch is served from 11:30 AM to 5 PM and dinner is served from 5 PM to 10 PM weekdays and from 5 PM to 11 PM on Friday and Saturday. Sunday Brunch is served till 3 PM. They are located at 221 Worth Avenue and for reservations call: (561) 835-3500. strai= glass. Serve. 22 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com GAY TR_&VELERS: having a lot of financial problems as they at first were going to open mid-summer, then in the fall and now they don’t know if they will open or not. We booked an accommodation and in Denver a couple of years ago and when we got to the destination, we found that it was simply a condo unit with two bedrooms and the guy rented out one of the bedrooms! In South Dakota, we booked a reservation and when arriving, the owner gave up HIS bedroom for us and then he slept on the sofa! Sometimes restaurants can also be a complete disaster. From being dirty, to rude servers, to bad food and service, it can always be interesting to say the least. But ifyou are not happy with a restaurant..... LEAVE ! We have ~valked out of dozens of restaurants. If there is one problem, then usually a second problem develops and before you know it you are in a mess up to your ears, so why not just leave before it gets worse? The worst thing we hate to hear from a server, is "Don’t give me a hard time, I had a bad night last night". Who cares if the server had a bad night? They are there to "SERVE YOU" with a smile and with a professional attitude. We have at times paged the manager and requested that another server wait on us and we explain fully why. There are a lot of excellent servers in restaurants but we just simply won’t accept bad service. If the food you ordered is not good nor cooked properly, quietly and gently tell your server the problem. Bartenders can really be a pain in the ass sometimes. One bartender in Seattle doesn’t like to wait on people sitting at the bar. Rather, you have to go to his station, order and get your drinks and then return to your bar stoo!. How crazy is that? We have had bartenders that didn’t even know how to make a screwdriver! Most likely they didn’t know how to make a Bourbon and 7 either! Other bartenders are eating or smoking while trying to wait on you. We simply tell them that ~vhen they are thru eating or thru with their smoke break, then they can take our order. If a bartender is behind the bar and smoking and serving us, we explain exactly why we are not leaving a tip! Fortunately more and more states are becoming non-smoking and that takes care of the problems. Having said this, we have found that most bartenders are friendly, fun, wonderful and professional and our hats off to all of them! They enjoy what they are doing and make great tips. Websites can often be deceiving and indeed sometimes they are! \Vhenever possible and especially when booking accommodations, it is smart to check around to see ifyou kmow anybody that has actually stayed there. As far as restaurants or bars, it is easier to just walk out if there is a problem. You pay good money and you expect your money’s worth. Most accommodations, restaurants and bars are run very professional. Their staff is professional and courteous and friendly. Don’t you just love it when your traveling and everything goes smoothly? But once in a while it doesn’t and you have a choice to make........... either accept it or do something about it. And it is YOUR choice! Life is to short to settle on anything less than fabulous! Always remember to have fun when traveling, meet new people and talk to everyone! TRAVELING IN OUR FABULOUS WORLD is written by Donald Pile and Ray Williams, Award-winning Celebrity travel columnists who write for gay publications from Coast to Coast. Proud members of the IGLTA. You can email them at: gaytravelers@aol.com or visit their webpage at: http://www.hometown.aol. com/gaytravelers At least one overnight stay by a non-resident Rank Destination Percent who visited in the last 12 months 1 New York City, NY 16.0% 2 Las Vegas, NV 14.3% 3 San Francisco, CA 12.9% 4 Los Angeles/\Vest Hollywood, CA 11.9% 5 Ft. Lauderdale/Wilton Manors, FL 10.5% 6 Palm Springs, CA 10.1% 7 Chicago, IL 9.2% 8 San Diego, CA 8.8% 9 Washington, DC 8.6% 10 Miami/South Beach, FL (tie) 8.2% 10 Orlando, FL (tie) 8.2% "Community Marketing’s studies are unique in the tourism industry," McHugh said. "Other studies try to rank gay friendliness or popularity, but this study actually quantifies the bottom line: Where did gay and lesbian consumers go and spend their money?" Most-Visited International DestinationsRank Destination Percent who visited in the last 12 months 1 London 8.4% 2 Puerto Vallarta 7.6% 3 Paris 6.2% 4 Vancouver 6.1% 5 Montreal 5.9% 6 Toronto 5.6% 7 US Virgin Islands 5.1% 8 Cancun 5.0% 9 Puerto Rico 4.8% 10 Rome 4.7% Respondents indicated that they chose leisure destinations because friends recommended them, they offer unique attractions, and are known for their gay-friendliness. "Clearl),, when destinations show gay and lesbian visitors a good time, that is the best advertising investment they can make," said McHugh. "Word of mouth marketing is very powerful among the gay and lesbian community. It’s not enough to slap a rainbow on an ad and call it a day. The most successful destinations ~vork with their tourism and hospitality partners to earn that kind of loyalty and referral. This is accomplished through education, training, and offering a genuinely gay-welcoming social and political atmosphere." Ouotab e Quotes "Gayest Democratic convention ever? A record 16 percent of delegates to the Democratic National Committee’s platform committee for the Denver convention are LGBT", says Howard Dean. www.ozarksstar.com The STAR 23 By Ronald Blake Exercise can make you bigger, stronger, and faster. These are the obvious results from a fertile regimen of physical activity. There are other benefits from exercise that are sure to have the neighbors stand up and take notice. Exercise can stimulate new growth of neurons and even help you to keep the neurons that you possess. Neurons are those little things in your body that transport messages throughout your legs, arms, torso, and head. They are good to have around if you yearn to communicate and learn. This comes as good news to those of you who destroyed countless neurons in your previous existence as an irresponsible college student ~vith that degree in undecided. There is hope for you debaucherous mongrels and physical activity is certainly one answer. Faster reaction times can be attributed to exercise. You will be able to hit baseballs thrown at ninety-five miles per hour. You will be able to dodge bullets from Tony Soprano’s goombahs. You will be able to more effectively bob and weave through the one-two combination of Oscar DeLaHoya. You might even be able to negotiate better in traffic on the 666 Freeway on your route to work on Mondays. Can I get an "amen" to more effective reaction times due to running, walking, and double-dutching? Mental challenges become mere child’s play in response to the dashing good looks of Mr. Exercise. Yes, exercise has been known to unravel the mysteries of the universe. Even Albert Einstein was spotted riding bicycles and frolicking along the ocean during his sojourn on this planet. These physical exertions were rumored to have led to his great theories on relativity. You might just settle for solving the complexities of a Rubik’s cube or that set of instructions on putting your barbecue grill together. 26 the STAR Your memory can behold the effects of a good physical fitness program. There is a site in your brain called the hippo campus that can enlarge in mass and reap the goodness of jumping jacks and other means of physical activities. This enlargement of the hippo campus translates into better memory and possibly the ability to treat Alzheimer’s patients. ~aink of all the time you waste trying to recall where you placed your cell phone, keys, black socks, or W2 form from work. Start using that wasted time on exercise that will jump start that short-term memory compartment. Your mood can be positively impacted by the release of neurotrophins. These chemicals are released when you decide to participate in an active lifestyle. They rush into your system and make you feel happy and vivacious. Consider reaching for your roller blades instead of that sleeve of Girl Scout mints to turn that frown upside down the next time you are grumpy. Sunshine, lollipops, and rainbows everywhere will be your reward. Ifwe all reconvene in another five years, it is quite likely that ongoing research will show even more benefits of the brain and exercise combination. Keep sweating to the oldies with Richard Simmons and know that good things will always follow. A mind is a terrible thing to waste. This column is brought to you by that guy who prefers to frame a collage of one dollar bills instead of framing that replica of"Starry Night" from Michaels. That guy is Ron Blake and he can be reached www. goblakefitness.com. erupts in Auso Jesus 9 ay SYDNEY (AFP) -- Australian church leaders have condemned a play shortly to open in Sydney depicting Jesus as a gay man who is seduced by Judas, a report said Sunday. Xhe play, named Corpus Christi, is due to open next month as part of the city’s annual Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, Sydney’s Sun- Herald newspaper reported. A senior Sydney churchman called the play "historical nonsense". "It is deliberately, not innocently, offensive and they’re obviously having a laugh about it," Robert Forsyth, Anglican bishop of South Sydney, was quoted saying. Apart from the relations between Jesus and Judas, the play also features Jesus conducting a gay marriage between two apostles. The play’s director Leigh Rowney, who claims to be a Christian, accepted the play would offend some Christians but said he was keen to provoke debate about Christianity. "I wanted this play in the hands of a Christian person like myself to give it dignity but still open it up to answering questions about Christianity as a faith system," Rowney was quoted saying. Playwright Terrence McNally, who is gay, received death threats when the work was performed in the United States, the newspaper said. INTE ATIONAL GAY SC ENPLAY CONTEST- 10th ANNIVERSARY HOLLYWOOD, CA (PR) __ The ONE IN TEN SCREENPLAY CONTEST, a screenplay contest dedicated to the positive portrayal of gays, lesbians, bisexuals, trangender and queer individuals in film, celebrates it’s 10th anniversary in 2008. Entries are nmv being accepted online and are limited to the first 300 for 2008. Executive Director, David Jensen, "We are excited to celebrate our 10th anniversary and are looking at a record number of entries this year. We are continually amazed with the quality of talent that comes through the door year after year." Jensen continues, "\Ve receive entries from around the globe and Hollywood is taking notice in a very big way. Many of our past winners are now hard working screenwriters" The ONE IN TEN SCREENPLAY CONTEST has gained respect and notoriety from Hollywood studios, agents and producers. Entries for 2008 are being accepted online at: www.OnelnTenScreenplayContest.com Prizes for 2008 include cash, industry exposure and merchandise. The 2008 One In Ten Screenplay Contest is sponsored by: Cherub Productions, Final Draft Inc., scr(i)pt magazine, www.inktip.com, www. TopFilmFestivals.com, www.Screenplay- Contests.com and Jungle Software. The submission deadline for 2008 ONE IN TEN SCREENPLAY CONTEST is September 1, 2008. Entry forms are available online through the contest website: www.OnelnTenScreenplayContest.com. Entry forms may also be obtained through the mail by sending a self addressed stamped envelope to: CHERUB PRODUCTIONS One In Ten Screenplay Contest Post Office Box 540 Boulder, Colorado 80306 (303) 629-3072 www.screenplaycontests.com E-mai!: Cherubfilm@aol.com Community for People living with 50! c (~) Non P~ofi[ Orga~ation Our House, Too offers a variety of activities for people who are HtV+ and or living with AIDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves. We invite anyone who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail hardsmmjr@yahoo.com. Quotable Quotes More than 90 percent of gays and lesbians vote in U.S. presidential elections, compared to 64 percent of straight citizens. Queer folk are twice as likely as straight folk to vote in midterm elections. Community Marketing, Inc. (CMI), a leading LGBT market research company. www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 27 As Mercury lines up with the Sun in Aquarius, everyone is a bit more know-it-all and too damn clever for his or her own good. Try to be adaptive, open-minded, and a good listener, and you will be much smarter - however discreetly - than the people voicing their grand ideas. ARIES (March 20 -April 19): Friends who seem relentless in urging you on are actually doing you a favor. You’re capable of more than you realize. Going it alone would weaken you. Let them help you, and you’ll go far! TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): Question authority, but pay attention to what those in power say. Expert advice needs some expansion and clarification, and asking for that will prove advantageous. Asking questions doesn’t make you look foolish, but not asking them when you should will! GEMINI (May 21 - Jun~ 20): You’re itching for a power struggle. Playing it out in the bedroom can release that energy so your uppity impulses don’t make trouble for you at work. Or focus and harness that energy more deliberately at work, if you can! CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Your mouth is running way ahead of your brain and your good sense. Try to stick to places where a lack of inhibition and tasteful restraint can work to your favor. Anywhere else, slow down and think about what you’re saying. LEO (July 23 - August 22): Your partner - in life or in the moment - will offer some kinky new possibilities, expanding your erotic horizons. If your sweetie is drawing a blank in that department, start talking about tattoos and body art. Just discussing it should stimulate the imagination. VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): New approaches at work can make your job more productive and enjoyable. You have some great ideas, but don’t be so insistent on doing things your own way. Colleagues will offer surprising inspiration. LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): A new approach to your favorite sport or hobby can make it a lot more fun and/or creative. Ask yourself how Morn or Granny would approach it, whether you choose to follow that example or take a diametrically opposite approach. SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): If you can manage to have some fun with your family, you’ll be amazed at what secrets will be revealed in the process. Stand your ground gently in arguments, agreeing to disagree, and even more will come out! 28 the STAR SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 20): Insisting that you’re right only exposes more glaringly where you’re wrong. Try to keep an open mind, and remember what basic principles are really important. Adapt with new conditions and new ideas to keep up! CAPRICORN (December 21 - January 19): Adaptability is not only an enduring value, it is one of your sign’s best attributes. New ideas that seem to be an affront to your sensibilities can prove very helpful, and will eventually affirm the values they seem to attack. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): You’re getting a birthday bolt of fabulosity in which anything could happen, and you’ll make sure it will. Thrive on the attention, but take a little time out to charge your batteries. Let yourself be surprised. Really surprised. PISCES (February 19 - March 19): Working behind the scenes, especially in a charitable effort, will be to your advantage. The political connections will be obvious, but there will be more surprising benefit!! MC METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES Rev Steve T. Urie Spirit of Christ MCC 2902 E 20th Street Joplin, MO 64804 417-529-8480 Worship Saturdays at 10:00 AM Community Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM MCC of the Living Spring 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays at 6:00 PM Have a God filled and BleSSed Day! www.ozarksstar.com DOWNTOWN PLAZA ofTULSA 17 West 7th Street Tulsa, OK 918-585-5898 x~wv.downtownplazatulsa.com HABANA INN 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-528-2221 www.habanainn.com KELLY KIRBY, CPA 4815 S. HARVARD, SUITE 424 Tulsa, OK * 918-747-5466 Certified Public Accountant SUSAN HARTMAN Independent Broker Oklahoma and Arkansas 918-698-2977 susanlhartman@gmail.com JUDY G. PHOTO’S Tulsa, OK judygphotos@sbcglobal.net 918-743-8636 CENTURY 21 GOLD CASTLE 3627 NW EXPRESS\grAy Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405-840-2106 vcww.c21 goldcastle.com CHUCK BRECKENRIDGE Keller Williams Realty Tulsa, OK 918-706-1887 GAY BRADY HEIGHTS-Tulsa New and Historic Homes for Sale and Rent For Info: www.gaybradyheightstulsa.com GUSHER’S RESTAURANT 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 Located inside Habana Inn CLUB MAJESTIC 124 N. BOSTON Tulsa, OK 918-584-9494 www.clubmajestictutsa.com FINISHLINE 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE COPA 2200 NW" 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE LEDO 2200 NW39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com DIVERSITY CHRISTIAN CNTR 211 S. Garnett Tulsa, OK 74128 www.realacceptance.com OUR HOUSE, TOO 203 N. Nogales Ave Tulsa, OK 74127 918-585-9552 HOPE TESTING CLINIC 3540 E. 31st Tulsa, OK 800-535-2437 Oklahoma’s HIV/STD Hotline SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC 2902 E. 20TH STREET, Joplin, MO * 479-529-8480 Service Saturday 9:30 AM MCC of the LIVING SPRING 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays 6pro NWARKANSAS GLBT CENTER Bentonville/Rogers 888-391-9222 WWW..NWAGLBTCC.ORG ANGLES 2117 NW 39th St. Oklahoma City, OK www.anglesclub.com BAMBOO LOUNGE 7204 E. PINE Tulsa, OK 918-836-8700 www.bambooloungetulsa.com Want the STAR delivered to your home or business? 12 issues for $33.95 will be mailed in a sealed envelope the 1 st of each month. Complete the form below and send with a check or moneyorder to: The STAR 5103 S. Sheridan Rd., #153 Tulsa, OK 74145 (Single Copies $3.00 per issue) NAME: Address: City:. St: Zip: Phone: Check enclosed Money Order Start Date: www.ozarksstar.corn 29 \Vc’hether buying or selling I’ll work hard for you. ~.~kansas GLBT Community Center "Linking Together as One" For more information: 888-391-9222 WWW.NWAGLBTCC.ORG 30 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com :hart \~;’.lLam ShakcsFea~;:. ,she ,~. www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 31 °Aid Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2008] The Star Magazine, February 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 2 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource February 01, 2008 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Image Online text PDF Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource magazine Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Southwestern Missouri Western Arkansas Southeastern Kansas Eastern Oklahoma The United States of America (50 states) Subject The topic of the resource Politics, education, and social conversation over LGBTQ+ topics Description An account of the resource The Star Magazine’s first issue began February of 2005. Before this issue was Ozarks Pride (2004) and The Ozark Star (2004). Follows is The Metro Star (2008). This magazine discusses topics of AIDs, education, politics, local and national civil rights of the LGBT community, and advice for relationships and places to visit. This collection is PDF searchable. Physical copies are also available to be seen at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center with permission. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Star Media, Ltd Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Star Media, Ltd Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Charles Ward Victor Gorin Greg Steele Paul Wortman James Nimmo Joey D. Victor Gorin Romeo san Vicente Andrew Collins Donald Pile Ronald Blake Ray Williams Jack Fertig Liz Highleyman Devre Jackson Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://history.okeq.org/collections/show/19 Relation A related resource The Star Magazine, January 1, 2008; Volume 5 Issue 1 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/246 The Star Magazine, March 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 3 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/249 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context https://history.okeq.org/items/show/245 art Book review Club Majestic Cornett Deep Inside Hollywood fitness Gay Screenplay contest health HIV/AIDs testing horoscopes Jessica Newman Joplin Gay & Lesbian center MCC church Mike Huckabee mixology Ms. Oklahoma Continental Our House Past Out Q Scopes Quotable Quotes Star Advertisers star classified Surrounded by Insanity Too travel Valentine's Day Virginia Woolf https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/be0ae56e7062acd8c024758acee9e450.jpg 45f01a058dc724e3b2f96696dfc13337 https://www.history.okeq.org/files/original/106bd8d97ee140cad2981c547d629591.pdf 8f8be49a6dcbded09162ea9d9b5d96d5 PDF Text Text l!li!ll!lllllllllilillllll IIII!lllllllllllllllllll I!illillilllli!illllilill IIiiIIIIIIIIIIlillllllll il!l,ll!llllillllillllllill III!1111111!11111111111111 iI!llll!lllllilillllllll lit~ II r ~ I �Royal GreCnCountrg Barony o~: dll Oklahoma pr~ent~s 2 the STAR www.ozarksstar.cor~ �www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 3 �¯he Colors of Living", featuring giclee prints of the digital art of Tulsa artist Dennis R. Scott. ~O ONL~HOMA HATE CRII~flE Gay community outraged over Steven Domer slaying. NEW: Deep Inside Hollywood, reports on new projects for Sarah Jessica Parker and Dan Butler. November 21,1999 fine last grand Queen) Flamboyant author Quentin Crisp dies in Manchester, England. Tulsa’s Downtown Plaza Hotel openly welcomes GLBT. Gay Travelers: 6,000 Mile Trip Out of Town: Key West Dining In or OUT FIITHESS Introspection can lead you to better understand yourself and ultimately to achieve greater happiness. ON THE COVER: 4 the STAR Downtown Tulsa www.ozarksstar.com �"If you are elected President, what concrete steps would you take to overturn ’Don’t As~, Don’t Tell ?’" Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-NY): I strongly believe that anyone who has the courage, strength, and valor to serve our country should be able to do so. We are at war and our top generals are warning that America’s military is stretched to the breaking point, yet we have a policy that dismisses good people from our ranks. Even service members with critical skills such as Arabic language skills are being discharged because they are gay. Senior retired military officials who can speak freely say this law does not serve our national security interests. These same military leaders are confident that repealing Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell won’t lessen standards of behavior or lower morale. As President, I will work with high-profile military leaders, such as former Joint Chiefs chairman John M. Shalikashviii and Retired Lieutenant General Claffdia Kennedy, the first woman to achieve the rank of three-star general in the Army, who have called for repeal of the law. I will stand with soldiers like retired Marine Staff Sgt. Eric Alva, the first American soldier to be seriously wounded in Iraq, and retired Army Sgt. Jose Zuniga, former Army Soldier of the Year, who are shining examples of why this law no longer makes sense. Over the last seven years in the Senate, and as a member of the Armed Services Committee, I have built relationships with members of Congress and senior military officials through my work on the Armed Services Committee. When I am President, I will bring this strength and experience to bear to end this outdated and outmoded policy. w~,-w.ozarksstar.com the STAR 5 �Denounces TULSA, OK (P/R) __ Oklahomans for Equality expresses its outrage at the recent murder of Steven Domer. "gge extend condolences to his family and friends. This senseless tragedy highlights the urgent need for federal and state hate crimes legislation protecting lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LBGT) people. On October 26th, Steven Domer, a 62-yearold gay man, was abducted from NW 39th Street near Pennsylvania Avenue in Oklahoma City. On November 4th, his body was found in rura! McClain County. His hands were tied with duct tape and a wire hanger was wrapped around his neck. The Oklahoma State Medical Examiner concluded that Domer died of asphyxiation and ruled his death a homicide. On November 28, Darrell Madden, a self-prodaimed white supremacist, was charged with first-degree murder and kidnapping in relation to Domer’s death. Prosecutors believe that Madden targeted Domer as part of an initiation rite of the Aryan Brotherhood. Inorder to secure a "patch," the white supremacist group demands that its members commit an act of violence against an African American, Jew, homosexual, or any other person declared "an enemy." Although Oklahoma County District Attorney David Prater and other law enforcement officials believe that anti-gay bias was a motivating factor in Domer’s murder, they cannot prosecute Madden under Oklahoma’s hate crimes law because the statute does not cover sexual orientation. Oklahoma is one of only 17 states whose hate crimes laws do not protect LGBT citizens. Most state hate crime laws enhance the penalties for bias-motivated crimes. On December 4, Representative Al McAf’frey (D-Oklahoma City) announced his intention to introduce a bill expanding the state’s hate crime law to include sexual orientation and gender. In May, the U.S. House of Representatives passed The Local Law Enforcement Hate 6 the STAR Crimes Prevention Act/Matthew Shepard Act giving the Justice Department the power to investigate and prosecute bias-motivated violence by providing the department with jurisdiction over crimes of violence where the perpetrator has selected the victim because of the person’s actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability. This bill will soon be voted upon in the U.S. Senate. As legislators consider passage of these historic state and national laws, Oklahomans for Equality will be working with its allies in the LGBT and allied community in educational and advocaW efforts. Hate Crimes Amendment Removed rom Dept o£De£ense Con erence Report WASHINGTON, DC (P/R DEC 6TH) __ ~Ibday, House-Senate conferees confirmed that the Matthew Shepard Act, which had passed the Senate as an amendment to the Department of Defense Authorization bill, would be removed from the final version of the bill. This announcement was made after House Leadership’s whipping the vote count on the conference report concluded there were not enough votes for passage of the bill if it included the hate crimes provision. "Today’s decision is deeply disappointing, especially given the historic passage of hate crimes legislation through both Houses of Congress this year. After more than ten years and several successful bipartisan votes, it is heartbreaking to fall short this dose to the finish line," said Joe Solmonese, President of the Human Rights Campaign. "However, we are not giving up on efforts to find another legislative vehicle, in the second half of this Congress, to move the Matthew Shepard Act." The Human Rights Campaign has been a chief advocate of hate crimes legislation for over a decade. On November 14th, HRC sent an e-mail to all Capitol Hill offices urging the retention of hate crimes legislation in the Department of Defense Authorization conference report. Additionally, HRC organized and signed onto a coalition letter www.ozarksstar.com �www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 7 �"At Century 21 Gold Cas#e our BEST properties are our PEOPL~ Gny men and le~btans fac~ many special ta~ situations, whether single or a~ 3627 NW Expressway Oklahoma City, OK 73112 Let us help with your TAX Prep! (918) 747-5466 405.840.2t06 www.c21 goldcastie.com Pmu~l~t ~¢r~lng Tulm ~ OKC’s GLBT comm~mitl~ ~lnc~ 1982 Chuck Bmckenddge 918-706~1887 Let us promote your business in a UNIQUE & DIVERSE market. Call STAR ADVERTISING today. (918)835-7887 8 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �eyes ofm~ artist driven to create impressions of the beauty which sttcrounds him. "’l-he Colors of Living’ a digital art exhibit at Dennis R. Neill Equality Center The exhibit w’dl remain up through the month of January and can be viewed Monday thru Saturday from 3-gpm. The Dermis R. Nedl Equality Center is located at 621 E. dth St., in downtown Tulsa. More info c~a be found on the web at okeq.org. ’Ihis monthly event is hosted by Okiahoman’s for Equality (OkEq). OkEq seeks equal rights for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexmal & Tra~sgender (LGBT) individuals and f~mihes through advoca~, education, programs, alliances, and the operation of the Dennis IL Neig Equality Center. Tulsa artist Dennis IL Scotx TULSA, OK~ The Dennis IL Neili Equality Center ar~ gallery wi[[ host its monthly First Thursday meet-the-artist reception from 6-gpm, ~aursday, January 3, 2008, for the opening oflts January exhibit "The Colors of Living", featu ~mg giclee prints of the digital ~trt of Tulsa ~tist Dermis IL Scott. Scott has been creating his digital art for the list three years. His work is unlike most digital or computer art. His style is unique. His arc is totally his own..., his ovca~ way of seelng life, his own way of depicOng that which he sees. Whether one might call Scott’s art abstract, impressionistic, or surreal is of little concern to Scott. Through his art he invites the viewer, the art lover or even the mere observer, to take a chance, as he has in creating his art. Taking a chance is what ~rtists do. Vie~,Cm g Scott’s art is seeing his subjects as he sees them, through the Art byTulsa artist Dennis IL Scott the STAR 9 �THE ALUES ES SLAY By Victor Gorin recently released convicts, Madden having served time at Jess Dunn Correctional Center for impersonating a police officer and obtaining money by false pretense. Quails had been released from the Dick Conner Correctional facility in Hominy for a 2001 burglary conviction. It was speculated that Mr. Domer’s murder may have been a gang rite of passage. The murder has garnered national attention, somewhat reminiscent of the murder of Matthew Shepard in Laramie, Wyoming in !998.A press conference was held at Church of the Open Arms December 4, followed by a candlelight vigil in the parking lot of Angles that evening. The press conference and vigil were Photo: Steven Domer OKLAHOMA CITY, OK __ The Oklahoma gay community and their allies have been outraged and saddened by the murder of Steven Domer, a 62 },ear old Oklahoma City man believed to have been targeted primarily because he was gay. On October 26, he had driven a friend home from the N.W. 39th street gay bar district, then returned to the area, and was last seen at the car wash there, an area well known for male prostitution. He was seen by a witness to be talking to two young men. His body and burned out car were found near 1-35 and Ladd road north of Purcell November 4. Oklahoma County prosecutors have charged Darrell Madden with Domer’s murder. Madden, a white supremacist who was arrested in McLain County for an attempted carjacking, is also charged in McLain County with the murder of the Brad Qualls, the other man believed to be seen talking with Steven Domer the night he disappeared. Quails was found shot to death November 8 at an Ardmore apartment complex. Madden & Qua.lls have been identified as members of the United Aryan Brotherhood, a xvhite supremacist group which recruits many of their members in prisons. Both were 10 the STAR attended by the Reverend Harry Knox, the Faith Community Director of the Human Rights Campaign, a national GLBT rights political group. As he puts it," Oklahoma is one of only 17 states that do not protect GLBT citizens through hate crimes legislation." Objections to hate crimes legislation have come from religious fundamentalist groups who claim they would not be able to preach against homosexual behavior should this legislation become law. Harry Knox clarified that this type of speech is protected the 1st Amendment of the US. Constitution, and to say otherwise is " to tell a lie unworthy of ministers of the gospe! of Jesus Christ." He pointed out that "people are dying in Oklahoma, and GLBT people are wondering when their pastors will speak out for justice. Steven Domer’s voice cries out for justice, asking pastors for whom do they work, the people or for God?" Richard Ogden, an attorney who chairs the Cimarron Alliance Foundation also spoke, stating that" In Oklahoma and across our nation there is a climate of intolerance, and a tolerance of intolerance. This has to stop. When we in Oklahoma have passed laws that basically say that gays and lesbians are second class citizens, we create an environment that licenses this type of behavior. " Although this was a brutal murder that was obviously motivated because the victim was gay, Darrell Madden could not be charged with a hate crime because Federal and Oklahoma hate crimes laws do not cover sexual orientation. Legislation was introduced this year in Congress to amend Federal Hate Crimes laws to include sexual orientation by Senator Edward Kennedy D-Massachusetts, but was dropped when it became dear that it would not pass the House. On the state level State Representative Al McA_ffrey, Oklahoma’s first and only openly gay legislator, has stated that he will introduce legislation to amend Oklahoma Hate Crimes laws to include sexual orientation and gender. This is supported by both Oklahoma County District Attorney David Prater, and Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmondson. Mr. McAffrey did state that he realized he will probably be facing an uphill battle in the legislature. Clarifying the point that some conservatives make, that Hate Crimes laws elevate gay people to a special status, he affirmed that ifa group of gay men attacked a straight man ,vith baseball bats, targeting him for his sexual orientation, they would also be guilty of a hate crime under this legislation. Reverend Dr. Kathy McCallie, pastor of Church of the Open Arms-United Church of Christ, pointed out that this crime was not an isolated incident, stating that "there xvill be a day when GLBT persons can freely be themselves and enjoy the safety equality and respect that’s due to every member of the human family, but today is not that day. On October 26 when Steve Domer was brutally murdered, we were each violated. " ~w.ozarksstar.com �on the loose Wiads House Providing A Sa£e P lace For 20 By Greg Steele By Victor Gorin Photo Left to Right:Jennifer Bates, Asley Ozan, Linda Duke Miranda Ray will be performing in the Kris Kohl Show New Years Eve At the Jones’n Club Downtown Plasza Hotel. Doxvntoxvn Plaza Hotel Tulsa General Managers Jay Wilks and Debbie McCraw. Miss Gay Tulsa America, Melody Michaels at the BOO. OKLAHO!VIA CITY, OK __ Thanks to a caring community, Winds House of Oklahoma City was able to raise over $2500 at a gala fundraiser December 7th. For over 20 years the Winds have provided a safe place to stay for those living with HIV and their families, serving as transitional housing until they are able to re-enter the general community. The home provides referrals and assistance for disability income, food stamps, Section 8 housing etc. Donatons are always needed and can be sent to \Vinds House OKC, P.O. Box 12185 Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73157. Miss Gay Oklahoma US of A 2008, Samantha West at the Copa .... Acid-tongued talk-show host and out lesbian Rosie O’Donnell, who famously dashed with Elisabeth Hasselbeck on "The View," and the big clash with Donald Trump announced on her bloc that talks to give her a prime-time show on MSNBC had fallen apart. New York Songstress Rachael Sage and an adoring fan in Tulsa. www.ozarksstar.com Attorney Richard Ogden, Chair of Cimarron Alliance Foundation, the Reverend Harry KnoxFaith Community Director of the Human Rights Campaign, and the Reverend Loyce Newton-Ed,#cards at Hate Crimes press conference in OKC. the STAR 11 ��DEEP INSIDE HOLLYVc’OOD SAMANTHA CAPTU ,S MISS GAY OKLAHOMA US OF A TITLE Loaves and Fishes Bar uet a Huge By Victor Gorin By Victor Gorin Photo Left to Right: Former Miss Gay Oklahoma Kitty Bob Aimes, Matthew Heath Fitzgerald, Sonja Martinez, John Beebe & Debbie Davie Shades of Rex Lee As Lloyd, Jeremy Piven’s assistant on Entourage, gay actor Rex Lee has carved out a hilarious niche for himself. His character stuck around and gained a higher profile thanks to Lee’s wicked comic timing and popularity with fans. Soon, though, he’ll jump from the small to the big screen, appearing in the independent feature Shades of Ray. A seriocomic romance, Shades stars Chuck main man ZachatT Levi as Ray, a mixedrace, American-born son of a Pakistani father and Caucasian mother. As his parents separate and his father moves in with him, Ray must deal with his own romantic and racial issues. Sounds heartfelt and sincere, but Romeo’s guessing that Lee’s job will be to pop up from time to time with just the right punchline for an awkward moment. As HBO audiences know, he’s an expert at that. Romeo San Vicente is still waiting patiently for the all-musical edition of "The McLaughlin Group. "He can be reached care of this publication or at DeepInsideHollywood @qsyndicate.com. OKLAHOMA CITY, OK __ It was a festive evening at the Habana Inn December 9th xvhen the title for the nexv Miss Gay Oklahoma US of A was passed on to Samantha West, a 26 ),ear old Tulsan among the performers at Nexv Age Renegades, The 1st alternate xvas Londenn Raine, xvith 2nd alternate Jozlyn Welch. The xvinner and I st alternate are eligible to compete in the national competition which will be held in Dallas May 20-23 of next year. OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__ On December 3-4 the 17th annual Loaves and Fishes Banquet came together at the Copa for a fabulous evening of fundraising for a good cause. Featuring entertainers John Beebe, Sonja Martinez,Debbie Davie, Matthew Heath-Fitzgerald and former Miss Gay Oklahoma Kitty Bob Aimes, the event raised over $7200. Loaves and Fishes, a program of Catholic Charities, provides meals to homebound people living with HIV. Directed by Ms Judy Reilly, once again the community came together for a proud tradition of caring. Passing on the fide was Alexis Nicole Whitney, who made history with the pageant not just with her doe, but living proof that nothing can stand in the xvay of talent and determination. As she puts it, "People should see my blindness the same I do. I don’t see it as a handicap, but as an obstacle I have overcome." That she did, not only capturing the Oklahoma title but also was one of the top 12 finalists at the national competition. Our girls do us proud! Please Join Us Feb. 10, 2008, 10:00 p.m. @ 39th and Penn OKC, OK. For information call Nikki Start @ 580 216 2715 or 1 866 906 1133 www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 13 �by Liz I-Iighleyman November 21, 1999 (%e last grand Queen): Flamboyant author Quentin Crisp dies in Manchester, England. himself with various jobs, induding graphic artist, xvindow dresser, tap-dance instructor, and hustler. He adopted a new moniker and a flamboyant, effeminate style that included flowing scarves, platform shoes, dyed hair, and makeup. He was "not merely a self-confessed homosexual, but a self-evident one," he would later say, describing himself as "a blithe spirit reveling in androgynous anarchy." The death of author and raconteur Quentin Crisp at the end of the 20th century represented the passing of one of the last grand queens of a bygone era. Crisp, originally named Denis Charles Pratt, xvas born on Christmas Day in 1908 in the London suburb of Sutton, the youngest child of a "middle-class, middle-brow" family. Always considered a sissy, he later said he could never remember not being tormented by his father, siblings, and schoolmates. Crisp studied journalism and art in London, and in his early 20s began hanging out with hip young gay men in Soho, supporting 14 the STAR Openly gay and gender-variant at a time when homosexuality was highly stigmatized and sex between men was illegal, Crisp was frequently attacked by strangers in the streets and harassed by police. During World War II, he was exempted from military service due to his homosexuality, and instead embarked upon a career as a nude model at a government-funded art school. Crisp did not gain widespread notoriety until his 60s, with the publication of his autobiography, The Naked Civil Servant (1968), one of the first unapologetic contemporary accounts of gay life. Although the book was well-received, it was the 1975 television movie version starring John Hurt that brought Crisp instant fame. Crisp began appearing on talk shows and created a successful one-man theatrical performance. He took his show to Ne~v York City in 1978, fell in love with America, and decided to immigrate a few years later, settling into a notoriously sloppy one-room apartment in a seedy neighborhood on Manhattan’s Lower East Side. Crisp became a fixture of the city’s celebrity scene, growing increasingly famous just for being himself. "If I have a talent for anything," he said, "it is not for doing but for being." He wrote a column for the New York Native newspaper and film criticism for Christopher Street magazine, and published several more books, including How to Become a Virgin (1981) and Manners from Heaven: A Divine Guide to Good Behavior (1984). He also appeared in a number of movies and documentaries, most notably as Queen Elizabeth I in Orlando (1993). Though he socialized in queer social circles, Crisp was unsympathetic to the gay rights movement and held attitudes many younger activists regarded as homophobic. "I don’t think you can really be proud of being gay because it isn’t something you’ve done," he once said. "You can only be proud of not being ashamed." He eschewed identity politics and queer separatism, and thought loud demands only led to backlash. Crisp persisted in referring to homosexuality as an illness, and he caused a furor when he told the London Times in 1997 that he thought it would be acceptable for a woman to abort a fetus carrying a hypothetical gay gene. "You could have children who are naturally suited to society," he later explained. "They would be happy." He also once opined that the gay community’s obsession with AIDS was a fad, and advised, "If you want to be sure you won’t have AIDS, don’t have sex with anyone." .................... Continued page 27 vwvw.ozarksstar.com �The nose can intrigue you or turn off about a wine. Smell is the wine taster. Much is taste comes through you don’t believe it, t or a meal - the next head cold. Aging the wine in oak es of vanilla, almonds. Extended lend a toasty scents as variable as leather to roses The aroma of ~ ! and the closely related Mergrape~for e×ampie, often reminds of cedar wood and pine needles led with a ood fruit smell reminis- 2005 miner call to France: www.wunsch-mann.fr Many grapes aromas: Zinfandel often Pinot Noir, the fine may recall ~ may Chenin and, smell www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 15 �TRAVELING IN OUR FABULOUS WORLD By Donald Pile and Ray Williams gaytravelers@aol.com Now everything IS okay in Oklahoma! The gay community and gay travelers to Tulsa now have a place where they are made to feel VERY WELCOME! We stayed there a couple of weeks ago and it was wonderfull. "l-he rooms are spacious and the staff is extremely friendly and professional. ~-he renovations are not finished yet, however we know that when it is completed that it will be the finest hotel in Tulsa. We stayed in the Premier Suite which was on a scale of one to ten, a 15 ! It featured a living room with pull out queen sleeper sofa, a 36 inch TV and DVD Player. Ceiling to floor (and wall to wall windows) for a spectacular view of the city. A large King bedroom with extra pillows, a 25 inch TV in the bedroom and dub chair and ottoman. Two full bathrooms and a kitchenette/dining area with coffee maker, fridge/microwave and a snack basket, microwave popcorn and cookies with bottled water. ~he Downtown Plaza Hotel of Tulsa was built in 1966 as the first downtown hotel in Tulsa to offer modern conveniences. Shortly afterwards it was a Holiday Inn, then a Ramada Inn, then as the Great Western Hotel. In July, 2007 it was sold to the Chisholm Properties, Ltd. and they renamed it back to it’s original name, "Downtown Plaza Hotel of Tulsa". The Chisholm Properties Ltd. the STAR owns other fine hotels in Oklahoma, Missouri and Texas. It is located at 17 West 7th Street in the heart of the beautiful historica] financial and entertainment district of Tulsa. They are directly adjacent to the world famous Petroleum Club. It rises 14 stories above the City and is currendy undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation. A VERY extensive renovation is now underway however they do have at this time, over 70 rooms for their guests. Their plan is for the renovations to be completed by May, 2008 and have over 200 rooms when completed. The new look for the hotel is based on modern boutique style hotels that are now found across the country and Europe. Queen, Deluxe King, Executive King, Executive King Junior Suite or the Premier King Suite. Each suite has a Fridge/Micro in the kitchenette. Their prices are extremely down to earth and much less than the other dmvntown hotels. The hotel is within a short walking distance to Tulsa’s Convention Center, the New The PAC (Performing Center, Tulsa Tech and many buildings and landmarks. ; the many amenities are: floors, business weddings & receptions, air~ort shuttle free Cherokee Casino [ wireless Internet, covered parking, guest laundry ~n site), fax & copy service. Their service includes 43 channels, 3 4 ESPN channels, i Nick, Food Network and r more. The Downtown Plaza equipped with a Fitness Center their guests, including strength and cardio equipment. Lounge around their outdoor pool and catch some rays, secluded by the urban environment of Tulsa’s rooftops. Just inside the poolside seating area is The Jones’N Club, a full bar with a pool table and live music. Conference, meeting and banquet rooms are available to accommodate groups of 10 to 250 guests. .............. Continued page 27 The hotel has a variety of rooms and suites to choose, from a Deluxe Double w~w~,.ozarksstar.com �More on Camp La Casa Sena - Santa Fe, New Mexico see page 22. ���From the upper sundeck at the Oasis men’s resort, guests enjoy panoramic views ofKey West’s Historic District. (Photo by Andrew Collins) For a seasonal tourist town, Key West has plenty to offer when it comes to dining and nightlife. Few places draw more raves for outstanding food than Alice’s Key West, where chef Alice Weingarten serves some of the most inventive food in town, including delicious smoked-salmon Benedict at breakfast. A departure from Key West’s predominant laid-back tropical look, Square One is a sophisticated restaurant with white table linen and fine china. The regionally inspired Continental cuisine includes escargot baked in a crepe with fresh spinach, garlic, feta, and a tomato beurre blanc. It’s a top choice for a romar~.tic evening. One of the better Italian restaurants in town, and also one of the gayest, La Trattoria has two dining rooms - the smaller one romantic and intimate, the larger better for groups of friends. The straightforward cooking draws high praise for such tasty creations as local shrimp sauteed with garlic, fresh tomatoes, and herbes de Provence in a white wine, lemon, and butter sauce. One of Dural Street’s true places to be seen, Mangoes brims with colorful sorts. The composed salads, pastas, and grills - all with nouvelle Florida touches - are commendable. Consider rib eye steak Caribe (pan-charred with tamarind steak sauce and yucca). Seven Fish, which occupies an old luncheonette and has a sleek, sophisticated interior, serves seafood-oriented bistro fare, such as crab and shiitake mushroom ravioli. The slogan at Mangia Mangia is "pasta to the people," a philosophy reflected by the many varieties of heavenly homemade pasta, all fairly priced. The painstakingly preserved building has a lovely, quiet garden and redbrick patio in back. You’ll need luck and persistence most nights to get a seat at Camille’s, a small storefront bistro, but the friendly vibe and downhome comfort food are worth the trouble. Expect good salads and sandwiches, such as Philly cheese steak, and delicious pancakes for breakfast. Key West: Where To Play, Eat, and Stay famous gay resort towns, Key West has always stood out for its sheer embrace of total relaxation. This laid-back tropical island in the Caribbean, closer to Cuba than to mainland Florida, is without pretensions. People rarely worry about what time it is, dress is casual and colorful, and the party scene is friendly and easygoing. Key West is neither fancy nor especially urbane - it’s just a great place to laze in a deck chair on a bougainvillea-choked lanai, browse for beachwear and souvenirs along the main drag, Duval Street, or relax on a restaurant patio noshing on raw oysters and sipping mango iced tea or mojitos. 20 the STAR For arguably the best sandwiches and wraps on the island, try Lobo’s - the oyster roll with cheddar, bacon, and basil tartar sauce is a stand-out. H Siboney is a zero-atmosphere eatery - _the_ place in town for humble, stick-to-your-ribs Cuban fare. Rickety tables are set with plastic tablecloths and paper napkins. Try such Havana specialties as conch chowder, garlic chicken, stuffed shrimp and crabs, platanos (plantains), and a sweet flan to top it off. As for traditional Cuban sandwiches, tiny 5 Brothers Grocery - on a side street in the historic district - serves the best around. Much of the gay social activity in Key West takes place at resorts, some of which provide refreshments and snacks to guests during the afternoon and early evening. A handful of properties have bars open to the public, among them Pearl’s Rainbow, the town’s only guest house exclusively for women, and the ultra-cruisy, all-male Island House, which also has an excellent restaurant. Most the town’s gay bars are along Duval Street. Here, the La-Te-Da guest house has a poolside bar, an intimate piano bar, and the Treetop Cabaret Lounge upstairs. Down a few blocks, the New Orleansinspired Bourbon Street Pub is a cheery place with a small bar up front with cocktail tables, a larger outdoor bar in back (along with a lively pool area and hot tub), and video screens galore. Many nights you can catch awful (but still entertaining) drag shows on the stage in back. The same owners run the lovably raffish 801 Bar, Key www.ozarksstar.com �West’s definitive neighborhood hangout since the 1970s. There’s almost always a crowd of gossipy locals around the bar. The adjacent One Saloon caters mostly to leather-and-Levi’s types and is reached through 801’s back door. Aqua Nightclub is best lmown for its raucous drag shows, which are headlined by the in-house drag troupe, the Aquanettes. This lively place also has strippers some nights, an impressive dance floor with high-tech laser-and-sound shows,’ and a cozy video bar. Key West has a number of inns that cater either exclusively or predominandy to the gay market. One of the best is Alexander’s, a long-popular gay resort with the relatively unusual policy of being both clothing-optional and welcoming to both women and men. This makes Alexander’s ideal for gay guys traveling with lesbian friends, or for any queer vacationers who enjoy a mixed-gender atmosphere. The effect is that the mood around the pool and hot mb tends to be less cruisy than at single-gender resorts. Aromatic tropical flowers, sundecks, rattan and wicker furnishings, and sparkling tiled bathrooms impart Alexander’s with a classy but casual look. Also welcoming of both women and men but drawing a predominantly male crowd, Big Ruby’s is less than a block from Dural Street, hidden behind high walls from noise and street traffic. The grounds feature towering palm trees and fragrant flowers, and an abundance of sundecks. Rooms are warm, contemporary, spotless, and full of light - all have TVIVCRs, mini-refrigerators, A/C, and ceiling fans. A complimentary full breakfast is included. As for the staff, you won’t find a more professional bunch of guys in Key West. all-male property with a somewhat cruisy vibe is the New Orleans Guest House, an attractive compound that’s above the Bourbon Street Pub, right in the center of the Dural Street action. Rooms are well-outfitted and attractively decorated, and rates moderately priced. Known as the Rainbow House until new owners took over a several years ago, the 38-room Pearl’s Rainbow is Key \Vest’s only resort that’s exclusive to women. Rooms are nicely done, with rattan and wicker furniture, pastel-hued walls, large TVs, and refrigerators. Many different configurations are available, from simple budget-oriented units set away from the noise of the pools and decks, to more spacious rooms doser to the action, some with kitchenettes or separate sitting areas. The resort encompasses several buildings, including some cute cottages that once provided housing for the workers of a cigar factory that formerly occupied the main building. There are two heated pools, spacious sundecks, and lots of opportunity to chat with other guests. This is a wonderful hideaway, whether you’re looking to make new friends or enjoy a litde peace and quiet with your honey. Most of the town’s men’s resorts are along Fleming Street, the Historic District’s main drag. Here you’ll find Equator, which has plush rooms with contemporary Caribbean-influenced furniture. Designer fabrics, feather pillows with comforters, Mediterranean-tile floors, large closets, and excellent sound insulation add to the comfort of each unit. The tradeoff is that the Equator’s grounds, although nicely landscaped, are smaller than at some of its competitors; there’s a compact pool and an oversize Jacuzzi tub. For years the sprawling Island House - a former cigar factory on the eastern edge of the Historic District - was synonymous with sex, sleaze, and shabbiness. It’s still synonymous with sex. But, happily, new owners have completely rebuilt the place, hired friendly and competent staff, and created lovely rooms with high-quality furnishings (all have VCR/TVs, refrigerators, safes, and plttsh linens). If you’re seeking a steamy ambience but also first-rate accommodations and a safe, friendly environment, the Island House is your dream come true. Amenities, all of them available 24 hours, include heated pool, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis, gym, sauna, steam room, and erotic-male-video lounge. The largest gay resort in town comprises three distinct properties - the Oasis, Coral Tree Inn, and Coconut Grove - operated by the same management. This highly social, all-male compound has rooms available in a variety of configurations and prices. The Coconut Grove is the fanciest of the three, having been completely gutted and redone following a fire in 2006 - it now has some of the cushiest accommodations in town. Next door, the Oasis has less pricey but still attractive rooms and beautiful grounds. Across the street, the Coral Tree has simpler but more affordable rooms. Guests are free to enjoy the grounds of all three properties. Another www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 21 �by Donald Pile & Ray Williams Featuring Cuisine From Coast to Coast La Casa Sena - Santa Fe, New Mexico W’e have been dining at La Casa Sena in Santa Fe for over 25 years and it just keeps getting better. Located right downtown, it is one of the most popular and critically acclaimed restaurants in the Southwest. Not only is the food some of the most delicious you’ll ever taste, the wine list is among the finest in the country. Whether dining inside or out on the patio, you are in for a real treat! "l-he ambiance, the food, the setting ...... everything is fabulous! La Casa Sena occupies a fine old haciendastyle adobe complex and means "the Sena House." q-he Sena family was one of the oldest and most notable in Santa Fe. q-he founder of the family, Bernadino de Sena, was an orphan from Mexico City who traveled to Santa Fe in 1693. In the early 1980% the ravages of rime finally began to take a toll on the hacienda. Art dealer, Gerald Peters purchased the historic building and extensively renovated it without making any architectural changes. The restoration succeeded in keeping the historic ambiance and integrity of the Sena Plaza intact. 22 the STAR Th-he Southwestern cuisine served at La Casa Sena draws on the rich history of the region. Th-heir distinctive red chile is grown for the restaurant near Dixon, on the Rio Grande in northern New Mexico. The harsh weather there means that this local product is not plentifi~ and, because the restaurant purchases virtually the entire crop, it is unlikely that this chile will be tasted anywhere else in the world. They are located right off the Plaza in downtown Santa Fe at 125 East Palace. q-heir dinner hours are Sunday thru Thursday: 5:30 - 10:00 PM and Friday & Saturday: 5:30 - 10:00 PM. Lunch: 11:30 _A!vl - 3:00 PM Monday thru Saturday and 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM on Sundays www.ozarksstar.com �People Wi h A D$ City Resident Ray Prewitt aooept New I ovie SANTA FE, NM (P/R) __ Oklahoma City resident, Ray Prewitt, will take on the role of"Owen" in the Jim Sheridan helmed "Brothers" for Relativity Media. The film stars Natalie Portman, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Tobey Macguire. LITTLE ROCK, ARK __ Republican Presidential candidate and former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee once advocated isolating AIDS patients from the general public, opposed increased federal funding in the search for a cure and said homosexuality could "pose a dangerous public health risk." As a candidate for a U.S. Senate seat in 1992, Huckabee answered 229 questions submitted to him by The Associated Press. Besides a quarantine, Huckabee suggested that Hollywood celebrities fund AIDS research from their own pockets, rather than federal health agencies. "If the federal government is truly serious about doing something with the AIDS virus, we need to take steps that would isolate the carriers of this plague," Huckabee wrote. Shooting began last week on this remake of Susanne Bier’s Danish-language war drama which centers on a man, (Maguire) who is sent to fight in Afghanistan while his black-sheep brother (Gyllenhaal) cares for his wife (Portman) and child. Prewitt, who recently appeared in Carpenter Square’s "Sordid Lives", is best known as the producer of "Call Us Crazy: The Anne Heche Monologues" which achieved theatrical cult status in Los Angeles featuring stars like Edie McClurg, Alex Borstein, Megyn Price, and Scott Thompson. This is Prewitt’s second time to share the screen with Portman since " 2000. "Where the Heart Is" .in "I think the government’s role should not be involved in personal habits. When you defend freedom, you defend freedom of choice, and you can’t be picking and choosing how people use those freedoms...whether it’s personal behavior or economic behavior, I want people to have freedom of choice," Paul asserted. He believes the constitution says such issues should be left to the states to decide, and ira state chooses to legalize marijuana, cocaine, heroin and/or prostitution, so be it. Presidential candidate Rep. Ron Paul, R-Tex www.ozarksstar.com The STAR 23 �Chaz & Victor ��Twenty-eight retired generals and admirals released a letter Friday urging Congress to overturn the ban on gays serving openly in the military, according to "l-he New York Times. The letter cites information showing that 65,000 gay men and lesbians are currently serving in the military and that there are more than 1 million gay and lesbian veterans who have "served our nation honorably." By Ronald Blake ~have been indulging myself lately with the finer aspects of food and beverage. I have acquiesced with my body’s cravings for rectangular chocolate delights that are known to the masses as Snickers, Three Musketeers, and Whatchamacallits. I have given in to the luscious temptations of the all-powerful supreme pizza with its smothering array of toppings and guilt. I have even fallen prey to the hypnotic sexual commercial suggestions of the beer and booze barons of this fair land. Yes, I have been greedily imbibing the works of the great fermentation experts such as Adolph Coors and August Busch. How can I possibly engage in such extreme epicurean behavior and still manage to put on my jeans without a forced smile? Of course I will disclose the many and varied means by which I make this feasible. Each day I lace up my sneakers and head out on a seven mile romp through my neighborhood streets and enjoy the festively adorned homes. This provides me the opportunity to dear my mind and breathe in all those particulates from city living. It also affords me the chance to count the expanse of calories I burn off: in the process. I usually get credit for 800 calories each day from this physical activity mode. I am that guy who finds the parking space on the periphery of the mall parking lot. ~llais is not a forced choice in response to all the holiday shoppers. I actively seek out the spot that is closer to the frontage road than the stores’ entrances. This gives me the excellent opportunity to partake in the lost art of walking somewhere. Chalk up another couple hundred calories burned in a week’s time. Every other day I don my favorite ripped Guns N Roses T-shirt and my faded periwinkle Russell Athletic shorts and ease into 26 the STAR my workout roudne. I set my bicep, quadriceps, and triceps muscles into a sweet synergistic syncopation. I dedicate thirty minutes for every session and I am proudly able to record several hundred singed calories for that day’s effort. Some of my other calorie consuming moments has involved the firm scolding of my car and leaving him alone in the garage while I set out down the block to get the mail. I have often abandoned the comforts of my plush settee and even ignored the puppy dog eyes from my cuddly ottoman so that I could walk around the living room while discoursing with the likes of my Aunt Chilada on the telephone. Friends have even chided me for spending disproportionate time with the steps and hand railings of building stairwells than with the numbered buttons and "The Girl from Ipanema" music from elevators. Thankfully for me, these mundane activities afford me a cornucopia of numerous extra burned calories. I am able to consume more of the Food Network creations than the average Punch and Judy because of my lifestyle. My gourmand way of life would soon dissipate if I would slink into the slothful practices of most of my fellow brethren. Free will gives you that chance to change it all starting today. I could certainly use some company on those lonely stairwells! This health and fitness column is brought to you by that guy who likes to count the times people say the phrase "you know" in their conversations. That gny is Ron Blake and he can be unwrapped at www.goblakefitness.com Creating Community for People living with H V/A1DS A 501 c (3) Non Profit Organization Our House, Too offers a variety of activities for people who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HtV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves. We invite anyone who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail hardsmmjr@yahoo.com. ~wtw.ozarksstar.com �Q~UENTIN CRISP DOWn, TOWN PLAZA DERAILED HATE CRIMES Indeed, Crisp was celibate for the latter half of his life. When sex therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer asked him what he thought about sex, he said he thought it was a mistake. He was also cynical about love, saying he didfft really understand it, and he never had an enduring romantic relationship. ~e hotel is the ONLY Tulsa hotel that is openly caters to everybody! The Lounge at the Downtown Plaza will start in January hosting Ms. Kris Kohl and will present a drag show every other Friday. They will also be hosting a Broadway touring company during the summer of 2008. Chisholm Properties, Ltd. has a complete non-discrimination policy to cover, Age, Religion, Nationality, Race, SF~VUAL ORIENTATION, Disability, Veteran Status and other individuals as protected by Federal, State and Locals Laws. sent to the Chairman and Ranking Members of the Armed Services Committees urging them to retain the Hate Crimes amendment as part of the conference report. Timed to correspond with Members returning from the Thanksgiving recess, on November 28th, HRC launched a nationwide action alert to all of its members urging immediate grassroots action to Members of Congress. Had he lived in a different era, Crisp might have identified as transgender rather than gay. "I believe I was born unfit for the world not because of anything to do with sex, but because of gender," he told one interviewer. "I have always felt like a woman born into a man’s body. Had I the money or the opportunity early in life, I would certainly have had a sex change." Though his work brought in a fair amount of money, Crisp lived a spartan existence, subsisting on hors d’oeuvres and champagne at parties. With a "lust for small talk," he held court at a local diner and devoted time to answering phone calls, letters, and e-mails from friends and strangers alike. He loved being the center of attention, and rarely turned down an opportunity to be interviewed or photographed. In his final years, though beset by health problems, he nevertheless continued to travel and perform. Crisp died of a heart attack in Manchester, England, in November 1999, just a month shy of his 91st birthday. The General Manager, Jay Wilks is a former flight attendant instructor and former owner of a small specialized aircraft charter tour company, award winning fit and art shop and an upscale gay magazine that was distributed in 7 States in the Southeast. The Assistant General Manager, Debbie McCraw is a former schoolteacher, Texas ranch foreman, homemaker and mother. With all of their combined hidden talents we KNOW that they will make a success in this new venture. Both Jay and Debbie are two of the nicest, friendliest and professional people that you would ever want to meet. They truly care about their guests and want them to have a very pleasant time while staying at the hotel. The front desk staff as well as the housekeeping staff are very friendly and professional. While some may find his flamboyant style and effeminate mannerisms embarrassingly stereotypical today, Crisp is remembered for being himself- and paying the price - at a time when few others dared to do so. Though he avoided organized LGBT activism, his entire life was a demonstration of gay and transgender empowerment. Next time you are going to be in Tulsa be sure to check out their website at www. downtownplazatulsa.com or give them a call at 800.585.5101 for reservations. Their local number is 918.585.5898. Or for those people living in Tulsa who are wanting to rent a conference or party site, give them a call. For further reading: Always remember to have fun when traveling, meet new people and talk to everyone! Bailey, Paul, ed. 2000. The Stately Homo: A Celebration of the Life of Quentin Crisp (Bantam). Crisp, Quentin. 1996. Resident Alien: The New York Diaries (HarperCollins). www, ozarksstar.corn TRAVELING IN OUR FABULOUS WORLD is written by Donald Pile and Ray Williams, Award-winning Celebrity travel columnists who write for gay publications from Coast to Coast. Proud members of the IGLTA. You can email them at: gaytravelers@aol.com or visit their webpage at: http://www.hometown.aol.com/gaytravelers The House of Representatives passed the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act (H.R. 1592) in May with a strong bipartisan vote of 237-180. The Senate approved the nearly identical Matthew Shepard Act (S. 1105) as an amendment to the Department of Defense Authorization bill on a voice vote after a 60-39 cloture vote. Inclusion of the hate crimes provision in the final version of the bill fell victim in the House to challenges from opponents of hate crimes as well as unrelated concerns regarding Iraq-related provisions of the bill. The hate crimes veto threat issued by the White House and organized opposition by House Republican Leadership cost significant numbers of votes on the right. Iraq-related provisions that many progressive Democrats opposed cost votes on the left. Moderate Democrats, many of whom voted for the hate crimes bill in May, did not want to test the President’s veto threat and risk a delay in increased pay for military personnel. ’All of these factors resulted in insufficient votes to secure passage of the bill with the hate crimes provision. 2~he Matthew Shepard Act gives the Justice Department the power to investigate and prosecute bias motivated violence by providing the Department with jurisdiction over crimes of violence where the perpetrator has selected the victim because of the person’s actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability. The legislation also provides the Justice Department ,vith the ability to aid state and local jurisdictions either by lending assistance or, where local authorities are unwilling or unable, by taking the lead in investigations and prosecutions of violent crime resulting in death or serious bodily injury that were motivated by bias. The Act also makes grants available to state and local communities to combat violent crimes committed by juveniles, train law enforcement officers, or to assist in state and !ocal investigations and prosecutions of bias motivated crimes. the STAR 27 �Just as the sun spends a month of every year in each sign, Jupiter, in his 12-year cycle, spends about a full year in each sign. Fresh into Capricorn, he will help to build up organizations and bureaucracy. The coming year will be a big one for the mature look, leather, and bondage. This week’s horoscope will be valid through the year! ARIES (March 20 -April 19): Socialize with important folks. Those doors are wide open to you. Looking respectable and conservative will help you get ahead. Even in the most buttoned-up crowd, people know the power of appearance. TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): If you have unfinished school business or want to go for a degree, sign up for those classes! Otherwise, delve into ancient philosophies or go traveling to historical, even archaeological places on your own initiative. GEMINI (May 21 - June 20): Not that you need the help, but your sexual magnetism is charging up. Trying to look young will not help. Maturity, experience, and authority all work in your favor. If you’ve been wanting to explore leather and kink, this is the time for it! SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 20): This should be a very lucky year for you for money - investments, lottery tickets, new businesses - but, it’s also "easy come, easy go." A conservative attitude and long-range perspective will prove most profitable. Consult an astrologer with your full birth chart before taking any big chances! CAPRICORN (December 21 o January 19): You’re in for a spell of good luck. Just be yourself and you’re sure to get ahead. There’s no point in being shy. Go for any opportunity that feels right. Further education and travel can serve you especially well. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): Blessings will come to you in disguise. If life gets hard, the troubles can easily be made into a springboard to tremendous luck. Volunteer work with venerable charities will prove advantageous in the meantime. PISCES (February 19 - March 19): Social opportunities will open up for you more easily if you "work the system" and follow conservative, conventional methods. Hobnob with "important people," but what’s "important" is subjective. Of course, those who don’t look or think like you can be important, too! CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Look toward formalizing an existing relationship or refining your criteria for one. Not only can you afford to be picky, but holding out for what you really want in your partnership will help you get it. C® LEO (July 23 - August 22): Any skin growths or bone or joint inflammations should be checked quickly, but in general your health should be good. Luck at work should improve. Look forward to promotions and be willing to take a risk to get them. METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES Spirit of Chdst MCC VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Some people think creativity is about mad inspiration. You know it’s about hard work. Your hard work can pay off big - probably more in terms of personal growth, but there could be money, toot LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): Researching your roots, taking time with older relatives, or spending time with community elders will give you a better sense not only of your background and foundations, but also of where you’re going. SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): Your mind needs stimulation and novelty, and you’re a bit more loquacious than usual. Be careful with that! Developing new skills, perhaps learning a new language, will open doors and help keep you focused and out of trouble. 28 the STAR 2902 E 20th Street Joplin, MO 64804 417-529-8480 Worship Saturdays at 10:00 AM Community Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM MCC of the Living Spring 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays at 6:00 PM Have a God filled and BleSSed Day! www.ozarksstar.com �DOWNTOWN PLAZ,~_ of TULSA 17 West 7th Street Tulsa, OK 918-585-5898 www.downtownplazatulsa.com HABANA INN 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESS\VAY Oldahoma City, OK 405-528-2221 www.habanainn.corn KELLY KIRBY, CPA 4815 S. HARVARD, SUITE 424 Tulsa, OK * 918-747-5466 Certified Public Accountant DREXEL ONTHE PARKAPTS. 3041NW41ST Oklahoma City, OK 405-946-0588 SUSAN HARTMAN Independent Broker Oklahoma and Arkansas 918-698-2977 CENTURY 21 GOLD CASTLE CLUB MAJESTIC 124 N. BOSTON Tulsa, OK 918-584-9494 www.dubmajestictulsa.com FINISHLINE 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE COPA 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE LEDO 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com DIVERSITY CHRISTIAN CNTR 211 S. Garnett Tulsa, OK 74128 www.realacceptance.com OUR HOUSE, TOO 203 N. Nogales Ave Tulsa, OK 74127 918-585-9552 3627 NW EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405-840-2106 www.c2 lgoldcastle.com HOPE TESTING CLINIC 3540 E. 31st Tulsa, OK 800-535-2437 Oklahoma’s HIV/STD Hotline CHUCK BRECKENRIDGE Keller Williams Realty Tulsa, OK 918-706-1887 SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC 2902 E. 20TH STREET, Joplin, MO * 479-529-8480 Service Saturday 9:30 AM GAY BRADY HHGHTS-Tulsa New and Historic Homes for Sale and Rent For Info: www.gayb radyheightstulsa.com MCC of the LIVING SPRING 17 Hk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 Want the STAR delivered to your home or business? 12 issues for $33.95 will be mailed in a sealed envelope the 1st of each month. Complete the form below and send with a check or moneyorder to: STAR 5103 S. Sheridan Rd., #153 Tulsa, OK 74145 (Single Copies $3.00 per issue) 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays 6pm GUSHER’S RESTAURANT 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 Located inside Habana Inn ANGLES 2117NW39thSt. Oklahoma City, OK www.anglesdub.com NA!vlE: NW ARKANSAS GLBT CENTER Bentonville/Rogers 888-391-9222 WWW.NWAGLBTCC.ORG City: 7204 E. PINE Tulsa, OK 918-836-8700 www.bambooloungetulsa.com www.ozarksstar.com St: __Zip: Phone: GLENPOOL FLOWERS 437 E. 141st Street Glenpool, OK www.glenpoolflowers.com BAMBOO LOUNGE Address: Check enclosed Money Order Start Date: 29 �Keller Williams Realty Chuck Breckenridge Whether buying or selling I’ll work hard for you. N~X/Arkansas GLBT Communiv! Center "Linking Together as One" For more information: 888-391-9222 WWW.NWAGLBTCC.ORG e-mail: EditorialCartoon@c 30 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com �YOU [] ~f one were to make a list of even after he became ~vorld-famous. the world’s favorite composers, Setbacks like these could have despite his relatively recent vintage finished a lesser man. Instead, they Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky would inibrmed his work, which remains be on it. After all, he composed some of the best loved in history. Swan Lake, which is perhaps the Yet kids still confuse Tchaikovsky with a nasal spasm. most famous ballet Why? Because the arts are slowly of all time. And but surely being eliminated from there can’t be more than a handful of some Peter llyich Tchaikot,sky endured many setbacks, not the l~st of which was a blind barber today’s schools, even though a F,g. 1 Pollen hke Tcha&o~sky’s compo~mon Romeo and Juhet ballet companies that don’t perform majority of parents The Nutcracker every Christmas. music and drama and dance and Indeed, this great Romantic composer should be so immortalized. As a young man, he pursued a career in art make their kids believe better students and better people. ’Rrm~nc music at enormous personal risk and against h~s To help reverse this disturbing father’s advice. His mild temperament combined with trend, or for more information his tendency to work too hard left him with inmmnia, about the benefits of arts education, visit us at debilitating headaches and hallucinations. On top of that, AmericansForTheArts.org. Or else Tchaikovsky could Tchaikovsky’s composition teacher never liked his work, seem like just another casualty of allergy season. www.ozarksstar.com recomrarwd~d daily allouur~ce of art, the STAR 31 �Reservations: 918.585.5898 ÷ 800.585.5101 Where you can be YOU" pee" ~oo~l ~oo~ ~ow=n f / 17 West 7th Street (corner 7th & Boulder Ave) e Tulsa, Ok 74119 ¢ www.downtownplazatulsa.com / �� Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data magazine Text Any textual data included in the document Royal GreCnCountrg Barony o~: dll Oklahoma pr~ent~s 2 the STAR www.ozarksstar.cor~ www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 3 ¯he Colors of Living", featuring giclee prints of the digital art ofTulsa artist Dennis R. Scott. ~O ONL~HOMA HATE CRII~flE Gay community outraged over Steven Domer slaying. NEW: Deep Inside Hollywood, reports on new projects for Sarah Jessica Parker and Dan Butler. November 21,1999 fine last grand Queen) Flamboyant author Quentin Crisp dies in Manchester, England. Tulsa’s Downtown Plaza Hotel openly welcomes GLBT. Gay Travelers: 6,000 Mile Trip Out of Town: Key West Dining In or OUT FIITHESS Introspection can lead you to better understand yourself and ultimately to achieve greater happiness. ON THE COVER: 4 the STAR Downtown Tulsa www.ozarksstar.com "Ifyou are elected President, what concrete steps would you take to overturn ’Don’t As~, Don’t Tell ?’" Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-NY): I strongly believe that anyone who has the courage, strength, and valor to serve our country should be able to do so. We are at war and our top generals are warning that America’s military is stretched to the breaking point, yet we have a policy that dismisses good people from our ranks. Even service members with critical skills such as Arabic language skills are being discharged because they are gay. Senior retired military officials who can speak freely say this law does not serve our national security interests. These same military leaders are confident that repealing Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell won’t lessen standards of behavior or lower morale. As President, I will work with high-profile military leaders, such as former Joint Chiefs chairman John M. Shalikashviii and Retired Lieutenant General Claffdia Kennedy, the first woman to achieve the rank of three-star general in the Army, who have called for repeal of the law. I will stand with soldiers like retired Marine Staff Sgt. Eric Alva, the first American soldier to be seriously wounded in Iraq, and retired Army Sgt. Jose Zuniga, former Army Soldier of the Year, who are shining examples of why this law no longer makes sense. Over the last seven years in the Senate, and as a member of the Armed Services Committee, I have built relationships with members of Congress and senior military officials through my work on the Armed Services Committee. When I am President, I will bring this strength and experience to bear to end this outdated and outmoded policy. w~,-w.ozarksstar.com the STAR 5 Denounces TULSA, OK (P/R) __ Oklahomans for Equality expresses its outrage at the recent murder of Steven Domer. "gge extend condolences to his family and friends. This senseless tragedy highlights the urgent need for federal and state hate crimes legislation protecting lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LBGT) people. On October 26th, Steven Domer, a 62-yearold gay man, was abducted from NW 39th Street near Pennsylvania Avenue in Oklahoma City. On November 4th, his body was found in rura! McClain County. His hands were tied with duct tape and a wire hanger was wrapped around his neck. The Oklahoma State Medical Examiner concluded that Domer died of asphyxiation and ruled his death a homicide. On November 28, Darrell Madden, a self-prodaimed white supremacist, was charged with first-degree murder and kidnapping in relation to Domer’s death. Prosecutors believe that Madden targeted Domer as part of an initiation rite of the Aryan Brotherhood. Inorder to secure a "patch," the white supremacist group demands that its members commit an act of violence against an African American, Jew, homosexual, or any other person declared "an enemy." Although Oklahoma County District Attorney David Prater and other law enforcement officials believe that anti-gay bias was a motivating factor in Domer’s murder, they cannot prosecute Madden under Oklahoma’s hate crimes law because the statute does not cover sexual orientation. Oklahoma is one of only 17 states whose hate crimes laws do not protect LGBT citizens. Most state hate crime laws enhance the penalties for bias-motivated crimes. On December 4, Representative Al McAf’- frey (D-Oklahoma City) announced his intention to introduce a bill expanding the state’s hate crime law to include sexual orientation and gender. In May, the U.S. House of Representatives passed The Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act/Matthew Shepard Act giving the Justice Department the power to investigate and prosecute bias-motivated violence by providing the department with jurisdiction over crimes of violence where the perpetrator has selected the victim because of the person’s actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability. This bill will soon be voted upon in the U.S. Senate. As legislators consider passage of these historic state and national laws, Oklahomans for Equality will be working with its allies in the LGBT and allied community in educational and advocaW efforts. Hate Crimes Amendment Removed rom Dept o£De£ense Con erence Report WASHINGTON, DC (P/R DEC 6TH) __ ~Ibday, House-Senate conferees confirmed that the Matthew Shepard Act, which had passed the Senate as an amendment to the Department of Defense Authorization bill, would be removed from the final version of the bill. This announcement was made after House Leadership’s whipping the vote count on the conference report concluded there were not enough votes for passage of the bill if it included the hate crimes provision. "Today’s decision is deeply disappointing, especially given the historic passage of hate crimes legislation through both Houses of Congress this year. After more than ten years and several successful bipartisan votes, it is heartbreaking to fall short this dose to the finish line," said Joe Solmonese, President of the Human Rights Campaign. "However, we are not giving up on efforts to find another legislative vehicle, in the second half of this Congress, to move the Matthew Shepard Act." The Human Rights Campaign has been a chief advocate of hate crimes legislation for over a decade. On November 14th, HRC sent an e-mail to all Capitol Hill offices urging the retention of hate crimes legislation in the Department of Defense Authorization conference report. Additionally, HRC organized and signed onto a coalition letter 6 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 7 Gny men and le~btansfac~ many special ta~ situations, whether single or a~ Let us help with yourTAX Prep! (918) 747-5466 Pmu~l~t ~¢r~lng Tulm ~ OKC’s GLBT comm~mitl~ ~lnc~ 1982 Chuck Bmckenddge 918-706~1887 "At Century 21 Gold Cas#e our BEST properties are ourPEOPL~ 3627 NW Expressway Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405.840.2t06 www.c21 goldcastie.com Let us promote your business in a UNIQUE & DIVERSE market. Call STAR ADVERTISING today. (918)835-7887 8 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com "’l-he Colors ofLiving’ a digital art exhibit at Dennis R. Neill Equality Center Tulsa artist Dennis IL Scotx eyes ofm~ artist driven to create impressions of the beauty which sttcrounds him. The exhibit w’dl remain up through the month ofJanuary and can be viewed Monday thru Saturday from 3-gpm. The Dermis R. Nedl Equality Center is located at 621 E. dth St., in downtown Tulsa. More info c~a be found on the web at okeq.org. ’Ihis monthly event is hosted by Okiahoman’s for Equality (OkEq). OkEq seeks equal rights for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexmal & Tra~sgender (LGBT) individuals and f~mihes through advoca~, education, programs, alliances, and the operation of the Dennis IL Neig Equality Center. TULSA, OK~The Dennis IL Neili Equality Center ar~ gallery wi[[ host its monthly First Thursday meet-the-artist reception from 6-gpm, ~aursday, January 3, 2008, for the opening oflts January exhibit "The Colors of Living", featu~mg giclee prints of the digital ~trt ofTulsa ~tist Dermis IL Scott. Scott has been creating his digital art for the list three years. His work is unlike most digital or computer art. His style is unique. His arc is totally his own..., his ovca~ way of seelng life, his own way of depicOng that which he sees. Whether one might call Scott’s art abstract, impressionistic, or surreal is of little concern to Scott. Through his art he invites the viewer, the art lover or even the mere observer, to take a chance, as he has in creating his art. Taking a chance is what ~rtists do. Vie~,Cmg Scott’s art is seeing his subjects as he sees them, through the Art byTulsa artist Dennis IL Scott the STAR 9 ES SLAY By Victor Gorin recently released convicts, Madden having served time at Jess Dunn Correctional Center for impersonating a police officer and obtaining money by false pretense. Quails had been released from the Dick Conner Correctional facility in Hominy for a 2001 burglary conviction. It was speculated that Mr. Domer’s murder may have been a gang rite of passage. The murder has garnered national attention, somewhat reminiscent of the murder of Matthew Shepard in Laramie, Wyoming in !998.A press conference was held at Church of the Open Arms December 4, followed by a candlelight vigil in the parking lot ofAngles that evening. The press conference and vigil were Photo: Steven Domer OKLAHOMA CITY, OK __ The Oklahoma gay community and their allies have been outraged and saddened by the murder of Steven Domer, a 62 },ear old Oklahoma City man believed to have been targeted primarily because he was gay. On October 26, he had driven a friend home from the N.W. 39th street gay bar district, then returned to the area, and was last seen at the car wash there, an area well known for male prostitution. He was seen by a witness to be talking to two young men. His body and burned out car were found near 1-35 and Ladd road north of Purcell November 4. Oklahoma County prosecutors have charged Darrell Madden with Domer’s murder. Madden, a white supremacist who was arrested in McLain County for an attempted carjacking, is also charged in McLain County with the murder of the Brad Qualls, the other man believed to be seen talking with Steven Domer the night he disappeared. Quails was found shot to death November 8 at an Ardmore apartment complex. Madden & Qua.lls have been identified as members of the United Aryan Brotherhood, a xvhite supremacist group which recruits many of their members in prisons. Both were 10 the STAR attended by the Reverend Harry Knox, the Faith Community Director of the Human Rights Campaign, a national GLBT rights political group. As he puts it," Oklahoma is one of only 17 states that do not protect GLBT citizens through hate crimes legislation." Objections to hate crimes legislation have come from religious fundamentalist groups who claim they would not be able to preach against homosexual behavior should this legislation become law. Harry Knox clarified that this type of speech is protected the 1st Amendment of the US. Constitution, and to say otherwise is " to tell a lie unworthy of ministers of the gospe! ofJesus Christ." He THE ALUES pointed out that "people are dying in Oklahoma, and GLBT people are wondering when their pastors will speak out for justice. Steven Domer’s voice cries out for justice, asking pastors for whom do they work, the people or for God?" Richard Ogden, an attorney who chairs the Cimarron Alliance Foundation also spoke, stating that" In Oklahoma and across our nation there is a climate of intolerance, and a tolerance of intolerance. This has to stop. When we in Oklahoma have passed laws that basically say that gays and lesbians are second class citizens, we create an environment that licenses this type of behavior. " Although this was a brutal murder that was obviously motivated because the victim was gay, Darrell Madden could not be charged with a hate crime because Federal and Oklahoma hate crimes laws do not cover sexual orientation. Legislation was introduced this year in Congress to amend Federal Hate Crimes laws to include sexual orientation by Senator Edward Kennedy D-Massachusetts, but was dropped when it became dear that it would not pass the House. On the state level State Representative Al McA_ffrey, Oklahoma’s first and only openly gay legislator, has stated that he will introduce legislation to amend Oklahoma Hate Crimes laws to include sexual orientation and gender. This is supported by both Oklahoma County District Attorney David Prater, and Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmondson. Mr. McAffrey did state that he realized he will probably be facing an uphill battle in the legislature. Clarifying the point that some conservatives make, that Hate Crimes laws elevate gay people to a special status, he affirmed that ifa group of gay men attacked a straight man ,vith baseball bats, targeting him for his sexual orientation, they would also be guilty of a hate crime under this legislation. Reverend Dr. Kathy McCallie, pastor of Church of the Open Arms-United Church of Christ, pointed out that this crime was not an isolated incident, stating that "there xvill be a day when GLBT persons can freely be themselves and enjoy the safety equality and respect that’s due to every member of the human family, but today is not that day. On October 26 when Steve Domer was brutally murdered, we were each violated. " ~w.ozarksstar.com By Greg Steele on the loose Wiads House ProvidingA Sa£e P lace For 20 By Victor Gorin Miranda Ray will be performing in the Kris Kohl Show New Years Eve At the Jones’n Club Downtown Plasza Hotel. Doxvntoxvn Plaza Hotel Tulsa General Managers Jay Wilks and Debbie Mc- Craw. Miss Gay Tulsa America, Melody Michaels at the BOO. Miss Gay Oklahoma US ofA 2008, Samantha West at the Copa.... Photo Left to Right:Jennifer Bates, Asley Ozan, Linda Duke OKLAHO!VIA CITY, OK __ Thanks to a caring community, Winds House of Oklahoma City was able to raise over $2500 at a gala fundraiser December 7th. For over 20 years the Winds have provided a safe place to stay for those living with HIV and their families, serving as transitional housing until they are able to re-enter the general community. The home provides referrals and assistance for disability income, food stamps, Section 8 housing etc. Donatons are always needed and can be sent to \Vinds House OKC, P.O. Box 12185 Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73157. Acid-tongued talk-show host and out lesbian Rosie O’Donnell, who famously dashed with Elisabeth Hasselbeck on "The View," and the big clash with Donald Trump announced on her bloc that talks to give her a prime-time show on MSNBC had fallen apart. New York Songstress Rachael Sage and an adoring fan in Tulsa. www.ozarksstar.com Attorney Richard Ogden, Chair of Cimarron Alliance Foundation, the Reverend Harry Knox- Faith Community Director of the Human Rights Campaign, and the Reverend Loyce Newton-Ed- ,#cards at Hate Crimes press conference in OKC. the STAR 11 DEEP INSIDE HOLLYVc’OOD Shades of Rex Lee As Lloyd, Jeremy Piven’s assistant on Entourage, gay actor Rex Lee has carved out a hilarious niche for himself. His character stuck around and gained a higher profile thanks to Lee’s wicked comic timing and popularity with fans. Soon, though, he’ll jump from the small to the big screen, appearing in the independent feature Shades of Ray. A seriocomic romance, Shades stars Chuck main man ZachatT Levi as Ray, a mixedrace, American-born son of a Pakistani father and Caucasian mother. As his parents separate and his father moves in with him, Ray must deal with his own romantic and racial issues. Sounds heartfelt and sincere, but Romeo’s guessing that Lee’s job will be to pop up from time to time with just the right punchline for an awkward moment. As HBO audiences know, he’s an expert at that. Romeo San Vicente is still waitingpatientlyfor the all-musical edition of "The McLaughlin Group. "He can be reached care ofthispublication or at DeepInsideHollywood @qsyndicate.com. www.ozarksstar.com SAMANTHA CAPTU ,S MISS GAY OKLAHOMA US OF A TITLE By Victor Gorin Loaves and Fishes Bar uet a Huge By Victor Gorin Photo Left to Right: Former Miss Gay Oklahoma Kitty Bob Aimes, Matthew Heath Fitzgerald, Sonja Martinez, John Beebe & Debbie Davie OKLAHOMA CITY, OK __ It was a festive evening at the Habana Inn December 9th xvhen the title for the nexv Miss Gay Oklahoma US of A was passed on to Samantha West, a 26 ),ear old Tulsan among the performers at Nexv Age Renegades, The 1st alternate xvas Londenn Raine, xvith 2nd alternate Jozlyn Welch. The xvinner and I st alternate are eligible to compete in the national competition which will be held in Dallas May 20-23 of next year. OKLAHOMA CITY, OK__ On December 3-4 the 17th annual Loaves and Fishes Banquet came together at the Copa for a fabulous evening of fundraising for a good cause. Featuring entertainers John Beebe, Sonja Martinez,Debbie Davie, Matthew Heath-Fitzgerald and former Miss Gay Oklahoma Kitty Bob Aimes, the event raised over $7200. Loaves and Fishes, a program of Catholic Charities, provides meals to homebound people living with HIV. Directed by Ms Judy Reilly, once again the community came together for a proud tradition of caring. Passing on the fide was Alexis Nicole Whitney, who made history with the pageant not just with her doe, but living proof that nothing can stand in the xvay of talent and determination. As she puts it, "People should see my blindness the same I do. I don’t see it as a handicap, but as an obstacle I have overcome." That she did, not only capturing the Oklahoma title but also was one of the top 12 finalists at the national competition. Our girls do us proud! Please Join Us Feb. 10, 2008, 10:00 p.m. @ 39th and Penn OKC, OK. For information call Nikki Start @ 580 216 2715 or 1 866 906 1133 the STAR 13 by Liz I-Iighleyman November 21, 1999 (%e last grand Queen): Flamboyant author Quentin Crisp dies in Manchester, England. The death of author and raconteur Quentin Crisp at the end of the 20th century represented the passing of one of the last grand queens of a bygone era. Crisp, originally named Denis Charles Pratt, xvas born on Christmas Day in 1908 in the London suburb of Sutton, the youngest child of a "middle-class, middle-brow" family. Always considered a sissy, he later said he could never remember not being tormented by his father, siblings, and schoolmates. Crisp studied journalism and art in London, and in his early 20s began hanging out with hip young gay men in Soho, supporting himself with various jobs, induding graphic artist, xvindow dresser, tap-dance instructor, and hustler. He adopted a new moniker and a flamboyant, effeminate style that included flowing scarves, platform shoes, dyed hair, and makeup. He was "not merely a self-confessed homosexual, but a self-evident one," he would later say, describing himself as "a blithe spirit reveling in androgynous anarchy." Openly gay and gender-variant at a time when homosexuality was highly stigmatized and sex between men was illegal, Crisp was frequently attacked by strangers in the streets and harassed by police. During World War II, he was exempted from military service due to his homosexuality, and instead embarked upon a career as a nude model at a government-funded art school. Crisp did not gain widespread notoriety until his 60s, with the publication of his autobiography, The Naked Civil Servant (1968), one of the first unapologetic contemporary accounts of gay life. Although the book was well-received, it was the 1975 television movie version starring John Hurt that brought Crisp instant fame. Crisp began appearing on talk shows and created a successful one-man theatrical performance. He took his show to Ne~v York City in 1978, fell in love with America, and decided to immigrate a few years later, settling into a notoriously sloppy one-room apartment in a seedy neighborhood on Manhattan’s Lower East Side. Crisp became a fixture of the city’s celebrity scene, growing increasingly famous just for being himself. "If I have a talent for anything," he said, "it is not for doing but for being." He wrote a column for the New York Native newspaper and film criticism for Christopher Street magazine, and published several more books, including How to Become a Virgin (1981) and Manners from Heaven: A Divine Guide to Good Behavior (1984). He also appeared in a number of movies and documentaries, most notably as Queen Elizabeth I in Orlando (1993). Though he socialized in queer social circles, Crisp was unsympathetic to the gay rights movement and held attitudes many younger activists regarded as homophobic. "I don’t think you can really be proud of being gay because it isn’t something you’ve done," he once said. "You can only be proud of not being ashamed." He eschewed identity politics and queer separatism, and thought loud demands only led to backlash. Crisp persisted in referring to homosexuality as an illness, and he caused a furor when he told the London Times in 1997 that he thought it would be acceptable for a woman to abort a fetus carrying a hypothetical gay gene. "You could have children who are naturally suited to society," he later explained. "They would be happy." He also once opined that the gay community’s obsession with AIDS was a fad, and advised, "Ifyou want to be sure you won’t have AIDS, don’t have sex with anyone." ....................Continued page 27 14 the STAR vwvw.ozarksstar.com The nose can intrigue you or turn off about a wine. Smell is the wine taster. Much is taste comes through you don’t believe it, t or a meal - the next head cold. Aging the wine in oak es of vanilla, almonds. Extended lend a toasty scents as variable as leather to roses Many grapes aromas: Zinfandel often Pinot Noir, the fine may recall ~ may Chenin and, smell The aroma of ~ ! and the closely related Mergrape~ for e×ampie, often reminds of cedar wood and pine needles led with a ood fruit smell reminiscall to miner France: www.wunsch-mann.fr 2005 www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 15 TRAVELING IN OUR FABULOUS WORLD By Donald Pile and Ray Williams gaytravelers@aol.com Now everything IS okay in Oklahoma! The gay community and gay travelers to Tulsa now have a place where they are made to feel VERY WELCOME! We stayed there a couple of weeks ago and it was wonderfull. "l-he rooms are spacious and the staff is extremely friendly and professional. ~-he renovations are not finished yet, however we know that when it is completed that it will be the finest hotel in Tulsa. We stayed in the Premier Suite which was on a scale of one to ten, a 15 ! It featured a living room with pull out queen sleeper sofa, a 36 inch TV and DVD Player. Ceiling to floor (and wall to wall windows) for a spectacular view of the city. A large King bedroom with extra pillows, a 25 inch TV in the bedroom and dub chair and ottoman. Two full bathrooms and a kitchenette/dining area with coffee maker, fridge/microwave and a snack basket, microwave popcorn and cookies with bottled water. ~he Downtown Plaza Hotel ofTulsa was built in 1966 as the first downtown hotel in Tulsa to offer modern conveniences. Shortly afterwards it was a Holiday Inn, then a Ramada Inn, then as the Great Western Hotel. In July, 2007 it was sold to the Chisholm Properties, Ltd. and they renamed it back to it’s original name, "Downtown Plaza Hotel ofTulsa". The Chisholm Properties Ltd. the STAR owns other fine hotels in Oklahoma, Missouri and Texas. It is located at 17 West 7th Street in the heart of the beautiful historica] financial and entertainment district ofTulsa. They are directly adjacent to the world famous Petroleum Club. It rises 14 stories above the City and is currendy undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation. A VERY extensive renovation is now underway however they do have at this time, over 70 rooms for their guests. Their plan is for the renovations to be completed by May, 2008 and have over 200 rooms when completed. The new look for the hotel is based on modern boutique style hotels that are now found across the country and Europe. The hotel has a variety of rooms and suites to choose, from a Deluxe Double Queen, Deluxe King, Executive King, Executive King Junior Suite or the Premier King Suite. Each suite has a Fridge/Micro in the kitchenette. Their prices are extremely down to earth and much less than the other dmvntown hotels. The hotel is within a short walking distance to Tulsa’s Convention Center, the New The PAC (Performing Center, Tulsa Tech and many buildings and landmarks. ; the many amenities are: floors, business weddings & receptions, air- ~ort shuttle free Cherokee Casino [ wireless Internet, covered parking, guest laundry ~n site), fax & copy service. Their service includes 43 channels, 3 4 ESPN channels, i Nick, Food Network and r more. The Downtown Plaza equipped with a Fitness Center their guests, including strength and cardio equipment. Lounge around their outdoor pool and catch some rays, secluded by the urban environment ofTulsa’s rooftops. Just inside the poolside seating area is The Jones’N Club, a full bar with a pool table and live music. Conference, meeting and banquet rooms are available to accommodate groups of 10 to 250 guests. ..............Continued page 27 w~w~,.ozarksstar.com More on Camp La Casa Sena - Santa Fe, New Mexico see page 22. From the upper sundeck at the Oasis men’s resort, guests enjoypanoramic views ofKey West’s Historic District. (Photo by Andrew Collins) Key West: Where To Play, Eat, and Stay famous gay resort towns, Key West has always stood out for its sheer embrace of total relaxation. This laid-back tropical island in the Caribbean, closer to Cuba than to mainland Florida, is without pretensions. People rarely worry about what time it is, dress is casual and colorful, and the party scene is friendly and easygoing. Key West is neither fancy nor especially urbane - it’s just a great place to laze in a deck chair on a bougainvillea-choked lanai, browse for beachwear and souvenirs along the main drag, Duval Street, or relax on a restaurant patio noshing on raw oysters and sipping mango iced tea or mojitos. For a seasonal tourist town, Key West has plenty to offer when it comes to dining and nightlife. Few places draw more raves for outstanding food than Alice’s Key West, where chefAlice Weingarten serves some of the most inventive food in town, including delicious smoked-salmon Benedict at breakfast. A departure from Key West’s predominant laid-back tropical look, Square One is a sophisticated restaurant with white table linen and fine china. The regionally inspired Continental cuisine includes escargot baked in a crepe with fresh spinach, garlic, feta, and a tomato beurre blanc. It’s a top choice for a romar~.tic evening. One of the better Italian restaurants in town, and also one of the gayest, La Trattoria has two dining rooms - the smaller one romantic and intimate, the larger better for groups of friends. The straightforward cooking draws high praise for such tasty creations as local shrimp sauteed with garlic, fresh tomatoes, and herbes de Provence in a white wine, lemon, and butter sauce. One of Dural Street’s true places to be seen, Mangoes brims with colorful sorts. The composed salads, pastas, and grills - all with nouvelle Florida touches - are commendable. Consider rib eye steak Caribe (pan-charred with tamarind steak sauce and yucca). Seven Fish, which occupies an old luncheonette and has a sleek, sophisticated interior, serves seafood-oriented bistro fare, such as crab and shiitake mushroom ravioli. The slogan at Mangia Mangia is "pasta to the people," a philosophy reflected by the many varieties of heavenly homemade pasta, all fairly priced. The painstakingly preserved building has a lovely, quiet garden and redbrick patio in back. You’ll need luck and persistence most nights to get a seat at Camille’s, a small storefront bistro, but the friendly vibe and downhome comfort food are worth the trouble. Expect good salads and sandwiches, such as Philly cheese steak, and delicious pancakes for breakfast. For arguably the best sandwiches and wraps on the island, try Lobo’s - the oyster roll with cheddar, bacon, and basil tartar sauce is a stand-out. H Siboney is a zero-atmosphere eatery - _the_ place in town for humble, stick-to-your-ribs Cuban fare. Rickety tables are set with plastic tablecloths and paper napkins. Try such Havana specialties as conch chowder, garlic chicken, stuffed shrimp and crabs, platanos (plantains), and a sweet flan to top it off. As for traditional Cuban sandwiches, tiny 5 Brothers Grocery - on a side street in the historic district - serves the best around. Much of the gay social activity in Key West takes place at resorts, some ofwhich provide refreshments and snacks to guests during the afternoon and early evening. A handful of properties have bars open to the public, among them Pearl’s Rainbow, the town’s only guest house exclusively for women, and the ultra-cruisy, all-male Island House, which also has an excellent restaurant. Most the town’s gay bars are along Duval Street. Here, the La-Te-Da guest house has a poolside bar, an intimate piano bar, and the Treetop Cabaret Lounge upstairs. Down a few blocks, the New Orleansinspired Bourbon Street Pub is a cheery place with a small bar up front with cocktail tables, a larger outdoor bar in back (along with a lively pool area and hot tub), and video screens galore. Many nights you can catch awful (but still entertaining) drag shows on the stage in back. The same owners run the lovably raffish 801 Bar, Key 20 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com West’s definitive neighborhood hangout since the 1970s. There’s almost always a crowd of gossipy locals around the bar. The adjacent One Saloon caters mostly to leather-and-Levi’s types and is reached through 801’s back door. Aqua Nightclub is best lmown for its raucous drag shows, which are headlined by the in-house drag troupe, the Aquanettes. This lively place also has strippers some nights, an impressive dance floor with high-tech laser-and-sound shows,’ and a cozy video bar. Key West has a number of inns that cater either exclusively or predominandy to the gay market. One of the best is Alexander’s, a long-popular gay resort with the relatively unusual policy of being both clothing-optional and welcoming to both women and men. This makes Alexander’s ideal for gay guys traveling with lesbian friends, or for any queer vacationers who enjoy a mixed-gender atmosphere. The effect is that the mood around the pool and hot mb tends to be less cruisy than at single-gender resorts. Aromatic tropical flowers, sundecks, rattan and wicker furnishings, and sparkling tiled bathrooms impart Alexander’s with a classy but casual look. Also welcoming of both women and men but drawing a predominantly male crowd, Big Ruby’s is less than a block from Dural Street, hidden behind high walls from noise and street traffic. The grounds feature towering palm trees and fragrant flowers, and an abundance of sundecks. Rooms are warm, contemporary, spotless, and full of light - all have TVIVCRs, mini-refrigerators, A/C, and ceiling fans. A complimentary full breakfast is included. As for the staff, you won’t find a more professional bunch of guys in Key West. Most of the town’s men’s resorts are along Fleming Street, the Historic District’s main drag. Here you’ll find Equator, which has plush rooms with contemporary Caribbean-influenced furniture. Designer fabrics, feather pillows with comforters, Mediterranean-tile floors, large closets, and excellent sound insulation add to the comfort of each unit. The tradeoff is that the Equator’s grounds, although nicely landscaped, are smaller than at some of its competitors; there’s a compact pool and an oversize Jacuzzi tub. For years the sprawling Island House - a former cigar factory on the eastern edge of the Historic District - was synonymous with sex, sleaze, and shabbiness. It’s still synonymous with sex. But, happily, new owners have completely rebuilt the place, hired friendly and competent staff, and created lovely rooms with high-quality furnishings (all have VCR/TVs, refrigerators, safes, and plttsh linens). If you’re seeking a steamy ambience but also first-rate accommodations and a safe, friendly environment, the Island House is your dream come true. Amenities, all of them available 24 hours, include heated pool, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis, gym, sauna, steam room, and erotic-male-video lounge. The largest gay resort in town comprises three distinct properties - the Oasis, Coral Tree Inn, and Coconut Grove - operated by the same management. This highly social, all-male compound has rooms available in a variety of configurations and prices. The Coconut Grove is the fanciest of the three, having been completely gutted and redone following a fire in 2006 - it now has some of the cushiest accommodations in town. Next door, the Oasis has less pricey but still attractive rooms and beautiful grounds. Across the street, the Coral Tree has simpler but more affordable rooms. Guests are free to enjoy the grounds of all three properties. Another all-male property with a somewhat cruisy vibe is the New Orleans Guest House, an attractive compound that’s above the Bourbon Street Pub, right in the center of the Dural Street action. Rooms are well-outfitted and attractively decorated, and rates moderately priced. Known as the Rainbow House until new owners took over a several years ago, the 38-room Pearl’s Rainbow is Key \Vest’s only resort that’s exclusive to women. Rooms are nicely done, with rattan and wicker furniture, pastel-hued walls, large TVs, and refrigerators. Many different configurations are available, from simple budget-oriented units set away from the noise of the pools and decks, to more spacious rooms doser to the action, some with kitchenettes or separate sitting areas. The resort encompasses several buildings, including some cute cottages that once provided housing for the workers of a cigar factory that formerly occupied the main building. There are two heated pools, spacious sundecks, and lots of opportunity to chat with other guests. This is a wonderful hideaway, whether you’re looking to make new friends or enjoy a litde peace and quiet with your honey. www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 21 by Donald Pile & Ray Williams Featuring Cuisine From Coast to Coast La Casa Sena - Santa Fe, New Mexico W’e have been dining at La Casa Sena in Santa Fe for over 25 years and it just keeps getting better. Located right downtown, it is one of the most popular and critically acclaimed restaurants in the Southwest. Not only is the food some of the most delicious you’ll ever taste, the wine list is among the finest in the country. Whether dining inside or out on the patio, you are in for a real treat! "l-he ambiance, the food, the setting...... everything is fabulous! La Casa Sena occupies a fine old haciendastyle adobe complex and means "the Sena House." q-he Sena family was one of the oldest and most notable in Santa Fe. q-he founder of the family, Bernadino de Sena, was an orphan from Mexico City who traveled to Santa Fe in 1693. In the early 1980% the ravages of rime finally began to take a toll on the hacienda. Art dealer, Gerald Peters purchased the historic building and extensively renovated it without making any architectural changes. The restoration succeeded in keeping the historic ambiance and integrity of the Sena Plaza intact. Th-he Southwestern cuisine served at La Casa Sena draws on the rich history of the region. Th-heir distinctive red chile is grown for the restaurant near Dixon, on the Rio Grande in northern New Mexico. The harsh weather there means that this local product is not plentifi~ and, because the restaurant purchases virtually the entire crop, it is unlikely that this chile will be tasted anywhere else in the world. They are located right off the Plaza in downtown Santa Fe at 125 East Palace. q-heir dinner hours are Sunday thru Thursday: 5:30 - 10:00 PM and Friday & Saturday: 5:30 - 10:00 PM. Lunch: 11:30 _A!vl - 3:00 PM Monday thru Saturday and 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM on Sundays 22 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com People Wi h A D$ LITTLE ROCK, ARK __ Republican Presidential candidate and former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee once advocated isolating AIDS patients from the general public, opposed increased federal funding in the search for a cure and said homosexuality could "pose a dangerous public health risk." As a candidate for a U.S. Senate seat in 1992, Huckabee answered 229 questions submitted to him by The Associated Press. Besides a quarantine, Huckabee suggested that Hollywood celebrities fund AIDS research from their own pockets, rather than federal health agencies. "If the federal government is truly serious about doing something with the AIDS virus, we need to take steps that would isolate the carriers of this plague," Huckabee wrote. City Resident Ray Prewitt aooept New I ovie SANTA FE, NM (P/R) __ Oklahoma City resident, Ray Prewitt, will take on the role of"Owen" in the Jim Sheridan helmed "Brothers" for Relativity Media. The film stars Natalie Portman, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Tobey Macguire. Shooting began last week on this remake of Susanne Bier’s Danish-language war drama which centers on a man, (Maguire) who is sent to fight in Afghanistan while his black-sheep brother (Gyllenhaal) cares for his wife (Portman) and child. Prewitt, who recently appeared in Carpenter Square’s "Sordid Lives", is best known as the producer of "Call Us Crazy: The Anne Heche Monologues" which achieved theatrical cult status in Los Angeles featuring stars like Edie McClurg, Alex Borstein, Megyn Price, and Scott Thompson. This is Prewitt’s second time to share the screen with Portman since "Where the Heart Is" .i"n 2000. "I think the government’s role should not be involved in personal habits. When you defend freedom, you defend freedom of choice, and you can’t be picking and choosing how people use those freedoms...whether it’s personal behavior or economic behavior, I want people to have freedom of choice," Paul asserted. He believes the constitution says such issues should be left to the states to decide, and ira state chooses to legalize marijuana, cocaine, heroin and/or prostitution, so be it. Presidential candidate Rep. Ron Paul, R-Tex www.ozarksstar.com The STAR 23 Chaz & Victor By Ronald Blake Twenty-eight retired generals and admirals released a letter Friday urging Congress to overturn the ban on gays serving openly in the military, according to "l-he New York Times. The letter cites information showing that 65,000 gay men and lesbians are currently serving in the military and that there are more than 1 million gay and lesbian veterans who have "served our nation honorably." ~have been indulging myself lately with the finer aspects of food and beverage. I have acquiesced with my body’s cravings for rectangular chocolate delights that are known to the masses as Snickers, Three Musketeers, and Whatchamacallits. I have given in to the luscious temptations of the all-powerful supreme pizza with its smothering array of toppings and guilt. I have even fallen prey to the hypnotic sexual commercial suggestions of the beer and booze barons of this fair land. Yes, I have been greedily imbibing the works of the great fermentation experts such as Adolph Coors and August Busch. How can I possibly engage in such extreme epicurean behavior and still manage to put on my jeans without a forced smile? Ofcourse I will disclose the many and varied means by which I make this feasible. Each day I lace up my sneakers and head out on a seven mile romp through my neighborhood streets and enjoy the festively adorned homes. This provides me the opportunity to dear my mind and breathe in all those particulates from city living. It also affords me the chance to count the expanse of calories I burn off: in the process. I usually get credit for 800 calories each day from this physical activity mode. I am that guy who finds the parking space on the periphery of the mall parking lot. ~llais is not a forced choice in response to all the holiday shoppers. I actively seek out the spot that is closer to the frontage road than the stores’ entrances. This gives me the excellent opportunity to partake in the lost art ofwalking somewhere. Chalk up another couple hundred calories burned in a week’s time. Every other day I don my favorite ripped Guns N Roses T-shirt and my faded periwinkle Russell Athletic shorts and ease into 26 the STAR my workout roudne. I set my bicep, quadriceps, and triceps muscles into a sweet synergistic syncopation. I dedicate thirty minutes for every session and I am proudly able to record several hundred singed calories for that day’s effort. Some ofmy other calorie consuming moments has involved the firm scolding of my car and leaving him alone in the garage while I set out down the block to get the mail. I have often abandoned the comforts ofmy plush settee and even ignored the puppy dog eyes from my cuddly ottoman so that I could walk around the living room while discoursing with the likes ofmy Aunt Chilada on the telephone. Friends have even chided me for spending disproportionate time with the steps and hand railings of building stairwells than with the numbered buttons and "The Girl from Ipanema" music from elevators. Thankfully for me, these mundane activities afford me a cornucopia of numerous extra burned calories. I am able to consume more of the Food Network creations than the average Punch and Judy because of my lifestyle. My gourmand way of life would soon dissipate if I would slink into the slothful practices of most ofmy fellow brethren. Free will gives you that chance to change it all starting today. I could certainly use some company on those lonely stairwells! This health and fitness column is brought to you by that guy who likes to count the times people say the phrase "you know" in their conversations. That gny is Ron Blake and he can be unwrapped at www.goblakefitness. com Creating Community for People living with H V/A1DS A 501 c (3) Non Profit Organization Our House, Too offers a variety of activities for people who are HIV+ and or living with AIDS to help combat the social isolation that many of our people live through each and everyday. We provide a Toiletry and Household Pantry for those who are HtV+ and or living with AIDS who cannot afford to purchase these items for themselves. We invite anyone who would like to volunteer or provide financial assistance to please contact us by phone 918-585-9552 or e-mail hardsmmjr@yahoo.com. ~wtw.ozarksstar.com Q~UENTIN CRISP DOWn,TOWN PLAZA DERAILED HATE CRIMES Indeed, Crisp was celibate for the latter half of his life. When sex therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer asked him what he thought about sex, he said he thought it was a mistake. He was also cynical about love, saying he didfft really understand it, and he never had an enduring romantic relationship. Had he lived in a different era, Crisp might have identified as transgender rather than gay. "I believe I was born unfit for the world not because of anything to do with sex, but because of gender," he told one interviewer. "I have always felt like a woman born into a man’s body. Had I the money or the opportunity early in life, I would certainly have had a sex change." Though his work brought in a fair amount of money, Crisp lived a spartan existence, subsisting on hors d’oeuvres and champagne at parties. With a "lust for small talk," he held court at a local diner and devoted time to answering phone calls, letters, and e-mails from friends and strangers alike. He loved being the center of attention, and rarely turned down an opportunity to be interviewed or photographed. In his final years, though beset by health problems, he nevertheless continued to travel and perform. Crisp died of a heart attack in Manchester, England, in November 1999, just a month shy of his 91st birthday. While some may find his flamboyant style and effeminate mannerisms embarrassingly stereotypical today, Crisp is remembered for being himself- and paying the price - at a time when few others dared to do so. Though he avoided organized LGBT activism, his entire life was a demonstration of gay and transgender empowerment. For further reading: Bailey, Paul, ed. 2000. The Stately Homo: A Celebration of the Life of Quentin Crisp (Bantam). Crisp, Quentin. 1996. Resident Alien: The New York Diaries (HarperCollins). ~e hotel is the ONLY Tulsa hotel that is openly caters to everybody! The Lounge at the Downtown Plaza will start in January hosting Ms. Kris Kohl and will present a drag show every other Friday. They will also be hosting a Broadway touring company during the summer of 2008. Chisholm Properties, Ltd. has a complete non-discrimination policy to cover, Age, Religion, Nationality, Race, SF~VUAL ORIENTATION, Disability, Veteran Status and other individuals as protected by Federal, State and Locals Laws. The General Manager, Jay Wilks is a former flight attendant instructor and former owner of a small specialized aircraft charter tour company, award winning fit and art shop and an upscale gay magazine that was distributed in 7 States in the Southeast. The Assistant General Manager, Debbie McCraw is a former schoolteacher, Texas ranch foreman, homemaker and mother. With all of their combined hidden talents we KNOW that they will make a success in this new venture. Both Jay and Debbie are two of the nicest, friendliest and professional people that you would ever want to meet. They truly care about their guests and want them to have a very pleasant time while staying at the hotel. The front desk staff as well as the housekeeping staff are very friendly and professional. Next time you are going to be in Tulsa be sure to check out their website at www. downtownplazatulsa.com or give them a call at 800.585.5101 for reservations. Their local number is 918.585.5898. Or for those people living in Tulsa who are wanting to rent a conference or party site, give them a call. Always remember to have fun when traveling, meet new people and talk to everyone! TRAVELING IN OUR FABULOUS WORLD is written by Donald Pile and Ray Williams, Award-winning Celebrity travel columnists who write for gay publications from Coast to Coast. Proud members of the IGLTA. You can email them at: gaytravelers@ aol.com or visit their webpage at: http://www.hometown.aol.com/gaytravelers sent to the Chairman and Ranking Members of the Armed Services Committees urging them to retain the Hate Crimes amendment as part of the conference report. Timed to correspond with Members returning from the Thanksgiving recess, on November 28th, HRC launched a nationwide action alert to all of its members urging immediate grassroots action to Members of Congress. The House of Representatives passed the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act (H.R. 1592) in May with a strong bipartisan vote of 237-180. The Senate approved the nearly identical Matthew Shepard Act (S. 1105) as an amendment to the Department of Defense Authorization bill on a voice vote after a 60-39 cloture vote. Inclusion of the hate crimes provision in the final version of the bill fell victim in the House to challenges from opponents of hate crimes as well as unrelated concerns regarding Iraq-related provisions of the bill. The hate crimes veto threat issued by the White House and organized opposition by House Republican Leadership cost significant numbers of votes on the right. Iraq-related provisions that many progressive Democrats opposed cost votes on the left. Moderate Democrats, many ofwhom voted for the hate crimes bill in May, did not want to test the President’s veto threat and risk a delay in increased pay for military personnel. ’All of these factors resulted in insufficient votes to secure passage of the bill with the hate crimes provision. 2~he Matthew Shepard Act gives the Justice Department the power to investigate and prosecute bias motivated violence by providing the Department with jurisdiction over crimes of violence where the perpetrator has selected the victim because of the person’s actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability. The legislation also provides the Justice Department ,vith the ability to aid state and local jurisdictions either by lending assistance or, where local authorities are unwilling or unable, by taking the lead in investigations and prosecutions of violent crime resulting in death or serious bodily injury that were motivated by bias. The Act also makes grants available to state and local communities to combat violent crimes committed by juveniles, train law enforcement officers, or to assist in state and !ocal investigations and prosecutions of bias motivated crimes. www,ozarksstar.corn the STAR 27 Just as the sun spends a month of every year in each sign, Jupiter, in his 12-year cycle, spends about a full year in each sign. Fresh into Capricorn, he will help to build up organizations and bureaucracy. The coming year will be a big one for the mature look, leather, and bondage. This week’s horoscope will be valid through the year! ARIES (March 20 -April 19): Socialize with important folks. Those doors are wide open to you. Looking respectable and conservative will help you get ahead. Even in the most buttoned-up crowd, people know the power of appearance. TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): If you have unfinished school business or want to go for a degree, sign up for those classes! Otherwise, delve into ancient philosophies or go traveling to historical, even archaeological places on your own initiative. GEMINI (May 21 - June 20): Not that you need the help, but your sexual magnetism is charging up. Trying to look young will not help. Maturity, experience, and authority all work in your favor. If you’ve been wanting to explore leather and kink, this is the time for it! CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Look toward formalizing an existing relationship or refining your criteria for one. Not only can you afford to be picky, but holding out for what you really want in your partnership will help you get it. LEO (July 23 - August 22): Any skin growths or bone or joint inflammations should be checked quickly, but in general your health should be good. Luck at work should improve. Look forward to promotions and be willing to take a risk to get them. VIRGO (August 23 - September 22): Some people think creativity is about mad inspiration. You know it’s about hard work. Your hard work can pay off big - probably more in terms of personal growth, but there could be money, toot LIBRA (September 23 - October 22): Researching your roots, taking time with older relatives, or spending time with community elders will give you a better sense not only of your background and foundations, but also of where you’re going. SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): Your mind needs stimulation and novelty, and you’re a bit more loquacious than usual. Be careful with that! Developing new skills, perhaps learning a new language, will open doors and help keep you focused and out of trouble. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 - December 20): This should be a very lucky year for you for money - investments, lottery tickets, new businesses - but, it’s also "easy come, easy go." A conservative attitude and long-range perspective will prove most profitable. Consult an astrologer with your full birth chart before taking any big chances! CAPRICORN (December 21 o January 19): You’re in for a spell of good luck. Just be yourself and you’re sure to get ahead. There’s no point in being shy. Go for any opportunity that feels right. Further education and travel can serve you especially well. AQUARIUS (January 20 - February 18): Blessings will come to you in disguise. If life gets hard, the troubles can easily be made into a springboard to tremendous luck. Volunteer work with venerable charities will prove advantageous in the meantime. PISCES (February 19 - March 19): Social opportunities will open up for you more easily if you "work the system" and follow conservative, conventional methods. Hobnob with "important people," but what’s "important" is subjective. Of course, those who don’t look or think like you can be important, too! C® METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCHES Spirit of Chdst MCC 2902 E 20th Street Joplin, MO 64804 417-529-8480 Worship Saturdays at 10:00 AM Community Meal Wednesdays at 6:00 PM MCC of the Living Spring 17 Elk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays at 6:00 PM Have a God filled and BleSSed Day! 28 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com DOWNTOWN PLAZ,~_ ofTULSA 17 West 7th Street Tulsa, OK 918-585-5898 www.downtownplazatulsa.com HABANA INN 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESS\VAY Oldahoma City, OK 405-528-2221 www.habanainn.corn KELLY KIRBY, CPA 4815 S. HARVARD, SUITE 424 Tulsa, OK * 918-747-5466 Certified Public Accountant DREXEL ONTHE PARKAPTS. 3041NW41ST Oklahoma City, OK 405-946-0588 SUSAN HARTMAN Independent Broker Oklahoma and Arkansas 918-698-2977 CENTURY 21 GOLD CASTLE 3627 NWEXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 73112 405-840-2106 www.c2 lgoldcastle.com CHUCK BRECKENRIDGE Keller Williams Realty Tulsa, OK 918-706-1887 GAY BRADY HHGHTS-Tulsa New and Historic Homes for Sale and Rent For Info: www.gaybradyheightstulsa.com GUSHER’S RESTAURANT 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 Located inside Habana Inn ANGLES 2117NW39thSt. Oklahoma City, OK www.anglesdub.com BAMBOO LOUNGE 7204 E. PINE Tulsa, OK 918-836-8700 www.bambooloungetulsa.com www.ozarksstar.com CLUB MAJESTIC 124 N. BOSTON Tulsa, OK 918-584-9494 www.dubmajestictulsa.com FINISHLINE 2200 NW39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE COPA 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com THE LEDO 2200 NW 39TH EXPRESSWAY Oklahoma City, OK 405-525-0730 www.habanainn.com DIVERSITY CHRISTIAN CNTR 211 S. Garnett Tulsa, OK 74128 www.realacceptance.com OUR HOUSE, TOO 203 N. Nogales Ave Tulsa, OK 74127 918-585-9552 HOPE TESTING CLINIC 3540 E. 31st Tulsa, OK 800-535-2437 Oklahoma’s HIV/STD Hotline SPIRIT OF CHRIST MCC 2902 E. 20TH STREET, Joplin, MO * 479-529-8480 Service Saturday 9:30 AM MCC of the LIVING SPRING 17 Hk Street Eureka Springs, AR 72632 479-253-9337 Worship Sundays 6pm NWARKANSAS GLBT CENTER Bentonville/Rogers 888-391-9222 WWW.NWAGLBTCC.ORG GLENPOOL FLOWERS 437 E. 141st Street Glenpool, OK www.glenpoolflowers.com Want the STAR delivered to your home or business? 12 issues for $33.95 will be mailed in a sealed envelope the 1st of each month. Complete the form below and send with a check or moneyorder to: STAR 5103 S. Sheridan Rd., #153 Tulsa, OK 74145 (Single Copies $3.00 per issue) NA!vlE: Address: City: St:__Zip: Phone: Check enclosed Money Order Start Date: 29 Keller Williams Realty Chuck Breckenridge Whether buying or selling I’ll work hard for you. N~X/Arkansas GLBT Communiv! Center "Linking Together as One" For more information: 888-391-9222 WWW.NWAGLBTCC.ORG e-mail: EditorialCartoon@c 30 the STAR www.ozarksstar.com YOU [] F,g. 1 Pollen hke Tcha&o~sky’s compo~mon Romeo and Juhet ~f one were to make a list of the world’s favorite composers, despite his relatively recent vintage Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky would be on it. After all, he composed Swan Lake, which is perhaps the most famous ballet of all time. And there can’t be more than a handful of ballet companies that don’t perform The Nutcracker every Christmas. Indeed, this great Romantic composer should be so immortalized. As a young man, he pursued a career in music at enormous personal risk and against h~s father’s advice. His mild temperament combined with his tendency to work too hard left him with inmmnia, debilitating headaches and hallucinations. On top of that, Tchaikovsky’s composition teacher never liked his work, Peter llyich Tchaikot,sky endured many setbacks, not the l~st of which was a blind barber even after he became ~vorld-famous. Setbacks like these could have finished a lesser man. Instead, they inibrmed his work, which remains some of the best loved in history. Yet some kids still confuse Tchaikovsky with a nasal spasm. Why? Because the arts are slowly but surely being eliminated from today’s schools, even though a majority of parents believe music and drama and dance and art make their kids better students and better people. To help reverse this disturbing ’Rrm~nc trend, or for more information recomrarwd~d daily allouur~ce of art, about the benefits of arts education, visit us at AmericansForTheArts.org. Or else Tchaikovsky could seem like just another casualty of allergy season. www.ozarksstar.com the STAR 31 Reservations: 918.585.5898 ÷ 800.585.5101 Where you can be YOU" pee" ~oo~l ~oo~ ~ow=n f 17 West 7th Street (corner 7th & Boulder Ave) e Tulsa, Ok 74119 ¢ www.downtownplazatulsa.com Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource [2008] The Star Magazine, January 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 1 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource January 01, 2008 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Image Online text PDF Language A language of the resource English Subject The topic of the resource Politics, education, and social conversation over LGBTQ+ topics Description An account of the resource The Star Magazine’s first issue began February of 2005. Before this issue was Ozarks Pride (2004) and The Ozark Star (2004). Follows is The Metro Star (2008). This magazine discusses topics of AIDs, education, politics, local and national civil rights of the LGBT community, and advice for relationships and places to visit. This collection is PDF searchable. Physical copies are also available to be seen at the Dennis R. Neill Equality Center with permission. Type The nature or genre of the resource magaine Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Southwestern Missouri Western Arkansas Southeastern Kansas Eastern Oklahoma The United States of America (50 states) Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Star Media, Ltd Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Star Media, Ltd Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Greg Steele Paul Wortman James Ninmo Joey D. Victor Gorin Romeo San Vicente Andrew Collins Donald Pile Ronald Blak Ray Williams Jack Fertig Liz Highleyman Devre Jackson Chaz Ward Victor Gorin Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://history.okeq.org/collections/show/19 Relation A related resource The Star Magazine, December 1, 2007; Volume 4, Issue 12 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/204 The Star Magazine, February 1, 2008; Volume 5, Issue 2 https://history.okeq.org/items/show/245 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context https://history.okeq.org/items/show/246 AIDS anti-gay violence art cartoons classifieds crime denouncement Deep Inside Hollywood Dennis R. Scott Don't Ask Don't Tell Downtown Plaza Hotel-Tulsa fitness hate crime health Hillary Clinton HIV/AIDs horoscopes Loeves and Fishes Melody Michaels Mike Huckabee Miranda Ray Miss Gay Oklahoma New Year Our House Past Out Q Scopes Quentin Crisp Quotable Quotes Ray Prewitt Samantha West Star Advertisers Star Scene Steven Domer Syphilis testing Tchaiovsky The Colors of Living Too travel Winds House