NOV. 1, 2007 - The Rainbow Times

4 • November 1 - Dec. 5, 2007 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesmass.comIn ‘The Name of God’Billboard Assault Spreads Hatred (BASH)?By: J.M. Sorrell/TRT Columnist & WriterThe billboard on southbound I-91 (seephoto) near the Basketball Hall of Famein Springfield, Massachusetts depictsState Representative Angelo J. Puppolo,Jr. (D) as a “traitor” to the New JerseybasedNational Organization forMarriage’s (NOM) definition of marriage.According to their web site, NOMintends to target each of the 11Massachusetts legislators who had previouslysupported a ballot measure to considerreversing the SJC decision ofNovember 18, 2003 that put into lawequal marriage rights for same-sex couples.After perusing nationformarriage.org, Icontacted NOM’s executive director,Brian Brown, to give him an opportunityto explain his billboard campaign and toask questions about the statements on theweb site’s “Why Marriage Matters”pages as addressed to Catholics,Protestants, and Jews.Mr. Brown said, “The billboard speaksfor itself.” At first, Brown was open toan interview, but when I told him I waswriting an article for TRT, he abruptlyended the conversation: “I make it a policynot to do interviews with moreextreme magazines.”It is interesting to note that organizationssuch as NOM and the Coalition forMarriage & Family purport so-calledprincipled stances while refusing opportunitiesto explain themselves clearly.From what I know, MassEquality, on theother hand, offers dialogue and reiterationopportunities to all forms of media.What is it that NOM fears?I spoke with Representative Angelo J.Puppolo, Jr. in a telephone interview lastweek. After nearly 45 minutes, I feltmoved by the depth, honesty and intentionof service that Puppolo brings tooffice. Readers should go to www.puppolo.comto learn more about this man, tooffer financial support and/or for volunteeropportunities. His district includesEast Longmeadow, Wilbraham, and borderingareas of Springfield such as EastForest Park.JM/Q: On June 14, 2007, you joinedwith your peers to vote against takingaway the civil right of marriage to samegendercouples. Today, do you stand bythis decision?Representative Puppolo/A: Yes.Certainly when I came to the decision tokeep the question off the ballot, I came toit with a lot of discussion and meetings inmy home area—with a broad base I cameto the conclusion it is wrong to take awayrights. I feel stronger as each day goes by.I have received hundreds of emails supportingthis decision and each day, moreand more compelling stories reinforcemy decision. I stand by it and I am proudof it. Just yesterday, I received an emailfrom a man who was denied access to hispartner in the hospital four years ago, andhe wanted to thank me for ensuring thatwould not happen again.Q: What would you like to say about the“National Organization for Marriage”and their billboard campaign to demonizeyou as a traitor?A: I think it is unfortunate that an out ofstate group would come into theCommonwealth to spin a mean-spirited,divisive message. It simply confirms mybelief that, had this been on the ballot,mean-spirited behavior would have beenperpetuated for a long period of time. Ifthey [NOM] want to help families, theyshould spend their resources to work withfamilies and children in need.Q:What is your most important guidingprinciple in legislative work?A: Prior to elected seat, I served on theCity Council for nine years inSpringfield. I have an ability to listenand to show the compassion neededLetters to the Editor from Page 2only accepted gays but also bisexuals andtransgender people. I didn’t want to becategorized in the same group with them,thinking that in some way, it would reflectme, that people would think that I wantedto be a woman, or something. (youngignorance!)when representing a group or individuals.I take long-term outcomes into consideration.I will sit down with any group andI engage in a thoughtful process to get todecision making.Q: Most western countries have federalprotections for same-sex couples. Theymay be called marriage, civil unions, ordomestic partnerships. Do you believethat our federal government should offerthis protection? Why or why not?A: Massachusetts is groundbreaking anda role model for other states. States arefollowing, and that is the process andstronghold of our country.Q: Any final words?A: I would like to thank the communityfor continued support, politically andfinancially, and for your well-wishing. Ithas been overwhelming for me. Those ofus who do the right thing are doing well.Call or write if you want to work withme. We’re in this business to help people—andnot just the majority and not totake things away. My legal backgroundassisted me in this decision.Other opinionsIn western Massachusetts, Senator GaleD. Candaras (D) is also on the billboard“hit list” as someone who changed hervote from favoring a ballot measure thatmay have led to a constitutional amendmentto ban same-sex marriage. I spokewith her Chief of Staff, Aaron Saunders,about Candaras’ thoughts on NOM andthe billboard campaign.JM: Does Senator Candaras stand by herdecision today?AS: Yes, she has received overwhelmingsupport from her constituency. Herentire district, not just LGBT families,but also neighbors of these families whooriginally opposed same-sex marriage,urged her to support their lesbian and gayneighbors.A pivotal point [prior to June 14] waswhen dozens of LGBT families attendeda community forum at SpringfieldCollege where religion was discussed. Itbecame clear that many families areaffected by this.This billboard serves as a reminder thatwe want to put this behind us. A ballotmeasure would have waged a campaignof hate with an inundation of out of statemoney.Senator Candaras works in the bestinterest of the Springfield area [her districtalso includes Wilbraham, EastLongmeadow, Ludlow, Belchertown andGranby], and important issues such as thepoverty rate in Springfield drive heragenda.Candaras’ statement to the BostonGlobe on June 14, 2007 included thispassage: “I also want to address directlyone of the more contentious issues in thisdebate. Same gender couples have beenadopting children and building familieshere in the Commonwealth for abouttwenty years. In many instances, samegendered couples have adopted childrenwith severe challenges, children no oneelse wanted, and they have worked miracleswith them. These children wouldhave lived lives of despair without thesefamilies. This underscores how we cannotafford to marginalize any of our people;make anyone second-class citizens.We are all precious resources to eachother, and to generations yet to come.”See BASH Page 10However, as I needed my communitymore and more, through the beating frommy brother, through the loss of communicationwith my parents, I realized why thesewonderful people were included in my community!They understood me, accepted meand celebrated me because they knewwhere I was in my life! This is why inIndiana, we call people in our GLBT community,“FAMILY”! We are ALL family.With the amazing progression out here inMassachusetts, it is sometimes easy to forgetabout the connecting links that we haveas a Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, TransgenderFAMILY! With the constant segregation ofour vibrant, small community; Men onlydances, unaccepting lesbians, andTransgender Pride; We will have no reasonto accept, educate, love and support eachother.The idea that it may not “be enough” tobe included in gay pride marches for sometransgender people, saddens me. Yes, weneed to tackle legislative issues for thetransgendered members of our community,but I think we would be more effectivedoing it as a whole! There is no better feelingthan to march down the street withtons of people from all walks of life thatare together as one. I accept and cherishthe transgender people in my community,but sometimes “enough is never enough”.It may not be accepted by many, butthat’s just my opinion. We must sticktogether, as one community! Together wewill continue to progress and be that rolemodel community that many parts of ourcountry need! Separated, we will begin tolose why we are considered “family”.Grateful for your work and dedication,—Adam Brogan, NorthamptonDear Editor,I found The Rainbow Times in Albany. Iam wondering if you are going to continuetargeting this community. We have neverhad anything like The Rainbow Times, butI loved the first issue, especially the storyabout the companies that cater to theGLBT market. I didn’t know how manydidn’t and now that I am aware, I say“shame on you for segregating us and notwanting our business.” I will definitelytake my business elsewhere from now on!—J. Randall, Albany NY

6 • November 1 - Dec. 5, 2007 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesmass.comQueer Local NewsTrans discrimination by UMASS campus employeeBy: Gricel M. Ocasio* /TRT PublisherSept. 19, 2007 was just another day thatshe encountered discrimination. Thistime, a UMASS employee disregardedher request, although she was properlydressed as a woman. She is just anothermale-to-female (MTF) transgender personwho has faced discrimination.“The officer from the UMASS ParkingServices Department came to me andasked me to move my car while repeatedlycalling me “’sir,’” said Lara Lane, aWestern Mass. resident, who distributesnewspapers on campus. “When I askedher to address me as ‘Ms.,’ she simplyreplied ‘yes, sir.’”Lane filed a complaint with theUMASS Police Department on that day.The officer completing the report fromthe UMASS Police Department, SergeantMark L. Jacques, stated in it that heinformed Lane that “a non-criminalreport would be filed, as I (he) did notbelieve it met the standard for criminaldiscrimination, but that a report would beon file to document her coming in.” Thereport ended with the words: “No actionrequired by this department.”However, that was back in September.As of the last week of October, TRTreceived information about the UMASSParking Services Department’s decisionto offer its staff training on trans issues.The Training will be provided by theUMASS Amherst Stonewall Center.“We’re doing a two-hour transgendertraining for the UMASS ParkingServices and everyone from the directorto the clerk will take part in it,” saidBrett-Genny, Janiczek Beemyn, Ph.D.,Director, the Stonewall Center, UMASS,Amherst; Co-Chair, Consortium ofHigher Education LGBT ResourceProfessionals; Board Member,Transgender Law and Policy Institute.“We do awareness and education training.We talk about why it’s important toaddress trans issues and talk about theexperiences of trans people. We gothrough terminology and talk about practicalworkplace issues.”After receiving no response fromMichael Brennan, Director of ParkingServices, UMASS, TRT was contactedby a UMASS spokesperson on his behalf.According to Ed Blaguszewsky, UMASSDirector of the News Office, the training& The Rainbow Times.JUSTICE OF THE PEACE SERVING LGBTQ COUPLESCHRISTINA CAVALLARI &GARY GOLECSERIO’S MARKET OWNERSSerio’s fromPage 5homemadesoups, and hotdishes inhouse.We doall kinds ofplatters [suchas] sandwiches,cheese &crackers, veggie/munchiesetc. We also[offer] groceryhome delivery which a lot of stores havegotten away from.”According to Cavallari, there are noplans for expansion at this time.“One place keeps us very busy,” saidCavallari. “We also like being present inour Business to give it heart and feeling.”It is unclear who will be the next in lineto take over the market when the timecomes, according to Cavallari and heris something that Brennan mentioned tohim as “being helpful for the staff to raiseawareness and sensitivity.”“In matters like this we do not commentin detail,” said Blaguszewsky. “Theparking people view this in terms of theparking attendant who is involved as apersonal matter, which we do not discusswith the press. Parking Services will beconducting its trans training in coordinationwith the Stonewall Center early inNovember.”Trainings can occur before or after anincident has taken place. However, it ispreferable to have them before an incidenttakes place, according to Brett-Genny.“It would be better if companies andinstitutions were to recognize the needfor education around LGBT issues at theonset and not have to address the issueonce there has been an incident of discrimination,”said Brett-Genny.According to Ten Strategies To ImproveTrans Inclusiveness on Campus, writtenby Brett-Genny, “more than 40 collegesand college systems have added ‘genderSee Discrimination on Page 11Photos by: G. M. Ocasiohusband, Gary Golec.“We do not have anyone who hasexpressed a desire at this point,” saidCavallari. “Gary has three children andwe have nieces and nephews. I did notthink I would have taken it over and mygrandmother worked until she was 90. Soyou never know!”Serio’s Market is located at 65 StateStreet in downtown Northampton. Formore information about their productsand services, call Chris or Gary at 413-584-2633.THE HONORABLEJ. MARY SORRELLA MEMBER OF OUR TRIBEJM the JPHave you met theLOVE of YOUR LIFE?All couples, odd and beautiful, deserveto be recognized.My commitment is to serve each andevery couple to meet your unique needs,from simple to large weddings (and everythingin between).Secular, spiritual, inter-faith, and couples I have not yet imagined shouldcall me! Peace, JMAlso serving heterosexual couples. “Some of my best friends ...”413.427.4153 • email: jm@jmthejp.com]

“A Thousand Miles,” the ubiquitous hitsingle from her 2002 debut Be NotNobody, earned singer-songwriterpianistVanessa Carlton Grammy nominationsfor Record and Song of the Year.Now on a new label and releasing herthird album, Heroes and Thieves—whichincludes lead single “Nolita Fairytale,”an ode to the New York ’hood she movedinto three years ago—the 26-year-oldspun us a few yarns about her heroineStevie Nicks and the gays who’ve stolenher heart.Q: The low sales of your sophomorealbum Harmonium, which featured thecontroversial single “White Houses,” ledyou to get dropped by A&M Records. Doyou have any regrets?Vanessa Carlton: As I’m promoting thisrecord, I thank God for Harmonium,because there was a fork in the road aftermy first record, and I opted for the harderpath. I think in the end it’s going to payoff so much more for me in terms oflongevity. I would’ve had regrets if I’dtaken a slicker path that wasn’t a reflectionof my own aesthetic, but had maybesold more records.Q: In the “Nolita Fairytale” video, a taxismashes the infamous piano from the “AThousand Miles” video. Does that meanyou’re officially over that single?A: I looked at it more like you have toclose a book to open a new one. It was[director] Marc Klasfeld’s idea to run thepiano over. At first I just saw the humorin it, but as I thought about it, I was like,Wow, this is a big, bold statement, but animportant one. So it was like, let’s remindpeople of the girl on the rolling piano—because that image was bigger than thesong and me—and then destroy it so wecan start anew.Q: What’s so great about Nolita?A: Aside from the fact that I walk to thewww.therainbowtimesmass.com • The Rainbow Times • November 1 - Dec. 5, 2007 • 7corner and hear four different languages,there’s so much interesting stuff goingon. Just walking down the street, I’minspired by the people that I see expressingthemselves artistically. They alsohave great dive bars, which I reallyappreciate! My favorite hole-in-the-wallis Ruby’s, which I mention at the end of“Nolita”: “Ruby’s in the afternoon.” ButI’m nervous because I don’t want peopleto go to Nolita! I feel protective of it. Idon’t want it to be completely infiltratedEntertainment Q’lebritiesFairytale Princess: Carlton’s new album is the fairest of them allVANESSA CARLTONPhoto by: Kurt Iswarienkoby tourists, which it already is.Q: Now that you’re on The Inc. Records,were you nervous about working withexecutive producer Irv “Gotti” Lorenzo,who’s best known for collaborations withartists like Ja Rule, DMX and Jay Z?A: I was until I met him. When I played,he was running around the office screamingobscenities—all in a good way. I wasjust like, This guy is so refreshing! Allpreconceived notions popped, because inthe end, we really respect each other andmake each other better. That’s the ultimatefor any partnership, romantically orprofessionally—making the other personbetter at what they do and who they are.Q: Tell me about your gay fans andfriends.A: I love the gays! All my gay boys andgirls are great, and I have a lot of verycute gay boyfriends. I have so manyfriends in healthy relationships whoaren’t able to get married. There’s somuch oppression in this society that itfeels oppressive to me as well. Actually, Ireally wanted [the Harmonium track]“Who’s to Say” to be a gay anthem.Q: Have you performed at gay clubs?A: I just recently performed at a lesbianclub in Albany, and the radio station thatput the show on didn’t evenSee Carlton on Page 9413-569-0000

8 • November 1 - Dec. 5, 2007 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesmass.com

By; Dr. Renee LangQuestion: I am a lesbian and my youngerbrother recently came out as gay. Sincethen, we have both been disownedbecause my family thinks it is all achoice. I know it is not a choice for me,but has there been any scientific proofthat being gay runs in the genes? Couldthat explain why my brother and I areboth queer? I would like to be able tocombat the situation with facts and notjust emotions.—Nancy E., Easthampton, MADear Reader,I am sorry to hear about your family’sresponse to your and your brother’s sexualorientation. I hope to provide someclarification to you and other reader’sregarding the genetic component ofhomosexuality.In short, there is no definitive scientificproof showing a direct link betweengenetics and homosexuality. Sexual orientation,like other complex humanbehaviors, result from both genetic andenvironmental factors. Certain traitsdirectly pass down from genes, includinghair and eye color. Homosexuality is notlike hair color.The media information about the gaygene arose from three different studiesconducted in the 1990’s. The first studydone in 1991 examined the brains of 19gay men and 16non-gay men.The studyrevealed that anarea of the hypothalamuswasslightly smaller inthe gay men ascompared to theheterosexual men.The researcherDR. RENEE LANG concluded that agenetic component of gayness existed.However, there was no discussion ofwhether or not AIDS may cause theshrinking or if that particular area of thebrain controls sexual behavior. Thesmall study size precludes any ability tomake a statistical assessment.The next study in 1991 found higherrates of homosexuality among identicaltwins (about 40-50%) than fraternaltwins (about 25%) and adopted siblings(about 5%). This study points to thewww.therainbowtimesmass.com • The Rainbow Times • November 1 - Dec. 5, 2007 • 9probability that a genetic componentexists for homosexuality. However, ifpurely genetic, all the identical twinsshould be gay. In addition, other subsequenttwin studies do not duplicate theseresults.Finally, the third study by Hamer in1993 studied pedigrees and determinedthat “gayness” in men was passed on viathe X chromosome from mothers. Is thatscience or a stereotypical thought aboutgay men? From that conclusion, helooked at the X chromosome and foundthat a high percentage of the gay men inthe study shared a region of genes.However, he did not study the percentageof this “gene” in heterosexual men.Another study in 1999 did not find anyregion on the X chromosome specific togay men.At first thought I wonder why thesestudies are being done. I wonder whymoney flows to this topic as opposed toother life threatening conditions. SomeHealth NewsIs there a gay gene? What are the facts?In conclusion, no gay gene exists. No single genetic factorcauses homosexuality. However, due to the increased likelihoodof homosexuality in family systems, a genetic componentdoes exist.of the justification seems to revolvearound legality and discrimination,meaning discrimination against genetic“conditions” is unacceptable. In addition,some possibly internalized homophobiaseems to exist around this topic.“Do you think I would choose to be thisway?” “I was born this way!”Homophobia is a social/political/religiousconstruct, one that I don’t thinkneeds to be supported by defining homosexualityas a genetic disorder.In conclusion, no gay gene exists. Nosingle genetic factor causes homosexuality.However, due to the increased likelihoodof homosexuality in family systems,a genetic component does exist.Sexual orientation results from a combinationof genetic and environmental factors.Family and social expectations andbeliefs contribute, past incidences oftrauma and abuse contribute, and so domany other factors. We rarely discusshow all of these things also contribute tobeing nice, being generous, and being aconsiderate person. However, all of thatcontributes to those complex behaviorsas well. This article provides my bestunderstanding and interpretation of thecurrent research.* Dr. Renee Lang is the owner of PioneerNaturopathic Medicine in Northampton andin Brattleboro, Vermont. Submit your questionto Dr. Lang at TRT’s website (HealthSection).Carlton from Page 7know—and these were big, scary girls.[Laughs] A lot of times these stations arenarrow-minded, so I was so glad theystumbled upon it by accident. It was afunny, special little secret I knew but theydidn’t.Q: Speaking of lesbians, how was workingwith producer Linda Perry?A: I did my first batch of songs with her,so it dictated the direction of the recordand made me realize what I wanted it tosound like—like it came out on vinyl in1972. That was inspired by her vibe andall her cool vintage gear.Q: How did your split earlier this yearfrom Third Eye Blind’s Stephan Jenkins,Nov 18 2007; 8:00P; Park West Chicago, ILNov 20 2007; 8:00P; Joe’s Pub, New York, NYNov 21 2007; 8:00P; Birchmere, Alexandria, VANov 22 2007; 8:00P; Mod Club; Toronto, CanadaNov 24 2007; 8:00P; Cabaret; Montreal, Quebecwho also co-produced your album, influencethe record?A: We all learn so much from our relationships.Not just regarding that relationship,I’ve had so many life lessonsand evolved a lot these past few years. Iwork out questions and find the answersthrough writing—but sometimes I don’tfind the answers. The last song on thealbum, “More Than This,” is about myfavorite idea in life: At any given time,Finding You the RIGHT One, Not Just Anyone• Personal, Discreet,Respectful• People are who they say theyare ...• We welcome Singles of allLifestyles• An affordable serviceLanie & Bud, Company Founders“We met through a dating service.”Vanessa Carlton Upcoming Tour DatesWe understand ...• It’s hard to meet the rightperson.• You are busy and wantmatches chosen just for you.• You might not want to meetsomeone in a bar or at work.• You don’t want your personalinfo for all to see on theInternet.(413) 665-3218 • massmatch.com • massmatch@comcast.netyou can choose to be peaceful, you canchoose to be happy and not crave anythingmore than what you have. That’sobviously directed at someone else,wishing for them to understand that aswell.Q: You’re young, pretty, famous, andyou even dated another celebrity. Howhave you avoided tabloid attention?A: Well, I don’t live in L.A., and I don’tseek it out. You create your own reality. Ijust hate getting my picture taken and Ihate clubs. I like old bars where it seemslike Hobbits or ghosts would be.Q: So no rehab for you anytime soon?A: Hopefully not. [Laughs] You neverknow, though. We’re all fragile, aren’twe? We all have our vices.FMI: www.vanessacarlton.com. Heroesand Thieves (The Inc. Records/UniversalQueer Cinema You Can’t Miss!Southland Tales (LESBIAN)Genre: Comedy, Musical, Sci-Fi, ThrillerRating: Not yet rated; Director: Richard Kelly;Starring: The Rock, Seann William Scott, SarahMichelle Gellar, Cheri Oteri; Release Date:11/14/07; Synopsis: Futuristic comedy that takesplace in Los Angeles July 4, 2008. Cheri Oteriplays a villainous lesbian bodybuilder.Priviledged (GAY)Genre: Drama; Rating: Not yet ratedDistribution: Limited ReleaseDirector: Jonah Salander; Starring: Julian Morris,Aaron Ashmore; Release Date: 12/01/07Synopsis: A closeted gay teen (Morris) tries todestroy the relationship between a girl and theboy he secretly loves.The Walker (GAY)Genre: Drama; Rating: Not yet ratedDistribution: Limited Release; Director: PaulSchrader’ Starring: Woody Harrelson, LaurenBacall, Kristin Scott Thomas, Lily Tomlin, NedBeatty; Release Date: 12/07/07Notes: Premiered at 2007 Berlin Film FestivalSynopsis: Carter Page III (Harrelson) is a gayWashington, D.C. gentleman who escorts thewives of rich and powerful men to public events.He is closest to Lynn (Bacall), who, one day, findsher lover stabbed to death. By trying to protecthis friend and cover up her affair, Carter tells herhusband (Willem Dafoe) that he found the body,and thereby becomes the prime suspect.Almost Myself (TRANS)Genre: Documentary; Rating: Not yet ratedDistribution: Limited Release; Director: TomMurray; Release Date: TBANotes: Premiered at 2006 NewfestSynopsis: Director Tom Murry explores the livesof a group of diverse MTFs in this documentary.Be Real (LBGT)Genre: Documentary; Rating: Not yet ratedDistribution: Limited ReleaseDirector: Bobbie Birleffi and Beverly KopfRelease Date: 00/00/00; Notes: Premiered at2006 Miami Gay & Lesbian Film FestivalSynopsis: The two directors went in search of sixextraordinary LGBT individuals across the country.This film tells their stories.

10 • November 1 - Dec. 5, 2007 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesmass.comEducationUNH:Gay men discriminated against more at work than gay womenNORTHAMPTON, MA—The 14thannual Chocolate Dessert Buffet & SilentAuction will be held on Sunday,November 11 from 2 to 5 p.m. at theClarion Hotel & Conference Center, OneAtwood Drive, Northampton. Proceedsbenefit AIDS CARE/Hampshire County.For a $15 donation, chocolate loverscan sample more than 70 chocolatedesserts donated by local restaurants andbakeries. While enjoying the sweets,attendees are invited to participate in thesilent auction. Bids will be accepted on avariety of donated items including artwork,books, clothing, gift certificates,gift baskets, performance tickets andweekend getaways.Proceeds benefit AIDSCARE/Hampshire County, a non-profit,DURHAM, N.H. (AP)—Employersdiscriminate more against gay men inmany jobs than against gay women in theworkplace, according to new research.University of New Hampshireresearchers found that gay men who livetogether earn 23 percent less than marriedmen, and 9 percent less than unmarriedheterosexual men who live with awoman. Discrimination is most pronouncedin management and blue-collar,male-dominated occupations such asbuilding, grounds cleaning and maintenance,construction and production,according to the study by UNH'sWhittemore School of Business andEconomics.Lesbians, however, do not experiencesimilar discrimination in the labor market,according to Bruce Elmslie, professorof economics, and Edinaldo Tebaldi,a former assistant professor of economicsnow at Bryant University. Their researchappears in the Journal of Labor Researchin the article “Sexual Orientation andLabor Market Discrimination.”The authors also found that lesbians arenot discriminated against when comparedwith heterosexual women. Theyconclude that while negative attitudestoward lesbians could affect them, lesbiansmay benefit from the perceptionthat they are more career-focused andless likely to leave the labor market toraise children.According to the study, 18.1 percent oflesbians have children, compared with49.4 percent of straight women.Northampton-based agency that providescomprehensive support services and casemanagement services for people livingwith HIV/AIDS. AIDSCARE/Hampshire County is a programof Cooley Dickinson Hospital. At the2006 event, more than $32,000 wasraised.The Friends of AIDSCARE/Hampshire County support the“Employers could reasonably infer thata lesbian applicant or current employeewill have a stronger attachment to thelabor force than will a heterosexualwoman,” the authors said.The authors note that previous studiesof attitudes of heterosexual men towardgay men and lesbians shows that the biasagainst gay men is much stronger.“Employers may disapprove of gaylifestyles and act on this bias in makinghiring decisions,” the authors said.Employers also may discriminate againstgay men in response to the desires ofother employees. If employers considermixing heterosexual and homosexualemployees distracting and detrimental toproductivity, the authors said the employersmay consider it profitable to discriminate.Gay men also may be discriminatedagainst because customers may not wantto interact with them, thus influencinghiring practices. “If customers prefer tointeract with heterosexual employees, theowner will act on the customer

BCT: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor DreamcoatCast members include 12 Gay men from the MA area“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor able to incorporate a lot of gay humorDreamcoat,” The Biblical saga of Joseph that everyone will enjoy.”and his coat of many colors comes to Proceeds from these performances govibrant life in this delightful musical into the BCT Scholarship fund that isparable.available to a South Hadley High SchoolThe Black Cat Theater, in their 22nd senior going on to college to further theiryear, is rehearsing and gearing up for education in the arts.their annual fall production at the South Set to an engaging cornucopia of musicalstyles, from country-western andHadley High School auditorium onNovember 7-11th. Wednesday November calypso to bubble-gum pop and rock 'n'7th is “Friends and Family Night” with roll, this Old Testament tale emerges bothdiscounted tickets for all. The Thursday, timely and timeless. This year's cast featuresNick Adams of Amherst as JosephFriday and Saturday performances have a7:30 pm. curtain. There are also Saturday and Seana Lamothe of Northampton asand Sunday matinees with a 2:00 p.m. the Narrator. There are also over 20 performersin the cast, a six piece band andcurtain.This year's cast features 12 men from a 24 member children's chorus.the local gay community playing several “A show like this brings a lot of peopleroles. This is a trend that started last year out of the woodwork to get involved"with BCT's production of "South Pacific" said director and cast member Mattin which most of the male chorus consistedof gay men from the area.involved from Springfield, Chicopee,Meers of Easthampton. "We have people“We have seasoned performers and Northampton, Granby and as far away asguys who have never been on stage Conway and Greenfield. It's a real communityeffort to put on a show of this sizebefore taking part in this show,” saiddirector and cast member Matt Meers of here in South Hadley".Easthampton. “Directing a show with For ticket reservations call 563-6023 orthis many gay men involved, I've been email dlarder@mtholyoke.edu.www.therainbowtimesmass.com • The Rainbow Times • November 1 - Dec. 5, 2007 • 11QEntertainmentDiscrimination from Page 6identity or expression to their policies inthe last decade.” However, at theStonewall Center’s website (under theCampus Transgender Guide), UMassAmherst, the guide reads, does not have“gender identity or expression” in itsnondiscrimination policy.It further clarifies that The StonewallCenter is leading an effort to amend thepolicy.According to Lane, all she wanted wasthat the officer be reprimanded accordingly,and to receive an apology fromher.“It doesn’t seem like that’s going to bethe case,” said Lane. “I did not evenhear about the training until recently,and frankly, I did not expect mucheither. I hoped that the company Iworked for would advocate for me, butthey didn’t care about my issue, but[rather] their truck. I will have to watchout for myself even more.”* Gricel M. Ocasio is the Publisher ofTRT, and a graduate of Temple Universitywith over 16 years of experience in the publishing/journalismfield.Albany, Troy, Schenectady, NY?NO PROBLEM!TRT518.391.2617413.204.8959Vote ForGloria A.DeFillipoCity CouncilOn November 6“I’ve fought for quality of life issues for residents of this city. I ama strong leader who can fight to move Springfield forward.”www.gloriadefillipo.comPaid for by the Committee to Elect Gloria A. DeFillipo.

12 • November 1 - Dec. 5, 2007 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesmass.comGay TravelingOut of Town: Weekend in Austin, TexasFBy: Andrew Collins*ast-growingAustin has beenone of America'smost talked about citiesover the past decade, havingnot only increased itspopulation by nearly 50percent but also solidified its reputation asan ultra-cool place to live and visit. Thefact that Austin is oppressively hot for afew months each summer is about its onlymajor negative. As autumn approaches,however, Austin cools off again - and thismeans the city's myriad cafes, lounges,music clubs, and gay hangouts sizzle withactivity.If you've been to this left-leaning - especiallyby Texas standards - city before, sayfive or more years ago, you may havetrouble recognizing it. The downtownlandscape has been transformed by recentlyconstructed office and hotel towers, anda fantastic new airport makes travelinghere a breeze. Here's a recipe for enjoyingthe perfect three-day weekend in thisupbeat, welcoming metropolis.Consider staying in the funky downtownWarehouse District, with its bounty ofboth gay and gay-friendly bars as well aship restaurants and offbeat boutiques.Worthy recommendations include themost glamorous hotel in town, theIntercontinental Stephen F. Austin, anopulent 16-story beauty with marblebaths, 1920s-era furnishings, and twicedailymaid service. Perfectly appealing yetless pricey downtown alternatives includethe Radisson Town Lake, whose roomsface the scenic Colorado River (known asTown Lake in this part of the city), and theHampton Inn and Suites, an attractive,reasonably priced mid-rise opened a fewyears ago.Across the river, within walking distanceof downtown, you'll find anotherexcellent lodging base, the retro-trendySouth Congress district, home to the cleverlyrestored Austin Motel. Many rooms atthis quirky slice of '50s-style Americanahave tile floors, kitchenettes, Jacuzzi tubs,and kidney-shaped patios. There's an onsiteMexican restaurant, El Sol y La Luna,that turns out fiery, kick-ass huevosrancheros and carne asada. A few blocksaway, the swankier Hotel San Jose isanother old motor court that's been given apostmodern, minimalist makeover. Thespacious courtyard suites are downrightposh (and pricey), but a simpler thoughThe Healing WayDr. Renee Lang, NDNaturopathic DoctorServing 2 locations:16 Armory St., #9Northampton, MA 01060Phone: 413.582.0303Fax: 413.582.0355www.thehealingway.netstill snazzy room with a shared bath runsfor under $100 nightly. Entertain guests inthe hotel's scene-y lounge-cum-coffeehouse.On Friday, your first night in town,decompress after your flight or car ridewith a relaxing, informal meal at one ofthe city's well-regarded purveyors of Tex-Mex, such as Guero's or Manuel's. A formerfeed store that's now a fabulous taqueria,Guero's serves some of the bestMexican fare in central Texas—from standardbut artfully seasoned tamales to moreinnovative creations like marinated grilledpork on a corn tortilla with onions,cilantro, and fresh pineapple. Fancier thanmost of the Mexican restaurants in town,Manuel's is a sleek, deco-inspired space inthe Warehouse District with a sassy littlebar in back.After your meal, it's time to check out atleast a couple of Austin's inviting gay bars—it's a topsy-turvy scene in these parts,with one or two bars coming and goingseemingly every year. But you can consistentlycount on there being roughly a halfdozen gay bars downtown, mostly concentratedin the Warehouse District.Worthwhile options on Fridays include therelatively new Rain on 4th, which openedin the Warehouse District in 2006, and hasa lovely deck out back, a cozy billiards barup front, and a mid-size dance bar in themiddle; and Charlie's, the city's oldest gaybar, which lies in the shadows of the statecapitol building. Go-go boys performinside, and there's a spacious deck in back.If you're looking to keep it mellow yourfirst night, have an after-dinner cocktail,fruit smoothie, or espresso drink at thestylish Halcyon Coffeehouse and Lounge,a hipster-infested, gay-friendly hangoutacross the street from Rain on 4th.Rise and shine on Saturday morningwith breakfast at one of Austin's moreeccentric nosh pits, Magnolia Cafe, whichhas branches along South CongressAvenue and also just west of downtown onLake Austin Boulevard. The delicious,filling breakfast specialties range from the"Solar Landscape" (seasoned grilled potatoes,red onions, and ham topped withqueso and chipotle sauce) to hefty gingerbreadpancakes bursting with blueberries.Very close to the South Congress neighborhood,you can take to the outdoors andwork off some calories with a strollthrough beautiful 350-acre Zilker Park, afine spot to tan your hide on sunny days.The park's spring-fed Barton Springs200 Clark Ave.Brattleboro, VTPhone: 802-254-4369The gay section of Hippie Hollow Park is a favoriteAustin hangout on weekend afternoons.Pool, a popular and enormous swimminghole, remains an invigorating 68 degreesyear-round, so bring along a swimsuit ifthe weather's nice.Austin's best outdoor attraction, however,is Hippie Hollow Park, which hugs theshores of stunning Lake Travis, about a30-minute drive west of town. This is theregion's only official clothing-optionalsunbathing spot. The gay section, whichdraws substantial crowds on just aboutany day with temperatures above 65degrees, lies at the very end of the pathwaythat leads from the parking lot. Onweekend afternoons you'll often see pleasureboats packed with cute guys dockedjust offshore. Break for refreshments witha meal at the Oasis, a massive outdoorcompound set high on a bluff overlookingthe lake and Hippie Hollow - it's a shortdrive from the park. The mediocreMexican food at Oasis won't win any culinaryawards, but the views and the potentmargaritas make this a winner.On your way back into town, treat yourselfto some truly heavenly ice cream atAmy's, a shrine to fattening dairy treats.Mexican vanilla, pumpkin cheesecake,and honeyed brandy are a few popular flavorsat this local chain with outposts inseveral handy locations, including SouthCongress Avenue and 6th Street downtown.If you still have a little time left,stroll among the cool antiques, home-furnishings,and second-hand clothing shopsalong South Congress Avenue and also inthe Warehouse District.Saturday-night dinner options are many.Stick with the Warehouse District for thebest people-watching, plus proximity togay nightlife. Excellent dining betsinclude Kenichi, a mod, happening placewhere pretty young things hobnob oversuperbly rendered Japanese cuisine. Atnearby Malaga, you can savor plate afterplate of terrific tapas, such as braised beefshort ribs in Riojo wine.Saturday is Austin's big night for gayrevelry. Rain on 4th and Charlie's remainpopular options, but this is also the bestnight to check out Rain's neighbor, OilcanHarry's, which has been a fixture in thecity for years. This always-packed standand-modelbar attracts a hot collegiatecrowd. There are a couple of bar areas, apatio in back, and a good (loud) soundsystem serving the tiny but pulsing dancefloor. Austin's many queer country-westernfans head to the nearby RainbowCattle Co., where they two-step and linedancebelow a sea of wagon wheels andWild West artifacts. If you're into leather,head to the Chain Drive, which cultivatesa bearish and rugged ambience.The city also has dozens of clubs andlounges hosting bands and singers of justabout every ilk, making Austin one of thenation's top cities for live music. Just strollthrough the Warehouse District, especiallyalong East 6th Street, and listen for thesounds of music to your liking. In Austin,nobody cares much about looks, labels,and agendas—you'll be made to feel welcomemost anywhere.Sunday morning offers a fresh opportunityto sample one of Austin's great brunchor lunch spots—depending on how lateyou sleep in. A favorite of the gay community,Katz Deli is renowned for its halfpoundsandwiches—the grilled threecheesewith tomatoes is especially good.Another enjoyable option is the SouthCongress Cafe, a handsome space knownfor such toothsome brunch treats as duckand-oystergumbo, and a luscious carrotcake French toast.Spend your final afternoon in townexploring the leafy 357-acre campus ofthe University of Texas, whose attractionsinclude the Lyndon Baines JohnsonPresidential Library and Museum and theTexas Memorial Museum, which hasexhibits on state history and local floraand fauna. UT's Blanton Museum of Art iswell-regarded for its collections ofRenaissance paintings as well as modernLatin American art. Guadalupe Street,known along its border with UT as "theDrag," is a haven of alternative culture aswell as the place to shop for locally madearts and crafts, Longhorn memorabilia,and other offbeat goods.On your final night in Austin, you mightgo all out with a high-ticket dinner at oneof the city's most sophisticated restaurants,such as dark and sexy Jeffrey's,which has the polish of a big-city supperclub and a clientele that ranges fromcelebs to politicos. The lamb T-bone withspinach-parmesan souffle and onion-mintconfit is a typically sublime dish. Don'tmiss the white-chocolate parfait withbrandied cherries and pistachios fordessert—a memorable ending to a greatAustin weekend.* Andrew Collins is the author of Fodor's GayGuide to the USA and eight additional travelguides. He can be reached care of this publicationor at OutofTown@qsyndicate.com.To get phone numbers of the places listed here,otherwise known as The Little Black Book,please go to: www.therainbowtimesnews.com(click on the Travel Section).

www.therainbowtimesmass.com • The Rainbow Times • November 1 - Dec. 5, 2007 • 13

14 • November 1 - Dec. 5, 2007 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesmass.comPuddleJump Travel StoriesGoing Green: Exploring the nooks and crannies in El YunqueBy: J. Stevenson*TRT Travel ColumnistThe raindrops drum onto leavesbelow, the twittering Coqui frogskeep time with the beat, andevery inch of the land is a shade of green,from turquoise to olive to chartreuse.Just a short bus ride from the seasideresort town of Fajardo, Puerto Rico, it’shard to believe the El Yunque Rainforestexists so close to civilization. But ElYunque, the only rain forest in the U.S.Forest Service system, encompasses28,000 acres of Puerto Rico and includesthe Luquillo Mountains, offering spectacular,emerald views from every angle.The Mt. Britton lookout tower, perchedat 3,088 feet and accessible by foot orcar, is an excellent place to start taking itall in. It’s a simple, stone cylinder risingfrom the trees, allowing visitors to peekat the foliage from windows at many levelsof a winding, stone spiral staircase. Atthe top, rain clouds can be seen retreatingor approaching, and on a clear day, thecoast is visible in the distance. A deepbank of fog lolling over the tree tops,however, is more likely, and equallystriking.It’s a small rainforest in comparison toother tropical forests around the globe,but as such, is a concentrated hot spot forlife – in countless forms.El Yunque is what is called an 'experimentalnational park;' It is the site of severalstudies of flora and fauna, climate,EL YUNQUE RAINFOREST IN EL YUNQUE, PUERTO RICOand other environmentally based subjects.Walking through the forest, though,either alone or on a guided tour, is theonly way to fully appreciate how amazingEl Yunque is in its diversity.Some plants grow so fast, it’s possibleto see and hear the stalks creepingupward. Others are so deeply rootedthey've stood firm in the same place fordecades.A glimpse at an endangered PuertoRican parrot is a rare treat, and morecommon marvels are the tiny, chirpingCoqui frogs – an unofficial mascot of theisland, some exist nowhere in the worldbut in El Yunque – and giant snails, clingingto branches and leaves.A different look at a culinary delicacyor two could be found as well; in the caseof hearts of palm, for instance, the root,found in many Caribbean and Latinodishes, cannot be harvested until the treein which it lives is felled, and at ElYunque, that's always of natural causes.A walk through El Yunque isn’t just ahunt for strange sights, though. It’s atruly ecological experience, and a briefstudy of a rare and tiny island rainforestthat is also considered by experts to beone of the most fragile in the world.There are lessons to be learned inPuerto Rico’s rainforest, where therhythm of life drums quietly on.* J. Stevenson is a travel, culture, and businesswriter based in Massachusetts. Visit heronline at www.writerjax.com.www.seriosmarket.com“Where customers are friends & friends are customers.”Family Owned & Operated since 1950!WE DELIVERGroceries • Deli • FreshFruits & VegetablesDAILY SPECIALS TO GOQuality MeatsOld Fashioned Servicesince 1950!STORE HOURS:Mon. - Fri.: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.Sat.: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.Sun.: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.65 State Street • Northampton, MAPhone: 413-584-2633 • Fax: 413-585-9756Lesbian Best Sellers*1. The Gymnast2. The L Word: Season 43. Lesbian Sex & Sexuality4. Puccini for Beginners5. Desert Hearts 2-Disc...6. Mango Kiss7. Personal Best8. Loving Annabelle9. Claire Of The Moon10. She Likes Girls* By wolfevideo.comOn October 6th, Mary Lou Perkins celebrated her surprise B-dayParty along with family and friends. In the above photo, Mary Louposes with her tiara, and daughter Margaret Chandler at her 80thBirthday Celebration, which took place at the Florence Civic Center.Left Top Pic: Back row: Sons, John, Greg and Paul Chandler, (JosephChandler missing), daughter Anne DePalma. Middle row: grandsonCameron Chandler, daughters Mary Chandler, Kathryn Chandler,Sarah Sansom, grandson Dan Chandler. Front row: daughterMargaret Chandler, Mary Lou Perkins, and grand-daughter KelsyChandler.

www.therainbowtimesmass.com • The Rainbow Times • November 1 - Dec. 5, 2007 • 15Queer Organization NewsLambda Legal Urges Ithaca City School District to Retract The Night OwlIts Stance on New York Human Rights LawNew York—In an effort to persuade theIthaca City School District to abandon itsstance that the New York Human RightsLaw does not apply to public schools,Lambda Legal today sent school boardmembers a letter critiquing the board'sargument and explaining the potentialharm the board's position could cause."The human rights law is the only effectivelaw that expressly addresses antigaydiscrimination in New York Schools," saidHayley Gorenberg, Deputy Legal Directorat Lambda Legal. Attacking it jeopardizesLGBT students."In response to charges of racial discrimination,the Ithaca City School Districtdefended itself by challenging the NewBOSTON—The Gay Men’s DomesticViolence Project (GMDVP) announcedtoday that its hotline program, designed toaid gay male victims of domestic violence,will expand to cover all of Massachusetts,Rhode Island and Connecticut. It will befunded through a $75,000 grant from theVerizon Foundation.Mr. Peter Bowman, a senior Verizonofficial presented the check to GMDVPExecutive Director Curt Rogers in front ofa packed press conference including statelegislators, Verizon officials, communityallies, and representatives from theGovernors office, the Department ofPublic Health and the MassachusettsOffice of Vitim AssistanceThe GMDVP hotline, expanding into allof New England is believed to be the firstgay/bisexual/transgender male domesticviolence hotline in the nation to expandbeyond one state.“The Verizon grant is significant for severalreasons,” said Rogers “It expands amodel program into other states, and itprovides a lifeline to gay, bisexual andtransgender male victims currently withoutaccess to services. It also exhibitsleadership to other corporate foundationswho traditionally have not funded GLBTdomestic violence issues”State Senator Ed Augustus spoke of theYork Human Rights Law, stating that thelaw should be interpreted to exclude publicschool students from its protections.In the case that raised the issue, a youngAfrican-American girl alleged relentlessharassment by a group of white studentswhile riding the public school bus toDeWitt Middle School. Her mother,Amelia Kearney, said she reported theincidents but was given little to no help.She claims that the district failed to protecther daughter from racial harassment.In defense against this claim, the IthacaCity School District not only contested thespecific facts, but argued that the humanrights law does not apply to publicschools. When a state Supreme CourtIndividuals in Photo from L to R: Susan Goldfarb,Intermin Director of the Family Justice Center ofBoston; Massachusetts State Representative LizMalia; Peter Bowman, Verizon Vice President ofExternal Affairs for Massachusetts and Rhode Island;Massachusetts State Senator Ed Augustus; MaryLauby, Executive Director of Jane Doe, Inc.; DennisBerounsky, survivor of domestic violence andTreasuer of the Gay Men's Domestic ViolenceProject; Curt Rogers, Executive Director of the GayMen's Domestic Violence Project.exemplary nature of this combined effortof a leading business, a non profit andstate legislators acting together to confrontsuch a difficult issue. State RepresentativeLiz Malia, a long time champion of LGBTDomestic Violence remarked that domesticviolence in the gay community neededto be confronted with equal vigor andresources as seen in the heterosexual community.She spoke with compassion of herconnection and on going work with bothjudge ruled on September 11, 2007, thatthe law applied to schools, the school districtlaunched an appeal contesting thatholding. Its decision to challenge theNYHRL has garnered harsh criticism fromcommunity members and civil rightsorganizations.At its October 23 meeting the Board ofEducation will discuss a proposal to discontinueits challenge to the applicabilityof the NYHRL.Lambda Legal is a national organizationcommitted to achieving full recognitionof the civil rights of lesbians, gaymen, bisexuals, transgender people andthose with HIV through impact litigation,education and public policy work.State Legislators applaud expansion of GMDVP into New EnglandGMDVP and their sister organization theNetwork/ La Red.Verizon President of Massachusetts andRhode Island Donna Cupelo said“Domestic violence is an issue that affectsevery segment of society and statisticshave shown that 1 in 4 gay men will bevictims of domestic violence. Verizon isproud to work with the GMDVP to assiston this worthy project.” The grant fromthe Verizon Foundation will be used inpart to hire a full time regional hotlinecoordinator who will be responsible foroverseeing the larger staff of volunteersand geographic area.Central & Western, MABlu105 Water StreetWorcester,MassachusettsClub Car64 Water StreetWorcester, MADIVA'S492 Pleasant St.Northampton, MAHob Knob234 Chestnut StreetSpringfield, MAThe Pub382 Dwight StreetSpringfield, MAMB40 Grafton StreetWorcester, MASin City350 Worthington StreetSpringfield, MAConnecticutTriangles66 Sugar Hollow RoadDanbury, ConnecticutChez Est458 Wethersfield Ave.Hartford, CTPolo Club678 Maple AvenueHartford, CT168 York Street Cafe168 York StreetNew Haven, CTBar254 Crown StreetNew Haven, CTGotham Citi CafeChurch & Crown StreetsNew Haven, CTPartners Cafe365 Crown StreetNew Haven, CTNew YorkClub Phoenix348 Central Ave.,Albany, NY 12206518-462-4862Joey's Bar664 2nd Ave., Troy, NY518-237-4846Water Works Pub76 Central Ave., Albany,NY 12206 518-465-9079Oh Bar304 Lark Street,Albany, NY(518) 463-9004

16 • November 1 - Dec. 5, 2007 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesmass.comLGBT AnnouncementsTRT PRIDE Calendar from MA, NY, , CT & VT!(MA) UNITY is a Transgender support groupwhich meets at 7 p.m. on the 2nd Thursday ofeach month at Baystate Hospital, 3300 MainStreet in Springfield, Ma.; and on the 4thThursday at the Blue Moon Coffee Roasterlocated at 715 Sumner Avenue, Springfield,MA. FMI: Deja 860-604-6343 or Keri 413-364-1749.(MA) SOCIAL GROUP FOR LESBIANS; Wealways meet on the first and third Friday's ofthe month. For information call 413-687-2065(MA) EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION (EC)is NOW available without a prescription at allTapestry Health Services sites. (413) 586-2539.(MA) MATURE LESBIAN SUPPORTGROUP; Group for women 55+ meets monthlyat the Northampton Council on Aging at 240Main St., at 6 p.m.; second Monday of eachmonth.(MA) DISCUSSION GROUP FOR LESBIANS40+ meets every Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 8p.m. at the Stonewall Center at UMass. Topicschosen by group consensus the previousweek. This is a warm and welcoming group ofintelligent women. Information email to:JBGreenize@aol.com(MA) OLDER LESBIAN DISCUSSIONGROUPS; Amherst/NoHo Area. New membersaccepted on space-available basis. Ifenough interest, new groups may form. FMI:413-247-3257 or 413-253-3049.(VT) MEN'S SUPPORT GROUP; Any male 18or older; an opportunity for men to share theirexperiences, thoughts, and feelings aboutlife's journey. Support group not a therapygroup. Free. Every Tuesday, 6:30-8:30 p.m.,Brattleboro, VT. FMI: 802-258-3914.(MA) JOIN EMAIL GROUP FOR LGBT PAR-ENTS in the Pioneer Valley area athttp://groups.yahoo.com/group/lgbt_parents_pioneer_valley/ for exchanging information,chatting about our families, and organizingget-togethers and play-dates.(MA, NY, CT & VT) DISCRIMINATIONBECAUSE U R QUEER? Call The RainbowTimes, 413-204-8959.(MA) Transgender Pride March Meeting;November 1; from 7-9 p.m.; at the MediaEducation Foundation, 60 Masonic Street,Northampton, MA.(MA) MONSTER GOLD 2007; Annual theaterfundraising event. November 3, 2007. 8 p.m. -1 a.m., Memorial Hall, 198 Monson, MA.Tickets: $20.00/Adults 18+. For more information:413-668-7284.(MA) NORTHAMPTON INDEPENDENT FILMFESTIVAL; Nov. 8-12; FMI www.niff.org(CT) ONE BIG EVENT; November 10, 6 p.m.to midnight, at the Hilton Hartford Hotel.Tickets are $100 to $200 per person.(MA) FALL FIESTA, A BENEFIT FOR NOHOPRIDE; November 16, 2007, The Log Cabin, 7p.m. - 12 a.m. Performances by D’Lish andThe King St. Boiz performance troupes,Special Guest DJ. Advanced tickets $15.00. Atthe door, $20.00.(MA) November 1st; First organizationalmeeting for the Trans Pride March andRally 2008; 7-9 p.m.; Media EducationFoundation, 60 Masonic St., Northampton.This is for the transgender communities inWestern Massachusetts, Southern Vermont,and Northern Connecticut.(MA) Nov 2-10; Northampton IndependentFilm Festival; A film for just about anyone!;FMI: www.niff.org(NY) November 2; ROMAINE BROOKS ARTGALLERY OPENING – First Friday featuring:The Propaganda Show; 5 – 9 p.m.; CDGLCC,332 Hudson Ave., Albany, NY; FMI: ContactMichael at RBG@cdglcc.org andwww.romainebrooksgallery.30art.com(CT) November 3; Women, Wine &Chocolate; A benefit for Love Makes a Family;7 p.m. to ?; at the home of Donna Cordova &Alesia Mondello, 17 High Gate Lane, WestHartford(CT) Nov. 3; 7:30-11:30 p.m.; REAL ARTWAYS, 56 Arbor St, Hartford; Third annualUnderween celebration, an evening of freefood, fun, and dancing. There will be a MurderMystery and a costume contest. Free event,open for all ages. FMI: himc@riseup.net or call860.560.9668.(MA) November Smith College’s Programfor the Study of Women and Gender; a FallSemester LGBT History Film Series. Filmswill be shown in McConnell B15; All films startat 7:15 p.m.November 6 and November 7; Hope AlongThe Wind: The Story of Harry HayNovember 13 and 14; Mom’s Apple Pie: TheHeart of the Lesbian Mother’s CustodyMovementNovember 27 and 28; The CockettesDecember 4 & 5; The Times of Harvey Milk(END OF FILMS from SMITH COLLEGE)(NY) Nov. 9; Movie Night showing: “Chutneyand Popcorn”; CDGLCC, 332 Hudson Ave.,Albany, NY; 7:00 PM, FREE!(MA) November 9th; WORD WARRIORS: 35Women Leaders in the Spoken WordRevolution; 7 p.m.; Food For Thought Books106 North Pleasant Street in downtownAmherst. Prize-winning Editor/Poet/PerformerAlix Olson with Lenelle Moise and other contributorsto WORD WARRIORS(MA) Nov. 10-11; 11-5 p.m.; The RainbowTimes Open House at its new office in Ma.;221 Pine St., Suite 358, Florence, MA 01062;4130294-8959; 413-303-9549.(CT) Nov. 10; The Kinsey Sicks Presents:Dragapella Barber Shop Quartet; UConn’sJorgensen Center for the Performing Arts; jorgensen.uconn.edu;tickets $20, students $17@ 860-486-4226 (See page 11 FMI).(CT) Nov. 10; One Big Event; Hilton HartfordHotel, Hartford, CT; 6:00 p.m. to Midnight; featuringMichael Wilson – Emcee; ComedianAndre Kelley; Honorary Host: Mayor EddiePerez; Musical entertainment provided byPaprikaCocktails, Silent Auction, Dinner,Dancing, Formal Attire Encouraged; FMI: DanMillett; (860) 278-4163.(MA) November 11; The 14th annualChocolate Dessert Buffet & Silent Auction;2 to 5 p.m.; Clarion Hotel & ConferenceCenter, One Atwood Drive, Northampton.Proceeds benefit AIDS CARE/HampshireCounty. For a $15 donation, chocolate loverscan sample more than 70 chocolate dessertsdonated by local restaurants and bakeries.(NY) Nov. 15; For as long as HIV is here;“The best party this side of the RiverRhone!" The Annual Beaujolais NouveauWine Celebration; the Franklin Plaza in Troy;$70 in advance and $80 at the door. FMI:Janet Andrade at 518-434-4686, ext. 2424, orvisit www.aidscouncil.org/help/beaujolais-nouveau/(MA) November 17; FREE HOME BUYER’SSEMINAR; 2 p.m.; Forbes Library, 20 WestStreet Northampton, MA. Free Pre-Approvalson the spot! Contact Kate Hunter or JarodMartin at 413-584-4404 or 413-230-6773 toreserve your space!(MA) November 17th at 8 p.m.; MelissaFerrick’s final concert of The Institute forthe Musical Arts (IMA) fall series; at the IMABig Barn in Goshen, MA. Tickets $22.50 inadvance and $25 at the door, or online atwww.ima.org and at Northampton's Pride andJoy on Crafts Avenue.(MA) Nov. 17; National Transgender Day ofRemembrance; Blue Moon Coffee Roasters;10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; 715 Sumner Ave. Springfield.(VT) November 18 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.;Transgender Support Group; Meeting inBrattleboro, VT the third Sunday of everymonth. Open to anyone whose identity orexpression doesn't fit neatly into the genderbinary, including transpeople of all gendersand sexual orientations: transgender(ed),transsexuals, FTMs, MTFs, non-op, pre-op,post-op, crossdressers, bi-gendered, genderqueer,genderfluid, questioning...Confidentiality guaranteed. For more informationcontact Benjamin Robin: robin@benjaminrobin.net(CT) November 20; 6th Annual TransgenderDay of Remembrance; 6 p.m. at MCCHartford, 155 Wyllys Street, Hartford.(CT & NY) Nov. 20; Women’s MonthlyConnection; 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.; third Tuesdayof every month for a Women’s social networkingevent for you and your friends. Come meetup with your friends or make new friends atthis historic site where the Gay Liberationmovement was started.(NY) Bisexual Brunch; First and thirdSundays of the month, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at theRainbow Cafe, 332 Hudson Ave., Albany. FMI:Viktoria 518-438-6315.(NY) Bagel Bunch; Tuesdays; 10:30 a.m.;Older gay men’s social and discussion group.Bruegger’s, Hannaford Plaza, Central Ave.,Albany.(NY) Capital Pride Singers; Mondays @ 7p.m.; LGBT/LGBTaffirming; mixed chorus; St.Andrew’s, Episcopal Church, 10 No. Main St.,Albany, 12203; FMI: 435-4636.(NY) Capital District Prime Timers; Providessocial, cultural, and recreational opportunitiesfor mature gay and bisexual men. Open tomen age 21+. FMI: jallison2@nycap.rr.com orCDPT 595 New Loudon Rd #202 Latham NY12110(NY) Gay, Bisexual and Transgender MenSupport Group; Mondays; 7 p.m.; Supportgroup for GBT men to talk about coming out,sex, religion, dating, relationships, and otherissues affecting men in the GBT Community;CDGLCC @ 332 Hudson Avenue in Albany.FMI: Q Diamond at (518) 462-6138 or qdiamond@cdglcc.org.(NY) Lesbian and Bisexual Women'sSupport Group; every other Tuesday; 7 p.m.;Designed for multi-cultural lesbian and bisexualwomen who are questioning their sexuality,recovering from newly ended relationships,struggling with depression or just womenneeding the support of their peers. Meet atCDGLCC at 332 Hudson Avenue in Albany.FMI: Q Diamond at (518) 462-6138 or qdiamond@cdglcc.org.(NY) Youth Group; Friday nights; 7 p.m.; 332Hudson Ave. in Albany; Group offers peer supportto LGBT& questioning individuals ages13-19. A supportive environment for LGBTQyouth and their straight allies to discuss issuesof coming out, family, school, work, and relationshipsamong their peers. It's not just agroup about being gay. It's a group aboutbeing young and being who you are. Anothergroup meets in Saratoga Springs at 624Broadway every other Wednesday, a group inHudson at 742 Warren St. every otherWednesday, and a group in Schoharie Countythat meets twice per month. FMI: Q Diamondat (518) 462-6138 or qdiamond@cdglcc.org.(NY) Confidential HIV Testing; firstWednesday of each month; 6-8:30 p.m.;Provided by Project H.O.P.E., a program of theAIDS Council of Northeastern New York.Testing offered at the CDGLCC, 332 HudsonAve., Albany. FMI: 518-462-6138.(NY) Out Dancing (for the LGBTQ community);every Wednesday evening; 7 to 8 p.m.;Saratoga SAVOY, 7 Wells St, SaratogaSprings, NY. 518-587-5132 http://saratogasavoy.homestead.com/files/outdancing.html(NY) Dec. 3; PrideWorks for LGBT YouthConference; 8:00a - 3:30p; WestchesterCounty Center, White Plains, NY ; 9th annualfull-day conference addressing issues of lgbtqyouth and their allies in our schools and communities.Cost is $85 for adults, $50 for collegestudents and $30 for high school andmiddle school students.The Rainbow Times & NorthamptonPride Open House/ ALL Invited!Nov. 10 & 11; Call 413-204-8959.HappyThanksgiving!Have a safeandwonderfulHoliday.From from OURfamily to YOURS.TRTSubmit your non-profit calendar event* to calendar@therainbowtimesmass.com*Certain restrictions apply. Small for-profit events/groups, 35 words or less, are considered for a small fee. Large/for-profit events are not considered. All submissions appear online.

18 • November 1 - Dec. 5, 2007 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesmass.comQueerWoodDeep Inside Hollywood: Moennig shows RemorseQBy: Romeo San Vicente*ueer fans ofKatherineMoennig,The L Word's shaggyhaired,womanizing,underwear-modelingShane, will have a reason to leave theirtelevisions for movie theaters when theactor stars in the new indie thrillerRemorse. First-time feature directorQuinn Saunders will helm the project,which co-stars Eion Bailey (Band ofBrothers). The plot is still mostly underwraps, but there's already an ominousposter image for the film online, one thatsuggests the movie will serve up a fairlylarge serving of insanity and fear. And nomatter what the story line, it will simplybe good to see Moennig on screen formore than a few minutes at a time afterher tiny roles in films like Art SchoolConfidential. Remorse cameras will rollbeginning March of 2008.Toni Collette Moves into TaraYou’ve seen Toni Collette play everythingfrom an ABBA obsessive to a momwhose kid talks to dead people, but theAussie actress is about to play a whole lotof new characters - all in one TV series.Katherine MoennigShowtime has announced that Collettewill star in The United States of Tara,based on an idea by Steven Spielberg,about an ordinary-seeming wife andmother of two who copes with life'sstresses via multiple personalities. Thesealter egos include a promiscuous teen, apicture-perfect housekeeper, and even anaggressive male biker. The pilot, whichshoots in 2008, was written by DiabloCody, the screenwriter behind this winter'smuch-buzzed-about comedy Juno.And if any actress can convince us there'sa menacing guy lurking inside a regulargal, it's Toni Collette.Hellraiser Raises Hell AgainPractically every successful horrormovie made between 1960 and 1990 hasbeen remade—Halloween, Dawn of theDead, The Hitcher, etc.—or has a remakein the works. And so it goes with CliveBarker's 1987 hit Hellraiser, whichspawned several sequels and taught theworld to be afraid of bald men who sticknails in their heads like they were pincushions.Gay horror master Barkerdirected the original and has now givenhis blessing for Dimension Films toreboot the franchise with a remake. Thestory, you may recall, deals with a cheatingwife trying to liberate her lover fromHell and encountering the nasty demonsknown as Cenobites. Will Barker's creationstill have bite the second timearound? Audiences will decide when itopens in 2008.Dumbledore's Unrequited CrushesThe Harry Potter books have all beenwritten and published, so the recent andsomewhat bemused comment fromauthor J.K. Rowling that she alwaysbelieved Hogwarts' headmaster AlbusDumbledore to be gay can have no effecton future installments. But there are stilltwo film adaptations left in the cinematicversion of the boy wizard's saga, and thatleaves plenty of room for both actorMichael Gambon to re-interpret the characterwith plenty of new subtext and forqueer fans to speculate wildly on whatthose sidelong glances to other actorsmight really mean. Of course, neitherGambon nor anyone else related to theprojects will speak about what's comingto theaters near you, but Romeo wouldlike to officially cast his vote for a littleinfusion of homo content into the magicalworld of Harry.* Romeo San Vicente knows a few lesbianwitches but, sadly, no gay warlocks. He canbe reached care of this publication or atDeepInsideHollywood@qsyndicate.com.

Automotive Q & ABy: Stephen M. LewisTRT Auto ColumnistWell, we finallygot “A” questionasked by a reader. Ithink it may be ofinterest to a lot ofyou. So might thequestion be that youdon’t ask. As youcan tell, no questions– no column! HELP!!Stephen M. LewisPresident, Steve LewisSubaruNorthampton, MA—The 13th annualNorthampton Independent Film Festival(NIFF) is pleased to announce its new Festivaldates for 2007. NOVEMBER 2,3,4 & 9, 10are on the schedule for this nationally recognizedevent.Director, Jeffrey Dreisbach (pronouncedDryzbock) is quite busy with festival planningand coordination. The theme this year is, “TheFuture We Will Create.”“As we look ahead to the future, it is clearthat we have amazing opportunities for showingour community just how film can affectour lives. November is the perfect time forus,” said Dreisbach. “Wonderful venues inthis amazing town of Northampton.”New to the festival this year is having twoQ: I just had my tires rotated, but mycar keeps pulling to the left. I told the guywhere I had it done, but he said I needednew tires. I got the tires last year and theylook fine to me. Are they trying to get meto spend more money on tires, or did theydo a lousy job rotating them?A: Let’s see….several problems are possible,but it is impossible to do a lousy tirerotation.In a tire rotation, it is most common fortires on the same side of the car to be rotatedfront to rear. However, if you told thetechnician of your problem, he could haveswitched the 2 front tires and that possiblycould solve the problem. Get that done andbased on the results, if it works – Great. If itdoesn’t, you’ll probably need an “alignment”.If your vehicle is 2-wheel drive, get a“front end alignment”. If it is “all-wheel” or“4-wheel” drive, get a 4-wheel alignment.If a car pulls in either direction, it is mostlikely out of alignment, and will wear yourtires prematurely. Alignment is cheaper thantires.Remember this – if the car vibrates orshimmies while driving, that is NOT alignment,it is tire balance. If the car pulls left orright it is alignment. Alignment does notcure vibration, nor does tire balance solvepulling.How about some more questions to:stevelewis@subarumail.com! I kind of likedoing this!Happy Motoring,Steveweek ends rather than four days in a row.“This gives more opportunity to see greatfilms and helps to give our sponsorship morevisibility,” said Dreisbach. “We are also planninga new hang out-central location for filmmakers,students, and filmgoers to meetbetween showings and share their experiencein a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere…..we’recalling it CLUBNIFF!” You can join the club via ourweb site at niff.org.”About the Northampton IndependentFilm FestivalThe Northampton Independent FilmFestival (NIFF) is committed to establishinga northeast center for the exploration,examination, and celebration ofwww.therainbowtimesmass.com • The Rainbow Times • November 1 - Dec. 5, 2007 • 19Local Events & AutoThe Pony ExpressStay tuned in and updated during the weeks that TRT doesn’tprint! Our FREE e-newsletter, The Pony Express, contains valuableand pertinent information about breaking news in our communities(MA, NY, CT & VT), teasers for the upcoming editions ofTRT, calendar listings, selected news stories and much more.The Pony Express is sent to our large subscriber e-base on thesecond and fourth Thursday of each month.TRT is printed on the first Thursday of each month.www.therainbowtimesnews.comTRTNIFF: Film festival dates, check out the LGBT filmsindependent filmmaking. NIFF showcases theworks of filmmakers whose films demonstratequality, innovation, and independencein both form and content.For more information, or to check out theLGBT films go to: niff.orgGay Best Sellers*1. Outing Riley2. Bam Bam & Celeste3. Coffee Date4. Boy Culture5. Another Gay Movie6. A Very Serious Person7. Queer As Folk: The...8. East Side Story9. Boy Crush10. Glue * By wolfevideo.com413.587.0786221 Pine St., Suite 358Florence, MA 01062Fully InsuredFree EstimatesPacking ServicesCommercial &ResidentialLocal/Long DistanceHot Tubs/FurnacesPiano Moving -Our specialty!

20 • November 1 - Dec. 5, 2007 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesmass.comFeatured LGBT ArtistEmpowered: Party Drugs, STD’s andworld peace with Annie LennoxReady for a roller-coaster ride? That’swhat Annie Lennox likens her music to,and her new solo disc, Songs of MassDestruction, is certainly a dramatic journeyof extreme emotions—as is thisinterview with the surprisingly sassysongstress. But when discussing herwork, she’s a serious artiste: “Each trackhas a different feel,” Annie says of thealbum that veers from atmospheric songsof loss to anthemic calls for hope. She’salso serious about her passionate forhuman rights—her disc’s title referencesthe Iraq war—and when we caught upwith Annie, she had just performed inLondon for Peace One Day, a movementto make September 21 the day of worldpeace. “But it doesn’t have to be aboutputting weapons down,” she says. “Youcan make friends with someone youhaven’t spoken with—whatever it meansto you.” What? Make peace with our exboyfriends?Now that really wouldchange the world.HX: After hearing the haunting debutsingle “Dark Road” and reading aboutthe disc’s serious subject matter, listenersmight not be prepared for the upbeat,anthemic sound on many tracks. How doyou meld the two?Annie Lennox: Seamlessly, dear! Themusic comes intuitively. I don’t try to figureit out. And as human beings, we areparadoxical, the two things co-exist:darkness and light, positive and negative.You can’t get one without the other. I’vealways been a person with a dark side,but I do try to be positive.Q: Yet another sample of "SweetDreams" has surfaced in a dance track,this time in Britney Spears’sSee Lennox on Page 22

Dr. Lola: Sexpert & moreDear Dr. Lola:Hi, I am a strictly lesbian identifiedwoman who has never had sex witha biological man. I also don’t have sexwith women who do have sex withbiological men. (I’d like to get a teeshirt that says, “I don’t do Dick –just Jane!”). So, my question is this;my new partner, well sort of new, and Ihave been intimate for almost three months.Now she thinks we each need to have an AIDStest before we can have hot sex without glovesand all. She’s done a lot of volunteering andworks in the gay men’s community and personally,I think she’s on overload with all thisAIDS stuff. We are lesbians. Why do we needto worry about this stuff? And, more importantly,do you think we need to get an AIDStest? Maybe there’s something she’s nottelling me?—“All about Jane” in Northampton, MADamn girl, you’ve got issues. You canbe all about Jane or Jeffrey for all anyonecares – that doesn’t stop you from beinghuman. Before I get tempted to give youa life lesson, let’s get real about HIV.There is no such thing as an “AIDS” test.There is a test for HIV. HIV stands forthe Human Immunodeficiency Virus. TheHIV test looks for the antibodies that thehuman body produces when it has beenexposed to the virus. AIDS is a diagnosisof the syndrome and is based upon specificmedical criteria. You don’t say howold you are. You sound young and dangerouslyunaware.My advice to you is as follows, 1) Beproud that your partner serves our community2) Get your butt to a clinic specializingin sexual health and get testedfor anything and everything the counselorsuggests because lesbians are notimmune to STI’s (sexually transmittedinfections) 3) Grab all the pamphletsfrom the clinic and read them with yourpartner, ask her questions and listen towhat she has to say 4) Only you and yourpartner can negotiate safer sex practices.It really is a negotiation so if you thinkthere are things that need to be said, saythem and be prepared to communicate,listen, share, and exchange ideas beforeyou exchange bodily fluids 5) read mycolumn regularly for hot sex tips 6) Openyour mind; it is sexier than opening yourlegs.Dear Dr. Lola:I am an openly gay man. I love mylife. I love my man. He lovesmy neurotic cat. So what is theproblem? My man was born awoman. When we met I never wouldhave thought that he was a trannie. Hewas honest with me from day one. At first Ithought he was joking. Then, before we firstgot busy we had a real heart to heart andworked stuff out. He is the biggest, hottestbear that has ever taken me down. I love thisman and I love his cooking. Unless you knewhim before the transition you could neverguess he was any different than he is now.Since he was born a woman does this mean Iam really straight, only I am hiding behind mylover? I am 32; a little old to be questioningmy sexual orientation. Oh, and he asked me tomarry him. The guy loves me for me. He’seven Jewish! My family, even my mother loveshim. She thinks he’s quite a catch. He’s theonly man I ever brought to Temple but nobodyin my family knows his physical history. Is thissomething we need to tell my family? Thewedding is next spring. Oy vey!—DL, Holyoke MADear DL:Mazeltov my darling mensch! Now –you listen to me. A Yentl he’s not - it’s agood thing too! Why stir the pot whenthe matzoh balls have already floated tothe top? It’s time to take out the ladle andserve everybody this love. He’s happy,you’re happy.Hello - how many men would be ableto make your mother happy? If you areasking what to do, I would say talk it overwith your beloved. Let him know whatyour concerns are. See how he’s feelingabout it and then the two of you decidewhat is important to disclose to whomand what is not.Enjoy this time in your relationship andremember to say, “thank you”, to yourmother for giving you life and for raisinga son who is such a good catch that he’smarrying the man of his dreams before35. A mitzvah, truly. There is a passage inthe Talmud that I love – it says, “…everyblade of grass has an angel that whispers,‘Grow, grow’…” Bask in the love andsupport of your family. They seem to bewhispering to the both of you.Support the advertisers whosupport our communities!Are YOU paying attention?TRT in more places!www.therainbowtimesmass.com • The Rainbow Times • November 1 - Dec. 5, 2007 • 21Across1 Elton John wears them6 "Silence = death," e.g.11 Colts' org.14 Flaming queen's crime?15 Pink, for one16 Matthew in The Producers17 Former column by Michael Thomas Ford19 Oddball comedian Philips20 Broadway title woman of 192521 Top22 TV host Steve25 Like some condoms27 Setting for At Swim, Two Boys28 Ejaculation of concern32 Valencia author Michelle33 Melissa Etheridge's "Don't Look ___"34 Rowlands of An Early Frost35 Fashion designer Perry38 R. Mapplethorpe supporter39 With 60-Across, Ford book41 Sex orientation determiner, some say42 Like Tales of the City?44 Russian singing duo45 Out46 Coll. of Phil Andros47 Places where women might sweat together48 Fruity drink49 Houston's WNBA team52 Catherine of Capote54 Mamma Mia! band55 Emily Dickinson, in her day59 Lesbian opponent of Wade60 See 39-Across64 Old nuclear power org.65 Ecstatic spasm, like an orgasm66 Eastern positions67 Fab Five syllable for many a straight guy68 Drag queen's garment69 O'Connor of XenaSex Talk & MoreQ Puzzle: Ford FoundationDown1 American Beauty director Mendes2 Stick your nose in3 Firm member (abbr.)4 Poet Cullen5 Pussyfoot6 160 rods7 Bonehead8 Went down9 Tammy Baldwin's page, e.g.10 Preposition for Byron11 Ford's ___ Doesn't Love Me12 Amelie Mauresmo's woman13 Whispered to one's partner18 Tired lover's cry21 His brother laid him in his grave22 Reeves of My Own Private Idaho23 Hat for Pope Julius II24 "The gay ___" (Ford nickname)26 Caligula's way29 Prelims for Bruce Hayes30 Coming soon31 Until, in Sitges36 Cockamamie37 Nay follower39 Oddly shaped testicle?40 What a Minuteman shoots off43 Where to find Moby Dick45 "Fabu!"49 Weight unit for David Diamond?50 You can blow them in the orchestra pit51 Jane of the cloth53 Artist Hernandez56 Shrek, for one57 Some actors have big ones58 Ballet supporters?60 Co. that may deliver pansies61 The feminine side 62 Stuff from your shaft63 Bring to bearSolution of Puzzle on Page 22

HELP WANTEDBiCuriousSWBiF looking for friendship and possibly more inSpringfield/Noho area. Very new to scene and testing thewaters. Great sense of humor and kind heart. Collegeeducated and intelligent. Contact Ashley at honour_huswww.therainbowtimesmass.com• The Rainbow Times • November 1 - Dec. 5, 2007 • 23Q ClassifiedsWomen 4 womenLooking to meet women in the Springfield/NorthamptonMA area for friendship and fun! Diva's, Oz, dinner/coffee/drinksin NoHo or Springfield. Movies, the beach, youname it let's get together and do it! Contact Kris at dolphinstarnight@yahoo.comLooking for other women for outdoor activities; biking,hiking, and cross country skiing. I like to cook, especiallycoming up with healthy tasty recipes. Walks in the woods,sitting by a cozy fire, enjoying all life has to offer. Contact:Treesyster@aol.comHey. just checking it out - I am new to boston and lookingto meet some friends who like to have fun!! MaybePERSONALSREAL ESTATEQueer SportsThe Outfield: You say you want a revolutionEBy: Dan Woog*ach winter,when SportsIllustratedunleashes its swimsuitedition onAmerica, readersreact predictably.Many men greet itwith orgasmic pleasure;a few writers bloviate that they'veremoved it from their living rooms, bedrooms,or bathrooms, and huffily canceltheir subscriptions. No one wonders whycredit-card-thin models, with no visibleconnection to athletics, appear in a magazineotherwise wholly dedicated tosports.Like SI, Outsports.com—the Internet'sfavorite destination for all things GLBTathletics-related,from an internationalgay rugby tournament to discus throwingin ancient Greece—also runs photos ofeye-popping eye candy. Shirtless soccerplayers, Speedo-ed swimmers, and SuperBowl studs—some gay, most straight, afew wink-wink—are, like the site's indepthstories and interactive discussionboards, ways to keep users coming backfor more.But, though their photos always depictathletes, Outsports founders JimBuzinski and Cyd Zeigler Jr. say they arecriticized for running titillating photosthat undermine the site's journalisticintegrity. Some of those comments comefrom gay athletes themselves.Welcome to the still-evolving, oftencontroversial, and always entertainingworld of gay sports. It's a relatively newniche, but one that Buzinski and Zeiglerhelped pioneer. Now, with the release oftheir first book, The OutsportsRevolution: Truth and Myth in the Worldof Gay Sports, they're bringing that worldto a wider—and perhaps straighter—audience."I think we have a lot to say," explainsBuzinski, of the book's genesis. "A bookhas permanence, and the potential toreach people who don't see our stuff onthe Web." With a broad focus - storiesrange from gay sports history and theGay Games to "the curse of the highschool gym class" and how to date asports nut—Buzinski hopes TheOutsports Revolution will reel in readerswho are interested in the role all sportsplay in American society. After all, thewriters note, studies show that for rabidfans, the thrill of watching their favoriteteam in action can rival a sexual experience.Members of Queer Nation bondwith members of Red Sox Nation in away that's unimaginable - and unstudied -in many other areas of life."My 17-year-old nephew asked a lot ofquestions about gay sports," Buzinskisays. "And my 32-year-old niece, who isnot a sports fan, devoured the book."His niece also called him on the SportsIllustrated—ike swimsuit section, whichincluded negative comments aboutcheerleaders. "Aren't you stereotypingthem, the same way gay people don't liketo be stereotyped?" she asked. She wasright, he admits.Her comment got him thinking, whichis exactly what Buzinski hopes the bookwill do for others. Among the mostprovocative sections, he says, is the first:"Why Should I Give a Damn AboutSports?" "Lots of gay people instinctivelydiss sports, in many cases because ofnegative experiences growing up," hesays. "They think that games have novalue. We talk about why they're important:They're dramatic, unscripted, andunpredictable, just like life. And, becausethey allow people to work, compete,laugh, and cry together, they provide acrucial community bonding experience."Buzinski cites other chapters as important,too, including "The Media'sFumbling of Gay Sports," "The Wave ofOut Young Jocks," and "Getting in theGame." "We want gay sports to be accessible,"he says, referring to that how-tosection for nonparticipants. "People haveto get over the fear that gay sports todayare like high school, when they alwaysgot picked last."Ziegler cites the section on transsexualsin sports as particularly noteworthy. "Gaypeople go through a lot of crap, but transstruggles are so difficult," he says."What's interesting, though, is they'veprobably made more progress in sports -in tennis, women's professional golf, theOlympics—than in most of the rest ofsociety. The sports world views [transsexuality]as an issue of biology, notsociology. That's pretty refreshing."The Outsports Revolution includessome of the most popular and groundbreakingstories from the website's 7-year history. Where will the site - and gaysports in general - be seven years fromnow?"It will be nice if there's OutsportsTV!" Buzinski laughed. "The big question,of course, is when will a male who'san active player in a major sport comeout. A 40-year-old told me, 'Not in mylifetime,' but I think that's way too negative.I hope in seven years that will havehappened, and it will be less of a storythan it would be today.""I think our readership will change,"Ziegler adds. "We're still at a time whengay people read gay books and watch gaymovies. Seven years from now, our nextbook may be more about sexuality insports than homosexuality in sports."* Dan Woog is a journalist, educator, soccercoach, gay activist, and author of the "Jocks"series of books on gay male athletes. Visit hiswebsite at www.danwoog.com. He can bereached care of this publication or atOutField@qsyndicate.com.more. Contact: Ashley at natwonder@gmail.comMen 4 MenGWM, 37, seeks companionship in the Northamptonarea. Contact: Martin at 413-527-1533.Hey, 18 yo looking for a man in Western MA, for romanticrelationship... under 20 ONLY. Thanks. Contact: Joshat PrynceShybo@gmail.comTo place a personal, or a classfied ad, please call 413-204-8959/518-391-2617.

24 • November 1 - Dec. 5, 2007 • The Rainbow Times • www.therainbowtimesmass.com