Project of Community Link, Inc. April 15, 2011 Unison @ Pride Dario
Transcription
Project of Community Link, Inc. April 15, 2011 Unison @ Pride Dario
NEWS LINK Project of Community Link, Inc. GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER COMMUNITY SERVICE ORGANIZATION April 15, 2011 Issue VIII, Volume XVI, Number 188 FREE monthly GLBT publication * Since 1995 * www.CommunityLinkFresno.com Unison @ Pride What happens when you get 8+ djs from the best gay dance hotspots all in one place? One epic Pride Dance Tent. This year, XO Productions has taken the reigns and introduces, UNISON at the Fresno Rainbow Pride Festival. Headed up by Binx and Kudro, the dance tent will feature sets from some of your favorite djs representing their club or dance event. Everything from house to Latin to eighties will be offered up in the name of pride and solidarity to make you dance. Dj Cookee will be representing Pure, the 18+ gay dance event held every Monday at Aldo's, as well as, Surrender Sundays at Express. DJ Dizzi longtime resident of the Express and DJ Fresh will also make an appearance. DJ Chris is putting down a set for the North Tower Circle, and DJ Evilclown will be representing the Circle's monthly event Tower Extatic. DJ Jimmy Mac is coming out for The Red Lantern. Club Legends will be offering up DJ Suzy Q, Dario Returns to Headline Fresno Rainbow Pride Community Link is proud to announce the return of one of our most popular Pride headliners. In 2008 Dario stormed the Pride stage and made a lasting impression on all who experienced one hell of a rocking, smooth, hip, and a little latin show. Pop with a lot of soul. Dario equally enjoyed the Fresno Experience and insisted that Fresno would be on his current tour. Dario’s new CD, “The Upside of Down” is being released Tuesday, May 10, 2011. Plus he has several other top secret projects he is working on, that will be announced as all the details are ironed out. Be sure to catch Dario's headlining performance at the Pride Festival on June 4th Read the full Dario story on page 26 Fresno Rainbow Pride Needs You! Check out all the Pride articles and ads throughout this issue of the News Link who is the featured Dj on Manic Mondays and Latin Wednesdays. The list of djs is still growing with the goal of making this years dance tent a truly diverse experience for everybody. Mark your calendars and make sure you don't miss out. Experience the parade, enjoy the festival and DANCE all in the name of pride! www.CommunityLinkFresno.com NewsLink 2 Gays and Fresno Cops By Dan Waterhouse The Channel 30 report on April 8th about the apparent hate crime at The Phoenix bar also pointed out the lack of trust between many in the gay community and the local cops. Owner Karl Jensen told reporter Tommy Tran the anti-gay slurs had not been reported to Fresno PD because he thought the cops wouldn't care. Jensen told Tran he found numerous hate tags inside and outside the bar when he returned from lunch on April 6th. The bar, previously The Den, is currently being rebuilt following a suspicious fire in September 2010. Once again, I hear of a hate crime not being reported because of distrust of Fresno PD. While tagging is relatively tame, I'm aware of several bashings that were never reported to police. There are too many issues between the community and PD. And, they start with the overt religious overtones within the department. During the Prop 8 campaign in 2008 and afterwards, there were instances of Fresno officers taking the side of “Yes on 8” supporters during street pickets. They usually took the form of officers allowing “Yes” supporters to stand out in the street and then not allowing the opposition to do the same thing, or ignoring violence initiated by “Yes on 8” supporters. Some officers approached “No on 8” supporters during the campaign and started arguing that being gay was a sin. Chief Jerry Dyer has set the tone. His “minister of justice” comment at this year's Martin Luther King, Jr. march is a prime example. It seems he can't separate his religious beliefs from his job. He espouses the idea that police officers who are “Christians” are one of the swords of a vengeful God. Even Bill Parker, the reactionary chief of the LAPD in the 1950s and early 1960s, recognized the role of the police was to investigate and arrest, not punish. “The identification of police with the processes of punishment works to destroy the ideal of a non-judging, non-penalizing police,” said Parker. Perhaps Dyer needs to take Parker's words to heart, though I doubt it. I wish someone would figure out a way to send Dyer off into retirement permanently and clean house at the City Hall Annex. On to other things…. Fresno State this semester has been busy with queer-friendly events. Peter Robertson spoke to United Student Pride in March about the early history of the organization in an event that was acknowledged in the University Journal in April. I found Peter's presentation fascinating; I was a graduate student on campus during the events he spoke about, and during a question and answer session afterwards, I related how when Cleve Jones came to campus to speak, the campus police had locked down the Craig School of Business while they hunted for a sniper. The Arne Nixon Childrens Book Center in Madden Library unveiled its collection of LGBT literature at a reception in late March. The collection, focused heavily on youth, is the largest housed in a library in the United States. On April 8th, the Experimental Theatre Company premiered “Dear Harvey,” a documentary play about Harvey Milk. Students Edward Anderson, Kelsey Deroian, Matthew Freitas, Molly Kelly, Dillion Morgan, Hillary West, and Ryan Woods acted out the roles of Milk, Stuart Milk, Cleve Jones, and Dan Nicolettaamong others. The play is entered in the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival. The aim of the festival is to identify and promote quality in college-level theatre production. “Dear Harvey” was emotionally wrenching for me. I realized that I am a beneficiary of Milk's pioneering, as the first openly gay man to serve on the county civil grand jury and one of the few to serve on a county advisory board. Then, the San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus returned to Fresno for an oncampus performance the same weekend as “Dear Harvey.” I felt strange going to the Chorus without Tom this time. We made a habit of going to the Chorus' “Home for the Holidays” Christmas Eve show at the Castro Theatre. The first time we went was barely a week after Tom's last surgery in 2007, and we sat in the back holding hands and crying for joy. On May 11th, “local heroes” Robin McGehee, Andrew McIntosh, and Matthew Mazzei will be appearing on a panel at the Smittcamp House on campus. A far cry from the 1990s, when it wasn't necessarily safe to be out on the Fresno State campus. FRESNO GLBT+ EVENT CALENDAR APRIL through 17 Sunday “Wicked” The Musical @ the Saroyan Theatre 700 M St., wickedtour.net/wicked-fresno 15 Friday 5p “It's A Queer Thang” Radio Show - KFCF 88.1 FM www.communitylinkfresno.com and www.kfcf.org 15 Friday 6p Men's Mixer @ TBA www.sunapsis.org/lgbt/mixer 15 Friday 6:30p Mariposa Azul - Meeting @ call for location Gaby (559) 266-5650 (Spanish) 16 Saturday 11a Fresno Stonewall Democrats - Move Forward: Outdoor Brunch at the Tafoya Gardens, 1044 N. Van Ness Ave., (559) 824-9528 16 Saturday 11a Trans-e-motion - LGBT+ Picnic at Einstein Park Dakota & Millbrook Ave., www.trans-e-motion.org 16 Saturday 5p Trans-e-motion - Business Meeting Zoyer (559) 285-0795, Kelly (559) 307-9908, www.trans-e-motion.org 16 Saturday 8p Golden State Bears - Bunnylimpics @ The Express 708 N. Blackstone Ave, www.goldenstatebears.org 16 Saturday 11p Ladies of Seduction show @ the North Tower Circle 2777 N Maroa Ave, northtowercircle.com 17 Sunday Club Xtatic @ the North Tower Circle 2777 N Maroa Ave, northtowercircle.com 18 Monday 6:30p Yosemite Knights - Meeting & Dinner @ Carrows 4280 N Blackstone Ave, www.kofmfresno.com 20 Wed. 6:30p Golden State Bears - Dinner Night www.goldenstatebears.org 22 Friday all day Dining Out For Pride @ Tacos Marquitos 1772 E Barstow, coupon at communitylinkfresno.com 23 Saturday 3p The Group In Fresno - Wine Tasting & Karaoke www.tgifresno.org 24 Sunday 11a Golden State Bears - Easter Brunch www.goldenstatebears.org 24 Sunday 7p Easter Bonnet Contest and Meet & Greet for Candidate for Empress XXXVIII, Carol @ the Red Lantern, 4618 E Belmont 24 Sunday 9p Mariposa Azul - Divas Night @ Los Amigos, 1752 W. Shaw Ave, losamigosmex.com 25 Monday 10p The Haus of Hit @ Pure, 18+ gay night @ Aldo's, 617 W. Belmont Ave, aldosnightclub.com, (559) 473-9362 27 Wed. 9a Project: MALE - HIV Think Tank @ 1584 N Van Ness Ave, (559) 268-1969 28 Thursday 7p The Group In Fresno - Munch www.tgifresno.org 29 Friday 9p Imperial Dove Court - Last Friday Show Coronation XXXVIII In Town Show @ the Red Lantern , 4618 E Belmont, idcfresno.org 30 Saturday 6p Imperial Dove Court - Evening Under the Stars 5145 E Washington Ave, www.idcfresno.org 30 Saturday 9p Fresno Rainbow Pride - Fundraiser @ North Tower Circle 2777 N Maroa, (559) 486-3464 MAY 1 Sunday 1p Golden State Bears - Meeting www.goldenstatebears.org 2 Monday 7:30p Imperial Dove Court - Meeting @ the IDC Club House 4030 E. Belmont, www.idcfresno.org 4 Wed. Ellos Latinos - Meeting (559) 907-2995, myspace.com/elloslatinos 6 Friday 6p Men's Mixer @ TBA www.sunapsis.org/lgbt/mixer 6 Friday 6:30p Mariposa Azul - Meeting @ call for location Gaby (559) 266-5650 (Spanish) 7 Saturday 11p Ladies of Seduction show @ the North Tower Circle 2777 N Maroa Ave, northtowercircle.com 7 Saturday Club Flesh: Goth Night @ the Express 708 N Blackstone Ave, thefresnoexpress.com 7 Saturday Trans-e-motion - Support Group Meeting Zoyer (559) 285-0795, Kelly (559) 307-9908, www.trans-e-motion.org 8 Sunday 2p PFLAG - Meeting @ Wesley United Methodist Church 1343 E. Barstow Ave, www.pflag.org, (559) 434-6540 9 Monday 10p The Haus of Hit @ Pure, 18+ gay night @ Aldo's, 617 W. Belmont Ave, aldosnightclub.com, (559) 473-9362 10 Tuesday 7p The Group In Fresno - Orientation www.tgifresno.org 11 Wed. 9a Project: MALE - HIV Think Tank @ 1584 N Van Ness Ave, (559) 268-1969 11 Wed. 5:30p Central California Alliance & Bulldog Pride Fund - “Celebrating Local Heroes” @ the Smittcamp Alumni House at Fresno State, www.ccafresno.org and www.bulldogpride.org 11 Wed. 7p Stonewall Democrats - Meeting @ Carrows 4280 N. Blackstone Ave, www.mangen.com/stonewall/ 11 Wed. 7p Fresno Rainbow Pride 2011 meet @ 1055 N Van Ness Ave in the conference room, (559) 486-3464, fresnorainbowpride.com 11 Wed. Community Link's Gray Alliance - Dinner Night Liz or Lupe (559) 287-2428, communitylinkfresno.com 12 Thursday 7:15p Community Link's Rainbow Bowling League summer season begins @ Cedar Lanes, 3131 N Cedar Rich (559) 824-1417, www.communitylinkfresno.com 13 Friday 6:30p Golden State Bears - Game & Movie Night www.goldenstatebears.org 13 Friday 8p Imperial Dove Court - Coronation XXXVIII : Out of Town Show @ Piccadilly Inn Airport, 5115 E McKinley, idcfresno.org 13 Friday Trans-e-motion - Social Meeting Zoyer (559) 285-0795, Kelly (559) 307-9908, www.trans-e-motion.org 13 Friday Fresno LGBTQ Social Group www.gayfresno.com/social/ 14 Saturday 5:59p Imperial Dove Court - Coronation XXXVIII @ Piccadilly Inn Airport, 5115 E McKinley, idcfresno.org continued on page 3 Advertising Submission Information Submission deadline: 1st day of the month All submissions are to be sent via E-mail at NewsLnk@aol.com All Ads must be sized to fit our format. Articles and Calendar infomation All submissions should be Emailed to NewsLnk@aol.com by the 1st day of the month Letters to the Editor Please keep letters brief and to the point; we reserve the right to edit all letters as deemed necessary. Letters must include name and phone number of the writer. Advertising Rates Once (One Month) For Each Ad Business card.......................$15. 1/8 page Ad..........................$30. 1/4 page Ad..........................$60. 1/2 page Ad........................$120. Full page Ad.......................$240. Staff Editor........................................Jeff Robinson Assistant Editor ....................................Kirk C Proofreader...........................Dan Waterhouse Research Editor...................Juan Bustamante Accounts Receivable.............................Kirk C Advertising Coordinator...........Jeff Robinson Calendar Coordinator........................... Kirk C Distribution..Lorraine Wing, Kevin Caldwell, Daniel Corona, Tony O, Whitney W, Kaylee O The rate for ad work is $25 Quarterly (Three Months) For Each Ad Business card.......................$13. 1/8 page Ad..........................$25. 1/4 page Ad..........................$50. 1/2 page Ad........................$110. Full page Ad......................$215. Six Months For Each Ad Business card.......................$10. 1/8 page Ad..........................$20. 1/4 page Ad..........................$40. 1/2 page Ad..........................$80. Full page Ad......................$175. Color advertising now available at an addition $100. to the above rates Advertising Dimensions Business card Horizontal....................... 31/2”w x 2”h 1/8 page Ad 9 3/4”w x 1 15/16”h 2 5/16”w x 7 7/8” h 4 7/8”w x 3 7/8”h Horizontal....................... Vertical.......................... 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For further information go to www.comunitylinkfresno.com Content and Advertising Policy The News Link reserves the right to refuse any written content and graphics that are explicitly sexual in nature. Including logos and advertisements. No portrayal of genitalia or real or simulated sexual activities are appropriate for publication in the News Link, Pink Pages, Pride Program or any other Community Link publication. We reserve the right to edit content and ads without notification. Board of Directors Jeff Robinson Male-Cochair & CEO Lorraine Wing Female-Cochair Kevin Caldwell Secretary Juan Bustamante Treasurer Vacant Gray Alliance Representatives Rachel Wilson David Bergant Youth Alliance Representatives At-Large Members of the Board of Directors: Renee Potik, Kay Taus, Jerry & Ron, Kirk, Mark McKay, Andrew Strambi, Subscribe to News Link today! Yes, I would like to become a subscriber of Get your News Link delivered directly to your address. The News Link comes in a plain envelope, respecting your privacy. We never sell or trade our subscription lists. A subscription is $25.00 per year. 12 issues per year plus any special editions News Link ___Individual - $25. Name: Address: City, State, Zip: Telephone#: E-Mail Address: Send your subscription application to: Community Link P. O. Box 4959, Fresno, CA. 93744 WEEKLY GLBT & FRIENDLY EVENTS IN FRESNO * Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays 8am-11am, 1pm-4pm: Confidential HIV testing; Tuesdays 8am-11am & Thursdays 1pm-4pm: Anonymous HIV testing @ Fresno Co. Dept. of Community Health, 1221 Fulton Mall, 559-445-3434 * every Monday 10pm: PURE, 18+ GLBT night featuring the Haus of Hit drag show @ Aldo's, 617 W. Belmont Ave, facebook.com/purefresno, (559) 473-9362 * every Tuesday 6:30pm - Clogging Classes @ The Dance Studio of Fresno, 7491 N. Palm Bluff Ave., cagroundpounders.com, Barry (559) 259-9904 * every Tuesday evening - GLBT Support Group at a private residence, call Bill Robinson (559) 268-4015 * every Wednesday 11am: United Student Pride @ CSUFresno, meets at Women's Resource Center, see www.csufresno.edu/StudentOrgs/LGBSA/ * every Wednes. 7p: Fresno Rainbow Pride 2011 meets @ 1055 N Van Ness Ave, conf. room (except 5/4: at the Starline), (559) 486-3464, fresnorainbowpride.com * every Thursday 6pm Community Link's Queer Volley Ball @ Quigley Park (Dakota & Teilman), (559) 486-3464, communitylinkfresno.com * every Friday 2p: Diversity - Fresno City College GLBT group @ SO-208 * every Friday 7p - 8:30p: LGBTQI Youth Alliance @ Big Red Church, 2131 N. Van Ness Ave, www.communitylinkfresno.com * GayCentralValley office open Wednesdays 12-6pm, Fridays 12-5pm, Saturdays 12-6pm, Sundays 9am-12pm @1055 N. Van Ness Ave, suite C, (559) 325-4429, www.gaycentralvalley.org Corrections or event notices? E-mail: NEWSLNK@aol.com PICK “NEWS LINK” UP AT: FRESNO Brass Unicorn; Center for NonViolence; College Community Congregational Church; Echo Street Cafe; The Express; First Congregational Church; Fresno Video Exchange; Gay Central Valle office; Gazebo Gardens; Holy Family Episcopal Church; KAOS Headquarters; Living Room @ West Care; The North Tower Circle; Only For You II; Rasputin Music; The Red Lantern; Revue Coffee House; Tacos Marquitos; Unitarian Universalist Church; Wesley United Methodist Church; Women’s Resource Center @ CSUFresno; Wildcat Enterprises; Yoshi Now! BAKERSFIELD AIDS Project; Borders; MCC of the Harvest; Casablanca; The Mint; Wildcat. GOSHEN Wild Willy’s VISALIA Borders, sometimes Visalia Pride Lions Club meetings and PFLAG mtgs. MODESTO Borders; Brave Bull; College Avenue Congreg. Church; Haven Women’s Center; Queen Bean; Stanislaus County Assistance Project; Tiki Lounge; Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Stanislaus County. STOCKTON Borders; Club Paradise; Déjà vu Boutique; Peace & Justice Center; San Joaquin AIDS Foundation; San Joaquin County Public Health Services; University of Pacific Pride Center; Valley Ministries MCC. If you’d like to help us with distribution in Hanford, Visalia, Merced / Atwater / Turlock, or Oakhurst - e-mail NEWSLNK!aol.com NewsLink How to reach us by mail: News Link c/o Community Link, Inc. P.O. Box 4959, Fresno, Ca. 93744 News Link's E-Mail Address: NewsLnk@aol.com Community Link's E-Mail Address:CLinkInc@aol.com By phone: (559) 486-3464 www.CommunityLinkFresno.com MAY continued from page 2 14 Saturday 8p Golden State Bears - Pinata Bust @ The Express 708 N. Blackstone Ave, www.goldenstatebears.org 15 Sunday 11a Community Link - Board Meeting (559) 486-3464, www.communitylinkfresno.com 15 Sunday 11a Imperial Dove Court - Coronation XXXVIII Victory Brunch @ Piccadilly Inn Airport, 5115 E McKinley, idcfresno.org 15 Sunday Club Xtatic @ the North Tower Circle 2777 N Maroa Ave, northtowercircle.com 16 Monday 6:30p Yosemite Knights - Meeting & Dinner @ Carrows 4280 N Blackstone Ave, www.kofmfresno.com 18 Wed. 6:30p Golden State Bears - Dinner Night www.goldenstatebears.org 20 Friday 5p “It's A Queer Thang” Radio Show - KFCF 88.1 FM www.communitylinkfresno.com and www.kfcf.org 20 Friday 6p Men's Mixer @ TBA www.sunapsis.org/lgbt/mixer 20 Friday 6:30p Mariposa Azul - Meeting @ call for location Gaby (559) 266-5650 (Spanish) 21 Saturday 5p Trans-e-motion - Business Meeting Zoyer (559) 285-0795, Kelly (559) 307-9908, www.trans-e-motion.org 21 Saturday 11p Ladies of Seduction show @ the North Tower Circle 2777 N Maroa Ave, northtowercircle.com 21 Saturday DJ Irene @ the Express 708 N Blackstone Ave, thefresnoexpress.com 23 Monday 10p The Haus of Hit @ Pure, 18+ gay night @ Aldo's, 617 W. Belmont Ave, aldosnightclub.com, (559) 473-9362 25 Wed. 9a Project: MALE - HIV Think Tank @ 1584 N Van Ness Ave, (559) 268-1969 26 Thursday 7p The Group In Fresno - Munch www.tgifresno.org 27 Friday all day Dining Out For Pride @ Tacos Marquitos 1772 E Barstow, coupon at communitylinkfresno.com 28 Saturday 10a Fresno Rainbow Pride - Dedication of LGBT Tribute Tree corner of Fulton & Alhambra, (559) 486-3464, www.communitylinkfresno.com 28 Saturday 10a TGIFresno - Caliente Chili Cook Off competition @ Babylon Club, 1064 N. Fulton St., (559) 492-8402 29 Sunday 11a Golden State Bears - Brunch www.goldenstatebears.org 29 Sunday 9p Mariposa Azul - Divas Night @ Los Amigos, 1752 W. Shaw Ave, losamigosmex.com 29 Sunday Community Link's Gray Alliance - Potluck Liz or Lupe (559) 287-2428, communitylinkfresno.com 31 Tuesday 7p The Group In Fresno - sub/slave/bottom Discussion Group www.tgifresno.org 3 www.CommunityLinkFresno.com Celebrating Local Heroes: The Central California Alliance and the Bulldog Pride Fund proudly present “Celebrating Local Heroes” on Wednesday, May 11th at the Smittcamp Alumni House on the Fresno State campus. The evening's activities begins at 5:30 PM and includes a reception and presentation from three local heroes Robin McGehee (GetEqual and Meet in the Middle), Matthew Mazzei (Rainbow Delegation) and Andrew McIntosh (NCAA athlete, coach and educator). “Fresno is lucky to have three nationally-recognized heroes,” said Gary Mykins, CCA president. Advance tickets are priced at $5 for students, $10 for CCA members, and $15 for guests. Ticket prices are increased by $5 on the day of the event. Purchase tickets online @ CCAFRESNO.org and BULLODGPRIDE.org. NewsLink ROBIN McGEHEE Robin McGehee is a transplant from the Deep South who received her M.A. in human communication, with an emphasis on public speaking, interpersonal and intercultural communication, from Fresno State. She is an instructor at College of the Sequoias and believes strongly that 4 “When we Speak, We Shape the World!” She has been honored with the Martin Luther King, Jr. award for her work with Youth Empowerment, as well as a Freedom of Speech award by the Fresno Free College Foundation which operated KFCF 88.1 FM. She worked for four years with the GSA Network and Fresno's Reel Pride Gay and Lesbian film festival. Most recently she helped organize Meet in the Middle for Equality, a statewide reaction to the passage of Prop 8. She then was asked to codirect the successful National Equality March in Washington D.C. Most recently, she co-founded a direct action organization called, GetEQUAL - and, was arrested, twice when she handcuffed both to the White House fence as a way to bring attention for the repeal of Don't Ask; Don't Tell. In her free time she enjoys traveling and spending time with her family. Robin McGehee may be contacted via GetEQUAL @ www.getequal.org. MATTHEW MAZZEI Matthew Mazzei, a native of Fresno, is the founder of the Rainbow Delegation, a campaign which has quickly become an international effort to provide a visual presence of support for the LGBTQ community by wearing rainbow-colored wristbands. Since the fall of 2010, the Rainbow Delegation has managed to provide, free-of-charge, more than 45,000 wristbands around the world. He has been selected by Advocate magazine as “a reason to have Pride in 2011” and will be featured in the June 2011 issue. “The rainbow is a universal symbol of pride, strength and community,” says Mazzei. “Simply wearing a rainbow wristband shows others that you support them and that they belong.” Matthew is currently pursuing a master's degree in music at Fresno State. When he is not focusing his efforts on the administration of the Rainbow Delegation, Matt performs his duties as concertmaster of the Fresno State Symphony Orchestra, and as a violinist in the Fresno Philharmonic and Fresno Grand Opera. Matthew Mazzei and the Rainbow Delegation @ www.rainbowdelegation.org. ANDREW McINTOSH Andrew McIntosh graduated from State University of New York College at Oneonta with a B.S. in adolescence education. As a student, he was a cocaptain on the Men's Lacrosse Team. During his senior season he came out on an online essay featured on OutSports.com. His online essay touched the hearts of many people across the world and he was featured in many notable publications including The New York Times. In June of 2010, Andrew was featured in Advocate magazine as “one of 150 reasons to have Pride.” This was followed by being named to Out magazine's Out 100 list for 2010 - an honor that recognized “100 influential men and women have inspired, changed and shaped the world in 2010.” Currently Andrew resides in Fresno and is a teacher, coach and professional speaker. This fall, he will pursue a master's degree at Fresno State for counseling. Andrew McIntosh is represented by CampusSpeak @ www.campuspeak.com. After a week's delay for the rain that week and a delay from our first contractor not being quite ready for another week (despite having been given a week's head's up like he asked for) the roof was ripped off all in one day. For five days, we had a very, very large sky light in the bar. During those five days in early April, there was rain. Fortunately, the rain did not cause a lot of damage to the bar thanks mostly to The Phoenix Conveniently Infamous™ 4538 E. Belmont Ave. Fresno, CA 93702 Tommy Tran, ABC30.com Fresno Police are not calling this case a hate crime, but the owners there certainly feel they are being targeted because of their sexual orientation. Construction crews covered antigay slurs that had been written on the doors of "The Phoenix" bar Friday afternoon. Owner Karl Jensen now feels he's a victim of a hate crime. "It's become a little bit personal." Jensen and his partner Bryan Beckstrand walked into their bar Tuesday -- only to find their walls and mirrors covered with anti-gay words. A photo in particular shows two words that are most commonly used to offend members of the gay community spray painted on a wooden board. Jensen says the vandals carried out their attack in broad daylight while he went out to lunch. "I've seen the other graffiti and kind of thought okay maybe that's just kids stuff. But then when I felt like it was really targeting us, I think it really shook me up a little." said Jensen. Jensen and Beckstrand became the new owners of the bar after the roof had burned down last year. At the time the bar had been called "The Den." Fire investigators would not say arson was to blame -- but Jensen believes otherwise. Fresno Police officers arrived at the bar Friday night after Action News talked to police Chief Dyer about the incident. Police weren't aware of anything because Jensen and Beckstrand never reported it. But Dyer says they take any potential hate crime very seriously. "We do not want these things to reoccur. And we certainly don't want these things to escalate to the point where someone is injured." said Chief Dyer. Jensen says he hesitated on calling police because he quite frankly didn't know if they'd care. And despite the fact bar has had a troubled past -- he has no plans of moving out. "I didn't think the place would be the same some place else." The rebuilding process for the Phoenix bar started this week and owners aren't deterred by what happened. They plan on opening this place in June. Meanwhile police tell me they are working on at least one lead in this case. www.CommunityLinkFresno.com After more than four months of delays and spending a small fortune on various services, government fees, and a few other things better left forgotten, the City of Fresno issued us a building permit on March 21. The Phoenix Target of A Hate Crime Again Gay Bar In Fresno Vandalized LGBT+ Picnic Gather together with friends and family to picnic in the park. Bring your own picnic or buy a lunch combo. Celebrate Spring and the LGBT Community! Fun, Food and Friends! Door Prizes! "Just For Fun" Softball and Volleyball! Saturday, April 16th at 11am at Einstein Park, Dakota & Millbrook Ave. in Fresno. Hosted by Trans-e-motion and sponsored by Gay Central Valley, PFLAG-Fresno, United Student Pride. For more information, e-mail: zoyer_zyndel@yahoo.com NewsLink The Phoenix: Rising Soon having a concrete floor. Having a wood floor could have been disastrous. By the time you read this, the roof should be complete or nearly so. We still have all the other contractor work to complete: Electrical, plumbing, Heating and A/C, Insulation and exterior siding repairs. We're very close to announcing a grand opening celebration. We would have liked to have announced something with this article but because of where the Newslink deadline fell in the month, we didn't feel comfortable committing to anything; we don't want to make promises our contractors can't keep. Expect an announcement on our website, blog, Twitter and Facebook soon. You may find us on the Web at www.fresnophoenix.com. A very rough outline of what has happened and what has yet to happen is also available on the website by selecting "Status" on our website. If you'd like more detailed updates, you can keep up with the rebuilding status on our blog; select "Blog" on the same website. The blog is updated nearly every day. To find The Phoenix on Facebook and Twitter, select "Connect". If you have a suggestion for us, we welcome it in our Suggestion Box ("Suggest"). The Phoenix will be a new gay bar in the building formerly occupied by The Den. 5 www.CommunityLinkFresno.com Strike! And it's a wrap! by Rich Howard & Kirk, NewsLink Playbear Bunny-limp-ics & Pinata Bust Our April beverage bust / party will be titled “Playbear Bunny-limp-ics”! Bring out your inner Easter Bunny and come play games with us. What kind of games... maybe “Squeeze the carrot”? Or pelt someone with eggs? Or bunny sack races? Maybe marshmallow toss? We can't tell you yet! You're going to have to visit with us at the Express on Saturday, April 16th at 8pm (till midnight). $5 cover gets you most drinks half off. $3 food will be sold (most likely our famous hot dogs). In May, we're moving to second Saturday of the month. On May 14th expect another fun event, titled “Pinata Bust”! A tradition of many years for our club, it allows the participants to “shake hands with Big Blackie” - an adult toy will be used to break our pinata. Let's see YOU swing it! 8pm till midnight, $5 cover gets you most drinks half off, and Mexican food will be sold for $3 (probably our famous quesadillas!) www.goldenstatebears.org Community Link's season 4 of fall / winter Fresno Rainbow Bowling League has come to an end on St. Patrick's Day, and was followed by a season-end party. The last week of games (play-off week) always features Individual Championships, and the winners (in both male and female category) are the players who score the most pins plus their handicap in a single game. This year, the top three were: (3) Judy, (2) Michelle, (1) Angel and (3) Adrian, (2) Lewis, (1) Brian. Congratulations for having the best playoff game! Final team standings: 1. Friant Pharmacy (Rich, Angel, Paul, Harold) 2. 2X 2E: Two Chopsticks, Two Enchiladas (Sunny, Daniel, Carlos, Les) 3. Bamms (Brian, Abel, Marcos, Marco) 4. The Contenders (Rob, Ray, Joey, John B.) 5. Barry & Da Beavers (Barry, Judy, Sharon, Michelle) 6. Splits or Swallows (Richard, Ramiro, Mike Lu, Terry) 7. Pinheads (Kirk P, Kerry, Bill, Jeff) 8. Hardwoods (Eric, Doug, Lewis, Hector, Stella) Season highs (team/ male/ female): High Game Scratch - 726 The Contenders; 256 Marcos; 207 Angel. High Game Handicap - 738 Splits or Swallows; 284 Rob; 261 Angel. High Series Scratch - 1973 Chopsticks; 594 Sunny; 556 Angel, High Series Handicap - 1973 Chopsticks; 699 Barry; 676 Angel. Average game - 178 Sunny; 154 Angel. Most improved - 38 Rob; 24 Angel. Most dedicated substitute player Joe (54 games out of 66). Perfect attendance - Harold, Les, Ray, Rich and Rob. The players also voted on the Bowlers' Choice Awards, which were handed out at the party on April 2nd. Some of the categories are serious, some are tongue-in-cheek. The winners were: Most graceful bowler - Jeff. Best team shirt - Bamms. Most perverted - Kirk P. Most fun drunk - Chao. Best butt - Paul. Best basket - Paul. Best rack - Judy. Best team spirit - Bamms. The league's president, Rich Howard presented a special Initiative Award (funded by Tacos Marquitos) to Ray Quenga for his services to the league, among others starting the Facebook page and redesigning the logo. Thank you, Ray! The party was attended by over 50 people, lasted 8 hours, and featured a live DJ and dancing,plenty of food (Mexican food catered by Tacos Marquitos and wood-fired pizza by Mattie's Mobile Oven), a loooong Wii Bowling contest with a $20 prize (congratulations Howard, who just beat out Lily and Rich), a bowling ducky raffle with mini-bowling kits (Nun bowling & Penguin bowling), drinks, award ceremony (40 awards!) emceed by Rich and socializing. The weather was perfect and everyone had a great time. Thank you, Brian and Abel, for hosting it this year! We'll be back on May 12th with the Summer Edition of the Rainbow Bowling League - call Rich Howard at (559) 824-1417 if interested! Visit communitylinkfresno.com and click on Bowling! More pictures on pages 15 EASTER AT THE RED SUNDAY, APRIL 24 "GRAB YOUR HUEVOS" With Each Drink You Order, You Get A To Grab An Egg And A Chance At A Discount On Your Next Drink 4:00 pm to 2:00 am "BAR-B-Q ON THE PATIO" With Your Chef Jon Jon - "JoAnna" 6:00 pm NewsLink "EASTERN BONNET CONTEST" A Prize For The Best “Easter Bonnet” Desserts Provided By Friends Of Carol For Empress 7:00 pm 6 "KARAOKE" A Fun Filled Evening of Music and Song 9:00 pm sent to and made out to Community Link marked “Pride” in the memo section to P.O. Box 4959, Fresno, Ca 93744 or via PayPal at www.FresnoRainbowPride.com Pride Parkette/ Pride Plaza For nearly 20 years Fresno has celebrated its GLBT Pride in the Tower District. The Pride Festival has been for about 16 years been an “L” shaped street festival at the intersections of Fulton & Alhambra Streets. During all of these years there has been a ran down city parcel that has been both an eye sore and a problem to work around. In the past the Pride Committee put the trash bins and porta-potties on this piece of land. Pride Parkette/Pride Plaza, is our attempt to have our own small patch of green in the Tower. Community Link has made a commitment to maintain this area year round. This area is designated by the city as a street median, but we look at as a small park hence the term “Parkette.” The parkette is a triangular shaped space. It is where Wishon and Fulton merge at Alhambra Street, just south of and across the street from Veni Vidi Vici’s. Last year the Pride Committee decided to turn this into a green space in the midst of this asphalt hard-scape. We weeded, did major trimming of some of the trees, repaired a sprinkler system on the grass area, weeded and seeded the lawn area, replanted the flower beds, and add some color around two trees that are planted along Wishon Avenue. The old rock and concrete water fountain that is no longer in working order was planed with pink, purple, and white flowering petunias. Community Link also installed four flag poles from which we flew the American Flag, the State flag and to rainbow flags. This year we worked with Tree Fresno and removed a dying tree and planted a Tribute Tree in its place, that is dedicated to all of the GLBT victims of bullying. A dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony will be held Saturday, May 28th at 10 am. Please join us has we dedicate the tree and the Pride Parkette/Pride Plaza. Our second phase has included working again with PG&E’s Pride Network, the Fresno Youth Alliance, community Link and the Fresno Rainbow Pride Committee as we continue our beautification project. In the future the Tribute tree will provide ample shade and a nice place to cool off on our special day of Pride. This year we are hoping to create a green grassy place to sit and enjoy the Pride Festival complete with some rainbow beach umbrellas for additional shade. Future plans include benches for seating, community art project, solar powered automated system for the sprinklers and the restoration of the historic rock water fountain. Dedication of the GLBT Tribute Tree Saturday, May 28, 2011, 10am Dedication & Ribbon Cutting Fulton Street & Alhambra No one in the GLBTQ community can say that they have not been bullied or have endured derogatory slurs whether directly aimed at them or to others around them. Last month Community Link planted a 15 gallon Chinese Pistachio Tree with the assistance of Tree Fresno in a program of theirs called Tribute Trees, The tree, while small, will have a small metal plaque attached to it stating that this tree is dedicated to the GLBT community and will become the anchor to Community Link’s beautification projects in the Pride Festival area. The community is invited to attend the dedication and rainbow ribbon cutting ceremony as we remember those who have suffered greatly at the bullies’ hands and their words and look towards the days when everyone is accepted for who they are. This ceremony is open to the pubic at no charge. Donations, checks will be accepted, will however be greatly appreciated and be directed towards the maintenance of and improvements to the Pride Parkette/Pride Plaza. www.CommunityLinkFresno.com Team Pride Needs You! Fresno Rainbow Pride needs to raise $15,000 before Parade Day. This will be our third year of difficult economic times. Our Pride sponsors have been effected by the bad economy. Some of them have gone out of business, others have scaled back on their patronage, and some are no longer able to join us in producing the largest one day GLBT event in the whole Valley. Many Prides across the state are drowning in red ink or have cancelled the events all together. With your help we will not go down this course. Fresno Rainbow Pride is very frugal, something we have been derided about from some in the community who feel we should drop a $1,000 here or $2,000 there to bring in one entertainment act or two. A high priced act would be fun, but is not prudent. The truth is this a $35,000 event and every nickel and dime is budgeted out and well planned. From city permits, liability insurance, state liquor license, county fees, property use fees, security officers, advertising, promotional items, printing cost, program costs, fencing, generators, sound systems, staging, tables, chairs, canopies, barricades, traffic control, Volunteer T-Shirts, port-a-potties, hand washing stations, trash dumpsters, postage, children’s activities, and other numerous supplies equipment. There is not much that can be scaled back or eliminated. We are almost at bare bones and with some of the items that we could save on we are obligated to to our sponsors to provided as part of their benefits packets. So here it is, we need your financial help. Become a member of Team Pride by either sponsoring the Fresno Rainbow Pride celebration. Sponsorships start at a modest $250 and go up to higher levels of patronage. As an individual, couple or family you could become a Pride Partner by making donation of any size. Remember that all donations and sponsorships are tax deducible as Community Link is a 501(c) 3 charitible organization. Donations and sponsorships may be NewsLink Fresno Rainbow Pride Come join Fresno's Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender + (GLBT+) Community, as well as visitors from all over the Central Valley, as they celebrate the 21st anniversary of Pride with this year's Pride Parade and Festival for 2011. This is perhaps the single biggest event in the GLBT+ Community annually, as well as the most elaborate in its organization and preparation, for Fresno and its surrounding communities. This must attend event will take place on Saturday June 4th 2011 in the Tower District from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The parade takes place from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Olive, beginning at Palm and ending at Maroa. The festival is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on N. Fulton Street. Put on by the Fresno Rainbow Pride Committee, Fresno's Pride Parade and Festival serves as a cultural earmark of a very diverse and unique community. With the theme of Rainbow Pride, this year marks another milestone of the initiative that made Fresno history and sparked the emergence of Pride as a celebratory event. Pride symbolizes the feeling of dignity one feels in being content about who they are, a feeling invigorated with each subsequent year that Fresno sees this event. This is a social gathering as it is a reminder of the progress our community has made. With various dynamic performers, in drag and not, food, informational and merchandise booths, music, and inspirational speakers, this event is a must-attend, as it will educate and, indeed, entertain. This event, founded in 1991, has grown in participants and popularity, sometimes producing over 3,000 in attendance, and entices community members all over the Central Valley into its tradition. Since its birth, and despite all previous contenders, this event continues to thrive as a symbol of our community's enduring resilience. This event is open to all and any who would like to attend. Please join Fresno and its partnering GLBT+ Communities for this event; your attendance is your support. It never gets too old to celebrate the feeling of Pride! To find out more about this exciting event, please visit www.fresnorainbowpride.com 7 www.CommunityLinkFresno.com NewsLink 8 What is the Imperial Dove Court? By Jon Archer Pace We have all heard about this group called “the Court”. They are a group of people made up of men, women, and drag queens that run around the Fresno and Madera countryside asking for money. This group of people works very hard to raise money for the community. After the Court pays all their bills, all the extra money they raise goes to Fresno and Madera non-profit groups. The Court is one of the oldest L.G.B.T. non-profit groups in Fresno, starting over 38 years ago. A part of the Court’s preamble when it started so many years was and still is today is “Service through united action, guided by intelligence, is the hallmark of this corporation. Believing such unity essential for the mutual understanding and advancement of the interests and general welfare of citizens throughout Fresno and Madera Counties, we have formed this corporations, the objects of which shall be: to cultivate friendship among its members; to promote harmonious relations between members and community; to place the members of this corporation on a higher plane of understanding and concern of their fellow man; and to be of assistance and aid to all who are in need, if it is within our power to do so”. Candidate for Emperor 38 Jon Archer Pace Candidate for Empress 38 Carol I am one of those people, and I would like to be the next Emperor of the Imperial Dove Court de Fresno/Madera, Inc. My name is Jon Archer Pace. I’m have been part of the Gay Community and the Court for many years. I would not be running if I didn’t believe in the Court and the community. The money we raise as the Court will help other non-profit groups in Fresno and Madera. We must also have to more understanding and concern of the needs of the fellow L.G.B.T. in the community. In May, there is a three-day celebration of the year’s accomplishments and the election of the new heads of the Court. They are Emperor and Empress, President for most other groups. We ask members of the Court to run for these titles. Some years we have a lot of members that would like this very hard job, and other years not so many. In the many days to come before the election, I will be out and very happy to talk one on one with anyone in the community. The voting will be at the Piccadilly Inn-Airport, on May 14th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and again at Coronation Ballroom from 4:59 p.m. to 5:59 p.m. Please vote for me, Jon Archer Pace for Emperor 38. For more information about the Imperial Dove Court de Fresno/Madera, Inc., please go to www.IDCfresno.org. Hello, my name is Carol Renee and I am the candidate for Empress 38 of the Imperial Dove Court de Fresno/Madera Inc. I have been involved with the court for the past fourteen years. Along with the other candidate, we have several events planned in the coming weeks and I look forward to meeting with as many of you as I can. I would love to hear your thoughts and opinions about our community and answer any questions that you might have. Come meet me and talk to me during a Meet & Greet on Easter Sunday, April 24th at the Red Lantern (4618 E Belmont, Fresno) at 7pm. There will be an Easter Bonnet contest with prizes! No show, no charge, just good fun! Looking forward to meeting you! We have been working on the schedule of events for the coming year and have some wonderful things planned along with our Ducal Ball, Pre-Thanksgiving, Closet Ball and 3M Pageant, along with that we have several smaller events planned and hope to bring some new ideas to the community to help raise money for those less fortunate, and hopefully bring back some fun times to the community. So show your support for me and come and vote May 14, 2011 at Coronation 38, Piccadilly Inn Airport in Fresno! Get on the PRIDE TRAIN join the PRIDE TEAM Fresno needs you to be a SPONSOR make a DONATION become a VOLUNTEER nominate a Grand Marshal present an IDEA come to a MEETING check out our WEBSITE FresnoRainbowPride.com Back in the 1960s, pioneering gay activists found an obscure passage from a 1948 book written by prominent sex researcher Alfred Kinsey that read, “10 percent of the males are more or less exclusively homosexual ._._. for at least three years between the ages of 16 and 55.” They used that quote to claim that 10 percent of the population was gay, even though Kinsey's study was not designed to make a population-based estimate. The motivation behind using the 10 percent figure was less about science and more about politics. In those days, gay activists needed to prove the very existence of a gay community. One in 10 was big enough to “matter.” It certainly mattered to me when, as a young, closeted gay man, I would look around a classroom with 50 people in it and think, “Wow, there are four other people here just like me.” But the percentage was not so large as to overly threaten a society still extremely uncomfortable with the idea of gay people. The fact that the 1in-10 figure still gets bandied about is a testament to the brilliance of this political strategy. Lots of Americans have no idea how many people are gay or lesbian. A 2002Gallup poll suggested that one in six Americans had no estimate, and those who did have an opinion put the figure at a whopping 20 percent. As a demographer who studies the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community, I've been asked how many LGBT people there are more often than I can count. Politics may still play a role in why the answer is New Jersey. An estimated 19 million Americans (8.2 percent) report having engaged in some same-sex sexual behavior, and nearly 26 million (11 percent) report some same-sex sexual attraction. The latter figure is equivalent to the population of Texas. But as a population scientist, I don't want to have to comb research for pertinent data to average. I've attended dozens of meetings with representatives from federal statistical agencies to ask them why they are not counting the LGBT population. They tell me that they worry about survey respondents refusing to answer such questions or, even worse, terminating the survey. They also wonder exactly what questions to ask. Should they count only those who explicitly identify themselves using terms such as “lesbian,” “gay” or “bisexual”? Or should they measure sexual behavior? Or sexual attraction? For the transgender population, should they include only those who have explicitly transitioned from one gender to another, or should they consider a broader group of people who express their gender in ways that do not easily conform to traditional notions of male and female? The Ford Foundation recently funded a five-year study in which scholars considered these important questions. They concluded that concerns about non-response or survey termination are unfounded. Respondents decline to answer questions about their income much more often than they refuse to provide information about their sexual orientation or gender identity. As to concerns about what we mean by LGBT, there is no precise definition. Instead, the scholars came to a consensus on a set of questions that measure different aspects of sexual orientation, including self-identification, sexual behavior and sexual attraction, and documented best practices for assessing gender identity. Not every survey must ask questions about every dimension of sexual orientation and gender identity, but rather they should consider what dimensions make sense to measure, given the purpose of the survey. A survey designed to measure workplace discrimination, for instance, may focus more on those who publicly identify as LGBT, since it can be difficult to make a case that you are being discriminated against because of your sexual orientation or gender identity unless you've been open about it. A survey that considers HIV risk factors may want to include questions about sexual behavior, since that is the most likely mechanism for becoming infected. A survey of younger people might want to focus more on sexual attraction, since many young people have not had any sexual experiences and are not yet comfortable with specific labels of their sexual or gender identity. In fact, the number of people who self-identify as LGBT can and will differ from the number who say they have same-sex sexual experiences and the number who acknowledge samesex attractions. Differences in these estimates do not mean we can't measure the LGBT population with accuracy. Rather, they demonstrate that sexual orientation and gender identity are complex concepts worthy of further study. Continued on page 10 www.CommunityLinkFresno.com By Gary J. Gates, critically important, but there certainly is no longer a need to prove that gay people exist. Today, quantifying the population is about documenting how LGBT people live their lives. How many marry? How often do they have children? How many are serving in the military? How often do they experience discrimination? These facts matter because legislatures, courts and voters across the country are debating how LGBT people should live their lives. All parties deserve to be informed by fresh research, not a six-decade-old study. We should be able to search the standard places where scholars and policy advocates go for information about the health and well-being of Americans - all Americans. Places such as the Census Bureau's decennial count and American Community Survey, the premier sources of demographic data in this country. Or the National Health Interview Survey, a primary source of information about Americans' health. Or the Current Population Survey, the preeminent source of information about the nation's economic well-being. Or the National Crime Victimization Survey, where we get most of our data about experiences of crime. But searching these sources for information about LGBT people would be largely futile. None ask questions about sexual orientation or gender identity. I recently reviewed findings from 11 large surveys conducted since 2004, seven in the United States and four internationally. Averaging across the U.S.-based surveys, I found that nearly 9 million Americans (3.8 percent of adults) self-identify as LGBT. That's equivalent to the population of NewsLink Gay people count, so why not count them correctly? 9 ∏ ∏ ∏ ∏ www.CommunityLinkFresno.com NewsLink ∏ 10 Don’t Ask Don’t Tell The Local Story In December, when President Obama signed the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal Act of 2010," I breathed a sigh of relief. Although there is still work to do to make repeal fully inclusive and get it implemented, my hope was that at least now we would not lose another servicemember because of that discriminatory law. After so many discharges even as late as last year [1], I thought we were finally out of the woods. Sadly, I thought wrong. A short time ago, we were contacted by an active-duty servicemember who -- despite the repeal of this horrible law -- is still going through the process of being discharged. The process started for him on November 8, 2009, when someone anonymously outed him after seeing his MySpace page. Within weeks, his discharge process began -- but it limped along while the government waffled about what to do about repeal. A year went by before he got any kind of update, each day believing it was his last day to serve his country. After the repeal bill was signed into law, he believed his case to be over. But Derek got bad news earlier this month. Despite DADT repeal, his case is still being pursued and his hearing is scheduled for tomorrow. With implementation still not in place, is this the Navy's attempt to slip in another discharge or bully him with a hearing...just because they still can? Click here to show your support for Derek and to fight back against his discharge! Derek joined the Navy right after high school -- here are his own words: This lengthy matter has been tearing me up; it has destroyed relationships and displaced loved ones who were relying on me. But even after the U.S. Government has made it clear they don't want this law in effect the Navy has said that, because the paperwork has been submitted and the policy is technically still active, they have no choice but to continue. I have been in the U.S. Navy since I graduated high school. It's all I know and all I want to do. I have dreams of grandeur, hopes of retiring a young, highly-decorated, respected senior enlisted sailor. My resolve is weakened but not broken. I just have to place my fate in the hands of three strangers -- strangers who I hope have strong moral convictions and likeminded sentiments to my own. Derek Morado Update We did it!! I just got off the phone with Petty Officer Derek Morado, the servicemember who was facing discharge today in California despite "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" having been repealed 100 days ago. In short, I have great news to report -- by a vote of 3-0, Derek was recommended for retention. With your help, Derek gets to not only save his career, but walk prouder -- without the burden of discrimination on his shoulders. This is good news for a few reasons -- it shows the power of grassroots efforts to apply pressure and the reality that, when we expose the truth and stand up for our dignity, we win. We don't know how many other servicemembers are facing discharge, but we will not rest until all Americans -LGB and T -- are free to serve their country freely, openly, honestly, and without danger of discharge. Today was a victory, and we're grateful to Derek for lending his story and his voice to highlight the fact that servicemembers are still facing the discharge process, even 100 days after the law was repealed. We're also grateful to our friends at AMERICAblog Gay, who partnered with us to send Derek into the courtroom with the names of thousands of supporters who were unwilling to let this happen without pushing back. This was a good day and I thank each of you who supported this effort. The GetEQUAL community means the world to me, and I know that, tonight, Derek will hit the pillow with a lot less stress and a lot more PRIDE because of you. Thank you! Get Out! Get Active! GetEQUAL! Robin McGehee, Director Gay people count Continued from page 9 The Institute of Medicine of the National Academies recently released a comprehensive analysis of the state of research on LGBT health and wellbeing. Recommendations from the report include LGBT inclusion across a wide range of federal surveys, coupled with increased support for federally funded LGBT research. This was welcome news. Federal statistical agencies can and should heed this call. Such data could provide the building blocks for critical research to understand the lives of LGBT Americans, who have too often been marginalized by researchers, as well as society at large. I often hear LGBT advocates lament that it seems absurd that they don't have equal rights in this country, given how large their community is. As a demographer, I look at it a little differently. I'm amazed at how close we are to equality, given how small the community is. Both perspectives are certainly valid, but both depend in part on an accurate assessment of the LGBT community - however you define it. Assumptions about people are flimsy; numbers are solid. The reality of our political system is that you don't really count unless you are counted. So it's time to stop believing an old estimate and start making an accurate count. Gary J. Gates is the Williams distinguished scholar at the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law and a co-author of “The Gay and Lesbian Atlas.” gates@law.ucla.edu “Untied: A Memoir of Family, Fame, and Floundering” by Meredith Baxter; published by Crown Archetype, March 2011, 304 pages. “I remember Sarah asking me, when I'd just begun therapy with her, what I looked for in a man. After a few moments of silent, tense deliberation I had it. 'Hair,' I blurted. 'He has to have hair.'” Meredith Baxter is a beloved and iconic television actress, most wellknown for her enormously popular role as hippie mom, Elyse Keaton, on Family Ties. Her warmth, humor, and brilliant smile made her one of the most popular women on television, with millions of viewers following her on the small screen each week. Yet her success masked a tumultuous personal story and a harrowing private life. For the first time, Baxter is ready to share her incredible highs, (working with Robert Redford, Doris Day, Lana Turner, and the cast of Family Ties), and lows (a thorny relationship with her mother, a difficult marriage to David Birney, a bout with breast cancer), finally revealing the woman behind the image. From her childhood in Hollywood, growing up the daughter of actress and co-creator of One Day at a Time Whitney Blake, Baxter became familiar with the ups and downs of show business from an early age. After wholeheartedly embracing the 60s counterculture lifestyle, she was forced to rely on her acting skills after her first divorce left her a 22-year-old single mother of two. Baxter began her professional career with supporting roles in the critically panned horror film Ben, and in the political thriller All the President's Men. More lucrative work soon followed on the small screen. Baxter starred with actor David Birney as the title characters in controversial sitcom Bridget Loves Bernie. While the series only lasted a year, her high-pro- “Porn from Warhol to X-Tube: The History of Gay Porn With Lots of Images and Fascinating Facts” edited by Kevin Clarke; published by Bruno Gmunder Verlag Gmbh, March 2011, 260 pages. PORN. Behind those four letters there's a cosmos that has grown bigger and bigger during the last four decades. It has eventually grown as big, as nobody would ever have thought it's possible. Porn nowadays is much more than only sex and industry. It's an essential and influencing component of art and pop culture. Especially when it comes to the selfconcept of gay men - pornography plays a very important part. Because no matter how the individual thinks about it: The gay rights movement and the triumphal procession of porn media happened at the same time and they have determined each other in a lot of ways. That's why PORN is having a closer look on gay pornographic culture. From the discrete beginnings in the end of the 60s, when adult entertainment material was still forbidden, to the big studios like Falcon and Bel Ami, who created their own significant brand; from Andy Warhol's revolutionary erotic underground movies to popular websites like xtube, where everyone can have his 15 minutes of fame as a porn star: The whole world is PORN. With comprehensive texts, interviews with directors such as icon Chi Chi LaRue and of course “The L Life: Extraordinary Lesbians Making a Difference” by Erin McHugh, photographs by Jennifer May; published by Stewart, Tabori & Chang, March 2011, 160 pages. There have been few cultural touchstones to open people's eyes to everyday lesbian life-until now. Through fascinating interviews and stunning portrait photography, The L Life introduces us to the women who are changing our view of the world. This candid collection is a celebration of real women, alongside headlinemakers such as breast cancer researcher and bestselling author Dr. Susan Love; groundbreaking authors Alison Bechdel and Ann Bannon; entertainers such as actress Jane Lynch and comedian Kate Clinton; Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin and longtime activist Phyllis Lyon; awardwinning film producer Christine Vachon; and many more. “Adam's Gift: A Memoir of a Pastor's Calling to Defy the Church's Persecution of Lesbians and Gays” by Jimmy Creech; published by Duke University Press Books, March 2011, 368 pages. Jimmy Creech, a United Methodist pastor in North Carolina, was visited one morning in 1984 by Adam, a longtime parishioner whom he liked and respected. Adam said that he was gay, and that he was leaving The United Methodist Church, which had just pronounced that no “self-avowed practicing homosexual” could be ordained. He would not be part of a community that excluded him. Creech found himself instinctively supporting Adam, telling him that he was sure that God loved and accepted him as he was. Adam's Gift is Creech's inspiring first-person account of how that conversation transformed his life and ministry. Adam's visit prompted Creech to re-evaluate his belief that homosexuality was a sin, and to research the scriptural basis for the church's position. He determined that the church was mistaken, that scriptural translations and interpretations had been botched and dangerously distorted. As a Christian, Creech came to believe that discriminating against lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people was morally wrong. This understanding compelled him to perform samegender commitment ceremonies, which conflicted with church directives. Creech was tried twice by The United Methodist Church, and, after the second trial, his ordination credentials were revoked. Adam's Gift is a moving story and an important chapter in the unfinished struggle for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender civil and human rights. www.CommunityLinkFresno.com with a whole lot of pictures, PORN lights up a genre which isn't considered dirty anymore but has become a glamorous part of our society. Editor Kevin Clarke studied musicology and literature. He worked for some famous magazines including the Tagesspiegel and the German Playboy. He is also the producer of several radio shows. Since 2011 he is the chief editor of Germany's No. 1 gay lifestyle magazine MÄNNER. “A Saving Remnant: The Radical Lives of Barbara Deming and David McReynolds” by Martin Duberman; published by The New Press, March 2011, 336 pages. By the time their paths first crossed in the 1960s, Barbara Deming and David McReynolds had each charted a unique course through the political and social worlds of the American left. Deming, a feminist, journalist, and political activist with an abiding belief in nonviolence, had been an out lesbian since the age of sixteen. The first openly gay man to run for president of the United States, on the Socialist Party ticket, McReynolds was also a longtime opponent of the Vietnam War-he was among the first activists to publicly burn a draft card after this became a felony-and friend to leading activists and artists from Bayard Rustin to Quentin Crisp. In this remarkable dual biography, the prize-winning historian Martin Duberman reveals a vital historical milieu of activism, radical ideas, and coming to terms with homosexuality when the gay rights movement was still in its nascent stages. With a cast of characters that includes intellectuals, artists, and activists from the critic Edmund White and the writer Mary McCarthy to the young Alvin Ailey and Allen Ginsberg, A Saving Remnant is a brilliant achievement from one of our most important historians. NewsLink Following are some of the many new, interesting GLBT-themed books. They are not reviews they’re book descriptions provided by the publishers. file romance with Birney lasted 15 volatile and unhappy years. Hiding the worst of her situation from even those closest to her, Baxter's career flourished as her self-esteem and family crumbled. Her successful run as Nancy on Family was followed by her enormously popular role on Family Ties, and dozens of well-received television movies. After a bitter divorce and custody battle with Birney, Baxter increasingly relied on alcohol as a refuge, and here speaks candidly of her decision to take her last drink in 1990. And while another ruinous divorce to screenwriter Michael Blodgett taxed Baxter's strength and confidence, she has emerged from her experiences with the renewed selfassurance, poise, and understanding that have enabled her to find a loving, respectful relationship with Nancy Locke, and to speak about it openly. Told with insight, wit, and disarming frankness, Untied is the eye-opening and inspiring life of an actress, a woman, and a mother who has come into her own. 11 www.CommunityLinkFresno.com Motivational Spark Plugs By Ron Blake Motivational quotes are the spark plugs to our wellness engines. You can have a full tank of gas, a clean carburetor, all the fluids topped off, and 300 horsepower of Detroit's finest under the hood but you're going nowhere without that initial spark. In your quest for well-being, you need to have a catalyst to move you from idle to ideal. Here are some motivational jolts to get your health and fitness vehicle moving. Thomas Paine said, “The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph.” You will have conflicts with making time for exercise each day. The treadmill will conflict with enjoyment of the cushioned couch and its fluffy pillows in your living room. Your body will engage in conflict with dumbbells and exercise balls as it seeks better health. Embrace these conflicts with excitement and walk through the smoke and fire. Triumph is waiting on the other side. John F. Kennedy said, “Things do not happen. Things are made to happen.” The firefighter's 55 pound weight loss did not just happen one day on a call with Ladder Company 14. The computer programmer's success in the Chicago Marathon did not just happen on a Sunday in October. The 4th grade teacher's significant drop in cholesterol level did not just happen the day before spring break at Coolidge Elementary. These people made things happen…and it took time. Ralph Marston was quoted as say- ing, “What you do today can improve all your tomorrows.” Let today be the first day in 28 years without a cigarette. Stay an extra 5 minutes on the recumbent bike at the gym today. Start training today for the 3 day breast cancer walk that is scheduled for November. Tomorrow is always waiting to see what you put in your piggy bank today. Invest wisely and watch the dividends grow. Jill McLemore once said, “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you will land amongst the stars.” Set that goal to trim 75 pounds from your body. Only losing 42 pounds puts you out there with the North Star. Aim to run 750 miles this year. Coming up 68 miles short will still put you past that former planet Pluto and on your way to the Orion constellation. Dropping eight waist sizes by Christmas instead of the projected ten will let you glow with the luminescence of several brilliant wonders in the sky. By the way, I think there's a full moon tonight! Zig Ziglar stated, “You don't have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.” Tom Cruise was another aspiring pretty face in Hollywood about 30 years ago before starting to audition for parts in TV shows. Jared was a morbidly obese college student at Indiana University in the 1990s before beginning his Subway diet. Mark Zuckerberg was just another starry-eyed Ivy Leaguer about the turn of the century until he began to implement a social network idea. They all have that common bond…they started something. These motivational quotes should help get your wellness motor running. Once your car is started there's no telling where your health and fitness can go. Send me a postcard when you get there! This health and fitness article is brought to you by that guy who's sneaky like a black hole and bright like a nebula. That guy is Ron Blake and he can be found playing with his telescope at rblake5551@hotmail.com. "IN THE LIFE Presents: Backlash or Evolution? April 2011 national implications. Then, as progress and conservative backlash enflame the marriage controversy at the State and Federal levels, we take a step back to look at a country divided. See other episodes in the 19th Season The Importance of Being Iowa Iowa poses an important question to the rest of the country: Should voters be allowed to decide whether gay and lesbian couples have the right to marry? "We felt the case was going to be successful because people here realize that those are my neighbors or those are my friends, and they're good people." -Jen BarbouRoske Backlash or Evolution? As victories and defeats ebb and flow state by state, public support for marriage equality is edging upward. "The gay community has a good opportunity, better than ever, to pass gay marriage in New York this year. I would vote against it, but realistically, it's a good possibility." - State Senator Rubin Diaz (D-New York) This month's episode has already aired. Watch it and other past episodes at www.inthelifetv.org 2011 is poised to be a pivotal year in the movement toward marriage equality for gay and lesbian couples, with both sides of the debate encouraged the pendulum will swing their way. IN THE LIFE travels to Iowa where social conservatives use unprecedented tactics to repeal equal marriage rights in a campaign with Community Link’s Gray Alliance We’re a group that knows it may get a little harder as we go, but We Get Better With Age! The Gray Alliance doesn’t just live life, WE CELEBRATE IT! Tower Health & Diet Foods 1130 N. Fulton at Olive In the Tower District 237-8479 We are a friendly group of graying folks who enjoy each other’s company and their unique personalities. We are social, like doing activities and eating out. We have a monthly night out, usually at Denny’s at Shields & Blackstone on SECOND WEDNESDAYS. We also have a monthly pot luck dinner at either a members’ home or at the Big Red Church, 2131 N. Van Ness Blvd on LAST SUNDAYS. NewsLink 12 Gray Alliance welcomes all women & men within the “graying” Lesbian and Gay Community. For more information call Liz Brown at 559-287-2428 or email: xmas1225@att.net Hours: Mon-Fri 9-5:30 Sat Same location for your vitamin & food supplement needs since 1955 9-5 Sun 11-4 Closed Major Hoildays Check out the Gray Alliance section at: www.communitylinkfresno.com nation," said Masen Davis, Executive Director of the Transgender Law Center. "We need to create a culture in which it is no longer acceptable for transgender and gender non-conforming youth to be bullied, beaten or harassed. All children deserve to live their lives fully and authentically." Students will also discuss the FAIR Education Act, authored by Senator Leno, which would prohibit discriminatory education and ensure that LGBT people are fairly and accurately included in instructional materials. By including fair and accurate information about LGBT people and history in instructional materials, SB 48 will improve student safety, reduce bullying, enrich the learning experiences of all students, and promote an atmosphere of safety and respect in California schools. www.CommunityLinkFresno.com Some seventy high school students are in Sacramento today where they will meet with lawmakers to discuss the need for greater protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth. The students include LGBT and straight ally young people from small towns and cities across the state, many of whom traveled hundreds of miles to speak out about bullying and discrimination in their schools at the annual event known as Queer Youth Advocacy Day. Students will rally at the State Capitol's South Steps at 11:00 a.m. where they will be joined by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson, Senator Mark Leno (D-San Francisco), Senator Christine Kehoe (D-San Diego), and Assemblymembers Rich Gordon (DSan Mateo), Tom Ammiano (D-San Francisco), Toni Atkins (D-San Diego), and Ricardo Lara (D-Bell Gardens). Following the rally, students will visit their representatives' offices to discuss three new pieces of legislation that aim to decrease bullying and make California's public schools more safe and inclusive of LGBT youth: Seth's Law (AB 9); the Fair, Accurate, head back home to inspire positive change in their schools and to improve the lives of young people in California." "Seth's Law," authored by Assemblymember Ammiano, would ensure that every school in California implements updated anti-harassment and anti-discrimination policies and programs that include actual or perceived sexual orientation and gender identity and expression, as well as race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, disability, and religion. It would also empower students and parents to know what their rights are, and how to advocate for them. AB 9 is named "Seth's Law" in memory of Seth Walsh, a 13 year-old gay student from Tehachapi, California, who took his life in September 2010 after facing years of relentless anti-gay harassment at school that school officials effectively ignored. "We are excited to sponsor Queer Youth Advocacy Day, working with young people to encourage California lawmakers to improve school climate for all students," said Trevor Project Executive Director Charles Robbins. "When educational spaces promote good psychological well-being, it benefits everyone." Participants are also discussing the Gender Nondiscrimination Act, authored by Assemblymember Toni Atkins (D-San Diego), which seeks to strengthen employment, housing, and other civil rights protections for LGBT people. "The discrimination that transgender people face is life threatening. Even when youth who don't fit narrow gender stereotypes are comfortable being who they are, their classmates and schools often are not, and they face unfair harassment and discrimi- ∏ The Fresno Youth Alliance A Group for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual,Transgender & Questioning Teens & Young adults A Safe and Sane Substance-Free Place 2BProud Meets every Friday Night from 7 pm to 8:30 pm at The Big Red Church 2131 N. Van Ness Blvd For more information call Jeff: 486-3464 NewsLink Youth to Meet with Elected Officials to Call for Protections Against Bullying and Discrimination Inclusive and Respectful (FAIR) Education Act (SB 48); and the Gender Nondiscrimination Act (AB 887). Youth participants will also testify on Tuesday afternoon when the FAIR Education Act is heard in the Senate Judiciary Committee. "Especially given the tragic suicides of numerous young people in the past year, it is crucial that legislators hear and understand the stories of youth who are working in their schools and their communities to combat bullying and harassment based on sexual orientation and gender identity," said Senator Leno. "I am inspired by the passion and resolve that these students have brought to Sacramento with their unified goal to make California a safer place for all young people." "Bullying and harassment continue to be a pervasive problem in California schools, with heartbreaking consequences. Youth leaders from Gay-Straight Alliance clubs across the state are here today to say, 'enough.' They are telling their stories to lawmakers who have the opportunity to make it better for LGBT youth by supporting the FAIR Education Act, Seth's Law, and the Gender Nondiscrimination Act," said Carolyn Laub, Executive Director of GayStraight Alliance Network, a national safe schools organization that has been taking students to advocate in Sacramento since 1999. "We cannot expect students to learn the important skills they need to be successful in life if they don't feel safe at school," said Jim Carroll, interim executive director at Equality California. "We are proud of the fearless and committed youth who are sharing their stories today. They will 13 ∏ ∏ The Hit List hosted by the Lady Hit Fridays 8pm-9pm on Centralvalleytalk .com Guests Shannon Price Jeff Robinson Pride Parkette/Pride Plaza The reclaiming of a run down city parcel part 2--the planting of a Tribute Tree with Tree Fresno for all of the victims of GLBT Bullying. The volunteer crew consisted of PG&E’s Pride network, the Fresno Youth Alliance, Community Link’s board members and the Fresno Rainbow Pride Committee. Photos above and below are by Juan Bustamante GSA Network & Community Link’s ENS Youth Confernce 03/26/11 Photos by Josh Knoll & Juan Bustamante ∏ www.CommunityLinkFresno.com ∏ BAKERSFIELD Women's Group Game Night ENCORE! We had so much fun at the last game night, we are having another! If you have a game suitable for a large group, bring it! Once everyone gets there, we'll pick a game or two and have at. We'll hang out and relax after a long week, and we usually laugh a lot. Newbies always welcome! If you would like to bring munchies to share, that's always a plus! MCC has sodas and water available for a 75 cent donation. There is no charge for this event. This event is open to all those who self-identify as women. Friday, April 15th at 7pm at MCC Building, 3815 River Blvd. meetup.com/Bakersfield-LGBTQ/ Men OUT Spoken Dinner Hey men, where did we go? With all the craziness happening the past month, let's go OUT to dinner! Logan's Roadhouse is the place to be this evening! We will grab a table, eat, and enjoy the nice evening! Come join us for good conversation, and a relaxing time before you head OUT for the evening. If you have any questions, please email MenOUTspoken@gmail.com, and we will get back to you as soon as possible or contact me (Dustin Peterson-Marquez) via Facebook. We appreciate Logan's Roadhouse for supporting our community activities. Please patronize their stores! Men OUTSpoken is for those who self-identify as male. This event is dutch treat. Friday, April 15th at 7pm at Logan's Roadhouse, 3310 California Ave. meetup.com/Bakersfield-LGBTQ/ 8th Annual Tax Day Protest for Equality Why: It is the right thing to do to stand up for what we believe. April 18 is Tax Day, the deadline to mail your income taxes. LGBTQ people pay taxes, but we are denied basic rights! We say, "Same Taxes, Same Rights!" Marriage, military, employment... these are but a few areas where LGBTQ Americans face discrimination every day, and it must stop! Let's continue to show our community that Bakersfield residents will not be silent about this ongoing maltreatment. Meet us across from the main post office on Pegasus for our annual protest. We have signs, or you can bring your own. We will alert the media. We continue to be a visible force for equality in Bakersfield. If you have a Rainbow Flag, bring it! The event will begin at 5pm to make the most of media presence, but you can show up anytime until 6:30. Also, it can be a chilly evening, so bring a sweatshirt or jacket! This event is kid-friendly! All are welcome, no age requirement! Bakersfield LGBTQ is committed to non-violent forms of protest. We welcome those of like mind. Monday, April 18th at 5pm at US Post Office, Main Branch, 3400 Pegasus Dr. We're meeting outside, across the street. meetup.com/Bakersfield-LGBTQ/ The Shadow Box The Empty Space is proud to present Michael Cristofer's “The Shadow Box”, directed by Eric Tolley on Fridays and Saturdays through April 23 at 8pm. This Pulitzer Prize-winning drama concerning love, life and loss is set in three cottages in the woods, on the grounds of a large hospital. Here, we learn the stories of three families as they try to face and make sense of death. The first family we meet is the most conventional. Joe (Aaron Hicks), a working class husband and father, is joined at the cottage by his wife Maggie (Jessica Delcid), who, in denial of Joe's impending death is afraid to enter the cottage. Their teenage son, Stephen (Mike Bedard), has yet to be told of his father's terminal condition. The second family consists of Brian (Matthew Borton), who is brutally forthright about his demise; Mark (Justin Brooks), his doting lover; and Beverly (Michelle Guerrero), Brian's wild ex-wife who comes to visit them. The third family is a feisty, blind, and wheelchairbound mother, Felicity (Barbara Gagnon), and her dutiful daughter, Agnes (Sundee Oberlies Martineau). An off-stage character, "the interviewer" (Jared Cantrell), pops in and out of the scenes, offering insight into the various characters through questioning. Admission to the Friday and Saturday 8pm shows is free, although donations are accepted and appreciated. The doors open at 7:30pm. At the Empty Space, 706 Oak St. www.esonline.org Ricky's Retreat Loan Repayment We're working on it! Our generous benefactors loaned us $45,000 to Rescue Ricky's Retreat in 2008-09. We are well on our way to repaying this generous loan. The remaining Ricky's Retreat loan balance due as of February 18th is $39,096.72. You can help! Donate to Bakersfield AIDS Project today, and designate your donation to Ricky's Retreat Loan payment. Check back often and see our progress. Thank you for helping us make this Home a reality for Kern County persons living with AIDS. Ricky's Retreat is: Hospice for local persons with AIDS to have a safe and loving environment to pass with grace and dignity; Transitional Home for local persons living with AIDS to get back on their feet while searching for permanent housing; Resource Center fielding calls regarding HIV testing, and to request a myriad of AIDS related information, services, and for booking speaking engagements. For more information, or to Sponsor a month at $569.70 in honor of, memory of, or just because, call Audrey Chavez at 661-742-3611. www.bakersfieldproject.org Relay For Life It's time for the Bakersfield Relay for Life. Bakersfield LGBTQ will be sponsoring a team for the 7th year. If you are interested in joining the team or would like to make a donation please follow the link below. The Bakersfield Relay for Life is put on by the American Cancer Society to raise funds for research and education. If you are a survivor please make sure to put that on your participant registration. There is a special lap at the beginning of the ceremony to celebrate all cancer survivors. If you follow the link, you will also find where you can purchase luminaria. They line the track with names of those we have loved and lost to cancer and those that we still have with us. As the sun goes down, lights are placed inside. It's really a beautiful ceremony. I highly recommended contributing to them. I hope to see many of you there. This is a great opportunity for us to support our community. Psychotherapy Adult, Adolescent, Couples Melissa A. Cuneo, L.C.S.W. #LCS13570 ∏ NewsLink (559) 901-5461 16 1416 W Center St Visalia, CA 93291 Find our team at: main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayFor Life/RFLFY11CA?team_id=885391 &pg=team&fr_id=31062 Saturday, April 30th, starting at 9am. The location is also changing to 11800 Old River Rd. We look forward to seeing you there! meetup.com/Bakersfield-LGBTQ/ Buy Art, Help Ricky's Retreat The Empty Space's April artist Mike Neiman has pledged that if the art piece,“Castle Discordia”, sells during the month of April, he will donate half of his commission to help with everyday supplies at Ricky's Retreat. His April exhibit, Digital Shadows is a look into the world of the digital art, where traditional and surrealistic art meets new technology in the world of the digital medium. On Saturday, April 30th from 2pm-5pm there will be a closing reception. Admission is free. Light refreshments will be served and you will have the opportunity to meet and speak with the artist. All items will be cash and carry. The Empty Space is located at 706 Oak St., call (661) 327 -PLAY for info www.esonline.org HANFORD Hanford Rainbow Pride Dining Out Hanford Rainbow Pride is going to be dining out and would like you to come and dine with us. They offer: All you can eat salad bar,as well as a good variety of food off the menu to choose from. Dessert is also available. Prices are affordable, so don't miss out! Please make sure you RSVP via the website if you are going so we can let the Sizzlers know how many tables to save for our group. Saturday, April 16th, 6pm at Sizzler, 402 N. 11th Ave. facebook.com/hanfordrainbow LEMOORE Gay Sailor Wins Review, Transfer To San Diego NAS by Jim Reeves, QueerLandia.com The three member administrative separation board considering the case of Petty Officer 2nd Class Derek Morado's possible violations of the Don't Ask Don't Tell regulations has decided, unanimously, to retain him, and to not forward the discharge proceedings to the next level. As reported here earlier, Morado, 26, has been under the cloud of a DADT discharge since 2009, when a Modesto Pride Fundraisers Modesto Pride has announced that the 2011 Pride Festival will be held September 17th at Graceada Park. We will be having many events throughout the year. Check back often to see what's happening! April 17th, 5pm - 10pm Celebrity Bartender at the Tiki Lounge, 932 McHenry Ave. May 1st - Mother's Day Dinner. Get your tickets for our Mother's Day Special to help assure we have the best Pride Festival possible this year! Tickets are available from any committee member and at the Tiki Cocktail Lounge, 932 McHenry Ave. Buy one for $12 or two for $20! How the Mother's Day Special works: Tickets must be pre-purchased by April 25. No tickets will be for sale after April 25, or on the day of the event. Present your ticket at the Tiki Cocktail Lounge on Sunday, May 1 between 5-7pm. You will receive one complete dinner, including a beverage, per ticket. Lost tickets cannot be replaced. May 13th, 7am - 4pm Pride Festival Garage Sale at 409 High St. www.modestopride.org Panda Express Fundraiser for PFLAG For the folks with black thumbs, and those with no space to plant flowers purchased from our Flower Power Spring Fund Drive, we've got another way you can help us raise much-needed funds for PFLAG Modesto. All you need is a few dollars, and a mouth to enjoy Chinese food! On Tuesday, April 19th, from 11am to 2pm and then again from 5-9pm, the Panda Express on Briggsmore and Orangeburg (ONLY!) will be hosting OESCI Events The Owl Empire of Stanislaus County, Inc., based in Modesto, CA is a nonprofit 501c[4] Public Benefit Corporation. A volunteer organization dedicated to charitable fund-raising to meet the needs of all mankind in our communities. Celebrating our 44th year, the OESCI, is the 2nd oldest court in the International Court System, founded in 1967. Our upcoming events include: April 26th, 6pm Bingo at the Brave Bull, 701 S. 9th St. ,$20. May 8th, 5pm A Tribute To Mothers at the Brave Bull, $10. May 12th, 7pm Bingo at the Tiki Lounge, 932 McHenry Ave., $20 May 24th, 6pm Bingo at the Brave Bull, 701 S. 9th St., $20. groups.yahoo.com/group/modesto_ imperial/ Friday, April 29th at 8pm at Charity Way Ballroom, 645 Charity Way. Purchase your 2011 Rainbow Prom tickets ($10) via PayPal on www.pflagmodesto.org. Tickets will be held at will call, at the door. Tickets may ONLY be purchased by a high school student, and the purchaser will be required to present a VALID high school ID in order to pick up the tickets. No one over 21 years of age will be admitted into the Rainbow Prom, no exceptions! UUFSC Spring Auction Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Stanislaus County has an auction every Spring. Members donate goods or services and other members buy them. It started out as a "Dessert and Talent Auction", with people paying $35 for one of Mary Johnson's homemade lemon pies. It has grown. We now raise $12,000 to $16,000 per year, thanks to an impressive array of talents among our members, a generous membership, and healthy appetites. Many of the items offered these days are gourmet meals for 8, which go for $40 to $80 per person. This year the theme is "Bourbon Street, new Orleans". The last day to buy tickets is Sunday, May 1, 2011. We need a head count for the caterer. Schedule: 5:30 - 6pm No host Happy Half-Hour, 6 - 7pm Catered Dinner, 7pm Auction. Tickets: Adults and Teens - $20.00 each, Children under 13 - $5.00 each, Vegetarian - $20.00 each. We are a liberal church and the only UU congregation in Stanislaus county. We welcome Agnostics, Atheists, Buddhists, Christians, Deists, Freethinkers, Humanists, Jews, Pagans, Theists, Wiccans, and those who seek their own spiritual path. We welcome people without regard to race, physical ability, ethnicity or sexual orientation. Saturday, May 7th at UUFSC, 2172 Kiernan Ave., (209) 545-1837. www.stanuu.org The Big Show! Featuring live music from: Uni and Her Ukelele, Nadine the Band, Lovecore featuring Irene Carrillo, and Moon Trent! Uni, the neo-vintage pop chanteuse/raconteur gathered up kickpants, a rockhawk and magical ruby slippers for the first time in 2004 and her 20's punk movement has been gathering strength ever since. www.unimusic.us Nadine the Band from Atwater “like putting on high energy rock shows, and long walks on the beach.” www.myspace.com/nadinetheband Lovecore is Irene Carrillo of Modesto. When she plays her beautiful acoustic songs and poems solo on guitar, she calls herself “Lovecore”. Irene was also lead singer for a great Central Valley band called The Femmebotz (who played at Stanislaus Pride and local gay bars). Moon Trent is a Merced-based singer and songwriter with a couple of CDs under his belt. You may have seen him at Stanislaus Pride, he was also nominated for Modesto Area Music Awards. www.myspace.com/moontrent Thursday, May 19th at 6pm at Fat Cat Lounge, 930 11th St. www.fatcatmoesto.com www.CommunityLinkFresno.com MODESTO us for a special fundraiser. Print up the flyer from our website and head to that Panda location (only the Briggsmore / Orangeburg location!) for lunch or dinner. Order, enjoy, and 20% of your order will be given back to PFLAG Modesto! We encourage everyone to participate in this fundraiser. PFLAG Modesto needs this help to continue to provide the services we offer in Stanislaus County. In addition to the April 9th STOP BULLIES NOW! community roundtable and the allarea GSA Rainbow Prom on April 29th, we're in the planning stages for a much larger community event in October to combat schoolyard bullying, making sure there are “Safe Schools” kits on every campus, antibullying message posters county-wide - the list of things we need funds for seems endless. So print a flyer (we won't get credit without it), head to the Panda Express location, place a big order. For added fun, bring your dinner to PFLAG Bingo, and we'll all eat together! PFLAG Modesto appreciates your help in making all of our fundraisers a success! The social meeting and bingo is at 7pm at Emanuel Lutheran Church, 324 College Ave. www.pflagmodesto.org/images/Pa ndaFundraiser_2_.pdf ∏ 2011 Rainbow Prom Oakdale High School Gay-Straight Alliance presents the 2011 Rainbow Prom. Lesbian. Gay. Bisexual. Transgender. Questioning. Straight. EVERYONE is welcome to this prom! Except haters - stay home! The theme is “Masquerade”. Tuesday - Friday: 7:00 to 11:30 a.m. 1:30 to 6:00 p.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. NewsLink picture of him at a Gay Pride parade was posted on his MySpace page. Morado was anonymously outed to the Navy after the picture of him being kissed on the cheek at the parade was reported to Naval authorities. When the picture was brought to the attention of his commanding officer, he was accused of “admittance of homosexual conduct. With this ruling, Morado's case will not be forwarded to the Navy Secretary for further action. During this hearing, Morado has been stationed at Lemoore Naval Air Station, in California's Central Valley, south of Fresno. At his request, Morado is being transferred to the Naval Air Station San Diego. 17 ∏ www.CommunityLinkFresno.com ∏ STOCKTON At Paradise Nightclub Sunday, April 17 at 8pm Fundraiser: The Fight Against Cancer! Come show your support with a game of Beer Pong! Paradise will donate $5 of your Beer Pong fee ($10) to The Fight Against CANCER! Don't like beer?... Buy a Vodka RedBull for $5 and Paradise will donate $2.50 for each one!! Come one, come all, let's have a ball! 100% of money raised will be donated to American Cancer Society's fight against cancer. If you can't make it to the event, but would like to make a donation, log onto www.relayforlife.org/mantecaca. The team who is involved with this event is "Jogging for Jugs". Saturday, April 23 at 8pm - our famous White Party! $10 cover. $1 shots, giveaways, door prizes, drink specials and more! At Paradise Night Club, 10114 Lower Sacramento Rd. www.paradisenightclub.net Delta Pride Accepts RTV's Bowling Challenge! by Michael Du Pont The RTV club on [Delta College's] campus has issued Delta Pride a bowling challenge and at the 3-22 Meeting, the challenge was accepted! The time and location is being talked about as we speak, and the tentative date for the event is April 21st. This bowling challenge is to help promote both clubs, and it will also help promote Delta College's radio station. The radio station is very productive and has grown tremendously into something big on campus with actual filming, recording, and event broadcasting! Delta Pride has also made strides with its club including doing over 60 mock marriages, supported equal rights, and is currently working with the campus to implement a Pride Center and a Safe Zone. The bowling challenge may also serve as a new direction for the future of club networking and doing events together. Other clubs should learn from this pairing as an example of what clubs can collectively accomplish. This is a great example of club spirit and of two clubs getting along and competing in a friendly game of bowling. Check for updates on http://sjdcdeltapride.jigsy.com AIDS Walk Flea Market ∏ NewsLink The AIDS Walk San Joaquin is again partnering with Woodbridge Winery for the 2nd Annual Spring Flea Market & Yard Sale on Saturday, April 23rd at the Winery Visitors Center, 5950 E. Woodbridge Road, Acampo, CA 95220. This year, we 18 will be having free chair massages provided by the students from Carrington College. If you are interested in having a booth to sell your wares, the fee is only $20 and the application can be downloaded from the Woodbridge Winery website, www.woodbrigewines.com or we can email one to you, contact webmaster@awsj.org. 17th Annual AIDS Walk San Joaquin Is Here! by Daniel Corona The sun is finally out, hope nobody was flooded out of their home. We do apologize for our website and email being out of commission for a week or so. But, both of them are up and running now. Our website, www.awsj.org, has a new look, thanks to Joshua Schipper and Schipper Design for doing that for us. There may be a few kinks to work out so check it out and let us know. The Walk is only a month away. The Walk will be at San Joaquin Delta College on Saturday May 14, 2011. We will be right on Pacific Avenue near the front of Delta College. Event Schedule: 8am Registration and health fair open; 9:45am Warmup; 10am Welcome and announcements (Health fair closed); Introductions of guests and Grand Marshal; 10:30am Launch of Walk; 12pm Lunch and health fair re-opens. Don't forget that you can pre-register from our website or at www.active.com and start collecting donations right away. If you registered there last year, all of your information is saved and it will create a new fundraising page for you. Looking forward to seeing you there! Valley Ministries MCC Celebrated 12 Years This special event spanned two days, Saturday April 2nd and Sunday April 3rd. There was a special dinner held at Valley Ministries on Saturday, and a special service at the UoP chapel on Sunday. April 2: Rev. Elder Troy Perry, the founder of the MCC denomination, was our guest at the UoP Janet Leigh Theater for a special event called OK to be Gay and Christian. We watched his movie Call Me Troy and had a Q&A session after the movie. Then, we met at church for our anniversary dinner and awards ceremony at Valley Ministries. Dinner was provided and we had an awards ceremony to thank those who make Valley Ministries so special. We were also honored with the presence of Rev Troy who gave a brief speech to the congregation. April 3: We joined together for a special 10:30 am service at the UoP chapel with Rev Troy Perry. All mem- bers and friends of Valley Ministries were encouraged to attend this very special opportunity to hear from the founder of our denomination. Rev Terry read to us from the Scripture, then Rev Troy graced us with an amazing message. After Rev Troy delivered his awesome sermon, our very own Sharon Henry, joined by the wonderful Sound Alive praise team, gave us an incredible performance of a song written specially for our Anniversary. Written by Sharon Henry, with music by Kellie Husted, the song is called "Sanctuary." You can view the videos at www.valleyministries.com (click on Events) VISALIA Skittles Time! by Brooke, gayvisalia.com Ahh, the opening day of baseball. Some probably enjoyed today better than others, Dodger fans, HOLLA! As baseball season gets underway I wanted to let you know, so does softball! Your Gay Visalia Skittles are kicking off their 3rd season next week. We will once again don our colorful gay apparel, dust off our gloves and take to the field. The Skittles Spring 2011 players are: Brooke, Bree, Shannon, Stacy, Brittney, Cammy, Erinne, Nick, Eric, Robert, Johnny and Austin. We are Visalia's only LGBTQA softball team.....and we're pretty good, too! Did I mention we also have the greatest fans ever!? Join them! Come out and watch us play every Friday night from April 8th - June 10th. The game times and locations are below and can also be found on our community calendar. Season Schedule: April 15 8:20 Jefferson Park, April 22 6:00 Jefferson Park, April 29 6:00 Plaza Park #2, May 6 6:00 Plaza Park #2, May 13 9:30 Plaza Park #2, May 20 9:30 Plaza Park #2, May 27 6:00 Plaza Park #2, June 3 6:00 Plaza Park #2, June 10 7:10 Jefferson Park. Let's play ball! “You Should Meet My Son” PFLAG Tulare and Kings Counties is a volunteer group of parents, family and friends of people who are gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT). We welcome members of the GLBT community to our meetings and membership. We meet on the third Sunday of each month at Family HealthCare Network, 305 East Center St. Join us on Sunday, April 17, 2011 for a movie that will be released in June. We get to see it first, compliments of Keith Hartman who both wrote and directed......YOU SHOULD MEET MY SON! It is a comedy about a conservative Southern mom who discovers that her only son is gay. Determined that he won't go through life alone, she sets out to find him a husband. The length of the movie is 86 minutes. We will have our support groups followed by the film. There will be plenty of snacks for our movie time. www.pflag-tulare-kings.org/ TEDG Dine Out The tentative plans for this weekly LGBT+ dine out group (Tuesdays 6pm) are as follows: 4/19 Ryan's Place, 3101 South Mooney Blvd 4/26 Sue Z Q's BBQ, 2440 South Mooney Blvd 5/3 El Tarrasco 5/10 Cafe 225, 225 W Main St 5/17 Mimi's Cafe, 4004 S Mooney Blvd 5/24 potluck at a private residence 5/31 Firkin & Hound, 4023 S Mooney Blvd As always, there may be changes, so check www.tedg.info for updates Visalia Pride Lions Club President Sbei Leaving Visalia by Sandy, VPLC It was with regret that Club President, Michael “Sbei” Sbei announced that he will soon be leaving Visalia and moving to Las Vegas, Nevada. The move, which will put him close to his family, is a happy one but “bittersweet” he said as he is leaving the Visalia Pride Lions Club and his many friends in Tulare Co. President Sbei is a very special member of the Pride club because he started it all back in 2009. He had a vision of a Gay and Lesbian Lions Club here in Visalia and worked hard to make it happen. It took some time to start a new club. He had to coordinate with the local Lions Club District and gain support from another Visalia Lions Club (Charter Oaks) to help get the new one off the ground. He held several community meetings inviting potential members until within a few weeks we had the twenty members we needed to become approved. Because Sbei is leaving before the end of the year, William Vanlandingham “Van” will become the club's interim president. Elections are being held in April for the new officer posts (see article below). VPLC officers will begin their new duties on July 1. Under Sbei's leadership, the Visalia Pride Lions have had a very successful year and 6 months. Programs like the GSA High School Library Project began in 2010. The club began donating new LGBT books to 5 local GSA clubs and the COS Pride Club. The Valentines Dinner Dance brought together almost 200 folks from around the Valley and raised over $2500 for the community projects fund. The club sponsored a meet and greet for the Trevor Project, introducing Trevor Staff to county educators and health professionals and attended events like the Family Fest in the park and helped to sponsor the Fresno Lavender Prom last summer. When asked what his favorite accomplishment was, Sbei 21 An Ally in our Schools? by Brooke, gayvisalia.com That's right Visalia; it looks like we finally have an ally within our local schools. On Sunday, March 20th, at the monthly PFLAG meeting, Dr. Craig Wheaton joined us as the guest speaker. He is the Superintendent of Visalia Unified School District, the big guy. Simply the fact that he came was epic. It shows our community that he cares about us, too. That he's concerned about the issues affecting our LGBT youth and those of us LGBT parents with kids in school. Dr. Wheaton certainly got an ear full from us. Many situations and circumstances he was unaware of. For example, he didn't realize that only 2 of our 4 high schools have a GSA and only 1 of those GSA's is highly active (GWHS). Also, that The Trevor Project has only been allowed into ONE school here locally, just one (GWHS). He's been made aware of teens reaching out for help but not finding it. Local groups (PFLAG, Gay Visalia, etc.) are contacted but we find ourselves with our hands tied. Or when we do try to “fix” situations, calls are not returned nor are questions answered. This break in the system doesn't do us any good when trying to help and it certainly does not benefit our youth who desperately need to feel the support of their community. Sunday was not a cure all. We only touched the surface of problems we face. It was, I feel, a very important and monumental first step. It was a person listening to problems who actually has the power to make some changes. A person who actually cared enough to stand in front of the firing squad and be held accountable. So although things will not change overnight, it at least appears we are finally headed in the right direction. Dr. Wheaton is a fine captain but it will still take all of us to man the ship and arrive at our destination….. Safe schools, respect and inclusiveness for everyone. If you would like more information on what was discussed, please feel free to contact me. If you have issues you would like brought to the school districts attention, you may contact the superintendent himself. You can also let me know of any situations, problems or concerns as I am compiling an email he is expecting. In closing, I would like to thank all of those fearless attendees who stood up for our community and our youth this weekend. For those who asked the tough questions, demanded answers and solutions. Lastly, thank you PFLAG who made it all possible. Together, we really WILL make a difference! www.CommunityLinkFresno.com We had two Lions Club visit us last night [at the April 4th meeting], The Charter Oaks Lions, and the Sequoia Lions. We, also, had two guest and we had two new members sign-up. WOW! What a great way to end my last meeting, and we had cake, too. THANK YOU, for all the well wishes and hugs. I will truly miss you and this great club. Now, down to business, we have a new board of officers, and here they are. Visalia Pride Lions Club 20112012 Board of Officers (July 1, 2011June, 30, 2012): President: Lion Mona Smith; 1st Vice President: Lion William "Van" VanLandingham; 2nd Vice President: Lion Jennifer McGuire; Secretary: Lion Sandy O'Neill Waymack, retained; Treasurer: Lion Leslie "Deno" Steffen, retained; 1yr Director: Lion Cheryl Waymack, retained; 2yr Director: Lion Pat Urruty, 2yr Membership Chair; Greeters: Lion James "Jim" Kirby, Incumbent, Lion Justin Pursley; Lion Tamer: Lion Donald "Don" Costa; Tail Twister: Lion Kim Hruby; Past President: Lion Sbei. Congratulations to our newly elected officers! Upcoming VPLC Events Friday April 22. Pride Lions in the Park for Earth Day. We will plant a special tree in Lions Park and have a picnic. Bring your lunch and a beach chair at 11am. Meet us at the pavilion. Lions Park is on Ferguson in Visalia. Saturday, May 7. Pride Lions Garage Sale at Jennifer's house. Save your gently used items for this event. We are raising money for the administrative account. www.visaliapridelionclub.org NewsLink said that “they are like the grandchild you have an your knee at that moment. They were all important and they were all my favorite. What I am most proud of is how we have grown as a club. To get out into the larger community and say, we are proud of who we are! To be visual. It can be a hard thing for some to do….and we did it.” Will he start a new LGBT Lions club in Vegas? “Definitely”, he answered. Sbei will be greatly missed and the Visalia Pride Lions will continue growing. New Board of Officers by Sbei, VPLC 19 ∏ ∏ ∏ www.CommunityLinkFresno.com Two Wings 4/15 - 17 in San Francisco Int'l Ms Leather & Ms Bootblack Weekend 4/15 - 4/17 in San Francisco International Ms Leather, “the world's largest event for leather women and everyone who loves them””, celebrates its 25th anniversary! Saying it is a leather event simply does not do justice to the extraordinary extravaganza of head-to-head competitions surrounded by steamy live stage shows, hospitality receptions, educational classes, play spaces, vendor market and 700+ leather folk cruisin' and schmoozin'! And it has been going on for years and years! 2 Incredible Contests: International Ms Leather & International Ms Bootblack! - Fabulous Shows including the always popular Seduction - an evening of burlesque, strip tease, lap dancing, drag and MORE... all in the name of charity! - Bootblack Salon and Leathercare Lounge! - Charity Silent Auction! - Education - 15+ world-class presenters share their knowledge - More than 20 vendors from all over the country! - Hospitality Receptions - an unending stream of receptions throughout the weekend including the ever-popular Uniform Party - Leather history being made at the longest running, most recognized women leather's title in the world! - Onsite play space filled with equipment and open 24 hours a day from Thursday evening through Midnight Sunday! - Speed Tricking; Butch-Boi.com's Slumber Play Party; Charity Celebrity Auction; Uniform Party; Alumni Party; Outgoing Titleholder Roast; Boots and Cigars Party; Wind Down Party; AfterGlow Party! Tickets available for each day, certain events (Contest Only, Brunch, etc.) or in packages. Visit website for detailed pricing. The host hotel is Holiday Inn Golden Gateway, 1500 Van Ness Ave. www.imsl.org Two Wings - A shared evening of dance with Purple Moon Dance Project / Jill Togawa and Liz Boubion. Liz Boubion presents “Maclovia's Birds” inspirados por el arte de mi abuelita. Maclovia's Birds is a multimedia dance-theater production, based off the drawings and writing of Boubion's Mexican grandmother Maclovia Lujan Duran Boubion (1895-1984) who immigrated to Los Angeles, California where she raised 10 children. For her final MFA performance from the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS), Liz explores her lineage and the roll of the arts in the face of oppression and trauma. With the power of song and the language of movement, the artists integrate the nature of birds as a symbol for freedom on a metaphorical tension wire. Dancers: Liz Boubion, Maryann Brook, Dominique Nigro, Katherine Orloff, Gina Shorten. Musicians: Karla Avila, Renee Benmeleh, T-Bird Luv, Evelie Delfino Sales Posche. Video projection: Meghan Ballog. More info: www.lizboubion.org. In celebration of its 20th Year, Purple Moon Dance Project / Artistic Director, Jill Togawa presents the first chapter of "The Unforgettable Secret Rhythms of Joy" (a tale for all ages). Performers: Michelle Fletcher, Freesia Paclebar-Huth, Laura Inserra, Ruth Ichinaga, T-Bird Luv, Nanda Paba Mihindukulasuriya, Sarah Pomarico, Sharon Sato. Lighting design: Stephanie Johnson. More info: www.purplemoondance.org Tickets: $15 advance, $20 door. Friday & Saturday at 7:30pm, Sunday at 6pm at Dance Mission Theater, 3316 24th St. www.dancemission.com An Evening With Women 4/16 in Beverly Hills For the third year, Singer/Songwriter/Producer Linda Perry is partnering once again with the Center to present “An Evening with Women: Celebrating Art, Music & Equality”. An unforgettable and elegant celebration, this year's event will feature performances by headliner Cyndi Lauper (Memphis Blues), singer/songwriter Cat Power (The Greatest) and musician/actress Juliette Lewis (Conviction), as well as comedy by Sarah Silverman (The Sarah Silverman Program). The star-studded evening includes dinner, a fabulous show and a large silent auction featuring incredible travel and entertainment packages and much more. Guests must be 21 or over, cocktail chic dress code. Tickets start at $100. The event raises muchneeded funds for the women-specific services of the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center. At the Beverly Hilton Hotel, 9876 Wilshire Blvd. www.lagaycenter.org WOW of Long Beach various in Long Beach area Women on Wednesdays (or “Wonderful Outstanding Women”) meet every Wednesday at a private residence in Long Beach. In addition, they hold other events, such as the ones listed below: 4/16 - 11am. Walk on the beach at Seal Beach pier (meet on Main and Ocean at Cold Stone ice cream parlor) and end up at River's End to eat lunch out. Pay for own lunch. Must RSVP. 4/24 - Easter sit down dinner with Easter egg hunt with prizes. $10 per person. 4/30 - Drive to the French Quarters in West Hollywood for dinner, then a shopping trip to the Pleasure Chest. 5/7 - 2pm-4pm. Cooking class with Karen of Savor/Flavor Dining. Tasters treats. Limited to 25 women. RSVP now. Free! www.meetup.com/WOW-LESBIANS-OF-LONG-BEACH/ Fundraisers for the SF Dyke March various dates in SF area The San Francisco Dyke March needs to raise nearly $25,000 to put on this year's event. You can help out by making a donation or attending one or more of these events: 4/16 - Shame Spiral, 9pm-3am at Public Works, 161 Erie St., San Francisco. Entry is $5.00 before 10:30pm, $10.00 after. DJ Andre making you dance till you're dead. Righteously amazing party for lezzies, lesbros and that straight girl you wanna make out with. Everybody get down! www.publicsf.com 4/16 - Social - Dyke March Fundraiser, 9pm-2am at the Oasis Restaurant & Bar, 135 12th St., Oakland. Entry is $7.00-$10.00, sliding scale, no one turned away for lack of funds. www.facebook.com/#!/TheOasisResta urant 4/30 - Save the Dyke March Benefit, 3pm-8pm at El Rio, 3158 Mission St., San Francisco. 100% of proceeds go to the march! NewsLink What my ad could have been here for only $10 Call 559-486-3464 for details 20 Counseling Associates Cynthia Callaghan LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER 3204 N. Van Ness Blvd 559-222-ROSE Fax 559-222-7693 3134 Willow, Suite # 103 Clovis, CA 93612 Cell: 559/930-9327 E-mail: cclcsw@sbcglobal.net www.elriosf.com 5/7 - Ships in the Night, 9pm-2am at the Oasis Restaurant & Bar. Entry is $5.00, sliding scale. Ships In The Night is a queer, sweaty dance party. Find us on Facebook! 5/14 - Cockblock, 10pm-2am at the Rickshaw Stop, 155 Fell St., San Francisco. SF's most homolicious dance party! www.cockblocksf.com 5/26 - Flourish, at Public Works. www.facebook.com/flourish.sf www.thedykemarch.org U*NI*TY Anniversary 4/17 in San Diego In2U Events is celebrating their two-year anniversary with a party at Eden! For two years, the in2U crew has been throwing hot monthly dance parties around town, starting at The Flame, then moving over and settling into the AC Lounge. Creators Heidi Kinney and DJ dirty Kurty, with promoters Kalli Boyne and Co. have been a welcomed addition to the San Diego club scene and to celebrate 730 days of operation, the girls of U*NI*TY are throwing a Sunday night soiree at Eden night club. Here are all the details you need to know to get your groove on. Support them as they blow out the candles on another year. On the turntables: DJ Dida and DJ dirty Kurty. Entertainment: XBOX Dance Off Contest (win an XBOX 360 Kinect!), Fashion Show by House Boi (with a special ZOOLander walk off), FREE Gift Bag to the first 50 people in the door, everyone in the club gets a FREE Raffle ticket (purchase more to win prizes)! Proceeds from the Raffle go to Ssubi Hut (www.Ssubihut.com). Tickets: $10 advance, $15 at the door. 8pm - midnight at Eden, 1202 University Ave. www.in2uevents.com ArtGasm 4/19 - 4/30 in San Francisco ArtGasm is a series of exhibits, live art making, performance art, and multi media art installations presented by Femina Potens on a quarterly basis. Between April 17th and April 30th Femina Potens will be presenting exhibits & groundbreaking performance art focused around Birth, Conception, the Womb, & Motherhood. Exhibits for our April ArtGasm include Sadie Lune's Biological Clock, An ongoing piece about time and fertility, which will peak in a queer fertility insemination ALL BREED PET SITTING Quality Pet Care in Your Home Caring For Your Pets Since 1988 Pet Care • Feeding • Exercising • Medication Gail Gaston Bus. 275-5092 Res. 325-0540 Home Care • Plant Care • Mail Pick-up • Light Changes Bonded Insured Bitch in Concert 4/21 in Las Vegas Join Cindi and Betty's Out for a wild and crazy night of Bitch music! You loved her in “Bitch and Animal”, you saw her in “Shortbus”, and you've heard her on The L Word. The one and only electric-violin playing, ukuleletoting, bass-slapping, keyboard tickling, Bitch is a music box all of her own, continually pushing the envelope with her wild-spirited avant-garde “theatrical punk” sound not to mention her, shall we say unique, costume styling. Tickets are only $10 at the door. 6:45pm at Don't Tell Mama, 517 Fremont St. www.bettysout.com HipChicksOut Weekend 4/21 - 4/24 in San Diego Ready for winter to end with the warm sun on your skin, outdoor cocktail parties, a little speakeasy in your life, playful splashing in the pool, a little sand between your toes, show off your athletic prowess and saltwater in the air? Then make sure you reserve your space with HIpChicksOut in San Diego so that you don't miss out on the hippest weekend escape of the year. Bring your girlfriend or gather up a group of your friends; all are welcome to join in the fun. - Four Days/Three Nights at the beautiful W Hotel San Diego - Welcome Cocktail Voucher at Check In to get your weekend off to a great start - Optional Surfing Lessons with Surf Divas - HipChicksOut Cocktail Party with Yard Concert Fundraiser 4/22 in San Francisco Cindy Buck's Yard Concert with special guests featuring Audrey Howard, Laura Zucker, Shelley Doty, True Margrit, Groovy Judy, and Sistas in the Pit! Audrey Howard: Melodic indierock, edgy alt-country, punk-pop, singer-songwriter: all these and more can describe Audrey Howard's music. Her guitar playing is inspired by her heroes Jack White and Jimmy Page. On stage, Audrey can evoke the tortured passion of PJ Harvey, or the sass of Chrissy Hynde, or the smooth wit of Suzanne Vega. Laura Zucker: Settled in Lafayette, California in 2004 and joined the West Coast Songwriters Association. Her first CD “Left Foot Forward” was released in the spring of 2006. In April of 2006, “The Confession” won the Second Grand Prize in the WCSA International Song Contest. The song "It Was You" won a Best Song of the North Bay from the West Coast Songwriters Association in 2007. Later in 2007, the WCSA again recognized her with a best song award for "I Can't Let Go." In 2007 and again in 2009, she was invited to play at the Kerrville Folk Festival, and awarded "New Folk Finalist" status both years. In 2008, she was a finalist in the Public Domain Foundation's "Music to Life" contest, with "Memorial Day," resulting in lots of airplay on XM radio. In 2008 she released her second CD, "A Step Ahead". Shelley Doty: Watching her perform is awe-inspiring due to her masterful guitar licks, soulful voice and charismatic stage presence. As a songwriter, she creates articulate songs for today by sprinkling them with respect for the music of her youth (rock, R&B, jazz, funk). Shelley sings with passion and plays with an authentic raw energy that cuts through the air with jubilant imagination and freshness. True Margrit: Alternative progressive piano art-pop. Based in San Francisco (when not on the road), the piano-driven trio True Margrit offers up a singular brand of hummably wistful angst, science, redemption, and whimsy. Groovy Judy: Puts a new face on the late 60's, early 70's sound that made the Bay Area what it is. From the songwriting influences of Sly and The Family Stone, Jimi Hendrix, to touches of the melodic Beatles sound, San Francisco's own brings forth her dominating style with the energy of some of today's most known artists. Groovy Judy focuses on making people smile and raising vibrations by delivering her own blend of funk/rock. Her stellar guitar playing, original lyrics, colorful dress, and upbeat personality, speak to all ages. Sistas In The Pit: Inspired by the eclectic likes of Jimi Hendrix, Aretha Franklin, Led Zeppelin, Tool, Prince, Tina Turner, Stevie Wonder, John Coltrane, Sarah Vaughn, Billie Holliday, Captain & Tennille, Salt-nPeppa, Pink Floyd and Nina Simone, Sistas in the Pit began collaborating on their persuasive rock and soul rhythms in 2003. Each member fearlessly writes, composes, co creates and sings the rich vocal harmonies and deeply rousing lyrics, linking rock 'n' roll back to the blues. From the Bay Area to Shanghai and Switzerland to Boston in just a little over 4 years, the Sistas have had the pleasure of sharing the stage, both nationally and internationally, with such notables as Macy Gray, Iggy Pop and the Stooges, Banyan's Stephen Perkins & Mike Watt's, The Butchies, Tribe 8, DOS, and Bad Brains. Suggested donation $20. 7pm at Dolores Park Café, 501 Dolores St. www.cindybuckpresents.com Average Dyke Band 4/22 in Santa Rosa 5/7 in Santa Cruz 4/22 - 8pm at Last Day Saloon, 120 5th St., Santa Rosa. Great club with big dance floor, seating, bar, restaurant, easy parking. Tickets $15. 5/7 - 4pm Tea Dance: A Benefit Dance For Pride. This is NOT your grandmother's Tea Dance! The SF Bay Area's hottest all-lesbian rock/R&B cover band will tear it up at the Your Ad could be seen here for $10 a month. Call 559-486-3464 for details Cypress Lounge. The hot and exciting ADB has played Gay Prides, Women's festivals, clubs all over the Bay Area and beyond! Tickets $15 in advance, $18 at the door. At Cypress Lounge, 120 Union St., Santa Cruz. www.averagedykeband.com Girls' Night Out Play Party 4/23 in San Diego Club X and Ms San Diego Leather 2010 Presents: Girls Night Out at Dungeon Servitus. No tickets sold on the day of the party. Prices are $10 for Club X Members, and $15 for nonClub X members. Limit is 30, so get your tickets before we're sold out! This event is limited to women only. Contact tiger at tigerboisd@yahoo.com for more information. The party is from 7pm to midnight. www.clubxsd.org www.CommunityLinkFresno.com First Drink and Appetizers - Comedy Show with Chantal Carrere - Kickball Tournament Fundraiser: HipChicksOut vs.the Women of San Diego “Unity” (proceeds go to Outdoor Outreach: they empower atrisk and underprivileged youth to make positive, lasting changes in their lives through comprehensive outdoor programming.) - Speakeasy Party with the Women of San Diego “FlawLes” Price: Single Occupancy: $789 per person, Double: $489 per person, Triple: $419 per person, Quad: $389 per person. Package does NOT include: getting to San Diego, meals or a boring time! www.hipchicksout.com ∏ Betty's Out 10th Anniv. 4/23 in Las Vegas Join us as we celebrate 10 fabulous Betty years with the entire Las Vegas LGBT community! We're throwing a Hawaiian Beach Party minus the ocean... with a Hawaiian band, Hawaiian food sales, souvenir photos, hourly tropical drink specials, hula & hula hoop contests for cash prizes, raffles and free giveaways plus a DJ for dancing into the night. There's a suggested donation of $5 at the door 6pm at Mango's, 6650 Vegas Dr. www.bettysout.com Speakeasy Casino Night 4/23 in San Diego The FlawLes Speakeasy is back for another year in a new venue. The Ivy's ultra-sleek and modern ballroom sets the stage and backdrop for this unique, underground night of complete prohibition. Surprises are in store, in true FlawLes fashion. Cost: FREE for FlawLes Event Pass Holders, $20 pre-sale price for nonpass holders, $25 at the door for nonpass holders. Entertainment: DJ dirtyKurty; Live Burlesque Dancers and a unique production that you'd expect from FlawLes Media & Events. All FlawLes guests will have club access into The Ultra Lounge and The Rooftop with their Speakeasy tickets. 9pm - 2am at the Andaz, 600 F St. 8pm - 9pm VIP Reception, sponsored by Barefoot Wines. www.flawles.com continued on page 22 NewsLink ritual performance at the gallery. Collaborators for this piece include Annie Sprinkle and Beth Stephens. Madison Young will be opening her exhibit of Becoming MILF, which addresses her journey through pregnancy and birth while continuing her work in the adult industry. Ms Young will be doing a live performance piece in the gallery in which she pumps breast milk and hands out breast milk ice cream to the gallery goers. Other exhibits include Sonya Genel's Womb Nostalgia, which addresses an inherent desire to return to the womb and pieces from Amelia D'Entrone's photography series After Birth, which explores the emotional and physical adjustments experienced during postpartum. At the Michelle O'Connor Gallery, 2111 Mission St. www.feminapotens.org 21 ∏ www.CommunityLinkFresno.com ∏ continued from page 21 Salon Amour 4/24 in Oakland Ready for romantic connections? Not sure but want to get your feet wet? Tired of just online dating? Bar and dancing scene too overwhelming? This casual, safe, and respectful speed dating event may be for you. I will do my very best to connect all the participants with each other in a way that you can get to know them as much as possible within the short time. I will be using some life coaching, facilitating and group coordination skills to run this event in a fun and easy way. Ice Breaking Games & Exercises; Conscious Speed Dating in with Roke Noir; Wine, Beer and Other Beverages available at the café; Matches (Romantic Love and/or Friendship) sent within 72 hours. Cost : $18. 6 - 9pm at World Ground Café, 3726 MacArthur Blvd. www.facebook.com/event.php?eid =182929021751289 Swing Into Spring 4/30 in Palm Springs Swing into Spring - A Party and Dance for Women! Come join your friends for a wonderful evening of dance with music provided by DJ Terri O'Brien and quiet tables for conversation in our beautiful "new" Belardo space. This event is open to women of all ages and offers something for everyone. Call the Center at (760) 416-7790 for more information. 7pm - 10pm at the Golden Rainbow Center, 610 S. Belardo, Suite 500. www.grcps.org ∏ NewsLink Lesbian Summer Camp 4/29 - 5/1 in Hollister Join us for the Fourth Annual Lesbian Summer Camp at Pinnacles National Monument. A fun weekend of woman, camping, hiking, playing in the swimming pool, and music by the campfire. Pinnacles National Monument consists of the spectacular remains of an ancient volcano that rises out of the chaparral-covered Gabilan Mountains. 22 Massive monoliths, spires, sheerwalled canyons and talus passages define millions of years of erosion, faulting and tectonic plate movement. Pinnacles is a release site for the endangered California condor. The condors may sometimes be seen from hiking trails throughout the park. This is a tent camping trip only. Cost: $45.00 per person. Reservations are required. This event has sold out every year. For more info or to reserve contact Jamyrson: jamyrson@hotmail.com ried each other countless times on the road to securing civil marriage for same-sex couples, provide insights, tools and practical steps to reach new levels of intimacy, understanding and vitality to ensure that we not only can legally marry, but live our happilyever-afters together. For more info about the presenters, please visit davinakotulski.com. Registration is $20 or $35/pair in advance, $25 or $45/pair at the door. 6-8pm at Good Vibes,1620 Polk St. www.goodvibes.com Single de Mayo 5/1 in Los Angeles E-Babes 5/6 in Oakland Part daytime dance club, part down-home backyard BBQ, Single De Mayo is L.A.'s biggest singles (and not just for singles) event for women. Join hundreds of eligible and attractive women at a private residence in Hancock Park for a fun & food, drinks & dancing, games (the fun kind, not the lesbian drama kind), a date auction and more! And… it's for charity! Single De Mayo is a fundraiser to benefit JQ International, an LA-based LGBT organization that conducts safe school training and provides emergency shelter and support to homeless LGBT youth in Los Angeles. Show off your flirtiest, sexiest, most daring dance moves to the sounds of DJ NOVA JADE! Date Auction MC Tracy Ryerson ("The Real L Word")! Your Hosts: Carrie Brandon, Andrea Stern, Shelby Ilan, Cathleen Cotter, K Chansky, Award-Winning DJ Nova Jade*, Janelle Eagle, Liz Grove, Maria Mendoza, Lia Halloran, Aviva Peria, Dawnita Moore, Nikki Levy, Shannon Branson, Tristan Silverman, Leela Navarro, Courtney Caron, Kelly Boesch, Fitz, Shannon Aikman, Meredith Baxter and Torri Shack. Tickets for purchase through the website. 1pm at 667 S. June St. www.singledemayo.com Join East Bay Lesbian TGIF for a night of fun with NCLR Board Chair Emily Doskow for a great cause. National Center for Lesbian Rights' supporters Denise Petty, Jennifer Jones, and Delene Bivolcic are throwing another wonderful party to benefit our legal and program services. Plus you can take in the views of beautiful Lake Merritt, meet some new friends and see old friends. If you are lucky, you might even get a date for NCLR's 34th Anniversary Celebration on May 21, 2011. Hope to see you there! Suggested donation: $10.00. 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Terrace Room, 1800 Madison St. www.nclrights.org Finding and Maintaining a Happily-Ever-After 5/3 in San Francisco “Finding…” is a relationship workshop for lesbian couples (in and out of the sheets). Great relationships and marriages are made, not born. But many of us find that after the honeymoon is over we don't know how to deal with disagreements or how to make our relationships better, let alone last. Davina and Molly, a lesbian couple, together for 14 years, have mar- Women's Fest 2011 5/7 in San Diego The San Diego LGBT Center presents “Women's Fest 2011: Do It Yourself (D.I.Y.)”. We will once again bring local women together for a daylong festival of workshops, entertainment and resources for lesbian, bisexual and transgender (LBT) women. This year's festival will focus on the D.I.Y movement, which empowers individuals to take matters into their own hands when it comes to artistic expression, home repairs, self-publication, community building, transportation and more. “D.I.Y. is more than a movement it's a way of thinking,” explains Women's Resource Center coordinator Abby Schwartz. “We want women to ask how they can better empower themselves in all aspects of their lives and nurture their health, creativity, careers and relationships. The D.I.Y. movement may be punk at heart, but it's something we can all relate to and learn from.” Last year's Women's Fest featured 15 workshops and over 30 womenfriendly vendors and community partners. 10 am to 5 pm at The Center, 3909 Centre St. www.thecentersd.org Guided Tour of Exhibit on Gertrude Stein 5/15 in San Francisco The Contemporary Jewish Museum has offered to host a guided tour of their upcoming exhibit on Gertrude Stein. This tour is FREE for anyone under the age of 18. Adult admission will be at a special discount rate of $9. This covers the guided tour at 11:30 and Artist Trading Card workshop from 1-3pm. We will have a “bring your own brown bag lunch” on Jessie Square from 12:15-1:00pm. To get the group price for admission and to attend the tour, pre-registration will be required. 10:30am at The Contemporary Jewish Museum, 736 Mission St. www.facebook.com/event.php?eid =205876962757720 Russian River Women's Weekend 5/19 - 22 in Guerneville Schedule of Events: Thursday: - VIP Pass pick-up and Country Dan's Lesbytarian Karaoke at McT's BullPen - Jennifer Lyson's Fires of Transformation Firewalk. Come firewalk with me, my friend, and become unstuck from the situations or feelings that hold you back. Allow the possibilities to flow into your life: Fires of Transformation is a firewalk for your life; this is your opportunity to ignite the possibilities that are waiting there for you; are you wanting to makes some changes but are too afraid to face them?; maybe your confidence level is not where you would like it to be. We will build the fire together then there will be a workshop while it burns down to embers. Then we will walk. This is an alcohol free event. No alcohol may be consumed prior to the firewalk. $75 for first-timers, $45 for repeat walkers. Friday: - RAGS Welcome Party at Rainbow Cattle Co. - blues legend & lesbian icon, Gwen Avery at Main St. Station. Gwen Avery is a vocalist with impressive pipes and an uncanny ear for the soulful language of 40's, 50's and 60's hipsters, swingsters and R&B songsters. - George Haggerty at Trio - Drag King Show and Dance Party at Buck's Saturday: - Women's Weekend Crafts Faire on the Bridge. $75 to sell your wares - download application on the website. Wanda Sykes 5/20 in Santa Rosa 5/21 in Long Beach StandOut Productions is proud to announce "An Evening with Wanda Sykes!" Wanda Sykes has been called "one of the funniest stand up comics" by her peers and ranks among Entertainment Weekly's 25 Funniest People in America. Don't miss Wanda's smart-witted stand up when she performs in Long Beach for one night only on Saturday, 5/21 - yes, that during Long Beach Pride Weekend! Now, that's something to celebrate! 8pm at Long Beach Terrace Theater, 300 E. Ocean Blvd. Tickets: $30 - Celebrating the Body Erotic 5/20 - 22 in Oakland "Celebrating the Body Erotic" is a workshop for women of all ages and sexual orientations, facilitated by Lizz Randall. In a sensuous playful space that respects boundaries, embrace pleasure and experience the body as powerful, expressive and sacred. The class expands awareness and sensation through a process of breath, movement and touch. Each woman's choices and rhythms are honored and celebrated. This workshop is for women of all sexual orientations and ages who are ready to learn about their own power to claim and enjoy sensuality and sexuality within a community of women. Questions to Consider - - Do you feel that you've lost touch with your sexual authority? - Do you want to reconnect with the fullness of your erotic self? - Do you want to focus on your own desires with support from others? Through a carefully crafted series of embodiment practices, you will have a chance to discover your true erotic nature. In a community of choice where you decide what you give and receive you will explore your body, your desires, your sexuality, the place where mind, body, and spirit connect. Tap into the broader erotic energy that is your life force. We all have a right to live fully in our bodies with trust and power and delight. It is our birthright. Are you ready to claim it? Through breath, movement, communication & touch: - Feel more alive, curious, and safe in your body - Give and receive without losing yourself Release fear, shame, and negative patterns - Communicate your desires and boundaries more clearly - Expand awareness, sensation, and pleasure Accept yourself as you are - Enjoy sex more - Have more fun! For more info, contact Amy: (415) 377-4107. Pricing available on the website: www.thebodyelectricschool.net/celebrateOAKw.php Mamma Mia! Sing Along 5/21 in La Crescenta Sing along with Meryl, Amanda, Pierce and a cast of thousands (on screen) and The Women of Vox! (in person) at Vox Femina's Mamma Mia! Sing Along. Pick your package, come and enjoy! Red Carpet: $50. Come at 5 PM and, in addition to the movie, you'll: enjoy a pre-movie spread of complimentary hors d'oeuvres and libations; mingle with Iris and the women of Vox; be the first to hear a preview of Women Gone Wild - and our 15th season; get prime outdoor seating for the movie. Paparazzi: $20. Come at 6:30 PM and: get your popcorn and soft drink (reasonably priced cash bar for beer and wine); claim your spot in the garden to watch the movie; party with your friends, the women of Vox and sing along! At a private garden in La Crescenta (Pasadena area). www.voxfeminala.org NCLR Anniv. Celebration 5/21 in San Francisco Join the National Center for Lesbian Rights as we celebrate 34 years of fighting for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender civil and human rights! The best LGBT event of the year for our entire family of supporters and friends, the Kates (Kendell and Clinton) will be there, as well as some special guests. There will be plenty of nosh, drinks, and dancing, along with 1,799 of your closest friends. Keynote Speaker: Kate Kendell, Esq., NCLR Executive Director. Emcee: Kate Clinton. Honorees: Voice & Visibility Award: First-ever openly LGBT country music star Chely Wright and her father, Stan Wright. Spirit Award: First-ever openly transgender Division I basketball player Kye Allums. Justice Award: Former Belmont University soccer coach Lisa Howe. Founders Award: NCLR founder and retired San Francisco Superior Court Judge Donna Hitchens. 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. - Anniversary Dinner at Marriott Marquis Hotel, 55 Fourth St. 8:00 p.m. - 12 a.m. Anniversary Party at Metreon Cityview, 101 Fourth St., 4th Floor. www.nclrights.org Queer Queens of Qomedy 5/21 in Santa Cruz We are rolling back into Santa Cruz this year on Saturday, May 21st. Julie Goldman will be making her Santa Cruz debut - she is the winner of the coveted MAC award in NYC for funniest female and she was the most funny character on LOGO's Big Gay Sketch Show, come see her in person. The other Comedy component is Fortune Feimster - new, hot, and appearing on Chelsea Lately. And of course yours truly, Poppy Champlin! Who is newly in love and moved back to the East Coast. Tell your friends and come hear all about that! Tickets $40 VIP Gold Circle, $20 General. $1 from every ticket sold will be donated to The Diversity Center of Santa Cruz. 8pm at Rio Theatre, 1205 Soquel Ave. www.riotheatre.com/event.html#r0 52111 Our Romance 5/21 & 22 in San Diego Join San Diego Women's Chorus on May 21 and 22 for “Our Romance” - a fun and emotional journey through the world of romance with its joys, sorrows, delights and yearnings. Song selections include: “Love Song,” by Sara Bareilles; “Come What May” from “Moulin Rouge”; “Everything,” by Michael Buble; “Cover Me” from “Rent”; and “Constant Craving,” by k.d. lang. SDWC will also sing “What About Love” from the musical “The Color Purple.” The song's lyrics capture the spirit of our 24th annual spring concert: “I want you to be a story for me that I can believe in forever.” Saturday at 7:00pm, Sunday at 3:00pm at Mission Hills United Church of Christ, 4070 Jackdaw St. www.sdwc.org www.CommunityLinkFresno.com $105. Also on Friday, 5/20 at 8pm at Wells Fargo Center for the Arts, 50 Mark West Springs Rd. in Santa Rosa, tickets $50 - $65. www.wandasykes.com ∏ Kate Clinton in Marin County 5/22 in San Rafael Spectrum LGBT Center Presents An Afternoon with Kate Clinton: The GLEE Party. Join Kate for her all new show in the 2011 Glee Party Tour. A celebration of her 30-year career. A rolling Restore-to-Sanity rally. Join the Glee Party! Problems are solved in less than an hour. Break into flash mobs of song and dance for no apparent reason. Kate preaches way beyond the choir. She is the original Nostra Dame. Get some PTSG - PostTraumatic Stress Glee. If the whole world's going down, we might as well be gleeful and gay. Tickets available only through Spectrum. Premium reserved seats: $85 per person / $340 table of four). These tickets include reserved seating in the first two rows, a pre-show reception at 12 Noon featuring a light buffet, and a visit with Kate. General admission tickets: $45. 1pm at Osher Marin JCC, 200 North San Pedro Rd. www.spectrumlgbtcenter.org/events NewsLink - Wet Tease Pool Party and Wet Tshirt Contest with emcees Sister Sara Femme Fatale and Sister Saviour Applause at Rio Nido Roadhouse - Celebrity Bartending Marathon and Country Dan's Lesbytarian Karaoke at McT's BullPen - Pat Wilder at Main St. Station. Her live show is a magnetic mix of peeling blues and rhythm & blues guitar licks that defy gender classification, accompanied by an organic vocal style that evokes worldly conviction. - Show me your Booty Underwear Contest and Pirate Dance Party at Buck's - Country Dan's Lesbytarian Karaoke at Northwood Golf Club Sunday: - Motorcycle Run. The run will take off from the parking lot at the old BofA building near the corner of Main Street & Mill in Guerneville. Make sure you fill your tank first! Route: Bank of America Parking lot east on River Road, which turns into Mark West Springs Road when we crossover Hwy 101 and takes us through some beautiful terrain and into Calistoga. From there we'll head over to Healdsburg and have some lunch (fish tacos, anyone?). We'll head back to Guerneville via Westside Road with its lovely vineyards, oak trees and then the river! - Liquid Church Pool Party, Top Ramen Wrestling & Tattoo Contest with emcees Sister Sara Femme Fatale and Sister Saviour Applause at Rio Nido Roadhouse - Pat Wilder at Main St. Station - Blues Jam at Trio Our preferred lodgings are the Woods, West Sonoma Inn, Creekside Inn, Mirabel Park Campground and Schoolhouse Canyon Campground. Also, the Birdcage's owner let RRWW VIPs stay there in the past. And Cabin de Menthe was donated as the prize for the wet t-shirt contest. russianriverwomensweekend.org 23 ∏ ∏ ∏ ∏ Your Intellectual Whore “An effervescently gay advice columnist” Disclaimer: Although the author of this syndicated column holds a doctorate in clinical psychology, the tongue-in-cheek advice given is for entertainment only and is not a substitute for therapy. Barbie responds to all emails…whether you deserve it or not. Send your questions to Uncle Barbie at: askunclebarbie@aol.com It's like mental masturbation. Hello Sue, In the forest, the squirrels loudly scold the appearance of the predatory wolf by chattering angrily in disapproval. The crows caw in protest to the presence of any bird of prey. You said that your co-worker is an antagonist. Antagonists serve a purpose, and they exist in the natural world, too. They locate and warn of potentially dangerous situations. Likewise, there are benefits to having antagonists in our community. They make us aware of problems. Within an efficient system, a helpful antagonist is necessary to keep things in check--that is, as long as the antagonist is a good enemy. A good enemy provides constructive criticism that can be advantageous by pointing out our faults and weaknesses. Better yet, they teach us about ourselves. A bad enemy, on the other hand, engages in destructive criticism (like name calling) that offers no useful feedback to the recipient. A heckling teenager who screams obscenities as he/she drives past you on the street is an example of a bad MFC37347 Although many of us, including myself, are irritated by people with toxic personalities, perhaps there is something we can learn from them. It is possible that some enemies could actually benefit us if they show us our mistakes or provide us with constructive criticism. Unfortunately, the rhetoric of most hate groups offer very little productive feedback. However, let me share with you an example of a time when I definitely benefited from the condemnation of a self-righteous critic. A well-known TV evangelist stated that what a homosexual really wants is acceptance by society. His brisk assessment of gay social needs may not apply to you; however, it struck a cord with me. I asked myself if I was really seeking acceptance from heterosexuals? After much contemplation, I realized that there may be some truth to what he was saying. I did, indeed, desire acceptance. However, more importantly, I had a much greater need for equality. It was then that I made a personal decision to emphasize equality more than societal acceptance in my life. The way I look at it, if I have equal rights, I am not really concerned with whether or not society likes me. (Thanks, Rev. Homophobe, for helping me become a better adjusted and happier homo.) Get my point? We can all learn from a good enemy. Your Critic, Barbie 1451 W Shaw Ave. Fresno, CA 93711 Ph: (559) 243-1809 Fax: (559) 243-1807 H E A D QU A R TE R S NOW FEATURING Gina Keller PsyD, LMFT Licensed Marriage Family Therapist Psychotherapy for all ages Alternative hair coloring, Cosmetics, Wigs Cynthia Stevens - proprietor/stylist 1236 N. Wishon Your Ad could be seen here for $10 a month. Call 559-486-3464 for details Fresno, CA 93728 559-498-8430 J. STANLEY TEIXEIRA ATTORNEY AT LAW 1233 W. SHAW AVENUE, SUITE 100 FRESNO, CALIFORNIA 93711 TELEPHONE (559) 225-2510 FACSIMILE (559) 225-2389 NewsLink ∏ Dear Uncle Barbie, Hi. How are you? Me? I am not doing that good. My co-worker hates me and is trying to make my life miserable. He is nothing but an antagonist. It seems that there is always some work-jerk at every job I have ever had. Why do these things always happen to me? Signed, Sue www.CommunityLinkFresno.com A GOOD ENEMY IS HARD TO FIND antagonist. There is nothing to be learned from such hateful feedback. 25 ∏ www.CommunityLinkFresno.com NewsLink ∏ 26 The Return of Dario Continued from the front page Dario's story begins in the beautiful desert community of Tucson, Arizona. By the age of 3, he was entertaining his extended family with vocal performances and creative dance numbers, displaying a talent well beyond his years. Armed with this exceptional talent, strong desire, and the encouragement of friends and family, Dario steadily placed 1st in local competitions and talent shows. His "big break" came at the "Search for Stardom Convention", where his dynamic stage presence and distinctive vocals caught the attention of two independent record companies. Realizing they had discovered a unique new artist, Dario was flown across country to audition for their labels. This experience is what motivated Dario to turn his dream of becoming a successful, established artist into reality. Dario has participated in top rated shows, such as, The WB's "Popstars 2", and the second season of Fox's wildly successful "American Idol". His growing reputation as an independent force in the entertainment community has been recognized by the media, including, an interview with Access Hollywood about his unconventional path to success and his impressions of the modern music industry. He has graced the covers of over 20 entertainment magazines, appeared on a variety of television programs, and attended numerous red carpet events including the Grammys and the American Music Awards. Dario's first single, "Be", was released in April 2004, and debuted at #1 on the Independent Sales Chart. His follow up single, "Lies", also shot up the Independent Sales Chart for 6 weeks, while remaining on the Dance Chart for 4 months. He has opened for established R&B artists KC & JoJo, Ashanti, and Destiny's Child, as well as headlining his own five month national tour promoting his album, "Dedicated". Despite his hectic schedule, giv- ing back to the community continues to be a high priority for Dario. He works with several foundations focused on the prevention and treatment of AIDS, the fight against breast cancer, and increasing the awareness of sickle cell anemia. Dario is also passionate about being a mentor to children and young adults in local communities. His goal is to help them realize that anything is possible and they have the power to make their dreams come true. The News Link was able to catch up with Dario between his very busy schedule. News Link: You seem to have fondness for Fresno why is this? Dario: I absolutely love Fresno! The people are so down to earth and so giving. Every time I come out they show and make you feel the love. They appreciate music and art and they let you know it. I cant imagine going on tour and not making a stop in Fresno. Currently, Dario is putting the finishing touches on his new album, "The Up Side of Down", with producer Arie Dixon. This highly anticipated new album is expected to be released April 2011, with national and international tours to follow. News Link: What was your inspiration for the new album? Dario: The title of the album "The Upside of Down" pretty much says it all. The inspiration for it came after a really bad time in my career where I lost everything and had to find the positive in the negative. I didn't want to make a sad depressing album so I found a way to make a fun dance pop record, while still getting all the bad stuff off my chest. I love the new sound and the direction we went with and I cant wait till it's released on May 10th. I especially cant wait to hear what you guys think of it once I hit the road! When asked in a recent interview what he feels is the secret to his success, Dario answered, "Hard work, the support of my friends and family, and of course, the loyalty of my amazing fans! But really, there is no secret. For me, success has always been the only option." News Link: Since performing at Fresno Rainbow Pride what has been your next biggest thrill, since Fresno had to be the biggest and best? (lol!) Dario: I have to admit I loved performing in Fresno, it is one of my top 3 all time favorite shows I've ever played! As far as biggest thrill, I am very fortunate to be doing what I do and I am so lucky to have the fans that I have and they definitely keep me on my toes. HOROSCOPES by Eric Biglione Aries (Mar 21 - Apr 19) Mars is in your sign makes you very decisive and decisive you will be with 3 planets. In your sign you feel rejuvenated. Take care of old projects and start new ones, you can handle it. Romance may be coming your way. Taurus (Apr 20 - May 20) Lay the ground work for decisions to be made in May. Your thinking is clear and precise and you attract attention for this. Finish up old nagging projects and get ready for a new cycle. Gemini (May 21 - June 20) Change of plans is the norm so be flexible. Happy time into May make for a happier you and this rubs off on others. In some ways you feel like a kid again. Cancer (June 21 - July 22) Feel like you are getting knocked around. Well you are. Stick to your plans but don't advertise them. This period can force you to be very creative. Leo (July 23 - Aug 22) Full steam ahead. Some of you have overcome big obstacles in your life and are moving forward with purpose. Your energy makes some react a little cantankerously. Just purr around them and they will come your way. Virgo (Aug 23 - Sep 22) You are probably feeling a little underappreciated now. Plant a garden or indulge yourself with a necessity. Simplify your life and others will follow suit liking your ideas. For me every interaction and experience with them is a thrill, and the fact that they still buy my records and go to my shows is an even bigger thrill. I am truly blessed and I know I have the best Libra (Sep 23 - Oct 22) Others are consuming a lot of your time and energy now. Stick to long term goals for some stability. It's a time of responsibility. Put off big decisions for a while. Scorpio (Oct 23 - Nov 21) Good time to review your health habits. You are dynamic and intuitive now as you proceed with goals. Could be interested with physic studies now. Sagittarius (Nov 22 - Dec 21) Very creative time with energy working for you. This all makes you very attractive and invited to more then one gathering. New people come into your life. Capricorn (Dec 22 - Jan 19) Talk about being prodded for change around the home you are doing it whether you like it or now. Your nerves are a little frayed from this. Do something relaxing read a book, take a short trip or watch a good movie to clear the mind. Aquarius (Jan 20 - Feb 18) You may feel caught between two friends. Speak up and stay out of it. Too many irons in the fire here. De-clutter. Pisces (Feb 19 - Mar 20) Neptune in your sign could make you a little unrealistic in love. Or fall for someone really different. Talk to someone here. Other things in your life are working out and coming out as planned. fans in the world! Keep connected with the latest news and events of this international pop sensation exclusively at www.darioonline.com. Family Pride Coalition PO Box 65327 Washington, DC 20035-5327 202-331-5015 familypride.org ∏ Freedom To Marry Coalition 116 West 23rd St, Suite 500 New York, NY 10011 212-851-8418 freedomtomarry.org Gender Public Advocacy Coalition 1743 Connecticut Ave NW, 4th Fl. Washington, DC 20009-1108 202-462-6610 gpac.org Human Rights Campaign 1640 Rhode Island Avenue NW Washington DC 20036-3278 800-777-4723 TTY: 202-216-1572 hrc.org Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network 90 Broad St, 2nd Floor New York, NY 10004 212-727-0135 glsen.org Immigration Equality 350 West 31st Street, Suite 505 New York, NY 10001 212-714-2904 immigrationequality.org Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation 5455 Wilshire Blvd, #1500 Los Angeles, CA 90036 323-933-2240 glaad.org Int'l Gay & Lesbian Human Rights Commission 80 Maiden Lane, Suite 1505 New York, NY 10038 212-268-8040 iglhrc.org Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund & Leadership Institute PO Box 96308 Washington, DC 20077-7529 202-VICTORY victoryfund.org Lambda Legal 120 Wall Street, Suite 1500 New York, NY 10005-3904 212-809-8585 lambdalegal.org Log Cabin Republicans 1901 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, #902 Washington, DC 20006 202-347-5306 logcabin.org National Center For Transgender Equality 1325 Massachusetts Av NW # 700 Washington, DC 20005 202-903-0112 nctequality.org National Coalition For Lesbian Rights 870 Market St San Francisco, CA 94102 415-392-6257 nclrights.org Servicemembers Legal Defense Network PO Box 65301 Washington DC 20035-5301 202-328-3244 sldn.org DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Community United Against Violence (San Francisco) 24 Hr. Hotline: (415) 333-HELP The L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center STOP Domestic Violence: 1-800-373-2227 National Gay & Lesbian Task Force 8704 Santa Monica Blvd #200 Los Angeles, CA 90069 310-855-7380 thetaskforce.org National Stonewall Democrats 1325 Massachusetts Av NW # 700 Washington, DC 20005 202-625-1382 stonewalldemocrats.org The Network / La Red (Boston) Ending abuse in lesbian, bisexual women's and TG communities 617-742-4911; TTY 617-227-4911 National Domestic Violence Hotline (not GLBT-specific) 800-799-7233; TTY 800-787-3224 www.CommunityLinkFresno.com Gay, Lesbian Bisexual & Transgender Resource - National, Sate, & Local ∏ Rape, Abuse, Incest, National Network 1-800-656-HOPE Trevor Helpline (GLBT youth sui cide prevention) 1-800-850-8078 Professional Men’s Mixer 1st & 3rd Fridays at 6pm CALIFORNIA RUAL www.safefresno.com LEGAL ASSISTANCE Proyecto Poderoso 1-800-242-2752 2115 Kern St., Suite 370, Fresno, CA 93721 611 E. Belmont Fresno, CA 93701 559-237-3420 professionalmensmixer@gmail.com http://www.facebook.com/gro up.php?gid=107149747915 Paris: 559-355-6163 Trans-e-motion meetings: third Saturdays 5pm Call Zoyer (559)285-0795, or Kelly (559) 307-9908 www.trans-e-motion.org IT'S A QUEER THANG Where we just don’t tolerate diversity... We celebrate it! KFCF 88.1FM 3rd Friday of the month at 5-6pm P.O. Box 4959, Fresno, CA 93744 (559) 266-LINK CLinkInc@aol.com www.communitylinkfresno.com Your Gay Hosts: Jeffery Robinson & Kirk P.O. Box 27382, Fresno, CA 93729-7382 (559) 434-6540 You are Welcome! 2:00 P.M. 2nd Sun Wesley United Methodist Church, 1343 E. Barstow, Fresno Imperial Dove Court GayCentralValley Community Center 1055 N Van Ness Ave. Suite C, Fresno, CA 93728 559-325-4GAY. WE DON’T BURN HERETICS WE WELCOME THEM! www.cvaas.org Social group for bears, cubs & fans Diversity Club at F.C.C. Meetings: Fridays 2-4pm SO-208 Recovery Club artemisrecoveryclub.com 1993 - 2010 Celebrating 18 Years of Pride & Service [559] 265-7117 www.ccafresno.org call 891-7725 P.O. Box 5561 Fresno CA 93755 United Student Pride @ C S U Fresno Meetings: Wednesdays 12-2pm @ Women’s Resource Center http://www.campingwomen.org The Fresno GLBTQ Youth Alliance 19 years of Outrageous Fun Every Friday Teenagers @ 6:30 Teens & Young adults @ 7:30 @ 1584 N. Van Ness 477-3773 or 486-3464 FIGHTING AIDS IN FRESNO COUNTY KIDS LIKE US 1584 N. Van Ness Ave. Fresno,CA 93728 Gay parenting group Community Link’s RAINBOW BOWLING Thursdays 7:15pm @ Cedar Lanes 3131 N Cedar communitylinkfresno.com Fresno Reel Pride Annual GLBT Film Festival Robin (559) 287-9670 (559) 268-1969 kidslikeus@yahoo.com diversity_club2006@yahoo.com ∏ love the outdoors… PROJECT: MALE ARTEMIS ~C For women who GoldenStateBears.org Join the Listserv at P.O. Box 4642, Fresno, Ca. 93744 905-6674 www.idcfresno.org ww I Camping Women csufresno.edu/StudentOrgs/LGBSA/ Hours: Wed. 12-6pm, Fri. 12-5pm, Sat. 12-6pm, & Sun. 9am-12pm. w w w.StrideWithPrideForKids.com (559) 285-2333 Central Valley Alliance of Atheists and Skeptics “You’ll just never know what they’ll say next!” You’ll have to tune in to find out! Community Link Date TBA Fraternal order raising funds for groups who need help NOW www.ReelPride.com http://groups.yahoo.com/group/project-male Serenity Fellowship (Gay AA) 407 E. Olive Ave. Fresno QVB The Central Valley Queer Volleyball Frinedly Outdoor fun Games are open to all Meet new people! No formalities! Weekly Thurs. Games. Season: March-Oct. Info at 486-3464 559-268-2780 NewsLink STRAIGHT ADVOCATES FOR EQUALITY Outreach Education Support 27 ∏ ∏ ∏ ∏ ∏